Admiral
The air is cool and fresh in the Woodhelm forests as the party rides through. For Kurt, Mithril, and Natalia, it has been a matter of weeks since they traveled through these forests from the port city of Cardonne. For Rhenner, it has been a much longer time, and not all the memories are pleasant.

The party is glad to be back on their horses. With Avaralynn's help it was simple to retrieve the horses from Deldon, though the priestess warned them that they would not always be able to rely on her for such favors. She told them she would be in solitude for some time as she delved into Boccob's Book of  abjuration , and that the process would take all her attention and magical ability. With luck, once the party finds the Book of  divination , she will be ready to put both of them to use.

For now, however, the party had elected to rejoin the Hulburg party to assist in their crucial mission. The Hooded Half-Orc has been in Eldgar for a week with a minimal party, and the Hulburg party has been tracking him through the Woodhelm forests. Asdyr suspects that the Hooded One's operations could be essential to the Voice's plans, and Lucius's message suggested that with help, they may be able to foil his plans for good. So they have arranged on a meeting place, on a road between two small elven villages, where the parties will reunite.

Still, at the forefront of everyone's mind is not the upcoming meeting, but the events of the last two hours, especially Shiny's departure and the information Natalia had found. In the midst of Asdyr's concern (and fury) over the security risk that Shiny posed to the operation, they had had no time to reflect or discuss it, instead opting to depart for their mission as quickly as possible. But now that they are back on the trail, the fastastical gnome's absence is deeply felt.


 Welcome. Everyone earns 500 Bonus XP for reaching this new chapter of the story.

You don't have to roleplay "Natalia tells everyone about the letter," which I'm handwaving over, but you can jump right into discussion like "I can't believe..." or whatever else you want along those lines. (No reason you have to talk about Shiny at all of course!)

The  tongues  spell on Natalia that Shiny cast is still in effect but not far from its end. Coffee can choose when it runs out. 
CoffeeIncluded
The air is cool and fresh, but it does nothing to alleviate the lead bar weighing down Natalia. Deldon is doing fine, and she's grateful to avaralynn and didn't realize how much she missed riding, or traveling through the forests under clear blue sky and broad-leafed trees, but she still feels lost and adrift. One hand drags Rust's reins closer to her blade, but the other leads Tinkerbell alone, almost obsessively petting the warpony's mane.

Her worries about Mithril and herself seem so small, almost trivial in the face of this horrifying revelation, only compounded by Shiny's sudden absence. According to rhenner, he just suddenly vanished, slipping into the city crowds and out of sight.

Silence, and then with a hoarse croak she tries again.  "Mith...Kurt, what...Rhenner, have you ever heard anything..."  But she falls silent again. Even with his spell (his last spell, and just like Miriam's last spell she can feel its help running out), she can't find the words.
Athedia
It felt odd riding Honey again, but Mithril was glad the dwarves had not eaten him.  She felt strangely at peace with herself for the first time in a long while.  Even with the looming threat of the Prisoner, even with the path Boccob had sent her on, she felt better.   "We all have secrets Natalia.  Sometimes you can't share them.  Sometimes you want to pretend they aren't real."   She couldn't offer much comfort to her, but Shiny had to have reasons.  He had been helpful to them, and if Kurt had taught her anything,no, if Mithril had taught herself anything, it was that people change.
CWater
Rhenner rides his new horse a bit awkwardly. He was never too fond of riding as a way to get from one place to another, but preferred to walk on his own too feet, or ride a wagon if it was necessary. And this place... it awakes many feelings in him, and Rhenner is not quite sure he likes that. He's not sure if he had ever been on this particular road before, the memories of this forest are distant, but he knows the look of these trees, the smells and collection of sounds. Surprising really, since if his life in the Church active service was already like another life, then these memories belonged to one even older than that. To a time he hadn't even thought about in ages, or so it felt. Curious that he would come here now, this new journey directed him to the strangest places, from across the world right back next to his childhood forest.

It's not like he had purposefully avoided this area either, but for a reason or another, he had never gotten around to come here again. Not even when he perhaps should have. The conversation of his companions, pulls his attention back to the present, and he half-elf shakes his head slightly. What reason was it to ponder about that, it's not like he was here to visit home now either.

 "Sorry, did you say something?",  he asks,  "Afraid I dozed off there for a moment." 
CoffeeIncluded
What had shiny said to her? That if you tell yourself that you're a hero enough times, you'll start to believe it? Had he been letting on more about himself than he realized? She knows about old shames, bubbling up like sludge that you want to carve out with a hot knife, but this..,

Rage bubbles in her too, turned inward as well as outward, but why?

Something cuts into her palms and Natalia looks down at clenched fists to see it's her fingernails.

 "I know that!"  she suddenly shouts without entirely knowing why. And then the words come out like a torrent.  "He hinted that himself! But I trusted him, we trusted him, I told him I trusted him, and he abandoned us! We need him, and he left us! And if this is true, that, that he..."  she clenches her fists tighter and her voice quavers as well.  "There's got to be a reason! And he's got to come back to explain! We trusted him, I trust...trusted him, and you!"  It comes out before she can stop herself, two of the three things on her mind bursting out in a tangle.  "I trusted you, and now it's like I don't even matter. Like my opinion isn't important at all, and why? Why are you passing over me like this? And why did Shiny, I don't even know where to start with Shiny! I don't even know what to feel about Shiny right now except how much this hurts, and how much I don't want this to be happening! I don't want any of this to be happening and I don't know what to do! What can we do?!" 

She hears what Rhenner asks, but only in a distant, detached sort of way.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 What had shiny said to her? That if you tell yourself that you're a hero enough times, you'll start to believe it? Had he been letting on more about himself than he realized? She knows about old shames, bubbling up like sludge that you want to carve out with a hot knife, but this..,

Rage bubbles in her too, turned inward as well as outward, but why?

Something cuts into her palms and Natalia looks down at clenched fists to see it's her fingernails.

 "I know that!"  she suddenly shouts without entirely knowing why. And then the words come out like a torrent.  "He hinted that himself! But I trusted him, we trusted him, I told him I trusted him, and he abandoned us! We need him, and he left us! And if this is true, that, that he..."  she clenches her fists tighter and her voice quavers as well.  "There's got to be a reason! And he's got to come back to explain! We trusted him, I trust...trusted him, and you!"  It comes out before she can stop herself, two of the three things on her mind bursting out in a tangle.  "I trusted you, and now it's like I don't even matter. Like my opinion isn't important at all, and why? Why are you passing over me like this? And why did Shiny, I don't even know where to start with Shiny! I don't even know what to feel about Shiny right now except how much this hurts, and how much I don't want this to be happening! I don't want any of this to be happening and I don't know what to do! What can we do?!" 

She hears what Rhenner asks, but only in a distant, detached sort of way. 
 

Mithril looked at Natalia, exasperated.   "And I wanted a short adventure before going back to help with the shop.  But we can't get what we want Natalia.  This world is a screwed up place and we have a chance to do something bigger with it.  We only have two options, die or fight."   And those aren't mutually exclusive either.   She dropped back to ride at the end of the train of horses, taking deep breathes to calm herself.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril looked at Natalia, exasperated.   "And I wanted a short adventure before going back to help with the shop.  But we can't get what we want Natalia.  This world is a screwed up place and we have a chance to do something bigger with it.  We only have two options, die or fight."   And those aren't mutually exclusive either.   She dropped back to ride at the end of the train of horses, taking deep breathes to calm herself. 
 

 "I know that!"  It bursts out of her again, but when she sees Mithril and everyone she stops and slumps over. Deep breaths, in an out, choke back the tears.  "I know that. And of course I'm going to fight! But I'm still upset. And afraid. About everything, and there are other words but I can't...get them out...right now. About Shiny, and about me, and about you. About what happened."  She looks down at her hands, thick and calloused even under gloves.

 "I want to recognize us when this is all over. Come out of this better, not broken. But...of course I'm going to fight. Going to fix."  Natalia pauses again.  "I...not sure...where I was going with this." 
Cavelcade
Kurt is silent in thought over what was revealed from that letter, a truly chilling revelation about the one he'd suspected least in the party. He's not even sure what he's feeling about it, masked by two warring voices in the back of his head arguing over whether such a thing is even possible or not - the consequences of it being true are too much for him right now, much too large.  "What if it meant killing one of us? Or Shiny."  An uncharacteristically dour prediction from the stalwart dwarf, before he retreats back into himself.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt is silent in thought over what was revealed from that letter, a truly chilling revelation about the one he'd suspected least in the party. He's not even sure what he's feeling about it, masked by two warring voices in the back of his head arguing over whether such a thing is even possible or not - the consequences of it being true are too much for him right now, much too large.  "What if it meant killing one of us? Or Shiny."  An uncharacteristically dour prediction from the stalwart dwarf, before he retreats back into himself. 
 

 "No!"  No, that can't happen. Not to Shiny, not to Mithril despite what she said, not any of them.  "There, there has to...reason...Or...Rhenner, what you know?..."  She looks up with barely-restrained helplessness and fear despite struggling regardless before retreating back into herself as well.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "No!"  No, that can't happen. Not to Shiny, not to Mithril despite what she said, not any of them.  "There, there has to...reason...Or...Rhenner, what you know?..."  She looks up with barely-restrained helplessness and despite struggling regardless before retreating back into herself as well. 
 

Rhenner shakes his head.  "I know no more than you do, he said nothing else than to pass on his goodbyes. I'm sorry, I had no idea he was going to run."

 Or that he might have had reason to.   Rhenner doesn't know what to think of the letter and its claims. It was outrageous and sounded inconceivable; he'd always thought the Immortals were all completely insane, unable to act like normal people. Though admittedly, Shiny had not always seemed to be entirely sane either.. The uncertainty of what to think is written clearly on the cleric's face.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt is silent in thought over what was revealed from that letter, a truly chilling revelation about the one he'd suspected least in the party. He's not even sure what he's feeling about it, masked by two warring voices in the back of his head arguing over whether such a thing is even possible or not - the consequences of it being true are too much for him right now, much too large.  "What if it meant killing one of us? Or Shiny."  An uncharacteristically dour prediction from the stalwart dwarf, before he retreats back into himself. 
 

 "If it must be done, then it must be done.  You were willing to carry out that duty before, but I may be the only one able to oppose Shiny if it comes to that." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner shakes his head.  "I know no more than you do, he said nothing else than to pass on his goodbyes. I'm sorry, I had no idea he was going to run."

 Or that he might have had reason to.   Rhenner doesn't know what to think of the letter and its claims. It was outrageous and sounded inconceivable; he'd always thought the Immortals were all completely insane, unable to act like normal people. Though admittedly, Shiny had not always seemed to be entirely sane either.. The uncertainty of what to think is written clearly on the cleric's face. 
 

 "..."  With a grimace and a clenched fist, Natalia can't do anything but squeeze her eyes shut and look away.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "If it must be done, then it must be done.  You were willing to carry out that duty before, but I may be the only one able to oppose Shiny if it comes to that."  
 

 "No!"  she spits out.  "You...you cant, it won't..."  Natalia frantically shakes her head, plays her spindly fingers in the air like she's picking through for the words.  "You say must be done, but...won't be done. Can't...think that, like that, can't think worst always. Won't happen. There reason. Shiny said...always wished he hero, told himself hero. So...there reason."  She grips the reins of Tinkerbell tighter.  "And...when we see again, can't...can't see him thinking no saving. Need...try, talk, find reasons first." 

As Natalia speaks, it slowly dawns on her that his spell is gone, the magic has finally run its course. She bites her lip and almost suppresses a choked hiccuping noise.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "..."  With a grimace and a clenched fist, Natalia can't do anything but squeeze her eyes shut and look away.



 "No!"  she spits out.  "You...you cant, it won't..."  Natalia frantically shakes her head, plays her spindly fingers in the air like she's picking through for the words.  "You say must be done, but...won't be done. Can't...think that, like that, can't think worst always. Won't happen. There reason. Shiny said...always wished he hero, told himself hero. So...there reason."  She grips the reins of Tinkerbell tighter.  "And...when we see again, can't...can't see him thinking no saving. Need...try, talk, find reasons first." 

As Natalia speaks, it slowly dawns on her that his spell is gone, the magic has finally run its course. She bites her lip and almost suppresses a choked hiccuping noise. 
 

 "I said, if.  Sometimes you can't save people from themselves.  Sometimes the heroic thing is to realize that you are a danger." 
 
 Spoiler 
Do we get fresh spells btw?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I said, if.  Sometimes you can't save people from themselves.  Sometimes the heroic thing is to realize that you are a danger." 
 
 Spoiler 
Do we get fresh spells btw?
 
 
 

Natalia relaxes, but only somewhat.  "Maybe, but not first choice. Won't stop trying. Won't give up...on him, or...you." 
 
 Spoiler 
do we? And do we have a chance to get stuff?
 
CoffeeIncluded
They ride in silence for some time, Natalia and presumably everyone else left to stew in their thoughts. They aren't pleasant. What shiny did and may have done, what Mithril did, what she did...she can't deny it anymore. Mithril has changed. She doesn't know where the old Mithril's gone or whether she can even be found again. Much less Natalia herself. Kurt's the only constant left (maybe Rhenner, but she only known him a few days though in some ways it feels like years). Kurt, steady, true, the best of them. She rides up to the dwarf and asks,  "Kurt, can...we talk?" 
Admiral
Just as Natalia is about to speak to Kurt, a low rumble fills the air, something distant and unfamiliar.

 
 Spoiler 

Not to interrupt 🙂

Spot and Listen checks everyone.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Adrenaline spikes through Natalia's mind, and she whips around in the direction of the rumbling, her blades out before she can really think about it.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls and maneuvers 
spot: take 10 for 29 (wow).
Listen:  (d20+14)[ 28 ] 

Maneuvers: cloak of deception
Distracting sparks
Wolf fang strike
Sudden leap if I can Sudden leap off the horse the same as off the ground and island of blades if I can't.

EDIT: actually, does my horse count as an ally for flanking with island of blades?

Stance: I only have assassins stance so that one. 😛
 
Cavelcade
Kurt turns to face her, not registering the low rumble as he looks at her from furrowed brows, chewing over his own thoughts in his usual stolid fashion, most of his attention seems to still be on that.

 "What is it, Natalia?"  He doesn't react to her drawing her blades, easy in his saddle still.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt turns to face her, not registering the low rumble as he looks at her from furrowed brows, chewing over his own thoughts in his usual stolid fashion, most of his attention seems to still be on that.

 "What is it, Natalia?"  He doesn't react to her drawing her blades, easy in his saddle still. 
 

Natalia doesn't stay anything, instead staring intently in the direction of the rumbling. Her stance hardens slightly along with her gaze, and she seems ready to react at a moment's notice--aggressively if necessary, given the way she holds her blades.
Admiral
Natalia is the first to realize the source of the rumbling comes from the air around them, which seems to be pulsating with the beat of distant wings. As she scans the skies behind them she sees it- a great reptilian beast sweeping along a long arc above the trees. She can see its eyes have already locked on to the party, and that it has started its descent.

 
 Spoiler 

 

Back to combat with a bang!

Due to good Spot and Listen checks, you get one pre-init round of actions, then we'll roll for initiative. Everyone recognizes that it is a red dragon and knows that it breathes fire (basically what a non-D+D player could figure out!), and anyone trained in it can make a Knowledge (Arcana) check.

Due to its a Frightful Presence everyone make a Will save, or you'll be shaken (-2 to most rolls) for  (4d6)[ 12 ]  rounds (I'll let you know if it passes the DC, I'm keeping meta info close to the vest for the moment, pending Knowledge checks).

Dragon is currently 700 feet away. You are on a 25 foot wide dirt road with moderately dense trees on each side. Tomorrow will post the map but it's simple.
 
Cavelcade
Kurt follows Natalia's gaze to find the source of the sudden thrumming in his eardrums, his mouth convulsively tightening as he looks around quickly for cover. Unfortunately, the only cover nearby seems to be flammable...but that might still be better than none at all. He quickly turns his horse around and grabs up his bow, leading them towards the side of the woods.
 
 Spoiler 

 (1d20+3)[ 10 ]  Will save.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia freezes in place, staring up at the...the...the dragon. The ringing in her ears drowns out the roaring of the beast, and anyone looking at her can see her mouth puled back in a grimace and her eyes wide open in terror.

 "RUN!!!!!"  she screams, racing for the woods and taking cover behind any outcroppings of rocks.

 
 Spoiler 
Well then. This should be good!

Will save:  (d20+5)[ 15 ] 

Natalia also casts Cat's Grace on herself with the Arcanist Gloves
 
Athedia
Mithril stared in awe at the dragon, only snapping out of it at the sound of Natalia's voice.  She pulled at Honey's reigns, trying to get the horse into the trees where the dragon would not see it.

 
 Spoiler 
Ride Check:  (1d20+4)[ 24 ] 
 
CWater
Rhenner also looks up alerted by the shout and for a moment he is stunned, having difficulty in believing in his own eyes. What in the... A dragon in Woodhelm! And a fire breathing one...

Without a second thought, he grabs the fireball necklace and stuffs it in his bag of holding. Then he directs his horse after the others to find cover in the forest.

 
 Spoiler: Skill 
Ride if needed:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "WOODS! NOW! Spells together, then scatter!"  Natalia screams as she races into the woods on her horse, then dives off and takes cover in the trees.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Natalia hides in the woods, then hops off her horse. Should she make a hide check now?

Also, are we still in our pre-initative actions?
 
CWater
Directing a nervous animal is tricky, Rhenner notices, especially when it has been so long he hardly remembers how to properly sit in a saddle. When they get to the forest the half-elf quickly slides, half falls, down to the ground; lucky for him the landing is good.  "Best you run now",  he says, presumably to the horse,  "There's a big scary dragon, shoo!" 

The cleric retrieves a holy script from his pocket.  "...and whether the journey takes you towards or away from the place you started from, it does not matter, as your true home is the road...",  he recites from it, activating a spell.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Recitation then. It's a buff spell, but I'm not sure I remember the specifics correctly, so I'll check once I get home.
 
Cavelcade
Kurt pauses, seeing the trouble the horses have with the deep foliage and makes a snap judgement, leaping from his horse and pulling it in under the dense treecover, then giving it a quick push in the opposite direction - no need to get a horse involved where it can do no good. Only then does he notice the tremor in his own hand, pausing to look at it curiously as the feeling of nervousness suffuses his body.  "So this is what seeing a dragon is like..." 
CoffeeIncluded
As Natalia completes her spell and brings her hand back down, she uses it to push herself off Rust and roll to the ground. She springs to her feet, slapping the horse's flank to send It deeper into the woods where it won't be eaten. Kurt's comment, audible over Rhenner's chant, makes her turn around. Her whole body is shaking too.  "Should be scared!"  she shouts, frantic even as she reaches for her potions.  "Long as journey...not end in dragon belly!" 
Athedia
Mithril barely managed to get off of Honey without falling on her face.  Like the others she sent the horse deeper into the woods, hoping the dragon would not follow them.

 
 Spoiler 
With the time left she will cast Fly (Mass) on everyone within range and then Haste
 
Admiral
As the party jumps off their horses and sends them into the forest, the dragon starts its descent.

 
 Spoiler 

Initiative:

Natalia:  (1d20+10)[ 13 ] 
Rhenner:  (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
Mithril:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Kurt:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Enemy:  (1d20)[ 5 ] 

Everyone but Kurt goes, then the dragon.

I think everyone got off their horse and sent them away? I am unclear on how deep everyone went into the forest; for simplicity please place yourself at some point within 20 feet of the road. It is up to you whether you want to spread out or not, but if you do you might miss Haste/Fly 🙂
 
Athedia
Mithril looked around to make sure the others were within range as she began the short chant to allow them to fly.  She felt it take effect as she became noticeably lighter on her feet.   "You all can fly now. I have one more spell but after that we should all scatter.  Be careful, this dragon can see without sight, it has the ability to sense our location if we get to close." 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia lets out a low horrified moan as the dragon kicks into descent towards them. Even though Mithril's spell lets her kick into the air, it's still not fast enough.  "Even me? Nothing sees me, not xorns, not spiders. Maybe...not dragons either? Can you...make invisible?" 

She searches through her bag as she speaks, eventually coming up with a bark skin potion that she quaffs in less than two seconds. Natalia then offers her haversack to her friends--anyone looking in can see several protection from evil potions lying at the top.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Wherever the road takes you, do not face it with fear,"  Rhenner says as he lays his hand on Natalia's shoulder. As he casts the spell Natalia feels the churning tides of fear quell and calm--still there, under the surface, but under control.

 "Although in this case fear might be the wiser response,"  Rhenner mutters after his spell.  "Kurt! Stay close; I've got something for you too." 
 
 Spoiler: Note 
CWater is sick (get better, CWater!) and gave me permission to go for Rhenner--he cast Remove Fear on Natalia. If CWater's still sick and still gives me permission then his next two rounds will probably be bull's strength on Kurt and then Mass Lesser Vigor with the +4 to reflex saves healing kicker (or the reverse if the dragon is closer) on as many people as possible (I thought about doing Mass Lesser Vigor first but then I saw the healing kicker thing, which is great against dragons). Is this okay? CWater, is this okay?
 
Admiral
The dragon sweeps towards the party, descending as it does.

 
 Spoiler 

Flying "run" action; it is now 200 feet away and 100 feet above you.

Party's turn. Next move will be faster 😉
 
Cavelcade
Kurt breathes heavily, eyes fixed on the dragon speeding towards them, his hands shifting back and forth on his bow as it comes in close, drawing and quickly shooting as it does - then drawing his blade and licking his lips.  "Ready to charge..." 
 
 Spoiler 

 (1d20+13)[ 22 ]  Attack
 (1d20+13)[ 32 ]  Crit

 (1d8+5)[ 7 ]  Attack
 (1d8+5)[ 7 ]  Crit
 (1d8+5)[ 13 ]  Crit
 
Admiral
Kurt fires a skillful shot, but the arrow slows as it arcs upward before bouncing off the dragon's thick hide.
CoffeeIncluded
 "It coming,"  Natalia groans as she moves back and chugs a potion to ward her against evil. The pack is still open for anyone else who wants it. The fear is still there, but now she's riding it instead of letting it control her.  "Thanks, Rhenner!" 
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Natalia drinks a protection from evil potion. I'll decide her movement once I can see her character sheet--I'm getting on the bus so it'll be a few minutes. However, she's not moving more than 20 feet away from anyone so she in range in case Of area spells and for mass fly. Zhell probably be floating in the air a bit too.
 


EDIT: Natalia flies backwards to Q15 and also floats about 5 feet in the air, still under cover of the trees and rocks, and still within range of Rhenner and Mithril, should they decide to cast any area of effect spells. She also draws her blades if she hasn't done so already.
CWater
The third spell Rhenner casts today is directed at Kurt. The effect is quite straightforward, it gives strength to the muscles, and allows one to hit harder and with more precision.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Bull's Strength on Kurt.
 
Athedia
Mithril focused and cast one last spell to give everyone extra speed in this fight before copying Natalia and backed away from the group and into the air.

 
 Spoiler 
HASTIFIED!!
 
Admiral
The dragon swoops towards the party, closing nearly all the distance. As he approaches, he opens his mouth and unleashes a terrifying cone of fire that washes over Mithril, Kurt and Rhenner.

 
 Spoiler 

So far, a win for Natalia's Darkstalker since she's still in the trees and he hasn't spotted her.

Breath Weapon for Kurt, Mithril, Rhenner:  (8d10)[ 53 ]  damage, Reflex DC 24 for half.

Dragon's position is on map and you can attack after.

ETA: (Someone may want to heal Mithril though if she fails her save 😦)

If Mithril misses the save and falls unconscious, Rhenner can catch her midair with a Reflex DC 20. Otherwise she'll end up on the ground.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The dragon swoops towards the party, closing nearly all the distance. As he approaches, he opens his mouth and unleashes a terrifying cone of fire that washes over Mithril, Kurt and Rhenner.

 
 Spoiler 

So far, a win for Natalia's Darkstalker since she's still in the trees and he hasn't spotted her.

Breath Weapon for Kurt, Mithril, Rhenner: [roll0] damage, Reflex DC 24 for half.

Dragon's position is on map and you can attack after.

ETA: (Someone may want to heal Mithril though if she fails her save 😦)

If Mithril misses the save and falls unconscious, Rhenner can catch her midair with a Reflex DC 20. Otherwise she'll end up on the ground.
 
 
 

  Mithril tried to fly out of the brunt of the dragons fire but froze in panic.  The last thing she was aware of before thankfully passing out, was the boiling sounds of her own skin
Cavelcade
Kurt goes to one knee as the air is sucked from his lungs and his skin blisters, the dragon's breath overwhelming his strength for a moment before he pushes himself back up to see the effects, Mithril slumping towards the scorched earth, smoking as she falls, only to be caught by the cleric before crashing down.

Standing, his magical now intact he goes over to stand protectively over her, glancing at Rhennar as he takes another shot.

 "Medic, this wizard needs help now!" 
 
 Spoiler 

I can't remember how haste works and I'm on my phone, I realise I probably should have had two attacks at full bonus last round but that is only for full round actions?

Wrt to move Rhennar's initiative to after mine.

[Roll]1d20+13 [/roll]
[Roll]1d20+13 [/roll]

[Roll]1d8+6 [/roll]
[Roll]1d8+6 [/roll]
[Roll]1d8+6 [/roll]
 
CWater
When the fire engulfs them Rhenner would probably throw a sarcastic comment, if he wasn't currently going through the somewhat unpleasant sensation of being burned alive. Some minor speculative part of him, that just doesn't know how to shut up whatever the situation, does wonder whether the fact that it is dragonfire makes any difference to the experience, but the rest of him is too busy hurting as the heat makes its way through the layers of skin. Oddly, the pain is dull from where the damage is heaviest.

The blaze lasts only for seconds, even if it felt longer, and by some curious miracle Rhenner finds himself to still be alive, though a bit dizzy in the head. But he can hear Kurt shout and sees the falling figure.  "Mithril!"  He floats towards her by reflex, faster than he would even have thought (must be the spell) and catches the badly burnt wizard before she hits the ground.

 "That's it!! We'll get out of here now!! Get close to me!"  He flies back towards Kurt, motioning Natalia to join them.

 
 Spoiler 
Yup, casting Teleport the moment everyone are in his reach.
 
CoffeeIncluded
When the dragon opens its mouth Natalia hurls herself behind the nearest rock and takes cover. But as the flames shoot from its gaping maw and roll behind her and make the stone uncomfortably warm, Natalia realizes that she's not only not engulfed--she isn't touched. The dragon doesn't notice her, she realizes. Of course, she stops thinking about this very quickly when she hears the screams of her friends, and smells their flesh char. The dragon didn't notice her, but it noticed them.

The flames abate, and Natalia looks up just in time to see Rhenner and Kurt writhing in agony, and Mithril--a charred shape that by process of elimination can only be Mithril--careening out of the sky.

 "MITHRIL!!!"  Natalia screams, shooting towards them as fast as she can, her face ashen and then green as she sees her friends and oh Gond is so much worse up close. Kurt is blisters, his skin bubbling and scorched and Rhenner...his is waxen, dripping like a molten candle. It's wrong, so wrong to see her friends like that and oh Gond Mithril she's scorched charred black  she can't even recognize her face at first look. 

Natalia lets out a low horrible cry she can't fit a potion in there. With sobbing apologies she takes out a blessed bandage and tries to place it on Mithril but there's so much and her friends are so hurt he's like melted wax.  "Can..fix her? fix Kurt, fix self?!"  she begs as she holds them all, or tries to as much as she can without making their own skin peel like wet leaves. when Rhenner says it's time to leave all Natalia can do is hold on, and hope Rhenner can still cast.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Natalia flies down as fast as she can for us to teleport out, and puts a blessed bandage on Mithril to stabilize her. Greetings from my new phone!

Was this ok to post? I hope I didn't take too many liberties.
 
Admiral
At the exact moment that both Natalia and Kurt grab a hold of him, Rhenner closes his eyes and casts his spell, and not a moment too soon. The dragon lunges, and the party vanishes at the very instant that the beast's claws close close around them. Before they know it, the dragon is gone, and they are left floating in the air with their wounds.

The party's burns, especially Mithril's, are so severe that they demand immediate attention. But those who look around notice that their new surroundings have been replaced with an odd one. Though the grass clearing below is suggestive of the forest, they are surrounded by a sturdy fence of wood and rock, about 30 feet tall and a few hundred yards in diameter, with the inside lined by a number of simple buildings and constructions. Rhenner finds the sight odd, as in the intense pressure of the moment he cannot even remember  where  he meant to teleport to.
Cavelcade
Kurt breathes heavily,  his eyes focused on the spot the dragon's open maw had been filling his vision completely, his white knuckle grip on the hilt not relaxing as they float in midair, for once glad to have avoided a fight.

Suddenly the full pain of his wounds demands his immediate attention, crashing over his curiosity about the strange location, a strangled cry pushing past his blistered lips as he goes to one knee in midair.
CWater
The new surroundings don't even register to Rhenner, as he is more concerned over the charred almost-corpse in his arms. As soon as the teleportation spell is safely finished, he begins chanting a healing spells. First one to grant all of them fast regeneration, then a few fast affecting spells to boost the recovery.  "Regeneration, should lessen, or even altogether prevent scarring",  he mutters to no one in particular.

 
 Spoiler 
Mass Lesser Vigor, all recover 26 HP in 20 rounds (2 minutes). (This also affects Natalia, though it has no visible effect on her.)
Then converts Calm Emotions, Remove Paralysis and Lesser Restoration to healing
Mithril:  (2d8+14)[ 22 ] 
himself:  (2d8+14)[ 25 ] 
and Kurt:  (2d8+14)[ 22 ] 
 


The curative healing feels warm, though it also invokes some momentary pain, as the most badly burnt areas heal enough to regain the ability to hurt, and it's just then that the cleric realizes how bad the damage was on himself as well.
CoffeeIncluded
As the dragon swoops down Natalia, upright and unburnt, stands before the dragon--terrified, horrified of her friends' injuries, but still putting herself between them and the beast, one hand guarding and the other gripping a sword pointed at it.

Once they land Natalia dimly notices their surroundings--a town? A fort? Is that forest beneath them?--and a part of her is focused on them for danger like always, nearly all of her is screaming at her friends' states, their horrid burns, Kurt's strangled cries, Rhenner's hiss of pain, Mithril's....everything.

 
 Spoiler: athedia 
could Natalia use Mithril's belt of healing?
 


She's dumbstruck, a horrified look in her eyes, too distraught to even form words beyond a croak, or a pleading,  "Can you? ...heal all?"  to Rhenner's muttered comment. But otherwise she's practically an automaton, and unless something dangerous registers to Natalia she frantically races around Rhenner, pressing skins of cold water in his hands and pouring it on the burns, offering potions, and trying not to think about how her friends look like so much charred meat that rapidly heals (at least to a certain extent) under Rhenner's skilled hands. Though it still makes her weak with relief.
Athedia
Mithril woke up to the cool feel of her skin rebuilding itself.  The process was slow but still working.  As she looked around at her panicking friends she tried to piece together everything that had happened.  The teleport, riding horses, dragon, Honey?  No she had sent the horse fleeing.  Hopefully the dragon left her alone.  The dragon. Yes.

She looked around her, avoiding the sight of her own badly charred body.   "Where ARE we?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril woke up to the cool feel of her skin rebuilding itself.  The process was slow but still working.  As she looked around at her panicking friends she tried to piece together everything that had happened.  The teleport, riding horses, dragon, Honey?  No she had sent the horse fleeing.  Hopefully the dragon left her alone.  The dragon. Yes.

She looked around her, avoiding the sight of her own badly charred body.   "Where ARE we?"  
 

 "You should keep still and not exert yourself in for the next couple of minutes at least",  Rhenner says sternly, finding his voice,  "You suffered severe third and second degree burns, and while the immediate healing has taken care of the worst, the regeneration is slower and disrupting it could result in longterm ailments or scarring."  When he notices that Mithril will stay afloat on her own, he lets go of her and begins examining the regrowth of her skin. He only diverts his attention from this to perform a similar check up on Kurt.  "The damage on you is not as bad, even though you were closer to the dragon. Dwarves are tough, it is quite amazing." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 She's dumbstruck, a horrified look in her eyes, too distraught to even form words beyond a croak, or a pleading,  "Can you? ...heal all?"  to Rhenner's muttered comment. But otherwise she's practically an automaton, and unless something dangerous registers to Natalia she frantically races around Rhenner, pressing skins of cold water in his hands and pouring it on the burns, offering potions, and trying not to think about how her friends look like so much charred meat that rapidly heals (at least to a certain extent) under Rhenner's skilled hands. Though it still makes her weak with relief. 
 

 "Stay calm, if you want to help",  the medic says throwing a quick glance in the fretting girl's direction,  "You weren't hit at all? That's good. Now, press this to the wounds",  he gives her type of bandage from his bag.  "Don't bind it though, I'll need to see how well the spell heals, it should be done in a couple of minutes." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril woke up to the cool feel of her skin rebuilding itself.  The process was slow but still working.  As she looked around at her panicking friends she tried to piece together everything that had happened.  The teleport, riding horses, dragon, Honey?  No she had sent the horse fleeing.  Hopefully the dragon left her alone.  The dragon. Yes.

She looked around her, avoiding the sight of her own badly charred body.   "Where ARE we?"  
 

Natalia begins to cut away Mithril's clothes, but stops when she can't pull them away from her body. She reaches down to her belt to heal her, but stops when she sees the metal edges melted and fused to her flesh. So when Rhenner's spell makes the black char crumble away, and scorched skin becomes a still-damages but much better-looking pink, and Mithril wakes up, and Kurt's blisters subside and Rhenner's burns heal, Natalia lets out a choked sob in relief.


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "You should keep still and not exert yourself in for the next couple of minutes at least",  Rhenner says sternly, finding his voice,  "You suffered severe third and second degree burns, and while the immediate healing has taken care of the worst, the regeneration is slower and disrupting it could result in longterm ailments or scarring."  When he notices that Mithril will stay afloat on her own, he lets go of her and begins examining the regrowth of her skin. He only diverts his attention from this to perform a similar check up on Kurt.  "The damage on you is not as bad, even though you were closer to the dragon. Dwarves are tough, it is quite amazing." 
 "Stay calm, if you want to help",  the medic says throwing a quick glance in the fretting girl's direction,  "You weren't hit at all? That's good. Now, press this to the wounds",  he gives her type of bandage from his bag.  "Don't bind it though, I'll need to see how well the spell heals, it should be done in a couple of minutes."  
 

The rogue swallows roughly at Rhenner's diagnosis, but nods and gets to work. Seeing her friends heal helps the panic subside, and she's even able to croak out,  "Where we?"  But she wraps loose bandages around her friends' burns, using all the water in her waterskin if Rhenner says they need to be damp, and if Mithril so much as twitches a finger until she's healed Natalia prevents her.

 "Kurt tough, tough and strong,"  she says, even though the look she gives Kurt demonstrates all her worry and empathy and feeling.  "But Rhenner, what...you?" 
 
 Spoiler: Everyone 
Sorry I haven't posted. I only just got back to the hotel and GitP is glitching for some reasoon. POsting then sleeping. Goodnight!
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 The rogue swallows roughly at Rhenner's diagnosis, but nods and gets to work. Seeing her friends heal helps the panic subside, and she's even able to croak out,  "Where we?"  But she wraps loose bandages around her friends' burns, using all the water in her waterskin if Rhenner says they need to be damp, and if Mithril so much as twitches a finger until she's healed Natalia prevents her.

 "Kurt tough, tough and strong,"  she says, even though the look she gives Kurt demonstrates all her worry and empathy and feeling.  "But Rhenner, what...you?" 
 
 Spoiler: Everyone 
Sorry I haven't posted. I only just got back to the hotel and GitP is glitching for some reasoon. POsting then sleeping. Goodnight!
 
 
 

 "I wasn't burnt quite as bad as Mithril",  Rhenner replies.   Still not somethign I'd like to relive.  

The half-elf looks slightly confused when he finally glances around to see their new surroundings.  "I... don't really know. Where we are. I didn't think much about it, I had to cast so fast. Just to get us somewhere safe, and familiar so there wouldn't be risk of mishaps. ...But I don't think I recognise this place. Hmm. Maybe the spell didn't work quite as it should have? I've heard that can happen, and it was only the second time I cast it after all."  He frowns.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 [COLOR="#4169E1"]
The half-elf looks slightly confused when he finally glances around to see their new surroundings.  "I... don't really know. Where we are. I didn't think much about it, I had to cast so fast. Just to get us somewhere safe, and familiar so there wouldn't be risk of mishaps. ...But I don't think I recognise this place. Hmm. Maybe the spell didn't work quite as it should have? I've heard that can happen, and it was only the second time I cast it after all."  He frowns. 
 

As the wounds healed Mithril let herself float toward the ground, touching her belt to heal her burns some more.   "I promise I haven't angered another group of Astral plane inhabitants.  But the flying will end soon.  It has protections but the ground will be safer.  And we might not be safe yet." 
 
 Spoiler: belt 
 (2d6)[ 10 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I wasn't burnt quite as bad as Mithril",  Rhenner replies.   Still not somethign I'd like to relive.   
 

Natalia's brows furrow, stuck between relief and concern.  "True, but still hurt. If...fight again, let...me. Little red between back, but otherwise I fine." 

 The half-elf looks slightly confused when he finally glances around to see their new surroundings.  "I... don't really know. Where we are. I didn't think much about it, I had to cast so fast. Just to get us somewhere safe, and familiar so there wouldn't be risk of mishaps. ...But I don't think I recognise this place. Hmm. Maybe the spell didn't work quite as it should have? I've heard that can happen, and it was only the second time I cast it after all."  He frowns. 

 "Wait, this not Woodhelm?"  She thought Rhenner had teleported them to his old home. She didn't even know that you could get teleported somewhere else----did someone or something shunt them off again?


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 As the wounds healed Mithril let herself float toward the ground, touching her belt to heal her burns some more.   "I promise I haven't angered another group of Astral plane inhabitants.  But the flying will end soon.  It has protections but the ground will be safer.  And we might not be safe yet." 
 
 Spoiler: belt 
[roll0]
 
 
 

 "No blastpowder bombs in bag space from me either. But if fight, behind me." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 As the wounds healed Mithril let herself float toward the ground, touching her belt to heal her burns some more.   "I promise I haven't angered another group of Astral plane inhabitants.  But the flying will end soon.  It has protections but the ground will be safer.  And we might not be safe yet." 
 
 Spoiler: belt 
[roll0]
 
 
 

 "But if we land, the wall will surround us from all sides. And as you said, we have no knowledge of how safe this place is." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Wait, this not Woodhelm?"  She thought Rhenner had teleported them to his old home. She didn't even know that you could get teleported somewhere else----did someone or something shunt them off again? 
 

 "We could well still be in Woodhelm",  Rhenner says, eyeing the ground below,  "It is a large forest, I haven't been everywhere."  He looks up.  "I wonder what that wall  is  for? I can't say I like it's presence, or what it suggests."  Speaking of danger...  "Once we find a secure place, we should send a message that there is a red dragon flying around in Woodhelm. It could be a danger to the local towns."  It felt somehow bizarre to state the fact outloud.  "Assuming we can make it sound believable in the first place... I've never even heard of a red dragon to be seen in Woodhelm."  The memory of the ¨formidable creature sent a chill down his spine.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "But if we land, the wall will surround us from all sides. And as you said, we have no knowledge of how safe this place is."  
 

 "We can land now and on our own terms.  Or we can fall out of the sky at any second."  Mithril looked around.  "That being said, the walls are already around us." 

  "We could well still be in Woodhelm",  Rhenner says, eyeing the ground below,  "It is a large forest, I haven't been everywhere."  He looks up.  "I wonder what that wall  is  for? I can't say I like it's presence, or what it suggests."  Speaking of danger...  "Once we find a secure place, we should send a message that there is a red dragon flying around in Woodhelm. It could be a danger to the local towns."  It felt somehow bizarre to state the fact outloud.  "Assuming we can make it sound believable in the first place... I've never even heard of a red dragon to be seen in Woodhelm."  The memory of the ¨formidable creature sent a chill down his spine. 

 "If the dragon is local, this might be a defense against it."   Mithril avoided looking at the rest of the group, not wanting to see their charred skin.  As it was her normal clothing was more scorch than covering, making her wish she had prepared her patching spell.
Cavelcade
Kurt breathes softly as he starts drifting down, not waiting for the others to decide on what they want to do, the unnerving sight of all that ground stretching out beneath him is all the convincing he needs with that dragon flying around somewhere.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "We can land now and on our own terms.  Or we can fall out of the sky at any second."  Mithril looked around.  "That being said, the walls are already around us."  
 

Rhenner looks surprised.  "I thought it would last for some time? You weren't unconsciuous for long, just twenty thirty seconds at most. But the spell is yours, you know best how it works." 

  "If the dragon is local, this might be a defense against it."   Mithril avoided looking at the rest of the group, not wanting to see their charred skin.  As it was her normal clothing was more scorch than covering, making her wish she had prepared her patching spell. 

 "Against a flying fire breathing dragon?",  his expression is sceptical.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner looks surprised.  "I thought it would last for some time? You weren't unconsciuous for long, just twenty thirty seconds at most. But the spell is yours, you know best how it works." 
 "Against a flying fire breathing dragon?",  his expression is sceptical. 
 

 "That little time?"   Mithril looked up startled.   "I... you were fast." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "That little time?"   Mithril looked up startled.   "I... you were fast."  
 

 "We escaped right after that breath of fire, I was lucky enough to stop your fall. Though I warn that catching falling wizards is not exactly my forte, so it better not become a habit",  Rhenner manages a smirk.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "But if we land, the wall will surround us from all sides. And as you said, we have no knowledge of how safe this place is."  
 

 "Why walled?"  Natalia takes a glance--have the walls been in place for a while or do they look new?


  "We could well still be in Woodhelm",  Rhenner says, eyeing the ground below,  "It is a large forest, I haven't been everywhere."  He looks up.  "I wonder what that wall  is  for? I can't say I like it's presence, or what it suggests."  Speaking of danger...  "Once we find a secure place, we should send a message that there is a red dragon flying around in Woodhelm. It could be a danger to the local towns."  It felt somehow bizarre to state the fact outloud.  "Assuming we can make it sound believable in the first place... I've never even heard of a red dragon to be seen in Woodhelm."  The memory of the ¨formidable creature sent a chill down his spine. 

A disquieting thought runs down Natalia's own neck.  "you think...dragon leaving woodhelm? That we...second to burn, not first 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "We can land now and on our own terms.  Or we can fall out of the sky at any second."  Mithril looked around.  "That being said, the walls are already around us." 
 "If the dragon is local, this might be a defense against it."   Mithril avoided looking at the rest of the group, not wanting to see their charred skin.  As it was her normal clothing was more scorch than covering, making her wish she had prepared her patching spell. 
 

for a moment Natalia thinks to quickly shimmy out of her clothes and give them to mithril, but quickly decides against it. So instead she rummages through her bag and comes up with a spare set of clothing that she gives to the wizard.

In response to the musings over the walls Natalia adds,  "Don't think...if guard against flame and flight, then all stone, and...a dome." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "That little time?"   Mithril looked up startled.   "I... you were fast."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "We escaped right after that breath of fire, I was lucky enough to stop your fall. Though I warn that catching falling wizards is not exactly my forte, so it better not become a habit",  Rhenner manages a smirk. 
 

Natalia smiles back, but it still quavers a bit.  "We fast. And Rhenner...looks like tongue still sharp." 

Even if the rest of her friends make their way to ground, Natalia hovers in the air, where she could more easily see anything beyond the walls.
Admiral
About half a minute after they've arrived in this unfamiliar location, the party slowly starts to drift towards the ground.

A crashing sound comes from the perimeter of the wall. By the time they turn towards it, all they can see is a shape disappearing into one of the buildings, along with a crate toppling over as if just dropped. A few pieces of what look like fruit fall out of it. Now that they've had the chance to study the buildings a moment longer, they seem to resemble the interior of a fort. Four stone towers surround them, along with a raised fenced walkway on the inside of the wall.

 "Hands up!"  comes a sudden cry from their left. Along the walkway the party now sees the shapes of three bolts pointed at them, what looks like crossbows resting on the inner wall. They can barely see the figures holding the crossbows, whose eyes peer suspiciously over the arrowheads.  "Get down on the ground!" 
CoffeeIncluded
A fort. They landed in a fort and it looks like the people guarding it are twitchy as hell. The crossbows make her heart jump and she fights the sudden urge to fly into a defensive frenzy. Instead, Natalia puts her hands up in the air and spends all that energy practically leaping to the ground, twitching when the fruit comes to rest against her leg. Ah, an apple. She also cranes her neck up to see if she can identify the guards.

 "No harm meant!"  Natalia shouts. If they look like elves, she repeats it in elven.

 
 Spoiler: admiral 
Would Natalia be able to see who the guards are, or at least their species? Would she need to roll anything?
 
Athedia
Mithril glared at the eyes and the bolts behind them.   "And another reason why landing would be a good idea.  I have already been roasted, I would prefer not being ventilated as well."   She let herself start drifting slowly to the ground again.  Inside she was shaking, terrified at the prospect of nearly dying for a second time in less than an hour.
Admiral
 "Who are you?!"  comes the barked voice from behind the center crossbow on the fence.  "How'd you get-" 

Suddenly there's a pause.  "Rhenner? Rhenner Calami?"  A head pokes up from behind the crossbow, showing a set of elven ears and eyes.  "&lt;Elven&gt;Is that you?&lt;/Elven&gt;" 
CWater
Rhenner is taken aback when he hears his name spoken.  "Uh, yes?"  he replies. Had he been to this place after all?

 
 Spoiler 
Does he know the speaker?
 
Admiral
The guard pokes up a bit farther to peer at the party, followed by some whispers among the guards. The elf's head disappears, followed by footsteps as it sounds like he races down the tower towards the courtyard.  "Keep those hands up!"  comes the shout of one of the less familiar guards, but it sounds somewhat half-hearted now.

As Rhenner looks around, he is hit by a sudden wave of recognition. One of the constructions along the outside of the wall he recognizes- it has been poorly maintained, with almost no paint left to speak off, but it is unmistakably the once-red schoolhouse where he'd learned to read write Elven and Common several decades earlier. Glancing around to get his bearings, he recognizes the mayor's office still lies a few dozen yards from it. In a flash of recollection he realizes that in the panic of escaping the dragon he had settled subconsciously on a familiar, but nearby, destination; he is at the center of his Woodhelm hometown.

While many of the buildings have apparently sprouted or withered away in the decades since he's last been here, there is one change that overpowers all others: the surrounding wall. He remembers well how he used to race from the schoolhouse into the woods, sometimes to find his mother at their cabin, sometimes to disappear in an unauthorized adventure in Woodhelm. Not all his memories of his youth are fond ones- far from it- but the wall is a novel, and ugly, invasion of the space.

The door at the base of the tower opens, and someone steps out- with the clearer view, the party can see he is a middle-aged half-elf, wearing a set of mithral armor. On his right hand is the insignia of the Firm. He looks the party, still healing from their burns, up and down, his face unreadable. He finally settles on Rhenner, and raises an eyebrow.

 "Sleep too close to your campfire?"  he asks, his lightly mocking expression and cynical tone a near facsimile of Rhenner's.  "Ouch, and I thought you were supposed to be the smart one. Can't be too bright, because based on how often you've written I can only assume you're here by accident." 
 
 Spoiler 

Rhenner recognizes the man as Alder, his older brother, who taught the young cleric everything he knows about sarcasm. He hasn't seen him in 10 years.

The basics had been organized with CWater by PM, if you're wondering.
 
CWater
 "No... it... was a dragon",  Rhenner replies weakly, too dumbstruck by everything to counter his brother's sarcasm. Out of all the things to say,  "What... what happened here?",  is all he can manage, sounding very smart indeed.
Athedia
Mithril looked at Rhenner in shock.   "You know these people?"   Paranoia flew into her mind and she shot a few feet further from Rhenner.   "They aren't with HIM, are they?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril looked at Rhenner in shock.   "You know these people?"   Paranoia flew into her mind and she shot a few feet further from Rhenner.   "They aren't with HIM, are they?"  
 

Natalia stares in shock at the half-elf's approach and easy banter with Rhenner, and only Mithril's panic snaps her mind back into focus.  "No, look!"  She reaches out for her arm and points at the two men.  "Same face, same voice. They family!" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril looked at Rhenner in shock.   "You know these people?"   Paranoia flew into her mind and she shot a few feet further from Rhenner.   "They aren't with HIM, are they?"  
 

Rhenner looks at the wizard, perplexed.  "With whom? The... No! Where'd you get that idea?" 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia stares in shock at the half-elf's approach and easy banter with Rhenner, and only Mithril's panic snaps her mind back into focus.  "No, look!"  She reaches out for her arm and points at the two men.  "Same face, same voice. They family!"  
 

 "Yes, that's right. This is my brother",  Rhenner says rubbing his forehead and and avoids looking at Alder in the eyes.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner looks at the wizard, perplexed.  "With whom? The... No! Where'd you get that idea?" 
 "Yes, that's right. This is my brother",  Rhenner says rubbing his forehead and and avoids looking at Alder in the eyes. 
 

Mithril floated down closer to Rhenner, crossing her arms.   "I have known you for so little time and one of my longest allies just disappeared.  With you.  These last months have been long and trust is dangerous."   Realizing that the arrows were still pointed at her she raised her hands above her head again.   "You have a brother?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril floated down closer to Rhenner, crossing her arms.   "I have known you for so little time and one of my longest allies just disappeared.  With you.  These last months have been long and trust is dangerous."   Realizing that the arrows were still pointed at her she raised her hands above her head again.   "You have a brother?"  
 

 "...Several actually. Alder here is the eldest."  He doesn't respond to Mithril's other comments, just sighs barely visibly.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril floated down closer to Rhenner, crossing her arms.   "I have known you for so little time and one of my longest allies just disappeared.  With you.  These last months have been long and trust is dangerous."   Realizing that the arrows were still pointed at her she raised her hands above her head again.   "You have a brother?"  
 

The mention of Shiny makes Natalia visibly wilt. She hangs her head and stares at the dirt, and even her arms go a bit more limp.


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "...Several actually. Alder here is the eldest."  He doesn't respond to Mithril's other comments, just sighs barely visibly. 
 

 "Several?"  Did Rhenner even ever mention one sibling? A slightly disquieting thought comes into her head. Their reunion seemed civil enough, if sarcastic and annoyed at the lack of contact, but it would be just their luck... "Alder,"  that's his name, right?  "I...Natalia. You...Rhenner still see brothers, right?"  Dammit, she wanted to ask if they were still on good terms with each other, but so much for that (and what a first impression too).
Cavelcade
Kurt plants his feet on solid ground with a heavy sigh of contentment, sheathing his blade with a loud snap, hooking his thumbs over his belt, running a critical eye over the assembled archers before turning to watch the exchange between siblings, his own face somewhat unreadable behind the beard and flecks of smoke still rising from his clothes. After a moment, he turns away from that as well, turning his back on the whole scene and sitting down cross-legged, looking upwards.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril floated down closer to Rhenner, crossing her arms.   "I have known you for so little time and one of my longest allies just disappeared.  With you.  These last months have been long and trust is dangerous."   Realizing that the arrows were still pointed at her she raised her hands above her head again.   "You have a brother?"  
 

 "I wouldn't be too worried about Rhenner,"  Alder says, removing his bolt from his crossbow and unwinding it, before slinging it over his back.  "At his worst he's only a threat to your sense of smell." 

At seeing Alder relax, the other two guards stand up on the wall, both of them elves. One of them looks familiar to Rhenner, though he can't place where immediately. From a few doors and windows along the edge of the fort peek several middle-aged elves- now that the party doesn't appear to be a danger they seem willing to show themselves, though they still appear on edge. On the hands that the party can glimpse appear the insignia of the Firm.

Alder strides towards the party.  "Lot's changed since you've been back here, Rhenner,"  he states.  "Wall went up three months ago, just in time for when the orcs started to come calling. Not that you're polite enough to knock,"  he adds sardonically.

Alder scratches his chin.  "She's going to want to talk to you,"  he muses.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "I wouldn't be too worried about Rhenner,"  Alder says, removing his bolt from his crossbow and unwinding it, before slinging it over his back.  "At his worst he's only a threat to your sense of smell." 

At seeing Alder relax, the other two guards stand up on the wall, both of them elves. One of them looks familiar to Rhenner, though he can't place where immediately. From a few doors and windows along the edge of the fort peek several middle-aged elves- now that the party doesn't appear to be a danger they seem willing to show themselves, though they still appear on edge. On the hands that the party can glimpse appear the insignia of the Firm.

Alder strides towards the party.  "Lot's changed since you've been back here, Rhenner,"  he states.  "Wall went up three months ago, just in time for when the orcs started to come calling. Not that you're polite enough to knock,"  he adds sardonically. 
 

 "They're... here as well?",  Rhenner is shocked,  "I didn't think... That the fighting had come this far. I hadn't heard anything about it."  Why hadn't he though. Had he even really listened to the news of how these troubles were spredding? He'd been so obsessed by his own search for so long, and until two weeks ago he had been in stuck Deldon, and then in the Underdark after that.


 Alder scratches his chin.  "She's going to want to talk to you,"  he muses. 

Rhenner finally lifts up his gaze to look at his brother.  "...Who?" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "They're... here as well?",  Rhenner is shocked,  "I didn't think... That the fighting had come this far. I hadn't heard anything about it."  Why hadn't he though. Had he even really listened to the news of how these troubles were spredding? He'd been so obsessed by his own search for so long, and until two weeks ago he had been in stuck Deldon, and then in the Underdark after that. 
 

 "Oh really?"  Alder asks, his face hard.  "I'm surprised that it's never come up in our letters. Perhaps if there'd  been  away, it would have." 

 Rhenner finally lifts up his gaze to look at his brother.  "...Who?"  

 "The Mayor,"  he replies, his mouth expressing a slight smirk as he gestures towards one of the buildings, beckoning the party to follow him.  "Elynwena. Or as we know her... Mom." 
 
 Spoiler 

The news that she's mayor is new to Rhenner.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Oh really?"  Alder asks, his face hard.  "I'm surprised that it's never come up in our letters. Perhaps if there'd  been  away, it would have."  
 

 "I... it's...",  the rest of the words are incomprehensible mumble and the younger half-elf looks soon very guilty.


  "The Mayor,"  he replies, his mouth expressing a slight smirk as he gestures towards one of the buildings, beckoning the party to follow him.  "Elynwena. Or as we know her... Mom." 
 
 Spoiler 

The news that she's mayor is new to Rhenner.
 
 

Rhenner almost chokes on the air he breathes.  " What?! ",  he croaks,  "Since when?!"  He has yet to take a step towards the building.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner almost chokes on the air he breathes.  " What?! ",  he croaks,  "Since when?!"  He has yet to take a step to follow. 
 

 "Since Mayor Ellsworth was murdered in an orc raid,"  Alder replies, his tone as conversational as if he were describing the recent weather,  "and since the Deputy Mayor ran off scared the following morning. We were... short on volunteers for the position." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Since Mayor Ellsworth was murdered in an orc raid,"  Alder replies, his tone as conversational as if he were describing the recent weather,  "and since the Deputy Mayor ran off scared the following morning. We were... short on volunteers for the position."  
 

Rhenner rubs his forehead again.  "And mother did- No, on second thought, I don't even want to ask. I'm sure she keeps everything in good order around here."

"But, you said Ellsworth was killed?",  he looks up, his expression serious and showing more honest concern than he even realizes,  "How bad has it been? How many have... you lost?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Once Alder lowers his crossbow Natalia relaxes and lets her hands fall to her sides. It's visible, as though a stiff rod was suddenly removed from her body. Now she has the chance to look around--really look, not just the twitchy sizing up of a scenario before a fight. She's never seen so many elves or half-elves in one place, and greets the ones she meets with a smile and a half-wave.

Natalia follows, not saying much after her initial outburst. Or at least, she makes to follow but stops when nobody else moves yet. She stays close to Rhenner, listening carefully to what his brother has to say. Guilt flashes through her at Alder's sarcastic comment on Rhenner's lack of correspondence--she really should contact her brother. The news about Rhenner's mother becoming mayor doesn't startle Natalia the way it does him, though she does look at the two half-elves with curiosity. Rather, it's the news about the orcs that makes her choke on her own saliva and splutter,  "What? When?!"  The mayor was killed by orcs, the wall's been up for three months, when did the Horde get here? Was it when Hoodsie teleported here--how long ago was that again? The horrors of the Underdark and the lack of the sun and moon and stars as guides threw off her whole sense of time and she's only now starting to follow daylight again.

 
 Spoiler 
No, really, how long has it been since Hoodsie teleported here again?

Also, whoo-hoo! I have missed this pace! I'll hang back until later after this because it's Rhenner's thing, but I'm loving this.
 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner rubs his forehead again.  "And mother did- No, on second thought, I don't even want to ask. I'm sure she keeps everything in good order around here."

"But, you said Ellsworth was killed?",  he looks up, his expression serious and showing more honest concern than he even realizes,  "How bad has it been? How many have... you lost?"  
 

 "Some to the raids,"  Alder answers, his face softening slightly when he sees Rhenner's reaction.  "More fled in fear, but so it goes. Mom gathered our family from around Woodhelm when the raids started."  He gestures towards the guards standing on the wall, and Rhenner suddenly recognizes one as Kelso; one of his mother's many adopted stepchildren.  "The orcs have been making their movements into Woodhelm for the last few months. In the last week, they were joined by fire giants, if you'd believe that- attacks all along the edges of Woodhelm. Never seen anything like it" 

His eyes narrow.  "And when you said your burns came from a dragon... I'm starting to worry that you weren't kidding. 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Some to the raids,"  Alder answers, his face softening slightly when he sees Rhenner's reaction.  "More fled in fear, but so it goes. Mom gathered our family from around Woodhelm when the raids started."  He gestures towards the guards standing on the wall, and Rhenner suddenly recognizes one as Kelso; one of his mother's many adopted stepchildren.  "The orcs have been making their movements into Woodhelm for the last few months. In the last week, they were joined by fire giants, if you'd believe that- attacks all along the edges of Woodhelm. Never seen anything like it" 

His eyes narrow.  "And when you said your burns came from a dragon... I'm starting to worry that you weren't kidding.  
 

 "Not a joke!"  Natalia cries out in horror, unable to keep it in any longer.  "Larger than four horses, left ours in woods when fled! Only I unburnt! And fire giants?!"  She can believe that, perhaps because she's seen regular giants sided with the orcs before (she steps away from that memory, unwilling to examine it too closely), perhaps because she's never been here and so doesn't have the memory of home shattered--if it here her home, her rivers, her mills under siege she might think differently.

 "And...no help?"  Not from the Firm, or anyone? What about the Hulburg jerks--was this what they were talking about?

