-Universal Roller here: ID: dj4e ; PW: dragon (Everyone will be using this for all rolls, including myself)
-I will keep a status post of HP, Powers used, Action Points, and Healing surges. Additionally any items or effects that come up.
Combat:
-I will roll your Intiative in combat.
-If there is more than one monster I lump them all together, use their best intiative and use Team Monster.
-I draw all my own maps
-Feel free to post default tactics for a fight, but I am allowing everyone to act on their turn (please check in and post promptly or I will act for you in your turn (default action) after 1 day of inactivity).
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Shadowsong Deva Shaman/Spirit Tempest 16
Hit Points....102.....Bloodied...50
Healing Surge..26.....Surges/day..9
Initiative....+14.....Speed.......7
Passive Perception: +32
Passive Insight: +24
Action Points: 1
AC....Fort....Ref.....Will
30.....26......28......30
Resist 13: Necrotic and Radiant
+1 to all defenses vs Bloodied Foes
Attacks:
Implement Attacks ... +20 vs ???; Dmg: (see Power)+6Wis +4Totem
(+14 +magic (4)+2 Feat) for Dice + (6+magic)
+4d6 on a crit +4d10 if target is bloodied
+3 dmg vs bloodied targets (Totem)
+2 Atk if taken Necrotic or Radiant attack (Feat)
Combat Advantage on any Spirit Keyword Attack (+2 atk)
At-Will Powers:
Stalker's Strike Spirit vR
Haunting Spirits vW
Call Spirit Companion Free
Spirit's Fangs Spirit - Opportunity Action vF
Encounter Powers:
Call to the Savage Elder (E3) Spirit vR
Call to the Blood Dancer (E7) Spirit vW
Spirit Tide (ST E11) Spirit vW
Howling Gust (E13) vR
Spirit Flow (ST U12) Minor
Memory of a Thousand Lifetimes (Racial) No Action
Speak with Spirits (Class) Minor
Healing Spirit (Class) 3x per encounter Minor
Daily Powers:
War Chieftain's Blessing (D5) vW
Raging Storm Spirit (D9) Zone vR
Searing Wind of the South (D15) vF
Spirit of Life (U2)
Spirit of Dawn (U6) Zone Minor
Spirits of Shadowed Moon (U10) Zone Minor
Forge the Chains of Life (U16) II - Failed Death Saving Throw
Ability Scores
Ability....Check......Ability....Check
Scores....Modifier....Scores....Modifier
STR 11....+08.........CON 15....+10
DEX 14....+10.........INT 20....+13
WIS 22....+14.........CHA 11....+09StatsS 11= 10 +1
C 15= 14 5pts +1
D 14= 13 3pts +1
I 20=14 5 pts +2 +4
W 22= 16 9pts +2 +4
C 09= 08 +1
Show
A strikery leader for your approval
.Salrantol Vakt, Half-Elf Bard/War ChanterSalrantol Vakt
Half-Elf Bard/War Chanter
Hit Points: 109 [+89 Class + 20 Con] Bloodied: 54
Healing Surge: 29 [27 Base +2 Item] Surges/day: 12 [+7 Class +5 Con]
Initiative: +10 [+8 Level +2 Dex] Speed: 6 [6 Race -0 Armor]
Alignment: Good Patron Deity: Milil
Action Points: 1
AC: 33 [10 +8 Level +10 Armor +3 Enh +1 Shield +1 Feat]
Fort: 27 [10 +8 Level +5 Con +4 Enh]
Ref: 26 [10 +8 Level +2 Dex +1 Class +4 Enh +1 Shield]
Will: 29 [10 +8 Level +6 Cha +1 Class +4 Enh]
Attacks:
Melee Basic/Weapon Powers: Rapier + 23 (1d8+12) +4d10 critical [+8 Level +6 Cha +3 Prof +4 Enh +2 Feat][Damage: +6 Cha +4 Enh +2 Feat]
Implement Powers: Rapier +20 +4d10 critical [+8 Level +6 Cha +4 Enh +2 Feat]
At-Will Powers:
Misdirected Mark
Bard Attack 1
Ranged 10 +20 vs. Reflex
Standard Action Target: One creature
Hit: 1d8+12 damage. The target is marked by an ally within 5 until the end of Salrantol's next turn.
Vicious Mockery
Bard Attack 1 * Charm, Psychic
Ranged 10 +20 vs. Will
Standard Action Target: One creature
Hit: 1d6+12 psychic damage. The target takes a -2 penalty to attack rolls until the end of Salrantol's next turn.
Encounter Powers:
Majestic Word
Bard Feature * Healing
Close burst 10
Minor Action Target: Salrantol or one ally in burst
Effect: The target can spend a healing surge and regain an extra 3d6+6 hit points. Salrantol slides the target 1.
Special: Salrantol can use this power three times per encounter, but only once per round.
Words of Friendship
Bard Feature
Minor Action Personal
Salrantol gets a +5 power bonus to the next Diplomacy check he makes before the end of his next turn.
Charger's Call
Bard Attack 3
Melee Weapon +23 vs. AC
Standard Action Target: One creature
Hit: 2d8+12 damage. Allies within 5 get +6 to attack rolls while charging until the end of Salrantol's next turn.
Song of Conquest
Bard Utility 6
Minor Action Personal
Effect: Until the end of Salrantol's next turn, allies within 5 who hit an enemy gain 8 temporary hit points.
Scorpion's Claw Strike
Bard Attack 7
Melee Weapon +23 vs. AC
Standard Action Target: One creature
Hit: 2d8+12 damage. Slide an ally adjacent to the target to another space adjacent to the target. That ally gets a +5 power bonus to AC until the end of Salrantol's next turn.
Victorious Smite
War Chanter Attack 11
Melee Weapon +23 vs. AC
Standard Action Target: One creature
Hit: 1d8+12 damage.
Effect: An ally within 5 can shift 3 and make a basic melee attack against the target with +5 to attack and damage.
Battle Chant
War Chanter Utility 12
Close burst 10
Minor Action Target: Salrantol and each ally in burst.
Effect: Salrantol chooses an enemy. Each target gets a +2 power bonus to attack rolls against that enemy until the end of his next turn.
Earthquake Strike
Bard Attack 13
Melee Weapon +23 vs. AC
Standard Action Target: One creature
Hit: 2d8+12 damage and Salrantol knocks the target prone. Until the end of Salrantol's next turn, allies within 10 get +5 to damage rolls and can knock prone any creature they hit.
Commander's Strike
Dillettante Racial Power
Melee Weapon
Standard Action Target: One creature
Effect: An ally makes an melee basic attack against the target.
Hunter's Quarry
Warrior of the Wild Feat
Minor Action Target: The nearest enemy Salrantol can see
Effect: Salrantol deals an extra 2d6 damage to the target, maximum once per round, until the end of his next turn.
Special: This is not a power.
Daily Powers:
Slayer's Song
Bard Attack 1
Melee Weapon +23 vs. AC
Standard Action Target: One creature
Hit: 2d8+12 damage. The target grants combat advantage to the party (save ends).
Miss: Half damage.
Effect: Until the end of the encounter, whenever Salrantol hits an enemy, that enemy grants combat advantage to the party until the end of Salrantol's next turn.
Song of Defense
Bard Utility 2 * Zone
Close Burst 5
Minor Action
Effect: The burst becomes a zone, which remains centered on Salrantol as he moves, giving a +1 power bonus to AC to all allies in zone. Sustain Minor.
Salrantol's Uncontrollable Hideous Laughter
Bard Attack 9 * Charm, Psychic
Ranged 10 +20 vs. Will
Standard Action Target: One creature
Hit: 3d8+12 psychic damage. The target can't take opportunity actions and takes a -2 penalty to attack rolls (save ends both). Aftereffect: The target can't take opportunity actions (save ends).
Miss: Half damage, and the target can't take opportunity actions until the end of Salrantol's next turn.
Word of Life
Bard Utility 10 * Healing
Close Burst 20
Immediate Reaction Target: The triggering ally
Trigger: An enemy attack reduces an ally in the burst to 0hp or fewer
Effect: The target can spend a healing surge. The attacking enemy takes a -5 penalty to all defenses until the end of Salrantol's next turn.
Menacing Thunder
Bard Attack 15 * Thunder, Zone
Close Burst 2 +20 vs. Fortitude
Standard Action Target: Each enemy in burst
Hit: 2d8+12 thunder damage.
Effect: The burst becomes a zone until the end of the encounter. While within the zone, any ally gets a +2 power bonus to attack rolls.
Song of Sublime Snowfall
Bard Utility 16 * Healing, Zone
Area Burst 2 within 10
Standard Action Target: Each ally in burst
Effect: Each target regains 6 hit points. The burst is a zone of difficult terrain for enemies (including flying enemies) until the end of Salrantol's next turn.
Sustain Minor: The zone persists, and each target within the zone regains 6 hit points.
Item Powers:
Acrobat Boots
Minor Action
Effect: Salrantol stands up from prone.
Piercing Songblade Rapier
Free Action
Trigger: Salrantol hits an enemy with a bard power using this blade.
Effect: Until the end of the encounter, that enemy takes a -2 penalty to AC.
Dwarven Wyrmscale
Free Action * Healing
Effect: Salrantol regains 29 hit points.
Dragondaunt Main-Gauche
Immediate Interrupt
Trigger: Salrantol is hit by an area or close attack.
Effect: Reduce the damage dealt by the attack to Salrantol and each adjacent ally by 10.
Gauntlets of Draconic Power
Free Action
Trigger: Salrantol hits with a melee attack.
Effect: +5 power bonus to damage roll.
Mac-Fuirmidh Cittern
Standard Action
Trigger: Use during a short rest on an ally who remained within 20 during the rest.
Effect: Until the end of the ally's next short rest or extended rest, the ally regains an additional 4 hit points when spending a healing surge.
Ability Scores
STR 14 (+2) [3 pts] [13 Base, +1 advancement]
CON 20 (+5) [5 pts] [14 Base, +2 Racial, +4 advancement]
DEX 15 (+2) [5 pts] [14 Base, +1 advancement]
INT 11 (+0) [0 pts] [10 Base, +1 advancement]
WIS 9 (-1) [0 pts] [8 Base, +1 advancement]
CHA 22 (+6) [9 pts] [16 Base, +2 Racial, +4 advancement]
Feats
Sneak of Shadows [Level 1]
Weapon Proficiency (Rapier) [Level 2]
Warrior of the Wild (Perception) [Level 4]
Armor Proficiency (Scale) [Level 6]
Weapon Expertise (Light Blade) [Level 8]
Weapon Focus (Light Blade) [Level 10]
Armor Specialization (Scale) [Level 11]
Melee Training (Charisma) [Level 12]
Improved Valor [Level 14]
Implement Expertise (Songblade) [Level 16]
Class Features
Bardic Training (Salrantol can use two bard rituals per day without providing components.)
