The Prytian Quest (RPG)

[JAG]

Baldar watched Benton draw back as the impressive figure of the Wemic came into sight, predictably frightening the horses. Baldar let go of his pouch and pulled his arm out of the folds of his dark green robe for balance as he struggled to control the beast. He relaxed a little as the paladin sheathed his sword, thankful the knight didn't start the quest ignonimously by slicing their guide in two. What the hell was the Wemic thinking with his dramatic entrance anyway?

Bakdar finally brought his horse under control and turned to further contemplate the Wemic, now satisfied his new companion would not be attacked. "So like the rest of his race to enjoy a playful entrance such as that, " he thought, fingering his forked black beard, "likely he has been watching us for some time now. Tracking us perhaps? Typical ranger behavior." Baldar watched as the paladin made his clumsy introduction to the Wemic and decided he could wait no longer to make his acquaintance.

"Greetings Ranger," he spoke in a raspy voice, "I am Baldar."

[sachmo71]

"So this is a Wemic? Very impressive. This should be fun." The dwarf returned his war axe to it's place across his back and smiled at the Wemic. "I am Soriun, war priest of Clangadin. I must say that I've never laid eyes on one of your kind, but Clangdin says that we must accept all races...unless they give one a reason not to."

[Breeze]

Benton looks a Mavirr, smiles at the Bard's expression and turns to Kevan and says, "It appears your presence has left our good Bard speachless." With a long pause Benton adds "And that is definately appreciated."

[WSUCougar]

Despite their advancing age, Puli had long ago trained his ears to see for him. On many occasions since he had left Cross-Kir they had done just that, hearing sounds that forewarned him of things his eyes would not have caught until perhaps too late. Seeing the reaction of Lord Pelspin’s captain had thus prompted Puli to attune his senses to the grove…seeing, listening, smelling, and feeling the elements. He was thus not surprised whatsoever when the Wemic ranger emerged to greet them.

He had never seen such a creature before, though he’d heard tell of them and Lord Pelspin had made reference to him being a part of the quest. His first impulse was to label it a “beast” but the old monk quickly tossed that mentally aside. Clearly this was more than mere beast. With a humble dip of his head he acknowledged the latest addition to their group.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

As the wemic emerged Vasheliave visibly relaxed. He sent a small wave toward the newcomer as if welcoming a familiar face, and then moved toward the pack horses and began unbuckling some of their cargo.

[Breeze]

Benton looked around at the members of the party and says, "Now that we are all together I believe we need to discuss our options. There are numerous things that need to be considered, and not the least of which is the path we shall take. It may not be in our best interest to take the easiest path, especially in light of the fact an ambush is a distinct possiblity. We should also plan our attack strategies so we don't trip over each other trying to get into the fight."

Benton then looks to Vasheliave, "Is this unpacking a sign that we are to camp here tonight, or are you preparing to return to the comfort of your bed?"

[daedalus]

Firestorm cooly regards the paladin for a moment before greeting him with a curt nod. "The Warrior-Priest Benton Gale, I presume? Well met."

With that, Kevan turned to the old man and bow, "Greetings, old father. I welcome the opportunity to learn from you in our journey."

Turning to the mage, Kevan fought to maintain his usual impassive look. Up close, Baldar seemed more . . . aware than he had thought previously. 'I shall have to keep an eye on this one,' Kevan thinks to himself before responding. "Greetings to you, Mage. I am Kevan Firestorm."

With a slight smile, Kevan returned the Dwarven priest' greetings. "I would have to say that the teaching of the Wyrmslayer is indeed very wise. Well met, Soriun War-Priest."

Noticing the silence from the previously chatty last member of the group, Kevan greeted him with a simple nod.

With the wordy introduction out of the way, Kevan turned to Vasheliave. "Greetings, Captain. Did any of the items I requested present a problem? Good." The ranger dutifully inspects and puts the items he received from the old soldier away while the group observe him.

[daedalus]

Turning toward the paladin, Kevan responded, "No, we have a long journey ahead of us and, with the late start, we have no time to waste." Extending his hand out to Vasheliave, "Please thank Lord Pelspin for the supplies. Is there no way to convince you to join us on this journey, Captain?"

[Breeze]

Benton looks to Kevan and smiles,"Already tried that Kevan. Vasheliave mentioned he had an appointment with his bed. Can't say as I blame him, he has been quite busy preparing the items for our journey. Plus he'll be working hard to determine the perpetrator of the scroll theft."

