Hylaen's page

An alchemist's hands never really rest. As the first explosion went off, before Hylaen could even confirm the success of his throw, the second volatile mixture was already being prepared. Years of training turned that task menial for Hylaen, so he kept his eyes glued to the Bear. He witnessed when the beast mangled Djebelle as if the brave human was a rag doll.

As he glanced at the bloodied unmoving form on the ground, the thought that came to mind, repeating itself like the echoes from a forge, was we should have brought more spears.

Teagan was faster to go and help their fallen companion, so Hylaen focused all his attention on the bear. The best help he could provide, deal with that beast before more injuried allies.

Bomb: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 181d6 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7

This time I posted. I thought we were waiting on the DM o_o

Hylaen watches as the gory scene unfolds in front of him. With a fast movement, his agile hands take hold of his chemicals, preparing something explosive. The alchemist knew that it wasn't the best weapon against a foe in combat with allies, but he was sure his aim was good enough.

Bomb: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 121d6 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4

Moved near the creature. I am aiming on a square far from allies, if possible, to avoid splash friendly fire

Yes, you can do that and it would resolve before his attack, as an interrupt. You just lose your action if the beast doesn't charge, for obvious reasons.

Most likely it will charge at us.

Not only it has been down a lot, but it gained the annoying habit of logging me out every time. Before, it would stay on my account session forever, now I only need to close the browser tab. Not a major issue, but it gets tiresome.

Perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19

April's group. Hylaen wasn't sure he was happy about this or not. He wasn't even sure what was about that woman that made him so anxious. In his long life, he had charming and beautiful humans before. Wasn't any reason for him to behave so uncharacteristically.
Then Hylaen felt his heart jump and struggled to keep his voice under control, not entirely succeeding.
"W-what do you mean, 'wounded as bad as it looks?'" the alchemist squinted his almond eyes at the group slowly approaching. "Lieutenant, just open the gate, please, I need- we need to see them immediately."

I doubt any other bandits will know more than one of the Stag Lord's lieutenants.

"We don't know that. Bandits are not known to be very careful. The smartest are the leaders, and the woman we captured killed herself before we gathered much from her. It also could be that their loyalty is diminished now that one of the lieutenants was captured, having seen what happens to those that follow the Stag Lord, and can be persuaded to reveal information. The next one perhaps will know just enough to help us devise a plan.

Hylaen stands up and nods as the others starts to gather their belongings. "To the Narlmarches then. To find out who did this. Let's gather enough food so we don't waste time hunting, if our goal is to haste. Although, we should mind out maps and fill them up eventually. I'll see if Oleg needs anything else from me before we depart.

The elf speeds away. Any progress was already something. The grim outpost, the urgence in the air, the lack of his medication, everything was contribution for his impatience.

The Outpost looking grim as it was, Hylaen knew he was the best person to do something about it. As the others helped the survivors, the alchemist used his magic to restore what was left of the place. During the days the followed he worked, stopping only when his task was completed - or when his companions gathered to discuss the matters at hand.

Using creation sphere to repair the entire Outpost, should speed up the process a lot. If necessary, I'll also create new tools and furniture.

- -

Hylaen listens to everything in silence, as always, his mind racing.

"I don't think we should assume the Stag Lord and his band is behind this attack. Sure, he is a good lead, but think. We never seen any of his men using magic, and they have been bullying this outpost before we arrived. If they wanted to retaliate for our attack, wouldn't it make more sense just to come and make a show of their martial superiority than to use tricks like the one employed here, impersonating one of us for... for what reason? Blaming Tegan, and us by association, for the attack?"

He clears his throat before continuing. "Damiel is right. Going after the Stag Lord now would be exceedingly dangerous. We need, at the very least, a well crafted plan. A clever way to infiltrate his domain, a weakness that can be exploited on his defenses, something to work on. Our last prisoner gave us the very basic: a location. Now we need more. If we can find more bandits who are willing to trade us information about their leader, then we can begin preparations. Until then, we should avoid reckless measures."

