D 001

[Corwin]

[17:35] <Tiny_Ko_Army> ---
[17:35] <Tiny_Ko_Army> OOC - For a lognote, Seira pointed out she forgot a +2 due to Magic Circle against evil. This puts her above the save DC, so I'm going to redo the last line. Rolled initiative stands as is.
[17:36] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Seira is stricken by the vile wraith, her flesh crawling as it sucks away vitality! She is able to hold against the worst of the horror, but her body still buckles from that touch! OOC - Wraith is up.
[17:36] <Tiny_Ko_Army> The wraith swarms Seira, hands reaching out to leech away all that is vital and precious to her!
[17:36] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+16
06[17:37] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+16 and gets 35."12 [1d20=19]
[17:37] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 2d6 and a fort save, Seira.
06[17:37] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 2d6 and a fort save, Seira. and gets 9."12 [2d6=6, 3]
01[17:37] <Seira> roll 1d20+11
06[17:37] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+11 and gets 21."12 [1d20=10]
[17:37] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d8
06[17:37] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d8 and gets 7."12 [1d8=7]
[17:40] <Tiny_Ko_Army> The touch turns Seira's face to living ash, only the faintest bit of color left! The horrid creature glows as it siphon's away Seira's vitality! "Warmth, give it to me! Give it back!" it howls into the dark! OOC - Seira.
[17:40] <Demedais> "...! A dread wraith?!" Demedais curses. "Seira, behind me! I should be able to stave it off!"
01[17:42] <Seira> Looking much like the living dead, Seira withdraws mutely.
[17:42] <Tiny_Ko_Army> OOC - Withdrawing to where, Seira? Back in the room? Up the stairs? Towards the pedestol?
01[17:42] <Seira> OOC: I am so going back
01[17:43] <Seira> OOC: Up the stairs, away from here, etc
[17:43] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Seira staggers back up the stairs, ashen faced and clinging to life! The archon clings to her clothing! OOC - Deme.
[17:47] <Demedais> "The warmth of the living should never and will never be yours! Begone!" Demedais howls, stepping toward the wraith lightly and using his size and strength, plus the shield at his side, to try and destroy the wraith before it can move any further!
[17:48] <Demedais> roll 1d20+17 (+1 Haste -1 Size +2 Helm of Prowess)
[17:48] <Demedais> roll 1d20+17 (+1 Haste -1 Size +2 Helm of Prowess)
[17:48] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 (+1 Haste -1 Size +6 Smite)
[17:48] <Demedais> roll 1d20+21 (+1 Haste -1 Size +6 Smite) shield hit
06[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+17 (+1 Haste -1 Size +2 Helm of Prowess) and gets 31."12 [1d20=14]
06[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+17 (+1 Haste -1 Size +2 Helm of Prowess) and gets 33."12 [1d20=16]
06[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 (+1 Haste -1 Size +6 Smite) and gets 25."12 [1d20=7]
06[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+21 (+1 Haste -1 Size +6 Smite) shield hit and gets 35."12 [1d20=14]
[17:48] <Tiny_Ko_Army> OOC - Roll 1d100 for each, all hit.
[17:48] <Demedais> roll 1d100
06[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 and gets 75."12 [1d100=75]
[17:48] <Demedais> roll 1d100
[17:48] <Demedais> roll 1d100
06[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 and gets 5."12 [1d100=5]
06[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 and gets 73."12 [1d100=73]
[17:48] <Demedais> roll 1d100
06[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 and gets 40."12 [1d100=40]
[17:48] <Tiny_Ko_Army> OOC - First and third hit.
[17:49] <Demedais> roll 6d6+10+16+4d6
06[17:49] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 6d6+10+16+4d6 and gets 60."12 [6d6=6, 3, 2, 2, 2, 1][4d6=6, 2, 5, 5]
[17:50] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Demedais broods down, taking this chance to enact holy justice! Two of the blows find the right spots on this ghostly menace, tearing into it! It's black form wavers but stays intact! At this, it howls again an dreaches for Demedais!
[17:50] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+16
06[17:50] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+16 and gets 36."12 [1d20=20]
[17:50] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+16 crit?!
06[17:50] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+16 crit?! and gets 35."12 [1d20=19]
[17:53] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 well, let's see if the crit status even matters here? Oh hell.
06[17:53] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 well, let's see if the crit status even matters here? Oh hell. and gets 29."12 [1d20=13]
[17:54] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 4d6
06[17:54] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 4d6 and gets 10."12 [4d6=2, 5, 2, 1]
[17:54] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Demedais feels his spirit recoil as the wraith strikes him, then it drifts 15 feet back and out of immediate range! OOC - Seira.
03[17:54] * Tiny_Ko_Army is now known as Kotono
03[17:54] * ChanServ sets mode: +qo Kotono Kotono
[17:55] <Kotono> *Twenty feet.
[17:56] <Kotono> OOC - You can AoO if you want.
[17:57] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str) whack!
06[17:57] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str) whack! and gets 36."12 [1d20=20]
[17:57] <Kotono> OOC - 1d100.
[17:57] <Demedais> roll 1d100
06[17:57] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 and gets 35."12 [1d100=35]
[17:57] <Kotono> Demedais lashes out at the retreating wraith, but his blow passes harmlessly through it's head! OOC - Seira.
01[17:58] <Seira> "Do we retreat?" Seira whispers hoarsely through the Message spell.
[17:59] <Demedais> "...I've injured it, and its touch seems to not be as effective on me. If you stay out of the way, I may be able to dispatch it." Demedais says after a quick moment.
01[18:01] <Seira> Gathering her courage, Seira takes out a scroll of detecting undead she had been keeping all this time, and casts the spell upon her, slowly moving back. "This is yet another excellent time for Aid," she tells the floating archon.
01[18:01] <Seira> OOC: Back towards the room, say 40ft?
[18:02] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[18:02] <Kotono> The little archon looks at Seira oddly a moment, it's light flickering. "Yes..!" it calls, as...
[18:02] <Kotono> roll 1d8
06[18:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8 and gets 2."12 [1d8=2]
[18:02] <Kotono> OOC - Deme.
06[18:03] * Demedais sprints forward ten feet and slashes at the wraith, attempting to end it before it can do any more harm!
[18:03] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str +2 Charge -3 PA) whack!
