Alistar Derrinson's page

Another gloomy fog filled morning. Oh how I long to feel the warming rays of Illandors upon my flesh this morning.

Alistar looks about to the faces of his companions, trying to judge how the fair after the days events.

A prayer... yes Rast is right, a prayer would do well to disburse this morning's gloom. Illandors, my Lord, grant my your wisdom so I may lift our spirits up into your light.

"The Light of Illandros is a Strong Tower. A beacon of hope and justice. Those who walk in its Light are Righteous and Safe. The Light is our refuge. Our strength. An ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.

Though this morning's chill desires nothing more than to dampen our spirits, let us not be dismayed. Let not our hearts be troubled nor our resolve cower for we tread in the Light of our god. All who cast their faith upon the Light shall be saved and He shall never let his Righteous falter.

"Rast, Darry those creatures, are there any markings that speak to who they were in life?"

"Don't worry Alex, I've got him." Alistar kneels beside the fallen Gregor, planting his illuminated sword into the earth so to provide a beacon of light, and pulls a scroll out of the case in his bag.

Illandros, our Savior, lend me once more your strecgth and let this honorable man bask again in your Light.

Cast Cure Light from Scroll
Cure Light: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 1 = 8

"Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress. He sent forth his Light and healed them; He rescued them from the grave."

Cast Cure Light (in place of memorized Protect from Evil) on Reynard.
Cure Light: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7

"Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men."

By the Light I Cleanse You Filth of Darkness

With a cry Alistar steps forward, heaving his illuminated blade for one final swing.

Attack: 1d20 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 3 + 1 = 17
Damage: 1d8 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 3 + 1 = 5

This assumes the Zombie doesn't attack and kill me first.

Only Reynard came to my aid... the vengeful wrath of Illandros shall not forget this...

;)

Reynard, NO! Light Damn you spawns of darkness.

Alistar attempts to back up out of the undead creature's threat zone and then reaches out to the fallen Reynard.

Illandros, Lord of Light and Salvation, honor this boy's sacrifice with your healing Light!

Spontaneously casting Cure Light in replace of memorized Bless, while maintaining the inspire courage.

Cure Light: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7

If I cannot back up 5 feet then I will Cast Defensively

Cast on the Defensive DC17: 1d20 + 1 + 3 ⇒ (7) + 1 + 3 = 11

I'll defer my action once again until after the monsters have gone. If I'm hit (and don't drop) I'll step back and cast cure Light. Otherwise I'll attack.

Longsword Attack: 1d20 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 3 + 1 = 7
Damage: 1d8 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 1 = 9

While continuing his words of inspiration, Alistar heaves his blade in a mighty swing.

For the Light! For the Living!

and misses pathetically...

The Zombies & Evan, although he acts after they do.

Sorry Darry my strength lies with the living.

Illandors, my lord, now more than ever I need your strength. With thou Light, I want for nothing. Your grace vitalizes my soul. Guide me now, let my voice be one with your will...

...Yea though we walk through the forest of Shadow and Darkness, We Will Fear No Evil. For Thou art with Us. Thy Light, and Thy Strength, they comfort us. Thou preparest a table before us in the presence of our enemies. Thou anointest our blades with righteousness. Let our actions and your will become one! Surely goodness and mercy shall follow all the days of our Life and we will dwell in the glory of your Light For Ever!

The Walking Dead! Evan, check your magics. This foul evil will be immune to spells that target the mind and constitution of the living.

As I go after the zombies my action will be dependent upon theirs. I will either attack, or heal, while maintaining the inspire courage.

GM: Was my knowledge roll enough to ID basic zombie immunities?

By the Light! Yelps a shocked Alistar as the undead emerge from the gloom.

As the undead bear down upon us, Alistar will initiate some Inspirational Courage.

To identify the creatures: Knowledge Religion: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

Damn this infernal darkness... huh what madness has befallen Darry? He appears taken by fits... oh wait he is signalling for us to cease. Might we have actually caught up with our quarry?

