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kiryu133
Responsible
Legendary Hero
Highly illogical
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posted September 21, 2015 12:13 PM |
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"<Omashu Bei-Fong. No it's not, but the basis is mostly the same. It's just manipulating different liquids. By grabbing muscles and tissue instead of blood I can control the body directly instead of dragon it around with something that's not attached. It's holding a sack of rice instead of trying to drag it in a rope. The exploding bit was still mostly blood magic. It's still pretty new, I haven't studied it extensively yet and can really only manipulate one body at a time since it demands a higher focus than blood magic where one can lift entire groups at once>."
Elena had stood up upon Halfmans arrival, now leaning against a nearby wall with arms crossed over her chest.
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kipshasz
Undefeatable Hero
Elvin's Darkside
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posted September 21, 2015 02:55 PM |
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- Fascinating. Would you mind teaching it to me as well?- He asked.- I would love to add it to my own arsenal. The way Blackbird described it, it is pretty messy thing.- Halfman said as he finished his wine.
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"Kip is the Gavin McInnes of HC" - Salamandre
"Ashan to the Trashcan", "I got PTSD from H7. " - LizardWarrior
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kiryu133
Responsible
Legendary Hero
Highly illogical
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posted September 21, 2015 05:49 PM |
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"I probably could. Any Leqina experience first of all? Just manipulating blood, while much easier, is still pretty advanced and demands knowledge of the element."
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kipshasz
Undefeatable Hero
Elvin's Darkside
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posted September 21, 2015 06:22 PM |
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- As a member of the Samann, I know all forms of magic at their basic level, as well as many ways to neutralize each of the schools. - Halfman said.- Will knowing the basics be enough to learn this?- He asked.
For what he told over the campfire so far, Halfman made it to Zanaris just for "sh1ts and giggles". Being riddiculled for his short stature most of his life, and most of it came from his own family, really made Halfman a really bitter man, though he did not showed it at all.
Being able to squash something by just manipulating it's bodily fluids was something Halfman never really craved, but He really enjoyed the fact that most of his adversarries underestimated him, just because he's a midget.
Magnus and Drago returned to camp and went through the loot. most of it was coin. There were statuettes of the elven goddess, seemingly hidden by those who did not turn to Jagnir's worship. There were several pieces of armor, made from a silverish metal, however with the elves, you just can't know. There were several weapons as well. Bladed weapons. Those too, seemed to be from before the Dominion. many of them were slashing types, with elegant curves.
- So, what do we do with all of this?- Magnus asked.
- Not really sure. Let's just stash away the armor and the weapons into our armory. Separate from the rest of course.
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"Kip is the Gavin McInnes of HC" - Salamandre
"Ashan to the Trashcan", "I got PTSD from H7. " - LizardWarrior
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kiryu133
Responsible
Legendary Hero
Highly illogical
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posted September 21, 2015 08:57 PM |
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"You can learn it but it won't be very good. Blood isn't water and isn't as easy to manipulate. It's also invisible to you so you need to feel it to use it."
Elena gave out a cough.
"I need to go but to start, try to learn and feel water you can't see" Shu finished before standing up and walking after Elena towards the training field.
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It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that the cis are at it again.
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kipshasz
Undefeatable Hero
Elvin's Darkside
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posted September 21, 2015 09:27 PM |
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Edited by kipshasz at 18:22, 23 Sep 2015.
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Halfman nodded. He then went to Drago and Magnus who were sorting out the loot from the hidden cache.
- Ah, there you are- Drago said.- I'll need you to examine these items thorougly- He said pointing towards the elven sabres and armor pieces.
- Find the enchantments of the elven gear, if they have any? Sure- The tiny wizard reply.- But these won't fit anyone.- He said while pointing at the cuirass pieces.
- I'm sure we can fit the lasses in those if a need arises- Magnus said.
- Perhaps.- Dragomir said.- Time will tell.
and as such evening broke. The company had sat around campfires and had their dinners.
Halfman came by to Drago.
- I've finished the examination. They're plain. Nothing's in them. No magic.
- Very well. Good job.- Drago said.
On the next morning the company set out on the road again. By the noon, they came into the first town. A simple hamlet, no walls, few guards. The people seemed unmoved by the armed mercenaries.
