At The Stone River Waypoint

On the road home... Ritt K. said:     "I want you to send some message to my mother again." He breaths in, "25 words, let's see... Dear mother, It is me, Xankoris. The evil dragon Zorall possesses another Gaijin Black Scroll. Tell Daimyo, or Dark God will walk among us, again." He goes silent for a second, making it's in 25 words. "That's all I can tell her for now. I can't believe there will be another Gaijin Black scroll. Is there any evil god in Oerth that was destroyed?" "I'll send it as you said," Hamanap assures you. "Will this Daimyo be able to do anything, though? Provincia is so far away..." She casts the spell while your followers are breaking camp, praying for 10 minutes before intoning the words you gave her. Then she's silent and attentive for a few moments, before finally coming out of her trance. "Your mother replied, 'I will warn the Daimyo, and beg that he send harriers to recover the scroll. If you can, secure it. Evil must not use it.' " Then she muses, "The only evil gods I know of who were ever slain are the demon prince Orcus and the god of secrets, Vecna. But both of them were later revived, I think." Knowledge (religion), (history), and (the planes) apply. Ritt K. said: Max said: "...so about those Rokugani defensive spells you demonstrated," he says to the shugenja while trudging through the forest beside the wagon. "That castle of water seems very useful for us personally, especially if it can block firebreath from the half-dragons. Though castle of air  doesn't seem much better than mirror image , to be frank. The large-scale version would probably be great for protecting the fortress, but I don't know if Kendling will give us a month to prepare..."     "Of course, the original Castle of Air is meant to be lost, to bring it back I must ask Daimyo for permission. Even this Castle of Water is not the original, the real one can make Rokugan's castle out of the water, hence the name."     "Ask permission? To make a spell?" Axil asks, surprised. "You certainly have a very orderly culture in Rokugan ... maybe Hamanap can send  to him too, to ask for you?" Dawi said: Ritt K. said:      "There's another thing I forget to tell everyone, There's a spell with the same level as Castle of Water which  in theory  can  kill  Zorall if you can hold him down for 10 minutes, at least." Xankoris makes a couple of illusion of humans that has blue flame within the belly. "Imagine this blue flame is Chi, the energy within every creature. With the power of water, I can force to move a little portion of Chi from one being to another being."     While explaining, a little part of the flame constantly moves to another, until it has no flame and one human figment fade away, leaving another with twice the size of fire. "Though the effect is temporary, Zorall would be in a helpless state for a while." "And I assume the person that absorbs Zorall's Chi would become very powerful while the spell lasts, right? But I very much doubt we'll be able to hold him down for so long. I have been experimenting with semi-real illusions and I could create a net of force around his wings, but it won't last more than one minute..." Ritt K. said:     "That's right, imagine Avariel has 99% strength of Zorall on top of his Angelic power. I also think about that kind of spell too, like Weight of Heavens , but don't worry about that yet, let's focus more on a battle against Kendling" In your heart, Siwan says "This Chi sounds like another name for the lifeforce my kind takes from living creatures." "From what I heard in the caves," Axil points out, "it sounds like this Kendling fellow is more dangerous to us as a commander than a warrior. He's supposed to be pretty strong in battle, but I have to admit, his strategies against us were very sharp, and ruthlessly cruel. Even going so far as to use human shields... Zorall, on the other hand, is, well, a dragon." Hamanap nods sagely, adding "Dragons should never be taken lightly. A red dragon, even a young adult, is terrifyingly dangerous in a direct engagement. He'll be resistant to spells and nonmagical weapons, immune to flame and paralysis, able to breathe a cone of intense fire and strike terror with his very presence. And he'll have his own magic, too... innate sorcerous abilities on par with a skilled mage." Dawi said: On the road to the Waypoint Ering will wait for the convoy to stop for the night, he will retreat in a quiet tent and Scry on Vigil. He will observe his familiar and his surroundings with the intention to teleport there in the near future. He will try to cast Message through the crystal sphere (rolled an 87), and will speak the the raven. "Vigil, our raids in the caves of Zorall have gone well. I will scry on you one more time, then you will leave Base Camp and fly with haste to the Waypoint. You need to contact the birds around the fortress and convince them to come to the aviary. A siege is coming and fire and devastation will follow. Bring Hurok, he might be more persuasive then us." He will Scry one more time on his familiar, trying to reduce the chance of a mistake for an eventual teleport.  When you gaze into your crystal ball, the swirling mists of the spell part to reveal Vigil perched on the corner of a wooden building. Based on the snatches of chatter you catch from passing soldiers, it sounds like he's somewhere in Base Camp's garrison . He perks up when he hears the message  coming through. "I'LL DO WHAT I CAN,"  he squawks back in the loudest whisper you have ever heard, then takes wing and flutters over to land on a statue in a small square, perhaps thinking it a better target for future  teleportation . Your journey home, after the rough initial first night and day, also gave everyone time to rest and recuperate, unpacking the skill and might gained through hard battles and dangerous situations in Zorall's caves... Avariel has grown physically stronger and more confident, mastering the feats Improved Bull Rush and Improved Sunder, and gaining +1 Con and +1 Cha. Kraggan has learned better wisdom and leadership, gaining +1 Wis and +1 Int, and is blessed by Ehlonna with Swift Wild Shape [Wild] (COC062) and a bonus lv1 spell. Xankoris finds that his connection with Siwan has grown deeper, and he has unlocked a powerful new stage of the Deathmantle form, which is now able to gather the lifeforce from slain enemies into itself: each time Xankoris kills a living creature of at least 1HD ( actually kills, with a death effect or damage putting them to -10; get DM confirmation each time) while wearing his Deathmantle, it will draw in their lifeforce (but not their soul). The mantle will grow cumulatively stronger depending on the number of lives it holds: at 5 lives, it will grant him a +2 bonus to all saving throws; at 10, it will also grant him a +2 deflection bonus to AC; at 20+, it will also grant him 1 temporary hit point per stored life when activated, though the temporary hit points will fade when the mantle is dismissed or expires.     In addition to these, he can consume (burn off) stored lives to activate any of the following abilities, once each per day, which must be announced before rolling while the Deathmantle is active: consume up to 3 lives to gain a +2 bonus for each to a single skill or ability check, consume up to 2 lives to add an extra die for each to the di(c)e roll for a single spell, and consume either 2 lives for an extra move action or 3 lives for an extra standard action. All the practice spellcasting under deadly combat conditions has helped Ering to improve as a battlemage. He gains +1 Dex and +1 Wis, can prepare an extra lv2 spell per day, and has mastered the feats Still Spell [Metamagic] and Terran Spell [Metamagic]. He's also developed his aim quite a bit, and now has Point Blank Shot and Precise Shot (which do apply to rays and other spells that use ranged touch attacks).     Terran Spell is a custom feat, with the following benefits: A terran spell gains the [earth] descriptor. Any creature or object affected by a terran spell, and any surfaces within its area of effect, are left dirty by the spell. Any target with the (air) subtype takes a -2 penalty to its saving throws against a terran spell. A terran spell counters or dispels any [air] spell of equal or lower level. A terran spell uses up a spell slot one level higher than the spell’s actual level. At the war council... Josh said: hiskel- "if we are making battle plans we should have the leader of the red kings infanty men here too." "That's a good point," Leoavor says, rising from his chair. "I'll go find him, you guys can just relax and have some more lunch in the meantime." He leaves the council room for about 15 minutes, before returning with Elk, the dirty, scrawny rock gnome infantryman who was sent to lead the picked soldiers of the Red King. "Thankya for the invitation, milords and miladies," Elk says in a thick provincial accent, with a clumsy bow. Dawi said: Max said: Once the party is gathered in the small, lead-lined room around a conference table with a heatless, smokeless lantern burning on its center, Leoavor explains "We should be hidden any form of divination in here, so this is where we can hold our war councils from now on. We're underground too, and the walls and door should be thick enough to muffle any sound from outside." He also brought down a basket with some small loaves of fresh bread, a wheel of cheddar, a cold fried chicken, and a bottle of good wine for the hungry travelers to munch on while planning. Hamanap begins "I just sent  to Limar this morning, and it sounds like he's preparing to lure Rith into some kind of deadly trap soon. We should pray for his success. He also asked us to fund a Shrine of Aasterinian  and buy a scroll of consecrate  for Hiskel's clerk Eslen, so he can link it. I approve of the idea, for the Messenger is an ally of Bahamut, but... should we wait until the matter with Zorall is resolved first?" Ering looks around the room, surprised. "The work you've done here is impressive, and in such a short time..." He sits in one of the chairs and waits for everyone else to settle in the room and close the door.  "I see no problems with Limar's request, but I think we all agree that it is not a priority and such construction can be postponed for the time being." Ering sits back in his chair, ready to share his knowledge about sieges and warfare.  "First of all... The Waypoint is in a very good shape. We are well stocked on food and armor. We have strong walls, a moat, a drawbridge, siege engines and good soldiers to defend them. I think they could easily stand against a regular force even ten times their size.  Of course, what we are up against is not what I would define as a regular army. We will have to face Zorall's children: flying and fire-breathing half dragons... In case of a full assault they will have to be our first priority, ideally they will need to be brought down before they land on the walls or in the courtyard.  It would be wise to leave barrels full of water along the walls and in the castle, as well as select volunteers that will help putting out the eventual fires. My second in command will run drills, since people always think they know how to do something until they actually have to do it.  Kendling is smart and devious, so we should expect sabotage attempts. Poisoned water, infiltrators to ruin our supplies and even assassins should not surprise us. We should add more guards during the night. Kraggan do you think having your dogs roam around the fort would help catch eventual intruders? Lastly, the key in winning all battles: information. The more we know about our enemy and their tactics the greater our chances become. I have asked Vigil and Hurok to find and bring all the birds near the fort in our aviary, if we are lucky we can persuade them to spy for us. I will try to Scry on Kendling and some of Zorall's children. Xank, Hamanap, do you think you could divine if Kendling is attacking alone or if he is followed by Zorall as well? Knowing the answer to that question may save a lot of people their lives. Also, what do we know about Kaladesh?" Leoavor and Verne both nod in agreement about postponing the Shrine  construction. As Ering speaks, all listen closely, glad for the benefit of his deep education in such matters, and wait until he's finished to address their own concerns.  "I understand you were able to bring back some weapons and armor from Zorall's caves too," Leoavor says first. "I think we should add that to the armories at once." "Water barrels are a good idea," Hamanap agrees. "Unlike in the caves, where we had only to worry about our own persons, dragonfire will be a great danger to our home here." Leoavor nods, reassuring her "I've had our fieldhands bringing in as much of the harvest early as they can, in case they try to burn our fields too, and I've been buying extra food stores from merchants who come the canal . I'll set extra guards to patrol at night, too." "We ought to start using that sign-countersign thing that Kendling was having his soldiers use in the caves..." Hamanap ponders, and explains it to Leoavor. "The better-trained ones will make excellent guard dogs," Kraggan adds, in answer to Ering's question. "Hounds don't have much for nightvision, but they have good hearing and can recognize any unfamiliar smell as a threat. I'll make sure they know the scent of all the freed slaves we're taking in, too." "My boys can help patrol the Hills ," Elk volunteers. "We'll keep an eye out for any scouts or outriders tryna sneak up. And if'n it comes to battle, we can hold our own, Appletree," he says to Kraggan with a flirtacious wink. Nate S. said: "Importantly, my Remove Poison power works but once per day. That said, I'm particularly resilient against poison myself and I have a feeling others may be as well. It might be helpful to have someone or someones test the water at regular intervals, so that we are not caught by surprise should they attempt such an act. I believe there are certain spells that can be used to purify the food and drink as well, should we become suspicious." Avariel rubs his chin. "In a battle, I can provide aerial support, but I can't fight dozen half dragons alone. We should prepare siege weapons if we have them." "I can ask Bahamut for an orison--a small magic--that can detect the presence of poisons," Hamanap says with a warm smile to Avariel. "And there is another that can purify that way, yes. I believe our Fateseeker can cast them as well. I will begin using the first to spot check the food prepared in our kitchens at mealtimes, and the water brought in for drinking, and preparing the second in case anything is compromised." Verne suggests, "Perhaps we ought to be stocking up on extra ammunition too, and piling it at the ready around the walls. Bows and crossbows can rain down hell on infantry, and a direct hit from a trebuchet could probably do a number on one of those flying half-dragons. That way if they bring the fight to the air, we can give you more support, Avariel. Kraggan can fight in the air too, with her gift of animal shapes." Josh said: hiskel-"Any chance For hammy and leo to coordinate a teleport for Limar? I'm sure he'd want to defend the waypoint from invaders." "I dont know much about kaladesh, he's a friend of Limars." "I could... maybe try ..." Leoavor says uncertainly. "I did spend some time in the Stonefare , but not a lot in any one place, so I'm not sure how accurately I could aim. The best bet would probably be that kobold Temple of Tiamat  where we camped after we had to kill the whole tribe." He shudders at the memory of so much bloodshed. "I'll send  to him and see if arrangements can be made," Hamanap says. "I spent some time with Kaladesh during the Siege of Waterwend ," Verne pipes up. "We were on guard duty together, watching the northern mouth of the Stone River for reinforcements from Rith. He's a young copper dragon, about my size... decent at stealth recon, which is ironic since he loves an audience. He really kept our spirits up during the long days of watching the river, with all his jokes and capering. Seemed like a good guy, reliable and kind-hearted, and the Red King trusts him enough to keep him in his inner circle." Ritt K. said:   "Divination spell only works if the event will occur in one week. I also have to recover the spell back, therefore I won't have enough time to Sense Void on anyone"     Xankoris proceed to cast Divination spell and ask, "If I begin recovering the spell that will take 4 weeks to finish, would I finished before Kendling strike The Waypoint?" (1d100 = 43; Success) Xankoris prays and meditates over his incense, burning a silvered feather to draw in the spirits of the air... He descends into a deep quiet, and at last his eyes open, glowing with a soft blue light. A different voice speaks from his lips, from across time and worlds; soft and feminine, but resonant with power: "I am Asahina Midori, and I have heard your plea for insight. The winds of destiny gather now about you, and a great storm is coming, such as the world has not seen in long ages. I see a dragon taking flight, and a fallen hero leading an army of darkness. Yet you have time to prepare, and must not waste it--for when the storm comes, it shall be stronger than you expected." The magic fades, and Xankoris is himself once more. "How strange..." Hamanap muses. "It sounded like she was saying yes , that Xankoris has at least four weeks to master this new spell, but I thought the divination  spell could only see a week into the future?" Knowledge (history), (religion), and Spellcraft apply. After the war council... Dawi said: Josh said: - after the meeting hiskel will ask Ering to stay and show him the lexicon   -asking her next question "where should i go to hear the true name of fire?" Ering will look in amazement at the Lexicon. "This artifact is incredible... I really wish I could spend more time studying Truenaming, but alas, our time is short and mastery of everything is impossible. Have you learned the full Truename of something or someone? Excluding yourself." And indeed, as she described, once she finishes turning the various sections to spell out her question in Draconic along its faces, the cube begins to spin on its own, whirling rapidly into a new configuration, before snapping to a stop and settling in her hands. Across its sides, it now reads in Draconic: "into the closest council of Shurreon". The last word is spelt phonetically in the manner used for proper names, leaving no doubt that it refers to your nemesis in the Stone River War. Truespeak and Spellcraft apply to the strange symbols. Josh said: whats the time relation between Limar and the party now? -want to know if its ok to level Hiskel -hiskel will also retrieve the lesser rod of enlarge spell, the range increase should be more useful now that we're out of the caves. It's Harvester 22nd in the main timeline, and Brewfest 3rd (about 10 days later) in Limar's sidequest, so he's still ECL10 right now. Leoavor takes her down to the vault , using his password to bypass his alarm  spell and the hidden levers to disarm Jarkel's traps. He finds the Drow Lesser Metamagic Rod of Enlarge Spell for her, and also has Monty, Ben, Helra, and Alton Underbough help carry in the newest load of treasure from Zorall's caves to be stored here until it can be more thoroughly identified, divided up, and sold. Ering also later learns that Vigil returned the day before the raid team, and has been flying around with Hurock trying to gather as many birds as possible from the Hills of Light to the Waypoint's aviary .

