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Layne
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Post by Layne »

OOC : Woot four years is it? It's like some kind of large dealie thingie now. With apologies, my level of commitment to other thins has been higher, and to this, not so high lately... on with the show.

IC :

Karonath had gone at the giant beastie with the full rage of her tiny being whistling through her ears, but it seemed Khaine was not much bothered with her, maybe not such a surprise on the night when every Khainite warrior in Vikarh is letting fly.... so the giant beastie punched her full force in the side of the head, and next she knew it was dead and she was staggering away. Knocked out twice in one night, but saved the day more or less.

It was the longest walk back to Blackthorn she had taken for a while. She asked how it was for V with the Beastlord, and V showed her again its' own massive weapon that she had cut it down with. Just suppose, if K had aimed for arms adn hands as was her bait she might have got to do that herself... but no, she didn't do letting go of Bloodfeather.

It was near dawn and K's feet weren't hardly obeying commands any more when the three finally got home. It was at this point that K at last remembered Elysian, and the two oddballs he had gone off with, the pirate and the singer. They made their way inside and struck up their usual small talk with Sevro, when suddenly an unexpected wind struck up, whistling through the gates. K felt her heart fall out the bottom of her boots, and prepared to meet bloody death for the forty ninth time tonight, as it crossed her mind that she was no in fact going to see the sun again, and then she straightened up and foursquared, sword at the very highest port, waiting to cut a hole or two in whatever was coming.

And the unexpected wind blew in some unexpected weather - a mage and two corsairs came tumbling down out of the sky, and hit the ground, rolling and stumbling through the gate and into the snow.

One of them asked if they had missed all the fun.

Tell us your story and we'll see if you missed out.
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Karonath - WS6 / S4 / T4 / D5 / I3
Equipment: Bloodfeather, heavy armour, helm, Sea Dragon Cloak, rope x 2, month rations x 2
Inventory: longspear, 2 short swords, glaive, winter gear, shade cloak,
Mount: Dark Steed (Shiny), talisman of kurnous
Gold: 2294
Skills: Ambidexterity, Controlled Frenzy, Basic Ride, Drukh Kaganth
Class: Khainite
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Post by Drainial »

"Oh what the F**k!" Elysian yelped as the unnatural winds swept him up into the air. He was so surprised the tablet nearly fell out of his arms but he managed to catch it shortly before it fell back to earth. Looking down he saw a mob of chaos warriors and marauders make it into the alley at last, giving further credence to Caroc's vision and their theory about just why this invasion had taken place. The wight, despite the battering it had taken, seemed not to be backing down. Maybe it would kill one or two of them, house Tvar might yet do something useful in the defence of the city. As the winds swept them away though he realised he would never know. Another problem presented itself. The sight of three male Druchii flying unaided through the air could bring nothing good, on a night like this it was likely to bring a volley of bolts from any passing guardsmen. With that in mind he began to bend his mind to keeping them hidden. Flying was for dragons, sorceresses and highborns with stolen pegasii, not Vauvalka.

It was with a great sense of relief then that they finally landed. It was a pleasant surprise that to find that Caroc had managed to plant them back in the grounds of house Blackthorn, maybe the man bas*ard really was a pilot. Turning his attention to the welcoming committee it seemed that those they had left in the east had managed to live out the night as had Sevro and Blackthorn. He hoped they had all found something useful to kill.

What were these Northmen looking for in the library?" Varin asked, although Caroc tried to answer in his enthusiasm the poor boy wasn't particularly clear. By way of answer Elysian looked to the walls, saw that they were still standing and judged it safe enough to reveal the artefact. Undraping the golden treasure he said
"It is a golden tablet, riddled with high magic. We found it in a secret chamber behind a powerful ward, clearly someone feared the power it wields or the information it holds. The ward had faded a little though and so its power was being broadcast to those with the ears to listen. Neither I nor Caroc have seen its like before; it is not elven or Dwarven design, or at least not any that I have seen or heard of. I hate to say it but I suspect it will take the knowledge and power of the Convent to unlock its secrets."

Trying to give the facts of the matter
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Post by Kinslayer »


For the first time in several hours, all the surviving members of the group were once again reunited in the Blackthorn estate. Although Casaythe and Caraoc had not officially been employed by Blackthorn yet or been wholly accepted by the other members of the group, their work together to bring Varin the tablet was sure to help him make up his mind. As Elysian unveiled the golden tablet, Sevro and Yurul shared gasps of surprise with some of the others. The Guard Captain looked from the tablet after a moment to their Lord, the look on his face telling them he had never seen such an artefact despite having been by Varins' side longer than all of them put together. The longest serving of the mercenary group had worked for Varin for nearly four years now, though they had spent large amounts of that time abroad, and a bizarrely short amount of time lost in another realm all together. Sevro however had served House Blackthorn for over a century.

Varin seemed just as miffed as the others, though he simply stared at the golden tablet for a few moments before looking up at Elysian and the others. He held a hand over the tablet as he spoke.
"Never was it known that House Tvar held such treasures, whatever this tablet is I can feel it's power without even touching it. These glyphs, you're correct are not elven or dwarfen, I believe I have seen runes like them before in several texts. If the Northmen came all this way and invaded our City just to get their hands on this, then it must be very powerful indeed. If as you say it was concealed by a ward which has been eroded and can now be located, we must hide it somewhere secret, some place safe. I will investigate it further once this battle is done, and see that you are all rewarded for bringing it here and helping keep the Chaotic humans at bay."

Varin reached out again, this time taking the tablet from Elysian with gentle hands, leaving him his Cloak of Dusk to pin back around his shoulders.

"Sevro, wrap it in thick cloth and take it to the vaults. The deepest vault, in fact. Have your men set up a permanent watch over the door tonight."

He paused a moment, before handing the tablet to the Guard Captain and leaning in close to his ear, whispering something else they did not hear.



Once Sevro had gone, and Yurul had finished tending to their small wounds and left with a short bow to their Master, Varin stood before the group as they sat on the steps outside House Blackthorn.

"What say we go forth one last time before this night is through. Already the sun rises, but the champion of the Northern army had yet to fall when I left the gate. The Drach, the Hag, and all the Temples' forces should be behind them by now, and Bane and the Midnight Guardians fight their way to the gate up the north road. I don't fancy their chances already, but I'll gladly go stack the numbers against them even higher. Despite all we have achieved so far, this fight at the North Gate will be the last of it. This will be where the glory is left to be won!"