After speaking briefly with the town elder, Dragomir located the camp on the edge of town. They spoke the Merinanthian tongue. There wasn't much that Drago could get out of the elder for now, but he learned a few things of value. He found out that a fair haired dwarf did passed through here, and there was a large tribe of giants nearby as well.
Once the camp was made, Drago went into the town. There was no sign of patrolling guards however. no security measures too other than a single watch tower. It was weird. People seemed relaxed though.
In a hamlet like this, at least the people's militia would be present, but so far the only armed force was the Brotherhood.
The tavern was a slightly posh building in the town. The sign however had worn out long ago, and wasn't readable. Dragomir decided to enter the establishment.
Inside was better than he expected. nothing luxurious, but at least it was clean.
He sat by the bar. The barkeep approached him.
- We have beer, mead and firewater. What'll it be?
- Mead- Dragomir responded, and shortly after as served a large tankard of the drink.
- I saw you march to town. The companies returning home, after all these centuries?
- Returning? What do you mean by that?
- The Nine. Those who went southwards. You belong to the Tattered Banner. People been saying that one day the companies will return.
- Indeed I am a member of the Brotherhood. But we're not "returning"- Drago said after he took a sip.- We're on a important quest. Besides, there is only one of the Free Companies remaining. Other's perished in various battles in the South over the centuries.
- I see.- The barkeep said.- A pity. The Nine were the finest of the Free Companies.
- You mean there's more?
- Of course ser. at the very least twice as much as those left for the South when the Passageways were made. None ventured since. The North is vast enough for them.
Dragomir dran his mead.
- What can you tell me about the area?- He asked.
- Not much. There's a few forests, some elven ruins in the area, a giant tribe. There's also a lake, which water is crystal clear, and is rich with fish. towards the road to the city of Beryll you'll encounter a shrine of some sort. it's overgrown by now.
- What about a dwarf? He sports a golden beard. Seen any of his sort?
- He passed through here. recently as well. Went northwards, Into the woods nearby. Where the gargantuan oak is growing, I'm sure you saw it on your way here.
- I saw it.- Drago said.- So, anything particular about these woods?
- They say an oracle is living there, by the old oak. and he's fiercely guarded by a tribe of dryads.
- Dryads?- Drago heard such name for the first time.
- Forest witches if you may good ser. Fierce and deadly. We simple folk don't go deep in the woods. You be careful now if you venture into them. The dwarf you seek may be dead already.- It sounded like the barkeep is really scared of the things that dwell in the woods.
- Thank you. Your advice is noted- Dragomir said as he placed a few coins on the counter.
- You acept southron coin I presume.
- Sure. We acept all kinds of coinage.- The barkeep said as he took the few silvers from the counter.
Dragomir went outside, back to the company's camp.
Once there, he gathered around his men.
- I need volunteers to go into the woods with me and Magnus, to look for his brother. The townsfolk seem to be afraid to go deep into them, and mentioned something called "dryads", of which they were afraid. But we are not simple townsfolk, now are we?- Drago siad with a chuckle.- So, Who's coming with us?
Mikolaj was the first to step forward. In the journey his armor was decorated with various small dents and scratches. He took good care of the armor, just wasn't fond of polishing it flawlessly like Francis. The sword that Magnus forged him was slung over his shoulder. With Allikha's increasingly difficult sparring sessions he was able to wield it with greater speed and efficiency.
- Good. Anyone else?- Dragomir looked around.
____________
"Kip is the Gavin McInnes of HC" - Salamandre
"Ashan to the Trashcan", "I got PTSD from H7. " - LizardWarrior
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Geny
Responsible
Undefeatable Hero
What if Elvin was female?
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posted September 23, 2015 07:19 PM |
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"Dryads..." John mused, scratching his hair, "I've seen the name before. In books and fairy tales. Magical creatures, supposed to be connected to the forest they live in. Well, I've grown up in a forest, I should find a common tongue with them, I hope. I'm in."
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DON'T BE A NOOB, JOIN A.D.V.E.N.T.U.R.E.