Virtue of Valor (Once per round, when an ally within 5 bloodies a foe or reduces a foe to 0hp or fewer, Salrantol and that ally gain 11 temporary hit points.)
Inspire by Word (When Salrantol bloodies a foe or reduces a foe to 0hp or fewer, one ally within 10 gains 10 temporary hit points.)
Song of Rest (Allies gain +6 HP when spending a healing surge at the end of a short rest)
Sneak Attack +3d6 1/encounter
Inspire by Example (When Salrantol spends an action point to take an extra action, each ally within 5 gains +5 to attack and damage until the end of his next turn.)
Inspire by Deed (Salrantol may spend 2 action points in an encounter.)
Racial Features
Group Diplomacy (Allies within 10 gain +1 racial Diplomacy.)
Low-Light Vision
Item Properties
Resist 5 dragon attacks
+1 Strength checks
Skills
Acrobatics: +15 [+8 Level +1 Dex +5 Trained -0 Armor +1 Item]
Arcana: +15 [+8 Level +2 Int +5 Trained]
Athletics: +12 [+8 Level +2 Str +1 Untrained -0 Armor +1 Item]
Bluff: +15 [+8 Level +6 Cha +1 Untrained]
Diplomacy: +23 [+8 Level +6 Cha +5 Trained +2 Racial +2 Item]
Dungeoneering: +8 [+8 Level -1 Wis +1 Untrained]
Endurance: +14 [+8 Level +5 Con +1 Untrained -0 Armor]
Heal: +12 [+8 Level -1 Wis +5 Trained]
History: +11 [+8 Level +2 Int +1 Untrained]
Insight: +14 [+8 Level -1 Wis +5 Trained +2 Racial]
Intimidate: +17 [+8 Level +6 Cha +1 Untrained +2 Item]
Nature: +8 [+8 Level -1 Wis +1 Untrained]
Perception: +12 [+8 Level -1 Wis +5 Trained]
Religion: +11 [+8 Level +2 Int +1 Untrained]
Stealth: +10 [+8 Level +1 Dex +1 Untrained -0 Armor]
Streetwise: +19 [+8 Level +6 Cha +5 Trained]
Thievery: +14 [+8 Level +1 Dex +5 Trained -0 Armor]
Languages: Common, Elven, Dwarven
Rituals
Traveler's Chant [Bard] [Level 1][Arcana: 10 gp components]
Comprehend Language [Level 1][Arcana: 10 gp components]
Enchant Magic Item [175 gp][Arcana: variable components]
Discern Lies [360 gp][Religion: 140 gp components]
Song of Sustenance [Bard] [680 gp][Arcana: 135 gp components]
Aria of Revelation [Bard] [1000 gp][Arcana: 400 gp components]
Raise Dead [680 gp][Heal: 5000 gp components]
Endure Elements [100 gp][Arcana: 20 gp components]
Eye of Alarm [100 gp][Arcana: 25 gp components]
Tune of Merriment [Bard] [900 gp][Arcana: 160 gp components]
Equipment:
dwarven wyrmscale +3 [13000 gp][45 lb][This bright red armor was forged from the skin of the first dragon slain by Salrantol, a prince among wyrmkind named Zathrexximontakxzikh, and is a major part of why the bard is so loathed by dragons.]
piercing songlade rapier +4 [85000 gp][2 lb][Trailing streams of shimmering musical notation, this blade hums along with Salrantol's performances.]
dragondaunt main-gauche [treat as dragondaunt light shield][45000 gp][6 lb][A bright amber gem adorns the hilt of this swept-hilt dagger.]
acrobat boots [540 gp][0 lb]
gauntlets of draconic power [treat as gauntlets of ogre power][1000 gp][0 lb]
amulet of protection +4 [45000 gp][0 lb]
circlet of authority [2600 gp][0 lb]
bag of holding [1000 gp][1 lb]
belt of vigor (paragon) [13000 gp][0 lb]
Mac-Fuirmidh Cittern [1000 gp][0 lb]
sanctified incense [140 gp][0 lb]
alchemical reagents [1600 gp][0 lb]
Thieves' Tools [20 gp][1 lb]
Bedroll [1 sp][5 lb]
Waterskin [1 gp][4 lb]
Trail Rations [6 days][3 gp][6 lb]
Total: 212975/213000 gp, 55/110 lbBackgroundIsilina Vakt was seduced by a young elf in his late 90s, and was soon found to be with child. Her wealthy merchant family drove her away over the shame of it, and she found herself passage with a caravan to the distant city of Silverton. Once there, she put the sewing skills she had learned in idleness to work as a seamstress, and raised her son Salrantol poor and alone.
The boy grew up mostly on the streets of Silverton. He hated being half-elven, and got his ears pierced to fold over and be pinned with a stud, so as to look human. He managed to fall in with the wrong sort of youth, but after hearing the stories of his mother's exile from her family, was unwilling to become involved with anything illicit, lest he dishonor her. However, when she fell deathly ill, and none of the local temples would cure her without a sizable donation, he crafted an alter ego named Lesren to participate in just such illicit activities, without shaming her.
During the course of such illegal practices, he participated in some extortion work for the Ningels, the local gnome-headed thieves' guild, and was forced to follow through on one threat and burn down a glassblower's shop. He later learned that one of the glassblower's daughters had been in the building, and this caused him terrible grief. Since he had been operating under an assumed identity, he believes himself to have gotten away with it, but it still haunts him, as does a paladin of Lis who continues to seek Lesren to this day.
Once he came to himself after the glassblower incident, he took to adventuring, and it inspired him in word and song. His companions, however, grew more brash as they heard their tales told in songs, and, perhaps, exaggerated for effect. Their boldness, or rather foolhardiness, caused them to challenge the red dragon Zathrexximontakxzikh. All fell save Salrantol, who narrowly survived the encounter. To commemorate his fallen comrades, Salrantol used the dragon in the crafting of various magical items, including his suit of armor, his gauntlets, and his main-gauche. Little did he know at the time, but this enraged most of dragonkind, and has since caused him no shortage of confrontations with dragons. He still does not realize that he himself is being compelled to seek out dragons by some lingering spirit of Zathrexximontakxzikh in the items.
If Zathrexximontakxzikh could not establish his dominance over dragonkind in life, he will at least accomplish it in death. And of course, no dragon can be allowed to best the man who bested him, so his lingering spirit defies any dragons to harm Salrantol.
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[center]Ash
"My ancestors made a mistake by drawing power from devils. They should have chosen dragons."[/center]AshAsh
Male Tiefling Sorcerer (Turathi Highborn)
Hit Points...100......Bloodied....50
Healing Surge.26......Surges/day...7
Initiative....+7......Speed........6
AC:...32 (+3 armor, +4 enhancement, +2 shield, +5 Str, +8 lvl) (+2 after being bloodied)
Fort:.27 (+4 enhancement, +5 Str, +8 lvl)
Ref:..26 (+4 enhancement, +2 shield, +2 Int, +8 lvl)
Will:.30 (+2 class, +4 enhancement, +6 Cha, +8 lvl)
(+1 to all vs. ranged, area, close)
Attacks:
Melee Basic..+19(+3 flaming dagger)..Damage: 1d4+10
(+8 level, +5 Str, +3 prof, +3 enh)
Ranged Basic.+13(+3 flaming dagger)..Damage: 1d4+8...Range 10/20
(+8 level, -1 Dex, +3 prof, +3 enh)
Ranged Basic.+19 vs.Reflex(Acid Orb).Damage: 1d10+22...Range 20
(Attack: +8 level, +6 Cha, +3 enh, +2 feat; Damage: +6 Cha, +3 enh, +2 feat, +7 class, +4 item)
(Fire attacks: +1 attack/damage; Bloodied target: +1 attack/+7 damage)
At-Will Powers:
Acid Orb
Sorcerer Attack 1
Ranged 20 - +19 vs. Reflex
Hit: 1d10+22 acid damage
Special: Counts as a ranged basic attack.
Burning Spray
Sorcerer Attack 1
Close Blast 3 - +20 vs. Reflex
Hit: 1d8+19 fire damage and the next enemy that hits Ash before the end of his next turn takes 5 (Str) fire damage.
Encounter Powers:
Infernal Wrath
Racial
Minor Action - Personal
Effect: Gain +1 power bonus to attack opponent that hit Ash since last turn. If attack hits, it deals +6 (Cha) damage and knocks the target prone.
Flame Spiral
Sorcerer Attack 3
Close Burst 2 - +20 vs. Reflex
Target: 1-3 creatures in burst
Hit: 1d10+19 fire damage.
Effect: Until start of next turn, any enemy that enters or starts in a square next to Ash takes 1d6+13 fire damage.
Sudden Scales
Sorcerer Utility 6
Immediate Interrupt - Personal
Trigger: Ash is hit by an attack
Effect: Gain +8 (Str+3) to all defenses against the attack.
Crushing Sphere
Sorcerer Attack 7
Area Burst 1 within 10 - +19 vs. Reflex
Hit: 2d6+18 force damage and the target takes -2 to attack rolls for 1 round.
Jaws of the Earth
Sorcere Attack 13
Ranged 10 - +19 vs. Reflex
Hit: 3d6+18 damage and the target is immobilized for 1 round. While immobilized, allies can move through its space, and it cannot take OAs for movement.
Bolts of Bedevilment
Turathi Highborn Attack 11
Ranged 10 - +10 vs. Will
Target: One creature
Hit: Target makes a basic attack against a creature of Ash's choice as a free action. Attack gains +2 power bonus to hit and deals +2d6+1 fire damage.
Daily Powers:
Lightning Breath
Sorcerer Attack 1
Close Blast 3 - +19 vs. Reflex
Hit: 3d8+18 lightning damage.
Miss: Half damage.
Effect: For 1 round, whenever an enemy hits Ash with a melee attack, they take 5 lightning damage and are pushed 1.
Sustain: Minor.
Elemental Shift
Sorcerer Utility 2
Minor Action - Personal
Effect: Change the resistance granted by Dragon Soul to another type (acid, cold, lightning, poison, thunder). An adjacent ally gains rests 10 to that type as well.
Staggering Blast
Sorcerer Attack 9
Ranged 10 - +19 vs. Will
Hit: 3d8+18 psychic damage and if the target moves before the end of Ash's next turn, he can knock it prone during that movement as an immediate interrupt.
Miss: Half damage, and the target is prone.
Invert Resistance
Sorcerer Utility 10
Minor Action - Each enemy in Close Burst 5
Effect: Each target loses all resistances and gains vulnerable 5 to the damage types it resisted (save ends both).
