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General => Play-By-Forum => Graveyard => Topic started by: Xander Morhaime on June 20, 2010, 08:09

Title: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 20, 2010, 08:09
The campaign against the Evil Overlord that had been plaguing the realm was a long and difficult one. You'd faced down and slain a number of his lieutenants, thwarted more than a few of his nefarious schemes. In the end, your path brought you to foot of the Overlord's last stronghold.

The land around was inhospitable to say the least, tall, steep mountains and sparse vegetation - and the Dark Tower looming over the whole countryside. A narrow stone walkway over a deep chasm led up to the gate, though curiously enough nobody tried to shoot you off as you approached. With storm clouds gathering overhead, you quickly decided that trying to climb the outside of the tower was a poor idea, and opted instead for going in through the front door. The door itself, though solid, eventually yielded with some persuasion of the forceful kind.

The chamber immediately beyond the gate served as a lobby, no doubt. It was quite spacious and well lit, with a raised floor closer to the opposite wall, with a short flight of stairs leading up onto it. Further along, you could see the main stairwell leading up into the tower proper. There were two large pillars holding up the tall ceiling here, one on either side of the room, and eight large braziers around the room providing a good amount of light.

Of course, the room wasn't entirely unpopulated either. At the foot of the small stair, you saw a trio of short, brown-skinned, goblin-like creatures, huddled together and blocking the approach to the stairs. They were covered in crude hides for armour, and each had a long spear that was pointing in your general direction. They weren't the only problem, however. What you initially thought were more braziers quickly turned out to be more of the odd goblins - red skinned this time, and seemingly lit from inside by an inner fire - as they stepped up to the edge of the raised platform and greeted you warmly - with a voley of small fireballs called up from their hands. Three of them smacked into Tristan, who'd been walking in front, causing very severe burns, a fourth hit Ma'kirr, also causing some serious damage, though the fifth missed the monk by a fair margin.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on June 21, 2010, 11:03
"Oh come now! That was just cheap!" Aden was surprised, like his comrades were, by the sudden attack. "Saliak! Patch him up! I'll draw their attention!" Aden then moves off to the left, going for cover behind the pillar, and shouting at the goblins: "Over here, you ugly bastards!" Aden then prepares for the fireballs.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 21, 2010, 13:54
The brown goblins seemed to take a bait - all three of them rushed forward from the stair and towards the pillar where Aden had taken cover, two of them going straight for him, the third carefully flanking around the firebowl, keeping an eye on the rest of the party.

With shouts of "Smash!", "Kill!", and other such examples of wit, the two creatures attacked Aden. The first knocked him off his feet with a sweep of his spear, the other lunged at him, but the spear merely scraped off a few sparks off the pillar. The third, for the time being, settles on threateningly pointing his spear in the general direction of the rest of the party.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 21, 2010, 16:26
"I agree. these guys dont play nice at all, but then again..." Ma'kirr quickly bounded behind the group of goblins, " neither do I."
With an open palm she struck the ground causing a short and violent tremor. The enemies around her soon found themselves standing on unsteady ground.
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on June 22, 2010, 04:50
"Please do your best to dodge in the future, Tristan. The Runes are only so powerful." Saliak moves into range for his runes to have maximum effect, tracing the runes along the edge of his shield before smashing his hammer down into the nearest enemy.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 22, 2010, 05:40
- Oh Lolth, annoying as always. - Ryltar strides forward and points at fire-thrower in front of him, summoning inborn drow magic, then draws five shuriken in one fluid motion and starts juggling them - Hey look, a trick! - he shouts just as one of shuriken flies toward his chosen target.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 22, 2010, 10:34
Only one of the speargoblins was hit by Ma'Kirr's attack, but that one at least got heavily clobbered, knocked prone and thrown around. Saliak also had some success, smacking the third speargoblin over the head... though it only seemed to make it angrier as it shook the damage off in short order. Ryltar's magic caused dark flames to flare up around the central firethrower - for a moment. Then flames from the creature's body licked out and consumed the magical flame, leaving the firethrower with a triumphant grin on its face.

Then the shuriken hit it in the face, and the red goblin fell flat on its back, its legs twitching in the air for a few moments more.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on June 22, 2010, 12:28
'Avandra, guide my sword against the impure!' shouted Tristan, rushing at closest brownie with his sword raised high above his head. He brought it down on the creatures head with full force. Immediately, Ma'Kirr felt... safer. Freeing his hand for a moment, he reached to touch Ma'Kirr's back, to bring her some relief from her wounds.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 22, 2010, 14:40
The goblin received another smack on the head - this time it seemed to leave a more permanent mark on the little creature, but it was proving surprisingly tough. Despite the, for lack of a better term, blood running down its face, it still held its ground bravely.

The red ones on top of the raised area ran around, apparently panicked for a moment by the death of one of their own, but quickly took up new firing positions and sent another volley of miniature fireballs your way. This time, though, they all missed their mark, leaving harmless scorch marks on the floor in front of Ryltar and Tristan.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on June 23, 2010, 05:34
Aden, of course, is obviously a little shaken at being knocked down, but he doesn't show it. "Why you-You're going to pay for that! One way or another!" Aden pulls himself up, and then swings his Longsword at the goblin next to him. He's a little shaky, but it looks good.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 23, 2010, 13:09
The blow looked set to strike the goblin, but at the last moment one of its fellows helped turn it aside with a timely-placed spear blade.

The goblins in turn struck back. The one that Ma'Kirr had brought down jumped to his feet, stabbing at the monk in retaliation, inflicting a nasty injury and forcing the shifter towards the pillar. The one that Aden had barely missed tried to assist with the monk and trip her up, but she proved too agile for that. Saliak, on the other hand... the big Dragonborn was brought down to ground level with a quick sweep of a goblin's pike.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 23, 2010, 14:11
Rather put off by the goblin's aggressiveness, Ma'kirr took a step back. In immediate retaliation, she struck out rapidly against the nearest foes, pressing them with a flurry of blows. With the goblins thoroughly admonished, Ma'kirr took advantage of their recovery to move out of range.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 23, 2010, 14:26
The goblin looked badly injured by the most recent assault, but it was still standing. Barely.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on June 23, 2010, 16:22
With a deep grunt, Saliak picks himself up and straightens his armor. "I suppose I asked for that, hitting you so hard. Let us try again, but harder this time."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 23, 2010, 16:52
- Thank you, thank you! - Ryltar bows letting fireballs fly over him then streightens back up.
- And now for another trick! - he takes a step forward, drawing his rapier, skewers the goblin Ma'kirr moved around and grins - I call it... 'The Backstab'. It always kills the audience.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on June 23, 2010, 17:01
'Die, foul creature!' yells Tristan, striking at the goblin in front of him.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 23, 2010, 18:09
The brown goblin, stabbed clean through by Ryltar's rapier, collapsed to the floor... and then apparently collapsed in on itself, its body seemingly drawn into a single point with a brief flash... all that was left to mark its place was its fallen spear and a little glowing sphere of yellowish colour, hovering a foot or two off the ground. The goblin under attack by the paladin, on the other hand, still stood despide the pounding it had received. Just barely, but it still managed to stay upright.

In response to the Drow's display of "rapier" wit, a chorus of boos and hisses came from the raised gallery - followed shortly by another volley of fireballs, half aimed at the Drow, the other half at the monk. Only one managed to hit Ma'Kirr, though, and left minor burns.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on June 24, 2010, 04:48
Aden of course wonders about the goblin that just disappeared llike that, but quickly puts his mind back into battle. "Saliak! Try and get over next to this guy in front of me! I'll see if I can't give you an opprotunity!" Aden then tries and brings His sword upside the goblins head, but it's not promising. "Damn! Now I'm whiffing like my brother! He never did practice his form...grr..."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 24, 2010, 08:55
The goblin easily ducked Aden's blow, and then came back with its own spear. The thrust struck well, inflicting a serious injury, and the goblin pressed its advantage, forcing Aden back at spear-point and following him. His companion, despite his injuries, also seemed determined to leave a lasting mark on the heroes, lunging out at Tristan and also scoring an excellent hit, the force of the blow knocking the paladin back. Then it promptly moved back towards the pillar and its companion.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 24, 2010, 10:10
That was second time today her fur had been burned, which was 2 times too many. Reeling to get a fix on her targets, she spotted them up on a ledge. With amazing speed, she whipped up the stairs and  into one of the Goblin Firethrowers. Having impaled him on the spot, she immediately gave the other one a rapid succession of kicks, sending him flying backwards.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on June 25, 2010, 04:11
Saliak glanced over towards the goblins crowding around Aden. The spacing might be just right... His eyes close and he pulls upon his inner resolve. If he had any hair on his body, it would be standing on end.

"Bahumat sends his greetings, Goblins..."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 25, 2010, 04:27
- Give 'em hell kitty-cat! - drow shouted upon seeing Ma'Kirr massacre firethrowers then turned back to closer threats - there was an occasion for taking another stab at the problem. Maby even two...

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 25, 2010, 15:01
The impaled red goblin thrashed on the end of a spear for a moment before the fire that seemed to burn within it got out, incinerating the creature in a flash of light and heat. Not a pleasant sensation for someone holding said goblin on the end of a stick, but nothing harmful at least. All that remained of the creature was a few cinders, and a tiny fiery-red sphere of light that hovered on the point of the spear for a moment before dropping off to the floor below.

By that time, of course, the other goblin had been kicked off the ledge and slammed against the pillar, sliding down - the flames overtook it as well, leaving a charred stain along the pillar and another of the fiery spheres on the floor below. Ma'Kirr might notice there was a third such sphere near the top of the stairs - no doubt left over from the firethrower Ryltar had slain.

Saliak's efforts did not have the desired result, however. Perhaps Bahamut was looking the other way that time. The lightning breath arced towards the pike of the healthier of the two brown goblins, giving it a nasty shock, but not much in the way of serious damage. The fire blast that came immediately after only singed their armour. They'd just begun to yell something insulting at the Dragonborn when Ryltar's blow caught the already weakened minion's throat, sending it sprawling to the ground. A few moments later it shared the fate of its companions, the only trace of it being an off-yellow sphere of light hovering a little off the floor.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on June 25, 2010, 16:12
'Wondrous work, servants of Light!' exclaims Tristan, while pointing his blade in the direction of one of the remaining brownies. 'I challenge you!' he yells, hoping to coerce the creature to charge at him, thus giving him the opportunity to strike at it.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 25, 2010, 17:08
The brown goblin seemed unimpressed, and took a brief break from keeping his spear stuck in Aden's side to hold out his arm with the middle claw extended towards the paladin.

The firethrowers in turn shifted around again at the top of the stair, letting loose another volley of fireballs. This time Saliak was the only one to receive any significant burns, the other shot flying over Tristan's head.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on June 27, 2010, 04:39
Aden had reached the breaking point. With a scream of rage, Aden swings his sword brutally at the goblin "I HAVE HAD ENOUGH OF YOU! BE GONE!" He was so insenced that he managed to get another swing in before anyone knew what happened.


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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 27, 2010, 05:24
With those two pests gone, Ma'kirr sighed with relief. Turning around she saw the last two of the welcoming committee back up apprehensively. Grinning, she bounded towards the remaining goblins. Leaping past the first and closing in between the two, she thrust her spear into the farthest goblin. Using the still materialized gobiln as an anchor, she delivered a powerful kick to the remaining goblins throat.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 27, 2010, 06:30
Though heavily battered and bloodied, the brown goblin remained standing, and looked more than a little peeved off. It seemed determined to get back at Aden, but this time the spear point slid harmlessly off his armour, and in turn the goblin was wracked with pain from the magical compulsion Tristan had placed on it.

Up on the raised platform, Ma'Kirr swiftly dispatched the remaining firethrowers, which left only the badly wounded brown goblin the only enemy combatant remaining... and it was starting to have difficulty standing.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on June 27, 2010, 06:48
"Bahumat is better at speaking through others at times, it seems. Well spoken, Ryltar. Perhaps this shall aid if my words fail me once more." A lone rune glows brightly on the handle of Saliak's hammer, and he steps over towards the Goblin, swinging it downwards.


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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 27, 2010, 07:02
The blow struck the goblin square on the head, though for a few moments it seemed like it might remain standing.

Then it collapsed to the floor, its remains turning to a sphere of yellowish light, just like all the others. The tower lobby was now quiet, save for the crackling of the fires in the braziers.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 27, 2010, 07:11
Ah a flawless battle! - Ryltar comments seemingly oblivious to burns and slashes others took and goes to recover shuriken he thrown earlier - Nothing to profit from in it sadly.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 27, 2010, 07:19
Ma'kirr leans against the nearby brazier to catch her breath. "Well that was some welcoming party huh?"
Noticing Ryltar picking up his shuriken, she ponders a moment, "Oye! Ryltar, how many of those do you have?"

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on June 27, 2010, 07:25
Saliak walks over to the stairs to stand beneath them, checking over his armor and shield. "I think this might have been your fastest dispatching of our enemies that I have seen from you, Ma'Kirr. Your skills seemed to have improved."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on June 27, 2010, 07:49
With sigh of relief, Tristan fell on his knees.

'Praised be Avandra, for granting us this victory against the forces of Darkness!' he said, raising his armoured hands high. He lowered his voice, and prayed for a few minutes. Finally, he stood up, and approached Ma'Kirr.

'Feline Lady, are you wounded?' he asked. 'Do you need help?'

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 27, 2010, 18:26
"Oh I'm fine. But let me warn you: Next time you decide to 'touch' me during a fight and you don't tell me beforehand, you will lose that hand. Keep it in mind." Ma'kirr replied with a wry smile on her face. And I swear, if he tries to cop a feel, he will more than the hand...
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on June 28, 2010, 01:29
"Bah." Aden slumped on the pillar "That was horrible. Seriously, what happened to me that battle? I was fighting like my brother up until the end...Damnit Aden, get yourself in check!" He gets off the pillar and says "So, I know it's an obvious question, but, what now? I say we rest a bit longer and head up the stairs."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on June 28, 2010, 04:31
"Does anyone have any idea what these sphere are? Odd to see these creatures not leave proper corpses. Perhaps something to do with their Master's choice of God?" Saliak carefully peered into one of the reddish globes left behind by a firethrower.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 28, 2010, 04:47
"Good question..." Ma'kirr replied. Grabbing one of the dropped spears, she poked one of the spheres left behind.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 28, 2010, 17:07
The little ball of light looked rather unremarkable upon closer inspection - at least as far as levitating lights can look normal. It fluctuated slightly every now and then, but aside from that it refused to do anything remotely interesting of its own accord.

At Ma'kirr's poking, the light shivered for a moment, actually deflecting a bit from its current hover spot by the touch of the sphere. It seemed to stick to the blade of the spear, but once that was taken away, it resumed hovering in its original spot as if nothing had happened.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 28, 2010, 23:19
"Well they don't seem to be harmful at least." While the others were deciding what to do next, Ma'kirr placed the red orb in one of her pouches. Noticing the orbs below were of a different hue, she went to retrieve one of them as well.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on June 30, 2010, 03:47
"Agreed. This may simply be the result of some sort of pact they have with a highly magical being. Or perhaps something more. We shall have to investigate this as we progress further. Do be careful though, Ma'Kirr. It would be most upsetting if the keeper of this tower was able to somehow resurrect these creatures from their orbs and we simply took him more ammunitions. That being said, I agree that studying them should be advantageous." Saliak completes checking over his armor and weapons, and turns to the others. "I am rested sufficiently. Shall we proceed?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on June 30, 2010, 06:46
"I'm ready" Aden says with a stern look. He looks at the other members "how about you all?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 30, 2010, 14:10
The stairs leading up into the tower proper did not seem terribly inviting - mostly on account of the smell wafting down from the higher levels, and the darkened sections of stair between each landing and turn. Still, your ultimate prize lay at the top, and so you began the ascent.

The stairwell was quite large and spacious, moving from one flat platform to the next, always turning to the right. The platforms themselves were lit by statues of demons holding braziers in their claws, and what light got in through the windows - through them you could see the dark clouds gathering around the tower, lit by the occasional flash of lightning, and could see the rain falling down. Each window also meant a momentary reprieve from the stench that increased in strength the higher you went. On the inner corner of each landing, there was also a statue of a figure in armour bearing a weapon - the design of the armour, and that of the weapon varied between the statues, though.

The smell, reminding you of rotting flesh and fish heads, was getting almost overpowering when you found two pairs of glowing yellow eyes watching you from the top of the next stair, and found a pair of spears pointed down in your general direction. Two more of the phalanx goblins stood there, barring your way further up the tower, and looking quite braced for defence.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 30, 2010, 14:33
- More of these, eh? - Ryltar moves to the center of nearby landing and points at one phalanxs who gets suddenly lit by halo of purple lights - You, yes you! Care to help me? Catch!

Yet another time the drow opens up with a shuriken throw.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on June 30, 2010, 18:37
"I shall attempt to draw their attention, there may be more to this than we are aware of. Tread carefully." The dragonborn's mouth starts to crackle as he steps towards the goblins.


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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 01, 2010, 07:37
The goblin was hit in the throat with the shuriken - and if that wasn't bad enough, while it scrabbled to pull the sharp bit of metal out, both of them got hit by a lightning blast from the dragonborn. It didn't leave much of an impression on the other goblin, but the one with the shuriken still in its throat looked a bit worse for wear.

Then things got a bit more hectic.

A shape detached from the shadows behind the nearest fire-bearing statue, leaping at Ryltar. It looked a fair deal like the brown goblins, though uglier, smellier, and green in colour. It also didn't appear too competent a fighter, as it missed its attack... but in doing so, distracted the drow while a second of the green creatures emerged from the shadows right next to the rogue. Before he could blink, the goblin's handblade had pierced his armour and he felt a nasty burning sensation around the wound - poison, no doubt.

Two more of the creatures leapt from the alcoves lining the stairs where the brown goblins stood, turning their attention on Saliak. One had briefly landed on the dragonborn's back, giving him a nasty cut for his troubles. The other again took advantage of the distraction, finding a chink in the runepriest's armour and sinking his blade in there, intense pain shooting through Saliak's body from the combination of a stab wound and the poison on the blade.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 03, 2010, 05:00
"Ambush! Should have saw this coming...! Saliak!" Aden decides to do what he does best: Pep talks. Aden breathes in deep, and concentrates on his voice. "Saliak! Show your Valor, and do not be cowed by their blows! You are one of the proud race of Dragonborn, and these lowly fools have no sway over your actions! Have faith, for I shall distract them in order for you to get into a more advantageous position!" Aden then moves in and this allows Saliak to sort of shift around to get out of the goblin sandwich and then he attempts a strike. It goes poorly, but at least Saliak can continue fighting.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 03, 2010, 08:13
  Before Ma'kirr could warn her allies, they charged head first into a trap. Bloodthirsty little idiots, she thought, while eying Saliak. Ok, not quite so little.... Looking over at Tristan, she noticed him stiff with surprise. "Hey, Knight Boy. Stop standing there and give Ryltar a hand."
  Leaping into the fray, Ma'kirr took several blows from the goblins. Fresh blood running down her arm sent a wave of exhilaration through her body. One moment she was normal and the next her body erupted with fur and markings that were not present before. Her face too had become more bestial though still retaining a human like appearance. As she landed she stuck the ground, bowling over her opponents.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 03, 2010, 18:55
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 03, 2010, 21:03
((Covering for Gargulec. I bring you Tristan))

  "Oh! Yes milady." quickly Tristan moved in to help Ryltar with the vain hope that the act would bring him onto Ma'kirr's good graces. Approaching the last standing goblin, he readied his sword.
  "Now foul creature, lets see how you fare against an aware opponent." He taunted.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 04, 2010, 17:42
The green creatures seemed a lot harder to pin down than the others previously encountered, weaving and dodging away from blows to strike from a different quarter. However, despite her sustained injuries, Ma'kirr put their dodging on a momentary hold, smashing three of the wretched-smelling things to the floor. She did it so well, in fact, that one of the creatures stopped moving entirely and soon all that remained of it was a sphere of glowing green light. And, unfortunately, the smell.

