I'm sorry for not having been able to post. I've been in a bit of a nightmare with a small coma.
I was in the hospital, because some drunk in a truck rammed into my side at 56mph on March 1st. I [drove] a small Volvo, and am fortunate to be alive.
With this behind me, I don't know if I am able to continue. My studies are behind, and I have to either make up my work or drop the class. I will simply drop my position in this game, as I will in all my others, and wish you all the best.
Towards the future, and to new heights, my compatriots. It has been a pleasure.
With her mind fresh on the battles before this, Syl does nothing. it is here she remains on top of Ansrithar, and catches herself, keeping her body in mind after such a horrific encounter that almost cost her her life. It seems she is content to do so - though, she seeks out the leaders of this small gathering of men, Ansrithar eagerly circling.
The white dragon keeps up this pattern for quite some time, as he agrees what he sees is not all that is waiting for them. He seems more than ready as he eyes them, thinking of a feast to await them at their next rest stop, for he grew hungry, and thought of them as fish in a barrel - at least, right now.
Syl will hold her action every round, while Ansrithar merely keeps moving in a circle. If they're here, the spec-ops will show themselves.
Syl is rejoiced at the healing she receives from the kind gentleman, and bows slightly after standing - her wounds are deeper, but she seems to be able to manage for now. Ansrithar nods approvingly of the other in turn, and moves to allow Syl to rejoin her place atop of him.
She clears her throat, and is moved over to the others, hearing all that had been said of these blades of darkness. She smiles faintly.
"I will take them for the time being. In time, I may come to redeem them for what they are, or destroy them so none may ever use them for evil again. Is that satisfactory with you all?
At Damian, she nods. She realizes most of this is her fault to begin with, but is eager to agree - they need to move quickly. The thought of losing what they came for bothers her visibly, but she dismounts and moves to gather the black blades, putting them and their holsters either on her, in a bag, or on Ansrithar, however many there are. It seems almost proper to her to be the caretaker of dark artifacts, in her mind.
Ansrithar finally makes it over to where the commotion is going on. On his back is a very tired-looking Syl - there's no cuts or bruises, but her entire body looks weakened as she holds onto the reins. Her hair is no longer quite as kept as it usually is, more on-end as though she had been struck by lightning.
She gives a weakened smile as she moves over to them all, and is aided by her trusted companion off the saddle, where she presumes to sit in the snow, and lay back to face the sky. It's here she actually gives this look of happiness - as though she were reminded of home.
"I hope we found what we were looking for," she manages up at nobody in particular. "Because I'm in no mood to go any further - did we save everyone, too?" is the last thing she says before she closes her eyes, and leans back further.
Ansrithar seems bothered, and lays down beside her, protectively. He actually speaks out to the group nearby.
"Pardon - we could use some assistance over here. The lady is frailer than she shows, and seems too proud to admit to needing help..."
She smiles lightly at that, and moves to sit up, eagerly awaiting answers and a chance to relax.
It is with great prowess that she rolls with the blow, following through on her attacks. Her blade cuts deep, and she seeks but to return the blows hand-in-hand, for she appears weary, moreso than she had earlier.
She seems to glow with a soft holy light before she continues to strike, her blows becoming more numerous with every push.
Ansrithar, meanwhile, continues to circle around for a fly-by attack.
DRA, we can discuss what I've been doing before battle later. For now...
She had waited long enough.
The paladin of Sarenrae, known for her eagerness, her charity, and her virtue, had taken in patience, and took caution with a larger battle. This scale was not her forte, for she desired to never be surrounded willingly by the enemy, and give them a free hit as they had the other day - even now, her leg was still bandaged, for her armor had not covered it well-enough. Her blonde hair soared in the winds about them, and she brushed it to ensure her visibility was clear and without error.
Ansrithar writhed beneath her. He desired nothing less than to be as she had - eager, if not brash and wishing to remove the foes from the battlefield. The fierce white dragon growled up at its bound sister, and lovely compatriot. He was growing impatient as the battle raged on, his tail swiping viciously in the air with all of its might. Wings flapped slowly, wishing he would have more to do.
For the next few seconds, she watched Damian remove two elementals from their planar bindings, and gave a smile at how he changed battle. He had tremendous strength, and heart to match, but it seemed to lack some sort of guidance in her eyes, as though he wore too much weight under his toughened hide.
She noted the two newcomers with silence, and appeared as cold as her home, as though she were the only one who stood out amongst them all - which, most likely, she did, with Ansrithar in tow. She drew out her blade, the scimitar forged by monks of her religion with care, and let light catch its blade if there was any to catch, and called out into the air before her as she gave her commands.
