Last we left off, you and your party had just fled Tarsis. The dragonarmies attacked the city as you were discovering that a dragon orb Supposedly is located somewhere on Icewall Glacier, far to the South. You and your friends have managed to flee the city, escaping into the cold of night with the other citizens of Tarsis fortunate enough to not have been slain or captured in the attack
Aran Tallbow Shudders in the cold night air.
Aran Tallbow: what are we going to do for a camp? The Plains are going to be cold tonight...
Avariss draws her claok more tightly around her.
Derek Crownguard looks over his shoulder to Aran but say nothing. He continues trudging through the snow.
Taurus peers around at the now homeless citizens of Tarsis. Slowly he shakes his head, despite his sadness he feels pity for them; having been through this before.
Taurus: We will need to find shelter.
Gilthanas huddles close to his sister. The two elves follow in scilence.
Brian Donner: I'm afraind that Taurus is correct, but there won't be much in way of shelter here on the Plains of Dust... The closest town to Tarsis is Bazin which is over fifty miles to the south. The town of Lantern is to the east and is perhaps just slightly shotter in distance but not in the direction we seek.
Vexin Sixtoes: Have I told you about the time I was whisked away by a powerful wizard and left to die in the snow? I built a Snow Cave! Very cozy
Avariss: Looks about.
Taurus: Vexin, can you take to the skys and scout ahead for a suitable place?
Vexin Sixtoes: Sure!
Taurus nods to Brian quietly, rolling his shoulders some as he peers to the east and then to the south.
Taurus: How much shorter is
Taurus: How much shorter is Lantern, Brian?
Vexin Sixtoes giggles as he shifts, squeaking out "I've never done THIS one before!... HOO! HOO!..." And feathers fluttering, leaps into the cold night air
Brian Donner (scratches head): probably 40 miles, give or take.
Vexin Sixtoes the Giant Owl flies up and to the south, using his now-large disc eyes to search for possible shelters
Taurus cuts a look towards Vexin as he changes form. Still amazed by the little kender and his abilities. Breaking his focus for a moment he turns his attention to Brian.
Taurus: Neither is an option, we cannot travel 40 miles in a day. We must persist south and make use of what cover we can.
Taurus: Would you agree M'Lord Crownguarde?
Derek Crownguard seems to snap out of a trance that he was in and looks blankly at Taurus.
Derek Crownguard: what? Uh... yes. We must get the orb. It lies to the south. Come along.
Taurus nods shortly, though someone concerned. He pulls his cloak around him tightly and drops back some to the elves; walking beside the pair.
Avariss looks more closely at Derek, trying to determine if anything is wrong.
Taurus (Quietly): This will help some.
Taurus casts Endure Elements on the pair, making a quiet prayer to the gods to protect them against the harsh environment. Tapping each on the shoulder before they are filled with a comfortable warmth.
Gilthanas (quietly): Thank you my friend.
Laurana gives a smile of thanks to Taurus
Ahead on the road, where Vexin in owl form had flown off to, you see two flares of flames shot into the sky. Then, moments later, a warm glow of fire is seen near ground level. The light quickly fades and disappears entirely.
Taurus waves his hand over his shield, letting it burst into a bright light. A becon for Vexin so he might spot them from the sky's when he returns. Truding on he lowers the visor on his helm to help stay off the bite of the wind.
Taurus: Over there!
Taurus points into the distance.
Avariss: I see, Is it Vexin?
Aran Tallbow: lets go! It's warmth, that's all that matters!
Taurus: No, he has found someone. Or, more likely, someone has found him.
Taurus double times it in the direction of the firelight.
Aran Tallbow picks up speed using his long legs to stride through the snow quickly
Avariss follows along after the two knights
Avariss whispers a silent prayer to Habbakuk as she goes
The group moves quickly down the road and soon come upon a snow drift. Steam rises into the cold air and you see that the drift has a rough hole made into it. It does not have a roof over it, but it is low enough to shelter those inside from the wind
Vexin Sixtoes hoots
Avariss: Taurus? Is this vesin's work?
Avariss: Taurus? Is this the work of Vexin?
Taurus drops his hand to the pommel of his sword as he begins to approach cautiously.
Taurus: No.
Vexin Sixtoes spreads his wings wide and hoots proudly
Avariss readies herself as they approach
Derek Crownguard draws his sword at Taurus' firm no. the other knights follow his lead and draw their own weapons
Brian Donner: there does not appear to be any danger...
Marie fingers her rapier, just incase it is needed.
Taurus: Vexin. What is the cause of this?
Vexin Sixtoes flaps around the shelter in circle
Taurus strides forward, instinctively taking point. Keeping his eyes firmly on the shelter.
Vexin Sixtoes awkwardly bends his wings towatrds himself
Taurus relaxes some.
Avariss: looks about does she see anything strange?
Taurus: It appears I was mistaken. Vexin's abilities surprise me, once more.
Vexin Sixtoes hops down into the shelter and snuggles up against one side
Vexin Sixtoes spreads his wings in welcome against the cold sides of the shelter
Avariss Looks on perplexed, "The kender did this?"
There is nothing that can be seen in the pale light of Taurus' glowing shield. Only the pit in the snow drift and a giant owl flapping his wings inside of it.
Taurus: We can use this shelter for the night.
Aran Tallbow: It matters not! We can get out of the cold in here. come on!
Avariss moves forward relaxing somewhat
Aran Tallbow climbs down into the pit formed in the snow drift.
Taurus stands at the edge of the pit, offering a hand to those entering to help them down. Still keeping an eye on the horizon, however.
Derek Crownguard 's tension eases slightly as Aran climbs into the hole.
Marie moves down into the pit.
Derek Crownguard Sheathes his sword and helps others down into the pit as well.
Vexin Sixtoes hoots softly, his large body already warming the shelter slightly
Avariss Climbs into the holec
Derek Crownguard: Avariss, organize watches for the night. I'll take first watch with Brian.
Taurus climbs down into the pit once everyone is in, besides Derek ofcourse. Peering around the small shelter he manages a breif smile, offering it to the giant owl.
Taurus: You did good Vexin.
Avariss: Aye sir.
Vexin Sixtoes winks a large discus eye at Taurus
Marie pulls out her bedroll and a heavy blanket and sets it out as far from Taurus as she can.
Vexin Sixtoes wakes when Taurus returns to sleep, and takes watch with Avariss
Taurus: I would suggest you waken Gilthanas and Laurana from their meditation for third watch. Their eyes are keen unlike no other.
Avariss moves over to where Marie is annd setup a place to sleep next to her, away fro Taurus as well
Taurus mentions nothing about Vexin. It is a full time job to keep his attention focused on a single duty for such an extended period of time that it takes up the other watchers attention also.
Taurus rolls out his bedroll near the giant owl. Removing his armor piece by piece before cleaning it. Then, finally, he lays down to rest.
Vexin Sixtoes flies up into the air during his watch, gliding around vigilantly, returning to the ground at dawn, shifting 5' above the ground, his Kender form dropping into the snow with a WOOSH!
Vexin Sixtoes giggles raucously
Avariss: You're a funny oe Vexin.
Vexin Sixtoes sticks his head up out of the snow
Vexin Sixtoes: Thanks!
Avariss: I don't thik I;'ve seen a Kender quite like you, then again I've not see nmany Kender
Vexin Sixtoes: Nobody should be as serious as Derek... I have to even the odds
Vexin Sixtoes: No 2 Kender are ever alike!
Avariss smiles amused by the Kender's comment
Vexin Sixtoes: My Uncle Trapspringer, you see,,,
Avariss: WEll no, but for a kender you seem particularily unique
Vexin Sixtoes starts into a long story abut his Uncle Trapspringer's exploits throughout Krynn
Vexin Sixtoes: Well, I'm the only Kender Druid that I know of
Avariss: Ahh...useful to have aroud.
Avariss: WEll, so it seems anyway. You ad Taurus seem to get a long well.
