Habololy Forum

General Category => The 4th Era Of Habololy => Topic started by: Asinjin on January 01, 2021, 06:45:42 PM

Title: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 01, 2021, 06:45:42 PM

This thread is where I will post stories of the PCs.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 01, 2021, 06:58:28 PM

Sylvestor Graves (Terrorshard, Plateau)

After becoming the wizard of note in Grimhold and starting a solid business, Sylvestor went on to have a good relationship with Gneon, Grand Protector of the Plateaus.

Choosing his fellow gnomes and wealth over the wizards of Iott, he became a target during the wars.  After the Day that Magic was Broken, Iott turned to assassinations of traitor wizards and Sylvestor, being notable but not truly powerful was high on their list.

While Gneon and many of his cohort were out in the world, Sylvestor was paid to protect Grimhold, a task which he excelled at using illusion.  However, the wizards of Iott were able to get through his defenses and strike where Gneon began in Grimhold.

Sylvestor died a hero, concealing the true fate of the city, allowing the attackers to believe they had done far more damage than they thought.

His shop remains, with the new owners using his name and legacy to maintain its fame.

The Assault on Grimhold occurred in 797 AC.

Illusionist 11

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 01, 2021, 07:24:20 PM

Arken Psychestone (Malchia, Plateau)

Talented psionic crafter, the crystal dwarf found a profitable and welcome home in Grimhold working for Gneon in the expanding city.  Psionics became more and more popular as Iott's grip tightened and alternatives to magic were needed.

Arken developed novel items and his stylings began to be copied first on the plateau and then more widely.  Gneon use of copyright and adherence to business law helped Arken greatly and his wealth became significant.

Notoriety and fame have their drawbacks.  When the Assault on Grimhold occurred, he was high on the list, but happened to not be there as the assault began.  Alerted psionically to the threat, Arken was left with a hard choice.  He was one of the few that could make it there to help, using psionics to travel where magic and mundane means were not options.  He also sensed the danger that the return would be, but his cousin Gerlock was in the city at his shop or home and he had to return.

Returning, Arken put his powers to work and activated the myriad of items he had crafted for such an occurrence.  His efforts saved his cousin and many others, but once the Iottians recognized his return, they exhausted many resources to ensure he hid not survive.

The cousin and apprentices continue to maintain his shop and supported the war against Iott in every way they could for the next two decades.

The Assault on Grimhold occurred in 797 AC.

Psychic Warrior 11

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 02, 2021, 01:05:45 AM

Rathos (Windblade, various)

The long adventuring, nimble warrior found the best employee he's had in Gneon and from the beginning of Iott's reign on he was paid well to be part of Gneon's cohort.  Traveling with the Admiral of the Skyship Armada, Rathos became known for years as a master of combat on the airship.  Using his skills as an acrobatic warrior, he became unmatched at combat on the airships.  Tales of him repelling endless streams of summoned creatures by bouncing around the ship were legendary in the armada.

It was not lack of skill or need that saw the near fifty year old retire.  Even though his skills did begin to wane, with magic not available to set right the mounting injuries, Rathos was still a match for nearly anyone in the rigging of the airship.  But other things called to him.  His family had not gone unscathed in the plagues and wars and the life that he had put off for many years called to him.  He returned home, somewhat angering Gneon as the war was not over.

Finding a home not far from his off and on adventuring companion Harris, he retired far from the action and hid his family for fear of retribution.  He found a young woman to take as a wife and started a family.  Time and effort has hidden memory of him and his exploits.

Rathos left the adventuring life and service to Gneon in 808 AC, one year after the worst of the plagues.

Rogue 5 / Fighter 2 / Acrobat 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 02, 2021, 01:24:16 AM

Owen Brisbane (Valdis, various)

The word war profiteer is defined by the magic item creating wizard.  Living in Grimhold and vying for title as the provider of the best items in the city, he found great fortune in providing Gneon and his allies with items.  If not for the constant strife, his shenanigans would have been uncovered earlier.  As it was, he went on amassing a fortune for decades.

When the assault on Grimhold occurred, he did not defend the city other than to protect those that paid him.  When the Iottians sought information about the residents, he provided that for a fee, leading them into traps...or giving them accurate intel if the price was right.  As was the case when he thwarted a trick of his main rival Sylvestor, leading to his death.  Owen also saw the greater tricks that fooled the Iottians, but left them in place to protect his source of revenue.

When the battles moved from the Great Plateau, Owen moved to where money could be made.  His exploits around the world selling items of great value and dubious worth made him wealthy as a prince.  A number of times, he only narrowly avoided collection or a deadly encounter with his pseudo nemesis, Parker Berko.

When Kallark was destroyed in 814 AC, and there was no doubt Iott's reign was over; Owen's life finally caught up with him.  Found by the Iottians in one of their final strategies, not for victory but for revenge, he was de-magiked.  Left with only his wealth to protect him, and revealed to the world by the Iottains, he remaining days are spent spending his fortune to stay ahead of those that want him dead and trying to find a way to cast again.

Wizard 15

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 02, 2021, 09:20:45 PM

Finneas Grignard II (Hero, Plateau)

The aged halfling finds himself as an important cog in the wheel that is the revitalization of the Great Plateau.  As Gneon consolidated power, he time and again came to Finn to give guidance on how to maintain the natural balance on the plateau.  Being wise enough to know the Gneon wasn't truly interested, but smart enough to not look a gift horse in the mouth, Finn used the relationship to make a difference on the Great Plateau.

When Iott arrived, he aided in the defense against the wizards.  When the plagues came, he helped fend them off, which the Great Plateau did as well as any other place in the world.  He became well known and liked.  But not all was well.  Some of his faithful brothers in Habastly abhorred his relationship, as tenuous as it was, with tinkers.  The Warden's of Nature on more than one occasion had to be turned away with force.  Finn was forced to take the lead to save them or others from death.

His large family flourished and spread around the Great Plateau.  Words were spoken of him being in line for possibly becoming the high cleric.  Respected, loved, powerful, liked, influential, goodly, and many other praises were piled upon him.  Few came out of the turmoil of the early 800's as well as Finn...until it ended on a fiery day in 816, when the undead came to town.

Cleric 4 / Grovetender 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 02, 2021, 09:39:43 PM

Kovar Jolan (Master Po, various)

By the time of Iott's reign, Kovar had already been in the service of Lord Maximillion for years.  That did not change at first, as he set about his vigilante means of justice, kept safe by the machinations of the High Noble family.  So called refugees of Borkondof were often a target.

Iott's actions changed a great deal, as the king waffled and changed course to the anger of the high nobles.  Finally, when they had enough of the king's decisions as the struggle with Iott drug on, the had enough.  Kovar, disgusted by a king he long ago and disavowed took the fight to the king's loyalists.  Backed in secret by the high nobles, Kovar, a force even in his six decade gave ultimatums to those he found: renounce the king, leave the nation, or die.

Seemingly immune to the plagues, inspired by Dedestroyt, and unphased by the weakening of arcane magic, his reign of terror became a story of dread for children.  His only targets were adult males, but that made no difference in the stories.  Iott's agents searched for him and thanks to the aid of Lord Maximillion failed to find him.  To his luck, Kovar never spoke against Iott nor attacked their agents, nor did he try and destabilization the nation.

Finally, as Iott had to withdraw its imposed order, he turned to larger targets.  More notable lords.  By the time, after years of terror, he came to the estate of the Loyalist Poed family, he was accompanied by dozens of raiders in 813 AC...

Monk 1/ Cleric 3/ Fighter 2/ Vigilant 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 02, 2021, 09:51:54 PM

Wilham Poed (Windblade, Mounted)

Having retired after a relatively brief stint as an adventurer, Wilham found the traditional love of food and farm with the occasional jaunt around on his beloved mounts.  He was already living that life when Iott began its rule.  Little changed as the Yellowian king flopped and floundered in his responses to Iott.  When other lords cried out, the Poeds stayed in quiet support of the king.  As nations began to need food, they were quick to send aid.  Wilham flying missions with flocks of creatures to delivery food where magic was blocked.

So his life continued, keeping the peace in his family's lands and bothering little with the battles of the world beyond.  This went on for two decades, where he started his own family and watched somewhat suspiciously as a shrine of Quan Yin was built on his family's estates.  Two children, fifteen mounts, and 6,400 pies into life on the farm, a call came from a farmer.  Dedestroyt's Knight had arrived.  Wilham had not wanted to see this day, but he feared it would come.  The knight had been wandering Yellowia for years and had grown more bold.  Now, he came to the Poed's fields.

Wilham gathered his mounts and his ill fitting gear and went to meet the threat.  He demanded no others come with him, knowing that the rest of his family would likely flee or die in the opening moments of any fight.  No other allies could be called, magic was not that reliable anymore.  His other friends of old could not help him against his one time companion Kovar.  He wished for Malchia, Ty, Vor'Ruk, Ajax, and maybe even Ash.  He kissed his family, ask for a blessing from his cousin the cleric of Habastly, and flew off...

Ranger 7 / Skymount 8

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 02, 2021, 11:05:31 PM

Wilham and Kovar

On the 3rd day of the 9th month of 813, the sun was setting on the Poed estate.  As was Kovar's way, he arrived as the sun was setting.  Wilham saw the guards fleeing from the road where the estate began.  They had been told to do so should Dedestroyt's Knight approach.  Dressed in the white death's head as was the long tradition of vigilantes of Yellowia, Kovar was mounted, surrounded by his raiders, also on horse.  To be fair, the radiers' stories exceeded their actions.  They did not pillage, loot, burn or rape.  They did murder and extort.

From above, Wilham counted 25 including Kovar.  He easily spotted those hidden and those waiting far behind.  They stood at the gate, waiting.  Wilham obliged and descending to talking distance, surrounded by his flock of birds, griffon, pegasus, giant insects, and winged dogs.  Doubling the number of raiders among the larger creatures, and far outnumbering them if the tiny animals were counted, Wilham was as imposing as possible.

"You know who I am, you know my demand?"

"I do, please leave."

"Your choice is made."

Kovar, sword drawn, spurred his horse forward and the raiders followed, charging down the road towards the estate house.  Wilham knew his father would not give in to the request to disavow the king, nor would he leave the land, that meant only death.  Wilham sent his swarm to delay and dismount the raiders and he fired arrow after arrow at Kovar.  For every arrow that hit, one was deflected by the great sword and one missed.  Until his quiver was empty, he fired.  Unable to bring himself to kill the horse, he hoped lucky shot would kill Kovar, but the knight was undeterred.

With the flock and the raiders at a standstill, the farm rose up to stop them.  Entangled by plants slowed and poisoned lightly, the raiders were all stopped for the moment.  But Kovar was seemingly unharmed and relentless.  Wilham took up his lance and drove to attack.  Kovar new what was coming, and readied himself.  The two jousted with great sword and lance for pass after pass.  Kovar only able to make sure that he wasn't run through and Wilham waiting for the perfect time to finish the duel.

It would have only been a matter of time before the fight would have been won by a well placed lance of Wilham's, but the raiders gained the upper hand on the flock.  The four that had been hidden and held back joined the fight, putting the flock at a disadvantage.  Only Kovar's death soon would save the flock and his father.  The raiders would run on towards the estate house once they cleared the flock.

Kovar, unconcerned if it was him or one of the raiders that got to the lord was content to fight Wilham, the only threat on the estate, to a draw.  After several minutes of battle, Wilham had to make the choice to ignore the risk and go full into Kovar's attack.  The stories of what a Vigilant could do to finish his task were legendary, and Wilham now knew how true the legend was.  Only an utterly devastating attack could stop Kovar.  At full tilt, he flew in.  Kovar readied his own attack, preparing a death blow of Dedestroyt.

The lance hit first, putting a hole in the chest of Kovar that no creature survives.  But Wilham knew that was not the end, knew that the reputation of the Vigilant and Kovar meant that in the throws of death Vengeance would be sought.  He hoped for luck, he prayed for deliverance, but Dedestoyt's grasp was strong.

The raiders, seeing the leader slumped over, held in place only by the lance of Wilham, fled.  They knew the job had ended and wanted to be far away.  Wilham, cleaved nearly in two by the serrated great sword, was quickly carried away by the remains of his flock.  His mount, Pecan III, limped away towards the house, trying to keep up with others.

Days later, a great ceremony, and a simple one, were both held.  The funeral of Wilham, presided over by his cousin the cleric of Habastly and watched by the family cleric of Dedestroyt, was attended by two thousand.  4,000 pies were eaten.  The second ceremony involved only the cleric of Dedestoyt, who buried the faithful servant Kovar a thousand feet from the Poed cemetery.  It would remained unmarked in words, but a small tree would be noted so that the family would know.

The raiders that had fled looked to keep up their fallen leader's ways, but within months they were all killed by an assailant they never saw, one at a time.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 03, 2021, 12:10:28 AM

This is very entertaining.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 03, 2021, 08:25:09 PM

Cordaro Blackbattle (Zunder, Plateau)
 
A well paid employee of Gneon in Grimhold, Cordaro continued his success for a time.  Plying his skills of combining magic and stealth in ways few other son the plateau could, he found a niche.
 
When Iott came to power outside the plateau, a new mission came into focus, one that was even more lucrative: spy.  Paid by his clan and by Iott, he used his good will with Gneon and the people of Grimhold to spend years relaying information.  He was never deep into the planning of Gneon, or stealing to killing anyone, but information that couldn't be otherwise obtained was given.
 
For a decade he had been working well in his position until finally the Marshall caught his scent.  Even after that, Cordaro spent nearly two years in and around Grimhold, staying one step ahead of the law.  Finally, Marshall Wayne cornered him.  The wily dwarf evaded and escaped for hours in the city they both knew well, but the Marshall was better.
 
Sticking to the law, Cordaro's life was spared, as his offenses could not be proven to lead to any deaths, and there was the matter of the assault on Grimhold years before.  Remembering that Cordaro had aided in the city's defense, when he could have stabbed the in the back, the Marshall gave him a sentence of prison until Iott's reign was over.
 
From 803 until the death of Kallark in 814, Cordaro remained in prison.

Wizard 4 / Rogue 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 03, 2021, 09:00:15 PM

Couple things grab my attention:

• The Iottians attacked the Plateau. I thought there was a magically sealed treaty that prevented that. What happened?
• Plagues. Little too much like real life on that one.
• Destruction of the quasi-deity Kallark. I hope that was an accomplishment of the Collector. Kallark's high cleric was a d-bag to Natsu.
• Finn's end came on a "fiery day" with undead involved - stupid Harrick.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 04, 2021, 01:03:47 PM

Harris Drake Travelerson (Whitesword, various)

The land rush on the Great Plateau treated Harris well.  Quickly becoming one of the two most notable land owners near Grimhold, he held sway with the might of his hammer.  He did not have to conquer to control, intimidation and reputation were enough for him to have that power.  Only the Yellowian transplant family near Grimhold did not do as he suggested.

This set up continued through the days of the Iottian reign and the war that followed.  Harris made sure the lands near Gimhold were free of wizardly influence.  His band more than once found an infiltrator and he turned down bribes on a number of occasions.  He held a respectful but not friendly relationship with Marshall Wayne, which was tested when Harris did not quickly rush to Gimhold's aid in the attack by the Iottians.

Growing fat and happy, unchallenged in his lands, Harris aged for the better part of two decades in hog heaven.  Enjoying the pleasures of life that wealth and power can afford, while not be too much a pain to cause the powers that be to do something about him.

Able to pull that off for a long time, there finally arose a situation that he could not ignore and was a bit worrisome.  In 816, the sky to the north lit up with a red glow that had people from all over the area rushing to their protector.  Harris, old and not in the shape he used to be felt a twinge in his gut he had not felt for a long time.  Taking up his hammer, which the gnomes of the area called "Makuredifudigrav", Harris gathered his band and went north.

Fighter 3 / Berserker 3 / Shock Trooper 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 04, 2021, 02:03:44 PM

Marston Wayne (Malchia, Plateau)

The sheriff of Grimhold becomes of the Marshall of Grimhold and the surrounding lands and for the years of Iott's reign is both that and an advisor to Gneon, Lord of Grimhold, Commander of the Defense of the Plateau.  Aided by Gnigel and many deputies, Marston kept the are secure and safe.  Often having to sniff out infiltrators, he was busy but up to the task  His repuation began to proceed him to the point were fewer and fewer tried anything in and around Grimhold.

His job became even more challenging after the war began in 796.  The days were long and the nights not restful.  Open hostilities meant combat not just infiltration.  Calling upon allies and not just employees more often, Grimhold was a center of action as Gneon's headquarters, even though not the capital.  It was not long into the war that the biggest test yet arrived in the assault on Grimhold. 

Marston quickly realized he was in command of the defense of the city and called upon all of his allies to help.  Some answered the call, others did not.  Standing in the open to draw fire and returning the attack with deadly precision, Marston valiantly stood his ground at the main way into the city.  Much of it had been proofed against magical intrusion.  Since Grimhold was smaller and newer than most Plateauian cities and very well planned, that was possible.  An endless stream of summoned creatures stormed towards him as waves of fear drove most of the other defenders into the city.  The horde came on for an hour.  His hands burning and having used all of the ammunition that had been stacked at the entrance for him and all of the other defenders, the assault ended.

The story of Marston's feat outshone any of the other stories of the day.  For the Marshall, the assault did not end his hard time in Grimhold.  For years, he would be on constant alert against traitors, saboteurs and assassins.  Although some petitioned that he be sent on offense, Gneon insisted Marston remain in Grimhold and protect it, and he did.

Marston fought through the war.  He seemed unphased by the plagues.  He held firm against the petitions of other deities seeking him to draw him form a weakened Falan; even having to duel some of the last members of the faith of Lightstalker before it lost power.  He turned down bribes and offers of higher office to turn away from Gneon.  Even when Gneon himself asked him to leave Gimhold as Iott's end was clear, the aged Marston refused to leave the city that was as much as part of him as he was of it.

Once it was clear the war was over, Marston turned to the one burr that had bothered him for decades.  One that he had not been able to rid himself of due to bigger issues; the circus master Hognus, who like Marston has survived the ordeals of Grimhold.  It seemed as if old man Marston would soon finish that last task, when days before arresting Hognus, the norther sky turned red and one more time he was called into action...

Rogue 2 / Ranger 9 / Pistolier 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 04, 2021, 02:20:54 PM

Artemus (Windblade, Plateau)

The Keeper of the Hand of Falan was through for a loop soon after the Counsil Meeting of 791 when his patron lost some power.  Called upon soon after, Artemus was tasked with being at the forefront of bringing tinkering of sorts under the supervision of Falan.  Leaving his shop for months at a time to demonstrate the power of the clicking hand and to evangelize, he lead a busy life.

For five years, he made some progress, while evading attacks by those that sought Falan's ultimate demise and those that sought tinkering for themselves: the faiths of Ziest, Lansin, and Tefershot.  After the Day the Magic Broke, thinks did not get easier for Artemus.  Spells he relied on started to fail, and now the wizards of Iott and elsewhere targeted him.

His survival lay likely in his continued giving over to the machine, as his body became more and more mechanical.  This did increase his ability to spread the word of Falan and inspire and intrigue.  On a number of occasions, he faced off with the mad tinker's agent, Gmax.  At least twice, the two 'died' on the battlefield only to be reincarnated by the deity's power and that of tinkering.

Artemus was not in Grimhold during the assault, a fact which haunted him.  After it, he would spend more time there; except for his two years on the Southern Plateau spreading the word of Falan.  By 815, he returned full time to Grimhold, traveling to the nearby Bullwark regularly in preparation for the Counsil meeting of 816.  Happy for a year at his old home and surrounded by his shop and surviving friends, one day a surge of energy burst through his body.  Confused at first because he thought it may be a machination of his, Artemus soon realized the red sky was real and he must go...

Tinekr 2 / Cleric 5 / Machinehead 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 04, 2021, 02:30:12 PM

Rodiosha Ver'Treman (Asinjin, Plateau)

After years as a small time sheriff, the Gree was thrilled at the arrival of Gneon and the new direction of the Great Plateau.  Happy with the organization and willing to be a sheriff piece in the greater plan, he maintained his role for all the years of Iott's reign and the war and still beyond that.

Rogue 3 / Wizard 3 / Ranger 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 04, 2021, 02:33:42 PM

Lyraessa Vartalo (Hero, Plateau)

Her time on the Great Plateau was brief.  Once Gneon's rule began and Iott's reign was under way, life in a tinkering city offered little for an elven psionic.  With the benefit of long life and many chances to start again, she returned home to wait for a time when the world was different.

Psion 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 04, 2021, 02:53:35 PM

Finneas Grignard III (Hero, Plateau)

Under the shadow of his growing more popular father, the younger Finn drifted farther and farther from the Plateau proper.  Ending up in the Great Forest, he mingled with other halflings, and found some entertainment in the halfling communities under the rule of Scalehome.  But snake bitten as he seemed, Iott would soon level rule against firearms.  Finn was forced to leave the communities, and found no more happiness in the southern forest under the stone fisted rule of Tyrogatore and their disgusting allies: the gnolls, giants, and orcs.

Finn wandered farther yet, putting on shows of skill where he could and living a travelers life.  He was vaguely aware of the major events of the world, but unless they directly effected the city he was in, he didn't pay much attention.  Traveling the main continent, he visited many nations and more cities than he could count.

Maybe having been able to give the date (816), he was one stormy night at an inn called the Low Bar in the City of Ermaneo when a thundercrack and lightning struck.

Rogue 2/ Paladin 4/ Pistolier 2

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 04, 2021, 03:35:34 PM

Tuco (Master Po, Plateau)

The one eyed scoundrel traveled the world for many years.  In each city he went to, he stayed until his welcome was worn out, which was often not long.  Every constable group and a vast number of organizations including the: Oneace, Redleaf, Dock Rats, Scaletakers, Fensin, Sailor's Guild, and even the Ritvalists had thrown him out of their cities.

Ending up back in the city of Ermaneo, he found a place that would not throw him out so long as Spinnar kept half of his ill gotten gains.  Playing a game of seven headed hydra, in the Low Bar one night, he took a hand after a thunder clap and lightning strike distracted the others at the table.

Rogue 2 / Oddsmaker 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 04, 2021, 04:03:30 PM

Yurishami Ahiro (Windblade, Seas)

A one time corsair, he made a living for several years aboard some famous and other not so famous ships.  Having earned a living and with larger wars on the horizon, he retired to his home island and started a family with the coin he had earned.  During that time, he was caught in the rising tide of Quan Yin's faith.  Inspired, his family grew large.  Years passed and the religion of Quan Yin began to evangelize, sending its clerics out into the world as never before.  Now a faithful servant of Quan Yin, blessed with a family of eight children and having avoiding the plagues thanks to his faith, Yuri agreed to sail aboard the Waves of Peace, one of the chief ships of the religion's.  He still sails ably into his 50's.

Crafter 7

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 05, 2021, 12:14:48 AM

There are 119 characters with more than 2 sessions and alive at the end of era 2.  I have now done 16 of them...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 05, 2021, 01:33:10 AM

First the end of Lightstalker.  I don't think I need anything else now.

Second nice job on all the stories. 

I really like the battle with Wilham and Kovar. 

I feel like I might be missing something but I don't quite understand what happened here:

Happy for a year at his old home and surrounded by his shop and surviving friends, one day a surge of energy burst through his body.  Confused at first because he thought it may be a machination of his, Artemus soon realized the red size was real and he must go


Also is that my Yuri.  I totally forget about him or did someone else have a Yuri that I forgot about.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 05, 2021, 09:05:31 AM

Quote from: Windblade on January 05, 2021, 01:33:10 AM

Happy for a year at his old home and surrounded by his shop and surviving friends, one day a surge of energy burst through his body.  Confused at first because he thought it may be a machination of his, Artemus soon realized the red size was real and he must go

Should read red sky not size

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 05, 2021, 09:05:53 AM

Quote from: Windblade on January 05, 2021, 01:33:10 AM

Also is that my Yuri.  I totally forget about him or did someone else have a Yuri that I forgot aboutm

Yes, yours

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 05, 2021, 09:13:26 AM

Hipolet Frozensky (Master Po, String Mountain)

After leaving the forest on several extended missions to explore the world and help his fellow dwarves in Port Springs and the mountains to the east, Hipolet forever retired into the forest he loved.  Seeing few other than his animal companions and other Frozenskys he chose to interact with when needed, he faded from the memory of even most of those that he had adventured with over the years.

Ranger 6/ Rogue 1/ Pathfinder 8

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 05, 2021, 09:18:39 AM

Marduk (Windblade, Wizards)

The strange creature arrived with the wizards from another world on the Day the Magic Broke (or the Day of Broken Magic).  The new world was fascinating to him and it was equally fascinated with the strange bull headed creature.  Getting lost in the shuffle in the chaos that surrounded that day the the time after, he settled out of the way, hoping to find a comfortable place in the new world, which for all its strangeness was a far better place than from where he had come.  He did find that place, but none knew where it was, and after a few years, none remembered him and he was seemingly erased.

Ranger 13

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 05, 2021, 09:29:15 AM

Quote from: Hero on January 03, 2021, 09:00:15 PM

Couple things grab my attention:

• The Iottians attacked the Plateau. I thought there was a magically sealed treaty that prevented that. What happened?
• Plagues. Little too much like real life on that one.
• Finn's end came on a "fiery day" with undead involved - stupid Harrick.

I had the same questions and thoughts as Hero. 

What happened with the treaty?  Fiery day for resisdents of Grimhold?  And definitely had the same reaction to the plague.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 05, 2021, 12:59:24 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 03, 2021, 09:00:15 PM

- stupid Harrick.

his saggy flesh arm salutes.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 09:55:38 AM

Gogenstern Frozensky (Malchia, String Mountain)

Like his clansmate, Gogenstern adventured beyond the forest home of his clan for a bit.  Not seeing a life beyond the woods that was any more meaningful or important than his task as a cleric for the dwarves, he returned to the forest and remained there.  He tended to the needs of the Frozensky as they kept out of the battles of their arcane obsessed and mundane devoted cousins.

Cleric 3 / Ranger 2 / Nightengale 5

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 10:12:18 AM

Tolan (Valdis, Icefia)

Keeping mostly to himself after his abrupt return to the Grean republic, Tolan keeps as far away as he can from the major cities and military installations where he may be recognized.  He finds works as a blacksmith and secretly continues his bladelord training.  He eventually crosses paths with the Unwanted and mentors some of their members.  Never officially joining their cause, determined to live a quieter life.

Life in the Grean Republic was good for only a brief time for the returned Gree.  Soon after the treaty was signed with Iott, he became marked for death.  Part of the agreement with Iott was aid in hunting down Unwanted for the republic.  Had it not been for the breaking of magic, this effort would have advanced much further.

As it was, Iott was only able to spend a small amount of time and effort.  Unfortunately for Tolan, he met the profile they wanted to find better than most. Having spent time in Icefia and learning skills rare in the Republic, Iott located and found him quickly.  Skilled, but separated from his former allies and overwhelmed by Iottian wizards, he succumbed to the assault in 793 AC.

Fighter 8 / Bladelord 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 10:16:20 AM

For'Jeck Frozensky (Zunder, Port Springs)

The tales of the dwarves of the Frozensky clan often follow the same path.  Leaving the forest for adventure and to see the world, they are not impressed and return to the place from whence they came.  This is also true of For'Jeck.  Although he spent more time than some of his clanmates out in the world, he nonetheless returned to the forest to live there.  Avoiding the wars and problems the rest of the world had in the early 9th century, For'Jeck used his unique skills to keep the clan safe.

Fighter 5 / Psion 5

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 10:40:44 AM

Gneblin Gnearmetal (Windblade, Plateau)

When Gneon, Admiral of the Air Ship Fleet, arrived on the Plateau, thinks began to change for many of its inhabitants.  This accelerated in 791 as Iott began to take control of many parts of the world.  Tinkers, long the enemy of the wizards, where a target.  But Gneon offered protection.  Through his deft negotiation, he had managed to sign a treaty protecting all under his rule.  After the destruction of the Shelleshe fleet and later the burning of the Yellowian field and the melting of the Icefian Glacier, many rushed for protection.  The gnomes of the plateau were first in line.

Gneblin met with Gneon in 794, one of many to stand weeks in line to get an audience with the  Backer of Mighty Clickers.  In the time leading up to the war, Gneon was collecting the greatest inventions in hopes of combating Iott.  Gneblin made a pitch for his POUNCER 9000 V7.  Gneon was impressed and amused and brought Gneblin on board.  Giving me resources, he ordered five versions be made.  For years Gneblin toiled and constructed.  For a time, he traveled to the southern plateau and was able to perfect and improve his designs.

Returning home in 799, he was finally able to put on full display his accomplishments.  A small army of POUNCERS.  Now color coded for their specialty, they were handed out to all gnomish units, where there was one clicker specialist operating it.  The POUNCERS were specialized for terrain: forest, desert, aerial, mountain, and swamp.  Once in the field, they became quickly known by Iott and its allies.  For several years until the ascension of Kallark, the POUNCERS were often a means of victory a certainly a simple for the allies of Gneon to rally behind.

Gneblin was not done, and he continued to design for years.  By 810, he had plans for an even more spectacular clicker.  Rather than waste the broken POUNCERS that had been returned to him, he had begun forging them together into massive constructs.  Using the broken parts, he made a body and added to it a head where the controller could sit.  Not unlike Tinker Armor, but bigger, he imagined it would walk the sea floor and invade Iott. 

His design caught the attention of the Iottians and their allies.  Before he could complete the project, in 811, he was assassinated.  By the slag that was left thorugh his complex, all knew that Iott's deadliest hunter had done the deed.  Everything, despite its resistance to fire, had been turned to slag.  Designs burned, Gneblin nothing but ash, his spirit exiled to the plane of fire.

Fighter 2/ Tinker 13

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 11:47:08 AM

Khyron (SM, Plateau)

While he always seemed out of place on the Plateau, where tinkers were common and wizards not, he finally found his place after Iott rise to power.  Recruitment to the side of the arcane was not hard after spending more than a decade practicing magic while being mocked and browbeaten by his tinker neighbors.  Despite that, none considered him a threat and they had grown so used to him that by the reign of Iott, few took the time to consider Khyron.

He served as a mole, relaying information to Iott.  Finally given the respect he felt he deserved, the wizard grew confident and his power grew.  For nearly twenty years, he played his part.  When Kallark was destroyed, he finally decided the time to leave had arrived.  Collecting his belongings, now wealthy from years of service, he left the Plateau with plans to live in Iott.  He would not reach his destination, killed by tinkers who had figured out he was a spy and hunted him down.

Wizard 9

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 11:54:58 AM

Marhand Frozensky (WM, String Mountain)

Another in a long list of dwarves of the forest that adventured and then settled down.  A warrior from the eastern forest and militia veteran, he fought in the Seige of Dramman and many other battles with and against the Frost Giants.  After those battles, he started a family.  But his military experience was invaluable and he was pressed into service again to watch the giants.  Iott's efforts to spark wars between the giant factions was successful.  No war among the giants can help but spill over and Marhand was tasked with keeping it out of the forest.

The Frozensky's fought several battles at the edge of the mountains as the giants tried to use the forest to maneuver.  Demanding they stay neutral, the dwarves refused access.  None of the battles are named or well known, but they were hard fought with Marhand often at the head.  The giants never were able to use the forest as a path and the Frozensky were never dragged further into the war.

Marhand retired in 815 and went to be thane of a village.

Fighter 14

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 12:06:41 PM

Hardrada (SM, String Mountain)

Barbarian warrior who survived the battles against giants and the cults of cold, he never again achieved the greatness he found in those battles.  But he ego aged well and he told the stories again and again, luckily having proof of his accomplishments.  He ignored the war and events of the world, focusing on his tales and his wealth, which was substantial for a barbarian.  He died happily in his sleep of self induced but natural causes sometime in 814.

Fighter 12

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 06, 2021, 03:01:37 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 10:40:44 AM

His design caught the attention of the Iottians and their allies.  Before he could complete the project, in 811, he was assassinated.  By the slag that was left thorugh his complex, all knew that Iott's deadliest hunter had done the deed.  Everything, despite its resistance to fire, had been turned to slag.  Designs burned, Gneblin nothing but ash, his spirit exiled to the plane of fire.

Tchau?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 08:07:02 PM

Gnickel Ferrite (Hero, Plateau)

Many who worked for Gneon, Benefactor of the Great Tinkers, went on to fame, fortune, and greatest.  Some did not have that luxury, and such was the tale of Gnickel after the rise of Iott.  Unlike many of Gneon's other agents and employees, Gnickel was holed up in a secret lab.  Fearing that he would either betray them for the Iottians because of his arcane ties, or afraid that the Iottians would kill him because of his inside knowledge of blending the two, Gneon felt that he could best be used as a researcher.

Since saying no to Gneon meant saying no to his protection and bank roll, Gnickel decided to rely on a long life and temporary security and went along with the plan.  He was allowed to bring a family into the secret lab and his days were filled with good food and plenty of tools.  His research into how the new magical ways interacted with clickers was helpful.  His inventions were also put to good use.

The world into which Gnickel emerged was quite different from the one he left.  Knowing that Iott had fallen, he was allowed to return to Grimhold and live a normal life again, now with a family.  Sadly, Gnimhold was not quite how he remembered it.

Tinker 2 / Wizard 5 / Marcanist 2

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 08:20:26 PM

Isaac (Terrorshard, Icefia)

The Icefian trained bard spent a great deal of time in Port Phiam, earning his keep and perfecting his craft.  With visits to the Bardic College from time to time.  He only narrowly missed being there when the dragons attacked.  Later, in Phiam, he only narrowly missed being dragged into the sea.  It seemed whenever he made a move in Icefia, danger lurked right near him.  After years of this, he got fed up and looked for better luck.

Paying for a cruise, he sailed south, only to end up on a Corsair ship after the ship he had paid to sail on was attacked by pirates and then rescued.  The Corsair ship carried him until he was able to reach another port, this time Magenthia.  Once there, he was able to make a living until Sutyr left the Counsil.  Strife erupted in the city, and again, Isaac fled his bad luck.  To the Great Forest he went, where halflings always love a good song.

Again, his time was fruitful.  But the plagues came, and no where was it worse than the forest, where the gnolls, seemingly immune to every one of the plagues, began to take over.  South he would go next, to Hertoplowis.  The dour citizens wanted different songs, so the Maestro changed his tune.  Bad luck came knocking again in the form of an Iottian attack the leveled his arena.  Knowing where to get out of the way was an art for Isaac now, and he fled on ship east to Undrile.

Few cities had the reputation of the lawless tropical port.  Even the Iottians had decided to not lay claim to it.  Singing bawdy ballads now, the bard proved his versatility.  Again, he was thwarted as the city was evangelized by Quan Yin and the brothels were there first target.  Isaac was out of there in no time.  Now traveling by foot, he wandered for a year before ending up another tropical port city.

Employed at the Low Bar, he sang songs for everyone and had become quite popular.  So it was disappointing one night when the storm was so strong that even his music could not overcome the thunder and rain.

Bard 6 / Maestro 2

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 08:39:02 PM

Brack Sizzlestone Lighteningrock (Windblade, String Mountain)

A leader of the Blitzcaster guild, Brack was quick to denounce Iott's efforts.  He had never been a fan of Kallark and found his and Iott's alliance disturbing.  While some Blitzcasters spoke of neutrality or even alliance with Iott, Brack was settled against it.

Renowned for the skill, the Blitzcasters were granted a rare treat.  The Marshall herself, Lyla, came to visit them and parley with them.  Hopeful they would see the light, she spent days among them, talking and convincing.  Hour by hour, she convinced member after member to at least not side against Iott.  But Brack would not bend.  Finally, she challenged Brack to a duel.  Not to the death.  If she won, the Blitzcasters would back Iott, if Brack won, she would end her efforts to bring the Dwarven kingdom under Iott's protection.

Brack had little choice, and little interest in not accepting the duel.  To not do so would have diminished his standing to the point where his brothers may not have listened to him anyway.  He agreed and set the stage.  The arena of the Blitzcasters was made ready and a hundred wizards of power along with clerics of Kallark and Smofarf watched.

Few have witnessed a duel the likes of was seen that day.  Brack unleashed a torrent of spells that could level a city or mountain, that could wipe out 20,000 soldiers, that could have killed any being on the planet.  Only vast protective spells shielded the audience from death.  Gems of Viewing showed other mages around the world the battle.  The sky lit up for those two mountains away to see.

But it was not enough.  Lyla was beyond the ability of mortal magic to harm.  Even though she was scorched, chilled, bludgeoned, shaken, and cut; she stood tall.  Accepting every spell Brack dealt out, she withstood the barrage and finally responded.  She retort was precise and accurate.  Brack's defenses held for the moment and he rushed in with his staff.  Unprepared for the attack, Lyla for a moment reeled as the weapon glowed and sang.  But again, it was not quite enough.  Her spells tore at his strength, slowed his mind, and sapped in energy.  Brack was beaten.

The crowd applauded at the effort, while their reactions to the consequences were quite mixed.  Brack was taken to Iott and locked away, never to be seen again.

Wizard 5 / Blitzcaster 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 10:33:44 PM

Saren Thatcher (Valdis, Pacyr)

The paladin of the old way travels the world with a large list of wrongs to right.  Moving back and forth between Pacyr and the Great Plateau, he constantly fights the undead evils hoping to annihilate them completely before a new power arises.  When Iott comes to power, he fights them as well.  When the plagues sweep the world, he aids the sick.  Tirelessly, he becomes known for his heroism.

The Knight of the Forest's Edge Road is the moniker given to him, as in two decades he travels it more often than anyone else.  Being the road that leads most directly from the plateau to Pacyr.  In that time, he fights against gnoll raiders spreading the plague.  He frees villages from the magical control of Iott, and he smashes the undead of the plateau.

Despite those efforts, and the notoriety it brought him, he thought nothing would top the Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar in 815.  The last stand of Sutyr's faith brought in warriors from all over the world, and Saren was one of them.  He would tell the story as one of the few survivors.  But the battle shook him, and he wished to retire, but one final task called to him.  He would head to the Great Plateau again, inspired by the powers, the be there on a day when the sky turned fiery red...

Paladin 11 / Red Guard 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 11:16:58 PM

Olokas (WM, Pacyr)

Ranger of Stasis, the orcish holy warrior found himself as the leader of a growing contingent of celestials after the Day of the Scorpion.  Already accompanied by a Hound Archon named Aker, he was joined by a Deva immediately after the Day of the Scorpion.  Word spread to celestials trapped on Habololy that there was a haven with this holy warrior.  As they followed him, they began to take on his personality and mission, drawing strength from him as they would have from their home plane.

Their mission, destroy the undead.  Devoted to this goal, he sought out entities looking to claim the mantle of deity of the undead.  His band thwarted those beings just as they began, making sure none could get far into that plan.  His travels attracted others, and in that time he was aided by his friend Saren Thatcher and others.  But one who traveled with him for years was a mind flayer named Ri, a former companion that now was allied with Solaris.  When Solaris heard of the mission, wanting to help but not able to leave Pacyr, he released Ri to help in his place.

Strangely, but not surprisingly, Olokas' band grew as he sired half celestials with the Deva and the Aker found a mate and a pack of Hound Archons was the result.  Ri became the godfather to them all, instilling them with psionic talents that made this growing pack formidable.

They traveled the entire main continent trying to achieve their mission.  It was the Holy Pack that defeated the greatest threat to claiming the undead mantle.  Powered by disease and leading a horde of undead created from the plagues, a gnoll named Merid devoted to the worship of a planar deity of undeath and disease.  For several years, he roamed and collected.  Sadly, some places paid him to take the dead away from fear they could still infect the living, which sometimes turned out to be true.

When the pack finally found Merid and his horde, they heading into the jungle, ready to spread their pestilence into the Destroytian Peninsula...

Ranger 17

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 11:25:07 PM

Ri (Windblade, Pacyr)

The enlightened mind flayer held closely to Solaris after his death experience.  His story was the same as Solaris' until word came of the Holy Pack of Olokas and their quest to rid the world of undead.  Solaris saw an opportunity and sent Ri to aid their former companion.  Ri joined the pack and went out to destroy those that sought the power of undeath.

The mind flayer grew fond of the pack and drew strength from the celestials that made it.  His spirit lifted and his mission in focus, he trained the young pack members and was later made part of the family, godfather to hound archons and half celestial orcs alike.  It was his psionic powers that allowed the pack to find the tomb of the mummy and burn it before it arose again in undeath.

He and the pack found their greatest challenge in the jungle, as they confronted the vile gnoll who sought to be the deity of disease and undeath, Marin.  Sensing what the were up against, Ri called out to allies, hoping that some could arrive in time to aid them...

Mind Flayer 3/ Soulknife 5/ Prestige 8

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 11:31:30 PM

32 done, about 25% of the way there...seesh

Let me know your favorites so far.  Also enjoy the speculation posts and Easter Egg catches.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 06, 2021, 11:44:57 PM

I’m going to have to take notes on all the events. The Kovar v Wilhelm story is the highlight so far.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 07, 2021, 08:21:29 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 08:20:26 PM

Isaac

The Icefian trained bard spent a great deal of time in Port Phiam, earning his keep and perfecting his craft.  With visits to the Bardic College from time to time.  He only narrowly missed being there when the dragons attacked.  Later, in Phiam, he only narrowly missed being dragged into the sea.  It seemed whenever he made a move in Icefia, danger lurked right near him.  After years of this, he got fed up and looked for better luck.

Paying for a cruise, he sailed south, only to end up on a Corsair ship after the ship he had paid to sail on was attacked by pirates and then rescued.  The Corsair ship carried him until he was able to reach another port, this time Magenthia.  Once there, he was able to make a living until Sutyr left the Counsil.  Strife erupted in the city, and again, Isaac fled his bad luck.  To the Great Forest he went, where halflings always love a good song.

Again, his time was fruitful.  But the plagues came, and no where was it worse than the forest, where the gnolls, seemingly immune to every one of the plagues, began to take over.  South he would go next, to Hertoplowis.  The dour citizens wanted different songs, so the Maestro changed his tune.  Bad luck came knocking again in the form of an Iottian attack the leveled his arena.  Knowing where to get out of the way was an art for Isaac now, and he fled on ship east to Undrile.

Few cities had the reputation of the lawless tropical port.  Even the Iottians had decided to not lay claim to it.  Singing bawdy ballads now, the bard proved his versatility.  Again, he was thwarted as the city was evangelized by Quan Yin and the brothels were there first target.  Isaac was out of there in no time.  Now traveling by foot, he wandered for a year before ending up another tropical port city.

Employed at the Low Bar, he sang songs for everyone and had become quite popular.  So it was disappointing one night when the storm was so strong that even his music could not overcome the thunder and rain.

That's some real final destination stuff right there...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 10:27:56 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 06, 2021, 11:31:30 PM

32 done, about 25% of the way there...seesh

Let me know your favorites so far.  Also enjoy the speculation posts and Easter Egg catches.

This is a bit off I realize, because there are 5 Grean characters and a dozen Icefian characters whose stories I won't be writing due to copyright infringement...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 11:20:06 AM

The destruction of Merid

On the edge of the jungle in autumn of 810, the entity known as Merid was traveling to new lands in the Destroytian Peninsula to infect them with his plagues and grow in power.  Appearing as a decaying gnoll, the only thing that stood in its way was the pack of Olokas.  The pack had cleared the area ahead of Merid's arrival, giving it no creatures to kill and draw power from and putting no on in danger.

Sensing the danger, Ri had sent a psionic call out to allies who might be able to help them.  As the battle ensued, with the pack burning away the edges of the undead horde, Ri's call was answered.  Gails, the Anklelent, servant of Solaris and fellow celestial arrived, blessed by Solaris.  It traveled far and wide collecting those that had responded they would help.  One of the only creatures on Habololy that could still teleport great distances at will, Gails was a boon.  Saren, an off and on companion of the pack arrived.  Allies from Icefia, rarely seen on the main continent for the past decade appeared from the guardian temple, lead by Dovin.

As heroes of old gathered, some grew hopeful that Solaris himself or even legendary Ajax might appear.  Although they did not, an aging Firfin arrived, joined by a myriad of clerics of Falan.  The remaining waywatchers and knights of Stasis that lived on the main continent were brought in as well, Gails tirelessly teleporting them to aid the battle.  The tide turning towards the forces of light, Merid was finally able to trap Gails and banish the Anklelent for a time.

The undead servants of Merid did not fair well against what opposed them.  Holy energy and an assembled force coordinating in ways that had not been seen in 20 years fought as if they were 20 years younger, inspired by dreams of a time when evil was clear before them to fight.  Merid's undead even in destruction were dangerous.  Endless amounts of plague dust filled the battlefield.  As the undead lessened, the smog grew.  Efforts to blow it away were thwarted.  Holy energy had little impact on the natural diseases that composed much of the mist.

As many of the allies choked, nauseated, weakened, sickened and forced to back off; Merid went after those seemingly immune to the plagues.  Several knights and guardians were laid low.  As Merid moved to kill the incapacitated, Dovin dove to their defense, protecting his friends from certain death.  Some of those that perished rose in a terrible form, attacking their friends.  It fell to Saren to dispatch them to a final peaceful rest.

Olokas' pack fared better than the others.  Working in perfect harmony, doing what they had been doing for years together, they continued to wipe out the horde.  But they could do nothing against Merid.  The Deva feared banishment, a fate with unknown effects for those that had been on Habololy so long.  Leaving the pack, Olokas and Ri joined Dovin.

Although Dovin was not able to do much to harm Merid, he was equally unharmed from its attacks, as he was fighting to protect his allies as much as defeat Merid.  Olokas' attack was tremendous, and the holy knight of Stasis called out for Ajax's blessing as his sword smashed the creature time and again.  The vileness that spewed from Merid was intolerable and the disease that ravaged the three could be seen moment by moment.  Those in the area, already sickened, begin to quickly fade. 

Overcome with grief and about to expire, and told mentally by Ri, Dovin began to drag the others as far away as possible, calling out for the pack to do the same.  Saren, finishing the last of the undead fought his way towards Merid, but stopped short after a command from Ri, turning instead to save those around.  As Olokas pinned the wretched being down with his sword, his skin being eaten away by rot, Ri latched on the the head of the creature, tentacles driving into its brain.  Agonizing moments later, Ri torn the head from Merid and the explosion of filth covered the area.

It was an hour later when Dovin, Saren and the others were able to get close enough to see what was left.  Nothing was recognizable in the slime and dust except for the sword and armor of Olokas.  No undead remained in the area.  Merid's presence was banished from Habololy. 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 11:48:34 AM

Vega Blackbattle (Hero, Port Springs)

A dwarf without a side, the power struggles that raged around the world were mostly not touched by Vega upon his return to the city.  His focus, as always, was the safety of the city.  When it was decided that the city would formally leave the dwarven kingdom, he made due and kept things moving as they always had been.

When the Iottians demanded the city follow their rule, he shrugged and continued to uphold the appropriate laws.  When Nomagrok came calling with hopes for driving magic from the city, he defended it against the short lived attack.  When the plagues came, he took little pity on those that sought to profit from the event.  When the Ritvalists made an appearance, he put them on notice.  When the Grean fleet sought to blockade the city, he offered them only a gesture.  When spells broke and chaos ensued, he helped calm take hold again.  When Gneon sought to use Crazyrock as a base, he said no.  When the mobs wanted to lynch wizards that had aided Iott, he turned them back.

Time and again, Vega proved that he was an advocate for Port Springs.  Its defender and a favorite son.  It was with great fanfare and hope that he was made Chief Constable in 815, sworn in by his long time friend and fellow city hero, Daane Silversword.

Rogue 5/ Ranger 4/ Investigator 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 11:51:40 AM

Emmerick Blackhammer (Whitesword, Port Springs)

The oft troubled cleric of Falan had lived a tormented life and although respite was had for moments, the time after the severing was difficult as well.  Hoping to be shielded at the college from the hardest of events, torment came in many forms.  New undead entities that arose haunted his dreams.  Torment by Gmax invaded his thoughts as well.  Several times, he would be asked to aid against the undead, but he found it very difficult to leave and not be driven mad by temptation.

When the plagues arrived, life was even more difficult.  Convinced that any one would claim him and turn him undead, especially after word of the entity Meril came to light, he interacted less.  His classes were highly sought after for the insight into the madness of undeath.  Conspiracy theorists always sought his opinion: were the giants going to invade the kingdom from the north, was Yellowia going to assassinate the king and claim the throne, would the melting glacier flood the kingdom, would the death of fire bring a new ice age in which the chosen would rule, would Habastly and Lakius merge now that they faiths were similar, would the rarely seen Icefian eagle repopulate and take control of the skies, or would they go extinct and mean doom for all creatures of Icefia, would Thom defect to Iott and complete his family's plan for world domination, would all the planes be cut off from Habololy, would the wizards three turn to Iott's side, would the scaled elven genocide be completed, would Amatom conquer Layreadia and the new college in Ekarude, would magic ever be the same!!!

Nearly a Hermit, elderly and have mad by 816, the actions of the Counsil that year were the final straw.  He was found dead in his room at the college.

Cleric 6 / Bard 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 12:17:04 PM

Bandrig Granitebreaker (Whitesword, Falan)

Having been jailed for crimes in Pacyr, ones that he claims were ridiculous, his term ended, but bad luck would follow as it often does for one time criminals.  His efforts to reach other lands and travel were thwarted by the onset of Iott's reign.  Although he found employment working as he had been, but now for Iott and Hertoplowis, as Pacyr had closed its doors to nearly everyone thanks for the doom speaking president.

The amount of profit to be made getting items between the two nations was astounding.  Hertoplowis had immediately rejected Iott and the two fought as they had many times before.  Seeing opportunity, Bandrig was able to get prohibited items from place to place.  Never weapons or items of war, but comfort things such as pipeweed that just made people feel good for a time.

This went on until he was betrayed by a buyer in Hertoplowis.  Religious fanatics of Everentual dragged him to prison.  On trumped up charges he was deemed a spy of Iott and hung.

Rogue 4 / Wizard 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 12:31:18 PM

Laz (Whitesword, Seas)

The time of Iott's reign is not one that warrior's like Laz are enjoy.  Magic is dominant and those that cannot use it or stand strongly against it, which also required its use, were relegated to menial tasks.  Pay for corsairs plummeted, unless they were smugglers, and Laz had little skill at hiding.  He did get employment keeping sailors in line and his skill at swimming are strength made sure he was never without work; but the jobs that he wanted and that would pay were not oft available.

For a time, he hired on to fight the Grean fleet allied with Iott, but that went poorly for all ships involved.  He managed to survive and ended up in Layreadia, after a brief stint trying to work for the Quan Yin Horarians, which ended poorly.  The Layreadians appreciated his work for years, and Laz was happy to be doing good work and sailing the southern seas.

On leave in 816, the lizardfolk was enjoying time in the city of Ermaneo, known for its entertainment and independence.  A bard he had been enjoying for week at the Low Bar was playing and the spicy shredded meat that he preferred was available in large quantities that evening.  But thunder and lightning were interrupting his time and a one eyed human kept beating him at dice.

Fighter 2 / Ranger 4 / Shock Trooper 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 07, 2021, 12:39:14 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 11:51:40 AM

Emmerick Blackhammer

The oft troubled cleric of Falan had lived a tormented life and although respite was had for moments, the time after the severing was difficult as well.  Hoping to be shielded at the college from the hardest of events, torment came in many forms.  New undead entities that arose haunted his dreams.  Torment by Gmax invaded his thoughts as well.  Several times, he would be asked to aid against the undead, but he found it very difficult to leave and not be driven mad by temptation.

When the plagues arrived, life was even more difficult.  Convinced that any one would claim him and turn him undead, especially after word of the entity Meril came to light, he interacted less.  His classes were highly sought after for the insight into the madness of undeath.  Conspiracy theorists always sought his opinion: were the giants going to invade the kingdom from the north, was Yellowia going to assassinate the king and claim the throne, would the melting glacier flood the kingdom, would the death of fire bring a new ice age in which the chosen would rule, would Habastly and Lakius merge now that they faiths were similar, would the rarely seen Icefian eagle repopulate and take control of the skies, or would they go extinct and mean doom for all creatures of Icefia, would Thom defect to Iott and complete his family's plan for world domination, would all the planes be cut off from Habololy, would the wizards three turn to Iott's side, would the scaled elven genocide be completed, would Amatom conquer Layreadia and the new college in Ekarude, would magic ever be the same!!!

Nearly a Hermit, elderly and have mad by 816, the actions of the Counsil that year were the final straw.  He was found dead in his room at the college.

Yikes

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 07, 2021, 12:40:11 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 12:17:04 PM

Bandrig Granitebreaker

Having been jailed for crimes in Pacyr, ones that he claims were ridiculous, his term ended, but bad luck would follow as it often does for one time criminals.  His efforts to reach other lands and travel were thwarted by the onset of Iott's reign.  Although he found employment working as he had been, but now for Iott and Hertoplowis, as Pacyr had closed its doors to nearly everyone thanks for the doom speaking president.

The amount of profit to be made getting items between the two nations was astounding.  Hertoplowis had immediately rejected Iott and the two fought as they had many times before.  Seeing opportunity, Bandrig was able to get prohibited items from place to place.  Never weapons or items of war, but comfort things such as pipeweed that just made people feel good for a time.

This went on until he was betrayed by a buyer in Hertoplowis.  Religious fanatics of Everentual dragged him to prison.  On trumped up charges he was deemed a spy of Iott and hung.

Double Yikes!!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 07, 2021, 03:26:11 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 11:20:06 AM

The destruction of Merid

Overcome with grief and about to expire, and told mentally by Ri, Dovin began to drag the others as far away as possible, calling out for the pack to do the same.  Saren, finishing the last of the undead fought his way towards Merid, but stopped short after a command from Ri, turning instead to save those around.  As Olokas pinned the wretched being down with his sword, his skin being eaten away by rot, Ri latched on the the head of the creature, tentacles driving into its brain.  Agonizing moments later, Ri torn the head from Merid and the explosion of filth covered the area.

It was an hour later when Dovin, Saren and the others were able to get close enough to see what was left.  Nothing was recognizable in the slime and dust except for the sword and armor of Olokas.  No undead remained in the area.  Merid's presence was banished from Habololy.

Eating the brain of a Quasi deity has to be the top way for a mindflayer to go out.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 03:35:43 PM

Tynan Swiftwater (Hero, Mounted)

With the ascension of The Collector to the Counsil, Ty became more powerful than he would have dreamed.  The herald of The Collector was now tasked with finding items of magic and collecting them.  With a religion at his back and new found authority, The Collector and therefore Ty became a force.

For years, his notoriety and infamy grew.  Traveling swiftly on his enhanced steed Hero, Ty made it to all corners of the main continent and later the civilized world.  Careful to not bite off more than he could chew, Ty claimed small prizes to start.  As Iott's reign began, the task became harder.  The Iottians refused to give up any items, and their enemies clung harder to them, desperate for a counter to the wizards.  But Ty did not relent.  Turning more to snatch and grab rather than confrontation, he was able to spirit away with notable items.  Halfling weapons, Orcish pottery, Elven arrows, potions galore, and a strange talking raven construct were among the things he collected.

With the destruction of the circle, which Ty was better informed of than most, his task became harder.  Magic items became harder to construct and their value increased.  That was somewhat balanced by the increase in clerics and faithful of The Collector.  For a decade more, Ty traveled and procured items.  His mission did begin to add trade.  Telling of new routes the Collector had found and offering to settle disputes of commerce.  It was a dangerous mission.

In 805, Ty was traveling through Loahk, a place where he had never stopped to collect anything since there was never anything worth collecting.  He traveled with a merchant band heading for Undrile and the Market of One Hundred Nations.  The band was friendly and seemed happy than people from most places Ty went those days.  Arriving at the market, Ty went his separate way.  Later that day, the merchants of Loahk came to find him, pleading for his help.  They were being swindled.  Ty went to settle the dispute and came upon a band of brightly dressed freaks, who he believed were from a circus.  It did not take long for Ty to figure out that they had indeed cheated the merchants.  He began negotiations and was well on his way to settling another.

A flash, a tumble, and a rope later, Ty was in bad straights.  "Pop him open and lets see what treasurers come out!"  The merchants fled and the freaks, who were more powerful that Ty could have dreamed went to work.  Ty woke up in a swirling place of magic, happy as he has ever been, surrounded by horses of many colors.  Croaking echoed in his head.

The freaks enjoyed their treasures for only a short time, but within a few months, they were all dead having never seen their killer.

Rogue 5 / Fighter 2 / Lighthorseman 7

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 03:58:18 PM

Ikraam (Malchia, Tyrogatore)

The life of a cleric of Dedestroyt was not easy at any time.  Years of travel, looking for those that violate the natural order, hated by many, loved by none.  From Undrile to Upgriv, Megenthia and Jaswap, the Great Forest and the desert; Ikraam traveled and spread the justice of Dedestroyt.  He followed leads and tracked down those reported to have been brought back.  Spending time with the gnolls, he befriended their clerics of Dedestroyt, of which there were many.

When Iott began its reign, the faithful of Dedestroyt were displeased.  The wizards cheated death constantly without morality or consequence.  Ikraam called out for their defeat, as did his fellow clerics, but few heeded the call, until Gneon, the Deliverer from Iottian Tyranny approached.  Enlisting clerics of Everentual, Celetal, Dedestroy and other into his plan, Gneon told them of a coordinated effort to defeat Iott in one fell swoop.

Set for a summer day in 796, forces around the world coordinated their attack, with a great deal of divine and technological assistance.  Ikraam joined the forefront of the assault on Iott itself.  When the hour hit, he and his fellow clerics, including the renowned Stalker of the Dead Mortimer Lede stormed the beaches, accompanied by a literal storm.  The attack was fierce, the battle long.  The Iottians controlled the battle from the 2nd moment.  The assault failed, but the mission that was unknown in life to the clerics succeeded.  Hundreds of clerics died on the beach, but only the clerics of Dedestroyt went happily to their lord's realm.

Cleric 11

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 07, 2021, 04:01:24 PM

Quote from: Windblade on January 07, 2021, 03:26:11 PM

Eating the brain of a Quasi deity has to be the top way for a mindflayer to go out.

I thought the same thing

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 04:04:36 PM

Maybe a death pool, either number or ways the PCs died would be in order.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 04:18:49 PM

Saladien Greenleaf (Windblade, Great Forest)

Following his time in the Great Forest, first training with the weathersingers and then trying to stop them, Saladien was a lost soul.  Many of those that he had traveled with, trained with, and befriended were gone or changed too much.

He remained in the forest, living as peacefully as he could.  It grew more and more difficult as fewer fey stayed neutral.  As the forces on both sides slowly controlled more of the villages, he had fewer places that felt safe.  The last straw was when the stones broke.  The forest buzzed with rumors and danger.  Saladien did not know what to do, so deeper he hid.  Again, he thought he had found a safe place, no longer traveling to any other villages, quietly living with a small group of fey.

Years passed, and a new threat began to emerge.  Rumors among the fey that a new power was emerging in the forest.  One that still had access to the most powerful arcane magics.  One that offered the fey a new choice.  Saladien did not trust it.  Before the new power came to town, he fled again.  This time, to a place he knew would be safe, where he could hide forever if need be, which had been the least effected by the current turmoil; Amansky.

And there he stayed.

Bard 4 / Sorcerer 1 / Weathersinger 8

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 07, 2021, 04:36:04 PM

Veronica (Zunder, Seas)

The seamstress extraordinaire spent years on ship peddling her wears, earning enough coin to live comfortable in Port Talp.  As the troubles began, she thought better of it.  Port Talp was a city that would surely get involved in these affairs.  A woman of her means needn't be troubled by such things.  So she sailed elsewhere, to Magenthia.  There was money to be made there, but life a hot and hard.

As the plagues began, she understood the danger of unchecked disease.  With fewer spells to prevent the spread, she took action.  Taking her belongings, and leaving some behind, she looked for a way out of the city.  The first ship out was a Horarian ship.  No matter it was Yinites, it was certainly better.

After two months at sea and ports, Veronica made it to the Horarian islands.  She was welcomed personally by Nimi'ona Joshinohaha.  A peace and comfort came over her and Veroncia was happy to be there.  It took some time for her to find her place, but she was a talented seamstress.  The money was not a lot, but not a lot was needed in Hiyokuna Machi.  She was even able to take up her other past time, since almost no others here were interested.

Veronica was surprised that everyone was so tepid and prudish.  She expected some of that, but to the extent it was confounding.  She gave birth nine months later, having wished she spent more time learning the language and religion.  As luck would have it, she discovered she was good at something else.  By 816, her brood would number enough to crew a fair size fishing boat when they were older.

Rogue 4 / Crafter 2

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 08, 2021, 10:20:44 AM

Quote from: Windblade on January 07, 2021, 03:26:11 PM

Eating the brain of a Quasi deity has to be the top way for a mindflayer to go out.

That’s a good way to go for any character, really.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 08, 2021, 10:26:27 AM

Quote from: whitesword on January 07, 2021, 12:39:14 PM

Yikes

Quote from: whitesword on January 07, 2021, 12:40:11 PM

Double Yikes!!

whitesword’s characters are having a rough time here.

I really need to know what happened during the 816 Counsil meeting.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 08, 2021, 10:51:45 AM

Quote from: Windblade on January 07, 2021, 03:26:11 PM

Eating the brain of a Quasi deity has to be the top way for a mindflayer to go out.

I also like this ending because it gives more meaning to Solaris's action of redeeming a mindflayer because now this creature that he helped to redeem was an integral part of destroying a evil deity of disease.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 08, 2021, 11:07:25 AM

18hrs without a post. I’m starting to get the DT’s.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 08, 2021, 11:18:19 AM

Quote from: whitesword on January 08, 2021, 11:07:25 AM

18hrs without a post. I’m starting to get the DT’s.

My apologies, the Kingpin's Criminal Syndicate had to kidnap a bunch of civilian's from Terrorshard's Guardians of the Galaxy for four hours last night.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 08, 2021, 11:27:02 AM

Thadyus Glintock (Master Po, Icefia)

The out of time hero was at first eager to be in the new era, a place far better than the one where he lived most of his life.  But time took its toll.  Strange things began to occur and he could never put his finger on the problem.  He was left often found aiding those that he had accompanied on his journey through time.  No where to be seen during the battles at Degalas and Portet, there was first concern and eventually he began to be forgotten.  By the time of the Day of Broken Magic, he had been erased and forgotten, eliminating much of what could be known about the future from which he came.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 08, 2021, 11:39:56 AM

If it is not too much can you let us know who the player was for the PC and what campaign. For example: Wilham (Windblade, Mounted)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 08, 2021, 12:01:15 PM

Ward Butcher (Terrorshard, Palumbton)

The son of Palumbton never saw eye to eye with Koth, and when he became the defacto leader of their homeland, Ward was relegated to his simple yet important task of slaughtering animals.  He had dreams of becoming a great huntsman, but the loss of an eye ended those hopes.  He was skilled at what he did and earned a living in the family business.

Fate smiled upon him during the plagues, by which time Ward in his middle age with family and children.  Palumbton was spared many of the plagues, as it interacted little with the rest of the world, despite efforts to build a meaningful port.  It already dealt with most of life's difficulties in mundane ways and therein lay Ward's luck.  One plague that struck was that on animals, specifically goats and sheep.  In Palumbton, that plague seemed not to have an effect.  The plague didn't kill the animals in meaningful number, but it did spread from the to consumers.

A merchant from Icefia passed through the port one cold day in 809 and lingered long enough to see sheep and goats.  Shocked, he asked to buy some meat and was directed to the butcher.  The two struck up a long conversation, that started mainly over price.  By the end, the merchant, an overweight human who was a purchaser of uncommon items for another unnamed noble of Icefia; said he would return.

Months later, the merchant did return and Ward was paid a large sum to sail to Icefia, along with a shepherd that tended the animals.  Taken to the bardic college, out of his element, Ward wanted to run.  Coin kept him there and the result was four months of experiments.  Finally, a breakthrough occurred, as these things often do, by chance.  Helping in Luigi's Pantry, a specialized eatery offshoot of the main restaurant, Ward was trading tips with the head chef.  The two were butchering when the chef, who also happened to be a burly human as the nipits that had run the place had fled with Luigi some years prior, was confused by Ward's process. 

Calling in some others, they watched a few times as Ward went about his normal business.  A bardic explosion of excitement occurred and soon the college concluded something they never suspected.  The plague that had caused them to all but wipe out their herds could be avoided by a slaughtering technique that would not allow the plague to be passed to consumers.  Ward was hailed a hero, despite having done little but his normal job to earn the praise.

Returning home after a year, with contracts and wealth, he received the hero's welcome he long wanted.  He lived out the last few years of his life in comfort and peace, dying at what was a normal age in the hardscrabble town on Palumbton.

Crafter 8/Fighter 2/Ranger 2

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 08, 2021, 08:56:48 PM

Sas (Hero, Seas)

Known as the Voice of the Golden Mother, his time is spent using his vast influential powers to keep the dragons in line, to manage relations with Greenfellow and Scalehome, and to negotiate with the seafaring nations.  His arrival at any court is reason for concern.  His visits to new Iron Tower is cause for great trepidation by the residents.  His trip to the not as forgotten island reveals another Draconic Lord with which the world must deal.  His meeting with Lyla is one that none nearby can tolerate as the personal charisma each exudes is so powerful that anyone within one hundred feet collapsed from the weight of it.  The two needn't even speak to communicate their feelings to each other.

Sas and the dragons of the somewhat less unknown did not involve themselves in the Iottian reign or following war.  His effort focused on maintaining order among the dragons and trade with the only nation with which they began to regularly deal, Kathow-tio-Horari.

Shaman 16

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 08, 2021, 09:12:04 PM

Spaz (Windblade, Great Forest)

With his path to Habololy more difficult following the Beast Lands block to Habololy, Spaz travels between the two less frequently.  He continues to ferry fey that can no longer tolerate full time on the prime to the planes, for where they never return to Habololy.  Whenever he makes to the planes, he gives a report collected from his friends in the forest to the fey that once called Habololy home.  But more and more, they forget their time there.

Those that remained on Habololy, unable to draw energy from the planes and mostly unable to make the trip as Spaz can become less fey like in Spaz's eyes.  Undeterred, he bring them news and glad tidings at every visit.

His visits become more hazardous as the 9th century draws on into its 2nd decade.  The plagues that travel the world have a strange effect on the fey, and Spaz is forced to avoid towns when there is word it might be infected.  Other fey towns are drawn into the influence of a forest power neither of Scalehome or the Southern Coalition, one that Spaz looks into but can never get close enough to identify during his visits.

His last visit occurred in 812, when he was almost eaten by a pack of gnolls that were in a town he never expected to have gnolls.  Following that, he vowed to stay away from at least five years.

Fey 4 / Rogue 8

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 08, 2021, 09:32:42 PM

Shondo (Zunder, various)

Many in the forest sought to protect the fey, and Shondo was one of those.  More willing to get into the mix of things, he enspelled numerous groups of hunters or warriors to protect them.  Wugs, Gnolls, Unseelie, Orcs, Giants, whoever; were a target of his castings. 

With magic broken, Shondo found that he was still able to do things that spellcasters were not.  He suspected the reason, but never told anyone, save for Luigi.  Using this power, he was able to frighten and effect more in the forest than he otherwise would have.  For a few years, he became one of the fey's greatest defenders.  Thwarting the efforts of both Haas and Greenfellow from pinning him down, he enjoyed a life of adventure.

But his actions attracted a bad form of attention.  One day, one of his spell combinations went awry.  At first he thought nothing of it, such things happened from time to time.  But this was the one in a thousand chance that left him open, unknowingly at first, to detection.  Within minutes, he was set upon by not one, but two epic spellcasters.  He began to talk, thinking himself trapped, but to his joy, they were not allied, just coincidentally there.

One draped in swirling color and darkness, the other masked by spells of hiding and cloaking.  He got one word out, but it did not work.  Suddenly terrified, he began to cast for aid from Luigi.  Spell awful and terrifying danced over him.  The forest came alive and thoughts tormented his mind.  For the seconds seemed like eternities and he wished for it to end. 

When he awoke, the fey that cared for him never spoke of what happened.  When he would think back to the day, shivers and cold sweat would overcome him.  Comforting messages from his friends would arrive from time to time, but he would rarely see them as he convalesced in his new planar home.

Sorcerer 7 / Wild Caster 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 08, 2021, 10:07:11 PM

Looks like I'm about 40% done...  :o

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 09, 2021, 12:14:42 PM

Shimmi (Zunder, Wizards)

After a brief stint in the service of the great wizard Luigi, Shimmi studied at the bardic college and the traveled.  At first, the cities of Icefia and then the world.  Entrigued by posted of greater arcane teaching, he traveled to Iott and signed up for arcane instruction.  Used to college education, he did well.

After several years, that flew by, Shimmi graduated and got to meet the Marshall herself.  Awarding him his certification as a trained Iottian, he was granted Iottian rights.  When the fools that followed Gneon, the Mechanical Maniac, attempted to break magic, everyone suffered.  Shimmi was tasked with improving moral.  He did a fine job, moving from city to city in Iott entertaining and inspiring.  His impression of the tinker leader, as well as other leaders of the world were spot on and earned him an audience of the elite of Iott where ever he went.

On occasion, he was asked to check in on some of his former companions, such as Luigi, and he was happy to do so.  They were anxious and worried whenever he communicated, but his humor was always well received.  During the plagues, he was again called to service.  This time, Iott asked him to travel the word and bring his humor to the places where plague had hit hard.  Lifting spirits and healing with laughter, he brought Iott to the people of Habololy in its best form.

The only times he ran into trouble was when the circus was in town and thought he was trying to take their business.  On more than one occasion he had to mollify them.  Other than that, the enemies of Iott never seemed to do much to interfere him the entertainer.  After Kallark's destruction at the hand of anti-arcanists, Shimmi was recalled to Iott.  Sad that he no longer got the heal the world, but frightened of what the world would become without magic, he returned.

Bard 4/Sorcerer 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 09, 2021, 04:47:46 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 09, 2021, 12:14:42 PM

Sad that he no longer got the heal the world.

* tear....

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 09, 2021, 08:51:45 PM

Grognoth the Gentle (Malchia, Seas)

The giant of the seas spent two years sailing them before he landed in Icefia.  Curious about the homeland of Stasis, and having been told about it by his friend Roflander, Grognoth spent a few years visiting the temples and places of Stasis youth.  The time was a wonderful pilgrimage.  He met numerous knights, clerics and heroes of Stasis' faith.

As the world feel into turmoil after the Day that Broke Magic, he thought to travel back to the mountains.  At first, he hoped to go by boat, but few ships were making the trip and fewer wanted to take on a giant for it.  Grognoth was left to make the long polar walk.  Traveling north, he went into Gnarland, where he spent a year he was not expecting to spend.  The gnomes were curious and friendly.

In 798, he began the journey home.  Reaching the mountains he found Roflander.  The kingdom was in turmoil.  The threat of the Siemnewłosy, the giants of dark hair that did not accept Roflander's rule, was ever present.  Nomagrok was at war with Iott and the Dwarves of Smofarf was embroiled as well.  The Grean Republic had also sided with Iott.  Danger on all sides.

From then on, Grognoth was given the task of guardian of the northern path.  He would travel back and forth with merchant caravans to Gnarland and Icefia.  Assigned this task by Roflander, he took it seriously.  Not glorious, but important and necessary, the caravans were began more important with the disruption in magic travel and the questionable reliability of sea travel with the threat of Iott and the Grean navy.

Ninety-nine percent of the trip was uncomfortable and hard, but not dangerous.  Those other one percent of times were life threating for the entire caravan and they were thankful for Grognoth and the other defenders.  When the war ended, and the seas seemed safe again.  Grognoth returned to them.

Monk 5 / Frost Giant 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 09, 2021, 10:15:18 PM

Gabriel Hosten (Master Po, Seas)

Owner of the Redemption, he sailed the seas around Icefia as a corsair for the years that Iott began its reign.  He found a steady stream of employment in those years working for Kathow-tio-Horari.  The Yinites having split themselves off from the Shelleshe were at first bereft of ships.  The Redemption served as an escort for passenger ships for a hundred voyages.  Numerous times, in fended off a Shelleshe attack.  Gabriel and his ship were known in every Icefian port for its skill.