Ansrithar. Let's get the southern route - they can handle the others. Move with grace, my dear - we must save these people from their doom.
You need say no more, Sylsalitae. We will do as She wishes, always.
It is with feral agility that the dragon performs a swirling dive, a brave and resounding roar echoing throughout the area in a challenge to all who dare face him, as though he were the most dangerous foe to face. But, what comes after is a heralding cry, from the female's lips and boldly filling the air around them.
"This day is dark, and the foes before us are strong! It is with all of my heart that I call for aid, that I call for Sarenrae to bestow her gifts upon us! The foes before us are many, and we are but few in seeking to protect them from harm! I pray for your strength, and I pray for your guidance! We will bring the dawn to all before us, and allow them to bask in its glory! For Sarenrae, for our friends, and our allies! For the light in all of our hearts, we defend you with all of our might!"
With her blade drawn, and her lance remaining in the saddle, she forces Ansrithar to swoop in and drop her off before the elemental's might, where he will eventually circle back around. She clangs the blade to her buckler, and proceeds to allow her hair to fly loosely behind her.
"Come at me, beast! Your kind will not be victorious here! You will pay for your transgressions unless you leave this instant!"
Readied Action - if attacked in melee, Syl will strike back - if at reach, she will partial charge whoever is doing so in retaliation. Otherwise, she will be within 20' of the elemental, preferably behind it.
Returning from hiatus. I'll be coming back one game at a time as my workload balances out for a new semester.
It's good to return to you all as a part of the group, and I'm catching up on all the events that have occurred.
AS for your massive hits, Damian, it was the last thing on my mind when I made Syl. I made her out of pure flavor and style, fitting the class levels to her life and the changes that occurred around her. It's how I make characters nowadays, fluid and roleplay-filled!
Well, I'll sit out of combat until its over, and we'll see what's changed. I think I need to level or something? Don't remember if I read that here or somewhere else. xD
EDIT: Actually... if you don't mind, I might jump in...
Now that I have some word on how things are going, expect me back in about two-three weeks. Classes will slow down at least, and my next set seems easy enough.
So, a temporary absence - In your own words, DRA, Syl will do all she can to further the rescue effort, and ensure all she can find are saved. She's willing to sacrifice everything except for Ansrithar to meet this goal.
Hi all. I don't know if I can continue to participate in any games on here, because I'm becoming extremely stressed out right now with everything around me.
I'm having difficulties progressing with my studies, and I need to re-assess my priorities. I will be reposting this in all of my games, since it is accurate and reflects taking responsibility for my action or inaction.
I really want to continue, but it does not look good for me now. I wish you all the best, and will try to return soon - because I'm in need of a stress-release, and I can't give you my best when I'm not at 100%.
I'm sorry that I haven't kept up. College decided to slam me with assignments, and even now I'm pressing to get it done before tonight. I'll try to post later today or tomorrow, but no guarantees. Will be back as soon as I can!
Syl carefully kneels beside the wounded woman, and can only believe what her faith tells her - that she must use what power she has left on this woman, and pray for the best. She places her hands accordingly, and channels through from her link, praying all the while that this will cure her of her ills and problems. Self-sacrifice was the utmost miracle she could give to others, and to lighten their load.
And that was Ansrithar's plan.
He charges again, his teeth seeking another taste of the creature's hide to rip it apart before it can escape again - and also seeks to entangle it within its jaws, hoping to keep it still. This way, he distracted them from the others, and kept the focus on him - and showed his true alignment.
Syl is smart enough that if she took the time to mount up, she'd already be dead. Instead, she relinquishes her combat o Ansrithar, who is more than happy to proceed.
Presume all Syl will do is hide in the hut with the survivors this combat - she has her blade drawn and ready near the door with her standard action after this round.
Ansrithar grins with excitement, and turns to face the enemy. With wings spread wide, he roars in his glory, and charges downwards into the closest foe, teeth moving to clench and tear at flesh with his might.
Intimidate for roar?1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13 AC -2 for one round Attack Roll (Charge)1d20 + 8 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 8 + 2 = 20 Damage1d8 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5
What Syl does is continue her work, though she will speak back with Brook. She gathers the few she could save, and places them in the hut where they are all gathered. She finishes the last bandage, and kneels beside the boy, running her hand through his hair.
"Are you hurt any? No, don't appear to be... Yes, I am indeed a paladin - we come from all walks of life, and it is with my duties that I acted so rashly. I would rather be here, and save what lives I can, than to have simply flown over and gone on. It was difficult to bring them back from the brink, but through Sarenrae's mercy I could. However, we will need to run soon, but if it comes to it, I can put you on Ansrithar in an emergency."
