Talanor, the Bright Tower

Game Master Valjoen_KC

Current Date: 8th of Dasyris, 7995 E.C.

Current Battle Map

Arrington's Map

Campaign Spreadsheet

Cast of Characters

Tacal's Stats


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Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

To Garidan a little bit later

It sounds like zealous ramblings concerning their cannibal spirit. Though it has been clear to me for some time that the great spirits of death and pestilence, foreknew the Hazard's misstep. This level of aggression and power would be impossible without planning.


Male Half-Orc Druid 8/Cleric 1 | HP: 116/116 l AC: 26 (30 with buffs, 32 vs the first 3 attacks per round) /T: 12/FF: 24 l Fort: +15*, Ref: +5*, W: +14* l Init: +0 l Per: +15; Low-light vision l Movement: 30 *Hardy: Gain +2 racial bonus on saving throws against poison, spells, and spell-like abilities *Familiar:51/51

With the battle over, Truk'tosh is left to consider the implications of the divine power he touched.

'He was here with us today' he observes aloud with Morgrym. 'Your patron found us worthy. Do you believe he will visit us again if we called?'

Were there any lasting effects from whatever was happening with Truk'tosh?


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Addendum to Niyut's warning after she does her looting

"Oh, I think three injured gnolls entered the far western tower. Have your troops found them yet?"


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Niyut bends over the pile of gnoll corpses and casts extract essence on a bow from the elite rangers. She licked her ruby lips at the thought of the ethereal energy stored within the bows that she would soon free for her consumption. The silver tendrils of magic extruded from her finger tips and wrapped around the closest longbow. She watched as the blackened bow pulsated and a fiery energy coalesced in front of her. A bright yellow light opened in the air above her. Like a crack in glass vial, the light fractured around the oracle and absorbed the essence. It was gone. Pain streaked through her limbs and into her gut as though a meal was stolen from within her grasp and she let out an audible gasp. The nearby soldiers who still carried the bodies of the gnolls toward the pyre, stopped and looked around. Although they could not see the oracle, clearly they felt the discharge of magic and saw the flashes of lights that resulted.

@Niyut - I have your Spellcraft at 22; 24 to identify magic items. So, taking 10 only nets you a 32. That is insufficient to extract the essence from the bows. 25 of the magical bows were recovered. I'll say that you failed on the first bow and realized that you need to impart all of your strength to extract them. You may elect to try on the other 24 bows, but it will not be a subtle endeavor. I'll roll the spellcraft checks if you want to try.

@Truk - No lingering effects. Just a bit a divine intervention to hurl you toward the giant. I was looking for a moment to have Mylesar grant you a combat bonus/advantage... you gave us a great one!

@All - You've got 5 minutes of game time to take actions before the conversation between Niyut and Foramdar.

Later...

After speaking with Niyut, Foramdar ponders his choices. Turning to his soldiers, he speaks with a commanding voice. "Anskár, I'm promoting you to 1st Lieutenant of the Guard. Take horses and three men. Send word to the priests at the Circle to make haste with the evacuation. Report to the King and the Hazard. Tell them of the red gnoll and the coming of the giants of ice. I will keep the men for a final stand. May we meet again in Calladrym's fabled halls!". With that, the Captain turns and begins ordering the men to move as much of the fallen tower stones into the river to slow the flow of water. He also sends several archers and two soldiers south to look for any gnolls that may have slipped past them in the battle. Then, he pulls out a horn from under his cloak and lets out three loud bellows out toward the northern battlefield.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

During the Looting:

While Niyut is invisibly and surreptitiously tries to disenchant or abscond with the gathered bows before they are lit on fire, the Life Essences begin to react. The shadowy flaming essence harvested from the Hill Giant zips off into the endless night. She knows not where. For a moment, she ponders the mystery of why the essences gathered by her and Malthazir seem to attune to those in their small group.

Are there some invisible bond that connects us together? What could it be? I'm sure it cannot be simply that we survived the Storm. The elven woman also survived and yet there are not essences we gather that search her out.

Her musing is interrupted by the Life Essence of the Cliff Giant merging with her body and spirit. In a heartbeat, new knowledge unlocks in her mind. First, the tongue of the Giants. Second, her understanding of the worlds of flesh and spirit expands to a startling degree.

"oh," she whispers to herself. oh, oh . . .

1 Skill Point in to Linguistics to get Giant. 7 Skill points into Knowledge: Planes.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Huh. . . . After absorbing the Life Essence of the Cliff Giant, her take 10 would be 33. However, I'm guessing she would need more than that. What's the caster level on these bows? "You can extract any essences from a magical item (non-consumable) by beating a Spellcraft check that is equal to 15 + CL" The caster level would need to be 19-20 if they are curios. Are they wonders?

Niyut sucks her fingers in pained shock as they are singed in the small backlash. Using Ventriloquism still remaining from her wand, Niyut creates the sound the pads of gnoll paws running off away from the pyre with a small yip to give her time to do what she needs to do.

Bluff: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (8) + 18 = 26

What are these bows?

Spell Craft: : 1d20 + 25 ⇒ (12) + 25 = 37

Does it ruin that bow that she tried to extract?

Working quickly but still surprised, Niyut gathers the remaining bows into her rob leaving illusions to be claimed by the pyre's fire.

I may need to work with Malthazir on this task.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Before Foramdar turns away, Niyut reaches out and grasps his arm.

"Twice my magic has saved you, horse lord. Please let my words save you one last time. I beg that you do not spend your life and the lives of your people guarding a wall that will hold no giant back, who flows as one with the Great River. Your people still need you. I have heard that 300,000 survived the Storm. They still live. They still breath. They can be defended."

She flings her other arm towards the ruined tower. "These stones have fallen. They do not breath. They cannot be defended. I have seen in dreams that only one in ten of my village survived the Storm. But for them and for these others, I have sworn to live. Death will not take me nor will it take them. I will not allow it. I live for them. It is much harder than dying. I beg you, man. Live for your people! Do not let Death win. He has won enough."

Hopefully, her impassioned plea will change his mind.


