Valsavis's page

I don't see the daggers on the loot list, but Valsavis would take two for himself as reliable back ups to his bard's friends.

Upon seeing the iron daggers on the bodies of the raiders, Rata scoops up a pair of them and stuffs them into his wide belt. "In case mine break," he says.

Glancing over Barega's shoulder in passing, Valsavis froze mid-stride, his blood turning to ice in his veins. "That comb... It couldn't be... Mechanically, Valsavis bends down, ignoring the halfling's inquiry as he slowly takes up the bone comb lying in the sand. It was masterfully carved, a delicate celestial motif decorating it's surface. He rubbed a calloused thumb over the crescent moon that dominated the design. "This... was my sister's. Shrasa's." He clenched the comb in his fist, his eyes narrowing from from blank astonishment to fiery rage, "What did this bastard know about my sister!" emphasizing his frustration with a hard kick to the dead man's ribs.

Valsavis spins on the halfling, "You said two days - which direction? Tyr?"[/b]

The difficulty seemed fine. Unfortunately, Valsavis isn't much for battle tactics - other than flanking his foes - once the killing begins. As long as we're not dropping like flies, I'm happy. Athas is a brutal place as we all know.

Valsavis' persuit slowed as the realization dawned that he would never catch the fleeing raider. Chest heaving, he trotted back to the group to find they were already going through the remaining bodies. "At least we got most of them. A planned attack or just our bad luck?" he looked to the others, silently inquiring about their findings.

He sucked air through his clenched teeth as Barega invoked the spirits to close his wounds. After the pain subsided, he nodded his thanks. He busied himself with cleaning the gore off of his blades with cloth and sand while the others reported their findings. "Gather up what we can use, leave the rest. Let's move while we still have daylight to see by." He helped the others load the wagon and made a circuit around the battlefield, scanning for anything they may have missed before they set off.

Assit rolls
Perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (16) + 10 = 26
Survival: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16

He turned his gaze to the road ahead, scanning the horizon for a potential site to set up camp for the night.

Kn. Geo.: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (19) + 4 = 23

Valsavis' quarry dead, he finally turned his attention to how the rest of the party was faring. Seeing the fat man crash to the sands and be still, he barked a laugh, which turned into in a full-blown guffaw as Gbaji caved in the man's skull. He screamed a battle cry in approval, pumping his fist in the air. With the halfling well out of his range, the raider fleeing south caught his eye. "I guess that one's mine!" he bellowed as he sped off after the fleeing kank.

Running at 4x speed, which, unfortunately is only 80' for me. If I do manage to catch the raider fleeing south, Valsavis will attempt to circle around the kank and cut off his escape route.

Valsavis currently has his back to the fleeing defiler and halfing so only take into account the perception roll if someone draws his attention to the matter.

Perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24 Success

Valsavis grunts as the tenacious raider refuses to die. He redoubles his effort, taking a quick step to bring him into range with the bleeding thug before slashing both of his blades at the man's back, beads of sweat flying from his brow from the continued effort under the unforgiving sun.

mwk obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11
damage: 1d4 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7
obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20
damage: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

His offhand blade connects once again, causing even more blood to soak the raider's black garb.

Free demoralize (Raider 1 is just within range): 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (7) + 18 = 25

If someone does point out the fleeing raiders to Valsavis he turns to them and yells across the broad sands, his voice tinged with the ecstasy of his bloodlust, "Hey, didn't you attack us? Get back here and die like the others!"

No point in trying to flank if Lalali keep 5' stepping away before my turn (I don't blame you, I would do the same.) 5' step to S8 and full attack.

Finding himself momentarily unthreatened, the telepath woman's cries for help finally registered to Valsavis. He wasted no time in circling around the man assailing her and when an opening presented itself, he plunged his blade into the man's soft exposed midsection.

mwk obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (10) + 13 = 23
damage: 1d4 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6 + Sneak attack: 2d6 ⇒ (4, 5) = 9 15 damage

The man went rigid and slid off of the bard's friend, tumbling to the sands to bleed out, a dark pool swiftly spreading from his grievous wound. Wiping the gore off of his blade onto his leggings, Valsavis grinned at Lalali, "Sorry I couldnt've seen to him earlier, I was busy." He spun on the last remaining raider and gave him a hard look, his eyes as cold and still as death itself.

Free demoralize: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (13) + 18 = 31

Move to R7, kill the raider threatening Lalali at S7, demoralize the raider at Q13.

Just a reminder, from tonight I'll be out of contact until next Sunday.

Gbaji posted this on the 10th so I'm assuming he'll be back with us tomorrow.