She looks to the sky, and receives his message - she sighs outwardly, and nods.
Come on down, then. We need to evacuate.
As you wish - I hope they aren't too heavy.
She stands up, and pats him on the head once. "Best get what you can salvage - these people need something to cling to. If you're quick like I think you are, and smarter than most, grab some trinkets lying around, broken or not, and I'll tell you what to do next. But hurry!"
She turns the older man, probably the elder, and bows. "I don't know if any of these are the Ana you speak of, ser, but I could only save them - I lack the powers of a true priest, I'm afraid."
At that statement, she sounds very sorrowful - as if she wished she could have been here sooner.
Syl was more than thankful for the aid she received - though she had acted in recklessness, she did so only out of the grace of her heart, for she could not bear to watch innocents suffer. Her immediate attention once the orcs have started to run is to begin tending to the people of the village, moving about in a crazed blur.
Ansrithar, on the other hand, begins to circle around, and patrols the skies above while his rider continues her work. He believes that she will find some purpose to this, though some part of him still aches for combat. It was one of the few times he had done nothing to assist, and it disturbed him for the time being.
The paladin of Sarenrae moved from person to person, stabilizing as many as she could, and attempting to revitalize those with grievous injuries. It is with her hair falling around her face that to some, she may appear angelic, as her face smiles on success.
"Come, everyone - gather in the courtyard, now. We need to get you all patched up and on your way. Don't worry about this wound, now - I've had worse - you need to focus on yourself! Here, let me help you with that."
Many more conversations similar occur, as she has not seemed to take the time to heal herself, or even wrap the fresh slice. It's almost humbling.
Using all of my Lay on Hands to do what I can for the people. That's 4 uses, and I have the Heal check. Presume I take 10 in whoever I can get to, starting with those at risk of dying first.
Sorry all for taking so long to post. I had my session go extra-long tonight, since my players wanted to finish Kingmaker's first part. Only one of five lived to tell the tale. Anyways, to my post!
Syl was more than surprised to find some common-orc laughing and sneering about a simple, simple cut to her body. This spills red blood on the ground, and stains her cloak, and her cloak easily displays this to all around her - but it is discarded by a shrug of her shoulders.
"If it's dinner you want, best expect to taste my steel!"
She slings her scimitar about, and does what she can to dice and slice at her attackers, aiming to undo their leader first to reduce morale.
Sorry about my lack of posting, lately. I've been dogged still, and now I'm finally balancing out. Here goes nothing.
Sylsalitae takes no pleasure in her deeds. It is with a grim face, and her blade drawn, that she decides she needs to make this personal, and will leave her mark on their military force, one way or another. She draws out her lance, and holds it aloft as they close in on this, and when she hears them call 'dive in', it is too tempting to pass up.
Syl whispers to Ansrithar, "Let's give them what they want. Do a pass and then join me later - I will show them to burn innocents for toys."
As you wish. I hope you know what you're getting into.
With all of her wisdom and all of her years, she performs the most foolish move she has done in quite some time - she drops her advantage and moves to fight on fair ground. But the way she performs this is what is most amazing.
Hero Point - I need to make this happen.
Syl stands up from her saddle, and holds it aloft. She cries out into the bitter sky, "For Sarenrae, and all of the people you have murdered! Repent, and face your sins in the next life!" She finds this still distasteful, but as Ansrithar moves forward over the horde, she aims for the lone hobgoblin, and figures him to be in charge. With lance in hand, she dives off the back of her white dragon, and arcs her lance into an impaling point at the goblin's chest. From here, if successful, she will draw forth her scimitar after rebounding, and landing firmly on her feet.
What rolls would you like? Since this is an 'insane' action, per the rules, I need to know what you'd like me to do to try for this!
It is unfortunate that the others seek to head towards the butte, or at least think of it - for the moment the lady sees the sight of smoke in the distance, her thoughts change. She nods, and whispers to her companion, before informing the others.
"We should go there soon, if not immediately. Let us begin to change our course."
"My friends, there seems to be some sort of commotion ahead of us - that could be innocent lives at stake - and I will request your assistance in the rescue or investigation of whatever it may be, for I am already committed to the task in the name of Sarenrae! Hyah!"
With such agile grace, and the air seeming to not bother her at all still, she hangs close, and Ansrithar dives hard in order to gain more momentum and speed towards the smoke column.
Ansrithar is immune to the cold; Syl has resist 5 cold, but that is not the same! Fortitude Save vs Cold1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 12 + 2 = 27
Syl knows this temperature. She knows how it can lick at your body, and make you think you're still warm enough to get through, that you may somehow persevere - and that it will get you when you least expect it. This knowledge ensures that her survival will occur, and it's here that she will actually take her hood off, and let her golden hair flow again - but only once the silence between them all has happened.
