[User]
 The Cumberland Files: As You Sow
You stand in the alleyway, drinking in the scene as it surrounds and envelopes you silently entreating you to delve further and further in to its mystery. The air is polluted with the smell of cigarette smoke from the nearby bar and you can almost taste the stale beer entrenched in the nearby dumpster. It's noon and still the alleyway is darker than a smoker's lungs, and promises an even greater chance of death.

Yet you can't avert your eyes, you must know why it happened. How it happened. Your soul just won't let you forget about it, even if it wasn't dangerously close to lifting the Veil for the Sleepers. The body was only found a few hours ago and already half the town seems to know about it. A young woman found hung upside down with a pool of blood underneath her. The Sleeper police had already surveyed the scene, their yellow tape barricading the area from the public. They had quickly recorded the scene and then taken the body to the morgue to prevent outright panic, but still the tape remained and an officer had been assigned to the scene. Luckily the officer had just left to get a cup of joe, and with the lines at Starbucks he'd likely be gone for some time.

The pool of blood has remained, and the more you look upon it, the more you dream about the mysteries its crimson depths hide beneath its darkened surface. Still, the time for ruminating was past and you had a job to finish. After all it wasn't a normal woman who had died, but a Mage named Morea. She had been a Solitary but all the same, she was one of the Wise and someone would have to answer for this.

[User]
 Dali finishes off her cigarette, and crushes it under her heel.  She can't be distracted right now, there's something new and exciting and dangerous to undertake.  She sits down on the ground near the dried bloodstain on the concrete.

 "Well, let's see what we can find, shall we?"

She draws her wand from inside her jacket.  It's a simple wooden stick that was once a paintbrush, but has since been inlaid with silver runes.  Drawing on her own Awakened understanding, she attempts to see through the veil of time.  She mutters under her breath, using her wand and the High Speech as Yantras.

 Spoiler: Spellcasting!
Alright, so I'm gonna cast Postcognition, which is an improvised spell.  I've got a base pool of 4 for Time+Gnosis, and +2 for using my two Yantras.  I have three free Reach, so I'll use one to be able to "scrub" the vision, one to remain aware of my surroundings and not lose defense.  I'll use the third to bump it up to Advanced Duration, so I can watch up to an hour of vision.

 (6d10)[ 4 ][ 1 ][ 2 ][ 6 ][ 2 ][ 7 ](22)

[User]
 Same stifles her disgust. Dreki is above this, she reminds herself, trying not to think about the lingering smell. She feels outrage, not revulsion. This is  her  territory,  her  land. It is under  her  protection. So finding whoever did this... is  her  responsibility.

Mind set, she gives a small growl of annoyance, casting a quick glance back to the entrance of the alley. Assured that the ongoing murmurs of high speech from her cabal mates weren't going to attract any undue attention, she begins her own chant. In her mind, she sees the eyes of a dragon - herself - narrowed in righteous rage. She is magic and truth, no deception will hide the culprit from her.

 Spoiler
Casting Pierce Deception (Prime 1), using high speech and persona yantras. One reach on instant action casting, and the second to give it advanced duration.

Gnosis (1) + Prime (2) + Persona (3) + High Speech (2) = 8 dice
 (8d10)[ 8 ][ 8 ][ 2 ][ 8 ][ 1 ][ 3 ][ 2 ][ 5 ](37)

Dreki also reflexively activates Active Mage Sight with Prime and Forces.

[User]
 The Supernal swirls around Dali, shapes begin to form images from time past and actions only shortly forgotten. But they fail to take shape and just as quickly as the Supernal arrived so too does it fade.

Meanwhile a small dragon speaks to Dreki, telling her about magics that it can see and yet also not see. The alleyway is a bonfire of Supernal magic it says, maybe at least, as it gives the impression of nothing. A true Lie indeed.

 Spoiler: Things are happening!
Clash of Wills for Dreki, I'll be rolling my results secretly because otherwise that would be a spoiler 😛

[User]
 " There's something hidden here " Dreki remarks with a scowl, frustrated at her inability to pierce the deception. There's something there, she felt it pushing against her spell, but too strong for her to push past.

Alternative approaches then. She could try dispelling, if it's some sort of prime veil hiding a spell. Couldn't be a time or death veil, she couldn't see those in the first place. Same for spirit. Mind, maybe some sort of mental illusion? That'd be tricky, Drest couldn't really help with a dispel. It might not even be a mage's work, in which case she'd be out of luck.

Probably best to let the others take a crack at it first. " Ereshkigal, Dali, Drest. I'm going to include you in the spell " she announces, beckoning them closer.

The symbol language of supernal truth winks out as she drops the existing spell. She begins chantin anew,, fixing the imago in her mind again, only this time with inferences of her persona's aspects of leadership and guardianship. These people are mine, she insists, they share in my might, I will take the veils from their eyes.

 Spoiler
Canceling Pierce Deception and recasting it on the four of us. Same as the previous casting, but this time she'll take the -4 penalty to increase the scale to four people.

 (4d10)[ 7 ][ 9 ][ 6 ][ 2 ](24)


[User] Game Cancelled


[User] Please delete this post


[User]
 The Elder, The Elder's gotten ill lately. His years finally catching up with him.
Even worse, food stores have begun getting very low, with only the odd mushroom collecting and a rare dead mutt-carcass (there's basically a spot in the ark that a bunch of dogs live, breed and fight amongst themselves for scraps. it's where Dog Handlers gets their dogs from). Very recently the most influential people of the Ark banded together to create The Assembly. A grouping for voting on matter ranging from new market-prices, all the way to deciding on what New Projects to work on and which to continue working on.

You've all lived here at the ark for as long as any of you can remember, whihc is around 20 years, although none of you really knows since stuff like a Calendar or time-watching is a lost art from the Days Of Old.
But now it's time for The People of the ark to no just survive, but rather learn to LIVE. The Assembly have voted on what should be done for now, what to be build, where to be explored, etc.

(Please wait posting here in the IC until we have figured out what you all want to do as part of the assembly. this is done in the OOC)


[User]
 Fera, Fræzeid, Britath
 The Year 571 of the Common Calendar

The trading outpost of Britath was unusually empty when Mendev and Elyx arrived.  Shaking their heads in dismay, the pair sat and awaited any who would answer their call.  The outpost was a typical Feran assortment of tents, storehouses and ornate decoration all relying on the assistance of the large windmills to run the various pulleys, conveyor belts and miscellaneous clockwork devices.  Britath was once one of the few consistently busy trading outposts in Fera.  Tents belonging to hundreds of Ferans would surround the place.  Airships would anchor near the Airship Assembly Area to unload their goods the old-fashioned way due to the Tower often being full.  Of a night, Feran merchants would be trying to catch the attention of passers by with impressive displays of their wares.  Today, however the place was a ghost town.  Life was certainly different before the strange cracks began to emanate from Griuhna Sjova in Neo Scandza.

When aspiring adventurers arrived they discovered the reason for Britath's desertion; a large chasm split the place unevenly in two.  Mendev and Elyx could be found sitting against an Aizium pole which spiraled up to help support the roof of the large open building.  The two stood out not only for their unusual appearance but the fact the Masked Ones were not trying to fade into the background as they were known to do.  When Mendev and Elyx stood to greet new arrivals, their great height was immediately apparent as they both stood roughly the height of two humans while seeming far more delicately built.  They wore matching black coats which almost reached the top of their hoof-like feet.  Well fitting long black skirts with ornate strips of bright green cloth did not quite reach the ground.  Their brightly coloured hair stood out against the black cloth masks they wore over their lower faces.  The two quietly greeted the new arrivals before offering a seat and water while they wait for any others.

(( -- OOC --

This is a freeform adventure set in the world of EMPIRE!.  More details about the world can be found  here .

Feel free to bring any character, though any obvious slavers, murderers, poachers, etc. will likely have a very difficult time even during the chaos caused by the disaster.  One could also choose to RP as a Feran, if one so desired.  Most importantly, have fun!

The premise is that the Ferans have tried and failed to glean any information on the cracks of Fera.  Though it may already be too late, the Masked Ones Mendev and Elyx decided not attempt to join their mysteriously disappearing Masked One kin just yet, instead sending a desperate call to any who may be able to help.  If necessary, they would break Feran Law to save their land and as such even the despised Maurians were sent word of this alongside ways to enter Fera and arrive at Britath unharmed.))

[User]
 Fera, Fræzeid, Britath, 571
 Semelea and Henlief

According to official KOI records, Semelea Llorens and Henleif Deathbranch were both missing persons, presumed to be among the casualities of the Twice Heeled Travelers incident in Aloren years ago. A Foreign Affairs Ambassador, Semelea had been slated to return to the austere Urusilium outpost to continue trade negotiations with the Kell and her faithful guard Henleif was to return with her. KOI military rules of conduct strictly forbid any sort of fraternizing with your assignments in any way outside of  official  capacities, an arrangement which no longer suited the pair, who, in the ensuing chaos of Aloren, booked passage across the Sea of the Golden Sun and disappeared into Alydaxis. After the Alydaxan Dominion descended into chaos, they hiked over the mountains and into Angan Anvale. They were wed by a solemn Ashenian Priest under the light of the silver moons on a cold, clear night.