06[18:03] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str +2 Charge -3 PA) whack! and gets 28."12 [1d20=13]
[18:04] <Kotono> OOC - 1d100
[18:04] <Demedais> roll 1d100
06[18:04] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 and gets 75."12 [1d100=75]
[18:04] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[18:04] <Demedais> roll 3d6+16+2d6
06[18:04] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 3d6+16+2d6 and gets 36."12 [3d6=5, 6, 1][2d6=3, 5]
[18:05] <Kotono> The flashing blade of Demedais hits the wraith, making it twist and swirl like a bad nightmare! BUt it stays intact, reaching for him, screaming! "Warm...warm...warm!"
[18:05] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
06[18:05] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 and gets 18."12 [1d20=2]
[18:05] <Kotono> OOC - Touch AC?
[18:05] <Demedais> OOC: Lower than that. Far lower. 11, to be precise. >_>
[18:05] <Kotono> roll 2d6 and a fort save.
06[18:05] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d6 and a fort save. and gets 10."12 [2d6=6, 4]
[18:05] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 rightyothen
06[18:05] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 rightyothen and gets 33."12 [1d20=17]
[18:06] <Kotono> Demedais is touched again, his armor no defense against this wraith! Yet it survives on, again attempting to drift twenty feet back! Deeper into the dark chamber, the light almost gone now. You can dimly see something is spilled on the floor ahead of you.
[18:06] <Kotono> OOC - Seira.
06[18:07] * Seira advances into the chamber more steadily, looking ahead with both her enhanced senses and the magical sense for undead.
[18:07] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str +2 Charge -3 PA) whack! AoO
06[18:07] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str +2 Charge -3 PA) whack! AoO and gets 26."12 [1d20=11]
[18:09] <Demedais> roll 1d100
06[18:09] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 and gets 19."12 [1d100=19]
[18:09] <Kotono> Once again Demedais lashes out, slashing at the wraith, but it again passes through as it retreats to safety! OOC - PM, Seira.
01[18:12] <Seira> roll 1d20+12
06[18:12] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 and gets 21."12 [1d20=9]
06[18:13] * Seira takes out another scroll, casting true strike upon herself as she observes the battle.
[18:13] <Kotono> OOC - Deme.
06[18:14] * Demedais leaps forward another ten feet! "The undead have no place here! Begone, foul one!"
[18:14] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str +2 Charge -2 PA) whack! AoO
06[18:14] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str +2 Charge -2 PA) whack! AoO and gets 31."12 [1d20=15]
[18:15] <Demedais> roll 1d100 yeah, okay
06[18:15] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 yeah, okay and gets 97."12 [1d100=97]
[18:15] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[18:15] <Demedais> roll 3d6+14+2d6
06[18:15] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 3d6+14+2d6 and gets 29."12 [3d6=4, 3, 2][2d6=3, 3]
[18:16] <Kotono> With that valiant strike, the dread wraith shakes apart! It's foul mist spreads and fizzles into nothing, the room-----! (More)
[18:17] <Kotono> The pedestol of gems is obscured by darkness! The darkness in the room rushes to it, forming! A vast man shaped creature with an empty face, only two points of sickly yellow light for eyes! It towers, it's arms dozens of feet long, like cruel whips of darkness. "You are not the master! You shall not have the sacred gems!" OOC - Initiative and reacts as you like.
01[18:18] <Seira> roll 1d20+5 it always pours
06[18:18] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+5 it always pours and gets 25."12 [1d20=20]
[18:18] <Kotono> roll 1ds20+2
06[18:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1ds20+2 and gets Error: Number of sides must be integer greater than 0."12
[18:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
06[18:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 and gets 5."12 [1d20=3]
01[18:20] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 I always want
06[18:20] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 I always want and gets 17."12 [1d20=5]
02[18:20] * Demedais (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
03[18:20] * Taishyr (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) has joined #dunes
01[18:20] <Seira> Hey
01[18:20] <Seira> We're rolling init and religion knowledge
[18:20] <Kotono> OOC - Strike that.
01[18:20] <Seira> OOC: Yes!
03[18:21] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Taishyr
03[18:21] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[18:21] <Demedais> roll 1d20 woo init
06[18:21] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20 woo init and gets 3."12 [1d20=3]
03[18:21] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Seira>???>Demedais cosplaying miko.'
[18:22] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 kr please!
06[18:22] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 kr please! and gets 23."12 [1d20=16]
[18:22] <Demedais> "You know, this day just keeps getting worse." Demedais curses, looking at it so see if he can recognize it.
01[18:22] <Seira> "Shadow, right?" Seira asks him quietly.
[18:23] <Demedais> "A king amongst shadows." Demedais whispers through Message in return.
06[18:23] * Seira takes out her powerbow and fires at the being without hesitation at her full strength, muttering, "Masters, masters, stop talking about that. Stupid evil creeps."
01[18:24] <Seira> roll 1d20+13+20-6 (true strike, pa)
06[18:24] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+13+20-6 (true strike, pa) and gets 41."12 [1d20=14]
[18:24] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
01[18:24] <Seira> roll 1d8+13 I should hope so
06[18:24] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d8+13 I should hope so and gets 21."12 [1d8=8]
06[18:24] * Seira retreats a bit afterwards.
[18:25] <Kotono> Seira fires an arrow true, retreating back up the stairs! It rips through the shadow, doing as well as a merely magical weapon can do against shadow! To this, the horrid creature rears up! IT turns to Demedais, unable to get at the retreating Seira! Both of it's arms whip out towards him!
[18:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
06[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14  and gets 28."12 [1d20=14]
[18:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
06[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14  and gets 15."12 [1d20=1]
[18:26] <Kotono> OOC - AC, Deme?
[18:26] <Demedais> OOC: Normal AC? 30.
[18:26] <Kotono> Demedais is just able to avoid both attacks, shield deflecting one and his blade parrying aside the second! OOC - Deme.
06[18:28] * Demedais grunts slightly. "Heh, you can't reach through my defenses? Poor you. Rest amidst the pure white bones!" With that, his blade lashes out to crush the shadow before it can do any harm!
[18:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE -4 PA) whack
[18:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE -4 PA) whack
06[18:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE -4 PA) whack and gets 28."12 [1d20=20]
06[18:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE -4 PA) whack and gets 19."12 [1d20=11]
[18:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE -4 PA) whack
06[18:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE -4 PA) whack and gets 16."12 [1d20=13]
[18:29] <Kotono> OOC - One hit.
