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Aodhán breathed a sigh of relief, inwardly cheering at the sight of the Raggedy Man falling before the teamwork displayed by both Liesel-Marie and Nyym. He smiled with satisfaction at the sound made when the body hit the floor.
At long last, it was over. The nightmare, it seemed, had come to an end.
He made his way over to the still unmoving form of Kytynna, her face locked in that look of fierce determination that he had come to admire so much in the short time they had known one another.
The Chelaxian was about to turn toward the champion of Sarenrae when he heard Rohan speak, his voice touched by more than just a little fear.
Acid, we need a vial of acid, or fire, to burn him to bits and insure that he doesn't come back ever again.
The words snapped Aodhán back to full awareness of his surroundings, just in time to witness Liesel-Marie hacking at... something, with her blade of flame. He stepped away from the elf, hoping to catch sight of whatever it was being attacked.
And immediately regretted doing so as he saw the amorphous mass of flesh moving to land its tendrils on the Erutaki warrior.
Here comes the raggedy man! Raggedy man! Raggedy man! Hey, raggedy man! Raggedy! Raggedy!
Rohan, after frantically searching his gear, looked up and said I don't have one, does anyone else?
This caused the bald Mwangi to rifle through his own things, hoping also to find something, anything, that could be of use.
Aodhán looked on in horror, not sure what he could do to assist his companion. Then something seemed to occur to him. With a backward glance at Kytynna, the bouncer charged forth and grasped the haft of the greataxe. Almost immediately, the fleshly tendrils grabbed onto him, clinging to the Chelaxian with inhuman strength.
Upon doing so, a cascade of images flashed through his mind, and while some were obviously recent memories of Aodhán's, others were not...
A yelp behind him from within the improvised cave caught Gorewillow's attention. The half-orc turned away and began to make his way deeper inside the hill. Gossamer cobwebs hung from the ceiling of the rough tunnel, and the misty spray from the Hopespring’s waterfall outside glimmered faintly on strands of spider silk. Chunks of rubble lay scattered on the floor amid piles of dirt.
After sixty feet, the tunnel opened into a cavern. The air here was humid but cool, and a thin sheen of condensation coated its rocky walls. A narrow passage exited the cavern to the west. To the south, the floor dropped away into darkness, while a bridge of stone led to another cavern to the east. The sound of trickling water echoed all throughout the complex.
Aodhán/Gorewillow took in the sight before him with a look of amazement. That, however, changed as a wall of citrine mist rose up around him, tumbling through cavern complex like some jaundiced flash flood. From the silent swell of fog, emanated the soft murmur of indistinct voices and the sound of footsteps – slow, yet somehow keeping pace with the careening, hungry wave.
They each had a hard time making out what was being said. Indeed, they were utterly convinced that the noise was nothing more than an incoherent babble.
They put it out of their mind and began looking for his pets. Something had happened to them in this place, so that meant he had to move cautiously to find what he was looking for.
And all around them, the voices continued to sing their song.
I know that voice, thought Aodhán. No, Gorewillow. And in that moment a name came unbidden to his mind, and with it the image of a body partially buried amidst the loose rocks and dirt of an aborted tunnel.
Akrish.
Aodhán could see that when Gorewillow and his half-orc infiltrators had first come to Trunau, they had taken up residence in the Plague House’s mostly forgotten basement, as Akrish, the group’s cleric, believed they might be able to tunnel from there into the tomb of Uskroth. Having found no sign of an entrance to the tomb after nearly a week of frustrated digging, Gorewillow killed the cleric and ordered the team to move into Trunau proper—first to the Ramblehouse, then into an old house in upper Trunau that Gorewillow purchased from an unscrupulous seller at the Barterstones.
The image of the cleric's red gold medallion seared their mind's eye, the amalgam of Gorewillow and Aodhán produced a flask from within the billowing sleeve of their kimono-like garb and tossed it into the roiling jaundiced fog.
An explosion of flame erupted from within the mist and then was no more, only for the voices within to called out to the two:
Here comes the raggedy man! Raggedy man! Raggedy man! Hey, raggedy man! Raggedy! Raggedy!
The mist parted. A mask of gray rags emerged, strips of something fleshier than fabric worming and constricting across a body that was almost humanlike — but too lean, and far too flexible. Gauzy gray ribbons reached out like tendrils, each grasping for less doubtful flesh to claim.
The memory ended and another began. And another. And another. Aodhán's mind was being overwhelmed, but they... no he, was determined to hold the images off for as long as he could in the hope that his companions could up with something, anything, to end this threat once and for all.
