"I think with what we've been through and what we're are about to face, a bit of levity is a good reminder to us all of what we're fighting for: The ability to live free and without fear. I'm also a priest Roscoe, though an unorthodox one, and everyone here honors the gods in their own way. We can share whatever burdens there are together; there's no need to go at it alone. We're all Terendelev's chosen remember?" Stella replied to Roscoe but giving him a reassuring smile.
"I can help sneak a small troop behind enemy lines if needed. I can help separate them while maybe also thinning their numbers a bit at the same time..." Stella offered. "If I'm able to sneak in close enough, I can manipulate the weather or the plant life itself to our advantage. I'd need some time to prepare though we want to go that route."
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Reconvening with the rest of the leaders after the scouting trip, Stella asked the advisors, “So what does this mean for our plan? Could there be more demons in the North than originally thought?”
Aron nodded, “There are definitely demons north of us. We will soon cross over into their territory…”
Sosiel added, “We need to be ready to battle or to flee. Our mounts will allow for both…”
"At what point are would we need to consider a retreat if a battle is going poorly...? Stella asked the advisors
Once all the bodies had been moved and respectfully laid outside of the destruction of the city, Stella sat in front of them and began to meditate. She never liked funerals and it always took her a bit of time to come up with what to say and to muster up the strength to start. After a few minutes, she sighed, rose and grabbed her staff; sighing again when she remembered that it had splintered when she had destroyed the Wardstone. I probably should've asked for a replacement before we left... she thought to herself before she began. You're a "commander" now, you need to be less forgetful...
Moving forward towards the bodies in front of her, she began to etch a symbol into the ground around them, unaware and uncaring if there was anyone there to see or hear her. "I am sorry that we were too late to save you all." she began solemnly, half-mumbling to herself as she worked. "And that I can't give you a proper funeral that each of you deserve. I promise though that I will not forget the price you were all forced to pay. And I will make sure they do not forget it either. When all this is said and done... I'll... I'll come back and restore these lands to what they once were. It's the least I can do for letting you all down..."
Having completed etching her symbol - two wings incased with a 5 pointed star, she continued. "Sleep well under the stars, brave souls of Valas' Gift, and let Desna guide you to Pharasma's just judgement and eternal rest in the Upper Planes." As she finished, Stella activated her starstone, allowing it power to wash over her momentarily before placing her staff into the etched symbol below her. At the staff's touch, the symbol flashed briefly with radiant light before fading away, the ritual complete. I leave it up to you now... Stella thought to her Goddess as she looked up towards the sky, more determined than ever to defeat the evils of the Worldwound once and for all.
OOC; Yeah that is the 'problem' with these battles; they are very abstract and players can't really act other than choosing a strategy and very few other things so it really just needs one person, the commander.
However, Damon is playing such that he seeks input from the rest of you.
Once the opening strategy is selected, I will roll dice and let you know how things went. I will then seek input on the 'second round' and keep going like that.
I'll probably let you all write up something (no dice rolling) based on how the battle is going.
Recapping now...
Questions?
Game on!
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Actions 2:
After listening to all the tactics and hearing the urgency in Sosiel's voice, Damon said, "It would seem we do not have the luxury of time to prepare new spells or infiltrate the bunkers to set up sniper posts if we wish to strike while their army is vulnerable. Our best approach may be just to charge an unprepared enemy with overwhelming power and force them into the river."
"I will spearhead the main charge of the heavy cavalry with shield and lance, with the goal of penetrating deeply into the enemy ranks before they can fully organize themselves, trampling and spearing them while they are yet unprepared," offered Damon, confident in the protection of Iomedae in this righteous cause.
"If we wish to force the tieflings to the west so they are caught between the river and our steel, we will need to spread our line to channel them that direction and dispatch any who survive the opening volleys and cavalry charge. We will need leaders for the left and right flanks to keep the enemy contained," asked Damon, planning to use the expert flanking capability of their army to full advantage. He looked to Aron, Kokam, and Roscoe for their thoughts on who should take the lead here.
"We will also need those who come behind the cavalry charge, healing our wounded and putting down any enemy who makes it through our line," he added, looking to Stella and Sosiel for leadership in this area.
"Finally, we need someone with mastery of the signal horn and a keen appreciation for battle to send the signals for the loosing of arrows and the charging of cavalry, keeping morale up, and communicating of any changes in tactics." invited Damon, looking to Nurah and Hallvardr for their thoughts.
To summarize for Round 1:
- Ranged combat is +10 OM, 16 DV against any enemy ranged attacks (Expert Flankers applies).
- Melee combat is +12 OM and +3 damage with the cavalry charge and 14 DV against the enemy melee counterattack (Expert Flankers and Aggressive Strategy applies).
