[User] "Nyan!"   "Shh!  Someone might be around and you're not allowed in here!"   These are the sounds that come from the female common room of the dorm a certain Sunday morning, just past 10.  The door to one of the bedrooms slowly opens, and Asami peeks in.   "Eep!"   She quickly disappears again, having seen that the room is not at all empty as she'd hoped.   "Time for a new plan..."   "Nyan?"   "Yes, that too."

[User]
 Curled up in bed with her laptop, Miyuki lets her gaze flicker up above her computer's screen as the door slowly cracks open.  She raises an eyebrow, waits a few seconds, and calls out.

 "Um... is s-someone there?"

[User] Asami flattens herself against the wall next to the door, not noticing that it's still slightly open.   "She heard you!"   "Purrll?"   "No, I'm quite sure it was you.  Yuki-chan wouldn't question my presence in the dorm, after all."   "Mrap!"   "Wait, come back, she'll..."   A small tabby cat trots through the barely open door and starts investigating the room and its occupant.  Asami appears a few steps behind and freezes in the doorway.   "Umm... I can explain?"

[User]
 Miyuki's eyes fix nervously on the cat, following its movements around the room, until she gives Asami a blank look.

 "I, uh... I think an explanation would be in order, y-yes."

[User] "Yes.  Well.  See... she's lost.  And came in through the window.  You know that big tree right outside the window at the end of the hall, opposite the stairs?  She climbed it and couldn't get down, and someone left that window open, then I found her, and..."   Asami seems to realize she's rambling and shuts up at this point, stepping in and closing the door behind her.  In a much quieter tone she continues.   "So you know we can't have her in the dorm... I'm going to stage a daring escape!"   Her face suddenly twists into a grin as she looks at Miyuki.  One may get the sense that today is one of her more 'off' days and will most likely find some way, no matter how unlikely that way is normally, to get into serious trouble.   "Hey... want to help?  It could be fun... we could make it an adventure!"

[User]
 Miyuki sighs, and closes her laptop with a faint smile.

 "An adventure, huh...?  Well... c-count me in, I guess.  It's not like I'm doing anything more interesting.  I, uh, assume you have a p-plan or something."   She looks at Asami expectantly.   "Right?"

[User] " I knew I forgot something... "   Asami mutters, moving over to where her clothes are kept.  She looks over at Miyuki to check her expression and gives a wink.   "Kidding!  Of course I have a plan.  I did find that cat an entire minute and a half ago, didn't I?"   She starts to strip out of her clothes to put on something more appropriate to 'adventuring.'  In this case, it happens to be remarkably similar to what she uses for high-contact morning runs.

[User]
 Setting her computer back in its case, Miyuki hops from the side of the bed.  She's already dressed in her all-purposes weekend outfit of a plain shirt and skirt, and she glances toward her clothes drawers.

 "Um, is this plan gonna require anything I ought to get dressed for?  You look like you're r-ready to roll, so..."

[User] "You should be fine.  Actually no, if you have jeans they'd be a good pick.  Hrmm..."   Asami wiggles her toes and looks down thoughtfully.   Map!   The cat pounces at a toe, trying to nibble on it.   "Well yes, I know you can go out bare-pawed, but that doesn't mean the tree bark or ground will be so kind to me."   She finishes pulling off her lace gloves and putting on a sports bra and shirt.   "Hmm... On second thought, Miyuki, there's no reason for you to leave through the window like me.  Forget what I said about jeans, but could you grab my shoes if you take the front door?"

[User]
 Miyuki's eyes seem to slowly widen in disbelief as she pieces together Asami's plan.

 "The w-window?!  Y-yeah, I think I'd just as soon go out the door.  And I'll get your shoes for you, just l-let me put some on for myself..."

She rummages around in her drawers for a bit and finally slips on a pair of thigh socks.

 "M-maybe it's not my place to ask, but... are you g-gonna be okay?"

[User] "Of course I'll be okay!  I do this all the time, after all, don't I?"   She finishes dressing and winks, scooping up the cat and starting toward the door.  She pauses just before reaching it, turns around, and slowly steps toward Miyuki with a soft, caring smile.   "Yuki-chan..."   She hugs the girl with the arm not holding the cat, then steps away again.   "It's  always  your place to ask."   With that, she vanishes out the door.

[User] Miyuki takes her time and strolls out to the front door, slipping on her shoes and picking up Asami's as well.  She steps out into the outside air, takes a breath, and starts looking around for Asami.

[User] Asami sits on the grass under a nearby tree, petting the cat.   "I know it was a scary climb down, but it's okay now!  See?"   "Mrooo... nya?"   "Exactly!"   She wears a bright smile as her gaze shifts toward Miyuki of its own accord, making her start to stand up.

[User]
 Miyuki makes her way over to the tree, hands clasped behind her back.

 "So..."  she begins, looking at the cat.   "D-do we just let it go here, or what?"

[User] "Map?"   Asami looks at the cat questioningly.   "I didn't quite catch that one, but I rather hoped this would be more interesting than it was.  ... Want to go to the park and see if we can find out where she lives?"   She looks up hopefully, taking her shoes and putting them on.

[User]
 Miyuki shrugs, and looks down the sidewalk over her shoulder.

 "S-sure, if you want to.  I wouldn't mind just, um... s-spending some time with you, at any rate."   She looks bashfully at the ground.

[User] Asami blinks, caught a little off guard, but seems... well... extraordinarily happy.   "Curses, you've caught on to my cunning plan to get you outside and spend time together without anybody else around!"   She winks playfully and giggles.   "Nya?"   "Yes, I'm afraid I  did  rather take advantage of you showing up, I'm sorry."   Asami pets the cat a few times in apology.  The cat, meanwhile, reaches out a paw and tries to pat at Miyuki's face inquisitively.   "Nyrran!"   "I think she likes you."    Good, now just change the 'she' to 'I', and...     You're not helping.

[User]
 "Uwah!  D-don't let it scratch me!"

Miyuki takes a sudden step back, then blushes and sheepishly runs her fingers through her hair.

 "S-sorry.  Heh.  I'm n-not good with animals.  I, uh, didn't get out much."

[User] "Oh?  But that's such a shame!"   Asami pulls her ponytail over one shoulder for the cat to play with and blushes a little.   "If you'd like, I'll help you get out more, like today and the end of last month.  There's nothing wrong with staying inside and doing the things you like if it's what you prefer, but it might be nice."   She looks around to see if she's missed anything that could serve as a clue to the cat's origins.   "So, onward to... ah... somewhere with missing cat posters then?"

[User]
 Miyuki shakes her head in a hurry.   "N-no, no, I, uh, shouldn't just s-stay inside all day.  I'd l-love to go out with you now and then,"  she says, completely oblivious of her word choice.

 "S-so anyways... um, maybe we should look around the neighborhood near wherever you found it.  Maybe it didn't go to far from where it lives... assuming it lives anywhere at all."

[User] Asami takes in a small breath and closes her eyes briefly, waiting for the sudden flutter in her heart to cease.    You always know just what to say, even though you don't...   "R-right.  Well, she was up in the tree by one of the windows to the dorm, like I mentioned, that's why I had her in there to begin with.  So I guess the area around here?  Maybe we'll find a collar or something if we check fences and other tight spaces nearby... or we could see if someone recognizes her..."   She bites her lip and glances down at the cat.   "Then again, maybe you were right before.  Since this is already near where she's probably from, if we just let her go, she'll find her way home anyway.  It's not like the weather is bad.   I guess I really did just want to search for her home as an excuse... "   "Mraa."   "Hehe... silly cat, you're just glad for the affection."   We're not so different, are we?  Is that why...

[User]
 "W-well, I guess it wouldn't hurt to look for a little while.  If we don't f-find anything, we can just let it go."

Miyuki takes a few steps, stops, and turns to Asami.

 "So w-where do we start?"

[User] After about 30 minutes of searching, Asami is nearly ready to just stop, sit down, and pet the cat for a while before letting it run off to find its own way.  She voices this opinion to Miyuki to to see what the latter thinks and asks if she's found anything.

[User] Miyuki shakes her head.   "I've got n-nothing.  If you found it up in a t-tree, it's probably an outside cat anyways... you helped it down, at least, so let's just let it go."

[User] "You're probably right.  Be good, neko-chan!"   Asami scritches the cat behind the ears a few more times and sets her down.   "Meu?"   "Yes, I know you enjoyed our company, but I might see you again!"   She smiles softly and looks to Miyuki as the cat trots over to nuzzle against the latter's feet before hopping onto, then over a fence.   "Not nearly the adventure I'd imagined or hoped for, but I didn't mind it.  Umm..."  She shuffles her feet nervously.   "Could we stay out a little longer?"

[User]
 Miyuki bends down and waves good-bye to the cat.   "S-see you later, kitty cat... or maybe not.  T-take care..."

Standing back up, she steps close enough to Asami that even her soft voice can be easily heard.

 "Yeah... I'd like that.  W-where would you like to go?"

[User] " Anywhere is fine if it's with you...   Erm- I mean..."   Asami blushes, flustered by Miyuki's closeness after having thought over things so much recently.   "Eep.   Sorry. "   How much longer can I stand to hesitate?   "I hope you know... I really value your friendship.  A lot.   So I'm a bit afraid. "

[User] "Well, I really value your f-friendship, too,"  Miyuki begins, with her eyes fixed shyly on her feet.   "I feel... h-hopeful about the future, for the first time in years.  But... w-what do you mean, you're afraid?"

[User] "I mean... you... maybe you noticed, I'm n-not as flirty with you, as with some of the others...  It's because I'm afraid of what you'd think, of putting you off.  I mean... that is to say..."    This is painful to watch.  Just kiss her already and see how she reacts!    Asami looks absolutely terrified as she gingerly reaches over to take one of Miyuki's hands with both of hers.   "I... I t-think that I...  l-l-like you? "

[User]
 Miyuki looks up at Asami, down at her hand, and up at Asami again, and she starts to flush red.

 "Wh-wh-wh... what do you m-mean?"  she stammers.   "I - I mean, you're my friend, of course I l-like you!  T-that's what you mean, r-right?  Or do you mean, um... a d-different kind of like?"

[User] Asami lets out a nervous giggle, her hands quivering and heart pounding.   "I-I mean...  maybeadifferentkind. "

[User]
 Miyuki gulps.   "S-so this is - I mean, you're... you're c-confessing to me?!"

She takes her free hand and lays it over her cheek, as if to cover herself.

 "Oh... Ohhh... I n-need to think about this a bit..."

[User] " Confessing?   I... I guess I am..."   Asami's hold falters and her hands drop away as she stumbles backward into a tree, which she leans on.    It's not an outright rejection at least!  ... Is this how all of those strangers feel when they try to... no, they have nothing to lose, no friendship to risk altering or making awkward.  It couldn't possibly be the same.    She breathes shallowly, completely unable to calm her rapid heart.   "O-of course, think about... this.   It's so much easier to say now that it isn't a secret.  I like you. "   Saying it again makes her smile even through the panic.

[User]
 Miyuki slowly walks over, slumps down against the tree at Asami's side, and looks over her shoulder at her.

 "Uh... Asami, I... h-how do I say this..."   She wrings her hands nervously, and sighs.   "I d-dunno if I like you in  that  way.   L-like, y'know, a sexy one. "

[User] "T-that's okay.  I u-understand."   Asami gives a quick twitching of a nod.   "I-it's okay if you d-don't, as long as..."   She looks over at her friend with worried eyes.   "I-if you decide you d-don't... you'll still be my f-friend, right?"   It's still okay, everything will be okay, it has to be.

