Niles...Just Niles |
You have been travelling for the better part of a fortnight, from the interior of Numeria to Kenabres. The road has been kind to your musculature, but the weather has not been kind, with the spring showers following you all the way up the path. Fortunately, your wagon, a gift from your creator to be used on this ride, is a magical one. Each night, the driver, a man who simply perfers to be called Miles, transformed the wagon into a small house, big enough to offer shelter to all of you, and provide the necessary food and drink each time. You've been delayed by about two days, but no one complains. The 'wagon' sure beats roughing it in a tent in the middle of a storm.
You reach the outer gate to the Old Kenabres district about an hour before the midday. Miles is able to get the cart into the inner city, but not much further. Getting out of the back of the wagon, Miles hitches the horses and walks back to you. "I'm afraid this is as far as I can get you. If you follow the crowds, you'll make it to Clydwell Plaza before the fastivities begin. Don't forget to try out the food here." WIth that, Miles walks off to one of the vendor kiosks and you see him a minute later chewing on a turkey (or is that goat?) leg.
Your internal chronometers indicate that you have about 15 minutes before the main festivities begin. It is only about 1200' to the pavillion that Miles mentioned; however, there are many people between you and the pavillion. What you do to get to the plaza is up to you.
Sarasanna |
Sarasanna, appearing to be a pale, fair skinned, black-haired woman with dark eyes, refined features and a lithe build regards Niles with a blank expression. She nods, a common human gesture for the affirmative, and then gathers her things from the wagon.
"Festivities implies recreation. The humans here are practicing recreation to what end? It would be more efficient to make use of every available body during a state of war. Still, this is an opportunity to learn about the settlement. Perhaps a purpose to the festivities can be discovered," Sarasanna says with a feminine, monotone voice, as she turns toward the crowd.
Sarasanna begins to follow the crowd, as Miles suggested, turning back to see if her counter parts are following. "It is conventional to purchase food before the festivities," the android says as if reminding herself, "Shall any others join in following convention?" She adds to any nearby counter part. She then goes to a kiosk to get something to eat, seeking an item that would be most nutritional for her size and build.
Akkramar |
Akkramar jumps down from the wagon, first turning to Niles (or Miles :D) - "You have performed as expected and requested Niles - there is no reason to offer a justification for not going further" - although in form and movement, the android is close to perfection, his words seems slightly halted and artificial, even worsening as he tries to sketch a smile that really comes out... Wrong.
This is clearly a well built unit - carrying itself lightly in spite of the arrayed weaponry and armour all about him, it portrays a tanned skin, coupled with a bronzed skin, which even bears some sort of combat marking (added for effect, but playing its part very well) - the dark eyes pierce the surroundings as Akkramar continues - "So for the adequateness of the service provided, I believe some recognition is required - Thank you Niles" - he adds with a short nod, taking Sarasanna's lead - he had been accessing as many files on human behaviour as possible, and probably by now it was paying off - this time the smile did not seem quite as forced.
Turning to the others he adds - "Let us proceed inside the settlement - Sarasanna's course of action meets my approval - it is commensurate with our goal" - then back to Sarasanna - "I will deploy alongside you - assistance in locating and acquiring alcoholic beverage denominated 'wine' is requested" - he finishes, proceeding into Kenabres.
Sarasanna |
Sarasanna nods. "I shall assist in procuring of 'wine'. It is classified as a recreational beverage, and so is appropriate for the circumstances. However, the alcohol content of said beverage can impair sensory and processing function, the severity of which is determined by weight variance and blood-alcohol content ratio. We must keep in mind our individual ratios while consuming 'wine.'"
Sarasanna begins assisting unit Akkramar in seeking "wine", after having purchased a skewer with a number of nutritional items attached.
"'Wine' is further sub-classified into 'white' and 'red' sub-groups. Would sub-classification 'red' or 'white' be most optimal for the present scenario?" Sarasanna asks Akkramar as she continues into Kenabres, scanning passing kiosks for "wine."
Akkramar |
"I confirm your initial evaluation regarding the weight to alcohol percentage ration" - Akkramar comments - "An aperitif’s role is to stimulate the appetite for the meal ahead - dry white wines are believed to be the most popular option - hence the choice will be 'white' - he adds pausing for a moment - "There"
Spotting a stall offering beverages, the android attempts to shift the language style - "Well met beverage merchant - we would like to purchase a mildly alcoholic 'white wine' drink. Do you have such consumable available?" - then turns to the others to receive their feedback regarding the language adequacy to the situation.