The pair continued their journey West, eventually crossing into Niskovia. They were used to the curious glances their unusual appearances garnered them. They were both tall, even for Spriggans, and towered over the mostly human and fae people they had encountered on their travels. It was while attending a bazaar in Karintiya to browse the local garments that Semelea had first heard of the Cracks of Fera. She and Henlief both stared curiously at the muddied leaflet she had plucked from the bottom of her boot. Fera was not know to be welcoming to outsiders, but whoever had distributed this leaflet promised safe passage in return for accompanying an expedition party in Britath. Semelea and Henleif regarded each other and shrugged, they had come this far. It had taken them several more days to traverse the vast Niskovian landscape before they reached one of the safe entry spots detailed on the pamphlet.

They were surprised to be greeted in Britath by a pair of normally reticent Masked Ones.
 "Hello, I'm Semelea and this is my husband Henlief. I understand there's some issue with um, cracks?"  Her cheerful tone trailed off as she gazed at the wide crevasse that had split the area with concern. This was seemingly more serious than she and Henlief had thought.

[User]
 Fera, Fræzeid, Britath
 The Year 571 of the Common Calendar
 Mendev  and  Elyx

The pair matched the couple's enhusiasm, greeting them in the traditional Feran way and offering them Absinthe.  When it was revealed they were wed, Mendev and Elyx looked confused, curious and joyful all at once.  They looked at each other briefly as though they had a thousand questions and fixed the pair with an embarrassed stare instead.  Elyx blinked their absinthe green eyes slowly and looked to the ground, hints of the Masked Ones' usual demeanour showing through.  To each other, it was clearly difficult to ask about this marriage and love concept; so much so that they didn't realise how their behaviour might be odd or disturbing to others.

Mendev and Elyx hesitated briefly.   "Exerri ara ev Fryx.  Yes and no."   Elyx spoke in the Masked One's native tongue; something so rarely done that even the Griuhna Haljans who live alongside the Masked Ones know only small bits and pieces.   "We Fryx’s Children know things the other Ferans do not.  It is...  forbidden, but..."   Mendev trailed off, their long ears curled back far enough to almost touch their shoulders.  It was clear this was difficult for the Masked Ones, but after a time Elyx said hesitantly,  "We hold different views to our kin.  They leave and we should too, but first we want to see...  see if.  What if our Prophecy is not what is happening now?"   Mendev blinked large, sad blue eyes which glowed lightly.  Though there was no iris nor pupil, it seemed clear Mendev was looking past the couple.   "Why are our people leaving the Ferans?  I just...  we...  after all this time.  But, if they would not help us, would you?"   Mendev asked.  Elyx added,  "To look for the signs of the Prophecy.  If it is true, the Ferans must also leave or..."

[User]
 Semelea cocked her head and furrowed her brow as she listened intently to Elyx and Mendev's hesitant words, when they were done speaking, she looked to her husband who nodded briefly. His scarred face looked on the pair with interest, this was an unprecedented level of loquacity for Masked Ones.
 "Henlief and I will be happy to help investigate! First though, what is this prophecy of which you speak?"

[User]
 These were both good and bad times to be a mercenary. The chaos in his homeland was long since settled, but more recently Arin had made a pretty penny from the war in Bordeux. Once that army was broken, though, and the king they called mad dead, the sorry remnants of his regiments streaming back towards the Celerese border, he had discreetly taken his leave. There was word of fighting in the west, monstrous insects swarming into Maur and the Free Cities, and while he had no particular desire to face off against such monsters, pay was pay, and he earned nothing sitting on his backside.

If he had thought he would stand out among the paleface westerners, he need not have worried, for there were enough traders and merchants that his appearance merited hardly any more than a raised eyebrow among most of the lands he passed through. By the time he descended shivering from the mountains, though, his plans had changed. Never mind these bugs from the desert, it seemed Fera was in need of people to investigate these strange green cracks. And if it turned out to be nothing, he'd still get paid (he'd make sure of that), and Fraezeid was hardly out of his way.

His clothing was a terrible mishmash: he must look like a complete vagabond. Niskan clothing was all too small, and he'd had to barter a jacket from a departing Ashenite, while his cloak had made it all the way from Celero with him. His trousers he'd picked up in Kyaralath and despite the trek from there they still showed some signs of their garish colour, and his boots had been patched and re-cobbled so many times it was debatable if they were even still the same pair. A furry Niskovian hat, slightly too small but warm enough to do the job, perched atop his head, and his gloves had never matched. Nevertheless, if anyone cared to inspect his relevant equipment, they would find that well-maintained.

" Arin Kaeltin, " he grunted to the Masked Ones as they made to greet him. He gratefully accepted the offer of water and a seat.


[User]
 [3.5] Monty's Haul [OOC]

 Spoiler
     Player
  Character
  Classes
  Race

   Scarlet
  Njala the Tall
 Barbarian/Fighter
 Half-Giant

   Bayar
  Dirk Spellshanker
 Rogue/Wizard/Fighter
 Gray Elf

   Pertenetator
  Shu'lka Dragonpuncher
 Fighter/Monk/Psionic Fist
 Half Orc

   Darklink_shadow
  Maxwell "Quiet Jack" Thatcher
 Cleric
 Halfling

 Robyn Graves, 4th Level Bard
 Size/Type:  Small Humanoid (Halfling)
 Hit Dice:  4d6+4 (20 hp)
 Initiative:  +6
 Speed:  20 ft. (4 squares)
 Armor Class:  15 (+1 Size, +1 Dex, +3 Armor), touch 12, flat-footed 14
 Base Attack/Grapple:  +3/-2
 Space/Reach:  5 ft./5 ft.
 Special Attacks:  Halfling traits
 Special Qualities:  Halfling traits, bardic knowledge 6, countersong 4/day, fascinate 4/day, inspire courage 4/day, inspire competence 4/day
 Saves:  Fort +4, Ref +8, Will +5
 Abilities:  Str 8, Dex 15, Con 12, Int 14, Wis 8, Cha 16
 Skills:   Bluff +10, Diplomacy +10, Disguise +10, Gather Information +10, Perform (Sing) +10, Sense Motive +6, Tumble +9, Use Magic Device +10
 Feats:  Improved Initiative, Weapon Finesse
 Alignment:  Neutral
 Possessions:   Masterwork small studded leather armor, masterwork small rapier, masterwork small shortbow, 20 small arrows, +1 cloak of resistance, wand of cure light wounds (50 charges), elixir of love, three 100 gp pearls, spell component pouch, small backpack, small bedroll, 5 days small trail rations, flint and steel, waterskin, silver holy symbol of Monty, disguise kit, book of song lyrics, traveler's outfit, 10 gp, 4 sp
 Bard Spells Known : (6/3/2; save DC 13 + spell level)
 0th-  dancing lights, daze, detect magic, ghost sound, message, read magic
 1st-  comprehend languages, cure light wounds, identify
 2nd-  cure moderate wounds, glitterdust
 Spells Per Day:  3/3/1

 Spoiler: NPC Image

 Date: 25th Argus, 215
Time: 12:00
Weather: Warm, Calm (60-85°F)
Location: Monty's Trail

After a half day's march, your group is nearing the entrance to the underground caverns where reports have emerged of a new trove of treasures being found. The walk from town has taken nearly a week, and the warm summer weather has been kind and mild. You've been following a dried up stream bed along the rocky mountain trail, strewn with boulders and the occasional cliff face. By your estimates, another full day of travel should see you arriving at your destination.

 Local Map:

  Specify your character's location on the map anywhere in squares 0 to 4, then make a Spot check.

[User]
 The second taller member of the group was a quite muscular green skinned female, Shu'lka. The half orc has been walking sideways to the dried stream (l 3), mostly to check on anything interesting that might be around. Also in case any trouble showed Up. The brawler was a quite good spotter when she was not distracted by her thoughts or books.

 Spoiler: Spot Check
 (1d20+8)[ 22 ]

[User] Quiet Jack continued reading the book on faedragons as he walked, looking up just often enough not to run into anything.   Robyn, look here. Says Fairy Dragons breath out a form of magic light as a form of attack. Simply amazing. I'm glad you spotted this book in that dingy cavern back there. Marvelous! Look at the diagram! Beautiful. Says here they are kind creatures too. I wouldn't mind meeting one of them! Mischievous little buggers though, the book says.

[User]
 The tallest member of the group, Njala made it her purpose in the group to blaze the trail, her large, bare footprints strewn in the silt of the dried streambed. The giant Nordic woman shoulders her sword in relative silence, eyes focused on the path ahead, occasionally turning up to stare at the patterns in the clouds above. " Hey Shu'lka. How much you wanna bet I could toss that boulder over them cliffs? I think I could do it, if'n I was ornery enough. Yeah. " quoth the ginger solemnly, a little smile upon her scarred face. " Fires of, uh, Surtr, won't this  road   end  already? "

 Spoiler: Spot Check, Location

Spot Check:  (1d20+1)[ 18 ]
Location: G-4!

[User] "I wouldn't bet on it"  Shu'lka replied as she climbed upwards for a better view You said the same thing about a boulder like, a week ago. You only managed to rip your pants from the stress o your muscles. And yeah, i would very much like that i won't have to buy you another pair, thank you."