 
 Spoiler: Is this ok? 
If not I can edit or delete it.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Some to the raids,"  Alder answers, his face softening slightly when he sees Rhenner's reaction.  "More fled in fear, but so it goes. Mom gathered our family from around Woodhelm when the raids started."  He gestures towards the guards standing on the wall, and Rhenner suddenly recognizes one as Kelso; one of his mother's many adopted stepchildren.  "The orcs have been making their movements into Woodhelm for the last few months. In the last week, they were joined by fire giants, if you'd believe that- attacks all along the edges of Woodhelm. Never seen anything like it" 

His eyes narrow.  "And when you said your burns came from a dragon... I'm starting to worry that you weren't kidding.  
 

Mithril's eye twitched as he called the dragon a joke.   "A joke.  What sick freak would joke about being burnt alive by a dragon.  And the attacks are everywhere, your brother was helping protect Deldon when we broke through with food.  The army that's coming.  This tiny wall will not stop it." 
CWater
 "I'm afraid they speak the truth",  Rhenner comments,  "Except that Mithril is being kind, I was more like stuck in Deldon involuntarily rather than helping to protect it, but I   was  cut off from the rest of the world for some months nonetheless." 

He lets out a resigned sigh.  "Right. In all this confusion, I seem to have forgotten all about politeness and such niceties as introductions. I'm sure someone is already ashamed of me, so best get it over with."  He gestures towards the more or  less burnt party.  "Alder, meet Mithril, Natalia and Kurt. Who they are and what are they about they may tell you themselves. And this is Alder, the eldest of all my many siblings. Based on how things currently are, I assume you're going to meet more of them. Don't worry, if my memory doesn't completely fail me, not everyone have quite as bad sense of humour as he does."   His last sentence searches for his usual snarky tone, though it is left a little dry.
Cavelcade
Kurt hurriedly stands again when he hears his own name mentioned, raising his hand in greeting to Rhennar's brother. He quickly catches up, searching his pack as he does for a moment and drawing out a small rag, one of many used to keep his blade clean and tidying himself up, rubbing the ash off his hands and face, offering one to each of the other victims.  "If we're going to be meeting your mother we should probably be clean..." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril's eye twitched as he called the dragon a joke.   "A joke.  What sick freak would joke about being burnt alive by a dragon.  And the attacks are everywhere, your brother was helping protect Deldon when we broke through with food.  The army that's coming.  This tiny wall will not stop it."  
 

Natalia places a hand on Mithril's shoulder--or at least, she places it over her shoulder, afraid to agitate any burns that may remain underneath. Her lashing out...makes sense.  "Mithril right, horde everyone, enough to pile over walls. And if dragons now..."  She trails off, looking to the three of them in turn, locking eyes with Rhenner. There's a resigned determination there. If a dragon is coming to this village, if this forest is under siege by fire Giants, then they can't just leave them. Especially since this is Rhenner's home, and Rhenner's family.


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I'm afraid they speak the truth",  Rhenner comments,  "Except that Mithril is being kind, I was more like stuck in Deldon involuntarily rather than helping to protect it, but I   was  cut off from the rest of the world for some months nonetheless." 

He lets out a resigned sigh.  "Right. In all this confusion, I seem to have forgotten all about politeness and such niceties as introductions. I'm sure someone is already ashamed of me, so best get it over with."  He gestures towards the more or  less burnt party.  "Alder, meet Mithril, Natalia and Kurt. Who they are and what are they about they may tell you themselves. And this is Alder, the eldest of all my many siblings. Based on how things currently are, I assume you're going to meet more of them. Don't worry, if my memory doesn't completely fail me, not everyone have quite as bad sense of humour as he does."   His last sentence searches for his usual snarky tone, though it is left a little dry. 
 

 "how many siblings?"  Natalia asks, even as she responds to Rhenner's introduction with a wave to the crowd and a smile.


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt hurriedly stands again when he hears his own name mentioned, raising his hand in greeting to Rhennar's brother. He quickly catches up, searching his pack as he does for a moment and drawing out a small rag, one of many used to keep his blade clean and tidying himself up, rubbing the ash off his hands and face, offering one to each of the other victims.  "If we're going to be meeting your mother we should probably be clean..."  
 

 "Hah, true."  Natalia may be the only one Unburnt, but dirt is ground into her clothes from where she dove to the ground. Still, her friends need it more and so she wipes what earth she can off her pants and waits until they're done.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I'm afraid they speak the truth",  Rhenner comments,  "Except that Mithril is being kind, I was more like stuck in Deldon involuntarily rather than helping to protect it, but I   was  cut off from the rest of the world for some months nonetheless." 

He lets out a resigned sigh.  "Right. In all this confusion, I seem to have forgotten all about politeness and such niceties as introductions. I'm sure someone is already ashamed of me, so best get it over with."  He gestures towards the more or  less burnt party.  "Alder, meet Mithril, Natalia and Kurt. Who they are and what are they about they may tell you themselves. And this is Alder, the eldest of all my many siblings. Based on how things currently are, I assume you're going to meet more of them. Don't worry, if my memory doesn't completely fail me, not everyone have quite as bad sense of humour as he does."   His last sentence searches for his usual snarky tone, though it is left a little dry. 
 

Alder nods at each of the party members in greeting; though he shares Rhenner's sarcasm, he also appears to share his sense of manners.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril's eye twitched as he called the dragon a joke.   "A joke.  What sick freak would joke about being burnt alive by a dragon.  And the attacks are everywhere, your brother was helping protect Deldon when we broke through with food.  The army that's coming.  This tiny wall will not stop it."  
 

 "The wall's done well against the Horde parties that have attempted to raid us..."  the half-elf muses.  "Not quite as well against the fire giants, though we've managed. Against a dragon it would do nothing."  His careless tone masks the dismay that very briefly flits across his face.

 "Come, you should speak to the mayor."  He gestures and starts walking towards the town hall.  "She'll want to hear about this dragon... not to mention what her son has been up to all these years." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Alder nods at each of the party members in greeting; though he shares Rhenner's sarcasm, he also appears to share his sense of manners.



 "The wall's done well against the Horde parties that have attempted to raid us..."  the half-elf muses.  "Not quite as well against the fire giants, though we've managed. Against a dragon it would do nothing."  His careless tone masks the dismay that very briefly flits across his face.

 "Come, you should speak to the mayor."  He gestures and starts walking towards the town hall.  "She'll want to hear about this dragon... not to mention what her son has been up to all these years."  
 

Natalia follows Alder, looking around the whole while. She eventually speaks to ask questions, but she's a bit quieter at the moment. Especially considering how bad they're having it.  "How much Horde fought? How...many giants?"  Hoodsie teleported here...have they seen them?  "Are we...first visitors?" 
 
 Spoiler: Question 
How long ago did Hoodsie teleport here?
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia follows Alder, looking around the whole while. She eventually speaks to ask questions, but she's a bit quieter at the moment. Especially considering how bad they're having it.  "How much Horde fought? How...many giants?"  Hoodsie teleported here...have they seen them?  "Are we...first visitors?" 
 
 Spoiler: Question 
How long ago did Hoodsie teleport here?
 
 
 

Mithril nodded at Alder and started following him, but quickly grabbed Natalia's arm and pulled her back.  She whispered to her, trying to keep her voice low so that they were not heard.  "Be careful.  We are protected but Rhenner's mother?  He goes after those in power, and she got a lot of it very fast." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "how many siblings?"  Natalia asks, even as she responds to Rhenner's introduction with a wave to the crowd and a smile. 
 

 "...Define sibling",  Rhenner replies with a short smile,  "Although even by the strictest calculation, more than I could count with one hand." 

 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Alder nods at each of the party members in greeting; though he shares Rhenner's sarcasm, he also appears to share his sense of manners.

 "The wall's done well against the Horde parties that have attempted to raid us..."  the half-elf muses.  "Not quite as well against the fire giants, though we've managed. Against a dragon it would do nothing."  His careless tone masks the dismay that very briefly flits across his face.

 "Come, you should speak to the mayor."  He gestures and starts walking towards the town hall.  "She'll want to hear about this dragon... not to mention what her son has been up to all these years."  
 

  You make it sound as if I'd  never  written.   Rhenner thinks, though he doesn't dare to say it out loud. On their way towards the house, he tries to assemble his thoughts. It's true that he hadn't sent any word of himself in almost three years, not to mention that he hadn't actually been back here in... how long was it already? In any case, he felt totally unprepared for this suddenly reunion and a growing part in the back of his head was starting to wonder if he could just turn around and run away. He did still have Dimension Door... If the news about the horde and dragons hadn't been so serious, he might actually have done just that.

Some of Rhenner's discomfort is showing on his face, while he tries wipe the worst of the ash off himself and fixes the partially burned tunic with a quick Mending.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril nodded at Alder and started following him, but quickly grabbed Natalia's arm and pulled her back.  She whispered to her, trying to keep her voice low so that they were not heard.  "Be careful.  We are protected but Rhenner's mother?  He goes after those in power, and she got a lot of it very fast."  
 

Some part of Natalia wonders if mithril is being too paranoid, but the rest of her pauses. She might be right, and...oh.  "We shielded but she not. If voice learns our link...though her, then...Mithril, I think we need help...woodhelm."  

 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "...Define sibling",  Rhenner replies with a short smile,  "Although even by the strictest calculation, more than I could count with one hand." 
  You make it sound as if I'd  never  written.   Rhenner thinks, though he doesn't dare to say it out loud. On their way towards the house, he tries to assemble his thoughts. It's true that he hadn't sent any word of himself in almost three years, not to mention that he hadn't actually been back here in... how long was it already? In any case, he felt totally unprepared for this suddenly reunion and a growing part in the back of his head was starting to wonder if he could just turn around and run away. He did still have Dimension Door... If the news about the horde and dragons hadn't been so serious, he might actually have done just that.

Some of Rhenner's discomfort is showing on his face, while he tries wipe the worst of the ash off himself and fixes the partially burned tunic with a quick Mending. 
 

That many siblings? Maybe it's because his mother is an elf, and so she has more children because she loves so much longer. But then again is it that strange? Many of the adults in her village had multiple children, even if not all of them survived. It was her household that was the abberation, that stopped at two.

It's probably because of her, Natalia realizes as she looks over at Rhenner's and his attempts to wipe himself off. It sounds like he hasn't been around in a while, and even though it's not her place a part of Natalia is curious as to why.
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia turns to her friends and asks,  "If flame giants, flame dragon here, then...horde stronger in days, or here important. Can't leave?" 
Admiral
The party is led into a wide tower at the edge of the fortress. It's not the building Rhenner recognizes as the city hall, but then, he supposed, much has changed since his childhood.

On the second floor of this military construction, the party enters a small, but well-ventilated room, overcome by the presence of a large queen bed in the center of one of the walls. In it lies a tall elf, slender except for her inflated stomach- she is very clearly pregnant, and not far from birth. Her face is clearly beautiful, though distinguished by wrinkles- the signs of an elf a bit past a century. She glances down at the party with a small smile that is immediately both welcoming and judgmental; an expression Rhenner is quite familiar with.

 "Well, what a pleasant surprise,"  she says. It is part of her rare genius that it is impossible to tell whether she is sincere. Her many children had divided into three camps: one that followed her into pure sincerity, another that had descended into dark cynicism, and a third that had split the difference into a sort of sarcasm. Rhenner and Alder were of the third camp, and yet at no point had she offered a hint towards where her preference lay.

 "To what do I owe this honor?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The party is led into a wide tower at the edge of the fortress. It's not the building Rhenner recognizes as the city hall, but then, he supposed, much has changed since his childhood.

On the second floor of this military construction, the party enters a small, but well-ventilated room, overcome by the presence of a large queen bed in the center of one of the walls. In it lies a tall elf, slender except for her inflated stomach- she is very clearly pregnant, and not far from birth. Her face is clearly beautiful, though distinguished by wrinkles- the signs of an elf a bit past a century. She glances down at the party with a small smile that is immediately both welcoming and judgmental; an expression Rhenner is quite familiar with.

 "Well, what a pleasant surprise,"  she says. It is part of her rare genius that it is impossible to tell whether she is sincere. Her many children had divided into three camps: one that followed her into pure sincerity, another that had descended into dark cynicism, and a third that had split the difference into a sort of sarcasm. Rhenner and Alder were of the third camp, and yet at no point had she offered a hint towards where her preference lay.

 "To what do I owe this honor?"  
 

Natalia eventually falls silent as they're led through the village-turned-fort. Occasionally she looks back at her healing friends, and her heart lifts at the sight of her friends' horrific burns slowly healing. She looks around at the construction--Rhenner seemed stunned and it seems like the walls just recently went up. How sturdy are they? But regardless of whether or not she gets an answer to this question, it's also chased from her mind by the sight of the pregnant elf in the bed--presumably Rhenner's mother.

She looks to be about her mother's age, or at least in a similar stage of life, but it's the elf's contradictory expression that gives Natalia pause. The rogue really isn't sure what to do, or say. She doesn't seem as outwardly threatening or taciturn as the mayor of Deldon, but he had hidden depths. And who knows what she's like. Hopefully Rhenner's presence will help.

And, in the back of her mind, a part of Natalia tries very hard not to wonder at her pregnancy.

So, wary of saying the wrong thing, Natalia licks her lips, points to herself, and says,  "I'm...Natalia."  She points to Rhenner.  "Rhenner's honor." 
 
 Spoiler 
Hallelujah! I hope we can keep this up!

Oh, I think she'd be at least 200 years old to be middle aged and have wrinkles--elves start play at over 100 years old at minimum. And just how  many  children has she had?

Oh, just out of curiosity to see if Natalia can tell anything about this construction, knowledge (Architecture and engineering):  (d20+5)[ 21 ] 
 
CWater
Rhenner blinks when he first enters the room to see his mother, and throws a questioning look in Alder's direction, a hint of his usual sarcastic smile returned to his face.  " I guess I shouldn't be surprised... ",  he mutters under his breath.

His expression changes little when he steps closer to greet the new mayor, though a trace of dread seems to have joined in.  "Hello, Mother. I'm glad to see you are well",  he says, in as neutral a tone as he can possibly manage.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner blinks when he first enters the room to see his mother, and throws a questioning look in Alder's direction, a hint of his usual sarcastic smile returned to his face.  " I guess I shouldn't be surprised... ",  he mutters under his breath.

His expression changes little when he steps closer to greet the new mayor, though a trace of dread seems to have joined in.  "Hello, Mother. I'm glad to see you are well",  he says, in as neutral a tone as he can possibly manage. 
 

 "I've never been better,"  Elynwena replies.  "Or perhaps what I mean is that I've  always  been better. The Common tongue always did puzzle me." 
 "As you can see, your fourteenth younger sibling is on the way,"  she adds with a coy smile.  "The cleric in Erawood thinks it will be a boy, which is useful. One must always keep an eye on your inventory of sons- they have the habit of disappearing, like treats from a jar."  If there is malice in her tone, it is deeply concealed.

 "But where are my manners?"  she asks, as though it weren't a rhetorical question and she expected someone to fetch her manners out from underneath the bed.  "I am Elynwena Calami, mayor of the village of Elahona. And where, dear Rhenner, might your own manners be?"  She gestures towards the rest of the party.

 
 Spoiler 

Meta note: it's not a mistake that her name is Calami, ask Rhenner 🙂
 
CWater
 "Floating around the eastern forests at this time of year",  Rhenner replies. He has been listening to his mother's greeting with a sort of resigned expression, though it wasn't as bad as it could have been. At least she hadn't pretended that she'd forgotten who he was, he had thought that very likely.  "But I'll make do. Mother, meet Mithril, Natalia and Kurt, they have come from very far away. Please excuse our shabby appearance, we barely escaped from being burned alive. By a dragon." 

In another language he says,  [Elven]"Congratulations on increasing the family once again, Mother, but I have to ask",  he looks hesitant,  "I'm sure you meant it is the fourteenth child of yours, not fourteenth  younger  sibling counting from me..."[/Elven] 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Floating around the eastern forests at this time of year",  Rhenner replies. He has been listening to his mother's greeting with a sort of resigned expression, though it wasn't as bad as it could have been. At least she hadn't pretended that she'd forgotten who he was, he had thought that very likely.  "But I'll make do. Mother, meet Mithril, Natalia and Kurt, they have come from very far away. Please excuse our shabby appearance, we barely escaped from being burned alive. By a dragon." 

In another language he says,  [Elven]"Congratulations on increasing the family once again, Mother, but I have to ask",  he looks hesitant,  "I'm sure you meant it is the fourteenth child of yours, not fourteenth  younger  sibling counting from me..."[/Elven]  
 

Mithril wasn't really paying attention as Rhenner spoke.  Instead she was trying to size up his mother, see whether she could be trusted.  She snapped out of her skepticism as Rhenner switched to elven.  Had his mother really said younger? Mithril had plenty of younger siblings, but that was the curse of being oldest.  From what she knew of Rhenner there were siblings on both sides in terms of age.  She couldn't keep the shock off her face.
Cavelcade
Kurt nods politely when introduced, masking his shock at the mention of 14 children, wondering about the logistics of it straight away as if they were all born at once - feeding time for 14 little Kurts could have devoured the output of an entire kingdom each day, easily. When his ears detect his own name being mentioned he gives a polite nod of his head to acknowledge it, not even noticing the switch into elven as he tries to figure out the mammoth task required to keep them in board.  "Couldn't be done..."  he mutters quietly to himself.
CoffeeIncluded
The tension between Rhenner and his mother doesn't escape Natalia, but she doesn't acknowledge it at the moment--it doesn't seem like a good time. Besides, there's something more immediately shocking. Natalia mentally stumbles over Mrs. Calami's mention of fourteen children but manages to right herself in time to acknowledge Rhenner's introduction of her with a smile and a nod. But it's Rhenner's followup question in Elven that--figuratively at least--knocks Natalia on her back. Fourteen younger? There's  more  children? How?  Why?  Natalia looks over at Mithril and Kurt in turn and some part of her is slightly satisfied at the validation from seeing her shock mirrored on their faces.

Her family was unusually small--just her and her brother and her parents, and Natalia had heard enough quiet sobbing conversations in her parents' bedroom to know that it was her fault, even if she never meant a single thing--but  fourteen?  Physically yes maybe that could happen as disgusting as it is for Natalia to think about but what about  after?  How could you raise so many children? And why would you raise so many children?

All this is internal, and all that is visible is the look of hastily-concealed shock on Natalia's face.
CWater
A small smirk creeps to Rhenner's face when he sees the other's shocked expressions.  "I think you broke my companions, Mother. Or at least their ability to speak." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Floating around the eastern forests at this time of year",  Rhenner replies. He has been listening to his mother's greeting with a sort of resigned expression, though it wasn't as bad as it could have been. At least she hadn't pretended that she'd forgotten who he was, he had thought that very likely.  "But I'll make do. Mother, meet Mithril, Natalia and Kurt, they have come from very far away. Please excuse our shabby appearance, we barely escaped from being burned alive. By a dragon."  
 

The elf's eyes widen slightly and she begins scratching her chin thoughtfully as Rhenner mentions the dragon.


 In another language he says,  [Elven]"Congratulations on increasing the family once again, Mother, but I have to ask",  he looks hesitant,  "I'm sure you meant it is the fourteenth child of yours, not fourteenth  younger  sibling counting from me..."[/Elven]  

 "Ah, has it really been so long since you've been back here?"  Elynwena asks, with surprise that could easily be either feigned or genuine. She makes no acknowledgment of Rhenner's attempt to steer the conversation to Elven- perhaps out of consideration towards his friends, perhaps to intentionally embarrass her son in front of them.  "Why yes... I suppose you haven't met Cardiff, Senton, and Sool: half elves, 15, 20, and 31. When the Crusaders took the village of Rondon, your father and I adopted them from the refugees. And your youngest sister arrived last winter."  Rhenner figures she likely means his  step father and  step sister (his own father had died years earlier), but in his whole life Rhenner had never once heard her use that prefix.

She sighs slowly.  "Just where are you coming from... that you ran into that kind of dragon?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The elf's eyes widen slightly and she begins scratching her chin thoughtfully as Rhenner mentions the dragon.



 "Ah, has it really been so long since you've been back here?"  Elynwena asks, with surprise that could easily be either feigned or genuine. She makes no acknowledgment of Rhenner's attempt to steer the conversation to Elven- perhaps out of consideration towards his friends, perhaps to intentionally embarrass her son in front of them.  "Why yes... I suppose you haven't met Cardiff, Senton, and Sool: half elves, 15, 20, and 31. When the Crusaders took the village of Rondon, your father and I adopted them from the refugees. And your youngest sister arrived last winter."  Rhenner figures she likely means his  step father and  step sister (his own father had died years earlier), but in his whole life Rhenner had never once heard her use that prefix. 
 

Although Natalia is still in utter disbelief over the sheer number of children Rhenner's mother has (another girl? Just last winter?), her whole countenance softens at the mention of the refugees. It's like a hot punch just below the dip of her chest, the sudden reminder of the Crusaders and all the evil they've done too. And Rhenner's mother has done so much more to help, just by saving those three, than she's ever done.

In fact, they've probably made that worse.

 "Where Rondon?"  Natalia asks in a more subdued voice.  "what happened? How...they doing?" 

 She sighs slowly.  "Just where are you coming from... that you ran into that kind of dragon?"  

Natalia shakes her head in utter confusion.  "It...flew to us. It..."  she trails off into silence as those horrible few moments run through her mind again. But this time there's another realization. She didn't dodge the dragons fire.   It didn't see her.   
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The elf's eyes widen slightly and she begins scratching her chin thoughtfully as Rhenner mentions the dragon.

 "Ah, has it really been so long since you've been back here?"  Elynwena asks, with surprise that could easily be either feigned or genuine. She makes no acknowledgment of Rhenner's attempt to steer the conversation to Elven- perhaps out of consideration towards his friends, perhaps to intentionally embarrass her son in front of them.  "Why yes... I suppose you haven't met Cardiff, Senton, and Sool: half elves, 15, 20, and 31. When the Crusaders took the village of Rondon, your father and I adopted them from the refugees. And your youngest sister arrived last winter."  Rhenner figures she likely means his  step father and  step sister (his own father had died years earlier), but in his whole life Rhenner had never once heard her use that prefix. 
 

 "And by father you mean...?",  Rhenner leaves the sentence open and rubs his forehead,  "I see a lot has happened in the last few years. But...",  he has to stop to count,  "No, that still makes only ten younger ones. Unless you count the elves as younger, which I suppose they could be in some sense, though not in years. Wait, it doesn't make sense that-"  He stops his mumbling and looks up at his mother.  "You're just messing with me on purpose, aren't you?"  His tone is mildly accusing and he looks suddenly much younger with his sulky expression.


 She sighs slowly.  "Just where are you coming from... that you ran into that kind of dragon?"  

 "Right, the dragon",  Rhenner forces his voice back into more serious, the memory of the dragonfire is perhaps not surprisingly quite helpful with that.  "I'm afraid it was here in Woodhelm."  [insert more detailed description of the place and its relative location to this town]
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Ah, has it really been so long since you've been back here?"  Elynwena asks, with surprise that could easily be either feigned or genuine. She makes no acknowledgment of Rhenner's attempt to steer the conversation to Elven- perhaps out of consideration towards his friends, perhaps to intentionally embarrass her son in front of them.  "Why yes... I suppose you haven't met Cardiff, Senton, and Sool: half elves, 15, 20, and 31. When the Crusaders took the village of Rondon, your father and I adopted them from the refugees. And your youngest sister arrived last winter."  Rhenner figures she likely means his  step father and  step sister (his own father had died years earlier), but in his whole life Rhenner had never once heard her use that prefix. 
 

Mithril muttered under her breath.   "And I thought my family was large."    Finally regaining control of her expression she nodded, slightly surprised at how young Rhenner seemed now he was faced with his mother.


 She sighs slowly.  "Just where are you coming from... that you ran into that kind of dragon?"  

 "Speaking of the dragon, our horses are still in those woods.  I don't know where 'here' is but if they are seen, I would at least like mine returned." 
Cavelcade
The sound of grinding teeth comes from Kurt when the Crusader's are mentioned, his eyes staring straight ahead not quite meeting the gaze of anyone else. Thankfully, Mithril brings matters back to a more practical and immediate nature, freeing him of the need to keep thinking about it.  "Aye, Mithril speaks for me too. I hadn't planned on abandoning the creature out there but things took a turn..." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "My horse gone too, rescued Rust once...would like twice,"  Natalia says. She describes the area where they encountered the dragon as best she can in her tangled speech.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "And by father you mean...?",  Rhenner leaves the sentence open and rubs his forehead,  "I see a lot has happened in the last few years. But...",  he has to stop to count,  "No, that still makes only ten younger ones. Unless you count the elves as younger, which I suppose they could be in some sense, though not in years. Wait, it doesn't make sense that-"  He stops his mumbling and looks up at his mother.  "You're just messing with me on purpose, aren't you?"  His tone is mildly accusing and he looks suddenly much younger with his sulky expression. 
 

Elynwena raises her eyebrows.  "You count ten? Have you really been away that many years, that you haven't heard about- no, that couldn't be. You must have just misremembered."  She moves on immediately, and Rhenner still cannot tell if she is merely mocking him.


  "Right, the dragon",  Rhenner forces his voice back into more serious, the memory of the dragonfire is perhaps not surprisingly quite helpful with that.  "I'm afraid it was here in Woodhelm."  [insert more detailed description of the place and its relative location to this town] 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Speaking of the dragon, our horses are still in those woods.  I don't know where 'here' is but if they are seen, I would at least like mine returned."  
 

 "That's nearly twenty miles away..."  she replies thoughtfully.  "Far enough your horses will be difficult to retrieve. But still not nearly far enough from the dragon for my comfort."  Her expression is more resigned and disappointed then distressed.  "This wall has been the only thing standing between us and the orc and giant raiding parties. A red dragon would bring it down without trouble." 

She continues thinking. Rhenner had never known his mother to panic; she was a problem-solver by nature. When Rhenner's father got sick in his old age, she'd hired an experienced cleric from the Church to care for him full time; when the fees grew too high, she'd raised a small fortune in favors and blackmail from her Firm contacts to pay for it. And yet when he passed on she'd buried him without a single tear, and a year later was remarried.

 "Your sister Anjar's husband has already arranged for a shipment of military supplies, which should be arriving tomorrow,"  she states casually. Rhenner knows that Anjar's husband is a broker for the Syndicate, meaning the supplies are undoubtedly stolen goods. As a member of the Firm Elynwena would face nearly a decade in prison, were she caught making such a purchase.  "Among them are some potions and weapons we'd intended to use against the fire giants. They'll be of some use against a dragon, I suppose."  She seems distinctly unsatisfied with her chances.

 
 Spoiler 
Anyone is welcome to Sense Motive.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elynwena raises her eyebrows.  "You count ten? Have you really been away that many years, that you haven't heard about- no, that couldn't be. You must have just misremembered."  She moves on immediately, and Rhenner still cannot tell if she is merely mocking him. 
 

Neither can Natalia, which is why she just stares in bemusement. Still, she places her weight against Rhenner, her presence a reminder to the half-elf that she's there. It may not be her place, but she'll still support him.


  "That's nearly twenty miles away..."  she replies thoughtfully.  "Far enough your horses will be difficult to retrieve. But still not nearly far enough from the dragon for my comfort."  Her expression is more resigned and disappointed then distressed.  "This wall has been the only thing standing between us and the orc and giant raiding parties. A red dragon would bring it down without trouble."  

Twenty miles...that's far, and yet not nearly far enough. How far can a dragon fly in a day? Probably faster than a horse can run, and a dragon wouldn't have to worry about the trees. And yet still too far for a horse to run and for them to find, unless...  Mithril, can you scry...Honey, Rust, rest?" 

 She continues thinking. Rhenner had never known his mother to panic; she was a problem-solver by nature. When Rhenner's father got sick in his old age, she'd hired an experienced cleric from the Church to care for him full time; when the fees grew too high, she'd raised a small fortune in favors and blackmail from her Firm contacts to pay for it. And yet when he passed on she'd buried him without a single tear, and a year later was remarried.

 "Your sister Anjar's husband has already arranged for a shipment of military supplies, which should be arriving tomorrow,"  she states casually. Rhenner knows that Anjar's husband is a broker for the Syndicate, meaning the supplies are undoubtedly stolen goods. As a member of the Firm Elynwena would face nearly a decade in prison, were she caught making such a purchase.  "Among them are some potions and weapons we'd intended to use against the fire giants. They'll be of some use against a dragon, I suppose."  She seems distinctly unsatisfied with her chances. 

Natalia doesn't now anything about Anjar, but tomorrow? If the dragon shows up, they might be able to help. And she seems to know so many people...then again, she's several hundred years old at least.  "What...potions, weapons? Because...saw dragon's flame, claws."  She pauses, the pieces of the preparation falling into her mind like with portions of a trap, and she's off.  "Would need flame protection, stoneskin..."  what was it Shiny used, not the invisibility spell, from what Mithril said she's the outlier for escaping the dragon's notice, and...ah, that was it!  "Displacement, shielding from evil...Mithril, what else you know of dragons?" 

If the dragon is so close, then they can't leave Rhenner's family and village. At least, it just...she looks at Elynwena.

 
 Spoiler 
Anyone is welcome to Sense Motive.
 

 
 Spoiler: Sense motive 
 (d20+6)[ 25 ] 

Woo-hoo! I wasn't too annoying, was I?

I start vet school tomorrow!
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "That's nearly twenty miles away..."  she replies thoughtfully.  "Far enough your horses will be difficult to retrieve. But still not nearly far enough from the dragon for my comfort."  Her expression is more resigned and disappointed then distressed.  "This wall has been the only thing standing between us and the orc and giant raiding parties. A red dragon would bring it down without trouble." 

She continues thinking. Rhenner had never known his mother to panic; she was a problem-solver by nature. When Rhenner's father got sick in his old age, she'd hired an experienced cleric from the Church to care for him full time; when the fees grew too high, she'd raised a small fortune in favors and blackmail from her Firm contacts to pay for it. And yet when he passed on she'd buried him without a single tear, and a year later was remarried.

 "Your sister Anjar's husband has already arranged for a shipment of military supplies, which should be arriving tomorrow,"  she states casually. Rhenner knows that Anjar's husband is a broker for the Syndicate, meaning the supplies are undoubtedly stolen goods. As a member of the Firm Elynwena would face nearly a decade in prison, were she caught making such a purchase.  "Among them are some potions and weapons we'd intended to use against the fire giants. They'll be of some use against a dragon, I suppose."  She seems distinctly unsatisfied with her chances.

 
 Spoiler 
Anyone is welcome to Sense Motive.
 
 
 

Mithril nodded.   "That is fair, I was unsure of the distance traveled."   Mithril was impressed, this woman seemed to have connections everywhere, even if Rhenner seemed more on edge than usual.  At Natalia's question Mithril shook her head.   "Not til tomorrow unfortunately." 
 
 Spoiler 
Sense Motive:  (1d20+1)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elynwena raises her eyebrows.  "You count ten? Have you really been away that many years, that you haven't heard about- no, that couldn't be. You must have just misremembered."  She moves on immediately, and Rhenner still cannot tell if she is merely mocking him. 
 

Rhenner sighs mentally, and doesn't try to ask more questions of the subject. When mother was like this, it was better to leave it be. Especially since it was impossible to get that friendly smile to admit she was being difficult on purpose. Somethings never changed, did they?

He rubbed his forehead again. It's not like she was exactly wrong with what she was implying either.


  "That's nearly twenty miles away..."  she replies thoughtfully.  "Far enough your horses will be difficult to retrieve. But still not nearly far enough from the dragon for my comfort."  Her expression is more resigned and disappointed then distressed.  "This wall has been the only thing standing between us and the orc and giant raiding parties. A red dragon would bring it down without trouble."  


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Twenty miles...that's far, and yet not nearly far enough. How far can a dragon fly in a day? Probably faster than a horse can run, and a dragon wouldn't have to worry about the trees. And yet still too far for a horse to run and for them to find, unless...  Mithril, can you scry...Honey, Rust, rest?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril nodded.   "That is fair, I was unsure of the distance traveled."   Mithril was impressed, this woman seemed to have connections everywhere, even if Rhenner seemed more on edge than usual.  At Natalia's question Mithril shook her head.   "Not til tomorrow unfortunately."  
 

Rhenner lifts his gaze from the floorboards he's been studying.  "Not to say it wouldn't be good to have them back. But shouldn't we also think about locating the dragon? Assuming the attack was not specifically against us, then whether the dragon is in league with the hoard or not, it had no issue in attacking travellers on the road, unprovoked. What if it chooses a settlement as its next target? This one, or some other?" 

 She continues thinking. Rhenner had never known his mother to panic; she was a problem-solver by nature. When Rhenner's father got sick in his old age, she'd hired an experienced cleric from the Church to care for him full time; when the fees grew too high, she'd raised a small fortune in favors and blackmail from her Firm contacts to pay for it. And yet when he passed on she'd buried him without a single tear, and a year later was remarried.

 "Your sister Anjar's husband has already arranged for a shipment of military supplies, which should be arriving tomorrow,"  she states casually. Rhenner knows that Anjar's husband is a broker for the Syndicate, meaning the supplies are undoubtedly stolen goods. As a member of the Firm Elynwena would face nearly a decade in prison, were she caught making such a purchase.  "Among them are some potions and weapons we'd intended to use against the fire giants. They'll be of some use against a dragon, I suppose."  She seems distinctly unsatisfied with her chances. 

 "Good to hear that you've found him an useful addition to the family",  Rhenner replies dryly. He doesn't voice the dangers involved that come to his mind. Mother was certainly well aware of the risks, and being warned by a long absent son would only give her another reason to throw thorny comments at him. Neither does he then inquire after Anjar, even if he would have liked to, as that would probably also get him more snide remarks.


 Natalia doesn't now anything about Anjar, but tomorrow? If the dragon shows up, they might be able to help. And she seems to know so many people...then again, she's several hundred years old at least.  "What...potions, weapons? Because...saw dragon's flame, claws."  She pauses, the pieces of the preparation falling into her mind like with portions of a trap, and she's off.  "Would need flame protection, stoneskin..."  what was it Shiny used, not the invisibility spell, from what Mithril said she's the outlier for escaping the dragon's notice, and...ah, that was it!  "Displacement, shielding from evil...Mithril, what else you know of dragons?" 

If the dragon is so close, then they can't leave Rhenner's family and village. At least, it just...she looks at Elynwena.  

 "I can cast spells to grant temporary immunity to fire",  Rhenner points out, then turns back to Elynwena,  "Mother, what of these fire giants? And orcs? Do you know if they've set camp nearby, or are they more moving raiders?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril nodded.   "That is fair, I was unsure of the distance traveled."   Mithril was impressed, this woman seemed to have connections everywhere, even if Rhenner seemed more on edge than usual.  At Natalia's question Mithril shook her head.   "Not til tomorrow unfortunately."  
 

 "Oh. Can...check tomorrow?"  If the horses are even alive tomorrow.

 
 Spoiler 
Sense Motive: [roll0]
 
[/QUOTE]


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner lifts his gaze from the floorboards he's been studying.  "Not to say it wouldn't be good to have them back. But shouldn't we also think about locating the dragon? Assuming the attack was not specifically against us, then whether the dragon is in league with the hoard or not, it had no issue in attacking travellers on the road, unprovoked. What if it chooses a settlement as its next target? This one, or some other?"  
 

That's what she's worried about too.  "Rhenner, said no fire dragons here...right? If fire giants attack, maybe...fire dragon come from same place. And...this only settlement? Why burn here?"  Unless...this can't be because of Rhenner, can it?! No...no, that can't be it, Natalia thinks rapidly as she fights the rising paranoia--Mithril's rubbed off on her in this way too, it seems. The horde has been attacking longer than Rhenner has been traveling with them, and he wasn't involved before, was he?


  "I can cast spells to grant temporary immunity to fire",  Rhenner points out, then turns back to Elynwena,  "Mother, what of these fire giants? And orcs? Do you know if they've set camp nearby, or are they more moving raiders?"  

 "I can stoneskin if a scroll. Mithril, can you...displacement? Invisible?"  She's not sure quite why she says it, but somehow Natalia knows it to be true.

She still doesn't say anything about his family despite her increasing curiosity. It's not her place.
Cavelcade
Kurt looks up curiously, bumped from his own thoughts by the discussion of tactics.  "Can ya tell us more about the forces outside the wall? Fire giants and orcs, but how many and where?"  Finally, something to sink his teeth into and really get involved with.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt looks up curiously, bumped from his own thoughts by the discussion of tactics.  "Can ya tell us more about the forces outside the wall? Fire giants and orcs, but how many and where?"  Finally, something to sink his teeth into and really get involved with. 
 

 "The orcs have been making raids into this for the last six months,"  Rhenner's mother replies.  "Four months ago a raid killed Ellsworth,"  she adds, referring to the elven mayor who'd preceded her,  "and that's when I made the decision to build the wall. Alder, Lander and Neeson led the construction- it wasn't easy or cheap, but it was just in time."  The party had already met Rhenner's older brother Alder. Lander is one of Rhenner's older elven stepbrothers, and Neeson is his half-elven husband.

 "The raids grew in force two months ago. Used to be eight to ten orcs at a time; now it was a dozen, fifteen, twenty: sometimes a chieftain among them. Once a week at least. Usually we were able to hold them off with arrows and repair the damage to the wall afterwards- they weren't after us specifically, just rampaging through the forest, so when we put up resistance they usually left. They burned down the cottages, though."  Elynwena was referring to the small houses in the woods not far from the village center, where they had grown up.  "Three weeks ago the attacks from the fire giants started- one breached the wall once, but the guards brought him down. He killed your older brother Martine, though,"  she adds informatively.  "I took in his three children afterwards, of course." 
 
 Spoiler 

Rhenner is welcome to share the non-dialogue exposition himself, the others don't know it yet. Martine is his second oldest brother, not counting step-siblings.
 

 
 Spoiler: Natalia only 

Already unsure what to think of Elynwena, and not as intimidated as Rhenner, Natalia is a bit more perceptive of the Elven woman. Though she doesn't think Elynwena bears any guilt in the attacks, Natalia feels like she might know more than she's letting on about what the orcs, giants and dragon are after.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "The orcs have been making raids into this for the last six months,"  Rhenner's mother replies.  "Four months ago a raid killed Ellsworth,"  she adds, referring to the elven mayor who'd preceded her,  "and that's when I made the decision to build the wall. Alder, Lander and Neeson led the construction- it wasn't easy or cheap, but it was just in time."  The party had already met Rhenner's older brother Alder. Lander is one of Rhenner's older elven stepbrothers, and Neeson is his half-elven husband.

 "The raids grew in force two months ago. Used to be eight to ten orcs at a time; now it was a dozen, fifteen, twenty: sometimes a chieftain among them. Once a week at least. Usually we were able to hold them off with arrows and repair the damage to the wall afterwards- they weren't after us specifically, just rampaging through the forest, so when we put up resistance they usually left. They burned down the cottages, though."  Elynwena was referring to the small houses in the woods not far from the village center, where they had grown up.  "Three weeks ago the attacks from the fire giants started- one breached the wall once, but the guards brought him down. He killed your older brother Martine, though,"  she adds informatively.  "I took in his three children afterwards, of course."  
 

every word increases the horror. It's been getting worse and worse, at the same time that the horde has been escalating everywhere else too. Rampaging and destruction, just like everywhere else but every time Woodhelm put up a fight they came back with more, and stronger, all the way up to Giants. Why?

Her train of thought is temporarily interrupted by the casual way Elynwena tells Rhenner her bother was killed by fire Giants. Natalia gasps, a soft inhalation of breath, and puts her arm tighter around Rhenner.

 "I...so sorry,"  she says to them both, but especially Rhenner who has just learned.

 
 Spoiler: Natalia only 

Already unsure what to think of Elynwena, and not as intimidated as Rhenner, Natalia is a bit more perceptive of the Elven woman. Though she doesn't think Elynwena bears any guilt in the attacks, Natalia feels like she might know more than she's letting on about what the orcs, giants and dragon are after.
 
[/QUOTE]
But still, the horde is coming back stronger every time, and this time they might have brought a dragon along. This can't be random destruction. There's something--or someone--else that they're after. Her eyebrows narrow slightly, possibly in determination.

 "We'll help,"  Natalia says with sudden force and conviction. She turns back to each of her friends in turn, as if daring them to object. But she also signals Rhenner's mother with a quick sideways glance, and when her gaze levels upon Mithril she also flicks her eyes upwards. It's not an eye roll but, if Mithril can understand, a silent request to gaze upon her mind.
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Got some unpleasant fever atm, (38 C /100 F), so if this post turns out groggy, I'll blame that.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "The orcs have been making raids into this for the last six months,"  Rhenner's mother replies.  "Four months ago a raid killed Ellsworth,"  she adds, referring to the elven mayor who'd preceded her,  "and that's when I made the decision to build the wall. Alder, Lander and Neeson led the construction- it wasn't easy or cheap, but it was just in time."  The party had already met Rhenner's older brother Alder. Lander is one of Rhenner's older elven stepbrothers, and Neeson is his half-elven husband. 
 

 "Older brother",  Rhenner explains briefly after her mother mentions the names, to help with the already nigh impossible task of keeping track of their family tree,  "and his husband." 

  "The raids grew in force two months ago. Used to be eight to ten orcs at a time; now it was a dozen, fifteen, twenty: sometimes a chieftain among them. Once a week at least. Usually we were able to hold them off with arrows and repair the damage to the wall afterwards- they weren't after us specifically, just rampaging through the forest, so when we put up resistance they usually left. They burned down the cottages, though."  Elynwena was referring to the small houses in the woods not far from the village center, where they had grown up.  "Three weeks ago the attacks from the fire giants started- one breached the wall once, but the guards brought him down. He killed your older brother Martine, though,"  she adds informatively.  "I took in his three children afterwards, of course."  

Rhenner just stares back at his mother with a blank expression.  "Martine..." . He seems to have trouble comprehending the information. When Alder had not told him of any losses within the family outside, he had begun to hope, no believe, that there were none. He shifts his gaze to study the wall for a time, until the other words register.  "You took in... What of his wife?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  
 Spoiler 
Got some unpleasant fever atm, (38 C /100 F), so if this post turns out groggy, I'll blame that.
 

 "Older brother",  Rhenner explains briefly after her mother mentions the names, to help with the already nigh impossible task of keeping track of their family tree,  "and his husband."  
 

Older brother, and his husband. It takes Natalia far longer than it should for this to connect in her mind, but when it does she trips over it. The surprise temporarily interrupting her horror at Elynwena's take is clear, and almost unconsciously she raises a hand to her chest. He and his husband. It's hard to put that into words. But it's like...she matters. Or would. To them, to someone. In this way.


 Rhenner just stares back at his mother with a blank expression.  "Martine..." . He seems to have trouble comprehending the information. When Alder had not told him of any losses within the family outside, he had begun to hope, no believe, that there were none. He shifts his gaze to study the wall for a time, until the other words register.  "You took in... What of his wife?"  

Natalia leans against Rhenner, there for him, but it still doesn't feel like enough. What else should she do? What else could she do?

 
 Spoiler 
I guess both these posts for Natalia happen together. And that sucks--get better, cwater!
 
Cavelcade
Kurt nods solemnly at that, glancing at Rhennar to see how he's taking it but saying nothing when the half-elf chooses to stare at nothing, a troubled frown passing over his face briefly.  "Do you know where the orcs come from? Is it always the same side they assault?"  Chewing his beard a bit as he frowns at the ground as if searching for answers there.  "Do you know where they go, if they're just passing you by?" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner just stares back at his mother with a blank expression.  "Martine..." . He seems to have trouble comprehending the information. When Alder had not told him of any losses within the family outside, he had begun to hope, no believe, that there were none. He shifts his gaze to study the wall for a time, until the other words register.  "You took in... What of his wife?"  
 

 "She's a bit too old to adopt, don't you think?"  Elynwena replies, opaquely.


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt nods solemnly at that, glancing at Rhennar to see how he's taking it but saying nothing when the half-elf chooses to stare at nothing, a troubled frown passing over his face briefly.  "Do you know where the orcs come from? Is it always the same side they assault?"  Chewing his beard a bit as he frowns at the ground as if searching for answers there.  "Do you know where they go, if they're just passing you by?"  
 

Alder, who has been standing silently to the side, interrupts at this point.  "The orcs don't settle in Woodhelm for more than a few nights at a time,"  he informs them.  "This territory has traditionally belonged to human and Elven settlements. The orcs prefer to make their camps in the deserts and plains, their own territory; until the last year it was unheard of for orc barbarians to enter the forest, much less fire giants, who prefer the mountains that lie south of those plains. We're about thirty to forty miles from the border between Woodhelm and the plains- there are a few large Horde encampments out there." 
 "When the orcs do attack, they change their sides, and find a part of the wall to attempt to breach. We've strengthened it enough over time that it can stand up to a dozen barbarians for enough time to drive them off, or to one or two fire giants. They pick whatever part seems easiest to attack. But they're free to maneuver in how they approach and retreat. The woods are thick enough to provide them some cover once they're more than a hundred yards away, but not thick enough to constrain their movements." 
 "If they truly wanted to lay siege to us; with, say, a hundred barbarians- we would have no way to stop them. But I suppose we're not worth the effort, they prefer to pick off what they can from us and the other villages. We have four rangers out in the forest: they hunt to supplement our food supplies, and can sometimes give us early warning. It used to be six..."  he adds unhappily.  "The raids are the biggest threat to the supply caravans, but the Firm has been increasing the armed guard on each in response. Increases the price, of course." 
 
 Spoiler 

Note that you don't  have  to stay and fight with them. As usual, just keeping the sandbox full of sand 😉
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "She's a bit too old to adopt, don't you think?"  Elynwena replies, opaquely. 
 

Wait, what?  "Rhenner, what mean? She wife, so...her kids too, right?"  Come to think of it,,2$6 did he take his mom's last name? Though that can wait.



 Alder, who has been standing silently to the side, interrupts at this point.  "The orcs don't settle in Woodhelm for more than a few nights at a time,"  he informs them.  "This territory has traditionally belonged to human and Elven settlements. The orcs prefer to make their camps in the deserts and plains, their own territory; until the last year it was unheard of for orc barbarians to enter the forest, much less fire giants, who prefer the mountains that lie south of those plains. We're about thirty to forty miles from the border between Woodhelm and the plains- there are a few large Horde encampments out there."  

 "And just started fighting here...year ag? Nothing else then?"  two months ago...when did Hoodsie teleport here? And where were they three weeks ago? The damned underdark screwed up her sense of time and she still hasn't quite recalibrated herself. Maybe their interference is why they stepped up their attacks. Deleon was still holding out though.


  "When the orcs do attack, they change their sides, and find a part of the wall to attempt to breach. We've strengthened it enough over time that it can stand up to a dozen barbarians for enough time to drive them off, or to one or two fire giants. They pick whatever part seems easiest to attack. But they're free to maneuver in how they approach and retreat. The woods are thick enough to provide them some cover once they're more than a hundred yards away, but not thick enough to constrain their movements." 
 "If they truly wanted to lay siege to us; with, say, a hundred barbarians- we would have no way to stop them. But I suppose we're not worth the effort, they prefer to pick off what they can from us and the other villages. We have four rangers out in the forest: they hunt to supplement our food supplies, and can sometimes give us early warning. It used to be six..."  he adds unhappily.  "The raids are the biggest threat to the supply caravans, but the Firm has been increasing the armed guard on each in response. Increases the price, of course." 
 
 Spoiler 

Note that you don't  have  to stay and fight with them. As usual, just keeping the sandbox full of sand 😉
 
 

 "or dragon."  Natalia adds darkly.  "fire dragons fly where...fire Giants walk, right? Maybe...tired of Orc failure, want sure."  And they want something. Natalia's more and more convinced that the Giants sent after them were sent after  them,  specifically.

 
 Spoiler: a few things 
first, what are the answers to the questions Natalia asked? Second, Natalia is going to be adamant that they help. She'll also try to talk to Elynwena alone after this is done.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "She's a bit too old to adopt, don't you think?"  Elynwena replies, opaquely. 
 

Always, always that innocent smile. Rhenner had almost forgot how frustrating mother could be if she wanted, it made one want to scream. He suspected that was the whole point. There were those who believed Elynwena was a truly sincere and gentle person, he knew. Rhenner considered it total nonsense; that would have required her to be a simpleton, and nothing could be farther from the truth, his mother was one of the most clever people he had ever met, even after all the world he had seen, he still held that opinion.


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia leans against Rhenner, there for him, but it still doesn't feel like enough. What else should she do? What else could she do? 
 

Rhenner doesn't acknowledge Natalia's attempt at consoling him, though he doesn't push or step away from her either. It is unclear whether he has even noticed her or not, his eyes fixed on the opposite wall. Somewhere in the middle of his Alder's explanantion, his gaze slowly moves to him.


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Alder, who has been standing silently to the side, interrupts at this point.  "The orcs don't settle in Woodhelm for more than a few nights at a time,"  he informs them.  "This territory has traditionally belonged to human and Elven settlements. The orcs prefer to make their camps in the deserts and plains, their own territory; until the last year it was unheard of for orc barbarians to enter the forest, much less fire giants, who prefer the mountains that lie south of those plains. We're about thirty to forty miles from the border between Woodhelm and the plains- there are a few large Horde encampments out there." 
 "When the orcs do attack, they change their sides, and find a part of the wall to attempt to breach. We've strengthened it enough over time that it can stand up to a dozen barbarians for enough time to drive them off, or to one or two fire giants. They pick whatever part seems easiest to attack. But they're free to maneuver in how they approach and retreat. The woods are thick enough to provide them some cover once they're more than a hundred yards away, but not thick enough to constrain their movements." 
 "If they truly wanted to lay siege to us; with, say, a hundred barbarians- we would have no way to stop them. But I suppose we're not worth the effort, they prefer to pick off what they can from us and the other villages. We have four rangers out in the forest: they hunt to supplement our food supplies, and can sometimes give us early warning. It used to be six..."  he adds unhappily.  "The raids are the biggest threat to the supply caravans, but the Firm has been increasing the armed guard on each in response. Increases the price, of course." 
 
 Spoiler 

Note that you don't  have  to stay and fight with them. As usual, just keeping the sandbox full of sand 😉
 
 
 

Rhenner looks at his brother silently for a moment.  "If you had the means, is there anything you can think of that could end or at least lessen the attacks. Are they after something in the forest? Or do they have an encampment close by that makes it easy for them to send raiders?" 
Athedia
Mithril looked at the others in astonishment and annoyance.   "We are already supposed to be in two places at once.  And you want to do this as well?  The more we delay, the further behind we get." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril looked at the others in astonishment and annoyance.   "We are already supposed to be in two places at once.  And you want to do this as well?  The more we delay, the further behind we get."  
 

Natalia shakes her head.  "No, have to help."  She holds up her fingers, starting from the more pragmatic like Mithril--this Mithril--probably would. The thought isn't...  "Can't travel without horses, can't...get horses in forest when dragon above. And...need rest day to even find horses. Dragon could fly...here by night."  She extends another finger.  "This Rhenner's family, home. Can't just leave. Not his, not yours, Kurt's, mine."  Finally, she extends a third finger, pausing on it for a second. And another. Finally she whispers to Rhenner, leaning all the way up against his ear so no sound can escape,  "What your mom like? Really like, when you dig something hidden, buried?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia shakes her head.  "No, have to help."  She holds up her fingers, starting from the more pragmatic like Mithril--this Mithril--probably would. The thought isn't...  "Can't travel without horses, can't...get horses in forest when dragon above. And...need rest day to even find horses. Dragon could fly...here by night."  She extends another finger.  "This Rhenner's family, home. Can't just leave. Not his, not yours, Kurt's, mine."  Finally, she extends a third finger, pausing on it for a second. And another. Finally she whispers to Rhenner, leaning all the way up against his ear so no sound can escape,  "What your mom like? Really like, when you dig something hidden, buried?"  
 

 "So we wait until we get the horses.  And if Rhenner's family is smart, they would run.  We already left our homes, do you even know if anyone is still alive?  I know I haven't contacted my family since I left the city months ago." 
 
 Spoiler: Spelling error 
I meant haven't not have.  Changes the entire sentence there.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "So we wait until we get the horses.  And if Rhenner's family is smart, they would run.  We already left our homes, do you even know if anyone is still alive?  I know I have contacted my family since I left the city months ago."  
 

Natalia recoils.  "Don't...say that."  And yet yes, there's the guilt too, she should have contacted her brother at least by now...She pushes it aside for the moment though until Rhenner can cast that spell again. Instead she leaps onto something else.  "if waiting, then do something while waiting. And...you always say run. What if can't? What if nowhere to run to, or...reason to stay?"  That last hesitation isn't Nutspeak, not entirely. She's facing Mithril and Rhenner and Kurt as she says that last part, so they can see the extra intent in her gaze that Elynwena can't.
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
The damn cough is keeping me awaaaake...
Will still blame any resulting grogginess on the illness and sleep deprivation.
 

Rhenner looks away from the debate. Some part of him argues that he should say something, but he can't find the words. He doesn't feel like he has a right to them either. A crack is torn to the numbness that overtook him and his fist clenches. A subconscious proactive gesture that seeks to calm his mind.


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Finally she whispers to Rhenner, leaning all the way up against his ear so no sound can escape,  "What your mom like? Really like, when you dig something hidden, buried?"  
 

Rhenner doesn't reply, just shakes his head barely visibly.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "So we wait until we get the horses.  And if Rhenner's family is smart, they would run.  We already left our homes, do you even know if anyone is still alive?  I know I have contacted my family since I left the city months ago."  
 

  Pack up their things and run...   He senses a throbbing bundle forming in his chest. Like an invisible hand was squeezing his insides.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "So we wait until we get the horses.  And if Rhenner's family is smart, they would run.  We already left our homes, do you even know if anyone is still alive?  I know I haven't contacted my family since I left the city months ago."  
 

 "A lot of us wanted to run,"  Elynwena interjects brightly. She has the tone of a stranger in a tavern, interrupting a conversation to add dubiously helpful advice.  "We held a vote, four months ago. I voted in favor- even had a plan worked out to settle in the woods north of Providencia, where Neeson's sister lives. Have you met her?"  she asks, turning to Alder instead of Rhenner.  "Very capable. And such good aim with a bow." 

She sighs.  "But some of the town insisted on staying. And eight threatened to stay behind even if we fled. Two of your brothers and one of your sisters among them,"  she adds to Rhenner.  "I thought about leaving them behind. But I've found I'm much happier when my children are alive rather than dead."  She adds this in a patient voice, as if she were explaining a quaint tribal custom.

 "So we started work on the wall. Some of the townspeople disagreed, and they ran off. Those who were polite enough to tell me first, I arranged safe passage to the Brearshaw Territory. Others just disappeared in the middle of the night. Do you remember the Sullivans? Oh, you were too young. Anyway..."  She scratches her chin.

 "Oh, Martine's wife, too. She fled the morning after he died."  She sighs slowly.  "Quite a shame, I liked her. And her cousin was third in line to be the Archbishop of Cardonne. Perhaps she'll write?"  She looks thoughtful.  "I was surprised she didn't take her children with her, or even tell them where she was going. I certainly would have, with my own children. But,"  she declares in a sing-songy voice,  "it takes all kinds to make a world!"  Elynwena had taken over for a semester as the town schoolteacher, when the previous one had fallen ill. She was not invited to return in the spring.

 "Where were we? Hmmm... no, running isn't part of our plans. You can run if you like, though. We'll see you in another..."  she counts on her fingers.  "Seven years?" 
CWater
Perhaps ironically enough, Elynwena's interruption disrupts the unpleasant train of thought in Rhenner's mind and the pressure in his chest eases. Instead it is like there is a sharp nail made of guilt that is being thrust in, and his mother is holding the hammer, not even looking while she deals the blows.

 "You are optimistic in your estimation, Mother",  he sighs, sounding most defeated.   Now, just please don't state aloud how long I've really been gone.   He couldn't remember the exact number of years right away, but he knew it was far more than seven.

 "So what is your plan then?",  he asks again, presumably from his mother, though he doesn't dare to look at her.
Cavelcade
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "So we wait until we get the horses.  And if Rhenner's family is smart, they would run.  We already left our homes, do you even know if anyone is still alive?  I know I haven't contacted my family since I left the city months ago." 
 
 Spoiler: Spelling error 
I meant haven't not have.  Changes the entire sentence there.
 
 
 

Kurt shakes his head.  "There's no goin' back for me. I don't want it to be like that for anyone else."  The matter was settled in his mind as soon as he heard about it. Deal with what's in front of you, after all.

He turns to Elynwena again, curious about some of the things she said.  "Are you sure they left, and weren't taken? Leaving children behind is...hrm. Well, fine, I guess you know what you're talking about. But what about the other villages, why have you stayed so scattered? Walls are good, people are better." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Perhaps ironically enough, Elynwena's interruption disrupts the unpleasant train of thought in Rhenner's mind and the pressure in his chest eases. Instead it is like there is a sharp nail made of guilt that is being thrust in, and his mother is holding the hammer, not even looking while she deals the blows.

 "You are optimistic in your estimation, Mother",  he sighs, sounding most defeated.   Now, just please don't state aloud how long I've really been gone.   He couldn't remember the exact number of years right away, but he knew it was far more than seven.

 "So what is your plan then?",  he asks again, presumably from his mother, though he doesn't dare to look at her. 
 

 "Oh, we'll get by somehow,"  she says, waving her hand dismissively.  "We always have. Everyone always does, in fact, up until the day they die." 
 "We don't know that the dragon is coming here soon, or ever,"  Alder notes.  "There are many other towns and villages in the region, and it could return to its home..." 

 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 He turns to Elynwena again, curious about some of the things she said.  "Are you sure they left, and weren't taken? Leaving children behind is...hrm.  
 

Elynwena points at him in a congratulatory fashion.  "I'm sure that's it,"  she replies.  "She must have been kidnapped. And the kidnappers, thoughtful as they are, packed her five sets of clothes and her books. I like you already, Kurt, thinking the best of people like that."  As always, her tone shows no obvious signs of sarcasm.


  "But what about the other villages, why have you stayed so scattered? Walls are good, people are better."  

She sighs thoughtfully.  "A few settlers have joined from other towns... especially those cities that faced the worst raids... but trust runs low in these woods. And when you bring people together, you gain some strength- but you're also a bigger target. The more villages are out there, the more likely the raiders will attack someone else."  She shrugs at the harsh reality.

Then she raises a finger.  "But you can  always  trust family. That's why we adopt them, when we can. Your children, you can always trust to be there when times are difficult."  She glances up at Rhenner as though she's forgotten he was there.  "Ah, pardon me!  Almost  always,"  she adds, as if she were correcting an innocent mistake.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "A lot of us wanted to run,"  Elynwena interjects brightly. She has the tone of a stranger in a tavern, interrupting a conversation to add dubiously helpful advice.  "We held a vote, four months ago. I voted in favor- even had a plan worked out to settle in the woods north of Providencia, where Neeson's sister lives. Have you met her?"  she asks, turning to Alder instead of Rhenner.  "Very capable. And such good aim with a bow." 

She sighs.  "But some of the town insisted on staying. And eight threatened to stay behind even if we fled. Two of your brothers and one of your sisters among them,"  she adds to Rhenner.  "I thought about leaving them behind. But I've found I'm much happier when my children are alive rather than dead."  She adds this in a patient voice, as if she were explaining a quaint tribal custom.