I wonder if we are pushing it too far? Should we be less robotic? :D
Lord Manticore |
I'm finding this quite funny. I'm fine with playing this as is; the only 'human' interaction that you have had has been with your creators and Niles, so far. He doesn't talk much. What he just said to you is probably about the most you've gotten out of him in one sitting.
Lucifer Graves |
Lucifer gives the others slightly odd looks as he gets off the wagon, and turns to the driver. "You performed well," it says, not thanking the man, but acknowledging his competence. It grabs its things and turns to the other androids.
"Yes, let's. Although you are acting very strange... Can't you be a little more... human?" The android tilts its head to the side and gives a not-quite-questioning look.
I think it's amusing as well. Lucifer's probably going to ruin it, though, since he's been programmed with much more "humanity" than most androids. He It barely even considers himself itself one...
Dakkar de Enrev Seluj |
The short one climbed down from the wagon dragging a small backpack behind it. The back of the backpack had a colorful dancing dragon sewn into it.
My creator pre-loaded some historical references before activation. It would make sense to observe the locals before engaging.
Dakkar followed his own advice and scanned the crowd. Observing a female human holding hands with two smaller humans Dakkar walked up to Sarasanna and reached for her hand. Take notice, we will blend in better.
Bethune |
Bethune makes his way down from the wagon last and takes a moment to double check his pack meticulously. Seemingly satisfied the angular faced and dark eyed man nodded to the driver, sensing that the words of the other androids had already left an impression on the driver.
He moved swiftly into the thick of the crowd, what appeared to be a satisfied smile on his face. Bethune "remembered" the ebb and flow of this City and to him it felt like coming home. It was only when he had seen that his companions didn't share the same expression that he realized they didn't share the same feeling of warmth that he did, and the android couldn't help but be troubled by that fact.
He slowed his pace so that he was close with the rest of his group of new arrivals. He makes no stops at kiosks, eager to arrive at their destination. "Kenabres is alive." he states in a calm and warm voice. His bedside-manner was considered by his creators.
He silently agrees with Lucifer's sentiment, and keeps an eye out for any onlookers and assesses the attitude of the crowded humans.
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18
Similarly to Lucifer, Bethune is near full immersion. Those two might gravitate to one another.
Sarasanna |
"Strange? We were merely discussing 'wine.'" Sarasanna pauses for a moment. "My brother did say I was rendered strange by the resurrection."
Sarasanna follows Dakkar's gesture, and observes the human woman with the two smaller humans in tow.
"That is a potentially useful observation. However, both my hands are presently occupied." Sarasanna currently carries a skewer in one hand and a cup of wine in the other. "Later possible assistance in blending is noted, however."
I think I may have gone a little overboard with my earlier post, but classifying and analyzing wine as an adroid was too tempting an opportunity to pass up. ^_^
Though it should be said, Sarasanna is a complicated case. This android has the actual memories of a former person. This person was no demon hunter, though she was killed by demons.
'Sarasanna's' dual programming can come into conflict with itself, so Sarasanna may shift between being immersed in her "identity", and being the robotic android. 'She' however is unlikely to recognize the difference.
Lord Manticore |
"Strange? We were merely discussing 'wine.'" Sarasanna pauses for a moment. "My brother did say I was rendered strange by the resurrection."
Sarasanna follows Dakkar's gesture, and observes the human woman with the two smaller humans in tow.
"That is a potentially useful observation. However, both my hands are presently occupied." Sarasanna currently carries a skewer in one hand and a cup of wine in the other. "Later possible assistance in blending is noted, however."
I think I may have gone a little overboard with my earlier post, but classifying and analyzing wine as an adroid was too tempting an opportunity to pass up. ^_^
Though it should be said, Sarasanna is a complicated case. This android has the actual memories of a former person. This person was no demon hunter, though she was killed by demons.
'Sarasanna's' dual programming can come into conflict with itself, so Sarasanna may shift between being immersed in her "identity", and being the robotic android. 'She' however is unlikely to recognize the difference.
LOL I'm fine with the 'android' responses; it will make conversations rather amusing, particularly in the beginning, as all of you learn to interact with metahumanity at the organic level. I'm also fine with the split personality of your character. That's part of the reason I sent you the invite; I like shaking things up in my campaigns.