Valsavis gasped when the oxygen was ripped from his lungs as the ball of flame burst behind them. He ducked, instinctively shielding his face and neck as the flames rolled over his body. Singed, he rose to meet their attackers just as one of the raiders slashed his blade across his shoulder. Blood trickled down his arm as the sting from the wound fueled his rage, he gave the man a hard look as he took a step to the north to flank his enemy. Leaping, he reversed his grip on his knives and brought them both down in a double over hand chop...

mwk obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (17) + 11 = 28
damage: 1d4 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6 + Sneak attack: 2d6 ⇒ (5, 1) = 6 12 damage
obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 10 = 16
damage: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4 + Sneak attack: 2d6 ⇒ (6, 2) = 8 12 damage

Slamming them deeply into the raider's exposed thigh, one blade finding a particularly vulnerable spot. The masked assailant's blood glazed the kank's carapace.

Free demoralize attempt if target brought below 0 HPs: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (19) + 18 = 37

Hard to post results with no AC for the raiders. I'm assuming the 16 didn't hit and have posted under that assumption.

1

Valsavis squinted through the haze at their path forward, and his eyes went wide as the swirling sands parted to reveal mounted assailants, heading their way with haste and purpose.

Valsavis waited until their attackers were in range before bellowing a cry of fury hoping to dampen their will to fight before the raiders were upon the them. Retreating, he drew his blades and waved to the others to take cover behind the wagon.

Demoralize: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (11) + 14 = 25

1

Valsavis paused in thought as the transforming cannibal gave his report, "Do we know of any landmarks or villages in the direction they're heading? A hidden outpost, perhaps?" He thinks for a moment.

Kn. Geography: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12

Since Valsavis just traveled this route when he was summoned to Urik, I'll assume it's still fresh in his mind.

"Maybe they're planning on skirting the southern edge of the Dragon's Bowl to head north to Raam or catch the Nibenese Road south to Nibenay? I don't really care either way, just as long as they're off of our trail." He said with a flat tone.

He agreed with Ala'a's suggestion that they should head due west into the dunes. After securing his gear, he trotted after her, quickening his pace to match her long strides.

2

Valsavis' stomach dropped as he noticed the dark mass looming on the horizon, "Aye, a sandstorm. We used to have them in Salt View during the dry months of High Sun. The storms raging from the Meres were especially wicked, known to rend the flesh from a man's bones if they were unlucky enough to be caught out in the open. Whatever our plan, be sure to cover up any exposed flesh." He said as he began wrapping himself in whatever loose cloth he could find. He jogged over to help Gbaji turn over the cart, and began securing down whatever loose gear he could manage in the time they had before the storm arrived.

Yeah, I'm just getting back into the swing of things and I don't think I'll have the time to catch up and get a well-informed post up this round. You'd be better off botting Valsavis and I'll get back into things on the next go-round. I'd be happy to write up some sort of story, but Valsavis certainly wouldn't be the one to break the ice, it's just not in his character.

Valsavis looked over his wounds, silently thankful for the healing both Ala'a and Barega had provided. Nodding along with Gbaji, "Yes, hopefully the loss of water won't impede our progress. Let us gather our things and get moving, we still have a templar and his goons on our trail. I think we'd all agree that we should make as much progress as possible before setting up camp for the night." He made to right the wagon and assisted the others with properly stowing away Korgunard, ensuring as much comfort as possible was provided to the glowing man-turned-diety. That being done he checked his weapons and scrubbed sand across whatever wounds he had left that were still open, grimacing. Finally, he turned his eyes to the road ahead, eager to make use of their good fortune.

Taking the opportunity to reiterate that I am having LASIK surgery on Wednesday and, depending on the recovery time, I may be absent from the boards for a day or two until my eyes are healed.

Valsavis screamed through the melee, coming to the realization that this was most likely the end. He dodged and slashed when the kreen Gbaji had kicked crashed into the wagon and, along with much of their cargo, the old preserver spilled to the sand. With a growl he turned his attention back to the slaughter and was baffled to find their insectoid attackers stood still as stone, and an eerie, almost tranquil, silence descended upon the field of battle. His blank visage was a blend of amazement and confusion as the kreen seemed to have adopted a reverent air about them. He watched in stunned silence as the pack bowed to the companions and then retreated into the wastes.

He turned to the others, "Interrupted or no, the ceremony seemed to have done something to the man. I-" but he stopped there, unsure of what he was about to say. He merely stared, struggling to process their good fortune. He fished around two fingers in his mouth and pulled free a cracked tooth, flicking it to the ground and spitting a wad of dark blood after it. They would live another day, it seemed.

Of the unexpected return of their human telepath, he had no comment. He simply gave the woman a questioning look. Car crash?

I'll admit that my jaw dropped a bit when I saw the turn title, haha. I'm heading off to bed so I'll still delay posting until tomorrow, but I've got to say that you had me and that you're a $*#(@#*@%. :)

I've got my little monster all day today, so I won't be able to post until tomorrow afternoon. Feel free to bot Valsavis. 5' step to flank, full attack fighting defensively.

