Search Posts
LoTae does not say much as the others try to rally, but she does respond to Morley in a chillingly calm voice: "Wolves. Very large wolves." She holds her blade ready still, but her eyes dart back and forth from fleeing bandits to the pack in the dust cloud behind them. If there were a leader of the pack to take out, switching to bow and arrow may be the better option... but for now, her sword feels better in her hands. _______________________
LoTae's expression hardened as the conversation continues, though she remained silent still, complacent to listen and observe. When the shout of "bandits" is made, her eyes go wide, and in and instant - almost instinctively - her exotic blade is unsheathed and ready in her hands. With her blade drawn, LoTae's eyes narrow and turn towards the commotion. "It is time to act. If favor is going to be needed, a quick and decisive response to this threat can be used to garner such." She then continues in a softer tone, accompanied by a few graceful gestures of elven spellcraft, and a shimmering glow briefly appears around her as her elven magic takes root. "hynafiaid, yn arwain fy llafn o ddial tra'n amddiffyn fi rhag fy ngelynion ymosodiad." Elven:
ancestors, lead my blade of vengeance while protecting me from my enemies assault. Spellcasting:
Casting Shield. __________________________
For the most part, LoTae did her best to stay out of the humans way. She does not know their politics, and despite not being comfortable, is making a silent yet concerned effort to pay attention. Attention to not only the going-ons, but to how everyone reacts as well. She softly replies to Antha in the elven tongue. Elven:
"I am... surviving. A rude oaf is one thing...[/b]" From her eyes, it is difficult to tell if she is referring to Maegar Varn or Teyran Rilskel. Perhaps both? "...but these events of which you speak... they trouble me deeply. That there is infighting, and even murder among their own kind..." LoTae's expression is somewhere between shocked disbelieve and disgusted horror, but she shakes the expression away. "...but for now I should watch and learn, and not interfere. Thank you for your concern, and the information." LoTae watches the conversation with an ambivalent distance, yet her eyes soften in empathy as Alexis breaks down. Still, LoTae does not interject or interfere, choosing instead to maintain her silence.
LoTae was nervous and and slightly uncomfortable during their approach and initial conversation and during Teyran's introductions of everyone present... but his forced attention on her shocks her. For a moment she is taken aback, and simply glares at Teyran in a mix of wonder, anger, shock and disbelief. But she composes herself and turns to face the new swordlord. "A greeting in the ways of my people: Elen sila lumenn omentilmo..." LoTae bows elegantly as she says this, then continues, "...A star bless this meeting. In these lands I am called Kaz dekhel, and it is an honor to be in your presence, Lord Varn." She bows again when saying the swordlords name, then rises and waits. While during her introduction she was calm and reverant, her brow still shows signs of frustration... though she covers it soon after by shifting her gaze out to the horizons, making sure no unknown creatures are nearby or approaching.
LoTae does not speak. Instead, she simply observes. Her eyes are simultaneously cold, calculating, and curious. Every newcomer is appraised with a glance, sometimes longer than others. Their dress, posture, mannerisms... how they hold themselves and how they address others, are all important facets that LoTae watches for. Without being threatening, her hands remain close the the hilt of her sheathed blade, ready for any dangers that may make themselves known.
Antha: LoTae's expression follows Antha's change in demeanor as she speaks, though her eyes soften sympathetically as well.
"I... am sorry. I give you honor and thanks for being willing to share the tale though... and even more so for your reasons to be here. To seek your own destiny... it is something I long for as well, but..." LoTae's hand rests on her elven blade at this point, not threateningly, but lovingly. "...my legacy is something I feel I can still hold on to with pride." LoTae smiles at Antha, a smile both sympathetic and sincere. After a short moment, she continues. "I do have a message for you though. Again, I must play the messenger of Queen Telandia Edasseril, of the elven homelands in Kyonin. I will not force action, but I am honor bound to speak it, and I hope you will at least listen to my, and through me, her, words." LoTae's transition from her own thoughts to the message she is to deliver is not subtle. It sounds somewhat forced. LoTae is obviously not very good at this sort of thing. "You are welcome within the boarders of Kyonin. We are expanding our horizons, and here within our ancient homeland, you too will find home once more. If you choose to return to us, you will be embraced with open arms." Her tone returns to normal. Her expression a mix of being flustered at her own delivery, and thankful that it is done. "I do have one addition to make. This message is for you... but there are some in Kyonin who are still adjusting to this concept of acceptance proposed by our Queen. I have no doubt that should you wish it, you will find a home and acceptance within our homeland, but it might not always be easy. Our borders are also not actually open to all. You would have to go to Greengold first, and continue from there. But given patience and time, this road can be open for you."
Antha: LoTae smiles. The language shift is obviously making a difference for the better. LoTae continues in elvish, her demeanor much more relaxed.