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kiryu133
Responsible
Legendary Hero
Highly illogical
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posted September 23, 2015 07:50 PM |
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"<Oh, this sounds exciting!> We're in!" Shu said, dragging Elena with her.
god dammit... Elena thought.
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It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that the cis are at it again.
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kipshasz
Undefeatable Hero
Elvin's Darkside
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posted September 23, 2015 08:38 PM |
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Edited by kipshasz at 20:40, 23 Sep 2015.
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- You and me both.- Drago said to John.- Well, with me and Magnus theres six.- A few more, mostly former dwarven Ironbreakers stepped forward.
- ten in total.- I'd say a few more will do it. I am afraid that the townsfolk were very unwilling to talk about the grove in question, and what I could make out could be just mere exaggerations. Superstitions about spoiled milk and stealing babes from their cradles.- Dragomir said with a sigh.- your typical market's rabble. Tell me John, what did you read about them? Books have to be slightly reliable sources compared to old woman's gossip..
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"Kip is the Gavin McInnes of HC" - Salamandre
"Ashan to the Trashcan", "I got PTSD from H7. " - LizardWarrior
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Gryphs
Supreme Hero
The Clever Title
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posted September 23, 2015 08:48 PM |
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"I will accompany as well perhaps we will be able to talk with them," Isabella said although she rather doubted it.
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"Don't resist the force. Redirect it. Water over rock."-blizzardboy
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Geny
Responsible
Undefeatable Hero
What if Elvin was female?
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posted September 23, 2015 10:48 PM |
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"Unfortunately, more often than not books are based on such old women's gossip. They are juice enough for fairy tales and safe enough to collect for all the would-be researchers. Real adventurers hardly ever bother with publishing their experiences. Still, much of it is based on truth. They say dryads are one with the forest. I guess that means they know it well and guard it fiercely... maybe even control it to some extent with their magics. They also say dryads can bewitch men. That one is fairly easy, even human women are capable of that, some with magic, but most with their natural skills.
Not much else is known from what I've read. But even those two pieces of information mean trouble. They are creatures of the forest, so they will guard it like their own child. If that was all, we could try reason with them by showing that we mean them no harm. But they are also prone to human mischief and understand emotions. That means that even if we do approach them in peace, we will never know if we're walking into a trap."
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DON'T BE A NOOB, JOIN A.D.V.E.N.T.U.R.E.
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kipshasz
Undefeatable Hero
Elvin's Darkside
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posted September 24, 2015 05:24 PM |
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- Good call. Which means even if someone breaks a branch off will meet trouble. Let's go armed, just in case. I have a deep feeling that the Dryads are not the only ones taking up residence in that grove.- Drago said- If there are no more who wish to go with us, I say, let's get going on. Let's try not do anything stupid- Drago said.
The grove was ancient, there was no doubt about it. the trees were large and thick, needing at least three men to hug them. There was a path in the undergrowth, a clean, sand path, leading to the depths of the forest.
- Be on your guard- Dragomir said. The amber on his sword wasn't glowing for now.- Remember, we must not provoke whatever dwells here.
The group continued along the path deeper into the woods. An arrow struck a tree nearby Drago. He halted the group and drawn out his sword and kindjal. The other's too readied themselves for an upcoming attack, with Ironbreakers and John raising their shields.
- I think this was a warning shot- Drago said after lowering his weapons afer a while. The company was well deep into the grove by now.
- We mean you no harm!- Drago shouted out to the woods. From the other side, without making a slightest sound a woman emerged, holding a fine crafted, almost elvish style polearm in hand. She wore some sort of leather and fur armor or clothing on her.
- Who are you?- She said.- Did the foolish townsfolk send you? Mind you, no sudden movements! There are at least six dozen bows with razor sharp arrows aimed at you right now.
Dragomir sheathed his weapons. strangely enough, the amber in the sword did not glowed. either this greenish skinned woman lied, or they're just trying to scare the small group of the company.
- I am Dragomir The Black, Lord of House Dragonheart of North Shandra, Captain of the Brotherhood of the Tattered Banner. We came here on our own accord.
The woman did not appeared to be pleased when she heard the name of the company.
- Free Company. How much the townsfolk payed you to wipe us out?
