Chapter 2: South Wind

[Dicer]

Seeing the various threats being caused by the massive combat, Veskassdak decides that the threat posed by the advancing undead scouts approaching them is the highest priority. Roaring "Shurigrem heem korlas kles!" he entered his rage. His body swelled as blood filled his muscles. His yellow eyes turned red as the blood pressure flowing through them increased. His breathing sped up as his rage demanded more air to fuel his growing strength. His back frill's color deepened to a near black shade of green, while half an inch wide fringe of his frill took on a blood red tinge. His dorsal spikes stretched to make him appear even larger, the tips again taking on their bloody coloration. Although he knew his appearance would not faze the undead foes, any living foes he would soon meet would have nightmares for however short their remaining time alive would be.

Taking off towards the advancing undead scouts, he planned to attack any that came closest to him.

Spoiler

Rage adjustments: AC 15, HP 50, Fort save +8, DR 1/-, Speed 45, Attack bonus +8, bite damage 1d3+5, 2 claws damage 1d4+5 each, 1 rage round of 11 used

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

attack roll 17+8, 2+8; 2+5 damage

The undead, of course, show no reaction as the advancing lizard man gets closer - however, you notice how the goblins nearby slowly fall back as if to avoid your teeth and claws. Combined with their rising companions, it looks as if they're about to run - if only there weren't the other group members blocking the valley's entry for now.

While both the undead orcs and goblins seem to try to avoid you, the scouts adjust their path immediately to engage Veskassdak as soon as they can. However, the lizard man gets the first strike, claws trying to rip through leather armor as the former human raises his two daggers in an attempt to defend himself. Your natural weapons manage to cause some damage as they hit rotten flesh, but it's certainly not enough to stop the man for now. That close, you manage to see thin layers of some brown fluid along his weapon's edges - you might want to avoid getting stabbed by those.

Around you, the goblins manage to cut down multiple orcs as they advance, but there are still enough of them around. In fact two goblins get killed in return, and one of them pulls out the spear that hit him, unnatural hatred in his eyes; he points it towards those who were a bit luckier thus far, and joins the undead hordes. Renna, engaged with the orcs, gets hit as well, but for now, her armor prevents any damage.

Almost as if he'd await Grognif's next attack, the goblin commander stays further back, weapon at the ready in case the ghostly beast shows itself - not that his troops in the middle would need much help, only the orc commander and one of his fellows stand against the mass of undead bodies pressing forward.

As you all fight, you might still notice a few giant movements behind the barrier blocking the cave - it's hard to tell what's behind it, but it might be a threat if it ever breaks free.

Psychie is up with Renna - do you wish to continue to target the undead orcs, cut down the newly risen, now undead goblins, or support the berserker against the scouts?

22 Renna
19 Scouts 1-2
19 Undead Goblins 4-10 (close to the cave)
17 Io
15 Undead Goblins 15-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 4-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc Commander
12 Wren
12 Grognif, the First
11 Baird
11 Goblin Shaman
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, one man wounded)
10 Orc 10 (in the middle)
9 Beasts 1-5 (close to the cave)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 5-10 (in the middle)
--> 6 Veskassdak
5 Goblins 6-10 (close to you)
4 Undead Orcs 4-10 (close to you)
3 Undead Goblin Commander
1 New Undead - middle: 6 Orcs.
1 New Undead - close to the cave: 1 Ratling.
1 New Undead - close to you: 4 Goblins

 

[Psychie]

Renna is briefly impressed with the monstrous form of the spirit animal that Wren summoned, but there are just too many opponents to dwell upon it for long. Singing out a battle hymn that she had learned in her early days at the monastery, she continues to wage her personal war against the undead orcs.

Spoiler

I will attempt a Cleave again, trying to level as many of these orcs as I can. Damage is 2d6+9, +7 to hit

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

Attack rolls: 15+7, 11+7, damage 7+9, 9+9.

Focussing on the undead orcs right on your side of the battle, Renna raises her greatsword once more, and the steel easily slices through the body of the closest foe. But this time, the paladin does not stop there - the words of Iomadae on her lips, she turns around in a rather swift motion, just as another undead orc foolishly tries to catch her off guard. The unholy creature is way too slow to avoid her sudden, precise thrust, and soon enough, its remains hit the ground as well.