 "So we started work on the wall. Some of the townspeople disagreed, and they ran off. Those who were polite enough to tell me first, I arranged safe passage to the Brearshaw Territory. Others just disappeared in the middle of the night. Do you remember the Sullivans? Oh, you were too young. Anyway..."  She scratches her chin.

 "Oh, Martine's wife, too. She fled the morning after he died."  She sighs slowly.  "Quite a shame, I liked her. And her cousin was third in line to be the Archbishop of Cardonne. Perhaps she'll write?"  She looks thoughtful.  "I was surprised she didn't take her children with her, or even tell them where she was going. I certainly would have, with my own children. But,"  she declares in a sing-songy voice,  "it takes all kinds to make a world!"  Elynwena had taken over for a semester as the town schoolteacher, when the previous one had fallen ill. She was not invited to return in the spring.

 "Where were we? Hmmm... no, running isn't part of our plans. You can run if you like, though. We'll see you in another..."  she counts on her fingers.  "Seven years?"  
 

It dawns on Natalia that Elynwena's words are like pudding with caltrops mixed in. They may seem smooth and sweet but the bitterness and pain aren't far away, and in fact are pretty visible if you know where to look. Okay, so Natalia knows nothing about Rhenner's past, but did his mom need to rub in his disappearing every sentence? How could he do that? Anger swells within her.


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt shakes his head.  "There's no goin' back for me. I don't want it to be like that for anyone else."  The matter was settled in his mind as soon as he heard about it. Deal with what's in front of you, after all.

He turns to Elynwena again, curious about some of the things she said.  "Are you sure they left, and weren't taken? Leaving children behind is...hrm. Well, fine, I guess you know what you're talking about. But what about the other villages, why have you stayed so scattered? Walls are good, people are better."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Perhaps ironically enough, Elynwena's interruption disrupts the unpleasant train of thought in Rhenner's mind and the pressure in his chest eases. Instead it is like there is a sharp nail made of guilt that is being thrust in, and his mother is holding the hammer, not even looking while she deals the blows.

 "You are optimistic in your estimation, Mother",  he sighs, sounding most defeated.   Now, just please don't state aloud how long I've really been gone.   He couldn't remember the exact number of years right away, but he knew it was far more than seven.

 "So what is your plan then?",  he asks again, presumably from his mother, though he doesn't dare to look at her. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Oh, we'll get by somehow,"  she says, waving her hand dismissively.  "We always have. Everyone always does, in fact, up until the day they die." 
 "We don't know that the dragon is coming here soon, or ever,"  Alder notes.  "There are many other towns and villages in the region, and it could return to its home..."  
 

 "But keep fighting back here,"  Natalia muses.  "Are...other towns hurt like this, so much, so...often?"  Hang on. She turns to her friends again.  "Hu--allies. You think they fight dragon too? If allied with orcs? Even if they...them, still more allies make better odds. Remember giant fight?"  Ezra had made short work of the giants on the other wall--at least, she assumed the fireballs and lightning bolts were her work. Not to mention that if this town did hide something important....


 Elynwena points at him in a congratulatory fashion.  "I'm sure that's it,"  she replies.  "She must have been kidnapped. And the kidnappers, thoughtful as they are, packed her five sets of clothes and her books. I like you already, Kurt, thinking the best of people like that."  As always, her tone shows no obvious signs of sarcasm.



She sighs thoughtfully.  "A few settlers have joined from other towns... especially those cities that faced the worst raids... but trust runs low in these woods. And when you bring people together, you gain some strength- but you're also a bigger target. The more villages are out there, the more likely the raiders will attack someone else."  She shrugs at the harsh reality.

Then she raises a finger.  "But you can  always  trust family. That's why we adopt them, when we can. Your children, you can always trust to be there when times are difficult."  She glances up at Rhenner as though she's forgotten he was there.  "Ah, pardon me!  Almost  always,"  she adds, as if she were correcting an innocent mistake. 

That's it. Maybe it's what she noticed before, maybe it's the indignation she feels on Rhenner's behalf, maybe it's her own guilt, probably it's all three, but Natalia clenches her fists and snaps out,  Elynwena, just...say what mean!" 
Athedia
Mithril couldn't help but smile at Natalia's comment.   "You have a point Natalia.  It is rather unhelpful to have this humble facade.  Either she wants our help and is using Rhenner's guilt and the rest of your general urge to help everyone that crosses our path, or she is simply having a game at our expense."   She turned toward Elynwena and nodded.   "I must be unused to the ways of elves.  In human culture once you come of age you are independent.  Family is important, but not to the extent your personal kingdom represents.  And with the number of children you appear to have, I doubt one is sorely missed.  He serves his god, as I serve mine.  This calling is higher than family or even life."  She knew she was not being overly diplomatic, but something about the way she was belittling Rhenner rubbed Mithril the wrong way.  She may not be on good terms with the cleric since the expedition to the Underdark but she knew his dedication and courage.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 She sighs thoughtfully.  "A few settlers have joined from other towns... especially those cities that faced the worst raids... but trust runs low in these woods. And when you bring people together, you gain some strength- but you're also a bigger target. The more villages are out there, the more likely the raiders will attack someone else."  She shrugs at the harsh reality.

Then she raises a finger.  "But you can  always  trust family. That's why we adopt them, when we can. Your children, you can always trust to be there when times are difficult."  She glances up at Rhenner as though she's forgotten he was there.  "Ah, pardon me!  Almost  always,"  she adds, as if she were correcting an innocent mistake. 
 

Another merciless nail, hammered right next to the other one.   That, was almost obviously mean,   Rhenner thinks,   She must really be furious with me.  

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 That's it. Maybe it's what she noticed before, maybe it's the indignation she feels on Rhenner's behalf, maybe it's her own guilt, probably it's all three, but Natalia clenches her fists and snaps out,  Elynwena, just...say what mean!"  One hand flies to her mouth the moment the words come out. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril couldn't help but smile at Natalia's comment.   "You have a point Natalia.  It is rather unhelpful to have this humble facade.  Either she wants our help and is using Rhenner's guilt and the rest of your general urge to help everyone that crosses our path, or she is simply having a game at our expense."   She turned toward Elynwena and nodded.   "I must be unused to the ways of elves.  In human culture once you come of age you are independent.  Family is important, but not to the extent your personal kingdom represents.  And with the number of children you appear to have, I doubt one is sorely missed.  He serves his god, as I serve mine.  This calling is higher than family or even life."  She knew she was not being overly diplomatic, but something about the way she was belittling Rhenner rubbed Mithril the wrong way.  She may not be on good terms with the cleric since the expedition to the Underdark but she knew his dedication and courage. 
 

Rhenner looks at the two in astonishment. Were they... defending him? They didn't have anything to do with this matter. Nor did they know anything about the reasons of his absence.   Maybe, that's not the point,   thought a part of him that hadn't surfaced in a long time.  "..."  He meant to say something but was at a loss for words again.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Another merciless nail, hammered right next to the other one.   That, was almost obviously mean,   Rhenner thinks,   She must really be furious with me.  

Rhenner looks at the two in astonishment. Were they... defending him? They didn't have anything to do with this matter. Nor did they know anything about the reasons of his absence.   Maybe, that's not the point,   thought a part of him that hadn't surfaced in a long time.  "..."  He meant to say something but was at a loss for words again. 
 

This isn't right, he doesn't deserve this. And besides, maybe he had to leave too. If this is what his mom is like...meanness hidden beneath smoothness is as bad as resentment simmering beneath attempts to care.

Natalia's hand on Rhenner tightens, and her other hand clenches into a fist so hard the nails leave marks.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril couldn't help but smile at Natalia's comment.   "You have a point Natalia.  It is rather unhelpful to have this humble facade.  Either she wants our help and is using Rhenner's guilt and the rest of your general urge to help everyone that crosses our path, or she is simply having a game at our expense."   She turned toward Elynwena and nodded.   "I must be unused to the ways of elves.  In human culture once you come of age you are independent.  Family is important, but not to the extent your personal kingdom represents.  And with the number of children you appear to have, I doubt one is sorely missed.  He serves his god, as I serve mine.  This calling is higher than family or even life."  She knew she was not being overly diplomatic, but something about the way she was belittling Rhenner rubbed Mithril the wrong way.  She may not be on good terms with the cleric since the expedition to the Underdark but she knew his dedication and courage. 
 

Natalia nods, her eyes hardening.  "And sometimes, need leave,"  she mutters to herself. The simmering anger boils over, drowning the sense of caution shouting at her to be circumspect and cautions.  "Enough. Mithril right too. Don't know why left, but...not right to treat this way! Even if black sheep, no reason to shear!"  She turns slightly, now addressing everyone, her own anger keeping her going.  "And know you need help, so just say why, instead...of guilt trip, twisting smoothness! horde comes back, and back, stronger each time. Mithril, Kurt, Sh...Remember Linwood? Fought horde once, beat once, and done! But here, back, they chase, they...need something! We...can't help unless know  why  horde attacks here, which...you know, Elynwena." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 This isn't right, he doesn't deserve this. And besides, maybe he had to leave too. If this is what his mom is like...meanness hidden beneath smoothness is as bad as resentment simmering beneath attempts to care.

Natalia's hand on Rhenner tightens, and her other hand clenches into a fist so hard the nails leave marks.



Natalia nods, her eyes hardening.  "And sometimes, need leave,"  she mutters to herself. The simmering anger boils over, drowning the sense of caution shouting at her to be circumspect and cautions.  "Enough. Mithril right too. Don't know why left, but...not right to treat this way! Even if black sheep, no reason to shear!"  She turns slightly, now addressing everyone, her own anger keeping her going.  "And know you need help, so just say why, instead...of guilt trip, twisting smoothness! horde comes back, and back, stronger each time. Mithril, Kurt, Sh...Remember Linwood? Fought horde once, beat once, and done! But here, back, they chase, they...need something! We...can't help unless know  why  horde attacks here, which...you know, Elynwena."  
 

 "Natalia...",  Rhenner places a hand on his friend's shoulder in an attempt to placate her and says in a low voice,  " Thank you. Please, try to keep your calm. Though trust me I know how difficult it can sometimes be."   He smiles a little and subtly nods towards his mother.

The disorder in his mind is like a loud marketplace, where many matters scream for attention, waving plaques made of memories to support their claim. To regain some composure, he scoops from among them one to focus on, one that he can actually deal with right now.  "I... appreciate what you've said for me",  Rhenner says to Natalia and Mithril,  "I truly wish I deserved it. However",  he coughs to clear his throat and turns to face his mother and brother,  "while I did have a reason to leave, a calling you could call it, which I  don't  regret, I..."  His voice is playing tricks with him today, and it is an effort to drag it back.  "I have no true reason to why I never returned, until now. I wish I could even say  this  was intentional, but to tell the truth, I had to teleport so fast I had no time to think where I was moving us."  He rubs his forehead and seeks to gather his thoughts before looking up again.  "All I can say, is that it was never my  intention  to leave for good, even if I can now only give you excuses for why I never visited, not even at times... when I really should have. Some of those excuses are better, others less so. Ultimately, they mean nothing."  He lets out a deep sigh.  "You deserve an apology, and I hope you can believe me when I say I... am sorry." 
 "The past couple of years, during which I didn't even write",  Natalia can feel how Rhenner's hold on his shoulder tightens,  "Please believe that was not for idle reasons. Whether they were good ones, I have not the wisdom to say. But I suspect they don't excuse me for not even sending a single word of myself. That was inconsiderate, and I apologise for that as well."  After that, he finally quiets. Unsure, if he should say something more, or if he already had spoken too much.

 
 Spoiler 
Sigh, I spent waay too long on this. Sometimes when Rhenner opens his mouth, he doesn't know how to stop talking.. I hope it's not too bad here. -_-'
 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Natalia...",  Rhenner places a hand on his friend's shoulder in an attempt to placate her and says in a low voice,  " Thank you. Please, try to keep your calm. Though trust me I know how difficult it can sometimes be."   He smiles a little and subtly nods towards his mother.

The disorder in his mind is like a loud marketplace, where many matters scream for attention, waving plaques made of memories to support their claim. To regain some composure, he scoops from among them one to focus on, one that he can actually deal with right now.  "I... appreciate what you've said for me",  Rhenner says to Natalia and Mithril,  "I truly wish I deserved it. However",  he coughs to clear his throat and turns to face his mother and brother,  "while I did have a reason to leave, a calling you could call it, which I  don't  regret, I..."  His voice is playing tricks with him today, and it is an effort to drag it back.  "I have no true reason to why I never returned, until now. I wish I could even say  this  was intentional, but to tell the truth, I had to teleport so fast I had no time to think where I was moving us."  He rubs his forehead and seeks to gather his thoughts before looking up again.  "All I can say, is that it was never my  intention  to leave for good, even if I can now only give you excuses for why I never visited, not even at times... when I really should have. Some of those excuses are better, others less so. Ultimately, they mean nothing."  He lets out a deep sigh.  "You deserve an apology, and I hope you can believe me when I say I... am sorry." 
 "The past couple of years, during which I didn't even write",  Natalia can feel how Rhenner's hold on his shoulder tightens,  "Please believe that was not for idle reasons. Whether they were good ones, I have not the wisdom to say. But I suspect they don't excuse me for not even sending a single word of myself. That was inconsiderate, and I apologise for that as well."  After that, he finally quiets. Unsure, if he should say something more, or if he already had spoken too much. 
 

Elynwena tilts her head to the side.  "Thank you, Rhenner,"  she replies.  "That couldn't have been easy."  She taps her cheek thoughtfully.  "Indeed, I know that for a fact... whatever natural gifts your father and I gave you, straightforwardness was probably not among them." 

She frowns as she continues to think.  "This...  calling  you and your friends speak of... what exactly was it?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Anyone can answer.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia looks at Rhenner's hand on her shoulder and replies with a short nod. She probably shouldn't have lost her cool like that, though he still needed defending in her mind. No matter what he thinks.

Rhenner's grip on her shoulder tightens with every word he says, and Natalia doesn't need to look at his face to know how hard this must be for him, the guilt that he must feel. She reaches up and pats his wrist as he speaks, and only when he falls silent and his mother seemingly accepts his apology does she allow herself to react.

She's not quite sure who Elynwena is referring to in her question though, so she keeps silent for the time being.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elynwena tilts her head to the side.  "Thank you, Rhenner,"  she replies.  "That couldn't have been easy."  She taps her cheek thoughtfully.  "Indeed, I know that for a fact... whatever natural gifts your father and I gave you, straightforwardness was probably not among them."  
 

 You  are telling  me?!  It takes a lot of self-control from Rhenner not to blurt that outloud. But, was she a little less angry now? Or was that just wishful thinking on his part? Unsure of what to make of it, or how to feel, he tries to put his mind on other things. He lets go of Natalia's shoulder, realizing how tight he was gripping it.


 She frowns as she continues to think.  "This...  calling  you and your friends speak of... what exactly was it?"  

Rhenner crosses his arms, looking mildly embarrased.  "That... perhaps it is wrong to speak of a single strong calling, except something has always kept me on the road. Back when I left, it was merely the desire to see the world. I could try to claim that I had a greater a wish to serve Fharlanghn, or to help people I would meet as a healer, but I doubt I truly had the devotion when I was young",  Rhenner touches his holy symbol,  "Later though, I thought I had found a purpose, a cause to dedicate my life to. I believed so for years",  a bitter smile raises to his lips,  "Well, turned out I'd been wrong. But I found a new purpose then, less pleasant, but more important in the long run. I think. And just some days ago, my calling has taken a new form again."  He looks uncertain for a passing moment, not sure how much he can say.  "To help in seeking an end to this war",  he finally settles on.

 
 Spoiler 
I suspect that last sentence is grammatically wrong somehow, how to put it better?
 
Cavelcade
Kurt tenses a bit as Rhennar reaches the crux of the issue of just what this "calling" they've all experienced is - he looks closely at Mithril as well, watching her reaction with his hands resting gently by his side, thumbs hooked over his belt behind his back. He quickly mutters a soft word of dwarven half under his breath, shutting his his eyes for a moment before turning back to matters at hand, focusing again on the idea of what's happening here and how to deal with it.

 "If you have the strength to resist evil, it's important to use it. If you can gain that strength by bringing in more people...hm. Well, maybe things aren't as bad as they seem but a bit of distrust is better than a slow whittling or a sudden storm. If you're determined to stay here, you'll need more strength. And our task can't spare your son, or us, for long."  He says it as if each item on this list is a clear axiom of the world they live in, as straightforward as asserting the sky to be blue or iron to be hard.
Admiral
Elynwena's gaze stays on Rhenner as he speaks, then to Kurt, then flicks back to Natalia and finally Mithril.

 "You do seem to have places to be,"  she states politely.  " Two  places, if I heard Mithril correctly. So very, very busy." 
 "'Seeking an end to this war.' What might you be up to?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elynwena's gaze stays on Rhenner as he speaks, then to Kurt, then flicks back to Natalia and finally Mithril.

 "You do seem to have places to be,"  she states politely.  " Two  places, if I heard Mithril correctly. So very, very busy." 
 "'Seeking an end to this war.' What might you be up to?"  
 

Natalia's gaze flocks back and forth between her friends. How much is safe to tell? Especially since she's not protected.

 "Horde...guided by master, seeks more than smashing, flames. Looking to stop, and looking for...master."  she looks up, now her gaze pleading.  Elynwena, horde here to do...more than burn. Please, for true help, think...we need know why." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elynwena's gaze stays on Rhenner as he speaks, then to Kurt, then flicks back to Natalia and finally Mithril.

 "You do seem to have places to be,"  she states politely.  " Two  places, if I heard Mithril correctly. So very, very busy." 
 "'Seeking an end to this war.' What might you be up to?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia's gaze flocks back and forth between her friends. How much is safe to tell? Especially since she's not protected.

 "Horde...guided by master, seeks more than smashing, flames. Looking to stop, and looking for...master."  she looks up, now her gaze pleading.  Elynwena, horde here to do...more than burn. Please, for true help, think...we need know why."  
 

Mithril's mouth was twisted in thought as both Rhenner and Kurt spoke.  She wasn't comfortable with this much information being shared with someone not trusted by Hulberg, even if it was the mother of one of her companions.  As Natalia spoke, Mithril's brow creased further.   "Natalia.  That's enough.  Elynwena, you are nosy and our purpose is veiled for a reason.  You know more than might be safe for anyone at the moment.  I suggest you use this time to be nice to your son, because where we go?  We may not come back." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril's mouth was twisted in thought as both Rhenner and Kurt spoke.  She wasn't comfortable with this much information being shared with someone not trusted by Hulberg, even if it was the mother of one of her companions.  As Natalia spoke, Mithril's brow creased further.   "Natalia.  That's enough.  Elynwena, you are nosy and our purpose is veiled for a reason.  You know more than might be safe for anyone at the moment.  I suggest you use this time to be nice to your son, because where we go?  We may not come back."  
 

a shadow falls over Natalia's face, but she does shut up.  "Sorry,"  she whispers.  Hard enough, choosing words. Harder to choose twice. But...she know why horde attacks here, again and again. Think...we need know why too, if dragons. And here."  here, of course, being the reason they teleported back in the first place. And possibly why hoodsie teleported here weeks ago.
Cavelcade
After a moment where his expression reveals surprise, he nods slowly.  "Mithril is right. Talking about this endangers more than just us..."  He sighs at his own words, shaking his head at himself.  "Forget I said anything, if you can. Maybe we shouldn't even be here at all. But if the giants are here..." 
Admiral
Elynwena watches the party as they close ranks, glancing over each of them in turn. She may simply be puzzled by their distrust, or she may be looking for weaknesses.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril's mouth was twisted in thought as both Rhenner and Kurt spoke.  She wasn't comfortable with this much information being shared with someone not trusted by Hulberg, even if it was the mother of one of her companions.  As Natalia spoke, Mithril's brow creased further.   "Natalia.  That's enough.  Elynwena, you are nosy and our purpose is veiled for a reason.  You know more than might be safe for anyone at the moment.  I suggest you use this time to be nice to your son, because where we go?  We may not come back."  
 

 "You're quite right, Mithril,"  she replies pleasantly.  "I don't know how long I have either, in this most dangerous of times. Perhaps, I could ask for a moment alone with my son?"  Her eyes go back to Rhenner.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elynwena watches the party as they close ranks, glancing over each of them in turn. She may simply be puzzled by their distrust, or she may be looking for weaknesses.



 "You're quite right, Mithril,"  she replies pleasantly.  "I don't know how long I have either, in this most dangerous of times. Perhaps, I could ask for a moment alone with my son?"  Her eyes go back to Rhenner. 
 

 "...I can't tell you anything that hasn't already been said, Mother",  Rhenner says, looking mildly apologetic, but also more stern than during the whole conversation up to now,  "This is not a matter I can share with others, not even family. But please understand it is not because of spite, or a wish to keep things from you. This knowledge holds dangers, and I don't want you involved in it. You have enough troubles of your own as is."

"If it's something else you want to talk about however, I'm more than happy to do so",  he adds, not sure of what sort of answer he is hoping for.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "...I can't tell you anything that hasn't already been said, Mother",  Rhenner says, looking mildly apologetic, but also more stern than during the whole conversation up to now,  "This is not a matter I can share with others, not even family. But please understand it is not because of spite, or a wish to keep things from you. This knowledge holds dangers, and I don't want you involved in it. You have enough troubles of your own as is."

"If it's something else you want to talk about however, I'm more than happy to do so",  he adds, not sure of what sort of answer he is hoping for. 
 

 "Always suspicious,"  Elynwena sighs.  "Do you wonder why people don't trust you, if you don't trust them?"  She gives the appearance of asking for her own curiosity.

 "Call it... making up for lost time. If you were sincere in what you said, that is." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Always suspicious,"  Elynwena sighs.  "Do you wonder why people don't trust you, if you don't trust them?"  She gives the appearance of asking for her own curiosity.

 "Call it... making up for lost time. If you were sincere in what you said, that is."  
 

 "I was."  Wordswords... 
Admiral
 "Then if you don't mind..."  She smiles at Natalia, Mithril, Kurt and Alder and inclines her head.
Athedia
Mithril went toward the door waiting for Alder to show her where to go.
CoffeeIncluded
Natali nods and makes her way to the door. She's quiet for the moment, her mind turned inward.
Cavelcade
Kurt leaves with a troubled expression on his face, though not at being asked to leave. Something else said in there is making his forehead crease like that.
Admiral
The rest of the party departs, Alder shutting the door behind them. If the elder son has any resentment about his mother's request, he doesn't show it. Rhenner finds himself alone in the room with his mother, who looks him up and down across her inflated stomach.

 "I used to think you had trouble trusting people,"  she observes drily.  "After- well, after what happened when you were twelve..."  she trails off diplomatically.  "You didn't trust me, and you didn't trust your father. Your brothers-"  she scoffs a bit. It seems a bit of her mask has been dropped now that the two of them are alone- a rare but not unprecedented occurrence. (Though part of him has always wondered whether this, too, was a calculated move to gain his trust).

 "But you grew older, and you seemed to have no trouble placing your trust in the Church. And so much the better for you."  She smiles slightly, seeming genuinely proud.  "But now you say... what was it... it 'turned out you'd been wrong.'" 
 "So what is it about those three you travel with, that makes you trust them? Are they really so deserving of it? So much more so than I am?" 
CWater
 "I have found that trust is best placed... partially",  Rhenner replies, the cynic in charge of the voice controls again,  "One can trust people deeply in one matter, and not much at all in another. Complete trust I put to no one, not even my god, which I suppose makes me a lousy priest, though He does not seem to mind."  The cleric taps his holy symbol contemplatively.  "It... has been long since I last saw you, or anyone I might call family, though I do realize this is only my own fault."  He looks away.
CoffeeIncluded
Once they're outside, Natalia looks at her friends. Now that it's done, what just happened seems slightly surreal.

 "So...now what? Didn't think Rhenner..."  she trails off, not really sure how to put her thoughts into words. So until she can, Natalia lowers her voice so alder can't hear.  "Horde fights here for reason. Think she knows why. Might...be...like our search."  
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I have found that trust is best placed... partially",  Rhenner replies, the cynic in charge of the voice controls again,  "One can trust people deeply in one matter, and not much at all in another. Complete trust I put to no one, not even my god, which I suppose makes me a lousy priest, though He does not seem to mind."  The cleric taps his holy symbol contemplatively.  "It... has been long since I last saw you, or anyone I might call family, though I do realize this is only my own fault."  He looks away. 
 

 "Partial trust..."  the elven matriarch muses.  "Well said. Partial trust is so much harder than complete trust. But so very necessary, for a family to survive..." 
 "Have you ever thought of having children yourself?"  she asks Rhenner suddenly, looking up.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Partial trust..."  the elven matriarch muses.  "Well said. Partial trust is so much harder than complete trust. But so very necessary, for a family to survive..." 
 "Have you ever thought of having children yourself?"  she asks Rhenner suddenly, looking up. 
 

Rhenner raises an eyebrow at the question.  "I haven't really to be honest",  he replies,  "Though I suppose my wandering way of life would be ill suited for raising children." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner raises an eyebrow at the question.  "I haven't really to be honest",  he replies,  "Though I suppose my wandering way of life would be ill suited for raising children."  
 

 "Perhaps..."  she replies.  "It's unfortunate, you'd likely find it a learning experience. I'm sure you've had many exciting adventures in your travels, especially with that charming god you follow, but you'd be surprised the challenges that raising a family can present."  She scratches her head.  "For instance, imagine you were deciding whether to trust one of your children with something, as well as trusting his choice in comrades. But your child has not, historically, given you much reason to trust him. How would you handle it, with all your wisdom?"  She gives every appearance of speaking entirely in hypotheticals.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Perhaps..."  she replies.  "It's unfortunate, you'd likely find it a learning experience. I'm sure you've had many exciting adventures in your travels, especially with that charming god you follow, but you'd be surprised the challenges that raising a family can present."  She scratches her head.  "For instance, imagine you were deciding whether to trust one of your children with something, as well as trusting his choice in comrades. But your child has not, historically, given you much reason to trust him. How would you handle it, with all your wisdom?"  She gives every appearance of speaking entirely in hypotheticals. 
 

Rhenner smiles wryly.   Fine, lets play this game then. 

"I would say that depends on what he needs to be trusted with now, in comparison to those things he has not been up to before. Partial trust can also be employed when dealing with family, it can even be necessary. There was something said in this room earlier, that family could always be trusted. Whether this was as an honest opinion, or the phrase happened to be convenient for some other reason, I can't say."  He looks out of the window.  "Anyway, after travelling the continent and meeting many people and heard their tales and whatnot, I dare to claim this is no absolute truth, but a pleasant saying those who are either fortunate or foolish like to say. For there are many for whom it would be very stupid to think so. However,"  he turns back to Elynwena,  "I have also come to believe that for even greater a number, it is  not  a lie. It would seem, that most often people care deeply for those they have grown up with, to whom they apply this word 'family' to, and would go to great lengths to keep them safe.  The half-elf shrugs.  "What one's own family is like can't unfortunately be known for sure in advance, before there comes a time when it is tested. Still... I think not believing in them can cause damage already in itself."   He looks slightly sorry again.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Once they're outside, Natalia looks at her friends. Now that it's done, what just happened seems slightly surreal.

 "So...now what? Didn't think Rhenner..."  she trails off, not really sure how to put her thoughts into words. So until she can, Natalia lowers her voice so alder can't hear.  "Horde fights here for reason. Think she knows why. Might...be...like our search."   
 

Mithril didn't bother to lower her voice.   "Oh, she knows something.  But she isn't stupid, trusting strangers is a dangerous hobby.  I doubt she fully trusts her own children, given that at least one of them disappeared for years." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril didn't bother to lower her voice.   "Oh, she knows something.  But she isn't stupid, trusting strangers is a dangerous hobby.  I doubt she fully trusts her own children, given that at least one of them disappeared for years."  
 

Natalia nods. She keeps her voice down though.  "Speaking of children..."  She can't hold it in anymore. Natalia points back at the door, spreads her hands as if indicating every elf in this room, this town.  " Why?"  
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner smiles wryly.   Fine, lets play this game then. 

"I would say that depends on what he needs to be trusted with now, in comparison to those things he has not been up to before. Partial trust can also be employed when dealing with family, it can even be necessary. There was something said in this room earlier, that family could always be trusted. Whether this was as an honest opinion, or the phrase happened to be convenient for some other reason, I can't say."  
 

 "I believe what was said,"  she replies with a wry smile to match,  "was ' almost  always.'" 

 He looks out of the window.  "Anyway, after travelling the continent and meeting many people and heard their tales and whatnot, I dare to claim this is no absolute truth, but a pleasant saying those who are either fortunate or foolish like to say. For there are many for whom it would be very stupid to think so. However,"  he turns back to Elynwena,  "I have also come to believe that for even greater a number, it is  not  a lie. It would seem, that most often people care deeply for those they have grown up with, to whom they apply this word 'family' to, and would go to great lengths to keep them safe.  The half-elf shrugs.  "What one's own family is like can't unfortunately be known for sure in advance, before there comes a time when it is tested. Still... I think not believing in them can cause damage already in itself."   He looks slightly sorry again. 

Elynwena nods very slowly.  "Great lengths, indeed... quite wise, Rhenner. That god you follow has done well for you." 

She scratches her cheek before smiling.  "How helpful it must be, to have an all seeing god on your side. The great frustration of this war is that we don't even know what we're fighting about!"  she laughs.  "If only I had been a cleric. I were wondering what the next step would be, someone would just tell me. Here-"  she continues, waving her hand to suggest concocting a hypothetical.  "Perhaps last week, I'd see an angel- no, a bit fanciful. Perhaps six days ago I'd hear... a whisper, in my ear, telling me how to stop the raids. It could just me, 'If you want the orcs and giants to stop attacking, just ask the Provost at the Institute of Llenovia, for she knows what they are after.'"  She shrugs.  "Something like that. Wouldn't that be helpful?" 

She looks at him as if expecting him to answer before breaking into another laugh.  "Ah, but I would probably just think I was going mad. So perhaps I'd check with the mayors of Tenvull and Orden, and they'd heard the same exact thing. How useful that would be."  She waves her hand.  "But I'm just having a little fun, Rhenner. I know your god doesn't whisper in your ear."  She smiles pleasantly.  "So then where could such a voice ever come from?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Llenovia is an elven city in the center of Woodhelm, about twenty five miles from here- the third largest in Woodhelm, after Cardonne and another port city. Tenvull and Orden are nearby villages.
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia nods. She keeps her voice down though.  "Speaking of children..."  She can't hold it in anymore. Natalia points back at the door, spreads her hands as if indicating every elf in this room, this town.  " Why?"   
 

 "And who might you all be?"  comes a voice from the stairs. Another person has appeared on the landing, a tall and muscular elf, wearing a brown set of robes- appearing perhaps a few years older than Rhenner. The insignia of the Firm marks his hand.

 "Ah,"  says Alder, nodding his head in greeting and turning to the party.  "This is Lander, my stepbrother. Lander, these are friends of Rhenner- you may remember him, if your memory reaches  very  far. These are Kurt, Mithril, and Natalia- Natalia was just bemoaning the fact that my siblings and I exist." 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia sticks out a hand in greeting, but it lowers at his second comment. Not that she wasn't expecting something like it, but still.  "Hey!"  she says, hurt.  "Wasn't bemoaning." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia sticks out a hand in greeting, but it lowers at his second comment. Not that she wasn't expecting something like it, but still.  "Hey!"  she says, hurt.  "Wasn't bemoaning."  
 

 "Ah, pardon me,"  Alder replies slyly.  "You were merely  surprised.  Isn't it funny how no one is surprised by their own existence? They are only surprised, and often  concerned , when life happens to others." 

Lander rolls his eyes good-naturedly at Alder's comments.  "Don't mind him,"  he adds.  "I myself don't owe my existence to Elynwena, if that's what you mean. Though I do owe my home to her." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Ah, pardon me,"  Alder replies slyly.  "You were merely  surprised.  Isn't it funny how no one is surprised by their own existence? They are only surprised, and often  concerned , when life happens to others."  
 

Natalia opens her mouth to respond, but after a moment closes it again. It can be hard enough responding to Rhenner sometimes as it is.


 Lander rolls his eyes good-naturedly at Alder's comments.  "Don't mind him,"  he adds.  "I myself don't owe my existence to Elynwena, if that's what you mean. Though I do owe my home to her."  

 "Figured, if Rhenner's master in...blade tongue.  Guess wondering why gather children for Elynwena, because my family opposite. Just...me, my brother."  and what was that about rhenners brother? she wants to explain but can't and can't without seeming rude, so instead Natalia rubs the back of her neck. And then there's the other thing, but that might be even ruder. So.

 "You a Mage?"  she asks, awkwardly, pointing at his robes. But he has the mark of the Firm, not the Institute. Another pause.  "You built wall?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "I believe what was said,"  she replies with a wry smile to match,  "was ' almost  always.'" 



Elynwena nods very slowly.  "Great lengths, indeed... quite wise, Rhenner. That god you follow has done well for you." 

She scratches her cheek before smiling.  "How helpful it must be, to have an all seeing god on your side. The great frustration of this war is that we don't even know what we're fighting about!"  she laughs.  "If only I had been a cleric. I were wondering what the next step would be, someone would just tell me. Here-"  she continues, waving her hand to suggest concocting a hypothetical.  "Perhaps last week, I'd see an angel- no, a bit fanciful. Perhaps six days ago I'd hear... a whisper, in my ear, telling me how to stop the raids. It could just me, 'If you want the orcs and giants to stop attacking, just ask the Provost at the Institute of Llenovia, for she knows what they are after.'"  She shrugs.  "Something like that. Wouldn't that be helpful?" 

She looks at him as if expecting him to answer before breaking into another laugh.  "Ah, but I would probably just think I was going mad. So perhaps I'd check with the mayors of Tenvull and Orden, and they'd heard the same exact thing. How useful that would be."  She waves her hand.  "But I'm just having a little fun, Rhenner. I know your god doesn't whisper in your ear."  She smiles pleasantly.  "So then where could such a voice ever come from?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Llenovia is an elven city in the center of Woodhelm, about twenty five miles from here- the third largest in Woodhelm, after Cardonne and another port city. Tenvull and Orden are nearby villages.
 
 
 

The shock is painfully obvious on Rhenner's face and he struggles to reply.  "...Where... indeed."  His mouth feels dry.  "And the problem with such voices... would be that one can never know what... they are truly after..."  His voice trails away and he takes a few steps to the side, to be able to lean slightly on the wall. He finds it difficult to look at his mother and his gaze wanders randomly. He has an odd sensation, as if he was not really present in the room anymore.


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Ah, pardon me,"  Alder replies slyly.  "You were merely  surprised.  Isn't it funny how no one is surprised by their own existence? They are only surprised, and often  concerned , when life happens to others." 

Lander rolls his eyes good-naturedly at Alder's comments.  "Don't mind him,"  he adds.  "I myself don't owe my existence to Elynwena, if that's what you mean. Though I do owe my home to her."  
 

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Oh! Lander was adopted? I had thought he was one of the half-sibling.

...Can we draw a chart of the family? I think it would useful for me.😛
 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The shock is painfully obvious on Rhenner's face and he struggles to reply.  "...Where... indeed."  His mouth feels dry.  "And the problem with such voices... would be that one can never know what... they are truly after..."  His voice trails away and he takes a few steps to the side, to be able to lean slightly on the wall. He finds it difficult to look at his mother and his gaze wanders randomly. He has an odd sensation, as if he was not really present in the room anymore. 
 

 "So again..."  his mother finishes,  "it all comes down to trust."  She seems casual enough, but Rhenner can tell her eyes were focused intently on his reaction, which did not go unnoticed.

 "What would you do, if you heard such a thing? Give it what it wants, if it is in your power? Be it a god or a demon, that may be the wisest choice."  She shrugs.  "Would you tell anyone, trust that they may have the power to use such knowledge better than you could?" 

  
 Spoiler: OOC 
Oh! Lander was adopted? I had thought he was one of the half-sibling.

...Can we draw a chart of the family? I think it would useful for me.😛
 
 

 
 Spoiler 

Sorry to lead to confusion! As said in the first post he was mentioned in, Lander is an elven stepbrother, not a half-brother- an (already born) son of the elf Elynwena married.

I know, too many siblings!! I'll try to get a chart up!
 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Figured, if Rhenner's master in...blade tongue.  Guess wondering why gather children for Elynwena, because my family opposite. Just...me, my brother."  and what was that about rhenners brother? she wants to explain but can't and can't without seeming rude, so instead Natalia rubs the back of her neck. And then there's the other thing, but that might be even ruder. So.  
 

 "Most people can be expected to mourn a lost sibling,"  Alder observes drily.  "Why don't we equally mourn those who never existed? If you truly love your children, isn't it logical to want more?"  Natalioa still can't tell if he's sincere or making fun of her.  "And the whole world's just full of children,"  Alder stretches out his arms,  "if you know where to look." 

  "You a Mage?"  she asks, awkwardly, pointing at his robes. But he has the mark of the Firm, not the Institute. Another pause.  "You built wall?"  

 "That's right,"  Lander replies, stretching as he stands.  "I was a stonemason in Cardonne, for twenty years. Neeson- that's my husband- was the real brains of this operation, though; he's an architect. And Alder can always be counted on to sit back, drink berrywine, and tell us we're doing it wrong." 
 
 Spoiler 

Sorry, didn't mean to give the wrong impression. I imagine robes as something you'd see in a fantasy setting, not just on mages. But I'm not very knowledgeable about fashion.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Most people can be expected to mourn a lost sibling,"  Alder observes drily.  "Why don't we equally mourn those who never existed? If you truly love your children, isn't it logical to want more?"  Natalioa still can't tell if he's sincere or making fun of her.  "And the whole world's just full of children,"  Alder stretches out his arms,  "if you know where to look."  
 

That one comment hurt, a little barb in Natalia's chest that Alder probably didn't even know he put there.  "And if can't care for children there?"  she asks, a little sharper than she should.


  "That's right,"  Lander replies, stretching as he stands.  "I was a stonemason in Cardonne, for twenty years. Neeson- that's my husband- was the real brains of this operation, though; he's an architect. And Alder can always be counted on to sit back, drink berrywine, and tell us we're doing it wrong." 
 
 Spoiler 

Sorry, didn't mean to give the wrong impression. I imagine robes as something you'd see in a fantasy setting, not just on mages. But I'm not very knowledgeable about fashion.
 
 

She saw part of the palisade when they teleported, and she wants to take a closer look, maybe help. She needs to work on something, set her mind to a problem she knows and knows how to solve. Natalia opens her mouth, starts to say,  "Can I..."  and then keeps it open. Rhenner said it, and he never commented, but to have Lander himself say it too...

 "You said husband,"  she says, carefully.  "so you his husband too? And means same thing as humans?" 
 
 Spoiler 
oh, thanks for explaining!

I hope this post was ok. I have to go back to class and I have my first quiz in an hour I'm not ready.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "So again..."  his mother finishes,  "it all comes down to trust."  She seems casual enough, but Rhenner can tell her eyes were focused intently on his reaction, which did not go unnoticed.

 "What would you do, if you heard such a thing? Give it what it wants, if it is in your power? Be it a god or a demon, that may be the wisest choice."  She shrugs.  "Would you tell anyone, trust that they may have the power to use such knowledge better than you could?"  
 

 "I... it's..."  The words kept running away from him.  "I... would not",  he finally manages,  "not do as it says. But I'm not good at taking orders... from anyone these days. Even if it is to their benefit, in short term anyway, it does sound like the one hearing voices is being used. And they wouldn't even know for what purpose or how. It seems...",  it takes a moment to herd the scattered thoughts together again,  "I seems to me, that it's doubtful such helpful advice would be given just like that, without any gain to the whisperer. And what that might be, is not shared."

"Maybe... I would tell someone",  he replies and starts to rub his forehead with both hands,  "Or, not... I don't know, it depends... There is the risk, of sounding mad."  He's starting to sound less coherent himself.


  
 Spoiler 

Sorry to lead to confusion! As said in the first post he was mentioned in, Lander is an elven stepbrother, not a half-brother- an (already born) son of the elf Elynwena married.

I know, too many siblings!! I'll try to get a chart up!
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Oh, so is he a  younger  brother then?

And yeah, they are truly numerous! Didn't realize this issue when I first thought of the family, though you certainly helped!😉
 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I... it's..."  The words kept running away from him.  "I... would not",  he finally manages,  "not do as it says. But I'm not good at taking orders... from anyone these days. Even if it is to their benefit, in short term anyway, it does sound like the one hearing voices is being used. And they wouldn't even know for what purpose or how. It seems...",  it takes a moment to herd the scattered thoughts together again,  "I seems to me, that it's doubtful such helpful advice would be given just like that, without any gain to the whisperer. And what that might be, is not shared."

"Maybe... I would tell someone",  he replies and starts to rub his forehead with both hands,  "Or, not... I don't know, it depends... There is the risk, of sounding mad."  He's starting to sound less coherent himself. 
 

She raises her hands in a shrug.  "If you were afraid of sounding mad,"  she notes,  "there are always ways to speak of it, without speaking of it. And only to those you think there is a chance of it being helpful." 

She taps her chin.  "Now what was it you said you were up to in Woodhelm?" 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 That one comment hurt, a little barb in Natalia's chest that Alder probably didn't even know he put there.  "And if can't care for children there?"  she asks, a little sharper than she should.  
 

 "Well, you start building walls, and don't stop until you can,"  Alder replies, seeming unconcerned.  "Is this something you're an expert in, now?"  he adds slyly.  "Childcare?" 

 She saw part of the palisade when they teleported, and she wants to take a closer look, maybe help. She needs to work on something, set her mind to a problem she knows and knows how to solve. Natalia opens her mouth, starts to say,  "Can I..."  and then keeps it open. Rhenner said it, and he never commented, but to have Lander himself say it too...

 "You said husband,"  she says, carefully.  "so you his husband too? And means same thing as humans?"  

 "Sure, unless humans started using it differently when I wasn't looking,"  Lander replies.

He gestures over his shoulder.  "If you're interested, you can come take a look at the wall." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Well, you start building walls, and don't stop until you can,"  Alder replies, seeming unconcerned.  "Is this something you're an expert in, now?"  he adds slyly.  "Childcare?" 
He gestures over his shoulder.  "If you're interested, you can come take a look at the wall."  
 

Mithril could help but laugh at the idea of giving Natalia small children.   "No, that would be me.  Natalia would be more likely to hide, especially once the screaming started.  Of course my advantage is that they get rather distracted by simple spells."   She smiled at Natalia and squeezed her shoulder.   "Go explore the wall.  Alder, are their any shrines to the gods nearby?" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril could help but laugh at the idea of giving Natalia small children.   "No, that would be me.  Natalia would be more likely to hide, especially once the screaming started.  Of course my advantage is that they get rather distracted by simple spells."   She smiled at Natalia and squeezed her shoulder.   "Go explore the wall.  Alder, are their any shrines to the gods nearby?"  
 

 "Just the one temple,"  he replies.  "Our chaplain Ilda runs it, she's... what's the word... non-denominational."  He seems unfamiliar with the practice.  "I could show you your way there." 
Athedia
 "I would appreciate that, a moment to pray would be good after the day I have had." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Well, you start building walls, and don't stop until you can,"  Alder replies, seeming unconcerned.  "Is this something you're an expert in, now?"  he adds slyly.  "Childcare?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril could help but laugh at the idea of giving Natalia small children.   "No, that would be me.  Natalia would be more likely to hide, especially once the screaming started.  Of course my advantage is that they get rather distracted by simple spells."  
 

Natalia's not entirely sure what alder means (is he referring to Lander? Unless he knows something she doesn't then she meant unable to care for, not unable to have, and the difference was lost in her Nutspeak) and so she just looks at him until Mithril's comment and shared mental image makes her giggle as well.  "No, I just...make rolling playpen, push to you. Older children better, can hold tools." 

  "Sure, unless humans started using it differently when I wasn't looking,"  Lander replies.

He gestures over his shoulder.  "If you're interested, you can come take a look at the wall."  

A moment of surprise, a pause between heartbeats, and now Natalia can't stop smiling. She didn't think she'd react like this...

Because it's not just...husband means they're married, that someone married them, and that nobody has a problem with it. Which means that she and they...this part of them (it's not all of them, but she can't not like girls almost like she can't not tinker, build, feel comfort at metal gears clicking between her fingers and seeing the course of lightning) matters, that it exists.

and now she can explore this wall too, maybe even get to practice her skills again. Natalia wipes her eyes with the back of her hand.  "I am, want to look. Thank you." 

 She smiled at Natalia and squeezed her shoulder.   "Go explore the wall.  Alder, are their any shrines to the gods nearby?"  

Natalia looks back at mithril and grins.  "thank you. Hope you...find shrine."  She follows alder to the wall.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 She raises her hands in a shrug.  "If you were afraid of sounding mad,"  she notes,  "there are always ways to speak of it, without speaking of it. And only to those you think there is a chance of it being helpful." 

She taps her chin.  "Now what was it you said you were up to in Woodhelm?"  
 

 "To be honest, I am not sure myself. We were to meet some people, but the dragon interfered. Please don't ask me details about them, I can't really speak about it. But I don't yet know what we are to do next, I need to discuss it with the others. 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I would appreciate that, a moment to pray would be good after the day I have had."  
 

Alder nods and leads Mithril outside, where he points out a small stone temple a few hundred yards away. As she walks towards it, she passes some of the other villagers-  some elven, some human, and many mixed- who regard her with mild curiosity.

Mithril enters the temple to find it consists mostly of a single room, empty of any worshippers, with several rows of pews, of a size and layout not dissimilar to the chapel she'd found in Deldon. Instead of stone statues, however, the room is lined with about thirty oil paintings, each depicting one of the gods. The paintings in the collection are of vastly different styles. A depiction of Ehlonna in the woods is soft and impressionistic, while one of Thor is harsh and brazen, and several are so abstract she cannot understand what god they may represent.

At the end of the pews Mithril sees an entrance to a small room that appears to be a studio. Peering inside, she sees an elven woman seated at a stool, turned away from the door, just starting work on a new canvas. The woman wears a brown robe studded with spots of paint, and on her hand Mithril spots the insignia of the Church.

The elf glances over her shoulder and jumps, good naturedly, at Mithril's appearance.  "Oh, good afternoon."  She raises her eyebrows. Mithril guesses she is likely older than Rhenner's mother, perhaps two centuries.  "I haven't seen any new faces here in a while." 
 
 Spoiler 

Will post about Natalia and Rhenner later, sorry!

Also, Kurt is welcome to join the temple or join Natalia to talk about the city defenses, I could imagine him being interested in either.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Alder nods and leads Mithril outside, where he points out a small stone temple a few hundred yards away. As she walks towards it, she passes some of the other villagers-  some elven, some human, and many mixed- who regard her with mild curiosity.

Mithril enters the temple to find it consists mostly of a single room, empty of any worshippers, with several rows of pews, of a size and layout not dissimilar to the chapel she'd found in Deldon. Instead of stone statues, however, the room is lined with about thirty oil paintings, each depicting one of the gods. The paintings in the collection are of vastly different styles. A depiction of Ehlonna in the woods is soft and impressionistic, while one of Thor is harsh and brazen, and several are so abstract she cannot understand what god they may represent.

At the end of the pews Mithril sees an entrance to a small room that appears to be a studio. Peering inside, she sees an elven woman seated at a stool, turned away from the door, just starting work on a new canvas. The woman wears a brown robe studded with spots of paint, and on her hand Mithril spots the insignia of the Church.

The elf glances over her shoulder and jumps, good naturedly, at Mithril's appearance.  "Oh, good afternoon."  She raises her eyebrows. Mithril guesses she is likely older than Rhenner's mother, perhaps two centuries.  "I haven't seen any new faces here in a while." 
 
 Spoiler 

Will post about Natalia and Rhenner later, sorry!

Also, Kurt is welcome to join the temple or join Natalia to talk about the city defenses, I could imagine him being interested in either.
 
 
 

Mithril peered at the canvas.   "I have seen many.  Though these paintings are new, I am unused to all the gods so close together.  It does seem to be a habit on this continent though."   Realizing she hadn't introduced herself she bowed.   "I am Mithril, follower of Boccob.  Your art is very interesting.  I was hoping to use your temple to pray for a spell, at least while my companions are busy.  There are so many questions Boccob leaves me and rough travel is never suited for contemplation." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 and now she can explore this wall too, maybe even get to practice her skills again. Natalia wipes her eyes with the back of her hand.  "I am, want to look. Thank you." 

Natalia looks back at mithril and grins.  "thank you. Hope you...find shrine."  She follows alder to the wall. 
 

Lander walks with Natalia towards the edge of the town.  "You should know,"  he starts,  "good stone is hard to come by in Woodhelm. When we need it, we have to carve it from a shallow quarry eight miles away and haul it here, and we had to build the wall in a hurry. So we used stone for the guard towers and for the foundation, but the wall itself is made of wood- of which there is plenty available" 

Natalia can see that there are eight stone guard towers around the perimeter of the camp, lined by the 30 foot high wall. Rocks make up the bottom few feet of the wall, with two layers of thick, flat lumber sprouting from it, separated, it appears, by a thin wooden chassis meant to reinforce it.. The walls are buttressed from the inside by additional planks every few yards to keep them from being pushed in. The work is clearly rushed and inelegant- the buttresses are not even sanded- but as Natalia studies the structure she can tell it was crafted with an expert eye for engineering, with the positions well chosen against outside forces. Along the top of the wall are the battlements, with corridors for guards to patrol- these too are ugly but functional.

Lander points to a spot along the wall that looks newer.  "That's where the fire giant broke through,"  he says sadly.  "Didn't take too long to break through both layers, even with us filling him with arrows from above." 

 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "To be honest, I am not sure myself. We were to meet some people, but the dragon interfered. Please don't ask me details about them, I can't really speak about it. But I don't yet know what we are to do next, I need to discuss it with the others.  
 

 "I understand the need for secrecy,"  Elynwena replies in a forgiving tone.  "It's not as if I have shared any secrets with you." 

As Rhenner turns to leave, she leans up and grabs his hand.  "You are always welcome here, son. I hope you know that."  Her eyes are as sincere as he's seen them.

 
 Spoiler 
Once Rhenner leaves, it will be easy to find either Natalia mid-conversation with Lander or Mithril in the chapel.
 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril peered at the canvas.   "I have seen many.  Though these paintings are new, I am unused to all the gods so close together.  It does seem to be a habit on this continent though."   Realizing she hadn't introduced herself she bowed.   "I am Mithril, follower of Boccob.  Your art is very interesting.  I was hoping to use your temple to pray for a spell, at least while my companions are busy.  There are so many questions Boccob leaves me and rough travel is never suited for contemplation."  
 

 "I am Ilda,"  the elf replies, bowing.  "So you follow the Archmage?"  She points to a canvas along the left side of the chapel.  "What do you think?" 

When Mithril first entered she had looked for a painting of Boccob and failed to find one; none resembled the old man with a cane that fit the god's normal depiction. But Mithril takes a closer look at the painting Ilda points out, one that originally appeared to be a simple map of the Eldgar continent seen from above. When she stares long enough at the painting, she sees a pattern emerge, as though from an optical illusion, and realizes the Eye of Boccob is subtly superimposed upon the painting, as though integrated with the terrain.

 "Other gods are suited to more literal representations,"  Ilda continues.  "Take St. Cuthbert- some say he was a mortal once, and his proper representation is that of a hero, taking action within our material plane."  Indeed, Mithril sees a painting of St. Cuthbert, clad in plate mail, swinging a mace in battle.  "But I always felt that Boccob was found nowhere, and everywhere, as though he holds our own world together." 

She taps her forehead as if to put an end to her own self-promotion.  "Of course you may pray here, Mithril. But if you don't mind me asking, are you a cleric yourself, to pray for a spell from your deity?"  Her eyes linger for a fraction of a second on Mithril's guildmark.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "I am Ilda,"  the elf replies, bowing.  "So you follow the Archmage?"  She points to a canvas along the left side of the chapel.  "What do you think?" 

When Mithril first entered she had looked for a painting of Boccob and failed to find one; none resembled the old man with a cane that fit the god's normal depiction. But Mithril takes a closer look at the painting Ilda points out, one that originally appeared to be a simple map of the Eldgar continent seen from above. When she stares long enough at the painting, she sees a pattern emerge, as though from an optical illusion, and realizes the Eye of Boccob is subtly superimposed upon the painting, as though integrated with the terrain.

 "Other gods are suited to more literal representations,"  Ilda continues.  "Take St. Cuthbert- some say he was a mortal once, and his proper representation is that of a hero, taking action within our material plane."  Indeed, Mithril sees a painting of St. Cuthbert, clad in plate mail, swinging a mace in battle.  "But I always felt that Boccob was found nowhere, and everywhere, as though he holds our own world together." 

She taps her forehead as if to put an end to her own self-promotion.  "Of course you may pray here, Mithril. But if you don't mind me asking, are you a cleric yourself, to pray for a spell from your deity?"  Her eyes linger for a fraction of a second on Mithril's guildmark. 
 

Mithril smiled, turning her hand so the mark of the Institute was clearly visible.   "Not quite.  With Boccob to practice magic is as much a prayer as words.  He blurs the lines between the distinct forms of magic.  And I believe I am more useful to him as a wizard, not a cleric."   She examined the map, mind flashing back to the rough scratched our map that marked the web in the underdark and the scratched out section over Woodhelm.   "The image... reminds me of another.  But this is happier, more celebratory.  Though I do agree that Boccob is everywhere and nowhere.  They call him the Uncaring, but maybe there is just to much to care about." 

She glanced at the picture of St. Cuthbert, lip slightly curling in anger.   "He is no true hero.  St. Cuthbert led a dear friend into trap after trap until she finally died still trying to do his will.  She believed until the end and suffering was her reward." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril smiled, turning her hand so the mark of the Institute was clearly visible.   "Not quite.  With Boccob to practice magic is as much a prayer as words.  He blurs the lines between the distinct forms of magic.  And I believe I am more useful to him as a wizard, not a cleric."   She examined the map, mind flashing back to the rough scratched our map that marked the web in the underdark and the scratched out section over Woodhelm.   "The image... reminds me of another.  But this is happier, more celebratory.  Though I do agree that Boccob is everywhere and nowhere.  They call him the Uncaring, but maybe there is just to much to care about." 

She glanced at the picture of St. Cuthbert, lip slightly curling in anger.   "He is no true hero.  St. Cuthbert led a dear friend into trap after trap until she finally died still trying to do his will.  She believed until the end and suffering was her reward."  
 

Ilda watches Mithril's angry expression quietly, and seems to hesitate before offering her reply.  "This dear friend... would she say the same thing, if she were here?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ilda watches Mithril's angry expression quietly, and seems to hesitate before offering her reply.  "This dear friend... would she say the same thing, if she were here?"  
 

Mithril's tone was bitter, but tinged with regret.   "She would still have believed." 

She sat down pulling out Whiskers.   "Boccob has intervened in my life before to guide me or help. It always has a price, but he is there.  But when she needed help the most she was given a cleric who abused his power and discarded her.  He had done it more than once.  St. Cuthbert never punished him for his evils." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Lander walks with Natalia towards the edge of the town.  "You should know,"  he starts,  "good stone is hard to come by in Woodhelm. When we need it, we have to carve it from a shallow quarry eight miles away and haul it here, and we had to build the wall in a hurry. So we used stone for the guard towers and for the foundation, but the wall itself is made of wood- of which there is plenty available" 

Natalia can see that there are eight stone guard towers around the perimeter of the camp, lined by the 30 foot high wall. Rocks make up the bottom few feet of the wall, with two layers of thick, flat lumber sprouting from it, separated, it appears, by a thin wooden chassis meant to reinforce it.. The walls are buttressed from the inside by additional planks every few yards to keep them from being pushed in. The work is clearly rushed and inelegant- the buttresses are not even sanded- but as Natalia studies the structure she can tell it was crafted with an expert eye for engineering, with the positions well chosen against outside forces. Along the top of the wall are the battlements, with corridors for guards to patrol- these too are ugly but functional.

Lander points to a spot along the wall that looks newer.  "That's where the fire giant broke through,"  he says sadly.  "Didn't take too long to break through both layers, even with us filling him with arrows from above."  
 

Natalia nods, and as she investigates the wall it's clear that he did what he could with the stone he had. The wall is extremely well done, and it's clear on her face, the admiring look she gives him. She runs her hand along the wood, even pressing against it, and can't feel any brittle orange, or springy green where green shouldn't be. The stone is cool, and tough, and thick, and feels flat and gray. Its only weaknesses that she can think of right away are the materials, and...active defenses.

 "Lander, did giants break or burn wood?can you...wrap wood in iron, or get stone, steel from firm? Or help from institute? I joined for engineers."  She pauses, pacing around the wall.  "you want traps?" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia nods, and as she investigates the wall it's clear that he did what he could with the stone he had. The wall is extremely well done, and it's clear on her face, the admiring look she gives him. She runs her hand along the wood, even pressing against it, and can't feel any brittle orange, or springy green where green shouldn't be. The stone is cool, and tough, and thick, and feels flat and gray. Its only weaknesses that she can think of right away are the materials, and...active defenses.

 "Lander, did giants break or burn wood?"  
 

 "Both, really. He had a flaming sword- a rather fearsome one. We sold it once we'd captured it,"  he adds sheepishly,  "it wasn't as though any of us could pick it up." 

  can you...wrap wood in iron, or get stone, steel from firm?  

He shakes his head.  "Getting that much stone out here would cost a fortune- much less could we acquire any metal, in that quantity." 

  "Or help from institute? I joined for engineers."  She pauses, pacing around the wall.  "you want traps?"  

 "Traps?"  he asks.  "What kind do you mean?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Note that as I've pointed out before, automated crossbow traps and the like are very ineffective in a siege defense. You'd much rather have the crossbow wielded by a guard, so it can be aimed and reloaded.

That doesn't mean no traps are possible. For example, you could contribute some of your firepowder and lay explosive traps in the woods around the village, although it would take a good amount of powder to be likely to trip people up (there isn't a single route in). You could also build them grenades, though of course that's dangerous for the walls.

Of course I'm open to other trap ideas from anyone OOC.
 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril's tone was bitter, but tinged with regret.   "She would still have believed." 

She sat down pulling out Whiskers.   "Boccob has intervened in my life before to guide me or help. It always has a price, but he is there.  But when she needed help the most she was given a cleric who abused his power and discarded her.  He had done it more than once.  St. Cuthbert never punished him for his evils."  
 

Ilda sighs sadly.  "I don't owe my allegiance to any one god... but if it matters, that does not sound like a cleric of St. Cuthbert to me."  She turns to Mithril.  "How did you lose your friend?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ilda sighs sadly.  "I don't owe my allegiance to any one god... but if it matters, that does not sound like a cleric of St. Cuthbert to me."  She turns to Mithril.  "How did you lose your friend?"  
 