"Don't let emotions cloud your judgement, young man" said Hylaen, sternly. "Use some logic instead." he cleared his throat.

"We were here before, all of us, our companion Tegan here included, and she was nothing but cordial to you. When we first arrived here, we witnessed just how dangerous these lands can be; this outpost was made victim to an attack and we defended it with all our strength. You can ask about that to Oleg, if our prisoner did not said enough already. We made inquiries about this place's safety, we made efforts to track bandits, we have an actual charter to hunt outlaws around this parts."
Hylaen took a step closer to the human, his usually timid voice very clear and firm now, as if lecturing a child. "Now tell me, why would Tegan - or any of us, as a matter of fact - bother to come here, after all this effort, and commit violence against our sole bastion of civilization in these wilds? Without even hiding her face, even? How does that could possibly benefit us, a group of people who have everything to gain from the elimination of bandits in this area?"

The elf pauses. When he continues, his voice is back to a controlled, soft tone. "As stated, we just spent our last days exploring and mapping territory southwestern of this outpost. It takes us considerable travel time just to reach that region and return, which we did, as proved by these radishes. As all my companions said, Tegan was with us the whole time. Damiel said it best; magic seems a more probable explanation than Tegan doing it by herself, without any of us noticing it."

That made Hylaen think about what kind of magic could that be, though. He knew enough of arcane theory to make an educated guess...

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10
If the test if Knowledge Arcana, the bonus is the same

As Tegan reaches for the front gate, Hylaen stops her.

"Please, keep calm. I have ways of dealing with that. Faster, magical ways. he informs her, quietly. "Let's just hear them out"

Exploring took more time than Hylaen though it would take. The vegetation wasn't kind with them. Still it needed to be done. Days were passed in each other's company and the alchemist took an effort to be more sociable than before. They were more used to one another by now and Hylaen was no exception. The elf could be quite talkative if encouraged - just not much about himself. He kept around and was diligent about his duties. At the evening, the elf would distance himself to rest, so he could at least pu down his mask. The others would certainly be used to it by now, but it never ceased to be a bit awkward to Hylaen.

In the following days, Hylaen had more of the wilderness than he cared to have. Years in the city thought him to dread the uncorfortable nature that bucolic poetry never talks about; the hard earth to lie, the umidity, the scorching sun, the cold night, the ever present insects, the noise of animal life... and yet, the more time spent among the trees, more Hylaen found himself growing found of that distant, quiet wilderness. Slowly, fighting his stubborness, a picture started to form on his mind; a cottage in the woods, a garden, a safe place...

Hylaen focused on what he had to do, annoyed at himself. I'm turning out to be a fine elvish steriotype, after all he thought. Still, it was pleasant to daydream.

At Oleg's once again, the distant view of the ruined tower made something on Hylaen's insides crawl with fear. Approaching the place the sensation turned to dread. "What happened here? he half whispered, pointessly, as they crossed the gate. It was clear what happened there.
"W-Where is Oleg? And the others..." he glances to the only guard. "When did this happen?" questioned Hylaen to the officer as soon as he approached the man, forgetting to greet him as he looked around.

Yay us!

The elf sighed and relaxed his posture. "It was an optimistic approach" he said, witha hint of melancholy. "Sadly not all beings under the sun are understanding. Or willing to do even the smallest of sacrifices."

Hylaen bent down to pick up one of the disputed radishes. It will need a good wash before delivery, that's for sure.

"Since we're already here" suggested Hylaen, now back to his usual practical tone "why don't we fully explore the region? Wipe it clean of dragonflea, if any are left. It's not too late in the day. It will do us good to start with the maps at some point."

As the kobolds move forward, near his companions, it was no longer safe to throw explosives at them. Feeling the cold breeze from Tegan's sorcery in his skin, Hylaen held his spear firmly with both hands and aimed at one of the scaly creatures that was already scorched.