Valsavis' throat was raw from his battle cries when they struck, and struck hard. He shielded his eyes as Ala'a sprays fire from her outstretched hands and the halfling shapeshifter invokes the fury of the elements. He dodged and deflected the kreens claws and bites in a blur of defensive maneuvering, but there were just so many swarming them from every direction that a few attacks slipped through his defenses, and it wasn't long before his skin was slick with blood. "I will not die like this. Not to these chittering bastards!" He positioned himself as best he could, taking note of where his allies were in the chaotic melee and then struck out with his blades, directing his fury at whichever kreen looked to be the most injured.

mwk obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 9 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 9 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 14 Miss
damage: 1d4 + 5 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 5 + 1 = 9 + Sneak attack: 2d6 ⇒ (3, 2) = 5
obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 8 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 8 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 20
damage: 1d4 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 2 + 1 = 4 + Sneak attack: 2d6 ⇒ (1, 4) = 5 9 damage total

These attacks are assuming Valsavis is flanking, if that is not the case, ignore the SA damage and subtract 2 from the attack totals.

The first blow missed horribly as he had to change his course of attack at the last moment to dodge a swiping claw, but he quickly recovered and his off-hand attack struck home. Hot ichor pooled on the ground at the kreens feet, serving to fuel his intensity.

Free demoralize if target is slain: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (7) + 18 = 25

---

5' step in an attempt to flank with either Ala'a or Gbaji and full attack. The additional bonuses to my rolls are reflecting my current buffs. Obviously, I wrote the flavor text assuming Valsavis will take a few hits before it is his turn to act, so feel free to edit that if the kreens roll poorly.

Valsavis' pulse raced as the kreen finally arrived, leaping over them and joining the choatic melee. Brandishing his blades, he screamed at them, hoping to cow their bloodlust.

Demoralize: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (20) + 16 = 36
Excellent.

---

Valsavis will delay until the majority of the kreens have lept over the wagons and are visible, at which point he will use dazzling display (target is shaken for 2 rounds (bonus round from frightening included) plus 1 more for each 5 points the check result beats the DC.) If I beat the DC by 10 (making it 4+ rounds), can also frighten (house-ruled to dissuade effected creatures from attacking Valsavis instead of making them flee.) and take a 5' step to flank with whomever is available.

Your set up looks good, too bad it appears they’re likely to jump right over them and swarm us…

1

Valsavis paused as Ala’a’s magicks surge through his body. He pulled the strengthening fruit from his pack and downed it in a few swift bites, his muscles growing, causing his garb to strain at the seams (bull’s strength), ”S~~%, jumpers. Well, let’s hope they don’t have the presence of mind to leap over our barriers, otherwise we might find ourselves fighting off the entire swarm.” he says with a growl.

2

He took up his recurve bow and knocked an arrow, firing at the first jumping kreen at which he had a clear shot.

Mwk composite longbow: 1d20 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 7 + 1 = 26
Damage: 1d8 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6

He grinned as he heard the kreen's shrill scream when his arrow found a seam in it's carapace. He then quickly discarded his bow as the chittering insects closed the distance and pulled out his blades. Beckoning with his knives, he bellowed, ”Come on! Come dance with death!” he screamed in an almost fevered pitch.

Valsavis stood up from examining the scene, brushing the sand off his hands and wiping the sweat from his brow, "While I would like to get to Tyr as quickly as possible, If I were forced to choose, I would rather meet them on our own terms." He says, nodding to Ala'a. Waving a hand at Gbaji, Come, help me move these wagons. I believe we can create a choke point here." Valsavis begins digging the wagon out of the sand, and once Gbaji, and whomever else jumps in to help, is ready, he will attempt to lift the wagon onto it's side, creating some cover as well as a suitable defensible position.

All of your ideas sound good Barega, and I agree with your thoughts on what we should pilfer from the site. I really am enjoying reading the thought you're putting into your character's suggestions and actions. Your use of spells while we travel has been exceptional.

And enjoy your holiday Gbaji! I would've been vacationing in New Orleans with the family in a few weeks, but I chose to get LASIK instead. I guess this is as good a time as any to say that I'll probably be absent from the boards for a day or two in early April due to the recovery period.

1

Valsavis rose with the others, giving himself a stretch before relieving himself and going through the motions of his morning limbering routine.

2

He smiled along with Barega, happy to know that the elf's ruse had worked and that the group had one less threat to worry about, at least for the time being. "As much as we'd all enjoy it, we can't kill them all. It's unfortunate that they have quickened their pace. Let us concentrate on the road ahead - the road to Tyr."

3

As their wagon approached the scene, Valsavis jumped down, ensuring his cloak was open at the front, his blades within easy reach. He scanned the immediate environs, and, once no threats were discovered, turned his attention to the ground, looking for any tracks to tell them who did this, how long ago it happened, and how many attackers there were. He voices his discoveries to the others, "Some money here. Food and water too. Weapons and trade goods."