Lord Manticore |
As all of you walk towards Clydwall Plaza, you see humanoids, tall and small, around you. You can see warriors in heavy armor receiving benedictions from priests. Others are watching young humanoids (mostly human, but you do recognize some designations of elf, dwarf, and even a gnome) 'mock' fighting, using wooden practice swords. There are food vendors, as well as merchants of all kinds abound. Last chance to buy gear if you wish...
Finally reaching the plaza, you can see that a wooden platform has been built in the center, and you see a number of men, most wearing robes, but a couple wearing full plate mail, walking up the steps. To your left, you can see an enormous cathedral, easily 10-12 stories tall, dominating much of the local landscape. You are all aware that the wardstone, an artifact that was built during the Second Crusade, is placed near the highest location of the cathedral, built to face the river below, and to what lies beyond.
Church bells begin to ring, indicating the noon hour. You see one of the men wearing plate step up, reading a scroll as he walks.
You guys have about 10 minutes game time to cover any other conversations or buy stuff. When all of you indicate via ooc that you're ready, I'll move the plot forward.
Akkramar |
Well, I'm gonna base myself on Akkramar's Charisma to say he has been able to 'learn' to act more human-like when amongst others. But 'within' the android group, he tends to revert to a more robotic like attitude :D
Sipping from the wine, Akkramar moves amidst the crowd, paying attention to the movement, the sounds and the smells that invade his senses. His mind cannot possibly analyze it all, and this is something that he deeply appreciates.
He appreciates the workmanship of the amazing Cathedral, and tries to find a slightly more elevated area, even climbing atop a barrel to get a better view of the plaza itself - cracking a smile at the others, he comments - "Amazing my friends, simply amazing" - he addresses them, and they can notice a change in tone and attitude (if the smile had not given it away).
Jumping down from his perch, he adds - "The multitude and diversity are simply overwhelming - astonishing" - his trail of thought interrupted by the sound of church bells - "It seems this is about to begin" - turning to one of the closeby celebrants, he questions - "Apologies friend, I am a traveller and not well versed in the history of Kenabres - what exactly is being celebrated?"
Diplomacy?: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15
Mostly ready to go though ;)
Ulsted the Unsteady |
Looking at you in a peculiar manner (almost as if he wasn't paying attention to his ratio of wine to blood), the man speaks "Is's abou' celebrayin' the way dat those lazy crudasers sid on der butts and holler at the demons an' wave der swords ad eechoder. BRRAP!" He then puts his arm around you, as if in friendship, and starts muttering incoherently.
DC 21 Linguistics check if you want to decipher Drunkenese. ;P
Akkramar |
Linguistics (no ranks): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20
"I see... And why would they celebrate 'sitting on their butts' - would this be sufficient cause?" - Akkramar smiles at the man, supporting him up.
Dakkar de Enrev Seluj |
Dakkar makes an attempt to shrug his shoulders, unfortunately it comes off looking like him trying to tuck his chin into his belly button.
The few coins jiggling in his pocket aren't 'burning a hole', he knows his pack contains enough material for a few days and that he has no pressing needs. Dakkar is more interested in observing those around him than trying to sample any of the goods for sale.
Dakkar happily shares a few of the general historical accounts that were loaded into his memory banks.
He perks his head and listens to the drunk that belches into Akramar's ear.
Ulsted the Unsteady |
[dice=Linguistics (no ranks)]d20+4
"I see... And why would they celebrate 'sitting on their butts' - would this be sufficient cause?" - Akkramar smiles at the man, supporting him up.
After mumbling something about love for a moment, the man picks his head back up and says, "Xas' zackly what I've been saying! Hells, whos' to know wha' they do in der spair thime." The man stops for a second, as if trying very hard to come up with logical reasoning. Then he shrugs his shoulders, firms up his weak grip around your shoulders, and starts again. "Djid you know, I was once an adventhuer? Is true. I wonnered all 'roun' the wound and shtuff. But den, I go' an arrow in my knee. Hurt like hells. Den, I got my arm chopped off (he waves his left arm for emphasis of how 'chopped off' it is) by one of dem curved swords. That's righ,' a Curved. Sword. It was one of dem whadjamacallits, a surreal, out of body experiences. You know, like I was somewhere's else." The man blinks again, and you get the impression that he was just as coherent as he is likely to be for the rest of the day.