[18:29] <Demedais> roll 3d6+18+2d6
06[18:29] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 3d6+18+2d6 and gets 37."12 [3d6=2, 5, 6][2d6=5, 1]
[18:30] <Kotono> The blessed blade of Demedais rips into the shadow! It's form is torn, yet remains with more unliving energy! OOC - Seira.
06[18:30] * Seira decides to recover, naturally. "Tell me if you need my help again," she reminds Demedais.
01[18:30] <Seira> roll 2d8+10 heals
03[18:30] * Hotaru (~draomir@75-161-141-227.mpls.qwest.net) has joined #dunes
06[18:30] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 2d8+10 heals and gets 22."12 [2d8=5, 7]
03[18:30] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru Hotaru
[18:31] <Kotono> Seira's injuries heal as much as her drained body allows! Meanwhile, the shadow turns to Demedais, unloosing it's twinned wraith again!
[18:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
06[18:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 15."12 [1d20=1]
[18:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
06[18:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 32."12 [1d20=18]
[18:31] <Demedais> OOC: AC 34.
[18:32] <Kotono> The wraith strikes true and well, but the defensive stance of Demedais puts him just out of reach! OOC - Demedais.
02[18:33] * Loligoth|AFK (~draomir@75-161-143-239.mpls.qwest.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
06[18:33] * Demedais shakes his head. "Your companion was more of a threat, I must say." With that, Demedais again lays his blade into the body of the shadow, attempting to rip it asunder!
[18:33] <Demedais> roll 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE) whack
06[18:33] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE) whack and gets 18."12 [1d20=6]
[18:33] <Demedais> roll 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE) whack
06[18:33] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE) whack and gets 31."12 [1d20=19]
[18:33] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE) whack
06[18:33] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 CE) whack and gets 13."12 [1d20=6]
[18:33] <Kotono> OOC - One hit.
[18:33] <Demedais> roll 3d6+10+2d6 k
06[18:33] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 3d6+10+2d6 k and gets 32."12 [3d6=6, 4, 6][2d6=4, 2]
[18:34] <Kotono> Another strike rips at the horrid phantom, making it shake all over! Despite this, it continues it's cursed existance! OOC -Seira.
06[18:34] * Seira uses this chance to blur her features, just in case.
[18:36] <Kotono> Seira casts blur onto herself, as the room begins to light up! It lights up with sickly green, yellow and black tints, etching out dozens of magical symbolsa ll over! Black energy comes from them, flowing into the shadow! It's body grows larger, shaking as the runes pulse! "None shall have what the master has!" OOC - Deme, you're up.
01[18:38] <Seira> "I'll try to strike at that altar while you keep the shadow busy, deal?" Seira whispers through the link, beginning preparations.
06[18:38] * Demedais hesitates for just a moment... but then lets loose another barrage of hits against the shadow in an attempt to wreck it!
[18:39] <Demedais> roll 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 PA) whack
06[18:39] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 PA) whack and gets 14."12 [1d20=2]
[18:39] <Demedais> roll 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 PA) whack
06[18:39] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 PA) whack and gets 23."12 [1d20=11]
[18:39] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 PA) whack
06[18:39] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -4 PA) whack and gets 15."12 [1d20=8]
[18:39] <Kotono> OOC - One hit.
[18:39] <Demedais> roll 3d6+18+2d6 myaaaar
06[18:39] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 3d6+18+2d6 myaaaar and gets 43."12 [3d6=4, 5, 6][2d6=6, 4]
[18:39] <Kotono> Despite another blow, the shadow seems reinvigorated by the dark energy it receieved, only flickering lightly from this blow! OOC - Seira.
06[18:40] * Seira decides to try and throw a lance of ice at the altar, while the shadow is suitably occupied with Demedais.
01[18:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+16
06[18:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+16 and gets 25."12 [1d20=9]
[18:41] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
01[18:41] <Seira> roll 6d6
06[18:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 6d6 and gets 16."12 [6d6=2, 3, 2, 2, 1, 6]
[18:43] <Kotono> A lance of ice impales the altar the shadow is around, striking it with it's fury! It embeds through it, doing considerable property damage! The shadow flickers under it, but it's not put down yet, either! Instead, the symbols around begin to all glow black! From them come a thousand tiny lances of dark, all trying to turn Demedais into a pincushion!
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19
06[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 and gets 36."12 [1d20=17]
[18:44] <Kotono> roll 3d8
06[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 3d8 and gets 13."12 [3d8=6, 4, 3]
[18:44] <Kotono> roll 1d6+1
06[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6+1 and gets 2."12 [1d6=1]
[18:45] <Kotono> Demedais is stricken by them all, body pained by this mainfestation of negative energy! He feels his body buckle but hold, only minorly diminished! OOC - Deme.
[18:46] <Demedais> "Stupid accursed undead and your stupid devotion to staying that way!"
[18:46] <Demedais> roll 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -3 CE) whack Shadow
06[18:46] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -3 CE) whack Shadow and gets 24."12 [1d20=12]
[18:46] <Demedais> roll 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -3 CE) whack Shadow
06[18:46] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+12 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -3 CE) whack Shadow and gets 32."12 [1d20=20]
[18:46] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -3 CE) whack Shadow
06[18:46] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 (+1 Haste -1 Size +1 Str -3 CE) whack Shadow and gets 22."12 [1d20=15]
[18:46] <Kotono> OOC - All hit.
[18:46] <Demedais> roll 9d6+30+6d6 bangbangbang
06[18:46] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 9d6+30+6d6 bangbangbang and gets 84."12 [9d6=1, 4, 1, 4, 3, 1, 6, 5, 5][6d6=4, 6, 4, 3, 2, 5]
[18:47] <Demedais> OOC: -3 damage.
[18:47] <Kotono> Tearing into the shadow with all he has, Demedais severs the darkness! The shadow rips apart into nothing, the symbols growing faint and then invisible! There is a flash of black, then the room is dimly lit. The shadows are gone, leaving the altar - half broken but intact - and it's gems waiting. A small gray box rests against the alatar.
[18:48] <Demedais> "PUNKS!"
01[18:48] <Seira> "Yeah, whatever. Come help me, will you?"
[18:48] <Demedais> "Yeah, fine, fine." Demedais grunts and moves over to Seira, using the Pearl of Power to heal her.
[18:48] <Demedais> roll 1d4
06[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d4 and gets 4."12 [1d4=4]
06[18:49] * Seira nods in satisfaction. "That hit the right spot. I'll go in again, armed with my mighty undead-detection skills, and you heal yourself."