She begins to softly sing, her eyes closed as she is fully relaxed within the sky - it seems that she has often done this, and lets her lungs clear this dread that seems to linger still. Her voice is soft, and melodic, and echoes around them in the eerie way that elves can do. It is slow, and almost melancholy, but it seems to flow easily.
Song (Elven):
"E ils fmailanircalala
Laaw E laila
Iream nyeycw aey oelw sa irama
Aey, eo ilcc irilela nymelalaaw sa amila
Yla'tyanyanawca... omes amirama
E oaac cena E ils wmailselv
Irecw sa nycelaa
Anesemmeam sila fa vela.
Anirela ela il sesalan
Eo faceao
Anirela ela il sesalan
Silwa eo wmailsla
Aey oeylw sa irama anewila
El anira nyecwalaan amelanam leviran
Anirela sesalan ela eym meviran.
Leam, sa ceela anacc sa ilcc
Oem aailmla ama'ela faal iltyilman
Wew aey irailm anira seylanilel oilcc
...sa fmenal irailman
Wel'an amilna sa eo E's wmailselv
Irylair sa wailm
Fanyilylaa anesemmeam sila fa vela.
Celaan el anira tymalaalan
E illalayma
Anirela ela anira sesalan
Laila le sema
Aey oeylw sa irama anewila
El anira nyecwalaan amelanam leviran
Anirela sesalan ela eym meviran.
Anirela ela il sesalan
Eo faceao
Anirela ela il sesalan
Silwa eo wmailsla
Aey oeylw sa irama anewila
El anira nyecwalaan amelanam leviran
Anirela sesalan ela eym meviran.
Song (Translated):
Yes, I stole a song. All rights to its owner - but it fits! (imo) I am breathless
Need I say
How could you find me here
You, of all have crossed my way
Unexpectedly... from where
I feel like I am dreaming
Hold me close
Tomorrow may be gone
This is a moment
Of belief
This is a moment
Made of dreams
You found me here today
On the coldest winter night
This moment is our right
Now, [my love] tell me all
For years we've been apart
Did you hear the mountain fall
...my broken heart
Don't wake me if I'm dreaming
Hush my dear
Because tomorrow may be gone
Lost in the present
I assure
This is the moment
Say no more
You found me here today
On the coldest winter night
This moment is our right
This is a moment
Of belief
This is a moment
Made of dreams
You found me here today
On the coldest winter night
This moment is our right.
It is almost without a thought that Syl thinks of others before herself - after all, she is used to weather that is worse or similar to this, and altitudes as well. She speaks up boldly, and turns to face the rest of the party.
"I offer my share of a potion to the boy with Sir Damian - he is young, and may suffer worse than any of us here. I look not to make him endure such harsh temperatures so early."
Here she snuggles a bit closer into her furred cape, and pulls the hood up over her head - pushing her hair down in turn, for the cold may yet touch her skin and cause discomfort - something she was not very wanting to show.
It was with a cold compassion that Syl watched the events, and it brought a small bit of humanity back to her features - her battle-trance had ended, and with it, all needs to focus on movement were made. As she had rejoined formation with the group, she was already treating the wounds to Ansrithar.
Lay on Hands x3 3d6 ⇒ (6, 4, 4) = 14 healed from 26 damage.
The elven noble caressed her trusted companion, and uttered sweet nothings into his ear, promising him things none else could hear. This brought a bit of new life into his wings, and his wounds started to mend.
"Come, friends! We must make haste, lest we allow our foe's weather to batter us! We can soar above it, or we can dive through the pass! I leave the decision to you!"
She seems prepared, either way - she sheathes her blade, and utters a quick prayer in turn - and looks onwards, unable to really decipher as much as she would want. However, she does grip the sides of Ansrithar, and narrows herself so he may gain speed.
I hope you know what you're doing. You know the path they will take.
I just got home from school. There are no computers in this class, so my posting is shorter and more limited during Tues/Thurs. Anyways - on another note I am completely exhausted and ready to bomb into bed, so forgive me for just giving you numbers.
Mounted Combat 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (9) + 11 = 20 Spending Hero Point for an extra action (5? remaining) Focus = Move, done. Fly check1d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22
With much grace and movement, Syl makes every attempt to keep Ansrithar moving, and keep the pace. However, noting that the foes she had meant to distract were moving back, she made Ansrithar double over, and issued forth a command. She hates to leave her companions behind, and realizes the harsh repercussions it may have in turn.