Benton's smile quickly disappears at the mention of the work theft. He shakes his head slowly and continues.

"You may not be aware, and maybe Puli can fill you in better than I, but a copy of the scroll map we are using was stolen. Obviously, whomever took the map is forming their own group to find the candles, and in my opinion they are at a decided advantage. We have no idea who took the map and where they will be journeying from, but they absolutely know our group comes from Lord Pepsin's residence."

"I'm afraid that even if we are able to acquire the item we seek, we'll be ambushed for it, probably right after a difficult battle with orcs, goblins or some other undesirable creature. Our only chance to avoid an ambush in my opinion is to look for an alternate route. The rival party will undoubtedly take the easy path, they will be on the lookout for our camp fires, and they will probably not be in any particular hurry, hoping to allow us to pass and handle all the difficult fighting. If we can find a different path, even if it's more difficult, we may be better served. The tricky part is the path we choose can't be circuitous, or the other party will beat us to the spot and then all is lost. I'm no Ranger, so I'll leave the route we take to Kevan, I only offer this as food for thought."

[sachmo71]

"Wise words, Benton. But could it be that our enemies would expect us to try an alternate route, and so by taking the most direct route, we not only catch them unaware, but also slow them down? I'd gladly take on all the beasts of hell if it meant fighting a stand-up battle. All this sneaking around gives me a headache."

[WSUCougar]

Puli’s gaze traveled across the massive lion-body of the wemic. This was a fascinating creature indeed, and one that the monk was content to have fighting on his side rather than as an enemy.

“I believe we can learn from each other, Master Wemic. Forgive my staring…my native land of Cross-Kir has many exotic species, but none like yours that I’m aware. I am anxious to learn more about your kind.”

The monk’s eyes flickered toward the ranger. “With regard to the stolen scroll copy, I cannot help but feel a sense of guilt that I have somehow contributed to the peril that follows – or perhaps precedes – our quest.”

Vasheliave shook his head in response. “From what I know of the circumstance, your role in the foul play was only as an innocent carrier of the original scroll, my good monk. The drama that unfolded came after the scroll’s arrival here in Prytia.” He made a clucking sound with his tongue, as if distracted by the unsolved mystery, then re-focused his attention on the matters at hand.

“Nevertheless, I’m afraid my escort task is done, and I must return to the city. The supplies you requested are stowed upon the two extra horses. May the gods watch over your quest, my friends. And be sure to take your portion of the evening meal before Kevan does…” With that he winked toward the wemic, climbed upon his horse, and trotted back toward the way they had come.

[JAG]

Baldar regarded the Wemic closely during his introduction. "Interesting that he didn't seem suspicious of the 'foul mage' in his presence. Either he is more tolerant than I would have expected or more adept at hiding his feelings..."

He heard the paladin and Wemic discussing something, but Baldar's eyes were drawn towards a series of mid-sized trees with short branches and narrow, slightly thick leaves. "Excellent," he thought. He knew of some uses for Crantas trees. He pulled out his carving knife and began cutting away some of one tree's bark. After obtaining a suitable amount in one pouch, he pulled out a second one and moved to the branches to gather a number of leaves.

Pleased with himself, he moved back to the group to find the paladin prattling on about taking a longer route to get to their destination. This would never do. If the thieves were Cranstonian or Saturnian, they would not miss the significance of any useful magical objects to be found and the party could arrive to find the whole area looted of useful items...Baldar's desired texts among them of course. Thankfully the dwarf brought up this very point so he would not have to reveal his interest in the matter. Meanwhile, he had something he needed to discuss with the group that the paladin brought up earlier.

"My fellow companions," Baldar said, with a hint of a sneer, "I must speak with you regarding an important matter. None of you have fought by my side previously. Realize this; all of my combat spells contain a verbal component. That means when you hear my voice raise above the tone I am using now, if you do not wish to experience...unpleasant effects...move somewhere other than between myself and the enemy. I will be able to aid in some other matters of divination as well as in other ways I will reveal only when it is necessary."

