PrP: Breeding Grounds

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The fishing village in question is a relatively small place, roughly a day's walk or a little over half a day's ride up the southern coast of Alexandros. Coastal land, even in winter, is sweeping and beautiful, with plains of tall grasses and farms and little creeklets running here and there, and the weather holds long enough for it to be a sunny if chilly walk.

When you arrive, it smells of fish and bread, although more of bread than fish, unusual for a fishing village, and its people are, one and all, only too happy to point you in the direction of the dock where the nest had been identified ? namely, one of only three in the village. It's the smallest of the three, and has been well cleared of people and cargo ? looks like from some days now, judging by the lack of smell.

(Free RP.)

Kroth looks around the dock for a moment, then peers down into the water. "So there is something here disrupting your fishing?"

Cool and frosty-- the faint sheen of ice-slick continue to form on the metal surface of Thanix as he pauses, taking a moment to gaze off at the ocean. It... is curious to him. "I have not seen such watery expanses before," he states matter-of-factly. "Though my memory records are not complete. Do they all resemble this?"

Taro lopes along with the others until they near the village. Once there he accelerates and peels off slightly. His last few steps are practically running, and he finally stops at the top of a small rise where he can peer over the waters.

"We'll get this sorted quickly," Silmeria assures the villagers, offering a reassuring smile as she checks the action on her pistol. "Don't you worry. ...Oh, and afterwards, I'll see if I've any messages to deliver, if that's all right?" The Vardaman, painting a rather atypical picture of a member of her faith, all pleasantry and kindness... but by the look of her equipment, still quite skilled in the warrior's trade. "You'll be certain to keep everyone back until we're done, yes?"

One of the older fishermen has followed the group as they move to survey the docks themselves, a weathered man with salt and pepper hair and beard, and he now turns to look at Kroth. "Aye. Reefclaws. We see them now and again, but usually only one or two at a time. They took out an entire rig about a week gone past, never saw the crew since. Nasty critters they are, although I once heard tell of a fisherman with the stones to catch and eat one. Young Storen said he swears he saw one swim out from under this here dock."

"Hm? What's that? Oh, you're Vardamen?" His expression softens, and he actually smiles. "If you'd do that for us, I'm sure we'd all be grateful. Yes, we'll keep everyone clear, not that they don't already know that."

<OOC> Aldean says, "Anyone have knowledge/nature?"

Taro takes his axe off of his shoulder. "Reefclaws," he nods. "They sound delicious." He moves over to the edge of the water now and stucks the butt of his axe in to test the ground underneath.

GAME: Thanix rolls knowledge/nature: (13)+2: 15
GAME: Taro rolls knowledge/nature: (13)+5: 18

Kroth grunts, still looking down into the water. "I cannot breath underwater, has anyone planned for that? Or do these creatures live in a cave or something like that?"

‘’You paged (Thanix, Taro) with 'Reefclaws are native to the water but they will come up on land if they're hunting.’’’

Thanix gazes at the swirling waters a few seconds longer, finally turning his gaze down to the problem at hand. "Option for drawing the beasts," he states, considering. "We could use an animal or carcass or other bait to lure them close, then destroy them as they rise to the gambit. Reefclaws are known to come onto land to hunt, should they detect an easily accessible food source."

<OOC> Aldean says, "Also, Perception, everyone please."
GAME: Thanix rolls Perception: (18)+1: 19
GAME: Taro rolls perception: (19)+8: 27
GAME: Kroth rolls perception: (11)+7: 18

Taro chuckles good-naturedly. "That is a good plan," he agrees. He stirs the end of his axe now a bit. "We can bait a trap for them, just like any other animal." Then he straightens up and turns towards the fisherman. "Old one. Do YOU have anything suitable we can use for bait...?"

GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+1: (16)+1: 17
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+1: (18)+1: 19
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+1: (14)+1: 15
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+1: (12)+1: 13
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+1: (1)+1: 2 (EPIC FAIL)

"Hm? What's that?" The fisherman strokes his beard, worriedly. "I've never seen them go after something already dead. It'd have to be living ... can't say as I know too much about them." As the old man considers the idea, all of you spot dark shapes, long and slithery, in the water near the dock. There's at least three of them.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-  ATTENTION  -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
       Aldean has dropped a TIMESTOP!
       Please +init, then cease all roleplay and actions immediately and wait for Aldean to instruct you further.
       For additional in-combat commands, please type: +thelp.
-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-
GAME: Kroth rolls initiative: Roll: 10 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 12
GAME: Thanix rolls initiative: Roll: 18 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 19
GAME: You roll initiative for Reefclaw A: Roll: 3 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 8
GAME: You roll initiative for Reefclaw B: Roll: 17 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 22
GAME: You roll initiative for Reefclaw C: Roll: 14 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 19
GAME: You roll initiative for Reefclaw D: Roll: 15 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 20
GAME: You roll initiative for Reefclaw E: Roll: 3 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 8

Kroth turns, frowning at the shapes, he tends to frown a lot. "Well, it looks like perhaps we are the bait. Someone want to cut their arm and drip some blood into the water? Might make them jump up here to fight us, I'd rather not try to fight in the water."