The choice was theirs, but Blackthorn himself was ready to ride to the North Gate and join in the last of the fighting, where the remnants of the Chaos army and their already defeated champion still fought like cornered wolves.
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Post by Calisson »

Nobody questioned Caraoc's arcane abilities. The explanations must have been foolish enough to convince about no need to go further.

The golden tablet had been given to Blackthorn. What reward would he give?
Caraoc listened carefully to the Lord's proposal.
What? Just more Blood, Toil, Tears and Sweat? Who would be crazy enough to accept that?
No choice but to remain with their debtor until he proposed a more reasonable retribution.
"We won't leave You, Sir."

Following Blackthorn.

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Equipment: staff, repeater handbow (8 clips + 18/20), Sea Dragon Cloak,
Inventory: "Beastbane" Horn - Mount: - Gold: 100
Skills: Power of Azyr (2), Evasion
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Post by Dauricha »

OOC: I have returned, and with a glorious hangover!

IC: Bloody piss he needed a drink. He sat an listened to vaguely to talk of a tablet, some sort of doom. Phalx was to tired to care, he was bound and checked by Yurul, the worst of the scraps and blood were washed away. frig he was tired. What a fight, so much blood, so much blood. He had been up to his elbows in the stuff. How many had fallen to his tools? How many elves had died this day. Varin said it was not over and Phalx didn't doubt that. How many months till Virkarh was whole again, how long till he was whole again? So much conquered, he was alive. He needed a drink.

The wild Shade got to his feet, cracking his neck. one final stab at glory and wealth, no doubt fine loot and other gifts of victory would be for those victorious few that day. Let me get a bottle of strong stuff, then aye, lets be about it.

Phalx is ready for the final charge, the final battle. After getting a stiff drink of course.
Phalx Tr'dasr – WS5 / S4 / T4 / D5 / I4
Equipment: Deathspitter (5/20) 4 of these poisoned (1/2x QD, 3xSD), short sword, dagger, punching dagger (Bloodthirst Rune), shade cloak, full leather armour
Inventory: thieves tools, torches x3, healing balms x5, rope and grapple, Vikarh map, dice, winter gear, orc tusk,
Mount: Dark Steed
Gold: 5829
Skills: Basic Stealth, Precision Fire, Basic Ride, Frenzy, Ambidexterity,Suithenlu Khythan (1): SP2
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Post by Raneth »

V looked on wordlessly as Elysian and the Corsairs divulged their findings, noticing the unmistakeable gleam of power in Varin's eyes. She shook her head, fearing the uncovered artefact might bring them more harm than good, but knew full well such concerns would fall on deaf ears. Blackthorn ordered his Captain to seal away the tablet, then suggested a final run for glory as the War for Vikarh would soon be at an end. Though weary, Vryala did not have to think twice about such an offer; apparently there were yet more Champions to slay before the all clear could be given.

The Beastman leader's serrated broadsword - dubbed the Ghor Blade by Vryala - safely in Sevro's keep, she unsheathed her own sword with a fierce roar in a gesture of readiness - if the old man would go to battle, V would stand right at his side. The Drach might take note, or maybe Kalius, and perhaps their employer could begin with a clean slate - though of course the Ruler would not soon forget the Noble's impudence in his very own Tower. Her ribs still creaked from that blasted Starmace, but Yurul's continued assistance had made sure she wasn't out for the count just yet. Likewise, K and Phalx seemed to have their fighting spirits rekindled, showing true Druchii eagerness to get back to their bloody business. V wondered how Blanky, her beloved mount, was holding up through all of this mayhem.

Giddyap!
Vryala Naïlo - WS5 / S5 / T5 / D5 / I4

Equipment: bastard sword of Speed, shield of Defence, repeater (20/20), spear, mace, dagger, Armour of Night, SDC, whip, blowpipe (9/12)
Inventory: amulet of Strength, grapple, grenade x0, smoke x11, map, mage hand, sleep oil x8, cure balms x20, Yori's balms x1, winter gear, old kit, lion mask
Mount: Dark Steed (Blanky), barding, talisman of Protection
Gold: 1735
Skills: Defensive Fighting, Anarin Sarath (2), Basic Ride
Class: Warrior
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Post by Drainial »

It was with reluctance that Elysian gave up the golden tablet to Varin. The thing was worth far more than it weighed in gold, and having carried it back from the library (albeit with magical aid) he knew that it weighed plenty. That said he knew no to expect too much from the highborn, nobles just didn't think that way. As far as Blackthorn was concerned common mercenaries, thieves and corsairs didn't own such things and damn to what they had been through to get it. As the tablet was taken away by Sevro Elysian reflected that stowing the thing in the deepest wine caller would hardly be sufficient given that even through one of the most powerful wards he had ever encountered the tablet had drawn this huge army all the way from the chaos wastes. He made a mental note to add whatever wards he could muster when he had the time, and ask Caroc to add whatever magical defences he had to offer. For now though Varin wanted them to go back out to the battle once again. The city was not yet cleansed and after their behaviour in the Drach's tower Elysian knew they needed to ingratiate themselves as far as possible if Varin was to get back into favour. Privately the ex-thief knew he could slip away before any sanctions were handed down but working for the old bastard was a decent job and he would prefer not to.

"Fine," he said, answering Blackthorn's proposal "but I am not bloody walking. Where is my horse?"
Last edited by Drainial on Tue Oct 16, 2012 3:27 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Post by Nightcall »

Karonath didn't seem impressed by Casaythe's question. She was a fine looking wench, but her demeanour suggested that she was hardly approchable, let alone interested in a chat. The corsair shrugged with a sideways smile and left the Khainite to it.

His limbs ached and his eyes were sore from lack of sleep and the fire in the library. And now this highborn gave some rallying speech about one last push in the north to be rid of the Northmen once and for all. He sighed, their reward for finding the artifact and carrying it all the way down here was to be sent of for more work. Did these nobles have no people skills? What was really in order was a morning in a tavern at least...

'Let's get on with it then. The sooner we get the stinking bastards out of Vikarh, the sooner I can have a drink.'

He pulled a small piece of root out of his hip purse and chewed slowly. It'd keep him going for a few more hours he hoped. Then, resting his glaive over his shoulder, he began the walk.