On the other side, the living scouts seem to have decided that the four-legged beasts are the biggest threat - at least, one of them fires an arrow at them, barely scratching the creature's fur. The other one does not shoot, however, and instead alertly turns towards the barrier, as if he heard something he disliked.

While the undead goblins further back can hardly compete with either beasts or orcs, their numbers alone give them the advantage - for now, none of the remaining ones fall, but both the orc commander and his last companion take deep wounds as they hold their position. The commander at least strikes another two of his former men down, his giant axe smashing its way through their armor; but it will only be a matter of time until he is overwhelmed. The ratlings won't be much of a help - while the bolts of the crossbow lower the number of undead, surprisingly silent goblins, the losses are barely significant.

Io takes aim at one of the undead scouts, but the arrow does not penetrate the armor; it seems that they are well-equipped which, by now, is rather unfortunate.

Sherwood is up with Wren - on your side of the battle, things are quite equal, as long as you do not count the undead scouts; while the undead are at an advantage, Renna is slowly working on that. Whom do you wish to target yourself?

22 Renna
19 Scouts 1-2
19 Undead Goblins 6-10 (close to the cave)
17 Io
15 Undead Goblins 15-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 4-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc Commander (lightly wounded)
-->12 Wren
12 Grognif, the First
11 Baird
11 Goblin Shaman
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, one man wounded)
10 Orc 10 (in the middle, wounded)
9 Beasts 1-5 (close to the cave, one slightly wounded)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 5-10 (in the middle)
6 Veskassdak
5 Goblins 6-10 (close to you)
4 Undead Orcs 6-10 (close to you)
3 Undead Goblin Commander
1 New Undead - middle: 4 Orcs.
1 New Undead - close to the cave: 1 Ratling.
1 New Undead - close to you: 4 Goblins

 

[Sherwood]

Since the ranks of the undead keep getting swelled from the fallen of the living, Wren is in agreement with Renna that they are the worst of the threats out there. So, with that in mind, she maneuvers to be close to the sword-wielding paladin, moving in behind one of the undead and strikes out with her paired blades.

Spoiler

Trying a dual strike flanking an opponent. +7 to hit doing 3d6+1 damage each blade.

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

To hit: 4+9, 17+9. To wound: 10+1

The creature miraculously manages to avoid your very first strike - a mixture of bad luck on your end and a surprisingly quick reaction, as if more live than expected was still in the undead being. However, the second blow lands all the better, cutting through flesh, sinews and muscles to drop another orc for the count.

Once more Grognif's jaw appears, breaking through the sodden ground to cause another round of havoc. This time, his attack is directed at the undead commander himself - and giant teeth crunsh the goblin's shield as well as the entire arm holding it. Not vulnerable to the feeling of pain any longer, the leader manages to break away, and even lands a hit on his own that simply glances off the ghostly scales - but he certainly is weakened.
The ancient beast, however, is not quite pleased with that attack on its own; you see a giant, ghostly claw appear right next to the hole left behind from the earlier attack, dragging another undead orc back into the ground where dead remains belong.

With that, Clockwork Syringe is up with Baird - what is your next course of action?

22 Renna
19 Scouts 1-2
19 Undead Goblins 6-10 (close to the cave)
17 Io
15 Undead Goblins 15-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 4-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc Commander (lightly wounded)
12 Wren
12 Grognif, the First
--> 11 Baird
11 Goblin Shaman
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, one man wounded)
10 Orc 10 (in the middle, wounded)
9 Beasts 1-5 (close to the cave, one slightly wounded)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 6-10 (in the middle)
6 Veskassdak
5 Goblins 6-10 (close to you)
4 Undead Orcs 7-10 (close to you)
3 Undead Goblin Commander (wounded - if that makes sense for an undead...)
1 New Undead - middle: 4 Orcs.
1 New Undead - close to the cave: 1 Ratling.
1 New Undead - close to you: 4 Goblins

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Seeing the giant ghost take a bite at the goblin commander and drag down an orc, Baird will fire at the recently undead goblin commander seeing him as the closest threat. He takes careful aim and fires.
Silanon
((sorry for short post))

 

[Psychie]

Renna takes time out of her hacking to call out, "Keep strong! With Iomeade's blessing, we will prevail!"

 

[Dicer]

"Warbringer win not ssshall!" roared Veskassdak to add his voice with Renna's.

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

Baird: Attack roll: 19+3. Damage: 4.

