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Finally... => Forum Games and Roleplaying => Roll To Dodge => Topic started by: Tiruin on October 14, 2012, 11:25:07 pm

Title: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Returning at a Future Date
Post by: Tiruin on October 14, 2012, 11:25:07 pm
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Spoiler: Disclaimer (click to show/hide)

~~Tales of Shattered Dreams~~
-or-
~The Sundered Earth: An RTD Adventure~
(http://i1090.photobucket.com/albums/i368/Tiruin/BastionAlphacoders.png?t=1350282631)

You wipe the sweat off your brow as you breathe in the heated air once more. It is the dawn, and the twin suns are visible in the sky above, shining in all their auburn glory on the land below.

You've heard the tales, you've learned from the elders, this world was more than this: thriving civilizations lush with resources, land and power dotted the Earth like a mutual plague. Tales of adventurers and scholarly adepts roamed the land, gathering knowledge by the handful and creating a utopian society wherein all races - monster or myth alike - could live together in a peaceful realm.

Now, however, you are but one of the lucky few who serve under a neutral banner in a hostile world; cloistered in this Bastion of refuge, for your own protection from the evils that lurk on the outside. Cloistered, for the basic reason that you exist. You are blessed with the mark of Ecid, one of the ancient gods who ruled over the Earth. With the power to sway the very notion of fate and time in your actions - whether for good or for ill - you are treated with suspicion, even hunted for that power.

It is said that nothing is permanent, and change affects every being. The status quo aims for a reversion into the past, to undo the mistakes made by their ancestors and to relive that which was once thought lost for eternity. You, however, have your own personal goals.

You hear the call of your leader resound through the area, and decide to meet up with your allies before any work can be done. As you bring your thoughts back to reality, you cannot help but notice others making their way along with you, practicing minor and major cantrips as they move.

But this will have to wait. You know you haven't introduced yourself to him yet, and he would probably need a sheet of identification to begin with. You have been in this fortress for more years than you can count, and teamwork is one thing instilled in your memories for survival.

The world awaits your presence. The Bastion is proud to bear your name.



Spoiler: What is this? Rules? (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Personality (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Character Creation (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: Skill list (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Tiruin on October 14, 2012, 11:25:47 pm
~The Repository~
-or-
Lore of the Bastion

You enter a room lit by lanterns and orbs of light, floating and drifting lazily in the air. Sunlight flows from the windows and skylights dotting the area. Rows of shelves hold manuscripts, scrolls and other devices used to contain information, preserved behind intangible layers of wards and runic symbols. The place is styled in the architecture of a gothic cathedral.

This was once the only place that reminded you of a world wider than the horizons you see. The Repository houses lore of ages past, including that from the first Age where civilization was at it's fledgling state, where myth and legend were facts and living figures.

Strangely, most of the books or tomes in the Bastion are worn and old, lacking information from within their yellowing pages. The silence of the place calms you.


~Concerning the World~
Spoiler: Races (click to show/hide)
~Concerning Magic~
Spoiler: Souls and Death (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: History in-world (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: On Magic (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Tiruin on October 14, 2012, 11:26:08 pm
~Characters~

1.
2.
3.
Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)
4.
5.
Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Tiruin on October 14, 2012, 11:26:30 pm
~Waitlist~

This is in no particular order. Hover your mouse pointer over colored words for their description.

Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Caellath on October 14, 2012, 11:27:02 pm
Here.
Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: adwarf on October 14, 2012, 11:28:16 pm
Spoiler: Trent Alzar (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Spinal_Taper on October 14, 2012, 11:29:41 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: freeformschooler on October 14, 2012, 11:36:10 pm
Ah, actually I don't have time for this after all. Very nice OP stuff though. Hopeful for success.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Tiruin on October 14, 2012, 11:37:03 pm
Ah, actually I don't have time for this after all. Very nice OP stuff though. Hopeful for success.
Had to PM you as you're one of those who asked in the concept phase. Thanks you ffs.  :)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Dwarmin on October 14, 2012, 11:45:51 pm
Spoiler: Shella Gavuatu (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 14, 2012, 11:56:29 pm
Ooh, nifty formatting in the OP. Very cool.

Reserved, watch this space.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: mesor on October 15, 2012, 12:26:57 am
Coming right up.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: lawastooshort on October 15, 2012, 03:20:49 am
Looks very nice Tiruin! I'm very short for time for the next few months though, so I think I will let someone join who'll do your effort justice... (and Dwarmin and Caellath's ehehe)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Ochita on October 15, 2012, 04:43:35 am
Spoiler: Character sheet! (click to show/hide)

Whew! And done.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Skyrunner on October 15, 2012, 09:13:23 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 15, 2012, 09:28:34 am
Spoiler: Ecidona sel-Mhrabann (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Toaster on October 15, 2012, 09:33:36 am
I have an idea for a character, so sure, I'll submit a sheet.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 15, 2012, 02:30:05 pm
Oh, why not. I'll throw in my character idea as well:
Spoiler: Krikt (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Toaster on October 15, 2012, 03:04:35 pm
Done.

Spoiler: Systar (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: ExKirby on October 15, 2012, 04:51:25 pm
Spoiler: Alexander Kyrby (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Tiruin on October 16, 2012, 09:15:52 am
Oh wow. I never expected this much. O_o

Anyway, I've edited part of the OP for clarity. The third skill will be rolled for, and the second is...in the works. PM, perhaps to fix or adjust. The skill on your inventory will work as:
1-2 = weapon
3-4 = armor
5-6 = Trinket
With the bonus being according to how the item is related to your character/class.

@Toaster, you need three items.  :P
@Dwarmin: If you want to edit your second, please PM me.  :)
@ExKirby: You only get to pick the first skill.
@mesor: You have a bow...and claws? Also, mistakes in your bio. 'Fox'.

I've sent PMs for those who currently have a sheet [Look at the edit time and the time of this post to confirm]. Don't worry - the time limit is a long time away Because GM is panicking. :D

Also, changed the skill list. No percentile chances anymore [Silver Tongue/Mental Acuity].
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Dwarmin on October 16, 2012, 09:37:22 am
I'm fine with mine, Tiru. ^^
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Tiruin on October 16, 2012, 09:43:20 am
Was in the process of PM'ing a general idea, then realized that my viewpoint is different from any of yours.

Instead, could those who have their sheets finished PM me a general idea of how they want their second, innate skill to be like? That would help a lot.

Thank you.  :)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Toaster on October 16, 2012, 11:51:28 am
Oh, it has to be three exactly?  I was fine with two, but I'll add in a third.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: IronyOwl on October 17, 2012, 05:10:56 am
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Joben on October 17, 2012, 11:45:34 pm
I'm tempted to sign up to support your game, and it looks intesting and like you've put a lot of effort in. But I'm not sure I have the time right now though. I'll be watching for sure though. :)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: An RTD Adventure
Post by: Tiruin on October 18, 2012, 12:18:50 pm
Previous: In which a story begins. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.0) | Current: In which an introduction begins. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3706067#msg3706067)  | Next: In which beginnings start, and endings end. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3710790#msg3710790)


"In time we learn that there is always hope. Hope to prevail; to succeed. Every action has a reason. History is filled with these facts."


You ponder on the idea of freedom as your footsteps echo through the marble halls, a freedom to show your potential to the world at large. The sunlight mimics your thoughts, shifting and waving on the granite floor, giving a semblance of peace and tranquility - almost making you forget what would lie ahead, until the shade shows you the path.

Soon enough, you enter the confines of an enormous hall which is flanked by large, detailed suits of armor and supported by curved spires. Lit by the natural lighting and burning torches, florid tapestries covered the walls, adjacent to stained glass windows bearing the elemental signs. A simple chest lies at your end of the hall, opposite the open entrance. The floor bears a concentric circle, filled with curving lines and arching bends. At the middle of the hall are the rest of your allies - people of varying races and ages, each with differing characteristics but no doubt gathered for the same purpose.

Moments pass in silence until you hear a different voice come from the entrance of the hall - in between the open doors, a tall man stands. Clad in a grey tunic and cloaked in white cloth, in his hands lay a single scroll.


"All gathered and ready, I see."

He smiles as he strides towards you. "I am the Seneschal of the Bastion - our leader is occupied at the moment and has entrusted me with directing our first batch of 'graduates', as he likes to call it. While you may have heard of our history and how our forces are spread wide across the land, you are specially picked for your purpose. A group force, instead of a pair or single man entity. A banner of hope for our world, I can only guess. Men and women gathered from most of the sentient races in the world, and brought under one cause.

"Now, most of what you know is only a minute fragment of what goes on in the world and danger lurks even in the safest of places, to repeat common warning. But I may be going ahead of myself, a moment must be taken. Only five will exit these halls at the time being, and their names have been chosen."

The scroll is unraveled and the names are read out.


Quote from: The List
Shella Gavuatu[1]
Gurrath Halsen [2]
Eisen Narthale[4]
Ecidona sel-Mhrabann[5]
Sal'savira[6]

"Those mentioned are to comprise our first group. While you may converse amongst yourselves, I'd be happy to handle any questions before I brief you of what you would be facing."

His smile doesn't waver as he looks at each of you, as if studying your very existence by his warm gaze.



((Everyone is present at this point, but after this the chapter officially starts with the five selected. The third skills for the rest will be PM'ed or edited into the Characters post after this because of personal time constraints.))

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Note (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 18, 2012, 12:59:35 pm
((So, who's on next in case anyone perishes?))

Krikt pokes the people in the room with her jaws and antennae to better acquaint herself with their bodily proportions, starting with Sal'savira, the oddest one from the away team.

They seem quite alright, if a bit strange. Standoffish, maybe. Not one with the group. Then again, there is no group - not yet. No bond has formed, no hands are joined, no minds are united. Least of all with her. However, they may become proper yet. Be like the hive. Lose their selves, but gain more in return. Sacrifice freedom for meaning. A worthy sacrifice, and one that Krikt herself hopes to be able to make one day.

After musing for a moment, she moves where all can hear her and focuses her will to speak these words:

"Be as one, you who are chosen. Be proper. Be worthy."

Having said everything she wanted, Krikt proceeds to begin searching the room for bits and pieces of loose matter to potentially use later. It was a compulsion of sorts for her.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Dwarmin on October 18, 2012, 01:15:16 pm
Shella was beginning to regret this. Pomp and circumstance. She leaned against the wall, arms crossed defiantly, hat shrouding her features.

She really wasn't interested in a Grand Crusade to save the world-only the small part of it that mattered to her. Tagga was still out there-somewhere. The traitor was still out there. So many times, how close had she been? Only for...fate...to spirit opportunity away again. She had not lost Hope of rescuing Tagga...or repaying the traitor...but she had lost Hope for herself.

Would her sister even recognize the person she had become?

...

...The mark, she had honestly never wondered about. It was a Gods mark, but that was not uncommon among her people. When she met these strange people, they had said it was special...that she had been marked for something. She had slowly come to the decision, that her quest was somehow tied to it.

In Shellas mind, the Gods were keeping her from completing her Oaths. If they required some quest-some vague prophecy fulfilled-it was just another thing she had to do. Another...delay. Delays. Every minute a delay. One minute more torment her sister endured, one minute closer to death. One more minute the Traitor lived, gloated.

Every minute was agony-and she wondered why she was wasting her time here.

Survival, of course. The Mark was considered special. She had no doubt they would have hunted her down if she had refused-them, or others. Apparently there was some sort of Cult that went around forcibly removing them from their owners, for some reason.

So, Shella would learn to use this power, if power it was-or get rid of it, spitting in the face of the Gods. Or die trying, the most common disclaimer.

There was nothing else to be done about it.

Nothing at all.



Shella had learned one thing already about the mark. It gave one a certain...sixth sense about people. She felt each person was unique, but the balance was off. It was a balance she felt oddly comfortable with.

Almost imperceptibly, she nodded to the Crow-Woman. The Malkavian. It was only partially friendly, more a grudging respect. Shella sensed the soul of one who was like her. A Dark soul-but by fates design, not by choice.

...

Being poked by an oversized insect was not her idea of friendly camaraderie. She edged away as it approached her.

"...I suppose someone should start the proper introductions...I am Shella of Clan Gavuatu." She said, taking off her hat and looking them all in the eye-the Orcish way.

To her surprise, there was little fear in them. Perhaps this group was made of sterner stuff than she had thought.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Toaster on October 18, 2012, 01:52:06 pm
Systar shrugged.  No real surprise they didn't want him- as far as he knew he had been here the shortest amount of time.  This was all strange and new to him, anyway- one minute he's wandering the streets and next he's some sort of "chosen one."  He really didn't understand most of what they were going on about, but he was interested in going out into the wilderness.

He'd just hang around here, learning what he could, until he was needed.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: IronyOwl on October 18, 2012, 06:46:48 pm
((Sal'savira's mark is on the back of her left hand. I did mention it, but in her bio.))


Sal'savira cocked her head slightly at the ant's pawings, inspecting it right back. Such a curious creature, and a curious speech.

She then turned her stare to the green-skinned one. Also curious.

"I am Sal'savira of no place in particular," she said, trying to match the style of the orc's introduction without having a noteworthy affiliation. She kept staring at the orc, examining her tusk ornaments, her hair, her bracers, and generally anything that looked interesting about her.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Dwarmin on October 18, 2012, 07:44:30 pm
Shella's oath bearing tusk rings bear small, spiraling runes in several primitive languages, even a few of your own-the left set seems to imply anger, rage, hatred and vengeance. The right is no less stoic-but it seems to represent promises, sorrow, love of family, and protection.

Her hair seems a wild weave of thick black, but soft and well kept-obviously polished by years living among the elements. You spot the nub of an ornate bone brooch that no doubt doubles as a comb-tucked away, almost hidden, above her left scalp.

Her bracers remind you of the giant Ant that just inspected you. You guess she's faced something of that kind before, and obviously not friendly. The outward facing spines seem to have been sharpened enough to act as weapons in a pinch.

Aside from her obvious Orcishness, you can't help but notice her armor doesn't match in any fashion-it just fits together, a patchwork of chain, leather and plate, along with chitine and furs-distinctive designs from at least a dozen different cultures you can identify, as well as a few animals you don't.

"Well met, Sal'savira."

Shella studied her new rival in turn.

For her own examination, she was interested in the Malkavians natural weapons-if Sal'savira was used to employing them in battle...even among Orc warriors, using their fangs and tusks to battle was considered beneath a thinking race, though not by any means unpopular in a crunch.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: IronyOwl on October 18, 2012, 10:18:54 pm
Sal'savira's beak looks fairly unpleasant to be pecked with, but it's probably too unwieldy to properly use as a thrusting weapon. The serrated edges probably give it a nasty bite as well.

The claws on her hands are fairly large and decently sharp, with more than a passing resemblance to the claws on a bird of prey. The claws on her feet take this to a new level- though they're less curved, they're nearly large enough to pass for daggers.

Despite all this, you doubt she's accustomed to using them in battle, or at least you doubt she has been recently. Her beak lacks refinements or scars, suggesting she's neither intentionally maintaining it as a weapon nor using it in rough conditions. Her claws are likewise, with her fingers tapering to points too fine to survive a confrontation and her toes appearing well-maintained but not properly sharpened.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Caellath on October 18, 2012, 11:13:36 pm
Eisen stood still and in silence, watching the rest of the group he would be sent with, his face obscured by the large hood that covered most of this head. His efficient longbow was slung on his back, firmly held by a strap on the back of his coat. Quivers rested on both sides of his thighs, mostly due to his ambidexterity, flexibility and the need to always have an arrow at hand if one was trusting agility to fight with a bow in close-quarters.

Overall, he seemed like one of the rangers of his group. A warrior clad in green, a shadow in the forests. But he was far from one of them, in fact. Lacking the appropriate combat training and too young, Eisen was only a young man trying to find new experiences outside of the Bastion, finally having a reunion with nature, an encounter he had longed for during the entire time he had been cloistered inside that fortress of stone and steel.

He didn't complain about nor move while facing the giant ant creature's strange antics. In fact, Krikt remembered him of the outside world, as some of his companions with wilder features did. They were part of nature, as he was.

"No questions." he said curtly, to save the man the effort of looking over him whilst he had no questionst to be answered.

Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 19, 2012, 05:29:53 am
Ecidona couldn't resist smirking. She could already tell many of her companions were oh-so-serious, probably obsessed with words like 'duty' or 'honor'. Hopefully they'd cheer up soon enough. She echoed the foxfolk's statement - 'No questions!' - and took a couple of wandering steps, looking for anyone more welcoming. All of her companions looked like they could handle themselves in a fight, bearing arms and armor. No magic-users, though - she thanked the gods for that.

She ended up on the grim-looking foxfolk and shrugged. Ecidona stepped to his side and blinked in surprise - the hood had been covering his face, but she could see he was much younger than she'd thought. Barely a boy... 'Greetings,' she said, 'I'm Ecidona. What do you think we'll find? Ever been outside the Bastion?'
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Caellath on October 19, 2012, 08:03:21 am
She ended up on the grim-looking foxfolk and shrugged. Ecidona stepped to his side and blinked in surprise - the hood had been covering his face, but she could see he was much younger than she'd thought. Barely a boy... 'Greetings,' she said, 'I'm Ecidona. What do you think we'll find? Ever been outside the Bastion?'

"Oh, Greetings." Eisen answered. "I'm Eisen Narthale, pleased to meet you. And as for the matter of what we'll find...Most likely, trouble and dangers." he said nonchalantly. "We'll probably be sent on missions which may end with our deaths."

He turned his head and looked at a wall, as if looking through it and the scenery outside. "I lived a good part of my life outside the Bastion, and I miss the outside world."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Ochita on October 19, 2012, 10:57:56 am
Gurrath stands against the wall, apparently enjoying a little bit of reading, going over a small tattered with age book. Sometimes he would lower the book a bit, and scan across the room, but otherwise he mostly kept to himself.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 19, 2012, 11:27:48 am
'Oh, well,' Ecidona said. The poor boy was so serious for his age. 'I've only been out there once. But I'm happy to go now - I'm sure you lot can protect me from any danger we might stumble upon. I've heard such amazing things about the world out there.'

She looked around the room.

'So, what do you think of our companions? They seem to be a bit... solemn, I suppose. There's pain there they cannot let go of, I think.'
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Dwarmin on October 19, 2012, 11:49:32 am
He turned his head and looked at a wall, as if looking through it and the scenery outside. "I lived a good part of my life outside the Bastion, and I miss the outside world."

Shella interjected.

"...I've only been here a few days, and I already miss the outside world...this place is like a prison.

As much for keeping us in, as others out I would guess." She clenched her fists, imagining punching through the wall and being free again.

'Oh, well,' Ecidona said. The poor boy was so serious for his age. 'I've only been out there once. But I'm happy to go now - I'm sure you lot can protect me from any danger we might stumble upon. I've heard such amazing things about the world out there.'

She looked around the room.

'So, what do you think of our companions? They seem to be a bit... solemn, I suppose. There's pain there they cannot let go of, I think.'

She chuckled at that.

"...The Scholar-Warlod Angral of Clan Tharlma said 'Undergoing Agony and Hardship are the experiences that bring one closest to Divinity, for one proves to himself, undeniably, that he is alive-to forgive ones driving motivation-be it fear, rage, sorrow, or love-akin to removing your arm with a blunt blade, making you half a warrior'.

My people would say that Pain makes you stronger-it forces you to adapt, pushes you beyond your limits, reaffirms your faith in the oaths you've taken.

So, why would you want to let go of your pain?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Caellath on October 19, 2012, 11:52:38 am
'So, what do you think of our companions? They seem to be a bit... solemn, I suppose. There's pain there they cannot let go of, I think.'

"Oh, they seem fine people. Maybe just a matter of opening up...Or maybe they are acting solemnly due to the fact this is a serious event." he says, pulling back his hood and flashing a bright, boyish smile at her while revealing his face fully. Slightly sharper canines are the only feral part in sight, the hood hiding the top of his head with ease.

Eisen could have been cut off from the world he loved, but it didn't mean he forgot how to smile. "Of course, some are in pain...But at least part of our thirst for a bit of freedom will be quenched, even if with false liberty."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 19, 2012, 12:06:57 pm
Ecidona smiled back at Eisen. 'Well, I suppose you could see it that way, but personally, I think it ought to be more of a celebration. Maybe we'll get to that later.'

The Orc's interjection wasn't wholly unwelcome, she was interested in speaking with one of her species.

'Sounds like a fascinating person. I would very much like to learn more of this warlord... Angral, was it? You know, there's a shameful lack of Orc philosophy in the archives. They would appreciate a collection of your people's thoughts, I'm sure,' she said. 'It is an interesting point of view. Fairly common, of course. But surely you agree there is danger in clinging to pain too much? One might become obsessed with it, cultivate and nurture it rather than heal it, and thus poison themselves... it is better to move on, in the end.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Introductions
Post by: Dwarmin on October 19, 2012, 12:40:58 pm
"I do not doubt you would enjoy it." She said, smiling lightly. "Angral was also a Dictator-a monster, an enthusiastic torturer and a madorc, some say. He killed thousands of innocents in his lifetime, until a group of Human and Elves took his head while he slept for the bounty on him.

But, he was very well spoken-dictating his words and thoughts to a trusted advisor-Angral removed his Advisors eyes so he could not learn to write, forcing him to reciting the words on memory alone. To his credit, he passed it on more or less perfectly before he died.

And that is, coincidentally, why there is little Orc literature here-it is not that we do not know how to write and read-but those few Orcs who believe themselves worthy enough to have something to say guard their thoughts and feelings jealously, not making written records for fear they will be stolen by others. Lesser Orcs are conditioned to not let slip their thoughts and emotions so blatantly, lest they be seen as challenging the status-quo via the Clan Chief.

We are a possessive people, you see-our strength, and our weakness."

'It is an interesting point of view. Fairly common, of course. But surely you agree there is danger in clinging to pain too much? One might become obsessed with it, cultivate and nurture it rather than heal it, and thus poison themselves... it is better to move on, in the end.

"Surely

Talgrant of Clan Energa said "One must be wary of becoming so attached to his swordarm, that he forgets to sheath it when he returns to his home-an unminded blade can harm and frighten those which he loves, and he harms himself so doing."

...I would agree with that-and, that is why I have vowed not to return to my home until I find the source of my Pain and end it. Or it ends me, in all fairness. I have only an empty place to return to. What I love-is out there, waiting for me..."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Tiruin on October 19, 2012, 11:42:49 pm
As the conversation flows, a young man approaches the Seneschal and whispers into his ear as he bends down to listen. Soon after, he calls you for attention as you all move outside the keep and into a flat, grassy courtyard. Trees of towering heights are scattered along the sidelines, decorating the ramparts with their greenery. Looking past the Seneschal, you can see other buildings near the outer portion of the bailey, including the wooden structures which make up the village nearby - conjoined for easier travel and defense, separated only by the spiderweb pattern of roads, passageways and alleys.

"I fear it was through my own fault, or the lack of information presented that no questions were raised. Surely you will have more, or perhaps even less. Nevertheless, let's begin."

You hear the sounds of footsteps come from behind, and for those who choose to look, see two men and two women in their surcoats along with common garb, carrying the chest you've seen earlier and setting it down for all to see before opening it, with the Seneschal moving to extract its contents.

"Use them for communication." he says, holding up several amulets and pendants, seemingly worthless trinkets hanging by their corresponding chains with a small transparent gemstone in the middle. "These allow any person to see through, and as if, they have the eyes and ears of the others who hold their copies and acting as easily hidden communication devices for our people far and beyond, though capable of recording and 'memorizing' events--with mechanisms separate from our biological sensitivity. They channel the energy of your distinct elements inside them, so do not worry about it being used for other means than your own, they cannot be subverted for other causes. These ones have been enchanted to allow you all to speak with one another as if they were right next to you, through sheer force of will alone as well as certain members of the Bastion if need be.

"However, a word of caution. It should not be struck with sudden force. Its composure is akin to your own, and thus, follows the rules of the world. Because if you do," he held his index finger aloft and flicked one of the amulets. What followed was a simultaneous glow of amber from the gemstones of the rest along with a sudden, brilliant flash of light. "This will occur. Your 'element' will be flashed to others connected to the amulet. Sensory interference is also to be aware of. While none else as far as the enchantment is concerned may use these but you, they are not foolproof.

"Be warned."


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~Chapter I~
-Turn 0: The Beginning-


The four soldiers act as an escort as you proceed to the Eastern Gatehouse, separating towards their posts, only to return minutes later with the usual travel commodities: rations, horses for mounts, equipment for tents and other amenities, including five flasks of golden liquid.

"I had to convince our Artificier for the last one. Potions of Skill, as the people call it. The ability to correct your mark in the blink of an eye, they say, yet for only a moment. But enough of my rambling. We have a bandit problem.

"Now while we'd let the local enforcers deal with lawless factions, we were given direct notice from the people for aid. What we face is a successful group of ill-mannered louts; the rowdy and over-zealous types who think they can take on the world by themselves. Now I say 'successful' meaning they have managed to get their hands on one of the artifacts under study of the Capital's own repository, one of the most heavily guarded areas in the land. We've only received message a day ago, and still do not know how this had occurred. Fortunately, that is our reason of being called in: no signifying coat of arms or symbols of allegiance to any one group or nation. If any innocents are met en route, you don't have to worry about being found out.

"Unfortunately, local scouts have only pinpointed a general region where the bandits may have set camp in preparation for the Long Dark. Hill and forested terrain. Things can get pretty nasty if you're not under warding barriers at that time, especially with an artifact of intangible power.


"Do you have any last words before we send you off?"

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Caellath on October 20, 2012, 01:13:26 am
Eisen lowered his hood until it obscured his face once again, as it was usual for his people's soldiers and rangers to do. He put both arms behind his back in a gesture of attention, one of the hands grasping the tip of the bow, as if preparing for combat.
"None."

They would be sent to deal with bandits...He wondered how efficient and deadly they were.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: IronyOwl on October 20, 2012, 05:23:47 am
Sal'savira tilted her head. An interesting mission, but fairly straightforward on its face.

"No questions," she answered.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Skyrunner on October 20, 2012, 06:07:26 am
((The first thing the title reminded me of is To Kill a Mockingbird.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Dwarmin on October 20, 2012, 03:05:36 pm
"Best get on with it..."

Shella didn't mind such a task. She generally disliked lawbreakers, anyway. This lot might be a bit more, which could make it interesting.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Ochita on October 20, 2012, 03:09:00 pm
Gurrath gives a slow nod of the head.

"I'll believe I will be fine."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 20, 2012, 03:42:26 pm
'Let's get going, then!'
Title: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 1: Freedom | Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Tiruin on October 21, 2012, 05:20:51 am
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The group mount their steeds, and with little to say, make their way out of the courtyard and past the gatehouse. It was a particularly silent occasion only interrupted by the mumblings of the Seneschal, muffled by the horses.

"First day on the job...did I explain it well enough? No matter. The rest of you, follow me.

"We're going rat hunting."