[18:49] <Demedais> "That's all I have right now... used one on you earlier and one on Saul, so." Demedais says. "It should be enough to get you to Claris.
06[18:49] * Seira does so, looking for undead auras, anything creepy, and traps.
[18:49] <Demedais> Very well." Demedais nods at this, healing himself with lay on hands.
[18:50] <Kotono> OOC - Search check for the traps. No more undead auras.
01[18:50] <Seira> OOC: I am so taking 10 after my previous rolls, so 29
[18:50] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 mm
06[18:50] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 mm and gets 24."12 [1d20=17]
[18:51] <Kotono> The room is not trapped further, at least as far as Seira cna see.
06[18:51] * Seira studies the altar, next. "Ever seen anything this creepy?" she asks the archon.
06[18:52] * Demedais looks around curiously, wondering. "What would this room be for - creating more undead?"
06[18:53] * Seira looks for any traps particularly on the small gray box as she waits on the answer.
01[18:53] <Seira> roll 1d20+19
06[18:53] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+19 and gets 37."12 [1d20=18]
03[18:56] * Retrieving #dunes modes...
[18:56] <Kotono> "No..." The archon clings around, floating. Seira doesn't find any traps on the gray box.
06[18:57] * Seira opens the box warily.
[18:58] <Kotono> Inside the box are several gems. Some are cut, some are uncut. Rubies, diamonds, oynx, sapphire, emerald and more. A few are cracked and broken, some are tossed aside, but a few are real beauties.
06[18:59] * Seira frowns, but takes them. She studies the gems atop the altar, next.
06[19:00] * Demedais looks at the pretty things.
06[19:00] * Seira takes the pretty, and expensive, things
[19:00] <Demedais> "Spellgems?" Demedais hazards.
[19:00] <Kotono> The gems on the altar are four in total. Each is perfectly cut and glistens with the light. A red ruby, a black diamond, a green emerald and a yellow stone you don't identify offhand.
01[19:01] <Seira> roll 1d20+12
06[19:01] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 and gets 21."12 [1d20=9]
[19:01] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 altar check?
06[19:01] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 altar check? and gets 11."12 [1d20=4]
06[19:02] * Seira considers. "Demedais, I think I'll walk out of the room and any possible retaliation range while you take out the altar. Works for you?"
[19:02] <Demedais> "It's an altar. Not one to Helm. Guessing not to Waukeen, but no clue. More your field. In conclusion, fuck that altar, if there's nothing else her- okay, that works too!" Demedais says cheerfully.
06[19:03] * Seira heads outside and to the very range of the Message spell before relaying that she's in place!
01[19:03] <Seira> "Kick that evil thing over!"
06[19:03] * Demedais then strives to split the altar in half, or kick it or just do something to wreck the place.
[19:04] <Demedais> roll 3d6+
06[19:04] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 3d6+ and gets Error: Check syntax."12 [3d6=3, 5, 2]
[19:05] <Demedais> OOC: Bah, strike.
06[19:05] * Demedais specifically aims away from the four gems.
[19:05] <Demedais> roll 3d6+29
06[19:05] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 3d6+29 and gets 37."12 [3d6=3, 2, 3]
[19:07] <Kotono> Demedais brings his sword down! The altar is split in half! The room seems to groan as he does, a flare of energy coming from it! Like a rainbow spray, but it seems to do no harm. The altar is now split apart, the gems falling to the floor.
01[19:07] <Seira> "Success?" Seira asks from safety.
[19:07] <Demedais> "Done. Shall I pick up the gems and come with?" Demedais replies.
01[19:08] <Seira> "Does the room seem inert, now?" she asks, adding, "And of course, pick them up and stow them away separately for later study."
[19:08] <Demedais> "The feeling is fading. And gotcha." Demedais nods, sweeping the gems up and pocketing them in a side pocket of the haversack.
06[19:09] * Seira waits for Demedais to return, before leading the way back to the room Saul is resting in.
06[19:09] * Demedais follows Seira out, giving the room one last look-over before leaving!
[19:09] <Kotono> The gems are taken without incident. The party returns to the table room.  Saul is half asleep here, Claris resting as well.
06[19:10] * Demedais grunts. "I think we rest here for now? You can sleep, I'm not yet tired."
01[19:13] <Seira> roll 1d20+12
06[19:13] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 and gets 27."12 [1d20=15]
[19:23] <Kotono> ---
[19:24] <Kotono> Just before the dawn, Demedaisa wakens. It's natural for him from his priest-like lifestyle, so he finds Claris without difficulty. He is walking out to the gardens, his pace quick.
06[19:24] * Demedais hails Claris. "A word, if I may."
[19:28] <Kotono> Claris stops, walking out through the blue hallway to the gardens. "Follow. I wanted to see the night sky before the sun rises," Claris says, continuing his pace. "How's Seira?"
06[19:30] * Demedais nods and follows at the same pace. "After the attack? She seems alright, though her attitude is a bit different. ...She is what I wished to speak to you of, frankly."
[19:30] <Kotono> "Naturally," Claris cracks a smile as you walk through the warm garden halls. "What's on your mind?"
[19:33] <Demedais> A quick smile in return, before frowning a bit. "...I will be honest; after observing her reactions, despite what you have seen... I do not believe she is a threat. If anything, it has simply caused a severe mood shift plus a slightly more materialistic viewpoint thus far; ideally, that is as far as it is allowed to go, but... even aside from that..."
[19:35] <Kotono> "We still need to cut the root out before it blossoms," Claris shakes his head at that. "I don't believe for a moment that evil would be so passive if it got it's talons into her. Still, it means the immediate priorities may not be threatened."
03[19:36] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-3e885dd7.tcl118.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
03[19:38] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[19:38] <Demedais> "...Even if the evil does begin to take root..." Demedais says after a moment, eyes closed as he follows by sound. "...I believe she is still capable of friendship; furthermore, she is a necessary part of the war against the God-King, and has been since she entered the ruins. ...If you have objections to her orders, I will support you if I feel you right. But. I will not let you harm her - nor let her harm you, if it comes to that.
[19:40] <Demedais> "
[19:41] <Kotono> "If the evil takes root, she may not even keep that," Claris notes. "Evil is ultimately self defeating by it's very nature. It punishes those who follow it as much as they harm the others around them, even if they do not understand it until it is too late. I would not see Seira walk that path."
[19:43] <Demedais> "Then do what you can to help her, but... she must survive to see this through. I believe we all must." Demedais says simply. "Once you have your spells, shall we see that portal destroyed?"