Are these bonus feats, i.e. awarded for roleplay? Also, my CON would go up a modifier in that case, so my max HP increases; this reminds me -- I assume we'll have rested and get back some HP?

hiskel divination - history 18, spellcraft 20 summon aspect of bahamut(page 118 races of the dragon) spellcraft 22 , appraise 9 for a scroll. "if we do have time maybe we could make list and see if we can get some useful stuff from waterwend? cold weapons and powerful scrolls." -will inquire how that platinum offering is coming along? 

Max said: Then she muses, "The only evil gods I know of who were ever slain are the demon prince Orcus and the god of secrets, Vecna. But both of them were later revived, I think." Knowledge (religion), (history), and (the planes) apply. [Religion - 22, History - 21, The planes - 9] "Still counted, when you repair anything there will be some fragment left, and the fragments of evil are what we called  Taint and the Black Scroll will absorb them to prevent damage. But when it reaches the limit, that's when the Taint becomes Being . In Fu Leng's case, his soul is separated into many bit so when you read the scroll, it's just a piece of power. But if Orcus or Vecna has only one Black Scroll to collect the taint, in the worst case, one of them will come into this plane." Max said: "Ask permission? To make a spell?" Axil asks, surprised. "You certainly have a very orderly culture in Rokugan ... maybe Hamanap can send  to him too, to ask for you?" "No need to do that." Xankoris lightly shakes his head in denial. "Something which meant to be lost is meant to be lost, we are not that desperate, for now." Though the manner is calm, his voice is serious. Max said: Xankoris prays and meditates over his incense, burning a silvered feather to draw in the spirits of the air... He descends into a deep quiet, and at last his eyes open, glowing with a soft blue light. A different voice speaks from his lips, from across time and worlds; soft and feminine, but resonant with power: "I am Asahina Midori, and I have heard your plea for insight. The winds of destiny gather now about you, and a great storm is coming, such as the world has not seen in long ages. I see a dragon taking flight, and a fallen hero leading an army of darkness. Yet you have time to prepare, and must not waste it--for when the storm comes, it shall be stronger than you expected." The magic fades, and Xankoris is himself once more. "How strange..." Hamanap muses. "It sounded like she was saying yes , that Xankoris has at least four weeks to master this new spell, but I thought the divination  spell could only see a week into the future?" Knowledge (history), (religion), and Spellcraft apply. [Religion - 20, History - 14, Spellcraft - 28] "Again, still counted. My theory is the kami will answer if the action happens in one week, so I emphasized on the starting point, not the ending; therefore, it worked. But it's just a theory, a kami theory."

On the road home... Nate S.  said: Are these bonus feats, i.e. awarded for roleplay? Also, my CON would go up a modifier in that case, so my max HP increases; this reminds me -- I assume we'll have rested and get back some HP? Behind the curtain, they're bonuses that replace part of your overall wealth per character level, to focus more on inherent power rather than the common 3.5 trope of everyone becoming magical Iron Man with the same mandatory boring 20 magical items... something that always seemed kind of silly to me about the system. It also helps magic items to stay more special and rare, and lets you spend your money more on things that uniquely suit your character. And yes, between several good nights of sleep on the way back and Hamanap's healing spells, everyone has fully recovered their hit points and any ability damage as well. Ritt K.  said: Max  said: Then she muses, "The only evil gods I know of who were ever slain are the demon prince Orcus and the god of secrets, Vecna. But both of them were later revived, I think." Knowledge (religion), (history), and (the planes) apply. [Religion - 22, History - 21, The planes - 9] "Still counted, when you repair anything there will be some fragment left, and the fragments of evil are what we called  Taint  and the  Black Scroll  will absorb them to prevent damage. But when it reaches the limit, that's when the  Taint  becomes  Being . In Fu Leng's case, his soul is separated into many bit so when you read the scroll, it's just a piece of power. But if Orcus or Vecna has only one Black Scroll to collect the taint, in the worst case, one of them will come into this plane." You recall that Vecna was slain by a group of heroes during His brief conquest of Sigil , the City of Doors, some centuries ago. It was the only time Sigil was ever taken, after The Whispered One used some unknown trick to severely wound the city's omnipotent and mysterious protector, the Lady of Pain. However, in the months following Vecna's defeat, there were strange ripples throughout the Great Wheel , changing many small aspects of reality (ooc: this is when 3.0 updated to 3.5). Many scholars believe these were Vecna's doing, that He had somehow harnessed the power of Sigil as the hub of the Wheel to alter every plane at once in fundamental ways, probably intending to render Himself as the most powerful deity in existence--but that he was stopped before he could finish his arcane manipulations. He did reappear sometime later, apparently resurrected by unknown means, but greatly weakened. Since then, His cultists have maintained that one of the changes He made to reality was to render Himself absolutely immortal, so that even if destroyed He will always revive again, as befitting a true Lich-God (for indeed, Vecna was once a human man of bottomless ambition, and rose gradually to power as a lich, then a demi-lich, then a demi-god, and finally a true god). Orcus seems like a likelier candidate to power Tellaj's Black Scroll, though... after He was slain by the Demon Princess Kiaransalee, the drow demigoddess of revenge, His dark spirit reanimated itself as a twisted shadow of His former self. Orcus was a demigod of the undead, so in undeath He became the Wraith-God Tenebrous, a locus of concentrated evil so powerful that He could even kill other gods with a touch. Tenebrous wrought havoc for a time, slaying several other deities and demi-deities, before He was finally 'destroyed' by a coalition of deities resurrecting Orcus. But while resurrecting a normal undead creature back to life usually completely eradicates the undead form, gods are not so easily obliterated... it's said that the core of divinity in Tenebrous, the power that makes a deity a deity, was unique to Him, and not just Orcus's in an undead shape. Because of this, when Tenebrous's body was destroyed by the resurrection, some vestige of His soul remained, and fled to a place beyond death and time where other dead gods sleep, to await His return. If the Black Scrolls do indeed feed on the power of dead evil gods, then this one most likely will draw on the vestige of Tenebrous, and might possibly even return him to reality once more. Ritt K. said: Max said: "Ask permission? To make a spell?" Axil asks, surprised. "You certainly have a very orderly culture in Rokugan ... maybe Hamanap can send  to him too, to ask for you?" "No need to do that." Xankoris lightly shakes his head in denial. "Something which meant to be lost is meant to be lost, we are not that desperate, for now." Though the manner is calm, his voice is serious. Axil nods slowly, seeming to recognize the weight of respect in your voice. Hamanap gives you a reassuring smile, adding "For magics as well as people, it is often best to leave the dead to their rest." At the war council... Ritt K. said: Max said: Xankoris prays and meditates over his incense, burning a silvered feather to draw in the spirits of the air... He descends into a deep quiet, and at last his eyes open, glowing with a soft blue light. A different voice speaks from his lips, from across time and worlds; soft and feminine, but resonant with power: "I am Asahina Midori, and I have heard your plea for insight. The winds of destiny gather now about you, and a great storm is coming, such as the world has not seen in long ages. I see a dragon taking flight, and a fallen hero leading an army of darkness. Yet you have time to prepare, and must not waste it--for when the storm comes, it shall be stronger than you expected." The magic fades, and Xankoris is himself once more. "How strange..." Hamanap muses. "It sounded like she was saying yes , that Xankoris has at least four weeks to master this new spell, but I thought the divination  spell could only see a week into the future?" Knowledge (history), (religion), and Spellcraft apply. [Religion - 20, History - 14, Spellcraft - 28] "Again, still counted. My theory is the kami will answer if the action happens in one week, so I emphasized on the starting point, not the ending; therefore, it worked. But it's just a theory, a kami theory." Josh  said: hiskel divination - history 18, spellcraft 20 Hiskel thinks Xankoris may be right, and knows that the spell can be a little different depending on the nature of the deity the caster serves. Xankoris also suspects a possibility that his ancestors may have helped to stretch the limits of the spell to warn him of this greater threat. Josh  said: hiskel summon aspect of bahamut(page 118 races of the dragon) spellcraft 22 , appraise 9 for a scroll. "if we do have time maybe we could make list and see if we can get some useful stuff from waterwend? cold weapons and powerful scrolls." -will inquire how that platinum offering is coming along?  You've heard of that spell, though you know it's rare... a scroll would be hard to find, and might cost a couple thousand gold pieces. "It would be good to stock up, yeah..." Leoavor agrees, nodding and chewing thoughtfully on a bite of cheese. "If Xankoris's ancestor was right, we should have enough time to send a team to sell off loot and look for suitable weapons against red dragons." After the council, you stop by the workshop  and learn that Alton Highhill is still working on your wooden statuette, though he's been more busy lately with preparations for the anticipated invasion, on Leoavor's orders.

On the road home... Ritt K.  said: "No need to do that." Xankoris lightly shakes his head in denial. "Something which meant to be lost is meant to be lost, we are not that desperate, for now." Though the manner is calm, his voice is serious. "This Daimyo, is he your lord or the equivalent in your culture? It might be none of my business but were they forgot intentionally? Or are you saying that if Fate somehow decided that they should be lost we should respect it?"  Max  said: Then she muses, "The only evil gods I know of who were ever slain are the demon prince Orcus and the god of secrets, Vecna. But both of them were later revived, I think." Knowledge (religion), (history), and (the planes) apply. Religion: 25, History: 16, The Planes: 27 Ering strokes his chin, interested in the conversation. "So... The Black Scrolls absorb the Taint and the soul of very powerful evil beings? Is that their primary purpose or more of a side effect? How do we know if Tenebrous' soul is in one or multiple scrolls?" "Oh and while we are on the topic, do you know if only people from Rokugan can be affected by the Taint like you are?" At the war council... Max  said: "We ought to start using that sign-countersign thing that Kendling was having his soldiers use in the caves..." Hamanap ponders, and explains it to Leoavor. Verne suggests, "Perhaps we ought to be stocking up on extra ammunition too, and piling it at the ready around the walls. Bows and crossbows can rain down hell on infantry, and a direct hit from a trebuchet could probably do a number on one of those flying half-dragons. That way if they bring the fight to the air, we can give you more support, Avariel. Kraggan can fight in the air too, with her gift of animal shapes." Ering nods. "Let's inform our soldiers and everyone living in the Waypoint then. How about... light/morning and bright/moon? A trebuchet operated by an expert is usually accurate enough to hit defensive formations or large infantry regiments, flying creatures may be too nimble, a ballista would be the perfect weapon for them, but we could test it in the coming days... I know a spell that grants flight to a creature for about ten minutes, so I may be able to contribute... Or to send someone else along." Max  said: "I spent some time with Kaladesh during the Siege of  Waterwend ," Verne pipes up. "We were on guard duty together, watching the northern mouth of the  Stone River  for reinforcements from Rith. He's a young copper dragon, about my size... decent at stealth recon, which is ironic since he loves an audience. He really kept our spirits up during the long days of watching the river, with all his jokes and capering. Seemed like a good guy, reliable and kind-hearted, and the Red King trusts him enough to keep him in his inner circle." Ering mumbles."Maybe he's too young..." "Is he sworn to the Red King? I was thinking that maybe we should alert him that Zorall may be leaving his caves without many defenses, bu I'm not sure he'll be able to hold the territory alone." Max  said: "Xankoris prays and meditates over his incense, burning a silvered feather to draw in the spirits of the air... He descends into a deep quiet, and at last his eyes open, glowing with a soft blue light." "That aligns perfectly with the prophecy of the Kurta tribe... And it does sound like they will be attacking together..." Ering stares at the table for a few moments, a little less secure over their own victory. "Are we able to determine the origin of this storm? Natural or magical? And are we sure the subject is not the Storm with a capital S? The red wizard that was Scrying on us some time ago?" After the war council... Spellcraft for the Lexicon: 26

hiskel lexicon symbols, true speak 19, spell craft 23 -will share what she knows of the summon aspect of bahamut spell with Hammun  "if we can find a scroll, do you think you could use it against Zorall? or perhaps he would let me cast it with a suitable offering?" after the council "I've no idea whose on Shurreons council and i suspect I'll only find out if we beat him in this war."