[User]
 Miyuki reaches over, and clumsily grabs at Asami's hand.

 "Hey.  Y-you're one of my best friends.  Just because I'm, y'know,  k-kinda not that into other g-girls  doesn't change anything you've d-done for me."

She finally takes a breath.

 "P-please tell me I didn't just mess up a line that c-cool...!"

[User] Asami can't help but let a tiny breath of a laugh escape.   "You didn't mess up anything."   Contrary to the smile she's trying to force now, her mood shows by the fact that she's now clinging to the hand that's taken hers as if her life depends on it.    She... she's only my friend because of what I've done for her?    She turns away quickly to hide her face, shaking.

[User]
 Miyuki gives Asami's hand a nervous squeeze.

 "Y-you okay?  I mean, I know that's p-probably not the response you were h-hoping for, right...?"   She sighs.   "I, uh... l-look, I'm no good at s-saying this stuff, but... I really do c-care about you, alright?"

[User] Everything feels like it's spiraling down so fast... from 'think about it' to 'unsure' to 'surely not'... to implying her motives for being my friend were...   "Why?"   Asami whimpers, still keeping her face turned away.   "Why do you care?  Is it really just... 'what I've done'?"

[User]
 Miyuki shrinks back, a nervous sweat beading on her face.

  Crap.  Crap crap crap.  I screwed it up, I totally screwed it up!  This was my big chance, and I - oh, craaaap...

Taking a breath, she speaks up again.   "Wh-what are you talking about?  Y-you spend time with me.  You talk with me.  You make me feel like I'm not a l-loser.  I'm allowed to c-care about you, right...?"

[User] Time... care... how someone makes you feel... I see...    Asami slowly turns her head toward Miyuki, not bothering to hide her tear-streaked face anymore, and glances up, looking into her eyes.  A faint glow indicative of the emotional torment necessary for a persona invocation is visible from this close, and appears to be neither growing nor fading.   "You... you're allowed to feel however you like."   But... am I?   "Just... please make sure it's for the right reasons."

[User]
 The sight of Asami's tears and the tone of her voice just make Miyuki wring her hands even harder.

 "S-sorry.  I'm sorry.  Whatever I did to make you c-cry, I'm so sorry!  I...  D-dammit!   I don't know what to d-do!  Just t-tell me we're still friends, please..."

[User]
 So this is the pain that comes with friendship, the reality of the emotions, the risk of never knowing why...
Asami slowly reaches her arms around Miyuki and pulls her close into a tight hug, resting her chin on the girl's shoulder.
  So this is what one will do for another to spare them the pain.
 "Of course, Yuki-chan.  We're still friends."
  I love you.
 "We'll always be friends."
  That's why I have to lie to you.
 "I'll be okay... I just need time."
  To keep your heart safe and untainted.
 "Please... please just let me hold you for a little while?"
  I understand now, Akemi.  I'm sorry I couldn't keep my promise.
Asami shivers, the tears flowing again.  She makes sure as well as she can not to let her friend see.
  I see it now.  So this is my despair....


[User]
 1:37 PM

The last day of her ordinary life.

Or is it?

Lauren Falkner dully washes her hands under a tepid stream of water, rubbing away grime and caked off dust from another job. Her surroundings might have impressed her once upon a time… But now it was just as gray as the murky water flowing down the drain. The restrooms of the Empire State Building, like much of the rest of the opulent building, had been designed to evoke awe and envy, to remind the little people just how high a person could reach, a star on the horizon for them to continually strive to grasp.

She had been brought in that day to perform routine annual maintenance, a lengthy job that kept her busy for a few days as she went floor by floor, making sure that each system was cleaned, faulty wiring replaced, and the system as a whole was secure. Many people didn’t expect to find a woman in an electrician job, but her father had impressed upon her the knowledge of how much people will pay to avoid doing unpleasant work such as this by themselves. He had raised her to be a doer, and she had shown a flare of aptitude for the trade.

The lights suddenly flicker, causing her to glance up in annoyance. Hadn’t she just finished the maintenance for this floor? It shouldn’t be-

A shuddering tremor races through the floor, knocking her off-balance, forced to grab the lip of the counter to steady herself. An earthquake?

With a chill feeling of horror, realization dawns on her as echoing screams reach her ears, gunfire cracking off within the building… Something terrible is happening.

[User]
 No. Gunshots? And a...bomb? No. This...what...  Lauren's mind is whirling as she tries to stave off panic.  This...is really happening. Stay calm. Focus on what's next. Find an exit.  Seemingly of its own will, her body reaches down to grab her tool-bag. She could run just as fast carrying it, and it...might...possibly...come in handy.

The water is still running. But why did she care? With a strange feeling, she twists the handles and shuts off the stream. Such an ordinary act. Taking a deep breath, she heads for the door of the restroom.

The gunshots seem to be far away enough. Not on this floor. At least, so she hopes.  Focus. Find an exit.  Cautiously opening the door, Lauren scans the hallway. It seems relatively safe. Deceivingly so? She hopes not. There were other people. Somewhere. She didn't know, but they would be out here soon. Or following whatever office protocol they had.

Visualizing the floor-plans in her head, she again checks the hallways for any danger.  Stairs would be ideal. I'm not  that  high up...

[User]
 The hallways are empty as she slowly skirts down the sides, wary of danger... All is silent now, no more gun shots or screams ring trough the firmament of the Empire State building.

She finds a stairwell, descending down floor after floor after floor... But finding herself at an impasse. The stairs below have been destroyed, some explosive twisting them apart into wreckage thirty feet below. To her right is the door, hanging off of one hinge.

[User]
 Lauren's frustration is clearly visible in her expression as she surveys the wreckage. Well, this had probably been one of those explosions. Jumping thirty feet down--onto sharp, twisted fragments of metal, no less--would be idiotic. More than idiotic, if that was possible. Though maybe she could do something with that door...

Then again, jumping down thirty feet with a fire door under her would be just as stupid. No way to hold on very well, and she'd probably end up breaking something. Probably something inside of her.

At least...the Empire State Building  had  to have more than one flight of stairs. And emergency equipment somewhere, which might have something she could use to get down. She listens carefully at the half-demolished door for any indications of danger on that floor...

 Where  is  everybody?


[User]
 To future historians of Telluris, that it took so long for diplomats from Tzalteclan to travel to Maur would seem an oddity.  The two nations, similar in so many ways, seemed natural allies.  And perhaps they would have been, if not for the black gulf of unexplored territory separating the two from easy travel.  But now, that gulf was but a memory, and for the first time a scaled member of the family of the Teotlkan walked the ashen road towards Maurshael.  He was a formidable man, standing more than six feet tall and wrapped in decadent crimson silks adored with gold, aligning disturbingly well with the Unmarked that escorted him.  He was Djau, one of Senusret's last sons, denied the position of Tlapepentli simply for his youth and the terrible experience now expected of the Scales of the Dragon.  With him he carried gifts of gold, of livefire, and of ngath philungf, secured in iron chests drawn by teams of roaring turtles.  As the city gates came into sight, the procession slowed, and Djau rode forwards upon a horse of fine Ashenian stock to address the guards.

  "Greetings!  I am Djau, prince of Tzalteclan!  I come seeking an audience with your mighty queen."

[User]
 The guards looked the prince up and down, assessing him and his troupe.  "You and your people may enter. The palace is, well, you can probably see it from here. The large ominous looking building up the road"  the guard said as he pointed the way for them.

The palace itself was, as the guard said, quite ominous and dark. Shadowed by the ashen skies of Maur, the grand palace of the Dragon-Queen was crafted from stone permanently stained with the ash that fell upon ground frequently, as well as being decorated with twisted spires made of deathiron that struck up abruptly here and there, almost as if to pierce the sky itself.

Dragon-Queen Kara Volshevrin was tiredly looking out upon the city from the balcony attached to the royal bed chambers that jutted out from the highest point of the palace.  "Sometimes I wish I could've had a pair of quiet boys instead of girls who eternally squabble, eh Jowan?"  she muttered to her husband who approached her silently from behind. Jowan looked startled for a moment before putting his arms around his wife's stomach with a smile.  "One day they'll settle down, my queen. One day..."  he murmured, lifting an arm up to stroke her hair softly while she relaxed in his arms.

[User]
 Djau bowed to the guards in thanks before striding confidently through the gates and towards the dark palace of the Dragon Queen.  Behind him, his retinue unfurled banners bearing the leering golden dragon of Tzalteclan, taking up position behind their prince in a procession worthy of his heritage.  However, they came to a halt at the threshold of the palace, standing at attention as Djau made his way inside.

In the throneroom of the Dragon Queen, Djau waited for the royal presence to make itself known.  The clinking of the golden bangles adorning his belt echoed in the silent air, but they were the only sound to escape the Tzaltec prince.

[User]
 Jowan looked out at the city and saw a slight disturbance at the gates.  "My queen, I believe we have some visitors... And they're coming to the palace"  he said with a slightly surprised look on his face. Kara looked up and saw the golden dragon of Tzalteclan. As she saw it, a broad grin spread across her face as she shrugged herself from Jowan's embrace, straightened her back and strode back into the palace.
 "I must prepare myself for the delegates who no doubt shall soon be waiting for an audience, Jowan. As much as I would like to have you there, I need you to keep the twins out of trouble and make sure they do not disrupt us"  Kara said with all traces of tiredness gone from her voice.
Jowan looked slightly disgruntled but bowed to her.  "Yes, my queen"  he said stiffly, and strode off to entertain their daughters and make sure they wouldn't cause any trouble.

 Several minutes later...

Kara strode into the throneroom, adorned with a tunic sewn of crimson and shadow, the royal colours of Maur, as well as pants that were lengthy enough to go all the way down to her ankles, at just such a tightness as to retain full movement. Upon her feet were light leather boots, with twin dagger hilts peeking out of the top of them. The Dragon-Queen was no fool after all, and rarely trusted anyone, even one who came for diplomatic talks.

She noticed the prince as she walked in, and surveyed him with golden eyes.  "An interesting creature..."  she thought with a hint of curiosity. She walked silently up to the prince and bowed deeply.
 "It is an honour to receive one from the Tzaltec Empire"  she murmured with a light smile playing upon her lips.  "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

[User]
 As Queen Kara entered the throne room, Djau's lips parted in a wide smile, revealing his white, predatory teeth.  Spreading his arms in a bow to match any royal courtier, he listened to the queen's greeting before replying in a proud basso.

  "The pleasure is mine, oh Ashen Queen.  The terrible beauty of your land is only matched by your own majestic visage."

The prince's smile did not waver as he gave his scandalous compliments, but as his voice trailed off his expression grew troubled.

  "I judge it all the more tragic, then, that you have been treated with such disrespect.  I come at the will of my father the Teotlkan, to bring you the recognition you have so sorely lacked.  Tzalteclan wishes to gain Maur's friendship, and should you desire it, to vouchesafe the vengeance you are so cruelly denied."

[User]
 Kara settled upon the throne behind her as she listened to the words of the prince. The throne itself was large and imposing, forged completely out of deathiron itself with jagged shapes protruding from its top. As uncomfortable as it looked, Kara sat upon it as if it were the most warm and comfortable chair in the world.