[19:44] <Kotono> "I will."Claris does agree to that. He goes silent long, "I should prepare for that. Excuse me," Claris picks up his pace
[19:44] <Kotono> .
06[19:44] * Demedais nods. "Very well." With that, he turns back and waits near the first doorway, keeping vigil.
[19:47] <Kotono> -----
[19:47] <Kotono> The party gathers at the dawnbreak. Saul, Seira, Demedais and Claris all stand outside in the small patchy grass around the entrance to the ruins. Wasteland spreads in all directions beyond this little refuge, as the dawn's light crests over the dark horizon of the fading night.
06[19:48] * Seira places the dragon's statue in a prominent location to catch the first light.
[19:51] <Kotono> As the first ray of dawn caresses the statue, it glows like the sun! LIght breaks forth from it as it melts into the light! On the wings of dawn a great radiance appears! The ghostly image of a mammoth golden dragon, it's eyes opening. "You have summoned me back..." it asks.
01[19:52] <Seira> "We did!" Seira calls back. "The vile Irenes is vanquished to the Abyss, his prisoners worth saving rescued, and all the demon and undead opposition destroyed! Their portal remains, but not for long, once Claris is able to cast the spell to break its tie to the Prime!"
[19:52] <Demedais> "The task you have set upon us is almost complete. One portal remains, and it shall be destroyed before we depart; we cannot afford to wait another day to call you, as our home is at war. All sentient and aware evil aside from that portal is broken." Demedais nods in agreement to Seira.
[19:52] <Demedais> OOC: Strike.
[19:53] <Demedais> "The task you have set upon us is almost complete. One portal remains, and it shall be destroyed before we depart; we cannot afford to wait another day to call you, as our home is at war. All sentient and aware evil inside is broken." Demedais nods in agreement to Seira.
[19:55] <Kotono> OOC - Diplo check, Seira.
01[19:55] <Seira> roll 1d20+21 aid me, Deme!
06[19:55] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+21 aid me, Deme! and gets 22."12 [1d20=1]
[20:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20
06[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 and gets 30."12 [1d20=10]
01[20:02] <Seira> roll 1d20+9
06[20:03] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+9 and gets 27."12 [1d20=18]
[20:03] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19
06[20:03] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 and gets 30."12 [1d20=11]
[20:04] <Kotono> "Is it?" The dragon asks, looking dead on at Seira. "Is it indeed?"
01[20:04] <Seira> "Got a problem with that?" she asks him. "Feel free to go inside and take a look if you don't believe us!"
[20:06] <Kotono> "I had wished to rest...but you stand before me with that mark?" The dragon's ire stirs, it's voice raising. "You fool."
06[20:07] * Seira twitches. "How am I a fool for going there and ridding the world of Irenes and his demon pals? I guess I am for wasting a precious bit of magic on someone who would rather merge with Celestia than care about fools like me. Yeah, thanks a lot, there."
[20:08] <Demedais> "...Okay. Firstly, sir Terlonn of Torm. You will confirm that neither the mark nor her current state were as such the first time we met?" Demedais interrupts, voice calm.
01[20:08] <Seira> "Hmph." Seira crosses her arms over her chest in irritation.
[20:12] <Kotono> "You have dirtied your immortal soul with that brand!" The dragon's voice rages, "I bestowed my power to you and you go to frolic with demons?"
01[20:12] <Seira> "Yes, I ran right off to do the frolicking! I couldn't wait!"
[20:14] <Demedais> "...Sir Terlonn!" Demedais says, sharply. "Firstly, I wish an explanation of what happened through that door - from either of you, since none of us know. Secondly... even if she did, what choice do you know of her having in the matter?"
[20:15] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 c'mon...
06[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 c'mon... and gets 24."12 [1d20=8]
01[20:15] <Seira> "I'd rather fight for what I believe in in the time I have here than get snuffed just for a chance to kick back and relax in the afterlife," Seira says acidly, glaring at the dragon. "I'm sure merging with a numbered layer of it is very pleasurable, but I'd prefer to actually be useful, here. As long as I live, nothing's final!"
[20:16] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 c'mon... diplo reroll (Negotiator)
06[20:16] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 c'mon... diplo reroll (Negotiator) and gets 32."12 [1d20=16]
[20:18] <Kotono> "You say she was coered, then?" The dragon's anger seems to simmer down, cooling. He listens to Demedais and then Seira, "Then my course of action is clear. It is the fate of all that is good to reach enlightenment. Then...see that if this is final..." The dragon's eyes close, as Seira...OOC - Seira, make a will save.
01[20:19] <Seira> roll 1d20+7
06[20:19] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+7 and gets 20."12 [1d20=13]
01[20:20] <Seira> OOC: 24 according to PM?
[20:22] <Kotono> "One of great demonic might has touched you..." The dragon's voice sounds tired. "I have diluted the mark and weakened it's hold on you." AS it speaks, Seira feels her will surge. Her minds seems to clear somewhat, becoming more lucid. "You will be well advised to complete the dispellation as soon as you are able. It will not be easy, the brand of a balor fades only to the strongest blessings."
[20:22] <Demedais> "It is my suspicion; even if she accepted it in what would be called a willing fashion, I... believe I know the Seira that went through that portal, even if you now believe her completely changed. She went through, as much as she'd hate me using my 'duty' terminology, to ensure she could complete her duty to save her father and continue on to kill the God-King." Demedais says, back to the steel calm. "How the events in that portal changed her? I don't know.
[20:22] <Demedais> "But... I know what went in - she would strive for a greater ideal even at her own cost."
[20:24] <Kotono> "I cannot remove it entirely, for you bowed your head of your own free will. That is something that you will have to atone for in your own time." The dragon listens, "PErhaps that is true of her. She has still made a perilous choice to end up in this place. Should you die before the mark is dispelled, yoru soul will be forfiet to the fiend that lays claim on you.
[20:24] <Kotono> "
01[20:25] <Seira> "I-- I was going to rant about how Zariel got abandoned for trying to do the right thing, but... heh." Seira snorts in amusement. "My thanks, Terlonn. When the time comes, I'll toast you over Gurlan's burning corpse. It was getting annoying to have him filling my head with his stupid ideas."
06[20:25] * Demedais looks to Seira for a moment. "Well, knowing the old her, she probably banks on living forever or however long a dragon-djinn-elf-human-whateverelse hybrid lives to."