Without his shield, the undead commander certainly is more exposed - and accompanied by his allies' shouts, the sorcerer aims well, hitting the creature right in its chest. Given the goblin's unnatural resilience, the bolt does not make too much of an impact yet - but a few more of those, and the undead leader will eventually fall.

On the other side of the battle, the shaman continues in his ritual - taking the bones he grabbed moments ago, he throws them into the air around him, seemingly in arbitrary directions. However, they start to encircle his position when his voice formulates words in goblintongue. In front of him, the remaining orc fighter strikes down another one of his former brothers, trying his best to avoid defeat for just a little while longer. It only takes a few more moments, though, then mighty axes end his life. At least, he does not rise once more, so his bravery is somewhat rewarded. Trying to save his lone companion, the orc commander takes another brutal hit; for now he is still standing, but as outnumbered as he is, that might not last much longer.

On their side of the battlefield, the beasts slowly bite their way through the masses of goblins - despite their untamed strength and agility, they won't be able to turn the tides quick enough for it to matter. If someone wanted to save the orc leader, it'd either be the shaman, or your group of adventurers.

However, there are other threats to deal with at the moment - as Veskassdak mentions the warbringer himself, one of the undead scouts shakes his head, his lips moving to form unholy words. "Never will he be stopped, he'll be free once more. Even now, you're fighting in His honor, and soon enough, you'll join His ranks." With that said, he thrusts forward, and his knife finds a hole in both your defense and between armor and scales. The wound itself is not much more than a cut, barely enough to draw blood - but for a moment, you can feel the bite of the brown fluid along the weapon's edges. Not for long, though: The rage alone is washing the pain away, ignoring the venom that is so much weaker than most things you'd naturally find within the swamps. You take another cut by the other human scout, with similar effect - and instead easily avoid the undead gnome's sword, seemingly the only true danger for the lizardman.

Spoiler

Veskassdak rolls: 18+8, 7+8 fortitude save vs poison, both saved; takes 4-1,4-1 damage, so 6 in total.

With that, Dicer is up with Veskassdak - whom do you target amongst your opposing foes?

22 Renna
19 Scouts 1-2
19 Undead Goblins 8-10 (close to the cave)
17 Io
15 Undead Goblins 15-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 4-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc Commander (wounded)
12 Wren
12 Grognif, the First
11 Baird
11 Goblin Shaman (casting)
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, one man wounded)
9 Beasts 1-5 (close to the cave, one slightly wounded)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 6-10 (in the middle)
--> 6 Veskassdak (-6 hp)
5 Goblins 6-10 (close to you)
4 Undead Orcs 7-10 (close to you)
3 Undead Goblin Commander (wounded - if that makes sense for an undead...)
1 New Undead - middle: 3 Orcs.
1 New Undead - close to the cave: 1 Ratling.
1 New Undead - close to you: 4 Goblins

 

[Dicer]

Gauging which of the three he was fighting was damaged more, Veskassdak decided to divide his attacks between all three since all three looked equal to his eyes. Swiping with one claw each at the undead human scouts, he also bit at the undead gnome scout. Even though he would've preferred to concentrate his attacks, this way he could probably do more damage this way.

Spoiler

2 rage rounds of 11 used. 44 hp left.

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

Claws: 4+8, 2+8, Bite: 13+8, 7 dmg.

In the midst of the battlefield, furious rage against the warbringer's slaves meets their, slow, calculated fighting style. Despite their lifless existence, the three of them work well together, covering each others flanks and doing their best to never give a good opportunity to strike - mostly, that works out rather well; your claws hit air and steel, never flesh. Only a sudden move of the head, biting the briefly exposed gnome, manages to find a hole. You taste the foul flavor of death itself before another hit lets you back up, eyeing the weakened, but still threatening fighter.

The living goblins close to you use the distraction provided by Renna and Wren to help out their own leader - with their remaining numbers, they manage to overcome two of those orcs who became undead in front of your very eyes. That means, however, that the undead on your side suddenly lack another target other than your group - and while Wren manages to dodge their thrusts, Renna is not quite as fortunate. As she takes a more aggressive stand, two spears break through her reduced defense. One only manages to draw a bit of blood - the other one, however, pierces right through her armor, and almost impales the paladin. She manages to break free, at least for now, but her sight grows hazy for just a second from the brutal wound.