Scintillating Starburst
Sorcerer Attack 15
Ranged 20 - +19 vs. Reflex
Hit: 4d6+18 radiant damage and the target is blinded (save ends).
Miss: Half damage.
Comrades' Mantle
Minor Action - Each ally in Close Burst 5
Effect: Each target gains resist 5 to a damage type of Ash's choice.
Infernal Nova
Turathi Highborn Utility 12
Minor Action - Personal - Fire, Stance
Effect: Whenever Ash takes damage from a melee attack, adjacent enemies take 5 fire damage.
Item Powers:
Cloak of Resistance
Daily - Minor Action - Gain resist 10 all until start of next turn.
Flaming Dagger
Critical: +3d6 fire.
At will - Free Action - Damage becomes fire; powers gain fire keyword.
Daily - Free Action - On a hit, deal +2d6 fire and ongoing 10 fire (save ends)
Shadowfell Gloves
Daily - Minor Action - Next arcane power used deals necrotic damage instead of its normal type and deals +2d6 necrotic damage.
Flute of the Dancing Satyr
Encounter - Move - Shift 2, and allies with 5 of the destination can shift 1 as a free action.
Ability Scores
STR 20 (+5) [10 pts] [16 base, +4 advancement]
CON 13 (+1) [02 pts] [12 base, +1 advancement]
DEX 09 (-1) [00 pts] [08 base, +1 advancement]
INT 15 (+2) [02 pts] [12 base, +2 racial, +1 advancement]
WIS 11 (+0) [00 pts] [10 base, +1 advancement]
CHA 22 (+6) [10 pts] [16 base, +2 racial, +4 advancement]
Feats
Armor Proficiency (Leather)
Implement Expertise (dagger) (+2 to hit with implement)
Improved Dragon Soul (Resistance improves by 5)
Weapon Focus (dagger) (+2 damage with weapon)
Hellfire Blood (+1 attack and damage with fire or fear)
Combat Anticipation (+1 feat bonus to all defenses againt ranged, area, close attacks)
Shield Proficiency (light)
Shield Proficiency (heavy)
Draconic Spellfury (When you hit an opponent with an at-will power, gain 5 (Str) temp HP)
Class Features
Draconic Power: +7 (Str+2) damage with arcane powers
Dragonic Resilience: Str determines AC
Dragon Soul: Resist 15 fire, and ignore up to resist 15 fire of targets
Scales of the Dragon: When first bloodied, gain +2 AC for encounter
Turathi Frenzy: +7 (Cha+1) damage to bloodied enemies
Hellfire Action: When AP spent to make an attack, it deals +2d6 fire damage
Kneel Before the Turathi: Target hit by Infernal Wrath is prone.
Racial Features
Vision: low-light
Bloodhunt: +1 to attack bloodied opponents
Fire Resistance: 13 (5+1/2 level) (but see class features)
Power: Infernal Wrath
Skills
Acrobatics.......+5
Arcana...........+15 (Trained)
Athletics........+16 (Trained)
Bluff............+21 (Trained) (+2 racial)
Diplomacy........+16 (+2 item)
Dungeoneering....+8
Endurance........+7
Heal.............+8
History..........+10
Insight..........+8
Intimidate.......+23 (Trained) (+2 background) (+2 item)
Nature...........+8
Perception.......+8
Religion.........+10
Stealth..........+7 (+2 racial)
Streetwise.......+14
Thievery.........+5
Equipment:
+4 Feyleather Armor [45,000 gp][15 lb]
+3 Flaming Dagger [25,000 gp][1 lb]
+4 Cloak of Resistance [65,000 gp]
Bracers of the Perfect Shot (paragon) [17,000 gp]
Acrobat Boots [520 gp]
Shadowfell Gloves (paragon) [45,000 gp]
Belt of Vigor (heroic) [520 gp]
Circlet of Authority [2,600 gp]
Flute of the Dancing Satyr [1,800 gp]
Potion of Vitality [1000 gp]
Potion of Healing x4 [200 gp]
Heavy Shield [10 gp][15 lb]
Standard Adventurer's Kit [15 gp][33 lb]
Climber's Kit [2 gp][11 lb]
Total: 203,667/213,000 gp, 76/200 lbBackgroundAlthough Ash (née Mordrak) was born into a noble family, he always felt constrained by his background, rather than empowered by it. The brand the ancient devils had placed on the descendants of the Turathi was unacceptable to him, so he went out to find power of his own. And find it he did.
Draconic magic, it seemed to the young Ash, was just as powerful as diabolic magic, but the ancient and lazy wyrms were not bothered to put limits on those who sought to tap into their power. After much trial and error, he finally discovered a way to tap into that raw energy and channel it for himself. The ritual left a permanent tinge of draconic presence on him, increasing the impact of his bearing.
Unsatisfied with this entrée into power, the tiefling sought more. The only way he knew of to improve his draconic powers was to take them from their original hosts, and thus he became a dragon hunter. With each dragon he slays, he gains in power by a little bit more, until one day he will be able to challenge the devils themselves for the freedom of his bloodline.
HP: 102/102
Healing Surges: 9/9
Action Points: 1
Daily Items used:
Daily Powers used:
Gorban (lonewolf):
HP: 147/147
Healing Surges: 13/13
Action Points: 1
Daily Items used:
Daily Powers used: Form of the Stone Crusher
Salrantol (Salrantol):
HP: 109/109
Healing Surges: 12/12
Action Points: 1
Daily Items used:
Daily Powers used:
Sir Nicholas (whitebaron):
HP: 131/131
Healing Surges: 16/16
Action Points: 1
Daily Items used:
Daily Powers used: Wrath of the Gods
Ash (MindWandererB):
HP: 100/100
Healing Surges: 7/7
Action Points: 1
Daily Items used:
Daily Powers used: Comrade's Mantle
Jadorel (LinkN):
HP: 92/92
Healing Surges: 7/7
Action Points: 1
Daily Items used:
Daily Powers used:
It wasn’t long before the striding sextet of adventurers arrived to the dilapidated outpost tower they only just left yesterday.This outpost, serving as both a temporary haven in such harsh conditions, and an airfield on the calmer days, was not always in such terrible condition. Despite the searing winds, there were still crews working furiously, not only to stave off the impending frostbite, but also to make worthy patchwork closing holes and coverings tears. In reality, everyone was thankful for the condition of the tower and its integrity. After all, not much was usually left of buildings attacked by a furious dragon.
“Damn, Mellix, about time. I was losing feeling in feet…” The grunt came from Paltrin, the party Paladin and Champion and Torm. Paltrin, a goliath of a man, was one of their strongest members, whose skillful blade was matched only by his quick wit. He was oft to never let a problem slide without complaint, but his diligent nature meant he always saw a task through, and never sought to disappoint an ally.
“Hey, Paltrin, at least your feet still work. Count your lucky stars you had me on your team, because I don’t think any of the rest of you could have found your way back in the middle of a blizzard.” Mellix, the elven ranger, was the arguable leader of the party, with the greater aspects of courage, wisdom, and adaptability required to head such a group. Mellix got along well with most everyone, and his relaxed nature was well-received by most. At times, Mellix was caught being reckless, but due to his strategies, only he would suffer consequence for it. Mellix preferred to give credit where it was due, and take responsibility where it was to be had.
“In that case, then I should be thanked, Mellix, for it was I who brought you back from the dead. We’re lucky you did not shatter from that freezing breath and I could bring you back.” The retort came from Calpas, the party cleric and resident gnome, who was nothing, if not lazy. Often oversleeping, shirking duties, and delegating work, Calpas was at least the type of rationale and cautious person to keep himself alive in battle. Despite all that, he was a doctor at heart and in his faith of Pelor, he was motivated and potent enough to never let the party down in injury or death.
“Hey guys, don’t forget! It was my axe that broke the armor plating on its side! Nothing getting past these bad boys, I tell ya! HA HA!” Guffawing in defiance to both the cold and fallen enemies, Prok flexed his beastly muscles. The heavy axe wielder with a lust for violence to all foes, Prok was a wild Barbarian in every sense of the word. For him, raging was an artificial high and satisfying on the most primal level. His loyalty to Mellix unquestionable, as it was often Mellix who bailed the goliath out of trouble in towns and the law, when Prok would speak with his fists rather than words. Not to mention, Mellix would be the one to cover for Prok’s short-sightedness, and pull him out before things got to hot. While Mellix himself lack substantial body mass or muscle, Prok more than made up for the two of them. Likely his best friend in the group, Mellix and Prok held strong respect for each other.
“What, no thank-you’s for the arcane genius who kept that thing pinned down so you could all whallop it? Last I checked, in this blizzard you fellows could not hit the broad side of a barn, and here I am, nice enough to pull it down and keep it landed. I tell you, there’s nothing magic can’t solve.”
‘’Common sense, for one,” chuckled Paltrin.
Snorting at this was the final member of their troupe, Philip, a human self-acclaimed wizard genius. Of noble birth, Philip was a researcher at a wizarding college in Sagaris, until the need for draconic components prompted him to commission Mellix and his group through the Minutemen bureau for a dragon slaying. Mellix and crew succeeded, but Philip noted something vastly irregular in the sample brought back from the Despardia mountain base, where Mellix happened to be at the time. Not only was there strange auras remnant of the feywild in the bones, but also necromantic magic far beyond any formulas in his book. Philip, though not modest, was well deserved in being regarded as well-read. He had never heard of such combinations, and he was in a department that specialized in experimental new rituals. When Mellix suggested showing him the site, Philip thought carefully, then agreed. He was not just a book worm after all, and gained much of his materials under his own strength.
The expedition led back to the Despardia mountains north of Sagaris, and after some grated bonding with the group, especially Paltrin, Philip was accepted in after proving his worth. Mellix’s crew, the Forerunners, was a noteworthy crew, situated in the upper ranges of the Paragon Tier according to the statistical reports in Sagaris public record. As such, they could accept all jobs short of those cleared exclusively for Epic Tier, but such groups were rare. Regardless, the task for now was just to investigate the lair of that dragon. In the mountains, especially one perpetually snow-capped, finding a hidden lair required the skills of a master huntsman, of which Mellix fit the bill.
Philip ducked under a pylon as he moved into one the rooms reserved by the party, which were already insulated. The Mending rituals were coming along, but there were few ritual casters on site, so progress was slow. Philip was at his limit for arcane admixtures for the ritual, but fortunately Calpas had enough residuum left over to cover the essentials of the tower. In gratitude, the tower keepers let them board at the room for free for as long as they stayed. What no one in the group dared to mention was the fact that the tower was nearly-completely demolished because of the party being there, or rather, what they had in their possession. As Philip reached into his satchel to confirm its safety, his hands wrapped around a warm, glowing orb. Philip was anxious to bring it back to Sagaris for study, but the Teleportation Node at this tower was destroyed in the attack of the dragon, and as such the fastest way down would be by airship in the morning when the blizzard subsided. Philip knew the dragon wanted this, and the faster they could leave the better.