GAME: Taro rolls initiative: Roll: 7 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 9
GAME: Silmeria rolls perception+5: (12)+14+5: 31
GAME: Silmeria rolls initiative: Roll: 17 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 22
===================== Current Initiative Order - Round 1 =====================
---Init--Name----------------Notes--------------------------------------------
    22   Silmeria            Flat-footed (0 rnds active)                  
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    22   Reefclaw B          
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    20   Reefclaw D          
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    19   Thanix              Flat-footed (0 rnds active)                  
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    19   Reefclaw C          
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    12   Kroth               Flat-footed (0 rnds active)                  
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    9    Taro                Flat-footed (0 rnds active)                  
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    8    Reefclaw E          
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    8    Reefclaw A          
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 ==============================================================================
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|   Name   |   Race   |   Class   |E Lev| CHP | HP  | AC |CMD |For |Ref |Wil |
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|Kroth     |ORC       |Ftr/Mnk    |  3  | 26  | 26  | 18 | 21 | 7  | 5  | 8  |
|Silmeria  |HUMAN     |Inq        |  4  | 24  | 24  | 20 | 17 | 5  | 4  | 6  |
|Taro      |ORC       |Bbn/Rgr    |  3  | 30  | 33  | 16 | 19 | 8  | 5  | 4  |
|Thanix    |WAR_GOLEM |Ftr        |  2  | 24  | 24  | 18 | 17 | 7  | 1  | 0  |
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GAME: You damaged Thanix for -50 points. 24 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Silmeria for -50 points. 24 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Kroth for -50 points. 26 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Taro for -50 points. 33 remaining.
<OOC> Aldean says, "There. OK."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 22.
     It is now Silmeria's turn! Reefclaw B is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Silmeria ended.
<OOC> Aldean says, "SIlmeria. You now have the picture of what is up. Action please."
<OOC> Silmeria says, "How far away is the water?"
<OOC> Aldean says, "You're standing on the dock. It's around you."
<OOC> Silmeria nawd.
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Open fire on the first one I find, then."
GAME: You roll initiative for Fisherman: Roll: 6 + Bonus: 0 = Total: 6
<OOC> Aldean says, "OK. They're still underwater, which means they have total cover from you."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Do you still want to do that?"
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Ah-hm. 90 miss chance?"
<OOC> Aldean says, "Cannot make an attack at all. You'll hit the water and bounce off."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Water does weird crap to ranged attacks."
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Gotchya. Chivvy the bystanders away, then."
<OOC> Aldean nods. Pose it.
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 22.
     It is now Reefclaw B's turn! Reefclaw D is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (2): 2
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (1): 1
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (10)+2: 12
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (4)+2: 6

"...And that's for us," Silmeria says, placing a hand each on fisherman and elder. "Time you got back to the village and kept the curiosity-seekers away, my friends. Hurry, hurry, we'll send word when the deed's done, all right?" Gently but firmly, she starts to guide the villagers away.

GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 20.
     It is now Reefclaw D's turn! Thanix is next!

As Silmeria turns her back to the group, and begins chivvying the fishermen and elders away as they'd gathered to watch, a wall of seaweed and salt water washes up on the dock and over the group as two of the /things/ that had been swimming around underwater abruptly jump to the dock, scrambling over the boards and lunging at Kroth and Silmeria. Now that you can see them clearly, they're about the size of a halfling, closely resembling a lobster in the front and an eel in the back with long, evil-looking blood-red spines running down their back. Both miss, one badly, but there appear to be more...

GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 19.
     It is now Thanix's turn! Reefclaw C is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Thanix ended.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Thanix."
<OOC> Thanix says, "Advance to meet the 'claws. Draw blade. Distance to those on the dock?"
<OOC> Aldean says, "You're on the dock at the moment, and they're pretty much right in your faces. You can take a 5' step to meet them."
<OOC> Thanix intercepts the one trying for Silmeria. SUPREME CLEAVAGE.
GAME: Thanix rolls 1d20+6: (4)+6: 10
<OOC> Aldean says, "That's a miss, Thanix."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Pose."
<OOC> Thanix nods!
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 19.
     It is now Reefclaw C's turn! Kroth is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d5: (3): 3
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (10)+2: 12
<OOC> Aldean says, "That's a miss, Taro."

"Alert," comes the resounding intone from Thanix metallic lungs. The greatsword unsnaps from his back with a serried click of clamps releasing. The heavy stride of metal hammers the dock relentlessly. Moving between the Inquisitor and the first of the reefclaws, the metallic warrior swings viciously, slashing the air just before the beast. "We are under attack."

Another, much smaller wash of seaweed and water soils the boots of the group as the fishermen and villagers start screaming and backing away. A third emerges, claw snapping at the oruch barbarian, but to no avail. Getting up on that dock isn't that easy.

GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 12.
     It is now Kroth's turn! Taro is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Kroth ended.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Kroth."
<OOC> Kroth says, "I shall power flurry"
<OOC> Aldean says, "You are currently threatened by D and B both. Which?"
<OOC> Kroth says, "Can I 5 foot to flank or not?"
<OOC> Aldean thinks. Nods. I'll let you do that.
<OOC> Kroth says, "Ok, whichever one I can flank I'll go on that one"
<OOC> Aldean says, "Which one are you going for?"
<OOC> Aldean says, "D."
<OOC> Kroth says, "Then D it is."
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1+2-2-1: (6)+5+1+1+2+-2+-1: 12
<OOC> Aldean says, "ROll."
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1+2-2-1: (9)+5+1+1+2+-2+-1: 15
<OOC> Aldean says, "Second one hits."
GAME: Kroth rolls 1d6+3+2: (6)+3+2: 11
<OOC> Aldean says, "You damage it. A lot. It doesn't look happy but it's living. Pose."