HP 56/98 Panache 6/7 Stamina 4/10 | AC 28/18/20); 26/18/18 w/composite bow | energy resist: 2 negative, 5 fire | CMD 30 | Fort +6 Ref +13 Will +5 | Per +16, Darkvision 60 ft. | Init +7 (+9 w/swashbuckler initiative);
Class and Skills:
Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8/Fighter (Lore Warden) 2 | Acro +20, Bluff +10 Climb +8, Inti +16, Stea +15
Combat:
30 ft. (30 ft.) | Melee +19/+14 (+21/+16 vs. undead) (+2 bane rapier) Ranged +15 (dagger) Ranged +16/+11 (mwk composite shortbow) CMB +12; weapon cord attached: Yes (rapier)

Garidan considers Niyut's thoughts on the gnoll's final words with a slight frown. Loathe though he is to admit it, it seems increasingly likely that Baerwynnd isn't the sole, or even majority, bearer of responsibility for the disaster that has befallen the world. It's also very possible that any of the Hazards might well have trigged this event in their own works, but been far less capable of bringing it under any sort of control at all, as Baerwynnd had precariously managed.

Any further thoughts in the matter are shelved by the Captain's words, and Garidan quickly joins his companion in trying to sway the man from his sacrificial path. "She's right, Captain. This world has desperate need of leaders with your experience and judgement now, both on the battlefield and off of it too, and your obvious decency isn't an asset to be wasted either. Whatever time you could buy defending the broken walls of a city that's already lost pales in comparison to the good works you could do among the survivors later." Looking around for a moment to ensure that there aren't any other ears listening too closely to his words, the swashbuckler steps closer to the soldier before continuing. "With all due respect to your liege, and further begging your pardon if my words offend, but he doesn't strike me as the sort that'll let anyone forget he's a king. The problem is, he's a king of nothing but a dying city and a horde of refugees now, and it's unlikely that any other organized group of survivors, such as Eastgate's remaining dwarves, will accept that sort of attitude any longer. He will undoubtedly have many clamoring to put their advice in his ears on how to deal with that, but will that advice actually be what he needs? Who can say, but I do know that your death here in some empty final stand that ultimately garners little of value will certainly cost him a source of sound counsel."

Having said his piece on the matter, Garidan steps back from Foramdar and gestures to the breach. "Of course, it's ultimately up to you to decide where your duty lies, and if you believe it to be here? Then I'll at least wish you whatever luck and aid the Ealintaine can bestow upon you."


HP 56/98 Panache 6/7 Stamina 4/10 | AC 28/18/20); 26/18/18 w/composite bow | energy resist: 2 negative, 5 fire | CMD 30 | Fort +6 Ref +13 Will +5 | Per +16, Darkvision 60 ft. | Init +7 (+9 w/swashbuckler initiative);
Class and Skills:
Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8/Fighter (Lore Warden) 2 | Acro +20, Bluff +10 Climb +8, Inti +16, Stea +15
Combat:
30 ft. (30 ft.) | Melee +19/+14 (+21/+16 vs. undead) (+2 bane rapier) Ranged +15 (dagger) Ranged +16/+11 (mwk composite shortbow) CMB +12; weapon cord attached: Yes (rapier)

Upon gaining his new life essence:

The unexpected appearance of an essence, gleaming and possessing the particular feel that Garidan has come to associate with the rarest sort of essences that can be found, has the swashbuckler blinking in surprise. He looks around curiously in an attempt to discern the source, but can't make anything out. He wonders for a moment if Niyut is aware of this, and wonders again how she would react if she isn't; he's made note more than once of her increasingly peculiar behavior when essences are involved, and reminds himself to raise the matter with the oracle's twin when the party won't be overhead by other who might misunderstand the matter.

Still, whatever the half-orc knows or doesn't about this, the essence is fairly obvious in its desire to be taken hold of by the swashbuckler, and he does so with a curious sound, interested to see what gifts this will bestow upon him. In a moment, the condensed life energy is absorbed into his hand, and a shudder runs through him as his mind is suddenly filled with an incredible assortment of techniques and battle skills. Nothing particularly overpowering in and of itself, but more the sorts of things that an experienced soldier picks up over a lifetime of service, or that a student of a fighting school might learn upon being granted access to the school's exclusive teachings.

Garidan is positvely thrilled with this influx of new expertise, though his excitement is tempered by the knowledge that every one of these new tricks is going to require more than his usual amount of effort to pull off successfully; too many in too short a time will leave him worn out and dangerously vulnerable in a fight.


Male Imp Familiar 7
Garidan Vissir wrote:

The unexpected appearance of a small, winged being who is apparently also interested in the discarded weapons causes him to momentarily flinch back.

"Who, and what, are you," Garidan asks warily of the creature, hand hovering near his rapier's grip.

The creature turns in the air to look at Garidan with a big grin. "I'm Torenz! You may know me better as..." With an unpleasant squelching noise the creature transforms into a raven. "I've been with you guys a long time. But old grumpy one-eye up there-" He transforms back into his normal form, jerking a thumb at Malthazir. "Says I gotta check out magic items, and these bows are causing a fuss, so let me get on with it, yeah?"

As one of the bows suddenly shudders he frowns, whipping around and scanning the area. I assume with constant detect magic, that unless Niyut specifically avoids him, Torenz will be able to figure out she's there with a bit of time.

Torenz melts away into the ether as his invisibility goes up again. He floats to the side of Niyut and whispers in her ear. "Hey, I've faced the stripples enough today, let's just put 'em in a pile and look at 'em later, huh?" He suggests nonmagically ;)


Male Noble Elf Wizard 9/Bard 1 | AC 15/10/15 | HP 71/71 | F +4, R +6, W +9 | CMD 12 | Move 30 ft. | Init +6 | Perc +15 (+4 with familiar)

After healing Garidan, Malz makes his way over to Foramdar and the others arguing. "Foramdar...what is your intention here? Do you have a reason for wanting to sacrifice yourself?" He asks patiently.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (9) + 14 = 23 Malthazir is trying to get across that he's not making assumptions and is open to Foramdar's reasoning.


HP 80/80 | AC 21/16/15 | CMD 21 | Fort +7 Ref +12 Will +6 | Per +12, Dark Vision 60' | Init +6 Aegean Unchained Rogue 7 {Nature Fang 1}

Gruskorb breathed deeply. A moment of calm in the storm. Yet even as he formed that thought, a twinge of anxiety formed. Lockjaw has been quiet. Not pushy. The trap was farther away from him on the battlefield. He began making his way back, albeit slowly with the spoils of war delaying him.