"If the subject offends, then I do apologize. I do not know enough of anyone here to make such a judgement yet. I would ask of your parents. Particularly of the one whom you gained your elven blood from."
Cool. Also, don't hold up on moving forwards on account of my recent post. LoTae just has one question to ask, and I don't foresee it going of into a huge side-tracking on-on-one conversation, so it could easily be handled in spoilers as we go on. Also also: I hope you get lunch!!! :O
During the hour wait before moving out again, LoTae spends most of her time sharpening her elven blade. However, at one point she approaches Antha when it seems (to LoTae) that they may be able to speak in somewhat privacy. Antha: "Pardon my intrusion... may I have a word?"
The elf woman nods to herself as she listens to the comments. Finally, she looks Lord Garess in the eyes. "As it is now clear that our fates are intertwined - at least for now - a proper introduction is in order." Ever cautious (or is it paranoid), the elf looks around to make sure strange ears are not present. LoTae then bows to Lord Garess in the elven way. "I am LoTae Zhao of Kyonin. I hope our travels will be pleasant and the fruits of our cooperation bountiful."
heh, you Brawler you! ^_^ ...oh, if specifics need to be posted: BAB +1
Canny Defense bonus +1 HP +6 Skill points to: Acrobatics, Know(arcana), Know(dung), Spellcraft, Use Magic Device New spells known: Chill Touch, Shield Spell Memorized: not chosen as we haven't rested yet (as far as I'm aware).
Woo! Good to know! :D *goes and adjusts HP accordingly* EDIT: Thad: hhmm, tough choice. Do you think a defensive option (Combat Expertise) is more important at this level, or the ability to control/isolate a target (Improved Grapple), or the ability to quickly pummel something into submission (Power Attack)... or are all three tactical options on equal footing right now? My feat choices were based on prereqs and my planned progression, as I'll be going the dodge/mobility/spring attack/whirlwind attack route, hence Combat Expertise being my first feat... my low HP was also a factor (I need defense)... but you don't seem to have that issue at all.
The elf woman looks truly distraught at this news. After a moment of silence, she lifts her head and responds. "Then you should know that there are other elves who were sent to these parts by the wearer of the Viridian Crown, Queen Telandia Edasseril herself, just as I was. We each have our tasks, but I assure you they are not cause for alarm, and should you find other emissaries from Kyonin, they should be treated well." Once again she cannot help but glance at Antha as she continues to speak. "If however you come across any of the Forlorn, elves who do not claim Kyonin as their home... I have a personal message for them, from Queen Telandia Edasseril's mouth, through me, to their ears alone." __________
You mentioned we should level. As I joined late, does that include me? Also (and regardless), what should I have my current exp total at? Thanks. ^_^
The elf woman maintains an introspective frown as the conversations continue. As they continue, she inches her way a bit closer to Lord Garess. "I know it must be cumbersome to have so much happening at all sides, and my words are likely seen as not related to your urgency's, but there is another thing I must ask you..." The woman's voice, while always soft, lowers slightly, and an obvious discomfort of the current situation shows on her face. "... have you seen any other of my kind in these parts of late?" Her eyes shift slightly towards Antha, but she quickly returns them to Lord Garess. "Other... pureblood elves?"
The elven woman cannot help but frown at overhearing the human nation's plight. The introspective frown turns into a cocked eyebrow as it turns into discussion among the others. After several moments of awkwardly eavesdropping, the woman draws nearer to Kesten Garess. "Lord Garess? ... If I may speak, I would... like to help." The elf seems to almost choke on her own words, but her eyes show she has recently been thinking very hard on this.
That appears to be the right of it. Or, at the very least... "Here!" *waves*
The elven woman gives the man identified () as Lord Garess a slow and deliberate bow of her head without breeching eye contact, then speaks softly. "Elen sila lumenn omentilmo, heru en amin... A star bless this meeting, unfamiliar Lord. I have made a habit of not speaking names within earshot of enemies." She motions with her head and eyes towards the captive bandits. "I would keep my peace until the brigands are dealt with, and will not interfere with your work until you summon me thereafter." Elvish:
Pretty much exactly as she followed up in common, "A star bless this meeting, unfamiliar Lord", The first part is is a common elven greeting reserved for first meetings or meetings after a long absence, while the second part is identifying people of station that are not well known to the speaker. Sense Motive DC 20: Something about the woman indicates unease. The semi-formal greeting as well as her eyes as they view the budding settlement, all seam to make her subtly uneasy... but she is also fighting that unease.
"Kaz dekhel" cocks and eyebrow quizzically at the name, but for the most part appears oblivious to both it's meaning and to the wound that she just inflicted. "Very well then. شعوذة استدعاء جبل" Spellcraft 16:
She just cast Mount A moment after the strange words, a pure white horse emerges from the woods, fitted with a bit, bridle, and saddle. It casually gallops up to her, lowering it's head into her hand, and she responds in kind by patting it's head and rubbing it's ear. After a moment of bonding, she mounts her steed.