With the arrival of hostilities after the Day Magic Broke, Gabriel and his ship were called into service by the Icefian navy.  Charged with making it to and from Layraedia, his ship became one of the few to successfully make the voyage over the next twenty years.  The route Gabriel ran became known as the Redemption Run.  But notoriety was not the friend of such route, and on his last trip, Gabriel was nearly killed, his ship nearly destroyed.

The Redemption limped into Cape Tolya in 813.  Gabriel retired, forever wounded, but having accomplished what he had set out to do more than two decades before.  He lives in a fishing village on the coast, adopting war orphans and teaching them the about the sea.

Rogue 2 / Fighter 4 / Crafter 2 / Renowned Captain 5

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 09, 2021, 10:33:48 PM

Wignston (Windblade, Seas)

Such terrible timing for a gnome that wants to search the world.  With Iott's reign beginning, his efforts were stymied.  Travel and information became more difficult for one such as he was.  Cities became wary of him either because they were given instruction by Iott or because they feared Iott's wrath.

His misery continued unabated for more than two decades.  Accomplishing nothing, tossed from city to city, more than a few times he swore he would give up, only to be rescued by a faith in a divine presence that was his only hope during the years.  Two whole years of that time were spent convalescing.  During a visit to the city of Magenthia, Wignston caught one of the plagues.  Known as Altaemia, it destroyed vision and appetite.  If not for a kindly cleric of Quan Yin whom he never got a good look at, he would have surely perished.  When he was finally able to make his way around, she was gone.  The innkeeper told him she had been dragged away by gladiators.  Having little in the way of coin, Wignston spent another two hard years in the city earning scraps and barely surviving.

Desperate to find the cleric that had saved him, he searched for clues, but he poor vision and lack of any coin made it impossible.  He saved enough to buy passage, hoping to one day return.  More than a year at sea, sleeping in rough conditions, eating little, he ended up in the city of Ermaneo.  Able to find a job crafting and amazed at the history of this city he had never heard of, Wignston thought maybe he had fallen into some luck.  But he was still poor and friendless.  Once a week, he would go to the Low Bar and listen to the music of a skilled bard.  This particular night, the thunder and lightning made listening difficult...

Ranger 5

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 10, 2021, 09:18:07 PM

Alubrin the Purist (Whitesword, Wizards)

Having survived ever major event since the ban on creation, one of the world's oldest beings in the world had seen more activity in the past five years of his life than the previous fifty and likely more.  Those five years he had thought was enough for another century, but Lyla had others plans.  A master of arcane history, Alubrin knew what had been tried and what had not been tried.  He had met a hundred arch mages, and every ruler of Iott for centuries.  He had not seen a ruler like Lyla in five hundred years.  This intrigued him.  Her grasp of experimental magic was unmatched and what she was able to accomplished excited even him, a little.

When he returned to Habololy and saw the stones broken by fools, he was shocked as he rarely had been before.  When he learned of Iott's new roll in the world and how anarchists, tinkers, and the ungrateful were in revolt, he was disgusted.  Lyla assigned him a task upon his return to Iott: research ways the wizards of old cast powerful spells without the use of the stones.  In his years, he uncovered a few.  His idea sparked Kallark's departure.  His other ideas were shelved or put into practice, as he uncovered no fewer than five ways to power the greatest spells without the stones.

As most of his life had gone, much of the war passed Alubrin by as he studied and researched.  As he neared the midway point of his 8th century of life, he wondered if his time was about up...

Wizard 15

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 10, 2021, 09:49:50 PM

Korda (Valdis, various)

Traveling martial expert Korda quickly turned his aggression to Iott when it became clear what they were aiming to do.  Always on the look out for an Iott wizard, he stationed himself in and around his home town of Bemord and made it his goal to keep out Iottian influence.  Blessed in the mission by Father Haas, he four three years kept up his covert war.  He would tell it differently, but little action came his way.  The Iottians were very skilled and rarely allowed brute force and a hidden attack to catch them.

One day in early 796, he received word that an Iottian troop was coming through Bemord.  He readied his band and set an ambush.  The ambush would have worked, but the troop was not Iottian.  A group of gnomes and humans, posing as Iottians were looking for those that might be willing to fight.  The ruse worked and Korda and his band were recruited into a surprise assault against Iott.

Sent west, he met up with others.  Their target was the Iottians mountain base in Baenrl.  The giants had agreed to Iott's demands early in the reign.  Korda and his band, which numbered near one thousand on the day of the assault, would swarm in to the governor's palace and kill him, never evading and ignoring the giants.  After that, they would flee.  Given a token of Dedestroyt to make sure the death was permeant, Korda was confident.

All plans of the assault worked until they reached the palace.  Giants were evaded and many reached the governor.  But the governor was prepared by the time they reached him.  Even with their protections, his fire scorched them.  Every attack they landed only burned them more.  Worse for Korda, the governor was a skilled martialist.  Not a talented as Korda, but those things that would have quickly thwarted most wizards failed due to the governor's skills.

Unable to defeat him, unwilling to withdraw from a martial fight, Korda attacked until none of the others were left standings.  Some were dead, some fled, some captured.  The governor, having beaten back the attackers and burned Korda badly, stopped the fight for a moment, dropped his spells and fought Korda in the honorable way.  Korda gave his all, but there was not enough left in his burnt body and the governor defeated him, wishing him a pleasant trip to meet Tyrogatore.

Monk 5 / Emenote 8

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 11, 2021, 10:12:11 AM

Sunjata (Whitesword, various)

As it is with those that rage furiously in combat, life can be gone in an instant.  When the opportunity arose to be paid to fight a worth wild enemy, Sunjata took it.  The Iottians had a base in Port Springs, as they did in many cities.  Approached by elements in the city that opposed the Iottians, for which Sunjata had no fondness, he agreed to join an attack on their base.

Fitted with protections against spells, when the day came, he lead the charge into the breach of the wall.  To his disappointment, he was confronted not with weakling wizards or cowardly spellcasters, but summoned creatures of all types.  Protected from their attacks, he nonetheless could not push past them.  Seeing no wat forward, he through off the ward and charged into the beasts.  Inspired by his audacity, those behind him swarmed past him.

Because the beasts disappeared when destroyed, none could count how many were dispatched by Sunjata, but the tale was told in taverns and throughout Port Springs for years.

Fighter 4/ Berserker 3/ Rager 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 11, 2021, 10:57:12 AM

Gno Gnub Gregnoble (Zunder, various)

Business was very good for the gnomish entrepreneur as Iott's reign began.  The pirates were weak and Iott only brought increased order and structure.  Gno became wealthly and more important.  Port Talp grew in its influence as well.  Arsenal's ascension to the Counsil had increased the quality of his fleet.  By 795, he was on top of the world.

In 796, he was approached by Gneon, the Revolutionary and the truth of Iott was revealed to him.  Gno was torn.  Business was so good and what Iott was doing seemed reasonable and fair.  No pirates, no seas wars.  Only those that stubbornly refused had problems.  But Gneon was persuasive, and Gno feared slippery slope of control that might come.  Things that seemed to good to be true always were.

So Gno agree to help, passively.  Covertly moving pieces around the world on his ships to help Gneon.  He never asked what exactly the plan was, not knowing offered a form of safety.  Gno always made sure nothing vile or traditionally illegal was being moved, but other that that he turned a blind eye.  Without the help of his fleet, it is unlikely the plans of the Day Magic Broke would have succeeded.  Twenty ports at least owe their ability to disrupt the Iottians that day to Gno's ships.

After that day, Gno was surprised that life continued as if had for him, except even more profitably.  Magic travel was heavily curtailed.  Riches that he would not have dreamed came his way.  His fleet doubled in size over the next five years.  His company reached a height few others had.  He had even been allowed to add two airships to his fleet.  The world was his.

The rise of Kallark was an event that Gno did not think would have much an impact.  Travel for most of the world was not returned to the magical ease it had before.  But something did change.  Iott went back on the offensive, and in a way it had not before.  For ten years, their efforts was mostly diplomatic arm wrenching with the occasional demonstration of overwhelming force.  Now, all those that had acted to break magic and disrupt their rule became a target.  With magic back, but not open to everyone as it had been before, Iott charged forward.

For a few more years, Gno did very well.  Then warning signs began to appear.  To his dismay, on a windy spring day, he received a message, "You are on the list".  Over the course of the next few months, his ships burned.  Nothing he did stopped the destruction.  Asking to negotiation, threating retribution, pleading with others for help.  Even within Port Talp, he was not safe.  Several of his most valuable staff were beaten into quitting the company.  His stock rooms were robbed, his employees framed.

The ultimate insult came during an unusual dry month in the city.  Calls of fire rang out and Gno feared the worst.  He gathered his gear and ran out, to be confronted by a horrible sight.  His warehouses and socks were ablaze.  Creatures of fire danced around them gleefully.  He heard a voice, "Write a note to your family.  Write a note to the city.  Explain your mistakes.  Receive a quick end.  The alternative is a fiery death for all you love and a slow burning death for you."

Fighter 8 / Strategist 5

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 11, 2021, 11:47:59 AM

Gnelson (Zunder, Seas)

Life as a seafaring tinker who knows Gno is about was a great place to by in the early 790s.  Arsenal ascended and the shipping was easy.  Gnelson was constantly designing and crafting.  Moving from ship to ship, his skills were in demand and he was paid well for them.  He traveled where he wanted and worked on fascinating ships.  He got to see the Grean warships in all their glory and not at the end of an elemental cannon.

After the day that Magic Broke, things slowly began to change.  He received a commission working in Kathow-tio-Horari that was a but surprising for him, but it was safe and paid well.  Working with the faith of Lansin, he was bringing technology to the Horarians.  On one visit to Port Talp, he had a strange meeting with Gno.  A bit flustered and nervous, Gno was not himself.  He gave Gnelson a chest and half asked but mostly told him to take it with him back to Kathow tio Horari.  "Don't open it unless you hear from me.  Keep it safe and I will collect it later."

Paid well and happy for the intrigue, Gnelson returned to Kathow-tio-Horari, this time to the island of Eikōnokenkō.  He remained there for more than a decade.  While his time there was peaceful, it did grow boring.  He had little news from the rest of the world and few other tinkers or gnomes.  He did know that strife had befallen much of the area and that the Horarian islands offered an uncommon safe haven.  He was thankful to live there for the time.  In 815, that peace was finally broken.  A Shelleshe ship sailed near and pirates came ashore.  This had not happened to his knowledge since coming to the island.  While the Yinites were able to drive them off, Gnelson soon learned why they were there.  They were searching for the chest Gno had long ago given him.  The others on the island didn't know it, but he figured out based on what the pirates had said.

Having grown bored, knowing the war with Iott was over, and not wanting to endanger the people that had treated him so well for so long, Gnelson boarded the first ship that was leaving and took his chest with him.  He spent a long dinner with the townsfolk and held his tongue about leaving.  He tearfully watched the island fade on the horizon.  The ship, a strange one that had only been sailing for a year and named the Mistcast Original took him to the city of Ermaneo.  He settled into a place called the Low Bar, and hid the chest while he planned his next move.  This out of the way city seemed safe enough for the time...

Tinker 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 11, 2021, 02:07:28 PM

I know i'm setting a "Low Bar", but I hope someone else is tracking on these hints...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 11, 2021, 02:23:44 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 11, 2021, 02:07:28 PM

I know i'm setting a "Low Bar", but I hope someone else is tracking on these hints...

My amusement at the Easter Eggs being dropped in here is far higher than it should be.  My entertainment is a low bar.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 11, 2021, 08:07:22 PM

Robert Axeson (DMD, Constables)

Robert remained in Phiam until 795.  Brentan thinks very highly of him, valuing both his knowledge of the law and unarmed fighting skills.  As it was clear Rob would prefer to avoid any further cases with supernatural opponents (a common feeling among your fellows), and not wanting to lose your services, Brentan was selective about your assignments and in 792 appointed you as an instructor for new constables assigned to Phiam.

In 795 the High Constable, Xander Caladrian, retired, and his second in command, Adjutant Constable Stanton Corum was appointed High Constable.  Corum is a very formal man, who had more experience as an administrator than a patrolman.  He promoted Rob, and several others like him, to a working group to recommend changes to the RIC to the Lord Protector.  As the situation with Iott and the Protectorate occupied most of the government’s attention, Corum’s recommendations were accepted with little review.  The next five years did not go well, for a variety of reasons, for the RIC.  Corum created a bureaucratic mess and the RIC was perceived as less effective than it has been in a generation.

Likely this would have been the end of Rob’s career, but in 801, the High King appointed Martine Vanyar as High Constable and he in turn appointed Brentan as Adjutant.  Brentan assigned Rob to the recently established Academy, as chief unarmed combat instructor, where he served with distinction until  . . .

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 11, 2021, 08:10:36 PM

Gneetaugh (Malchia, Constables)

Gneetaugh remained in Phiam until 801.  Brentan formally took Gneetaugh on as an apprentice following the battle with the Wugs.  Though he finds your choice of weapon perplexing, he admires your decision to become a constable, as few who pursue a weapon master’s path persevere in a career that often denies them their chosen weapon. During the decade Gneetaugh advanced quickly, and in 800 won the Constables’ Armed Combat Tournament for the first time (neither Brentan nor Deidre Yarmouth, the First Deputy of Fort Pinceer, participate).

In 801, Gneetaugh was transferred to Degalas.  The far northern city had become increasingly dangerous and constables are permitted lethal arms at all times.  Gneetaugh was promoted to sergeant and served with distinction for 7 years before being transferred to Northwatch.  Northwatch is the Kingdom’s majority Ice Gnome city and in 810 Gneetaugh married and started a family.

In 812 Northwatch was besieged by an army of barbarians and Chosen of Frostine. They flew the black icicle banner of Azelec the Souless, a Chosen of Frostine Doomknight.  The siege lasted two months and the fighting was terrible.  Between starvation and disease, the inhabitants were pushed to the brink.  Just when it seemed the city would fall, the army of Gnarland arrived, commanded by Gnadine Silverstone, a Captain of the Knights of the White Sword.  The gnomes and dwarves hurled themselves against the besiegers with fury and after three days and nights of fighting the attackers withdrew.  Azelec slew Gnadine and took her head as a trophy.  Though the siege was broken, the Gnarland army was decimated and Northwatch is now very isolated, as travel is only safe by river in either direction.
For his heroics, Gneetaugh was named First Deputy of the City.  He continues to compete in preparation for the Suian.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 12, 2021, 09:59:12 AM

Jack "Falcon" (Valdis, Seas)

Seafaring marksman, the unassuming yet talented elf found life during the reign of Iott quite boring.  Life as a corsair on seas without pirates was dull.  He bounced from ship to ship, hoping to find more adventure and more coin.  Little came from his efforts.  Guardian of the Tides, Endless Treasure, Virtuoso, Ch?sananami, and the Fifth Star all proved not to be able to get into an adventure in this time.

He found useful and gainful employment on the Sel Hope, a Scaled Elven merchant ship.  A small merchant ship sailing across the northern sea, it sought to make a better life for the remnants of the scaled elven nation by bringing in supplies from around the world.  As it turns out, the pay was not gainful, but the mission pulled at the heart strings of Jack and he continued to work for the ship for two decades, becoming the spotter and Master of the Tops for the ship. 

During his time aboard, he helped them evade numerous Grean and Icefian ships.  He was often one of the crew charged with delivering good to the city, primarily Portet, since he had an unknown face.  In one such visit, he had a run in with the city's nefarious guardian and survived only when he learned the goods being delivered were actually herbs and spices.  In another visit, he was nearly press ganged into a religion while attending services.  His deftness and quick thinking barely allowed him to escape having to pick a side of Lakius.

Jack's knowledge of the goings on the in the world was limited during this time.  He knew Iott and the world were at odds, but little else.  Life on a ship in the Godsea was removed.  Even after he heard that Iott was finally at a loss for power and no longer was a threat to most of the world, the need in Portet was still large and he continued his voyages.

Ranger 5

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 12, 2021, 10:34:14 AM

Xavier Foreshot / Foreman (Hero, Seas)

A capable gunner, despite the loss of some hearing, Xavier's life was dull as Iott took the reigns in Port Talp and much of the world.  The seas were calm, the pirates non-existent.  He found employment outside the city, to the east in a large testing range.  Here, tinkers that had left the city for fear of the Iottians where going about their business of crafting and designing better clickers, specifically cannon.

With the ascension of Arsenal, they were inspired.  Xavier for years earned good coin testing the cannon.  Using his good luck, he faired better than any other tester.  Such was his reputation, that Gnettor Longbarrel, cannon master for non other than Gneon, Heir to Arsenal, visited and allowed him to be the first to test fire the Longneck 98 TowerBreaker Cannon.  It was glorious.

Things were going well and word was that the cannon would soon be moved south for the coming siege of Iott.  Xavier dreamed of launched an endless stream of cannon fire over the bay and into the wizard's towers.  He had been told he would be on the first volley.  Bets had been made with other gunners.  One day, he arrived at the testing ground, and the mood was different.  Rumor was magic had returned and no one knew what it meant.  For days, nothing happened, the cannon were silent.

They the rain began.  It was warm, which was odd.  Then it burned.  Xavier was lucky near a bunker, and dove inside while other wailed.  Screams were muddled by gurgling, the rains poured down in a torrent.  Streams appears out of no where.  Luck found its way to Xavier in the form of a SummonShatter Widemouth Cannon that was pushed by the current next to the bunker, which happened to be on high enough ground to not be flooded.  He spent minutes readying it, in case someone approached.

For ten minutes, the deluge continued.  The rain subsided and the only sounds were drips and the gentle flow of water.  The clouds were still dark overhead and a form appeared before him in an instant, forming from the water mist in the air.  Xavier swung the cannon around and fired directly at the form.  The area was covered in shot and for a moment the form splatted...only to reform moments later.

Suddenly, he couldn't breath and water was pouring out of his mouth and nose.  The form watched with a vicious smile as things went dark.

Rogue 2 / Oddsmaker 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 12, 2021, 11:35:24 AM

If anyone feels at any point the story has badly misrepresented the idea for their character, let me know, I am not opposed to altering if that's the case.  Message that request, not post please.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 12, 2021, 11:50:50 AM

Ok

- Death - 21 ( 2 pending )
- Life - 23
- Erased - 2 ( might as well be dead )
- Mortal Peril - 9 ( Low Bar, Red Sky )

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 12, 2021, 12:36:57 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 12, 2021, 11:50:50 AM

Ok

- Death - 21 ( 2 pending )
- Life - 23
- Erased - 2 ( might as well be dead )
- Mortal Peril - 9 ( Low Bar, Red Sky )

Nice. I was just doing the same thing. I came up with 58 total:

• Death = 18
• Life = 25 (includes 1 demagicked, 2 in prison and 2 on another plane)
• Erased = 2
• TBD = 13

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 12, 2021, 01:33:54 PM

796	Assualt on Baernl
797	Assualt on Grimhold
810	Merid Destroyed
811	Gneblin Assassination
812	Spaz leaves
814	Kallark was destroyed
815	Artemus returns to Plateau
815	Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar
815	Vega named chief constable
816	Undead came to Plateau (Grimhold )
816	Council Meeting
816	Red Glow on the Plateau
816	Low Bar Lightening

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 12, 2021, 01:37:43 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 12, 2021, 12:36:57 PM

Nice. I was just doing the same thing. I came up with 58 total:

• Death = 18
• Life = 25 (includes 1 demagicked, 2 in prison and 2 on another plane)
• Erased = 2
• TBD = 13

I have originally skipped the 2 from whitesword, and somehow missed Brack

I have Ty as dead.. he wasn't on another plane cause he was forced there. I might be wrong.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 12, 2021, 04:58:32 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 12, 2021, 01:33:54 PM

796	Assualt on Baernl
797	Assualt on Grimhold
810	Merid Destroyed
811	Gneblin Assassination
812	Spaz leaves
814	Kallark was destroyed
815	Artemus returns to Plateau
815	Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar
815	Vega named chief constable
816	Undead came to Plateau (Grimhold )
816	Council Meeting
816	Red Glow on the Plateau
816	Low Bar Lightening

I like this list, 25xp per item to a 4th era character of your choice when I'm done.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 12, 2021, 07:04:38 PM

Uleric Firepeak (Valdis, Constables)

Ulerik remained with the RIC for two more years before resigning to serve with the Church of Arsur’anyodel full time.  He remained in Phiam until 797 when he was sent to Cape Tolya to tend the growing number of Scaled Elven converts. The largest city of Icefia became its most difficult to police during the escalating wars with Iott and Kathow.  It became a major refugee hub, and soon after, the city most afflicted by the plagues in the Kingdom.  Accordingly, there was tremendous need for both constables and clerics.  In 801 the high cleric designated Ulerik as a chaplain for the constabulary.  The RIC was very grateful for your aid and Ulerik was awarded several commendations.

In 803, in the wake of Sutyr’s betrayal of the Counsil, the High King banned not only his cult but the church of Dresta as well.  The tolerance of Dresta’s covens, even if only in name, had long chafed the faithful of Stasis almost as much as Arsur’anyodel, and within weeks agents of both churches worked with the servants of the Kingdom to root out as many covens as they could.  In Cape Tolya, Ulerik was placed in command of this operation.

By 808 Cape Tolya was in dire straits.  Lawlessness and plague made sections of the great city so dangerous that the High Constable began a major crackdown.  Flooding the city with agents of the Ministry of Security, Knights and Constables, there were dozens of clashes with criminal groups and servants of the evil powers. During these events Ulerik was captured and tortured and along with dozens of others, would have been sacrificed to Dresta, but was rescued by Lord Arishimoto and a group of knights.  Following that experience Ulerik was transferred to the growing shrine in the rapidly expanding halfling community of Havenhollow, in the Midlands.  He was named high cleric of the large shrine in 810.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 12, 2021, 08:03:27 PM

Vasili (Zunder, Constables)

As a psion, Vasili is one of the most valued members of the Constabulary.  His services were constantly in demand and he was dispatched on numerous missions to other cities and towns between 790 and 794.  Brentan repeatedly beat back attempts by other cities, particularly Cape Tolya, to have him transferred to their command, but in 796 the new High Constable transferred him to a special investigative unit based in Messada.  While an honor to be selected, the assignment was largely a waste of his talents.  Most of the cases were crimes against wealthy merchants, primarily sophisticated fraud schemes.

Vasili’s status as a distinguished member of the RIC was a source of pride for the Aer-Gree and during his time in Messada he became a leader in their community.  As the strife with Iott and the Grean Republic increased, the Aer-Gree found themselves the subject of attacks by both Icefians and refugees who did not understand the members of the community were themselves defectors.
In 800 Vasili was involved in one of the most significant events of the war years.  A small Grean warship ran aground near Tripsea and after being towed to the harbor nearly the entire crew sought asylum.  Vasili was asked to assist in determining if they were sincere or part of a Republic plot.  His involvement was a source of controversy and many spoke out against it, but after the sailors were granted asylum they proved to be of great assistance to the Kingdom in the conflict with the Republic.

In 802 Vasili was appointed Second Deputy and Chief Investigator of Messada, one of the most prestigious positions in the Kingdom, but like his time in the special investigative unit it was often boring.  He began volunteering to assist other cities with significant investigations.  In 813 he was recruited by Udarin Thate, now First Deputy of Phiam, on a classified assignment.  The two of them disappeared on the Day of Magic and have not been seen since.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 12, 2021, 08:52:14 PM

From time to time I am going to re-post a character I've already done because I forgot something or thought of something to add or had input from a player.  If I re-post I will delete the original to avoid confusion.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 12, 2021, 09:14:06 PM

Roland Kenai (Whitesword, Tyrogatore)

During the three days of the siege of Portet, prior to the destruction of the High Temple, Roland found himself pursued by agents of Marius, both mortal and undead.  He survived but was too weak to participate in the battle against Iscens.  As he has not liked what he had seen from the temple of Han-Sui, and there is no real presence of Tyrogatore’s faithful in the city, he was forced to join the residents of the city who sought shelter with the army.  During the weeks following the battle, Roland witnessed many crimes against the displaced people.  Some were just desperate people seeking to improve their situation but most were perpetrated by the
criminal groups that had taken root in the city.  Knowing that the army and constables were concerned only with the safety of the residents, Roland took it upon himself to combat the crime groups.  As the situation in the city stabilized, and the army withdrew, the criminal groups became more bold; and for the next several years there was rampant crime and conflict among the organizations.  Roland exploited these conflicts, while building a public identity of a respected teacher of the warrior arts.  Given his skill, he rarely had to resort to deadly force, but more than a few truly evil offenders were found dead in the river or the harbor.   Roland had no qualms about taking the criminals’ ill-gotten gains and became wealthy.

By 794, Portet’s importance rivaled Phiam and Cape Tolya, but with a far more dangerous reputation.  Roland had established relationships with powerful people in all aspects of city life, on both sides of the law.  Of particular importance on the less than legal side were his old sailing companions and the wealthy businessman Itsuwaru Osumer.

In 797, Roland married a half-elven woman named Haela and over the next four years fathered three children. He was firmly entrenched as a prominent personage in the city and had left his vigilante ways behind. Then came the Day of Dust, and everything changed. Portet was among the first cities to experience the outbreak of the plagues and many criminal groups sought to exploit the suffering by offering medicine at exorbitant prices, or worse, pedaling spurious cures. Though Roland could afford clerical healing when his family fell ill, the callousness of the criminals caused Roland to take action again. By the end of 806 he had driven the Oi’Huta clan of the islands, the worst offenders, out of the city. They would return in the service of the masters of Greysnows and wreak terrible evil against the people of the Protectorate.

In the winter darkness of early 808, animals began to fall ill and soon after people in the villages and then the city were stricken. Even in a time of order clerics could not have offered cures to all, for too many fell ill too quickly. In accordance with the laws of the Kingdom, the clerics attempted to cure the ill children but with no success. Panic spread through the Protectorate and before the Knights and Constables could find an answer, merchants from Cape Tolya arrived claiming that the same malady had struck in the islands and that a simple tincture of sea salt and oyster shell scrapings would abate the symptoms. Many, including Roland, were suspicious and urged patience, but in the face of the pestilence few listened. For three days after the cures were distributed all seemed well, but on the fourth day the city awoke to horror. Nearly a third of the city had perished. They died choking on the dust of their desiccated bodies. The clerics of Tfop determined that the population had been stricken with an alchemical weapon derived from lost Tinker technology. Most of the children of the city were spared as their parents took the cure first to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

Roland realized that he had walked away from his true calling. He directed his wife to spend as much of their fortune as needed to care for the children orphaned by the poison and left the city. For five years Roland accompanied a group of hunters that included Huthrim the Shamed, who had travelled the islands extensively, Yoru Shuram, the famed constable of Tripsea, his cousin Takenishi Shuram of the Guardian Temple and Vanessa Fairday, an elite sniper of the Icefian army. They were guided by Treemor Otenay, the infamous pirate, who was released on order of the High King to aid in the search. In 813, the group discovered a derelict Tinkocracy naval base and arsenal, now occupied by the Oi’Huta. The hunters slaughtered the Oi’Huta and the servants of Marius but at a cost. They left the base in ruins, flooded by the sea.

In 814, Takenishi returned Roalnd’s fighting knives to his wife. She is the headmistress of the orphanage, which is administered by clerics of all the goodly powers and watched over by the Guardians.

Psy War 2/Monk 4/Vecustan 4/Horar Assassin 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 12, 2021, 09:15:44 PM

Bryvis Elswind (Hero, Constables)

Competent spellcasters have always been the most difficult to retain in the service of the Constabulary, and as both a spellcaster and warrior, Bryvis was especially valued and sought after.  As Bryvis had made known his desire to work on high value cases, Brentan and Udarin did not stand in his way. Bryvis spent the next six years investigating the worst murders, kidnappings and other violations throughout the Kingdom.  He captured spies and saboteurs as well.  He often accompanied the Royal Marshal in hunting notorious offenders.  In 795 Bryvis captured the notorious sexual predator Gilliam, who had preyed upon women in Fort Pinceer and Cape Tolya for more than a decade.

Likely he would have continued for several more years but for the Day Magic Abandoned the Tyrants.  Though Bryvis was not so mighty a spellcaster that he was deprived of significant power, the abrupt change in magic took time to investigate, and like many casters, Bryvis took time to adjust to the new circumstances and in 797 left the Constabulary.  He journeyed to the Guardian Vale and spent a full year preparing for his new path.

Given his extensive background as an investigator, Bryvis spent the next several years rooting out slavers and kidnappers; servants of Sutyr, Dresta and Chaos.  In early 809, the wake of the horror of the Day of Dust, Bryvis was dispatched to the Plateau with Gnicodemos Batterbronze, Professor Gnero Withedways, Brundin Cyverin, the high cleric of Tfop of Icefia and Gyrus Spark a cleric of Falan and Tinker.  Though they did not find the weapon used on the Day of Dust, they did uncover a plot by the cult of Nilas’Anor.  They believed that they had thwarted the plot, and were sworn to secrecy.  In 816 their fears were renewed.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 12, 2021, 10:35:56 PM

Gansuhk (Zunder, Rogues)

The short life of a goblin is rarely a meaningful one in the eyes of the other races.  Gansuhk had some success early in his life which lead him to the clergy of Tfop and a path of alchemical knowledge.  While not the greatest intellect, he had the advantage of being able and willing to be in and around elements that most were not.  The trash, the filth, the stink, and the muck were his to do with as he wanted. 

Whether in a guild or not, Iottian rule or free city, Gansuhk's life continued happily.  Tfop had blessed him with a skill and the means to use it daily.  He had not risen above the perception of goblins as dirty pig farming dullards, but he had played that hand into a respectable, comfortable position in the city.  Year after year, coin after coin, concoction after elixir, he made his way.  He and his extended family lived in the canton of Marcel, on a large estate that continued to expand to the east as the refuse pile grew.

After the Day that Magic broke, Port Talp managed better than most.  It still maintained a strong allegiance to Iott yet had a large amount of technology.  It was not threatened by war and was needed even more due to its Port and access to alchemy, which seemed effected less than most forms of magic.  Gansuhk happily toiled along.  Port Talp began to fear attack years later as the anti-Iottian forces, lead by the Revolutionary Gneon began to win large tracks of land and population back from the Iottians.  Yet Gansuhk toiled along.

Luck struck Port Talp and before the first shell fell in the city, Kallark arose and Iott struck back.  The wealthy, healthy people of the city rejoiced.  Their patron had spared them again it seemed.  Five more years of regular living passed.  The citizens learned to live with the alterations to magic and the increased innovation of technology.  The population swelled to new heights.  Gansuhk toiled along.

The luck ran out as the plagues began to arrive.  Altaemia, Beresous, Calamoust, Dreg, Everhot, Fastobreathnomor, Gor, Haisusha, and the list continued.  Gansuhk was taken by surprise by the turmoil.  Shocked by the hardship.  He set to learning as he had not done in many years.  Research did not come very easy, but he was tireless and blessed with something no one else in the city had, a goblin's resistance.  Picking through the filth, unafraid of the sick and equipped with the gear of a pig farmer, he toiled along.

The city could not keep up with the pace of the plagues, as if it was targeted by all of them where most places had to deal with one at a time.  All of the city's resources went into combating them.  Some fled, some locked themselves away in towers and behind walls.  But the city work had to continue.  Former companion asked Gansuhk to join with them as opportunity knocked to make more than ever.  But he turned them away, and toiled along.

For three years he worked and the city improved with every new discovery.  He cleaned the allies no one wanted to or thought to clean.  He tried concoctions only he would survive.  Sleeping almost not at all and working as few other races were capable, he was personally responsible for clearing the city of half the plagues.  As the tide turned and there was light at the end of the tunnel, Gansuhk toiled less.  The effort had taken its toll and the devoted Goblin faltered.  No more could he work without sleep night after night.  No more could he pick through the much with reckless abandon.

Determined to finish his task, he toiled slowly along.  One last potion, one last street, one last discovery.  On a cold and windy night in Wavery, as the the wind blew in, Gansuhk felt the cold.  He never felt the cold.  He was knee high in garbage and couldn't move.  He was always able to push through.  He stopped and rested.  It was a long rest, a peaceful one.

Weeks later, a crowd the likes of which the city rarely saw gathered.  Although those in the city who were in the know were aware of Ganuhk, the vast majority were not.  On this day, that changed.  The renowned inspector Briomin read aloud a litany of tasks the goblin had performed.  Many of the city's elite gathered.  Members of the Kormiere family.  Ship captains and merchants lords.  On the beaches there were lined the fishers.  For days before, the bards had let the people know what the goblin had done.  The event was so well coordinated that some expected only some mastermind could have pulled it off and many feared that some great heist or attack would take place.

But it did not.  Beloi the city's prominent bard sang out an ode.  Beverly lit the sky with glorious lights.  The giant gatori Hazard appeared and carried a boat out to the harbor with Gansuhk's body aboard.  As was tradition in Port Talp, and for not the only time in the hard years, in the center of the harbor was placed a hero of the city.  The event culminated with the appearance of the the not often seen but well known Claude Greymander.

"Tfop blesses the underdog, those that were not born for glory.  A salute to lowly Gansuhk, who today has risen above us all."

With a flash of bronze filled the sky with a blur and a streak of lightning came down.  The boat was engulfed in flame of all colors, igniting a hundred potions that had packed the little boat.  Children cheered with amazement, and only the truly unimaginative feared what they realized had just appeared above their city.

The city would continued to be plagued for years, but never again with same ferocity.

Cleric 3 / Tinker 1 / Alchemist 9

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 12, 2021, 10:55:52 PM

Vincent (Windblade, Rogues)

When the city is wealthy and there are no problems, life as a thief is very profitable.  Vincent continued his time as part of the guild with no name, occasionally striking out on his own.  But it didn't matter what he was doing, there was so much to be had that it was easy, as long as one didn't step in the way of the Iottians.

Vincent did not make that mistake and he lived a life of pleasure and luxury for fifteen years.  Evading the requests to join one side or the other, never leaving the city and the threats that might bring.  With more than a million inhabitants and visitors arriving all the time, the was no end to entertainment.

While he always hoped for the big score, plans for breaking into the bank never came to fruition.  But it was hard to be too motivated when coin was easy to come by elsewhere.  One day, he thought his luck was just continuing as he walked into a three story home's open window.  He knew that silver jewelry a mile long was held by this family, and they had left the window open.  Anyone who didn't who spells well, as he did, didn't realize how hard it was now to keep enchantments protecting your home as once you could.

Amusement turned to dread as he crept into the bedroom and saw the grim mask of death of the sickened faces of the people there. Dreg, the orcish named plague that attacked your skin.  Frozen for a moment Vincent paid dearly.  The man lurched forward and barked at him to get out, Vincent fled, but not in time.

Worried he would be found out and imprisoned if he went to the legal places, he went to you usual haunts for aid with the disease, but they turned him quickly away.  Old 'friends' scared him off and forced him from the city.  Not able to retrieve his wealth, and quickly weakening, Vincent didn't make it far from Port Talp.

Rogue 5 / Wizard 7

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 13, 2021, 09:05:17 AM

overall, 63 stories
 - if your optimistic 42 have lived ( all the unknown live, + erased), that 66%
 - if your pessimistic, 36 have  died ( all the unknown die, + erased ), that's 57%


with Veronica's work, might end out as a net positive.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 13, 2021, 10:14:23 AM

Quote from: Zunder on January 13, 2021, 09:05:17 AM

overall, 63 stories
 - if your optimistic 42 have lived ( all the unknown live, + erased), that 66%
 - if your pessimistic, 36 have  died ( all the unknown die, + erased ), that's 57%

with Veronica's work, might end out as a net positive.

I suspect the storm of red death that looms in the background will be the end of many of the survivors.  I actually find it interesting that many of the PC's have had children written into their storylines.  I suppose we'll pass on all our headaches to our offspring in the new era. 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 13, 2021, 12:02:43 PM

Remy (Terrorshard, Rogues)

Wealthy, successful, yet with unfinished business, Remy took a break from work for a bit after returning to the city and his run in with Iott, Borkondof and the Relic Hunter of Icefia.  When he returned to the Guild with No Name, he went back to his usual missions.  Intimidation, shake downs, it was easy. 

He received word one day that his presence was requested by someone who wished to hire him.  Always interested in potential work, and having the source vetted by the guild, he met with an Iottian agent.  The man looked no different than all of the Iottians that were part of their security apparatus Remy had seen in the city before.  He introduced himself and noted that he had met Remy before in their unsuccessful effort to secure the weapon City Cleaver.

The man said he was putting together a team to work for Iott and he would like Remy to join.  The pay was substantial.  Remy agreed, and even though the Iottian refused to consider any other guild members, he did grant Remy one additional request, to be completed after Remy had successfully fulfilled the Iottian mission.

Days later, having said only a few goodbyes, Remy teleported away.  Training for more than a year before meeting his team, Remy became a more dangerous force than ever before.  Adorned with items of potent magic, he was able to subdue even unshakable knights with the force of his will.  "Kneel before Remy."  Training complete, he met the rest of his squad.  As was the Iottian way, everyone had some arcane talent.  Strangely, none were Iottian, although Remy did not learn that for months.

A Grean elementalist and water combat expert, a human armored caster, a blackbattle warlock, a Amatine gnome crossbow specialist, an elven draconic sorcerer, a Sandoo shadow caster, and their leader a Horarian assassin named Maleek.  He named them: Shino Yattsuno Tsu, which Remy came to learn meant something along the lines of the Eight Means to Magically die.  He smiled at the fear the name must invoke.

They lived in luxury when not working.  The best Iott had to offer was made available to them.  They lived on an estate, not in the cities, so as to maintain their covert status.  They had few missions, perhaps one every four months.  Teleporting in and teleporting out in under ten minutes was the order.  Only plans that could be completed in that time would be approved by their handler.  No children, no Iottian citizens.  Capture was preferable to execution.  Remy's talent often made capture a possibility.  In the first two years, it was only a mission to Icefia that resulted in death as the stubborn man would not yield.  He was made to look like he had fallen ill to a rare disease.

After the barbaric allies of Gneon the Loon of the Plateau broke magic, Shino Yattsuno Tsu did nothing for nearly a year.  It was a boring time.  There was a lot of fighting, and on two occasions one of the group had to be brought back from the dead after a duel went too far.  Remy amused himself with the prisoners they had kept.

A year after the day, their missions came quickly.  They were now to go into the world and travel, receiving missions via sending and waiting after one was complete, which could take weeks.  From Yellowia to Loahk, then from Hertoplowis to the Great Forest, and through the Destroytian Peninsula.  Their targets were organizers and planners.  Death was now the order.  Remy left fear where ever he went, the others left their own marks.  Faster than any other group, they learned the new ways of magic.

When Kallark rose to power, the missions changed again.  Teleporting again, Shino Yattsuno Tsu was the magic missile in the back when the fireball in the face was not appropriate.  More than once, the target was shocked when they appeared to circumvent protections that were in place.  They came to understand that not being Iottian was an advantage they had for which some targets had not prepared.

When the plagues came, they slowed their missions.  The whole world seemed to slow.  More caution was taken and some of them members, now wealthy and weary, did not take assignments with as much vigor.  None had yet perished and they thought themselves invincible. In 809, they were assigned their most difficult mission, an incursion into Amansky.

Months of planning went into it.  The jungle nation had fared better than any other since the reign of Iott began.  Its power was unknown.  It had refused every parley and inquiry from Iott, but it had also not given aid to its enemies.  But it was a safe haven, and Iott was certain being used by its enemies as cover to hide.

It became known in Amansky as Le Settimane Del Terrore, but because of the private ways of the nation, it was not well known elsewhere.  For weeks Shino Yattsuno Tsu roamed the nation.    When the came across foreigners, they dealt with them.  When the came across Amanskites, they terrified them.  No agents of the nation could deal with them.  They were unchecked, unstoppable.  When they completed their assignment, they returned to Iott. 

Remy grew weary of the life in Iott, and too much time with the same seven people wore on him.  The feelings were mutual.  By 812, Shino Yattsuno Tsu demanded an audience with Lyla.  It was a demand they could not refuse.  The beast Iott had created was matched by few powers in Iott.  Only Lyla was able to convince them on one final mission.  One they would never complete.  Kill Re'Alpf, decades long thorn in the side of Iott quest for order.

When Kallark died, they had not completed their mission, but not through lack of trying.  Shino Yattsuno Tsu left Iott.  They had all the skill and wealth of Iott.  Now they set their own mission.  Now they had no masters. 

Fighter 4 / Bard 7 / Lamdelcrante 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 13, 2021, 12:57:43 PM

One Rouge - hero of the city
One Rouge - asshat of Iott
One Rouge - doomed by greed!


I have high hopes for the others..

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 13, 2021, 01:21:09 PM

That was a really long one.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 13, 2021, 05:44:58 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 13, 2021, 12:57:43 PM

One Rouge - asshat of Iott

Hysterical.

This little rogue went to Iott, this little rogue saved the day, this little rogue got greedy, this little rogue...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 13, 2021, 08:54:02 PM

43 left...65% done?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 14, 2021, 10:33:53 AM

Ayva (Windblade, Rogues)

The reign of Iott was a safe and profitable time for the Kormiere family member.  Her shop flourished and her contacts did not get her into trouble.  After the Day that Magic Broke, her shop was just as busy as it was before that day.  Although things were a little more tense as some expected Iott to fall and Port Talp to face retribution, those things did not occur.

Ayva bought and sold, traded and bartered.  It was very entertaining.  She married and had a child and then a second, but mainly because the family expected it.  She kept control of her business and her husband had little say, he was happy to be in a wealthy family.  In that time, she continued to write for the local papers as she had been for years under the pseudonym Gabriele Van Buren. 

More than fifteen years had passed at her shop when the plagues began to emerge.  Wasting no time, she closed the shop, collected her savings and fled the city to the Kormiere estates.  There she lived for a decade before returning to the city.  In that time, she would occasionally sneak in and take notes.  She had her contacts send her messages and did what she could for them if they asked while away.  She continued to write for the The Talpan, although her advice was somewhat limited now that she was not in the city.  After a few years, she allowed some of her trusted employees to reopen the shop.

During those years, he trusted bodyguard went totally deaf and she sent a good deal of time and money finding ways to return his hearing.  Reaching out to the twins, she was able to procure a psionic item that allowed the dwarf to see sounds.

Noble 8 / Tinker 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 14, 2021, 11:08:02 AM

Tragona and Tragorum (Valdis, Rogues)

The twins managed their businesses well during the reign of Iott.  Weaving in and out of the guild with no name for fifteen years.  Smuggling was profitable.  Times were easy in Port Talp and they worked only a little to maintain their lifestyle.

When the plagues came, things grew challenging.  There was little money to bilk from the wealthy, who hid.  The poor were desperate, but the schemes of the past were less tolerated and even the twins sometimes felt a twinge of guilt as the sick begged for aid.  Looking to bring about a little good karma and hoping to get the city back to a place where they could profit again, the twins made the decision to do something.

Entertaining and educating, they became minor celebrities in the cantons where they worked.  Working their connection, they convinced the trash collectors to visit these places a but more often.  Their efforts paid dividends and even lead some of the other guilds to follow suit.  "A dead city is not good for business."

They did not escape the outbreaks and two years into their efforts, Tragorum grew sick.  The diagnosis was Calamoust, which weakened the body until the heart did not have the energy to beat.  Tragona did nothing but care for his brother for the next three years.  Living off of their collected wealth, they survived.  Thankful residents delivered food and items for them despite the risk.  Most survived three months, but with Tragorum's strength and his brother's skill, they were able to endure.

By the time they got back into business, the city was moving again.  They joined the guild again and started to rebuild.

Psion 4 / Rogue 4

Bard 6 / Rogue 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 14, 2021, 11:29:51 AM

Byron Bridgewarden Mountainmagic (Terrorshard, Wizards)

The templar of Smofarf was incredibly busy after his return to Habololy on the Day that Magic was Broken.  Returning to the mountains, having accomplished his mission of returning Montaron, he was put to work.  The kingdom anticipated war.  In the years of Iott's reign so far, no battle had not gone the way of the wizards.  The Dwarven Kingdom, which had allied with Iott, was called upon to keep their long time enemies in Nomagok in check.  For five years, that had been easy.

On that fateful day, when Smofarf wept and the kingdom cried out in pain, Nomagrok had thrown itself against as many cities as possible.  They were suicide missions, they didn't capture anything meaningful, and the king and his advisors quickly realized there was something else going on, but it did not matter.  The distraction needed only a brief time.  Now the kingdom needed to prepare for a full scale war.

Byron was set to defend his clan's mountain homes.  For three years, they prepared and waited.  The attacks did not come.  Some places in the kingdom were challenged, but the seat of power, the Mountainmagic clan homes, were left untouched.  Strategy was afoot.  Other clans, who had often been less inclined than the Mountainmagic to side with Iott, were the ones suffering from the attacks.  Divisions in the kingdom became larger.

In 800, Byron was sent out to protect the nobles who were going to the other clans to convince them of the right path, the one that stayed with Iott.  His job became bodyguard and his shield got far more use than his ax.  Rabble-rousers from Nomagrok riled up the crowds.  Granitebreaker clan members often refused to attend the meetings.  A year later, things became more complex.

Kallark's ascension split the kingdom further.  Byron had enough.  He would no longer fight fellow dwarves of the kingdom, even just to subdue them.  He refused missions from the government and listened only to the clergy of Smofarf, which grew apart after Kallark's rise.

For the next fifteen years, he traveled the String Mountains, inspecting and defending the temples of Smofarf.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 14, 2021, 12:24:51 PM

Profit (Malchia, Rogues)

The ascension of the Collector changed Profit's life.  He was now one of the most powerful devoted agents of the new deity.  He soon stopped as an active member of the guild, as the Collector called him to other things.  He would return on occasion to visit Natsu and drop an item to the Collector.  But his life became world travel as evangelist and collection agent.

Known as the Tsuglulakh Agyent among the humanoids that did not worship, he was adept and speaking to them of the new deity.  The Collector would trade what was not needed for what was.  His pockets were ever deep.  The world of magic was awesome and with the Collector's help, you can be part of it.  Making magic understandable to even the uneducated.  Unlocking sorcerous powers in those that had never suspected.  Profit the prophet he was called by those that listened.

All that filled his days was finding, collecting, and converting.  More joy would be hard to find.  Oblivious the war and political struggles, Profit occasionally stumbled into a fight that he quickly avoided.  He was vaguely aware that the clerics of Han~Sui were after him.  One chased him all over the continent, and Profit would toy with him.

Returning to Borkondof, he had the honor of gaining an audience with Harrl the Furious.  The bugbear leading, who had recently promised the religion of Quan Yin a temple in his lands for every one hundred pups he sired was looking for more.  Profit disguised himself, just in case Harrl had a incredible memory for a bugbear.  Profit told him of his lord and Harrl hair stood on end, his eyes narrowed.  "If your lord returns to me my legacy, I will build him a temple that reaches the heavens!  I will bow before him every day!  I will take claim all the magic of Yellowia for him!  All of the wretches that call me lord will pray to him!  Do this and I will make you master of all kobalds for as long as you live!"

As luck would have it, Profit knew just where Harrl's legacy was...

Sorcerer 9 / Arcane Crafter 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 14, 2021, 12:52:59 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 14, 2021, 12:24:51 PM

Profit (Malchia, Rogues)

As luck would have it, Profit knew just where Harrl's legacy was...

This is awesome.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 14, 2021, 01:53:42 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 14, 2021, 12:24:51 PM

Profit (Malchia, Rogues)

The bugbear leading, who had recently promised the religion of Quan Yin a temple in his lands for every one hundred pups he sired

*phew..  Veronika chose wisely

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 14, 2021, 02:38:16 PM

And did Harrl the Bright change his handle to Harrl the Furious because we stole his sword?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 14, 2021, 03:13:08 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 14, 2021, 02:38:16 PM

And did Harrl the Bright change his handle to Harrl the Furious because we stole his sword?

Well, it wasn't because he was not getting any

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 14, 2021, 10:57:37 PM

Schurke (Malchia, Rogues)

Only a few year had brought the ingenious Kobald to the height of his ambition.  Master of a guild that had gained notoriety and wealth without becoming targeting by the law or powerful organizations.  After their success of the Borkondof job, he laid low for a while.  The guild continued to be active, but on low key activities.  The other top agents, those who had started the guild at his side, took time to enjoy their spoils.

When business began to pick up, Schurke quickly learned that it was best to be on the side of Iott.  Their detections too good, their agents to powerful.  Only business that would not draw their ire was to be completed by the guild.  This meant that some of the members went off guild time, but that was fine.  The guild with no name went on earning.

As the years moved along, Schurke found that he had to spend time requiting and training.  Lured away by better offers and divine intervention, member after member left.  Plagues arrived and helped business a great deal, when he could keep members alive.  Some fell ill, others found a higher calling, and some fled for safer pastures.  By 814, he was left with only Esme from the crew that had pulled off that most successful of heists in 790. And then suddenly, even she was taken.  Schurke knew who had done it, thought about reprisals, but realized she had aged out of her usefulness.

So in 815, in a world where Iott was back to being in the place it was before the appearance of Marshall Lyla, with magic different than ever before, Schurke began to collect new members to a guild.  This new guild would rise from the ashes of the old one, mysterious taking out the remaining members of the guild with no name.  It would be free from connections, debts, and warrants.  Schurke would not be its head, he would just be a lackey, just a lowly Kobald begging at the feat of some great mastermind.

Rogue 6 / Crime Lord 9

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 15, 2021, 10:23:59 AM

Currently SM is the loser, with both of his characters ending in death. ( though on was in retirement ) ( 100%)
WM: 1 of 2 (50%)
WhiteSword: 3 of 7 (42%)
Windblade: 5 of 14 ( 1 erasure ) (42%)
Po: 2 of 5 - (1 erased) (40%)
Terror: 2 of 5 (40%)
Valdis: 3 of 8 (37%)
Malchia: 2 of 8 (25%)
Hero: 2 of 9 ( 22%)
Zunder: 2 of 10 ( 1 exiled/dead) (20%)


I'm expecting to catch up...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 15, 2021, 10:37:35 AM

setting death rate


- wizards 1/4 - 25%
- Tyrogatore 2/2 - 100%
- String Mountains 1/5 - 20%
- Seas 1/10 - 10%
- Rouges 2/9 - 22%
- Port Springs 1/3 - 33%
- Plateau 4/13  - 30%
- Palumbton 1/1 - 100%
- Pacyr 2/3 - 66%
- Mounted 2/2 - 100%
- Icefea 2/3 - 66%
- Great Forrest 0/2 - 0%
- Falan 1/1 - 100%
- Constables 0/5 - 0%
- Various 3/8 - 37%

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 15, 2021, 10:58:43 AM

Quote from: Zunder on January 15, 2021, 10:23:59 AM

Currently SM is the loser, with both of his characters ending in death. ( though on was in retirement ) ( 100%)
WM: 1 of 2 (50%)
WhiteSword: 3 of 7 (42%)
Windblade: 5 of 14 ( 1 erasure ) (42%)
Po: 2 of 5 - (1 erased) (40%)
Terror: 2 of 5 (40%)
Valdis: 3 of 8 (37%)
Malchia: 2 of 8 (25%)
Hero: 2 of 9 ( 22%)
Zunder: 2 of 10 ( 1 exiled/dead) (20%)


I'm expecting to catch up...

XP will be awarded for this helpful data.  I had not broken it down in these ways yet.  Lets me know who I've been too lenient on...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 15, 2021, 11:00:17 AM

Quote from: Zunder on January 15, 2021, 10:37:35 AM

setting death rate


- wizards 1/4 - 25%
- Tyrogatore 2/2 - 100%
- String Mountains 1/5 - 20%
- Seas 1/10 - 10%
- Rouges 2/9 - 22%
- Port Springs 1/3 - 33%
- Plateau 4/13  - 30%
- Palumbton 1/1 - 100%
- Pacyr 2/3 - 66%
- Mounted 2/2 - 100%
- Icefea 2/3 - 66%
- Great Forrest 0/2 - 0%
- Falan 1/1 - 100%
- Constables 0/5 - 0%
- Various 3/8 - 37%

This I had no idea on, at least with by player that's how I have them grouped in my chart.  Interested, and will get more so...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 15, 2021, 12:13:28 PM

Natsu (Hero, Rogues)

To be the high cleric of a newly commissioned deity of the Counsil is a busy job.  To add on to that being proprietor of a bustling establishment for magic items which is also a temple, and then a member of a well performing guild made Natsu in demand and always on the move.  At times, those that knew him better than most would have sworn that he was in two places at once.  Truth be known, Natsu's research and magical ingenuity allowed him to do things few others even inside Iott would have conceived.

The years between becoming high cleric and the Day Magic was Broken were incredible for Natsu.  Everything worked.  Business expanded.  He was visited by high clerics from around the world.  Hothmur Mountainmagic, in a grand event in 792, visited Port Talp to greet Natsu.  He sought to strength the ties of magic that bind spellcasters to the world.  Not long after, Keifer Griffonbane, several years before his death, visited to convince Natsu that Iott was evil and that the Collector should not join the forces of arcana, but the forces of freedom.  A dozen times, Natsu was visited by Valen Tracenkall, every time in a different form before revealing himself and praising the change the Collector was bringing to the world.  Captain Ekai Makomi visited on a diplomatic mission and warned Natsu not to have the new religion encroach on the trade of the sea.

The most challenging visits were by the clergy of Tfop, which politely suggested placing the high temple not in the holy city of their lord.  Natsu was obliged to agree and spent several years looking for a new location, which would be the hidden vault where the Collector's treasures were stored.

Natsu set the standards for the new religion in this time, getting help from the many high clerics that visited.  Times, locations, amount and style of worship were all his to make.  He also decided to make the official name of the deity Korekutā, a so much better sounding version of his lord's name from his native Horarian.  Common human privilege led them to name everything, and even after the proclamation, many still used the name Collector.

When magic changed, the religion of Korekuta found a greater importance.  Natsu and the other clerics understood magic in a way few others did, especially as it applied to magical items.  Exchanging items that worked for items that failed to do what they once did garnered the religion tremendous wealth.  International trade was hurt by the failing magic, and Natsu leaped on the chance to take improve things in the name of his lord.

Natsu stood at the center of this burgeoning empire.  Surrounded by faithful, swimming in wealth.  Iott could do little to get in his way and he could ignore them at his leisure, a position almost no others had.  Then, Kallark ascended.  Within days, Natsu was visited by Garum Mountainmagic, high cleric of Kallark.  He was given a choice, obey Iott's rules or suffer the consequences.  A negotiator far more than a fighter, Natus began to parley.  Days later, an arrangement was struck.  Natsu would not 'collect' from any Iottians, nor offer out any items Iott deemed too dangerous.  In exchange, Iott would declare the faith of Korekuta a righteous one and allow it freely to exist.

Despite that agreement, the two faiths competed over converts.  The two were 'invited' to debate at college and places of learning around the world.  The debates helped both sides as these two new dynamic religions made their cases.  The two grew to be friendly rivals.

As the years passed, Natsu continued to focus on growing the faith.  He kept out of the battles, he turned away requests to join a side.  He did what he set out to do.  When tragedy struck and the herald of the Collector was killed, it was his job to pick the next one.  Every time the obnoxious Parker or one of his ilk beat Natsu to a prize, he plotted a means to eliminate the competition.  If Kallark's faith put up a new shrine, Natsu made sure to put up a temple.

The unexpected defeat of Kallark, took Natsu by surprise.  At first he thought it would be a boon.  No one would compete for faithful now.  But he soon learned it was not.  A notable part of the would had grown to see organized magic as the enemy and did not differentiate between the faiths of Kallark, Korekuta, or even Smofarf.  Riots destroyed shrines and temples.  For two years, all he could do was cling to some of the gains he had made.

In 816, the Counsil met and Natsu hoped for relief...

Cleric 3 / Wizard 1 / Theurge 9

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 15, 2021, 07:44:53 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 14, 2021, 12:24:51 PM

Profit (Malchia, Rogues)
The bugbear leading, who had recently promised the religion of Quan Yin a temple in his lands for every one hundred pups he sired was looking for more.

Sounds like the religion of Quan Yin is pimping for a bugbear warlord.

We should do a campaign where we all play Harrl offspring.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 15, 2021, 07:49:33 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 14, 2021, 10:57:37 PM

Schurke (Malchia, Rogues)

...he would just be a lackey, just a lowly Kobald begging at the feat of some great mastermind.

Schurke/Esme would get my vote as the most creative character concept ever.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 16, 2021, 01:20:00 PM

Lorenzo "Enzo" D'val (Hero, various)

Remaining in hiding, Enzo does little in the battles after the Day Magic was Broken.  Not choosing a side and annoyed his powers have been diminished.  He travels the world, never creating a stir, never settling down.  Occasionally, someone or something peaks his interest and he spends some time investigating, but there is always danger around the corner, at the edge of his mind.

After ten years of drifting, he finds his way to Amansky.  A place for refugees, widely known for its safety and comfort.  It is peaceful.  He falls into a happy life and whatever danger that followed him no longer seems to be there.  None of his neighbors pay him much attention.  None of the people at the tavern bother him.  No one seems to have any interest in Enzo.  And then one day, they even forget that he was ever there, along with everyone else...

Sorcerer 8/ Rogue 1/ Arcane Doppel 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 16, 2021, 01:42:11 PM

Interesting can the god of lost knowledge erase everyone's  memory of an entire nation.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 16, 2021, 01:54:54 PM

Quote from: Windblade on January 16, 2021, 01:42:11 PM

Interesting can the god of lost knowledge erase everyone's  memory of an entire nation.

That was not what the post was implying, people still know the nation is there.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 16, 2021, 02:49:01 PM

The other way I took it was Enzo was forgotten by everyone

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 16, 2021, 04:34:33 PM

Quote from: Windblade on January 16, 2021, 02:49:01 PM

The other way I took it was Enzo was forgotten by everyone

Yes

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 16, 2021, 04:59:13 PM

Razk (Terrorshard, Gnolls)

The runt of the litter would have been none of the brothers' guess as to a survivor, and yet he did outlast most of his littermates.  In the time after the Great Forest Treaty in 790, Akrak and the gnolls were angry.  Their anger boiled over as their allies stayed stagnant.  With Iott on the rise and the treaty preventing much of the hostilities, Razk and the gnolls were looking for a fight.  Razk left Garlaccal and headed to the Boiling Line.  Meeting up with the rebel halfling freedom fighters, for years he performed covert attacks on the wugs and the forces of Scalehome.  It was a dirty, ugly life, but he was very good at it and outlived many of his companions.

Returning to his brothers in their part in the Breaking of the Circle, he spent time again in Garlaccal.  Razk and gnolls raiders attacked the Vass and the forces of Scalehome in the chaos that followed.  The raids diminished as magic stabilized.  Balinhost and the southern coalition cut Garlaccal from the alliance.  Akrak, no fool, ordered Razk and the raiders to end their activates for the time.  Razk sired gnolls and brooded over his inactivity.  Years passed, the gnolls stewed.

It took wuite a while for the gnolls to realize what the plagues meant.  The gnolls resisted the diseases metter than any other race.  At first, they laughed at the misfortune of others.  But it was Razk, who had in his youth trained under the diseased gnoll Kaklan and himself survived illness, that recognized the opportunity.  Going before Warlord Akrak, he explained how the plagues would be cover for the gnolls.  Like a plague themselves, Garlaccal could sweep out and infect anywhere they neared.  The gnolls grew excited.  The gathered for war.

Razk preceded any attack.  His plague ridden raiders moving in to infect and lay the groundwork.  Waiting for the plague to take hold for a month or more, the gnolls attacked as the town or city was using all its resources to combat it.  Razk would target healers in his raids, clerics of Quan Yin were prized trophies.  He raided through the Great Forest and in Loahk, even reaching Yellowia.  Intoria and the jungles of the Destroytian pennisula, but never Hertoplowis.  For four years, he raided and spread the gnoll plague.  In 810, while resting and enjoying life in Garlaccal as the packs and hordes raided elsewhere, he heard a familiar voice.  "Step out and answer for your actions!"

The one time savior of the litter and ally was outside the tent.  Grant awaited him...

Rogue 6 / Fighter 1 / Trench Runner 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 16, 2021, 05:11:15 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 16, 2021, 04:59:13 PM

Razk (Terrorshard, Gnolls)

"Step out and answer for your actions!"

The one time savior of the litter and ally was outside the tent.  Grant awaited him...

Brings me back to my youth when I would watch Kung Fu Theater on channel 48.

I can hear the music playing and the Shaw Brothers logo scrolling across the screen before the mighty brawl; complete with Grant's poorly dubbed dialogue.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 16, 2021, 08:30:46 PM

Quote from: Malchia on January 16, 2021, 05:11:15 PM

Brings me back to my youth when I would watch Kung Fu Theater on channel 48.

I can hear the music playing and the Shaw Brothers logo scrolling across the screen before the mighty brawl; complete with Grant's poorly dubbed dialogue.

I hear that gnolls speaking looks a lot like poorly dubbed english over chinese.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 16, 2021, 10:35:52 PM

Scratch (Valdis, Gnolls)

The years of Iott's reign were easier on Scratch than most.  He spent his time honed his martial skill and gaining a reputation as a cleric of Dedestroyt.  During this time, he met with the most notable clerics if the faith, Mortimur Lede and Vistrani Fell.  Mortimur was content enough to know that Scratch did not have designs on being a Stalker of the Dead.  Vistrani, the aged elf, had a different vision.  There was a tradition of martial clerics of Dedestroyt, and the Stalked told Scratch to stay on that path.  The blind cleric did, and took on the moniker Manalefu, 'clawing death' in gnoll.

In 800, he entered the Graplore, and although he did not win, he increased his reputation be his performance.  During the time of the plagues, he traveled with the gnoll horde as it raided all the lands it could reach.  From time to time, he would demonstrate his grand blessing, invoking magic in a way few could anymore.  If wizards stood in their way, he disjoined them.  He would lock areas so that their targets could not magically flee.  Worst of all, he would forever imprison those that were deemed worthy of such punishment, usually because that had cheated death on more than one occasion.  These demonstrations of power brought him to a level rivalling Akrak.  Seeing this as a threat, Akar sent Scratch back to Garlaccal.  Had he remained with the horde, they may never have been stopped.

Back at the gnoll home, he worshipped and spread the word of Dedestroyt.  He put an end to a cult outbreak of Re'Alpf.  When panic began to spread among the gnolls that they were now catching Deng, he dispelled the illusion.  When the horde was finally defeated and the high cleric of Dedestroy among the gnolls was slain, Scratch was anointed high cleric by Akrak.  Others were preferred by the warlord, but they refused to take the role, knowing it meant they would be killed.

He remained the gnolls' high cleric for the years that followed, helping to keep they safe from the many enemies that had gained during the hordes' rampages.

Cleric 7 / Monk 3 / Twilight Sentinel 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 16, 2021, 11:47:28 PM

Tarkin (Zunder, gnolls)

Rising through the ranks of pack leaders, Tarkin hunted and became better and better known in Garlaccal.  While his remaining brothers took less common paths, Tarkin was the traditional gnoll pack leader, taking after his father more than the rest.  It seemed only right that he held most of his father's items.  Ever near to Akrak, the two were a force when the horde began its rampage.

Tarkin's displays of power were far less imposing than his brother's, but he would still make great use of them, often changing his from into a greater size or one that was impenetrable.  Only once, when the horde was finally turned back in 811 at the Battle of the Jungle Revealed did unleash his full potential.  An effort that nearly killed him but engulfed a massive swath of jungle in an eruption and left the trees burning for days, allowing the horde to escape.

After returning, Tarkin shielded a broken Akrak from those that began to speak against him.  This meant attending every meeting Akrak had.  On a chill fall day, more than a year after the horde had returned, Akrak received a visit from the Voice of Scalehome.  Quickly summoning his brothers, they stood in front of Akrak in the massive tent that had been prepared for the meeting.  The voice walked in, unarmed with no guards.  Akrak, as was usual by this time paid little attention.

"I bare no ill feelings towards you sons of Arka and Hessa.  Let me speak plainly and be gone."  The brothers held their actions for a moment to hear the final words of their father's killer before ending him.  Akrak perked up, but the brothers did not notice.  "Let Razk make sure what I speak if truth, for you will not believe me otherwise."  Razk called upon his power and nodded.  Akrak barked an objection, but was not heard.  "Your mother enchanted many items for your father, as she had a different home than the forest.  He was adorned with more than any gnoll and likely anyone in the forest.  Akrak grew jealous and had Scalehome kill him.  He gave us many of the items, but kept the rest for himself.  That is why he rose so the heights he had so quickly."  Akrak had left the tent.  Razk nodded that is was all true.  "I know you still want to kill me, but if you take that time, Akrak will escape and you will be surrounded and killed.  If you go after him now..."  The voice was known for his persuasion, the brothers turned in fury and saw no Akrak.  The voice was gone when they looked back.

Racing out of the tent, they found Akrak arming himself and calling upon his guard.  "You have been charmed, stop or die!"

Razk hissed, "Speak and I will know the truth."  Akrak knew he had no escape, but he also knew the limits of the brothers' powers, knew he had a fighting chance.  "The truth is with your deaths, I will have more items than the Collector!"  He fired his bow, once Arak's and each brother felt the sting and the brawl began.

Gnolls rushed to the fight, confused as to what was happening.  Many joined in and the battle raged.  Akrak used gnoll after gnoll as cover.  He taunted the brothers as they tried to reach him.  Razk moved through the crowd as if it wasn't there and snuck up on Akrak, cutting his leg to shreds from behind.  The Warlord roared and pummeled Razk.  Nearly dead, unable to escape, he slashed again and again, nearly gutting the warlord before collapsing.  Akrak grasped for items of healing.  Tarkin saw no way to get to the warlord and barked at Scratch.  Calling upon his inner power, Scratch repelled the gnolls from the area.  Clearing the path, Tarkin grew in size and ferocity, dragging Scartch with him.

Akrak howled and set himself, unable to charge with his leg in tatters.  Tarkin dropped Scratch and rushed in.  With only teeth and claws the two tore at each other for what seemed like minutes.  Those surrounding stopped and watched.  Blood splattered in all directions.  Howls echoed for a mile.  When the fight stopped, both gnolls were in a pile and neither looked like they had survived.  Scratch found his brothers, barely able to move himself, and dragged them away.

Tarkin awoke feeling terrible, but alive.  It would be weeks before he recovered fully.  When he did, he walked out of his tent the new Warlord of Garlaccal.

Ranger 9 / Huntsman 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 17, 2021, 11:26:01 AM

Great Warload Akrak.. not so Great!  *Hyena cackles*

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 01:25:57 PM

Malchia (Malchia, various)

The world was a bit different when Malchia returned on the Day Magic was Broken.  Disoriented by the return and the sudden upheaval of magic, he took time to collect his thoughts and regroup.  The safest, and not far place he come up with was Amansky.  There, for a year, he was able to learn about the decade he was gone and understand what his magic could and could not do with the weave broken.

Time in Amansky was safe and relaxed, although boring.  He was allowed freedom and an out of the way home, but the citizens were not interested in Malchia's amusements or passions.  They cared little for Iott or the collection of relics and items of magic.  The more time he spent there, the more he felt as if he was being preached to or even lectured.  Warnings of expulsion from the nation were uncommon, but occurred.  It was clear the Nipits and Sakor'akai were wary of him.

Feeling he had outlived his welcome, Malchia began to contact his old companions.  Unreachable, dead, or crusading, most of the effort was wasted.  While he would have just set out on his quest to complete the Regalia of Quentin himself, the world now seemed not a good place for a lone sorcerer to be traveling with no home; even one as powerful as he was.  He thought of joining the effort to topple Iott, but by this time they seemed to be back peddling, and likely not ever able to regain the dominance.  Those that crusaded against Iott were often not find of arcane spellcasters and would turn away his offer of help.

So, he began to collect the items for which he had long been searching.  His quest took him around the world and netted him all but one of the items.  A decade, and it was nowhere to be found.  He had gone all the way to Home, but no one answered the call.  He traveled to all three of the draconic realms, yet none of the lords knew where it was.  He called upon Parker and the web of relic hunters, but they too did not know.

Finally, during a stop in Port Talp in 806, he was approached by a fellow Nipit, colorfully adorned.  Malchia immediately recognized the presence of numerous items of magic, and then the telltale signs of the Collector.  He had been hopeful in the early years of his return the the new deity might prove helpful, but the agents he encountered were underwhelming, trying to swindle his magic items, interested in merchant affairs, or a combination of those.  But his creature, for Malchia was confident it was not a Nipit, had a different aura.

"I represent Korekuta, The Collector, or as you might know him: Il Collezionista.  I am Natsu, his high cleric.  We have been watching you and now would like to make you an offer you can't refuse."  Wary, but intrigued as much as he had been...ever...Malchia met with Natsu.  The Collector's Herald for many years had been killed.  Malchia had long ago known Ty, and a moment of sadness hit him.  "We must choose a new one, and there is no one better suited for the task than you."

And so Malchia became the Herald of the Collector, Araldo dil Collezionista.  For the first thing that was given to Malchia was the last piece of the Regalia, which the Collector had found years ago.  Adorned with the set, empowered by a deity, Malchia set out to build a collection of Magic Items unlike Habololy had ever seen.  He made no distinctions, taking from Iott just has he took from others.  He was never reckless, heading what had befallen his former friend and last Herald.  He would have many years to collect, there was no need to rush.

After five years of collecting, The Collector, who directly communicated with Malchia now, had for him a new mission.  A great item, of rare value, had come to his attention.  It was not new, but it had risen to near the top of the Collector's attention.  It was unique.  It was beautiful.  The Collector wanted it, desired it, he would turn it into a floating temple, a symbol of all things the Collector held dear, Malchia would get it for him, the herald would let the world known nothing was beyond the grasp of the Collector!  Malchia could not contain his own excitement as the deity's words grew so loud that it seemed only to be nonsensical croaking.  What was this item, what was so grand that the mighty collector would need it so?  An artifact, a relic, a king's sword, a halfling's basket, a clicking raven, what could it be!

"Croke!! Bring me the Guardian of the Tides!!!"...

Sorcerer 18 / Relic Hunter 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 01:54:43 PM

Wake (Windblade, Seas)

Life on board the Guardian of the Tides was good for Wake.  The ship had gained a reputation that was becoming unmatched for corsairs.  As of 791, it was considered the premiere corsair vessel in the world, having even surpassed the Vigilant Seas.  As the years rolled on, Wake became Master of the Tops, best archer on the crew.  Some crew left, for life aboard the Guardian wasn't as exciting as it once was.  But for Wake, an elf with no horizon on life, even decades spent sailing the world about the greatest ship there was fine time spent.

He honed his skills, learned to command, mastered the paths of the seas, and kept stability on the crew as it turned over each year.  Time spent on the Guardian was like attendance at an elite college, or so he was told.  Once you served here, any ship would have you.  Wake became part of that, as each crew member that came aboard and could use a bow wanted to take lessons from the master of the arrow-less bow.

After two decades of having no fear, it was no wonder that when a giant bat covered the moon one night as the Guardian was at sea and hailed the ship, Wake was not concerned...

Ranger 5

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 17, 2021, 02:01:11 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 17, 2021, 11:26:01 AM

Great Warload Akrak.. not so Great!  *Hyena cackles*

Wait . . . Brothers chase wrong enemy all these years? Tox hope mighty Dedestroyt let Tox smash Akrak with his cod piece kettle for long time.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 02:10:21 PM

Taiji (Hero, Seas)

Happy as a clam, it would have been hard for Taiji to have found a better life than the one he stumbled into on the Guardian of the Tides.  Free to sail the world, on this ship, he could go anywhere.  No navy could get their way.  Any pirate that dared challenge them ran the risk of sinking then or later when Rin or Nathan took vengeance upon them.  With the slayer Claude also a known friend of the ship, even the wyrms of the seas were hesitant.

From carpenter to ship's mage and several other roles, Taiji served year after year.  Partaking in the pleasures of life at each port, he dreamed of never leaving the ship.  Captaining his own occasionally sounded fun, but that level of responsibility and work would eventually feel like a trap.  So he traveled and enjoyed, defending and maintain the ship.  Not even when they engaged a Grean Warship did he fret, as the Guardian damaged the enemy and fled without a scratch.