-Turn 1: Freedom-

Formal greetings and trained pleasantries: All these are waived as you make your way from the Bastion. The people you pass by smile and wave, taking a moment from their labors to express their sentiments. The horses you ride on are trained, more knowledgeable about the area than any guide or guardsman, bypassing villagers, children and animals - dogs, cats and salamanders, more common amongst others - they moved mostly of their own accord, at a rhythmic gallop until the outermost walls of the area. A guard complement hurriedly opens the gate, bidding you farewell with a salute on their chests and their spears to their shields as you pass through.

Following that, you ride at full speed onto the dirt road, feeling the wind flowing against your body, making any loose instruments billow against the current. The weather takes on a jovial mood with the cloudless sun shining high in the sky, reflecting its radiant glory on the grassy plains below. Field upon field of tall, green grass undulates in the distance. You take a moment to enjoy the scenery and wonder how this all seemed a time before.

Seeing a river ahead wider and deeper than a whole trade caravan, the feeling of caution strikes you as your horses diverge from the main road; there is no visible bridge to cross but the horses move on unafraid. It is wide enough to measure at least thirty men from head to toe, and despite the rough terrain, wonder is given to those who think they can jump the pass.

Suddenly, your amulets flash a brilliant green right before you touch the edge of the river and the world shifts in place. What was to be a drop into the cold, wet currents was now replaced by the image of the same dirt road you had just traversed. On each side of you lay fields of wheat and other plants, much like what you would see in arable land.

[6]

Your horses move along the road at a level trot, their ears shifting occasionally at the slightest of sounds.

Soon enough, the boredom of silence is broken as you see two women - one of whom being nearly the age of maturity, and the other of a younger age, both dressed in common clothing along with pieces of leather to match.

The older one speaks, and you note her accent being different from the local dialect. It sounds lighter, and more fluent--pronounced. "Hello travelers! What brings you to our lands? Are you magi of some sort?"


Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 1: Freedom | Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 21, 2012, 06:31:17 am
Ecidona smiled down from her steed. These children looked healthy and happy enough for all that tales of the horrors outside the Bastion. Even if there was a bandit problem...

'Mages? she repeated, shaking her head gently. 'Almost the opposite, actually. Why do you ask?'
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 1: Freedom | Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Dwarmin on October 21, 2012, 06:41:46 am
Shella was fine letting Ecidona talk. She was never much of a Diplomat.

Still, she kept an eye out for an Ambush while the others talked

Shella wasn't quite lax as the others might be. Surely, these two could be simple villagers, curious about them-but they could also be female bandits, luring travelers in and learning their strength before an attack, using their pretty guises.

(Seemingly) Unarmed women were viewed as non-threatening in Human Culture, she supposed. Her Orc senses told her to be on guard-her more Humanoid senses found it all a bit funny. If they started flinging sharp throwing knives from their bodices at the group, Shella would know she had been right. They honestly looked harmless.

She chuckled out loud to herself

Ah, Orc Humor.

She idly stroked her horses mane, while her other hand rested comfortably on the stock of her Slurbow.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 1: Freedom | Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Ochita on October 21, 2012, 10:44:07 am
Gurrath Sighed, and kept his hands on the reins, spear resting comfortably on his back. Hearing the Orc chuckling, he turns his head towards her direction, and raises an eyebrow.

Look around the area.

If the Orc was chuckling, with a hand resting on that.. Bow thing of hers, maybe she's suspecting an ambush? While Gurrath really didn't want to think that these two children would be part of an ambush, he decided that maybe he should keep an eye out for any possible bandits using this as a diversion.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 1: Freedom | Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Tiruin on October 21, 2012, 10:48:41 am
'Mages? Almost the opposite, actually. Why do you ask?'

"I'm just interested in magic, ma'am. Heard tales of their power from Father...

"You aren't Mage Hunters then?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 1: Freedom | Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Caellath on October 21, 2012, 08:41:47 pm
Eisen's eyes narrowed and his pupils thinned into slits as his eyes, still obscured by the hood, started to shift their gaze, always wary. Even if he preferred not to be always on his toes, he had ro remember himself the outside world was still dangerous.

And something slightly different had happened just now, hadn't it?

Try to discern anything different in the area...Is there any hint of illusion magic, ambush or similar?
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 1: Freedom | Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: IronyOwl on October 22, 2012, 12:23:40 am
Sal'savira tilted her head at the pair. Curious, curious. So interested in mages and mage hunters.

"Do you ask all such travelers so?" she asked. "What professions are yours? What are Mage Hunters? Have you seen many mages?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 1: Freedom | Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Tiruin on October 22, 2012, 01:12:48 am
"Do you ask all such travelers so? What professions are yours? What are Mage Hunters? Have you seen many mages?"
"I've only seen what I've heard, um, miss. Imagination and all, what my father and his father before him say but I've seen no mage. And I'm guessing hunters based on what was said. Their- opposites."

She considers the idea before replying, "I've not asked many travelers that. Usually nobody else cares to speak to a villager in their travels. You..aren't lost, are you? Bandits have been spotted nearby."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 1: Freedom | Ch. 1: To Catch A Thief
Post by: Caellath on October 22, 2012, 12:24:01 pm
...Didn't all seem too quiet?

"Do you happen to know where those bandits would happen to be?" Eisen asked, momentarily turning away from his moment of distraction and smiling at the women.

He then decided to ask something that was in his mind. "If there are bandits roaming these lands, why are you alone here? Wouldn't that put you both in danger?"

Ask
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: Tiruin on October 22, 2012, 02:53:42 pm
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Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)

-Turn 2: By the Wayside-

The woman brightens up at the reactions made by the group, whether from their liveliness or that they weren't 'mages', it wasn't sure. "Bandits are bandits, avoiding the law...I'll answer you all on the way, to save time. Just keep your steed away from me, I'm-... allergic to horses."

Seeing as there was no danger from moving and chatting, and doing both, the five continue along the dust road, occasionally glancing at the fields of wheat flanking them. The only protection they had from a probable ambush were the fences put up by the locals to ward off any stray animals from grazing, and they were in the middle of the path. Further ahead lay a forested region atop an inclined plane, slowly forming a hilly forest, mostly of tall pine, ash, birch and other deciduous trees stretching from off the farmland.

The shadows lengthened, and the noon sun slowly descended from it's apex in the sky, casting brilliant shadows in the clouds, forming an illusion of coming rain. The wheat shifts and turns to the change in the weather, as Shella observes while keeping a hand on her crossbow. An ominous sign, the weather was.

Eisen inspects his Amulet, remembering the boundaries of the Bastion contained wards and presumed Ley-lines which connected the borders to other areas of land nearby. He remembers being told of inscriptions on natural objects which react to living organisms nearing their vicinity and the whimsical thought of teleportation strikes him. While the times have come and gone since his leave of his home, the notion of teleportation would surprisingly explain how the sudden shift of scenery took place. The concept of 'magic', as done by the layman, concerns itself with feelings and sensation-a wholly intangible concept, but something of value to the mind. However, no direct answer presents itself.

"If there are bandits roaming these lands, why are you alone here? Wouldn't that put you both in danger?"

The older woman turns to look back, keeping a fair distance in front while looking onwards. She smiles and gestures onward, speaking as you go. "I don't know exactly where the bandits are, being bandits and all, but they're crafty. Very resourceful given with what they have."

"There is a brook nearby where you could refresh your canteens or waterskins, especially the horses as it seems you've came a long way over yonder. To the North it lies, left junction at the end of this road meeting the forest.

"Is the fact that we're alone concern a traveler like you, by the way? I'm but a-... villager. I guess. In a hierarchical way. Nobody would mind me and I'm sure I can take care of myself. People mostly look out for their own skins nowadays, or so Father said.

"An affront to any of us wouldn't gain much, still. I only carry what I can, and I'm sure you're all ready for facing what you adventurous types would do in case of danger. Or are you mercenaries? People of the traveling companies? I won't question that though, I'm just glad to see well-armed folk in the wilderlands. Ah, but I suppose you're on a hunt- nevermind that thought...

"Ambush, or any sort of danger is a viable idea though, I've to admit. These lands are mostly peaceful and are only threatened by outside forces...but back to the matter at hand.

She gestures in front of her, down at the fork in the road. "Here is where we'll part. Or, there actually. It's nice to talk with others once in a while."

Moments pass until she stops, with you following suit. She sighs as she turns to look at you, a concerned expression on her face along with a hint of disappointment, or tension in her voice. "Just my first word- ah, I mean first impression, but you aren't mages?"


Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Notes - Updated (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: Caellath on October 22, 2012, 03:15:42 pm
The foxfolk man smiled. These peasant women were certainly curious.

"Yes, miss, we are not mages." Eisen repeated what was already said.

He noticed something, deciding on asking about it. "And why hasn't the younger miss talked so far?"

Ask.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 22, 2012, 03:16:37 pm
((Do the waitlisters get a live feed from the amulets? As in, do they see everything the away team sees involuntarily?))

The rat hunt was a useful activity, even if it lacked the colony-level importance of the travelers' task. However, even this task had its interesting distractions, such as the amulet. Krikt appreciated the information from the amulet. It gave a pleasant feeling of oneness that she savored quite a bit. In fact, she couldn't help but send a message to the team when she witnessed the odd communication of the human females:

"This is Krikt. The humans are strange. Advise extreme caution or immediate extermination and recycling."

The recycling part was especially important, she felt. Human warfare was so wasteful - so many bones left on fields and so much flesh left uneaten. An absolute shame, that, and a tactical error as well.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: Tiruin on October 22, 2012, 03:19:15 pm
((Do the waitlisters get a live feed from the amulets? As in, do they see everything the away team sees involuntarily?))
((Ayup! Think of it as looking in your minute scrying glass. Concave//Convex, how you see it.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: IronyOwl on October 22, 2012, 03:40:11 pm
"I have some minor skill with divination," Sal'savira answered, curious about the woman's strange feelings. "Or perhaps you mean this?"

She leaned forward on her horse to show her mark.

Talk, show Mark.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: Caellath on October 23, 2012, 12:37:05 am
Eisen put a finger to his chin, half of his hand disappearing into the darkness proportioned by the hood. "The Marks capitalizes on our affinities and grants us power."

He stared at Sal-savira.
"They are a bit far and may not see it. They apparently only know people like us by the name of 'mages', I believe. Also, even the idea of revealing the mark may be wronged."

Eisen felt as if he shouldn't have made much effort before the departure. Now he was mentally tired and his mind wasn't working properly as he tried to think about the situation and cope with once again seeing the outside world.
"And that area seems to match the Seneschal's description on the area the bandits have taken hold of."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: Caellath on October 24, 2012, 12:46:41 am
((Double post and bump! Actions please. :P

Also, why u no talk? It makes kitty sad.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: Dwarmin on October 24, 2012, 03:27:26 am
"I'm going to check around." Shella announced, hieing her horse into a trot.

Action: Look for what was disturbing the wheat
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 24, 2012, 10:08:33 am
((Oh, sorry, I didn't think you required an action from me now. It's a pretty stupid thought now that I think about it.))

'My, you're cagey, aren't you?' Ecidona saId, more to herself than anyone else. She noticed the others' showing their marks and turned her hand around to show her palm.

Show the Mark alongside the others
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 2: By the Wayside
Post by: Ochita on October 24, 2012, 03:18:31 pm
Gurrath sighs, and decides that if the orc's going to be poking around in the wheat, he might as well join her, make sure that no-one gets the jump on her.
"Yes, we all have a mark, thats pretty much it though."
Look around with Shella.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 3: Sharing
Post by: Tiruin on October 25, 2012, 08:27:02 am
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-Turn 3: Sharing-

"Not mages? Well, that's disappointing." The woman replied, before tapping the shoulder of her companion. "She doesn't speak much, incredibly shy, but she's a good listener."

"I have some minor skill with divination," Sal'savira answered, curious about the woman's strange feelings. "So I could relate. Or by your definition of mages, perhaps you mean this?" She leaned forward on her horse to show her mark.

The pair approached the party with hesitation, curious as why they were holding out their hands, or talons, as was the case.

The older woman moves close with a smile on her face, but after taking a quick look at the signs, looks at you in the eye with apparent fear on her face. "This is not good. They can see. You're outnumbered. Run. Now."



Meanwhile, at the rear end of the group, Shella and Gurrath urge their horses off to the nearer side, poking through the wheat. While most of what they see is hindered by the wooden fence blocking the path, a glint somewhere to their left catches Shella's eye. Nudging Gurrath, the pair dismount and cross the fence, sifting through the wheat while keeping their weapons close at bay.

A few steps into field and the source of the light becomes more distinct, hardening into the shape of an arrowhead poking out from the thick screen of plant life. The wielder isn't visible, but his voice -- their voices can be heard all too clearly, similar to young men, low in pitch and deep in tone. Gruff, yet cultured.

[6]

"This is stupid! Just shoot her now where she stands and let's end it!"

"Don't be daft. Just let these people pass, they aren't the mages we're looking for. Let's not spend our valuables this early."

"You have got to be joking me."

"Joking what?"

"What you said right th- look, nevermind. Let's just let these people pass."

"Hold it, she's signalling to us. They...aren't not mages?"

"Err, then that's a 'yes - we attack', or a 'yes - we need more men'?"

Gurrath steps on a dry twig. Its cries of pain and agony are heard all around as its body splits in twain.

"I don't think it's a signal to us. I think it's a signal that says 'yes, we've got people eavesdropping on us.'"

You can see the arrowhead being drawn back, and hear the subtle sound of a weapon unsheathed.

[6 > 5]

Which is only stopped by the sound of someone being hit on the back of the head.

"What do you think you're doin'? It's just that strange cloaked person's horse, all nervous and strutty. Erm, keep that blade drawn anyway. D' you think it saw us?"

"We're seven people. They're surrounded. Those things can't smell us or see us thanks to the wind. Just- wait, she's speaking silently. That's it, signal the rest, we're killing the lot."


Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Notes - Updated (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 3: Sharing
Post by: Dwarmin on October 25, 2012, 09:30:53 am
Shella crept forward, ready to end another pair of lives in service of her oath. She nodded to Gurrath to move alongside each other-he would skewer anyone who got close, she'd shoot anyone who didn't.

Action: Ambush the skulkers through the wheat with Gurrath, firing at Voice #2 from within his spear range.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 3: Sharing
Post by: Ochita on October 25, 2012, 09:48:54 am
Gurrath nods, understanding Shella's intent. Preparing to kill the skulkers, while moving in line with Shella he prepares to strike.

Dual ambush, precision striking Voice #2.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 3: Sharing
Post by: IronyOwl on October 26, 2012, 07:09:02 am
Sal'savira cawed loudly. It was unlike her- unusually bold, and unusually warlike- but it was what she felt like doing at the moment.

Hopping off her horse and drawing her spear, she began gazing around for her attackers. This was what they were here for, after all. The things she was seeking were near.

Dismount, ready weapon, search for bandits.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 3: Sharing
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 26, 2012, 07:34:41 am
Alarmed, Ecidona's grip tightened around the reins of her horse. She looked at the others, but to her surprise they didn't seem at all concerned about their chances, calmly moving and grasping weapons. Figures - she was probably the only one in the group with no real fighting experience. The bandits' words heard through the amulets intrigued her but she put the matter away for now, and dropped down from the saddle. Breathing deep, she let the Silence come to her, and like fire dying from lack of air, her fears receded into the back of her mind.

Ecidona drops down, grasps her knife (somewhat unsure of what do do with it) and stays near the others
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 3: Sharing
Post by: Caellath on October 26, 2012, 10:15:45 am
Listening to the woman's warning, Eisen deftly stood up on the saddle of his horse, taking out his longbow and notching an arrow towards the area the attackers were located. "As it was said, showing the Mark to outsiders is dangerous. They either covet our power or want us dead...Let's see if they have the means to do so."

Prepare an arrow and shoot the first attacker to be seen.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 4: Telegraphed Ambush
Post by: Tiruin on October 27, 2012, 01:19:37 am
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Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)

-Turn 4: Telegraphed Ambush-

From Shella and Gurrath's view

"I knew that chit was in league with the ring all along. First we start with our traitor. Remember yer training, aim for the lower body so they can't run."
"Alright- Did you hear that?"
"Stop listening to your equinophobia!"
"No, it's coming from behind us!"

Through the walls of wheat, Shella and Gurrath made their way. It was hard to not make a noise however, as there were many more of the dry twig's friends and family that they had to fight through to reach their goal. It was like some bird was gathering them for its nest! When the massacre was finished, they see two men clad in brown cloaks with leather armor, one holding a spear and the other with a shortbow.

"They were behind us all along?!"
"I did tell you there were only three horses..."

...

Gurrath was the first into the fray, aiming his spear for the bowman's neck while Shella backed him up with a twang from her slurbow, both strikes barely hitting their targets due to the thickness of the wheat. The second bandit is quick enough to fire his arrow in reply, but it glances harmlessly off the side of Gurrath's chainmail.

...

The counter attack wasn't as fortunate either, the spearman could only scratch Shella by the arm with the tip of his spear, just to avoid another close ranged bolt from striking him. The bowman was taken by surprise, jumping backwards to fully use his sword, only to be skewered in the chest by Gurrath. He drops his weapons and muttering a faint curse before falling limp.

The other bandit takes a step back before shouting to the winds a short order. "Gerrick, run!"

The remaining bandit turns to face both of you, holding his spear with a scowl on his face, gripping it tensely as his eyes shift from weapon to weapon.

"You'll never take me alive!"

Spoiler: Left Side Ambushers (click to show/hide)

Meanwhile on the road...

A cry comes forth from your right, opposite to where Shella and Gurrath went. Four bandits armed with rudimentary weapons - handaxes, daggers and spears - come from their hiding places, yelling at the top of their lungs and causing a flock of birds to alight from the fields.

The women fall back behind the rest of you, with the older one drawing a dagger from beneath her boot.

"I'm Syra and this is Rhea, I think I've forgotten to introduce us. It's nice to meet you all."
"I do not like introductions when we're being attacked, for the record."

...


...


With a nod of acknowledgement, the four combatants formed a close line and readied themselves for the attack, with Eisen being the only mounted combatant. The approach is swift, and the element of surprise carries only as far as the two forces reach each other in the melee.

Ecidona was the first to act, parrying a strike from the axeman while giving him a sharp cut by the arm along with a swipe from her fist, sending the bandit off balance before another attack - parried to only a glancing strike.

Sal'savira held her stance, waiting for the next bandit to try and attack her as the party formed a pseudo-phalanx formation, striking true upon the spearman's approach. After a couple of returning jabs and feints, he finds his mark by cutting her in the side of her stomach, his spear only missing the vitals by her armor.

Eisen used the terrain to his advantage, spurning his horse forward while firing from his bow. The arrow whizzed past one of the bandits until the foxman was upon him, bashing his head with the bottom of his bow and pulling on the reins, exposing the underbelly of his horse before its hooves came crashing down on the poor thief. The sound of shattering bones echo from underneath, until he draws another arrow and plunges it into his chest as the man staggers from the strike. The arrow embeds itself in the body, stopping all motion from its victim.

Spoiler: Right Side Ambushers (click to show/hide)



The party's defense works out perfectly, or as perfect as can be, with none of the group sustaining any lasting damage but stylish cuts in their armor, or grazing wounds. You see the bandits' expressions falter in their confidence, as if they expected easier prey than that. In the distance, farther up the road, you can see a man with a sword, dressed in the same brownish garb as the ones before you, running away towards the forested area ahead.




Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Notes - Updated (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 4: Telegraphed Ambush
Post by: Dwarmin on October 27, 2012, 02:53:20 am
Shella grunted.

"'Never take me alive'-that's sort of cliched for ones last words, isn't it?" Shella said, simultaneously striking a viper-like defensive martial arts pose.

Action: Taunt the man into attacking me recklessly, further letting down his defenses and accuracy. Concentrate on Defending myself against all attacks, and possibly counter attacking if possible-but otherwise just try not to get hit.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 4: Telegraphed Ambush
Post by: Dwarmin on October 27, 2012, 08:24:25 pm
((Bump.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 4: Telegraphed Ambush
Post by: IronyOwl on October 27, 2012, 08:32:08 pm
Sal'savira let out another loud, predatory caw, and promptly bolted after the fleeing man.

Chase runner. Incapacitate if caught.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 4: Telegraphed Ambush
Post by: Caellath on October 27, 2012, 11:53:49 pm
The young man's eyes narrowed and his mind was alight with awareness of his surroundings. He stared down at the man he had killed with an arrow to the chest. It had begun.

"Take down the bandits and protect the ones who warned us!" Eisen barked, still atop his horse, trying to maneuver the steed for maximum effectiveness.

Protect and defend the two peasants. Call the attention of anyone trying to attack them and attack them.

"Search for someone you won't be spat on for attacking, would you?" he shot at the bandit swordsman with an evil grin appearing from under the hood, sharp and white canines at display.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 4: Telegraphed Ambush
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 28, 2012, 04:59:50 am
The Silence allowed nothing to distract Ecidon as she spun the knife, facing the bandit. Her opponent wasn't human, simply a moving target. 

Ecidona lunges forward at her opponent
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 4: Telegraphed Ambush
Post by: Ochita on October 28, 2012, 07:39:18 am
Gurrath nods, and deciding to let Shella taunt the demoralised man, he decides to try to flank him, using Shella as a distraction for his own movements.

Attempt to flank the spearman, and then precision strike at him.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: Tiruin on October 28, 2012, 12:50:46 pm
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Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)

-Turn 5: Mobility-

From Shella and Gurrath's view

"'Never take me alive'-that's sort of cliched for ones last words, isn't it?"

The spearman spits at your feet, gripping his weapon tightly. "You're just like them, Orc. Apathetic. All in it for the money."

His eyes shift constantly between Shella and Gurrath, balancing his stance as he realizes the entirety of his predicament.

The Spearman has calmed himself!
In addition to that, he has prepared himself for death!

"Die like your kin, you scum!"

...

...

The bandit is the first to strike, his hatred aimed fully at Shella. With a lunge, his spear connects with the Huntress as she deftly positions her slurbow as her shield, using the stock to parry the blow. Gurrath then swipes his spear at the man's ankles, using the shaft to unbalance his momentum while Shella quickly cocks a bolt. His only mistake being getting a glancing strike in the process.

The spearman stumbles and falls on his right arm, scraping his side on his own weapon. As he tries to get up, a familiar twang comes from Shella's slurbow.

He is dead before his body hits the dirt.

Spoiler: Left Side Ambushers (click to show/hide)



Meanwhile on the road...

"Keep them busy! Priority to the traitor! If she dies-"

The bandits are interrupted by a high-pitched shriek, the cry of a Malkaven Seeker. Sal'savira shunts the nearest man away with the haft of her spear before taking off in a run - her legs carrying her faster than any of the rest, slower than a horse but with quick strides. She uses her wings in conjunction with her talons to sustain her balance, putting on her goggles as she edges closer and closer to the fleeing man.

[Bandit 7: 3 vs 5 = miss! | 2 vs 1 ; 2+1 vs 1 = 2 damage! ||| Sal'savira: 1 vs 1 {4} ; {5} takedown.]...

He turns around with a yelp, trying to draw his sword as he is attacked. The Malkaven is too fast, though, and uses her remaining momentum to slam into the runner, tackling him to the ground and using her natural weapons to keep him down and knocking the air out of his chest, flinging the sword several feet away from him. You can see fear across his face as he tries to recognize the creature subduing him.