The pike-soldiers, taking advantage of the confusion of the ambush, took the opportunity to charge in, focusing their attacks on Saliak and Ma'kirr, knocking both off their feet and leaving them badly injured - the monk in particular. Finally, in all the confusion, yet another of the green creatures had somehow managed to appear behind your ranks and leapt on Aden's back, delivering a painful stab before jumping off.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 04, 2010, 18:02
- Ow! I forgot how much pain hurts! - drow quickly draws his rapier and lets loose series of stabs at one of creatures lying on floor near him, which somehow manages to avoid all but one of them.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 04, 2010, 20:54
Landing only one blow out of three might have been furstrating, but sometimes just the one blow was enough - the creature thrashed about for a few moments when Ryltar's blade pinned it to the ground, then grew still, soon following the now-familiar pattern and collapsing into a sphere of greenish light.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on July 05, 2010, 07:56
The Dragonborn considers his sudden view of the ceiling. This is most unfortunate. That smell will have to be dealt with, and swiftly. Shaking out his scales, Saliak stands up. With a glance at Ma'kirr, a bright gold rune solidifies itself on her armor. Turning, he addresses one of the small green creatures...with his warhammer.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 05, 2010, 08:41
Despite the grievous injuries inflicted upon it, the remaining assassin got to its feet again. However, its injuries seem to have taken a toll on its abilities, as it missed Saliak quite horribly. The Sneak that Tristan had singled out fared no better, its blade glancing off the paladin's shield harmlessly.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 06, 2010, 03:25
"Aghh! Damnation! This golbin bastard is-" Aden then notices the gravely wounded Ma'kirr. "Ma'Kirr! Rise! feel the energy from within! Do not be stopped by such weak blows! You can't be a legend if they take you down now!" and then Aden whirls around "Now back to you...HUUUAAAHHH!!!" Aden brings his sword around in a way reminiscent of a hurricane, Some extra oomph is put behind this one, as Aden spins around almost lightning fast, giving the goblin no chance to dodge.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 06, 2010, 03:57
Taking advantage of Saliak's distraction, she moved behind the brown goblins. Vitality coursed through her as her allies granted her strength.
Lets see how you like being tossed about you little brown f****... she thought violently. With catlike grace, she tore at their backs. Flinging one of them towards the shadowy recesses of the stairwell's walls, she took a look around the area for any more sneaking enemies.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 06, 2010, 04:09
((Tristan's Turn))

The goblin locked in combat with Tristan missed pitifully, sneaking to the side. Hearing Aden cry out, he turned to his relief, to see him smite another goblin quite thoroughly.
"Come on you vile creature. Is that best you can do?" He taunted again, circling around to the goblins wounded ally. With a swift strike he tried to finish off the goblin, but the creatures unsteady legs allowed it to dodge his blow.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 06, 2010, 08:48
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The green creature that had tried to attack from the rear was momentarily overwhelmed by the rain of Aden's blows, reducing it to a faintly-glowing green mush. The two brown creatures were also badly battered by Ma'kirr's attacks, leaving them noticeably worse for wear. Tristan's blow missed its mark, however, and the creature darted away to seek cover in the confusion of the melee. The spear-goblins retaliated then, one stabbing out at Aden, the force of the blow pushing him out away from the main crowd of fighters, while the other turned its attention to Ma'kirr, once more knocking the monk off her feet and inflicting more serious injuries.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 07, 2010, 03:10
- Make way, coming through - Ryltar moved past Tristan, Salik and the monster they were flanking, circled into space that Aden's kill freed up and stabbed one of Phalanx soldiers.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on July 07, 2010, 07:54
"The battle goes well, comrades. Duplicity on the battlefield cannot overcome us. Press on!" Saliak spared a grim look for the green creature who had earlier sunk a blade into his flesh. The best way to deal with a lack of honor in his limited experience with it, was flame. He swung his hammer in an odd fashion in the air, and struck the ground.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 07, 2010, 11:52
The creatures screamed as the flames overtook them, two of them collapsing to the ground moments later. This left only one pike-goblin and one of the green creatures still standing. The green one, at least, seemed determined to leave a mark, its blows finally finding a chink in Tristan's armour.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 07, 2010, 13:30
Aden notices that's he's claimed one, and then that the enemy is few in number. "Beautiful, we're almost done here." He moves next to the sneak, and attempts to land a strike, and maybe even inspire Saliak to attempt another one. Sadly, it seems unlikely.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 07, 2010, 17:17
This was the second time today Ma'kirr found herself looking at the ceiling thus making her doubly mad. With her body rapidly mending self with the help of her companions, she sprang back to her feet once more. Lashing out with her spear she knocked over the nearest goblin and proceeded to beat-the-crrrap of him.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 07, 2010, 17:28
((Tristan's Turn))

Seeing Ma'kirr fall for a second time brought worry to Tristan's face. Unfortunately that moment of worry cost him a hit from the nearby goblin. Whirling around he struck it swiftly across the face.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 07, 2010, 20:41
While Tristan quickly and cleanly dispatched the smelly green creature, Ma'kirr's target was dead by the time it hit the ground... not that it seemed to stop her from heaping more punishment upon it.

In the end, all that remained on the stairs were a few battered and discarded weapons, and more of the glowing spheres of light, yellow and green this time. And the persistent smell of those green goblins.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 08, 2010, 00:45
With a deep breath Ma'kirr relaxed her form. The fur on her body quickly shed off like snow falling from a tree. Noting a new color of remains, she quickly plced one in her pack before taking a rest by the window.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on July 08, 2010, 02:19
With a soft sigh, and Dragonborn settled on his haunches and inspected his shield, tracing a claw along the runes. After several circuits around the shield, the edge was emanating a golden glow, nearly the same color as his scales. "Well fought, comrades. The smell might not be the most pleasant, but I suggest we take a moment to rest ourselves." Standing up, he walks to where Ma'kirr is recovering near the window, whispering with the intent that only she hear: "Perhaps you shouldn't let your head get ahead of you. You fight with honor, but there is honor in letting others assist you as well."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 08, 2010, 06:07
- Well that was more dangerous than the last one. Let's take a quick breather before we move on.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 08, 2010, 07:04
Aden sat down by a statue. "Finally! Those goblins had some real tricks up their sleeves, didn't they? But I showed that one sneak, oh yes. Hell, ALL of you did a good job. Let's continue resting and be on our way."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 08, 2010, 08:52
"Ill keep that in mind Saliak. However what annoys me most is their inclination to lay you flat when they attack you. Smug little bastards."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 13, 2010, 06:06
Tristan finished his prayer, and sat down on the floor, accompanied by loud, metallic sound.

'Feline Lady! You should not endanger yourself so much! Rely on my help, for it is painful to see you wounded!'

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 13, 2010, 06:34
"Oye, Knight Boy. Knock it off with the feline lady crap. In the first place I am most definitely not a 'Lady' and second of all all you whining about my well being doesn't sound sincere at all. In fact you sound like a little boy whos just found his first sweetheart. I'll even bet money you're a virgin." she snapped. Rubbing her forehead, Ma'kirr heaved herself up and went to scout ahead.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 13, 2010, 15:57
Once Ma'kirr had scouted out up ahead and reported back that the stairs looked clear, you pressed on upwards.

The rest of the climb was rather uneventful, if tiresome. Eventually, though, you reached the top of the stairs, coming out into a high hallway. There were no fire bowls or braziers to shed light here, leaving most of the place shrouded in darkness. You could just make out a second stairwell across the hall from you, heading down, though no telling where it went. Immediately to the right, though, the hallway opened up into a vaulted circular chamber, ringed with pillars, with a shallow water-filled pit in the middle. On the far end of the chamber was an open balcony - the only source of light here, though with the storm brewing outside that light was barely enough to let you see the room. Heavy dark-red curtains hung down on either side of the chamber, no doubt blocking off additional balconies.

You weren't quite alone here, though. Standing in front of the balcony doorway was a man - or at least it looked like a man at first glance, clad in plate armour, with a large halberd clasped in one hand. Quite a tall and imposing figure... and one aware of your presence. As soon as you all had climbed the last stair, he turned around to face you. You could just make out two faint points of white light shining under his helmet.

"So... you are the would be heroes? You have been quite the thorn. Still, if you turn back now, you may get to keep your heads... for a time," he said, his voice hollow and grating to the ears.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 14, 2010, 03:55
- Heroes? Nah, we're just sightseeing through your tower Mr. Overlord. Can I get your autograph? It should sell well in Underdark.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 14, 2010, 08:57
'No more talking!' exclaims Tristan, his sword raised high (of course). 'You may either surrender and try to atone for your atrocities, or face us in honest, just combat to die, for Avandra is with us!'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 16, 2010, 16:05
"Pah! Turn back he says! AHAHAHAAHAH. No. Once I start a job, it gets finished. Period."
Aden readied his Sword "So, we gonna fight?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on July 16, 2010, 16:20
Saliak, deeply aware of the ambush on the stair case, peers around the room carefully before responding to the jibe from the apparent master of this tower. "You offer a retreat, but I suspect you would not honor such a request. Your words are meaningless, as your actions have already spoken. Say something worth hearing and we might respond better."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 17, 2010, 13:08
"Let it not be said I did not offer you the easier way out. So brash, so reckless... so willing to throw your lives away on a fool's errand. Then again, what should I epxect from such miserable piles of secrets? But enough talk. Have at you!"

The warrior sprang into action, moving forward with remarkable speed. He skirted around the edge of the watery pit in the middle of the room and charged straight into your group, inflicting a heavy blow upon Tristan.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 17, 2010, 13:41
There was no time to react. In an instant the Armored Man had closed in and struck Tristan. Seizing the opportunity when he was busy hacking into Tristan, Ma'kirr slipped behind him and struck him fiercely in the back.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 17, 2010, 14:08
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 19, 2010, 07:59
"Ah! A formidble opponent! I think I'm going to enjoy this...To BATTLE!" Aden deftly shift into position "Brothers! let me guide your blows!" Aden attemps a swing, but the boss is a swift mover. Norian's words do give his allies a bit of guidance.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 19, 2010, 08:27
(filling in for Tavana - Saliak's move)

Dragonborn circled their enemy and moved to attack. Twice he struck, and power of runes he invoked was so big Saliak was basked in golden fire.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 19, 2010, 09:05
- "Blind enemy? I like this setup!" - Ryltar drew his rapier and spran up landing on Castellan's shoulders. He stabbed downwards, hitting some vital point judging by the scream of pain and swiftly jumped down, attempting a quick slash at Castllan's legs. When back on ground he followed up with third blow to their enemy.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 19, 2010, 10:21
'That was a foolish thing to do, Evil Lord. Your vile strength is no match to our powers of Light!' shouts Tristan, bringing his sword down. The blade glistened like a shard of ice, as it struck the black carapace of Castellan's armour.

'Avandra will guide our blades!'

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 19, 2010, 10:49
The Castellan seemed to buckle under the force of your blows, but only for just a moment. Even through the flames shrouding his helmet after Saliak's blinding attack you could see the two points of light under the helmet flare up. "No! You will not best me so easily, upstarts! Flee and you might yet save your souls!"

The halberd came around in blind, sweeping blows, forcing you to keep your distance. The first sweep went over your heads, but the second time through the blade caught Tristan's side, biting in deep with a magical burning sensation, far different from simple poison or fire.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 19, 2010, 11:15
Despite the furious onslaught of Ma'kirr and her allies, the Castellan would not drop. Centering herself, she struck the ground with her open palm, shaking the floor beneath the Castellan. "Drop dammit!" she hissed with a smile on her face.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 19, 2010, 14:28
"Tristan! Go! Do not be discouraged by this evil fool! We shall show him true might!" Norian goes for his Steel Monsoon. The blow connects solidly, and it allows some of his allies to move.


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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 19, 2010, 14:58
(filling in for Tavana - Saliak's move)

Saliak hits the enemy once again, wiping Ryltar's existance of Castellan's mind using rune magic.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 19, 2010, 15:02
- "We're here to kick ass, and take loot... and we're all out of loot!" - Castellan heard Ryltars voice as the drow took another stab at him.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 19, 2010, 16:08
'Soon, you will be undone!' yells Tristan, striking again, furiously.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 19, 2010, 17:23
"I will not fall alone!"

With that battleshout the Castellan brought his halberd down on Tristan, striking a telling blow. Tristan's armour quite literally saved his life - without it, the noble paladin would have been gutted like a fish - as it stood, he remained greviously injured, while your opponent seemed determined to fight on despite the increasingly serious injuries you inflicted upon him. Soot-black smoke was seeping out from places where he had been cut or stabbed, forming a thin mist over the whole battle. Following up his success against the paladin, the Castellan brought his halberd around in another sweeping blow, this time striking Saliak and also inflicting a serious injury.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 19, 2010, 17:35
This bastard doesn't listen, Ma'kirr thought. The battle raged on but for the most part she was being ignored. Then a new thought occured, something that she should have done in the first place. Dissapointingly, she continues to make herself seem even less a threat.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 20, 2010, 07:59
"HEY! Son of a...Tristan! Focus! If you can stay focused on the battle, you can shrug off any wound! Now get back in it and FIGHT!!!" Aden then figures out where he should strike, and thrusts his sword just right to try and catch the castellan a bit off-guard, leaving him open to someone else's assualt.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 20, 2010, 08:36
(filling in for Tavana - Saliak's move)

Saliak's magic heals both him as and Trsitran, at the same time he attacks Castellan with another fiery attack.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 20, 2010, 08:42
Ryltar ran out of puns for this combat, which apparently degraded his accuracy. Neither his racial ability nor rapier thrust hit their mark.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 20, 2010, 09:14
'Oh, oh no...' replies Tristan to Castellan's taunt, striking with all his might. 'You will fall alone... you will die alone... And not a single one will mourn!'

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 20, 2010, 10:07
"Those that would have mourned me have done so already. Your actions have sealed your fate, and so you will share mine," the Castellan replied, his movements becoming more and more sluggish. Still, he was able to land a blow on Aden.

"You talk too much," he quipped as the halberd struck.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 20, 2010, 10:13
The Castellan seemed to be on his last legs. Desperate to leave her mark, Ma'kirr attempted to topple the Castellan but in her haste failed miserably.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 20, 2010, 10:35
Aden is suddenly struck by The Castellan. He is smacked with great force. But when Aden comes back around, there is fury in his eyes. He immediately slams the Castellan hard in the face with his sword, and then follows up with a vicious sword to the gut.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 20, 2010, 11:07
The Castellan staggered for a moment as he was struck, the light of his eyes beneath the helmet now barely a glimmer. "It is... over?" you heard him gasp out as his halberd fell to the floor with a clatter. Wispy trails of smoke rising up from his wounds, the Castellan took an unsteady step forward before dropping to his knees with a heavy clang of metal on stone. His head initially bowed, raised up to look at you. For the briefest moment you thought you could see a face behind the darkness of the helmet, and... a smile? Then the light of his eyes finally faded to nothing and he collapsed forward. The wisps of black smoke turned to a cloud of ash that spread out from where he fell, marking the floor black, while the armor settled with a clatter, the helmet rolling off a short distance before stopping at your feet.

Whoever it was that had occupied the armour was gone now, dead... and whatever magic fuelled him had apparently turned on him now, reducing him to the smear of ash and cloud of smoke hanging in the air where he fell.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 20, 2010, 11:21
With a sigh of relief and fatigue, Tristan, dropped his sword and shield, giving the remains of the Castellan a long look. He sat, his bloodied armour clanging loudly.

'And why do I pity him?' he asked himself in tired voice. 'He was not supposed to die with such honour. Not supposed.'

He paused, and finally, with a bit of reluctance, he snatched small symbol of Avandra from his belt. Holding on it tightly, he whispered a prayer, only raising his voice at it's final words.

'...and if you find him worthy, grand him redemption.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 20, 2010, 11:50
Aden stares for a moment, and then raises his sword high in the air and screams in triumph. he then puts his sword down, and takes the castellans armor and weapons, so that the party may examine them to see what they are.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 20, 2010, 11:53
'Put it down, please.' mutters Tristan, looking at Aden 'Looting bodies like that? Where is you honour?'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 20, 2010, 11:56
Aden dumps the stuff in front of the rest of the party. "This is my honour. I delt the finishing blow on a worthy opponent. I feel obligated to collect this as a memento of a epic clash. Besides, we may need this later, you never know."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 20, 2010, 11:59
- "Does honor feed you or pay your dues holy man? To victors go the spoils, there is no shame in it." - Drow commented
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 20, 2010, 12:01
'The victors I know knew better than to pick the corpses of the fallen like a pack of crows. Besides' his voice turned surprisingly dry. 'It is my duty... I swore to honour those that fought for their case, no matter what would it be. You are disgracing the body of great warrior. You are disgracing the very memory of him.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 20, 2010, 12:05
- "Funny how moments ago you said to said 'great warrior' that there will be no memory or mourning left after him. Either way the fact that you chose to honor him doesn't mean we have to follow. Don't know about the others, but I am not going to let something worth selling or using go to waste just because it's stuck on a corpse..." - Ryltar paused - "...not that this particular corpse has anything worth my notice."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 20, 2010, 12:09
'Don't you accuse me of hypocrisy, drow, for I already regret those words' replied Tristan dryly. 'Do not forget, that if it was not for me, my shield and armor, you could be lying dead here instead of him. And that I am not especially fond of company of petty thieves and grave-pickers.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 20, 2010, 12:11
"Say what you will. I AM taking the helmet." Aden then puts the helmet in his backpack.
"The rest...fine, we will put it up to a vote. A vote for yay is that we take the rest of the gear. Nay is we leave it behind "in some way that befits his memory." and so far, there is one Yay and one Nay. What say the rest of you?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 20, 2010, 12:14
'Put. This. Helmet. Down' sneered Tristan. 'Why do you insist? It is not even magical.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 20, 2010, 12:21
- "And you know that - how exactly? You say you aren't fond of 'company of thieves'. Well I'm starting to get tired of comany of overzealous fanatic. Open your eyes and look at the world for a change, instead of your religious fantasy. Should this thing be magical, and not cursed - and note we do not know which it is - leaving it here to rust is a waste only an mal'ai would make" - rogue snarled.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 20, 2010, 12:24
'Say what you want, believe what you want' dryness disappeared from Tristan's voice. He calmer than ever. 'Even if you are right, I firmly believe that there are some principles worth adhering. And respect for everyone, foes included is definitely one of them'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 20, 2010, 12:28
"Well...um..you see..." Aden fumbles with words a bit, before deciding to reveal something that only Norian would know. "My...Grandfather, was a very powerful...warlord. He...defended countless lands from goblins, ogres, orcs...you name it, he fought it...and his helmet was one of the most magnificent things i have ever seen. One day, he was felled in battle, his helmet lost, and ever since that day, I have had a fascination with helmets of many kinds, and maybe hope to one day encounter the Uthadar family Heirloom, The Helmet of Aleth-Ku Uthadar. That is one of the things that fundamentally drives me, Paladin. Just as your god drives you. I have a feeling that somehow, this helmet holds a clue, but I am not sure what."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 20, 2010, 12:32
Off to the side, Ma'kirr sat stretched out. Unfortunately her companions' arguing was starting to get in the way of her relaxing. "I swear if they don't shut up soon, I'm going give 'em each a good thumping..." she muttered, tightening her grip on her greatspear.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 20, 2010, 12:35
Tristan slowly shook his head in surprise.

'So... you're not taking it for petty, despicable gain' he paused, his voice softened. 'I think... I believe that I can understand. Well then, keep it. But just promise, please, that one day, you will lay this helmet to a proper grave so this man, despite all of his vile acts will not be forgotten. Please, just please.'

'And you, drow, if you value your fingers, you better keep them off the armor' he added, turning towards Ryltar.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 20, 2010, 12:43
"Thank you my friend." Aden bows.
"Of course, we now have the issue of the rest. I no longer have an active interest in it. if the rest wish to keep it, it's up to them." Aden then goes over next to Ma'kirr, sits down, takes out the helmet and looks carefully over it for any clues about his grandfathers helmet. He notices Ma'kirr staring with annoyance at the rest of the group "Ma'kirr. Calm. You're a monk, I thought they trained you in ways to block out the rest of the word in order to achieve balance." He then keeps looking at the Castellans helmet.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 20, 2010, 12:44
- "I already said I have no need for this pile of metal. But if you think I'll leave something actually valuable, should some new enemy we kill have it, then you better start preparing for breathing through more than one hole"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 20, 2010, 12:49
'This is enough, drow.' said Tristan. 'One more such idle threat, and we will see how well can you fare in fair combat.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 21, 2010, 16:10
Ma'kirr laughed at Aden's remark. "You make it sound as if all monk are the same. Monks are martial warriors that follow an ideal and unify under Orders. There are many many Orders in the world. Mine follows two concepts. Being centered -which is not the same as being balanced- and absolute freedom. You can do, act, talk, feel, go wherever and however you wish and at the end of the day, it all comes down to you and how you want to go through life. As long as you don't skew your judgment, the Order accepts decisions you make."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 22, 2010, 18:31
"How interesting. Sort of sounds like the training Norian had to go through...Minus the emphasis on Martial Prowress."
Aden sighed a bit then looked wistful.

"I got no such training. First, I had to do basic military service, and then, if you are shown to be a leader, they take you in...and send you off to a Military leaders school, Western Point."

He starts counting on his fingers: "Tactics, Deployment, Strategy, Military History, Greatest Battles, Naval Warfare. We have to learn it all, and use those to build on our stratagies in order to claim victory. I was one out of the 5 that made it, out of about 30 candidates. Didn't help that if you messed up, you could get sent out as a one man scouting party...a lot of people didn't make it back. It was rough, but the day I was allowed to command my own unit was the proudest day of my life. I could literally feel my Grandfather smiling upon me."


