With Reiko hard pressed, Zeriax doubles his efforts - fully focused on the shots at one of the demons attacking his companion.
Pakak shuffles to not obscure the aim of his allies, but engulfs those near him in yet another shimmering ward to protect them all.
He then fires at which ever foe appears to be the most wounded with another burst of magic missiles.
Pakak has come to save the day again for some of the heroes as his protective ward is all that stood between live and near death for Reiko and severly injured Garith. As it is the danger is still quite real with the presence of 3 of the babaus still providing flank for each other.
This is quickly rectified by the group as another of the babuas is dropped even though he hadn't taken a single scratch yet before this. The combined force of arms is really overpowering as hands seem guided by Iomadae herself. Everyone connects even if some miss with 1 of their attacks (Garith, Reiko, and Zeriax).
The 2 babus know they need to flank to even have a chance at injuring the people so the babau to the north tumbles into flank on Reiko.
acrobatics success on Malechar but Garith gets an aoo
Once in position the 2 babaus attack Reiko...
bite for
claw 1 for
claw 2 for
bite for
bite for
Should be final round. AC is 18 and each has about 40 hp left...can you finish it now?
Maelchar steps to T36 to stay out of Zeriax's line of fire and attacks the demon at V35.
Reiko stumbles under the renewed abyssal assault. She spits out a gobbet of blood with a grim smile, drops her short blade, and drives her katana into the guts of the demon behind her. As she yanks the blade clear, the ronin spins from between the claws of her attackers and into a safer corner.
=================================
"Reiko, no..." - the monk utters, fully expecting his companion to fall under the demonic attacks. Yet she stands, clinging to life as some sort of unstoppable force in a pure display of resolve.
The monk steps forward, his bow continuously looking for targets, showing a will almost his own.
Garith lands on a blow on the babau as it tries to escape from its location damaging it even more than it was. that combined with the attack from Reiko drops the babau and frees Reiko up from being flanked.
Maelchar steps to the side and delivers a powerful blow with his weapon the holy power finally coming through to add extra damage at the last moment. Garith moves up and swings with Radiance slashing the demon across the back. Zeriax fires 2 arrows but his concern and shock at seeing Reiko still upright caused his hand to tremble enough that both arrows went off and hit the ceiling. Samanth, willing herself to end the last babau moves out provoking from the demon. for . Samantha ignores the attack so intent is she on her target that her weapon slices it nearly in half ending the babau threat.
As the final babau falls the light that filled each hero slowly dims and fades. Each of you feel different though. In fact you feel that the light has not gone out but is buried inside of you waiting to be called forth. It may not be as powerful but it is still there.
Maelchar reaches out to Irabeth and touches her gently, healing some of her damage.
He then turns his attention to Reiko and does the same thing for her, as the regeneration they were all the recipients of fades away.
Reiko's grimace turns into a relieved smile as Mael's healing energy closes her more grievous wounds. She pats the oracle on the shoulder in thanks. She turns to give Pakak a respectful bow, acknowledging the several times his ward deflected demonic claws and fangs. Without preamble, she says to all, "Forgive me for this next barbaric act." The ronin then hews the heads from Jeslyn, every babau, the peryton, and the minotaur. She carries the grisly trophies downstairs and places the heads in lines on either side of the grey garrison's doors - like a receiving line. When she returns from her task, she explains. "Fear is a weapon... sewing doubt, robbing will, and causing hesitancy. Until now, it has been the weapon of our enemies. Now, perhaps, it will be ours. News will spread. They will wonder what small group managed to invade their their sanctum, butcher their best guards, and display their heads for all to see. They will know doubt and - hopefully - fear."
"We are not as we were, even now..." The dwarf mutters starring at his hands that cast the magic missiles so recently, "The wardstones...not just the one we kept from evil, but all of them. They have done something to us-changed us. I feel it in my bones, and my mind can scarcely comprehend. Is it a gift we were given, or something we have, without meaning to, stolen?"