Josh said: "I've no idea whose on Shurreons council and i suspect I'll only find out if we beat him in this war." "Fireshrieker, Zorral and Moonshadow should all be on the council, I'll search in my notes if I know something more detailed about it. Do you think you could come up with the Truename of fire by yourself?"

"it would probably take me centuries of researching different flames and meditations...if it's Zorall maybe i'll get the chance to hear it in our battle." -"I had thought I'd have to go to the plane of fire to learn it."  (knowledge  planes 20, untrained)

Dawi  said: "This Daimyo, is he your lord or the equivalent in your culture? It might be none of my business but were they forgot intentionally? Or are you saying that if Fate somehow decided that they should be lost we should respect it?"  "You're probably right. The Emperor ruled the empire, the Shogunate ruled the military, clan daimyo ruled clan, family daimyo ruled family, and provincial daimyo ruled the particular area. Mostly they forgot intentionally whether it's too dangerous to use, unhonorable, or just because." Ering strokes his chin, interested in the conversation. "So... The Black Scrolls absorb the Taint and the soul of very powerful evil beings? Is that their primary purpose or more of a side effect? How do we know if Tenebrous' soul is in one or multiple scrolls?" "Oh and while we are on the topic, do you know if only people from Rokugan can be affected by the Taint like you are?" "Taint absorption is the purpose of the scrolls, but for how many, I don't know." Xankoris scratches his head, "That... I also do not know. I've never heard of any Tainted gaijin before."

On the road home... Dawi said: Max  said: Then she muses, "The only evil gods I know of who were ever slain are the demon prince Orcus and the god of secrets, Vecna. But both of them were later revived, I think." Knowledge (religion), (history), and (the planes) apply. Religion: 25, History: 16, The Planes: 27 You know much of the same stories as Xankoris, but the versions you read focused more on the planar significance; for example, you know that Sigil floats atop the infinitely tall Spire that rises from the center of the Concordant Domain of the Outlands , a special outer plane that borders all the other ones. The Spire is considered by scholars to be the metaphysical axle around which the Great Wheel of all planes rotates, and the Outlands are considered neutral ground by all outsiders, of whom every variety can be found there. Sigil itself is built along the inner surface of a vast ring that rotates over the spire's tip, and is perhaps the most famous city in the multiverse, the setting of countless wild tales and legends. It has many special traits, chief among them the countless portals found all throughout it, which lead to locations in many other planes. Because of these, Sigil is a city of trade, built and ruled by merchants from every plane, where anything can be found for the right price. It is said to be home to every race in existence, and even some not in existence, and is full of wondrous magic of every sort. Different districts of the city are controlled by various merchant factions or guilds, most conforming to a particular alignment and thus popular with outsiders of that alignment, and there is no centralized authority or law, save one-- don't piss off the Lady of Pain. Silent, enigmatic, and seemingly all-powerful, She floats through the city's streets, never changing Her expression or moving a muscle (in fact, it's still unknown if Her "face" is actually a mask). Anyone who tries to worship Her is shredded by the shadow of Her bladed hair/headdress (no one's sure which that is, either), and anyone who threatens the stability of Sigil or tries to attack Her is sent into an extradimensional maze  (Spellcraft applies) from which very few have ever returned. She never leaves the city, though, and only twice has She ever been seriously threatened... Once, when the true neutral God of Doors set up shop in Sigil and gathered enough followers and power there that He was able to start altering the shape of the city, at which point the Lady of Pain appeared before him, slew him in a single blow, and left. The second time was Vecna's assault, which was also the only time She was ever injured. Sages still debate about what secret magic He used to hurt her, but whatever it was, it was powerful enough to leave Her crippled and trapped, helpless to stop Him as He harnessed Sigil to begin altering the flow of magic and energy throughout the Great Wheel. Only after He was defeated by the cleverness of a group of epic heroes was the Lady of Pain able to move freely once more, and stabilize the city. She could not undo what Vecna had done, though, or if She could, She chose not to. The Lady is generally considered a deity, though this is also still debated. All other deities depend upon worship for their power and thus spend most of their time spreading their faith while simultaneously trying to reduce the popularity of their rivals and enemies. In contrast, the Lady of Pain never speaks of Her ideals (or anything else), flays Her worshippers to death, and doesn't answer prayers (though there are tales of mages who claim to be Her clerics, most scholars dismiss them as charlatans); yet, despite the scarcity of worship for Her, She seems to have few, if any, limits to Her power. This paradox is the main reason why stories of Her have fascinated people for millennia. At the war council... Dawi said: Max  said: "We ought to start using that sign-countersign thing that Kendling was having his soldiers use in the caves..." Hamanap ponders, and explains it to Leoavor. Verne suggests, "Perhaps we ought to be stocking up on extra ammunition too, and piling it at the ready around the walls. Bows and crossbows can rain down hell on infantry, and a direct hit from a trebuchet could probably do a number on one of those flying half-dragons. That way if they bring the fight to the air, we can give you more support, Avariel. Kraggan can fight in the air too, with her gift of animal shapes." Ering nods. "Let's inform our soldiers and everyone living in the Waypoint then. How about... light/morning and bright/moon? A trebuchet operated by an expert is usually accurate enough to hit defensive formations or large infantry regiments, flying creatures may be too nimble, a ballista would be the perfect weapon for them, but we could test it in the coming days... I know a spell that grants flight to a creature for about ten minutes, so I may be able to contribute... Or to send someone else along." "Yes sir," Verne affirms. "I'll start informing the guards." Elk nods, "Works for me too. We don't usually go for that kinda thing in the Red King's army, but he told me ta follow yer lead, so I'll jostle the boys until they get the message." Verne listens closely to your explanation about the siege weapons as well. "A ballista... that's a complicated weapon to build. We'll need to find a skilled atillator. Another thing to look into in Waterwend ." Leoavor suggests "maybe we could mount them on the towers, for maximum field of fire? That way they wouldn't get in the way of the trebuchets too."   Dawi said: Max  said: "I spent some time with Kaladesh during the Siege of  Waterwend ," Verne pipes up. "We were on guard duty together, watching the northern mouth of the  Stone River  for reinforcements from Rith. He's a young copper dragon, about my size... decent at stealth recon, which is ironic since he loves an audience. He really kept our spirits up during the long days of watching the river, with all his jokes and capering. Seemed like a good guy, reliable and kind-hearted, and the Red King trusts him enough to keep him in his inner circle." Ering mumbles."Maybe he's too young..." "Is he sworn to the Red King? I was thinking that maybe we should alert him that Zorall may be leaving his caves without many defenses, bu I'm not sure he'll be able to hold the territory alone." "Yes sir, he is," Verne nods. "I definitely don't think he could take Zorall's caves by himself, though."  "If Zorall's army is defeated here, the caves will ripe for conquest..." Hamanap points out. "We, or the Red King, could move in to free the rest of the slaves held there and destroy all their evil shrines and altars." Dawi said: Max  said: "Xankoris prays and meditates over his incense, burning a silvered feather to draw in the spirits of the air... He descends into a deep quiet, and at last his eyes open, glowing with a soft blue light." "That aligns perfectly with the prophecy of the Kurta tribe... And it does sound like they will be attacking together..." Ering stares at the table for a few moments, a little less secure over their own victory. "Are we able to determine the origin of this storm? Natural or magical? And are we sure the subject is not the Storm with a capital S? The red wizard that was Scrying on us some time ago?" "Rizdar?" Leoavor looks troubled as well. "When Xankoris spied on him back, it did sound like he was preparing to join the war... if he links up with Kendling and Zorall, we'd be overwhelmed. We need to find out more about what they're planning, we might need reinforcements of our own." Hamanap nods sagely. "Prophecy is often layered with meaning, for the future is never completely certain. It may well be that more than one kind of storm is destined to fall here." "We ought to find out more about Rizdar the Storm as well," Verne suggests. " 'Know thy enemy as thyself.' " After the war council... Josh  said: "I've no idea whose on Shurreons council and i suspect I'll only find out if we beat him in this war." Dawi  said: "Fireshrieker, Zorral and Moonshadow should all be on the council, I'll search in my notes if I know something more detailed about it. Do you think you could come up with the Truename of fire by yourself?" Josh  said: "it would probably take me centuries of researching different flames and meditations...if it's Zorall maybe i'll get the chance to hear it in our battle." -"I had thought I'd have to go to the plane of fire to learn it."  (knowledge  planes 20, untrained) "Zorall does seem the likeliest, as a red dragon," Leoavor agrees. "Hrm, but..." Hamanap seems troubled by something. " Maekrivth  is an odd choice of word, isn't it?" she asks, using the Draconic word for 'council' the Lexicon spelt out despite the rest of what she says being spoken in Common. "If it meant his vassals, like Zorall and Moonshadow, evuthir  would be a better choice, it has more of a connotation of one who holds power of their own. Maekrivth  can also mean counse lors , advisors or wise servants... perhaps it means Shurreon's own personal followers, those he trusts to lead his own soldiers." Knowledge (nobility & royalty) applies. "In any case," she digresses, "if you want to visit the Elemental Plane of Fire when this is over, we could probably arrange that, Hiskel. Bahamut can grant me a spell to bring us there, and between us I am sure we can cast enough wards to protect us both from the endless flames for at least a short time. Perhaps in that span, you can gain some greater insight from the source of all fire?" Hiskel has also heard the legend that all fire in the multiverse originated there, as well as tales of its terrible heat: everything, everywhere, always aflame or just made of flames. It would take a great deal of protective spells to keep even two of them safe there, and that's just from the environment itself. Although, one who had mastered the true name of fire would be incredibly powerful there... Dawi said: Spellcraft for the Lexicon: 26 Josh said: hiskel lexicon symbols, true speak 19, spell craft 23 Ering recogizes one of the strange symbols on the Lexicon, a very rare rune used in the arcane notation for advanced necromancy. It describes a fundamental relationship between lifeforce and positive energy, important for higher-level spells which manipulate life energies on a very basic level to produce powerful effects--something he only knows thanks to his specialized studies in necromancy. It's also one of a small set of runes so ancient that their origins are lost to antiquity; even the oldest books on magic reference taking them from tomes that no longer exist. From this spark of realization, he and Hiskel get into a long discussion about the odd symbols, and consult some of the books in the library , including  Unearthed Arcana (in Draconic),  Red Wizards of the Tempestus (in Draconic), Evocative Magicks and their Transpositive Graph s (in Draconic), and The Legendary Truenamers . By corellating some clues in the different books with bits and pieces of lore gathered over their long experiences, they come up with a theory: the Lexicon's special symbols, which have yet to be used in any of its answers to Hiskel's questions, are all very ancient and important runes used in advanced arcane notations. Furthermore, they may be some sort of 'metalanguage' that originally bridged the gap between the legendary 'true tongue' (in which all words are words of power, ie truenames, and to speak is to alter reality directly) and the two paths that it split into: magic (in which incantations help to access the underlying controls of reality) and modern language (in which words represent reality through layers of symbolism, which limit their power to directly affect it). If this theory is correct, it would mean that the Lich-King had also mastered truenaming to a historically significant level, and managed to uncover the lost history of these runes and their purpose in modern magic. Indeed, if Hiskel can come to fully understand all the runes and what function they serve as part of the Lexicon, it could well help her to author the holy grail of truenaming theory. Josh said: -will share what she knows of the summon aspect of bahamut spell with Hammun  "if we can find a scroll, do you think you could use it against Zorall? or perhaps he would let me cast it with a suitable offering?" "It sounds a bit beyond my level of expertise, but I could try..." Hamanap says, looking uncertain. "I would probably have a better chance of using it than you would, but with a sufficient offering the King of Good Dragons might see fit to permit you. Perhaps the destruction of that awful amulet Raliza wore?" she suggests with a significant look. "I doubt He is pleased with the Shrine of Garyx  in our common room, either..."

Max said: On the road home... The Lady is generally considered a deity, though this is also still debated. All other deities depend upon worship for their power and thus spend most of their time spreading their faith while simultaneously trying to reduce the popularity of their rivals and enemies. In contrast, the Lady of Pain never speaks of Her ideals (or anything else), flays Her worshippers to death, and doesn't answer prayers (though there are tales of mages who claim to be Her clerics, most scholars dismiss them as charlatans); yet, despite the scarcity of worship for Her, She seems to have few, if any, limits to Her power. This paradox is the main reason why stories of Her have fascinated people for millennia. "I think she needs a day off. Though I admire her, I think she should loosen herself a bit." "Actually, would you like me to call my ancestors here? We might not suited for war like Lion, but many of us know a thing or two about it."

hiskel- "why wait? we are not needed to sell and divide the treasure and I'm sure Ering and Kraggan can oversee the preparations of our defenses, if there is power to be had we should go get it." "I'd feel more confident going into this battle if I had access to hellfire."         -"how does your planar travel work? how soon can we leave? and how long do you think we can stay?        -"I believe i could manage fire resistance for 2 people for 12 hours but would be tapped for power and have nothing to let us sleep and recover so we'd have to come back each day unless you got something for the nights? are there even nights in that place?" hiskel is looking forward to a girls night out on the plane of fire. hiskel takes a moment to think. "seeing as this scroll would be a veritable deus ex machina against Zoralls presence on the battlefield, I think I should use it as my fire is currently useless against him and your healing could save lives and I'm smaller and can hide easily to keep up the concentration." -"trying to get me to burn my bridge with garyx and convert me to bahamut? didnt know you could be so devious..." "we'll work out the details if our team to waterwend can find a scroll of "summon aspect of bahamut " if not tell them to also look for a power word kill or stun scroll if we're fighting a dragon I want something big. and some scrolls or potions of Fire shield" -"definitely need more info on Ridzar the storm and his troops, though if we're expecting a storm something mundane like lighting rods on the wall could help."