With this command, the two fierce and northern warriors charged forth at (my #1), and with scimitar drawn, she eviscerates the wind as it closes for the kill!
(AC -2 for both, Ansr is -22 from max [need to run out the door soon]) Syl - attack1d20 + 13 ⇒ (1) + 13 = 14 Syl - damage1d6 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10
With the call to battle mere moments in the making, Syl saw no time to waste. It was with Ansrithar, and the professor's spell, that they moved faster, and had more time to strike (and less time to be hit!).
With all due haste the pair was agile, and moved almost as fast as the griffon normally could - but they were more sleek, and could make narrow passages whilst others could not. That was their advantage, but in time this would vanish. For now, Syl readied her lance, but made no attempt to charge - instead, she and Ansrithar broke formation as the others had. And Syl had a plan. She, instead of putting the lance at point, put it back in the holster, and instead drew scimitar! Fine steel gleamed still as she held it aloft, and Ansrithar was quick to leave the scene with her in tow - but where? He'd go up!
Up he went, and would keep increasing his altitude (Moving forward 5' diagonally up, and then 75' up) until he found a good, balanced level, and then turned to go forward - they were told to not stop at any cost, for that was the mission given to them, and Syl would follow it to the letter. Thus was the cost of war.
Focus: Move action, done. Standard: Swap weapons (I guess?)
Ansrithar's Actions: Doublemove: 5' diagonally up-and-forward, 75' up, then 5' diagonally up-and-forward (costing 10), and then 90' forward.
Syl begins her final preparations. It's that morning that she awoke bright and early, and managed to be in the courtyard for the official sunrise, the moment of glory for her to be awake for.
She fell to her knees before the dawn, and closed her eyes in one more prayer to her goddess.
May the Dawnmother grant us her warmth and light in the battle against corruption and darkness this day, for the deeds before us are great and the hardships are many. May she look after my family in the north, and may her blessings always be upon my companions and family before me - for I am blessed enough to feel this fraction of power.
I thank you, Sarenrae, for the opportunity you have given myself and Ansrithar, for without your wisdom and guidance, we would not be here today. May you cover the world in your grace and mercy this day. Glory to the Dawnmother.
She was perched atop a citadel tower, visible from that same courtyard (and technically in it!) and had faithful Ansrithar beside her. As the sun rose over the horizon to impact her, she moistened her lips one last time, and took a good look around her - the winds lightly pecking at her through her armor. It felt normal to her, though she was used to the colds of the north - and that aspect bothered her.
Knowledge(arcana)1d20 + 5 ⇒ (17) + 5 = 22
She notes the storm in passing, but pays it no mind - for now, at least. She stays atop of her perch, until the cavalry is sounded for the time to leave. It's here that she mounts up, adjusts her gear one more time, and prepares to fly off, her lance set in the saddle - and her scimitar drawn, sun's light gleaming off the edge.
"Let's show them, Ansrithar. Let's show them why we were chosen, my brother."
On your leave, my sister.
"Fly, Ansrithar! Fly as high as your wings take you! Fly like none else can! Let the sun bathe us in her warmth! For Sarenrae!"
"Min may show respect to Tauthan's, but I won't stand for their gilded words in my presence. Besides encouragement doesn't help your kind, the pedestal you eternals have placed yourselves on has always made me wonder who is the worst evil among which we face. You insult others in your vain attempts to aggrandize your own self importance. But you will Understand this, it was not his choice we returned, it was mine, and if you da..."
Syl looks at the silver dragon quizzically. It brings surpise to her, and she turns to face her fully, giving her the respect she would give any other noble creature, or at least one capable of shredding her apart. The moment she felt threatened, there was a spark that surged through her, and Ansrithar responded. The white dragon moved in a territorial fashion behind Syl, and haunched its head over her shoulder, staring Lin in the eyes before she decided to turn away, most likely due to some interference.
"Next time you wish to address a small jest, do so with less arrogance, for I will not tolerate it. Come, milady - we need to get your armor, and contribute to the safety of these people, before they are washed away by the tides of pride."
Syl frowned lightly, and for once yielded to her companion, allowing him to have the final say. She did however, bow to them both, and proceeded to exit the courtyard with Ansrithar in tow, so they may prepare to leave the next morning - but not before listening to Dolo's words. Something to think about.
In the hallways:
It's wrong. She and that Arandur fellow, they're haughty and childish. Do they even realize what they're saying as they speak? It boils my blood just to think about how certain she was.
Syl continues alongside her companion still, and lets her hand glide up and down his scales. She ponders his thoughts, and he knows she's hearing every bit, and acts as if talking to her. She smiles to those who pass, but it is a sad smile in reality - as if she regrets having to go through this agonizing display every time they meet someone.
