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Post by spacemanspoof on Jan 11, 2017 19:25:06 GMT -7
Kanir's first instinct is to retreat. A good soldier knows when he's outmatched, and Kanir figures that the group has no chance against the mass of creatures below. Even the few that approach seem quite formidable; he gets the feeling that merely touching them would be rather painful.
However, a good soldier also does not desert his squad, and he doubts that the creatures would let them all escape so easily. It seems they have no choice but to stand and fight, and hope that they can drive off enough of the creatures to make a getaway.
Kanir quickly goes through his usual combat preparations: he pulls his wand of Shield from his belt and casts it on himself, then hands it to Scragg who scurries back into the familiar satchel with the wand in his mouth. He then imbues his staff with a portion of his power as he takes a combat stance and looks for an opening to strike.
Initiative: cM4FUUMA+2
+2 quarterstaff:
Average attack: 19 (17 with spell combat)
Average damage: 9 (two-handed) / 8 (one-handed)
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Post by Rayl on Jan 12, 2017 3:14:40 GMT -7
Talon would try to step back, and cast create water as the rock-snakes began to peak over the hole, hoping that the threat of water might slow them down. He'd then start to level his crossbow, and say "I'd not attack those heads, they'd probably destroy our helmets. Go for body shots."
uR6S966V+2 for a 17 Initiative
13 to hit on a 10 both Melee and Ranged, With an average of 4 for the crossbow, 3 for his quarterstaff, and 2 for his dagger.
Sirru would quickly jab at the first one, shifting his spear down slightly with the thrust as Talon makes his suggestion. Afterwards, he takes a step back, prepping himself to be ready to cast a spell. "We could attempt a policy of an organized retreat, try to keep them at bay as we run. The problem would be when we get back to the crevice, where we'll be trapped."
+2 for a 21 Initiative
11 on a 10 to hit, average of 4 damage with his longspear.
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haksanlulz
Approvals
Filthy deviant plagiarist
Posts: 191 
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Post by haksanlulz on Jan 12, 2017 3:44:50 GMT -7
(OOC: forgot an item i got last session, stealth skill is slightly better, fixed)
Sev upon noticing he was being watched grew annoyed but couldn't help but smirk as he had a chance to test his blades once more. Seeing that whatever was spying on him seemed to retreat into hiding upon being spotted he took the chance to drink a purchased poultice of "Vanish", he only needed a view seconds to move positions he thought to himself, as he swiftly climbed up onto the ceiling of the cavern making sure to travel between stalactites as he approached his target.
zKeRgwof +43 = 63 Stealth (83 instead from invis if they're actually still observing me during me moving up the walls to the ceiling)
+14 = 24 Perception (approaching the last known location of the assumed spyglass, looking out for the enemy)
He knew from his travels, that even experienced adventurers tend to not notice what's directly in front of them even when specifically looking out for things. The worst offender of these missed spots being the ceiling, he had planned to drop onto the enemy, silence them and regroup with his "team" none the wiser. In the effect of failure they should be able to hear him fighting close by in the cavern, and in the case they were that oblivious they'd likely simply get in the way. The adrenaline pumping through him at this moment left him burning like his veins were filled with nothing but gasoline. Upon seeing his prey it lit a spark igniting a flame in his heart, he feel from the ceiling daggers drawn plunging into the flesh of his victim.
[26 to hit - twf] [34 average damage if the first strike includes sneak attack, 20 if not]
+43 = 62 Stealth (42 if its still alive)
+31 = 35 Climb vs. CMD (only if its still alive in general)
(OOC: If it's still alive)
The goblin swiftly moved on the surface of his prey, moving as softly as a mosquito and as nimble as a ferret. Hard to keep track of even for the creature he was currently treading upon. He had practiced to use his size to his advantage against his enemies and it was something he was proud of being small even among his own kind. He reflected that he needed to continue his training as he climbed his foe's frame.
(OOC: If it's dead)
Sev had accomplished his mission, he felt pride in himself whenever he was able to fulfill his goals. While a drawn out fight could prove to be fun, it also meant he needed more practice. His duty to his father was first and if he wasn't an efficient killer he was a useless tool. He reflected that he needed to continue his training as he sheathed his daggers and moved to catch up to the others.
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Geckilian
Leadership Council
Empires Mierely require time.