Elven Branched Spear: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 201d8 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7

Hylaen wasn't one to laugh often but even he had difficulty keeping a serious face after that explanation from Tegan. Wasn't as much the content, but the whole situation. Fortunately his mask did half his job of concealing the amused expression. Not that being polite to kobolds was really his concern. As far as Hylaen cared, it was only a matter of time until-

The kobolds shrieked and advanced all at the same time! It was everything the alchemist was waiting for. Hylaen positioned himself at a safe distance and threw his flask at the biggest gathering of kobolds he could find.

bomb: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 171d6 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4
If possible, bomb at an enemy so that splash hit as many targets as possible

When Hylaen woke up, his worries from the day before had diminished somewhat. With April not around, it was easier. More and more, his behavior seemed foolish. And that gave way to a wave of embarrassment that wouldn't abandon him for a while.

The elf discovered over breakfast that his companions had gone forward and interrogated the prisoner and begun plans for the next stage of their travels. He wished he'd been there to assist others with preparations, but now what's done is done. He tried not to think much about that while they traveled. It was convenient, at least. They all choose the same path Hylaen would have chosen himself.

The kobolds were unexpected, but not surprising. A place filled with easy food would attract some kind of gatherer. The small brained lizardman didn't seemed dangerous but Hylaen was happy with pursuing the diplomatic path... as doubtful as it was in succeeding. Leaving Tegan to do the talking - not to confound the simple creature with too much speech, and since the lady as so eloquent in doing so - the alchemist discreetly gets hold of a flask. Just in case.

I'd choose option 2 as well. We should explore some hexes, fulfill other tasks and tackle the Stag Lord once we are better prepared. Unless he forces our hand. That's a reason why we shouldn't take too long, in game, to go after him.

"Offend me? N-No, of course not. You were most gracious, my lady" says Hylaen, holding her delicate hand in both of his, distressed by her sudden sadness. Then he realizes the condencending glare of Ysrra and releases April's hand at once. He was growing restless sitting there, under so many stranger's eyes. When Damiel rises to leave, Hylaen looks at him pleading, and then watches as he walks away.

After that, the alchemist avoids further physical contact with April. He could feel the eyes of her companions and the weight of their judgment. His affection for her was illogic, different from everything else that happened in the past, yet he didn't cared. However, April wasn't there by herself, and neither was Hylaen. There was their rivarly to be considered, and Tegan - and the real reason, Hylaen's own crushing fear of rejection.

When the dinner is over, Hylaen bids April a disappointed good night and goes to his shared room in silence.

Sure, I'll grab the studded leather armor, thanks.

Do I need to roll something to identify the herbal potion? I was only waiting until we got to the base to do that.

Hylaen joined his companion for dinner, of course. It was the polite thing to do. Also, he was curious to know about their competition. As uncomfortable as it was for him, being around adventuring types, the alchemist felt it was his duty to be informed about their affairs. However, as all set down to eat, Hylaen felt somewhat disappointed that both groups had to sit apart in different tables. He was looking forward to enjoy April's charming presence during supper. Now the elf contented himself to glance at her whenever possible and smile shyly from time to time.

Dinner was an uncomfortable, awkward experience, though. Most people ate silently and the elf realized nothing would be discussed between any of them, if unencouraged. It was enough to awake Hylaen’s diplomatic inclinations, despite his timid nature.

”So... how long have your group been traveling along the Green Belt?” asked Hylaen to the other table, in conversational tone. ”We have dealt with some bandits. Have you encountered danger around these parts?”

To Tegan, Hylaen nods. He was looking forward to talk about their future missions. "I will be there".

Ahem.

"April yelps like a frightened puppy seeking refuge in Hylaen arms."

A more faithful depiction.

Hylaen felt his face hot beneath the mask for several reasons.
"Not a terrorist, no" he said, trying to laugh with her, dispite his embarassment. "I was- Am an alchemist. Court alchemist to be precise, in service of House Orlovsky of Brevoy. His lordship from Eagle's Watch send me himself from the top of Mount Veshka to come here with instructions to help the charters. Before this vital assignment, I was responsable for overseeing the development of alchemical weaponry and provisions for defensive purposes. My magical talents allowed me to work in several projects. As an elf, I actually served more than one good generation of the House. The grandfather of the current lord once said my work was indispensable.