The wizard seems fascinated
Irabeth blinks and almost swoons again as the blood rushes to her head. Wha...what happened? I saw Pakak touch the wardstone and then I saw a vision of Areelu. You were all just standing there doing nothing. Next thing I know I can't breathe and i seems the walls are closing in on me. I prayed to Iomedae for help as I rushed Areelu. I don't remember anything else.
She stops talking as she looks at all of you. Perhaps it is some residue of the wardstones power reflecting in your eyes but she peers intently at all of you before finally realizing that there are 6 babau demons on the floor. Something momentous happened, that I can see. There is no way that you should have been able to slay 6 assassin demons.
With the air of one who is used to command, You must tell me what happenend so I can know what our next action should be.
Pskak, you do not knw the exact answer to your question...was this power taken or given? but you do remember that dream/vision of Iomadae herself crying over this place and beckoning you onward.
Reiko, the trophies are hung on the doorway and aruond the single window on the second level. As you go outside you saw a band of 5 tieflings and 3 cultist see your actions and flee the area withou looking back.
Maelchar gives Irabeth a brief rundown of his vision, though in truth so far he's unaware that the others shared the exact same vision. Then he tells her what he experienced and felt, and what he saw in the others, the power and heroism he witnessed, and the flow of the rather one-sided fight with the demons. He tells it rather matter-of-factly, without much embellishment, though he does express his being impressed with and surprised by Reiko's ability to take massive damage and keep to her feet and keep fighting.
"It was like we were infused with the power of the wardstone on it's destruction... I'm not sure how else to explain it. Praise the gods. But what happens now, I have no idea..."
Reiko nods in agreement at the key points of Maelchar's tale, making it clear that she shared the same experience. She adds only a single clarifying comment at the end, "The power of the stone seems to have waned now but I feel a... kernel of it still within me."
As Maelchar explains his visions, Pakak nods, "It was the same for me. It was as if the history of the land came in a great succession of waves. The dreams...vision of Iomedae, calling us forward. I hope that means we have at least one goodly god's blessing." But are we worthy of such trust? I am but flesh and blood, as are the others. To be touched by the divine so strongly... to be filled and changed. It is a great responsibility. And my thoughts race to the hows, and whys. Oh, if only I had time to study the ward stone remnants. Then he adds to Irabeth, "For once, we had the advantage, and while the fire of power has dimmed, embers of it remain... perhaps to be stoked anew."
Maelchar nods gravely at the end, to emphasize Reiko's assessment. "Aye, I feel it too, but can't explain it any other way. I think perhaps Reiko has the right of it."
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"These visions of Glory and horror, betrayal and blasphemy; but the future we avoided..." Garith says to no one in particular as Reiko goes about her grizzly work, still saddened by the death seen already and what is yet to come.
"Areelu, such a terrible foe, will not remain silent, not for long at least. This power within us, this mote of Iomadae's grace, will be needed to face our enemy." While there is no knowledge lending to his assessment, his faith in his loved goddess. "I feel a strength I have not known before and you seem to have it as well."
"We are called to be shining beacons to stave off the darkness crawling forth from the Abyss, my friends."
Irabeth stares at you in wonder as you retell what just happened in the last 2-3 minutes. So much in such a short amount of time. It is hard to believe yet I can sense the difference in you. You seem 'lighter' than before. Like the gloom of the worldwound can not tarnish you. I do not know if this is Iomedae's work or if she just knew what the result would be. Either way it seems like you have found favor in her sight.
Irabeth says this with a light heart. You know that she is a paladin of Iomedae and should wonder why not her as well but it does not seem that it bothers her too much. She is more in awe that anyone was blessed rather than resentful it wasn't her. Perhaps she knows that she has other duties to attend to and that you may be expected to be the vanguard of the fifth crusade.
What do you wish to do now? With what Reiko tells us this place is secure and I would suspect that with the burst of the power from the wardstone all of the demons in Kenebras will have been vanquished. All that would be left is the cultists and thieves to rout. Ae you planning on staying here and cleaning up this place for a while or do you wish to return to the Defender's Heart?
Pakak seems to drift from his fascination long enough to hear Garith and he looks a bit uncomfortable at his suggestion of the task entrusted How can any mortal be worthy of that? Of this?