[ooc]Action #2
Stella wasn't trained for war. If the advisors thought that attacking as soon as possible was the best course of action, then she would listen to them. "Put me wherever you think I'll be most useful." Stella shared with Damon and the others, "I'll do whatever I can to assist. She then listened carefully as their plan was finalized, doing her best to not let her mind wander to her capabilities - or lack their of - for the upcoming battle.
Before the battle was to commence Hallvardr spent some time among the archers. He'd have rathered to be part of the charge but in this battle? The need was for the archers to do their job AND do it well. He waved over Aron and Roscoe.
I can inspire a handful of archers to be more accurate but if you two can bless some of the others as well? Why then, we can all but guarantee there won't be many wasted arrows... and we need every arrow to find its mark. Then I figure we can run in AFTER the charge to try to disrupt any of the bastards trying to encircle our knights. What say you?
Kokam listens to all of the discussions and advice from the Queen's advisors, then offers her own opinion, "Strike hard and fast, before they know we're here and can prepare. Suprise and dismay at our arrival should win us the day!"
Later, she thinks where she might prove most useful. Glancing over at Damon giving orders and looking the part, she feels what Roscoe talked about....a bit out of place in the midst of the army.
Then a few Paladins with whom she'd practiced happened by and asked her to join them on the left flank! Flattered, she agreed and went to advise the others of her choice, "I will go on the left flank and assist there."
OOC: as an option to get everyone more involved... (and sort of what Stella hinted at in the post above).
You may describe your actions and roll, if required, to see 'how good' your results are and to guide your posts.
I will then take your actions into consideration and adjust your 'damage'. For example, I may add 1 point of damage if Hal and Roscoe 'inspire and bless' some of the archers.
I have to be careful because I don't want to overcount the actions of 'individuals' when it comes to affecting 'armies'.
Questions?
Game on!
When the subject of the camp of Tieflings comes up and people start talking strategy. "I'm with Hal. This isn't wrestling. We need to know if the measure up to us or if we are at a disadvantage sure. But the bigger question is do they know there is another army in the region? Is the camp well organized? Is there a breach or a point in the camp that we could get at easy? Is the design of their tents such that they could easily serve as nets for those sleeping in them?"
When Hal waved him over Roscoe, "What's up?"
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After all the planning and preparation, Damon took his place at the point of the cavalry wedge, Nurah directly behind him and flanked by the first row of paladins. ”Quite an introduction to my first large scale battle, Wouldn’t you say, Nurah?” he queried nervously, ”Do you have any advice for me?”
Damon could never quite put into words the feeling of leading off the army at the point of the wedge, but soon the plan unfolded around him. Spreading wide, the flanks maneuvered to contain the enemy and the cavalry broke into a trot. Accelerating into a canter as the enemy encampment took form before them, Damon forsook the longbow for a more familiar weapon. Holding his javelin tightly, he nearly jumped out of his skin when the horn sounded, loud and clear from Nurah behind him!
They were in bow range, and the paladins filled the skies with arrows as the distracted Tiefling rose to see what the noise was about. Damon’s field of vision narrowed as he and Magnus operated as one, making sure not to outrun his flanks. Then he saw it—a Tiefling scout with a horn, prepared to signal his own troops inhaled and brought the horn to his lips. Damon threw his javelin at the foe, praying that Iomedae made his aim true and the Tieflings would remain in disarray as they attacked!
The javelin pierced the Tiefling’s side as a bow shot further down the wedge pierced his skull, and the enemy signal horn never sounded! Damon had just enough time to bring his Lance into position before breaking into a gallop, leading the cavalry charge into the heart of the enemy with a fearsome cry on his lips, “For Kenabres!”
The thunder of their approach was a storm, and their strikes were as lightning. The cavalry charge tore through the Tieflings like wet paper, and many fell beneath their lances and hooves!
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After all the planning and preparation, Damon took his place at the point of the cavalry wedge, Nurah directly behind him and flanked by the first row of paladins. ”Quite an introduction to my first large scale battle, Wouldn’t you say, Nurah?” he queried nervously, ”Do you have any advice for me?”
Damon could never quite put into words the feeling of leading off the army at the point of the wedge, but soon the plan unfolded around him. Spreading wide, the flanks maneuvered to contain the enemy and the cavalry broke into a trot. Accelerating into a canter as the enemy encampment took form before them, Damon forsook the longbow for a more familiar weapon. Holding his javelin tightly, he nearly jumped out of his skin when the horn sounded, loud and clear from Nurah behind him!
They were in bow range, and the paladins filled the skies with arrows as the distracted Tiefling rose to see what the noise was about. Damon’s field of vision narrowed as he and Magnus operated as one, making sure not to outrun his flanks. Then he saw it—a Tiefling scout with a horn, prepared to signal his own troops inhaled and brought the horn to his lips. Damon threw his javelin at the foe, praying that Iomedae made his aim true and the Tieflings would remain in disarray as they attacked!