Over the years, Taiji oversaw a variety of magical upgrades.  These proved more and more challenging as the years progressed, but he figured them our and each year the ship grew more and more impressive.  His favorite addition, a carving of a sleek what on the side of the ship, one he had done purposely.  Enchanted by Tommimao's clerics, in thanks for a mission by the guardian, allowed the ship to ignore all manner of water hinderances such as seaweed, coral reefs, sand bars, and such.  He couldn't wait show to it off to Rin.  Maybe that would finally impress her enough.

One night, after he had been satisfyingly intoxicated, Taiji awoke to the nervous call of a crewmember.  Giant croaking bat, that made no sense.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 02:39:39 PM

Chase (Malchia, Seas)

After the Guardian's return from its voyage in the unknown, Chase left the crew to commission his own ship.  Made in the same fashion as the Guardian, it became known as its sister ship.  Collecting a crew, he was able to steal a few away from the Guardian and other ships to which he had connections.  Isiyawa, Parker, and later Kasai were the most notable.

The ship had many advantages, mostly stemmed from the experience and notoriety of the Guardian.  Every flaw that the Guardian had in construction, and there weren't many, were corrected with Chase's ship.  The assumption that the Guardian would rush to the aid of Chase and his ship meant that most ships were unlikely to engage it.

For the first few years, Chase and his crew sailed the world looking to right wrongs and save lives.  More adventurous than the Guardian, Chase had recruiting a crew to match and they were willing to follow him into any danger.  When the pirates and Layraedia fought, he sailed into the battle.  When Yinites needed an escort into unfriendly water, he offered it.  When Grean ships made demands of small port towns, he defended them.

About five years into his captaincy, a new mission arose.  He was contracted by Iott to help fix magic.  Jumping at the chance to help accomplish so grand a mission, for those that helped fix magic would surely be remember forever, Chase agreed.  The pay for the endeavor was great as well.  Better yet, it seemed to involve no combat, in less pirates came calling.  A load of cargo, magically confirmed to neither be illegal or stolen, needed to be transported from the String Mountains to Iott.

Collecting the cargo at Port Springs, Chase set sail.  For two days he sailed east until troubled waters slowed him a bit.  Nothing he had not encountered before.  A heavy fog rolled in the next morning.  Seemingly natural, Chase readied for an attack that quickly came.  Long boats latched on to the ship, slowing it further.  Great birds descended, harassing the crew in the rigging.  Flaming arrows rained down.  All these things, Chase had seen before and he called out orders to counter them all.  Winds swept away the fog, shielded them from arrows, and drove of the birds.  Crew cut the hooks.  In days of old, the ship would have moved swiftly away, but the spells that protected it now delayed that action.

Two longboats rammed and began to board.  Again, Chase had seen this and lead the repelling action.  Several minutes into the attack, the crew cheered as all seemed well.  But the ship lurched and all fell quiet.  A mighty bear, thirty feet long if it was a foot pulled itself half way onto the deck.  Chase yelled out new orders, and the crew obeyed as best they could.  The bear swiped men off the deck and tore away rigging.  It swatted away spells, arrows and spears.  Chase's tricks made little difference.  The longboats returned and this time were able to board the ship.

Realizing the battle was lost and fearing for his crew, Chase surrendered.  His hopes were rewarded.  Although some had been killed already, the raiders stopped their attack and took the rest prisoner.  Chase was relieved for a moment before be knocked unconscious. He awoke on a beach, along the coast of the Frozensky forest.  Left with enough to survive, he spent two years making his way back to Port Springs.

Once there, he found a ship and offered his services.  He had thought a great deal in his time in exile.  A long life allowed him such time to think.  Evetually he made his way back to Port Talp, where fellow corsairs were happy to see him alive.  He asked about his crew and heard that some had been seen.  Of others, there was no report and like Chase, they were assumed dead.  When the Guardian of the Tide returned to port, he met with his old mates.  Amare offered him the job of first mate, and he accepted.

His time aboard the Guardian was again well spent and enjoyable.  Chase would eventually get his own ship and settle the score.  For the moment, he earned coin, searched for word of any of his crew, and practiced his skills.  More than most of the crew, when a bat appeared in front of the moon one night, he feared.

Bard 5 / Weathersinger 10 / Renowned Captain 2

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 17, 2021, 03:38:22 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 01:25:57 PM

Malchia (Malchia, various)

"Croak!! Bring me the Guardian of the Tides!!!"...

(https://i.imgflip.com/4u6bwe.jpg)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 04:01:14 PM

Kasai (Malchia, Seas)

After a few years spent aboard The Redemption under captain Gabriel, Kasai learned that Chase had his own ship.  The voyages of Chase sounded a bit more appealing than Gabriel's more military style vessel, so with no hard feelings and at the end of his contracted time, Kasai bid farewell and headed off to find Chase's ship.

Quickly made the Ship's Mage, Kasai loved the ship and crew Chase had picked.  They sailed for several years completing tasks of daring and adventure.  Nothing ever rose to the missions of the Guardian in the mind blowing grandeur, but smaller tasks can have just as much meaning.  Kasai was quick to back Chase's plans to help restore magic to the world.  His owns spells were effected and the results were not what any self respecting wizards would prefer.

The mission to transport materials from the String Mountains to Iott was perfect.  Kasai spent hours making sure it was legitimate.  He met with spellcasters around Port Springs to confirm it, even talking to a high constable to make sure the items had arrived and remaining as they should have in the city.  All set, they set sail.  They took every precaution, detecting ships and weather as best he could with magic in its current state, Kasai readied the ship.

When the attack came, Kasai was ready.  Repelling arrows, birds, hooks, and all manner of attacks.  He directed the spellcasters with great precision.  But the bear was a huge problem.  To Kasai's dread, there was nothing enchanted about the bear.  All natural, he could do little to slow it down.  He did his best, unleashing his arsenal until the order came from Chase to stand down.  He did not want to, but he realized the dire straits of the situation.

They separated the crew into groups.  There were barbarians and Frozenskys.  Kasai waited as they watched him and took the crew away.  They were all being treated fairly and well.  Wounds were tended to and a few at a time they were loaded on to longboats to be taken to shore, including the captain.

Kasai was one of the last on board when he came to a realization of who was left.  He and the three other arcane spellcasters.  He leapt into action, but his spell failed and he coughed and choked.  "We are sorry, but our orders are to not allow your kind to live." said one of the dwarves.  "But, we will not kill the child." the dwarf pointed to one of the crew, Kasai's young apprentice.  "Dedestroyt be merciful: Bear, Water, or Ax?" were the last words spoken to Kasai.

Sorcerer 9

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 04:28:53 PM

Valdis Drac'Orden (Valdis, Seas)

The backbone of the Guardian of the Tides, Valdis remained on the crew after many of the founders were gone.  He remembered back to the post he answered for a crew on the Vigilant Seas, and later serving with many of the on the Pride of the Rose.  More than most of the other crew, the short lived Valdis appreciated and understand the passage of time.

Along with Amare and Thermon, the three had served together for more than twenty years.  Maybe twenty five, but Valdis was that good with time, which was even harder to track at sea.  As other departed, he became the veteran presence along with Amare.  He kept the crew in order and made sure there was no doubt that the Guardian remained the fiercest corsair at sea.  With magic shaky, his appearance on a nearby ship to warn it away was unnerving and dissuaded a few ships.

It was Valdis that turned away the fey mutiny. It was Valdis who rescued the crew from the smoke house in Magenthia.

When the ship's bell rang out in the night, Valdis answered the call and prepared the crew.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 05:36:24 PM

Malchia Comes to Collect the Guardian

It was a chill night somewhere west of the Horarian Islands.  The Guardian of the Tides was sailing the long way around to the north heading to Portet.  Wake called out from the crow's next that something was above.  The officer on duty, Chase, who typically took the night watch, moved to the stern and quietly ordered crew to stations.  Whatever it was, there seemed to be no urgency in its movements.

By the time Malchia reached a height from which he could be heard, having given the crew time to access him and try to take in the gravity of their situation, most of the crew were at stations and readying.  He had been advised that the Guardian and its crew were talented and fearless, and rarely challenged.  He had also been made aware of all of its capabilities.  Which by the time had reached 100 feet, he had negated.

Amare, in full captain attire by this time, stood near Chase.  "Ahoy, I am Captain Amare of the Guardian of the Tides."  He let that sink in, as it sometimes was enough to deter.  "State your business."

"My name is Malchia, I have come to give you good news.  Il Collezionista has deemed your ship a magnificent specimen of magic and gives you the honor of knowing what you have made is worth of his attention and will be forever set as part of his collection."

Most of the crew looked puzzled.  This deity to most of them was a trader and patron of merchants.  A few also knew that his shrines were places where magical items could be safely disposed of or traded.  But the officers knew better.

"We thank you for your kinds words, but if its all the same, we'll keep the ship." Amare responded and silently gave orders.

"The great and powerful Il Collezionista offers each of you an item in exchange.  Every crew member will be able to take a coin to a shrine and exchange the coin for an item."

Taiji, having made his way on deck, chimed in, "Well, let's just skip ahead to the part where I trade my coin for the ship and we're on our way."  Many of the crew chuckled, few knew the level of danger they now faced.

"You have turned down a fair offer, so now a demand.  Take the exchange or the ship will be taken from your ungrateful hands."

Chase signaled to Wake, who fired a glowing arrow of warning.  "We do not take to threats.  Fly off now or our next move will not be a warning." the first mate called in a voice that shook with magic.

"I will do my best not to kill anyone, but the ship is no longer yours." Malchia dove down.  The crew was stunned.  No one attacked the Guardian, this creature must have a death wish.

Arrows flew towards Malchia, to no avail.  Spell rang out, bolts of energy and balls of sound, halting words, and tiring waves.  They had no effect.  In response, Malchia unleashed explosions of force which knocked a dozen crew from the deck into the sea.  The bat screeched, deafening and disorienting more.

Valdis raced up the ropes and slashed away, his attacks blasting the bat and rider more than Malchia had expected.  Chase inspired the crew and Amare directed the response.  A wave of exhaustion drove many crew to their knees as Malchia moved away from the rigging.  Amare tried to activate the ship's defenses, but one by one, they failed.  Wake's endless bolts could not strike Malchia.  Valdis prepped and readied to launch himself into the sky with an attack that would drive the attacker to the deck.

Taiji worked on getting the ship working, as he soon realized his spells were of no use against the attacker.  Some crew tended to those overboard, others tried in vane to send out messages.  Coordinating, Valdis and Thermon moved.  Leaping into the sky, Valdis flew at Malchia, not scored a serious hit, but driving him down just enough so that Thermon could throw his enchanted net.  Able to move, but not able to escape the net, the rider and bat were pulled down.

Still not concerned Malchia continued to even the odds.  More crew were knocked off the deck and the doors leading to the deck were sealed.  Even in the net, the crew could not seem to hurt Malchia.  Amare was frozen in place by a spell.  Valdis changed tactics and dropped to the deck, using hand signals, he directed a new line of attack.  Slowing the two instead of moving faster himself, he made them easier to hit.

Taiji dispelled them, hoping to get lucky.  Chase climbed high enough to stag out at the bat, stunning him with a skilled attack.  He signaled the others to follow suit.  From every corner of the ship, attacks came in with spear, bolt, arrow and spell.  Thermon swung the net around and slammed the two into the mast.  Right below Wake, at point blank range, he fired into the bat.  Deadly shot after deadly shot, the third through the head of the beast and the two fell.

The crew cheered, but they did not know what they had wrought.  "Surrender now and we will spare your life." Chase ordered.

Malchia spent what seemed an eternity staring at his dead friend.  He had failed Nefario, underestimated the ship, overestimated his own power.  Chase tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention.  Malchia had not heard the words.  In an explosion of magic power he stood.  Everyone except Valdis and Thermon were knocked to the ground.  Every item on Malchia seemed to come to life.  He was not one spellcaster, but a swarm of magic items acting together.

Of all those that saw, Chase understood now what was going to happen.  As he had before, he began to bargain, but he could hear no words come from his mouth.  He saw Wake thrown from the crow's next into the horizon.  Amare obliterated by force.  Thermon consumed by fire.  Chase rushed to get the crew over board.  He lowered the boats as spells lit up the sky.  For miles he thought they must be able to see this display.

Taiji sent out spells of aid and transport, trying to save the crew and call for help.  He saved others, but was too late for himself, turned to dust.  As he had been for decades Valdis stood, the last defender on the ship.  He drew all of Malchia's ire as he withstood spell after spell.  The crew poured out to the deck, Chase had freed the doors and ran below getting everyone out as Valdis held off Malchia.

Chase thought it would have taken minutes to get everyone off the ship, but he could not tell how much time it actually took.  With the last boats away, he counted two thirds of the crew.  They rowed away.  The crew called out that they were safe, hoping Valdis could flee.  They never saw him again, nor their beloved ship, which vanished moments later.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 17, 2021, 06:02:52 PM

The imagery in that story is great. And I love that the Collector is still up to his old tricks under the guise of a legitimate businessman.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 17, 2021, 06:18:34 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 05:36:24 PM

The crew called out that they were safe, hoping Valdis could flee.  They never saw him again, nor their beloved ship, which vanished moments later.

So you’re telling me that there’s a chance...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 17, 2021, 06:40:37 PM

I'm happy that Malchia finally collected the artifact set and became the Herald of The Collector, but I feel a little empty inside now that Nefario has been killed.

I agree with Hero; the imagery of that confrontation was epic, as it should be.  Even the deaths of the Guardian crew were spectacular.  I look forward to seeing what happens to Malchia and Valdis.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 17, 2021, 07:15:21 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 05:36:24 PM

The crew called out that they were safe, hoping Valdis could flee.  They never saw him again, nor their beloved ship, which vanished moments later.

Two for one deal: I collected the ship and Valdis.  ;)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 08:14:12 PM

Maybe an updated timeline and stats from Zunder...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 17, 2021, 08:21:31 PM

Looks like I have 30 still to complete.  But over 70% finished...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 17, 2021, 08:38:21 PM

Quote from: Malchia on January 17, 2021, 07:15:21 PM

Two for one deal: I collected the ship and Valdis.  ;)

3 for 1 actually. Lewis was probably on Valdis’ back when he stood his ground

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 17, 2021, 09:03:56 PM

Quote from: Valdis on January 17, 2021, 08:38:21 PM

3 for 1 actually. Lewis was probably on Valdis’ back when he stood his ground

Oh yeah, how could I forget about Lewis?  Although, I'm only hoping that Malchia succeeded.  Truth is, that excerpt may have been eloquently describing all of us being erased by the GoLK.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 20, 2021, 11:14:38 AM

Nathan Tanner (Windblade, Seas)

After the voyage into the unknown and Sas' departure from the Guardian, Nathan continued his mission to travel to all of the shrines and temples of Lakius in order to convert them to his vision of the religion of Lakius.  The Guardian proved an excellent vehicle for the mission, as its notoriety and speed allowed him to travel the world quickly and safely.

By the time the reign of Iott began, he had visited a quarter of the locations, including many of the challenging ones, such as the Orcish city of Aquehar.  Iott's reign proved a boon for Nathan's efforts.  Because the high cleric of Lakius was Iottian, he was able to sail from port to port without question.  The seas had few pirates and the Grean Navy, allied with Iott, gave the Guardian no issues.  Seizing that opportunity, Nathan visited the Grean ports in those years.  This took up two years, during which the Guardian cam and went.  Paperwork, wait time, and long explanations were frequent.  It was far from what Nathan enjoyed, but he knew this was the best chance he would ever have to talk to the seaborne nation.  His efforts went as well as he could have hoped.  The faith in the Grean Republic leaned away from him morally, but they were not hermits, as community and group effort were very important.  He was able in two years to place advocates of his stance in every temple and a number of shrines.  He met with winged Gree and advocated they join the faith.  One such Gree, a winged one named Nikit became the leading advocate in the Republic for Nathan.

Nathan continued to visit Iottian friendly locations in those first years, taking advantage of the connection.  The Destroytian Republic and Thalmeret, where especially they did not want to he his message but were obliged to because of Iott's influence.  In Port Draeydan, he discovered that the cleric of Lakius who was listed as the high cleric there for fifty years had died and everyone had assumed he was living as a hermit.  At Lake Mournee in the republic, which was the most difficult trip as he had to fly inland to make it there, he found a cleric of Lakius that had never heard of Nathan but had already come to the same conclusions about the faith, a half elf named Espertain.

When magic changed, Nathan was aware but not concerned.  It had little impact on his powers or his mission.  After months, it seemed that the biggest impacts were on travel and combat; one of which Nathan could do easily without spells and the other he hadn't meaningfully engaged in years.  He next took his quest to Icefia, where the Vass high cleric salvager shrugged at his suggestions and cared not either way.  Clerics at the many ports in Icefia where happy to hear his preaching and many liked what they heard.  Nathan made sure to revisit all of the first places he had stopped.  On occasion, such as in Aquehar, things had fallen apart and he had to rebuild.

The Guardian remained a notable ship and it sailed the world even after the Ascension of Kallark.  Again the dynamic of magic effected Nathan little.  He attended the funeral of the Yellowian Admiral and cleric of Lakius Samuel Mist, a sad day as the old man had been a stabilizing force in Yellowia since the rise of Iott.  It also brought about the first power struggle Nathan encounter with the high cleric Handel.  The two had wildly different choices as to who should lead the faith in Yellowia.  Even though Handel's choice was officially installed, the faithful in Yellowia took their lead from Nathan's choice, a Gatori river manager named Gekol.

The tensions between Handel and Nathan grew in the years after Kallark's ascension.  Iott was reasserting itself and it was more direct that it had been in the first years.  As Nathan traveled to Kathow-tio-Horari, where the he formed a strong relationship with that religion and its new high cleric, Yukora, Handel pressured him to bring the Yinites more on board with Iott's plan.  Nathan had no interest in that.  When he went to Layreadia, the nation through a festival in his honor.  They killed out their long time high cleric of Lakius, and allowed Nathan to anoint a young new cleric.  Iott did like like Layraedia.

Through all these years, Nathan made a point to meet with the Sky Giants whenever the opportunity arose.  Every time he met them, one more giant grew tired of waiting for the return of Stromus and feared they other deities would not meet expectations, specifically Taivas Valtias.  Aad, the Cloud Giant cleric of Taivas Valtias was never happy with Nathan's arrival and constantly sought to thwart his efforts.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 20, 2021, 11:51:16 AM

Nathan part 2

The ebb and flow of world politics never meant much to Nathan, until finally he was forced to face it.  Handel called an official conclave of Lakius in 805.  On the Floating Isle, fifty clerics gathered.  The meeting did not go well for Nathan and his side.  The traditionalists where more experiences and more interested in formally and procedure.  They were generally older and wiser.  They had the backing of Iott.  They thanked Nathan for his efforts, as the faith had increased in size during his time, but they insisted the movement stop expanding.  They siting Layraedia's actions again and again, as well as the undermining of the Yellowian high cleric.  Nathan did his best, Pierre, his oldest ally in the effort made a good case as well.  In the end, it was clear a cold war was beginning.

Nathan returned to the Guardian and they sailed around the world, visiting every shrine and temple that he could.  The Guardian was barred entry at the Grean Ports and other places that strongly backed Iott.  Aquehar went so far as to call him an apostate and banned him from the Orcish Empire.  The ire of the quasi deities also rose against Nathan's side, a move he assumed was brought on by Handel's allies in Iott.  The Ritvalists and the cretures of Pulundogin,  Lavash'Ki as well, especially since the Yinites were on his side.

After that voyage, Nathan and the Guardian sailed to Port Talp and he made a fateful announcement.  The ship was now in too much danger and spending too much time on his personal quest.  The Guardian was meant to protect the seas and now it was ferrying him and protecting him.  He didn't need it.  All the time is was spending for him, it should be spending elsewhere.  The crew was competent, the ship even more powerful than it was fifteen years ago.  He said he would visit, and he was never far with the crown at his disposal.  There were tears and hugs and the feast lasted days.  Claude attended, although he only made the last few hours having gotten the date wrong.

Making the Home of the Harbor Port Talp his official base of operations, Nathan went to work in a way he found far less enjoyable than his efforts of the past nearly two decades.  Writing epistles and letters, he sought to remake the religion.  He had done a fantastic job getting into the world and convincing, but there was little written for his side.  For years, he traveled less little and wrote a lot.  Only when an emergency came up did he quickly go to a temple or shrine.  His most trusted clerics did the work he had done.  He spent his fortune hiring guards for his evangelists.  The Guardian and other friendly corsairs, who almost to a ship preferred his interpretation of the religion, conveyed them to port to port.  Yukora order the traveling Yinites to aid Nathan's clerics.

It was during this time, that Nathan learned of the disappearance of the Guardian of the Tides.
He immediately rushed out to check on the crew.  Finding them, by that point mostly safe at port, he heard the story of what had happened.  Rin returned as well to check on everyone.  The sad news and funerals took weeks.  Nathan spent a great deal of energy for several months looking for the ship.  Every time he got close, it wasn't there.  Stopping in Kathow, he met with his friend Yukora, you told him a hard truth.  He could not continue his mission and spend all the time searching for the Guardian.  Realizing that it may even be an Iottian plan to distract him, one that was working, he have up the quest.

Nathan's two books of the faith were adequate.  Pierre politely smiled and put them into print.  However, his letters to the faithful were much better.  His third letter to Upflou from 813 is considered the best of his writings.  Returning to the temple if Port Talp a year later, he was horrified to find Pierre almost dead.  If not for a spell Claude had taught him years before, the assassin that had come for him would have succeeded.  There was never any proof, but Iottian agents were suspected.  Word came that the next attack would not fail, and would likely be in the form of fire.  That meant only one Iottian, one even Nathan feared to face.

Hoping to protect Pierre, Nathan made in known he would go to another base, although he did not say where.  Irony that Nathan was not living alone, almost a hermit until he determined his next move.  When word reached Nathan of Kallark's defeat, he thought it may be the break the faith needed. He went to confront Handel on the Floating Isle.  The high cleric of alone, as one might expect.  "All is lost, the isle is yours, the faith is yours."  The defeated high cleric left.  Having no choice, but more accepting of the fate in his older age, Nathan took the helm of the isle.

All his time leading up to the Counsil meeting of 816 was preparing the religion for what might come next.

Cleric 8 / Seatender 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 20, 2021, 12:59:36 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 20, 2021, 11:51:16 AM

Irony that Nathan was not living alone

Assuming this was Now..  you hussy!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 20, 2021, 01:10:56 PM

I really hope we get to play out that 816 meeting. It would be a fitting capstone to all this craziness.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 20, 2021, 01:12:53 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 20, 2021, 01:10:56 PM

I really hope we get to play out that 816 meeting. It would be a fitting capstone to all this craziness.

Maybe after a red sky, lightening, and  Ila'Alnar.  Probably a few more shoes that need to drop

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 20, 2021, 01:23:59 PM

Love the reference to Claude and is Tchau the fire from Iott.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 20, 2021, 05:44:17 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 20, 2021, 01:12:53 PM

Maybe after a red sky, lightening, and  Ila'Alnar.  Probably a few more shoes that need to drop

Likely a few, timeline please...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 20, 2021, 05:45:15 PM

Quote from: Windblade on January 20, 2021, 01:23:59 PM

Love the reference to Claude and is Tchau the fire from Iott.

Some have already speculated that in posted, but it is not confirmed.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 20, 2021, 09:31:24 PM

Breadcrumbs
790	Great Forrest Treaty
792	Hothmur Mountain Magic visit's Natsu's
796	Assualt on Baernl
797	Assualt on Grimhold
800	Grapalore
803	Sutyr betrays council
805	Conclave of Lakius
809	Day of Dust
809	Attack on Amasky - weeks of terror
810	Merid Destroyed
810	Grant calls out Razk
811	Gneblin Assassination
811	Battle of the Jungle Revealed
812	Spaz leaves
814	Kallark was destroyed
815	Artemus returns to Plateau
815	Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar ( Last stand ofSutyr)
815	Vega named chief constable
815	Iott is back to being in the place it was before (Schurke)
816	Undead came to Plateau (Grimhold )
816	Council Meeting
816	Red Glow on the Plateau
816	Low Bar Lightening

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 20, 2021, 11:15:04 PM

Rin Matasumo (Zunder, Seas)

After the events in the unknown and on the forgotten island, Rin and the Guardian of the Tides continued to sail on its corsair mission around the world.  While she felt comfortable and happy on the ship, as the years went by, Rin also felt like she could do more in other ways.  The ship limited her to travel from port to port and the area near the ship she could cover during the trip.  She held a position among the crew and had duties on the ship due to that position.  Habits are hard to break and routine is easy, so Rin remained and did good work on the Guardian for years. 

She collected information on the great Sakor'akai slayer, trying to track his movements in hopes of finding him.  He remained elusive and with few large whales to hunt, he seemed to focus on dragons, leaving him typically far for Rin's reach.  She tracked whaling ships put crews on notice not to join up with them.  These years were bad for whalers and good for Rin.  She did not know as it happened, but years later learned that Iott's reign had an unintended and good consequence.  They proliferation of magic and magical techniques meant that less whale oil was needed.  In the five years of their reign and shortly after, the amount of whaling halved by Rin's estimate; some of that due to Rin's efforts.

Her work went hand in hand with Nathan's efforts to remake the religion of Lakius.  At one point, though, Rin had an epiphany.  If Nathan succeeded, might that drain power from Treetop?  If Lakius became the tender to all sea life, wouldn't that encroach on Treetop?  Rin's guarded animal fell right in the path of the collision.  She never tried to stop Nathan, and helped him at port.  But a divine inspiration gave her pause at times.  In 800, Rin came to the conclusion that it was time to leave the Guardian.  Conflicted by Nathan's mission and chained to the ship's limits, it was no longer what was best for her and the whales.

Announcing her decision while the ship was at port in Kathow-tio-Horari, the crew quickly arranged a party in her honor.  Embarrassed, but not wanting to take away their moment, she agreed.  For three days, they told tales and made merry.  Len, the fey doctor and fellow cleric of Treetop, usually subdued, read a tearful poem in her honor.  By its length and complexity, which included several stanzas in fey that many didn't understand, he had been writing it for far longer than the few days they had been stopped.

Rin left the Guardian on a warm summer day at dawn as the tide rolled out to sea.  Many of the crew watched until she was out of sight.  She fired an arrow over the horizon as a final farewell and sunk it deep into the mast.  The crew left it there.

With Tsunami at her side, Rin now set about the task of making the world a better place for whales.  Her efforts and the drop in whaling had increased the population by a notable about.  The area around Kathow-tio-Horari, where the Yinites seemed to make everyone so fertile Rin didn't even want to hug any men while there, had given birth to packs of whales.  Trying to take advantage of that, Rin collected endangered whales from all over the world and brought them near to Hiyokuna Machi.  In the water near there, whales prospered and helped repopulate.  Still a slow process for whales, but nonetheless faster than any place else.

Rin was invited to the jungles to meet with Vavalikai Jungletree, high cleric of Treetop.  The meeting meant that she had achieved the highest honor of an animal guard.  Dozens gathered for the banquet, which also honored the owl guard and the gnomish prairie dog guard.  Rin was clearly the most sought out at the event, as the whale guard had a long tradition and was a challenging and respected role.

Times grew hard for the animal guard as the plagues came, but not for Rin.  At no time did a plague infect any whales.  She was ever vigilant and watched as the guards of other creatures were tormented by the plagues.  The sheep guard, the goat guard, and very sadly the high cleric, the guard of the elves all perished.  Rin wanted to help, but her orders and mandate were clear.  Guard the whales.  She offered aid when she could, but the whales were on a path to recovery, and that shouldn't be jeopardized.

After the worst of the plagues was over, Rin spent more time among people again.  It was on one such occasion when she and the slayer met again.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 10:39:32 AM

Rin part 2

While visiting Veronica and her family, Rin heard Tsunami's call.  It was one of warning and urgency.  Rushing into the water looking out to the horizon Rin saw the enormous wings of the Sakor'akai slayer.  With his huge hunting spear in hand, we dove into the warm mating waters around the blessed island.  Blood blossomed into the water as he swooped back up ready for another dive.  Tsu met Rin and they races to the area.  Standing atop the whale, she pulled her bow and fired arrow after arrow toward the Sakor'akai.  Year of planning and waiting had readied her.  A fortune had been spent on the items she now wielded to defeat her prey.

Since last they had met, he too had improved his arsenal.  Scales of bronze and gold were draped around him to protect him, bones daggers adorned his belt, neck and head.  The arrows pelted him but did not pierce his skin.  Diving at her, finally an arrow drove into his shoulder having deflected off his bone crown, a shot Rin thought should have killed him.  He crashed into her and Tsu.  His spear tore into the whale and he latched onto Rin.  Tsu, nearly killed from the incredible flurry of the dive withdrew and he lifted Rin out of the water.

Up they flew as Rin prayed for protection and stabbed at him with a dagger.  Prepared for such an instance, her dagger was crafted to harm the slayer and each time to punched through the armor he winced.  One final strike and his wings went limp.  They plummeted towards the sea.  "We go together." he mumbled.  Rin again prayed for a spell to escape, but the slayer broke her casting.  They hit the water with incredible speed.

She had no idea when it was, but Rin when it was cold.  She was underwater, in utter darkness.  For only a brief moment she thought she was dead.  More likely another plane.  When she heard a voice, she thought something else.  Retsunagi, the eel creatures of the northern seas.  By the end of a few weeks, she learned, as the Retsunagi seemed unconcerned about telling her, that they were paid to keep are imprisoned.  They knew nothing of the slayer's whereabouts.  They would not tell her the time, and in the darkness, it was impossible to keep track.  Her prayers were sometimes answered, but those that would help her escape failed.

The time, years she assumed, was dull and cold.  Prayer and her captures concern for keeping her alive kept her going.  It was miserable, but not tortuous.  It was clear that whoever had paid to keep her there wanted her alive and healthy enough.  Daily, she called out to the whales, hoping for an answer.  Some voiced their regret, but the home of the Retsunagi was a place the feared to go.  She called upon the horde and called to the traveler, but they did not come.  She feared they were dead, for nothing else she could perceive would keep them from her.

On occasion, she would have company in the cells near her, they were sailors and fishers.  Sadly, they were kept alive to feed off of for only as long as their bodies would hold out giving blood to the Retsunagi.  It was a sad state.  One time, a Gree was put, unconscious, into the cell near her.  Rin was intrigued and a but excited.  The Retsunagi did not feast on Gree, so his reason for being here was be something else.  News of the world and the date were the little facts that helped her get thought this.

She was shocked when the gree opened his eyes and she saw a glint of recognition.  "Hello Rin, I have come to repay you."  Ritvali slipped between the bars and unlocked her.  "Quickly we go and I will deliver you to a friend."  They swam quickly, with Ritvali carrying her along.  Excitement and praying this was not a delusion raced in Rin's mind.  That it was Ritvali and not someone else convinced her it was not a dream, for she would not have picked or guessed him as savior.  Reaching the surface, her eyes took a long time to adjust to the light, but soon enough she saw the form of another Gree, an iceflow, and penguins.

Nezhek Unhebna awaited her and tended to her.  Ritvali spoke, "The Guardian of the Tides has gone missing.  Many of the crew are dead.  The Traveler of the Seas travels no more.  Tsu is out there somewhere.  But you are alive Guardian Rin, and you have me and Nezhek to thank.  Recover and remember, and I will meet you again."  Ritvali dove into the water, leaving a pile of items which belonged to Rin.

The ice flow sailed north, where Rin could recover in peace.

Cleric 6 / Ranger 4 / Animal Guard 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 21, 2021, 11:05:04 AM

Enjoyed the story. Who is Nezhek Unhebna? 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 21, 2021, 11:07:02 AM

Quote from: Windblade on January 21, 2021, 11:05:04 AM

Enjoyed the story. Who is Nezhek Unhebna?

Isn't he the penguin guard?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 11:11:02 AM

Solaris (Windlbade, various)

The Divine Agent of Hemator, Solaris was a symbol of virtue in Pacyr.  Around the world, faithful of the faith recognized him as the embodiment of their deity.  It had been many years since one so closely aligned and resembling Hemator herself walked the mortal world.  In the nation of Hemator, none challenged his words.  Not even the president's words had more weight the Solaris.  It was a daunting responsibility.

Other than preach and practice the faith, Solaris searched the world for signs of the undead and planar evil.  Always in communication with the Guardians, he was vigilant for the threats.  On few occasions, he traveled out to combat and defeat such threats, but there were rare and his presence alone ended the confrontation quickly.

Solaris' existence changed in the years of Iott's reign, and never went back to the way it was.  Pacyr grew more isolated and exclusive.  Both by Iott's design and the governments directives, the nation had less and less to do with the outside world.  It was only Solaris' pleading that led a group of Pacyrans to take part in the attacks on the Day of Magic Deliverance.  In Pacyr, where the results of that effort were known sooner than elsewhere, the results were challenging.  The faith of Drunnbar, long allied in the nation with Hemator, pressed for arcane spellcasters to be removed from positions of power until Iott's ultimate defeat.  Mayor's, governors, and other officials were removed from office.  A month's long debate nearly ousted Clement from his position as high cleric in the nation.

Fear and resentment were Solaris' enemies now.  Preaching and speaking often, traveling the nation, he plead for understanding and engagement with the world.  His efforts held the line, but did not get more than a few to leave to help the world.  Those few that left dwindled more when reports came that renowned sorcerer Lynda Suncaller had been killed in a duel with wizards of Iott.  Solaris argued that if more effort was made, she would be alive.  The opposition argued that had she stayed home, she would be alive.

In 805, Solaris entered the world of politics.  He was loath to do so, and had avoided endorsing for decades, but there was little choice left.  Lodormus choose not to run, but his voice carried weight as the prophet had predicted the dangers of Iott and the cataclysm of the stone breaking in the eyes of most.  He baked the Perennial party, which looked to maintain the status quo, which in this case was not what Solaris wanted.  He backed the Austere party, which advocated for a more active role in the world and included the faiths of Stasis and Falan.  Solaris was certain this was better for Hemator's religion, so he campaigned on behave of the candidate.  The election was close.  In the last weeks, fearing the Austere party might win, the Happiness party, consisting of members of the faith of Quan Yin, advocated voting Perennial to avoid the nation going to war.  The switch was enough, and the Perennial party won the election.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 11:46:07 AM

Solaris part 2

Taking time off for a the public spotlight, Solaris traveled the smaller towns and shrines of Hemator in Pacyr and Icefia.  It took far longer than in the past, as travel to the planes via gate was bound to draw attention and Gales teleporting was at times non functional and at times also brought unwanted attention.  It was in these years that Solaris recognized before most the dangerous plagues coming.  For centuries, many had relied on magic to handle, process, and transport their food.  They relied on clerics to remove and prevent disease.  They used magic to clean water and items.  The realities had changed years ago, but behaviors had not, and what began as occasional issues was now exploding into disasters.

Solaris was a one man plague buster.  In any town he entered, within a week, things were fine.  Concerned about stopping the plagues where they were, he spent only a little time educating.  He knew in his wisdom that it was not enough time, but in the immediate, others were dying.  He would have to return.  Returning to the main continent, he arrived in Northut and began a path south to remove plagues.  But there, on the docks, waiting for him, was Vistrani Fell.

"Cultist, Cheater of Death, you will not cleanse this city.  Your efforts will do no good.  This purge is long over due.  The world has overfull after more than a decade of uncontrolled breading.  Quan Yin's foolishness continues unabated.  I appeal to your sense.  If this purge does not happen, then more will die in the years to come when the glut starves and makes war.  Better that there be balance now."  Solaris dismissed his words.

"I know that you will not fight me," Vistrani replied.  "But know that because you are not wise enough to see reason, nor courageous enough to fight me, if you continue to go from town to town, removing the purges, I will be behind you.  For everyone you heal, to balance the scale, I will kill three.  Two that would have lived will be dead on your head.  So choose."

Solaris had no recourse.  A fight meant his death.  Solaris had no doubt that Vistrani would do what he promised.  Angered, with no options, Solaris summoned Gales and they fled to Pacyr.  Safe there, he made it a safe haven.  No where else that had population and civilization on the nation's scale was less touched by the plagues.  Solaris convinced the government to allow foreigners to come and spend time to safely recover and often give birth before returning home.

The election of 815 saw the second ever win by the Happiness Party.  With Kallark defeated and Iott on that path, no one saw the need for a more military president.  Pacyr was in better shape internally than any other nation, even if their foreign interaction was at its lowest point in hundred of years.  Solaris was revered as a practical, loving, noble figure.  Without ego and full of care for the people, there was no better living avatar of Hemator.

Cleric 6/ Paladin 2/ Cult Avatar 10/ Saint/ Divine Proxy 2

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 11:47:24 AM

Quote from: Malchia on January 21, 2021, 11:07:02 AM

Isn't he the penguin guard?

Ding

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 05:04:52 PM

Still 22 left, but some big names now off the board.

Most of the guesses on who will be last still out there.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 21, 2021, 09:08:20 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 05:04:52 PM

Still 22 left, but some big names now off the board.

Most of the guesses on who will be last still out there.

I tried to name all 22, only got to 12
Ajax is too old by the end.
Even money on the wizards, specifically Russel. 
Even money on Haas.
Even money on whomever is at " The Low Bar" and "The Red Sky" being the epic end.
But my money is on Claude and some ridiculous wish.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 21, 2021, 09:15:57 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 21, 2021, 09:08:20 PM

I tried to name all 22, only got to 12
Ajax is too old by the end.
Even money on the wizards, specifically Russel. 
Even money on Haas.
Even money on whomever is at " The Low Bar" and "The Red Sky" being the epic end.
But my money is on Claude and some ridiculous wish.

Ajax has Slow Aging but I agree its unlikely . . .

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 21, 2021, 09:18:45 PM

Rubius Humperdink (Part 1) (Malchia, Icefia)

After the Battle of the Broken Temple, Rubius returned to his family in the Guardian Vale. Understandably tired of battles with powers and dragons, Rubius took some time with his family to prepare for their life after his adventures were over. For the next year, as Iott’s ascent began, Rubius continued to assist Ari and Parker in their efforts against the dark powers, but by 792 there were no signs of the cult of Nilas’anor and the relationship between Icefia and Iott was tense.

Rubius’s keen instincts and good luck had always allowed him to overcome any challenge, and as he prepared to begin his new life in the Great Forest, he was sure this time would be no different. To his surprise he found himself faced with an obstacle no amount of good fortune or planning could overcome: his family’s opposition. Emelda and the children had become accustomed to the safety of the Vale, and the rapidly changing situation on the Main Continent made a move particularly unattractive.  However, consistent with the path of Rubius’ life, where one door closed another opened. Word of the exploits of the Halfling Heroes of Icefia had spread far and wide, and between 791 and 793 a small, but significant number of halflings emigrated to Icefia and founded a new settlement southwest of Colonye in the Midlands. Havenhollow it was called and in 795 Rubius and his family were comfortably settled there.  In 796, after the stones were broken, the people of the settlement petitioned King Oliver to appoint Rubius as Lord Mayor.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 21, 2021, 09:21:12 PM

(Professor) Parker Berko (Valdis, Icefia (among others)) (Part 1)

Parker
Following the Battle of the Broken Temple, Parker’s fame grew rapidly for both good and ill.  First, though few witnessed the use of City Cleaver in the destruction of the temple, rumors spread among the people of the city.  By the end of the year the rumors left out Emerius’ role and had Parker razing the temple entirely on his own.  This attracted many who wished to retain Parker’s services, rent City Cleaver for their own projects or “acquire” it from him.  This last group proved especially persistent, particularly after the ascension of the Collector to the Counsil.  Fortunately, Parker has always been a step ahead of his adversaries and has powerful friends so he and his household were never in any real danger. 
Parker’s renown as a scholar increased as well, and after Allanda’s ascension he was formally appointed as a full professor at the College.  There is little doubt that Parker accepted the position to assuage the worries of his wife.  Parker and Robyn married in 793 after the birth of their first daughter, Thera (named after Parker’s mother).  As Iott ascended, Robyn became increasingly nervous, almost paranoid and in 795, pregnant with twins, she prevailed on Parker to move to a residence on the College grounds.  This greatly alleviated her concerns, though she rarely left the grounds.  Parker continued to assist Ari and his friends in opposing the servants of evil in these years; while also keeping involved in his own interests as well.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 21, 2021, 09:25:32 PM

(Lord, Governor,) Sir Arishimoto Udinaru (Hero, Icefia) (Part 1)

For Ari, the years immediately following the Battle of the Broken Temple were very frustrating.  Months of effort to clear the wilderness of the undead yielded little.  Attempts to find a path into Greysnows by land to pursue Uscis and Marius, proved fruitless.  In 792 the High King authorized an attempt to infiltrate by sea.  Ari, Kerkly, his friend Moebius, and a company of Guardians and elite soldiers sailed aboard a frigate into the perilous waters along Icefia’s northwest coast.  They scaled the cliffs of black glass and for two days made their way inland.  On the third day they found the edge of the snow-wall and what seemed like a passage through it.  As they made their way in Ragorous, the Snowserpent, the white draco-lich that had ruled the lands of the far northwest for nearly one thousand years, attacked them from below.  Ragorous drove them back and slew many of the party.  Ari and Kerkly might have prevailed, but the snow-wall swept down on them and nearly buried them in the pass, but Moebius was able to force a path through the snow back to the cliffs.  They found the ship sunk and the shore party gone.  After that there were no attempts to force entry into Greysnows.

From then until after the Day of Broken Magic, there was no sign of Nilas’anor’s servants; but that did not mean Ari was idle, for the other evil powers were not idle.  As the world struggled to adapt to Iott’s reign, the servants of Dresta and Sutyr sought to exploit the strife.  In 795 Ari uncovered a plot by a group of wealthy men in Phiam, Sutyr worshippers, to betray the Kingdom to Iott.  Arion ordered a purge of Sutyr’s church with Ari and his followers at the lead.  During this time Ari gained a new counselor, Uljorn, an Ursinal Guardinial, who sought Ari out after word of his deeds spread among the servants of the upper planes.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 21, 2021, 09:29:09 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 21, 2021, 09:08:20 PM

I tried to name all 22, only got to 12
Ajax is too old by the end.
Even money on the wizards, specifically Russel. 
Even money on Haas.
Even money on whomever is at " The Low Bar" and "The Red Sky" being the epic end.
But my money is on Claude and some ridiculous wish.

I'm starting to lean towards Claude and not one of the wizards as the last one.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 09:30:17 PM

Gnax Redleaf (Whitesword, various)

The skilled gnome made his way around the world.  Sailing on ships of all types, he made his way from Kathow-tio-Horari to Layraedia to Port Talp to Yellowia and Icefia.  Looking to make his way as profitably as possible without running afoul of the law or getting into bed with particularly unsavory figures, Gnax found a good living during the Iott's reign.  There were many groups that needed to get things moved from place to place without any Iottan entanglements.  Not having a ship of his own, nor being a long-standing member of any crew, he took to the job of a bodyguard of valuable shipments.

Knowing his way around a ship and having a good idea of keeping things hidden in plain sight, Gnax got things where they needed to go.  Magic components the Iottians didn't want anywhere; people the Icefians didn't want on the continent; and all manner of things the Yinites forbade.  While he was notable for his talent, he managed to keep his name out of the books.  Often a person at one of the ports he frequented would call him, Ignoagnom.  Not the first gnome to use the moniker.

He used his relationship with the guild with no name to get things in and out of Port Talp.  He used his relationship with the Guardian of the Tides to avoid a couple close calls.  This successful formula continued for two decades.  If it isn’t broke, don't fix it.  He racked up a healthy savings and outfitted himself nicely, but not too much to draw the attention of the many looking for 'magic gluttons'.

His long lucky streak came to an end in Layraedia.  What should have been an easy task turned into a nightmare.  Unloading a pretty harmless case of wine, waiting for the buyer, he was approached by a curious Horarian.  The Horarian looked at him strangely and asked questions in a dialect and accent that was unfamiliar.  Gnax did his usual best to deflect and redirect, but the Horarian was insistent that he know what was in the box.  No matter what he tried, Gnax could not shake the strange man.  For him, the worst thing had arrived, lots of attention.

The next two hours were a nightmare.  Gnax thought he had the misfortune of encountering the most obtuse Horarian he ever had, or possibly the most genius thief.  Either way, and Gnax eventually came to the conclusion it was the former, that night he was in a Layraedian jail cell.  The accommodations weren't terrible, and his wealth remained safely in the bank, so as long as nothing terrible happened, he would be out in not too long to go about his life.

Fighter 2 / Rogue 4 / Marksman 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 21, 2021, 09:31:45 PM

Kerkly Andest, Keeper of Avoreen and Hero of the Light (DmD, Icefia, late of Dakon) (Part 1)

As the veteran of numerous battles with Nilas’anor’s servants, the events at Portet were not as dispiriting as they were for some of his allies.  There were undead to hunt and a city in chaos to aid, and for several weeks Kerkly was in his element; his long years of military service making him a natural choice to lead the reclamation of the city.  For the rest of 790, into the spring of 791, Kerkly, along with the Knights, clerics and Guardians set about purging the city, and immediate surround, of undead.  The army and constables, under High General Rosetree’s command, found shelter for those that would stay in the city and saw the rest safely out of the area.

After the city was cleared, a similar effort was made in the wilderness but with less success.  The undead were too dispersed and fled in all directions.  The Guardians left small groups of hunters in the wilderness for several years.  Kerkly’s friends Isolder and Alysa were placed in command of these groups.  During the following five years, as Iott ascended, there was no sign of any of Nilas’anor’s servants.  Kerkley made a pilgrimage to Mount Celestia and was revitalized in his devotion.  Before he departed, Kerkly became aware that he, Rubius and Benlin had become famous.  For Kerkly, this was nothing new, but for Benlin it was a shock.  Benlin spent as much time in the Vale as possible, though life in Havenhollow held great appeal.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 09:32:19 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 21, 2021, 09:08:20 PM

I tried to name all 22, only got to 12

There are at least two that there is little chance you'd get because they were either not often played or played long ago.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 21, 2021, 09:35:46 PM

Shaar, Captain of the Red Guard (Zunder, Icefia) (Part 1)

Following the Battle of the Broken Temple, Shaar remained in Portet with Ari and the Knights hunting the undead.  As they departed north to continue the hunt, Shaar was recalled to the Layraedian embassy to help with the evacuation.  After the delegation was safe, she sailed to Olan with the ambassador for an assessment of the situation.  In 792, Layraedia moved the embassy to Fort Pinceer, formally recognizing the former elven lands as part of the Kingdom.  Shaar returned with the delegation and was appointed commander of the embassy guards and deputy ambassador.

Shaar was required to spend much of her time in Fort Pinceer, but ambassador Mason recognized her skills were wasted merely guarding the delegation, and assigned her to assist Ari or the Guardians on many missions against the forces of Greysnows.  However, he also assigned her as a liaison to the Whiteknight family, the royal family of the Kingdom of the West. Many in the Kingdom, particularly in the Westlands, expected the elven lands to be added to the lands of the Kingdom of the West.  The Whiteknight family had served the Kingdom since its foundation, protected the borders in the north and west, and sacrificed greatly in all three conflicts with the Scaled Elves.   Furthermore, the elven lands were thousands of miles from Castle Gemblade, the elven leadership that remained were sharply divided, Syoinise Etch had disappeared, and the lands were becoming more dangerous than ever before.  The people abandoned their villages and resettled closer to the cities and towns.   The current King, Cyrus, was over 90 years old and had ruled the Westlands for nearly 60 years.  Cyrus was a legendary figure in the West, who had held his Kingdom together in the face of many challenges. He greatly admired those that had overcome adversity in their lives.  He would regularly summon Shaar and the ambassador, at first to try to improve his Kingdom’s position with Layraedia, but later just to regale Shaar and Mason with tales of his life and family. 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 09:38:58 PM

I will be editing most of the post to add level.  This is the level at the end of the post story, whenever that may have been in the timeline.

This is serve both as entertainment and practical for those characters that may show up as PCs or NPCs.  Don't feel obligated to level them out, but feel free to do so.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 21, 2021, 09:39:46 PM

Master Artist and Arch-Diviner, Asinjin Al'Davourin El'Toruk (DMD, Icefia) (Part 1)

After the battle Asinjin returned to Intoria, and in the years prior to the breaking of the Stones was seldom seen.  Ari and Parker sought his aid in the form of divinations and planning, but aside from efforts against servants of the evil Habololian powers, there were few opportunities to offer aid.  Asinjin did make the occasional appearance at the Bardic College to lecture and display especially important works.  Rumors, in the circles of prominent and powerful arcane spellcasters, was that Asinjin would soon open a location of the famous Magikowner shop in Magenthia.  This proved untrue.

Asinjin was already renowned as an artist and buyers came from far and wide seeking to commission work from him.  Asinjin established a network of contacts who would handle buyers at arms-length.  Asinjin correctly surmised that some of these buyers had unscrupulous interests and that some were servants of the Collector.  In 793, Asinjin was forced to relocate three times and in 795 he had a brief but violent confrontation with the covetous Slaad’s most fanatical followers.  After that Asinjin was out of contact completely.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 09:56:49 PM

Profit comes for City Cleaver

Perhaps no one took greater advantage of the aftermath of the Day of Broken Magic than Parker.  Of course, as he participated in the breaking of the stones, he was perhaps better prepared to do so than anyone.  Parker and his fellow relic hunters, his mentors Dean Hawklyn and Professor Vello-Shan, and Ben Dothan, the Ursinal of the Council of Ten, spent much of 797 through 799 scouring the world for items that they wanted to keep out of the hands of Iott or the Collector.  Parker, just slightly less altruistic than his fellows, became one of the wealthiest men in Icefia.  His fame (or infamy) increased commensurately.

His home in Phiam was the subject of several burglaries, by offenders ranging from the inept, amateur, criminals, to professional thieves from Icefia and abroad, to divine agents.  All of them failed, unable to overcome the mansion’s defenses and when necessary Parker’s timely arrival.  In Coustus 800 Parker would face a challenger determined to undo his greatest accomplishments.

By this time, the Collector’s faithful were among the most zealous on Habololy.  Determined to satisfy their master’s every wish, his agents were often in a race with the relic hunters. When they failed, they had to find another way to acquire the desired object.  Usually this meant barter, but some items had to be taken.  On the fateful day, Parker arrived at the mansion a few minutes ahead of the intruder.  Though he knew an attempt was imminent, he could not see the identity of his adversary until he arrived.  Parker was not surprised to see Profit, an agent of the Collector, arrive and begin to probe the defenses.

Profit, as one of the Collector’s most powerful servants, had an arsenal of magic items that would make most kings jealous.  As a proxy of the Collector, he was able to draw sorcerous power directly from his patron and had access to the mightiest spells.  Profit had prepared for Parker’s chronomantic abilities and knew that as a master bard he could bedazzle him with song.  Profit had heard tell that Parker was even a competent, if less than honorable, swordsman, and knew that he had formidable allies, in particular his wife, his two dwarven housekeepers and a stone golem.  Finally, he knew that, somehow, Parker enjoyed the favor of the High King of Iceifa, so any attempt would have to be quick and subtle.  In spite of these difficulties, Profit was sure he would succeed, for succeed he must; the Collector demanded City Cleaver, and so it would be delivered.

To his surprise, the front door of the mansion opened and a well-dressed dwarf emerged, one of the famed housekeepers no doubt.  “Master Profit, Professor Berko is expecting you and has prepared a selection of libations from the cellar.”  Sure that it was a trap, Profit warily followed the dwarf inside.  Parker was waiting for him at the foot of the grand staircase, seemingly unarmed.  Lightning quick, Profit produced a wand from an invisible summoning sheath and pressed it against the dwarf’s head.  “I have no desire to harm him or you professor (said with contempt), but I will have the sword.”  Parker, appearing concerned for his retainer’s wellbeing, gestured to the siting room, where Profit saw the blade laying across the outstretched palms of what was obviously the feared Furious Guardian.

Taking the dwarf as a shield, Profit attempted to retrieve the blade and realized it was three times his size.  He brought out one of his most minor items to summon an improved unseen servant and stood dumbstruck as it failed to activate.  He spun to face Parker, and the last thought that went through his mind, before the bullet from Parker’s priceless Whirlson pistol, was: “That’s a beautiful piece, it would make a wonderful addition to the collec . . .”.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 21, 2021, 10:14:08 PM

I guess the Rouges weren't doing as well in the living category as once thought.

I don't think that will be the last change.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 11:00:02 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 09:38:58 PM

I will be editing most of the post to add level.  This is the level at the end of the post story, whenever that may have been in the timeline.

This is serve both as entertainment and practical for those characters that may show up as PCs or NPCs.  Don't feel obligated to level them out, but feel free to do so.

If I get the exact levels wrong for what you envisioned, don't worry, the total level is what is important and if you let me know I can adjust.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 21, 2021, 11:04:17 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 11:00:02 PM

If I get the exact levels wrong for what you envisioned, don't worry, the total level is what is important and if you let me know I can adjust.

Is it safe to say you'll only be posting updated levels of the characters that lived?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 11:18:22 PM

Quote from: Malchia on January 21, 2021, 11:04:17 PM

Is it safe to say you'll only be posting updated levels of the characters that lived?

No, levels will be posted for everyone. If they are dead, it was the level they reached before they died.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 22, 2021, 09:34:13 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 21, 2021, 09:56:49 PM

Profit comes for City Cleaver

This just became my favorite story so far

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 22, 2021, 10:00:37 AM

Quote from: Valdis on January 22, 2021, 09:34:13 AM

This just became my favorite story so far

Have to be honest, I was rooting for Profit.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 22, 2021, 10:09:57 AM

I was rooting for mutual destruction like Wilham and Kovar.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 22, 2021, 10:15:21 AM

Quote from: Valdis on January 22, 2021, 09:34:13 AM

This just became my favorite story so far

Begs the question, what is everyone else's favorite story so far?

Master Po chimed in via text to me after binge reading the stories a few nights that Gansuhk's was his so far.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 22, 2021, 10:17:21 AM

Quote from: whitesword on January 21, 2021, 09:21:12 PM

(Professor) Parker Berko (Valdis, Icefia (among others)) (Part 1)

As Iott ascended, Robyn became increasingly nervous, almost paranoid and in 795, pregnant with twins...

Anyone want to play a Berko twin PC with me in the next era?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 22, 2021, 10:29:23 AM

Quote from: Hero on January 22, 2021, 10:17:21 AM

Anyone want to play a Berko twin PC with me in the next era?

I'm in,


I'm also interesting in a Veronkia brood story, or a Harrl brood

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 22, 2021, 10:54:28 AM

Quote from: Hero on January 22, 2021, 10:00:37 AM

Have to be honest, I was rooting for Profit.

Cold

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 22, 2021, 11:38:22 AM

Zalthor (Malchia, Icefia)

The wild bugbear lived a life matching his mental state.  Bouncing from place to place and joining with all manner of adventures for reasons both reasonable and not.  His time in Icefia lead to his death and the deaths of those that fought beside him.  This repeated itself time and again.

He would go back to Borkondof and find a good life as chief of a small village, and then it was leveled and he was killed during the days of Harrl's Rage when his legacy was stolen.  In Yellowia, he had a new life as a refugee but was convinced to join in on the attack against the Yellowian governor from Iott leading to the Day the Magic was Broken, where he again died.  Next, he was in the Great Forest as part of Razk's Raiders.  The raiders were successful, but other than Razk, the casualty rate was high.  On the Great Plateau, he was paid well to clear squatters off of settled land.  He met with an equally angry human and his massive hammer.  In Lowlas, where the tendrils of Iott did not reach, he rested for a bit.  But the call to action was strong in his blood and he could not rest long.  He traipsed through the swamps, hunting with lizardfolk who were keen to have a bugbear's skills.  Again, he was killed by the great serpents of Izhudan.  When the plagues came, he ignored them, shouting his immunity.  He died from three of them.

Zalthor's constant trips between life and death confused him at first but he grew so used to it that in his mind he became convinced that he was not dying.  His power was so great that he could not be killed.  A gremlin swami told him that only a great and rare weapon could kill him forever, one meant to kill only those like him.  Amused, greatly scarred, confident beyond reason, Zalthor traveled south to a new city that could experience his magnificence.

This place called Ermaneo, labeled by some as the birthplace of new deities, seemed a goof place for one such as himself.  There, he set about convincing everyone of his divinity.  For his efforts, he was given meals and lodging.  He assumed these people to be his worshippers giving him offerings, in truth, they were taking pity on the insane.  One night, a fierce lightning storm erupted.  For Zalthor, this meant that his time of ascension was at hand...

Fighter 4 / Berserker 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 22, 2021, 12:06:21 PM

Malek Trainer (Windblade, Palumbton)

After his successes in Palumbton and Barnstenagor, Malek tried several times to travel the world and find a place.  The Great Forest, Port Springs, Icefia, Yellowia, Amansky, and even Iott were places he visited and looked for adventure.  No place fit.  Life in Palumbton was so different.  The pace was slower, the life simpler.  As Malek aged and he himself grew more to understand life and slow down, he realized that he belonged in North Palumbton.  Even though its name was now North Liberty, was different, the people were similar.

By the age of thirty, Malek had a wife and a family.  He helped manage the affairs of the town and was known in Barnstenagor for his knowledge of creatures.  There would occasionally be an issue that would arise nearby, but typically just the presence of he and Koth would end the issue.  Arapnianian, ever by his side also happily found a mate and some of the smartest rodents around now lived around the town.

When magic was disrupted, Malek was concerned and offered to help any summoners learn that stopped by the town.  He thought to send messages on ships advertising his services, but Koth and the other town leaders advised against it.  Iott had visited and passed them over, Gneon and his rebels had visited, and found little interest.  Why invite danger?  So he agreed to aid those who happened to stop at the port, but not advertise.

Such was his life, that Malek never needed the most powerful spells that were denied him.  That vast majority of his time was now spent on mundane things; family and teaching.  His skills in things other than magic became in far more demand.  In his youth, Malek never considered this would be his role, but happiness and fulfillment found him nonetheless.

When Kallark was defeated, Malek heard reports of reprisals against wizards around the world.  Such was the scale that even in North Liberty the news was heard.  He sat down to consider that his home and his family were safe from these attacks because he had put away his spellcasting.  He didn't know exactly what to make of it, but it gave him some relief.

One day in 815, his old friend came knocking, adorned as he rarely was these day with his hammer on his shoulder.  He had a favor to ask...

Sorcerer 10 / Summoner 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 22, 2021, 12:44:31 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 22, 2021, 11:38:22 AM

Zalthor (Malchia, Icefia)

The wild bugbear lived a life matching his mental state.  Bouncing from place to place and joining with all manner of adventures for reasons both reasonable and not.  His time in Icefia lead to his death and the deaths of those that fought beside him.  This repeated itself time and again.

He would go back to Borkondof and find a good life as chief of a small village, and then it was leveled and he was killed during the days of Harrl's Rage when his legacy was stolen.  In Yellowia, he had a new life as a refugee but was convinced to join in on the attack against the Yellowian governor from Iott leading to the Day the Magic was Broken, where he again died.  Next, he was in the Great Forest as part of Razk's Raiders.  The raiders were successful, but other than Razk, the casualty rate was high.  On the Great Plateau, he was paid well to clear squatters off of settled land.  He met with an equally angry human and his massive hammer.  In Lowlas, where the tendrils of Iott did not reach, he rested for a bit.  But the call to action was strong in his blood and he could not rest long.  He traipsed through the swamps, hunting with lizardfolk who were keen to have a bugbear's skills.  Again, he was killed by the great serpents of Izhudan.  When the plagues came, he ignored them, shouting his immunity.  He died from three of them.

Zalthor's constant trips between life and death confused him at first but he grew so used to it that in his mind he became convinced that he was not dying.  His power was so great that he could not be killed.  A gremlin swami told him that only a great and rare weapon could kill him forever, one meant to kill only those like him.  Amused, greatly scarred, confident beyond reason, Zalthor traveled south to a new city that could experience his magnificence.

This place called Ermaneo, labeled by some as the birthplace of new deities, seemed a goof place for one such as himself.  There, he set about convincing everyone of his divinity.  For his efforts, he was given meals and lodging.  He assumed these people to be his worshippers giving him offerings, in truth, they were taking pity on the insane.  One night, a fierce lightning storm erupted.  For Zalthor, this meant that his time of ascension was at hand...

Fighter 4 / Berserker 4

This takes the prize for strangest so far.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 22, 2021, 12:57:02 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 22, 2021, 11:38:22 AM

Zalthor (Malchia, Icefia)

He's got 5 live(s), and 4 deaths counted in the statistic.  epic..

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 22, 2021, 03:17:19 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 22, 2021, 10:17:21 AM

Anyone want to play a Berko twin PC with me in the next era?

Sure, but I call dibs on "Profit Berko" who was named after one of Parker's most admired friends.  ;)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 22, 2021, 04:26:31 PM

Quote from: Malchia on January 22, 2021, 03:17:19 PM

Sure, but I call dibs on "Profit Berko" who was named after one of Parker's most admired friends.  ;)

Sounds more like the family pet ferret who inconceivably gets into places he shouldn't, as an homage to the person who got the closest ever to stealing from him.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 22, 2021, 11:29:46 PM

Koth Orcsmith (Hero, Palumbton)

By the time he had reached 25 years old, Koth had accomplished quite a lot in his homeland of Barnstenagor.  Freeing North Palumbton from the control of Palumbton, putting the dukes of Barnstenagor on notice, defeating the faithful of Sutyr in the volcano, and forming a nescient republic among the cities and towns of the area.  Having accomplished so much, Koth sought to make sure his efforts would outlive him and looked for other to fill his shoes and become the leaders of a republic that he was not.

He had first picked Kayla to lead, and although she was inspiring and well liked, she proved not to have the organizational skills required.  After many conversation and as much research as can be done in far off Barnstenagor, Koth decided to take a different path, one that might be better suited.  His models had been the Kingdom of Icefia and Yellowia, but perhaps what was better here was a looser organization.  Historians told him of two such entities, the Icefian Confederacy and the Plateau before the Tinkocracy.  Using those as ideas, he gathered the leaders of Barnstenagor at the Counsel of 790.  It took a year, but they leaders agreed on the format.  The Republic of Barnstenagor was officially born.

Several years later, as things moved smoothly thanks to Koth's shadow, Iott came knocking.  Koth readied for confrontation, sent messengers to the towns, and prepared for a great showdown.  It never came.  Iott left as soon as they had arrived, promising to one day return.  Some believed Koth scared them away, others that there was simply nothing of worth to the Iottians, but either way, they left and never returned.

Blessing Gnarion, Koth went along happy with the progress.  The event only helped maintain him as a figure of strength and one who kept the republic together.  There were many debates arguments and scuffles.  Several plots and plans.   But year after year, Koth stood tall and the sense that the republic was there to stay grew stronger.  When asked, Koth did join friends beyond the lands to fight some tyrant, but it was rare.  His connection to the land grew stronger with each year.  He aged faster the most.  He slowed.  He grew tired.  But he was content.

In 802, Sutyr betrayed the Counsil.  Koth saw this as reason to end all semblance of Sutyr with sight of Barnstenagor.  Finding common ground with Lench, the two crusadered for an area a hundred miles in all directions from the edges of the land.  Joined by Junior the Plainsrunner of Tommimao, Evan the Rabbit Guard, Henry the Nightengale, and Heath the Grovetender; the assembled clerics spent two years cleansing the area of any sign of Sutyr.  So complete was their effort, that no faithful of the now cultist ever stepped into their lands again.

The port of North Liberty became busier.  Ships sought to avoid the busy ports in the plague years.  With few ports of entry, the republic kept many of them out of the lands.  Those plague years strengthened the republic further.  Koth laughed at the 20 year anniversary when once bitter rivals joked as the misfortune of other lands.  It wasn't the best reason to bond, but when followers of Chaos, Dresta, Arsuranyodel, Gnarion and Habastly can share of meal and laugh, something must be right.

The defeat of Kallark brought a smile to Koth's face.  Palumbton had not face as hard times as many other lands, but still, a world without Kallark was less a threat than one with him.  Later that year, something more unexpected occurred.  Kasin, the enforcer of Allinvere, arrived to meet with Koth.  He reported that Lench was dead.  More shocking, the Avatar of Chaos had been defeated in a spell duel.  Kasin was now Duke, although it was not he that defeated Lench.  A new power rose, one that Kasin now followed, and its name is Re'Alpf.

Thankfully, Kasin changed little and this new power behind Allinvere did not make any moves.  Koth breathed a sign of relief.  The republic had now survived two significant changes in leaders, as the long time warlord of the cities of Kodollo’s Drain, Coineart, had died the year before.  It gave hope for the republic's survival.  Kayla had proved a capable leader when meetings were not strict on their format and the constitution of the republic remained straightforward.  Izza of Baegendown had taken over a militia organizer.  Carl from Hosterlee was the chairgnome in charge of leading meetings.  All was well.

In 815, word came to Koth of a mission he could not ignore.  A mission that even old orcish Koth must attend.  He collected his armor and weapons which had not seen serious use in five years.  He spent a week with his family, sensing it could be his last.  Then he went to see his oldest friend Malek.

Berserker 5 / Cleric 2 / Fighter 2 / Crafter 1 / Liberator 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 23, 2021, 08:44:47 AM

To whom it may concern:

Information researched near Palumpton by historians was suspect,
  - The Counsel of Barnstenagor was 790.. not 890 as stated in papers found in Palumbton.
  - Previous information collected in Icefea had Sutyr's betrayal in 803, (802 here) This might be more correct, and a real find?


Professor or History, Bardic College of Yellowia, Gnevets

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 09:35:24 AM

Quote from: Zunder on January 23, 2021, 08:44:47 AM

To whom it may concern:

Information researched near Palumpton by historians was suspect,
  - The Counsel of Barnstenagor was 790.. not 890 as stated in papers found in Palumbton.
  - Previous information collected in Icefea had Sutyr's betrayal in 803, (802 here) This might be more correct, and a real find?


Professor or History, TRUEHEART ACADEMY, Gnevets

Fixed it

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 09:36:57 AM

Later that year, something more unexpected occurred.  Kasin, the enforcer of Allinvere, arrived to meet with Koth.  He reported that Lench was dead.  More shocking, the Avatar of Chaos had been defeated in a spell duel.  Kasin was now Duke, although it was not he that defeated Lench.  A new power rose, one that Kasin now followed, and its name is Re'Alpf.


That ends one of my fan theories.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 23, 2021, 09:52:27 AM

Quote from: Zunder on January 23, 2021, 08:44:47 AM

To whom it may concern:

Information researched near Palumpton by historians was suspect,
  - The Counsel of Barnstenagor was 790.. not 890 as stated in papers found in Palumbton.
  - Previous information collected in Icefea had Sutyr's betrayal in 803, (802 here) This might be more correct, and a real find?


Professor or History, Bardic College of Yellowia, Gnevets

I fixed the 890, that was a typo not a clue.

It happened on the last day of the year, when it was one year in some placs and the next in other due to time zones?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 23, 2021, 12:45:44 PM

Have we encountered the name Re'Alpf before? I don't recognize it and I'm not sure if I'm supposed to.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 23, 2021, 01:05:53 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 09:36:57 AM

That ends one of my fan theories.

At the end of this, I would be curious to hear the fan theories everyone had.  But not until I'm done.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 01:49:35 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 23, 2021, 12:45:44 PM

Have we encountered the name Re'Alpf before? I don't recognize it and I'm not sure if I'm supposed to.

I don’t either but I’ve missed so much over the last few years. Certainly less villainous sounding than Lench.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 23, 2021, 02:56:20 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 23, 2021, 12:45:44 PM

Have we encountered the name Re'Alpf before? I don't recognize it and I'm not sure if I'm supposed to.

Well, I will say we've encountered him before, at least that's my theory.   You'll *SMH when you realize who.
Follow the trail, A power growing in Siot, Kallark destroyed...

 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 23, 2021, 04:14:44 PM

Aesculos “Ajax” Thanos (Whitesword, various)

After the battle in Portet, Ajax remained for several weeks trying to hunt the more powerful
undead, but with little success.  With the city largely abandoned, and the presence of so many knights and clerics, most of the powerful undead dispersed into the wilderness.  Ajax then headed north to probe Greysnows and assess the Strife Lands.  After weeks of
investigation, and several battles against fiends and undead, the party withdrew to the Guardian Vale.  After a brief rest, Ajax spent the next two years hunting undead and searching for Nilas’Anor’s servants in western Icefia.  With no sign of Uscis or Marius, and the undead avoiding him, Ajax felt a call to return to the Main Continent.  Rather than Gate, as time on the upper planes assert a strong pull on him, he rode the breadth of Icefia, stopping in the Vale, Colonye and Castle Gemblade.

The king Arion sought to bestow a knighthood on him, but Ajax declined, feeling it would be a breach of his vows.  He requested instead that a watchtower be consecrated to Stasis on the northern border of the Protectorate.  Arion, who is less tradition bound than his predecessors, bestowed the title of Knight-In-Merit on him anyway.  The Shining Tower is now the first line of defense against the evil in the north.  After a term counseling initiates at the paladin school, and a month in prayer at the High Temple of Stasis, Ajax returned to Southgate in Yellowia; where his quests began years earlier, seeking Gregory Steelblade and Hanai Winterstar.

Ajax found Southgate little changed from his visit years earlier. The hardy folk of the south went about their business with little care for the political scheming of the nobles.  Gregory and Hanai, now the parents of three, were content to protect the people of the south.
Hanai had fought at Castle Gemblade and Portet, but now accepted Yellowia as her home.  Ajax was frustrated by what he found, as he thought Gregory had been the first just ruler revealed to him by Stasis.  Still, unless Stasis directed him to shake them from their contentment, he had no reason to remain.  With a deep uneasiness, Ajax bid farewell to his fellow paladins and rode north.

What he found only further deepened his concerns.  The people of the Kingdom fared no better than when he left.  Though the Kingdom appeared more ready for the Mulataven, or the hordes of Borkondorf, Ajax could tell the common folk bore no love for their leaders and could easily have their spirit broken by a new war.  Resolved to help as best he could Ajax rode north, stopping in towns and villages to preach, heal and mediate disputes.  Along the way the signs and talk of Iott’s ascendance were common.  Though it concerned him, Ajax felt no call to take action.  Eventually he reached the small town where he had posted his letter of challenge to the government years earlier.  The townsfolk looked on in shock as the orc who had left decades ago and become a figure of legend, now returned to fulfill his promise.

After spending time in northern Yellowia, and incredibly frustrated that he cannot get satisfaction for the long unanswered slander, Ajax wrestles with the idea of riding to Saint Lawrence.  His time in Norhern Yellowia is one of the calmest of his life.  The people enjoy his presence.  As the king and the nobles battle of Iott's so called control of Yellowia, Ajax is able to keep one small section of the kingdom free from trouble.  On several occasions, the governor of Yellowia, a native by birth but having long lived in Iott before his return, sent warning to Ajax not to interfere with the nation.  Ajax dissmissed the warnings, but equally had no interest in affairs of state.  He only waited and hoped Stasis would direct him to a new ruler.

Word reaches him that Gregory and Hanai are seeking him and implore him to return to Southgate. Knowing they would not make such a request lightly, Ajax opens a Gate and travels to reach them quickly and safely.  Upon arriving he is surprised to find the Steelblade estate is on guard. Gregory receives him alone. “Word has reached us of a new threat. Assassins are at work, not only are they targeting paladins but they are killing the children of paladins and feyalin. They struck in the jungle and slew the daughter of Jaelata’linoan, the Feyalin of Treetop. They struck in Icefia against William Summerlight’s family but were not successful. Esetia of Magenthia, the Feyalin of Falan has not been seen for months. Escalon has ordered that no paladin associated with the Temple may travel alone. We cannot make the journey to Icefia or Pacyr but I beseech you to take Hanai and our children to Mydyr. In the summer of 795 Ajax and Hanai travel to Pacyr with her children and a small number of squires.