Then Irabeth speaks, and he answers, "I would like time to not just study spells, but put ones in my book I have not been able to for now. Cleaning up thus appeals... but it is also true Defender's heart may need news of this."
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"At least some of the filth should be cleansed, and all of the equipment gathered as to add to the Crusade's armory." Garith suggests. "I do wish for a chance to pray, afer the bodies have been removed, of course, and at least the basic work done."
Garith will be more than happy to do the heavy lifting here. He lacks any magic to clean, but he can at least remove the desiccated bodies. "These falln warriors deserve their last rites, and honor for their sacrifice. I can lay their bodies out as best I can so they may be preyed over." He goes about gathering the remains, such as they are, of the dead crusaders that were killed in the Demon's attack with solemn respect.
He lays his fellows out as best he can in the hall below and sings a Requiem befitting those that gave their lived defending the Garrison, and had their bodies so treated after their death
"Rest well brothers and sisters, for your valiant efforts shall not be forgotten. I shall carry with me the weight of your loss and remain steadfast by your strength in this coming war." he whispers.
Maelchar will assist Garith with the bodies... helping him try to sort out body parts and make each one as whole as possible for the last rites to be offered. He stands solemnly by as GArith sings his requiem.
"Fitting words, cousins... You did Iomedae and the fallen warriors proud."
Reiko sets about gathering all of the equipment useful to the war effort. Being thorough, she even collects the arms and armor of the enemy, to prevent any returning opponents from putting it to foul use.
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Samatha is still somewhat awestruck, she looks at her companions looking for explanation for what transpired and slowly things seem to make sense for the young priestess. When it comes to lugging around bodies of the fallen she proves more ressourceful however than when it comes to understanding what has transpired.
Garith lands on a blow on the babau as it tries to escape from its location damaging it even more than it was. that combined with the attack from Reiko drops the babau and frees Reiko up from being flanked.
Maelchar steps to the side and delivers a powerful blow with his weapon the holy power finally coming through to add extra damage at the last moment. Garith moves up and swings with Radiance slashing the demon across the back. Zeriax fires 2 arrows but his concern and shock at seeing Reiko still upright caused his hand to tremble enough that both arrows went off and hit the ceiling. Samanth, willing herself to end the last babau moves out provoking from the demon. d20+12 for d6+5. Samantha ignores the attack so intent is she on her target that her weapon slices it nearly in half ending the babau threat.
As the final babau falls the light that filled each hero slowly dims and fades. Each of you feel different though. In fact you feel that the light has not gone out but is buried inside of you waiting to be called forth. It may not be as powerful but it is still there.
"Friends, I..." - Zeriax stammers for perhaps the first time since you met - "Feel something different, something taking hold inside" - the monk's amber eyes gleam with an unnatural glow as, bow in one hand, he stares at his other hand.
Simply nodding as Reiko sets about her grim task, agreeing with her choice regarding his most hated of foes, he turns to his companions as they voice their own opinion.
Reiko nods in agreement at the key points of Maelchar's tale, making it clear that she shared the same experience. She adds only a single clarifying comment at the end, "The power of the stone seems to have waned now but I feel a... kernel of it still within me."
"Yes" - he reinforces - "Something was left behind, in the wake of that amazing... Energy burst... Something that lingers..."
"For once, we had the advantage, and while the fire of power has dimmed, embers of it remain... perhaps to be stoked anew."
"I agree Master Pakak - I wa taught to be humble since I can ever remember myself" - Zeriax seems to remember a distant memory - "But even so, I feel a bolstering, overwhelming sensation - one that burns at the back of my head, urging me to fight on, reliant on the fact that we can make a difference"
"We are called to be shining beacons to stave off the darkness crawling forth from the Abyss, my friends."
A shinning beacon - the words echo in his head - An example to others? How could I ever be such a thing?
What do you wish to do now? With what Reiko tells us this place is secure and I would suspect that with the burst of the power from the wardstone all of the demons in Kenebras will have been vanquished. All that would be left is the cultists and thieves to rout. Ae you planning on staying here and cleaning up this place for a while or do you wish to return to the Defender's Heart?