Valsavis isn't ignoring Barega, he is simply trying to help discern exactly what happened here. Rolling to assist.

Aid perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 10 = 12
Aid survival: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

Edit: Fabian, you posted while I was typing up mine, but I'll leave mine as is to give the others a chance to discuss the findings.

1

Squinting his eyes, Valsavis searches the half-giant's face, "My charm, eh? I think you may have taken one too many blows to the head." He laughs at this, surprised at how easily it came.

Valsavis took in Barega's words with great interest, "The rock refuses to yield to the waste, you say? I guess in our case, we are the rock, refusing to accept this shell of a world - this miserable existence we call 'living'." His words were draped in bitterness.

3

Valsavis' jaw clenched when Ala'a so nonchalantly referred to them as her servants, but he quickly calmed himself. Her plan is a sound one and possibly our only way out of this mess.

Valsavis quickly took up the role of servant, rummaging through the caravan to retrieve some of the more valuable weapons for Ala'a, but also to ensure Korgunard was still concealed, then began leading the wagon off the road to the west. He watched intently as Ala'a went with the crodlu rider and tensed as the small army of men poured out of the rolling fortress. His gaze focused particularly on the burly mul, and it was with great effort that he returned his gaze to the open stretch of desert in which they were headed.

---

Questions for the rest of the group...

Ala'a wrote in that she was sending the rest of us off the road to the west while she approached the Stel caravan, is that not the case? I think we would all prefer to go with that plan since the way you have it written would require us all to be bluffing to back up her story.

This is why I always leave the roll of party face to craftier minded people. Well done, as usual.

1

Valsavis watched with interest as the others went through their morning rituals. He simply relieved himself in the sand off to the side, before going through an elaborate routine of stretches taught to him by Xaynon. The half-elf claimed all the big-time fighters in Raam used the same routine, since a pull or strain in the middle of a match often meant death, or worse. Gnawing on a hunk of dried and salted flesh of an animal he couldn’t identify, Valsavis nodded his agreement with Gbaji. ”Aye, those fists of yours do some damage. Were you well known in Tyr’s pits?” He realized the stadium of Tyr was quite large and certainly not considered a ‘pit’, but this was an artefact of Xaynon’s teachings. They all fought in pits, no matter the size or grandeur.

After packing up his things he did what he could to cover up their tracks, before making to check on the old preserver as well. His ears perked up as Gbaji inquired about Barega’s abilities. Being curious about them as well, he listened in.

2

As soon as Barega transformed and broke the news, Valsavis realized that if they didn’t figure out a plan of action quickly, they would be surrounded and vastly outnumbered. With a sneer, ”Hamanu’s hunters behind and an entire caravan of House Stel ahead. I guess now would be the time to choose: would you prefer to be crushed and eaten, or skewered and enslaved?” Looking to Ala’a, ”Well, we’ve already proven we can take Hamanu’s men, but not while also dealing with Stel. Any ideas?”

3

As the outriders approached, Valsavis pulled his cloak tight and his cowl low. His hands grasp the hilts of his blades in a white-knuckled grip. He waited for Ala’a to take the lead, hoping their plan would work.

My run speed is 80', not 120'. That should still give me enough movement to catch up to the fleeing belgoi.

1

Valsavis grimaced as the belgois made their escape, "You think you can just leave after taunting me with thoughts of Shrasa!? I think not." The flaming branch in his left hand struggled to stay lit as he sprinted after them.

Valsavis can run up to four times his base movement (120' total) in a straight line and he is considered flat-footed (AC 18). He will try to position himself between the belgios and their desired path of retreat.

If I had any other affliction, I would agree with you, but whatever I've got is making everything register in slow motion. My brains feel like mush.

Hey guys I've been bedridden for the past 36 hours with a stomach thing so feel free to bot Valsavis as needed as I'm not sure when I'll be posting again.

Actually, AC is probably the weakest thing on an otherwise pretty tough opponent. Their AC=13 so your 15 hits.

Excellent, in that case allow me to amend my previous post.

Valsavis tripped over a dead root, stumbling slightly as he made his attack, but his blade still struck home, sinking deep with his full weight behind the blow. Valsavis couldn't believe his luck and let out a hearty laugh, flashing a wild-eyed smile at Ala'a as blood spilled over his knuckles and down his forearm, dripping to stain the sand.

A cold smile graced Valsavis' lips as the humanoids broke off from him to assail the others. His hunger for blood far from sated, he made his way around the belgoi attacking Ala'a, keeping just out of reach of it's debilitating claws. Crouching low, he approached from behind, stabbing his blade upwards into the cold blue flesh.

mwk obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (2) + 13 = 15
damage: 1d4 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8 + Sneak attack: 2d6 ⇒ (6, 3) = 9

I'm assuming a 15 fails to hit.