At the war council... Ritt K. said: "Actually, would you like me to call my ancestors here? We might not suited for war like Lion, but many of us know a thing or two about it." "That's a good idea, Xankoris!" Hamanap says with a bright smile. "I'm sure they can offer us their wisdom. Can you pray for one experienced in battle command?" Josh  said: hiskel takes a moment to think. "seeing as this scroll would be a veritable deus ex machina against Zoralls presence on the battlefield, I think I should use it as my fire is currently useless against him and your healing could save lives and I'm smaller and can hide easily to keep up the concentration." -"trying to get me to burn my bridge with garyx and convert me to bahamut? didnt know you could be so devious..." "we'll work out the details if our team to waterwend can find a scroll of "summon aspect of bahamut " if not tell them to also look for a power word kill or stun scroll if we're fighting a dragon I want something big. and some scrolls or potions of Fire shield" "That does make sense," Hamanap admits, her serious look soon softening a bit at your counter. "The word is 'tactful', my lady of the scale. Bahamut's clergy are not as evangelical as some faiths, but it is ever our goal to spread His word." "I'll go with the team to Waterwend ," Leoavor volunteers. "I can help selling and buying magical items, as a mage, and I know my way around there pretty well now." Josh  said: -"definitely need more info on Ridzar the storm and his troops, though if we're expecting a storm something mundane like lighting rods on the wall could help." "Lightning rods?" Verne asks, raising a brow. "Metal poles to attract lightning and draw it harmlessly into the stone," Leoavor explains. "I can give instructions to Gunnloda and Alton Highhill to get to work on some." "Perhaps you can gather some information about Rizdar in Waterwend , too?" Hamanap suggests. After the war council... Josh said: hiskel- "why wait? we are not needed to sell and divide the treasure and I'm sure Ering and Kraggan can oversee the preparations of our defenses, if there is power to be had we should go get it." "I'd feel more confident going into this battle if I had access to hellfire."         -"how does your planar travel work? how soon can we leave? and how long do you think we can stay?        -"I believe i could manage fire resistance for 2 people for 12 hours but would be tapped for power and have nothing to let us sleep and recover so we'd have to come back each day unless you got something for the nights? are there even nights in that place?" hiskel is looking forward to a girls night out on the plane of fire. Hamanap narrows her eyes. "First of all, I am not going to help you learn to harness hellfire . I'm sure you could accomplish the same result with holy flame, like that which Bahamut would grant me for a flame strike  spell." After letting that settle in for a moment, she continues, "I can pray for spells that will protect us from heat, but each will only last about two hours. Enough to ward us both for perhaps..." she pauses, doing some mental arithmetic, "...11 hours or so. That's assuming the heat is not very intense, no more than a hearthfire. I do not know a great deal about the Elemental Planes, unfortunately, but I suppose neither of us are strangers to risk." "The only real concern I have," she admits, "is that my plane shift  spell is not terribly reliable. It can bring a small group safely to any plane, but it can only target a destination to an accuracy of about 500 miles... so upon returning, we might easily find ourselves hundreds of miles away from the Waypoint , perhaps unable to return before our enemies attack. It would be much safer to bring along Ering or Leoavor, so that they could teleport  us home if needed."

Max said: At the war council... "That's a good idea, Xankoris!" Hamanap says with a bright smile. "I'm sure they can offer us their wisdom. Can you pray for one experienced in battle command?" "I, certainly, can try." Xankoris casts Defender from Beyond,  While reading spell's script in Spirit Tongue he also adds: " My ancestors, I call upon and summon one of you to guide us the way of the wind, the way of the war, the way of the crane. "

Hiskel "I didnt even know holy fire was a thing, tell me more." -Will see if either Ering or leo want to volunteer for a road trip to fire land.

(Spellcraft check for Maze : 29) "Maybe she is some sort of anti-deity? Maybe she gets weaker if people worship her..." Ering shrugs. "At least we don't have to worry about her." "We could consider installing ballistas... But they are expensive, hard to load and would need skilled soldiers operating them. Perhaps our money is best spent elsewhere." Max  said: "Rizdar?" Leoavor looks troubled as well. "When Xankoris spied on him back, it  did  sound like he was preparing to join the war... if he links up with Kendling and Zorall, we'd be overwhelmed. We need to find out more about what they're planning, we might need reinforcements of our own." Ering ponders for moment, playing with the almost empty chalice in front of him. "Knowing who and when will be besieging the Waypoint should be our number one priority. If divinations are limited to a week, would it be possible to just ask if Rizdar has been planning to attack us? The siege may come later, but he could be already making plans." (Knowledge Nobility: 10) "I couldn't possibly say no to an excursion to another plane." Ering smiles. "I know the same spell that Hiskel has been using to ward against the dragon breaths during our raids, but it may not be enough... I know that there is an incantation, Planar Tolerance , that would ward us from all harmful effects native to a fire-dominant plane for about ten hours, but it would be a difficult spell do acquire."  "However... I feel that this endeavor might be too risky to undertake while waiting for a siege. Planar travel is very dangerous, and if anything happened to us in that plane our absence will be definitely felt in the battle."

Dawi said: (Spellcraft check for Maze : 29) "Maybe she is some sort of anti-deity? Maybe she gets weaker if people worship her..." Ering shrugs. "At least we don't have to worry about her." You know that maze  is a powerful offensive teleportation spell that banishes the subject into an extradimensional labyrinth of force planes. But while a powerful mage's maze  only lasts 10 minutes at most, they say that the Lady of Pain maintains a set of permanent mazes  into which She sends those who trouble Her, to wander until they find an exit back into Sigil ... which few do, sometimes days or even months later, often half-mad from the experience.

when they return Hiskel will approach xankoris, Hammun and avariel about dropping their claims on the emerald  7000/2=3500 vendor price divided by 8 shares would be 437 gold 5 silver each Hiskel will also meet with kraggan to ask her to drop her share and the 2 party claims on it -hiskel will point out that while Limar is heroic and wont betray or abandoned them in their current time of need , It would be nice to have some payment for when he comes to fight against the storm. -also feel i should mention I intend to have Limar eat the gem for power, its a dragon thing Max does dont know if theres any ingame knowledge for it. -hiskel will cancel the platinum dragon stattuete and take back the 100 platinum she put into it. -Sja'renj watches all the hustle and bustle and wonders where his cut is but drops it, doubting he'd be alive after this fight to even take it to his people.

Josh said: -also feel i should mention I intend to have Limar eat the gem for power, its a dragon thing Max does dont know if theres any ingame knowledge for it. -hiskel will cancel the platinum dragon stattuete and take back the 100 platinum she put into it. Knowledge (arcana) applies. When you return to the Waypoint , you find that Alton Highhill has completed the wooden statuette; he gives it to you, so if you want to later coat it with platinum, it should be easier. Josh said: -Sja'renj watches all the hustle and bustle and wonders where his cut is but drops it, doubting he'd be alive after this fight to even take it to his people. As Sja'renj is exploring and trying to stay out from underfoot, he notices another kobold approaching him. "Hello, brother," he yips in Draconic. "I'm Jarkel, a trapsmith of the great Limar. What brings you to his fortress?"

hiskel- knowledge arcana-25 thanks Alton. she'll put it in her room Sja'renj- "greetings , the Wayfinders have freed the Kurta tribe from the horny dragon and I am here to repay the debt by fighting the battle to come."

Josh said: hiskel- knowledge arcana-25 thanks Alton. she'll put it in her room You've heard that true dragons sometimes eat some of their own hoards. Dragon digestive systems are among the most powerful in the world, and can break down almost anything... but in addition to providing nutrition, precious metals and gems can migrate into their scales to grant them greater hardness and resilience over time. Most living creatures can't digest stones at all, and while precious metals can spread into their tissues, this usually leads to a slow and horrible death from heavy metal poisoning. Some dragons who eat enough treasure even begin to take on its gleam, and brag of the incredible luster it grants to their scales. There are even legends of dragons who have eaten so many jewels that whole visible gemstones accrete among their scales, providing an additional layer of natural armor that few weapons can penetrate. While bringing the statuette to your room, you pass by Axil's and notice that he's in the midst of finally decorating it. The bed is made up with luxurious linens, a painting is hung on one wall across from a new desk, and he's carefully unrolling several very rich rugs. Knowledge (history) applies. Josh said: Sja'renj- "greetings , the Wayfinders have freed the Kurta tribe from the horny dragon and I am here to repay the debt by fighting the battle to come." "Kurta tribe?" Jarkel yaps in surprise, scratching the scales on the side of his neck. "I think I've heard of them... an uncle of mine told me his great aunt was of the Kurta, but I didn't know the tribe still existed. I'm from the Tekmet tribe to the north; my comrades Yelkyn and Kuklet are too, but they're off with our lord Limar on an important mission." 

SJa'renj " thats nice, are you planning on fighting?"

Josh said: SJa'renj " thats nice, are you planning on fighting?" "I'm not much of a fighter, to be honest, but I know how to hold a spear. I'll do my part when the time comes," Jarkel yips. This is the kobold way, of course: everyone does their part for the tribe. Josh  said: Hiskel will pick up that blue dragon scale for 20 gold and put it on the tiamat shrine. When you return to the  Waypoint , Alton Highhill helps you affix the silver-framed scale firmly to the  Shrine of Tiamat 's blue head. It goes well with Limar's scales on the green head and the scales you took from Zorall's children on the red one. Once finished, the blue head glows briefly, and you feel Tiamat's blessing upon you: you gain two extra damage dice on any breath weapons you might produce for the next 6 days.

During the next war council when everyone (save Xankoris) has returned from Waterwend , Hamanap tells the others in the lead-lined councilroom the news from your distant allies, then sends it to Xankoris so everyone will stay on the same page. "To the south, Kirin of Bowhery will come to fight with us, and warn the Companions there of the danger if the Waypoint were to fall. To the north, Oskar of the Deathwalkers tells of skirmishes with forces of Zanzibar the Mad and his vassal Rouphon of the Rune-Claws in the southern parts of their territories, and signs of forces massing and heading south from the nearby lands of Rizdar the Storm." She pauses to let the import of this news sink in, then continues, "He has vowed to send someone from his guild to help us, but admitted he cannot spare many of his best sword-hands from their own war. The Red King's priestess of chaos, Vadania, shared news of small platoons of their forces liberating captive thorps from soldiers of Shurreon and Zorall all over the southeast, and said she'll see about sending us some more reinforcements as well." While the loot team was in Waterwend , Axil spent some time in the Waypoint 's library researching illusion and enchantment spells while sipping his fine wine. When Ering shares the rumors they were able to gather about Rizdar, Axil recognizes the name of his bodyguard, Ralad Wodheim, from one of the library 's books: Legends of the Wodheim Family ! Examining the book reveals a great amount of information about them: Dwelling in the southwestern mountains of the Storm Lands , the Wodheims are an ancient and noble line, and possess a unique magical gift: the Freyjas. Each member of this family has this Freyjas, the power to instantaneously create and shape a 5' cube of ice per hit die, once per day. After being shaped, it is normal nonmagical ice in every respect, except that the user is never harmed or impeded by it in any way (they don't slip on it, weapons made of it can't injure them, etc), though this is a supernatural property of the user, not the ice itself. One hand must be free to activate the ability, which the ice flows out of. The Wodheim family dwells in a massive fortress made of their own ice which protects them from the windy, frozen conditions of the Storm Lands . The subzero climate keeps it from melting, while the slick courtyards and floors, and freezing interior, make it difficult to assault. Since the climate outside is still cold year-round, many Wodheims still learn feats or spells to ward them from the cold. Many seek out adventures to hone their gift, and to bring back honor for the family's name and wealth for the family's treasuries. They are a proudly human family, but their gift will still pass to the rare half-elf, half-orc, or other halfbreed child; these children usually must prove themselves deserving carriers of the gift before being permitted to bear the family name. The book is full of tales about the deeds of great Wodheims, often using their Freyjas in clever ways to turn the tides of battle in their favor: making a cage of ice around a foe, splitting an enemy force with a wall of ice, forming a boat of ice to escape across a deadly river, forming a sword of ice when their own was shattered, etc. After Leoavor and Ering depart again for Treefall , preparations continue at the fortress... Verne and Enrique continue to drill the soldiers, the craftsmen busily assemble barrels for water and spare ammunition, the farmers gather in as much of the crop early as they can, and the herders slaughter and preserve all the meat they're able to. Hamanap and Kraggan both begin preparing lots of detect poison orisons and a couple purify food and drink  each day, so they can spot check the food prepared in the kitchens at mealtimes and the water brought in for drinking. Kraggan and her druidic ally from Waterwend 's Church of Pelor , Osborn Paddlewood, begin working in the Hills  around the fortress, trying to coax up the native plants into a natural wall of hedges that might slow down a ground force. They also spend time talking to the wildlife, trying to convince the small creatures of the land to attack your enemies, and Kraggan helps Vigil and Hurock to gather the aid of the local birds. I need 4 Diplomacy checks from Vigil for that. Key, a messenger raven Kraggan befriended a few months ago who sometimes stays at the Waypoint 's aviary , also lends a wing.