Though not overly interested in the knives or armor, the grappling hook, manacles, lockpicks, and dice found their way into his possession. So to would have the silver chain, yet its owner was not yet among the departed. Clearly in no state to fight, the squatting Gruskorb grasped his hand. He could live. Will he?

"Quiet now. Speak your name. Let's see if we can make a deal and keep death away."

In truth, Gruskorb felt a bit of mercy - a rather foreign feeling for him. The swath of destruction across this site gave him pause before adding to it. Practically, the survivor could maybe give them some information. Yet probably not. What are the odds he was a leader of some sort?

He knew the humans would not show restraint in killing their enemy, and he doubted the siblings would either. Perhaps he was going soft?

"Querkus, what do you think? Should this one be spared?"

A throb was felt in his mind at the absence of Lockjaw nearby. I must find it ... and quickly.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Niyut does not let her expression change as Garidan adds his voice to hers. She is not annoyed by the swordsman's agreement with her, but she wishes he had kept his contempt for the king of Haemil to himself. While she shares this contempt, the king was a fool and likely to lead to his people's demise. It does no good to put the back of one of his greatest servants up. Better if he had phrased it more diplomatically, but still she sympathizes because the king had gotten the better of her temper before as well.

Mal's effort to undermine her comes as no surprise. The elf constantly seeks place himself as a locus of authority. It exhausts her, but she realizes this must be a learned behavior from his home in among the lowlander elves.

I doubt under any other circumstances would we all come together or stayed together. Garidan is sweet, but so impetuous. He rarely considers the longer game, or that his loose lips endanger us all. Gruskorb is so prickly and untrusting. And Malthazir is often such an ass, though once he was kind to me. When he plays his meaningless power games, I must remember that kindness.

For a moment, she reflects on the humor in sacrificing so much for people she doesn't even know whether she likes. Her vow has much more to do with her defiance of the state of the world than it does anything else.


Bright Tower Maps | Last Haven Table #1 Maps | Last Haven Table #2 Maps

14th of Selefis, 7995 E.C.

With Truk'tosh...

Truk'tosh feels the pride welling in the dwarf. Aye, I do. Mylesar sits in Midian and looks down through the Ether at us. He yearns to feel battle again. Tearing flesh from bone and bone from flesh as he brings his wrath upon his enemies. When you honor him in battle against his enemies, he will be there watching you. If he deems you worthy, he will touch you again... Morgrym's voice trails off as he basks in the half-orc's glory. Never had the dwarf felt the great spirits blessing as he felt today.

With Niyut...

A pair of soldiers carefully building the pyres look up, hearing the now familiar sounds of gnolls scurrying off. They grab their longspears and disappear into the darkness. Finding nothing, they return but keep a listening ear to the night. Niyut quietly makes off with the bows. Niyut hears the weak, drowning voice of Viosil moaning in pain. Her senses align with the elf and she feels his anguish as though his flesh is burning. It had been sometime since she had remembered the parasitic mortal. But as she tried to ignore him, the sounds grew louder and the pain more acute. Anger swelled in her, and she wished him dead… or at least gone from her.

Then a familiar voice brings her solace and comfort. Much dark magic has come to you, daughter of my daughters. The weapons you covet are terrible and powerful. They forebode death in the eternal fires of the spirit world… and tied they are to the world of being of mind without being of flesh. More powerful than you in the ways of the spirit world, is their maker.

@Niyut - The pocket of your robe acts like a bag of holding I. At 30 cubic feet, you've packed it full even though you're well under the weight limit.

With Foramdar in the City...

Foramdar smiles warmly at Niyut and the others. ”I don’t intend to die any time soon, but we have much to protect here beyond the people of Haemil. While my lord, Helluddar, is King of Haemil and fights to protect his people’s retreat, he is also the Steward of Earthenwork. He’s empowered by Calladrym to defend the secrets of the great stronghold of the gods.” He pauses, looking at the others so that what he has said might sink in.

”If we abandon Earthenwork to Rgulblux… and possibly these ice giants you’ve battled… they will have access to the Circle of the Whispering Wind and the other… implements of the Ealintaine. They could go anywhere... at anytime... even Talanor would not be safe. Our evacuation would be meaningless if they could follow us.”

Turning to the wizard, he places a large hand on the elf’s shoulder, ”My intention, Malthazir, is to give you and many of our citizens time to leave the city... and then ensure that none follow. All able bodied warriors, as many of the citizens of Haemil have become today, will remain in Earthenwork, to defend that which cannot fall into any enemy’s hands. Already, the King is pulling out of the lower city. Rgulblux will have it soon… the lifts to the upper city will be disabled. If the giants come, we’ll retreat to the palace. If all else fails… well, we shall see what the King decides.”

With Gruskorb…

As the hobgoblin looted the bodies, his eyes fixated on the silver cord. Unstringing the chain wrapped cord from the bracer, he smiles broadly as he fondles another prize of the spoils of victory. A loud sound catches his attention. Tucked between the bracer and the gnolls arm, a folded piece of woolen cloth had fallen to the ground with a solid thud. As he peels back the cloth, a brilliant opal with fiery flecks of silver and gold dancing inside the gemstone, is revealed. Gruskorb grins broadly and looks back at the gnoll, demanding his name. But the dog’s life was snuffed out. He was gone.

Too late… and probably best for him… and us. The gnolls respect for truth, nor for the world in which they live. They consume without sowing, and death always follows them. The druid’s voice returns to hte darkness of Gruskorb’s mind.

@All - Let me know if I missed anything. There was lot's to cover here.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Earlier at the pyres . . .

Fie, Niyut projects at her vexatious, unwelcome guest. If you will not leave, better if you had unified with me. I have no influence over the great spirits that bedevil me, but neither have they daunted me. Even when Korlez . . . misused . . . me in the world of spirits after I defied him. Disunion causes pain.

She sucks at her singed fingers and considers her grandmother's council. "Truly, I am a lodestone to dark powers, mother of my mother. This magic reeks of the foulest sacrifice to me. While it is true that I am seizing all power that comes to me, I desire it not for its own sake. But rather to keep my brother and the people of my vow safe. You taught me, and mother always affirmed, that origins do not determine the outcomes of things. Can we unbind the spiritual power from the malice of the maker? Will you share with me the rites to expel evil influences? It would dishonor the deaths of those who were destroyed for their making if we do not turn their sacrifice to better purposes. We use all parts of the aurochs and give thanks that its strength nourishes our vitality and our world. So to would I extend this respect for those who died for these bows."

