GM Rednal's Wrath of the Righteous (Inactive)

Game Master Rednal

The next morning she scratched the Chimera behind the ears before beginning her rounds. She checked in on the troops, the prisoners and finally on their new companion Soltengrebbe prior to their departure...

Ease worries among the troops about Soltengrebbe: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (14) + 17 = 31

While among the troops she did her best to talk with squad leaders to ease worries among their subordinates over the presence of the large Chimera. Hoping she had made a difference she moves to the command tent to strategy before the engagement began.

"The enemy is heavily entrenched, I suggest we go in with defense in mind. It'll drag the fight out but should minimize our initial losses. We will have our casters in reserve to prevent the enemy from bombarding our clustered troops."

Tactics - Spellbreaker
Strategy Track - Defensive +4 DV -4 OM -6 Damage

Lmao...

At first he thought Solten'grab'be was making his move for retaliation but when Rowan starts laughing he notices he isn't alone. He isn't able to hide his bemused expression at seeing the mighty Tarov being manhandled so carefully by the goat head. Though being lifted up by the Dragonhead left him feeling a pit in his stomach. The vibrations off Einherjar gave him the distinct impression it found his predicament humourous.

The next morning Julian listened to the brief in the change of tactics presented by Rowan. "Agreed, I would assume we are saving our strongest offensive measures until we close with the enemy. Change up tactics and crush them once we close in Melee correct?"

Rowan nods at Julian, looking for other voices before they headed to battle. "Nothing else to add?" She looks about, to each officer finishing with Nurah before looking to Sosiel. "Ensure those on watch here keep an eye on our supplies, last thing we need is our food or other supplies being ravaged by the enemy in our absence."

Before the army embarked on yet another brutal campaign she came before the Dawnbringers and invoked the might of Iomedae before giving a prayer. A prayer that again they would triumph and push back the forces of darkness. "Once more into the breach, once more into the greatest fight of our lives though this time we face an enemy far greater then the last we have fought so far. Know that your sacrifices are not in vain, nor were those that came before, for without sacrifice we would never have realized so much. Yet we will go farther, prepare your potions, harden your resolve and stand firm for we march this day!" She draws her sword and thrusts it skyward as she shouts. "Let us go to victory once more! Let us fight in Iomedae's name!"

"Iomedae! Iomedae! Iomedae!"

Let whoop some demon asses!

Providing airborne directions Julian directs the Paladin's ranged attacks at the entrenched defenders while simultaneously dodging said demonic defenders wrath.

Army Ranged Attack Roll vs Entrenched Schir: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21

Army hp 16/16 (? or 13/16 still?)
DV BA: 20+4 = 24 (Base: 18); OM BA: +10-4 = +6 (Base: +8) (-6 ro dmg), Ranged

Tactics - Spellbreaker
Strategy Track - Defensive +4 DV, -4 OM, -6 Damage

Important Note: Strategies are MELEE ONLY. Your opening ranged attacks do not have benefits (or penalties) from strategies. There's really only so much you can do when you're riding and firing arrows from a distance. XD

The Dawnbringers charged forward, firing arrows towards the demons even as hellish spells were shot back your way, ripping through the Dawnbringers...

Enemy Attack: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

...but not quite managing to cause any real harm to your forces. Nothing that wasn't quickly healed with a bit of hands being laid various places, at least. With the opening salvo done, though, you were close to the walls now and could start attacking in earnest.

OIC! So it was 1d20+10= 25 for the ranged right then? Nice. Not a bad opening roll too bad for the fortifications and such! xD

Morale Check +6: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19

Tactics - Spellbreaker
Strategy Track - Previously Defensive +4 DV, -4 OM, -6 Damage
Changed Strategy Track to - Cautious - Assuming Morale check is successful | DV: +2 | OM: —2 | Damage: —3 |

Melee Phase Round 2 of Army Combat - Cautious +Smite Evil vs Evl Outsiders(?): 1d20 + 10 - 2 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 10 - 2 + 4 = 29
Activate: Smite Evil In one Melee phase per battle, the army may increase its OM by 2 against an evil army. If the target army is undead or evil outsiders, the OM increases by 4 instead.

Important Note: Strategies are MELEE ONLY. Your opening ranged attacks do not have benefits (or penalties) from strategies.

She weathered the salvo of spells along with the other Dawnbringers and whispered a quiet sigh of relief for the abilities of their casters as the explosive magic detonated overhead and in more or less damaging areas of the group. Once they had closed with the enemy lines she raised her sword and gave a powerful shout of command. "Switch up tactics, move cautiously and smite the enemy in HER NAME! FOR MENDEV! FOR SARKORIS!" As she shouted her own blade started to glow with holy power before she charged and unleashed it on a Schir Defender...!