Tired. Grumpy. Following to the North Gate.
Casaythe Blackstorm - Warrior (Corsair) - Group 22
Skills: Awareness, Endurance
Equipment: Short Sword, Glaive, Medium Armour, Sea Dragon Cloak, Repeater Crossbow, clip of bolts [11/20], 405 gold, Talisman of Darkness, Tool Kit, 2 months' rations
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Post by Kinslayer »


The group begrudgingly accepted that they were to ride north again despite their aching limbs and weary minds, following their Lord out across the courtyard to the stables. They were all saddened by the deaths of Saldrimek and Fiat, including Varin himself, but the highborn offered the mounts of the deceased to Caraoc and Casaythe for the morning. The rest of the group had their own dark steeds in the stables, and Varin himself would ride his snarling horse on this occasion. Without waiting for Sevro to return from the vaults, even the oldest members of the group not knowing where they were hidden, Varin was leading them out through the gate. It wasn't far to the North Gate, and going on horseback made the journey a short one. As they neared the north road, galloping as fast as their mounts could carry them, the sound of battle once again returned to their keen ears. Readying themselves in anticipation, the mercenaries followed Varin on towards the North Gate.

Just a few short minutes ride further north, they slowed their pace slightly as they caught sight of the last of the fighting. The Midnight Guardians filled the road right across it's width up ahead, standing twenty across on the edge of the square before the gate. The square beyond them was full of armoured Chaos Warriors, the barbarians that had accompanied them having long since been dealt with by the deadly warriors of the Drach. They couldn't see the edges of the square but Varin assured them that the last of the Northmen were completely surrounded in the square, the roads either side of the gate blocked by Midnight Guardians as well. As they drew nearer, they could see that the gate beyond the battle was shut, the intruders having closed it again to keep the Khainites that had circled around the City to get behind them at bay. The Drach had been wise enough not to knock his own door down with his Dragon, leaving the Hag and her small army standing frustrated beyond the walls, impatiently baying for more blood. Their bloodthirsty cries carried over even the swordplay in the square.

The Drach himself was circling on his Black Dragon, unable to unleash the deadly toxic breath of the monster due to the close proximity of his warriors to the enemies. Nor could he land in their midst, for these Chaos Warriors were armed with long heavy halberds, and they presented a wall of sharp points for the Dragon every time it swept too close. The group could see that the Northmen wore long fur cloaks as well as their all enclosing armour, the cloth material a deep blue and the armour the dark silver of iron. Most of them wore horned helmets, and some were burdened with obvious mutations, from extra arms and bony protrusions to distended jaws full of long fangs. The Chosen Warriors were fighting back relentlessly against the wall of Druchii that opposed them, but under the watchful eye of their Lord the Midnight Guardians were not giving an inch back to the intruders as they slowly regained the City one step at a time, every single step earned in bloodshed and death.

"It is still a stalemate" exclaimed Varin, "Just as it was when I flew back to the estate, even though the Drach has now arrived. We are outnumbered inside the walls three to one, yet have them cornered like the dogs they are. Even with nowhere to go, these Northmen do not admit defeat though. If we could open the gatehouse, the Hag and her forces would see this finished in a few short moments of bloody slaughter. To get to the gatehouse though, even if we circle around and come from the right, we'd have to get through dozens of these northern bastards..."



Varin was cut off by a sudden cheer from the Chaos forces amassed around the gate, just as they reached the back of the Midnight Guardians' line, only a few feet from the constant exchange of halberd blows back and forth between the two factions. Some of the fighting seemed to slow to a halt, and from their vantage of horseback the group could see a small clearing forming just off to their right, where the Druchii line met that of the Chosen. Warriors from both sides stepped back and made space respectfully as their champions finally met face to face. Kalius Bane had been working her way up the line towards the Chaos Champion since spotting him, her lethal Starmace having had much more of an impact on the enemy numbers in this fight than the halberds of her warriors. The Chaos Champion had come to the front of the fighting after wreaking havoc on those Guardians who had already made an attempt on the gatehouse. He was a big, iron clad giant of a man, wielding a great axe that oozed with the raw power of the North almost as much as he did. His weapon glowed an ominous blue, and his ornate plate armour was wrought with all manner of gold sigils that seemed to still burn with the fire of their creation.

The Drach, content to watch this battle his great champion was about to partake in, landed his Black Dragon on a nearby rooftop and looked on, his chilling gaze keeping all heads from turning his way.

In a flash of recognition, Caraoc remembered the Chaos Lord from his vision, an afterthought almost forgotten about since finding the tablet. He had seen him standing triumphantly over Kalius Bane.

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Post by Calisson »

Caraoc was given a horse named Locke.
He stared at the animal. Not his favourite transport. Ships, he could steer easily. Travelling in the air, he was improving.
But controlling an animal, that was like controlling a woman, there always had to be some unpredictable reaction to handle.
At least, that was a quicker transport than just walking, and it would sollicitate other muscles.

Arriving at the North Gate, they found a still solid group of Norsemen, who were refusing to become hopeless slaves as they should.
The lord indicated the gate as a goal which would help to spare the blood of elves - even at the cost of she-elves but they were dedicated to Khaine and lost for all others.

Suddenly, all eyes turned towards a couple of formidable warriors.
The Druchii great champion, Bane herself, was facing a horned giant Norseman champion.
Caraoc remembered the Chaos Lord from his vision, an afterthought almost forgotten about since finding the tablet. He had seen him standing triumphantly over Kalius Bane.

So this was the predicted outcome?
Caraoc reacted swiftly and proposed Casaythe and the rest of the group:
"I bet 50 gold on the Norseman."

Trying to make good use of his vision.
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Equipment: staff, repeater handbow (8 clips + 18/20), Sea Dragon Cloak,
Inventory: "Beastbane" Horn - Mount: Locke (formerly given to Fiat) - Gold: 100
Skills: Power of Azyr (2), Evasion
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Post by Raneth »

Despite its barding weighing it down, Blanky galloped through the streets at an alarming pace, invigorating Vryala even further for the battle ahead. The sounds of war were drawing closer again - Vikarh's fate hung in the balance yet. Now they encountered the Midnight Guard, locked in combat with true aberrations of warriors. V growled in disgust; she recognized their dubious blessings all too well, those accursed Daemonic twins had made damn sure of that. Her mind flashed back to Photus, the rogue wizard. She wondered what pact he'd made that day, and whether this conflict was the result of it.