Spoiler

Renna takes a whooping 8+13 damage, so 21 in total. Blame the dice!

The undead commander raises his sword, speaks rather guttural sounding words - shortly after, a black bubble of magical energies surrounds his small figure. The other undead seem to cause no relevant damage, apart from the undead goblins close to you. They decide to turn towards you as well, but avoid your melee fighters to turn against Io and Baird, two against each one. Both take a scratch by their primitive knives, nothing too serious for now.

Spoiler

Io takes 5 damage, Baird takes 4.

You all might be too busy to pay attention, but on the other side of the battlefield, something seems to hit the magical barrier from the inside - it vibrates, then its color fades for a moment before recovering from the hit. Whatever is in there is breaking free, slowly but surely.

Psychie is up with Renna to take bloody revenge.

--> 22 Renna (-21)
19 Scouts 1-2
19 Undead Goblins 8-10 (close to the cave)
17 Io (-5)
15 Undead Goblins 15-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 4-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc Commander (wounded)
12 Wren
12 Grognif, the First
11 Baird (-4)
11 Goblin Shaman (casting)
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, one man and the gnome wounded)
9 Beasts 1-5 (close to the cave, one slightly wounded)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 6-10 (in the middle)
6 Veskassdak (-6 hp)
5 Goblins 6-10 (now in the middle)
4 Undead Orcs 7-10 (engaging Renna and Wren)
3 Undead Goblin Commander (wounded - if that makes sense for an undead... magical bubble around him)
1 New Undead - middle: 1 Orc.
1 New Undead - close to the cave: 1 Ratling.
1 New Undead - close to you: 4 Goblins (engaging Baird and Io)

 

[Psychie]

Renna feels her knees go weak from the force of the attacks that pierce her skin, but she manages to muster up enough internal strength to continue onwards. "Iomeade! Aid your humble servant! Give me the strength to defeat the forces of darkness arrayed against me!" A warm glow can be felt as the healing power flows through her, giving the paladin enough strength to continue to wield her sword in a series of powerful swings against undead orcs 7 and 8.

Spoiler: OOC

If I read the rules right, I should be able to perform a Swift Action of self healing with the Lay on Hands and still be able to attack.
Lay on Hands x7, healing 2d6 damage
Going to try a Cleave attack against the two undead.+7 to hit, doing 2d6+9 damage

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

Healing: 9. To hit: 14+7, 12+7. Damage: 15, 19. Didn't find a reason why this shouldn't work - cleave is a standard action, so they shoudln't block each other.

Renna's call for aid is certainly heard - the deeper wound taken closes partially as the restoring energies flood through her veins - and in her rightful wrath, the two orcs in front of her are easily slain by the giant sword she wields. Despite the wounds the paladin took, things do not look too bad any longer - her attack, combined with Wren's support, has slowly but surely lowered the undead's numbers, at least on your side of the battle. Apart from the undead scouts close to Veskassdak, only a few undead fighters remain, besides the goblin commander. The living orcs have dwindled as well, apart from the ratlings and beasts, not much of their force remains any longer.

The scouts take aim at the beasts once more, and wound the one they already hit earlier - but they are certainly wary of the barrier behind them, doing their best to get as much distance as possible without exposing themselves in the open.

In the middle of the battlefield, the orc commander, supported by the fire of the ratlings, manages to thin out the undead numbers - but there are still more than enough of them to get him eventually.

Io, suddenly engaged in combat, drops her bow and draws her sword - for now, she simply blocks the goblins' blows, trying to avoid another hit. "We're slowly getting there - just a few more... you're ok, Renna?"

Sherwood is up with Wren.

22 Renna (-12)
19 Scouts 1-2
19 Undead Goblins 8-10 (close to the cave)
17 Io (-5)
15 Undead Goblins 17-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 4-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc Commander (wounded)
--> 12 Wren
12 Grognif, the First
11 Baird (-4)
11 Goblin Shaman (casting)
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, one man and the gnome wounded)
9 Beasts 1-5 (close to the cave, one wounded)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 7-10 (in the middle)
6 Veskassdak (-6 hp)
5 Goblins 6-10 (now in the middle)
4 Undead Orcs 9-10 (engaging Renna and Wren)
3 Undead Goblin Commander (wounded - if that makes sense for an undead... magical bubble around him)
1 New Undead - close to the cave: 1 Ratling.
1 New Undead - close to you: 4 Goblins (engaging Baird and Io)

 

[Sherwood]

Wren continues to ply her blades with deadly accuracy (I hope) and tears into Undead Orc 9 that is threatening Renna.