"Once this area is confirmed safe, and all that might be deemed useful to the war effort has been reclaimed, I will still not be able to rest until I have patrolled the city in its entirety - my training and travels have provided much for me - I strive for balance of body and soul, but keen senses, and a light step are two things I have began to master" - the monk sounds serious and honest - "These should be where they are most needed, and in this time of aparent respite, making sure Kenabres is safe is one such place"
Being too self conscious, Zeriax does not sing with Garith and Maelchar, but he does assist in their task
Irabeth nods her head at your decision to remain and clean up. I will send some people over here to assist you as there is plenty of work to be done here. I think that restoring this place would be good for moral as well.
Zeriax that is kind to offer you but I would rather you recoup from your ordeal. If you insist then I will have a squad join you in your efforts as with your new found abilities you should be enough to handle anything that you come across.
Is there anything I can do for you before I leave to go back to the Heart?
Garith your benediction is well received and strikes the right chord among everyone. Somber to reflect the passing of the warriors yet building at the end with the hopes that their sacrifice was not in vain.
Throughout the day random patrols of warriors and crusaders stop by to witness the heads on pikes outlining the doorway. They all stop and congratulate you on a job well done. A little past 3 in the afternoon a group of craftsmen show up to help the repair and clean up process. With the amount of work that is to be done you figure it will take 3 days of cleaning before the repairs can be started in earnest.
"I cannot be sure, but i suspect Iomedae had no small part in the power we feel and had it not been for her, it is possible it might have filled us to bursting and dying. The power of the wardstones was never meant to be directed through such fragile things as we. Much experimenting must be done to learn more of our new natures, but you are right, Zeriax, humility is best. All have heard tales of men who tasted power and went made in their quest to gather ever more." Still, the dwarf looks intrigued on the means and ways, and while he studies spells, he will also tinker with formula, mathematical signs, and more.
Reiko spends a great deal of time over the next weeks meditating on the events at the Garrison. When not engaged in quiet introspection she manages to gain access to a forge and rounds up the tools of the craft. She takes one of the cold iron shortsword and begins reforging it as a wakizashi.
It takes a week and a day of work for Reiko, with Mael's help to complete the work.
COST: 35 (weapon) + 35 (cold iron) = 70
COST: 300 (masterwork - to be added later)
Materials COST: 23.3 GP if Cold Iron isn't free from using other weapon
Craft Value: 350 (silver)
CHECK RESULTS
Week 1: 22 x15 = 330 of 350 -> 20 left (1 week of work)
Week 2: 20 x15 = 300 of 20 -> -280 (~1 days)
Costs: 23.3 GP for the materials
Cost of artisan toolkit (5 or 55 for MW)
Maelchar, not having a lot of other plans, will spend a little of his time hunting cultists... when his time is free, he'll help Reiko with her crafting.
Zeriax that is kind to offer you but I would rather you recoup from your ordeal. If you insist then I will have a squad join you in your efforts as with your new found abilities you should be enough to handle anything that you come across.
"As amazing as it may seem" - Zeriax replies - "I do not feel tired or hurt in any way, as if I have been rejuvenated by the Wardstone" - he looks back at Irabeth - "I actually feel restless, and will welcome a chance to ponder all that has happened, but I wish to continue offering my service to make sure Kenabres is safe - if you would spare such a squad, I would welcome it, as I intend to divide my time between some rest, meditation, and patrolling the city" - he finishes.
During the next days, and when given a chance, Zeriax addresses Pakak and his companions in private - "Friends, I wanted to speak with you about the changes carved in my body and soul after we managed to overpower our foes at the Gray Garrison" - he begins, turning specifically at Pakak - "Apart from what we have all felt, there is something else... Something that manifested when I was out on patrol, as if my body had some sort of residual magical energy - I will show you"
First studying the room, he approaches Pakak and touches him, uttering a few simple words he never heard before, but that resound impossibly familiar in his head. In mere seconds the dwarf grows enormously, until attaining double his initial size.