Gritting his teeth a bit, he added, “I suggest the paladin lead our group. We will be far more organized taking orders from one than six people acting on their own and he is the natural choice as a chivalrous human knight.” So long as Gale’s orders coincided with Baldar’s interests of couse…

“Wemic,” Baldar stated, turning to the ranger, “I must know of the path we will take to reach our destination. Will we travel wilderness or through populated areas? What of the lay of the land? I can not prepare myself properly without knowing these things.”

[sachmo71]

Soriun did nothing to hide the shock in his eyes. In his land, the priest was the warband leader. There was no discussion. For a moment, he considered pointing out this fact. Just as suddenly as it came, his anger subsided.
I am a stranger in this land, he thought. They know nothing of my customs, and I am here to improve relations. Nothing can be gained by making a stand here. Besides, the paladin is a promising soldier. He will do well.

"Yes, I second the notion. Benton Gale should lead us."

Soriun could feel himself tense up for the row that could follow. Some of his companions might take issue with being led by a holy warrior.

Under his breath, he muttered..."This could turn out to be a very long day."

[Breeze]

Benton smiled at the trust being shown him by his compatriots, though he could tell that both Baldar and Sourin were less than enthusiastic about their recommendation. Especially Baldar, but Wizards aren’t much for relinquishing authority, so his obvious distaste for his own words suggesting Benton lead was to be expected. Benton rolled over the thought in his mind. Comfortable in his ability to lead, Benton wanted to accept, but currently his leadership would probably last until the first disagreement erupted.

“I appreciate the nominations to lead, and I’ll gladly assume the mantle. However, currently I think that we are in Kevan’s arena. He is more familiar with the territory, the potential evils that await us and the pace we should set. So as far as travel, I believe Kevan should be in charge of those decisions.”

“With regards to other issues, Puli’s experience is unquestionably superior to mine. I would hesitate to assume leadership over a group with one as smart and wise as our venerable Monk. In addition, it is Puli who obtained the scroll we’re using for our map originally. He has a huge vested interest in this matter. I’ll gladly act as arbitrator in disputes, make decisions when there are conflicting opinions and general look out for the best interest of the group, but I’ll not act as leader without the approval of all present, and not unless the good Monk blesses the decision.”

With that Benton standing tall, looked around at each of the travelers, stopping when his gaze reached Puli. Benton started a small smile, letting Puli know, this was no show, but an honest assessment of the situation.

[sachmo71]

Sorian spat. Apparently the boy needs some confidence, he thought. Disappointed, the dwarf turned his gaze away from the paladin and watched the horizon.

[WSUCougar]

With the practiced eye of many years, Puli observed his companions and their respective reactions to one another. The odd blend of races and professions, as always, concocted a curious mixture, at times languid like a peacefully flowing river, at others turgid like the frothy breakers of the sea.

“I am far from my native land, and we are heading into a dangerous wilderness home to dangers unknown. It would be unwise to have a divided sense of purpose when such dangers come knocking. I will fight be your sides – each of you – and when asked I will offer what wisdom I can. But it is not my place to lead, nor do I have any ambitions for such a role. With no spite intended to our dwarven war-priest, or to the Prytian mage or bard, I too would yield leadership to the wemic ranger, or to the Prytian paladin. I think it best given that they are more closely attuned to Lord Pelspin’s desires in this matter.”

Puli’s eyes narrowed to slits, and he turned his attention to the wooded grove beyond where Baldar had scraped the bark from the tree. Striking a more martial pose, he clutched his quarterstaff a bit tighter. “Something approaches noisily through the underbrush…”

[sachmo71]

Soriun draws his waraxe while preparing his pony to charge.

[JAG]

Baldar ground his teeth and clenched his fists in frustration. Gale's damnable nobility was going to make him a difficult leader to deal with. Besides, the journey would likely demand bold decisive decisions for success. In truth, Baldar would never have willingly chosen any of these companions for a leadership role in this quest. The bard required no explanation. The monk unsurprisingly aimed for a typical advisor role. Such sugary words from that one as well, though he grudgingly admitted to himself there was a certain wisdom behind the words. The ranger would be too busy acting as a guide to be an effective leader...besides the question of his race. The dwarf was a foreigner of uncertain motivation. "And myself," Baldar thought with a mocking laugh. His companions would likely give him a steel kiss by sunset of his first day of leadership, he had no illusions about that. The paladin was the only choice, despite Baldar's misgivings. He could at least be trusted to...