"I don't know if they do. It's hard enough convincing people we're on their side, since you are an exception - do we really need our newfound allies judging us before we've even left the walls? Let us no longer respond to such words, dove - all it does is give them further reason to dislike our company, as beneficial as it is."
She arrives at her room shortly, and actually begins packing - but not before she finishes redressing into something more comfortable, more every-day than formal. Only then does Ansrithar curl up in the room, and make fun of Syl while she packs - comparing her to someone's servant, and other such jokes. Anyone who may end up outside the door can hear laughter within.
He made the Top 32 for RPG SuperStar. Congratulations, my friend! I would have entered but college demands too much of me.
As for depth, you really have no idea where this rabbit hole goes - where you're in the nitty-gritty, we're the polar opposite. Think not of competition, but two different sides of the same coin - we both have our uses...
Syl smiles, and looks to Min as he returns, and nods her head in greeting - showing he had the wisdom to at least return, but lacked the motivation to follow through with his actions - though brings her hand to her lips.
"I'm glad you decided to rejoin us. Next time, try to motivate the rest of the group to your inflamed passions before moving out like that. You might get yourself killed, and we really don't want that, do we?"
Here she moves to address the captain again, and clears her throat.
"I would like to ask for a blessing of you and your city on our leaving. That is what I want to provision specifically - the rest, I will leave up to you! Think of it as surprising us with a present!"
She winks, playfully, and leaves them to their devices. It's here she tends further to Ansrithar, and heals him of his remaining injuries.
Lay on Hands x3, likely to heal to full.3d6 ⇒ (5, 3, 2) = 10
The immediate response to Min's overzealous hop-and-takeoff is placing her palm to her face, and shaking her head. She looks to her page after, and nods to him.
"Gather my things, my dear. I'll have to dress out here, since time is of the essence. In the meantime..."
She turned back to the Captain, and nods with her smile back on her face. She approaches him, and gracefully places her hand to his shoulder.
"I understand all too well how hasty you can be, and that is why I spoke out of turn. I need a favor from you in turn, though what it is shall be a secret for now. I will leave shortly, and would ask you only for some provisions - I have to chase down a silver dragon, but that's no problem for my Ansrithar."
Here she walks back over to her companion, but does wait for an answer from the Captain before she begins to rig his saddle and all his other gear.
Syl recalls Belsarious' outburst in time, and notes the direction and the manner in which he speaks. She listens carefully, and then takes in the surroundings to perceive this threat.
Syl smiles and nods her head in respect to Dolo, and replies in kind, her voice bold yet subtle, almost like a summer breeze as she speaks in her native tongue.
"Amacc saan, tymeoalalaem. Illa E aey, el ilcc amilala."
Elven:
Well met, professor. As I you, in all ways.
"You misconstrue my meaning, professor, when you say to strike at the cause - you repeat the Captain's words in meaning, but in different manners. I understand that sitting here, sipping tea whilst they continue to search is not productive. I do not suggest this action either. What I do suggest is to ensure our path is true, and that we are all of the same conviction to see the task through. I want nothing more than this world to see better days.
"The world around us accounts for all things we do, through the gods or the powers of the forests and ourselves, and keeps it in balance - should we destroy these artefacts, invariably another evil will rise in its place. Do you trade one tyrant for another, Professor? If we are to truly remove such a thing, then, as much as I dislike admitting to this, we may have to sacrifice something in turn. In that I ask, are you prepared to deal with the consequences?"
Here she pauses, and walks back over to the group, and smiles, taking one last drink before placing it down. She adjusts her hair, and clears her throat.
"If you are, we have no further things to discuss at this time. I will ride with on that note, and ensure that our faith in this, and each other, stays strong - for our road will be full of hardships. We will talk further when the time is right."
Here she will wait, to see if anyone else wishes a response - for she does love a good conversation...
Syl had arrived to the feast on time - after her return and a bath - and her attire was more than appropriate for the occasion. She had, however, left her sash on the statue of the Dawnflower herself. Unlike some of them, who came in full battle-garb, she had arrived in a white gown that gave great clues of her northern heritage. It had a bit of fur around the hems, and was inlaid with intricate design, for she had no clue to the real purpose of the feast - only that it sounded formal. Ansrithar still slept in the courtyard, tending to nurse his wounds further (54/60) upon waking.
Unfortunately for her, on arrival, she frowned lightly, but sat herself down amongst her companions-in-arms, and was very, very polite and particular in what and how she ate, as if showing a noble upbringing. As the captain speaks, she keeps her eyes closed, and opens them to look at him after this speech. She clears her throat, and speaks.