Hylaen felt like a fool bragging about himself to others like that, but his mouth seemed to be working by itself and he couldn't stop talking. For Hylaen, alchemy was always more about the accomplishments and the knowledge than the prestige. Although, the elf thought guiltly, he never hesitated collecting the comforts his position awarded him.

April, she said.

It happened all too fast. Hylaen was staring right at her, but failed to notice she was soaring at his direction. Entranced by her silky voice, reacted a second too slow and April was already in front of him, taking up the entire horizon with her beauty.

”Oh my. What happened to your face? Was it a fire?” she inquires reaching out and touching Hylean arm’s in a gently manner, consoling him for the supposed fire that disfigured his face.

His immediate reaction was to run away, but as his arm was held hostage, all Hylaen could do was stay and stare, paralyzed like scared doe. And then, as a reaction that surprised himself most of all, Hylaen let out brief laugh. An honest self assured one, not his usual anxious giggle that is to be expected out of such situations.

”Sorry, my lady” he said, without the usual insecurity. ”It’s just that it has been awhile since I’ve been asked that in such a direct way. Don’t worry, I don’t mind.” The elf adjusted his wooden mask, suddenly worried, aware of how close April was standing. ”A fire it was, yes, in a sense. Lab accident. It is what you get for meddling with explosives for too long” he adds, jokingly, without much humor. Remembering the incident took away the mirth from the conversation. Then he attempted to smile again. ”I apologize for the mask, usually makes things easier for everybody. Not a very interesting story, I’m afraid. I rather hear from you, my lady. You are Tegan’s sister, and part of the other charter group sent to these lands. Now this is an interesting coincidence. Unless it is no coincidence at all? What a lady such as you have been doing in these wilds?”

Hylaen asked in a voice he hoped sounded kind. During all conversation, the elf let April remain with her hand resting on his arm. While in later years he had grown unacustomed to contact of any kind, he found her touch unusually conforting for some reason.

That last post... oh my.
And I must add, now that I'm off work and can acess videos, major kudos for the use of Alice Copper. Well done, sir.

"I-I'll join you!" declared Hylaen, very interested in the welfare of the party's animals, all of a sudden, hastly turning around and almost tripping over Djebelle's heels as he followed the Sarenite to the stables. To deal with a whole band of mercenaries while tired from his journey was one thing, but he didn't even want to consider an Tegan relative at the moment.

In front of the stalls, the elf said "We should give Tegan some time, perhaps... She should have personal matters to discuss" he added, quite formally. His expression was unclear, hidden as always, but the hesitant way he spoke suggested Hylaen never had much intimacy on his life.

Thanks! Not much changed while I was gone... except our our campaign name. Will we become horselords now? Can I relocate a skill point to ride? :)

Oh I have missed some awesome roleplay there, guys. My contribution was short because I don't think there's more use dragging the subject now, I wished I could have joined in as it was being discussed, but I couldn't just let it pass ^^

My trip was great. I was in desperate need of a vacation! Now, back to normal schedule!

After the fight

The alchemist casts a prolonged look at his fallen foes. If the other could see the expression on his face, constantly hidden behind that wooden mask, it would show an uncomfortable blend of sympathy and contempt. Those men had done nothing to win any favors with him. In fact, quite the contrary. Hylaen was at that very moment battling with his own conscience, conjuring up excuses not to act like he once would.

A better solution is a practical solution. Creatures like them are unlikely to learn. Problems solved today will not grow in the future. And yet...

It was Djbelle's argument that strengthened Hylaen's resolve.

"I do know one thing, though: they could have been me. I lost my home when I was 15 - if I hadn't had family to take me in, I could have ended up here. If I had, I would want to be offered another chance to live my life differently."

I was ready to let those humans walk free two days ago for the same reason. They weren't less cruel than these. Hylaen stared at the bloodied ground for a moment and then, suddenly, began to silently prepare his things to depart, gathering confiscated objects and loot, as the matter was already decided. It was, on his mind. Soon enough, the suggestion to move on was made. Hylaen would discuss things with the other if his opinion was asked, or if the subject was brought back again. So far, the decision seemed diplomatic enough.