Other than Alistar, who is carrying a light source?

I concur with Reynard. Darry if you are willing and able, please scout up ahead while we rest and discourse a moment. The darkness hides many evils and it would be good to know what's about.

Evan, you make a good point. We are too far along to risk heading back to the captured bandits. However I ask you this. Why would the lone bandit push on into the woods, alone with naught but his captive, if he planned on camping when it got dark? Is it not more likely that his objective was close at hand and therefore he decided to push on through the night until he reached his destination?

While I want nothing more than to rescue young Halasken, I fear that come morning we may find ourselves on the doorstep on a larger bandit camp, exhausted from the night's travel, and ill equipped to mount any form of a rescue. My fear stems not from the risk of death at their hands, but that our failure crushes any hope of the young woman's salvation.

GM, im assuming that we are moving at half speed as we follow the tracks. Could you clarify?

A 3 hour advantage is difficult to overcome on foot. More-so when you consider how slow we're moving as we try to follow these tracks. I was a fool for letting Rast's rashness get the better of the group. Point learned my lord, but please, I pray, don't let let my folly cause that poor girl to come to harm.

As the group pauses a moment, Alistar stares off into the blazing light as he offers a prayer to Illandors. Returning his attention to the others.

Friends, No one can doubt that our desire is pure, but we are ill equipped to make up a 3 hour advantage. And our efforts are further hindered by the speed at which we can realistically follow this trail. Gregor, I assure you we will not give up on your little girl, but we must reconvene with a new plan. If we can learn where our quarry is headed, then perhaps we can formulate a speedier course of action.

Alistar consciously keeps the tone of his voice is devoid of any blame.

Diplomacy to attempt to keep Gregor from falling into despair. Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

The mind is willing, but my body is not accustomed to wearing this armor. As the darkness grows deeper, I feel my strength slipping into fatigue. Illandors, my Savior, help me find the reserves to push ever onward.

Alistar's breathing becomes heavy as he stops to take yet another long swig of his nearly empty waterskin. After a couple deep breathes he renews the illumination on his weapon and bearing it high he attempts to push on.

Bluff check to try and hide the onset of fatigue. Bluff: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 2 = 19

Illandros my Lord, in our time of need I call upon your strength. Push back the Darkness that decends around us a d illuminate the path we must take.

Cast light on my sword. Light illumination distance is doubled

Hey guys, I'll be away on some much required R&R the next 5 days. I'll try to check the forum from time to time.

GM, can we get a reset of the scene? From the earlier posts I was under the impression that the sun has set (or is setting) and that it is already dark.

Alistar grows dismayed as Rast orders the group onward into the darkness, ignoring Alistar's request... Light send Rast some clarity, his love of drink has clouded his wisdom

"While I too desire haste in hopes of sparing young Halasken's plight, rushing off into the darkness unknown is childish folly. We are the woman's best hope of salvation, and we should treat that responsibility with the proper respect.

By the Light let us not act without prudence, for heedlessness is a trait of the Darkness."

"Gregor, you said the 2 who took your daughter wanted to press on, correct?"

"It would appear they were headed somewhere. With the darkness upon us it will be difficult to follow their tracks. Perhaps we should seek information on the destination from those we have captured?"

Before they are or are not hanged, Alistar wants to give them a chance to repent.

Unfortunately, I missed the fact that they are unconscious, which makes conversation difficult...

Illandros is NG, so I assume he is OK with putting the non-repentant to death as punishment for giving in to the darkness.

And so we come that most difficult of tasks…

“Blessed is the man who walketh not in the counsel of the darkness, nor standeth in the way of sinners nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. Blessed is He who delights in the Law of the Lord, for the Lord knoweth the way of the Righteous.”

