Second Sphere

Enclave => Online Roleplaying => Topic started by: Waaaghpower on May 08, 2015, 02:54:28 AM

Title: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 08, 2015, 02:54:28 AM
Three hours to midnight, and the skies were angry. Thunder was raging outside, echoing through the city of Dunwall, kicking up waves and keeping the people shuttered in their homes as they waited for the weather to clear.

Inside the pub, McAnally's, things were far more calm. It was in a stone cellar, preventing any draft, and the atmosphere was one of cool, calm, quiet. Aside from the bartender, a tall man who could have been any age between thirty and fifty, the bar only had one occupant, a wiry man in black robes, sitting against the back wall with a table in front of him, four extra chairs set out with five mugs of room temperature brown ale set out. His age was hard to guess, if only because his face was covered in a patina of bruising, healed some by time but still needing a while longer before they'd be gone.

David sipped from his mug, waiting for the others to show up. The meeting time was only for them to show that evening, and with the weather he expected delays, but it was starting to get late. He was gazing into the bottom of his mug and beginning to contemplate asking the bartender for another drink when the bell above the door rang. Briefly exposing the room to the weather outside, there was a rush of wind as a figure hurried in, closing it behind them.

Three to go, David thought, looking to see who it was.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 08, 2015, 03:27:10 AM
Franklin entered the room, his suit covered by a rich purple hooded cloak. His Electrum staff in one hand he looked around the room as though seeking a target. Seeing the man in black and the arrangement of chairs, he moved to sit down opposite him.

"I know who you are. You know who I am. You have successfully engaged my services. What is it that you need?"

There was no rudeness in his voice, just a simple, business like tone of a man who had a job to do.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 08, 2015, 03:58:40 AM
David lifted his glass, gesturing to the mug sitting in front of Franklin's own person. "Sit. Have a drink. It's very good." He set his own mug down, leaning back slightly. "All in good time."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 08, 2015, 04:02:07 AM
Franklin looked down at the drink and mechanically picked up the vessel and drank from it. He found it to be not unpleasant. Still, his boss wanted him to drink. So drink he would.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 08, 2015, 07:06:21 AM
Jane was the next to arrive, wearing her armour to protect her from the weather. Rather than heading immediately to the table with the others, she first went over to the bar and ordered a glass of water. after removing the armour, she finally took a seat at the table. "I presume you're the ones who asked to meet me?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 08, 2015, 07:19:33 AM
David nodded, glancing down at his glass again, frowning, before using it to gesture between the two, to the early arrival and the newcomer respectively, and then in reverse. "Franklin, Jane. Jane, Franklin. You're having water, then?"

As she pulled out her chair to sit down, Jane noticed a few specks of white dust which had fallen onto the seat.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 08, 2015, 08:33:55 AM
Ignoring the dust (such things being common in her workshop) Jane sat down. "It's pretty much all I drink. No particular reason, just a habit I got into years ago. Now, I don't believe you introduced yourself?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 08, 2015, 09:23:41 AM
The door opened agan, a large warhammer with cogs and cables jutting out and snaking around it appeared first. Then came through a man with a mechanical exoskeleton on the arm that held the warhammer. He had a large device strapped to his back, covered by a leather sheet. On his left arm was a buckler, straped slightly up the arm to allow his and motion and control.

He quickly spotted the group, and made his way toward them.
"Good evening everyone." Korus tipped the front of his hood with his left hand before pulling it back to show his face. He had jet black hair, and a well groomed goatee and moustache on his face. His eyes spoke of years of happiness, but seemed duller than what they used to be. He had a wide smile beaming to the entire group.

As he made level with the table, he fiddled with some connections on the wrist of his right hand, turned the warhamer on its head and setr it down against the table, beore pulling himself a chair.

"Allow me to introduce myself" Korus turn to the other two of the group. "I am Korus Hensen, a pleasure to be working with some well equipped individuals."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 08, 2015, 12:50:05 PM
"What's all this about then?" asked Simo as he entered the room. The others turned in surprise, they hadn't heard the door.

"Came in the back way" Simo pointed out in response to the puzzled looks. He grabbed a tankard and drank from it, putting his feet up on the table as he did so. then paused for a moment, took a quick headcount, noted that the seats were all full "Waste not, want not" he shrugged and reached for the spare tankard too.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 08, 2015, 03:30:11 PM
David's hand shot out like an arrow to block Simo from taking Jane's tankard, sliding the mug away and towards his own person. "Don't drink too much," he warned. "We may need to travel quick and far tonight."

Then, left hand resting on the table for support, he pushed himself to his feet. Nodding slightly over to the bartender, who walked to the door and turned the lock, David then turned back and gestured to the group as a whole with Jane's mug of ale before taking a short drink from it. "All of you, you've been gathered here today for a reason. The situation in the East, as it were, is growing troublesome to the point of being unbearable. War is brewing, even in the works, but we cannot compete with the better armed and armored men of the West while they sit in their fortresses and watch our petty Lordships squabble over scraps. That's why we need the five of us - Franklin Hall, Jane Edgely, Korus Hensen, Simo Barton," he gave a small directional movement of the mug as he said each name to identify the four of them, before taking another drink by way of gesturing to himself. "David Undertow. It's a pleasure to meet you all."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 08, 2015, 04:34:03 PM
Franklin gave little more than a curt nod.