06[20:25] * Seira nods at Demedais. "Pretty much, yeah."
[20:26] <Kotono> "This has made me tired..." the dragon's eyes flutter. "Zariel...made the same choice as you, Seira." the dragon notes this, "When presented with temptation."
06[20:26] * Demedais raises his eyebrows for a moment, before shaking his head. "Thank you, Sir Terlonn, for hearing us out."
01[20:27] <Seira> "Sometimes you get an offer you can't refuse," she responds. "Of course, in my case, refusing meant me being tortured to death in the Abyss for quite a long while as my old man remained Irenes's mind-controlled prisoner, among other things."
[20:29] <Kotono> "There is not always a good choice...to die forever or embrace what opposes you. Zariel chose to embrace it and turn on Torm. I am not Torm...in the end." He says that oddly, tiredly. "Vengance is not..." It's voice seems content to trail off.
06[20:30] * Seira nods. "I really appreciate this, but I do want to ask you of something else while I have the chance," Seira tells the dragon.
[20:30] <Kotono> The dawn continues to rise behind the dragon, light illuminating the dead lands. "What is it you wish?"
01[20:31] <Seira> "War's broken out at our home, and we would really appreciate some help with having the other side see reason. That we can defeat them is without question, but I want to avoid the bloodshed. If they were to realize they were facing impossible odds, their morale would surely crumble and those people wouldn't have to die.
01[20:31] <Seira> Having spent considerable time among them in 'enemy' territory I don't really want to kill any of them."
06[20:33] * Demedais nods to Seira's commentary. "Any assistance that can be given to stave off their attack..."
01[20:33] <Seira> "I don't think they would want to face a dragon, even a young one."
[20:34] <Kotono> The light at the dragon's feet forms. The statue of the golden dragon reappears, this time larger. "Very well then. When you return to your home and it is time, set this to the sun's rays and utter the word," What comes next is more of a roar than a word, but Seira understands the draconic phrase. "Now, to sleep again..."
06[20:35] * Seira nods silently.
[20:35] <Demedais> "Ascend in harmony. And thank you again, Sir Terlonn. Rest well."
[20:36] <Kotono> With those words, the dragon vanishes as the dawn finishes rising, the sun beginning it's ascent into the sky.
[20:38] <Demedais> "So. Demon named Gurlan?" Demedais asks as the sun begins to rise.
01[20:39] <Seira> "Balor. Major difference," Seira corrects him. "Think... almost nobility, but not quite."
[20:43] <Demedais> "You did mention a balor." Demedais says, looking to Claris and Saul. "...Oddly, my choice would have been the same, I think. Also did I just stare down another dragon? I think I did. I must be catching your rashness."
06[20:43] * Seira gives him a thumbs up.
06[20:44] * Demedais eyes Seira with a wry grin. "Only for a friend. Shall we prepare to break the circle now?"
01[20:44] <Seira> "Yes. Also, you made a small mistake. There are two portals to the Abyss that need sealing. Permanently."
[20:45] <Kotono> "Two?" Claris speaks up at this. "Which is the other?"
[20:45] <Demedais> "Right, the other one would need it too, wouldn't it." Demedais nods. "Let's get that done before more arrive. ...Probably that black door she got warped into."
01[20:46] <Seira> "Unless you would like to use that door as a weapon against anyone you don't like," Seira adds, nodding.
[20:46] <Demedais> "That would require touching it AND risking more coming out AND risking more people getting demonic pacts. No thanks."
01[20:46] <Seira> "Our path is clear, then!"
[20:46] <Kotono> "Let's go," Claris says, and thus, after waiting for him to refresh spells, returns to the door. Claris casts Dispel Evil and reaches out to touch it...
[20:47] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[20:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 20."12 [1d20=10]
[20:47] <Kotono> The black door shudders and shivers, before tearing itself apart into plain shards of material.
01[20:47] <Seira> "One down!" Seira cheers.
[20:47] <Kotono> "One down," Claris sighs, turning back to begin to go to it.
[20:48] <Demedais> "Well. To think of how much drama that would have solved had we known it would work." Demedais muses, before following the group to the second door.
[20:48] <Kotono> The second waits, writhing chaotically. Claris murmurs the same words again, his hand reaching out, suffused by a white glow!
[20:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[20:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 19."12 [1d20=9]
06[20:48] * Demedais stands guard, just in case it reacts.
[20:48] <Kotono> The portal shudders, shivers...and withers at last. The chaotic swirling ceases, the way clear. "It's done," Claris announces.
[20:49] <Demedais> "And our promise to Sir Terlonn, fulfilled." Demedais nods. "Now, to break whatever's around Seira, heal Berjand, and go home?"
01[20:49] <Seira> "Right. Now me!" Seira asks. "The evil enchantment is still there and once my little buddy returns... eh. I don't want to bother Waukeen for help again."
06[20:50] * Demedais nods once.
[20:50] <Kotono> "Yes," Claris intones another prayer...!
[20:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[20:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 23."12 [1d20=13]
06[20:51] * Seira observes herself with enchantment!
[20:51] <Kotono> Seira's mind clears as the spell is shattered! The little archon looks to her warily, "Are you recovered now?"
01[20:51] <Seira> "Sure thing!" She gives it a smile. "Want to come visit our home? I won't keep you past the twenty-four hours, but maybe you'll like it?"
[20:52] <Kotono> "I need to return home," The archon insists, "Thank you for freeing me, I will never forget it."
06[20:52] * Demedais bows to Denga. "Your assistance has been greatly appreciated in keeping her... well, as sane as she ever is."
[20:52] <Demedais> "Take care, then."
06[20:52] * Seira nods. "Tell Waukeen I really appreciated her help, though I can't remember it all too well... and we're even. Deal?"
[20:55] <Kotono> The wisp vanishes away. Saul watches it go, before he slowly begins to climb up. "Now for Berjand...?"
01[20:56] <Seira> "Yes. I'm somewhat glad he was taken out nonviolently and didn't get caught up in our battle with the undead or the statues."
06[20:56] * Seira shrugs. "But enough's enough, we should bring him back now."
06[20:56] * Demedais nods. "Indeed. I feel bad for leaving him this long, but... yes."
[20:57] <Kotono> The healing of Berjand goes without incident thanks to Saul. Once this is is done, "Now," Saul says tiredly, "I can manage this spell to get us just inside of Balmuria. I'm probably going to need to rest after, I still don't feel right."