The oruch quickly reacts, having already been alerted to the creatures approach. He steps aside, moving to get one between him and an ally then starts throwing a series of punches and kicks, managing to do a bit of damage to one of them.

GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 9.
     It is now Taro's turn! Reefclaw E is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Taro ended.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Taro."
<OOC> Taro says, "Sorry will be few min"
<OOC> Aldean says, "OK. Gonna skip you for the moment and we'll deal with you when you get back."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 8.
     It is now Reefclaw E's turn! Reefclaw A is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d5: (3): 3
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d5: (5): 5
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (17)+2: 19
<OOC> Aldean says, "That will hit."
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (4): 4
GAME: You damaged Taro for 4 points. 29 remaining.
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (14)+8: 22
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (20)+8: 28
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (2): 2
GAME: You damaged Taro for 2 points. 27 remaining.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Taro has been grabbed by one and is now being squeezed as well as hit with  one of those ugly-looking claws."
<OOC> Aldean says, "The other one..."
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (12)+2: 14
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (17)+8: 25
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (4): 4
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (1): 1
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+1: (18)+1: 19
<OOC> Aldean says, "Grabs and is squeezing the fisherman, who didn't move in time."
<OOC> Aldean poses.
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 8.
     It is now Reefclaw A's turn! Fisherman is next!
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round One - Init 6.
     It is now Fisherman's turn! Silmeria is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+0: (13)+0: 13

And there are the last two. A second grabs Taro with those wicked-=looking claws and begins to squeeze painfully, clearly trying to choke the life out of the oruch. The other ... well, the fisherman, frozen by the abrupt appearance of ugly things on his dock, didn't move fast enough! The last one grabs the hapless man with a claw, blood sprouting from a wound made by vicious-looking claws across his arm. He manages to wriggle himself free, eyes round as saucers, and finally turns to run, clutching at the torn flesh.

GAME: NEW ROUND!
     Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 22.
     It is now Silmeria's turn! Reefclaw B is next!
GAME: 'fisherman' removed from initiative list.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Silmeria."
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Judgment of Destruction, shoot the one who'd grabbed the fisherman. Gotta get its attention."
<OOC> Aldean says, "That's A."
<OOC> Silmeria nodnod.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Roll it."
GAME: Silmeria rolls ranged+1: (2)+6+1: 9
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Dammit."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Go ahead and pose. (I know the feeling. TRUST ME)"
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 22.
     It is now Reefclaw B's turn! Reefclaw D is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (18)+2: 20
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (3): 3
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (15)+8: 23
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (1): 1
<OOC> Taro says, "Sorry about that. :( Back now"
GAME: You damaged Silmeria for 4 points. 20 remaining.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Silmeria, can I have a Fort save please. Taro, welcome back, you're currently grappled by one of these things and it's squeezing you."
<OOC> Taro nods ok

As the fisherman wrenches himself free, Silmeria's eyes widen. "You!" she cries, voice rolling across the dock like a peal from an iron bell, "you will face me, creature!" Leveling her pistol at the reefclaw, she fires... only for the bullet to shriek wide to the left. "...Well... nuts."

<OOC> Aldean says, "Lemme sort these and I will come nac to you, Taro."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Silmeria, could you give me a Fort save please?"
GAME: Silmeria rolls fortitude: (20)+5: 25 (CRITICAL SUCCESS)
<OOC> Aldean says, "Sweet. No issues."
<OOC> Silmeria XD
<OOC> Aldean says, "Although I'm sure you would rather have had those rolls reversed."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 20.
     It is now Reefclaw D's turn! Thanix is next!
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Just a little, yeah. XD"
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (9)+2: 11
<OOC> Aldean says, "Miss on Thanix."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 19.
     It is now Thanix's turn! Reefclaw C is next!
<OOC> Thanix says, "Gearing up assault on mine-- power attack."
GAME: Thanix rolls 1d20+5: (17)+5: 22
<OOC> Aldean says, "Hangf on. Thanix, do you mind if I fit Taro in here, and move his initiative?"
<OOC> Thanix says, "Feel free!"
<OOC> Aldean augh lag L( Never mind
<OOC> Aldean says, "OK. Sorry, I'm lagging some"
GAME: Thanix rolls 2d6+9: (5)+9: 14
GAME: Taro's initiative total changed to 18.
<OOC> Aldean says, "OK. I'll put Taro after Thanix and treat as delayed action."
<OOC> Thanix nods.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Yep, that hits, and you killed D....but."
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (19)+2: 21
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (18)+2: 20
<OOC> Thanix says, "But. :|"
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (4): 4
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (3): 3
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (8)+8: 16
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (12)+8: 20
<OOC> Aldean says, "Thanix, roll me a Fort save."
GAME: Thanix rolls Fortitude: (14)+7: 21
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (4): 4
<OOC> Aldean says, "No effect, but here's what happens."
GAME: You damaged Thanix for 11 points. 13 remaining.
<OOC> Thanix :|
<OOC> Aldean says, "You kill it -- darn near split it in half -- and it /spasms/. Horrifically, thrashing wildly. Both claws connect, and the tail grabs you, squeezing hard before falling into death."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Pose it."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 19.
     It is now Reefclaw C's turn! Taro is next!
<OOC> Aldean okays, I wants to put the Reefclaw first.
<OOC> Taro will rage, use claws and full attack the one grappling me.
<OOC> Aldean says, "OK. Rage but you have to break or reverse the grapple first."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Roll 1d20+ your CMB. This is a standard action."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Go ahead and +rage."
<OOC> Taro thought you could attack while being grappled? Or am I 'pinned' or whatever?
GAME: Taro RAGES!, gaining: +4 Str, +6 Con, +2 Will and -2 AC