The strategy can be selected during the first melee phase - no need to make a morale check then, just to change it afterwards. ^^ As for switching, sadly, no - the battle already started, and things are based on that. Either way, I suspect the three of you will soon move to taking personal command anyway... XD

Say what you would about Paladins - in large numbers, they were good at hurting groups of demons, and wasted no time at all in hitting the demons with all the force they could muster. The results were noticeable - you could see the defenders buckling inward at four different places as your warriors fought with all the force they could muster.

Enemy Attack: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

And while the enemies were enraged at the damage they were suffering, that wasn't translating to landing many serious blows...

Add before or after Tarov's turn, Upto you Rednal. Just keeping it rolling ( ^-^)-d

Dawnbringer HP 16/16 DV 22

Tactics - Spellbreaker
Strategy Track - Cautious | DV: +2 | OM: -2 | Damage: -3

Melee Phase 4 (or 3) of Army Attack - Cautious: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 10 - 2 = 23

Julian maintained his assistance for the army, now staying skyward and warding off demonic magic with his own magical might...

Our luck can't hold out forever...

Continuously stealing Julians setups! Post before or after Tarov's post Rednal. Tarov could just post two turns worth too.

I will leave acopy and paste of the below army setup, and roll for ease of access if someone needs it. Saves all the typing!

Dawnbringer HP 16/16 DV 22

Tactics - Spellbreaker
Strategy Track - Cautious | DV: +2 | OM: -2 | Damage: -3

Channel Positive / LoH to keep up our healing as needed. Heal 3 (Equal to Army ACR) with Minus 1 to attack (Not included as full details of injuries are unknown as of this post.

Melee Phase 5 or 4 of Army Attack - Cautious: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (10) + 10 - 2 = 18

Rowan maintained the line with several other Paladin's in the hopes that the enemies lines would fold sooner rather then later. She continues to shout encouragement as the enemies attacks batter their armor but do not slow their advance. At this rate the battle was surely in their favor but she wouldn't count on it until they had take the hill completely...

I'll just go after you guys.

Tactics - Spellbreaker
Strategy Track - Cautious | DV: +2 | OM: -2 | Damage: -3

Melee Phase 5 of Army Attack - Cautious: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (7) + 10 - 2 = 15

Tarov continues to push forward with his Dawnbringer allies, the crusaders resilient in the face of the enemy.

The Dawnbringers managed another blow against the demon forces as the melee continued - but it was after that that the demons started to rally, using the walls to their advantage and carefully blocking the advance of the Paladins. Neither of the next two thrusts was able to pierce their guard, much less do damage.

Watching from the back during a rotation for rest, Irabeth frowned slightly. "We may have to get more aggressive..." she mused.

Melee Phase 3: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21
Melee Phase 4: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16
Melee Phase 5: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Even so, there was a limit to how much damage the enemy could do from cover, too - you weren't hurting them, but they weren't too successful at hurting you, either.

Dawnbringer HP 16/16 DV 22

Tactics - Spellbreaker
Strategy Track - Cautious | DV: +2 | OM: -2 | Damage: -3

Morale Check to change tactics DC 15 - Adjust to Standard(?) (Are we rolling this or is this for the NPC only?): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12

Melee Phase 6 Army Attack - Cautious: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (14) + 10 - 2 = 22

Julian hears the call but sees that the paladins are not reacting, or at least reacting in a mixed way. Irritatedly he continues to battle with the Schir having freshly returned from a rest round. He was hopeful the battle would continue thusly, even if it was hard won they would win the day!

Welcome back Tarov! Hopefully everything is going well for you!

Dawnbringer HP 16/16 DV 22

Tactics - Spellbreaker
Strategy Track - Cautious | DV: +2 | OM: -2 | Damage: -3

Channel Positive / LoH to keep up our healing as needed. Heal 3 (Equal to Army ACR-) with Minus 1 to attack (Not included as full details of injuries are unknown as of this post.

Melee Phase 7 of Army Attack - Cautious: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (6) + 10 - 2 = 14

The orders fell flat once more, the Paladin's trudged on, slugging it out with the Demons and prolonging the siege.

Resting with Irabeth Rowan looked on grimly at her battered mail, relaying the confusion among the Dawnbringers as the commands continued to fall flat. "This is going to be a long battle. Perhaps you should relay it personally eh?" She chuckles lightly as another group comes to rest. Iomedae is with us yet, we are doing well but we cannot become overconfident in the faces of our foe. These are not the ragged cultists or brainwashed slaves of a shattered realm. These are creatures that call themselves Masters. These are the true foe and they know War.

I'm not sure Rowan's in agreement on being less cautious. XD Going one step up/down on the Strategy Track is automatically successful - more than that requires a check from whoever's currently leading the army.