While others were getting ready, the elf shyly approached Tegan. As requested, he would take care of her injuries - "You seem to have a thing with arrows, don't you?" - and would also offer to have a look at everyone else that were harmed during the fight.

At Oleg's

When they arrive, Hylaen is anxious for a good meal, a good bath and perhaps a comfortable place to sit and drink one of his special herbal infusions - elf or not, it would take a lot of time before he ceased to constantly miss the comforts of the city. Soon enough though Hylaen became anxious for another reason.

The alchemist knew they were bound to meet the competition, but he hoped it wouldn't be so soon. Personaly, Hylaen didn't liked most adventurer types. He didn't considered himself one, being forced into this life instead of following it by choice, and wasn't comfortable among sellswords and treasure hunters, with their bold personalities, tall tales and unstable characters... of at least it was how they were painted among the high class. His own group barely fitted that description. But then again, his lordship wouldn't put him up, Hylaen, with anyone. Would he? At this point, the elf wasn't so sure of anything regarding his lordship anymore.

Hylaen followed his companions, trying to stay invisible under the shadow of his hat, happy to listen instead of speaking, and nervously hoping no one from the opposing group would speak to him.

"W-What are you doing? the elf managed to yell as the agile warrior charged ahead, with sword in hand, to meet his foe. Or his bloody end! he thought. And so his fears were confirmed as the human fell in battle. Alive of dead, no way of knowing from that distance.

Hylaen had no idea what crossed the mind of Viklop. For the nervous elf, that kind of foolhardy behavior was close to insanity. A retreat was looking more appealing by the second, but not until he could at least confirm if Viklop was dead.

The alchemist went ahead and was forced to hide again, looking for protection against the enemies' arrows. As much as Hylaen wished he could rush to his fallen companion, repeating the same act that got him on the ground wouldn't help. On times like these, careful planning is more crucial than ever. First, clear the way.

Aiming for the man that were blocking the path to the fallen warrior, Hylaen threw another of his bombs.

Bomb on man 7: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 81d6 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9

Sorry for the uninspired post. It's late night where I am and I spent the entire day walking and traveling, it was either that or no post at all. I'll make more effort with the narrative as I'm able

Hylaen follows Tegan. Taking another of his vials, he throws it at the enemy, hoping that this time his aim hits true.

Move action: Hylaen stops at the square right behind Tegan. Standard: Bomb bad guy 5.
bomb: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 181d6 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8

"The two men over there!" Hylaen points to the couple directly above them (man 3 and 4) and looks at Tegan. "We need to get them down fast". We need all the others down fast as well .

Hylaen looked around for better options but it seemed there were none. Praying it would work, he charged forward to the best cover he could find and threw his flask upward.

Bomb: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 51d6 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9
Bombing whoever seems more injuried between 3 and 4.

The forest explodes with fire and sound. Hylaen felt pain that stopped almost as fast as it came and the elf had the urge to jump behind the nearest barrier that isn't on fire, a natural reaction to being hurt. The closest obstacle between him and the enemy was the wagon, though, and the elf wanted to be as far from it as possible. If only he could get near enough to throw some of his own fire at them...

2 Move actions: Run to the spot behind the first tree below the fallen log that the two men are hidding behind, on the lower right quarter of the map. Using phone so can't move my token, sorry

"If you're worried about an ambush, I have a few prayer mantras that will protect me. I could walk out towards the wagon and see if anyone tries to attack."

"Very brave" said Hylaen to the cleric, sincerely. The elf let out a sigh of relief when the suggestion was accepted. His appreciation for caution was great, some would say even too big at times - and proportional to his anxiety - but that much hesitation was nerve wrecking. He could feel the sweat on his palms under the gloves, the nervous twich on his eyelids and was pretty sure everyone around could hear his heartbeat.

"I'll cover you as well Djebelle. Go on. We are prepared to deal with situations like this, aren't we all?"