Posts: 1,026
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Post by Geckilian on Jan 12, 2017 5:14:45 GMT -7
The grenade sailed through the air and Piotr's timing was exact. Just as it hit the beast it detonated, blasting out a great chunk from its side. With a lumbering and juddering sigh it collapsed to the ground, its eyes unfocusing. Shielded from the blast by Piotr's good aim, Jhoren finished pulling himself up with Cassia's help, leaning heavily on her arm, and smiled at him. "Thank you, Piotr. We've not faced a bulette in a long while, I'd thought I was at an oblique enough angle to not be charged. More fool me it seems." he says, mildly coughing now and then between words.
Cassia will reach into a pouch on her belt before handing a small vial to Jhoren who drinks it with a brief nod of thanks. Jhoren gives a relaxed sigh as he stands up straighter after the potion and, aside from a few crackling noises of joints and bones, seems to be in a much better condition. As the pair of them clean their blades, Cassia turns to Piotr. "Those were good explosives. I didn't recognise what you were saying however, if it's alright to ask, what does it mean?"
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The first creature to strive forwards towards Kanir and Sirru is soundly smashed by Kanir's staff which elicits a wisp of smoke from the closest part of wood to the serpentine beast. Sirru's stab glances off it's body, the angle too shallow to drive the point home. Talon's shot from behind the pair lances forwards and manages to strike the creature's head rather than its body and it seems to hiss in displeasure, the sound of quenched fires echoing through the tunnel.
It coils back and surges forward more like a battering ram than a snake, the cone of its head roundly slamming into Kanir's side and leaving a severe burn that embers brightly on his flesh. The heat feels immense for Kanir as it feels like his skin is partially melting and fusing to his clothing where it struck. Behind it, three more fully emerge, melting the opening larger and incidentally widening the tunnel.
((DC 13 reflex save for Kanir or catch on fire, 5 points of damage. DC 13 reflex save for Sirru or spear begins to break apart and catch fire.))
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Sev expertly scaled the rocky walls, swiftly making his way to the tunnel where he saw the glint of light. As he got there, true enough there was a man swathed in dark clothing who had an almost elfin build - tall and slender, though he was crouched and hiding behind a rock. As he made his way to take another peak above the rock, Sev was able to drop on him, the daggers slicing down through the person's neck and down into his chest cavity, with the second plunging into the poor man's shoulder, clearly dislocating the arm with a meaty crack.
There was no cry of pain, nor alarm. The man simply crumpled to the ground, clearly dead from the surprise attack. After a few hurried moments of adrenaline, Sev realised his quarry hadn't even had the chance to put up a fight, so utterly unaware he was of Sev's approach and strikes. With how the man had fallen, some of the facial covering had slipped. To Sev's skilled eyes, he seemed to be a highly scarred drow, the dusky skin and wisps of white hair somewhat giving it away.
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haksanlulz
Approvals
Filthy deviant plagiarist
Posts: 191
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Post by haksanlulz on Jan 12, 2017 5:27:16 GMT -7
As Sev started to walk away from the corpse he made a double take to see it was a Drow male. Either it was an escaped slave or he wasn't alone, and a proud son of Norgorber leaves nothing to chance. He quickly climbed back up onto the cavern ceiling, and started to look and listen further down the cavern tunnels the Drow had been coming from. He had to check if there was anyone else coming before he went to rejoin with his group.
v0E899B9 + 14 = 16 Perception
He began traveling along the ceiling back toward the group after his quick recon, hopefully to warn his would-be comrades (of either suspected drow, or confirmed drow) if any of them understood sign language...
Taking 10 for 20 Local
Taking 10 for 20 Dungeoneering
+ 7 = 26 Nature
+ 7 = 24 Arcana
+ 7 = 21 Religion
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Geckilian
Leadership Council
Empires Mierely require time.
Posts: 1,026
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Post by Geckilian on Jan 12, 2017 5:39:20 GMT -7
From the scarring on the drow's face, Sev recognised the marks of an indentured slave, though the ritualistic marks also seemed to show some type of repatriation bond. Evidently the slave was of a high enough 'status' that the return of his body, dead or alive, was worth gold. Of course such a thing would be risky at the best of times thanks to the drow's usual view of outsiders, especially a goblin. One mark specifically caught his eye - an ownership mark belonging to the Temple of Webs, one of the drow religious sects within the depths of Salisara.
Regardless, checking down the tunnel revealed no additional presences, drow or otherwise, that Sev could discern and he was easily able to make his way back towards Piotr and his allies unperceived.
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Post by spacemanspoof on Jan 12, 2017 7:15:31 GMT -7
Reflex: oHz6djMT+6
Kanir recoils in pain as he quickly pats out the fire. "Yes, a fighting retreat!" he calls out to Sirru. "Fall back and cover each other!"