 "She...I...."   Mithril looked down, stroking Whiskers.   "I didn't see.  We were breaking through the siege at Deldon and I had gone ahead.  Once we got to the gates it was chaos, the dwarves rushing out to help get the supplies in while we defended the caravan.  The Horde killed her.  I don't know how or why she didn't flee.  I just remember when they gave her body to the lava with the others who had fallen during the fight." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "She...I...."   Mithril looked down, stroking Whiskers.   "I didn't see.  We were breaking through the siege at Deldon and I had gone ahead.  Once we got to the gates it was chaos, the dwarves rushing out to help get the supplies in while we defended the caravan.  The Horde killed her.  I don't know how or why she didn't flee.  I just remember when they gave her body to the lava with the others who had fallen during the fight."  
 

 "She does not sound foolish, or gullible, to me."  Ilda replies solemnly.  "She sounds brave." 

She steps back.  "My apologies for intruding, Mithril. Of course I should leave you to your prayers." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "I understand the need for secrecy,"  Elynwena replies in a forgiving tone.  "It's not as if I have shared any secrets with you." 

As Rhenner turns to leave, she leans up and grabs his hand.  "You are always welcome here, son. I hope you know that."  Her eyes are as sincere as he's seen them.

 
 Spoiler 
Once Rhenner leaves, it will be easy to find either Natalia mid-conversation with Lander or Mithril in the chapel.
 
 
 

He was not prepared for that.  "I...",  Rhenner stares back at Elynwena, then slowly puts a trembling hand over hers,  "... thank you, Mother ."  The words are almost lost on the way, but he manages to usher them out. He stays there a moment longer, before turning away and making another attempt to the door.

Rhenner steps out of the room, closing the door behind him. For a some time he just stands there, leaning his back to the door for a bit of support. He realizes that his vision is blurry and quickly clears it. There was some important information, crucial even, maybe.. He needed to...

But there is so much noise in his head. So many matters, some logical and emotional, still trying to make themselves heard, all at the same time. So many... The troubled cleric rubs his forehead. He needed some place... some peace... to think... to...

He starts to make his way outside, and does eventually find the right door that gets him there. He has a vague idea of a temple that he sort of remembers and heads toward it, or so he thinks. Due to the state of his mind and the radical changes to the town he ends up walking the wrong way more than once before managing to locate the right building. Natalia and Lander (and anyone else who happens to be around) might notice the confused half-elf wander about, seeming more than a little out of this world.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Both, really. He had a flaming sword- a rather fearsome one. We sold it once we'd captured it,"  he adds sheepishly,  "it wasn't as though any of us could pick it up." 



He shakes his head.  "Getting that much stone out here would cost a fortune- much less could we acquire any metal, in that quantity."  
 

Natalia grimaces as she looks at the wood again. It's strong, and well crafted, but fire giants are stronger.



  "Traps?"  he asks.  "What kind do you mean?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Note that as I've pointed out before, automated crossbow traps and the like are very ineffective in a siege defense. You'd much rather have the crossbow wielded by a guard, so it can be aimed and reloaded.

That doesn't mean no traps are possible. For example, you could contribute some of your firepowder and lay explosive traps in the woods around the village, although it would take a good amount of powder to be likely to trip people up (there isn't a single route in). You could also build them grenades, though of course that's dangerous for the walls.

Of course I'm open to other trap ideas from anyone OOC.
 
 

 "Well,"  she starts, but then falls silent and looks around at the wall again. This time she closes her eyes as she feels and grasps the wood and stone.  "Maybe trap woods, funnel to strongest walls..."  But once they're there? Small pits and crossbows won't work here, not when there are so many attacking, and so much to defend. Flamepowder bombs might work, but she doesn't have enough of it to last and there's no way to get more. Burning oil...no, not against fire giants, not if they're anything like fire dragons. Unless...

 "Flame to frost,"  Natalia mutters to herself. She opens her eyes and turns to Lander.  "Any mages here? Who...cast ice, water magic?"  She doesn't notice Rhenner at that moment.
Cavelcade
Kurt wanders on his own, silent for a time as he examines the village, watching the people as they go about their lives, surrounded by a wooden barricade. Most of his youth was spent underground, so being enclosed in this way is barely different, but these people were raised with the forest as their playground - what must it be like for them to have to stay within the walls. That could explain why some might flee.

He finds himself too troubled by these thoughts, he finally seeks the refuge of the chapel, coming in right as Mithril finishes venting her frustrations to the beleaguered cleric, pausing on the doorstep before steeling his resolve and stepping over the threshold, going over to her side.  "I didn't realise you had so much...anger about her."  His own voice is tight as well, although with what emotion it's hard to identify.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt wanders on his own, silent for a time as he examines the village, watching the people as they go about their lives, surrounded by a wooden barricade. Most of his youth was spent underground, so being enclosed in this way is barely different, but these people were raised with the forest as their playground - what must it be like for them to have to stay within the walls. That could explain why some might flee.

He finds himself too troubled by these thoughts, he finally seeks the refuge of the chapel, coming in right as Mithril finishes venting her frustrations to the beleaguered cleric, pausing on the doorstep before steeling his resolve and stepping over the threshold, going over to her side.  "I didn't realise you had so much...anger about her."  His own voice is tight as well, although with what emotion it's hard to identify. 
 

Mithril looked away from Kurt, tension evident in her face.   "She was gone.  Then you were.  Everytime someone supported me or pulled me back they disappeared.  Why do I get divine help and she didn't? She would have done good, I am just an agent of destruction." 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia looks up, poking her head between two slats of thick lumber. Movement catches the corner of her eye and she whips around to see Rhenner aimlessly wandering about.

 "Rhenner!"  she shouts, waving him down. Why is he wandering about like that? He looks...dazed, almost. Like when you hit an animal in the head with a hammer just before the slaughter.

 
 Spoiler 
because Rhenner needs a break and I really like where Mithril and Kurt's conversation is going. Speaking of which, Mithril expects Natalia to vanish next, doesn't she?
 
Cavelcade
Kurt looks down at his clenched fists with tight lips before he forcibly ejects the air from his lungs, easing the tension from his muscles as he does. He looks over at her.  "Down in the dark...I could have used your help down there. Destruction was just what I needed. I wish I knew a better way of doing it than that..."  He looks over at Mithril, breathing softly.  "Do you think Miriam did?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia looks up, poking her head between two slats of thick lumber. Movement catches the corner of her eye and she whips around to see Rhenner aimlessly wandering about.

 "Rhenner!"  she shouts, waving him down. Why is he wandering about like that? He looks...dazed, almost. Like when you hit an animal in the head with a hammer just before the slaughter.

 
 Spoiler 
because Rhenner needs a break and I really like where Mithril and Kurt's conversation is going. Speaking of which, Mithril expects Natalia to vanish next, doesn't she?
 
 
 

Rhenner stops at the temple door and looks up in their general direction. He stands in place for a moment before starting to walk towards them.  "Studying the wall",  he says, it is more of a statement than a question. His gaze wanders up the wall and to Natalia and back to the wall again, without really focusing on either of them. It stops at Lander though, and is joined by a thoughtful frown. Rhenner studies the elf for a moment, then lets out a resigning sigh,  "I'm almost certain that I should know who you are, and it would probably be better to politely pretend that I do. And yet I'm going to honestly but rudely admit that I don't. I apologise for that and ask if you could first kindly tell me that and then promise not to tell Alder about this. Or mother." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner stops at the temple door and looks up in their general direction. He stands in place for a moment before starting to walk towards them.  "Studying the wall",  he says, it is more of a statement than a question. His gaze wanders up the wall and to Natalia and back to the wall again, without really focusing on either of them. 
 

Natalia nods, running a hand along the wood and stone again.  "It good, but...wood burns. If had ice magic, then could make magic traps, fire to frost. Or water magic, quench flames." 

  It stops at Lander though, and is joined by a thoughtful frown. Rhenner studies the elf for a moment, then lets out a resigning sigh,  "I'm almost certain that I should know who you are, and it would probably be better to politely pretend that I do. And yet I'm going to honestly but rudely admit that I don't. I apologise for that and ask if you could first kindly tell me that and then promise not to tell Alder about this. Or mother."  

Now Natalia turns to look at Rhenner. The glazed look on his face is even more obvious up close. Her brows furrow in concern.  "This Lander. Remember? You...said me his name."  She leans in and whispers to Rhenner,  "You...okay?" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner stops at the temple door and looks up in their general direction. He stands in place for a moment before starting to walk towards them.  "Studying the wall",  he says, it is more of a statement than a question. His gaze wanders up the wall and to Natalia and back to the wall again, without really focusing on either of them. It stops at Lander though, and is joined by a thoughtful frown. Rhenner studies the elf for a moment, then lets out a resigning sigh,  "I'm almost certain that I should know who you are, and it would probably be better to politely pretend that I do. And yet I'm going to honestly but rudely admit that I don't. I apologise for that and ask if you could first kindly tell me that and then promise not to tell Alder about this. Or mother."  
 

Lander sighs.  "Ah, Alder had said you were back... it was some time ago that we met. You missed my wedding,"  he adds, not appearing to take it personally,  "but Kraiyah did say she had written you about it. It's Lander."  He reaches out his hand in greeting.  "One of Girard's sons." 
 
 Spoiler 

Important note to CWater: I now realized I've added a stepfather to Rhenner that wasn't in our original PM communications. I think it fits with the setting so I hope it's all right.

I'm naming Rhenner's (elvish) stepfather Girard; he married Elynwena not long after Rhenner's father died, 7 years ago. Rhenner has met them, but not since Girard married his mother.

If anything is inconsistent about Rhenner's enormous family tree, write it off to the party's memory 🙂
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt looks down at his clenched fists with tight lips before he forcibly ejects the air from his lungs, easing the tension from his muscles as he does. He looks over at her.  "Down in the dark...I could have used your help down there. Destruction was just what I needed. I wish I knew a better way of doing it than that..."  He looks over at Mithril, breathing softly.  "Do you think Miriam did?"  
 

Mithril looked up at him, her face paling.   "I never did really ask....  What happened after you cut the rope?"   She left his second question unanswered, and the tension hanging.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Lander sighs.  "Ah, Alder had said you were back... it was some time ago that we met. You missed my wedding,"  he adds, not appearing to take it personally,  "but Kraiyah did say she had written you about it. It's Lander."  He reaches out his hand in greeting.  "One of Girard's sons." 
 
 Spoiler 

Important note to CWater: I now realized I've added a stepfather to Rhenner that wasn't in our original PM communications. I think it fits with the setting so I hope it's all right.

I'm naming Rhenner's (elvish) stepfather Girard; he married Elynwena not long after Rhenner's father died, 7 years ago. Rhenner has met them, but not since Girard married his mother.

If anything is inconsistent about Rhenner's enormous family tree, write it off to the party's memory 🙂
 
 
 

Lander, Kraiyah, Girard, dozens of siblings and step siblings and adopted siblings...Natalia raises a hand and asks with some sheepishness,  "Is there...family tree drawn?" 
 
 Spoiler 
for all of our sakes? 😛

Also, lander was born before his father married rhenners mother, right?
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia nods, running a hand along the wood and stone again.  "It good, but...wood burns. If had ice magic, then could make magic traps, fire to frost. Or water magic, quench flames."  
 

 "Right, of course",  Rhenner replies in a distant voice.


 Now Natalia turns to look at Rhenner. The glazed look on his face is even more obvious up close. Her brows furrow in concern.  "This Lander. Remember? You...said me his name."  She leans in and whispers to Rhenner,  "You...okay?"  


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Lander sighs.  "Ah, Alder had said you were back... it was some time ago that we met. You missed my wedding,"  he adds, not appearing to take it personally,  "but Kraiyah did say she had written you about it. It's Lander."  He reaches out his hand in greeting.  "One of Girard's sons." 
 
 Spoiler 

Important note to CWater: I now realized I've added a stepfather to Rhenner that wasn't in our original PM communications. I think it fits with the setting so I hope it's all right.

I'm naming Rhenner's (elvish) stepfather Girard; he married Elynwena not long after Rhenner's father died, 7 years ago. Rhenner has met them, but not since Girard married his mother.

If anything is inconsistent about Rhenner's enormous family tree, write it off to the party's memory 🙂
 
 
 

 "Alright,  you're  Lander. Sorry it's been...",  he stops and rubbs his forehead,  "a while. Sorry about the wedding too, afraid your's wasn't the only one I missed. Not that that would better my case exactly. Since you mention Kraiyah writing me-  she's  not here too, is she? -I assume that I didn't write back home then. I think I would have...",  he tries to remember, but can't fish out this piece of information from the sea of memories, and in the end just shrugs,  "Perhaps, I didn't. Do you mind if I ask when it was?"  He finds it increasingly hard to focus on the conversation.


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Lander, Kraiyah, Girard, dozens of siblings and step siblings and adopted siblings...Natalia raises a hand and asks with some sheepishness,  "Is there...family tree drawn?" 
 
 Spoiler 
for all of our sakes? 😛

Also, lander was born before his father married rhenners mother, right?
 
 
 

 "I'm not sure anyone was ever mad enough to try."  Rhenner shakes his head, then presses a thumb to his forehead and squints his eyes as if he had a major headache.  "Sorry. I don't think I'm really up for chatting. I need to find some... peace of mind." 
Cavelcade
After a moment's tense silence, Kurt sighs and rubs the back of his head, recalling the moment he made the choice to cut the line.  "It was dark and dirty. I didn't know what to expect really, but I knew you could survive without me but the others needed help. Now they've taken over for me, fighting to stop the slavers."  There's a fierce pride in his voice when he thinks of what he managed with them.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 After a moment's tense silence, Kurt sighs and rubs the back of his head, recalling the moment he made the choice to cut the line.  "It was dark and dirty. I didn't know what to expect really, but I knew you could survive without me but the others needed help. Now they've taken over for me, fighting to stop the slavers."  There's a fierce pride in his voice when he thinks of what he managed with them. 
 

 "So they lived."   Mithril looked up at the map of Eldgar, at all the places they had been.  "Hilton will make a good leader, you taught him well.  Or maybe he wanted to learn."   But she knew that Kurt was wrong, they wouldn't have survived.  The only reason that they did was due to Stefan fleeing and finding them.

 "I am glad.  Did you want to pray as well?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia looks back and forth between the two stepbrothers. Rhenners never been like this, and it's worrying her. Soon it's too much, and she puts his hand on the cleric's shoulder, looking back to Lander and asking,  "Sorry, but...want to hear more, but after?" 

Then she walks with Rhenner over to the edge of the wall and turns towards him. She's clearly concerned.  "Rhenner, what...wrong? Happened?" 
Cavelcade
 "Hilton needed a chance. A real one..."  He looks around the temple curiously, the somewhat abstract quality to them confusing at first inspection.

 "I wonder does Kord answer prayers? I came to find out if doing it here will help. At least it's away from the crowd of family." 
Admiral
As Natalia and Rhenner talk near the wall, and Kurt and Mithril ponder their prayers, the air is split by the sharp sound of a ringing bell.

 "Raid!"  comes the far cry of a guard.  "Giants, to the north!" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
Natalia's head snaps around at the alarm call.  "Sorry, Rhenner!"  She's off and running before the echoes are even able to fade, sprinting towards the north, or what she assumes is the north based on where everyone else is running, with a blade in one hand and a potion in the other.

 
 Spoiler 
my test went well, I think.

Admiral, how long has it been since we teleported here? Would the low level clerics and Druids be able to cast buffs on us or give us potions?
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia looks back and forth between the two stepbrothers. Rhenners never been like this, and it's worrying her. Soon it's too much, and she puts his hand on the cleric's shoulder, looking back to Lander and asking,  "Sorry, but...want to hear more, but after?" 

Then she walks with Rhenner over to the edge of the wall and turns towards him. She's clearly concerned.  "Rhenner, what...wrong? Happened?"  
 

 "What happened? What  hasn't  happened? The world is coming up with new ways to be mad as a daily habit it seems",  Rhenner sighs and shakes his head,  "Sometimes I wish I was back in my life three years ago, the world used to make sense then. Although, the reality would still be what it is, and eventually it would show somehow  and then  I wish I understood more what was happening."  The look in his eyes is distant and he's not sure himself that what he says makes much sense.  "Look",  he continues rubbing his forehead, trying to focus,  "it's-"  He is cut off by the raised alarm.


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 As Natalia and Rhenner talk near the wall, and Kurt and Mithril ponder their prayers, the air is split by the sharp sound of a ringing bell.

 "Raid!"  comes the far cry of a guard.  "Giants, to the north!"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  
Natalia's head snaps around at the alarm call.  "Sorry, Rhenner!"  She's off and running before the echoes are even able to fade, sprinting towards the north, or what she assumes is the north based on where everyone else is running, with a blade in one hand and a potion in the other.

 
 Spoiler 
my test went well, I think.

Admiral, how long has it been since we teleported here? Would the low level clerics and Druids be able to cast buffs on us or give us potions?
 
 
 

For a couple of seconds Rhenner is frozen in place, while the new information makes its way to be processed. But once it's registered, it gets granted highest priority and all other matters are promptly swept aside and told to shut up until further notice. Rhenner runs after Natalia.  "Where are Mithril and Kurt?!" 
Admiral
As the party runs out into the field, they see civilians darting into shelters, just as men and women with swords and bows emerge. Many seem resigned, as though this were a regular, and unsurprising, occurrence. The party is on the far southern side of the city, but they can see archers line up along the terrace to the north.

 "I'll grab my bow,"  Lander shouts at the party as he steps back towards one of the guard towers.  "-and we can meet at the wall. Don't worry- we've been through this-" 

Suddenly one of the walls nearest them, the one on the southernmost side of the city, shudders as if struck. Moments later it shutters again, and a small burst of flame seems to break through, in a small chunk ten feet above the ground. Looking through the hole, the party can see a whirlwind of fire- but unlike the fire from the dragon or from a spell, this fire seems to have a stable form- that of a hulking beast. It has punched through the wall as if it were made of paper, and the edges of the hole are already alight.

 
 Spoiler 
Time to roll initiative. Map upcoming. Natalia and Rhenner can see this happen, Mithril and Kurt are just a little bit farther but can reach it momentarily and can hear Rhenner and Natalia.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "What happened? What  hasn't  happened? The world is coming up with new ways to be mad as a daily habit it seems",  Rhenner sighs and shakes his head,  "Sometimes I wish I was back in my life three years ago, the world used to make sense then. Although, the reality would still be what it is, and eventually it would show somehow  and then  I wish I understood more what was happening."  The look in his eyes is distant and he's not sure himself that what he says makes much sense.  "Look",  he continues rubbing his forehead, trying to focus,  "it's-"  He is cut off by the raised alarm.
] 
 

Everything Rhenner said is...something Natalia's been thinking about herself, actually. She wouldn't go back as far as three years, but to back to the start of the adventure, where everything was as solid as stone, not brittle orange or shifting yellow...back when things were simple, and there wasn't need to be so paranoid.

 "No, Rhenner, think I get. Want go back, where, when..." 

 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 As the party runs out into the field, they see civilians darting into shelters, just as men and women with swords and bows emerge. Many seem resigned, as though this were a regular, and unsurprising, occurrence. The party is on the far southern side of the city, but they can see archers line up along the terrace to the north.

 "I'll grab my bow,"  Lander shouts at the party as he steps back towards one of the guard towers.  "-and we can meet at the wall. Don't worry- we've been through this-" 

Suddenly one of the walls nearest them, the one on the southernmost side of the city, shudders as if struck. Moments later it shutters again, and a small burst of flame seems to break through, in a small chunk ten feet above the ground. Looking through the hole, the party can see a whirlwind of fire- but unlike the fire from the dragon or from a spell, this fire seems to have a stable form- that of a hulking beast. It has punched through the wall as if it were made of paper, and the edges of the hole are already alight.

 
 Spoiler 
Time to roll initiative. Map upcoming. Natalia and Rhenner can see this happen, Mithril and Kurt are just a little bit farther but can reach it momentarily and can hear Rhenner and Natalia.
 
 
 

The swirling heat slaps Natalia in the face even at this distance, and she stares at the hulking mass of flame that's tearing through solid wood like wet tissue. Fire is alive in a way, and so is lightning, but not like this. It's like the little lightning elemental that she learned to pull from her core and send out for a moment, but this is so much bigger and nastier...

was it thrown from somewhere, or magically thrown here?  "living flame!"  Natalia screams as she casts the cats grace spell on herself, through the gloves.   "think they have caster!"  she screams as she looks for the Flames' source and heads towards it, not quite as fast once she feels the heat rolling off the beast.

 
 Spoiler 
natalia casts cats grace through the arcanist gloves (4 minute duration) and then moves towards the fire. I'm sorry, but may she please look around?
 
Cavelcade
Kurt hears the alarm bells ringing and stands slowly, shaking off the last cobwebs of uncertainty before grabbing his bow from where he'd left it beside the door, stringing it in a swift movement as he races towards where the flow of people is strongest, his brow furrowed lightly at the bridge of his nose as he spots the enemy - more fire, this time moving on its own. He speeds up, racing to get into range before it breaks through completely.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 

Knowledge Arcana:  (1d20+3)[ 20 ] 

Maneuvers rolls:
 (1d5)[ 2 ]  - Stone Bones
 (1d4)[ 3 ]  - Overwhelming Mountain Strike
 (1d3)[ 2 ]  - Leading the Attack

He's in Iron Guard's Glare btw.
 
Admiral
Kurt recognizes the creature as a fire elemental, an incarnation of fire given shape. He knows it would be vulnerable to cold magic.

 
 Spoiler 

BTW I had to change Kurt's color on the map to make him visible against the background!

Mithril's turn. Once she can see the elemental she can Knowledge (Arcana) as well.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Found it!!!
 
 Spoiler: Spells 
Spell List:
0 (4):
Detect Magic
Read Magic
Prestidigitation
Mage Hand
1(5):
Mage Armor
Vampiric Touch
Magic Missile
Magic Missile
Burning Hands
2(5):
See Invisibility
Web
Cloud of Knives
Acid Arrow
Acid Arrow
3(4):
Tongues
Haste
Dispel Magic
 Haste 
4(4):
Black Tentacles
Dimension Door
Dimension Door
Black Tentacles
5(2):
Wall of Limbs
 Fly, Mass 
 
 
 

Mithril followed Kurt out of the church at the sound and stared up at the large creature.  Her first reaction (now habit after many battles) was to touch her shoulder, summoning forth the force field armor.

 
 Spoiler: Checks 
Mage Armor

Knowledge Arcana:  (1d20+17)[ 30 ] 
 
Admiral
Mithril recognizes the creature as a fire elemental, and knows it is vulnerable to cold magic while immune to fire magic, as well as to the kinds of sleep and paralysis spells Shiny tended to favor. She also knows physical weapons are partially ineffective against it.

The party can hear a few shouts at the top of the nearest stone tower, the sounds of guards preparing. But then a burst of fire engulfs the tower, and the shouts turn to screams. It looked like the fire had been cast from somewhere beyond the walls. Lander gasps as he sees this, and races towards the door at the base of the tower to aid the guards at the top.

The fire elemental continues to tear through the thick wooden wall, growing the gap until it is ten feet tall and wide, enough for the beast to step through- and for anyone to follow. The edges of the hole continue to burn slowly.

 
 Spoiler 

Lander's position has been updated on the map.

You can't see anyone through the hole yet, just vague glimpse of the outside of the wall.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The screams make Rhenner stop and very nearly run to help. Only the immediate logic of the situation doesn't make him rush into the burning watchtower.

 "There's a caster beyond the wall,"  Rhenner gasps as he sprints towards the elemental methodically burning through the wall. He curses the armor slowing him down; at this rate the thing will burn down the entire town! He takes out a scroll--there's a prayer on it, an incantation and exhortation for the target to follow the teachings of Fharlaghn and wander--somewhere else. But all he shouts is,  "GO AWAY!" 
 
 Spoiler: Actions and disclaimer 
Rhenner will run forward and cast Dismissal off the scroll. DC spell’s save DC - creature’s HD + your caster level--I assume the caster level of whomever wrote the scroll, so it's 18-Fire elemental's HD+9?

Also, IF THIS WASN'T OK, PLEASE TELL ME SO I CAN DELETE IT!
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 
Of course it is OK!

Good luck:

Will save  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 

And the cleric gets the battle off to a solid start!
 


Rhenner puts all the might of his faith into the spell, and the fire elemental shrivels into oblivion.

The edges of the hole continue to burn. Through it the party can see only grass and a distant treeline.

 
 Spoiler 


You can't see much from your angle so you'll need to approach, enemies could still be out there (and not necessarily invisible). Combat continues, party's turn.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Forest and fire--the screams shake at Natalia's core and send he back to the shrapnel ship, and the slaughter. The crackle of flames and the pop as Rhenner's spell takes hold and forces the hulking beast of flame to vanish...somewhere drags her back to the now. Forest and fire. They're going to burn down not only the village, but also the whole forest if she and he friends don't stop them!

Flames crackle along the barricade, and burning chunks of wood collapse into charcoal and embers, but the fire still burns as Natalia races towards it. It's a curtain of flame, enough to make the most of her brain quail and shrink away even with knowledge of Rhenner's abjurations, but she runs, and leaps.

Somewhere, at some time, she heard a story, more of a rhyme. The hare jumps into the fire, but leaps through so fast that it isn't burned. Natalia's fast, but not that fast. She feels flames and warmth lick at her ankles and threaten to travel up her legs, but thanks to Rhenner's spell it's and warmth and nothing more. She lands on the other side, rolls forward, stumbles to her feet, and looks around into the forest.

 
 Spoiler 
Thanks, Admiral.

Natalia keeps running, full-round action, to S6. She then takes a good look and listen around. Is that okay?

Also, her ac is 27 instead of 29 right now and she's not flatfooted thanks to uncanny dodge
 
Cavelcade
Kurt rushes forward as far as the edge of the wall, then hesitates uncertainly, sword in hand as he looks out to try and spot an enemy anywhere, trying to see where the attack is coming from.  "Natalia, do you see anyone?" 
Admiral
As Natalia hops through the burning hole in the door, she is surprised by a pair of arrows flying at her from the woods. The two orcs have warpaint on their faces- similar, though still distinct, from the Horde soldiers they'd encountered around Soshima and Deldon, and each wears chain armor.

 
 Spoiler 

Readied actions!

O2:
Attack:  (1d20+13)[ 21 ]  Critical:  (1d20+13)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 7 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 1 ]  fire Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 11 ] 

O3:
Attack:  (1d20+14)[ 33 ]  Critical:  (1d20+14)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 11 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 4 ]  fire Critical:  (1d8+4)[ 6 ] 

Looks like one hit for 15 damage.

Could you delete your post? I was delayed posting about the orcs, but it doesn't do anything to post about them before my IC update; as you saw there were readied actions. You could repost after
 


Aside from the pair of archers who had fired at her, she spots another orc soldier in a breastplate taking cover behind a tree nearer the guard tower.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 As Natalia hops through the burning hole in the door, she is surprised by a pair of arrows flying at her from the woods. The two orcs have warpaint on their faces- similar, though still distinct, from the Horde soldiers they'd encountered around Soshima and Deldon, and each wears chain armor.

 
 Spoiler 



Looks like one hit for 15 damage.

Could you delete your post? I was delayed posting about the orcs, but it doesn't do anything to post about them before my IC update; as you saw there were readied actions. You could repost after
 


Aside from the pair of archers who had fired at her, she spots another orc soldier in a breastplate taking cover behind a tree nearer the guard tower. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt rushes forward as far as the edge of the wall, then hesitates uncertainly, sword in hand as he looks out to try and spot an enemy anywhere, trying to see where the attack is coming from.  "Natalia, do you see anyone?"  
 

Natalia sees the movement of arms and bows and arrows as she gets to her feet, and throws herself flat against a rock again. One arrow whizzes overhead, but the other one is too fast to dodge, and buries itself into her forearm, between the bones. She screams, cuts it off into a gasp as she reflexively snaps the shaft with her other hand. Panting, she gets to her feet, and easily spots the two orcs that shot at her, and a glint of metal that betrays the presence of the third.

 "Yes,"  she gasps, quickly pointing at the three orcs she can see with her other arm.  "But bet more I can't." 
 
 Spoiler 
Oops, sorry about that. Is this any better? And haha, I'm not terribly surprised. Oh well!

Also, it's only 11 damage. Rhenner cast Protection From Fire on Natalia; she can absorb 114 more points of fire damage in the next 100 minutes or so.
 
Athedia
Mithril ran toward the wall, keeping away from the hole.  Pressing herself against it she gasped out her question.   "Did you see who summoned it?  They are the most danger." 
Admiral
One of the orc archers shouts back behind him, and new shapes appear in the forest. Barbarians emerge from their hiding spots deeper in the trees and rush forward; a full squadron of orc raiders, at least. Each brandishes an axe, sword or other weapon- it seems they were prepared to conquer the town once the wall was down.

The orc in the breastplate reaches his palm out towards Natalia. From his hand there springs an arrow of acid that launches at the rogue.

 
 Spoiler 

Warmage!

Acid arrow:

Ranged touch:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
If hits, this round  (2d4)[ 4 ]  damage
 


The two archers again fire their bows at Natalia, this time each shooting a pair of flaming arrows.

 
 Spoiler 

O2:
Attack:  (1d20+13)[ 21 ]  Critical:  (1d20+13)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 2 ]  fire Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 7 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 28 ]  Critical:  (1d20+8)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 4 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 4 ]  fire Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 

O3:
Attack:  (1d20+14)[ 21 ]  Critical:  (1d20+14)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 7 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 3 ]  fire Critical:  (1d8+4)[ 11 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 25 ]  Critical:  (1d20+9)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 5 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 2 ]  fire Critical:  (1d8+4)[ 6 ] 

Party's turn! Map updated with all them new orcs.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia's eyes widen at her mistake--she may be stronger than before, but she's not that strong, and she can see nearly ten orcs bearing down on her. Her realization is soon confirmed as they fire another round of arrows at her. Natalia flips and ducks and dodges and is able to dodge most, but one of them punches through her thigh, trailing blood as it goes. She stumbles, and the orc in the breastplate sends a familiar arrow of sizzling acid in the same spot, burning her already bleeding flesh. She screams as she runs and half-hobbles back to the wall, draws her bow, and chugs another potion that wards her against evil. And considering their axes, that would be appropriate.  "Keep them from wall!"  she shouts.  "Flood of blades through broken dam!" 
 
 Spoiler: Action 
Natalia runs as far back as possible, behind the wall if she can, using the anklet if necessary, and drinks another potion of Protection from Evil, sending her AC back into dodge-tank levels and also protecting her from mental manipulation and summoned creatures (now that I think about it, would Protection from Evil have protected us against the voice? It protects against direct attacks so I don't think so but is my suspicion right?). She can also absorb 108 HP more of fire damage.
 

EDIT:


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner runs to the guard tower, and with his back against it glances past the corner at the burning hole in the wall.  "How many did you see?!",  he shouts to Natalia, then casts a minor spell to improve his aim. Not many combat spells that he prepared today.

 
 Spoiler 
Moves to H48 and casts Guidance on himself.
 
 
 

 "Nine!"  Natalia shouts as she grits her teeth and pulls out the stump of the arrow between her forearm.  "Might be more!" 
CWater
Rhenner runs to the guard tower, and with his back against it glances past the corner at the burning hole in the wall.  "How many did you see?!",  he shouts to Natalia, then casts a minor spell to improve his aim. Not many combat spells that he prepared today.

 
 Spoiler 
Moves to H48 and casts Guidance on himself.
 
CoffeeIncluded
They don't stop. They'll never stop. Mithril steps forward and thrusts out her arms in the direction of everyone, shouting in Draconic,   "Run them down!"   As she does she imbues everyone around her with a burst of speed and agility, from her allies to Lander to any other elves nearby or in the burning guardtower.

With new alacrity, Kurt dashes forward into the exposed field, where he can see orcs rushing towards him. He draws his sword into a defensive stance, takes a deep breath, and shouts,  "Come on then if you think you're hard enough!" 
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Mithril runs forward (She moved forward last turn but that wasn't edited onto the map and casts haste on herself, Natalia, Kurt, Rhenner, Lander, and up to five other allies within a 50 foot radius. Kurt then runs forward, goes into Total Defense for an AC of 25 (and he's in the Iron Guard's Glare stance), and tries to bait the orcs into doing something stupid, hopefully drawing them out but not quite having all of them rush him at once? (would that be an intimidate check? Please remove it if that wouldn't be necessary, or change the roll to something more appropriate).

Intimidate?  (d20+9)[ 29 ] 

Was this okay? Admiral, Cavelcade, Athedia, do you want me to change anything? Do you have any recommendations?
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

What orcs were scared? (There's a circumstance bonus because they're raging and Kurt is outnumbered, and note that I sometimes round things, so don't meta-read into the numbers much)

O4  (1d20+13)[ 32 ] 
O5  (1d20+13)[ 17 ] 
O6  (1d20+13)[ 21 ] 
O7  (1d20+13)[ 28 ] 
O8  (1d20+13)[ 31 ] 
 
Admiral
Two of the orcs rush forward, closing most of the distance, but a few others take a moment's pause at engaging the dwarf. One of them steps behind a tree and draws his bow instead.

The orc mage shouts angrily at his companions; from the sound of it he is probably urging them forward. Then he turns to the party and casts another spell: a small bright orb that flies directly between Natalia and Kurt before erupting into a sphere of fire.

 
 Spoiler 

Fireball, DC 18 Reflex save for half of:  (8d6)[ 28 ]  for Kurt and Natalia. +1 to your Reflex saves from Haste, and of course evasion applies.

Luckily I checked the area of effect carefully and Rhenner and Mithril just barely avoid it!
 


The three archers with their bows ready fire at Kurt.

 
 Spoiler 

O2:
Attack:  (1d20+13)[ 21 ]  Critical:  (1d20+13)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 4 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 5 ]  fire Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 9 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 24 ]  Critical:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ]  plus [roll]1d6[/roll fire Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 

O3:
Attack:  (1d20+14)[ 19 ]  Critical:  (1d20+14)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 10 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 3 ]  fire Critical:  (1d8+4)[ 6 ]   (1d8+4)[ 8 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 13 ]  Critical:  (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 10 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 1 ]  fire Critical:  (1d8+4)[ 12 ]   (1d8+4)[ 5 ] 

O5:  (1d20+12)[ 31 ]  Critical:  (1d20+12)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 5 ]  Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 4 ]   (1d8+3)[ 9 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia's seen those beads before. Her eyes widen as it arcs towards them and she flings herself behind the fence. The world around her explodes in a roaring burst of splinters and flame. Burning timber falls around her, glowing embers dance around her head, but Natalia is untouched. When the fire dies down she looks back up through the haze of smoke and fire at the approaching orcs, glowing red pinpoints of ash still falling over her, and fires her bow, three arrows sent in rapid succession through the flames towards the orc closest to them.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 
Natalia fires three arrows at O4. I have a question: since the wooden wall in front of her is still on fire, and fire rises above the wood that burns, could she please fire her arrows at O4 through the flames so they become flaming arrows and might do extra damage? If so, I'll add in the fire damage after.

Reflex:  (d20+22)[ 29 ] 

Attack 1:  (d20+18)[ 35 ] 
Crit:  (d20+18)[ 32 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 2 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8)[ 1 ]   (d8)[ 4 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+18)[ 23 ] 
Crit:  (d20+18)[ 33 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 6 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8)[ 5 ]   (d8)[ 7 ] 

Attack 3:  (d20+18)[ 23 ]   18, sorry 
Crit:  (d20+18)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 4 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8)[ 4 ]   (d8)[ 5 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Kurt follows Natalia's lead and tries to throw himself behind the burning palisade as the fireball explodes with a whole-body sensation that's felt as much as heard. He's not quite as fast, and burning lumber falls on him and burns his neck and arms, but he's still able to dodge the worse of the flames and blast. When the ringing in his ears dies down he peeks around the corner and fires three more arrows at the closest orc, the one Natalia already shot. After that he steps back behind the burning palisade.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 
Please, please let me know if this is or isn't okay. Kurt fires at the closest orc (can he do the shooting through fire for fire damage thing?) three times, then 5 foot steps behind the wall for cover.

Reflex save:  (d20+6)[ 26 ]  Woo-hoo!

Attack 1:  (d20+13)[ 29 ] 
Crit:  (d20+13)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (d8+5)[ 7 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8+5)[ 6 ]   (d8+5)[ 13 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+13)[ 25 ] 
Crit:  (d20+13)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (d8+5)[ 9 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8+5)[ 13 ]   (d8+5)[ 9 ] 

Attack 3:  (d20+8)[ 12 ] 
Crit:   (d20+18)[ 35 ]   25 actually (forgot to delete the 1, sorry) but I don't think it matters since bows only crit on a nat 20.
Damage:  (d8+5)[ 11 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8+5)[ 7 ]   (d8+5)[ 10 ] 
 
CWater
 " A traveller risks many injuries while on their journey. Dweller on the Horizon, grant us Your blessing to heal them faster ",  Rhenner recites from memory as he casts a spell to grant the party fast healing. He also adds a short-term extra effect to the healing on Kurt that might force an attacker to stay their hand.

 
 Spoiler: Spell, etc. 
Okay, so casting Mass Lesser Vigor (because keeping track of the HP totals wasn't enough of a hassle already😛), so everyone heal 7 HP this round and 1 HP per round for the next 19. (I think I'll better start keeping count or something.)

Also, adding a Healing Kicker(1 round of Sanctuary*) to Kurt, DC 23. (Yes, that's right. It's 15+class level+Wis mod.)

*My understanding of the Sanctuary spell is such that an attacker  doesn't know  if their target is under the effects of the spell  before  they try to attack, unless of course they have detected it by using spellcraft, etc. This however, is not explicitly stated, so please let me know if we're using a different ruling.

Also, if it would be possible to delay this action so that Lander can step close enough to be included in the Vigor spell, that would be nice. :) Unless of course that would mean to delay it as far as the next round, then not. (The range limitation are the same as with Haste.)
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Spells 
Spell List:
0 (4):
Detect Magic
Read Magic
Prestidigitation
Mage Hand
1(5):
Mage Armor
Vampiric Touch
Magic Missile
Magic Missile
Burning Hands
2(5):
See Invisibility
Web
Cloud of Knives
Acid Arrow
Acid Arrow
3(4):
Tongues
 Haste 
Dispel Magic
Haste
4(4):
Black Tentacles
Dimension Door
Dimension Door
Black Tentacles
5(2):
 Wall of Limbs 
 Fly, Mass 
 


Mithril moved behind Kurt to get an eye on the field.  She rolled up her sleeve, reaching her bare arm toward the gathering of orcs as she repeated a series of words.  Chanting over and over, her eyes closed in concentration.  As she spoke a rumbling grew and thousands of copies of her bared arm sprung from the earth, woven together into a reaching, crushing circle around the warmage and any orcs near him.

 
 Spoiler 
I was a little out of it for a bit sorry.  But now we get to test out this spell, she is going to make the ring version of it.  Radius of 25 feet.  I want to try to position one of the walls next to the warmage (with him on the inside) enclosing as many of the others as possible.
 
Admiral
A wall of arms resembling Mithril's own erupts around the mage, also capturing the nearest orc barbarian to him. The arms grab at the two orcs.

 
 Spoiler 

Just managed to enclose both (next to them), no others.

O1 Strength:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ]  If fail:  (5d6)[ 14 ]  damage this turn
O2 Strength:  (1d20+5)[ 17 ]  If fail:  (5d6)[ 23 ]  damage this turn

If they fail, they're grabbed and stuck. Otherwise they're still inside and can try to run through.
 


Another of the orc archers tries to fire at Kurt.

 
 Spoiler 

O3 Will save against Sanctuary:  (1d20+4)[ 7 ] 

If fails, loses action.

Starting with that, followup IC in a moment.
 
Admiral
Another of the orcs fires again at Kurt.

 
 Spoiler 

This is the one hiding behind the tree after Kurt shouted at folks.

O5:  (1d20+12)[ 29 ]  Critical:  (1d20+12)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 9 ]  Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 10 ]   (1d8+3)[ 10 ] 
 (1d20+7)[ 9 ]  Critical:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 6 ]  Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 10 ]   (1d8+3)[ 5 ] 
 


One of the orcs yells out a single orcish word and charges in. The others are encouraged, and race in behind, nearly behind it. The leading orc charges forward and slashes his greataxe at Kurt.

 
 Spoiler 

Closing those distances. And this lead one is charging and raging.

O4 Attack:
 (1d20+18)[ 26 ]  Critical:  (1d20+18)[ 38 ] 
Damage:  (1d12+10)[ 17 ]  Critical:  (1d12+10)[ 14 ]   (1d12+10)[ 14 ] 

Not sure what Kurt's AC is.

O2 charged so -2 to AC. Of the orcs standing behind him, O7, O9 and O3 were running last turn, though being barbarians they are of course not flatfooted.
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

Oops! I counted Sanctuary for the arrow guy but not this one. Let's see if he can do that attack at all:

Will save:  (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 

Nope!
 


The lead orc rushes towards Kurt- but at the last moment holds off, his axe still in the air, as he seems to reconsider.
CWater
Rhenner takes a few steps to the right to get a better aim and after muttering a short prayer shoots a beam of light from his palm at one of the running orcs.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move to M48.
Casting Searing Light at  O8 
Ranged touch attack:  (1d20+11)[ 29 ]  (+1 from Guidance used here, included)
Damage:  (5d8)[ 16 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: HP totals 
By my calculations the situation is the following (correct me if I'm wrong!):

Kurt: 85/118
Natalia: 61/73, 10/120 fire absorbed
Mithril: 47/47
Rhenner: 59/59

+1 from Vigor this round is included here.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Last turn I had moved to N45 (behind Kurt).  It wasn't changed on the map.  I ditzed there.

Also marked where BT lands.
 


Mithril gestured again, the ground shaking in front of the wall this time.  Dark tentacles burst forth to try to ensnare the attacking orcs.
Admiral
The approaching barbarians jump as the tentacles erupt from the earth, trying to escape its deadly clutches.

 
 Spoiler 

O3: Grapple:  (1d20+13)[ 21 ]  Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 30 ] 
O6: Grapple:  (1d20+16)[ 33 ]  Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 26 ] 
O8: Grapple:  (1d20+14)[ 27 ]  Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 26 ] 
 


One of the orcs is immediately captured.
CoffeeIncluded
Mithril's familiar tentacles burst through the ground (and there's another unfamiliar spell just at the edge of her vision that holds the caster and another fast), snaring three of the orcs and holding one fast. Natalia's instantly there to react, turning her ankle and stepping forward, letting the anklet pull her across the burning palisade, where she immediately lets three arrows fly towards the grappled Orc. Movement makes her glance back, and there she sees mithril and rhenner, right behind Kurt, with a wide-open space perfect for the one rampaging Orc to slip through.

She closes her eyes and steps back with a gulp. Natalia tenses her muscles, gets ready to dodge and braces herself for a blow, or several. Memories of deldon flash through her head. This is going to suck.

 
 Spoiler: Natalia's actions 
natalia anklets forward, then fires her bow at O3 (it's just inside sneak attack range). She then 5-foot steps back to I think o43? Just to the right of the Orc in front of Kurt so that the Orc can't get inside, or to mithril or rhenner. And she gets ready for pain. Kurt is in iron guards glare though, so the Orc has -4 to attack against her.

Attack 1:  (d20+18)[ 38 ] 
Critical:  (d20+18)[ 27 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 3 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 20 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8)[ 8 ]   (d8)[ 7 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+18)[ 37 ] 
Critical:  (d20+18)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 13 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8)[ 5 ]   (d8)[ 4 ] 

Attack 3:  (d20+13)[ 29 ] 
Critical:  (d20+13)[ 31 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 18 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8)[ 2 ]   (d8)[ 1 ] 

If the Orc is dead before Natalia is out of attacks she fires any remaining arrows at the Orc facing down Kurt--just remove the sneak attack damage.

EDIT: Hah! Crit!
 
CoffeeIncluded
Kurt breaths and and out, back in the flow of battle. Unlike the screaming orc who suddenly paused before him, Kurt seems calm and measured--and thorough. If there's any anger or fury, it's seen not in his face, but in the way he swings his blade in an overwhelming strike like an avalanche.

 
 Spoiler: Kurt's attack 
I hope this is okay. Kurt's going to draw Daybreaker and use Overwhelming Mountain Strike on the orc right in front of him who managed to get into melee (is he the one we've been peppering with arrows? Rhenner got a Searing Light in on him too). If it hits, it does an extra 2d6 points of damage AND the orc will need to make a DC 20 Fort save (14+strength modifier, which is 6) or lose his move action next round (no full attack!)

Anyway, here goes. The orc is raging and charging for a cumulative -4 to his AC, right? And Kurt's in Iron Guard Glare so if he attacks anyone but Kurt he takes a -4 penalty to attack. Power attack -3/+6

Attack:  (d20+16)[ 30 ] 
Crit:  (d20+16)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+16)[ 22 ]  plus holy damage:  (2d6)[ 5 ]  plus Overwhelming Mountain Strike damage:  (2d6)[ 6 ] 
Crit damage:  (2d6+16)[ 23 ] 
 
Admiral
Natalia fires a quick series of arrows at the orc who is most severely held by the tentacles. With the last of them the enemy barbarian falls unconscious.

Kurt's blade slashes into the closest orc, wounding him.

 
 Spoiler 

O3 is down for the count. (I might have said he wasn't earlier, but was miscounting! Can't quite remember.)

O4 is hit but not yet bloodied.
 


Two other orcs slowly clamber out of the tentacles and move towards Natalia. The one in back fires an arrow through the widening gap in the wall as he approaches, while the other draws his blade.

 
 Spoiler 

O8:
 (1d20+14)[ 21 ]  Critical:  (1d20+14)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 9 ]  Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ]   (1d8+3)[ 5 ] 
 


Three of the other orcs advance, though the tentacles stop them from charging into battle as they move forward.

 
 Spoiler 

O5 had to run (not that it's a big thing with their uncanny dodge and all), the other two orcs just double moved.
 


The wall of limbs, each resembling Mithril's arms, flails as it holds the other pair of orcs. Suddenly a blast of lightning erupts through it.

 
 Spoiler 

The warmage (O1) is trying to escape by casting Lightning Bolt, and thus dealing 30 or more damage to a 5 foot section (see Wall of Limbs rule.)

Damage:  (8d6)[ 31 ] 

More in next post.
 
Admiral
The warmage clambers out of Mithril's spell as the arms fall apart around him. The other tries to fight his way out.

 
 Spoiler 

 (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
 


He fails to escape the spell himself.

The orc in front of Kurt shouts raises his greataxe and takes a pair of terrible swings at the dwarf.

 
 Spoiler 

O4:

Attack:  (1d20+17)[ 18 ]  Critical:  (1d20+17)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d12+10)[ 16 ]  Critical:  (1d12+10)[ 17 ]   (1d12+10)[ 15 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+12)[ 14 ]  Critical:  (1d20+12)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d12+10)[ 19 ]  Critical:  (1d12+10)[ 11 ]   (1d12+10)[ 19 ] 

Not impressive rolls, my barbarian friend.
 


The barbarian's rage seems to blind him as both the axes miss their target.
CWater
Rhenner lifts his holy symbol and concentrates on a new spell. It's one he has never cast before, but it's supposed to be one of the stronger ones.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Casting Dancing Web. It deals  (10d6)[ 40 ]  non-lethal to all targets in 20 ft. range. Ref DC 19 for half. Also on a failed save those that are Evil become  entangled  for 1d6 rounds, though not stuck in place, by lingering strands of   pure goodness   magic*.

If the center is placed three down and one to the right compared to the center of the tentacles, then I think it should hit orcs O4, O5, O6, O8 and O9, and not anyone from the party. It's an instantaneous effect and despite the name doesn't actually leave a web behind.

*Though considering that this spell is from BoED it's actually surprising it isn't the former.😏
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

Save's for Rhenner's spell:

O4:  (1d20+4)[ 10 ] 
O5:  (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
O6:  (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 
O8:  (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
O9:  (1d20+5)[ 20 ] 

Not everyone in a barbarian tribe is evil. In that environment it's not hard for a neutral orc to be pulled along. So about half are (2=evil, as I play dice with their souls)

O4:  (1d2)[ 1 ] 
O5:  (1d2)[ 2 ] 
O6:  (1d2)[ 1 ] 
O8:  (1d2)[ 2 ] 
O9:  (1d2)[ 1 ] 

(Note that who is evil and who isn't remains meta info not known to the players, though you will know who is entangled. Nor is there anything particularly evil about killing a neutral barbarian in self-defense, all else equal, so don't get hung up on it 😉)

All get full damage except O9, and O5 and O8 are entangled. O4 is bloodied.

Natalia + Kurt + Mithril's turn
 
Athedia
Mithril realized the approaching barbarians more than matched the power Kurt and Natalia had to defend the gate and raised her hand summoning another tentacled mass from the depths of the earth.   She barely managed to process the man leaping overhead, another odd event in a crazy day. 
 Spoiler 
Black Tentacles, marked in blue outline on map.
 
Admiral
The orcs try to avoid the tentacles that Mithril calls forth from the earth.

 
 Spoiler 

O4: Grapple:  (1d20+14)[ 22 ]  Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 31 ] 
O6: Grapple:  (1d20+16)[ 20 ]  Tentacles: [roll]1d20+18)[/roll]
O7: Grapple:  (1d20+15)[ 31 ]  Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 29 ] 
O8: Grapple:  (1d20+14)[ 18 ]  Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 23 ] 
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

Oops!

O6: Grapple:  (1d20+16)[ 19 ]  Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 33 ] 
 


One of the orcs escapes the worst of the tentacles' clutches, but the others are ensnared.
CoffeeIncluded
A shape flies through the air out of the corner of Natalia's eye, and she whips around with her bow drawn and ready to fire. Only the realization that it's coming from their side and rocketing towards the warmage that clambered free of Mithril's disturbing wall of clenched fists holds her fire. Still, she spends more than a fraction of a second looking in disbelief.

  Ooookaay...  

A gleam of dancing threads of light entangling the orcs and piercing them, followed by the sound of cracking earth and their shouts as most are grappled, snaps Natalia back to the battle. In an instant she fires three arrows at the orc furthest in the back, both grappled by tentacles and struggling to break free of the thin strands of light.

 
 Spoiler: Attack!  
Sorry about the wait, I just got home and my computer was being a jerk. It's working now though! O8 is currently grappled AND entangled. Sneak attack! If any arrows are left after either killing or knocking out O8 (that means she'll stop if he's KOed from her arrows and Rhenner's spell but not outright killed) she goes for O6.

Attack 1:  (d20+18)[ 30 ] 
Crit:  (d20+18)[ 28 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 5 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 25 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8)[ 1 ]   (d8)[ 3 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+18)[ 25 ] 
Crit:  (d20+18)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 1 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 25 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8)[ 2 ]   (d8)[ 4 ] 

Attack 3:  (d20+13)[ 26 ] 
Crit:  (d20+13)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 6 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 31 ] 
Crit damage:  (d8)[ 5 ]   (d8)[ 3 ] 
 
Cavelcade
Kurt concentrates on the foe in front of him, bringing the might of his blade to bear on the enemy, smashing him repeatedly with the holy sword Daybringer. For the moment he keeps his wits about him, his back tensing for just a moment as he hears the ominous sound of rushing feet behind him, but not taking his eyes off the orc before him, instead trusting in Natalia to keep his back secure.

 
 Spoiler 

Power attack: -5/+10

Attack 1:
 (1d20+10)[ 14 ]  Attack = 15
 (1d20+10)[ 22 ]  Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 28 ]  +  (2d6)[ 3 ]  (if evil) Attack
 (2d6+17)[ 24 ]  +  (2d6)[ 7 ]  (if evil) Crit

Attack2:
 (1d20+5)[ 20 ]   Attack = 21
 (1d20+5)[ 13 ]   Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 23 ]  +  (2d6)[ 9 ]  (if evil) Attack
 (2d6+17)[ 25 ]  +  (2d6)[ 9 ]  (if evil) Crit
 
Cavelcade
And thanks to Mithril's prowess, he's able to turn to strike again, his hands a blur as he reverses his grip to bring Daybreaker back around.

 
 Spoiler 

Power attack: -5/+10 still:

Attack:
 (1d20+10)[ 24 ]  Attack = 25 because I forgot haste adds + 1 again.
 (1d20+10)[ 15 ]  Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 23 ]  +  (2d6)[ 7 ]  (if evil) Attack
 (2d6+17)[ 22 ]  +  (2d6)[ 3 ]  (if evil) Crit
 
Admiral
A pair of arrows from Natalia are enough to slay one of the orcs injured by Rhenner's spell. Another of her arrows lands in one of the nearest orcs.

While Kurt's first swing misses the orc trapped in tentacles before him, his second lands true, and his third cuts deep into his chest, killing him.

 
 Spoiler 

O4 and O8 are dead; O6 is bloodied.

BTW I'll count that since Ian did a full turn run + swift action he didn't have time to give any attention to Detect Thoughts (even briefly), but certainly can next round.
 


The warmage in front of Ian sneers at the newest warrior to join the fray. He opens his mouth and lets loose a powerful yell that washes over him.

 
 Spoiler 

Shout. Damage:  (5d6)[ 17 ] , plus deafness.

Ian gets a Fortitude save to negate deafness and halve damage, DC 18.
 


The other orc trapped in Mithril's multitude of limbs tries again to escape.

 
 Spoiler 

 (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 

To be continued with other orcs' actions momentarily.
 
Admiral
One of the orcs trapped by the tentacles tries to escape them.

 
 Spoiler 

O6: Grapple:  (1d20+16)[ 31 ]  Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 20 ] 
 


The fire spreads farther along the wall, flames weakening the wooden foundations. The party suddenly hears the sounds of axes chopping against the burning parts. While the entrance is still blocked by the waving tentacles, the enemies appear to intend to break through where the wall is already weakened.

 
 Spoiler 

O7 or O9 are chopping at the walls at L43 and Q43. There is no line of attack for them without stepping into the tentacles.

An Knowledge (Architecture/Engineering) check may be able to figure out how long before they can break through the burning walls.
 


The remaining orc steps back and fires a pair of arrows at Natalia.

 
 Spoiler 

O5's attack:

 (1d20+12)[ 20 ]  Critical:  (1d20+12)[ 32 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 11 ]  Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 5 ]   (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20+7)[ 25 ]  Critical:  (1d20+7)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ]  Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 7 ]   (1d8+3)[ 4 ] 
 
Admiral
One of the orcs breaks free from the grasp of the tentacles. In his rage he lunges forward, shoving his way through the tentacles, drawing a smaller axe from his back as he does. As he bursts out of the tentacles he grabs Natalia.

 
 Spoiler 

Improved Grapple, no AoO.

Melee touch attack to grab:  (1d20+16)[ 30 ] 

If succeed, Grapple check vs Natalia:  (1d20+16)[ 27 ] 

If he fails either, I'm leaving him in the tentacle zone at O43.

K, Natalia's turn to make opposed grapple.
 
CoffeeIncluded
One arrow comes closer to Natalia than the other, but she easily steps aside--and that movement puts her in line of sight to see two orcs cutting through the burning walls. Her eyes widen and she raises her bow as she looks for Lander.  "HURRY, THEY CHOPPING TH--Glrrk!" 

The orc comes barreling through the tentacles too quickly for Natalia to react, and even as she steps back he grabs her, fury in his eyes as his hands--so big that he only really needs one to do the job--close around her throat.

 
 Spoiler: Natalia's rolls 
Knowledge (Architecture and engineering):  (d20+5)[ 17 ] 
he
Opposed Grapple:  (d20+8)[ 19 ] 
 


It's a vice-like grip around her throat, and even as Natalia struggles and gasps for air the huge orc lifts her off the ground with seemingly no effort.

 
 Spoiler: Admiral 
Well then. Her turn?
 
CoffeeIncluded
The Orc brings one hand back while the other tightens its grip around her throat. Natalia gasps and flails, ineffectually trying to pull his fingers off of her neck. And then she looks at him and through the throttle she gets an idea. Suspended in the air, Natalia swings her while body back and forth until she gets the momentum to drive her knee under the orc's chin, into his throat, swing her fist into the soft spots on the side of his head, smash the toe of her boot up between his legs and then swing it around into the side of his knee where ligaments pulled taut keep him standing.

 
 Spoiler: -Natalia's actions 
unarmed strike, five times thanks to TWF, improved TWF, and haste. It's a light weapon so weapon finesse and insightful strike. so going off when she was grappled by the drow...I hope I have this right. Can I see what happens before she does her swift action?

Attack 1:  (d20+11)[ 16 ] 
Crit:  (d20+11)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 6 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 13 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 5 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+11)[ 25 ] 
Crit:  (d20+11)[ 29 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 23 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 6 ] 

Attack 3:  (d20+11)[ 30 ] 
Crit:  (d20+11)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 6 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 25 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 6 ] 

Attack 4:  (d20+6)[ 23 ] 
Crit:  (d20+6)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 15 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 7 ] 

Attack 5:  (d20+6)[ 10 ] 
Crit:  (d20+6)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 6 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 23 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 6 ] 
 
Admiral
The orc wrestling with Natalia is able to dodge the first of the rogue's slashes, but the second two slice into him, though not as deep as Natalia would like.
CoffeeIncluded
 *Ghrrk!*  Natalia flails, frustration spiking as he squeezes. She grits her teeth and smashes her ankles together, activating the anklet and instantly teleporting her a few feet away where she stumbles on the ground but remains upright.

 "Hurry!"  she gasps, breathing heavily and gulping down every breath of air. She indicates the Orc in front of her that managed to get inside, and the two outside the burning walls.  "Cant keep him in, and they...chopping through outside!"  
 
 Spoiler: question 
was this ok to finish Natalia's round? Also, what did her knowledge architecture and engineering check get her?
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  *Ghrrk!*  Natalia flails, frustration spiking as he squeezes. She grits her teeth and smashes her ankles together, activating the anklet and instantly teleporting her a few feet away where she stumbles on the ground but remains upright.

 "Hurry!"  she gasps, breathing heavily and gulping down every breath of air. She indicates the Orc in front of her that managed to get inside, and the two outside the burning walls.  "Cant keep him in, and they...chopping through outside!"  
 
 Spoiler: question 
was this ok to finish Natalia's round? Also, what did her knowledge architecture and engineering check get her?
 
 
 

  Of course they are...   Rhenner's expression is grim as he runs forward and heals some of Kurt's earlier wounds.

 
 Spoiler 
Healing now in case Mithril would want to move the two of them away to get to the other orcs.
Master's Touch to CMW:  (2d8+14)[ 21 ] 
 
 Spoiler: Party's HP 
Kurt: 108/118
Natalia: 59/69, 10/120 fire absorbed
Mithril: 49/49
Rhenner: 59/59
Ian 74/83

Lesser Vigor: 4/20 rounds
 


EDIT: Oh, and Dodge against O5.
 
Cavelcade
Kurt glances around, his wits sharp as he hears the the thud of an axe on the walls, no doubt but that Natalia's correct in guessing their intention. There's a more immediate concern for him, but there  is  someone already outside the reach of the tentacles who might be able to do something about them.