Addressing the bandits who have been tied up in the tree

“You men have been found taken by the darkness. Do you now, before witness, repent your sins? Cast out that which has darkened your soul and welcome the Light of your Salvation?”

"No thanks is necessary master Halasken. The Lord protects all who strive to walk in the Light. It is to Him that you... that we all... should give praise."

Alistar pauses a moment to serve the scene. "Rast was there not 2 drag marks that led from the clearing? Gregor, fear not for Ellira. We will do what we can to see her returned to your arms. You say there were 2 other bandits. Did they set off after her? Anything you can tell us of your plight may help in her recovery."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26

If Rast's AoO doesn't drop the fleeing bandit

As the last bandit attempts to flee, Alistar moves into the clearing. "By the Power of Light and the Force of Justice I Command Thee to Halt"

Spontaneously casting Command, Will DC 15 to Command the bandit to Halt. Range is only 25' so Alistar needs to move first to close the gap.

If Rast succeeds in dropping the bandit then this action is not necessary.

Men and Woman of the Ford ;)

"Men of the Ford, be Strong & Courageous. Find comfort in the Righteousness of your actions. Forsake your fear, for the Light of the Lord is with you. Trust in His strength and be rewarded as he upholds your righteous hand."

At Initiative count 16, in Round 1, Alistar initiates his bardic performance to inspire courage. He then moves 10-15 feet closer, trying to get a better view of the clearing, while staying within the cover of the dense forest.

Party Buffs: +2 Attack (+1 Morale, +1 Competence); +1 weapon damage; +1 saves vs Fear & Charm.

Just as an FYI, I believe "Readying" any action is itself a standard action regardless of the action being readied.

I only note this as it game up at my table a few months back and many of us were surprised as we had never picked up on that.

Hey guys, my intent last night was to use my full round action to cast Bless from one of my scrolls, (hence why i didn't move) but the phrase "from my scroll case" got left off my post. GM Wanderer are you ok if I strike a scroll rather than a prepared spell slot for this casting? Thanks

"Your reign of darkness has endled for the righteousness of the Light is upon you. Throw down your arms and repent your sins.

After calling for their surrender Alistar casts Bless

Hi Wanderer, I wasn't sure if you have plans to publish a full pantheon of your realm's gods.

As I needed an opposition force for Illandors, I went with Achlys. In ancient Greek mythology she is the Eternal Night, a personification of misery and sadness. Here, I'm presenting her as the chief agent of the darkness the corrupts one's soul to evil.

But please let me know if you have something else in mind.

"Then it is agreed, we attack at once."

Alistar looks at each companion, before drawing his sword and kneeling before the fading sunlight. "Come my friends, let us pray."

By the Light of the Lord, amen."

"I must agree with Evan, without knowing where the other three have gone, its best we don't split our strength.

Darry, how far is the campfire from here?

In a hushed tone:

"Four is not seven. If we wait, we risk that the missing three return. Not all of us possess the subtly of the halfling, surely the sound of us fumbling forward in the dark will alert their sentry. Unless any of us have the magic to obscure our advance, or take out any guard, then any approach will lead to a fight."

Looking about the dense forest "Perhaps if we could lead them out here we could spring a trap of our own?"

"Either way, I agree that we should try to take them alive, and give them the opportunity to atone their sins. However, know that our mission has been blessed by the Light of Justice, and judgement of their crimes has fallen to us. If death is their penance, let us deliver it with a swift hand."

At some point along the way Alistar calls forth a divine Light to illuminate their path, but I assume someone convinces him that sneaking up on the bad guys with a massive torch is counterproductive.

What's that noise? Oh yes, the mule. Best go get her. hmmm...

"Reynard, friend would you care to grab Kitzi the mule, and watch over her? Its an important task, but I am confident you have the strength of will do see it done right."

There we are. Light willing, the task will help settle the boy's nerves, and boost his confidence.

Watching Darry disappear into the underbrush, Alistar can't help but think:

Seven... Surely such an omen should not be overlooked.