So, killing warlords and their men. A job he had been tasked with many many times. Perhaps he would even be seeing some former employers. Oh well. This was the job now, but he might have some useful information about fortress layouts and maybe even be able to talk his way in past the guards.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 08, 2015, 04:48:49 PM
"So assassination, sabotage and other covert missions?" Jane considered this. "Is this one specific mission, or a variety of smaller ones?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 08, 2015, 04:58:45 PM
"Four," David said, nodding. "Four missions. Well... Five, but four. And we won't be needing to kill anyone if we are very, very lucky. We're taking down fortresses. Korus, Jane, your experience with Spirit technology makes you both invaluable, not to mention your combat prowess. As for you to..." He turned to Franklin and Simo. "Three of us should do the job. You'll both be paired up with one of our non-sorcerer friends, I'll be working alone. Take your pick either way."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 08, 2015, 05:13:05 PM
"You know what I do David. You know how I work. I do not have time to babysit someone. Have any of you ever worked with a Graviton Sorcerer before? Do you understand the risks and the dangers?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 08, 2015, 05:21:50 PM
David shook his head, taking a moment before he said, "Do you think I hired you to babysit? I assure you, nobody here needs a caretaker to protect them any more than you do. And besides..." He set down his mug, leaning across the table a bit to put himself close to Franklin. "It's what you're being paid to do. Are you backing out on my already?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 08, 2015, 05:25:00 PM
"Don't insult me David. You bring me here and introduce a bunch of children. What did you expect me to think? If that is the job, it will be done."

Franklin took a sip from his tankard.

"So. Where to first?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 08, 2015, 05:48:25 PM
"And more importantly, how much do we get paid?" Jane disliked the current balance of power, but she wasn't going into a dangerous situation for free.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 08, 2015, 05:59:35 PM
David returned to his seat, keeping one hand on his mug and one on the table. "Deposits of currency have been left at various drop points. You'll be given the locations of these points upon completion of the mission. Should I die before I can tell you where the currency is, you'll find the locations written down in my journal along with a sizeable amount of money on my person to buy you transport to wherever you may wish to go. Due to the danger and risk involved, each deposit contains one hundred Gold Swords, along with a supply of gemstones and several ingots of gold should currency fail once war breaks out." He took another drink, wincing a bit as he put the glass down.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 08, 2015, 06:34:47 PM
"Careful who you call a child, old man" Simo replied without so much as looking up

"I'm young, yes, but I could take you out in a single shot before you even knew I was there. If you doubt that, you clearly don't know how hard it is to get a rifle like this from the military" he added, patting the rifle he'd rested against the table.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 08, 2015, 07:30:11 PM
"Can't say this was what I was expecting, but I've never been one to shy away from a challenging project" Korus smiled at David. "Do I assume we're destroying some Spirit powered devices?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 08, 2015, 08:34:56 PM
Intelligence checks:
Jane - 2 (Needs 69)
Korus - 48 (Needs 50)
Simo - 17 (Needs 30)
Franklin - 15 (Needs 55)

Mind check:
David - 41 (Needs 45)

David smiled a bit, the expression a little odd behind swollen lips. "This is what we're doing," he said, planting both hands on the table, closing his eyes, and focusing.

After a moment, the table began to glow, and three symetrical   patterns of runes appeared in glowing hard light, each moving in an almost clockwork fashion, all miniaturized so as to fit on the table.

There was a moment of silent comprehension as everyone around the table stared, taking in the image and translating the runes into an effect in their heads.

"Brothers save us..." Jane whispered, realizing what she was looking at. Even Franklin was impressed.

"Is this what I think it is?" Korus asked, glancing up at David.

In response, David simply twisted his hands, and the image shifted to a a glowing white-light image of a great city with impressively thick walls and defenses. In demonstration, three gouting beams of fire struck up from corners of the city, and as the flames reached their peak, the walls of the city came crumbling down in a shower of light which vanished as it tumbled off the table.

"Any questions?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 08, 2015, 10:51:43 PM
"When do we get started?" Korus asked with a smile.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 08, 2015, 10:55:19 PM
"Alright, target acquired. Where do we begin?" Simo added as he took another drink from his tankard.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 09, 2015, 01:44:26 AM
Franklin took in the display. It was well executed certainly. Still, the sooner he got on with it, the better.

He stood and repositioned his cloak and hood, took his staff in hand.

"I am ready to go. Whomever is coming with me make yourself known. You will need to keep up."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 09, 2015, 01:55:01 AM
"Sit down," David advised, rolling his eyes as he sat down himself, letting the spell fade."We aren't going anywhere with the weather at it is." Finishing Jane's drink, he turned to Korus and Simo. "We strike out when the storm clears, riding west."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 09, 2015, 02:01:03 AM
"Hardened mercenaries, kept at bay by inclement weather. Truly a force to be feared."

Franklin sat back down again.

"First we will have to travel quickly and far tonight, now we must wait so we do not get wet."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 09, 2015, 02:10:08 AM
David raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Perhaps you missed a second calling as a jester," he commented. "Show a little respect to your betters, if you would. There's a lady present."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 09, 2015, 02:18:35 AM
"Very well, we will sit. We will wait. You are the one hiring me. The longer I work, the more you have to pay me."

He drained the last few dregs from his drink.