Back in the cavern, the flesh was slowly enveloping the Chelaxian bouncer. Despite the pace at which it moved, it was soon clear that it was just a matter of time before Aodhán would be consumed and the Raggedy Man would return to menace the rest of Team Ruby once more.
hold person
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"Aodhan, no!" The Erutaki's mind raced. Fire doesn't help, surely mere strength is not sufficient. What else do we have? Acid?
She continues to hack at the fleshy mass. "Think, my friends! What do we have to drive this monster away, to release Aodhan!?"
As the elf came to she could only remember the look on the Chelaxian’s face as he glanced back at her while he walked away. As her mind fully cleared she heard the cries from her family, she turns to see the fleshy goo enveloping Aodhán.
You can’t have him!
She shouts as she runs over to him, hoping that there was time to save him. Hope, by any other word means everything. One word speaks volumes. Right now it brought one other to mind. Faith. Faith that his mind holds out. Faith that he could be saved. She takes his face into her hands and looks at him in his struggles.
I have faith in you... like you have faith in us. All I can do is hope you come back to me.
Her faith wished to call out to his mind. To buy his will some time. Kyt leaned in and kissed the bouncer. Not caring if this thing tried taking her too. Seeing him like this was like taking a knife straight to her heart.
Then it hit her...
Releasing her hold on his face she pulled out her Hope Knife and positioned herself to stab the flesh that was trying to take hold of him.
You have no power here! Not against something you don’t have, you vile, evil, putrid, filth of a creature! Hope!
She then stabbed it with everything that she had in her. She shouted to the rest of the group.
PIN IT DOWN! TAKE IT OUT WITH ALL THE HOPE IN YOUR HEARTS! KILL IT WITH OUR FAITH IN EACH OTHER!
With both of her hands holding the Hope Knife, she dug it as deep as possible into the creature, with all the hope she had in her.
Nyym breathed a breath of relief as the Raggedy Man fell to him and Liesel-Marie. Nyym had turned to check on his other companions before keeping good on his promise. Then all hell broke loose. Turning back in time to see Liesel-Marie ignite her flame blade, yelling at the flesh that grabbed her axe. More yelling. This time Rohan, then Aodhen ran in to gab the heft of the axe. Kyt followed close behind as both her and Liesel-Marie screamed for Aodhen to not do it. The flesh grabbed hold of him. Nyym mind raced.. this was not supposed to happen. It was supposed to be over. Then it hit him.
Gorewillow was not the original Raggedy Man. What's happening to Aodhen is how Gorewillow became the Raggedy Man.
Nyym completely ignored the fact that Kyt just kissed Aodhen. Now was not the time for such issues of the mind and heart. Then a voice in Nyyms head. Not his own or his companions. But familiar.
Rodrick?
Nyym had his Hopeknife as he did the Goddesses Sword.
USE IT!!
Had the something happened to the Hopeknife? He heard it again, this time Rodricks voice was joined by a female one that he could not identify. Nyym somehow knew what he had to do. Even if it killed him. Pulling Rodricks Hopeknife from its sheath, Nyym moved I
In.
NO!! Not today, Not ever again. You will terrorize us and enslave no one ever again. This ends NOW!!!
Nyym drew back with both hands above his head.
And Gorewillow, Rodrick sends a message. He says to enjoy burning in Hell..
With that, Nyym dropped to his knees driving Rodricks Hopeknife through the head of Gorewillow Raggedy Man...
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Aodhán, no! The Erutaki's mind raced. Fire doesn't help, surely mere strength is not sufficient. What else do we have? Acid?
She continued to hack at the fleshy mass. Think, my friends! What do we have to drive this monster away, to release Aodhán!?
As the elf came to, she could only remember the look on the Chelaxian’s face as he glanced back at her while he walked away. As her mind fully cleared and she heard the cries from her family, she turned to see the fleshy goo enveloping Aodhán.
You can’t have him! She shouted as she ran over to him, hoping that there was time to save him. Hope, by any other word means everything. One word speaks volumes. Right now, it brought one other to mind.
Faith.
Faith that his mind would hold out. Faith that he could be saved. She took his face into her hands and looked at him in his struggle.
I have faith in you... like you have faith in us. All I can do is hope you come back to me.
Her faith wished to call out to his mind. To buy his will some time. Kytynna leaned in and kissed the bouncer. Not caring if this thing tried taking her too. Seeing him like this was like taking a knife straight to her heart.
Then it hit her...
Releasing her hold on his face, she pulled out her hopeknife and positioned herself to stab the flesh that was trying to take hold of him.
You have no power here! Not against something you don’t have, you vile, evil, putrid, filth of a creature! Hope!