"What you speak of is action before inaction. This can be a good thing, in the right situation, Captain, but you must understand how patience in the world works. Should we then, cut off a man's hands as punishment because he said he would steal for his family? Shall we hang him, for he said whilst drunk he would kill any man who went for his wife? What you speak of is utter destruction of artifacts, for the sole purpose of removing them from this world. It may benefit everyone in turn, but it may ultimately cost us greatly in different areas of our lives. If we were to, say go chasing off to the far east, this city or its neighbors may fall in the process, thousands of lives snuffed out because we were out searching for these evil items.
"Now do not mark me wrong before I finish my point. I whole-heartedly agree that evil should be removed from this world, but not before it is given mercy - for we would wish the chance ourselves, were it given to us. I'm willing to go, but I wish to leave for the right reasons, not because you wish to strike a preemptive blow. I seek no rewards that you or any other mortal on this plane can offer me, so I must feel that I have done the right thing. Do you understand me now? There must be no other option."
"As always, I agree with my companion. Sylsalitae is my answer, for better or worse. If anything is to be said of her question, we wish to know that this is the only path available - I don't need to waste time flying down the countryside when I can be furthering a better cause."
She smiles faintly after, but visibly frowns at her dragon - and listens to the others as they have replied, and notes the rush to the other end of the courtyard. Though armorless, she will stand softly, and sigh, moving to her dragon's side.
"We need to get me back into my armor if we're to depart anytime soon. Come, we will leave unless we are to be addressed."
Syl calmly reassesses her situation, and takes a good, long walk in the place - but doesn't really get too far. She's too busy observing to really gather anything useful beyond how disturbed she is by this scene. She seems hesitant to even walk into the room designated to Sarenrae.
She musters up her mental courage, and puts her faith before her. As she moves towards the pedestal, she does as she had done earlier, but seeks to do something far more influential. She undoes her sash, the one sacred to her faith, and coils it about the statue's waist, tying it firmly to keep it snug. She smiles at her handiwork again, and then goes to pray on her knees, eyes closing.
Oh goddess. The amount of 'law' here is almost suffocating. I cannot wait to leave this city, which favors men over women. I must do something eventually to help these poor souls out - they know not of the evils they do in this discrimination. Beyond that, I ask you to have mercy on the souls I forced into submission before our might. I want them to have a second chance in life, as most would pray for themselves.
I also wish to pray for the one named Arandur - I wish his wisdom to seek beyond his arrogance, so it will not cost him one day. I want my blessings and yours to help in this task, and so in this I pray. May the Sun always shine great, oh Dawnmother.
Syl continues to give the boy kind smiles and a warm aura, keeping most to herself. She looks around at all the marvelous architecture, and notes how clean the town is for something so driven into war. It's very contrasting, and it actually, visibly, bothers her when she realizes that it makes little sense to her.
She notes the large cathedral, and as he points it out, she kneels beside him and winks lightly.
"I'm from a far, northern place that I cannot tell you of, little one. However, what I can tell you is that not all of us are so generous and honest; some of us cling to traditions like your people here worship Iomedae, and I mean that in no offense at all.
"I'm mostly dressed like this now because of the days to come, and because there's so much still to do to preserve your home here. I fight on not only their behalf, but yours and my own people's too - do you realize that if this town were to fall, others would follow in its wake? It is my sworn duty as a knight of the good virtues we know to stand in its way, and further the cause of the Dawnmother herself while I'm at it.
"I hope that answers you well, Isaac? You've been a dear, and I need you to do something for me now. I need to know where my room is, and I need it prepared for a bath before dinner. Can you do this for me? I shouldn't be more than half an hour here."
She smiles to him again, pats him on the head, and carries herself to the cathedral, and brings with her a prayer forming in her mind.
She smiles at the boy, and gives him a wink - then offers her hand.
"Why don't you do me a favor and escort me across the town? I'd love to see this Hall of Light - I'd particularly enjoy that.
"And Ansrithar! Get some rest! We'll probably be leaving tonight or in the morning, depending on circumstance - you have a long day ahead of you, as do we all!"
The white dragon grumbles and begins to get some sleep.
Min, sadly, it's a statue of Iomedae in one of her kinder forms that I kneeled at - substitute for Sarenrae in some forms, if you ask me!
Syl kindly accepts the clerical aid, allowing the priests to work their magic on mending Ansrithar. She oversees the whole ordeal, and ensures that they don't go touching him anywhere he didn't approve of.
3d8 + 6 ⇒ (1, 7, 3) + 6 = 17
After this, she smiles, and listens intently to this Captain's speech, and nods firmly - there was no need to speak up, other than to maybe suggest something - and then, notes the page who approaches her. She kneels down to his height, and if his head is free of obstruction, will ruffle it up with her hand.