"Before you ask, the reason why I am here is that after a while, peace came, and I was getting restless. But what really did it was that I had recieved word that Norian had managed to go off adventuring by himself, mother and father be damned. Not to be outdone, I resigned, and started working for myself. I went to that tavern, and here we are now."

Aden takes a big breath.

"Sorry if I bored you with all that. I'm well known for my long winded speeches..."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on July 23, 2010, 16:58
The Dragonborn remained silent for a time, honoring his foe. He had worked hard to get to the position he held, and that took determination. Regardless of his aims, he had devoted his life to his work. There was honor in that. His prayer to Bahumat in Draconic was short, but Draconic was always a longwinded language. It said what was needed to be said in a roundabout and circling fashion - much like the dragons that it came from.

The slots in his scales on either side of his head contracted, what he was hearing was too much too contain. "Hold, friends. And yes, I do call you friends. I do not use that word idly. We have fought together. I have measured each of you in combat, and do not find you lacking. We have come here to get rid of this Overlord. That task is completed. But if what this...being has said is to be taken as truth, then it is only a step in the road to a final outcome we desire. I suggest we are united in meeting our future."

Saliak turns and walks to the armor, running a claw along it, testing for strength. "As for the spoils of war as it has been so tactfully said, we have honored this warrior in battle. He has perished. There is no longer any need to associate these items with that warrior. In fact, taking them and using them towards good ends would do the armor a service, something you perhaps did not think of."

Setting the armor down, Saliak turns and faces the group, standing to his full height. The strands of scales that extend over his back stand semi-upright as well, belaying the emotion, or perhaps simply the control in his statement. He points a claw at Ryltar. "You have good points to make, but please do not taunt the Paladin in this. We have just fought someone with similar skills to him, and he can see his own possible death someday. Perhaps he would like to have the chance to be honored in more than battle. This is his right."

The claw shifts to Tristan. "You are right to say that taking these items for petty means would be wrong. Examine our intent. Is the deposition of an evil Overlord a petty goal? Should Ryltar not earn something besides honor from this if he so chooses? That is his right. But furthermore: examine this corpse. Where is the body? Who are we defiling by taking these items? Shall ash and soot be defiled by using these items for the good of others? Even selling these items, melting them down, this would be a service to the metal. Leaving them here, or even in a tomb, these things would only be asking others to take them from their place of rest. I encourage you, friends. Think before you speak. There is much work yet to be done. Let us not undo ourselves before it can be completed."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 23, 2010, 17:09
Tristan smiled.

'I appreciate your argument, runepriest, and indeed, I can understand your reasoning. But' his smile faded 'I can't agree with you on it. Items have meaning, and can became a part of a person. In a land I come from, the family sword and set of armour means a lot. It is passed from father to son, and if there is no one to inherit it, we bury it along with the body of the owner.'

He looked down upon the remains of the Castellan.

'This is all that remained from a great warrior. Even if ignoble one. If I had time, I would bury it somewhere. But I don't. Therefore, I insist on leaving it to be. We have enough weapons on our own, don't we? Let this tower become a tomb for this... man. It is all I want. Even if someone is going to rob it in the future. I firmly believe that taking it from here would... would just not be right.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 23, 2010, 17:49
"Oh, you won't be taking it anywhere."

The new voice in the discussion was rather sudden, and its tone brought to mind the sound of a lead slab landing on a granite floor. You couldn't see the speaker at first, but the sound of fire bowls being ignited quickly drew your attention to the other side of the tall chamber, which had been up until now shrouded in darkness. The fire bowls did a wonder of lighting it up, though...

More importantly, they lit up the large oval chamber, the raised platform in its middle, the massive throne placed on it, and the armoured figure sitting on it. Where the Castellan could be called an imposing figure, this one was a giant, easily half again as tall as you, if not more. His armour was more elaborate as well, the metal plates inscribed with faintly-glowing runes. Underneath the helmet you could see two points of golden light, and propped up against one side of the throne - a huge mace.

Somewhat unexpectedly, the figure began clapping, the ringing of metal gauntlets coming together echoing through the tall room.

"I really must commend you," the figure began with a quiet chuckle. "For such a bunch of misfits, you really have managed to mess up my plans to an amazing degree. However, I'm afraid that run of good luck on your part has come to an end."

The figure rose from its throne, hefting up the mace, the weapon's flanged head leaving a trail of glowing cinders in its wake before it came to rest against the figure's shoulder.

"You've slain my lieutenants, my soldiers, invaded my home... you have more than earned punishment," the figure went on with a low, rumbling growl. "I would offer you the chance to surrender, but after all you've done I think it's more than you deserve. Any last words... heroes?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 23, 2010, 18:10
Tristan sighed with resignation.

'Just, before you proceed to kill us all in uneven fight...' he said, surprisingly calmly. 'What was the point of all of this? You could have stopped us before we stormed your evil tower, before we stormed in, slaughtering every minion on our way and mopping the floor with your lieutenant, while you watched.'

He sat down, heavily.

'You know what, Evil Overlord? That was not very stylish. And this gesticulation? Cheap. Clapping your hands in false amazement... Your kind is really, really repetitive. '
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 23, 2010, 18:18
"Actually... yeah. I have a question..." Ma'kirr took a huge breath before continuing, "What's your name, age, occupation, home address, weaknesses, favorite color, favorite food, preferred style of music, most hated music, Achilles Heel, shoe size, birthday, idols, evil hero, aspirations, the secret your undoing, plans for the coming years, how old were you when you had your first crush, your first kiss, any allergies..." the barrage of questions continued.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 23, 2010, 18:21
'And, while we're at it...' Tristan continued undaunted 'Have you ever considered a change of bloody style? Mace, dark armour plates of darkness, obsidian throne. You know, if you were a character from a bard's tale, I would have told the bard idiot that he should seek his line of career outside the creative territory.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 23, 2010, 18:27
Tristan's interrupt of her tirade of queries made her give him a look of annoyance. Really, he can't stop talking long enough to let other people finish? First he whines about looting, then he whines about the enemies sense of style. For all that is holy... at this, Ma'kirr got up, walked over to Tristan and struck him in the back of the head with the butt of her spear.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 23, 2010, 18:33
'Ah, thanks, La Belle Dame sans Merci Tristan said, rubbing the back of his head.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 24, 2010, 02:22
"Jeez, get a room you two. Anyways...Figures the man behind the man has to be so typically gauche. Well, how will we handle this? I mean, not for nothing, but I'm a little beat. This guy will be quite a challenge." Aden readies his sword "But that's fine. I love challenges!"

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 24, 2010, 02:44
- "Welll Tristran, the same way he could complain about do-gooders always coming in shiny armor and lecturing him about how bad the things he does are. Besides, I heard rumors back in Underdark that there is Overlords Association that strictly regulates their outfits and gloating." - it was hard to tell if the drow was joking or not this time

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 24, 2010, 02:56
'We all play our roles, Ryltar' chuckled Tristan. 'Sometimes' he added, standing next to Aden, his sword likewise drawn 'to the very end.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on July 24, 2010, 06:19
Behind the group, a loud cracking sound is heard. The Dragonborn's lips press together, and his three claws extend to their fullest, and curl together. Each time they curl together, the loud crack repeats. After a few repititions of this motion, Saliak pulls his warhammer from the loop at his waist, and it glows brightly at his touch.

Taking one step forward, he bangs the hammer against his shield, and drops down into a protective stance, ready for battle.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 24, 2010, 06:42
"Well said Runepriest. Well said." Aden nodded his approval, and Also banged his sword and shield together, and stood forward.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 24, 2010, 08:50
"The previous group of adventurers to come here also complained of my methods and style. It didn't do them much good in the end," the Overlord replied with a shrug as he stepped down from the dais. You heard cheers coming from overhead, and when you looked up, you saw dozens of glowing yellow eyes looking down at the scene - it looked as though a small army of the goblins you'd slain previously had come up there to watch. The Overlord reached out his left hand, closing it briefly into a fist, and a moment later you heard the creak of metal on stone and a loud clang as solid grates dropped down on each of the stairways, blocking off your routes of escape.

"I don't feel like chasing you all over my tower. You will meet your fate here," the Overlord stated, striding forward, his left arm outstretched again. For a moment you saw something flare up with light on the gauntlet before a large fireball formed in his hand and leapt from it, landing in your midst and detonating, its flames washing over you and leaving you badly burned.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on July 24, 2010, 19:23
Saliak bared his teeth at the firey barrage. He spares a moment's thought for the future. Bahumat, if I die here, let me rest and face my father in peace. Focusing his eyes on the hulking mass in front of him, his thoughts are more direct. His bulk could crush us with ease. The runes have the strength to bind him in place, though. A golden rune appears on the back of Aden's armor as the Dragonborn steps forward, a loud growl coming from his throat.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 24, 2010, 20:09
The fireball singed Ma'kirr, but soon her fur bristled back. With blood lust in her eyes, she charged at the Overlord. Striking him in the leg, she followed up with a series of light blows making him stumble sideways. Without giving him a chance to breathe, she regained some of her composure and started striking the air around her. While it looked silly, the Overlord felt her blows all the way across his body.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 25, 2010, 04:39
- "Of course this had to hapen when I'm too worn out to try my best tricks" - drow moved a bit, sheathing his rapier than threw a shuriken at the Overlord.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 26, 2010, 16:43
Aden feels his blood underneath his armor,not a good sign. He takes a minute to catch his breath.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 26, 2010, 16:52
'United we stand, united we fall, right?' whispers Tristan, charging at the Overlord.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 27, 2010, 07:21
You were quite certain your blows struck the Overlord - you could hear them ringing against the armour covering him - but he did not seem to be at all troubled by any injuries caused. Only Ma'kirr's blows forced him back a step, and from that he came back quickly, sweeping his mace in front of him. The monk was nimble enough to jump out of the way, but Saliak and Tristan got caught by the full force of the blow, which knocked them off their feet and sent them flying through the air - the paladin skidded on his back down the corridor, while the runepriest took a brief tumble down one of the stairs before being stopped by the grate.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on July 27, 2010, 08:17
Coughing up blood, Saliak stood, readying for another barrage from the creature. Such speed, such strength...There is fight in me yet. Recover yourself, then probe for weaknesses. It must have some... Taking a deep breath, the dragonborn came to his senses and traced a rune in the air, focusing his power on Tristan.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 27, 2010, 09:29
Just as quickly as the Overlord approached, Ma'kirr retreated. Once again she began striking the air in the Overlord's general direction. This time the attacks were focused on on his legs.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 27, 2010, 14:36
- "Open question - did anyone else get the feeling we're a bit outclassed here?" - another shuriken flew in direction of Overlord.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on July 30, 2010, 16:22
"I did. This is not good. Not at all. We can't get out either, which means if we go down, we are in deep trouble. But, we might as well make a good last stand!" Aden notices Ma'kirr's heavy beating. "C'mon! Shake it off and keep moving!"
and then Aden ponders what to do next.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on July 30, 2010, 16:42
'Come!' yells Tristan, standing up. 'Come, and fight honourably!'

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on July 30, 2010, 18:12
For all your efforts, the Overlord didn't seem to slow despite all the punishment you directed at him.

"I have a better idea," the Overlord replied to Tristan's challenge. Once more you saw a light flare up on his left gauntlet, and as he raised the hand to you, you saw a swirling fireball contained in the palm of his hand. "Catch."

The fireball leapt towards you, landing in your midst, its flames washing over you and leaving serious burns. Worse yet, the Overlord did not stop at that - as soon as the blast rolled over you, the huge armoured figure moved towards the south-side stairwells, mace swinging around. Saliak barely had time to flinch before the flanged macehead caught him square in the chest and smashed him into the stairwell's wall with a loud crack. As the Overlord turned to face the rest of the group, you could see the Dragonborn collapsing to the floor unconscious, a sizeable dent in the masonry plainly visible where mace, runepriest, and wall had met.

"You want a glorious last stand? You will all die here, and none will know if you fought well or begged for your lives on your knees like sniveling cowards. Cease your struggles and I'll grant you all a swift end! Go on... make it easier on yourselves..."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on July 30, 2010, 19:43
Saliak thinks he hears the gentle sound of a canary as he slips from conciousness.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 31, 2010, 11:54
    That hurt... Ma'kirr winced at the flames burning her. After make sure she wasn't on fire, her attention was brought to Saliak being sent to the ground. Now!
    Swiftly she made her way around the Overlords back where she recuperated for moment.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 31, 2010, 12:05
- "You draw a bit too much attention..." - Ryltar distanced himself from the paladin while throwing another shuriken

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 03, 2010, 13:21
"Aghh...No way...This is bad, very bad." Aden feels a slight pang of panic. He sheathes his sword and pulls out a Javelin. "If we go down, we're going down with a fight!" He Hurls the Javelin at the Overlord. It misses pretty bad. "Damn..."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 04, 2010, 13:51
Seeing Saliak fall, Tristan yelled in rage, lunging towards the fallen companion, and covering him with his oaken shield, trying desperately to transfer at least a little bit of his own vital energies into the dragonborn.

'Not yet...'he muttered when he was done. Immediately, he turned towards the Overlord and struck him with what little power he still had.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 04, 2010, 14:30
"Denial will only get you so far," the Overlord laughed, sweeping the mace down.

Tristan didn't duck fast enough.

There was a sickening crack, and a clang as the paladin's body was flung aside like a limp rag doll, the mace continuing its path to pound the recovering Saliak back into the floor. By the look of things, both of them were beyond saving at this point. Two opponents dealt with, the Overlord turned back to the rest of the party. Disregarding Ma'kirr for the moment, he rushed towards Ryltar and Aden. Though the Drow was able to evade the blow of the mace, Aden was flung up into the air, landing painfully with a clang a few steps away.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 04, 2010, 14:49
The sight of Tristan and Saliak being mashed made Ma'kirr flinch. A cold sweat formed as the Overlord turned his attention away from her. Big mistake...

In flash she darted behind him and lashed out at his legs once again. This time he fell to his knees, leaving himself open to punishment.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 04, 2010, 15:17
Ryltar quickly drew his rapier only to see it bend unable to push through Overlord's armor.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 04, 2010, 15:30
While Aden remained unconscious on the floor, the Overlord gathered himself up, shooting a brief glare at Ma'kirr before focusing on the closer opponent.

However, the Drow once again evaded the blow - just barely.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 04, 2010, 15:34
Once more, Ma'Kirr laid into the Overlords legs. As she did so, the phrase "Sweep the leg" seemed to pop into her mind.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 04, 2010, 16:13
- "Oh look - a convinent weak spot!" - this time Ryltar spotted a weak point in the armor and his blade struck true.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 04, 2010, 17:16
"I *felt* that..."

Despite the continuing series of blows, the Overlord didn't seem to have any trouble getting back up again. However, he did not seem the slightest bit amused by Ma'kirr's efforts or Ryltar's stroke of good luck. "I think this has gone on for quite long enough," he stated. For a second, you saw his gauntlet flare up with light, though this time the glow was a harsh white. Moments later the glow spread to envelop the whole of the Overlord's figure, raising him off the floor and into the air. You barely had time to blink before lightning arced out of his body, striking into each of you - even those that had fallen. The pain was incredible, but thankfully short as you soon lost consciousness. The last thing you saw and heard before fading to black were the Overlord's feet touching back down on the floor with a resounding clang.

Darkness took you, but it did not seem to want to keep you. Your spirits, severed from your mortal forms, soon felt the sharp tug of the living realm again, and with it the pull of a powerful will... too powerful to resist in your current collective state. Once more, darkness overcame you...

...and then disappeared as you opened your eyes, drew breath again. You were alive, that much you could tell - your bodies ached with memories of recent burns and shattered bones, though you could find no mark on yourselves. Unfortunately, you also could find no trace of your equipment, save travelling clothes. While you were... incapacitated, someone must have relieved you of it. Your surroundings did not look terribly welcoming - a natural cavern, lit by a few torches wedged in between the rocks here and there, with moisture dripping off the walls and large mushrooms growing here and there. The smell wasn't terribly pleasant either.

A quick glance around showed a possible exit way: a tunnel had been carved to the cavern, and had been fitted with a rather crude wooden door.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 04, 2010, 17:31
'I live... again?' muttered Tristan, before breaking a loud laugh.

'So we are still in game, right?' he said, slightly louder, getting off the ground. He laughed some more, joyously.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 04, 2010, 17:52
The damp cavern air made Ma'kirr's fur itch, what little there was in her normal form. The disappearance of her spear annoyed her but she was more concerned with her current location. No exit save for one door, must be a holding cell...
Looking around Ma'kirr tried to find anything useful before their captors or rescuers came back.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 05, 2010, 00:47
"Ah...wha...AH!" Aden bolts upright. "I'm...Alive! Oh thank Kord...I see my helmet is missing. While I am grieved at this, My life is more important, for now." Aden looks around, No one could tell before(and no one could right now, for they have never met his brother), with the helmet on, but Aden looked a lot like his brother. Now, onto more pressing matters, "Saliak! Tristan! Are you two alright? Damn that bastard! damn him to hell!" Aden was very angry, but quickly calmed after punching a wall. "So, What should we do now?" Aden then decides to inspect the door"

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on August 05, 2010, 04:04
Saliak's eternal sleep is interrupted by an interesting sound. Is there no rest on any plane, Bahumat? After a brief moment, the dragonborn feels his scales once more and both sets of eyelids open to the torchlight.

"It appears your wish was granted, Tristan. The warrior we fought and bested - the items he was carrying will remain in the tower as a sort of tomb. If indeed we are given another chance at life as it seems we are, I would like to clarify how we will deal with such issues in the future - before we best others in battle. Tarrying overlong after a victory can prove fatal - as I have just learned. I am sure that you would like to celebrate your recent return to life, and I can assure you that I do share a feeling of enjoyment at being able to draw breath once more, so I can wait before discussing this futher."

"I take it from the looks on your faces that I was not the only one to at least lose conciousness. I can assure you that my body felt as if it would not be habitable ever again. Let us consider - a supreme effort of force or will would be required to bring all of us back from death, or at least near it, and then transport us hither. Yet here we are. The possibilities as I see it are that the Overlord himself has brought us back from death to torment further. Perhaps also he could intend to attempt a scheme to do evil for him unknowingly. There is also the possibility that an outside force has acted, either with good or ill intent."

"Whatever the case, a quick survey has not shown me anything that could be my armor or weapons, and none of you seem to be armed. We are quite weakened, and dealing with an unknown force. Let us tread lightly."

All trace of the dragonborn's earlier silence in the short battle with what appeared to be the true Overlord has dissapeared, apparently. Perhaps he was just saving his speech up?

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 05, 2010, 05:39
Tristan listened closely to Saliak's speech.

'You worry a great lot, friend. We are alive, for now. This is strictly better than being dead. Whatever happens next, we remain in game, and sorry for that cheap metaphor. I believe that there is no point in wondering "why"- I guess that we will find soon enough. The question we should ask is "how do we retaliate"... For or duty is not yet finished, the Overlord still taints this world with his unholy presence.'

'Also, I an sure that there is no point in blaming anyone for the failure, the Overlord was way beyond our league, and even fully prepared, we would end up in the very same way. Before we will be able to bring him down, we must grow in power.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 05, 2010, 06:43
- "So we are contained, unarmed and on mercy of a guy who was able to beat us to death without breaking a sweat, and bring us back again. If you really think things he can do to us now are better than death, then you have much to learn. - drow picks himself up from the floor finally and walks to the door to take a closer look at it.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on August 05, 2010, 08:05
The dragonborn smiles gently "Bahumat is a God of hope, not worry, and he guides my path. As for being alive, indeed, it is much better than being dead. I'm not sure what sort of game you are refering to, but yes - life remains, and we are in it. That being the case, it feels ages since I've stretched my legs. If none of you have found anything interesting in that door, I think I'll see what's out there."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 05, 2010, 09:41
The door appeared to have been left open, though the damp surroundings made it stick a bit and require a slightly harder push. Still, it didn't take any real effort to open it. The tunnel beyond it seemed *mostly* natural, though there were signs it'd been worked at some point in the past. It was lit with the occasional torch wedged between the rocks, and seemed rather devoid of any interesting features.

Aside from the five brown goblins engrossed in watching two greenish slugs battle it out on the tunnel floor. Your awakening pulled them away from their entertainment, though.

"They awake! Gloob, go tell master!" one of them shouted, and the one apparently named Gloob took off running down the tunnel. The others snatched up their axes and swords and pointed them in your general direction. "You come with us now! Master want to see you."