Max said: During the next war council when everyone (save Xankoris) has returned from Waterwend , Hamanap tells the others in the lead-lined councilroom the news from your distant allies, then sends it to Xankoris so everyone will stay on the same page. "To the south, Kirin of Bowhery will come to fight with us, and warn the Companions there of the danger if the Waypoint were to fall. To the north, Oskar of the Deathwalkers tells of skirmishes with forces of Zanzibar the Mad and his vassal Rouphon of the Rune-Claws in the southern parts of their territories, and signs of forces massing and heading south from the nearby lands of Rizdar the Storm." She pauses to let the import of this news sink in, then continues, "He has vowed to send someone from his guild to help us, but admitted he cannot spare many of his best sword-hands from their own war. The Red King's priestess of chaos, Vadania, shared news of small platoons of their forces liberating captive thorps from soldiers of Shurreon and Zorall all over the southeast, and said she'll see about sending us some more reinforcements as well." Before entering the councilroom Ering takes Hamanap aside and quietly shares some of his worries. "Do you think we should inform everyone about the last part of Ehlonna's prophecy and of Xankoris' strange behavior? I will be going to Treefall with Leo, so it might be wiser to try and speak with him first."   Ering straightens his posture as soon as he hears the news about Rizdar. "He is a very powerful evoker. Even without considering his bodyguards I am not sure I could defeat him in a one on one duel. Does anyone know if Rizdar has any enemies? We could learn a great deal about what he is capable of if we spoke to someone that has fought him."   "It is clear that the siege of the Waypoint will no longer be a battle between us and Zorall. It will be a key event in the whole Stone-River War, and a fight that we can't afford to lose. Since the stability of the whole region is at risk we should double our efforts in finding allies and reinforcements; we have done a good job so far but I fear it might not be enough. It is time to call in any favors we are owed and all contacts that might be of help. After our research in Treefall I will Teleport to Base Camp and see if the Terolous Military can send some troops, maybe even directly from Skyshroud. And maybe we should even consider hiring a certain guild from Treefall." "Ralad Wodheim… I thought that name sounded familiar… I am pretty sure we have a favor note from him in our vaults." Ering then turns to Axil. "Leo and I have hired about ten mercenaries in Waterwend, they seemed regular fighter looking for coin, of course we had to pay them five times their standard rate when they found out who they will be facing, but that is fair. I'm sure they will fight valiantly for us, but could you keep an eye on them? You never know who might become or already be a spy." Diplomacy checks from Vigil (+2 from help already counted) 18, 5, 4, 5

(Avariel Religion: 15) Avariel smiles. “That name...it’s quite fitting.” He clasps his hands, then hovers them over the mother and child.  “ Szurai ashereth kai’am, altei zai’en kai’ur lisei Columbia tirei nu’am va’hakam lishei etor. Yisei kazakh vaku’akh, ba’aszuvam va’ashiram, banaekhum valarasam, vazaisonav altei yihei raham va’ahavam.  O rock who delights in life, grant that this newborn life named Columbia grow to be beautiful and wise. May she be resilient and strong, through sadness and through joy, through laughter and through tears, and may her life be filled with loving kindness.” He closes his eyes, then takes two steps backward and lowers his hands, bows slightly and briefly, and opens his eyes.

Nate S.  said: (Avariel Religion: 15) Avariel smiles. “That name...it’s quite fitting.” He clasps his hands, then hovers them over the mother and child.  “ Szurai ashereth kai’am, altei zai’en kai’ur lisei Columbia tirei nu’am va’hakam lishei etor. Yisei kazakh vaku’akh, ba’aszuvam va’ashiram, banaekhum valarasam, vazaisonav altei yihei raham va’ahavam.  O rock who delights in life, grant that this newborn life named Columbia grow to be beautiful and wise. May she be resilient and strong, through sadness and through joy, through laughter and through tears, and may her life be filled with loving kindness.” He closes his eyes, then takes two steps backward and lowers his hands, bows slightly and briefly, and opens his eyes. Liara cradles the fragile newborn in her arms as it suckles contentedly... and after the long chaotic night, the three of you soak in the peacefulness of the moment.  Dawi said: Before entering the councilroom Ering takes Hamanap aside and quietly shares some of his worries. "Do you think we should inform everyone about the last part of Ehlonna's prophecy and of Xankoris' strange behavior? I will be going to Treefall with Leo, so it might be wiser to try and speak with him first." Hamanap considers this for a long minute, seeming torn... "I do not think Xankoris would ever willingly betray us. But the influence of that death elemental is concerning, and he does seem to be increasingly troubled of late. It would be best to speak with him and  the others, to make sure everyone is aware of the possible danger without hiding our intentions from our friend." Dawi said: Max said: During the next war council when everyone (save Xankoris) has returned from Waterwend , Hamanap tells the others in the lead-lined councilroom the news from your distant allies, then sends it to Xankoris so everyone will stay on the same page. "To the south, Kirin of Bowhery will come to fight with us, and warn the Companions there of the danger if the Waypoint were to fall. To the north, Oskar of the Deathwalkers tells of skirmishes with forces of Zanzibar the Mad and his vassal Rouphon of the Rune-Claws in the southern parts of their territories, and signs of forces massing and heading south from the nearby lands of Rizdar the Storm." She pauses to let the import of this news sink in, then continues, "He has vowed to send someone from his guild to help us, but admitted he cannot spare many of his best sword-hands from their own war. The Red King's priestess of chaos, Vadania, shared news of small platoons of their forces liberating captive thorps from soldiers of Shurreon and Zorall all over the southeast, and said she'll see about sending us some more reinforcements as well." Ering straightens his posture as soon as he hears the news about Rizdar. "He is a very powerful evoker. Even without considering his bodyguards I am not sure I could defeat him in a one on one duel. Does anyone know if Rizdar has any enemies? We could learn a great deal about what he is capable of if we spoke to someone that has fought him." "Given that Rizdar is a vassal lord of Shurreon, he must certainly do battle with the followers of the other 2 Great Powers, Astarte and Iktharlyep..." Hamanap muses. "Most of the vassal powers tend to focus on a few particular rivals, though," Axil points out. Knowledge (nobility & royalty) applies for more specifics. Dawi said: "It is clear that the siege of the Waypoint will no longer be a battle between us and Zorall. It will be a key event in the whole Stone-River War, and a fight that we can't afford to lose. Since the stability of the whole region is at risk we should double our efforts in finding allies and reinforcements; we have done a good job so far but I fear it might not be enough. It is time to call in any favors we are owed and all contacts that might be of help. After our research in Treefall I will Teleport to Base Camp and see if the Terolous Military can send some troops, maybe even directly from Skyshroud. And maybe we should even consider hiring a certain guild from Treefall." "Ralad Wodheim… I thought that name sounded familiar… I am pretty sure we have a favor note from him in our vaults." The others nod grimly at this. "Couldn't Rizdar be marching to attack the Red King's forces, though?" Verne points out. "It wouldn't be the first time Shurreon organized a coordinated attack... Bowhery and Waterwend were assaulted the same day, too." Hamanap frowns. "I might have thought so, but the prophecies from Xankoris's ancestor and Ehlonna both mentioned a storm gathering around us. The reference seems too significant to be a coincidence. And unfortunately, we do not have many favors left to call in... I will pray that the Terolus Army sends us aid. And if Limar's luck holds, we may not have to contend with Rith's forces flanking us as well..." "Hiring the Guild seems like a good idea as well. It worked superbly in Bowhery , though they'll probably be extra wary of the same trick twice..." Axil points out. "Especially Kendling, since he was the only leader there to survive his assassin's attempt." Leoavor's gray eyes brighten. "Oh, that's right, we do  have a favor note for him... I'm not sure how much use it'll be this late in the war, though. What favor can we ask of a man whose boss is coming to kill us?" Dawi said: Ering then turns to Axil. "Leo and I have hired about ten mercenaries in Waterwend, they seemed regular fighter looking for coin, of course we had to pay them five times their standard rate when they found out who they will be facing, but that is fair. I'm sure they will fight valiantly for us, but could you keep an eye on them? You never know who might become or already be a spy." "Of course," Axil says with an easy smile. "Send a rat to catch a rat. I'll vet them again when they arrive, and keep watch to make sure they can be trusted. If any do  turn their cloaks, I'll try to flip them back... nothing more valuable than a triple-agent."

Max said: "Given that Rizdar is a vassal lord of Shurreon, he must certainly do battle with the followers of the other 2 Great Powers, Astarte and Iktharlyep..." Hamanap muses. "Most of the vassal powers tend to focus on a few particular rivals, though," Axil points out.  . Knowledge (nobility & royalty): 11 "I know that Meilin Zhongshan is sworn to an ogre mage called Prosha, a servant of Astarte. Maybe they could help us." Ering says with an uncertain tone.  Max  said: The others nod grimly at this. "Couldn't Rizdar be marching to attack the Red King's forces, though?" Verne points out. "It wouldn't be the first time Shurreon organized a coordinated attack...  Bowhery  and  Waterwend  were assaulted the same day, too." Hamanap frowns. "I might have thought so, but the prophecies from Xankoris's ancestor and Ehlonna both mentioned a storm gathering around us. The reference seems too significant to be a coincidence. And unfortunately, we do not have many favors left to call in... I will pray that the Terolus Army sends us aid. And if Limar's luck holds, we may not have to contend with Rith's forces flanking us as well..." "Hiring the Guild seems like a good idea as well. It worked superbly in  Bowhery , though they'll probably be extra wary of the same trick twice..." Axil points out. "Especially Kendling, since he was the only leader there to survive his assassin's attempt." Leoavor's gray eyes brighten. "Oh, that's right, we  do  have a favor note for him... I'm not sure how much use it'll be this late in the war, though. What favor can we ask of a man whose boss is coming to kill us?" "I remember Rizdar saying that the war in the south was going badly. Maybe he was planning to attack the Red King and Shurreon redirected him against us? "The Wodheim's magical gift is a dream come true for anyone attempting a siege. He could just... Freeze our moat, build a ladder straight to our wall or create a barrier against our projectiles. If we do decide to hire Trefall's assassins' guild he would could be a target." "Under which circumstances can a favor note be denied? what are the usual favors asked?"

Dawi said: Max said: "Given that Rizdar is a vassal lord of Shurreon, he must certainly do battle with the followers of the other 2 Great Powers, Astarte and Iktharlyep..." Hamanap muses. "Most of the vassal powers tend to focus on a few particular rivals, though," Axil points out. Knowledge (nobility & royalty): 11 "I know that Meilin Zhongshan is sworn to an ogre mage called Prosha, a servant of Astarte. Maybe they could help us." Ering says with an uncertain tone.  "Maybe that's why she's been courting our favor?" Leoavor suggests. Hamanap counters with a wry smile, "Or perhaps she's just courting Xankoris." Leoavor stifles a laugh, then says "Well, in any case he's probably the best one to approach her for help. We should ask him when we go to Treefall for research." Dawi said: Max  said: The others nod grimly at this. "Couldn't Rizdar be marching to attack the Red King's forces, though?" Verne points out. "It wouldn't be the first time Shurreon organized a coordinated attack...  Bowhery  and  Waterwend  were assaulted the same day, too." Hamanap frowns. "I might have thought so, but the prophecies from Xankoris's ancestor and Ehlonna both mentioned a storm gathering around us. The reference seems too significant to be a coincidence. And unfortunately, we do not have many favors left to call in... I will pray that the Terolus Army sends us aid. And if Limar's luck holds, we may not have to contend with Rith's forces flanking us as well..." "Hiring the Guild seems like a good idea as well. It worked superbly in  Bowhery , though they'll probably be extra wary of the same trick twice..." Axil points out. "Especially Kendling, since he was the only leader there to survive his assassin's attempt." Leoavor's gray eyes brighten. "Oh, that's right, we  do  have a favor note for him... I'm not sure how much use it'll be this late in the war, though. What favor can we ask of a man whose boss is coming to kill us?" "I remember Rizdar saying that the war in the south was going badly. Maybe he was planning to attack the Red King and Shurreon redirected him against us? "The Wodheim's magical gift is a dream come true for anyone attempting a siege. He could just... Freeze our moat, build a ladder straight to our wall or create a barrier against our projectiles. If we do decide to hire Trefall's assassins' guild he would could be a target." "Under which circumstances can a favor note be denied? what are the usual favors asked?" Verne addresses this one, as a local to the Catacombs region. "They're rarely denied, but circumstances can affect how much you get for one... I've heard stories where they were used for things like safe passage through dangerous territory, food and shelter for a week or so, sanctuary from pursuers, help in a battle, a powerful spell, expert advice, calling off a grudge, resupplying equipment... things like that."  Leo hmmms. "Maybe if we can get someone in to speak with Ralad alone, we could use the note to get some information... it doesn't sound like enough to get him to betray Rizdar, but if we're going to be facing his forces and  Kendling's, we'll need every advantage we can get."

Max said: "Maybe that's why she's been courting our favor?" Leoavor suggests. Hamanap counters with a wry smile, "Or perhaps she's just courting Xankoris." Leoavor stifles a laugh, then says "Well, in any case he's probably the best one to approach her for help. We should ask him when we go to Treefall for research." "Xankoris seemed reluctant to even accept her gift, I don't know if he would be willing to ask for her help." Ering shrugs. "But I admit that I don't know much about their culture, so it might be a different story. I'll speak with him in Treefall." Max  said: Verne addresses this one, as a local to the Catacombs region. "They're rarely denied, but circumstances can affect how much you get for one... I've heard stories where they were used for things like safe passage through dangerous territory, food and shelter for a week or so, sanctuary from pursuers, help in a battle, a powerful spell, expert advice, calling off a grudge, resupplying equipment... things like that."  Leo hmmms. "Maybe if we can get someone in to speak with Ralad alone, we could use the note to get some information... it doesn't sound like enough to get him to betray Rizdar, but if we're going to be facing his forces  and  Kendling's, we'll need every advantage we can get." "I could contact him with the Dream spell, but the message would only be one-way. I just can't see Ralad giving us anything worthwhile…" Ering sighs and starts to fidget with the platinum coin that once held the curse, kept for good luck. "There are still some preparations that we haven't done. We should contact blacksmiths in Bowhery and Waterwend, order as many caltrops as we can to hide in the Golden Hills, we should notify Traubonn to gather enough black cohosh to help all of our troops against dragon fear. We also need to know what kind of force could Rizdar muster against us. Hamanap, could you divine if he is actually planning to attack us?" "And lastly, I think we should ask the Red King for his aid. If he can manage to abandon his current campaign and retreat back at the Waypoint our chances will look significantly better. Whether he wants it or not our defeat will be a hard blow even to him."