Knowing that taking small children into the upper planes could have long term consequences, Ajax and Hanai set out on the road to Pacyr with her children and a small number of squires. The road was long and not without challenges. Monsters, including bands of giants, had no concept or care for Ajax and Hanai’s reputation. They took the road through the Jungle in the hope that they could learn something of the assassins, but in his grief Jaelata’linoan had departed to seek revenge. Despite their mission to see the children to safety, the paladins could not set aside their vows, and along the way, particularly as they drew closer to the border of Hertopowlis, they defeated many who sought to exploit the chaos following the Day of Broken Magic. Still there was no sign of the agents of the dark powers. Their trip took them through Loahk, a place Ajax had never gone through before.  He was shocked to see the land of hundreds of kingdoms was thriving.  While poor in magic, they appeared better organized they he had been lead to believe.  He also heard talk of the leader, above the kings, Lord of the Plateau.  Had it not been for his mission, he would have stayed.  Just before reaching Hertoplowis, they heard word of the orcish crusade heading for Iott.  It would come this way soon.  Again, Ajax stayed the course despite the interest.  They passed through Hertopowlis with less difficulty than usual as the country was more concerned with Iott.

Upon reaching Pacyr, they learned that the assassins had already struck there. Aegis Malconroy was missing and many prominent knights and paladins had been slain, along with their families. Most believed the assassins were fiends, or vampires taking revenge for their long imprisonment in Portet, but Elizabeth Toppin, Stasis’ mightiest cleric and Guardian, was certain that they were neither. The orphans of the slain were given to the care of the High Temple of Hemator or the Radiant Shield of Stasis. With the family safely delivered, Ajax returned to Southgate via a Gate.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 04:57:37 PM

Rubius (Part 2)

Located in the fertile lands of southern Icefia, within trading distance of all the major cities of the eastern half of the country, but far from the conflicts in the north and the west, life in Havenhollow was idyllic by Halfling standards.  Even during the years where Iott struck directly against Icefia, Havenhollow was spared.  During the plague years, the mostly homogeneous Halfling community, with a higher ratio of shrines than many other towns, suffered less than most of their neighbors; though central Icefia on the whole was more fortunate than much of the rest of the world. The successful farmers and ranchers of the community provided food for much of the eastern half of the Kingdom as well.  King Oliver, and later the High King, visited the community to thank them for their contributions to the Kingdom and recognize Rubius’ leadership.

Still, life was not completely without worry.  Word of the terrible events around the world reached the community and from time-to-time Knights and Guardians would visit to check on Rubius and his family.  Iott struck directly against Icefia several times and the forces of Greysnows attacked in the north.  However, it was not warring nations or the dark powers that would bring sorrow to Havenhollow, rather something far older: strife between religions and cults.  Stories of the Halfling Heroes of Icefia had inspired those that founded the community and by 797 large shrines to the ancient halfling powers of Celestia and Hemator stood alongside the shrines of Habastly and Treetop.  Kerkley and Benlin would visit often, and though they did not actively seek to convert the residents, some were inspired by their example.  Among the halflings there was little conflict; those that followed the cult powers were seen as harmless at worst.  But word spread of the place where cultists and the true faithful lived in peace.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 05:06:31 PM

Parker (Part 2)

Following the destruction of the stones, fear of Iott subsided briefly, and Parker travelled the world, but soon news reached him of a more imminent threat.  Beginning in 797 word began to spread that the leaders and heroes of the world, and their families, were marked for death.  The first to fall was Esetia of Magenthia, the Feyalin champion of Falan.  Soon after the daughter and granddaughter of Jaelata’linoan, defender of the Jungle, a Feyalin of Treetop, were slain.  At first there was only speculation as to who or what was behind the killings; most suspected Iott, but they were in disarray at the time.  Thought turned to the King Taker, who had not been seen in a decade, but the victims had little in common with his usual targets.  In fall 798, the assassins struck the Summerlight estate in Icefia.  They were driven off and Sir William reported that the attackers were unlike any enemy he had ever faced.  They all but ignored his blade and though they had the form of men, they did not bleed or show fear. But they were not undead, or any sort of construct he had faced in his long life.  It was as if they were empty vessels.  Soon, word of the “Empty Men” made its way around the world. 

Parker wanted to assist in locating the assassins, but, as Iott’s power waxed once again, it became impossible for him to leave the College grounds for more than a few days.  Iott held him directly responsible for the destruction of the circle and between 799 and 803 there were nearly a dozen attempts to kill or kidnap Parker, and nearly as many against Robyn, by agents of Iott. 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 05:09:36 PM

Asinjin

In 797, with little warning, Asinjin was appointed Dean of the School of Creative Arts at the Bardic College.  Much to the relief of Parker and Russel, this meant he was not their direct superior.  Between 797 and 801, Asinjin occasionally left the College to check on his property in Intoria, but in late 801 Ajax sent word that the wizards of Iott greatly desired to capture him, for they believed that he was one of the few that could repair the Stones.

Asinjin spent much of his time researching the changes to magic and attempting to identify the nature of the Empty Men.  In a rare moment, he and Russel agreed that wherever the assassins came from, they had never been seen before. Whatever they were, they never dared to make an attempt to breach the College grounds.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 05:10:57 PM

Ari
In 798, two years to the day after the Day of Broken Magic, when it seemed there was an opportunity for peace, Ari was invited to a meeting.  The powers of Elysium had attempted to broker a truce between Celestia and Olympus.  The Council of Ten asked Ari, Amaras the Messenger and Ben Dothan, the Ursinal, to attend the negotiations on behalf of Habololy.  The meeting was attended by many you had met during the battle in the Outlands and its aftermath, but also by neutral parties from Eylsium and Bytopia.

At first the meeting went well, but near the end of what was to be the first day, representatives of Tyrogatrore arrived.  They demanded that Stronmus withdraw his blood oath against Tyrogatore and allow access to the Beastlands.  Their demand was not well received and the meeting dissolved.  As Ari and the Guardians attempted to return home, they found that Amaras could not pass.  The clerics of Tyrogatore accused all of them of negotiating where they had no power to do so.  Ari and Ben Dothan were protected by Tfop and Allanda, but Amaras was a worshipper of Arsur’anyodel, and a native of Arborea, who had come to Habololy before the ban.  Stasis and Arsur’anyodel pleaded for him to be allowed to return, but they were denied.  This led to tension between the faiths of Stasis and Arsur’anyodel and the powers that had opposed their request that persists to this day.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 05:12:30 PM

Kerkly (part 2)

Soon after he returned from Celestia, the Day of Broken Magic occurred.  For the Guardians this was a double-edged sword.  The mightiest spells were needed to summon the most powerful fiends, but similar magic was often needed to fight them.  This concern would soon be justified, as the agents of Greysnows would strike in the north and the west, and mysterious assassins began to strike around the world.  Word of these Empty Men stirred Kerkly’s mind; pulling at the edges of his memory.

In 801, as Iott reasserted its power, an event took place that had never before occurred in the history of the Guardian Temple: the warriors of the temple demanded an audience with the Council of Ten.  After a decade where evil seemed to advance and entrench, the warriors could no longer accept Anakova Brightsky’s message of pacifism.  For three days there was debate, and at its conclusion the clerics and paladins elected Kerkly as Master Clerist.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 05:14:11 PM

Shaar (part 2)

Despite the common expectations, and in the face of constant pressure from King Cyrus and the western nobles, Arion left High General Amana Rosetree as governor of the Protectorate until she was named Lord Protector in 799.  She was succeeded as governor by Metura Alayi, the beautiful but aloof Scaled Elven, Captain of the Knights.  Metura had been one of Marius’ first captives and the Adaptor that replaced her caused great mischief in the years it impersonated her.  Shaar developed a close relationship with both Amana and Metura, the two most accomplished female elven warriors in the Kingdom.  Both of them encouraged Shaar to accept an invitation to the Suian if it was offered, despite the fact that the competition was to be held in Iott.  Neither Amana nor Metura would be able to participate in 801 due to their obligations.  Amana had fought in 776 and was the highest female finisher.  She was a frequent sparring partner of Martine, and many of the other Icefian masters, and told Shaar with no reservations that she could win the Tournament.

Cyrus passed in 800, at age 99, and Shaar was in attendance at the funeral as the embassy’s representative.   Funerals for prominent people in those days were typically small, as all feared the servants of Iott or Greysnows would appear.  The funeral was held within the ancient Whiteknight estate, a few miles north of Fort Pinceer, deep within the Kingdom’s borders.  More than 400 attended, including representatives of all the lesser kingdoms and Gemblade line.  As the procession carried Cyrus to the family tomb, the assassins struck.  They walked out of the shadows of the courtyard, bypassing the mansion’s potent defenses.  At first, they all appeared to be Hunters of Men, in particular their feared Brethren, but as the defenders held their ground against the attack, it became clear among the enemy ranks were the Empty Men.  As the defenders were cut down, as they fell back to the tomb, Marius’ laughter could be heard emanating from the shadows.  Soon only Shaar, Alara Gemblade and Thanis Whiteknight stood between the assassins and the most defenseless guests.  For several minutes the three of them held the attackers at bey, until only the Empty Men remained.  While the skill of the defenders far exceeded the assassins’, their bodies began to flag, while the Empty Men were tireless.  Thanis, knowing he could fight only a minute or two longer pushed Alara and Shaar into the tomb and cut the rope holding the gate.  For the rest of the long night Shaar and Alara waited for the attack to resume, but in the morning the gate was opened they saw Arion, Ari and Nisoru in the courtyard with a host of paladins and knights.  Only two children of the Whiteknight line survived the attack, and only fifty attendees.  Days later, Arion renamed Pinceer, Fortress Whiteknight.  The children were taken to Castle Gemblade as royal wards.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 23, 2021, 06:08:57 PM

Ajax part 2

Soon after, Ajax's prayers were answered and he received a calling from far off Kathow-tio-Horari.  The religion of Quan Yin, since disassociating from the Shalleshe, had moved to form a government which did not involve the pirates at all.  Now, having completed the task, they requested the agent of Stasis, bearer of his light, kingmaker, to come and bless the new leadership of the nation.  Having just gated, and not wanting to again, he was nonetheless compelled to not engage in a long sea voyage and left quickly for the islands.

Once there, he was treated to a land of milk and honey.  The beauty and peace was unmatched on Habololy.  For moments, he thought he was on an upper plane.  It was awkward being the only orc.  Children pointed and laughed, cloistered females scurried away.  There were few warriors to speak to, and the paladins did not carry weapons, nor wear much armor.  He found eager conversation from diplomats wanting to know of the world that was somewhat cut off from Kathow.  The ceremony itself was not overwhelming.  The official appointment of the Queen would be held at another time, and it turned out that Queen was a title without the traditional family lineage rules.  The nation had decided that the Mother of Quan Yin, the high cleric should not be the head of state as well.

Before the event, Ajax met with Ajinta Kuhami, who would be named queen.  A tall Horarian with great poise, her presence was commanding, her voice strong.  The Kingmaker did not hesitate to approve, both Ajax and the sword.  The Icefian diplomat, the high cleric of Stasis for Kathow, and the queen's family were present, along with several Yinite attendants.  After the knighting, Ajax was invited to stay and enjoy the festival in honor of the new Queen.  He agreed.  Also in attendance was the voice of the Golden Mother, the lizardfolk Sas.  The two could not be more different and the strange air the brewed when the met caused the room to shutter.

Shortly before the ceremony finished, a ceremony which took three days, there was an attempt made to kill the queen.  Had Ajax and Sas not been in attendance, it would have not succeeded.  But as the pirate force was not prepared for those two, the effort could fairly be called comical.  There were no Horarians killed, and even only two assailants in of two hundred were slain.  When it ended, the festival began.  Ajax enjoyed life as he had rarely before.  When Sas' time to leave came, he invited Ajax to visit him at the palace of the Golden Mother.  A year, perhaps two later, the time came to leave.  Horari proved a fine place and Ajax spent time in the mountains teaching the few martial paladins.  They named a tower in his honor and he promised to return.

Getting to the palace of the Golden Mother proved a challenge.  Ajax was concerned about getting there via gate for several reasons, and no ships that he knew of would make the trip.  He should have thought to ask Sas to have a dragon carry him. Even if he summoned a creature, it would not know the way.  After some time, he was told of one ship that would make the trip, the Guardian of the Tide.  It was sent for and arrived.  The smiling crew including a assortment of suspicious characters.  Weirdly shaped fey, a drow first mate, a shifty mage, a foppish captain and by Stasis' rarely used hammer, another orc!  What curse had been lain upon his brethren that would have forced him aboard a ship for years?  Ah, he was a half orc.

The trip was thankfully swift.  The sea nor the crew appealing to Ajax.  Competent and smart, they certainly lacked enough sense to be traveling in such a resplendent vessel.  Ajax worried clowns and their prize would soon be parted.  But then again, he felt that was about most sailors, so he tried not to hold it against them.  Spending that much time at sea might have the same effect on him.  His arrival at the palace was not the reaction he often received.  The dragons were not as impressed and while polite offered no pomp and circumstance.  He spend time conversing with Sas, and by extension the Golden Mother.  After some months there, he sensed the Kingmaker drawing him south.

A dragon named in the common tongue Firelight, gold in color, was offered / assigned / told to fly Ajax to his destination.  Flying was somewhat better than sailing, but the stops on small islands were dull and uncomfortable.  The dragon dropped Ajax off south of Layraedia, where he would not be seen and bid Ajax farewell.  Following the sword, he went north.  His time in Ekarude was eventful and spanned several years.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 23, 2021, 06:29:38 PM

“ by Stasis' rarely used hammer, another orc!”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 23, 2021, 07:40:51 PM

Ajax part 3

From the moment he arrived in Layraedia, Ajax picked up a shadow.  The gnome followed him from a distance and Ajax would deal with him after he found a place to stay.  No one else was waiting for him, the nation had not known of his coming.  He received some strange looks and pleasant greetings.  It took him a few days of questions and directions to find where he was going.  The towns and cities were small, and he made his way through ten of them before coming to Hecten, a town of several thousand.  There, the sword lead him to a young man by the name of Virgil.  Suspicion turned to calm and the man soon accepted Ajax's help.  It was Ajax who was surprised to learn that the man was no king, prince, or in line for any throne.  He was running to be president of the republic of Layraedia, and he could use Ajax's help.

Before aiding Virgil, Ajax confronted his shadow.  The gnome did not flee as he walked up the hill to meet him.  Sitting on rocks, crossbow on his back and hip boots revealing his origin, the gnome smoked a pipe.  Ajax announced himself and demanded a response.  The reply was quick and direct, "Call me Gnayjax, I've been assigned to watch you.  I don't doubt you can kill me with ease, but I'd rather you didn't.  I'm only here to keep track of you.  If you let me live, I might even give you some guidance."  Ajax didn't like it, but saw no recourse other than to keep an eye on the gnome.

With Ajax in his corner, Virgil's path to winning the presidency was easier.  It took months, but he was successful.  Others came to know that Ajax was helping, but as there was nothin wrong with receiving advice and guidance, it was allowed to pass.  Some argues that Icefia's meddling was not appreciated, but Ajax made it clear it spoke for Stasis, not Icefia.  It was a hard argument to make.  Once he was president, Virgil offered positions to Ajax, who declined.   Ajax spent a few months longer in Layraedia before the sword drew him south again.

Riding now, Ajax was still followed by the Gnayjax, who somehow managed to keep pace.  Although the sword did not lead him there, Ajax stopped when he saw a tower.  He didn't want to, but he thought he would test his shadow.  "The Iron Tower.  It appeared here years ago and is inhabited by strange Horarians.  Probably not unfriendly to you."  Testing the gnome, Ajax approached and soon learned the truth was not far from what Ganyjax had said.  Spending several weeks with the inhabitants, Ajax got back on the road and heading into the wilds of Ekarude.

Gnayjax proved invaluable when traveling through the tribes.  Koofa, Seveeni, Nohskites, Outenne, and on and on.  Gnayjax wasn't an expect, but he knew enough to avoid the unfriendly ones and help Ajax get to where the sword lead, to the Koofa tribe.  At war and killing each other for years, the tribe was on the brink of breaking down.  Nearby tribes had begun to take their land.  Ajax learned that only his intervention in ending the struggle and appointing a ruler could stop coming genocide of the Koofa.  The months of interactions were ripe with awkward and confusing moments.  Gnayjax had many a laugh at and with Ajax.  Finally, he found the target of the sword, an older man that had been blinded by plague.  With Stasis help, he helped the man see again.  The blessed made the tribe take notice.  The wise words of Ajax and the man, Bowdi began to sway the tribe.

As things were turning around, word came that the Nohskites were on the march.  Not wanted their enemies to unite, they wanted to claim a swift victory.  Ajax rode out and gave warning to the approaching horde, and they ignored him.  The Battle of the Lighted Orc was the tribes would come to call it was a sound victory for Ajax and the Koofa.  None on the battlefield came near to matching Ajax.  It took only an hour before the battle was over.  Relatively few died.  Several times, Ajax saw a bolt kill a charging tribesman.  There was only one crossbow on the field of battle.  The battle over, Ajax was successful again.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 23, 2021, 08:29:59 PM

Ajax, part 4

Ajax traveled north, slowly.  He waited for the sword to direct him again.  Time was hard to gauge here.  The tribesmen did not use a system that Ajax knew, and even Gnayjax had a different calendar.  "My people don't' recognize the dates of lesser races and nations." he joked.  Ajax thought he might actually know, but decided not to press as the gnome had proven not to be vile.  When the sword called him again, it lead west, toward Yellowia.  Excitement welled in Ajax as he thought this might finally be the time when he would get to finish what he started decades before.

Departing Ekarude was difficult.  No dragons, no ships.  As he aged, he knew gating for travel was more dangerous, but he had no other choice.  Gnayjax went through the options with him, and there seemed none other than a gate.  Bidding farewell to his unexpected companion, Ajax stepped into a gate.  Gnayjax had a great smile as he waved goodbye.

Celestia called to him as he traveled.  Time was slow and the longing to stay great.  But Ajax nonetheless managed to return, appearing in the fields of yellow grass that told him he was where he wanted to go, ready to find Yellowia's new monarch.  But in the sunny fields, he was surrounded as soon as the gate closed.  It was an odd sensation that told him he did not appear as directly as usual.  Assembled around him was a collection not to be dismissed.

Ten hill giants formed a ring.  Between them archers, mostly elven and half.  Mounted behind the, lighthorsemen with bow and lance.  Flying above, Knights on Hippogriff.  Beyond the ring, two individuals, both human and late into middle aged, neither armored.  Ajax announced himself and demanded they get out of his way.

"As governor of Yellowia, I cannot allow that.  I know what you are here to do and I will not let that happen.  Sadly for you, I cannot allow you to leave either.  Surrender is not in your vocabulary, so this time we have been speaking has only allowed us to tighten the net around you."  Ajax was assailed by all manner of attacked, physical, magical and mental.  His prowess was near uncharted, but with time and Iottian planning, the force assembled against him had charted every move.  Cut off from the planes, his resistances removed, his attacks absorbed by non-evil giants, darkness opening up to dull his spells and mental traps distracting him, mighty Ajax was subdued.

In his stupor, he heard the governor say, "Unfortunately, you are unkillable.  So I apologize, but we have to put you in a place that is removed.  Don't worry, we don't abide torture, so we have put some other orcs there to keep you company."

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 23, 2021, 10:26:37 PM

Marcus Stormlight (Valdis, wizards)

At first a rival of Lyla, he became an ally after the tournament where they battled.  At her request, he traveled to an alien world.  When he returned, he fought to protect magic.  For his efforts, he was made governor of Yellowia, his homeland.  Not a better choice could have been made in his mind.  The first governor, while talented in arcane magic, did not understand the Yellowian life well enough.  The ins and outs of the nobility, the style of the king, the life of the simple farmer.  Marcus when all of these well when he left, and it was part of the reason why.

Back and in command, despite what the king may have thought, he dealt with the nobles adeptly.  He managed to keep Iott's interested and the interests of arcana at the fore.  He turned aside Gneon's advances.  He kept the Borkondof hordes at bay.  His direction and leadership went unrivaled among the governors.  He knew it was true, and Lyla told him as much to dismiss any doubts he might have.

A master of magics of lesser power, he thrived where those that relied on the big spell failed while magic was broken.  Yellowia never fell in with the rebels and doubters were made aware of their foolishness.  He identified and recruited new spellcasters, enlisting the college to help.  For 15 years, he was in charge.  Governor of Yellowia, master of the fields.  It was then he was faced with his greatest challenge.

The Iottian Protocols were given to all of the governors Iott installed.  They were a booklet on how to deal with the worlds most dangerous individuals.  These were not allowed to be read under pain of demagiking until the time when one of the individuals arrived in the nation of the governor.  Marcus was alerted to the arrival of one such individual and sprang into action.  The only thing worse than prematurely opening the protocols was to fail in implementing them.  Ajax, Servant of Stasis, Bearer of his Light, Kingmaker, was on his way.  Marcus opened the protocols and put the plan into action.

With every ability of Iott at his disposal, since the protocols were in play, Marcus assembled the necessary agents for the plan.  For Ajax, whose goal was to name a new king, one that would undoubtedly prove superior to King Alawin, Marcus would be able to enlist the aid of several nobles who did not want a stronger king.  Doing this, calling upon the military, and the king himself, who also did not want to be replaced; Marcus was the master manipulator.

The plan in place, Ajax arrived and with no meaningful problem, he was subdued.  For one like Ajax, that was only the first issue.  He had to be place somewhere he would neither die nor be found.  Yellowia had one such place, a prison plane aptly called Banishment.  The difference was, once Ajax was there, no one would be allowed out of it.  And so Marcus sent the much ballyhooed orc away.  Praise and glory was his and Yellowia remained the best run governor state in the world.

For five more years, he was in control.  Even after the defeat of Kallark, he maintained Yellowia and kept order.  He was the best there was.  As he liked to do, Marcus read the Shouting Gale all the way through.  Many times, he corrected it and every issue had several corrections ordered by the governor.  Today was no different, except the error was blatant and ridiculous.  Someone would lose the job over the headline, "Governor predicts Iottian withdraw."  He teleported soon after to the college.

The first arrow defeated his displacement, and he was unphased.  The second defeated his resistance, and he was unmoved.  The third defeated his invulnerability, and he paused.  The fourth defeated his replay, and he grew concerned.  The fifth defeated his breath and he gasped.  He could still hear.  A bowstring pull and curse in southern Yellowian.

The students found the governor dead, stripped of most of his possessions, three arrows scatted around him, one in his back, one through his throat and one in the back of his head.  The last had gone in until it hit a metal skull halfway up the shaft with the arrow through the eyes.

Sorcerer 9 / Studious Sorcerer 9

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 24, 2021, 12:14:20 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 23, 2021, 10:26:37 PM

Marcus Stormlight (Valdis, wizards)

The first arrow defeated his displacement, and he was unphased.  The second defeated his resistance, and he was unmoved.  The third defeated his invulnerability, and he paused.  The fourth defeated his replay, and he grew concerned.  The fifth defeated his breath and he gasped.  He could still hear.  A bowstring pull and curse in southern Yellowian.

The students found the governor dead, stripped of most of his possessions, three arrows scatted around him, one in his back, one through his throat and one in the back of his head.  The last had gone in until it hit a metal skull halfway up the shaft with the arrow through the eyes.

Sorcerer 9 / Studious Sorcerer 9

Sounds like the work of Ash.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 24, 2021, 12:52:08 PM

Quote from: Malchia on January 24, 2021, 12:14:20 AM

Sounds like the work of Ash.

Sounds a bit like Rin mixed with Ash.  Specialty death arrows maybe?  This is were we figure out the DM takes all our good ideas over era4, and combines them like voltron into a super villan

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 24, 2021, 01:29:58 PM

As I near the end, it is harder and harder to put the stories in an order that doesn't spoil a future one, so my apologies if that happens.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 24, 2021, 02:19:29 PM

Cloud (Windblade, wizards)

The Day the Magic was Broken was a hard day for Cloud.  His return to Habololy marred by a battle with former friends that lead to the destruction of magical power, he went home to the Bardic College after the battle.  It took a while to get acquainted with the world again, but at least Cloud and his friends had been through this before and had a grasp of what to do.  Under a decade gone was far different from the centuries of their last absence.  Melodi had accepted deification.  Iott was in complete control until his return, but even now they were in power.

Cloud's instinct was to jump into the fray, go after Iott now as they reeled from the weakening of Magic.  A great debate ensued between those eager to end the war and those that preached caution.  The change in magic effected everyone.  No one was sure how Iott was effected compared to others.  Some magic was worse off than other magic.  Of the wizards three, Cloud was the most eager.  Russell was broken in a few ways and was little help.  Luigi seemed depressed and cooked a lot, and was also enamored with Melodi's status.

Cloud looked for allies.  For the next year, he traveled frequently, talking to those that were also eager to end Iott's reign quickly.  But disappointment was around every turn.  There was a new, more involved sect of Lakius, a religion which had appealed to Cloud for obvious reasons.  But the high cleric was aligned with Iott and the other sect leader, Nathan, was far more concerned with his religion than some great war against Iott.  The winged elven deity Taivas Valtias was not interested in a war either, seemingly having come to a truce with Iott.  From place to place, the only ones that matched his eagerness were orcs, dwarves, and tinkers.  So he aided them.  Joining as a consultant in the crusade lead by the orcs, Cloud was confident in success.

The plan was good, and Cloud delivered on the impossible, he parted the sea, allowing the crusaders to cross into Iott.  Flying above the army, ready to take on Iottian defenses, Cloud was suddenly struck by assaults he did not think possible.  The defense was lead by Lyla herself, as was appropriate for the Marshall of Iott.  In full battle regalia, in all her glory, Cloud knew despair.  The weakening of magic was not enough.  The veil pulled from Cloud's eyes, he felt foolish for his part in the crusade.  Whatever the case, by his own mistake or by the design of the Marshall, this was going to fail.  Cloud went into action to save the army.  He was met by a quartet of Iottian arcanists.  The magically identical to view casters blocked his way and moved in for the kill.  Cloud was no match for four of them.  His allies in the army was occupied.  He smashed one of them with blasts of wind.  He turned the spells of another back on himself.  The odds were insurmountable.  The choice was soon to die there or live to fight another day.  A devastated Cloud fled.

Back at the tower, he avoided others. He didn't know if they knew he had been at the battle.  His mind was tormented by thoughts of the experience.  He was infected by grief and thought surely there was a component of enchantment from Lyla that was causing this pain.  Months passed, and Cloud could do little of use.  There was nothing in his control it seemed.  As he had once before, he decided to leave for a while.  Into the sky, into the stars, he would wander there to find himself and return better off...at least he hoped.

There among the stars...

******REDACTED*******

...pain and anguish racked his body as he fall.  The sky was shook with energy and lightning.  How long had it been since he left, he didn't know.  This was not quite the return he had hoped to have, but if he could just survive the landing, he would probably be okay.  The uncontrolled decent seemed to take forever, it was frightening but exhilarating.  Cloud thought he saw the lights of a city below, but at this speed, it was hard to tell.

Although most thought it was an incredible thunderclap, in actuality it was the splashdown of a person hitting the water not far from a heavily crowded tavern called the Low Bar.

Wizard 10 / Elemental Caster 10 / Archmage 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 24, 2021, 02:29:47 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 24, 2021, 02:19:29 PM

Cloud (Windblade, wizards)


******REDACTED*******

I might be a little biased because it is my character but I love this!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 24, 2021, 02:53:33 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 24, 2021, 02:19:29 PM

Cloud (Windblade, wizards)

Although most thought it was an incredible thunderclap, in actuality it was the splashdown of a person hitting the water not far from a heavily crowded tavern called the Low Bar.

This was no where close to what I was expecting.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 24, 2021, 02:58:44 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 24, 2021, 02:19:29 PM

Cloud (Windblade, wizards)

 Luigi seemed depressed and cooked a lot, and was also enamored with Melodi's status.

Era 4 - Fat Luigi...  +6 overalls of intelligence.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 24, 2021, 08:08:25 PM

Russel Hargrove (Whitesword, wizards)

After the Battle of the Broken Temple, Russel spent a few fruitless weeks attempting to scry the servants of Nilas’anor at the behest of the Knights and the Kingdom.   When he had exhausted his options, he devoted himself completely to finding a way to repair the Stone of Chronomancy.   By 793 he was sure that it could be done but found his attempts to access the circle blocked.   Especially frustrating was the indifference of the Church of Smofarf.   Russel had never been an especially devoted follower of Smofarf, and following his imprisonment by Nilas’anor, he had drifted towards the powers of the upper planes, but the church’s obvious complicity with Iott marked the beginning of the end of his adherence to Smofarf’s faith.

Equally unhelpful and unsettling was the absence of his two long time friends.  He had not seen them in years, longer than ever before in his life.  He had not been able to find them either.  The failure here compounded his frustration and his state of mind.  His excitement at seeing them return was dampened by the timing of that return.

Russel was taken by surprise by the opposing forces on the Day of Broken Magic.    The breaking of the Stones broke Russel’s spirit.   Already denied access to several schools of magic by his concentration in Chronomancy, Russel was at a greater disadvantage than perhaps any other archmage after the Day of Broken Magic.   While his friends were eager to talk to him and spend time, he withdrew. For more than a year he lived in seclusion. None of his colleagues could coax him out of his despair. It was finally Allanda that forced into out of his doldrums and back into some level of activity.

Russel had always been devoted to Allanda and it was only because of their friendship and her wishes that he did not worship her.   As Smofarf had abandoned the cause of good and Allanda clearly intended that he set upon a different path, Russel journeyed to the Guardian Vale.   He had sought counsel there after his release from Nilas’anor’s domination, and had received direction from Aezir, the proxy of Jazirian, the mighty power of the couatl.   Under the tutelage of the sect’s mystics, Russel began a journey inward, to unlock his psionic potential.   With his nearly unparalleled intellect, the studies came easily to him.   He returned to the College in 802.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 24, 2021, 09:43:23 PM

Sergeant Quorl (Master Po, Constables)

After the Severing, Quorl remained in his position as liaison until 790 when all the prior members of the Scaled Elven military and constables’ service were given the option of formally joining the Kingdom’s service.  Quorl considered retirement but could not ignore the plight of his countrymen. He was formally promoted to sergeant.

During the Battle of the Shattered Temple Quorl protected the residents of the city and escorted them out of the section of the city affected by the fire storm.

As reconstruction began, the local officials quickly recognized Quorl’s leadership abilities and promoted him to watch commander. Leading up to the turn of the century, Quorl ably policed the city. Respected by both the law abiding and professional criminals, he became one of the city’s best known officials. He was also regular attendee at Roland Kenai’s dojo and established a professional but friendly relationship with him.

Quorl would need all of the good will he had accumulated during the plague years and in the aftermath of the Day of Dust. For many Scaled Elves, isolated from the eastern lands by dangerous seas and even more forbidding wilderness, believed that the Crown treated the Protectorate as an afterthought during those challenging times. Quorl and his constables uncovered several plots by agents of Greysnows to so discord, but convincing the people that the Kingdom was doing all it could was difficult and stirred up old resentment.

In 810 a new movement began in the Protectorate. Elves calling themselves the Unconquered Alliance began spreading propaganda and inviting young Elves to join them in their secret strongholds in the Strife Lands. Some of them claimed kinship with the Wyros family that had led the Scaled Revolt. Worse, in 812, they began to claim they spoke for Syoniese Etch, who had not been seen in more than twenty years. Quorl had served directly under Etch and was sure the Warlord was not behind this.  By 813 more than 1000 young Elves had disappeared and Quorl could not stand idly by. He petitioned the Governor to release him from his duties to lead an investigation. Instead, just before the end of 813 Udarin Thate and Vasili, the Kingdom’s most respected investigators arrived and the three of them departed Portet to begin the hunt.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 24, 2021, 11:31:33 PM

15 left...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 25, 2021, 12:01:51 AM

Luigi Wonderword (Zunder, Wizards)

Returning to Habololy after many years, into a battle of epic proportion that ended in his spellcasting abilities being severely hampered, Luigi decided...he would take a nap and cook and eat.  So much had changed.  Allanda was now a full fledged deity, Iott was more powerful than any time since the reign of Bart, Icefia fought a war in the west...well that one happened all the time.  He would have to figure out how magic was different now.  Would food taste the same?

He went to talk to Cloud, but he seemed to be intent on crusade.  He went to talk to Russell, blah blah blah, end of the world.  He went to talk to Allanda, wait a deity.  Where were is apprentices?  Serving Iott, left for the forest.  Everyone had gone crazy.  As far as Luigi could tell, the world was in pretty good shape for all the changes.  There wasn't any great wars.  Iott's reign, controlling as it may have been, saw an incredible boom in trade, health, and peace.  His trip to the market told him that there were babies everywhere.  No wonder, Quan Yin appears to have moved her faith in a better direction.  Good for everybody.

Who was this Gneon character?  Another want to be tyrant, or a do gooder revolutionary hero?  Probably both.  Marshall Lyla, quite the sight.  No one seemed to be at Home anymore, Luigi looked.  No sign of that Lemugem fellow or his crazy family.  Good news.  Turns out that the day he left was now called the Day of the Scorpion.  The whole world named a day in honor of losing him to another world, at least that was one way to look at it.  Cool name, it needs a recipe to be served annually on that day, one of course involving scorpions.

At some point, a tower arrived in Ekarude.  A whole new world of songs and foods to explore.  He heard that the goodly wyrms had retaken control of the unknown.  The Great Forest war had ended with a treaty.  Iott had neutered the evil forces in western Icefia.  The pirates had finally been cut off from Kathow-tio-Horari.  Baernl wasn't under the control of Sutyr.  Lakius' religion was drifting away from isolation.  Falan had removed his dark half.  Why was everyone so somber an dour?  Insanity!

After a time, Luigi decided that his people had the right idea.  Amansky remained out of the fray, above it.  They saw the world in a better light.  He spent at least half of his time there.  Without his friends an Allanda and having been away for almost a decade, the college and the tri-tower weren't the same.  Parker and Asinjin, who were spending more time there, greedy and grumpy.  Somewhat to his surprise, despite that, he was offered the role of dean of magic.  Luigi waffled...then pancaked, then toasted, before making a decision.

He would be dean on several conditions.  The college accepted, and for a time, he was dean.  But it did not suit him.  Amansky and the life there were more appealing.  Cloud never returned.  He felt old, different.  There was as growing sense that despite his appearance, his age was far greater than those around him, and the difference seemed to expand yearly.  After only a few years, he resigned.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 25, 2021, 12:21:31 AM

Luigi part 2

His time in Amansky was wonderful.  The rest of the world may be on its head or off course, but the residents of the nation were on track.  The Academy of Magic and Song was magnificent, and he was given a residency there.  Teelia, the headmistress and distant relative of Luigi was welcoming.  The cello master, Lucindia, courted Luigi endlessly.  Life was a grand festival!  Agents of the world would contact the great wizard, asking for him to join the effort against Iott.  Luigi would have none of it.  The world was not burning, and the forces of Drunnbar and the tinkers were not the allies he wanted to go die for.

His illusion was shattered during Le Settimane Del Terrore.  Iottians terrorists defiled the jungle.  Luigi was sad that it came to an end.  He had convinced himself it would last a lot longer.  It still could.  Amansky would likely continue as it had been, and he could live here forever.  It took years more for Luigi to leave, but he prepared as he did.  With his cousin, and allowing no one outside Amansky to see, they found a way to use song to allow them to cast spells which was not typically castable in these times.  Once there, he now only needed a way to put it into the best use.

His request was answered by a man Luigi had not seen in decades who wandered seemingly by accident into the academy...

Bard 5 / Wizard 10 / Arcane Singer 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 25, 2021, 08:08:07 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 25, 2021, 12:01:51 AM

Luigi Wonderword (Zunder, Wizards)
 Luigi waffled...then pancaked, then toasted, before making a decision.

* drops mic

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 25, 2021, 02:29:08 PM

Claude Greymander III (Master Po, Seas)

The life of the lucky, sailing, dragonslaying, wishing, alchemist was one that he would have hoped for following the return of the Golden Mother to the dragon throne in the unknown.  Mostly retiring to the small town north of Port Talp that he called home, Claude took care of his family.  Oddly, this included both his blood relations and the many unclaudes that had come into existence.  Surely, that hadn't been his doing.  Some force must have recognized the power in Claude and done some devious experiments to make more of himself, but bizarrely failed and these handsome, intelligent, but less powerful versions were the result.  It was hard to keep track, so he kept a notebook:

•   Ice Gnome, Gnandgrey Cloud - single minded, stubbron
•   Jungle elf, Kanga Jivishvu - umm...I'm not female
•   Vishtoo, Grey Cloud - keep away from children
•   String mountain dwarf, Klendar Greystone - really shouldn't live near the sea
•   Orc, Claudis Grisio Ambulant - doesn't age well
•   Halfling, Clud O’mander - aren't they supposed to be good cooks
•   Gatori, Klad Gutmanger - don't make him angry
•   Gree, Klava Seriyahser - organizes everything
•   Nipit, Claudio Vaygar Grigio - better singer than alchemist
•   Gremlin, Clam - always hiding

While suspecting there might be more, they may have sadly never made it to Claude.  He would try to find them from time to time, then a kid would call for his help.  If he wasn't with the kids, he was working in the lab.  Always working in the lab.  Luckily, when help was needed somewhere, one of the unclaudes was happy to go an help.  Claude himself would be sure to send a note letting those expecting him know that this was in fact a member of Claude's group and they were there to help.  Of course, Claude would not send them out until they had been properly trained.  For Clam, that meant never.

One time, during the reign of Iott, a poor unfortunate dragon came calling.  Hoping to score fame and fortune, it was met with swift death.  Such became the reputation of Claude and his group that for twenty year more the Greymander did not taste draconic blood.

Called into service by Tfop, Claude did participate in the breaking of the stones.  While there were many names given to the day, Claude always liked Freedom from Magical Tyranny Day.  It never caught on anyway except his home town.

Having done his part, Claude again went home and lived a peaceful life.  The unclaudes did their part around the world. Claude occasionally heading into the city to conduct business.  His long time friend Agniclair kept him up to date on events.  When the Guardian of the Tides came to port, he would try to make it to see the ship and crew, but often mistimed things and missed them.  Sometimes, he draconic friends would visit, but it was not often.  Their lives were measured in centuries and what they thought of frequent visits was not what he thought.

When the plagues came, Claude feared for his town and brewed endless potions to keep it safe.  Sadly, several of the unclaudes died from the plagues as they went out and about to help the world combat them.  As reports came in and time passed, Claude looked long and hard at the Greymander.  From what he understood, powerful magic like what he could use from the sword was incredibly rare now.  What if he wished for the plagues to be gone?  That would work, right?  Perhaps it was Tfop or perhaps it was growing wisdom that came from age, but he decided against it.  For years, it would weigh on him.

In 814, a guest came calling.  It was night time, an odd hour to visit unannounced.  Claude was nonetheless unworried.  The last thief to dare something like this ended in a dragon's claw being flown to an uncharted island.  Opening the door gave Claude a start and he immediately knew who stood before him.  Bow, kneel, salute; Claude ended up doing all at once and finally gave up as his wife bid the stranger come in and sit.  The parlor was beautifully crafted, as were the chairs they sat in and the rug the children laid on to hear the stranger's story.  After two hours of entertainment, everyone but the stranger and Claude were asleep, snoring where they had settled two hours before.

"The world needs you one more time." the figure, who was in truth no stranger to Claude. "We have been called upon time and again through the centuries to champion a hopeless cause, and Habololy is looking to us once again.  If we do not succeed, tyranny may rule for centuries.  Others will do there part to shield you as you go.  The other Claudes will provide a distraction, since others cannot tell you and them apart through magic.  Once done, head to Amansky and to the Academy of Song.  You will need to find others to help you in this quest, but fear not, I will guide you to them."  The rest of the night was pleasant, and Claude did not tire.  When the sun rose, he began to prepare.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 25, 2021, 02:39:59 PM

That’s my favorite so far.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 25, 2021, 02:57:13 PM

Was sorta hoping we'd all play a unclaude..

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 25, 2021, 03:06:49 PM

Claude part 2

Several things needed to be done before leaving.  First, Claude called upon Orico'irlym.  The great bronze dragon met him on the rocks out to sea as was typical.  Claude told him the story and what he had to do and asked him a favor.  "This one sounds, well, overwhelming.  I'm not so sure we will win this one, and after all, I am getting a bit old to do this stuff.  Would you.."  Rico jumped in an without hesitation agreed to go with Claude.  The dragon buzzed around and gathered his armor and weapon.  Finally, when he came back, Claude who had been catching fish and eating nuts, chimed in, "I was only going to ask you to watch my family, but if you really want to go, I guess?"  Rico paused and agreed to watch over Claude's family and the town.  But he would not let Claude go alone.  "When you reach Amansky, I will make sure you are joined by an ally."  Claude thanked Rico and said goodbye, hopefully not for the last time.

Back in town, Claude gathered the unclaudes.  "Its time for you each to live you own life.  I have a mission and you aren't coming.  Follow my example, the teachings of our Lord, and you will do well."  One by one, they thanked him.  Over the years, even if Claude had not realized, they all had come to know that they owed him their lives.  Claude wished them well and said goodbye, hopefully not for the last time.

At home, Claude spent a week with his family.  His wife knew soon that something was going to happen.  Claude's face had a serious look it rarely had and he was more focuses that usual.  They fished, they cooked, the brewed.  They played games and he told all of his favorite stories one more time.  "And then, I wished the ship was right side up, and poof, there it was..."  This kids laughed as they did every time.  When the week was up, Claude gathered almost all of his things.  In a sealed chest, he left the Greymander and a note for Claude IV.  "Not any dragons where I'm going." he thought.  Early in the morning, having said good night to the children and put them to bed the night before, he kissed his wife and told her he loved her, hopefully not for the last time.

Walking into Port Talp, he went to the shop of his friend Agniclair.  It was open when Claude arrived and he told the gnome what he was going to do.  "Take what you need, whatever it is."  The two spent hours gathering supplies.  They talked all manner of alchemical nonsense.  They laughed and when they had gathered everything they could think of, Clause wished his friend good luck and left the shop, hopefully not for the last time.

Claude wandered the street of Port Talp for several hours, thinking and readying himself.  He ate at his favorite tavern and listened to his favorite minstrel.  He walked out to the docks where he had seen the letter posted for the Vigilant Seas all those years ago.  Before leaving the city, he looked back and knew, it would probably be for the last time.

Crafter 1 / Cleric 3  / Alchemist 10 / Ranger 2 / Dragonslayer 5

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 25, 2021, 03:23:38 PM

That took a depressing turn.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 25, 2021, 03:51:12 PM

Reikbar 1st Sledgehammer (Zunder, various)

Few knew as much time at war as Reik as soon as Iott's reign began.  The best traveled of the royal family, he had more experience in the world than any other member.  From day one, Nomagrok was a target.  Iott aligned with the Dwarven Kingdom and the assaults did not relent.  Reik and his brethren knew little peace.  There was never a massive battle nor huge casualties at any one time.  But the constant terroristic threats and incursions drove the Sledgehammers deeper into the cities and caves.  They were cut off from trade, isolated, angry.  Reik's ire grew, his helplessness profound.

When Gneon came knocking, it was Reik that was assigned to speak to him.  Despite the pain it would cause, Reik agreed with the plan.  Nomagrok would attack in all the expected places.  Making it seem as if the kingdom had finally had enough and was willing to start an all out war in order to break the national siege.  Reik knew who would lead the attacks.  Graid 6th Sledgehammer, high cleric of Alarault, Render of Magic; who had lost an eye and survived two assassination attempts was chomping at the bit to attack.  Several epic failures had finally quieted him, but the siege continued to provide new faithful and recruits.  Now, they would lead the charge on the day.

Reik himself would be part of the group breaking the stones.  The plan was a glorious success, despite the heavy losses Nomagrok sustained.  After that day, Reik campaigned around the world.  Now was the time to attack.  Break Iott before they adjusted.  Nomagrok had taken the first hit, now the rest of the world needed to step to the fore and take the first to the tyrants.  Only the orcs stood tall and marched to war.  Turned diplomat, Reik traveled and rallied support.  He was the target of several attacks, but turned them away.  No wizard seemed willing to engage him in anything but a passing attempt.

Even after the orcs failure, Reik continued.  Gneon met with him and they prepared another, larger invasion of Iott.  Nomagrok wanted to help, but their war with the dwarven kingdom kept them in check.  It seemed as if the gathering revolution was on its way to winning, when the dark day arrived.  Kallark transcended to the planes.  Iott's power restored.  Reik was devastated, he he continued.  As a speaker and diplomat, he went around the world, meeting with all who would speak with him.  Icefia, Gnarland, and Pacyr.  He was respected and continually targeted.  When they were not able to kill him, Iott let it be known that those speaking to him would be targeted.  This was more effective.

He was joined on the travels by Owrken 8th Sledgehammer, a cleric of Alarault.  This charismatic dwarf brought the quasi deity's magic hating faith to much of the world that had never heard of it.  When the plagues came, his task became harder.  Fewer people were willing to talk to strangers or foreigners.  For Reik, who refused magic, this made the prospect doubly tough. 

By 812, when Reik returned to Nomagrok after a decade away, all seemed lost.  Iott's quick ascension to power before the Day of Magic was Broken gave way to a slow more deadly climb to power.  He sadly reported to the king that the only solution was to hunker down and wait it out.  The faithful of Alarault was furious and declared they would pick up the mantle of resistance to the magic tyrants.  Reik prince of the dwarves, stone breaker, was now a bystander in a cave.

Two years later, a commotion was the first interesting thing Reik had heard in a long time.  "I'm really not a threat to any of you, I mean unless you have dra..err...wyrm blood.  Or possibly if you're a slaver or a pirate, and maybe, no definitely if you are a plague."  Reik walked into the great hall and saw a vaguely familiar foolishly dressed human.

"Prince, can you tell them to unhand me?  I'm here to talk to you about a mission."  Something hopeful and dreadful stirred in Reik's belly.

Monk 5 / Warrior of Stone 10 / Devotee 8

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 25, 2021, 04:01:35 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 25, 2021, 03:23:38 PM

That took a depressing turn.

(https://media2.giphy.com/media/3o6MbkpmtIFm4oOlOw/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 25, 2021, 04:07:31 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 25, 2021, 04:01:35 PM

(https://media2.giphy.com/media/3o6MbkpmtIFm4oOlOw/giphy.gif)

I laughed so much Mrs. Asinjin came to see what was wrong.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 26, 2021, 11:09:06 AM

Montaron Mountainmagic (Terrorshard, Port Springs)

When he returned from he other planar adventure with the wizards, Montaron found a world that was marvelous.  Back in the dwarven kingdom, magic have proven its high position in the world and allies with Iott, they had made the world a better place.  Organized with great magic, rules and order had been established.  Those that opposed it; from Borkondof to the Shellshe to the evil forces of western Icefia to Nomagrok to Hertoplowis, were in check and weakening.  The Grean Republic was an ally, as were the nation of the Destroytian Peninsula and Yellowia.  Before the Day of Broken Magic, things were moving in the right direction.

Montaron learned of all this just after he had failed to prevent it from starting to unravel.  No one was exactly sure what the stones being broken would mean in the long term, but it couldn't be good.  An expert in arcane studies, Montaron took only a little time to see family and friends before beginning to study.  The best way forward, to maintain the rule of magic, was to understand this new reality faster and better than their enemies.  For years, he spent time in both the temples of Smofarf and the towers of Iott.  He was a leading researcher in how divine magic might help to bridge the gap left by the destruction of the stones.  The solution came to him and his collogues thankfully before the collapse of the structures Iott and the dwarven kingdom and built.  A cult deity of magic allied with them, channeling power from the planes.  Kallark's hierarchy was called in to discuss the plan with the leaders of Iott and the kingdom.  The plan was agreed upon, Kallark transcended to the planes.

The situation was so dire, Montaron and others looked passed the dangers of the plan.  That it worked and the balance was soon restored was evidence enough that it was the right path.  After that, Montaron went on to be the Master of Healing Magics for all the Arcane Alliance.  There were none other in his class, a cleric of Smofarf Master Healer.  He trained casters and was highly lauded by all.  He was not the target of the rebels, as he was a healer and considered protected.

When the plagues came, Montaron's notoriety became even greater.  Lyla herself spoke and dined with him.  The high cleric of Smofarf and the king of the dwarves hosted him.  He was even allowed to meet with the high cleric of Quan Yin to discuss healing the sick, a rare time he traveled outside of Iott or the mountains.  He never saw any of his old friends, or traveled to Port Springs, or saw any of the people that had gone to the strange world with him.  But he was saving the world.  He could see those that were healed because of his research, witness the spells that were able to be cast because of his research.

Late in 813, as winter set in around the world, he was enjoying a keg in the mountains.  All seemed well.  It had taken more than a decade, but the Alliance was nearing the point it had been on the tragic day.  Thinking of it always gave Montaron a guilty feeling, he could have stopped it, he could have done more.  Something caught his eye down a hallway.  A feather?  He gave it chase, as fast as any dwarf gives chase.  Down several halls and turns he went.  He feared nothing in the mountain.  Finally, he turned a corner to see familiar face, although dressed very differently.  "Daane!  By Smofarf its been a long time!" He hugged his old friend.

The moment was brief.  "They will be here shortly, I have to get out quickly."  Montaron looked puzzled, but quickly surmised, "You not on our side, are you you foolish dwarf.  Long shots were more your style."  Montaron chuckled.  "Hey, that is true...but no, I don't have time.  Get your self out of here and see the world.  Go to some places you haven't been to and see what's happening.  Half of the world is fabulous, some of it is okay, but the rest is suffering and getting worse and if this doesn't end soon..." he paused.  "Gotta go, please, as a favor, take a trip."  Daane tipped his head and dashed off.

Montaron didn't mention the meeting to anyone.  When the new year arrived, he did as his old friend asked and without telling anyone went to Port Springs, to Palumbton, to Northut, to the Clandom, to Port Phiam.  He reached out to Pacyr, to Solaris, to those he had gone to the other planet with even though they weren't available.  What he found was nothing he wanted to see.  It was as Daane has said.  His research told him more, that Kallark's existence in the plane's would eventually change the deity.

Returning to the mountains, Montaron was despondent.  Again, he had failed when it seemed most important.  He went to the basics and traveled to the poorest areas of the kingdom, healing.  Every time he would go out, he would be brought back by the powers that be.  On his fourth trip to the valleys, he heard voices coming and he again expected to be dragged back to research.

"Ack, darned fool of a cleric, you can't bring me here!  If they realize who I am, we're in for it!"

"Quiet down then.  I'm the human, I'm the one that's going to be seen."

"But you made yourself look like a dwarf."

"Oh yeah, well we're fine then."

And then the two dwarves were next to him.  Montaron knew immediately the sight of the prince of Nomagrok and readied for a fight.

"Oh no, we're not here for that.  We're here to talk about a mission and you can help..."

Cleric 13 / Master Healer 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 26, 2021, 11:29:04 AM

Another good one, though I expected him to be on Team T’Chau.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 26, 2021, 11:40:52 AM

Quote from: whitesword on January 26, 2021, 11:29:04 AM

Another good one, though I expected him to be on Team T’Chau.

Team T'chau, what's that....

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 26, 2021, 03:03:49 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 26, 2021, 11:40:52 AM

Team T'chau, what's that....

My money is on he's one of the - Shino Yattsuno Tsu

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 27, 2021, 12:51:32 AM

Keldan Windblade (Windblade, various)

After helping to defeat the coup in Baenrl, Keldan and his companion called Alberssi traveled to the Great Forest and finally back to the Rosetree Forest.  For a short time, Keldan returned to his life as a Roseguard and Bladesinger.  He kept in contact with the sons of Ennaenya who had helped guide him to Baenrl.  Alberssi would also contact him on occasion with talk of adventure.

Word came in 793 of a visit to the Court of the Rose by Lyle and Iott.  Keldan was invited in an official capacity.  What he heard shocked and appalled him.  The kingdom agreed to support Iott's reign, given some conditions.  Keldan only barely held his tongue.  Perhaps the sons words were more true than he had thought.  Perhaps the king was not deserving of the crown.  For another three years, Keldan simmered but did little.  There was little to do.  His orders were not to get involved and Iott's agents seemed unstoppable.  The brothers spoke out, but did little, knowing nothing could be done while Iott backed the king.

After the battle in the circle, on the Day Magic was Broken, Keldan had enough.    It was now time to throw off Iott's reign and stand up against them.  The king disagreed.  Patience, research, and a treaty that was not void because of the actions in the circle.  Keldan was disgusted.  Cowards, betrayal, this was not the oath he had taken.  The kingdom was more than this, the king should have higher values.  He was disciplined for speaking out of turn.

For the next five years, he stayed a Roseguard.  As Gneon's rebels grew in number and began to win victories, Keldan watched and practiced.  He relied on his elven longevity to carry him through.  The time would come.  The brothers were not able to talk to him as often, Alberssi came around little.  It was not a pleasant time.  But hope began to rise up in him.  Soon Iott would fall and the king would be free of the treaty.

In 801, his hopes were dashed.  Kallark transcended, Iott reasserted itself.  But then, he found a way to make things right.  The Suian was being held in Iott.  Keldan easily found an invitation.  If he could win, the credibility, the fame, it would give him a voice with which he could persuade the kingdom and some of the world.  He practiced and prayed.  The field was smaller than typical.  He dominated three matches, then three more.  Matches seven and eight were a challenge and he conceded one round in avoid great injury.  In his ten match, he faced Warlord Akrak.  The beast was impressive, but Keldan won the first round.  In the second, the gnoll timed Keldan's charge and broke his arm with a swing even though Keldan blocked it.  Fighting left handed, he held his defense, but knew he would be defeated and conceded.  The third round went by luck to Akrak.  A slip by Keldan gave Akrak and opening, and he did not fail to knock out the elf.

With his back against the wall, Keldan defeated Merkad Firepeak of Icefia.  The dwarf was tough and a veteran, but Keldan was simply more skilled.  His sword work impeccable and his movement unmatched, he danced around the dwarf for minutes picking his shots and eventually winning the match in two straight rounds.  Now it was round twelve, with fewer than ten combatants left, and he drew the lone remaining female, Sha'ar, the Red Guard.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 27, 2021, 11:45:19 AM

Keldan part 2

The match was highly anticipated.  Keldan was seen as one of Iott's favorites remaining, as the Rosetree Kingdom was seen as mostly allied with Iott.  Sha'ar was not viewed favorably by the hosts.  Layraedia was distant and difficult to control, despite the assurances from Amatom that the nation would not be a threat.  Icefia was a constant thorn.  She represented both places.

Lyla attended the match, as she occasionally did.  The first duel was a game of cat and mouse.  Sha'ar and Keldan dancing about looking for an opportunity.  Sha'ar's reach was astounding and Keldan's defense near unbroachable.  Testing each other at every turn, not wanting to play their full hand yet, they pricked and prodded.  When it seemed as if there would finally be a call from the judge for action, Keldan sprang forward.  His strike was true, but Sha'ar's counter was more effective, knocking him to the ground.  He stood deftly, but he was now in the defensive.  With Keldan on the attack and Sha'ar on defense, the fight was a standstill; the reverse benefitted Sha'ar more than Keldan and after a minute he concedes rather than take a serious blow.

The home crowd grew anxious.  The second duel was not attended by Lyla.  Keldan wasted not time.  Going into his most expert routine, his display was a thing of beauty unmatched in the Suian.  Sha'ar could do little but stare in amazement as her best defenses were compromised.  In less than a minute, she was beaten.  The crowd roared, at a level that was only possible with magical enhancement.

Duel three was attended again by Lyla, and every notable dignitary.  Sha'ar, realizing there was no normal counter to that display, and expecting Keldan to employ the routine again, summoned her inner strength.  The meditation was difficult, and exhausting herself with the preparation would leave her vulnerable in the next round, but it was worth the chance.  A bye was always possible next round with some luck.  Keldan went into the routine again, knowing it was his best chance.  The crowd was silent as his display of skill was mesmerizing.  He was surprised as the Red Guard held her ground.  Shocked when his attacks failed to slow her.  Deflated when his routine ended and Sha'ar stood tall in front of him.  Knowing it was over, he nonetheless carried on with the duel, hoping that a lucky shot or a slip might carry him to victory.  Thankful, the honorable Sha'ar did not want to kill Keldan.  He would not yield at any point as this was the end of his Suian journey.  Sha'ar seemed to sense this, and opted to break his sword in two instead of his body.  The cheers were muted, probably by magic.

Keldan remained and watched the Suian with only mild interest.  When he returned home, he drifted around the kingdom.  Iott would not fade soon and the kingdom would not take up arms against it.  The brothers left the stage for a while, fearing the resurging Iott would come for them.  The next year Sutyr betrayed the Counsil.  When even that did not spark the king to action, Keldan had enough.  Seeking out Alberssi, he sought a way to join the opposition.  Alberssi gave he a direction that made Keldan smile.  Despite resigning and leaving the kingdom, Keldan felt good where he was going.  Three weeks later, he knocked on a door and a smiling dwarf answered.  "Its been too long master bladesinger, welcome, come in, have a drink and let us plan our first move."  The Silversword and the Bladesinger were about to make some noise.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 27, 2021, 12:22:39 PM

Keldan part 3

Daane and Keldan, along with a variety of other adventuring types that joined them, were the most significant independent group trying to stop Iott and the Arcane Alliance.  For more than a decade they planned, plotted, intervened, and meddled.  While those with no or little access to magic fared poorly, and those that relied mostly on magic were crippled, the Company of the Silverblade walked the path in between.  They were not hobbled by being part of a large nation that had rules and the worries of citizens, yet they had the connections to get help when needed so they were not totally alone.

In Port Talp, in Palumbton, in Yellowia, in Icefia, the in Great Forest; wherever they went, they found safe haven for a short time.  The two never recruited others for a long period of time, wanting to travel fast and light and not wanting to endanger other too much.  In the Great Forest, they traveled with Liam Oakenry.  On the sea, they sailed with captain Irredescent Angel.  They hid for a time in the Frozensky forest with Hipolet.  In Magenthia, they sought refuge with Raygen.  In Lynkeed, they hid under the protection of the shadow.  In Port Talp, they stayed with Claude.

Every year, they had a mission.  A town in the Great Forest was the target of Iottian settlers.  A Yellowian lord refused to yield.  Grean refugees needed an escape from the Republic.   A dwarven town wanted to secede from the kingdom.  Protesters in the Destroytian Republic were being mistreated.  The Gremlin jungles were home to Iottian experiments.  In the plague years, things changed.  Iott was not the greatest enemy, but the vile forces looking to take advantage of the diseases.  It was during those year that they encountered their greatest non-Iottian foe, the Cancer Mage Goeller.  Having determined a way to use the diseases to power his powerful spells, he travelled the world claiming treasure and slaves.  They chased him for years, never defeating him.  He vanished from the stage when the plagues were under control.

The next four years became more challenging for the Company of the Silverblades.  Iott had more power and there were fewer places to hide.  The noose tightened around the two and some of their old allies were gone when they went to see them.  The Shino Yattsuno Tsu was on their trail.  813 was harrowing and a constant race to stay ahead of their pursuers.  More than one time, they thought this would be the last stand.

Camped out in the northern Great Forest, being fed by allies at the Fellos Estate, they heard noises approaching.  Off that Iottians wouldn't be more careful, but they may not be rightfully confident.  Daane and Keldan had traded away many of their best items to survive this long, they were tired and worn out.  Drawing their blades, they stood back to back.  Feathered hat on, Daane called out, "Come now, ye fiends of Iott, ten of ye'll fall by our blades before ye have us!  Long live the Company of the Silverblades!"  Keldan began to hum a battle hymn and they waiting for a glorious end.

"I am certainly no fiend, but Smofarf's ars-kisser here could be called that."  Through the trees walked an eager dwarf, a dour dwarf, and a familiar human with a dumb look on his face.  "Hello Daane, we need your help...."

Fighter 8 / Bard 2 / Wizard 2 / Lalakansakalpa 10 / High Master 4

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 27, 2021, 12:52:45 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 27, 2021, 12:22:39 PM

Through the trees walked an eager dwarf, a dour dwarf, and a familiar human with a dumb look on his face. "

Reik is offended you called Montoron Dour..

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 27, 2021, 05:44:08 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 27, 2021, 12:52:45 PM

Reik is offended you called Montoron Dour..

In my mind, you were the eager one.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 05:57:09 PM

Fighter 8 / Bard 2 / Wizard 2 / Lalakansakalpa 10 / High Master 4


Keldan is a baaaad man (elf).

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on January 27, 2021, 06:16:46 PM

What is the high master class? I don't know that one.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 27, 2021, 06:53:04 PM

Quote from: Windblade on January 27, 2021, 06:16:46 PM

What is the high master class? I don't know that one.

Habololy epic prestige class for a weapon expert.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:12:44 PM

Ari (part 3)

After Ari’s return, he and his fellow Knights spent months searching for sign of the assassins without success.  In 800, Arion asked Ari to do him a service.  While Arion was still living in secret, Sir Bartholomew and Asic told Arion that he was to marry Samantha Goldenseas, the princess of the Kingdom of the South.  Clearly, Arion did not go along with that plan.  Samantha lost both of her parents in the Wyvern Crusade and Arion felt pity for her and shame that he had abandoned her.  By 799, she was not only the wealthiest woman in the Kingdom but perhaps the most beautiful.  Her long-time bodyguard, Darva, had reached retirement age and Arion appointed her deputy minister of security of the Kingdom.  All the lesser kings and queens were in danger, and as Samantha had no family and no heir, she was considered the most at risk.  Garret Culdown, the famous cleric who had converted from Han-Sui to Stasis, and was an apprentice of Nisoru Metakae, had been protecting her, but he too was growing older.  Ari arrived in Cape Tolya in mid fall and took up residence in the palace.

On the Day of Darkness, the assassins struck.  Ari was aware of them as soon as they entered the palace, far later than his senses should have revealed them.  They walked out of the shadows and reached Ari, Culdown and the guards within moments.  At first Ari though they were Adaptors, for his blades had little effect.  But where the Adaptors mimicked emotion, and were not fearless, these things did not react to wound or spell.  All of the guards were killed and only Ari and Culdown remained between the chamber where Uljorn protected Samantha.  As the last of the Empty Men advanced, Culdown stepped between it and Ari and laid his holy grasp upon it.  It a burst of darkness both the cleric and the assassin dissolved into smoke.  The following day Ari and Uljorn escorted Samantha to Castle Gemblade.

After Sutyr betrayed the Counsil in 802, Arion banned his cult and the church of Dresta from the Kingdom.  Ari and Nisoru, along with Lythia Greenheart, the feyalin of Arsur’anyodel, were appointed to lead the effort.  In 808, as the Knights and their allies began a major effort to root out the evil faiths in Cape Tolya.  During the battles Ari rescued many captives, including those that had been brought to Icefia as slaves from Kathow and the Islands.  Those that eventually returned to their homelands spread the stories of Icefian paladins of Horarian descent far and wide. 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:13:27 PM

Shaar (part 3)

After the massacre at Cyrus’ funeral, Shaar returned to Layraedia.  Deeply affected her inability to save more of the attendees, Shaar attempted to resign from her assignment.  Ambassador Mason declined her request and informed her that she had been selected by the high cleric of Han-Sui of Layraedia as his champion in the Suian.  In fact, multiple clerics had attempted to name Shaar as their champion but the high cleric asserted his primacy. 

(Suian deailed elsewhere)

Shaar returned to Icefia in 803 to find the nation fighting on multiple fronts.  With her government’s permission she was assigned to assist Ari and the Knights in the battle against Sutyr, but with instructions to avoid actions against the Church of Dresta, as she was still a member of the Counsil.  The fight against Sutyr would span the continent and slowed only at the height of the plague years.   Throughout these years, many young guards and warriors of Layraedia made the dangerous journey to Icefia to learn from Shaar and fight beside her.  Some of these warriors would go on to great fame on their own in years to come; most notably Anaru Kai, who would become Ari’s greatest squire and Ragni U’larim, an apprentice of Shaar’s who would become a great weapon master in her own right.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:14:38 PM

Kerkly (part 3)

With Kallark transferring his power to Archeron, and Sutyr returning to his realm in Baator, the Guardians feared an alliance between them.  The Guardians obviously had no allies in the lower planes, and the few goodly powers of Mechanus were aloof and disinterested.  However, Arcadia, the plane of Righteousness, was home to Clangeddin, the dwarven power of war, an ancient enemy of Sutyr.  Kerkly, already a legendary hero, was the ideal emissary to press Clangeddin’s servants to oppose Sutyr more actively in the outer planes and prevail upon Kallark (a fellow dwarf) to avoid entanglement with Sutyr.

Kerkly departed Habololy in 803 for a mission to Mount Clangeddin with a contingent of Guardians, including Acyll Edorem, Inari the Diamondsoul and Midan Granitebreaker, the Cerdival of the Council.  Convincing the Lord of Battle to go to war against giants was easy work, but diplomacy (even if it was really veiled threats) held little interest for him or his followers.  On top of that, the idea of an evil, dwarven, power of arcane magic, was almost laughable, and so it took considerable time (in the form of fighting and feasting) to prevail upon Clangeddin to intercede.  Kerkly and Acyll and a rotating group of Guardians spent the next five years battling Sutyr on the outer planes. When it became necessary, they also opposed efforts by Kallark’s faithful to make alliances with other powers.  Their efforts were largely successful, except on Mechanus, where the indifferent powers had no interest in alliances, but no objections to transactions with either the forces or good or evil.   
Thus Kallark, who had no lower planar servants, was able to retain the services of powerful agents to use against his enemies on Habololy.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:15:35 PM

Asinjin (part 3)

By 803, Iott was again asserting its power around the world and those that had participated in the breaking of the Stones had been declared enemies of the nation. In 804, with Asinjin, Parker, Russel and Luigi all in residence at the College, the leaders of Iott chose to take a chance to capture or kill as many of them as they could.  Knowing that the College was under Allanda’s protection, and that spellcasting on the grounds was restricted to those permitted by the Dean, Kallark’s disciples sent Inevitables in groups of four after each stone breaker and several other prominent members of the faculty. 

The battle, which lasted from dusk to dawn, became known as the Night of Broken Gears.  The battle with the Inevitables wrought terrible damage against the college. Among those killed were Dean Templeson and professors Caron and Mangan and the museum curator Saloren Olastral.  As a result of the attack the High King formally declared war against Iott and banned Kallark’s cult from the Kingdom.  Haskra, the Dean and High Cleric of Allanda’s nascent faith, offered to resign from both positions, but Allanda rejected his request.  The church did close its shrines and withdraw its clerics from Iott.

 The month after the attack it became known that Allanda would grant audiences to faculty on occasion in the Great Hall and the College was not troubled again.  Many of the faculty, and a few prominent students, took a more active role in the battle against Iott in the years following the attack.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:17:01 PM

Parker (part 3)

Following the Night of Broken Gears, Parker and Robyn, now the parents of 5 (Thera, twins Marina and Gwendolyn, and a second set of twins, Parker and Emelda) were tired of being afraid, and, leaving their children in the care of the College, began to challenge their pursuers.  In 805 they defeated Herron Cross and his cadre of bounty hunters.  In 808, in the wake of the Day of Dust, they risked a journey to the Plateau to learn what they could of the terrible weapon that had decimated the Protectorate and Fort Whiteknight.  While there, they were confronted by the mad Invevitable Inexorious VI.  Inevitables had been hunting the stone breakers since Kallark established his realm on Archeron, and their efforts to capture Parker and Russel had broken the minds of some of them, but this model was clearly after Robyn, not Parker.  Knowing that the Iottans would not be far behind Parker and Robyn again withdrew to the College.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:18:38 PM

Rubius (part 3)

In 808, as the conflict between Iott and the other nations was at its height, there was tension everywhere.  Neighbors in every community found reason to be suspicious of those with whom they had differences. It was most likely jealousy of the rapid success of Havenhollow that brought the first evangelists.  They came and preached against the cults.  The clerics of Stasis and Arsur’anyodel, in particular her young dwarven high cleric, countered them and made clear their vitriol was not welcome.  Still, they returned, sometimes bringing mobs of people looking for someone to blame for their misfortune.  Rubius spoke in favor of peace and cooperation, but his son had become a follower of Avoreen and those that demanded the expulsion of the cults called Rubius a collaborator and heretic.  Rubius began carrying his bow after these interlopers were expelled.  In Mefeeti 808, during the fall harvest festival, a band of riders entered the town at dusk.  At their head was Marthus Otias, the high inquisitor of Han-Sui.

 Otias was an implacable enemy of the cults; he had been twice expelled from Icefia for attacks on the cult of Hemator and had even taken a group of followers on a doomed expedition to invade the Guardian Vale.  As the townsfolk had done before when these situations arose, they retreated to their shrines.  As Rubius moved to confront Marthus, the fanatics blocked the entrances to the shrines of Celestia, Hemator, Stasis and Arsur’anyodel with magical walls.  While Rubius subdued Marthas, his followers unleashed a barrage of fire spells into the two cult shrines.  To their credit the town rallied to put out the fires but the damage was done.  Dozens were killed, nearly two hundred badly burned and a large swath of the town was damaged.  Rubius’ son survived but spent days in agony as the clerics exhausted their spells.

Marthus and his band were found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment in less than a week.  After the entreaties of the church of Han-Sui were denied, Marthus demanded trial by combat, for which there was no provision in Icefian law, and the High King granted his request.  It is not clear who he expected to face, perhaps a parent of one of the slain, but King Oliver stepped into the circle and swiftly dispatched him.  Not satisfied that the punishment was sufficient, or that it would deter similar attacks, the High King banned all inquisitors, regardless of their faith, from the Kingdom.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 27, 2021, 09:25:10 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:17:01 PM

Parker and Robyn, now the parents of 5 (Thera, twins Marina and Gwendolyn, and a second set of twins, Parker and Emelda)

Named after Mrs.Humperdink?  If I find out Parker had an affair with Emelda, we're going to have words...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 09:50:13 PM

Quote from: Malchia on January 27, 2021, 09:25:10 PM

Named after Mrs.Humperdink?  If I find out Parker had an affair with Emelda, we're going to have words...

Out of respect for your lovely wife (and good catch, thought you’d enjoy that)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 27, 2021, 10:12:48 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:18:38 PM

Rubius spoke in favor of peace and cooperation, but his son had become a follower of Avoreen and those that demanded the expulsion of the cults called Rubius a collaborator and heretic.

Not exactly the future I had in mind for Rubian, but interesting nonetheless.  I'm curious to see what becomes of Ruby.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 27, 2021, 11:03:55 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 09:50:13 PM

Out of respect for your lovely wife (and good catch, thought you’d enjoy that)

I’m sad there isn’t an Astrek Berko.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 11:06:07 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 27, 2021, 11:03:55 PM

I’m sad there isn’t an Astrek Berko.

They’re on Astrek the 3rd. Beautiful Icefian Malamute.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 27, 2021, 11:09:47 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:17:01 PM

Following the Night of Broken Gears,

I’m calling dibs now on Knight of Broken Gears

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 27, 2021, 11:20:24 PM

A round of applause for Whitesword for his writings.  Writing is fun, but it takes time.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 12:34:17 AM

Grant Helodan (Valdis, Tyrogatore)

Before participating in the Day of Broken Magic, Grant was already well known through the Great Forest.  He had become respected by both sides seeking to control the forest, even though he fought for the southern coalition.  He was known to be the greatest Emenotan in the forest, even if it was not true.  As Haas and Valizar moved to other tasks as the war slowed after the treaty, Grant remained.  Viewed as a judge and moderator, he could move anywhere in the forest without issue, would be granted an audience with anyone he deemed necessary.

He spent much of the five years between the treaty and the Day of Broken Magic adjudicating disputes and looking out for the influence of Iott.  The Great Forest did not appear high on their list of targets, but they nonetheless reached out and inquired and slowly made discreet alliances.  Not with all of Scalehome or the Southern Coalition, but a town here, a village there.  Using the tension as a tool, they convinced scattered pockets to back their control.  It was infuriating, as they never presented themselves as a target, so Grant was left to convince rather than combat.  In private, he would curse the wizards and pray for the day when he would be able to smash them.

He was thrilled with the outcome of the battle at the circle.  The less the arcane magic, the better.  Iott retreated from the forest and Grant brought the towns back into the fold.  During the next five years, he helped oversee peace in the forest.  Free of the threat of Iott, both sides came together and worked to build unity.  The orcs left for a crusade and Grant wanted to join them.  But he was now in his late 40s and even though in the shape of a man half his age, he was not a soldier.  He had not yet figured out the best uses for his spells in this new age of magic.  The wugs, without the orcish foil, were told to leave.  After several small battles, which Grant attended, they did leave.