These ones seemed better-armed and armoured than the ones you'd faced coming into the tower. They had partial metal armour covering them, and crude-forged helmets on their heads. Their weapons, while not looking terribly sophisticated, appeared no less deadly.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 06, 2010, 13:36
'Do we have choice?' asked Tristan, looking at the armored minions. 'I guess not' he concluded after a second of silence.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on August 06, 2010, 23:18
"You will not need your weapons in dealing with us." Not yet, at least. "Please lead the way."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 07, 2010, 05:28
  Ma'kirr felt unnerved by this. Goblins... being civil?
  Though not her specialty, she felt she could handle herself unarmed should things go bad, but as for her party she could not say.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 09, 2010, 05:17
The goblins led you away from the cave-cell and through the rough-hewn tunnels. You could see various other tunnels branching off here and there, but your escort seemed intent on one direction. Soon enough the tunnel began to climb and take on a more worked appearance, the walls becoming smoother and more regular, the gradual incline giving way to carved steps, and those in turn to proper stairs. The higher you went, the more familiar the architecture seemed, with demon statues holding firebowls to light the way, and small windows at regular intervals on the turns of the stair showing a rocky, jagged landscape outside.

If you still had any doubts as to where you were, they were done away with as you neared the end of the stairwell and heard a familiar voice.

"Get some new material!"

Just as you reached the top of the stairs, you heard a cry, then saw a goblin in what appeared to be a jester's cap come flying through the air, skip several times on the floor to the sound of tinkling bells, before finally ending its brief flight with a splash at the other end of the chamber. On the opposite side of the room, the Overlord was just settling back down onto his throne.

"So hard to find good entertainment these days," he noted. "Ah, my latest acquisitions have woken up. Certainly took you long enough... but let's get to business. I find myself rather short on capable lieutenants to see to matters out in the field at the moment. Seeing as you killed them all, I think you should prove a bit more competent than they were. Since we've previously established who has the upper hand here, I've got an offer for you. Serve me, and you will be well rewarded. Alternatively, I could simply reduce you to thralls with barely a shred of free will, your choice. Serve me faithfully, though, and you'll not find me ungrateful."

The little speech done, the Overlord leaned back in his throne, fingers clicking quietly on the arm rest. "So, what say you? I'll see you serve one way or another... it's up to you what the terms of servitude will be."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 09, 2010, 05:23
With a simple shrug Ma'kirr took a step forward, hand raised. "I'll take that offer"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 09, 2010, 05:30
Tristan looked like he was hit in the face when Overlord finished his speech. He shook his head slowly, not knowing what to say. He glanced at Ma'Kirr, no longer surprised by her eagerness to comply... After all, she had a life to keep. But he? He face a different dilemma.

'I...' he finally begun, speaking slowly, like he was having troubles formulating his words 'will never willingly server you, FIEND!' he finished, shouting last word on the top of his lungs, doing everything he could to hide that he was shuddering in fear.

Losing life? He already did. He would die gladly here. But losing free will? That was... worse. Much worse.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 09, 2010, 05:32
- "Wise choice there cat lady, count me in too." - Ryltar nods his head in approval then turns to Tristran - "Aaaw, what is it... little paladin has a deathwish?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 09, 2010, 05:34
'In case you did not notice earlier, drow' muttered Tristan, turning his paled face towards Ryltar.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 09, 2010, 05:37
- "Too bad, so sad. It's too late now - in case you didn't notice this guy over there..." - Ryltar pointed at the Overlord - "...brought us all back from death's door. So no wussing out for you, it's only matter of wether you will work for him of own choice or as a mindless drone."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 09, 2010, 05:41
"Funny. The Keeper of my tower thought much the same for a time. I believe you've met him already. And killed him over there," the Overlord pointed over to the other side of the throne room before looking back at Tristan. "Consider this, knightling: if it wasn't for me, your kings would probably be at each others' throats, accusing each other of ungodly acts, and sending poor fools like you after each other to slay the evil usurpers, warmongers, traitors, and whatever else they could think of. And you'd do it too, with a smile I imagine. You'd give your life to return chaos and disorder to the realms, and you would rather die than serve the one who would bring unity and order to the lands?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 09, 2010, 05:55
'I may be stupid, but not that stupid, fiend' replied Tristan dryly. 'My allegiance is to Avandra, not to earthly lords. And even if they are corrupted, even if they fight each other, they at least do not make destroying minds and hearts of those who oppose them their habit. And what unity do you bring that is better than freedom?' 
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 09, 2010, 06:00
"If Knight-Boy over there wants to put up a last ditch, vain, hopeless, futile, pathetic struggle, I say let him. Use him for as a training dummy for your minions." Ma'kirr had nothing... well she had a few things against Tristan but all in all he was just a dumb guy. But if he was going to throw away a chance to live, he could die for all she cared if it meant improving her chances of survival. Especially in this kind of dire situation.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 09, 2010, 06:01
'Yes, death appears to be favourable to service... Thank you Ma'Kirr for your support.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 09, 2010, 06:09
"Death?" At this Ma'kirr burst into laughter, "Kill you? Did you not see how pathetic those minions were?. Besides, if it's training, you will be faced with non lethal weaponry. You will face an unending barrage of bruises until you either change your mind or take you own life. That is always an option, suicide. Does Avandra look favorably on that?" Ma'kirr retorted. With enough pushing Tristan was bound to make a choice whether he lives though that choice is entirely up to him.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 09, 2010, 06:10
'Given the fact that I was already killed, so technically I should be dead, I doubt that she would really care.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 09, 2010, 06:11
- "Interesting... does that mean that you cling to worship of a goddess that no longer cares about you?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 09, 2010, 06:12
"I suppose you'd prefer I just murder those who disagree with me, like your kind so often do?" the Overlord shrugged. "I am not so wasteful. Why slay when you can make them serve a greater cause than their self-serving interests?"

"Besides... you've already built up a substantial soul-debt since I brought you back to life. If you won't serve willingly and won't be a thrall, I can always use the life force to create a fresh company of minions, or imbue a weapon for my new lieutenants with additional power. I'm sure they'd like that. In body or in soul... you will serve. No eternal reward for you at your goddess' side any more."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 09, 2010, 06:14
'Crap.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 09, 2010, 06:16
- "Tristran imbued weapon? I wonder what it would do... a shuriken that whines as it flies? Or perhaps a rapier that preaches morals to the wielder as you strike with it..."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 09, 2010, 06:20
'I will rip your black heart out one day, Overlord... my liege.'

Tristan knelt in front of the Overlord.

'Your will is my order. And God's forgive me.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 09, 2010, 06:25
- "Welcome to the dark side..." - drow grinned - "... I'd want to say that we have cookies, but I'm not sure if that's the case in here."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on August 09, 2010, 16:05
The dragonborn had been quite silent up until this point, half expecting the Overlord to be their final destination. Finally, seeing the episode with Tristan finished, he spoke "Greetings, Overlord. You brought us back from life, wishing to make use of us. In my previous life, I wished for many thing besides your destruction, but it was still something central to the last parts of my life. Now, I wonder if I might ask a question: Obviously the choice that would serve you, and our Gods better, would be to serve with our minds intact. Would you take my service, knowing full well that as soon as my strength would allow it, I would challenge you again?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 09, 2010, 16:16
"A very simple matter. My will brought life back into your battered bodies, my will keeps it there. While this does mean I can collect on that little debt of life force at any moment of my choosing, I could also use that same life force as puppet strings. Moreover, I intend for your actions to strengthen me further... I think I hit you hard enough last time to get the point across that, as opponents go, I am somewhat out of your league."

"Besides, if I die, you lose a steady source of employment and a shot at world domination. I doubt you'll get better offers elsewhere."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on August 10, 2010, 03:49
"I have no desires of World Dominion. Steady employment can be found in many hands, and I have little need for it, either. Life, though, that I would accept."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 10, 2010, 09:51
Aden is deep in thought throughout all of this. many things come to mind, his near death, his experiences prior, his companions, his quest for his family's helm, but most of all, he thought of Norian. What would he think? Aden wrestled with this, before finally deciding on a course of action.

"Overlord...Sir. I am yours to command, but only for the sake of keeping my life, for I have many things yet to be done, and I hope Norian hears not of this...but I do this for his sake, as well...I hope that the Kord gives me what little strength he can spare right now..."

Aden makes sure to bow in deferrence to his new Commander, the Overlord.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 10, 2010, 14:17
"Well, at least your priorities are in order," the Overlord replied with a shrug, settling back into his throne. "I've had forgemaster Giblet prepare you some additional items for your journey, as well as repair your equipment. I would suggest you go see him now. Come back here once you're ready to set out, and I'll provide you with your first orders."

As the minions led you away down another stairwell, you heard a parting "And someone fish Quaver out of the damn portal!"

The winding and twisting stairways made it a bit hard to tell just how high up you were, or where in the tower... at least your guides seemed to know the way well enough, and dropped you off at the tower's forge in no time at all. Compared to the rest of the tower, the place was almost unbearably hot. A number of huge smelting pots hung near the ceiling, and molds and slabs of metal were scattered all over the place. You were greeted by the forgemaster, who turned out to be one of the brown minions with an oversized metal mask and goggles over his head.

"Ohh, Master's new servants! Master said to put all your things in armoury, you can go get it there," the creature said excitedly, pointing its claw at a door. "Master also say to make you new shineys! You go get old junk while I bring new shineys!"

With that, Giblet left you to retrieve all your old gear. By the time you were done suiting up, the minion returned holding a small sack, which he then dumped on the floor and began sorting through it.

"Boots for the sneaky one, yes?" the minion held out a pair of boots to Ryltar. Their leather wasn't exactly new, but had been reinforced with a few strips of lightweight black metal, and those inscribed with faintly glowing red runes.
"Shiny necklace for the knight," Giblet went on, handing a brooch to Tristan. The metal was cold to the touch, and a sphere had been set into it, filled with a blue light.
"Gloves for the agile furry one," the minion said, passing a pair of gloves to Ma'kirr. The leather again wasn't of prime quality, but they had been reinforced with strips of metal and inscribed with runes that had a blood-red glow to them.
"More armour for the scaly one," the minion handed a pair of bracers to Saliak. These had been modified to each have a small shield attached, not quite enough to hinder or properly protect, but certain to be useful for countering blows.
"And a new shield for the warrior, yes?" Giblet finished, handing Aden a finely polished shield. Unlike the other items, the metal used for it was not black, but had a silvery surface and a soft gleam to it.

"Giblet can make you more things, too! Big weapons, strong armour! You just bring gold, and have Master let me infuse more life-force into items! Can make you some really powerful things, just you see!"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 10, 2010, 14:22
'Whose life-force exactly?' asked Tristan, donning his armor again.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 10, 2010, 15:10
"About any will do," Giblet shrugged. "Master got lots of it stored up. But he probably expect you to cover for any spent for forging. You go kill stuff, you get life-force back to master, he let you get better stuff from Giblet."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 12, 2010, 09:42
"Wow. This Shield...this is really something! And you're saying...if we kill more things, we can get even better stuff? I haven't had such a good source of awesome weaponry and Armor...ever, I think!"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on August 16, 2010, 03:49
Saliak changed into his armor, strapping the bracers tightly onto his scales. If they saw fit to outfit him with better equipment, so be it. The dragonborn waiting for the others, saying nothing.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 16, 2010, 04:13
- "Well I'm done. Shall we go back to our new employer now?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 16, 2010, 05:11
Aden gears up, and has his brand new shiny shield equipped. He dramatically puts on his Helmet

"Ready."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 17, 2010, 09:08
"Well, you took your sweet time," the Overlord said as you returned to the throne room. "I believe we should start off your career with a clear message to future heroes and those who would aid them. Here is your target..."

The Overlord raised his left hand, the gauntlet flaring up with blue light. On the other end of the chamber, the pool of water bubbled and soon formed into a sphere of water hovering in mid-air. The surface shimmered for a moment before presenting a picture of a quiet little village, one that seemed vaguely familiar.

"The town of Denach. They seem to have made a career of bringing together random individuals, getting them drunk, selling them overpriced weapons, and sending them off into the wide world under the pretense of fighting one evil or another. You might not recall the place too clearly, but that is where your own adventure kicked off. Now, the idea itself is laughable and was amusing for a time. However, they are starting to produce borderline-competent parties, as your own example shows. I should think it's high time you went back there and showed them what became of their heroes."

The Overlord lowered his hand, the water reverting to its normal form and splashing back down into the pool.

"Sack and raze the place. Send every building up in smoke, and slay any that try to stop you. Do leave some villagers alive, though - we want the news to spread, after all. Also, though I hope you don't need reminding, the correct order of action is pillage, then burn. No doubt they have a fair amount of gold stored up from fleecing adventurers like yourselves. Only fair you take it back, hmm? Now, as for additional orders... Mortis!"

"I am here, master," came a hoarse voice from behind the throne as a small figure stepped into view. It resembled the other goblins you'd seen before, but this one had webbed hands and feet (though the webbing itself was dried and shriveled), its skin was a bluish grey, and it was swathed in a dirty, tattered old robe. It also had a small scythe resting on its shoulder, and a pouch in one hand. The creature approached you, holding the pouch out for you to take.

"Thanks to all those heroes around the place, we were never able to set up a proper portal there. You will fix that issue. Once you are done razing the town, plant the contents of that pouch in the ground and stand well back. My portals can get you to within a reasonable distance of the town, but until you anchor a new one, it will be a one-way trip. Do not think you will be beyond my sight or control, though. Of course, I do not insist you charge in and attack the town immediately. I will leave the particulars to you, but I expect the town destroyed within a reasonable frame of time."

The Overlord settled back into his throne. "Unless you have any questions, my minions will show you to the nearest portal."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 17, 2010, 18:00
"Yes Commander." Aden bows. "Thy will shall be done" He turns to his companions "Are you ready?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 19, 2010, 15:21
Tristan bowed his head/

'Your will, my liege shall be done. Even if it is as twisted and vile as your soul.'

He looked at his family shield, reminding himself to remove the crest from it, so it won't be disgraced by his fall.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on August 19, 2010, 15:56
Saliak raised his warhammer and lightly pressed it against his shield, a vague reminder of his silent defiance not so long ago. The dragonborn nodded and began to search for the minion waiting to lead on towards the portal.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 21, 2010, 15:14
"Okay, we're ready. Now we just need the portal, and we'll be on our way, Commander." Norian takes the pouch from Mortis and puts it away.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 22, 2010, 00:36
"So how are we going about this? Should we just start killing everything that moves? Or perhaps killing everyone coming to or leaving town for a few days before attacking the town itself. Maybe we could blend into the people at the bar and start there." Ma'kirr suggested. She would much prefer a less direct confrontation if it mean higher success rate.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 23, 2010, 04:37
"The last idea is actually a preferable plan of action. we don't go all out right away, we have to wait a while, lay low, and then make our move. If we do it right, we won't have much trouble, do it wrong, and we will be wiped out...So I suggest we go to the inn, sort of chill for a while, and then find a way to go about our grim task."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on August 23, 2010, 04:59
The dragonborn grunts and shakes his head "How easily we forget. We will not go unnoticed there. We set out from that place. Far too many have seen our faces for us to be inconspicuous. Consider the timing as well. They will see us as coming back from this Dark Tower, perhaps even hailing us as heros. It seems to me the easiest way to crush the town's resistance is to enter the town as heros, but ask to speak to the Mayor. If possible, get the leader of the town's guard apart as well. Tell them we have uncovered new and important information regarding the future of the town. Slay the town's heads in quiet, and inform the populace of our deeds. This may crush their will to fight. However, this may not be possible, if they have learned the truth of our death and fall.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 23, 2010, 05:06
"Ah. A valid point, and an excellent plan. Are you sure you didn't go to military school, Saliak?" Aden says in a tone that indicates his approval and his envy of why he didn't think of that at all. "Let me do the talking, although I may need back up."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 23, 2010, 08:02
Your conversation and planning went on as one of the minions led you down another stairwell, out the lobby and out the main gates of the tower. After enough time spent in the dark confines of the tower, returning to sunlight was a bit painful at first, but you got used to it quickly enough again. The minion continued leading you, down the causeway that led up to the gates, though once past that it quickly turned off to the right - the path it took was rather hard to see among all the jagged rocks, and it's unlikely you would have found it on your own.

The portal itself wasn't terribly impressive. It was a half-circle of raised, crudely carved stone pillars, with a raised stone platform in the middle of them.

Also here was Tristan's faithful steed, casually grazing on the sparse grass it'd found here.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 26, 2010, 07:28
Tristan ignored his horse. Honestly, he was never a good rider nor ever felt somehow bound to his steed. Of course, he would not admit it- instead claiming that he let the equine go to "allow it to avoid the corruption of serving the Overlord", but even he did not really believed in it. The horse was just too much hassle for him.

With a grim face, he entered the portal.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on August 27, 2010, 03:04
Saliak sighs and shakes his scales, and after a short prayer to Bahumat for strength and forgiveness he follows Tristan into the Portal.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 27, 2010, 19:33
As you stepped onto the platform of the portal, you felt yourselves suddenly pulled away... and momentarily found yourselves elsewhere.

The change of scenery was quite pleasant. Rather than stunted grass and jagged rocks, you found yourselves now surrounded by trees, and you could see fields ripening before harvest time in the distance under a warm summer sun. Further away, you could see faint trails of smoke rising into the clear sky from the village. Quite an idyllic picture, all in all. Birds chirping, sun shining...

"Don't get too comfortable there. Remember what your task is," the Overlord's voice sounded, this time directly in your heads.

It didn't take you long to find your way out of the woods and out onto a dirt road. From there, it was a simple matter of following it to the village outskirts. Your arrival didn't go unnoticed, of course. Some of the workers in the fields spotted you and had told the rest of the village by the time you'd reached it, and giving them time to prepare a proper heroes' welcome.

"Welcome... welcome back, mighty heroes!" the village elder called, coming out to meet you. "It's been a long time since we've seen you in our humble village, but Denach never forgets its saviours! Surely your return here means the evil overlord is no more... this will call for a celebration," the man announced with a big grin.

From what you saw coming in, there wasn't much in the way of guards here, just a few peasants with hand-me-down armour and ill-maintained weapons...
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 27, 2010, 19:40
This is...Agh. This just feels so wrong. They barely have anything...This is going to be a bloodbath. Aden thought to himself as he looked around. He may have been in the service of the Overlord, but he didn't feel comfortable about what was to be done.
He puts on a smile and says: "Yes, thank you. However, we need to talk to you, and preferably the captain of the guard, about something very important."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 30, 2010, 05:24
With a face so grim, that it could probably be used to represent the Knight of Darkness, Tristan looked heavily on the townsfolk. Again, he would not admit it, but playing the Evil Knight was not that bad.

'Your very survival hangs on thread, old man. Lead us to your leaders- or else all we have achieved may be forfeit!'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 31, 2010, 14:00
"Now now... there's really no need to be so dramatic. I'm sure whatever new threat is looming is something you can handle without breaking a sweat," the elder said with a patronising smile. "Come now, we can talk more while the townsfolk prepare a bit of a celebration for your triumphant return."

Apparently the locals really knew how to put together a party - they were already clearing the village square for the tables and bringing said tables out. Meanwhile, the elder took you to his house, one of the three buildings around with stone walls (the other two being the smithy and the tavern.) Also present was the leader of the town watch, though from what you recalled of your last time here, his talents revolved mainly around shouting at others.

The house itself was quite well furnished for such a small village, it even had a (very) decorative (and gaudy) shield and crossed swords over the doorway inside. You don't recall the village elder doing much in the way of work, but whatever he did must pay well, judging by this place.

"I won't insist you tell us all about the quest now, brave adventurers," the elder said with a smile, "you need to keep some stories for the feast. But still... you've really done it, then? You killed the overlord?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 31, 2010, 14:38
- "Actually no, ..." - Ryltar's hands blurred as he drew his rapier and lunged at town watch leader - "...we decided that it's more profitable to take a stab at working for him instead."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 31, 2010, 14:48
  Ma'kirr stood with her back to the closed door. A solemn expression crossed her face as Ryltar attacked the Leader of the Town Watch.
  And so it begins...
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 31, 2010, 15:04
Aden put his hand to his face and sighed."Take a stab? Oh for the love of Kord that's terrible. Now, to explain." He turns to the elder. "We were doing alright, taking down goblins left and right. We even took down The Castellan , but the Overlord... he was too much. He obliterated us.The reason we're here right now is by his orders to destroy the town. I'm sorry, elder, but it has to be done." Aden raises his sword and goes for the elder.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 31, 2010, 15:09
'Trust us' murmured Tristan, drawing his sword. 'We had no choice. Really.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 31, 2010, 15:15
- "Aaaw come on you two, cheer up..." - apparently the drow wasn't amused with Tristran's and Aden's lack of enthusiasm
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on August 31, 2010, 15:17
'You would feel more comfortably if I have screamed "BLOOOOOD!" instead?' replied Tristan dryly.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 31, 2010, 15:18
- "I guess no, but maniacal laughter or breaking into a song would work..."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on August 31, 2010, 15:22
"Shut up you two, we have work to do." Aden swings again at the village elder. "You can't spend all day talking and sassing at each other."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on September 01, 2010, 05:31
Saliak watches this exchange with little input, but stands guard at the door. He loosens his mace from his hip and readies for violence.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 01, 2010, 13:56
The captain's eyes went wide as Ryltar ran him through. He coughed up a bit of blood (probably at Ryltar,) but still managed to scream out "GUARDS!" at the top of his voice.