 "Rhennar! Orcs to the left and right of the burning!"  His voice booms back to Rhennar focusing his attention on exactly where the orcs are, before focusing on the one that's trying to squeeze the life out of Natalia.  "And you!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Using White Raven Tactics to move Ian's next initiative to straight after Kurt's.

Power attack at -5/+10

Attack 1:
 (1d20+12)[ 24 ]  Attack
 (1d20+12)[ 18 ]  Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 26 ]  Attack +  (2d6)[ 10 ]  if evil.
 (2d6+17)[ 25 ]  Attack

Attack 2 (haste):
 (1d20+12)[ 13 ]  Attack
 (1d20+12)[ 23 ]  Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 26 ]  Attack +  (2d6)[ 5 ]  if evil.
 (2d6+17)[ 24 ]  Attack

Attack 3:
 (1d20+7)[ 23 ]  Attack
 (1d20+7)[ 24 ]  Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 22 ]  Attack +  (2d6)[ 4 ]  if evil.
 (2d6+17)[ 26 ]  Attack
 


Daybreaker whirls through the air around Natalia but never once touches her as he cleaves into the orc.  "Let go of my friend." 
Admiral
With his first, devastating swing, Kurt lays waste to the raging orc that had attacked Natalia.

 
 Spoiler 

Mithril and Rhenner's (extra) turn
 
CWater
Kurt's shout draws Rhenner's attention to the enemies.  "They won't for long."  With the last orc on this side of the tentacles fallen, he figures the warriors are more needed elsewhere.  "We can't let them break the wall!"  He picks up* his morningstar and activates its protective enchantment and is already chanting a spell as he quickly moves around Mithril and Natalia to make a better formation. Rhenner cringes slightly as a small piece of his energy is sapped to empower the short spell that places an enchantment on the weapon. It's finished a step before he reaches his aimed position, and immediately he begins casting another spell, this one of the teleportation school. Grabbing both fighters he moves them all to the other side of the wall.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
 Move action:  To O44.
 Free actions:  Draw weapon and allocate the Defending enchantment +1 to AC.
 Swift action:  Casting Blade of Blood (3d6 extra damage to the next attack that hits, Rhenner takes 5 damage) on the morningstar,  except  in case Admiral allows him to enchant Daybreaker instead. I'm not entirely sure if that is possible, since Rhenner is not the one holding that weapon, but he is close enough to be able to touch it so... It's up to the DM.
 Standard action:  Casting Dimension Door, placing Kurt in S42, Rhenner in S41 and Natalia in T41. Sorry Cavelcade, that the orc is going to get a chance to hit Kurt before he does, but Rhenner figures it's most important to save the wall right now. Kurt's tough, he should make it! :) Of Rhenner himself, I'm less certain.😛

Mithril can also reach Rhenner to come along if she likes or stay behind, whichever she prefers. If she chooses to move, she'll be behind Kurt in T42.

 Non-action:  Dodge against O5.

Yeah, I'm making full use of this extra round.

*I'm still unsure of how to describe this motion really. I mean, you don't actually 'draw' a morningstar do you?
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Moving to K46 and casting Cloud of Knives
 


Mithril shook herself out of the stupor she had been standing in, backing up from the wall a little.  In preparation for the inevitable breakthrough she summoned the swirling knives to surround her head.
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

1. Rhenner can absolutely enchant Daybreaker (assuming Kurt lets him- it would be different to enchant something an enemy was holding). So as per CWater's instructions, that's the action!

2. Another Mithril turn, another chunk o' damage for O2:  (5d6)[ 23 ] 
 


The orc standing before Ian is badly injured by the sorcerer's swing. The mage waves his hand, and Ian is surprised by black tentacles springing out from under his feet and behind him.

 
 Spoiler 

He'd hoped to use that on the party but Ian's backed him into a corner. Grapple check for Ian vs  (1d20+19)[ 37 ]  or he's grappled by them.

Gotta run a quick errand, other orcs' turn right when I get back.
 
Admiral
The other orc tries to escape again from Mithril's wall of grasping limbs.

 
 Spoiler 

Str check:  (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
 


The sound of axes gets stronger against the wood.

 
 Spoiler 

Some simplified checks:
O7:  (2d6+12)[ 24 ] 
O9:  (2d6+12)[ 20 ] 
 
Admiral
One of the orcs breaks free of the wall of arms, and races around the tentacles his ally had conjured.

 
 Spoiler 

Lucky in some sense for the tentacles, got in the way of O2 coming after Ian.

O2 is wounded but not quite bloodied.
 


The orcs are startled when the three warriors appear behind them. One of them turns with his greataxe and swings twice; the other has to drop his longbow on the ground just to draw his own axe before attacking.

 
 Spoiler 

They both aim their axes at the same target. But which one? 1 it's Kurt, 2 it's Rhenner.  (1d2)[ 2 ] 

O9:

Attack:  (1d20+14)[ 24 ]  Critical:  (1d20+14)[ 34 ]  -4
Damage:  (1d12+16)[ 22 ]  Critical:  (1d12+16)[ 24 ]   (1d12+16)[ 21 ]   (1d12+16)[ 23 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 16 ]  Critical:  (1d20+9)[ 14 ]  -4
Damage:  (1d12+16)[ 24 ]  Critical:  (1d12+16)[ 22 ]   (1d12+16)[ 23 ]   (1d12+16)[ 28 ] 

O5:

Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 18 ]  Critical:  (1d20+10)[ 27 ]  -6
Damage:  (1d12+16)[ 22 ]  Critical:  (1d12+16)[ 27 ]   (1d12+16)[ 26 ]   (1d12+16)[ 18 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia is as always slightly disoriented when Rhenner's spell deposits them outside the burning wall, but she recovers faster this time. Still, she considers herself fortunate that neither orc attacks her. And they seem just as surprised. Good. She breaths in and out, and with her exhalation Natalia pulls the shadows over herself, winking from view. In the same moment she steps forward and launches a flurry of five strikes--punches and kicks to injured tissues, soft spots of the head, weight-bearing ligaments that hold the knee together.

 
 Spoiler: Natalia's action 
Natalia turns invisible with Cloak of Deception (heheh, Kurt's never seen this one before!) as a swift action, 5 foot steps to S40, and starts punching O5 (she dropped her bow earlier and sadly she doesn't have hidden blade sheaths or anything). If he's a barbarian then remove the sneak attack damage.

Don't forget that any orc in range of Kurt who attacks anyone else takes a -4 penalty because he's in Iron Guard's Glare!

Attack 1:  (d20+17)[ 20 ] 
Crit:  (d20+17)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 24 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 7 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+17)[ 36 ] 
Crit:  (d20+17)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 22 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 5 ] 

Attack 3:  (d20+17)[ 28 ] 
Crit:  (d20+17)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 29 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 6 ] 

Attack 4:  (d20+12)[ 18 ] 
Crit:  (d20+12)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 6 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 21 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 7 ] 

Attack 5:  (d20+12)[ 13 ] 
Crit:  (d20+12)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 5 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 22 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 6 ] 
 


On her last kick (an attempt to sweep the orc off his feet that goes completely wide and nearly knocks Natalia herself off-balance), Natalia snaps back into view as if she never vanished at all.
Admiral
The first three of Natalia's blows land, though through the instinct of battle the barbarian is able to avoid Natalia's attempts to turn them fatal.

 
 Spoiler 

O5 is bloodied.
 
CWater
Being slightly late in adjusting to the new placement by his own spell, the first enemy axe swing comes very close at slashing Rhenner, but on the last second the orc is distracted by Kurt's powerful presence and the cleric is able to evade the blow. He manages to block the other attacks as well, then moves rises his morningstar to strike back, his movement made faster by Mithril's earlier spell. After he takes a step back out of the melee.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
 Free action:  Cancel Morningstar's Defending, +1 enchantment back to attack.

 Standard action:  Attacking O5.
Attack 1:
 (1d20+10)[ 20 ] 
 (1d8+3)[ 4 ] 

Attack 2: (haste)
 (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 
 (1d8+3)[ 9 ] 

Attack 3:
 (1d20+5)[ 9 ] 
 (1d8+3)[ 9 ] 

I believe this is the first time ever Rhenner has attacked 3 times in one round😛
(though he's still not that good at it ^^')

 Misc action:  5 ft. step to T40.
 Non-action:  Dodge against O9.
 
Admiral
One of Rhenner's swings smashes into the orc's flesh, but the second bounces harmlessly off his armor and the third misses.
Athedia
Mithril moved toward the center of the hole, looking out at where the warmage had escaped the writhing arms.  Raising a hand she shot out five orbs of force, each racing straight for the warmage.  Her other hand had retrieved the rod from her side and quickly activated it as she cast.

 
 Spoiler 
Move: O47
Move (Haste): Retrieve Rod of Empower
SA: Cast Magic Missile x1.5
Damage:  (5d4+5)[ 16 ] *1.5 = [24] 
 
Cavelcade
Kurt doesn't hesitate to strike as soon as the effect of travelling wears off, targeting the orc Natalia had wounded, frowning at the impassable straight line between him and the one who's still attacking the wall.

 
 Spoiler 

Power attack, -5/+10. No other effects, just going to attack three times. If the first orc dies, the other attacks are aimed at his buddy (that's allowed, right?).

Attack 1:
 (1d20+12)[ 17 ]  Attack
 (1d20+12)[ 21 ]  Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 21 ]  +  (2d6)[ 7 ]  if evil. Attack
 (2d6+17)[ 22 ]  Crit

Attack 2:
 (1d20+12)[ 14 ]  Attack
 (1d20+12)[ 29 ]  Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 25 ]  +  (2d6)[ 7 ]  if evil. Attack
 (2d6+17)[ 25 ]  Crit

Attack 3:
 (1d20+7)[ 24 ]  Attack
 (1d20+7)[ 17 ]  Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 20 ]  +  (2d6)[ 4 ]  if evil. Attack
 (2d6+17)[ 22 ]  Crit
 
Admiral
Kurt swings thrice at one of the orcs battling them. His first two swings miss, but the third lands true. The edge of Daybreaker glints as it metes out justice to the evil, and the orc collapses.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril moved toward the center of the hole, looking out at where the warmage had escaped the writhing arms.  Raising a hand she shot out five orbs of force, each racing straight for the warmage.  Her other hand had retrieved the rod from her side and quickly activated it as she cast.

 
 Spoiler 
Move: O47
Move (Haste): Retrieve Rod of Empower
SA: Cast Magic Missile x1.5
Damage:  (9d6+1)[ 32 ] *1.5 = [24] 
 
 
 

The warmage recoils as the spell strikes him. Snarling, he grabs something from a pouch at his side, then tosses a small ball back towards her. The flames explode around the wizard, adding to the already burning wall.

 
 Spoiler 

Fireball just on Mithril,  (9d6+1)[ 32 ]  damage (warmage edge). DC 17 for half.
 
Admiral
The warmage shouts out something in his native tongue. The orc fighting Kurt, Rhenner and Natalia steps away from the wall.

 
 Spoiler 
Kurt, Rhenner and Natalia each get an AoO for O9's movement into T41. Please roll that then I'll play out the rest of the action.
 


Mithril sees a chunk fall from the wall- the orc on the left side of the gap has broken a hole into the burning wall. She sees enraged eyes peering through at her as an axe widens the hole.

 
 Spoiler 

Mithril's guessing O7 will be able to burst through next round.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia kicks out at the orc trying to run past them.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Unclear if he's got too many barbarian levels to flank or sneak attack with. If this is the case, please subtract 2 from my attack roll (I'm adding in the flanking) and remove the sneak attack.

Attack:  (d20+19)[ 34 ] 
Crit:  (d20+19)[ 33 ] 
Damage:  (d3+4)[ 5 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 23 ] 
Crit damage:  (d3+4)[ 7 ] 
 


As she snaps back into balance, an explosion followed by the sound of falling timber makes her snap her attention over to the other side, where she gasps at what brief glimpse she can get through the tentacles.
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Much ouch.  Some avoidance? 
Reflex Save:  (1d20+9)[ 16 ]  EDIT: As Coffee just pointed out Haste gives a +1 to Ref saves apparently.  So the new total is  [17] 
Does she still have damage from the dragon.  It has been a while and I am unsure of total health.

EDIT:  Went back for fun math time.  Rhenner healed Mithril up to full (plus the belt) so that leaves... 47-32=15... okay yeah.  Ouch.

I will describe once her turn comes up.  Today is just not Mithril's day.  On the other hand, lets be glad Kia and Vinca aren't here or this would ALL be on fire.
 
CWater
Rhenner tries to hit the orc as he runs past.

 
 Spoiler: AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 28 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 9 ] 
 

 "Stop that mage!",  he shouts when a new blast of fire erupts.
Cavelcade
Kurt pulls the blade out of his foe's throat with a grisly noise, continuing the motion in the direction of the fleeing enemies.

 
 Spoiler 

 (1d20+12)[ 16 ] 
 (1d20+12)[ 21 ] 
 (2d6+17)[ 23 ]  +  (2d6)[ 4 ] 
 (2d6+17)[ 25 ] 
 
Admiral
As the orc steps past Natalia, he pivots on his foot to face the rogue. Then he tilts forward and headbutts her in the chest, using his weight to push her backwards- into the grasping tentacles.

 
 Spoiler 

Bull Rush attempt to push Natalia into R39. Str check opposed by her:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 As the orc steps past Natalia, he pivots on his foot to face the rogue. Then he tilts forward and headbutts her in the chest, using his weight to push her backwards- into the grasping tentacles.

 
 Spoiler 

Bull Rush attempt to push Natalia into R39. Str check opposed by her:  (d20)[ 4 ] 
 
 
 

Natalia's not expecting this, and it's like trying to resist an oncoming cart. She screams out for help as she staggers backwards--and the air is forced out of her lungs as the tentacles pull her down.

 
 Spoiler: rolls 
ah. That would do it. improved bull rush, I take it?

Strength check:  (d20)[ 4 ] 

I think I'm gonna wait to see what Mithril does.
 
Cavelcade
Kurt takes a step too late to be of help to Natalia, sparing a glance for the waif as she's dragged into the crushing black ass before taking his revenge, his muscles pulsing with power as his companions are used to. Instead of his personal demons driving his keen blade through the flesh of those before him, this time the force seems more benign, controlled and much more powerful.

 
 Spoiler 

5' Step to get close

Kurt uses divine surge! ......let's see how it goes. The extra 2d6 in the first attack come from daybreaker. I'm not sure if the 8d8 would count if this crits, but I think it would?

 (1d20+17)[ 36 ] 
 (1d20+17)[ 36 ] 
 (4d6+7)[ 20 ]  +  (8d8)[ 31 ] 
 (2d6+7)[ 11 ]  +  (8d8)[ 29 ] 

Aw yeah, confirmed crit!
 


The sound of steel rending armour, flesh, bone and organs is loud enough to be heard even above the roaring flames and confusion of the battlefield as he brings his holy blade to bear against his foe. As the blow lands, just for a moment anyone looking at the dwarf sees a confusing double image of the dwarf, yes, but superimposed on him is another pair of hands, another set of armour, another blade being brought to bear...but only for a moment, before his own does its grisly business before him and its just Kurt, panting, with a dead orc in front of him.
Admiral
Kurt channels the divine power of his faith, where it adds to and amplifies the righteous strength of his inherited sword Daybreaker. With this power, he cannot help but strike true. The crusader drives the blade straight through the barbarian's breastplate and into his heart, slaying him instantly.

 
 Spoiler 

Cavelcade, whenever you're ready (perhaps at the end of this battle) you are welcome to trade another Barbarian level for a Crusader level. 200 bonus XP.
 
CWater
Rhenner's eyes widen when the image of the other dwarf manifests around Kurt, he blinks and the apparition is gone.   What... was that?  

There's no time to wonder about it though, Natalia is caught by the tentacles, the orc on the other side is about to break through the wall and the others advance. He has to quickly decide what to do, and trusting that Natalia can get herself out trouble Rhenner runs past the swarming appendages, putting his trust in Fharlanghan's blessing that he'll know how to dodge them. He makes his way to the other side of the wall that the orc is cutting down and retrieves a scroll to cast a spell. Its enchantment is not that strong, but it's worth a try.

 
 Spoiler 
 Non-action:  Activate Freedom of Movement, 5/6 rounds left.
 Move action:  To L44. He's trying to block the way from the orc that is trying to break through.  Very  smart thing to do for someone with his Constitution.😏
 Standard action:  Casting Hold Person on O7 from scroll. Will save DC...13? I guess.
 


ETA:
 
 Spoiler: Oh yeah, Vigor's still working 
HP:

Kurt: 109/118
Natalia: 60/69, 10/120 fire absorbed
Mithril: 36/51
Rhenner: 55/59

Lesser Vigor: 5/20 rounds
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 
O7 Will save:  (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
 


Rhenner's spell is no match for the fury of the barbarian smashing through the walls.
Athedia
Mithril released one of the knives surrounding her at the orc peeking through the wall.  Turning she released the magic holding the further tentacles in the world.  These two jobs done she retreated from the open space, hoping to avoid an further fireballs cast by the mage.

 
 Spoiler 
Cloud of Knives:
Attack:  (1d20+14)[ 18 ] 
Crit (19/20):  (1d20+14)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 

SA: Dismiss the top BT

Move to S44
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia struggles and pulls against the vines. Even as some withdraw into the ground leaving cracked earth behind the others still hold her taut.

 
 Spoiler 
grapple check:  (d20+8)[ 11 ] 
 
Admiral
With a crash the barbarian bursts through the wall, ready to turn his axe on Rhenner.

 
 Spoiler 

Orc took just a bit of damage shoving through that burning wall like that:  (1d6)[ 6 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+15)[ 33 ]  Critical:  (1d20+15)[ 31 ] 
Damage:  (1d12+15)[ 18 ]  Critical:  (1d12+15)[ 27 ]   (1d12+15)[ 23 ]   (1d12+15)[ 26 ] 
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

BTW, rolled one too many Crit damage dice on the last one, not that it matters. Looks like 18 damage?
 


As Mithril hides, the warmage turns his attention to Kurt and Natalia. He steps over slightly, then points his finger straight towards them.

A powerful bolt of lightning blasts through both of the warriors. The hairs on Mithril's neck stand as the bolt blasts a hole through the wooden wall, just a few feet from her ear.

 
 Spoiler 

Sudden Empowered Lightning Bolt. 1.5 *  (9d6+1)[ 31 ]  = 45 damage to Kurt and Natalia, with Reflex save DC 17 for half. Just missed Mithril.

Let's all be thankful for our class features. Good luck.

No penalty to Reflex for being grappled.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia strains against the bonds, crying out in pain as the tentacles pull her limbs in four separate directions and she feels her joints cry out against the strain. She hangs there, suspended in the air, bound by her wrists and ankles, helpless as the orc fires lightning at her and Kurt.

The lightning blast is immediate and overwhelming. Natalia cries out silently, arching her back as the element she knows most grabs her, twists the colors she feels into something new and unknown, seizes her muscles and plays hopscotch with her heart. The rogue strains, gasping in pain as she tries to touch the ground and discharge the lightning coursing through her body.

 
 Spoiler: Reflex save 
Thank god for Natalia's class abilities.
Reflex:  (d20+22)[ 34 ]  Hah! Finally something good happened today (NOT a comment about the game)!
 


Her limbs tremble and her fingers seize and twitch, but Natalia is able to, just for a split second, tap the toe of her boot against the ground. It's enough, and the lightning crackling around her form harmlessly discharges into the ground in a instant. She breaths deep, catching her breath as she relaxes in the tentacles slightly, muscles still occasionally twitching from the discharged electricity, but otherwise unharmed.
Admiral
The orc standing next to the warmage fires an arrow at Natalia, before re-drawing his axe.

 
 Spoiler 

One more shot. (Note that Natalia is flat-footed).

O2:  (1d20+13)[ 24 ]  Critical:  (1d20+13)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 6 ]  Critical:  (1d8+3)[ 9 ]   (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 

Then party's turn.
 
CWater
As the barbarian crashes through the wall Rhenner tries to whack him with the morningstar.

 
 Spoiler: AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
 


The orc retaliates fast and with much greater strength, and the axe hits Rhenner in the chest. It doesn't draw blood, but he can feel the hit break his ribs, armour be damned. But the bright burst of light and the sound of cracking wood draws his attention to the other side of the battlefield.   Everyone have gotten somewhat battered by now...   The cleric backs away from the enemy to get closer to the others, casting a strong healing spell.  "Wise Fharlanghn, grant Your blessing and help us fight longer, to protect this home from invaders." 
 
 Spoiler: Action 
 Non-action:  Keeping Dodge assigned to O7.
 Move action:  To P44. The enemy gets an AoO, AC is 29 against that one (Mobility, Haste, Dodge and Defending counted together).
 Standard action:  Break Enchantment to Cure Light Wounds, Mass. Everyone in the party heal  (1d8+20)[ 27 ] .
 

 
 Spoiler: HP 
Kurt: 114/118
Natalia: 69/69, 10/120 fire absorbed
Mithril: 51/51
Rhenner: 59/59* depends on that AoO...

Lesser Vigor: 6/20 rounds
 
Cavelcade
Kurt looks around just as the lightning bolt crashes through him, gritting his teeth as he feels the flesh crackle on his arms, his eyes flicking in the direction of the spellcaster now that his own foe has fallen.

 "This mage has got to go..."  He  leaves the orc within the wall to the others and runs around the flailing tentacles towards the warmage causing so many problems.
Cavelcade
 
 Spoiler 
Coffee reminded me of haste's effects, like moving twice as fast. Kurt smash!

If he takes an AoO to get there so be it. If he can charge with no tentacles he will, adjust appropriately.
 


Moving as a blur, Kurt brings his blade with him, dragging it up the slow moving air in a deadly arc.

 
 Spoiler 

Power attack -6/+12, steely resolve +2/+2.

[Roll]1d20+13 [/roll]
[Roll]1d20+13 [/roll]

 (2d6+21)[ 25 ]  +  (2d6)[ 7 ]  if evil.
 (2d6+21)[ 24 ] 
 
Admiral
Kurt races into battle with the speed granted by Mithril's spell, and swings his axe deep into the mage's chest.

 
 Spoiler 

Warmage is bloodied. Kurt was able to get there without an AoO.

Mithril and Natalia left, I believe.
 
Athedia
Mithril pulled back her magic from the second black tentacles, leaving the hole in the gate open but Natalia free. This done she ran deeper into the town, using a building as shelter.   
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move to V53, after dismissing BT
 
CoffeeIncluded
The tentacles binding Natalia suddenly vanish, unceremoniously dropping her to the bloodstained earth. She scrambles to her feet, spares a glance behind her to see an Orc burst through and mithril on the run, and chases after Kurt. She draws her blades and easily ducks around the Orc with the axe to join him in battle with the warmage. Leftover electricity crackles around Natalia and she casts it into the little bird-like elemental that crackles and rears up behind the warmage.   I can use lightning too,"   she thinks as she tries to plunge her dagger into the caster's eye.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
natalia runs up, draws weapons, auto passes any tumble check to avoid an aoo, the. Uses distracting sparks to flank sneak attack the warmage. With the magic weapon and weapon focus from swordaage and the flank yes yer attack bonus is this high right now. Sorry for typoes, hands are frozen.

Attack:  (d20+21)[ 27 ] 
Crit:  (d20+21)[ 35 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 25 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 7 ] 
 
Admiral
Natalia races forward and slashes into the mage Kurt has already wounded.

The warmage grunts something to the other barbarian. To Natalia's surprise he doesn't swing his axe at her, but rather sweeps his leg under the rogue.

 
 Spoiler 

Improved Trip check, opposed by her Str check.  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The orc's leg sweep momentarily catches Natalia off guard, but she's able to immediately react. She hops to one side and retaliate by trying to hook her ankle behind the orc's own knee while he's standing on one leg.

 
 Spoiler: Natalia's actions 
ok so I think the rules say that Natalia can use a strength or dex check to oppose the trip, so she used dex. either way she rolled a natural 19 (24 if adding dex) so she made it and is upright! Can she make a retaliatory trip without consequences? If so, then:

Retaliatory attempt:  (d20)[ 6 ] 

EDIT: awe, she thinks she can outmuscle an Orc. Isn't that cute? 😛

If not then please ignore!
 
Admiral
Natalia manages to dodge the orc's leg, nimbly hopping over it. She even tries to use a quick kick to knock him off balance as well, but the orc doesn't budge.

The mage shouts out a sentence in his native tongue, then carefully retreats from the battle, taking cover behind a nearby tree.

 
 Spoiler 

Withdraw action for O1, no AoOs.
 


At the same time, the barbarian behind the walls races forward, chasing after Mithril and bearing down on the defenseless mage, snarling an awful grin.

 
 Spoiler 

With a double move, he's just barely able to reach her (not attack her). See map.

Party's turn.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Kurt! Orc inside! He after Rhenner, Mithril!"  Her voice cracks and with that she's off, racing after the warmage. Electricity leftover from his spell crackles off her, and natalia pulls it out of her and forms it into a shape. The bird like lightning elemental crackles and swipes at the warmage long enough for her to attack.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
the warmage is just 60 feet away. NOW Natalia uses distracting sparks. Sneak attack!

Attack:  (d20+21)[ 34 ] 
Crit:  (d20+21)[ 40 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 8 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 18 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 10 ] 
 
Athedia
Mithril stepped back quickly from the orc, surprise and fear quickly being replaced with a smirk.   "Bye-bye"   With a quick word she disappeared from in front of the angry barbarian and appeared on top of the roof of a nearby building.

 
 Spoiler 
5 foot step, whichever way AWAY.  Then DD onto K62
 
Cavelcade
Kurt rushes across the short distance between him and the remaining orc, having to trust that the two spellcasters can look after their own worries while he and Natalia take care of the two remaining out here. Focus on the task at hand, he can only deal with one attack at a time. The blade can only move one way for each action of his strong hands.

 
 Spoiler 

Charge: +2 attack/-2 AC.
Power Attack: -6/+12
Haste: +1
Divine surge: +8d8

 (1d20+13)[ 29 ]  Attack
 (1d20+13)[ 24 ]  Crit

 (2d6+19)[ 27 ]  +  (6d8)[ 28 ]  =  55  +  (2d6)[ 8 ]  (if evil) =  63  +  (3d6)[ 14 ]  =  77  (if blade of blood is active) Attack
 (2d6+19)[ 27 ]  Crit
 
Admiral
Kurt again channels his faith through his blade, and strikes a devastating blow against the barbarian. The orc, already wounded by Mithril's earlier spell, falls dead.

 
 Spoiler 

Rhenner's turn.
 
CWater
The orc chasing after Mithril has Rhenner worried for a moment, but then the wizard materialises on the other roof. The two warriors don't seem to be in need of any assistance either, so Rhenner heads towards the guard tower that was hit by fire earlier.  "Lander!",  he shouts inside,  "How are they?!" 
 
 Spoiler 
With Haste, it takes just the move action to get there, what he does next depends on how things seem there and/or if he gets a reply right away.

 
 Spoiler: HP 
Kurt: 115/118
Natalia: 69/69, 10/120 fire absorbed
Mithril: 51/51
Rhenner: 59/59

Lesser Vigor: 7/20 rounds
 

 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The orc chasing after Mithril has Rhenner worried for a moment, but then the wizard materialises on the other roof. The two warriors don't seem to be in need of any assistance either, so Rhenner heads towards the guard tower that was hit by fire earlier.  "Lander!",  he shouts inside,  "How are they?!" 
 
 Spoiler 
With Haste, it takes just the move action to get there, what he does next depends on how things seem there and/or if he gets a reply right away.

 
 Spoiler: HP 
Kurt: 115/118
Natalia: 69/69, 10/120 fire absorbed
Mithril: 51/51
Rhenner: 59/59

Lesser Vigor: 7/20 rounds
 

 
 
 

 "Could use your help!"  comes the elf's response from the tower, in what sounds like an urgent whisper. It's clear he doesn't want to the tower to regain the mage's attention.
CWater
Rhenner follows Lander's voice.

 
 Spoiler 
What type of tower is it? I mean, does it have stairs or ladders, or how does one get to the top?

Just asking so I can picture it better, I believe this concludes Rhenner's turn.
 
Admiral
The warmage leans back to avoid Natalia's blades as he casts a spell. Thick black tentacles spring out from under the rogue, once again trying to grab her.

 
 Spoiler 

You knew it was coming, from our alternate reality.

Grapple check from Natalia, vs  (1d20+18)[ 33 ] . Afraid that Protection From Evil doesn't help (helps only from AC and saves, not attack/grapple rolls).

Whether it catches her or not he's going to then move away from her, see map. If it doesn't catch her Natalia gets an AoO (though no sneak attack).
 


As Mithril disappears, the barbarian looks around for a moment, before quickly giving up and racing back at the hole in the wall, maneuvering through to make his escape from the town.

Rhenner steps into the tower and races up the stone steps after he hears Lander's voice, the speed of his steps augmented by Mithril's spell. When he reaches the top, he sees a gruesome sight: three guards horribly burned by the warmage's spell. The combat cleric immediately recognizes that the charred elf in the corner is dead. A human with a crossbow crouches in the corner- he's badly scarred but alive and alert.

Lander crouches next to an unconscious half-elf guard in the center of the room. Lander keeps his hands on the guard's chest, gently pushing in and out, keeping him breathing. Lander glances up at Rhenner with a severe expression.

 
 Spoiler 

Once Natalia's rolled, party's turn.

Lander is doing his best to keep that guard stabilized in the low negatives; Rhenner's quick guess is somewhere around -9 to -7.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia gasps as the vines grab her again, crushing her limbs and slowly pulling her apart. She struggles, flailing in the air but once again unable to find purchase.  "MITHRIL! KURT!"  she screams.  "ESCAPING!" 
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Yeah no way Natalia's going to escape from this as a reaction. Anyone have a Dispel prepared?

As her turn she's gonna try to escape with Shadow Jaunt, though she's only getting out on a Nat 20. And she'll try to grapple again I guess I'll roll those after this post?

Grapple:  (d20+8)[ 15 ] 

Better this than Phantasmal Killer though!
 
CWater
Rhenner doesn't waste time but hurries to the injured guard's side and places a hand on his shoulder to channel some divine healing. He nods to Lander.  "Good work, you saved his life." 
 
 Spoiler 
Energy Vulnerability to CSW:  (3d8+16)[ 29 ] 

The last part is assuming that the half-elf responds to the healing and didn't suddenly reach -10 and die. :J
 

 "The fire mage was still alive, but retreating last I looked, my friends were giving him trouble. One attacker got into the town, but that's all I know of. Do you see what became of them?",  he asks the guard still on his feet.  "I'll look at those wounds in a moment." 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia struggles and strains against her bonds that cut off her circulation and make even the very air feel numb and cold and black and blue.  "DON'T LET ESCAPE!" 
 
 Spoiler: Grapple attempt: 
 (d20+8)[ 22 ] 
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

Grapple from tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 27 ] 
 
Cavelcade
Kurt looks up at Natalia's shout, puffing a little from the sheer speed he's been moving at with Mithril's magical aid, but he doesn't let up yet. This attack has to be put down and put down hard go give the little village time to rebuild its defenses. He strains against the drag of the air as he rushes around the tentacles, cutting back inward and sliding to a stop facing the warmage, but cutting off his straight retreat.  "Not this way." 
 
 Spoiler 
Kurt moves to I24 as his first move action, then to L16 as his second, taking an AoO from the warmage. Oh and he should have gotten a maneuver at the end of the last round, and gets the other one now, so at the end of the next round they'll reset.

Hurray for haste.
 
Admiral
The warmage is startled by Kurt's sudden appearance. In desperation he twists his hand and calls forth a field of tentacles much like the kind that trapped Natalia. He then turns and begins running away around the tentacles.

 
 Spoiler 

Hey, he has 4 L4s in a day. Enemies are under no obligation to vary their spells up any more than PCs are 🙂

Kurt's grapple check against:

Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 22 ] 

If Kurt succeeds on the tentacles, he still gets an AoO when the warmage runs away.
 


The other orc races away from the town to join the mage.

 
 Spoiler 

O7 does full-round Run.

Party's turn. Here's the roll against Natalia's tentacles:

Tentacles:  (1d20+18)[ 20 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia growls and strains against the tentacles, trying to break free.

 
 Spoiler: grapple 
 (d20+6)[ 15 ] 
Back to work.

I'm sorry.
 
Cavelcade
Kurt grunts in surprise at a second eruption of tentacles from the ground, thrown off balance for a moment as they try to wrap him up, slitering uncomfortably around his limbs. Cursing as he yanks his right arm free, pushing away with his legs as rips the other off his left arm, turning with fire in his eyes to face the fleeing warmage, just in time to thrust his blade at his fleeing body.

 
 Spoiler 

AoO so no chance to power attack or anything, so regular modifiers.

 (1d20+17)[ 36 ]  Attack
 (1d20+17)[ 19 ]  Crit

 (2d6+7)[ 12 ]  + (2d6)[ 10 ]  (if evil) Attack
 (2d6+7)[ 17 ]  Crit
 
Admiral
Kurt pulls out of the tentacles just in time to plunge his blade into the fleeing mage. Daybreaker glows as it strikes the orc's heart, and he falls, slain.

 
 Spoiler 

Confirmed crit!

One orc left (O7), non-bloodied.
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner doesn't waste time but hurries to the injured guard's side and places a hand on his shoulder to channel some divine healing. He nods to Lander.  "Good work, you saved his life." 
 
 Spoiler 
Energy Vulnerability to CSW: [roll0]

The last part is assuming that the half-elf responds to the healing and didn't suddenly reach -10 and die. :J
 
 
 

The half-elf's burns heal before Rhenner's eyes, and he gasps as he returns to consciousness. With a grunt he sits up.  "...thank you..."  he whispers.

 
 Spoiler 

The guard is still slightly wounded but no longer critical or even bloodied.
 


  "The fire mage was still alive, but retreating last I looked, my friends were giving him trouble. One attacker got into the town, but that's all I know of. Do you see what became of them?",  he asks the guard still on his feet.  "I'll look at those wounds in a moment."  

The other guard looks cautiously out onto the battlefield.  "Giving him trouble, indeed..."  he replies.  "Looks like the last of them is fleeing. But one of your allies is trapped." 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia cries out in pain as the tentacles wrap around her limbs to crush them and pull them apart. Through the haze of springy green threatening to turn to brittle brown felt inside her own body she sees Kurt wrench himself free and cut down the warmage.  "Go! Go! I...fine for now!"  she cheers as she struggles against the tentacles holding her aloft.

 
 Spoiler: grapple checks 
grapple 1:  (d20+8)[ 26 ] 
Grapple 2:  (d20+3)[ 10 ] 
Let's see what happens, and back to work for me!
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

Matched grapple checks:

 (1d20+18)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 34 ] 

Hey, look at that, Natalia's free!
 
CoffeeIncluded
As the tentacles shift up Natalia's arms to pull closer to her joints, she senses her chance. She strains against a weak point, where the tentacles themselves feel less tight. There's a seam where two of them twist together; she jams a closed hand in between and forces her fingers open, creating a gap. That's enough to wedge her other hand, then her head. and then she's free, falling unceremoniously to the ground.

Natalia pulls herself up, ducking underneath the flailing tentacles and gripping her blades as she races towards the last raider.

 
 Spoiler: move action 
i got so lucky! Anyway I think Natalia can move as far as q17 so she'll do that.
 
Cavelcade
Kurt struggles against the old rage flowing through him as the black tentacles try again and again to wrap around him as he pushes through them towards the final orc, not allowing it to overwhelm him and render him witless - as he moves instead he puts aside Daybreaker and takes out his other blade, positioning himself between the orc and escape with gritted teeth.

 "Yield." 
 
 Spoiler 

Move action first: put away daybreaker.

Move action second: draw merciful greatsword while moving to S15. I think he can do it without taking an AoO by going via R14, if not he'll take the AoO.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The half-elf's burns heal before Rhenner's eyes, and he gasps as he returns to consciousness. With a grunt he sits up.  "...thank you..."  he whispers.

 
 Spoiler 

The guard is still slightly wounded but no longer critical or even bloodied.
 
 
 

 "Back to the land of the living",  Rhenner greets the guard with a friendly clap on the shoulder,  "Try to take it easy for a while."  He then goes to check on the injured human.


 The other guard looks cautiously out onto the battlefield.  "Giving him trouble, indeed..."  he replies.  "Looks like the last of them is fleeing. But one of your allies is trapped."  

 "Better trapped than dead",  Rhenner glances down,  "Guess she made it out. I thought Mithil unsummoned those horrific things already... oh well..."  He concentrates to cast a spell on this guard as well, and also hands him a potion.  "This spell takes a couple of minutes to take full effect, drink that if you'll suddenly need fast healing, or if some of the burns are not fully healed. I need to head back down." 
 
 Spoiler 
Casting Lesser Vigor on the human. He'll heal 17 HP in 15 rounds.
Rhenner also gives him a CLW potion.
 
Admiral
The barbarian glances at the two warriors that approaching him, before turning and racing away.

 
 Spoiler 

He uses a full-round Run action, but does it in the "right-ward" direction on the map, along the town's wall. This gets him 160 feet away. I won't expand the map unless you give chase.

He takes an AoO from Kurt but not Natalia, who can't quite reach him where he is now.
 
Athedia
Mithril sat on the roof.  Using the spell to get up here had sounded like a great idea at the time.  Not so much anymore.  Well... better stuck up here than dead by barbarian down there.  She made a mental note to herself that if she survived this all houses she owned would have rope ladders stored on the roof.  And maybe a comfortable seat.  Peering over the edge she tried to estimate the distance to the ground.

 
 Spoiler 
Okay, yes I have another DDoor according to my notes.  But this scenario is too funny to pass up.
 
Cavelcade
Kurt lashes out with his blade as the orc rejects his offer, if he understood it, the edge magically blunt.

 
 Spoiler 

 (1d20+17)[ 29 ]  Attack
 (1d20+17)[ 34 ]  Crit

 (2d6+7)[ 17 ]  +  (1d6)[ 1 ]  Attack
 (2d6+7)[ 16 ]  Crit
 
CoffeeIncluded
Kurt's one word makes Natalia also pause as she looks down at her blades. Right...of course. In the moment of battle she forgot, but Kurt didn't. He wouldn't anymore. He's changed so much.

As the Orc flees she turns to him and asks,  "...let run, kill, or catch?" 
Admiral
Kurt's blade strikes the fleeing orc, leaving a clean wound that weakens the barbarian but does not threaten his life.

 
 Spoiler 

Not yet bloodied
 
Cavelcade
 "Well, I'm not going to let him get away if I can help it."  He speeds after the orc with all haste then, getting up beside him again with surprising ease, his face stern as he looks at him and says again.  "Yield!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Run action to get into the square just in front of the orc (wherever it is he's gone to).
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia nods.  "Right!"  She takes off running, Mithril's spell allowing her to practically glide over the earth. It hurts at first, her stretched-out limbs protesting at the movement, but as she races along Rhenner's healing magic helps her joints settle back into place. Slim spidery fingers replace the lethal daggers with sand-filled saps, which Natalia grips in her hands as she skids to a stop behind the orc, opposite Kurt. They shouldn't kill, but they'll still hurt.

 "Surrender!"  she shouts, and now the adrenaline starts to fade, now she prays that for once he'll actually accept.

 
 Spoiler: Natalia's action 
Run to flank the orc with Kurt. Also, she draws her saps to deal non-lethal damage.
 
CWater
Rhenner runs back to the stairs to get down again.
Admiral
His teeth clenched, the orc again races away from the warriors, into the woods, letting each of them take another strike as he flees.

Just then, each feels the magic of Mithril's spell of speed disappear.

 
 Spoiler 

AoO from Natalia and Kurt.

I counted through IC very carefully and I'm pretty sure it's actually been 12 rounds since Mithril's Haste spell, so we're having it run out a little late! Kurt has a barbarian level and therefore +10 speed so if he keeps chasing he can keep up, but Natalia cannot with speed 30. (She can Run 120 feet, or Shadow Jaunt + move for 80).
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia's teeth are also clenched in frustration as she smacks the butt of her short sword on the shoulder of the fleeing Orc.  "Can't escape!"  she shouts as she tries to chase after the Orc, only to find herself sluggish and...not sluggish, just no longer lightning swift as Mithril's spell of swiftness finally runs out. she curses in frustration and reaches for her bow...that's lying on the ground back inside the broken walls.

 "Dammit!"  she screams.  "Can't catch up!"  frantically she begins scrounging the ground for a bow that fell from the hands of the orcs.


 
 Spoiler: aoo and actions 
soery about the short ic post but heading back to wor after this. Also just remembered that Natalia dropped her bow back inside the walls. How long would it take to pick up one that the orcs dropped outside the walls?

Anyway, AOO. It's not clear if haste runs out before or after. If it runs out after the attack please add a +1 to the attack roll. She's going for nonlethal--is she able to sneak attack?

Attack:  (d20+14)[ 29 ] 
Crit:  (d20+14)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 11 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 7 ] 
 
Cavelcade
Kurt frown as the orc refuses to submit, then brings his merciful blade around in a sweeping arc aimed straight at his ribcage.

 
 Spoiler 

Flanking +2

 (1d20+18)[ 19 ]  Attack
 (1d20+18)[ 29 ]  Crit

 (2d6+7)[ 10 ]  +  (1d6)[ 5 ]  Attack
 (2d6+7)[ 11 ]  Crit
 


Unfortunately, at the last moment the gift of speed from Mithril fades away and the sudden shift throws him completely off balance, the flat of his blade bouncing harmlessly off the orc's stomach as Kurt stumbles, before digging his heels in to settle himself and watching the orc flee. Taking a deep breath, he sighs and sheaths his blade, turning away.  "Hm. That's that, I suppose...ne'er had that run out on me so harshly."  He starts running back towards the village then, there might still be work to do there.
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia watches with blades and no bow as the last Orc flees.  "They know we here now...Kurt, remember Giants?"  she asks as he jogs back to her.  "Could have fire dragons against us, town in way now...though coming anyway....but town in path even more....because...two targets."  what was the first anyway?

 
 Spoiler 
i hope this was ok.
 
Athedia
Mithril shifted again on the roof, watching Whiskers run to the top and slide down the slope until he bumped into her leg.   "I should let you fall but at least you are getting exercise." 
Admiral
The orc disappears off into the forest, the threat disappearing.

Behind them, smoke continues rising from the burning wall as the hole grows larger... until suddenly the fire ceases.

Mithril looks down off the building she's perched on, and sees an elderly elven woman with brown hair standing on the path below, her hand outstretched towards the fire. She appears to have raced over from the other side of town. She scratches her head as she looks up towards the wizard, and Mithril sees the insignia of the Church on her hand.

 "A spell well worth preparing, in these times,"  she notes to Mithril. She smiles in a friendly manner.  "The other wall is safe, by the way. And how did you find yourself up there?" 
CWater
Rhenner runs down the stairs and crosses the distance to the hole in the wall. He's relieved to conclude that the fight is over and Natalia and Kurt are still up and alive. He eyes the grim sight of the bodies that lay around, sighs, and proceeds to check if all the orcs left behind are really dead. It could be bad if one was merely knocked unconscious and came to later when no one was watching. If they happen to have valuables on them, he'll pick those up.

 
 Spoiler 
Rhenner is not usually that enthusiastic looter, but these guys attacked his old  home ! So he'll help out this time. :J
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The orc disappears off into the forest, the threat disappearing.

Behind them, smoke continues rising from the burning wall as the hole grows larger... until suddenly the fire ceases.

Mithril looks down off the building she's perched on, and sees an elderly elven woman with brown hair standing on the path below, her hand outstretched towards the fire. She appears to have raced over from the other side of town. She scratches her head as she looks up towards the wizard, and Mithril sees the insignia of the Church on her hand.

 "A spell well worth preparing, in these times,"  she notes to Mithril. She smiles in a friendly manner.  "The other wall is safe, by the way. And how did you find yourself up there?"  
 

Mithril shrugged.   "Another spell worth preparing.  In just a word I can get up here and avoid the axe aimed for my head.  Didn't think much beyond that though." 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia sighs in relief as the flames vanish, and a smile stretches across her face as she sees all her friends are alive and safe.  "Other safe? Good here two. One fled, but others...caught or dead. Maybe...can question one?" 

She makes her way into the town, thoroughly searching every body and binding the unconscious orcs as she goes.  "Thank you...Rhenner,"  she says when she sees him.

It's the sight of Mithril on the roof that makes Natalia pause and look up.  "Mithril! Scouting now?"  she attempts to tease.  "Can you...get down? Or need help?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia sighs in relief as the flames vanish, and a smile stretches across her face as she sees all her friends are alive and safe.  "Other safe? Good here two. One fled, but others...caught or dead. Maybe...can question one?" 

She makes her way into the town, thoroughly searching every body and binding the unconscious orcs as she goes.  "Thank you...Rhenner,"  she says when she sees him.

It's the sight of Mithril on the roof that makes Natalia pause and look up.  "Mithril! Scouting now?"  she attempts to tease.  "Can you...get down? Or need help?"  
 

 "A pillow would be appreciate.  Or a ladder.  It seemed like a good idea at the time!" 
CoffeeIncluded
At this point Natalia's definitely laughing as she shouts up,  "Seems most are! Stand back!"  once Mithril does, she sees a grappling hook attached to a rope soar onto the roof from where Natalia flung it from below and latch on tight to the edge.

 
 Spoiler 
natalias throwing up a grappling hook attached to a rope so Mithril can climb down.
 
Admiral
The hook latches onto the roof a few feet from Mithril.

 
 Spoiler 

Natalia can take 10 on the Use Rope (easily; DC 14) and Mithril can take 10 on the climb down (DC 5), if she wants.
 
Athedia
Mithril started to make her way down the rope before reaching up and grabbing Whiskers by his neck.  Once on the ground she gave Natalia a hug.   "It's been a very very long day hasn't it." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril started to make her way down the rope before reaching up and grabbing Whiskers by his neck.  Once on the ground she gave Natalia a hug.   "It's been a very very long day hasn't it."  
 

She wasn't expecting the hug, but Natalia returns it in full, sinking into Mitihril's embrace as she sighs--a whole-body release of tension and worry from this very, very long day.

 "Too long. Hours like weeks, day like months." 
CoffeeIncluded
Afterwards, Natalia observes the aftermath of the battle with another long sigh. But there's still cleanup--things to collect and bodies to move. Much to her surprise as she goes to investigate and pull everything of value off the orcs, some of them are still alive. Rhenner's already tying them up and she helps. As Natalia binds the live orcs' hands behind their backs Natalia whispers to Rhenner,  "You okay?" 
 
 Spoiler: Admiral, I have a question 
If none of the orcs have +1e longbows, could I please trade some of the +1 weapons and armor for a +1 longbow of my own? I'm sure the elves here have at least one?

Also, did the leader have any battle plans or information on him? Even with the make of the weapons and the like? Take 20 on search for 39.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Afterwards, Natalia observes the aftermath of the battle with another long sigh. But there's still cleanup--things to collect and bodies to move. Much to her surprise as she goes to investigate and pull everything of value off the orcs, some of them are still alive. Rhenner's already tying them up and she helps. As Natalia binds the live orcs' hands behind their backs Natalia whispers to Rhenner,  "You okay?"  
 

 "Sure, don't worry",  Rhenner stands up and takes a good look at the scene of battle, the burnt wall, broken tower and the town behind them. He hardly recognises it from what it once was and this transformation is not likely to end here. How long will it be until only ruins remain, that is a question he doesn't like.

 "I need to speak to my mother again",  he says firmly,  "as soon as possible." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Sure, don't worry",  Rhenner stands up and takes a good look at the scene of battle, the burnt wall, broken tower and the town behind them. He hardly recognises it from what it once was and this transformation is not likely to end here. How long will it be until only ruins remain, that is a question he doesn't like.

 "I need to speak to my mother again",  he says firmly,  "as soon as possible."  
 

Natalia doesn't know what rhenner is thinking, hasn't experienced this with her home. But she can guess the shape and feel of it, by the look on his face.

 "Rhenner, you want...alone, or us, or one us, with you?" 
Admiral
Lander and the two other guards descend from the tower to help the party check the bodies of the orcs. Two of them is found to still be unconscious but alive, and with the party's help the guards tie them up and bring them inside. In the process, the party strips weapons from the corpses.

Within a couple of minutes, some of the city's other guards show up to survey the damage to the wall. A few bear injuries from the giants' attack.

Lander gestures back towards the mayor's quarters.  "If you want to talk to Elynwena, I'm sure she'd be interested." 

-----------------------

The druid who had quenched the fire along the wall approaches Natalia and Mithril as they collect weapons from the corpses.  "Impressive work,"  she notes sincerely.  "How did you few manage to hold off so many?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Up to the party who wants to chat with the druid and who wants to talk to the mayor again.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Lander and the two other guards descend from the tower to help the party check the bodies of the orcs. Two of them is found to still be unconscious but alive, and with the party's help the guards tie them up and bring them inside. In the process, the party strips weapons from the corpses.

Within a couple of minutes, some of the city's other guards show up to survey the damage to the wall. A few bear injuries from the giants' attack.

Lander gestures back towards the mayor's quarters.  "If you want to talk to Elynwena, I'm sure she'd be interested." 

-----------------------

The druid who had quenched the fire along the wall approaches Natalia and Mithril as they collect weapons from the corpses.  "Impressive work,"  she notes sincerely.  "How did you few manage to hold off so many?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Up to the party who wants to chat with the druid and who wants to talk to the mayor again.
 
 
 

As Lander spoke to them Mithril nodded at Rhenner to go.   "She's your mother and family can be tricky.  Send for us if you need backup." 

She was a little proud when the druid complimented the groups efforts.   "It's mostly practice.  We each know our roles in a fight now.  Little tricky now we don't...."  She paused as she almost mentioned Shiny.  They had managed without him but she hadn't realize how useful his distractions were until just now.   "Natalia and Kurt do the heavy damage, Rhenner keeps us alive and gives them boosts and I slow them down to give some breathing room.  And sit on roofs.  That happened too." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Rhenner, if need us..." 

At the Druids comment Natalia grins with pride as well.  "Mithril right. We practice, lots of battles before this. She do more than slow down. Mithril set up, tie up so we knock down. Kurt can...fight hard alone, but I...much easier with Mithril. Couldn't have fought all swoft barbarians so fast...without her. Though roofs is new."  She smiles and nudges her friend.
CWater
 "Actually... I wouldn't mind if some of you came along, for my sanity's sake",  Rhenner replies, accompanied by a nervous smirk.  "Although...",  he continues and his expression grows more serious,  "there is something I maybe should discuss with you first." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Actually... I wouldn't mind if some of you came along, for my sanity's sake",  Rhenner replies, accompanied by a nervous smirk.  "Although...",  he continues and his expression grows more serious,  "there is something I maybe should discuss with you first."  
 

Mithril paused and pulled Rhenner aside.  She kept her voice low as she spoke.  "What happened?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Actually... I wouldn't mind if some of you came along, for my sanity's sake",  Rhenner replies, accompanied by a nervous smirk.  "Although...",  he continues and his expression grows more serious,  "there is something I maybe should discuss with you first."  
 

 "Second,"  Natalia whispers to the Druid before hurrying over to rhenners side. Concern is etched on her face as she whispered,  "What wrong?"  this must be what disturbed him so much before they were interrupted by the attack, and again the knot of apprehension returns.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril paused and pulled Rhenner aside.  She kept her voice low as she spoke.  "What happened?"  
 

Rhenner looks weary.  "Sometimes I wonder how much a single mind can take",  he says quietly,  "In the meeting with my mother earlier, I realised in how many ways one can upset mine, and just with the right words, said at a wrong time or combination."  He shakes his head.  "But never mind that, there's something important you all need to know." 

He gestures Natalia and Kurt to join them, and looks around, hoping there really isn't anyone else close enough to hear them. He wasn't quite paranoid enough to worry about invisible spies, or was he? Rhenner rubs his forehead and banishes the thought.  "Now, try not to scream outloud. Earlier, mother wanted to ask my opinion about new acquaintances and their trustworthiness, especially if their means of communication are... unconventional." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner looks weary.  "Sometimes I wonder how much a single mind can take",  he says quietly,  "In the meeting with my mother earlier, I realised in how many ways one can upset mine, and just with the right words, said at a wrong time or combination."  He shakes his head.  "But never mind that, there's something important you all need to know." 

He gestures Natalia and Kurt to join them, and looks around, hoping there really isn't anyone else close enough to hear them. He wasn't quite paranoid enough to worry about invisible spies, or was he? Rhenner rubs his forehead and banishes the thought.  "Now, try not to scream outloud. Earlier, mother wanted to ask my opinion about new acquaintances and their trustworthiness, especially if their means of communication are... unconventional."  
 

Mithril startled back for a second.   "Here too? That bastard-"  She cut herself off and took a deep breath.   "So we can't tell her anything.  Rhenner I know she is your mother but if what you suspect is true we can't trust her.  Just tell her an ally will always show their face and if someone is too helpful to be warned." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril startled back for a second.   "Here too? That bastard-"  She cut herself off and took a deep breath.   "So we can't tell her anything.  Rhenner I know she is your mother but if what you suspect is true we can't trust her.  Just tell her an ally will always show their face and if someone is too helpful to be warned."  
 

 "I said something of the sort, yes. But there's more, apparently also the mayors of other nearby villages, Tenvull and Orden, have also heard from this person. He's suggested they contact the Provost at the Institute of Llenovia, it's an elven city in the center of the forest, if they want to stop the attacks on the villages. He claims the Provost knows what the Horde is after." 
Athedia
 "That much probably is true.  But there is a longer game here.  But the Institute won't talk to her.  As much as I dislike these marks, they do serve a role and she would incite anger by demanding the Institute had something over.  But if Natalia and I approach they might grant audience." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "That much probably is true.  But there is a longer game here.  But the Institute won't talk to her.  As much as I dislike these marks, they do serve a role and she would incite anger by demanding the Institute had something over.  But if Natalia and I approach they might grant audience."  
 

 "That depends... The Institute and Firm are not on as bad terms as the Church and Institute, and if mother would  follow this advice, she might also send for my sister Kraiyah, who is with the Institute, to make things go smoother. If... she already hasn't",  a sudden frown passes through Rhenner's face, but he quickly shakes it away,  "Anyway, without knowing 'what' exactly it is that the Horde supposedly wants, it's hard to say where this would lead. But knowing the origin of this suggestion, I'm worried, to say the least. Finding out more about it might have its risks too. Would it still be worth it?"  Rhenner shrugs and rubs his forehead again.
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia gasps and steps back.  "Voice whispers to your mother too? That must...why..."  she shakes her head, grabbing the fleeting thoughts that run all over the place, the horror...but not shock.  "She know why orcs attack, or something like...voice might be whispering, might be threatening, or..." 

She pauses and listens to Mithril and Rhenner speak.  "What if voice wants...us look?" 
 
 Spoiler: I'll be home later 
Sorry I can't really participate much in the discussion right now. I'll contribute and edit more when I get home in a few hours.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia gasps and steps back.  "Voice whispers to your mother too? That must...why..."  she shakes her head, grabbing the fleeting thoughts that run all over the place, the horror...but not shock.  "She know why orcs attack, or something like...voice might be whispering, might be threatening, or..." 

She pauses and listens to Mithril and Rhenner speak.  "What if voice wants...us look?" 
 
 Spoiler: I'll be home later 
Sorry I can't really participate much in the discussion right now. I'll contribute and edit more when I get home in a few hours.
 
 
 

 "He wants  someone  to. And one of the mayors will, if not right away, then at least when one of the villages is taken over. With things as they are it's only a matter of time."  Rhenner's expression is grim.  "That's what I wish to speak to my mother about. There's no way they can survive here until this war is over, who knows how long that will take. It makes me sad",  he takes a look around at the surrounding town,  "to think this place lost. But I'd rather see them leave, than worry when they will die here." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "He wants  someone  to. And one of the mayors will, if not right away, then at least when one of the villages is taken over. With things as they are it's only a matter of time."  Rhenner's expression is grim. 
 

 "Wait,"  Natalia quickly says, holding up her hand.  "Voice in chains, right? Horde is...hand of Voice? Voice plays both sides, like drow underground. What Provost holds...could hold key to chains. Can't let them get. Need...to stop Horde other way. But also...learn what key is, so can leave, or break." 

  "That's what I wish to speak to my mother about. There's no way they can survive here until this war is over, who knows how long that will take. It makes me sad",  he takes a look around at the surrounding town,  "to think this place lost. But I'd rather see them leave, than worry when they will die here."  

 "You mean e--eva--"  She pauses and tries again, slowly enunciating every syllable,  "Evacuate?"  Natalia looks around, following Rhenner's gaze. This is his home. To see it like this...

She places a hand on his shoulder.  "...I'm sorry. Can we...safekeep town, for return?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Wait,"  Natalia quickly says, holding up her hand.  "Voice in chains, right? Horde is...hand of Voice? Voice plays both sides, like drow underground. What Provost holds...could hold key to chains. Can't let them get. Need...to stop Horde other way. But also...learn what key is, so can leave, or break."  
 

 "But do we have the time? We should already be two other places, like Mithril has reminded us."  He refers to their previous conversation with Elynwena.


  "You mean e--eva--"  She pauses and tries again, slowly enunciating every syllable,  "Evacuate?"  Natalia looks around, following Rhenner's gaze. This is his home. To see it like this...

She places a hand on his shoulder.  "...I'm sorry. Can we...safekeep town, for return?"  

Rhenner gives Natalia a long look, then sighs.  "I suppose it is easy for me to be in favour of moving",  he says in slightly bitter tone,  "The traveller that I am. And I can understand leaving would be hard for some people, as it might bring back painful memories. Yet, I still think that this danger is too big, the risk too great. Although... now that I think about it, if my mother couldn't convince them to leave, what difference could I make?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "But do we have the time? We should already be two other places, like Mithril has reminded us."  He refers to their previous conversation with Elynwena. 
 

 "Well...you know places, people? We can...teleport now. Miles in moments. Warp and warn."  they can stop the slavers without going out of the way, she suddenly realizes.


 Rhenner gives Natalia a long look, then sighs.  "I suppose it is easy for me to be in favour of moving",  he says in slightly bitter tone,  "The traveller that I am. And I can understand leaving would be hard for some people, as it might bring back painful memories. Yet, I still think that this danger is too big, the risk too great. Although... now that I think about it, if my mother couldn't convince them to leave, what difference could I make?"  

Natalia simply nods. They're all travelers, but most aren't. The air around them is still warm and smoky.  "Dragon might,"  she mutters.  "Bet might visit soon." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Well...you know places, people? We can...teleport now. Miles in moments. Warp and warn."  they can stop the slavers without going out of the way, she suddenly realizes.  
 

 "That helps, yes",  Rhenner nods,  "But we still can't get everywhere. For example, there's one meeting we won't be making it to today. ...I suppose I should Send about that to them, when we have a free moment." 

 Natalia simply nods. They're all travelers, but most aren't. The air around them is still warm and smoky.  "Dragon might,"  she mutters.  "Bet might visit soon."  