[20:57] <Demedais> "That is fine. Would another lesser restoration assist?" Demedais asks.
01[20:58] <Seira> "I've got an inn. You could aim for that if you'd like," Seira offers. "If not, we'll take you there to recover."
[20:58] <Kotono> "I doubt it," Saul shakes his head. "I tried a Restoration myself. This malaise isn't normal. But- it's time to return. Come to me, all of you."
06[20:58] * Demedais nods and approaches.
06[20:59] * Seira gives the place a last glance. "I'll be back, one day. We all will, probably."
[20:59] <Demedais> "Perhaps druids can begin reclaiming the land from here..." Demedais muses, before ensuring everyone is ready for teleport.
01[21:01] <Seira> "I'll research it!"
[21:01] <Kotono> So the spell is cast! Berjand, Saul, Seira, Claris and Demedais travel on the wings of magic! The world itself changes...!!!(More)
[21:02] <Kotono> Inside the gates of the city? Saul does not see it, for he collapses on arrival. Soldiers are all about, gawking in a moment of utter shock. The gates are mained six times over, bustle and hustle all around. Buta fter a moment, in the noon sunshine, "Captain?" one of the soldiers asks. "Sirs?"
01[21:03] <Seira> "Yo! I said we would come on the morning!"
06[21:03] * Seira blinks. "I was late! Sorry!"
06[21:03] * Demedais grabs Saul as he collapses. "Yes, that's us. We're a bit late, had a meeting with a gold dragon's ghost."
[21:05] <Kotono> Claris looks about, as Berjand does so much mor einterestedly. Claris goes to Saul, checking him. "I assume at least the two of you will be going to your commander?" he asks. "I can take care of Saul if you'll give me a few soldiers to carry him."
06[21:05] * Seira snaps her fingers. "I need someone to help Claris and the old man."
06[21:06] * Seira turns to Berjand next. "I know this isn't what we promised originally, but I'll send you back in a day or two. For now, enjoy our hospitality!"
[21:06] <Kotono> A few soldiers salute, coming to help and carry Saul. "Y-yes sir!" One says to Demedais, "The Commander has orders to send you along to him if we see you anyway."
[21:06] <Demedais> "If you could do that..." Demedais nods slightly to Claris. "Berjand, you can come with us or go with them to the inn. We'll arrange for your transportation back once we have a handle on what's going on here, okay?"
[21:06] <Kotono> "Alright," he says, "A warm bed is all I want right now. Aaah..." he begins, "It's hospitable here. I was so tired of wastelands."
06[21:06] * Demedais then nods to the soldier.
01[21:07] <Seira> "Ah, it's nice to be home, after all," Seira says happily, headed into the city proper.
[21:08] <Kotono> Going to the garrison is an eye opening affair. Soldiers clog the streets, only a few vendors open. Many take food door to door, coin exchanged quickly. The city seems  somewhat locked down. On reaching the garrison, you can see that it has taken some fire damage, being repaired by a contingent of soldiers for functionality.  You are ushered into a meeting room as soon as you are seen. (More)
03[21:09] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[21:10] <Kotono> Inside there you find Commander Oberuth waiting. A line of senior non commissioned file out as you do, saluting. Inside you find Commander Oberuth, Alicia and Antenora waiting. "Welcome home. Success?" Oberuth asks, looking red eyed and black circled around his eyes.
06[21:10] * Seira laughs. "More than that! Irenes is dead, the old man is freed, and we have a means of routing the invading army without losses!"
[21:11] <Alicia> "Good news on all counts," Alicia manages a small smile. "What tactic or weapon have you found that will allow such a perfect victory?"
01[21:11] <Seira> "A dragon!"
[21:12] <Demedais> "Maybe."
[21:12] <Kotono> At that, Commander Oberuth does ook up. "You enlisted the assisstance of a dragon?"
[21:12] <Alicia> Alicia's expression becomes a bit more dubious. "Like the one that Demedais killed?" she asks. That pretty much says it all in terms of draconic invulnerability.
01[21:13] <Seira> "As a one-time thing," Seira responds, showing the golden statue. "But once is enough. And if we strike at their commander while they are in disarray, we will have won without harming the soldiers."
[21:13] <Demedais> "Maybe a dragon-blessed avatar to scare them off, or something blessed by the ghost of a really huge dragon. We don't know; he was too tired to tell us."
01[21:13] <Seira> "No. The ancient golden wyrm that was Zariel's mount."
[21:13] <Kotono> Antenora listens but hangs back, eyeing Seira.
[21:13] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
06[21:13] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 and gets 20."12 [1d20=4]
[21:13] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9 who's Zariel?
[21:13] <Demedais> "Nah, this one was killed by the God-King. His skeleton made good attempts at biting me in half, tho."
06[21:13] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+9 who's Zariel? and gets 19."12 [1d20=10]
[21:14] <Kotono> "Zariel?" Antenora asks aloud, "Wait, are you talking about Zariel of Averus?"
[21:15] <Demedais> "Oh: Zariel, right-hand man of Torm, got mind-blasted by the God-King, brainwashed into fighting him." Demedais summarizes. "Sounds right. We met his mount, resurrected it somewhat, had a few chats."
01[21:15] <Seira> "No, I'm talking about Zariel, Torm's right hand... man? Whatever. Before his fall."
01[21:15] <Seira> "I used to have his sword!" Seira pipes in.
[21:16] <Alicia> "Zariel as in former Lord of the Nine?" Alicia asks dubiously. "I'm not sure at all that anyone connected with Zariel would make a dependable ally... Are you saying he was a servant of Torm?" Then again, she's not too fond of Torm, either... Or at least one of his servants.
[21:16] <Demedais> "And that's another story entirely." Demedais coughs. "We have time to tell all those, ah, -after- we handle the attempt at invasion, okay?"
[21:16] <Kotono> "I would like to hear this as well," Antenora speaks up, "Zariel had a relation to this world?"
01[21:16] <Seira> "We can get into all that later," Seira promises. "For now, how long do we have? And has the situation changed?"
[21:17] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth coughs lightly, clearing his throat. "The have a vanguard of about 10,000 troops in three thrusts. It's advancing at a decent clip as of last report. There's at least a few days away from the city, and we're engaging in delay tactics and ambuses for now."
01[21:17] <Seira> "What of the main forces?"
[21:17] <Alicia> "Well, speaking of Hell, its forces are invading through a functioning gnomish portal in the desert," Alicia explains. "A group of celestials are trying to contain them but they need help, so anything that can let us end this ridiculous war with Malmuth and focus on the real problem would be a blessing, I suppose."
