Akiros Ismort's page

And, with all of that, I must now make an announcement I'm finding it quite difficult to make. I'm sure some, if not all of you won't be too surprised though as it's been coming on slowly for some time now.

I'm taking an indefinite leave from PbP.

I've been playing these wonderful games online for seven or eight years now, and they have brought me an immense amount of fun, creative challenge, entertainment and inspired flights of fancy. I simply do not have the words to express my deep gratitude for each and every one of my fellow players, and most especially all the hard working GMs I have had the great pleasure and privilege to game with. Thank you all, so incredibly much.

While I still do very much enjoy these games and collaborative creative fiction, upon some deep reflection, over some time now, I feel I need to concentrate my energies in some different directions. Now is the time for it.

It also seems like a perfect time to leave Akiros to your tender mercies. Please do take good care of him. I have honestly loved writing him.

I may be back! I just have no idea when, or if at all. I am sure I'll still skulk around and keep abreast of the game though. So please keep up the stellar writing!

I consider you all friends, and I wish you all the very best. Thanks for putting up with me all these years!

Fare thee well, my boon companions and, as the Elvish saying goes,
"Merry meet, merry part, and merry meet again!"

Frustrated beyond measure at his inability to even see their foe let alone target it, Akiros has Kydal step over to the still enlarged Nikolai. Passing over his bow to the Dragon Lord Akiros says quietly, yet with strength "Here, my friend, take this, and end this chapter of evil once and for all."

Hands over MW Comp Longbow(+2 Str dam). There's also 4 +1 Feybane arrows, if those will help at all.

'It all happens so fast' the thought flashes through Akiros' mind. An experienced warrior of near countless battles, a hero, many would say, and still the speed of battle sometimes amazed him. Not that any would ever know it, from his inscrutable features. Still, it was almost beyond belief. One moment, Nikolai is in his power, swinging his flaming greatsword, and Hargulka is roaring his might, intimidating nearly all before him. The next moment, Nikolai is down, bleeding out and nearly dead, and Berrin is straddling Hargulka's corpse, weeping over his nearly dead horse. It would be near impossible for those who had never experienced it to truly understand how rapidly the whole world could change in an eyeblink on the field of battle.

Nevertheless, Akiros is a trained warrior, and he has experienced such lightning vagaries of fate many times. Thus, is he able to react at nearly the speed of thought as well. Checking the swing he had hoped would take of Hargulka's head, the battle cleric instead slips off of Kydal, dropping his sword and coming to his knees beside Nikolai's torn and bleeding form. Placing his hand on the Dragon Lord's chest, Akiros calls out to his Goddess "Iomeade, grant Your servant Your blessing to keep this man upon the mortal coil!" and then whispers quietly "You're not allowed to die, again, yet, Nik you old #$%#@$#, you've still got far too much to do..."

CLW: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9

Round 2, Initiative 9
hp 65/65; AC 27/15T/25FF
20CMD; +8F/+5R/+9W (+2 vs Fear)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: Protection from Evil (8 rounds), Haste, Keen Edge
Effects: Challenge vs Nagraundi,-2AC vs all other foes

Kydal
AC 25,16,21 +*Mobility (+4AC vs AoO's)*
hp 46/46
Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +6
CMD 23 (27 vs. trip)
Buffs: Protection from Evil (9 rounds)
Effects: Total Defence +4AC (not included above)

Akiros was human. He felt fear. He had felt it many times throughout his life. So, when Hargulka roars with the full extent of his ferocity and prowess, Akiros feels it, as fear weakens his limbs.

However, until fairly recently, until his reunion with his Goddess, Akiros had long been accustomed to relying on himself. He had been alone warrior, Ronin. A warrior who called no man master, but yet held fast to his own, personal, code of honour. It was that code that had allowed him to remain loyal to the man who had saved his life, Nikolai the Stag Lord, despite their vast moral differences.

Now, it was this code, this willpower, this deep resolve, which allowed Akiros to overcome his fear. Thus, through sheer force of will, Akiros banishes his fear, places it beyond himself, to a place it cannot affect him. The weakness and unsteadiness in his limbs gone as if it had never been, the Battle Oracle tightens his jaw and commands his valiant steed to move into position to flank with the others against this fearsome foe.

Trained well in the ways of war, Kydal goes on full defence, protecting himself against the Troll King's fearsome claws.

SA: Akiros uses Resolve/Determined
Move to: E-F/10-11
Kydal: Total Defence

Round 1, Initiative 9
hp 65/65; AC 27/15T/25FF
20CMD; +8F/+5R/+9W (+2 vs Fear)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: Protection from Evil (10 rounds), Haste, Keen Edge
Effects: Challenge vs Nagraundi,-2AC vs all other foes

Kydal
AC 25,16,21 +*Mobility (+4AC vs AoO's)*
hp 46/46
Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +6
CMD 23 (27 vs. trip)
Buffs: Protection from Evil (10 rounds)
Effects:

As the party slows and approaches their foe, and insults and challenges are thrown back and forth, borrowing Verik's wand Akiros calls down Iomeade's protection upon both himself and Kydal.
Casts Protection from Evil 2X

As the Founders begin and position and prepare themselves for battle against the Hargulka Akiros feels the now familiar magics of Elsir descend upon him. Through subtle touch and emotion, the Marshal of Newhaven causes Kydal to race around to flank the fearsome troll. The intelligent warhorse carries his rider close enough to be able to attack with a bow but far enough to avoid with long reach of their doomed enemy. As they move, Akiros takes the measure of Hargulka and calls out to him, the derision and challange clear in his strong, iron hard voice "You were told, troll King, and you made your choice. You were given the option for mercy, far more so than you deserve. Yet, unsurprisingly, you chose to continue in your evil ways. Now, you shall face Justice, and you shall die alone and unmourned, as is your just reward."