Sarasanna |
Linguistics, untrained: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 1 = 15
Sarasanna listens with a neutral expression, not able to decipher a word until the very end, which as far as she can tell, does not seem to follow from any of the complete gibberish spoken previously.
"You are difficult to understand." Sarasanna remarks flatly to the drunk, "Could you speak more clearly?"
Correct me if I'm wrong, but all she is able to decipher is, "a surreal, out of body experiences. You know, like I was somewhere's else."
I'm also fine with the split personality of your character. That's part of the reason I sent you the invite; I like shaking things up in my campaigns.
EDIT: Thanks! I am glad to be here! ^_^
Lucifer Graves |
Lucifer unhitches his mule from the wagon and begins wandering around the crowd, taking in the sights and sounds. He smiles in return at Akkramar's commentary and the conversation with Ulsted--a smile that looks like a genuine expression from someone who isn't quite sure how it's supposed to look. He doesn't say anything, just finds a spot in the throng to wait for the ceremony to begin--although his holy symbols are displayed openly, and he may be approached by those looking for benediction.
Lord Manticore |
Ulsted the Unsteady |
Sarasanna listens with a neutral expression, not able to decipher a word until the very end, which as far as she can tell, does not seem to follow from any of the complete gibberish spoken previously.
"You are difficult to understand." Sarasanna remarks flatly to the drunk, "Could you speak more clearly?"
Correct me if I'm wrong, but all she is able to decipher is, "a surreal, out of body experiences. You know, like I was somewhere's else."
LM wrote:I'm also fine with the split personality of your character. That's part of the reason I sent you the invite; I like shaking things up in my campaigns.EDIT: Thanks! I am glad to be here! ^_^
The Linguistics check was for the mumble-speak, before Ulsted made his last post. That being said, it's a wonder that Akkramar can understand him, and the guy is draped over him!
"S'wha sat?
Perception, Ulsted, 'bombed': 1d20 - 6 ⇒ (15) - 6 = 9
He has no idea that a woman (or anyone really) just spoke to him, his head just kinda swivels around at random.
Lt. Patricia Ripley |
Lucifer unhitches his mule from the wagon and begins wandering around the crowd, taking in the sights and sounds. He smiles in return at Akkramar's commentary and the conversation with Ulsted--a smile that looks like a genuine expression from someone who isn't quite sure how it's supposed to look. He doesn't say anything, just finds a spot in the throng to wait for the ceremony to begin--although his holy symbols are displayed openly, and he may be approached by those looking for benediction.
A beautiful (well, at least, based on the matrices that were programmed into you) elven woman of very dark complexion comes up to you and says quietly, "Father, I am about to be sent out to the frontier to join the front lines again. May I receive a blessing from her Goddess, Sarenrae, please?"
Sarasanna |
Sarasanna regards Akkramar with the drunk slung over him blankly for a moment. She attempts a smile, her lips curve upward, but her eyes remain blank.
"I shall be in the Plaza, awaiting the beginning of the festivities. Perhaps I shall find a more useful informant should time allow. Inform me if you require aid with your present burden."
Sarasanna then walks the rest of the way to the Plaza, taking in the sights and sounds. She is sure to keep at least two of her fellow androids in sight at all times.
Waiting for the festivities, she "enjoys" her skewer and wine, letting the sensory data of multiple flavors stimulate her receptors. As she gradually finishes her meal, she watches the varieties of people receiving benedictions from priests.
Sarasanna is pretty much ready for the celebration to begin. However, should she have time to finish her food and wine before it starts, she may attempt to receive a benediction from a priest, as there seems to be many doing this, so it would be an opportunity to learn about the customs of the city.
Akkramar |
Akkramar wrote:After mumbling something about love for a moment, the man picks his head back up and says, "Xas' zackly what I've been saying! Hells, whos' to know wha' they do in der spair thime." The man stops for a second, as if trying very hard to come up with logical reasoning. Then he shrugs his shoulders, firms up his weak grip around your shoulders, and starts again. "Djid you know, I was once an adventhuer? Is true. I wonnered all 'roun' the wound and shtuff. But den, I go' an arrow in my knee. Hurt like hells. Den, I got my arm chopped off (he waves his left arm for emphasis of how 'chopped off' it is) by one of dem curved swords. That's righ,' a Curved. Sword. It was one of dem whadjamacallits, a surreal, out of body experiences. You know, like I was somewhere's else." The man blinks again, and you get the impression that he was just as coherent as he is likely to be for the rest of the day.[dice=Linguistics (no ranks)]d20+4
"I see... And why would they celebrate 'sitting on their butts' - would this be sufficient cause?" - Akkramar smiles at the man, supporting him up.