Valsavis tripped over a dead root, stumbling slightly as he made his attack, causing his blade to miss it's mark. Frustrated, the slayer cursed loudly.

Am I still under the effects of the bell during this round? I don't see any text indicating otherwise (other than your blurb about dropping the torch) or a roll for a Will save. I will post assuming that I made my save.

1

Valsavis walked slowly towards Shrasa's voice, humming along with the soft eerie tune. The others watched as he stepped closer to the waiting belgoi, but then his steps faltered. Shrasa... Singing? That's not possible. Shrasa is dead. I held her lifeless form... My tears soaked her blood-matted hair. She is not singing. This... This is a trap! Valsavis stopped walking altogether, seeming to shake himself awake. "Ungh... What-?" Spotting the humanoids closing in, he snapped to full awareness. "Attack! We're under attack!"

Holding the burning branch aloft, he quickly drew his obsidian blade, bellowing at his attackers. "You will die for what you've done!"

Demoralize: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (8) + 14 = 22

Demoralize DC = 10 + HD + Wis mod. Affected targets are shaken for 2 rounds plus 1 more for every 5 points the check result beats the DC. If I beat the DC by 10 or more, creatures are dissuaded from attacking Valsavis in addition to being shaken.

Shaken: –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks.

1

Valsavis was studying the grounds along the outskirts of their camp, checking for tracks when he froze. He quickly crouched low, scanning the darkness, swearing to himself that his mind was playing tricks on him. It couldn't be... But yet, despite trying to shake his head to clear his clouded thoughts, he did indeed hear it. Singing. More specifically, Shrasa's singing...

"She laughed, he cried,
As the blade fell,
Fear not for wrong or right,
Just hush, sweet prince,
Come hither now,
Embrace the dead of night..."

The fact that this was no song he could recall his sister ever singing failed to register with the enthralled slayer. All thoughts of safety for himself and the others fled his mind as he ambled over to the source of the enchanting lyrics. Shrasa, you're alive... he thought to himself, but the only audible sound that passed his lips was a low throaty moan of rapture.

1

Valsavis smirked as the kids clamored for first dibs on Gbaji's waterskin, but his face went cold when the woman back-handed the child. An image of Nikolos beating Shrasa for being short on the day's wages flashed in his mind. "There is wisdom in your words, but do not strike that child again." The man growled, tense like a jhakar ready to pounce.

Valsavis considered the man's words. Kreens... We never had any trouble with any roving packs of them when we traveled the Ivory Triangle. What do I know about thri-kreen...

Since I cannot make any untrained knowledge checks, would Valsavis know anything about the habits of thri-kreen from travelling around Salt View and the Ivory Triangle? Whether they are known to frequently raid caravans and attack travelers, how many numbers in a typical tribe, etc.

He watched silently as Ala'a handed over the large amount of water. "Yes, seek out Marek."

Bluff to aid Ala'a: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (16) + 0 = 16

2

Valsavis looked to Ala'a, but what she said made sense, so he gave her a silent nod and went to lay down in the hollow he had dug for himself.

That is a s-load of traffic, but if you're intent on hand-waving most of it for expediency's sake, that's cool. But if you want to spice things up by having us encounter all sorts of travelers and houses, that's fine too. I guess it mostly comes down to how quickly (in rl time) you want us to reach Tyr and progress the main narrative.

I'm a tad confused by the wording. You say the group easily overtook us, implying they're going in the same direction we are, but then they ask how far to Urik. I'm assuming they're travelling in the opposite direction, towards the city?

1

Heeding the wisdom of Barega's suggestion, Valsavis pulled himself from the shade of the wagon and took up the reins in the drivers seat for a time. He strained his eyes against the setting sun to see the blurred forms of travelers on the horizon.

"Yes, it looks like we're about to have company." Valsavis quickly fished around in his pack for his cloak, and re-donning it. (Cloak of resistance is back on) Pulling the cowl low to obscure his face, he addressed the woman in a gruff tone, "Urik is still about a half a days ride. You say you were attacked? By who?"

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (3) + 9 = 12

After her reply, he looked to Ala'a to gauge her reaction to their claim of attack and whether or not they were worth helping. Valsavis had experienced both great joy and crushing sorrow traveling the roads of the wastes, so he neither felt pity nor contempt for these struggling families.

2

Valsavis agreed with Barega's suggestion of a campsite. He gave it a once over, checking for any kind of sinkholes or natural hazards.

Perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (13) + 10 = 23
Survival: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

After his search he began setting up camp, unrolling his bedroll and setting up his mess kit over the fire. After that was done he helped Gbaji unload Korgunard, using whatever spare clothes or supplies from the wagon to make him as comfortable as possible.That done, he turned to the discussion of setting a watch. Looking to the half-giant, "I could use the break. Wake me after you're ready to bed down and I'll take the second shift."