Holding his spear with one hand, Hylaen took out a flask and waited, showing less of his usual patience.

Hylaen listens to Rendyl carefully.

”I am capable of stealth as well if necessary, until the time of act is upon us said the elf from the shadows of his large brimmed hat. ”We should go carefully and see how many man they have, how strong are their defenses. From what we’ve seen before, they're not well trained or prepared to handle a group like ours, but we shouldn't be too confident.”

I’ll get on my plane soon. It will be a 12 hour flight so it will take a while before I can check the forum again, sorry.

A whole day riding wasn't something Hylaen was used to. By the time night has fallen, the alchemist was sore in more places than he thought he'd be. Rendyl seemed to know how to track the lost horse, and the whole group trusted him to, so Hylaen went along gladly. He tried to think of topics to chat with his companions, so the day could pass by faster.

As they stopped for the night, Hylaen unsaddled his horse and removed all his packs, relieving his burdens, then gave it water following the example of those who knew more about taking care of animals.

"I have first watch" the elf voluntered, sitting with his back against a tree, munching some dried fruit.

Sounds like the best course of action.

Sad to hear it. Hope you get better soon :)

Sorry for the delay. I tried to write as fast as I could - as you can see from the several mistakes I noticed only now and can't edit anymore ¬¬'
I'll wait for you before posting more then. Tomorrow might be a better day.

In the morning

The next day, Hylaen woke up late. The last the rise, much to his annoyance. It was that place, he knew it. The birds chirping, the bucolic peace, the lazy morning light… it called to his elven nature, something the passage of time could never erase.

The Green Belt. It had none of the urgency of the road and was nothing like his life in the city. As the elf tamed his tangled black hair into the customary braid, memories flooded over him. The last decades were spent in a blink of an eye, in the rush of progress. Hylaen used to live for his work, nothing else, hurrying from one project to another, among experiments to perfect his craft and please his master.. No elf understood why he oblidged to such lifestyle, but the truth is that, despite his constant complaints and lack of sleep, Hylaen loved it.

The elf followed a bird with his eyes, as it flew past the walls of the outpost, outside the window. Hylaen sighted. How… rural he thought, wishing he could be back in the city. Absent-mindedly, the elf rummaged through his pack and produced a small vial from one hidden pocket. A small sip of his old medicine, something to give that day a proper start. He couldn't afford to feel slow on his first morning.

Meanwhile, as the prisoner is questioned

”Ah, Oleg, my good man! How does this beautiful morning find you?” Hylaen marched towards the old human, smiling broadly, not waiting for his reply before going on: ”I meant to talk to you about your wagon, the one full of crates, yes? Well, you might have the charred parts and I apologize for that. You see, I am known for sometimes using fire during hostile situations and got a little carried away yesterday, but don't you worry, I will take of it right away, being my responsibility and all, it will be good as new!”

As he talked loudly, so Oleg could hear him even at a distance, Hylaen hurried to where the wagon was placed. With his portable alchemical kit in hands, humming as he worked, the elf quickly mixed the necessary components to wake the magic inside of every matter, be it living or dead, and warp it to his will. Pouring the mixture over the damaged wood, Hylaen manipulated the strings of magic carefully, removing the excess of fire and restoring earth and water…

Minutes later, the wagon as good as new. Hylaen went back to Oleg. ”There you go. Tell me, is there anything else of the sort you need done? Any tool you might want, anything really, just ask, I already have my kit in hand, why not use it?” said the elf, smiling excitedly.

If Oleg informs him of the roof that needs fixing, Hylaen will do so using his Creation sphere powers.

”Tell me… he says to Oleg, finally. ”Where are the others?

If informed, Hylaen joins the rest of the group, looking around curiously. ”Good day. Did I miss all the... Oh." He stares at the impressive white horse for a moment, but says nothing. ”Hm… so, what are we doing today? Are we going out?”

I know it's late to add my mind to the discussion, but I agree that loot should go to whoever needs it. If something is useful for everyone, we keep it as party loot and share it. Things are less complicated this way, and keeps the comraderie alive ^^

Talking about loot, Hylaen will take a longbow and throw his shortbow to the loot pile. I would also love to keep those bottles of Alchemist Fire, if no one objects giving the icendiary elf even more firepower.