Also for DV... Base of 18. +2 for Battlefield Advantage, +4 for Spellbreaker, +2 for Cautious. Total: 26.

Melee Phase 6: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
Melee Phase 7: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25

The Dawnbringers managed to scrape the enemy army a bit - and that was when the counterattacks started happening in earnest, as the demons made full use of their fortifications to trip, stab, and generally mess with as many warriors as they could. The bad news for them? You were still doing quite well at disrupting their spells... if they were going to hurt you at all, it was clear that they'd need to stop being so defensive and go all-out. And it seemed like that was exactly what they were getting ready to do... options included remaining on the defensive and trying to absorb the blows, or shifting to offense yourselves to try and take them out before they could crack you open.

Pushing on! Apologies for messing it up tactics wise, Julian went to standard and I slowed us down. However I will get us back to Standard at Least! Tarov roll when you can bud if not Julian and I will keep going with at least two posts a day so this doesn't stall. Besides I am particularly enjoying the battle image. Like Kingdom of Heaven but more LotR's. ;3

Army HP 16/16 Army DV 18+2+4 = 24 (Spellbreaker Battlefield Advantage)

Tactics - Spellbreaker
Strategy Track - Standard +0

Melee Phase 8 of Army Attack - Cautious: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29

[smaller]"Too Victory! In Her name we shall prevail!"[/smaler] Rowan, freshly returned from a rest hoisted the Dawnbringers standard and waved for the command to change up tactics. The Paladins fell back into normal routines and unleashed their normal strenght on the demonic horde before them, there power no longer restrained by caution. However they were not going to become reckless in the face of their hated foes, at least not yet.

Rowan led a squad of heavily armed and armored Paldin's into the fray personal, making a straight beeline for the enemy command in an attempt to end the conflict once and for all...

No need. ^^

Melee = Last phase: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27

Finally, the Dawnbringers were able to break through the fortifications - just in time to run head-long into the traps the demons had set up. (3 damage.) That was all they had time for, though, as the holy warriors continued to move forward and broke their foe, trampling the demons underfoot as the few survivors teleported away. Their roar of victory shook the ground beneath you, and it was only minutes after they'd started looking around that Anevia came running back to you.

"We found the prisoners!" she said, looking more than a little excited. Taken all together, there were around two hundred of them - mostly men, soldiers who'd been taken during various fights, but there were a number of women and a few children as well. Fortunately, the area had also been stockpiled with supplies - enough food and water to keep all the prisoners fed for quite a long time.

(As Aron noted, the demons were generally lazy about things like this - they were the type to bring in supplies in one big movement so they wouldn't have to constantly jump around later.)

After being queried, several of the prisoners gave directions to something else on your agenda - a small stone building on the inner side of the area that a few crowbars soon cracked open. Inside was one more prisoner, chained up on the wall - she looked surprisingly frail, actually, and looked at you for a moment before closing her eyes.

"Father of Creation, thank you for shielding your servant from the forces of evil." she said, quietly but devoutly. She opened her eyes again a moment later. "Pardon me. This will only take a moment." Her hands twisted around to grip the chains binding them - and after a few seconds, cracks appeared in the metal. The bonds shattered entirely a moment later, and she staggered forward, a little bit wobbly as she got her feet under her. "...I think I'll have to fix those later, or at least repurpose the metal..." she coughed slightly, then curtsied. "Thank you for helping me. My name is Meiyun, and I'm a humble servant of Torag." She glanced towards Tarov, clearly welcoming his presence.

So army went down to 13/16, noted.

She raised their standard as their roar of victory shook the earth, she hardly noticed the broken off weapon in her shoulder and continued to ignore it as the report from Anevia came in. She looks in on the former prisoners and speaks to the Victorious Dawnbringers and fellow officers as she made simple requests. Two hundred souls recovered. Almost too good to be true, but if they can fight we can bolster our fighting power for the final battles ahead. Iomedae Be praised, honor to the Dawnbringers who won the day.

"Get the supplies and these prisoners back to our main camp right away. Any who are able are to be armed and readied for battle. Any complaints are to be forwarded to Irabeth and myself to handle but I expect any who can fight to fight until Drezen falls or we do."

She rejoins her companions outside the building with her weapons sheathed as they broke the seal.

Seeing the chains on the frail prisoner she started to slide the adamantine mace, but she couldn't hide her look of surprise as the chains shattered. She approaches Meiyun and nods. "Please do not trouble yourself with curtsies when you are in such a state." She gives Meiyun her arm to lean on before adding motioning with her free hand. "I am Rowan, that is Julian and This is Tarov the Stalwart." With this close of contact she was able to heal the girl, removing any fatigue she could be feeling with a wave of positive energy suffusing Meiyun's being temporarily.