[User] The barbarian girds her belted loincloth, having learned her lesson about the strain muscles could pose on flimsier cloth, and as such, found herself a good bear skin to wrap around her leggings. " Maybe these city-folk shouldn't make their pants so crudely. I had a very good pair of britches once. They were strong. But flammable. Why make clothes flammable? It just doesn't make sense. And the only reason I couldn't rip that boulder out was because it was a mountaintop! And I was hungry! And I'd already gotten angry that day!  And the sun was in my eyes.  Besides, I'd already lost my pants that day, and didn't feel like giving Jack and Dirk more of a show than they could afford. I've fixed that problem now! These pants are better. Shu'lka's gift of pants and the bear's gift of his hide have seen to it that my legs will no longer go unclad! " She huffs at Shu'lka's comment, turning her nose upwards. She could totally throw that boulder if she wanted to.

[User]
 Quiet Jack looked up at his strong, limber, muscular college's loud conversation. When it looked like there wasn't a chance she'd accidentally lose clothing again he went back to his book.

  Njala, save your anger for things more dangerous than sleeping rocks.  Like maybe falling rocks.Or sleeping dragons.   Or falling dragons. Oh, but not ... fairy dragons... why does this one have three wings? That doesn't make any sense.

[User]
 "Heh, or falling sleep. Asleep that is."  The elf that talked was most obviously a wizard of some kind judging from his rich purple robe and raven perched on his shoulder.  "Can't wait to get to that treasure trove and do something interesting, this walking business is such a bore."

 Spoiler
Location: H2
Spot:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ]

[User]
 All but Dirk can see, up a small cliff face ahead, that an ugly misshapen head appears briefly before a grunt indicates something is preparing to attack! A muscular form steps out from the shadow of a huge boulder and hefts a stone as big as Maxwell in one hairy paw.

 Spoiler: Giant Language
 "You fink you frow rock wittle wun? Ha! Me show how frow rock! Squash you fwat, eat you fat!"

 Begin Surprise Round
 Initiative:
 (1d20-6)[ 0 ]   N -  Njala
[Surprised]  D -  Dirk
 (1d20+4)[ 11 ]   S -  Shu'lka
 (1d20+2)[ 20 ]   M -  Maxwell
 (1d20+6)[ 17 ]   R -  Robyn
 (1d20-1)[ 8 ]   1 -  Hill Giant

  Remember, you get a single standard action only in a Surprise Round.

[User] "GIANT! "   Shul'ka yells at the others  "Take Cover !" . SHe herself focused on her inner powers, manifesting a  a tangible field of force that surrounded her (inertial armor)

[User]
 Quick Jack stared at the beast, but hesitated too long to do anything during the surprise round besides move forward.

 Spoiler: Move

Move to I 7

 Spoiler: Next Round's Action.
Quiet Jack looked up from his book again just in time to see the creature. He snapped his book shut with one hand and began to speak in the magical tongue of divine conjuration.

 "Omfray ethay itspay ofway ellhay, Iway onjurecay ouyay, Oway eastbay ofway Uranday Uranday. Omecay orthfay andway ockknay isthay upidstay iantgay onway ishay assway, andway eatway ishay iverlay!"

 Spoiler: Actions
Summon Monster 2: The Fiendish Wolf

Target is F13. He should be here at the end of this round, or exactly, right before the start of my turn.

[User] Gripping her greatsword in both hands and prepared to unsheathe the rather large blade, Njala sneers as the giant appears, bellowing in response. " I don't know what kinda Giantish you's is speaking, but it sounds like an insult!! Insult...ers bleed! "

[User] "Giant ? What giant ? Oh, that giant."  Dirk is caught completely unaware by the giant.

[User]
 Maxwell moves forward, getting ready to cast a spell of summoning. Meanwhile, Robyn starts singing, and her allies feel bolstered and ready to fight!

   ♪Oh, a lusty young smith at his vice stood a-filing.♪
♪His hammer laid by but his forge still aglow.♪
♪When to him a buxom young damsel came smiling,♪
♪And asked if to work in her forge he would go.♪
   Robyn Graves
Standard Action:  Inspire Courage +1
 Free Action:  5 ft. step to i2

Shu'lka concentrates and summons a field of force around herself, and the Hill Giant gives a grunt as it hurls the stone in its hand straight at Njala!

   Hill Giant
Standard Action:  Ranged attack vs. Njala AC 22 (+4 bonus due to Cover)
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 20 ]
Damage:  (2d6+7)[ 16 ]
 Local Map:

  Njala's turn and then we're at the top of Round 1!

[User]
 Shu'lka, now adequately protected, quickly rushes forward to reach the giant before her teammates start getting bombarded.

 Spoiler: Actions
Run to M22

[User]
 Drawing out his bow, Dirk moved towards the giant, arriving near Jack (H8).  "Huh, he's a big guy, isn't he ? Maybe he'll stop attacking after he get's hurt a bit ? No sense in trying to fight a group of delvers like us and dying, right ?"  He shoots an arrow towards the giant.

 Spoiler
Move to H8.

Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 20 ]
Damage: (1d8)[ 3 ]


[User] The four of you find yourselves locked together in a crowded, filthy cell. In fact, you have been locked away here for gods knows how long. You haven't needed to eat since you turned undead, and the passage of time has seemed... clouded. Since the knights of Lloyd hunted you down and threw you in this dungeon, you've had no visitors. The knights used to come and bring more undead in, and lock them away in droves. Then they came less and less until eventually they stopped coming at all. With nothing to break up the monotony, many of the undead have lost their minds and gone hollow. Some have even managed to break free, filling the Asylum with a riotous cacophony of insane violence and despair. But that's not the worst of it. Something huge stalks the grounds. You have felt its steps shaking through the walls. And you have no idea what it is.

[User] Loran was one of the few Undead here not hollowed yet. He wasn't sure, but he thought he'd been here longer than at least most of his cellmates. It's been a simple thought that's held him from becoming a piece of angry flesh for so long, his need to eventually get out of here, and rejoin his ranks. Balder needed the cure, he  had  to get it, get the cure...

[User] Victor doesn't move. There wasn't any point. Without a way out, the pilgrimage to find the old masters would never be complete.

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC
Anybody else?

[User]
 Marwin gave up looking for a weak point in the cell's walls a long time ago, and has taken to leaning against one of the back corners, waiting endlessly for something to happen that might damage the integrity of the prison walls.

  Don't give in to the madness. Remember who you were - no, who you  are . Think about the Kingfisher, and its crew. Remember their names and faces. Fishguts, One-Eyed Henry, even mean old Half-Tusk. Oh, what fun we had. The world was ours, or at least the bits of it covered in water were.

They're all gone now. But  you  aren't. Remember that. You still have a chance of getting out of here. Don't. Go. Mad.

[User] Dust vigilantly watches his cell door, as he had done for lord knows how long. He had to escape, and one day the opportunity would come. One day, he would seize it. Hollowing, was not an option.

[User]
 Outside your cell, a few freed hollows languish about. One pounds on the wall, another paces aimlessly up and down the long corridor ahead, and a third sits against the wall staring with glassy eyes at the ceiling. Yet another drags itself along the floor toward your cell, having noticed the four of you. As it takes hold of the bars and begins gnawing on them, you hear noise above you. Footsteps, maybe; perhaps fighting. You see, perhaps for the first time, some kind of large, metal panel set into the stone ceiling when suddenly it bursts open and a corpse falls through! After the fifteen foot drop, the corpse's head smashes hard into the stone floor, spattering each of you with blood, Marwin most of all. Curiously, a knight in a clean, well-kept blue tabard and polished steel full-helm peers through the opening in the ceiling. He is not one of the knights of Lloyd. Who is he, and where did he come from? He keeps his visor down and says nothing before ultimately disappearing, so you may never know.

 Spoiler: OOC
Victor, you notice a jingly-jangling as the corpse hits the ground.

[User]
 "...Curious,"  Victor mutters, his voice hoarse from lack of water and humanity. He examines the body, seeing as he has no other option. At least it's something to do.

 Spoiler
Perception roll  (1d20+5)[ 18 ]

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC
Properly, to search a corpse or room or something you'd make an Intelligence (Investigation) check, but since what you're looking for is easy to "spot," not only would the Investigation DC be like 5, Perception should be fine as well. You find a ring with two keys on the corpse's belt. The corpse is also holding a broken sword.

[User]
 Victor uses the keys on the door, and equips the sword.

 Spoiler: OoC
How much does the sword weigh?

[User]
 Victor attempts to use each key in turn on the door to their cell, finding that the round-shafted key with a single large, jagged tooth clicked into the cell's lock and popped the door open. In his elation to be free, one couldn't blame him if it simply never struck him as odd that the knight dropped  this  corpse into his cell and it  happened  to have the key to his freedom. The other key on the ring, an old, boxy looking one of rusted iron must go to something else.

Victor finds that the broken sword was once a longsword, its blade marred and rusted. The whole piece weighs half as much as a good longsword might (and deals 1d4 damage).

[User]
 Victor discards the sword. Swords are the tools of lesser men. He proceeds through the doorway.

 Spoiler: OoC
I take it I can't burn everything jusr yet? 😛

[User]
 Loran watched the man search the body with empty eyes. It wasn't before he saw him open the door that he realised what was happening, and jumped to his senses.

  "How did you... No matter. We better keep together if we want to get out in one piece."

[User]
 As he steps out from his cell, his old bones creaking with each movement, Victor found that the hollow went from gnawing at their open cell bars to snapping his jaws at Victor's ankle!