The Boss interrupted her train of thought, offering them a way to tip the scales in Druchii favour. Of course, V was all for it, feeling pretty confident that Blanky had the strength to carry her a good way towards mentioned gate. It was then that her gaze was drawn to the duel between Champions. The clash of blades died down as all turned to watch the outcome of the fight. Even the Drach, sat up high, directed his Dragon away from slaughter to indulge in this show. Sir, V whispered to Varin, this is our chance! We should ride now, and allow the Hag's forces back to the bloodshed! But then, out of the blue, the Corsair wizard spoke, and his words were less than respectful. Angrily, V gestured at him with her blade. Careful what you say boy. This is no time for jokes!
Vryala Naïlo - WS5 / S5 / T5 / D5 / I4

Equipment: bastard sword of Speed, shield of Defence, repeater (20/20), spear, mace, dagger, Armour of Night, SDC, whip, blowpipe (9/12)
Inventory: amulet of Strength, grapple, grenade x0, smoke x11, map, mage hand, sleep oil x8, cure balms x20, Yori's balms x1, winter gear, old kit, lion mask
Mount: Dark Steed (Blanky), barding, talisman of Protection
Gold: 1735
Skills: Defensive Fighting, Anarin Sarath (2), Basic Ride
Class: Warrior
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Post by Drainial »

Though Elysian was still not entirely at home on horseback it was a blessed relief to ride rather than walk or, worse still, fly to the north gate. With Euan doing the running they were soon at the action but fortunately the Chaos warriors were in no position to attack them just yet. Likewise though their most powerful assets in this fight, the Drach's dragon and the Hag's miabed, were also unable to engage. Varin suggested opening the gate thus allowing the pretty ladies into the fray. Frankly Elysian had doubts about the witch elves' ability to end this particular battle. Against the almost entirely un-armoured horde of beastmen they had been in their element, against disciplined warriors swathed in armour he feared the lithe beauties would be the ones cut to ribbons in spite of their legendary aggression. On the other hand the executioners were doubtless with them and their Draichs could well be just the ticket.

All this was well and good but between them and the gate stood a company of chaos warriors and Elysian could not help but remember the last time they had tried to capture a gate house at the beginning of all this. If they had failed then against a much smaller force of Druchii with the backup of Saldrimek and Fiat why should they fare any better now. Varin was no slouch in combat but he was no better than they had been.

As he was considering all of this Elysian's attention was drawn, as was that of most of the unengaged elves in the square, to the duel that was unfolding. Bane looked impressive striding forward with her Starmace, doubtless convinced of her immanent triumph. The Chaos lord looked no less assured however and Elysian remembered Caroc's vision.

"I bet 50 gold on the Norseman," the elf himself spoke up. This seemed to annoy Vryala, Khaine knew why Bane was no friend to her. A night of losing friends, near constant battle and the company of Phalx had perhaps aggravated her temper. He suspected the absence of Sevro from their little gathering may also have been a cause.

"I think he is right, his vision led us to the tablet and it predicted her death. Still she has been no great friend to us in the past and even if there were something we could do to stop it, which I doubt, they are duelling. If these chaos scum have honour enough not to interfere in single combat between champions can we really do less?"

Moving his horse closer to Caroc Elysian lowered his voice speaking only to him
"I advise against one of your displays 'pilot', I don't know how things work at sea but if the authorities here find a whiff of Vauvalka it will bring nothing good for either of us. In the chaos of tonight we may escape judgement but not notice and believe me when I say it would be better to die from a blade in the gut than to be caught and handed over to the convent. If you must do any enchanting make it subtle, even in the midst of battle people will notice a thunderbolt and the Drach watches all."

Advising Caroc to keep the lightning bolts to a minimum in order to avoid horrible death in the long run. Other than that he will go along with Varin's plan on the grounds that he is the boss though with grave misgivings. Needless to say he too will be keeping quiet on the magic front.
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Post by Layne »

The boss talked his usual stream of optimistic nonsense. But she knew he too had been up all night hitting thins so she could hardly refuse his suggestion ; she saddled up like the rest. She also made up her mind that no matter what she was not fighting on horseback. Tonight she was not letting go of her sword, and she knew well that her sword was less than ideal for fighting mounted. It was light enough to swing one-handed, but too long to do so easily.

The battle in the north was more or less even ; the Northmen stronger but surrounded, and the Eastern army stuck outside the gate. The Boss said it would be their job to open the gate, and K, not seeing readily how that could be done, waited for his lead. So she sat on her horse and waited, listening to his chatter, tapping the flat of her sword lazily on her shoulder.

Then he was interrupted by a mighty cheer from the human army. Their biggest bluest meanie was coming forward, and out of the crowd of Midnight Guardians, the Bane lady was coming up to meet him. K got the idea now, remembering what the magic pirate had said. Which meant that what's-her-Bane would die. Or did it? They had untrued every other part of the vision so far. The pirate said he bet on the Northman, though K - who personally would not miss Bane - felt more inclined to back the Elvish champion. She also felt that right now was maybe the time to try to get through, while they were fighting, if that was possible. But she knew that whatever else, she had to follow Blackthorn's lead.

Saying nothing and waiting.
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Karonath - WS6 / S4 / T4 / D5 / I3
Equipment: Bloodfeather, heavy armour, helm, Sea Dragon Cloak, rope x 2, month rations x 2
Inventory: longspear, 2 short swords, glaive, winter gear, shade cloak,
Mount: Dark Steed (Shiny), talisman of kurnous
Gold: 2294
Skills: Ambidexterity, Controlled Frenzy, Basic Ride, Drukh Kaganth
Class: Khainite
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Post by Nightcall »

Casaythe had presumed he would be marching to the north gate. He was wrong. Two black steeds were led out; one for Caraoc and one for him. They were to be a loan and had once belonged to the companions that had only so recently been sent to Khaine's realm. Casaythe had no qualms about taking what he wanted, but this felt strange. To ride a horse that had belonged to and bonded with one of the mercenary group felt awkward. As he swung himself into the saddle, he noticed the beast sensed his anxiety and it snorted. He ruffled its mane to try to calm it and asked, 'Does this one have a name?'

**********

A while later he had arrived at the gate with the others where the battle was raging still. The ride had been uncomfortable, the canter on the hard cobbles had jolted him in his armour, his already aching body feeling all the more bruised. Pulling the reins of his steed he scanned the scene before himself, hearing Caraoc's remark. Vryala and Elysian quickly responded, and Casaythe simply covered his eyes with one hand and shook his head. 'Caraoc, I wouldn't like to put money on it. But I'll see you cough up that gold by the end of the day!' he added with a grin.

They had fought against so much already. He was feeling confident. 'Today's a good day to meet Khaine, no?' he stated, taking his glaive from his back and holding it like a lance.