[dice=Javelin attack]1d20+6
[dice=Javelin Damage]1d6+3The javelin pierced the Tiefling’s side as a bow shot further down the wedge pierced his skull, and the enemy signal horn never sounded! Damon had just enough time to bring his Lance into position before breaking into a gallop, leading the cavalry charge into the heart of the enemy with a fearsome cry on his lips, “For Kenabres!”
[dice=Lance Attack]1d20+6
[dice=Lance Damage]1d12+6
[dice=Hoof Attack]1d20+6
[dice=Hoof Damage]2d6+4
[dice=Hoof Crit Damage]2d6The thunder of their approach was a storm, and their strikes were as lightning. The cavalry charge tore through the Tieflings like wet paper, and...
OOC: Excellent stuff. Exactly what I am looking for. Please take inspiration.
I think this makes the 'battles' more interesting for everyone. However, rest assured, a battle won't go more than 2-3 turn recaps before I seek 'real individual actions' from the PCs.
I intend to move things along later today.
Questions?
Game on!
With the plan decided upon, the camp became a whirl of activity as paladins moved about, preparing for their first fight. She could feel the nervous energy hovering in the air as she moved across the camp and did her best to not let that energy effect her too much. She caught glimpses of the others now and then preparing and finalizing strategies with the advisors and other paladins and left them to their work before finding Aron and confirming where it would be best for her to be situated to help heal when needed. With that determined. She went to her horse that was given to her and moved to the rear of the army and waited.
When everyone was properly situated, the few moments waiting for the call to charge were worse than she could've possibly imagined. Luckily though, after about a minute or so, the cavalry began to move, followed shortly by a volley of arrows and a full charge into the tiefling army's midst. After making a silent prayer to Desna for her friends to stay safe, Stella followed along with the rear guard, ready to assist however she was needed.
Roscoe had never served in a military unit he stuck close to Hal. Using his sling with the archers. Using firebolt when necessary healing those in need. Serving harassment to the enemy and aid to allies. He quickly and rather naturally settled into a support role. An opportunistic striker.
Read the OOC.
Questions, comments, and/or suggestions?
Game on!
16 points of damage is enough to obliterate the army of tiefling (DV 12; 9 hp) but I'll roll for the melee phase just for kicks
5+3 hit points of damage would have left the tiefling army with 1 hp
I'm not rolling for their melee...
, the Viking howled in exaltation as the arrows landed among the unsuspecting foe, reaping a harvest of death and injury. The beginning of this large scale battle whipped his normal excitement at facing combat into something almost like a cresting orgasm. He revelled in the carnage as the lowered lances came down to pierce the enemy ranks like an oncoming wave, screaming in joy even as the enemy screamed in pain and terror as they were crushed under hooves.
, he screamed, waving the archers into the fray, lest they miss out on the killing all together. The archers waded into the chaos left in the Calvary's wake, cutting down those more desperate or organised who tried to recover from the shock of the charge.
GORUM! Behold this sacrament of battle!, Hallvardr yelled to the heavens as he cut down a twisted hybrid of demon and man, barely feeling a retaliatory flash of flame that emanated from it as it died, still mouthing a Paean to its evil gods. The Northman turned and plunged Deathwand into the face of another tiefling as it struggled to rise, heedless of the broken lance impaling it's shoulder.
The ebb and flow of the conflict felt as natural as breathing to him, and he strode among the fighting and fallen as he willed seeking a more worthy foe. Then was his devotion rewarded! Like a revelation to a prophet, Hallvardr saw the heaving mass of horses and combatants part and beheld the demon!
A growl amidst the rending of metal and flesh as it tore a knight apart, a crash of earth, as the knights steed was hurled to the ground heralded its presence in the battle. Suddenly Hallvardr found himself charging the defiled leader of the unholy band. Its rugged head sat atop a massive, fibrous body. Dark, smoking symbols covered its chest, but the Viking dared not allow his eyes to linger on its depravity for long. Dodging the flung remnants of the dead knight he leaped at his foe, cursing it with a dire níðing even as closed the distance. The Viking shrieked in ecstasy as Deathwand bit deeply into its guts, even as the demon shattered his shield and likely his arm in return...
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Actions 3:
Suddenly there were no more enemies before them and the river came into view past the stout buildings along its edge. Magnus wheeled about and Damon reached out with his senses for the presence of Evil.
There it was, in that last remaining clump of tieflings around the large fire pit, the demon! Charging ahead at the evil creature, Damon lowered his lance at the it and noted to his satisfaction that an entire echelon of paladins had followed his lead, encircling the demon with lances pointed threateningly.