Vexin Sixtoes: The other druids don't even know I exist! I kindof learned by watching them. I try not to eavesdrop, but when their ceremonies are so loud it just can;t be helped
Vexin Sixtoes: Someone's got to keep Taurus in line
Vexin Sixtoes: He'd get into all sorts of trouble without me
Avariss smiles, "Indeed, he's a little randy for a knight."
Vexin Sixtoes: No, his name is Taurus, not Randy
Marie tosses a little in her sleep and mummurs in elvish.
The night passes uneventfully. Throughout the night, you hear the footsteps and wagons of the refugees fleeing Tarsis but none bother your group. The night is cold but the shelter prevents the worst of the cold from biting at your exposed skin. The sun dawns on the horizon casting long shadows on the shining crust of the snow.
Avariss: Well anyway, I know his type. I'm gald youo are here to keep him in line Vexin.
Vexin Sixtoes: Glad to be of service!
Taurus kneels just outside the small hole, having managed a small fire before him. His head bowed in prayer, armor donned and ready. An incence in one hand and a small plate of water in the other.
Vexin Sixtoes wakes everyone at dawn, eager to get back on the trail of this exciting and mysterious Dragon Orb!
Avariss , with first light, does her best to prepare rathion for a breakfast for herself and the others.
Marie wakes up, looking a bit tired, sits cross-legged and begins to meditate.
Derek Crownguard readies his gear and climbs out of the pit. He sheltes his eyes with his hand from the sun and stares off toward the south.
Taurus snuffs the incence in the plate of water, making a final prayer before packing the small 'kit' away neatly in his pack. He glances over his shoulder and stands, dusting snow from his knees.
The morning camp is broken down and the journey continues. By midday, the sun is high in the sky but it does little to warm you. Still, the day's cold is far less harsh than the cold of night.
Taurus walks up beside Averiss, offering her a smile.
Taurus: I don't believe we have been formerly introduced, M'Lady. I am Taurus Regulas, of the Crown.
Avariss smiles i return, "Did you sleep well sir?"
Taurus: As well as one can, in such circumstances.
Avariss: I know who you are. I was there in Tarsis when you met my lord Derek
As the part walks along the road to the south, Marie notices a speck in the sky, back towards Tarsis. As it nears, Vexin manages to see it as well. It is something flying and heading this way!
Taurus: Indeed. However it is difficult to afford any form of personal converse in such formal meetings. I do not remember hearing of many women joining the order, last I was in the homeland?
Vexin Sixtoes: Dragon!
Marie (alarmed): Something seems to be coming this way..
Vexin Sixtoes: Well... I assume it's a dragon
Taurus peers around for any form of cover.
Vexin Sixtoes: One doesn't see many things that big fly, unless it's a dragon
Derek Crownguard stops walking and looks grimmly back towards Tarsis
Marie: You flew last night..
Derek Crownguard: We can not afford to be spotted! Everyone into the ditch and keep low. Try to hide any dark materials that can show up against the snow!
Avariss: Ah well, I'm new to the order,
Vexin Sixtoes: Well, have you ever seen another Giant Owl flying?
Marie: No.
Avariss: Looks at her dark cloak and clothing...and then at the others...that might be all of us, even i the ditch
Vexin Sixtoes hops into the ditch
Avariss but moves to the dicth and tries to cover herself with sow
Marie darts over to a high ditch and hides herself.
Taurus slides into the ditch, moving his arms about himself to cover up his shinny armor with snow.
Vexin Sixtoes jumps into the ditch to hide, yet is so excited, he ends up jumping up and down trying to see what the creature is
The group lie in the snow. Everyone remains deathly still, except for Vexin that is, and soon, the speck nears closer. It grows in size and soon is recognized as a dragon. The scales are a dark blue that shine in the bright sun. It lazily flaps it's wings, it's shadow creeps across your hiding place in the ditch.
Taurus eyes lift heavenward as the shadow passes over them, his muscles tense and knuckles white on the pommel on his sword. Wishing nothing more than to seek revenge from this creature; to splash its cursed blood across the white snow.
Vexin Sixtoes: look! BLUE!
The form of the dragon carries on to the south, it's long neck craning from left to right as it surveys the plains below. You watch as it gets some distance away from you to the south but then, it begins to wheel in the sky, turning it's large form back toward you.
Taurus: On my command, prepare for combat.
The dragon nears closer to you again, this time it roars a defeaning screetch as it sails closer, yet it does not decend from it's current height in the sky.
Avariss looks toward Taurus, then toward Derek
Taurus tenses, ready to leap from his hiding place should the beast be foolish enough to land. His eyes narrowed as he peers up at it through the snow, teeth grit.
Vexin Sixtoes looks on in awe
Marie looks a little unnerved from the screetch but is still awed.
Avariss watches the creature waiting patiently to see what it does.
Vexin Sixtoes makes rude gestures at the dragon, immune to it's fearsome prescence
Marie
The dargon flies over head and continues toward the north. It continues to glance back at the group huddled in the ditch.
Aran draws his longbow, and he takes a deep breath to steady his arm.
Aran Tallbow (with a shakey voice): do I fire?
Avariss: It looks like its leaving...
Derek Crownguard: not yet!
Avariss lookos at Derek
Taurus
Taurus: It's a scout, for a much larger force...
Marie: I don't think I means to attack.. But it may bring friends if we attack..
Taurus whispers in hushed tones, watching the creature but not moving as of yet. (thats it)
Avariss: How can you tell it's a scout?
Derek also watches as the events unfold. Brian feels helpless, not having any ranged weapons in case a fight should errupt
Avariss
Avariss begins the laborous task of loading her heavy crossbow
Vexin Sixtoes
Taurus: The Dragon armies use these beasts to scout. Its plotting our course from the tracks in the snow.
Taurus: We'll have raiders on us by noon if we don't double pace it.
Vexin Sixtoes delay
Both Laurana and Gilthanas ready their own bows but do not fire. They both seem relieaved to see the dragon flying away from them
Marie
Marie continues to watch on, but takes out her crossbow and loads it.
The dragon again wheels itself back around, as it flies overhead, the dragon roars in a deep booming voice.
Blue Dragon: Civilians, head back to Tarsis and the dragonarmies will accept your surrender!
Avariss thinks . o (It thinks we're all civilians)
Taurus
Taurus pulls his cloak around him and rises from the snow, begining to trudge in the direction of Tarsis. Head bowed, actions sluggish. (done)
Derek goes to stop Taurus but soon realizes the kinghts ploy. Derek does likewise and directs the others to follow suit
Avariss
Derek Crownguard (whispers to Taurus): If the beast lands, we attack.
Taurus staggers to a kneel for a moment, then rises, and trudges on; for good measure. He glances back breifly towards his companions in hope they understand his actions. His head inclines just the slightest in responce to Crownguard's whisper.
Avariss follows suit covering up her xbow in her claok.
Vexin Sixtoes
Vexin Sixtoes gets into the ruse, and excited about tricking the dragon, falls into step behind taurus, pretending to be miserable
The elves and remaining two knights rise and follow the others, doing their best to conceal their features and weapons.
Marie
Marie hides her bow in her cloak and follows the rest.
The dragon wheels one more time, passes back over the group heading toward the north. It seems satisfied and flaps it's huge wings. It picks up speed and soon is out of sight alerting ground troops of the prisoners heading their way, no doubt.
Taurus: We'll take a less direct route south. When they realise the ruse that might take them longer to find us.
Derek Crownguard: We should also march hard and try to clear as much distance as possible. It will be easier to hid when night falls but during the day we are sitting ducks.
Taurus: Aye.
Aran Tallbow: Does this mean that we are not going to Bazin?
Vexin Sixtoes: We should get to the dragon orb as fast as we can!
Vexin Sixtoes: We can outrun Draconians!
Avariss: A pity we haven't any white cloaks, thaey would help us blend into all this sow better.
Brian Donner: Indeed, little one!
Taurus: If we are forced to fight Vexin, our journey will be delayed even further.
Taurus looks around at the other Knights, then towards Vexin. Offering him a slight smile.