Zeriax's eyes stare at all of you with an astonished look, and an intense gleam - "I have never studied the arcane arts... But when I approached you and spoke the words, I knew exactly what their effect would be - I knew what I was doing, and invoked it purposefully. It is amazing, is it not?" - he questions his companions - "And I feel I can do much more"
Pakak tilts his head curiously as Zeriax approaches and demonstrates his power. Pakak becomes a living oxymoron, a giant dwarf, and while surprised, he's mostly intrigued, "Sorcery perhaps runs in your blood. Some distant ancestor of some kind leaving a mark by essence or deed... the magic of the wardstone, some divine patron, or both may have awakened this in you. While study may not seem needed, I still recommend some dabbling at least in arcane lore and spellcraft. You will find it compliments well."
Master Ironwall doesn't add his other thoughts openly, Sorcerers... my mentor called it the 'low path' of magic, where arcane power came easily and unearned. I suppose part of it is based on envy on we wizards' part. It must be nice to not be reliant on books, scrolls, and years and years of study. Besides, Zeriax is a focused fellow or he'd not have become the archer he is, and an ally. I will not slander him...though I may give him a bit of berth until I know he won't accidentally blow us all up.
He reaches into his supplies, "I have an old primer if you'd like to peruse it. It's more about magic theory than anything else." He offers up a thin booklet.
Maelchar watches Zeriax enlarge Pakak and smiles as he thinks about the amount of damage he could do at 15 feet away from his foe with such a spell on himself and his weapon enlarged.
"Zeriax, we've simply got to work out an arrangement for such a spell on my self when we have time to prepare for combat. I was planning on doing a little cultist-hunting while we are awaiting our next task... Perhaps we can practice this a little if you would accompany me for a little bit of reconnaissance around the city."
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Garith's eyes widen as well. "Impressive, Zeriax. It is known that some spontaneously develop magic. You think it was the energies of the Wardstone that caused your power to manifest so? Such abilities may be a great boon to us my friend. Having such among out number with arcane and divine magics..."
"I have a cousin or two and ancestors with similar powers among the Mordrand family, humans that manifest angelic powers of great arcane potential thanks to our angelic bloodline. Mael, are there any oamon your family as well? Perhaps your line and that of the Zeru have fellow Aasimar that have arcane magic from our angelic fore-bearers." Garith muses at Pakak's comments.
Pakak, I'm planning on speaking with Aravishinal when he can make it here. I wanted to let you know should you with to speak to him, perhaps trade spells? As he remains here, he and those defending the city may benefit from your magical knowledge. You have improved greatly in such a short time, if I may say. Perhaps even rivaling our elven friend in power..."
Irabeth
Garith will request that Aravashinal come at his first convenience to the Heart, as Garith will busy himself with Drilling and Training with the other paladins and soldiers, discussing strategies to hold the city, what with the damage to the ward-stone and magic walls. "We shall have to defend against more mundane threats now. Raiding parties that would have not breached the barrier or even been the slightest threat. The demons will be able to attack without such overwhelming forces, and may do so in attempt to wear us down in a war of attrition." He spends much time with the leadership, both learning and advising. also waiting hopefully for further word from Chief Sull
He does take time to ask Irabeth about the Dwarf Trator, Staunton Vhane. "Why would we be shown a vision of this man? What threat would he pose?"
Aravashinal In preperation for the mage's arrival he does pour ver library books for information of Areelu, Minagho, and the Storm-king as well as Hulrun. information beyond what is common knowledge.
When Aravishainal arrives garith will ask to discuss the nature of the coming threat, gather information on the likely tactics of Areelu, and Minagho, as well as what threat the Storm King poses now that Trendev is dead and the wards are down. "We also saw, in our visions, Hulrun burning witches at the stake as the second Crusade began. I do not understand what this vision portends. The other things we say clearly show the history of the wardstone and our enemies, but this one is different."
"You flatter me, Garith. I shall certainly be glad to talk over the possibility with Aravashinal."
He reaches into his supplies, "I have an old primer if you'd like to peruse it. It's more about magic theory than anything else." He offers up a thin booklet.