 "True, it might",  he's quiet for a moment, thinking,  "But I need to talk to mother, such decisions are up to her after all."  He takes a step into the direction of her house.  "If you want to come along, you can." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "That helps, yes",  Rhenner nods,  "But we still can't get everywhere. For example, there's one meeting we won't be making it to today. ...I suppose I should Send about that to them, when we have a free moment." 
 "True, it might",  he's quiet for a moment, thinking,  "But I need to talk to mother, such decisions are up to her after all."  He takes a step into the direction of her house.  "If you want to come along, you can."  
 

 "It would be better if I didn't.  You know my opinion.  What the Voice requests is important but we can't do as it requests.  I would just anger her.  But do not let her listen to it.  If need be I will have a private meeting." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "It would be better if I didn't.  You know my opinion.  What the Voice requests is important but we can't do as it requests.  I would just anger her.  But do not let her listen to it.  If need be I will have a private meeting."  
 

Rhenner looks at Mithril mildly perplexed.   I will never understand how she thinks. 

"As you wish",  he says, turning to the others,  "Does either of you want to come? Afraid meeting my mother is quite the challenge on itself." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "It would be better if I didn't.  You know my opinion.  What the Voice requests is important but we can't do as it requests.  I would just anger her.  But do not let her listen to it.  If need be I will have a private meeting."  
 


Natalia looks at Mithril, quiet. They're almost certainly having a private meeting. And given what happened before, Mithril would probably start screaming...or have a breakdown. But there's also what the Voice told Mithril to do, what Mithril nearly did, lurking quietly in the back of her mind.

And that makes her slightly uncertain, and that breaks her heart.


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner looks at Mithril mildly perplexed.   I will never understand how she thinks. 

"As you wish",  he says, turning to the others,  "Does either of you want to come? Afraid meeting my mother is quite the challenge on itself."  
 

Natalia nods vigorously.  "Yes. Though...might need help with words."  It can't be worse than any other challenges they've faced.
Admiral
Rhenner heads back to the mayor's headquarters. Across the town he catches a glimpse of guards moving through the city gates, near where the giant's attack must have been- and to his sorrow he sees at least one body being carried in from outside.

He again ascends the steps to find his mother in the room, with Alder at her side. It looks like the cleric's older brother has finished briefing her on the attacks. Elynwena looks Rhenner up and down.

 "So it seems your visit is well-timed,"  she notes drily,  "accidental or not. I owe you a debt, perhaps even my life."  She smiles in what could pass for kindness.  "Some say children owe their parents a debt of life, but I've always considered that an... overestimate." 
 
 Spoiler 

Again, anyone can have accompanied him; which we can figure out OOC or here, up to you.
 


------


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 She was a little proud when the druid complimented the groups efforts.   "It's mostly practice.  We each know our roles in a fight now.  Little tricky now we don't...."  She paused as she almost mentioned Shiny.  They had managed without him but she hadn't realize how useful his distractions were until just now.   "Natalia and Kurt do the heavy damage, Rhenner keeps us alive and gives them boosts and I slow them down to give some breathing room.  And sit on roofs.  That happened too."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 At the Druids comment Natalia grins with pride as well.  "Mithril right. We practice, lots of battles before this. She do more than slow down. Mithril set up, tie up so we knock down. Kurt can...fight hard alone, but I...much easier with Mithril. Couldn't have fought all swoft barbarians so fast...without her. Though roofs is new."  She smiles and nudges her friend. 
 

The elderly elven woman nods.  "The battle was difficult on the other side of the wall, but we held firm. I can be quite the animal when provoked."  She smiles slightly.

 "Pardon me for not introducing myself- I'm Ellyssa. I don't live in the city, my home is nearby in the forest. But I come here to help when it's needed. The raiders from the desert are a threat to all in Woodhelm." 

Nearby, a door slams, and Ellyssa looks over towards it with a frown. Mithril recognizes it as the door to the church where she and Kurt had met the painter of the divine.  "Perhaps you've met my sister, Ilda,"  the druid sighs.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The elderly elven woman nods.  "The battle was difficult on the other side of the wall, but we held firm. I can be quite the animal when provoked."  She smiles slightly.

 "Pardon me for not introducing myself- I'm Ellyssa. I don't live in the city, my home is nearby in the forest. But I come here to help when it's needed. The raiders from the desert are a threat to all in Woodhelm." 

Nearby, a door slams, and Ellyssa looks over towards it with a frown. Mithril recognizes it as the door to the church where she and Kurt had met the painter of the divine.  "Perhaps you've met my sister, Ilda,"  the druid sighs. 
 

 "Ah, so when you say you can be quite the animal... you meant literally.  Yes, I know Ilda.  She was showing me her art.  I found it rather intriguing, especially her depiction of Boccob." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Rhenner heads back to the mayor's headquarters. Across the town he catches a glimpse of guards moving through the city gates, near where the giant's attack must have been- and to his sorrow he sees at least one body being carried in from outside.

He again ascends the steps to find his mother in the room, with Alder at her side. It looks like the cleric's older brother has finished briefing her on the attacks. Elynwena looks Rhenner up and down.

 "So it seems your visit is well-timed,"  she notes drily,  "accidental or not. I owe you a debt, perhaps even my life."  She smiles in what could pass for kindness.  "Some say children owe their parents a debt of life, but I've always considered that an... overestimate." 
 
 Spoiler 

Again, anyone can have accompanied him; which we can figure out OOC or here, up to you.
 


------





The elderly elven woman nods.  "The battle was difficult on the other side of the wall, but we held firm. I can be quite the animal when provoked."  She smiles slightly.

 "Pardon me for not introducing myself- I'm Ellyssa. I don't live in the city, my home is nearby in the forest. But I come here to help when it's needed. The raiders from the desert are a threat to all in Woodhelm." 

Nearby, a door slams, and Ellyssa looks over towards it with a frown. Mithril recognizes it as the door to the church where she and Kurt had met the painter of the divine.  "Perhaps you've met my sister, Ilda,"  the druid sighs. 
 

 "Natalia,"  the rogue says with a smile, a cocked grin when she realizes the pun.  "How close are...we to desert? And can you tell...some of history?" 

The slamming door makes her start and jump a couple of inches. It's only a door though, and only Ilda whom Mithril has met. She looks back at Ellyssa with a slightly quizzical expression. But it's not her business unless the elf decides to bring it up first. She knows what kind of pain can be buried underneath.

 
 Spoiler: Question 
Are these two things going on at the same time?
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Rhenner heads back to the mayor's headquarters. Across the town he catches a glimpse of guards moving through the city gates, near where the giant's attack must have been- and to his sorrow he sees at least one body being carried in from outside.

He again ascends the steps to find his mother in the room, with Alder at her side. It looks like the cleric's older brother has finished briefing her on the attacks. Elynwena looks Rhenner up and down.

 "So it seems your visit is well-timed,"  she notes drily,  "accidental or not. I owe you a debt, perhaps even my life."  She smiles in what could pass for kindness.  "Some say children owe their parents a debt of life, but I've always considered that an... overestimate." 
 
 Spoiler 

Again, anyone can have accompanied him; which we can figure out OOC or here, up to you.
 
 
 

 "I thank Fharlanghn that He lead me here today",  Rhenner replies and gives a short summary of what happened on their side of the town,  "There were about dozen orcs on the southern side, one of them a mage, who I assume summoned the elemental to break the wall and blasted the watchtower. I regret to tell you that one of the guards posted there is dead, though the others made it. I'm... sorry I didn't have the time to ask for names, so I can only tell it was an elf who lost his life. One of the attackers got away, two were knocked unconscious and the rest are dead." 
 "...I doubt this will be the last attack like this",  he finishes, trying to guess what Elynwena the mayor might be thinking now. No chance one could read it from her face.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I thank Fharlanghn that He lead me here today",  Rhenner replies and gives a short summary of what happened on their side of the town,  "There were about dozen orcs on the southern side, one of them a mage, who I assume summoned the elemental to break the wall and blasted the watchtower. I regret to tell you that one of the guards posted there is dead, though the others made it. I'm... sorry I didn't have the time to ask for names, so I can only tell it was an elf who lost his life. One of the attackers got away, two were knocked unconscious and the rest are dead." 
 "...I doubt this will be the last attack like this",  he finishes, trying to guess what Elynwena the mayor might be thinking now. No chance one could read it from her face. 
 

 "Probably not... one can always hope, though,"  Elynwena replies optimistically.  "Isn't that what they taught you to do in the Church? Hope? Well, I suppose this morning neither of us were hoping end up here, but you still did. And thank Fharlanghn, as you say."  Her words still dance on the razor's edge between mockery and sincerity.

She sighs.  "Two left alive, you say... well, you and your friends captured them. So if you want to lead the interrogation, you're welcome to. Sounds like you're on the hunt for whoever sent them. Oh,"  she adds with the bright tone of a new idea.  "Afterwards you can be the ones to behead them too, if you like. Normally that's the magistrate's duty, but I'm sure your brother won't be jealous."  She gives a vague wave towards Alder.

 "But if you must be off, I understand as well." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Natalia,"  the rogue says with a smile, a cocked grin when she realizes the pun.  "How close are...we to desert? And can you tell...some of history?" 

The slamming door makes her start and jump a couple of inches. It's only a door though, and only Ilda whom Mithril has met. She looks back at Ellyssa with a slightly quizzical expression. But it's not her business unless the elf decides to bring it up first. She knows what kind of pain can be buried underneath.

 
 Spoiler: Question 
Are these two things going on at the same time?
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Ah, so when you say you can be quite the animal... you meant literally.  Yes, I know Ilda.  She was showing me her art.  I found it rather intriguing, especially her depiction of Boccob."  
 

 "Yes..."  Ellysa replies, sounding distinctly forced.  "She's very talented." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Natalia,"  the rogue says with a smile, a cocked grin when she realizes the pun.  "How close are...we to desert? And can you tell...some of history?"  
 

 "The desert is about thirty to forty miles away,"  the druid responds,  "and the mountains where the giants normally reside, twenty miles farther still. They do not move naturally through these forests; they are clumsy and easy to track. That's how I followed the giants here... in a hurry, once I realized where they were heading. Some dark business brings them into these woods." 
 "But what makes you so curious about it,"  she asks with a knowing smile.


  
 Spoiler: Question 
Are these two things going on at the same time?
 
 

 
 Spoiler 

Yes- helps get everyone's conversation into the mix.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Yes..."  Ellysa replies, sounding distinctly forced.  "She's very talented." 
 "The desert is about thirty to forty miles away,"  the druid responds,  "and the mountains where the giants normally reside, twenty miles farther still. They do not move naturally through these forests; they are clumsy and easy to track. That's how I followed the giants here... in a hurry, once I realized where they were heading. Some dark business brings them into these woods." 
 "But what makes you so curious about it,"  she asks with a knowing smile. 
 

 "What is up between you two?  Slamming doors and tense words?  You sound like the twins when they fight."   Mithril looked between the sisters, worried but also relieved to see some form of normality in the world.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "The desert is about thirty to forty miles away,"  the druid responds,  "and the mountains where the giants normally reside, twenty miles farther still. They do not move naturally through these forests; they are clumsy and easy to track. That's how I followed the giants here... in a hurry, once I realized where they were heading. Some dark business brings them into these woods." 
 "But what makes you so curious about it,"  she asks with a knowing smile.



 
 Spoiler 

Yes- helps get everyone's conversation into the mix.
 
 
 

 "Learning land...and dark business,"  Natalia responds, listening carefully. Part of her also maps out their location in their head. How large, how spread out is the Horde to be in so many places at once?


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "What is up between you two?  Slamming doors and tense words?  You sound like the twins when they fight."   Mithril looked between the sisters, worried but also relieved to see some form of normality in the world. 
 

She pauses, looking awkwardly at the tension that just filled the air.  "Um...Think maybe should go to Rhenner. Don't think he...should alone now. Or wants alone now." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Probably not... one can always hope, though,"  Elynwena replies optimistically.  "Isn't that what they taught you to do in the Church? Hope? Well, I suppose this morning neither of us were hoping end up here, but you still did. And thank Fharlanghn, as you say."  Her words still dance on the razor's edge between mockery and sincerity.

She sighs.  "Two left alive, you say... well, you and your friends captured them. So if you want to lead the interrogation, you're welcome to. Sounds like you're on the hunt for whoever sent them. Oh,"  she adds with the bright tone of a new idea.  "Afterwards you can be the ones to behead them too, if you like. Normally that's the magistrate's duty, but I'm sure your brother won't be jealous."  She gives a vague wave towards Alder.

 "But if you must be off, I understand as well."  
 

Rhenner let's out a deep sigh before speaking.  "Yes, we must, probably sooner than later. And the choice is not mine either, even if I wished to stay here to help you, I don't believe my friends would, and to be honest I doubt I alone am little help against raving barbarians."  The half-elf looks pained when he continues,  "Are you really going to continue living here? You said earlier that you'd considered leaving Woodhelm, but decided not to. What now, when the Horde is clearly not going to give up, and there's a red dragon flying about?!"  Rhenner stops when he realises he's raised his voice.  "I'm sorry, I shouldn't shout." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner let's out a deep sigh before speaking.  "Yes, we must, probably sooner than later. And the choice is not mine either, even if I wished to stay here to help you, I don't believe my friends would, and to be honest I doubt I alone am little help against raving barbarians."  The half-elf looks pained when he continues,  "Are you really going to continue living here? You said earlier that you'd considered leaving Woodhelm, but decided not to. What now, when the Horde is clearly not going to give up, and there's a red dragon flying about?!"  Rhenner stops when he realises he's raised his voice.  "I'm sorry, I shouldn't shout."  
 

 "Is that why you haven't come back here?"  Elynwena asks conversationally.  "Because you value your home so little, you have difficulty imagining anyone else being attached."  Even over her large belly, she leans forward and gives Rhenner's holy symbol a tap.  "We can't all wander away our whole lives." 
 "But I suppose I'm being unfair,"  she quickly adds, as if correcting herself.  "You don't just wander, do you? You worked for the Church! You helped people in trouble! I admit when I pictured it, I thought you did more than tell people they should abandon their homes. But it is still so  nice  for a mother to see her son at work!"  she beams.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Learning land...and dark business,"  Natalia responds, listening carefully. Part of her also maps out their location in their head. How large, how spread out is the Horde to be in so many places at once? 
 

 "So you aren't from Woodhelm yourselves,"  Ellysa replies, sounding polite but not too surprised.  "What business has brought you here?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Incidentally, the Horde is quite enormous; from demographAicha estimates they number between one and two hundred thousand (Natalia could have gotten that number when she met Aicha, let's say). But the orcs in the woods are generally raiding parties, far from where most of the Horde are in the desert (where many of the largest forces are busy fighting other armies, Crusaders, or just staying on their own in camps). As far as you know there aren't any Horde encampments in the woods themselves.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "What is up between you two?  Slamming doors and tense words?  You sound like the twins when they fight."   Mithril looked between the sisters, worried but also relieved to see some form of normality in the world. 
 

 "And what twins would those be?"  Ellysa asks pleasantly, diverting her question.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "So you aren't from Woodhelm yourselves,"  Ellysa replies, sounding polite but not too surprised.  "What business has brought you here?" 
 "And what twins would those be?"  Ellysa asks pleasantly, diverting her question. 
 

 "My 14 year old brother and sister.  And they do that same thing when they are hiding something.  I'll ask again.  Why are you two fighting?"   Mithril put her hands on her hips and glared at the two women with the same look she gave her misbehaving younger siblings.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "So you aren't from Woodhelm yourselves,"  Ellysa replies, sounding polite but not too surprised.  "What business has brought you here?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Incidentally, the Horde is quite enormous; from demographAicha estimates they number between one and two hundred thousand (Natalia could have gotten that number when she met Aicha, let's say). But the orcs in the woods are generally raiding parties, far from where most of the Horde are in the desert (where many of the largest forces are busy fighting other armies, Crusaders, or just staying on their own in camps). As far as you know there aren't any Horde encampments in the woods themselves.
 
 
 

 "Fleeing dragon,"  Natalia replies. Well, it is technically true... "You elsewhere in woods. Have...seen red dragon before?"  Is it red dragons that live in deserts? It would make sense given the heat and fire, and that's where most of the enormous Horde is. So if the red dragon is moving here and there's more and more raiding parties without signs of them running out...

Well there's a few possibilities, but none of them are good.


  "And what twins would those be?"  Ellysa asks pleasantly, diverting her question. 

She needs to go with Rhenner, give him the moral support at least, but Natalia only edges to his mother's house at the moment as she waits for Ellysa's reply. And perhaps indulges her curiosity a bit.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "My 14 year old brother and sister.  And they do that same thing when they are hiding something.  I'll ask again.  Why are you two fighting?"   Mithril put her hands on her hips and glared at the two women with the same look she gave her misbehaving younger siblings. 
 

The elderly druid scratches her head at Mithril's pushiness.  "Do you always interrogate people in this way?"  she asks.  "You seem quite inclined towards suspicion. I'll say that she is upset with me for something that happened long ago, and that her feelings are not entirely without cause. And let us say no more on the matter." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Fleeing dragon,"  Natalia replies. Well, it is technically true... "You elsewhere in woods. Have...seen red dragon before?"  Is it red dragons that live in deserts? It would make sense given the heat and fire, and that's where most of the enormous Horde is. So if the red dragon is moving here and there's more and more raiding parties without signs of them running out...

Well there's a few possibilities, but none of them are good. 
 

 "A red dragon?"  Elyssa raises her eyebrows.  "I can't say I have... I've seen green dragons in the north of Woodhelm, though not in almost a century. They're a dying breed here."  There's a hint of sadness in her tone.

 "There are spells I can prepare that may help. But that both dragons and barbarians are straying from the desert... very strange." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The elderly druid scratches her head at Mithril's pushiness.  "Do you always interrogate people in this way?"  she asks.  "You seem quite inclined towards suspicion. I'll say that she is upset with me for something that happened long ago, and that her feelings are not entirely without cause. And let us say no more on the matter."  
 

Natalia gives a stern look to Mithril but says nothing else.


  "A red dragon?"  Elyssa raises her eyebrows.  "I can't say I have... I've seen green dragons in the north of Woodhelm, though not in almost a century. They're a dying breed here."  There's a hint of sadness in her tone.

 "There are spells I can prepare that may help. But that both dragons and barbarians are straying from the desert... very strange."  

 "Yes, very strange...What spells?"  She pauses mid-step. Maybe Elyssa could help them defend Woodhelm, or evacuate if necessary.

 
 Spoiler: admiral 
sense motive:  (d20+6)[ 14 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The elderly druid scratches her head at Mithril's pushiness.  "Do you always interrogate people in this way?"  she asks.  "You seem quite inclined towards suspicion. I'll say that she is upset with me for something that happened long ago, and that her feelings are not entirely without cause. And let us say no more on the matter." 
 "A red dragon?"  Elyssa raises her eyebrows.  "I can't say I have... I've seen green dragons in the north of Woodhelm, though not in almost a century. They're a dying breed here."  There's a hint of sadness in her tone.

 "There are spells I can prepare that may help. But that both dragons and barbarians are straying from the desert... very strange."  
 

 "I have my reasons for suspicion.  Blind trust has hurt to many in recent history.  Divides between family seem to be a trend in"   Mithril's face and posture shifted from their previous relaxed stance to that of a guarded woman.   "Strange?  Have you heard of other strange events in the area?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Is that why you haven't come back here?"  Elynwena asks conversationally.  "Because you value your home so little, you have difficulty imagining anyone else being attached."  Even over her large belly, she leans forward and gives Rhenner's holy symbol a tap.  "We can't all wander away our whole lives." 
 "But I suppose I'm being unfair,"  she quickly adds, as if correcting herself.  "You don't just wander, do you? You worked for the Church! You helped people in trouble! I admit when I pictured it, I thought you did more than tell people they should abandon their homes. But it is still so  nice  for a mother to see her son at work!"  she beams. 
 

 "You may mock me all you like, and I won't try to claim it wouldn't be entirely unjustified either",  Rhenner replies with a smile that is only slightly forced. For whatever reason, he felt much calmer now than in their last meeting just a while ago, when he had trouble keeping even his thoughts together. Seems like the sudden battle had knocked some sense back into him.   I wonder what that tells about me. 

"I'm not happy to suggest that you should leave, I care about this place, even if you might not believe it. But right now it's dangerous here, and there is no telling how long this war might continue. What kind of life is it, if you need to fear for your life every day? What kind of home is one where you can't be safe? Is any place worth that?" 
Cavelcade
Kurt grumbles softly at the rhetoric directed at Rhennar, looking up from whatever thoughts had been nesting in his own mind.  "Not everyone who leaves home regrets it. But not all wander because of fear of their home, or don't desire to see it again..."  His forehead wrinkles as he says it, a rush of emotion barely held in choking his voice for a second.  "Sometimes they have no choice but to stay away, or no way to return. For me, at least, I feel that as long as the little fief of my forefathers lies behind, safe and comfortable, I'll find wandering more bearable. I'll know that somewhere there is a firm foothold, even if my feet cannot stand there again."  His eyes are turned away from the mother and son; looking into the past or a distant, longed for without hope future, or just towards home, impossible to say.

A deep sigh escapes from the depths of his body as the mood passes.  "If I came home to this, I don't think I could stand it. Rhennar is stronger than I am to be able to talk to you like this, in a walled off town, assaulted by forces that could destroy it utterly."  He frowns again, rubbing his chin a little.  "And that's without any of this speech you have, full of double meanings. When my mother was mispleased with me, I knew exactly why."  He stumbles a bit as the last words come from his lips, then, looking between them.  "But maybe Rhennar knows just what you mean, and it's only my own rock hard skull that stops the meaning getting through. She often let me know what she thought of that, too." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt grumbles softly at the rhetoric directed at Rhennar, looking up from whatever thoughts had been nesting in his own mind.  "Not everyone who leaves home regrets it. But not all wander because of fear of their home, or don't desire to see it again...”  His forehead wrinkles as he says it, a rush of emotion barely held in choking his voice for a second. [color=”green”]”Sometimes they have no choice but to stay away, or no way to return. For me, at least, I feel that as long as the little fief of my forefathers lies behind, safe and comfortable, I'll find wandering more bearable. I'll know that somewhere there is a firm foothold, even if my feet cannot stand there again."[/color] His eyes are turned away from the mother and son; looking into the past or a distant, longed for without hope future, or just towards home, impossible to say.

A deep sigh escapes from the depths of his body as the mood passes.  "If I came home to this, I don't think I could stand it. Rhennar is stronger than I am to be able to talk to you like this, in a walled off town, assaulted by forces that could destroy it utterly."  He frowns again, rubbing his chin a little.  "And that's without any of this speech you have, full of double meanings. When my mother was mispleased with me, I knew exactly why."  He stumbles a bit as the last words come from his lips, then, looking between them.  "But maybe Rhennar knows just what you mean, and it's only my own rock hard skull that stops the meaning getting through. She often let me know what she thought of that, too."  
 

Rhenner didn't dare to comment on this last part, though this comparison of mothers amused him. Still, he tried not to let it show. He doubted anything would get Elynwena to change the way of speaking she enjoyed so much (Rhenner had no doubt his mother took great pleasure in this game she played with everyone), but he didn't oppose anyone trying.

He briefly wondered what might have lead Kurt to leave his home and made it so final. It was not the time or place to ask though, nor really any of his business either.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I have my reasons for suspicion.  Blind trust has hurt to many in recent history.  Divides between family seem to be a trend in"   Mithril's face and posture shifted from their previous relaxed stance to that of a guarded woman.   "Strange?  Have you heard of other strange events in the area?"  
 

 
 Spoiler 

Elyssa was just referring to the normally desert-residing barbarians invading the forest; what was already in the conversation. Sorry if it was unclear!
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia gives a stern look to Mithril but says nothing else.

 "Yes, very strange...What spells?"  She pauses mid-step. Maybe Elyssa could help them defend Woodhelm, or evacuate if necessary.

 
 Spoiler: admiral 
sense motive: [roll0]
 
 
 

 "A few spells, drawn from the essence of Woodhelm. You already saw the most useful one, which can quench fires and lay waste on elementals. Some that can protect living beings against such effects. Some that can bring ice upon enemies. And there are spells that let me trace intruders in the forest, which have proven quite useful." 

She looks thoughtfully at Natalia and Mithril.  "Perhaps whatever you are looking for, I can help." 
 
 Spoiler 

Natalia's Sense Motive can't see anything suspicious beyond the fact that Elyssa clearly doesn't want to talk about her sister.
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "You may mock me all you like, and I won't try to claim it wouldn't be entirely unjustified either",  Rhenner replies with a smile that is only slightly forced. For whatever reason, he felt much calmer now than in their last meeting just a while ago, when he had trouble keeping even his thoughts together. Seems like the sudden battle had knocked some sense back into him.   I wonder what that tells about me. 

"I'm not happy to suggest that you should leave, I care about this place, even if you might not believe it. But right now it's dangerous here, and there is no telling how long this war might continue. What kind of life is it, if you need to fear for your life every day? What kind of home is one where you can't be safe? Is any place worth that?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt grumbles softly at the rhetoric directed at Rhennar, looking up from whatever thoughts had been nesting in his own mind.  "Not everyone who leaves home regrets it. But not all wander because of fear of their home, or don't desire to see it again..."  His forehead wrinkles as he says it, a rush of emotion barely held in choking his voice for a second.  "Sometimes they have no choice but to stay away, or no way to return. For me, at least, I feel that as long as the little fief of my forefathers lies behind, safe and comfortable, I'll find wandering more bearable. I'll know that somewhere there is a firm foothold, even if my feet cannot stand there again."  His eyes are turned away from the mother and son; looking into the past or a distant, longed for without hope future, or just towards home, impossible to say.

A deep sigh escapes from the depths of his body as the mood passes.  "If I came home to this, I don't think I could stand it. Rhennar is stronger than I am to be able to talk to you like this, in a walled off town, assaulted by forces that could destroy it utterly."  He frowns again, rubbing his chin a little.  "And that's without any of this speech you have, full of double meanings. When my mother was mispleased with me, I knew exactly why."  He stumbles a bit as the last words come from his lips, then, looking between them.  "But maybe Rhennar knows just what you mean, and it's only my own rock hard skull that stops the meaning getting through. She often let me know what she thought of that, too."  
 

Elynwena smiles as she listens to both the travelers before her. At the end, she points to the dwarf.

 "Kurt, wasn't it?"  she asks.  "I liked you immediately, did you know that? I hope that's direct enough for you. Folks like you keep telling me about these double meanings, I can't say I know what they're talking about." 

She turns back to Rhenner.  "Do you remember the last time this village was abandoned?"  she asks, suddenly dead serious.  "When the wights flowed through the trees like a spring fog. I wasn't here at the time, was I, I'd gone to look for your grandfather. And by the time I could return, the city was empty, abandoned." 
 "Gave me quite a fright, imagining the animated corpses of you and your brothers shambling off north, lords know where."  She gives him a small smack to his knee, even though the story happened long ago and Rhenner bore none of the responsibility for it.  "Took us a week to find you. How do you think I felt, having left you unprotected? And come to think of it, how do you think you'd have felt if today you'd come here and it were empty?" 
 "So, no. I'm not abandoning this town again." 
 
 Spoiler 

This all comes almost entirely from CWater's PM (CWater, I can send it to you if you need; it was from September 2 2015). If any exposition is unclear Rhenner may fill it in, but it's entirely up to him.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  
 Spoiler 

Elyssa was just referring to the normally desert-residing barbarians invading the forest; what was already in the conversation. Sorry if it was unclear!
 

 "A few spells, drawn from the essence of Woodhelm. You already saw the most useful one, which can quench fires and lay waste on elementals. Some that can protect living beings against such effects. Some that can bring ice upon enemies. And there are spells that let me trace intruders in the forest, which have proven quite useful." 

She looks thoughtfully at Natalia and Mithril.  "Perhaps whatever you are looking for, I can help." 
 
 Spoiler 

Natalia's Sense Motive can't see anything suspicious beyond the fact that Elyssa clearly doesn't want to talk about her sister.
 
] 
 

Well...she knows enough about what might lie beneath to not really pry right now. But a spell to find enemies, that could be exactly what they're looking for.

 "Can you...shield town from flame? Find flame Giants, red dragon?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elynwena smiles as she listens to both the travelers before her. At the end, she points to the dwarf.

 "Kurt, wasn't it?"  she asks.  "I liked you immediately, did you know that? I hope that's direct enough for you. Folks like you keep telling me about these double meanings, I can't say I know what they're talking about." 

She turns back to Rhenner.  "Do you remember the last time this village was abandoned?"  she asks, suddenly dead serious.  "When the wights flowed through the trees like a spring fog. I wasn't here at the time, was I, I'd gone to look for your grandfather. And by the time I could return, the city was empty, abandoned." 
 "Gave me quite a fright, imagining the animated corpses of you and your brothers shambling off north, lords know where."  She gives him a small smack to his knee, even though the story happened long ago and Rhenner bore none of the responsibility for it.  "Took us a week to find you. How do you think I felt, having left you unprotected? And come to think of it, how do you think you'd have felt if today you'd come here and it were empty?" 
 "So, no. I'm not abandoning this town again."  
 

Rhenner stiffens visibly, his face might as well have turned to stone. It takes him a moment to find the strength to reply.  "Even if it means risking everybody?",  he finally asks, his voice quiet and hoarse.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner stiffens visibly, his face might as well have turned to stone. It takes him a moment to find the strength to reply.  "Even if it means risking everybody?",  he finally asks, his voice quiet and hoarse. 
 

 "If they want to leave, they may,"  the Mayor replies.  "Others have. You may ask yourself why those who stayed have chosen to do so." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Well...she knows enough about what might lie beneath to not really pry right now. But a spell to find enemies, that could be exactly what they're looking for.

 "Can you...shield town from flame? Find flame Giants, red dragon?"  
 

 "A specific creature I can track through divination. Dragons are difficult to track this way, though,"  the druid replies.  "They are powerful beings, resistant to scrying. But a flying dragon can be spotted at quite a distance."  She smiles as she glances upward. Natalia and Mithril can make out the figure of an eagle circling at a tremendous height.  "His name is Sentry,"  she notes fondly.  "I wish he'd come down to say hello, but he doesn't like strangers." 

She looks back down.  "Beyond that... the forest has ways of defending itself. Every tree and every rodent is a witness against invaders. If I needed to seek out an enemy in these woods, I could find them." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "If they want to leave, they may,"  the Mayor replies.  "Others have. You may ask yourself why those who stayed have chosen to do so."  
 

 "I will pray to Fharlanghn give me wisdom, though sometimes I fear some matters are forever beyond my limited understanding. I apologise for taking up your time."  He turns to leave.
Cavelcade
Kurt rubs his beard and the back of his head, looking aside at her response  "Maybe I'll learn to keep my mouth shut, sometimes. Maybe different people speak...ah, never mind it all..."  He trails off, shaking his head, listening to her story from Rhennar's childhood in silence. When Rhennar turns to leave, he turns with him.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "A specific creature I can track through divination. Dragons are difficult to track this way, though,"  the druid replies.  "They are powerful beings, resistant to scrying. But a flying dragon can be spotted at quite a distance."  She smiles as she glances upward. Natalia and Mithril can make out the figure of an eagle circling at a tremendous height.  "His name is Sentry,"  she notes fondly.  "I wish he'd come down to say hello, but he doesn't like strangers." 

She looks back down.  "Beyond that... the forest has ways of defending itself. Every tree and every rodent is a witness against invaders. If I needed to seek out an enemy in these woods, I could find them."  
 

Natalia turns to Mithril with a grin.  "So can find horses! And if not dragon, maybe dragon allies."  She looks up at the eagle, a speck circling overhead against the sun. She'd always sort of wondered what it's like up there, nothing but wind against ears and ice forming on wings and fingertips. Would Lisk be strong enough to do that now?

 "Then...I could get fish for Sentry, and not strangers,"  Natalia jokes. Elyssa's suggestion pulls her back to the conversation at hand, and her mind races with every word. This is exactly what they need. The Horde and dragon can evade them forever in this forest, but they can't evade the forest itself.  "Could you...help us find enemy? Please?" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I will pray to Fharlanghn give me wisdom, though sometimes I fear some matters are forever beyond my limited understanding. I apologise for taking up your time."  He turns to leave. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt rubs his beard and the back of his head, looking aside at her response  "Maybe I'll learn to keep my mouth shut, sometimes. Maybe different people speak...ah, never mind it all..."  He trails off, shaking his head, listening to her story from Rhennar's childhood in silence. When Rhennar turns to leave, he turns with him. 
 

 "Defending and fleeing are not our only two options,"  Elynwena notes, as the two start to leave.  "We can strike out against our enemies, and drive them from our homeland for good. Or if we cannot... we can entrust allies with such a mission."  She reaches out to grab Rhenner's hand one more time as he turns.  "You understand, don't you, son?" 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia turns to Mithril with a grin.  "So can find horses! And if not dragon, maybe dragon allies."  She looks up at the eagle, a speck circling overhead against the sun. She'd always sort of wondered what it's like up there, nothing but wind against ears and ice forming on wings and fingertips. Would Lisk be strong enough to do that now?

 "Then...I could get fish for Sentry, and not strangers,"  Natalia jokes. Elyssa's suggestion pulls her back to the conversation at hand, and her mind races with every word. This is exactly what they need. The Horde and dragon can evade them forever in this forest, but they can't evade the forest itself.  "Could you...help us find enemy? Please?"  
 

 "You've lost your horses in Woodhelm, have you?"  Elyssa asks with a pleasant smile.  "I suppose I could help you find them." 

She glances up, and frowns as she looks down the path through the center of the town. Looking in the same direction, Natalia and Mithril can see a few elves and humans glancing out their doors. For some reason they seem wary of Elyssa.  "I'd rather leave sooner than later,"  the druid comments offhand.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Defending and fleeing are not our only two options,"  Elynwena notes, as the two start to leave.  "We can strike out against our enemies, and drive them from our homeland for good. Or if we cannot... we can entrust allies with such a mission."  She reaches out to grab Rhenner's hand one more time as he turns.  "You understand, don't you, son?"  
 

 "...Yes, I believe I do",  Rhenner replies, letting out a resigned sigh,  "We'll look into it." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "You've lost your horses in Woodhelm, have you?"  Elyssa asks with a pleasant smile.  "I suppose I could help you find them."  
 

 "Thank you!"  hopefully they haven't been eaten by the dragon yet, but Natalia isn't going to think about that right now.  "Can get Honey back,"  she smiles at Mithril.


 She glances up, and frowns as she looks down the path through the center of the town. Looking in the same direction, Natalia and Mithril can see a few elves and humans glancing out their doors. For some reason they seem wary of Elyssa.  "I'd rather leave sooner than later,"  the druid comments offhand. 

Natalia awkwardly waves a couple fingers at the elves and humans, all the while trying (and failing) to suppress a wince. She hates those stares, though now she does wonder why they're there. Perhaps mithrils paranoia is rubbing off on her.  "We need...get friends, talk Elynwena...is out town wait ok?" 
 
 Spoiler 
sense motive--if it's not appropriate or applicable please ignore.  (d20+6)[ 9 ] 

Natalia Bolts: the most trusting rogue in the world.
 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "...Yes, I believe I do",  Rhenner replies, letting out a resigned sigh,  "We'll look into it."  
 

Rhenner, Alder and Kurt depart. The cleric's brother claps his back in sympathy.  "If it helps, I've seen her act colder towards kin." 
 "Did you want to interrogate the captured orcs?"  Alder asks sincerely.  "She did suggest you could execute them yourselves too, and I can tell you she wasn't kidding..." 

The two half-elves and the dwarf step out onto into the town. Across the field they see Natalia and Mithril talking to Elyssa. Rhenner had never spoken to the druid, and had barely seen her since he was a child. His main recollection of her was that she was a bit of an outcast, for reasons the town elders had never articulated. Some elven parents had even gone to the point of warning their children against straying too far into the forest lest they come across her, though in Rhenner's understanding that had always been a bit overdramatic.

Alder grimaces a bit as he sees her.  "She's been helpful in driving off the barbarians these last few months... damn helpful,"  he notes.  "Normally she doesn't come into the town, though..." 
 
 Spoiler 

Earlier CWater asked if Rhenner knew anything about Elyssa; we're retconning it so that this is his first real time seeing (or at least giving thought to) her since the battle.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Rhenner, Alder and Kurt depart. The cleric's brother claps his back in sympathy.  "If it helps, I've seen her act colder towards kin."  
 

 "I don't doubt it, I consider myself lucky to get off so lightly",  Rhenner replies wryly, then turns to Kurt,  "Charming person my mother, isn't she? Oh, and if you noticed, we are now tasked with that mission we spoke of earlier. And we would better get to it, or  she will  on her own, and who knows what might become of that." 

  "Did you want to interrogate the captured orcs?"  Alder asks sincerely.  "She did suggest you could execute them yourselves too, and I can tell you she wasn't kidding..."  

 "I'm sure she wasn't",  Rhenner says tiredly,  "And I don't know about that, but I'm sure some of us would like to ask them a couple of questions. Getting answers might be unlikely, but you never know. Just don't leave Mithril alone with them."  He lets out a small sigh and rubs his forehead,  "I need a drink." 

 The two half-elves and the dwarf step out onto into the town. Across the field they see Natalia and Mithril talking to Elyssa. Rhenner had never spoken to the druid, and had barely seen her since he was a child. His main recollection of her was that she was a bit of an outcast, for reasons the town elders had never articulated. Some elven parents had even gone to the point of warning their children against straying too far into the forest lest they come across her, though in Rhenner's understanding that had always been a bit overdramatic.

Alder grimaces a bit as he sees her.  "She's been helpful in driving off the barbarians these last few months... damn helpful,"  he notes.  "Normally she doesn't come into the town, though..." 
 
 Spoiler 

Earlier CWater asked if Rhenner knew anything about Elyssa; we're retconning it so that this is his first real time seeing (or at least giving thought to) her since the battle.
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Works for me! Rhenner was in a hurry to see Elynwena after all.
 


Rhenner has to strain his memory to recall what Alder is talking about. "Oh, right... Is she the forest witch? Though that's a bit mean to call a druid, now that I think about it."  The cleric shrugs.  "I guess the Horde is as much of a threat to her than it is to us. Now, I don't suppose the inn is still up?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "You've lost your horses in Woodhelm, have you?"  Elyssa asks with a pleasant smile.  "I suppose I could help you find them." 

She glances up, and frowns as she looks down the path through the center of the town. Looking in the same direction, Natalia and Mithril can see a few elves and humans glancing out their doors. For some reason they seem wary of Elyssa.  "I'd rather leave sooner than later,"  the druid comments offhand. 
 

Mithril had been quiet for a while, but she spoke up again.   "Honey is important to me. Her previous two owners died to the Horde."   With that said she turned and walked toward the temple.   "I really should go pray.  I got interrupted by the fight." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril had been quiet for a while, but she spoke up again.   "Honey is important to me. Her previous two owners died to the Horde."   With that said she turned and walked toward the temple.   "I really should go pray.  I got interrupted by the fight."  
 

 "We find Honey. Promise,"  Natalia says. And if Honey isn't alive...well, she tries not to think about that too much.

 "I think...need speak to Elynwena,"  she says to the Druid.  "Hope rhenner still...ah!"  she looks up, noticing him, and waves him and Kurt down.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "We find Honey. Promise,"  Natalia says. And if Honey isn't alive...well, she tries not to think about that too much.

 "I think...need speak to Elynwena,"  she says to the Druid.  "Hope rhenner still...ah!"  she looks up, noticing him, and waves him and Kurt down. 
 

 "Our visit went pretty much as well as expected",   Rhenner says when they reach the others,  "I still think it is an unnecessary risk for the people to stay here, but mother has made up her mind. Seems like we might better pay a visit to Llenovia*, as soon as we can too. But right now",  he nods towards his brother,  "Alder here was just asking if we wanted to question the captured barbarians." 
 
 Spoiler 
*The elven city whose Provost supposedly knows what the orcs want.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Our visit went pretty much as well as expected",   Rhenner says when they reach the others,  "I still think it is an unnecessary risk for the people to stay here, but mother has made up her mind. Seems like we might better pay a visit to Llenovia*, as soon as we can too. But right now",  he nods towards his brother,  "Alder here was just asking if we wanted to question the captured barbarians." 
 
 Spoiler 
*The elven city whose Provost supposedly knows what the orcs want.
 
 
 

Natalia sighs. Of course.  "But that what voice wants. What if a trap? Probably is, and even if found strings...maybe no way to safely cut. Think I...speak to your mother. Maybe learn more, learn orcs too. Wish Shiny here, he knows tongues best..."  she trails off, looking back at mithril and Elyssa.  "Might have way to...find horses though. And maybe fight Horde too." 
Athedia
(Note, Mithril left a good while ago)

Mithril entered the church again, going over to the painting for Boccob.   "I don't know what to say now, but this is all so much.  I know you don't pay attention but right now we need a little bit of a watching eye." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia sighs. Of course.  "But that what voice wants. What if a trap? Probably is, and even if found strings...maybe no way to safely cut. Think I...speak to your mother. Maybe learn more, learn orcs too. Wish Shiny here, he knows tongues best..."  she trails off, looking back at mithril and Elyssa. 
 

 "You can if you think it'll help",  a nervous smile passes very briefly across Rhenner's face before he's back to serious,  "But be careful what you say to her though, she forgets nothing. Well, didn't used to anyway, and I've no reason to believe that changed. 

  "Might have way to...find horses though. And maybe fight Horde too."  

 "That's... nice",  Rhenner says somewhat awkwardly and nods to Elyssa,  "You want to help us?" 
Cavelcade
 "I guess, at least, we should do the questioning. And then the executions"  Kurt drums his fingers on the hilt of his sword as he frowns down at it.  "It's probably too much to ask for..."  Sighing, he looks at Rhennar.  "Where're the orcs, then?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "You can if you think it'll help",  a nervous smile passes very briefly across Rhenner's face before he's back to serious,  "But be careful what you say to her though, she forgets nothing. Well, didn't used to anyway, and I've no reason to believe that changed. 
 "That's... nice",  Rhenner says somewhat awkwardly and nods to Elyssa,  "You want to help us?"  
 

Natalia steps forward and claps her arms around Rhenner in a quick hug. She knows enough to know how painful things like this can be.  "I try careful. Promise." 

 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
  "I guess, at least, we should do the questioning. And then the executions"  Kurt drums his fingers on the hilt of his sword as he frowns down at it.  "It's probably too much to ask for..."  Sighing, he looks at Rhennar.  "Where're the orcs, then?"  
 

After all this, and he still wants to try and reform them. Kurt really is the best of them.  "Guess I help. Talk...elynwena later." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
  "I guess, at least, we should do the questioning. And then the executions"  Kurt drums his fingers on the hilt of his sword as he frowns down at it.  "It's probably too much to ask for..."  Sighing, he looks at Rhennar.  "Where're the orcs, then?"  
 

 "I'm sure Alder can lead you there",  Rhenner replies glancing at his brother, then rubs his forehead again.  "That... Am I needed there? Truth be told, I really don't feel up for an interrogation right now."  His gaze wanders about, until stopping at the temple.  "I suppose I should pray at some point too.." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia steps forward and claps her arms around Rhenner in a quick hug. She knows enough to know how painful things like this can be.  "I try careful. Promise."  
 

 "Good luck",  Rhenner smiles shortly at her.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
  "I guess, at least, we should do the questioning. And then the executions"  Kurt drums his fingers on the hilt of his sword as he frowns down at it.  "It's probably too much to ask for..."  Sighing, he looks at Rhennar.  "Where're the orcs, then?"  
 

Alder leads Elyssa, Kurt and Natalia to the courthouse.  "Jail's small, they're each in a cell in the same corridor,"  he tells them.  "We healed them just a bit from when we carried them in, enough that they're standing, but not any more than that, so they're pretty banged up. Didn't much like wasting our scrolls on them,"  he adds grumpily.

When the two walk into the courthouse they hear fierce shouting coming from the back, in the native Orc tongue. As they approach it sounds like the two are arguing.

 
 Spoiler 

Does anyone have Tongues active? Or speak Orc? Let me know if so and I'll translate. (They speak and understand Common too, though).
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I'm sure Alder can lead you there",  Rhenner replies glancing at his brother, then rubs his forehead again.  "That... Am I needed there? Truth be told, I really don't feel up for an interrogation right now."  His gaze wanders about, until stopping at the temple.  "I suppose I should pray at some point too.."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 (Note, Mithril left a good while ago)

Mithril entered the church again, going over to the painting for Boccob.   "I don't know what to say now, but this is all so much.  I know you don't pay attention but right now we need a little bit of a watching eye."  
 

Ilda, an experienced chaplain, steps out of the way discreetly when Mithril steps in to pray. But she walks up to greet Rhenner as the elf cleric enters.

 "Rhenner, how many years has it been?"  Ilda smiles softly. Her happiness to see him looks sincere.   "Arriving with your friends to drive off our latest threat. Should I thank Fharlaghn for this honor?"  She gestures over to a painting Rhenner recognizes well from prayers in his youth, depicting a wide landscape with a crossroads in the center. A figure recedes into the distance along one of the roads, representing the Dweller on the Horizon.

 
 Spoiler 

As she's one of the more religious members of the town (though she is non-denominational) I imagine Rhenner interacted quite a bit with Ilda. It's up to you whether he likes her but I don't have a historical reason he wouldn't. He knows Elyssa is her sister but nothing more than that.

Though they're speaking quietly and politely Mithril hears and can join if she wants to.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ilda, an experienced chaplain, steps out of the way discreetly when Mithril steps in to pray. But she walks up to greet Rhenner as the elf cleric enters.

 "Rhenner, how many years has it been?"  Ilda smiles softly. Her happiness to see him looks sincere.   "Arriving with your friends to drive off our latest threat. Should I thank Fharlaghn for this honor?"  She gestures over to a painting Rhenner recognizes well from prayers in his youth, depicting a wide landscape with a crossroads in the center. A figure recedes into the distance along one of the roads, representing the Dweller on the Horizon.

 
 Spoiler 

As she's one of the more religious members of the town (though she is non-denominational) I imagine Rhenner interacted quite a bit with Ilda. It's up to you whether he likes her but I don't have a historical reason he wouldn't. He knows Elyssa is her sister but nothing more than that.

Though they're speaking quietly and politely Mithril hears and can join if she wants to.
 
 
 

 "I do thank Him",  Rhenner replies, returning the smile, though the weary expression doesn't quite leave his eyes,  "It's good to see you, Ilda, it's been... many years indeed."  He turns to look at the painting, relaxing a little.  "It's still the same one... I wondered sometimes if you might have changed it over the years or not. I recall staring at it many times, thinking about the roads leading to different places. Now I wonder if half of them actually go in circles." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Alder leads Elyssa, Kurt and Natalia to the courthouse.  "Jail's small, they're each in a cell in the same corridor,"  he tells them.  "We healed them just a bit from when we carried them in, enough that they're standing, but not any more than that, so they're pretty banged up. Didn't much like wasting our scrolls on them,"  he adds grumpily.

When the two walk into the courthouse they hear fierce shouting coming from the back, in the native Orc tongue. As they approach it sounds like the two are arguing.

 
 Spoiler 

Does anyone have Tongues active? Or speak Orc? Let me know if so and I'll translate. (They speak and understand Common too, though).
 
 R] 
 

Natalia doesn't know what the orcs are saying, but they sound angry. What were they thinking, doing this without a translation spell?  "Do you have, or...know any language spells?"  she asks Alder before turning to Kurt.  "So...what should ask?" 
Cavelcade
 "Why they're here and what they want. I'd like...there's no time for more."  He grips the hilt of Daybreaker, looking down at it sternly before turning to walk in.  "Maybe they speak our language? A bit of luck would be nice for once..." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
  "Why they're here and what they want. I'd like...there's no time for more."  He grips the hilt of Daybreaker, looking down at it sternly before turning to walk in.  "Maybe they speak our language? A bit of luck would be nice for once..."  
 

 "We...could ask."  while waiting for Alder Natalia turns to the orcs and shouts,  "HEY! You...speak common?" 
CWater
After finishing his conversation with Ilda, Rhenner stays in front of the Fharlanghn's painting for a time, first he just stares then prays too, though his prayer is short and not very coherent. He doesn't really know what to say, and no verses he remembers from the scriptures feel quite right either.

He starts to slowly walk around the temple, counting the familiar pictures still on the walls, briefly wondering what they did to the old ones that were changed. He stops not too far from Mithril and the painting of Boccob; he'd noticed the wizard when he first came in but hadn't wanted to disturb her, and there had been Ilda to greet him. He's not much more sure of what he wants to say to her than what he should say in prayer to Fharlanghn, but he felt talking to a friend might not be a bad thing right now. Not that he was sure if he and Mithril could be considered friends, and who knew what the wizard was thinking. But then again, they were involved in the same mess, and considering everything that was going on, some degree of trust was required, was it not? Although...

Noticing the danger of starting to think circles, Rhenner spoke up,  "They have quite a different temple here than most you see."  He gestured towards the paintings.  "I've rarely seen anything quite like this approach, not that others in Eldgar wouldn't have their ways of being creative." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 After finishing his conversation with Ilda, Rhenner stays in front of the Fharlanghn's painting for a time, first he just stares then prays too, though his prayer is short and not very coherent. He doesn't really know what to say, and no verses he remembers from the scriptures feel quite right either.

He starts to slowly walk around the temple, counting the familiar pictures still on the walls, briefly wondering what they did to the old ones that were changed. He stops not too far from Mithril and the painting of Boccob; he'd noticed the wizard when he first came in but hadn't wanted to disturb her, and there had been Ilda to greet him. He's not much more sure of what he wants to say to her than what he should say in prayer to Fharlanghn, but he felt talking to a friend might not be a bad thing right now. Not that he was sure if he and Mithril could be considered friends, and who knew what the wizard was thinking. But then again, they were involved in the same mess, and considering everything that was going on, some degree of trust was required, was it not? Although...

Noticing the danger of starting to thinking circles, Rhenner spoke up,  "They have quite a different temple here than most you see."  He gestured towards the paintings.  "I've rarely seen anything quite like this approach, not that others in Eldgar wouldn't have their ways of being creative."  
 

Mithril looked up and smiled.  She liked this temple much more than the others she had seen in Eldgar.   "The dwarves had a nice temple, but this is the first one I have seen here that puts Boccob with the other gods.  It feels like this place treats him as an afterthought, but where would we be without him?  One of my brothers is in training to be a cleric of him and he has to help teach the local children as part of his training.  When I left Opal was all excited that her big brother was going to teach her in her first year of lessons."   Mithril's smile faded and she looked down at her hands.   "I haven't talked to them since I left.  Alexander might have finished his training by now." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril looked up and smiled.  She liked this temple much more than the others she had seen in Eldgar.   "The dwarves had a nice temple, but this is the first one I have seen here that puts Boccob with the other gods.  It feels like this place treats him as an afterthought, but where would we be without him?  One of my brothers is in training to be a cleric of him and he has to help teach the local children as part of his training.  When I left Opal was all excited that her big brother was going to teach her in her first year of lessons."   Mithril's smile faded and she looked down at her hands.   "I haven't talked to them since I left.  Alexander might have finished his training by now."  
 

Rhenner smiles sadly.  "Seems like we have something in common then. Though I seriously hope it won't take you  as long to visit home as it did me. You've at least got the excuse of being caught in this threat-to-the-world mess."  He turns to look at Boccob's painting.  "You might be right, in saying that he's not as revered here as he perhaps should. They wouldn't admit it, but I think you can blame it on the division between the Church and the Institute, at least partially. His clerics are caught in between, so to speak. Still, there are those that worship him, even though they might be few."

"You know, I knew a cleric of Boccob once",  he adds after a moment of silence,  "...He was a good friend."  Rhenner scratches his head, then turns back to Mithril.  "You have many siblings?",  he returns to the earlier topic.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner smiles sadly.  "Seems like we have something in common then. Though I seriously hope it won't take you  as long to visit home as it did me. You've at least got the excuse of being caught in this threat-to-the-world mess."  He turns to look at Boccob's painting.  "You might be right, in saying that he's not as revered here as he perhaps should. They wouldn't admit it, but I think you can blame it on the division between the Church and the Institute, at least partially. His clerics are caught in between, so to speak. Still, there are those that worship him, even though they might be few."

"You know, I knew a cleric of Boccob once",  he adds after a moment of silence,  "...He was a good friend."  Rhenner scratches his head, then turns back to Mithril.  "You have many siblings?",  he returns to the earlier topic. 
 

Mithril nodded along with Rhenner's analysis of Boccob's worship, pausing a little at his mention of his friend.  "I think both have it wrong.  The Church and Institute I mean.  They both have these archives of knowledge and poof!"   She clapped her hands together.   "No access."   She looked at the mark on the back of her hand before shoving them into her pockets.   "Boccob shows that that there is no firm line between the two groups, but drawing these lines only creates suspicion.  Things aren't perfect where I am from, but this all is just a veneer of sanity.  No wonder the Voice is doing so well.  Everyone just wants more power for their own groups."   She glared at the portrait of Saint Cuthbert and then looked back at Rhenner.

 "As for my siblings, I have six.  I am oldest. Nicholas is a little younger, just a year and then there is Ruby.  She was the first married, and only.  Then Alexander.  Then the twins, Richard and Pearl.  Opal is the youngest, only five.  She is our surprise." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "We...could ask."  while waiting for Alder Natalia turns to the orcs and shouts,  "HEY! You...speak common?"  
 

The orc in the closer cell looks towards Natalia and grabs the bars.  "Come a bit closer and I'll whisper it to you,"  he growls, his eyes fixed on her neck. Blood drips from under his arm in a wound that Natalia realizes she'd made.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The orc in the closer cell looks towards Natalia and grabs the bars.  "Come a bit closer and I'll whisper it to you,"  he growls, his eyes fixed on her neck. Blood drips from under his arm in a wound that Natalia realizes she'd made. 
 

Natalia swallows, her gaze fixed on that wound.  "Can hear fine here,"  she says, looking at Kurt,  "even whispers."  She pauses.  "You know other orcs in Horde, their missions?" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia swallows, her gaze fixed on that wound.  "Can hear fine here,"  she says, looking at Kurt,  "even whispers."  She pauses.  "You know other orcs in Horde, their missions?"  
 

 "You killed the orcs I knew,"  he growls bitterly.  "I'll do the same to you." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril nodded along with Rhenner's analysis of Boccob's worship, pausing a little at his mention of his friend.  "I think both have it wrong.  The Church and Institute I mean.  They both have these archives of knowledge and poof!"   She clapped her hands together.   "No access."   She looked at the mark on the back of her hand before shoving them into her pockets.   "Boccob shows that that there is no firm line between the two groups, but drawing these lines only creates suspicion.  Things aren't perfect where I am from, but this all is just a veneer of sanity.  No wonder the Voice is doing so well.  Everyone just wants more power for their own groups."   She glared at the portrait of Saint Cuthbert and then looked back at Rhenner.

 "As for my siblings, I have six.  I am oldest. Nicholas is a little younger, just a year and then there is Ruby.  She was the first married, and only.  Then Alexander.  Then the twins, Richard and Pearl.  Opal is the youngest, only five.  She is our surprise."  
 

 "Still quite a manageable number. I hope you excuse me for not attempting to make a similar list",  a hint of a smirk passes through Rhenner's face,  "Though I hesitate to ask if your jewellers or miners?" 

He too looks at the mark on his right hand,  "Eldgar... surely has its problems with the Guilds. Still, many would claim things work better that now than in times before they were formed, when Eldgar still had one government. Though I'm sure the Founders didn't intend for the Guilds to feud so much as they do." 
Cavelcade
 "This is war."  Kurt says it dispassionately, his arms crossed tightly. "What are you arguing about?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Still quite a manageable number. I hope you excuse me for not attempting to make a similar list",  a hint of a smirk passes through Rhenner's face,  "Though I hesitate to ask if your jewellers or miners?" 

He too looks at the mark on his right hand,  "Eldgar... surely has its problems with the Guilds. Still, many would claim things work better that now than in times before they were formed, when Eldgar still had one government. Though I'm sure the Founders didn't intend for the Guilds to feud so much as they do."  
 

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry it took so long.  Sunday is homework day
 


Mithril smiled and shook her head.   "Tailors. Richard and Pearl looked the most likely to take over the business.  If they can stop fighting long enough to talk to customers.  I'm Mithril because of my eyes.  My parents changed the spelling a little but it didn't really help.  My sisters were an attempt to follow the theme. Though they switched to jewels after realizing that naming a girl Adamantine was not a good idea."   She sighed and a worried look came to her face.   "I don't know if the others get it.  Natalia rarely talks of her family and Kurt might not have one for all he has mentioned it.  But if I can't stop Him, can't stop the Horde...-"   She looked up at the picture of Fharlanghn and then at the one of Boccob.   "I wish I knew their plans.  I wish my spells could see the future and tell me if this is all going to be worthwhile." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler 
Sorry it took so long.  Sunday is homework day
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
No worries, I understand. It is usually for me too.
 


 Mithril smiled and shook her head.   "Tailors. Richard and Pearl looked the most likely to take over the business.  If they can stop fighting long enough to talk to customers.  I'm Mithril because of my eyes.  My parents changed the spelling a little but it didn't really help.  My sisters were an attempt to follow the theme. Though they switched to jewels after realizing that naming a girl Adamantine was not a good idea."  

 "I wouldn't consider it a good idea to give to anyone who's expected to grow up with other children",  Rhenner remarks accompanied by a smirk.


 She sighed and a worried look came to her face.   "I don't know if the others get it.  Natalia rarely talks of her family and Kurt might not have one for all he has mentioned it.  But if I can't stop Him, can't stop the Horde...-"  

 "I... believe they do understand. I heard Kurt mention his home in passing in the meeting with my mother. But even without that, I've come to think that most people have some place or some people they wish for the world would not come to harm."  There's a faraway look in his eyes.  "I tried to convince mother to have the town evacuated, go somewhere more safe; she wouldn't hear of it."   He looks at his hand, clenching air with it.  "I do care, despite the suspicions to the contrary, which may not be entirely unjustified. But I   don't  believe places are worth more than lives."  He sighs and sports an askew smile, half sad half bitter.  "Guess that's just one of those things I just can't comprehend." 

 She looked up at the picture of Fharlanghn and then at the one of Boccob.   "I wish I knew their plans.  I wish my spells could see the future and tell me if this is all going to be worthwhile."  

 "Knowing their plans might be helpful, and yet things might not turn out that way at all. No god alone decides the fate of the world, and with all no wonder it's a mess. Then again, perhaps it would be even worse with only a few, I've come across some I'd dread to see in charge."

"What do you think the Voice is?",  he asks suddenly,  "A forgotten god? A demon from the lower planes? Or a mortal who found more power than was healthy?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "You killed the orcs I knew,"  he growls bitterly.  "I'll do the same to you."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
  "This is war."  Kurt says it dispassionately, his arms crossed tightly. "What are you arguing about?"  
 

 "Same thing...we would."  Natalia laughs, just as sharp and bitter and she slides her hand down the front of her face.  "Then we same. If you killed friends I know...I be like you too."  a pause as Henry...and shiny, and Kurt, flash through her head.  "Already have."  She looks at Kurt.  "Why start fight if know...goes like this?" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
  "This is war."  Kurt says it dispassionately, his arms crossed tightly. "What are you arguing about?"  
 