It does not bother her that this unknown worker is more mighty than she. Since she left her mother's yurt to appease the dark spirits before the Storm, most workers she had met were more potent than she. But here she still stood while their blood and bones were part of her craft. While Niyut has a surfeit of self-confidence, a small part of her had begun to fear her rapidly growing power. She knows that the great spirits are liars, but is Korlez actually changing her into what her people fear most? She shies away from the thought, and waits for her grandmother to share what wisdom she will.

With Foramdar

Niyut blinks and gives Foramdar a mild look. His king seems barely empowered to strap his own boots let alone to hold divine gifts. How much of my disdain is for the king and how much for the King of the Gods?

She reaches into her robe and pulls out sage and a bit of her precious red paint. She places some of the sage in Foramdar's gauntlet and with the red paint draws the sigil that represents Chana's binding of Vash on his breastplate.

"I call upon all goodly spirits to hear and to attend me. Turn all malice from this man. By the virtue of Chana's seven stars, turn both fire and woe. By my blood stretching back to Simur, may this blessing be renewed until the world is made whole or until the seven stars of Chana tumble from the sky."

She nips her thumb and uses the ruby jewels of her blood to complete the sigil. While she had seen her mother and some of the other elders tie a blessing to a ley-line, and though the most powerful ley-line she has ever seen flows next to her, Niyut doesn't understand the method nor is she attuned the the Great River. Nevertheless, she knows that there is potency in flesh and blood. Power that can be drawn. Charms that can be spun. Nevertheless, Simur's blood that flows in her veins and to that she is attuned. The spirits of the world will protect her. She hopes that they extend their protection to this man as well.

"I have done what I can and hope that it serves you well. I would hate for my previous efforts to be in vain. Be well, Foramdar, and live."

Turning to her companions, "We should head to the Tower of Conjuration. Garidan, if there is any trading you want to do in these lands or other matters of the lowland you want to attend now is the time. One way or another, I plan to be heading to the First Lands after I rest whether by my own feet or by Hazard's spell."


HP 56/98 Panache 6/7 Stamina 4/10 | AC 28/18/20); 26/18/18 w/composite bow | energy resist: 2 negative, 5 fire | CMD 30 | Fort +6 Ref +13 Will +5 | Per +16, Darkvision 60 ft. | Init +7 (+9 w/swashbuckler initiative);
Class and Skills:
Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8/Fighter (Lore Warden) 2 | Acro +20, Bluff +10 Climb +8, Inti +16, Stea +15
Combat:
30 ft. (30 ft.) | Melee +19/+14 (+21/+16 vs. undead) (+2 bane rapier) Ranged +15 (dagger) Ranged +16/+11 (mwk composite shortbow) CMB +12; weapon cord attached: Yes (rapier)

Chastened by Foramdar's reminder that Haemil has reason to be a target--for Garidan's particular mentality often leads to him focusing all too intently on one specific aspect of a situation, to the detriment of larger or related concerns--the swashbuckler blushes in embarassment and nods. "Right, right, I had forgotten about those things, and you're right of course. Rgulblux most certainly can't be allowed to assume control of anything like that. But wouldn't it be possible to evacuate or even destroy what he seeks here? While losing such treasures would certainly be blow, not just for the power they offer but also their value as historical relics, it's certainly one way to accomplish the task of keeping them out of hands such as his." Looking at the pile of rubble where the tower once stood in the wall, Garidan groans. "I'm just tired of the idea of losing yet more people to this disaster and those seeking to gain by it. Never mind that you've got good reason for it, and I'm grateful enough that you didn't rub my nose in that reminder as well, but it's just stuff in the end. Grab it and leave, or if it can't taken, then ruin it beyond use and leave. Such things must surely have final means to prevent their misuse if mortal efforts at defense fail, and this does seem the best time to activate any failsafes that are available."

The swashbuckler is clearly ready to continue on this line of discussion when he stops, takes a deep breath, and lets it out slowly while tapping his fingers against a segment of his armor as if keeping count, an action which has a curious look of long-standing habit to it. After a few moments of silence, he speaks again. "I apologize, Captain, and do so again if I've offered any offense with my words. I'm sure that Haemil's authorities have taken such considerations into account already, and far more effectively than an outsider such as myself ever could. It's just that any further losses strike me as another victory for our foes, and it seems that they've had all too many of those lately. Still, it's clear that there are reasons why some must remain here, and that's all that there is to be said." With that, Garidan nods respectfully to the soldier and takes his leave before his free-running mouth causes problems.

Niyut's soft-voiced reminder that the party still has things to do, and little time to do them in, serves to shift his attention to something he can, and Garidan gives her a faint smile. "Right, anything in particular you want me to pick up while I'm out trading, scavenging, or otherwise acquiring goods for our use?" The offer is made half in earnest, and half in jest, for the young man knows that finding angthing specific is likely to be a serious endeavor, though he'll make his best attempt if there really is a particular thing she has need of. While awating her reply, he looks around a moment until he locates Gruskorb, at which point he calls the hobgoblin over. "Gruskorb, going to see what sorts of supplies I can get hold of, want to come with me? You've got a keen eye for value, better than mine, and I'd appreciate both the company and the help."


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Wrapping her thumb with a clean cloth, her ruby lips glisten wetly. "I wouldn't mind a drop spindle and a traveling loom, Garidan. Thank you for asking."


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Stepping back from Foramdar, Niyut looks around for Leezzâ.


Bright Tower Maps | Last Haven Table #1 Maps | Last Haven Table #2 Maps

14th of Selefis, 7995 E.C.

With Niyut…

I do not know the rituals to unbind the magic. It is beyond me, just as you have surpassed me in many ways but age… and wisdom. Your path through the darkened world will surely reveal the truths you seek if you stay vigilant.

With Foramdar…

A confused look strikes the face of the Captain as the oracle begins her blessing. His instinct was to recoil for surely this was blasphemy before Calledrym. His god was a jealous one, he knew. But he also knew that Niyut, her brother and the others had showed their worth and valor n battle. Surely, the young’s girls gods would bless him as well for these were dark times, and Foramdar would welcome any that call him ally. ”Thank you, Niyut.”