 "Vengeance, you say? There is only one I seek vengeance against, and they have powerful allies, as well as power of their own... As my mother found out"  Kara said with a slight underlying anger in her tone, an intrigued look upon her face.
 "Also... Why would Tzalteclan seek to gain our friendship? We are a small queendom, even with our recent expansions into the regions north of Pomequi. What could we offer to a mighty Empire?"  she said with a slightly confused look upon her face.

[User]
 Djau straightened as Kara sat, clasping his arms behind his back.

  "It is true that Alzeroth has the might of Hurosha at their backs, good queen.  But Hurosha has long been an enemy of Tzalteclan, and their madness in allowing the Watcher to continue its rampage has done nothing but seal their doom.  But you are correct, taking our shared vengeance is not reason enough."

He stepped forward, lowering his voice to a whisper.

  "But I am sure you know, good queen, of the doom that lurks in the deep desert?  The Kazul are coming, and Tzalteclan would hold fast what areas it can against their storm.  You and your people are faithful of the Dragon, though you know him by a different name, and neither the Teotlkan nor the Xiuhtlatec would see Maur devoured while the west bickers and stagnates."

[User]
 Kara clasps her hands together, a thoughtful expression on her face.  "I have heard of these Kazul creatures before, but rarely. I have also heard of the destruction they will wreak when they emerge from the desert"  she murmured softly, a worried expression on her face.

She straightened up slightly, a piercing expression in her gaze as she looked directly into Djau's eyes.  "But what of Niskovia? I am sure you know of my alliance with them. I've only kept it so long because I need the resources and support, as well as the fact that if they were to so wish, they could crush my people underneath them like so many bugs..."  she said with a voice full of frustration.

[User]
 Djau's head tilted at the queen's response.

  "But could they really, good queen?  If Maur stood alone, perhaps.  But Niskovia is a land long untroubled by war, a land whose only major campaign was to hold an uncontested region in the Sunset War.  They may be mighty in the West, but when compared to the might of Tzalteclan?  To the might of the Concordat?  Niskovia is but a paper tiger before a storm.  You say they offer you the support of their resources, their empire.  But Tzalteclan is an empire as well, one far larger and with far more powerful friends.  Friends who lack the squeamishness of House Niskovich."

[User] Kara looked thoughtful as she linked her hands and laid back in her throne.  "So I would become a vassal of the Tzaltec Empire? And one day, once we've sealed off the desert and protected ourselves against the Kazul, I could seek vengeance upon Alzeroth for what they've done?"  she said with narrowed eyes. You could almost hear the gears ticking throughout her mind as she thought over the proposal.

[User]
 Djau smiled, not the friendly smile with which he'd greeted the queen, but a predator's smile.  A razored smile.

  "Good queen, pledge yourself to Tzalteclan and we shall bring such a reckoning upon Alzeroth as to wipe its name from the annals of history and sanctify the honor of Maur in Alzerite blood."

[User] Kara nodded, replying with an almost evil grin alighting on her face,  "Let it be known that Maur no longer bows their heads to Elven lords. The Dragon beckons, and we will not disappoint him" .


[User]
 This tale is one of adventure and intrigue, of quests and treasures.

So, like most such tales, it all begins in a tavern. . .

In the center of New Hope lies The Goat's Head, where the mead is sweet but the gals are sweeter . . . Or at least that's what the sign says.

In actuality, the only "gal" that works at the Goat's Head is Gretta.  Gretta is the sixty five year old human woman that runs the place with her Fey husband Alby.

As usual, Alby's off in the gutter somewhere, so Gretta happens to be manning the bar this particular evening.

The smell of cheap ales and pine smoke fill the air of the little inn and the hum of drunken conversation bounces around the room.

A mixed group of Fey and Human boys sit towards the back, boasting of women and trying to top each others stories while a team of Kobold stonemasons sit slumped over the bar, grumbling to one another about their workday.

Across the room, near the entrance, a Fey guardsmen in chainmail leans against the wall, eying the crowd.

All in all, it's an average day for the Goat's Head. Or, well, it was until a man they call Repeat walked in.

Repeat is short, plump Kobold that got his name because he always had the latest gossip to repeat.

Well, Tonight Repeat was in rare form. He skipped his way towards the bar and slapped a silver piece down on the hardwood.

 I'mma need a double tonight, Gretta! I'm gonna be rich!

Gretta merely rolled her eyes and poured him a shot. Repeat came through with all sorts of wild tales, so this wasn't so unusual, but he just wouldn't let it go.

 I'm tellin' ya, Gretta! The magistrate says he's gonna give  five hundred  gold pieces to whoever finds that boy!

This got some of the other patron's attention. A few of the other Kobolds started asking questions in Draconic, and some Few boys wandered up from the back to learn more.

Soon all the questions ran together in a loud buzz, before Gretta had enough and started yelling.

 Look, y'all! It ain't polite to talk about the magistrate's business, and we all know that none of you are stepping foot outside that wall!

She looked back down at the bar and went back to pouring drinks.

 Besides, It ain't right to humor his wild fantasies.

Before long, things settled back down to normal, but what had been said had been said, and a hint of tension lay in the air.

[User]
 Ingvarr sat at the bar, laughing with a couple of mates as he swigged an ale. He ignored the kobold as he walked in. Like as not, he was spreading more scurrilous rumours or scandalous gossip. But not today. Today, he was all aflutter about some bounty. As if the rotund little creature could ever manage to collect on it. And oooh, ahhhh, the prize money was a whole five hundred gold pieces. That caught his companions ears, and they headed over to join the group around the kobold, but he just sat back and took another gulp of his ale. Why, the sword at his hip cost near that much.

But then, as the commotion began to build up, a voice cut through the babble.   "...we all know that none of you are stepping foot outside that wall!"

Well, it was true. No-one left the wall, not except for the foolish and desperate. He had no fear of what lay outside, of course; it just wasn't done. But for someone to say it outright like that fair riled him. It was almost like a dare, and he had never been one to turn aside from a challenge to his pride. That, and the drink, may be held accountable for his actions.

Rising, he spoke into the silence that followed the innkeeps speech. Even mellowed by the ale, his voice was hard and strong.   "That a fact?"   Jumping to stand on his barstool, he spoke out over the crowd.   "Come on, lads! Let's prove old Gretta wrong for a change! My blood is up and I'll no' stand such a slur. If any man among ye has the courage, follow me! The outside beckons!"

[User]
 "Good luck with that."   he shouted after the lunatic who just spoke up. Leave the expeditions beyond the wall to the professionals, soldiers trained for that very thing, taking another swig from his glass.

 Spoiler

Someone needs to drag the SCIENTIST! out :P

[User]
 Jack sat quietly in by the bar in the tavern, idly rolling a silver coin through her fingers. She had come here to raise some more funds for her goal, but found the patrons too mean or poor or informed about her good fortune to engage her in any games of chance.

Her ears perked up at the kobold rumourmonger's words, interesting indeed.

She rolled her eyes at the drunk swordsman's bravado, ignoring his rabble-rousing. He and his friends were welcome to get themselves killed in the wild without proper planning, but when she went, she would go under Fharlagn's hand.

She flicked her silver coin to Gretta,  "I'll get this one"  she turned to the kobold, smiling,  "You look like you could use the drink"

[User]
 Sit down, boy! You're drunk!  Gretta called to Ingvarr as she caught the coin.

Repeat looks up at Jack and gives her a toothy grin before guzzling down the drink.  Thank ye! Thank ye! I'll repay the favor as soon as I'm rollin' in the gold!

[User]
 Artoria sat at the corner table which often found her presence, nursing a glass of wine from early in the night. Her piercing eyes scanned the room, looking to see who may take arms in the situation. Her sword lay sheathed on the table in front of her, making it clear she did not desire company.

 "How old?"  Is all she says, with an air of authority and conviction as she stands and takes up her sword. She looks as though she would battle the darkness itself should it come to that.

[User]
 Jack cast a weather eye at the woman bearing her sword, this one was dangerous.

She mustered her best smile and opened her arms wide in a gesture of welcome.  "A most pertinent question. Indeed, any information you could give us on this missing boy would be most appreciated. We wouldn't want your rise to fortune to go unsung, would we?"

[User]
 From an open door leading to the kitchens a small head pops out belonging to a inquisitive kobold. Svar had worked the last week at the Goats Head and was seriously doubting if that is what his walk-about was supposed to be about but he had to pay for his keep in the city. The few other jobs he had gotten ranged from humiliating to boring or had an odd combination of the two. This, cleaning the kitchen, was undoubtably much better but he felt he was wasting his time.
The commotion had him excited, he had overheard bits and pieces but now looked straight at a brute of a man exclaiming he would go beyond the wall.

Svar couldn't contain himself and right then and there, filled with wanderlust and sense of adventure and not to mention a deep hatred for scrubbing pans, he spoke up.

 'Ill join you! Ill go!'  He shouts into the room at Ingvarr.

[User] Turning to Gretta he asks,   "....How many suicidal idiots are in here today?"   slightly confused as to the number of people declaring that they would go past the wall.

[User]
 Repeat looks up at the two humans who were suddenly showing him a little attention.  The boy's at least twenty. He went outside near a month ago, and never returned. The money goes to whoever brings back the boy, alive or dead.  A look of uneasiness crosses Repeat's face, until he remembers the money once more and goes back to grinning like a child.

Gretta gives James a sad look,  It just goes to show how bad times are gettin'. When reasonable men start doin' unreasonable things for money . . .

[User]
 ".....Have you seen Jane? I have the hankering to make her fifty gold poorer."   he asks, retrieving a scroll from his robes, taking another swig.

 Spoiler: OOC

I'm taking the invention of calculus story :PP Making people up

[User]
 Artoria steps up onto the table, her arms open wide as if in invitation to the townspeople around her.  "Is it so unreasonable to do something other than cower behind these walls from an enemy we have never seen? Is it unreasonable to want more for ourselves than the fear of the open sky?"  She steps forward off the table and hits the ground roughly with her feet.

 "I say it's  unreasonable  for these men to cower in the comforts of the wall while a boy travels in the open like the men of old. I for one will not let a childish fear of the dark keep me from my reward. Who else will follow?"  She calls openly to the others, trying to goad them into going with her.

[User]
 The Fey Guardsman stands from his resting place against the wall. He rolls his eyes, stretches, and lets out a groan. He was getting too old for this.

He had heard many boastful drunks in here before, and he always took pleasure in calling them out.

After putting on his "serious face", he strided towards Artoria.

 Miss, get down from the table. Perhaps you've had too much to drink, but you can't go around saying such things. You're liable to start a riot! If, in the morning when you've sobered up, you still feel like venturing out into the wild, I'll open the doors for you myself.

[User]
 Svar, who had briefly disappeared into the kitchens, now steps into the tavern sporting a chainshirt covering his torso. He has a sack hanging over his shoulder and a handaxe dangling from his belt. The most prolific change is that the towel he was washing dishes with is now a repeater crossbow held in his right hand. In his left he holds a tribal looking longspear. Most of his items are covered in crude runes painted on in earthy tones of red and yellow. Where he has stashed these things for the last week is anyone's guess.
He sees Artoria on the table and climbs one himself to address Artoria from the other side of the bar, who seems to be bothered by some guardsman or other. Svar shouts to try and overshout the guardsman and get the formidable womans attention.