Looking over to his party members, who all were likely thinking the same thing, especially after the narrow escape they endured. As it was soon time to turn in, after placing several layers of wards up, the party drifted in an exhausted sleep, reflecting their previous perilous hours. Philip especially could not help but remember how it all started …
- - - - - - - - - - -
Mellix pointed to a snow drift in the distance. “There, that has to be it.” The party was already short on breath, not due to the length of the trek up the mountain from the Outpost tower, but from the severe shortage of oxygen at these altitudes.
“How can you be so sure?” Philip could not help but inquire.
“A few things , ” Mellix said, as he drew his weapon and signaled his crew to do the same. If he was right, and this was a dragon lair, even a former one, it was not to be taken lightly. “Firstly, the spot where we encountered the dragon was not too far from here. The species was White, not surprisingly, and while they are beastly, they are not stupid. This snow drift is made to look like the others around here, but its haphazardly done. A natural one would not be going against the wind like this. Not to mention, it disguises a great perch point. One can see the entire south side of the mountain form here, Tower included. Too good a spot to pass up, Finally, there is not even so much as a snow hare here. The wildlife, even past the frostline, has avoided this area since they know it’s been marked by a dragon. Really, it’s likely little more than a pile of snow and ice blocking an entrance.”
Philip pursed his lips. That rationale certainly seemed logical, but why the extreme caution. Dragons of that size were usually by themselves, and did not share territory well with others. The likelihood of another dragon moving into the former den in only a day was small. “While it is good to see you all so vigilant in your guard, you already killed this dragon, why so worried?”
Mellix was not amused as his forehead creased in seriousness,“ Because, we saw more … lots more in this area. It’s not natural. THEY were not natural.”
“Wait what!? You didn’t mention this before! You told me you only encountered the one!”
“We didn’t lie, scholar” Paltrin interjected. “We truly only hunted and killed the commissioned white dragon. But while we were searching for its horde, an obvious perk of the job, we took the better part of discretion when we saw what we saw.”
“Dragons … dozens of them in congregation, in the valley to the north at the base of this peak,” Mellix continued, “This was, they were all different kinds … some I recognized, the chromatic kind, but there were others, many others, that I never even witnessed before in my life, nor heard of their likeness. And trust me, I’ve lived a much longer life than you and seen beast that scholars are still trying to name.”
“Sure, when you’re not screwing up and dying,” Calpas mumbled to the side.
“Anyway, such a number of dragons, I did not want to spend any more time in the area than we had to. The people in the Tower did not know of it, and disregarded our claim, but when I heard you contact me again, this time about the irregularities in the remnants, it got me to thinking. I wanted to show you in person what we were talking about and, not to mention, investigate the lair of our kill. Something about this all is giving me a bad feeling, and when hundreds of dragons, mostly evil, show up in one place, that cannot be good. I even checked with the Epic league branch of the Minutemen, no reports or sightings. It’s all so strange.”
Philip nodded, it was indeed strange and slightly ominous. Regardless, it called for investigation, and when dragons were involved, no measures were safe enough. He looked on as Mellix strided closed to the snow drift, then took out a longsword. Upon will, it burst into flames, likely reserved for the dragon, and Mellix melted the snow quickly in the snow drift. As per his intuition, the pile of snow was really a cover for a large cavern going into the mountainside, and out of the open.
Inside, the temperate seemed warmer, though it was not due ot an actual temperature change, and rather the lack of outside, battering wind and related wind chill. Scouting ahead, Mellix signaled the party forth in intervals, over a few natural traps, and soon into the cavernous crystalline ice chamber of the ice dragon. Adorned to the side were various statues, suits of armor, some with bodies still inside, and jewels. Moreso than gold pieces, there were precious stones of lighter hues, and they competed with the natural ice crystals here for luminance.
“Ok, Calpas, Prok, you guys take the usual salvage steps and send it back to our safe in town. Paltrin, cover them. I’ll take the Professor P to search the premise for any anomalies.” Nodding, each member took to their duties.
Calpas started immediately casting a ritual to bring a magical chest from their safe in Sagaris here, so that the bags of holding within could be filled with the treasure around them, and sent back to be sorted at a later time.
Philip quickly searched his bag for a pair of magical spectacles that could read magical auras and magic searching and identifying them significantly more manageable. The strongest auras came into focus, but those included himself, his party members, and a few pieces of the treasure in the room, the remainder of which were being collected by Prok. He searched the curves of the walls, running his hand lightly against the frosted edge, but found nothing. The floor, a thick sheet of potentially slippery ice, also hid no signatures, But when he shifted his focus to the roof, one of the icicles, notably the large center one that was refracted much of the light in the area, held a tremendous aura. The intensity of which forced Philip to look away after much long. “Mellix, there’s something in that center icicle there. Look closely”
Mellix looked up and the blinding icicle, shielding his eyes with one hand. “What about it? I can’t see anything past the light.”
“Get that icicle down, you’ll see.“ Nodding, he twirled his longsword until he was holding the hilt like a spear. Hurling the flaming weapon towards the icicle, it sunk deep into the thick spike. It was not long, however, until the rapid change in temperature weakened the icicle, both melting it and sending deep cracks along its base. Breaking free, everyone in the room leapt away as the ice structure hurtled down and shattered into thousands of tiny fragments of ice. No one was hurt, but everyone soon saw what Philip was talking about. One the ground, about the size of the average grapefruit, was spherical glass orb, with dozens of orange wisps swirling and churning within.
Prok had no qualms about picking up the orb, and handing it to Mellix. Mellix held up a hand and shook his head, “I wouldn’t know what to do with that things. Hand it over to Philip.” As Prok did so Mellix bent over to retrieve his sword. Philip was incredulous at the discovery, “Fascinating! I’ve never seen anything like it!”
“Really?” Paltrin remarked, “You never saw a ball of fire before?”
“Quiet you,” Calpas scoffed,” this isn’t some orb of fire you can buy at the market. That’s not normal glass, and theenergy inside …. It’s not fire. It’s something … necromantic.”
“You noticed it too, eh?” Philip noted, impressed at the insight of the seemingly-aloof cleric. “Yes, this is not normal, and I would wager it’s not natural either. Normally when something is crafted, there is a special seal on it to denote the maker and to expose counterfeits or duplications. Someone made this, but how, and what for? More importantly, why was it held here? Was the dragon --”
“—Protecting it? Possible.” Mellix realized as well, “Damn it all, if that’s the case then we wasted to much time here already. If this was worth having a dragon guard, then there were other wards as well, and someone already knows its missing. We’ve got to get out of here, now.”
Post haste the party packed up what they could grab and sprinted out into the cold once more. Philip held onto the orb, but shoved it into his satchel for safekeeping. Fortunately, they did not find, nor encounter any opposition of any kind the entire way back to the tower.
“Phew, let’s hope that was just our imagination … if anyone comes up, at least we have the tower now.”
Paltrin nodded, “And did you see the cannons and guns on that scrapped Javelin over there? I heard that the tower keeper found the wreckage on the mountain side a few years ago, repaired it bit by bit, and brought it here. It’s from the 300 series, which they stopped making decades ago so it must be a remnant of the old war that was shot down. Still works, though, isn’t that amazing? Just goes to show you the quality they used to build these things with …. Not like the 700s these days ... Cheap pieces of crap they are…”
Mellix took Philip by the shoulder and pushed him towards their room, “You’d better go on ahead. I know you want to look at that thing as soon as you can. Paltrin grew up in a factory as a squire, loves machines, and has a few rides back in Sagaris. But, he’ll talk your ear off if you let him. Just let me know if you learn anything.” Philip took that to heart, stepped inside, and began setting up a work area to examine the orb further.
A few hours passed, and it was already evening for the camp. The Forerunners were busying themselves for a return visit to the lair, but this time for some reconnaissance. If it was a false alarm, then they would find out. If the area had any new signs of life, then that confirmed the whole thing was a trap. For the trip, Mellix was taking himself and Prok along, with Paltrin and Calpas to hold down the literal fort. Mellix took a step towards the northern cliffside edge of the camp, peering down into the valley and wondering were any dragon eye to peer back at him. Suddenly, a roar let loose, jostling loose massive clumps of snow from the precipice, and forcing Mellix to stumble back. However, unexpectedly, a huge white glint soared up adjacent to the cliff, clamped down on Mellix in one fell swoop.
“WHAT THE ---!” Paltrin exclaimed in shock
“MELLIX!” cried Prok.
“We’ve got to follow him, hurry!” Calpas commanded, running indoors to fetch Philip.
Mellix, after the shock of being ambushed, was not dealing with the shock of having his torso being sawed open as his upper half was inside a dragon’s maw, and his lower half was flailing outside. The pungent stench was enough to paralyze him, had it not been for a massive slimy tongue keeping him in place. At this rate, he knew he would not be in one piece for much longer. He had faith in his friends wo help him out, even in such peril. Breathing down ice on the area, the tower was coating with sheets of thick, dangerously cold ice and many patrons fled inside. Intent on attacking the tower, the dragon was furious in striking the tower down, gorging it with its claws, spearing it with its tails and battering it with its wings. It was not long before the outpost looked soon to collapse.
Paltrin was the first to engage, pulling out his Hammer of Torm, and brandishing it at the ready. He could not reach the beast just yet, but he primed his next shot when the beast came near. Philip was next to act, seeing the airborne dragon, a white dragon, but clad in cascading armor, and was only halfway between being surprised to see a dragon here after all, to the wonder of why the dragon had armor on, before he quickly assessed that his party needed that thing on the ground and to get Mellix out. “You won’t be getting away, beast, the grasp of the titan shall befall you,” he muttered, as he held forth an outstretched hand to the dragon and clenched his fist. Immediately, the wingspan of the dragon crumpled in on itself and the giant beast fell earthbound. The soft snow in the area fell on the translucent force around the dragon, outlining what looked to be a literal giant hand clenched around the dragon. Prok exploded in outrage of the situation, and hurled himself at the beast, with a giant flail in hand, he leapt up and slammed a shoulder as firm as steel into the dragon’s throat, landing adeptly in place. The dragon choked in response to this, coughing up Mellix and hurtling his body like a rag doll into a snow embankment. Calpas saw Mellix was bad but not lost. “Hold on, I’ll send you to the astral sea to recover for a few moments.”
Mellix stopped him as he reached for his holy symbol, “No, just patch me up … I gotta be here with you guys. That bastard just got me by surprise, is all.” Complying, Calpas infused powerful healing energy with enough vitality to staunch the many wounds on Mellix’s bloodied body.