The other orc sticks his head out a bit from the bars.  "Urgon was weak,"  he laughs, and Kurt recognizes him as an orc he himself had knocked out.  "Beaten by woman." 

At this, "Urgon" shakes the bars of his own cell violently.


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Same thing...we would."  Natalia laughs, just as sharp and bitter and she slides her hand down the front of her face.  "Then we same. If you killed friends I know...I be like you too."  a pause as Henry...and shiny, and Kurt, flash through her head.  "Already have."  She looks at Kurt.  "Why start fight if know...goes like this?"  
 

 
 Spoiler 

I think I'm not clear what Natalia is asking? Apologies
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I... believe they do understand. I heard Kurt mention his home in passing in the meeting with my mother. But even without that, I've come to think that most people have some place or some people they wish for the world would not come to harm."  There's a faraway look in his eyes.  "I tried to convince mother to have the town evacuated, go somewhere more safe; she wouldn't hear of it."   He looks at his hand, clenching air with it.  "I do care, despite the suspicions to the contrary, which may not be entirely unjustified. But I   don't  believe places are worth more than lives."  He sighs and sports an askew smile, half sad half bitter.  "Guess that's just one of those things I just can't comprehend." 
 "Knowing their plans might be helpful, and yet things might not turn out that way at all. No god alone decides the fate of the world, and with all no wonder it's a mess. Then again, perhaps it would be even worse with only a few, I've come across some I'd dread to see in charge."

"What do you think the Voice is?",  he asks suddenly,  "A forgotten god? A demon from the lower planes? Or a mortal who found more power than was healthy?"  
 

Mithril looked up a little startled at his question.   "I.... I don't know.  He or it, no He is is angry.  A demon wouldn't be this methodical.  He is patient too, not something I would call a god.  For all the guile and skill he has in talking I think the third option holds the most truth.  Power is... power is scary.  The idea that you can get away with anything and that no-one has a hope of stopping you-." 

She turned her hand over looking at the mark again.   "A story I read as a child told of a man who tried to master Death.  He made his home a fortress, sealing away the walls and doors so that even as the man lay dying Death could not enter.  The man sat in a chair in the center of his sealed room and laughed.  And as he laughed he breathed in the last breath of clean air in the room, for not even air could work it's way through his barriers.  And that's when the man realized.  He couldn't seal out Death, it existed everywhere." 

She paused for a moment and then spoke again.   "I reread that story when I was older.  But instead of thinking the man a fool for attempting to cheat death, I thought him a fool for failing.  Spells could have preserved his life, certain acts could have made him unable to die.  It is those thoughts that lead to the Voice.  It is why he only attacks those who climb high enough that to fall would kill them." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril looked up a little startled at his question.   "I.... I don't know.  He or it, no He is is angry.  A demon wouldn't be this methodical.  He is patient too, not something I would call a god.  For all the guile and skill he has in talking I think the third option holds the most truth.  Power is... power is scary.  The idea that you can get away with anything and that no-one has a hope of stopping you-." 

She turned her hand over looking at the mark again.   "A story I read as a child told of a man who tried to master Death.  He made his home a fortress, sealing away the walls and doors so that even as the man lay dying Death could not enter.  The man sat in a chair in the center of his sealed room and laughed.  And as he laughed he breathed in the last breath of clean air in the room, for not even air could work it's way through his barriers.  And that's when the man realized.  He couldn't seal out Death, it existed everywhere." 

She paused for a moment and then spoke again.   "I reread that story when I was older.  But instead of thinking the man a fool for attempting to cheat death, I thought him a fool for failing.  Spells could have preserved his life, certain acts could have made him unable to die.  It is those thoughts that lead to the Voice.  It is why he only attacks those who climb high enough that to fall would kill them."  
 

 "The wisdom you lose when you grow up."  This time the smirk is dark.  "So they refuse to fall, and then he has them, you say? Pride is a curious thing, you'd think it's your strength, right until it becomes your downfall."  Now he looks very concerned.  "I worry about mother. She is anything but stupid, but everyone can be tempted, you just need to offer the right thing. And even more so if it's made to look like listening is the right thing to do. I got the feeling mother suspected Voice mainly due to the convenience of his appearance. She has a sceptical mind, I suspect, another might have chosen to believe his guidance to be divine intervention." 

Rhenner gives Mithril a long look, studying her expression.  "The Voice spoke to you too? What do you think that tells? Since you seem to have both high and low regard for those he speaks to." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "The wisdom you lose when you grow up."  This time the smirk is dark.  "So they refuse to fall, and then he has them, you say? Pride is a curious thing, you'd think it's your strength, right until it becomes your downfall."  Now he looks very concerned.  "I worry about mother. She is anything but stupid, but everyone can be tempted, you just need to offer the right thing. And even more so if it's made to look like listening is the right thing to do. I got the feeling mother suspected Voice mainly due to the convenience of his appearance. She has a sceptical mind, I suspect, another might have chosen to believe his guidance to be divine intervention." 

Rhenner gives Mithril a long look, studying her expression.  "The Voice spoke to you too? What do you think that tells? Since you seem to have both high and low regard for those he speaks to."  
 

Mithril looked up a little surprised as Rhenner mentioned his mother hearing the Voice.  When he directed the questions toward her, she sank down onto the floor and buried her face in her hands.   "I did talk to him.  Twice.  I have heard him another time as well, but that was in another's mind.  Maybe that was how he spotted me.  I was an easy target and at an opportune time.  I thought he had been able to hear all my thoughts, that I was the reason Deldon went so wrong.  But he must have gotten to someone else, promised them something."   She looked up at the picture of Boccob again, letting out a long sigh.   "I don't know what it means that he got to me.  A little flattered that he considers me a threat I guess.  A little terrified of what that might mean." 
 "You love your mother right?  She is an impressively powerful woman, but at the same time you think her foolish for not fleeing while she can.  You can both respect her as a matriarch and pity her as stubborn but neither cancels the other." 

Mithril stood and brushed the dust off the knees of her pants.   "The others must wonder where we are.  We have so much work ahead of us and not enough time to finish it." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril looked up a little surprised as Rhenner mentioned his mother hearing the Voice.  When he directed the questions toward her, she sank down onto the floor and buried her face in her hands.   "I did talk to him.  Twice.  I have heard him another time as well, but that was in another's mind.  Maybe that was how he spotted me.  I was an easy target and at an opportune time.  I thought he had been able to hear all my thoughts, that I was the reason Deldon went so wrong.  But he must have gotten to someone else, promised them something."   She looked up at the picture of Boccob again, letting out a long sigh.   "I don't know what it means that he got to me.  A little flattered that he considers me a threat I guess.  A little terrified of what that might mean." 
 "You love your mother right?  She is an impressively powerful woman, but at the same time you think her foolish for not fleeing while she can.  You can both respect her as a matriarch and pity her as stubborn but neither cancels the other."  
 

Rhenner is startled when Mithril suddenly slumps down and listens to her explanation without interruption.  "You might have the right of it. And, perhaps have more sense that I give you credit for. Maybe the question asked was... irrelevant."  He offers his hand to her.


 Mithril stood and brushed the dust off the knees of her pants.   "The others must wonder where we are.  We have so much work ahead of us and not enough time to finish it."  

 "Yes. I believe Natalia and Kurt went to question the captured orcs. I can't say I know exactly where, but I doubt the prison is hard to find. One of the townspeople can probably point you in their direction." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner is startled when Mithril suddenly slumps down and listens to her explanation without interruption.  "You might have the right of it. And, perhaps have more sense that I give you credit for. Maybe the question asked was... irrelevant."  He offers his hand to her.



 "Yes. I believe Natalia and Kurt went to question the captured orcs. I can't say I know exactly where, but I doubt the prison is hard to find. One of the townspeople can probably point you in their direction."  
 

Mithril accepted his hand, as she got up from the floor.  "Do either of them even speak Orcish?  No matter.  Would you like to join me in going there or were you planning to pray?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril accepted his hand, as she got up from the floor.  "Do either of them even speak Orcish?  No matter.  Would you like to join me in going there or were you planning to pray?"  
 

Rhenner shakes his head.  "I'd like to stay and pray for a little longer. Not that I know exactly what, but maybe it'll come to me, isn't that also the point of prayer?",  he smiles wearily,  "And I don't see how I would be of much help in the interrogation. Just... don't poke them with anything too sharp, alright?"  His tone is not stingy though, more like he's trying to make a joke.

 "It was... good talking to you, Mithril",  the half-elf adds before the wizard leaves,  "I know we don't always agree, but I do respect you." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner shakes his head.  "I'd like to stay and pray for a little longer. Not that I know exactly what, but maybe it'll come to me, isn't that also the point of prayer?",  he smiles wearily,  "And I don't see how I would be of much help in the interrogation. Just... don't poke them with anything too sharp, alright?"  His tone is not stingy though, more like he's trying to make a joke.

 "It was... good talking to you, Mithril",  the half-elf adds before the wizard leaves,  "I know we don't always agree, but I do respect you."  
 

Mithril started to walk away, leaving the temple.  As Rhenner makes his last comment she turned and smiled.  "Same."   Mithril made her way to the prison, asking for directions until she made it to the building.  Walking in she cast Tongues on herself.   "How's it going?  Find out where they came from?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril started to walk away, leaving the temple.  As Rhenner makes his last comment she turned and smiled.  "Same."   Mithril made her way to the prison, asking for directions until she made it to the building.  Walking in she cast Tongues on herself.   "How's it going?  Find out where they came from?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The other orc sticks his head out a bit from the bars.  "Urgon was weak,"  he laughs, and Kurt recognizes him as an orc he himself had knocked out.  "Beaten by woman." 

At this, "Urgon" shakes the bars of his own cell violently.



 
 Spoiler 

I think I'm not clear what Natalia is asking? Apologies
 
 
 

 "No,"  Natalia says, her voice a bit distant.  "Just that they...think women weak."  She turns to the other Orc, ignoring Urgon for a moment though she speaks loud enough for both to hear. Her voice comes out deliberately cool and clipped, her anger funneled into an attempt to line her words up in a row.
 "Remember Soshima? Your flamepowder ship, sail shrapnel down river. You know how failed, how ship exploded...with half Horde camp? Was no accident." 

With one hand, Natalia lights a match. With her other hand she takes out a pinch of the flamepowder. She blows it in the orcs direction, then tosses the lit match into the cloud of dust. It bursts with a loud pop and a puff of flame and soot, which dusts her face.

 "Was woman. Was me." 
Athedia
Mithril came up and laid a hand on Natalia's shoulder.   "&lt;Orc&gt;She has killed more of your people than our dwarf here.  As for that, we can do this two ways.  The town gave us permission to execute you, so you decide cooperate and go quickly or shall we take our time? &lt;/Orc&gt;" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "No,"  Natalia says, her voice a bit distant.  "Just that they...think women weak."  She turns to the other Orc, ignoring Urgon for a moment though she speaks loud enough for both to hear. Her voice comes out deliberately cool and clipped, her anger funneled into an attempt to line her words up in a row.
 "Remember Soshima? Your flamepowder ship, sail shrapnel down river. You know how failed, how ship exploded...with half Horde camp? Was no accident." 

With one hand, Natalia lights a match. With her other hand she takes out a pinch of the flamepowder. She blows it in the orcs direction, then tosses the lit match into the cloud of dust. It bursts with a loud pop and a puff of flame and soot, which dusts her face.

 "Was woman. Was me."  
 

The orc's eyes widen. Urgon seems a bit more puzzled, and calls out something in Orcish- after a brief exchange between the two prisoners he looks back at Natalia and bares his teeth at her as well.

 "Who are you?"  he snarls.

Elynwena, who has been quiet throughout, seems equally surprised by Natalia's demonstration, and raises her eyebrows at the rogue.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril came up and laid a hand on Natalia's shoulder.   "&lt;Orc&gt;She has killed more of your people than our dwarf here.  As for that, we can do this two ways.  The town gave us permission to execute you, so you decide cooperate and go quickly or shall we take our time? &lt;/Orc&gt;"  
 

 "You..."  the orc takes a moment to think of the word in the common tongue,  "torture?"  He laughs at the idea.  "What do... you know of pain, human?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The orc's eyes widen. Urgon seems a bit more puzzled, and calls out something in Orcish- after a brief exchange between the two prisoners he looks back at Natalia and bares his teeth at her as well.

 "Who are you?"  he snarls.

Elynwena, who has been quiet throughout, seems equally surprised by Natalia's demonstration, and raises her eyebrows at the rogue.



 "You..."  the orc takes a moment to think of the word in the common tongue,  "torture?"  He laughs at the idea.  "What do... you know of pain, human?"  
 

 "&lt;Orc&gt;I speak and understand your tongue. And I am a mage, we have... other ways of extracting information.  As for pain... the psychical is only the beginning. &lt;/Orc&gt;  
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The orc's eyes widen. Urgon seems a bit more puzzled, and calls out something in Orcish- after a brief exchange between the two prisoners he looks back at Natalia and bares his teeth at her as well.

 "Who are you?"  he snarls.

Elynwena, who has been quiet throughout, seems equally surprised by Natalia's demonstration, and raises her eyebrows at the rogue. 
 

 "What they say?"  Natalia asks in a whisper to mithril. Although she can hazard a guess, by the look on their faces. She hasn't seen many people afraid of her outside combat before. It's unnerving.

 
 Spoiler: admiral 
May edit this or make a new post depending on what they say and mithril chooses to translate.
 

 "I...Natalia Bolts. Stopped you before, and will again. Exploded half Horde, and will explode rest...unless you stop it...by talk." 

  "You..."  the orc takes a moment to think of the word in the common tongue,  "torture?"  He laughs at the idea.  "What do... you know of pain, human?"  

Natalia turns to mithril with alarm. Just what did she threaten in the Orcish tongue? When the rogue turns back to the orcs she looks exhausted...and sad.  "She made drow talk. Please...no test her."  
Admiral
 
 Spoiler: Athedia 

What the two orcs were shouting at each other was  &lt;Orc&gt;"What did she say?""The fireball at the Norgonne camp, she says it was her." "The camp the samurai took?" "Yes, you fool." "Impossible!" 

Also, retconning it so that the orc replied to Mithril's query in Orc, see above.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "&lt;Orc&gt;I speak and understand your tongue. And I am a mage, we have... other ways of extracting information.  As for pain... the psychical is only the beginning. &lt;/Orc&gt;   
 

 
 Spoiler 

I'll need an Intimidate check from Mithril (and Natalia). If she doesn't have Detect Thoughts or an Enchantment spell prepared I'd also need a Bluff check- I am not sure what she has of now. Speaking of which, where can I find your current spell list?  I think this one is outdated since it says it was last edited over a year ago. 

I'll hold off orc's response to Natalia as well from results of this check.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler:  
Updated it, sorry about that.  Things got a little slow in there.  I started keeping more track on my character sheet for my other characters but stuck to using a sticky note on my computer for Mithril.  Got lazy there.  I'll transfer over to character sheet eventually.
 

 
 Spoiler: Checks 
Intimidate:  (1d20+1)[ 2 ]   I think Mithril is still a little of kilter/guilty feeling from her talk with Rhenner
Bluff:  (1d20+1)[ 14 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler: intimidate 
Intimidate:  (d20-1)[ 2 ] 

That's not much better. 😛
Do I get a bonus for what I just said? If so, how much?
 
Admiral
Urgon laughs at Mithril's threat, a deep and joyless laugh that brings to mind a clan cackling as they toss innocents into a fire.

 "&lt;Orc&gt;I have seen mages in war, puny human. You have nothing that frightens me now.&lt;/Orc&gt;" 
Athedia
 "&lt;Orc&gt;Fine then. &lt;/Orc&gt; Kurt, could we tie them up and lead them to the dragon?  They could allow enough distraction for us to retrieve our horses and a full dragon should not bother the town." 
CWater
After Mithril had left Rhenner returned to Fharlanghn's painting and sat down to pray and meditate. So much had happened today, returning to this town, the orcs' attack,  the dragon! ... They had just set out to meet the other group that needed help with something- Right, the Hulburg group... they should probably hear that this party wasn't going to reach them today, even if they left right away.

Rhenner considered for a moment who to contact. The leader in Hulburg had named Lucius as the one he'd trusted most information with, but Rhenner also remembered what the man had argued in Deldon, for which the cleric loathed him. And still... He let out a deep sigh. Fine, presumably it was best to talk to the one with most knowledge, and he actually wasn't sure how much the others in that group knew about Voice and his abilities.

The cleric closed his eyes and started to cast the Sending spell. He mouthed the words he said, but made no sound so no one could overhear by mistake.
 "Delayed by dragon. Teleported away, dragon still around in forest. Found out Voice has told Woodhelm leaders to ask Llenovia's Institute Provost about Horde raids."  
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 After Mithril had left Rhenner returned to Fharlanghn's painting and sat down to pray and meditate. So much had happened today, returning to this town, the orcs' attack,  the dragon! ... They had just set out to meet the other group that needed help with something- Right, the Hulburg group... they should probably hear that this party wasn't going to reach them today, even if they left right away.

Rhenner considered for a moment who to contact. The leader in Hulburg had named Lucius as the one he'd trusted most information with, but Rhenner also remembered what the man had argued in Deldon, for which the cleric loathed him. And still... He let out a deep sigh. Fine, presumably it was best to talk to the one with most knowledge, and he actually wasn't sure how much the others in that group knew about Voice and his abilities.

The cleric closed his eyes and started to cast the Sending spell. He mouthed the words he said, but made no sound so no one could overhear by mistake.
 "Delayed by dragon. Teleported away, dragon still around in forest. Found out Voice has told Woodhelm leaders to ask Llenovia's Institute Provost about Horde raids."   
 

There's a brief pause, presumably as Lucius composes a response, then a thin voice enters Rhenner's head.


 Intel confirms ours. Spotted red dragon southern horizon at dawn. Hooded orc, barbarians, giants east of Stockwood. Meet us at Stockwood gates by noon tomorrow. 

Rhenner recalls that Stockwood is a largely human settlement about ten miles west of Llenovia, a bit larger than his home.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 There's a brief pause, presumably as Lucius composes a response, then a thin voice enters Rhenner's head.


Rhenner recalls that Stockwood is a largely human settlement about ten miles west of Llenovia, a bit larger than his home. 
 

  Right. Well, I suppose we can make it there.   Rhenner thinks to himself. So was Stockwood the next target? And this hooded orc, who had caused havoc on two continents now... Frustrated, he chased the thought away from his head along with the others, he needed some peace and quiet for a moment. To calm his mind, to meditate on everything he'd seen and learned, and hopefully organise it all somehow to make it easier to approach and handle.

The cleric sat still, praying and thinking, for quite some time.

 
 Spoiler 
Rhenner will tell the others of the exchange, though that'll be after they've dealt with the orcs.
 
Cavelcade
Kurt glances at Mithril, then back at the orcs weighing the options in his mind.  "She has nothing to scare you with, is that what you believe...?"  He laughs, shaking his head.  "I suppose you don't know her like I do. You ever see a Drider leave its web once it sees its prey? Or a Drow that would give in to a human as if she were the high priestess? Dwarves won't cross her, even gods take notice of her. Not knowing is one thing, but you better start learning fast or the dragon will be the least of your worries."  He rests his hands on on the crossguard or Daybreaker, using it to relax against as he watches them.

 
 Spoiler 

I knew all those ranks in intimidate would be useful!

 (1d20+11)[ 16 ] 

Or...maybe not.
 
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

Opposed modified will saves:

Urgon:  (1d20+10)[ 26 ] 
Other:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
 
Admiral
Kurt is effective and eloquent in his threats, but it seems the orcs' knowledge of the common tongue is not sufficient for them to understand the subtleties in his threat (in particular, they seem unfamiliar with the words "drider" and "drow"). Besides which, they seem resigned to their own deaths.

The pair of prisoners laugh and shout at the party from their cells, seeming to have regained their spirit. They shout in a tongue only Mithril understands.  "&lt;Orc&gt;Your homes and forest will burn!&lt;/Orc&gt;"  Urgon shouts with glee.  "&lt;Orc&gt;The Horde will conquer all!&lt;/Orc&gt;" 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia doesn't know what they're saying, but she can get the gist. She grimaces and says,  "Don't think...we get anywhere. A
Just...finish?" 
Athedia
 "&lt;Orc&gt;Fine.  If it is to be that way.&lt;/Orc&gt;"   She looked around the room, squinting a little.   "Is it just me or do they keep these cells a little dark?  Might as well brighten it up in here before we leave."  She pulled a small marble like object out of her pouch, rolling it between her fingers before tossing it to the ground.  Bright light almost like that of the sun burst forth filling the area.   "That's better."   She walked toward the door of the jail, looking back to Kurt and Natalia.   "Kurt, you decide if they deserve a clean death or if they should try to consult the dragon. 
 
 Spoiler 
Use Daylight Pellet.  Yes, she might be petty.
 
Cavelcade
Blinking a bit at the sudden light, he sighs at the orcs' reactions.  "It's not about what they deserve. It's about the standards we hold ourselves to. We'll get the horses back ourselves, after we deal with this."  His voice is mostly even as he says it, but his grip on Daybreaker tightens while he advances towards the cells.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Yeah..."  Natalia winces at the sudden light but quickly recovers.  "We need...be better."  She sighs, draws her blades, and follows Kurt into the cell.
Admiral
The two orcs in the separate cells squint and snarl when Mithril activates her stone and light floods the room. They may be used to attacking during the day, but it is clear that it bothers them.

As Kurt approaches the bars, they step back and hold their arms in front of themselves defensively.
Admiral
 "Whenever your flesh is wounded, it is invaded. Invaded by a foreign enemy- the tip of a spear or the edge of a sword carries a living army too small to see. This is  infection ." 

Elyssa speaks more calmly now that she has left the borders of the city, the tension that had characterized her encounters with her sister now drained away. She walks with the party along a dirt path lined with trees, now a few miles from Rhenner's hometown. She nods grimly at Natalia's blades, as she herself carries a quarterstaff. It's been only thirty minutes since Natalia wiped the blood of an executed orc from that blade.  "Our bodies have defenses against such infections, each wound becoming a battleground. When we die we can no longer fight them, and that is  decay ." 

Elyssa breathes in the forest air.  "Just as every wound is an invasion, every invasion is a wound. And Woodhelm, this great and terrible creature, is wounded, and the barbarian infection is spreading. But the forest has begun to fight back." 

She whistles into the air for the third time in several minutes in what the others can recognize as fluent birdsong, the gift of a spell she'd cast. Robins in the trees around the path call out a chorus of replies.  "Normally robins are not terribly helpful,"  she confides to the party with a smile.  "Downright obnoxious, in fact, though don't tell them I said that. But the forest is gathering in its own defense. And they tell me that we're getting closer. Before long we'll pick up the trail of your adversaries." 

Her face grows grim.  "They also say there are parts of the forest that are already lost to decay, like a festering limb that must be cut off. But not here, not yet. Here there is still time to heal." 
 
 Spoiler 

If you're curious, the germ theory of biology is not widespread and is a bit controversial in this world, but it's popular among druids, who recognize the signatures of life everywhere.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia's only half-listening, and slightly guilty for it. But she can't keep her mind from wandering over the past few days that have felt like months. Things are different without Shiny. Even if she and her friends may actually have more answers and more of a direction on where to go, without him everything feels aimless. She feels like she's drifting, floating untethered in limbo with no direction or idea on what to do next. There's only the here and now--the way she and Kurt nodded at each other as they executed the orcs simultaneously, giving them a quicker death than they would have otherwise gotten, the silence as they packed and accompanied Elyssa on where to go next, the strangeness of Rhenner and his family. But everything still feels muffled, as if she's going to need to fight her way back to even knowing where her feet are and where to look, much less where to start looking.

Heck, she can't even properly think straight.

They haven't said anything for a while, and Natalia feels the pressing need to fill the conversation (Lisk spoke to animals too, sometimes. But she put more motion into it). Something Elyssa said did pique her curiosity anyway, even if only a little.  "Why...does forest fight too? Thought Horde against us, not trees. Is it because fire, because...dragon?" 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia's only half-listening, and slightly guilty for it. But she can't keep her mind from wandering over the past few days that have felt like months. Things are different without Shiny. Even if she and her friends may actually have more answers and more of a direction on where to go, without him everything feels aimless. She feels like she's drifting, floating untethered in limbo with no direction or idea on what to do next. There's only the here and now--the way she and Kurt nodded at each other as they executed the orcs simultaneously, giving them a quicker death than they would have otherwise gotten, the silence as they packed and accompanied Elyssa on where to go next, the strangeness of Rhenner and his family. But everything still feels muffled, as if she's going to need to fight her way back to even knowing where her feet are and where to look, much less where to start looking.

Heck, she can't even properly think straight.

They haven't said anything for a while, and Natalia feels the pressing need to fill the conversation (Lisk spoke to animals too, sometimes. But she put more motion into it). Something Elyssa said did pique her curiosity anyway, even if only a little.  "Why...does forest fight too? Thought Horde against us, not trees. Is it because fire, because...dragon?"  
 

 "That's right,"  Ellyssa says grimly.  "There's no greater danger to the forest, save perhaps the plague of the undead. It's not just the dragons, either. The fire giants and the orc tribes come from a desert, and have no respect for these woods. They use fire as a tactic, setting smokescreens and razing abandoned territory. You saw it back in the village."  She shakes her head.  "If there were a true wildfire, the ruin would spread far beyond Woodhelm's borders. The exodus of its beasts would lay waste to many other territories, and the smoke would blot out a quarter of the continent for months." 

She tilts her head at Natalia's reaction to her speaking with the birds.  "Have you known a druid before?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "That's right,"  Ellyssa says grimly.  "There's no greater danger to the forest, save perhaps the plague of the undead. It's not just the dragons, either. The fire giants and the orc tribes come from a desert, and have no respect for these woods. They use fire as a tactic, setting smokescreens and razing abandoned territory. You saw it back in the village."  She shakes her head.  "If there were a true wildfire, the ruin would spread far beyond Woodhelm's borders. The exodus of its beasts would lay waste to many other territories, and the smoke would blot out a quarter of the continent for months."  
 

 "How is forest...fighting back? How long the fight...and do you...know why?" 

Forest fires happen, and Lisk had shown her the pinecones that burst open in heat, but the whole forest aflame at once? Natalia can see it in her head: miles and miles of greenery charred black, the sky blotted out by smoke and feeling birds, hungry deer eating crops and starving wolves preying on the roads. She shudders.


 She tilts her head at Natalia's reaction to her speaking with the birds.  "Have you known a druid before?"  


 "Yes, back...where born."  A bit of color tinges her cheeks.
Athedia
Mithril walked quietly, keeping an eye out for any signs of their horses.  She was also thinking about the druids words.  In the pause after Natalia's words, she finally spoke up.  "These small invaders, I can understand that with the prevalence of cleaning wounds.  Like smaller insects water will wash them away.  But there must still be ill humors or weakening of the spirit.  How else would magic like Rhenner's work, if not through repairing those?  We don't have a larger analogue that completely wipes out larger invaders, even though I think some research might be reaching close to those levels.  And if his magic could only repair the physical body, then why does he also retain the ability to cure disease with a touch?  In your theories what is the difference between a magically applied affliction and that caused by more mundane sources?  Also do you know how to find horses?"   Her barrage of questions did not seem attacking or defensive, merely curious.  It was as though she was attempting to catalog the information to examine at a later date.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril walked quietly, keeping an eye out for any signs of their horses.  She was also thinking about the druids words.  In the pause after Natalia's words, she finally spoke up.  "These small invaders, I can understand that with the prevalence of cleaning wounds.  Like smaller insects water will wash them away.  But there must still be ill humors or weakening of the spirit.  How else would magic like Rhenner's work, if not through repairing those? We don't have a larger analogue that completely wipes out larger invaders, even though I think some research might be reaching close to those levels.  And if his magic could only repair the physical body, then why does he also retain the ability to cure disease with a touch?"  
 

Ellyssa looks interested in Mithril's questions.  "Rhenner's magic can heal us, but it can also slay the undead. In much the same way, it can slay these invaders within our bodies. Though of course wounds and diseases can be caused by many things... when a sword slices off someone's head, it needs no help from any invaders." 

  " In your theories what is the difference between a magically applied affliction and that caused by more mundane sources?  

 "I won't pretend it doesn't puzzle me."  She scratches her chin.  "Are you familiar with a spell that  spreads disease through touch ? I am, though I do not enjoy channeling it. If the spell truly injected harmful life, one would think it would work through conjuration, and yet instead it belongs in the school of necromancy, the art of draining life force. Perhaps there is a difference, as you describe. It's most likely that these invaders are more analogous to the undead than to the living." 

She tilts her head.  "Do they study such things in the Institute? I've never spent much time associating with the guilds."  She glances down at her own Church guildmark like it's a curious growth on her hand.


  "Also do you know how to find horses?"   Her barrage of questions did not seem attacking or defensive, merely curious.  It was as though she was attempting to catalog the information to examine at a later date. 

She nods up towards the eagle flying above.  "Sentry is keeping an eye out for them, and I've asked some of the other birds to look as well. Hawks gossip like you wouldn't  believe , so if there are loose horses, we'll hear about it soon."  She rolls her eyes slightly during this last comment.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa looks interested in Mithril's questions.  "Rhenner's magic can heal us, but it can also slay the undead. In much the same way, it can slay these invaders within our bodies. Though of course wounds and diseases can be caused by many things... when a sword slices off someone's head, it needs no help from any invaders." 
 "I won't pretend it doesn't puzzle me."  She scratches her chin.  "Are you familiar with a spell that  spreads disease through touch ? I am, though I do not enjoy channeling it. If the spell truly injected harmful life, one would think it would work through conjuration, and yet instead it belongs in the school of necromancy, the art of draining life force. Perhaps there is a difference, as you describe. It's most likely that these invaders are more analogous to the undead than to the living."  
 

 "I wonder if spells to control the dead would work on these small creatures.  Rhenner, could you rebuke an illness?" 

 She tilts her head.  "Do they study such things in the Institute? I've never spent much time associating with the guilds."  She glances down at her own Church guildmark like it's a curious growth on her hand. 

 "I wouldn't know.  I have barely set foot in the Institute. Actually I have talked to far more Church guild members.  I just went with this mark because they respected Boccobs tenents." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I wonder if spells to control the dead would work on these small creatures.  Rhenner, could you rebuke an illness?"  
 

Rhenner's expression distorts just barely visibly when moving corpses is mentioned; he snorts at the question,  "Not that I'm aware of, that cure has a spell of its own." 

  "I wouldn't know.  I have barely set foot in the Institute. Actually I have talked to far more Church guild members.  I just went with this mark because they respected Boccobs tenents."  

The cleric makes no comment to this, and focuses instead on looking at the woods they pass through, both familiar and distant at the same time.
Admiral
  "I wouldn't know.  I have barely set foot in the Institute. Actually I have talked to far more Church guild members.  I just went with this mark because they respected Boccobs tenents."  

 "Interesting..."  the druid replies.  "I myself was never very comfortable in civilization. I have no problems with the guild, nor do they have problems with me, which is just the way I like it." 
 "While I follow no specific god, I've always admired Boccob,"  she adds.  "The notion that balance is more important than good or evil- this notion is essential in the natural world. Would those be the tenets of which you speak?" 
 "And how did you come to join the Church?"  she asks Kurt.

 
 Spoiler 

Giving Kurt/Cavelcade a chance to speak 🙂.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa looks interested in Mithril's questions.  "Rhenner's magic can heal us, but it can also slay the undead. In much the same way, it can slay these invaders within our bodies. Though of course wounds and diseases can be caused by many things... when a sword slices off someone's head, it needs no help from any invaders." 
 "I won't pretend it doesn't puzzle me."  She scratches her chin.  "Are you familiar with a spell that  spreads disease through touch ? I am, though I do not enjoy channeling it. If the spell truly injected harmful life, one would think it would work through conjuration, and yet instead it belongs in the school of necromancy, the art of draining life force. Perhaps there is a difference, as you describe. It's most likely that these invaders are more analogous to the undead than to the living."  
 

Natalia listens quietly to the discussion, somewhat awkward that she doesn't have much to contribute.  "What of poison, or undead...illness?" 

 She tilts her head.  "Do they study such things in the Institute? I've never spent much time associating with the guilds."  She glances down at her own Church guildmark like it's a curious growth on her hand. 

 "I joined Institute because...could make machines, learn more than magic. They..let me learn."  She looks at the back of her hand and smiles.  "Though...wish there fewer walls. Why you join church?" 

 She nods up towards the eagle flying above.  "Sentry is keeping an eye out for them, and I've asked some of the other birds to look as well. Hawks gossip like you wouldn't  believe , so if there are loose horses, we'll hear about it soon."  She rolls her eyes slightly during this last comment. 

 "Thanks."  With their vision, it really shouldn't take long.
Cavelcade
Kurt shifts his shoulders, coming out of his morose reverie. Daybreaker is across them, and they sag a little as if it weighs more than normal on the usually hearty dwarf. He looks down at his hand where the mark rests and tries to remember just why he chose it.  "The Gods tend to the world, but only through their worshipers. My God..."  He shakes his head after a pensive moment of silence.  "I believe in mercy. The Church seemed like they might as well."  He looks over at Rhennar, just for a moment before setting his eyes straight ahead again.  "Mercy is a fine goal." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Interesting..."  the druid replies.  "I myself was never very comfortable in civilization. I have no problems with the guild, nor do they have problems with me, which is just the way I like it." 
 "While I follow no specific god, I've always admired Boccob,"  she adds.  "The notion that balance is more important than good or evil- this notion is essential in the natural world. Would those be the tenets of which you speak?"  
 

 "I suppose that would depend on how you define those concepts",  Rhenner remarks when Mithril doesn't reply right away, a thin half-smile accompanying his words,  "Even within the Church, people don't seem to be able to agree on one set meaning, though they have been debating over the matter for years." 

  "And how did you come to join the Church?"  she asks Kurt.

 
 Spoiler 

Giving Kurt/Cavelcade a chance to speak 🙂.
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt shifts his shoulders, coming out of his morose reverie. Daybreaker is across them, and they sag a little as if it weighs more than normal on the usually hearty dwarf. He looks down at his hand where the mark rests and tries to remember just why he chose it.  "The Gods tend to the world, but only through their worshipers. My God..."  He shakes his head after a pensive moment of silence.  "I believe in mercy. The Church seemed like they might as well."  He looks over at Rhennar, just for a moment before setting his eyes straight ahead again.  "Mercy is a fine goal."  
 

Rhenner nods in agreement to this statement.  "Sadly there seems to be precious little of it in the world. Though the Church is certainly more merciful than the Firm or Syndicate. How it compares to the Institute, I can't say."  He shakes his head a little and adds sardonically,  "A few years ago I would have given a more certain answer." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "Interesting..."  the druid replies.  "I myself was never very comfortable in civilization. I have no problems with the guild, nor do they have problems with me, which is just the way I like it." 
 "While I follow no specific god, I've always admired Boccob,"  she adds.  "The notion that balance is more important than good or evil- this notion is essential in the natural world. Would those be the tenets of which you speak?"  
 

 "Balance...  I don't know about balance.  But the core to power is knowledge.  If we can determine the mechanisms behind the world then I guess that yes, it may be brought into balance."  She was quiet again, looking over at Rhenner and shaking her head.   "I wouldn't know.  Not much seems merciful these days." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "And sometimes, seems like...mercy now means less mercy later..."  Natalia muses, quietly.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Balance...  I don't know about balance.  But the core to power is knowledge.  If we can determine the mechanisms behind the world then I guess that yes, it may be brought into balance."  She was quiet again, looking over at Rhenner and shaking her head.   "I wouldn't know.  Not much seems merciful these days."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "And sometimes, seems like...mercy now means less mercy later..."  Natalia muses, quietly. 
 

 "That... still doesn't mean we shouldn't strive for it",  Rhenner says slowly,  "The world is a difficult place, with impossible choices sometimes, but I hope... that it doesn't always have to be this way." 
Athedia
The woods grew deeper, the dirt path narrowing as if the trees were attempting to reclaim it.  The woods had grown silent, the birdsong disappearing and even the sounds of insects dying off.  There remained a strange chirruping sound, interrupted by louder hawk like screeches, but no normal bird could make those sounds.
CWater
Rhenner stops.  "Something is wrong, the forest is never quiet like this. Do you know that sound?",  he asks Ellyssa.

 
 Spoiler 
Yay! IC update!😁

Uh, Listen check?
 (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 The woods grew deeper, the dirt path narrowing as if the trees were attempting to reclaim it.  The woods had grown silent, the birdsong disappearing and even the sounds of insects dying off.  There remained a strange chirruping sound, interrupted by louder hawk like screeches, but no normal bird could make those sounds. 
 

Natalia freezes solid, one hand on her bow as the other one readies a fist to cast her spell.  "Silent...hiding from hunter,"  she whispers.

 
 Spoiler: listen check 
 (d20+14)[ 29 ] 
 
Admiral
Ellyssa stops as well, tilting her head. A change in the tone of her home forest is like nails on a chalkboard to her.

 
 Spoiler 

About to start on Ellyssa's character sheet and spell list, but I know that like a good druid she put some ranks into Listen and maxed out Knowledge (Nature) (also gets a +2 bonus on the latter).

Listen:  (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
If it helps, Knowledge (Nature) as well:  (1d20+16)[ 22 ] 

(The +16 comes from +1 Int, +2 bonus, +4 first level, +9 other levels)
 
Cavelcade
 
 Spoiler 

[roll]1d20[/roll] listen
 
Cavelcade
Kurt scratches his head, looking around a bit and taking Daybreaker in his hand in response to his friends' words - nothing sounds particularly odd to him.

 
 Spoiler 

Forgot how to format the rolls for a moment.

 (1d20)[ 13 ]  listen
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Coffee 
The sounds are getting closer.
 

 
 Spoiler: Admiral 
Ellyssa knew that the sounds she heard were something that belonged a group of animal that belonged much much deeper in the forests, in the areas that even she didn't enter.  She wasn't sure which of these creatures they were yet, but knew she would recognize them when she saw them.  The sounds were getting closer.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Closer. Think we hunted,"  Natalia whispers. One of the many, many things around that wants her and her friends dead...

 
 Spoiler: Questions on sound 
Can Natalia tell about how far off they are, or what direction (also running or flying?) or any ideas on numbers?
 
Admiral
The expression on Ellyssa's face is a mixture of alarm and curiosity.  "I recognize the sound of those creatures, but I'm not sure from where..." 

She glances upward and gestures towards Sentry to swoop down closer, so that the hawk might get a closer look at the enemies- or join the fight if necessary.

 
 Spoiler 

Sentry is her hawk animal companion. Adding him to character sheet now.
 
Athedia
The hawk swoops closer, circling the region the sounds were coming from. Nothing rises from the trees, nothing even seems to notice him, although he is the only bird in sight between the treetops.

As he circles a loud whistle echoes through the tree's managing to carry despite the thick foliage.  Then silence.  After some time birdsong returns to the forest.
CWater
 "Could it be so nice that this means whatever made that noise has gone away?",  Rhenner asks, directing the question to no one in particular, and looks around nervously.
Admiral
 "Perhaps..."  Ellyssa replies, though she does not look entirely reassured. She nods as she comes to a decision, and speaks a spell.

 "&lt;Hawk&gt;Sentry, what have you seen?&lt;/Hawk&gt;"  she calls into the air in a short series of calls.

 
 Spoiler 

Casting  Speak with animals ; second time of the day. I've noted it on my sheet.
 
Athedia
Sentry responds in a series of calls back that carry through the air.

 
 Spoiler: Admiral 
"Not-Bird Birds! Not-Bird Birds run you.  Many Not-Bird Birds.  Big Not-Bird Birds.  Small Not-Bird Birds. Not-Bird Birds run sound.  Not-Bird Birds gone.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Could it be so nice that this means whatever made that noise has gone away?",  Rhenner asks, directing the question to no one in particular, and looks around nervously. 
 

 "We...never that lucky,"  Natalia mutters.
Admiral
Ellyssa tilts her head as she hears Sentry's response.  "He doesn't know what they were, but there were many of them,"  she tells the party,  "and they're gone now. I say we keep moving forward, and keep a sharp lookout." 

As an aside, she turns to Mithril and asks,  "Do you have a spell that would let us communicate with each other without words? In battle, I sometimes take on a shape that makes speech impossible." 
Cavelcade
Kurt grins a bit at that, relaxing his grip on the hilt of his blade as the information is relayed.  "Being able to talk without talking? That would be helpful in battle in more ways than one." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa tilts her head as she hears Sentry's response.  "He doesn't know what they were, but there were many of them,"  she tells the party,  "and they're gone now. I say we keep moving forward, and keep a sharp lookout." 

As an aside, she turns to Mithril and asks,  "Do you have a spell that would let us communicate with each other without words? In battle, I sometimes take on a shape that makes speech impossible."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt grins a bit at that, relaxing his grip on the hilt of his blade as the information is relayed.  "Being able to talk without talking? That would be helpful in battle in more ways than one."  
 

Mithril looked a little surprised.   "I do have a spell like that.  It is not prepared today, I... I haven't used it in some time now."  She looked down at the ring on her hand and then over at Natalia.   "I am unsure if it will work anymore." 
 
 Spoiler: Admiral 
Question about the rings, would they prevent telepathic link?
 


The sky above the party was starting to grow darker, evening settling down upon the forest.
CWater
Rhenner looks up.  "You can cast that spell? ..I guess I shouldn't be surprised. Yes, it can be useful, in battle and in planning I remember..."  His voice drifts away and he stops to stare at the darkening forest.

 "Should we make camp soon, before it gets too dark? Or can you guide is even in a dark forest?",  the first question is directed at the party in general, the latter at Ellyssa.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa tilts her head as she hears Sentry's response.  "He doesn't know what they were, but there were many of them,"  she tells the party,  "and they're gone now. I say we keep moving forward, and keep a sharp lookout." 

As an aside, she turns to Mithril and asks,  "Do you have a spell that would let us communicate with each other without words? In battle, I sometimes take on a shape that makes speech impossible."  
 

Natalia grins, even despite the danger, and enthusiastically whispers,  "Yes! Mithril has...mind speech spell. Can hear all clear with it." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril looked a little surprised.   "I do have a spell like that.  It is not prepared today, I... I haven't used it in some time now."  She looked down at the ring on her hand and then over at Natalia.   "I am unsure if it will work anymore." 
 
 Spoiler: Admiral 
Question about the rings, would they prevent telepathic link?
 


The sky above the party was starting to grow darker, evening settling down upon the forest. 
 

The smile fades just as quickly. Natalia looks down at her ring too, runs the back of the adjacent finger over it. For a moment she debates taking it off, but...no. It's not worth it. No matter how much she wants to, it's not worth it. All she can do is hope that,  "Maybe only blocks foe? Do you...want try?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia grins, even despite the danger, and enthusiastically whispers,  "Yes! Mithril has...mind speech spell. Can hear all clear with it." 

The smile fades just as quickly. Natalia looks down at her ring too, runs the back of the adjacent finger over it. For a moment she debates taking it off, but...no. It's not worth it. No matter how much she wants to, it's not worth it. All she can do is hope that,  "Maybe only blocks foe? Do you...want try?"  
 

 "It would probably be good to find out if it works before we rely on it. But seems it will have to wait at least until tomorrow. Do we plan to walk much longer still today? It might not make a difference if the source has gone away, but the thought of making camp right where we heard the strange noise makes me a little uneasy." 
Athedia
 "I will defer to Ellyssa. She knows the ways of forests much better than I do." 
 
 Spoiler: Translation 
Do what you wish
 
Admiral
Ellyssa looks behind her nervously, but agrees.  "There's no part of the forest that's truly safe, and that is especially true at night," she notes. "I also wouldn't mind the morning's replenishment of my spells." 
 "Sentry and I will take first watch?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Yep, let's make camp.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa looks behind her nervously, but agrees.  "There's no part of the forest that's truly safe, and that is especially true at night," she notes. "I also wouldn't mind the morning's replenishment of my spells." 
 "Sentry and I will take first watch?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Yep, let's make camp.
 
 
 

Rhenner nods, not seeing any reason to argue.  "I'll take the second. I doubt I'll get much sleep in any case." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I...dawn watch then. Ears are sharp, but...no darksight." 
Admiral
Ellyssa nods, and as the party makes camp she wanders off to the edge, looking a bit uncomfortable. She looks down at her palms, then shivers as she looks out at the forest.

 
 Spoiler 

Ellyssa takes first watch, Sentry keeping an eye out too.

In the meantime people can ask her what's up if they want.
 
CWater
Rhenner notices Ellyssa's reaction and after a moment of consideration he walks closer.  "Is something wrong?"  The forest made him nervous too, and that fact was disturbing in itself too. It didn't seem like forest of his old memories, too many strange or simply bad things were going on here of late.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa nods, and as the party makes camp she wanders off to the edge, looking a bit uncomfortable. She looks down at her palms, then shivers as she looks out at the forest.

 
 Spoiler 

Ellyssa takes first watch, Sentry keeping an eye out too.

In the meantime people can ask her what's up if they want.
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner notices Ellyssa's reaction and after a moment of consideration he walks closer.  "Is something wrong?"  The forest made him nervous too, and that fact was disturbing in itself too. It didn't seem like forest of his old memories, too many strange or simply bad things were going on here of late. 
 

Natalia can't sleep, at least not yet. Every odd sound makes her stiffen and reach for her blades or bow. From the looks of things Rhenner and Ellyssa aren't able to rest either. She props herself up on her elbows with a worried expression.  "What else wrong?"  she asks.
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner notices Ellyssa's reaction and after a moment of consideration he walks closer.  "Is something wrong?"  The forest made him nervous too, and that fact was disturbing in itself too. It didn't seem like forest of his old memories, too many strange or simply bad things were going on here of late. 
 

Ellyssa looks down uncomfortably at herself.  "Habit, I suppose... I haven't travelled with companions in a while, and if I'm to stand guard I'll need to be able to communicate danger to you. But that means this is the first time in years- since I left the town, I suppose- that I've been on two legs after dusk." 

The druid looks up at the sun setting over the treetops.  "The forest at night is a dangerous place, and one where this form isn't entirely welcome. Elves have inhabited these lands for millenia, but our bodies are still so ill equipped. So each night I'd pick a cave to sleep in, or a tree to perch on, and a shape that made me predator rather than prey." 

She shakes her head.  "It's a foolish complaint, I know I can defend myself. But I've never felt quite like myself at night." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa looks down uncomfortably at herself.  "Habit, I suppose... I haven't travelled with companions in a while, and if I'm to stand guard I'll need to be able to communicate danger to you. But that means this is the first time in years- since I left the town, I suppose- that I've been on two legs after dusk." 

The druid looks up at the sun setting over the treetops.  "The forest at night is a dangerous place, and one where this form isn't entirely welcome. Elves have inhabited these lands for millenia, but our bodies are still so ill equipped. So each night I'd pick a cave to sleep in, or a tree to perch on, and a shape that made me predator rather than prey." 

She shakes her head.  "It's a foolish complaint, I know I can defend myself. But I've never felt quite like myself at night."  
 

Natalia looks out at the night sky, the stars speckled over a canopy of pitch-black trees that blend with sky and seem to  simultaneously stretch out forever and close in. She remembers the wolves, months and continents ago, and shudders.

 "What if...warn with growl or howl?"  she asks, suddenly much quieter as if not to disturb whatever may be prowling in the darkness.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia looks out at the night sky, the stars speckled over a canopy of pitch-black trees that blend with sky and seem to  simultaneously stretch out forever and close in. She remembers the wolves, months and continents ago, and shudders.

 "What if...warn with growl or howl?"  she asks, suddenly much quieter as if not to disturb whatever may be prowling in the darkness. 
 

 "Yes, I would think that would wake us as good as normal shout. Better even",  Rhenner agrees,  "And as you said, Ellyssa, animals have sharper senses." 
Admiral
Ellyssa smiles at her new friends' suggestions, with an expression of relief.  "I suppose we could try,"  she replies, then she steps out to the edge of the camp and turns away from the party.  "Sleep well." 

Her arms stretch to her sides and keep stretching, then burst into a flurry of feathers. The druid's form smoothly transforms, changing in shape but hardly in size. Moments later she's been replaced by a large bird of prey, the patterns along the wings vaguely resembling Ellyssa's leather armor.

The dire hawk flaps her wings and launches into the air, not quite expanding to her full width until she's past the treeline. She joins Sentry in a wide arc through the air, and it is clear the two are well accustomed to flying together.

 
 Spoiler 

While in hawk form, Ellyssa makes small talk with Sentry and reminds him to be on the lookout for enemies like the ones he'd seen earlier.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa smiles at her new friends' suggestions, with an expression of relief.  "I suppose we could try,"  she replies, then she steps out to the edge of the camp and turns away from the party.  "Sleep well." 

Her arms stretch to her sides and keep stretching, then burst into a flurry of feathers. The druid's form smoothly transforms, changing in shape but hardly in size. Moments later she's been replaced by a large bird of prey, the patterns along the wings vaguely resembling Ellyssa's leather armor.

The dire hawk flaps her wings and launches into the air, not quite expanding to her full width until she's past the treeline. She joins Sentry in a wide arc through the air, and it is clear the two are well accustomed to flying together.

 
 Spoiler 

While in hawk form, Ellyssa makes small talk with Sentry and reminds him to be on the lookout for enemies like the ones he'd seen earlier.
 
 
 

Natalia watches Ellyssa fly off into the distance with a small smile on her face. She curls up back in her sleeping bag and asks Rhenner, a bit hazily,  "You ok?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia watches Ellyssa fly off into the distance with a small smile on her face. She curls up back in her sleeping bag and asks Rhenner, a bit hazily,  "You ok?"  
 

 "Yes, I'm fine",  Rhenner replies somewhat absent-mindedly and sits down with his back against the tree trunk.  "It's been a long day",  he says, understating just a little,  "I hope the exhaustion helps me sleep."  It feels odd resting with armour on, but the mithral is barely noticeable, and the forest is dangerous, he reminds himself.
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Apologies 
Getting settled over here took longer than I thought.  Not an excuse.  Now let's get going.
 


Ellyssa's watch went quietly, very quietly.  About an hour after the rest of the group had fallen asleep a large burst of birds came out of the trees back where the party had come from.  After that the forest was still.

 
 Spoiler: Rhenner 
Can I have a spot check?
 
Admiral
As her watch ends, Ellyssa swoops low over Rhenner's sleeping form, and brushes her wing against the cleric gently to wake him. As soon as she sees he is awake she takes flight again.

She finds a sturdy tree branch within about fifty feet from the party, perches on it, and within minutes is asleep.
Cavelcade
Kurt spends some time alone, sitting with Daybreaker on his lap as he oils it and sharpens it - a pointless endeavour with that blade, as he's never seen a sign of decay on the blade. Even when he should be asleep, he tosses and turns, some worry clouding his mind. Eventually, the exertions of the day catch up to him until he falls into a quiet dream, seemingly untroubled.
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: DM rolls 
S1:
Hide:  (1d20+11)[ 30 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
S2:
Hide:  (1d20+11)[ 12 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 
S3:
Hide:  (1d20+11)[ 16 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 
S4:
Hide:  (1d20+11)[ 19 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
S5:
Hide:  (1d20+11)[ 14 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+7)[ 26 ] 
S6:
Hide:  (1d20+11)[ 17 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+7)[ 26 ] 
 
Athedia
Rhenner's shift is dark and quiet but through the shadows his eyes spot a few small shapes, no more than a foot or two in height and bipedal, approaching his sleeping companions.  He hear a few soft chirrups, but the sounds fit the small size of whatever these creatures were.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Exhaustion...drags down. Sometimes only anchor,"  Natalia replies with a yawn of her own. Exhaustion is dragging ghee into sleep herself, and soon she drifts off nestled at the base of a tree. As she sleeps she tightly curls her fingers around her bow while the other hand brushes the hilt of her shortsword.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Rhenner's shift is dark and quiet but through the shadows his eyes spot a few small shapes, no more than a foot or two in height and bipedal, approaching his sleeping companions.  He hear a few soft chirrups, but the sounds fit the small size of whatever these creatures were. 
 

Rhenner had barely been sleeping even before his shift, so getting up and staying awake wasn't a problem. It was more difficult to stay sharp and alert however, and not to let his mind wander or grow dull. When the creatures first emerged, he simply stared at them for a moment, not comprehending if they were real or just a wandering dream. But as they crept closer, experience dragged him out of the stupor and he jumped up to raise the alarm.

 
 Spoiler: Athedia 
When determining how far Rhenner can spot these, remember that half-elves have low light vision. (I often forget.)
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia was already half-awake, roused not by a nightmare for once but instead thirst and a need to pee. She spends a few minutes trying to ignore it and fully slip back into slumber when she hears a rustling nearby. Instantly she's fully awake, adrenaline rushing through her as she springs to her feet and finds herself face-to-face with small reptilian creatures that have somehow snuck up on them. Natalia is still operating entirely on reflex and adrenaline as she grabs her blades and slashes into the creatures again and again, so startled and on edge that the thought that these things might not be hostile doesn't even occur to her. And when it starts to trickle in she's already stepped back to Rhenner, kicking Kurt and screaming,  "Up! Up! Ambush!" 
 
 Spoiler: actions 

Swift action: use the magic boots to stand up.
Full round action: sneak attack! Attacking the one right in front of her.
Attack 1:  (d20+15)[ 31 ] 
Crit:  (d20+15)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 9 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 21 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 6 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+15)[ 29 ] 
Crit:  (d20+15)[ 31 ] 
Damage:  (d4+5)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 20 ] 
Crit damage:  (d4+5)[ 9 ] 

Attack 3:  (d20+10)[ 23 ] 
Crit:  (d20+10)[ 29 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 7 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 14 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 11 ] 

Attack 4:  (d20+10)[ 18 ] 
Crit:  (d20+10)[ 30 ] 
Damage:  (d4+5)[ 9 ]  plus sneak attack:  (6d6)[ 23 ] 
Crit damage:  (d4+5)[ 9 ] 

Free action: 5 foot step back next to Rhenner, immediately to his right.
Free action: Scream
Free action: Kick Kurt awake (sorry Kurt. You're just next to her).

Also I need to change Natalia's maneuvers later. Forgot to do that.
 
Admiral
Ellyssa wakes suddenly, her sharp eyes spotting the party in danger below. With a wave of her talons and a few caws, she summons creatures of nature to aid them, before taking flight off the branch.

 
 Spoiler 

Give up Freedom of Movement for a Summon Nature's Ally 4 , summoning  (1d3)[ 2 ]  Lions. I'll post again for their attack and place on the map.

She then takes flight and hovers a little more than sixty feet above the party.
 
Admiral
The two lions snarl, slash, and snap their jaws at the two creatures.

 
 Spoiler 

Attacking left one:

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 21 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 9 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 7 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 15 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 8 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 9 ]  Crit:  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 
If bite succeeds, grapple attempt:  (1d20+12)[ 25 ] 

Attacking right one:

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 14 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 13 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 7 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 10 ]  Crit:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
If bite succeeds, grapple attempt:  (1d20+12)[ 29 ] 

Since Ellyssa can spot them now, may she make a Knowledge (Nature) check? If so,  (1d20+15)[ 30 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Admiral 
The disturbances that had happened during travel the previous day come into glaring context.  Elyssa knows of these creatures, long rumored to be proto-dragons or early forms of bird.  Sources vary on what exactly was their origin, but it is known that they are ancient creatures and fierce.

Dinosaurs.

These were one of the smaller varieties she had heard of,  swindlespitters . Every species had it's thieves, and this was the dinosaur version.  They relied on their speed to keep them safe as well as the ability to shoot concentrated acid when threatened.   They had probably been the source of the higher pitched sounds the previous day.

But as Ellyssa processed this, she remembered one more piece of information.  Swindlespitters traveled in small families on the outskirts of larger dinosaur herds.  Seeing one of them meant something larger was nearby.

Note: You got high enough to just see the entry
 
CWater
Rhenner tightens his grip on his shield and casts a simple cantrip to guide his hand in battle.  "I have few spells left at this hour." 
 
 Spoiler 
Casting Guidance.
 
Athedia
Natalia's blades slashed as the lions attacked the creatures.  The reptiles moved quickly, Natalia's blades only nicking them, but her skill was enough that those nicks still bled out fast, the creatures falling to the ground and being swiftly torn apart by the lions.

But even as she was kicking Kurt's head, more small darting heads poked out of the trees and dashed toward the group.  Two paused a good distance from the party and spat a green noxious fluid one spray toward Natalia and Rhenner, the other toward one of the lions.  The third of the creatures was poking around where Mithril lay.  The wizard was looking a little confused as she attempted to wake up.

 
 Spoiler: Admiral (for Lion), Coffee, CWater 
Could I have a fort save please for Natalia, the rightmost lion and Rhenner?
 

 
 Spoiler: DM only 
Disarm attempt (rolling vs AC 14) [roll]1d20+7[roll]
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: DM Only 
Redoing roll from previous post: Disarm vs AC 14  (1d20+7)[ 25 ] 
 


As the creature stood up, it was quickly apparent what it clasped in its claws, Mithril's spellbook which she had been reviewing before she slept.
CoffeeIncluded
Fort save:  (d20+6)[ 8 ] 
Cavelcade
Kurt rolls out of his blanket and upright quickly, grabbing Daybreaker as he does so, looking around urgently to assess the situation.  "Natalia, what's going on? Lions or lizards or both?  He's paralyzed by indecision for a few moments, trying to get himself up to date before he makes any rash decisions.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt rolls out of his blanket and upright quickly, grabbing Daybreaker as he does so, looking around urgently to assess the situation.  "Natalia, what's going on? Lions or lizards or both?  He's paralyzed by indecision for a few moments, trying to get himself up to date before he makes any rash decisions. 
 

 "Walking, standing lizards!"  Natalia shouts as more of them poke up their heads and one of them reaches into mithrils bag.  "Mithril! SpellBook--!" 

And then one of the creatures spits something into her face. There's a sudden, horrific pain, and then the world goes dark.

 AAAAGGGHHH!!!"  Natalia screams, clawing at her face, her eyes screwed shut in agony.  "EYES! BLIND!"  
Admiral
 
 Spoiler 

Lion Fort save:  (1d20+6)[ 25 ] 
 
CWater
The acid stings, but Rhenner manages to shield his eyes from the splash.


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Walking, standing lizards!"  Natalia shouts as more of them poke up their heads and one of them reaches into mithrils bag.  "Mithril! SpellBook--!" 

And then one of the creatures spits something into her face. There's a sudden, horrific pain, and then the world goes dark.

 AAAAGGGHHH!!!"  Natalia screams, clawing at her face, her eyes screwed shut in agony.  "EYES! BLIND!"   
 

 "Be careful, I'll look at it in a moment",  Rhenner says, trying to sound calming, which might not be very convincing in the circumstances. He circles around the camp to get behind the thieving lizard, summoning a bit of extra speed from the new belt, and raises his morningstar to strike.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Swift action: Use 1 charge from Belt of Battle to gain an extra move action.
Extra move action: Move L7-M7-N8 to O9 (trying not to step on Mithril), this triggers an AoO from the S in N9 (I assume that is the creature holding the spellbook). Rhenner's AC against this attack is 26.
Full-round action: Full attack S in N9.