Mercy: Remove Fatigue, Heal Meiyun: 2d6 + 1 ⇒ (6, 3) + 1 = 10

"Are you strong enough to make the journey or shall I get a stretcher for you?"

Julina nods as he is introduced. "Julian Fey, Alchemist. I have some tonics that can heal injuries if you need Lady Meiyun." He flutters his wings as he looks about a hand on his sword. "I do suggest we get back to camp then. Some of Schir survivors could return to avenge their sore defeat."

Back at camp

Julian looks for Nurah, in high spirits from their recent victory.

"My Father didn't forge me so poorly that I can't walk a little ways when I need to." Meiyun answered, though she did look grateful for the merciful touch. "Actually, they didn't treat me too badly - I managed to convince them that I wouldn't be useful at all if they hurt me, so they just left me alo-" she paused as she stepped outside and saw your forces hard at work, making sure the area was actually clear. "...How big is this counterattack?" she asked. "Wait, no, I'll figure it out."

Back at the camp, Nurah was busy jotting down what looked like verses. More than half a dozen had already been crossed out, and she was clearly hard at work trying to find the best way to chronicle what was going on. "No, no..." the little halfling muttered. "Can't just focus on glorious victories, gotta remember what the men feel..." she didn't seem to be noticing anything happening around her.

Julian peeks around Nurah, announcing his presence by getting into her peripheral vision as he kneels down. "Writing troubles Nurah?"

"My Father didn't forge me so poorly that I can't walk a little ways when I need to." Meiyun answered, though she did look grateful for the merciful touch. "Actually, they didn't treat me too badly - I managed to convince them that I wouldn't be useful at all if they hurt me, so they just left me alo-" she paused as she stepped outside and saw your forces hard at work, making sure the area was actually clear. "...How big is this counterattack?" she asked. "Wait, no, I'll figure it out."

Rowan smiles at her surprise and nods. "Just wait until you meet our new friend Soltengrebbe, it speaks draconic but I am sure it will make an adequate protector while you are with us." She walks with Meiyun and introduces her to several of the fighting men and woman, whose names Rowan has burned into her mind painstakingly over the course of the long march. "These are the Dawnbringers, a fighting force from Kenebras in Mendev."

Once they were regrouped back at camp she checks in on the prisoners, their supplies and ensures nothing went wrong in their absence with Sosiel. Before she calls her officers together for a debrief she introduces Meiyun to Soltengrebbe. Approaching the mighty chimera and caressing its heads affectionately. "This is Soltengrebbe . A new friend. Among The Dawnbringers and those you met so far are what comprises the 5th Crusade. Through their abilities we have made it so far to Drezen. Feel free to ask any questions as you come upon them but I am hopeful you will remain with us and join our Crusade Meiyun."

She makes sure to introduce Soltengrebbe to Meiyun speaking in its tongue. "Friend Meiyun, Protect her." She rubs his feline head gently hoping it understands her meaning and if not in time she would try and teach the great creature.

<"Friend."> the great creature repeated, sniffing Meiyun a few times and extending its draconic head while the feline one gently rubbed against Rowan, seeming to bask in the attention.

<"Not the friend I was expecting to have... but then, they rarely are."> Meiyun observed in the same language, apparently having no difficulties understanding or speaking it. Soltengrebbe looked a bit more interested, ears flicking forward before the entire head turned to the side as she scratched it. It didn't seem like there would be any problems between the two of them.

Nurah, meanwhile, looked up at Julian as he approached. "Aye, verse is never as easy as we make it look." she said, snorting slightly. "For every minute of performance, there's probably a few hours of practice and planning."

[B][smaller]"I can certainly agree. Dancing isn't easy either but writing something like that...Julian smiles thinking over the verses he could see and scrstches his head as he tries to recall something useful for Nurah...

K- History - known epics for great conflicts in recent history...: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11

Perform Dance: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14

His knowledge of historical epics was failing him as much as his mental comparison of dancing to this verbal writing. The whole time he remained quiet as to not disturb Nurah's diligent focus. He finally drew upon his intelligence and combined with his mythical nature he hoped he could come up with the smallest way to help Nurah...

Intelligence + Mythical Surge for some insight: 1d20 + 7 + 1d6 ⇒ (19) + 7 + (3) = 29

Sitting there relaxing helped him to calm his emotions, to be thinking instead of fighting was a small relief. Surviving again gave him hope for their continuing victories. He smiled as Nurah worked so diligently, she was determined and that was a great quality in her.

He closes his eyes as he leans over while sitting, his cloak draped lightly across one shoulder as his worn studded leather armor gives a familiar creak. Stars dance across the dark cloak swirling while mimicing the sky above him as he sits there eyes closed leaning on a small crate deep in thought.