"As for the lady, I would be MOST disappointed if she needed special treatment on account of her gender."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 09, 2015, 02:23:24 AM
"The point of a lady is not that you have to give special treatment," David advised, "But that we give it anyways."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 09, 2015, 02:29:23 AM
"I have always found that women are more than capable without being babied. Now, if we are to remain in this place for any substantial length of time, I shall see about getting something to eat."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 09, 2015, 02:31:57 AM
"Do try the steak sandwich," David offered, smiling pleasantly. "It's the best in town, if my opinion means anything."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 09, 2015, 02:36:16 AM
"I will never turn down good steak. Steak is the most important meal of the day."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 09, 2015, 08:03:22 AM
Jane watched in amusement as the two sorcerors bickered. Heading over to the bartender, she ordered gammon and eggs before sitting back down again. She hoped they'd continue; dinner and a show was always good.

"All things considered, I think I'll pair with... Simo, right? If that's ok with you."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 09, 2015, 12:22:17 PM
"Fine by me" Simo replied "We'll work out a plan that suits both our talents as we go. In the meantime, steak and potatoes please, bartender."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 09, 2015, 12:36:09 PM
Korus look on Franlin and David's bickering.
"I guess I'm with Franklin then" he said more to Simo and Jane. "Though if they kill eachother its going to be difficult."
Korus got up, leaving his hammer resting against the table. He knew it was late, and didn't feel hangry enough for a slab of meat, but some fod sounded good for the moment. He ordered a broth with a small loafs of bread.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 09, 2015, 10:38:20 PM
A few minutes went by, and then the bartender set four plates of food on the counter of the bar, leaving it to be picked up by the respective patrons who had ordered. "Tab's covered," he mentioned, before anyone could have a chance to try and pay.

"Perhaps we should take a moment to introduce ourselves more thoroughly," David suggested to the group. "Share our strengths and weaknesses, help things run well once we need to start working together in the field."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 09, 2015, 11:03:43 PM
Korus picked up his broth and bread, and thanked the bartender.
"Not much about me to know." He started as he sat down and tore a chunk of bread to tear into his broth. "Been practicing and merchandising my craft for a good few years now. But the West seems to not like entrepaneurs like myself, so raw materials have been becoming ever increasingly expensive." He paused to have a couple mouthfuls. "Decided to close up shop before I lost everything, and built a majority of my gear from the materials I had left in the shop, and in my own house. This warhammer used to be a broom, makes for a sturdy handle and platform for all the mechanism on the business end."

He finished his story and begain to eat his food in a polite fashion.

"What is everyone elses story?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 09, 2015, 11:09:12 PM
"my life story is not important. You do not need to know. Still in the interest of civility. I am a mercenary. Have been for over 60 years. I am known by most as sorcerer and by a select few as wizard. I do not work to make friends. I build contacts and complete my tasks. I do the job, and then I get paid."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 09, 2015, 11:21:58 PM
"Born in the country, raised as a hunter. Found I have some magical ability as a kid, developed mainly in terms of survival and hunting skills, as you might expect from a countrysider. Joined the military, got re-assigned to sniper. Got given this rifle as a reward." Simo said "Anything else you wanna know, just ask. I keep things brief by habit but I'm not averse to talking about things."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 09, 2015, 11:34:08 PM
"My family used to be farmers, but with the new machines we went obsolete. I started learning how the farming machines worked when I was quite young, and eventually trained as a mechanic, with side jobs as a blacksmith and runic engraver. The material costs are ridiculous, but I kept myself afloat somehow. As for strengths and weaknesses... I can build, repair and run pretty much any common machine, I made my own spirit armour, and I have made some fun little electricity weapons that I'm sure will come in useful."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 09, 2015, 11:59:10 PM
Franklin's Sense Disturbance: 89

David listened quietly, offering a little introduction for himself. "Well, you all know me a little, at least. Career Wizard. I'm a useful hand in a fight, and I'll be taking care of the primary rune and the power supply for the spell." The handle of the bar door rattled, and he looked up with a start. The bartender glanced over, too, reaching under the bar. Franklin could tell there was someone out there, but without focusing more sharply the rain was interfering too much with his magic.

A second went by. The door handle stopped rattling.

Cautiously, David continued. "I also may have a warrant out for my arrest in this Lordshi-"

With a loud 'Crash!', the door blew off its hinges, four men bursting in, rushing to stumble through the doorway and line up. The bartender's hand came out from under the bar holding a shotgun, but he didn't aim it. Two of the men were armed with swords, two with rifles, and all of them were wearing heavy steel plate armor, those with guns leveled them towards David. The lead man raised his sword, pointing it as well. "David Undertow! You are under arrest for conspiracy to commit crimes against the state and kingdom. Come quietly!"

Glancing from side to side, David shrugged. "Time to earn your paycheck, unless you want me to handle it."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 10, 2015, 12:07:48 AM
"Nah, all together at this point" Simo replied rising from his seat and turning to bring his rifle to bear.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 10, 2015, 12:10:54 AM
Franklin stood.

"Allow me, please. Experience before aggression if you don't mind."

"Gentlemen. . ."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 10, 2015, 12:19:13 AM
Korus had his hand on the shaft of his thunderhamer, but hadn't connected it yet. He watched Franklin stand toward the guards,and in turn slowly got up himself, pulling his over his head again to obscure his face.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 10, 2015, 07:07:04 AM
Jane stood, easing out of the line of fire while surreptitiously drawing her shock wand.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 10, 2015, 07:57:25 AM
As the swordsman behind the lead man watched, cautiously, the group all exchanged looks and seemed to agree on what they were going to do. Franklin was the clear focus of everyone's attention, everyone at least who wasn't looking at David.