The Warforged's first slice cuts merely the air; the follow up curve up and over and *down*--- a cleaving blow that nearly splits the oceanic creature in twain! Death spasms wrack the beast, the one half of the beast trying to communicate with the other. The restul is a last gasp, but potently so; metal shrieks as it rends, and Thanix reels back a step as one of the monster's claws dig through and beneath metal plating. Steam jets into the air with an unearthly wail, gushing from torn cables around the brutal wound.

"Caution," Thanix warns, "Death spasms noted. Beware."

GAME: Taro rolls cmb: (12)+9: 21
<OOC> Aldean says, "Goo. You break the grapple. and are free to act, but you have a move action left."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Hang on a sec. You can attack with a light or one-handed weapon, would you rather do that? Looking...I don't believe you can make a full attack."
<OOC> Aldean says, "You can do any action that requires only one hand."
<OOC> Aldean says, "So Taro, I'll give you a choice. You can break the grapple, or you can make a single attack."
<OOC> Aldean says, "IF you attack, you are at -2."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Sorry for the distraction, I'm being howled at by a cat who is convinced that his dinnertime should be three hours early."
<OOC> Taro will break the grapple then.
<OOC> Aldean says, "OK. It's broken. Anything else you want to do?"
<OOC> Aldean says, "You have a move action still."
<OOC> Taro says, "Nope don't see anything else to do :)"
<OOC> Aldean says, "OK. Go ahead and pose. :)"
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 18.
     It is now Taro's turn! Kroth is next!
<OOC> Taro fistshakes at that reeflcaw, I'll get you next time!
<OOC> Aldean okays, C :)
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (12)+2: 14
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (7)+2: 9
<OOC> Aldean says, "And it's kind of hapless, Taro. You've got a second one flailing at you."
GAME: 'reefclaw d' removed from initiative list.
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 12.
     It is now Kroth's turn! Reefclaw E is next!
<OOC> Aldean says, "Kroth?"

Taro roars in pain as he's snatched up by the lobster-like claws, one around his shoulder and the other latching onto his forearm. The Oruch's eyes bulge and then the roar turns into something more than just pain. It turns into a maddened furious howling. Even he isn't sure how but somehow Taro twists one hand and grasps the claw, pulling it from his own arm before using the other to shove the reefclaw away.

<OOC> Kroth says, "Am I still flanking?"

Another reefclaw jabs at Taro's limbs as he frees himself from the grip of the first one, but it's kind of hapless and the barbarian can dodge it easily.

<OOC> Aldean says, "No, your target is now dead. You're still threatening B."
<OOC> Kroth says, "Ok, I'll power flurry B, with a Stunning fist as the first hit."
Taro has reconnected.
<OOC> Kroth says, "Swift Action Dragon Style."
<OOC> Aldean nods. Roll.
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1-2-1: (20)+5+1+1+-2+-1: 24 (THREAT)
<OOC> Kroth says, "confirm"
<OOC> Kroth says, "confirm"
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1-2-1: (5)+5+1+1+-2+-1: 9
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1-2-1: (5)+5+1+1+-2+-1: 9
<OOC> Kroth says, "I'm going to assume thats just 1 hit with the stunning fist :)"
<OOC> Kroth says, "DC 14 Fort or stunned"
GAME: Kroth rolls 1d6+3+1+2: (1)+3+1+2: 7
<OOC> Kroth says, "And 7 damage."
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (17)+2: 19
<OOC> Aldean says, "Yes, it's only a normal hit, and it saves, but you do damage it."
<OOC> Aldean says, "That was B?"
<OOC> Kroth says, "I think so"
<OOC> Aldean nods. I think so. Anything else?
<OOC> Kroth says, "Thats it"
<OOC> Aldean okies,. Pose it.

Kroth, the other oruch here, turns to face the other reefclaw fighting him. He shifts his feet, moving into a stance to improve his power and throws a carefully aimed blow at the creature, though its not enough to stun it. It does do some damage though, the creature taking the blow.

<OOC> Aldean says, "It is damaged."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 8.
     It is now Reefclaw E's turn! Reefclaw A is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (4)+2: 6
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (11)+2: 13
<OOC> Aldean snork. NO.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Not even with Rage penalty to AC."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 8.
     It is now Reefclaw A's turn! Silmeria is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2+2: (19)+2+2: 23
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (3): 3
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Ow. >.<"
<OOC> Aldean oh lord. Looks back. Wow. Kroth, you're trying to take the one grappling Silmeria off of her. That's my fault, shoulda spotted that.
<OOC> Aldean says, "But it's okay, works same way."
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (5)+8: 13
<OOC> Aldean says, "Silmeria, another Fort save please."
GAME: You damaged Silmeria for 2 points. 17 remaining.
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Poisoned, then?"
<OOC> Thanix recommends cybernetic upgrade. :|
<OOC> Aldean says, "There we go. No, actually you're okay."
<OOC> Aldean says, "It fails the grapple, 2, but B still has you."
GAME: NEW ROUND!
     Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 22.
     It is now Silmeria's turn! Reefclaw B is next!
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Rolling to break grapple, then. Whaddo I do?"