Just so everybody knows, I'll travel abroad next week, on the 11th, so I won't be as active here in the forum. I'll still have my phone and occasional wifi signal, also I intend to keep up with the story, but do expect less elaborate text coming from me for a while. Thanks to the preparations, I'm also swamped in things to do... I'll try to update on Hylaen's actions soon :)

It was Hylaen's turn to scowl this time, it's impact somewhat subsided by the mask, but the offense was clear in his voice. "Nothing is being taken. It was freely given. And I obviously meant to unload the wagon, we have one already anyway he grumbled, low voice, speaking his mind even when he was not sure anyone would listen. The elf fidgeted with his many pockets, pretending to be looking for something as he glanced discreetly at the wagon.. His bombs shouldn't have damaged the goods all that much. But then again, he wasn't really paying any attention to it at the moment explosives were being thrown around, was he? Well, I should compensate Oleg for it then. A new wagon will do well. And anything needed, of course. Just need some components, maybe tomorrow I could…

As the others continue to speak, Hylaen is only half listening. The elf is brought back from his anxious thoughts in time to catch Tegan’s last sentence.

”Yes, it is late, I will look for the others. We should lock our prisoner somewhere empty for now, while we wait for Garess’ party. Or at least until we all discuss what to do with him. I don’t think we alone are in the position of making anyone dance at end of a rope yet” he adds, grimgly.

Hylaen smiles back at Tegan, relieved that the inhabitants of the outpost were alive and well, and that nothing disastrous came out of it - despite the death of criminals, that is, but those men seemed way too insistent to let the situation end in blood doesn’t matter what. The alchemist greeted Oleg and Svetlana politely and let Tegan do the talking.

”I don’t know such person, as for the bandits, I couldn’t say the best way to deal with them, but I think bringing them to justice is the correct way, right?”

”Who is the representative of the king’s justice around this parts, if I may ask?” Is there one? questioned Hylaen in his mind. The whole purpose of their arrival was to extend the kingdom’s influence over the border, after all. ”If we are to bring those man to the law, is our choice to march back only to deliver them?”

He looks around again then mention the wagon ”Guess that’s yours now, it’s the least I could do to repay.”

As he talked, Hylaen walked towards Oleg. The elf looked inside the wagon to inspect it’s contents. If the couple wanted them to have it, he wasn’t going to argue, specially if anything there could be put to practical use. "Thank you, he said, softly.

”Yes, please.” Tegan offers a weak smile: ”I’m afraid I don’t know how to take care of wounds like this.” Tegan gestures at the arrow lodged in her shoulder.

Hylaen nodded briefly and sat down with Tegan, mechanically unpacking his balms and mixtures for the purpose of tending the injured. The formal education of a court alchemist ment at least basic training of a chirurgeon, knowledge of anatomy and natural philosophy, even for those who went on different pursuits, like Hylaen, and the elven alchemist proudly - almost obsessively - excelled in all his studies.

”It will be quick” he promises. Won’t be pulled out, though.

Hylaen took off his gloves with some hesitation, revealing unsightly charred hands, and evaluated the injury. He applied a salve to numb the skin, broke the shaft, then removed the arrow from the other side of the shoulder, not to lacerate the tissue any further by pulling the arrowhead. The pain wouldn’t last long. After cleaning, some dressing on the wound, she would feel brand new.

Heal: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24

The uncomfortable silence was weighing down on them as the alchemist worked. After what they have been through, the atmosphere felt heavy. Hylaen felt he should say something.