David, for his part, raised his left hand and calmly channeled energy into his shield bracelet, raising an invisible wall of force around him. "Good luck," he commented, though it was unclear to whom.

"David Undertow, put down your hand and come with us!" The lead swordsman shouted, unimpressed. "Everyone else, stand down! You have no part in this!" Specifically to Franklin, he added, "Sir, sit down. This isn't about you."

Jane quietly slipped out of her chair and backed away, wanting to be free of the line of fire in case shooting did start. As she did so, Franklin shook his head, hand working behind his back in a poor attempt to conceal the wand he was channeling energy into. "Oh, but it is. This man is my employer. If you threaten him, I'm involved."

"Drop the weapon!" The swordsman shouted, as the rifleman to his left raised his weapon and aimed at Franklin, waiting for the sign to attack. Korus took this moment to follow Jane's example and slipped off to the other side of the room, quietly ducking behind a table. Simo, meanwhile, just knelt behind the table he was at and drew his own weapon, just before the rifleman on the right raised his own rifle and steadied it at David.


All hell broke loose.


Nervous at the prepared wand, the swordsman who had been staying back leapt forward, swinging down at Franklin and missing wide on the right. The lead swordsman then tried to sidestep and move towards David, who had drawn out a wooden staff the length of his arm and planted it against the back of his chair, though no spells were forthcoming.

From her cover, Jane was too far away to hit anyone with her Shock wand, but she drew it out anyways and prepared to use it as soon as the moment arose. As she did, she had an excellent vantage point to watch Franklin spin with his wand, whipping it out at the swordsman who was moving in towards David, sword raised to attack. With a word, the spell flew out, slamming into the swordsman and sending him careening towards Jane. He crashed to the ground, stunned, groaning, and unable to get up. Before he would have a chance to, Jane raised her shock wand and sent a jolt of Spirit coursing through him. Steel armor didn't do a thing to resist the jolt as it hit just right, power coursing through his body and frying his brain like a hardboiled egg.

With his back to the rifleman, though, Franklin never even saw the shot coming. The rifle boomed loud in the confined quarters of the basement, hitting him square in the back and sending him stumbling a step forward, grunting in pain as the bullet tore a chunk of flesh from his body. He stayed on his feet and overcame the pain, but it was a nasty injury.

Korus slipped the power cable into his hammer, getting ready to attack the moment he saw his chance. Simo, similarly, raised his rifle and got ready to fire, taking careful aim to avoid wasting ammo in such confined quarters.

The rifleman aimed at David tried to shoot, and his aim was dead on, but the bullet bounced harmlessly off of the magic shield David had raised.

The swordman still standing lifted his sword in a heavy swing at Franklin, the kind of swing that would have put him in the dirt had it connected. It was aimed true, an attack straight at his neck, one an executioner could have been proud of... Until Franklin ducked, spinning to face his attacker. His hands raised in a defensive move, he chanted something vicious sounding and started to bring forth a shield of gravitational energy that would keep the three remaining guards at bay. He miscalculated, though, his injury and his attacker both throwing his focus, and as he dodged back from the attack he unleashed the spell in a cockeyed and poorly done manner. Instead of raising an invisible shield of gravitational energy, he instead multiplied the gravity where he stood. Before he could catch his balance, the sudden downward pull swept him off his feet and he went crashing into the ground with the same force as if he had fallen off a high building.

Still, as the rifleman who had fired at Franklin started to reload, hoping to take advantage of the Sorcerer's weakened and disabled state, Korus struck. Leaping out from his cover, hammer raised in both hands, he brought it crashing down with all his strength. The rifleman looked up and tried to dodge, but it was far too late and the hammer came in like a wrecking ball, breaking all of his ribs and turning his internal organs to soup beneath the steel armor.

Simultaneously, Simo fired his rifle at the swordsman who had tried and failed twice to attack Franklin. The shot was almost impossible to miss... Which was why Simo was left flabbergasted as the Swordsman, moving a little erratically due to the shift in gravity, managed to stumble away from the bullet just in time and save his skin through pure luck. The bullet struck the door, embedding itself in the wood harmlessly.

The other rifleman, the standing one, reloaded his weapon and surveyed the carnage.


FINAL RESULT:
David has burned 12 Energy.
Franklin has taken 16 Wounds, he has 9 left.
Franklin has burned 23 Energy as well.
One Rifleman is dead.
The Lead Swordsman is dead.
Simo needs to reload.
Jane's Shock wand burned four energy.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 10, 2015, 05:27:31 PM
Korus turned so his left side was facing towards the rifleman and raised his buckler level with his neck. He held the Thunderhammer one-hand, ad made it ready for a wide swing.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 11, 2015, 12:05:51 AM
With the speed and grace of a trained expert, Simo dropped his rifle to the table and drew his pistol, leveling it at the nearest swordsman and preparing to fire.

Before he could pull the trigger, though, David threw himself to his feet, ramming his staff forward and unleashing the spell he had been preparing since the fight started. Two quiet 'Pops' could be heard as a few important blood vessels imploded, and both men went still. Blood started trickling out of their eyes, and both fell to the floor in a crumpled heap.