Baldar's thoughts broke off as he heard Puli's warning. He quickly moved on foot diagonally behind the monk. "Noisily, the monk says. I don't hear anything." Baldar quickly ran over the words to a few spells in his mind, muttering them without actually speaking as he followed the monk's gaze towards the underbrush.

[Breeze]

Benton quickly draws his sword and rushes to a strategic position which will allow him to jump in front of anything bearing down on the party.

Benton then asks Mavirr, in a tone which indicated it was more of an order, "Good Bard, if you have any ranged weapons at your disposal, get them ready now!"

Benton, who has trained himself to hear danger approaching, notices a faint sound of russling in the bush, but defering to the Monk's obviously razor keen senses asks Puli, "Can you tell how many?"

[MikeVic]

Mavirr had been uncharacteristically quiet for the last few minutes, or what was really more like half and hour to an hour. He had been taking in the sights, one of which was the massive wemic. Mavirr had never adventured with one such as him, and has never even seen one before. He made a mental note to chat with Kevan when the time was right.

Mavirr had heard the discussion about appointing a guide and a leader, and about which path to take. He had no interest in leading any of the other heroes through the journey, and although his knowledge of these parts was quite formidable, Mavirr didn't want to take on some official role. He would provide information when the time was right, such as right now:

"Fellow friends! I think the sound is coming from that of a feral pig." Mavirr stopped, listened again, and continued to talk: "I'm not quite sure, but it could even be two or three! Be on guard, as these pigs are known to attack ferociously." He heard what Benton had ordered him to do, and replied:

"Opps, silly me! I must have forgotten my repeating crossbow of increased attack back at home." Mavirr grinned at Benton. "If you have a ranged weapon that I can use, preferably not a bow, then I will be happy to use it." Mavirr grinned again, and slid a rapier out from his pants, which was hidden by the side of his pant-leg.

"I will do whatever I can to help win this glorious battle! I must be good, after all, since I have survived quite a few adventures."

Mavirr grinned for a third time at Benton, and focused his attention to the feral pigs approaching. At least, Mairr thought they were feral pigs...

[Breeze]

Benton rolls his eyes at Mavirr. And thinks to himself. We might want to determine who has ranged weapons so we can determine the best way to attack foes.

"Pigs eh! Maybe will have Ham tonight." Benton smiles.

[sachmo71]

"If the ham doesn't have us first!" With a laugh, Soriun raised his huge axe in one hand and prepared to charge. He began to chant holy words asking Clangadin to bless him and his entire party.

Soriun casts Bless.

[daedalus]

Kevan's passive manner belies his exasperation at the wasting of valuable time while these city people banter. The thought of rolling his eyes crosses his mind but that would be a terribly un-Wemic thing to do and so he busies himself with putting away the things that the Captain has brought and attempting to calm the pack horses. Finally, he can take no more. "Look, Lord Pelspin asked me to guide this group across these land and that I shall. What you choose to do beyond that will be up to . . . "

Kevan stops suddenly as he hears the rustling noises, hearing Puli's warnings just as he turns to observe. The scents and sounds reminds him of those times he has had to deal with the feral pigs of these forest. Unfortunately, with all these talking, it is tough to determine the exact number of the charging beasts.

'Pity I will not be able to test out the things that Vash has brought.' Firestorm takes a quick glance at the group's readiness. "Benton Gale, you and I shall flank the Dwarf." Turning toward Puli, "Old Father, you and the chatty one keep an eye on our flanks and give the Mage some time." With a solemn look, he turns to Baldar, "and we shall see if he is as good as he claims." As Kevan checks to make sure his throwing axe will be drawn quickly if needed, he remembers to say, "Please do not attack or make any sudden moves until I say so. If there is only one or two, I may be able to calm them and we can hopefully avoid any unnecessary bloodshed and injuries. Anymore, however, and the pack mentality will not allow them to calm." With that, Kevan readies his quarterstaff. Hopefully, unnecessarily.

Once they enter the clearing, if there are only one or two of the beasts, Kevan shall attempt Animal Empathy. If there are more, he knows of a few recipes he can use for dinner. And preserved meat will be good for the trip.

[JAG]

Baldar ignored the verbal jab of the Wemic and moved into the suggested position, keeping a clear line-of-sight in case his magic was required. He was actually pleased to see someone take tactical charge of the situation. At first he figured the bard had made a jest about the approaching sounds, but the Wemic seemed to agree and had knowledge of the surrounding area. Baldar had little knowledge of the pigs, but assumed they were aggressive and dangerous based on the Wemic's tone and words.