E, too, tries to go after Taro, but it's no better than C , the narrow confines of the dock leaving them to interfere with one another in their greed. A, meanwhile, turns and charges SIlmeria, slashing with a claw and opening a wicked-looking wound in her leg, but with B there, it can't find purchase and remains at her feet.

<OOC> Silmeria says, "CMB, or pure STR bonus?"
<OOC> Aldean says, "Roll your combat maneuver bonus."
<OOC> Silmeria nod.
GAME: Silmeria rolls cmb: (1)+4: 5 (EPIC FAIL)
<OOC> Aldean says, "FTR, you can also use Escape Artist."
<OOC> Silmeria faceplant.
<OOC> Aldean says, "No good."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Pose it. Any other actions?"
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Nothing.... really comes to mind, lacking a move action. XD"
<OOC> Aldean says, "...yeah. Pose it."
<OOC> Silmeria hadn't known I was grappled, either.
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 22.
     It is now Reefclaw B's turn! Thanix is next!
<OOC> Aldean nods. That was my fault, I rolled it abd didn't tell you. Missed it and had to go back through the backscroll to realize that. 
<OOC> Silmeria nodnod, s'cool.
<OOC> Aldean says, "That said..."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Reefclaw B isn't real thrilled with Kroth just at the moment."

Silmeria struggles against the reefclaw's grip, spines and claws digging into her side. Only when the second attacker rushes to get its taste of blood, does she cry out in pain, but she certainly is worried at the moment.

<OOC> Kroth says, "Its grappling someone, so kinda hard to hit me right? :P"
<OOC> Aldean says, "One sec!"
<OOC> Aldean says, "Srory got pulled AFK."
<OOC> Aldean says, "It releases the grapple and turns to go after Kroth."
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (13)+2: 15
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (5)+2: 7
<OOC> Aldean says, "Neither hit."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Silmeria, you are no longer grappled, but are threatened by A and B."
<OOC> Silmeria nodnod. Any allies happen to be adjacent to me?
<OOC> Aldean says, "No, B is between you and Kroth."

Kroth appears to have ruined B's day, adn it's not terribly happy. It releases Silmeria, turning on Kroth, but barbed claws find only sea air.

GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 19.
     It is now Thanix's turn! Reefclaw C is next!
<OOC> Aldean says, "Thanix."
<OOC> Thanix says, "Can I move to flank or attack B?"
<OOC> Aldean says, "B is already flanked but you're not flanking it. Consider helping out Taro, who has E and C on him."
<OOC> Thanix does so-- "Charge C."
<OOC> Aldean thinks. I wish I'd used the map for this.
<OOC> Thanix says, "With Power Attack---"
<OOC> Aldean says, "But go ahead."
GAME: Thanix rolls 1d20+6+2: (17)+6+2: 25
GAME: Thanix rolls 2d6+9: (7)+9: 16
<OOC> Thanix says, "The attack roll should be a total of 24-- -1 for PA."
<OOC> Aldean says, "you hit it. Hard. Very hard. It slows down and staggers, but is still fighting."
<OOC> Thanix nods!
<OOC> Aldean says, "Pose it."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 19.
     It is now Reefclaw C's turn! Taro is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (20)+2: 22
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (10)+2: 12
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (3): 3
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (16)+8: 24
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (4): 4
GAME: You damaged Thanix for 7 points. 6 remaining.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Thanix, roll a fort save please."

Staggering, recovering his footing, Thanix wrenches the arm fully off the body of his first target. Torn limb hanging from him like some grotesque trophy, the warforged turns, finding his next target-- charing back into the melee with a methodical, steam-powered gusto. Faint white vapor still spilling from the claw-shorn rent, the greatsword swings up, down-- a tried-and-true tactic to cut a gore-gushing gash in the reefclaw's side.

GAME: Thanix rolls Fortitude: (18)+7: 25
<OOC> Aldean says, "And you are good."

Still bleeding badly from Thanix's strike, the reefclaw he's gotten the attention of slashes a claw at him, grabbing him and tearing metal with a hideous shriek and holding him fast.