The heavily-muscled goat-headed demon was wreathed in fire and smoke, its heavy blade held out in front of it defensively. "Lay down your arms and surrender, demon. You are defeated." stated Damon confidently, hoping they could get some useful information out of this miserable creature.
Just at that moment, the demon leapt into action and attacked one of the paladins with a savage ferocity! Taken by surprise, the man was torn apart. Before Damon could even react, Hallvardr came crashing into the ring of lances, slashing at the ferocious demon and the battle was joined!
, the Viking howled in exaltation as the arrows landed among the unsuspecting foe, reaping a harvest of death and injury. The beginning of this large scale battle whipped his normal excitement at facing combat into something almost like a cresting orgasm. He revelled in the carnage as the lowered lances came down to pierce the enemy ranks like an oncoming wave, screaming in joy even as the enemy screamed in pain and terror as they were crushed under hooves.
, he screamed, waving the archers into the fray, lest they miss out on the killing all together. The archers waded into the chaos left in the Calvary's wake, cutting down those more desperate or organised who tried to recover from the shock of the charge.
GORUM! Behold this sacrament of battle!, Hallvardr yelled to the heavens as he cut down a twisted hybrid of demon and man, barely feeling a retaliatory flash of flame that emanated from it as it died, still mouthing a Paean to its evil gods. The Northman turned and plunged Deathwand into the face of another tiefling as it struggled to rise, heedless of the broken lance impaling it's shoulder.
The ebb and flow of the conflict felt as natural as breathing to him, and he strode among the fighting and fallen as he willed seeking a more worthy foe. Then was his devotion rewarded! Like a revelation to a prophet, Hallvardr saw the heaving mass of horses and combatants part and beheld the demon!
A growl amidst the rending of metal and flesh as it tore a knight apart, a crash of earth, as the knights steed was hurled to the ground heralded its presence in the battle. Suddenly Hallvardr found himself charging the defiled leader of the unholy band. Its rugged head sat atop a massive, fibrous body. Dark, smoking symbols covered its chest, but the Viking dared not allow his eyes to linger on its depravity for long. Dodging the flung remnants of the dead knight he leaped at his foe, cursing it with a dire níðing even as...
OOC: Nice Hal! Please take inspiration as well.
I think next time, I will roll and give you the results so you can write out what's happening in the battle.
Questions?
Game on!
Kokam stood among her new Paladin friends, each of them competently adjusting straps on shields and armor and saddle. All of the were calm, composed...confident. While Kokam was filled with doubt. Fighting one on one with her friends was one thing...
She looked about and while some lips were moving in silent prayer, most of the holy warriors around her held a serene visage, a certainty that they did their diety's will. Kokam hearkened back to her bold statement to the Queen as to her own peity. She was chagrined at her boastfulness in the face of the faith that surrounded her. She inwardly vowed to emulate these holy warriors both in mind and spirit!
A sussurus flowed through the flank, the center was moving. A hand was extended to her, and she was helped up behind one of her friends. Now higher, she could look right and see the center , led by Damon, his gleaming sword held high, surging forward. Her heart leapt into her throat...she was feeling...love, certainly...but pride as well, that her friend could undertake such a thing!
The sky grew dark with arrows arching high up and falling unerringly among the tiefling army. Soon the left flank began to move forward, the steeds slowly gaining pace, but holding back to allow the center to do it work and force those of the enemy fleeing this way to do so.
Then the thunder of hooves rattled Kokam to the core as the left flank surged forward , arcing in to surround and cut off escape.
Seeing the enemy ahead, Kokam rose and gained her feet , crouching as the dark mass of Demon-worshippers loomed ahead. Adjusting her stance to the stallion's smooth gallop, Kokam waited until the force was just about to hit the massed enemy, and leapt!
Up and over the line, to land behind a red-scaled tielfling trying to fend off the charge. With a quick thrust of her spear, Kokam dispatched the foe, then moved on, spinning and leaping from enemy to enemy, helping the Paladins mop up the remnants of the opposing army.
The tide of war brought her closer to the center, where she caught sight of Damon, armor covered in gore, confronting the Demon general.
Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Hallvardr sprinting towards the 'meeting'. It had attacked!
With a grin cracking her own gore covered face, Kokam raced forward , not wanting her friends to have all of the fun!
Sprinting hard, Kokam ran up a large pile of slain demons and tieflings, and leapt up into the air towards the demon general, spear held high above her head as she descended towards its scabrous back...