“Thanks Calpas, time for payback now.” Assessing the rage now, Mellix aimed carefully for the chin of the beast, knowing the general physiology well enough to know that a solid hit to the chin of most beast jostled the brain as well, disorientating it and usually knocking it off balance. A prime shot rang out, slamming into the dragon’s face like a ram. The dragon shook off the otherwise minor damage, but lurched as it attempted to move properly, but its body would not listen to its brain’s commands. Tripping on itself, it collapsed to the ground. “Quick!” yelled Mellix, “While its down, take it out with everything you have! Surge if you have to!”
The dragon was not keen on allowing this, standing up, and then letting loose with a magnificently deadly blast of sheer cold. Everyone in the party was coated in it, and through ill fate, both Mellix and Paltrin took the severe brunt of it, wounding them both critically. Everyone suffered the toll of harsh winter, as they felt their joints stiffen and eyesight blurr. Still, Paltrin was not slow to lose the chance. He strided forward, but was met with a quick lash of the dragon’s massive claws. Paltrin winced past the pain, and prepared himself to lose more. Standing beside the dragon he laid down a prayer, “Foul heathen of purity, with Torm’s order I shall hammer our your scourge! The angelic plume shall be the blade of justice! ” In bloodied retribution, Paltrin slammed his oversized hammer into the leg of the dragon, feeling it crack until the force with grim satisfaction. But he was not done yet, as tears of blood began to well up in his eyes, Paltrin was sacrificing a portion of his own lifeforce to end this evil once and for all. With the retribution of a martyr, Paltrin used his pain to give him focus, and to deliver the weight of the sins of his mark back tenfold. With a strong spin his followed up his onslaught in a surge of action that sent his hammer smashing through the rib bones of the dragon, crushing through its metal plates as if they were not even there.
Prok was already on the beast as well, preparing to explode with rage. Bursting out with a fury of thunder, Prok let loose a roar that dwarfed even the dragon, and sending shockwaves that literally sent the beast fumbling to the ground again. Also in a surge of action, the mighty goliath slowly primed a massive swing aimed at the beast’s skull. In a colossal strike of sudden, unleashed rage, the barbarian brought his mighty flail down with such force the dragon’s skull split open in a sickening mess. Twitching but once, the creature lay still.
Ensuring its death, the party breathed a sigh of relief, almost losing grip of the situation in that surprise blitz attack. However, the reprieve was shortlived, as the body of the entire dragon suddenly crystallized into ice and shattered on its own. To the party’s shock, at its core was a small glowing orange orb, exactly like the one they held in Philip’s care. Even more unexpectedly, the orb suddenly rose, levitating in midair, and began to fly up the mountain. “Quickly, after it!” Mellix cried out, ignoring his own injuries as he chased after it. He was the fastest on foot of the party, but everyone else did their best to catch up. Further and further they chased the orb, which was always just beyond their grasp.
The sun was already set, and in the darkness, the temperatures were frigid beyond belief. To make matters worse, the nightly blizzard was starting up, and they were under threat of becoming lost. In a lapse of cosmic mercy, Mellix lunged out with one arm and caught the orb, before tumbling down in the fresh, icy snow. Laughing to himself, despite circumstance, he took the orb, which was no longer struggling, and passed it to Philip while saying, “This mystery just got deeper, no? C’mon, let’s get back to camp”
- - - - - -
In the morning, Philip woke up early, but saw Calpas was already up, doing morning prayers to Pelor. The tower was nearly rebuilt ot its original integrity, and the tower keep already informed them they had things under control. None the wiser, they thanked the Forerunners once more for their save from the sudden dragon attack, and the Forerunners were just glad to be out.
- - - - -
Back in Sagaris, it was a few days until Mellix heard from Philip again. Reporting in, Philip was quick to cut the formality, “There’s bad news … and worse news…”
“Well, when you put it like that, I’ll take the worse news first.”
“Fine. The worse news is that there are more of them. Much more. I manages to isolate it’s energy signature and locate more of them. They’re all over the world. This thing is someone’s creation using some techniques I’ve never seen before. It’s amazing and frightening at the same time.”
“Ok, so what’s the bad news?”
“These things are artificially creating dragons. I don’t know how and I don’t know why. That’s why there are so many
all of a sudden and acting the way they are. Someone is planning something big with this.”
“Crap … this goes beyond the scope of Sagaris then … we’re gonna need more guys for this.”
On one particular day, a bill was posted to the wall, "Dragon Hunters Wanted! The Evil Dragon populace is higher this year! Need strong warriors to curb the population and tackle a nest! Must be at least Paragon-licensed! Talk to Philip of the Sagaris Wizarding College for more information. Guilds welcome!
Contracted: -,-,-,-,-,-"
Given the large party allotment, as well as the restricting license requirement, a lot of adventurers were curious about the dragon bill. After all, with dragons came hordes. Some were confused, as they had not heard anything about unusual numbers of dragons this year. Not to mention, dragons were not a typical order-of-the-day.
[If everyone can choose a color for text that would be great. Gray will be reserved for OOC comments]
Also, I do plan on fixing up my character sheet a bit more to include power descriptions. Haven't had much of a chance to (busy week), but I'll PM you when it's done, Huan.
"I'm here to see Philip about the dragons," he announced in a tone that would brook no questioning or delay.
"Fear not, gentle populace!" he called out to the gathered throng. "There is at least one adventurer who is up to the challenge of facing these dragons!" With a flourish, he pointed his songlade heavenward, and added, "Salrantol Vakt, the Scourge of All Dragons, Slayer of the Mightiest Zathrexximontakxzikh, shall fend off this draconic scourge, that the citizens of Sagaris should be safe even should they venture beyond the city's bounds!" And with a hearty refrain of "The Slaying of Mightiest Zathrexximontakxzikh," he marched towards the Sagaris Wizarding College, which he knew well, having "studied" some rituals there. He, of course, hoped that the scrolls had not been too expensive to replace.
Yes, he managed to rhyme Zathrexximontakxzikh. Six different ways.
Shadowsong was already inside. She had lived near the tower where the minutemen had caused all the ruckus. While it was not in her nature to be involved in such 'mortal' affairs, it seemed her own well being was at risk. She had followed them down the hill, while their leader was a skilled tracker, he was not good at hiding his tracks in the snow.
While the minutemen had been working out what to do Shadowsong had done her research on the team and was well prepared for the action they might take, as such she simply walked into the build before they had finished posting the notice.
"I'm going to help, my home is on that mountain range"
I´ll post more tomorrow.
One thing Jadorel's going to ask for sure is what kind of dragons we'll be facing. She specializes in ice magic, but she can prepare some non-cold spells for fighting enemies resistant to frost, so she's going to ask about what to prepare for.
Sir Nicholas was only passing by, through a city he barely had heard of and never seen before. Lately, the goddess of luck seemed to have been evading him, as he was already dangerously low on coin. Well, as long as the sun shines in your heart, you'll have nothing to fear., he said to himself as he strolled through the city. Suddenly, he saw another half-elf, a pretty impressive figure strolling and singing through the streets.
Even though he seemed to exxagerate everything he'd ever done, the tune, and what he was talking about, seemed pretty solid - and following him to find out about killing dragons for treasure and coin actually was the best shot at regaining some of the previous wealth.
Waiting for the bard to stop, he followed quietly through the streets. Once he stopped singing, Nicholas raised his voice and said: Hello my friend! May Pelor shine on you and Kord bless your swordarm. I heard you're going out to kill some more of those hideous beasts called dragons - If I may be so bold, I'd like to offer you my sword and my shield. For if ever there is something that has to be upheld, it is the civilization. And Dragons, they definitely work against it!
Ah, I'm forgetting myself and my manners again. My name is Sir Nicholas de Mimsy, Holy Protector of the Faith of Erathis.
A little ashamed of his sudden outburst, Nicholas decides to stay a bit more quiet for the next few hours.
took a long time to type this with only half my hands *g* dont expect me to write lot of stuff like that in the next 2-4 weeks.
The last few months were a hard time for Gorban. After the death of Ferobath, the leader of the adventuring group he had been with the last two years, the group had splintered up. Some members retired, some of them had a big argument and without Ferobath there just wasnt any more glue holding the rest of them together. Gorban found himself in a crisis of confidence, having lost the drive to continue and felt his connection with the natural spirits getting weaker by the day.
So he chose to retreat into the woods alone to clear his head, restrengthen the bonds with the primal spirits and find a purpose in his life again. It took weeks and weeks of patient meditation and physically taxing rituals, but over time Gorban was successful and the end of this spiritual journey Gorban recieved a vision of guidance showing flashes of him fighting dragons and pointing him towards the city of Sagaris. While he was a bit suprised as he was neither specialized in dragonfighting nor usually spent much time in cities, he trusted those visions completely and started his journey south.
Gorban had been in cities before, but not in one as large as Sagaris. He likes to have only a small number of people around him because that way it is much easier to distinguish between friends and foes, while in cities most people are neither, at least not obviously. So he is on his guard evaluating the potential threat of the people around him all the time, which makes him really tense. Not really knowing how he should continue with his quest didnt make that situation any easier, but after a while he got lucky and he heard about that note looking for heroes to fight dragons. He was sure that this was the sign he was looking for and made his way to the wizards college.
Entering the office he slowly and carefully looks at the room and everyone inside before stating his reason of beeing here: "You are looking for strong warriors to fight dragons. I am ready."
After he is earning some strange looks he adds: "I will with Philip about this."
@Huan
I forgot to buy nonmagical and utility equipment for Gorban. If thats ok I´d like to get the following:
Standard Adventurers kit 15gp
Climbers Kit 2gp
Everburning Torch 50gp
Bag of Holding 1000gp
Everlasting Provisions 840gp
Standard Adventurers kit 15gp
Climbers Kit 2gp
Everburning Torch 50gp
Bag of Holding 1000gp
Everlasting Provisions 840gp
Looking up at the paladin, Salrantol offers him a quick salute with his rapier. "Good day to you, sir! Sir Nicholas, you say? De Mimsy?" He looks lost in thought for a moment, then adds, "Are you any relation to Cecilia, Duchess of Mimsy? If so, I assure you, I really did have every intention of settling down with her. Have no doubt of that. I had a spat of trouble that drove me from the estate, and, indeed, at my earliest opportunity, I shall most certainly return to claim her hand." He appears, oddly, both completely confident and terribly flustered. Sir Nicholas gets the impression that he is confident in his ability to act flustered [Insight 22 vs. DC Moderate 20].
"Anyway, we have more important concerns, don't we? Dragons are afoot in the land, and bold adventurers such as we are needed desperately. You need not offer your services to me, sir knight, nay! But offer your services in the defense of the city of Sagaris. You claim to stand up for civilization? Then see this as Erathis' call to service! Let us find this Philip and offer our services to defend this fine land!" The bard sheathes his sword, brushes his red wyrmscale tunic briefly, and extends a handshake to Nicholas.