As he speaks draws back upon his mighty bow, unleashing an arrow that sinks deep into Hargulka's thick hide.

Akiros
swift action= issue challenge
Sense Motive to see how Hargulka is truly feeling: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24
Hasted mounted bow attack: 1d20 + 7 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 7 + 2 + 1 = 24
Damage: 1d8 + 7 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 7 + 4 = 15

Kydal
Double move to A,B/13,14

Once again, for the third time, it is the Stag...no the Dragon Lord's sword that brings down one of Hargukla's lieutenants, his last one, in fact. As Nikolai uses his burning blade to ensure the regenerating troll is dead and gone for good, and then uses the same blade to sever both disgusting heads, Akiros watches him.

When Nikolai then brings those heads to the soldiers who had cornered Nagrundi and kept him penned, sharing, rightly so, the victory with all of them, Akiros watches him. Watches and thinks. He, Akiros, more than any other in Newhaven, knew the sole remaining scion of Rogarvia. Or, well, as much as it was possible for anyone to truly know the enigma that was Nikolai. For all the former Stag Lord's violence, brutality, mercilessness and fury, Akiros had yet still, despite all evidence to the contrary, always seen something more inside the man. As too had Jemini, clearly. Somehow, they had both known that, underneath all the anger and rage, all the pain and suffering the Stag Lord had caused, was an even greater amount of pain and suffering felt. Underneath all of that, was then Nikolai the man.

Over the past few years since Jemini and Nikolai's miraculous return from death's grasp, Akiros had continued to observe his old friend and companion, his former liege lord. Through this observation, Akiros had seen the continued growth of Nikolai the man. Akrios knew of course that Nikolai was desperately in love with Jemini yet never felt deserving of her love in return. This was something plain for anyone with eyes to see, even eyes as clouded as the battle cleric's were. Jemini was, without doubt, the key for Nikolai's amazing transformation, for now he had something, someone to focus on other than his own inner demons and turmoil. After all, Akiros too did at one time have more than his own share of inner demons, and he was no stranger to what miracles of change and inspiration Love could bring.

All of this growth, this inspiration, now had led to this, this scene before them. There he stood, the former Stag Lord, a man who had for years literally terrorized the lands and lives of many of the men before him. Now, Stag Lord now more, Nikolai, Dragon Lord, shared a stunning victory with these same men, gaining their trust, gaining their admiration, perhaps, even, gaining their love. This man now, this Nikolai Rogarvia? This was a man who could be King.

When Noleski Surtova, and the rest of the Brevoy nobles heard of this tale, as they surely would, they would quake in their boots. As well they should. For no more was this some troublesome, but relatively minor backwoods bandit lord they had before them. No, no indeed. This Nikolai Rogarvia was a King in the making, and, if there was one thing one could be sure of about a King, it was that, sooner or later, a King always came to claim their throne.

Round 2, Initiative 14
hp 65/65; AC 24/12T/23FF
20CMD; +7F/+3R/+7W (+2 vs Fear)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: none
Effects: Challenge vs Nagraundi,

Kydal
AC 23,14,19 +*Mobility (+4AC vs AoO's)*
hp 46/46
Fort +9, Ref +8, Will +4
CMD 23 (27 vs. trip)
Buffs: none
Effects:

As the other Founders rush to the attack and surround the beleaguered troll, Akiros and Kydal continue their attacks. Once again Nagrundi is too fast to avoid the battle oracle's blows, as well as Kydal's flying hooves. Yet the superbly trained warhorse manages to find purchase with his teeth on a soft spot on one of the troll's two necks. Pulling back with his own powerful neck muscles Kydal rips a significant chunk out of Nagrundi's neck, troll blood spraying both horse and rider.

Mounted flank attack: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 12 + 1 + 2 = 17

Kydal flank attack: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 6 + 2 = 28
Crit confirm: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 6 + 2 = 24
Bite Damage: 2d4 + 10 ⇒ (3, 1) + 10 = 14
Hoof 11d20 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 4 + 2 = 16
Hoof 21d20 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 4 + 2 = 9

Round 1, Initiative 14
hp 65/65; AC 24/12T/23FF
20CMD; +7F/+3R/+7W (+2 vs Fear)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: none
Effects: Challenge vs Nagraundi, Charge -2AC vs others

Kydal
AC 23,14,19 +*Mobility (+4AC vs AoO's)*
hp 46/46
Fort +9, Ref +8, Will +4
CMD 23 (27 vs. trip)
Buffs: none
Effects: Charge -2AC vs others

Kydal avert DC18: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19

Akrios literally sees nothing of the results of Elsir's spell, except perhaps a slight lightening in the haze which is the oracle's entire world beyond 30'. As well, fortunately his link with Kydal makes just enough difference to allow the warhorse to resist the effects of the elven mage's magics.

Knowing the time to attack is upon them, the instant Elsir's spell goes off Akiros and Kydal leap forward as one, racing towards their foe.

Having issued his challange to Nagraundi when calling upon his Goddess, Akiros's blade is able to bite deep into the prone troll, yet Kydal's teeth fail to penetrate the creature's thick skin.