Funny, though, you don't recall him screaming like a little girl last time you were around.

The village elder meanwhile tried to scramble away from you, but Aden's blade struck him a blow and the man collapsed to the floor, bleeding a lot... he'll probably be dead in short order, by the look of it.

Seeing this, the captain seized his club and made a swing at Ryltar, but having a rapier stuck in him must have hindered his aim a bit, as the blow missed.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on September 01, 2010, 14:05
With a truly sad and sorry look on his face, Tristan swings his family swords, wielded by generations of his ancestors in innumerable battles against vileness and evil at the captain. Sadly, it would appear that his regret did not help his aim, as he missed miserably.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on September 01, 2010, 14:57
Aden looked at the captain. He knew what it was like, once being a soldier himself. He had even been a captain of a guard unit before...but the man had to die. Aden turned towards him, and swung his sword pretty hard. It connected, but seemed to not do much to him.
"Hmm. This one seems awfully lucky."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on September 01, 2010, 15:31
  "Lucky indeed. Maybe you boys just suck." Ma'kirr quipped.
  Boredom had gotten the better of her as she stepped up to end this ridiculous fight. Striking swiftly she landed one solid blow to the Captains head.

Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on September 01, 2010, 17:10
"And whose words brought you back from the brink of death, more than once? Hmm?" Aden said as he looked around, waiting for some of the town guard to bust in.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 01, 2010, 18:19
The two blows quickly finished off the captain, and he slumped to the floor with only the faintest groan before growing still.

It sounded like his shouting had alerted people outside, though, as you could hear a commotion... and could see through the windows the assorted members of the town watch approaching.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on September 06, 2010, 11:31
  Watching the people gather outside, a slow smile crept over Ma'kirr's face. Without a word she took the fallen captain's sword and began making cuts in her clothing and even some small ones on her flesh. Then kneeling, she began to slather the 'injured' parts of her with blood from the two fallen men.
  "This should be enough to fool them," She said with a faint smile. "Now I need a little help. Would someone kindly throw me out a window? And make a lot of noise when you do."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on September 06, 2010, 14:33
'Oh, with pleasure, my dearest lady.'

Without a further word, Tristan picked up the feline, and threw her out of the window, without bothering to open it first, screaming something unintelligible.

'She asked for it, right?' he said, turning towards the rest of the party, with a wide smile on his face. 'And she had it coming anyway.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on September 06, 2010, 14:39
"Aw, I wanted to do that..." Aden said looking disappointed. "I like defenestration, Oh well. I'm sure I'll get another opportunity...and, my my." Aden said with a devilish grin."It seems the scorned heart hasn't quite healed yet, eh?" as he poked Tristan in the ribs. He then laughed a slight laugh and thumped Tristan on the back in jest "I kid, I kid."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on September 06, 2010, 15:05
  The initial impact of smashing through the window left Ma'kirr a little sore. Allowing herself to roll a few times, she shakily got to her feat. Sure it looked painful but that is all it was. Looks. For a monk, such events were mere exercises. She could hear various towns people approach her from behind. Forcing a cough, she dropped to her knees; Only her Greatspear supported her. All that remained was for her companions to play their part. In appearance, She was the injured female betrayed by her companions, there was no reason for anyone to see it as otherwise.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on September 06, 2010, 15:24
Aden decides to grandstand to reinforce Ma'kirr's gambit. He peeks out of the window, and starts to bellow out "HEAR THIS, PEASANTS! We have killed the Village elder, and the captain of the watch! We also beat up and threw that wench out because she did not agree to do it, and in fact actively tried to kill us! We are the servants of the Evil Overlord now! You have two options: Submit, and leave, or come up and TRY and kill us! Good luck with that! BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Aden then goes back in, and looks somewhat pleased with himself. "How was that?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on September 06, 2010, 15:31
'Glorious. Allow me to contribute.'

He follows Aden's footsteps.

'Hear me, unfortunate souls! Your lives are forfeit! We betrayed all you hold dear! I even betrayed my love, because she wanted to serve Good! Look at her, all wounded and miserable! She really regrets now!'

He went back, and nodded.
'Definitely glorious,'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on September 06, 2010, 16:46
The dragonborn silently walks over towards the window to survey the oncoming mass of people. After a moment Saliak's jaw opens, lightning crackling at the edges of his mouth. "Just because we're required to do this deed doesn't mean we have to enjoy it so much."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on September 06, 2010, 17:24
"I'm not enjoying it. I'm just putting on the act to reinforce Ma'kirr's gambit. I couldn't think of another way than to affirm that we are now working for the evil overlord..."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 09, 2010, 14:43
- "Dear Lolth, what cliche..." - Ryltar shakes his head at Aden's and Tristran's "show", while at the same time looking for something that could be made into a torch - "...no wonder no one takes evil overlords seriously these days until they burn a few villages."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on September 09, 2010, 22:00
"At least I don't make puns that cause physical harm." Aden said looking at the drow. "And, careful if you light something up, we need to pillage before burn, but I'm sure you of all people know that..."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 13, 2010, 14:38
Understandably, Ma'kirr being tossed out the window caused quite a stir in the gathering outside - enough so that in short order you had the entirety of the town watch standing outside the door, a dozen men in all. Half the men had spears, the other half (which looked slightly more competent) came with swords and crossbows, and even some armour. A few of them rushed to Ma'kirr to help her up, while the others watched the house uneasily.

"What'll we do? We can't just go in there... it'll be a slaughter..."
"We could board up the doors and windows and let them starve?"
"Nah, too slow... we'll burn them out."
"Ooh, the boss won't be too happy about it..."
"Judging by their shouting I don't think he's in any shape to give us grief over it anyway."
"Right. Get some torches! Shoot anything that comes out that door!"

Someone in the back of the group quickly managed to score some torches and was already passing them out, while three of the watchmen unslung their crossbows - two even took some preemptive pot shots at Saliak, though without much success, one bolt hitting the wall, the other hitting the window, but missing the Dragonborn.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on September 14, 2010, 04:09
  This is what it all comes down to: How to catch these villagers by surprise. Preferably it should be while they are fighting the others. To soon and I am stranded. Too late and I'll have no one left to maim.
  Ma'kirr put up a decent act of weakness, insisting that she only needed a few moments to catch her breath and she would 'join' them in the fight.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 16, 2010, 10:40
- "Oh I'm not sure about that. I certainly felt some pain listening to that shouting you two made." - Ryltar stopped his search, drew his weapon and casually strolled outside and stabbed the nearest watchmen right through the throat - "You wanted us to come out gentelmen?"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 16, 2010, 13:26
While the watchman collapsed to the ground gripping at his throat and gurgling out something incoherent, the remainder of the more "competent" watchmen took notice of the drow.

"Told you we shouldn't have trusted that pointy-ear!"
"Shoot him! Shoot him!"

Their shooting efforts went rather poorly, two crossbow bolts missing their mark completely... so much so that the third watchman instead drew his sword and charged at Ryltar, landing a solid blow.

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Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on September 16, 2010, 16:12
I am being watched, I must play my part. Raising his voice as he strides out of the door he shouts "Forget the girl for now. Deal with this rabble and we can finish her off." He ends his sentence with a lightning coated exclamation point.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on September 20, 2010, 14:53
The good humour seemingly vanished, as Tristan reluctantly lunged towards the rabble.

'We had to...' he shouted, raising his sword for blow '... we were left with no choice.'

He brought down the blade on of the veterans.

'And, no, I do not think that you would believe me...'

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on September 22, 2010, 02:47
That paladin...sigh.Aden shakes his head and moves in to flank the soldier that Ryltar was assaulting and finish the poor bastard off. Aden had heard from Norian that paladins had certain...personality quirks, and it looks like he was right.

While Aden didn't feel right doing this either, he felt it had to be done, in order to grow strong enough to destroy the Overlord...someday. Despite that being on his mind, when he was in position and swung, he swung a solid blow. He was unsure if this would be enough to end the poor guards misery, but he hoped it was.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 23, 2010, 14:50
Two of the watchmen collapsed to the ground writhing in pain from Saliak's attack, and the veterans that Aden and Tristan targeted were also badly wounded, but they at least kept on fighting.

"Traitors! Kill them!"

With a shout, the rest of the town watch joined in the battle, brandishing pitchforks and spears. They rushed towards Saliak and Aden, trying to drive them back from Ma'kirr, though their blows mostly missed their mark. Saliak felt the sting of a pitchfork grazing his side while the veterans decided to abandon their attempts at shooting and instead charge into the melee. One went for Ryltar, his blow striking true and leaving the drow seriously injured, while the other went to aid his comrade against Tristan - however, neither of them managed to land a solid hit on the paladin.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on September 24, 2010, 19:37
  The simpletons, it seems they have fallen for the trap. With the majority of the watchmen gathered together, Ma'kirr seized the opportunity to strike. Slipping into their center, she began weaving her greatspear around her body. Hitting nothing, yet she continued faster and faster, spinning it with great speed. The watchmen at first were unsure of what they were seeing as Ma'kirr was facing her 'evil' companions. But then they heard yelling from the back of the group. Turning, they saw the man rooted in place as an almost invisible force started lightly shredding at his skin.
  But it didn't stay light. Soon blood started running down the mans face. His companions tried to help him but found that they too were rooted. As the invisible force began tearing at the other men, Ma'kirr began to laugh. It started quiet... subtle... but soon developed into full on hysteria. The man directly in front of her suddenly cried out "Dammit! She's one of them", but it was too late. With the exception of the man, 5 others lay heavily wounded. Before he could react, Ma'kirr struck him with her spinning greatspear rapidly, knocking him backwards.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 25, 2010, 12:17
Ryltar made a rude gesture at veteran that hurt him with his free hand and suddenly area around him got engulfed in darkness. Moments later there were screams of pain, followed by one of the vets getting pushed out of the darkness near the house wall.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 25, 2010, 13:29
The townsfolk that had started gathering around the fight to watch before now began to disperse at speed when Ma'kirr revealed her true allegiance. By the time she was done, the remaining three watchmen were lying on the ground in quickly growing pools of blood, and the veterans were in a likewise sorry condition, though they at least could keep standing... barely. The townsfolk, on the other hand, were by that point at a full run back to their homes with screams of panic.

"VERY impressive, girl... you're definitely showing potential for this work," the Overlord remarked with a chuckle, his voice ringing directly in your mind.

The villagers only ran faster when Ryltar summoned up the cloud of darkness. There were a few muted cries heard from within its concealment, followed by two heavy thuds in quick succession.

Seeing the slaughter, one of the two remaining unharmed veterans began to inch away from the battle, clearly uneasy about what he'd just seen. Unable to draw a bead on Ma'kirr thanks to the enveloping cloud, he loosed a bolt at Saliak instead, but missed horribly. His companion in turn threw aside his crossbow, drew his sword and charged in swinging at Saliak, but failed to land a blow as well.

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Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on September 26, 2010, 07:55
"You rabble are badly trained. Though considering how easily your captian fell, it does stand to reason that he would teach you to flee once we've slaughtered half your rank." After delivering his insult to the back of the fleeing watchman, Saliak disengaged himself from the current 'rabble' in order to attempt to end the suffering of two at once.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on September 26, 2010, 09:01
'Oh please, we are destroying everything they have, and soon we will have to burn this town to the ground... We do not have to add to their suffering by taunting them, you know...' uttered Tristan, seemingly oblivious to the fact that Saliak's tirade would have problems intimidating small children. He then tried to hit the villager before him, but missed really badly.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on September 26, 2010, 13:56
"Hmm...The insult itself wasn't bad...but you lack a certain...panache. Let me try it."

Aden clears his throat.

"Hear this, all of you brave yet forsaken soldiers! We are imbued with the power of the evil Overlord. Even if you strike us down, we shall come back again and again! Your only options are to surrender, and wait for death, or attempt to flee. If you manage to get away from us, you may enjoy life a bit longer! THE DECISION IS YOURS! CHOOSE NOW!"

And he was done. Aden probably fudged the "again and again" thing, but they didn't need to know that. Same thing with the "life for a bit longer", it should have been good enough, if not to outright scare them into retreat or submission, at least plant a seed of doubt in their minds. He wonders what to do next.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 01, 2010, 16:06
As his companion fell to the ground screaming in pain at the flames enveloping him, the other veteran facing down Tristan showed a remarkable amount of sense and self-preservation...

He bolted away from the paladin before Aden got five words out, trying to make a run for it. Tristan managed to land a blow on the coward, but he kept on running in spite of it, sword and crossbow abandoned, tossed to the ground to make his escape all the faster.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on October 06, 2010, 17:55
Dodging past the Guardsmen near her draconian companion and, Ma'kirr heads for the farthest one in the back. Closing in she made a spinning sweep at the man's legs. Although seemingly too far to hit, his legs suddenly buckled as he was thrown to the ground from an invisible force. You could see a look of confusion and terror in the man's eyes; Ma'kirr smiled in return.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 08, 2010, 13:40
- Your such a spoilsport Tristran... - Ryltar lunged from the darkness attempting to stab the nearest veteran - ...taunting is half of the pleasure.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 08, 2010, 16:47
The veteran set upon by Ma'kirr, though knocked down, picked himself up off the ground quickly enough... and likewise quickly joined his comrade in a hasty retreat, leaving behind anything and everything he could've dropped to make his escape all the speedier. The second veteran, though wounded by the drow, also tried to run, but wasn't quite fast enough to avoid being run through by Ryltar just as he turned to flee.

With the two survivors of the battle quickly heading off in opposite directions, you were left with a town square significantly more bloody than when you arrived (courtesy of the monk), a number of bodies in various stages of dead, and a village that apparently had decided to shut themselves in their homes in the hopes that maybe you'd go away if you didn't see any more targets... at any rate, the previously bustling town square was now deathly silent, save the occasional death rattle.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on October 12, 2010, 16:59
"Well then." Aden started with a sigh. "We've done it. Now we get to the "fun" part of the job. Pillaging and Burning! In that order." Aden looks around. "Well, what house should we start in? Oh well, I'll just go here." Aden picks the nearest house and attempts to bust the door in with a good kick.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on October 15, 2010, 13:13
"I claim the Tavern!" Ma'kirr cried, running off in it's direction. Its bound to be loaded with booze and coin
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on October 15, 2010, 15:15
Tristan thrust his sword into the ground in front of him, dropped his shield and fell upon his knees.

'You go. I want to have nothing to do with burning or pillaging. Nothing!' he stated firmly, bowing his head and intoning the first words of the prayer for the spirits of the dead. His voice seemed calm- almost serene, but there was bustle in his head- for the first time in a few good months, he was actually trying to think through his situation. Up until now, he allowed himself to be guided by others- his liege, his party, his... new sovereign. But he was wise enough to understand that despite all the horrible things that would happen to him should he disobey the Overlord, he was a paladin, a paragon for what is good- and as such, he could not take part in such... actions. Yet, the prospect of becoming a mindless minion to the forces of Evil or, worse yet, just an essence for a magical item used to shed blood of the innocent terrified him more than he would admit- he just could not bring himself to defiance out of simple, common fear. Cowardice. But he knew that although the hope for a good afterlife is forfeit, he must rebel against the tyranny- or else he would join the rank of the vilest traitors the world ever saw- the fallen paladins, those who could not bear their responsibility.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 15, 2010, 16:51
As Ma'kirr entered the tavern (the door had been left unlocked in haste), she was greeted by the whistle of a heavy metal object - namely a large metal pan that flew past her head, out into the town square, and over the kneeling Tristan's head before landing in the dirt with a clang. The culprit, the innkeeper, was alreading winding up with another piece of cookware from behind the counter across the tavern main room. Quite a throwing arm he had, it seemed.

"Traitors! Fiends! The gods'll smite you for your sins! And you'll not be getting any of my gold either!" the man threatened.

The main problem might be getting through a fully furnished tavern hall without catching a skillet in the face...

**

Aden found, for his part, that the doors of the outlying houses weren't built so sturdy... or at least the hinges weren't all that strong. Or maybe it was the doorframe... At any rate, the kick sent the door crashing inside. As soon as he stepped inside, though, he heard more than felt something striking off his helmet. A quick look around showed the likely guilty party - an older farmer standing to the side of the door with a rather simple club in his hand, and looking at the weapon with a puzzled expression, as though he expected it to accomplish more.

The house was really just one big room with everything - beds, food stores, some other basic furnishings - all kept in pretty much the same place. It didn't show much immediate signs of wealth.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on October 15, 2010, 17:45
"Hmm. Not bad. If I hadn't been wearing my helmet, I may have actually gotten knocked out." Aden continues in and looks around. "Nice place. Looks like you work hard. Shame I have to burn it down, but listen to me first, good sir." Aden turns toward the man and puts on a convincing voice. "I don't want to kill you, and we need people to survive to spread the tale of the destruction anyways, So, what I am offering to you is the chance to leave quietly, and find a new town to try and settle down in. Sadly, this place shall be pillaged and burnt to the ground, but you don't have to be. If you do not accept my offer..."Aden suddenly takes a menacing tone of voice "I shall gut you, but keep you alive just long enough so you burn alive along with your house." He then goes back to the convincing tone "What is your response?"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on October 16, 2010, 00:53
The Dragonborn watched the beginnings of the pillaging with a sad smile. It would be much easier if we didn't have to slaughter them. But they must not have anything to come back to, or the Overlord will be certain that they die.

Walking to a central place in town he looked around for a small box to stand upon. After a moment's search he remembered that he would tower over most of these people, and decided against it. He needed to look barbaric. Baring his teeth, he shouted to the town as loudly as possible. "PEOPLE! Your Guardsmen are either dead or fled! This town is now the property of the Overlord, and he had decided that it will be nothing but ash and rubble in mere minutes! Anyone who flees now with nothing but the clothes on their backs will be spared the wrath of the Overlord. Make your choice now! Flee and you live. Stop to collect possesions and we WILL slay you where you stand, or burn you alive in your very houses! CHOOSE NOW!"

To emphasize the point, Saliak used his dragon's breath against a nearby house. It wouldn't set it on fire most likely, but hopefully it would get the idea across. Afterwards he counted to fifteen in his head, and shouted "Your death advances now!" before raising his shield, warhammer and advancing towards the nearest door.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 16, 2010, 14:21
- "Well if you don't want it I'll gladly take your share!" - Ryltar told Tristran cheerfully, before running back to Mayors house.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on October 19, 2010, 15:53
    "Is that so? How about you stop chucking that kitchenware at my head and I let you leave with you body in one piece?" Ma'kirr offered, slowly making her way though the tables. The man was easy to read, as soon as he threw a pot or pan, all Ma'kirr had to do was duck behind the nearest chair or table.
     "You're going to be out of things to throw soon and so will be my patience."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 22, 2010, 14:41
The innkeeper's response was to throw one of the more dangerous things he had lying around - a meat cleaver.

Perhaps it came as a bit of a shock to Ma'kirr when the table she used for cover made a loud crack, and moments later she found herself with a meat cleaver stuck in her shoulder... the guy could throw hard, that much couldn't be denied.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Meanwhile, the man that had tried to ambush Aden was considering his words... it didn't take him long, as he dropped his club and ran out of the house, heading promptly away from the town square. As far as could be seen, though, that was the only villager driven out into the open - Saliak's speech hadn't made quite so much of an impression. Granted, people ducked away from windows as the dragonborn approached, but none of them were yet particularly convinced to abandon everything they had.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on October 22, 2010, 17:53
"I see you would rather die... your choice!" She yelled, dislodging her shoulder from the protruding meat cleaver. With a couple feints she closed the remaining distance quickly and attempted (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2735181/) to smash the man's knees with her greatspear.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on October 22, 2010, 19:26
Aden looks out as the man runs. He shouts out behind him: "YOU CHOSE WISELY! FAREWELL GOOD SIR!"

Aden looks back in. "Well, time to pillage. There probably isn't much here, but let's take a look."

Aden starts thoroughly searching all over the house, looking wherever he could.'

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 01, 2010, 16:03
The barkeep apparently wasn't as good at dodging blows as he was at throwing stuff - he was brought low by the blow and quickly finished off... leaving Ma'kirr with a whole tavern to herself, cellars and all.

Aden, for all his efforts, didn't find much that could be called valuable in the cottage. Perhaps he'd simply picked a less wealthy target to start with. His spoils amounted to a somewhat tarnished plain silver ring, a necklace made of several silver hoops on a length of cord, and a pouch of coins hidden under the bed. All told, perhaps the equivalent of some 70 gold pieces or 700 silver pieces. There was also a sheathed sword hung up on the wall by the bed - odd that the old man hadn't used *that* to whack Aden over the head.