Philip hung his head in his hands as he exhaled after another long session OF analyzing the orbs. His findings, unfortunately, were small. From a construction perspective, the outer shell was simple glassteel, a common component for building things made to look fragile and elegant, yet could withstand a deadly blow from a heavy mace. The material inside, to his best guess, was a preserved soul. It was different, however, from the soul gems a few monsters
touted, the kind used as a trap, or even the phylacteries liches were known to construct. No, while the soul inside was indeed a dragon's soul, it was not behaving like any soul vessels normally on record. The most troubling part that prevented Philip from concluding it was a phylactery, was when the dragon disintegrated into normal ice and snow. It wasn't magically focused snow, nor was the beast even an ice beast, over that being ice element. Were it a ice or snow construct, then it shouid not have felt pain or even have bled like it did. Even if the construct was built in such a fine craftsmanship, it would not have changed its composition so dramatically, and, not to mention, without exuding any magical auras. Everything about that dragon was ... normal. Even Mellix noted its hot saliva and bad breath while inside its mouth, and that amount of detail could not have been accomplished so casually or discreetly. Everything lay with this orb. The effects began and ended with it, and while it seemed outwardly simple, just a soul in a ball, it was operating in such a manner that eluded Philip's every hypothesis.
Feeling it was time ot take a break, Philip stood up form his workbench and paced in place a bit. This mystery was beyond him, and beyond anyone at the college. He wondered if a Loremaster, keepers of grand libraries and epitomes of knowledge, would have a direction on this thing. If they didn't then no one but the creator would, he supposed. Unfortunately, there were no resident Loremasters in Sagaris, and Loremasters typically answered no appointments. Philip would have to go himself with the Orb, and challenge the Loremaster himself, but that seemed far too tedious. He would give himself more time before resorting to such measures. After all, it was only a few hours since he posted bill regarding the dragons at the Minutemen bureau. Mellix and the rest of the Forerunners went on to inform Sagaris officials about the incident, though he figured that with the incredible amount of unknowns, not to mention the mystery of the orbs, that without some more concrete proof or notable sponsorship, they would likely be taken for tall tales. After all, living breathing dragons are not simply constructed on a whim. Such transmutation would be a veritable philosopher's stone for alchemy.
Philip sighed once more, as he took a sideways glance to the orb, eternally burning in a small, protected force cage. The force barrier at least prevented any subsequent attack upon him in Sagaris. Granted, any dragon that dared attack a city full of restless warriors was biting off more than it could chew. But, with the scores of dragons he was able to locate with auras identical to this one ... even that could topple this city, or any city for that matter. An army of dragons one could infinitely replenish was no laughing matter, but hard to beleive, had he not seen it with his own eyes.
That matter, to him at least, was one reprieve. He was not sure why, but the locations of the other dragons, or at least orbs like this one, gave off very distinct and powerful auras, once he knew what to look for. He marked the locations on a map of the known area around Sagaris, for as he noted some were stationary, while others, likely the animated ones, were quite mobile. The stationary ones, if they were like the one in the Despardia Mountains, where likely being guarded. There were only a handful of these, as far a he could tell, and he could not help but wonder if these orbs, or perhaps the souls within, were special somehow. After all, they were not animated when found, and made no attempt to return ... somewhere ... upon release.
Naturally, that brought abother question to the many already in hi mind. Where was that orb attempting to go? Was it being called or moving of its own? However, before moving too deeply into that he heard a knock on his door. He quickly grabbed a cloth and threw it over the small force cage. "Ah, come in."
A young apprentice scholar came in, one of those charged with assistanceship and aiding with errands, and announced, "Professor Philip, pardon the intrusion, but a party in the lobby has come to seek audience with you over a bill posted at the Minutemen. Shall I see them in?"
Philip was surprised in his mind. Surely the group was guild ready to seek a name for itself, as dragons were an ambitious and uncommon request. After all, it was not as if most people knew where dragons themselves were hidden, nor had enough to entreat its removal. Even the college had a budget and schedule for dragon hunting for arcane ingredients, and that was seldom. "Yes, thank you, see them in here."
The door was closed, and when it was soon reopened, Professor Philip look on the group before him. "Good Afternoon gentlemen, I am Professor Philip Taggery, pleased to make your acquaintance."
@Huan
Like lonewolf, I forgot to buy nonmagical gear, and would like to obtain the following before leaving town:
Thieves' Tools [20 gp][1 lb]
Bedroll [1 sp][5 lb]
Waterskin [1 gp][4 lb]
Trail Rations [6 days][3 gp][6 lb]
Thanks.
Thieves' Tools [20 gp][1 lb]
Bedroll [1 sp][5 lb]
Waterskin [1 gp][4 lb]
Trail Rations [6 days][3 gp][6 lb]
Thanks.
He let the words hang in the air for just a minute before continuing on, "But, we still have a little time, for I do happen to know the locations of the marks. If you can all complete a small retrieval task for me, then I will trust your competence as a team and contract you for the bill. Deal? Feel free to discuss it among your comrades."
Nicholas is obviously stunned by the sudden outburst of Salrantol, and his creative yet a bit untruthful chattering.
I am sure, we all can get together and kill a dragon, right friendly folks from all around the globe?
Nicholas is even more stunned by his rather failed attempt at diplomacy, as most of the others just look at him with bland eyes.
[diplomacy: 1d20+23=24]
Maybe someone else would have to try and form a group out of this random assortment of individual heroes....
Next he looks at the Deva. While he only heard rumours about this rare race, he sees the totem that she carries and feels her connection to the primal spirits. To her he offers a slight nod with a growl of approval.
The paladin is for now a bit of a question mark for him. He claims to worship the god of civilization, but in Gorbans experience there are two kinds of worshippers of Erathis. Those who think that civilization needs to expand to every corner of the world, sacrificing the natural wild on the way and those who seek a balance between those two. It remains to be seen which of those types this halfelf will turn out to be.
Gorbans opinion on the Eladrin is also not fleshed out yet. Those twilight warriors usually have good relations to the natural world, but sometimes their otherworldly nature makes them detatched and distant-minded.
And finally the second half-elf, who interestingly tries to hide his true nature.(Perception=29) He seems to have some experience with dragons though and that could be helpful. (Insight=17) After his long speech he turns towards him and after a few seconds of staring into his eyes he simply adds: "You speak much."
But in any case, Gorban feels that this is his destiny and he will try his best to fit into this group. Turning to Philip he nods. "This is acceptable."
"Enough talk. We will go retrieve the item you request. And if we fail, then it is just as well: this team may not be well-suited for the task." What the tiefling does not say is that he has no intention of letting the opportunity to hunt so many dragons go by, no matter what the results of the trial mission, even if it means using extreme methods of... coersion... to pry the locations of the dragons away from Philip.
Tomorrow I should be able to type out more of the character sheet and backstory, at least get skills filled out more. I might even buy something like a bedroll or some rope :P
yes, information would be good, and maybe less chattering around would also be a good idea, else we might miss some of the important information.
Philip raised a quizzical eyebrow. This motely bunch was to take on dragons of unknown origin, strength, and numbers? If they were competent in the task, they did not look the part. Sure, they all looked hardened by travel, adventure, and experience, but he could only hope they could pull together when it really mattered. "Allow me to be blunt ... since you are not a guild, there is no liaison I can communicate or place liability with. Before I contract you for the Dragon bill, I need to know I can trust you ... ALL of you. This task is just to make sure I know you can work together to accomplish a goal."
He walked other to a nearby sidetable, and opened a small book. Within, was a thin piece of paper currently serving function as a bookmark. Philip tugged the book mark out and held it forward, not caring who took it in hand. "This is just an ingredient list for some arcane rituals. While normal, run-of-the-mill ingredients will suffice for merely running the ritual, as well as residuum, it is a fact that certain, more exotic, materials garner more potent, and sometimes unpredictable, results. It is a strange phenomenom we are attempting to stabilize in studies in our Wild Magic labs. The problem is that the ingredients are theoretical, and parts of beast that are not sold commonly, and therefore ot be hunted. Normally, one of the hunting guilds would take this job, but I think this small hunt will be sufficient to grade yourselves on your teamwork.
"The first item is the Skull of a Bone Naga. I think you can find some to the swamps south-west of Sagaris. The Noburo Swamps, I believe they are called. Naturally, I would prefer the creature dead. Second on the list are 3 primary feathers from a Sphinx. The primaries, by the way, are the large feathers on the outer edge of the wings. I do not know what sphinxes you know of, but I encountered on in Amlyn Desert on a site visit to the oasis it was guarding. The waters there never deplete, never taint, and cure all diseases and poisons. Truly a remarkable study. The sphinx though, please do not attack him ... I know he's a testy one who demands a gift, but that changes from person to person so you'll have to ask him what he wants. Its for the best so we do not lose that precious resource he guards. Finally, a pound of moss from the back of an earth giant. No doubt some live amongst the hill giants in the mountains west of here.Simple and straightforward no? There are even portal gates set up to zip you to the Swamp, Mountains, and the edge of the Desert, thanks to the Explorer's Guild. Any questions?"
*small pause*
Ah, yes. I suggest we just take the hoards as payment, and sell any interesting items to you?
I wonder, though... would it be necessary to fight the giants? How tempramental are they?
Also, Philip, could you tell us anything more about the naga and giants? Specifically, anything about how they fight.
Again, Jadorel's mostly interested in how effective her frost magic is against these creatures, so she's going to ask about what magic resistances they have.
Also, Huan, I sent you an updated character sheet for Jadorel. Could I get you to edit the character sheet post and put it in there, please?
He stepped over to a book entitled Delves & Dangers: Manual of Monsters, 4 example and flipped through a few pages, "Ah, lets see ... Earth titans.... under 'Earth'? No ... Under 'Titan'..? Huh? No entry for Titans? No, of course not, that would make too much sense... Let me check the glossary.... Ah, under Giant, eh? Well, I suppose that makes sense..."
He cleared his throat before speaking, "It looks like Earth Titans are your typical brutes, the type to close in and clobber you with their boulder-like hands. Looks like they often travel with a couple of Hill Giants, so I don't think such huge monsters would be hard to find, stomping around as they do. As for Naga.... it says here, that its is quite deadly in close combat, able to wither the very life of nearby foes with a swaying rattle of its tail. Forunately, if taken down like a normal undead, it should be each to handle. Reptilian folk tend to worship Naga, or at least be controlled by them, so I would expect those types to not be far. Perhaps one of the locals could tell you where one is located?"