- They didn't. We came here not to fight.- Drago sighed. He did not seemed to persuade the dryad,as she clenched her weapon stronger.
- John, Would you kindly tell the lady of the nature of our quest?- He asked the Halfgiant, hoping that he'll fare better luck than Drago had.
____________
"Kip is the Gavin McInnes of HC" - Salamandre
"Ashan to the Trashcan", "I got PTSD from H7. " - LizardWarrior
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Geny
Responsible
Undefeatable Hero
What if Elvin was female?
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posted September 24, 2015 08:25 PM |
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John slowly put his shield and club on the ground. He wasn't wearing his horned helmet when they went into the forest because he wasn't sure what kind of a bond do dryads have with animals. Once unarmed he took a slow step forward with his arms slightly raised, sat down cross-legged and put his hands on his knees.
"My name is John. I am the son of a giant and a human woman. Would you listen to me and talk with me in peace?"
He looked at the woman expectantly to see if she would follow his lead.
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DON'T BE A NOOB, JOIN A.D.V.E.N.T.U.R.E.
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kipshasz
Undefeatable Hero
Elvin's Darkside
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posted September 24, 2015 09:43 PM |
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- How come you're still alive then?- The dryad asked him. She then lowered her weapon.
- I will hear you out. Speak.- She said in a rather strict tone.
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"Kip is the Gavin McInnes of HC" - Salamandre
"Ashan to the Trashcan", "I got PTSD from H7. " - LizardWarrior
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Geny
Responsible
Undefeatable Hero
What if Elvin was female?
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posted September 24, 2015 11:15 PM |
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"Whatever you know about the Free Companies, we are not like them. The Brotherhood of the Tattered Banner has been located in the South lands for centuries now. All of us were born and raised there and have no connection to the local peasants. We have recently came into the North on a quest to find a certain artifact. And the only reason we're trespassing on your lands is because we are in a search of a dwarf. A dwarf with a golden beard. We were told he went this way. Would you allow us passage through your woods so we could find him and be on our way?"
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DON'T BE A NOOB, JOIN A.D.V.E.N.T.U.R.E.
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kipshasz
Undefeatable Hero
Elvin's Darkside
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posted September 25, 2015 11:32 AM |
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Edited by kipshasz at 19:09, 25 Sep 2015.
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- You already have one- She noted, pointing at Magnus. It seems that John had persuaded her.
- Tis be me brother we're looking for lass.- The dwarf replied.- Ye have seen him right?
- True. A dwarf did pass here recently. He was allowed into the sanctum. And he did looked similar to you- She noted. Magnus smiled.
- I will allow you to pass. Follow me- She said.- And don't wander off the path- the dryad added.
After a lenghtly walk, the party found itself inside a clearing. In it's center, the gigantic oak stood, towering over all other trees.
The little dryad huts were made from roots tangled together into a shape of a hovel. Some were hanging on the collosal branches of the gigantic tree.
- Wait here- The dryad said to Dragomir. she went near the tree, and dissappeared in one of the root hovels. Soon after she returned with another one, who appeared to be the leader of this tribe of dryads.
- I welcome you to our sanctum- the woman said.- Naela had told me you had come in peace, yet you belong to a Free Company.
- That is correct.- Dragomir replied.- The Brotherhood of the Tattered Banner was in southron lands for centuries, and we only ventured North, because we are in search of a relic.
The chief dryad gave a smile.
- We have another one like you. He said he searches for one of Alberich's relics.
- That be Brann!- Magnus shouted- Tell me lass, is he allright? Where is he?
- Calm down. The dwarf was injured, and is at our care now. Our sanctum is under siege for quite some time. and those creatures managed to injure this relic seeker. Do not worry, he'll live. He's well cared for.
- Who is attacking you?- Drago asked the chief, who had still to introduce herself.
- We, the last daughters of Callista are besieged by foul creatures who serve Jagnir.- The chief dryad said.- Foul fiends wish to desecrate our sacred home. They wish to sever ties to the Oracle. They settled in this grove, and been attacking us daily. We are tired and worn out.
- And you could use help..?- Dragomir asked.
- Yes. Any help will be well rewarded.
- Brann first!- Said Magnus.