Vexin Sixtoes: Eh, not by much. I'll just rend them limb from limb!
Taurus: In plate steel, it is doubtful.
Taurus: Everyone take some water, you'll need it. We'll double march from here on in south east for four hours then south west for a further four.
Vexin Sixtoes: Just wait... very soon I will be able to turn acorns and berries into bombs! I've already got pouches full of them, ready to be magicked!
The party continues to march hard through the snow. You veer off the road and keep your distance from it. By night fall, you see the small community of Bazin off in the distance. The warm glow of fires can be seen and they are indeed inviting.
Taurus peers off into the distance at the community.
Taurus: Vexin, scout ahead as an animal. See if the place is occupied by hostile forces.
Taurus: Do not engage, return with the information.
Avariss as the party approaches Avariss looks at the glow of the fires. She cannot remember the last time her toes weer actualyl warm
Vexin Sixtoes shifts into a much smaller white Owl, (small size) and swiftly scouts to Bazin
Taurus crouches in the snow and retrievs a ration from his belt pouch, biting into the dried meat as he watches Vexin fly away towards the settlement. Gesturing for the others to also take a break from the hard march.
Derek Crownguard stands vigilant, his eyes never leave the horizon as he watches intently for any sign of dragons or other trouble.
Vexin Sixtoes suddenly drops from the sky into the party's midst, shifting into Kender form as he hits the snow, once again giggling with a WOOSH in the snow
Vexin Sixtoes spits out some snow
Vexin Sixtoes: No dracs, just tons of people milling round very sad
Taurus startles some but relaxes seeing it Vexin.
Taurus: What do you say M'Lord Crownguard?
Vexin Sixtoes: Armd guards, but not Dragonarmy
Vexin Sixtoes: About an hour there by land
Derek Crownguard: It sounds ripe for the pickings of the dragonarmies but I doubt they will send any sizeable force there in the middle of the night. We certainly could use the warmth of their fires and I do not risk building one out here...
Taurus: It may be a good opertunity to gather some valuable intel. Not to mention the warmth of the fires.
Derek Crownguard: let us head to the settlement. We wish to keep clear of attention to ourselves so everyone be discreet.
Taurus nods to the imposing figure of Derek, standing and dusting snow from his gloves. Shouldering his pack he makes his way towards the firelight in the distance. At the mention of discreet his eyes instantly move to Vexin, frowning.
Vexin Sixtoes sticks his tongue out at Derek behind his back, then smiles at Taurus
The party nears closer to the town. After about an hours march, they can see that the settlement is overrun with people. A armed man near the perimiter of the village shouts out at your approach. He and several others draw their blades and move forward to meet you cautiously.
Avariss wraps herself up in her claok and follows behind the others.
Guard: halt! Who are you? Explain at once!
Taurus shows open hands to the armed men as they approach, keepnig his cloak tight around his armor hiding the symbols of his knighthood.
Taurus: Refugee's from Tarsis seeking the warmth of fire, and company.
Taurus: Please, we are fatigued.
Guard: you and about everyone else from Tarsis.
Taurus: What is 9 more?
Guard (turns to another guard): go get Kirakas.
Taurus: We have our own food and water, we will be no trouble.
Vexin Sixtoes: We bring business to your... uh... businesses.
a guard rushes off into the crowd.
Taurus: I am also a capable healer, and can tend to the ill. If you so wish, in payment for your hopsitality.
Guard: It will cost you, no doubt, to camp in our town.
Guard: none of ours need your healing. Perhaps yours may.
Guard: he gestures to the refugees behind him
he gestures to the refugees behind him
Taurus: I see.
Soon, the guard returns. With him, you see a tall, muscular man dressed in heavy cloaks. He is in his forties and wears a black scruffy mustache on his face. His hair is also midnight black and tossled.
Taurus bows his head respectfully to the figure of authority.
Vexin Sixtoes waves
Kirakas (deep rumble of a voice): am Kirakas, warlord of Bazin. You may stay here under our protection but any who enter must pay.
Derek Crownguard scowls but says nothing
Taurus: As you wish, Warlord Krakas. What payment do you require? I am afraid we have little to offer but what we do have is yours.
Vexin Sixtoes: Well...
Kirakas: With the increase of people coming to our town, our price has increased. It is 30 gold pieces per head... If you have not the gold, we take other forms of payment.
Kirakas: eyes Taurus' sword.
Kirakas eyes Taurus' sword.
Vexin Sixtoes 's jaw drops
Taurus frowns some.
Taurus: We can pay.
Derek Crownguard grumbles a little under his breath.
Taurus looks at each of the others, to see if they actually can afford it.
Marie checks her pockets and shakes her head at Taurus.
Vexin Sixtoes collets 30 steel per person from the group, then drops it in a pouch into Kirakas' hand
Vexin Sixtoes adds 30 steel of his own for MArie
Marie looks at Vexin, and nods her thanks.
Taurus nods to Marie, reaching to the pouch at his side. He holds out 30 pieces to Vexin, about to add 60 but seeing he put in himself.
Derek tosses Kirakas a pouch of coins to cover himself, Avariss, Brian, and Aran
Gilthanas and Laurana pay as well.
Marie slaps Vexin's hand
Vexin Sixtoes looks at MArie as if to say "Ow!"
Marie: Sorry, saw a bug.
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh? Did it have big fangs?
Taurus: Unless there is anything else, my companions and I would like to enter now?
Marie: It might have.
Vexin Sixtoes begins searching for the big bug
After Kirakas takes the payment he invites you all into the town. As he turns to leave, Vexin begins to creep toward the man with an outstretch hand. Marie slaps the kenders wrist, Kirakas turns to look but then moves on out of sight into the crowd.
Marie: That was a pitiful attempt Vexin..
Taurus frowns at Vexin. He gives him a clip behind the ear and shakes his head at him.
Vexin Sixtoes: Tiime for Ale!
Avariss: WEll, I guess we'll have warmth tonight.
Vexin Sixtoes: Hmm? attempt at what?
Marie: Catching bugs of course.
Taurus: You better not have been trying what I thought you were trying. Vexin. You promised, remember.
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh yes
Vexin Sixtoes: Trying what?
Vexin Sixtoes: There was a bug!
Taurus looks to Avariss and nods.
Marie: So where are we going?
Taurus makes his way into the town, glancing around subtly taking note of the guards. Guaging their strengths and alertness, just incase Vexin gets them in any more trouble.
Derek Crownguard gives a firm look at Taurus before walking into the town
Taurus: If there is an Inn, it will likely be full, so we may be camping in the open with refugees.
The town is not large, but the crowd in it is. You walk the perimiter and count 20 armed guards. There might be more elsewhere, but that is only speculation.
Taurus: Where will these people go...
Taurus muses to himself, mostly.
old man: Hey, over here!
the old man calls out to the group as they pass by his small fire
Marie: They'll go someplce.
Avariss stops and turns to the old man
Taurus stops, looking towards the old man. Squinting, to see if he recognises him. Approaching.
Taurus: Yes?
Avariss: Hello old father.
Vexin Sixtoes: Hullo! Vexin Sixtoes, Mighty Dragonslayer!
You see a whiskered old man. A grey-haird woman sits beside him. You recognize them as the couple that nearly lost their cart to thieves in Tarsis.
Vexin Sixtoes: You may remember me as the huge Lion!
Avariss: and old mother, how are you?
Samuel: Well, hello. I'm Samuel and this is my wife Jan. How can I forget! We thank you all again for helping us. This old cart has everything we own in it.
Samuel: Please, join us at the warmth of our fire.
Vexin Sixtoes: Ok!
Vexin Sixtoes: Thank you, Grandfather
Samuel nods
Marie: Thank you.
Marie takes a seat by the fire and seems to relax while staring into the fire.
Taurus: Thank you. It would be an honor to share the warmth of this fire with you and your wife.
Avariss smiles, "Thank you old father. it is good you have made it here safely"
Samuel offers you some food from the pot that has been cooking over the campfire. It is not much, but it smells wonderful.
Samuel: And we are grateful that you have.
Taurus glances around the refugee's briefly before taking a seat near the fire. Removing his gloves he stretches out his hands out towards the flames.
Avariss: thannk you, perhaps we can add our own rations and make somethig more substantial?
Taurus: I have something else.
Taurus leans forward, lowering his voice. Looking between the old couple.
Taurus (Quietly): But we must keep this a secret, no?
Avariss begins to add more food from her own rations and that of the party to create something more than just a thin soup
Samuel looks at Taurus puzzled but nods
Marie absently whistles for Gabriel and still stares into the fire.
Taurus spreads his bedroll out on the ground infront of him, kneeling before it. Bowing his head. He rubs his hands together, lips moving quietly in prayer. This goes on for some time, running his fingers inches above the bedroll. Its almost 10 minutes until he finishes.
Taurus (Quietly): Kiri-Jolith feed the hungry.
Taurus says the final prayer and on his bedroll appears loafs of bread and fish. (create food and water, enough for 24 people)
Samuel looks wide eyed at Taurus and a huge grin is plastered across his face.
Gabriel comes fluttering down from the sky and lands on Marie's shoulder. He also begins to stare into the fire.
Samuel (whispered): Amazing!
Taurus (Quietly): This is our secret though, for now, Samuel?
Taurus smiles.
Samuel nods
Taurus: Would you and your wife help me distribute some of this to the others whilst your broth cooks?
Derek Crownguard looks on impressed
Samuel: certainly.
Taurus: I wish not to draw attention, so you can say you brought it with you from Tarsis.
Avariss continues to create a thick stew from the new food that has appeared.
Samuel grabs some of the food and then begins to hand it out to those who look the most hungry near his camp.
Taurus manages a genuine smile, watching Samuel hand out the food. He also assits, telling those who ask it is from the old man and his wife. Ensuring those who are the hungriest recieve food first.
Brian Donner: It is two days march from Bazin to Zeriak. I suggest that we leave early morning, perhaps before dawn.
Aran Tallbow: how on Krynn are we to find this Dragonorb on a bloody glacier? It is thousands of square miles if not bigger...
Derek Crownguard listens to the two knights but says little. His thoughts consume him.
Taurus returns after a time, sucking in a breath through his nose enjoying the smell of the stew.
Taurus: Smells good, Lady Avariss.
Gabriel nudges Marie a little, in an almost concerned way.
Taurus: It appears you have a good hand in the kitchen.
Vexin Sixtoes sneaks off to see if anyone in the area is selling any white, warm winter cloaks
Taurus glances breifly towards the bird on Marie's shoulder.
Laurana (To Marie): The bird seems to have great intelligence... Where did you find him, if I may ask?
Avariss smiles, "I had to learn to cook or I would have starved."
Marie takes her eyes from the fire, pets her bird a bit and bits her tounge from commenting on Taurus' comment.
Taurus: Skills of neccesity are the hardest to lose.
Taurus leans back, taking a draught of his waterskin as he peers heavenwards; thoughtful.
Marie (to Laurana): He's been with me for several years. He found me while I was on a job, rather on my way back from one.
Vexin wanders off to see if he can find any white furs or cloaks. Unfortunately, the refugees seem to not be interested in selling what meager belongings they have left.
Laurana: a job?
Vexin Sixtoes appears back at the fire later, hoping nobody missed him
Marie: Yeah...
Taurus: Ahh, there you are Vexin. The stew is almost ready, it smells good no?
Laurana smiles but does not press the question
Taurus: Perhaps you have a few of your special spices to help add to the flavour?
Marie: But since that night, he's been with me. It's like I know what he feels and it seems he can feel the same.
Taurus glances towards Marie as she discusses the bird and the 'job'.
Vexin Sixtoes: mmm smells good!
Taurus: I had just assumed you had stolen the creature from some noble's house.
Vexin Sixtoes: Her bird is like my Skitters....
Marie shoots a looks toward's Taurus but doesn't defend herself.
Vexin Sixtoes sighs
Taurus sighs too.
Avariss stirs the pot of stew one last time and begins serving it out to her companions
Taurus: Skitters is in a pleasant place now Vexin. He's likely bounding through great fields with Lady Skitters with all the warm dragon blood he can drink.
Taurus recieves the bowel of stew from Avariss with a thankful smile, fingertips warmed at its touch; actually feeling the digits for the first time in days.
The evening passes and the warmth of the fire throughout the night is comforting to your cold and weary bones. Derek rises the rest of you to wake before the sun rises. He insists on leaving straight away.
Vexin Sixtoes: haha... Lady Skitters
Vexin Sixtoes jumps up and is ready to go in seconds, still eager as ever to see this Dragon Orb
Taurus stands when Derek raises the others, snuffing the incence signalling the completion of his prayers; his dayly ritual.
Marie meditiates for a few minutes, petting her bird as she does.
Marie gets up and places Gabe on her shoulder and gets ready to leave.
It takes two days walk to reach Zeriak and thankfully, there is little in the way of trouble on the road south. In fact, the road seems to be deserted of any life. Near the early evening of the second day, you all see a small community resting on a slight rise that overlooks the plains. The camp fires lift smoke off into the sky which grows darker by the minute.
Taurus replaces the cap on his waterskin and secures it, wiping away residue moisture from his lips as he peers off into the distance.
Taurus: Civilisation. So few and far inbetween out here.
Aran Tallbow: and small at that. very little life...
Marie flexes her fingers to make sure they were still there. They are.
Aran Tallbow kicks at the snow.
Taurus: Don't worry Aran, I'm sure they'll have some firewater you can purchase here.
Taurus pats his shoulder, knowing the poor guy has been out for a couple of days now; taking the edge of life just not an option at the moment for his alcoholic friend.
Aran Tallbow: aye! That would be a pleasent sight. There will be little else once we are out on the glacier.
Taurus: Perhaps we might find somewhere here who can guide us to where we need to be.
Marie: You will probably need to stock up quite a bit.
Taurus: Does the map show the location more specifically?
Brian Donner digs in his bags and pulls out a parchment of paper. He then unfolds it for all to see.
Taurus moves closer, leaning in to see.
Brian Donner: the map shows little of the Glacier. Not that there is many permanent settlements on it...
Marie glances toward the map as well.
Taurus: What about this one? Khor-somthing?
Brian Donner: I do not know of this place. It appears to be on the glacier. Perhaps an ice barbarian settlement?
Taurus: If none in Zeriak can help us it would be a good place to look.
GM ignores Jaraak's comment
Taurus: Lets waste no more time.
Taurus heads for the settlement.
You move toward the city and see that the people who wander the streets look to be a strong, hardy lot. One would have to be this far south.
Marie: No seaching for bugs here Vexin
Taurus inclines his head to several of the people who make eye contact, pulling his cloak tighter around him to further conceal his knightly nature. Stopping a moment to get the attention of one of the locals.
Vexin Sixtoes: hmm?
The town is small, only slightly bigger than Bazin. At the end of the main road you see what appears to be a inn and tavern. When you approach closer, the sign that swings in the wind says "The Wooly Tusker Inn" Across from it is another building that is called "Tavern of the Ice Reach"
Taurus: Excuse me, could you direct us to an Inn?
Marie points.
Taurus: Oh? Behind me?
Taurus looks behind him, following Marie's indication. Seeing the two Inns.
Taurus: Thank you.
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh! Woolly Tusker! Did I tell you guys about the time I found this Wooly Mammoth?
Taurus: Two.. Inn's...
Derek Crownguard: They both look to be hovels, but they are better than the plains, I am certain.
Marie: They should at least have some heat.
Derek Crownguard heads up the stairs to the Wooly Tusker and enters through the door.
Taurus: Since Vexin is already familiar, we'll stay at the Wolly Tusker? Was it?
Taurus follows Derek up and into the Tusker.
Inside, you see the common room is filled with burly men and rough looking women. Scars cover half the faces of those inside and the other half are missing many of their teeth. Most seem to not be interested in your enterance.
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh! Interesting people!
bar keep: Hoi! Welcome to the Wooly Tusker Inn. What can I do you fer?
Marie (whispers): something to Gabe and he flies off and lands on a post.
Taurus looks around slowly. Riiiggghhhtt....
Avariss moves in behind Derek and Taurus
Derek Crownguard: We need lodging for the night
Marie whispers something to Gabe and he flies off and lands on a post.
Vexin Sixtoes: And ALE!
Vexin Sixtoes: Lots of ale...
Vexin Sixtoes 's eyes glitter as he winks at Aran
Aran Tallbow: That's right! Ale, mead, Lager, Wine.... whatever you have!
Vexin Sixtoes: Mead... yuuuummmmy!
Taurus offers a polite smile to some of the toothless individuals. He shakes his head a little to clear his thoughts and approaches the others, coming up behind Aran he places a hand on his shoulder.
Taurus: Ease up friend, we shall secure lodgings first before we procure a hangover. No?
Aran Tallbow: I can get a hangover in a room or on the bar's floor. It makes not difference to me!
Aran Tallbow chuckles heartily
bar keep: Sure! We don't have much use for money down in these parts. a room will cost you the price of two weapons. The drink comes free with the room!
Vexin Sixtoes: Cost wweapons?
Vexin Sixtoes: hmm...
Vexin Sixtoes produces a tiny knife from hi belt and hands it over.
bar keep looks at the knife and smiles at the kender.
bar keep: If you want to use this, it will cost ya three weapons.
Aran Tallbow pulls out a finely crafted dagger. He hesitates a moment as he holds it in his hand before he slides it to the bar keep across the counter.
Taurus unhooks his morningstar from his belt and sets it on the countertop.
bar keep: The dagger and knife count as one weapon. Agreed?
Taurus: And so that is three.
bar keep: Exactly!
bar keep hands over a rusted key.
Vexin Sixtoes: bleh
Taurus: Tell me barkeep, do many traverse the glacier south?
bar keep: The door is down the hall and second to the right. If you want the drink, the bar is open for another three hours.
Vexin Sixtoes: drink!
bar keep: Not any that are the likes of you!
bar keep he laughs a cackle
Avariss: Excuse me sir, might there be someone in town that sells warm clothig? and cloaks?
Taurus: There is something we seek out on the Ice and require a guide. Would you know of a capable one? We are willing to pay well.
bar keep: You came to the right place, deary! Zeriak is well known for our fur trappers. (he turns back to Taurus) and the fur trappers often head out onto the Glacier.
Taurus: Excellant. Where might we find this Zeriak?
Avariss: Um Taurus, sir...we're in it...
Taurus frowns a bit embarassed.
Taurus: Oh.
bar keep laughs loudly at Taurus.
Avariss: THis town is Zeriak...maybe I should do the talking sir...
Taurus frowns some more.
Taurus: I'll be upstairs, securing my equipment.
Taurus takes the key and makes his way to their room.
Avariss: WEll then, perhaps we can aquire some warm clothing and a guide!
Marie (muttering): If it was a woman he'd be able to talk circles around them.
Avariss stifles a chuckle at MArie's comment
bar keep: Donaldson is next door. He's a fur trader. I ussually send him any business that comes in here his way.
Vexin Sixtoes: Ok, hold my drink til I get back, I'll be next door
Avariss: Will he have clothig for us and act as a guide?
Taurus tries the rusty key on the aformentioned door. Opening it he moves inside and collapses on the bed/pallete and lets out a long sigh. Damn he has missed not sleeping on the floor.
Vexin Sixtoes wanders over next door seeking white winter cloaks
bar keep: He'll have furs, but it'll cost you weapons. I doubt he'll be interested in guiding you folk out on the ice, but you never know.
Avariss: nods to the barkeep thanking him and heads out to catch up with Vexin.
Avariss nods to the barkeep thanking him and heads out to catch up with Vexin.
Taurus murmers something about inbred toothless barbarians as despite his best efforts drifts off to sleep. Zzzzzz.
Avariss: Vexin, hold up, let me catch up
Avariss (musing): Its amazing that anyone can survive i these conditionns...I don't think I've felt so cold in all my life
Vexin Sixtoes waits
Marie walks to the room and enters it, eying a sleeping Taurus. She then opens the window and whistles for Gabriel and then closes the window when he comes in.
You wander next door and find that the shop is just about closing up. You enter to the jingle of bells at the door. The hairy man at the back of the store looks up as you enter, a patch covers his left eye. In a gruff voice he tells you he's closing up for the night.
Vexin Sixtoes: I just turn into a snow leopard or bear when I get cold
Marie then sits in a corner, talking softly to her bird.
the rest of the knights and two elves retire to their room, except Aran, who find a comfortable seat at the bar.
Avariss: We have need of supplies sir, we were told you could assist us.
Vexin Sixtoes: We need some of your famous white winter cloaks, before morning!
Vexin Sixtoes: We have weapons!
Donaldson grunts a reply.
Vexin Sixtoes looks at Avariss
Avariss: And steel if you prefer
Donaldson: what ya need?
Taurus shifts a bit as the window is opened, allowing a chill to move through the room before its closed. After a minute or two he begins snoring quietly, twisting a bit uncomfortably in his full plate.
Avariss: Lets see...nine warm winter cloaks, white if you have them. and nine suits of warm weather gear?
Donaldson whistles at the large request
Avariss: IS that all VExin? do we need anything else?
Taurus (mumbled): kkkrijolithmm...
Vexin Sixtoes: WHITE cloaks
Avariss: I mentioned that Vexi...
Vexin Sixtoes: nothing else
Donaldson: I'll take weapons. the coin is of no use to me. Standard fair is two weapons for one fur. Yeah, I got some polar bear skins... they're white.
Avariss: Good. Can you prepare them for toorrow? We will come by to pick them up then
Donaldson pauses in thought for a moment before answering.
Donaldson: yeah, alright. I leave at the crack of dawn so you best be here before then.
Avariss: We shall, thank you sir.
Donaldson nods and continues to clean up his shop.
Avariss: Oh one last thing!
Donaldson looks up but says nothing
Avariss: We were wondering if you or someone you know can act as a guide for us, on the glacier...
Donaldson: The people of Zeriak don't have time to play tour guide. The Glacier is no place for the likes of you. I suggest you head north to warmer climes.
Avariss: WEll we would but we have pressing matters to the south and on the glacier.
Donaldson: What kind of "pressing matters"?
Avariss: Unfortuately, i' ot at liberty to discuss them. My master Lord Derek...u Derek will have to answer that question
Vexin Sixtoes: Make that 8 cloaks, I wont need one
Avariss: Suffice it to say we would not be going unless it was absolutely ecessary.
Donaldson: well, tell your lord I'm not interested. If he can survive the glacier, he'll be bound to find some of the icefolk. They might be able to help.
Avariss: "icefolk"
Avariss: Who are these "icefolk"?
Donaldson: aye. The ice barbarians. They live on the glacier. They don't have permenant settlements...
Avariss: I see. You think we might get some assistance from them?
Vexin Sixtoes: 6 cloaks... we only need 6 actually
Donaldson: It's hard to tell. They might kill you outright if they think your a threat. That's assuming you even find em
Avariss: Is there any advice you can give us so that we don't come across as threatening to them?
Donaldson: They respect those who are strong. Those who can survive the Glacier. They also follow the path of the white bear. It is sacred to them. You might be able to convince them you also worship the white bear. You're best bet though... Just avoid them all together.
Marie puts down Gabe, eyes glowing white as a pair of hands appear and pull Taurus' blanket up to his chin.
Avariss: Well thank you. We shall be aroud tomorrow morning to pick up the four cloaks. God night
Donaldson grunts a goodnight.
Taurus murmbles something sleeply and rolls over, snuggling into the blanket; snoring just a little deeper.
Vexin Sixtoes: White bear? easy!
Marie (quietly to Gabe): You'd think he'd try to stay warm.
Avariss leaves the store and heads up to the room
Avariss: Let's hope so Vexin
Vexin Sixtoes: You just wait!
Marie (Quietly to Gabe): Think I should mess with him?
Vexin Sixtoes rubs his hands together
Taurus shifts a little more, revealing a glimmer of shiny metal. A locket slipping out from his shirt under his arm, a thin metal chain securing it around his neck; resting neatly on the pillow beside him.
Avariss enters the room and begis removing her arour to the souds of Taurus' snoring
Marie looks at the chain, curious to what it is, but decides to continue with her prank.
Marie looks at the chain, curious to what it is, but decides to continue with her prank.
Marie smiles as her eyes turn white, and then turns her hands toward herself and makes herself into one of the local women.
Taurus snorts, shifts a bit, continues snoring.
Marie looks at Avariss, with a sly smile and lays down next to Taurus.
Marie (whispered): Get me a bottle of ale, then wake him.
Taurus shifts a bit in his sleep, the full plate perhaps making his sleep difficult; or perhaps dreams. When the warm body lays down beside him he snuggles into it, spooning Marie ;)
Taurus (Murmered): MmmElisemmm..
Marie grunts like a local.
Avariss: Oh sorry wasn't reading
Avariss walks in and sees the strange woman in bed with Taurus
Vexin Sixtoes follows behind Avariss
Vexin Sixtoes: Av... is that a... man... Taurus is with?
Avariss thinks . o (WEll, he didn't waste time...wow he must have been desperate, she's ugly)
Avariss ashakes her head, "I don't know...i thought priests had vows or some such?"
Marie quietly laughs.
Taurus snuggles into Marie, sniffing her hair and smiling. Resting a little more peacefully now, arms around her, trapping her in.
Avariss: You'd thik he'd at least take his armour off, he's going to be incredibly fatigued wearing that. I better wake him.
Avariss prods Taurus util he awakens, "Sir, you really shouldn't sleep in your armour...ad you might want to get the..."lady" out of your bed before Derek arises"
Taurus blinks a few times groggily opening his eyes.
Taurus: mmm.. whaa??
Taurus eyes adjust some and he looks up at Avariss face, then realising someone is in bed with him he slowly turns his eyes to the patch haired toothless woman-thing in his arms.
Taurus: WHAT?!
Vexin Sixtoes: TAURUS! WHAT IS THAT IN YOUR BED?!?!
Marie pretends to wake up and smiles a toothless grin.
Vexin Sixtoes: DID YOU...
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh no...
Taurus unwraps his arms from around Marie and scoots back, falling on the floor with a -THUD-.
Vexin Sixtoes: How will the BABY look??!
Taurus: No.. I.. I mean.. I ...
Marie (to Taurus): You want to go again?
Avariss: Sir, I know that certain knights play it loose with the vows of the order but I doubt Derek would be able to overlook this
Marie struggles to hold back the laugher, but ends up failing.
THe other knights in the room stir as well as the elves.
Derek Crownguard: Wha-- What is going on!?
Taurus looks between Avriss, the toothy grin of Marie, and back. He shakes his head several times, cclimbing to his feet.
Taurus: Nothing! I.. mean, nothing M'Lord...
Taurus quickly makes for the door, and in seconds his out of it; figurative tail between his legs.
Marie standing and grunts out a "Nothing."
Derek Crownguard: Who is that?
Marie starts laughing even harder.
rises to his feet fuming
Derek Crownguard rises to his feet fuming
Avariss turns to the toothless woman whispering, "You best be o your way as well. My lord Derek has a temper"
Marie snaps her fingers and returns to her normal self.
Taurus heads down stairs to the bar where Aran no doubt likely is still. He walks straight up to the man, takes whatever tankard he has in his hand and drains it to the last drop.
Avariss jumps back surprisedm m"Marie!?"
Derek Crownguard: What is the meaning of this?
Avariss: Thenn...ooohhh..."
Avariss does her best to stifle a giggle....
Aran Tallbow: HA! That a boy!
Aran Tallbow slaps Taurus on the back
Marie: Sorry to wake you all up, but he had that coming.
Taurus slams the tankard down.
Taurus: Got anything harder?
Avariss norts back a giggle...
Avariss snorts back a giggle...
Avariss: Oh, that was mean Marie,
Derek Crownguard looks cooly at Avariss and then to Marie. He steps forward to the young lady.
Taurus catches a glimpse of another of the local toothless folk walk past, he shudders inwardly and takes up whatever is put infront of him and drains it. Shaking his head slowly, confused.
Vexin Sixtoes: Good one MArie! I'm buying you a drink or 3!
Marie: He had it coming.
Taurus (Quietly): You didn't.. by any chance... see me go upstairs with one of the... locals? Did you?
Taurus (You): can be honest, Aran.
Taurus (quietly): You can be honest, Aran.
Derek Crownguard: Do not make me regret having you along with us. We can easily leave you here in Zeriak.
Vexin Sixtoes takes Marie by the arm and begins to skip downstairs to see Aran
Aran Tallbow: Ha! I don't think so. You'd need a bit more of those for something like that to happen!
Marie looks at Derek, and then to her feet.
Aran Tallbow points at the drink
Taurus (Quietly): I think I just had the most horrible dream.
Marie: I'm sorry, but he did have it coming. And I will go apoligze to him.
Derek Crownguard: Was Taurus asleep? Did he know what was happening?
Derek Crownguard voice calms a bit more
Marie: No he was asleep, and no he didn't know.
Taurus (Quietly): I was in a field with my E.. an old Lady friend of mine, and then she turned into a troll.. or a hag.. or somthing.
Avariss: He was asleep sir.
Derek Crownguard: do not let it happen again...
Vexin Sixtoes: Come MArie, drink!
Derek Crownguard goes back to his bedroll on the floor and climbs into the folds
Marie looks at the knights face, trying to read the man.
Avariss , when Derek is turned away, she smiles at Marie
Marie: Alright, lets go Vexin.
Marie smiles back to Avariss
Vexin Sixtoes: wee!
Avariss: Oh sir? I've secured cloaks for us tomorrow for the glacier trek. the merchant requires weapons as payment.
Derek Crownguard: very well. We will sort it out first thing in the morning.
Avariss: Yes milord
Brian Donner (quietly): Thank you, Avariss.
Avariss smiles at Brian and begins preparing for bed.
Taurus (Quietly): I always have nightmares when I fall asleep in my plate...
Taurus, Vexin and Marie all hear the sounds of faint screams and shouts from outside.
Taurus takes another draught of ale, sitting beside Aran. Running his fingers back through his hair, still obviously quite tired but thinking a little ale might put him out better.
Taurus pauses, looks to the door.
Taurus: What the...
Aran Tallbow: it'll teach you to take it off before bed time, lad!
Marie: What was that?
Taurus: Aran, I hear screams. Wake the others.
Vexin Sixtoes: Oops! time to go save the wrold again! Drinks later!
Taurus heads straight for the door, hand on the pommel of his sword.
Marie hurries down stairs, and walks toward the door.
Aran Tallbow jovial expression melts away instantly and he is up off his stool charging up stairs past Vexin and Marie.
Taurus shoulders the door open and peers outside before stepping out into the night, thumb pressed to the scabard ready to draw his sword at any moment.
Aran Tallbow bursts through the door as Avariss unbuckles the first of many that are on her armor.
Aran Tallbow: Trouble!
Avariss spins around, "What?"
Marie (to Taurus): I'm Sorry. I'll tell you why later.
Vexin Sixtoes heads to the door to the Inn, and peeks outside
Taurus blinks at Marie confused, nodding out into the darkness.
Taurus: You heard that also?
Avariss picks up her sword belt and scabbard and places it aroud her waist and then grabs her shield as she listes to Aran
Marie: Yes I heard it.
Marie: From what I can see, so did Vexin.
You look out into the night of Zeriak. The darkness is lit ablaze by the fires that burn steadily on the thatched roofs of the town. Wandering the streets, you see baaz soldiers lighting the homes on fire. With them, are tall bull men also lighting Zeriak ablaze
Taurus: Draks!
Taurus spits the name out as if it was a curse.
The other knights in the room and the two elves quickly don their armor and prepare for whatever is to come. Aran rushes downstairs.
Taurus eyes shoot upwards, praying to the gods that he does not see a Dragon.
Aran Tallbow: They are coming. What is it?
Taurus: Draks.
Marie: Looks like quite a few..
Vexin Sixtoes: I almost forgot how ugly they are
Avariss follows Ara dowstairs an out into the street whre she stops beside Taurus and the others
The sky is dark, but you do not see the engines of death that the dragonarmies employ.
Taurus: We must protect these people, this violence must end here and NOW.
Avariss looks with wide eyes, "By Habbakuk! "
Vexin Sixtoes: Too bad I can't turn these into explosives yet...
Vexin Sixtoes fondles his pouch of nuts and berries
Vexin Sixtoes
Taurus: Hold out your shield, Lady Averiss.
Taurus: Form a tight group. Aran to the rear, Lady Averiss you have point. Vexin you and Miss Marie are on interferance.
Vexin Sixtoes: ENCIRCLE ME! TIGHT! or you'll get hurt! NOW!
Vexin Sixtoes readies an action
Aran moves forward to stand near Vexin. He fires off his bow at a drac that is rushing toward the inn
Vexin Sixtoes shouts YOU STUPID DRACONIANS! YOU FATHERLESS ABOMINATIONS! I BET YOUR MOTHERS WERE MONKEYS!
Vexin Sixtoes: Get their attention and stand next to me
with amazing speed, Aran rifles off three shots, all three arrows lodge into the drac's chest but the beast keeps rushing forward, his longsword held high over it's head
Avariss
Avariss takes a five foot step forward.
Avariss delays until whatever Taurus is going to do to her shield is done to it.
Marie
Marie duck and somersaults by Taurus and Avariss and waits to see what happens.
Those inside the inn quickly put their armor on before joining the battle
Vexin Sixtoes: HURRY KNIGHTS AND ELVES! TO ME!
Two Minotaurs make there way to the inn while the rest continue to set the town on fire.
Taurus
Taurus forms a tight first, a sudden silvery light forms around it. He reaches out and touches Avariss' shield; the silvery light transfering to it. (Magic Vestment +2 enhancement to AC)
Taurus moves forward to take the front, providing a bigger target than Marie.
Vexin Sixtoes: Not witht hem not next to me... they'll get flayed head to toe
Aran Tallbow: They are inside the building! They won't come out unarmored! Just do it kender!
Vexin Sixtoes: Wait for it...
Two Dracs close in on Taurus and attack
Avariss: Can't you do it now Vexi?
Vexin Sixtoes: Wait or it won't be effective
Taurus steels himself against the incoming attacks, shield high.
Vexin Sixtoes: It's worht the wait
The two blades slide off the shield
Vexin Sixtoes: Swap places wiht me if you wish, Avariss
Taurus grins slightly from behind his visor.
Another drac charges forward toward Marie, closing the gap
Aran Tallbow: I got some big guys commin' to the rear!
Vexin Sixtoes: Don't worry Aran, let them come
Avariss: Vexin? Now might be the timme!
Taurus: Fall back to Marie's flank Aran.
Another Drac charges forward, breaking away from the building he set alight
Vexin Sixtoes: Let them al close in..
The rest of the dracs continue to burn the town
Marie: Um, we have to do something about those minotaurs with torches..
Vexin Sixtoes
Avariss: Do it now Vexin!
Vexin Sixtoes: Come and GET ME UGLIES!
Taurus: Now or never, Vexin!
Aran Tallbow: awe, bloody hell!
Vexin Sixtoes begins to cast a spell, and throws a jagged tooth into the now-whirling air... the tooth begins to spin in the whirling torrent, and multiplies by the thousands... translucent green teeth flying in a maelstrom aorund the companions in the eye of the 'storm'
Vexin Sixtoes: Come and get me, COWARDS!
The Minotaurs and dracs skin begin to shred as the teeth cut into their flesh, but they all seem to withstand the barrage at first
Aran fires off three more arrows at the Drac attacking Avariss
All three arrows slam into the drac, the last cuts through his throat. The draconian wheezes as he tries to fight on
Avariss
Avariss Swings at the Bazz soldier in fron of her (#4) with her first attack. and then her second
Avariss: Did I drop it?
Avariss: I'm cleaving
The draconian skin turns to stone as Avariss attacks it. As she goes to pull the weapon free from the body, she finds that it is held fast, encased in stone.
Avariss: Damn!
Avariss: ok thanks
Vexin Sixtoes (shouts): OVERGROWN LIZARDS! YOU SMELL LIKE SEWAGE!
Those inside the inn continue to Don their armor as quickly as possible
Marie
Vexin Sixtoes (shouts): AND WHAT ARE THOSE COWS ON 2 LEGS?!?!
Vexin Sixtoes (shouts): MOOOOOOOOOOO!
Marie strikes out at the Drak 3 with her rapier.
The blade pierces the dracs skin but just barely
Vexin Sixtoes turns his back on the creatures, and pulls down his pants, mooning them
Marie then points at the same drak and tries to cause him to be offguard.
Vexin Sixtoes pulls up his pants and faces them again, sticking out his tongue
THe two Minotaurs round the house and decend upon Aran
Avariss: feint is a standard action.
The great axe of one of the beasts slashes down into Aran's shoulder, blood gushes from the wound. The knight manages to avoid the second attack from the other Minotaur.
Taurus
Taurus sprinkles a bit of dust on the snow and calls out to the gods above to protect them from this onslaught of evil. A silvery white light begins to emit from him, hardening the defenses of those around. (M Circle Vs Evil +2 AC, +2 Saves to all)
Taurus then lifts his spare longsword from his belt, offering it to Avaris (+1 Ghost Touch Longsword)
The two dracs take the chance to attack Taurus as he casts his spell. Unfortunately, they are just as distracted by the whirlwind of teeth and they miss dreadfully
The three dracs in range attack Avariss, Marie and Taurus. Two miss but the one on Taurus scores a hit, grazing his forearm
Taurus grits his teeth as the first blood is drawn, trying to focus more on the Draks ahead of him.
Some draconians break away from their onslaught against the town and approach the new combatants outside the inn. Thy stop short at the whirlwind of needle like teeth.
Vexin Sixtoes
Vexin Sixtoes (shouts): YOUR FATHER wasa HAMSTER! AND YOUR MOTHER SMELT... OF ELDERBERRIES!
The Bull men flair their nostrils and their warm breath can be seen as it curls into the air. They grunt an angry retort at the kender.
The draconians do not seem to take the bait
The teeth continue to swirl and one of the dracs gets a load of needles in the face, shredding it to the bone. His body turns to stone before it even falls to the ground
Avariss
Avariss takes the offered blade and attacks the Drac in front of Taurus (#7)
The new blade handed to Avariss slices into the draconian. The lizard man begins to turn to stone and Avariss just barely manages to free the weapon from the stone trappings.
Avariss takea 5 ft step south.
Laurana and Gilthanas move down the stairs into the common room, now with there armor on. The two knights still quickly harness on their own plate armor
Marie
Marie lashes out at the drac she poked last time.
The thin blade airaites the drac as blood droplets trickle out of the wounds. He staggers to stand but does not fall.
Marie: Fall Down
The Minotaurs, now enranged by the kenders taunt, move in to attack the little bugger!
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh! no! help me! the cows are mooing at me!
Vexin Sixtoes: rouuuouounds
With heafy swings, the two axes come down hard on Vexin. The blades bite into his torso and shoulder
Vexin Sixtoes cries out in pain
The last Minotaur staggers into the whirlwind of teeth as he hears the kenders taunt, bent on finding the troublemaker and tearing him limb from limb
Taurus
Taurus thrusts his shield up into the view of the Minataur to his rear to put it off guard before bringing his longsword around in a sharp arc. Crying out as the jewel in his longsword bursts out a bright rose red (+2 to all saves, stacks with Prot Evil)
Taurus: ACITAS!
The bullman, in his rage at Vexin, does not see the knight draw his blad on him. His arm dangles by a thin piece of flesh, the blood steams in the cool air as it spills to the snowy ground
The drac attacks Marie
Taurus: You bare the mantle of my god beast - but you shall fall as his foe.
The longsword cuts into the girls thigh.
Vexin Sixtoes
Vexin Sixtoes (shouts): YOU ALL STINK! YOUR SMELL PERMEATES MY VERY SOUL! GO RUB SOME FLOWERS UNDER YOUR ARMS! YOU SECONDHAND ELECTRIC DONKEYBOTTOM PATTERS!
The needle like teeth continue to shred the flesh of your enemies, peeling back the skin to reveal the pink muscles. The Drac, and two minotaurs all fall to the ground.
Taurus: Calm yourself vexin, save it for the enemy.
Vexin Sixtoes giggles and turns into a cow
Vexin Sixtoes: MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
Aran fires off three more arrows at a drac waiting on the perimeter
Taurus looks at Vexin confused.
Taurus: I don't believe that is an appropriate form for battle, Vexin.
Vexin Sixtoes moos very loudly, taunting the minotaurs
The three arrows all hit their mark.
Taurus: What do you hope to achieve? Smother them with your udders?
Aran Tallbow: I'm running out of ammo!
Marie: Milk them to death maybe?
Avariss
Taurus: Prepare to engage in melee.
The drac that trapped Avariss sword crumbles to dust and the sword fall free to the ground
Avariss readies herself for the onrush of new enemies safely within the eye of the whirling teeth.
Taurus: Oh. I understand.
Marie: Anyone have any hay orgrass for him to graze on?
Laurana runs to a window and fires her own bow at a drac
Taurus: You are trying to entice them over with your feminine ways.
Vexin Sixtoes (so loud it reflects off nearby buildings): MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
The arrows sail off into the night.
Marie
Taurus: Perhaps if you wave your tail at them suggestively?
Marie readies for melee.
Vexin Sixtoes turns his tail and shakes his rear at the oncoming minotaurs
Avariss: Perhaps kender you should focus on the battle at hand. It's not over yet
Gilthanas positions himself at another window and fires his own bow
THe arrow grazes a drac but does little harm
Another minotaur grunts his disgust at the kender and charges into the fray. Another moves and attacks Aran
Avariss: See kender, you should back up
Avariss: That was then, the battle has changed
The attack against Aran misses as he nimbley dodges to the side
Taurus
Taurus clenches his fist to his breasplate, it glows a deep crimson. He reaches over and places his hand on the shoulder of Avariss. Speaking in low, deep tones. "Feel the power of Kiri-Jolith flow through you" (+4 str, bullstrength)
Taurus: Fall back Vexin to the center.
Taurus: Avariss, show these heathens the strength of Kiri-Jolith.
Vexin Sixtoes moos iin ageement
Avariss: Who?
Taurus nods to the Minatuar.
The Draconians take cover from the arrows and wait for the whirlwind to die down
Vexin Sixtoes
Vexin Sixtoes shifts back into Kender form and shouts as loud as his lungs can bear
Vexin Sixtoes: I FART IN YOUR GENERAL DIRECTION! YOU WANNABE DRAGONS! YOU CAN'T EVEN COME ATTACK THESE 2 WOMEN! COWARDS!
Aran pulls his sword from the scarab and attacks the minotaur that stalks him from behind.
Aran's sword is blocked by the Minotaur's parry.
Avariss
Avariss mmove forward and attacks the minotaur (#9), "Habbakuk give me strength!"
The sword cuts up into the bull man's belly, he howls in pain but still stands, albeit a little wobbley
Brian Donner finally buckles his last piece of armor on and takes off down the stairs
Avariss: I have bull's strength?
Laurana fires at the minotaur fighting Aran.
Both shots miss
Marie
Avariss: Ok sorry Mac add +2 to my attacks and damage!
Marie moves down to assist Aran and attacks.
The minotaur surcumbs to his wounds after another two damage slice into his heart. ;)
Gilthanas fires his own arrow at the minotaur
The arrow thuds into the back of his skull and he slumps to the ground
Derek follows Brian down to the common room, now ready for battle
Most of the minotours are too far away to hear the kender's taunt of the blaze of the fire and screams of the town folk. The few who do, begin to truck forward but are stopped by the draconians who tell them to wait.
Taurus
Taurus eyes the village, places a hand on Vexin to heal him.
Taurus: Vexin. Lower the teeth, we cannot hold of any longer.
Vexin Sixtoes
Avariss
Avariss delays until the spell is down
Taurus: Charge!
Avariss double moves to there and readies herself for the coming onslaught!
Brian and Laurana both come rushing out of the Inn and close toward the enemy
Marie
Marie follows the other women in their reckless charge.
Gilthanas rushes to the side of the hut and drops to a knee while he fires off an arrow at the drac
The arrow lodges itself into the drac's arm. It hisses and begins to charge toward the elf
Derek comes clanking out to the battlefield
A minotaur steps up to Avariss and attacks the knight with his great axe
The heavy blade of the axe slices into Avariss' torso, wedging itself between two plates.
The remaining bullmen continue to burn the town, but seem to take note of the action that is happening nearby.
Taurus
Avariss is winded by the blow but recovers quickly
Taurus strides forward in his heavy armor, sword and shield glistening at his side. His lips moving, though you cannot make out what he says. Thrusting his fist against his chest his eyes fly wide and open, glowing a heavenly white. His physical stature growing bigger, stronger.
The dracs seem to swarm out of the nooks and crannies toward you, weapons drawn high in the air
One attacks Avariss, another Laurana while a third attacks Marie. The last attacks Derek as he charges toward the battle
The drac's attacks are all blocked, parry or otherwise miss their targets except the one against Laurana.
The blade just grazes her cheek drawing little blood.
Vexin Sixtoes
Vexin Sixtoes: Rar
Vexin Sixtoes bones sna, crackle, and reform, fur replaces skin, and a zebra-striped Dire Lion charges the front draconian
The drac is scraped with tooth and claw and then moments latter is placed firmly in the grip of the lion's maw
Aran spins and brings his sword down upon the drac
The blade slashes into the lizardmans arms and legs
Avariss
Avariss draws on the strength within and she two increases in power (Strength of Honour +4 STR, for 5 rds) she then swings powerfully (power attack -4) at the miotaur that attacked her (#10).
Avariss: Oh whoops1
Avariss: Better
The two swings manage to sever the bullmans head from his neck. He falls to the ground as the head falls to Avariss' feet
The blade continues on and slices a deep stinging cut into the drac's sholder
Marie
Marie takes a poke at the grappled drac, trying not to hit the lion.
The rapier cuts deep into the dracs back. It comes out and blood spurts out of the wound like a fountain. The drac squirms in the grip of the lion
Brian moves to help Derek
the sword cuts into the drac right below the neck
Laurana attacks the drac in front of her
The drac manages to parry and block the two swings with difficulty
Gil shoots another arrow at the lone drac away from everyone
The arrow thunks straight into his chest
Derek slashes his sword at his opponent
Derek's sword slides free from the drac as it turns to stone
The remaining minotaurs lumber toward the battle
Lion (Vexin) drops one drac to snap at the bullman
The lion snaps up the minotaur in his jaws. The drac is thankful it is no longer him
Taurus
Taurus circles around the boulder to the right, seeing Laurana up the front fending off the Drak's with Avariss he steps up to her side and takes a quick sharp swing at the creature.
Taurus: Might I be of assistant? M'Lady?
The sword bites into the drac, cutting him on the scaled brow. Blood drips down his snout
The dracs all move in with their weapons. Their attacks are blocked with skill except one manges to slice open Aran and the other manages to plunge his weapon into the massive lion