I can't shake this feeling that a darkness is looming just outside my vision. Something more vile than mere banditry. Illandros, Light of my Savior, I pray to thee. Send us your radiance, and protect those whose fate we hunt.

With his silent prayer, Alistar follows after the others.

Could we get some clarification on the trail? Is it well worn, or are we actively tracking based on footprints/blood/dragmarks. Also, how thick is the forest through which we are traveling? Thanks

Hearing the nervousness in Reynard's voice, Alistar looks back and addresses him:

"Reynard, keep you eyes up and in the Light. Blessed is the man who trusts in the Light of the Lord, for the Light shall be your confidence and shall keep your foot from the snare of darkness."

Proverbs 3:26 ;)

”Quite the contrary, Rast. The Radiant Dawn shines generously for All, without reproach. You must but ask, and accept.”

As usual, Alistar is troubled by the refutation of Rast’s words. If only Corvin had lived…but no, such was not His will that day. But we must not dwell on the difficulties of the trials He puts before us, for therein is only darkness. As Jonah proclaimed to the twelve tribes of Dispersion…

“Count it all Joy, my Brothers” Alistar suddenly murmurs, in his usual preaching tone “When you encounter trials of various kinds, for you Know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.”

Speaking the verse aloud brings smile to Alistar's face. And he is overcome with a renewed sense of hope, a hope which had darkened since learning of this foul trap. Returning his attention to the matter at hand: "Come, let us follow this trail, while the flame of hope is still kindled."

After giving the contraption some thought, Alistar comments: ”If these be bandits I can’t image live prisoners would be of much worth. Ransom perhaps, but to whom? Yet if they be Orc…

By the Light I pray they are bandits."

Walking over to see the trail that Rast has identified, Alistar rests a hand upon Rast’s shoulder: ”I fight for the salvation of our people everyday Rast. But if it’s my blade you are concerned with, fear not. When the time comes, the Light of our Savior will steer my hands and bear my blade true. Accept His Light, Rast, and you too shall feel his blessing.”

After pausing to inspect the tracks. ”Can anyone identify a human foot from that of an orc?”

I have my cleric spells prepared listed in the Offense section of my profile, but I am new to play by post so it would be good to hear what is the norm or GM preference.

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (19) + 3 = 22 To see what Darry is pointing too?

Alistar quickly ties the mules reigns to a nearby tree. Giving a silent prayer to Illandros he draws his Crusaders blade and with a nod to Evan and Reynard he follows behind the others.

“As assuredly as Illandros rises in the east, so too will all mortals die, Reynard. It is one of the few certainties of our existence. The question is simply in what fashion will we pass? And what we will do with the time we are given? Keep His radiance in your heart Reynard, and in the end He will welcome you with His Glory.”

“Our Savior is the Light of Resurrection and Life. All who walk in his radiance will live, even though they die.”

------

Hmm, what’s this I see… ah it’s just another stick. Alsitar thinks to himself as Darry suddenly throws up his hand in caution. Alistar, pulls off his backpack and quickly straps it to Kitzi, while tightening his grip on the reigns.

In a hushed tone he calls to the others: “Keep a careful watch. If they are bandits, and they know the wagon escaped, then surely they will be expecting someone from the Ford to investigate. It would be a great injustice should we fall to an ambush before our adventure truly begins.”

Pleased that his words are resonating with the crowd, Alistar swings by the Lighthouse to collect the rest of his gear before joining the others at the ferry.

Once landed on the eastern shore:
Noticing Rast’s general unease, Alistar takes Kitzi’s reigns and guides the mule to the shore. “Rast my friend, let us put aside our fears. While we do not know what dangers lie before us, our mission is Just, and our Savior sends his support. Even now, as I speak, the fog dissipates before the warmth of the sun.”