She had a bandage across her shoulder and ignored the pain as she stroked the Chimera's head. Her voice was strong and her confidence soaring after their latest victory, with Meiyun here things were falling into place but she would not take it for granted. The war is far from over. "Excellent." She continues to stroke behind the feline heads ears as she speaks. "They joined us yesterday, albeit I was too foolish to tell at first their condition. Those who lie in Drezen did terrible things to this creature and I fear it may still take time for it to trust fully though..." As she is bumped by the feline head she smiles broadly. "This is a great start. BE aware, they may pick you up and choose to sleep with you, though I will say they are quite comforting to have close. They are very strong"

While still giving Soltengrebbe attention she gives Meiyun more details as to their camp setup in dwarven. <:"A number of prisoners are here from our various skirmishes, I am hoping to win them over once Drezen falls. The more willing hands the better, granted trust will take time to build. Though I must ask...":> She looks at Meiyun levelly, curiosity peaked. <:How did you come to be captured by the enemy Meiyun?:>

Meiyun grimaced slightly - and responded in the same language. <"After I left the Arcanamirium, I was heading north with a caravan, hoping to join Queen Galfrey's forces and start producing things for her soldiers."> she explained, continuing to give some attention to the massive chimera. The goat head butted in by Rowan a moment later, apparently not wanting to be left out. <"Unfortunately, the whole caravan was attacked by demons before we could arrive in Nerosyan, and they took the survivors prisoner. After that, well, here I am."> her fingers twitched slightly. <"I don't suppose you have access to a forge, or at least some good tools? I'm itching to start making things again. Been too long since I held a hammer.">

Rowan looks apologetic just before the goat head butts in and she gives it a smile as she ruffles its ears playfully. <"I see. If I brought something up unpleasant I apologize. I was informed of your presence prior to our storming the Schir. As for tools. Yes, I am an armorer."> She pets both of the massive heads, hugging them tightly before gently parting from them. She moves to the side of the tent uncovering her artisan tool set. <:You are welcome to these and I will scour the camp for better materials today. I am sure we have found something of use to you...:> She steps over to where she had her documents, perusing them as she thought about the captured supplies thus far...

K-Local - Army camp - Knowledge of Known Supplies, tools and such to outfit Meiyun as needed.: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15

Finding what she could she raises her head, pausing as she was conflicted as to what else she planned on saying to Meiyun. Settling on Kariel's message. <"I have been told to relay to you that we have found the forge you are looking for and we shall provide the supplies you need so you can aid in crafting tools for the crusade. I believe that what we are looking for lies within Drezen somewhere, which is another crucial point of the siege. So I hope you will stay with us.">

Seeing he wasn't adding much to Nurah's writings he stands and dusts himself off. "If I you need help, aside from your writing, let me know. I know that whatever you come up with will be great, just... Do me a favor. Don't put my name in it." He gives her a smile and waves as he heads off waving over his shoulder at her before placing his hand on EInherjar and wandering around camp. He was somewhat aimless now that the fight was over and not quite in the mood for alchemical builds.

Perception check - Looking over food supplies: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (20) + 12 = 32

Perception check - Looking over Wagons and gear: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (9) + 12 = 21

Perception check - Looking over regular supplies (Crafting and the like): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (13) + 12 = 25

He checks over everything to ensure the enemy hadn't decided to mess with their camp in their absence. Merely a precaution during his bored wandering...

At Rowan's last words, Meiyun's face froze slightly - and then a small smile appeared. <"I see, I see, so that's it!"> she said quietly, suddenly sounding like she understood far better. She gripped her holy symbol a moment later, and it began to glow with a warm, steady light. (How she'd kept it while kidnapped by demons? Hiding it, apparently.)

You have unlocked [Meiyun's Forge], and can invest resources in it at your discretion. See the campaign tab for more details.

Meanwhile, everything in the camp seemed like it was in order - or at least not in too much disorder. Military camps, even in well-regimented units, were always somewhat chaotic places once people had been there for long. More importantly, now that you'd secured the prisoners and defeated all of the main armies, it was time to figure out how you were actually going to get to the citadel - try and seize the bridge before the enemy could destroy it, or take the extra time to build the ramps that would let the army cross.

Seeing the change come over Meiyun and the softly glowing light filled Rowan with renewed confidence, banishing away her shaken resolve as she approached Meiyun and set her hand on the other womans shoulder. "I will not lie to you, I expect you to give voice if you feel you must. Never hesitate to confront me or stop anyone from taking the wrong path. I will never abandon you, even in the face of death. Too much rides on us, from lowest soldier to veteran general." She adds the last part in a quiet way reaffirming it for herself as well. "... And If ever you feel your resolve failing, come speak with me and do not wallow in despair alone."

With that she lets go of Meiyun's shoulder. "I need you to research how long it will take to build ramps for us to cross the dry riverbed. We will get you whatever you need if we fail to take Ahari bridge..." She could not disregard the possibility of failure, nor would she sacrifice the army in a brazen attack. This will require subtlety...