The monk listens carefully to Pakak's words, nodding in understanding, and taking the offered document - "Thank you friend" - he bows - "I will peruse it with care, and try to better understand what I am able to accomplish on our behalf"
"Zeriax, we've simply got to work out an arrangement for such a spell on my self when we have time to prepare for combat. I was planning on doing a little cultist-hunting while we are awaiting our next task... Perhaps we can practice this a little if you would accompany me for a little bit of reconnaissance around the city."
"Agreed friend Maelchar - we can use this time to keep our minds and bodies sharp"
As he meets Irabeth's companion, Zeriax approaches with a smile - "Well met friend Anevia - I hope your wounds have completely healed and your mobility is recovered?" - in an almost unconscious fashion he moves to hug her, the empathy derived from their ordeal underground as well after reaching the surface still very present. Yet, he keeps a disciplined, though pleasant, distance and attitude - "I know you favor the bow as your weapon of choice, and I am aware of your skill with it - even though I am not sure if you have an 'official' position in the gathered armed forces, I would offer to share my skills with any willing to learn - I have trained with the bow most of my life, and would gladly share what little I know with any that require training among the soldiers"
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While taking stock of the weapons and gear with the group, readying to get equiped for future conflicts, Garith takes up Irabeth's blade. Irabeth, this is a truly fine sword, well-made for facing out foes. I truly appreciate that you would allow us to use it. I assure many demons shall fall before this blade, if you allow me to wield it," Garith says with a nod.
"Reiko, I think this blade may be a boon to you," he says drawing the Radiance. It shines brightly, and he allows himself a moment longer to hold the legendary weapon. It feels right in his hands. He then places it reverently in Reiko's hands. It shifts its form into a magnificent Katana even as the light fades. "The Iron of this blade cuts effortlessly through Demon-skin and it will hold the form of your Katana. Will you accept this artifact, Reiko Mura, valiant crusader?"
Reiko holds Radiance across her open palms for a moment, considering the sword's mystical transformation and golden blade. It is, without doubt, a relic. She notes - with trepidation - that it glows for Garith but not for her. She says soberly, "I will caretake this blade until one more worthy to wield it comes. I will attempt to maintain its honor, even on my path of vengeance." Her one hand moves to grip the tsuka and she gives the blade a slow circular swing to learn its heft and balance. With growing confidence, she spins the katana in a series of katas before hilting it in one deft motion. The ronin gives the paladin a deep bow of gratitude. Reiko then unties her other katana and secures it in a position over her shoulder, and works Radiance into the place of honor at her hip.
Irabeth
Garith will request that Aravashinal come at his first convenience to the Heart, as Garith will busy himself with Drilling and Training with the other paladins and soldiers, discussing strategies to hold the city, what with the damage to the ward-stone and magic walls. "We shall have to defend against more mundane threats now. Raiding parties that would have not breached the barrier or even been the slightest threat. The demons will be able to attack without such overwhelming forces, and may do so in attempt to wear us down in a war of attrition." He spends much time with the leadership, both learning and advising. also waiting hopefully for further word from Chief SullHe does take time to ask Irabeth about the Dwarf Trator, Staunton Vhane. "Why would we be shown a vision of this man?...
As Garith outlines his concerns for the shattered defenses of Irabeth her face gets a somber look to it. IT is exactly as you have said Sir Garith. Many of the people that once called Kenebras home are dead or have fled. Among them are the skilled artisans that are needed to repair the walls of the city and to shore up some of the other defenses. There are those among the military that have experience in such matters but they do not have the numbers to take on such a momentous task. As big of a problem that this is what concerns me more is that the wardstone is gone. There is nothing to prevent the forces from the world wound to invade the surrounding country and move on to other ares that are less defended. At least when the wardstones were up they funneled everything to here or other points of defense. Why bother with us when they can take other juicier prizes. This is what concerns me at the moment.
As far as this Dwarf, Stauton Vhane, he used to be a crusader with us before the demons twisted him into joining their side. It is said that he has a clever mind and is a master with working with tools to engineer and twist objects into something else. Why you would be shown a picture of him I do not know unless you are destined to meet at some point.