"Don't kill me, please! What do you want?!"

~~~

"Take down the bandits and protect the ones who warned us!" Eisen said to the rest as he turned towards the swordsman. "Search for someone you won't be spat on for attacking, would you?"

...

...

"You don't know what we face, boy!" The spearman replies, positioning himself in between the Foxfolk's horse, leveling his weapon at the creature. A few quick jabs cause the horse to rise on its rear, evading the tip. Its rider is not so fortunate as the end cuts him along the chest, his armor deflecting most of the wound. It is enough, however, as Eisen's shot goes awry and implants itself between the bandit's feet. He can see the man smiling as he spites him.

The axeman is fazed by Ecidona's attack. She lunges into his body, elbowing his chest and throwing him backwards. With a grunt, he angles his handaxe for the kill, yet only cutting part of the robes covering her wrist as she sidesteps the strike. A thread of cloth falls to the ground.

As if harried by the foxman's own words, the last remaining bandit goes off and continues his strike at Syra, uttering several swears as his sword strikes miss the woman, and infuriated by her own movements as she slips in a cut on his wrist. To add insult to injury, the little one kicks him in the shin.
Fortunately, he only stares in amazement as the child tries to fight in the battle, not choosing to strike at her just yet.

"Where are the other two? They should be here by now!"

Spoiler: Right Side Ambushers (click to show/hide)



In the distance, you can make out the forest, looming over the land with its thick blanket of trees and undergrowth. Watchposts made of hewn wood stand by the trees, concealed mostly by the foliage. A faint trail of smoke comes from deeper in the forest.

Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Notes - Updated!! (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 28, 2012, 01:12:29 pm
((Leaves? O_O))

Ecidona rushed to smother the pain flaring up in her mind. The Silence held, and she continued the fight, eyes blank, unrecognizing of what she was doing, weaving back and forth with the heavy knife.

Ecidona keeps fighting, slash slash
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: Tiruin on October 28, 2012, 01:14:24 pm
((Leaves? O_O))
Wildfolk? O_o
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 28, 2012, 01:20:40 pm
((I made a perfectly good description you include in every post, Mr. O_o. Leaves.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: Tiruin on October 28, 2012, 01:23:59 pm
((I made a perfectly good description you include in every post, Mr. O_o. Leaves.))
((I can't assume anymore? I can't describe what is happening right next to you anymore?

I misread flora and fauna?

D:

Edited, sir.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: Caellath on October 28, 2012, 01:25:09 pm
In response to the man's smile, Eisen grinned.
"By the end of the day your corpse will be feeding the crows. You should not look forward to it."

"Coward!" he growled at the man who kept trying to attack the women.

Without further words, he drew the string of his bow and prepared to fire.

Escape the spearman's range and make him give chase using the horse's movement, draw the swordsman's attention and fire at him. Try to defend the women.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: Dwarmin on October 28, 2012, 02:08:07 pm
Shella stepped over the bandits body without another look or comment, reloading in a single pace, weapon's nose pointed downward. Hated when they said cryptic things before they died, honestly...

She supposed the other enemies were no doubt expecting help from this angle from their friends.

Time to disappoint them.

...

As her green hands quietly broke through the wheat covering and she surveyed the field.

One pinned, one dead, one injured, two mostly up and fighting. Eisen ranting as he swung his sword wildly. The others not doing as well, the bandits seeming to have the momentum.

Shella growled, seeing one of the bandits targeting a non-combatant, a little girl. Tagga was about that age when she was taken...he would die first.

Action: Sneak up and shoot whoever is threatening the Childrens!
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: IronyOwl on October 28, 2012, 04:00:25 pm
"The Object," Sal'savira answered, staring down at her quarry. "We seek it. You have stolen it, yes? Now you seek mages?

Explain."

Get information.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: Caellath on October 28, 2012, 05:05:26 pm
Eisen ranting as he swung his sword wildly.
((He has a bow and he's trying to draw the swordsman's attention. The swordsman is the one trying to attack the children, by the way. :P))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 5: Mobility
Post by: Ochita on October 28, 2012, 05:46:23 pm
Gurrath gave a grunt as the spearman died, spouting off something. Keeping those words in mind, he disregarded the families of sticks groaning and dieing under his feet as he charged towards the rest of the group, breaking though the straw cover, shouting..

"Your friends are dead! Surrender now and you wont be killed painfully!"

Charge at the man threatening the women!
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6a: A Brief Respite
Post by: Tiruin on October 29, 2012, 11:06:24 am
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Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Bonuses (click to show/hide)

-Turn 6a: A Brief Respite-

Several strides to the North East...

"The Object," Sal'savira answered, staring down at her quarry. "We seek it. You have stolen it, yes? Now you seek mages? Explain."
[6]
The bandit's mouth opens and closes like a fish as he tries to comprehend what was interrogating him. It is evident in his expression that he is at lost for words.

That is, until a gracious amount of force-by-hand-talon is placed on the fore of his neck, poking the general area of his voicebox with it's sharp tip. He swallows hard as he reconsiders his action and speaks.

"Ma'am- Sir! I mean no disrespect, on my life I swear, I know nothing of an Object of which you people seek or why you are looking for an object that we may or may not have stolen and we have stolen things before but I have no idea what object you or your sirs want and the mages are also needed for our wounded, they're sick from some kind of disease."

He takes a quick breath before continuing, his eyes fixed on the pointy tips which seem so keen on asking him for more.

"I swear by my mother and father who bore me that we've stolen nothing from the likes of you and even if we did steal something of great value only the ringleader and his trusted cadre know of it, I just follow his orders and please please spare my life soldier of the King, I was only doing what was requested on me being a footpad and all, and I haven't killed anyone yet. Please don't kill me or let me hang!"

His face flushes with red as he closes his eyes and prepares for the worst to come.



Meanwhile on the road...

"You can't fight against one with a spear, can you, horseman? Care to use your bow? I think not!"

As the fighters on the road take a second to analyze their positions, most are unaware as Shella moved into position behind the fence, with Gurrath vaulting over it and beginning his charge. If it were not for their uniforms, they would've played the exact role their quarry did - if they were still alive.

...

With a pull of the trigger, the Orc's bolt flies true, hitting the swordsman in his right side, staggering him and keeping him from completely attacking the children while Gurrath's warcry brings the bandits' attention to their location, their morale dropping once they see the conclusion to their allies' disappearances. However, willpower alone was not enough to leave an opening for the mercenary as his attack goes wide, being parried by the swordsman before returning his gaze upon Syra through the pain.

Eisen grinned as the battle was rejoined, his attention on the swordsman. "By the end of the day your corpse will be feeding the crows. You should not look forward to it."

He is interrupted by the spearman, who takes the initiative to impede Eisen's movements. "I look forward to a skewered horse, is what I see!"

Erstwhile, you hear a cheer come from Rhea as her guardian uses the opportunity to her full advantage. She tries to stab the man in the same place the bolt embedded itself in but her hand is stopped by his quick reflex. With a twist of her wrist, Syra is soon disarmed and pushed to the ground by a grappling maneuver. He holds his sword with one hand, and the other stops the counterstrike as Rhea tries to intervene.

"You coward!"

...

...

"At least I ain't a traitor!" The swordsman replies as he thrusts his sword downward, only to be deflected by Syra's dagger as she sprains her arm in defending herself. Settling for a non-lethal strike, the bandit kicks her in the face with his boot.

Ecidona on the other hand, is quite lucky with her attempts. The axeman is only an object in her eyes, an item of the material world as stated in one of the many manuscripts of the Silent. He bares his teeth as he lunges at her, being parried by her dagger and given a shove by her freehand. She quickly gives a riposte at his arm and delivers a long wound, only hindered by his armor as the man turns around to strike again.

[5][5][5] [What is this. D&D roller (http://i.imgur.com/KdTOJ.png) must be broken...]

Until Gurrath's voice is heard over the sounds of battle.

"Your friends are dead! Surrender now and you wont be killed painfully!"

The three remaining bandits take a quick look at their friends, before dropping their aggression by a fraction.

"Why should we surrender when we'd be killed anyway?!" says the Spearman.
"Shut it! I plead for amnesty in return for our cooperation!" the Axeman replies.
"Look who's talking here!" The Swordsman pipes up, gesturing at the fact that Rhea was biting his gloved hand, "I don't want to fight anymore! We're outmatched and outnumbered. It seems they got Gerrick, and our watchmen aren't even responding! I can't fight women, not even children in my state! I invoke parley!"
"You don't even know what parley is!"
"Then I invoke Amnesty for our cooperation!"
"He said killed, painfully..."

As they talk, Rhea drops to her knees and brushes the dust off her guardian's face, wiping away the tears that have formed.

All enemies have surrendered by cumulative damage and/or disarmament. Victory!

She looks back at you with a pleading expression.

Spoiler: Right Side Ambushers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Left Side Ambushers (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Loot (click to show/hide)



Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: GM Notes (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6a: A Brief Respite
Post by: IronyOwl on October 29, 2012, 11:14:12 am
Sal'savira tapped the side of her beak thoughtfully.

"Interesting. It is possible that this sickness is tied to the Object.

You will take us there."

She began dragging the bandit back to the others.

"Important news!" she called out. "This one claims ignorance of the Object we seek, and claims a mysterious illness has taken hold of their ilk, necessitating the mages. This could be related to the Object. He will take us to them and we shall seek it out."

Drag bandit back to group, inform group of suspicions.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6a: A Brief Respite
Post by: Dwarmin on October 29, 2012, 11:43:15 am
Shella appeared back on the road after a moment of peace, re-stock two bloody ended slurbow bolts into the carapace sheath on her arm-which apparently doubled as a quiver.

She took no notice of their companions stares, twirling a piece of wheat between her teeth.

Shella approached the swordsman, the one with bolt in his side. She spoke, in a low and threatening voice.

"Bleeding pretty bad there. It didn't break a rib, though-so you might survive. I do reckon you should talk while you're still conscious, though.

See, my language doesn't have a word for 'amnesty' or 'parley'. You're still my enemy, and you will be until I kill you-today, tomorrow, if I ever see you again. I'm sure you understand, it's a cultural thing. I'd just as soon as kill you right now for threatening a child and her protector, but I also respect my partners wishes in this manner. To an extent.

I'd like to get my bolt back, if you don't mind-and let the fates decide if you bleed to death or not-disease is more likely, naturally. That'd be slower. So, tell me why you decided to incompetently ambush us. Tell me about the Orb. Tell me about the King, his mandates, why you're out here. Tell me your name, craven. Tell me why you wanted to harm these two.

Tell me everything, or I'm going to yank that bolt out of your side and spit in the wound. Then your friends will be more compliant, I hope."

Action: Employ Orcish intimidate tactics against the Swordsman, asking him for plot advacement. Take my bolt out of his side, if he refuses or is difficult.

Also, pre-action-make sure to loot the two bodies me and Gurrath killed earler.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6a: A Brief Respite
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 29, 2012, 12:42:51 pm
With the end of the fighting, Ecidona let go of the Silence. The shudders came almost immediately. She suppressed them as much as she could, taking deep breaths. Atleast she hadn't killed anyone today. The others seemed totally unbothered, seeming to revel in their killing prowess and success or act like nothing at had happened. She would have to get used to it sooner or later. In the meantime, this sickness, even if possibly dangerous, would occupy her nicely.

Ecidona follows the others' lead for now
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6a: A Brief Respite
Post by: Dwarmin on October 29, 2012, 01:55:33 pm
With the end of the fighting, Ecidona let go of the Silence. The shudders came almost immediately. She suppressed them as much as she could, taking deep breaths.

After she was done with her interrogation, Shella walked over to Ecidona, leaning up against a tree.

"...It gets easier." She says, simply. "Eventually, you'll wake up and wonder why you cared so much about it-the distinction between good and evil, right and wrong. It doesn't matter once the first cut is made. After that, it's just fast and slow, living and dead.

On the day you figure it ouy, you realize you're not the same person you were. Part of this life, the one we lead...is letting go of who you were. Embracing the beast within. How far you go, is up to you." Shella says, crossing her arms.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6a: A Brief Respite
Post by: Caellath on October 29, 2012, 02:41:14 pm
Eisen nimbly leaped from his horse to the ground and ran over to Syra and Rhea, trying to soothe them both. Part of the blame was theirs, for the swordsman had been given enough time for them to take him down...But he was being distracted by the spearman and ultimately, he hadn't been able to call the enemy's attention.

"It's all fine now..." he said with the same calming voice he had used so many times when dealing with wounded and scared animals. It could appear to be a rude comparison, but he still felt the tone was adequate while he was trying to calm down the woman to help her.

Even though the young man had never really fought before, he had felt as if it was only natural to do so. Maybe the survival instinct built into each being had kicked into action and made him do what he was supposed to: his fingers quickly sought the string and the arrows sought the enemy - just as he had practiced.

But it was all over for the moment. All that was left was taking care of the wounded woman and moving on...

Treat the wounded lady.



After taking care of Syra, Eisen approached the bandits with a light step, stopping and facing them.

"Since you have surrendered, please let go of your weapons." he said calmly. During the battle, he had just sustained a scratch and his taunting had been born out of attempts to call for the enemies' attention instead of proper anger.

The foxfolk man was once again displaying his usual calm, but there was always an arrow to be notched as soon as a bandit decided to go against the group's orders.

Order the bandits to let go of their weapons and take the spear for mounted combat.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6a: A Brief Respite
Post by: Ochita on October 29, 2012, 03:29:28 pm
Gurrath sighs, and checks around. Deciding that his fellows are doing pretty much what he would have done, he scratches the back of his head, slightly unused to the unordered assignments. Deciding that he might as well scavenge what he can off the fallen, he glimses Shella going into the wheatfield, most likely to loot the two corpses there. Noting the dead bandit, he decides to drag it away from the road, and he loots it.

Loot bandit 4

...

Dusting off his hands, Gurrath heads towards the group, and finishes leaning against a tree, spear held in one hand.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6b: Diverging Paths
Post by: Tiruin on October 30, 2012, 12:56:35 am
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Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

-Turn 6b: Diverging Paths-

Words spoken, oaths broken, threats given and truth unravelled. The day shifted into late in the day, nearing the hour of dusk. As the brilliant hues of the yellow sun faded, the skies grew ablaze with the shifting colors of orange and gold. The wheat reflected it's beauty, growing a wonderful yellow-brown as the party continued their interrogation.


It all began with the swordsman - he who had wished the children a swift death by his blade. Shella's tactics of intimidation were just enough to broker him a deal that would go both ways - death, or blood loss.

He grunts as he puts a hand around the shaft of the bolt. "I know nothing about the Orb - I swear. Also, I don't know how you don't know about the King. Aren't you one of his soldiers? Hmph, doesn't matter. Your garb most certainly states you're mercenaries hired by him. I am Dweonir, known as 'Deon' son of Harath, who now lies slain by your crossbow. Anyway, for his mandate - he has decreed a swift death for all 'lawless' elements in the land - meaning anything his forces can see or touch, even on foreign soil. As for lawless...you tell me that, I don't know why you're sparing the likes of me anyway. I can't even kill children, not even the peasant girl."

He looks at his comrades before continuing. His voice dropping to a somber tone. "Of course, we wanted to take care of our people first - nearly a whole village's worth, Syra over there was one of another's land along with her sister or summat' like it. We weren't ambushing in the sense of notorious killing like how we're branded by the commoners, but only for our needs but- aurgh, please stop!"

He looks away, along with the rest as the items of the dead are looted. You can hear the spearman mutter something under his breath. "And they damn us for being bandits."

"Oh huh. Gerrick is back. I-err. What is that thing?" Deon says, looking at Sal'savira. "Don't harm him, he's a footpad - one of the lower members of our band, if I take it you're sparing us the blade for the moment." He sighs before continuing. "I shall not speak anymore than necessary. I am bound by my words, and she can explain better for herself."

You all turn to see Eisen hovering over the girl in question, moving away Rhea's hands while putting his own over the area of the wounds, cleaning them and using his own water from the provisions to fix it up.

"It's all fine now..."

She opens her eyes to see her wounds healing at an amazing rate, before looking at the rest of you and getting up, thanking her healer. She moves over to Gerrick and pulls out a tube-like container from within his cloak, opening it and bringing out a large sheet of paper.

At Eisen's call, they throw down their weapons amidst numerous grumbling of how this idea seems feasible to them, but they remain silent for the time being. Syra stands up and hugs the foxfolk before turning and addressing you.

"Deon tells the truth. I am not of his band, but was a captive along with Rhea. We were forced to be part of the scouting groups - if anything went wrong, I was to take full blame of the dead or wounded. Fortunately...it seems I was lucky today. Now I believe that we're in relative safety for now, and you seem to be..." she looks at Sal'savira, then Ecidona, before continuing, "against the bandits, yes? Well. We're lucky our runner didn't forget where our route was for the moment.

"Here's a map for illustration. Err, excuse me if I use this..."

She traces a few lines with her hand, using the soil around her to mark the area along with a bit of her own blood, carefully drawn with her pinkie.
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)

"Unconventional, but this works. The red markings denote our usual route, the X means the camp. The outlined trees represent lookout perches, while...well, why are you interested in the Orb anyway? I didn't think...mercenaries would be told their objective so plainly."

She casts a quizzical look at you after a quick glance at the other bandits.

Spoiler: Captives (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Loot (click to show/hide)



Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Notes - UPDATED D: (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6b: Diverging Paths
Post by: Tiruin on October 30, 2012, 12:58:37 am
Also, hows everyone enjoying themselves? Comments? Criticisms? I feel like I've just done something wrong for you players but can't see what.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6b: Diverging Paths
Post by: Caellath on October 30, 2012, 01:41:53 am
((Doing nicely.))

Eisen claims one of the iron spears.

As if remembering something, Eisen carefully pats Syra's shoulder and waits until he has her attention.
"Sorry for not noticing your message earlier. I had a grasp of the situation, but realizing you were trying to tell us something would have made things much simpler."

He stares at her and Rhea for a moment before asking:
"Will you be fine? Do you have a home to return to?"



Turning to the team, he pointed at the map. "I know it is fairly obvious, but the left path would be the best one. Although the way is longer, we would only have to sneak past or take down one lookout perch, as opposed to the opposite side."

He motioned towards their prisoners. "And our guides would have less of a chance to call for their allies' attention."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6b: Diverging Paths
Post by: Caellath on October 30, 2012, 09:51:37 pm
((Bump for the people who may have missed the update. Hey, it updated.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6b: Diverging Paths
Post by: Ochita on October 30, 2012, 10:04:18 pm
((Aaaaaaaaaaaaa))

Gurrath sighs, and after looking over the Yew bow, takes it.

"I'd agree with that. The plan seems sound. The element of surprise is pretty vital in situations like these really."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6b: Diverging Paths
Post by: IronyOwl on October 31, 2012, 01:03:50 am
Sal'savira shrugged.

"As you wish."

She then turned her attention back to the bandits, prodding them a bit.

Examine bandits. Try to remember if Chosen of Ecid are allowed to have NPC slaves unofficial assistants.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6b: Diverging Paths
Post by: Dwarmin on October 31, 2012, 01:32:04 am
Shella nods, silently agreeing to Eisens plan. She honestly wouldn't mind taking more of them on...

...

Shella practice flipped the handaxe. Well weighted, if a bit light. It should serve in a pinch, she thought-tucking into a empty holster on her left hip. Merely a replacement-her last pair of axes were probably still in that Green Dragons belly...it was sad to have lost such venerable weapons, but preferable to resting with them.

Action: Take an Iron Handaxe
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 6b: Diverging Paths
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 31, 2012, 07:14:03 am
((It's great, Tir.))

Ecidona avoided the orc as she went over to the weapons, somewhat disturbed by her words. She seemed to believe a particular way of looking at the world was required to become a warrior. Perhaps Ecidona would write on it. The archives had little material that didn't just glorify the 'heroic warrior', someone who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the proper way of things - the Bastion view, shaped by Bastion life and Bastion prejudices. 

She considered picking up the Stiletto for a moment, but decided against it. It was a killing weapon, made solely for one purpose - Ecidona simply felt better using her heavy, utilitarian knife.

Take nothing, keep calm and carry on
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Tiruin on October 31, 2012, 09:36:18 am
Previous: In which a planning is done. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3742476#msg3742476) | Current: In which night comes. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3746094#msg3746094) | Next: In which we join the shadows. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3757437#msg3757437)

Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

-Turn 7: The Short Dark-

"I had to be cryptic. I didn't know if they were interpreting my signals correctly and...well, that sign of yours. Of course, nobody answers me and that Orb... And no, I have no home to return to. If I did, I'd be lost out in this wilderness anyway. Well, me and Rhea, that is."

Syra sheathed her knife and sat down along with Rhea as she modified the map, sprinkling bits of dust and tracing it with her finger as the rest of the party claimed their spoils.

The Malkaven on the other hand, decided to take a more direct approach to the situation. She approached each one in turn and began an up-close inspection of the person, from head down to
detailed toe, the information gleaned was very...
Spoiler: informative. (click to show/hide)

As they show you their appreciation of lending their possessions through grunts and low-pitched grumbling, the bandits just stay silent for most of the rest of the hour, sitting huddled in a pile facing you. Plans are drawn out to move to the leftmost path, and to go against the movements of the enemy. As you finish up with the battle - stowing away any corpses with their earned respect where they lay, you tie up your captives and move them in a line, heading northwards past the tree-junction.

Syra pulls over to the rest of you while holding up the map.

"Don't mind me. I'll just keep to the back to make sure these people don't escape." you hear her say, referring to the bandits now held captive. "And...don't mind the lines either. I use them to think of possible ways of entry- but it looks like you've all got it figured out yourselves. The men will cooperate with you as you've spared their lives anyhow."

She moves back as the map is handed over to Shella.


Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)

From the colors of the auburn skies came the visage of Luna - the first 'moon'. As the light turned into a darker hue, all that was left was her radiance, blanketing the land in a silver glow. Gurrath leads the way, holding his lantern in one hand while the other kept to his horses reins. The rest of you follow behind him in double file along with the captives and the children on foot.

The night breeze comes, bringing with it the chills of the evening. You can see your own breath in the air as your horses trudge along. All around you, the cacophony of the forest lightens the mood; crickets and other night birds singing their twilit songs through chirps and calls, and the rhythmic footfalls of your steeds were the only sounds heard.

The Night Air refreshes your spirits and relaxes your nerves, enabling most of you to enjoy the scenery before the camp is reached. Everyone regains 5 Health!

[1]

As you pass the next pine, a faint light in the distance appears, followed by another and a third. Luckily, your suspicions correct themselves - the lookouts had their backs turned to your area, facing the other way as they affixed their light sources for the coming hours.

Looking around, there are many paths to cross through, but the watchers are stationed on an elevated platform made out of wood. A simple but sturdy construct resembling an open watchtower connected to an aged tree.

You can see one of the people carrying a hunting horn, slung by a leather strap over one shoulder and resting on the opposite hip while the rest armed with shortbows or spears. None of them have noticed you and you are not sure as to how many their numbers are, as the distance obscures any recognizable features.


Spoiler: Captives (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Loot (click to show/hide)



Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Notes - Updated (click to show/hide)

Also, Happy Halloween to all ye merry men!  :P
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Dwarmin on October 31, 2012, 10:09:42 am
Shella was sure she could have sneaked past the guard tower herself-but with the whole party...she felt someone would find a twig to step on. It was like someone was writing this all down somewhere.

She motioned for the others to be quiet, whispering only to Eisen.

"We're sneaking around this tower. I'm going first, you second-pass it on the the next one. That person goes third, got it-and if anybody wakes up the Cat, we stick together and book it-just follow my footsteps. Understand?"

After the message was passed around, she began to move her mount forward in a gentle trot-leading the party along the shadowed areas, evading potential troubles-piles of crunchy leaves and the like. She was a Hunter, after all-if she couldn't do this, what could she do? Her eyes were accustomed to the dark-much like her soul-but it would still be a challenge leading everyone through...especially if word had already gotten around a patrol was missing.

Action: Lead the party past the tower stealthylike-if someone triggers an Alert (!) , we RIDE together.

((Shut up, this is totally going to work :P))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Tiruin on October 31, 2012, 10:13:23 am
=snip=
((Ye hath horses, my friend. Don't forget yer mounts. :P))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 31, 2012, 10:17:43 am
((Let's just ride them the fuck down. Cavalry charge, cut them down before they can react. Let's spill some blood, I WANT TO TASTE MAN-FLESH.

This is all totally in-character.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Dwarmin on October 31, 2012, 10:22:49 am
=snip=
((Ye hath horses, my friend. Don't forget yer mounts. :P))

((Can we still ride past the tower unseen?

@DH: They're in a tower! D: How do we ride them down...if they're...above us!?))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Digital Hellhound on October 31, 2012, 10:25:08 am
((We'll run the tower down too. Duh. It can't be that sturdy, and these horses have tough skulls.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Tiruin on October 31, 2012, 10:31:24 am
=snip=
((Ye hath horses, my friend. Don't forget yer mounts. :P))

((Can we still ride past the tower unseen?

@DH: They're in a tower! D: How do we ride them down...if they're...above us!?))
((Yes, you can sneak by horse. The map is drawn in a way that shows which part is forested and hilly. The cartographer loves her trees. :P
Only problem is charging the watchtower head on. You silly Digital.
Try to make use of your...resources. Talking is a free action - when done with allies. It's not like the whole camp is gathered at that area though, don'cha worry.))You can ride through the whole camp, if you can sneak in a [Large] target (that's you on a mount) through the copious amounts of people who may or may not be around.

@DH: Ye art mad. XD
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Ochita on October 31, 2012, 11:15:07 am
((Yes, Aaaaaaa. Its when Im all worked up over something, for example me missing that it had updated.))

Gurrath clears his thoat slightly, while glancing up at the first moon, luna. He liked looking at the moons when it was night, it was usually calming for him, and he centered his nerves once again, looking back down to the forest.

"Well, I guess we should sneak in one by one into the forest with our mounts?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Caellath on October 31, 2012, 12:28:00 pm
Carrying the rest of the unclaimed weapons on the back of his horse and away from the bandits, Eisen calmly followed the rest of the group, silently stopping and standing still when the lights were sighted.

"We're sneaking around this tower. I'm going first, you second-pass it on the the next one. That person goes third, got it-and if anybody wakes up the Cat, we stick together and book it-just follow my footsteps. Understand?"

If the female orc had already seen any of the quiet ones who treaded the forest trails and navigated amidst the trees, she could probably notice Eisen's outfit resembled one of these rangers - light, resilient cloth, a characteristic color scheme and good-quality leather.

"Sure, miss." he answered with a smile, hidden by the darkness and his hood. He wasn't one to raise unneeded doubts - even if he had grown amidst the woods and plains, he supposed there was no harm in letting the female orc take the lead, if so she wanted. Maybe it was part of her culture, even.

"If you want to infiltrate with our mounts, we should move in a line, with or feet on the ground and pulling our horses by the reins. However, they are large and leaving them behind for the moment to make our entry easier is a valid option." the young man answered Gurrath.

Eisen then tugged on the reins of his mount. "Even then, it might be tactically better for us to keep them. And remember, if we are found out, the ones with ranged weaponry should take down the man with the hunting horn first."

Sneak and assist Shella in her attempt if necessary. If the group is found out, leap atop the horse to get to a higher ground and shoot the man with the horn.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Tiruin on November 01, 2012, 07:52:15 am
"H-hey! What about us?" you hear the Spearman speak from behind you. "You aren't just going to leave us here, right? At least give us our weapons back."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Caellath on November 01, 2012, 12:37:44 pm
"H-hey! What about us?" you hear the Spearman speak from behind you. "You aren't just going to leave us here, right? At least give us our weapons back."

"Good point." Eisen says, turning his head to the spearman as he talks. "We can not risk having you attack our backs."

Before leaving, gag the bandits and take them bound and gagged on the back of the horses.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Digital Hellhound on November 02, 2012, 08:10:51 am
((If it wasn't clear, I'll be following along and following orders.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Tiruin on November 02, 2012, 08:21:57 am
((Why do you OOC? XD
Anyway, it isn't clear if you just post without bolding actions, because I'm confused that way.

And it's not clear if you only post in OOC, at all. But thanks. :/))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Ochita on November 02, 2012, 01:55:11 pm
Gurrath nods, and obtains some rope from his pack.
"Its nothing personal you know, we just don't want you to stab us in the back. We'll just release you afterwards. Or something."
Help with the binding and gagging of bandits.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Dwarmin on November 02, 2012, 04:34:15 pm
"Should we bother with blindfolds or just remove their eyes?" Shella said within earshot of the bound bandits, using typical Orcish humor.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Tiruin on November 02, 2012, 09:16:55 pm
((IronyOwl, we need your benevolent presence! :D I bump this for you!))

"You're...bringing us on your suicide mission on- horseback?!"

The Spearman looks at you with a mixture of awe and doubt.

"Alright, I get that you're looking for our loot, but there's no need to be hasty..."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Caellath on November 02, 2012, 09:27:55 pm
"Alright, I get that you're looking for our loot, but there's no need to be hasty..."

"How about we make things easier for us then?" Eisen said, starting to check if the bandits had cloaks or clothing that they could wear over their own.

Take the bandits' superficial covering of clothing after getting them gagged and bound. Make sure not to leave them naked, but get clothing enough for the group to use as a disguise.

His eyes narrowed. "Secondary plan."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: IronyOwl on November 03, 2012, 11:36:09 pm
((Sorry.))


Sal'savira cocked her head at the peculiar discussion.

"Perhaps leaving their weapons in a pile far away, then leaving them tied but able to wriggle forward slowly? They would be able to free themselves eventually, but not for some time.

Although I doubt they will attack us again, having seen how it fared once. Such a thing would be most unwise," she finished, fixing the bandits with her stare.

No particular action.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 7: The Short Dark
Post by: Tiruin on November 03, 2012, 11:38:10 pm
((Don't worry about it. =) ))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Tiruin on November 04, 2012, 04:22:44 am
Previous: In which night comes. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3746094#msg3746094) | Current: In which we join the shadows. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3757437#msg3757437) | Next: In which we practice orcish diplomacy. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3777097#msg3777097)

Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

-Turn 8: Incognito-

Deon gives his comrade a look of disbelief as he and his friends get bound and silenced.

"You just had to open your big mouth. You see, this is why we shut up while our captors work. This is why we just sit in the background and do fluff. This is- mfrrfffpppfhhh..."
"Mmmpphhh?"
"Mfh."

"Just scream if you need help."

The bandits give you looks of appreciation and gratitude, evident by their dagger-like gaze as you pry off their cloaks and other outer garments, leaving only the simplest of coverings behind - a cloth shirt and pants. Their excitement to tell you such has them shivering with glee in the cold.

Gained: Bandit Cloak and Armor! Check your individual spoilers whenever a sign like me pops up!

A few moments later, undisturbed by any of the watchers on the perch, you size each other up and notice that the clothing borrowed fits perfectly on your bodies. Even for pseudo-humanoid beings, the cloak and cloth weavings seem to blend in along with your common wear.

Shella maneuvers her horse to the fore, followed by Gurrath and his torch - each of the other horses bore a bandit all except for the Orc's. "Alright, let's continue the plan."

"I sure hope you know what you're doing." Syra pipes up from behind.

With a nod, Shella draws the reins and orders the column to move in a slow trod, their sounds muffled by the natural noise and the loamy ground. Looking to the perch, you see that none of the men have caught sight of you. As one of the bowmen step down and out of view, another rises and appears to stare right in your direction.

"You forgot to douse the torch!"

[6-1] {1}

The man lifts his bow in the air and gets a torch from its handle, pointing at your party. You can hear his voice clearly through the night air, only muffled by your own breathing.

"They have returned with captives! Rejoice!"

As if alarmed, the men move about in a frenzy, descending from the perch and grabbing their torches, forming two disorderly rows of bowmen and spearmen right at the midsection of the dirt path with an elderly man wielding a cudgel in the middle. You cannot see their disposition towards you from here, but notice that their weapons are held lax by their sides.

Looking at the childrens' expressions, they are as confused as your captives are.

"So you aren't charging in?"

Spoiler: Captives (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Loot Gathered (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Notes - Updated! (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Tiruin on November 04, 2012, 05:21:32 am
It seems I have forgotten to mention this.

Rolls pertaining to the environment [especially 1s and 6s] are generally gradual in their effect while some are instantaneous. All depend on the stimulus applied though - the actions of the beings affecting them. Applying to the sense of realism, if my take is correct in understanding.

Thank you once more for reading.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Skyrunner on November 04, 2012, 05:35:54 am
((y u so hardworking on your game? xD))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Tiruin on November 04, 2012, 05:52:44 am
((y u so hardworking on your game? xD))
((Thanks for the compliment Skyrunner :))

I think it's my weakness? I'm unsure, I just want to tell a story.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Caellath on November 05, 2012, 09:06:23 am
Eisen looked to the sides with a smile as he rode the horse towards the watchers.
"They have spearmen, but should we charge them down when we get slightly closer? Or disguise won't work very well when we get near them, and we still have the element of surprise."

Shoot down the man with the hunting horn, charge in and trample if the bandits get into disarray/do not have enough time to get their weapons to bear. If my allies do not charge, then do not go in.

Require them to surrender immediately, using the shock of the situation.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Ochita on November 05, 2012, 07:57:47 pm
Gurrath gave a fake smile, before turning to look at Eisen as in engaging idle conversation.
"If that's so, we'll need to really strike them at the closest range we can get to without them noticing that its not their compatriots."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Dwarmin on November 05, 2012, 08:05:24 pm
"Then let's stop talking about it and do so. Unless someone here is very good at bluffing." Shegga says, preparing to quick draw her bow.

Action: Shoot the old guy first, if no one has a better idea.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Digital Hellhound on November 06, 2012, 09:08:45 am
Guard the prisoners, make sure they don't escape
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Ochita on November 06, 2012, 11:51:38 am
Gurrath nods, and prepares to fire his newly looted bow.

Fire at the spearmen.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Tiruin on November 06, 2012, 12:01:32 pm
((So you three are charging the seemingly bewildered bandits who outnumber you 1.3:1, and Ecidona is staying behind with her dagger on her horse? Just making sure.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Caellath on November 06, 2012, 12:11:38 pm
((So you three are charging the seemingly bewildered bandits who outnumber you 1.3:1, and Ecidona is staying behind with her dagger on her horse? Just making sure.))
((I'd like if you gave us the exact number of enemies and their type - that information isn't in the turn.

Also, I'm in a frenzy due to a period of tests in my university, as we have talked through IRC. Do not expect much on the realm of tactics or finesse from me for some time. :P

@DigitalHellhound: All of the prisoners are tied to the horses' back. Guarding the captives may be a little difficult in this case.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Dwarmin on November 06, 2012, 12:13:00 pm
((I'm shooting at them with my bow :P
At this point, they're going to attack anyway unless someone is, like I said, really good at bluffing. Anyone wanna give it a shot?))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Caellath on November 06, 2012, 12:14:52 pm
((I'm shooting at them with my bow :P
At this point, they're going to attack anyway unless someone is, like I said, really good at bluffing. Anyone wanna give it a shot?))
((If we get close enough, they'll see we are not their comrades and those are on the horses' backs. I don't think bluffing would work very well.

Edit: I'd like to point out that charging into the fray while the enemies are confused to run over them with the horses is a valid strategy.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Tiruin on November 06, 2012, 12:18:56 pm
((I'm shooting at them with my bow :P
At this point, they're going to attack anyway unless someone is, like I said, really good at bluffing. Anyone wanna give it a shot?))
((If we get close enough, they'll see we are not their comrades and those are on the horses' backs. I don't think bluffing would work very well.))
((Ahh, to assume freely.

You'll never know unless you tried.  :P))

((So you three are charging the seemingly bewildered bandits who outnumber you 1.3:1, and Ecidona is staying behind with her dagger on her horse? Just making sure.))
((I'd like if you gave us the exact number of enemies and their type - that information isn't in the turn.))
((You got a 1,3,1 on recognition so...Also, there may or may not be more enemies still obscured by that watchtower-type. It's pretty lit there, but that's not to say they have people hiding.

This is all just me pointing out things from every point of view though. I don't want people getting confused.

No pressure. Spears and Bows all the way. Like that guy with a hunting horn and a Longbow.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Caellath on November 06, 2012, 12:50:05 pm
((@Everyone: I'm giving up on the charge, let's just try to bluff our way past them and into the main camp.))

Eisen sighed and silently held out a hand, motioning for the group to stop. "...Instead of charging, I'll try to bluff our way through them. They outnumber us, and they can easily call for reinforcements. I trust they aren't a close-knit group enough to know we aren't one of their scouting parties."

Try to bluff our way through the watchers. Tell them we are taking the captives to the main camp.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Harry Baldman on November 06, 2012, 01:19:38 pm
((Half the group bluffs while the other half distract the bandits by attacking something else! Two pronged ambush of death! And stuff. Everybody wins!))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Tiruin on November 06, 2012, 01:22:01 pm
((I presume you're all enjoying eating popcorn while watching through that amulet which you can use to speak to them, yes?

No wait, make that fried rats. :P))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Harry Baldman on November 06, 2012, 01:47:25 pm
((Bluffing does seem like a very implausible prospect, though, considering that only one person in the group isn't a nonhuman. Well, maybe Eisen or Ecidona could pass for humans in the right lighting and obscuring clothing, I suppose.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Caellath on November 06, 2012, 02:03:53 pm
((Bluffing does seem like a very implausible prospect, though, considering that only one person in the group isn't a nonhuman. Well, maybe Eisen or Ecidona could pass for humans in the right lighting and obscuring clothing, I suppose.))
((Talked to the GM to clear up some doubts. It turns out the bandits are also a motley group, not composed only of humans. Do you remember how the world is full of different people as pointed out by the OP? Yep, it seems to apply here.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Tiruin on November 07, 2012, 06:20:07 am
((Confirming what Caellath said, you haven't just recognized any of them up close. :/

Also, just waiting on you Irony. :P))

Syra pulled up to the frontal parts of the group.

"So we're going straight into their path? No attacking? Alright, I'll try to help you there."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: Ochita on November 08, 2012, 10:18:02 am
Gurrath nods, and instead of drawing his new yew bow, he decides to scratch his back, and then he relaxes slightly, lowering his stance to a relaxed shoulder trot, keeping his head down by a bit.

Attempt to not draw attention to myself.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 8: Incognito
Post by: IronyOwl on November 09, 2012, 06:16:05 am
Act all humanoid and bandity, approach group.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Tiruin on November 10, 2012, 01:51:30 am
Previous: In which we join the shadows. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3757437#msg3757437) | Current: In which we practice orcish diplomacy. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3777097#msg3777097) | Next: In which we're halfway through the chapter. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3790155#msg3790155)

Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

-Turn 9: An Arrow's Point-
or
~The Bow is Mightier than the Pen~

"Not a charge," Eisen said in reply to Syra, "We have a plan."

Shella adjusted her slurbow while making sure the bolt was nocked, "Don't worry, little one. Your ward needs your presence more."

"Leave this to us mercenaries," Gurrath added, "It works better that way." He gave way to Eisen as the man held his torch aloft, transferring the foxman's load onto his own horse before shifting behind Sal'savira as the Seeker took front alongside the Knight.

"I just hope you know what you're doing." Syra said as she returned to her place at the back.

The bandits in front of you do not move from their positions in the slightest as your horses approach, their hooves keeping the rhythm as you try to keep your calm. Looking around, you can see more of the vague silhouettes surrounding the watchtower - seven, eight, nine...not including the bowmen and spearmen in front of you, perhaps amounting to nearly one and a half dozen men.

[Meeting: 1]

The elder man, seemingly their leader, approaches with his cudgel in a cheerful manner. "Hail scouts. I see you've done well in your work." His gaze passes over the column, his smile increasing in size as he nods to himself. "Very impressive. Four hapless mages, I presume. You didn't lose anyone?"

With a silent nod, Eisen unfolded the first quarter.

"Nay, my sire. We arr'nt facing death so easily."
"We're in a rush, and you seem to be interrupting our proceedings." Ecidona said.
"Let us pass. Direct orders to head to the camp." The Malkaven added.
"Hold on, just who are you and why are you giving me orders!? Tell me your name, lad." The bandit says, looking at the foxman.

"Err..."
"Ursa. Who are you to command my party?"

You see the turn of heads, and attention focused on the back of your lines, Syra was speaking.

"You have no authority to ask my companions anything as you're only command of our western guard."
"Someone tell me the lass didn't grow a tongue ever since she's been sent out!" Ursa laughed, marching up to the girl with his cudgel ready, "I'll teach you to speak to me like-"

*THUNK*

In the speed of a second, you see the bandit knocked off balance before falling flat on his feet, a blunt bolt nearby.

"You'd do well to heed her request." Shella intoned, reloading her slurbow while holding a gloved hand out for the bolt, which the leader returned reluctantly.

"Bah, very...well. You, and you, lead them to the camp. Quicken the pace. I don't want to bother with these scum anymore."

Two bowmen clad in leather alight from their posts and unmask their faces, revealing a young man and woman as they approach and lead your group through the guarded perch, with Ursa giving one of the captives a bash on the head for good measure, adding in a muttered curse along the lines of 'Blasted mages...'

As you pass through the outpost, the artificial lighting grows darker and less reminiscent of a populated area - only the light of Luna and Gurrath's torch shows the way, as well as the two guides along your side. From your position, you can see a subtle shift in the map Syra has given you, seemingly moving the viewpoint in your location and lit only by the torch you brought along.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

"We're nearing the place, I'll lead you to the main encampment and leave you alone. Ursa is just grumpy these days. Most of us young sent out to do the work of the elders due to the sickness." The man shrugs. "Not much to do but hope. We don't even know what is going on here, the elders - or those who are still hale - refuse to say anything about it. There'll be a meeting soon, and judging by your looks, seem to include anyone who can actually capture a mage alive. Poor sods."

The woman continues as if on a cue. "Nothing matters anymore. What ever happened, it's like we're cursed. More are falling ill and we're not even able to see them in their state. Just give us the order to go back, I don't want to return to the camp. Just keep on heading straight and don't mind the thick foliage. Our leader has somehow chosen the best place to make an encampment - in the heart of the forest, and in a ruin of a fort."

Looking back, you remember nearly half of the guards on watch were sporting different characteristics than that of human youth, as if it was a conglomeration of the differing 'fantasy' races you've heard while in the Bastion, as described by a child.

Syra whispers to you, "Sorry about the whole 'I own you' facade earlier. Figured they wouldn't notice. Constant shifts in the watch and all...sorry for intruding. Glad they didn't though. Wouldn't know what to do then."

Spoiler: Captives (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Loot Gathered (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Notes - Poked! (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Dwarmin on November 10, 2012, 03:14:56 am
The old man was lucky Shella has used one of her sandbag bolts-the lead shot would have punched right through his chest.

She clopped forward in front of the group, intent on scanning ahead as best she could. Her heart was beating in her ears, like a drum-the things she had done to be here. There was shame in deception. Her ancestors were not proud.

Thump...Thump

...then again, none of them knew the real reason she was here, did they? It hardly had anything to do with grand destiny.

She had heard of the robbery, the artifact, and who was going to steal it-long before they approached her about the mark. In truth, she had found them. It wasn't hard. It was tricky, manipulating them into accepting her for this mission, but so far it had all worked out.

Thump...Thump

For, there was a man rumored to reside in the bandits camp, up ahead-a wanted man. A very specific man. Not The man, but one step closer to the one she needed to find. One step closer to Tagga. She would have had trouble making it herself...but the group would do enough to get her close. She would turn aside once she got what she wanted from him, when the time was right. No regrets.

Thump.....Thump

Here come the Drums.

Action: Scout ahead as the group moves, reporting any hostilities or dangers I find. Stay hidden and don't engage anything I find.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Caellath on November 10, 2012, 07:38:17 pm
"No, it is fine, Syra. Thanks for your assistance." Eisen said before turning his head back to the path, his gaze still moving around the area attentively.

The foxfolk chuckles as they move deeper into the forest. "Bluffing our way actually worked. A surprisingly good outcome, all things considered."

Onwards to the main camp.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Dwarmin on November 10, 2012, 09:43:36 pm
Shella grunted in Eisens direction. "I was actually joking about bluffing our way past. Expected we'd just get in weapons range before hitting them. You honestly surprised me, there. Brain over brawn, yeah?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Caellath on November 10, 2012, 10:20:07 pm
Shella grunted in Eisens direction. "I was actually joking about bluffing our way past. Expected we'd just get in weapons range before hitting them. You honestly surprised me, there. Brain over brawn, yeah?"

"Just wanted to avoid starting another fight so soon. The sounds would end up drawing more of their people our way, and we'd have to fight our way to the camp." Eisen answered with a smile.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Ochita on November 10, 2012, 11:11:59 pm
"This is very true." Gurrath nods, and looks back at his very eager companion, straining in the ropes to be able to be useful. Chuckling to himself, he decided that the best thing to do is to just act normally, but to also keep an ear out for anything.

Ride as normal, but keep an ear out for anything.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: IronyOwl on November 11, 2012, 03:14:06 am
"This is strange, though. These bandits seem more like a militant village than a band of forceful thieves."

Continue on. Examine main encampment if we reach it.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Digital Hellhound on November 11, 2012, 07:05:18 am
'I'm glad we were spared more pointless bloodshed,' Ecidona said, smiling.

Keep calm and carry on.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Skyrunner on November 12, 2012, 03:49:40 am
Spoiler: Aes (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Reudh on November 13, 2012, 08:32:19 pm
Waitlist I guess >_<
Be gentle, it's my first RTD. :P

Spoiler: Kheir (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Tiruin on November 13, 2012, 11:16:01 pm
Sorry for holding the turn up for quite some time. Having RL issues and wording problems, but its going on smoothly.

In the meantime, I've fixed up the waitlist - any criticism regarding it would be great for me!  :)

Also, welcome to the RTD board Reudh!
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Tiruin on November 14, 2012, 01:03:47 am
Previous: In which we practice orcish diplomacy. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3777097#msg3777097) | Current: In which we're halfway through the chapter. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3790155#msg3790155) | Next: In which the mystery begins. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3808656#msg3808656)

Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

-Turn 10: Knowledge is Power-

(http://i1090.photobucket.com/albums/i368/Tiruin/Dark_Forest-1.jpg?t=1352871824)

Crickets, horses, swallows of the night...The many sounds of the forest blended into a soothing tone as the group moved onwards in near-silence, commenting on their recent luck in hushed voices, uninterrupted by their guides as the atmosphere took on a solemn mood.

Deeper and deeper did the party travel, with the songs of the night fading slowly away into a sepulchral air - nothing could be heard but the soft plodding of hooves and boots on leaf-covered soil. What used to be an open sky was now a thick cobweb of branches and leaves, tiny gaps in the forest heights were the only passages of the lunar light. Occasionally, glimpses of humanoid silhouettes would appear in the distance, only to disappear when being directly looked upon - a trick of the light.

Shella's voice broke the silence, stating her wishes to scout on ahead just to ensure that they were in the right direction. Her gestures were met by somber nods from the guides; as if they, too, were unsure of their own skill at navigation. Not one of them offered to march along with the older woman when they realized the situation.

With no objections raised, the Orc raised the signal, and rode off into the darkness, highlighted only by a faint bluish glow from above.