 Attack:   (1d20+0)[ 5 ]  (and Damage:  (1d4-1)[ 1 ]

The attack missed, but the shambling corpse doesn't seem deterred. It stands and pulls a makeshift club that had been tucked into the strips of rags wrapped around its waist.

[User] Victor addresses Loran.  "If that is what you think, then perhaps you should pick up that broken sword and dispatch that hollow."

[User]
 Dust joins the party and sneers.  "These hollows are nothing but filth."  He picks up the broken blade and readies himself for battle.

 Spoiler: OOC
Help me combat? Haha.

[User]
 Seeing that the only weapon is sight was picked up by someone else, Loran doesn't hesitate. He's been trained in unarmed combat, enough to pin that miserable creature.

((Grapple athletics check:  (1d20+5)[ 15 ]


[User]
 The Gorion mountain range is home to the dwarves. Its a massive fort as well as a mining operation. The capitol city of Hamrogh sits behind 5 massive fortresses that protrude from the mountainside and send its vast resources through the 4 major trade ports to the south. With several villages and towns surrounding those major establishments, you find your first village in the south west. You arrive from the north, stopping at the bridge crossing a small gorge, awaiting the arrivals of allies the red dragon told you would help with your mission. The red dragon, Narolyth, wants the dwarves to flee the mountains and the continent. Offering a fortune for success and death for failure, you've accepted this.

Gurria is a small town with no walls and few guards, though few dwarves would say they need guards. The town serves as a small barrier from monsters and usually serves as a last stop for adventurers headed to the wild north.

Its dusk at the time of your arrival. The sun setting over the water to the west, casting your shadows on to the mountainside.

[User] The cloaked figure slowly walks along, coming upon the small bridge he pauses and turns towards the sun before moving into the nearby gathering shadows.  Soon, he though, soon enough there will be plenty of material to which to apply my craft, although i do wonder if these fat slobs make good undead.  Such questions will be answered in time, but now was moment when he needed to offer his prayers to the gathering dusk so that they grant him the power to crush all those before him.  Placing his weapon and shield next to him he begins the ritual to renew his spells.

[User] A grandfatherly old human approaches the praying figure. He tugs at his voluminous cloak and says " Don't I feel like a copy cat."  He reveals his spiked armor beneath the cloak to confirm why he's here and waits patiently for the rest to arrive.

[User] A tall orc wearing a chain shirt and a backpack, with daggers and a pouch showing on his belt, arrives next.  "Hello," , he says. " I am Voimutahe. "

[User]
 Gardrilk

Limping up next to the other members of the group is a small, hunchbacked humanoid. He seems vaguely goblinoid, though larger than a true Goblin and thinner than a Hobgoblin. His skin is green and mottled, and his visage is twisted into a perpetual snarl. He wears a tattered, dirty black robe and a large, almost comically so, wide-brimmed hat that is a bright, but faded, yellow.

He hobbles over to the side of the bridge, spits over the side, and turns his pale yellow eyes on the other figures gathered.

 "And I s'pose y'all're the other hires? Huh. Well, guess I'll see if'n I can't get a spell'r two ready for our incursion. Pleasure to meet each o' you, I'm sure. Gardrilk's the name."

With an eye roll, he sits down and closes his eyes, apparently deep in thought or meditation.

[User] The little creature after being giving instructions by his master would after getting distracted and chasing a cat and eating it would move along the street and stop next to the one he was told to act as a pet for as his cover.  He would stop  and stay near the cloaked man like a pet would and even pretend to want affection from the cloaked man. He knew one day his master will no longer need them and then he will have a feast.

[User]
 Sorventh, the Red Dragon

From the road, closing to the party, the adult human-sized dragon arrives. As he sees the other five folks that gathered before the village, he cleaned his throat and spoke with a twisted tone using draconic words; Sorventh is still learning the language that inferior creatures use.

  I assume you are all my kiabili, hired by Narolyth darastrix.   He says to them, forcing his common, but having some draconic words escape his mouth. He does a small peek through the others, who he considers inferior beings, but knows that at this very state, a fight for leadership and a demonstration of power among them would led him into his doom.   Is there any nadot already?

 Spoiler: Draconic words (for those with Draconic)
 Kiabili  = Companions.
 Darastrix  = Dragon.
 Nadot  = Plan.

[User]
 It appears that only two of us could enter the town without being attacked on sight. Our best bet might be to ambush small groups after scouting the town. My favorite ambush is "Oh no, my wagon broke down the road won't you help me?"

Ri'ley looks down at Natas.  My, what an adorable kitty.

[User]
 Gardrilk

Opening an eye and glancing at the two newcomers, the stunted little man snorts.

 "Who're you talkin' about, oldie? Regardless, I'll be needin' a minute or twenty, so y'all c'n calm down fer just a bit."

He turns to the Dragon, inclines his head, and speaks again.

 Spoiler: In Draconic
 "Greetings, Scaled One. I'm hoping you're not too put out by my preparations. Are you, by any chance, related to our esteemed employer? You certainly bear the same look of a noble and the impressive turn of the snout!"

 Spoiler: OOC
Is Narolyth a male or female?

[User]
 Sorventh, the Red Dragon.

Sorventh turns his yellow sight to the half-goblin, and answers with the very language of his born and race.

  Si tepoha thric vi iejir tonopar mrith Narolyth. Vur si mi saeuth batobot sva gekip ir di wux tir vucot creol tekilek ekess vi tibyn drekim hefoc ve. D'nag ekess tafiaf wux, sia ominak ui Sorventh.
 Spoiler: Draconic-to-Common.
  I have no a blood bond with Narolyth. And I am glad that at least one of you do know some respect to a superior being like me. Nice to meet you, my name is Sorventh.

That being said, he also adds.
  I agree with the munthrek, an ambush would work just fine. Also, I could use a wagon to hide in, darastrixi vur tundari don't get along very well.
Finally, he sits in his rear feet, resting his body, he substracts from his backpack one piece of dry meat, and eats it.
 Spoiler: Draconic words (for those with Draconic)

 Munthrek  = Human.
 Darastrixi vur Tundari  = Dragons and Dwarves.

[User] "I would not be welcome in a dwarven city, it's true,"  Voimutahe says coolly,  "but I might make them think they were merely dealing with a random band of raiders--at least as long as they didn't notice I don't have an axe. "

[User]
 The cloaked and armored figure stirs, having finished his payer and readied his spells.  While the talking had been an irritation there are more important things to worry about now that a few slights.  He pauses as he looks around the rather odd assortment of beings meant to be a raiding group.

  Greetings, i am Vladmere.  While stealth and guile might be appropriate tactics for a situation like this, looking at what has arrived i would say hit and run to whittle down and confuse their defenses would be a better plan.

[User] The little creature heard Ri’ley and would give what would seem to be either a very toothy smile or it showed it teeth to the creature.  The creature posture would change as the scent of a dragon caught his nose and he heard dragonic being spoken. He heard the words even if it was not directed to him and understood it since master at times spoke to him in that language. He would stand there as he could not say a word but he did understand everything they were saying and waited as  long as he got to kill  he would be happy.

[User]
 Sorventh, the Red Dragon.
  Seeing as half of us aren't aldoer into Tundari settlements, one of us should reckon-in first. Who can go without atracting too much ptaual? Otherwise, si iaco mrith Vladmere.   Sorventh adds to the group, after speaking, he sits into his front feet, lying in the ground.

 Spoiler: Draconic words (for those with Draconic)
 Altoer  = Welcome.
 Tundari  = Dwarven.
 Ptaual  = Attention.
 Si iaco mrith  = I agree with.

[User] "So are we setting up an ambush, or are you hooded people scouting first?"  Voimutahe asks.

[User] I don't see why we couldn't do both. After getting the lay of the land we could lead some of the guards here for all of us to have fun with.

[User]
 Sighing, the stunted little man stands up, mutters a few odd-sounding phrases, wiggle his fingers, and promptly  changes . He now looks like a Dwarven youth with nice, if somewhat tattered, clothes.

 "I'll be back in a few minutes. Set up some kinda ambush, I s'pose?"

And with that, he turns and begins running toward the town.

[User] Ri'ley goes to the end of the bridge closest to town and waits twenty feet from the edge with his chain drawn.

[User] Sounds like a plan then  , Vlad will dons his weaponry and moves to follow Ri'ley in setting up the ambush.

[User] The little creature listened to the plan and thought it was good and would  then wait and once heard orders he would travel with man he was told to act like a pet for to help in the ambushing. The little creature did not care as long as he got to kill he was going to be a very happy little creature.


[User]
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[User]
 Sha-Suk calls out into the darkness:  Kydros, are you there?
Notice Check:
[roll]1d8[/roll]

[User]
 (Notice check second attempt)
 (1d8)[ 3 ]

[User]
 you fail.
you notice nothing but darkness....you must be in some dark cave or something....but you can't really tell...you got a 3

[User]
 I draw my lightsaber and try to look around again
Notice:
 (1d8)[ 4 ]

[User]
 Did Kydros hear Sha-Suk when he called out?

I look around. Notice check.

 (1d6)[ 5 ]

[User] you look around, and see one another, you are both on separate platforms, large square rock like platforms. you see one another, and the cave itself, it has intricate carvings along the walls. there are platforms that connect your two platforms, where there are not platforms there are crevasse that lead down, down, down to something, you do not see the floors of these crevasse....you also sense that you are not alone here. something unnatural inhabits this cave with you.