 'Svar Feather-foot of the Bad-Moon, at your service! Hunting and tracking is what I do! For the honor of my tribe I accept your job offer and hereby pledge my services to accompany you beyond the wall and help in any way I can to bring the boy back!'

He takes a bow like he has seen the bards frequenting the place do after their speeches and hops off the table. He looks at Gretta as he does so and adds a powerful  'I quit!!!'  before he lands.


[User]
 A small caravan of four vehicles travels across a wind-swept savannah along a rough, bumpy path.

The first is a personal coach, occupied by the caravan master, the director, and the latter's scribe.

The second is a cargo cart, carrying only a few supplies.

The fourth is another stagecoach filled with armed guards. To some, it seems like an excessive number of guards for such a small convoy, but the director nervously insisted that this is dangerous territory.

But the third vehicle, a large stagecoach, is the strangest. It contains a group of mismatched persons, including a pirate, a former solider, a wizard, a noble, a few hermits, and several rats.

After a few days of travel, some are starting to feel stir-crazy in the confined space, but are comforted by the knowledge that they will reach their destination in a few hours. Until then, there's more sitting.

[User]
 Lorkhan hummed to himself as he poured out his waterskin and used Shape Water to form a small bowl shape before freezing the outside of the water to create a small, round bucket of water.

 "Anyone else bored?"

[User]
 Delmirev Nelsix, who preferred to go by the nickname 'Crimsonblood' or simply 'Crimson', sat restlessly in the tight conditions. His claustrophobia was kicking in and it was angering the dragonborn, causing him to growl in a very deep tone occasionally. Otherwise, the warrior remained silent.

Crimson closed his eyes in order to more easily listen to conversation around him and to help keep his claustrophobic feelings in check.

[User] Atch sits quietly in the back of the coach, otherwise ignoring the other passengers. Between his fingers, small orbs of light dance back and forth. When he tires of that, he switches to mirages of tiny scale battles, and odd looking monstrosities. He smiles to himself as the images fade away.  "Bored? No, no, no. Bored is what happens when you have nothing to do. There is always something to do!"  he chortles quietly under his breath.  "Though I suppose I am quite ready to arrive. My stomach is growling almost as loud as the swordswinger!"  Atch points to the dragonborn.  "I'm Atch, by the way. Just your friendly street magician."

[User] Kerrigan mulls against a window. Occasionally taking swigs of rum from a flask on her hip as she mindlessly rolls a gold piece between her fingers. Her eyes wander to each member in the caravan. She kept watching Crimson as the caravans confinement took its tole on his psyche  "Oi, ain't got a taste fer traveling do ya boy-o?"  she said with a smirk, her eyes fixating for a moment on the dragonborn before taking another sip of her rum.

[User]
 Vincent focuses on grooming and watching his rats; the tight confines aren't much of an issue, but he worries that some oaf will trod on a tail, or kick one of his pets. He'd run out of treats; hopefully they would stop soon so he could prepare more.

Thankfully, none of the other passengers had had the audacity to complain about the noise or smell of his rats, or to suggest he box them for the trip. A glower had sufficed for the loadmaster, but Vincent doubted it would work with the toughs riding with him.

[User]
 Any chance of further conversation or boredom is interrupted by the sound of an explosion. The entire wagon trembles, and even through the wood paneling, a wave of heat can be barely felt. The reverberations of the explosion is soon overtaken with the cries of injured men and frightened horses.

There are two doors to the coach you are in: one facing the directing from which the sounds seem to be originating, and one that faces away. Both have windows with drawn curtains.

[User] Atch's eyes grow wide in surprise as his illusions vanish and he falls to the floor. Scrambling, he climbs up to his feet.  "What was that?"  he exclaims with more than a little panic in his voice. He rips open the closest curtains, facing the direction of the explosion.

[User] Vincent quickly blows the "come, hide" commands into his whistle; better to keep the pack close and safe until he knows more about the situation. Rats mob towards him, climbing into the pockets sewn for them.

[User] Kerrigan's grin fades as the explosion hits the caravan. As the caravan shakes her feet plant themselves to the floor, accustomed to the rocking of a ship at sea. She retrieves her hand crossbow and rests her hand on her rapier.  "Looks like we got ourselves some company mates"  she says as she moves to the side of the door opposite of the explosion.

[User] If Crimson wasn't in a foul mood before, he definitely is now. Keeping control of his panic, the warrior grips his greatsword and moves to a position next to the door closest to the explosion, ready to either engage something entering through it or ready to charge out of it himself.

[User] Looking out the window, Atch sees several figures standing behind a ridge. All are armed and armored, three with bows and the fourth with an orb, with which he is preparing to cast another spell.

[User]
 Atch makes a soft, almost squawk-like sound and throws up his hands. Outside, an ear-piercing scream erupts from right next to the group of figures. Without watching to see if it stopped the caster, Atch scurries to the other side of the cabin and opens the other door.  "We'd best make ways out of here,"  he looks back at the others.  "Anyone? Come on. I'm not certain how long that sound will distract them, if it does at all. I'm not sticking around to find out."  He grins wickedly and then hops out of the carriage on the other side. As he lands, he turns back to the one gripping his sword.  "There's 4 of them, Swordswinger. And they have bows and magic. You won't reach them. Come on, it's better we move and get a better position."

 Spoiler: Actions
Cast minor illusion, create illusory sound. DC15 Investigation to determine that the sound is an illusion, and it goes away.

[User]
 Crimsonblood snaps a growl at Atch.  "First off, don't call me 'swordswinger', little one. Second, that little distraction you just caused could give us the edge we need. We can take them!"

Crimson is fully prepared to charge into the battle, but he isn't foolish enough to do so without the support everyone else. He holds off for now, waiting to see what will happen.

[User] Kerrigan chuckles at the word swordswinger, her face regaining its wry grin from before.  "Aye, this is 'o course why we're here, I ain't giving up so easily!"  Kerrigan moves to open the door away from the ambushers, hand crossbow at the ready as she departs from behind the caravan to find a comfortable vantage point.

[User] Atch shrugs at the swordswinger.  "Suit yourself, but I'll be over here if you need me."  And he runs around to the side of the carriage.

[User]
 Atch's illusion has indeed distracted the attackers. All of them are looking around, trying to find its source while keeping their bows at the ready.

The rear wagon has been turned into a pile of burning kindling. Bodies of the guards that were riding in it are scattered around it. The sound of a moan indicated that at least one of them is still alive, but the smoke obscures them.

 Spoiler: OOC

The caster investigates the source of the sound.

 (1d20+4)[ 10 ]

Atch and Kerrigan are behind the coach (relative to the attackers). Everyone else is still inside. The attacking party are 60 feet from the front of the coach, but the ridge requires a DC 10 Strength (Athletics) check or an additional 15 feet to go around it.

[User]
 Vince shoulders his way out of the coach (threat side). Pointing at the mage, he blows the "Bite!" command. A small flood of rats sheds from his clothing, Dashing towards the attackers. He then moves to the corner of the coach for partial cover from the archers. With the economical movement of years of practice, he smoothly strings, nocks, draws, and fires an arrow at the mage.

 Spoiler: Motivation
Hoping having rats climbing all over them causes further discomfort and distraction the mage.

The Swarm Dashes towards the mage;

 Spoiler: Swarm's STR check to climb the ridge
 (1d20-1)[ 4 ] ; if successful, mobs over the mage, occupying it's space (Swarm can't attack this turn, IIRC). If not, the Swarm will scramble around the side of the ridge; imagine a stream flowing up against and around the cliff.

 Spoiler: Confirming Action Economy
 Command pet to move into clothing (no action required); Move; Dash Command (Action); Move; Extra Attack. This is my first 5e combat 😁!

 Spoiler: Attack and Damage rolls (if hits)

Attack 1d20+Prof+DEX:  (1d20+6)[ 21 ]

If it hits:
Damage 1d8+DEX=  (1d8+3)[ 6 ]


[User] This is the Roleplay Thread for Anima: Tears of Gai


[User] This is the Roleplay Thread for the Generic Pathfinder Campaign.


[User]
 You wake up in what is clearly some kind of wooden box. Well, damn. You're in the back of what looks like a giant tent.

(Knowledge: local 20+6=26) You realise that you're in the pavilion in the centre of the marketplace. The pavilion is actually mainly for show, although it's used to store things used in events in the market. You doubt that anyone will have serious reason to come here.

You think you might know  3  other pieces of information about the marketplace. You strain your mind to think what they might possibly be...

(Knowledge: Arch and Eng 15+6=21) You note that the pavilion is actually quite well made. It provides adequate protection from the elements for its contents - including you!

You think you might know  2  more useful things about the pavilion's construction. Now, what were they?

And more importantly, what are you going to do?

[User]
 OOC:

 Spoiler

You messaged me right after I left for work. 😛

Um, what do 1-5 say on map?

How do I choose what my 2 other useful things are? Do I need knowledge checks?

Do I see anyone around? Where am I on map?

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC
Sorry!

1 reads "This is a public house, where alcohol abounds. One contestant wakes up in the basement."
2 reads "This house is owned by Jhenna, an elven ranger of some renown. One contestant wakes up in the basement."
3 reads "This is the Thieves' guild hideout. One contestant wakes up in the basement here.
4 reads "This is the town hall, which is used for speeches, musical events, and practically any other gathering one might care to name. One contestant wakes up under the stage."
5 reads "This is the marketplace. One contestant wakes up in the pavilion."

You choose 3 things relevant to K (Local) and 2 to K (Arch and Eng) about the pavilion. You don't need extra checks.

You're in 5.

You're too in a box to see anyone but (Listen 15+0=15) you're fairly confident that no-one else is around.


[User]
 It was a bright day at the Blazing Temple that saw two Avatars of the Lord of Fire arrive, along with one of Dunfel.  Days passed into weeks as Avatars old and new were embraced by the monks and engaged in matters of doctrine with the First Brother.  Eventually, though, Greta was invited to a private audience with the First Brother, to discuss a matter of great import to the faith.

Inside the inner sanctum of the Temple sat First Brother Ramzi, meditating before a brilliant sunburst window.  By his side slightly behind him knelt another high Sister of the Temple, Caterina, one of his closest advisors who had been with him in the struggle against the Bale Horse.  At the arrival of the twice-living Avatar, Sister Caterina stood and gave a friendly bow before tapping Ramzi's shoulder.

 "First Brother, Avatar Greta is here."

[User]
 Ramzi stayed sitting for a moment, opening his eyes from his meditation as he sensed faintly the heat of Greta's presence. In the months since her arrival she had begun to be referred to as the Burning Aspect, though she had been one of the last full Avatars there was no denying her rebirth had changed her and with the arrival of the Jarrish royal children and the still missing Valterran man it was clear the spirit of the Avatar had been split. Ramzi knew what this division meant, but he would need all three Avatar Aspects to prove it. Still, he could speak with the ones he had to explain the truth them now before the ritual was conducted.

Ramzi rose from his cross legged position and turned to look on the visage of Greta. She might have horrified one unprepared or unused to her but to Ramzi she was merely a beautiful fragment of an even more beautiful image that had been shattered. Ramzi looked over at his fellow devout member of the Temple Caterina. The two of them had arrived at the Temple together from the eastern lands as children. They had stood by one another and faced the questioning of the elder First Brother Charles when he still sat as head of the Temple and they had both survived the trials of Cridan's ministry and the trapping of the Bale Horse. There were some in the Temple who referred to her informally as the First Sister for her close relation with Ramzi and while improper the title was not inaccurate. The Temple had not had a First Sister in well over two centuries and the title was an ancient one no longer common to the teachings of the Temple which accented the inheritance of man, but there were many ancient rites and works that Ramzi as First Brother sought to uncover and return to the teachings of the Lord.