Placing the book down, Philip crossed his arms, "Just in case any of you are afraid of lack of compensation, I can offer you this: First, information on the dragons and their hordes, to which I have exclusive information to, and I will be honest in explaining why. Second, a healthy gold reward proportional to all three tasks being completed. Fair enough, no?"
He falls into thought for a moment, then adds, "I can't seem to recall much about earth titans, though. I think they travel in the company of hill giants. And they like to hit things, so don't get hit. Oh, and don't get too close to the bone naga if you don't have to, they're pretty scary." Having incorporated what Philip told them about the titans seamlessly into what he could recall himself, he swept his arm towards the exit and asked, "Shall we be on our way to the Swamp Teleport then?"
Last chance to update equipment (I will update sheets accordingly, shortly); Go to the Sagaris Portal Hub when ready.
Well, my new companions... shall we be off?
No changes to character, aside from what I already PMed you. Also, I'm assuming I'd be able to change around my daily and utility spells now if I wanted, right?
Ready
Identifying Noburo Swamp, the small group headed to their proper terminal, making sure they were properly prepared, in both mind and equipment, and stepped through the portal. Not surprisingly there was no line to enter the Swamp's Portal, an so check-in was very quick. It was hardly surprising that such a noxious and dangerous swamp was not exactly a popular locale.
The portal's exit was inside the Hub's local office in the area. It was a small building on a flat piece of land. Surrounded by a protective barrier to prevent monster intrusion, it was minded only by a small staff who took note of the traveling party. At first they were surprised to see a visitor come in, much less six, but when seeing they were just adventurers, it was understood they were here for some purpose. A lackluster “Hello, welcome to Noburo Swamp” was issued by an attendant at the desk, and they turned their attention back towards shuffling some papers and sorting some pamphlets and maps.
Looking outside, there seemed to be an eternal heavy, gray fog blanketing the area, as the dark, dirty water was interrupted only by draping trees and thin pathways of questionable integrity. The adventurers could only hope the muddy paths would not give way and sink into the murky water of unknown depths. Greeting their noses with a foul smell of unknown origin, the party prepared their hunt.
He turned back to the attendant without missing a beat. "Well?? Out with it, man!"
Jadorel grabs a map and attempts to find a way through the swamp. Nature check 29 if she actually knows anything, Bluff check 18 if she's completely faking it.
However, Jadorel recalled something, now that he put some thought into the name 'Noburo Swamp.' There once was a story about a merchant who traded with monsters, and while the story progressed with him attempting to fool the monsters and getting eaten in the end, he recalled one of the characters in the prose was a Bone Naga. One of the stressed lines in the story noted how it lived in glorious temple, worshiped by other snakes and reptiles. He stepped over to a barrel, in which held many tightly bound copies of a local map. Picking one up, he unfurled it and looked for the nearest temple site. Recent or no, a temple was a temple, and while it did not matter which Bone Naga was currently residing, the point was there was one residing there currently. Slamming a finger down, and seeing its location was only a mile away from their current position, Jadorel was confident they would find a Bone Naga there.
Ash is more pushy than I'd be, but the defender with massive Nature and Perception seems like the natural choice here.
Without any better leads, Gorban accepts the Eladrins directions and starts leading them into the swamp. "Stay close. I dont want to lose anyone."
While navigating through the swamp he keeps his eyes open for tracks and any dangers they might face on the way.
(as Nicolas really does not know how to move stealthily {Stealth:1d20+8=16}, we might as well sing.
It took some time for Salrantol to transpose the song into the range of his half-elven voice, especially since the dwarven notation involves "axe" and "hammer" notes, which are inflectionary quirks most other races have difficulty making sound palatable. Normally, he tunes his cittern down a quarter-step to make it a bit easier on the ears, but he doubts his current audience is picky enough to notice the drops of the axes and hammers. It doesn't sound quite right, but is still a fine song by any standards save those of a dwarven skald, who would be highly insulted by the lack of axe notes in the performance.
Suddenly they all halted in place reflexively as soon as they heard a sharp roar resound in the thick air around them. No doubt about it, that did not sound like any lizardfolk native to the area. In all of their minds, they knew that this was the sound of a dragon. However, they were here to hunt a Bone Naga, so why was a Dragon here was well? Did Philip know this? Those questions and many more were put to a halt as they saw ahead the road was cut short by a fallen tree. However, barely visible through the arcing branches of oversized trees, they saw to the south stone ruins of some sort. With the dense canopy above, the entire area, the parts above murky water anyway, were cast in low light. Were this really the ruined temple, it was so far sunken into ruin it could barely be called a temple. Daring just a little further closer, the party saw the large, blackened scales of what most assuredly was a dragon. Horns wickedly curving forward, this dragon held them aimed at another nearby set of creatures: a Bone Naga and serpentine followers!
Seeing the threat above them, the group began to contemplate tactics quickly.
Most of the area is calm water that sinks down 3 sqs, area lighting is low light. There area few altars for cover,the heavy trees are improved cover but difficult terrain to move through. and the only solid ground is the grass, trees, dirt, and stone. Beyond that, you guys can wait a bit and see what's going on, make knowledge checks, move around a bit on the map, attack, or whatever.
In these close quarters, we're likely to be eating a lot of AoE damage. If y'all stick close for just a moment, I can throw up Resist Acid 5, which should help. Alternatively, I can give myself Resist Acid 15 and one adjacent ally Resist Acid 10. After that, though, we need to spead out as much as we can.
I have no useful knowledge skill... or stealth... or perception....
Also, if those pins are color-coded to our text colors, I'm wondering why Gorban isn't in the front, since he was walking in the front.
Salrantol stops playing his song with a start, tucking his cittern into his bag of holding. His main-gauche was all but jumping out of its scabbard, feeling the presence of the dragon. Salrantol slid it out cautiously, making sure not to let light glint off of it towards their newfound quarry, and also brought out his songblade, trailing dimly glowing notes in its wake, which quickly disappeared. "Keep your wits about you, lads. The dragon's got some tricks up his sleeve. Get your area attacks at the ready, for he likes to summon darkness around himself. I suggest we stay back and see if these are all friendly with each other before we get them all mad at us." Salrantol almost appeared a different person, much more businesslike, less bombastic. "Keep talking to each other, too, so we know what's coming."
We had best be ready for battle. I'm sure at least one of the sides will be unhappy to see us. But I agree with Salrantol, we had best make sure that one of them won't be an ally of some sort before we charge in.
Since I forgot to ask earlier... does Phillip expect us to gather all the materials in a single day, or do we plan on resting a night in the town after each reagent?
Also, Philip expected it to take a day or 2, but not too long at all.
The colors do belong to your text-choices, but for now you are all unnoticed by the enemies, so feel free to be wherever you want prior to the fallen tree.
[Bone Naga; Large immortal Magical Beast (undead)
Immune disease, poison; Resist 20 necrotic; Vulnerable 10 radiant
=Bite (standard; at-will) ✦ Necrotic
Reach 2; vs. AC; 2d4 + 6 damage, and ongoing 5 necrotic
damage (save ends). Aftereffect: The target is weakened (save
ends).
= Death Sway (standard; at-will) ✦ Necrotic
Close burst 3; blind creatures are immune; vs. Will; the
target is dazed (save ends). If the target is already dazed, it takes
2d6 + 6 necrotic damage instead.]
The shadowy snakes where a common escort to the Bone Naga, though they were normally the conniving sort to lay in ambush and strike. Shadowy and tough, these snakes were also resistant to the same vile toxic put forth by the bone naga, but did not share their weakness, making them ideal guards. Intermixing sneakiness and alacrity, these were fast and dangerous to contend with.
[Shadow Snake; Large Shadow Beast (reptile)
Resist 10 poison
= Bite (standard; at-will) ✦ Poison
Reach 2; vs. AC; 2d6 + 7 damage, and ongoing 10 poison
damage (save ends).
= Double Attack (standard; at-will) ✦ Poison
The shadow snake makes two bite attacks and shifts 1 square
before, between, or after the attacks.
= Shifting Shadowstrike (standard; encounter) ✦ Poison
The shadow snake shifts 7 squares and makes a bite attack
against two different targets at any points during its move.
= Vanish into the Night (standard; encounter)
The shadow snake gains the insubstantial and phasing qualities,
and is invisible in dim light, until the end of its next turn.]
Finally, the dragon itself seemed the unexpected dark horse, though Salrantol noted there was an identical statue nearby on an isolated piece of the half-sunken temple, and pondered the connection. However, what he knew of the Black Dragon was common enough. Though in its Young stage it was still quite dangerous, especially given how it was quite adept at swimming, and given the abundance of sludge and water here, it was in its element. It was all about acid, so getting in an acid contest with it would spell a loss for the challenger. On top of the signature breath weapon that could melt the flesh off off any adventurer's bones, the dragon could taint the moisture in the air itself, creating murky clouds impossible to see through except for being the dragon itself. Territorial and malicious, Salrantol knew it would be baring its tawny arms tipped with razor claws towards them all once it took notice.
[Young Black Dragon; Large natural Magical Beast (aquatic, dragon)
Resist 15 Acid
= Bite (standard; at-will) ✦ Acid
Reach 2; +10 vs. AC; 1d6 + 3 damage, and ongoing 5 acid
damage (save ends).
= Claw (standard; at-will)
Reach 2; +8 vs. AC; 1d4 + 3 damage.
= Double Attack (standard; at-will)
The dragon makes two claw attacks.
= Tail Slash (immediate reaction, when a melee attack misses the
dragon; at-will)
The dragon uses its tail to attack the enemy that missed it: reach
2; +8 vs. AC; 1d6 + 4 damage, and the target is pushed 1 square.
= Breath Weapon (standard; recharge ⚄ ⚅ ) ✦ Acid
Close blast 5; +7 vs. Refl ex; 1d12 + 3 acid damage, and the target
takes ongoing 5 acid damage and takes a –4 penalty to AC (save
ends both).
= Bloodied Breath (free, when first bloodied; encounter) ✦ Acid
The dragon’s breath weapon recharges, and the dragon uses it
immediately.
= Cloud of Darkness (standard; sustain minor; recharge ⚃ ⚄ ⚅ )
✦ Zone
Close burst 2; this power creates a zone of darkness that remains
in place until the end of the dragon’s next turn. The zone blocks
line of sight for all creatures except the dragon. Any creature
entirely within the area (except the dragon) is blinded.
= Frightful Presence (standard; encounter) ✦ Fear
Close burst 5; targets enemies; +5 vs. Will; the target is stunned
until the end of the dragon’s next turn. Aftereffect: The target
takes a –2 penalty to attack rolls (save ends).]