<OOC> Aldean says, "You're grappled, though."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 18.
     It is now Taro's turn! Kroth is next!
<OOC> Aldean says, "Taro."
<OOC> Taro So C is still up?
<OOC> Aldean nods. it is in negatives but still fighting.
<OOC> Taro will claw C and D one each
<OOC> Aldean says, "D is daed, do you mean E?"
<OOC> Taro says, "Oops...sure. For some reason I thought there were 2 fighting me"
<OOC> Aldean says, "There are. C and E."
<OOC> Taro ahhs! I can't read :) yes C and E please. Sorry
GAME: Taro rolls 9: (18)+9: 27
GAME: Taro rolls 9: (8)+9: 17
<OOC> Aldean says, "Both hit. Damage."
GAME: Taro rolls 1d4+9: (3)+9: 12
GAME: Taro rolls 1d4+9: (1)+9: 10
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (13)+2: 15
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (15)+2: 17
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (4): 4
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (2): 2
GAME: You damaged Taro for 6 points. 30 remaining.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Taro, roll two fort saves"
GAME: Taro rolls fort: (19)+11: 30
GAME: Taro rolls fort: (20)+11: 31 (CRITICAL SUCCESS)
<OOC> Aldean says, "you are fine"
<OOC> Aldean says, "Death spasm, both claws hit."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Pose it."
GAME: 'reefclaw c' removed from initiative list.
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 12.
     It is now Kroth's turn! Reefclaw E is next!
<OOC> Aldean says, "Kroth. B is threatening you."
<OOC> Kroth says, "I'm flanking it now right?"
<OOC> Aldean says, "Yes"
<OOC> Kroth says, "Power Flurry with Stunning fist on first attack."
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1+2-2-1: (9)+5+1+1+2+-2+-1: 15
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1+2-2-1: (7)+5+1+1+2+-2+-1: 13
<OOC> Aldean says, "First hits, second misses."
<OOC> Kroth says, "DC 14 fort save or stunned"
GAME: Kroth rolls 1d6+3+1+2: (4)+3+1+2: 10
<OOC> Kroth says, "And 10 damage"
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (12)+2: 14
<OOC> Aldean says, "It staggers and is bleeding badly, but isn't stunned. Now in minus and still fighting."

Kroth continues to wail away at the creatures, his brass knuckles cracking shells and finally doing some significant damage, of course he has simply been lucky to not be hit himself.

GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 8.
     It is now Reefclaw E's turn! Reefclaw A is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (5)+2: 7
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (18)+2: 20

|   Name   |   Race   |   Class   |E Lev| CHP | HP  | AC |CMD |For |Ref |Wil |
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|Kroth     |ORC       |Ftr/Mnk    |  3  | 26  | 26  | 18 | 21 | 7  | 5  | 8  |
|Silmeria  |HUMAN     |Inq        |  4  | 17  | 24  | 20 | 17 | 5  | 4  | 6  |
|Taro      |ORC       |Bbn/Rgr    |  3  | 30  | 42  | 14 | 21 | 11 | 5  | 6  |
|Thanix    |WAR_GOLEM |Ftr        |  2  |  6  | 24  | 18 | 17 | 7  | 1  | 0  |
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (2): 2
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (1)+8: 9 (EPIC FAIL)
<OOC> Aldean says, "Taro, Fort save again please."
GAME: You damaged Taro for 2 points. 28 remaining.
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 8.
     It is now Reefclaw A's turn! Silmeria is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (4)+2: 6
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (3)+2: 5
<OOC> Aldean waits for Taro's pose.

Taro has stopped howling, although he snarls with every panting breath. His axe lies forgotten at his feet. Instead he lashes out with both hands. The long, sharpened nails at each finger tip carve into the Reefclaws on either side of him. The one previously injured by Thanix collapses into spasms. which draw another snarl from the Oruch.

GAME: Taro rolls fort: (12)+11: 23
<OOC> Aldean says, "Still okay."
GAME: NEW ROUND!
     Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Four - Init 22.
     It is now Silmeria's turn! Reefclaw B is next!
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Will a 5-foot step carry me out of threat range without provoking?"

The one may have collapsed into spasms that tear into Taro's flesh, but he still has a friend, and its claws lash out at him. One misses entirely, the other catches an edge of his leg, tearing a shallow gash in it ut not a good enough hit to gain any purchase. The one attacking the Inquisitor is a good deal less competent -- or lucky, as it flails ineffectually at Silmeria.

<OOC> Aldean says, "Yes, thoug it'll separate you more and take you further toward land."
<OOC> Aldean says, "You have to pull back from both A and B."
<OOC> Silmeria nods, that's fine. 5-foot step, then another 10 feet, then cast Flames of the Faithful
<OOC> Aldean says, "Cannot take a 5' step in the same round as any other movement."
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Damn."
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Take that bit out then. :3"
<OOC> Aldean says, "OK. Flames of the Faithful does what?"
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Drops the Flaming Burst property on the khopesh I'm drawing on the move."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Excellent. That will work. Cast and pose."
GAME: Silmeria casts Flames of the Faithful. Caster Level: 4 DC: 14
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Four rounds' worth."
GAME: Note Flames of the Faithful - Flaming Burst added to Silmeria with a duration of 4 rounds.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Pose it."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Four - Init 22.
     It is now Reefclaw B's turn! Thanix is next!
<OOC> Aldean says, "IT can only attack or move, not both, so it goes after Kroth."
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (10)+2: 12
<OOC> Aldean says, "And misses."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Four - Init 19.
     It is now Thanix's turn! Taro is next!
 ===================== Current Initiative Order - Round 4 =====================
---Init--Name----------------Notes--------------------------------------------
    22   Silmeria            Flames of the Faithful - Flaming Burst (4    
                             rnds remaining)                              
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    22   Reefclaw B          
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 >> 19   Thanix               <<
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    18   Taro                Raging (3 rnds active)                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    12   Kroth               
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    8    Reefclaw E          
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    8    Reefclaw A          
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 ==============================================================================
<OOC> Aldean says, "Thanix."
<OOC> Thanix says, "PA on B."
<OOC> Aldean says, "OK. Single attack as you need to move."
<OOC> Aldean says, "ROll."
<OOC> Thanix says, "Isn't it the one I charge earlier? Only have one attack anyway."
<OOC> Aldean says, "No, that was C"
<OOC> Aldean says, "Which is now dead."
<OOC> Thanix says, "AH. Charge B then!"
<OOC> Aldean nods.
GAME: Thanix rolls 1d20+5+2: (6)+5+2: 13
<OOC> Aldean says, "Miss."
<OOC> Thanix nods!