~~~

"Come one, don't tell me you didn't hear that?"
"Nothing else but the whistling wind...no."
"Doesn't frighten me, if that's your idea of a joke, sire."
"Ok, alright...look up and see what I meant."
"We know what you meant, all we hear is our breathing, the soft mud underneath our boots, the occasional swish of your waterskins and our breathing. Oh, and not to mention those glitterflies and firewings. Crazy buggers lighting up this place, mightily bad if annoyed their branches..."
"They're kind of beautiful close-up, actually."

The column drew to a halt for a second before continuing in lieu of the uninformed guides flanking them.

"Why the cut-chat?"
"We're...appreciating the scenery."
"You had the last hour to appreciate it."
"N-not until now. Look up."
"That was my point- Looking up...*sigh*"

Up above in the cimmerian tops, spires of luminescent tubes lined the trees. Deep-azure in hue and emitting a ghostly light, it was as if these vines were giving off their own bio-luminescence, if it were not for the creatures that flitted around the area. Tiny specks of orange and gold, floating and hovering like dandelion seeds, crossed the gaps between the vines like a network of disorganized ants. Looking downwards, insects resembling fireflies moved amongst thin branches in pairs of twos and threes, nearly invisible in the sky blue glow.

Shella's voice comes back to you as a faint whisper, your surroundings providing the perfect cover as the night breeze picks up despite the thickness of the forest. For those who gaze into their amulets, they see a different sight.

On the crest of a wooded hill and overlooking a clearing in the forest, you recognize the mane of Shella's horse, and beyond that a camp. The camp in question was constructed from the common holdings, cloth, wood and ironbark supports, seemingly fortified by the large rock outcroppings barring a charge into open terrain. Campfires and strange glowing staves dotted the area, with the latter forming a loose perimeter around the scene - one of them near Shella - and quite familiar to the lights at the perch earlier. You could see only a few people, about a hand-count standing watch over the entrances. One was heading in the northern direction while the other came about southwest from the area, only a few yards from where the Orc Huntress was. Your view is partly obscured by the cloak Shella wears.

"No dangers from the tree-dwellers; insects or glowing plants. No other patrols roaming about but the occasional nightwatchmen. The bandits use the terrain as their primary defense - while it seems like open terrain, they've got rudimentary traps hidden in the crevices and bottlenecks. Not too dangerous, but they'd alert anyone nearby judging by their worksmanship. Fortunately, the stone is more to our advantage. I've rounded the area and they're not too vigilant in watching what goes on behind the larger rocks. We could easily climb over the things and leap into the camp with them unawares, making use of the dynamic pathways that snake through the area. Our horses would have to stay behind, given the situation - I see no sign of other horses around. I'm betting they keep their treasure in the middle, as usually assumed. Heavy guard and constant watch proves me right. Can't make out any distinguishable features, unfortunately. Didn't count the guards-assumed their presence. It was dark."

One of the bowmen speaks, casually interrupting your ciphered dialogue.

"We're near the entrance now, sirs and miss'. Tell the elders we're heading back to the westwatch and get the mages to Strom. I'm not sure we can hold out here any longer..."

((You may take this time to dismiss your guides, or attempt to regroup with Shella.))

Spoiler: Captives (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Loot Gathered (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)




Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: GM Notes - Prodded (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Caellath on November 14, 2012, 03:05:23 pm
"We should regroup with Shella. I am not fond of the idea of leaving our horses behind, but the encampment is not the best area to walk around mounted."

Eisen nods towards the direction of the camp. "We'll try to avoid combat at first. We should try to recover our mission's objective and slip out of here without much more fuss."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Dwarmin on November 14, 2012, 07:17:08 pm
Objectives...Shella was sure what the bandits had stolen was important. But what was any trinket compared to finding clues to her sisters whereabouts?

Shella was sure her own target would be sheltered somewhere within. How to find him?

She only knew a bit-he was a High Elven Trader, knowing for dealing with anyone and dealing in anything that would bring him profit. Dressed well, worn a silken patch on his left eye (though he wasn't blind or visually impaired at all, a fact which explained plenty about him), walked with a slight limp on his right leg (which wasn't faked-he had run into some trouble years back with debt collectors). He was fairly a poor swordsman, but was known to employ a pair of Northern Barbarian Blade-sisters who had some skills, at some point in the past. They might have moved on by now.

She had gathered enough information to know he had more or less joined the revolution against his will, after he had been accused of running goods for them. He had been, but he had also been running trade routes for the Kingdom-forced between a quick execution and a uneasy alliance, he had chosen the latter, sheltering within the camp yonder, under the bandits protection in exchange for moving goods back and forth on the black market. He would be sleeping in a fancy tent (Elvish style), maybe not as big as the bandit leader, but well ornamented as befitting his position.

He was the one who had bought Tagga last she could figure from the rumors-ostensibly to polish his saddles. Now she needed to find him, and found out who he had sold her to in turn. And kill him, maybe. She had done that to many who had a hand in it.

A harder question was how to do it without bothering his newfound (and shortlived) allies own quest...she regretted not having more time to know any of them, but at least it made all of this easier...

She could live with many things, but letting others die for her was not one of them. Shella spoke to Eisen through the amulet, and Eisen only she hoped-though it was likely they had someone listening in.

"Eisen? Eisen, are you there?"

Action: Stay put and wait for the party to regroup. Try to spot the tent the Trader might be residing in.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Caellath on November 15, 2012, 12:05:42 am
"Eisen? Eisen, are you there?"

"Yes, I am, miss. Anything in particular?" he aks with a smirk as he silently orders his mount to move.

The orcish woman was an interesting character, but she always seemed in a hurry...As if her companions were nothing but obstacles in her way or tools for her trade and she needed to do or find something with urgency - something higher than their objective, he supposed.

Maybe she was in a search for enlightenment...Although he doubted that a bit.

Regroup with Shella.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Dwarmin on November 15, 2012, 03:27:03 am
Shella grunted.

"I suppose you should know, we'll be parting ways soon enough.

I've been playing all of you the whole time-I knew what I really wanted was here the whole time, and what was going to happen. I needed help to get close to the camp, and you've given me that. See-there's a High Elven trader in the camp, someone who can lead me one step closer to my sister. I'll help you all get the artifact...but after that I'm on my own. Maybe the rest of you have the luxury of saving the World, and I wish you luck in that endeavor, but I only really care about the one small part of the World that I love. She's waiting for me. You understand.

What I mean to say is, I hope you don't take it personally. I'll try not to endanger your mission, but I thought you should be prepared in case something goes wrong. Can you keep this to yourself? What the others know won't hurt them, and some discussions can be saved for easier times."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Ochita on November 15, 2012, 06:49:25 am
Gurrath took a last look at the vines, before deciding that a regroup was in order. If anything, he felt somewhat.. pressured in this forest, as if the life around him was trying to drown out his thoughts. Still, the azure glow from the branches was indeed a sight. Maybe he would have to take up painting or poetry to have a more permanent copy of this in his head.

Hurrying towards Shella and Einsen, he caught the last of a word, and shrugged. Whatever they were talking about was most likely private, so it didn't concern him.

Regroup with Shella.

Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Caellath on November 15, 2012, 08:32:39 am
"What I mean to say is, I hope you don't take it personally. I'll try not to endanger your mission, but I thought you should be prepared in case something goes wrong. Can you keep this to yourself? What the others know won't hurt them, and some discussions can be saved for easier times."

"We all have objectives in our life, or are seeking one. If you already found yours and have the means to fulfill it, then you are a happy person."

Eisen smiled and tapped his flute, as if considering playing it...But such act would most likely attract unwanted attention. Better leave music and mirth for after the mission was completed.

"I can't judge you. You will assist us as we have assisted you, and good luck in your endeavors."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Tiruin on November 16, 2012, 08:50:18 pm
((I take it you are all for regrouping and nothing else?))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Caellath on November 16, 2012, 10:50:20 pm
((Yes, regroup.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 10: Knowledge is Power
Post by: Digital Hellhound on November 17, 2012, 08:48:54 am
((Yah, nothing special.))
Title: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Tiruin on November 20, 2012, 05:33:15 am
Previous: In which we're halfway through the chapter. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3790155#msg3790155) | Current: In which the mystery begins. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3808656#msg3808656) | Next: In which we investigate. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3813889#msg3813889)

Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

-Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...-


You hear the footsteps of the bowmen slowly fade into silence as you make your way to Shella's position, confident in your purpose. You have gotten this far without any major mistakes, and you won't be giving it up now. Looking at your cargo, they seem compliant in staying in their inert state, uncomplaining and seemingly, defeated.

Your horses flank Shella as you gaze at the sight you had witnessed earlier, the very details she pointed out, yet now in clear view emphasized by the lighting around you.

{1 > 1}

As you decide on the plan of attack, the center-most pavilion of the camp lights up in a garish blue for a few seconds, lighting the whole camp and its surrounding perimeter until the skyline, stretching farther and farther until your position, stopped only by the thick veil of trees. Its brightness illuminates the area before fading to the faint azure of the skies above. You can make out seven faint silhouettes by the shadows cast against the canvas walls, seemingly arrayed in a concentric pattern judging by the distance. Faint images of what seem to be pagan runes or at least some kind of writing system flash in the corners of your vision as an afterimage as the light recedes.

If there was any commotion or natural reaction by the inhabitants of the camp or the surrounding areas, none were sighted or seen except for the indistinct scent of candlewax and herbal fragrances now pervading the atmosphere.

The sound of a falling body in the hard mud alerts those with keen hearing, and you discover that one of your captives has fallen, his bound face relaxed and staring into the skies above.

You can hear the muffled cries of the others in their restraints, intoning a feeling of fear or shock. However, you also sense a certain tension...within the camp, and feel your strength wane for a moment before returning.

Spoiler: Captives (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Loot Gathered (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)



Previous:  | Current: In which the mystery begins. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3808656#msg3808656) | Next: In which we delve underground. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3827164#msg3827164)
Erstwhile...

The night was calm, silent and serene - foggy, but peaceful in Luna's wake. The occasional bang of a window shutter or the creaking of lantern hinges echoed through the empty streets, marking out the only sounds of life. Closed merchant stalls and woodwork containers dotted the sides of the road, casting lurid shadows in the figures of twisted apparitions under the fiery shades of the night lights, creating a moderately 'pleasing' aesthetic view as you convene for the rat hunt.

Hours pass as you wait upon the Seneschal in a shady location directly above and adjacent to a tavern cellar and a catacomb passage in the town surrounding the Bastion. Soon enough, you hear a dog barking in the distance. Along the cobbled road and past the well and tri-junction, a large, dark greyhound approached, closely followed by a tall man in field plate, bearing the symbol of the Bastion on his chestpiece. At his side hanging by a leather baldric, was a sheathed long sword along with a leather-bound tome hanging by a chain to his belt. The duo stop mere feet from the group.