"I would expect that in their spare time the Crusaders would addressing the logistics of the defense along the Worldwound? Honing skills? Training? Patrolling?" - Akkramar speaks to the man, almost as much as he does to himself - "As far as adventuring... What would you say in spite of all that has happened? Was it worth it?" - he asks honestly.
Sarasanna regards Akkramar with the drunk slung over him blankly for a moment. She attempts a smile, her lips curve upward, but her eyes remain blank.
"I shall be in the Plaza, awaiting the beginning of the festivities. Perhaps I shall find a more useful informant should time allow. Inform me if you require aid with your present burden."
"Stay close" - Akkramar nods.
Bethune |
Bethune takes his understanding of the festivities "to heart". He almost feels what organics might describe as a spark, or an epiphany. The advanced android's evolution happened every moment, gradually.
He walks close with Sarasanna as they make their way to the plaza." In response to your earlier inquiry as to the purpose of these festivities," Bethune begins. "I've been...'thinking' on it as well." he stumbles over the word, as if he was inclined to use another in it's place but was making an effort to 'act natural'.
"Everyone around is celebrating being alive, particularly in the face of what waits for them on the other side of the river: demons. In the thousands, certainly, possibly hundreds of thousands of demons. The odds really are staggering. All of those aforementioned demonic entities have a single directive...a single goal : destroy metahumanity." He pauses, as the 'thought' lingers over Bethune. "Despite this, the people of the city are enjoying the festivities... That it seems, enjoying life and not just surviving life, seems to be their objective."
He tilts his head to the side, watching her eat and drink. He recognizes a few subtle likenesses in the way she reacts when consuming these things to the faces in the crowds attending these festivities.
Sarasanna |
"Insofar as life itself has value, what you say has merit." Sarasanna admits, acknowledging Bethune as counterpart.
"Further, implicit in your reflections is that the festivities remind the people here of the differences between meta-humanity and the abyssal hordes. In a sense, it reminds them 'what they are fighting for.' This must benefit them in some way."
Sarasanna pauses for a moment, her gaze becoming distant as she accesses data from her memory files. "Prior to my resurrection, I was able to appreciate intrinsic value in such events. I did not need an explanation for everything, as I do now. It is confusing for me."
Sarasanna pauses again to take a sip of wine. "Your thoughts do raise the question, will these celebrations help the defenders of the city survive the coming battles of tomorrow and the many more, days to come?"
"There are some individuals here who can channel planar forces that make us more effective at destroying our enemies. The benefit of that is clear. However, is there something more? I don't see it yet."
Bethune |
"Neither do I." He admits meekly after a long pause.
He could appreciate the logic in Sarasanna's words. It seemed to Bethune that there must be some effect on the abilities of those enthralled in celebration, apart from the obvious inebriation in many of them. Still, while he theorized how this might be true, he could not sympathize with it.
"It seems to me there is strength in numbers, perhaps this identifying with a larger entity such as an army or a "crusade" provides this strength in a psychosomatic capacity? He asks himself as much as he does his feminine counterpart.
He seemed lost in thought for a good while as he took in the scenery of the plaza." I'm eager to assist meta-humanity." He declares defiantly.
Lord Manticore |
As benedictions are done and as some people enjoy the festivities a little too much, the noise of the plaza begins to quiet down as amplified shouts of "Quiet down, please!" fill the air and come from the raised platform. Within moments, and as the last sounds of the church bells reverberate across the plaza, the sounds of the festival drop down to little more than murmurs. The man in plate mail stands at the edge of the platform, looking out over the throngs of people gathered before him. He opens his mouth and begins to speak.
"Welcome, everyone to --"
Suddenly, there is a very bright light to the West, greater than perhaps even the sun. All eyes turn in that direction to see the distraction. That is when the top of the Cathedral of St. Clydwall vanishes in a massive explosion. Masonry fly everywhere, with large chunks, the size of boulders, crash into the masses of people in and around the platform. The platform itself is also nearly destroyed by the carnage; the people on top falling into the mass of collapsed wooden beams. You cannot tell if any of them survived.