She then stabbed it with everything that she had in her. She shouted to the rest of the group.
PIN IT DOWN! TAKE IT OUT WITH ALL THE HOPE IN YOUR HEARTS! KILL IT WITH OUR FAITH IN EACH OTHER!
With both of her hands holding the hopeknife, she dug it as deep as possible into the creature, with all the faith she had in her...
Nyym breathed a breath of relief as the Raggedy Man fell to him and Liesel-Marie. Nyym had turned to check on his other companions before keeping good on his promise. Then all hell broke loose. Turning back in time to see Liesel-Marie ignite her flame blade, yelling at the flesh that grabbed her axe. More yelling. This time Rohan, then Aodhen ran in to gab the heft of the axe. Kyt followed close behind as both her and Liesel-Marie screamed for Aodhán to not do it. The flesh grabbed hold of him. Nyym's mind raced... this was not supposed to happen. It was supposed to be over.
Then it hit him.
Gorewillow was not the original Raggedy Man. What's happening to Aodhán is how Gorewillow became the Raggedy Man.
Nyym completely ignored the fact that Kyt just kissed Aodhán. Now was not the time for such issues of the mind and heart. Then a voice sounded in Nyym's head. Not his own or his companions, but familiar all the same.
Rodrick?
Nyym had his hopeknife as he did the Goddesses Sword.
For the only hope we know in this life,
Is one that gleams at the end of a knife.
Had the something happened to the hopeknife? He heard it again, this time Rodrick's voice was joined by a female one that he could not identify. At least, not at first.
By the traditions of our town, you have come of age. This hopeknife represents your responsibilities as an adult and defender of Trunau. You must be willing to use it on yourself, your fellow Trunauans, and your family - even me, should it come to that. It will be a far quicker death than that which the orcs will offer, and providing it is your duty. Do you swear to guard Trunau from all comers, and to use your hopeknife only for its intended purpose?
The voice belonged to Halgra of the Blackened Blades.
If the orcs come, and there is no other option, this is where you cut — here, here, and here.
Halgra demonstrated which arteries to sever. When she was finished, the haggard dusky-skinned woman sheathed the hopeknife and placed the necklace around Nyym’s neck before turning back to address the crowd.
Nyym somehow knew what he had to do. Even if it killed him. Pulling Rodrick's hopeknife from its sheath, the half-drow moved in.
NO!! Not today, Not ever again. You will terrorize us and enslave no one ever again. This ends NOW!!!
Nyym drew back with both hands above his head.
And Gorewillow, Rodrick sends a message. He says to enjoy burning in Hell.
With that, Nyym dropped to his knees driving the now glowing fire-blackened hopeknife through the head of the Gorewillow/Raggedy Man.
As both Kytynna and Liesel-Marie hacked and slashed at the tendrils of flesh clinging to Aodhán, they witnessed the gelatinous coating shudder and quake. Then one by one the growths relaxed before releasing their individual grips on the Chelaxian bouncer, fading away to nothing before hitting the ground.
Next to Nyym, the body of Gorewillow was desiccated, drained of all its vitality. He stared absently at the slender dagger that bore the stark silver inscription "My love" on the still-glowing blade.
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Liesel-Marie half-falls to the ground, sitting heavily beside Nyym and the dead half-orc (?). Reaching up to the kneeling elf, she pulls him off-balance and into her lap where he is engulfed in a fierce hug that threatens to snap him in half.
After a long moment, she pushes him back and, still holding him, says, ”How did you know? Why did you use the dagger?”
Then, she realizes the awkwardness of the position he is in. Blushing furiously, she rights him back on his knees.
Breathing heavily, she looks at the others. ”It’s been one fight to the next for what feels like a month. What do we do now?”
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Nyym, exhausted from the long night of continued battle, dis nothing to resist Liesel-Marie from pulling him onto her lap. He was about to fall back anyways. Excepting her hug, once she reliesed him he fell back into a sitting position. He was tired, as were the rest of his companions. He stared at the body of Gorewillow for a long moment. Then fell back to lay next to Liesel-Marie. Not caring how awkward or telling it may look. Not like anyone was gonna say anything to either of them anyways. He chuckled at that last thought. Then he answered LM...
At 1st I didnt. I had kept Rodricks Hopeknife on me cause I had made an unspoken promise that if I ever caught that bastard. I was going to honor Rodricks memory and family by using it for the killing blow. When everything went sideways after you removed his head. I didnt know what to do. But the I heard Rodricks voice. I heard him repeat the last line of the Ballad of the Blood March...
For the only hope we know in this life,
Is one that gleams at the end of a knife.