Dawi said: Max  said: Verne addresses this one, as a local to the Catacombs region. "They're rarely denied, but circumstances can affect how much you get for one... I've heard stories where they were used for things like safe passage through dangerous territory, food and shelter for a week or so, sanctuary from pursuers, help in a battle, a powerful spell, expert advice, calling off a grudge, resupplying equipment... things like that."  Leo hmmms. "Maybe if we can get someone in to speak with Ralad alone, we could use the note to get some information... it doesn't sound like enough to get him to betray Rizdar, but if we're going to be facing his forces  and  Kendling's, we'll need every advantage we can get." "I could contact him with the Dream spell, but the message would only be one-way. I just can't see Ralad giving us anything worthwhile…" Ering sighs and starts to fidget with the platinum coin that once held the curse, kept for good luck. "There are still some preparations that we haven't done. We should contact blacksmiths in Bowhery and Waterwend, order as many caltrops as we can to hide in the Golden Hills, we should notify Traubonn to gather enough black cohosh to help all of our troops against dragon fear. We also need to know what kind of force could Rizdar muster against us. Hamanap, could you divine if he is actually planning to attack us?" "And lastly, I think we should ask the Red King for his aid. If he can manage to abandon his current campaign and retreat back at the Waypoint our chances will look significantly better. Whether he wants it or not our defeat will be a hard blow even to him." "We can always hang onto the Favor Note for now, and hope for an opportunity to present itself," Leoavor shrugs. Hamanap volunteers to arrange for the caltrops, saying "I can put in orders via sending  to get them started as soon as possible, we have good relationships with both towns so it shouldn't be a problem." "I'll be putting in place lots of natural obstacles to the west as well," Kraggan Fateseeker points out. "Rubble, trenches, gopher holes, mud patches... to make sure Kendling's ground troops have a real rough time approaching us. Might buy us some extra time too." "Maybe you should help Traubonn gather the cohosh, when we get back from Treefall ," Leoavor says. "We'll want as much as we can get, I imagine." "I will begin periodic divinations  as well," Hamanap affirms, "and if I can confirm that Rizdar is coming, I will send  again to the Red King to ask for more help." On Brewfest 1st, Hiskel's +2 damage dice from Tiamat wears off. She asks the Lexicon "does Rizdar the Storm have any weaknesses?" and it answers cryptically "he is a sword of glass". On Brewfest 2nd, Charmaine Tealeaf, a tallfellow halfling cleric4, arrives from Waterwend 's Church of Yondalla to help with healing during the battles to come. With her comes a weathermage druid from the Church of Sheela Peryroyl , tallfellow halfling druid4 Portia Tealeaf, here to help with the healing and forecasting. On Brewfest 4th, Hamanap informs the others at the Waypoint  that Limar has asked her to meet someone at the Stonefare 's west gate, and she must borrow the Lady's Lace  for a week or so. She departs at once. Sense Motive applies. By now, there's lots of grumbling from the smallfolk about having to spend Brewfest preparing for invasion instead of celebrating, likely driven by the growing sense of anxiety... On Brewfest 5th, the middle-aged high elf cleric6 Quarion Starflower, who used to be a war cleric in Glemmeria, high priest of Waterwend 's Church of Corellon to help in the fighting, a major get! He also delivers a sealed letter from Euphemia Highhill , which reads: To my friends the Wayfinders, Breakers of Chains and saviors of Waterwend , I have recieved your missive, and I am amenable to rendering what aid I can. Slavery has long been a black mark on our good city, but as the voice of Yondalla on Oerth it is not my place to ignore the laws of my people. If we can bring an end to those laws though, and liberate the pool souls who suffer in bondage through the force of law, I would be most pleased. Come visit me at your leisure, and we can discuss at more length what aid I may be able to offer.     -High Priestess Euphemia Highhill, Temple of Yondalla, Waterwend On Brewfest 6th, Leoavor picks up the party's 10 Potions of remove fear from Nerwenye's Oils & Elixirs, and passes out 1 each to Avariel, Verne, Kraggan, Hamanap, Xankoris, Ering, Axil, Hiskel, Sja'renj, and himself.     Later that day, Viktor, Nell, and Grishnak arrive from the Deathwalkers Guild to help. Leoavor, who teleported  back, welcomes them heartily, and introduces them to the new Wayfinders. Viktor, a human paladin of Heironeous, is a strapping mixed Suloise man with dark skin and long blonde hair, whose friends teasingly call him "Sunshine". Nell is a tiefling enchantress with a very powerful presence; tall and strong, she has sharpened bharal-like horns, clawed hands, and long hair dyed a bright pink. She's disappointed to learn Xankoris is still researching his spell in Treefall , as it seems she was very much looking toward to seeing him again. The half-orcish Grishnak is unfamiliar even to the long-time Wayfinders, as she was at the Deathwalkers' headquarters in Strongtown the last times they joined forces with the Wayfinders. A bard, she has a rough charm and plays stirring orcish battle-songs on her fiddle. "Sorry we couldn't spare more of us to come and help," Viktor apologizes sincerely. "Most of our people are fighting hard in Zanzibar's lands, to put an end to his evil deeds in the north. But the terrain there is mostly forested, so Oskar had to admit I'm wasted on it... here, on the other hand, Orion and I can do a lot more out here in the Hills of Light ." On Brewfest 7th, the 10 mercenaries hired by Leoavor and Ering filter into the Waypoint , and Leoavor finds places for them to sleep as well as arranging for their pay from party funds.  At the start of Patchwall, and the traditional beginning of autumn in Oerik, the adventuring party Black Sabbath comes to the Waypoint to lend their aid. Led by the scarred and grizzled human ranger Draz Tinear, their members include the flirtacious half-elf sorceress Polgara, the drunken mountain dwarf priest of Hanseath Grahm, and the quick-witted lightfoot halfling rogue Garion. Each about as strong as Jargon, their help and experience as a team will significantly improve your forces. The same day, Hiskel asks the Lexicon "are Rizdar and Zoralls forces the only enemies we will face?" and it spells out another unusually cryptic answer: "the changeling sends his spiderlings, and one carries flame in her mouth". Then on Patchwall 4th, a sharp-tongued human cleric5/fighter2 named Rose arrives from the Church of Fharlanghn to lend her walking stick to the fights ahead, as she told Kraggan she would. With her comes a half-elf cleric1 acolyte named Drusilia from Waterwend 's Church of Pelor , to help with healing. Hamanap returns on Patchwall 5th with two letters for the party, which she shows around. She has 3 more letters which she tells Leoavor Limar asked her to deliver, and he uses Hurock to send them on to their destinations. Sense Motive applies. The two letters for the Wayfinders read as follows:          To the leader of the Wayfinders.           Limar speaks highly of your guild. Whilst I am currently dealing with the aftereffects of a successful revolution, I am unfortunately               unable to send aid. Should you survive  the coming storm I would like to meet with you.                                                                                                                                     King Yagpa of the stonefare This first letter was sealed with a sigil that looks sort of like a tiny skull was pressed into the wax. Sense Motive applies. Avariel, Ering, and Hiskel also all note that yagpa  is the Draconic word for 'liar'. The second letter is sealed with the Wayfinders' sigil, and reads:  To my friends at the point           Everythings going great, The new king is much more amiable than Rithe was. Once we finish off Zorall it should be an easy matter to free the slaves in the stone fare, relocating them might be an issue.                                                                              your good friend    Limar, ArchBishop of the Draconic cult of Tiamat, Son of Kalemne, Bringer of the Northern wind, Enshriner of the Hoard Mistress, Esteemed visitor of Chronepsis, Erector of Dragon burial sites, Favored of the Draconic Pantheon, Defender of Waterwend, Protector of Bowherey, Negotiator to the powers, Slayer of Briggor, Listener to the downtrodden, Breaker of chains, Beholder of his own hourglass, Servant to none, Stalker of  vile places, Bane of Necromancers, Taker of gems, Bearer of many symbol & sigils, the definition of chaos, Lab assistant of Murnig, Terror of the deep, Aid to lost travelers, Devourer of valuables, Friend of Taiba, The third Liar, He of the best color and race, Rithes mistake, gnomefriend, Commodore of The Finders fleet, Wayfinder. P.S. can you have the craftmen make me a new symbol of bahamut I lost mine. Hamanap also brings back with her two faces familiar to Kraggan and Leoavor, who wish to help defend the Waypoint : a half-elf sorcerer named Alphonzo and his long-term girlfriend, a lightfoot halfling wizard named Cora. They worked with Kraggan briefly at the start of her adventurers, and have apparently grown close to Limar while he's been in the Stonefare . "Let us fight together once again, and prove our friendship with the Wayfinders," Alphonzo says with an easy, boyish grin. As the weeks pass, your more long-term preparations take shape. An enormous thicket of overgrown grasses, brambles, weeds, bushes, and autumn flowers is raised like a wall around the Waypoint 's inner structures, 10 feet tall and 100 feet wide, eventually leaving the canal as the only easy access on foot. Hurock, Vigil, and Key help Kraggan to gather more birds from the Hills of Light  at the Waypoint 's aviary ... oddly, they seem more ready to come shelter there, as if sensing a coming storm. Kraggan and Osborn also gather the aid of the wild creatures around the Hills , using their strange druidic magics to convince many of them to help defend their home from the armies of darkness and flame. Natural hazards are laid for about half a mile to the west, strewing the land with difficulties for any large force that would approach. Elk and the Red King's infantry patrol the outer Hills , and the gnome flirts with Kraggan at every opportunity while she's working out there, always calling her 'Appletree'. Traubonn helps Ering to harvest black cohosh from the Hills , giving him a +2 assist. Roll an overall Craft (herbalism) check to see how much you can find, Ering. Leoavor surveys the canals and confirms they should provide sufficient drainage for Xankoris's torrential rain spell, as long as it isn't used more than once per day. Verne changes the signs/countersigns used among the guards each week, and the walls are soon lined with open barrels of water. Hamanap begins periodic divinations , which all seem to confirm that Rizdar the storm is indeed moving to join forces with Zorall against you. She sends  word to the Red King, but recieves only vague promises of what help he can spare; it seems that his own garrisons and lands are already under attack by shadowy enemies, and his cleric Vadania implies that they have good reason to believe that the attack on you will only be a diversion, and that the Red King's forces are the real  target. However, there's trouble too... beginning on Patchwall 6th, Kraggan and Hamanap begin to find occasional evidence of poisons occasionally slipped into the food stores and drinking water, several small fires break out in the thicket wall, and two of the Red King's soldiers are killed on patrol. "There must be enemy scouts about, trying to cause trouble for us" Hamanap says, when she calls a war council in the lead-lined room to discuss the matter. "Luckily, we were prepared... thanks to our cautiousness, no one was poisoned, and the fires were easily doused. But we must root out whomever is stalking us. I think we should begin scrying  upon our foes to find out more of what they're plotting."

Max said: "Maybe you should help Traubonn gather the cohosh, when we get back from  Treefall ," Leoavor says. "We'll want as much as we can get, I imagine." Ering nods. "Sure, I'll try to find some time for that." Craft (Herbalism) check: 19 (Counting the help from Traubonn and the penalty from autumn) Max  said: "Sorry we couldn't spare more of us to come and help," Viktor apologizes sincerely. "Most of our people are fighting hard in Zanzibar's lands, to put an end to his evil deeds in the north. But the terrain there is mostly forested, so Oskar had to admit I'm wasted on it... here, on the other hand, Orion and I can do a lot more out here in the  Hills of Light ." Ering will take his time to properly meet and introduce himself to everyone that came to their aid, thanking them for the support.  Max  said: On Brewfest 1st, Hiskel's +2 damage dice from Tiamat wears off. She asks the Lexicon "does Rizdar the Storm have any weaknesses?" and it answers cryptically "he is a sword of glass". If Hiskel shares this the Lexicon's messages Ering will offer his interpretation. "It's not the first time I've heard this phrase used. I could be wrong, but it probably means that Rizdar, like the vast majority of wizards, is as dangerous and destructive like a sharp and jagged sword of glass… But in the same way he can shatter easily with a few well placed blows. Maybe the secret to his demise is a good fighter like Sja'Renj, equipped spells like Invisibility and Keen Edge and a couple of strikes to the back." The second message leaves Ering stumped, still not completely familiar with all the powers in the region. "A changeling with spiderlings? Flame in mouth sounds like a dragon… But the message said her, so it can't be Zorall." First Sense Motive on Hamanap 15, second 14 Do the two letters seem to have similar handwriting, maybe written by the same person? Craft (Calligraphy) check: 22 Max  said: However, there's trouble too... beginning on Patchwall 6th, Kraggan and Hamanap begin to find occasional evidence of poisons occasionally slipped into the food stores and drinking water, several small fires break out in the thicket wall, and two of the Red King's soldiers are killed on patrol. "There must be enemy scouts about, trying to cause trouble for us" Hamanap says, when she calls a war council in the lead-lined room to discuss the matter. "Luckily, we were prepared... thanks to our cautiousness, no one was poisoned, and the fires were easily doused. But we must root out whomever is stalking us. I think we should begin scrying upon our foes to find out more of what they're plotting." "I agree, but is crucial to be sure that these attacks are coming from the outside, and not within our ranks. I am able to scry on four people each day. I will start with Kendling, Ralad Wodheim, Rizdar and even Zorall. Any other targets?  (OOC: I'll think about the scrolls and which spells to buy in the following (IRL) days, but Ering would use the spare time after Brewfest to copy them)

Hiskel is more than happy to share the lexicons insights. Hiskel will find her way out side to test some of her new spells. reciting two spells. the first doesnt have an obvious effect but the second turns her into a tiny brass dragon. truespeak 24 to try and coax out the natural fire immunity they would have. -she'll fly around a bit an debate and try to find a nice spot to test wall of fire. spot 5.