"Avatar Greta, thank you for coming. I know your life has been consumed with the Dunfel, our valiant protectors and chosen warriors of the Lord and the tales of your martial aptitude are well chronicled in our scrolls. Still, while the defense of the Faith is of great importance of greater importance is the clarity of the Faith's teachings and of the doctrine that guides us. You well know the Avatar has for centuries served as the sole focal point of the Lord's presence on the material. In your first life you experienced the force which the Lord exerted to return His shattered pieces to one form in yourself when prodded by the mad Radurjic King Tendaji. You have heard of the fiery consumption of Elwyn at the revelation of the Blazing Aspect that was trapped within the devil Hushyarr. Yet now you live in the same Temple as the blessed Adylla whose crown grows with the light of the Lord's favor and neither are destroyed."

Ramzi walked towards Greta and held out his hand to rest it on the woman's shoulder, "I believe it is a sign from our Lord. A sign to discover a new truth of His being. If I am right it may prove ground shaking for the Faith. Tell me Greta, what do you feel as you stand before me now? You are unique among the three Lord Chosen in that you have experienced the path of the Avatar before. Tell me, does this time feel different?"


[User]
 We begin with this. The small hamlet of Barrow's Edge has put out fliers seeking adventurer's to help the town. The advert doesn't have a whole lot of useful information. It doesn't mention the specifics of a reward, only that there is one. Most of all it doesn't specify exactly what the trouble is. It seems the only way to get more information is to check it out. So- each of you, is on the well worn trail that leads to Barrow's Edge.

 The dirt road you travel shows signs of regular use. There
 are few weeds and fresh grooves show the frequent passage of
 wagons. The road winds though moderately forested land.
 Somewhere up ahead, you hear the sound of battle.

 As you Crest a rise in the road,you see a fight raging ahead. A
 merchant's wagon lies on its side, its horses dead or scattered.
 Several elves and goblins lay dead, while a few of each
 continue to battle (many more goblins than elves still remain).

OOC:

 Spoiler

There is still time to change your other persona if you need to before intervening.
Decided it would be best that you could change since you aren't ones being ambushed.

As it comes time to roll initiative the last elf and a few goblins are struck down. Roll initiatives as you can write in a little of what you would be doing before the sounds of battle and as you make your approach.

After you roll, I'll post map and we will begin.

[User]
 The Burning Blade

As Lydia catches sight of the battle, she cries out to the others,  "Quickly!"

 Spoiler: OOC
Starting in Lydia's combat role. Once the others have responded, she will charge the goblins and attack. On her following turn, she'll use a move action to start her Battle Dance Bardic Performance before attacking.
Initiative:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ]

[User]
 A small little wagon slowly approaches the crossing. Inside Rosalyn hears the sounds of battles and ponders, there might be people in need. She puts on her mask, ready for action, they might pay for being rescues. After changing into The Fire Vixen, she climbs on the roof of her wagon and aims for the first green goblin bugger she can see.

 Spoiler: OOC
So starting in social, then switching to vigilante.

Initiative:  (1d20+4)[ 10 ]

[User]
 Hearing the sound of battle, Cutler readies his bow, and gets in position to fire at the goblins.

 Spoiler: OOC
Starting in social, trying to support with bow until we get closer to support with spells and flanking.

Initiative:  (1d20+3)[ 18 ]

[User]
 "Well."  She huffed.  "Typical."  Readying her hammer and sliding her mask down onto her face, Eliza charged directly into the closest goblin, brandishing her weapon. Hopefully their presence could turn the battle's favour.

 Spoiler: OOC
Starting in vigilante guise
Initiative:  (1d20+4)[ 22 ]

[User]
 OOC: Sorry for the lag, I was busy with stuff yesterday.

Map:
 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets...8Ho/edit#gid=0
 As you guys enter, you notice there are 20 javelins covering the field surrounding area of where the elves lay.

 Spoiler

Please go ahead and count your move starting from any of the 'start' squares, even if that would allow for characters "starting" from the same space... Try to give me a good idea of where you're moving in relation to there so I can update the map appropriately.

The last elf guard is slain as you get there by the goblins, you don't see any merchants at the moment. But there are a phrethla of dead from the battle.

They don't notice you yet so they are unaware so you go first.

[User]
 Observing the battle field from, The Fire Vixen realizes the goblins are too far to aim for their vital spots. She jumps off her wagon and moves in closer, takes and aim, ignites an flame arrow and shoots.

 Spoiler: Actions
I start at B9, move to H8.

Attack  (1d20+4)[ 12 ]  Damage  (1d8+1)[ 8 ]  +  (1d6)[ 3 ]  Hidden Strike

[User]
 Burning Blade charges in, but stops short of actually engaging any goblins, preferring to cast a spell upon herself first.

 Spoiler: OOC
Start at B10; move to H10
Casting Protection From Evil: +2 deflection bonus to AC and a +2 resistance bonus on saves. Lasts 1 minute/level (1 min).


[User]
 Three days of nonstop rain brought changes to Westgate. At first sight, the only effect was on the outside. Water rushing through the streets managed to wash away all the grime that piled up during the drought. And for most Westgate citizens that was all that happened. However, for those few who were cursed (or blessed) there was more to it. The end of the drought represented the start of another cycle. Another chance to win or lose. Another chance...

A young boy walked through the freshly cleansed streets, his destination was the Senteria dorm. The clouds were starting to clear, being replaced by darkness of nightfall. One drop of rain landed on the boy's had, sending a bolt of electricity through his body. It was strange, and he almost felt something change. However, he didn't really have time to think about it, his new home was right in front of him. The dorm looked bleak, but was big enough, and it had a strange homely feeling to it. That is why the boy didn't wait to be let in. Instead, he opened the door (that was strangely enough not locked) and let himself in. The lighting in the large common room was dim, but he could see it was well furnished and quite large. There was something in this place that made him feel welcome. But his thoughts were soon interrupted by a voice that didn't really sound friendly.
 "Who are you, and what are you doing here?"
The red-haired boy that was coming down the stairs didn't really look happy.

[User]
 Soga is quite surprised at the aggression.

 "I'm Soga, Soga Tareso. I was told I'd move in here after transferring, isn't this the Senteria dorm?

[User]
 "Yes, it is. And if you were polite enough to knock and wait at the door you would be appropriately welcomed."  The boy's face remained stern, but the aggression in his voice was almost gone.
 "You don't barge into someone's home without invitation. The name is Nathan Scott. You should remember it, friends are a little hard to come by here, and you don't want to get on my bad side."

[User]
 "Fair, I suppose. I meant no ill, I had just gotten used to an open-door policy dorm..."

"Anyway, good to meet you. Suppose we're dorm-mates, now?"

[User]
 "Don't apologizes and don't make excuses. That makes you look weak. Acknowledge your mistake and move on, that's the second best thing you can do. This particular incident will become pointless anyway, since you will be granted a dorm key tomorrow morning, and I have no intention of reporting your behavior.
Indeed, we are dorm mates. Your room will be at the end of second floor, and my room is right next to it. You are welcome to visit at any time, provided that you knock first."

[User]
 "Got it, thanks!" ..i think

Without much more option, Soga heads for his room.

[User]
 Soga didn't really get much sleep that night. As soon as he closed his eyes he saw strange and disturbing images. Images that would disappear as soon as he opened his eyes. Furthermore, there was a strange sensation that made him feel uneasy, as if something was trying to burst out from him.
Somewhere in the middle of the night (it was at least past 2 o'clock) there was a knock on his door, followed by Nathan's voice.
 "Tareso, are you awake? Come on, it's time for our initiation. We need to be ready in 10 minutes."

[User]
 "Initiation?"  What the...?

Weirdness aside, Soga needed something to do, since he couldn't sleep, and he was curious. Swiftly changing into proper clothes, he was at his door 4 minutes later.

[User]
 As soon as Soga exited the room, Nathan gave him a surprised look.
 "Not bad for someone woken up in the middle of night."  He said with a smile.  "But we don't have the time to waste, Elisabeth is already waiting for us."
He gave him no time to wait, as he rushed downstairs, motioning the confused Soga to follow him. As they reached the common room Soga could see a blond-haired girl that can only be described as painfully cheerful.
 "This is so amazing. Can you imagine it? After tonight we are going to be full fledged members of Embryon Tribe. I am so hyped. Aren't you?"
Possibly for the first time in his life, Soga realizes there is such a thing as too much enthusiasm.

[User]
 Still, the enthusiasm gets to him, but there's an odd detail...

 "Wait wait wait, the what now? Am I the only one here a few episodes short?

[User]
 Nathan gives Soga a strange look before something clicks in his mind.
 "Well, that makes a lot more sense. Just don't ask stupid questions and try not to faint. You don't want to leave a bad first impression. I will explain everything later."
Shock covers the girl's face as she realizes what is going on.
 "But that can't be. He was transferred to our dorm. He was marked. He IS one of us. How can he not know it?"
 "You know very well that I do not control the selection process. If I did I wouldn't be waiting until now. We just have to help him adjust, and hope that Serph doesn't notice. As long as he can deal with transformation we are fine. It's not like outsiders are expected to be familiar with our internal politics."

[User]
 "Marked?" , asks Soga, as he looks around himself, to no avail.

 "Look, you two, I don't get what's going on, and apparently you do" , he says, now starting to grow irritated.  "But what I do get, is that I have a certain role you hope I play, and I don't think I will until you tell me more about it. For example, you have about 5 minutes to persuade me to go where I must be by then. How's that for a bargain?"

[User]
 "You did notice the mark on the back of your hand, right? That's your Atma mark, a proof you are a tuner. Don't worry, only other tuners can see it. As for your demands, they are pointless. Serph will be here in less then 5 minutes, and we will be tested. Resisting can only lead to failure. Besides, you are not a civilian, and as such you are no longer protected. Embryon don't take kindly to spies, there is even a possibility of execution. Marion and I quite capable on our own, and your cooperation does not determine our success. It does, however, determine your future. Ultimately, the choice is yours."
Nathan delivers his words in a rather calm manner, as if he was reporting on the weather.

[User]
 Checking his palm, which he had missed, Soga indeed sees a swirling cloth pattern there.

None of this made sense. But, what option was there, but wait and see?

 "Fine..." , he resigns.

[User]
 After a few minutes of uncomfortable silence, the back door opens and two people enter. One, a man in his mid-twenties and a girl only a few years older then you. Something about his face and his red hair made Soga think he has already seen the man somewhere, but he couldn't really remember where. The girl, on the other hand, didn't really leave much impression. She was rather plain, although obviously attractive. Long black hair was worn in a rather tame manner, and her general appearance pointed at a rather tame person. The man, on the other hand, looked completely different. The grey and orange uniform they both were wearing clearly fit him better, and judging by his general appearance he was man in high position.
 "So, this are the new recruits?"  The man says.  "I must say I am a little disappointed by their number. Still, there is a possibility that a few more initiates will join us soon, and this three should pass their exam, so that should be enough."
He gives Soga a thorough look before continuing.  "You must be the new transfer, you may refer to me as Serph, since I am the leader of our tribe. Hopefully, you will be a member after tonight. Due to the circumstances that are beyond my control, you will be put in charge of tonight's mission. Do not worry, Nathan here will be more then happy to assist you. Granted, most of his help comes in a form of criticism, but you will get used to it. And speaking of tonight's mission, it will be a simple one. All you have to do is clear a certain location."
 "That is all? I wasn't really expecting a full-fledged skirmish, but I expected more."
 "Are you questioning my judgment?"
 "Of course not. I was just expressing my expectations. I am more then ready for any challenge that awaits us."  Nathan answers with a smile.