When the oracle turns and looks out towards the battlefield, he steps next to her. The calvary should return soon. I believe your friend, the female elf, is with them. They left in pursuit of the gnolls. Upon her return, I shall send her to the Hazard’s tower, if that is where you are heading. He then turns back to his men and set them to work. Beyond the walls near the pyres, the two disciples of Calledrym stand in silent prayer over the deceased, then set the fires and return with a quick gate to the city.

”With your leave, we will return to the temple and assist with the evacuation. I have blessed your soldiers and those that have left us for His halls,” Wülfwindt says to Foramdar. With a nod from the Captain, the clerics depart.

From the south, two soldiers leading a single horse approach. Upon the beast’s back, lay three dead gnolls. ”Caught them headed to the central lift, Lord Foramdar,” they report. The captain points to the raging fire beyond the walls. ”Dispose of them,” he responds.


Male Noble Elf Wizard 9/Bard 1 | AC 15/10/15 | HP 71/71 | F +4, R +6, W +9 | CMD 12 | Move 30 ft. | Init +6 | Perc +15 (+4 with familiar)

Seeing Foramdar's resolve and Niyut's resignation, Malthazir drops the subject. He does see the efficiency of the plan, even if it comes at a great price. The man was selfless, not reckless. A quality he himself had never possessed.

"Niyut, Torenz told me of difficulties with imbued bows. Is the matter pressing or can we make our retreat first?" He inquires.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Niyut was not asking if her grandmother knew how to unbind the power from the bow, but to get rid of any evil cooties that might remain behind after the fact. That might not be a thing, and even if it were, she might not know it. Also, "her gods" hahaha. It is probably best that neither Niyut nor Foramdar understand each others' theology.

The young woman leans close to Malthazir, her dark hair brushing against the sleeve of his robe. "Not here. Later. Walk with me as we move through the city, and I will tell you of the matter."

She turns and moves toward the city.

If we are moving to a transitional scene, I'll post another post on the matter.


Male Noble Elf Wizard 9/Bard 1 | AC 15/10/15 | HP 71/71 | F +4, R +6, W +9 | CMD 12 | Move 30 ft. | Init +6 | Perc +15 (+4 with familiar)

Malz nods, trusting Niyut's judgement. Although he knew his arcane education outstripped her, the art of essences was enough of a focus of hers that her competency rivaled his own.


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Niyut wrote:
Niyut was not asking if her grandmother knew how to unbind the power from the bow, but to get rid of any evil cooties that might remain behind after the fact. That might not be a thing, and even if it were, she might not know it. Also, "her gods" hahaha. It is probably best that neither Niyut nor Foramdar understand each others' theology.

Gotcha.

Niyut wrote:
Also, "her gods" hahaha. It is probably best that neither Niyut nor Foramdar understand each others' theology.

Glad you caught that. Haha!

@All - If no other actions here, I'll move us along to the Rhykal's tower.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

As they walk through the city, Niyut continues to murmur to Malthazir. "First, you and your imp need to learn subtlety. The horse lords were trying to burn the bows because of their foul magic. They could easily burn us for making off with them. My heart skipped a beat when you brought it up in front of Foramdar. Second, these bows are powerfully imbued. There were twenty-five, but I ruined one trying to extract it carefully. Taking 10 This suggests to me that our cantrips can unbind the spells because the axe was not harmed when I tried to unbind it. I believe that if we are to reclaim this power from its evil maker, then we must work together."


Male Noble Elf Wizard 9/Bard 1 | AC 15/10/15 | HP 71/71 | F +4, R +6, W +9 | CMD 12 | Move 30 ft. | Init +6 | Perc +15 (+4 with familiar)

Malz frowns. "I had been occupied with healing Garidan, I didn't realize it was a sensitive issue. I was only told there was a complication in passing and assumed it was out of complexity. Torenz was scarce on details because he said you ignored him. We cannot practice subtlety when you don't inform us of what is happening."


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Speaking of Extract Essence

Niyut pulls the Onyx Talisman of Fire from around her neck. "I have treasured this ugly thing because it symbolized my triumph in the crypt. But now is not a time kind to sentiment. What if ice giants were to attack us, I have no fire magic to burn them out.

Spell Craft (Extract Essence): 1d20 + 23 ⇒ (12) + 23 = 35

What percentage do I need to roll to see if it drops an Evocation Essence. If anyone has Curios that they would like to scrap, now is as good of time as any.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

"He has eyes and ears does he not? What did he believe was happening when he saw them place the bows on a pyre? And I would not speak to him when I, myself, was invisible and there were guards around. I speak with you now as soon as I was able. The imp, I think, tries to subvert our efforts," Niyut replies blandly.


Male Noble Elf Wizard 9/Bard 1 | AC 15/10/15 | HP 71/71 | F +4, R +6, W +9 | CMD 12 | Move 30 ft. | Init +6 | Perc +15 (+4 with familiar)

"He addressed you, you ignored him. Was he untruthful when he told me that?"


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

"I just said that he did so and described the circumstances. He was there were I was where the archers were stacking the bows on a pyre like so much kindling. But, I'm less interested in your dealings with evil spirits -- the same evil spirits that back the gnolls -- and more interested in reclaiming the magic from these bows."


Male Noble Elf Wizard 9/Bard 1 | AC 15/10/15 | HP 71/71 | F +4, R +6, W +9 | CMD 12 | Move 30 ft. | Init +6 | Perc +15 (+4 with familiar)

"Excellent. Now that we all know the truth of the matter we know what the failure in communication was. Hopefully you can do better in the future." Malz rudely states, walking off to begin the retreat.

By all the gods above and below, did you really just do that?
Do what, identify the problem so that it can be addressed?
She's going to smack you, if you're REALLY lucky. I wouldn't put it past them to completely ditch you and find another arcane caster.
Niyut is not a child, I do not have to coddle her.
There is a difference between coddling and giving basic decency.
Odd that you would talk of such matters after forcing lyrics from my tongue.

Malz shuts out the voice, tucking it to a corner of his mind as he thinks of other matters. Most pressing is the imp. Despite what he said to Niyut, he knows that there is much work to be done with Torenz if this is to be a worthwhile servant.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Did he really just say that I should reveal myself to others to answer his evil spirit, and expose us all to be burned!?