Jane, readying herself to leap from cover to attack the swordsman, faltered. Korus lowered his shield, a bit surprised at the sudden disappearance of the threat. He shifted the hammer to both hands once again, just in case, but the two men didn't move.

Franklin had his wand raised and a spell on the tip of his tongue, but with no targets to hit, he let the thoughts of gravitational force fade and pushed himself to his feet.



Final results:
Swordsman 2 and Rifleman 2 are both dead.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 13, 2015, 09:33:25 PM
"Well, that's that dealt with," said Jane, averting her eyes from the sight. She wasn't unused to seeing death and violence, of course, but she didn't have to like it. "Perhaps it would be wise to move on from here?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 13, 2015, 10:16:18 PM
"Depending on David's reputation, they may expect the apprehension to take time." Korus thought aloud, his left hand rubbing his chin. "But theymay also have eyes watching the Inn for any people coming and going, and to see when he arrived."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 13, 2015, 10:23:50 PM
David pushed up from his chair and walked quickly to Franklin's side, checking his injury and helping the sorcerer to his feet. "Flesh wound," he said, "You'll be fine. A bandage to stop any blood loss, keep it clean."

Turning to Korus, he gave a slight cocky grin. "Depending on my reputation?" He asked, almost smiling, before changing the subject. "An illusion will be difficult with the rain, my magic will get soaked up too quickly. It's probably best to move out as quickly as we can. Simo, you go out first to check for any men watching the door. If it's clear, signal us and we'll follow quickly."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 14, 2015, 01:52:51 AM
"Tis but a scratch. I will be fine."

Truth be told it wasn't fine. But Franklin would be damned if he was going to let on to it.

"The sooner we can move on from this place the better, now that we are compromised. Do we know where we are going from here?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 14, 2015, 10:00:29 PM
"I think you missed his full name Korus" Simo pointed out with a smile. He checked his rifle and pistol were loaded again and then started surreptitiously looking out of the windows for anyone who may be watching before heading out of the door.

Spot check (https://www.wizards.com/dnd/dice/dice.htm)
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 16, 2015, 10:56:17 PM
Korus readied his hammer in a two-handed grip, and stood next to the door.
"What do your eyes see?" He asked, though felt the question was missing something.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 17, 2015, 12:33:22 AM
"The streets are clear," Simo said, glancing out before scouting out the door.

Wind whipped up and a little rain got in, but after a moment he returned. "We're good, for now."

"I have horses just outside the city limits," David said, tossing a gold sword on the barcounter to pay for damages. "We ride to Ironbore."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 17, 2015, 01:22:11 PM
"Alright, gonna have to go in 2 groups to avoid detection more easily." Simo pointed out. "I suggest going in the pairs we agreed upon with David joining one of the groups."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 18, 2015, 09:19:41 PM
"Sounds sensible to me," said Jane, donning her armour that she'd removed when she arrived. "Let's get moving."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 19, 2015, 06:11:25 AM
"The horses are by the north gate," David said. "I'm sure no guards will be looking for you until someone pieces together what happens here, but Simo's right. We'll move more quickly in pairs, and if the three of us were to get captured, having the other two free to perform a jailbreak will be helpful. Who wants me?" He glanced from Simo and Jane to the Korus and the oddly silent Franklin.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 19, 2015, 06:43:54 AM
"Travel with whom you wish, but let us move now. I have no desire to be shot at again in the near future."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 19, 2015, 11:26:37 AM
"David, you're with Jane and I" stated Simo. They could ill afford to wait to resolve indecisiveness, and Simo knew his stealth and survival training was the best bet for getting out undetected, though still not a guarantee.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 19, 2015, 04:04:12 PM
Putting his left hand on Franklins shoulder.
"We'll follow after you shortly then." Krous said, then stepped away to make sure his power pack was still connected to the hamme and do basic checks of his gear before leaving the Inn.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on May 19, 2015, 10:14:55 PM
Franklin was always amazed that supposedly experiences mercenaries kept need to check their gear was in order. Surely they should know?

"We should take a different route to them, just enough that we won't all be ambushed together."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 19, 2015, 10:27:35 PM
David nodded, but walked back to the table, putting his shoulder under one lip and hefting it to its side, where the chalk runes had been carved to allow for his light display a little bit earlier. Taking a rag from a pocket, he wiped the chalk away. "Jane, Simo, I'll lead the way. Korus, Franklin, stay away from the coast and we shouldn't bump into each other. If either group needs help, hoot once like a brown owl and twice like a barn owl."

Crossing the distance to the door, he tipped the hood of his robes to the bartender before swinging it open and walking out into the rainy night.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 19, 2015, 10:36:09 PM
Jane paused to toss some money to the bartender for a tip, then followed the sorceror
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 20, 2015, 07:53:11 PM
Random Encounter:
Jane, David, and Simo: 1 (Encounter on 4+)
Franklin and Korus: 3 (Encounter on 6+)

Slipping into the night, the two groups crept out the door, splitting up in direction and heading their own ways. The rain provided all the cover they needed, and with visibility as low as it was, nobody hampered their travel.