Spoiler

+7 to hit with dual wielding blades, doing 3d6+1 each.

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

Attacks: 9+7, 5+7

Despite his slowness, the undead orc somehow manages to avoid your blows - one is blocked by the creature's spear, the other one only scratches the scale mail, not causing any harm.

Once more, Grognif's jaws appear, trying to swallow the undead commander - however, the teeth only hit the magical barrier he summoned, and for a moment, dark red sparks fly in all directions. The ghostly creature has the better end of it, however; after a moment, the barrier bursts, and the commander takes another deep wound as he barely escapes the giant jaws - any living creature would have likely died, but as he knows no pain, he continues to fight. His movements are way slower now, though, he is clearly weakened by the regular attacks.

Clockwork Syringe is up with Baird.

22 Renna (-12)
19 Scouts 1-2
19 Undead Goblins 8-10 (close to the cave)
17 Io (-5)
15 Undead Goblins 17-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 4-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc Commander (wounded)
12 Wren
12 Grognif, the First
--> 11 Baird (-4)
11 Goblin Shaman (casting)
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, one man and the gnome wounded)
9 Beasts 1-5 (close to the cave, one wounded)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 7-10 (in the middle)
6 Veskassdak (-6 hp)
5 Goblins 6-10 (now in the middle)
4 Undead Orcs 9-10 (engaging Renna and Wren)
3 Undead Goblin Commander (heavily wounded)
1 New Undead - close to the cave: 1 Ratling.
1 New Undead - close to you: 4 Goblins (engaging Baird and Io)

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Baird will reload his crossbow and remain alert if any goblins attack himself and Io.

 

[Danchou Tsubomi]

Spoiler: Previously...

Further south:

To say that the whole situation is confusing certainly is an understatement. No matter whom you might have asked during the hours-long march through the night, there's been noone who would have claimed to know exactly what's going on. As one of the older archers worded things: "It's a huge, fricking mess." As far as you know, the Forgotten, one of the assembled mercenary companies, decided to deliver the first strike against Kazragun, sadly on their own - in fact, the northern sky is clouded by black smoke this morning, rising from the orc bastion's outskirts. The Third Princes didn't wait too long after that, sending support for the somehow successful offense; and thus discarding any arrangements for a coordinated, joint attack.

That more or less left only the regular armies behind: Firstly, the Order of the Flame, quickly deciding to not change their plans and instead delay their own attack until the situation is easier to grasp. Secondly, the remaining nobles who don't support Vyran Torch and his ambitions have still agreed to do the same. And so the King's Guard, as they call themselves despite the lack of a king since His death, is likely only now on the way; slowly moving forward, not too eager to aid those who are mostly regarded as scum or outsiders that shouldn't interfere at all.

A single noble makes an exception. As the archer has put it: "Our ever so brave lord decided that we'd better be part of the mess." Leading his group of about hundred men in person, Lord Petaccio rides his well-built warhorse. It doesn't take an expert to see that he's not a warrior himself: He has the stature of a man who'd rarely choose a sword over a third or forth chicken leg, and his armor barely seems to fit around his mighty waist. And yet, he's here, almost absently mustering the foul-smelling swamp around the track you're following for now. Maybe he just wants to get things done quickly, or really cares for those further ahead. Or things are as some have indicated, and he has simply nothing to lose anymore. You heard the rumours that even his wife-to-be ran away when she first saw him - not that anyone here would confirm it. His men are well-equipped, and carry the banners with the white dog sniffing at the family tree on it with pride. In fact, they show the bit of confidence that the grey-haired man certainly lacks. For what it's worth, he's here at least, willing to fight where others are still miles further south.

That alone might be the reason why the half-elven cleric Lenorei is part of this group; while you're not a member of his personal household, this is likely the place where your abilities will be needed the most. Where do you go - somewhere in the front, to be one of the first to know if somthing happens, or further back a bit more safer, amongst the heavily armored soldiers or in-between the archers even further in the back? Do you answer the cautious attempts of others to start a conversation, or do you respond to their sometimes sceptical, sometimes curious looks by simply remaining silent?