[User]
 I draw my lightpike and it hums to life in my hands.

"We are not alone, Sha-suk."

[User]
 I draw my light-shuriken.
 "So you feel it too then"

[User]
 the cave seems to shudder, you feel as though it could collapse at anytime.......
Rex appears, he is panting heavily, his black armor seems slightly ragged. his silver cloak shining, a small goaling svire in his gloved has. (make a notice check to see what it is)
Rex: " O good...huf...huf...you're alive.....lets move quickly boys....the sooner we get outta here the less dead we are"
he proceeds to start running, towards the exit (or so you hope) (make a movement check of some kind) [/B][/B][/B]

[User]
 I follow Rex at a run:
 (1d6+6)[ 9 ]

As we are running I ask him:
 "What's that in your hand, Rex?"

[User] Rex: "run now my dear fellow explanations latter"

[User]
 Kydros turns and sprints after Rex. He turns and says, "Where is the ship, Loki?".

Kydros vaults over some debris on the group and leaps to Sha-suk's platform.

I run and inspect the sphere, which Kydros assumes is some kind of holocron.

Run:

 (1d6+6)[ 9 ]

Notice

 (1d6)[ 4 ]

[User] you run, and run and run, as the cave collapses all around you. until finally you escape the cave.

[User]
 I put my hands on my knees, panting into my respirator mask. I look around our surroundings.
Notice Check:
 (1d8)[ 6 ]

I say
 "So, Rex, about that sphere that nearly caused our deaths..."


[User]
 The crowd is in an uproar as the two contestants are brought into the arena and unshackled in their opposing corners. The gigantic gates behind each of them would usually close with a deafening din of metal and stone, but any sound the gates would make is drowned out by those seeking entertainment. Both of them knew to expect this, but actually experiencing it was something else entirely. As the two fighters prepare to defend their lives, Murmur is the first off the blocks!

His opponent is a man with a dark look about him. He wears nothing but black robes and a sack tight to his belt. Strapped on his back is a scythe.

 ben-zayb, you're up!  Can you please include a character description of Murmur, add it to your sheet, and post a DM only spoiler with your current HP total after the last battle?
  Initiative Rolls

[User]
 Across the far corner of the arena, Arzan sees a gaunt winged creature about the size of a dog. The creature is standing upright, wearing a brown hooded cloak, a periapt, a black vest, a white three-quarter-sleeved shirt, a brown bag, a black leather belt, a pair of black open-finger gloves, and a pair of brown leather breeches. His face, wings, arms, legs and feet are bare but covered in dry grayish-brown fur. His sunken golden eyes have a piercing stare while his pronounced snout is periodically seen sniffing the air.

Murmur twitch his head sideways before suddenly bolting upwards, his wings flapping madly in the air.[SPOILER=ACTIONS]Murmur ends his movement at T20, 80ft. up in the air.
 Spoiler: @DM (actions)
 Full-Round:  Runx4 upwards (Run can specifically be used with fly speed)
 Non-Action:  Knowledge checks to get any information based on superficial appearance:
 Spoiler
Arcana:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ]
Dungeoneering:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ]
Local:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ]
Nature:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ]
Psionics:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ]
Religion:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ]
the Planes:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ]

 HP: 60/60  (buffs and durations are in the sheet)

 END TURN

[User]
 Arzan stretches his back as if he just came out of bed and then ascends 10 ft, drawing a wand while moving.
With a gesture, he unleashes a torrent of energy at his opponent. He then quickly activates his wand (if you have see invisibility you still see me, else I am invisible).

 Spoiler: Action Breakdown

Free action: Draw Wand

 Spoiler: DM only
Wand of Swift Invisibility drawn

Move Action: Fly to H20, 10ft up
Standard Action: Relentless Dispel
Dispel Checks:
 (1d20+6)[ 22 ]
 (1d20+6)[ 18 ]
 (1d20+6)[ 8 ]
 (1d20+6)[ 21 ]
 (1d20+6)[ 21 ]
 (1d20+6)[ 11 ]
 (1d20+6)[ 12 ]
 (1d20+6)[ 24 ]
(If more needed please tell me)
Swift Action: Activate Wand

Buffs are on Sheet

 END TURN

[User]
 Spoiler: @DM, Umbranar, and anyone else (OOC clarification)
You might want to amend your action, since Relentless Dispelling is not an Eldritch essence, and thus can't be used with EB to my knowledge. You are also out of range for EB (60ft), unless you use a Shape Invocation.

Also, what's the physical description of how he flied? Was he just floating upward and forward? Flapping something?

Another clarification? Did Arzan appear to draw his wand from near his wrist or from a weapon? Otherwise, I'll wait for DM adjudication if Wand drawing action is legit. (Wand =/= weapon, if that's the logic behind free action draw)

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC

Your right about the EB but I can still Dispel from this distance.
As for flying, Im just floating there, no wings or anything.
As for drawing the wand. I have always played it like this but I can be wrong.

Editted post and deleted attack roll and damage.

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC
The rules specifically say "you may draw a weapon as a free action combined with a regular move", in contrast to the previous normal Draw action (move action) still distinctly references weapon and weapon-like object when needed.

 "This action also applies to weapon-like objects carried in easy reach, such as wands. If your weapon  or  weapon-like object is stored in a pack or otherwise out of easy reach, treat this action as retrieving a stored item."

Nevertheless (and since it sounds I'm just hair-splitting anyway), here's my action.😛

Murmur tries to hold back a grin, in fascination, as he felt magical dweomers in his body being dissipated. He moves forward (S2) and draws an intricately carved baton, after which the grin finally escapes his lips as he points the baton at Arzan.
 Spoiler: @DM only
 Move:  draw Wand of Dispel Magic
 Free:  5-ft. step to S2
 Standard:  activate Wand. If I can't see him anymore (dispelled See the Unseen), area dispel in the middle of where I last saw him. Else, target him with dispel.

 Spoiler: DC16 Spellcraft
Dispel Magic
 (1d20+1)[ 14 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 14 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 5 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 5 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 20 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 16 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 2 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 3 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 7 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 3 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 9 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 16 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 15 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 6 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 21 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 12 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 11 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 10 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 2 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 17 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 16 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 7 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 5 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 13 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 17 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 2 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 5 ]
 (1d20+1)[ 7 ]

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC
Think you should spoiler spells and abilities seperate so I can spellcraft to open and see 😁

 Spoiler: spellcraft on wandcast

 (1d20+12)[ 30 ]

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC
Don't worry. DMs can adjudicate whether you identify the wand/s or not (you don't need to show me your spellcraft roll/s either).😉

[User]
 Spoiler: ooc
open play is good for the gamespeed tho😁

[User]
 Spoiler: ooc
Alternatively, you can allow me to look at your spellcraft rolls instead, to see whether it succeeds.😛

[User]
 Pause, please.

 Spoiler: @Umbranar
How were you able to use  relentless dispelling  and also activate your wand of  swift invisibility  in round one?  From what I can find, they're both standard actions.

 Originally Posted by Spell Compendium, pg 4
 Magic Items: Activating a spell completion item, activating a spell trigger item, or drinking a potion is a standard action even if the spell from which the scroll, potion, or item is made can be cast as a swift action

Retcon requested unless I'm missing a RAW citation.  Please choose one standard action or the other.

 Spoiler: @ben-zayb
I don't want to sound like I'm on a power trip, but for the sake of harmony in our games please be sure to bring any RAW questions about your opponent's action to the DMs instead of directly to that opponent.  This game has been completely civil about it so far, but I don't want another foe to take offense.

To answer your RAW questions, I'm a bit confused.  The rules you quoted listed that it also applies to "weapon-like objects such as wands," so why wouldn't that rule apply to wands as well as weapons?  Also, your opponent has a method of drawing as a free action whether or not he's moving, so the point is rendered moot.  Additionally, in the RAW discussion between you and your foe, there was an actual RAW violation that was missed; he used two standard actions in round 1--invoking and activating a wand.  I've requested a retcon, but rest assured: if someone tries to do something that isn't on the up and up, the DMs will notice it and respond accordingly.  If you have a question or feel something was missed, please bring it to our attention.

In regards to your knowledge roll, Arzan appears to be a human warlock.

Lastly, in round one, you mentioned being in T20...did you mean T1, as that was your starting square?

 OOC to both: It would be greatly appreciated if you included a Spellcraft spoiler in your posts.  Something like:

 Spoiler: Spellcraft DC 17 to open:
I cast   Glitterdust

would be phenomenal, as it frees up my workload and lets the game run smoother.  For instance, if a foe can self-identify what's been cast, they can respond accordingly instead of waiting for me to tell them if they know the spell or not.  Another note, please be sure to mention your flying altitude in each post.  Since Murmur just 5-foot stepped, I assumed he's still 80' up, but you know what they say about assuming...

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC
Roger that spellcraft, DC is 16 which Arzan passed. Depending on possible retcon, I'll post the spell for the resolution.

As for resolving RAW questions sans DM, I just thought resolving it (if possible) between players would lead to a smoother game. Apologies if it came off as vigilante DMing.😩

And fail coordinates on my part. That is indeed T1, and S2 altitude is also 80ft, to clarify.