He contemplated two different spells; one if there was only a single pig and the Wemic was unable to control the situation and one if there were too many for the ranger to handle. Baldar decided there was a good chance he would need to act, as he did not want to risk injury or worse to befall his companions and slow progress on their journey. If the ranger failed to control the situation, Baldar would need to step in immediately. He grabbed at the earlier pouch of fine sand in his robe and drew it out. The other spell would be quicker to cast, but would be of minimal use against a multitude of opponents...

[Breeze]

Benton slides over next to Sourin.

Benton begins to think, 'The Wemic's abilities in the wilderness allow him to see and react to things quickly - his taking charge at this time is probably appropriate and illustrates exactly what I was expressing just moments before. He's familiar with the beasts we'll be encountering, knows the best way to attack them, and can sense their presence quickly enough to position the party in the best possible places. If Kevan is to lead the path to the goal, then he should probably also act as the party leader. Though I've lead numerous quests, and prefer to lead, there is no since in asking a Paladin to head-up a wilderness adventure when a Ranger is present, especially a Wemic Ranger, who's innate abilities make him impossing in this setting.'

[WSUCougar]

The dwarf’s magical blessing washed over the group, an odd but indeed encouraging sensation. Puli, who was not used to such things, gasped a bit in spite of himself. Things were happening quickly…the wemic and the paladin moving forward in support of the mounted dwarf, the wizard striding behind them with a look of concentrated purpose, and the bard chatting away. As was his custom, the monk began to twirl the quarterstaff from hand to hand, and noted somewhat absently that the massive ranger carried one as well.

Calm them? Puli repeated the wemic’s words to himself. Whatever was moving towards them sounded very urgent in its movements…

Through the low brush, a flash of brown marked the presence of one beast. If it was indeed a feral pig, Puli thought, it was much larger than the eastern variety he was familiar with – this animal was at least the size of a Draxonian ram or even a small bull. Its impressive tusks flashed ivory in the sunlight, and as it caught wind of the group’s presence, it emitted a fearsome high-pitched shriek.

Kevan stepped slightly forward and began his efforts to calm the beast. However, despite his skills in such methods, it was soon clear that the feral pig would have none of it. With two violent tosses of its head and rampant snorting, the animal prepared to charge, as another smaller pig – perhaps an adolescent – appeared behind the first…

[sachmo71]

With a bellowing cry, Soriun spurred his mount into a charge, heading straight for the smaller pig.

I'd have to look up the charge rules, but I believe I have some bonus or a feat of some sort I can use. I'm charging the smaller one to avoid running down Kevan.

[JAG]

Pig, thought Baldar sardonically, that's a bloody huge boar! He shifted nervously on his feet as he watched the Wemic try to sooth the beast. The face on the creature was that out of a nightmare, twisted in rage and sporting two tusks that each looked at least forearm length. He heard the creature bellow in fury and realized that the Wemic would not be able to control the beast. There was no time to waste. Baldar dropped the pouch and raised his arms above his head. He brought his hands together, palms facing outward, as he intoned the words to his spell: "Printakus mal kel hatta!" He felt the tingle of magic infuse his body from head to toe as a bright pulsing light emerged from his palms and he aimed it as best he could towards the boar's eyes. As the spell power left his body, he felt slightly weak and disoriented as he always did following the loss of magic within him, so he only had minimal time to realize he may have erred with his choice of spell when he saw the second boar emerge from the brush...

Baldar casts Flare.

[Breeze]

Assuming the second beast Baldur is refering to is the baby pig, (not another large pig that wasn't seen until this point), Benton does the following:

Benton watches the dwarf charge the smaller pig, then he hears the wizard cast his spell. Taking Baldar's instructions to heart, Benton stayed firmly planted in place until the bolt of energy passed his shoulder. Benton, knew from working with wizards in the past that Baldar would need a short period of recovery, so he moves in on the pig on a line that possitions his body between the animal and the wizard.

[JAG]

Originally Posted by Breeze

Assuming the second beast Baldur is refering to is the baby pig, (not another large pig that wasn't seen until this point), Benton does the following:

It was. Sorry it wasn't clear.

[Breeze]

It's fine, I'd just hate to move in on the big pig and leave your character exposed. I never know when Coug is going to drop a hint to someone through PM.