Lenorei nodded occasionally to show that she was listening, but didn't say much. While not being a strong silent type or the kind of person who hated talking, she didn't think she knew enough to really contribute to the conversation. That seemed like a good enough reason to not say anything to her. As for the stares...considering her appearance, it wasn't uncommon for Lenorei to have eyes on her. Maybe it was her heritage. Maybe it was the big X on her face. Maybe it was her face despite the scar - if it weren't for Lenorei's irritable personality, she would likely have more suitors.

Speaking of irritable...

"Something on my face?" she asked her onlookers, knowing the answer. Somehow, Lenorei found it humorous and annoying that people looked at her so often. Sure, half-breeds weren't all that common, but a scar couldn't be that rare. People failed to defend themselves in battle all the time - of course you'd see such a thing.

She shrugged for now. It didn't matter - what mattered was making sure she was ready to respond to whatever happened quickly. Getting her focus back to the situation at hand, she stayed in the back and looked to the distance, keeping an eye open for action.

Spoiler

Ahh, I'm kinda new to this so I'm not sure how specific I need to be with this, but...if you would, roll for perception?
Perception 8 (ability mod + 5 + rank 1 + misc mod 2)

 

[Silanon]

At the cave entrance:

The sorcerer backs up just a few steps to avoid additional wounds, then continues to reload his crossbow - preparing himself to shoot next turn.

In the meantime, the goblin shaman stops his movements, ending his evocation with a thundering shout. Right as Grognif's jaws rise to attack the goblin commander once more, the hovering bones around the shaman suddenly are ingulfed in flames, and a sparkling lightning escapes his wrinkled hands. It hits the summoned guardian with a fulminating sound, and for a moment, pure electricity enlightens the entire, ghostly creature - then, secondary lightning bolts shoot away in all directions, hitting friends and foes alike.

Some of you are lucky enough that none of the bolts gets close to you - others not so much. Wren manages to avoid the worst by ducking right in time before getting hit, and so only a few sparks manage to burn her skin as the undead orc next to you gets hit and consumed by the elemental energies. Veskassdak is not quick enough - as you get hit, the world around you turns white for a moment, and your mithril shirt seems to crackle on your skin. Then, the spell jumps over to the foes around you, causing damage to their lifeless bodies.

Further away, Baird gets hit as well - and even his draconic ancestry cannot prevent him from such potent magic. He has a similar experience, though his robe seems to almost devour the magic - the two goblins around you are less lucky than you are, and get burnt by the thundering lightning. As your eyes recover from the sudden flesh of light, you notice that more damage was caused - several other bodies lie on the ground burnt by the shaman's mighty spell, especially the living goblins near the happenings took some major casualties. Remarkably, the undead commander himself seems untouched by the powerful magic - his strongest opponent, the summoned guardian, is nowhere to be seen for now. However, in your minds you can hear a furious roar.

Spoiler

Rolled to see if anyone takes half damage: Wren passed her test on a 17, Baird failed his on a 7. Didn't have the reflex save for Veskassdak since I forgot to get myself access to his sheet, but I rolled a 5, so you wouldn't possibly get enough to resist. Veskassdak takes 10 damage, Wren 4, and Baird 9. Note: The hits were randomized.

It takes about a second until those around decide to continue the fight - especially the living forces are rather uncoordinated for now. The undead act as if nothing happened - the scouts in particular manage to score two minor hits against Veskassdak as he recovers.

Spoiler

9 points after damage reduction.

The beasts irritated by the fact that one of them got caught by the lightning and burnt alive right next to them, barely do anything at all - one of the goblins provokes an attack and pays with his undead life for it. Around the fighting orc commander, his few loyal goblins die against the heavy axes swung by the smashed orcs in front of them. With that, the living orc forces are mostly beaten, only the beast and two leaders remain. One of them is the shaman, of course, laughing as if he got struck by pure madness.

Dicer is up with Veskassdak.