Other problems arose, and Grant seemed to have fewer allies to lean on to solve them.  The gnolls were pressing to war.  They were going to be the second wave of the crusade, but after the failure of the first, they turned back.  The unseelie, who had feared the Iottians more than most, now crept out of their holes and began their pranks.  At least here, the Foot and the remaining heroes of the forest pulled their weight and helped.  Perhaps most concerning in this time was a wizard, unrelated to Iott, that began to weave a web of control.  Grant began to pull on the strings, enlisting sheriffs he knew to help.  Several times, he had almost found the lair of the wizard, only to be tricked.

Kallark transcending followed soon b Sutyr's betrayal soon flipped the forest on its head again.  Scalehome signed a treaty with Iott and the southern coalition did not last long after that.  Grant tried to rally them together, but he could not overcome their differences.  Akar had grown in power and declared he needed no one else.  Balinhost's leader refused to work with the Fire Giants after Sutyr's actions.  The Lizardfolk, having found a ruler, named their nation Valley Sar, a name which made Grant want to smash his face into a tree.  Grant's task became one that involved even more travel.  He would wear out endless sandels over the next five years and fight hundreds of times to convince others of Iott's intentions and the actions they should take.  Tyrogatore's faith did well.

The plagues came next and Grant fearlessly despite being in his mid to late fifties was a paragon of physical fitness and worked through them.  Conflict slowed as most realms of the forest were hesitant to interact.  Only the gnolls did not care, for they alone seemed immune to the effects.  To Grant's dismay, worst among them was Razk.  Having been trained in filth and by a gnoll known as the disease, the plagues offered him a cover he could have only dreamed.  Raiding, spreading fear, and acting every bit the outlaw.  Grant was forced to confront him.

He found Razk in his tent, enjoying his plunder, he called out to the gnoll...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 12:35:40 AM

Quote from: whitesword on January 27, 2021, 08:17:01 PM

Parker (part 3)

Following the Night of Broken Gears, Parker and Robyn, now the parents of 5 (Thera, twins Marina and Gwendolyn, and a second set of twins, Parker and Emelda)

Asinjin should definitely have been given consideration as a name.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 01:00:56 AM

Grant part 2

The small gnoll burst from his tent, "You don't own me, you don't control me, I owe you nothing!  Be gone before we make you gone....hehehehehe"  Razk cackled a call and Grant was soon surrounded by a dozen gnolls.  They could not hurt Grant, they were only there to distract.  Fifteen year before, Grant would have had a litany of spell active to help him, and he would not have been an old man.  This would have been easy.

He thought to move at Razk first, but he was not that fast anymore.  He set himself and let the horde come.  Gnolls moved around him.  They did not often attack, and when one did foolishly do so, it got smashed for its stupidity.  But they were not there to hurt Grant.  Razk was now among them, one of the twelve or one of twenty.  He was smaller, he was more agile.  Grant got slashed, the metal claws of Razk hitting and withdrawing into the crowd.  Grant could not follow nor react in time to catch his foe.

Forced to switch tactics, Grant adjusted his holy garments' magics.  In the old days, they all would have worked together.  He accepted the attacks from darts and rocks in order to hit the nearest gnoll with fiery fists, which exploded into the others nearby.  Several barrages of the thinned their ranks, but also caused more than a few wounds on him.  When the last gnoll other than Razk fled, Grant stood face to face with the laughing gnoll.

"Your tricks worked only to delay your defeat."  Grant, now bleeding, his legs cut in ways that slowed his movement, and low on useful blessings.  Prayed for healing and began to fend of countless attacks.  Razk moved in and out, attacking with claws and a bite in rapid endless barrages.  None of Grant's maneuvers worked on the quickly moving gnolls; the Steel Chop, the Chilling Stabs, the Lightning Drop, the Tree Break.  The first technique was the last to try.  As razk hopped back to disengage and attack again, Grant left with a flying kick.  Razk, surprised the old man could move like that took it on the chin.

Stunned and now concerned, Razk laughed and threw up his hands, "Good fight, you win, I'll stop...hehhehehe."

Grant was tired and very thankful.  He didn't know if he had another kick in him.  Standing tall and feigning strength, he said, "Good, and I will be merciful.  Tyrogatore judges that for your actions, you will replay him some day, at a time when Grant deems it fit to do so."  Razk shrugged, "Sure."

So Grant was able to return to his temple.  For the moment, he would rest.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 28, 2021, 08:16:31 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 12:35:40 AM

Asinjin should definitely have been given consideration as a name.

That is the name the children gave the permanent Unseen Servant...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 28, 2021, 08:50:43 AM

Quote from: Hero on January 15, 2021, 07:49:33 PM

Schurke/Esme would get my vote as the most creative character concept ever.

(https://ajournalofmusicalthings.com/wp-content/uploads/Aw-shucks.jpg)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 28, 2021, 09:07:48 AM

Not pressing, but curious when all characters will have their levels posted.  Not just mine, I'm referring to everyone's characters.  I find it interesting to see what classes everyone has played.  It's good research for future character ideas for the 4th era so as not to duplicate too many character concepts.   

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 28, 2021, 09:23:04 AM

Quote from: Malchia on January 28, 2021, 09:07:48 AM

Not pressing, but curious when all characters will have their levels posted.  Not just mine, I'm referring to everyone's characters.  I find it interesting to see what classes everyone has played.  It's good research for future character ideas for the 4th era so as not to duplicate too many character concepts.   

I added levels/classes to the spreadsheet where I'm tracking deaths'.. I was interested to see everyone's final form myself.  Might be a painful exercise as things are getting changed at times.

- winners for most powerful at the moment (not all posted )
  Cloud - level 26
  Keldan - level 26
  Luigi - 25
  Montaron - 23
  Reik 23

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 28, 2021, 09:26:06 AM

Quote from: Valdis on January 28, 2021, 08:16:31 AM

That is the name the children gave the permanent Unseen Servant...

This wins as best comment!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 09:39:14 AM

Quote from: Malchia on January 28, 2021, 09:07:48 AM

Not pressing, but curious when all characters will have their levels posted.  Not just mine, I'm referring to everyone's characters.  I find it interesting to see what classes everyone has played.  It's good research for future character ideas for the 4th era so as not to duplicate too many character concepts.   

I have only not posted levels if the story isn't over or if I didn't get to it yet.  I wasn't doing that from the beginning, so I have to go back and add.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 11:32:03 AM

Grant part 3

After the age of 60, Grant knew that we was a step slower but a bit wiser.  He hoped that his fight with Razk would be the last epic duel where his opponent wasn't a brother of the faith.  He wanted to train others and spread the faith more.  For forty years he had been a faithful servant of Tyrogatore and tender of the religion in the forest.  Such was the respect for him that he was allowed into Scalehome unwatched to judge certain trials.

This was the case in 812 when the voice of Scalehome called upon his services.  A renowned sheriff and investigator from Owt, Kyle Sharplefe had uncovered evidence of a decades old massacre of residents of the forest.  Terrible tales of being eaten alive by trolls.  Scalehome was implicated in the acts and wanted to make sure the trial was seen as fair, so they allowed Grant to adjudicate.  The trial took many months, with witnesses that were still alive coming forward.  Old wounds were opened and the anger spilled over in the court.  Grant kept control. 

Both sides completed their arguments.  During the trial, the fey barrister named Ikinit was constantly trying everyone's patience and using tricks and loopholes to sidetrack the case.  The efforts were either incompetent or there was some other force working to thwart them.  Grant suspected the latter, but whatever it was, it did not infringe on the case, only the fey's efforts to subvert it.  Grant's conclusion was that the fey had deceived Scalehome and operated a vile effort to strengthen their warriors by feeding them live prisoners.  Grant had long suspected this, as many others had, but now the evidence allowed for a conclusion.

The fey went wild.  Chaos ensued and they blamed Scalehome for the incident.  They did not recognize the ruling, they cried foul and in an effort to clear themselves blamed everyone and every thing: Tyrogatore and his clerics, Greenfellow and his nation, the Fey that sided against them, quasi deity influences, powerful wizards, halfling cooks, lower planar influence, and on and on.  Tens in not hundreds of thousand fey, many of which were born to Habololy over the past two decades and did not know the planes, went into hiding.  Grant was able to name only a few in his decision.  Chief among them were the Devourer and Skaeshin Déantóir Cogaidh, the master of war.  Dusk Trolls were ruled in violation of the right order of life and banished to the planes if found.

After the trial, Grant's fame and infamy grew.  Some thought he would challenge for the role of high cleric of Tyrogatore, but he did not.  The next year's were filled with slights and tricks played on him by the unseelie.  He left reprisals and the hunt for the fey to others.  He took residence at a shrine of Tyrogatore in Dukalia, near his birthplace.  Two years earlier, the duke had died and his son had taken over.  Grant liked the son far better and moving back was a sign of approval.  The shrine became known as Grant's Court.  The fighting arena next to it was bustling with activity.  All seemed well.

One day, he was enjoying the sun on his feet, watching from the second floor as acolytes practiced, calling out direction when needed.  A commotion stopped the action and Grant rocked forward to see.  Old age was terrible.

"It will be quite the battle!  Ten on one!  Are you all allowed to wager in this?" A foppish dwarf and two other walked into the arena and one of the other dwarves looked like a warrior of stone to Grant.  His acolytes would be tested today, good.  Footsteps behind him, old age again sneaking up on him.  Still quick enough, he spun around to face any threat.

"No need to worry," the human said with hand raised in peace.  "We don't want a fight, well at least yet."  Grant had some memory of the human and elf that stood before him.  "Maybe you remember, maybe not.  This is 'Keylin Windsword' and I'm 'Grey Claudemander the 2nd'" the human said while winking. We need you help with a mission."

The elf, shaking his head, said, "Its important, dangerous, and fitting for one of your stature.  Let us tell you what we can."

Having heard what they said, Grant knew he had little choice but to go with them.  Preparations needed to be made and he needed to let some know.  But first, he someone owed him and he would be dragging him along...

Cleric 7 / Emenotan 10 / Keeper of the Arts 7

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 28, 2021, 01:33:18 PM

This group is bad-ass.
 - 25 lvl monk/devotee
 - 23 lvl cleric
 - 26 lvl sword elf something or other
 - 24 lvl monk/cleric
 - whatever daane is
 - whatever claude is

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 02:27:36 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 28, 2021, 01:33:18 PM

This group is bad-ass.
 - 25 lvl monk/devotee
 - 23 lvl cleric
 - 26 lvl sword elf something or other
 - 24 lvl monk/cleric
 - whatever daane is
 - whatever claude is

Daane Bard 5 / Fighter 5 / Silversword 10 / Grandmaster 7

I added Claude's level to his story.

There is also another member of this group that you missed implicitly implied.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 28, 2021, 03:02:32 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 02:27:36 PM

There is also another member of this group that you missed implicitly implied.

Razk?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 05:29:33 PM

Only 8 haven't been started.  Getting closer.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 28, 2021, 05:53:56 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 28, 2021, 01:33:18 PM

This group is bad-ass.
 - 25 lvl monk/devotee
 - 23 lvl cleric
 - 26 lvl sword elf something or other
 - 24 lvl monk/cleric
 - whatever daane is
 - whatever claude is

That just means DM is setting us up for something big. Bets on number of characters that survive?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 28, 2021, 05:57:27 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 28, 2021, 05:53:56 PM

That just means DM is setting us up for something big. Bets on number of characters that survive?

You'll have to know how many are in the group before the over under is set, the group continues to grow, with more expected tonight.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on January 28, 2021, 06:48:13 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 27, 2021, 11:20:24 PM

A round of applause for Whitesword for his writings.  Writing is fun, but it takes time.

(https://media.giphy.com/media/NJZMSqRY3rG9i/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 28, 2021, 07:39:36 PM

Ari (Part 4)

In 809, Sutyr’s infernal servants succeeded in doing something long thought impossible: they reopened the gate to the Elemental Plane of Fire in the depths of Mount Oneash. The dwarves were driven out and many, including Thane Gramble, were slain. Arion ordered all of the troops in the eastern half of the Kingdom to go the aid of their dwarven countrymen.  For the next 18 months, the armies of Icefia and Gnarland fought against the servants of Sutyr and the denizens of the Plane of Fire.  Ari, with Astrek by his side, led the effort to reach the gate.  Many knights and other heroes perished, but in the heart of the Icefian winter of 811 the gate was closed once again. Among the fallen were Sir Bartholomew Grace, Merkad Firepeak, Sir Charles Castilian and Primius Coustine.

Following the siege, Firfin arrived in Icefia.  Now very old, and the most senior of the masters of all the knightly orders, Firfin informed Ari that he intended to retire, a feat few knights of the Banished Hero ever achieve, and that he would have already have retired but for two things: the various crises around the world and Ari’s reluctance to embrace his obvious station.  With Merid defeated, Firfin informed Ari that the leadership of the Order of the Banished Hero recognized Ari as Grand Master of the Order and would hear no argument.

Ari would spend most of the next three years travelling the world in service of the Order.  Everywhere he went his fame preceded him and the agents of evil fled at even rumor of his arrival. With the grateful assistance of the dwarves of Clan Firepeak and the Castlewright family, a new castle was built for the Order in northern Icefia and more were promised on the Main Continent; if Iott’s dominance ever ended.  Ari remained vigilant for any sign of Nilas’anor, while training a new generation of Knights.

During his travels across the Main Continent, Ari took time to visit Firfin, who had retired to Dukalia.  The place of his birth was now ruled by a young, goodly halfling and Firfin was a part time advisor.  Ari's visit was a happy occasion.  The two spent some time together and went to visit the new Outpost 9, under construction and going to be commanded by Liam Oakenry.  Ari had heard of the impetuous halfling, but never met him.
 
The outpost wasn't much of anything when the two arrived, but the foundations were a good start.  For several days, the three talked and made merry.  Life in the Great Forest seemed to be going well.  But the specter of Iott loomed and the gathering of three such as them would not go unnoticed.  Spies lurked and it wasn't long before Ari departed.
 
That he could sense the approach of the group was comforting, though he only heard them when they drew near.  "Yuz iz terrible.  We never make anywhere with you chatter and stompin."  Ari was not one for hiding in these moments, so he walked into the midst of the group.
 
"Bottles and crosses, wonderful to find you!" said the human that Ari knew.  The others were a collection to be sure, dwarves, a gnoll, and elf and a human.  No spring chickens among them.  One dwarf bowed in a flourish, hat off head low, "An honor and a privilege from one grandmaster to another."
 
The human stepped forward, making sure the dwarf did not take the lead.  "Ahem, we are in need of your assistance.  Tfop has directed me here, to find you and others.  The mission is, well, unlikely to succeed.  But we have hope and with you there will be.." he counted on his fingers "...well, soon more of us than I can count."
 
Nothing made Ari happier than a taking the fight directly to the enemy, and this plan was just that.
 
"One more thing, Tfop says you know someone who will bring our mission lots of luck..."

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 28, 2021, 07:52:31 PM

Quote from: Hero on January 28, 2021, 05:53:56 PM

That just means DM is setting us up for something big. Bets on number of characters that survive?

2.

 My money is on Haas and Parker

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 28, 2021, 08:51:02 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 28, 2021, 07:39:36 PM

Ari (Part 4)

"... But we have hope and with you there will be.." he counted on his fingers "...well, soon more of us than I can count."

This is all kinds of awesome. Well played.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 29, 2021, 11:01:17 AM

Quote from: Zunder on January 29, 2021, 10:50:23 AM

Like Pavlov.. is anyone else sad there wasn't a 1am update....

I am sad too, but the Baratheons challenged the Free Folk in a Game of Thrones.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 29, 2021, 12:47:16 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 29, 2021, 11:01:17 AM

I am sad too, but the Baratheons challenged the Free Folk in a Game of Thrones.

(https://media1.giphy.com/media/a4kUaskDOZ5iU/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 29, 2021, 12:53:40 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 29, 2021, 11:01:17 AM

I am sad too, but the Baratheons challenged the Free Folk in a Game of Thrones.

Who won?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 29, 2021, 01:01:45 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 29, 2021, 12:53:40 PM

Who won?

Clearly not us.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 29, 2021, 05:55:56 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 29, 2021, 12:53:40 PM

Who won?

The Free Folk won the mission, but a lot more of them died.  In fact, no Baratheon units were destroyed, only the mercenaries they brought with them.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 29, 2021, 07:47:12 PM

(Sha'ar art 4)

A few months before the Siege of Mount Oneash began, the Ambassador relocated from Fort Whiteknight to Messada. The embassy in the west became a consulate and Ambassador Mason had intended to appoint Sha’ar as Consul, but once the Siege began it was clear that she would not allow her followers to join the battle without her. As a diplomatic crisis was unlikely to arise with the fire giants, who had no nation, the Ambassador allowed Sha’ar to go, but with instructions that she remain with the headquarters for the sake of appearances.

 This came as a great relief to the Lord Protector, as Arion, crown prince Alcios, and prince Kanith, all joined the siege in its second month. Arion was by then a more experienced battlefield commander, having fought against barbarians and Chosen in the north, but was wise enough to leave the strategy to the generals. However, protected by Stasis’ dragon-forged armor and armed with his giant slaying hammer, Arion was nearly unstoppable in single combat. After a few engagements the giants only sent their allies against him.  The princes, seeking to emulate their father and legendary fore-bearers, would wade into battle and often find themselves overmatched.  Fortunately, Sha’ar was the greatest defensive warrior of the generation and the ideal bodyguard for them.

As the siege progressed the giants came to fear Sha’ar. Ignorant of her reputation from the Suian, the giants initially relished the idea of slaying an elven champion. This did not last long, as many giants and their servants fell to Sha’ar’s glaive. By the end of the siege none would willingly engage the headquarters, preferring to take their chances against a glowing, giant badger or a equally radiant, talkative griffon, (both accompanied by a Horarian sword master) than face certain death by glaive or hammer. In the last battle on the fields before the mountain, Sha’ar defeated Brukrel, the fire giant gensai, who had slain Sir Bartholomew weeks earlier. When the half-giant fell, the defenders sounded the retreat and withdrew into the mountain.

 After the siege Sha’ar was recalled to Olan to serve as second in command of the Red Guard. Iott seemed ascendant and likely to further expand their influence. Sha'ar was among many the leaders called home to prepare for war. Sha’ar made two attempts at the voyage but was turned back each time.  Arion offered to try and force the crossing with a reinforced battle group, but Admiral Mason, the commander of Layraedia’s navy, and Ambassador Mason’s father, declined.

 In recognition of Sha’ar and her countrymen’s contribution to the safety of the Kingdom, and Habololy, Arion bequeathed to the Republic, in perpetuity, the former estate of the Vai family, whose line had ended decades earlier.  The Layraedians established an academy for war orphans and a school for diplomats in the grounds and formally moved the embassy there in 814. Sha’ar remains in her position at the newly named Suffelist Keep, while serving as chief weapons instructor at the academy.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 29, 2021, 09:06:10 PM

Kerkly (Part 4)

Kerkly returned to lead the Guardians in their part in the Siege of Mount Oneash.  The servants of Sutyr called upon aid from denizens of the lower planes to fight alongside their elemental servants in nearly every battle. Among Sutyr’s servants who arrived from elsewhere, Kerkly’s name was greatly feared.  Many came to battle expecting to easily prevail against enemies with little recourse to the great powers of the upper planes, but instead found a legendary champion of one of those powers.  After the siege, his name was more famous among the people of Icefia and Gnarland than any other Guardian.

For the next two years the Guardians saw little action.  The servants of Nilas’anor were again cowed by the power of Iott.  Only Azelec the Souless, the Chosen of Frostine Doomknight, occasionally appeared to raid in the north.  Still, the Guardians sought them and looked for any sign of the Empty Men.  Weary from decades of battle, Kerkly settled into his role as Master Clerist and only left the Vale to visit Havenhollow or offer Ari his counsel.

In 813, as the conflict with Iott seemed to reach an apex, the assassination attempts resumed, and by the end of the year were occurring almost monthly.  At first there was confusion as to who was responsible, as sometimes the attackers were agents of Iott, but more often against leaders and their families, they were agents of the dark powers.  That spring, a council was held in Castle Gemblade.  All the lesser kings and queens and their heirs, along with the heads of the high noble houses, the leadership of goodly churches, the Guardians and the Knights were in attendance.  The great wizards of the nation were still unable to locate the assassins and a desperate plan was devised. It was resolved that until the assassins could be rooted out, or the threat of Iott was ended, the children of Icefia’s leaders would be moved either to Castle Gemblade, the Bardic College or the Guardian Vale.  By offering the assassins one chance to strike before their quarry reached a place of safety, it was hoped they could spur the assassins to strike.  While the assassins’ actions could not be predicted, Russel and Parker could keep watch on the potential victims. 

On the Day of Light, Kerkly and Escalon waited for the chronomancers’ sight.  Each group of travelers had powerful protectors but the leaders believed that the enemy would choose one group against which to strike a heavy blow.  As the group of high nobles and their families passed the walls of Messada, Russel sent Kerkly and Escalon to their aid.  As they arrived, they found the travelers beset by the Brethren and the Empty Men.  The Empty Men had no fear, but at Escalon and Kerkly’s approach they turned to flee.  As Escalon spoke a word of power, Kerkly saw them burst as if made of obsidian dust or metallic smoke.  A shadow was lifted from his memory and he perceived them for what they truly were: Wytchblades, the servants of Gyn’syrd, the god of murder, imprisoned centuries earlier by Nilas’anor.

After the attempt there was no further sign of the servants of Nilas’anor, though the leaders and heroes of the servants of good remain watchful for their return. Kerkly returned to the Guardian Vale, and has remained there since, guiding the sect’s clerics and paladins as they seek out the forces that threaten Habololy from the infernal planes.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 29, 2021, 09:16:02 PM

Rubius (Part 4)

For Havenhollow, the battles and assassinations did not go unnoticed.  The pogrom had the opposite of its intended effect on the good folk of the town.  Many volunteered as home-guards for other towns whose soldiers had gone to the siege.  Others joined one of the knightly orders, emulating Kerkly and Rubius’ efforts.  By 813 the town had become a destination for followers, especially non-humans, of the goodly cult powers. Russel established a small shrine to Jazirian, the mighty celestial power of community and wisdom, and on the Day of Light, Aezir appeared briefly to bless the structure.
Rubius became one of the most trusted members of King Oliver’s court and a leader among the mayors of all the Kingdom’s cities. By 814 Havenhollow was the fastest growing town in the Kingdom and, in a sign of Rubius’ boundless good fortune, a large deposit of precious stones was found nearby that brought even more prosperity.

Rubius was content with his family and position.  But for the ceaseless conflict with Iott, which clearly weighed heavily on his friends when he saw them, he was sure that the great nations of the world could work together to set aside their differences.  With King Oliver’s permission he wrote to the High King to propose an attempt to negotiate a peaceful resolution.  To his surprise he received a royal summons to Castle Gemblade. 

On his way he stopped in Colonye, and found a messenger waiting for him.  It was somewhat an odd thing for Ari to invite Rubius to a meal, but that was indeed was had happened.  Receiving a note to attend a simple dinner at a small seafood tavern wasn't too strange.  Ari did not usually go in for big events, certainly not ones he would plan.  And this tavern, Rubius had notes on most of them, other than having a very salty imported dwarven cod it was unremarkable.  Perhaps Rubius could chat with the chef.  A bit less salt, or perhaps using a milder Intorian variety, could go a long way.
 
The tavern was dark and small, but not dirty.  Might be the huge amount of salt kept mold and dampness at bay.  He walked down the stairs to the dining room.  Having made sure the note was real, and trusting his instincts if something was amiss, he opened the door to see a strange sight.  Packed into the room meant to hold only a few small tables was a motley group, led by Ari.
 
Rubius hugged his friend and began to speak when Ari shook his head, "He's the leader this time."  Looking over, Rubius received a wave from a hand missing several fingers, belonging to a goofy, smiling, tilted head.  "Its our lucky day, friend, as we have found you.  Pardon the venue, prying eyes don't look down here as they would elsewhere.  We were hoping you'd join us on a mission of long odds?" He smiled in a way you wouldn't want, or expect, someone who had just asked you to go on such a mission way would.
 
Looking around, Rubius too smiled.  Every great adventure story he had heard started in a tavern with a misfit group of adventuring types that didn't know each other well.  He was certain this was going to go just fine...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 29, 2021, 09:34:29 PM

Parker (Part 4)

Parker spent the years after he returned from the Plateau happily teaching and regaling admiring students with stories of his adventures.  His daughter Thera graduated in 812 and set out on her own adventures, giving Parker a taste of the worry he had inflicted on his own parents (who lived a happy life in retirement on the campus).  All of the children enrolled and pursued in their studies one of their parent's interests.  Parker did leave the campus to guide Ari and the Knights in the underground cities of Oneash, as he had visited them, and been politely asked to leave, many times in the past.

In 815, as the world rejoiced at Kallark’s destruction, Parker and his family felt confident they could return to Phiam.  Upon entering the mansion, they immediately realized they were trapped.  The Furious Guardian had been turned into a host for the soul of a slain Iottan archmage and Inexorious awaited them.  The golem pinned Parker down and a team of wizards began their ritual to permanently drain Parker of his spellcasting abilities..  The Inevitable sensing its mission was almost fulfilled held Emelda and Parker the Younger at sword-point and demanded that Robyn place herself in anti-magic shackles.  Knowing what the Iottans intended, and having been given a second life she never expected, Robyn unleashed a wave of pure white magical fire.  The wave of flame destroyed everything on the first floor of the house, including Inexorious, the wizards and the soulstone attached to the golem, but left Parker and the children unharmed.  Of Robyn nothing remained.  The following morning Mouser arrived and escorted the family to Castle Gemblade, where they could grieve without fear of the Empty Men.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 29, 2021, 09:38:58 PM

Asinjin (Part 4)

Though Asinjin appreciated the safety and resources (and prestige) that came with his deanship, the role did not come easily to him.  Only the most persistent students sought out his classes, which suited him, but many of his fellow scholars could not move past the loss of so many of their fellows, and spent more time researching ways to oppose Iott than on art or music.  But for the certainty that he and his family would have to spend their life in hiding if they departed, Asinjin surely would have resigned. Despite powerful magic, and the nature of the College grounds, Asinjin's health continued to deteriorate. During the plague years he was completely confined to the grounds and the memory of the vast open spaces of the desert pulled at him daily. 

In 811 an unexpected event convinced Asinjin to remain.  That fall Luigi resigned his position as Dean and moved to Amansky.  The College was devastated and Asinjin again considered if he would be better off on his own.  At the next faculty meeting Asinjin was stunned to see his old master Alrouk cheerfully enter the room and take the Dean of Magic’s chair at the table.  Looking decades younger than when Asinjin had last seen him, Alrouk quickly improved morale at the College, helped the faculty find their focus and served as the ideal go-between for Asinjin and his colleagues. Asinjin remained focused on his art, and took more pleasure in his position with Alrouk’s guidance.  He gave advice and guidance to those leading the Kingdom through the difficult years leading up to the end of Iott’s power.

After Kallark's defeat, there was a period of great celebration in Icefia.  Everywhere it seemed that a great burden had been lifted.  It was especially pronounced on the grounds of the College, which seemed to change overnight from a place besieged to a place of youthful wonder.  For Asinjin, once it became clear Iott’s dreams of domination were finished, the lure of his home, peace and solitude proved too strong.  He resigned his deanship and returned home with his wife and young son, while is daughter, Adijia, remained as a student. Despite his prickly persona, a parade of students and faculty sought him out to bid him farewell.  Alrouk promised to visit.  Upon reaching Intoria, he quickly settled into the life had long desired. He quickly settled into the life had long desired.  Early the following year, Adijia returned home with a surprise guest: Lira, the queen of Icefia and her son prince Evard, to announce their betrothal.  With a telltale sigh, which in truth masked his joy, Asinjin resigned himself to the occasional visit to Icefia. 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 29, 2021, 11:36:28 PM

Acyll Edorm Fult (Whitesword, various)

The days of Iott's reign were frustrating ones for Acyll.  A warrior of devastating power, he was ineffective against Iott's tactics.  The other work in Icefia during that time was that of undead hunter, which was an inefficient use of his talents.  His eagerness to get involved left him on the wrong side of the Guardians' mindset more times than he would have liked.  During this time, he leaned on his elven patience to get him through, training himself and others for the time when his skills would be most needed.  Leading by example with his focus and adherence to the plans even if he was not fond of them.

The Day of Broken Magic was welcome meaningful action for him, but the consequences and results did Acyll no favors.  His superiors were displeased with his decisions.  The next few years saw Acyll getting back into action, as Iott's power waned, threats arose and he was there to stand against them.  Often as a bodyguard or protector, he was an imposing figure and turned away of few attacks simply by being present.

After Kallark left for the planes, Acyll was again in limbo.  A return to Iottian dominance would again likely relegate him to lesser tasks.  But fate smiled and he was named as a competitor in the Suian.  Once the tournament began, Acyll fell into an odd category.  The Suian of 801 was very much a home town favorite event, with heavy cheers and boos depending on if the combatant was seen as an ally or enemy of Iott.  They did not know what to make of Acyll.  His affiliation, race, disposition, faith, and homeland were a mix of what one would consider allies and enemies of Iott.  The crowd ended up basing the treatment of him based on his opponent, which lead to sometimes heavy boos and sometimes loud cheers.

His power and skill nearly unmatched, he blew through match after match.  Concessions were not uncommon after they felt the weight of his sword in duel 1.  It was terrible luck that pitted him against Primius Coustine in a round when both desperately wanted to take on Warlord Akrak.  The match was fierce a swift ad they were two heavy hitters.  Acyll's speed proved to win the days as he got to the mark a second before Primius on each occasion.  His luck proved poor again when in the next round he drew Elline Windblade, who stood little chance against his great sword.

Still undefeated, he drew Martin Bradtree next.  Already a veteran of a Suian, the Fironi was considered one of the most seasoned combatants.  For the first time in several rounds, the cheers went against Acyll.  Martin was a genius with his blades.  Confounding the swings of the great sword and fighting tight Acyll as if the two were in a coffin, he had clearly battled such an opponent before.  Martin let the fight drag on and on, allowing hits to go unmade to ensure he kept as close to Acyll as possible.  He had prepared for this, fighting others that would have used this same approach, but the daggers his sparring partners used were not Martin's short sword and the different in length proved just enough to give the match to Martin.

Disappointed, but still alive, Acyll had reached the rarified air of the Suian.  Fewer than a dozen competitors remained.  Luck found him in the next round and he drew Akrak.  Again, he was cheered.  The gnoll Warlord had not yet lost, but it was the opponent for Acyll.  Slower than him, not as technical, larger, and prone to be angered; the match would play out just as Acyll envisioned and how the crowd hoped.  Baiting the gnoll in and the battering him with blows that would have killed lesser warriors before Akrak could get off an attack.  So furious was the gnoll for the embarrassment, and possibly knowing he would lose again in more horrific fashion.  Akrak caught Acyll by surprise in the second duel by doing something he could not have suspected; he bit and punched, clawed and tackled.  The gnoll was immediately disqualified from the match, but he laughed his way out of the arena.

Now Acyll had to combat another enemy in his next match.  Akrak's bite festered, the wrestling  had torn something in Acyll's arm.  Healers did what they were allowed, but the wounds left their mark.  On top of that, Acyll now had to face Listem Ramsith, champion of Iott.  An unknown in the world of great warriors until the Suian, he had received the host's nation's choice of entrant, which meant no cleric of Han~Sui had to choose him.  His duels so far had been one sided affairs where the crowd was so loud the combatants could not hear themselves think.  Listem was a showman, a human of perfect physique.  He chose to walk into the arena unarmored and take the type of buckle on his incredibly made armor, flag of Iott emblazoned on his chest.  By the time he was done, only his chin and light brown curled mustache were visible.

Using a thin bladed long sword and buckler with dagger in the other hand, Listem was unbeaten.  Matching Acyll's speed and strength, Listem was able to deflect the best of Acyll's strikes.  Knowing where Acyll was sore, he took advantage as one would expect from the master tactician he proved to be.  The duels were close, but they tilted towards Listem slowly on every pass until finally Acyll was beaten.

He remained to watch the final matches, but his mind was only half there.  He wondered where he would find fulfillment and the end to years of frustration.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 30, 2021, 12:38:00 AM

Acyll part 2

Returning to the Guardians, Acyll continued to have differences of opinion by somewhat reinvigorated by his performance, with new notoriety, he went back to work in Icefia before a mission he was really able to sink his sword into came along.  Joining Kerkly, he was sent to the planes to battle against the forces of evil.  Little could have suited him better and he was a devastating force.  As time on the planes moves differently, it was difficult to gauge how long he was gone other than to know how much time had passed on Habololy when he returned.

What he found upon his return was not what he would have hoped for or expected, the world descending in a plagues ridden few years.  Again, he sword would prove a less valuable tool.  It could not swing away disease or pestilence.  The battles he fought during the plagues years, with the occasional more satisfying mission against forces taking advantage of the situation, were ones of compassion and comfort.  Seemingly immune to the plagues for reasons he attributed to karma and luck, Acyll found some fulfillment helping the downtrodden.

His successes and heritage allowed him to head west and be a symbol to the scaled elves.  His time on the planes had made him so feared that the assassins of Iott did not approach him.  When the King Roflander called for help, Acyll lead a small contingent over the northern pole to the mountains and himself slew a dozen fiendish giants that had been rampaging through the mountains.  The path he took through the mountains to track and hunt down the half fiends became known as Acyll's Path.

Returning home, a mighty storm blew over the group.  The ice gnome scout who lead the party, Fernde Gneverlost, gathered the group together and safely sheltered almost all of them.  Somewhere in the storm, a call was heard.  The cook, Nealia, had somehow been separated from them.  Acyll went to retrieve her, but when he found her, he was stunned to see the storm part and a blue white winged fey standing over unconscious Nealia.

The next thing he knew, he was back in Icefia.  Fernde smiled as he opened his eyes.  "Quite the survivor you are.  Nealry a year out there and you don't look much the worse for wear."  Confused and feeling no different, Acyll let it be until they reached Degalas.  There he camped and recovered from the strange experience.

He thought he was better when a knock came and the guard's voice said, "Master Acyll, there is a group here to see you."  More voices were then heard...

"Acyll, I knew an Acyll many years ago, if I recall helped us deal with the Day Turned dark?  Right Daane?" asked a clearly dwarven voice.

"Surely so Monty, and from what I hear there is no better slayer of demons on this world, and no one with more planar experience.  Present company excluded of course."

"No need to appease my ego" replied another.

An disgruntled elven voice chimed in, "Must be the same one that did outlasted me in the Suian."

"Itz cold here", what was that? Acyll thought.

"Can we go in already, we look like idiots all crammed into this hall?" main continent accent, Acyll thought.

"Ack, an Acyll cut through a bunch of stinkin' dark giants more an a year back.  Hope that's the one."

The door began to open.

A chipper voice said, "I told you, moe meant north, and look where it brought us."

The first one into the room was none of the ones that had spoken, but rather an unimpressive jingling man with a receding hair line.  "Hello, I represent the Company of Long Odds, and we were wondering if you'd come with us."  There was a long pause as they all packed into Acyll's room and he said nothing.

Voice cracking, the human continued, "We hear you might like going to the planes...and killing some fiends?"  Acyll was about to answer, and the man stopped him, "um...Sorry, follow up, you don't happen to know anyone else that might like to go too?"


Psychic Warrior 7 / Ranger 8 / Bladelord 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 30, 2021, 08:43:17 AM

Quote from: whitesword on January 29, 2021, 09:34:29 PM

.  Of Robyn nothing remained.

Uh oh. Someone just poked a sleeping bear with a stick...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 30, 2021, 10:30:22 AM

Russell part 2

By the time Russell returned to life at the college, he found things different and, although he was in a better state than when he left, the situation continued to be challenging.   Asinjin had taken residence as a dean and the rivalry between the two (at least in Asinjin's mind) had not diminished.   Cloud was gone to no one knew where, or even if he was still alive.   Luigi was there, but was very busy.

With a new mindset, he renewed his focus, talking less of chronomancy, which he had come to realize was disturbing to people, and more of psionics, which for whatever reason was less unsettling.   The College was still a familiar place, and until The Night of Broken Gears, allowed him to put aside his concerns for a time.   The threat of Nilas’anor, seemed distant, and more mundane concerns rarely entered his mind.   It was a simple existence that took him back to the time before he became entangled in world altering events.   From time to time the Guardians would seek his aid, but Maglore in particular knew that Russel was struggling to find his way without his full power.

He soon also found travel outside of the College fraught with troubles.   People that should have remembered him didn't.   Others that should have had no reason to dislike him did. He was confident he himself was not infected or enchanted, but others seemed to be.   The more he tried to go into the world beyond the college walls, the more he noticed these effects.   Only at the College, and in the Guardian Vale, were there no signs.   Like time and time before, Russell had a puzzle before him he needed to solve. Forces seemed set on making sure he did not maintain the peace of mind he had found.

The Night of Broken Gears was a terrible reminder of the state of the world.   The Inevitables were not mindless, and did not engage in wanton destruction, but, true to their name, they let nothing stand in their way.   During the battle, as one of the constructs approached to capture him, Russell used a minor chronomancy spell, a time slip, to try to gain an advantage over it, and was surprised that when he reemerged, the machine had gone berserk. In the wake of the battle, Russel’s research would discover that while the Inevitables were immune to almost all magic, including chronomancy, they could not process when one of their objectives disappeared from the time stream.   Russel would share this with Parker, who would use it to keep his family safe for years to come.

The losses on the Night were crushing for Russel; in particular the death of professor Mangan, who had aided Russel in his journey into psionics.   Many of his fellow professors resolved to take the fight to Iott any way they could, but none of them were at the top of Iott’s most wanted list.   Possibly the smartest mortal in the world, trying to put the world back right, but denied access to the tools that would allow him to do so, Russel seethed in frustration.   Only conversations with Haskra and Maglore stopped him from attempting to repair the Chronomancy Stone.
 
On a trip to the market Russel was given a revelation.   A halfling walked out of a plague house, where the sick were quarantined.   He had an empty basket.   It was an odd sight, as few came out of the house.   He wore no symbols or insignia.   Russell worried that the foolish halfling might spread some plague and approached.   Taken a bit by surprise, but unconcerned, the halfling explained that he had been sick but had recovered without spells.   Some clerics believed that made him immune.   He wanted to help out and he remembered that when he was sick how much some food made him feel better, even though it couldn't cure him.   "I know I can't make them well, but maybe I can help them in some lesser way. Perhaps, if we all do what we can, things will get better." In that moment Russell remembered that his patron Jazirian, one of the mightiest powers of the multiverse, was not so powerful because he was the patron of psions, but because above all, he was the power of community and cooperation.   Russel journeyed to Havenhollow the next day, to visit Rubius and found a small shrine to Jazirian.   While there he saw no sign of the malaise he had encountered elsewhere.   After a few days spent is the cheerful company of the halflings, Russel returned to the College and dusted off his sword and staff.

Wizard 8 / Chronomancer 10 / Psion 5

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on January 30, 2021, 11:56:10 AM

Quote from: Valdis on January 30, 2021, 08:43:17 AM

Uh oh. Someone just poked a sleeping, gun toting, time traveling bear with a stick...

Fixed that for you.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 30, 2021, 11:58:09 AM

Quote from: Zunder on January 21, 2021, 09:08:20 PM

I tried to name all 22, only got to 12
Ajax is too old by the end.
Even money on the wizards, specifically Russel. 
Even money on Haas.
Even money on whomever is at " The Low Bar" and "The Red Sky" being the epic end.
But my money is on Claude and some ridiculous wish.

Two of these four could still happen.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 30, 2021, 03:33:17 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 30, 2021, 11:58:09 AM

Two of these four could still happen.

I've switch to Harrick..  for dramatic effect.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 30, 2021, 10:54:47 PM

Dovin Coril (Whitesword, various)

When Iott's reign began, Dovin's missions became less frequent.  Their vigilance over planar comings and goings meant that large dangers were answered by them and lower planar creatures that came to Habololy were defeated by the Iottians or prevented from arriving all together.  Additionally, the danger from Greysnows was diminished during this time again due to Iott's oversight.  It was a nervous at times, but relaxed at times feeling.  The years became easier with big Iott watching, but there was an unease to their continually growing power.  Dovin was not as disturbed as many of the guardians whose value of freedom was much higher than his.  Not to say he did not value it, only that he did not mind that a force was out there preventing the lower planes from reaching Habololy, even if it meant they were watching him too.

He focused in those year on other tasks, more mundane in nature but nonetheless meaningful.  Creatures of lesser note that had been allowed to lurk due to lack of resources were hunted down.  The cults of Vishtoo, Loomashyn and the other lower planar ones were dealt several meaningful blows by Dovin and the guardians.  The battle against the lower planes might never have been in such good shape as it was after five years of Iottian rule.

The Day the Magic Broke was a terrible event when looked through that lens.  The only silver lining was that spellcasters could no longer easily travel to or summon things from the lower planes.  But those that had been in hiding or biding their them started to creep out of the shadows.  Their hesitation bought Dovin and the guardians time, as they did not understand as well as the guardians what the state of magic was. Dovin was assigned a leadership role and he and his team's task: find any new loth that made its way to Habololy and destroy it before it could make plans.  Dovin thought they must be joking, or perhaps they meant any loth that came to Icefia, or some area.  But the guardians were not joking.

Iott knew sooner than any other mortal organization what the breaking of the stones meant.  They reached out within a month to the guardians and came to an agreement on what to do to prevent planar incursions.  Knowing Habololy would be at greater risk due to the lack of magic available to many, they sought the guardians and made Kay Allansa, the headmaster of Planar magic available to them.  She became Dovin's official contact with Iott and the two worked together on a plan.  Dovin had not often met as impressive a woman as Kay.  As well studied as possible, dedicated to understanding of the planes without being consumed by any of them, she had a mental discipline that matched Dovin's physical one.  The two became fast friends.

The next four years were hectic for Dovin, yet rewarding.  Kay directed and led lead.  In nearly every nation on every continent, she had the ability to detect loths and send the assault team Dovin lead.  As the years progressed, the loths sensed the vulnerability and more attempts to reach Habololy were made.  Dovin guessed sixty in the time they worked together.  Although some members of his team died, he, Kay, Julius the Bright, and Permenu Waterskipper survived the years.  While the many successes gave Dovin great pride, it was the singular failure in that time that haunted him.

In 799, in the town of Lewsteinen in the Destroytian Republic, Dovin and his team faced a loth Corruptor called Calamutus.  These loths were known to Dovin and Kay, and it should have been no hard task to dispatch it.  By luck, it arrived in a market, already disguised.  Anyplace else and it would have been dead in less than a minute.  Lukurs the Bold called out for everyone in the market to stop.  They did for a moment, which would have allowed Dovin to quickly find the loth.  Both things devolved quickly.  Ugain, bad luck, as he would learn later, a band of thieves was just about to rob a passing noble who was traveling through the market covertly.  The nobles guards took Lukurs for a bandit, the thieves took him to be the law.  Chaos ensued.

Ill prepared for battle with trained bodyguards and a mundane band of thieves, Dovin and his group though to retreat, but the loth was still in the market, and worse, he started to kill civilians.  They had to remain to find and destroy it.  Dovin could not remember a more chaotic scene.  There was no way to tell innocent for combatant, thief from guard.  His ability to find the loth worked, but the mass of people and movement was such that it was near useless.  It only ended several minutes later when two locals Iottian agents stationed in the republic arrived and puts spells to work dispersing the crowd.  Kay, who had been communicating from afar, arrived later, as she unable to planarly travel at the time to have reached the area faster.

Calamutus escaped, two members of the team dead along with twenty five from the market.  A mix of thieves, guards, and civilians.  The local Iottians and Kay argued for a long time and Dovin and his team were detained for a day.  Two months later, the team was back at it, heavy hearted from their losses but still with a mission to complete.  Only successes after lifted their spirits, which were doing fairly well by the time 801 arrived and things crashed.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 30, 2021, 11:42:49 PM

Dovin part 2

Kallark became a cultist.  Sutyr betrayed the Counsil.  Iott abandoned the alliance with the guardians.  Life was chaotic.  Dovin ran as fast as he could from mission to mission.  He felt as if he ages three times as fast as he should have.  A veteran hunter, a skilled warrior, a proven leader, he was in high demand everywhere.  He slept little, he enjoyed less.  His team was split up, each given leadership of their own, having proven themselves.  Kay rarely communicated, but Dovin understood.

The years sped by.  It was always defeating one problem to see another arise.  Often Calamutus lurking, causing mischief, as if to spit in Dovin's eye, reminding him of his failure.  He would chase the loth through the islands and into the unknown and around the horn of Dedestroyt, but he never caught his prey.  If only he had a little more time every time, but something greater called him away at the last moment.  He should have been there to help defeat Miskit, he should reached Solaris in time to deliver a message, he should have been in Yellowia to prevent Ajax's capture, the town shouldn't have burned...

The plagues were of little concern at first to Dovin.  He was able to tend the sick without threat.  But then word came of Pelinduri, the latest disease to be named.  The Yinites confirmed to the guardians that it did indeed effect planar creatures.  Dovin was recalled, against his wished.  For far too long, even though it was not a year.  He trained others and remained in the vale.  By 810, the threat of plagues had faded some, and Dovin returned to the field.  His new mission was a solo one.  Search out the clerics of Chaos and kill them.  For some reason, they had become more forward and were reaching into the lower planes more than ever before.  Among their number was now a powerful Demonologist, a type of spellcaster that had not been seen on Habololy for hundreds of year.  Speculation was that the rise of Re'Alpf had lead the cult to take the drastic turn.

Thankful, Iott had a great dislike for the cult of Chaos, and Kay rejoined Dovin.  She appeared to have aged more than she should, as in the intervening years, he had only communicated with her telepathically.  With that said, she was a sharp as ever.  They had at their disposal Dovin's old team as well as several agents of Iott.  Two years of action decimated the cult.  They suspected help came from unlikely allies, and they did not turn it away.

The final battle, the end of the cult of Chaos, came early in 814.  In far off Ekarude, huddled within a tribe in the south, the last of the cult lingered.  Dovin arrived with Julius, Permenu, and Kay.  And another appeared in a ball of fire to aid them.  Dovin did not know fear as a general rule, but he knew who this was, and he had no illusions about what would happen he he turned his now legendary temper to Dovin and his team.  The elf looked no different from the last time Dovin and he had fought together thirty years before.  This time, bad luck was nowhere to be found.  The cult was ill prepared for the assembled group now facing them.  For a moment, Dovin thought he would have to die trying to bring the Iottian to justice as a fireball engulfed the village.  When the explosion cleared, only the cultist were aflame.  The innocent fled.

Dovin himself slew the last cleric, while Julies brought the Demonologist to heal.  Kay undid all of the connections that lingered to the lower planes in the area.  Before he died in a purging fire, the Demonologist cursed them.  His books were nowhere to be found.  The Iottian left, and Kay was obliged to go with him.  Sometime soon, she promised, she would come and help Dovin find the books. 

Upon finally arriving at Cape Tolya, Dovin said farewell to his friends after a meal.  They were heading off to other assignments.  He looked at the collection of items from the cultists and thought to himself that he had not been shopping in a while.  Some of the items were not useful to the guardians, and there was trade here better than anywhere else, since he would never deal with the wretched Collector.  He had not been in Magikowner's in quite a long time.  As he neared the shop, a crowed also approached.  He hid faster than they turned their eyes, and he looked on...

Monk 13 / Lupinal 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 31, 2021, 12:15:44 AM

The Company of Long Odds, Part 1 - and then there were 11

"I tell you, I ain't goin within fitty feet ack dat place!" - Reik

"Then stay here, ye stubborn rock, there is no better place to get what we need.  Smofarf grant me serenity to make it through this with you." - Montaron

"No plaz can have that much, you lie cook." - Razk

"Oh no, it does, it's magnificent, and the owner, he loves cupcakes." - Rubius

"No, not as many potions, but lots of other stuff.  Could use a sword." - Claude

"You have no sword?" - Acyll

"I don't have a sword, I do fine." - Grant

"Are you kidding?! Not useful?!" - Keldan

"Might be with Keldan on this one.  Its ship-flipping, claude-making, orc-returning useful." - Daane

"Wait, what kind of sword can do all that?" - Ari

"Meh." - Claude

"Excuse me, not to intrude; hello Prince Reik, Keeper Grant, Acyll, Rubius, Grandmaster Arishimoto.  To you others, my name is Dovin and I mean you no harm.  I am curious though, what are you all doing here."

"Oh, you are a lucky halfling, so glad you're here." Claude said as he rubbed Rubius' head.

"My name is Claude Greymander...the third." he tipped a foolishly small soaked hat.  This was very odd, as it wasn't raining.  "And this is the," he lowered his voice, "The Company of Long Odds.  You seem to already know some of us, which is a good sign in my estimation that you'll be joining us, but let me introduce you to Montaron Mountainmagic, Keldan Windblade, Razk, and Daane Silversword."

Dovin was taken aback.  Keldan Windblade was a Suian finalist.  Daane was the Grandmaster of the Silverswords.  He did not known Montaron or Razk by name, but considering the others...

"All the deities must be with us, Claude," Acyll said. "You asked for someone else who might be helpful?  Dovin would be near the top of that list for me."

"Helpful with what?" Dovin was a bit nervous.  This assemblage meant nothing small.

Claude walked close to Dovin.  The lazy-eyed, soaked hat sloshy booted human made him a bit uncomfortable so close.

"We're on a mission from Tfop." he whispered. "We're going to destroy Kallark."

Dovin's eyes got large and he scanned the others.  Razk was biting his arm, but everyone else gave him a knowing nod.

"I guess I'm in."  But I need to go to Magikowner's first.

"Us too."

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 31, 2021, 12:28:09 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 31, 2021, 12:15:44 AM

"We're on a mission from Tfop."

(http://honeybadgerhockeyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/were-on-a-mission-from-god.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 31, 2021, 01:31:11 PM

Shadow (Windblade, Tyrogatore)

Whether he ever had a name other than his moniker is up for debate.  Perhaps those that raised him at the orphanage knew when he was given to them what it was, or perhaps they had given him a name along the way that never stuck.  Whatever the case, he was the guardian shadow of the temple of Tyrogatore and the city of Lynkeed.  Leaving occasionally on a mission for Father Haas, he would soon return to the service of Father Adrian until his natural death and then as an agent of Father Hargon Tuskenhammer. 

Lynkeed was a free city when the reign of Iott began.  By that time, Shadow had already been Lynkeed guardian for more than five years.  As a one man processer of criminals, he did in the name of Tyrogatore what the city could not do on its own.  Without the backing of the Orcish Empire, it did not have the structure and funds to police itself well, especially as it grew, which it did quickly when it became a free city.  People of all types swarm to such a place, for good and nefarious reasons.  All quickly learned that to cross a certain line was to draw the attention of the Shadow and be disciplined at best by the clerics of Tyrogatore at the orphanage and at worst on the spot by the Shadow.

In those years, a number of unwanted elements were confronted and turned away by him.  He battled a collection agent, tinkers looking to set up shop, and a necromancer.  Along with the typical riff raff, he literally spanked an ornery gnome from the plateau who was not a tinker but dressed in an all white suit.  All of those never came back.

When Iott's reign began, Lynkeed was twice the size it was when Shadow had arrived more than thirty years before.  The city was ruled by the faiths of Tyrogatore and Everentual, who made and enforced the laws.  An orcish liaison held much influence, as did the counsel of merchants.  When the Iottian ambassador arrived and made an offer, Shadow did not approach, but it was not his position stop a deal.  Tyrogatore and his warnings looked foolish as the city flourished for the next five years.  Iott meant order, peace and wealth.  Lynkeed prospered.  Shadow had few outlets, so he traveled the area, avoiding the nations and taking the justice of Tyrogatore to smaller towns that typically did not enjoy Tyrogatore's security.

Before those years, his fame was known only in Lynkeed, but now, the area surrounding the city began to know him.  From the sea to the great forest to Borkondof and Yellowia and to the Orcish Empire, those untamed lands gained a measure of security and order thanks to Shadow.  He thought at times that Iott was not that bad.  Their structure in Lynkeed had a cascade effect and now the whole region was better off than it had been.  Shadow was wise enough to  see where he had been too judgmental.

When the call then came from Haas to help with a mission, Shadow did not hesitate.  When the mission proved to be the breaking of the circle of magic, he did not pause.  But he considered what Iott's removal might mean and he did wonder how much harder and chaotic life in the region might become if they withdrew.  Father Haas' and the assembled group completed the task, magic was broken.  Shadow rushed back to Lynkeed and awaited the collapse.  It did not come quickly.

Iott's insertion into life in the city had been so well planned that things continued as they were.  The Iottian consulate that was present in the city remained.  After months of expecting the worst, Shadow was forced to re-evaluate again and he moved into the surrounding areas to continue his task of bringing Tyrogatore to those lands.  He found upon his return that former orphans had taken up residence in some of those towns and founded shrines.  Building on his reputation, they preached the word of Father Haas.  Things were good.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 31, 2021, 04:04:54 PM

Shadow part 2

During the years after the breaking of the stones, the orphanage began to see an upswing in orphans.  There was never a shortage, but the amount seen following the failed crusade against Iott was unlike anything the living had seen.  Fortunately, Shadow's and Iott's efforts had made Lynkeed flourish and the city was able to absorb the large number.  The temple grew in size, buying nearby structures and converting them to orphanage use.  The reliquary, which had at this time been completely restored, was moved into a new building.

Shadow heard rumors and talk of uprisings against Iott, and some elements approached him to join them.  But his experience was not theirs.  The Iottians in Lynkeed had not been oppressive, they had not been unfair, they had not robbed and committed acts of war against the people.  If Tyrogatore was the judge and the guide and was to be believed, then no actions they had taken warranted such reprisals.  The Iottian ambassador to the city, a human named Burke, was not a flighty or aloof or arrogant as the agents of the insurgents told Shadow others were.  Burke was a down to earth, hard working wizard who in another life might have been a worshipper of Tyrogatore.

In 800, the time of the Graplore arrived.  Father Haas had considered Lynkeed to host the event, but it city's still friendly relationship with Iott dissuaded him.  Shadow attended the event, traveling with a number of participants, including a young man that Shadow picked as his representative.  The orphan reminded him of himself, and he thought one day he might be his replacement.  Vince, who was 5 when he came to the orphanage, had no chance of winning.  The experience would make him stronger, and that was Shadow's plan.  Upon his return, he had to clear out some troublemakers that were planning an attack on the Burke.  Shadow posted the saboteurs and their clickers to a wall for everyone to see.

As an independent city, Lynkeed had the freedom to make its own choices.  As some other nations distanced themselves from Iott, Lynkeed had not.  It remained in good order up until the time when Kallark rose to power.  In Lynkeed, little changed.  As Iott's power grew again, Lynkeed went unharmed.  When the plagues arrived, Lynkeed faired no better or worse than other cities.  Shadow focused on those sneaking into the city.  Numerous times, he was forced to cleanse himself after an encounter with a plague ridden agent.  It was dirty work.  But the orphanage remained safe.  It continued to flourish and as he neared fifty years old, Shadow could only look at his life with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

In his younger days, Shadow would not have guessed that Lynkeed would one day be seen as a safe haven, a example of good governance and co-operation.  From his perch on top of the orphanage, he would look out each night and listen to the sounds of the city.  No screams or drunken yells.  No constant arguments from the market that ended in violence.  Iottian planning and Tyrogatorian rules had brought them a successful city.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 31, 2021, 04:52:10 PM

Shadow part 3

In 811, shadow was making the rounds as he did most nights.  It was cold, windy, and quiet.  Nothing could stop time, and the cold bit into him more than it ever had before.  He was glad to see the glow of dull red in the sky above Burke's home.  A symbol he used to call shadow when he was needed.  Swiftly, he made his way to the ambassador's home.  It had no walls and was large but not obnoxiously so.  Shadow went in the secret door and moved into Burke's study.  The dark haired bearded man in his fifties had notes in front of him and a serious look.

"You have been found out my friend.  You were there on the day Magic was Broken.  You are a stone breaker.  An assassin has found you out and told me to set you up.  I will not, but I cannot let this go either, or my life is forfeit.  Go to Burrow Street, make it look like you do not know what is coming.  It will be a fair fight.  If you lose, Tyrogatore's judgement that will be.  If you win, no one else will know."

Shadow nodded his appreciation and sped off to the street.  Prepared as he walked into the dark windy night.  He soon learned the nature of his assailant.  Silent lightning crackled through the fierce wind.  He was shocked, but not seriously.  In the circles Shadow walked, the killers and assassins were known by reputation and moniker, but by name.  Iott had four killers, four hunters, one for each element.  The deadliest was the elf, a fire bringing fiend that would have annihilated Shadow.  This was the nipit, a creature of air and lightning.  Shadow now knew his opponent and had a plan.

Leaping onto the buildings, he rushed around, giving the appearance of an erratic dash.  Bolts came in from every direction.  The nipit riding them and moving from place to place.  Wind gusted in and knocked Shadow into walls as he leaped.  A bad turn on his old legs and a break was his worst fear.  Ice began to coat the roofs, but Shadow gliding on it without hardship.  Hail pelted him and he shrugged it off.  Mephits appeared and Shadow shattered them with ease.  Four ten minutes, the chase continued.  Shadow kept his composure and held to his plan.  A bolt of lightning came in and Shadow intentionally took part of the blast, falling but controlled.  The nipit appearing from the wind and brandished a spear of electricity.  Shadow felt the sting of the air around the nipit and fought against the shock of it.  Light coated the area, banishing the shadows.  That would make this harder.

Holding his attack until the last minute, as the nipit neared and the power of the spear caused Shadow skin to burn, he darted forward and past the nipit.  A simple attack, a single strike as he passed by.  Shadow was on the other side of the laughing Nipit, now badly burned from the lightning.  The Nipit's laughter stopped and he movement slowed.  He had fear in his eyes and they could barely turn to look at Shadow.  Their eyes locked for seconds and the nipit would have screamed in terror if he could have before his heart stopped and he fell dead.

True to his word, Burke never revealed the truth other than he had fought the Shadow and lost.  The reasons for the fight were never explained.  Iott had no reason to send other resources after Shadow, as Burke gave them no reason.  Life in Lynkeed continued to go well.

Kallark's defeat changed things.  The forces that despised Iott no longer feared reprisal and their pent up anger exploded around the world.  Word reached the orcish empire that Iott was still welcome in Lynkeed.  Some, the mob came.  A thousand orcs marched to the city.  The people wanted no part of the fight.  Word on the street was that Iott was finished.  Despite all the good that had been done, few were willing to stand against the mob.  The orcs and their allies looked from all signs of Iottians, but seeing the coming storm, most had fled.  Burke did not.  Having grown to love the city in the decades he was stationed there, he would not flee.  He stood outside of his home and waited.  Armed only with the truth of what he had done to make life in the city and the area better, he waited to confront the mob.

Shadow watched from above.  He had asked the temple to stand in the way, but they said the city was more important, protecting Tyrogatore name and the civilians for the next orcish reign over the city was paramount.  Only Shadow went out help, having ordered his apprentices to stand back and remember what had occurred.

When the charged Burke, he defended himself with spells, but it was not enough.  Shadow dropped into the mob, a dark angel.  He stared at them as they paused for a moment.  He uttered rare words, "This man has done no wrong.  Tyrogatore judges he should live."  For a moment, Shadow and Burke thought the crowd would disperse or move on.  It was the longest moment of his life.  But anger won the crowd over.  Calls for revenge drowned out the thoughts of justice.  The mob pushed forward.

Watching from a distance, Vince would not let himself cry.  He only held barely held himself back.  He would later tell the story of Shadow, who single-handedly broke a mob of a thousand orcs.  Who fought on as his limbs were broken and his eyes gouged.  Who saved his friend's life at the cost of his own.

Vince lead the ceremony to bury his master behind the orphanage.  A statute was built above so that the city would remember the man that watched and protected them for decades.  The shadow that was over Lynkeed for many years was lifted, and the city was worse off for it.

Rogue 5/ Fighter 2/ Monk 2/ Cleric 2/ Vecustan 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 31, 2021, 09:48:37 PM

6 left...who will be last...and why will they be last?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on January 31, 2021, 10:01:15 PM

This is the order
 next - Ash, then Vor'Ruk ( he's the orc stuck with Ajax) Haas, Valizar, Tchua, Finally Harrick.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on January 31, 2021, 10:40:43 PM

Quote from: Zunder on January 31, 2021, 10:01:15 PM

This is the order
 next - Ash, then Vor'Ruk ( he's the orc stuck with Ajax) Haas, Valizar, Tchua, Finally Harrick.

First- I’m sure Valizar will make a mess. Situationally and of some poor unfortunates.

My money is: Harrick, Vor’Ruk (trapped with Ajax), Ash (rescues them), Valizar, Haas, T’Chau (with Kallark).

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on January 31, 2021, 11:01:06 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 31, 2021, 10:40:43 PM

First- I’m sure Valizar will make a mess. Situationally and of some poor unfortunates.

My money is: Harrick, Vor’Ruk (trapped with Ajax), Ash (rescues them), Valizar, Haas, T’Chau (with Kallark).

I got Vor'Ruk, Ash, Harrick, Valizar, Haas, T'chau (Why is he last? Because, plot twist, he is Kallark!)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on January 31, 2021, 11:31:50 PM

Valizar (Malchia, Tyrogatore)

'There is no peace in the forest, not while the enemies of Valizar live.'

'There is only glory and pain.'

'You will be Judged.'

'Listen to the words of Father Haas.'

These were the lines most uttered by the warlord of the lizardfolk of the Great Forest.  When it had become clear that the only way to organize them was to give them a warlord, that was what was decided.  The southern coalition did not like it, but the other options were worse.  So soon after the treaty, the agreed to back Valizar as leader of the lizardfolk.  It took some doing.  The Devourer also wanted the title, and he and Valizar struggled for several years gathering villages to each side.  Few others got involved.  The treaty meant that they couldn't, and even if it allowed for it, neither wanted to step into the frey.

The posturing ended in 794, and the two met in a swamp surrounded by their followers.  Vass and Gatori, a few wugs and other creatures; as many as could fit packed around the area to see and hear the epic struggle.  The to behemoths, enchanted to be even larger than they normal massive size shook the ground as the charged each other.  Trees bent as the stepped. Animals stubbled from the shockwaves.  Their roars deafened the young and scared the old to death.  Like legendary beasts they wrestled and every time one drove the other to the ground the splash of water doused a hundred spectators.  Their tail slaps were as thunderclaps, their claws lightning.

Although it seemed to those watching to last minutes, no creatures could withstand the terrible force of the blows for the two.  They were quick to beat each other nearly unconscious and not long to tire for the strain.  The devourer opened its mouth and Valizar saw annihilation awaiting in the magically dark maw.  He grasped the jaws and held them.  With all his strength he kept them from closing on him.  Finally, the devourer stepped back.  Determined to try again it lunged at Valizar again, now aiming for his arm.  With a sudden snap, the arm was gone, eaten and annihilated.  Furious, Valizar battered his foe again and again with his remaining arm.  He felt the crack of scales and the Devourer was stunned by the ferocity.

Trying to crawl away and regain his feet, Valizar moved quickly to stop his foe.  Stepping on one hand with his good foot, he drove the metal toes of the other into the lower jaw of the grounded Devourer.  Grabbing the upper jaw with his remaining hand, he roared out to Tyrogatore and wrenched back.  Time and again, he roared and pulled with all his might.  Finally, a tear and a snap.  Valizar pulled back the jaw farther until he began to turn the Devourer inside out as the spectators fled in horror.  The darkness inside of the monster began to spill out and annihilate it.  Valizar stepped back, not quite understanding what was happening, but enjoying the destruction of his foe.  Moments later, there was nothing left.

It took months, but he had a hand and arm made to match his foot.  Warlord of the lizardfolk, Devourer destoyed, Tyrogatore praises; Valizar took a breath and thought of the next things on his list.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 01, 2021, 01:20:11 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on January 31, 2021, 11:31:50 PM

Valizar pulled back the jaw farther until he began to turn the Devourer inside out as the spectators fled in horror.  The darkness inside of the monster began to spill out and annihilate it.  Valizar stepped back, not quite understanding what was happening, but enjoying the destruction of his foe.  Moments later, there was nothing left.

(https://media.giphy.com/media/3oFzmkkwfOGlzZ0gxi/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 01, 2021, 08:05:55 AM

Damn, ok, now


- Haas ( to set up Valizar's next list item )
- Vor'Ruk ( how he was captured )
- Ash ( Killing the Yellowians )
- Tchau / Harrick - working together ( fire thing )

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 01, 2021, 10:10:44 AM

We will need a best death scene category at the end to be voted upon.  Maybe need to be split between PCs death and NPC death?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 01, 2021, 10:43:39 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 01, 2021, 10:10:44 AM

We will need a best death scene category at the end to be voted upon.  Maybe need to be split between PCs death and NPC death?

We should take nominations, and then vote.  But that is for after your done!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 01, 2021, 11:31:24 AM

Valizar part 2

'Honor is death by stomp, insult is death by slap'

'Be pure of body'

'Judgement for all'

'Listen to the words of Father Haas'

Ruling was easy.  Obey or be disciplined.  Vass listened, Gatori listened, many others fled Valizar's rule.  Haas visited often to make sure things remained in line with Tyrogatore's teachings.  To ensure a voice of reason was there, the Vass Gizil was appointed advisor to the warlord at Haas' request.  Valizar was content to have another with him that could take care of the meaningless things: talking to other realms, picking out dates, setting values, deciding what coinage was allowed, picking other positions of importance.

Akrak and Valizar met in early 796.  They area was filled with thousands of gnolls and lizardfolk it what everyone who heard of the meeting assumed would be a battle.  Iott watched from above.  Haas mediated the conversation.  There was hissing, growling, barking and contests of strength and skill between the two behemoths.  Valizar won the wrestling, Akar the Archery, Valizar the eating, Akrak the drinking.  Both sides called out challenges the two should attempt to best each other at doing.  One disguised fey thought it was particularly clever and funny and yelled out writing.  Uncovered, he was deemed a spy and given a death sentence.  This led to the closest the meeting got to battle.  Death by arrow or slap.  To solve the problem, Haas judged that as the judge of the trial, the choice was his, and therefore he would carry out the punishment at his temple.  The grumpy warlords agreed and several days of revelry commenced.  The world breathed a sign of relief.

Breaking the stones was glorious.  Valizar basked in the thought of wizards laid low.  When asked if he would join the crusade of the orcs against Iott soon after, not even Haas could convince him to wait.  Akrak and this gnolls were to be the second wave.  The lizardfolk would arrive before them.  Leading a vanguard of 15,000, Valizar moved quickly behind the orcs fast march.  The orcs, with help from the clouds, would cross the sea.  Valizar and his army would swim across and surprise the Iottians from a flank.  Complete victory, the island would be theirs.

When the army reached the sea, Valizar waded in.  Knowing sea monster guarded it, he made his presence felt.  Beast after beast attacked him, but he crushed them one by one.  Clearing a path for his horde, the army swam across.  They dragged the serpents bodies with them.  A dozen or more died at Valizar's hand.  When they reached the island, they set about skinning the serpents and making them into banners, blessed by Tyrogatore.  They coated themselves in the blood of the serpents, marking themselves with signs of power and protection.  They could not see or communicate with the orcs, but scouts reported the battle had commenced miles away.  Seeing a village, Valizar lead them on the attack.  Iottians fled before them.  Meager spells lashed out and did little to the horde.  The village was theirs, it would be the first of many.

Setting up a base, Valizar sent messengers back across the water and to the orcs.  He sent scouts to find the next target.  The hours passed, none returned.  The clerics reported no news.  Valizar's eyes narrowed and a hint of worry grew.  He ordered defenses be made and the fastest path back across the sea be found.  The temperature began to drop.  Despite the efforts of the clerics, it did not relent.  The water behind them froze.  The sky remained clear but a mist surrounded the horde at a distance.  Valizar roared that magic seemed to be working.  Knowing enough to understand that deception was at play, he ordered the horde retreat.  The ice and cold water were better than what he knew the Iottians could bring to bare.

For many, it was too late.  The Iottian army, which had rarely needed to take the field of battle, was a force.  On the island, lead by Arnold Blockard, no one had yet seen their full might.  The captain and his squad or armored casters walked out of the mist towards the village.  Spells of all type battered the withdrawing horde.  Valizar and his retinue charged forward defiantly.  He would crush the leader, break their spirit.  Through wind and ice they charged.  The armored squad took up its position and readied for the attack.  Defensing magic screeched as the two groups collided.  Lizardfolk fell victim to all manner of ailments and were unable to fight.  Valizar remained unstoppable.  Clapped his hands in a mighty strike, instantly destroyed a summoned giant and sending almost all the armored casters to the ground.  Arnold alone stood.

Undeterred by smoke, illusion, breaking down the wall of stone, Valizar reached his prey and grabbed hold.  The man could not be crushed.  He bit Arnold, and he could not be pierced.  He slapped him and he stood firm, all the while stabbing with a blade of force.  He had enough of this, so Valizar pinned him to the ground and raised the mighty metal foot.  "Tyrogatore judges you!" he bellowed and pointed down with his metal hand.  The foot came down and shook the earth.  Arnold was not there.  Incensed, Valizar wanted to rage through the squad and smash them all.  The spells were not building upon him, and even mighty Valizar could not withstand their weight.  Death to these heathens, these weak men, this would not be then end  for Valizar.  He withdrew, collecting as many of his kin as he could in his arms, mouth, and tail.  They made it back to across the sea.  Only a quarter made it back.  Warlord Valizar's gloom marred him for several years.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 01, 2021, 01:06:22 PM

Valizar part 3

'Death is not the goal, but it often happens'

'There are always more pushups'

'Be fair in judgement'

'Listen to the words of Father Haas'

Valizar and the lizardfolk of the Great Forest did little in the years of Iott's decline.  After the crusade failed, there wasn't much work for large armies.  Wug warfare was the style.  Valizar practiced and trained and kept his people in line.  He brought some discipline and order.  He saw little of his brothers in the faith.  He could do little to accomplish his other goals.  He sent out vass to locate Zat.  He sent Gatori to look for clues to the appearance of Stronmus.  He watched the skies for giants.

The return of Iott's power meant little to Valizar and the lizardfolk.  The continued to be left out of the machinations of the two sides.  Valizar dismissed entreating by all to get the lizardfolk to throw in with the wizards of Lyla or the tinkers of Gneon.  What a dismal time it was.  Valizar resigned himself to trying to make the realm he ruled better.  His rule was an ironfisted one.  Obey or be disciplined.  No one survived a second disciplining.  The foreigners stayed away, none wanted to risk violating his rules.  Cults and religions that did not adhere to the tenants of Tyrogatore were given notice.

When the plagues came, Valizar demanded an even greater level of fitness.  Only strength would keep disease away.  Those that caught it had not properly devoted themselves to Tyrogatore's rules.  His vision was aided by the fact that the lizardfolk were resistance to half of the plague and by the fact they less travel into and out of the realm meant less spread.  Further confirmation of the righteousness of his beliefs came when word reached him that Zat had died, from the plagues.  The right justice of Tyrogatore!

As Akar's horde used the plagues to scour the continent, Valizar guarded his realm.  Many times the lizardfolk fought off attacks.  Valizar wanted to face Akrak in combat, but he had learned how important he was to his people and leaving to face the other Warlord would not end well for them.  The trip would be long as Akrak was fast and hid well.  The things that could happen while Valizar was gone outweighed the glory of the personal victory.  So he remained, protecting the realm.  Twice, he fought raiding packs and defeated them.  That would have to be enough.

Years more passed.  The realm of the lizardfolk grew more tightly knit under Valizar's rule.  Tyrgoatore's faith grew larger and more dominant.  He started to look for ways to make it better.  Bigger was better, and so he began to plan for expand the realm.  Garlaccal was weakened by the death of Akrak, so perhaps west.  There were giants to the north, perhaps removing them.  Balinhost to the east, they should be let to live their meager lives, but go around them maybe.  Eventually, he could reach Scalehome.  Glory for Tyrogatore, the defeat of one that would claim the mantle of scaled king.

Visions of grandeur fought in Valizar's mind.  The time approached when this could happen.  He collected, prepared and tested.  Kallark was then defeated and along with it magic.  Now was the time, a new Tyrogatorian Crusade with Valizar at its head.  The world would tremble!