All future posts will now be made with those considerations in mind.

[User]
 Spoiler: @dm
Aaah forgot about that rule. Im not invisible then. How would you like us to handle dispels?

Ooc: im not invisible.

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC
Alright, Post#6 was edited to reflect spoiler-spellcraft addition. It's a targeted Dispel Magic


[User]
 The crowd is in an uproar as the two contestants are brought into the arena and unshackled in their opposing corners. The gigantic gates behind each of them would usually close with a deafening din of metal and stone, but any sound the gates would make is drowned out by those seeking entertainment. Both of them knew to expect this, but actually experiencing it was something else entirely. As the two fighters prepare to defend their lives, Raymond is the first off the blocks!

His vision is obscured, though, by thick smoke that has formed in his opponent's half of the arena.  Likewise, he is obscured from view of any outside the smoke by his opaque red hemisphere.

 Zeb, you're up!

 Spoiler: @Necroticplague
Your eversmoking bottle remains from the last fight, but the effects are constrained to your half of the arena as per DMly ruling on what happens to battlefield control effects between fights so as to reduce the ability to spawnkill opponents.

 Initiative Rolls

[User]
 " Cloudy with a chance of death? I wonder if I could get an underwater arena, so as not to deal with all these tricks? "

 OOC: How many rounds to finish the last fight so I can put in correct buff timers?

 Spoiler: Actions/DM Stuff
Move forward to D17 whip in hand ready a spell if I see my opponent.
Position D17 ground level
Damage taken: none, 7 images and the one real halfling
Free action: Speak
Standard Action: Ready spell
Move action: forward 20

Buffs once there is an accurate round count

  Ends Turn

[User]
 Brutabra walks through the smoke, keeping senses out in case of wherever this enemy may be.

 Spoiler: Shrouded in Smoke
Full-round:double move to P11

[User]
 OOC: Assuming your turn is over

" Why don't you come out of the smoke and let me teach the crowd once again about the Lady's gift? "

 Spoiler: Hidden Actions/DM Stuff
Float upward in D17 whip in hand, ready a spell if I see my opponent.
Position D17 5'up
Damage taken: none, 7 images and the one real halfling
Free action: Speak
Standard Action: Ready spell
Move action: float 5 feet up

Buffs once there is an accurate round count

  Ends Turn

[User]
 " Better Idea: You come in here so you can do that. "

 Spoiler: Shrouded in smoke
Ready an action to breath a line of lightning if he comes within 30 feet of me, empowered by entangling exhalation.
Damage: (2d6)[ 8 ] , DC23 for half, [roll]1d4 rounds entangled

End turn.

[User]
 " They wont be able to see you die if we are within the smoke... come on out and lets have a look at you. "

 Spoiler: Hidden actions/DM Stuff
Position D17 5'up
Damage taken: none, 7 images and the one real halfling
Free action: Speak
Standard Action: Ready spell
Move action: Listen to try and locate Brutabra's square  (d20-1)[ 3 ]

Buffs once there is an accurate round count

  Ends Turn

[User]
 The two combatants taunt each other even though neither can see his quarry.  Up in the audience, some are watching the unfolding drama with rapt attention.  Others, though, didn't come for theater; they came for blood.   "Aw, C'MON,"  one heckler shouts out,  "quit dancin' and FIGHT!"   His comment is met with grumbles of agreement from others around the arena.

 Necroticplague, you're up!

 Spoiler: @Zeb
I try to provide accurate round counts in the title of my posts.  The last fight lasted 6 rounds, and this one has now had 3 go by.  Since fights come one after the other, it's been 9 rounds now since the start of your last fight.  Also, what spell are you readying?  Please be sure to indicate or your action will be wasted.

[User]
 Seeking at least some method of finding her currently unseen foe, Brutabra moves closer, grumbling to herself.

 Spoiler: Shrouded by smoke
Move action to move to j10
Standard to invoke Magic Insight towards a20.

End turn.

[User]
 " Well if you don't want to come out, do you mind if I cast a few buffs then ?

 The keener eared might her the rustling of a scroll being unfurled.

 Spoiler: Hidden actions/DM Stuff/Buffs

Position D17 5'up
Damage taken: none, 7 images and the one real halfling
Free action: Speak, draw scroll of raging flame from scroll bandoleer
Standard Action: Ready spell (Fiery Ray of Flame)
Move action: Listen to try and locate Brutabra's square  (d20-1)[ 6 ]

Resources/spells/maneuvers expended this fight:

Buffs (rounds remaining)
Tiny hut Radius 20' centered B19 (7176)
Feather token whip (575)
Flame arrow(477)
See invis(478)
greater mirror image(39)
Levitate (4)
Pro Evil (3)
Cats grace (2)
Fox's Cunning (1)

 Ends turn

[User]
 " Knock yourself out, all the easier to find you. "

 Spoiler: Shrouded in smoke
Concentrate for another round on Magic Insight.

End turn

[User]
 " Might be hard to see from in the smoke but I'm not hiding, bright red hemisphere over here in the corner, kinda hard to miss. "

 Spoiler: First hidden action

Move action listen check to locate Brutabra's square:  (d20-1)[ 18 ]

 Spoiler: Dependent on above results but still hidden
If listen succeeds draw sling and flash bang
Else read scroll of Raging Flames

 Spoiler: DM/Buff Stuff
Position D17 5'up
Damage taken: none, 7 images and the one real halfling
Free action: Speak
Move action: Listen to try and locate Brutabra's square  Above
Standard Action: Read scroll or draw sling

Resources/spells/maneuvers expended this fight:

Buffs (rounds remaining)
Tiny hut Radius 20' centered B19 (7175)
Feather token whip (574)
Flame arrow(476)
See invis(477)
greater mirror image(38)
Levitate (3)
Pro Evil (2)
Cats grace (1)

  Ends turn

[User]
 Brutabra seems to go silent as if thinking deeply on something more significant than all the idle banter.

 Spoiler: Shrouded in smoke
Concentrate for third round on Detect Magic.

End turn, but it seems we both need to wait for the DM to tell us some things.


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[User]
 Cyelle Interactions Text RP week:
 Morr:

 Spoiler: A Lovely Walk
Morning arrived, and the boys seemed to be preoccupied with the pretty halfling that called itself Jazz. A good time to explore a bit on your own, one could think.
 "Have fun boys, I'll see you later today."
Cyelle said merrily, and quickly left the Halfling Heaven tavern, as she came to call their sleeping-spot. Setting her priorities straight, she decided to visit Morr first. A woman should keep contact with the interesting men. Instead of trying to lull her into a flood of empty compliments, Morr had been honest and straightforward. It had been refreshing. No deceit (as far as she could tell) and no empty flattery. Maybe Morr could also help her find somebody who could help her with the magic thing she and her friends found in the cultists base. Who knows. For now, she made her way to the Good, Good, Good and Fancy.

After a bit of searching, it becomes clear to Cyelle that Morr is not at the GGGF on guard duty as expected. A few quick questions and  flashing her eyelashes and the bard finds out he is off, and expected to be at the main barracks today, getting fully cleared to return to duty tomorrow. Security does seem a bit heavier at the rather nice shopping facility.

Pouting her lips in a strangly adorable annoyed way, she thanks the people who helped her and she made her way to the barracks. After she around, she searched around for Morr, using her trademark mixture of diplomacy by gorgous voice and eyelash flashing to find Morr.

Arriving at the Barracks at the bottom of the Lighthouse, Cyelle can look up and see it is a rather impressive structure, cannons mounted nearly 5 floors up on the main landing, before the lighthouse event starts. After her initial enquiry it only takes a brief 3 or 4 minutes and Morr shows up. He grins as he sees her, steps out re-strapping up his leather gauntlets, and fully without his usual chain. Clearly the northman is off duty.
 "My my my, what I spot with my eye. "  he comments to himself in a sing-songy tone as he approaches.
 "As always, it is good to see you... "  he bows at the waist.  "Cyelle."

Cyelle courtsied in return.
  "The feeling is entirely mutual, Morr."
She said with a wink, eyes wandering over the northman.  "Although your singing voice could be improved. And as it is. I know a very.."
She approached Morr until she was a single step away and continued, tilting her head, causing her long red hair to fall into view.
 "Very good teacher."
Cyelle took a teasing step backward.  "But that can maybe wait until a better time. Are you free to go on a date? I need some good company while I wander the city and do some bard business, and I immediately thought of you."  Her smiled broadened.
 "Strange that, isn't it?"

He smiles, looking over his shoulder to someone at a desk, raises one arm in a clenched fist, and gets the same salute in return, he then turns to the bard.  "If you're not careful, a simple man like me could get the idea that you are fond...."
He winks as he takes one step closer, offering his arm, his voice softening and becoming more sincere  as he nods to her.
 "I cannot think of another place I'd rather be."
 "So what if you would get that idea? You have to take chances sometimes."  Cyelle said jokingly, but she took Morr's offered arm nonetheless, snuggling close to him, emphasising her figure.  "Shall we go then? I'll make sure not to take up too much of your precious time, if you're too busy. I need to get some magical items appraised and buy some articles that make my performances more successful and beautiful to look at and listen too. You'll be welcome to help me determine which ones fit me best."
 "The only reason my time is precious, is because you are here."  The northman smiles warmly down at her, and guides her towards the shopping district near the GGGF.  Morr seems happy to enjoy her company, patiently waiting as she compares instruments, and to have the honour of advising on outfit possibilities. He does not know where one would go for magical items aside from the enchanter in the GGGF, however Cyelle has no trouble finding out with her social skills. As the afternoon comes he escorts her the majority of the way to the Troll's warren. He turns towards her, clear he does not want to overstay his welcome.  "Thank you for that, however I must go get some rest. Late night shift this evening and one must be on there guard. I am already looking forward to seeing you again though little siren. "
 "And thank you, noble warrior of the north. The feeling is entirely mutual. I'll see you later. Oh, and if I find out anything about those cultists, I'll come running to you."  She gave Morr a quick kiss (this time on the lips) before waving goodbye and disappearing into the crowd.