Maybe things will work out alright... Stella thought to herself as her horse trotted down towards the remains of the skirmish that had just occurred. Even to her untrained eye, Stella could tell that the battle was there's relatively quickly; everything else was just a formality. That being said, there were still those were were injured during the assault and she had a job to do. Dismounting her horse, she touched her starstone for luck before walking through the makeshift triage area for those that were wounded in some capacity. Most were minor and she was certain she'd be able to heal them all with with relative ease. As she worked, the familiar routine of healing seemed to relieve the last of her nerves or self doubt she had previously.
That was shattered though when a roar in the distance put her on high alert. Thinking of her friends, she quickly ran to the source of the noise to find Hallvarðr engaged in combat with the demon leader! Spotting the dead paladin torn into two on the side and Kokam streaking forward, Stella activated her Starry Form in a powerful flash of light and charged forward into the fray. Doing her best to work in tandem with the monk and the nearly ecstatic Viking, she launched three blasts of power - Fire, Frost & Starfire - at the leader whenever there was an opening or it looked like the Demon get ahold of the Skald.
The battle raged around and thankfully before Roscoe. He watches as the heavy horse tore into the enemy. He dropped stone after stone into his sling trying to keep pace with the archers. He kept as many as he could standing and blessed. Healing a young paladin he lifted the man up by the collar to a sitting position. "We worship different gods but we have the same foe. Get your feet and make these fiends fear this land as you would the abyss. Send them home!"
Long out of stones he stood with the archers rapier drawn as they fired their arrows, knowing soon that the enemy and their own would be mixed together. As the arrows flew over his head he called out to them. "The horse boys have had their fun. The god's we serve reward those would dare the hazard. Do you Dare!?!" He ran with the lighter armed men into the crush their swifter feet carried them faster than he could move but he pushed with them. He caught sight of a paladin torn apart. The shock of it was disturbing. He heard Hal war cry and looked for the viking. There he was slamming into the same Demon. "There is one who dares." Roscoe ran toward the fray. His path was irregular. Wherever he moved needling here and there between friends and into foes.
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The fearsome demon was equaled in rage by the skald before him and in sheer battle skill by the monk leaping at its back, but it wasn't done yet. With a cry of pure savagery it lurched forward to claw at Hallvardr's unshielded side...only to meet Damon's own stout shield. Interposing himself between the injured skald's flank and the demon's fury, the paladin reached back and healed Hallvardr's savaged arm with a touch and a prayer as skald and monk hacked and thrust into the demon's flesh from opposite sides of its monstrous body!
After healing his comrade, Damon drew Radiance from its sheath, and even in the demon's bloodlust and agony, it recoiled from the blade's holy light, yet it fought on with the desperation of a cornered wolverine.
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Go Back to HELL!, Hallvardr bellowed as the unholy monstrosity recoiled from the from Damon and the brandished holy sword. Jerking his own blade free of its steaming entrails, Gorum's servant violently shoved Deathwand upwards through its lower jaw and into its brain, even as Kokam was driving her spear into the base of its skull. Shuddering, it swept its arm over the crouched halfling, opening its chest to a cunning thrust from Caydens champion.
It reeled then crashed to the earth, even as Stella lashed it with Desna's wrath, ensuring it would never rise again.
The Viking stool atop the demonic corpse, brandished his weapon to the heavens, and roared BEHOLD! in a religious rapture of adrenaline fuelled ecstasy.
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Panting Hallvardr stepped off the demons remains and prepared for the grim work that was needful after battle. He went to sheath Deathwand and found that the first foot of the fine steel blade had broken off inside the skull bones of his enemy, and the site near the break itself was corroded... doubtless some juices within the fell creatures brains had eaten away at and weakened the magnificent work of swordsmithing.
To some, hell, to most, this was normal occurrence. Weapons broke. It was as simple as that. To a worshipper of Gorum? A broken weapon was sometimes an omen of divine displeasure... and it was a chord of unease that cut through the pleasure of post battle glow. Perhaps more was required of him? Had he erred? Or was this mere chance? A simple misfortune of battle?
The Viking looked about him looking for stones to make a cairn, a shrine to Gorum that was typically an organized pile of rocks marked with a helmet or blade, to commemorate his first real battle and as an offering to his God. His searches bought him past a wounded Paladin kneeling next to the mangled torso of the one who the demon had torn in twain.
He died well, Hallvardr said for whatever comfort he was able to give, He stood against an enemy far greater than himself and did it for home, family and those who he swore to defend... Pharasma will speed him on his way, and if Iomedae does not take him? Gorum will, and gladly.
The mourner wiped tears from her eyes and stood shaking but resolute.
How was he named?, Hal asked.
Valetius, came the wooden muted reply.
The Viking looked down at the remains of his own shattered shield, still strapped to his forearm, and shook it off. He bent and collected the shield of fallen Valetius, its device obscured by mud and gore.
If you think it not an insult or against your ways? I would honour him by carrying his shield. I would remember his bravery. What say you?