[WSUCougar]

As his companions sprang into action, Puli took in the situation as emotionlessly as he could. Though he knew he could deal the huge pig some stunning blows, he realized that others in the group were better suited to engaging it directly. He thus moved tentatively forward in the wake of the charging dwarf upon his war pony, ready to assist.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I’m going to wait on the wemic and the bard before advancing things any further and indicating the effects of your actions.

Good stuff, guys!

[Breeze]

Somebody call Daedelus and tell him that his Wemic is about to miss the fun.

[MikeVic]

As per instructions, Mavirr stood beside Baldar, although it seemed apparent that no other boars would attack from the sides.

"What a story to tell! I am in charge of guarding a wizard's life. This is indeed one for the stories! Baldar, fear not. I will guard against attacks while you recover!"

Mavirr gave a quick nod to Baldar, and got in a crouched position. He looked from side-to-side, in case any other boars did come out from the sides.

[MikeVic]

Just letting you guys know that normally I would not be able to post at this time... I am taking a full course-load of summer courses, and am at university during this time usually. Something to keep in mind, in case you guys have to wait on me in the morning/afternoon.

[Breeze]

Gentlemen, just a note. I'll be out of town this weekend. I'm going to send Coug instructions on how to manuver Benton in the battle.

[JAG]

Originally Posted by Breeze

Somebody call Daedelus and tell him that his Wemic is about to miss the fun.

I'm not sure one could call getting impaled by a giant wild boar fun.

[Breeze]

Aw...come on - Where is you since of adventure?

[daedalus]

Disappointed that there would be bloodshed today, Kevan knew he had no time to waste. After a brief prayer to Lord Firemane for his protection in the upcoming battle, the Wemic rushes out to meet the beast, hoping to get to stop the charge before it can begin. With a roar, Kevan attacks with his quarterstaff and his two front claws.

[daedalus]

Originally Posted by Breeze

Somebody call Daedelus and tell him that his Wemic is about to miss the fun.

Sorry, fellas. Was stuck at work all day before falling asleep on the bus and continuing that nap as soon as I stepped in the door.

Originally Posted by JAG

I'm not sure one could call getting impaled by a giant wild boar fun.

Could be . . . interesting.

[MikeVic]

Since it's been three days, I just want to make sure I'm not the only one waiting for the boar's next action?

[JAG]

It's a very slow flash of light headed for the boar's eyes. Don't worry, I'm sure Coug will get to it when he gets a chance...although in case he didn't notice that you and daedalus had already conveyed your actions, this will either be his notice or a reminder that we're all dying to find out that we're hopefully not dying.

[WSUCougar]

As the agitated boar snarled with fury and the wemic moved in to attack, Baldar’s magical flare burst directly in front of the beast’s face. The creature reeled a bit, and Kevan pressed in with his initial attack, bring the quarterstaff in a powerful downward swipe. But the boar shifted suddenly, and the blow missed, as did the wemic’s slashing attacks with its forepaws. As the dazzled beast prepared to attack its adversary, in charged Benton Gale, wielding his longsword. Sweeping in on the wemic’s right, the paladin landed a slashing hit on the beast’s hide. The boar screamed in pain, and then lunged at Kevan with its tusks, missing him narrowly.

Farther to the right, Soriun charged toward the lesser boar upon his war pony, swinging his axe. Unfortunately, the animal evaded the blow, yet there was Puli, whirling his quarterstaff in a blur of motion. Striking with the added intent to stun, the old Kir monk hammered the neck of the beast, but despite the blow the animal shook it off with only minor damage. A second backward swing missed entirely. The boar then swiped in retaliation without effect.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Kevan and Benton are side by side engaging the big boar, Soriun (mounted) and Puli the lesser boar. Baldar and Mavirr are around 10 paces back from the action. Both boars have been hit but are only slightly wounded.

[daedalus]

Satisfied that he has stopped the boar's initial charge, Kevan digs in and strikes with his quarterstaff again.

[Breeze]

Benton was surprised when the Boar focused his rage on the Wemic Ranger, however the surprise didn't slow the seasoned Paladin's attack. Benton, taking advantage of the distraction quickly swung again at the beast.