Mounted Charge Attack: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 12 + 1 + 2 = 18
Challange Damage: 1d10 + 8 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 8 + 4 = 17

Kydal Charge Attack: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 6 + 2 = 14

Round 1, Initiative 14, Last Stand of the Advisor

hp 65/65; AC 24/12T/23FF
20CMD; +7F/+3R/+7W (+2 vs Fear)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: none
Effects: none

Kydal
AC 23,14,19 +*Mobility (+4AC vs AoO's)*
hp 46/46
Fort +9, Ref +8, Will +4
CMD 23 (27 vs. trip)
Buffs: none
Effects:

Mere moments after Nikolai looses his arrows Kydal leaps forward under command from his rider. Racing to within 30' of the giant troll Akiros burst out with a terrifying war cry, a call to his Goddess meant to shake the troll to it's bones. "IOMEADE!!!
At the same time, he lets fly his burning arrow, but the Nagraundi is too quick and ducks aside from the flaming shaft.

Circling around, Kydal races back to a safer distance.

Akiros: FRA
Kydal: Double Move, returning to 80' away now.

Demoralize, swift:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27

Attack MWComp Bow: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13

With Jemini adding her divinely inspired voice and the general Berrin sending it home with his simple yet powerful command to charge, the rout of the Battle of Hydra Bridge had begun.

In the van of the force driving towards the bridge, Valnyr and Kydal, their riders wielding their deadly blades atop them, sweep, crush, slash and stomp all before them. For the most part, in the thick of battle like this, Akiros' limited eyesight is hardly any handicap at all. When he does need to see further, he relies on his trusted mount and companion, their mystical link allowing them to move as one.

In truth, it is a thing of beauty, Akiros and Kydal, for the dance of death both horse and rider perform is indeed a sight to behold. Kydal is simply unmatched on the field of battle. No other steed even remotely comparing to his strength, speed and ferocity. The single exception being the mighty Kydal, coming in a very close second. Akiros seems born to the saddle, with barely a handful of riders in the entire army being equal to his skill. Together though, they are something else altogether. Even the centaurs, man and horse flesh literally melded as one, can hardly match the grace and deadliness that the battle cleric and his mount incarnate. Indeed, for a time, several centaurs ride alongside them, treating the pair as one of their own, tribal whoops and cries urging them on.

'This is what I am meant for, this is justice, this is the purpose, or at least a significant part of it, for my Goddess returning her gifts to me' thinks the battle cleric at some point. Yet, despite his deadliness on the field of battle, so too does Akiros show mercy to all who ask for it. For justice without mercy is an abomination in and of itself.

As the Fates often seem to decree such things to be, the tide of battle carries Akiros and Kydal to the scene around the two-headed troll at virtually the same time as Nikolai and Berrin. Noting the position and tactics of his two allies Akiros moves Kydal to take up another flanking position. Having lost his borrowed lance somewhere in the battle, Akiros instead draws his mighty composite longbow. While nowhere near to the strength of the bow Nikolai has nocked, still most would not be able to even pull the bow Akiros now nocks with ease. Leaning down to one of the torch bearing soldiers, Akiros ignites one of the special oil soaked arrows he had obtained before leaning back up to draw a bead on the giant troll. One last little detail to clean up. From this distance, he knew he could not, and would not, miss.

It was over. In an instant. Though grievously wounded in the process, Nikolai had taken on their champion and taken the fearsome creature down with two swift strokes of his burning blade.

Although impressed, Akiros was not overly surprised. After all, he has seen the Stag Lord's martial mastery many, many times.

Knowing this to be the perfect time to press the advantage, and seeing Nikolai advancing forward with the same intention in mind, Akiros is one of the first, and loudest, to start the roar. Although he had never once used the moniker for his old friend, and likely never would again, he understood it's impact and value in this situation, and thus used it now. Filling his powerful lungs with air, he roars, banging the flat of his sword on his shield "DRAGON LORD! DRAGON LORD!!"

Then, casing Kydal to advance with a simple squeeze of his thighs, he roars even louder "FOR NEWHAVEN!" adding all the force of personality he can muster to aid in the demoralization of their foes.

Intimidate aid another: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20

Having cast his magics upon his friend and ally, there is little Akiros can do now besides obverse the outcome of the battle along with everyone else.

Little, however, does not mean nothing. Having Kydal step up beside Valnyr, looking straight ahead the battle cleric speaks quietly to the general "Let us be prepared for treachery and deceit from our foes, Berrin. While our army is distracted would be a perfect time for an honourless, yet cunning enemy like Harkulka to try and take us unawares."

Assuming it's one of the major BBGs Akiros will also cast Enlarge on Nikolai when appropriate

The moment Berrin downs the final wyvern, Akiros quickly and efficiently trots back to his lance and, exhibiting his superior horsemanship on Kydal, leans down while still in the saddle and retrieves it. He then uses his rock hard core muscles to smoothly bring himself back up.

As the army erupts in cheers, the Marshall raises his lance in salute. yet even as he does so, he looks upon Berrin's antics, thinking 'Yes, [i]that is one of the main reasons he makes a superior General than I ever could. He joins then, he is one with them, and they know it. Yes, my Guardsmen are loyal, but never will I garner the adulation and hero worship that Berrin does in his men. Newhaven is fortunate to have him.'[/i]

There is no remorse or negativity in the Marshal's thoughts, far from it. He is, as is his wont, simply analyzing the situation as accurately as he is able. Observing, noting, all the better with which to perform his own duties.

A little later, when the call for a champion is made, Akiros draws his sword and presents his scabbard to the big man. Telling him the command word he adds "Perhaps this will help. Go do what you do best, my friend, we shall carry on the battle."

When the magical scabbard is returned to him, he resheathes his blade and rejoins the battle planning.

Akiros' Keen sheathe...