 Gon:

 Spoiler: Gambling Madness
Cyelle, entering the bar at the Trolls Waren, coming back from some unknown business, spots Gon. Cheerfully waving at him, she yells through the inn at him:
 "Ooooi, Gon! We should go and throw some dice at the Fancy Pants place."
With a big grin, she adds:
 "I promise not to win you out of your clothes this time."

Gon looked up from whatever he was doing and smirked as he walked over to her.
 "If I recall, you were almost topless by the time we finished that game. Let's go."  he said.

 "Emphasis on almost."  She retorted, walking out of the building. She looked at the sun, seeing it setting a bit, it being late in the afternoon. Walking through the city, she shot a curious sideway glance at Gon and asked:  "So what have you been doing the time after we last met? I believe it was slightly more than 1 year ago?"
 "Well I quit the thieves guild after you left, they don't miss me I imagine. I wanted to travel out of Savannah and see the world, I'm not getting any younger afterall. So I started my preparations and a couple people tried to stop that. Big mistake. Around this time an accquaintance called in a favour I owed and that's how I met Grey and he tagged along. I'm not entirely sure why, the kid never told me."
Gon answered as he walked by her side.
 "What about you, what have you been doing since then?

Cyelle shrugged.
 "Since going the Savanah Kingdoms, I went to the Elven Kingdoms for a while. They know quite alot about illusions, so I took some lessons from them. A girl has to know how to defend herself after all. They pay halfway decent too. After that, I took a caravan back and I met Cal and Brycen."
The House of Sensible Trousers because visible in the distance.
 "So you're some trouble with your former friends, ey? Better keep eyes on the back of your head."
 "They probably haven't even noticed I'm gone, I wasn't exactly a memorable member. But if any come after me, they'll likely die if they won't get the hint and leave." Gon answered. "Odd nickname you have for Bethelandis by the way, how did you end up befriending a Magus and a Paladin? Neither seem like the gambling type."
As Gon asked this, HOST appeared in Gon's view in the distance, he wasn't going to lose as much gold this time around.

 "You'd be surprised what people you encounter when you're traveling as much as I do." Cyelle chuckled. "Rough barbarians, Stiff as a board Paladins. Even the darker type of people such as assasins and ne...necromancers."  At the last word, a shadow of pains long past flashed over Cyelle's face. It was gone as fast as it appeared, but it was visible nontheless.

Gon saw the pain flash over her face quickly, but chose not to comment. If she wanted him to know, she'd tell him, but he was slightly worried.
 "You certainly lead an interesting life my friend. I imagine you spent time with Moor before?"
 "Hhhmm, yeah, some. He is an interesting fellow. He is direct, sincere. Refreshing really. Not so full of empty flattering and endless courting."
Cyelle's mouth curled up in a smile, slighly mockingly.
 "Such as a certain sorcerer we're both familiar with."
 "True, the kid's words are about as real as a copper whore's. At least his getting rejected is entertaining to watch, plus he's pretty harmless."
Gon replied with a smirk. He was glad that Moor made her happy, even if it was a short term thing.

Cyelle let out a laugh, the sound ringing crystal-clear through the streets.
 "He might have more luck if he didn't hit on everything that has even a small resemblence to a woman's bust. But you're right, he is harmless. He's a nuisance sometimes, but he is an amusing nuisance."
 "Also, isn't he older than you? Wouldn't that make you the kid?"  Cyelle added with a wink.

Gon laughed, she finally realised that Grey was older.
 "I'm technically older by Half-Orc standards, we're considered adults at 14-16. Plus I have alot more life experience, I can't help but call him a kid with how he acts."  He answered.  "Though I have had to scare off more then a few men trying to defend their wife or children. Being a Half-Orc has it's advantages when racists aren't trying to kill me."
 "Maybe also when racists are trying to kill you. I mean, you're still standing here, despite it."
The duo reached the door of the HOST.
 "So, do you want to play on the upper or lower floor?"
Cyelle asked. She smiled slyly, running a hand through her long, red hair slowly.
 "The lower floor might have a nicer view for you, but you might be at a disadvantage because of it."
 "True, the bastards are lying dead somewhere afterall."
Gon replied as they entered the HOST.  "The upper floors, thanks. Distractions against you is a horrible idea."
It didn't take long for the pair to find people to find other people to play.

 "Peh, you spoilsport."
Cyelle pouted, still smiling. When the table was full, Cyelle took out her own set of dice, with the signs of playing cards carved and painted with precision on them.
 "Well then, ladies and gentlemen. Shall we begin?"
 "Let's."  Gon replied as he grabbed his dice and prepared to play. He wasn't giving her any advantage.

Flipping a silver on the table, Cyelle rolled, the old wooden dice she used rattling across the table. 3 two's, 1 one and one 6. The redhaired bard gather the dice that weren't on two and rolled them again, getting another 2.

Gon flipped a silver onto the table and rolled his dice, three sixes, two ones and a three. He then grabbed the three and rolled it again and got another six. How lucky he was.

Cyelle raised her eyebrows.
 "Gon, friend. Did you forget we use 5 dice here? We're in Linorest after all. Or our companions at the table could agree to use the Savanah version of the game."
Cyelle eyed the rest of the table, their fellow dicers shrugging in a *I don't really give a damn* manner.
 "Which version would you prefer, Gon?"  Cyelle asked after the lack of reaction from the rest of the table.

 "They do? Well, goat bollocks. We'll stick with Linnorest rules, sorry."  Gon replied and made it so he only had five dice. He was much better at poker then at dice, Cyelle had never been able to beat him at that in the few games they played.

Cyelle's memories about that were distinctly differerent. The rogue was good at poker, no doubt about that, winning the majority of the games last time. However, Cyelle had beaten him once or twice. She was very proficient in calling out one's pokerface.
 "Alright then. Let's start this again with the Linnorian rules, shall we?"
She rolled, and a 2, 3, 4, 5 and another 3 came up. Seeing a chance, she rerolled the second 3, landing it on a 1.
 "Got a Miasma Path."  She called.

Gon tried again and rolled his five dice, all of them winding up threes. What are the odds of that?
 "I got a Triple Walkway."  Gon replied as the rest of the players rolled.

The other players, being outdone by both Cyelle's and Gon's rolls, grumbled a bit. A couple of silver exchanged hands, in the favour of both Cyelle and Gon. Second round, Cyelle rolled again after flicking a silver piece on the table, ending up with three sixes and two two's after the second roll.  "Massacre of Sixes"  She proclaimed.

Gon rolled another silver piece onto the table as he rolled another five dice. That he and Cyelle were winning was good, but Cyelle was doing alot better then he was and was up a few more coins then him. He rolled his dice and they all came up ones and two.  "Curbstomp Roll"  He proclaimed, she had him beat.

However, Cyelle luck would not hold either. One rolled 3 sixes and 2 fives, proclaiming a Strike of Sixes, and another person got 5 fives, proclaiming a Walkway of Fives. Cyelle pouted her lips a bit in disappointment, but flipped another silver coin on the table nonetheless.
 "Who wants to start this round?"  she inquired.

One of the other players started and raised the bet to two silver a hand and rolled five fours and proclaimed they had a Rule of Four. Gon threw two silver into the pile and rolled, three threes, a one and a two.  "A 1-2-3 Step."  Gon declared, what rotten luck.

Cyelle, joining in, rolled 3 ones and 2 twos.  "Single Folly."  She announced, frowning. It seemed her luck left her as well for the time being. The other people on the table had similar or slightly higher results, but the differences weren't that great, limiting Cyelle's and Gon's losses.

The man with the Rule of Four won this roll, much to Cyelle and Gon's annoyance. After another hour, Cyelle and Gon had a bit more luck and were up a few dozen silvers each and two of the players had quit. One of them grumbling about losing to a Half-Orc and his lover (At this Gon had scoffed) and the other took defeat more gracefully. Now it was down to Gon, Cyelle and the one who had won with the Strike of Sixes before.

 "You start, Cyelle."  Gon said.

 "Very well."  Cyelle said. She flipped 8 silver on the table.  "Let's finish this with a bang."  She rolled the dice, rolling three fives, a one and a three. She rerolled the one and the three, getting two sixes out of it. Seems her luck had returned somewhat.  "War of Sixes."  She said, smiling.

Gon threw his 8 silver onto the table and rolled his five dice, getting three fours and two sixes.  "Mighty Guard."  Gon said as he watched the other player place eight silver in the pile, roll and get two fours, two sixes and a five. The other player looked up at Gon and Cyelle with a grin and said  "4-5-6. No dirty tricks."