She has a Paladin gather her fellow officers to plan the next stage of their assault. Once everyone was gathered she thanked them for their promptness and pointed to the map. "The next stage is to secure Ahari bridge. As reported before the enemy is prepared to destroy it to slow our advance. The army will remain on standby, resting and healing. We will proceed with a small task force to secure the bridge from its defenders.Starting with disabling whatever mechanism they have in place to destroy the bridge. Without that they will have a harder time destroying it, if we can go in with two small forces perhaps we can take down the defenders and the mechanism simultaneously."

After spending time looking over parts of the camp for inconsistencies or bad signs of sabotage or subterfuge at work. He is contact by a runner and joins the other officers in the command tent. Nodding to the mighty Chimera and smiling at Meiyun before getting down to business.

"I can prepare multiple extracts of flight for those disabling the mechanism and other boosters to maximize their abilities." He thinks over the bridge and looks to Rowan. "Before nightfall I will take an aerial recon of the bridge and hopefully I can see something useful for our assault."

"Excellent Julian." Rowan responds as again the Alchemist steps up to the challenge, she looks to her other officers then, Namely Aron, Nurah and Anevia. "Have we had a chance to see what is in place to bring the bridge down?"

Does Drezen still have a population not involved with the fighting Rednnal? I understand if they are not exactly 'welcoming' the new conquerors...

After their response she looks to Irabeth and Sosiel. "We've been pushing hard, how is the morale among the men so far? I am sure a day of rest will be a welcomed rest for some. Also can we arm the freed prisoners to make another detachment? Lastly, we need to look into securing the districts we've taken, or at least monitor them and actively provide aid to those in need. Albeit cautiously, we don't know if shifters have mingled with the population."

After their response she looks to Aravashnial and Meiyun then "Keep us informed on your needs and we will do our best to provide what you need." Looking to everyone equally she states plainly. "We will need to support these two as much as possible. Meiyun is very adept with her forge so lets not waste her skills."

There is no real population left in the city, beyond the armies defending it.

At Rowan's request, Meiyun moved out to check on the riverbed - accompanied by several guards to ensure her safe return. It wasn't long before she came back with a report, noting that it would take 1d4 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 1 = 3 days for the army to build the structures needed to cross if the bridge itself went down.

On the bright side, Sosiel reported that morale among the troops remained high, thanks in no small part to the way they'd been busy stomping all over the armies defending this place. Several days of construction work would probably lower morale at least a little, though.

She considered what was reported to her and nodded. "Thank you Meiyun and Sosiel." She looks to their map and thinks for a moment before adding. "If the bridges drop, begin work on the alternative crossing. In the mean time get the supplies located and ready so we can begin immediately. However until then allow the men some recovery time. I hope to take the bridge by midday tomorrow. We will begin our tactical strike in the early morning, so we need to find skilled volunteers who are willing to make the strike with us."

She looks to her fellow officers then, looking at each of them in turn as she spoke. "I am loath to commit any of you to this strike, only because if the bridges fall the chance of surviving it are low. So aside from the volunteers we three will go to storm the Bridge as well. Know that if that grim outcome is realized I'd rather you be here to continue the Crusade. We cannot allow anything to stop our momentum now." Her words make it absolutely clear she will not commit others to a task she herself would not do as well. I cannot sacrifice all our strength on a single strike, even if it meant greater success. Without the command unit the Dawnbringers could fold. That Cannot happen.

"Any other questions or information needing to be shared?"

"The big threat is the things under the bridge." Anevia said, tapping the map. "If they're left alone, they'll pull on the supports until it collapses. The tieflings up above are mostly guards, though, and probably have ranged attacks. If securing the bridge is our priority, we might have to endure their attacks until the aurochs are down and the bridge is unlikely to collapse. We definitely don't want anyone on that thing if it falls."

I believe this is the first mention of what was under the bridge. :3

"I see yor point Anevia. So I will make extracts that allow temporary flight. Should be long enough for engaging the creatures." If they see us going for their creatures its likely they could abandon the bridge just to stall our attack. He didn't give voice to it, hoping that the Guardsmen were greater fools instead, too afraid to abandon their post and risk punishment. He looked to Rowan. "One team, one strike area, we take the extracts when we get close to the river bed and swoop down there and take out the creatures. I have enough spells to devastate them from range before we engage in melee hopefully. So we focus on speed and heavy hits."

I will change up my current allotment of extracts and update my sheet tonight.

With the addition of Anevia's knowledge she nods to Julian. "Makes sense Julian, focus your extracts and spells to an offensive nature in the morning. Once we deal with the creatures under the bridge. We will try and capture the guards."