"Yes, it grants me the ability to perform feats of strength beyond the realm of possibility of normal men."

2

To Barega, ”It is good that we are not being followed, although those elves were surely carrying a message pertaining to our movements. That ability to shift into a bird, I have never seen it’s like, but it will no doubt prove useful over the course of our travels. I agree that we should take turns resting inside the caravan. Magical healing doesn’t do much for our fatigue, unfortunately.” Valsavis voiced no complaint as Ala’a channeled her healing energies through his body. He was pleased to see all of his more grievous wounds as nothing more than faint white lines.

Almost having forgot about the preserver, Valsavis rushed to help Gbaji set him up to a more comfortable place in the bed of their wagon. He lingered over the older man, This is all because of you… Korgunard. You wanted to become a paragon of good and a catalyst for change for the good of Athas. But you were betrayed. We all were. I wonder what lies in wait for us in Tyr? After a long moment, Valsavis finally jumped down out of the wagon. He resumed his march, keeping his eyes on the road both ahead and behind. Glancing at the halfling, Valsavis silently counted the moments until Barega could take to the skies once more…

Valsavis' thoughts were cut short as Gbaji's meaty slap caused him to stumble a few steps. He immediately spun on the man, but the words finally registered and his angered retort died on his lips. "Yeah, thanks. You... You remind me of someone I used to train with in the pits at Salt View. He gave me this." Valsavis gestured to the finely made wide hide belt at his waist. "He was a good fighter." The words felt strange on his lips. He couldn't remember the last time he had spoken so easily with someone he had barely known. He looked at Gbaji's back a moment longer as he went to check on Korgunard, then once more turned his gaze to the road.

In the two hours that passed since we left, would we have any idea where the elves or halfling hunters might be? My initial idea was to ask Barega to take to the skies once more to scout their movements. Due to how much faster the elves can move I would assume we've lost them, but what about the hunters? Also, Valsavis would walk sentry along side the caravan, but obviously due to the extreme heat, he would switch off with whomever was riding at regular intervals to prevent heat exhaustion. Should we consider travelling at night?

1

Valsavis breathed a sigh of relief as they made it through the gates unmolested, but his relief didn't last long as he spotted the preserver once again, this time sending off a few elven runners. "There goes our friend again. No way these kanks can keep up with those runners, eh?" He asked Ala'a. "And more hunters, too. Great. Is there any way we can signal to Barega?" He looked up to the sky, shielding his eyes from the blinding sun, "If he could track those elves, or even the hunters, we'd have a better chance of reaching Tyr alive."

2

If we didn't manage to come up with a way to signal him earlier...

"We could've used you a few hours ago. Did you see where those elves ran off to? They were carrying a message from the preserver. Also, we're probably being tracked by more of your kind."

I don't think Valsavis would've made that mistake, given the circumstances, but if you want to roll with it, that's fine. It'll make things interesting at least. That's what I get for posting from my phone on the road.

You could almost hear the anger simmering behind Valsavis' eyes, but, no, this was not the time for violence. However blood-crazed he may be, he was not so far gone that he didn't realize fighting here almost certainly meant their deaths.

"Elves," he sneered, "About a week back, just south of here. Swiftwings or some such. She knew 'em." he thumbed a finger in Ala'a's direction. "They were viscous, we lost quite a few. Me and the boys tried to demand more money, but she's got a fire in her belly, that one." He attempted to portray a look of fear and respect as he considered Ala'a.

Bluff: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (15) + 0 = 15

He realized his performance probably had Shrasa turning in her grave.

1

Valsavis silently donned the clothes, ensuring they covered the crimson stains marring his current garb. He cut out the pockets of the rough linen shirt, ensuring that the handles of his blades were within easy reach. He likewise tied his greasy hair up with a leather thong and stuffed it up under his helm. He left Xaynon's bow in the wagon, although he kept his quiver of arrows. He hooked the stone hand axe to his belt and slung the shortbow over his shoulder, although he had no intentions of using either. (I'm working off of the assumption that caravan guards don't typically wield bard's friends and intricately carved bone composite longbows...)

Disguise if you require: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (1) + 0 = 1 Hopefully, someone else notices how terrible my disguise is...

2

Valsavis' eyes narrowed as he spotted the elven mage creeping through the crowd. He looked to the others, ensuring that they had spotted him as well. He did his best to track the elf as he disappeared into the seething mass of unwashed bodies.

Perception to track wizard: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (5) + 10 = 15

Valsavis stared blankly at the head of the kid who he had threatened multiple times. Damn, they got the kid... That means they know everything. He was brought out of his dark thoughts as they arrived at the gate and the templar approached their wagon. He tensed, but tried to appear nonchalant. He kept his ears keenly attuned to their exchange, but let his eyes wander, trying his best to play the part of the bored and underpaid caravan guard. When the yellow cloak wasn't looking his way, he took the time to study the man, in case their ruse was unsuccessful and battle broke out. Studied target against the templar.