He turns his attention back toward the creature. He casts Chill Touch, attempting to charge his staff with negative energy, but unfortunately the searing pain in his side distracts him and causes the spell to fizzle. He determination remains, though. He makes a quick strike with his staff, aiming for a spot just behind the head, and then retreats, hoping that Sirru understood his strategy and is waiting behind with his spear at the ready.
Cast defensively: +11
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Post by Rayl on Jan 12, 2017 9:36:44 GMT -7
As Kanir would step back, Talon would follow. He would quickly conjure up a snowball, and then wait until Sirru was also clear of the searing hot monsters to throw it, making sure he had a clear line to throw it. Afterwards He'd put his Crossbow back, and draw his quarterstaff as well.
13 to Touch AC, with a 7 average cold and a DC14 Fort or be Staggered for a round.
Sirru Would be quick enough to pull his spear back to keep it from setting fire, giving it a slight twirl to throw off any embers. Moving back a step to keep up with the plan, he would cast grease on the floor in front of them and partially down the hole if possible. After this he would ready his spear again, to attack if one moves forwards to attack again.
c|pg6FT0+5 for a 19 reflex
Grease- DC15
AoO- 11 to hit, 4 average damage with longspear
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Geckilian
Leadership Council
Empires Mierely require time.
Posts: 1,026
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Post by Geckilian on Jan 12, 2017 11:46:56 GMT -7
With a solid strike to the creature causing it to hiss in displeasure, Kanir makes a fighting withdrawal. As it surges to follow it appears to keep its balance on the grease Sirru lays down, only for its strike to narrowly miss Kanir as Sirru's spear jabs forward and turns it aside. A deft movement from Sirru as before puts out the embers on the weapon. Whilst two of the fiery serpents seems to struggle with the floor, the third rushes forward to fill the space even as Talon's snowball slams into it. With a horrid retching screeching, it falls back behind the others. Patches of its rocky flesh are dark and barren, the fires there extinguished by the magical cold.
It seems only a temporary reprieve, as the pair that were making little progress on the grease seem to find their balance, burrowing through it to travel underneath. As the two go out of sight, Kanir, Sirru and Talon begin to feel vibration coming from underneath them, almost as if even more of the creatures are seeing to travel past them and cut off their retreat. If nothing else it suggests that they're more intelligent than base beasts, their coordination likely unwelcome to the mercenary trio. It seems unless drastic action is taken, they would be penned in from both sides in a narrow tunnel against enemies that can simply melt their way through the rock effectively trapping them.
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Post by Rayl on Jan 12, 2017 14:30:31 GMT -7
Talon, realizing the situation, simply says "If we stay here, we will die. If we run, we might die. Let's get out of here." With this he would all but turn and run, trying to get out of the trap that the rock snakes are planning. He would keep an eye behind him, striking out with his staff if the monsters got too close.
((Effectively a withdraw action))
Sirru, also deciding that a retreat is the best option, follows Talon rather quickly, and even begins outpacing him. He however would also keep an eye out behind him, his spear again ready to stab out.
((Same thing.))
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Post by spacemanspoof on Jan 12, 2017 17:02:53 GMT -7
Kanir, noticing the trap being set and seeing the others flee, turns to run as well. As he runs, he begins to recite the incantation for Acid Splash, intending to target the first creature that appears in their path. It likely won't do much to slow the creatures down, but perhaps he might buy them a few precious seconds.
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Geckilian
Leadership Council
Empires Mierely require time.
Posts: 1,026
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Post by Geckilian on Jan 12, 2017 18:21:38 GMT -7
As the trio rapidly retreat, the closest worm lashes out at Kanir, sensing the movement. It barely scrapes his back but it's enough to smoulder his flesh and send searing pain lancing through him. Their escape seems sure however, as the group are able to rapidly outpace the burrowing or openly following worms, far faster as they run down the smooth tunnel. The closest one that appears from the rock emerges partly behind them and is rewarded by Kanir's acid for its trouble, screeching slightly and flinching back, allowing them to run on unimpeded.
Without enemies actively in their way to slow them down, the group is able to reach the room with the partially uncovered chest. In a moment of catching their breath, none of them hears or feels any pursuit from down the tunnel and the lack of vibration from the surrounding rock suggests that the creatures either gave up their pursuit, or were ordered back.
((DC 13 reflex save for Kanir or catch on fire, 3 points of damage. I would recommend perception checks, though for now you are out of combat.))
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Post by spacemanspoof on Jan 12, 2017 21:23:27 GMT -7
Reflex bZGbBrJv+6
Kanir winces again as the worm strikes and his clothes begin to burn, but his surging adrenaline and combat training enable him to suppress the pain as he continues to run.