To battle!
Casaythe Blackstorm - Warrior (Corsair) - Group 22
Skills: Awareness, Endurance
Equipment: Short Sword, Glaive, Medium Armour, Sea Dragon Cloak, Repeater Crossbow, clip of bolts [11/20], 405 gold, Talisman of Darkness, Tool Kit, 2 months' rations
Stats: WS4, S4, T5, D3, I4

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Calisson
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Post by Calisson »

OOC @ Nightcall: to my best knowledge, Saldrimek did not name his steed.
IC.


"Bane on her knees, the dark horned lord standing over her, axe and mace locked as one."
Caraoc's vision had predicted the outcome of the duel.
So far, the vision had proved to be accurate unless some action had been specifically taken to design a different future.

Caraoc had reminded the group about that outcome, using his favourite, oblique way, rather than being straightforward - and boring, to his opinion.

Vryala suggested to use the duel as a diversion and get to the gate. It proved an acute tactical sense that even Caraoc could apreciate.
However, she resented about Caraoc's joke. Obviously war was a serious business for her.
Does she have a life at all? wondered Caraoc.
She did not suggest to try and change the predicted future, though.
Was she just paying a deep - and last - respect to the great warrior which was bound to fatally terminate a glorious career in front of her eyes?

Elysian showed not the slightest wish to prevent the duel to have a difficult ally disappear from Vikrah.
He got closer to Caraoc and confirmed him that magic was much more a problem than a solution in this crowded place. Was him afraid to be sent flying soon again?

-=-

"The horned warrior again, armour splattered with blood, a cruel sneer of triumph upon his lips, as he turned his back on Vikarh."
Something had to be done about the prediction.
There was a better exploitation than betting 50 g.
There were other issues than opening a gate.
There was a case for intelligence, psychology and twisted slither.

Caraoc approached Varin, showing deepest respect. He asked permission to speak and told him:
"Sir Mylord, if I may.
The duel has started, noboy will interfere.
I have seen that duel in the vision that Gods sent me.
They showed Lady Bane defeated by the Chaos champion.
Such outcome will boost the morale of the Norsemen and make our battle more difficult.
Sir, if one second after defeating Bane, the horned champion is killed by your hands, that would not breach the duel's rules.
The Norsemen's morale would not be boosted, but lowered.
And you, having defeated Bane's victor, you would become the day's saviour.
Then we could rush by surprise at the gate."

Better him to be the hero of the day than the Hag.

Just in case, Caraoc readied his repeater.

Suggesting Varin to kill the Chaos champion immediately as he emerges victorious over Bane.
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Inventory: "Beastbane" Horn - Mount: Locke (formerly given to Fiat) - Gold: 100
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Raneth
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Post by Raneth »

OOC: V's a warrior, warring is what she does, which makes war srs bznz indeed. As far as having a life goes... not really. :P

IC;

Caraoc recomposed himself, now speaking in more humble tones as he explained his vision to Blackthorn's mercs. Vryala nodded, now she understood; the uncovered tablet had at least lent some credibility to the Corsair's words.

So Bane would fall. Though V didn't much like her, she knew the Drach - nay, Vikarh - could ill afford the loss of such a powerful fighter. The urge to unleash the Maibs grew stronger, Bane's death could not be in vain, something had to be done. But killing Bane's opponent? By Khaine's mercy, if the Midnight Commander would not succeed, what hope did any of them have? No, far better to ram a tide of Witch Elves down Chaos' throat - let's see their morale hold up under such punishment!

...It's Varin's call, after all.
Vryala Naïlo - WS5 / S5 / T5 / D5 / I4

Equipment: bastard sword of Speed, shield of Defence, repeater (20/20), spear, mace, dagger, Armour of Night, SDC, whip, blowpipe (9/12)
Inventory: amulet of Strength, grapple, grenade x0, smoke x11, map, mage hand, sleep oil x8, cure balms x20, Yori's balms x1, winter gear, old kit, lion mask
Mount: Dark Steed (Blanky), barding, talisman of Protection
Gold: 1735
Skills: Defensive Fighting, Anarin Sarath (2), Basic Ride
Class: Warrior
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Kinslayer
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Post by Kinslayer »

OOC - Locke was Fiats' dark steed, Caraoc took that one. I don't think Saldrimek ever named his steed, but he was the best rider amongst the group and his dark steed is the most experienced. When the others found him in the Northern Wastes he had already been riding it there for two years.

IC -

The group waited for Varin to make the first move, but made their opinions on the task at hand well known. To use any kind of magic would be too risky with the Drach watching them like a hawk, and to even attempt to retake the gate house again would be foolhardy. As Vryala pointed out however, if they were going to go for it anyway their best chance of success was while the Chosen Warriors were distracted by the duel. Only on the very flanks of the wall of bodies did Druchii and Northmen still exchange blows, unable to see the duel where those closer to the centre of the line had all formed a circle to watch. From horseback, the group could still see over the ranks of the enemy to the gate and the far corners of the square. There they saw the other small contingents of Midnight Guardians blocking the roads to the left and right, keeping the Chaos forces pinned with their backs to the wall and gate. The rightmost Guardians' were twenty bodies from the gatehouse, but the Chosen were attacking them ferociously and they were not taking back any more ground.

Their eyes were drawn back to the duel, the crackle of magical power and a loud clash heralding the first meeting of the Chaos Lords' axe and Banes' dreaded Starmace. Arcane sparks hissed into the air as the two powers' came to blows, the mace blocking the first swing of the axe and earning Bane a roar of approval from her warriors. The axe swung back and fell into great sweeping arcs again and again, the Chaos Lord beginning to try and break down Banes' defence with sheer brute force and unrelenting force. The Champion of Vikarh met every blow with her Starmace, knocking the axe away only for it to come back down a moment later, every time a different angle, every time a perfect block. Suddenly Bane turned the odds, catching the blade of the axe between the spikes of her mace and turning it aside. She twisted inside the reach of the axe and brought her mace around in a spin, crunching the head of the deadly weapon into the Chaos Lords' exposed side with bone breaking force.