[User]
 A skirmish? What have I gotten myself into?

Soga, however, opts to remain silent, following the boy's earlier advice. The man's intimidating presence might have been part of it. After all, if worse came to worst, he'd rather flee armed and in the chaos than surrounded and enclosed.

[User]
 "Then I don't think there is anything left to say, and we really shouldn't waste any time. I want this finished soon, so that we can all get some sleep."
And that was it. Before Soga knew what was going on he found himself outside, following this Serph guy. And although there was something strange about the buildings that surrounded them (Soga was pretty sure that he did not see this when he was coming) he didn't really want to ask anything. Soon, they found themselves in front of a strange, half-torn building.
 "Let's not prolong this anymore. Clear the building and come back here. You have two hours, but I doubt you will need them. We will wait for you here. That is all."
As the team enters the building, and moves far enough from Serph, Nathan give Soga an evil smile.
 "What now, commander?"

[User]
 Why, this guy's nerve... Fine, let's play ball.

 "Now you will give me a detailed and complete debriefing of my, and our, situation, including everything you damn well know puzzles me. That's an order."

[User] "That's not how this is gonna go. I can't give you all the information at once, it is too much. Still, I will start with Atma. It is a special kind of virus, designed to give you access to something that's not really normal. However, you will find that definition of word normal is going to change quite rapidly. To put it simply, it allows you to transform. This other form, referred to as demonic form by some, is the first step. Before that happens you can't really understand what is going on. In order to activate it you just need to focus on your Atma brand and let it happen. Try it."

[User]
 With a cold stare, and unfazed by the apparent weirdness (you can only experience that much before you no longer care), Soga replies.

 "This damn better explain a lot."

Focusing on the weird mark on his hand, Soga closes his eyes.

(mind if it triggers under pressure for me? You know, demand a jab to get working :P))

[User]
 At first, Soga didn't really have much luck. There were some signs that something was happening, but it wasn't really going anywhere. This was soon interrupted by a group of strange figures moving into the room.
 "This is no longer a drill, so you better be ready for this."  Nathan said while focusing on his mark. Soon, Soga was able to witness his transformation. Nathan's skin slowly turned red, and Marion followed up by turning pink. Their bodies, and most importantly, their faces soon followed. When they were finished two figures standing before Soga were so different then before, but they still looked vaguely human.

[User]
 The arriving figures, and the sudden mutation of the pair, broke Soga's concentration is a jolt.

Might be that he was holding back on some level, however, as this sudden jolt changed something.

Like how someone super-focused is easily startled, sorta. His mind moved suddenly and forcefully in the way he was concentrating, and the brand on his hand lit up with a dark-purplish light, almost as bright as a light of that color can be.

Before he could make sense of it, the purplish-black hue enveloped him. A fierce itch started tormenting his forearms, as if his jacket's fabric was digging into them. But it lasted for just a moment, not because it receded, but because of what felt like there was no longer a forearm to itch.

His hood flipped worn, then pulled lower, leaving him with an odd need to grin, his hands suddenly felt awkward as tools of control (but oh so perfect for tearing gashes through enemies). He threw his neck back an a triumphant roar, but no sound was made. Still, he felt the itch of fear in the others, for they had perceived it nonetheless. He was unsure why, but it felt like this was an experience he had once before.

Snapping out of admiring this new form, he roared once more, ribbon-like tentacles of black velvet shooting out of his back and forearms.    "I believe you mentioned a 'clearing-out'? I think it's about time..."   , he thought upon the others.

 Spoiler: Celus
The virus branded him with a mark he was inclined to call 'The Torn Weave'. His demon form, 'Celus', is mirrored in his trenchcoat. The figure stands just over 2 meters tall. On first inspection, it seems to wear a long black coat, its hood drawn down to chin level, leaving a grin-like opening. The 'sleeves' flawlessly link to what would be gloves over the figure's sharp fingers. The ankle-long coat opens up on the front at hip level, revealing digitigrade legs with a dark grey coloration. Trying to see under the coat would reveal a writhing mass of black, sharp and ribbon-like tentacles filling it above waist, occasionally emerging from the bottom of the coat, and slits along the back and forearms.


[User]
 You find yourself in a room. Okay, that's a bit generous, it's basically a hole with a wooden floor over it and some boxes in; you can't really see around too well, though. Apparently, you're under someone's house. Great.

(Knowledge: Local 4+1=5) Your knowledge does not extend to identifying houses by their floors.

(Knowledge: Architecture and Engineering 16+1=17) That said, it is a very nice floor - you wouldn't find that in the poorer parts of town. You guess that rules out the thieves' guild, and the pavilion and common rule themselves out. Further, you don't believe you could be under the town hall's stage. That leaves the bar, which seems unlikely as the floor isn't reeking of alcohol, and the house of Jhenna. You're probably there. A skilled architect might have uncovered  1  more piece of information, but alas, you are not one.

But anyway, what are you going to do about it?

[User]
 Magnus Altair immediately looks for any materials he can use to disguise himself, particularly any materials that can be used to make himself look more like a beggar. Immediately afterwards, Magnus casts a spell of protection on himself, preparing in case there is an ambush waiting for him outside.

 Spoiler: Rolls
Search  (1d20+1)[ 2 ]
Disguise  (1d20+7)[ 11 ]
Also Magnus is casting Mage Armor on himself. (6 hour duration)

[User]
 Despite your best efforts, you find nothing. Partly because you didn't really search very well, but mainly because there doesn't seem to be much apart from alcohol, glasses, and stuff you'd expect in a pub.

You do, however, manage to cast your spell without interruption (Mage armour, +4 AC, 6 hours remaining).

[User]
 Magnus quickly looks for an exit from the room, readying himself for any potential combat, looking for any one that seems to be paying attention to him before exiting the room.

 Spoiler: Rolls
Active Spot check in addition to any passive spot checks i'm entitled to  (1d20)[ 4 ]

[User] Despite your poor vision skills, you quickly locate an exit and find yourself in the top of Jhenna's house. It has a slightly sad air to it; this is the house of a single lady who doesn't enjoy her life much. (Search 9+1=10) you notice that there is a bow rack, but it held only a single bow which is not present. There is a space to hang an also-absent quiver.

[User] Magnus searches the house for any food, if he finds any, he'll leave 5 gold pieces behind and takes the food with him.

[User]
 You find enough food that you can carry to sustain you for a couple of days. You leave five gold pieces in an obvious place, like the considerate little thief you are. People eye you oddly when you leave, and you consider that it may be a little odd that someone who no-one saw enter should be walking out of Jhenna's house. Oh well.

(Reflex 17+4>/= ???) You narrowly dodge out of the way of a spell that would have stuck you to the floor! But, you're entangled and sickened by the spell!
(Initiative 18+6 > ???) You get the jump on your assailant! You know roughly where he is, but he's invisible!
(Spellcraft 14+10 >= ???) That was a sticky floor spell with the cloudy conjuration ability added to it!

[User] Magnus immediately retaliates with a fireball  (7d6)[ 20 ]  before attempting to move out of the sticky floor spell away from the assailant. Hopefully withdrawing towards the direction of any crowds.

[User] (Reflex ???+4-2>???) You almost trip as the other caster places (Spellcraft ???+10>???) an incendiary slime spell below you! Watch out; any fire damage dealt on the slime will ignite it! Otherwise, it's just a jumped-up Grease, though.

[User]
 Magnus goes invisible and moves 20 feet away from the assailants last known location and 10 feet perpendicular to it.

 Spoiler: OoC
Hey, just a head's up, I'm currently on a family vacation, and will be without wifi or cell reception for the majority of the day from now to the 9th, I should still be able to post at least once a day, but it'll probably be at a very late hour, sorry for the inconvience.


[User]
 Lechner's Initiative:
[roll]1d20+1[/roll]
Orc's Initiative:
[roll]1d20[/roll]

[User]
 Lechner's Roll:
 (1d20+1)[ 15 ]

Orc's Roll:
 (1d20)[ 15 ]

(Just ignore that first post)

[User]
 Attack Roll:
[Roll]1d20+3[/roll] (It was a 1 + 3 = 4 = miss :c)

[User]
 Lechner swings wildly at the orc warrior, but the orc easily deflect the blow with his falchion. He laughs at your feeble strike, and brings his sword around for the counter.

 (1d20+5)[ 7 ]

[User]
 [7 < 14 = miss]
The orc's own attack is no more successful than the half-elf's; she grins and has another go at him!

 (1d20+3)[ 14 ]

[User]
 Damage Roll:
 (1d4+2)[ 3 ]

[User]
 The orc recieves a solid strike from Lechner's War Razor. He screams out in pain and fury, retaliating for revenge.

 (1d20+5)[ 9 ]

[User]
 [9 < 14 = miss]
Lechner utterly fails to be injured a second time, and outright giggles as she swings her blade... aaaaand misses.

 (1d20+3)[ 7 ]

[User]
 The orc doesn't care that his opponent is swinging back, he just wants to kill his enemy.

 (1d20)[ 14 ]

[User]
 Falchion Damage:

 (2d4+4)[ 7 ]

[User]
 [Lechy's HP: 7/14]
Ouchies! Lechner grits her teeth in pain, going at the ugly brute yet again.

 (1d20+3)[ 10 ]

[User]
 Filled with confidence, the orc strikes yet again:

 (1d20+5)[ 16 ]

[User]
 Falchion Damage :
 (2d4+4)[ 7 ]

[User]
 [HP: 0/14. DISABLED]

Attack Roll:
 (1d20+3)[ 4 ]

[HP: -1/14. DYING]

[User]
 The orc's laughter is the last thing Lechner remembers hearing before she falls unconscious.

She dreams of his laughter. She hears his laughter echo inside her mind. She sees the orc's face laughing at her, with a background of raging brimstone and fire roaring around him.

Everywhere you run is not far enough. Everywhere you hide is not dark enough. Every disgiuse you don is not effective enough. He can see you. He can smell you. He is after you.

Then, Lechner wakes up with a sudden start. She immediately feels a sharp pain where the falchion sliced her across her chest. She looks down to see that it is bandaged.

Lechner is in a dark cave, wrapped up in a bedroll. There is bread and water laying next to her, and a small campfire with a pot hanging over it. There is a repetitive  plop, plop, plop  sound of water hitting the cave floor somewhere nearby.

There is no sign of the person that may have put her here.

[User]
 Wincing, Lechner takes in her surroundings. She can't see perfectly in the dark, but her half-elf eyes have a better run at it than some.
She considers putting her top back on, but decides she's too sore for it just now---the bandages are cover enough for now.

Taking the bread and water, she starts to eat, not wasting any of it.

[User]
 When she finishes eating, she notices a neatly folded piece of parchment next to her. In bold, neat handwriting, it says:

" You have the pontential to be a worthy opponent. Killing such a weak whelp would have done nothing for me. Take this food and heal up. We will meet again when you are better prepared to fight.