[JAG]

"Get away from me you idiot! Help the Wemic," Baldar snarled at the Bard with as much force as he could muster. Baldar could think of nothing more humiliating than anyone thinking that troubadour was needed to protect him. He breathed in deeply trying to concentrate on his surroundings. The smaller boar didn't appear very hurt, but he felt sure the monk and dwarf could handle it. The larger one, despite the slow trickle of blood from its side, was still a major danger even with the Wemic and paladin engaging it...in fact, it could be even more dangerous enraged from the attack Add to that that the Wemic was the most vital member of the party (outside of himself, of course) and it was clear Baldar needed to take aim at the larger boar. He dismissed his original idea of the Sleep spell, as the rest of the party was too deeply engaged in fighting the boars and he couldn’t risk getting them caught in its area of effect. Going with his alternate plan, he stepped a little closer to the larger boar, still keeping his distance but trying to circle around to get more of a clear shot.

“Gale, Wemic, move to the boar’s flanks! Quickly!” He stopped, having attempted to move into position as best as he could while still acting with as much alacrity as his weakened state would allow. He extended his robed arm to point as best he could at the boar and chanted “Logasha mertuse, nogashi gret lalameintaka!” Baldar trembled in ecstasy as he felt the familiar rush of energy infuse his body and watched as bluish-white projectiles flew forth from his outstretched finger towards the boar.

Baldar casts Magic Missle at the large boar (hopefully ).

[sachmo71]

"I cast magic missile!'

"At what?"

"At the darkness!"

*Geeks laughing*


Sorry.

Soriun quickly turns his pony, checks for allies that may be in his path, and seeing none, charges to boar again.

[MikeVic]

Mavirr eyed Baldar after he ordered him to help Kevan.

"Aye-aye captain! If this is what you want, then I will do so. But if a boar attacks from the sides or back, or a bee flies at you during a spell, don't blame me!" Mavirr grined and winked at Baldar, who was too busy casting a spell to notice his comments.

With Mavirr being 10 paces back, he quickly ran towards the larger boar, closing the gap between the two. As he ran towards the boar, Mavirr pulled out a trumpet from the back of his pants and blasted an energetic tune, which made the other heroes look even more heroic...


Mavirr uses Perform to Inspire the Courage of the other heroes.

Mavirr also uses the feat "Dodge" on the larger boar.

[Breeze]

Hey, isn't that baseball game over yet?

I'm looking forward to smoking some short ribs...

[JAG]

Short ribs? I thought you went after the big pig...

[WSUCougar]

Maneuvering in the face of the lesser boar, Puli took measure of the scene. The dwarf, Soriun, had charged past the beast and was negotiating his war pony through the thick underbrush and turning for another attack. The boar seemed concerned at its flanks being threatened, and the monk took advantage, dancing in swiftly with a whirl of his quarterstaff. His initial swipe just missed, but the return swing smacked the beast solidly in the shoulder. The creature retaliated with a flailing lunge which the monk easily avoided. Soriun then struck from behind with his waraxe, a driving blow that knocked the beast to the ground and opened a gaping wound in its back. If not a mortal blow, it had certainly incapacitated the lesser boar.

On the left, Benton Gale heard the wizard call out, and stepping slightly to the side, drove his sword again at the larger beast with good effect. Just as he felt the weapon bite into the thick hide of the boar, he heard Baldar chanting, and braced himself again for the magic that was sure to follow. The chanting ceased, replaced by two bluish bolts of energy that raced from the wizard’s fingers, snaked past the paladin and wemic, and impacted upon the broad form of the boar with an audible thumping. The animal screeched its distress - SKA-REEEEEEEEEE! – yet rallied immediately with renewed ferocity!

Now here was the bard Mavirr, tooting a compelling tune on his trumpet and sliding in between the wemic and the paladin, his rapier at hand. The beast was thrashing about, enraged at the magical wounds it had just received, and Mavirr’s rapier thrusts failed to land. Kevan the wemic plunged in with his quarterstaff, but again the animal evaded any significant hits. Then it struck back.

Initially, it appeared as if the wemic was again to be its target, but with its forelegs planted it brought its tusks suddenly across to the side, and right through Benton’s shield arm. The bright white of the tusks as they penetrated was sharply contrasted with the red of the paladin’s blood as they were withdrawn; eyes wide with surprise and then pain, the big Prytian warrior staggered under the telling blow, his arm ripped open and an ample gore-wound in his side. A triumphant snarl from the great boar carried across the grove.