Valetius' companion considered the request gravely but then she nodded. My brother would likely appreciate that. May you bear it to better fortune than it bought him. A sisters blessing and that of the Lady of Valor be with you Northman. If you would help me collect and bring in his remains, I would be in grateful.
Needing two trips Lucculeia, for such was her name, and Hallvardr were able to bear the fallen warrior to his last resting site, along side that of other. In truth, a double handful of wounded - all now being healed by magic and two killed was a fortunate victory indeed. As they commenced funerary rites, he slipped away to gather stones, coming back to the demon. Another Paladin was attempting to drag an ugly iron blade from the dead monsters body.
Gods above! This weighs more than a battle maul, the Paladin swore, struggling against it.
The idea that the weapon would make a suitable offering to be laid on the cairn appealed to the Viking. Then I will bear it away for you. See to your other duties, he offered with more than a steely hint of command in his voice, shooing the man away.
Patiently, rock upon rock he built a shrine to Gorum, then returned to the iron sword. It was the length of a Longsword, its width broader than most, and its hilt elongated somewhat to accommodate a broader grip. Apart from some unrusted corrosion the blade was unmarked and its edge seemed dull. The weapon felt almost... brooding, yet not malevolent. He bent to pick it up and was surprised to find that its weight was that, if not lighter, than Deathwand! Holding the iron blade in his left hand, he drew the broken Deathwand with his right, mentally weighing the two weapons and their significance. He then placed Deathwand on the cairn in place of the iron blade.
In truth Gorum did not care who won any fight, only taking satisfaction as long as there was battle. If Gorum saw fit for Hallvardr to carry it, the weapon of a fallen foe? So be it!
Lord in Iron, he intoned, behold You this shrine, and offering, from Your servant in this life and in the life of endless battle to come, and allow me to dedicate this sword to Your service. Long may it see battle in your name!
And in response to his prayer, the black pitted Iron of the blade began to bleed...
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Actions 2:
Having used all of his healing touch during the battle with the demon, the young paladin left the battlefield cleanup to the others and focused on the low buildings by the river, hoping against hope that there might be survivors hiding or imprisoned by the cultists in the buildings.
Joining Sosiel and Nurah, he kept his blade ready in case there were also pockets of cultists who hid from the battle and would try to fight their way out if discovered. As he searched, he spoke with Sosiel, saying, "Your advice was excellent and Iomedae was truly with us this day. How many brave paladins did we lose in the battle?"
To Nurah, he said, "I know not if the demon was a general, but it fought quite fiercely with no attempt at negotiation. Is this what we should expect of the forces in Drezen, or are their leaders there more cunning?"
OOC: Ok, I'll move things along tomorrow if no one else posts.
Questions?
Game on!
There was a stillness in the air that lingered after the five of them defeated the enemy leader in such a coordinated and efficient manner. She couldn't quite explain the feeling, but she sensed that any who had seen their display would probably see them in a bit of a different light from now on. It's one thing to be told that the five of them were unique in one way or another, it's another thing entirely to see it first hand. What they were able to do at times was simply... unnatural; and it always seemed to catch her a bit off guard whenever she experienced one of those moments.
But to Stella, a bit to her displeasure as she watched Damon and Hallvardr begin to quickly mill about with whatever needed to be done, fights like this last one were becoming much too commonplace. She knew now that this was what Desna had always had in store for her when she was sent up North, but it did not mean she would ever get completely used to them either. And now marching off to war to seize a city?! What had her life turned into?!? It seemed every time she started to get comfortable with whatever new thing was happening to or around her, she would remember the full extent of her situation and began a downward mental spiral she had never experienced beforehand.
Unnatural... Unnatural...
The thought that they were, that she was, unnatural in some way lingered in her mind as the post-battle recovery process began in earnest and she moved in an unknown direction barely paying attention to anyone or anything around her.
Realizing where her mind was going, she stopped abruptly in the middle of the street and slapped her hands, hard, to her cheeks. Get it together Stella!! she shouted mentally to herself. Looking around to see the surprised faces of the few paladins who she only now realized were walking with her, she looked at them a bit sheepishly and said, "Just something I do to make sure I haven't lost sensation anywhere..." she lied. Then deciding to double-down on her proclamation, she began to tap, smack and bop everywhere across her body in a routine that to the outside observer looked like a woman gone mad or deep in her drink. But to Stella, as she moved about, slowly started to feel better. Perhaps it was simply doing something silly or foolish and letting off some steam that was improving her mood. Or maybe for the first time in awhile, she felt a bit like her old self once again. Either way, as she finished her "routine" to the delight and bewilderment of those around her, she felt like she knew what she needed to do going forward.