Cleric 1 / Monk 4 / Kordan 10 / Wrestler 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 01, 2021, 01:09:42 PM

Quote from: whitesword on January 31, 2021, 10:40:43 PM

First- I’m sure Valizar will make a mess. Situationally and of some poor unfortunates.

(https://www.macgasm.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bill-hader-this.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 10:38:02 AM

Harrick Kindle (Zunder, Plateau)

Existence, for the term life is a loaded one when talking with those aligned with the powers of undeath, began anew for Harrick with his conversion to the faith of the quasi deity Vestilion.  Falan's folly had proven it was the right decision.  As lord the Skull Keep, as high cleric of the faith, Harrick set the rules and was the mortal (for now) voice of his new lord in the world.  Wealth and health came with this position.  Those seeking eternal life came to Vestilion to gain that, and a hearty (and heart) donation was in order.  Harrick took only what was due to him, as per the rules created by him.  For the rest of his years, he sent enough coin home with letters to Icefia making sure his family was secure.

Iott's reign was a good time for the faith.  Aligned with powerful magic, and having Gneon and his thinkers distracted, Harrick was free to expand.  Competing with others than wanted to take on the mantle of god of the undead was a challenge.  Over the years, many sought out the title: Loomashyn, Merid, the servants of Nilas'Ahnor, Miskit, Zeist, Admiral Genadiya, and others.  Harrick played to his advantages.  General alignment with Iott, the ability of intelligent undead to plan and strategize, avoiding wanton destruction and slaughter, and a tentative agreement with Gneon and his tinker neighbors were all helpful in his quest.

The Bulwark was the largest obstacle in the way.  Already having sent one crusade to destroy the Skull Keep, Harrick was always on the watch for other attacks.  The reign of Iott years saw him rescuing those on their way to achieve eternal life.  He navigated the dangerous roads of the plateau and beyond to get pilgrims to Vestilion.  He also had to fight off incursions by the other cults seeking to destroy the faith.  It was a busy five years, but her persevered.  By the end of the time, three hundred pilgrims had been guided to everlasting life.  What was needed now was a way to get them into the world to continue their existence in the name of their new lord.

The Day Magic was not Broken, for Necromancy was ever present to Harrick to use, was a good day for the faith.  Being present and on the side of right, magic, and Iott's interests, served him well.  As the world wondered what would come next.  As crusader began and battles occurred, Harrick went on the offensive.  Other claimants to the title of Lord of Undeath relied on other magics to aid them far more than Harrick.  The plateau was his first target.  He spent year cleansing it of most threats.  Unintelligent undead was made extinct on the plateau.  The faiths that would compete with him were abolished, or in the case of Zeist, made to give up the quest for the title.  The quasi deity Lightstalker was dealt a mighty blow when his high cleric Artello Vansdale, was killed and his high temple burnt to the ground.  Thanks to Harrick's effort, the deity would never recover and fell from power several years later.  The plateau was Vestilion's alone.  By 800, the only organized opposition on it was the Bullark and the faith of Falan.

As much as he wanted to lay low the temple and demonstrate the might of Vestilion, it could not be done.  Any major attack would have decimated Harrick's forces and may not have succeeded.  He resigned to keep the temple in check while he expanded beyond the plateau.  The effort needed to be organized and coordinated well.  It could not run afoul of Iott or Gneon's forces.  It needed to walk in behind the other defeated entities looking to claim the throne of undeath.  The return of magic power to Iott and the transcending of Kallark in 801 gave Harrick another opportunity to advance the faith.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 02, 2021, 10:51:00 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 10:38:02 AM

Harrick Kindle (Zunder, Plateau)

The quasi deity Lightstalker was dealt a mighty blow when his high cleric Artello Vansdale, was killed and his high temple burnt to the ground.  Thanks to Harrick's effort, the deity would never recover and fell from power several years later. 

My favorite part!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 02, 2021, 10:56:11 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 10:38:02 AM

Harrick Kindle (Zunder, Plateau)


undead was made extinct on the plateau.

Learning from Trump, I wanted to call out this amazing tidbit.  See, you guys should have made me a real diety!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 02, 2021, 11:48:19 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 01, 2021, 01:06:22 PM

Further confirmation of the righteousness of his beliefs came when word reached him that Zat had died, from the plagues.  The right justice of Tyrogatore!

(https://i.imgflip.com/4wdcyv.jpg)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 12:03:07 PM

Harrick part 2

Orders were given to all the faithful of Vestilion: do not interfere with Iott.  Do not seek out their wizards to convert.  Do no give them any reason to put the faith on their enemies list.  In addition to Iott, Harrick feared the crusaders.  Being of so called light and holiness that emerged to seek out and annihilate those that escaped death.  Olokas was chief among them, traveling the continent ending the existence of numerous sentient entities.  As much as he wanted to strike out, the power of the Counsel that backed these agents were not to be tested, not to be provoked.  Stay in the shadows, keep clear of holy places and holy agents.  For now, grow the faith slowly, quietly.  Preach far from the watching eyes of the non-believers.  Strike only rivals to the claim.

Harrick had another great thought, one that advanced the faith more than any other.  Mindless undead, which were just tools, were hated by most of the world for reasons that ignorance.  But they were mindless tools, so they could be used in whatever way was needed.  Harrick used them as a tool of good will.  He ordered the faithful to not create them, to destroy them when helpful and make it clear to those around what they were doing and the difference.  Using the fires of Vestilion, the vampires and mindful undead that he led could hutn down and destroy the mindless.  Immune to their deadliest attacks, Vestilion's agents were perfectly suited for the task.

While the other powers that sough to claim the mantle of lord of undeath used fear to boost their claim, Harrick used helpfulness.  Where they used brute force, he used logic.  Where they used chaos, he used order.  Order was what Iott wanted, so they did not object.  Fortune smiled upon Vestilion when Sutyr betrayed and left the Counsel.  A deity of similar philosophy, that was the lord of fire, now a cultist.  The path forward became more clear.  Harrick sought to convert faithful of Sutyr now.  Those whose adherence to law and order could not align with leaving the Counsil.  It was a small group to be sure, but worth the effort.

To lead the effort, Harrick enlisted one of his lieutenants.  An Amatine gnome turned death knight, Lord Gnairth.  The gnomes moved around the world, finding the dispirited faithful of Sutyr and brought the to the Skull Keep, where after years of education, they would hopefully see the fiery light and convert.

The plagues brought another opportunity to Harrick.   Again, the others that sought to claim the mantle saw them many dying as an opportunity to swell their ranks.  Merid did just that, and until his destruction, Harrick feared the creature would cross the finish line before Vestilion.  Harrick's plan was different.  Go to those dying and offer them the cure that other clerics and faiths could not.  Endless existence, free from the fear of disease and illness.  It was here, in those plague years, that the faith expanded and founded shrines around the world.  A dozen were consecrated as places where the sick could find eternal peace.  Such was the state of the world that half survived through to the end of the plagues.

This effort had crossed the line for some, and when Falan's faith learned of the shrines, they had enough.  The bulwark, which has failed in their crusade two decades before now had new reason and the blessing of the religion to again move against Skull Keep.  Calling upon the agents of Falan that they could, the Bulwark marched to war again.

In 812, a force of thousands left the temple.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 02, 2021, 12:55:27 PM

Ajax is going to be so pissed if he ever gets out of prison.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 02:13:08 PM

Haas Tuskenhammer (Hero, Tyrogatore)

With a treaty signed bringing a tentative peace to the Great Forest, Haas had to put that behind him.  For many years, the recognized, if not official high cleric of the religion had been preoccupied with the war against Scalehome.  Greenfellow, Skygiants, and fey and consumed his attention.  He now had to look upon the religion in the world and assess what needed to be done.  So much damage had been done during the conspiracy against Stasis and Tyrogatore.  Much rebuilding was needed.

Haas left the forest in the capable hands of Grant.  He ordered celebrations of the end of the war to be held in all shrines and temples.  These would feature contests of physical skill.  He first went to the high temple in Jaswap so that all were certain he was now on the throne of Tyrgatore.  He proclaimed that Tyranny in all forms would be opposed by the religion and pointed to the success in Baenrl as an example.  He denounced Iottian tyranny as it began.  Then, he set out on a world tour.  For five years, during the reign of Iott, he visited every temple and shrine he could reach.  Whenever he came to one, he would declare a festival of contests and declare they should be held yearly in honor of Tyrogatore.

Through the Destroytian Republic and Thalmeret he traveled.  In the republic, he celebrated the 75th birthday of Jeevone Deluke, a judge of Tyrogatore that has been serving for more than 50 years.  In Thalmeret, he freed several clerics of Tyrogatore from an inappropriate sentence for violating the laws of decency.  The females left the nation with him to avoid further persecution.  In Hertoplowis, he broke bread with the high clerics of the other judges, hoping to make peace with Everentual, knowing that continued strife between judges only hurt the goal of justice.

Traveling through Loahk, he was surprised to find a land that he knew little about.  Shrines to Tyrogatore that had never met a cleric from beyond their land.  He would have liked to visit the top of the plateau they mentioned, but sightseeing was a luxury he could not afford.  In Undrile, he faced a test he could not overcome.  Once a seat of power for Tyrogatore, the place had fallen far.  Clowns and addicts ran roughshod through the city.  Order was hard to find and the wealthy lorded over the poor.  Haas declared a contest to honor the best athletes in the city.  He promised praise and honor to those that won.  He made it known to the nearby lizardfolk villages and to the elves to the north and Loahk.  He spent a year setting it up, and was confident he could restore the city.  While he was there, things improved thanks to his oversight.

When the time came for the festival, in 794, the city was in its glory.  Ships had sailed in to witness the festivities.  Elders said they had not seen the city in this state in two decades.  Haas smiled at his accomplishment, but more was to be done.  Cheers rang out as he called an opening to the games.  The first contest would be one of vaulting.  A jungle elf of surpassing skill was present and expected to win.  Haas frowned at the gambling that was rampant, but he had more important matters to attend.  The elf did not win, and Haas grew sour.  The faithful elf had been defeated by a colorful nipit sporting that tattoo of the three eyed clown, the local circus.

The contests continued, and Haas grew more annoyed.  Again and again, these clowns defeated the faithful of Tyrogatore.  They mocked the practice, the eschewed the discipline, and yet in fairness, they won.  The end of the fortnight closed in, and it became clear that the faithful of Tyrogatore would not win the majority of contests.  When the awards ceremonies arrived and the final feast came, Haas remained composed.  His plan had failed.  He feared that when he left the city, things would soon fall back.  He could do little.  Other cities needed his guidance.  He needed to have faith in those he left here.

So Haas headed north in Yellowia.  He found Yellowia angering and wanted to spend little time there.  The religion was small and uninfluential.  His only pleasant time in the nation was spent at the Awkland estate, where renowned grappler and former Graplore contestant Henry lived.  Haas next had to pick between Borkondof and the Orcish Empire, but he would reach neither.  His next stop was the Great Forest, the circle and dealing with the changes that came to the treaty in the forest after that.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 02:44:04 PM

Haas part 2

Magic broken was a glorious boon for the tenants of the faith.  More than ever, discipline and fitness were essential.  No longer could enemies hide behind their weave of endless spells.  No longer could the sins of sloth and avarice so easily be washed away with those with the coin to pay for it.  Haas thanked Tyrogatore for the success, and was confident that Iott's time of tyranny would not last long.  In 797, he restarted his travels.  Now, in addition to the festivals and contests, he announced the location for the Graplore in 800.  For the first time in 200 years, it would be held in Jaswap, home to the religion.  His travels also included rousing talks proclaiming an end to Iottian tyranny.  His only hesitation was the leader of the revolt, Gneon.  Nonetheless, this was a better path, one without Iott and arcane magic dominating.

Through Borkondof, where the faith was strong and Haas smiled despite the sometimes feral behavior of the residents, he went.  Stopping at Lynkeed, he spent several months at his old home, visiting his old friends.  Then into the empire.  He, as in Yellowia, he was disappointed.  The emperor was a not a fine symbol of strength and wisdom.  He was an aging bureaucrat, held in place by an Iottian governor.  The failed orcish crusade and only solidified his position.  Unable to change the emporer, Haas resigned to going to the many shrines and temples and doing what he could.

Haas quickly made his way to the last high temple in Palumbton.  Here, all was well.  Koth kept the region in order.  Iott and Gneon wanted little to do with the backwater land.  Haas was able to relax and smile for a bit.  Almost a vacation.  He met with Foram Farfist, a halfling gladiator who many felt could win the Graplore.  With Iott's reign lifted, and the event in Jaswap, Haas expected attendance to be incredible.  If the mood in Barnstenagor was any indication, he needed to get to Jaswap to prepare.  With ten months to go, Haas returned to the high temple and began preparations.  A high cleric of Tyrogatore was judged on many things.  The success of a Graplore was high on that list.

The event was heavily attended, but missing dignitaries one might expect.  Iott did not participate.  Not that they would have had more than a handful of entrants, and not that those that did enter had any chance of winning, but it was odd for a powerful nation to not attend.  also strange was the lack of presence by Gneon and his Coalition.  While not a nation in the normal sense, few in the world did not at current count Gneon and the forces he lead as a unique entity.  But every other nation of note was in attendance.  Layraedia and the Grean Republic, Yellowia and the Destroytian Republic, Pacyr and Hertoplowis.  Lesser nation and ancient ones, small and large, all other attended.  The field was enormous.  Despite the strain of the past two decades, the population had been booming.  Especially the years of Iott's reign with the safety it brought, combined with the proliferation of the Yinites, meant a population many millions larger than the world had at the last Graplore.

It was a glorious event.  A Yinite defender named Sho'nite put the judges to the test when he tried to win by exhausting his opponents with a tireless defense.  A four armed fey caused a great stir and debate as to whether it should be allowed to compete.  A front giant almost won and the rift between Tyrogatore and the giants of the sky grew larger when Haas was forced to disallow a Cloud giant from competing, his size proving too large to make any competition legitimate.  A gremlin managed to win entry and his comedy got him disqualified even though it was the talk of the tournament for weeks.

The event ended, Haas crowned the winner with satisfaction, and it could not have been a greater success for the religion, the city, the world, and Haas.  Planning his next trips, Haas took months to relax as he did.  He was a dwarf, he had many years of life left, but even he needed a break from the mental effort of being high cleric.  Before he left on the next part of his world tour, Kallark transcended.  Haas saw this for what it was and know now that the world may not be able to stop them this time.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 02, 2021, 03:10:43 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 02:44:04 PM

Haas part 2

The event was heavily attended, but missing dignitaries one might expect.  Iott did not participate.

I’m sure the invitation just got lost in the mail. Check the Iottian capital mail room for a letter addressed to “that would be despotic c**t from Iott.”

Love that Haas turned his focus inward to strengthen the religion, rather than the outward conflict that has been the way for so long.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 02, 2021, 03:19:03 PM

Quote from: Hero on February 02, 2021, 03:10:43 PM

I’m sure the invitation just got lost in the mail. Check the Iottian capital mail room for a letter addressed to “that would be despotic c**t from Iott.”

Bwahhhahhhhhh!!!!!!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 02, 2021, 03:28:47 PM

Quote from: Hero on February 02, 2021, 03:10:43 PM

I’m sure the invitation just got lost in the mail. Check the Iottian capital mail room for a letter addressed to “that would be despotic c**t from Iott.”

Love that Haas turned his focus inward to strengthen the religion, rather than the outward conflict that has been the way for so long.

Don't worry, Valizar has your back when it comes to outward conflicts. 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 02, 2021, 03:53:33 PM

Quote from: Malchia on February 02, 2021, 03:28:47 PM

Don't worry, Valizar has your back when it comes to outward conflicts.

He's stuck in a force cage...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 03:57:42 PM

Haas part 3

Needed to consult with his allies in Nomagrok and having the opportunity to travel with those leaving the Graplore, Haas decided it was time to go to the String Mountains.  Leaving the high temple in capable hands, he went north with the Frost Giant Rimstad who once competed in the Graplore but now told stories of the battles; the gargoyle whose name translated to 'the clawed guardian' and that Haas referred to Stoneclaw who had compete and nearly won the event; and the barbarian Tolydyr Strongback who lived in the Frozensky forest and who also came close to winning.  Their entourage included two dozen.

They carved a path through the desert, stopping at shrines along the way.  At each one, Haas spoke of the path he expected the faithful to take.  He trained those capable in the ways of the Blessed Fist, a path he had by now perfected.  The elite combatants with him offered training as well.  When they left a shrine, those they left behind felt capable of taking on any opponent.  Haas had one in mind.

Reaching Amansky, Haas was angered by their refusal to let him enter the jungle.  They did not want what he was selling.  He demanded an audience with the shrine to Tyrogatore and was refused.  He visited anyway.  The trudge through the jungle was unpleasant.  Hindered and watched the whole way, the group which included many you did not know the jungle was angry and came close to stomping those that watched them several times.  The shrine visit lasted a long time, as Haas made a point to the powers of Amansky.  The Sakor'akai he left in charge promised to not be cowed by the leaders of the nation.

Around the plateau the group went, stopping at Palumbton and through the Rosetree forest, where the experience was not unlike the one they received in Amansky.  Tavis Strongbranch, who had competed in the Graplore but had returned home swiftly, warned Haas to leave the kingdom.  He challenged Haas to a fight, if Haas won, they could stay.  Without spells, the battle was even.  Tavis was a defender and able to stall and stalemate Haas, although he could not beat him.  After an hour, the fight was called and the king declared that since Haas had not won, he must leave.  Begrudging, he did, after a visit to the shrine in the forest.

From Northut they sailed to Port Springs.  The tour of the mountains was a great success. Everywhere they went, Haas and the group was welcome.  Nomagrok, the Kingdom of Frost, the Clandom.  He even found safe haven among several towns of the Dwarven Kingdom, those inhabited mainly by Granitebreaker clan dwarves.  The religion was strong on this continent.  Now he turned to a challenge again, the Badlands of the Vishtoo and the Grean Republic.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 02, 2021, 04:10:20 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 03:57:42 PM

Haas part 3

Now he turned to a challenge again, the Badlands of the Vishtoo and the Grean Republic.

I really hope an encounter with Razilav is in Haas’ future.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 04:16:32 PM

Haas part 4

No high cleric to his knowledge had ever visited the lands of the Vishtoo.  Haas now traveled with a small retinue of clerics and faithful that started following him on their long journey.  He was surprised to find a town at the edge of the lands.  There, he was forced to fight the local cleric of Vishtoo to be allowed entry.  And that was the way.  In every town, he fought to be allowed to stay.  In every town, he won.  News of his coming preceded him.  Larger crowds gathered at each new stop.  He spoke of Tyrogatore, but was wise enough not to denigrate Vishtoo.  He found the Vishtoo, and the rare other races he saw in the villages, to be receptive and respectful, once he had defeated their champion.

The locals guided him to each next village and gave him an idea of what to expect.  Only a few did he avoid, realizing that there was nothing to be gained for visiting a place dedicated to Chaos or some other faith where the visit would end in death.  As he nearly the largest village, what he was told was more a city and the home to the Warlord of Vishtoo, he came to the town of S'z't.  Haas could not pronounce it, none of the sounds that emanated from the faces of the Vishtoo could be accurately made by mouthed races.  It meant that Haas always had to have a spell of communication active, which made things difficult in this time of changed magic.  In this town, he again faced a challenge in the form of Bezeded S'z't.  When the Vishtoo stepped into the arena, Haas furrowed his brow and his lips formed an unfamiliar twist of concern.  What was before him was no creature of flesh and blood.  To every estimation, it was living stone, not far off from a gargoyle.  But Haas could find no cheating, and so he readied to fight.   The Vishtoo took shot and shot from Haas and did not bend.  His return blows were profound.  He was faster than Haas, taller than Haas, and stronger than Haas.  Wisdom and toughness carried Haas far, but finally, realizing that to continue would lead to death and an end to his so far successfully quest, Haas conceded.  In doing so, he taught a lesson to those that watched.  Defeat not end in death.  Honor can be held still by the loser.  A feast was held, the first time such an event had occurred in the badlands for them.  It was strange.  There was no solid food.  Before leaving Haas and Bezeded exchanged tokens of respect.  Haas now had to leave the badlands and head to the Grean Republic.

Once out of sight of the badlands, he punished himself for losing.  Those that traveled with him could not bare to watch.

Haas' visit to the Grean Republic was interesting.  It...

~This section has been deemed inappropriate for the general populace.  By order of of the Tri Counsil, all information contained herein is stricken from all records.  Any mention that such a visit occurred is incorrect and such mentions will lead to the re-education of those involved.~

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 04:18:07 PM

Quote from: Hero on February 02, 2021, 04:10:20 PM

I really hope an encounter with Razilav is in Haas’ future.

You get a warrant, you get a warrant, you get a warrant...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 02, 2021, 04:31:10 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 04:16:32 PM

Haas' visit to the Grean Republic was interesting.  It...

~This section has been deemed inappropriate for the general populace.  By order of of the Tri Counsil, all information contained herein is stricken from all records.  Any mention that such a visit occurred is incorrect and such mentions will lead to the re-education of those involved.~

(https://static.simpsonswiki.com/images/4/44/Re-Neducation_Center.png)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 04:34:16 PM

Haas part 5 (if I got paid to be off everyday, would every character have more parts to their story?)

Walking the path from the String Mountains to Icefia was an experience Haas did not expect to have.  He traveled with a giant named Grognoth, who was intriguing.  He was able to teach the giant a few maneuvers to add to his unarmed repertoire.  The trip was long, but they encountered no problems.  Now Haas was in Gnarland.  No living gnome could remember the high cleric of Tyrgatore visiting them.  As many of the nations Haas visited, this one was strange and different from anything he saw before.  There were shrines and a temple to Tyrogatore.  He was happy to spend months here, a place where the faith seemed unharmed by the events of the past few decades.  He even met some ice gnome females that lived up to the reputation that even he had heard.  Unsurpassed natural beauty.

The gnomes guided him to the lands of the chosen, which he felt obligated to visit since he knew there was at least one shrine.  With Haas at the lead, the group was not turned away.  Frostine and Tyrogatore were neither allies nor enemies.  The visit was formal and not lengthy.  The shrine was in good order.  The chosen lived a hard life, and for that they were worthy of respect.  Even here, threats from the outer world existing.  Iott had threatened them with untold fire if they did not agree to their rule.  The forces of a place called Greysnows had infected some with the vile ways of that place and taken control of some of their lands.  Haas offered his assistance, but they declined.

To the Kingdom of Icefia he went...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 02, 2021, 05:00:51 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 04:34:16 PM

Haas part 5 (if I got paid to be off everyday, would every character have more parts to their story?)

I assumed the high number of stories was because Haas is a fan favorite.

(https://media2.giphy.com/media/14wTbNneogwjba/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 08:59:41 PM

Tchau Din’Tadeu (Master Po, various)

A rage that matched the fires of the elemental plane to which he was attuned burned inside Tchau after the stones were broken.  The others fighting to defend it fought gently, pushing and blowing their opponents.  Tchau alone was ready to unleash everything in his arsenal to stop the catastrophe.  Had they acted sooner, perhaps what had been wrought may not have happened.  Had Russell, Luigi and Cloud laid waste to their foes instead of stunning, knocking down and dismissing the temporarily, maybe more stones would be standing.  Fools all!  Now back in Iott, Lyla had called a meeting of the best of her agents, Tchau among them.

The masters of the four elements, including Tchau and Lucian.  The governors of all the nations, including Marcus from Yellowia and Brokus from the Orcish Empire.  The Magus and Magister were here.  The headmasters of almost all the colleges.  The high clerics of Lakius, Smofarf, and Kallark.  Arnold Blockard, defender of the island and Esyan Pacrosa, leader of the Wizard Brigade.  Iscariot, master of the Usurpers, whose job now of knowing what the divine casters were capable of was even more imperative.  Mikael Targarten, theurge of Iott was the last to arrive.

"The enemies have struck a heavy blow against the arcane, against Smofarf, and against Iott.  It is a dark day.  They think they now have the advantage.  They think it is the beginning of the end for me, for us.  It is not so!" Tchau felt the fire and rage rising in him, he could see it in the face of everyone else in the room.

"The cost they paid for this victory is high.  So high that they will regret having paid it.  The attacks around the world, admirably executed with timing and precision, have wiped out thousands of their agents.  Not fodder, but talented agents, ones capable of causing a distraction that would warrant out response.  That leaves them hollowed out in the middle, with fodder and leadership left.  It will take time for them to replenish and recruit.  It is time they believe they will have because we are in turmoil.  They are mistaken." Of course they were, Lyla always had a plan.

"We knew this was their best, only option.  I put safeguards in place and worked to prevent them form claiming the items that would allow them to cleave the stones.  They were successful, yes, but they used every trick, scheme and tool they could produce to claim this victory.  They have nothing left.  No more blood oaths, no more coordinated worldwide attacks, no more allies to conjure from a portal or summon from afar.  They will continue to attack because they have no other choice, and they will learn that this nation is far from defenseless, it is a fully functional battle isle." The words tickled Tchau and he could not wait for what came next.

"You each have a part to play in what comes next.  When the try to invade, we will be ready.  When they try to swing support in the nations, the governors will hold.  We will out study them to learn what has been done to magic and what can now be accomplished.  Their leaders will now be fair game.  If they did not like the way Iott reigned before, now that they have forced our hand, they will despise what comes next."  Yes, yes, yes, thought Tchau, such a glorious woman of action.

The meeting ended and each person present was given their role.  Tchau's would not be different.  He would be one of four casters sent into the world to cleanse it of dangerous individuals who posed a threat to the arcane order.  Tchau excepted this role.  He would burn their scourge of evil from Habololy and allow Iott to put the world back on track.
 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 02, 2021, 09:12:51 PM

down to Vor'Ruk and Ash.  Nether of who were guessed to be last.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 09:18:09 PM

Tchau part 2

Iott prepared, and Tchau did along with the nation.  His mind was a bit of a blur through the recent events.  The travel from a foreign world and the breaking of magic seemed to confuse him a bit, but things came together.  He had learned of another form of magical power in their strange world, and now he would bring that to good use.  Between that and his direct access to the plane of fire, Tchau learned over the next few months that he access magic that had been lost to most casters.

He was given a list of enemies of Iott and he went to work.  For years, he tracked a purged them.  Agents of Chaos, mad tinkers, traitorous wizards.  No corner of the world was safe.  He convinced the jungle elves to not get involved, and they hid in the lands.  He warned giants and chosen of the frozen lands to stay in line.  The other masters of the elements did the same work, but none matched Tchau's skill.  Amansky, the Great Plateau, Icefia, and Yellowia; all felt his fires burn at one time or another.

The years rolled on and Iott began to restore the order that had been snatched away when the stones broke.  Tchau became known throughout the world.  His fame suited him.  He rarely had to burn anyone anymore, but the dawn of the second decade of the 800's, whispering his name was enough to end some plots against Iott.

The death of the Nipit, his air counterpart, gave Tchau pause.  To this point, the four, as well as the other agents of Iott were undefeated.  Lyla's skill at picking agents and selecting missions had been perfect.  The Nipit had long been assigned the task of finding the stone breakers.  Tchau had been there, he should known them.  But Cloud's cursed storm had made the whole battlefield a mess and Tchau could remember little else.  The death gave Tchau pause, and for the first time in a long time, he began to think about what was happening in Iott.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 09:27:07 PM

Haas part 6

Travelling south along the Tamin river, Haas and his retinue came to Messada and Castle Gemblade.  Unsure of what sort of welcome he would receive, he had intended to go right to the great arena-temple in Messada, but as the Castle came into sight, he found a large pavilion tent flying the royal standard and the banner of the Church of Stasis.  Waiting to greet him were Buld Mountainmagic, the Herald of the Church, and Michael, the Steward (High Cleric) of Habololy.  With them was a Vishtoo, armed with Horarian swords and wearing leather gye and kilt, with a reddish tint, who, based on Haas’ recent experience, appeared to be nearing old age.  The clerics greeted Haas warmly and promised to show him the temples in Messada.   The Vishtoo, bowing deeply said to him:

“Greetings Father Haas, I am Eda’Kera.  I am sorry I was not in the Badlands during your time there, but many of the Waywatchers have been called here to fight Sutyr and Dresta.  The High King hopes you will dine with him and other guests in the Castle.”

Haas spent two days as an honored guest in the Castle and was shown many works of art depicting the Graplores held in Icefia, the great competitors and even Stasis’ defeat as runner-up to Vrokikke the Doomed.  He was gratified to see the royal family continued to follow Stasis’ example and taught their sons wrestling.  After he departed, as promised, Michael and Eda’Kera, showed him all of the great temples of Messada.  Haas was pleased to find that Stasis’ paladin school, the military academy and the constables academy all had small shrines to Tyrogatore within their unarmed training gyms.  He was introduced to the chief instructors, from the constables a bespectacled man named Robert and from the legions an Intorian woman named Miaj.  The arena-temple of Tyrogatore was an impressive sight, one of only a few to host multiple Graplores.  Its high cleric, Cole Breakneck, an aging half-Orc, was moved to tears at Haas’ arrival and introduced him to his best students.

As he crisscrossed the country, Haas observed that the Kingdom was almost the opposite of what he had found in Yellowia and the Empire.  Despite Iott’s ascension and the plagues, he found a united nation, given purpose by the challenging times.  Still, there was a wariness and he quickly realized Michael and Eda’kera were not merely hosts but bodyguards.  Haas and his company bid Michael farewell after visiting Phiam and Colonye.  Eda’kera continued with them and Haas was aware that they were being shadowed by clerics and knights on the road.  As this annoyed Haas, Eda’kera explained to him:

“You have no power over the undead and the Empty Men seem to fear only holy and radiant energy.  It is unlikely that they could overcome you, but it would be a great humiliation for the Kingdom if there was an attempt on your life here.”

The company spent two days at Oneash, where Haas received a welcome intended to outdo any had previously experienced.  There were contests of strength and the high cleric of the city, Lorc, asked Haas to consecrate their temple that had recently been elevated from a shrine.  They continued on, stopping to rest at Eda’Kera’s ancestral estate, Battlestone.   Ingeniously concealed in a deep forest ravine, the buildings were carved into the cliffsides.   They spent one night there with Ukko, Eda’kera’s son, the head of the high noble family.  The journey to Cape Tolya took weeks and as they traveled, they saw more signs of plague and war.  More than once they came upon an abandoned village, or one cordoned off by the clerics of Stasis or Hemator.  They also encountered the legions, on the march north to fight.  Still, there was no sign of Iott and the journey was pleasant.

Cape Tolya was far different from the cities of the east.  The plagues had struck hard and repeatedly in the great city.  The subjects of the city made their way home before dark and knights and soldiers patrolled the streets with the constables.  Here the battle against Sutyr and Dresta was being fought every night.  Despite this, it was still more orderly than Undrile or Magenthia.  The company made its way through the great city to their destination, the ancient temple of their lord.  The second temple to host a Graplore off the Main Continent, the temple of Cape Tolya was a reminder of the time when the city had been the wealthiest in the world.   It was fitting that its master was also seemingly from another age: Aavass Vassenture, the ancient Vass Jaagenklar was the only known Master of the Art in the history of Icefia.   He had been high cleric of Cape Tolya for nearly 70 years.  He greeted Haas warmly and escorted him inside.  Awaiting them, filling the floor of the arena, was a host of warriors, constables, faithful of Tyrogatore and Guardians.  First to greet Haas, in hearty, but respectful, dwarven fashion, was Boram Firepeak, the Guardians’ chief unarmed combat instructor.  Easily the largest dwarf Haas had ever met, Boram had fought in the last three Graplores, 800 most likely his last.   Aavass had arranged a week-long tournament in Haas’ honor.  Fought day and night in Graplore style, it stopped only for prayer and feasting.  For the final matches Aavass and Haas were joined by Escalon and Adux Steelsun, the Equinal of the Guardians.  Adux had long wanted to meet Haas and thanked him for all he had done to thwart the plot against Stasis and Tyrogatore.  Their attendance was not only to pay respect to Haas; by the third day of the competition, it was clear that Boram’s disciple, Sundral the Battle Shard, a tall bugbear Feyali, would most likely prevail. As they watched, Haas heard of the struggles in the Protectorate, the horror of the Day of Dust, and that his old friend Roland had left the Kingdom to hunt those responsible.  At the end of the tournament, Sundral prevailed, and all assembled, faithful of Tyrogatore and not, saluted Haas.

Though there were only shrines to Tyrogatore in Fortress Whiteknight and Portet, Haas and company took their leave and journeyed west.  Here they found a nation truly at war.  One in three villages were abandoned, animal life was sparse, and as they drew near Portet a company of wraiths and wights set upon them.  Though none of the company was killed, it was eye opening to the danger of daily life in the west.  Once in the city, Haas was moved to find that before Roland had departed, he had founded an orphanage, watched over by his wife and servants of the goodly churches.  Haas preached for a week in the city, exhorting the residents to stay fit and disciplined against the forces that surrounded them.

From there, Haas begrudgingly boarded a ship and headed to Kathow-tio-Horari, where a meeting with the high cleric of Quan Yin would prove most interesting.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 11:25:45 PM

Haas part 7?!?

Kathow-tio-Horari long had a tradition of martial prowess, but it never had many shrines to Tyrogatore, nor any temples.  Haas wanted to change that.  His shipped docked at Red Island, at the town of Reb Beach, before starting the long walk up to the capital, Tas-tio-Horari.  His guide was a elf who had snake tattoos all over his body.  He wore a sleeveless fighting gye and was pleased to meet Haas.  Along with his retinue, they approached the cities of diamonds.  The wonder of the city was not lost on Haas, but he wasn't that interested in it.

He was taken not to the the center of the city, nor to any grand palace, but rather to a simple open air court garden.  He appreciated the time and effort that was put into maintaining the place, and he sensed that it was all done by mundanely.  In the garden was the high cleric of Quan Yin, Yukora.  She dismissed all of the others and for hours that went into days, and then weeks, the two discussed philosophy.  Haas would train and Yukora would prune.  The meals were attended by Haas retinue, who was being watched over by the elf, and Yukora children, nine of them.

At the end of the meeting, there was a feast and the queen made a brief appearance.  She thanked Haas for his visit and let him known that they would allow a temple to be constructed in the nation.  It must be dedicated to non lethal styles of combat and located outside of a city.  The queen would grant him the land and the cost of construction could be paid over a decade.  The queen left soon after and an advisor set about the task of finding a location for the new temple.  The process took Haas to several islands.  The off and on sailing was the worst part of the world tour he was on, and he looked forward to walking a long distance to forget this feeling.

It was 810 when Haas finally set sail away from Kathow-tio-Horari.  Although he wanted to continue the trip, he needed to stop in at Jaswap.  Magical communication was still at Iott's mercy and only the simplest messages dare be sent.  Making it back to Jaswap, Haas spent months being informed of what was happening in the world.  For Tyrogatore, things were fine.  Better than most other organizations, he guessed.  Two decades as high cleric, and things were quite well.

Haas awoke one day soon after returning to Jaswap to a commotion.  Clerics gathered at the temple.  They were irritated, he could tell that.  The steward came into the room and informed him that more than a dozen clerics were here to challenge him.  Haas was concerned until the elder clerics who predated him came to remind him that it was traditional for the high cleric to be challenged to maintain his rank.  Even to lose to Haas would be a great honor and there were many waiting.  Haas enjoyed the next several weeks, even if they were painful.  I the end, he was still high cleric.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 11:52:07 PM

Haas part 8

The next leg of Haas' journey should have taken him to Ekarude.  He wanted to visit Layraedia and this new Horarian tower which he had been told was home to practitioners of martial arts unknown elsewhere.  He wanted to visit Amatom, because few others did.  He wanted to see this islanders tribe that worshipped Tyrogatore and hope to meet the creator of Memtanjuan, Kahele Vaei, who had twice finished in the final four of the Graplore, whose star apprentice Tuhulo finished as the runner up a decade ago in the Graplore Haas hosted.

Being high cleric had many responsibilities.  The seeds he had planted for a decade were growing, but some needed watering, others had withered, some were being strangled by thorns.  He wrote letters, he spoke, he traveled to nearby lands.  The new king of Baenrl summoned Haas to make demands that Haas refused.  He wanted to crush the new king, who had slain the last king, the worshipper of Tyrgotore, in fair combat; but he now had to keep politics in mind.  This new king was beholden to Iott.  Such an act would bring about their wrath.  From what Haas new, Iott was again nearing the apex of its power.  The religion was coming to a place it had not been in many years.  He would not jeopardize that, yet.

Entreaties would arrive from Gneon to join the tinkers and his coalition.  Haas refused.  He would not trade tyrannical arcana for mad tinkering.  These problems were why Haas had always thought he did not want to be the leader.  Tyrogatore tests. 

Haas did not believe in luck, but in 814 something happened that caused him to reconsider.  With everything going the way of Iott.  With Haas having to consider joining forces with others against Lyla in a last attempt to stop their domination.  Kallark was destroyed.  Magic was again broken.  The reign of Iott seemed to finally be near an end.  Haas breathed a sigh of relief.  Now would be the time to fix things and bring calm.  Chaos would ensure as Iott's control began to wane.  A power vacuum would occur and warlords and maniacs would try to fill that void.  This was a delicate and dangerous time.

"Grand Father Haas, word has come, Valizar is marching his Lizardfolk host north into the forest.  The word is he wishes to slay Greenfellow."

Monk 2 / Cleric 19 / Blessed Fist 2

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 02, 2021, 11:54:02 PM

Just a reminder:

Quote from: whitesword on January 31, 2021, 10:40:43 PM

First- I’m sure Valizar will make a mess. Situationally and of some poor unfortunates.

(https://www.macgasm.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bill-hader-this.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 09:20:51 AM

Ash (Terrorshard, various)

For five years after the treaty that ended the Great Forest War, Ash remained in the forest.  Hunting, scouting, watching; he was unmatched in his set of skills.  Not because he was the best at hiding, or that he was the best archer (although he probably was), or that could spot a small bird on a branch one hundred yards away; but because he was willing to act without hesitation.  When a fey trickster went to freeze the house of a halfling elder, which could have caused his death; Ash did not play a game, he killed the fey.  When Fironi rebels sought to provoke an altercation with the wugs and try to restart hostilities; Ash did not look for their leader and collect intel, he dragged their corpses back to their town with a warning note pinned to them.  When gnolls raided a halfling town, he told Warlord Akrak what had happened and left a bag of gnolls paws.

With a purpose, and enjoying what he did, these years what good ones for Ash.  His notoriety preceded him, but he was not widely famous.  Those in the know knew who and what he was, but the general populace did not.  He was able to travel and enjoy life a bit in the forest.  Iott never cam knocking at his door, and he didn't care to go find them.  But when the call came to help break the circle, he did answer.  At some point Iott's tyranny would come for him.  Ash thought he would likely be dead before that, but owing Haas and not wanting to take the chance, he helped the effort.  What he saw in the battle was annoying.  Get the job done, don't pussyfoot around with half measures.  Many on his side, and thankfully the other, held back.  Had they not, all of the stones could have been broken.  How much easier would life have been would that have happened?

The stonebreakers won.  Ash waited to see what would happen next.  Some advocated patience, others yelled for war.  Ash was in the camp of the latter, but the form of that war was not what he would have suggested.  The marshaled their forces to march on Iott.  Valizar and his horde would join them.  Akrak and Garlaccal would not be far behind.  It might work, they might overcome Iott's defenses.  Ash decided to travel along with them.  Lagging behind, he watched.  It was a dull and slow trip.  When the battle starter, Ash watched from above at a great distance.  It did not go well.  The orcs were defeated.  Realizing in the defeat that Iott would not go quietly, Ash had two revelations.  First, he would retire and take Alwidst up on his offer.  Go to southern Yellowia and act as an advisor.  Second, he would bring Dedestroyt's justice to those who deserved it.  Camping the first night after the battle in Iott, he took out a piece of paper and wrote a note; the name of the first person on a kill list.

Ranger 6 / Huntsman 10 / Marksman 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on February 03, 2021, 09:38:39 AM

(https://i.makeagif.com/media/3-15-2016/bi3Ha4.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 10:24:33 AM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:05:37 AM

Malchia & Valdis

Disoriented by the trip, Valdis and Malchia staggered around for moments.  Whatever magic had moved them had also caused a great deal of stress.  For Valdis, master of movement, it was a strange feeling, but he focused and came out of it faster than his foe.  He only need to be faster by a moments.  He slammed the sword into the Nipits head, knocking him back.  He raised his sword to finish the task, but Lewis alerted him to he paused.  Looking around, Valdis realized he had no idea where they were, floating in darkness.  He may need to communicate with his foe before killing him.

Another several quick strikes, probably more than were needed, knocked out the Nipit.  Thankfully, the Guardian didn't explode or fall.  Looking around, Valdis went gently to the edge and looked down.  Water, glorious water.  He had feared only air.  He would survive the fall, but the Guardian may not.  Was there land nearby?  Yes, he could see lights in the distance.  Now to get there.  First, he stripped the Nipit of anything dangerous.  He had Lewis make sure the giant bat was indeed dead and scorched its body will all manner of things he found to make sure the infernal beast would not return.  Fire, acid, electricity, holy water, piss.  In the armory, he grabbed the shackles that would prevent the Nipit from doing anything magical.

Realizing his exhaustion, he rested, leaving Lewis to watch and setting the defenses of the Guardian to protect them.  The shackled Nipit went into the brig.  The lowered the anchor and hoped for the best overnight.  It was not a peaceful sleep.  Throwing food to the Nipit, Valdis asked him questions which were not answered.  Well enough, time would soon come when he would have all the answers he needed.  Based on Lewis' information and Valdis limited knowledge of the stars and charts, he was still able to determine that they were outside of the city of Undrile.  How and why he did not know.  He needed to contact the crew, Nathan, Rin, someone.  If only this were the days of old, when magic worked better.  The ship had ways of communicating that he would have been able to use.

Undrile was a big enough city, someone there would be able to help him, even if for a fee.  Leaving Lewis to watch the ship and prisoner, Valdis went ashore.  It took him most of the day, Undrile was a chaotic city.  But he found a cleric and arranged to have the spell sent.  He would have preferred a different deity, Lakius or Tyrogaotre, but Lavash'Ki would have to do.  He could not defend the ship alone, and the Nipit might have allies looking for him.  Valdis made it back to the Guardian and waiting.

On watch, securely placed, with Lewis lurking, he just needed to survive a few hours at most, or so he hoped.  One day turned into three.  There was plenty of food.  Numerous other ships had stopped by and asked if they could 'help'.  One time Valdis had to fight off a boarding party.  It was annoying, but even the dozen pirates were no match for him.  A mist rolled in and Valdis grew suspicious.  A small boat pulled up and hailed him.  Taking no chances, Valdis raised his defenses.  They talked for minutes, and Valdis was confident the men in the boat were no threat.  They offered to bring out food, and keep him company for a small fee.  Valdis declined and watched them go.  Sure they were gone and no other boats were near, he turned to check on the Nipit.  A moment later, Valdis was dead on the deck.

Free from his Shackles, thanking his rescuer, Malchia took no time to mourn.  He set about the task of getting the ship to the collector.  Minutes later, in a flash, it was gone.  The Collector be praised, the ship would be renamed Malchia's Bounty, Ark of Collection.  It would sail the world as a symbol of the Collector's magnificence.  From now on, Malchia would be known as the greatest Herald of the Collector.  He would be given the task of Collection that so many had failed before but that he could succeed at, the assembly of the daggers of Dedestroyt.

Nathan arrived just too late.  No one knew where Rin was. The ship was gone.  Valdis body was recovered and a ceremony was held when the surviving crew could attend.  They commissioned a new ship and set a new course.  Finding the Guardian of the Tides.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:06:27 AM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 03, 2021, 11:18:27 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:05:37 AM

Malchia & Valdis

For Valdis, master of movement, it was a strange feeling, but he focused and came out of it faster than his foe.  He only need to be faster by a moments.  He slammed the sword into the Nipits head, knocking him back.  He raised his sword to finish the task, but Lewis alerted him to he paused.  Looking around, Valdis realized he had no idea where they were, floating in darkness.  He may need to communicate with his foe before killing him.

I think Valdis would have killed him when he had the chance and not taken him prisoner.  Such an experienced sailor would know better.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 03, 2021, 11:24:32 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:06:27 AM

Ash's List:
Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Thanks Ash...Malchia owes you one.  I'll talk to the big guy about getting you an epic item that'll still work in this messed up broken magic world. 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:34:29 AM

The Company of Long Odds, Part 2 - broaching Thom

"I know magic, I should make the list." - Montaron

"Magic got us into this mess, we don't need any more if it!" - Reik

"Zo many things, all magical, all useful, how many we buy?" - Razk

"Why can't we just go to the guardians to get them?" - Dovin

"Iott is watching, but Thom's shop is hidden from their view, at least, that's what I was told." - Claude

"And who told you that?" - Acyll

"Same person that tells him everything, Tfop." - Daane

"Good to know the deities are on our side, this should be no problem." - Rubius

"And these broaches you mention, they will make sure if we die, we don't remain trapped on the plane?" - Keldan

"Yes, and from experience, I can tell you they work." - Ari

"I am not sure whether to like that you have experience and know this or not." - Grant

Along with many other items of value and use, the group was able to purchase the broaches they needed (guardian ones or knock offs) for their journey.  Thom, to his credit, did not pry nor reveal what he suspected they were up to, which only meant that in some way, they quest was to his advantage.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 03, 2021, 11:35:16 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:05:37 AM

Nathan arrived just too late.  No one knew where Rin was. The ship was gone.  Valdis body was recovered and a ceremony was held when the surviving crew could attend.  They commissioned a new ship and set a new course.  Finding the Guardian of the Tides.

When word reaches Chase about this incident, he renames his ship "Gaurdian's Pride" in honor of the Gaurdian of the Tides.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:36:49 AM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:56:20 AM

Ash part 2

After the failed crusade, Ash went to southern Yellowia to take up the role on King Alwidst's royal staff.  As trusted advisory, master of the hunt, and several other titles, Ash was allowed free reign of the land.  He trained archers and hunters, he picked out a home for himself and was given choice of wives to take.  Life was good.

Alwidst was a ally of Gneon, and his men had taken part in the distraction during the Day Magic Broke.  At first, this was not an issue, as Iott ignored the smaller kingdom.  Ash was given the task of making sure the neighboring lands new where the Kingdom of Southern Yellowia stood.  He visited the jungles, Northern Yellowia, the hill giant and barbarian tribes and several other places with the king, and then without.

When Iott began to reclaim its power, problems began to arise for the kingdom.  Iott never took to the field of battle in mass if it could be avoided.  Ash admired their tactics, the same he would use.  A village would have its ability to sustain itself removed.  A caster would be demagicked.  A noble would be captured.  Several times, Ash feared for himself, but chance kept him off of Iott's list and for at least the moment, Ash did not target Iottian's on his list.   

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:58:04 AM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 03, 2021, 02:47:55 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 09:20:51 AM

Ash (Terrorshard, various)
Ranger 6 / Huntsman 10 / Marksman 10

Ash is one...
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rHl2CykbeuE/Vv0HSAPF1VI/AAAAAAAAAYw/SMSVzqYY1JU1CQ0NBeLMEi2qwHRvCbdsA/s320/pulpfiction_wallet.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Terrorshard on February 03, 2021, 03:22:19 PM

I'm liking this story arc for Ash I must say

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 09:23:49 PM

Tchau part 3

Such a force was Tchau now, that he needed no one else's authority of approval to act on mission's in Iott's interest.  He was the greatest of the elementalists.  He was the most feared known combatant Iott had.  Nearly by his hand alone the the Gnarland been forced to accept some Iottian dictates.  He knocked out an entire squadron of gnomish devices on a suicide run into Iott.  This and more he accomplished.

His power allowed freedom and the freedom lead him to conclusions that did not sit well with the elf.  Here and there, slowly, Iott was moving towards a more cruel disposition.  Others did not see it, Lyla's spell was so encompassing that they could be forgiven.  Some could not see it, for the vast majority of Iottian citizens did not wander off the beaten path in their idyllic nation.  Tchau set about the task of finding where this infection came from, which power was behind this subtle cruelty.

As he researched more, his missions outside the nation diminished.  In truth, there were fewer needed.  By 813, Iott's power was tremendous.  Only pockets of organized resistance remained; the Kingdom of Icefia, Nomagrok, and Gneon's plateaus.  Plans were in place to finish those pockets off, and then all that remained would by the wild, undisciplined lands that required only time  to control, they would offer no threat to Iott.  In two years, the pockets would be under Iott's control.  In five, only tribal lands would be left.  In ten years, the world would be under an arcane order that would last a thousand years.

Tchau learned the course of the danger just before a mission.  After traveling to the plane of fire, where he would go regularly to recharge and relax, he heard stories from the fire creatures of Sutyr and his strength on Habololy.  The mortals and their proxy, meaning Habololians and Kallark, were the ones being used.  Sutyr's power when wielded from his home plane was like nothing the primes knew.  His patience was endless, and over time, he would be the tyrant of all Habololy.  Back in Iott, Tchau told no one of what he learned.  He needed to find who was trustworthy and act.

First, he needed to do something equally important.  As luck would have it, it would also give him the chance to meet with someone who may be trustworthy.  In far off Ekarude, the last enclave of Chaos was entrenched.  There, he would ally with Dovin of the guardian temple and the Iottian plane watcher Kay.  The mission was a success, Chaos was burned away from Habololy forever.  In this, Tchau knew the Iott still had great value despite the current plot.  The effect must be careful to extract Sutyr but maintain the nation.

In Ekarude, Tchau confided in Kay.  The two were in agreement, but too great caution in moving forward.  Dovin would be the perfect ally in this effect.  But by the time Tchau reached out, he was no where to be found.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 09:34:06 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 10:07:09 PM

Vor’Ruk Cea’Zer Oc’Tavious (Zunder, varous)

After the treaty to end the Great Forest War, Vor'Ruk was unsure of what to do.  The orcish legion's mission was now over in the forest.  They had accomplished their mission of preventing the wugs and their allies from overtaking the forest.  But now, where do they go?  Firk Tuskenhammer 3rd, he and the other officers debated.  They had some time, as per the treaty to leave the field.  Delaying would jeopardize the peace.  It was decided that the army would head back to the empire and stop at the once abandoned positions east of the Boiled Forest.  As many soldiers as the treaty allowed would remain at outposts on the border between Scalehome and the Southern Coalition.  Vor'Ruk warned all that he left at the outposts, "When victory looks inevitable, look in the shadows for assassins."

Moving a legion takes time and the road back through the Boiled Forest was no easy, even if the treaty allowed them safe passage through it.  A year after the treaty had been signed, the legion was secure in its positions on the western front.  Now Vor'Ruk would return to the empire and meet with the Emporer.  The last meeting had not gone well and he could only hope that the success of the mission would ease the anger.  Again, he left the soldiers to head east.  This time, going to each Centuris, he pointed to the forest, noted a Wug, and said, "Where there is one Kobold, there a many, many more Kobolds"

Stopping in Lynkeed, which for now was an independent city, Vor'Ruk heard word of Iott.  Reaching the empire proper, word was that the Marshall of Iott had visited the emperor.  It is unlikely that meeting went well.  The emperor had never impressed Vor'Ruk, which was a terrible thought to have, but truth was truth.  He was not an orc of action, he was not forward thinking, but he was stubborn.  When he reached the capital, word came that the empire had reached an agreement with Iott.  It seemed the meeting had gone so well, that Vor'Ruk and his legion were absolved of any punishment.  The emperor had no need to meet with him.  Having traveled all that way, at the gates of the palace, Vor'Ruk turned to Rompei, "Sometimes it’s the most passive Orzarvu which is the hardest to break...but sometimes not."

When he arrived back with the legion, he told them of the emperor's new allies.  He asked if any of the legion would like to return to the empire.  The only ones that said yes did so because they had family.  Firk allowed them to leave with no ill will.  Over the next few years, the 3rd legion became the headquarters of the empire in exile, gaining the allegiance of many from afar, especially among the Tuskenhammers.

Three times, champions of the emperor came to challenge Vor'Ruk, Larton, and Firk.  Thankfully, the emperor's champion did not come, for he would have surely beaten them.  The others failed.  The Octous Legion, famed for their counterspellers and combating magic users, joined Vor'Ruk in 795.  He worried that that civil war was near.  Then a visit gave him hope, in the unlikely form of a military dressed gnome named Gneon.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 10:08:11 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

vigilantes that helped kill Wilham

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 03, 2021, 10:09:07 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 09:34:06 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

The Kingtaker!!?! So much for another theory.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 03, 2021, 10:57:27 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 10:07:09 PM

Vor’Ruk Cea’Zer Oc’Tavious (Zunder, varous)


Three times, champions of the emperor came to challenge Vor'Ruk, Larton, and Firk.  Thankfully, the emperor's champion did not come, for he would have surely beaten them.

Who could this guy be!?! “Surely have beaten” Vor’Ruk!??!  Yikes!!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 10:57:37 PM

The Company of Long Odds part 3 - only a hop, skip, and song away

"Ack, this is the worst place ever.  A wizard in a sweating jungle!" - Reik

"Take care, he is one of the most powerful ones you will likely ever meet." - Acyll

"This place smells marvelous.  I can't wait to eat." - Rubius

"Hope iz cooking some meat." - Razk

"I am surprised they let us in, Amansky is not fond of strangers." - Grant

"Some of us are not strangers." - Keldan

"Last time I was hear, I learned to play the fiddle." - Daane

"Oh dear Smofarf, please don't break out a fiddle." - Montaron

"I would feel a lot better about his if he were joining us." - Dovin

"We seem to be lacking in arcane power, and I think it will be working typically where we are going." - Ari

"We'll see, eleven seems a lucky number.  But if he gets us there, that kinda counts him as part of the company, right?" - Claude

A knock on the door was soon answered by a smiling Nipit.  Months earlier, Claude had visited him as asked if he could work on making a gate to the outer planes.  It seemed doable and it was for a good cause.  Although it was strenuous, using the power of song, Luigi could manage to cast spells of power that few others in these times could muster.

He welcomed them all in and made sure the place was as concealed as possible.  Being in Amansky made that work easier.  Now, he had to prepare to get them all to Archeron.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:01:19 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

vigilantes that helped kill Wilham

Fal Swift

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:32:36 PM

Vor'Ruk part 2

Gneon's plan was the best Vor'Ruk could think of, distraction and attack the heart of wizard's power.  A date and time were set.  Vor'Ruk alone knew the plan until right before.  He gave Firk the orders just before he left to be part of the main assault on the stones.  The Octous legion, under the guise of them leaving for home and rejoining the empire, would strike out at Iott's agents and bases throughout the empire, including the governor himself.  He reminded them each before they let, "Get Tough, Get Physical, Get Fast"

The distractions began and Gneon's planned, somewhat to Vor'Ruk's surprise, worked.  Iott was caught up in hundreds of attacks around the world.  They couldn't send overwhelming force to protect the circle, what they did send only delayed the inevitable.  Although he felt strange and missed seconds of the fight, Vor'Ruk clung to the mighty City Cleaver and split many stones in half until the sky broke and magic faltered.  He was forced to hand over the weapon, but then raced back to the legion to celebrate the victory and plan for the next leg of the mission.

For a year, he planned the crusade with Firk and now more officers that had joined their ranks from the empire.  Vor'Ruk was given allies by Gneon and he colluded on the plan.  The orcish legions would be the tip of the spear that would pierce the side of the Iottian island.  Valizar and his host of lizardfolk would take the flank.  Akrak and the gnolls would follow up behind.  Shelleshe pirates would cut off the sea.  Finally, Gneon's tinkers would assault from the sky.  The plan required the orcs get across the water, but Gneon had an answer for that.  The wizards cloud, capable of casting great spells even now, had proven he could part the sea for the orcs.

And so the march south began.  The crusade against Iott was what it became known as.  It would be the most glorious march since Shir Cannus Nerad Coustus went to the Dedestroytian Penninsula.  Vor'Ruk wished he had City Cleaver again.  Wielding it once was tantalizing.  Such power.  It took a long time, but little interfered with the army.  They had fewer counterspellers than he would have liked, as many died in the distracting attacks, but it would not matter.  Victory would be theirs.  No cost was too high for ending Iott's infection of the empire.

Reaching the sea, Cloud proved his worth.  It parted and the legion rushed forward.  Cavalry led the way.  Banners of anti magic flew.  Counterspellers were at the ready.  Clerics had blessed them with protections.  Reaching the land on the other side, Vor'Ruk breathed a sigh of relief.  He called out "Today we will not die for the Empire, we will make them die for theirs!"

The battle was tragic.  Lead by Esyan Pavrosa, the Iott's defended their isle with incredible skill.  Their most powerful magics were not available to them, but it seemed to matter little.  Endless swarms of summoned creatures delayed them.  Spells like gnats and mosquitos pricked them.  The legion was drawn farther into the island, gaining ground and seemingly always almost to the city they needed to reach.  Vor'Ruk's vanguard alone broke through the lines, trampling the only squadron of spellcasters that died that day.  The warriors that formed the next line of defense fled immediately at the sight of the orcish cavalry.  Vor'Ruk saw the Iottian commander in front of him and the illusions that confused the legion split before him.  Here was the opening.

Esyan was as expert a spellcasting marksman as lived.  First the mount fell, Vor'Ruk picked up his sword and charged on.  Spells he thought could not effect him did.  Creatures that he assumed were summoned must not have been and grabbed at him.  One swing was all he needed, but he did not get it.  A green ray struck Vor'Ruk in the chest, and he thought: "Underestimation of an Ogre is Hazardous to your health."

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 03, 2021, 11:33:21 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

vigilantes that helped kill Wilham

Fal Swift

Esyan Pavrosa

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 04, 2021, 12:49:54 PM

Vor'Ruk part 3

Awaking in a different position than when he fell asleep was disconcerting.  Not only was he standing, he had a mighty sword in his hand, the temperature was different, he was surrounded by grass and forest, there were no orcs or summoned creatures nearby.  There were, however, several Iottians and a number of large stone structures that he recognized.

The Iottians looked surprised.  They called out to each other and stumbled away.  The first words he heard were incomprehensible as he gained his senses.  Then, he started to pick up pieces of hurried statements.  "That's not possible...don't have anything prepared for this...send the Magister."  The wizards scattered, headed for the trees.  Vor'Ruk thought at first to chase them.  He was alone, but otherwise this seemed very familiar.  Didn't he have a mission to fulfill, a task to complete?  What was repeating in his head?

Looking in his hands, he recognized City Cleaver.  Either this was real, fantastic dream, or heaven.  In any case, he smiled and charged the first stone.  Down came Illusion.  Laughing as only an orc could, Vor'Ruk rushed from stone to stone.  Nothing stood in his way.  Necromancy fell, Evocation, there were more standing than he remembered when he was last here, but now there's be none!

Before he got to the last one, spells of every type crashed into him.  He fought to reach the last one.  What if they all fell?  What a grand sight that would be!  Sword held overhead, he called out for glory and strength, but a fire gripped his arm and stayed his swing.  He looked around to see a fire wreathed elf shaking his head.  This end seemed much more painful than the last one, but Vor'Ruk laughed happily as he crumbled from the onslaught.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 04, 2021, 12:57:45 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

vigilantes that helped kill Wilham

Fal Swift

Esyan Pavrosa

so-called Iottian governor of Southern Yellowia putz

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 04, 2021, 11:04:48 PM

Vor'Ruk part 4

It felt like the second time, but he would have forgiven himself if it turned out to having been the third or forth time.  The trees were there again, but the sky was dark.  The area was littered with stones, as only three were standing.  One Iottian solider stood guard in the center of where the circle would have been.  He looked confused for a moment, but not nearly as shocked as the last Iottians that were here.  He leveled his staff and called out a warning, which echoed like a siren instead of a common shout.

Again, Vor'Ruk held City Cleaver in his hands.  Again, he charged one of the stones to destroy it.  The soldier moved swiftly and to Vor'Ruk's surprise tripped him up before reaching the stones.  He had not suspected a skilled attack from the soldier, which had not only tripped him, but frozen his leg.  No matter, it stalled him only a moment and that would not work again.  Down came one of the three.  Finish the task, complete the mission.  Vor'Ruk was close.

Iottians poured out from tents and unleashed spells at him.  Barrages of missiles, spells to hold him, spell to blind him, spells to confuse him.  He was hurt, he was slowed, but he was not finished.  He fell into the next stone and began to chop away.  Strength being drained from his arms as he did.  The second of the three fell.  One left.  An Iottian got too close and Vor'Ruk went into a whirl of action, cleaving through three in a routine that made him proud.

A snap shot pain through his whole body, as he knee was shattered.  The staff wielding soldier.    Seeing the swarm near, Vor'Ruk pushed past the soldier, through his pain and neared the stone.  Again, on the verge of victory, he was stopped.  The staff cracked his head, bolts of electricity burnt through him.  As he fell, he thought perhaps this was some form of torment, and perhaps hoped he would not appear here again.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 04, 2021, 11:07:07 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

vigilantes that helped kill Wilham

Fal Swift

Esyan Pavrosa

so-called Iottian governor of Southern Yellowia putz

doppelganger assassin that killed Alwidst's consort

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 04, 2021, 11:28:21 PM

Vor'Ruk part 5

Things became confusing and blurred in Vor'Ruk's mind.  He did not know how many times he had been back to the circle, he didn't think more than a dozen, but who knew.  Death had come in many ways, and it seemed as if the Iottians were crossing methods off their list.  Fire, lighting, disintegration.  This time was different.  There was only one stone standing.  It must be a trick.  But what this time?

They had put walls of force up to protect the stones, but City Cleaver dismissed them.  They had tried to send him to another plane.  Thankfully that failed.  There were a variety of figures here this time, Iottians, including a glorious woman, Lyla.  Better than the stones!  By The Oldest and Greatest Orcs unending patience, she was here!  He charged towards her and she smiled with cheer and admiration.

An elf stepped in his way.  He had a sword that rivaled City Cleaver.  He had the symbol of Dedestroyt.  Vor'Ruk hesitated.  He did not know the names of many high clerics, but this one all knew, Vistrani Fell.  This would be an epic end.  There was no coming back from this death, one Vor'Ruk knew was here.  The Stalkers always won battles against those that had returned.  Vor'Ruk was impressive, but no deity.  Swords rang out and Vor'Ruk's only wish in his last moments was that the empire would know of this battle and tells stories of his glory.




Against all reason, it happened again.  This time, one stone was there.  No one was working on their repair.  There was a group of Iottians.  Not instantly ready, but waiting for him.  Spells flared to slow him just enough.  They knew the drill, they knew the plan, Vor'Ruk stood no chance.  Held, bound, stunned, staggered, an Iottian marked desert elf with golden eyes stood before him.  He said words in his language that Vor'Ruk did not understand.

They dragged him out of the circle and for the first time in an unknown about of years, he saw something beyond the circle.  It was nice to see.  A portal opened up below Vor'Ruk, which he knew had happened before, but this time, he fell through.  All tied up, in the dark, he laid there for hours and felt hungry for the first time in an orc's life.  It was an odd feeling, to be fully alive.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 04, 2021, 11:29:32 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

vigilantes that helped kill Wilham

Fal Swift

Esyan Pavrosa

so-called Iottian governor of Southern Yellowia putz

doppelganger assassin that killed Alwidst's consort

Vowgist Sharpe

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 05, 2021, 10:06:00 AM

We have reached the point where, I think, everything that happens in story of meaning is post the defeated of Kallark.  Because there are so many threads going, I may be off, but I think I've got it right.  So for the next post, please head over to the Company of the Long Odds thread.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 05, 2021, 10:13:15 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 05, 2021, 10:06:00 AM

We have reached the point where, I think, everything that happens in story of meaning is post the defeated of Kallark.  Because there are so many threads going, I may be off, but I think I've got it right.  So for the next post, please head over to the Company of the Long Odds thread.

Note that the stories will continue, I just thought this was the appropriate time to make an announcement.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 05, 2021, 11:54:03 AM

Ash part 3

For years, Ash was the most valuable member of Alwidst's security staff as the Kingdom of Southern Yellowia secured its place.  As an enemy of Iott, the king and the new nation were often under duress.  Only the king's refusal to openly join the organized opposition lead by Gneon allowed the kingdom to survive at all.  That, and Ash's efforts.

Yellowian agents, Jungle elf agents, Iottian agents, all came aiming for the king.  Even tinker assassins, hoping to put a friendlier monarch in place cam for Alwidst.  Ash dealt with them all.  He was not perfect, members of the royal family and other of the king's staff and guards were killed in the attempts.  Most tragically, his beloved mount Predator was killed as Ash chased off Yellowian assassins. 

There were internal struggles as well.  Political positioning meant that some in the kingdom wanted Ash removed.  Young bucks scoffed at his age at thought him too old to be competent.  They did not pay with their lives, but they forever carried the mark of embarrassment Ash left them.

By 815, the Kingdom of Southern Yellowia was recognized by several other nations.  Ash lived with some satisfaction and comfort.  A call rang out, he was needed.  The horn that sounded meant Iottian attack.  Having experienced enough of these, Ash prayed to Dedestroyt briefly, knowing this could be the last time he went to kill.

He arrived in king's court and paused.  Ash cared little for the reputation of others, he had killed the best in the world, those with names that preceded them for decades.  Their reputations informed his actions, and the reputation of the burning elf in front of him informed him that if he tried to kill it, gaining a trophy that would match any other ear in his collection, things would likely not go his way.  The others guards backed off, as everyone hear either knew or was quickly told who this was.

"I hate you all.  But I have come to talk to only one of you.  Don't give me trouble, I could have burned the whole town down and raised the one I want to talk to instead of appearing and asking."

Ash did not aspect the answer to next question, when the Master of the Court asked, "Who is it you need to speak with?" 

"The one called Ash."

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 05, 2021, 11:54:53 AM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

vigilantes that helped kill Wilham

Fal Swift

Esyan Pavrosa

so-called Iottian governor of Southern Yellowia putz

doppelganger assassin that killed Alwidst's consort

Vowgist Sharpe

Henry Forreshot

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 05, 2021, 11:55:31 AM

Fire and Ash

It was a tense few moments as the fiery elf and Ash stared at each other.  Everyone else who was within fifty feet cleared the area.  A breeze blew across the courtyard and it was warm instead of the cool one would expect.

"I came to give you something.  Information and a plan."

Ash said nothing and continued to glare, waiting for a reason to take a shot.

"Two old orcish companions of yours are prisoners on another plane.  Forces of Iott have keep them there for years because they are too dangerous, even in death."

Ash did not move.

"As proof, I offer you some of their belongings that I hope you recognize."  The elf produced items from a magical bag and tossed them between the two of them.  Ash whistled and his wolf retrieved the items and brought them to Ash, before retreating again out of sight.  Looking them over, he confirmed that some belonged to Vor'Ruk.  Ash never carried anything that could not easily be recreated except his sword, and that wasn't here.

"I also offer incentive even if you don't believe me.  They are held by the Governor of Yellowia.  I will give you his routine and get you through security.  If nothing else, you get to kill him."  He tossed a book on the ground.  "Go through it, take a week to confirm what is in there.  I will return and have you answer."

The elf erupted in flame and was gone.  As collected the book and for the next week went through it, calling upon the scholars and spies in Alwidst's employ to confirm what was in there.  Confident that is was accurate, Ash came to the conclusion that this was worth the risk.  The elf was right, if he wanted them dead, he likely would have done it there with no warning.

Arriving in the same way, the elf returned as promised.  "What do you say?"

"I'll do it."  A few days later, Ash was in Northern Yellowia.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 06, 2021, 01:40:20 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

vigilantes that helped kill Wilham

Fal Swift

Esyan Pavrosa

so-called Iottian governor of Southern Yellowia putz

doppelganger assassin that killed Alwidst's consort

Vowgist Sharpe

Henry Forreshot

Governor of Yellowia

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 06, 2021, 02:21:30 PM

Fire and Ash part 2

With the detailed instructions, infiltrating the governor's base was easy.  With knowledge of what protections were in place, killing him was a pleasure.  Taking everything off the body was a bit of a task, he was loaded with more items that Ash thought possible.  Giving an item of power from the body to his hawk, one to his wolf, and one to a badger, they split up.  Ash had the key to the prison.

The escape went well.  The badger was caught, but it had served its purpose.  Miles away, Ash met with the elf at the pre-determined location.  "Skilled as advertised, well done.  Don't' ruin it be attacking, there is more to do and tell."  Ash watched the area as the elf used the key.  Minutes later, there was a thump as if things hit the ground.  Turning, Ash saw seven orcs.  The were unharmed it seemed.  Among them were Ajax and Vor'Ruk.

After taking a few minutes to orient themselves, the elf spoke as Ash watched the area.

"My name is Tchau, some of you know me, but I promise I mean you no harm now.  You have been trapped for years and I have helped have you freed.  Let me be brief and to the point.  Kallark has been destroyed, the world is rising up against Iottian rule again.  The battle will be long a terrible and no one will win.  But we have a chance the effect that."  He directed he stare and Ajax and Vor'Ruk.

"Without Kallark as a buffer, Sutyr will now have more direct influence over Iott.  Kallark's clerics and faithful are already moving to worship him.  Iott's anger at Kallark's defeat will dwarf their anger at the breaking of magic, and that anger will take the form of a worse form of warfare.  I know this because I have traveled to the Plane of Fire, where Sutyr is well known.  Because I have consulted Russell and Kay, two of the most knowledgeable wizards I know about these matters."

Most of the orcs looked as if this was all above their station, but Ajax and one other did not.  They resigned to listen more as the elf spoke quickly.

"The Guardians have spent years warning of the threat of Sutyr and at great cost to them, they have helped to burn out his cult in many places.  But he needs to be defeated in Baenrl, at his heart, to be banished from Habololy.  I can't do it, for obvious reasons, my powers don't do much to his faithful.  But several of you can."

"Lukius, as high cleric of the Oldest Orc, you can pray for the blessing that will allow this to happen.  Ajax, as the most powerful agent of Stasis, you possess a power almost no one else has right now, the power to Gate.  You two must join the going army in Baenrl and help defeat Sutyr."

Turning to Vor'Ruk, the elf spoke again, "You have a different role.  Hopefully you have some sense of this, but you are already dead.  You had been dying over and over before Iott trapped you.  I know why, and so does Iott.  On the Day Magic was Broken, you were subject to powerspell spells, which when cast in the circle when the weave was intact, echo again and again.  Each time you came back, the spells brought you and what you needed to complete the spell, the weapon City Cleaver.  They trapped you to stop you from dying and doing it again."

He sighed, "I say this with no pleasure.  To defeat Iott, to make sure Sutyr is banished, you have to die one more time."

Ash looked at Ajax, and then Vor'Ruk.  With a slight smile, he said, "You're welcome?"

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 06, 2021, 09:24:29 PM

Haas and Valizar

The march north through the forest was easy for Valizar and his lizardfolk host.  No one in what was once the southern coalition have either the ability or inclination to stop him.  He ordered there to be no pillaging or looting.  He ordered they leave townfolks and villages alone until that got to Scalehome.  Every lizardfolk within the sound of his roar obeyed.  Unfortunately, his roar did not extend to the entire horde.

They reached the former border between the two parts of the forest, which was the great road that had long ago been constructed by the orcs.  Valizar was glad that they had gone that far with no resistance, and he commanded they rest.  It was then that Haas arrived.  A mighty call went out first from Valizar and then echoed by the lizardfolk.  It had been many years since Valizar had seen Haas.  After he roared, he bowed.

"Valizar, it is good to see you.  What is the meaning of this?"

"We go to defeat Greenfellow, defeat Scalehome, glory to Tyrogatore!"

"You have to stop.  This will bring great pain to many that do not deserve it.  Scalehome might be defeated, but Greenfellow will not and his revenge will be dire to you and your people, and Tyrogatore."

What madness was this.  Was this really Haas?  Valizar had heard of a great trickster in the forest.  Fey.  A defense of scalehome.  Trying to imitate the great and powerful Haas was an insult too great.  Valizar knew how to find the truth.

"If you are Haas, then I challenge you for High Cleric.  If you win, command me.  If you lose, I will be high cleric!"  If this wasn't Haas, then Valizar wouldn't be high cleric, and Haas would learn and come to meet Valizar in Scalehome to complete the victory.  If it was Haas, Valizar would lose, and he would turn around.