Ryltar, on the other hand, acquired quite a haul. A large decorative chain of office from the village elder (probably more for show than for actual status), a pair of showy (and judging by their looks, completely worthless in a fight) shortswords, another symbol of office from the captain of the guard, a well-hidden small chest of silver and gold coins, a rather crude silver statue of some deity (hard to tell due to the quality) nicked from the in-house shrine, a better-hidden little box of silver ingots, a copper ring with some sort of green gem set in it that the elder had been wearing... all told, some 420 pieces of gold in value (or 4200 silver, if someone preferred bigger numbers.)

"All well and good, but you should be wrapping the show up over there. There's more work elsewhere that needs to be done," the Overlord's voice sounded directly in your head, around the point where at least some of you were finishing up packing up their plunder.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 02, 2010, 13:18
Ryltar finished packing what valuables he found and went outside of Mayor's house lighting and tipping over what fire sources he could find on the way.

- "Seems that boss wants us back. Hope everybody is packed and ready to run, as I'll be setting up that thing we were given in five minutes!"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 02, 2010, 13:42
" I got everything I could find in the house. I wonder if there's any more valuables. I'm going to check another house, search for about...2-3 minutes, grab what I can, and run out before it burns to the ground."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 03, 2010, 16:52
After giving the ground floor a good shake down, Ma'kirr descended into the cellar. She spent a few monents searching for any stashes before moving on to her favorite part: Booze. After much 'sampling', she hauled up her favorite kegs and bottles. Now all I need is a cart...

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 03, 2010, 16:56
Once finished scaring away any residents, Saliak will take anything of value that won't burn (gold, silver) and smash with his warhammer any sentimental looking items. Then he'll move on...until things get too hot.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 04, 2010, 15:15
Saliak's efforts in the first house were quite rewarding - as well as a few assorted bits of jewelry, the fleeing family left behind a small chest, containing a considerable number of gold coins. Probably their life savings. Or the profits from the last adventurers to gamble away all their money. It's anyone's guess. The total spoils from that house came up to around 140 pieces of gold. Of course, while he was hassling the family in the first house to leave their belongings behind, the remaining villagers took the opportunity to flee at speed with whatever they could carry. As a result, the second house had noticeably poorer pickings, coming to some 900 silver pieces (or 90 gold).

Aden's looting was a bit of an improvement over the last house, netting a very decorative shield among some other loose items that the owners must have figured too heavy to grab while fleeing. Probably right, too, as the thing weighed a good deal. No doubt a parade piece. The "earnings" from that house came down to about 1600 silvers (or 160 gold.)

Ma'kirr, on the other hand, netted herself the tavern cashbox... as well as a second, much larger and heavier strongbox. Not much in the way of random goods, but plenty of plain, hard currency. A total gain of some 3600 silver pieces (or 360 gold.) Not counting the alcohol, of course. Though between the looting and the sampling, she'd only had time to get one keg out of the cellar before the deadline Ryltar imposed was up...
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 04, 2010, 15:20
- "Well time to set this up, whatever it is." - Ryltar took out a ink-black crystal from the bag and set it on the ground - "Leg it people!"

The drow followed his own advice without hesitation.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 04, 2010, 15:23
"Yes, I would advise you to seek shelter behind something non-flammable," the Overlord chimed in helpfully once the crystal was placed.

The inky surface of the crystal was lit up by regular flickers of fire from within... and they seemed to be steadily getting more frequent.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 04, 2010, 15:36
Still muttering words of a silent prayer, Tristan followed Ryltar. He was not looking to be particularity happy.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 04, 2010, 21:41
"Alright, I'm done!" Aden comes out of the house with more loot and books it as far back as he can go. He looks for a giant rock to get behind, finds one, and dives for it. "Safe!"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 05, 2010, 20:33
Ma'kirr toddled as fast as she could go, keg under arm. Fire and alchohol do not mix well and fully aware of this she moved hurriedly to keep up with Ryltar.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 06, 2010, 06:39
Saliak sighs inwardly as the villagers flee with their possessions as he knew they would. At least I made it look somewhat convincing. Hearing Ryltar being to set up the device, the dragonborn stopped his house to house search and headed towards safety, rather quickly at that.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 07, 2010, 16:26
It seemed like you got into cover just in time, as a strange rumbling in the sky and some additional sunshine caused you to look up... just in time to see what looked like a huge pillar of fire scattering any clouds in its way and coming down towards the middle of the village. After that, you had enough sense to lay low and cover your eyes and ears...

Of course that only lessened the effect, but not removed it completely. The flash, however brief, turned the countryside a stark mix of white surfaces and the occasional black shadow. The roar of an explosion made your ears ring, and the heat wave that rolled over the land afterwards left you short for breath... but alive to take all of it in. With the first sensation to come to you after the blast being the smell of ash in the air, it's probably a safe bet that others weren't quite so fortunate.

The scene that greeted you as you opened your eyes wasn't quite as pleasant as what you'd seen when you first arrived at the village. The fields immediately around the village had been turned to ash which now soared up along with smoke on the thermals. Further out, you saw fires consuming what the initial blast missed. The wooden houses had generally been reduced to charred skeletons. The few stone ones had likewise had their wooden elements charred, their stones glowing red-hot and even fused together in some places. But at least they were still mostly standing. Some scrabbling in the charred ground then drew your attention, and you were forced to jump back as what looked like a massive claw of crude black metal ripped up out of the dirt and folded out like some parody of a flower. A swirling cloud formed moments later in the "palm" of the claw, and soon after that, the familiar red goblins began pouring out, scattering around the area, no doubt in search for anything you might have missed. A large group made a beeline to the remains of the tavern - it appeared that the cellar had survived in relatively good shape.

Not wanting to stick around much longer (the ash, smoke, and general shortage of clear air made the area less than hospitable overall) you steppep up onto the portal each with your share of loot (or lack thereof).

A few moments of gut-wrenching magical travel later, you found yourself standing once again in the throne room of the Overlord's tower. The Overlord himself was conferring with several minions, and actually laughing. Not an evil, malicious laugh, but a plain old happy one. Downright disturbing.

"...it worked! Ha, the PIE worked! Hit that marker beacon dead on, too. We should start sending those to our enemies, that'll make for a fun time..."

At this point he noticed your return, and stood up, clapping his hands. "Admirable work, my servants. A good show of loyalty, and you've done your part in the weapon test admirably. What did you think of the Precision Incendiary Enchantment, hmm? Quite a piece of work, eh?" he said, then shook his head briefly. "Well, at any rate, the tower barracks are available for your use if you want somewhere to keep your spoils. Once you're rested, I've got another task for you."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 07, 2010, 16:43
Tristan looked at overlord, with a strange, a bit mad look on his face. He made his choice. It terrified him more than he could express- but he knew that it was the thing he was supposed to do- and there was no turning back.

'To hell with you, devil' he spat those words as if they were to show something- and maybe hide the fact that he was trembling. 'I am forever ashamed of my WILLING participation in it... he added after a moment, slowly, almost reluctantly reaching towards his sword's hilt. 'Even if this will turn futile... And it will, surely, you have total control over me...' slight screech was heard as he drew the 'at least, I will not have to live knowing, that I turned away... by my own free will... from the morals I swore to uphold.

The sword resting firmly in his hand, he took a deep breath.

'My willing service ends here!' he shouted, lunging towards the Overlord.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 07, 2010, 17:27
The Overlord didn't seem terribly surprised, and certainly the initial speech kind of spoiled the element of surprise. Still, he didn't make any move to dodge away, and Tristan's sword connected cleanly, the clang of metal resounding through the throne room, and frost creeping out from where the sword bit into flesh. Then the Overlord tilted his head down with what was probably a slightly puzzled expression.

"Ow?" he said.

Then his fist came around in an uppercut that lifted the paladin off the floor and hurled him clean over the pond at the end of the chamber and left him skidding to the very edge of the balcony beyond it - to say nothing of a likely concussion and shattered jaw. The Overlord wasn't quite done there, either, as he walked over to the paladin, shaking his head.

"You slay my servants, invade my home, try to murder me, and I give you a second chance at life after it all. And this is how you'd repay me? Well... I think you need to learn there's more than one way for a paladin to fall," he said, glaring down at Tristan for a moment more before reaching down to pick him up by the throat and hold him out over the balcony... easily a few hundred metres above the jagged rocky vale surrounding the tower. "You've achieved nothing, and suffered much. Consider if it was worth it on your way down. I will call on you again before long," the Overlord outright snarled, before simply opening his hand.

It was probably a good thing you didn't see the fall itself once Tristan disappeared over the balcony's edge. There was one loud clang as the paladin bounced off a tower buttress, and then nothing more...

"Find where he landed," the Overlord commanded, turning to his minions. "Gather up what remains. He's not weaseling out of his life-debt that easily," he added, then turned to you. "Unless there's any other issues of loyalty, I'd suggest you retire and rest. It'll take a little while before that fool's back with you again. Though I think I'll need to take some steps to keep him in line next time."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 07, 2010, 18:46
"Yes Sir! Right away sir!" Aden bowed a couple times. "Actually, sir...I want to thank you. To tell the truth, his overbearing piety was starting to get on my nerves. That is all." Aden bowed once more, and was the first to leave.

That was...That was terrifying. Aden thought to himself after he left. What was he thinking? We are nowhere NEAR powerful enough...Although he did say he would no longer do it willingly, so I guess it's better to die a painful death, and do bad stuff anyways against your will, than suck it up and keep your life? Oh well...that's one less ally we can count on, if we even do ever attempt it. I have no plans to do so. I have a family to keep alive... Aden kept walking along.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 07, 2010, 20:18
  Ma'kirr couldn't help but sigh. "Aww, I wanted to do that..."
  With nothing better to do, Ma'kirr picked up her keg and headed for the barracks. Finding an empty room, she began preparations for testing her spoils. Despite being a small tavern, the cellar had an amazingly wide selection. The keg, or rather the cask -for it was far too small to truly be a keg- was made of what smelled to be birch and sealed by wax not only on the lid but on the sides as well providing an exceptionally airtight seal.
  Drawing out a spigot and mug she swiped on her way out of the Tavern, she poured herself a small cup. Immediately she could smell the alcohol, much too strong to drink pure. Whatever this was, it would be sure to pickle whoever drank it. Excellent... Ma'kirr mused, giving it a small sip. Immediately she spit it out. It definitely needed some dilution for it to be enjoyable. That one sip was akin to drinking fire.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 08, 2010, 00:15
Saliak simply grunted at the Paladin's attempt. There was nothing to be said. Seeing Aden's display, the dragonborn made his way to the barracks, scratching a claw along one of the coins he had acquired from the houses. Upon entering the barracks, Saliak took the bunk closest to the door, and dropped the treasure into a pouch which he stored near the bed.

After stowing the majority of his armor and weaponry, Saliak turned to Aden. "I might see if any of the Overlord's servants need help with the paladin's remains. They might have some useful information as well." He casually flicked the coin he had been playing with earlier at the human as he left.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 08, 2010, 01:58
"Sounds like a good idea. I wish you luck." Aden called out after the dragonborn. Looking at the coin, he wasn't entirely sure to what the dragon was referring to, but he guessed it was his tasteless effort to kiss up at the expense of the paladin. He felt bad about it, but to be perfectly honest, he actually wasn't exactly a big fan of Tristan's manner during the mission. That part was true. He WAS going to look past it and try to get along with the paladin, tell him to lighten up, and somehow do what needed to be done, even if it was unsavory.

But, that was sort of a moot point now. Despite that, Aden resolved to no longer make jokes or "gain favor" with the Overlord with a comrades death...except Ryaltar, but only if he thought of a good one. He figured the Drow might like that, but he wasn't entirely sure just yet. He wonders how Tristan will act when he "comes back." He also resolves to talk to Saliak and apologize for his behavior.

Tristan might've been annoying, but no-one deserved the fate that would befall him...
Maybe he should go help with something. Or maybe he should take a rest.

Aden unloaded his loot, decided on the latter, and hit the sack for a rest.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 10, 2010, 15:12
The barracks were rather bare, their previous owners having met a grisly end at the hands of a certain adventuring party, and most of the contents no doubt repurposed for other needs. Still, they would do for resting, for now.

Some hours later, you were called back to the throne room. The Overlord was there, along with another armored figure. This one was a good deal shorter than the overlord, the armour he wore a touch less ornate, though still of high quality. The helmet was partially open, but somehow didn't show any of the face behind it, just a black void and two points of white light. The sword and shield, though, looked all too familiar...

"Ah, you're here. Good," the Overlord said, turning away from the small pool he'd been studying at the far end of the throne room. "I'm sure you'll be glad to know Tristan is back with you again," he chuckled, then knocked on the smaller armoured figure's helmet. "This time he should prove a bit more obedient. Now, come here and gather around, that I might instruct you about your next mission."

As you approached, the surface of the pool rippled, changing from a reflection of the vaulted ceiling to a view of a city, ringed by mighty walls, located on a rocky hill in the middle of a swamp. Despite the city's size, it seemed rather quiet, and there were some signs of war damage on the houses and the walls. An impressive castle stood at the very top of the hill, overlooking the rest of the city.

"Heaven's Peak. Once a great spiritual site, plague, siege, looting, war, more plague, more siege, war, and looting, and repeat outbreaks of the first plague have somewhat lessened its glory of late. However, with all the cases of Walking Death, the local priests from the Silent Order have got quite adept at making sure that dead people don't randomly start shambling around in search of brains. The city has yet to recover, but its catacombs are booming, and that is our point of interest here. After your escapades before you came to my service, I find myself in need of a fresh army, so why not go with the classic approach and raise an undead one? However, the Mumblers aren't going to make the task easy."

The surface rippled again, the view changing to an ornately carved stone portal, watched over by several grim-looking knights.

"The Silent Order watch over the catacombs and maintain powerful wards to prevent fresh arrivals from showing symptoms of the Walking Death. As a result they also block any attempts at other methods of raising the dead. Now, I've already secured the force to animate the remains, your task will be to secure the remains themselves. Enter the catacombs however you wish, I'm sure there's several gates. Locate the heart of the necropolis and destroy or disrupt the wards there through whatever means occur to you. Any outlying wards you render useless will be to your credit. Feel free to deal with the Mumblers however you see fit. However, I advise not taking anything from the dead interred in the crypts. Once they're up and about again, they may seek to recover what was taken."

The Overlord stepped back from the edge of the pool, clapping his hands once. "I feel you're competent enough agents that I can entrust you with a minor blessing, one that will allow you to reap the life force of those you slay," he said. A group of minions showed up, each with an odd left-hand gauntlet with an amber stone ornately set into the outer part. They quickly helped you fit these gauntlets to your hands and over any already worn gloves. "This life force can then be used to improve your equipment, or forge better arms for future campaigns. I will keep a tally of what you bring back."

A few moments after the gauntlets were fitted, you felt a brief, dull burning sensation just behind your eyes. A momentary feeling, but it left your vision enhanced - you could percieve the auras around the living creatures present, to better tell how much life force and of what alignment could be reaped from a given victim. Most of the minions present, being of the brown variety, had a faint yellow glow around them. The Overlord... well, you quickly learned not to look his way without suppressing the ability.

"Any questions?" the Overlord asked, crossing his arms over his chest.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 10, 2010, 15:41
"No, not really" Ma'kirr grumbled. The previous set of gloves she had modified for comfort, these... things were bulky and annoying. Hopefully there were other models she could change into when they returned.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 10, 2010, 15:55
"Not from me. Everything seems clear." Aden said, looking somewhat nervously at "Tristan"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 11, 2010, 00:10
"A few questions." The dragonborn flicks a claw at what appears to be Tristan. "Is there any way to disguise his appearance? We may be able to pass off these gauntlets, but there's little to no chance of subtlety in this endeavor if a passerby sees him. As to the city, I would assume there will be a guard. Besides them and this Silent Order of Mumblers, are there any other potential threats we should know about? Or perhaps a better question: is there anyone we are being asked to not kill?"

A quick shudder runs down the tendrils of scales that make up Saliak's 'hair' "And one final question - this change within Tristan. Is it permanent?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 11, 2010, 03:49
'Yes' Tristan spoke suddenly, stepping towards you, his armour grinding loudly with every move. His voice changed, as did his appearance, now being much lower and with some sort of eerie echo added to it. It was also very, very unsettling. 'The change is permanent and there is no way to undo it. My body has been done away, and my essence was bound within this armour. In a way, I am the first undead of the Army.'

He turned his gaze to the pool, still showing the Heaven's Peak, but said nothing more.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 11, 2010, 08:03
- "Oh hello there Tristran, old friend, old buddy... how nice of you to drop in." - Ryltar greeted the reborn "paladin" then turned back to overlord with a more serious face - "I have a few questions: Do they have any reasons to expect us coming? Do they have any nonstandard means that could expose us, such as magical detection? Will my race cause us problems in there, and if so then is there some sort of magical disguise available for us, or shall I make do with the regular 'totally conspicuous hood and cloak' deal?"
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 11, 2010, 08:18
"The catacombs have outgrown the city a long time ago. I'm quite sure if you look around enough you'll be able to find an entrance outside the city gates. I suppose if you wanted a disguise you could put him on a cart, cover him with a sheet and say you wanted to deposit him in the crypts, but I doubt subtlety will go far here. I certainly don't expect the priests to just let you walk in and smash the wards, especially as, to the best of my knowledge, they require constant upkeep."

"They always have strangers coming in with fresh bodies to drop off, so I doubt they'll pay much attention to you. To be on the safe side, though, I'd recommend not letting anyone who sees you enter the catacombs live. Aside from that, don't concern yourselves with the city. For now, at least."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 11, 2010, 08:31
'Posing me as a corpse would not lead us far anyway stated Tristan. Heaven's Peak used to house certain branch of my former Order of Paladins, they would doubtlessly recognize fragments of my armour. Or so I believe. We should look for one of the entrances outside the city walls.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 11, 2010, 13:49
"Alright. We have a potential point of entry to look for. I assume that our priorities will change once we are allied with a massive undead army, and thus there is no real need for a point of escape. I am ready."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 11, 2010, 13:53
'And so am I'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 11, 2010, 14:38
"Off you go, then," the Overlord said with a cheerful tone as he gave Tristan a shove towards the pool.

What followed wasn't so much a splash as it was a gloop.

"Well, it's quicker than walking down to the portal out in the hills," the Overlord added, looking at you expectantly.

Whatever hesitations you might've had, you jumped into the pool one by one. The feeling was akin to diving into thick syrup without the consequences of being damp and sticky afterwards. The magical journey was soon over, though, as you found yourselves standing in a semi-circle of carved and engraved stones on a hill overlooking the swamp that surrounded Heaven's Peak. The smell wasn't quite as horrible as that of the green goblins, but hardly an improvement. It was daytime, but it was hard to see much because of a fog that hung over the marshlands. You could make out the vague outline of the city walls, though... and some points of light shining visible through the fog down in the swamp below.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 11, 2010, 15:08
"Well now. That was an interesting experience. So, what's next? Search for a forgotten way in? try the subtlety route? I would have some sort of idea, but I'm not sure, and want everyone's opinion on the this."

This what Aden said, what he was thinking was a little different. Great...Undead. I LOOOOOOVVVVEEEE undead...*Sigh* I'm not sure what to do, but...Yes. We should scout the area a bit first. That's right.

"Wait. I have an idea. We need to scout this place out a bit. That's the correct thing to do."

Phew...Listen to yourself. Your nerves are shot. Ahh...I need to ask Ma'kirr if she'd be willing to spare some booze after this. Help me take the edge off...
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 11, 2010, 15:17
'That is the correct way. We need a scout stated Tristan coldly. 'The feline is the quickest on her feet of us all. Let it be her.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 11, 2010, 15:31
"Yes! Tristan is right. Ma'kirr, would you kindly go be our scout? You are basically Tailor-made for it."

Aden looks at Tristan and has another thought. I'm going to have to get over the fact that that thing is still Tristan...but he's not. Oh, this is going to be a LOOOOOOOONNNNNGGGGG Process...Focus Aden focus.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 11, 2010, 16:55
"You boys can't do anything without me can you" Ma'kirr teased. Quickly she set out to survey the area with keen eyes and silent footsteps.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 11, 2010, 17:05
Just as Ma'kirr left the team she felt another presence besids her. Ryltar matched her stealth with ease coming from practice, and apparently his senses were in prime shape today as he started to point out things she missed silently.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 12, 2010, 13:43
With the two scounts sent off, the three of you were left to enjoy the charms and comforts of the swamp in all its glory, in peace.