"Schaleth, Prastha, ein x'drik h'layana'shti, ein zen'rach ghahlahc." The elven woman grumbles something that sounds almost like clearing her throat of marbles, or a growl of an angry dog with a far too long tongue. However, her eyes look forlorn while making that strange noise. Draconic:
"Mom, Dad, I wish you were here, I could use/am in need of your wisdom/guidance." "You either don't have a home, a family you wish to protect, or don't even care about such things. You give your name within earshot of known enemies and strangers alike, even though they could use that information against you. I do not give my name because I do have a home and a family to protect, and they-" The elf points to the bound bandits. "-are most definitely my enemy." To say that the elf woman is frustrated right now would be an understatement. She pauses for a moment, at least to collect her thoughts before continuing. "But if you would chain me for that, and no alternative will sway you, then at least let us move from their ears or cover them, to honor the safety of those you do not know." The woman does not yet move, but her stance does shift subtly as if getting ready to run, possibly at the sight of new bindings.
The Elven woman gives Teyran a look that is both fearless and incredulous. "And I am still bloody from the last group of humans that I tried to speak evenly with. You live, and you learn." With those words, the woman glares at one of your prisoners. The intensity of her eyes could cut through steel. But she quickly softens and returns her attention to the others again. "Kind words do not prove you are not dangerous or worthy of trust. But the fact that you have them bound and prostrate is a good start." Finally the elven woman un-nocks her arrow and puts in back into her quiver (which holds many similar arrows), and her expression softens once again. "You also mentioned Brevoy without my mentioning it first. In that - at least for the moment - I must give you my trust, for that is why I am here. The woman pauses for a moment to give Antha an appraising glance. Her expressions shifts subtly from the slightly annoyed look she had with Teyran, to slightly disappointed, to slightly confused, to slightly curious, then finally to slightly ambivalent, all within about two seconds. "Your elf blood represents in you well." She comments quickly and softly to Antha. Ever the hunter, she continues to visually appraise everyone, but her eyes seem to harden only when returning to Teyran (prisoners excluded, of course). And she addresses Teyran again. "You will take me to your Lord."
The woman instinctively raised her bow when one of the other humans approached and raised his hand, but lowered it again with a slight sigh as the healing energies washed over her. Her eyes shift slowly and deliberately over the Thadeuzs. "I did not give it, for there are enemies nearby, and I'm still not sure about you." The woman still seems tense and distracted as she scans the scene, taking in people and faces while replying to Teyran. "Many sounds travel in these woods, and I do not know what you did or did not hear." The elf dismisses the question, but loosens her grip upon the strange arrow of pale green and white wood she had nocked... but does not yet put it away. "I was told that humans had advanced and become civilized in the last several thousand years... but it seems that the old tales of your barbarism still holds true. Most disappointing. What gives you the claim to law and order in these parts?" Knowledge: Nature 15:
The wood the arrow is made of is actually a composite made primarily from a rare poisonous thistle. The thistle is common in the Mwangi Expanse, but a few can sometimes be found within the forest of Kyonin as well. Thin grooves throughout the arrow shaft suggest it may shatter if struck hard enough. GM: Is my prey anywhere in sight? ...I'm not going to do anything violent or dastardly if he is among the prisoners... I just want to know. :)
The elf woman lets this strange human "Tad" take several steps before she begins to very cautiously follow. She maintains her hunting stance and readied bow, keeping a keen eye out for traps... and prey.
Her eyes show that she obviously does not trust this human. She does not lower her bow, nor does she relax her stance... a stance of someone on the prowl. "Lead. I will see this with my own eyes."
DM & Thad: The elven woman appears both fierce and feral. Fresh blood stains her arm from a very recent wound.
Upon seeing the human emerge before her, her eyes flare with a mix of shock and disgust. Her bow and nocked arrow rise slightly, aiming at the man's knee. Threatening, but not life threatening... yet. "Sedanea... more humans." Despite her fine features and naturally silky voice, the disgust and disappointment in her tone is... prominent. Her common is slow and deliberate. "After what I just experienced, you'll understand my reluctance to leap at your offer." She sniffs in disdain, and forces out her next words. "I've come to find human civilization. Instead I find barbarism. Now, I hunt. Are you bandit, or another wandering soul? Speak!"
DM: LoTae doesn't bother with the fleeing woman. She has no knowledge of the ways of humans, and has little care for getting too involved without learning more first. LoTae is also to injured to risk such with so many unknowns about. She needs to see what is going on, then act.
With her bow ready and her thistle arrow still nocked, LoTae slowly makes her way ahead, using the fresh trail of prints and the memory of the explosive sound and mixed shouts as her guide.