                                 - Honor,
                                           Iso'Condee Thurashk  "

[User]
 Lechner blinks a while. The orc... decided to save her.
On one hand, she's alive, she's been tended to, and as far as she can tell nothing of her belongings has been taken. Hell, her stuff's better-organized than before! The orc's reasoning makes sense too, mostly.
On the other hand... was honor really an orc thing? She didn't expect that; most of the orcs she's heard of weren't exactly honorable-sounding, but maybe Mr. Thurashk is different. He's certainly got good penmanship.
Scooting out of the bedroll, she starts to dress with a few winces. Getting a charred twig from the fire, she does her best to write neatly on the back of the letter. It's not all that easy, so she has to make her reply a little basic.

  DEAR MISTER  ISCO   THRUA  ORC GUY
THANKS FOR PATCHING ME UP + REORGANIZING GEAR
WILL BE STRONGER WHEN WE MEET AGAIN
XOXO,
LECHNER

She places the note somewhere that looks dry and safe and easy to find, then checks the pot over the fire.

[User] The pot smells of some kind of spiced stew with meat and vegetables. It is very hot, and there is an empty bowl, a spoon, and a serving spoon next to the fire.

[User]
 He even made dinner for her.
That's... kind of sweet, she decides, in a weird honor-nemesis way.
Eagerly, she spoons out a bowl for herself and begins to eat, with plenty of blowing to avoid burning her tongue. Between her second and third bowls, she adds a brief ' PS. THANKS FOR STEW WAS NICE ' to her note.

[User] Lechner realizes that the fire in the cave is starting to die down, and it is beginning to get light outside.

[User] She stands, double-checks her pack, and starts to head outside.

[User] Lechner steps outside, squinting her eyes at the sudden brightness. She stands in a ravine that holds a slow moving line of water in the center. The area is lightly forested and the rush of new, natural scents is welcome over the old dusky smell of the cave.

[User] Trying to use the sun to figure her cardinal directions, she looks up and down the length of the ravine, wondering which way she'll head.

[User] Lechner sees seperated groups of smoke over the curve of the ravine on her left, a sign of a well-emplaced establishment, roughly the size of a small town. In the oppasite direction, she sees mountains going high up, causing the river in the ravine to travel toward the direction of the supposed establishment.

[User] Well, then, the choice is clear! Lechner smiles, starting to head off toward the town.

[User]
 It doesn't take you long to reach the town. It is very small, and is inhabited by mostly humans, some elves and a few dwarves. There are a few merchants selling all kinds of mundane items, a few places to eat, and an inn if you would like to rest.

You also notice a small group of soldiers donning armor and weapons and packing gear onto horses. It is like they are getting ready to go to battle.

[User]
 An inn, definitely could use a rest before long... but ooh, what's going on there?
Lechy trots over to the soldiers, curious.
"Where are you going?"

[User]
 "We are preparing to fight off the recent uprising of orcs." The apparent leader states.

There is only five of them, four humans and a dwarf, but look prepared well enough.

[User]
 She nods, brushing her scar under her top.
"Had a nasty run-in with one earlier..."

[User]
 He looks at you up and down. His soldiers stop packing there things briefly to listen in on the conversation.

"And you actually survived?" The leader ask, as if he doesn't believe you. "How?"

[User]
 Lechner decides to tell... well, mostly the truth.
"Well, the one I fought got the better of me, but luckily someone patched me up!" She grins, pulling the neck of her top down to show the bandages for a moment. "I got really lucky."

[User]
 Lechner's Bluff Check: +2 Charisma, +2 Circumstance Bonus for having evidence supporting her case.
 (1d20+4)[ 6 ]

Guardsman's Sense Motive Check: +1 Wisdom
 (1d20+1)[ 14 ]

[User]
 "Really? See, the orcs don't just leave survivors to be patched up. Plus, the odds of somebody getting you out in a timely manner to patch you up is unbelievable."

The rest of the soldiers resume packing their things.

[User] She shrugs and turns to leave, accepting he won't be convinced.

[User]
 "All right men, we are heading out in five minutes!" The leader commands his soldiers.

"With any luck, today we will be able to find and kill their damned leader, Iso'Condee!"

[User]
 Lechner frowns.  Mr. Iso is my nemesis! He better not go and get killed by them... not that I can really do jack about it right now.
Thinking, she heads for the inn.

[User]
 The inn has few people in it. The innkeeper stands behind a counter, a maid sweeps the floor, and a dwarf is passes out in the corner.

"Good morning." The innkeeper greets you. "How may we help you?"

[User] "I'm new here, wondered if there's anything a newcomer should know other than those soldiers heading off to fight the orcs."

[User] "They are looking to kill their leader. If they can do that, the orcs will hopefully stop terrorizing our village." The innkeeper states.

[User]
 Lechner considers telling the innkeeper what she told the soldier, but decides against it.
"I... heard the orcs were pretty bad in the area, yeah."


[User]
 D6 Higher roll for who goes first:
 (1d6)[ 3 ]
That failed.

Alrighty, Deck is as follows, with numbers, No peeking at Hand, Or Deck. Got it?

 Spoiler

1.Ancient Ziggurat
2.Ancient Ziggurat
3.Ancient Ziggurat
4.Ancient Ziggurat
5.Ancient Ziggurat
6.Ancient Ziggurat
7.Ancient Ziggurat
8.Ancient Ziggurat
9.Ancient Ziggurat
10.Quilled Sliver
11.Gemhide Sliver
12.Quilled Sliver
13.Fog
14.Sinew Sliver
15.Fog
16.Winged Sliver
17.Sinew Sliver
18.Quilled Sliver
19.Fog
20.Winged Sliver
21.Reflex Sliver
22.Sliver Overlord
23.Fury Sliver
24.Sliver Overlord
25.Sliver Legion
26.Sliver Queen
27.Talon Sliver
28.Gemhide Sliver
29.Sliver Legion
30.Talon Sliver
31.Fury Sliver
32.Talon Sliver
33.Winged Sliver
34.Battering Sliver
35.Acidic Sliver
36.Armor Sliver
37.Pulmonic Sliver
38.Battering Sliver
39.Pulmonic Sliver
40.Necrotic Sliver
41.Necrotic Sliver
42.Might Sliver
43.Battering Sliver
44.Might Sliver
45.Might Sliver
46.Gemhide Sliver
47.Fog
48.Gemhide Sliver
49.Gemhide Sliver
50.Ancient Ziggurat
51.Ancient Ziggurat
52.Ancient Ziggurat
53.Ancient Ziggurat
54.Ancient Ziggurat
55.Ancient Ziggurat
56.Ancient Ziggurat
57.Ancient Ziggurat
58.Ancient Ziggurat
59.Ancient Ziggurat
60.Ancient Ziggurat

[User]
 (1d6)[ 3 ]
Text for limit.

[User]
 Deck:

 Spoiler
In order, counting from top up.

Alpha Tyrranax x4
Flameborn Hellion x4
Tel-Jilad Fallen x4
Steady Progress x4
Meglonoth x4
Vagrant Plowbeasts x4
Mana Cylix x4
Manaforce Mace x4
Asceticism x4
Dispence Justice x4
Island Mana x5
Mountain Mana x5
Forest Mana x10

Who goes first  (1d6)[ 5 ] .

Starting Hand:
 (1d60)[ 47 ]
 (1d59)[ 30 ]
 (1d58)[ 52 ]
 (1d57)[ 33 ]
 (1d56)[ 22 ]
 (1d55)[ 44 ]
 (1d54)[ 37 ]

[User]
 Hand:

 Spoiler
Mountain Mana x1
Manaforce Mace x1
Asceticism x1
Meglonoth x1
Island Mana
Dispence Justice x1

Play Forest Mana

Field: Forest Mana

End Turn.

[User]
 (1d60)[ 44 ]
 (1d59)[ 52 ]
 (1d58)[ 23 ]
 (1d57)[ 15 ]
 (1d56)[ 2 ]
 (1d55)[ 15 ]
 (1d54)[ 1 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Ancient Ziggurat
Fury Sliver
Fog
Ancient Ziggurat

Play: Ancient Ziggurat

Field: Ancient Ziggurat

End turn.

[User]
 Draw:  (1d53)[ 36 ]

Play Mountain Mana

Field:
Forest Mana x1
Mountain Mana x1

[User]
 Re-rolling and drawing.
 (1d53)[ 31 ]
 (1d52)[ 24 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Ancient Ziggurat
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat.
Ancient Ziggurat.

[User] Drawing:  (1d51)[ 48 ]

[User]
 Playing Forest Mana

Field:
Forest Mana x2
Mountain Mana x1

[User]
 (1d51)[ 42 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.

Playing Ancient Ziggurat.

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat

[User]
 Draw:  (1d50)[ 45 ]

Playing Island Mana

Tapping all mana to play Manaforce Mace.

Field

Land:
Forest Mana x2
Mountain Mana x1
Island Mana x1

Equipment:
Manaforce Mace x1

[User]
 (1d50)[ 32 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.

Playing:
Talon Sliver

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat

Tapped:
Ancient Ziggurat x 2 (2 White)

[User]
 Draw:  (1d49)[ 17 ]

Playing Forest Mana

Tapping all mana to cast Asceticism.

Field:
Forest Mana x3
Mountain Mana x1
Island Mana x1

Manaforce Mace x1

Asceticism x1

[User]
 (1d49)[ 30 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.

Playing:
Talon Sliver

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Talon Sliver

Talon Sliver Attacks 1 Damage.

Tapped:
Talon Sliver
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat (White x2)

[User]
 HP: 19

Draw:  (1d48)[ 43 ]

[User]
 Playing Forest Mana.

Field:
Forest Mana x4
Mountain Mana x1
Island Mana x1

Manaforce Mace x1

Asceticism x1

[User]
 (1d48)[ 17 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.

Playing:
Sinew Sliver

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Talon Sliver
Talon Sliver

Talon Sliver Attacks 1 Damage.
Talon Sliver Attacks 1 Damage.

Tapped:
Talon Sliver
Talon Sliver
Ancient Ziggurat (White 1)

[User]
 Health: 17

Draw:  (1d47)[ 42 ]

Playing Mountain Mana

Field:
Forest Mana x4
Mountain Mana x2
Island Mana x1

Manaforce Mace x1

Asceticism x1

[User]
 (1d47)[ 29 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.
Sliver Legion

Playing:
Nothing.

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Talon Sliver
Talon Sliver

Talon Sliver Attacks 2 Damage.
Talon Sliver Attacks 2 Damage.
Sinew Sliver Attacks 2 Damage

Tapped:
Talon Sliver
Talon Sliver
Sinew Sliver

[User]
 11 Health.

Draw:  (1d46)[ 32 ]

Asceticism x1, for x2, cause that does something...

Field:
Forest Mana x4
Mountain Mana x2
Island Mana x1

Manaforce Mace x1

Asceticism x2

[User]
 (1d46)[ 20 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.
Sliver Legion
Winged Sliver

Playing:
Nothing.

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Talon Sliver
Talon Sliver

Talon Sliver Attacks 2 Damage.
Talon Sliver Attacks 2 Damage.
Sinew Sliver Attacks 2 Damage

Tapped:
Talon Sliver
Talon Sliver
Sinew Sliver

[User]
 Draw:  (1d45)[ 29 ]

5 Health.

Playing Mana Cylix (1 blue).