Nearby, you glimpse an elf transform itself into a silver dragon: This is likely the great Terendelev; the self-professed defender of Kenabres, preparing for battle. At the same time, an impossible mass steps out of the flames surrounding the location of the explosion, a reddish giant, easily fifteen feet tall, and brandishing a massive sword in one hand, and a brutal looking whip in the other. This one, your data files indicate is none other than Khorramzadeh, the Storm King, known as one of the commanding generals of the demon armies. Both monsters fight above you, claws and metal flying through the air as people begin to flee. It may seem like an eternity, but it takes only a few moments to stop the dragon, knocking the creature into the cathedral itself, collapsing it almost entirely.
As the dragon crashes onto sacred land, another demon appears, this one even taller than Khorramzadeh, with multiple arms. Landing next to where the platform is, it destroys several surrounding buildings, before making hand gestures. The ground shakes as a portal appears in midair. There are still a few thousand people in the plaza, but their time is up. The ground itself opens up, heading straight for the group. Before you can react, all of you, along with many others, fall into the crack. What you see in these last moments are the following:
- The drunken man, Ulsted is hit by the demon's whip, and part of his body, from about the arms up, flies across the plaza. That part lands in the mouth of the second demon, who crunches down on the bones, with a smile on its face. The rest of the body falls down the chasm with you.
- The elven woman receiving benediction manages to get out of the way of the crack, only to be knocked against the wall of a building casually by a third demon, who steps out of the portal.
- Another person, maybe an elf, also catches the whip, but he seems more fortunate (?). His body, particularly his head, only catches the very tip of the lash. It is hard to tell if the elf is not dead already as he falls down the chasm as well.
-You catch a glimpse of the dragon, who seems to be looking straight at you. She waves her claws in your direction, and you can feel your fall begin to slow. Then the demon stands on top of the dragon. With a mighty swing of his sword, the dragon's head is cut from her body.
The chasm closes after that. You pass out from the shock before you reach the bottom, wherever that may be. At some point, you find yourself alive, with a floor underneath you, but no light to tell you where you are or if you are alone.
Lucifer Graves |
Lucifer turns to the elven woman and offers what he hopes is a sincere smile. "Of course, child." He clears his throat and takes the holy symbol of Sarenrae from his mule's load and holds it up. "Dawnflower, may your holy light shine upon this champion of the dawn as she goes forth against the darkness. She brings the Everlight to the shadow, illuminating a new world for the future. May your healing glow surround her always, and lead her safely through the trials ahead."
Finishing his benediction, Lucifer turns to face the platform. As events unfold, he quickly replaces the holy symbol and grabs his shovel, unsure of what good he can do but ready to do it. Then the ground opens up, and he shouts as he falls, helpless to the elven woman's plight.
I hope the dragon saved my mule, too...
When he awakens, Lucifer grabs his shovel, feels for the symbol around his neck, and struggles to his feet. He grabs at his ear and blinks. Uni͜t҉ ̸WE̸-LG҉-0̡2 ̀Dés̨igna͞t́ȩ Luc̸i͘fe͜r ca͜l̨lin̸g͜ o͜t͜her ̢units̸,̀ r̸espo̵nd,͡ ̀o̷ver͘.
Sarasanna |
The moment the blinding light bursts the tower, Sarasanna tosses food and wine aside and has halberd drawn and ready in an instant. "The Storm Lord is too powerful to engage directly. Scanning for weaknesses and awaiting a moment of vulnerability."
Then the chasm opens, and Sarasanna falls into darkness. All sensory input shortly goes off-line.
Sarasanna awakens, and struggles to her feet. She drops her pack on the floor, again lifting up her halberd, standing, though unsteady.
"Ǜn͕͆i¦t͕ V»-ѺѲ3͕1͕4 D͕e͆s͕̥ĩg͕n̆at͆ë́̓̈́ͅ S̈́a͆r͆ä́sa͇n̨n̆a˕r˖e˘s̢p̢ö̴́n͆diͅn̈́g. I͂ni̓t̢iãtĭn̆g˳̃ͅe͆m̈́e̲r̳g̴e̳n̲c̱y̰ s̲ḻa̱y̤e̒ȓ s̄e̢q̤u̲e̱ṉc̱e̢̓̒."