Then I heard Halgras voice as well..
By the traditions of our town, you have come of age. This hopeknife represents your responsibilities as an adult and defender of Trunau. You must be willing to use it on yourself, your fellow Trunauans, and your family - even me, should it come to that. It will be a far quicker death than that which the orcs will offer, and providing it is your duty. Do you swear to guard Trunau from all comers, and to use your hopeknife only for its intended purpose?
If the orcs come, and there is no other option, this is where you cut — here, here, and here.
It was her speech from the presenting of the Hopeknife when each citizen has earned it or come of age.
I had to trust that I was hearing those 2 voices and phrases for a reason. As for the glow of the blade. That's new. I can only surmise that it was blessed as we were by Goddess Iomedae when her Long Sword disappeared from my back.
Nyym eased up on his elbows to look toward Aodhen..
Are you ok my friend? Please sit and allow Nogusta to tend to ur wou ds if he is able.
Nyym looked at his weary companions. His family. Then from them he allowed his dark vision to look deeper into the dark..
As to what we do now. 1st we catch a breather. Then we need to find what they came here for and secure it if it's still here so that it doesn't fall into the wrong hands. Then we get out of here and report back to whoever is left of the Council.
Nyym turned his head toward Liesel-Marie and gave her a smile that the others couldn't see to let her know that he did not feel awkward at all by what had just transpired between them. Then fell back with his hands behind his head to keep from smacking it against the floor..
The bloodrager pats the elf on the shoulder. Once she has caught her breath, she gets back on her feet and starts searching the body. She sets the items aside as she works, not bothering to try to identify any of it.
She holds up a piece of paper, ”The body has a letter. Can anyone read this?”
The elf had stood up, grabbing Aodhán in an embrace under his arms with her head hiding in the crook between his neck and shoulder. She had no idea if he knew what she had said or done while he was battling during his self sacrifice. She hid her face from his view so he couldn’t see the look of relief as she sighed heavily. Though she held onto the bouncer in the case he needed the support after his ordeal.
Aodhán, would you like me to help you to the ground? I don’t think I have much strength to stand much longer myself.
She said with her face still hidden. Though she offered a glance to what Liesel-Marie held in her hand.
I’m sorry my friend and sister... I cannot read it.
She said as she awaited any words from the currently silent man that she held onto.
Say something, anything, so I know that you are alright. Is there anything I can do?
Please, to all that is good. Be alright.
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Nogusta came over to where Kytynna and Aodhán stood together. I need to check and see whether or not the two of you are okay. The taller Mwangi then assisted in easing the two gently to the cavern floor.
Throughout the process, Aodhán was not responsive to at all, whether it be to the words of the elf or the ministrations of Sarenrae's champion. He lay supine, eyes closed, his nostrils flaring with each irregular breath taken.
When Liesel-Marie showed them the letter from Gorewillow's corpse, Nogusta looked up from his work on the Chelaxian. I may be able to assist with that. I need but a moment.
He grasped his sacred medallion with one hand and began chanting. I beseech thee, Everlight, to decipher words unclear and bring comprehension to your servant.
When he was done, the champion of Sarenrae took the offered letter from the Erutaki and scanned its contents before reading them aloud for all to hear.
Get me Uskroth's hammer and rock. I want everything else in the barrow too, but I have to have the hammer and rock. I think it looks like the rock I already have and showed you. I need both rocks to know the way to the Giantkiller's Tomb, so make sure you get the right one. Then bring the hammer and rock back to the fort. Signed, Grenseldek, Glorious Chieftain of the Twisted Hearts.
He then looked over to Kytynna. What would you have them do? As leader, you must fulfill your duty to both your companions and to this town.
The Mwangi waited expectantly for Kytynna to speak, as did the other members of Team Ruby.
With reluctance for the emotional, a weary ache to the physical, but an honor for the role, she stood up and addressed the team.
I know that we are tired, hungry, and quite frankly in need of the break. However now that we know what we are looking for, may that knowledge aid us in getting home faster.
She picked up and strapped her weapons, and anything else that may have come off of her person, back on.
I need all able bodies to search for these items. Nobody is to branch off without at least one other member with them, only should it be needed. We must finish this before the other boot drops. He may be gone, but he is not the only one that would wish us harm. Seen by the one who challenged us and the one that got away. Regardless, we do this, and we go home.
She looked down at Aodhán with worry. She pulled out her blanket, covering him from the chest down. Then pulling out her water skin, she wet his lips slightly. Leaving the skin beside him.
Please don’t go.
She said to him as she took her symbol of Irori our from her robes and put it in the bouncers hand. She looked at Nogusta.