22 Renna (-12)
19 Scouts 1-2
19 Undead Goblins 9-10 (close to the cave)
17 Io (-5)
15 Undead Goblins 17-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 5-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc commander (wounded)
12 Wren (-4)
12 Grognif, the First
11 Baird (-13)
11 Goblin Shaman (laughing)
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, one man and the gnome wounded)
9 Beasts 2-5 (close to the cave)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 8-10 (in the middle)
--> 6 Veskassdak (-25 hp)
4 Undead Orcs 10 (engaging Renna and Wren)
3 Undead Goblin Commander (heavily wounded)
1 New Undead - close to the cave: 1 Ratling.
1 New Undead - close to you: 2 Goblins (engaging Io)


Further south:
One of the archers actually responds, an older man who seems to be the most reserved one of the few. "A scar, and not the most usual one - one wonders..." He does not manage to finish his sentence, as suddenly, a thundering sound can be heard further ahead - the sky is clear apart from the smoke, so it's not too difficult to guess that this is not a natural noise. You see how everywhere around you men and women hectically grab their weapons tighter, expecting the worst in the midst of these swamps. However, no immediate danger appears; as carefully as you eye your surrounding, there does not seem to be anything to spot: The only movement in the bushes is one man of the vanguard appearing in front of your group directly approaching the lord on his horse. "The noise seemed to come from further ahead, seems like the trail takes a slight turn to the left. Maybe a few scouts got into trouble - better be ready for a fight, mylord. There are other tracks coming from further east. Some of them lighter - I'd say elves if there were any of them around, maybe just a few sneaky humans. One heavier armored than the others, and some curious footprints I haven't seen anywhere in these swamps thus far. Almost looks like some kind of reptile that runs on two legs and is quite heavy."

The old lord nods slowly, then answers in his calm, though rather unmelodious voice: "Anyone here familiar with the local fauna? If so, move ahead and take a look at those tracks. Everyone else, we move further forward, be on guard." Noone else really steps forward, not even the more experienced archer who tried to answer just moments ago - others look around in search of anyone who might know more than them. A few eyes naturally turn towards Lenorei, almost expecting to see you come forward. Quite natural - as far as you know, most of them come from far further away, as the lord himself stems from the southern parts of the kingdom. How familiar are you with the northern area in general? Did you leave your village often enough to be of any help? And even if not, would you like to step up regardless, or do you wish to march forward with the others?

Spoiler

Rolled a 17+8 for perception - in general, I will roll for perception whenever I think there is anything to spot - one reason why I have a list with all of your perception rolls in my workshop. Of course, if you want to examine something special, like a magical item or anything of that sort, feel free to mention the kind of skill you'd want to apply to get further knowledge - for the usual kind of perception checks, that's not necessary.

 

[Dicer]

"Kassta skagu!" Veskassdak shouted after being hit by the lightning spell. "Hurtsss!"
He then refocused his attention on who he was fighting. Deciding that trying to damage 3 foes at the same time would just tire him out, he focused all his attacks on the short undead enemy and attacked.

Spoiler

Targetting the undead gnome. Rage adjustments: AC 15, HP 25, DR 1/-, Fort save +8, Speed 45 ft., Attack bonus +8, bite damage 1d3+5, 2 claws damage 1d4+5, 3 of 11 rage rounds of used.

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

Atk-rolls: Bite 6+8, Claws 6+8, 6+8. Likelyhood of a triple-six: 1/8000

Despite the focused attacks of the lizardman, the undead gnome somehow manages to avoid any major hits - although he moves slowly, his controlled movements combined with his armor are enough to keep him 'alive'.

This time, Renna manages to avoid any further wounds by the last remaining undead orc on your side of the battle - the goblins are equally unsuccessful, not able to keep up with Io's speed as the elf dodges their attacks. The undead commander seems uncertain for a moment whether to expect another ghostly attack or not - however, given the laughter of the shaman, he focuses on the imminent threat of the spellcaster for now. The orc commander blocks his path, though, and despite taking a small wound, he manages to hold off the goblin.

Once more, the barrier in the cave entry gets hit by something on the inside - it flickers, apparently almost breaking, threatening to release whatever is behind it. You might be able to notice the movement of a giant, club-wielding creature behind it.

Psychie is up with Renna, and there's a post further up for Danchou Tsubomi as well.

--> 22 Renna (-12)
19 Scouts 1-2
19 Undead Goblins 9-10 (close to the cave)
17 Io (-5)
15 Undead Goblins 17-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 5-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc commander (wounded)
12 Wren (-4)
12 Grognif, the First
11 Baird (-13)
11 Goblin Shaman (laughing)
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, one man and the gnome wounded)
9 Beasts 2-5 (close to the cave)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 8-10 (in the middle)
6 Veskassdak (-25 hp)
4 Undead Orcs 10 (engaging Renna and Wren)
3 Undead Goblin Commander (heavily wounded)
1 New Undead - close to the cave: 1 Ratling.
1 New Undead - close to you: 2 Goblins (engaging Io)

 

[Psychie]

Renna once more calls forth the blessing of her Goddess, asking for healing on her injuries as she continues to hack her way deeper into the maelstrom in front of her. She will engage the orc in front of her, and if there is a second target in range, Renna will continue her swing into the second foe.