"I believe you're the group I've been sent to organize. Are you all ready to purge these blighters from our land?" he says, getting a lantern from the roadside. "I figure you're all waiting for some action-but also a few lessons to learn.

"You are those he talked about, aye?"

((For those who post here, will be in this sub-quest. For those who don't, don't worry :P Current mission players cannot post in relation to this.

Your sheets are located on the Waitlist - First Page.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Tiruin on November 21, 2012, 06:51:35 am
((ALSO, any criticism? What seems missing and all would be a nice help...))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Digital Hellhound on November 21, 2012, 07:08:10 am
Magic. Ecidona could taste it, a cold, metallic tinge in the air. Her gaze was drawn to the center pavilion - she could practically see the residue magical energy in the air. It was time to make herself usel.

'Stay close to me,' Ecidona said, and embraced the Silence.

Use my powers, create a magic-resitant/blanking field around me
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Caellath on November 21, 2012, 08:47:05 am
"I suppose you all also felt that. The question is whether they discovered us or if that happened by chance only."

His gaze shifts to the bound men, but he shakes his head.

"We could ask our captives about it, but the risk they may start shouting or otherwise attract the enemies' attention is too high. Do you know anything about this, Syra?"

Get off the horse and start to move into the camp through the path of the rocks Shella previously pointed out.

Eisen sighs as he starts to advance to check on matters.
"Although I doubt we should linger much longer here."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Tiruin on November 21, 2012, 08:54:38 am
Syra's ward held onto her guardian, afraid. Syra herself stood close to the group.

"I...really know nothing about any of this. If I did, I'd have led you all into a trap, right? But...this doesn't feel good."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Harry Baldman on November 21, 2012, 09:06:53 am
At the man's approach, Krikt felt a familiar need resurface - the need to exterminate. A great discomfort washes over her insect mind as she fights to repress the urge.

He is near. He does not belong. Why is neither he nor his creature companion dead yet? It would be so simple. Extend jaws, snap. The stranger would perish quickly and his remains would be repurposed for the good of all. So why...

Krikt stops herself from these thoughts. She is not in the hive. She is outside. He is not a threat. The keepers did not teach her to behave like this.

She repeats the mantra of the keepers to keep herself docile.

The self is nothing. The group is all. The group shall deliver.

Follow the group and she shall be delivered. Best remain silent and allow the leaders to act.

Wait for someone of the group to speak up.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Dwarmin on November 21, 2012, 01:57:57 pm
As a rule, Shella tended to dislike things she knew nothing about. Too many risks meant eventually your luck run out...There was no time for many questions, though. She had seen the tent during the flash. She was sure that was the right one.

After the questioning, Shella motioned for the others to move forward quietly as she picked a path for them through the traps, alarms and patrols-keeping Ecidona in the center of them. She would need help moving and concentrating on a spell at the same time, one that could hopefully offer them some protection-from whatever they were going to face...

Action: Dismount and lead the group in infiltrating the camp-stay close to Ecidona and make sure she can keep her shield up over the team, while keeping her undetected.
Edit: Wait till Sal'salvira is done with questions to move
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Dwarmin on November 22, 2012, 04:59:53 am
((Bump? O_o))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: IronyOwl on November 22, 2012, 05:47:59 am
((No real criticism.))

Sal'savira tilted her head. That was not good.

"Captives should know of this; if not, it means something strange has happened.

You," she said, removing one's gag. "What is the meaning of this?"

Degag and interrogate a captive.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Tiruin on November 22, 2012, 06:21:53 am
Previous: In which the mystery begins. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3808656#msg3808656) | Current: In which we investigate. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3813889#msg3813889) | Next: In which we manipulate the Arts. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3827164#msg3827164)

Degag and interrogate a captive. {5 > 2}
((All those 5s...))

Turn 11b: Interrogation.

"Did it have to be that tight?" Dweonir said as the Malkaven loosened the cloth. "Well, don't bother asking anyone else here, I was joking!"

"What I know, is that our contractor - don't ask again, yes we were hired by him - some kind of knife-ears merchant with a penchant for exotic deals and a hand at transporting goods over large distances very easily. I'd not want to reiterate what was said: our people are dying and we need mages for aid due to the strange ...strangely the other scouting groups found them, I think. Not sure how...or we'd know, I...guess." he gestured with his eyes at the tents surrounding the center. "I think they're working on a healing spell. As for anything else...I truly have no idea. Those tents surrounding it, hold our wounded, dying and- dead..."

He sighs before gripping the gag with his teeth, looking at you with a sneer. "R'yoo gnna silensh ee' aghen?"


Spoiler: Fun Fact (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Ochita on November 22, 2012, 07:06:57 am
Gurrath readies his spear, face settling into a frown. Nodding to the others, he dismounts his horse, and prepares to sneak, saying a small prayer to whatever gods are out there.

Infiltrate the camp with the group, protecting Ecidona
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: mesor on November 22, 2012, 07:35:20 am
Offer my hand to shake.
"I am one of the group yes, how many of these blighters do I need to kill?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Dwarmin on November 22, 2012, 07:36:43 am
Shella heard as the results of the interrogation were passed on. So he was there...this was going to get tricky...but if most of the camp was down for the count, it would explain the lax patrols. They had to hurry now, yes.

She turned her head, then, hearing Gurrath praying.

"I hope your Gods are listening to you, friend, because mine stopped years ago." Shella said thought the amulet after he was done, smiling to herself.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: adwarf on November 22, 2012, 11:48:18 am
"Aye, now lets hurry and get this damned thing over with, there are some taverns somewhere with good ale calling for me, and women to chase after."

Trent said as he scratched at the rugged beard on his face, and a rather grim expression on his face at the though of missing a chance to drink.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Spinal_Taper on November 22, 2012, 03:52:01 pm
Terys nods then takes his unstrung bow from the ground. He looks over it for a moment before stringing it and smiling.
"Yeah. Where do we start?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: Tiruin on November 23, 2012, 04:25:47 pm
((Will be updating later on...Sorry for the delays.))

Edit: Addendum: GM has fallen ill as of the post and before that. Symptoms have only recently manifested.

We apologize for this inconvenience.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 11: The Enemy of my Enemy...
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on November 26, 2012, 05:12:39 am
(A few items.

1. Whatever bug it is you caught, get well soon, Tiruin.
2. Bump off of the... fourth page, I think it was.
3. Behold the only fire-type character... :P

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

4. Is it just me or have only four people (Harry, mesor, adwarf, Spinal) jumped on the subquest?  If that means there's still a fifth spot open and I'm allowed to, I'm taking it because all you guys are too lazy and didn't do so in the past six days. :P)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Tiruin on November 26, 2012, 04:27:27 pm
Previous: In which we investigate. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3813889#msg3813889) | Current: In which we manipulate the Arts. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3827164#msg3827164) | Next: In which morning comes. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4533416#msg4533416)

Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

-Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies-

[1]
[Average Infiltration Roll: 3+1]

Anti-magic Field continuing for three more turns.

With a quiet murmur of agreement, the group dismounted and readied their weapons, moving right next to the rock wall at the base of the hill, pressing close to it while keeping watch over each other.

A quick glance, and a silent nod: this was it, the time of reckoning, their first official mission drawing to a close with victory right in their sights.

'Stay close to me.'

The blanking field has been activated! Magical powers and environmental effects have weakened use outside of party control!

Ecidona clasped one of the many amulets hung around her neck and began incanting the words taught by the Sisters.

As if the silhouettes of the forest couldn't grow any more evident, the same would be said of the group's outline. A thin veil of shimmering, translucent weave hovered above each one of the party's skin and the ground under and around them, forming a certain figure between each member, and quickly taking the shape of the character before fading back into nothingness seconds after. As you look back up to scale the wall, you could see Syra bidding you good luck before attending to the bandits.

Up and over the hard wall, the party moved from tent to tent, utilizing the effect of Ecidona's spell as they moved. Not one object on their persons could be heard clanking around, or even their footsteps on the rocky soil. A simple spell of warding, now a great advantage.

Nearer and nearer you get to the central tent. Sideward glances only earning you the ire of the burning torches, and the sign of emptiness in the camp where most other tents lie, speechless of any sound, hollow and bare. Your weapons feel out of place, as the feeling of loneliness creeps in. The pavilion emits the same light at frequent intervals counting about minutes in between, yet you feel no effect. The number of figures seem to have dropped, though, until only a handful remain, nearly indiscernible with the other objects in the tent: weapon racks, chairs, tables and what seemed to be a bookshelf. Tiny sticks resembling candles could also be seen past the other tents situated around it.

[Progress: 2]

Moving behind another low barricade of crates and a wheelbarrow, you can see the light shifting to an emerald green now, including faint cursing and angered words, similar to one speaking in a way which states disapproval. The tents surrounding the center do not indicate any movement, nor any of the surrounding sides.

It was like a grave, with the magic in the air emitting the odors one would expect in a grave.

((You are only a sprint away from the center, with the entrance turned opposite from your direction. You can only see vague figures in the tent, numbering at about ~6 or so.))

Spoiler: Captives (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Group Loot (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: GM Notes. (click to show/hide)


Previous: In which the mystery begins. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3808656#msg3808656) | Current: In which we delve underground. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3827164#msg3827164) | Next: In which we meet a tangle. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4533416#msg4533416)
Meanwhile...

The Knight looks you over one by one, nodding at the sight of the ant and the wolf, "He wasn't kidding when he said a motley crew. But what do you expect of rat hunters..." He shakes his head before gesturing, leading the way away from the center of the village and farther up the road out. You follow, some of you with curious expressions while the rest of boredom or blatant annoyance.

"Now let me be clear. When they mentioned rats, you expect the wee biters at about hand size that gnaw through the stores and granaries during harvest and winter, aye? Let me disappoint you." He shines his lantern up the path, now leading towards a hill where you see another light - and even more of your people. Others from the Bastion, where most are recognizable from earlier along with the new faces which turned up, most probably at the Seneschal's call.

"You are many!" the Knight says, standing at the crest of the hill and looking down at the gathered people. "Yet will you be enough? What we face is the dreaded ratling - a cross between vermin and thief, a plague on our land and our people. Diminutive in size with teeth that can penetrate armor and bone alike. And better yet, they know how to settle-"

He unsheathes his sword and points it at the other side of the hill. Those of curious mind follow the sword, moving up the hill to get a better glimpse to see a large chasm in the ground resembling a sewer entrance, skewed diagonally and bearing a broken, rusty grate along with a red symbol painted just above it.