Having been released, a bloodied and grim-looking Silmeria takes a delicate hop backward, stowing her gun and drawing a glittering, hook-bladed sword. Resting her fingertips on the blade, she glares toward the remaining creatures. "Run and live," she says, fingers limning in gray fire, "fight and die, creatures." Drawing in a breath, she lets it out in a quiet sigh over the sword... which bursts into flame, its tip bearing the scales of Vardama quite clearly. "Little time remains to choose... I'd hurry, I was you."

The reefclaw threatening Kroth waves a claw at him, but crippled as it is, it finds no purchase, slipping on a sea-weed drenched dock.

<OOC> Aldean says, "Pose."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Four - Init 18.
     It is now Taro's turn! Kroth is next!
<OOC> Taro will attack E twice

Unlike the Vardaman Inquisitor, Thanix is not so noble as to allow such a choice. Only the scrape of iron as his stride increases; only the jet of steam from newly severed pipes. Myometic muscles squeeze and clench and grip, and a vicious upward arc cuts from the ground towards the sky, steam pressure weakening as the warforged's aim suffers from his damage.

<OOC> Aldean says, "Taro. You have E as a friend still, which is still up. OK."
GAME: Taro rolls 9: (15)+9: 24
GAME: Taro rolls 9: (14)+9: 23
<OOC> Aldean says, "Both hit."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Damage."
GAME: Taro rolls 1d4+9: (3)+9: 12
GAME: Taro rolls 1d4+9: (4)+9: 13
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (19)+2: 21
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (13)+2: 15
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (2): 2
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (2): 2
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+8: (15)+8: 23
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (4): 4
GAME: You damaged Taro for 8 points. 20 remaining.
<OOC> Aldean says, "Death spasms -- you pretty much tear it apart, but it spasms and both claws tear at you, tail hits you hard and constricts for a moment before it goes limp. Pose it."
GAME: 'reefclaw e' removed from initiative list.
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Four - Init 12.
     It is now Kroth's turn! Reefclaw A is next!
<OOC> Aldean says, "Kroth. You have B which is in serious trouble."
<OOC> Kroth says, "Power flurry!"
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1-2-1: (20)+5+1+1+-2+-1: 24 (THREAT)
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1-2-1: (3)+5+1+1+-2+-1: 7
GAME: Kroth rolls melee+1+1-2-1: (14)+5+1+1+-2+-1: 18
<OOC> Kroth says, "The second would be the confirm, and a fail"
GAME: Kroth rolls 1d6+3+1+2: (6)+3+1+2: 12
GAME: Kroth rolls 1d6+3+2: (2)+3+2: 7
<OOC> Kroth says, "And if they both hit, 19 damage"
<OOC> Aldean says, "Both hit ..."
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20: (19): 19
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20: (13): 13
<OOC> Aldean says, "Oop, ignore"
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (9)+2: 11
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (8)+2: 10
<OOC> Aldean says, "You kill it and, warned, dive ut of the way as it starts to spasm."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Pose it."
GAME: 'reefclaw B' removed from initiative list.
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Four - Init 8.
     It is now Reefclaw A's turn! Silmeria is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (3)+2: 5

Kroth finally seems to catch this creature at the right moments, slamming his brass knuckles into shell and crushing it with his blows, exposing the meaty insides of the lobster thingy. Of course it tries to grab him with its death spasms, but he nimbly avoids the claws.

Taro is hit by the Reefclaw still fighting him. The blow is minor compared to those struck earlier, but Taro draws back out of instinct. An instant later he rushes forward again, both clawed hands swinging wildly. He slashes long furrows into the monster but then has to endure the pain of its death spasms. By now Taro's covered in as much blood as some of the creatures he's slain.

Most are downed or dead, but one remains, and it steps up to Silmeria, waving a claw threatening at her. That was supposed to be an attack.

GAME: NEW ROUND!
     Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Five - Init 22.
     It is now Silmeria's turn! Thanix is next!
<OOC> Silmeria says, "Answer the threat. :D"
GAME: Silmeria rolls melee+1: (13)+4+1: 18
<OOC> Aldean says, "Kick its butt."
<OOC> Aldean says, "You hit. Damage."
GAME: Silmeria rolls 1d6+2+1d6: (6)+2+(5): 13
<OOC> Aldean says, "Owww. IT's now staggered but is now fighting."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Pose it."
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Five - Init 19.
     It is now Thanix's turn! Taro is next!
<OOC> Thanix says, "Final creature. Step, slice, victory pose."
<OOC> Thanix says, "No PA."
<OOC> Aldean says, "Roll."
GAME: Thanix rolls 1d20+6: (15)+6: 21
<OOC> Aldean says, "Damage."
GAME: Thanix rolls 2d6+6: (6)+6: 12
Huh?  (Type "help" for help.)
<OOC> Aldean says, "IT's still fighting."
<OOC> Thanix nods!
<OOC> Aldean says, "But it's definitely hurt. BAD. Did someone decide to be a badass and fail?"
<OOC> Thanix thought the one blow would do it. "NEXT TIME."