Dropping the lance still stuck in the now dead wyvern, Akiros wheels Kydal around and races to destroy the remaining dragon-kin. Drawing Justice as he rides, both battle cleric and war-horse attack powerfully, yet the wyvern's sinuous movements and hardened scales save it from grievous injury.

Round 1, Initiative 14
hp 56/56; AC 24/12T/23FF
20CMD; +7F/+3R/+7W (+2 vs Fear)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: none
Effects:

Kydal
AC 23,14,19 +*Mobility (+4AC vs AoO's)*
hp 46/46
Fort +9, Ref +8, Will +4
CMD 23 (27 vs. trip)
Buffs: none
Effects:

MA: Ride to C-D/6-7

Mounted Flank attack Wyvern #1: 1d20 + 12 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 12 + 2 + 1 = 18
Damage: 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

Kydal
Flank attack Wyvern #1: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 6 + 2 = 17
Damage: 1d4 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6

Smiling with grim pleasure as the plan goes off perfectly and the beasts crash into the ground, Akiros and Kydal are ready to attack the moment their opportunity arises. Moving as one, horse and rider burst into motion, tearing across the ground towards their target. Trusting in Kydal's better eyesight, Akiros allows his emotionally linked mount to choose their foe. Singling out the same wyvern as Berrin, Akiros and Kydal barrel into the other side of beast mere moments after the general and his mount do.

Round 1, Initiative 14
hp 56/56; AC 21/11T/20FF
20CMD; +6F/+2R/+5W (+2 vs Fear)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: none
Effects: -2AC from charge

Kydal
AC 23,14,19 +*Mobility (+4AC vs AoO's)*
hp 46/46
Fort +9, Ref +8, Will +4
CMD 23 (27 vs. trip)
Buffs: none
Effects: -2AC from charge

Lance Charge Wyvern #2: 1d20 + 10 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 10 + 2 = 25
Damage: 2d8 + 10 ⇒ (6, 2) + 10 = 18

Kydal
Charge Wyvern #2: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 6 + 2 = 9

Ride Akiros?: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23
Accrobatics +3, Dex +4 or Reflex +8 Kydal?: 1d20 ⇒ 11

Nodding in agreement as Elsir lays out his plan, Akiros, still mounted atop Kydal, is the first to ask a question "Are you suggesting that we be the guards, Elsir? The idea sound but..." and here the former Ronin looks down and pats the finely crafted bow strapped to Kydal's saddle "...unfortunately my Goddess seems to have other plans for my eyesight at present. I wouldn't even be able to see one of the creatures until it was almost upon us."

Studying the map and battle plans as the others speak, after a few minutes Akiros joins in "I agree that taking out Hargulka must be one of our main focuses." He then turns to Nikolai "With you flaming blade, you are the clear choice to do so, yet.." he then turns to the Banker "Verik, what was it you had said about Hargulka's resistance to fire? If we want to kill him, we'll have to counter that somehow."

The relief that Akiros had felt upon seeing his beloved wife, who also carried his child to be, had hit like an almost overwhelming tidal wave. For while he he truly did have faith that she had been safe, having it confirmed, and having her in his arms, had been like nothing else he had ever felt before.

The enraptured duo had spent many quiet moments, mostly in silence, in a sharing and connection beyond words. For once, Akiros' strict sense of duty had let him be, and given him this moment. Like all moments however, this one to did come to and end, as duty finally made it's voice, and need, known again.

While the others had conversed amongst themselves, Akiros had concentrated himself on doing his all to make sure that the city defences, and it's evacuation plan, were as tight as they could be. He also had assigned a small, but elite squad of guardsmen to protect and,should all be lost, see to the safe evacuation of his pregnant wife.

When it was finally time for the Founders to retire for the evening, Elspeth and Akiros and spent a quiet, yet deeply loving and tender night. The Marshal of Newhaven had not wanted to close his eyes, needing to drink in every second of his soulmate. Elspeth, however, was just was strong as her mate, in her own way, and knowing his need for rest, had insisted he sleep. Through a blend of loving touch and soothing song she had finally guided him into a deep and restful sleep.

The next morning, their farewell was quiet and intense one. No words were needed, they both knew, just as they both knew they would see one another again.

Taking the lead on Kydal at the head of the column, the former Ronin's thoughts turn to nothing but the battle ahead. Upon reaching the battleground, Akiros takes a moment to survey all before him. He shares a quick glance with Nikolai, as this was not the first battlefield the two had ridden upon together, yet it was by far the biggest.

Reaching the camp headquarters, Akiros is truly gladdened to see Berrin. True, the former soldier now turned general was his opposite in almost every way. Akiros knew he was considered by most to be a serious, no nonsense man of duty, honour and discipline, whereas Berrin was a rogue, a rascal and one to him discipline might have seemed a foreign concept. Yet despite their differences, Akiros felt a genuine friendship and camaraderie for the man, and he seemed to be filling his role as general perfectly.

Wishing to tell him so, Akiros steps up and claps the big warrior on the shoulder "They picked the right man for the job, Berrrin. I don't know any man that could have done a better job keeping our city, and our people, safe so far. For that, you have my undying gratitude." and with the extended and deep look, the Marshal gives the General little doubt as to what people in particular he was referring to.

Stepping back and taking in the plans Akiros cracks a rare, if still grim smile "Now, let's win ourselves a war!"

Understanding the importance of the ritual to Nikolai and the others, Akiros crosses his blade over Nikolai's and Borodin's. He waits a few more moments for others to join, but the impatience is clear on his face. Finally, he growls "Yes, yes, death to the Winter Queen, but first, death to those that threaten our home! Let us send our message and be on our way! We are already too late as it is!"