Upon reaching the cavern, he drops to the ground and rolls around to put out the fire. He then motions for the others to remain still and quiet for a few moments as they all catch their breath. Based on what he saw of the worms, he guesses that they may sense vibrations, as many tunneling creatures do. As they wait, he watches and listens carefully for any sounds of pursuit, and impresses upon Scragg to do the same.
Perception:
Kanir +8
Scragg +8 (scent)··
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Post by Rayl on Jan 14, 2017 2:09:52 GMT -7
Talon would check down the tunnel to be sure they weren't being pursued, then sigh as he leans against a wall. "Perhaps we should investigate Gilik's Cave, then. Whatever was past those things will have to wait. Strange, though, that the path was hidden via an illusion. Perhaps it was meant as a trap, to kill those who were over inquisitive? In any case, I can fix you up if you wish Kanir, both your wounds and your gear."
uJpldCUm+9 for a 25 perception
Sirru would nod at Talon's statement, mending his own spear to fix the burns up. "If it helps, I can make us small for a short time. It would help us follow the strange goblin. Perhaps we can rest and prepare ourselves to take on the rock-snakes at a later date. Or we could return to the Troll." While talking, he would also be keeping a wary eye out, as it is never truly safe in the Underdark.
+7 for a 15 perception
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Geckilian
Leadership Council
Empires Mierely require time.
Posts: 1,026
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Post by Geckilian on Jan 14, 2017 7:50:30 GMT -7
After Kanir puts the fire out, Talon's offer of aid seems fairly inviting as mild burns sporadically cover him and the hit to his side still painfully smoulders. Whilst Kanir, Talon and Sirru take a moment to catch their breath, the quiet is almost unsettling after the previous surge of adrenaline. There appears to be no sounds of pursuit, and Talon feels no vibrations whilst leaning on the wall. It takes a few moments for Talon to notice something isn't quite right - there is a flicker of movement coming from the broken open chest embedded in the wall.
As Talon notices, the movement is revealed to be a thin wisp of dark, black smoke that coils and moves almost as it alive. Like a tiny serpent it slinks its way upwards through the air, apparently paying no notice or awareness to the three standing nearby. All three of the group can see where it appears to be headed - a small fissure in the ceiling that heads upwards. It's not moving particularly fast as it appears to have the motive power of smoke rising normally, albeit with a form of purpose behind the movement.
((Kanir has taken a further 5 points of damage whilst on fire - 2 from the retreat and 3 before rolling and putting it out.))
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Post by spacemanspoof on Jan 14, 2017 9:04:18 GMT -7
Finally feeling the full pain from his burns, Kanir takes a moment to examine his condition. His skin is severely burned and blistered in several places, and deformed links of mithral show through the charred holes of his overshirt. His staff, though hardened with magic, still shows scorch marks where it came in contact with the worms. He gladly accepts Talon's offer of healing and mending. ((Total damage taken was 13 HP))
"Yes, I think we've sufficiently explored that passage for now," he says after being patched up. "I'm sure Zartak will be quite interested in those creatures. Perhaps he knows someone who might have an idea of what they are. But for now, let's go see what Gilik has to show us."
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Post by Rayl on Jan 14, 2017 21:13:13 GMT -7
Talon would lay his hand on Kanir's shoulder and say a small prayer under his breath in Necril, casting a cure moderate wounds. He would then take the time that they spend talking to use mending on as much of his equipment as he can. "Perhaps we should write another note? Also, what is that thing?" Talon says, pointing out the wisp of smokey darkness.
((Average of +12HP from Cure Moderate, take 10 on a Kn Religion/Arcana/Planes for a 21/21/17 on the wisp))
Sirru, noticing the crack the wisp is heading for, would move over and peak up it, trying to see if anything of import may be up there. During which he would mention "Never mind about the small thing. I can do larger, though. With that, it may be more prudent to return to Zartak for now. We could also resupply and even get a bit extra for Gillik."
((Take 10 on perception for a 17 on the inside of the crack.))
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Post by spacemanspoof on Jan 15, 2017 9:59:19 GMT -7
Kanir thanks Talon as his burns fade away and his gear is repaired. After Talon points out the wisp, Kanir takes a look at it as well, conferring with him to determine what it is and whether it might be related to the strange mists.
((Aid Another, take 10 for 20 Arcana, 17 Planes))
He also pulls out his map and compares it with their location and the rift in the ceiling, attempting to determine where it might be headed.
zIGzm2ho (+7 Dungeoneering, +5 Geography, + whatever circumstance bonus might be granted by the map)
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Geckilian
Leadership Council
Empires Mierely require time.