"-beneath our very feet. I can swear, they know the place as if it was natural to them...Granted, all that's keeping us from an invasion is that symbol over there. But that's all just hearsay, I say."

~~~

[1]

The grate swings open with a tortured ringing of metal to reveal a gigantic chamber, and all at once the band of men, woman and animalfolk plunge into the depths below, their only lights being that of the moon, and those they brought with them, until they come across a large, hallow chamber.

Most of the chamber is shaped like a half-sphere, colored in greyish tones and covered with growing moss and scum, remnants of stagnant water dot the passages and crevices in the floor. Tree roots could be seen crawling along the cracked ceiling, which was mostly covered with flimsy webbing from spiders of an ancient time. Small crystalline patches cover the area, lighting up the place with their own bio-luminescence in a scintillating greenish blue.

"It looks like we're camping here. Designate a watch, we're to expect company soon. When you're ready...just tap that stone over there," the Knight says, gesturing towards a loose, raised block in the floor right in the junction of three other passages leading in the dark, obeying the cardinal directions from the South, being your entrance. "You can scout around, check the tunnels. Don't mind the infernal squeaking and tapping of metal around you, though. It's just the rats. And probably spiders. Or the crawlers...I forget."

As he speaks, you can hear the faint rumble of the ground and feel your bodies shift to the tremors. "Or probably stone worms...err, perhaps this was not the best idea of training for you lot. Though I need a majority vote on backing out. Do I hear any ayes?"

Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: mesor on November 26, 2012, 04:38:16 pm
Divide up the mob into those armed and those not, have those not stay at the back and only move forward to replace a dead man, they can use his weapon, follow Trent, draw my bow.

"So do you have any idea how many ratlings are down here
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Harry Baldman on November 26, 2012, 04:44:59 pm
Backing out? What kind of minion would Krikt be if she would just back out? She is nothing if she cannot follow even the simplest of orders. Honestly, the very idea was absolutely asinine. The stone worms, though, they were new.

Krikt requires more information. She focuses her antennae and speaks:

"What are stone worms, stranger?"

They are probably an obstacle. Well, no matter. Obstacles are made to be overcome. Then recycled.

Get a feel for my teammates by poking them with my antennae and mandibles. Gauge their queen-like qualities.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: adwarf on November 26, 2012, 05:00:13 pm
"You fellows can bloody well back out if you want to, those of you with some guts can stay here and come with me. A few of us should head into the tunnels and see what we can find while the rest prepare for those that will attack us here as I'm sure these damn rats will."

Trent put on his helmet as he spoke, the black raven covering the front glistening slightly from the pool of light the group's various lights emitted, with that done he swung the upper haft of his axe onto his soldier and waited.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Caellath on November 26, 2012, 08:29:20 pm
Eisen moved with his legs bent and his body low, in a half-crouch, ready to raise and sprint to take a better position at a moment's notice. His longbow was with him, an arrow notched and his eyes sharply scanning the nearby area for threats. They were almost there, and they had suffered little in the way of injuries so far.

He hoped nothing would go wrong. Success was near, and with it, victory. Even with Ecidona's magical field working, he preferred not to talk. Eisen was focused, and he transmitted his message through gestures: Keep going. When we get close enough, take them down and fulfill our objective.

Keep moving towards the center. If engaged in combat, prioritize getting some distance between the attacker and pincushioning him with arrows.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on November 27, 2012, 07:01:15 pm
Royce adjusted his eyepatch and looked at the motley crew around him. One Water, three Airs, one Light, two Darks, one Earth, and I make one Fire. Still works like a charm, he thought, taking a moment to buff the nails of his right hand against his cape. "What, me worry? Pff, please. I've been swallowed whole and digested by dragons." Ah, the days of virgin sacrifices. Those are long past. "A few rats and stone worms aren't going to scare me." Even if I die, I'll just be right back again anyway. Although it'll be another fourteen or so years before I'm up to anything. Might be nice to be a woman again if that happens. Haven't been one in, oh, two hundred years, social customs have changed enough it might be interesting to give that a run. And I do miss wearing skirts quite a bit. On the other hand, nothing stopping me from wearing one right now. I should look into it, see if there's a good dressmaker around. Wish I still had the figure I had back at the end of the Age of Storms, that incarnation could really pull off any clothing I wanted... He sighed and looked around.

"Well, I volunteer for the scouting party. Sewers can be awfully fun if you're of the right inclination but I'm just not in the mood to be down here right now. Sooner we get this over with, the sooner I can go shopping," Royce said, putting a hand on the hilt of his sword. "Anyone else coming with, or shall I be entertaining only the rats and worms with my dazzling swordplay and witty one liners?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Dwarmin on November 27, 2012, 07:51:47 pm
Shella grunted through the amulet.

Which was apparently an affirmative in Orcish.

Action: Continue moving toward the center with the others. If anyone gets close to discovering us, concentrate on a silent hand-to-hand takedown.[/b
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Spinal_Taper on November 28, 2012, 12:05:25 am
Herys hissed slowly. To a normal person, it would sound like a snake. To anyone familiar with him, they would know that was how he sighed. He had expected an easy mission, at least at first. But no to that, soon as he starts looking for work, it's stone worms. Then he saw the man with the eyepatch.
What the hell's the wannabe pirate thinking?
He shrugged, habitually checked his bow, then walked up beside him, slinging the bow onto his back.
"I'm headin there too. Don't want this guy to take all the doubloons, or whatever it is he's after."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: adwarf on November 28, 2012, 12:08:17 am
"You two, and anyone else can follow if they want, I'm off to finish this. I'd like to have some ale before tomorrow rolls around."

With that Trent turned, and began walking through one of the tunnels with his axe in hand.

Head off down one of the main tunnels
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Reudh on November 28, 2012, 03:13:03 am
"You call yourself a knight, and you are backing out? I can feel them through my feet. They are not angry. That being said I shall follow Trent."

Kheir follows after Trent, in a fairly guarded stance.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on November 28, 2012, 03:37:45 am
"I'm not after doubloons, they went out of style ages ago and hardly anyone accepts them as currency anymore. I'm not saying I won't take 'em if we find 'em, though. What about you? Cosplaying as an elven ranger? Sheesh, elves are so stuffy. I was one of those centuries ago. Got stabbed in the liver by some crazy kitsune lady, bled out in a cave. Bones are probably still rotting there, it was pretty deep in." Sometimes he wondered if he was his own descendent. It was possible. Not likely, usually, but possible.

"Hey, you know what the best part about being hung is?" Royce formed his hands into two gun shapes and pointed them at Terys. "All the guys are so jealous you might get hung for real! Ah, that was a good one. Let's go." The slightly crazed trickster took the lead, pushing past Trent to head down the same tunnel. But first. He didn't feel like following at the moment.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Digital Hellhound on November 28, 2012, 07:05:32 am
Ecidona held the Silence, letting it wash over her, hiding her emotions and petty fears in its depths. She continued with the others, staying focused.

Move on, Silence on
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Skyrunner on November 28, 2012, 08:33:51 am
(Subquest)

Aes snapped out of the reverie she was in at the rumble and the nervous man's words. She glanced at him, not a very comforting one.

"I thought you were a man..." Aes says, softly. She wanders after the people who were heading on. Perhaps she helped shake the man into coming with them. She just loved when it worked, and loved when it didn't, too. It was all part of the big game everyone was in but few knew they were playing. Very very few.

((People on the subquest, let's append "subquest" so both the GM and the players can tell them apart xD))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Ochita on November 28, 2012, 11:27:16 am
Gurrath didn't blink, only pausing momentarily to look around the area, while staying in the group.

Continue moving.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Spinal_Taper on November 28, 2012, 06:33:35 pm
"Cosplaying, what do you think-"
As he processed Royces words, it finally clicks for him, and he jogs to catch up with Royce. Once he's even with him, he taps him on the shoulder.
"Wait, you've died? What are you?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on November 28, 2012, 06:54:06 pm
"Me? I'm Royce Orange, the traveling entertainer. You might have heard of me." He grinned. "Not the answer you wanted, is it? All right. I like you, you have the guts to just ask me, so I'll tell you but I don't expect the name to mean anything to anyone - it's literally been ages since anyone's spoken it. I'm Lalawethika. The spirit who managed to anger the implacable Matoskah enough that a curse was laid on him for all eternity that he be bound to the mortal cycle until nothing left was born on this earth to hold his essence? Ah, didn't figure it would register. Anyway, until literally everything on this planet dies, I'm pretty much doomed to be born every time my current incarnation dies naturally or gets killed off, and that happens more than you'd think, too. I think I might have died of old age, once, and that was... seven centuries ago or so? Hard to keep track of time when you're as old as I am."

He grinned. "If you'd ever met Matoskah, you'd be impressed that I managed to piss him off. Took me YEARS to get under his skin, and it's STILL worth it. Plus being a mortal's not so bad. I kind of forget what I am at times, though. I really liked being a bear. I was one last time, 'til I got killed by a pack of hunters and probably turned into boots. I think I might be wearing myself, in fact." He raised a foot to look at his boots. "No, I was a black bear last. These are brown-furred."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Spinal_Taper on November 28, 2012, 07:22:48 pm
"You're a spirit, huh? Interesting."
He nods a few times.
" Jus' like dad always said. You know what? I'd like to hear s'more of your stories, Lalawthika. Y'seem like an interesting guy. So, just how long have you been surviving forever?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on November 28, 2012, 08:11:40 pm
"Oh, wow. That's a tough question. I don't remember when I first 'woke up', so to speak. I just... was. This was back before any of the sentient races knew how to walk on two legs, let alone create languages and myths and all that interesting stuff that I like about them so much. Myth. Yes, that was it. What you call the Age of Myth. It was about the middle of that era that I earned myself this little curse." Royce stopped for a moment and looked around, just in case anyone who shouldn't be like the rest of the party or rats or stone worms was listening, then went back to his ramblings.

"That was... I think six ages ago by how mortals reckon them. I'll be honest, I thought I might've found freedom during the Age of Death - that was when the sun and moon were sundered. I didn't see it happen, unfortunately; I think at the time I was tipping over cows in a dwarven mountainhome. It seems to match up right chronologically, though hell if I can remember. Heh. Should've figured that even a dead God's curse is more powerful than magic. And to be honest I haven't really been looking for a way to break the curse myself. I ain't going to complain if it happens, but I'll settle for seeing what I might be next, or what's going to happen to the world while I'm still in it. Anyway, we got nothing but time - or at least, I certainly do, heh - and nothing bothering us. What do you want to ask about?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Spinal_Taper on November 28, 2012, 08:34:35 pm
His eyes shone a little as Lalawthika spoke. A spirit, straight from one of his fathers texts. Immortal, able to see the world, able to see what normal people could not. A treasure trove of tales, of stories and wisdom.
"Did you ever fight anything big back then? Like a hydra? Or a dragon?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on November 29, 2012, 01:20:57 am
Royce grinned. "Fought them? I've BEEN them! The only one I remember all that clearly was back in the Age of... Alchemy, I think. About the middle of the time period. I was a magnificent white-scaled dragon. They called me Taregan, and I was worshipped by hundreds of thousands. Armies at my command, mountains of gold in my hoard, and temples of polished marble stretching to the clouds containing statues of my image. My people's enemies were sacrificed to my glory." The spirit sighed. "Got too old and complacent. Did you ever hear of the... well, you're elven, you probably have heard stories of your people's hero Ryoro Norrendlin. When my armies marched on his fortress, the last stronghold of the northern elves, he challenged me to single combat. I didn't think a lone elf could defeat me, so I accepted. But, like I said, old. I'd lost a few scales in a few vital areas and my reflexes weren't as good as they were in Taregan's youth."

He tapped his cheekbone, just below his left eye. "Final arrow went through my eye. Last thing I remember, and the most clear memory I have from Taregan's life, is seeing that arrow coming and being too slow to dodge it. Ended up being Ryoro's daughter Kalanna - born at the same moment Taregan died - and fighting in the war upon my previous worshippers. Who else has been lucky enough to have the chance to smash their own temples and steal their own gold from themselves? Even killed a dragon myself, some red-scaled female who they bribed with Taregan's riches to take his place when they started losing. Coincidentally, I have to say I learned a lot about how to kill a dragon from dear old dad there..." Royce grinned.

"Of course, like I said earlier, I've been eaten by dragons, too. That period of my life was nothing but dragons, one way or another."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Tiruin on November 29, 2012, 09:13:37 am
((Awaiting Irony's action ^^))

Why do I feel like this is all a follow-the-leader thing? :/ Yes this is transparent because I'm too concerned about what is going on and if something is wrong with what I did...
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Spinal_Taper on November 29, 2012, 07:39:04 pm
"Only a half-elf, to be honest. Heard of Ryoro, though, of course. So, is it true about Taregan? Y'know, butchering the innocent and roasting their property."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on November 29, 2012, 10:37:00 pm
"Some of it. I ate a lot of people; some of them may have been innocent, but I wasn't checking out the history of everyone my subjects brought to me. Food was food and I didn't particularly care if the person in front of me was a virgin maiden or a mass murderer or a hero. And oh yeah, I burned a lot of places to the ground. It was fun and it gave my armies the edge in war." Royce shrugged. "I've been around long enough to know human nature. If I hadn't torched those buildings, people inevitably would have themselves, and done it a lot less inefficiently - anyone inside when I burned the places down didn't have time to feel the dragonfire incinerating them. Trust me, when push comes to shove, all sentient beings are animals down at their core and they will act like it. I just choose to embrace the animal inside rather than deny it."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Spinal_Taper on November 30, 2012, 09:30:27 pm
He nods, continuing to walk down the tunnel. After a few moments, he turns his head back around and looks at Royce.
"So, uh, you ever someone who was called a hero by people like me?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on November 30, 2012, 09:57:02 pm
Royce laughed, long and quietly. "Hero, me? To be a hero you have to follow a certain set of guidelines or morality or whatever people want to call it. If any of my incarnations were ever a hero, they would have been folk heroes at best. There was one life where a certain man who had stolen a throne had pissed me off in a previous life - details aren't important, although let's say one never does get used to daggers to the liver - so I spent all of it pretty much making his rule miserable. I besmirched his name, I repeatedly poisoned and ambushed his soldiers, I stole from his tax collectors and gave the money to whatever peasants I felt like to undermine his authority, I stole state secrets and sold them to the neighboring kingdoms. My masterstroke was confronting him on the eve of a battle and telling him exactly who I had been last and what I had dedicated this entire life to doing before humiliating him in front of his troops."

He grinned. "His army surrendered the next day and his minor monarchy was consumed by the Komodian Empire. I even became a mythological figure for the life of the Empire. That was during the Age of Myth, so it's too far back for anyone but the most studious of scholars to know of. But I think if you could find and read the stories of Kigus Phaedran, you might enjoy some of the more ridiculous things I got up to in my effort to overthrow the tyrant Serpolgha." He checked his surroundings once more, wondering when the hell Sal'savira was going to stop standing around and do something. (Hey, we got amulets we can use to check on the main party, right? Totally justified. :P)

"I gotta be honest though. For every life I tell you about where I was someone important or famous, there are almost a thousand where I never amounted to much of anything. Half of it's the luck of the draw. Sometimes I'd be born in a more fun body like a dragon, or I'd stumble across an interesting situation to insert myself in, but most of the time things were relatively quiet across the land or I just didn't feel like going out of my way to get involved with things. And there's a lot of things I've forgotten, too. Some of it on purpose, like the one time I decided to try out being a hermit - Gods was that boring, never did that again - and some are things I just can't recall too clearly no matter how much I try. For example, I can tell you that at one point in my existence I was a dwarf fighting in a civil war. Can't tell you what side I was on, or why the war happened, just that I was there." Royce shrugged.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: IronyOwl on November 30, 2012, 09:59:32 pm
((Sorry!))

Keep sneaking forward into the tent.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Spinal_Taper on November 30, 2012, 10:19:04 pm
"Makes sense. Many more regular joes than Ryoros. Do you keep anything from your previous lives, other than memories? Like, skills for example?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on November 30, 2012, 10:29:03 pm
Royce made a non-committal gesture with his left hand. "Depends on what they are. If I get shoved into a dragon next time, I'd have to learn how to fly all over again because it's been so long. I would learn how faster than a normal dragon because I'd have those subconscious tendencies to do things correctly, but I wouldn't actually 'know' what I was doing. Same with fighting. I don't have any formal training or skills, but I've trained this body to be good at it and I still have good instincts and reactions in battle. Sometimes, though, the skills I can remember aren't applicable with the current body I'm in. This skin can't color itself to match its surroundings, and it's not good for running quadrupedal herbivores down for lunch. It is good for having my way with lionesses, though." Although Royce's expression was deadly serious, there was the slightest hint of a smile in his voice that made it easy to believe he was joking... while still leaving open the possibility that he wasn't.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 12: Under Twilit Skies
Post by: Spinal_Taper on November 30, 2012, 10:51:27 pm
Herys hesitated a second.
Uh... I'm going to just say he was kiddin'
Then, he speeds into a light jog, catching up with Royce. However, now he is silent. Whether it's due to the lioness comment or because he ran out of things to say is a mystery.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on December 12, 2012, 04:48:16 am
(Twelve day 'does this only need a bump to get it off the fourth page or is it dead?' post. :P)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Revived!
Post by: Tiruin on December 12, 2012, 04:51:33 am

~Nine months later...
On the last day of the fourth week of August,
Saturn’s Day.


"Iacta alea est"
(http://i1090.photobucket.com/albums/i368/Tiruin/ChapterI_zps8f8f0250.png)
~~The Story Thus Far~~
Spoiler: Chapter I (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Subquest (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: Changelog (click to show/hide)



Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Revived!
Post by: Tiruin on August 24, 2013, 11:42:55 pm
Previous: In which we manipulate the Arts. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3827164#msg3827164) | Current: In which morning comes. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4533416#msg4533416) | Next: In which we follow our objective. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4534018#msg4534018)

Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

-Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning-
(http://i1090.photobucket.com/albums/i368/Tiruin/Morning_zps70e89875.png)

[Average Infiltration Roll: 6+1]

Anti-magic Field continuing for Two more turns.

[Progress: 5. . .]

It was morning. The shades of night developed into light, joyous tones as the skies reflected the fiery colors of the day. However, in a secluded area of land far off from the main road, trouble was brewing. For a party of five, tension was in the air. Their chain of events led to this, and at this point nothing would stop them.

Keep moving towards the center.
If engaged in combat, prioritize getting some distance between the attacker and pincushioning him with arrows.
   Eisen nodded to the group, before moving forward in a crouch until he was close enough to view the entrance.

   The foxfolk was well aware of the dangers this presented. Being the first into the field usually meant being a priority target for any watchful foes, but he was fleet of foot, and his steps carried him soundlessly until he was about a few yards from the entrance. He signaled with his hands as he kept an arrow nocked to the bow, never leaving his gaze from the opening after surveying the area. 'Keep going. When we get close enough, take them down and fulfill our objective. The way is clear. '
Action: Continue moving toward the center with the others. If anyone gets close to discovering us, concentrate on a silent hand-to-hand takedown.
Move on, Silence on
Keep sneaking forward into the tent.
Continue moving.
   Shella replied in turn, moving up towards the entry, keeping a hand on her newly-found axe. The two could hear no movement coming from inside other than their own moving into position. Given the opportunity, she looked around.

   There was nothing else in the camp other than the usual structures: tents, torches, sacks--presumably carrying whatever rationed food or other utility supplies the owners had--as well as the conspicuous lack of people in the area. The whole field was like a depression in the land, with the central tent being the lowest point as everything around seemed to curve inward at a faint angle. Seeing that there was no immediate threat, she gestured at Ecidona to check the area for safe measure.

   Now, Ecidona was to be said to be a vital part of this mission as--not compared to the others, of course--all played a role. She was a Silent Sister, trained in the art of inhibiting negative energy and other un-theurgic notions, and though she held a candor reverie at the moment, she knew that she was afraid, and hid it as best as she could. She took a deep breath and focused on her studies, feeling her body and mind reach a degree of placidity as the Silence washed over her like intangible waves. She slowly approached the tent, and stopped at the entrance as she felt the subtle prickle of an unworldly presence: the feeling of uncertainty, fear and unbelonging. The intuitive feeling that something wrong was in the air. Her focus wavered, and she saw the others feel the same awareness she had moments ago.

   Granted, her temperament was all that was needed to stop the force from overwhelming her senses, as she was able to maintain her mental incantation. The atmosphere calmed for everyone else.
   "What is wrong?" Sal'savira asked in her quietest of tones. Ecidona replied with a shake of her head, and the Malkaven decided to answer her own curiosity. Her hands clenched, as far as 'hands' they were, and the knucklebones strapped to her talon-like fingers emitted a low, faint glow, reminiscent of the element of its owner years before. She felt a tap to her right, and saw Gurrath along with his spear pointed and angled at the entrance, which was covered only by that thin fabric we call as the 'flap'. He looked around and nodded at the Seeker, and together, they pulled it open.

   "Nobody."

   The inside of the tent looked larger than the outside, judging by Sal'savira's word as she stepped inside. Right in front of her-and supporting the entryway along with its covering-were two of the strange glowing staves seen earlier around the camp perimeter, marking the entryway. Up close, they resemble a torch with one of the luminescent vines wrapped around the tip, holding together its source of light and its base along with several notches on the right-hand stave. Farther onwards were various details and objects:

At the far end of the tent was a rack holding an ensemble of figurines ranging from the mundane human effigy to some of the stranger and rare creatures of the world--some of which bore multiple appendages and far too many 'heads' for a normal creature to have--as well as a small set of flasks, each with their own colored liquid, none of which were labeled or exhibiting a white or translucent appearance. Like a rainbow.

At the right hand side lay a stack of long, thin logs. Shaped much like the wider versions of the staves, most of them measure about ten feet in length. A pile of vines much like those you saw before lies on top of the stack, along with a few trinkets and coins of silver, gold, copper and emerald hue.

At the left was a collection of assorted books and torn pages, seemingly cut and wrenched from their holdings along with bundles and piles of 'assorted' scrolls forming a messy heap along with several knives and short swords. Fabric similar to the that which comprised the tent is seen covering most of the heap and folded just like clothes--neatly.

In the middle lay the most intriguing facet. A tiny, opalescent orb about one foot in diameter rests upon an improvised pedestal--a brazier--covered in violet silk judging by how the lighting indicates its smoothness. Around the brazier lay nothing else but ground, cleared of any items. Strangely, it is also clear of any people, too.

As you ponder upon this, a familiar voice makes itself noticed. "What's going on down there?" it says, sounding much like Rhea talking right next to you.

But she isn't nearby.



Spoiler: Captives (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Group Loot (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: NPCs//Ranges (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: GM Notes. (click to show/hide)


Previous: In which we delve underground. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3827164#msg3827164) | Current: In which we meet a tangle. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4533416#msg4533416) | Next: In which we are readied. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4610097#msg4610097)

Meanwhile...

"What are stone worms, stranger?"

"I'll take that as a nay, then? That is the colloquial term people use to describe them. Living worms living on stone." the man flips open the tome by his belt, "'sensitive to vibrations, very dense and in particular, lethal when felled upon any creature from a height.' as said here."

Krikt ponders the reply, and turns to the rest of you. In her mind, she senses no discernible qualities of a queen in the area, or any characteristics of such--pheromones, scents and other chemicals.

"You call yourself a knight, and you are backing out? I can feel them through my feet. They are not angry. That being said I shall follow Trent."
The man gives you an amused look, " A man who pledges service to his sovereign or lord. Generally, as a soldier. Whatever other characteristics you could give him is but a label, but to answer you, no. I am not backing out. I am just breaking the ice between you all--pretty silent, for a group of your size."

But he raises an eyebrow at your observation. "But I'll give you that, you're astute. Keep that mind open."

Spoiler: Scouting Party (click to show/hide)

"And it seems everyone shall say nay. Good job, fellows. Good job indeed. We head North, then. Better to stick together than fall apart, as they say."

[Random tunnel roll: 3 - North//Middle]

The group, lead by Trent and arbitrarily seconded by Royce headed down the northern passage after following the knight's orders on tapping the stone, passing numerous structures indicating the age of the place. Venerable roots snake their way along the passage, etching across the walls, ceiling and floor in such a way that without the crystalline growths strewn about, you could say that they were natural engravings. The passage winds and turns, going first to the right and off towards a steep left, following back towards the right again, and you see a subtle difference in the scenery.

The passage was no ordinary, natural earthway, but a transverse column of stone, naturally-hewn judging by how the environment meshed smoothly into the area, slowly becoming wider and wider since you first entered into the tunnel until it formed half the size of the chamber, still moving forward with only one way back. The ever-present root system gives mention to how easily anyone can get lost in the area, as though the passage was akin to a tube in particular, the roots made it seem more like a labyrinth at times.

[4,2,1 > 3]

Only the knight takes the time to glance back to check on everyone-sometimes grinning, sometimes whistling a somber tune. "Times like these where you appreciate the scenery, eh?"

He is answered by the general aye, until Royce trips on a root. He dives into a roll and saves his face from meeting the undignified greetings of the floor. Other than that commotion, no other feeling from the area in front of them was observed unless the miniature tremors felt every minute or so were considered, though the group generally senses a feeling of unease, echoed by the greyhound who happily trods near Royce.

"Strange. Nothing as of yet. No sight of them, nor sound of them. I'm pretty sure we'd have met a small group of them by now. Or even any of the subterranean dwellers, given this...lapse. Say, shall we set camp for the moment? Perhaps a refreshing nap would do for most of you. I'm pretty sure all the walking would do bad to those with a condition, hmm?"

At the end of the knight's words, the party stops. You find yourself in a chamber eerily similar to the first one--yet lacking the raised stone or level floor--but being divided into two portions: the area you stand on is elevated, smoothly carved out and descending forwards to a steep depression much like a cliff. Jagged rocks outline the opposite wall, while the cliff face beneath you exhibits a smoothened outline. At the bottom, as Royce sees, is a faint glimmer of blue, as if diluted in the air.

"Because if we're all ready, we could just go on ahead, down this crevice here. I've brought rope."


View your status here! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg3696731#msg3696731)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on August 25, 2013, 12:41:54 am
(Wow, uh, didn't expect to see this in the New Replies page. ^^^; Um, let's see if I remember how to play Royce. Mind if I only put in the Subquest line when I officially post an action?)

Royce squatted by the edge and looked down. "Got something alive down there. Looks beholden to the water element," he laughed, petting the grayhound at his side. "So, what do the lot of you want to do, eh? Go down and see if it's friendly, take a nap, or go fishing?" He raised his eyebrows. "Because I could do with a little snack, that's all I'm saying. What about you, boy? In the mood for a little seafood?" he asked, scratching the dog behind its ears.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: Digital Hellhound on August 25, 2013, 02:02:27 am
So it did pay off to keep bothering you about this. Lemme reread dese last pages.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: Dwarmin on August 25, 2013, 02:50:16 am
Shella shook her head, staving off weariness. It had been a long, dark night...and though she was very tired, her quest was not yet done.

...

She didn't pause to ponder the voice-assuming it came from her elemental amulet or close enough.

"Rhea? We've found a cache of magical...ritual equipment. Flasks, trinkets, figurines, a strange orb. I'd just as soon set fire to all of it and cover our escape, but do you have any idea what any of it could be?"

If asked, Shella would describe the items in more detail.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: Tiruin on August 25, 2013, 09:19:11 am
Spoiler: @DH (click to show/hide)


Previous: In which morning comes. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4533416#msg4533416) | Current: In which we follow our objective. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4534018#msg4534018) | Next: In which we make a follow-through. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4632311#msg4632311)

"Rhea? We've found a cache of magical...ritual equipment. Flasks, trinkets, figurines, a strange orb. I'd just as soon set fire to all of it and cover our escape, but do you have any idea what any of it could be?"
[5]
"Erm, I'll ask."

You look into the amulet and see Deon's ungagged face. His reply is unheard, but all the same it comes through.

"Ok, Dweonir said that his friend said that he heard that all of those were related. Precautionary measures, and study-work they acquired on these sorts of things. He also said something like 'aknowmalee', and to be careful, and that he sends his regards. Um, that's all. Is that ok?

"Oh..and if you can, could you find something that belongs to me? It's small and green, and pretty. Thanks."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Revived!
Post by: freeformschooler on August 25, 2013, 11:13:01 am
Spoiler: GM Notes. (click to show/hide)

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: Digital Hellhound on August 25, 2013, 11:36:41 am
Try PMing him? It sends an email and found me back players who had left the forums.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: Caellath on August 25, 2013, 03:32:42 pm
Eisen's legs bend slightly as he assumes a half-crouching stance, prepared to dodge and weave if needed. He glances intently at the pile of objects still, one hand tugging on the arrow positioned on his longbow's string and allowing its fingers to touch and dance around the projectile's end to keep him prepared and focused.

"All that remains is searching, I suppose." the young man says quietly, taking another look at the objects in search of both the artifact and "small, green thing" while keeping an ear out for any disturbances.

Search visually for the artifact, keep arrow notched and ready to be fired upon need.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: Dwarmin on August 25, 2013, 04:00:03 pm
Shella nodded quietly, keeping an eye on the flap of the door. She positioned herself at the corner shadow, just out of easy eyeline.

Should some fool come in unawares, he probably wouldn't be in for a nice surprise.

Action: Hide if I can, and keep on eye on the door while the others search. If someone drops in for an unfriendly visit, knock em over the head from behind!
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: Reudh on August 25, 2013, 07:58:04 pm
Waitlist

"Huh. Climbing. I always liked climbing as a youngster. I'll go first."
Kheir awaits the rope to be affixed to the wall - four arms are better than two for climbing.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: IronyOwl on August 25, 2013, 11:09:48 pm
"Fascinating..." Sal'savira said, looking at all the arcana.

Examine the upright staves. See if I can figure out why the righthand one has notches in it.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 13: A Scarlet Morning
Post by: Digital Hellhound on August 26, 2013, 09:49:12 am
The others seemed to know what they were doing. Ecidona had noticed the scrolls and couldn't imagine what she could find here. Surely the others wouldn't mind...

Examine the scrolls. If there's time, go over the figurines as well, see if I recognize the creatures they portray.
Title: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Tiruin on September 12, 2013, 07:19:39 pm
Previous: In which we follow our objective. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4534018#msg4534018) | Current: In which we make a follow-through. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4599538#msg4599538) | Next: In which reflexes occur. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4632311#msg4632311)

-Turn 14: Intentions-
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

Anti-magic Field continuing for this last turn.
Search visually for the artifact, keep arrow notched and ready to be fired upon need.
((Bold the full action next time please-if you also searched for what Rhea was asking-I rolled for it anyway - check the bottom of the turn.))
[Search: 3]
[4 vs 1+1 (???)]
Eisen feels the fading wind brush past his body as he passes the staves, keeping an arrow nocked as he checked the inside for any enemies--none were spotted, even in the shadiest of corners or in the most awkward of curves, but the feeling of doubt remained. There was something definitely wrong here.

"Nothing. No sight or sense of them. I can't even smell their scent." Eisen says, taking a glance around. "All that remains is searching, I suppose."

Action: Hide if I can, and keep on eye on the door while the others search. If someone drops in for an unfriendly visit, knock em over the head from behind!
[1]
Shella kept her back turned, keeping watch in the opposite direction as she took position near the entryway. It was conspicuous enough to be mistaken as a support, and gave her ample vision of the surroundings while denying a clear view of the inside from any onlookers. This must've been how anyone would've guarded this simple-looking area.

Her knee hits a pole, which in turn topples a spear, which tears a smooth incision in the flap, letting sunlight stream freely inside. The inner parts now seem more opague, due to a contrast of light and dark from the inside and the outside.

And from all that, no sound from the outside is heard other than a faint whistling coming and disappearing in short intervals. Any birdcalls, chirping cries, or morning song do not permeate the air--however a sneaking wariness touches the edges of her thoughts. There is something wrong in the interior of the tent.
Examine the upright staves. See if I can figure out why the righthand one has notches in it.
[5]
"Anything?"
"The staves."

Sal'savira adjusted her googles to focus the light, and peered closely at the two staves bordering the entrance from the inside. A note clicks in her mind as she exchanges looks between one and the other. The notches don't seem to be caused by any kind of sharp implement-sword, knife or axe-but seem to be seared in by an implement of fire. Seeing as the notches were made near the junction of the vine and staff, a simple conclusion appears in her mind.

"The staves are significant. Improvised wards, I think. The vine works as the source. Reminds me of the sealing wards in the Bastion, but. . .crude. Makeshift. Though these are active. They are glowing. Indicating activity.

"Active activity."
"What caused the markings?" Gurrath said.
"I cannot know. Nothing in our vicinity has the power to cause such."
"Heat a metal, and strike with the edge. Not that hard to do."
The Seeker looks down, notices that her "knuckle"knucklebones still exhibit the faint glow from before, and turns back to respond. "The scorch marks do not signify that. The edges are ill-defined. It is more of applying fire to water. There is resistance on both sides--both are changed, and mark remain of their passing."

Examine the scrolls. If there's time, go over the figurines as well, see if I recognize the creatures they portray.
[1 - lacking time]

Ecidona is the next to enter the tent. She held her cloak fast as the receding wind passes her upon entry--stooping over and grabbing most of the scrolls for inspection.

 "Interesting."
"What is?"
"These scrolls. They depict research. Notes, musings, ponderings. There are several figures and diagrams drawn, along with what I guess seem to be the corresponding details, yet they're all. . .burned. The parchment isn't destroyed, but the words and figures are just blackened out though I'm pretty sure that it may still be of use, perhaps?"
A shadow pass by, and thinking it was Eisen, she moved towards the far end of the tent, still trying to decipher the scrolls in her hands.
"Though I'm unsure if these also refer to the figures here. I can make out the common races of the world, including a lot of the other fauna, and a few things. . .only seen in stories. Like this one, a six-winged angel, or-hey, a suit of armor. Hmm, doesn't seem like any of these hold any significance but depiction."

Quote from: Gurrath Halsen
Stay guard with Shella. Keep watch on the interior and exterior.
[Banter: 1]
Back at the entrance, which measured quite a distance from the far end, Gurrath stood along Shella, on the opposite corner.
"Not what I expected this to be."
His talk was met with a raised eyebrow.
"I mean, we're pretty lucky enough to evade being spotted. We've crossed miles and pretty much infiltrated a camp with people as diverse as back in the Bastion. And even here, they're lacking security. It's all a set-up, I say. Even I am questioning to myself in my thoughts on why we're doing this. Ecidona, can you see any figure there that matches the bandits?"
Ecidona kept her eyes on the figures, shifting between them and the notes.
"There's people of varying heights, and pretty much nothing out of the ordinary. Some of the figures have multiple arms and legs--and this is just a spider. *Shoo* Oh, and now a one-winged angel, and what seems to be an arboreal...living tree? The roots seem to conform to 'legs'. Anyway, I've never seen most of these in my life, or-"
"I think I've found it."

All eyes fall upon Eisen, who is standing, stooped over the tiny opalescent orb in the center. He carries his bow at the ready, and yet on his drawing-wrist, carries a small pouch which jingles to the tune of money.

"How do you know that's what we're looking for."
Eisen gives a quizzical look. "I've tried everything else but what Ecidona is looking at, and none have reacted."
Gurrath prodded the stave nearby, "It would be strange to trap a vital point. And it would pretty much be a trial and error thing if it would work that way, but that seems like concluding there."
"It's a hypothesis."

The party feels a certain tension in the air--present in emphasis near the orb with lessening effect radiating outwards.

[A miniturn will be issued after this depending on actions given.]
Spoiler: Positioning (click to show/hide)
Characters:
Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: GM Notes. (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Tiruin on September 16, 2013, 03:37:36 pm
Previous: In which we meet a tangle. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4533416#msg4533416) | Current: In which we are readied. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4610097#msg4610097) | Next: In which disaster strikes. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5141579#msg5141579)

Meanwhile...

[Complex Sense roll: 2>1,1,1]

As the rest of you look around the cavern, the ground beneath you shakes for a few moments before returning to its calm. "Hmm, tremors. Keep looking ahead, this whole place won't collapse on us."

Royce squatted by the edge and looked down. "Got something alive down there. Looks beholden to the water element," he laughed, petting the grayhound at his side. "So, what do the lot of you want to do, eh? Go down and see if it's friendly, take a nap, or go fishing?" He raised his eyebrows. "Because I could do with a little snack, that's all I'm saying. What about you, boy? In the mood for a little seafood?" he asked, scratching the dog behind its ears.
The greyhound tilts its head, then jumps up and licks you playfully on the face. You get the feeling that it is happy with your presence and will stick to your side, now.

It barks in approval and you can see its tail swish back and forth. It seems your proposal has made quite the reaction.

"Huh. Climbing. I always liked climbing as a youngster. I'll go first."
"Good enough," the 'knight' says, clasping his hands together and creating an echo that fills the cavern as he nods in approval.

"I will not be joining you in the proceedings henceforth. I have been sent to teach you lessons--of which you have already learned one, despite the relative quiet I observe with you all. Whether it be boredom or nay, I shall never know, however your lesson was this.

"Trust." He detaches the book by his belt and throws it towards Kheir. He looks towards Aes, and hands her his torch, as well as passing around the rest of the habiliments carried to the rest.

Your inventories have been updated.

"These are what helped me in the years before, I hope it will aid you all well, here. And my friend," he says, looking at the greyhound, "take care of them. Your sense of smell will be crucial for their survival."

Without further ado, the first of you moves towards the edge as the man ties the rope on one of the stalagmites protruding from the earth--well, if considering a small patch of sturdy stone would suffice--and follows the rope down. Kheir is followed by Royce down below.

At the bottom, Royce's feet meet the cold, damp feeling of water beneath. His boots soak up the cold, and looking down, he sees the cavern floor clearly against the lighting-the water is clear and flowing farther ahead, downwards at a slope-and to his side stands Kheir.

An opening stands before them-something which you all see clearly if you choose to look through your amulets-measuring at the height of five full-grown men, and wide enough to accommodate seven, placed from head to toe--wider than as tall, and the water flows deeper, downwards into the darkness where the light of your torches cannot reach.

Kheir gestures and points at the source of water. Halfway from the steep incline, it seems that the rock itself is dampened by its presence. Water flows along the lower half of the cliffside, falling silently down to create the floor the two now stand on; an inch deep of water coats the depths beyond the cliff, and small fish swim amongst the feet of the Kheir and Royce, flickering in the torchlight. A steady trickle of them seem to be moving downstream. There is also a crab moving cutely with the flow of the water among the fish. You see it has an iridescent shell.

"Strange, I can't put this quite clearly, but I feel something's afoot."
"What may that be?"
"Too tranquil? I'm unsure. I just have this feeling of uncertainty as a whole. It has been plaguing me ever since we've come down the middle tunnel."
"You too?"

[A miniturn will happen after this based on all your actions]
Spoiler: Positioning (click to show/hide)
Characters:
Spoiler: Aes Nain ; Skyrunner (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Krikt ; Harry Baldman (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Trent Alzar ; adwarf (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Kheir ; Reudh (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on September 16, 2013, 03:47:42 pm
[SUBQUEST]

Royce takes out his sword and attempts to 'spear' a fish with it. He also attempts to capture the iridescent crab, just to have it.

"I still miss being a bear. They have such an easier time fishing," the trickster spirit lamented as he stabbed at a passing fish. "...And I wasn't kidding about being hungry..."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Dwarmin on September 16, 2013, 04:27:15 pm
Shella's axe swung in her hand impatiently.

"Get what we came for. Hurry. Somethings wrong here."

She searched her senses.

Action: Try to concentrate on the source of the 'wrongness' and figure what it is. Maybe take a careful peek outside if needed.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Reudh on September 16, 2013, 07:18:21 pm
[SUBQUEST]


Kheir walks along very cautiously, to where Royce is attempting to catch the crab.
"You miss being a bear? Are you mad, or simply strange? And how do you know those fish are safe to eat?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on September 16, 2013, 07:27:25 pm
"I don't know! That's half the fun. And about the other thing, I was a bear in the life before this one." Royce sighed, reminiscing. "That was a relaxing life. Go out, eat, go home, sleep. Make no mistake, it's far more interesting being a humanoid, but sometimes it's nice to just take a decade or two off to rest before getting back to shenanigans and hijinks. Although I always preferred monkeyshines."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Reudh on September 16, 2013, 07:36:16 pm
"Hmm. So you say you reincarnate? What a curious thing you are."

Kheir pulls out the tome and opens it, flicks to a random page and begins reading.

"Let's see of what use this scripture will be."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on September 16, 2013, 07:39:12 pm
"Sure. I'll try not to get your pages wet." Royce walked a few feet away, pursuing a different fish with his sword.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Caellath on September 16, 2013, 11:21:02 pm
"Now that this is mostly taken care of, I will concentrate on Rhea's request." Eisen says, starting to look for the small, pretty and green thing she had mentioned - maybe a colored glass marble? He can't help but devote some time wondering why exactly the tent's inside feels so eerie and wrong.

Search for the object Rhea asked for.

Edit: Leave the tent to check outside due to Ecidona's warnings.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Digital Hellhound on September 17, 2013, 12:58:11 am
((Yay! Secret messages! Strange things afoot! Poor Ecidona has been thoroughly traumatized.))

'Eisen, please get back from that thing. Get back now. I'm sensing something that's... not good,' Ecidona forces out. She blinks, looking at the circles of bloody figures. 'Also, there's, umm, there are way too many bodies and way too much blood. I'm sort of... seeing a, a, shadow world. I don't really know what's happening, but uhh... I... umm, I think we should get out of here. Now.'

Action: Confused warnings!
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Caellath on September 18, 2013, 06:29:22 pm
Eisen stops dead in his tracks and turns to face Ecidona, mildly confused by her catastrophic-sounding warnings of danger. "What do you mean? Get away from the orb? What exactly are you seeing?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Spinal_Taper on September 19, 2013, 01:44:12 am
Terys peers through the amulet at the sight below.
"I knew I picked the right job. Not a year in, and we've already seeing this sort of view..."
He rappells down next.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Digital Hellhound on September 19, 2013, 02:19:39 am
'Eisen, there is literally a greatsword on your neck,' Ecidona said, feeling panic well up within her. 'Maybe it's a symbol of some other danger or an actual physical thing but we really should move, now.'
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Caellath on September 19, 2013, 09:17:03 pm
"I still do not understand what exactly is going on, but we could head outside and see if something has changed." the young man answers, rolling his shoulders and heading outside with a brisk pace, bow still in hand.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Skyrunner on September 20, 2013, 08:34:39 am
[the quest of subs]

"So... why are we here, again?"

Aes shines the torch off the cliff, pouting at the water the light reflects on. At least she had the mind to wear boots this day.

"I was kinda spaced out."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Tiruin on September 20, 2013, 08:41:13 am
"I was kinda spaced out."
[Sense: 6 - roll done because..you missed a lot back nine months ago]

"We were about to start your training, youngling." the knight replies, standing behind you with his hands clasped behind his back. "Your friends are mostly down there-and to remind you, we're on a hunt. I guess I will take care of Krikt and your Skylarin companion here, soon."

He claps his hands once more. You then get the feeling that you aren't that much alone now.

"Do be careful."

((We pretty much Need IronyOwl here to continue.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Skyrunner on September 20, 2013, 09:27:05 am
Attempt to get down the cliff.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: IronyOwl on September 20, 2013, 08:49:36 pm
((We pretty much Need IronyOwl here to continue.))
((Oh dear.))


Sal'savira snapped to attention at Ecidona's warning.

"Then let us flee quickly. There are more than enough forces at work here to substantiate a threat like that."

Try to usher everyone out of the tent, after they've grabbed things if appropriate.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: adwarf on September 20, 2013, 09:02:07 pm
[Subquest]

Trent ensured his helmet was on securely as he approached the rope to rappel down after the others, as he gets close he intones a prayer,

"I am the bearer of the Truth, the Shield against the darkness, the Sword that shall shatter with the Return.

Bless the darkness I shall wear like a shroud, and withhold death so that we can bear witness to the Return and events to come.

By the Raven I bear see me through this endless night to the dawn Savior, if it is my path to die today so be it but if you see mercy enough to let me live then I shall continue my service."

Down the rope, we have over-sized worms to kill
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: Tiruin on September 21, 2013, 04:49:38 am
Try to usher everyone out of the tent, after they've grabbed things if appropriate.
Both turns are mostly finished and..I'm at a conundrum.

Are you entering the tent and getting some stuff or..something else?
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14a: Intentions
Post by: IronyOwl on September 21, 2013, 04:58:13 am
Try to usher everyone out of the tent, after they've grabbed things if appropriate.
Both turns are mostly finished and..I'm at a conundrum.

Are you entering the tent and getting some stuff or..something else?
((I'm already in the tent, trying to get myself and everyone else out. The "after they've grabbed some things" is so I don't drag someone off just as they're about to grab the item we're after, or something similar.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Tiruin on September 24, 2013, 05:25:14 am
Previous: In which we make a follow-through. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4599538#msg4599538) | Current: In which reflexes occur. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4632311#msg4632311) | Next: In which much stuff happens. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5141577#msg5141577)

-Turn 14: Volition-
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Initiative (click to show/hide)

Ecidona's Silence Spell has dissipated!

Action: Confused warnings!
[Make your actions clear please. I nearly missed the subtle note that you wanted to get the scrolls and figurines back there.]
[Loot: 4]
"Understand what's going on? There's a sword poised to strike you down! We're-you're-there are-"
Ecidona takes a breath before looking at Sal'savira and the rest by the warding barrier, before looking back at Eisen. Yet before she could act, she winces as she senses her spell waning. The faint traces visible only in her eyes would soon take effect on the rest.

Action: Try to concentrate on the source of the 'wrongness' and figure what it is. Maybe take a careful peek outside if needed.
[Detect: 6 vs 2 = Enemy Spotted!]
[Intercept due to initiative? 2 vs 2 | 6 vs 4+1: Heck yes]
At Ecidona's warnings, and on her intuitive feelings, Shella takes a peek out-before being tapped on the shoulder by Gurrath.

"I'll check outside." he says before exiting the tent. The Orc turned about and checked the area as Sal'savira began crossing through the warding barrier, and kept her sights on for any discrepancies in the air -as Ecidona was keen to mention- as it felt mostly like riddles or metaphors.

She squinted, seeing a linear shift soon turning into a humanoid outline moving subtly within the interior and felt the handle of her axe meet her hands. Before her eyes, the scene was changing.

"Eisen-"

Grab the orb and leave the tent to check outside due to Ecidona's warnings.
[PS: You should really edit in your action here other than sending the exact action on IRC :P
Glad to have caught you on that last moment PM.]
Spoiler: Also (click to show/hide)
[Craftiness: 6]
[General action: 1]

"-move! Now!"
[Eisen Dodge: 6+2{Fleeing} vs 1+1+3 {Telegraphed Ambush} - Success]

The Foxfolk took two steps from his position, until he noticed the same thing as the others. Ecidona's spell, woven as it was around them and their vicinity, could be seen visually receding. From Gurrath's location, it travels quickly past Shella and Sal'savira then. . .horror.

The faint outline of the silence spell passes the Malkaven, and unveils a grisly scene as it returns back towards its owner and vanishes.