"Wha..no..Vali..fine" Haas prepared for a fight.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 06, 2021, 10:37:00 PM

Popcorn time

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 06, 2021, 10:53:57 PM

Knot (Zunder, various)

The life of the former slave bugbear was a simple one: survive and kill enemies.  For twenty years that had been his way.  From Borkondof to Yellowia, the Great Forest and Barnstenagor, through Intoria; he made his way.  Enemies and allies were never hard to find.  The faiths of Gnarion, Tfop, Tommimao and others all had some appeal and didn't turn away his help against slavers and tyrants.

When Iott, the greatest purveyor of magic and would be Tyrants came to power, Knot had yet another mission he relishes taking.  When Sutyr left the Counsil and joined the Axis of Tyranny (Knot didn't create the phrase, but used it after hearing his ally Raygen use it), Knot couldn't have been happier.  Here, grouped together, were a collection of being he hated with a passion.  Better yet, those he might call allies gave him free reign to hunt and kill them.

Since he eschewed magic (a term he had heard clerics of Drunnbar use), the changes that he was told occurred meant little to him.  His simple ways were undetectable.  His methods deadly.  Traveling the paths from north to south between Palumbton and Hertoplowis, Knot delighted in keeping the corridor free of slaves.  Or a number of occasions, he teamed with the Knight of the Forest Road to stop Iottian plans or hunt down a Flame Master in the making.

When the plagues came, Knot seemed impervious to their grasp.  He continued to be the perfect weapon for the times.  Such was his infamy, Iott sent the Governor of Baenrl, the fiery assassin, to kill him.  Knot evaded him.  The Governor of the Shelleshe, an assassin warlock and he dueled and Knot escaped.  As the gnolls swarmed under cover of the plagues, Knot fought them.

During this time, he found a new faith, one that appealed to him.  While traveling into Barnstenagor to rest, he overheard a preacher in a town.  At first Knot did not understand, but the words started to become clear.  He snuck near to look and see.  A burly bearded dwarf, scarred heavily was talking from the top of a wagon.  He decried magic and the arcane and spoke of the rage that builds in him when Iott enslaves.  Thanks to his lord Alarault, Render of Magic, he is empowered by this rage to overcome and resist magic.  This speech intrigued Knot and he wanted to hear more.  He spent weeks traveling with the dwarf and learning of this new deity.  Asking Dedestroyt to forgive his conversion, he came himself to the teachings of this raging anti-arcanist.

Now, Knot was ever better suited to face down Iott and its wizards.  For several years, he traveled and smashed.  Finally, with Kallark defeated, Iott in retreat, Knot is his glory and at the height of his power, he arrived at Sutyr's last stand, the Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar...

Berserker 4 / Ranger 8 / Render of Magic 6

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 06, 2021, 10:54:58 PM

Note that as I review earlier posts, any that had significant modifications / revisions will be re-posted so they are noted by all.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 06, 2021, 11:14:07 PM

790	Great Forrest Treaty
790	Counsel of Barnstenagor
792	Hothmur Mountain Magic visit's Natsu's
796	Assualt on Baernl
797	Assualt on Grimhold
800	Grapalore
803	Sutyr betrays council
805	Conclave of Lakius
809	Day of Dust
809	Attack on Amasky - weeks of terror
810	Merid Destroyed
810	Grant calls out Razk
811	Gneblin Assassination
811	Battle of the Jungle Revealed
812	Spaz leaves
812	1000s leave the Bulwark on crusade
814	End of the Cult of Chaos
814	Kallark was destroyed
815	Artemus returns to Plateau
815	Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar ( Last stand ofSutyr)
815	Vega named chief constable
815	Iott is back to being in the place it was before (Schurke)
816	Undead came to Plateau (Grimhold )
816	Council Meeting
816	Red Glow on the Plateau
816	Low Bar Lightening

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 06, 2021, 11:31:46 PM

Koth and Malek

They sat down in Malek's parlor, which was adorned with all manner of crafted animals.  Mostly payments for his work over the years.  Barnstenagor was not a wealthy place, and Malek often didn't take coin for his work, but those he helped nonetheless wanted to repay him.  Since Malek was wealthier than almost anyone in the land, they gave him the only things they could that might be of value, pieces of craftwork.  Knowing he knew a great deal about animals, that always took the form of an animal.  It made him smile every time he sat down and looked at them.  It was angering when a child ran through the room and broke one.  Luckily, the lesser spells of repair were easy and Malek could still use them readily.

Koth always had trouble in this room, everything was so delicate.  Once he broke something while playing with one of the kids.  Malek had always assumed it was the kid and Koth had never corrected him.  This was the most depressing time Koth had made the trip.  He hoped none of the kids stumbled in as they spoke.

"News has come of a gathering.  At the mountain of Sutyr in Baenrl."  Koth, in his age, spoke haltingly, as if each sentence took his breath away.  It didn't but he felt the the desire to move and speak slower, and it was just easier to give in than fight it when not necessary.  The orcish half was winning.

Malek smiled, it had been a long time since he had to use his full talents.  Life was good hear, but there was always an element of danger and excitement missing that he had so craved when he was younger.  It would be nice to live that again for a time.  He looked at his belly and thought he should have been better prepared for this.

"Gnarion bids me go.  I will obey.  We will defeat Sutyr.  He will be banished from Habololy.  The world will be more free."  Koth saw the smile widing on his old friend's face.  Koth's sadness deepened.  "That leads me to my favor."  Malek started to rubs his hands and go over spells in his mind.  "Will you stay here?"

The room grew still and silent.  Finally Koth continued, "If we lose, Sutyr's vengeance will come for our land.  There will be no one here to protect the republic.  I, we," Koth motioned to the house, "Need you to stay.  You are capable.  But we don't know if any summoning of power will work.  If Iott aids Sutyr, we will have anti magic and you will not be protected outside it.  Their elementals will not be summoned.  You will not be able to control them."  Koth didn't know if all of these would be true, but some of them would be.  "Please stay."

Malek was hurt and he said nothing for quite a while.  He felt useless and as if this was his last chance to make a huge difference.  But he began to think of his family, of the people that had given him all those tokens of appreciation.  Helping them, protecting them made a huge difference as well.  He trusted Koth.

"Okay, I'll stay.  But you'll be back and we'll be back here talking again, when the world is free."  Malek doubted his works, but he said them anyway.

"Good.  Let's have a drink and eat.  I have two days before I leave.  I need you to tell me all about creatures of the plane of fire."  For the next two days, the old friends spent a great deal of time together.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 06, 2021, 11:33:33 PM

Quote from: Zunder on February 06, 2021, 11:14:07 PM

790	Great Forrest Treaty
790	Counsel of Barnstenagor
792	Hothmur Mountain Magic visit's Natsu's
796	Assualt on Baernl
797	Assualt on Grimhold
800	Grapalore
803	Sutyr betrays council
805	Conclave of Lakius
809	Day of Dust
809	Attack on Amasky - weeks of terror
810	Merid Destroyed
810	Grant calls out Razk
811	Gneblin Assassination
811	Battle of the Jungle Revealed
812	Spaz leaves
812	1000s leave the Bulwark on crusade
814	End of the Cult of Chaos
814	Kallark was destroyed
815	Artemus returns to Plateau
815	Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar ( Last stand ofSutyr)
815	Vega named chief constable
815	Iott is back to being in the place it was before (Schurke)
816	Undead came to Plateau (Grimhold )
816	Council Meeting
816	Red Glow on the Plateau
816	Low Bar Lightening

801 - Kallark transcends to Archeron

801 - Suian held in Iott

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 06, 2021, 11:54:28 PM

- stats ( live / peril / probably dead / death / total )

By Player
Asinjin - 100% life ( only Robert is probably dead )
Hero - 9/1/1/3/15 ( 1 erased) -- (60-73% living)
Malchia - 9/1/0/4/14    -- (64-71% living)
Po  5/1/1/8 ( 1 erased ) -- (62-87% living)
SM 0/0/0/2/2 -- (0% living)
Terror 5/1/0/2/8 -- (63-75% living)
Valdis 7/1/0/4/12 ( demagiced counts as alive ) -- (58-66% living)
Whitesword 7/2/0/3/12 -- (58-75% living)
Windblade 11/2/1/5/20 ( 1 erased ) -- (55-70% living)
WM 1/0/0/1/2 -- (50% living)
Zunder 11/1/2/3/17 -- (64-82% living)

By Setting
Constables (3/0/2/0/5) -- (60-100% living)
Falan (0/0/0/1/1) -- (0% living)
Gnolls (3/0/0/0/3) -- (100% living)
Great Forest (2/0/0/0/2) -- (100% living)
Icefea (8/1/0/1/11) ( 1 erased ) -- (72-81% living)
Mounted (0/0/0/2/2) -- (0% living)
Pacyr (0/1/0/2) -- (50-100% living)
Palumbton (2/0/0/1/3) -- (75% living)
Plateau (5/4/1/4/14) -- (35-71% living)
Port Springs (3/0/0/1/4) -- (75% living)
Rounges (7/0/0/3/10) -- (70% living)
Seas (10/2/1/4/17) -- (58-76% living)
String Mountains (4/0/0/1/5) -- (80% living)
Tyrogatore (3/0/0/3/6) -- (50% living)
Various (12/2/1/4/20) ( 1 erased, 1 demagic counts as living) -- (60-75% living)
Wizards (6/0/0/1/8) ( 1 erased ) -- (75% living)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 06, 2021, 11:56:08 PM

Plagues:

Altaemia,
Beresous,
Calamoust,	weakened the body until the heart had now energy to pump	Fatal
Dreg,	Orcish named that attacks the skin	Fatal
Everhot,
Fastobreathnomor,
Gor,
Haisusha
Pelinduri	Effects planar

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 01:10:06 AM

Quote from: Zunder on February 06, 2021, 11:54:28 PM

Po  5/0/1/8 ( 1 erased ) -- (62-75% living)

Missing a number somewhere in here

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 01:10:45 AM

Quote from: Zunder on February 06, 2021, 11:56:08 PM

Plagues:

Altaemia,
Beresous,
Calamoust,	weakened the body until the heart had now energy to pump	Fatal
Dreg,	Orcish named that attacks the skin	Fatal
Everhot,
Fastobreathnomor,
Gor,
Haisusha
Pelinduri	Effects planar

Based on this, anyone have a guess on how many there are?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 01:12:14 AM

Quote from: Zunder on February 06, 2021, 11:54:28 PM

Various (12/2/1/4/20) ( 1 erased, 1 demagic counts as living) -- (60-75% living)

Should I not list as various, but rather as the campaign the character started in or had the most sessions in?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 07, 2021, 01:28:44 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 01:10:06 AM

Missing a number somewhere in here

Sorry Missed Tuco - he's in peril


[size=0px]Po  5/1/1/8 ( 1 erased ) -- (62-87% living)[/size]

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 03:34:36 PM

Haas and Valizar part 2

The throng of lizardfolk formed a massive circle around the two.  If anyone had be traveling the road, they were in for a long delay.  They cheered for Valizar so loudly that anyone within a mile would hear it.  A nearby village fled in terror and was never able to fully return.  Animals would avoid the location for a year.  Plant life in the area was stomped out by the horde for a quarter mile in their frenzy.

As was tradition, Haas and Valizar removed their blessed items.  Each was allowed one prayer.  Haas became a giant and Valizar grew as well.  Now, two titans faced off and the forest trembled at the sight of it.  With a roar, Valizar charged in.  Although he would have liked to wrestle Haas into the ground, he knew that titan Haas would be near impossible to grab.  He focused his energy and readied to slap and stomp Haas into a place where he could get him to the ground and deliver the Tyrogatore Titankiller, the Planar Curbstomp, the subdued version.

Haas kept Valizar at range, moving back and using his very long arms to delay Valizar as he readied himself with other prayer or two.  He accepted the heavy slaps for this trouble and thanked Tyrogatore that his prayers were not disrupted.  Bruised but far from beaten, Haas returned the strikes.  Each blow was a cannon shot, each retort of thunderclap.  The lizardfolk nearby went from frenzied excitement to fear as if they watched two deities do battle.  The blows echoed through the forest, causing fey to flee and animals to burrow in hiding.  A nearby sky giant grew confused as he was sure a storm neared but their were no clouds.

Back and forth the two pounded each other.  The concussions would last for a week, the bruises for a month, the breaks for a year.  So frustrated was Valizar that he tried to trip Haas with his tail and then bit his foot, which was allowed.  As the two wore down, two dozen tree had been felled by the movement of the fight.  Only Haas' blessings kept him standing, but this was a battle for high cleric, and those were not only allowed, but supposed to be part of the duel.  Valizar had only the barest of spells and at that never learned which spells he cast would blend in the new ways of magic.  He was quite confused when he shrank in size even as he attacks grew more powerful against titan Haas.

Finally Valizar began to fade and Haas swooped low wrapping his arm around Valizar keeping him in place just long enough to deliver a heatbutt.  Both staggered backwards, seconds passed as the stared with glazed looks at each other.  They began to teeter, and they fell.

When they awoke, the next ranking cleric of Tyrogatore spoke and told them he had declared a winner.  Because Valizar's head had hit the ground first, Haas would remain high cleric.  Haas' head would hit moments after, only because it had to fall from a much greater height.

Once they could both talk, Haas' said: "Your march north is over, but we are needed to the west, in Baenrl."

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 07, 2021, 03:39:15 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 01:12:14 AM

Should I not list as various, but rather as the campaign the character started in or had the most sessions in?

Yes that would be cool and maybe up to the two top campaigns.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 03:56:55 PM

Looks like we are nearing the end of the tales.  If anyone sees an loose ends I haven't tied off, please let me know.

What's left that I know of that has to be posted (as opposed to the SNAP sequel) is:

- the Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar
- the red glow on the Great Plateau
- storm in Ermaneo

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 07, 2021, 04:00:11 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 03:56:55 PM

Looks like we are nearing the end of the tales.  If anyone sees an loose ends I haven't tied off, please let me know.

What's left that I know of that has to be posted (as opposed to the SNAP sequel) is:

- the Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar
- the red glow on the Great Plateau
- storm in Ermaneo

Story arcs look to be intact. Just need character level updates for all completed threads.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 07, 2021, 04:01:45 PM

Haas v Valizar was much less disastrous than I expected.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 07, 2021, 04:48:43 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 03:56:55 PM

Looks like we are nearing the end of the tales.  If anyone sees an loose ends I haven't tied off, please let me know.

What's left that I know of that has to be posted (as opposed to the SNAP sequel) is:

- the Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar
- the red glow on the Great Plateau
- storm in Ermaneo

These may be 4E starting points rather than loose ends but: Rin’s predicament, Who’s Re’Alph?, The Guardian of the Tides, who won the Suian and Graplore?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 04:54:07 PM

Quote from: whitesword on February 07, 2021, 04:48:43 PM

These may be 4E starting points rather than loose ends but: Rin’s predicament, Who’s Re’Alph?, The Guardian of the Tides, who won the Suian and Graplore?

Rin - 4th era
Re'Alpf - 4th era
Guardian - 4th era

Suian and Graplore, yes need to complete those

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 07, 2021, 05:03:37 PM

Quote from: whitesword on February 07, 2021, 04:01:45 PM

Haas v Valizar was much less disastrous than I expected.

Agreed.  I was worried when I first saw this post, but that was the best possible outcome I could've hoped for.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 07, 2021, 07:51:50 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 04:54:07 PM

Rin - 4th era

Someone killed the Traveler of the Seas...  The Angel of Fury has been summoned forth!!!!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 07, 2021, 09:53:18 PM

Quote from: whitesword on February 07, 2021, 04:01:45 PM

Haas v Valizar was much less disastrous than I expected.

I was expecting Valizar to prevail and undo all of Haas’ reconstruction efforts. Glad this turned out as it did so Haas can maintain his sanity.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 07, 2021, 10:40:52 PM

To give everyone the heads up, this brings an end to the stream of stories for the past 5 weeks.  The final few wrap up ones will be coming, but I wouldn't keep checking for new posts constantly.  I will ding when there is an update.  In the meantime, feel free to reminisce, save your characters stories, and perhaps discuss favorite scenes or more fan theories.

Thanks to Zunder for his timeline and death stats, xp will be awarded in the 4th era for his efforts.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 08, 2021, 12:34:47 AM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar

In northern Baenrl, away from the mountain fortress of the king of the giant nation, is the holy mountain of Sutyr, a place that has long been home to the high temple.  Once Sutyr betrayed the Counsil and left the plane to connect to his true self, the mountain erupted in fire and flame and has burned constantly since.  Those that traveled the desert’s edge road could see the smoke pouring out for ten miles away when it was light.  It was a beacon for those wishing to visit the high temple from Habololy and from other planes.  Now, unable and unwilling to extinguish the fire, it was a marker for all those that came to battle Sutyr.

They came from the far north.  Ice gnomes, far from home but willing to go into the most hostile environment to defeat their nemesis, led by the Great Liberator of Barnstenagor Koth.  Twelve hundred arrived at the mountain, though several hundred more had left their homeland months before.  The trip was hard for the gnomes.  Plagues of the main continent took a tool, made worse as climate made them ,pre susceptible.

They came from the north.  The king of Icefia arrived with the best soldiers the kingdom could spare.  Veterans of the Siege of Mount Oneash, experts in war machines, knights of renowned.  They sailed separate from their northern neighbors to make sure at least one group arrived to help.

The came from the Great Plateau.  Gneon and his tinkers sent one hundred planes.  Some arrived weeks before and quickly constructed a landing strip miles away.  Their efforts were harassed by mephitis at every turn.  The plane squadron was led by Admiral Gneeledbit.  Gneon also sent Commander Gnorsendar and his twelve Giant Killer Class Tinker Golems.  Slow and heavy, they sported massive spikes on top of them and heavy braces to prevent being crushed. 

They came from the east.  Having been on the sidelines for two decades, the Jungle Elves arrived to the surprise of most.  Led by a prince named Dedaryl, one thousand elves had made a long journey to defeat Sutyr.  They spoke of a tradition of the jungle elves to stand against great planar evil.  They spoke of finally being able to strike out against Iott, and they warned of the new Kingdom of Southern Yellowia.

They came from the planes.  The Guardians arrived in all their glory.  Waywatchers arrived from all over the main continent and Icefia.  A collection lead by Escalon the arrow, who was almost never seen in public in the world at large.  There was rarely a gathering of this number of their kind, and yet they arrived here, for this battle.

The came from the Great Forest.  Fey by the hundred arrived, lead by Spaz.  A barely organized collection, they were all compelled by forces and feelings that they did not quite understand but drove them to the battle.  Nervous and scared, they said that not acting scared them more than being there.  Their presence unnerved many.

They came from the ranks of the holy warriors.  Haas, high cleric of Tyrogatore along with mighty Valizar, Warlord of the Lizardfolk and also a cleric of Tyrogatore.  Ajax, most sacred warrior of Stasis.  Lukius Veratius, high cleric of the Old Orc, who most did not believe was there.  His presence gave pause to even the Guardians, who could not believe they would be allowed near him.  Raygen, Intorian liberator of Tfop arrived as expected.  Saren, paladin of all the goodly deities, traveler, and protector of the Desert’s Edge road, and also expected.

When all these had gathered, they met and talked and decided two things: Who among the assembled was best suited to lead; and that if they wanted to succeed, they needed more.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 08, 2021, 12:30:32 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 2

The assembled leaders had an idea of the magnitude of the enemies they faced, but they needed details if they were to succeed.  Some had heard different tales of what exactly they faced.  Some thought it was merely Sutyr, others mostly Iottians.  To learn more, the came together in a tent that was nothing like meeting rooms they were accustomed to using.  In the Guardian Vale, places as secure as there could be from planar intrusion existed.  In Balinhost, the Southern Coalition had constructed a meeting room impervious to divination.  The deep jungles of the elves were akin to Amansky in their opaqueness to intrusion.  The cold barrens of Gnarland were places few went.  The tinkers mastered the art of created noise and interference to make listing in or seeing in very challenging.  This was a tent.  It was large, it had flaps.  No enchantments swirled around it; wind could blow sand into it.  Volunteers brought in water to cool down the leaders.  With magic in its current state, there seemed little point to going further even if there were casters capable do doing it.

As was pointed out, it seemed not to matter much.  The forces at the mountain could see them and knew why they were there.  There was not going to be much subterfuge or intrigue.  There was only a timeline.  The group had more than days and weeks, but they did not have months.  They could not wait out the defenders, they had to at all costs defeat the power of Sutyr within the mountain.  The advantage they had was that for years the Guardians and their allies had routed out his cult around the world.  This was the last meaningful place of power for him.

The details the collected came from many sources.  At least two Iottians, who were never named at the meetings detailed some of it.  The great diviner Asinjin, who as luck would have it lived nearby provided more.  The Guardians and the Fey added their knowledge to the list.  The list the leaders saw gave them some.  A significant part of the Iottian arcane army, about a third by estimates, was now advocating Sutyr take Kallark’s role as the power behind their magic.  This group had sent 1,000 spellcasters to the mountain, with them were dozens of powerful clerics of Kallark that had switched cults upon his defeat.  Although Baenrl was split, and many giants did not want a return to the rule of Sutyr’s Sultans, enough were present to provide the heart of the mountain’s defense.  Three thousand fire giants were there.  Swirling about were planar creatures of varying types.  The creatures of the plane of fire were to be expected, as were those from the plane of ash, smoke, and magma.  Some fiends of the Nine Hells and Archeron were there, and they could also have been predicted.  More concerning was the presence of other planar creatures, ones from places and planes that should not be working with Sutyr and his allies.  No one present had a theory, or at least one they were willing to share, as to why they were there.  Most concerning was the presence of Sutyr’s avatar.  This additional news had little impact on the masses, as they already saw this as incredible mountain to climb.  To the leaders, those who knew, this was as concerning as they could imagine. 

In the room, with the leaders, Escalon summed it up, “This is not a temporary summoning.  This is not an appearance for his unholy day.  It is not there for an hour at a time.  It does not awaken when needed.  Sutyr’s avatar is there, in that mountain.  It plans and watches.  It is divinely directed by his true essence in the planes.  This level of intrusion is second only to Amat walking freely on Habololy.  And yet, we must succeed, at any cost.”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 08, 2021, 01:43:08 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 3

The allies could not decide on a name for themselves, but luckily, they agreed on strategy.  Knowing they could not wait for a long time; they began to test the mountain.  They moved their camp closer and closer, having started miles away.  The tinkers began bombing run, starting at great heights, and getting lower every few days.  The Icefian artillery tested against the smaller hills in the area to determine the strength of the stones.  The gnomes dug trenches.  The elves thoroughly scouted and learned the terrain.  They fey watched were given the task of numbering and naming the planar creatures.

During this, the leadership and the heroes searched for more help.  Iott was not that far removed from power and the failure of the last attempt to remove magic from them had led to many nations questioning whether this would be any different.  The zealots were in full revolt, but most nations were in no condition or had no interested in taking a stand against Iott.  Hertoplowis and Pacyr were the most interested, but they were so close to Iott, that no meaningful force could leave their nations to join the effort.  Some of them called for Valizar to command the lizardfolk to come, others wanted all Icefia to be on the march.  The majority believed that would lead to needless death.  The forces of Sutyr would cut down even veteran soldiers with ease.  Only the elite could help.

Two weeks into the assault, things had changed little.  The attacks were successful in that they collected information and suffered few losses.  It confirmed that the defenders were indeed more interested in defense than offence.  No plane was destroyed, no artillery piece broken.  Hope began to build that the effort could succeed, but that time would run out before it did.  At one meeting, Raygen took the center of the room and spoke, “To do this as soon as is needed, we need to think differently.  Pretend the rules are gone.  What would you want here helping us?”  Each member had an idea, and over the next month, some worked.

No one thought that the black figures clouding the sky were a good omen on a blisteringly hot day.  No one had illusions that they were a mirage.  The planes were almost scrambled when the call came to let them land.  Virtually none of those gathered had ever seen a Vishtoo before much less five hundred.  Their leader was black stone and was welcomed by Haas and introduced as Bezeded S'z't.  Valizar and the Vishtoo stared at one another for an uncomfortable minute.  Ajax’s nose wrinkled and tusks twisted uncontrollably.  Some thought he was having seizure.  Arion had to be directed the other way to inspect the soldiers.  Here they were, five hundred Vishtoo ready to fight.  Few know why, but they were there and willing to listen to Haas.

The lone figure that arrived from the south was very separated not noticed at all.  An elven scout saw the dwarf just before he walked into camp.  Weighed down with all manner of equipment, piled up higher than he should be able to carry, the solid grey beard walked right into the tent during dinner time.  Many sensed his presence soon before he entered.  The holy rose to their feet, the others, now joined by Bezeded S'z't did when then sensed not the dwarf, but the magnitude of the arrival from the others.  Ajax spoke first, “Lord Dourvan, you honor us with your presence.  With you here, we are all safer and more confident.”  When word spread to the soldiers over the next few days who had arrived, optimism was split with fear.  What were they facing that a quasi deity need arrive to aid them.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 08, 2021, 03:50:53 PM

Here is a theory on why Cloud and potentially the others of The Wizards 3 can still cast high level spells when the stones are broken.  Each of the wizards has certain conditions or items (that we keep secret) that they need to meet in order form them to have the power to cast spells.  I think those conditions/items that allow us to access our spells bypass the stones being broken.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 08, 2021, 04:59:29 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 4

Much of the mountain’s protections involved fire and the Vishtoo were able to probe them for several days before the defenders took real note of what was going on and what the creatures were.  One dead Vishtoo found by others on the slopes put an end to the easy scouting.  Up until that attack, the defenders had never left the safety of the mountain, but the death was clearly caused at close range.  The death helped the Vishtoo gain a bit more trust among the allies.

The guardians delivered disappointing news.  Their agents in Amansky could not convince the nearby nation, which had come through the past decades as unscathed as any, to lend assistance in any meaningful fashion, although several Nipits and Sakor’akai arrived of their own accord.  They joined a growing list of adventurers from around the main continent and some from beyond, that journeyed to help in the fight.  Even at that, there were fewer than they would have hoped.  Iott had taken its toll on the world, as had the plagues.  The effort to extinguish Sutyr’s cult up to this point had thinned the list of experts in dealing with exactly this type of problem.

Help trickled in day by day, week by week.  Saren and Koth’s ally Knot arrived.  The host of guardians and Icefians included: Garanuf Frozensky the giant killer, Palaat the Long Arm, Jamison Wokal cleric of Gnarion, Gnicodemos Batterbronze, Argus of the Fire Eagles, Tania Falconsoul, Cinatus Ulogot, Alara Gemblade Knight Captain, Derman Warmarch Knight Captain, and Avren Songsmith Knight Captain.  Raygen’s friends and allies The Nomad Lords led by Renalshaw and numbering eleven arrived.  The desert elven sultans did not come, nor did they send their bodyguard or agents, but as a sign of good faith, they paid for the Trio of Gold; Juhutimose, Emenses, and Khenmet to take part.  Their help was accepted, but Haas, Ajax, Saren, Knot and others were displeased by the presence of the mercenaries who had opposed them years before.

Each person that came wanted to give an opinion, which would have been chaos had it not been for the presence of Dourvan.  Not even the Trio of Gold was so arrogant as to assume they knew more about strategy than a quasi deity of it.  The plan he crafted had not flaws that anyone in the tent could perceive.  Only another deity of greater intellect might have had a chance at defeating it.  None knew if Sutyr fit that description, but they feared he might.  The plan Dourvan crafted was elegant and simple.  Close the noose around the mountain.  They had some time to spare, so they could inch closer, minimize loses and weaken the enemy forces.  When the time was right, they would launch an all-out attack aimed at defeating Sutyr.  Once done, whatever remained could be delt with or if no resources were left to fight them, their existence would be an annoyance but pose no existential threat.

As the weeks went on, those sort of words from the mouth of Dourvan, spread through the camp and beyond.  Two months into the siege, some others began to sense the weight of the threat and more help would begin to arrive.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 08, 2021, 06:44:51 PM

The storm in Ermaneo will be a limited series played in session.  If you have a character listed in that story arc, make sure to get them ready.  Please let me know if I didn't give the character and updated level.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 08, 2021, 07:21:34 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 08, 2021, 06:44:51 PM

The storm in Ermaneo will be a limited series played in session.  If you have a character listed in that story arc, make sure to get them ready.  Please let me know if I didn't give the character and updated level.

Can you give the characters that are in that Story Arc.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 08, 2021, 07:23:26 PM

Quote from: Windblade on February 08, 2021, 07:21:34 PM

Can you give the characters that are in that Story Arc.

Everyone who ended their story at the Low Bar.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 08, 2021, 07:29:01 PM

OK I know I have Cloud.  I will try to find time to read through the story again to see if I had anyone else.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 09, 2021, 11:20:35 AM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 5

Only one type of aid was turned away, and it happened in the ninth week of the siege.  First the tinkers reported planes not starting, then the Trio of Gold claimed missing components.  After a day, Spaz was the first to figure out that gremlins were around.  Sensing something grand, and not too far from the mountain, a swarm of them arrived.  Like locusts they were into everything.  Claiming they would help, claiming that Compture wanted Sutyr to be gone, they offered support.  Their leader, who called itself The Great and Powerful Eez, met some of the leaders, but not in the tent.  After hearing its request, the leaders met.  By overwhelming vote, they decided to tell the Gremlins thank you but you must leave.  Spaz, who was one of the few votes to allow them to stay, suggesting they go into the mountain to cause chaos.  Eez decried the decision and vowed retribution once it was over, but for now, it would leave.

Other strange allies arrived and were allowed to remain.  Two Horarians with a complection that was different than typical arrived.  Some of those assembled had been to the Iron Tower in Ekarude and recognized Kagetora Uso the sword master and Kaiu Tingsho the battle wizard.  Despite being in an abnormal state of existence, they were welcomed.  As they sat in the ever-growing tent to have dinner on their first night when Kaiu began to speak of the troubles of their home world and how closely this threat came to their own history.  Dourvan and Escalon guided the conversation quickly away from further detail and only Dourvan’s divine presence prevented a stir as the conversation turned to strategy going forward.

The night sky flashed days later and a warning call rang out, planes began to spin up but the scouts reported no action at the mountain.  A bolt of white or silver raced across the ground and into the tent.  Many saw, few neared.  Whatever would go into that tent uninvited was no business of anyone not in it.  The leaders that were inside at the time, including Ajax, Dourvan, Arion and Koth saw a white-hot scaled dragon, smaller than any would expect.  “I am Dash, I have to at the request of my lord to aid you.  With my are two agents of the Golden Mother who will reveal themselves when needed.”  Word ciculated with two days that dragons were in the camp, and they were allies.  At no other time would moral and confidence reach this level.

The effort to close the noose continued.  Each day, the forces inched closer and still rare was the engagement with the enemy.  They could be seen, they could occasionally be heard, but only the stay scout of low flying plane ever seemed at any risk.  Talk turned to what would happen in the battle itself and how the allies would fight the giants and planar creatures.  As if someone had been listening, the tent was visited again.  This time guards lead a Nipit into the room.  Ajax recognized him and smiled briefly before realizing what he had become.  Dourvan bade him speak.

“I am Malchia, herald of the great Collector.  He has an offer to make, to help with his battle.  I need to speak with King Arion.”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 09, 2021, 11:09:02 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 6

The king, the high cleric of Stasis Michael, Escalon, Haas, Dourvan, Emenses, a transformed Dash, prince Dedaryl, and Lukius were in the room as Malchia made the Collector’s offer.

"The fight against Sutyr will be a hard one and the glorious Collector in his wisdom and charity wants to help the effort.  King Arion, you possess an item that is of great interest to the magnificent Collector.  In exchange for this item, he would give to you and your allies here the following bounty of magic that would be by any estimation a steal."  He unfurls a scroll and reads:

“- 12 giant bane weapons
- 11 fire resisting shields
- 10 winged boots
- 9 beads of force
- 8 bracers of spell resistance
- 7 gloves of rock throwing
- 6 cloaks of displacement
- 5 regenerating amulets
- 4 staffs of frost
- 3 helms of true seeing
- 2 rings of spell turning
all for
 - 1 Hammer of Thunderbolts

The Collector awaits your answer.”

There is a murmur in the room, especially among the Icefians.  Several of the other leadership gather outside the door to see and hear what was happening.  Spaz maneuvers inside.  In response, Michael asks: “How long do we have to consider your offer?”

"It is an open offer until the fighting begins.  Probably not up to the last second, but a day before."

Another pause and quick conversation, followed by Michael asking, “I presume you are specifically referring to the Hammer that Arion is now carrying, and that if we could find or buy an alternative Hammer that would not be sufficient?”

"Yes, specifically the one that belonged to the great hero, his ancestor." Malchia responds.

Emenses, curious and unafraid, chimes in, “What exactly does this hammer do that the all-powerful lord of magic items is so interested?”  No one answered him.  Instead, Michael said, “That’s what I thought. Your master misunderstands the situation. The Hammer is not Arion’s to give. It is a relic of our church and he can no more give it away than he could the Gemblade or Stasis’ armor.  However, as your offer is generous, allow me to make a counter proposal.  I will just need a day or two to make the arrangements. Please be our guest.”

With a bow of agreement, the herald of the Collector left the tent and a discussion began.  Those in the tent were soon joined by a myriad of other and the largest gathering of leaders that had yet occurred took place.  The Icefians kept their own counsel for the most part, despite constant questions.  Finally, Michael and Escalon leave the tent and the camp.

The next two days are some of the most tense.  For the first time, the leadership appears divided and the troops can tell.  It does not take long for word of what has happened to spread.  A growing number feel that the religion of Stasis is being unreasonable.  Few blame the king.  Progress slows for those days.  Ajax convinces the dissidents to give the high cleric a chance to make things right when he returns.  He does return, flanked by Escalon, Arion, and two other that had not been here before.  Malchia is summoned to the tent.  They are carrying two large lead cases, one bearing a crest unknown to most, the other crest of the Desytoytian Republic.

Some heard the exact words, others heard only the gist of the meeting.  Malchia and the Collector are offered two items instead of the hammer.  One he refuses, the other he says he must consider.  He leaves, but not in a bad mood.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 09, 2021, 11:35:20 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 7

The next day started off not different than any previous day.  The noose would be close several dozen feet.  Planes would bomb the mountain.  Scouts would make their counts of sighted enemies.   Such was the progress that the Icefian artillery was hopeful that bombardments could start soon.  Talk among the soldiers was that things were going well enough that tinker artillery might soon arrive.

But the day did not long stay like the many other before it.  Calls of warning rang out from spotters and scouts.  Those posted the most advanced fled back.  The mountain spewed forth not lava, but mixed with the endless smoke a flock of creatures.  They were all manner of things, thousands of them.  Fiends and demons, celestials and shadow, animal and beast, elemental and undead.  Running, flying, swimming, crawling, hopping and floating.  The swarm rushed down the mountain side like a perverted creeping doom.

“Clearly summoned”, Khenmet said as he and many other watched from outside the tent.  “And if they aren’t?” Koth asked as he lifted his heavier than it had ever felt hammer.

Not able to take the chance, Dourvan motioned to one of the Nomad Lords who raised a pillar of sand under him so that all could see.  Calling out direction in a voice the was reassuring and seemed as if spoken to each ally individually, the deity of strategy moved the field as a chess board.  In a unison the diverse forces could never have hoped to achieve, the formed up lines of defense faster than the swarm descended the mountain.

The military among them marveled at the sight.  Arion and the prince of the elves teared at he magnificent of the dwarf’s power and ability.  The only ones there not out of devotion to the cause, the Trio of Gold, were even inspired it.  As quickly as it had come, the swarm vanished.

“A test.” Dourvan spoke, and all agreed.”  There was quiet and concern.  The army waited in place for thirty minutes.  The sound of planes could be heard above, waiting for an order.  One figure walked out beyond the lines.  The only bugbear present, Knot strode out defiantly.  Yelling in bugbear at the mountain, he turned, bent over presented backside.  The army roared.  The rest of the day was quiet.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 12:12:48 AM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 8

While there was no way to prove or disprove it, many argued that the arrival of the Collector’s agent triggered the mountain and Sutyr to act.  Certainly, from that day forward, there were few quiet ones.  Not a day in the next thirty passed when the swarm did not descend from the mountain.  Each day it would have some different combination of creatures.  Always summoned, they tested and probed.  They slowed advance of the allies, they made some nervous, and other anxious.  Some clamored for action, which in turn took time and energy away from their efforts to keep everyone on task and on plan.

Only Dourvan’s presence allowed for such a diverse collection to function together.  The other leaders, Haas, Arion, Raygen, Dedaryl, Bezeded S'z't, and Kven the leader of the ice gnomes began to worry about an assassination attempt.  Some thought it silly to even consider the thought.  A quasi deity, assassinated?  To put their minds at ease, they assigned two to bodyguard Dourvan.  First, they asked one of the dragons, the one called Miril.  Second, they asked Tania Falconsoul.  Both would not leave his side.

In the midst of that, Malchia returned, this time accompanied by a slick and pompous looking fellow.  Word spread that it was the high cleric of the Collector, named Natsu.  Hours later, the two left the tent, carrying one of the lead boxes.  Once outside, the high cleric declared.  “Today, thanks to the wisdom of the religion of Stasis and the greatness of the almighty Collector, you have all been delivered a gift, assured victory!”  A cheer rose up and dozens went to sleep more confident that they would survive the battle.

The day after the Collector’s agents left, the bombardment began.  Icefian ballista began to pound the mountain.  The did not expect to collapse it, but giants and wizards were not imperious to falling rocks.  They needed to sleep and feel some security.  Now planes by night and artillery by day would endlessly pound the mountain.  Spotters began to pick out spells being used to deflect the attacks, something that had not been done before.  The leaders sighed and hoped the plan was working.

The call three days after the bombardment began was one of great alarm.  Ajax sensed a new type of presence in the field of battle.  Other confirmed that undead were now in play.  The leaders gathered in the tent to discuss.  Now new enemies had entered the mountain to date.  Was this a sign of growing concern on their part.  Could it be good that they were worried, or bad that they were able to call reinforcements.  It proved neither was true.  Saren went to Ajax and confirmed to each other who now approached.

Still at a distance, covered in shadow despite the sunny day, a man with skin drooping neared.  Trailing behind him was a collection of creatures that appalled the paladins and many others gathered.  They got no closer, but their leader did.

“In the name of Vestilion, I Harrick, his high cleric, do offer the services of our religion in the most noble cause.”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 10, 2021, 08:01:47 AM

Harrick looks at Ajax with his hands up.. " Before you go off and Glory Bolt me 6 times, I'm still not evil "

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 10:56:49 AM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 9

The reaction of the Icefians and those from Gnarland was nearly hostile to the appearance of the undead fire users; and none of the groups that made up the army were pleased.  A conclave was called, the activities of the day were slowed.  The tent, which had grown non magically so that it could accommodate a hundred individuals was active with debate.  Only a few weren’t present, making sure the field was not empty of leadership should the mountain launch an attack.
“What are we if we ally with them?”
“They are as close to what we are fighting against as is possible?”
“We allow the shades to be here, how different are they?”
“Sutyr and the Iottians cannot be prepared for them, it is a clear advantage.”

The choice to expel the Gremlins had been a practical one, and almost no one had dissented from the choice.  This posed a problem.  Some members seemed adamant they would not participate if Harrick and his minions were allowed to stay.  Others demanded that if this threat was as great as was they were lead to believe, no help could be turned away, if it was, then the threat was not that great and they should reconsider the plan.

Dourvan had become the leader, but he could not help here.  “The strategic decision is simple.  They make our mission easier.  They can be put to great use in the field.  I would have them stay, but I understand some of your objections.  Victory at any cost may cost you the ultimate victory.  Whatever you decide, decide soon.  Indecision here is the worst path.”

Lukius, likely the second most respected at the gathering, recused himself.  While some had hoped based on him being here at all he would enter the debate, in truth, that was a lot to ask.  Haas took the center and as judge set the rules.  “One day to decide, then we vote.  Discuss and debate.  I will start.  Their actions say that want to help.  For me, for this moment, that is enough.”  For the next day, the debate raged.  As arguments grew, fights began.  Vishtoo and ice gnomes, elves and tinkers, Icefians and fey.  The worst of it saw Valizar take great umbrage over the perceived insulting of Grand Father Haas.  He nearly squeezed the life out of Jamison Wokal, before others calmed the situation.

The Trio of Gold watched the debates with great amusement.  They were obligated to be present by payment, so their vote was for help to stay, anything that made the battle better for their side.  As the only mercenaries present, they proved their worth in that day.  Khenmet figured it out first, and protected himself, followed by his partners.  He went to talk to Dourvan to confirm what he saw.  Soon after, the wizards were rushing around, ahead of the growing anger in camp, dispelling and warding.  The Iottians were in the mix, casting spells of rage and influence.  A mad race against time began.  Stop the enchantment from spreading and find the Iottians.  Planes were grounded. War machines were stopped just before they were fired at the distant undead.  Vishtoo pulled out of the gnomish trenches.

Prince Dedaryl and Palaat claimed the only prize of the day and scored the first casualty among the defenders that they knew.  An Iottian wizard, a human in her 40’s, undetectable in all ways, found only by physically running into her.  They took her alive, but soon learned a valuable piece of intelligence at a great cost.  As the two dragged her towards a pit which had been prepared and called for help, she exploded.  The Trio, the most skilled wizards present used to working together would later say she had initiated the spell which then triggered all of her magic items to explode.  The blast annihilated Palaat, nearly killed Dedaryl, and left more twenty nearby fey and elves dead.

Saren commented shortly after, “If they get desperate, and enough of the Iottians decide there is no option left, we will all die out here.”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 10, 2021, 11:15:15 AM

Any one know what was in the case that was traded to collector which sealed the deal of selling our soul to the devil or more precisely the slaad.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 11:49:33 AM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 10

The vote was held the next day, and although by this point is was clear that Harrick was going to be allowed to stay, the sobering attack and loss of life drove home the need to all the help they could get.  The leadership overwhelmingly voted to allow them to stay, although it was made clear that they were not intermingle with most of the others.  It was decided that Kagetora Uso and Kaiu Tingsho would be the liaisons between the groups.  With the decision made, and a brief ceremony held to honor the fallen, Dourvan spoke.

“The time is now.  Although months remains, I calculate that they will grow more desperate.  Our numbers will continue to grow, more allies will arrive.  As they do, the mountain will see that and grow less confident.  They will recruit more allies and look to delay ours from arriving.  Their ability to stay cohesive is better than ours.  There is a greater chance, as we have seen recently, of us losing ground in the escalation of forces.  Nearly wiping out both sides and forcing this to start again benefits them, as they only need to stall and we need to win.  The circle has closed enough to allow for success.  We can succeed.  Ready your armies.  No need to hide, they will see and know.  We go tomorrow.”

With energy and confidence, the tent emptied and everyone prepared.  Only Escalon and Ajax remained with the dwarf.  Moments later, they were both gone, having left not only the area, but the plane.  Dourvan went out to a position a quarter mile from the bottom of the mountain.  From there, here rose on the sand pillar the nomad lords had made for him and began to conduct.

Hair perfectly organized, trimmed and even grey all the way around, the dwarf looked every bit the Maestro.  His short sword his baton, his breast plate emblazoned with grey shield and brown cross of his faith, he began his work.  Dash described the scene from above as if he was watching a swarm of ants moving in perfect harmony.  It was incredible to see the coordination between such disparate forces.  The planes, now flying lower than ever, dropped bombs that shook the mountain.  The Icefian Artillery rattled it as well, now within range to unleash the heaviest of loads.  All this took place under one sun or two, as it was hot and little night would give them comfort.  The ice gnomes, their trenches completed, moved into position from the south, closer than any other force.  The undead took the eastern front, farthest from the rest.  The Vishoo flew to the north, Haas, Valizar joining them.  The elves were to the southeast.  The tinker golems, the slowest of the forces moved from the west.  The Icefians and their knights took the northern flank.  The rest mixed into the forces where they were needed and able.  The nomad lords took the task of protecting Dourvan on the battlefield.

For hours, the bombardment continued.  After four hours, as the short night began, the mountain started to respond.  Elementals spewed out racing towards planes and artillery.  The planes scattered, Dourvan directing them to head in certain directions and the dragons went to work destroying them.  Hidden by the night and the smoke, the three chased and dispatched the elementals one by one.  Those that came for the Icefian artillery were more successful, but partially by design.  The Icefians retreated and allowed the elementals to go to work.  But artillery had been protected magically, and only a few were destroyed, but the elementals suffered mightily.  The tinker golems, each sporting elemental engines of great size and stationed nearby began to suck in elemental after elemental, discharging the them back out as quickly as they absorbed them, wiping away waves after wave.  Guardians and the other heroes moved swiftly to the area to help out the fight.

By the time the sun rose a few short hours later, the bombardment would begin anew.  Dourvan, master calculator of forces, strategist supreme, spoke softly to nearby Haas.  “Our odds have improved after that first round.” 
Haas responded, “Never tell me the odds.”

It was the 16th day of the 8th month of 815.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 11:50:50 AM

Quote from: Windblade on February 10, 2021, 11:15:15 AM

Any one know what was in the case that was traded to collector which sealed the deal of selling our soul to the devil or more precisely the slaad.

I do.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 10, 2021, 11:57:39 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 11:49:33 AM

It was the 16th day of the 8th month of 785.

Should this read 815?

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 12:18:20 PM

The forces ate breakfast where they stood.  Morale was impressive considering what was coming.  The assembled leaders were some of the best at what they did and had proven during the months that they were willing to die with the rest.  Arion, Gnorsendar, Bezeded, Dedaryl, Kven, and even Spaz were all liked if not loved by the troops.  The assembled heroes were no less impressive.  Two hundred individuals that by themselves could likely defeat a dozen giants, a swarm of elementals, or a handful of fiends were gathered.  It was the several dragons and the presence of a quasi deity which gave them more comfort than all of that.

After morning, the weather came.  All manner of wind and storm were summoned to thwart the allies.  Dourvan had foreseen this tactic, and the counters were in place.  The artillery paused for less than an hour as the field was cleared, and it began again.  The forces moved closer, encircling the mountain in a tighter ring.  As he suspected, the mountain unleashed a swarm of summoned creatures.  The swarm that had experienced before rolled down again.  For the first time, the armies would come melee.  There were no lesser troops in their midst, there were no easy pickings for the summoned.  All that was here were elite troops, each the match for a giant spider or fiendish griffon.  Whether because they flew or were in trenches, or protected by shield walls or arrow storms, the forces were little effected by the swarms.

The heroes, dispersed among the soldiers deftly found the assassins in the ranks of the summoned.  Fiends would kill the occasional soldier, but once revealed, they were sound destroyed.  Spells with great distance would test the lines, only to be countered by spellcasters.  The circle tightened again.  The nomad lord Renalshaw, leader of them, fell to the ground, convulsing and stricken by a dozen spells, he died painfully in moments.  Dourvan motioned to Juhutimose, who sent their allies in the Great Forest.
Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 11

Now was the time, Tchau had received the order.  He turned to Ash.  “It has begun, I will go in, you know what to do.”

With a snarl, Ash growled back in elven, “I hate you; I hope you die too in there.  Dedestroyt curse you and your kind.”  He spit.  Tchau did not respond and flew through the forest.

Once he was out of sight, Ash picked up his bow and turned to towards Vor’Ruk.  The orc was chatting with Rompei and grooming his horse.  “You sure there’s no way to get him in there?  Would make this easier.”  Ash didn’t speak.  He pulled back the bow string and aimed true.  “You will be avenged.”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 12:19:08 PM

Ash's List:

Lana Swiftbreeze

Half breed bastard orc that captured Malchia

Douche clowns that killed Ty

Trix Topshot

Pompous Ass that Called himself the Kingtaker

vigilantes that helped kill Wilham

Fal Swift

Esyan Pavrosa

so-called Iottian governor of Southern Yellowia putz

doppelganger assassin that killed Alwidst's consort

Vowgist Sharpe

Henry Forreshot

Governor of Yellowia

Tchau

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 12:19:27 PM

Quote from: Malchia on February 10, 2021, 11:57:39 AM

Should this read 815?

Yes, will change

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 12:37:26 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 12

Walking into the circle of magic was it is being reconstructed is no small task for virtually anyone in the world.  But Tchau was one of the most notable members of Iottian arcanery, and he had some privileges.

“How goes the progress?”  The twenty arcanists paused their work.  The four guards looked to him.  The momentary pause was all Tchau needed.  Bursting into flame, his formed raced through the guards.  Each one was hammered by a fiery first that looked to stun and ignite them.  Almientiro, unleashed a fiery blast that engulfed the arcanists.  The timing was perfect.  Vor’Ruk appeared, city cleaver in hand.

One last time, the orc charged the stones.  He charged and chopped and Tchau held back the guards and arcanists.  It could not have gone better.  Shocked and unprepared, the Iottians could not handle Tchau.  Fire exploded every round and before any response of meaning could happen, only two guards stood against their fiery foe.  Vor’Ruk had cleaved through all but two of the stones.

“Its over, burn to death hear or take your chances out there.” The guards fled, but not quickly once they realized Tchau was not paying attention.  A lifetime of magic was strewn in the circle, the two would live happy lives with that bounty.

Vor’Ruk approached the last stone and paused, “What will happen after this?”  There was no one there to answer except the fiery elf who shook his head.  Vor’Ruk shouted a prayer and cut through the stone.  In a flash, he was gone as was city cleaver.

In Intoria, Dourvan sensed it and waited.  It took a few minutes, but the fey began to report.  Spaz confirmed “Chaos inside the mountain.  The Iottians are going mad, their powerful spells are failing, they need time to re-prepare.”  Dourvan allowed a smile and a nod.  He pointed his sword towards the mountain.

“Charge!”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 09:13:35 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 13

Mount Ila'Alnar was not an original part of the desert’s edge range which was the capital of Baenrl.  It was created by Sutyr as he arrived on Habololy hundreds of years ago.  Crafted to be a symbol of his power and his high temple, the lone mountain rises two thousand feet from the rock and sand.  It is surrounded on all sides by a mostly flat landscape.  To the south, hill begin and continued until the range of moutnains starts.  To the west and north, desert for miles.  In the west, it become sandy quickly, while in the north it is a harder landscape of desert.  To the east, after several miles is the desert’s edge road that marks the border between Intoria and the Great Forest.  The mountain oversees the road, and has long threatened it.

This is the place where the battle to banish Sutyr was fought.  On his terms, but with no where left for the deity to retreat to in Habololy.  Should his avatar he destroyed, his power would fade to a level that would not sustain those who might still believe in him.  It had been quite a long time since this had happened.  Cults had come and gone, but to have one defeated in such a way was rare.  What was strange to those among the allies that knew history and some religion was why this was such an imperative task.  Sutyr likely had less power than anytime since he first arrived on Habololy.  For a decade, the guardians and other goodly forces had sough out his unholy places and his faithful.  Only his following in Iott sustained him now, and Iott looked to be fading from the world stage as well.  Something else must be the cause of this urgency.  If some of the leaders of the attack knew, and some surely must, they did not share with the others.  Luckily, few thought about it that deeply and most were content to know that defeating an evil cult deity was reason enough.


The call to charge echoed around the mountain.  Soldiers heard the call in the ears and their heads.  They knew what they had to do, guided by divine direction and a plan that had been made clear to all.  Even the undead had been placed into the grand strategy by the master planner.  The artillery stopped, the planes circled, the soldiers advanced.  Fey flew invisibly ahead of each group, looking for pitfalls.  A quarter of the way there, and still no retort from the mountain.  They pushed farther, not in a sprint, but on double time up the ever-inclining slope.  There was not sign of giant or fiend, elemental or wizard.  None thought for a moment that it was over, that surrender neared.

Spaz was the first to figure out from where the attack would come.  Flying with several of fey ahead of the elves, a fey hound found a hole.  Thinking it only a small hole and expecting to escape, it went in to Spaz’s dismay.  He chased after it and heard a crunch and squish.  Only in the hole a moment, Spaz was able to see.  A stone wall, part of the mountain.  Hollowed out and thin enough for giant to crash through yet thick enough to prevent magic penetration.  Spinning around he launched a red trailing sparkling comet, the signal for all stop.  The fey leaders had been given them by the tinkers.

In the next few minutes, the full chaos of battle erupted.  The allies stopped and waited for orders.  The fey began to mark the areas of thin stone in hopes that they could be targeted by artillery.  The mountain hoped to wait for the soldiers to get closer, but seeing that their plan had been uncovered, the call for attack before an advantage that could be had was lost.  A brass horn blew from deep inside the mountain.  Giants with mighty hammers blasted away the tone walls that held them back.  Cloaked by mists and fogs and other minor spells to hide them eight columns of fire giants flowed out of the mountain.  Each column rushed towards an objective.  Each column seemed endless in the way a line of two hundred giants might seem.

The fey scattered, not out of fear or cowardice, but as instructed.  The Icefians formed a block and readied themselves.  The vishtoo took to the air and met the eye level of the giants.  The gnomes retreated to their trenches.  The elves set their spear wall and began to pour arrows into the giants.  Only one column of giants stopped quickly.  The one that moved out to face the undead stopped.  Gathering boulders and spears, the readied to bombard the undead.  Farther up the mountain, more rubble began to fall and more walls were knocked out as spotters saw the mountain’s artillery began to take its place.

The pieces on the board moved as Dourvan had predicted.  Nothing he saw he had not thought might happen.  What he could not control was the nerves and skill of those he commanded, although he lent every one of the thousands a bit of skill from his planning.  The giants were in play, the wizards out of commission, the elementals diminished.  “The fiends will come from behind, likely teleporting.”  is what he said.

Each group held its own against the giants.  Prepared, armed, and buoyed by heroes, they held.  The giants were formidable and organized.  The smashed shield and snapped spears, they broke bodies of all types.  They did not break one unit in their initial charge.  They had only needed to hold long enough for the mountain to respond, as it finally did.  Minutes after nearly 2,000 giants had charged out of the mountain, with no allied group having broken, the fiends took the field.  Teleporting in behind the allies, a thousand planar creatures from several planes started appearing.  It was an overwhelming number, one that in a minute would have turned the tide and led to utter defeat.  As the soldiers kept fighting the giants, the heroes that were mixed in and waiting turned to the fiends and planar creatures.

Dourvan motioned his sword and Lukius nodded.  He called to Ajax.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 09:55:26 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 14

For hours that could not be counted in the same way time was measured on Habololy, Ajax has traveled the planes.  Now, he heard the call.  Looking back at the group he had gathered, he felt confident as he could be.  But the plane called to him.  Every time he came here, it was harder to leave.  He wondered how may more times he could make this trip before the call would be too great.  But he dismissed the thought for at least the moment.  Calling upon his divine power, Ajax again opened a gate.  He would open several in the next minute and nearly collapse from the effort.

Over but not directly above the mountain, the gate opened against the sun so that few could see its appearance.  When they saw the results, either joy or horror befell the viewer.  Dropping like a stone and stopping on a coin above the other Vistoo was one with platinum skin and black wings instead of a cape.  Armed with a great sword, he shown in the sun and inspired the Vistoo that had never seen such a thing.  With every swing of his sword, a fiend seemed to die.  Inspired in a different way, Bezeded S'z't went kill for kill, matching a giant death for each fiend.  The Vishtoo need only watch.

Following him were a flock of archons the likes of had not been seen on Habololy.  With the faces of children, cloaked in garbs with no armor or weapons, they descended softly on flower petal wings.  They did not attack the fiends or giants, but sprinkled petals from their wings.  When the landed on the wounded, they healed.  When they landed on the enemy, they calmed.  When the landed on the fiends, they burned with holy fire.

Next came a Solar, the first that Habololy had seen in thirty years.  Winged and emblazoned with the symbol of Hemator, many of the heroes soon recognized the form and features of the Saint Solaris.  Soaring across the sky he hurtled around the mountain smiting the flying fiends as he circled.

Ajax did not descend like a glorious angel, but walked up to Dourvan’s position and let out a deep sigh.  Engrossed in action, Dourvan managed a nod and smile.  The Nomad Lords rushed off into battle as did Dourvan’s other bodyguards.  Ajax remained with the Trio of Gold, who floated about, mostly unable to help with meaningful magic disabled.

With the battle fully raging, with his plans mostly played out, Dourvan pondered the outcomes and wondered one which side the coin would land.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 10:42:17 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 15

It was a rare meeting of high clerics that was taking place during the battle.  Lukius, high cleric of The Oldest Orc was aiding the battle with spells and blessings as directed by Dourvan.  But his presence meant far more than those simple spells.  Him being there indicated to the powers of Habololy that this was a time for intervention, perhaps even interference.  It meant that the rules were suspended, forever briefly.  In that short time, around the world, a deity can accomplish a great deal.  But here, at the mountain near the battle one other deity chose to send its high cleric.  Valen Tracenkall, rarest seen of the Counsel deities, ever in a new form, now took the shape of an orcish child, a female one at that.  Had the battle not been raging, Haas and many others would have sensed its presence.  As it was, only Ajax noticed out of the corner of his eye and gave a pouting face.   His sight revealed nothing static.  A changing mass in constant motion and he sensed Compture at play.

“This is fun.” Ajax heard.  Directing for its lord, pointing in amusement, a giant each round was turned into another type of creature.  A moth, a beetle, a toad, a giant Icefian molted hare.

The battle was hard but hoped swelled among the allies.  Guardians and heroes defeated more fiends each round.  Giants failed again and again to break any of the blocks of soldiers.  Songs began to fill the air, piercing the ears of the fiends and uplifting the hearts of the allies.  The winds sang and the sun’s rays seemed to burn a bit less.  Arion, at the head of the Icefians, now moving them up the slope, stowed the hammer and brought out the gemblade.  The first of any of the blocks to do so, they left the fiends behind and the giants fell back.

Not hearing the calls of the guardians in the rear guard, Arion waved the gemblade in an arc in front of him and cut a burning light through the fiends in front of him.  They did not flinch and he paused, but too late.  The creatures, giant planar creatures armed and adorned like the rest were not fiends.  Why they were here and what they were Arion did not know, but he sensed the jeopardy of the situation.  With the captains of the knights at his sides, he attacked.  The Icefians followed.

Calls went out around the mountain.  A fey sent up a yellow flare near the Icefians calling for aid.  One of the planar giants quickly extinguished it.  With axes and sword, the ten doubled to twenty in a blink.  The giants that had fallen to the sides, still dozens of them cut off a retreat.  Darkwind answered the call, but even he could not get there instantly.  Solaris soared in, but he stalled in his descent seemingly unable to engage these creatures.  Arion watched as his knights were cut down.  Realizing that he was the target and not the soldiers he charged forward, drawing their attention.  Up the mountain he raced, leaving the soldiers behind, hoping to save them.

Ajax could not see the distance, and did not know what was happening.  He sensed something was wrong and the flare concerned him.  “Your king is in jeopardy.” Said Valen, “you may want to relieve him.”  Ajax started off, and then heard, “But if Dourvan dies, the whole plan is in jeopardy.  What to do?”  Lukius murmured in response, “Stay Ajax, help nears Arion faster than you.”

A thunderous boulder smashing his leg, Arion fell to the ground.  Propping himself up, he faced the creatures.  A valiant death was not a terrible thing.  For a cause as worthy as this, he could do far worse.  A hammer crashed down into the head of the leading planar giant, driving it into the ground.  Landing on the creature was a giant of a different type.  Arion had spent only a short time talking the old half orc, but he smiled at Koth’s appearance, above him, briefly, he saw a dragon.  Every bit the warrior Arion was, and not exhausted and wounded, Koth kept the creatures at bay.  Darkwind arrived and drove them farther back.  Enough for the Icefians to gather around the king.

“You okay?” Koth asked.  “No” replied Arion.  His leg shattered, badly wounded and feeling the effects of some planar sickness, the last captain demanded the king withdraw to find a healer.  Arion begrudging agreed.  Koth whistled and an invisible hand carried Arion.  Before he left, he looked to Koth and said, “Would you like to borrow another hammer for a few minutes?”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 10, 2021, 11:01:46 PM

Quote from: Windblade on February 10, 2021, 11:15:15 AM

Any one know what was in the case that was traded to collector which sealed the deal of selling our soul to the devil or more precisely the slaad.

No clue, but it must be valuable. Here's an estimate of total value of the trade:

- 12 giant bane weapons = 8k ea (assuming +1 giant bane) = 96k
- 11 fire resisting shields  = 19k ea (assuming +1 shield of fire resist) = 209k
- 10 winged boots = 16k ea = 160k
- 9 beads of force = 3k ea = 27k
- 8 bracers of spell resistance = 90k ea (assuming same as mantle of SR) = 720k
- 7 gloves of rock throwing = 1.4k ea (assuming same as bag of boulders) = 9.8k
- 6 cloaks of displacement = 24k ea = 144k
- 5 regenerating amulets = 90k ea (assuming same as ring of regen) = 450k
- 4 staffs of frost = 56.25k ea = 225k
- 3 helms of true seeing = 75k (assuming same as gem of true seeing) = 225k
- 2 rings of spell turning = 98.28k ea = 196.56k

Estimated market price of items = ~2.5MM gc

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 11:30:08 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 16

Harrick and his undead held the east as easily as any group.  The one giant column that attacked them was perplexed and was content to throw boulders and spears.  For his part, on the other side of the mountain, mostly out of sight and contributing by keeping several hundred giants and fiends occupied, he was content that this was sufficient.  He sailed around on his wings of flesh, looking for a dead giant to raise and set against its former allies.  His vampires would gang up on a giant and force the others to kill their comrade from he turned on them.

Among the tinkers, the elves, and the ice gnomes, the giants and fiends were met with a match.  Prepared for both, each had guardians in good number and were bolstered by an air force of planes, dragons, and fey.  The Vishtoo advanced faster than any of those groups.  After Darkwind left their side, Bezeded S'z't surged forward.  Nothing the fiends or giants had was a good counter to them.  What’s more, they were joined by Haas and Valizar.  Swatting away boulders from above, they were the first to reach an entrance.  Taking cover, as per the plan, they waiting.

Dourvan’s calculations were almost visible around his head.  He conducting his symphony and was directing a masterpiece.  Arion arrived shortly after and he breathed, something he did not need to do.  “It will not be you.  I thought fate would deliver a great irony to us if you defeated an avatar in a fiery mountain.”  Arion slumped a bit and asked to be healed.
Juhutimose asked, “Not he who what?” but Dourvan did not respond.

Across the battlefield, the giants were losing, the fiends were being destroyed.  The cost was high.  Knights and guardians, nomad lords, and many soldiers of all types were dead.  Dash appeared in his human form near the command, which was now the muster point for the wounded and was becoming more populated by the minute.  “Kitino is dead”, he said woefully.  The death of one of the dragons was no less of a tragedy than the death of any soldier, but the loss of one of the most powerful pieces on the field was disheartening.

Solaris arrived next, holding in his arms a broken man.  “Raygen is dead.  I cannot revive him now.”  He laid the liberator respectfully on the ground.  Dourvan began to comment, and had he been a full deity, the instinct to hold the decidedly calculated comment would have been gone.  But that last bit of mortality held his tongue and instead he said, “not in vain, the elves have reached an entrance.”

Second to a cave, prince Dedaryl and his elves, accompanied by Knot had reached a cave.  Their guardians either dead of fighting fiends, their fey distracting the remaining giants.  They now waiting for a signal to enter.  Two tinker golems arrived next, accompanied by two dozen minders and tinkers.  The ice gnomes had rejoined Koth and made their way to a cave.  The Icefian, now lead by Alara Gemblade made it as well.  All the forces numbered fewer then a third their original strength.  But they made it.  At a separate entrance, three figures landed, one carried by the other two: Solaris, Darkwind, and Saren.

The fey launched off green flares to signal the next phase.  The planes, long circling and not involved dove down.  Now loaded with white oozes and holy water bombs, they unleashed a torrent of pain upon the fire giants and fiends that caused shrieks for miles.  Only the planar giants remained unharmed and the fifty or so still on the slopes were gathering to make their way against one of the groups about to enter.  The closed in on the Icefians, whether by chance or design unknown.  The Icefian artillery readied to fire, but rolling balls of fire and spells of wood warping sprang up all around.  “Iottians in the field!” the call rang out.  Forced to leave Dourvan, Ajax and the Trio of Gold went to aid the engineers.  Valen turned to Arion and asked, “If you want to join them, I can make that happen.  It won’t be quite the regeneration or heal you are used to though.”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 11:31:03 PM

Quote from: Hero on February 10, 2021, 11:01:46 PM

No clue, but it must be valuable. Here's an estimate of total value of the trade:

- 12 giant bane weapons = 8k ea (assuming +1 giant bane) = 96k
- 11 fire resisting shields  = 19k ea (assuming +1 shield of fire resist) = 209k
- 10 winged boots = 16k ea = 160k
- 9 beads of force = 3k ea = 27k
- 8 bracers of spell resistance = 90k ea (assuming same as mantle of SR) = 720k
- 7 gloves of rock throwing = 1.4k ea (assuming same as bag of boulders) = 9.8k
- 6 cloaks of displacement = 24k ea = 144k
- 5 regenerating amulets = 90k ea (assuming same as ring of regen) = 450k
- 4 staffs of frost = 56.25k ea = 225k
- 3 helms of true seeing = 75k (assuming same as gem of true seeing) = 225k
- 2 rings of spell turning = 98.28k ea = 196.56k

Estimated market price of items = ~2.5MM gc

Love it

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 10, 2021, 11:36:08 PM

Quote from: Hero on February 10, 2021, 11:01:46 PM

No clue, but it must be valuable. Here's an estimate of total value of the trade:

- 12 giant bane weapons = 8k ea (assuming +1 giant bane) = 96k
- 11 fire resisting shields  = 19k ea (assuming +1 shield of fire resist) = 209k
- 10 winged boots = 16k ea = 160k
- 9 beads of force = 3k ea = 27k
- 8 bracers of spell resistance = 90k ea (assuming same as mantle of SR) = 720k
- 7 gloves of rock throwing = 1.4k ea (assuming same as bag of boulders) = 9.8k
- 6 cloaks of displacement = 24k ea = 144k
- 5 regenerating amulets = 90k ea (assuming same as ring of regen) = 450k
- 4 staffs of frost = 56.25k ea = 225k
- 3 helms of true seeing = 75k (assuming same as gem of true seeing) = 225k
- 2 rings of spell turning = 98.28k ea = 196.56k

Estimated market price of items = ~2.5MM gc

I just picture Natsu with an abacus, wondering what The Collector and Malchia were thinking.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 11:59:56 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 17

Those at the caves were left with a choice, and Dourvan in his wisdom had prepared them for such an event.  The orders were clear: defeat Sutyr.  But these planar giants were a huge threat and one that none of the allies had yet demonstrated could be handled.  But there were more pieces coming to their aid.  Gales, Solaris’ companion was on the field.  As were a myriad of clerics of Hemator he had brought.  They were able to help those at the entrances recoup and Gales allowed them to communicate.  Haas was the first to think of it, and the others may never have considered.  “See if the undead have any luck against them.”  Gales did not want to, but he delivered the message to Harrick.

“I thought we’d get out of this easy.” he commented as Gales left.  Having not yet spent any energy, and having lost none of his host, Harrick moved quickly to the other side of the mountain.  The giants that had been shadowing him fell back.  Reaching the planar creatures as they got to within two hundred feet of the Icefians, they dove into battle.  A shadow and cloud followed above them.  Negative energy swirled around the fight.  Alara wanted to see none of it, she signaled her sprite signaler and he launched a blue flare.  At each entrance, a lead box was produced and inside each was buckler.  The leader of each group strapped in to their arm and called the charge into the mountain.

The next to last defense were the Iottians.  Confused and weakened, they still numbered in the hundreds.  But Dourvan knew their limitations.  The tunnels were wide enough for a giant, but still offered a kill box for any competent spellcaster.  The Iottians began to unleash spells.  But they did not work.  Spell after spell faded against bubbles of Invulnerability.  The allies rushed in from all sides.  Barreling down the tunnels, they dispatched any Iottian they saw.  Elementals that got in their way were a slightly bigger problem, but still they advanced.

Down tunnels they went and the heat was such that their sense warped from it.  The tunnels lead to a massive chamber.  A temple meant for giants.  A circular room with benches lining the walls for rows and rows.  A pit of fire in the center of the floor and straddling it a fifty-foot black skinned red-haired giant.  Wearing bronze armor and holding a black sword of stone coated in fire.  The commanders, startled by the presence so quickly yelled for the soldiers to withdraw.  Solaris had sensed the strange change in space but could not warn the others in time.  They were still on the plane, but the distance had ben changed, likely to trick them.  With an unholy word, dozens dropped dead.  Many other were blinded, or deafened. 
The giant made no other moves as elementals filled the room.  Seeing each other from across the room, the remaining heroes counted their number.  Solaris, Darkwind, Saren, Haas, Valizar, Bezeded S'z't, a tinker golem, Dedaryl, Knot, Kvan, Koth, Garanuf Frozensky, and Alara.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 12:03:52 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 10, 2021, 11:59:56 PM

Solaris, Darkwind, Saren, Haas, Valizar, Bezeded S'z't, a tinker golem, Dedaryl, Knot, Kvan, Koth, Garanuf Frozensky, and Alara.

Wagers on who survives this? 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 11, 2021, 12:56:27 AM

Solaris, Haas, Bezeded and Garanuff

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 11, 2021, 08:53:07 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 12:03:52 AM

Wagers on who survives this?

Harrick asks you to define "survive"

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 11, 2021, 08:54:57 AM

Can you say Death Knight Solar.  Haha.

If Harrick was on that list.  I would have added him.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 11, 2021, 09:02:45 AM

I think all the remaining heroes will survive at first, but Sutyr's avatar won't go quietly.  Once he knows defeat is imminent, that's when Ajax's prophecy will be fulfilled and the entire mountain will erupt and cover the land in liquid hot magma.  Much like Pompeii, the surrounding region will be covered in ash, lava, and eventually solid stone where the heroes' bodies will be forever preserved in their final superhero poses.  From that time forward, it will no longer be a palace of evil, but a sacred monument to the last stand of the coalition of triumphant heroes.     

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 11, 2021, 09:28:33 AM

Quote from: Malchia on February 11, 2021, 09:02:45 AM

I think all the remaining heroes will survive at first, but Sutyr's avatar won't go quietly.  Once he knows defeat is imminent, that's when Ajax's prophecy will be fulfilled and the entire mountain will erupt and cover the land in liquid hot magma.  Much like Pompeii, the surrounding region will be covered in ash, lava, and eventually solid stone where the heroes' bodies will be forever preserved in their final superhero poses.  From that time forward, it will no longer be a palace of evil, but a sacred monument to the last stand of the coalition of triumphant heroes.   

Nice Idea -- I see Harrick being carried away form the hot magma in the arms of giant skeletons as they are slowly eroded away by the magma, getting shorter and shorter as their massive bones are turned to ash.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 11, 2021, 09:34:15 AM

I’ll be disappointed if Koth survives this. What better way for a raging Liberator to go out? Old age would be disgraceful.

Also pretty sure that when Sutyr is defeated, Harrick will swoop in and ingest/inhale/insert into himself whatever remains of the avatar’s corpse to bolster Vestillion’s claim as patron of fire. The surge of power ultimately leads to his assault against humanity on the day of the red sky on the Plateau in 816.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on February 11, 2021, 09:43:01 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 12:03:52 AM

Wagers on who survives this?

Solaris, Haas, Valizar (minus another appendage), and Alara.  Everyone else makes heroic sacrifices to thin the elemental ranks and get Sutyr into a position to be boxed in by those final four and ultimately defeated...

...by the arrow that Ash fired at the beginning of the assault.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 10:34:12 AM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 18

“What is taking so long?  They should either be dead or have won by now.” commented Emenses.  In the fields around the mountain where the battle had changed dramatically.  Since the groups had entered the mountain as Harrick and the undead engaged the planar giants.  The Iottians had all but destroyed the artillery.  Ajax and the others had limited the deaths to only a handful.  More Iottians and some of those that had gone into the mountain had come out of it.  All over, a break had emerged and new plans were being drawn.