Sounds like we've got a plan, then. ^^ Assume you're getting the chance to rest, then - let me know when you're ready to begin.

That morning Julian was up far earlier then normal. Brewing a full assortment of extracts and readying himself for battle. However when he went to wake Tarov he found his dwarven companion was sick, too sick to fight. Leaving him with a sleeping tonic he found Rowan and got together to plan their strategy.

"Alright..." He points towards the bridge and nods to Rowan. "I suggest we head for a spot close to the bridge and then down the extracts followed by using spells to move in on them without being seen. The Flight extracts will ensure we leave no tracks and we move much, much quicker. Using our stealth and flight we will go down into the river and take down the creatures. Using spells at range to attack them quicker before moving in with melee. If we are lucky our first strike should kill or disable some of the creatures, also with the guards up above I suggest we split up and take the creatures separately to avoid being caught in by thrown alchemical weapons.."

She nods at Julian's suggestion. "Let's go then, find cover and begin the strike." She adjusts her weapons and checks her armor before they head out.

She tried not to pick too open a route on their way towards the Ahari Bridge, choosing instead to move through places that provided cover so as not to be noticed to early by the bridge guards...

Wasn't planning on sickness, but... *Rolls with it*

Tarov's condition seemed odd - but there was little time to be lost, and at least for now, he had to be back at the camp as Julian and Rowan darted forward, extracts granting flight and allowing them to shoot over the ledge and down towards the bottom. Unfortunately, there wasn't a whole lot of stealth you could do when you were flying through the air... and the creatures let out roars as they saw you. One auroch was tied to each pillar under the bridge - and the supports had obviously been weakened over time.

Init (Enemies): 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7
Init (Julian): 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (12) + 11 = 23
Init (Rowan): 1d20 ⇒ 9

The good news? You go first! You're coming up from the south side on the new map. Remember your flight speed.

Lol was plaining on 7 mins of flight 7 mins of invisibility and other stuff but as you said above! Rolls with it! XD

So we are approaching on the left side of the map? Or from the middle of it? Just wondering for total movement. Thanks! ;3

Extracts given to Rowan- Bulls Strength, Shield, extra flight potion.

As the enemy spotted them approaching he nodded to Rowan. "Splitting off when we get under the bridge. Focus on one target initially!" With a flutter of wings he spins off heading to the left side of the bridge. A blur of demonic wings and feathers.

MA: 60ft fly speed should be enough to reach the cliff edge, Draw Einherjar!
SW: Fleet Charge -1 Power +2 Bonus, Bypass Damage Reduction
FA: Amazing Initiative -1 Power +one Standard Action

Before I get to the rest of the actions I need to know if I made it to the cliff edge. Also...

Perception - What is there to see under the bridge? is there a way to detach the Aurochs from the bridge?: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (8) + 12 = 20

Pushing on!

FA: Black Blade Strike +2 to Damage for 1 min!
Fleet Charge Attack +2 Bonus +bypass DR: 1d20 + 15 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 15 + 2 = 26
Regular SA Attack with Scimitar: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (17) + 15 = 32

Damage Total - Slashing: 2d6 + 22 + 4 ⇒ (2, 6) + 22 + 4 = 34

With Einherjar in hand Julian quickly assessed the situation before asking his blade to aid him. Einherjar's fine blade took on a razorsharpness as it thrummed with power. Julian then used his mythic power to hurl himself down towards where the creature was attached to the bridge. He came out it with two powerful slashes from Einherjar!

35ft move -1 Arcana point to move 40ft to get over river edge.
1 MP for Amazing Initiative +1 SA

25% SCF - Casting Flex Armor: 1d100 ⇒ 78
Extra-SA: Composite Longbow: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23

Longbow Comp +2 Dmg: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

Rowan flew in alongside Julian, casting a spell to make her armor less restrictive on her casting before drawing her bow just as the Tiefling burst ahead of her and engaged the first of the creatures alone. She nocked an arrow and launched it at the same target from afar...

Whoops so movement would have been 60ft for first move action which by the map I should have plenty to reach the cliff edge of the dried out river.

Fleet Charge and descending would double my speed to 120ft unless the river is deeper then that I assumed he reached the first opponent. ^^;

You're approaching from the south side - whichever part of it you want. ^^

The aurochs were chained quite thoroughly to the pillars - there was no simple detachment mechanism. As your raid began, Julian spun through the air, taking the head of one of the Aurochs right off. There was a loud cry from above a moment later - and the other three started pulling.

Strength: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21
Strength: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19
Strength: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19

The pillars shook slightly, though they weren't totally shattered - yet, at least. From up on the bridge, a tiny red pellet shot down from the fingers of one of the tieflings, blossoming into a massive sphere of fire as it reached Julian's location.