"And what have your parents blessed you with for a name, dear? If possible, I'll need you to find me some kind of shrine to Sarenrae in this town, else I'll have to make do with something else. Any suggestions?"
She gently clasps his hand before she departs back, and decides to stay and be kind - since that's what she'd do anyway! She holds it very softly, almost as if her hand were fragile and needed great care.
"Then I am Sylsalitae of House Dwinghymnaear, and I'm from the far northern reaches - and blessed by Sarenrae herself! Do not fret, Sir Damian, for Ansrithar over there, who seems a bit tired and as wounded as you, has been with me for a very, very long time - and he ensures I stay alive as long as he does.
"As for your death, I would not have said it was a bad one, if you had to go! You would have fallen defending the city of your goddess! And against an elder red no less! Why, that's something to be praised! But alas, you did survive, which further shows your prowess - and lets us know fate has something else in store for you."
She points over to Ansrithar a moment. "Now, he's probably trying to sleep now, but you're more than welcome to greet yourself, should you wish to - I'll be beside him until Na-Calanon calls us to a meeting, or supper, or what have you. I'll also be tending to the wounded as best as I can here, though I fear I may not have enough for everyone. It was a pleasure to have met you, Sir Damian Lamorak!" And with that, she bows gracefully, and departs his company for the time being.
Syl overhears the question by chance, or by fate? and responds quickly, moving with subtle grace in every fluid step. She adjusts her circlet, and straightens her hair after so much flying. She clears her throat beside the man, and lifts her hands.
"If you'll hold still, I may see what the Dawnmother has in store for you today!" she exclaims, a smile on her face.
Lay on Hands, targeting Damian.1d6 ⇒ 6
"There! All better now! Thanks be to Sarenrae! I apologize if it's not enough, but it's what I can spare for the time being, sir knight."
She closes her eyes and smiles again, then cheerfully moves back over to Ansrithar without a moment's notice - it's almost as if she came over just to see to his need, and leave once it had been fulfilled - partially or otherwise.
Syl cheers as she watches the display, and finds herself stopping, and allowing Ansrithar to hover for a moment, looking back to the other one who had joined her. She smiles, and gives a gesture in the form of waving, and turns around.
She was to speak at the small one, but she feels no need to go further. In fact, all she feels right now is to relax, and she knows her best friend feels the same way, as she caresses his scales soothingly.
"Come, Ansrithar. Let us go perch, while they sort it all out - we've helped the people of this town today, and feel no need for reward. That's our goal, remember?"
I understand - but I will always long for a hoard.
"Then I will make you one in due time. Come now! Let us await their decisions, whatever they be!"
It is then that the large white dragon moves to lay down in the courtyard, and Syl will begin dismounting - but not before doing what she can to heal his injuries.
"For the record, great one, you owe me nothing. Nothing at all," she speaks, as she tends to the wounds of Ansrithar.
With her lance engraved deep in the dragon, she yanks it free, mentally asking Ansrithar to aid in shoving the corpse away - and then she turns to new business at hand.
She looks to the men who have surrendered, and nods firmly. Ansrithar gloats mightily, and sneers.
"You men, report to our forces inside, and tell them you have surrendered into custody. I will see to it you are given a second chance at life!"
She smiles as she speaks, and sets the lance in the holster, looking around quickly - and recalling what had happened earlier, not even believing it would be over so fast. Ansrithar calmly nods at her.
"Come now. We must aid our brethren in the sky - they fight something strong, so my nose tells me. Let's away!"
Now she holds on tightly, and resets the lance, a look of exhaustion on her face - she does wave at the summoned creature, and winks as she's taken back into the air, heading west.
Syl carefully glies down, allowing herself the time to build momentum, the time to focus, and concentrate on the task at hand. He was an immediate threat to the people below, and that called to her heart, to her duty, and when she saw the moment, she took vengeance for the fallen.
She allowed Ansrithar to take his time as well - and when he found the weakness within that creature, he struck hard, and fast! He dived right in and let loose with his jaws, aiming to rip apart the wing to disable flight. Meanwhile, Syl had her own plans.
She gripped that lance firmly, and aimed it true and steady - here she'd lean into the charge, and allow herself to carry into the charge, lance slammed forward in an attempt to gut the poor thing - and she'd twist afterwards, once connected, pushing in to try and end this conflict, now
"Soldiers! I offer you one chance, and one chance only! Repent for your evil crimes, and you shall be granted mercy by the grace of Sarenrae! Surrender your arms, and I shall guide you back from darkness!"