Jadorel leered at the circumstance. Black Dragons were known to live in swamps, polluting the water and lurking in their tainted depths. However, dragons were inherently solitary creatures barring rare circumstances. This, while unusual, did not seem to be a trying circumstance. Rather, the bone naga, typically associated with lesser reptilians, was almost controlling the dragon itself. Naga were, after all, infamous for their psychic manipulation and lures. However a dragon, even a young adult one like this, was likely too strong-willed for that. It was all too strange and displaced. Either way, it spelled trouble.
Tactically speaking, both the Naga and the Dragon were in their element. Namely, the water surrounding the entire area. Swamp water like this was also notorious for housing leeches within that latched on to travelers unknowingly and slowly, but surely, sucked their lifeblood away. Such leeches never bothered creatures like the Nagas and Dragon, furthering their advantage. Given the small amount of solid ground, the party saw the disadvantage, not to mention the noticeable breaks of ground adjacent to the stone or mud, marking underwater tunnels that were likely well-known exit and entry points to the creatures here.
Speaking of whom, Salrantol noted something more subtle about the way the Naga and Dragon were interacting.Though he could not hear what they were saying, he could see through their actions, stances and movements that it looked like the Naga, while playing it cautiously, was instructing the dragon, or perhaps informing it, based on the relaxed, yet powerful, way the dragon was focusing on the Naga. It did not seem at ends with it, and, at best, seemed cooperative.
I revise my offer: I can hand out necrotic or poison resistance instead of acid.
note: i already have resist 10 against dragon breath attacks.
secondary note: wrath of the gods (flat +6 damage) seems to be my best daily option for this fight, so if i should use it, we need to stay together for a start.
Perception(Eyes of the Eagle): 1d20+30=41
To Sir Nicholas he says: "You take that undead monster. I´ll try to cover as many of the snakes as possible."
Even tough he didnt form this as a question, he waits for an approval. Then he positions himself in the front of the group, ready for action.
@MWB: Resistance to poison is probably the smartest choice here.
Quick rule question, do area spells have a hit penalty against concealed targets?
As for your light, sister - it possibly is not strong enough to dampen a dragons darkness. Sir Nicholas shudders as he says those words, as if he remembers something from his past.
rules answer: no. only cover applies vs. area attacks, not concealment.
I'll probably drop the spirit of Dawn daily to negate the darkness ... or rather I'm not sure how that would work ...
Anyone else going: 'man those dragon attacks are no threat as listed'
I'm assuming that this swamp counts as dim or no light without a light source of our own, yes? Also, I'm assuming I can't cast a light spell on a creature (description says any object or unoccupied square in range).
@wb: For heaven's sake, man, use [color=gray], not [color=grey], unless you really like using lime green.
@mwb, i do have absolutely no clue what you are talking about.
Ah, I see, it's an IE thing. Firefox and Safari display "grey" as gray, but IE displays it as lime green--the same as Jadorel's character color. For the sake of us using IE, please use the American rather than the British spelling.
I like Frostburn to slow them down a bit, while we work on ranged attacks to press them to close. None of them have an attack with a range greater than 3, so that's to our advantage. I was going to recommend we eliminate the dragon quickly, but then I remembered: if you're in the dragon's cloud, you're immune to the death sway. :D Although, I'm worried enough about the death sway that my gut says chain-Vicious Mockery and Enfeebling Strike for the super-lockdown on the naga.
as for the spelling, even parts of the US use "grey", as well as your fellow canadian neighbours. ever wondered why those busses run under the name of greyhound with an e?
Well then, go on, Salrantol. I'll keep my eye on you, both now and in the things to come.
(and as it seemed to all those others hearing him, he meant far worse things than a naga.)
Not, HP or maybe 'Life Vitality' really isn't something a Knowledge check would convey.
I will allow you guys to ambush, so you may each make a suprrise standard action. Once you decide we will begin combat.
Jadorel will cast Blood Pulse centered on square 16,29; the dragon, naga, and two of the snakes should be caught in the burst. (Note the extra damage they take if they move.)
She'll also use the Bolstering Blood paragon path feature, dealing 2d10 to herself and the same to any enemy damaged by the attack.
Can I delay in the surprise round? ... so I get to pick my init in round 1? based upon my allies
Assuming that Gorban can start at 8/10 at the start of the suprise round:
While his colleagues start their fire on their enemies, Gorban starts channeling the spirits of the earth into his body and under his hide they start transforming his flesh into stone plating while his feet connect more firmly to the ground than ever before.
"Let them come!"
Using Form of the Stonecrusher
my basic idea would be to drop wrath (so stay close first),
then r1 challenge the naga, throw a javelin at her and wait for her to close in. depending on initiative and positioning, wrath might not be a good idea however.
would be nice to have blood pulse go off after wrath...
Beyond that, any positioning that puts something big, strong, and with a lot of HP in front of me is fine, so long as I'm still in range to cast my spell.
Shadowsong: Delay
Sir Nicholas: Wrath of the Gods
Ash: Comrades' Mantle (poison)
Gorban: Form of the Stonecrusher
Salrantol: Ready Vicious Mockery
Jadorel: Blood Pulse
Locations:
Gorban: 6, 9
Sir Nicholas: 6, 8
Salrantol: 6, 7
Ash: 5, 8
Jadorel: 5, 9
Shadowsong: 5, 7
Dragon - 31
Shadowsong - 29
Salrantol - 25
Jadorel - 23
Naga - 22
Sir Nicholas - 21
Snakes x3 - 20
Gorban - 15
Ash - 13
Blood Pulse on Dragon/Naga/Snake1/ Snake2, 36/30/42/27 vs Will, (All hit: 25 dmg + 17 Psychic Dmg + 1d6 per square left until End of Jadorel's Next Turn)
Clenching a fist tightly, Jadorel squeezed until blood began to seep between his fingers. Using that to weave a sickening disc of plasma overheard, he hurled it over the soggy logs and leech-filled waters of the swamp and overhead the unsuspecting foes. Detonating in mid-air, tendrils of solidified blood lanced down, spearing the enemies below in place. Brief though they were, the creatures knew in the back of their mind how painful it would be to move and snap away the spears of blood rained down upon them.
Dragon uses Cloud of Darkness. The area within the rounded square is blocking all LOS, and both Shadow Snakes within are Blinded.
Shrieking in retaliation, the young dragon, barely older than a wyrmling of its color, shook its head and began exhaling a thick cloud of impenetrable dark smoke. Though they did not know what was going on beyond the cloak of darkness, the adventurer's did not hear any more cries of pain, possibly signifying that the beast did not move.
Naga: HP - 42; Blood Pulse
Dragon: HP - 42; Blood Pulse
Snake1: HP - 42; Blood Pulse
Snake2: HP - 42; Blood Pulse
Snake3: HP Full
Clenching a fist tightly, Jadorel squeezed until blood began to seep between his fingers. Using that to weave a sickening disc of plasma overheard, he hurled it over the soggy logs and leech-filled waters of the swamp and overhead the unsuspecting foes. Detonating in mid-air, tendrils of solidified blood lanced down, spearing the enemies below in place. Brief though they were, the creatures knew in the back of their mind how painful it would be to move and snap away the spears of blood rained down upon them.
Bah! She! Jadorel's a chick...
Also, how much damage did she do to herself?
Shadowsong, its your turn ... all of you guys feel free to do your own rolls, especially since I know some of you may want to combo feats or abilities onto them.
I am going to TRY and post more than once a day so combat goes smoother.
Did you want to delay until after a specific person, or just wait and post when ready? I'm fine with either, but I want to make sure.
Tensing up and focusing intently, the intrepid adventurers maintained their positions, assuming the roles of hunters waiting for the precise moment to strike swiftly and decisively. Known to all, it would have been folly to fumble and attempt at slaying a dragon, even one so young, but this was enemy territory, and it was vital to stay calm and not rush things.
Regardless, the smoke was thick and nigh-impenetrable visually. They did not hear any scuffling or the sound of water being broken, so unless the enemies were especially stealthy, which as likely, they probably did not move and were waiting to assess the situation of their ambushers as well.
Naga will delay until Dragon's turn; When the snakes come up, they will delay as well, putting all enemies on the same turn.
Reflex 33. If that hits, it deals 30 fire damage and Ash gains 5 temp HP.
Sir Nicholas ranged, 19 -2 range -5 total concealment = 12 vs AC ?? (miss)
Yes, charge forth for your queen ... die for me! Show me your power in battle ...
In Common, there was a faint hiss in the air, with a voice hollow in a menacing tone that rang from within the depths of the skull of the Naga. In addition, the adventurers heard a large splash of water in the distance, but only one. Bursting through the black fog, came three puffs, but there was nothing to be seen, nor anything to be heard. However, the wind began to whisper strange secrets into his ear, suggesting to him that the trio of foes were invisible and before them on the path, but where, was not for sure. He looked around quickly, seeing if anyone else caught the subtlety, but he saw Shadowsong was the only one, as her spirit companion seemed to whisper the same, confirming their suspicions.
Gorban and Shadowsongs' passive Perception notice the Invisible snakes x3's Stealthed presence and general direction (ahead on path), but do not beat it enough to pinpoint location.
A second, much heavier splash echoed in the water in the distance, just in time for the unforgiving thick smog to disperse, showing a quiet in empty ruinscape. Of course, the adventurers were not so naive to not presume what was going on, but as they tightened their guards and readied their blows, the silence of the swamp encroached further ...
Naga: HP - 42
Dragon: HP - 42
Snake1: HP - 42
Snake2: HP - 42
Snake3: HP Full
active perception 26
move to 12/8
Sir Nicholas steadies himself against the impeding attacks, looking out for anything else that might be there {active perception: 27} drops his magically returned javelin and draws his sword.
Beware Dragon, for this sword has killed the likes of you for Millenia!
Regardless, if the snakes are still invisible during Jadorel's next turn, do the following: Take out a gold coin (minor action, I believe), cast Light on the coin (minor as well), and make a ranged basic attack using the coin as an improvised ranged weapon. The effect will be that the coin emits bright light for a 4-square radius.
If I can tell approximately where the snakes are, toss the coin so it lands in that general area. If I can't tell where it is, target the square 6 East, 8 South from Jadorel's position.
If the snakes become visible before Jadorel's turn, instead use Ray of Frost against whatever one is hurt the most.
I can try to light up where they are... but if any of you can tell me where to look, it'll be easier.
Minor: Manifest Spirit of the Dawn at Hor: 12, Vert 16
Basically an 11x11 burst that my allies ignore any cover, or conealment, and all enemies take -5 on stealth checks (which may give some people hits on their perception checks)
Move: to 8,8
Free: Summon Spirit Companion at Hor: 9, Vert 13
Please accept a refund of credits from my own account, as a way of apology, and I hope went I come back I can make it up to everyone here and COCO.
Down but not out,
-Huan
Best wishes to you, and when you recover, I would be interested in attempting this campaign once again.