Sheathing his sword, he moves to leave the room. At the doorway, he turns saying "Berrin is an excellent general, he knows what to do. So give him as much information as we can for him to make the best decisions. Something like 'Troll army day away, southeast Candlemere. Founders return two days. Centaurs infighting, army flank unprotected. Trolls east flank. Wyverns have sky. Worgs not with them'. But whatever you send, do so quickly! We must away! I go now to prepare the rest of the mounts. I expect you all to be ready shortly!"

And with that, he is gone.

The decision, after much discussion, having been finally made, thar none of the founders would ride ahead, that they were safer riding as group, Akiros waits, barely more patient than Nikolai. The battle Oracle busies himself with a hundred and one small, and helpful, but mainly unnecessary tasks to pass the time. Finally, after whats seem much longer than an hour, he blasts "Damn these magic users and their arcane magics! Does he not know that we have loved ones to protect! If he hasn't found his answers yet, perhaps a swift kick to backside will give him the pathfinder the extra push he needs!"

Knowing Nikolai is as eager to be off as is he, Akiros storms back into the ruins, the big warrior at his side. Quickly they make their way up the stairwell to the previous chambers of Ghorraneaux. It seems the others, intent as they are upon Elsir's scrying and message, do not hear their approach. Just reaching the shadowed doorway as the mage relates the contents of his scrying, Akrios halts as if striking a wall. The word that Hargulka's army rests but a day outside the city walls fill Newhaven's Marshal with dread. Thoughts of, and fear for his beloved Elsbeth, along with all of Sanctuary's citizens, turn his blood ice cold. At the same time the urge to leap onto Kydal and ride, now, without stopping until they reached Sanctuary's gates almost makes Akiros turn around and run back down the stairs.

A moment later, beside him, he feels Nikolai stiffen as well. For the former Stag Lord though, it seemed to be the mention of one "Queen Nyrissa" that brought such reaction.

Akiros grits his teeth, about to move forward to question the mage on all he saw, yet it is Nikolai who breaks his momentary paralysis first and steps forward out of the shadows into the scrying room...

The hints of a smile cracking his normally iron faced composure and dancing in his eyes, the former ronin replies "Aye, that we will my friend. Although we may be better off having you learn to ride on of your worgs."

He then whistles for Kydal and begins preparing the magnificent war horse for the fast journey ahead. Sensing his rider's mood, Kydal begins to dance, eager for the race.

Akiros exits the temple and marches straight up to the big warrior. He quickly explains the time line of the spells as Elsir had indicated. Then, taking the time to look his former liege lord in the eyes, he lays it out straight. "I have no doubt that Kydal can keep up with the fastest horses here, and then some. Borodin and Zander are excellent riders as well. However my large friend, we both know that your horsemanship is mediocre at best. Then there's your size. Those of us who will be riding ahead will be riding hard, riding light, and riding fast. So, while there is no other sword arm I'd rather have at my side or at my back, we both know that there's no way you'd be able to keep up on a long, fast ride. At least not without killing your mount and perhaps yourself as well. Therefore I suggest we ride in at least three groups. Zander, Borodin, myself and Zander's two fastest riders will be the lead group. You, and the other middling riders, Jemini, Verik and Elsir, can follow behind as quickly as you're able. Then Zander's wardens can bring back the Galtan survivors as at best a pace as they can manage."

He waits a beat, continuing to gaze directly into the taller man's eyes, before finishing "How sit you with that idea my friend."

As it seems the decision is made to scry on Hargulka over the minotaur, Akiros nods in agreement. He then addresses the party's nominal leader "I am with Verik on this one Jemini. I will aid you in speaking with Nikolai if you wish, yet regardless the outcome of that conversation, the only place I heading right now is Sanctuary, as quickly as possible."

Next he turns to Elsir "I believe an hour is an acceptable time to wait to learn what we will from your magics. I expect to hear of your findings as soon as you have them, and I ask that you call me in before your sending to Berrin. In the meantime I shall shall aid Zander in reading the riders and arranging as safe passage as we can manage for the Galtans."

Finally, he turns to Aleza, his brusque manner softening noticeably "Ma'am, your bravery is commendable, and it, and your sacrifice in aid of Sanctuary shall not be forgotten. You have my deepest thanks and my word that I shall do all in my power to ensure that you and your people have all you need to rebuild your lives and make Sanctuary your home." and with that, he gathers the Warden and heads outside.

Akiros shakes his head as he watches Nikolai leave, but says nothing to stop the former stag Lord from storming off. He also notes Elsir's evaluation of the big warrior. Nikolai had always been more intelligent, and cagey, than most people ever assumed him to be. Many of those people often paid the ultimate price for their misjudgement. However, the man was also incredibly impulsive and hot headed, no two ways about it. To Akiros' mind, it was the thing that would most likely get his old comrade killed someday.

Turning his mind to the most urgent matters however, Akiros first replies to Zander "Chasavich you say? Good. Send word for him to prepare to leave immediately. Have him take two horses though, and tell him we need him there in a day, or as fast as he possibly can. A dead horse is a small price to pay to save a city. Send your second fastest rider as well."

He then turns to the mage "Elsir, how long will these magics of yours take? If they'll be quick, we'll have the riders wait to see what you discover. If this will be a long process, we'll have them leave right now."