Sarasana jabs straight up into the air with her halberd, then sweeps low with the blunt end. After her precautionary strikes, she draws back into full defensive stance.
Sarasanna |
I'm not sure what Lucifer did, but what I used were several special characters in Open Office WP. I typed it up in an odt file, then copy-pasted. There is a section of special characters that distort the preceding letters. Add italics and bold in with the post format, and it comes out looking pretty staticy! ^_^
Akkramar |
Akkramar tried to respond adequately to the events around him - at the first explosion, his weapon was on his hand and poised to strike - his pupils dilate at the amazing transformation taking place closeby, as he stares upon the dragon now standing in place of the elf that was there just moments ago.
His focus shifts to the massive shape of Khorramzadeh in recognition, and when both of the almost mythical creatures engage each other he was already expecting it - The Defender of Kenabres exposes himself and flies against the demon - he registers, following the logical reasoning that an attack is taking place, as if the evidences around him were not enough.
He acknowledges as Ulsted is simply obliterated, almost ripped from his supporting arm, offered just moments ago - his processors acelerate at the sight, not only due to the obvious danger, but also due to something else, for now filed as an 'unidentified anomaly'
As the android begins the activation of defensive parameters, the ground opens up below him, negating any possible reactions, but... The Dragon looks directly and purposefully at him, and through magical activation slows his descent - effectively saving this unit's life, immediately before his own is taken - Akkramar is again unable to process this event, finding no logic or any reasoning that would explain Terendelev's action, except for a random act of 'kindness' which would be typical for such a creature, trying to save as many lifes as possible.
All this goes through his circuits as he descends into darkness.
------
He can hear a lot of static coming through the communicator - "Unปit: Akฉฑ..034 – Repจฒ.วถส...ษบฝภ attญฌ%%. Kฏฐฒ...... Decis.sad45$$" - he tried to respond, but apparently being underground seemed to strongly disrupt the communications - he filed away as something to report later, and decided to speak - "I am Akkramar - can anyone hear my voice?" - he stood up, still holding his weapon, and shifting the spectrum on the visual sensors until he can observe the environment around him.
Lord Manticore |
I'm not sure what Lucifer did, but what I used were several special characters in Open Office WP. I typed it up in an odt file, then copy-pasted. There is a section of special characters that distort the preceding letters. Add italics and bold in with the post format, and it comes out looking pretty staticy! ^_^
It looks great, but I can't replicate it on the iPad. Steve jobs really doesn't like playing with anyone. You guys can keep using what you've been using for Greyfang. When Archie talks in Greyfang, I'll use ooc and bold, and only on her character so as to not to confuse anyone.
'Archie', Mk II |
Greyfang Communications Suite online. Diagnostics mode initiated.
"Aziz, light." Even this weakened voice reverberates through the apparently cavernous chamber that you have fallen into. Suddenly, you see a small pair of lights flicker from about shoulder height, slowly scanning around the area. All of you see a medium height, lithe woman begin to stand, grabbing onto her shoulder, holding on for all its worth.
Diagnostics complete. AP-02 functioning within parameters. Secondary unit functioning within parameters.
You can see the woman start to move around. "Hello, is there anyone else in here?" As you look around, you can see a few others start to twitch and move as well.
Transmissions detected within immediate area. State your unit designation. Failure to comply with result in shutdown of communications.
The woman makes a few hand gestures and a ball of light appears in her hands. She sets the light down and starts to turn in your direction. Her skin appears to be far more organic than yours, without the bluish tattoos that are scattered across your 'skin.' However, your sensors show that this is the source of the transmission.
Comply.
Akkramar |
Unit 'Akkramar' - Class 7 'Evolver' Prototype android - complying - he echoes in response through the communicator.
"Here!" - he repeats, moving towards the woman.
Sarasanna |
"I am here. Prepared to strike at any nearby hostiles. Are any hostiles detected?"
Sarasanna remains in defense stance. As soon as Archie's light appears, she turns toward it.
U̒n͆i̲t D̳e͟s͖̈́i̪g̪n̢at̑ĕͅ S̤a̳r̲asꜗan̤n̢a̳, V͊-R͇-Љ3̈́1̈́4̲, c̫l̤o̤n̅ẽ âñd̂r̳o̅id pr̈́oẗ́otͅype ẅ́i̲th ascending slayer application, and nano-enhancing skeleton online. Responding now to master signal.
The Gray Fang communications become less choppy as "Archie" draws near.