Walls on the edge of the city proved little difficult, as the guards who should have been at the door by the gate were mysteriously absent. Horses were, indeed, tied up in a small stable outside the city's edge. Again, these guards were mysteriously absent. Rendezvousing some thirty minutes after they had split up, little had happened worthy of note.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 20, 2015, 08:18:19 PM
"So do we have a timetable to work to?" Korus asked aloud to David. "Do we have all the time the Guards and Soldiers will alow us, or are we just part of a larger scheme?"
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on May 23, 2015, 08:28:53 PM
"Faster would be better," David said, saddling his horse. "But they won't move until we've completed our mission. Going against western states with full defenses and preparations would be suicide. As quickly as we can manage, but we don't want to rush."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on May 25, 2015, 08:54:48 AM
"So, slow and steady, but not a snail's pace?" Simo replied as he made sure his weapons were in easy reach and mounted his horse. "I think we can manage that."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Mabbz on May 28, 2015, 01:00:07 PM
Jane mounted up as well. "What are we waiting for? Let's get going."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on May 28, 2015, 08:31:51 PM
Korus mounted up as well. He had to control the horse one handed, as his hammer couldn't be holstered. He rested the business end on his shoulder, so to make sure the weight was centered.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on June 06, 2015, 11:17:10 PM
As the others mounted up Simo rode ahead to act as scout. Once the terrain grew more wild he was considering whether or not to ride through the undergrowth rather than on the road. On the plus side it would make him harder to spot to anyone watching the road, however it was also noisier meaning he'd have to slow the group down. From what he could gather time wasn't a major issue, but it was still a factor. Just as well he had a few miles to consider his options he mused.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on June 09, 2015, 03:14:01 AM
Spoiler

Random Encounter Roll: (1-10, Higher = Worse)
9

Simo's Scouting (Talented +30, Out of Combat +10, Difficulty -20): 90 (Fail)


Without much more delay, the whole of the group mounted up and rode off. The rain began to clear after an hour had passed, and by the time midnight rolled around the skies were beginning to open up on a bright yellow moon, perhaps a day away from being full.

Wolves could be heard howling in the distance, putting teeth on edge amongst the group. As they rode on, the howling seemed to approach, closer and closer, moment by moment.

A little past two in the morning, finally, the trap was sprung. Just as Simo was riding back to the group to check in and report that he had seen nothing, the wolves came out from the trees, running at a dead silent sprint towards the group.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on June 09, 2015, 10:27:36 PM
As the wolves emerged from the trees Simo called out to the others. He knew his rifle would be useless at this range, especially given the time it'd take to get it from his back. Without a second thought he drew his pistol and fired at the closest of the beasts.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on June 09, 2015, 10:30:26 PM
Korus dropped his hammer low, and took a firm grip of the reigns with his left hand. He did his best to steady his stead, and prepared to smash aside any enemy that came for him.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on June 11, 2015, 03:28:29 AM
"Wolves!" Simo shouted, a little belatedly, as he rode back towards the others. He barely made it in time before the beasts closed in.

A particularly husky wolf with a streak of white on his muzzle closed in on Korus before skidding to the side, trying at a biting feint to stay out of striking distance. His forepaw slipped, though, and he couldn't pull back in time to dodge Korus's hammer... Which was all well and good, as Korus swung his hammer in a broad sweep, missing regardless as two more wolves, both looking lean and angry, began to close in. Raising his hammer defensively, he watched them carefully.

Jane, meanwhile, raised her spear and discharged a blast of power at the nearest wolf, a scrappy looking pup with a notched ear. The bolt hit squarely just as it leapt at Simo, and the wolf spasmed and failed to land his snapping attack at the gunman.

Towards the back of the group, another starved-looking wolf leapt at Franklin, snapping up at him and ripping with his claws. The leap struck home, and Franklin got a nasty gash across his arm, raising his hand in defense and snarling a word. Unseen force lashed out from the wand on his glove, slamming into the wolf and sending it soaring through the air, several feet back, before it tumbled in the dirt.

David raised his staff in the air, shouting out a word as light blasted from his staff, finally displaying the group with golden-white light to give the others a clear view of the melee. One final wolf held back, shying away from the light, and this left Simo to draw his pistol from a holster, checking it and readying it to fire.


The largest of the wolves, shying away from Franklin's heavy warhammer after his failed feint, instead turned towards the next nearest target: Franklin. Readying himself for a strike, he threw himself forward...

Only to be stopped cold in the air and slammed down into the dirt as Franklin raised a shield of frantic energy around him. It was a sloppy shield, too spread out to efficiently stop that much mass, but he had been in a hurry and the shield served to keep the attack off of the gravity sorcerer.

One of the two scrawny wolves who had closed on Korus snapped at him and missed as the engineer pulled his horse away, but that was only in time for the other wolf, faster and more viscously clever, to leap forward at the horse Korus was riding and rip out its throat. Korus fell with a sound somewhere between a scream and a yell, but he managed to keep from getting trapped beneath the horse and landed with his hammer raised in his defense.

Jane, not content to zap the notch-eared wolf once, let loose with a second blast of intense energy. Once more, the wolf staggered and jerked in a twitchy fashion just as it tried to bite feebly at Simo, the energy making his muscles unresponsive. The bolts didn't seem to be causing too much lasting damage, but the singed hair and twitching muscles made the wolf seem like not too much of a threat. David, with one hand holding up his staff, raised his other hand where the bracelet around his left wrist dangled, tiny silver shields jingling as he raised a magic shield in front of himself and somewhat to his sides, giving a little cover to Jane, but little to Korus who had fallen just further away.