Dawi said: Max said: "Maybe you should help Traubonn gather the cohosh, when we get back from  Treefall ," Leoavor says. "We'll want as much as we can get, I imagine." Ering nods. "Sure, I'll try to find some time for that." Craft (Herbalism) check: 19 (Counting the help from Traubonn and the penalty from autumn) After searching for about a week, the two of you manage to gather 20 doses worth of black cohosh from the Hills of Light . Traubonn suggests drying and powdering it, then burning it in places where the fighting will be thickest so that the incensed smoke can spread among the soldiers. Dawi said: Max  said: Hiskel asks the Lexicon "are Rizdar and Zoralls forces the only enemies we will face?" and it spells out another unusually cryptic answer: "the changeling sends his spiderlings, and one carries flame in her mouth". The second message leaves Ering stumped, still not completely familiar with all the powers in the region. "A changeling with spiderlings? Flame in mouth sounds like a dragon… But the message said her, so it can't be Zorall." Knowledge (arcana) applies. Dawi said: First Sense Motive on Hamanap 15, second 14 Do the two letters seem to have similar handwriting, maybe written by the same person? Craft (Calligraphy) check: 22 Hamanap seems furtive and anxious when she departs, which is unusual for the normally straight-forward and earnest priestess... When she returns and shows you the letters, she has a similar air about her, and you notice Alphonzo trying to hide a laugh. The first letter is written in a more flowing, formal hand, but your critical eye and experience with handwriting notice some small details that are similar between the two documents. You do indeed suspect they were written by the same person, but with an effort made to seem like they were not. Dawi said: Max  said: However, there's trouble too... beginning on Patchwall 6th, Kraggan and Hamanap begin to find occasional evidence of poisons occasionally slipped into the food stores and drinking water, several small fires break out in the thicket wall, and two of the Red King's soldiers are killed on patrol. "There must be enemy scouts about, trying to cause trouble for us" Hamanap says, when she calls a war council in the lead-lined room to discuss the matter. "Luckily, we were prepared... thanks to our cautiousness, no one was poisoned, and the fires were easily doused. But we must root out whomever is stalking us. I think we should begin scrying upon our foes to find out more of what they're plotting." "I agree, but is crucial to be sure that these attacks are coming from the outside, and not within our ranks. I am able to scry on four people each day. I will start with Kendling, Ralad Wodheim, Rizdar and even Zorall. Any other targets?  "We might find  other useful targets during your scrying sessions," Leoavor suggests. "Commanders that they speak to, for example." "Some of Zorall's children, maybe?" Jargon shrugs. "Arzark or Zurazz, I remember they's still raidleaders." Hamanap toys with her long silvery hair, trying to remember something. "When Xankoris spied on The Storm with his Void magic, he said that the man was speaking to an apprentice or underling... what was her name... Something with an I? Inren? Irrem?" "Immrei, I think," Leoavor says. Hamanap smiles, "Yes, that was it! She might be useful to watch." Axil speaks up, adding "While I was scouting the caves, I remember overhearing gossip that Kendling might promote some new raidleaders to replace those we killed. Agrazar and Razzy were among the likeliest candidates, it seemed like." "In any case," Leoavor says, "Ering's right about the sabotage. We need to make sure we don't have a spy. Hamanap, can you prepare some kind of magic to detect lies? We can go around questioning our people to check for anyone hiding their allegience." Hamanap nods, " Zone of truth  and discern lies  ought to work. I will pray for them tomorrow." "I haven't seen anyone suspicious among our own people," Axil says, frowning. Verne waves a hand. "I'll start walking the thicket-wall at night, and see if I can find any trailsign near where the fires started. I'm a good tracker, so I might be able to catch whoever's at it." Josh said: Hiskel will find her way out side to test some of her new spells. reciting two spells. the first doesnt have an obvious effect but the second turns her into a tiny brass dragon. truespeak 24 to try and coax out the natural fire immunity they would have. -she'll fly around a bit an debate and try to find a nice spot to test wall of fire. spot 5. The form of the dragon does help a bit, and you manage to figure out the words to gain resist fire 6 in this form. To duplicate them in the future, though, you'll need a DC25 Truespeak check while in the form of any creature that normally has fire resistance or immunity (can't be improved with the DC15 usage to get +1 to fire effects, since it's already factored in). You don't see any good places to put a wall of fire  though, since there's grass everywhere and you don't want to start a brushfire...

Max said: Knowledge (arcana) applies. Knowledge (arcana): 21 (Including the +2 sacred bonus) "…Flame in her mouth. Ering thinks about other Shurreon vassals (i.e. I checked my notes) "Maybe it is referring to Fireshrieker? Kendling's Nightmare did have a mouth full of smoke." Max  said: Hamanap seems furtive and anxious when she departs, which is unusual for the normally straight-forward and earnest priestess... When she returns and shows you the letters, she has a similar air about her, and you notice Alphonzo trying to hide a laugh. The first letter is written in a more flowing, formal hand, but your critical eye and experience with handwriting notice some small details that are similar between the two documents. You do indeed suspect they were written by the same person, but with an effort made to seem like they were not. After Hamanap returns Ering asks if she wants to have a quick conversation in the council room. He will close the lead lined door and ask with a puzzled look on his face. "I couldn't help but notice your… Strange behavior. I don't want to pry in your business but I feel like some things should not be secret. The two letters you showed us, they definitely look they are penned by the same person trying two different handwriting. And we both know what Yagpa means in Draconic… Is Limar the new king of the Stonefare? Should we be concerned about the letters he sent?" I forgot to make a sense motive on the first letter with the tiny skull sigil, it's an 8. Once Ering is back from Base Camp he will be spending the days Scrying and the evenings in the aviary, finally catching up with Vigil and the other birds and observing the stars.  He will prioritize learning Earthbind and Spell Vulnerability (each will take two full days, I'll dock the cost when you say they are copied) When he is not scribing the spells he will start Scrying. Beginning with Leeman Kendling (-4 on the save, since he has his purse found in Bowhery), Ralad Wodheim (I don't think the favor note counts as a possession), Rizdar the Storm (-2 thanks to Xank's drawing) and Zorall.  

Dawi said: Max said: Knowledge (arcana) applies. Knowledge (arcana): 21 (Including the +2 sacred bonus) "…Flame in her mouth. Ering thinks about other Shurreon vassals (i.e. I checked my notes) "Maybe it is referring to Fireshrieker? Kendling's Nightmare did have a mouth full of smoke." The sacred bonus wears off this evening, but you do manage to benefit from the touch of divine guidance for this check before then. The 'fire in her mouth'  could  refer to a smoke-snorting nightmare, but nightmares aren't really 'spiderlings' in any way you can think of. If the 'changeling' is Shurreon, it could mean his vassals, but the nightmare Kendling rides is already kind of a part of Zorall's forces, so that wouldn't really be answer to Hiskel's question... you can't help feeling like you're on the wrong track entirely. It occurs to you that 'fire in her mouth' may be more metaphorical than literal. Dawi said: Once Ering is back from Base Camp he will be spending the days Scrying and the evenings in the aviary, finally catching up with Vigil and the other birds and observing the stars.  He will prioritize learning Earthbind and Spell Vulnerability (each will take two full days, I'll dock the cost when you say they are copied) You have plenty of time to learn the new spells while the Waypoint  prepares for invasion and your allies slowly filter in. During this time, Leoavor helps the guards practice with the trebuchets on the roof, using them to try to hit flying targets (with very little success, though they do get somewhat better at aiming them in general).  Leoavor and Axil also sort out the slaves and prisoners you freed from Zorall's caves... despite the impending invasion, many choose to stay on as servants of the Waypoint, perhaps out of a sense of gratitude. A few do wish to return to homes left behind though, or seek their own path, Leo buys their passage on visiting merchant boats and gives them each a small purse of silver to help them get resettled. Dawi  said: When he is not scribing the spells he will start  Scrying.  Beginning with Leeman Kendling (-4 on the save, since he has his purse found in Bowhery), Ralad Wodheim (I don't think the favor note counts as a possession), Rizdar the Storm (-2 thanks to Xank's drawing) and Zorall.   Unfortunately, your attempts to scry  meet with a lot of difficulty...  every time you try at night, and about 3/4 of the time during the days, something seems to be blocking the spell entirely, and your crystal ball shows only fog. Spellcraft applies. You do manage to break through these wards and the willpower of your targets on a few occasions, though, granting you brief views of Kendling and Ralad. From what you observe of their movements during the days, it seems like Rizdar's forces are gathering inside and overtop Zorall's caves, preparing for a large-scale march. You also see a great many drow, though, especially men, all bearing the 2-part sigil of Shurreon and the Coiled Lady... which means Shurreon's own followers. You're never able to catch them actually making any plans--they must be warding their war councils as well--but you get the sense that they're packing up a lot of Zorall's hoard to bring with them on the march, perhaps not wanting to leave it lightly guarded behind them. When you consult with Hamanap at the periodic war councils in your lead-lined room, she affirms that her divinations  align with what you've seen. "It seems likely that Shurreon will be joining in the attack, or at least reinforcing it with many of his own soldiers..." she says, looking very worried. "I think he means to smash us for good and all, with overwhelming force." On Patchwall 8th, Hiskel asks the Lexicon "can we win?" and it answers "the narrow path to victory has been laid, but you must walk it". On the 9th, the Church of Arvoreen 's champion from Waterwend , a tallfellow halfling fighter3/paladin2 named Roscoe Brushgather, arrives to help with the fighting, mounted on his war dog Garoosh, an Anatolian shepherd. On Patchwall 10th, Verne reports that he caught a woman dressed as a peasant setting fire to the thicket-wall the previous night. "I tried to stop her, but she was no peasant... she threw needles at me, then attacked me with these weird claw-glove things. They must've been poisoned... she escaped while I was disoriented, in a puff of smoke." The same day, Hamanap calls a war council to announce that her latest divination  spell suggests that your enemies are on the march. "If we still wish to harry their approach," she says, "now may be the time. But we should try to see more of how they are moving, first, I think. They will doubtless expect a raid, since that strategy worked so well in the caves."

Max said: When you consult with Hamanap at the periodic war councils in your lead-lined room, she affirms that her  divinations  align with what you've seen. "It seems likely that Shurreon will be joining in the attack, or at least reinforcing it with many of his own soldiers..." she says, looking very worried. "I think he means to smash us for good and all, with overwhelming force." The same day, Hamanap calls a war council to announce that her latest  divination  spell suggests that your enemies are on the march. "If we still wish to harry their approach," she says, "now may be the time. But we should try to see more of how they are moving, first, I think. They will doubtless expect a raid, since that strategy worked so well in the caves." Ering will sigh and start fidgeting with the platinum coin. "Shurreon too… I don't like our odds. I suppose we have done our best, let's hope it was enough." "We could send Vigil and the other birds to scout. They'll be able to tell us how big is their army and how they are marching." "Hamanap, do you thing it would be possible to lay some Glyph of Warding traps aimed at our most dangerous enemies?"

Dawi said: Max said: When you consult with Hamanap at the periodic war councils in your lead-lined room, she affirms that her  divinations  align with what you've seen. "It seems likely that Shurreon will be joining in the attack, or at least reinforcing it with many of his own soldiers..." she says, looking very worried. "I think he means to smash us for good and all, with overwhelming force." The same day, Hamanap calls a war council to announce that her latest  divination  spell suggests that your enemies are on the march. "If we still wish to harry their approach," she says, "now may be the time. But we should try to see more of how they are moving, first, I think. They will doubtless expect a raid, since that strategy worked so well in the caves." Ering will sigh and start fidgeting with the platinum coin. "Shurreon too… I don't like our odds. I suppose we have done our best, let's hope it was enough." "We could send Vigil and the other birds to scout. They'll be able to tell us how big is their army and how they are marching." "Hamanap, do you thing it would be possible to lay some Glyph of Warding traps aimed at our most dangerous enemies?" Kraggan says "I'll speak to the birds we've gathered to our side, and get them to gather what news they can." Hamanap considers... "That spell is difficult to 'aim', especially with a large force coming. The nature of traps is that they are inherently passive, so they will hit whomever trips them. I could perhaps set some on the roof, but I'm not sure what parameter I could set them to trigger on..."

Max said: Hamanap considers... "That spell is difficult to 'aim', especially with a large force coming. The nature of traps is that they are inherently passive, so they will hit whomever trips them. I could perhaps set some on the roof, but I'm not sure what parameter I could set them to trigger on..." "Maybe something related to their physical aspect? I'm sure there won't be many bald wizards at the siege."  On Brewfest 3rd, the day after his return from Base Camp, Ering will prepare two Dream spells and wait until the night. He then instructs Vigil to make sure that no one disturbs him while he is in the trance. The two targets are Brigadier General Schnizel Remand and the THM's highest ranking Arcanist (the one who sent him and his soldiers with the magic circle). If Ering knows who of the two usually goes to sleep sooner he will target him first.   Ering lights a small stick of incense and lays on his bed, eyes closed. He will chant a powerful incantation and feel a wave of tiredness wash over him, instead of fighting it the wizard will try to ride it, sailing across the oneiric tide with only the name of the recipient in his mind.   "Brigadier General Schnizel Remand, this is Lieutenant Colonel Ering Walfire. I'm contacting you by the means of a Dream spell. It is perfectly safe and secure. My mission in the Catacombs region is to link up with local Terolus Human Military presence and assist in bringing the Stone River War situation under control, if this is not enough proof I will respond to any Sending spell sent my way." Ering will brief his commanding officer on the war, the liberation of Bowhery, the Suloise raiders inland, the raids on Zorall and the upcoming siege. "Our situation is dire. I have done everything in my power to ready our forces for the siege, but our enemies are both strong and large in numbers. If we were to lose the battle only the Red King would stand between Shurreon and the surface cities, and he won't be able to defend them forever. The Coiled Lady could stand to make untold gains, enough to overcome the stalemate with the two other Great Powers and finally control the Catacombs. Skyshroud is far but not out of reach, and our kingdom can't afford a war on two fronts, especially if there is a chance that they might ally against us."   Ering will identify himself in the same way to the Arcanist, and will pass along his discoveries on the Teleportation spell. 