Spoiler

Lay on Hands x6, healing 2d6 damage
+7 to hit, doing 2d6+9 damage

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

to hit: 8+9, damage 3+9, healing 3+3

Once more, refreshing energies rush through your veins as you call for your deity's help - and, encouraged by her support, you easily cut down the last remaining orc, making sure that both you and Wren can turn against more threatening targets. Neither the scouts nor the undead goblins are quite in range for your cleave, however - at least that means that you do not expose yourself to their attacks, either. In the meantime, Io does her best to keep the undead goblins at bay - and while she does manage to not get hit, it clearly shows that she is not a very proficient fighter with her sword.

On the other side of the small valley, you can see how the two scouts of the Forgotten hectically back off of the barrier, trying to avoid whatever is in there. That means, however, that they leave their cover, and rather get closer to the threatening beasts than stay in their position. That's even more concerning given the fact that the ratlings manage to shoot down both the undead goblins and their former brother on that side of the battlefield, leaving the wolf-like creatures with basically no undeads in range of their teeth and claws.

In the middle, the orc commander raises his greataxe against the undead goblin - its steel flashes in a beam of sunlight right before it hits the creature, cleaving through rotting flesh and bones to end its fight for the Warbringer. "Praise the harbinger!" A shout in the language of the orcs, in case someone happens to speak their tongue. You can see how a sudden wave of uncertainty seems to hit the remaining undead, now that their leader has finally faded away. The orc does not hesitate to take advantage, cutting down another undead orc before falling back just a couple of steps to have enough space to swing again.

Sherwood is up with Wren.

22 Renna (-6)
19 Scouts 1-2
17 Io (-5)
15 Undead Goblins 17-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 5-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc commander (wounded)
--> 12 Wren (-4)
12 Grognif, the First
11 Baird (-13)
11 Goblin Shaman (laughing)
11 Undead Scouts 1-3 (2 men, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak, all of them wounded)
9 Beasts 2-5 (close to the cave)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 9-10 (in the middle)
6 Veskassdak (-25 hp)
1 New Undead - close to you: 2 Goblins (engaging Io)

 

[Sherwood]

At this point, Wren shifts her position over to aid Veskassdak with his targets. Flanking one of the undead men, she tries for a dual sword attack to take off some of the pressure on the lizard man.

Spoiler

+9 to hit from flanking, doing 3d6+1 with each blade

 

[Silanon]

Spoiler

to hit: 16+9, 16+9; 23 damage in total.

Wielding her two swords against the closest undead scout, a rather short fellow with red-glowing eyes, the rogue takes careful aim - and, combining her expertise with the sudden confusion due to the leader's unexpected death, both weapons easily find their way around his armor plates, cutting through undead flesh and muscles. The first hit brings him down by cutting through his hamstrings, the second one makes sure that he won't rise again.

For now, there is no further sign of Grognif - perhaps, he simply shakes off the effects of the brutal strike that hit him, or waits for the perfect opportunity to act once more - either way, its jaws do not enclose any orcs for now, whether undead or not, and no roar can be heard.

With that, Clockwork Syringe is uo with Baird - both fighting groups have taken heavy casualties, but it seems as if the living might slowly gain the upper hand.

22 Renna (-6)
19 Scouts 1-2
17 Io (-5)
15 Undead Goblins 17-20 (in the middle)
14 Ratlings 5-10 (close to the cave, on the cliff)
13 Orc commander (wounded)
12 Wren (-4)
12 Grognif, the First
--> 11 Baird (-13)
11 Goblin Shaman (laughing)
11 Undead Scouts 2-3 (1 man, 1 gnome) (engaging Veskassdak and Wren, both of them wounded)
9 Beasts 2-5 (close to the cave)
7 Undead Smashed Orcs 9-10 (in the middle)
6 Veskassdak (-25 hp)
1 New Undead - close to you: 2 Goblins (engaging Io)