Bluff if you require: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (9) + 0 = 9

2

"What do you know about this elf anyway? Can he be trusted? How did the templars know where we were?"

Valsavis nodded along as the half-giant voiced his thoughts. ”I too am wary about the others present during the ceremony. Eliantha and the arcanist who got away - what was his name? - can they be trusted? Can you, for that matter?"

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (8) + 9 = 17 To assist Ala'a's roll.

"I guess we have no choice in that, but surely you can see that someone has lead Hamanu straight to us. Someone wanted Korgunard’s plan to fail.” Valsavis looked over at the struggling man, his face a hard mask. He wasn’t making any move to settle down for the few hours they had to rest until these concerns were addressed.

---

"I don't look much like a trader. Maybe I can pretend to be a guard, maybe me and Valsavis?"

"I am fine with playing the part of the caravan guard, if that is what the group decides. For now, let us rest in the few short hours we have before dawn."

He looked around at the bloodied group, "better find change of clothes, at least. ha!"

Valsavis looked up at Abbin once more, "Any chance of securing us a change of clothes - something a merchant might wear?"

1

Valsavis spoke up, ”Maybe the mage hid his tracks with magic? Either way, this seems to be our only path forward, so let us be on with it.” He surveyed the area, ensuring that none of the blood from his clothes had left a trail, before climbing into the hidden chamber above. He silently hoped that one of the others would mask their footprints, much like the fleeing preserver seemed to have done.

2

Valsavis grunted as he recognized the dwarf, ”How long will these arrangements take? Hamanu’s men are still patrolling the halls below. As far as Korgunard is concerned… It’s not looking good.” For the first time you could recall, a bit of humanity shone through Valsavis’ churlish demeanor. He seemed genuinely concerned for the man who had brought them all here. He looked to the others to provide whatever information they had learned from examining the struggling man’s body.

I think that since we're all in 'get out of dodge' mode, it makes sense for the discussions to be strictly business. I would expect that to change when we're not all fleeing for our lives.

Sorry for the delay guys, super busy weekend and now we’re dealing with the aftermath of a full on ice storm.

After Barega is done searching the bodies, Valsavis speaks up, ”If you managed to find any of those healing fruits, I could use a couple.”

Laying claim to two CMW fruit, 1 CLW fruit, and a Bull’s Strength fruit if no one objects. Fabian if you wouldn’t mind adding those to my stats sheet, I would appreciate it.

As the offer of meat, Valsavis gave him a stern look but said nothing. It would take much more than that to shake the desensitized slayer. He nodded along with the others line of thinking, ”Yes, I agree. West seems to be our best bet.”

His clothes already stained with blood, he wiped some of the gore from his blades onto his pant leg. Nothing to be done about it now, but that is something I will need to address once we escape Urik... Making himself useful, he helped Gbaji and the others bring down and secure Korgunard. As Ala’a started off, he followed closely behind, blades drawn, doing his best to remain unseen and unheard.

Stealth: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18
Perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (11) + 10 = 21

Valsavis laughed as the hunters ran away in terror, but quickly realized one still remained below. With a yell, he dropped down to the dusty passageway...

Acrobatics to jump down: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

...And landed easily on his feet. Using the momentum from his jump, he immediately folded into a roll to bypass the hunter...

Acrobatics to tumble: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27 Even after looking at the skill description, I couldn't figure out what the DC of this check would be. Hopefully that nat 20 made it, though!

...And managed to avoid the halfling's slashing attack. He came up to his knees and quickly spun to face the hunter's back. He slashed his father's blade across the fleshy mid-section...

mwk obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (8) + 13 = 21
damage: 1d4 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7 + Sneak attack: 2d6 ⇒ (2, 1) = 3 10 damage total

...And grinned as the attack struck home.

My apologies. I will make a note in my Dark Sun doc reminding me to use the past tense. Here is an updated version of my actions this round.

Valsavis was momentarily taken aback as the lion leapt up so voraciously. He quickly recovered, though, and dove in with his blades, hoping their flurry of attacks was enough to bring down the beast before it could cause more havoc in their close quarters.

Both attacks hit, doing 9 damage each (18 total).

Valsavis made a gutteral sound, much like the lion's low growl, as both of his blades sunk deep into the beast's flank. He ripped his blades out, paying close attention to see if his two strikes were enough to silence the beast for good.

If so...
Demoralize: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (9) + 18 = 27

If successful, the effected targets are shaken for two rounds. This duration increases by 1 round for every 5 by which I beat the DC. If four or more rounds (meaning I beat the DC by 10 or more), I can choose to frighten them for one round instead, which I will do.