Looking towards the others, “Rest assured that should we fall, his Luminance will guide our souls down the river and see that we are judged fairly for our actions.”

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6 To inspect the shoreline.

“Someone, or something, rang the bell. Perhaps our foe had laid in wait nearby in hopes of springing a trap upon those waiting to cross. Shall we inspect the forest nearby for signs that someone was here?”

After hearing Reggard’s call to arms, Alistar steps forward from the crowd and addresses the constable.

”Constable Reggard, sir. Let me be the first, of what will undoubtedly be many, who step forward and volunteer for this quest.”

Then, turning to address the crowd as he slowly ascends the stairs of the small stage, his voice calls out:

”We, as citizens of the Sun, cannot abide the Wickedness of Darkness, whether it be Bandit, Orc or Otherwise. I convey upon this Mission the Blessing of the Radiant Dawn! Let us venture forth, in the Light, and deliver Rescue, Justice or Vengeance, as befits our discovery.”

Perform Oration: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22

Alistar arrives back at the Market, overjoyed that the confidence he instilled in those gathered there earlier has not dwindled as the crowd swells.

Over the cleric's vestments that Alistar has worn everyday of his life, is an old, yet well cared for set of lamellar leathers and a crusader's longsword. Both finely crafted in the fashion of those worn during the Inheritors War. The sight of Alistar armored for battle is not something you would expect to see, and yet, striding forth into the Market crowd, he does not appear out of place.

Alistar gives a steadying hand to old Father Loethren as they make their way to the front of the gathering crowd.

My Lord, I feel the weight of this armor, and the gravity of what I must do to defend our home. But I am comforted in the knowledge that I walk the Path of Light. Guide my sword, Steady my resolve, And I shall give voice to your Glory and convey unto others your Grace.

After finishing his meal Alistar thanks Aldred and heads out for the market. "All are welcome to join me in prayer as we welcome the sun’s breaking of this morning’s fog. Together let us form a joyous chorus to lift our dampened spirits!” Hoping that some will heed his invitation, he exits.

On the way, he gives a silent prayer: My Lord, I call upon your divine grace this dim morning. Bolster my words as I speak of your glory. As his prayer finishes those paying him any attention may notice as Alistar’s hand blooms with a shimmer of divine radiance. Bringing his glowing hand to his heart, Alistar draws the light onto himself (utilizing Touch of Glory to add +1 to my next perform check).

Reaching the market, Alistar finds his favorite spot, a large, mostly buried, glacial stone, lying by a gentle slope just outside the market stalls. Climbing up to the elevated position, he calls out to those nearby. Hark! All those who toil on this darkened morn. Join with me now, in Celebration, and together let us call upon our Savoir to beckon forth his radiance and send this obscuring mist into retreat.”

Perform Oration: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24

”I’m sorry my friend, I know your preference is I not use your establishment as my forum. But as a Shepard must tend to his flock wherever they roam, so to must a preacher seek out his congregation. The melancholy in the air this morn is palpable. I had hoped my words might bring tidings of comfort. Alistar watches as Rast suddenly finishes up and heads for the door. But it pains me to see that my words may be costing you patronage.”

Alistar scans the room, searching for some sign that his words have made an impact. Finding none ”As usual you are correct. Perhaps with the breaking of the fog will come a lifting of our spirits. I shall retire to the market, but perhaps a small bowl of something warm before I go. Thank you Andred, may you ever walk in the Light.” Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25

Alistar somberly heads back to his table, worried as to why one of his better readings, and better deliveries, has fallen this morning upon deaf ears. Dipping his head in prayer, Illandros, My lord and Savior, I beg of the' to hear me now. Father Loethren worries that a darkness is coming. Is this, that your people ever increasing turn from your light, that which he fears. Guide my voice, oh Lord of Light, and grant me strength and wisdom so that I may find a way to lead them back into your Grace.

With vigor, Alistar returns to his Tome, searching for the right passage to deliver at the market.