Things like the stench, and the constant sound of bugs and swamplife, and mosquitoes (though they avoided Tristan for some reason, and had trouble finding someplace exposed enough on Saliak), the occasional snake slithering by or toad hopping on through. At least you didn't hear any sounds of battle or alarm that'd indicate they'd been detected.

Still, it was almost an hour until the scouts returned...
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 12, 2010, 13:52
Suddenly as he disappeared the drow returns, sporting a smug smile.

- "Gentelmen, our small scouting party consisting of myself and our beloved cat lady who should join us in a moment once she's done sulking reports the following: To the southeast we have the city walls - there is a catacombs entry there, but it's a bit too close to comfort of the city itself so we decided not to risk our precious skins doing detailed scouting of that area. To southweast we have more swamp - some small islands of ground, some relatively shallow water, catacomb entry, pair of guards and nasty looking birds - I wouldn't recommend that entry either: while you probably shouldn't sink due to all that fancy armor you wear the terrain looks like it won't be doing us any favors in fight. Our best bet would be to the east - they had a graveyard there it seems. Part of it sunk, rest is infested by zombies who ate the guards. I counted at least ten of them, there might be more, but I still think it'll be easier to get through there."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 12, 2010, 14:02
'I was expecting that all the dead here are resting peacefully' growled Tristan. 'It would appear that this priests are not as successful as we were led to believe.

With a sound of grinding steel, he stretched his arms. You could see faint, blueish light emanating from the cracks on his armour.

'Fine. Let it be walking dead. I would rather end them, than some innocent souls.'
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 12, 2010, 14:04
- "Aaaw, ain't it cute - he still cares afterall. And here I was thinking the fall cured you of that. Guess you paladins are harder than that."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 12, 2010, 14:07
"...Well. Let us wait a bit for Ma'kirr, and then head east. We don't have anybody who uses anything holy, huh? Great..."

Aden hung his head. It was going to be a long mission...
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 12, 2010, 15:21
  Having spent most of the discussion pouting off to the side  Ma'kirr finally righted herself.
    "All right, let's go... No need to linger around here."
  Quickly she strode off ahead of the group.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 12, 2010, 15:25
"Well then! Let us be on our way. Follow the cat!"

Aden walked off.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 12, 2010, 17:17
The trip down from the portal hill and into the swamps wasn't difficult, and the walk through the swamp was bothersome, but not life-threatening. Your splashing around in the water, however, must've tipped the zombies off. By the time you could see them through the fog, several of them were already shambling towards you, though at least you had the fortune of the swamp miring some of them down and slowing their advance. Not all of them had risen to attack yet, but you could feel about ten eyes staring at you very intently.

Then a pair of zombies lurched out of the fog well into sight range, having apparently found a dry path. One swung its hand like a flail at Aden, hitting his side. Another tried to attack Ma'kirr, but was unable to land a blow.

The zombies began raising a low, steady moan...

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 12, 2010, 19:40
"Let us be through with these as quickly as possible. No doubt the sound will alert someone inside." I would have prefered subtlety. Some things cannot be avoided. As Saliak steps forward, runes flare along the haft of his mace. Anyone looking at his face would see a tiny half smile. Perhaps he is glad to be back to battle?

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 13, 2010, 06:58
The zombie was an easy target, and it crumpled into a heap from Saliak's blow. It still left quite a few of its companions to deal with, however...

Another group of the creatures lurched towards you, and while one was mired down by the swamp, two got within reach of Tristan, flailing away at him. One even managed to land a blow. And as if that wasn't bad enough, the soil covering some of the gravesites appeared to be stirring...

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 13, 2010, 15:21
Ma'kirr dodged the Rotter's swipe, as much as you can call swaying in a light breeze a dodge. Quickly she brought the half of her spear around in a violent spinning motion, smashing the zombie in the side of the head. Not waiting to see if the creature fell she slipped back between her comrades to assist Tristan.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 15:39
Ryltar didn't seem to have any comments this time. Instead he simply moved in and took down zombie near Saliak, and then turned his attention to one of rotters attacking Tristran.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 13, 2010, 16:50
The zombies were easy to hit, and seemed to fall apart at the lightest touch, but there were still quite a few of them... and another threat just reared its head, as the shifting grave soil parted and three more zombies crawled out, not quite as decayed as the rotters surrounding you... and a bit more dangerous, it seemed. One approached Tristan, its arms reaching out to sieze the fallen paladin, but he pushed it back with his shield. Ryltar, however, occupied with cutting down lesser zombies, would have been seized had Tristan not put himself in the drow's place. As it was, the fallen paladin got dragged back towards the gate. A third one went for Saliak, grabbing him and dragging him back to the other side of the hill in front of the gate. The other zombies lurking around there took the opportunity to seize upon this readily provided meal, and though they were unable to do much harm to Saliak, Tristan got battered quite badly.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 13, 2010, 18:00
Aden is not amused. "More zombies. Beautiful. Well, time to start slaying."

He moves in front of some, and hits a Rotter. It looks promising
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 13, 2010, 18:08
Tristan allows himself to be pulled for a few steps before finally swinging his sword at the zombie that grabbed him in a mighty attack.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 13, 2010, 18:23
The zombie was pushed back by Tristan's strike, but rather than stay pushed, it swayed forward and shambled up to the paladin, circling around him.

Meanwhile, the group holding down Saliak grew as a zombie diverted its course to the gathering, managing to land a blow on the Dragonborn. Another one tried to push past and into a suitable position to strike, but Saliak's quick reactions saw it smashed to the ground.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 19:19
Saliak was relatively unworried about being moved about. The zombie smelled of course, but so did the swamp. He looked briefly around the battlefield while he was being held. That construct that used to be Tristan...I suppose I should heal it. Although it would be interesting to see if it can die again. Better not risk it. But first, let's deal with things a little closer to home. Any hair on the zombie started to stand on end as the dragonborn prepared to attack.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 13, 2010, 19:40
The two zombies flanking the gravecrawler convulsed and quite literally fell apart from the lightning blast, but the gravecrawler itself seemed unimpressed by Saliak's efforts, still holding on firmly despite the blows he landed on it. Meanwhile, another zombie shambled up to Tristan and tried to attack him, but missed.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 13, 2010, 20:33
Choices, choices...
Ma'kirr mused over the fact her party was being separated, or at least the zombies were attempting to do that. Swiftly she swooped in to assist Aden. Bringing her spear in a low arc, she sliced at the Gravecrawler's legs. It would be amusing to see it try and drag someone now when all it could reach was their ankles. Seeing it still trying to grab her and Aden, she quickly stomped on it several times before kicking it away and turning her attention elsewhere.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 14, 2010, 04:59
- "Go get 'em tiger, they're no match for you!" - Ryltar shouted Tristran's way then laughing madly moved to put some more hurt on the zombie Ma'kirr wasted moments ago.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 14, 2010, 14:35
The gravecrawler that had first attacked Tristan was knocked down by Ma'kirr, and subsequently finished off for good by Ryltar. On the other hand, the zombies surrounding Tristan kept flailing at him, at least one of the blows hitting cleanly, making itself felt. The zombie gripping Saliak, on the other hand, tried to pull the Dragonborn's arm off, but couldn't quite seem to manage it... it still held on firmly, though.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 17, 2010, 06:30
"This just keeps getting better and better! Ryaltar, Ma'kirr! I want you two to assist Tristan, and I'll help Saliak! GO!"

Aden breaks off to move into position. He mutters to himself "Now's the time for some heroics." Then yells"Saliak! I got you covered! Hold on!" Then he runs full steam as fast as he can at a rotter near Saliak, yelling at the top of his lungs like a madman: "YOU SHAL BE SLAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIINNNN!!!!" and then bringing his sword down hard on the zombies shoulder, hoping to cleave the abomination in two.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 17, 2010, 10:17
Surrounded by the undead, Tristan briefly intoned something, likely some sort of prayer, and stabbed the gravecrawler he challenged with all his might. The blade left some sort of trail, like a faint, azure shimmer  before in sunk into rotten flesh.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 17, 2010, 12:48
Aden cut the rotter in two at the waist, both halves tumbling into the murky swampwater with a splash. The gravecrawler near Tristan fared little better, falling back into another murky pool - only a pair of slightly twitching arms were left sticking out above the water.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 17, 2010, 13:47
"While I appreciate you've not had much close contact since your death, I feel this embrace has gone past the point of comfort."

Saliak decided to work the strain put on his arm by the zombie with the best exercise: swinging his warhammer.


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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 17, 2010, 14:10
Despite the rude brushing off and even ruder hammer blow, the gravecrawler remained standing, though it looked a bit worse for wear.

Over on the other side of the swampy battlefield, one of the two remaining rotters landed another blow on Tristan.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 17, 2010, 15:14
Giving a quick nod, Ma'kirr darted around the putrid marsh pit nearby and struck the zombie though the chest with her spear. For some reason, the impact caused the zombie's chest to explode, it's shredded frame shuddered for a few moments before falling to the ground in a rotting heap. For good measure, Ma'kirr poked it's remains most viciously.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 17, 2010, 15:42
Ryltar moved through the path freed by Ma'kir's kill and sunk his rapier in the zombie that was trying to rip Saliak's arm just a moment ago.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 17, 2010, 16:17
While bits of zombie rained down with a spatter from Ma'kirr's onslaught and Ryltar finished off the last Gravecrawler, dispatching the final rotter was a trivial matter. Silence returned to the swamp, or at least you could hear the regular background noise over the zombies' incessant moaning again.

Though the fact had escaped your attention during the heat of battle, you saw three little yellow spheres of light hovering in the air, where the gravecrawlers had been slain. The rotters left behind little wisps of similar energy, but nothing that seemed to gather into a more solid form. Upon touching these and trying to pick them up, though, you found the lights absorbed into the new gauntlets you had received.

The way to the Heaven's Peak Catacombs was open now.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 17, 2010, 22:36
The dragonborn works out his arm slowly before quickly removing and cleaning his armor. "I would be more inclined to like undead if their flesh didn't fall off so easily. I hope the Overlord has something to get rid of the smell, as well."

Feeling much more refreshed with cleaner armor, Saliak donned it once more and quickly checked around the entry for any sign of traps or alarm systems.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 18, 2010, 11:41
Tristan concentrated for a few moments, channelling his essence to repair any damage done to the armor which contained him. Azure shimmer emanated from between the plates, welding all dents and crack. Few moments later it was done. Surprisingly to him, such usage of his lifeforce came to him naturally after his demise, almost like breathing. Quickly, he approached his companions, sheathing the sword in the meantime. There was one matter that needed addressing.

'There is one thing we need to do besides forwarding our sovereign's agenda' he stated coldly. 'When the success of our mission is assured, we will have to alert the city of it's imminent demise. The undead horde is going to take no quarter, and even in it's fall, Heaven's Peak is still well-populated, and should we fail to alert them, the slaughter is going to be truly horrid.'

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 18, 2010, 11:53
- "Did death damage your brain more than it was damaged when we met half-breed?" - Ryltar glared at ex-paladin - "In case you failed to notice: a) You're a piece of undead meat, meaning you'll get killed just for showing within sight of priests here, b) Rest of us would get killed either by people here for collaboration with overlord, or by overlord who is perfectly capable of watching over what his band of newly acquired dim-witted unruly slaves is doing."
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 18, 2010, 11:57
'I did not say that we all have to show up. I am more or less certain that some of us could show up in the city and deliver the information without putting themselves in danger. And the Overlord did not command us to assure the destruction of the city. He wants army, and that is all instructions we have got.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 18, 2010, 12:06
"The reason I did not tell you to assure the destruction of the city is because it's got massive walls, and behind them a mass of priests and their knightly order to boot. I might not be too attached to you, but I've no intention on throwing away an unequipped, fresh-raised undead army on a siege that would not profit my ends in any way," the Overlord chimed in, ever willing to add some insight to the discussion. "Now stop thinking for yourself, paladin, it's done you nothing but harm so far."

The gateway didn't appear to have any traps or such on it - the priests must have assumed the guards that used to be posted here would be enough to ward off any unwelcome guests.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 19, 2010, 02:25
Whew. Okay. Alright. No more undead for now. That's good. Okay, deep breaths, focus, and get your head back on track. Aden took a deep breath once, twice, three times, and managed to get himself to avoid freaking out about the zombies.

Apparently there was some unspoken childhood trauma that was being brought back. His helmet was doing a good job of concealing his worry, which was just as well, no need to worry his comrades about his possible necrophobia and cause them to lose faith in him, not yet. That time would probably come later, at the completion of their mission. At that point, He wasn't sure what he would do.

"Well, at any rate, we'll need to head on down in there soon, just...give me a minute."
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 19, 2010, 10:39
  Resting upon her spear, Ma'kirr couldn't help but muse to herself. Finally. Now the living dead are just plain dead.
  The entrance to the catacombs started to look more and more inviting as the damp cold of the marsh sunk into her fur and skin. It couldn't hurt to just move inside the entrance... could it?
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 20, 2010, 07:39
Descending into the catacombs, you found the place dryer, but not by much. The rough stone walls helped keep some of the damp out, but didn't stop it completely, so there was moss growing here and there, puddles on the floor, mud, and the smell was quite horrible too. The walls were lined with alcoves where bodies had been piled, wrapped in shrouds or encased in caskets, though these at least seemed the serious kind of dead people, less prone to lurching about looking for brains to devour. Still, it seemed like this room was starting to exceed its storage capacity...

Two corridors led from the room, branching off in opposite directions. Unable to find anything to tell them apart, you simply picked the right-hand exit on a whim and went with it. With only the occasional guttering torch on the wall to light the way, the walk through the corpse-lined corridor was less than pleasant. More alcoves in the walls, more caskets standing around on the floor...

Eventually, you came out into a larger chamber, lit by two large firebowls. The walls here were lined with stacks of coffins in addition to the wall alcoves, and the stone floor had given way in the middle of the room to a murky pool. Another corridor led out of the opposite side of the room, and it was through this corridor that another group entered... a party of five grim-looking men in heavy armour, with large shields and swords drawn, followed closely by a pair of men in hooded white robes. Spotting you, the knights did not look at all happy, and two immediately began approaching you in a decidedly unfriendly manner, weapons held ready and shields raised defensively.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 20, 2010, 14:11
Rising to the challenge, Ma'kirr raced ahead of the group. Homing in on the two nearest knights she impaled the one on the right. Without pausing for breath she kicked the man to left, drawing out her spear in the process.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 20, 2010, 14:22
Tristan followed the shifter. He wanted to warn the knights not to give their lives in vain, he wanted to tell them to run, but he he simply could not. It would jeopardize the mission, and he was not able to do so any more.

Moving fast, he charged at the second member of the Silent Order, ramming him with his shield.

'To my utter dishonour, I am obliged to end your service, Knight' he uttered the challenging.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 20, 2010, 14:56
- "Bloody large room." - Ryltar complained while running up to the edge of water then drew a small crossbow and fired a quick shot at one of the monks.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 20, 2010, 17:06
Despite the battering he received from Ma'kirr, the knight lived up to his name, barely even letting out a grunt despite his severe wounds. The other knight that went with him, the one that Tristan picked for his target, hardly budged when the paladin smashed into him, meeting his blow with his own shield.

Ryltar's crossbow bolt must have caught the monk in the throat - he grasped at it and collapsed to the ground in a gurgling heap. Seeing this, the knights on the other flank seemed to look even less friendly when they focused on Ryltar. With no battlecry, they simply dashed forward, charging into the Drow and slashing at him with their swords, leaving him quite badly wounded.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 21, 2010, 03:38
Excellent aim. I would need to engage the drow at close range, should the need arise. Useful. Filing away that bit of knowledge, the dragonborn turned to battle at hand, causing a rune to appear in bright gold on Ryltar's armor before stepping forward to smash his warhammer into the ground with a bright flare.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 21, 2010, 07:28
Though the flames lapped over the knights' armour, they did not appear to do them any noticeable harm. If anything, it only made them angrier.

The remaining monk, on the other hand, turned to the last knight by his side, trying desperately to get his attention. "Mhmhmmm! Hmhmmhmm-mhmmhm!" Well, that explains why they were called Mumblers... of course, having their mouths stitched shut did not really leave them much of a choice.

Once the monk had drawn the knight's attention to Tristan and Ma'kirr, he turned his own focus to one of the knights there. Raising his hands into the air, he called down a blue light which enveloped the badly wounded knight, leaving him reinvigorated and some of his wounds mended.

The last night charged in at Tristan, but failed to find a weak spot on the paladin's armour.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 23, 2010, 18:09
"Well, it's time to get things going...again." Aden looks over where Tristan is and decides to head there. "Saliak! I'll leave Ryltar with you, I need to assist the cat and the Paladin! HAVE AT THEE!" Aden yells as he charges at a knight, sadly for him, he seems to swing just short of the knight.
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 24, 2010, 09:20
Aden's blow glanced harmlessly off the knight's shield, who focused his attention on Ma'kirr instead. His first blow hit well, injuring the monk, though the second one he tried to follow through with missed quite horribly. Meanwhile, the knight that Tristan had marked out struck back at the paladin, but his blow likewise failed to find its mark.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 25, 2010, 16:31
  Enemies an all sides... the fools
  Taking step forward Ma'kirr smashed the ground causing a small tremor followed quickly by a series of spinning blows to the knights around her, being mindful not to hit Tristan or Aden. Reaching back behind her, Ma'kirr grabbed one of the knights and slid him up to his companions where she could see all of them.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on November 26, 2010, 04:49
'I hope that you will find the peace' uttered Tristan, with full force thrusting his sword into the prone knight he challenged. I'll make his death quick and painless he promised himself, channelling his essence through the blade and into the wound. He concentrated, absorbing all the pain that the knight felt.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 26, 2010, 11:27
- "Sir Knight, how about we play a round of 'Hide and Die'?" - Ryltar snapped the fingers of his free hand and darkness surrounded him, Saliak, and both knights. There was a sound of someone getting stabbed, followed by "twang" of a crossbow being fired and drow tumbled out of the darkness moments later and walked closer to other group of combatants.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 26, 2010, 12:21
After all the mayhem on both sides of the murky pond, three knights were prone and badly battered, though still alive... while in the dark cloud, the sound of something heavy and metal collapsing to the floor could be heard. Ryltar left the cloud soon after, and the other knight inched back out the other end. Spying the drow, though, he charged forward through the pond and tried to exact further vengeance for fallen comrades. Sadly, he missed.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on November 26, 2010, 20:01
The dragonborn was at home in most darkness. This was not normal darkness. Hearing the clangs of battle nearby and off to the right, Saliak decided to pull back and assess if his skills were needed elsewhere. "We need to figure out a gesture system to warn each other when we have plans to do that sort of thing."

Seeing that Ryltar has successfully downed a knight, he charged in to help finish the others off.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 27, 2010, 13:03
Despite being on the ground, the knight still blocked Saliak's attack with his shield. And while the monk in the back tried (unsuccessfully) to conjure up another healing spell, one of the prone knights stood up and struck out at Ma'kirr - but missed.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on November 30, 2010, 20:30
Aden was sort of unfocused in this battle, he wasn't sure why. It was really starting to get to him, and he was not proud of it. He knew that Zombies weren't THAT scary...but maybe it was something else. As he was pondering this, he moved in and swung at a knight, possibly a miss, having been too deep in thought to aim properly.
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 01, 2010, 10:33
Aden's blow glanced off the knight's shield, and soon enough the two fallen knights gathered themselves up and struck back. Their aim, however, was a bit off, and Tristan and Aden both got away unharmed this time.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 01, 2010, 20:52
  The shaking forms of the Knights around Ma'kirr gave her renewed confidence. Only one or two more blow should finish them off.
  Bringing the end of her spear high into the air, she made a great cleaving swing at the knights surrounding her. The first knight dodged, while the second fount the tip buried in his side sparing the third. Delivering a spinning back kick to the knight behind her, Ma'kirr slipped through the knights defenses.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on December 02, 2010, 12:39
Seeing the knight he impaled die, Tristan instantly absorbs the tiny bit of his lifeforce, turning his sword onto the soldier to his left, swinging powerfully. The knight, however, manages to parry the oncoming blow with his shield, and the lifeforce Tristan caught escapes his grasp.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 02, 2010, 13:21
- "I'm sorry, but that'll have to wait a while" - Ryltar told the knight before him, stepping back and sheathing his rapier. The drow then swiftly reloaded his crossbow at the second monk, and slipped past the other remaining knight.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 02, 2010, 14:26
Two of the already injured knights collapsed under Ma'kirr's blows, though the third held his ground well both against the monk and the paladin. The monk did not fare so well, struck down by Ryltar's crossbow.