A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. A frightened creature flees from the source of its fear as best it can. If unable to flee, it may fight. A frightened creature takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. A frightened creature can use special abilities, including spells, to flee; indeed, the creature must use such means if they are the only way to escape.

Yep, it is a lot of work, I sometimes get frustrated when my RL players can't even remember to spend their skill points or bring their character sheet while I spend a ludicrous amount of time prepping for our game. All other points made are relevant and noted. The lion is in the process of climbing, so that makes sense that it wouldn't threaten. And thank you for allowing me my blades. I currently play in four games on the boards and GM our face to face game and that is more than enough to keep my plate quite full.

Valsavis is momentarily taken aback as the lion leaps up so voraciously. He quickly recovers, though, and dives in with his blades, hoping their flurry of attacks is enough to bring down the beast before it can cause more havoc in their close quarters.

I’m assuming, given the makeup of the room that we aren’t flanking the lion? If so, add +2 to my attack roll and +2d6 sneak attack damage for each. And remember, if I do enough damage to kill the creature, I get a free demoralize check at +18 to all enemies that witnessed the act within 30'.

mwk obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23
damage: 1d4 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9
obsidian bard’s friend: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
damage: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3
Offhand crit?: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14
damage: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

Just a couple notes to start.  First off, it is posts like this one that make the narrative a bit disjointed.  In the most recent post you list Valsavis and Barega reacting to the noise of the cannibals and then go on to copy and paste Gabaji's post which says 'it was the elf girl, Ala'a, and Barega who heard them first...' Secondly, while I did originally post that Valsavis drew his knives, I immediately modified that to say that I wanted him to have his bow readied.  You posted that he has his blades out so I'm not sure if that was a mistake or if you were doing me a favor and letting me have my blades drawn due to the actions of the lion.  If you really want this to become the epic story that we all want it to be, you need to spend a few moments combing through the posts and doing these little edits so that the overall narrative makes a bit more sense.  Hopefully that is not too much to ask! 

Finally, in the current situation I am assuming the lion is within melee range of all of us, so if we do fire a ranged weapon we will be subject to an AoO, correct?  If that is the case, Gbaji you might want to modify you intended actions.  I'll wait to post until we get some clarity on the current situation.

If the group decides to do battle, since Ala'a will act first, I think I'd rather keep this a ranged battle for as long as possible, so Valsavis will ready his bow instead. If/When it turns to melee he will drop his bow and draw his knives and leap below with the others.

Valsavis heeded the halflings signal and remained silent. Seeing the others preparing themselves for battle, he slowly drew his blades, nodding to Ala'a as she mimicked her intended actions. He looked to the woman and the half-giant, making sure they were aware of the situation.

2

It was a long while before the rush of battle faded and Valsavis could think clearly. Most of his time was spent trying to ensure he didn’t take an elbow to the eye from the hulking half-giant, or trip over the scuttling cannibal. He laid a hand upon the smooth clay of the walls, it’s coolness helping to douse his bloodlust.

He tensed as the first sets of footprints passed below them, silently pulling his blades from their sheathes, but hesitantly re-sheathed them as the steps faded away.

3

He looked over the old preserver, watching him struggle between restless sleep and trembling as his body tried to fight off whatever the broken ceremony had done to his broken form. As time slowly ticked by, he raised the question ”Has it been long enough to make our escape? Does anyone have a plan for getting out of Potter’s-”

Just then he heard the high-pitched voices streaming out from below, speaking excitedly in a foreign language. The hairs on the back of his neck stood up as the low growl echoed off the hard-packed walls. Whispering, ”Can anyone understand what they’re saying?” He looked to Barega expectantly.

Stealth: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24

I'm pretty happy with how things have been going so far, it does seem at times that we are interacting with the GM as opposed to each other, but a few of us (Ala'a and myself for sure) have had some great back and forth in-between updates. It seems that if you post it, others will probably react. And 4 rounds of combat in 48 hours must be some kind of record on these boards. That was impressive!

As for the cloak and the macuahuitl, I have zero experience designing magical items so I'll go along with whatever the group suggests. Concerning the cloak, I like Lalali's suggestion, a bonus to resistances and maybe a social skill or stealth... or intimidate. :) If no one uses the weapon (and I don't think anyone will unless they want it as a secondary weapon or for bypassing DR), I say we just give it a flat +2 bonus and sell it.

---

Before leaving...

This just keeps getting better... "Tyr!? I am certain House Shom still maintains a presence in Tyr and if they recognize me, I have no doubt they'd try to kill or enslave me, liberated or not... If we must go to Tyr, I recommend good disguises or we operate under the cover of darkness." I'm finally going back...

In the tunnel...

As soon as the greatclub pierces the illusory ceiling, "Here. The secret passageway is here. I say we heed Eliantha's words and follow it. We have no knowledge of why the elven preserver went on ahead, and it is no concern of ours."