Reflex for half: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (12) + 13 = 25 Yup.
Fire Damage: 8d6 ⇒ (6, 6, 3, 2, 5, 2, 3, 2) = 29 Halved to 14, resist 5, total 9 damage.

A hail of crossbow bolts followed directly behind the fireball spell as the other guards on the bridge focused on their leader's target.

Crossbow (Julian): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7
Crossbow (Julian): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5
Crossbow (Julian): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11
Crossbow (Julian): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9
Crossbow (Julian): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6
Crossbow (Julian): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7
Crossbow (Julian): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (19) + 3 = 22
Crossbow (Julian): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 = 19

The fact that none hit - though one came close - seemed to be a slightly worrying sign for them...

Meanwhile, on the other side, Rowan was able to change her target at the last moment (given that Julian's was already down) and hit the other close auroch instead. Pretty good aim for a last-moment snap shot. The creatures were fairly tough, though, and it would take quite a few arrows to bring them down.

1 MP for Fleet Charge + 1 MP for Amazing Initiative

Only about 40-50ft between the creatures I think right? With flight I get 60ft moves so fleet should be enough to reach the next, let me know if it isn't. Thanks!

Fleet Charge 60ft move to next Target
Fleet Charge Attack +2 Bonus +bypass DR: 1d20 + 15 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 15 + 2 = 26
Extra SA Attack with Scimitar: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (15) + 15 = 30

Damage Total for both hits - Slashing Dam: 2d6 + 22 + 4 ⇒ (1, 6) + 22 + 4 = 33

The crossbow bolts fell around him, he spun and waved his wings wildly as he deflected them and glared at the guards in anger before he was envelped by a ball of flame. Bursting from its center Julian was a blur once more. Undaunted by the injury he had sustained and Flying towards the next creature and unleashing two powerful and quick slashes with Einherjar to kill it as well. "Not today!" His mythic power burned through his veins, spurring him onward to move faster, FASTER and EVEN FASTER!

His strikes were still echoing in the eyes of his foes as his hands came together and he drifted back. "Fireball!" He aimed his hand to a place between the creatures, hoping to catch them on the edges of the blast and avoid damaging the pillars...

Move under the bridge, just outside the blast radius of the Fireball.

Fireball Damage 20ft Radius Reflex DC 20: 7d6 + 10 ⇒ (6, 5, 2, 6, 6, 4, 4) + 10 = 43

If there isn't a way to catch them in the blast then he will focus the Fireball on one instead.

Temp Ac - 28/18/21
Move in closer 5 ft
-1 MP for Amazing Initiative Additional SA
Swift Action - Activate Smite Evil!
Use 2 Holy arrows (o remaining) 1 normal arrow

Composite Long Bow +Holy Arrow+Smite: 1d20 + 11 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 11 + 7 + 5 = 31
Composite Long Bow +Holy Arrow+Smite: 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 11 + 2 + 5 = 31
Additional SA: Composite Long Bow +Smite: 1d20 + 11 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 11 + 7 + 5 = 29

Piercing all
Holy Arrow +1 +smite: 1d8 + 2 + 1 + 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 2 + 1 + (1, 6) + 5 = 17
Holy Arrow +1 +smite: 1d8 + 2 + 1 + 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 2 + 1 + (4, 5) + 5 = 19
Normal Arrow +smite: 1d8 + 2 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 2 + 5 = 11

Total Damage = 47

Seeing the creatures strain against the bridge supports elicits an angry defiant shout from Rowan who draws upon her bow again as shemoves to an open area to get the most optimal shots. Her celestial words sung as she drew back on her bow once more. <"We have come too far to be stopped now! IN HER NAME I SMITE THEE!"> She calls upon the might of the Inheritor in her hour of need to smite the creature before her.

She used the last of her holy arrows, launching shot after shot with divinely inspired accuracy. Having no doubt in her mind these creatures were tainted beasts, better off dead then living in the hope that their tainted spirits could move on to kinder planes...

Another auroch fell as Julian lashed out, followed by a burst of flame that managed to envelop three of the cultists.

Reflex: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25
Reflex: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11
Reflex: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 24

Where are you getting that +10 to damage, Julian? Despite certain similarities, fireballs are not alchemist bombs...

Meanwhile, Rowan's arrows plunged into her own target, and together they were enough to fell the beast as it strained against the stone. That left just one more by the pillars...

Strength: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (9) + 6 = 15

...and it was unable to break free. The tieflings weren't complete fools - evil, yes, but not foolish, and withdrew their weapons before running towards the far side of the bridge. There was no reason to fight to the death to hold onto an obviously-doomed location... and as far above you as they were, they'd be well out of range by the time you could actually get up to attack. Dispatching the last of the aurochs, now that it was unguarded, was a simple enough matter - and the bridge was yours.