Posts: 1,026
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Post by Geckilian on Jan 15, 2017 11:50:46 GMT -7
The wisp of smoky darkness continued to waft upwards as Talon and Kanir pondered it. It seemed reminiscent of a denizen of the plane of shadow to the pair, though Talon knew it seemed to have a slight nimbus around it that suggested a form of shade or wraith. Whatever it was, it was highly likely to be undead and quite likely to be extraplanar. Regardless, though small it certainly does seem to match the description of the black mists aside from the lack of consuming anyone.
Sirru, checking the thing's route, simply sees no further than maybe a foot into the ceiling, such is the cracked and twisting nature of the small rent it goes to traverse. Kanir has slightly better luck consulting the map. Though there's nothing noted as specifically above where they would be, nearby does happen to be a small notation on the map representing a small trading outpost. Not a settlement per se, but rather an area those travelling within Salisara often go to trade. No more than a handful of people would reside there at any time, though the area would be considered well known. Directly it would be no more than a few minutes away, though for someone of medium size it would require a fair amount of backtracking and following different tunnel branches to get there.
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Post by spacemanspoof on Jan 15, 2017 13:13:53 GMT -7
"Here, take a look at this," Kanir says, pointing at the map. "I think this outpost should be our next stop. If this thing intends to attack it, we ought to be there to stop it... or at least see it in action. At the least, it may be a good place to rest and pick up some extra food for Gilik."
"However, it seems the most direct route might be too small for us to get through." He turns to Sirru. "Sirru, didn't you say something about shrinking us?"
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Post by Rayl on Jan 15, 2017 15:49:45 GMT -7
Sirru would shake his head. "I apologize, the common tongue is still somewhat..new to me. I can make us bigger, not smaller, which would not help in this scenario. Thusly, I suggest we make our way using the larger tunnels over-head." He goes on to mutter things about "Wierd surface dwellers and their strange language." in elven.
Talon would sigh. "The long way it is, then. Perhaps if we give an offer of future food Gillik would follow us? He would still be rather useful." With this, Talon would replace his quarterstaff on his back, draw his dagger, and cast light on it once more. "In any case, I do not wish to stay here. Those strange rock serpents may try to track us down."
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Post by spacemanspoof on Jan 15, 2017 22:00:56 GMT -7
"Agreed. Let us make haste then. Hopefully something will be left of the outpost when we arrive." Kanir stows his gear and prepares to travel once more.
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Geckilian
Leadership Council
Empires Mierely require time.
Posts: 1,026
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Post by Geckilian on Jan 16, 2017 17:46:14 GMT -7
Backtracking quickly to the previous cavern, the trio clearly see Gillik still sitting and carving. Having made no effort to hide since he had a good guess at who was returning, he looks up at them, pausing his work. "You not gone long. Gillik heard echoes, find what you wanted?" he asks. "Gillik still guide for food if needed." In his hands the little scrap of bone seems to be taking on a vague approximation of Kanir, a study humanoid holding a long stick. It's barely three inches tall and even early on looks like it'll shape up nicely.
If offered food and told of where the group wants to go, Gillik would be happy to come along and would also offer to lead them to the trading post. "Gillik knows shortcuts," he says, "that big people squeeze through. Gillik know quicker ways." He won't particularly move very fast but each movement, while palsied, is surefooted and confident. He's clearly well used to navigating the depths and even in his emaciated state avoids uneven rock, pitfalls and the occasional crevice without even seeming to notice. "Gillik like friendly people. Most not friendly." he says as he leads on, the quiet punctuated by sporadic bits of conversation. It seems like after such a long time generally alone, Gillik is only too happy to chat to a receptive audience.
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Post by spacemanspoof on Jan 17, 2017 6:33:23 GMT -7
"Thank you, Gilik," says Kanir. "We would be glad for you to accompany us. There ought to be plenty of food where we're going." As they travel, Kanir recounts their encounter with the strange chest and the rock-worms, and asks Gilik if he knows anything about them.
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Post by Rayl on Jan 18, 2017 17:53:06 GMT -7
Talon would also mention the sliver of shadow they spotted, asking Gillik of it, and whether or not it could be part of the Black Mist. To be able to squeeze and still have light, he uses light on his dagger, lifts up his mask somewhat, then puts the handle into the hole in his mouth and bites down to hold it in place.
Sirru, being the totally lithe elf he isn't, feels more comfortable with the squeeze than his companions. Any ducking parts is still a problem, but overall he would be getting stuck less. When he could, he would be peering both past his allies and behind him, making sure that nothing is sneaking up on them in either direction.
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