~~~

First, was the stench of death-the odor of burnt flesh and blood.

Second, was their owners. Six, seven, eight or nine; in general, several bodies were huddled and lying on the ground in a concentric pattern around the orb surrounding the Foxfolk. Deep gashes decorated their bodies and blood pooled around them, with most of the cuts showing scorch marks and clotted blood. None of them moved, and whatever semblance of life was on them could not be seen.

Third, was the threat. The sword, poised above Eisen's head. It was carried by a figure covered fully in plated armor with a visor covering its face. With the silencing shroud gone, the figure takes on a detailed yet translucent human appearance--much like the shine of clustering dust in sunlight--towering at about seven feet in height.

In the second that passed, it seemed frozen. The greatsword which Ecidona spoke of was held in both hands, shimmering in a faint yellow hue. And in the next second, it began to move--to resume its motion, as if it paused or slowed.

Yet, they were all ready. On reflex, Eisen dove to the side as the sword crashed into the brazier, leaving a huge dent in the metal. The Foxfolk felt heat pass by him as he followed up into a sideways roll and unleashed his shot back at the figure. The arrow strikes true, but glances off the poleyn and embeds itself in the far end of the tent after spinning once-breaking two bottled flasks on the rack beside Ecidona, who notes a hissing sound as it is exposed to air.

The blade, however, catches Eisen's cloak, and he finds himself pinned due to its fastening. Right before him, the cloth shrivels and curls, emitting the foul odor of burning fabric.

Try to usher everyone out of the tent, after they've grabbed things if appropriate.
[Craftiness/Improvisation: 6]
[Flee: 5+2 vs 6+1 | 2+2 vs 3+1 | 6+2 vs 1+1: Success!]

"Grab the orb!" Shella cried as she interceded, parrying its strike with her axe as the figure moves to advance. Sal'savira took hold of the situation, before helping Eisen up as Shella handles the figure.

She takes hold of the Orb, and noticing its fabric, decides to wrap it up in the silk underneath it.

"Go!"

[???: 6+1 vs 1 | 6+6 vs 1 ; Critical!]
[> Weapon Sunder: 2+2 vs 3]
[Shella {Flee}: 3+2 vs 3+1: Success]

At the order of the Seeker, Ecidona is the first to dart through the entryway, followed by Eisen, and soon after accompanied by Sal'savira herself, but not before she glances at her ally.

"Shella!"

The Orc was caught in battle-squaring off against an opponent with full advantage in the area in all but distance--her axe outmatched the space needed to easily swing the greatsword, and blow after blow was countered by a feint and a lunge, only to end as the shady figure uses its fist. It connects with Shella's armor, hitting her in the side and leaving her open to attack-it strikes quickly with its sword, and is met by reflexes only a trained warrior can match. It makes contact with the axe, changing the angle of the strike to glance off the weapon, but in turn cleaving right through the upper half, leaving only a broken splinter remaining and putting the orc off balance.

This was when Sal'savira made her move. She quickly took hold of her friend, and shoved her through the warding area, quickly following in turn after weaving past a strike, using a body as a distraction, and dodging a quick call to the leg.

As the two women scramble for the entryway, they hear no pursuit of the figure-and on curiosity, look back. It is standing rather stoically at the entryway, with sword clasped in both hands, staring right back at them. The wards marking the perimeter of the tent interior glow bright azure as the inside is shrouded in their glow.




Quote from: Gurrath
Check outside for any sign of hostility/Is Rhea ok?
[Search: 2]

It was a beautiful morning. The silence in the air kept Gurrath reminiscing of the times gone by, when he was back in the mercenary business. Living on the road, and getting paid for various activities; all of which encouraged the use of his spear. Those times were good times.

Until he sees Rhea waving at him by the hilltop, and hears the faint sound of a hunting horn being blown in the far distance. He sees her hand clasp around his amulet, and her mouth voice silent sayings before shaking it again and repeating the motions. Soon enough, she gives up and clasps her hands around her mouth and tries to shout something while pointing energetically at the tent.

Sadly, due to the distance and the early morning air, it is vague and indistinguishable, yet punctuated by another sound-the noise of Eisen and Ecidona running out of the tent from behind, followed by Sal'savira and Shella.

"Nothing wrong out here-though Rhea seems distraught. What happened?"

Spoiler: Positioning (click to show/hide)
Characters:
Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Tiruin on September 24, 2013, 05:27:52 am
[This space for waitlister turn. I am busy. >_<]
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Dwarmin on September 24, 2013, 06:44:38 am
Shella grunted. Some sort of warded defender, or a summoned demon-too many advantages in one place to overcome. She momentarily gave though to firing her bow at it, but what if could step out of the boundary? No point. They had the Orb...and, their mission was nearly complete. Well, their mission was.

She abruptly turned away from the group, and spoke back to them. She nodded to Eisen.

"And, It's time we part ways. I've honored my oath and lead you here, but I've got some business to attend to otherwise. I suggest you all escape while you can-if I can catch up I might, but don't count on it. Eisen can explain, but for now it's best left to the winds. Farewell...my friends."

With that, she began stalking toward the merchants tent, bow held grimly in her hands. She would find the merchant-make him talk. He would talk.

It was Shella's shot that put him down. 600 meters right through the eye. The merchant who had intended to enslave her clan (it seemed merchants were the bane of her life) dropped like a sack of meal-and the momentum shifted. His band of cutthroats faltered. Clan Gavuatu rallied, charging with vicious warcries. Victory...but, at the cost of almost three quarters of their clans number. They would never recover. Most of them would either find work in the cities, or splinter off to their parent tribes, begging bread from prouder tables...

Even now, she doesn't know why Ephia betrayed them that night. Cut the throats of the nightwatch herself. Let them into the walls-even took part in the fight herself, slaughtering her stunned brothers and sisters-Shella had traded blades and bowshot with her, aiming to kill the traitor, but she was fast...and knew when to run away from a losing battle. Ephia had been a fellow hunter- a cunning warrior-and something of Shella's rival. They weren't friends, but they weren't enemies. She mostly kept to herself. Was it a need for money? Revenge? Something so base, to ruin so much that had been good and wholesome? Why did she kill her clanmates?

In the end, Shella decides she doesn't care about why...only about how she's going to find her...and make her pay.

But, there's another problem.

A few of the bandits, more quick thinking than the others, make off with a number of prisoners before the battle ends. Among those taken is Tagga. Her sister. She loses track of them in the chaos, and though they certainly talk when she finds them, but the trail goes cold.

Dead cold.

...

Shella remembers the pain of the oath-marks branded upon her tusks. It was done with the Gods fire, they said-seared onto your soul. It was unbelievably agonizing-many Orcs died during the ceremony, their will proven too weak to uphold the task they would take upon themselves.

Shella did it twice.

An oath to save her sister, no matter the cost. And an Oath to kill the traitor. Her life has been subsumed in vengeance ever since.


Action: Shella goes to track down the High Elf Merchant in camp with knowledge of her sisters whereabouts. Try not to alert anyone not already alerted.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Tiruin on September 25, 2013, 11:13:33 pm
"And, It's time we part ways. I've honored my oath and lead you here, but I've got some business to attend to otherwise. I suggest you all escape while you can-if I can catch up I might, but don't count on it. Eisen can explain, but for now it's best left to the winds. Farewell...my friends."
((Will be updating later on @subquest))

"Woah, woah, hold on." Gurrath said, "You're turning away this opportunity to. . .leave? In the heart of a bandit camp? Who I've to mention were hostile to us if it were not for our disguises and your cunning? What's so important that someone else has to explain it for you, eh? Don't leave us just yet."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Dwarmin on September 25, 2013, 11:32:40 pm
Shella knows she shouldn't, but she slows a half step and talks back to him quietly.

"...I'm looking for someone important to me-my sister. She was taken from me many years ago. A man in this camp has information I need to find her. This was the real reason I came here-I've been looking for a long time, and I can't stop for anything-or anyone.

You must now, I've known he was here, working with these people for awhile now. I knew when they were planning the heist. I did what I had to do to make sure I was assigned to this job and our group. I needed help getting close to the camp-and, we've accomplished our mutual goals. So, I hope you'll understand why I have to do this."

She continues forward.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Caellath on September 26, 2013, 08:24:34 am
Eisen is left momentarily surprised with the surge of activity, turning back to stare at the tent they just left and at the figure. "Well, I didn't expect that. We were attacked by something animated or created by magical means, apparently." he answers Gurrath, noticing both that Shella wants to break off and go on her own way and that Rhea seems to be shouting something. "...I'll go see what exactly is the matter."

Move to Rhea to check what exactly is the message she wants to give.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Digital Hellhound on September 27, 2013, 08:32:53 am
'Is no-one interested on why this thing is here? No worries about all these bodies? Nothing?' Ecidona says, mostly to herself. She stares at the others for a moment and calls up the silence within her, forcing herself to calm down. What an adventure this was.

Follow Eisen to Rhea, fire up the ol' Silence field if there's any danger of magical attack.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Caellath on September 27, 2013, 10:18:49 am
"I have no idea what happened myself." Eisen answers, glancing at Ecidona. "At the same time, I think this is a time for action rather than contemplation."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Tiruin on September 30, 2013, 12:51:36 am
"...I'm looking for someone important to me-my sister. She was taken from me many years ago. A man in this camp has information I need to find her. This was the real reason I came here-I've been looking for a long time, and I can't stop for anything-or anyone.

You must now, I've known he was here, working with these people for awhile now. I knew when they were planning the heist. I did what I had to do to make sure I was assigned to this job and our group. I needed help getting close to the camp-and, we've accomplished our mutual goals. So, I hope you'll understand why I have to do this."

Gurrath bit his lip.

"Alright, nothing intended, Shella, but aren't you overreacting a bit there? We were chosen at random for this, out of the many others as you saw, and there may be tens- hundreds even, of traders out there who use free trade regardless of moral inclinations. As a mercenary, I've seen them working everywhere. You need leads on this!"

He fumbles with his spear as he glances towards the tent they just exited.

"I'm all in for helping you and your sister, and I've no qualms of looting anything given the...atmosphere in this area, but you can't jump to conclusions like that. Ok, sure, we're all connected by groups and all, but if that man was here-erm.

"Shouldn't this place be more populated given the presence of a slave merchant?"

Check where Shella is going and watch for anyone else that isn't us, and the women.
[Paraphrasing this from the actions given and picked the one that isn't a free action]
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: IronyOwl on September 30, 2013, 07:42:13 am
Sal'savira tilted her head inquisitively at the leaving orc.

"Curious. I wonder if she'll find what she seeks."

She then turned back to Ecidona.

"Yes, very much so. The guardian I understand, at least a little; the bodies I wonder at. A visage of what's to come, perhaps? Or possibly of whence the guardian came?

Still, I suspect we should return with the orb. Or perhaps," she glanced back at Shella, "follow that one and assist with... unsavory things."

Just sort of follow the group.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 14b: Volition
Post by: Dwarmin on October 01, 2013, 11:29:14 am
"It's my life to know, Gurrath. Either he's here, or he was-I can only work on the information I was given."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn X: Comeback
Post by: Tiruin on November 14, 2013, 08:54:38 pm
Happy 13th Month Anniversary!
In which a year and a month of time is reworded.

   It’s been a year and a month from the start of this RTD, and through all out I could hardly believe how far we’ve gone. This doesn’t extend only in in-game matters, but on how…dedicated the players are. I’ve been willing to give up writing or hosting this story many, many times in the past yet this was assuaged by the constant support by most of you—via PM or IRC no less—that kept me going (9 months break! That’s longer than enough to create an 80 page buffer for a webcomic!)
   Sure, RL kicks in, yet in the past until now I’ve learned a lot to continue this, and realized where my interests were. Mistakes have been made, mostly off-thread, but currently things have been looking up and better.
   Writing these things are like a whole new world for me, having had little experience in this field of literature, and though quite fun I’d be proud to say that in the least-the concept that I’ve brought here still captures the interest of most of you all.

   Turn update scheduled soon along with player PM and appropriate material. Thanks for continuing this with me despite the giant gaping error that..admittedly, most things I've had, and probably even others fall into. Time, and continuity. I will not let this occur again.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Dawn of a New Year | This ain't dead!
Post by: Tiruin on January 01, 2014, 12:17:12 am
[Yeah let's make this extra post-info space :)]
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on April 01, 2014, 03:15:03 am
I heard from a little birdy that this might be starting again? :3
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Tiruin on April 01, 2014, 03:16:42 am
Spoiler: @^ (click to show/hide)


Previous: In which reflexes occur. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4632311#msg4632311) | Current: In which much stuff happens. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5141577#msg5141577) | Next: 

-Turn 15: Recovery-
Spoiler: Standing Modifiers (click to show/hide)

Follow Eisen to Rhea, fire up the ol' Silence field if there's any danger of magical attack. {3}
Move to Rhea to check what exactly is the message she wants to give. [-]
Just sort of follow the group. [1]
[I've set up a decision maker with the 1d6. It goes: 1-3 first choice; 4-6 second choice. You got a 1]
With Eisen's last word, the foxfolk takes the lead and hops over the perimeter rocks, careful to avoid the entrances which Shella described earlier. Ecidona and Sal'savira follow with, with the latter feeling her energies drained-though still able to sustain the same field for about a couple of minutes or so later on, if need be. The Malkaven glances back at the tent and feels nothing in the air-hears no breach of passage, or any other attempt to escape. It seems that whatever attacked them in there is content to stay, in there.

The three of you reach Rhea, and find that she has ungagged the other bandits: all four of them, including the one who had collapsed earlier, are now huddled under a tree trunk-staring blankly back at you with grim expressions on their faces. She points in the direction where you have all come from, and goes over to fetch the horses, pressing a hand to her chest and covering her mouth as she stifles a cough.

You hear the hunting horn being blown again and again and turn to a noise nearby: Syra appears from the nearby thicket, nearly out of breath, "Morning has come. I've tried to stall them as best as I can. They'll be coming."

Judging the distance between the boundary and your current location, as well as local knowledge on terrain and trust on Syra's word, you have at most 2 turns to evacuate the area, if you so choose. You have a wary feeling about, and notice everyone else gathered, watching you.

Action: Shella goes to track down the High Elf Merchant in camp with knowledge of her sisters whereabouts. Try not to alert anyone not already alerted. [6]
Check where Shella is going and watch for anyone else that isn't us, and the women. [2] [Banter: 4]
[Paraphrasing this from the actions given and picked the one that isn't a free action]
Shella moves over to the cream-hued tent seen from her earlier scouting, which was mostly indistinct to a casual eye other then the different shades of cream used to decorate it and, readying her slurbow, rips open the flap just as Gurrath pokes his spear inside.
[Shifting to second-person perspective as Gurrath sees just as much as you]
You aim down the sight and see nobody in the general entrance who was ready to flee or attack any intruder, but a banner hanging to the far end of the tent of a simple, gilded crown circumscribed by a palatinate colored circle, frayed at the edges and ripped in the middle but altogether patched and well-worn. "Ubi bene ibi patria" are the words inscribed under the symbol. Moving forward and inside, you notice the complete absence of life or any sort of hostility towards your presence.

Stepping aside the entrance cover, you see the entirety of the room:

A few spears - pinions of different color and shafts of differing earthen shades - and ornaments stand on the left side, coupled with what seems to be an ornate tube pointing upwards and leaning against a rack, with designs of a prone dragon wrapping and entwining from the lower end that the upper end takes on its mouth. You notice a handle jutting out from the middle, and infer that as a shield, it would work quite well as a quarterstaff, though a fair bit long. A tiny stylized symbol of a bear is seen on the upper side of the tube.

A rectangular box lies in front - functioning as an improvised table - displays a set of wine bottles and empty flasks, as well as a silver set of cutlery and folded paper, as well as a map which looks much like Syra's map you've seen earlier, only with lacking blood and dirt covers the rest of the area away from the utensils.

To your right is a rolled up mat alongside a chest , with what appears to be a strong, grey lock holding the opening in place. Two handles rest on the lateral areas of the container, built for heavy carrying. There appears to be a lettering system inscribed on the handle, trailing around and behind the lid and over the outline in writing very familiar--but not exact to orcish texts. You recall a brief note in regard to the language systems of the different races in the world having common parallels, and remember the Dwarves and their script, though this could easily be mistaken for any shift in form or structuring.

"Eh? Look here," Gurrath says, handing over a note as you turn about, "'Return in the morning, rations and repairs are south' it says. Also that banner--strange to see the Aurelian Crown operate in such a remote place. Well, wherever we are anyway.

"I wonder if there are any other clues here: inventory, destination list...valuables, perhaps? Fancy place for a merchant, I do say. Your information seems really spot-on if this is the place."


Characters:
Spoiler: Sal'savira; IronyOwl (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Gurrath Halsen; Ochita (click to show/hide)


Spoiler: GM Notes (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Tiruin on April 01, 2014, 03:17:22 am
Previous: In which we are readied. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg4610097#msg4610097) | Current: In which disaster strikes. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5141579#msg5141579) | Next: In which we find some respite... (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5217298#msg5217298)

Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)

Meanwhile...

"Aes! Watch yourself," Trent said after finishing his prayer, watching over the others, "Follow Terys and carry the rope around your body, through the legs and move down sideways."
"Like this?"
"It'll hurt, yes, but you don't worry. Don't pay mind to the gravity, use your hands and be aware, I'll lead and spot."
. . .
"The kids are having fun, Kheir. What did you find?" Royce said from down below, staring at the crab as he held his sword to poke it. "Good work! Slow steps at first, just watch me and not the ground! You're just nervous! Relax!"
"A short passage on the methodology of the Arts. 'Ars Essentia' as a footnote, nothing much that we don't know." Kheir replied, flipping a page. "Though the next page doesn't connect. It's a fragment describing a culture of a people. Honor, values and such-I think this book is protected by some kind of ward or spell. Faint lettering on the corners, and pretty much indistinguishable lines for a whole other page. Followed by the same amalgam of virtues on another page. I figure an aenigma spell. And now a repeat of what I read earlier, for some reason. You?" "I'm not nervous. This is quite fun-it's just...n-nevermind."
"I found treasure. An argent diamond crab. I'm sure of this." Royce said, careful to lift his boots as the fish swam around and under the two people, feeling every touch of the cold water soak his feet as he angled the tip of his sword at the crab, "And here I thought these things were extinct by the age of the arts. Now c'mon and watch this. It seems to be useless in the water, just standing there as the fish go about, but watch its claw. "Alright, nice and easy-" It spreads it out first, then BAM. Shuts it as fast as you can blink, getting all the fish nearby to scatter and drop a few where they are. Now let's test it..." "-...This is not good."

The Trickster slowly bends down on his knees, holding his torch to the side as he angles the sword, seeing the crab cock its claw and strikes--at the same time the crab snaps it shut--getting the edge right under its belly and flipping it out of the water as a loud cracking noise comes from its location, sending a nearby fish flying along with it, and into Kheir's book.

"Hah! Got i-""Rockfall!"

The noise is softened by a much greater force, which booms from behind you all, followed by a strong tremor all around them--and for Kheir and Royce, can only turn to see Terys and Trent catch Aes as she falls onto them, with only seconds to spare until the collateral environment follows.

Miniturn: You only have seconds to act as your action.


This is purely for posterity, and not to be viewed by the people. ;P


Spoiler: Positioning (click to show/hide)

Characters:
Spoiler: Aes Nain ; Skyrunner (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Trent Alzar ; adwarf (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Kheir ; Reudh (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Spinal_Taper on April 11, 2014, 02:50:36 am
Subquest
"Oh nononononono..."
Terys broke out running as soon as Aes hit his arms. When those rocks landed, he did not want to be anywhere near, and running, as usual, seemed to be the most direct route out of their way.
Run for safety, carry Aes.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on April 11, 2014, 07:06:16 am
"Got it. And now it's time to skedaddle." Holding his prize crab triumphantly, Royce follows Terys in his run for safety. "And another thing I miss about being a bear right about now - four legs are a lot faster than two!" Death wasn't much of a deterrent for Royce, but he wanted to be part of this quest and see what happened. He didn't want to spend the next few years as a toddler again, at the very least. Not when this incarnation had at least four more good decades in it and interesting prospects ahead of it.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Digital Hellhound on April 11, 2014, 07:30:15 am
Well, what on Earth, Tir? I just asked yesterday if you planned to restart this game and now I see that you've done so ages ago! It's a happy surprise, but jeez.

I'll have to reread stuff before I can figure out my action, unless someone has a recap at hand.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Tiruin on April 11, 2014, 08:27:14 am
I think I said yes to that...I think.
Though I remember it wasn't direct.
Oops! :x
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Reudh on April 11, 2014, 09:38:07 am
"Rocks. Brilliant."

Flee, following to where Terys is.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Caellath on April 11, 2014, 05:56:54 pm
"We should leave. And do so now. Call anyone who could end up being left behind." Eisen says as he quickly leaps to his horse's saddle, satisfied with once again being in his home field - riding.

The foxfolk pulls his bow out and notches an arrow. "How many of them coming our way and how many of them are close to us? Are they coming in mass or could we pick them off in case it's needed?" he also asks Syra, trying to figure out whether he'd be able to pin their foes for a few more seconds in case their escape is delayed for some reason.

Round out the rest of the group, finish any necessary unfinished business and generally prepare to escape the camp already.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 9: An Arrow's Point
Post by: Tiruin on April 11, 2014, 11:20:20 pm
"How many of them coming our way and how many of them are close to us? Are they coming in mass or could we pick them off in case it's needed?"

[Ask]
Syra takes a few moments before responding, gathering her breath, "I...I am unsure how many would decide to return, possibly Ursa and the rest as its their shift. Mounted, most likely-ah...possibly, twice your group? Unsure if they're close but they're all moving together. . But if you really wanted to, you could just tell them yourselves. I have no idea if they're coming for mass but I guess you could bless them? Deon looks a lot better.

"Though if you're going to fight, you'd better do it from high ground, or with long spears. Struthors are unkind in a straight up charge."


She looks around uneasily, with hints of worry apparent on her face, "Is Rhea alright? Did you heal her too?"


Edit: I do like how quoting you copies the title you...probably quoted that post from. :P
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams: Quoting A Post Also Quotes The Subject
Post by: Caellath on April 11, 2014, 11:26:58 pm
"What, bless who, how and why?" Eisen's face quickly changes into a confused frown as Syra spouts a string of words he's unable to understand the meaning of. "And I'm not a healer of any kind. I can't heal Rhea, and I'm not sure any of my companions can. Is she wounded?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Tiruin on April 11, 2014, 11:33:21 pm
"Give me a moment so I can get what you said...Didn't you say something about them coming for mass?" Syra said, straightening out the creases in her sleeves, "And, I guess she's probably wounded. She's been coughing as of late and, well, has been feeling weak as far as I can tell. She wouldn't say much about it."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Digital Hellhound on April 12, 2014, 06:00:49 am
'I will see to Rhea when we are safe,' Ecidona said, heading for her horse. 'I'm no healer, but I may be able to tell what is wrong with her. There were books in the Repository, with, uh, very detailed illustrations.'

Not that she really remembered any of them, but it wouldn't hurt to calm her. She looked to Eisen, who seemed to know what he was doing. She kept her voice low, not wanting for all to hear. 'What do you intend with these people? We have the Orb - what else are we expected to do?'
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: adwarf on April 13, 2014, 04:06:51 pm
Subquest
"This is just bloody great, all we needed to make this that much better was a cliff face collapsing on us!"