The knight that had been following Ryltar tried to flank Tristan, but his blow simply glanced off the paladin's armour.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on December 02, 2010, 15:11
Saliak simply couldn't go a whole fight without breathing some lightning. He followed up with a swing of his warhammer, but failed to land a blow.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 02, 2010, 15:22
The lightning breath did appear to do some damage, but the knight didn't look much worse for wear afterwards. Meanwhile, the heavily wounded knight took a swing at Ryltar, but missed badly.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on December 05, 2010, 20:07
"Well, we don't need to worry about the monk running off and somehow telling the others something is happening...but I bet you anything they already know anyhow. Still, let us kill them, and be done."

Aden sort of cautiously positioned himself and attempted a swing at the bloodied knight. He misses.

"Figures."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 06, 2010, 15:56
The knights were nearly gone. With a short sprint Ma'kirr maneuvered next to the remaining knights. Rapidly she began striking randomly between the two, reminding herself to avoid Tristan who was in between them.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on December 06, 2010, 16:43
Tristan thrust his sword into the knight's body, hoping to finally end his pain.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 06, 2010, 17:09
Ryltar spun around, loaded another bolt and launched it at the last remaining knight... then cursed as he saw the bolt bounce of Tristran's armor as the undead knight got in the path of the shot at the last moment. Still muttering curses drow slid next to the Knight hiding his crossbow and drawing the rapier as he went.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 06, 2010, 17:18
While the already wounded knight collapsed from Tristan's finishing blow, the last one seemed far more adept at fending off attacks... though he fell short when it came to landing blows of his own, his latest strike glancing off Aden's armour before the knight moved back from the enclosing circle of enemies.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on December 07, 2010, 06:34
While Saliak missed widely with his warhammer, his runes would help the others finish off the knight.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on December 09, 2010, 05:56
Aden moves a bit and takes a swing at the knight, the blow looks promising, but...he's missed sure hits before.
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 10, 2010, 15:41
  "We should try to end this quickly, we have work to do." With that Ma'kirr lunged forward into the enemy. Bringing her spear around, she smashed the side of his knee. With a sickening crack he was thrown to the floor as Ma'kirr continued to wail on him for a few moments.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on December 10, 2010, 16:10
Making a step towards the knight, Tristan draws power from Saliak's aura and swings, intending to finally end this fight.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 11, 2010, 11:50
Once the knight was knocked to the floor by Ma'kirr's blows, finishing him off was an easy task for Tristan, and though the knight gurgled a bit as he was run through, he held up to the "silent" bit quite well.

The catacombs were quiet once more. Among the bodies of the fallen you found some loose coinage, and were also able to retrieve the life force of the fallen knights. You spied flickers of blue coming from the bodies of the monks as well, but that life force was too weak and fleeting to be collected. Perhaps another time...

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on December 12, 2010, 01:56
The dragonborn rested his mace against his hip and walked to the edge of the waters to sit. Addressing the others, he began to trace bright gold runes in a small circle around his body. "I would like a moment to meditate before we delve any further. I should be finished within a quarter of an hour." Setting his shield upon his lap, he traced another rune on its centre, and bowed his head.

I have let myself become a puppet. I have always had a choice, and chose to retain a portion of my will. May Bahumat give me justice, I can see no other path back to righteousness. I shall hope that the damage I cause will not be beyond my means to undo. But I must accept my current role. Either Bahumat will deliver me, or I shall grow powerful enough to deliver myself.

Over the course of several minutes Saliak's muscles tensed under their scales. Finally, with a flare of the circle of runes, they relaxed and he stood once more to make himself ready. His movements belayed renewed purpose.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on December 12, 2010, 04:47
Tristan stood perfectly still over the bodies of the slain, not moving by a slightest bit and not giving a quietest sound. Even the eerie glow of his eyes seemed to dim, as if his soul wandered away. And that was, to an extent, true.

His spirit stood on a seashore, under a sky that had the colour of steel. He knew that this place was just his imagination, some long gone dream. But he also knew that the person in front of him, standing knee deep in the water was real as he was. It was her power that brought him here. Her power that was one last shard of hope he held. It was her that offered him a bargain during his brief time before resurrection. 

Looking at her, he realized that he was never the knight he was supposed to be, the knight he wanted to be. He never understood what the paladinhood really is. But now, he was offered a chance to change his ways. To embark on a long journey that could ultimately lead to redemption. To freedom. First, however, there was a sacrifice he had to make in order to make the bargain fair.

Slowly, he marched forward into the sea, enjoying the last moments of being Tristan, for every step he took washed away parts of his old persona. Soon, he was going to meld with an entity only partially human. Soon, his soul would no more be only his.

And then, it just happened.

The armor in which he was encased moved, and for a brief moment, teal light emanated from all of it's cracks.

'I stand ready' he spoke, in a voice that sounded different than before.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on December 12, 2010, 08:04
Aden slumped to a wall, and gradually slid down it until he was touched the ground. He wasn't angry that he hadn't hit a knight, he had...other things, on his mind.

"This was a mistake. All of it. Getting bored in Misthorne, going to Ten Bows, learning there was a tavern in another town, and going there...and then getting involved with the rest of the party, and getting captured by The Overlord.

He had done things that if his family knew of, he wasn't sure what the response was. All he knew, is that he'd rather be back home, helping his brother, or going off and joining a militia, maybe see Thersys at whatever pub she's holed her self up in...

I want to go home.

You couldn't see it with the helmet, but you could faintly hear the young man, a great military commander, crying for mom, dad, and to go home like a lost child.
The zombies previously, and the knowledge of what was next were probably the triggers. Aden had killed men. quite a few men. But he hadn't cried like this since he was 11.

Why...Why me? What did I do to deserve this? I never killed someone who didn't deserve it...I never was too weak to protect myself, and the things I cared about...Why Kord? Why have you abandoned me? You haven't given me the strength to carry on!

Aden shook his head.

No, no.

He took off his helmet, and dried his tears. He put it back on.

That's not it. Kord has not found me wanting. I have overcome every obstacle without his assistance. He simply is waiting for the right time. He is waiting for me in my most dire moment in an hour of need. Well, If you can hear me up there on the mountain, Kord, I hope that time is before I have to do something irrevocably soul-scarring and irredeemably evil. I dare not sully your name too much with this, and if asked to do something terrible, will renounce you on the spot, rather than drag your name through the mud more than I have already!

With this, Aden felt something stirring in his soul. Perhaps...perhaps Kord HAD been listening, and gave Aden a signal, in the form of strength to continue on, as well as become stronger overall.

Well, Aden sighed and even smiled a bit as he got up and got ready to move. A small start is still a start, and as they say: You go to war with the army you have.

"All Right, I'm ready to go."
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 12, 2010, 08:47
Ryltar went around to pick up the bolts he fired. Then he re-checked the bodies to see if the meager few silvers they found was really all they had. Apparently not satisfied with the results he sit down on the one he shot and started to twiddle his thumbs - "Aaaareee weeee doooneeee yeeet. Come on guys, what's with the long stop this time around?"

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 22, 2010, 13:18
Once all had rested up and prepared, you set off further down the passageway. It wasn't a terribly exciting march - the most interesting things were the occasional rats scurrying about. As such, by the time you realised there was something interesting up ahead, it was a bit too late for stealth.

When you reached the next chamber, the guards present there were already well alerted to your presence, another group of five knights barring your way. Beyond them, you could see three more of the now-familiar white-robed priests, one of them holding a staff, and all apparently busy channeling some magical energies. The floor of the chamber was in fact covered with all maner of magical symbols, some of them glowing with infused power. Opposite to the opening of your corridor was an entrance to another corridor, looking very much the same... and to the left, the chamber opened into a much larger cavern, though the presence of enemies didn't give you the luxury of further investigation at the moment.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 22, 2010, 18:14
    More enemies blocked the path. Slipping up front, Ma'kirr began clearing a path to the robed figure in the center. He seems to be more potent in healing than the monks from before. It would be best if he died quickly.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on December 26, 2010, 19:30
"More Knights...ho hum. Wait....WHAT IS THIS?!?!?" Aden was not impressed. His soul may have gained strength, but that didn't mean he couldn't be an asshole...

"Look at these tactics! Shoddy, predictable...PATHETIC! Come on! Norian could out flank you bastards!" Aden moved up and took a swing at a knight. "Come on! Give me something to work with here!"
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 27, 2010, 06:32
Though Ma'kirr and Aden both landed sound blows on their intended targets, neither of them seemed quite willing to budge or fall over dead yet. And if that wasn't bad enough, the monks lurking in the back joined in the fun, breaking away from their duties to the wards inscribed all over the floor to summon up a healing light on the injured knights, healing most of their wounds.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 27, 2010, 06:50
Ryltar took three fast steps forward. With his left hand he threw a small vial of some substance towards one of the knights, while simultaneously drawing the crossbow with his right and trying to take a shot at the head monk.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 27, 2010, 08:00
While the vial shattered harmlessly on the knight's shield, the priest in the centre of the magical symbols was hit, and wounded quite badly by the look of things. In turn, one of the knights closed in to pen in the new threat and even landing a light blow on Ma'kirr.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on December 27, 2010, 08:59
Unflinchingly, Tristan strode towards the knights, leaving behind a faint, teal shimmer that soon faded. And then, when he was about to strike, blue light erupted around him, for a brief moment forming into a silhouette of a cloaked, faceless figure warping her arms around Tristan. This shape dissolved into pure light moments later, but the paladin's armor looked sturdier, all the cracks and seems glowing with inner strength.

'Surrender yourself, and you'll be granted a swift passage to other side' he uttered, bringing his weapon down on one of the knights.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 27, 2010, 12:58
Tristan's assault did not go unnoticed, and one of the knights he passed managed to land a good blow on the paladin. While the radiance that surrounded him afterwards seemed to protect him from harm (for the moment), Ma'kirr had less luck in terms of evading the knights' blows, leaving her noticeably injured. As if that wasn't bad enough, the priest in the middle of the room had finally taken notice of the fight (no doubt thanks to Ryltar) and called in some healing magic of his own... enveloping himself and the knight previously targeted by Ryltar's poison. By the time the magical light faded, both looked as good as new.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on January 04, 2011, 07:31
"Unless we can take that cleric down immediately we will need to concentrate our fire as much as possible." Stepping forward Saliak unleashed his breath and swung his hammer down, tracing a rune to weaken the enemy for further attacks.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on January 04, 2011, 12:33
A lapse in Ma'kirrs concentration left the Knight unfazed by her flurry. Taking this opportunity the others surrounded her, overwhelming her defenses. Quickly she fell back into a defensive stance.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on January 09, 2011, 15:15
Aden is egged on by how his adversaries are starting to shape up and flank his compatriots.

"See? THAT is how you do it! Move carefully, aim your attacks, and suppress your enemy! NOW THIS IS A FIGHT!" Aden roared with a slight hint of joy. "However, you men are not fully trained in the arts! And I shall show you how it's REALLY Done!"

He then moves towards one of the knights trying to flank Ma'kirr, and making a move like he was about to attack, the knight took the bait, and took a swing at Aden, "I have you now!" Aden swiftly dodged out of the way, and cracked the knight right in the head, trying to set him up so that if he tried to move away, Ma'kirr could try and deck him...except he hit the guy a little TOO hard, harder than he thought. Still, if he survived, the knight would still give Ma'kirr a chance to strike, and if not, well, there's one less to worry about.
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 14, 2011, 14:02
Between Saliak and Aden's efforts, one knight was left wounded and another much closer to death, but still standing. While the monks skulking around in the back didn't seem to have any more healing to add to the mix, one of them did rush in close, his dagger finding a chink in Tristan's defences, and the blow leaving behind it the burning sensation of holy energy.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on January 14, 2011, 14:52
The drow groaned seeing the clearic heal himself and then fired another crossbow bolt at him.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 14, 2011, 15:03
The priest was hit, though the damage didn't appear to be life-threatening. One of the knights saw it, however, and moved in to attack the Drow before he got a chance to do more damage, slashing at the assassin with his sword.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on January 15, 2011, 14:48
With a mighty swing, Tristan tries to knock the priest back.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 15, 2011, 18:04
The monk indeed staggered back... and then collapsed, bleeding all over. By the look of it, he wouldn't be getting back up. The cleric in turn sought to avenge the death of one of his order and moved in to strike at Tristan with his staff, but his blow glanced off the paladin's armour. The other knights too closed ranks, but save for one landing a blow on Aden, their attacks did rather poorly.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on January 15, 2011, 22:44
Dragonborn do not like being outnumbered. Then again, they know how to deal with such situations. Using a new combination of runes, Saliak attempts to balance damage, defenses and healing to the party.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on January 21, 2011, 18:14
  The knights press inwards, surrounding the group. With a smile Ma'kirr slipped back into the center of the fray. Any attempts to pursue her we're immediately cut off as Aden filled her position. Raising the tip of her spear into the air, she began tracing a large circle. Her eyes closed, breathing slowed, all focus was directed to the tip of her spear. Faintly, if you had keen eyes, you could make out a hazy trail flowing behind the tip.
  In the moment of a breath, Ma'kirr leaped up and off of Saliak and swung her spear in a great arc at the enemies below, tracing a large spiral. Though the spear could not reach, a wave of force lashed at the Knights below. Several took direct blows while others dodged by a hair's breadth. Softly landing, Ma'kirr prepared to engage teh nearest knight.


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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on January 27, 2011, 04:01
Aden had been thinking hard about what to do, going over the situation in his mind, and decides to attack. He had been thinking for a while, hopefully his swing had not been dulled.
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 05, 2011, 12:18
In the close quarters melee, Ma'kirr's blows proved particularly deadly, slaying the priest and leaving most of the knights badly injured. Aden's blow also left its mark.

Seeing the slaughter, the lone remaining monk began inching away from the battle, apparently looking to escape...

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on February 05, 2011, 12:42
Ryltar let the force of the blow he recieved push him backwards a bit and tried to shoot the running monk. Sadly the bolt flew far from it's intended target.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 05, 2011, 13:33
The knight that had previously hit Ryltar stepped after him, unwilling to let the drow cause any more harm or get away... this time, however, the drow was able to avoid the blow.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on February 09, 2011, 16:20
Tristan saw that the knights remained valorous, unwilling to do what would be the best for them, and surrender. And while he found no glory in it, he knew it was his duty to end them. For a briefest moment, he concentrated, marking the knight he struck before as the target for his zeal.

His sword shimmering with this odd, otherworldly teal glow, of the very same colour that emanated from him, he swung at him, immediately following with another attack, delivered via a shield bash.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 15, 2011, 15:59
Although the monk had apparently decided to withdraw from the battle, the knights still firmly held their ground, striking back at the intruders where they could and even scoring a few hits - as Aden and Tristan found out first-hand. Ma'kirr, on the other hand, managed to duck out of the way of two sword blows.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on February 17, 2011, 00:59
Slipping between two knights, Saliak slams his hammer into the back of one confronting Tristan. It crumples promptly with a sickening crack. The dragonborn gestures at the hole created by the twisted knight's form and nods at Ma'kirr. "If you are able to slip off and catch that monk, now would be an excellent time. We should be able to handle these with relative ease now." He then traces a bright gold rune which appears on Aden, and helps to boost the woman's defense and resistance should she attempt to catch their quarry.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on February 20, 2011, 19:11
"Not like I can exactly run over there..." Mak'irr began only to find Saliak's attention already occupied. The nearby knight seized this lapse in her concentration to strike but missed horribly. His sword became wedged in the grout of the floor, giving Ma'kirr a chance to slip away. Nimbly she wove her way past Saliak, keeping her distance from any other knights.
  In the clear, Ma'kirr went straight for the fleeing monk. He must die!

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on February 26, 2011, 20:20
Aden makes a few looks around to make sure that the tactical advantage is still in their favor and decides it is, for now. HE then turns his attention to the knight next to him and Ryaltar. He attempts to try and fake out the knight so he can get some damage in and give Ryltar an opening in case the knight tries to run away. Saddly, Aden misses pretty badly. He decides that simply won't do, and winds up for a real barn-burner of an attack, that hopefully would open the knight up to a follow up from the drow.
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 27, 2011, 09:32
With the opening that Saliak created, Ma'kirr got a clear shot at the fleeing monk, and her attack sent him toppling over the edge of the pit the room's west wall opened up into. At least he didn't fall screaming... it was more like a long, drawn-out "Mmh!" really.

Aden's attacks, on the other hand, left the knight near the back of the group badly wounded, but still standing.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on February 27, 2011, 09:40
- "You got a gap in your armor." - knight heard Ryltar say from behind him" - Here, let me show you exactly where!"

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on March 09, 2011, 14:18
With a grinding sound, Tristan brought his sword down upon the knight in front of him.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 10, 2011, 03:17
Ryltar's blow might not have looked immediately life-threatening, but a few moments later the knight slumped to his knees, then fell over with a gurgle. Tristan's blow also hit, but though his target was already looking quite injured, the knight still remained standing afterwards.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on March 10, 2011, 06:26
Saliak hopes his next swing will end the knight's resistance.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on March 13, 2011, 05:06
It was a sweet sound of silence as the monk fell down. Returning to the group, Ma'kirr whipped her spear into the nearest knights legs.
 "I thought you guys would have finished them off already."

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on March 13, 2011, 10:03
"Not quite, my dear cat." Aden said as he quickly scanned the quickly winding down battle,
"These guys are somewhat tough, but at the same time, I think we are safe for now."

Aden then carefully moves into a position where he can assist Tristan and then swings his sword at the knight he is flanking.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 16, 2011, 10:37
Saliak's blows hadn't quite succeeded at bringing down his target, but Ma'kirr's attacks left the fallen knight dripping red gore from gaps in his armour. He didn't look like he'd be getting back up any time soon.

Aden's blow also hit home, but did not make too much of an impression on his target.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on March 20, 2011, 11:28
Ryltar switched weapons once again, and sent a crossbow bolt at the wounded knight, but without success.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on March 23, 2011, 13:59
'You should not have fought us, knights'[/color]

Tristan advances, and strikes at the challenged knight.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on March 25, 2011, 04:07
"This has gone on long enough. May the pieces of your body find peace." Saliak's warhammer arcs through the air and with a ringing thud hits the tiled floor...after passing through the knight's body. Turning from the crumpled mess of bone and sinew, the dragonborn turns the attention of his destructive runes to the final enemy.

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EDIT: Healing added as per Xander's post.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 25, 2011, 13:27
While Ryltar's and Tristan's attacks were well off the mark, the knights seemed to finally get their game on - and when Tristan gave them the opening, he was struck by two telling blows in quick succession. The badly injured knight even managed to land a third hit before Saliak's blow... splashed him over the chamber and any bystanders. Aden had a bit more luck evading the other knight's blow.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on April 01, 2011, 00:05
Continuing with her assault, Ma'kirr charged towards the remaining Knight. Darting from out behind Saliak, Ma'kirr swung her spear wildly in a series of vertical arcs. A grating clang however, interrupted her attack as she got the tip of he spear wedged in the floor by mistake.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Madtrixr on April 09, 2011, 03:51
Aden was starting to falter a bit. He could keep going, but for some reason, he was getting a bit out of tune with his battle-rythm. Because this time, he swung to try and hit the remaining knight, but is not confident the blow will strike
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on April 16, 2011, 08:58
Ryltar fired another bolt, which again went wide of the target.
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on April 17, 2011, 16:55
Tristan strikes at last remaining knight, hoping to at last finish this fight.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Tavana on April 28, 2011, 05:16
The large spray of blood and flesh made the floor quite slippery, inhibiting the Dragonborn's aim.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 28, 2011, 13:17
The knight fared little better in the melee, missing Aden by a pretty wide margin.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on May 07, 2011, 22:19
"Quit wasting our time!" Ma'kirr screamed, stabbing wildly at the knight.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on May 18, 2011, 13:08
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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Malek Deneith on May 23, 2011, 10:15
Yet another bolt bounced off knights armor harmlessly, much to Ryltars annoyance
Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Gargulec on May 28, 2011, 07:35
'Perish!' exclaims Tristan, bringing his sword down upon the knight.

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: Xander Morhaime on June 02, 2011, 14:35
Apparently the request (and the blow) was enough to send the knight off, as he collapsed shortly afterwards.

With all the enemies dealt with, that left you with the time to examine the new chamber. Further north there was a doorway much like the one you'd come in through, while to the west the chamber opened into a vast vault that seemed to reach very far down... how far precisely you couldn't quite tell. A plain wooden walkway connected the chamber to a raised stone platform in the middle of the vault. You could just make out some figures gathered around on it, surrounded by blue light streaming up from the floor.

There was also the small matter of the runes etched into the floor of the current chamber. Even with the priests dead, they were still emitting a soft glow...

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Title: Re: The Master and the Minion - IC Thread
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 04, 2011, 04:07
"rraaAAAGGGGhhh" Ma'kirr cried in frustration, wailing on the corpse of a nearby knight. "I certainly hope the rest of this mission is less resilient.". Wiping the blood from her spear she went over to the runes. She had heard of fools poking strange runes and suffering for it, so she abstained from that initial impulse. Still, should the runes prove to be a problem, she could always assist in breaking them.

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