The threateningly-waved claw is answered with a quick spin of her sword, as Silmeria dips in low to slash deeply into the creature's carapace, the magical flames hissing and spitting as a murky, fouled-crab stench drifts up from the wound. "Hush," she whispers to the creature. "You made your choice, it'll be over soon."

GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Five - Init 18.
     It is now Taro's turn! Kroth is next!
<OOC> Aldean says, "Taro."

Thanix twists, blade slick with the blood and goo of slaughtered lobster-eels. His blade joins the fiery brightness of Silmeria's as it rises and falls. Precision and focus, all practically applied-- he aims a brutal cut down on the creature's back, a slice threatening to tear muscle and limb fully free.

<OOC> Taro will charge!
<OOC> Aldean says, "RAAAR"
<OOC> Aldean says, "ROll it."
GAME: Taro rolls 11: (1)+11: 12 (EPIC FAIL)
<OOC> Taro facepalm
<OOC> Aldean ...pose it.
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Five - Init 12.
     It is now Kroth's turn! Reefclaw A is next!
GAME: Aldean advances the initiative order.
     Round Five - Init 8.
     It is now Reefclaw A's turn! Silmeria is next!
GAME: Aldean rolls 1d4: (3): 3
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 |   Name   |   Race   |   Class   |E Lev| CHP | HP  | AC |CMD |For |Ref |Wil |
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 |Silmeria  |HUMAN     |Inq        |  4  | 17  | 24  | 20 | 17 | 5  | 4  | 6  |
 |Taro      |ORC       |Bbn/Rgr    |  3  | 20  | 42  | 14 | 21 | 11 | 5  | 6  |
 |Thanix    |WAR_GOLEM |Ftr        |  2  |  6  | 24  | 18 | 17 | 7  | 1  | 0  |
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 GAME: Aldean rolls 1d3: (3): 3
 GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (15)+2: 17
 <OOC> Aldean says, "And its claw scrapes across Thanix's armor. It tries to drop back into the water. AoO's, all of you."
 GAME: Thanix rolls 1d20+6: (19)+6: 25
 GAME: Silmeria rolls melee+1: (4)+4+1: 9
 <OOC> Thanix says, "Threat."
 GAME: Thanix rolls 1d20+6: (13)+6: 19
 GAME: Taro rolls 1d20+9: (18)+9: 27
 <OOC> Aldean says, "Damage, Taro and Thanix."
 GAME: Thanix rolls 4d6+12: (12)+12: 24
 GAME: Taro rolls 1d4+9: (1)+9: 10
 GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (12)+2: 14
 GAME: Aldean rolls 1d20+2: (9)+2: 11
 <OOC> Aldean says, "And it goes into death spasms, but warned, both of you manage to jump bak in time."
 <OOC> Aldean says, "Thanix, Pose it. Free RP once he poses."

Thanix's chestplate scatters dull sparks as the creature's spasming claw skitters from the thick metal. One last time as the blade rises and falls; once again as the metal warrior unleashes precision butchery against his opponent.

The clawed monster quivers its last before it finally stops moving, and the Warforged holds his blade threateningly for a last few seconds. "Threat removed," he announces at last, voice a subtle wheezing, steamy sound. "Damage assessment beginning."

Taro rushes at the last remaining Reefclaw. After only a few steps his foot is caught on something - the remains of the one the creatures slain before. It nearly makes him stumble, buy he draws up just before slamming into the Reefclaw. When it tries to escape he slashes again, even though it was probably already finished. Then he manages to flinch back away from the by-now-expected death throes.

"Poor things," Silmeria sighs, the mark disappearing from her sword as she slips it back into her scabbard. "But they couldn't be allowed to go on..." Shaking her head, she hefts her messenger-bag -- now festooned with more scratches and tears than before -- and turns a bright smile on her fellow adventurers. "There's still the nest to take care of, but for now... shall we give them the good news?"

"Good news?" Thanix inquires as he spares a glance to the Inquisitor. Jets of stam slow to ragged pulses, finally squeezing off to an end. He reaches up to his chest, slowly wrenching one part of the reefclaw's claws from the underpinnings. "Reminder: the village elder was wounded in the attack. It would be wise to see to his health beofre spreading 'good news'."

Taro slowly regains his breath (and his composure). He gives Silmeria a disbelieving look at the 'poor things' comment, but doesn't say anything. Instead he goes to pick up his axe. Noticing a fallen Reefclaw nearby, he uses the long curved blade of the axe head like a butcher's blade to slice off one of the creature's arms. After peering at the messy limb he nods, suddendly satisfied. "There's enough for all here," he remarks.

Thanix's eyes flicker as a puff of steam jest free; he tears the second clawtip from his chassis, tossing it to the ground--- before the arm simply stops moving, sinking to hang loosely at his side.

"Minor pressure loss," he remarks nonchalantly, glancing at the drooping limb. "Repair will be required. Also, damage to external armor will require smithing activity to correct. Myomers still intact-- rerouting pressure to compensate."