Heya! Just a quick little FYI: Real life recently and metaphorically kicked me while I was down, but things are settling down now. I should be posting more regularly now, and will try to post in game within the next 24 hours.
DM: LoTae also rears up in confusion, but takes the distraction as a blessing and not something to investigate right away.
"Damn." she curses to herself. The attack came faster than she had expected and cut way too deep. Still, it was not over, and she could not simply forgive and forget. With eyes filled with dark purpose, LoTae takes a slow deep breath as she readies her composite shortbow. She grabs an arrow from her quiver... an elven arrow often used to hunt large game... a thistle arrow, and nocks it. She carefully scans the foliage around her, hoping to spot the one that cut her. He is in dire need of bleeding.
~ssssssSSSSHHHINK!!!~ ^_^
WOO-HOO!!!
(well, not for the ear infection, but the general better-ness and vacation time) ^_^
lol. Good thing I haven't apologized! ;) Seriously though, I have seen terrible, game-ending fallouts happen when people don't discuss things to ensure they are on the same page, and/or assume that anything is okay without first checking. I'm just trying to make sure there is no conflict in play-style at all. I also work in theatre IRL. Assumptions are very dangerous and I try my best to never make any. (at least in the general sense like this. I will still have my secrets and surprises. Don't worry about that) ^_^ Edit: Huzzah! :D
While we're waiting for our GM to recover, I though it would be a good time to discuss a few character related things. Namely, I don't want to be disruptive with potentially conflicting play styles, and if someone is not okay with some forms of character interaction, I would like to know now so as to not even have it come up rather than to go ahead with something and cause undue strife that cannot be undone. My initial concept for LoTae was to initially be a bit rough around the edges, especially with non-elves, but capable to form bonds with others even stronger than the bonds of family. Of course, with the elven long view of things, such a transformation would take a long time (as in, possibly years). However, once someone earns the title of "Friend", the loyalty between them would be super powerful, and any snideness would be replaced with jovial pranks and genuine kindness, caring, and pride. The possible issue of course would be getting there. Kingmaker type games are generally good for this as it is possible for years to pass quickly. However, I want to put it out there that, if you are all willing to put up with a bit of tension at the beginning (nothing violent though, mostly just some snideness, rudeness, and dismissive comments from time to time), the payoff will be worth it. Of course, if anyone has a problem with this, I will happily yet subtly change this plan to better fit the group and campaign. (and yes, I have done slow character growth like this before, successfully to. Though the success of it was in part to everyone being on the same page at the beginning of it all). ...so... thoughts?
I was getting worried! I still am, but it is good to see you post again, even if it may be a while before the next event. You have all of my best wishes for a swift and complete recovery.
Don't worry, I'll be sticking around. Take your time and get better!
That is sadness! :( I lament never being able to have awkward elf-hobgoblin interactions with you. Another time, perhaps. Of course, you gotta do what is best for you. Good gaming!
"EEEAAAAAHHH!!!" The elven woman screams in pain as the blade slices deeper than anyone expected. She glares at the disgusting humans before her, a deep hatred in her eyes. "Sedanea umartempla saura'!" Elvish:
*censored* human filth! The term itself is actually far more foul, and the inflection of her voice combined with the glottal stop (the ' after saura) indicates a subtle shift in meaning that, for elves, makes it much more derogatory and insulting. No! Not today! not like this! LoTae thinks to herself. Her glare lingers on her attackers in such as way as to declare that under better circumstances, she would return the favor ten fold. However, the slight curl of her lips shows that she (reluctantly) concedes that the current circumstances warrant retreat first, vengeance later. Her footwork is that of one used to fighting on the move, and allows her to avoid retaliation from her would be assailants.
DM: LoTae's eyes go wide with shock (and a bit of mild horror as well... disgusting things, these humans).
"Ugh, I... I assure you, I am no story. LoTae cannot help but express her distaste for these four "men" with the wrinkling of her nose and slight sneer of her upper lip. She tries to swallow her ire, removing the awkward sneer. "Your weapons are not necessary. I simply seek Brevoy. I am tasked to act as envoy, and find any forlorn along the way. I take it from your reaction that you have not seen any other elves in these parts..." LoTae is visably disapointed by this, but continues, "would I happen to be close to Brevoy?" Despite her naive question, her hands cannot help but shift slightly towards her sheathed blade. Kilij has always been a comfort to her, and now - with four ugly stinking humans before her, three with weapons already in hand - comfort is something she desperately desires.
I'm here, patiently waiting for the opportune moment to get in the game. ^_^
... I should have mentioned: I am the player from the other site that was contacted by Arcmagik/DundjinnMasta, not some random hack who decided to put his unwelcome foot in the door. I'm looking forward to continue exploring the greenbelt and the nuances of this character with you all! :D
Someone order a Magus? ^_^ |