Arion, now with a crutch, watched out over the field.  Annoyed that he was not with most of the other leaders, he was comforted that Ajax was here, as well as Lukius.  The Trio of Gold and Valen were no comfort.  “What do you see?” he asked Dourvan.  “Our enemies are in the ground between, on the slopes of the mountain.  We are mostly gathered here, between the artillery and the trenches, and then closer to the summit.  The planes are refueling and rearming, our artillery is broken.  Their artillery is coming back into play.  Our large allies had destroyed the pieces on this side on the mountain, but they are bringing more to bare and Soar cannot engage them alone.”  The dwarf, unchanged from the first moment he began again gathered himself and recalled he was in the company of mortals.  “We have suffered losses.  Of the forces we brought, only the planes are at more than half strength.  Perhaps when the archons of Peace give a report, it might not be a harsh.” He motioned to the north where the archons were collecting the wounded.  “There is only one functioning golem not in the mountain.  The Fey are almost all gone, but many have fled and are not dead.  The vishtoo suffered badly, their lack of organization hurt them.  The Icefians are a fraction as well, having been a target.  The ice gnomes faired well in their trenches, but even they have half their strength.  The elves are the same.  Harrick’s force remains the strongest among our allies.”  The thought sickened Ajax and Arion, because they had to be happy that there remained an strong ally.

“Of our enemies, the elementals were fewer than we anticipated and we must have dealt them a huge blow when the attacked.  The Giants are at near half strength and are regrouping both on the slopes and in the mountain.  The fiends have been decimated.  I don’t think one in ten remain.  It’s the planar giants and their ilk that are the problem.  They have not responded to attacks in the same way.  Only Harrick’s force gave them pause once the Vishtoo and Haas entered the mountain.”  Those assembled weren’t sure what all of that meant in the grand scheme.  Emenses asked, “So what does that mean?” Dourvan turned to desert elf, who unlike almost everyone else seemed unphased and as if he had not seen battle today, “To answer the first, it means that planar forces are active in the mountain and time is stretched.  To the second, we can still win.”

From his spot on the slopes, Harrick watched and waited.  He spoke confidently to the creatures around him, of how they represented themselves well and were showing the world their value.  Stragglers of the other groups had neared them for protection.  In the minutes, beautiful vampiric woman with elven blood began to speak to the stragglers of the joys of eternal life.  Elicana, brought smiles to Harrick in so many ways, and now was no different.  He already had several of those that had died on the field lined up to take the plunge into eternal life.  Those that refused served him as well.  Ten giant zombies now guarded the flanks.  Several wights stood between the planar giants and them.

Elsewhere, Spaz was collecting fey from where ever he could find, trying to rally them and get ready for what Dourvan told him would be another wave of fighting.  He was the first to sense a change.  Spaz heard cries of pain and calls to flee.  All manner of flares were lit.  One fey commented that it was the victory celebration before being crushed.

“The queen is on the board.” Khenmet said loud enough for everyone at the base camp to hear.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 10:35:05 AM

Quote from: Valdis on February 11, 2021, 09:43:01 AM

Solaris, Haas, Valizar (minus another appendage), and Alara. 

minus another appendage, nice.

You are all missing one that has been noted in story previously to survive this.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 11, 2021, 10:42:34 AM

If Solaris really is a Solar I won’t be surprised if he survives, but I won’t be surprised if he “sacrificed” himself, as it just means no Habololy for a while. Same for Darkwind.

Of the mortals I’m going Haas, Valizar and Alara.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 11, 2021, 10:48:53 AM

As far as Ajax could tell Solaris is an actual Solar.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 11, 2021, 11:12:34 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 10:35:05 AM

You are all missing one that has been noted in story previously to survive this.

Saren

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 11:27:31 AM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 19

Arion reached by instinct to his back.  He found not a hilt but a handle.  He cursed under his breath.  Commander Gnorsendar, who had made it back to the camp with the help of the archons, looked to Dourvan, “You planned for this….right?”

“One minute.  Survive one minute.” was the response.

“Want that new leg yet?” Valen asked Arion again.  He began to consider the offer, shook it off and retorted, “Get your creepy fake orc child hands off me. Where is Michael? Lukius? Haas? Would someone swap out a prayer please?”

Gnorsendar answering his prayer, holding up the leg of a destroyed golem.  “Only take me a minute to get this working for you?”

Conducting again, Dourvan moved the allies into place.  Lukius, quiet until now, called on his patron.  Dampened and slowing the field spell after spell to stall and delay the field erupted.  Winds and mud, slowed time and dimensional anchoring spells to dampen magic and disrupt communication.  The Trio of Gold took note and joined into the effort.

Half a minute had elapsed when their spells were all but wiped away.  Standing in the field, now visible, between the camp and the gathered giants, in all her glory, the Marshall of Iott, Lyla.  Surrounded by a guard of thirty identical Iottians.  The shadowy cloud that had covered Harrick and his undead dissipated.  The ice gnome trenches, cooled to allow them to work better, lost their climate.  Winds sprang up to block the elven arrows.  The fey appeared from their invisibility. 

Echoing across the field, the melodious voice rang out, “I am not I your trap Dourvan!  You are in mine!  When I kill you, I will be the deity!  Charge!”  The giants races up the mountain, the Iottians raced towards Dourvan.

His friends were melting, burning.  The hideous sun, the vile Lyla.  Worse yet, Harrick stood alone among the allies between the caves and the charging giants.  Those that had assembled near him were peons.  No Ajax or Koth or their like were among them.  “No fear, those that believe in Vestilion never die!”  Set for the attack and still guided by Dourvan’s planning Harrick rallying the collection into a defense.

Ajax stood foremost with the defenders of Dourvan.  For their part, the Trio did not flee, but did head towards the rear.  They heard Dourvan begin a countdown and Ajax began to pray.  He wondered if this would be the last time he would be able.  Lyla and the Iottians slowed and cast.  Summoned creatures appeared around them.  In a trained routine that could not be matched, they cast spells together in ways that worked even in the days of weakened magic.  Sorcerers all, the loss of spells midday meant less to them.

The timing of the deity proved better than Lyla’s.  Moment before they struck, another gate opened in front of the group.  Out walked Escalon and with him came Michael, the two warriors of the Iron Tower, Cynias Cuath general of the guardians, Arin the Feyson.  At the same moment, Soar and the remaining planes dove out of the sky towards the charging giants.  Lyla’s shock was evident, she had not seen this, she had not been warned, someone would pay for their failure.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 11:28:04 AM

Quote from: Windblade on February 11, 2021, 10:48:53 AM

As far as Ajax could tell Solaris is an actual Solar.

Yes

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 11:51:16 AM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 20

All the planes could do was take one run.  For almost the entire battle, the dragons had remained hidden so as to not disrupt the allies, who would have been far more effected that the elementals and planar creatures by their presence.  But invisibility had ben eliminated and now she was in all her glory for everyone to see.  Wings that spread for 100 yards, the mighty yellow dragon had lived for nearly 1,000 years and not seen a fight like this.  Long a scout for the Draconic Isle, she was told never to engage, only report.  It was a lonely life.  Her kind could stay aloft for weeks if not months on end.  It was a blessing and a curse when one was not a traditional follower of Lakius.  Others of her kind had often taken to role of hermit, solitary traveler.  Soar had not, she longer to be among others.  Her best friend in those years was the equally cursed Rico, but even he had fought a friend.  She was the first to volunteer, and being able to fly faster and start nearer have her the nod.  Now here she was, about to defend tinkers and undead.  Maybe she should go back to being alone.

Letting the planes attack first, she slowed every so slightly.  Their run was well designed and executed to near perfection.  Admiral Gneeledbit led the attack aboard the largest one of the planes, the Lylaslutnhor V.  Gnomes in the wings cranked away, discharging bolt after bolt from four heavy repeating crossbows.  Elemental lightning struck out from rods, and every bomb remained was dropped.  A third of the planes did not survive the run and those that did fled away, unable to handle the sight of the dragon.  Luckily, many of the giants were similarly affected.  Soar dropped two just above the giants.  Unfurling a spiked ball at the end of a chain attached to her tail, she swung it around, out of reach of the giants and smashing the mercilessly.  Any that took flight and neared her claws were treated to an array of wounding cuts from the not often used for walking talons.  If she survived this, Soar thought, she would definitely travel the world more, such interesting things happened behind the sea.

Harrick watched confused.  What madness has brought tinkers and a wyrm to aid him?  This might be the end of the world.  Brandishing his flaming sword, he rushed into the now disorganized giants.  All of the forces near him that had not fled at the sight of the dragon went with him.  If Harrick survived this, gloating would be on the menu for a century.  If he didn’t survive this, he would finally have the full glory of Vestilion. Win, win.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 01:34:48 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 21

The battle at the camp started well for Dourvan and the enemies of Sutyr.  They had grabbed the initiative with the appearance of Escalon and the others.  Lyla and the Iottians had to adjust and in that time, three of them were killed.

“No, regeneration is NOT on the list of things I prepare when expecting to fight an avatar!” Michael yelled.  “Perhaps if you died, I do have a revivify ready.”

Kagetora Uso and Kaiu Tingsho were the first to drive into the Iottians.  Fearless and thinking they had a compete understanding of what was happening, its was they that killed those first Iottians.  With Lyla in their sights, they sought to end the ordeal quickly.  Kaiu, the battle wizard, knew exactly what his opponents were.  More than anyone else on the field, he had used their same tactics.  He neared Lyla, his blade touching her for a moment.  The response was dramatic.  A cacophony of spells and reactions came from not just Lyla but a number of the Iottian guard.  Spells not designed to protect themselves, but rather protect Lyla.  Kaiu was overwhelmed by the reactive spells and vanished.  Kagetora’s fury intensified, but having survived his initial assault the remaining Iottians were able to defend against his attacks.

Escalon led the next advance into the Iottians.  Rarely seen in his full regalia, Escalon moved with grace and ease that few could match.  Bare-chested and carrying little, he was emblazed with a roaring lion tattoo on his chest, matching the lion on the shield on his back.  Knives out, he darted in between the Iottians, allowed them no retort.  Michael, Ajax, and Cynias moved into them as well.  Moving as if they had been together for decades, guided by Dourvan, the joined Kagetora.  Forming a diamond, they drew the attention of most of the Iottians.  Not to be left out, Arion was finally able to get moving after one of the Trio summoned a mount for him.  He didn’t care that it was a camel.  His ride lasted seconds before the camel disappeared.

“By all the Counsel!  A mount, my kingdom for a mount!”

“I won’t take that literally, but let me help.” Valen walked up next to him in the form of a strange beast that Arion had heard of in some long ago tales.  He had not believed if they were true, and just because Valen had taken the form of the beast did not mean they were.  With the head of a vulture and the body of a mighty lion, it was all at once regal and disturbing.  Disgruntled, but with no choice, he mounted the lion and the lept into the Iottians.

The Iottians were well trained and expertly prepared.  Their distances perfect, Escalon could not cut into many with every pass.  It soon became clear he would need to kill one at a time, which would open him up to responses.  He preferred to race in between, wounding many each round.

Spells of every type whisked around the battle.  The majority would do nothing, but in such number eventually one would affect an ally.  Arin was the first.  He raced away from the battle, calling out in a fey language.  Everyone had a weak spot, and Lyla knew how to find them.  Escalon was her first target, as she was his.  Reaching her, he was far more than she could handle in a fight.  Again, and again, spells prevented a devastating blow from landing.  The other had moved away to prevent his movement from allowing him to engage them as well as her.  Just as the other began to succeed, Lyla found the answer.  Escalon began to sneeze, hiccup, cough.  His movement thrown off, his attacks disrupted, he stumbled and blinked.  Lyla flashed away from him as he tried to recover and find her.

With half the Iottians left, Lyla moved back into command.  Ajax collapsed as he was cut off from divine power.  Michael was turned to stone.  Kagetora continued to fight, but was two Iottians kept him at a distance.  Ten Iottians and Lyla now faced Cynias and Arion atop Valen.  Behind them, Dourvan stood.  The others, Lukiusm the trio and the gnomish commander found themselves in a desperate fight against more summoned creatures.  Escalon inched his way back as if a child on his first voyage in a storm.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 11, 2021, 01:40:14 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 01:34:48 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 21
tive spells and vanished.  Kagetora’s fury intensified, but haven’t survived weathered his initial assault the remaining Iottians were able to defend against his attacks.

“By all the Counsel!  A mount, my kingdom for a mount!”

“I won’t take that literally, but let me help.” Valen walked up next to him in the form of a strange beast that Arion had heard of in some long tales.  He had not believed if they were true, and just because Valen had taken the form did not mean they were.  With the head of a vulture and the body of a mighty lion.  Disgruntled, but with no choice, he mounted the lion and the left into the Iottians.

Huge bonus XP for this call back

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 02:11:16 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 22

In the temple, the avatar of Sutyr smiled and waited.  Standing thirty feet tall, the only thing his foes thought would be to their advantage was that they could all attack him together at once.  Elementals swarmed the room and rushed towards them.  How many would they have to fight through before the got to him?  Having all been made at least resistance to fire, it was more that the elementals got in the way than hurt them.  Haas and Solaris began to pray as the others battled.  Related to a role he never wanted; Haas was the party caster again.  Solaris did not enjoy the role either, and for the first time called down the powers now granted to him from the upper planes.  Light roared in, portal opened, fire was quenched, and it even rained a bit.  Darkwind helped as he could, using blessing to quickly deal with the elementals.  The others swung away, in a sign a of desperation and haste; for they did not know how long before reinforcements might arrive, and they waged when they did, it would not be for them.

How many elementals they dealt with only Dourvan might know.  When the fires cleared, Sutyr remained, still smiling, unharmed and unspent, sword in hand.  Reaching into the fiery pit below him, he pulled forth a molten boulder.  He hurled it towards the ledge with Haas, the ten-foot mass enough to crush any of them.  Bezeded S'z't, sporting the gloves of rock throwing, stepped in front and caught the orb.  Even at that, it drove him into the wall.  It was not the last orb.  Every few seconds, another one flew from the pit.  No longer thrown by Sutyr, but directed by him.

Calling to all the gods of light, Saren gave the command to charge, not beholden to any power, his cry echoed through them all, emboldening them with energy from a source most were not accustomed to feeling.  With the cry came a flash of light down from the ceiling and through the dark smoke, which is had not yet occurred to them did not emanate from the pit and out of the mountain.  Dash entered the room holding the Gemblade, which he delivered to Alara to the delight of Darkwind and Garanuf.  Flying and leaping, the heroes rushed towards Sutyr.  Dedaryl, Knot and Garanuf remained on the ledges, choosing their bows over a charge.  They were on only ones spared the mighty swipe of the great black fiery sword.  Every one of the felt pain.  No holy resistance or divine blessing or arcane spell or natural toughness could defend against it.  If it did not burn, it cut; if it did not cut it launched against a wall.

It seemed Darkwind was the prime target of the attack and he took it the worst.  To be in the presence of the avatar of Sutyr was a frightening thing.  To be his target was to be marked for certain death.  Everyone present launched attacks into the giant.  Most did nothing.  But his attack was devastating.  Platinum skin that was immune to fire was cut and burned.  His deft parries were overwhelmed by the might of the avatar’s blows.  As quickly as he had dropped into the fight, Darkwind was banished from the plane.  The laugher was unnerving, made more so by the fact that it was occurring as the heroes delivered redounding blows from all angles.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 02:43:47 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 23

To the surprise of any present who looked, after the tinker golem was struck, they could see a gnome stuffed inside of it.  Angry and moving a lot, he appeared to be trying to fic the golem that and be damaged by the swing.  Kvan was not as lucky.  The ice gnome had lost an arm in the attack.  He gathered his shield which had protected him from the fire and was forced to let his pick drop to the ground lest the heat overwhelm him.  Dash, swooped in and grabbed the gnome, getting him to a ledge.

The avatar turned next to Alara.  “I know the weapon; it will be a find trophy.”  She for a moment wished it had not been delivered to her.  His swing again leveled everyone in the room. But the brunt of the attack was born by Alara.  Perhaps the first hint of surprise shown up the face of Sutyr at that moment when she didn’t die.  Her face showed more surprise.  But anguish in the yell from nearby gave a hint of what happened.  Solaris clutched his chest.

Since arriving for the battle, Solaris had defeated a dozen fiends and some giants.  He had held off the planar creatures and healed the mass of soldiers.  Now, he had thought to smite the avatar in the name of Hemator.  Presented with it now, he knew that could not be his role.  Hemator the healer, he prayed for blessing not to help himself, but to save those around him.  Able to heal himself faster then others, he took on the attacks for them.  Enduring tremendous pain, he prayed again to be healed and he was.  As the others struck blow after blow, he absorbed them.  It was dizzying.

At first Sutyr was amused by the agony of the Solaris.  It only made the entertainment of these moments linger.  One of the boulders smashed Dedaryl ledge and he was either buried of cut off from the fight.  There was no such ambiguity for Garanuf.  The boulder that hit him fell into the temple with his burning body crushed against it.  Solaris winced as the dwarf had not been close enough to help.  The humor had its limits.  The gemblade’s cuts hurt.  “Enough!” Moving faster than any of them, his sword changed directions and cut directly into Solaris.

He thought he was gone, but a sudden breath brought him back to consciousness.  Over him stood Alara, battered and cut and looking as bad as him.  “Can you hear me?  The avatar has cursed you.  Saren says that if you are destroyed here, it is forever.  You have to go.”  He cleared his eyes and looked.  The Avatar was in the clutches of a giant at least his size, one that looked like Haas.  At his legs, Koth and Valizar held him back.  Bezeded S'z't stood in front of Solaris, catching the boulders as best he could.  Solaris tried to teleport, to no avail.  He went to fly, but his wings were torn.  Dash flew to grab him, and was met with a boulder.

Saren slid towards the two.  “The pit, it’s a portal.  But its not a lower planar one.  Even if you die there, you won’t be destroyed.”  Elementals had begun to reappear in the area as well as a giant or two that came into the temple from the now opened doors.  Saren rushed to hold them off as Alara helped Solaris to the pit.  Had he been fully aware, Solaris would have refused.  This would have been a worthy death.  But concussed by an avatar, he followed the words of two he knew he could trust.  Alara got him to the edge.  “Don’t worry, its we’ll find you.  Thank y….” With a roar and effort that can only be mustered by a god, Sutyr boke the hold and surged forth.  His finger hit Alara, pushing her into the pit, Solaris with her.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 11, 2021, 03:06:02 PM

Sutyr’s List:

Darkwind (30+HD, fire immune Planetar)
Garanuf Frozensky (giant slayer/guardian)
Solaris (Solar!!)
Alara Gemblade (KOWS captain, armed with the Gemblade!)

Haas, this isn’t going well.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 03:10:50 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 24

Saren felt a strange wave come over him.  He had not seen Solaris and Alara fall into the pit.  What he knew was the portal was closed.  He did not know how or why, but he felt better.  A weight on his mind was lifted and he fought with new vigor against the giants and elementals.  If only there was someone else here, it was a bit much to fend them all off by himself.  His relief came in the form of the last golem.  Clanking over toward him, the gnome inside was far better suited for this fight.  The engines opened and began to absorb elementals.  The giants’ strength meant nothing against the Giant Killer golems.  It was a near perfect fit for the situation.

Knot had never had a better time of it.  Treated to meals, respected and befriended over the past months, he could ask for little more.  He had even spent time with Ajax, who he had met longer ago than anyone else he knew.  By his generous count, twenty giants had been killed by him on the sloped.  More than one a minute.  Now, the god of slavery and giants stood before him.  Marvelous.  He didn’t care that he was using magic items, because the defeat of Sutyr also meant magic would be defeated!  Glory, Glory, Borkonlueai!  The other archers were gone, which meant that by his telling all one hundred arrows now sticking in Sutyr were fired by him.

It did get a bit concerning when the two fell into the pit.  Sutyr was still there and more than half of the allies he came in with were gone.  The stupid statue was playing with elementals, but at least Saren was still alive.  Good that he was fighting the normal giants.  Poor guy would have wet his pants standing toe to toe with Sutyr.  But he was fun, and always helped get into the comfortable inns with the good food.  Luckily, Knot would think and put arrows on target at the same time.  But now he was out of arrows.

“I am Knot, slayer of gods!  Fear me!” he leaped off the ledge and to the floor in a charge.

Haas, Valizar, Koth and Bezeded S'z't surrounded the momentarily disoriented avatar.  In that sort time, they were pounding away, starting to take a toll on him.  To the mix, Knot rushed in a rage.  Wielding two giant bane weapons he leaped using Bezeded S'z't as a step to the waist of Sutyr.  Catching the giant’s belt, he raged, tearing at the hip and getting in between the plates of armor.  The pain of the attacks surprised Sutyr and jolted him back.  Dropping the short sword, Knot grabbed the his hekuta in both hands and swung low, hoping to make sure the giant was disfigured even in death.  Giving him the Borkon.  It did not work, armor turned the attack aside.

Another mighty swing drove the others back and Sutyr grabbed Knot.  Roaring all the way and calling for gory and vengeance and heroic tales to be told, Knot went down the gullet of the avatar, into a stomach of lava.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 11, 2021, 03:12:06 PM

Quote from: whitesword on February 11, 2021, 03:06:02 PM

Sutyr’s List:

Darkwind (30+HD, fire immune Planetar)
Garanuf Frozensky (giant slayer/guardian)
Solaris (Solar!!)
Alara Gemblade (KOWS captain, armed with the Gemblade!)

Haas, this isn’t going well.

At least all of those are not dead.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 11, 2021, 03:15:01 PM

Sutyr’s List:

Darkwind (30+HD, fire immune Planetar)
Garanuf Frozensky (giant slayer/guardian)
Solaris (Solar!!)
Alara Gemblade (KOWS captain, armed with the Gemblade!)
Knot (deranged Bugbear berserker) (top ten all time death scene)

Haas, this (still) isn’t going well.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 11, 2021, 03:15:33 PM

Quote from: Windblade on February 11, 2021, 03:12:06 PM

At least all of those are not dead.

Yet

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Valdis on February 11, 2021, 03:16:15 PM

(https://i.gifer.com/2fHQ.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 03:32:38 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 25

“Perhaps I’ll eat you all.”  The avatar said, great sword in his hands again.

Not swinging now, the avatar began to dismantle the defenses of his opponents as they attacked.  Magic fell away and the heat of the room began to take its toll.  The heat began to heal the avatar, which despite his confidence had been hit by countless blows of epic proportion from some of the strongest mortals.

Koth’s breath grew heavy as his protections faded.  Age and heat weighed him down.  This whole battle was on borrowed time.  Every spell he had cast was to help him get through this.  Lukius had blessed him with youth for the time, and that too was now dismissed by the avatar.  Every time he swung the hammer, he needed to call upon Gnarion for strength to do any damage.  He spells used up, he flew into a rage, one he assumed would be his last.  His flurry caught the avatar by surprise.  Iron sinew in his leg bent from the hammerblows.  Like chopping down a tree, Koth tried to get the giant to his knees.  Now that Haas was normal size, none could easily reach the giant.

He new the attack would come, and Koth was now the target of Sutyr’s rage.  Together, Valizar and Bezeded S'z't held back the sword.  Fiery breath burned away Valizar and a headbutt nearly knocked Bezeded S'z't off of him.  Haas prayed for blessing in hopes of finding a way to defeat Sutyr.  Finally, the leg buckled and Sutyr dropped down.  A few more swings for Gnarion, for freedom, and Koth could end this with his last breath.

Weakened, Sutyr reached out and reopened the portal.  From it, he drew more strength.  It would only take moments.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 03:54:51 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 26

This whole battle had not been enjoyable.  Valizar smashed giants with ease.  Fiends flew away from him.  Wizards never got nearby.  His suggestions were ignored.  Even Haas told him to keep quiet.  Valizar was annoyed, and he did endless exercises.  But deep down, he knew this was best.  Haas was right. 

Once in the mountain, things got better.  Wizards got close enough to crush.  Elementals he could hit thanks to blessings.  And now, a foe worthy as any he could imagine.  Something he hit will all his might that did not fall down or crumble.  It was amazing the force with which he hit Sutyr, and yet Sutyr did not fall, at least at first.  As a team, they wrestled him to the wall.  Thanks to Koth, they got him to the ground.  The portal closing had weakened the avatar.  Trained in every grappling art there was, Valizar felt the strength again rising in the avatar.  He knew he would not be able to hold him much longer.

Stupid portal, if it hadn’t reopened…then a thought flashed into his mind.  He could not help but let out a roar.  Now in command, giving wrestling orders and summoning all his strength, Valizar had himself, Koth and Bezeded S'z't move and shift the strengthening avatar.  Raging, Koth did not ask.  Bezeded S'z't seemed content to go with whatever the plan was.

Haas called out, “Good idea Valizar!  Get him into the portal!”  He smiled, years of training and Valizar was on the right path.  There had been moments of concern, but he was thinking on his feet, not going on instinct.

Haas was right, Valizar was thinking: “Haas, go into stone, pull from other side.” Another good idea, Haas thought.  He prayed be one with the stone.  Then he saw Valizar stand up.  That’s not how I would get him into the…

With Koth and Bezeded S'z't holding him down and Sutyr laughing as he basked in the glory of the portal to be free at any moment, Valizar roared out…”Stronmous, here’s another one, then I’m coming for you!!!”

Lifting his admantium blessed foot, Valizar drove the head of the avatar into the edge of the portal, using it to cleave its skull in two.  The explosion leveled the mountain.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on February 11, 2021, 04:05:19 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 03:54:51 PM

Lifting his admantium blessed foot, Valizar drove the head of the avatar into the edge of the portal, using it to cleave its skull in two.  The explosion leveled the mountain.

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iPOi9e3K8vw/T_NtOLZXpmI/AAAAAAAAATw/frmxWs4kqCI/s1600/Curb+Stomp.JPG)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 11, 2021, 05:23:27 PM

Quote from: Malchia on February 11, 2021, 04:05:19 PM

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iPOi9e3K8vw/T_NtOLZXpmI/AAAAAAAAATw/frmxWs4kqCI/s1600/Curb+Stomp.JPG)

If that’s real, bravo and extra XP.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on February 11, 2021, 07:11:37 PM

He made it.  That is lightning  bolts text.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 08:47:52 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 27

To kill the avatar of a mighty god from another plane was quite a task.  It was not less challenging to kill a quasi deity on its own plane.  Yet Lyla was confident as she moved towards Dourvan.  She was flanked by a dozen of her elite guard and faced with only an elderly man, a hobbled king and a strange beast.  From a sheaf, she pulled a dagger that looked more like a shard of metal put onto a hilt.  “What happened to you when you are destroyed?  It’s a question even I don’t know the answer to.  I do know what happens to me though.”

He commanded the beast leave, in a voice that would have been impossible to resist had it been any normal beast.  When it did not, Lyla paused.  Her guards unleashed a barrage of missiles.  No fewer than one hundred magic bolts of energy flew from them.  It was a terrible end, not one any warrior would hope for, but Cynias crumbled.  Arion, wished for the Gemblade, but it did not appear.  Valen prayed and Arion only barely stopped himself from kicking him to act.  Another barrage came in, but they failed to reach Arion.

“What are you, so well hidden by magic?”  Starting to cast, she was interrupted by a mighty crash.  None could help but turn to see the mountain collapse to half its size.  Some on the slopes were crushed, others fled.  Screams could be heard for a mile.  A cloud of dust covered the area.  Lyla turned back and undeterred began to cast again.  Now Valen leapt forward, Arion ready to strike.  Magical tentacles reached out from several of the guard and grasped them both, dragging them to the ground before they could strike.

Dourvan stopped conducting and readied for battle.  He could not remember the last time he fought.  A small shield appeared on his arm.  He waited on the pillar, ever the tactician, wanted the high ground.  With a magic step, she was on his level.  The dagger danced as if it had a mind of its own.  Escalon, fighting to gain his balance hoped it was the dagger and not Lyla’s own skill.  Ajax clawed his way towards the fight.  The guard circled the pillar and cast spells to keep anyone out of the fight.  Walls and globes of varying types blocked the way and obscured the view.

Elsewhere, the planar giants stopped fighting and vanished.  The fire giants called a retreat and fled to the south.  Whatever fiends were left teleported elsewhere into the world.  Harrick had enough.  He collected some new allies, poor souls to rescue for their short mortal lives, and was gone before too long.  The remaining elves, gnomes, and others stumbled out of the dust, coughing until they reached clean air covered in dust, unable to do much besides gasp for breath.  Dash and Gales continued to deliver the wounded to the archons.  The last of the allies finished fighting off the summoned creatures and looked helplessly at the sphere shielding Dourvan.  Kagetora, his opponents having fled to the pillar, cut Arion loose along with Valen.  They heard the deep female voice of Soar, let them know she was near, but again, she had gone invisible so as to not cause panic.

For the moment, they could only watch, hoping for something to happen before the dagger found a crack in Dourvan’s defense, which was all he was doing.  Escalon spit out bile and phlegm enough to be understood for a moment.  “Sand”  Valen understood and realized what to do.  Changing into hulk, he dug swiftly into the ground.  Moments later, the pillar trembled and a whirlpool of sand sucked everyone in the globe down.  Lyla remained, hovering.  Beaten, yet composed, she put the dagger away and in a flash, was gone.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 09:28:07 PM

Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar part 28

Haas exited the rumble of the mountain, distraught and weary.  He could not look for Valizar or the others.  He would begin to pray once he saw what was left outside in hoped of finding them with a spell later.  He guessed the dust was from the collapse.  He picked his way to the west, occasionally finding and carrying an elf or gnome with him.  A gust of wind swept through and helped clear things a bit.  The beating of wings could be heard and Haas guessed that one of the dragons was clearing the field.  That was good news, if they were alive.

With her spell about to expire, Soar took flight and got out of sight.  She wanted to stay, but the chaos of her appearance would cause more harm than good.  Thinking to Dash to say goodbye for her, she took flight to investigate the world she had never seen before.  First, she needed to learn how to change shape.

When he could see the camp in the distance, Haas saw little else.  No fiends, no planar giants, not even fire giants were in sight.  No dragons in the sky, no archons.  It was as if the mountain’s collapse had frightened everyone away.  The soldiers that remained were walked north, to a muster point and the sight of the camp healers.  Haas walked that way too.  Those he walked with said little, no one was quite sure who had won.  On the way, he saw Dedaryl.  Long green hair a mess of dirt and blood, he asked what had happened inside after he was cut off.  Haas mumbled the tale.

The camp was sparse of healers.  None of the holy beings were here and few clerics.  Ajax was here, but he was ashen and looked very old and kneeling next to the body of Lukius.  A statue was in the camp and Haas recognizes it as Michael, the high cleric of Stasis.  The Horarians were not here either.  The only beings that seemed in good cheer at all, Haas did not to talk to, but he went to them anyway.  Sitting on a hovering carpet, the three desert elves shared glasses of wine.  When Haas neared, they raised a toast and offered him a bottle.  “We drink to each fallen ally.  Even though tomorrow we may be at each other’s throats, today we struggled together.  To whom should we drink next?”  Haas took the bottle and murmured “Valizar”.  They told him what had happened outside.

“…and Lukius was dead, dropped right at our feat.  Valen went to revive him and suddenly melted away in a puddle and scream.”  “It was terrible.” “Ajax says he died of a failed heart.”

Seeing Haas sharing the drink, other came forward and joined.  The Trio’s bottle never ran empty, and even the Vishtoo soaked it up.  The field was so quiet, that the voice of Dash, looking every bit a young human boy was striking.  “I’ve been told at times like this, you have things called bards that cause great cheer and lift dour moods.”  Haas was struck, Ajax a bit confused.  Was there not bard?  Among all these heroes and soldiers, how could not one have an instrument or know how to sing.

Admiral Gneeledbit cleared his throat.  “Not very proud of this, could have spent more time learning a trade, but…er…here goes.”  He went over to his plane, and came out with a device only a few of the gnomes had ever seen.  Two panels with a bellows in between.  “O’er the lonely plateau, ahem, mountain, many gnomes, and friends did gather.”  It was terrible at first, but drink and practice made it better.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 09:43:44 PM

And then it was done...

For several days, they searched the rubble.  The portal was gone.  Miraculously they found more survivors than expected.  Saren and the gnome in the tinker golem and sheltered under it and even though the worse for wear, the were alive.  The gnome, Jugnior, was promoted to captain on the spot.  Bezeded S'z't survived as well.  Being made of stone and immune to fire must have helped.  But Valizar and Koth did not.  Haas prepared Valizar to be taken home.  Kvan and the ice gnomes would carry Koth to his home in Palumbton.  Dash let them know that Soar said goodbye but that sadly their other ally Miril was dead.  Worse yet, they could not find the body in the rubble.

The Trio did not linger long, saying their farewells and good lucks.  The nomad lords took Renalshaw and Raygen’s bodies.  Bezeded S'z't would see his people home.  Dedaryl and the elves would make it back to the jungle.  Loading into planes, the tinkers had little trouble leaving.

As they left, Ajax watched half a dozen great leaders leave.  He thought now would be a great time for some new kings.  But the sword was gone and he was so tired.  He would return Lukius to the empire, and from there, he thought it would be nice to rest in the monastery in Kathow-tio-Horari.

Arion collected the remains of the knights.  Escalon the remains of the guardians.  More than half of each that had come to fight were dead.  Alara was missing, as was the Gemblade.  Michael was a statue.  But they had won, he hoped.

Saren was the last to leave.  He wondered what he would do now.  Iott and Sutyr defeated.  The long road he traveled should be much safer.  He never found Knot’s body, and that concerned him.  He feared the worst, and headed north, towards the Skull Keep.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 13, 2021, 07:47:15 PM

A clarification on an early part of the stories:

Vor'Ruk's re-appearances occurred ever year or so, not every few minutes, hours or days in the circle.  My intention was to imply a bigger gap in between occurrences.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 13, 2021, 09:45:47 PM

Istvan Onghwe (Zunder, Rogues)

Life in Talp was comfortable after the Borkobdof job for the guild with no name.  Istvan was not one to sit on his earnings, but with few well-paying tasks in the city and plenty of coin to keep him, that is what he did.  Occasionally the guild would call upon him, or a job outside of it would catch his eye, but they were rare.

In the years leading up to the Day Magic Broke, his swords drew blood not a dozen times.  For the elf, the years did not drain away his mortality.  There would be decades and centuries more.  When Iott's reign seemed in jeopardy, it concerned Istvan little.  When Port Talp seemed on the verge of war, he stirred a bit sensing his talents might be needed.  Kallark's ascension mollified that.

Fifteen years of little of note for the hunter still had not begun to eat at the elf when the plagues began.  This concerned him.  Word was that elves were more likely than most other races to get sick from them.  Deciding on caution and realizing there would be even less work in Port Talp, he let the guild know he was taking leave.  Istvan headed underground, to the underdark and the town of Siot.

Here, the changes to magic were not felt as strongly, and the plagues were almost nonexistent.  Life in the underdark took Istvan back to his younger days.  He learned of the battles that were taking place below.  Deivs'kari was what the drow called them.  Since the last Counsil, the deities of the underdark had been raging in a power struggle.  Upended by the arrival of Re'Alpf and the appearance of Falan's Folly, the deities of the underdark plotted are strove for more power.

Deep in the dark, the quasi deity Alarault grew to notoriety.  Dwarves that had been driven to great rage and anger and driven from their homes fled deep where magic could not go.  They used the underdark to spread around the world and speak of the terrors of magic.  They found others that had also fled Iott’s reign, retreating to one of the few places the Iottians could not reach.  Istvan took note of the growing faith and considered it a possibility if Iott continued to dominate the surface.

For the next decade, Istvan honed his skills in the dark and sold his sword to different factions.  Never taking a job too dangerous or too big, he made it look like he was not as wealthy as he was.  Time would soon come for a return to the surface.

Ranger 10

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 14, 2021, 10:33:53 AM

Couple questions/comments:

• What happened to Sutyr’s corpse?
• Did Dourvan make a reappearance in the aftermath? Last we heard of him was when the pillar of sand collapsed.
• Were plans discussed to retrieve Solaris and Alara? That’s a problem I feel like the survivors should discuss and assign a lead.
• Valizar’s Sutyr stomping foot will forever be displayed in a place of honor in the reliquary in Jaswap.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 14, 2021, 10:46:24 AM

Quote from: Hero on February 14, 2021, 10:33:53 AM

Couple questions/comments:

• What happened to Sutyr’s corpse?

No sign of it, but it would be under a mountain.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 14, 2021, 10:47:07 AM

Quote from: Hero on February 14, 2021, 10:33:53 AM

Couple questions/comments:

• Did Dourvan make a reappearance in the aftermath? Last we heard of him was when the pillar of sand collapsed.

He did reappear from the sand a soon left, his task complete

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 14, 2021, 10:49:15 AM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 14, 2021, 10:46:24 AM

No sign of it, but it would be under a mountain.

Might have seen it while we extracted Koth and Valizar.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 14, 2021, 10:58:53 AM

I think avatars just dissipate. (In this case after being stomped and blown to smithereens)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 14, 2021, 12:17:57 PM

Quote from: Hero on February 14, 2021, 10:33:53 AM

Couple questions/comments:

• Were plans discussed to retrieve Solaris and Alara? That’s a problem I feel like the survivors should discuss and assign a lead.

In the court of Whitesword

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on February 14, 2021, 02:19:14 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 11, 2021, 09:43:44 PM

And then it was done...

Dash let them know that Soar said goodbye but that sadly their other ally Miril was dead.  Worse yet, they could not find the body in the rubble.

Just noticed this. If we catch Harrick riding around on a dragon zombie...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 14, 2021, 03:38:32 PM

Quote from: Hero on February 14, 2021, 02:19:14 PM

Just noticed this. If we catch Harrick riding around on a dragon zombie...

What?!?!...no night king here...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 14, 2021, 04:05:43 PM

Quote from: Hero on February 14, 2021, 02:19:14 PM

Just noticed this. If we catch Harrick riding around on a dragon zombie...

I won't be alone, with Elicana with me!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 14, 2021, 08:09:03 PM

of the 11 PCs loosely and directoy involved in the Battle of Ila'Alnar


Win Rate ( living ) - 7/12 - 58%
Loss Rate ( dead ) 4/12 - 33%


Of course Solaris is a wild card here.. could play with either team.


RIP Knot, Koth, Valizar, and Vor'Ruk.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 14, 2021, 08:39:32 PM

Quote from: Zunder on February 14, 2021, 08:09:03 PM

of the 11 PCs loosely and directoy involved in the Battle of Ila'Alnar


Win Rate ( living ) - 7/12 - 58%
Loss Rate ( dead ) 4/12 - 33%


Of course Solaris is a wild card here.. could play with either team.


RIP Knot, Koth, Valizar, and Vor'Ruk.

Thoughts on whether the win rate for the Company of the Long Odds is higher or lower.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 14, 2021, 09:27:40 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on February 14, 2021, 08:39:32 PM

Thoughts on whether the win rate for the Company of the Long Odds is higher or lower.

186 total levels - 3 don't have levels

Razk (Terrorshard, Gnolls)	Rouge 6 / Fighter 1 / Tranch Runner 10	17
Rubius Humperdink (Part 1) (Malchia, Icefia)
(Lord, Governor,) Sir Arishimoto Udinaru (Hero, Icefia) (Part 1)
Reikbar 1st Sledgehammer (Zunder, various)	Monk 5 / Warrior of Stone 10 / Devotee 8	23
Montaron Mountainmagic (Terrorshard, Port Springs)	Cleric 13 / Master Healer 10	23
Keldan Windblade (Windblade, various)	Fighter 8 / Bard 2 / Wizard 2 / Lalakansakalpa 10 / High Master 4	26
Grant Helodan (Valdis, Tyrogatore)	Cleric 7 / Emenotan 10 / Keeper of the Arts 7	24
NPC Daane`	Bard 5/Fighter5/Silversword10/Grandmaster 7	27
Claude Greymaster III	Crafter 1/Cleric3/Alchemist 10/Ranger 2/Dragon Slayer 5	21
Acyll Edorm Fult (Whitesword, various)	Psychic Warrior 7 / Ranger 8 / Blade Lord 10	25
Dovin Coril (Whitesword, various)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on February 14, 2021, 09:41:35 PM

Since Reik doesn't use Magic items.. i'm pretty sure i'm toast.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on February 14, 2021, 11:04:22 PM

Quote from: Zunder on February 14, 2021, 09:41:35 PM

Since Reik doesn't use Magic items.. i'm pretty sure i'm toast.

Based on where the story left off, you may have another participant...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 17, 2021, 12:01:38 AM

Alara’s vision slowly cleared, but the ringing in her ears showed no sign of subsiding.  She remembered the fall onto the unyielding stone floor.  She was sure that there were others present when she came through.  There was at least a moment when the wretched presence of the avatar was gone, but just as quickly it returned.  Then there was guttural roar, followed by a shockwave and then unconsciousness. 

She sat up and without thinking, removed her helmet and cast a minor healing on herself.  It succeeded and she looked to the mithril diamond shaped power key on her belt.  It was not shining, which was comforting.  She looked around and realized she was surrounded by bodies; dozens or more.  Before she could gain her feet, she saw Solaris standing beside her, his mace in one hand and the Gemblade in the other.  In his always serene voice: “I have augmented your defenses against fire.  You have only been unconscious for a few minutes.”

She stood up and looked around.  All of the bodies were in shackles.  They were mostly dwarves; not surprising given how many were captured at Oneash.  She took the Gemblade and examined it.  There was no glimmer of light.  Whit a sigh she secured it inside her backplate and drew her own sword.  Taking another look about she said “I don’t think we are on Baator.” 
“We are not;’ Solaris replied, ‘If we were, we would be cut off from Hemator and Stasis, except for your power key.  I believe we are on the Plane of Fire.  Likely we are in a Fire Giant stronghold.  They are immune to the heat, but need air to breathe.  Fortunate, if odd.”  Looking at the dead prisoners, he said: “I think they were powering the portal.  They were slain by the blast.”

“Can you raise them?”, Alara asked, before she realized the scope of the horror.  “A few, but as we are not on a lower plane, their spirits have made their way to the powers they followed.  We should go, while we are immune to the heat, whatever spell was protecting them in life must soon expire.  Neither of us need to add that to our list of experiences.”

They made their way through the massive, rough hewn halls, finding no sign of occupants.  Symbols of Sutyr and other powers were found throughout.  Weapons and small amounts of treasure were scattered; clearly left in haste.  Along with chains; lots of chains.  “Can’t you Plane Shift us back to Habololy, or to the Mount?”, Alara asked.  “No, not out of this place.  For now at least, it is still a divine realm.”

After two careful hours, the exit beckoned.  A long ramp leading down to a “breakwater” against a sea of magma.  In the distance there were other “islands”, some floating others fixed.  As soon as Alara passed the threshold, she staggered back.  The “air” outside was nothing but smoke and soot.

As they looked out over the endless seas, two dozen creatures, with the upper bodies of humanoids and the lower half serpents, pulled themselves out of the lava.  All but one were armed with a spear or trident of glowing iron.  The exception carried an iron staff.  They cautiously slithered up the ramp and began speaking in an alien tongue.  Solaris answered, telling them that he and Alara were travelers.  The staff wielder pointed to Alara, emphatically gesturing with his staff.  “He is offering me safe passage for you and the Gemblade, which he called your ornament.  Safe to say, Stasis’ and Hemator’s reputations don’t precede us.”  Alara prepared for battle and as waves of energy began to emanate from her, the Salamanders formed a semi-circle around them.  Just as it seemed they would charge there was an explosion of smoke and ash, and a red skinned figure appeared.  Its lower half concealed in a cloud of smoke, bare chested and covered in gold and bronze jewelry, it towered twelve feet tall.

 â€œAh! My friends, very good! The sultan will be greatly relieved that you are safe.  We could not find you deep inside the fortress.”  Alara and Solaris shared a look of suspicion and confusion.  The efreet for a moment seemed completely unaware of the salamander company, but then looking about, began a stream of, what Alara was sure, was invective and profanity, in the same strange language of the salamanders.  The leader seemed prepared to press his case until the efreet drew out a massive scimitar that caused the air to hiss.  The efreet, with a gesture that clearly indicated his last best offer, pointed into the fortress, and the salamanders slithered in with no further complaint.

“Now! The sultan awaits with your advocates. I am Kerim, your humble servant. Come!”  With no way to cross the magma sea, or breathe for that matter, Alara and Solaris took the efreet’s arms.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 17, 2021, 02:33:45 PM

part 2

In a sickening cloud of brimstone, they appeared on a massive causeway. Half a mile wide, and miles end to end, it rose fifty feet or more from the magma ocean. All manner of fire creatures, including fiends, fire giants and even a red dragon, headed in each direction. Many cast a curious, even hostile, glance at them as they walked, but none approached. Karim chatted with them, mentioning that the Plane of Fire has only two powers that reside there, but Alara and Solaris could not take their eyes from the sight before them. An enormous city that blotted out the sky and horizon, sitting atop a hemisphere of brass. The city seemed impossibly dense, that the buildings were crushed against each other, but as they drew near it became clear that it was simply a trick of perspective. They passed the great bronze gates and the massive elemental guards saluted Kerim. Inside, the plaza had been cleared, and twenty mephitis, bowing and scraping to Kerim, who kicked one that moved too slowly, rolled out an enormous carpet. “Come! I would be ashamed if you did not see the City of Brass from the sky!” With all aboard the carpet soared into the air. The city was the size of a small kingdom; Hertopowlis made of brass, bronze and gold. As they flew a palace of brass and coal black stone, covered in precious stones and metals, awaited them. They alighted upon an upper entry way and were escorted through the great halls. As they walked a group of steam mephit servants cleaned them, one even re-braiding Alara’s hair.

With a theatric flourish, Kerim opened another towering set of doors to an equally gigantic throne room and proclaimed “Lady Alara, most honored Knight of the White Sword and true heir of Stasis, the Godsword, Bane of the Infernal and Enemy of the Dark Powers, and Lord Solaris, Celestial Steward of Hemator, Lady of Healing, the Redeemer of poor, foolish Habololy; I present the Lord of Flame, the Potentate Incandescent, the Tempering and Eternal Flame of Truth, the Most Puissant of Hunters, Marshall of the Order of the Fiery Heart, the Smoldering Dictator, the Crimson Firebrand, Marrake al-Sidan al-Hariq ben Lazen, Sultan of the Efreet and the City of Brass.”

Before them was another efreet, this one visible from head to toe, even more lavishly appointed and twice Kerim’s size, seated upon a throne of gold that seemed on the edge of molten. Within the hall there were also dozens of efreet, a few salamaders and an uncountable number of mephitis all working on one task or another. The efreet cast a stoic gaze upon them as they approached the throne. Alara and Solaris looked about and knew that if they were not truly guests, they would either die here or be leaving in chains.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on February 18, 2021, 11:04:36 PM

As they drew near the throne, the throng parted and Alara breathed a sigh of relief. Standing beside the throne were two men. One she did not recognize, with deep red skin, jet black hair and impossibly handsome features. He was dressed in plate armor, with a battle axe on his back and a symbol of a flaming axe on his tabard. The other she did, an unassuming man of indeterminate age, with pulled back gold hair and matching goatee. He was dressed in a simple but fine white robe, emblazoned with the rampant platinum dragon. The red skinned man came forward and kissed Solaris on both cheeks and Alara’s hand. “Greetings! It is a great honor to meet you, I am Gargal, servant of Girru.”

Before he could continue further, Kerim cleared his throat.
“My lord sultan, behold, these great warriors who, I, your most humble servant, have retrieved from the fortress of the usurper, and delivered into your most auspicious presence.”

The sultan leaned forward, and streams of molten gold dripped to the floor, where mephitis immediately scraped it up. The great efreet’s coal eyes evaluated them for a moment.
“Glad, we are that you survived your time in the fortress. You have our gratitude for defeating the usurper in battle on your world, for it weakens his foothold here. In recognition, we have turned aside every offer, and there were many of great price, to make you guests in another realm. You are fortunate to serve such respected powers, or at least,’ casting his eyes at the white robed man, ‘that your patrons have such respected mentors of their own. You are free to go. Kerim, escort them to the Parapet of Departure.”

As you depart, Gargal bowed and said: “Farewell uncle, my mother sends her love.” The sultan waved him off dismissively.
Kerim, clearly somewhat dejected, led them to a high, flat roofed tower. “Farewell. Perhaps if I am ever summoned to Habololy, I will seek you out before my time is ended.”

In a more familiar experience, though very jarring on this occasion, Gargal delivered them to the bliss of the fields of Mercuria. In the distance, Stasis’ city of Paladia could be seen and near at hand a city of similar size of white adobe crowned with orange roofs.
Gargal said: “Lord Solaris, I can also return you to Hemator’s realm, or you can go into the temple in Paladia. You are welcome here in Gillura if you wish to rest.”

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Windblade on March 02, 2021, 12:02:17 AM

I thought I responded to this. Solaris says "I can rest hear for the night and return to Hemator's realm in the morning".

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on March 09, 2021, 02:49:08 PM

Will the remainder of the fallen/vanished/surviving characters have their levels posted?  Zunder probably has a complete list, but here's my remaining characters.

Schurke
Profit
Kasai
Gneetagh (DM Whitesword)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on March 09, 2021, 09:36:04 PM

Quote from: Malchia on March 09, 2021, 02:49:08 PM

Will the remainder of the fallen/vanished/surviving characters have their levels posted?  Zunder probably has a complete list, but here's my remaining characters.

Schurke
Profit
Kasai
Gneetagh (DM Whitesword)

I just posted levels with their stories.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on March 09, 2021, 10:15:53 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on March 09, 2021, 09:36:04 PM

I just posted levels with their stories.

Wow, Profit really made something of himself.  Too bad he ended up on the wrong end of Parker's Whirlson.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on May 27, 2021, 11:10:21 AM

Harrick part 3

The second full Falanic crusade against Vestilion occurred in 812.  For years, Harrick had been bolstering the faith by 'curing' the plagued.  This insult enraged the clerics of Falan at the Bulwark to the point where they were driven to action.  A debate ensued among the clerics of Falan: wait or attack now.  Waiting would have afforded them more daylight and possibly reinforcements as they sent a call out to the world.  However, every day that went by was another that Vestilion could claim the full power of a deity and be much harder to destroy.

For years, Harrick had cultivated a reputation on the Plateau.  He was seen as helpful and liked by the poor.  He never sided with Iott and was one of the few powerful arcane spellcasters that was trusted.  Those years served him well and his plan bore some unexpected fruits.  A crusade of thousands cannot be planned in a vacuum.  Word reached Harrick that the build up was happening but the timeline was not set.  He went into action to manipulate the effort.  Guided by Vestilion, he began to make it look as if he was preparing a major event.  His agents were seen leaving Skull Keep.  Small events were staged all over the plateau.

In their enthusiasm, the leaders of the Bulwark fell into Harrick's ploy.  They saw what they wanted to believe and fit with the preconceived notions.  Against the advice of other temples off the plateau, they moved quickly.  By the 11th month of 812, they neared Skull Keep.  Full reports of the battle are not known by anyone except Harrick and the undead, who don't tell the tale.  The crusaders that survived, under a thousand of the more than three thousand that went to war, tell a mixed tale.

They attacked during the day, but dark clouds of ash blocked the sun.  The sky was as if a volcano had erupted nearby.  Having planned to earthquakes, remembering the last crusade, they have plan in place to prevent that.  The ground opened up nonetheless, and dwellers of the underdark spewed out to attack.  Promised the reward of eternal life and all the treasures the crusaders carried, hulks and drow with some other creatures laid into the crusaders.

Few undead presented themselves.  The crusaders called upon the champions of Falan, as was planned, to attack Harrick the high cleric as the crusaders dealt with the army.  The crusaders knew only that the champions did not succeed, as Harrick appeared far overhead during the battle after the champions were summoned.  Still, they pressed forward, driving the underdark forces back.  The rearguard secured the field as the rest charged into the Skull Keep.  Those that entered never exited.  After an hour, half of the rearguard made their way into the keep to see what happened.

With no sign of the champions, Harrick, or the forces of the underdark; the crusaders outside began to hope.  But there was no word from the other in the keep.  It was then that the undead attacked.  Tired, but still ready for undead, the remaining crusaders formed up defensively and fended off the assault.  Then, calls came from in the keep for reinforcements.  Victory was at hand if only a few more could get inside.  The undead did not allow it.  Two or three undead, and not skeletons or zombies, were destroyed for each crusader, but they prevented any reinforcements.

Four hours after it began, the undead pulled back.  The crusaders sent runners into the keep to see what had happened.  They returned to report the halls had collapsed and nothing could be heard.  Tired, without their top commanders, night having fallen, seemingly have beaten every enemy that had faced them, with no where to go; the remaining crusaders withdrew from the field to camp a safe distance away.  The next day, they began to march home.

Harrick remained in Skull Keep for several months.  He had survived at great cost.  For the next year, he and he forces recuperated.  The Bulwark's clerics were depleted and their reputation on the plateau and within the faith of Falan diminished even more so than before.  By 814, Harrick began to venture back out and see how his flock had managed without him.  They had done well, aided by the attention everyone gave to Iott and able to work in the shadows.

The chaos of Kallark's destruction was a great boon to recruiting.  Vestilion's stock rose in the eyes of many.  Harrick was performing services daily to grant eternal life.  And then, the opportunity arose in 815 to claim another prize.  He aided in the defeat of Sutyr.  Months later, the Counsil meeting of 816 happened, and Harrick's dream was fully realized.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on May 27, 2021, 12:01:00 PM

Day of the Red Sky

A red glow emanating from the Skull Keep and blanketing the sky for miles around let everyone know that Vestilion’s time had arrived.  The Counsil meeting of 816 was underway and Harrick and the undead that followed him were beaming with joy.  Their lord would be elevated and their eternal life would be assured.  They would be free to expand into the world as their fire of immortality burned for all to see.  It would burn the flesh off of the living and leave them warm with the feeling of immortality.  What magnificence and wonder for all.

Other saw and knew what the red sky meant.  Those that had followed the rise of Vestilion and tracked the growth of his minions did not feel the warmth of the red glow.  The ash cloud covered the sun and gave them a chill.  The fire burned away life and left nothing but soulless monsters.  Drawn to the sky by instinct, by prior knowledge, out of fear, or some greater force guiding them; these others charge to Skull Keep in one final attempt to destroy Harrick and Vestillion before it was too late.

Artemus, now more machine than gnome, had found purpose years before, but the defeat of Iott had brought him peace.  He was not around for the crusade or the attack on Grimhold, but he was home now.  The red sky called to him and he felt pangs of guilt for his absence and a sense of redemption at hand.  He gathered his things and looked for help.

He went to find Sheriff Wayne, and when he came upon him, his old friend was staring at the red sky to the north.  They looked at each other and no words were needed.  Marston left a detailed note for the other sheriffs, making sure that his last loose end would be taken care of in case he did not return.  Collecting the best items, he had acquired over the years, he put on all of his gear.  Many came to him asking what was going on as he walked out of town with Artemus.  He told them he needed to talk to an old friend and demanded they not join him.  The two left Grimhold by foot, watched by hundreds.

Finn was tending the farms as usual when he saw the red sky.  He knew what it meant and knew that only he among his flock could survive what he would now do.  He quickly penned letters and had animals and family collect his tools and equipment.  Messenger birds flew out to alert those who might help him.  Prayers were said to prepare blessings.  It took little time for him to find Marston and Artemus walking north.  The three did not move fast.

Harris did not need any more action.  He did not want any more action.  He had built the life he wanted and was king of his domain.  Unchallenged and catered to, happy and content.  The red sky brought an unwanted call.  All of those that he had protected, that had paid him taxes, that looked up to him, and spoke of his great strength and boasted how no one would dare mess with Harris now called on him.  Pride, ego, and some duty all pulled on Harris.  So, he twitched and summoned up the skills that had gotten him here.  Collecting his arms and armor, he went north.  With him, he took his retinue.

Saren had been waiting for the sign that it was time for fight again.  He had been present for many of the great battles of the past decade.  Fought in battles against a quasi-deity and a demi god.  Now it was time to face his first foe, the one-time death knight that had haunted his dreams and inspired his actions.  Now he was ready for the battle and knew that he would not be alone.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on July 04, 2021, 02:57:52 PM

Day of the Red Sky (part 2)

Others came as well to the area of the Skull Keep.  The last remnants of the faith of the Lightstalker, failed Falanic crusaders seeking redemption, and Valona representing Taivas Valtias who flew in from the north.  They hoped that the Clikinacy would send aid as well, and all indications were that they were on the way.

The gathering was not as impressive in number as the Falanic crusades.  Those assembled was less organized and not as strongly lead as that that had joined forced to defeat Sutyr.  They faced a foe that was not on the outside of the Counsil and whose destruction and banishment was sought by the religions.  They faced an emboldened enemy that as they learned had just been endorsed by the Counsil as a new member.

Immediately, as the leaders of the groups met, arguments began over who should lead.  Precious time was wasted.  Having heard stories of the Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar, many of the leaders sought to claim the role of Dourvan.  Ego drove some to think this battle could end the same way that one did, with elevation to a divine rank.  Certainly, the leaders of Falan, Taivas Valtias, and the Lightstalker believed that...and probably Harris thought it would be cool as well.

After one day of meetings a planning, Finn had finally prevailed and convinced those gathered to work together.  This could be won, and if any individual exceeded expectation to an amazingly level, perhaps the deities would grant them some boon.  It was not something Finn believed, but he sold it as best he could.  In the morning, they laid out the field of battle.  Taking lessons from the crusades, they began to craft a strategy.

Their opponent did not take time to plan.  Harrick was prepared, as he had been for some time.  As his gathered foes quarreled, he set his plans in motion.  The day was all he needed to set things as they needed to be.  He would not wait to be attacked.  The Skull Keep was not a fortress that could withstand a siege, it had not been for some time, having been bombarded by crusades.  Harrick gathered his forces, summoned his blessings, and readied an attack for the morning.  With clouds of ash protecting his eternal allies, the time of day would matter little.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 05, 2021, 09:52:01 PM

(https://media.tenor.com/images/8a61019f3dd56618f1ae66b039b9356b/tenor.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on July 05, 2021, 11:23:05 PM

(https://media.giphy.com/media/ZvGFBHVxrqola/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 06, 2021, 08:16:55 AM

(https://media.giphy.com/media/xXvIkTu08XQLC/giphy.gif)

(https://media.giphy.com/media/3oriNWeb2gzrZufbZ6/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on July 06, 2021, 06:13:37 PM

(https://media.giphy.com/media/3o6Mb7smQD0aeAwW0o/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on July 06, 2021, 08:01:39 PM

I make a motion for bonus XP to Zunder for changing his icon. And to both Zunder and Hero for this pithy dialogue.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on July 06, 2021, 08:05:13 PM

Quote from: whitesword on July 06, 2021, 08:01:39 PM

I make a motion for bonus XP to Zunder for changing his icon. And to both Zunder and Hero for this pithy dialogue.

Motion granted....Finn and Harrick both get 100,000xp

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on July 06, 2021, 08:30:35 PM

Day of the Red Sky (part 3)

The foes of Vestilion had not left themselves defenseless as they camped.  Finn and the clerics of Falan had blessed the field of battle and protected their camp from a variety of threats.  Valona circled high to keep watch on the Skull Keep.  Despite their quarrels, all wanted the mission to succeed and aided in the preparation.  When the attack came in the morning of the first day after they all met, they were nonetheless taken aback.

The ash cloud that covered the sky began to rain down at a pace they had not seen before, and with it came a roar.  Wasting no time down from the clouds flew a creature of legend, one that none of the foes of Vestilion had seen before that day.  Cried of panic rang out as alarms blared.  Prayers began in earnest.  Valona fled from the sky.  Those on the ground were forced to gather together around bastions of bravery to avoid fleeing.  A Dracolich, bones bleached, leather petrified, eyes of glowing cinder; descended towards them.

They had prepared for undead, they had expected terrors.  Only Saren, who had been at the Battle of Mount Ila'Alnar had an inkling that this might happen.  So as to not bring more problems into the camp on the first night which had not gone well, he had not brought the worst possibility to their attention.  He regretted it now, but even had he said something, the quick attack was not in anyone's plan.

The allies spent their minute wisely as the creature descended.  Every defense possible was made.  Just as it was about to engage them, it veered away.  No illusion, it had other plans.  The ash storm intensified as the caster went about protecting themselves as they tried to discern Vestilion's plan.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 06, 2021, 10:19:55 PM

(https://media.giphy.com/media/xT9IgMrxRHUbROI9VK/giphy.gif)

(https://media.giphy.com/media/3o7aD45GUpSKjULj2g/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 06, 2021, 10:40:49 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on July 06, 2021, 08:05:13 PM

Motion granted....Finn and Harrick both get 100,000xp

Wait.. Can I get my 5 levels before we start

That'll be lvl 23.  epic level spells in cleric, only 8th in wizard, but what are those good for these days.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on July 06, 2021, 11:12:23 PM

Quote from: Zunder on July 06, 2021, 10:40:49 PM

Wait.. Can I get my 5 levels before we start

That'll be lvl 25.  epic level spells in cleric, only 8th in wizard, but what are those good for these days.

I see your epic level cleric spells and raise you epic level druid spells.

(https://media.giphy.com/media/EUge7PKTnkwzm/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on July 07, 2021, 12:11:34 AM

Day of the Red Sky (part 4)

The attack by the dracolich did one service to the gathered opponents of Vestilion, it united them.  Where there had been a sense of assured victory, now there was doubt.  Where there had been competition as to who would get the kill, now there was concern about if they would win at all.  To that end, after the creature turned away, the leaders gathered.  The many heroes of Grimhold along with the head of the Valona, clerics of Falan, and the remants of Lightstalker's faith rushed to meet.  It took little time for them to settle on a commander.

Both cocksure by the choice and then a bit nervous, the veteran warrior Harris looked at the motley group assembled.  He thought about leaving.  Positioning everyone else in place, putting his contingent in the back, and sliding away seemed like a fair plan.  Then he saw the eyes of his retinue.  Many had not actually seen Harris fight.  They had come to know him by personality and reputation.  How far would he fall if he ran?  His whole fiefdom could collapse, either by a loss of confidence or perhaps even taken over by Vestilion.  With a mightily crash, he brought his hammer down and belted out commands.

Those assembled listened and moved into position just in time to meet the charge of the undead.  Several waves of mindless creatures triggered spells and ate up time and energy of the now defenders.  The intent was not to do damage, but to sap resources and time.  It was clear, but little could be done to prevent it.  As the charge ended, the dracolich flew by and strafed the allies.  One breath of fire, hurting a few and draining more spells and defense, then back into the sky it went.

A calm fell.  Minutes passed.  The ground shook.  Fire and undead hulks and drow charged out of fissures in the ground.  Prepared for such a tactic, repelling the attacks again drained spells and resources.  In the middle of the assault, the dracolich strafed them another time, fleeing as quickly as it came.  Many of these undead fled below ground before being destroyed.  Harris knocked out several Falanic crusaders who tried to give chase.  Finn closed the fissures so they could not be used again.

A half an hour passed with no other attacks. 

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 07, 2021, 08:07:41 AM

Quote from: Hero on July 06, 2021, 11:12:23 PM

I see your epic level cleric spells and raise you epic level druid spells.

(https://media.giphy.com/media/EUge7PKTnkwzm/giphy.gif)

(https://media.giphy.com/media/snrDtXJBEiZwY/giphy.gif)


What.. only divine spells.. shame.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 07, 2021, 08:17:21 AM

Harrick offers Harris a boat to command to leave  8)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on July 09, 2021, 12:04:03 PM

Day of the Red Sky (part 5)

The clerics of Falan predicted hordes of undead would come next.  Divinations told the commanders that waiting out the attacks would end in everyone's death.  Harris agreed that their position was indefensible long term.  Artemis, Marston and Saren could only do so much as individuals against a swarm.  The decision was made to find a kill the leaders.  More so than their allied force, Vestilion and the undead were more susceptible to a decapitating strike.

The debate over who should go was short.  Harris as commander and Finn as master of the field would remain outside.  Artemis, Marston and Saren, the leader of the remnant of Lightstalker's faith who called himself Lucas, the most skilled follower of Taivas Valitas without wings, and the Falanic crusader Jan would head into Skull Keep.  They would kill or drive off the leader of the religion, who they believed to be Harrick.  In the field, the others would occupy the undead and on the off chance they destroyed them all, charge in to help.

That no undead barred their entrance in the keep did not sit well with those that rushed across the field and entered.  That no traps or warding defenses sprang up was a relief and a concern.  The keep was filled with a disturbing undead presence that they could detect, but it was no where to be found.  The heat of the place was brutal and would have been overwhelming if not for their protections.  A red glow allowed them to see.  A hiss of steam could be heard constantly.

A foreboding feeling was unescapable in the keep.  Saren looked at Artemus, who turned to Marston and the other looked wary as well.  Marston murmured first, "It's a trap".  They turned a rushed out as he feeling proved correct.

Outside, Finn felt it first.  The ground rumbled, the keep shook, more ash burst from the ground.  Within moments, the skull keep which had stood for hundreds or years was gone.  The ash that spewed forth coalesced into the forms of several winged beasts.  At the foot of the wreck, beneath the beasts, a figure emerged.  Vaguely human with pounds of sagging flesh draped all around him, Harrick stood in glory.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on July 09, 2021, 12:09:45 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on July 09, 2021, 12:04:03 PM

Day of the Red Sky (part 5)
Vaguely human with pounds of sagging flesh draped all around him, Harrick stood in glory.

You know...sometimes I miss fat Harrick who struggled to breath and rode around on a skeleton bone wheelchair...

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on July 09, 2021, 12:22:34 PM

Quote from: Malchia on July 09, 2021, 12:09:45 PM

You know...sometimes I miss fat Harrick who struggled to breath and rode around on a skeleton bone wheelchair...

Should've taken him out when he first turned. Stupid Habastlian respect for life.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 09, 2021, 12:32:01 PM

you guys are just jealous of me and my girlfriend.


(https://media.giphy.com/media/IIjoGeclMedAA/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 09, 2021, 12:35:52 PM

note:  I was going to post a picture of someone with massive saggy flesh, but personally, I just ate lunch and couldn't "stomach" it.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: whitesword on July 09, 2021, 01:13:08 PM

Somewhere Ajax is really annoyed that he’s missing this.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 09, 2021, 04:53:59 PM

In honor of Ajax missing this, I searched on Glory Bolt and google rewarded me with:


(https://media.giphy.com/media/O6JIc2aWjFPBm/giphy.gif)

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on July 09, 2021, 04:56:32 PM

Quote from: Zunder on July 09, 2021, 04:53:59 PM

In honor of Ajax missing this, I searched on Glory Bolt and google rewarded me with:


(https://media.giphy.com/media/O6JIc2aWjFPBm/giphy.gif)

Nice

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on July 09, 2021, 05:57:22 PM

Day of the Red Sky (part 6)

Bellowing with joyous laughter, Harrick sent out the ash monsters forward.  The dracolich descended.  Intelligent undead of all types charged.  Beams of sunlight and holy auras flickered and lashed out and the assault.  Those that happened to catch sight from a distance were treated to a light show of hold a red that was never seen.

Finn went spell for spell with Harrick for as long as he could, but the mixture of arcane and divine proved too much.  With hope fading, he sent away his wooden allies who were all but burnt to a cider.  The animals that fought with him, burnt as well, fought doggedly nearby but eventually retreated into tunnels some of them dug to escape.  His blessings near exhausted and his options gone, Finn fell back to his last measure.  But he was too late.  A scorching toothy maw slammed shut around him and spat him out from a hundred feet.

Harris saw this and knew that the battle was over.  He called the retreat and anyone who was not a zealot followed his lead.  One crusader moved to stop and berate him.  One swing later and Harris turned him into a shield to get through the undead.  With the edge of the ash cloud near, Harris and the remaining warriors were hopeful when shadow and pain washed over them.  A female voice called to Harris.  Weakness seeped into his body.  His hammer fell to the ground and a strong soft hand grabbed his shoulder.  Fangs dug into his neck and he slowly passed into unconsciousness.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on July 09, 2021, 09:41:44 PM

Day of the Red Sky (part 6)

Harrick watched on as his friends, his allies, and his subordinates drove their enemies from the field.  They had come to deprive Vestilion's faithful of their rightful existence, and now they would either be dead or be joining them having seen the truth.  The ash burned away the last of the husk of temporary life and revealed the permanent existence that could be theirs.

Behind him, the Skull Keep was gone, crumbled having served one last service for the faith.  It was a remnant of a different time, when the eternal were seen differently, when the lord of it sought dominion and domination over the world.  That was not Vestilion's or Harrick's wish.  So it was right that fortress was gone.  A new one would be built, with a different message.  It would be glorious...

The pop that echoed out was heard across the battlefield.  The crack that was the bone of a skull was equally as loud.  A silence then covered the area, followed by howls of rage and screeches of sadness.

Marston dragged himself out of the rest of the rubble.  "I told you." he murmured.  He reloaded the one round and looked at the charging horde.  Defiantly, he yelled out, "You will get me in a rush, but I'm taking the first hundred of you with me!"  And so he did.  Firearms blazing, the undead fell over each other to reach him and fell destroyed or crumbled and bullets blew them apart.

Alone and unafraid, the old sheriff stood his ground until the were no bullets left.  Pistols turned into clubs and still he crushed them as they got to him.  It was finally too much, the dracolich's breath burned him to a point where he couldn't move.  The mistress of the keep, bride of Harrick, delivered the finale blow, having burned her face trying to give him the eternal embrace, she tore his head from body and cursed his name.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on July 09, 2021, 09:46:07 PM

Quote from: Asinjin on July 09, 2021, 09:41:44 PM

The mistress of the keep, bride of Harrick, delivered the finale blow, having burned her face trying to give him the eternal embrace, she tore his head from body and cursed his name.

R.I.P. Marston

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 09, 2021, 09:47:21 PM

Quote from: Zunder on July 09, 2021, 12:32:01 PM

you guys are just jealous of me and my girlfriend.


(https://media.giphy.com/media/IIjoGeclMedAA/giphy.gif)

  ehm.. fiancée

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 09, 2021, 09:48:23 PM

Quote from: Malchia on July 09, 2021, 09:46:07 PM

R.I.P. Marston

 R.I.P. Harrick..

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Asinjin on July 09, 2021, 10:38:44 PM

Because the events took place so close to the start of the campaigns, I am going to end the story there.  But to sum up:

- Vestilion, demi god, high temple locations unknown

- Harrick, shot through the head

- Marston, dead

- Harris, bitten by a vampire

- Finn, dead

- Saren and Artemus, buried alive

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Hero on July 11, 2021, 04:58:40 PM

I notice that Harrick's entry doesn't say "dead" like the others.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on July 11, 2021, 05:02:37 PM

Quote from: Hero on July 11, 2021, 04:58:40 PM

I notice that Harrick's entry doesn't say "dead" like the others.

Hence why I only said R.I.P. to Marston.  I'm pretty sure he's "eternal" now and we haven't seen the last of him.  Remember that he consumed the powdered dust of a deity.  That's going to bite us in the ass one day.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 11, 2021, 09:26:18 PM

Quote from: Malchia on July 11, 2021, 05:02:37 PM

Hence why I only said R.I.P. to Marston.  I'm pretty sure he's "eternal" now and we haven't seen the last of him.  Remember that he consumed the powdered dust of a deity.  That's going to bite us in the ass one day.

They only thing that bites around here is my vampire fiancee, she's probably a little pissed you guys messed up my boy-ish good looks.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 12, 2021, 02:32:41 PM

Quote from: Hero on July 11, 2021, 04:58:40 PM

I notice that Harrick's entry doesn't say "dead" like the others.

To be fair.  Harris, Saren, and Artemus don't say dead either.  And Harrick's should say.. Murdered!

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Malchia on July 12, 2021, 04:09:26 PM

Quote from: Zunder on July 12, 2021, 02:32:41 PM

To be fair.  Harris, Saren, and Artemus don't say dead either.  And Harrick's should say.. Murdered!

Justice isn't murder.  Besides, Marston made you a promise to put a bullet in your brain and he's a man of his word.

Title: Re: Tales of the Heroes
Post by: Zunder on July 12, 2021, 09:34:02 PM

Quote from: Malchia on July 12, 2021, 04:09:26 PM

Justice isn't murder.  Besides, Marston made you a promise to put a bullet in your brain and he's a man of his word.

Justice, I haven't even been given a fair trial yet.  Good thing is, I'll probably be able to testify at my own murder trial.  How is that for proof.