Attack1:  (1d20+12)[ 29 ]  (Guidance included, flank included)
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 4 ] 

Attack2:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ]  (flank included)
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 10 ] 
 

 "It's trying to take Mithril's spellbook!",  he shouts to Kurt.
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Oh! Since no other rolls have been made yet, can I still assign Dodge against the one that gets the AoO? If so, then Rhenner has AC 27 against that one.
 
Athedia
Rhenner smashed down on the creatures head, the morningstar severely damaging it, then knocking it dead.  It feel over on Mithril, the blood pooling.  Rhenner didn't even notice the attempt at a counter as the claws simply couldn't touch him.

The other two smaller creatures tilted their heads and run, their theft unsuccessful.  The other reason for their flight became very clear as from the woods emerged 3 long tailed, taloned  creatures .  Followed by a much MUCH larger version, so large it barely fits between the trees.

 
 Spoiler: DM Notes 
English translation Swindlespitters use withdraw action
Deinonychus x3 show up
Megaraptor shows up
 


Mithril fully woke up as the morningstar smashed down in front of her face.  All told she looked a little surprised, though grateful.  Grabbing her spellbook out of the dead creatures claws she stood up hurriedly casting one of her remaining spells.  The party felt themselves become lighter and faster.   "Thanks Rhenner." 
 
 Spoiler: K(Nature) and Party is Hasted 
 K(Nature)  (1d20+20)[ 39 ] 
 Haste 
 

 Kurt and Rhenner are up, map updated.  The acid spitters withdrew 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Rhenner smashed down on the creatures head, the morningstar severely damaging it, then knocking it dead.  It feel over on Mithril, the blood pooling.  Rhenner didn't even notice the attempt at a counter as the claws simply couldn't touch him.

The other two smaller creatures tilted their heads and run, their theft unsuccessful.  The other reason for their flight became very clear as from the woods emerged 3 long tailed, taloned  creatures .  Followed by a much MUCH larger version, so large it barely fits between the trees.

 
 Spoiler: DM Notes 
English translation Swindlespitters use withdraw action
Deinonychus x3 show up
Megaraptor shows up
 


Mithril fully woke up as the morningstar smashed down in front of her face.  All told she looked a little surprised, though grateful.  Grabbing her spellbook out of the dead creatures claws she stood up hurriedly casting one of her remaining spells.  The party felt themselves become lighter and faster.   "Thanks Rhenner."  
 

 "Don't mention it. But keep a better hold on your spellbook",  the cleric replies before he dashes away, circling around trees and back to Natalia.

He puts a hand on the rogue's shoulder.  "I'm sorry I can't cure the blindness right now",  he says hurriedly,  "I promise I will later if it's bad. But there's enemies approaching now, they're pretty big, think you can hit them? Hold on",  he retrieves a scroll from his bag, two shiny metal rings hang from it. He gives one to Natalia.  "Put that on, it'll grant some protection."  If Natalia does so, he casts the spell from the scroll.

To himself Rhenner thinks,   I  hate  this spell. Swore I'd never cast it again..  
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move action to K8, if he provokes an AoO from the closer L, then the AC is 28 (Dodge included).
Casting  Shield Other  from scroll.

Btw, what is M? Does it look the same as the others?
 
Cavelcade
Kurt looks around, taking in what's going on with the added info. He spares a glance for Natalia at her cry, parsing her words he winces.  "I'm sure the cleric can sort her out...for now..."  Kurt takes a breath, feeling his muscles spark to life with the help of Mithril's spell. Hand wrapped around  Daybreaker's hilt he rushes forward, to the largest of the creatures, eyes widening a little as he realises just how big it is.

 
 Spoiler 

Kurt is going to move - not charge - to attack the largest one. He'll take an attack of opportunity - he's not wearing armour so his ac is gonna be damn low.
Maneuvers that become available from his readied categories:

 (1d5)[ 4 ]  Leading the attack
 (1d4)[ 2 ]  Stone Bones
 (1d3)[ 1 ]  Divine surge

Power attack for -5/+10
 (1d20+10)[ 21 ]  Attack
 (1d20+10)[ 11 ]  Crit

 (2d6+17)[ 25 ]  +  (2d6)[ 4 ]  if they're evil.
 (2d6+17)[ 26 ]  Crit
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: CWater 
M looks like a Large version of the D creatures
 


As Kurt moved forward the smaller of the creatures swiped forward with its talons, balanced on its hind legs through long sweeps of its tail.

 
 Spoiler: Wrong stats rerolled below 
Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 13 ] 
 


But Daybreaker blade still lands true, scoring along the creatures side in a puff of feathers and blood.

 Elyssa and Natasha are up 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Actual Aoo D vs Kurt 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 20 ] 
Damage: [roll]1d8+4
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Don't mention it. But keep a better hold on your spellbook",  the cleric replies before he dashes away, circling around trees and back to Natalia.

He puts a hand on the rogue's shoulder.  "I'm sorry I can't cure the blindness right now",  he says hurriedly,  "I promise I will later if it's bad. But there's enemies approaching now, they're pretty big, think you can hit them? Hold on",  he retrieves a scroll from his bag, two shiny metal rings hang from it. He gives one to Natalia.  "Put that on, it'll grant some protection."  If Natalia does so, he casts the spell from the scroll.

To himself Rhenner thinks,   I  hate  this spell. Swore I'd never cast it again..  
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move action to K8, if he provokes an AoO from the closer L, then the AC is 28 (Dodge included).
Casting  Shield Other  from scroll.

Btw, what is M? Does it look the same as the others?
 
 
 

 "I try!"  Natalia cries out, her eyes still squeezed shut from the searing pain that covers her entire face. But she can still feel the metal band that Rhenner helps slide onto her right hand and her blood runs cold. Wasn't this the spell...with Kurt and Miriam...?

 "Rhenner, didn't need this..."  She shakes her head.  "I try, keep you safe!"  she says as she tries to listen for the sounds of battle.

 
 Spoiler: Listen check 
As a swift action, so -5:  (d20+9)[ 15 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia runs forward screaming and tries to attack one of the beasts that she hears approaching Mithril.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Wolf Fang Strike so at least I attack twice.

Attack 1:  (d20+13)[ 29 ] 
Crit:  (d20+13)[ 27 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 10 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 10 ] 
miss on 1:  (d2)[ 1 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+13)[ 22 ] 
Crit:  (d20+13)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (d4+5)[ 9 ] 
Crit damage:  (d4+5)[ 7 ] 
miss on 1:  (d2)[ 1 ] 
 
Admiral
Elyssa's eyes widened as she saw the larger dinosaur appear from the trees. The lions she'd summoned from the forest charge towards the two smaller ones.

 
 Spoiler 

I can't actually remember the rules for how much control you have over summoned creatures: I'd like them to attack the two smaller dinosaurs.

Lions have a +7 to balance so they could autopass the Balance check to charge. However I don't know if they could charge through the trees. If not please only pay attention to the first attack of each.

L1:

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 20 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 9 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ]  Crit:  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
If succeed on bite, grapple check:  (1d20+12)[ 16 ] 

L2:

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 15 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 9 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 7 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 8 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 9 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 4 ]  Crit:  (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 
If succeed on bite, grapple check:  (1d20+12)[ 24 ] 

Fire damage to L2 from running through fire:  (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 


Perhaps, she reflects, she could take one down quickly- and do so without even wounding the creature. She swoops above the largest of the dinosaurs, and casts a single spell on it, while mentally visualizing a much smaller version.

 
 Spoiler 

Baleful polymorph into a lizard! Which now that I think of it is exactly what happened  in this comic .

DC Fortitude 20 to save.
 
Athedia
Natalia ran forward swinging wildly at nothing.  Meanwhile the lions charged forward, the ones claws tearing into the dinosaur in front of it, leaving bloody feathers lodged between its feathers.  The other lion failed to claw the dinosaur but its strong jaws did a fair resemblance of the damage the other had caused.

The large dinosaur roared as Elyssa's spell hit it.  With a shake, the spell failed to take hold, the creature staying in its shape.  But it somehow managed to look much, much more angry.

 
 Spoiler: Fort Save 
DC 20 vs  (1d20+10)[ 21 ] 
 
Athedia
The large dinosaur lunged forward, attempting to rend the dwarf in front of him.

 
 Spoiler: Full Attack VS Kurt 

Talons:  (1d20+10)[ 30 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+10)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 9 ] 

Foreclaw 1:  (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 3 ] 

Foreclaw 2:  (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 4 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
 


The smaller dinosaurs attempted to tear apart the lions attacking them, intent on the meat the frames provided.  The only dinosaur that hadn't been attacked joined in on the fight against the lion nearest it.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks on Lion 1 
Talons +7 melee (1d8+4) and 2 foreclaws +2 melee (1d3+2) and bite +2 melee (2d4+2)

Deinonychus 3:

Talons:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 11 ] 

Foreclaw 1:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 

Foreclaw 2:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 3 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+2)[ 6 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Attacks on Lion 2 
Deinonychus 1:

Talons:  (1d20+7)[ 23 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 5 ] 

Foreclaw 1:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 3 ] 

Foreclaw 2:  (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 3 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+2)[ 5 ] 

Deinonychus 2 attacks Lion 2,  Lion 2 gets an AoO I believe since it is a large creature 

Talons:  (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 6 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Crit vs Lion 2 
Extra damage from crit:  (1d8+4)[ 7 ] 
 

 Party is up 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "I try!"  Natalia cries out, her eyes still squeezed shut from the searing pain that covers her entire face. But she can still feel the metal band that Rhenner helps slide onto her right hand and her blood runs cold. Wasn't this the spell...with Kurt and Miriam...?

 "Rhenner, didn't need this..."  She shakes her head.  "I try, keep you safe!"  she says as she tries to listen for the sounds of battle.

 
 Spoiler: Listen check 
As a swift action, so -5:  (1d20+12)[ 26 ] 
 
 
 

 "Oh trust me I most sincerely hope you won't need it",  Rhenner replies dryly, before dashing off. Using the belt again for some extra speed he ran towards the largest lizard creature, circling around to get behind it, then lifted his morning star to strike.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
 Swift action:  Activating Belt of Battle for an extra move action.
 No action:  Dodge against M.
 (Extra) move action:  Move to J16 (takes only 1 move action thanks to Haste). If M has reach then it gets an AoO, against AC 28.
 Full attack at M:  (flank and haste included)

Attack1:  (1d20+12)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 10 ] 

Attack2:  (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 10 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The cacophony of battle with nothing to see and link the roars and sounds of metal and talons and spells to is disorienting and terrifying. But she can't run, even if she's useless and her face is nothing but searing white pain. She takes her racing heart and shifts it into a more primal feeling as she attempts to leap towards the sounds of the closest fight.
 
 Spoiler: Sudden Leap 

Sudden leap as a swift action jump check (results determine what she does next):  (d20+12)[ 13 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Blinded, Natalia's leap falls short and she stumbles, catching herself by flailing out her hands and just managing to grab roughened bark that feels orange as it rubs against her palm. She pulls herself up and runs forward, slashing out wildly as she hears the sounds of battle right before her face.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 

Attack:  (d20+11)[ 20 ] 
Crit:  (d20+11)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 9 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 9 ] 
Miss on 1:  (d2)[ 1 ] 
 
Admiral
Ellyssa's summoned lions attack the smaller dinosaurs once again.

 
 Spoiler 

L1:
Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 15 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 8 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 9 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 7 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ]  Crit:  (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 
If bite succeeds, grapple attempt:  (1d20+12)[ 19 ] 

L2:
Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 27 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 9 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 9 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 8 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ]  Crit:  (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 
If bite succeeds, grapple attempt:  (1d20+12)[ 21 ] 
 


The druid frowned as the giant beast shook off her spell-   "I suppose I'll need to hurt you after all,"   she thinks to herself.

She twists her talons, calling up a new threat from the forest. Thorns burst forth from the grass into a giant, lethal hedge maze sprawling across the battle

 
 Spoiler 

Region of Wall of Thorns is shown on map.

Each of the enemies takes damage equal to 25 minus their AC (not counting their Dexterity bonuses), and will need to do a full-round Str check to escape.

Based on my reading of the Wall of Thorns rules it seems entirely plausible that Ellyssa can create a wall in a weird shape, and that it can take up the 38 spaces it does on the map (up to 40 squares in fact, 10 2x2 cubes). If I am incorrect please tell me and I will reshape it.

I don't know whether a dinosaur trapped in a wall can attack someone standing next to it- that is entirely at Athedia's discretion.

Ellyssa is trying to wound each of the creatures and also make it a bit tough for the rightmost dinosaur to rejoin the battle (it and the lion can mess with each other).
 
Cavelcade
Kurt takes a half step back as the earth before him erupts with cruel thorns, holding Daybreaker up to ward off any attacks. He grins as he sees what happened, stepping in close as he dares as he moves his blade in graceful cuts.

 
 Spoiler 

Full attack! Power attack for -7/+14 - Kurt is flanking with Rhennar I think.

Hasted as well, I believe.

 (1d20+12)[ 25 ]  Attack
 (2d6+21)[ 31 ]  Damage

 (1d20+12)[ 28 ]  Attack
 (2d6+21)[ 30 ]  Damage

 (1d20+7)[ 16 ]  Attack
 (2d6+7)[ 12 ]  Damage - this should have been +21 as well!

Not sure which of these will hit.
 
Athedia
 Can I have Spot and Listen Checks please 

 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Oh trust me I most sincerely hope you won't need it",  Rhenner replies dryly, before dashing off. Using the belt again for some extra speed he ran towards the largest lizard creature, circling around to get behind it, then lifted his morning star to strike.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
 Swift action:  Activating Belt of Battle for an extra move action.
 No action:  Dodge against M.
 (Extra) move action:  Move to J16 (takes only 1 move action thanks to Haste). If M has reach then it gets an AoO, against AC 28.
 Full attack at M:  (flank and haste included)

Attack1:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+7)[ 11 ] 

Attack2:  (1d8+4)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa's summoned lions attack the smaller dinosaurs once again.

 
 Spoiler 

L1:
Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 5 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ]  Crit:  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 

Bite:  (1d3+2)[ 4 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ]  Crit:  (2d4+2)[ 7 ] 
If bite succeeds, grapple attempt:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 

L2:
Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 16 ]  Crit:  (1d8+4)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 

Claw:  (1d3+2)[ 4 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ]  Crit:  (1d3+2)[ 3 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+2)[ 7 ]  Crit: [roll24]
If bite succeeds, grapple attempt: [roll25]
 


The druid frowned as the giant beast shook off her spell-   "I suppose I'll need to hurt you after all,"   she thinks to herself.

She twists her talons, calling up a new threat from the forest. Thorns burst forth from the grass into a giant, lethal hedge maze sprawling across the battle

 
 Spoiler 

Region of Wall of Thorns is shown on map.

Each of the enemies takes damage equal to 25 minus their AC (not counting their Dexterity bonuses), and will need to do a full-round Str check to escape.

Based on my reading of the Wall of Thorns rules it seems entirely plausible that Ellyssa can create a wall in a weird shape, and that it can take up the 38 spaces it does on the map (up to 40 squares in fact, 10 2x2 cubes). If I am incorrect please tell me and I will reshape it.

I don't know whether a dinosaur trapped in a wall can attack someone standing next to it- that is entirely at Athedia's discretion.

Ellyssa is trying to wound each of the creatures and also make it a bit tough for the rightmost dinosaur to rejoin the battle (it and the lion can mess with each other).
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt takes a half step back as the earth before him erupts with cruel thorns, holding Daybreaker up to ward off any attacks. He grins as he sees what happened, stepping in close as he dares as he moves his blade in graceful cuts.

 
 Spoiler 

Full attack! Power attack for -7/+14 - Kurt is flanking with Rhennar I think.

Hasted as well, I believe.

 (1d20+7)[ 22 ]  Attack
 (1d20+7)[ 11 ]  Damage

 (1d8+4)[ 5 ]  Attack
 (1d20+2)[ 17 ]  Damage

 (1d20+2)[ 5 ]  Attack
 (1d3+2)[ 5 ]  Damage - this should have been +21 as well!

Not sure which of these will hit.
 
 
 

As the lion tears at the small dinosaur in front of it, the claws and teeth make short work of the creature, it's corpse becoming bound up in the wall of thorns.  Rhenner reached the larger dinosaur and attacked just as Kurt brought down his sword.  Wedged between the trees as it was, the large monsterous dinosaur died quickly, unable to stand up to the sheer power of the blows.

 
 Spoiler: Ruling on attacking 
From my reading of the rules they can still attack, they just take damage from doing so.
 


Elyssa's thorn wall managed to severely annoy the other two dinosaurs however.  While the one seperated from the others lashed out at the lion, the other turned it's attention to the decidedly more helpless Natalia.

 
 Spoiler: Attacking the lion 

Talons:
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 5 ] 

Foreclaws x2:
Attack1:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
Crit1:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ] 
Damage1:  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 

Attack2:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
Crit2:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Damage2:  (1d3+2)[ 4 ] 

Bite:
Attack: (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+2)[ 7 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Attacking Natalia 

Talons:
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 12 ] 

Foreclaws x2:
Attack1:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Crit1:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
Damage1:  (1d3+2)[ 4 ] 

Attack2:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Crit2:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
Damage2:  (1d3+2)[ 3 ] 

Bite:
Attack: (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+2)[ 7 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia cries out in pain as the feathered beast sinks its teeth into her arm. Warm red runs down her arm and drips onto the ground as she wrenches herself out of the creature's grip and backs away in time to hear its claws strike empty air.

 
 Spoiler: Listen check 
not posting Natalia's action until I know the results of this check. Is that ok?

Listen:  (d20+14)[ 22 ] 
Not rolling for spot since she's blind.
 
Admiral
The dinosaur that is separated from the others slashes fiercely at the beast in front of it, and though the lion is badly wounded he does not fall. He responds with his own volley of claws, just as the other summoned beast does.

 
 Spoiler 

Spot:  (1d20+10)[ 23 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+11)[ 15 ] 

For reference: L1 is at 2HP (32-11-5-5-5-4) and L2 is at 14HP.

Waiting to see the results of the lion attacks (including which dinosaur, if either, may be bloodied) before Ellyssa's action.

L1 (separated) on the dinosaur:
Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 15 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 7 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 8 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 8 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 4 ]  Crit:  (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
If bite succeeds, grapple attempt:  (1d20+12)[ 32 ] 

L2 (next to Natalia) on the dinosaur:
Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 6 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 8 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 20 ]  Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+5)[ 7 ]  Crit:  (1d4+5)[ 7 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ]  Crit:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 6 ]  Crit:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
If bite succeeds, grapple attempt:  (1d20+12)[ 31 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Natalia frantically stabs out again and again, flailing blindly.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
its been so long it's hard to remember which of her modifiers have worn off. I'm doing my best here but don't know if it's too much or too little.

Attack 1:  (d20+10)[ 22 ] 
crit:  (d20+10)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 9 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 8 ] 
Miss on 1:  (d2)[ 1 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+10)[ 23 ] 
crit:  (d20+10)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (d4+5)[ 8 ] 
Crit damage:  (d4+5)[ 7 ] 
Miss on 1:  (d2)[ 1 ] 

Attack 3:  (d20+5)[ 20 ] 
crit:  (d20+5)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 10 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 8 ] 
Miss on 1:  (d2)[ 1 ] 

Attack 4:  (d20+5)[ 6 ] 
crit:  (d20+5)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (d4+5)[ 9 ] 
Crit damage:  (d4+5)[ 8 ] 
Miss on 1:  (d2)[ 1 ] 
 
Athedia
The lion on the other side of the thorns swiped at the dinosaur, but couldn't seem to figure out how to hit it without also hitting the thorns.  The dinosaur still looked the worse for wear, and it didn't take much to see that if it moved in the thorns again, it wouldn't survive.

As Natalia swung blindly at the tree (having managed to get turned around without sight), the Lion next to her made short work of the dinosaur next to her, its claws slicing the creatures stomach open.

 
 Spoiler: Listen DC 16 for Elyssa and Natalia, DC 19 for Kurt and Rhenner 
You hear quiet footsteps in the direction of the fire.  There also is a sputtering noise.
 

 
 Spoiler: Spot Elyssa, Kurt (I will add names if others meet the DC) 
In the light of the fire you see three humanoid figures watching the fight.  The silhouettes are tall and look large compared to the elves you are usually around.  Slightly harder to see, you spot another dinosaur, identical to the three trapped inside the wall of thorns.  It is sitting on something and looking up at the three figures, waiting.
 
Admiral
The bird above the party swoops down to the ground, landing next to Natalia in a crouch. What stands is the shape of a elf once more.

 "Who are you?"  Ellyssa shouts towards something near the fire.  "What do you want?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Land, exit wild shape back into elf form. Trying to draw the party's attention there before Mithril/Kurt/Rhenner's action.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 The bird above the party swoops down to the ground, landing next to Natalia in a crouch. What stands is the shape of a elf once more.

 "Who are you?"  Ellyssa shouts towards something near the fire.  "What do you want?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Land, exit wild shape back into elf form. Trying to draw the party's attention there before Mithril/Kurt/Rhenner's action.
 
 
 

One of the figures made a motion for their belt, speaking quickly to the figure in the center.  The sound was rough and familiar, a distinctly a dialect of orcish.

 
 Spoiler: Orcish 
"What is she saying?  Is it a threat?"
 


The middle figure replied, her voice not as youthful as the first speaker.

 
 Spoiler: Orcish 
"Stand down.  She is concerned.  We act, never react."
 


She spoke, her hands to her sides showing she was not brandishing a weapon.  Her Common was stilted and awkward, obviously not something she had much practice using.  "We hunt"   here she waved her hands a little before making a talon gesture   "birds. Atrun, Brarel, learning skills.  You hunt also?" 
Admiral
Elyssa tilted her head, relieved that they didn't seem to be attacking. She had few more spells she could draw from the forest.

 "When I have to,"  she replies.  "These beasts, are they yours?" 

She looks to her new colleagues, wondering if any spoke the language.
Cavelcade
Kurt looks...awkward, staring at the trio as the dinosaur blood drips down his blade. His shoulders are tense, but he slowly moves Daybreaker into a more neutral position, tip resting on the earth.  "Only slavers."  He looks over at the others, a grimace as he automatically looks for the smaller figure who so often acts as the translator when the need arises.  "Why hunt birds?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 One of the figures made a motion for their belt, speaking quickly to the figure in the center.  The sound was rough and familiar, a distinctly a dialect of orcish.

 
 Spoiler: Orcish 
"What is she saying?  Is it a threat?"
 


The middle figure replied, her voice not as youthful as the first speaker.

 
 Spoiler: Orcish 
"Stand down.  She is concerned.  We act, never react."
 


She spoke, her hands to her sides showing she was not brandishing a weapon.  Her Common was stilted and awkward, obviously not something she had much practice using.  "We hunt"   here she waved her hands a little before making a talon gesture   "birds. Atrun, Brarel, learning skills.  You hunt also?"  
 

Natalia freezes at the sound of something--many somethings--approaching, and whips around as they begin to speak. She doesn't know the words but she recognizes the Orcish tongue, and in her blinded panicked state, pain and adrenaline rushing through her, memories of prior battles in caves and shrapnel shops instantly make them a threat.

But even as she holds up  her blades defensively her rational mind steps in and points out their calm voice, the lack of an attack. And then the stilted common. Maybe there's a chance to talk.

She hears Kurt next to her, his heavy sword scratching the dry ground (flashes of yellow beneath her boots as she scrapes some loose earth with her heel) and follows up by saying, asking,  "And...those hunting us. Yhese your birds? Who...you, Atrun, Brarel?" 
CWater
Rhenner walks a little closer, but keeps some distance to the rest of the group. It wasn't always a good idea to cluster together in the presence of possible enemies.

 "Why are you in this forest?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elyssa tilted her head, relieved that they didn't seem to be attacking. She had few more spells she could draw from the forest.

 "When I have to,"  she replies.  "These beasts, are they yours?" 

She looks to her new colleagues, wondering if any spoke the language. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt looks...awkward, staring at the trio as the dinosaur blood drips down his blade. His shoulders are tense, but he slowly moves Daybreaker into a more neutral position, tip resting on the earth.  "Only slavers."  He looks over at the others, a grimace as he automatically looks for the smaller figure who so often acts as the translator when the need arises.  "Why hunt birds?"  
 


 "Ga'Naz mine. Others no."   At its name the large creature on the ground jumped up and went to nuzzle the orc woman.  Where it had sat was revealed a rather squashed looking Mithril, the source of the muffled sounds.  She quickly scrabbled over to Elyssa's side, nursing the bruising on her ribs.  The orc woman butted heads with the creature and smiled at Mithril's hurried retreat.   "Ga'Nuz safe you.  From   here she did the talon gesture again   birds.  Not flight birds.  These warriors." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia freezes at the sound of something--many somethings--approaching, and whips around as they begin to speak. She doesn't know the words but she recognizes the Orcish tongue, and in her blinded panicked state, pain and adrenaline rushing through her, memories of prior battles in caves and shrapnel shops instantly make them a threat.

But even as she holds up  her blades defensively her rational mind steps in and points out their calm voice, the lack of an attack. And then the stilted common. Maybe there's a chance to talk.

She hears Kurt next to her, his heavy sword scratching the dry ground (flashes of yellow beneath her boots as she scrapes some loose earth with her heel) and follows up by saying, asking,  "And...those hunting us. Yhese your birds? Who...you, Atrun, Brarel?"  
 

She watched Natalia's movements and narrowed her eyes.   "Not those.  Those sneak birds. Eyes fix soon."  She nodded to her companions, the woman on one side and the man on the other.   "Atrun, Brarel. Hunt with. I Sanar." 

 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner walks a little closer, but keeps some distance to the rest of the group. It wasn't always a good idea to cluster together in the presence of possible enemies.

 "Why are you in this forest?"  
 

She regarded Rhenner from the distance, face hardening at his question.  "Our forest." 
Cavelcade
Kurt weighs Daybreaker in his hands for a moment, then sheaths it with a bemused sigh, going back over to Natalia and taking her hand, guiding her close to the rest of the group with careful steps.  "You saved us. Hrm. But you say this is your forest? The whole thing belongs to you?"  At this he glances at Elyssa, curious to see how she'll react to orcs claiming control like that.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Ga'Naz mine. Others no."   At its name the large creature on the ground jumped up and went to nuzzle the orc woman.  Where it had sat was revealed a rather squashed looking Mithril, the source of the muffled sounds.  She quickly scrabbled over to Elyssa's side, nursing the bruising on her ribs.  The orc woman butted heads with the creature and smiled at Mithril's hurried retreat.   "Ga'Nuz safe you.  From   here she did the talon gesture again   birds.  Not flight birds.  These warriors." 


She watched Natalia's movements and narrowed her eyes.   "Not those.  Those sneak birds. Eyes fix soon."  She nodded to her companions, the woman on one side and the man on the other.   "Atrun, Brarel. Hunt with. I Sanar."  
 

There's scratching, the sound of ruffled feathers and familiar hard breathing and the sound of someone running. But she can't see any of it, all she knows is that there were the little feathered standing lizard-like creatures  that they called birds and then the sounds of more and bigger ones.  "I Natalia. Who Ga'Nuz? Can't see, don't know."  She looks around scared.  "You hunting...sneak birds then, found us? Are sneak birds...small ones, blinding ones? And eyes fix soon? How soon?"  Natalia asks to confirm, hoping and praying that she heard right.


 She regarded Rhenner from the distance, face hardening at his question.  "Our forest."  

 "Your forest?"  There's no accusation, just confusion.  "Elyssa, Rhenner, where we in woods? Thought we near your home." 
CWater
 "I don't think anyone can claim the whole forest as their own",  Rhenner replies,  "But I don't remember orcs living this close before. However, this is near the frontier, borders... change." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Ga'Naz mine. Others no."   At its name the large creature on the ground jumped up and went to nuzzle the orc woman.  Where it had sat was revealed a rather squashed looking Mithril, the source of the muffled sounds.  She quickly scrabbled over to Elyssa's side, nursing the bruising on her ribs.  The orc woman butted heads with the creature and smiled at Mithril's hurried retreat.   "Ga'Nuz safe you.  From   here she did the talon gesture again   birds.  Not flight birds.  These warriors."  
 

Elyssa cannot help but smile a moment, at least once she notices Mithril is not badly hurt- she has an affection for animals both wild and trained. She lays a hand on the wizard and casts a cantrip, helping with the bruises.

She regarded Rhenner from the distance, face hardening at his question.  "Our forest." [/QUOTE]

 "I've lived in this forest for almost two centuries,"  Elyssa replies, calmly but firmly.  "Still I would not think to call it my own." 
 "But I see you're working with the creatures of Woodhelm. Do you work towards its protection, or its destruction? We've seen many orcs who wish only to burn it." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 There's scratching, the sound of ruffled feathers and familiar hard breathing and the sound of someone running. But she can't see any of it, all she knows is that there were the little feathered standing lizard-like creatures  that they called birds and then the sounds of more and bigger ones.  "I Natalia. Who Ga'Nuz? Can't see, don't know."  She looks around scared.  "You hunting...sneak birds then, found us? Are sneak birds...small ones, blinding ones? And eyes fix soon? How soon?"  Natalia asks to confirm, hoping and praying that she heard right. 
 

The orc woman shook her head, knowing that the girl couldn't see her.  "Too small. We no hunt acid sneak birds.  We hunt meat warrior birds.  Eyes fix, water boil time."   The woman seemed amused that Natalia spoke in a similarly broken Common to her own.


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elyssa cannot help but smile a moment, at least once she notices Mithril is not badly hurt- she has an affection for animals both wild and trained. She lays a hand on the wizard and casts a cantrip, helping with the bruises. 
 

Mithril winced gratefully at Elyssa.   "If it helps, they didn't try to hurt me.  It only sat on me when I tried going for my book." 

 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt weighs Daybreaker in his hands for a moment, then sheaths it with a bemused sigh, going back over to Natalia and taking her hand, guiding her close to the rest of the group with careful steps.  "You saved us. Hrm. But you say this is your forest? The whole thing belongs to you?"  At this he glances at Elyssa, curious to see how she'll react to orcs claiming control like that. 
 


  "Your forest?"  There's no accusation, just confusion.  "Elyssa, Rhenner, where we in woods? Thought we near your home."  


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I don't think anyone can claim the whole forest as their own",  Rhenner replies,  "But I don't remember orcs living this close before. However, this is near the frontier, borders... change."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "I've lived in this forest for almost two centuries,"  Elyssa replies, calmly but firmly.  "Still I would not think to call it my own." 
 "But I see you're working with the creatures of Woodhelm. Do you work towards its protection, or its destruction? We've seen many orcs who wish only to burn it."  
 

 "Elves like trees.  Part of forest not own forest.  Live to long to prize.  Vatru avoid, elves boring."   Here she leaned over to her companions and let off a quick sentence that was followed by a shared laugh.

 
 Spoiler: Orcish 
 "The droners are worried about us taking over their land." 
 


Then she grew very serious looking.  "No other orcs.  Only Sen-Olva."   She paused for a second, looking for the word in common.   "Arsonists." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 The orc woman shook her head, knowing that the girl couldn't see her.  "Too small. We no hunt acid sneak birds.  We hunt meat warrior birds.  Eyes fix, water boil time."   The woman seemed amused that Natalia spoke in a similarly broken Common to her own.



Mithril winced gratefully at Elyssa.   "If it helps, they didn't try to hurt me.  It only sat on me when I tried going for my book." 
 "Elves like trees.  Part of forest not own forest.  Live to long to prize.  Vatru avoid, elves boring."   Here she leaned over to her companions and let off a quick sentence that was followed by a shared laugh.

 
 Spoiler: Orcish 
 "The droners are worried about us taking over their land." 
 


Then she grew very serious looking.  "No other orcs.  Only Sen-Olva."   She paused for a second, looking for the word in common.   "Arsonists."  
 

Elyssa gives a small but noticeable sigh of relief at this (and seems to take "elves like trees" as at least partly a compliment).

 "We hunt the same prey,"  she replies, and seems to relax.  "If you share what you know about those who burn these woods, we can as well." 
 
 Spoiler 

Someone else should probably ask about whether they know of an orc known as the Hooded One (since I don't think Elyssa's heard much about it).
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 The orc woman shook her head, knowing that the girl couldn't see her.  "Too small. We no hunt acid sneak birds.  We hunt meat warrior birds.  Eyes fix, water boil time."   The woman seemed amused that Natalia spoke in a similarly broken Common to her own. 
 

 "So they...track us on own? And you track us at...same time?"  That sounds odd, but otherwise things seem to be going well, and she isn't taking advantage of Natalia's own blindness. In fact, the assurance that her eyes will recover brings a sigh of relief from the rogue, and she pours some water on a cloth and holds it over her eyes. It helps, a little bit, but her eyes still burn too much to even dare opening them.

 
 Spoiler: Sense motive 
 (d20+6)[ 19 ] 
 


 Mithril winced gratefully at Elyssa.   "If it helps, they didn't try to hurt me.  It only sat on me when I tried going for my book."  

 "Does help. You ok?!"  The guilt at not noticing Mithril was injured flickers in Natalia again, though her relief helps quell it.


  "Elves like trees.  Part of forest not own forest.  Live to long to prize.  Vatru avoid, elves boring."   Here she leaned over to her companions and let off a quick sentence that was followed by a shared laugh.

 
 Spoiler: Orcish 
 "The droners are worried about us taking over their land." 
 


Then she grew very serious looking.  "No other orcs.  Only Sen-Olva."   She paused for a second, looking for the word in common.   "Arsonists."  

 "Arsonists? Tree burners?"  Natalia still can't see, but she can feel the atmosphere change.  "Are they why...you here? We fight tree-burners too, searching then. What...kinds of burners you see?"  The dragon's roar flashes in her mind again and she shudders. That beast had missed her before, but if it were to attack here and now...
Cavelcade
Kurt had been half drifting off standing up for a moment, but he jerks upright at the word arsonists.  "Arsonists? Were any of them hanging around with a red dragon? We were ambushed by one coming into the forest."  He shivers a bit at the memory of that hot breath.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "So they...track us on own? And you track us at...same time?"  That sounds odd, but otherwise things seem to be going well, and she isn't taking advantage of Natalia's own blindness. In fact, the assurance that her eyes will recover brings a sigh of relief from the rogue, and she pours some water on a cloth and holds it over her eyes. It helps, a little bit, but her eyes still burn too much to even dare opening them.

 
 Spoiler: Sense motive 
[roll0]
 
 
 


 "Each year, run farther.  We track where led." 

  "Does help. You ok?!"  The guilt at not noticing Mithril was injured flickers in Natalia again, though her relief helps quell it. 

 "I am fine, just bruised."  Mithril went over to Natalia and gently squeezed her hand, then helped hold the cloth over the rogues eyes.


  "Arsonists? Tree burners?"  Natalia still can't see, but she can feel the atmosphere change.  "Are they why...you here? We fight tree-burners too, searching then. What...kinds of burners you see?"  The dragon's roar flashes in her mind again and she shudders. That beast had missed her before, but if it were to attack here and now... 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt had been half drifting off standing up for a moment, but he jerks upright at the word arsonists.  "Arsonists? Were any of them hanging around with a red dragon? We were ambushed by one coming into the forest."  He shivers a bit at the memory of that hot breath. 
 

 "Alone. They not with other.  But small group.  Dead now."  She let a toothy grin slip.  Looking at her companions and at the moon above she paused, then spoke again.   "Bring warrior birds back home. Hunt done.  More answers there?" 
CWater
Rhenner rubs his forehead.  "Perhaps it is the long day and restless sleep, but I can't understand what she is saying."  He walks over to Mithril and Natalia.  "Do you get what she means?"

"How are your eyes?",  the medic asks the blinded rogue.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Each year, run farther.  We track where led."  
 

 "Each year prey run longer...you run longer too?"  Natalia attempts to translate.


  "I am fine, just bruised."  Mithril went over to Natalia and gently squeezed her hand, then helped hold the cloth over the rogues eyes. 

 "...Good,"  Natalia murmurs quietly, some of the tension-borne strength going out of her as she unconsciously leans into Mithril and the cooling water of the cloth.

 "Alone. They not with other.  But small group.  Dead now."  She let a toothy grin slip.  Looking at her companions and at the moon above she paused, then spoke again.   "Bring warrior birds back home. Hunt done.  More answers there?" [/QUOTE]


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner rubs his forehead.  "Perhaps it is the long day and restless sleep, but I can't understand what she is saying."  He walks over to Mithril and Natalia.  "Do you get what she means?"  
 

 

Natalia looks at Rhenner, frowning under the cloth. Sure these orcs may talk a bit like her, but it's different this filter through a true second language than whatever barrier may be between her own mind and mouth. And then to filter the translation again through that Nutspeak...well, she might as well try.

 "Think...they killed arsonists. And want go home, want us...follow them home, talk more then?"  she says with some uncertainty.  "Anyone have speech spell?" 

 "How are your eyes?", 

 
  the medic asks the blinded rogue. 

 "Hurts,"  Natalia says quietly.  "But...less. Hope fine soon. Need help walking, please,"  she adds quietly at the end, a little embarrassed to even request it.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner rubs his forehead.  "Perhaps it is the long day and restless sleep, but I can't understand what she is saying."  He walks over to Mithril and Natalia.  "Do you get what she means?"

"How are your eyes?",  the medic asks the blinded rogue. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Each year prey run longer...you run longer too?"  Natalia attempts to translate.



 "...Good,"  Natalia murmurs quietly, some of the tension-borne strength going out of her as she unconsciously leans into Mithril and the cooling water of the cloth.

Natalia looks at Rhenner, frowning under the cloth. Sure these orcs may talk a bit like her, but it's different this filter through a true second language than whatever barrier may be between her own mind and mouth. And then to filter the translation again through that Nutspeak...well, she might as well try.

 "Think...they killed arsonists. And want go home, want us...follow them home, talk more then?"  she says with some uncertainty.  "Anyone have speech spell?" 
 "Hurts,"  Natalia says quietly.  "But...less. Hope fine soon. Need help walking, please,"  she adds quietly at the end, a little embarrassed to even request it. 
 

 "Blind twig speaks well."  Sanara gestured for Atrun and Brarel to start cleaning the dinosaurs corpses for transport.   "Easy carry home.  Found free hooves.  My son watches." 
Cavelcade
Kurt listens to the orcs, then to Natalia before understanding dawns a little.  "Go back with them?"  His voice is tinged with suspicion, but even more than that with exhaustion. That's something he doesn't notice anymore, though, there's just not enough time to deal with it for now.  "...what do you think?"  He's turned to Elyssa at that, figuring she might have the best chance of guessing right about what to do here.
Admiral
 "I say we go with them,"  Elyssa replies quietly.  "There are orcs who oppose the forest... but stories as well of orcs who defend it. It can be difficult to trust outsiders, but that is how I came to travel with you." 

She turns to the orcs and nods.

 
 Spoiler 

I'm in!
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Blind twig speaks well."  Sanara gestured for Atrun and Brarel to start cleaning the dinosaurs corpses for transport.   "Easy carry home.  Found free hooves.  My son watches."  
 

Natalia smiles a little with pride at that (who else could blind twig refer to?) but the second thing Sanara says catches her attention.  "Free hooves? Horses? Found...where?" 
 
 Spoiler: Question 
Athedia, Natalia rolled a 19 on sense motive. Did she pick up anything with that?
 


 
 Originally Posted by Cavelcade 
 Kurt listens to the orcs, then to Natalia before understanding dawns a little.  "Go back with them?"  His voice is tinged with suspicion, but even more than that with exhaustion. That's something he doesn't notice anymore, though, there's just not enough time to deal with it for now.  "...what do you think?"  He's turned to Elyssa at that, figuring she might have the best chance of guessing right about what to do here. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "I say we go with them,"  Elyssa replies quietly.  "There are orcs who oppose the forest... but stories as well of orcs who defend it. It can be difficult to trust outsiders, but that is how I came to travel with you." 

She turns to the orcs and nods.

 
 Spoiler 

I'm in!
 
 
 

Natalia nods as well.  "If wanted fight, would...fight now, when Mithril squished, I blind. Not in camp, with son, family to guard." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia smiles a little with pride at that (who else could blind twig refer to?) but the second thing Sanara says catches her attention.  "Free hooves? Horses? Found...where?"  
 

 "We did lose ours earlier today, think they could be the same?" 

 Natalia nods as well.  "If wanted fight, would...fight now, when Mithril squished, I blind. Not in camp, with son, family to guard."  


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
  "I say we go with them,"  Elyssa replies quietly.  "There are orcs who oppose the forest... but stories as well of orcs who defend it. It can be difficult to trust outsiders, but that is how I came to travel with you." 

She turns to the orcs and nods.

 
 Spoiler 

I'm in!
 
 
 

 "It might be useful to go",  Rhenner agrees,  "But I would be more comfortable if I could pray first, I'm almost out of spells. And I'd like to make sure Natalia regains her sight too." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "We did lose ours earlier today, think they could be the same?" 
 "It might be useful to go",  Rhenner agrees,  "But I would be more comfortable if I could pray first, I'm almost out of spells. And I'd like to make sure Natalia regains her sight too."  
 

Sanara nodded.   "I wait."   She spoke to Atrun and Brarel and soon the two had disappeared back into the woods, carrying bags of meat and hides from the raptors.  Sanara busied herself collecting the remaining meat, hides, feathers and bones and storing it in a bag tied across her back.  The amounts that went in did not fit the amounts that should logically have fit.  "Sleep.  Sun rises fast." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia smiles a little with pride at that (who else could blind twig refer to?) but the second thing Sanara says catches her attention.  "Free hooves? Horses? Found...where?" 
 
 Spoiler: Question 
Athedia, Natalia rolled a 19 on sense motive. Did she pick up anything with that?
 

Natalia nods as well.  "If wanted fight, would...fight now, when Mithril squished, I blind. Not in camp, with son, family to guard."  
 

 "Hooves owners none.  Running.  Hooves need care." 
 
 Spoiler: Coffee 
Nope, Sanara seems to be telling the truth
 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Sanara nodded.   "I wait."   She spoke to Atrun and Brarel and soon the two had disappeared back into the woods, carrying bags of meat and hides from the raptors.  Sanara busied herself collecting the remaining meat, hides, feathers and bones and storing it in a bag tied across her back.  The amounts that went in did not fit the amounts that should logically have fit.  "Sleep.  Sun rises fast."  
 

Ellyssa nods.  "In the morning, we may have spells that let us communicate with you more easily,"  she adds.  "And we can go find our horses." 

She stretches her arms, turning back into a hawk and rising into the air, using her final opportunity of the day to take an animal's shape. She'd be sleeping for the next few hours, but just in case their new companions betrayed them, she may have an advantage being off the ground.

 
 Spoiler 

Ready to sleep and start up in the (character's) morning!
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Sanara nodded.   "I wait."   She spoke to Atrun and Brarel and soon the two had disappeared back into the woods, carrying bags of meat and hides from the raptors.  Sanara busied herself collecting the remaining meat, hides, feathers and bones and storing it in a bag tied across her back.  The amounts that went in did not fit the amounts that should logically have fit.  "Sleep.  Sun rises fast."  
 

Rhenner bows his head a little.  "Thank you."  He looks at the others,  "My watch is not quite over, but do you mind if we change now?" 
 
 Spoiler 
The question is mainly directed to the one whose turn it's next, but I can't find who it was supposed to be. Maybe Kurt?
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner bows his head a little.  "Thank you."  He looks at the others,  "My watch is not quite over, but do you mind if we change now?" 
 
 Spoiler 
The question is mainly directed to the one whose turn it's next, but I can't find who it was supposed to be. Maybe Kurt?
 
 
 

Sanara waved him to his bedroll.   "All sleep.  I watch."   She pointed to a simple band around her finger.   "Little rest." 
 Next Morning:   As the group awoke they saw Sanara sitting with Ga'Naz, helping the large creature groom its feathers.  She had started roasting some of the cuts of meat left from the dinosaurs.  Mithril grabbed a bite and went off behind a tree to study her spellbook.  Natalia could see Sanara's features for the first time and the rest of the party could see that Sanara was older, well into middle age, and had scars both small and large running up and down her arms.
CWater
Rhenner is surprised he was actually able to get some sleep in the last hours. And no one tried to maim or murder them while they rested, perhaps trust was not dead after all.

He goes first to check up on Natalia's sight, prodding her awake if need be.  "Doesn't look like there's any permanent damage",  he concludes after examining her eyes.

He then sits down to meditate and pray for Fharlanghn's blessing and guidance, with a shred more dedication than usual.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Sanara waved him to his bedroll.   "All sleep.  I watch."   She pointed to a simple band around her finger.   "Little rest." 
 Next Morning:   As the group awoke they saw Sanara sitting with Ga'Naz, helping the large creature groom its feathers.  She had started roasting some of the cuts of meat left from the dinosaurs.  Mithril grabbed a bite and went off behind a tree to study her spellbook.  Natalia could see Sanara's features for the first time and the rest of the party could see that Sanara was older, well into middle age, and had scars both small and large running up and down her arms. 
 

Natalia stays awake the longest, holding the compress over her eyes and waiting. She's silent as she waits, and only when the pain eases and her vision begins to return does she let out a son of relief.

The next morning Natalia finds herself regarding their new allies with some curiosity as she eats the roasted dinosaur meat. It's tough, a little bit greasy, but she eats with gusto. Perhaps there's a bit too much satisfaction in devouring the creatures that blinded her, left her terrified and helpless, but...well, she's also hungry.

 "Sanara?"  she asks.  "I...Natalia. Thanks, for...last night." 

 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner is surprised he was actually able to get some sleep in the last hours. And no one tried to maim or murder them while they rested, perhaps trust was not dead after all.

He goes first to check up on Natalia's sight, prodding her awake if need be.  "Doesn't look like there's any permanent damage",  he concludes after examining her eyes.

He then sits down to meditate and pray for Fharlanghn's blessing and guidance, with a shred more dedication than usual. 
 

Natalia's already half awake, and as she sees Rhenner's face (slightly tanned skin, brown hair growing out over pointed ears), she grins and lets out a joyous laugh. She lets him do whatever he wants on his exam and breathes a sigh of relief at his prognosis, letting herself fully relax in his hands.

 "Thank you,"  she cries out, still laughing. She goes over to Kurt, and Elyssa, and Mithril, just taking in the fact that she can see them again.
Admiral
Ellyssa remains on her branch as the sun rises and those below her rise. She feels more connected to the forest than when she's walking on two legs, making this a good time to replenish her magic.

Once she's refreshed, she flies back to the ground and transforms into her elven shape, nodding at the newcomers.

 
 Spoiler 

Ready to go!
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia stays awake the longest, holding the compress over her eyes and waiting. She's silent as she waits, and only when the pain eases and her vision begins to return does she let out a son of relief.

The next morning Natalia finds herself regarding their new allies with some curiosity as she eats the roasted dinosaur meat. It's tough, a little bit greasy, but she eats with gusto. Perhaps there's a bit too much satisfaction in devouring the creatures that blinded her, left her terrified and helpless, but...well, she's also hungry.

 "Sanara?"  she asks.  "I...Natalia. Thanks, for...last night." 



Natalia's already half awake, and as she sees Rhenner's face (slightly tanned skin, brown hair growing out over pointed ears), she grins and lets out a joyous laugh. She lets him do whatever he wants on his exam and breathes a sigh of relief at his prognosis, letting herself fully relax in his hands.

 "Thank you,"  she cries out, still laughing. She goes over to Kurt, and Elyssa, and Mithril, just taking in the fact that she can see them again. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Ellyssa remains on her branch as the sun rises and those below her rise. She feels more connected to the forest than when she's walking on two legs, making this a good time to replenish her magic.

Once she's refreshed, she flies back to the ground and transforms into her elven shape, nodding at the newcomers.

 
 Spoiler 

Ready to go!
 
 
 

Sanara wordlessly offered Ellyssa a large slab of meat before scuffing out the fire.

As Natalia came over Mithril greeted her with a hug, before looking at the girls eyes.  After manipulating Natalia's head to look in a few directions she seemed satisfied.   "Don't scare me like that again." 

Once the group finished eating and packing, Sanara stood again.   "Follow."   She started off into the woods, followed by the dinosaur who would race back and forth between her and the end of the line.

It took an hours walk through the woods before they reached another campsite.  The two orcs from the night before sat by the fire, and tied to a tree were three familiar horses.  On the back of Honey sat a small orc boy, who seemed to be trying to convince the horse to walk in place.  Sanara went over and plucked him from the horses back.   
 Spoiler: Orcish 
"That is no way to treat the horse.  Respect it, don't harass it."
 
  Still holding the child, who was now squirming, she turned back.   "Son.  Fool." 
Admiral
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Sanara wordlessly offered Ellyssa a large slab of meat before scuffing out the fire. 
 

Ellyssa gratefully accepts the meat, drawing a small knife to slice it. While she seems accustomed to eating hunted prey, she does look as if she'd prefer to do so with sharper teeth and claws.


 As Natalia came over Mithril greeted her with a hug, before looking at the girls eyes.  After manipulating Natalia's head to look in a few directions she seemed satisfied.   "Don't scare me like that again." 

Once the group finished eating and packing, Sanara stood again.   "Follow."   She started off into the woods, followed by the dinosaur who would race back and forth between her and the end of the line.

It took an hours walk through the woods before they reached another campsite.  The two orcs from the night before sat by the fire, and tied to a tree were three familiar horses.  On the back of Honey sat a small orc boy, who seemed to be trying to convince the horse to walk in place.  Sanara went over and plucked him from the horses back.   
 Spoiler: Orcish 
"That is no way to treat the horse.  Respect it, don't harass it."
 
  Still holding the child, who was now squirming, she turned back.   "Son.  Fool."  

Elyssa smiles at the young orc and makes a small gesture towards the skiy. The sound of wings grows louder and Sentry, who had been flying above them, lands on her outstretched hand. With a glance towards Sanara to ensure the orc did not disapprove, she steps towards them and reaches out with the bird, curious if the boy would be entertained.  "When I was a your age, I tried to talk to animals as well,"  she says to the child.  "It took some time before they listened to me, as they do to your mother as well." 
 "I take it we've found your horses?"  she asks the party.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Sanara wordlessly offered Ellyssa a large slab of meat before scuffing out the fire.

As Natalia came over Mithril greeted her with a hug, before looking at the girls eyes.  After manipulating Natalia's head to look in a few directions she seemed satisfied.   "Don't scare me like that again."  
 

Natalia returns the hug and sniffles, holding back the surge of mixed emotions. She wants to promise that, wants to promise it so badly, but with the stakes what they are and the red dragon that ambushed them, can she do that?

 "Won't,"  she lies.


 Once the group finished eating and packing, Sanara stood again.   "Follow."   She started off into the woods, followed by the dinosaur who would race back and forth between her and the end of the line.

It took an hours walk through the woods before they reached another campsite.  The two orcs from the night before sat by the fire, and tied to a tree were three familiar horses.  On the back of Honey sat a small orc boy, who seemed to be trying to convince the horse to walk in place.  Sanara went over and plucked him from the horses back.   
 Spoiler: Orcish 
"That is no way to treat the horse.  Respect it, don't harass it."
 
  Still holding the child, who was now squirming, she turned back.   "Son.  Fool."  

Natalia laughs, running over to the horses and offering Rust a slightly squashed apple.  'Yes, these our horses. Thank you, Sanara, for...finding and guarding!"  She turns to the young boy (flashes of that cavern full of orc children suddenly flash in her mind, but this is different. They're not running a gauntlet with dread ahead and terror nipping at their heels and the rush of battle, but relaxed, standing around the remains of a fire, with no steel showing at all) and asks,  "You want...horseback ride?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 As Natalia came over Mithril greeted her with a hug, before looking at the girls eyes.  After manipulating Natalia's head to look in a few directions she seemed satisfied.   "Don't scare me like that again."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia returns the hug and sniffles, holding back the surge of mixed emotions. She wants to promise that, wants to promise it so badly, but with the stakes what they are and the red dragon that ambushed them, can she do that?

 "Won't,"  she lies.  
 

Rhenner gives the two a long look, and shakes his head slightly to himself.


 Once the group finished eating and packing, Sanara stood again.   "Follow."   She started off into the woods, followed by the dinosaur who would race back and forth between her and the end of the line.

It took an hours walk through the woods before they reached another campsite.  The two orcs from the night before sat by the fire, and tied to a tree were three familiar horses.  On the back of Honey sat a small orc boy, who seemed to be trying to convince the horse to walk in place.  Sanara went over and plucked him from the horses back.   
 Spoiler: Orcish 
"That is no way to treat the horse.  Respect it, don't harass it."
 
  Still holding the child, who was now squirming, she turned back.   "Son.  Fool."  


 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elyssa smiles at the young orc and makes a small gesture towards the skiy. The sound of wings grows louder and Sentry, who had been flying above them, lands on her outstretched hand. With a glance towards Sanara to ensure the orc did not disapprove, she steps towards them and reaches out with the bird, curious if the boy would be entertained.  "When I was a your age, I tried to talk to animals as well,"  she says to the child.  "It took some time before they listened to me, as they do to your mother as well." 
 "I take it we've found your horses?"  she asks the party. 
 


 Natalia laughs, running over to the horses and offering Rust a slightly squashed apple.  'Yes, these our horses. Thank you, Sanara, for...finding and guarding!"  She turns to the young boy (flashes of that cavern full of orc children suddenly flash in her mind, but this is different. They're not running a gauntlet with dread ahead and terror nipping at their heels and the rush of battle, but relaxed, standing around the remains of a fire, with no steel showing at all) and asks,  "You want...horseback ride?"  

Rhenner is relieved that the orcs really seem to mean no harm, few warbands carried children with them.  "Yes, thank you for taking care of them, they must have ran a long way yesterday in their panic",  he says to Sanara, hoping she will understand enough despite the language barrier,  "We would much like to have them back, but how can we repay you the trouble?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Admiral 
 Elyssa smiles at the young orc and makes a small gesture towards the skiy. The sound of wings grows louder and Sentry, who had been flying above them, lands on her outstretched hand. With a glance towards Sanara to ensure the orc did not disapprove, she steps towards them and reaches out with the bird, curious if the boy would be entertained.  "When I was a your age, I tried to talk to animals as well,"  she says to the child.  "It took some time before they listened to me, as they do to your mother as well." 
 "I take it we've found your horses?"  she asks the party. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Natalia laughs, running over to the horses and offering Rust a slightly squashed apple.  'Yes, these our horses. Thank you, Sanara, for...finding and guarding!"  She turns to the young boy (flashes of that cavern full of orc children suddenly flash in her mind, but this is different. They're not running a gauntlet with dread ahead and terror nipping at their heels and the rush of battle, but relaxed, standing around the remains of a fire, with no steel showing at all) and asks,  "You want...horseback ride?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Rhenner is relieved that the orcs really seem to mean no harm, few warbands carried children with them.  "Yes, thank you for taking care of them, they must have ran a long way yesterday in their panic",  he says to Sanara, hoping she will understand enough despite the language barrier,  "We would much like to have them back, but how can we repay you the trouble?"  
 

The boy reached out carefully to pet the top of Sentry's head.  He looked at his mother and she translated what Elyssa had said to him.  He nodded enthusiastically before going to play with Ga'Naz who had started to gently butt the boy.  Sanara undid the rope holding the horses to the tree and started to lead them down yet another path, followed by the rest of her hunting party.   "Return later.  Need talk tell. Sen-Olva danger." 
 
 Spoiler: Horses 
Please retcon the number of horses to be at the appropriate amounts, thank you very much.  I can't count.
 
CWater
Rhenner turned to Mithril,  "Could you cast the language spell on her, if she doesn't mind, so that we might speak properly? I can't understand at all what she's trying to say, or do. Or where is she taking the horses now?!"  He sighs.  "It's much more difficult than with Natalia, she at least has more words, even if she has difficulty placing them." 
Athedia
Mithril nodded and went up Sanara.   "This is a spell, to help us talk."   She offered her hand which was slightly glowing and Sanara touched it.   "Rhenner wanted to know where you are taking our horses?" 

Sanara looked surprised as she suddenly had a clear understanding of what Mithril was saying.   "To my village, you have experience with the arsonists.  We need to know about them." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril nodded and went up Sanara.   "This is a spell, to help us talk."   She offered her hand which was slightly glowing and Sanara touched it.   "Rhenner wanted to know where you are taking our horses?" 

Sanara looked surprised as she suddenly had a clear understanding of what Mithril was saying.   "To my village, you have experience with the arsonists.  We need to know about them."  
 

Natalia smiles.  "She can...make all tongues heard, known. Lasts...little more than hour. What about arsonists?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Mithril nodded and went up Sanara.   "This is a spell, to help us talk."   She offered her hand which was slightly glowing and Sanara touched it.   "Rhenner wanted to know where you are taking our horses?" 

Sanara looked surprised as she suddenly had a clear understanding of what Mithril was saying.   "To my village, you have experience with the arsonists.  We need to know about them."  
 

 "We were in the elven village when they attacked it yesterday.",  Rhenner replies,  "I don't know if there is much for us to tell, but if we can help, we will, though we are somewhat in a hurry to be on our way too." 
 
 Spoiler 
I forget, what actually is our next short term goal? Were will still to meet up with the Hulburg group, or did we change that?
 
Athedia
Sanara looked at Rhenner, confusion then a quick hint of guilt flashing across her face.   "Of course. I wasn't thinking.  You have your people to warn as well.  And mine are far. Headed to wood and stone camp?  Some how you know she is talking about a town or settlement    I won't go to there.  But I know the animal routes, safer than the road.  Narrow, but safe."   She turned to her men and barked some orders.  They nodded, and hefted their bags, jogging into the forest with her son following.

 
 Spoiler: Reminders 
Response from Lucius:

 Intel confirms ours. Spotted red dragon southern horizon at dawn. Hooded orc, barbarians, giants east of Stockwood. Meet us at Stockwood gates by noon tomorrow. 

Rhenner: Rhenner recalls that Stockwood is a largely human settlement about ten miles west of Llenovia, a bit larger than his home.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Sanara looked at Rhenner, confusion then a quick hint of guilt flashing across her face.   "Of course. I wasn't thinking.  You have your people to warn as well.  And mine are far. Headed to wood and stone camp?  Some how you know she is talking about a town or settlement    I won't go to there.  But I know the animal routes, safer than the road.  Narrow, but safe."   She turned to her men and barked some orders.  They nodded, and hefted their bags, jogging into the forest with her son following.

 
 Spoiler: Reminders 
Response from Lucius:


Rhenner: Rhenner recalls that Stockwood is a largely human settlement about ten miles west of Llenovia, a bit larger than his home.
 
 
 

 "Actually, it is some uh,  friends  we have agreed to meet. At noon today by the gates of Stockwood."  If Sanara doesn't know the place by name, he tries to describe it.  "We can come with you, but we must make it to this meeting. If you wish us to come somewhere far, I hope we could go meet this people first, the catch up." 
flat_footed
  The Fullmetal Mod   : Raise Thread 