- This is the brother of the dwarf you heal now. He really would feel better if he sees him now.
The chief dryad looked at Magnus and then at Naela.
- Take him to the dwarf- she said. Naela gestured Magnus to follow, and the dwarf complied, after he emptied his wineskin.
- You must pardon our carefulness. We weren't sure that you weren't sent by the townsfolk on some foolish errand.
- We weren't- Drago said- We want the dwarf. The Success of our quest depends on it.
- Come then.- The cheif dryad said.- Let us talk by the Oracle.- The company followed her. The Ironbreakers and Mikolaj were curiously looking around. everything here had a scent of magic in it. The creations of the dryads were far superior than those of the Druids of Dhamann. The company was led to the base of the giat tree. by the base of the tree there was a throne, grown out the same way as the dryad hovels were. for the time being it was empty.
The chief gestured to sit on the soft, mossy ground.
- Tell me Dragomir of House Dragonheart- The cheif began. She probably got his name from Naela.- Who guides you on this quest?
- The Elderfather. Parkkun.- The answer had pleased the chief.- You wanted our aid agaisn't those who besiege you. I have 150 well armed and well trained men at my disposal, and several mages as well. Besides the dwarf, what we'll get in return for our aid?
- We cannot offer you coin, for we do not have it. What I Orrena, Lady of the Forest can offer you is something more than just a box of human money. There are young here, skilled in arts of war and mending. they are restless. The wanderlust is in their young hearts. I can offer you them.
Drago sat silent for a moment. What the barkeep and several townsfolk told them, that the dryads are fierce fighters. And the company never refused those who wanted to join them. Their loyalty was another question.
- You wish to set your children free? Do I understand it correctly?
Orenna nodded.
- There is one thing. People who join the Brotherhood leave their lives behind. They come back home, but the bond and the lust for adventure is stronger, and each is drawn back into the company.
- You sound just like the first Captain of the Brotherhood- Orenna said.- He told my grandmother the exact same things. Drago remembered that there was a passage in the annals describing some members of the Brotherhood as "fierce forest amazons", that met their end in the Siege of Ysmarkand, battling Onshall clan and their hordes of voidspawn.
- Loyalty to the Brotherhood is the thing I require from my men the most. But I guess before I get that from your people, there is a battle ahead. I need to get the rest of my company here, if we're to prepare for the upcoming fight with those things that keep attacking you- On their way here, Drago noted a serpentine creature hung on a branch as a supposed warning to the others.
- They will be granted safe passage to the sanctum- Orenna said.
- Very good. I'll send a runner for them.- Drago looked at one ironbreaker. He nodded, got up, nad went back into the woods.
- Now these, things... What do they want with the tree. What is this Oracle exactly?- Drago was a bit puzzled.
- The cults of Jagnir wish to free him from his prison- A familiar voice said. It was coming from the throne. Upon looking there Dragomir saw the human "disguise" of Parkkun. The same old man in white robes, silverish armor, a staff and a kantele hanging on a strap on his shoulder. He stepped down from the throne and walked towards the group.
- The Oracle is just a place where mortal races communicated with the gods. There are plenty of them, but few remain active to this day. Alas, only three places like this remain in the world. One is in the mage duchy of Dhamann. The second is right here. and the third lies deep in the North. The dark one cannot manifest in person after his imprisonment, but he can be heard via the Oracle. That's why he sent his minions to attack this dryad tribe.
- I've read legends, and I'm sure most of the Company did too. After the Great Winter froze the world, Jagnir was imprisoned by the other gods.
Parkkun nodded.
- And now he wants out.- Dragomir finished.- You told me that the elves succumbed to his evil, creating the Dominion.
- Yes, and now, he wishes to do the same with human kind. There are many who had turned to him. They started turmoils within the southern realms.
- But how can we stop that, if it can be stopped?- Drago pondered.
- You already thwarted one major inssurection already. In Mikaya. But first things first.- The god said- You need to recover the goblet first. in the meantime, the kings will handle the few unsubordinate lords on their own.- Parkkun said, and faded away.
By about the same time, the runner reached the campsite and gave the news to Francis who was left in charge.