Please save him. I beg of you.
Re standing she awaited for those who would accompany her in the search.
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I will do what I can for him, began Nogusta. But he lost a lot of his vital essence to that... creature. That he still clings to life as tenaciously as he does tells me that he is fighting for something bigger than himself. The best you can do - no, all of us, is carry on with what needs to be done. And for me, that means tending to him until the rest of you finish your search of this place.
The Mwangi placed a comforting hand on the shoulder of the elf, then went back to taking care of Aodhán.
Rohan just stood there shocked at what was happening, looking through his bag to find something only to notice a moment later that the blades of the hope knife were doing more then anything we could have imagine. He watched in confusion, but kept his distance as he watched. Following the group should we move forward.
Liesel-Marie sighs and nods, having caught her breath. Grabbing up her weapons, she looks in both available directions.
"Well, my friends? Which direction should we go?"
Nyym pulls himself back to his feet and looks in the 2 different directions that are options.
I'm game to go across the bridge. Who's going with who?
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"Not sure i'll be much help, I'm pretty well spent." Mesa muttered leaning on her drums, the ACID dripping tendrils every one had fading as the music died off. Before long even Boo's flame claws faded as well."I'll help where I can, but don't expect any decent spell slinging or help carrying anything too heavy, I'm a bard after all." Mesa huffed, looking to her she looked like she had when she was forced to join the party a Min-kai woman in a simple garb with some leather armor. Any hint of the tails or ears was long gone along with the music.
"More eyes to watch for threats sounds good to me. And for rocks and hammers. I understand someone wanting a hammer if it's important enough to give it a name, but who goes to all of this for a rock? Especially if you already have one like it? Isn't that what the letter said?"
She looks at Nyym. "We all go together. If you aren't staying to protect the priest, you go with us. We can hardly afford to split into two groups - we definitely cannot divide into three. I care not which way we go first."
"Maybe the letter refers to an anvil or a type of mineral?" Mesa shrugged." I don't know much about metal working."
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Nogusta noticed the two scrolls that were part and parcel of the loot that Team Ruby had accumulated since the Hopeknife festival. He moved from beside Aodhán and picked them up, broke their seals and perused each of their contents. When the Mwangi was done, his lips were formed into a large smile.
I may have another option for us to consider.
Nyym looks back at his companions after Nogusta played out the new option...
If you all wish to go with Nogusta's option. Then being one of the last hurt, I can stand 1st watch while you all get rest. Personally I feel his plan is a good one as we dont know what else lurks before us or how deep this goes. I am flexible with whatever you wish to do.
While Nyym was very fortunate in the battle. He knew others bad not fared so well. Plus this time will do good to help Aodhen heal some as well while we take our turns resting and while we search. Looking over at his fallen friend, Nyym while thankfull for the time he had bought them. Nyym knew that Aodhen had paid a heavy price and would take alot more time to recover. Nyym looked over to Kyt..
I do not mean to overstep you as leader if I have done so. I am nearly giving my observation based on our readiness or lack there of. As I stated also. I am willing to sit 1st watch. I will go with whatever is decided.
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Kyt and Nyym each gained an additional 2 points to their ki pools, as though they had taken the Extra Ki feat.
Liesel-Marie gained an additional 6 rounds of rage per day, as though she had taken the Extra Rage feat.
Mesa gained an additional 6 rounds of performance per day, as though she had taken the Extra Performance feat.
Rohan gained an extra wild talent, as though he had taken the Extra Wild Talent feat (even though the character didn't meet the prerequisites for it), allowing him to select an infusion or a non-infusion wild talent, but not a blast or defense wild talent that could be taken at his then current level.
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Nogusta takes one of the scrolls then moves to stand at Aodhán's head before unrolling it and reading aloud its contents. A shimmering haze extended from the supine bouncer, the emanation occupying a 30-foot radius circle around the unconscious Chelaxian.
The Mwangi then looked to Liesel-Marie. It is done. Those of us who will be resting now should do so while Lady Kyt and Sir Nyym stand watch over us. When two hours have elapsed, they will wake us so that you and the others will stand guard while I take care of our friend here. With the last statement, the champion of Sarenrae gestured at Aodhán. After the next set of two hours, you will awaken those two and finish searching this tomb for the items that were being sought by this Grenseldek cheiftain.
Rohan enjoys the chance to finally rest when things settle down. Of course there are things that need to be done once awaken but none the less it is a nice relief after such a brutal battle that took place only a short while ago. Rohan is not really sure what should be done from here on as the biggest goal has already been accomplished but he believed that the orc king was still out there and wanting to kill people so there was that for motivation to go on. However, he was also considering moving on and finding out a little more about his parents and his background in the near future. This would eventually take him away from the group but it was something that he must do on his own. As of right now though he will stay with the group until there is a good place for them to go there own ways.