"I have partial visual of the area. Where are we?"
Sarasanna moves cautiously toward the light, and looks around to see anything she can about the area or the presence of any extra-planar life forms.
Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28
"Aziz, light."
5th Element. Nice reference!
Lord Manticore |
You can make out, besides the party (and now this other person), three more bodies that show signs of life: One is partially buried under rocks, but she (?)is digging herself out; another one (an elf) is rubbing at his face while in a semi-sitting position (he is wearing robes and his face looks horribly mangled). The last one (wearing fine clothing) is starting to sit up to dust himself off, while looking in your general direction. He is a middle-aged looking human.
In a corner of the Northern wall, parked on a crevice, is a large spider. However, it does not appear to be moving, at least from where you stand
LOL
Sarasanna |
Dimensions of cavern approx. 30' by 110' width and length. Three causalities located. Plus one unidentified large arachnid. Scanning for extra-planar signatures.
"Bethune, Lucifer, are you there? I perceive three meta-humans. One appears damaged. I am on guard against an as yet unknown creature."
Sarasanna takes a few cautious steps towards the spider, and then holds defensive stance. She attempts to determine whether the creature is an outsider, and if it is, of what type.
Knowledge (Planes): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20
Dakkar de Enrev Seluj |
As the explosions and chaos erupted around him, Dakkar had one fleeting thought, we're not ready...
And then the ground started to collapse under him. Curling into a ball, Dakkar hoped for the best.
As the darkness closed in upon him, he could tell that the landing was much easier than it should have been. Mostly because he was still alive.
This is Dakkar, transmission is unclear. I appear to be unharmed.
Before moving in the darkness, Dakkar casts detect magic and looks around.
Lord Manticore |
Dimensions of cavern approx. 30' by 110' width and length. Three causalities located. Plus one unidentified large arachnid. Scanning for extra-planar signatures.
"Bethune, Lucifer, are you there? I perceive three meta-humans. One appears damaged. I am on guard against an as yet unknown creature."
Sarasanna takes a few cautious steps towards the spider, and then holds defensive stance. She attempts to determine whether the creature is an outsider, and if it is, of what type.
[dice=Knowledge (Planes)] 1d20 + 6
It is simply a large (for its size) spider. In game mechanics, it's a Medium spider. How close do you get to it, by the way?
Lord Manticore |
As the explosions and chaos erupted around him, Dakkar had one fleeting thought, we're not ready...
And then the ground started to collapse under him. Curling into a ball, Dakkar hoped for the best.
As the darkness closed in upon him, he could tell that the landing was much easier than it should have been. Mostly because he was still alive.
This is Dakkar, transmission is unclear. I appear to be unharmed.
Before moving in the darkness, Dakkar casts detect magic and looks around.
'Horgus Gwern |
You hear another voice in the dim light from the woman. "Well, of course I'm alright. That's what's important. What's more important is to find out how to get back to my manor home." Looking over at the woman, he sneers, "And I'm sure you want to get back to your precious wife, Anevia."
The woman clearly rolls her eyes, but refuses to rise to the bait. You hear a scream, and all eyes turn to the third man, holding his hands to his forehead. After he wails, the first man speaks again. "Of all the people to survive a demon invasion with, it had to be a conspiracy theorist, and a thief!" The man begins to stand, apparently none the worse for wear.
'Horgus Gwern |
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"Yes it is, Aravashnial, you bumbling idi..." The words trail off as 'Mr. Gwerm' gets a good look at the elf's face, or at least, what's left of it. Most of the face has been flayed, with marks stretching horizontally from ear to ear. The worst, however, are the empty eye sockets, or at least, mostly empty....
Mr. Gwerm's face takes on a grimace for a moment, before he forces his face back into impassivity. Looking down, he says "I can see, I mean, um, it looks like you got the worst of it, Aravashnial. I don't like you much, but I wouldn't wish your wounds on anyone."
Sarasanna |
Sarasanna stepped 20 ft. toward the spider, and then stopped. She remains there in defensive stance.
No extra-planar signatures detected on arachnid.
"There are no demons here." Sarasanna confirms. "I too seem to be unhurt. Have any other counterparts sustained damage?"
Sarasanna watches the spider for any sign of hostility, but does not move to engage.
If it were a demon, she would have gone to coup de'grace it, but since it's only a spider, she's just keeping an eye out. ^_^