Trent yelled as he turned and began sprinting down the tunnel.

Run away from the collapsing cliff face thing, really really quickly.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Skyrunner on April 15, 2014, 07:59:56 am
I think I'm subquest
The last few moments were very confusing. She was going down the cliff, cautious but not very concerned, when suddenly rocks everywhere and tumbling and the feel of changing gravity and a sudden shock--

It's no wonder that she blacks out.


It's not too long before she returns, though. She lets herself be carried, silently swearing at the insidious rubble cliff. "Thank you," she manages, to Trent and Terys
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Tiruin on April 23, 2014, 11:01:14 pm
*boop!*
Update for subquesters later.
Caellath: (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/Themes/darkling/images/bbc/quote.gif)DigitalHellhound wants to talk to you.
IronyOwl:(http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/Themes/darkling/images/bbc/url.gif) We miss you! Please message soon. :)
Dwarmin:(http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/Themes/darkling/images/bbc/spoiler.gif) Hope your net stabilizes soon and sorry that you're too busy due to library net D:

...
Ochita: Glad to have you back, buddy. :)) Will be sending the relevant information soon. Apologies for delays. RL hasn't worked out well lately.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Tiruin on April 25, 2014, 12:22:48 am
Do note: I can't go on with the main quest if I'm missing some players ;D
Nobody's holding up the turn, people are busy :)




Previous: In which disaster strikes. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5141579#msg5141579) | Current: In which we find some respite... (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5217298#msg5217298) | Next: In which we face choices (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5709529#msg5709529)

Spoiler: Actions (click to show/hide)

Meanwhile...

[Environmental Response: 3,5,3]

"Rocks fall, everyone dies."

The adage which spelunkers and explorers hold dear to their hearts as they traverse the world and its hidden bounties echoes now in the cavern as if spoken by the rocks themselves; wherever there is earth, there is gravity. Wherever there is gravity, there may be accidents.

Seeing the oncoming danger, everyone below and their dog scramble for safety--though the environment impedes them. Footfalls splash around in the leg-high water, and the forces in the area prove too strong to allow any escape deeper within the passage.

Rocks fall, and yet there is life.

The land calms its uproar, and then there is silence, broken only by movement by your own. Aes is the first to stir, caught on the ground and nearly pinned by a boulder, she glances around.

Trent, Kheir and Royce are nearby, slumped or prone on the floor, having nearly escaped the rubble though not without any wounds, and over her was Terys, shielding her body and right against the boulder that would've crushed them, if not for the collateral damage that was done to itself, that is. What remained of the cliff face is unknown, but its remnants block any easy passage upwards. The faint light of the bio-luminescence from above streams through tiny crevices in the crevasse, and your torches only shine a way forward, into the darkness which now welcomes you with open hand.

Though you notice something-the flow of water still drips from above, flowing towards the site of impact. Its force has left a sizeable break in the earth that instead of the water pooling and flowing into where you planned to go, it flows back and downwards to where the rocks have landed.

And it continues flowing, as if whatever crater the rocks created couldn't be filled by how much water streams in.

Spoiler: Positioning (click to show/hide)

Aes examines her wounds, and finds herself unscathed. Trent, Royce and Kheir would find only light scratches and perhaps bruises on their body--Terys, however, would have a bad ache in his shoulder and a sharp pain in his side.

It seems the rocks have done much damage, though not enough to kill anyone.

The greyhound nudges Royce on his face before whimpering a bit-having escaped any damage due to chasing fish around.

Characters:
Spoiler: Aes Nain ; Skyrunner (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Trent Alzar ; adwarf (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Kheir ; Reudh (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on April 25, 2014, 06:03:52 am
Royce groaned and grabbed the argent crab circling around his head. "I probably saved your life just now, least you can do is stick around you ungrateful crustacean," he muttered as he picked it up and got to his knees. "What are you doing glowing anyway, little buddy? Excited? I can agree. I've been in collapsing mineshafts before. Why, one time I was a dwarf and I worked for several years to hollow out part of a cave just so I could drop it and see what happened." Royce stowed the crab away for later reference and pet the dog.

"And you're a good boy, too. Smart one. That's why you're still alive." He scratched the mutt behind the ears and finally got to his feet, looking around. "You guys still alive, or am I the only one that made it out of that mess?"

Retrieve crab, talk to peeps, look around to see if there are any routes of egress.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: adwarf on April 25, 2014, 08:17:00 am
"I'm alive as far as I can tell, don't see no endless hell for failing my duty so chances are everyone else here is alive as well, not to mention no proper dwarf is going to get killed by a cliff face like that collapsing."

Trent replied as he stalked forward a little ways examining the area they were in, it was a far cry from Shadewall that was for sure, but it felt nice to be back underground once again. Trent took a while to take in the atmosphere as he looked for anything of note.

Search the area for anything of note.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Tiruin on April 25, 2014, 11:19:30 pm
And on this note I'd like to really thank those who send those PMs of keeping on. Thanks for standing with me in these...two years.
Also, remember that I am open to criticisms, pointers, or other suggestions. I really wish to make this RTD the best as possible for you guys and girls that I can, so don't hesitate to suggest anything!

...Two years, and we're still in Chapter one. Mm. One teensy part of a whole. If anyone needs any in-game information about the world, please do talk [preferably PM] about it and I will say what your characters know about the matter at hand.

-Tiruin
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: IronyOwl on April 26, 2014, 03:56:07 am
((Whoops.))

"Yes, leaving now."

Flee with the group!
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Spinal_Taper on April 28, 2014, 02:04:41 am
"Yeah, no problem. As long as I don't have to do it again." Terys says to Aes. Then, when things calm down, he takes a seat on the cave floor. He leans backwards, hoping to stretch the pain in his side and shoulder out of his body. When Trent calls out, he yells back to him."We're fine over here, too, spirit guy. Just a little sore, that's it. Some light would be nice though. I got a torch, if someone else has something to light it."

After that, he flops onto the ground and closes his eyes.
"Huh! And I thought this was meant to be easy for us. I mean, barely a day into this, and I'm already stuck down in some damn cave."His eyes shoot open.
"Aggghhh. A caaaaaave.", he says, a whiny tone in his voice.

Pace.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on April 28, 2014, 02:19:47 am
"Can't say I do, elf buddy," Royce responded. "So... what d'you suppose we should do now? We probably can't go back the way we came. Nothing wrong with some spelunking, anyway. Just have to get back in that dwarf mindset." Royce slapped his cheeks, then shook the hand that hit the metal plate covering part of his face. "...Forgot about that thing. Anyway. I got a glowing crab for light, so I'm good." The trickster looked at the glowing argent crab again.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Reudh on April 28, 2014, 10:06:50 am
"I am fine, if a little shaken. The earth did not do this, I think. I hope."

Assist the search for anything useful.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery
Post by: Caellath on April 28, 2014, 12:19:33 pm
((Thought I had posted a response.))

'What do you intend with these people? We have the Orb - what else are we expected to do?'

"We have what was asked of us so we return. As for Rhea and Syra," Eisen motions to the girls. "we should take them with us. Better than leaving them to the bandits."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: Skyrunner on May 06, 2014, 03:28:33 am
"I don't think glowing bugs count as light," said Aes. "Let me try... lighting this--" Aes attempts to set fire to the torch. Preferably the head of the torch. Using magic, because Aes never learned how to use mundane fire-setting tools like flint and steel or even matches. The cost to her body for such minor spells wasn't much of a deterrence to her, anyways.


After that fails or not, Aes picked up the rope. Waste not want not and all that.


Talking to Terys, she said "What's wrong with a cave? It's just a cave. There was a rockslide, but we're unscathed and I think there's still going to be a way out." She brushed her hair off with one hand as she said that, in hopes of removing the dust that lodged itself.


Random tidbits:

Aes's necklace is not one-of-its kind. There are most likely similar necklaces somewhere in the world, but one for each element. Because the necklace is not a major artifact in any way — all Aes thinks it does is very slightly make the cost of magic less, especially for Dark element — Aes has not found any records of similar necklaces. For some unknowable reason Aes has a mild wish to track down other necklaces and take them for her own. Maybe she wants to because combining the slightly larger element trinkets from each necklace would be a useful tool, or maybe it's just her Fey blood speaking to her. ooh shiny!


Spoiler: notes (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: Digital Hellhound on May 06, 2014, 07:37:46 am
'Very well,' Ecidona said, bowing her head slightly. She gave Rhea her best attempt at a confident smile as she approached them.

'We will leave. Now. I will watch over Rhea while we ride, you have my word,' she said to Syra.

Offer to take Rhea on my horse to see if I can tell anything about what's wrong with her. Unless the others have any last-minute things to do, get the hell out with the Orb and the girls.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: adwarf on May 06, 2014, 08:36:00 am
Subquest
Trent laughed as the elfish fellow Terys freaked out about this shadow of a cave they were in, he'd found far worse caves in the north, and truly horrifying ones beneath Shadewall where the a few remnants of those the Savior had drove back still remained. He spoke over his shoulder as he continued his search,

"If this little cubby hole of a cave frightens you then I'd love to see how you'd react to the northern mountain-homes which were little more then a bunch of caves connected by shoddy tunnels. Of course there are places far worse than that, but I wish those places on none, but the Shadowguard ..."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on May 06, 2014, 08:45:28 am
"Oooh! Oooooh! Didja ever hear those horrors of the deep lurking and cackling through the stone?" Royce asked, turning to Trent. "And didja ever mine through the walls and let a few out for a laugh?" It was obvious from his tone of voice and excitement that he had, in fact, done that at some point in his long, long lifespan.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: adwarf on May 06, 2014, 09:00:50 am
"Oooh! Oooooh! Didja ever hear those horrors of the deep lurking and cackling through the stone?" Royce asked, turning to Trent. "And didja ever mine through the walls and let a few out for a laugh?" It was obvious from his tone of voice and excitement that he had, in fact, done that at some point in his long, long lifespan.

The smile slipped from Trent's face at the question and he stopped moving for a moment, he hadn't expected that question really and the memories it brought back were painful ones, but he quickly regained his composure hoping no one noticed the pause.

"I've seen, and fought more of them than any mortal being has a right to endure, but they don't cackle, they don't laugh or give you the courtesy of a warning before they attack you. The first you'll hear of them is the deep thrum of bowstrings being released followed by screams as their arrows fine weak spots in the armor and their barbed and poisoned points dig into the flesh, that is probably the best way to die. After the arrows come the monsters, giant humanoid insects with claws and talons that can cut through iron, massive dog-like beasts with no-eyes and fur  that seemed harder than steel, and much much more.

As for the mining part, I'm a Shadowguard, we don't mine or craft or carve, we are priests, prophets, and warriors whose sole purpose is to teach of the Shadow Return and then to be there when it comes. To steep the caverns red in our blood in the name of Ezekiel so that the dwarven race might live in their mountain-homes a little longer."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on May 06, 2014, 09:27:24 am
"Haha. Maybe they don't, then. It's been a long, long time since I've encountered one. My memory isn't good enough to be that clear." Royce laughed and continued to play with his argent crab. "I guess I've never been one of your dwarves, 'cause I've never heard of Ezekiel or any of this Shadowguard stuff. Just goes to show you can exist across several ages and still not see all the world has to offer. Good thing too or I would've gone crazy a long time ago. Then again maybe I already have! Hard to say, really."

The trickster had a good chuckle at his fate and turned back to Trent. "So what's this Shadow Return?" He figured they might as well talk while they were stuck together. No need to be antisocial; he could multitask after all.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: adwarf on May 06, 2014, 10:37:46 am
"The Shadow Return is what Ezekiel called the event that would come to pass when those horrors he drove into the depths come to take their revenge on the dwarven race for their actions, and his. It is said that when it comes the full force of those horrors will descend upon the dwarven realms, the mountain-homes will burn and the Shadowguard will be the last to stand against them before Ezekiel's tomb, the same site where they were driven away the first time.

Of course some of the Shadowguard believe that the prophecy will come to pass, but we will fail in our duty for even though Ezekiel managed it he still sacrificed his life to accomplish it, what can we do in the shadow of such a great hero. In the end it doesn't really matter, whether most of us die or all of us die it will come to pass, and we'll still be there dying in the name of our God in the same place he fell, there will be no greater honor than that."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: Tiruin on May 06, 2014, 02:55:13 pm
((PS:
Let me speed rap how my internet is broken right now and I dont have access to a computer unless I hit the library. :P

Literally, please skip me... :( Sorry.
Could I ask anyone to PM a suggestion-action for Dwarmin if they're able? That'd be great muchly :D

Also miniturn up later when Ochita posts.))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: Ochita on May 06, 2014, 04:01:06 pm
((Yeah Im back and stuff. Forgive me for my leave of absence, and if my posts seem a bit stiff for the first couple of turns after this one. Still, I do intend to be back for at least a good while so... Anyway.))

Gurrath hesitated, while the presence of the crown could mean nothing, it could equally, if not more possibly mean that something was up. And the hunting horn too.. The whole situation lingered heavily on his mind.
"We should be off soon, this recent activity has me cautious."

Quickly rifle though papers for some indication of the direction of this group, and regroup with the others outside the tent.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on May 06, 2014, 06:48:43 pm
"Ah, a prophecy!" Royce could have told the dwarf he'd heard a few hundred during his enormous lifespan and that they never came true (especially the dozen or so he'd made up), but there was no arguing with a believer and why provoke a fight right now anyway? "So what do you think about it? Hope it never happens, or are you just waiting for the day when you can fight the lurking monsters yourself?" His tone was light and conversational.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: adwarf on June 01, 2014, 11:57:05 am
Ignore this.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch 1: Epilogue | Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: Tiruin on June 10, 2014, 07:46:24 pm
This is a bit overdue for the update...which is pretty much offline due to cases (see below), but I'm quite worried as is about the state of the game. But first I think it's important to get an idea of who is still around... [due to worry about hey who's still up for playing//direct proportion of days since last update and possible players leaving].

Spoiler: Reason (click to show/hide)

Edit: I'm sure SerCon would love that reply adwarf! :p

Double Edit: I've...also kept it offline due to the forum gobbling up the post when originally, this included the turn along with it. Yeah, this is the third time this post has been written and I've managed to get it offline safely. >_>

Will post the turn soon if...everyone's still ok with the story.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch 1: Epilogue | Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: Skyrunner on June 10, 2014, 08:12:48 pm
The best thing you can do is just - deliver on time. One perfect update every three months is worse than an unpolished update every day. :I
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: adwarf on June 10, 2014, 09:45:25 pm
The best thing you can do is just - deliver on time. One perfect update every three months is worse than an unpolished update every day. :I
I heavily agree with this.

-----

((Sorry for the super late reply Serious :V))

"It doesn't really matter to me, I thought that the prophecy was false along time ago, but after what I've seen down there in the depths I'm not so sure about that conclusion anymore. There's only one thing I really know, and that's I will serve my God as best I can until that day comes and should it come I'll march to my death knowing full well that is what will meet me for that's the only way I can repay him for creating the order that saved me."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch 1: Epilogue | Turn 15: Recovery; Miniturn
Post by: Spinal_Taper on June 20, 2014, 01:47:25 am
Terys stops pacing and plops down next to the others. He looks back and forth at his comrades, only glancing at the cave walls occasionally. Tapping his fingers on his legs, he glances at Trent.
"Your god's called Ezekiel, huh? Anything else cool about him? A description or anything? Songs of praise or stuff like that?"
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch 1: Epilogue
Post by: Tiruin on August 16, 2014, 08:43:54 am
*pokes thread*
So...again here comes an update after months of delay.
RL happened.
Many things happened.
Though this thread won't ever die because I know I can run it.

@Dwarmin: Welcome back :) Someone was kind enough to submit an action for you (that was processed but due to the wait and myself... >_> yeah.)
Quote
Search for papers or any proof able to prove or disprove the fact that place is in fact the living quarters of the elven merchant she's been searching for.


I'm trying my best to make this a great RtD...before I realized I should fix m'self first before all this.
Granted, better position in life now and better everything. Turn speed has gone up by 200%
But...

Everyone still here for the next turn? :-\
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Reudh on August 16, 2014, 09:27:53 am
Hey hey. I'm here.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 16, 2014, 12:23:31 pm
If there is an RTD worthy of being called undead, this is certainly the one. A ghost game, if you will. Right there on the edges of our perception, lingering because of unfinished business and a desire to live, refusing to disappear from the world entirely.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on August 16, 2014, 03:23:19 pm
I'm around.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Digital Hellhound on August 16, 2014, 03:39:01 pm
Sure. I'm reasonably certain I can remember what's happened, too.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: adwarf on August 16, 2014, 03:53:37 pm
Sidequest player, but I'm still here.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Ochita on August 16, 2014, 06:17:17 pm
Yeah, still floating around over here.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Dwarmin on August 16, 2014, 07:56:21 pm
Boo!
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Parsely on September 22, 2014, 02:19:28 am
*explodes into thread*

PTW
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Ch 1: Epilogue
Post by: Reudh on September 22, 2014, 04:29:43 am
*pokes thread*
So...again here comes an update after months of delay.
RL happened.
Many things happened.
Though this thread won't ever die because I know I can run it.

@Dwarmin: Welcome back :) Someone was kind enough to submit an action for you (that was processed but due to the wait and myself... >_> yeah.)
Quote
Search for papers or any proof able to prove or disprove the fact that place is in fact the living quarters of the elven merchant she's been searching for.


I'm trying my best to make this a great RtD...before I realized I should fix m'self first before all this.
Granted, better position in life now and better everything. Turn speed has gone up by 200%
But...

Everyone still here for the next turn? :-\

A month later and this 200% increase is invisible :O
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Parsely on September 22, 2014, 08:32:30 am
That's..not very nice.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Skyrunner on September 22, 2014, 09:18:40 am
But it's true
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Parsely on September 22, 2014, 09:52:19 am
That doesn't necessarily mean it's polite to point out.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Caellath on September 22, 2014, 11:57:23 am
Don't worry, GUNIN, it's just a kind of friendly jab.

To be more specific, Tir probably already has a turn but refuses to post thinking it isn't good enough.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Parsely on September 22, 2014, 11:59:55 am
Don't worry, GUNIN, it's just a kind of friendly jab.

To be more specific, Tir probably already has a turn but refuses to post thinking it isn't good enough.
I guess.. :S

Mhm, yes I was talking to her about it on IRC last night.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Tiruin on October 04, 2014, 09:30:07 am
[placeholder due to being sick and not managing workloads efficiently; main turn post incoming in the next 12 hours]
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Tiruin on October 04, 2014, 09:32:24 am
Previous: In which we find some respite... (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5217298#msg5217298) | Current: In which we face choices (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=117723.msg5709529#msg5709529) | Next: 

Meanwhile...

Trent(!); Terys(!); Kheir(!); Aes(!); Royce (!)

Assist the search for anything useful.
[5]
Kheir pulls up his staff and walks over towards the fallen cliffside, examining closer its outcome. Several fish swim away as he passes by, though he notices the fishes not avoiding the debris after it has settled. Looking through the water around the site of impact and with the light of Aes’ torch, the stone underneath indicates little collateral or spreading damage.

He lifts up his staff and gives a cursory prod on one of the nearest supporting columns of fallen rock, noting down the improvised canopy the cliffside formed that hindered their return. Seeing it as stable, he sifts through the debris on a hunch.

You have found a small opening formed by the force of the falling cliff, approximately five meters in length with various diameter stretching down below into the darkness—using a lightsource to determine what lies beyond only lies in darkness, though the constant fall of water indicates a greater depth than what your vision and the lighting allows.
You notice moss growing erratically on the edges of the sides of this ‘impromptu’ tunnel, along with the same crystalline patches alongside them.

 
Search the area for anything of note.
[1 > 6]
With a hand on your cuisse and a bristle in your beard, you acknowledge the cave by due merit of its existence, feeling the tip of the water’s skin on your knuckles. It was cool and calming, matching the contemplation mirroring your thoughts.

As Aes lights up her torch in azure flame, you cast your eyes to the original pathway following the water. Judging from the level, and yet the lacking saltiness of the liquid—you judge that it is freshwater; rainwater purified by the stones above, and blessing the local fauna with life.

Turning back towards where you came, your eyes catch the precipitous nature of the rockslide and the breakage it forms. The pooling of the water would indicate another possible passage, furthered by Kheir’s examination. You mark two routes in your mind: the original path forward, though the water-level would indicate a dead end given its height by your standards, or test Kheir’s discovery, though the debris of the cliffside warns ahead of a possible instability. The debris is only as stable as the rest of it supporting itself, as it forms an improvised dome blocking you from the return path.

Looking around, you find insight in appreciating the beauty this minor ecosystem. The moss seem to have a reflective nature, matching the crystalline patches seen earlier—indicative by their pyrite-colored sheen. You note the lack of tree roots this deep, and notice Royce’s crab scaling his leather, vertically and remember the opalesque beauty of gemstones.

The study of luminescence is a fine and crucial art, you note on a random thought springing into your mind. Ecology was, actually, a fine art in theory, yet a very practical one.

Pace.
[4]
The small space you have has only the sounds of wading people, and the occasional splash of water by sudden movement. Stifling your worry, only to have it preoccupied by the rhythm of disturbed water, a thought strikes you. The knight spoke about tests and character, with abstract traits definitive of readiness to face the world. Flicking the water with one of your fingers, you find sense in foresight with this notion: What if the whole scenario you were in was a test in of itself? The recent disaster was lethal in its own right, yet gazing around you find everyone focused on continuation—or in the least, escape. You wonder if the concept of being tested has any merit in this situation, or on any future situations: and for what? Is this a passage to facing the world, despite the admittance to the Bastion and the region being a free choice?

You recall your past and the training you’ve had with the men of the field-and-castle, noting their friendliness and openness to any predicament or disaster; optimism in the face of holistic vision, and not blind optimism. Your thoughts drift outside of this situation until Kheir calls out a new find: the wreckage of what was once a cliff wall has made a new passage, and this one being hollowed out.

Was this still a test? And if it was-

The greyhound brushes against your leg and looks up you, standing in front of you with its tail wagging expectantly. It looks at Kheir’s find, before looking back at you, as if matching your deep insight.
Retrieve crab, talk to peeps, look around to see if there are any routes of egress.
[5]
You check around, using the crab as a lightsource—propping it on the hair of your forehead as it clings with its legs. Lighting up the original path, it seems like it continues in the natural order you found the passage as. Presence of scattered fish and moss in varying forms of growth as well as the ever present level of water, lead to the ideas of the formation of a dead-end, though the idea of underground rivers or outlets from rainwater was also a possibility given the structure of the rock, compared to when you entered this area.

Utilizing your memory of world lore, you remember in vague sketches that the particular area you stand on is a host to a hollow cavern, presumably habitable—judged as such due to how vague you remember it, though you cannot recall exactly where the idea was hoisted from. The facts of natural phenomena such as earthquakes occurring in the area somehow did not cause notable superficial damage to the lands above, and recalling your recent experiences beneath as various creatures, it didn’t affect the underground much.

You look back at the others to check their finds before Kheir announces a rather strange sighting back at the cliff debris. Looking around with your eyepatch, you only detect the energy of the animals nearby, and looking deeper towards the original passage, see none.

You feel uncomfortable for a moment, before the feeling passes as you feel the prickly legs of your crab on your shoulder. It is scaling your arm like a mountaineer: vertically and slowly.

Aes picked up the rope, and attempted to set fire to her torch..
[4 > 4]
Recalling the principle of equivalence under the laws of energy, you draw upon personal stores to light the torch in your hands, feeling a little winded yet joyful as a small jet of bluish flame hugs the wet torch, wrapping and sticking onto it as you see the water evaporate and let off a faint hiss, before returning to its yellow hue.

Feeling the rope, your fingers note its dynamic nature, built to absorb forces which would strain its elasticity and durability, noting once more its length: it was much more than enough to scale the now ruined cliffside thrice over. On impulse, you dedicate the tiniest of lengths to the flame, and find that it takes a very long time to burn—rather, you are interrupted before you note any tangible destruction by Kheir’s find.




Spoiler: Positioning (click to show/hide)

Characters:
Spoiler: Aes Nain ; Skyrunner (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Trent Alzar ; adwarf (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Kheir ; Reudh (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on October 06, 2014, 03:02:06 am
"I was a frog down here one time. Stop pinching. But, yeah. Nice place for a frog to live I guess but it's boring. Come on, let's get moving." Royce grabbed the crab between his hands, claws facing away from him. "Come on, pup. Let's keep it going." He whistled at the dog and started toward the opening.

Explore that tunnel Kheir found.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Reudh on October 06, 2014, 03:51:48 am
"Excellent. A tunnel. I've always liked tunnels."
Follow Royce into the tunnel.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Skyrunner on October 07, 2014, 07:18:04 am
Admire the crystals. Also examine.

Nain packs away the rope, and looks at the shiny rocks in the tunnel. Shiny!

"I wonder if these crystals are worth anything ..."

Follow the Kheir.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: adwarf on October 08, 2014, 06:58:09 am
"The path ahead is likely a dead end from what I gather, and while the path Kheir found is probably a different story it is very likely to be unstable, especially after the collapse that just occurred. We can probably follow the original path to check if my theory is correct, but if we don't then the only way forward is the unstable tunnel in which case we should proceed with severe caution, as a dwarf I am quite against dying in a cave in."

Follow Kheir, but keep an eye on the condition of the tunnel and warn the others if I think it's stability gets worse.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: SeriousConcentrate on October 11, 2014, 07:04:37 am
"Hmm. Khier, Trent, you're a pair of stout fellows. Mind grabbing that rope from Aes and using it to lower me down safely so I can get a look around?" Royce tapped his metal eyepatch. "This baby's not just for looks. I can see auras through it, so I can kinda see if anything's down there. Plus if I get eaten, no big deal. I won't be able to help you guys for... 3 to 100 years, depending on what I reincarnate as, but it's not like I'll die permanently or anything like you guys."
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Reudh on October 11, 2014, 07:26:32 am
"You're a strange one, Royce. I'll grab the rope for you."

Kheir goes over to Aes and asks for the rope.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Skyrunner on October 11, 2014, 08:42:02 am
"Sure, but you have to give it back. I like this rope."

Aes hands over the rope happily.
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Skyrunner on April 18, 2016, 10:17:06 am
(rest in peaceful dreams, ToSD)
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Turn 16: Unfolding
Post by: Tiruin on April 18, 2016, 10:20:58 am
...So I didn't make an ending post! :-X

Yeah, expect a follow-up game with refined mechanics later on.
...Probably in a lesser stressy atmosphere because I've learned my anxiety was the major detriment to this game (...updating 2 months in between? <_<).
But I'm really thankful to have played it with you guys. You are all awesome, and I am deeply thankful to have played host to you people as players. :))
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Returning at a Future Date
Post by: Skyrunner on April 18, 2016, 10:25:01 am
Two years.. so long ago...
Title: Re: Tales of Shattered Dreams, Returning at a Future Date
Post by: Tiruin on April 18, 2016, 11:19:33 am
Two years.. so long ago...
Nostalgia for many people :P It's nice to remember all those games you've played in.