Armour dented and the Starmace stuck, several of it's long iron spikes having punched through into the Chaos Lords' body and wedged themselves in his flesh. While Bane clearly had the Chaos Lord outmatched in agility however, even her formidable strength was feeble compared to that of the giant human, blessed by the Dark Gods of the North. Taking his axe in a one handed grip the moment the Starmace struck, the Chaos Lord reached down and grabbed the haft of the Midnight Champions' weapon. He held it in place, pinning it to his side even as it was sunk into his flesh, preventing Bane from pulling it free. He lifted his axe one handed, and smashed it down on the ground where Bane had been standing. Vikarhs' Champion had been forced to release her grip on her weapon, and dive aside as the axe struck the ground and kicked up chunks of stone from the square beneath their feet. The Chaos Lord turned after Bane as she rolled into a circling sprint behind him, but was slow in comparison to the nimble Druchii Champion.

Bane got behind the Chaos Lord even as he continued to turn, and grabbed the hilt of her Starmace once more before turning on the spot, using the Chaos Lords' own momentum against him to rip her weapon free in a spray of blood as he rounded on her, snarling through the grill of his helmet even before the pain. The axe went for Banes' head but she ducked under it, before leaping up from a crouch, catching the return swing with her mace. A moment later, the pair were back where they had started, the Chaos Lord bringing his axe up and down like a blacksmiths' hammer beating a sword into shape, Bane turning each blow aside with a well placed block, parry or riposte. Less than a minute had passed since the two great champions came to blows, and every advantage had quickly been neutralised, the cheers of the two forces barely able to keep up with the ever changing tide of the duel. The two warriors were still exchanging blows when the mercenary group turned their eyes back to their own Lord, realising that Varin had just turned his steed around and was talking to them.

"I can see no better option, we must circle around these buildings and join the fight off on the right side of the square, as close to the gate house as possible. The Champion Bane faces was keeping it safeguarded against the Midnight Guardians' attacks, but now he is distracted by the duel. No matter the outcome of that fight, this is our opportunity."



They turned their horses after him, following his lead down the road towards a narrow street that led them around the block and back towards the square from the east. It only took them a few moments to gallop around, and they approached a dozen Midnight Guardians' from behind, the twelve warriors standing shoulder to shoulder to keep the Chosen in the square. Judging by the bodies on the floor, two of the Guardians' had fallen in the line, but the armoured bodies of several Chosen littered the path as well. Only where a contingent of Midnight Guardians had broken through to charge the gatehouse had they died in great numbers, surrounding themselves with armoured enemies and coming face to face with the mighty Chaos Lord before he had caught sight of Bane and gone to face her. Now without the deadly champion of Chaos in their path, the way forwards was only blocked by the Chosen Warriors, though they alone were threat enough to make the task a dangerous one for all involved.

"If we charge on horseback we'll break right through the first few ranks, but they'll cut our steeds out from under us before we even get close to the gate," Varin said, though the mercenaries could already see that sat in the saddles beside him as they were.

"We strike out on foot," he said as he dismounted, before he levelled his blade at the Chosen Warriors and roared "The Drach watches over us. Let's give him something to marvel at!"
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Post by Raneth »

Vryala impassively regarded the match between Bane and the Tzeentch Champion, until Varin finally relented and went with common sense. Well, as common as sense could be considered in the face of this Northmen onslaught. Mutated, all of them, their armor warped and sheared to accomodate their extreme irregularities. The Midnight Guard were having a damn hard time with them, many of Vikarh's heroes would fall this day; V just prayed to Khaine she and her friends would not be among them.

Then, death or glory it is. If this doesn't convince the Drach that Blackthorn is anything but loyal to Vikarh, I don't know what will.

At the command, V stepped up to the task at hand. Another sore test for her shield awaited. The group needed to not only to bust through, but protect the squishies from harm while doing it. A strong wedge was in order, and she resolved to be the tip, reckoning having K and Varin's killing power on either side might provide the unit with enough momentum to reach the gate. V touched the Amulet around her neck. It had already served her well today; in times of dire need she seemed to subconsciously trigger it. And I would say times are dire indeed. Let's see what it's worth!

V hurls herself shield first into the Chaos ranks at top speed, trusting the others will catch on. Let's murder us some Chosen!
Vryala Naïlo - WS5 / S5 / T5 / D5 / I4

Equipment: bastard sword of Speed, shield of Defence, repeater (20/20), spear, mace, dagger, Armour of Night, SDC, whip, blowpipe (9/12)
Inventory: amulet of Strength, grapple, grenade x0, smoke x11, map, mage hand, sleep oil x8, cure balms x20, Yori's balms x1, winter gear, old kit, lion mask
Mount: Dark Steed (Blanky), barding, talisman of Protection
Gold: 1735
Skills: Defensive Fighting, Anarin Sarath (2), Basic Ride
Class: Warrior
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Post by Calisson »

The duel was fascinating. It reminded Caraoc a couple of good fights once seen in Shadow Arena. But Khaine! These two fighters were outstanding.

Blackthorn had taken a decision. He ordered the group to ride around a block, and get closer to both the gate and the duellists.
When they arrived there, a minute later, the duel was still going on.

Everyone dismounted.
One wounded Midnight Guard was resting nearby, no longer able to fight. He could watch the steeds, provided nothing special happened.

The duel was raging, and Blackthorn showed no will to queue up for a fight against the horned champion.
If the duel found an end on the spot, he might size the opportunity as Caraoc had suggested.
But for the time being, the group prepared to fight its way to the gate.

Caraoc considered the situation. There was a terribly long way to go across a multitude of formidable Chaos warriors.
Still, Caraoc was confident that, as long as he would never try to strike but only to evade the hits, his agility and his inner sense of evasion would allow him to escape the easily predictable kicks.

His puny handbow and his wooden staff would not make much difference against such armoured tin cans.
It could only make the Norsemen burst in laughter, provided they had a sense of humor, which Caraoc was not confident they had.
He would not even be useful as a distraction, he was obviously not a threat to them.
There was one field where he would be useful: to manipulate the gate itself.
"My handbow is ready. But I feel more useful in opening the gate while you all protect me."

Preparing to evade hits rather than fight. Preparing to open the gate.

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Equipment: staff, repeater handbow (8 clips + 18/20), Sea Dragon Cloak,
Inventory: "Beastbane" Horn - Mount: Locke (formerly given to Fiat) - Gold: 100
Skills: Power of Azyr (2), Evasion
Class: Mage (Astromancer)
Winds never stop blowing, Oceans are borderless. Get a ship and a crew, so the World will be ours! Today the World, tomorrow Nagg! {--|oBrotherhood of the Coast!o|--}
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Post by Dauricha »

Phalx did find a drink. A half bottle of wine that he guzzled down, smashing the bottle as he mounted. Through the pain numbing ointments and other treatments of Yurul, he barely felt the wine sloshing in his belly. Once more into battle, behind their noble Varin. Uh, the bastard was alright So they rode north. His ragged cloak, more rags then anything now, flapped behind him. Onwards to battle, this must be it, this must be the end of the mad few days. How had it begun? There was a vampire, no a demon, no a rat? His mind could puzzle through the nightmares when he finally slept.