He then quickly looks to each of the founders as he finishes "Both Nikolai and Verik make good points, and, as we only have one chance, we need to make sure it is the right one." He pauses for a moment, thinking, before continuing "We have only the words of the hag as to where the minotaur may be, and she was a creature who lied with every breath. So, while the beast may indeed be on the way to Sanctuary, it could also be anywhere. We can be virtually certain though that Hargulka will be with the army. So between the two of them, I say we scry on him. It also occurs to me though that, if we wish to know for sure if Sanctuary is under attack, we can scry on Berrin. Either way, our sending will be a warning of the possibility of imminent attack, but knowing what is happening in Sanctuary right now will let us know how much haste we ourselves need to make."

Having seen to the most dire needs of the worst off of the former prisoners, Akiros comes to gather with the other founders. Anger is clear in his clenched jaw and blazing eyes, yet how much of it is directed at Verik and Nikolai, and much towards the state of the people, and what had been done to them, is unclear. "Enough you two! This is neither the time nor place for your bickering!"

Then, turning to the Warden "Zander, how quickly could two of your fastest riders make it to Sanctuary? Or perhaps four of them, riding in relays?"

Then, noticing the missing members of their group, he raises his voice and bellows "Elsir! Borodin! Found you anything that could be of aid to us in determining the truth or lies of the hag?"

Round 4, Initiative 8
HP 2/65; AC 24/12T/23FF *[AC23 vs anyone but Ghorraneaux, AC25vs her ]
21CMD; +7F/+3R/+7W (+2+1 vs Fear) (+1 Ref not incl)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: Bless, Keen Edge on Bastard sword, Haste (+1Atk, AC & Ref)
Effects:
Hero Points: 3/6

"Argh! Damn your blasted soul!" Akiros roars out in pain as the hag's razor sharp claws find purchase in his flesh through the ruined dragonscale pauldron on his left shoulder. As well, despite his own phenomenal might, the monstrous strength of the hag is yet greater, and this mockery of a woman also manages, just, to grapple him as well.

Before the creature can take advantage her grasp on him however, the flashing blades of Jemini take the monster out, causing the hag to drop to a lifeless heap on the floor, leaving Akiros nearly dead, but free.

At the same time, Nikolai, once again able to see, and in full rage, takes out his foe in one blistering attack. An attack which results in a surprise, as the real Ghorraneaux is finally revealed.

Although he had already killed one hag this day, Akiros had sworn an oath to kill Ghorraneaux himself, and, as the Gods would have it, the opportunity still lay before him. Bleeding from several places, his armor and flesh rent and torn, the weary battle cleric drops his shield and makes his way over to the downed former mistress of the elven ruins.

His sword, dragging on the ground, sends a shower of sparks up into the air as he weaves his way through the unconscious prisoners. When he finally reaches her, Akiros stands a moment, staring down upon his enemy. He knew now that it had been she, Ghorraneaux, who had been behind Malgorzata and the rise of the cult of Gyronna in Sanctuary. This bleeding, dying, thing before him, had been responsible for the death of his friend, and so many others.

His hatred and righteous fury not diminished one iota, the Marshall of Sanctuary, the city's Protector, finally speaks "What now of all your boasting, hag, what now of all your pride? You continue your games, attempt to toy with us with empty threats of your former ally, Hargulka. He who has abandoned you? Do you see? Do you see now how that comes as no surprise? For that is as Evil does. That is why we are strong. That is why we shall never be defeated by the likes of you. It is because we care, because we love, that we shall always be victorious. As you make your way to hell, know well that this is something you shall never, ever, know, or truly understand."

Summoning the last of his strength, using both hands, the vessel of Iomeade raises his heavy blade high above his head "I swore that you would die by my blade this day, you wretched thing, and now you shall. I do this for all those innocents you have harmed, and maimed, and killed. I do this for Corwin, my friend. I do this in the name of Justice. You are no more. Die."

In the for-the-moment silent chamber, the sound of Akiros' blade slashing through Ghorraneaux's neck and clanging into the floor, the sound of Justice, rings louder, and echos longer, than possible. It seems as if an unearthly sigh echoes through the room. As if the final moments of the evil monstrosity that was Ghorraneaux had been witnessed by a ghostly audience of all of her many, many victims, and that with her death, the spirits of the slain sigh their pleasure, and their release.

As the head of the former coven leader rolls away from the rest her torso, Akiros raises his blade towards his face, his milky eyes gazing upon it as if for the first time. "...'Justice'...yes, yes, that is it. Justice was demanded, and justice you have served. You are well named. So be it."

Sparing not a second's more thought for his defected foe, Akiros cleans and sheaths his sword. For despite his massive wounds, his next thought is only for the gravely injured hostages, and so he moves to help them. It is not even a question for him, it is simply his duty. For, beyond all else, a man of duty he is, and thus shall he ever be.

Reflex Save DC19: 1d20 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 3 + 1 = 17

Round 3, Initiative 8
HP 15/65; AC 24/12T/23FF *[AC23 vs anyone but Ghorraneaux, AC25vs her ]
21CMD; +7F/+3R/+7W (+2+1 vs Fear) (+1 Ref not incl)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: Bless, Keen Edge on Bastard sword, Haste (+1Atk, AC & Ref)
Effects:
Hero Points: 3/6

FA: 5' Step to N10
FRA: Attack Red Hag

Jemini's ploy is an incredible success, allowing Akiros to be free and take down, with two masterful strokes of his blade, the hag who had almost killed him. His attention focused on the hag he had just killed though, he is a heartbeat too late to avoid the frigid blast from Ghorraneaux as she finally reveals herself.

Despite his renewed fury at seeing his prime enemy and target, Akiros knows he must once again focus on the foe before him. Ignoring the clenching and pain of his frozen muscles, the battle oracle steps forward, hoping to flank with his ally. Calling upon all his skill and training he then unleashes two powerful, rapid swings of his bloodied bastard sword upon the hag threatening both Jemini and himself, doing his best to take her down.