The wolf who had been blasted away by Franklin stayed shyed away at the edge of the magical ring of light, but that was only to give an opening for the last wolf, the one who had stayed back, to charge forward instead. With Franklin's shield sapped of energy in the stopping of the Alpha wolf's charge, this final wolf was able to make it in and give a second gash across the chest to match the one on Franklin's arm.

Simo took careful aim with his pistol.


The Alpha wolf took a glance between Korus and Franklin, eying both. One had swung and missed, the other had slammed the great shaggy beast to the ground with unseen magical energy. It was an easy choice: The alpha bit at Korus, who had no time to raise his hammer to block the beast's biting fangs. At the very least, Korus's attempt to parry put his right arm in the way of the gnashing teeth. It still made it through and hurt like hell, but the metal of the exoskeleton on his arm provided some level of meager protection.

The ferocious wolf who had torn the throat out of Korus's horse, meanwhile, saw Simo and considered him easy prey. Leaping up, he made the gunman stagger a bit as he bit and slashed, causing some injury to the gunman... Until Simo's carefully aimed shot placed a bullet squarely in the wolf's chest at point blank range. It whimpered and fell backwards, stumbling to get away from the painful flash of light and metal that had opened up a nasty injury and was spilling blood down his fur.

Jane, worried about depleting her energy reserves, only held back and watched for an opening, holding her lance defensively as the wolf she had already zapped twice stumbled away, muscles and limbs still twitching badly.

The wolf who had first attacked Franklin and then backed away joined in the fray against Korus, leaping in and taking another biting gnash at the downed engineer. It put another gash on him, which was getting worrisome, and seeing the issue, David stepped in to give him an opening, unleashing a whirlwind of force intended to blow the wolves away. The spell went wild as he tried to hold the light and send the magic wind, though, and the gale of air emanating went wide and lost a lot of its force. It was still enough to give the Alpha wolf a powerful shove which tumbled it into the dirt, but the other wolf assaulting Korus barely seemed to care, and Korus himself got caught in the backlash and was slammed painfully down to one knee to keep from falling entirely. Korus swung his hammer in a defensive manner, but it went wide and got him nowhere.

The other wolf attacking Franklin dodged back in an attempt to get clear of the fray and watch for another opening. Sadly for it, though, Franklin was having none of it. Leaping from his horse, Franklin slammed magical energy into the tip of his staff, and though the staff wasn't exactly built for that kind of magic, it worked. Energy fused with the staff's tip, increasing the mass at the tip of the staff to the point where it weighed more than any normal man could swing as a useful weapon. Fortunately, he didn't have to: The staff was already in motion towards the wolf, swinging down like a golf club. It struck the wolf on the side and sent it flying off like it had been hit with a wrecking ball. It wasn't quite dead, but judging by the saved in front of its chest, it wouldn't take a lot to finish it off.

A breath went by, as everyone considered their options.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on June 22, 2015, 07:45:53 PM
Howling, the largest of the wolves issued two sharp barks and leapt backwards. He stumbled a bit but managed to keep his footing - Er, pawing - and stayed withing leaping distance of the freshly dead horse lying on the roadside. He growled, eying the horse-mounted humans on the road, but didn't move to attack.

Even as Jane smoothly holstered her staff, quietly thumbing a switch and powering up the runes in her armor to give an extra surge of strength behind her fists, the other wolves obeyed in unison, leaping backwards and reatreating as one unit. The closest wolves all scurried behind the alpha, forming a V shape facing the group of fighters, though the one Jane had stunned into near paralyzation and the near-dead one Franklin had blasted simply ran into the woods, hurrying to the safety of the shadows and trees. They stayed in a holding pattern, not willing to back away from the horse carcass, but also unwilling to reenter the fray and take any more injuries than they already had.

Taking this time to regroup, everyone took a beat. David poured energy into his light spell, maintaining it for the group's benefit, Korus wiped a bloody arm against the dispenser of the engine to supply it with a little power, and Simo started taking aim with the second bullet loaded  in his pistol.

Franklin wasn't content to simply wait and watch, though. Raising his wand, he channeled energy into it until the runes glowed white-hot and the implement was charged to the breaking point. Shouting a word, he unleashed a spell with all the power he could muster. It wasn't a complex working, as far as things went, but it was difficult spell nonetheless simply due to the sheer energy needed to pull it off. His magic faltered, just barely, and though he managed to keep the spell together it dissapated a bit further than he had intended.

The wolves dug their claws into the dirt as gravity suddenly shifted, pulling them backwards as though they were suddenly on a steep incline of a hill rather than flat earth. It wasn't a strong enough tug to pull them off their feet, but it took some deep clawing at the dirt to keep from stumbling backwards.

The wolves didn't attack, instead taking a single step further backwards, cautious. The Alpha was clearly focused on the prize of meat lying in the road, but it wasn't worth it to lose one of the pack. Four wolves eyed the group with wary looks and hungry ferocity, but the growling and snapping instructions the alpha gave warned them from moving in or doing anything reckless. Jane raised her fists in a defensive manner like a boxer, albiet one armed with metal gauntlets heavy enough to crush skulls in one blow.