Rohan laid down when his time came up and relaxed for what seemed like a long 8 hour rest but when he awoke it was only 2 hours later feeling fully refreshed. A large yawn came over him as he arises from what felt like the dead but feeling as though things were much better. He gathered his gear and immediately Consumed 3 points of burn as his skin harden to stone. Making him feel much stronger then before.
Rohan stood guard with the rest of the group, watching for anything that might be out of the ordinary. Things might not always be what they seem around here.
"I wonder where we are suppose to go next. We still have to make it to the safe haven. I am not sure which way we are going to take to get there, hmmmm.
Rohan mummbled softly to himself, but of course in this cave and his extremely deep voice it was likely much louder then he anticipated.
"Hmmm, those webbing are likely to contain spiders of some sort. Doubtful we want to take that way. However, that bridge on the other side seems like the only true way out of here. We should be on guard encase something does spawn from there."
Rohan made sure while taking guard to stand near the spider webs because last thing he wanted was spiders to attack us while we were resting.
Nyym steps towards the spire and examines the symbols. Careful not to touch anything till it was known for certain what they were dealing with.
Nyym blinks... and as a thought appeared in his mind. He couldn't resist the urge to run the tips of his fingures over his face.
A memory? I feel as though I should know this place.
While Nyym had no real memory of his past other then the flashes here and there that started recently. He did however try to search his memories of his time in Trunau..
Nyym continues to stare at the patterns and listen to the strumming to see if anything else triggers in his mind. To the others, it would almost seem as though Nyym had entered a trance of sorts..
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Nyym continued to stare at the patterns and listen to the thrumming to see if anything else triggered in his mind. To the others, it would almost seem as though Nyym had entered a trance of sorts...
The flattened face of the spire began to glow softly with eldritch yellow runes as every member of Team Ruby present began to feel the heavy weight of eyes upon their souls.
All at once, a tall slender man dressed a voluminous saffron robe stood before the half-drow, staring at him with confidence and contempt, no small task for someone concealing his face. Only blue eyes peered out from behind the slits of an expressionless mask of white.
And so you've come to me again.
The rest of Nyym's companions saw a different spectacle play out before them, as a large purple spider with a hideously bloated body materialized into view next to Rohan. The creature has an eerie, humanoid face surrounded by a shaggy mane of fur and moved quickly with fluid grace toward the scion of giants despite its ponderous bulk.
Purple Spider: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21
Rohan: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20
Mesa: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15
Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12
Kyt: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10
Liesel-Marie: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
Battle Music: Apocalyptica - 'Path Vol. II'
The spider attempted to tighten its grip on the scion of giants.
Rohan is taken back by the impact of the spider grappling him and feels like his life is slowly being drained from him. He tried to resist but it just was strong enough to make the fortitude of the spiders poison.
--------Rohans turn------
Rohan again tries to struggle free but the spider is holding on with all its might.
Rohan felt the grip of the spider wrapped around him and there was nothing he could do at all to even help his situation. He knew he would surely die if the group did not save him.
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Purple Spider: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21
Rohan: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20
Mesa: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15
Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12
Kyt: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10
Liesel-Marie: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
Battle Music: Apocalyptica - 'Path Vol. II'
Rohan
The scion of giants was taken back by the impact of the spider grappling him, feeling as though his life was slowly being drained from him. Rohan tried to resist, but was just was strong enough to fight off the worst effects of the spider's venom.
Rohan felt the grip of the spider as it wrapped around him, and he knew there was nothing he could do at all to even help his situation. The scion of giants felt that he would surely die if the rest of Team Ruby did not intervene to save him.
"Oh that better not be a Kumo..." Mesa grumbled glad she had time to rest, still there had to be something she could do quickly though one thing came to mind.
While it wouldn't help rocky directly, it would allow everyone else to lay the smacketh down on this spider.
"...Body's aching all the time..." Mesa singsonged as she drew out her shamisen.
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Purple Spider: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21
Rohan: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20
Mesa: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15
Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12
Kyt: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10
Liesel-Marie: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
Battle Music: Apocalyptica - 'Path Vol. II'
Mesa
Oh that better not be a Kumo..., Mesa grumbled, glad that she had had the time to rest. Still, there had to be something she could do quickly though one thing came to mind.
While it wouldn't help Rocky directly, it would allow everyone else to lay the smacketh down on this spider.