As Stella walked back with the other paladins toward the triage area, unable to hold in her laughter as she watched a few of them flail around in an attempt to imitate her, she felt a warm glow inside of her. War would never be normal for her and she knew that there were going to be many difficult times ahead. But she felt strangely at ease. Her cheerfulness and positivity that she had partially departed he the day Kenabres fell was slowly returning in full; hopefully it would be enough to help keep her and friends going even during the darkest of times.
OOC: No argument from me. I just thought it might make for an interesting post since this is a paladin army.
Questions?
Game on!
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Actions 2:
When they came across survivors, Damon strode forward and greeted their leader, saying, "The demon general is dead and his forces killed or captured. The Knights of Kenabres have arrived to wrest this land back from the demonic foulness that has tainted it, and it gladdens my heart to see some of you yet live. I am Damon, who are you?"
After being introduced and hearing her story, Damon responds, "Sergeant Dann, the Queen has sent us north from Kenabres to vanquish the evil we might find here, but news of Vilareth Ford's fall will come as no surprise, as Valas' Gift was destroyed as well."
Sensing the shame in her heart, Damon reached out with his senses to try and detect if any demons or their worshippers had infiltrated their ranks (Divine Sense plus ). He then continued, "You were overmatched here and defeated, but you kept the remnant alive. There is no shame in losing, only in giving up the fight. I ask that you and your charges join our army and replenish our ranks, as several brave knights gave their lives so that we might continue in our quest."
Reaching out and curing the wounds of the nearest injured soldier ( ), Damon said, "We can cure your wounds and equip you with the combat gear of the fallen and whatever spares and equipment we can find here. Come, speak with me and we will plan to pay back the demons for what they have done in this place."
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Returning to the scene of the battle after freeing the prisoners and speaking with their leader, Damon strode up to his friends and related the glad news of survivors found, especially those who might replenish their ranks. Seeing Hallvardr stalking around the tiefling survivors carrying the demon's blade, Damon stopped and considered a moment before speaking to him.
Once again searching for a taint of evil in the area--including this blade, Damon tried to ascertain if his friend were under the influence of the evil embedded in a weapon which had undoubtedly spilled the blood of many innocents (Divine Sense and ).
Assuming Hallvardr is of sound mind, Damon said, "I see you wield a powerful weapon, though its aspect is dark. Take care that its darkness does not pervade your soul and claim you for its own."
Turning to look at the tieflings, he asks the others, "What would you have us do with the prisoners? A clean and swift death for those who will not renounce their allegiance to the demons, certainly, but what of those who might be redeemed?"
Damon said, "I see you wield a powerful weapon, though its aspect is dark. Take care that its darkness does not pervade your soul and claim you for its own."
Turning to look at the tieflings, he asks the others, "What would you have us do with the prisoners? A clean and swift death for those who will not renounce their allegiance to the demons, certainly, but what of those who might be redeemed?"
The weapon? It is a gift of Gorum, and well omened, Hallvardr said. Behold the sign of His divine favour!, he proclaimed while running his hand along the body of the blade and displaying a bloodied hand. I respect Iomedae and this cause. It is why I trekked many leagues to be here but Gorum does not focus on the 'Good' or 'Evil' of a battle or who fights on what side... merely that the battle takes place, nor cares He about the weapons used. Your ways and the ways of the Inheritor, are not those of the Ulfen and Gorum. When you do, you will understand this blade is a boon. I trust in The Lord in Iron that He would not show thus His Favour if this weapon meant ill to me..
He held up the blade admiringly before flicking it back to his side, leaving faint splatters of blood in the dirt
It deserves a name. I think I will call it... Höfuðlausn, or "Heads Ransom", as Deathwand was broken trying to take its head, or at least dig out its brain.
Hallvardr then saw the concern still etched in Damon's face. The Viking could not casually disregard the warning on one such as he... and as wisdom started to prevail over his excitement of claiming Heads Ransom he also considered that perhaps Damon might care beyond that which was normal at the situation. A brotherly warning then. This weighed more heavily.
That said? I trust you too. If I feel something amiss? I will tell you... my oath on it.
The Northman turned to regard the prisoners.
Gorum is not opposed to surrender and the taking of prisoners but in this case? We needs move fast, cannot dispatch men to escort them back for a proper trial... and they are clearly demon worshippers in the presence of a demon. A quick clean death, with whatever speedy trial you wish to engage in seems best. Let's incorporate those other knights... they'll come in handy.
"Redemption is not opposed to justice. Ask the prisoners if the tieflings deserve death. If so swift a death and a reminder that even in their last moments they can turn from their crimes. Perhaps the gods of good and life will have mercy on them for their demon masters they have failed will not."