Niyut shakes her head in disbelief. The elf was proving to be rude and unreliable. Rude she could handle, but the young woman values competence and results above most other considerations. Before, she could bear Malthazir's contempt because he brought results. But, if he is placing his feelings above getting results, then what use is the conjurer?

Like most things, I may have to handle these matters myself.


HP 56/98 Panache 6/7 Stamina 4/10 | AC 28/18/20); 26/18/18 w/composite bow | energy resist: 2 negative, 5 fire | CMD 30 | Fort +6 Ref +13 Will +5 | Per +16, Darkvision 60 ft. | Init +7 (+9 w/swashbuckler initiative);
Class and Skills:
Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8/Fighter (Lore Warden) 2 | Acro +20, Bluff +10 Climb +8, Inti +16, Stea +15
Combat:
30 ft. (30 ft.) | Melee +19/+14 (+21/+16 vs. undead) (+2 bane rapier) Ranged +15 (dagger) Ranged +16/+11 (mwk composite shortbow) CMB +12; weapon cord attached: Yes (rapier)

I got shopping to do, maybe with Gruskorb if he gets around to replying in time, but that can be done after the meeting with Rhykal. For now, just eatin' ma popcorn and watchin' the drama :D!


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

After my extraction of the Onyx Talisman is resolved, I'll continue and extract the Essences from the Equine Idol

Spell Craft (Extract): 1d20 + 23 ⇒ (17) + 23 = 40


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GM Screen:

EquineIdolEssence: 1d100 ⇒ 25

14th of Selefis, 7995 E.C.

NIyut slowly pulls out the Onyx Talisman of Fire from under her robe. Chanting the charm of extraction the talisman glows red hot then fades back to its normal, blackened form. No, essence appears for Niyut’s taking. Frustrated, she pulls out the Equine Idol and recites the cantrip once again. This time a sphere of greenish energy releases from the idol and swirls about her head. Coming to rest in her palm, she takes a long, thankful look at an ethereal essence. The idol withers and cracks, its magic gone.

The group gathers their things along with Tacal and heads south down the Gilded Boulevard, the largest street on the westside of the River. Passing several massive cathedrals and grand buildings, many people can be seen scrambling to load carts and wagons with various belongings. Filling the streets, the people of Earthenwork only give the party a passing glance. Few children or elderly can be seen. They must have already been gathered or departed the city, you’d assume. More than once, a garrison of soldiers and archers pass you, heading north towards the battle scene you just left. The demeanor of those heading north to guard the retreat is stoic, but you can seen the pain in their eyes as their heads turn to gaze at the only city they’ve known.

Ahead of you, on the west side of the boulevard, the palace comes into view. You had stepped into the audience chamber to greet the King several days ago. It seemed like months had passed since you had been there. The streets here are lined with people waiting to make their way into the palace and the temple beyond. Arguments are breaking out and order is in jeopardy. You see weary soldiers of Haemil milling about, trying to keep the anxious crowds calm as they wait their turn. Malthazir surveys the area and estimates over thirty thousand people wait outside the walls of the palace. And from what you can see beyond the gates another such crowd is in the Bailey of the palace. From the south, a scored of mounted knights accompany the King. They have come from the direction of the lift that you once rode up from the lower city.

One of the knights points your group out to the King, who halts his ride to the palace. He raises a hand and waves you to come his direction. The lead knight nods to the King and quickly rides to you. ”My lord, King Helluddar, bids you to come and speak with him.”


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

I cannot wait to see the back of this . . . king.

Niyut inclines her head to the knight, "Lead us to your king, horse lord."


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GM Screen:

IdolEE1-86%: 1d100 ⇒ 12
IdolEE2-86%: 1d100 ⇒ 75
IdolEE3-86%: 1d100 ⇒ 69
IdolEE4-86%: 1d100 ⇒ 82
IdolEE5-86%: 1d100 ⇒ 64
IdolEE6-86%: 1d100 ⇒ 34
IdolArcane55%: 1d100 ⇒ 28

Earlier with Niyut...

The green ethereal essence bursts splitting into five ethereal essences and a single, sparkling Transmutation Essence.

Back to the present...

The riders stares at Niyut and bows his head, "I am no lord. But I thank you for the salutation even as you do not know our customs. You may call me, Sir Kümmel.. or Lüendolf, if you prefer," he smiles at Niyut, then turns and regards the others. Backing up his horse, he turns and leads you to the King, keeping a watchful eye on Truk'tosh.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

"Thank you, Sir Lüendolf."

Niyut gives the man a smile in return, and forebears running her hands through her long and glorious hair. It had been months since she had spoken to a man who wasn't her brother, a companion who fears her, a man old enough to be her father, a mad king, or a demigod.

Though she is undoubtedly lovely, Niyut has little awareness of her own beauty because of her tribe's prejudices. For all her power and cares, Niyut is still a young woman and some part of her quickens at the knight's smile.


HP 80/80 | AC 21/16/15 | CMD 21 | Fort +7 Ref +12 Will +6 | Per +12, Dark Vision 60' | Init +6 Aegean Unchained Rogue 7 {Nature Fang 1}

With Garidan:

His head throbbed yet, but he reconvened with the group after no sight of Lockjaw. The two of us are linked, I can feel it ... why must it play these games with me?

Garidan's request would help give him a focus to keep his mind off the pain. "The value part's easy: What people want, you keep. This?" he gestured at the battlefield after the two had set off alone, "Is worth little now. The remaining weapons are sturdy enough to survive, yet they are also plentiful. What will be rare soon are memories of this land as it was."

A dark look hard to discern came over Gruskorb's face. Not usually of many words, he continued his appraisal of the situation. "Soon, these people will leave their home for the last time. They'll want momentoes, pictures - anything that can make them feel like their lives until this point had value or meaning. They'll cling to hope and family and love, believing somehow those things will make their situation better." He emphasized the words not quite with disdain, but with angry finality.

Keeping his eyes open as he walked, the rogue's ears were uncharacteristically closed. "A son of a family that died defending this place? A portrait of him would be worth a thousand platinum to them - better hope he was from a family that could pay it! They cared for their boy, yes, but their own lives are in flow now too. The migration will eat away at their identity, feeding on their despair until they are hermits in an alley with nothing but the "Legend of Haemil" to their names, insignificant now themselves."

Sense Motive DC 21:
It is clear Gruskorb is speaking about the emotional parts with some close personal experience. What is unclear is if he's the son or the family.