...Body's aching all the time..., Mesa singsonged as she drew out her shamisen.
The Minkai minstrel's vision became overlaid with a transparent display, allowing Mesa to view and sort through information regarding the spider without her having to take eyes off of it. One thing that stood out to the minstrel was a spot, a small hole near the spinnerets, which her display identified as a spiracle. Spiracles usually led toward the respiratory system of the creatures possessing them.
Could this be a weakness that the spider possessed?
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Purple Spider: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21
Rohan: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20
Mesa: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15
Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12
Kyt: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10
Liesel-Marie: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
Battle Music: Apocalyptica - 'Path Vol. II'
Nyym
Nyym continued to stare at the patterns and listen to the thrumming to see if anything else triggered in his mind. To the others, it would almost seem as though Nyym had entered a trance of sorts...
All at once, a tall slender man dressed a voluminous saffron robe stood before the half-drow, staring at him with confidence and contempt, no small task for someone concealing his face. Only blue eyes peered out from behind the slits of an expressionless mask of white.
And so you've come to me again.
The half-drow bore a confused look.
You do not recall our initial encounter?
As the being spoke, something seemed to spark in Nyym's mind. A flash of memory from earlier in the day...
Startled by the familiar sounding voice, Nyym took a step back only to feel the presence of ...something, in the room. Turning so that he could see everything while guarding his rear, the half-drow spied a translucent figure hovering above Kytynna. It seemed to stare at him with an uncaring malice unlike anything he had ever experienced. Words came at him so fast as to seem jumbled, spoken by many and none all at once. The cacophonous sound persisted, Nyym's mind trying to make sense of it all. With considerable effort, he focused on filtering out the excess noise until he was left the understanding of what was being spoken:
You're not supposed to be here.
Closing his eyes, Nyym tried to shut out the sound, the rune, and the figure. When he opened them again, he heard a strange thrumming sound. All around him was a stinking miasma of gas and ash that hung in the air above. As far as he could see, the land lay shattered, the ground oozing molten rock and fire from multiple gaping wounds. Nothing green could live long in this place, not without being scorched by flames or wilting from the lack of light. This was truly the heart of desolation.
An ebon mass of tentacles erupted through the haze, descending enthusiastically toward Nyym. With nowhere to run or hide, the half-drow valiantly stood his ground, defiant in the face of death.
But the limbs never reached him. Standing between himself and the wriggling black mass was the ghostly figure he'd seen before, robed arm outstretched as though holding them at bay.
Take her and get out. You two are needed elsewhere.
That voice. Nyym knew that voice. It belonged to Aodhàn.
The half-drow spun about, only to find himself back before the occult edifice once again. The air seemed to possess a golden tinge that had not been present before. But he had no time to dwell on that now.
At the time, Nyym had assumed that the voice he had heard then belonged to the Chelaxian bouncer. Now, he wasn't so sure.
Yes, the memory surfaces. Your kind has long had an association with discord, tumult, and turmoil. Indeed, your very presence breeds disarray, and from it cruelty and misery are sown. This causes your ilk to remain as they are, for they desire power and their faith ensures the stability of their civilization, if only for the moment.
As the golden robed being spoke, the tinge in the air began to swirl, constantly changing, shifting through random multicolored hues.
But what they enact is so small in scope. You know this all too well, for you have touched upon something much more grand. And with it, you have done more to expresses the principle of a possibility unfettered by rules than many of your full-blooded kin. For without Chaos, there can be no freedom, no creativity, no art. All of existence would be shackled. There would be no movement, no novelty. Life would be locked in an unchanging stasis, much as your own kind are now by the petty intrigues and political maneuvering within their rigid hierarchies.
Twin pools of blazing liquid gold materialized both above and behind the half-drow as the robed figured continued to speak.
You have revolted against such stagnation. Know then, that your efforts are acknowledged. The Eyes of the King are fixed upon you. Go from this place with his blessing.
The voice seemed both distant and close all at the same time. Then all at once, Nyym became aware of other sounds.
Oh that better not be a Kumo...
It was Mesa. Something was going on nearby.
...Body's aching all the time..., The half-drow heard her sing-song chant as she drew out her shamisen.
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Although the nap was wonderful and left her feeling alert and less worn, a decent meal and a bath were still in dire need. Rations only did so much. Was it wrong that roasted giant spider was sounding really good right now? It’s only right since it had attacked Rohan... right...? She yelled at the spider...
Hey you! You are looking like lunch right now! You big giant knock off sack of crab legs! Your webs will make a great boil in mesh pouch!
Kyt moves 5 feet to out her into range of the spider. Flurry of blows with her temple sword, burning a Ki point for an extra attack.