When the news of the canyon comes up Roscoe raises a finger, "Ahhh did you say IN the canyon. Can we take the ridge. I mean. The high ground is a benefit in the field. From the top of the cliff we can harass them at range."
"I don't know if I should be disturbed or impressed with your new weapon Hal." Stella began after she had rejoined the others once she had healed all she could. "But if you believe it's a good omen, then I guess congratulations are in order! Though the name is a bit of a mouthful. Just try not to bloody us too much when you fight near us." she teased afterwards.
When the discussion turned to the captured soldiers, she let the others take charge as they seemed to have the situation well-under control. Though she would've preferred to spare all those who had surrendered, she knew they were right and could not slow themselves down with captives as they moved towards Drezen.
As the battle waned, Kokam stood and rolled her shoulders, trying to relieve the ache she felt there...and all over. She shared a smile with her friends, and went to say something to Damon, but he'd already moved on...talking with some of the other Paladins.
Action #1
She contented herself with observing Hallvadr's new sword, commenting "A powerful omen indeed, you are truly blessed by Gorum!" . She knew of Gorum, growing up among the Kellid tribes, he was a fierce God, she had not doubt of her friend's worth in His eyes.
Her eyes turned to her own weapons, her trusty spear. A pang of envy came and went, as the words of her Elder came to her, Some that follow our path eschew the use of weapons entirely, their hands and feet become like steel and stone....
The thought comforted her, though she doubted she'd achieve such lofty heights. As she picked up her spear, the thought occured to her that the oak that gave up a branch to make this weapon, would be proud of the foes it had helped destroy.
Action #2
Kokam ponders the question of what to do with the prisoners, offering her conclusion, "Though they would undoubtedly not offer such mercy, we must hold ourselves to a higher standard. With Damon's divine insight, we can see which of them are truly remorseful and might be spared. The others, we can only guarantee them a quick end. We must not tarry..."
Roscoe shrugged, "Seems that folks could be remorseful, willing to repent and there might still be a requirement justice expects. What do I know my god only has job based on an audacious drunken dare."
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With the difficult work of dispensing with the lost souls accomplished, Damon spoke with the young tieflings, saying with conviction, "This is your new chance to have a different life, a better one. The choices you make now are your own; choose wisely. You have passed the trial, yet you must still be punished for the harm you facilitated following the demons. For the remainder of this campaign, you will attend to Sergeant Dann and her knights, replacing every cruelty visited on her charges with a kindness now brought about by your renewed hearts."
"I will be watching you, as will many others. Stay true to your new path, and when the battles are over and we have been blessed with victory, you will be released from your service to live your life as you see fit," added the young paladin. "Oh and one more thought--we may encounter those forced to serve the demons who would wish to have a chance at redemption as you have been given. I can think of no more fitting service you could render than to guide these lost souls along the path to the light, so they may enjoy the same chance you have been given," he finished, remanding them into Kamilo's custody.
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Actions 1:
Somberly taking in the change in scenery and the long shadow cast by the influence of the Worldwound, Damon kept up his spirits by speaking with each of his friends in turn as they traveled, taking the opportunity to check in with them and enjoying their company as he rode along on the magnificent Magnus.
Still as they plunged deeper and deeper into enemy territory, Damon did not seem surprised when news of the next foe ahead arrived.
Actions 2:
Turning to his friend, Damon said, "Roscoe, your idea of claiming the high ground and raining arrows from above seems good to me, at least for part of our forces. We will need to scout out paths to the ridges if they exist, as well as get details of the army we may be facing in order to best plan for the upcoming battle."
To the scouts, he asked, "Aron, what did you see of an occupying army? Where are they camping and were they within bowshot of the canyon walls?"
As the strategic situation begins to come into focus, Damon asked Sosiel, "What do you think of our chances? What battle strategy would you recommend?"
When the news of the canyon comes up Roscoe raises a finger, "Ahhh did you say IN the canyon. Can we take the ridge. I mean. The high ground is a benefit in the field. From the top of the cliff we can harass them at range."
Seeing the tieflings in front of her, Stella couldn't help but think of Onyx a bit and how he could've been among the group in front of them in another life. Resolving to watch over them and aid in their redemption, Stella spent the next few days as they traveled learning their names and their stories as well as treating them as she would any other rather than as prisoners. She also kept an eye on the paladins in charge of their watch, making sure they were treated with respect and not abused or harassed in some way.
As the army began to travel through the outskirts of the Worldwound, Stella couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness at the desolateness around her. She could only imagine how much worse it was at the heart of the madness. Turning to the advisors and her friends, she asked, "Do you think theses lands will be able to recover if we recapture Drezen? Do you think there's any hope at all for theses lands to be remotely whole?"
"Can you also share what the current layout of "Keeper's Canyon" is and how one might enter or exit the place?" Stella added.