They arrived, blood and slaughter like everywhere else. They were the last pieces, soon they would fall. The wild Shade might as well be there. The duel began, and what a display it as. He averted his eyes from the Drach, focused on that fine mace, and the brutal axe. They moved off, slipping off his horse to follow the rest of them. These brutes were minor champions in their own right, no foe to face lightly. Let his comrades charge in, screams of blood and slaughter, this was not his moment for that.

Phalx will follow in the shadow of his comrades reckless charge, sword ready to aid them where he can, making sure wounded foes are dead, hamstringing others.
Phalx Tr'dasr – WS5 / S4 / T4 / D5 / I4
Equipment: Deathspitter (5/20) 4 of these poisoned (1/2x QD, 3xSD), short sword, dagger, punching dagger (Bloodthirst Rune), shade cloak, full leather armour
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Skills: Basic Stealth, Precision Fire, Basic Ride, Frenzy, Ambidexterity,Suithenlu Khythan (1): SP2
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Post by Kinslayer »


The mercenaries dismounted behind the Midnight Guardians, losing sight of the duel that was still raging at the front of the human regiment. Bane had taken a glancing hit from the great axe a moment ago, the blade shearing the severed head of Kirathi straight from her shoulder spike along with the spike itself, giving the Sorceress an even more undignified end as her skull was crushed underfoot. The blow had given the advantage back to the Chaos Lord, and he was now pressing Bane hard, forcing her to back away as she ducked and leaned around the rapid succession of axe swipes that followed. Her Starmace was held almost loosely at her side as she dodged instead of parried, but as the mercenaries left their horses they heard the sickening crunch of the heavy spiked maul smashing into armour again. Bane had obviously found an opening to strike back and had taken it, proving once again that the two champions were almost evenly matched. The group knew as well as Varin did that even he could not stand up to Bane in combat, meaning the Chaos Lord may well best him too. Still, the way he watched the duel they got the feeling he was considering Caraocs' words even as he first attempted to retake the gate.

Now Caraoc suggested something else, that he was no use in combat against the armoured bulk of the Chosen Warriors, and there Elysian had to agree with him as well, but they were the ideal candidates to slip inside the gatehouse and work the levers while the rest of the group held the Chosen at bay. Phalx was lightly armoured as well, but his magical crossbow had proven on many occasions that armour was of no use against his keen shot. The Shade had fought alongside Vryala and Karonath for years, and had quickly learned his place in such assaults as this. He would follow in their wake, finishing off survivors and keeping the girls' backs safe as they took the brunt of the carnage head on, shield up and Draich twirling. Vryala declared that she would lead the charge, with Varin and K a step behind her at her sides, Casaythe and Phalx behind them. This caused Varin to chuckle lightly despite the gravity of the situation. It was a trait the Corsairs' were unfamiliar with, but which the rest of the group were well familiar with. Varin was light hearted for a Druchii even at war, but they knew not to mistake his wry smile for softness, and he was certainly capable of dark, brooding moods as well. Sevro on the other hand was as cold and formidable as an iron wall, not even Vryala had seen him laugh, barely even smile. His blade would be sorely missed in the test to come.

"Strong and courageous as you are, do you really think I would follow in the second rank when the Drach will be watching. I must show him my true loyalty to Vikarh, my fearlessness and my honour!"

The highborn gave Vryala a wink as he stepped past her to form the spear tip of their wedge, leaving her beside Karonath in the second rank. Phalx and Casaythe were behind the girls, with Elysian and Caraoc sheltered in the middle.

"And you, my humble mercenaries, you are there to show everyone what it means to mess with House Blackthorn! Now, with me... to death or victory! For the Drach! For Vikarh! Charge!"



The Midnight Guardians had stepped aside and four Chosen Warriors had burst through the gap to meet the oncoming Druchii head on, finally finding a way out of the square where they had been penned in and cornered. Varin met the first of them head on, darting left as he reached him and slashing his red dragon hilted longsword across the exposed flesh of his arm, or rather the tentacle that writhed where an arm should be. Varin sheared the mutated limb straight off, already plunging his blade through the throat of the next, unmasked Chosen Warrior as the wounded one was hacked down by V and K behind him. On they went, the next two Chosen to have broken out through the gap falling moments after the first, Varin completely passing one only to decapitate the other, as Vryala and Karonaths' cuts disarmed the human as they passed him, leaving it to Casaythe to run him through. The group did not lose momentum, and they hit the wall of Chosen moments later.

The crash of steel on iron was deafening, mingled with the roars of the Chosen and the cries of the Druchii, the wet squelch of sword through flesh, and the screams of the wounded and the dying. The groups momentum plunged them through the first three ranks, leaving some Chosen dead or missing their unarmoured, mutated limbs, and others simply barrelled from their feet to be trampled. Phalx was already gutting the ones that had fallen in the wake of their charge, Elysian and Caraoc avoiding incoming halberd strikes and the lashing of tainted arms as they too lashed out here and there, ramming stave hafts or blades into whatever was still twitching on the floor as they stepped past. For all the damage dealt with the impact of the charge however, their momentum abruptly slowed due to the weight of bodies ranked against them, and the fact that more and more of the armoured brutes were turning their attention on the Druchii that had just broken into their midst.

Halberds chopped for them, and suddenly what had been an all out charge was a mixture of lunging attacks and desperate blocks and ripostes, each step forward now being earned rather than simply taken from the Chosen.

They still had a long way to go, and the press of bodies was already starting to force their fighting wedge into more of a defensive circle, Phalx and Casaythe being pushed in at the back by the sheer number of foes.
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Post by Raneth »

Already taking the lead, V was a bit surprised by her employer shouldering his way past her to claim his place at the front. She shook her head slightly, smiling, and shrugged. Have it your way, stubborn old man. So it would be, and if truly the Drach did take note of the action of a few renegade mercenaries instead of being enthralled by his Champion's duel, it would not stand to falter - even if it would mean the death of all of them. It was the ultimate gambit.