Beating out Cyelle results closely, the other player grabbed the money and make his way out of the HOST, whistling with a bag full of silver. Gon and Cyelle had still got some profit, but not as much as the man that had won the final round. Cyelle stretched her arms above her and said:  "Well, guess we both ran out of luck as far as gambling concerned. 'Tis was good fun though."
 "I was always better at poker. But I'm glad we did well, we got about 10-20 silver each. Least we won't starve right?"  Gon replied as he rubbed his shoulders and got up.
  "We should probably head back. Thanks for asking me to come along, it's been good to spend time with you, we haven't done it in awhile."
After saying this, he smiled. Her friendship meant alot to Gon, but he likely wouldn't admit it to her.

Cyelle got up herself, a small smile on her lips.  "Indeed. It was great fun. And come on, starving isn't an issue to any of our little group after Jack's payment. Which reminds me, I should check if I have to do some shopping. I'll meet up with you at the Warrens in a small bit."
 "It was a joke, Cyelle. You know, that thing where you say something that isn't serious and can be funny? You're a Bard and you don't know that?"  Gon said with a smirk.
  "And alright, I'll head back now. Thanks for the game."
And with that, the half-orc headed back to the inn on his own.

Cyelle grinned.  "So was mine. Wait up, I'll walk with you some of the way back."
Cyelle walked with Gon to the street, walking with him half of the way before splitting up, waving him a cheerful goodbye.

 Grey:

 Spoiler: Battle of Wits
Grey wandered into the tavern still playing with the coin he had been given by the drow.

Looking up he managed to spot Cyelle at the bar, looking as beautiful as ever. But there was the incident with the wall of fire and the whole knocking him out in two slaps.

Walking over he sat down next to her.  "Nice day we are having isn't it?"  He said, trying to act casual.

There was something she was hiding and he was going to figure it out.

Cyelle was enjoying a wine when Grey approached her. Giving him a suspicious glance (Grey? Casual? Whaaat?), she answered:
 "Yes, indeed. Done some shopping and rummaging around."
"I see you've been shopping as well?"  She asked, referring to the coin he was playing with.

Grey looked down at the coin sliding it into an inside pocket of his coat.  "Yes, just some casual shopping you know. Nothing unusual."

"So, you were shopping as well. Go anywhere special, a potion store, a cooking store...a magic store?"  He said obviously putting too much emphasis on the last choice.

Cyelle raised one of her eyebrows.  "Well, yes. Just spending some of our hard earned money. Buying a new weapon, some potions.... Looking through some magic stuff. You know, the normal things magic users do."  She looked at him for a moment, and evidently decided to continue.  "I've been looking for somebody with the expertise to identify the strange flagon we found in the cultists sewer home. No success yet though."

Grey frowned she was good, oh she was good.

 "Oh, I thought you would have easily had the skills to identify that object."  He said trying to bait her. Not knowing that he was completely wrong about her.

 "You know, what with that wall of fire spell you can cast."  he said hinting at his train of thought.

Something sparkled in Cyelle eyes when she understood what he was getting at. This could be fun.
 "Well, you know. When you have the power to conjure walls of flame, you kind of lose the feeling for finer, weaker magic. If I tried to identify that object, I would probably shatter it."

Grey eyes widened, (I knew it I knew she was stronger than she let on) he thought to himself.

 "Ah, hmm yes well that's completely reasonable. If you have the item here, I'll identify it right away."  He looked slightly nervous.

 "Might I add you look lovely today."  This line, while not unusual in itself, sounded much different today. Like instead of flirting almost as if he was sucking up to her.

Cyelle smiled her most gorgeous smile.  "Thank you, Grey. Of course, the item is here."  She took the flagon out of her pack and handed it to him.  "No need to be nervous, Grey. We might have gotten off at the wrong foot, but I'm sure we can be good friends from now on."  Cyelle's smile became more sincere.  "You might be weird sometimes, but you're a trustworthy man."
 "Ahh yes, wonderful",  he said taking hold of the flagon.  "Yes of course, I'm very trustworthy. Anything you need."  he said before whispering something very quietly and very quickly.   "Just don't blast me to smithereens."  , before covering it with a cough.  "Aheam, then.."  he waved his hand over the flagon.  "Kosrinisiiv" , he said, casting identify in the draconic language.

Cyelle laughed softly.  "Of course I wont, you silly sorcerer. I'm not going to hurt you with magic, be at ease."  Cyelle smiled a small smile.  "Or with slaps, for that matter. I am sorry about that. Old habits from travelling alone are hard to subdue."

Grey narrowed his eyes at her, she was pretty...But that didn't mean he would just believe her right off the bat. That and the whole being slapped unconscious thing was a bit hard to ignore.  "Yeaah."  he said sounding a little unconvinced.

 "If anything, I'll refrain from it because Gon is an old friend. Would that make you feel better, Grey?"  Cyelle teased.

Grey made a face like he was still determining if she was lying or not.  "Well, the flask is just a simple Preserving flask...Useless for us"  He said quickly changing the subject. He handed the item back to the bard.  "Well, then..."  He stood up off his stool  "I should be leaving you to your business."  ( Better leave before she blasts me to bits ) He thought to himself, not out loud this time.

Cyelle smiled amusedly.  "Aw, but we were just having a good chat? Why not drink something with me? First Elven Blossomwine on me."  No way she was going to let him go so easily, she was having too much fun with this.

Grey paused as he left. ( Should i leave, no wait she might find that insulting and blast me .)  "Why yes a glass would be lovely."  he said trying to be polite as possible. He sat back down at the bar looking slightly nervous.

Cyelle suppressed her laughter and ordered another Elven Blossom Wine.  "So, Grey. Any successful seductions today?"  She said in a casual tone, taking a drink from her wine to stop herself from falling off her chair from chuckling.

Grey shot a look over at Cyelle ( IT'S A TRAP )  "What, no I haven't been flirting with anyone today. Certainly not..."  He took a quick sip from his wine. (last time she caught me flirting she slapped me.)  "Oh, I hear you tried to get Gon a girl. How did that go?"  Greys said quickly trying to divert attention away from his lie.

 "No flirting huh? Well that's new."  Cyelle said. He seemed to be telling the truth. Then again, it WAS Grey. A big grin appeared on her face with the mention of getting Gon a girl.  "Well, there was this pretty half-orc woman, you see. And I caught him starring at her big, perfect, round ..... tusks. So I used some magic to try and convince him silently to blend his subtlety and your womanizing. He didn't do it though. What a waste of pretty tusks that was."
 "What a waste."  Grey mumbled. He was not really into orcs or half orcs. So as such he would always try and hook Gon up. But Gon was to subin and only ever went at his own pace. He absently started to fondle the silver coin the drow woman had given him, not noticing he was doing it.  "Yes..well, umm how did you learn such powerful magic?"  He asked curious but scared she would take offense to his asking.

 "Well, I've travelled for over a decade, all over the continent. You pick up a lot of stuff from everywhere. Fire magic from Savanah, Illusions from the Elven lands, so on. If you want to learn, I heavily suggest a good amount of travel in your life."  Cyelle said sagely. She glanced at the coin Grey was fondling.  "So, that's with that coin? Something special you got today?"

Grey frowned  "Hmm, this I'm not sure yet...but it came with some great advice..."
He then raised an eyebrow  "A decade...how old were you when you left?"  He was curious, he had barely started his adventure and had been stuck in his home town until about two months ago.
He seemed to have for now forgotten his fear, he was very interested in all things to do with traveling and exploring.

Cyelle shrugged.  "I was 13 when I left the caravan. Got to learn under a master bard, travelling around to everywhere, that sorta thing."  She looked Grey in the eyes, now curious about that coin.  "So what kind of advice did you get together with your gift?"
 "Advice...i guess you could call it lifestyle advice."  He shrugged like it didn't matter. Eager to get back to the conversation of traveling he tried to direct the bard back on track.  "Traveling around must have been great fun, did you get to meet any kings or queens? Oh, oh have you been to the great capitol?"  He asked, getting excited, still forgetting how much she intimidated him.

 "Travelling is a wonderful thing indeed. I wouldn't live any other life."  Cyelle raised an eyebrow.  "Kings and queens? Nah, I'm good, but not yet THAT good, I'm afraid. I did meet a general once. Coincidentally in the Linorian capital."  Cyelle smiled deviously.  "I could tell you much much more, if you tell me more about that lifestyle advice you got. Who was the lucky advisor?"

Grey tsked:  "Well, I was told the advice from that drow woman at Jack's. It's not very interesting, just like how I should live my life different."  He said, not exactly lying.

 "I've only ever seen my home town...well at least until I started my adventure with Gon...What's the capitol like?...Are there lots of shops, lots of pretty girls?"  He said, letting a bit of his normal personality slip through.

Cyelle grinned.  "I hope you have a chance with her, Grey, I really do. And don't forcefully change your life, 'Tis not worth it."
Cyelle thought for a minute, sifting through her memories.  "Well, the capitol is big, far bigger than this city. A maze of stone and dirt. In the trading district you can find all sorts of good from all over the continent and even from beyond the vast oceans, if you search well enough. And pretty girls?"
Cyelle chuckled.  "Well yeah. Lot's of girls and women there trying to get their fortune using their looks there. In a multitude of ways. I'm no expert on that subject, but it would be right in your ally I expect."

 Cal:
 Beth: