029.3 Demedais, Engan and the guidance of Helm

[Corwin]

[19:18] <Kotono> ---
[19:19] <Kotono> It came all at once. The milieu of dreamy nothingness is stripped away by a firm hand. Instead, Demedais finds himself sitting in a grand temple of arches and metal, endless and eternal. He wears nothing but simple clothes, weaponless.
[19:20] * Demedais looks around, a bit shocked. "This is..." he says softly, before trying to see anything beyond the arches.
[19:23] <Kotono> The hall stretches longer than you can see. It's so wide that there are no walls in sight, , only lofty arches cresting far above you.
[19:25] <Demedais> "...very well." Demedais glances down at his clothing, a bit nervous and awkward without a sword at his left, before advancing down the hall cautiously.
[19:28] <Kotono> As Demedais walks, images form around him. He sees himself in his room at the crack of dawn, gathering his things. He puts on plain traveling clothes(No armor, notably), wraps his sword inc loth and slings it over his back, and finishes by putting on his red cloak from the gnomish ruins. So lightly equipped, he checks the rest of his things(Including armor) and leaves them behind, hurrying out of his room.
[19:31] * Demedais pauses for a second, trying to remember if the visions show him taking the Fifth Resort, before continuing down the hallway.
[19:32] <Kotono> Just regular travelling clothes, his sword and his cloak. From there the visions continue - horse awaits him just outside of the gates of Balmuria, the dawn breaking as he gets on. He travels to the north at a breakneak pace...
[19:34] <Demedais> "...right." Demedais murmurs as he continues, beginning to get the feeling the time he has is minimal.
[19:35] <Kotono> Demedais races on Horse, headin gnorth. Eventually, he gets off and stands before a misty portal. Demedais is seen taking a deep breath...but the shine of duty is in his eyes. With resolve he steps into the portal, and...with a start Demedais awakens in his room, the very first ray of the dawn sun making him blink. The dream says with a vivid clarity, overwhelming.
[19:38] <Demedais> "Let's hope I remember that path." Demedais mutters as he acts as the dream bid him to, quickly dressing and preparing his sword before quickly walking out to the gate.
[19:40] <Kotono> The streets of dawn Balmuria are somewhat quiet. The people that pass are mostly not awake, only starting their days labors. Despite that Demedais gets a few salutes and waves, but nothing too notable. On outside, he finds Horse waiting patiently. Sitting besides the gate is Biggs, yawning and with his spear besides him. He eats breat and drinks water, looking on as he smothers a ywan. "Morning, sir," he salutes absently. "Going out for a
[19:42] <Kotono> "Going out for a morning ride?"
[19:45] <Demedais> "It's possible it may take me longer than that." Demedais says without stopping, still a bit drowsy even as he gets onto Horse. "Not sure when I'll be back; keep vigilant in your watch."
[19:48] <Kotono> "Sure," Getting up and smothering another yawn, "...be careful, sir," he adds after a moment.
[19:49] <Demedais> "...I will. You too, Biggs." With that, he quickly heads out, following the path dream-Deme took.
[19:52] <Kotono> Horse sets a pace that makes the dawn light around him blur. He is aware of travelling north, but his Horse seems to know exactly where it wishes to go. After perhaps a few hours, Horse abruptly stops in a field. It's a pretty place, the morning sun beaming down.  Here he stops and lies down, for ahead is a shimmering space of air. A portal, with hints of mists around the edge.
[19:54] <Demedais> "You know, if it weren't for the fact that some celestial force had to summon you - and at the gates, no less - to lead me here, I'd be rather worried about the whole damned thing." Demedais says dryly to Horse as he dismounts and examines the gate. After a slight inhalation, he steps through. "Caution was never my strong suit..."
[19:59] <Kotono> It only lasts a moment - a moment of disorientation and surprise. Then it's over, and instead Demedais stands here. He stands in the morning sunlight, in a battlefield. A gray beared man with several wounds over his body stands defiant, plate armor shattered and a bastard sword in hand. Around him lie about four bodies, face down and wearing Malmuthian uniforms. (More)
[20:03] <Kotono> A battlefield in a hilly area, atop one and where the bodies lie. The fighting man looks triumphant, battered beaten but alive. His broken armor carries no crests, his sword bright. After a moment, he falls to his knees, holding his torn open shoulder and breathing raggidly.
[20:05] * Demedais looks around quickly, before moving to the soldier. "Sir, do you need assistance?" he says, attempting not to startle him.
[20:10] <Kotono> The man turns in a whirl, weapon hefted. Despite his wounds his eyes are painfully sharp, even as small streaks of blood rund own his face. "...what...?" he asks aloud as he sees Demedais, "Who are you?"
[20:13] <Demedais> "My name is Demedais, a paladin of Helm, and quite frankly I'm even more confused now that I'm here instead of in Balmuria's area where I was a second ago, but you're injured, so. First things first." Demedais says rapidly before reconsidering and quickly casting Detect Chaos as he approaches to heal the man's wounds.
[20:26] <Kotono> No chaos on the man. He slumps down, holding his side now. "Balmuria...what are you talking about?" He looks on, eyes narrowly focused on Demedais. "Why are you here?"
[20:27] * Demedais inhales. "Let me heal you and then we can talk." He glances down to the dead Malmuthian soldiers. "I suspect we're on the same side, anyway."
[20:27] <Kotono> With a grunt he nods his head. "Fine."
[20:31] * Demedais nods and places his hand on the man's head, calling forth his healing into him before following it up with a shot of the cure light wounds wand.
[20:31] <Demedais> roll 1d8+19 (18 lay on hands + 1 clw wand modifier)
[20:31] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d8+19 (18 lay on hands + 1 clw wand modifier) and gets 24."12 [1d8=5]

[Corwin]

[18:37] <Kotono> Healing pours into the wounded warrior, partially mending his injuries. While many of the worst are sealed, more remain. It's enough to make him get up, appraising you with cool eyes. "...a magic user? I thank you," he half bows, injuries still leaking blood. "Why are you here? I doubt those are the last of the soldiers they're going to send after me."
[18:38] <Demedais> "Not a magic user, a paladin." Demedais says, a bit miffed. "I was sent here by Helm, I believe... and why are these soldiers after you?"
[18:39] <Kotono> "Still...magic." Shaking his head wryly, "I don't know the way of magic, but..." Pausing after that and readying his sword, "It's a very long story and this isn't the place. There's a secluded little gully a few miles towards the east, it should be safe for the night."
[18:41] <Demedais> "Very well. I can possibly heal you more there, if needed. At the least, I can patch those wounds up." Demedais nods,.
[18:44] <Kotono> "I thank you..." He breathes out, looking up. The sun is working it's way up in it's morning zenith, nearly noon here. "The garrison stationed in Tauret shouldn't be that fast unless they have wings. C'mon."
[18:45] <Demedais> "Tauret..." Demedais ponders as he follows the man to the east, trying to recall anything he learned of that name while in Malmuth.
[18:48] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[18:49] <Kotono> So Demedais travels as he thinks. The man makes a good pace, a half hour passing in good speed. As you climb up a rough, rock laden hill, "...Engan." He offers as he goes, "You?"
[18:53] <Demedais> "Demedias." He nods to the man, still a bit lost in thought. "So are we more east or north of Tauret?"
[18:56] <Kotono> "East. I'm heading to the Enaldis Mountains," he grunts, keeping his pace crisp and quick. "Oh yes, you appeared as if by magic?"
[18:59] <Demedais> "Yeah. Thus my complete confusion.." Demedais says simply as he matches the man's pace.
[19:00] <Kotono> "...huh." He glances back at you, beard stained with flecks of red. "Why'd a God be interested in me? Should I be flattered?" he asks, a little tight.
[19:03] <Demedais> "Depends." Demedais says a bit lightly. "But I'd say yes. As for why he's interested, only Helm could know."
[19:04] <Kotono> The grunt you get back sounds a lot like nothing at all, his pace still hurried. "What was that about Balmuria before?"
[19:09] <Demedais> "It's where I'm from." Demedais replies, looking at the main to try and appraise him a bit better. "And yourself?"
[19:10] <Kotono> "Malmuth, the capital city," he answers, "Or I was, but I've been on the move the last few years." Keeping his pace firm, his body moves in a steady, controlled way despite his injuries. He wears his armor well, even if it's broken and likely in need of considerable repair.
[19:12] * Carthrat is now known as Carthrat-Sleep
[19:15] <Demedais> "Mmm." Demedais says, not responding much further than that, instead choosing to meditate upon this entire business.
[19:17] <Kotono> A few hours pass. Noon comes and goes before you crest yet another hill. At last you come to the gully in question - a small stream runs in it, and there are a few small trees on the banks. Going there, Engan looks about. "I can catch some fish to eat," he muses as he begins to strip off his ruined plate armor. "Can you make a small fire with manageable smoke? We'll travel longer on hot food and we're going to need it."
[19:23] <Demedais> "I should be able to manage it." Demedais muses. "Had to do it enough before, after all." Crouching down, he quickly grabbed two fallen branches and some debris in order to make the fire.
[19:28] <Kotono> So a fire is made without incident. Engan catches fish with a cunning hand, he simply waits by the water and grabs them with ease. He misses at times, but with patience he secures several with his bare hands.  Soon the fish are cooking and rest is had. "...Balmuria, eh?" he says aloud. "That's part of the United Baronies now, I think?"
[19:31] <Demedais> "Indeed. It has prospered quite well over the recent years." Demedais nods. "As much as I hate to pressure you... those soldiers?"
[19:32] <Kotono> As the fish fries and the smell fills the air, "Disagreements with the Empire," he says bluntly. "I want one thing and they want another, and they're pressing what they want by trying to force me."
[19:37] <Demedais> "I see." Demedais muses. "I'd wonder why they'd be so vehement, but having lived under the Empire for almost all of my life, I recognize the concept. Attempting to get the opposition to convert by words if possible, by force if necessary."
[19:38] <Kotono> Pausing to poke the fire with a long stick, "Something akin to that, yes." He eyes Demedais, "You're a little young to remember too much of the Empire if you've been in Balmuria since you were born?" he thinks, "Five years? Do you remember that much?"
[19:41] <Demedais> "I was nineteen when the Empire left Balmuria, and traveled in Malmuthian lands for about four and a half years after that. They were not fond of letting priests, clerics, and paladins that didn't have their base in solidly Malmuthian lands travel about, but once they withdrew from Balmuria, the objections mostly ceased. Especially since I was mainly going to temples out in the wilderness and not toward the ones in towns.
[19:42] * Demedais pauses for a second, lost in thought as he attempts to recall if there's a temple anywhere near here...
[19:43] <Kotono> OOC: Knowledge: Religion check, I reckon.
[19:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7
[19:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 and gets 15."12 [1d20=8]
[19:48] <Demedais> "Mmm. There should be a temple to Helm near the connecting point between the Enaldis Mountains and the Barbarian lands, if I remember correctly." Demedais muses. "It'd make a good place to go, if you have no other ideas."
[19:49] <Kotono> "Mm." He matches that as well, "I have my own ideas, but at the moment I'll think about it." Stopping as he gets the fish out, "..let's eat first, though."
[19:51] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais nods, a bit startled to realize he's actually hungry.
[19:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[19:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 13."12 [1d20=9]
[19:55] <Kotono> The meal passes without incident. On finishing, Engan pauses to consider, "We could travel now and rest at night, or rest now and travel during the darkness. I'd go at night if it's myself, but..." A look to Demedais, "You look like you're going to get wrapped up in this, aren't you?"
[20:00] <Demedais> "If I've been sent here by Helm, I honestly doubt it was just to walk back to Balmuria for the exercise." Demedais says dryly. "As for whether or not we travel during the night, I'm perfectly willing to travel at night myself. Confessionally, I rarely sleep, so once you need to rest I can act as sentry."
[20:09] <Kotono> "Fine...You aren't going to run off, are you?" He asks, before shaking his head. "Don't feel obligated to get entangled. This erally doesn't have anything to do with you."
[20:17] <Demedais> "..." Demedais looks down for a moment, before looking back up to Engan, shaking his head. "Helm has gotten me involved with this, whatever else is going on, Engan. I'm in this for as long as I need to be. Alt.hough... A bit more illumination on this situation would be appreciated."
[20:22] <Kotono> "...tell me," Engan begins, "How well do you know how to fight?"
[20:26] <Demedais> "I have no small amount of fighting capability, Engan. My current role in Balmuria is as a member of the Crimson Guard, the elite fighting force there." Demedais replies. "In battle, I'm not much for finesse, in admittance, but my strength has seen me through a great amount."
[20:29] <Kotono> "...heh." Engan chuckles at that, but it doesn't last at all as Demedais goes on. "Reckon you're one hell of an unlucky fellow, Godfavored or not."
[20:30] <Demedais> "You have a reason for thinking that, Engan?" Demedais says, with a small chuckle.
[20:33] <Kotono> "Yeah." Leaning back a little as he looks up at the sun high in the sky, "Why do you think that yourself? Does the Crimson Guard have a working brain in there?"
[20:36] <Demedais> "Yes, sir, we do." Demedais says, suddenly looking rather irritated. "And it'd probably not be wise for you to mock them."
[20:38] <Kotono> "Then why don't you tell me - why should I be thinking you're a hell of an unlucky fellow?"
[20:39] <Demedais> "Because I've been dragged into your business without a clue or an idea of what's going on, in business which you estimate there is little chance of survival?" Demedais says sharply.
[20:49] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[20:51] <Kotono> After a few moments Engan continues on, "Yes, I suppose so," he allows after a moment, but doesn't follow that up with a commenta t all.
[20:51] <Demedais> "Mind to clarify as to the situation we are now in, then?" Demedais contiues.
[20:54] <Kotono> "In short?" Engan considers, "You're akin to the Balmurian champions - the best warriors, far stronger than any footman?"
[20:55] <Demedais> "Yes." Demedais says. "Although, dressed in normal traveling clothes and with a different blade, the only thing to give me away is my tonsured head, if that's what you're worried about."
[20:56] <Kotono> "...I suppose they think I should be a champion for them, for Malmuth," Engan replies after another moment, shaking his head.
[20:57] <Demedais> "I see." Demedais says after a moment. "And from the bodies back there, I take it you have no interest."
[21:00] <Kotono> "None." He says this with a blunt finality, head shaken again. "...It's not what I want at all."
[21:06] <Demedais> "...I can understand that." Demedais says, nodding finally. "I am willing to fight for Balmuria, simply because I owe so much for it. However..." Demedais looks up to the sky. "Once this duty is over - if Balmuria and Malmuth ever find a stable peace, and all other issues are suitably resolved... I will be more than willing to lay down my sword. For now... for now, and for as long as Helm needs me, duty above all else."
[21:08] <Kotono> "You'll never get that," Engan says with a heavy finality in his voice. "There's always fighting and more reasons to fight. Even to get a chance to live how I want I have to fight."
[21:12] <Demedais> "This is most likely true." Demedais says, sighing. "I tend to be optimistic, however - perhaps to my detriment, but..." After a moment, "So you plan to journey where you hope they cannot reach you."
[21:13] <Kotono> "Or where I can hide away." He shrugs, looking down at his blade. "This blade is my entire life." he draws it out, "It's a part of me, a part of my very soul. I'm tired of bloodiying myself every time I have to battle."
[21:19] <Demedais> "To be so in tune with your blade..." Demedias says, looking at it with his head tilted back a bit before shaking his head. "I am impressed, Engan; but I could see how that..." He shakes his head for a moment. "It is hard to imagine."

[Corwin]

<POSSIBLE MISSING LINE(S)>

[21:22] <Kotono> "It's a gift," he murmurs, "And a curse all in one. If I didn't know this...bah." Sheathing his weapon back away, "What ifs are for the dying and old. I still have a few more years left in me." Looking at Demedais, "But I suppose you can understand that. Would you be in the Crimson Guard if you weren't Godtouched?"
[21:24] <Demedais> "No. It was Helm himself who guided me to them." Demedais nods, pondering this.
[21:25] <Kotono> "The military knows what Ic an do and wants me to use that for them. I'm not interested but they aren't taking no for an answer." With that he looks downward, "The situation's degenerated in the last few days. They were willing to at least accept me staying in Tauret before, but now they're forcing my hand. They were going to arrest me if I didn't get away."

[Corwin]

[19:06] * Demedais meditates on this a bit. "Why are they trying to force your hand now?"
[19:15] <Kotono> "Why would you think the Empire of Malmuth is desperate for champions?" Engan asks right back.
[19:16] <Demedais> "Because they see the Crimson Guard as a threat..." Demedais says, shaking his head in irritation.
[19:19] <Kotono> "Bigger scope, maybe?" Engan snorts, "Who knows? Another fly's crawled up his Great and Almighty Majesty's asshole."
[19:22] * Demedais snorts and looks away for a second, before glancing back at Engan. "How did you become so attuned with your sword, if I may ask? The way you describe it... it goes beyond the normal, or even the unusual."
[19:27] <Kotono> "My love is my sword...?" Engan notes that with a note of his own amusement. "No. It's...special." He draws it out once more, an excellent quality bastard sword. He sets it against his knees, the blade finely polished. "A long time ago I leanred a special way of fighting, including putting special means directly into my weapon."
[19:29] <Demedais> "Special means..." Demedais muses. "To truly imbue a part of the sword... with yourself?"
[19:30] <Kotono> "And money. Don't forget some money," Snorting aloud, "Money makes the world go 'round and 'round and 'round. But yes, in effect. I'm told it's magical now, but I don't really understand that part quite so well. All I know is that it's far better than a normal sword."
[19:34] <Demedais> "Heh." Demedais leans back, looking at it. "Such a thing... dangerous, yet..." A shake of the head. "I still cannot imagine it."
[19:36] <Kotono> "Yeah." Starting to lie down, placing his sword back in it's sheath, "I need to rest now for the coming night."
[19:37] <Demedais> "Very well. You rest, I'll keep watch. I'll need two hours to rest, myself, but that can come later; I woke up practically four hours ago, I think, so." Demedais says before grinning. "I ramble. Sleep."
[19:38] <Kotono> OOC - Keeping watch?
[19:39] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah.
[19:43] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[19:43] <Kotono> OOC: Make a generic spot check.
[19:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6 yay having a spot check?
[19:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 yay having a spot check? and gets 10."12 [1d20=4]
[19:45] <Kotono> The time to evening passes without incident. After rests are had Engan thinks, before simply hidin ghis ruined armor under a pile of rocks. "It's no good to me now and I'll travel faster without it," he grunts.
[19:47] * Demedais nods, silently looking out over the landscape.
[19:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 18."12 [1d20=8]
[19:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 28."12 [1d20=18]
[19:50] <Kotono> OOC - Spot check, both of you.
[19:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[19:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 24."12 [1d20=19]
[19:50] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6 hmph.
[19:50] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 hmph. and gets 17."12 [1d20=11]
[19:51] <Kotono> A few hours pass. As you climb down a hill, near the bottom of it's three hundred feet, Engan happens to glance back. His body instantly begins to duck, "Behind!" he whispers.
[19:54] * Demedais follows Engan's instinct and quickly ducks as well, wishing he had his shield at least...
[19:56] <Kotono> Just coming over the crest of the hill are three men on horses. They're just coming up now, starting to look ahead. Ahead of you is the end where there's a very shallow river and a few rocks of varying sizes, then another hill to crest, dotted with grasses.
[20:00] <Demedais> "Pursuers. Your call, Engan." Demedais mutters.
[20:12] <Kotono> After biting his lip a moment, "...hide. No need to fight if we can lose them." Looking around, Engan quickly goes to the biggest rock and huddles behind it.
[20:15] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais says quietly, moving to follow Engan while staying in the shadows if possible.
[20:19] * Tai{MustResetLaptopSettings} (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-160-72.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) has joined #evildunes
[20:19] * Tai{MustResetLaptopSettings} is now known as Taishyr
[20:19] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Taishyr
[20:19] * Demedais (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-160-72.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Taishyr))
[20:19] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[20:21] <Kotono> OOC - Hide checks. +5 bonus due to nighttime.
[20:21] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 21."12 [1d20=12]
[20:22] <Demedais> roll 1d20+5 oh dear.
[20:22] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+5 oh dear. and gets 23."12 [1d20=18]
[20:22] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[20:22] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 22."12 [1d20=16]
[20:22] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[20:22] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 16."12 [1d20=12]
[20:22] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[20:22] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 17."12 [1d20=10]
[20:24] <Kotono> As you do, you hear the sounds of horses coming down. Slowly down the hill...
[20:26] * Demedais clenches his eyes shut, hoping to Helm they weren't spotted. He really doesn't want to have to fight here...
[20:29] <Kotono> The horses get closer, as you can faintly hear Engan curse...
[20:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 20."12 [1d20=14]
[20:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 5."12 [1d20=1]
[20:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 26."12 [1d20=19]
[20:30] <Kotono> You hear the horses getting close and closer, they're coming down at a very good clip. At this rate they'll be down within seconds.
[20:30] <Kotono> *minutes.
[20:32] <Demedais> "Think they spotted us?" Demedais whispers, not moving from his spot but pulling his blade off of his back in preparation.
[20:35] <Kotono> Engan does the same, cursing again. "Possible..." He breathes, "Be ready..."
[20:35] * Demedais nods slowly, one hand on the cloth to quickly unwrap the blade if they come toward the hiding spot.
[20:37] <Kotono> They come closer! They're almost within range, when, "Engan the Master. Surrender now and you will be forgiven of your crimes," one calls. "If you are not him, come out with your hands up and you will not be harmed."
[20:40] <Kotono> Engan curses again, lightly. "If you want to go out, you don't have to fight," he whispers to Demedais. "Or run."
[20:43] * Demedais glances quickly toward Engan, and quickly whispers "Trust me for a second." before stepping out. "I am not Engan the Master, this man you seek. And galloping this loudly tonight? Quite unnerving, I'd say." Demedais says, stabbing his sword into the ground and stepping two feet away from it.
[20:45] <Kotono> There are indeed three. They all wear Malmuthian uniforms, with one wearing a plumed helmet and a shining breastplate. He has a lance out, and a sword at his belt. "Step forward and state your name and business," he says directly. The other two wear normal uniforms and use a longbow and a warmace, respectively, also mounted.
[20:48] <Demedais> "My name is Demedais, and my current destination is toward the old Temple of Helm near the intersection of the mountains and the Barbarian lands." Demedais replies, looking them all over himself.
[20:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 23."12 [1d20=18]
[20:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 and gets 13."12 [1d20=11]
[20:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20 and gets 18."12 [1d20=18]
[20:50] <Kotono> The lead one stops at that name, "...Demedais of Balmuria? Of the Crimson Guard, the paladin?" The leader suddenly asks cold.
[20:51] <Demedais> "You would be correct." Demedais says, matching the coldness. "Although right now I act completely independent of the Crimson Guard and of Balmuria. Helm has... effectively dragged me here, and sent me toward the temple. I don't even think the Crimson Guard has the slightest clue where I am right now."
[20:52] <Kotono> The leader stares, before shaking his head. "Come over here," he falls back, waving for his men to go to the side. "You're in no danger, but we cannot allow you to wander freely through Malmuth. We'll escort you back to Tauret and ask for instructions."
[20:54] <Demedais> "I apologize, but I cannot, gentlemen." Demedais says, shaking his head. "The urgency with which my god has called me... I cannot hesitate in following what I believe to be his directions."
[20:55] <Kotono> "Sir, please." The soldier's face hardens, "I cannot in good concience allow a soldier of the United Baronies and it's elite unit to wander freely through our lands. If you will not...I have no choice but to place you under arrest."
[20:59] <Demedais> "I understand your objection, but believe me, I'd rather not be here myself." Demedais says, his own face getting irritated. "And while I'd rather not fight, I'll be perfectly honest in saying that I've got no hesitation in disabling you all to follow Helm. You all -know- I'm capable of that, I'm sure." Demedais lets his voice drip with irritation here, leaning on his blade.
[20:59] <Kotono> OOC - That's a call for an intimiadation check if I've ever seen one.
[21:00] <Demedais> roll 1d20+9 *wears the "I Hate Hatbot" charm*
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+9 *wears the "I Hate Hatbot" charm* and gets 19."12 [1d20=10]
[21:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 17."12 [1d20=11]
[21:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 10."12 [1d20=7]
[21:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 and gets 9."12 [1d20=7]
[21:02] <Kotono> Those words seem to shake the soldiers, one shakily raising his longbow and the other staring. The leader gulps a bit, "S-sir." He breathes out. "This is n-not acceptable. It's a lapse of my d-duty to do so. Please, please come with us."
[21:06] <Demedais> "...I traveled this land once before, as a guest of Malmuth, a pilgrim to all the temples I could find, abandoned and in cities, over the vastness of this country." Demedais says, quietly, face beginning to redden. "Treated civilly, kindly. And yet, now that I come here, not as a member of the Crimson Guard, which you may have a right to fear, but as one who follows Helm's orders..." He shakes, before grabbing his blade s
[21:07] <Demedais>  He shakes, before grabbing his blade suddenly and swinging it onto his shoulder, "You gentlemen think this is your duty, to accost me?!? You make three foolish mistakes!" (More)
[21:10] <Demedais> "The first! Your duty is not to me, but rather to this Engan the Master you are pursuing! While you discuss this with me, Engan could be moving anywhere. You waste your own time! Secondly. If you believe that I am here, attempting some sort of... mischief... I, slayer of Kondrux? The one who saved not just Balmuria, but Valandia as well, from that beast's breath and claws? Born in Malmuthian lands, and having lived almost
[21:10] <Demedais>  Born in Malmuthian lands, and having lived almost all his life there?!?" (More)
[21:14] <Demedais> Thirdly! Logically from this, it should be clear to your eyes that I do not represent Balmuria in my actions here, but rather Helm. However, by accosting and taking me with you, you make it a political and religious issue; you not only arrest Demedais, but a paladin of Helm on a quest from his deity, and a famed member of the Crimson Guard. Now, gentlemen." Demedais grins ferally. "Are you willing to do that, and break wh
[21:14] <Demedais>  "Are you willing to do that, and break what peace has been created between our two countries?"

[Corwin]

[16:16] <Ko-zzz> The soldiers are enraptured in a delicious mix of fear, shock and pure awe. The one with the mace simply rears his horse back, slack jawed. The bow in the hands of the second shakes, while the leader's mouth moves without making much sound. "Aaah...well...aah...I..." he fumbles along like a machine having false starts. He takes several long moments, before turning back to his men. "We'll hurry on and check the next hill northward," he dec
[16:20] <Ko-zzz> decides, tone shaky. Turning his back on Demedais, "H-have a good evening."
[16:21] <Demedais> "You too." Demedais says quite cheerfully, despite his face still being quite furrowed. He doesn't move, simply watching the three as they leave.
[16:24] <Ko-zzz> They make amazingly good time, going back up the hill and out of sight within a minute or so.
[16:25] * Demedais waits for a few more minutes, before turning back to the shadows where Engan is. "I didn't expect to get so worked up there..." he chuckles a bit.
[16:28] <Ko-zzz> Engan rises cautiously, dusting off his clothes. "It worked. Impressive," he notes, starting to look eastward. "Give them a few more minutes and then we'll get moving again?"
[16:29] <Demedais> "Sure." Demedais nods. "I was expecting a bit more spine from them, but I'll take this result."
[16:33] <Ko-zzz> As the minutes pass, Engan gets his things in order. "What was that about peace between the Baronies and Malmuth?"
[16:35] <Demedais> "Currently, there's been an unsteady truce between the two. Unsteady being the key word." Demedais said. "Better than nothing; there's still probably a lot of shadowy business going on, but at least it's not all-out war."
[16:35] <Ko-zzz> "Hmph." Engan mutters something at that, "I'll believe it when I see it."
[16:38] <Demedais> "Heh." Demedais says, shaking his head slightly. "So. Toward the temple, at least for now? So long as you stay in shadows near me, we shouldn't have any more problems with guards."
[16:40] <Ko-zzz> "Yes, let's get going," Engan is agreeable, as he begins to walk again...OOC - Skip ahead a bit?
[16:40] <Demedais> OOC: Sure.
[16:41] <Ko-zzz> roll 1d100
[16:41] * Hatbot --> "Ko-zzz rolls 1d100 and gets 51."12 [1d100=51]
[16:41] <Ko-zzz> roll 1d20+10
[16:41] * Hatbot --> "Ko-zzz rolls 1d20+10 and gets 25."12 [1d20=15]
[16:42] <Ko-zzz> You travel more miles slowly, the dawn now rising. The terrain is very subtly getting more rocky, your efforts heavy. Engan is able to find a small, shallow cave to rest in, not far from a small spring. Compared to the ground with lots of small rocks, it looks rather suitable for rest.
[16:44] <Demedais> "Shall we rest here for the day?" Demedais says, yawning a bit.
[17:05] * Ko-zzz is now known as Kotono
[17:06] <Kotono> "Yes, let's rest. We can resume tomorrow night." Setting down, "Was it true about that dragon, by the way?"
[18:26] <Demedais> "Yeah, although Helm knows it never would have been possible without the efforts of everyone in the town." Demedais replies, sitting in the cave a bit. "I was the one fortunate enough to get the final blow, although the accursed thing nearly finished me off..."
[18:28] <Kotono> "Heh. When did this happen," Engan inquires, "I haven't heard about any dragon, but I've been...distracted lately."
[18:33] <Demedais> "It happened about... only a few weeks ago? Shaaa. Seems like it was so long ago." Demedais said, shaking his head. "Effectively, an ancient dragon by the name of Kondrux waltzed up to the town and started demanding what amounted to a ransom for the town's safety. Same for Valandia. When the dragon came back, we beat it up. Had to use poison and a few other tricks, but the beast fell."
[18:36] <Kotono> "As long as it's dead...hmph." Engan ponders that a little bit, "No wonder they took your words so severely, if you're said to be a dragonslayer as such. If it threatened Valandia..."
[18:39] <Demedais> "It did. Never got back there to demand ransom, though." Demedais said, looking over the scenery. "I can understand them being suspicious of the Crimson Guard, but I'm both too high profile and way too incapable of actually being sneaky to actually be trying to overthrow them or hurt them or something.
[18:41] * Demedais pauses for a second. "Well, except arguably helping you get away from them is hurting them, but I suspect having a champion that really doesn't want to be there is a bad idea in general."
[18:41] <Kotono> "Heh." Engan just chuckles at that dourly. "Maybe so. You'd best hope youa ren't seen with me, though."
[18:44] <Demedais> "Mmm. I'm willing to take that risk, honestly. Besides, I didn't lie to those men; my purpose here is as a man of Helm, not of the Crimson Guard." Demedais replies. "Although..."
[18:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 and gets 11."12 [1d20=10]
[18:45] <Demedais> OOC: scratch that roll.
[18:47] <Kotono> "Still. If they realise Demedais of the Crimson Guard is in Malmuth and helping a Malmuthian...troublemaker..." He pauses over that word, "It will be poorly heard when it reaches King Ferdi; I can't imagine something like that wouldn't go to the top. He's very hands on with information."
[18:49] <Demedais> "This is true." Demedais said. "Which makes things more difficult... Tell me, are you... famous for anything other than your swordsmanship? I ask because... our best bet may be to pass through Barbarian lands and head toward Balmuria, where I can probably find you somewhere to go from there."
[18:50] <Kotono> Engan pauses, before shaking his head. "I'm just a warrior."
[18:51] * Demedais eyes the man, gauging this silently...
[18:52] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 sense motive check?
[18:52] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 sense motive check? and gets 22."12 [1d20=11]
[18:53] <Demedais> "...very well." Demedais says slowly, considering this. "If you are simply a warrior, and I haven't heard of you in general, it should not be hard to find you a place in Balmuria or anywhere else in the United Baronies, assuming you have no objections."
[18:54] <Kotono> "It's something I intend to worry about after sleep...but thank you," he nods once, going to lie down. "I'll catch food at sunset again."
[18:55] <Demedais> "Alright." Demedais nods, keeping an eye out for six more hours before it's his turn to keep watch.
[18:56] <Kotono> OOC - Spot check.
[18:57] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[18:57] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 9."12 [1d20=3]
[18:58] <Kotono> The day passes without incident. Come nighfall a small rabbit is caught, a primitive roasting occuring. The food is fresh and hot, filling. "I hope in a few days they will lessen their searches as we move farther away from Tauret," Engan muses as he eats. "We may also be able to slip into a mountain or mining village on the way to get more suitable supplies."
[19:00] * Demedais nods slowly. "As I see it, I am at least now bound to head to the Temple, as that is where they believe me to be going. From there, it is possible I may get more direction from Helm as to how to get both of us out of here. ...times like this, I wish I could contact Uatu..."
[19:02] <Kotono> "Uatu?" Engan inquires, "What the hell is Uatu?"
[19:02] * Alveria is now known as Carthrat-Sleep
[19:04] <Demedais> "A... being, who the Crimson Guard has relied on to assist them in a few situation. I call it being only because it's hard to really describe what it is now." Demedais says, halting at something. "I need to contact the priests near it at some point, thinking about it."
[19:05] <Kotono> With a grunt Engan rises, "It's not important and we need to stay focused. Ready?"
[19:05] * Demedais nods, a bit stiff from his short rest. "Yes."
[19:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 19."12 [1d20=9]
[19:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 27."12 [1d20=17]
[19:07] <Kotono> After about half the night passes, the clouds above part and the starry sky can be seen. In the fragments of the heavens you can see your patha head. A little animal trail upt he winging side of a long, almost flat rise, a very slow hill like a bump. A few trees are about, as well as a few sinkholes, collapsed five foot wide bits of earth that have fallen inward. But as you head down thi spath, in the distance, you can begin to see torchl
[19:08] <Kotono>  torchlight.
[19:08] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[19:09] * Amonet is now known as Seira
[19:09] <Demedais> "Engan. You stay back, find a place to hide where you can see this spot. I'll go ahead and see what's going on. If I don't return to this area by daybreak, go on ahead." Demedais says softly, before slowly sneaking up toward the torchlight.
[19:10] <Kotono> "Right," Engan nods agreeably, going back into the trees and hiding.
[19:10] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[19:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 20."12 [1d20=11]
[19:12] <Kotono> OOC - Trying to sneak up on them, eh?
[19:12] <Demedais> OOC: Well, moving quietly to see what's there, but not straying off the path to do so.
[19:13] <Demedais> OOC: More caution than stealth.
[19:14] <Kotono> So Demedais approaches as do the torches. It is a small caravan of six, all military, and lead with an officer with a wicked looking barbed polearm. The others use maces and bows and wear light armor, he wears chainmail.
[19:15] * Demedais glances to the faces of the six, attempting to see if there's any he recognizes amongst them, especially from last night.
[19:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[19:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 10."12 [1d20=6]
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 19."12 [1d20=15]
[19:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[19:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[19:15] <Kotono> So Demedais approaches as do the torches. It is a small caravan of six, all military, and lead with an officer with a wicked looking barbed polearm. The others use maces and bows and wear light armor, he wears chainmail.
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 6."12 [1d20=2]
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 19."12 [1d20=15]
[19:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 7."12 [1d20=2]
[19:19] <Kotono> Demedais doesn't spot any immediately familiar faces. A few of them are starting to look down the path, though.
[19:21] * Demedais raises his left hand and waves a bit in greeting, hoping Engan's far enough away so as to not be seen.
[19:26] <Kotono> The lead holds up his hand, "Company halt," he announces, "Traveller, step forward carefully and keep your hands up."
[19:27] * Demedais nods as he comes forward, both hands away from his weapons.
[19:30] <Kotono> The lead loos over Demedais before announcing, "This isn't Engan." The trope lowers it's weapons slightly. "Traveller, you'd best hurry along and skip by Barrow's Way ahead."
[19:30] <Demedais> "Barrow's Way?" Demedais asks, not remembering the name
[19:33] <Kotono> "It's the local hamlet," The captain looks over Demedais, "If you're not from there just keep on moving. They had a cave in today and the entire town is in dreadful panic. There's no way to get to the people trapped inside, but they can hear them screaming out by cracks in the cavein."
[19:34] <Demedais> "Oh... by Helm..." He closes his eyes, lost in thought. "There are many injured, I take it?"
[19:36] <Kotono> "About a dozen, and another dozen trapped inside. They're executed in all but reality...it's a shame, by his Majesty, but there's nothing to be done." The lead guard shakes his head, "Alright, get moving. YUou're not who we're looking for."
[19:38] * Demedais closes his eyes again. "Is there a convenient place around here I could rest for the night? I'd rather not travel much further in the dark."
[19:46] <Kotono> The captain thinks a moment, before, "There's a town past Barrow's Way, Solono.  You could probably reach it by sunup."
[19:48] * Demedais considers. "Very well, then. Thank you, sir." *Guess there's nothing to be done about it...*
[19:48] <Kotono> The soldiers continue on, the captain calling as he goes, "Good luck with you." They continue onward, leaving Demedais behind.
[19:50] <Demedais> "Thank you." Demedais says, nodding to them as he watches them go...
[19:50] <Kotono> They go on - past where Engan is hidden, not seeming to look so much and slipping right past him.
[19:51] * Demedais waits until he can barely see the torchlight before heading to get Engan.
[19:52] <Kotono> This happens soon. Engan gets up, dusting himself off. "Good, they ddin't even seem to look too much. What did you tell them this tiem?"
[19:54] <Demedais> "I barely needed to say anything. Didn't even ask who I was." Demedais said with a slight grin that quickly fades. "Apparently, there's been a disaster at Barrow's Way - a cave-in. We'd best avoid the town, it'll probably have at least some of Malmuth's attention." After a second, he tries to remember where the temple is in relation to these two towns...
[19:57] <Kotono> "..damn. It's not unheard of up here," Engan shakes his head, "Trying to get whatever iron they can or gold and they dig a little too recklessly."
[19:59] <Demedais> "That starved for resources?"Demedais says, shaking his head sadly. "Well, the temple's about ninety miles away... still a fair while, perhaps six to eight days. Hopefully, we don't encounter any more patrols."
[20:00] <Kotono> "Yeah. The gold's justmoney, but the iron...it's why we tradew ith the Baronies so much. I figured you'd now that since you're the ones making money off of it." Engan notes that as he starts to walk again, an eyebrow raised.
[20:02] <Demedais> "Yeah, I know it, but it's still odd to me to hear that you're so desperate for it even with trade." Demedais replies as he follows. "After our next rest, assuming we aren't disrupted again, there is one possible way to get there faster that I somehow failed to consider."

[Corwin]

[18:03] * Demedais nods slowly and does the same procedure at the second room.
[18:05] <Kotono> Demedais finds another like room, except for what looks to be a box near the cooking pot. A single mouse scurries away along the wall as Demedais peeks in.
[18:05] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[18:07] <Demedais> "Both rooms are empty." Demedais says. "So..."
[18:10] <Kotono> "Let's rest," Engan decides ater a moment, "A day with beds and real rest will do us some good."
[18:11] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais nods. "You may want to dismount Horse before I send him back." A grin at that. "Although it is a good way to dump a pompous windbag on his ass, if you're escorting people."
[18:13] <Kotono> Getting off the horse quickly, "I know someone who would fit for that just so." With his own chuckle, "Damnable fellow's aggrivating, even if he's apparently a good diplomat."
[18:14] <Demedais> "Count Almand?" Demedais stretches a bit as he sends Horse back to Helm with a word of thanks. "I could see that."
[18:15] <Kotono> "..you know him too?" Engan returns as he heads to the hut. "Oh, he must've been sent to Balmuria?"
[18:19] <Demedais> "Yeah. He was the diplomat that came to Balmuria for the dragon crisis. Argh. I swear, the man's dense as bricks and about as polite."
[18:20] <Kotono> A laugh gets otu of Engan, loud and rowdy. "Yes, by the Gods, that's well said." Once inside the hut, Engan goes right to a bed. "I suspect it's mostly just a series of ploys, but..." With an afterthought shrug, "I don't have to deal with the man."
[18:24] <Demedais> "Lucky you." Demedais says, moving to the other bed. "I had to ride in the same carraige as him for four days. Argh."
[18:26] <Kotono> "How did that happen," Engan inquires, starting to laugh.
[18:28] <Demedais> "I made the fool mistake of introducing myself as a member of the Crimson Guard, rather than simply as a diplomat to Valandia, if I recall correctly." Demedais said, lying down. "Something tells me he was trying to get me to join Malmuth, which really is a stupid thing to try and do, but..."
[18:28] <Kotono> The smile on Engan's face fades at that, "I suppose so."
[18:30] <Demedais> "I know at least one member of the Crimson Guard's been converted before. But... money, or power, or prestige... none of those interest me, so most of what he tried to bait me with didn't work." Demedais said with a chuckle.
[18:30] <Kotono> "...Berlioz." Engan murmurs aloud. "Good for you. What use is there for traitors?"
[18:36] <Demedais> "You've met him? I never had that chance." Demedais says softly. "And... none, so far as I am concerned."
[18:37] * Loligoth|AFK (~draomir@75-161-149-120.mpls.qwest.net) has joined #evildunes
[18:37] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Loligoth|AFK Loligoth|AFK
[18:38] <Kotono> "Heard of him," Engan admits at last. "I heard it second hand, anyway."
[18:40] <Demedais> "I see." Demedais said, closing his eyes for a small rest.
[18:41] <Kotono> OOC - Going to rest a bit then keep watch?
[18:43] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah.
[18:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 20."12 [1d20=13]
[18:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 27."12 [1d20=20]
[18:44] <Kotono> OOC - Make a spot check and a listening check both.
[18:45] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[18:45] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 23."12 [1d20=17]
[18:45] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3
[18:45] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 and gets 13."12 [1d20=10]
[18:46] <Kotono> Demedais keeps guard! This is a good thing, since a little past high noon he sees dust no the horizon, quickly heading for the huts. Looks like horses, plural.
[18:48] * Demedais quickly glances around, rapping on the door to wake Engan as he looks for a good hiding spot behind the huts.
[18:51] <Kotono> Behind the huts are rocks, trees and grass. It takes a moment for Engan to reply, as you can see the horses coming closer. Six of them, another Malmuthian patrol. They're making good time so they'll be here and within viewing range within a minute. "What? Demdais?"
[18:52] * Demedais quickly shoves Engan towards the rocks. "We've got a patrol. Go hide! Quickly!" Demedais keeps an eye on thee patrol as it approaches, trusting Engan to get out of the way.
[18:53] <Kotono> "Dammit!" Engan swears, stumbling back ni a hurry to hide!
[18:53] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[18:53] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 21."12 [1d20=12]
[18:56] <Kotono> As Engan races behind the rocks, Demedais sees the patrol. Another batch of troops, approaching Demedais. "Ho, traveller!" The lead man calls.
[18:59] * Demedais raises his hand in greeting to them as well, looking over them to check for known faces again.
[19:02] <Kotono> It looks like a third, different patrol altogether. Squinting in the sun, "What do you here?"
[19:04] <Demedais> "I travel to the temple to Helm on the border of the Barbarian Lands and the Etrian Mountains." Demedais replied genially. "And you all?"
[19:10] <Kotono> "We'rel ooking for someone. His name is Engan and he is wanted." His voice is crisp as he glances around.
[19:12] <Demedais> "I see..." Demedais says. "And you believe him to be traveling on this path?"
[19:15] <Kotono> "It may very well be. Have you seen this man? He carries a bastard sword and looks middle aged, with a graying beard?"
[19:18] <Demedais> "Mmmm." Demedais says, pausing. "In fact, I believe I have seen him. He was traveling in this direction, so you're going the right way. He and I spent the night near Solono - I have no money on me, so staying in the town was out - but he left near night-time." Demedais finishes. "Maybe this will help you, guardsmen."
[19:20] <Kotono> "...I see." The guardsman nods quickly, "Then this makes a good base of operations. You two, secure the perimeter and we'll use the huts to operate out of. You two, go begin a sweep. The last one is with me." After a moment, "Thank you. If we find him on this information you will be eligable for a reward His Majesty has recently established for his capture."
[19:21] <Demedais> "A pilgrim of Helm needs no reward, good sir." Demedais says, hoping that Engan's heard all this and is prepared to run or fight...
[19:22] <Kotono> "Then donate it to your church." The captain shrugs easily, "You'll still have done us a great service." Meanwhile, you begin to see the two starting to search...
[19:22] <Kotono> They look to be working very methodically, tearing things up. There's time, but they're sure doing a godo job of it.
[19:27] * Demedais considers the situation, before walking past the guardsman a little bit and looking around, first into the forests, then towards the rocks where he thinks Engan went for a second to see if he's still there before glancing toward the huts.
[19:34] <Kotono> OOC - Trying to see him or just making a show of it?
[19:35] <Demedais> OOC: Seeing if he's visible to a glance just on the off chance, but if he's hidden, I'm not expecting much.
[19:37] <Demedais> OOC: Er, well-hidden.
[19:37] <Kotono> OOC: Spot check it then, I su'pose.
[19:38] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[19:38] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 13."12 [1d20=7]
[19:43] <Kotono> Demedais can't find him on a casual inspection; looks like he hid well.
[19:46] * Demedais closes his eyes, sensing a fight coming. "Shall I help your men search?" he asks after a moment, gesturing toward the rocks.
[19:49] <Kotono> "By all means," The captain calls, "It's good to run into such a good citizen."
[19:50] * Demedais nods and heads over to the rocks, smiling slightly as he hops onto a shorter one and looks around, trying to spot Engan from here.
[19:53] <Kotono> Engan is curled up behind a rock, sword out and being very quiet. The soldiers haven't quite caught up with you yet.
[19:56] * Demedais looks to see how close they are before doing anything else; he wants to both be able to quickly mutter something to Engan and wave off the two soldiers so they don't search this area.
[19:58] <Kotono> They're about fourty feet away, searching diligently.
[19:59] * Demedais waves to the two. "I'll look over this outcropping of rocks; you gentlemen continue on?"

[Corwin]

[17:36] <Kotono> There doesn't look to be anyone around as Engan gets on. "Thanks," he says, balancing himself. "I thought I was going to have to fight again there."
[17:37] <Demedais> "So did I.... Apparently I should've just become an actor." Demedais grinned. "But that's an idea for later. Let's go." With that, he spurs Horse east, ready to restore him as he tires.
[17:38] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[17:38] <Kotono> OOC - Heading towards the temple still?
[17:40] <Kotono> OOC - Oh, I just go ACES on reading comphension, don't I?
[17:40] <Demedais> OOC: Apparently so. Can't really go toward the temple, Malmuth's likely to swarm that way.
[17:40] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[17:40] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[17:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 22."12 [1d20=17]
[17:40] <Kotono> roll 1d1--
[17:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d1-- and gets Error: Check syntax."12 [1d1=1]
[17:40] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[17:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 35."12 [1d100=35]
[17:41] <Kotono> The rest of the night passes without incident. Hores preforms well once more, a small cave in an increasingly rocky path found to rest in. Over a captured animal, "How many more days do you think we'll be?" Engan asks. "I'm still not sure about that magical horse of yours."
[17:43] * Demedais considers. "I'm honestly not sure... let me think about it." he says, trying to figure out how much farther he needs to go...
[17:43] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[17:45] <Demedais> "...perhaps about half of the way there." Demedais says after a little bit. "Horse is doing surprisingly well here, but he can't move as fast as normal over the rocky terrain." A second passes, then, "Still not sure about the magical horse why?"
[17:46] <Kotono> "I'm just not used to it and I'm not sure on it's progress. It disorients me," he shrugs, "It rides better than a normal horse, too."
[17:48] * Demedais nods. "One of the nice things about being a paladin." he grins. "I've begun to rely on him - perhaps overmuch at times, but his speed and reliability is excellent."
[17:50] <Kotono> "Yeah," he says at last, after some thought. He closes his eyes, "Tell me...is being a paladin worth it?"
[17:54] <Demedais> "... is it worth it? For me, yes." Demedais pauses, looking out over the horizon again. "I was an orphan; grew up in the Temple, helping the priests with chores. Helm has... always been there, in a way. Part of that's just being in a temple, but..." Demedais closes his eyes for a second. "I initially did it to pay back what I saw as a debt to Helm..."
[17:56] <Kotono> "..mmm." Engan is silent for a little while, "What was the debt that so compelled you?"
[17:58] <Demedais> "Without the temple, I surely would be dead by now." Demedais replied, still with his eyes closed. "My mother, or father, or whoever abandoned me... did not do like most do with unwanted children, hiding them in alleys until they stop crying or abandoning them on some distant hill. Instead, they placed me there, on the steps to the temple... I can only think Helm guided them there."
[17:58] <Kotono> "Lucky kid," Engan notes at that, "Instaed of just another street urchin you got a chance to be something."
[18:01] <Demedais> "Precisely." Demedais said, looking out. "I was very, very lucky. ...but it, my debt, it changed. Sometime along my pilgrimage, I began to truly understand what was said about duty, about vigilance, beyond what the temple usually espoused; duty to country and temple, duty to authority. That's... not fully what Helm spoke of, I've come to believe.".
[18:03] <Kotono> "Hmph." Silent after that, "Then what is it your God speaks of, Demedais? I thought Helm was all about blind allegance to what you're told to do."
[18:07] <Demedais> "To find the path you are called to - your duty - and to take it, no matter the obstacles." Demedais looked levelly to Engan, a slight smile. "And to accept this duty, and perform it without hesitation. This may mean disagreeing with orders. It may mean..." Demedais grins slightly more widely, a self-mocking grin; "...deserting your post and your Guard to go assist a man thousands of miles away. But..."
[18:09] <Kotono> "But you're dedicated or foolish enough to do it anyway," Engan begins to smile a tiny bit, "No matter what?"
[18:12] <Demedais> "Bingo." Demedais chuckled. "Dedicated or foolish, determined or unsure..."
[18:13] <Kotono> "...you're dedicated enough to take an oath, even if it could lead to your ruin?" Engan presses a moment. "If it's your duty?
[18:13] <Kotono> ""
[18:15] <Demedais> "...yes." Demedais said. "I am. After all..." A grin. "Is that not what being a soldier, a member of the Crimson Guard, a paladin, is? If you go into such things, not knowing what risks await you..."
[18:17] <Kotono> "..when we get to the temple and somewhere safe, I'll be able to offer you a reward," Engan says, without preamble.
[18:18] <Demedais> "Don't worry about it, but... You want to go to the temple?" Demedais said, thinking. "We're kinda off the path from it, unless I'm underestimating how far north we've gone thus far...."
[18:22] <Kotono> "It seems to be the best place to go now," Engan shrugs. "I'd rather stay in the Enaldis mountains rather than going into goblin territories or sneaking into the elflands. One's dangerous and the other's temporary at best."
[18:24] <Demedais> "... I wonder..." Demedais pauses. "There is a member of the Crimson Guard who was going to the elflands... perhaps she is still there. We can use the temple as a resting point on the way there, however....
[18:25] <Kotono> "Oh yes..." Engan begins to shake his head. "I heard the United Baronies made official ties with them." He goes quiet a few momens, "That damned fool. I know his Majesty tried the same, but Nephaneal was reported to have failed early in his trip."
[18:26] <Demedais> "Nephaneal?" Demedais inquired.
[18:29] <Kotono> "...meh, why not?" Engan shrugs after a moment, "An envoy sent through the Barbarian Lands to reach Pallanth several months ago. He failed."
[18:31] <Demedais> "Ah. I haven't heard of him, so..." Demedais shrugs. "So. From here to the temple, then to the elven lands or the Etrian Mountains..."
[18:32] <Kotono> "I'm surprised..." Engan mutters to himself. "So yes, to the temple.
[18:33] <Demedais> "Alright." Demedais nods, leaning back against the inside of the cave.
[18:36] <Kotono> So rest comes. Nothing of note happens, the next night dark. Engan gets up, "I'm ready when you are," he says without preamble.
[18:37] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais says, calling upon Horse again and mounting without hesitation.
[18:41] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[18:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 21."12 [1d20=16]
[18:41] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[18:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 17."12 [1d20=12]
[18:41] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[18:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 100."12 [1d100=100]
[18:45] <Kotono> roll 1d1000
[18:45] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d1000 and gets 9."12 [1d1000=9]
[18:47] <Kotono> At about midnight you follow a simple path. Someone is coming - a single man on a horse, with a packmule following. He carries a torch, making it simple to see him as he approaches.
[18:49] * Demedais inhales slightly. "We have one person coming. I'd guess not a soldier. Want to dismount or just continue and hope he doesn't know who you are?"
[18:51] <Kotono> Engan shakes his head, "Your call, you're the one in danger if you get caught with me," he demures, "What do you think?" He looks at Demedais, critically eyeing him.
[18:53] * Demedais considers. "You dismount and duck aside quickly. I'm going to keep moving to pass him, and wait a little ahead for you, alright?"
[18:53] <Kotono> With a fluid motion Engan is off, going to hide with swift speed.
[18:53] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[18:53] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 11."12 [1d20=2]
[18:53] <Kotono> OOC - Go.
[18:54] * Demedais moves along slowly, keeping an eye on the approaching man as he stays mounted.
[18:57] <Kotono> The man wears rich, opulent clothes, threated gold, silver and platinum. He wears ample jewelry, keeping a good pace "Ho!" he calls in a rich voice, "Is that a wayfarer I see ahead?"
[18:58] <Demedais> "Indeed it is, good sir." Demedias replies, halting Horse. "How do you fare this night?"
[18:59] <Kotono> "The air is warm, the sky is starry," he waves his hand forth. "I find this place most pleasing. Aaaah..yes, yes."
[19:00] <Demedais> "Indeed. Where are you coming from, out of curiousity?" Demedais chats, hoping to keep the man focused on him.
[19:01] <Kotono> "Oh, from just around the bend," he murmurs, "You look like a well off, adventrous young man. You probably have a lot of gold on you?"
[19:02] <Demedais> "Hah." Demedais chuckles. "I've got pretty much none on me; being a pilgrim forces you to take a minimal amount of materials with you."
[19:03] <Kotono> "...oh. A pity..." The man murmurs, "Still, you have the look of someone who's well off." He eyes Demedais, "Young man, where do you call home?"
[19:05] <Demedais> "Balmuria." Demedais says simply, leaning back a bit. "I was staying there for a while, until Helm gave me a pull... and, well, here I am, traveling to the temple ahead." Despite his casual posture, Demedais is critically looking at the man; what is he getting at?
[19:06] <Kotono> His posture is confident, even if you see no weapon on his form. His eyes are jovial, yet look over Demedais with sharp aclarity. "Perhaps we'll come by there. There is so much see in this land now...it's like a fun trip for everyone.
[19:09] <Demedais> "This is true... 'we
[19:09] <Demedais> '?" Demedais questions, glancing at the man in slight confusion.
[19:11] <Kotono> His smile scomes quickly, "Oh, it's just been a long time since anyone's been here in earnest." Starting to travel along with horse and mule again, "Now to see what's aroundt he next bend, hm?"
[19:12] <Demedais> "Heh. Certainly." Demedais says, spurring Horse back and to the side a bit, right near where Engan dismounted. "May your travels be safe, sir."
[19:26] <Kotono> He goes off. Once he is, Engan peeks out. "What was that?"
[19:27] <Demedais> "I don't have a clue in hell." Demedais says after a second. "He seemed confident that I was rich or well off or something."
[19:30] <Kotono> "..strange." Engan shakes his head, "Let's just go, it was probably just an eccentric. I hope."
[19:32] <Demedais> "Yes, let's go quickly." Demedais nods, gesturing Engan onto the horse as he quickly moves on!
[19:34] <Kotono> The rest of the night passes without incident. The terrain is truly getting mountinous now, the distance closing. You find a small batch of trees to rest around this time. As you eat breakfast/dinner, "A few more days?" Engan muses aloud.
[19:36] <Demedais> "I'd guess so. Shouldn't be too long, now. We lost a bit of time traveling east, but that was probably a good thing to get away from patrols." Demedais nods.
[19:44] <Kotono> "Then let's rest and hurry on," he says, as he closes his eyes. But as he does, "...say. Demedais?"
[19:45] <Demedais> "Yeah?" Demedais replies, looking out over the area.
[19:47] <Kotono> "What do you want from Balmuria?" He inquires plainly.
[19:48] <Demedais> "What do I want from what?" Demedais asks, confused.
[19:50] <Kotono> "You serve'em, don't you? Do you want Balmuria to become glorious?" His question is pointed, "Or is it just part of your duty?"
[19:52] <Demedais> "It is part of my duty, I feel... it is also to protect my home." Demedais murmurs. "If it becomes glorious, prosperous, so be it, if that helps the people. I simply seek to protect it."
[19:54] <Kotono> "Would you give yourself to it?" Engan inquires right after, voice drifting away.
[19:55] <Demedais> "Give myself to protect it...? Yes." Demedais says, leaning against a tree.
[19:55] <Kotono> There aren't any more words after that. Engan instead goes quiet...
[19:58] * Demedais keeps watch, as usual.
[19:59] <Kotono> OOC - Spot check.
[20:02] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[20:02] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 14."12 [1d20=8]
[20:03] <Kotono> The day passes. The next night has a starry sky with a few black clouds racing above. Engan gets on Horse, "Almost..." he murmurs.
[20:05] <Demedais> "Yes, indeed." Demedais says, getting onto Horse and spurring him on.
[20:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 15."12 [1d20=10]
[20:06] <Kotono> The night passes. As down approaches, Demedais comes to realise that they're close now. Only a few more hours to the temple, he thinks...
[20:08] <Demedais> "We have only a little time left to the tower. Shall we press on?" Demedais tells Engan conversationally.
[20:09] <Kotono> Glancing at the rising sun, "We haven't seen patrols in a few days. If you think we can make it in a few hours."
[20:10] <Demedais> "Yeah, there shouldn't be any problems getting there soon, I believe. You should probably hide away from the temple while I make sure there's no patrols there, waiting, but after that..." Demedais nods.
[20:12] <Kotono> With that, Engan nods and settles in for the ride...OOC - Move you on?
[20:13] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah.
[20:15] <Kotono> By 10 AM you arrive! It is a classical styled temple, high arches and supported walls. It stands alone in the edges of the Enaldis mountains, secluded atop a cliff. There is a long, winding path up to it.
[20:17] * Demedais looks over the path for any signs of recent travel.
[20:17] <Kotono> OOC - Do you have tracking or anything related?
[20:19] <Demedais> OOC: Course not.
[20:19] <Kotono> OOC: Eh, I'll just call it an int check.
[20:19] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
[20:19] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 and gets 7."12 [1d20=6]
[20:20] <Kotono> Demedais isn't sure, but he doesn't think so.
[20:20] * Demedais hesitates, before shaking his head and looking around for a good place for Engan to hide.
[20:21] <Kotono> It's a ways back, some loose rocks and boulders. Nothing too close.
[20:25] <Demedais> "Stay hidden near those rocks until I come to get you. I want to make sure that the temple doesn't have any soldiers within." Demedais requests of Engan. "It's unlikely, but..."
[20:26] <Kotono> Looking on, Engan nods once, terse. "Alrigh, I'll wait."
[20:29] * Demedais nods, and advances up to the temple, trusting Engan to hide himself well.
[20:33] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[20:33] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 18."12 [1d20=9]
[20:33] <Kotono> The temple gates loom in front of Demedais. There is a bell with a plain rope hanging from the insides, waiting to be pulled.
[20:34] * Demedais pulls the bell and waits in silence.
[20:37] <Kotono> The bell tolls and echos around. Silence reigns for a minute or four, until the gates are opened. A man in full plate armor stands there, helmeted and at attention. "What is you seek in the house of Helm?"
[20:39] <Demedais> "I seek solely a room for two people and time to think, as a pilgrim of Helm." Demedais replies, looking over the guard as well as looking into the temple.
[20:40] <Kotono> The guard wears armor clearly designed to worship Helm, in the full style. "You have come far to our temple. Enter."
[20:41] <Demedais> "Let me call upon my companion, first; it was thought appropriate that I approach first, being the pilgrim who intended to come here." Demedais replies. "If that is permissible, brother."
[20:50] <Kotono> "Very well," the armored man agrees, voice steel tinged by his helmet.
[20:51] * Demedais nods slightly, and redescends to bring Engan out before going back to the temple. "If they recognize you... I may simply pull rank on most of them. Not too worried, here." Demedais remarks as an aside as they ascend.
[20:54] <Kotono> A nod, "Thank you, my friend," he murmurs as Demedais leads him back to the gate. The armored priest awaits there, a nod to the two of them. "We welcome you."
[20:55] <Demedais> "Thank you, brother." Demedais nods as he leads Engan in, looking for the head priest.
[20:56] <Kotono> The moment Demedais says as such, the armored man stops as the three walk through the courtyard. The courtyard is a simple place, a sparring ground and small stable here. "I am he - Denegrean. I am not so removed that I will excuse myself from a simple but important duty of guarding the front gate."
[20:59] * Demedais smiles. "I see. Thank you, High Priest. My apologies. Where may we find a room to discuss our next destination?"
[21:00] <Kotono> "We have rooms." Extending his hand out to Demedais, "May I have your names, pilgrims?"
[21:01] * Demedais hesitates, then nods. "My name is Demedais, and this is Engan. And recognizing either of those names likely could get you into trouble with Malmuth."
[21:02] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[21:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 11."12 [1d20=6]
[21:02] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
[21:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 19."12 [1d20=11]
[21:03] <Kotono> "....The wanted man, Engan?" The priest inquires with a frown. "Word of you has even reached here."
[21:03] <Kotono> Engan shakes his head, "It's...a difficult story, but I only ask for a place to rest briefly, at worst."
[21:05] <Demedais> "Yes. I am... not only a pilgrim but a paladin of Helm, who has been sent by Helm himself to protect Engan and help his escape from Malmuth, ensuring little to no blood is shed in the process." Demedais said, almost slumping a bit. "I am tired of bluffing..." A slight grin, tired.
[21:08] <Kotono> "He appeared before me as if by magic," Engan says, "If not for him I'd have been captured. I don't know much about Helm, but I believe Demedais speaks the truth."
[21:09] <Kotono> "This is a troubling matter," Denegrean's voice is heavy. "Come with me."
[21:11] * Demedais nods. "I had hoped not to burden you with it, but..." He then follows Denegrean, saying nothing else.
[21:12] <Kotono> Engan follows as well. Denegrean makes a fine pace onward, into the church. Here there are no pews, only a vast altar to Helm. At each angle around it men in armor stand proud guard, raising their swords to the sky when the high priest enters. "We watch as the Great Watcher dictates!" Denegrean nods, "I see your vigliance and commend you," he speaks. The altar is made of wood and iron, six feet tall and quite wide.
[21:14] * Demedais stiffens a bit. "This is a grand temple, High Priest..." he murmurs, looking around.
[21:19] <Kotono> "Listen well! The paladin Demedais comes to this place claiming to bring a mission from Helm himself!" Denegrean's voice echos all around, cascasding heavenward. "We shall go to the altar, stand down your guard and watch!"
[21:20] * Demedais nods firmly and follows Denegrean to the altar, watching the High Priest to know where he desires Demedais to go.
[21:23] <Kotono> The watchmen step away, turning towards the altar. Around to the back Denegrean goes, kneeling. "Kneel with me," he instructs.
[21:24] * Demedais gives a sharp nod, and kneels at the altar alongside Denegrean, mouthing an old prayer Father Ceiar had taught him as he does so.
[21:27] <Kotono> Demedais kneels and prays! As he does there comes a feeling - a distinct feeling of cold mist against his skin. Just for a split second, then a sureness. It's like being touched, looked over, examined, seen. After that disorienting sensation, a sense of well being fills Demedais. In his mind's eye, a sword wrapped in cloth has a brilliant luster when at last taken out.
[21:29] <Demedais> "Helm... thank you..." Demedais murmurs softly, the memory of the cold mist still playing across his skin.
[21:30] <Kotono> Moments later, "W...what..." Denegrean gasps, "That was..." He looks up sharply, helmetd head staring straight ahead.
[21:35] * Demedais says nothing, still focused upon Helm.
[21:36] <Kotono> The feeling passes away, only leaving an aftertaste of serenity. But another sound breaks it - laughing. Engan is laughing, free and clear.
[21:36] * Demedais smiles as he stands and looks toward Engan. "Yes?"
[21:40] <Kotono> "Did you...did you feel that?!" Engan continues to laugh. "That was..."
[21:42] * Demedais smiles a bit more to the wanted man, but then looks to the High Priest, a bit worried but not wanting to say anything.
[21:47] <Kotono> "Helm has spoken!" Denegrean announces, "Demedais and Engan will be safe here. None shall disturb them!"
[21:48] * Demedais bows deeply to the altar, then to the High Priest. "Thank you, High Priest."

[Corwin]

[18:45] <Kokokokokoko> "How did you get into Malmuth," Olburt questions, to the point.
[18:46] <Demedais> "I got teleported in by Helm." Demedais states simply.
[18:54] <Kokokokokoko> Olburt looks on with a distinctly harsh look, "What of the criminal Engan? Has he become a part of your journey here as well?"
[19:00] <Demedais> "I kept on running into soldiers looking for him on the way here, if that's what you're asking. Even looked for him with one of the groups. Or... is that not what you're implying, General Olburt?" Demedais almost hissing, anger mounting. "I have come here peaceably. Are you attempting to start a fight?"
[19:02] <Kokokokokoko> "Young man...you are in Malmuth now. You would do well to remember that." His voice stays calm as a granite tomb's interior, hands resting at his sides. "I seek the truth of why an agent of the United Baronies is in our country. I see the report I got was accurate, and the fact that you arein the same region as the escaped crinimal raises questions that must be answered."
[19:04] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[19:08] <Demedais> "I am in Malmuth as a follower of Helm; I abandoned my post and duties in Balmuria to come here at Helm's request. My prayers here have proven fruitful. When I go back to Balmuria, I will have a lot of explaining to do; it will take time for them to regain their trust in me, but I have accepted that." Demedais said bitterly. "I have come here to focus myself, to determine what Helm wants me to do. Nothing more."
[19:11] <Kokokokokoko> "In that case, then I will insist our escort back to Valandia," Olburt says stonily, "Pilgrimage or not, we cannot permit a member of the Crimson Guard to come wandering freely and be ignored."
[19:15] <Demedais> "Firstly, I am not done here, gentlemen. Secondly, if I may propose something else? I will take the Barbarian Lands out; I will not visit any Malmuthian town, garrison, or anything else there; I will head with all due haste back to Balmuria, and then send a letter of both apology for entering your land under unacceptable conditions and to notify you that I have fulfilled my end of the bargain." Demedais proposes.
[19:22] <Kokokokokoko> Olburt is silent at first, letting the words hang in the air like a cruxification. "How do I not know you will claim Helm told you to do something else instead?"
[19:28] <Demedais> "...Insult inside, the question does raise an important point. However, you have patrols all around this area; you'd learn immediately if I chose to ride in any other direction than toward the Barbarian lands, would you not?" Demedais counters.."So. If Helm chooses another path than that for me... I shall ensure you know by telling you, personally, before I move any further. Is this acceptable? Or do you desire my oath as
[19:30] <Demedais> "Or do you desire my oath as a Paladin?"
[19:33] <Kokokokokoko> "I would prefer that, as a matter of fact," Olburt states without budging.
[19:38] <Demedais> "Very well, then. On my honor as a Paladin of Helm, upon the passing of two more days, I shall depart this temple into the Barbarian Lands, visiting no Malmuthian town or outpost as I travel back through the Barbarian lands to Balmuria. Furthermore, upon my arrival there, I shall notify the Malmuthian government of my arrival and apologize for entering without their permission." (More)
[19:40] <Demedais> "All this I swear to Helm shall be done with as much speed as possible; furthermore, I swear that I have come here as a Paladin of Helm, not as member of the Crimson Guard. All this, upon my honor and integrity as a Paladin of Helm, I give as oath to General Olburt."
[19:46] <Kokokokokoko> OOC - Bluff check here, I think. +2 circumstancial.
[19:47] <Demedais> roll 1d20+5 bloody hell hate rolling this sort of thing~
[19:47] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+5 bloody hell hate rolling this sort of thing~ and gets 17."12 [1d20=12]
[19:55] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d20+6
[19:55] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokokoko rolls 1d20+6 and gets 9."12 [1d20=3]
[19:58] <Kokokokokoko> At last Olburt nods, "Very well. I accept those words on your honor and your deeds, paladin."
[20:01] * Demedais inclines his head in a nod. "Thank you, General."
[20:06] <Kokokokokoko> "Fetch the high priest of this temple. We will require lodging here this night."
[20:07] * Demedais nods again and goes to look for the High Priest.
[20:14] <Kokokokokoko> He is found at the altar. "Well?" He asks in a single word, waiting.
[20:16] <Demedais> "I hope Engan is hiding. They desire to spend the night here." Demedais replied. "Or, as Olburt put it, they require lodging here tonight."
[20:30] <Kokokokokoko> "...I see." Denegrean's voice is heavy. "We cannot and will not willfully lie to them, Demedais. We willd efy them as Lord Helm has spoken, but...we will not flagrantly tell them falsehoods, either."
[20:34] <Demedais> "I know. It took me a fair amount of bluffing to convince them to not drag me away... which I would accept, but I cannot leave my duty to Engan. Do what you can; that is all I ask. I shall try to keep them busy, but..." Demedais pauses a moment. "I will try to have Engan leave tonight, as they sleep. That will lessen the chances of any conflict. ...I had hoped against this happening."
[20:38] <Kokokokokoko> "We will begin to move him earlier if possible. I will send a priest up to prepare him. Even if it brings the wrath of His Majesty on us, our duty is clear." Denegrean nods, going forth towards the courtyard.
[20:39] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais says, following Denegrean.
[20:41] <Kokokokokoko> Back outside, General Olburt continuest o wait. The head priest approaches him, "We welcome the servants of his Majesty," he begins. "You seek lodging here this day?"
[20:41] <Kokokokokoko> The general nods, "A room for myself and another for my aides," he speaks, "We thank you for your sense of hospitality."
[20:43] * Demedais stands patient, waiting for them to be entered into their rooms before he goes to the altar to pray. Rather hard.
[20:43] <Kokokokokoko> "This way, sir," Denegrean leads on, past Demedais. Olburt glances at him once more as he goes, but it's a neutral look. Thet wo aides look at him rather harsher,  eyeing him. "Crimson Guard..." one of the two mutters.
[20:46] * Demedais ignores the jab, instead looking at Olburt appraisingly, as if the oath took some steam out of him.
[20:48] <Kokokokokoko> The general is walking away, a brisk pace towards the inside of the temple. He wears his weapons with proud ease, standing tall.
[20:51] * Demedais follows Olburt and company as far as to the altar, where he kneels to pray to Helm, focused directly upon the threat from Olburt.
[20:54] <Kokokokokoko> OOC - Wisdom check. +2 circumstancial bonus right now.
[20:56] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4 come on
[20:56] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+4 come on and gets 8."12 [1d20=4]
[20:59] <Kokokokokoko> Demedais prays for a time. While he does not find the words of Helm, he does find himself rising from it a few hours later, feeling refreshed and calm. Rested in a way, but not quite like sleep.
[21:00] * Demedais nods slightly and looks around, more ready to handle whatever else actually happens today.
[21:01] <Kokokokokoko> Priests are around the altar, but not Denegrean or Engan or Olburt or anyone of immediate notice.
[21:03] * Demedais nods slightly and decides to wander around the temple to stretch his legs and think.

[Corwin]

[19:36] <Kotono> The outsid eof the temple is without note. Inside, you find General Olburt is upstairs and in hsi room. His two aides stand outside of his door. Past that? The temple is quiet, tense.
[19:40] * Demedais shakes his head quietly and returns to the main altar to pray and wait for something to happen.
[19:42] <Kotono> About an hour passes, before a priest comes to Demedais and bows politely. "He's been moved outside and away," he says under his breath, quiet.
[19:44] * Demedais nods, looking at the priest and then looking around. "Thank you. I shall get more details later."
[19:45] <Kotono> A terse nod, before he goes back to doing what he was before, leaving Demedais alone again
[19:47] * Demedais sighs silently and prays for Engan specifically, that he may avoid getting caught by anyone or anything.
[19:48] <Kotono> The hours pass by. As they do, Demedais is interrupted. General Olburt kneels next to him a moment, murmuring a few polite words of prayer. "I had not expected that the report was true, I must admit," he begins without preamble. "I did not think you to be that sort."
[19:49] <Demedais> "That I would be what sort?" Demedais asks, still kneeling with his eyes closed.
[19:50] <Kotono> "A spy." Olburt says it  matter of fact, "Besides problems with your identity, you did not strike me as the type."
[19:50] <Demedais> "A sp-" Demedais chokes down laughter. "A spy?!? Hah! Nothing of the sort, General."
[19:54] <Kotono> "Then do you stick to your story?" Olburt looks on, "That the Gods sent you?"
[19:55] <Demedais> "I stick to my story that Helm sent me, yes." Demedais said, regaining his composition.
[20:01] <Kotono> "Hmph. So be it," Olburt stands, "I wish you the luck of the Gods with that."
[20:03] <Demedais> "...you still suspect me? Then ask Helm yourself of this." Demedais said softly, standing quickly and gesturing at the altar to Olburt. "Surely here he will not deny you, General."
[20:10] <Kotono> General Olburt laughs a little bit, "I'll pass on that."
[20:15] <Demedais> "Hmph." Demedais says, turning back to the altar. "I heard of the accident at Barrows Point, but was told not to head there by some of the men searching for this Engan. What... is the current situation, there?"
[20:18] <Kotono> "They're digging them out, just to bury them outside of the mine," With a light, solemn look, "Mine collapses are a fact of living in this region and working in the mines."
[20:20] <Demedais> "Still..." Demedais turns away a bit, looking off at a distant wall. "My prayers are with them."
[20:23] <Kotono> "It's a tragedy," Olburt notes distantly as he walks away, leaving Demedais along for now.
[20:24] * Demedais grumbles something about people not trusting paladins before returning to prayer with a slightly ironic smile.
[20:25] <Kotono> The time passes to the early evening. Nothing has happened, just a tenseness about the temple...
[20:28] * Demedais continues to pray until something happens or someone comes to him. His hands are effectively tied here until Olburt and his two soldiers leave.
[20:28] <Kotono> OOC - Wis check, +1 circumstancial.
[20:32] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3
[20:32] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 and gets 21."12 [1d20=18]
[20:45] <Kotono> Demedais begins to feel peaceful again. At rest, at ease. His mind drifts - he feels at peace. He sees it distantly, heading north under the light of the moon, into the forests.
[20:52] * Demedais takes in the vision his mind is granting him, trying to divine what the scene before him is. Is it Engan or himself he sees?
[20:53] <Kotono> Engana nd Demedais walk under the moonlight and starlight, heading away from the temple. Into the mountains and forests, walking at a steady travelling pace.
[20:56] <Demedais> Breathing a mental sight of relief at this vision of release, Demedais attempts to make one final observation; he looks at the moon, trying to see if he can estimate what night it is.
[21:02] <Kotono> The moon is nearly full, as it was when you saw it last night.
[21:06] * Demedais meditates on this, torn on whether it means to leave tonight and break his oath or if it means to leave two nights from now, possibly delaying departure too long...
[21:17] <Kotono> Demedais is left with that question, weighting heavily on his mind. It seems to be split evenly...his oath or time?
[21:24] <Demedais> A small shake of the head, followed by a sigh; while tonight might be the best and safest time to leave, he cannot break his oath; in addition, if this is the proper time, then Engan leaving alone should be able to get far enough away to be safe. With a reluctant nod, Demedais looks up, attempting to find one of the priests, preferably either the one that told him of Engan's departure earlier or Denegrean.

[Corwin]

[15:51] <Kotono> After a bit of searching Denegrean is looking out a back window down the hall. It gives a superb view of the Enaldis mountains, the priest there looking as the nighttime sky takes over.
[15:52] * Demedais moves to stand by Denegrean, brow furrowed with some concern. "How do the General and his aides fare tonight? Any problems?"
[15:54] <Kotono> "General Olburt rests, his aides rest as well." With a long look out, "It is hard not to trust the priesthood of Helm." Yet his voice lowers at that, head bowed. "...I suppose Helm works in mysterious ways."
[15:56] <Demedais> "...I have had to play the role of actor, of pilgrim, and while such a role is in many regards true... it is still uncomfortable. I will be glad to put it aside once I return to Balmuria." After a few moments, "Is there any way a message could be passed to Engan?" A glance up toward the sky, searching for the moon.
[15:57] <Kotono> The sky is cloudy this night, "What has occured today will one day make a superb text...once we have leisure to dissect what lessons there are here to learn." Thoughtfully turning, "I could try - it's simple eough to send someone on an errand out."
[16:00] <Demedais> The sky is cloudy...? Perhaps this was... "I... hm. This is..." Demedais pauses, staring forward for a minute, before slowly saying, "Helm granted me a vision as I prayed."
[16:03] <Kotono> "He did?" Looking to Demedais, "Waht was it?
[16:03] <Kotono> "
[16:04] <Demedais> "The night was clear... the moon, much like it was last night. I and Engan traveled north, walking, a plain traveling stride. I had taken it to mean to leave tonight, but..." Another glance at the clouds. "I... somehow think this is a way to say 'not tonight'."
[16:05] <Kotono> "...A conrundrum?" Engan asks, frowning, "Did you not give you word that you would wait two days?"
[16:06] <Demedais> OOC: Engan?
[16:06] <Kotono> OOC: Denegrean, sorry.
[16:08] <Demedais> "I did. Which is why this vision concerned and distressed me. To leave tonight, while being true to Helm's order, would break my vow to the General. But... If tonight is cloudy, then... I cannot help but think that tonight is not the night Helm intended."
[16:11] <Kotono> "Perhaps Helm has given you a quandry and a test?" Denegrean speaks at last, "To openly break your word is not acceptable, but yet..."
[16:15] <Demedais> "...If I were to leave tonight, it would have to be with the approval of the General." Demedais says, slowly. "While it is possible, I suppose, that he would grant this..." A shake of his head. "I do not know. The first dilemma is whether or not the vision is to leave tonight. The second is, if it is, how to obtain Olburt's permission to leave."
[16:18] <Kotono> "It's a risk if you do," Denegrean speaks aloud, "Do you believe he would grant it?"
[16:21] <Demedais> "It... is possible, but very difficult." Demedais nods in silent agreement. "What do you think of the difference between the cloudy night now and the unclouded night in Helm's vision, however? I cannot help but think the difference is relevant..."
[16:23] <Kotono> "...I don't know," Denegrean answers at last, "Even if I did know, I must admit that it may be meaningless if I told you. If Helm has sent you this to you and you alone, then it is not my place to provide an answer."
[16:26] <Demedais> "Mmm..." Demedais mused, looking out. "...I cannot risk it. To me, this is far too vital a split between vision and reality for me to ignore. If the sky clears... I'll see. My apologies for disturbing you, High Priest."
[16:27] <Kotono> "Helm walk with you," Denegrean speaks as Demedais departs.
[16:29] <Demedais> "And you." Demedais nods as he returns back to the altar to meditate upon all this. If he's going to be traveling through all the Barbarian Lands, he may as well get some extra prayer now...
[16:36] <Kotono> OOC - Wis check.
[16:38] <Demedais> roll 1d20+2 Oh dear
[16:38] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+2 Oh dear and gets 3."12 [1d20=1]
[16:43] <Kotono> Time passes, Demedais l ost in prayer...OOC - Ball's in your court.
[16:45] <Demedais> "Shmf... nerves are shot from here to Malm- heh, suppose I should say Balmuria right now..." Demedais chuckled a bit, before returning to see if Denegrean was still at his window or if he'd gone to sleep like most sane people.
[16:48] <Kotono> Denegrean seem sto be asleep, you don't see him at the window.
[16:52] * Demedais goes to the window and looks out it, breathing the air and observing outside for about thirty minutes before going to sleep, using the time to calm his nerves.
[16:57] <Kotono> The sky is cloudy, rain si falling. It's a beautiful wet night outside, the mountains hidden by soft curtains of moisture.
[16:58] * Demedais chuckles a bit in relief after a while, and after hoping Engan's staying dry, goes to sleep till the morning; a luxury he hasn't beeen taking for a while.
[17:01] <Kotono> The night passes well enough. Demedais awakens, the temple quiet...OOC - Again, your momentum here.
[17:02] <Demedais> OOC: General Olburt mentioned leaving today, correct?
[17:06] <Kotono> OOC: Yes.
[17:07] <Demedais> OOC: Then just do weapons practice/warmup (nothing Engan showed me) until I either get interrupted or hear he is departing.
[17:18] <Kotono> High noon brings a distraction. Demedais notes that Olburt heads out of the front doors of the temple, his aides with him. They make a brisk walk past Demedais, a heavy look at him as they go.
[17:19] * Demedais pauses his swordwork and idly goes to see where they're heading.
[17:21] <Kotono> They look to be heading to the gate out. Olburt looks at you as he goes, but keeps walking.
[17:22] <Demedais> "General Olburt." Demedais says loud enough to carry to him, his face a bit creased.
[17:25] <Kotono> Stopping, the general turns to Demedais. "Yes?" he asks, neutral but stern.
[17:26] <Demedais> "I would like to apologize for my attitude yesterday. I have been quite tense all this trip, barely knowing the land I've been teleported to and only knowing to come here... I have been far too rude, and far too short to you. My sincerest apologies, and if you depart now, may Helm watch over you." Demedais says, suddenly hanging his head a bit.
[17:35] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[17:38] <Kotono> Olburt looks on, before a sharp nod. "You'd best be careful, young man. Other commanders or generals may not have been merciful at all." After a moment, "You're a damned fool but a lucky one, Helm or no. By odds you should be heading to Valandia, perhaps in chains. I'd make sure you don't get found again."
[17:40] <Demedais> "I will strive not to be." After a second, "I realize the risk I ran, but... I would do it again, if Helm asked. My life or more on the line." A shake of his head, then, "Thank you again, Olburt, and farewell."
[17:46] <Kotono> The general leaves, Demedais one again alone under the hot sun. But as he does, "Take care of yourself, boy," he speaks, but not unkindly.
[17:46] <Demedais> "And yourself, General." Demedais replies with a slight smile.
[17:50] <Kotono> With that he is gone, Demedais now truely alone. OOC - Court, ball, rabbit. Go.
[17:51] * Demedais watches them travel down the path for a bit before heading back in to find someone to ask where Engan is.
[17:53] <Kotono> Denegrean is found inside, and has the information. "He's waiting three miles away, behind twin boulders and a tree."
[17:56] <Demedais> "Very well. Hopefully he's not too drenched from the rain." Demedais nods. "Should I, or, well, someone go get him? The General and his aides seem to be departing at a good clip."
[17:58] <Kotono> "It's up to you," Denegrean says, "When will you leave?"
[18:00] <Demedais> "Either tonight or tomorrow night. My wording was specifically vague for that." Demedais replies with a slight grin. "I'll wait to see if the sky will be cloudy tonight before departing. I want the vision and the actuality to match as well as possible..."
[18:02] * Alveria is now known as Carthrat-Sleep
[18:03] <Kotono> "Very well then," Denegrean relents, "Then shall you wait until the evening?"
[18:07] <Demedais> "For now, yes. I'll wait until a few hours before dusk, see what the sky looks like." Demedais nods. "We'll both be gone soon. I cannot thank you all enough."
[18:10] <Kotono> "Just walk with Helm," Denegrean clasps your shoulders. "To be a part of this and get so much to think about it reward enough."
[18:11] <Demedais> "Heh. I understand, but the paladin in me objects to possibly endangering friends to danger without warning." Demedais replies, a smile on his face. "I am glad it went that well, however."
[18:15] <Kotono> "Just don't fail," Denegrean allows, "Go rest now, for I can imagine your journey will be hard from here on out."
[18:16] * Demedais nods, slowly. "Thank you. I think I will." With that, he bows to Denegrean and takes his leave for now, resting in his room until the sun approaches setting.
[18:17] <Kotono> Looking out the window in the evening, Demedais sees that the sky is clear and starry this night. Like diamonds on a black velvet sky, sparking in the summer warmth.
[18:19] * Demedais nods slowly, and heads out to tell Denegrean of his departure.
[18:20] <Kotono> You find Denegrean at the altar. "Is it time?" he asks simply, still helmeted after all thi stime.
[18:21] <Demedais> "Yes." Demedais nods. "The night is pretty much what the vision told me, and it is the end of the second day in the oath. I believe this to be the correct time, so I take leave of your hospitality with my gratitude, High Priest."
[18:27] <Kotono> "Be well, Demedais," he speaks simply, voice strong. "Do well."
[18:30] <Demedais> "I will. Thank you, High Priest." Demedais nods simply, before reciting a short prayer at the altar and going to travel with Engan north.
[18:41] <Kotono> Once outside, you soon come to the twin boulders. AS you approach, Engan boldly steps out. He wears soft leather armor, supple and light, and a green travelling cloak. "Demedais!" he calls with a smile.
[18:42] <Demedais> "Hope you didn't get too wet last night." Demedais calls back. "Also, new armor; a good thing to have, most likely." A slight chuckle. "Shall we be off, then?"
[18:43] <Kotono> "It wasn't so bad," With a note of amusement i his voice, "Yes, the temple gave these to me when I asked. Generous of them." Dusting off his cloak, "Lead on, Demedais."
[18:45] * Demedais nods and looks towards the north, looking for the forests that he saw himself walking into in the vision. "We'll need to be careful, but all in all, we should be in the clear now." He gestures toward them and begins walking, eager to depart.
[18:46] <Kotono> As they walk, "There's one thing I want to ask you, though," Engan stops, slowing. "With all I told you, and the fact that you k now how big Malmuth is...are you going to standand fight if the worst happens and there is a war?"
[18:50] <Demedais> "...If Helm gives me no other directions... yes, I will. As much as I dislike the idea, I see no other palatable option." Demedais replies, turning to Engan. "Of course, if Helm tells me to do something different, then... I will follow my orders from him, first and foremost. Why do you ask?"
[18:52] <Kotono> "I doubt Olburt would spare you in a war," he begins, thoughtful. "Or that Claris Brightsun would hesitate to cast a spell that consumed you in a pillar of flame. Or that King Ferdi would even think twice about issuing orders to execute the dangerous prisoner." Starting to walk again, "Even with the advantages of defense, the Baronies are smaller. If your champions can't win..." He trails off, before just looking up at the sky. "I may be
[18:53] <Kotono>  He trails off, before just looking up at the sky. "I may be worth a 400 men, but when they have 50,000, that's barely a dent."
[18:57] <Demedais> "And what else is there to do? Stand and watch, abandon our duty? I do not doubt that Malmuth is a great danger, but... friend, I believe that there are worse, if no less imminent, threats to both countries. I've seen too much with the Crimson Guard to believe otherwise." Demedais shakes his head. "I know I face death at every turn. But does not every warrior? Better to die doing what I believe to be my duty, than to...."
[18:59] <Demedais> "Better to die doing what I believe to be my duty, than to..." Demedais shook his head, sadly.
[19:00] <Kotono> "Die in bed, lamenting wha-Yes, that too." Engan begins to grin, a grim, knowing thing. "Better yet is to avoid dying altogether..."
[19:01] <Demedais> "If it results in running away from the problem? Not for me, I'm afraid." A mocking smile. "Duty above all else... no matter how much of a damned fool I am, as Olburt put it."
[19:03] <Kotono> "I hope you're right and that was Helm, and that..." Thoughtfully glancing up, "That even if you're wrong, you'll get the last laugh beyond. But..." Squaring his shoulders, "Let's get going."
[19:05] <Demedais> "Last laugh beyond? I don't care about laughing." Demedais says, a bit confused. "But yes, let's keep moving."
[19:06] <Kotono> Sighing at that, "I meant that you'd get proven right after you die," Engan spells it out, "You know, when you get everything you believed in justified if you're correct?"
[19:06] <Demedais> "Oh." Demedais says. "In the end, though, doesn't the best justification come from yourself?"
[20:28] * Sierra_Devourer (~Melanchth@pool-71-191-16-113.washdc.east.verizon.net) has joined #evildunes
[21:30] <Kotono> "Yes, but..." Engan begins, half sighing and half laughing. "Don't you want to see the day when you meet Helm and you ...oh nevermind."
[21:33] * Demedais eyes Engan wryly as they walk. "I've met Helm, although it's not the sort of 'meeting' you're thinking of. "
[21:36] <Kotono> "Well then..." Engan jus tlaughs, "Let's continue on. Before we start losing the night to discussing this."
[21:39] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais grins, heading north.
[21:41] <Kotono> WIth travel, Demedais and Engan begin to head through the rough terrain, into the Barbarian Lands! OOC - Sec.
[21:41] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 88."12 [1d100=88]
[21:41] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 81."12 [1d100=81]
[21:41] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 75."12 [1d100=75]
[21:43] <Kotono> Soon trees become thicker, even over the rocky ground. One morning, after resting and eating leftover stew, the two begin to walk down a small, tree choked valley. The slope is rather rugged, cresting at the very bottom point. It's dangerous going, but not bad as long as the pace is slow.  But as you approach the bottom...OOC - Spot checks.
[21:45] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[21:45] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 20."12 [1d20=14]
[21:50] <Demedais> "Hold on. We've got some... some sort of trap up ahead, I think." Demedais motions to Engan to stop, and looks around to see if there's an easy way around the trap.
[21:54] <Kotono> Engan scowls, drawing his sword, "Soldiers this far north?"
[21:57] <Demedais> "I... doubt it." Demedais replies. "Just kinda looks like a boobytrap. There's... oh let's just go examine it." With that, Demedais approaches cautiously, looking at the trap. "Perhaps it's just to stop people from falling in...? I dunno. Regardless, we're entering unfriendly territory."
[22:00] <Kotono> Engan follows easily as Demedais approaches. AS he does he sees it's rope netting, designed to fall into the ground s lightly and go into a little ball, effectively catching anyone that steps on it. Under the net is a small dug out indent.
[22:00] * Sierra_Devourer is now known as Sierra_OHGODTHELIGHTTHELIGHT
[22:01] <Demedais> "Okay, scratch it just catching people, it's a trap. Let's go... perhaps it's a trap for hunters to use for food. Either way, disturbing it's probably bad." Demedais slowly goes around the trap, waiting at the other side for Engan.
[22:02] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[22:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 12."12 [1d100=12]
[22:02] <Kotono> OOC - Gah, wrong die.
[22:02] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[22:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20 and gets 13."12 [1d20=13]
[22:07] <Kotono> Nothing of incident happens when you go around. The trap says perfectly in place. "It isn't quite like an animal trap, but then again, if something fell down..." Engan merely considers, glancing up the steep way.
[22:08] * Demedais nods. "I don't know, but it's best to assume something could be hunting for us. Stay alert."
[22:15] <Kotono> "Lovely thought, isn't it?" Engan makes a face, scowling. "Yeah, keep a look out."
[22:18] * Demedais nods silently and keeps moving.

[Corwin]

[17:56] <Kotono> The rest of the day passes without incident. On making camp for the night, around a fire and roasted deer, "Who's going to keep watch first?" Engan asks, finishing his meal.
[17:57] <Demedais> "I can do so." Demedais replied. "Got a lot of rest at the temple, so I'll be good for a while."
[17:59] <Kotono> Settling in, Engan goes to lie down. "Wake me when you're ready." He goes to rest, looking up at the tree hidden sky.
[17:59] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais nods as he pokes at the fire a bit more before looking around.
[18:01] <Kotono> It's a fairly normal forest clearing. About twenty feet wide, lit by your fireplace. The ground is rocky and often uneven, a mix of stubborn trees and uncaring rock.  There's a small spring about 800 feet away, where you got fresh water for the evening.
[18:02] <Demedais> "Mmm." Demedais nods slightly, relaxing as he begins the watch.
[18:04] <Kotono> The night fades on. The moon rises into the sky unseen from here, the minutes stretching on. Engan falls into a deep sleep, the camp peacefully silent as the woods around you. So far.
[18:06] * Kotono is now known as Kokokoko
[18:06] * UnacceptableMustard is now known as Seira
[18:07] * Demedais unhooks his sword from his back and does a few practice swings with it still wrapped, attempting to keep the sound down so Engan isn't awakened as he stretches.
[18:08] <Kokokoko> OOC - Make a listen check, then.
[18:09] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3
[18:09] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 and gets 11."12 [1d20=8]
[18:10] <Kokokoko> Demedais hears a distinct CRACK in the woods to th enorth, a fair distance away. Like a log or something broke, carrying in the night over the soft chirping of bugs.
[18:11] * Demedais stops swinging and looks intently to the north, left hand still holding his blade parallel to the ground.
[18:11] <Kokokoko> Past about fourty feet the woods are a mess of trees, growth and leaves. You can't really see anything in that distance. OOC - Spot check, though.
[18:12] * Carthrat is now known as Ratsleep
[18:12] <Demedais> rol 1d20+6
[18:12] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[18:12] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 8."12 [1d20=2]
[18:14] <Kokokoko> Demedais doesn't see anything at all, only the sound of the mysterious log(?) fading nito the quiet night.
[18:15] * Demedais relaxes a bit, but still doesn't start swinging. Probably just trees or something, cracking...
[18:16] <Kokokoko> The rest of the night passes without incident. In the morning, over leftovers and water, "What direction are we heading the next few days?" Engan inquires this, rubbing sleepiness out of his eyes.
[18:18] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[18:19] * Demedais considers this. "I would say northwest today, and then west the rest of the way. That should be enough to get us out of any roaming patrol range and give us maximum 'get out of here' time. Any objections?"
[18:21] <Kokokoko> "Not particularly," Engan agrees,getting his sword ready. "I'm more worried about stumbling into any other traps, innocent or not."
[18:23] <Demedais> "I wouldn't be terribly surprised to learn that something local's following us." Demedais nods slightly, gesturing to the northwest. "Shall we?"
[18:23] <Kokokoko> "Yeah," Engan proceeds on with Demedais!
[18:24] <Kokokoko> At about noon, you come to a bit of an oddity. While you travel northwest, you happen to come across a well travelled and kept footpath running to the north and east. Odd here, about four feet wide. It runs away from the direction you're going.
[18:28] <Demedais> "Some sort of town in that direction, perhaps?" Demedais muses.
[18:29] <Kokokoko> "Probably not an elven town..." Engan considers, "Could be goblins?"
[18:31] <Demedais> "Probably, Let's avoid it anyway." Demedais says, gesturing on. "Our main priority's to get us both out of here."
[18:32] <Kokokoko> Engan merely nods, starting to walk away. "Sound advice. No need to go picking fights when we're on the run."
[18:32] <Demedais> "Indeed. Although it could be goblins following us; that'd make some sense." Demedais nods as he, too, moves on.
[18:34] <Kokokoko> "Goblins aren't a concern unless they attack en masse, so good," Engan notes as he travels on. OOC - Move ahead?
[18:35] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah.
[18:35] <Kokokoko> About two hours later you come to a river. It's about fourty feet across easily, and deep enough to have a fast current. Maybe 12 feet deep or more? But luck is with you - a crude rope and stick bridge has been erected over the water, allowing easy passage.
[18:37] * Demedais eyes the bridge with some distaste, but then eyes the water and shakes his head. "I guess we have no good choice here..."
[18:37] <Kokokoko> "Not a one. Unless you can swim," Engan glances back at Demedais curiously. "Can you?"
[18:39] <Demedais> "No. Tried once when I was young, sank like a brick, have no desire to repeat that experience." Demedais replies blithely.
[18:39] * CC (~Corwin@bzq-88-154-98-126.red.bezeqint.net) has joined #evildunes
[18:40] * Seira (~Corwin@bzq-88-154-153-97.red.bezeqint.net) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by CC))
[18:40] * CC is now known as Seira
[18:40] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Seira
[18:41] <Kokokoko> "Damn." Engan looks on, "Still, the bridge looks sturdy enough, I think."
[18:42] <Demedais> "Yeah. You going to cross on the bridge, or do you want to swim?" Demedais inquires.
[18:43] <Kokokoko> "Does it matter?" Engan shrugs, "I was going to let you go first. If something does happen, I can swim. You can't. I can drag you to score. You can drown." As he says that, Engan begins to remove his leather armor and cloak.
[18:44] * Demedais nods slightly. "Very well." With that, he begins to cross the bridge, moving cautiously...
[18:45] <Kokokoko> Demedais crosses the bridge! 5 feet and then ten, the bridge seeming quite solid for now. It's supporting your weight well enough.
[18:46] * Demedais continues, a bit quicker now but not much.
[18:50] <Kokokoko> Engan stays at the shore, watching intently. At fifteen feet out, Demedais feels the bridge beneath him shake and ...woosh! IN a moment the entire segment seamlessly collapses into the water, dunking him down!
[18:52] <Demedais> "Aug-" Demedais flails for a second, before quickly attempting to float or at least stay above water!
[18:53] <Kokokoko> OOC - Swim check.
[18:54] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+4 and gets 16."12 [1d20=12]
[18:54] <Kokokoko> The rough river water moves Demedais somewhat downstream, but he is able to flail and keep his head above thes urface! Gasping in air, you hear a splash as Engan dives into the water!
[18:54] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+9
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+9 and gets 21."12 [1d20=12]
[18:55] <Kokokoko> Engan begins to swim towards Demedais, when...
[18:55] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+10'
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+10' and gets Error: Numeric values only."12 [1d20=18]
[18:55] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+10
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+10 and gets 16."12 [1d20=6]
[18:55] <Kokokoko> roll 1d8+7
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d8+7 and gets 9."12 [1d8=2]
[18:56] <Kokokoko> Engan's swimming is interrupted by a javelin flying out from the opposite bank, tossed by someone unseen! IT grazes his arm, dealing damage to him! You hear Engan shout and swear!
[18:57] * Demedais continues to flail, trying to move toward the opposite bank!
[18:58] <Kokokoko> OOC - Swim check again.
[18:59] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4
[18:59] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+4 and gets 17."12 [1d20=13]
[19:00] <Kokokoko> OOC - Towards the ank you were going across to, to be clear?
[19:00] <Demedais> OOC: Aye.
[19:07] <Kokokoko> Demedais manages to flail towards the far shore! He's about ten feet away from it when he finishes, untrained and staying up only by pure effort! Meanwhile Engan swims and calls, "Enemy!"
[19:07] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+9
[19:07] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+9 and gets 24."12 [1d20=15]
[19:07] <Kokokoko> Engan makes a faster pace in water, swimming towards the other shore and Demedais quite speedily! Meanwhile you hear rustling in the far side bushes, as...OOC - Spot check, Deme.
[19:10] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[19:10] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 9."12 [1d20=3]
[19:12] <Kokokoko> Demedais isn't fast enough on the eyedraw to get a good look, but something from the far bushes throws a javelin - this time at Demedais!
[19:12] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+10
[19:12] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+10 and gets 20."12 [1d20=10]
[19:12] <Kokokoko> OOC - AC?
[19:12] <Demedais> OOC: 11. >_>;
[19:12] <Kokokoko> roll 1d8+7
[19:12] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d8+7 and gets 8."12 [1d8=1]
[19:17] <Kokokoko> The water at elast has the good graces to remove the javelin from Demedais' shoulder before it does too much damage! Nonetheless, with a bleeding wound and all, Demedais is closer to shore now! OOC - Go ahead and act, Deme.
[19:18] * Demedais flinches, before attempting to get just a little bit farther, and onto the shore!
[19:18] <Kokokoko> OOC - One mo' swim check.
[19:19] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4
[19:19] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+4 and gets 8."12 [1d20=4]
[19:20] <Kokokoko> Mere feet from shore, a particularly strong current drags Demedais under the surface of the water! Almost within reaching range of the rocky bank, water splashing over his head as he goes down! Meanwhile, as Demedais sinks, he hears splashing above, and then...
[19:20] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+10
[19:20] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+10 and gets 16."12 [1d20=6]
[19:20] <Kokokoko> roll 1d8+7
[19:20] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d8+7 and gets 12."12 [1d8=5]
[19:20] <Kokokoko> Another cry, before Engan takes a javelin and begins to dive down! OOC - Deme, go.
[19:21] * Demedais curses mentally as he tries to scrabble back upward!
[19:21] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4 swim check?
[19:21] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+4 swim check? and gets 11."12 [1d20=7]
[19:23] <Kokokoko> But the swift current is too strong! Demedais can't swim upward in any appreciable fashion! But as he does, he sees Engan descending towards him. He extends a hand out towards Demedais!
[19:24] * Demedais grabs it quickly, nodding to him as he holds his breath!
[19:26] <Kokokoko> With that, Engan attemps to pull them to the surface!
[19:26] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+9
[19:26] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+9 and gets 11."12 [1d20=2]
[19:27] <Kokokoko> OOC - You can make a swim attempt as well since Engan just Hatbott'd it up.
[19:27] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4 swim swim swim
[19:27] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+4 swim swim swim and gets 22."12 [1d20=18]
[19:28] <Kokokoko> While Engan is no good, Demedais is able to make a powerful kick of his legs! He gasps out as his head broaches the surface, sweet air filling his lungs! He's close to shore, even if he's been carried about sixty feet from the bridge by the current. Just a little more effort and...
[19:35] * Demedais attempts to surge out of the water, bringing Engan along for the ride!
[19:38] <Kokokoko> OOC - Swim check +5 mod since you're close enough to reach out and grab stuff.
[19:38] <Demedais> roll 1d20+9 swim swim swim!
[19:38] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+9 swim swim swim! and gets 25."12 [1d20=16]
[19:39] <Kokokoko> With a full on effort Demedais grabs a stray large rock at the edge of the shore, using it to drag himself onto the shore, belly first! Engan follows, the two now out of the drink. Engan takes a breath, and darkly, "If they're goblins, they're damnable smart ones."
[19:44] * Demedais nods, irritably. "Maybe gnolls or hobgoblins or something like that?"
[19:46] <Kokokoko> Getting up and drawing his sword, "No more javelins," he winces a moment, "How bad did that one get you?"
[19:47] <Demedais> "A nick, pretty much." Demedais says, rubbing his shoulder a bit. "And the one at you?" A glance along the bushes.
[19:51] <Kokokoko> "Two, neither too serious," Engan brushes it off, wounds on his shoulders. The bushes here are fairly serene - but you did get moved downstream sixty feet by the current, sooo.
[19:55] <Demedais> "Very well. Should we just pretend we weren't attacked, or harrass those things back?" Demedais says, eyeing the bushes uphill.
[20:03] <Kokokoko> "Mph." Engan readies his sword, "Let's see if we get the chance?"
[20:07] <Demedais> "Alright." Demedais nods, continuing on slowly.
[20:07] <Kokokoko> OOc - How are you going to be travelling ahead?
[20:08] <Demedais> Heading into the forest, then slowly continuing northwest, trying to spot anything following us.
[20:21] <Kokokoko> OOC - Make spot checking, then, for a barometer of how you do on that.
[20:21] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 16."12 [1d20=10]
[20:32] <Kokokoko> The rest of the day passes without trouble. You reach nightfall without anything unfortold happening, only peaceable night coming. Over dinner, Engan speaks. "Think they'll try anything else again?"
[20:33] <Demedais> "I'm confident of it, actually." Demedais says, leaning against a tree. "There's sure to be another attempt, I feel."
[20:36] <Kokokoko> "Then keep a good watch. Wake me if anything happens?" Engan says tiredly, before lying down, his sword at his side.
[20:37] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais nods, keeping an eyes out into the dark.
[20:47] <Kokokoko> OOC - Listen check.
[20:47] * Sierra_Mikain (~Melanchth@pool-71-191-16-113.washdc.east.verizon.net) Quit (-=SysReset 2.53=-)
[20:48] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3
[20:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 and gets 18."12 [1d20=15]
[20:49] <Kokokoko> Demedais hears a soft crack coming from the southeast, like a twig breaking, just outside of the small camp.
[20:51] * Demedais almost turns toward the sound, but instead simply steps back a bit, pretending like he's looking east-northeast while sneaking glances toward where he heard the sound from.
[20:52] <Kokokoko> OOc - Spot check. +2 bonus.
[20:52] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8
[20:52] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 and gets 23."12 [1d20=15]
[20:56] * Demedais involuntarily twitches, but does not otherwise outwardly attack, simply watching the beast. Whatever it is...
[20:57] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+13
[20:57] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+13 and gets 24."12 [1d20=11]
[20:57] <Kokokoko> Whatever the hell it is creeps a little closer. Just a few inches. It's peering ahead, studying the two of you...and your equipment. Your weapons in particular, and the leather armor Engan wears.
[20:58] * Demedais watches back, examining the axe and the chain shirt closely.
[21:01] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+5
[21:01] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+5 and gets 21."12 [1d20=16]
[21:01] <Kokokoko> It's one helluva chain shirt. It's crude, like a few shirts broken and smelted together to fit a large body. The axe is likesized, big enough to chop a tree in half pretty cleanly. The axe looks to be of impressive quality. After amoment his eyes settle on the bastard sword of Engan adn then Demedais' sword, respectively, peering.
[21:03] * Demedais glances out toward the east, watching it out of the corner of his eye to see what the thing does. Perhaps an ogre? Not something he's seen before, though.
[21:10] <Kokokoko> It's just studying for now. It leans back a bit, it's ugly face...thoughtful? It's gaze seems to be drifting entirely to Demedais now.
[21:11] * Demedais lets his eyes droop purposefully, leaning against a nearby tree while still doing the "face east/look southeast" thing.
[21:16] <Kokokoko> The creature slinks forward a little more, to the very edge of the trees. Any closer and he'd come out.
[21:17] * Demedais looks straight at the thing and raises an eyebrow, left hand ready to draw his sword and a wicked smile on his face.
[21:17] <Kokokoko> OOC - Intimadation check, Mr. Scary Paladin!
[21:18] <Demedais> roll 1d20+9 I am a dinosaur (rawr!)
[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+9 I am a dinosaur (rawr!) and gets 20."12 [1d20=11]
[21:20] <Kokokoko> roll 1d20+14
[21:20] * Hatbot --> "Kokokoko rolls 1d20+14 and gets 16."12 [1d20=2]
[21:21] <Kokokoko> The creature eyes Demedais with an overwhelming look, but stays right where it is a moment. It looks to the sword of Demedais, once and then twice...
[21:22] * Demedais slowly draws it, spinning it in a few overhead circles before lowering it down, just a bit, ready to lash out if it moves...
[21:23] <Kokokoko> "Grr..." It growls in a low voice, "You're travelling through my territory, humans," it challenge in very rough, ragged Common. "I'll get your shinies yet!" With that it takes a step back and then another.
[21:24] <Demedais> "We're attempting to leave your territory." Demedais replies in a low voice. "So just relax."
[21:25] <Kokokoko> With that, the creature falls back out of sight, silently fading back and away.
[21:26] * Demedais grumbles and glances down at Engan, seeing if he's awake.
[21:27] <Kokokoko> Engan looks to be peacefully asleep.
[21:29] <Demedais> With a slight grin, Demedais continues his watch, planning to notify Engan of the thing as soon as it's his turn to keep watch.
[21:32] <Kokokoko> Engan stirs a little after Midnight, looking on at Demedais. "...what?" He asks as he wipes his eyes clean of sleep.
[21:34] <Demedais> "We had a visitor that said we were in his territory. He ran off. Warty bugger, ten feet tall, big ax and armor." Demedais says succinctly. "I have a plan for if he appears again, which is why I didn't wake you. Had he charged, he'd be regretting it."
[21:36] <Kokokoko> "That sounds like a half orc or a troll or something even more exotic," A grutn follows as Engan gets up, drinking from his canteen. "What was the plan, anyway?"
[21:38] <Demedais> "I've... got a bit of magic that a friendly water elemental left behind -  a long story there. Essentially, it's a wall of boiling water." Demedais grins slightly. "Doesn't effect the side I'm on, so only that thing would be feeling the heat. ...although, if it were a troll... ugh."
[21:40] <Kokokoko> "Interesting story. What the hell happened?" Asking as he doublechecks his sword ands tands properly, "If it's a troll heat's even more useful, but it'll be almost impossible to dipose of properly."
[21:43] <Demedais> "We were attempting to clear out a ruin near Balmuria, and one thing we needed to do was to help this water elemental get out of a fountain it had been cursed into." Demedais says, elaborating a bit. "The full story should probably wait until Balmuria, but... yeah. Once we're safe for sure, I'll feel more comfortable telling you. Although you probably heard Berlioz mention some of it..."
[21:47] * Demedais chuckles to himself. "I'm sorry, this sounds paranoid, I'm sure... It's just that I don't know how to explain it all fully, myself; but another Crimson Guard member's got a really good grasp on it. She'd explain it better."
[21:54] <Kokokoko> After listening to that tale, "I didn't hear much of what Berlioz said," he begins, "I was too far on the way out then. For what it's worth, I got the impression he didn't spill -everything-."
[21:58] <Demedais> "Figures. It'd almost be nice in a few regards, although they may not believe all of what he has to say." Demedais grumbles. "Either way... you mind keeping watch? He's a sneaky bastard; I barely heard and spotted him, he came from the southeast. I need a nap."
[21:59] <Kokokoko> "Sure, go ahead." Engan turns to watch, rubbing his eyes. "I'd heard discussions that they didn't get all they wanted for him, and that he got moved far to the south on request, well away from the Baronies. Take it for what you will."
[22:04] <Demedais> "Heh. Very well, then." Demedais leans against a tree to rest for a few hours.

[Corwin]

[18:09] <Kotono> "Big ol' troll that thinks he owns things. Smarter 'n a lot of us. Hits like a truck, uses tools and can stalk prey."
[18:11] <Demedais> "Yeah, okay, that was the one that was following, which means we probably shouldn't stay too much longer." Demedais says to both Engan and Jonathan. "He has a big ol' axe and chain mail, right?"
[18:15] <Kotono> "He knows how to use it. He uses it more like a human warrior, down to being very well trained in it," Jonathan nods, "He's a bastard."
[18:16] <Demedais> "Mmmm. And you've managed to stay here how?" Demedais inquires, a bit curious now.
[18:18] <Kotono> "He knows when he's beat," Looking to the fireplace, "He's a sneaky sonuvabitch. When things turn against him he usually makes it another day. For all of his skill, he likes to outwit and out maneuver more. Which means...he has problems if you threaten him with fire. He  knows exactly what that'll do to him."
[18:22] * Demedais grins a bit. "Then he'll have problems with me. I've got an emergency way to produce a large amount of heat, if needed. Still, this isn't really optimal by any means..." He shivers a bit, looking at the fire. "Better then random Malmuthian patrols complaining about random things, but..."
[18:27] <Kotono> "But he's intelligent, persistant and almost impossible to kill," Engan looks at the fire as he warms his hands, "Yet another good reason that most sane people don't go into these lands."
[18:29] <Demedais> "If you wanted sanity from me, Engan, you'd have been better off traveling with someone else." Demedais chuckled.
[18:32] <Kotono> "Pfah," Engan almost laughs, "It's more reason for us to get going soon, though. If he's after us we really don't want to draw attention onto you.
[18:32] <Kotono> "
[18:34] <Demedais> "Indeed. Five more minutes and then I'll be ready, if that is permissible?"
[18:36] <Kotono> "Yeah," Jonathan grunts once more, "Do whatever you like."
[18:38] <Demedais> "Thank you." Demedais turns his face to the fire again. "Lighting a fire every night is probably one of our preliminary defenses against the troll, I think..."
[18:39] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[18:39] <Kotono> "The rain won't help - a lo of the wood will be wet tonight, even if it stops now." Engan muses, "We can probably find some dry wood that's been spared, but it'll be effort and time consuming."
[18:43] <Demedais> "We can look for some as we continue." Demedais replies, before shaking his head. "Of course, if it's raining at nightfall, that doesn't help much. I'm tempted to just suggest we travel through the night, and rest once it stops raining or at next dawn."."
[18:47] <Kotono> "It's a thought," Engan ponders after some time, "Let's see how the terrain is as we go on, and if we have another surprise waiting for us?"
[18:48] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais says, standing. "Jonathan, I cannot thank you enough. Being dry even for a little bit has been wonderful, frankly."
[18:51] <Kotono> A grunt follows, "Don't see many of you damnedfools here. Just keep everything down south away from here."
[18:52] <Demedais> "We'll likely be the last people you see for a while, I'd guess. Sorry to disturb you." Demedais nods as he heads to the door. "Hopefully the blasted troll doesn't try anything against you."
[18:54] <Kotono> "I can handle him." Jonathan gets up as well, along with Engan. He pauses a moment, going to a small, crude wooden cubbard in the back. He comes out with a fur wrapped package. "Take it. It's meat." Pushing it towards Demedais' chest. "It'll feed you tonight, it's harder hunting in the rain."
[18:55] * Demedais hesitates, before accepting it and nodding. "I wish I had something to offer you in return..."
[18:57] <Kotono> "Eh, got 'nough. Been a good hunting season." Looking on as the two go to the door and back into the rain, "Just end up becoming bait anyway."
[18:58] * El-Cideon (~Melanchth@pool-71-191-16-113.washdc.east.verizon.net) has joined #evildunes
[18:58] <Demedais> "Thank you. Take care." With that, Demedais departs, gesturing at Engan to follow into the rain.
[19:02] <Kotono> Out into the rain you go! Another hour and a half passes, the rainy sky growing dim. The clouds are thick, and a few distant peals of thunder compliment the rainstorm now.  Amid this horrid weather...OOC - Spot check, Deme.
[19:03] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[19:03] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 12."12 [1d20=6]
[19:08] <Kotono> You soon come to a shallow but long valley past a small hill. It's quite nice, with a riverbed dissecting it. It looks dry, but it's filling up from the rainwater. Stones are littered about this, many more like boulders. It's about three hundred feet long total, give or take a few. Between the trees, boulders and rain, it's hard to see much beyond a few feet in front of you rface.
[19:09] * Demedais grumbles a bit. "Best to cross the river before it gets too much higher, you think?"
[19:12] <Kotono> The river is only two feet deep and about five widenow. Barely any trouble to wade unless you're a midget. Engan nods, "May as well. if it keeps raining and throwing down lighting, though..."
[19:14] <Demedais> "Yeah." Demedais nods as he begins to move down, the bundle underneath his right arm as he moves to cross the river.
[19:29] <Kotono> You reach the river. Just past it are several boulders, but the stream itself is without incident. Past the boulders are a bit of grass and rock, the valley continuing on. Engan follows, glancing around. "Nasty weathe ron top of it...maybe it kept him in his den?"
[19:32] <Demedais> "Perhaps. At the very least, it'd make tracking us much more difficult." Demedais says, crossing the small river quickly before looking to the now-opposite side of the valley's rim, scanning for the thing.
[19:36] <Kotono> OOC - Spot check again.
[19:37] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 25."12 [1d20=19]
[19:40] * Demedais peers upward toward the rocks. "Well, fun. Engan, we have company. Trollish company."
[19:43] <Kotono> Engan looks up, smoothly drawing his sword as he looks up. "Dammit!"
[19:45] * Demedais glances up toward the rocks. "I'd try producing my magic now, but the positioning's not great..."
[19:47] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
[19:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 22."12 [1d20=14]
[19:48] <Kotono> As Engan looks on cautiously, "Does it know.." he asks, frowning. But as you talk, the boulder Demedais saw the troll behind is lifted up, starting to be raised!
[19:55] <Demedais> "...he's going to throw that?" Demedais grunted. "Fine, then. Trump card the first." Demedais gestures, calling forth a ring of boiling water around himself and Engan with the far edge created right next to the troll!
[19:55] <Kotono> After a rather lengthy stare at the raising boulder, "...shit." Engan adds pugnantly, readying his weapon! OOC - Okay, we'll resolve that and go to initiative if need be.
[19:57] <Kotono> OOC - So you're basically making a defensive ring of boiling water around yourself, with the edges just next to the troll?
[19:57] <Demedais> OOC: Pretty much. Right up and in his face.
[19:58] <Kotono> OOC - Roll the 2d4 radiu sdamage.
[19:59] <Demedais> roll 2d4
[19:59] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d4 and gets 4."12 [2d4=3, 1]
[20:00] <Kotono> The heat springs up, getting a grunt from the troll! "Magic!" it swears, "Hot!" OOC - Initiative.
[20:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+1 trollish one
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+1 trollish one and gets 19."12 [1d20=18]
[20:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4 Engan
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 Engan and gets 18."12 [1d20=14]
[20:02] <Demedais> roll 1d20
[20:02] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20 and gets 10."12 [1d20=10]
[20:02] * Kotono changes topic to 'Supertroll>Engan>DemedaisMikoess'
[20:03] <Demedais> "That's right, troll. Hot magic. I got more where that came from, too. You sure you want these shinies?" Demedais drawled.
[20:04] <Kotono> Despite it, the troll throws the boulder through the water, aiming at where it knows the targets should be! OOC - I'm giving you 20% concealment thanks to wall+shitty conditions, seems only fair. Also, roll damage on the rock for passing through the wall.
[20:06] <Demedais> roll 2d6+8
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d6+8 and gets 19."12 [2d6=5, 6]
[20:07] <Kotono> The trip through the water leaves the rock cracked and smouldering, dinished but still flying!
[20:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[20:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 23."12 [1d20=13]
[20:07] <Kotono> roll 1d100 1-20=miss
[20:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 1-20=miss and gets 76."12 [1d100=76]
[20:08] <Kotono> OOC - AC?
[20:08] <Demedais> OOC: 11, as I have no armor/shield. ;_;
[20:08] <Kotono> roll 2d8+8/2
[20:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8+8/2 and gets 16."12 [2d8=6, 6]
[20:11] <Kotono> The boulder is clearly weakened by the wall, parts of it fallin gapart and muffling the impact! But nonetheless, the two heroes are hit -hard- by a giant boulder! OOC - 16 damage.
[20:11] <Kotono> Engan swears as he picks himself up fromthe rocky smack, "Fucking bastard," he snarls, sword on the ready but holding for now. OOC - Deme, you're up, and the radius damage resolves on your turn.
[20:12] * Demedais moves apart from Engan, near the right side of the wall, and crouches, attempting to obtain more concealment from the wall as he concentrates on the wall for a bit longer.
[20:12] <Demedais> roll 2d4 BURN, TROLL, BURN
[20:12] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d4 BURN, TROLL, BURN and gets 6."12 [2d4=4, 2]
[20:13] <Kotono> You hear the troll cry out now, as Demedais uses one of the upright boulders to hide! As he does, he can see the troll through the wall, turning and running quickly from the heat!
[20:16] <Demedais> "Mmmph. I was hoping he'd stick around longer." Demedais grunter, clambering onto the boulder to see where he's going, moving slowly so as to keep his concentration.
[20:17] <Kotono> He's fleeing towards the northwest at a very good clip. You won't be able to see him for long with the forest.
[20:19] <Demedais> "He's heading northwest; I vote we move southwest for the rest of the night, then continue east/northeast." Demedais says, finally letting his control over the wall drop. "It'll take a moment for this magic to subside. Sadly, it's the only form of fire damage I have..."
[20:19] <Demedais> OOC: *fire/heat
[20:31] <Kotono> "Alright," Engan agrees as the spell slowly fades. No sign of the troll, indeed seeming to have run off altogether...
[20:33] * Demedais grimaces. "Do you possess any heat enchantment on your sword? Attempting to wear him down with my walls will be long if not impossible." He gestures to Engan to follow as he walks up the hill in the direction perpindicular to the troll, not wanting to was time standing and talking.
[20:33] <Kotono> "No, it just speeds me up, primarily," Engan answers as the two continue along. "I've never imbued it with anything like fire."
[20:34] <Demedais> "Mmm." Demedais grunts. "Good thing I prepared the lesser restoration spells, I really don't want to have to stop tonight."
[20:41] <Kotono> "Then let's go," Engan hurries on, even in the nasty rain. OOC - Up to skipping ahead?
[20:41] * Alicia is now known as Ebiris
[20:42] <Demedais> OOC: Yes.
[20:43] <Kotono> A few hours pass, night coming. No sign of the troll, the time passing by. With magic most of the evening is also consumed in travel, again no sign of the troll...OOC - How long are you going to travel?
[20:43] <Demedais> OOC: However long Engan can go + 2 Lesser Restorations on him and one on myself, following the path I proposed above.
[20:44] <Kotono> OOC - I'll say until about dawn. You two will be good and tired by that point.
[20:45] <Demedais> OOC: Alright.
[20:45] <Kotono> Dawn comes, a small cave found. Still no sign of the troll, just rest. Engan falls against the wall, "...What a tiring night. How much farther do you think we'll have to travel?" he asks.
[20:46] <Demedais> "I dunno." Demedais says, resting against the other side. "Let's rest up here, then begin going west by northwest. Hopefully we and trollboy don't meet up again."
[20:48] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[20:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 2."12 [1d100=2]
[20:48] <Kotono> The night passes without incident! The next evening the two awaken and eat, ready to go...
[20:49] * Demedais attempts to estimate how close they are to Balmuria before they depart...
[20:52] <Demedais> "I'm guessing one to two weeks before we hit Balmuria. Less by Horse, but... I dunno. You fine with walking and talking?
[20:53] <Kotono> "I think speed's more important now," Engan speaks at last, after some thought. "If we can clear the troll's territory faster, all the better."
[20:54] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais nods, calling upon Horse. "Although if any patrols end up coming this way, I'm going to assume they can track us by divine horse summoning or something. Just... so you know."
[20:56] * Demedais mounts Horse, and rubs the mane a bit before waving Engan on.
[20:57] <Kotono> "..." Engan gives Demedais a long look, "Again, fi they have someone that can do that, we're in more trouble than I can imagine." But soon the two are on horse, racing along! OOC - More.
[20:57] <Kotono> The day passes without any incident. You pass by a few goblins, but it's easy to not even slow down. No sign of the troll at all...
[20:59] <Demedais> "Well, so far so good." Demedais mutters, monitoring Horse's stamina and using one of the Lesser Restorations whenever he tires.
[21:00] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 35."12 [1d100=35]
[21:00] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 64."12 [1d100=64]
[21:00] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 16."12 [1d100=16]
[21:00] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 85."12 [1d100=85]