Varin lunged in, K and V one sword behind, with the others either finishing up the flanks or being boxed in by the formation relatively safe. And indeed it seemed to work for a short while, arms and tentacles and other warped extremities flying about as the group cut through the horde. Then, of course, the sheer mass of bodies became an issue, so much so that she doubted her strength and shield in front would have carried them any further than Varin's blade. They could not afford to be halted, though, and needed to break through posthaste if they were to stand a chance in Hell.

Onward, forward. As her shield pressed against the tide, Vryala reached for her belt. She knew something spectacular was needed, something to remove the weight of the bodies behind those of who their blades were clashing with. Something that might, Khaine willing, draw the Drach's eye to them, and make him realise House Blackthorn to be of great honour once and for all. My very last one. Better make it count...

Tosses her last grenade over the head of the Chosen she's fighting, hopefully clearing a little space between the group and the gatehouse.
Vryala Naïlo - WS5 / S5 / T5 / D5 / I4

Equipment: bastard sword of Speed, shield of Defence, repeater (20/20), spear, mace, dagger, Armour of Night, SDC, whip, blowpipe (9/12)
Inventory: amulet of Strength, grapple, grenade x0, smoke x11, map, mage hand, sleep oil x8, cure balms x20, Yori's balms x1, winter gear, old kit, lion mask
Mount: Dark Steed (Blanky), barding, talisman of Protection
Gold: 1735
Skills: Defensive Fighting, Anarin Sarath (2), Basic Ride
Class: Warrior
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Calisson
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Post by Calisson »

What am I doing here? wondered Caraoc.
During his long time as a Fleet's corsair, he would more than often remain onboard the ships rather than raid ashore.
Only against the softest foes would his squad of handbow wielders be sent as reinforcement.
Here in the midst of heavily armoured chaos warriors, he felt useless. Worse, it might become dangerous.

If at least, Elysian and himself could tilt the fate in their favour?
But no, it would be too dangerous to manipulate the winds of magic when the Drach himself was watching.

Wait... Was he watching at all? There was no way to know.
Except...
As no halberd was aimed at them for a whole second, he told discreetely to his neighbour:
"Elysian, when the Norse Lord will win against Bane, at that precise time, everyone and the Drach will look at them two.
For a few seconds, nobody will care about us. This is when we can use our magic unnoticed."


He did not know yet what action would be the most appropriate.
In any case, he started to build up as much Azyr energy as he could.

Soo... When the Norse Lord will win, he will cheer loudly. He will raise his weapon.
All Norsemen will do the same, cheer and raise weapons.
The Druchii will have the opposite attitude, lowering their weapons.
Spiky weapons raised in the air when the atmosphere is magically stormy, that calls for a lightning.
The second I hear their roar, this is when they must hear the thunder.
Well, that's powerful, but risky.

On the other hand, a dense rain, that would make their armours heavier and prone to rust.
And we would be more difficult to spot during our progression, by friend and foe alike.
At least, the victorious champion would not bother us too soon.
Yeah, better. Let's go for thunder and rain.

Pom pom pom!

He started a song with thunder, wind and rain, strong shadows and slain Norsemen.
"I wait for the sign in the sky to appear - Telling me that the moment has come
For me to ride beyond the edge of this world - Into the realms where the shadows are strong

Gods of thunder of wind and of rain - Valkyries their souls is yours when they fail
Let their beheaded and battered corps lay - And take me where you have all Nordsmen slain"


Concentrating on a spell. Waiting for the best moment to cast. Following the group and avoiding hits.

<OOC: (already used once) Bathory: Gods Of Thunder Of Wind And Of Rain
Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6lKeH4C3wU
Lyrics: http://www.lyrics007.com/Bathory%20Lyri ... yrics.html

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Caraoc the scald pilot - WS3 S4 T2 D5 I5 - A saga or it didn't happen!
Equipment: staff, repeater handbow (8 clips + 18/20), Sea Dragon Cloak,
Inventory: "Beastbane" Horn - Mount: Locke (formerly given to Fiat) - Gold: 100
Skills: Power of Azyr (2), Evasion
Class: Mage (Astromancer)
Winds never stop blowing, Oceans are borderless. Get a ship and a crew, so the World will be ours! Today the World, tomorrow Nagg! {--|oBrotherhood of the Coast!o|--}
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Post by Nightcall »

At the crescendo of the noble's rousing speech, Casaythe gripped his halberd and roared as they threw themselves into the fray. The dual was still going on as far as he could tell, and the gate was a thick mass of bodies locked in combat. It was a struggle that would push the city over the brink or save it. Already they had prevented the forces of the North from claiming the golden tablet. Was that really what they had come here for?

Then the Midnight Guardians stepped aside. It was as if floodgates had been opened, and a surge of furious brutes surged towards them. Casaythe stepped forwards with grim purpose, stabbing the head of his glaive forwards whenever a marauder came too close. Wary of hurled axes or other projectiles, he was careful to try to dodge anything that came too close.

They fought as a well coordinated killing group, and it hardly seemed possible to him that he had only run into the group a day or so ago. They were up against Chosen now, the select of the Ruinous Powers. The going was tough, yet he forced his body to carry on. He hadn't fought like this since that time in Ulthuan, and the lust of battle sang through his blood as he swung his glaive this way and that.

Fighting. Stabbing at those that run towards the group, or chopping down where he can.
Casaythe Blackstorm - Warrior (Corsair) - Group 22
Skills: Awareness, Endurance
Equipment: Short Sword, Glaive, Medium Armour, Sea Dragon Cloak, Repeater Crossbow, clip of bolts [11/20], 405 gold, Talisman of Darkness, Tool Kit, 2 months' rations
Stats: WS4, S4, T5, D3, I4

Mod, Group 38
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Drainial
Prophet of Tzeentch
Prophet of Tzeentch
Posts: 4641
Joined: Fri May 19, 2006 3:51 pm
Location: I am the voice inside your head

Post by Drainial »

This was not Elysian's war. His war was in the shadows, a world of cloak and dagger where a whisper could kill and a sword was an idle threat. This was something else entirely. It was not new to him, already this night and others before it he had faced down foes upon the battle field but he was still out of place and nearly irrelevant. His staff was nothing but a stick, hardly a threat to the armoured northmen and banned from channelling magic by the presence of the Drach. All he could do was stick close to the others and try to keep his head on his shoulders. Maybe if they got near the gate house he could be of some use but only as an extra pair of hands. It was a sad thing to feel so helpless.

Elysian will stick close to the others, protect himself and them as best he can with his staff.
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