____________
"Kip is the Gavin McInnes of HC" - Salamandre
"Ashan to the Trashcan", "I got PTSD from H7. " - LizardWarrior
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Neraus
Promising
Legendary Hero
Pain relief cream seller
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posted September 25, 2015 07:46 PM |
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Edited by Neraus at 19:46, 25 Sep 2015.
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At the camp, the men were continuing their training, Francis was inspecting the caravans for an eventual resupply at the nearby town, he already noted some things that could be useful, and others that were unnecessary, nevertheless he had to suggest some expenses to Dragomir.
He was having a conversation with Allikha, mostly to see if he could suggest the inclusion of some books to read regarding combat, when a sentry announced the arrival of an ironbreaker dwarf to the camp, Francis asked the armsmaster to follow him and went to the border of the camp to meet the runner halfway through, the reason of this haste was due to Francis' growing discomfort and paranoia, he heard the townsfolk tales about that grove and feared that the worst happened, another thing that buggered him was that there were dryads there and as a child he was diffident of the dryads that appeared in fairytales, due to their penchant of living in the woods.
Once the runner explained the situation Francis felt incredibly relieved, he feared for a moment that he would have to reorganize the company and assert his command, something that would have been difficult considering the opinion of some elements of the company; after the explanations Francis gave the order to pack everything and march to the Sanctum, following the orders he was given.
In the meantime he wondered if they could bring everything there in time for the siege.
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Noli offendere Patriam Agathae quia ultrix iniuriarum est.
ANTUDO
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kipshasz
Undefeatable Hero
Elvin's Darkside
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posted September 26, 2015 08:48 PM |
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By the time Francis with the company managed to arrive, the small group that ventured into the woods had been treated to some dryad hospitality. They were served very refreshing spring water and roast wood pigeon breasts with some local herbs.
By now, Drago had discussed the tactics with Orenna. The plan they devised as simple. The creatures had an encampment nearby. Dragomir decided that the best way to counter the upcoming attack is for a small group to assault the encampment, while the bulk of the forces defend the Oracle.
Magnus came back from the hovel where his brother was kept. He seemed happy.
- Well, Brann be alright. mangled up pretty good, but alive. The lasses have taken good care of him. The said those serpent things mauled him.- He grasped his warhammer tightly.- Let's go bash their bloody skulls in. For the Iron Clan.
Evening soon broke. Drago, along with Magnus and Mikolaj, not to mention those that wanted to accompany the, set to be out to attack the serpentmen encampment. Naela was the dryad that will serve as a guide to the grove. What drago learned is that the dryads knew the location of their adversary for some time, but never had the numbers to despose of it. The Brotherhood was the unexpected relief force.
____________
"Kip is the Gavin McInnes of HC" - Salamandre
"Ashan to the Trashcan", "I got PTSD from H7. " - LizardWarrior
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kiryu133
Responsible
Legendary Hero
Highly illogical
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posted September 26, 2015 09:08 PM |
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Shu approached the Dryad on their way. "I'm Omashu Bei-Fong. Uhm, I hear you have, like a connection to nature. Is there magic involved? Cause I would be interested to learn about it" she asked. "I-if it's not too much trouble, of course..."
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kipshasz
Undefeatable Hero
Elvin's Darkside
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posted September 27, 2015 07:44 PM |
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- Our connection to the nature is occuring from birth. It's a natural thing to our kind- Naela said- And unfortunately, it cannot be taught to anyone else. Be on your guard- She spoke in a lower tone- We're nearby their lair.
The glowing Amber on Drago's sword confirmed that.
The forest around the creatures' encampment appeared withered and dying. There were no tents, no supplies of any kind. only several of the snakemen guarding a strange pedestal with a floating crystal on it.
Dragomir signalled the attack. Magnus went head on, faster than anyone else managed, and already downed a creature.
- Smash the crystal!- Dragomir shouted while fending off a snakeman. He barely dodged the spit, which was no doubt venomous, and shoved the sword into the mouth of the creature, killing it.
____________
"Kip is the Gavin McInnes of HC" - Salamandre
"Ashan to the Trashcan", "I got PTSD from H7. " - LizardWarrior
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This thread is pages long: 