His throbbing head caused him to pause a step and put his palm to the spot for a moment. "If you really wanted to find wealth, you're looking for an investment, an enterprise here. You exploit those hopes, manipulate them into new ones." He shook off the pain after a minute, looking into the man's eyes. He's sharp, but counts on his own resilience overmuch. "Take the sign of an inn from here. You bring that to this new place, set up a tavern? They'll all flock to it. The ale might be swill, and the meat might be tough, but they'll see each other, claw back what bits of life they still had here between themselves - and get drunk enough to believe - for a time - any of it mattered. That drug'll keep them coming back, keep coins coming in, until they're broke or dead."

The hobgoblin coughed, looking for something to catch his eye in his surroundings. "Or you can pick up bloody boots and sell them to the guard captains. Your call."

Later, on the way to the king:

Not as dismissive of the king as Niyut was, Gruskorb was curious to see how the carriage of power worked when the ruler's realm was seized. Not quite that same as what I saw back in my day, and yet there is opportunity here.

The rider's horse made him think further: Who's going to feed these beasts now? Food will be tight.


Male Half-Orc Druid 8/Cleric 1 | HP: 116/116 l AC: 26 (30 with buffs, 32 vs the first 3 attacks per round) /T: 12/FF: 24 l Fort: +15*, Ref: +5*, W: +14* l Init: +0 l Per: +15; Low-light vision l Movement: 30 *Hardy: Gain +2 racial bonus on saving throws against poison, spells, and spell-like abilities *Familiar:51/51

Truk'tosh follows the procession in implacable dutiful silence. He notices the knight's accusatory glance but gracefully ignores it. Such prejudices lost power over him years ago and there were more pressing matters at the moment than one fool's fear born of ignorance.


Male Noble Elf Wizard 9/Bard 1 | AC 15/10/15 | HP 71/71 | F +4, R +6, W +9 | CMD 12 | Move 30 ft. | Init +6 | Perc +15 (+4 with familiar)

Malz rides atop a horse, not wanting to use any more of his precious flight magic but unwilling to wade through the muck on the ground. "Lead to the king than, we have little time to waste."

Stop being such an irritable cu-

Malz shuts out the voice again, frowning at his lapse in concentration.


HP 56/98 Panache 6/7 Stamina 4/10 | AC 28/18/20); 26/18/18 w/composite bow | energy resist: 2 negative, 5 fire | CMD 30 | Fort +6 Ref +13 Will +5 | Per +16, Darkvision 60 ft. | Init +7 (+9 w/swashbuckler initiative);
Class and Skills:
Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8/Fighter (Lore Warden) 2 | Acro +20, Bluff +10 Climb +8, Inti +16, Stea +15
Combat:
30 ft. (30 ft.) | Melee +19/+14 (+21/+16 vs. undead) (+2 bane rapier) Ranged +15 (dagger) Ranged +16/+11 (mwk composite shortbow) CMB +12; weapon cord attached: Yes (rapier)

With Gruskorb
Sense Motive Check: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28

Cocking his head to side, Garidan gives the hobgoblin's impassioned words some serious thought before replying. "Well spoken, though I'm afraid I must correct you on a very important point. When I spoke of 'value', I didn't mean for the people of Haemil, but for us and our use in the future. How best can we secure what we need for the least amount of expenditure? I may be able to talk hungry griffons around," he remarks with a grin as he makes reference to a rather awesome bit of fast talking on his part. "But for actual haggling over something? Not very good at all, I'm afraid."

The swashbuckler then looks around casually and, making sure that none save their own are within earshot, leans toward Gruskorb and continues much more quietly. "And asking for your keen eye on a shopping trip is a lot less likely to cause us problems than openly asking for your skills at getting into places you shouldn't otherwise be in, and making off with things that don't actually belong to you." Sighing, he rubs at his eyes a moment before shaking his head wearily. "While I don't ordinarily condone such deeds, there's a chance that things we need, or at least could make good use of, are locked away with none left to speak to about obtaining them properly. Better it be used by us than left for the gnolls, or whatever scurries through Haemil's rubble if the city gets wrecked."

Stepping back a bit to give the hobgoblin his space, Garidan gives his ally a long, thoughtful look, as though considering whether to say something else. Apparently, he decides to forge ahead, for he addresses Gruskorb again, voice still held below the level where casual eavesdroppers could hear him. "At the risk of poking where I'm not welcome, I get the strong feeling that some of what you said just now was more about you than anyone here in Haemil. If you need a friendly pair of ears to ease whatever is weighing so heavily on your thoughts, I'm quite willing to listen."

Party
When Niyut break apart a rather odd little trinket for the magic within, Garidan watches with interest. He doesn't recall seeing the object before, and realizes it must have been loot claimed after their recent fights. The essence that departs from it to approach him is claimed with nary a word said, though he does offer a grateful smile to the oracle.

Following that, Garidan is more than ready to get a bit rest before slogging through Haemil's emptying streets for supplies, not to mention settling up Rhykal, and whatever else he can find time to do before the party leaves Haemil for the last time. So a notice that someone wants to divert them for a meeting--even if that someone is Helluddar Krögen, nineteenth of his oh-so-illustrious name--draws a frustrated groan from the worn man. Muttering under his displeasure under his breath, for he doubts Niyut would welcome a more audible show of unhappiness, his companions alone can make out his words. "Damn it, what does he want now? Can't I have another fight with the gnolls instead of this? At least they just want kill me and eat me, maybe even in that order."


King of Haemil and Steward of Earthenwork

As the group follow the lead of Lüendolf Kümmel and make their way towards the king, the see a pair of well armored knights approach Helluddar to converse. They point back towards the palace and speak with exagerated gestures while the king listens intently. At last he speaks just as you approach within earshot.