Power attack vs AC 21: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (7) + 12 + 1 + 1 - 2 = 19
Damage: 1d10 + 8 + 4 ⇒ (9) + 8 + 4 = 21

Hasted Power attack vs AC 21: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (16) + 12 + 1 + 1 - 2 = 28
Damage: 1d10 + 8 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 8 + 4 = 20

That's the plan!

Actually, maybe to speed things out and help out DM B in case the hag does drop him and go for Jemini, here's an AoO roll for Akiros right now...

AoO vs AC: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (20) + 12 = 32 ]Holy Moly!
Damage: 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10
Crit Threat vs AC19: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (17) + 12 = 29
Crit Damage: 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

Um, I guess that'd work....

About to give all his strength, everything he has into breaking free of the hag's crushing grasp, Akiros suddenly hears Jemini's skilled and biting taunts. Feeling the wretched creature tense and shake with fury, the battle oracle hesitates a moment, waiting to see if his allies ploy will work or not. He's betting his life that it will.

Delaying action until after the hag acts.

Round 2, Initiative 12
hp 32/65; AC 24/12T/23FF *[AC21 vs anyone but The Real? Ghorraneaux ]
21CMD; +7F/+3R/+7W (+2+1 vs Fear) (+1 Ref not incl)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: Bless, Keen Edge on Bastard sword, Haste (+1Atk, AC & Ref)
Effects: Grappled (-4Dex, -2AC, -2 Atk)
Hero Points: 3/6

The stoic ex-Ronin cannot help the roar of pain that explodes out of him as the hag bites, tears and rends at his flesh. Yet mixed in equal portions with the pain in his yell is righteous fury as well towards the abomination that she is.

Mere moments after the hag grabs him close Akiros feels the magics of his allies coursing through his being. His flesh knitting itself and all around him seeming to slow as the stolen motes of time speed up his movement and actions.

His sword arm still free, Akiros roars once more, this time a more forcused plea to his Goddess. His prayer clearly answered, the Battle Oracle swings his blade against the side of the hag, like felling a tree. Once, twice, and then again. His sword arm and blade, blessed by Iomeade Herself, move faster than seemingly possible. The first hit is deflected by the hag's iron like skin, yet two times does his sword bite into the hags blackened, disgusting flesh. It is, almost, enough.

For while his sword nearly cleaves straight through her, the hag still yet clings to life, and Akiros, as well.

Attack vs AC21: 1d20 + 12 + 1 - 2 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 12 + 1 - 2 + 1 = 18
Damage: 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Hero Point to reroll.
Attack vs AC21: 1d20 + 12 + 1 - 2 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 12 + 1 - 2 + 1 = 21
Damage: 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14

Hasted Attack vs AC21: 1d20 + 12 + 1 - 2 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 12 + 1 - 2 + 1 = 23
Damage: 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16

Round 1, Initiative 12
hp 65/65; AC 24/12T/23FF *[AC22 vs anyone but The Real? Ghorraneaux ]
21CMD; +7F/+3R/+7W (+2+1 vs Fear)
Special: *Cannot see beyond 30'*, Darkvision
Buffs: Bless, Keen Edge on Bastard sword
Effects: none

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (12) + 10 = 22

MA: Move to N11
FA: Draw sword
SA: Attack hag

As always, with virtually any battle, everything happens almost at once as chaos and violence erupt. Although he feel the warmth that spreads through him, bolstering his focus and clarity, Akiros pays almost no heed whatsoever to the illusion of Elsir. His focus is almost entirely on his enemies. Thus, for him, not being sure at the moment who his truest foe is, Akiros concentrates on the one closest to him.

Stepping forward, Akiros whips his sword out of its scabbard almost faster than the eye can follow. In grim silence the former Ronin then brings his magically keen blade sweeping down in a powerful stroke on the neck and shoulder of the disguised hag, nearly hacking off her arm in the process. As he does, he head turns slightly upwards, to catch what he can of the reaction of the Ghorraneaux up above, as well.

Power attack vs AC21: 1d20 + 12 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 12 + 1 - 2 = 29
Damage: 1d10 + 8 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 8 + 4 = 16
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 12 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (16) + 12 + 1 - 2 = 27
Crit Damage: 1d10 + 8 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 8 + 4 = 20
Total Damage: 36-5=31

So, question, if it should turn out that the disguised hag is the real Ghorraneaux, would that automatically transfer Akiros' Challenge to her? Since it was the real Ghorraneaux that he is so intent on destroying?

Ok, I can see all that (; ), so, if that works for you, it works for me and I'll leave things as they've been. Cool, thanks!

So, is that two Sense Motive rolls then, one for The hag and one for Jemini? What's the Will save for? Not sure if on is needed or not, but just in case.

Sense Motive Hag: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (11) + 10 = 21
Sense Motive Jem: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25
Will Save: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23

Akiros, with a corner of his attention, grasped the tactics of Verik, but was not, at first, able to tear enough of his focus and attention away from his hated enemy to pay proper attention to the Abadraian priest. When Jemini and Borodin join in the dance charade however, more of is attention is drawn to the centre of the room. It is at that moment that he catches the worried and queried glance from Ghorraneaux to one of the dancers.

"Does my true enemy hide herself over there, amongst the dancers. Quite possibly, as that is exactly the kind of sneaky, cowardly, underhanded tactic I would expect from her."