Dawi said: Max said: Hamanap considers... "That spell is difficult to 'aim', especially with a large force coming. The nature of traps is that they are inherently passive, so they will hit whomever trips them. I could perhaps set some on the roof, but I'm not sure what parameter I could set them to trigger on..." "Maybe something related to their physical aspect? I'm sure there won't be many bald wizards at the siege."  "I think I could specify baldness, but not magical ability. The triggers are limited to physical characteristics, race, alignment, or whether one is faithful to Bahamut. If I merely set it to go off when someone without hair passes by, it might very well blast one of our kobold allies," Hamanap explains, glancing at Sja'renj with a grateful smile. "Though they may not share my faith, people ought be judged by their deeds." Dawi said: On Brewfest 3rd, the day after his return from Base Camp, Ering will prepare two  Dream  spells and wait until the night. He then instructs Vigil to make sure that no one disturbs him while he is in the trance. The two targets are Brigadier General Schnizel Remand and the THM's highest ranking Arcanist (the one who sent him and his soldiers with the magic circle). If Ering knows who of the two usually goes to sleep sooner he will target him first.   Ering lights a small stick of incense and lays on his bed, eyes closed. He will chant a powerful incantation and feel a wave of tiredness wash over him, instead of fighting it the wizard will try to ride it, sailing across the oneiric tide with only the name of the recipient in his mind.   "Brigadier General Schnizel Remand, this is Lieutenant Colonel Ering Walfire. I'm contacting you by the means of a  Dream  spell. It is perfectly safe and secure. My mission in the Catacombs region is to link up with local Terolus Human Military presence and assist in bringing the Stone River War situation under control, if this is not enough proof I will respond to any  Sending  spell sent my way." Ering will brief his commanding officer on the war, the liberation of Bowhery, the Suloise raiders inland, the raids on Zorall and the upcoming siege. "Our situation is dire. I have done everything in my power to ready our forces for the siege, but our enemies are both strong and large in numbers. If we were to lose the battle only the Red King would stand between Shurreon and the surface cities, and he won't be able to defend them forever. The Coiled Lady could stand to make untold gains, enough to overcome the stalemate with the two other Great Powers and finally control the Catacombs. Skyshroud is far but not out of reach, and our kingdom can't afford a war on two fronts, especially if there is a chance that they might ally against us."   Ering will identify himself in the same way to the Arcanist, and will pass along his discoveries on the  Teleportation  spell.  Sorry if I was unclear about this before, but Brigadier General Schnizel Remand is  the one who sent Ering to the Catacombs. He's the high commander and Martial Archmage of MARSUB, one of the few who can operate THUMH 's special non-accompanying  teleportation circle . Given your high rank and magical skill, you report directly to him. Your message is delivered successfully, and thanks to the duration of the dream  spell you're able to pass along a great amount of information in far more detail than a mere sending  would permit.

As Hamanap lifts Kraggan's limp, broken body to carry her down into the cellars for the necessary preparations, the forest gnome suddenly coughs and chokes up blood, before sucking in a ragged breath. Hamanap shrieks in surprise, and quickly sets her down, casting a healing spell with a surge of light. Gasping and wheezing, Kraggan struggles back to consciousness as Hamanap hugs her tight, crying with relief. "I just can't believe it!" the priestess later exclaims, for the 20th time over a celebratory round of drinks. "One of her broken ribs was pressing on her heart! If I hadn't picked her up just that way, she might have died in truth... this is indeed a miracle! Praise the Lord of the North Wind!" Leoavor and Nell, who returned several minutes after the others without a scratch on them, share in the celebration of Kraggan's narrow escape from death and the party's mixed success on the raid. "I don't know what we would have done without you, Kraggan," Leoavor says, with his easy smile. "The Wayfinders really wouldn't be the same without your guidance." "Aye, good on ya, lass," Jargon says, toasting her... then adds with a wink, "Just don't go runnin' up to anymore giant rock monsters, eh?" (And on an OOC note, if you seem to be dead in a battle, CHECK IF YOU HAVE DR FIRST! lol)

OOC: Ah yes, the classic "PCs-always-forget-their-passive-abilities-because-they-so-rarely-have-them" issue Avariel will probably drop everything and come running when he hears the news, holding back tears the whole way. "...Miracles certainly happen from time to time, it's true...though I am still going to eviscerate that Zorall the next chance I get."

Xankoris looks at the sky once again before going to sleep, "Yeah, Siwan, I think it's just me."

So once the celebration winds down, the next morning a new war council is called to discuss the results of the mini-raid and plan the next one. Once the full story has been told, Hamanap says seriously "I know we're all glad for Kraggan's recovery, and it was serendipitous that Rezinov was present to help as well... but all things considered, it may be too dangerous to attempt another such attack. It sounds like most of the common soldiers simply fled, while signalling their heavier hitters to converge on you. Might it not be wiser to wait for them here, where we control the terrain and have many more allies to help us?"

Ering breathes a huge sigh of relief. "Even in disaster we have been lucky, Kraggan still lives. Imagine the loss of morale in our ranks if our leader had died before the battle, we could have lost the siege without having a chance to fight. We should count our blessings, rest for the night and reconvene as soon as possible."   During that same night Ering retreats to his quarters sooner than usual, without spending any time in the aviary. He places the carved and flaming skull on a pedestal, burns a dose of sage in the four corners of his room (Herbalism check: 8) and stands in the center, holding a chalice of red wine. He picks up a small ruby (~ 100gp) from the strongbox sitting on his desk, dropping it in the goblet, trying to recreate a small and private Ruby Convocation. "Ruby Sorceress, Eldest of the Dead, most beautiful and stern. I come to you in this darkest night not with a request but only with my infinite gratitude. Yours are our souls to take, yet you have spared our druid, filling our hearts with hope and casting away our fears like a sudden fire at midnight. Death will soon come for many of us, but death is just a path that we must all take." Ering slowly sips the wine from the cup, staring in the black sockets of the writhing skull. "Please, Accept my offer, however humble it may seem compared to your Greatness." He finishes the wine and holds the small ruby over the heatless flames.  Max said: So once the celebration winds down, the next morning a new war council is called to discuss the results of the mini-raid and plan the next one. Once the full story has been told, Hamanap says seriously "I know we're all glad for Kraggan's recovery, and it was serendipitous that Rezinov was present to help as well... but all things considered, it may be too dangerous to attempt another such attack. It sounds like most of the common soldiers simply fled, while signalling their heavier hitters to converge on you. Might it not be wiser to wait for them here, where we control the terrain and have many more allies to help us?" "We may have failed to inflict significant damage but now that we know Kraggan is safe we should focus on the positive notes of our raids. We discovered that the common soldiers rightfully fear us, that their camps have detection systems but they are not infallible. We have also learned about a new threat, one that probably could kill any of us in mere seconds. In hindsight we took massive risks for meager rewards. I don't think we should repeat our mistake unless we know for certain that we are attacking a high priority target with little risk for ourselves, and honestly I don't see it happening." "Controlling the terrain and having an advantageous position is what could give us the edge in the battle, but we mustn't forget that many of our enemies have the ability to simple ignore most of our defenses, striking where we are most vulnerable. Flyers can just avoid the overgrown vegetation, the moat and our walls, and that earth elemental can glide through stone like a fish in the water. What's stopping it from burrowing deep underground and resurfacing inside the Waypoint, free to destroy our supplies and slaughter innocents?" Knowledge (The Planes) for earth elementals: 21

Dawi  said: Ering breathes a huge sigh of relief. "Even in disaster we have been lucky, Kraggan still lives. Imagine the loss of morale in our ranks if our leader had died before the battle, we could have lost the siege without having a chance to fight. We should count our blessings, rest for the night and reconvene as soon as possible."   During that same night Ering retreats to his quarters sooner than usual, without spending any time in the aviary. He places the carved and flaming skull on a pedestal, burns a dose of sage in the four corners of his room (Herbalism check: 8) and stands in the center, holding a chalice of red wine. He picks up a small ruby (~ 100gp) from the strongbox sitting on his desk, dropping it in the goblet, trying to recreate a small and private Ruby Convocation. "Ruby Sorceress, Eldest of the Dead, most beautiful and stern. I come to you in this darkest night not with a request but only with my infinite gratitude. Yours are our souls to take, yet you have spared our druid, filling our hearts with hope and casting away our fears like a sudden fire at midnight. Death will soon come for many of us, but death is just a path that we must all take." Ering slowly sips the wine from the cup, staring in the black sockets of the writhing skull. "Please, Accept my offer, however humble it may seem compared to your Greatness." He finishes the wine and holds the small ruby over the heatless flames.  It may be the wine, or the stress of the day, but it seems to you almost like the shifting shadows in the skull's empty sockets are like the flickers of dark eyes peering back at you. As you offer the ruby, not truly expecting anything to happen without the presence of an accorded  shrine, the stone suddenly seems to catch fire, and burns away, scorching your fingertips.  A voice whispers from the long shadows thrown by the skull, wavering in intensity with the suddenly thrice-bright flicker of the flames: "the fire-bearer comes... she brings the will and the word, knowing you must have to survive the dragon... the lord of flames maneuvers in the darkness... he will move to claim that which he covets... be wary, be ready..." Then the flames suddenly extinguish, and the room is pitch-dark... for a few moments, before the skull begins slowly to burn again, in its normal way. Knowledge (arcana) applies. Dawi  said: Max  said: So once the celebration winds down, the next morning a new war council is called to discuss the results of the mini-raid and plan the next one. Once the full story has been told, Hamanap says seriously "I know we're all glad for Kraggan's recovery, and it was serendipitous that Rezinov was present to help as well... but all things considered, it may be too dangerous to attempt another such attack. It sounds like most of the common soldiers simply fled, while signalling their heavier hitters to converge on you. Might it not be wiser to wait for them here, where we control the terrain and have many more allies to help us?" "We may have failed to inflict significant damage but now that we know Kraggan is safe we should focus on the positive notes of our raids. We discovered that the common soldiers rightfully fear us, that their camps have detection systems but they are not infallible. We have also learned about a new threat, one that probably could kill any of us in mere seconds. In hindsight we took massive risks for meager rewards. I don't think we should repeat our mistake unless we know for certain that we are attacking a high priority target with little risk for ourselves, and honestly I don't see it happening." "Controlling the terrain and having an advantageous position is what could give us the edge in the battle, but we mustn't forget that many of our enemies have the ability to simple ignore most of our defenses, striking where we are most vulnerable. Flyers can just avoid the overgrown vegetation, the moat and our walls, and that earth elemental can glide through stone like a fish in the water. What's stopping it from burrowing deep underground and resurfacing inside the Waypoint, free to destroy our supplies and slaughter innocents?" Knowledge (The Planes) for earth elementals: 21 Leoavor is quick to point out "We knew they'd have some dangerous heavies with them. Our whole party together can handle those beasts a lot better than just four of us... especially with my empowering spells and Hamanap's healing." "That earth elemental... I think he's the one I heard about in the caves, that they call Cransh. Not very bright, but supposedly one of Zorall's strongest children. They said he can only move through unworked stone, though," Axil says. Leoavor nods, "He won't be able to just glide through the walls, then. Even the cellars are lined with stone blocks, to strengthen and waterproof them." This makes sense with what you know of earth elementals as well. "Couldn't he fly up with the others?" Verne asks. "You said he has wings, and we plan to make our stand from the rooftop." But you know that earth elementals' greatest strength is their weakness as well: while they are absolute masters of moving and fighting upon the earth, they are significantly weaker if both they and their opponents are not firmly planted on it. Attacking it from the air would be much safer, and it would be much less dangerous on the roof as well. Kraggan speaks up now, undaunted despite her deeply close brush with death. "I think we ought to try another raid, just more cautiously. If we can kill even one or two more of their strongest fighters, it could help us a lot in the final battle. And if too many start coming, we should just flee immediately." Hamanap looks very worried, but before she can speak up Axil says quietly "Fortune favors the bold. We shouldn't let one failure make us overcautious now."

Max said: A voice whispers from the long shadows thrown by the skull, wavering in intensity with the suddenly thrice-bright flicker of the flames: "the fire-bearer comes... she brings the will and the word, knowing you must have to survive the dragon... the lord of flames maneuvers in the darkness... he will move to claim that which he covets... be wary, be ready..." Then the flames suddenly extinguish, and the room is pitch-dark... for a few moments, before the skull begins slowly to burn again, in its normal way.  Ering ponders on the cryptic message, at the same time confused and awed by the response. "I'll be on my guard, now more than ever." Knowledge (arcana): 31 Ering scratches his chin, weighing the options. "We would have had no problems had Cransh not shown up. Perhaps our plan was too vague… We went in to destroy supplies, kill soldiers and their strongest fighters, in the end we achieved a little of everything but nothing significant. If we decide to attack again we should only focus on taking out high priority targets."

Dawi said: Max said: A voice whispers from the long shadows thrown by the skull, wavering in intensity with the suddenly thrice-bright flicker of the flames: "the fire-bearer comes... she brings the will and the word, knowing you must have to survive the dragon... the lord of flames maneuvers in the darkness... he will move to claim that which he covets... be wary, be ready..." Then the flames suddenly extinguish, and the room is pitch-dark... for a few moments, before the skull begins slowly to burn again, in its normal way.  Ering ponders on the cryptic message, at the same time confused and awed by the response. "I'll be on my guard, now more than ever." Knowledge (arcana): 31 The mentions of magic and flame make sense, as those belong to Wee Jas's portfolio. This 'fire-bearer' sounds like a specific person, perhaps a pyromancer... one of the allies yet to join your cause? 'Lord of flames' could refer to Zorall, but his army's been moving by day... unless it means he's planning a coup of some kind, maybe unknown to Shurreon, or least unknown to you .