David drew his sword, and Simo fired his pistol in hopes of finishing off the wolf who had injured him. The wolf was ready, though, watching the fire-stick that the human was holding with caution, ready to jump away. It was a near thing, and the bullet grazed fur, but the wolf managed to duck away from the bullet. Doing so cost him his footing and he tumbled backward several steps, leaving him vulnerable, but without any other enemies moving in to strike immediately this didn't amount to much.

Korus tried to strike, but the Alpha wolf was far enough away that trying to land a hit was difficult at best, especially without entering the gravity-warping field of Franklin's spell. His hammer went wide, moving in a wide arc that made the wolves shy away but caused no real harm.

That's when Franlkin struck again, snarling ferociously as he pumped more energy into his wand and channeled the spell once more.

The wave of gravitational energy went off flawlessly, and as gravity nearly flipped upside down the wolves found themselves thrown helplessly up and backwards. No amount of clawing at the dirt would help without anything substantial to grip, and even if there had been good handholds the wolves had no hands to grab with. Flung up and away, even the Alpha went tumbling backwards, crashing into the treeline with four heavy thuds as the lot of them landed. Trying to move forward was futile, and the notch-eared wolf who tried it only found himself pushed up and backwards again, knocked off his paws like a child caught in a windstorm.

The Wolves broke. The Alpha, who had been holding them together, turning in panic and ran, recognizing the greater threat. As tantalizing as their prize was, it wasn't worth fighting a being who could twist the forces of reality so heavily. The other wolves, the ones not already lost in the trees, saw their leader running and fled after him. It was a scrambling effort, the distorted gravity making their fleeing rather confused and their footing uncertain, but the spell was built to keep the wolves away, not to keep them from fleeing.

The group seemed to collectively take another breath, all taking defensive stances. Simo had to draw his sword, his pistol empty, but David, Jane, and Korus all simply held up their weapons to ward off any attack. None came.

Even so, Franklin wasn't about to have any wolves sneaking up on them as soon as he let his guard down. For a third and final time, he raised his wand and all but screamed a magic word, releasing the spell that sent a wave of rippling gravity coursing into the forest. Whimpers and yelps came seconds later as the distorted gravity sent the fleeing wolves in a disgraceful tumble, though it was difficult to tell exactly the effects without being able to see the wolves themselves.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on June 22, 2015, 09:37:19 PM
"Well, that was a nuisance. I was hoping we'd get a bit further before a scrap, make it harder if we're being tailed." said Simo as he reloaded his pistol. "No chance of disguising this much damage though."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Narric on June 22, 2015, 10:42:49 PM
"Anyone willing to share a horse?" Korus sighed as he walked past his now dead horse towards the group. "If we were being tailed, I'm sure they'd have been close enough to us to have caught up by now." He said as he looked where the group had come.
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on June 23, 2015, 03:30:37 PM
"Maybe they have and we aren't aware" replied Simo, "or maybe they're waiting till morning so they have clear light to make it easier, in which case this" waving his hands at the destruction around them "may as well be a nice big arrow pointing out which way we're heading. There's more than one way to tail someone, but in any case it can't be helped."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on June 23, 2015, 03:50:12 PM
David shook his head, hopping down and offering a hand to Korus, sheathing his sword with his free arm as he did so. "We're twenty minutes from this Lordship's border," he said. "I don't think they were working for an Auditor. Cross the border, local guards can't touch us. Take my horse," he added, to Korus. "Set up camp when you reach a wide clearing. I'll be just behind you."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: The Man They Call Jayne on June 23, 2015, 03:54:47 PM
Franklin felt drained. Gravity was a heartless bitch and she would suck you dry if you let her. Still, those wolves shouldn't be back any time soon at least.

"Let us proceed then. We have a job to do and the sooner I can get some rest the better."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on July 01, 2015, 03:19:32 PM
Simo took point as they headed on. He doubted there'd be further incidents this evening, but even so he wasn't letting his guard down. They continued at a reasonble pace, meaning that David didn't fall too far behind, keeping the safety in numbers, but Simo kept his pistol drawn too as an added precaution
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Waaaghpower on July 08, 2015, 04:31:23 AM
Some hour or so later, the four of them were settled down to camp in a patch of open grass within a stone's throw of the main road. Franklin, totally wiped out from the heavyweight magic he'd been throwing around, was near-unconciousness on his bedroll, still just barely awake, and though the others were doing far better, (Having not exhausted themselves with magic,) they were all feeling the effects of sleep deprivation starting to set in. Nobody had injuries severe enough to be totally debilitating, so unless infection set in they'd be fine without much medical attention, but only Jane had gotten out of the melee unscathed.

Just then, David returned, using his staff for support in walking. He didn't seem any more injured than he had ever been, but exhaustion was plain nonetheless. "I've set up wards," He explained, approaching the low fire that was crackling in the midst of their group. "Should the wolves return, we'll know long before they get here. Sleep. All of you. The magic should last until sunrise, at the least, so noone need exhaust themselves further by keeping watch."
Title: Re: The War Saga: Prelude (RP Thread)
Post by: Scout Sergeant Mkoll on July 09, 2015, 09:17:13 PM
Simo made a point of checking his weapons over before crashing. He slept restlessly at first, he wasn't used to knowing nobody was on watch, but after a couple of hours he finally settled into a deep sleep, waking around dawn. He gathered his gear and did a quick lap of the camp to check for signs of being followed or anyone watching.

He knew it was unlikely given the wards, but it never hurts to be sure and a clean getaway from the fight in the town was their best chance of getting this plan to work.