"No, no... send the elderly, children and mothers first. Commoners... nobility... slaves... Aertens... or any other race of the gods... it makes no difference. Keep it orderly, no favoritism. All must be evacuated. Anyone else able to wield a sword or otherwise fight stays for now. As for the royal court and the nobility, Prince Jannik and my brother will stay with us. Princess Anelei and Leonhard’s daughter, Giseila, must make the trip immediately. Appoint a knight as personal guard for each and send a squad of King's Guard with them. Lady Sabine is free to make her own choice, but if she stays, her son Didrik must surely go. Lady Lieselle and her young children have no choice; they must go as well," Helluddar commands in a resolute tone. The elder of the two commanders bows his head in deference. The king continues, turning his attention to a younger knight, "Thank you, for volunteering, Sir Cássyon. Once the royal court is through the Circle, you follow them with a legion of the City Command. The Hazard is unsure what defense, if any, Talanor has. Secure a place for our people to house. Look to Princess Anelei to rule in my stead." The two commanders nod in unison and turn their horses to leave. "And Cássyon... if he lives, find Gunther at the Bright Tower. If Earthenwork falls, he's third in line," the king shouts after the two men. Sir Cássyon shouts back, "For Haemil!"

Helluddar turns his attention to the group, "We cannot thank you enough. Many of the nobles and their people have arrived, but we are outnumbered by the gnolls. And while the walls of Earthenwork still hold the bulk of their army at bay, many of them have found their way into the lower city. We have pulled back to the lifts and will soon have our forces in the upper city. Disabling the lifts will halt their advancement... but I hear you have seen visions of giants coming from the mountains. What can you tell me?"


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

Clarifying question: When we passed the gnoll's scary big fire we counted around 10,000. Rhykal said that 300,000 of the city survived the Storm. Have these numbers changed out of game? Or, is it more the case more baddies joined the gnolls we saw, etc?


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

"We have seen and fought against them in the high mountains, horse king. Only flame can truly kill them. Otherwise, they explode in a storm of ice and then reform many heartbeats later. They come through the origin of the Great River. I had hoped that they would not trouble you, but when I attempted to draw upon the power of the Great River to wash away the gnoll archers, I encountered one of their cunning men also drawing power from the river. We struggled. He prevailed and forced me from the spirit world. He was my better there. But, as we struggled, I saw their warriors flow down the river like water. Your walls cannot hedge them out, but they are not of this world. There are wards that could bar their access to your city by the water, if your . . . wizards . . .know them." The lowlander word feels awkward on her tongue.

Niyut gives the king the unvarnished truth. She is too tired to do anything else, and though she thinks his horse would make a better leader she had no desire for him or his people to die.


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Niyut wrote:
Clarifying question: When we passed the gnoll's scary big fire we counted around 10,000. Rhykal said that 300,000 of the city survived the Storm. Have these numbers changed out of game? Or, is it more the case more baddies joined the gnolls we saw, etc?

The 300,000 number included noncombatants (elderly, children, injured, etc.) Additionally, the gnoll forces (which includes other humanoids beyond gnolls) have increased. Helluddar’s statement stands that, at this time, combatant to combatant, the gnolls appear to have the advantage.


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

The night must have hidden many things for the slaves of the Flesh-Eater to out number the horse lords.


Male Noble Elf Wizard 9/Bard 1 | AC 15/10/15 | HP 71/71 | F +4, R +6, W +9 | CMD 12 | Move 30 ft. | Init +6 | Perc +15 (+4 with familiar)

Malz listens in on the king's instructions, making note of his leadership in such a trying time. He does well to command so resolutely. Weakness in times of hardship is a crippling trait. He also observes Niyut's response. She hides her contempt well. Although I already know that from her treatment of me. Malz approaches the king, inclining his head in respect. "Of course, we will always fight to ensure the civilized races prevail over such abhorrent creatures. Unfortunately for us gnolls train nearly every single individual for combat, and they breed and fester like rats."

"Niyut speaks true, make sure you have archers on hand with cloths and oil in order to burn them. But even knowing how to properly handle their death throes and regeneration...they are still giants. Their size and sheer strength, and they are not mindless foes." He pauses. "I could attempt to research such wards and help your other wizard with them, at least those of adequate power. But it would take time, time which I'm not sure we have."


Female Half Orc Oracle (Spirit Guide) 9/Sorcerer (Cross-blooded) 1 l HP: 79/79 l AC: 14 (Current AC: 22)/T: 13/FF: 11 (15) l F: +7, R: +10, W: +11 (+2 v Illusions) l Init: +5 l Per: +21 (+23 dim/dark); Darkvision 90' l Movement: 30 l SR Check: +11

After his earlier rudeness, Malthazir's use of the word 'civilized' infuriates Niyut. It is like he intentionally is pouring boiling water into an ant colony. Yet, it serves no purpose to express her displeasure. The elf consistently revealed who he is when he opens his mouth. He is as much a bigot as the horse lords. The oracle is not convinced that the gnolls would be an existential threat without the prodding of the great cannibal spirit. There might be battles over land and resources, but she does not believe that there would be this orgy of self-defeating violence. The gnolls in their fanaticism were destroying their own ability to persist by sacrificing such a large portion of their population.

It would be a lie to say that the First Lands were free from conflict and battle, but besides for the war between the Nightblood and the Lost she had never heard of peoples pursuing mutual annihilation. It was not the normal state of affairs. It was not the base assumption that speaking peoples could find no common ground.

Instead of stilling her face, a common tell, she lets his words flow through her like water.

Bluff to keep her composure: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (13) + 17 = 30


Male Noble Elf Wizard 9/Bard 1 | AC 15/10/15 | HP 71/71 | F +4, R +6, W +9 | CMD 12 | Move 30 ft. | Init +6 | Perc +15 (+4 with familiar)

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (16) + 13 = 29

If Malz notices Niyut's anger and displeasure towards him, he certainly doesn't seem bothered by it.


King of Haemil and Steward of Earthenwork

GM Screen:

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (6) + 14 = 20

The King's look hardens as Niyut and Malthazir describe the icy foes to the north. He cares little to decipher the darting looks between the oracle and the elf. "If they travel down the river, then it is true that our walls will not hold them from the city, but perhaps the palace walls will hold. Some magic still resides there," Helluddar responds. Turning to Sir Kümmel, the King continues. "Günenwhey and Häfenóst were to bring their men up the lift to help secure the northern gates. Tell the Graves to deploy their men on either side of the river from the walls to the palace. As more of the army arrives, they should secure the remainder of the river up to the falls.". The knight nods to his liege and, glancing at Niyut, spurs his horse into a gallop.

I do not know your plans from here, and you are not under my command," Helluddar concedes as he returns his attention to the group. "But, would you find Rhykal at the Tower of Conjuration? And ask her to send the Archuses. Any wards and protections they can provide will be most welcome. Also, bid her to hasten her departure from her Tower and from Earthenwork."

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