It being one of the hardest things he has ever done, with an angry glare up on the figure on the balcony, Akiros james his sword back into it's scabbard and begins to dance, slowly moving towards the back of the room, where he suspected his true for may lie. The entire time, his gaze barely leaves the Ghorraneaux on the balcony above. Pure hatred still flows out of his eyes. "It seems my allies are more prone to your trickey and coercion that I would have imagined possible. So, fine, for now we dance. Think not that you have gained some victory here, witch. |For your death is still assured. If I do only one thing before I die, it will be to end your wretched life."

Awww! I somehow edited out this line from Akiros' challenge : (. Not that it makes any difference, other than for fluff really, but Akiros also said this

"...The only dance you'll see this day hag is the dance of my blade as it lops off your ugly head!"

So, as well, he has Challenged the hag, as per cavelier/ronin rules.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28
Intimidate: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

He has assumed it was her, he had hoped it was her, but until this moment, he had not known for certain. Trusting to Verik and Elsir and perhaps Jemeni to help the dancers, Akiros attention is fully riveted on their foe.

The oracle closes his eyes and whispers a quick prayer of protection to Iomeade, imploring that She allow him to be a vessel of Her divine will and justice. Opening his eyes, their milky white gaze forged of steel and promising death, he points his newly magiked bastard sword at the hag and roars "YOU! You speak as if you have options, yet I tell you now, your only option is death, for I have already sworn yours. Though the Gods know you do not deserve it, allow these people to go and I promise you a swift one. Know this though, no matter what, this is the day you die."

Casts Protection from Evil. Don't know if Akiros can get all this in or not, but if anything is allowed, the spell takes precedence over the intimidate. PS Great map!

Ha! Right ; )

His brow scrunched in thought as he ponders what new dangers or discoveries this strange occurrence might bring, Akiros turns and whispers to his companions "Some remnant of the once living, perhaps? Jemeni, are you able to sense any evil beyond this door?"

Verik, those items managed to remain hidden for thousands of years, so I think they'd be fine to leave in the room for a little bit longer. Plus, would save us all from looking like pack mules hardly able to walk. Yes?

Great descriptive post though! :)

Now as for this new puzzle....hmmmm....Ghosts?

By the way, just curious, is Nikolai putting on his new armor now?

He woulda had time for it, ya?

Finished mending his weapon, and eager to see to the death of the hag, Akiros pops his head back in the room and growls "Alright you clacking hens, enough is enough! You can debate what to do with this pile of stones until you're blue in the face for all I care, but lest you forget, we're still in this den of evil, and we have a mission to rescue some imprisoned souls and destroy the one responsible for it! So let's GO!"

And, nodding to Nikolai and Borodin to accompany him, he starts moving forward towards the next exit.

As the party sorts through the incredible treasure trove, and determines which items will go to whom, Akiros reorders his equipment and tries out his new belongings.

As he places the exquisitely crafted helm upon his head, he feels a ripple of divine energy course through him and he knows he has just been blessed by the Gods of luck and protection. Grateful for the blessing, he knows it will serve him well in the moments ahead.

Replacing his trusted bow, he tries out the new, Elvish one, greatly admiring its craftsmanship and significantly harder pull. He envisions sending an arrow through the eye of the Hag, and a grim smile pulls of the corners of his mouth.

Finally, he straps on the elaborate and clearly enchanted scabbard. Sliding in his broadsword, he speaks the command word as it was explained to him, and redraws his blade. From the metalling shiinnng! to the way the light glints of the weapons edge, the Aldori Sword Lord can tell that his magical sword is even sharper now than it had been before.

Kneeling down on one knee, heedless of who's watching him or what they may think, he holds the weapon before him, hilt to forehead and blade tip sinking slightly into the ground and speaks a quick prayer of thanks to Iomeade. He as well reaffirms his oath to destroy the hag and any other evil which infests this place.

Finished, he stands and waits for the others, eager to continue on with their mission. While they ready themselves, Akiros moves out into the corridor and uses the time to cast a simple orison to mend his damaged mace.

That all sounds great to me! Thanks y'all.

If it's ok, I'd also like to have Akiros take some of the arrows, say four? But if not, no worries at all.

So there's also now a MW composite longbow (no Str bonus) to add to the loot pile.

Nope. Just the headband slot.

(I was assuming that a full suit of plate mail comes with a standard helm, even if it isn't specifically listed)

Hey all, I'm back!

So, Hmmm, so if I'm reading this correctly, Akiros' share of the loot is to lose his current helm to Nikolai? Sweet!

: P

Joking aside, the things he would be interested in would be the scabbard, one of the bows (he already has a mw comp bow, but the +2 Str is a nice addition) and a few of the arrows. Oh, and he wouldn't pass up the helm if it landed his way.

But whatever works best for the group is cool with me.

Akiros nods absently at Verik's offer to repair is weapon. Weapons were merely tools, and, yes, some tools performed their function better than other, yet he was not emotionally attached to any of them. If a tool broke, you either fixed it or got a new one. Simple.

A little later, Verik's healing energy washes over him before he has a chance to stop him. Flexing his shoulder, he says "Not to appear ungrateful, priest, but next time save your healing for when more of us need it . we've just begun this fight, and I feel sure there is much more to come."

Hey all, I'm leaving tomorrow to travel for a month in Costa Rica!

I should have some net access here and there but I have no idea at present where or when that will be, so please feel free to DMPC Akiros when necessary.

All the best and game on!

Looking up from his mace, as he puts it away, Akiros brushes some of the marble dust off of himself and moves to retrieve his sword.

Looking towards the others, despite his injuries he says calmly, "Let us search the rest of this room and move on."

Thanks dude!