Field:
Forest Mana x4
Mountain Mana x2
Island Mana x1

Manaforce Mace x1

Asceticism x2

[User]
 (1d45)[ 43 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.
Sliver Legion
Winged Sliver
Battering Sliver.

Playing:
Nothing.

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Talon Sliver
Talon Sliver
Sinew Sliver

Talon Sliver Attacks 2 Damage.
Sinew Sliver Attacks 2 Damage

Tapped:
Talon Sliver
Sinew Sliver

[User]
 Tapping Mana Cyclix, dispence justice, sacrifice one of your attacking creature.

Draw:  (1d44)[ 9 ]

3 Health.

Transmuting Island to Planes via Cylix to summon Meglonoth x1, leaving 1 forest.

Field:
Forest Mana x4
Mountain Mana x2
Island Mana x1

Manaforce Mace x1

Mana Cylix x1

Asceticism x2

Meglonoth x1

[User]
 (1d44)[ 22 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.
Sliver Legion
Winged Sliver
Battering Sliver.

Playing:
Gemhide Sliver

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Talon Sliver
Sinew Sliver
Gemhide Sliver

Tapped:
Ancient Ziggurat x2 (1 Green, 1 Blue)

[User] (1d44)[ 28 ]  It decided to duplicate again.

[User] Draw:  (1d43)[ 39 ]

[User]
 Playing another Meglonoth.

Field:
Forest Mana x5 (two left)
Mountain Mana x2
Island Mana x1

Manaforce Mace x1

Mana Cylix x1

Asceticism x2

Meglonoth x2

[User]
 Draw now so I don't forget.
 (1d60)[ 26 ]

[User]
 Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.
Winged Sliver
Battering Sliver.
Sliver Queen.

Playing:
Sliver Legion.

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Talon Sliver
Sinew Sliver
Sliver Legion

Ancient Ziggurat x3
Gemhide Sliver
Talon Sliver
(1 Each Color)

[User]
 Draw:  (1d42)[ 25 ]

Playing second mana cylix (1 island).

Playing Tel-Jilad Fallen (2 forest, 2 mountains)

Field:
Forest Mana x5 (3 untapped)
Mountain Mana x2
Island Mana x1

Manaforce Mace x1

Mana Cylix x2

Tel-Jilad Fallen x1

Asceticism x2

Meglonoth x2

[User]
 (1d60)[ 30 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.
Winged Sliver
Battering Sliver.
Sliver Queen.
Fog.

Playing:
Talon Sliver
Fog.
Sliver Legion attacks for 9 Damage.

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Talon Sliver
Sinew Sliver
Sliver Legion

Tapped:
Ancient Ziggurat x 3 (White x2, Green 1)
Sliver Legion.

[User]
 Draw:  (1d41)[ 26 ]

Paying all non-forest mana to attach Manaforce mace to one of the Meglonoth.

Field:
Forest Mana x5
Mountain Mana x2
Island Mana x1

Manaforce Mace x1

Mana Cylix x2

Tel-Jilad Fallen x1

Asceticism x2

Meglonoth x2

[User]
 (1d60)[ 60 ]

Hand:

 Spoiler

Might Sliver
Fury Sliver
Fog
Fury Sliver
Sliver Overlord
Might Sliver.
Battering Sliver.
Sliver Queen.

Playing:
Winged Sliver
Ancient Ziggurat.

Field:
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Ancient Ziggurat
Talon Sliver
Sinew Sliver
Sliver Legion
Gemhide Sliver.
Winged Sliver

Tapped:

Ancient Ziggurat x3 (Blue x2/Fogx1)

Talon Sliver attacks, You die.

All Combat damage to me is gone.

[User]
 Blocking with Meglonoth who has manaforce mace, 10 damage to talon sliver, 10 damage to you, you're at -2, I win. Good game.

Oh, forgot about flying, Dispense Justice, you sacrifice it, my turn. [next post]

[User]
 Draw:  (1d40)[ 11 ]

Okay, summoning and playing a manaforce mace on the other Meglonoth. Everything I have attacks, that's two 10/10s with/trample and a 3/3.


[User] This shall be teh Ic, Once I post the Start.


[User]
 Okay Myllinnia. Please place yourself, roll init, knowledge checks, and list all the buffs you would have on you.

 Spoiler: The map

 Spoiler: Init

Dragon =23

 Spoiler: Monster info

Hp 387
AC 42, FF 42, To 8

Shield CL 11

[User]
 Init   (1d20+3)[ 10 ]

Mage Armor is up, Haste is up, Invisibility, and a single shot of True Strike.

Sy'triniaza will start at B19 (which should make it approx 60' from melee strike range.)

 ---These if able---
 Knowledge:  Arcane? (to get a hint on what weakness/str on this dragon... assuming arcane lets me do that. Oo)
 Hide   (1d20+20)[ 33 ]  and  Move Silently   (1d20+20)[ 23 ] (To sneak up on this dragon, if it can see through Invis)

(Also assuming the above works does Magic Missile and Sneak Attack work together~ XD  Otherwise I have my attack phase planned)

[User]
 Both will work.

Magic missile and Sneak attack won't go together, because it doesn't have an attack roll. Something like scorching ray would though.

The dragon breathes at you.

 Spoiler

 (20d4)[ 48 ]
Ref  (1d20+10)[ 27 ]
Will  (1d20+8)[ 26 ]

You take 24 points of acid damage, bringing you down to 50/74 hp.

Your turn.

 Spoiler: The map

 Spoiler: Init

Dragon =23
You =10

 Spoiler: Monster info

Hp 387
AC 42, FF 42, To 8

Shield CL 11

[User]
 Sy'triniaza hisses as its acid hurts her.  It takes a moment for her to fight that pain and slide into attacking range (E-14)  She slides easily into a practiced stance hovering slightly in the air her hands poised, her platinum wings spread, and her eyes focused on the dragon.  With luck this will at least even the odds some.

Casting Scorching Ray

Ray 1  (1d20+12)[ 14 ]  vs touch AC
Ray 2  (1d20+12)[ 19 ]  vs touch AC
Ray 3  (1d20+12)[ 13 ]  vs touch AC

[User]
 Your rays hit the creature.

The dragon proceeds to fly over and attack

 Spoiler

Bite
 (1d20+25)[ 42 ]
 (2d8+26)[ 30 ]
 (1d20+25)[ 30 ]
 (2d8+26)[ 34 ]
Miss chance low is hit  (1d100)[ 5 ]

You take 30 points of damage, bring you to 20/74 hp and are grappled.

 Spoiler: The map

 Spoiler: Init

Dragon =23
You =10

 Spoiler: Monster info

Hp 363/387
AC 42, FF 42, To 8

Shield CL 11

1 round to recharge breath weapon

[User]
 (ooc: Forgot my damages it appears... sigh)
Hit 1  (4d6)[ 16 ]
Hit 2  (4d6)[ 11 ]
Hit 3  (4d6)[ 8 ]

Sy'triniaza cries out as she is held tightly by the larger dragon, squirming in its grasp for a moment she begins to add strength to attempts break herself from it.

(Its been awhile but I do assume grapple is more than likely a death sentence, breaking out is my only option no?  Either way... the infamous break out roll...)

Melee Touch attack to break free  (1d20+10)[ 24 ]

[User]
 You remain grappled

The dragon breaths at you.

 Spoiler

 (20d4)[ 55 ]
Improved snatch damage

You take 27 points of acid damage, and a lot of physical damage. Which kills you I think?

 Spoiler: The map

 Spoiler: Init

Dragon =23
You =10

 Spoiler: Monster info

Hp 363/387
AC 42, FF 42, To 8

Shield CL 11

[User] (Well -7hps.  In the dying state.  But ya it will take a single squeeze to kill her.  Just need another 3 points of damage. XD)

[User]
 Please place yourself, list buffs, and roll knowledge checks.

 Spoiler: The map

 Spoiler: Init

Dragon =10

 Spoiler: Monster info

Mature adult Silver dragon
Hp 287
AC 41 FF 39 To 13

Ref +16
Dex 14

[User]
 Init   (1d20+3)[ 16 ]
 Buffs:  Haste, Mage Armor, Invisibility, True Strike
HP 74/74, AC 31, FF 28, TO 18, DR 12/Magic, SR 23
 Position:  J1
----

Sy'triniaza sneaks (Move Silently)  (1d20+20)[ 31 ]  behind the silver dragon, her eyes looking for a good place to strike.  Hiding in the shadows of its lair (hide)  (1d20+20)[ 24 ] , she makes her way towards it, her blade at the ready.

[User] You move first.

[User]
 (hmmm need to figure out my breath attack's damage ... will be a thing to do later)

Sy'triniza comes to a stop where she sneaks (J4) raising her hand, and makes her incantation.  A ball of fire forms between her hands and then she thrusts it forward, the ball shattering into three beams of fire as they race to scorch the hide of the beautiful silver dragon.

SR1 (True Strike) vs Touch AC [roll]1d20+12+20[/roll] | DMG  (4d6)[ 8 ]  + SA  (5d6)[ 23 ]
SR2 vs Touch AC  (1d20+12)[ 14 ]  | DMG  (4d6)[ 19 ]  + SA if needed  (5d6)[ 14 ]
SR3 vs Touch AC  (1d20+12)[ 14 ]  | DMG  (4d6)[ 16 ]  + SA if needed  (5d6)[ 13 ]
---
Edit: I hope this doesn't break it...

SR1 [roll]1d20+32[/roll]

Edit 2... Doesn't break it... but doesn't fix it... darn it... I hate this die rolling thing...

[User]
 (I hate double posting but...  (1d20+32)[ 42 ]

I hope I don't get in trouble for it...)

[User]
 Your spell fails to penetrate the dragon's spell resistance

 Spoiler

Bite
 (1d20+29)[ 40 ]
 (2d8+12)[ 18 ]
 (1d20+29)[ 43 ]
 (2d8+12)[ 14 ]

Claw
 (1d20+24)[ 32 ]
 (2d6+7)[ 12 ]
 (1d20+24)[ 29 ]
 (2d6+7)[ 13 ]

Claw
 (1d20+24)[ 42 ]
 (2d6+7)[ 11 ]
 (1d20+24)[ 31 ]
 (2d6+7)[ 18 ]

Wing
 (1d20+24)[ 31 ]
 (1d8+7)[ 15 ]
 (1d20+24)[ 44 ]
 (1d8+7)[ 14 ]

Wing
 (1d20+24)[ 36 ]
 (1d8+7)[ 11 ]
 (1d20+24)[ 26 ]
 (1d8+7)[ 9 ]

Tail slap
 (1d20+24)[ 37 ]
 (2d6+16)[ 26 ]
 (1d20+24)[ 34 ]
 (2d6+16)[ 25 ]

You take 93 points of damage. Which kills you I think.

 Spoiler: The map

 Spoiler: Init

Dragon =10

 Spoiler: Monster info

Mature adult Silver dragon
Hp 287
AC 41 FF 39 To 13

Ref +16
Dex 14

[User] (Well it seems to me Sy cannot take dragons by herself.  In fact with 74 hit points she's likely not to take anything thrown at her. XD)

[User]
 Originally Posted by Myllinnia
 (Well it seems to me Sy cannot take dragons by herself.  In fact with 74 hit points she's likely not to take anything thrown at her. XD)

Well you got accepted at least.