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As Kytynna steps in with her temple sword and puts on a display of speed and steel, Liesel-Marie lets her bloodrage boil, steps around Miss Hanakotaba , and tries to deliver a single massive blow with the blocking greataxe, feeling like she's finally gotten the hang of the unwieldly weapon. The weapon gains a faint purplish glow about the blade as it comes through the air.
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Purple Spider: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21
Rohan: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20; grappled, poisoned
Mesa: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15
Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12
Kyt: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10
Liesel-Marie: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
Battle Music: Apocalyptica - 'Path Vol. II'
Kytynna
Although the nap was wonderful and left her feeling alert and less worn, a decent meal and a bath were still in dire need. Rations only did so much. Was it wrong that roasted giant spider was sounding really good right now? It’s only right since it had attacked Rohan... right...? She yelled at the spider...
Hey you! You are looking like lunch right now! You big giant knock off sack of crab legs! Your webs will make a great boil in mesh pouch!
The elf flowed forward, wielding her sword with both hands as she initiated her assault against the arachnid, the blade weaving an intricate pattern of steel as it sliced quickly multiple times through the carapace, spilling the spider's sticky ichor on the stone floor.
Liesel-Marie
As Kytynna stepped in with her temple sword and put on a display of speed and steel, Liesel-Marie let her bloodrage boil, then stepped around Miss Hanakotaba, putting her simultaneously between Rohan and Nyym as well as the elf and the obelisk. Once in position, she tried to deliver a single massive blow with the blocking greataxe, feeling like she'd finally gotten the hang of the unwieldy weapon. The bearded blade gained a faint purplish glow about it as it sliced through the air.
The effect was devastating, the weapon separating the abdomen from the spider's cephalothorax. Such was the force of her blow that not only did Liesel-Marie leave a divot in the cavern floor, but she nearly pulled Rohan from his feet.
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Unaware of what had transpired with his friends. Nyym blinked as he suddenly snapped out of his trance. Whatever had caused the trance had now released him. With a sudden intake of breath, reality came rushing back all at once as his knees buckled beneath his weight. Moving his arms back under him as he sought soften his fall. He could only embrace the gravity as he landed on the hard cavern floor. His heart raced as he tried to return his breathing to normal. What just happened? What was that place? He had see it before once in Aodhans room. Nyym shook his head in an effort to get a grasp on what had just happened. He looked back up at the runes to see if anything had changed. But did not let his eyes linger to long as that's what led to his vision. If vision was what you would call it.
But what they enact is so small in scope. You know this all too well, for you have touched upon something much more grand. And with it, you have done more to expresses the principle of a possibility unfettered by rules than many of your full-blooded kin. For without Chaos, there can be no freedom, no creativity, no art. All of existence would be shackled. There would be no movement, no novelty. Life would be locked in an unchanging stasis, much as your own kind are now by the petty intrigues and political maneuvering within their rigid hierarchies.
By full blooded kin he had to be referring to the Dark Elves
You have revolted against such stagnation. Know then, that your efforts are acknowledged. The Eyes of the King are fixed upon you. Go from this place with his blessing.
That must be about my rejecting their ways and following my own path. But my path before was much like that of the Dark Elvies now that I think about it. Then this new life in which I have chosen a different path. That has to be it. The eyes of the King are fixed apon me? He spoke of Chaos. But who is this king. It couldn't be the same as the kink in the previous vision. To much was different and he saw nothing of his previous life.
Nyym shook his head again to try and clear it.
It would seem I have much to think on and to consider.
Nyym let his gaze roam the area. It was only now that he saw Rohans prone form. Confusion again showed on his face....
Wha... what happened?
I hope that was not because of me..
Although struggling to breath correctly, he managed to get the short question out between breaths. One minute he saw total destruction, then the ghostly figure. Now he was free and back with his friends. But one was hurt. He had no memory of a fight save the one him and his friends just had with the Raggedy Man. Again he blinked and focused on slowing his breathing.
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Liesel-Marie's focus on the spider was complete - she only vaguely knew than another ally was within striking distance of the creature, not that Nyym was actually out of the fight. As the creature's body dissipated, she let her breathing return to normal . Her eyes are still a little wild from the adrenaline when she hears Nyym's confused question.
Turning around, she is surprised to see him on the ground. "Are you hurt, also?" Seeing no obvious wounds, she reaches down, grabs the front of his armor just below his chin, and pulls him to his feet. "There was - or seemed to be - a great spider. It bit Rohan and pulled him in close, but Kytynna's blade made short work of it. What happened to you? I didn't see you fall."