”They are right, you know. Those people could have been just merchants.” he said and regretted immediately. There was nothing Hylaen could add that the others haven’t already said. No reason to bash the message on the girl’s head. A minute of silence later, the elf decided to try another approach:

”I’ll let you in a little secret.” his tone was nervous, but he also sounded more at ease at the same time, as someone looking for an excuse to connect. ”I also have difficulty getting hold of my emotions sometimes. It was worse in the past. What I do to keep myself focused… I breath deep and recite some complex alchemical formulae in my mind. You could try it. Not with alchemical formulae.” he added in a hurry. ”Perhaps list your favorite types of tea or the best places you ever been. Anything that's meaningful to you, that can clear your mind for a while.” Hylaen shrugged. ”Who knows? Maybe it’s just rubbish. But maybe it will help you out on the long run.”

As Tegan stands to hug him, the elf takes a while to realize her intentions, which only makes the moment more awkward. He embraces her quickly, embarrassed, increasingly self aware by the second, and also of how unfamiliar they still were to each other - Oh what was I thinking giving unrequested personal advice like some old wise man like that?? - and of course of how attractive Tegan is. Yet, as she thanked him, Hylaen simply smiled. Up close, the scarred side of his mouth made his tiny grin look crooked, but it was sincere, even if not very pretty.

---

Hylaen awaits patiently for Oleg and whoever else might be with him to answer. As Tegan joins him, the elf suddenly realizes that a exotic stranger with a mask may not be the best person to negotiate with someone that was almost robbed, so he hangs back a little. Hylaen considers taking out his mask, but the feeling of shame is too great. That would only make everything worse, for sure.

Happy birthday Tegan :)

I'm sad I went straight ahead and spoke to Oleg, i missed out the roleplay lol But then again Hylaen is a practical guy.

”Is everyone allright? May I assist with healing?” asks Hylaen shyly, adjusting the mask on his face, looking around to his companions. His stare lingers at Tegan and her blood stained clothes, but dares say nothing else. After Rendyl’s outburst, the elf prefers to stay silent and not stir conflict. If necessary, his services would be requested. The thrill of the fight was wearing off and he was starting to feel sickened. ”Let me know if I can be of use...”

Hylaen will use his skill of Heal on anyone that requires, also on the surviving bad guy (unless Djebelle's heal already worked on him).

Hylaen decided to be practical. He checked the bodies for survivors - "One of them is alive!" he warns - and then went to the door of the home where the true inhabitants of that place had locked themselves.
”Hello?” he said loudly, trying to sound friendly and inspire some confidence. ”We come in peace. My name is Hylaen. I am- We are the charters sent from Brevoy. Perhaps you were warned of our arrival? I’m sorry you had to see, or hear, that violence. We are glad we could prevent the worse from happening. If we could talk face to face I promise you will find us most amiable.”

That horse getting away was unfortunate...

Btw, could someone put Hylaen just above Vik? I'm on phone. Not that it matters now, I think the fight is pretty much done, but makes more sense with my post.

Spear: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 241d8 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 1 = 3
Should have been 20 due to Serendipity

Hylaen hits with his spear when he gets a chance and then looks around. The fight seems to be over. The enemy scattered, fleeing in fear. Although the alchemist always believed in never leaving chance for the worst to happen, he was never one to beat on a dead dog. Not anymore, that is. Not the new me. Hylaen is content to stand near his companions, in standby, spear in hand. If any of the bandits turn suicidal and act violent, Hylaen would retaliate.
The elf didn't really cared about capturing them for the law. Perhaps after staring death in the face, they would change. Hylaen knew that could change a lot in a person. Not always for be best. But not necessarily for the worst too.

Back against the wagon, hiding from the comeback, Hylaen never saw the explosive it the mark, but the smell of burn flesh was a good indicator of what had happened. That, and the screams. Tegan was still the main focus of the enemy - oh, backwood humans, so easily impressed - so Hylaen peeked safely at the frontline, trying hard not to care for the smoking content of the wagon or the blackened form laying on the ground.

As his companions went forward against the leader of the brigands, Hylaen decided to follow. Unstrapping his thin elven spear, the alchemist positioned himself strategicaly, to prevent the enemy of gaining any advantage.

Free action: Drop shortbow. Two move actions: Draw spear and move in map.
In case of AoO, Hylaen is using an Elven Branched Spear, which grants +2 on attack rolls provoked by movement.