06[21:18] * Seira considers. "The north of the desert?"
[21:18] <Kotono> "We don't know." Oberuth notes. "We used aerial means to scout, but we haven't pressed beyond the first wave of forces. They've shown aerial capacities of their own, using hippogriffs and alchemists fire to rain fire down on the city."
06[21:18] * Seira twitches at the mention of alchemist's fire, but does not comment.
[21:19] <Demedais> "..." Demedais pauses at this. "It doesn't ever just rain. It has to... shit lilacs and problems. By Helm, how irritating." At Oberuth's words, he listens intently. "Any way to detect their attempts early?"
[21:19] <Alicia> "Yes, I've been given directions of where to go before a servant of heaven will take us to the battle," Alicia nods to Seira. "But lets focus on ending this pointless conflict with Malmuth for now."
06[21:20] * Seira nods. "We heard of that conflict. I see. Yes, we should end it, decisively. And it will all end with King Ferdi. Have we managed to track down his location?"
[21:20] <Kotono> "We're working on it. From what I gathered afterwards," He stops there, also listening to Alicia. "They rode high in the sky and dove down when they were over the city. We didn't even spot them until they'd attacked the garrison, the ships and Countess Stronger's shop."
01[21:20] <Seira> "Not my inn?"
[21:20] <Kotono> "Ferdi?" At that, Oberuth shrugs his large shoulders. "I'd imagine he's in Valandia, but we don't know."
[21:21] <Alicia> "It may have caught a few misaimed jars of fire, but the target appeared to be Elle's shop - I haven't heard of any real damage to your establishment," Alicia reassures Seira. "The only Malmuthian force we've seen so far doesn't seem to include any of their high level commanders. I don't imagine Ferdi expects it to do much besides wear us down for future battles."
01[21:22] <Seira> "That's because it's built fireproof! But ignore me, will they...." She continues to seethe.
[21:22] <Kotono> "It raises other isasues. IF Ferdi is willing to use 10,000 men simply as a first wave, his reserves are vast." Oberuth leans back, "We're all agreeing that a more pinpoint solution is needed. If we don't, they'll drown us in bodies sooner or later."
[21:23] <Demedais> "Walls of magic to interfere, rains of arrows to deplete their troops, magical assaults to keep them distracted..." Demedais muses. "I don't see how they plan to accomplish too much with our number of spellcasters here."
06[21:23] * Seira pauses at that. "Sir, what if we abducted a soldier and asked him what caused this move against us at such a time?"
[21:23] <Demedais> "But yes, the body count becomes an issue. I... do not know how to counter that."
06[21:24] * Seira frowns. "I am getting the feeling we are missing something, a key piece of information. They can't really be that stupid, can they?"
06[21:24] * Demedais looks to Seira for a long moment.
[21:24] <Kotono> "We have a few prisoners of war already trickling in. We're trying not to capture too much for mobility reasons, but we have a few. If they don't pan out, grabbing an officer is our next step there." At this, "I don't know."
[21:24] <Alicia> "Killing Ferdi is my preferred solution," Alicia volunteers emphatically. "We can hope he's foolish enough to lead from the front - what I've heard of his personality makes it possible. But if he has any sense he'll be at least as far back as Valandia."
[21:24] <Demedais> "Are we missing something you're seeing here?"
01[21:26] <Seira> "Maybe," Seira says. "The day we received the message of the attack was when we killed Irenes. I was about to send response both here and to Malmuth, to coordinate that meeting Ferdi requested with us and Claris. Coincidence? Regardless, why would they give up on such an easy trap for us and just use brute force?"
[21:26] <Alicia> "They must have been marching for some time before you killed Irenes," Alicia points out. "Valandia is a long way from the border."
[21:26] <Demedais> "...I would rather more political unrest not occur, but what must be must be - this is a clearly hostile move." Demedais nods. "We can't afford to lose ground or time here; in addition, we have what Claris and Engan have told us about his presence... this truly may never end until we have eliminated him."
01[21:27] <Seira> "This raises the question of why our scouts are so bad," Seira mutters with another frown.
[21:28] <Kotono> "We don't have much beyond our border since they've been so closed." At that, Oberuth shakes his head. "We do know now, at least."
01[21:29] <Seira> "We'll fix that with time," Seira says. "Well. I would prefer to have a couple days to go through what we found in the fortress. It did not belong to the gnomes, yet it was of a very advanced design. Human, perhaps?"
[21:30] <Kotono> "We can spare a few days - they're not close to the city and we're only in delaying actions right now. To be honest?" Oberuth says at this point, "If we attempt to end this with assassinations, then we're going to be stalling into a siege, most likely."
[21:31] <Demedais> "Also. Is there a way to activate magical walls across our terrain upon use of... I don't know, a command word and a seal?" Demedais muses. "To be able to interrupt anywhere they attempt to set up a base of operations on our terrain would be useful."
[21:31] <Alicia> "Speaking of where you were," Alicia adds to Seira, "I was given a book about the restoration of that area - I only skimmed it, but it'd probably mean a lot more to you than me. I'll drop it off at your inn, later, Captain. But for now lets focus on the immediate threat."
01[21:31] <Seira> "Let's try and win this decisively, then," Seira says. "One of the things we discovered was that the world used to be much larger, once upon a time. Now, great parts of it are just wastes, and I would like to focus on fixing that without distractions."
[21:31] <Kotono> "The sooner the better with information. We can spare a day or two, but longer and we'll be neck deep in Malmuthians." Stopping there to listen, "We have a one shot means of doing something like that thanks to Mihail," Oberuth says. "Can it be viable to put magical walls of stone or force of what have you far enough to slow an army?"
06[21:31] * Seira perks up at Alicia's words. "How useful!"
06[21:32] * Demedais looks to Seira and Alicia.
01[21:32] <Seira> "I'll research it, Sir."
[21:33] <Alicia> "I can't do any spells like that," Alicia shakes her head. "Elle probably could. And if worst comes to worst, she can use Mihail's lava tubes if the Malmuthians are at our gates."
01[21:33] <Seira> "I can cause hallucinations on a wide area," Seira says slowly. "Or I should be able to."
[21:33] <Kotono> "If we use that, it's our trump card. It'll surely put at least a good pause into any frontal assault. I'd rather not use them unless it's required." Oberuth agrees to all of that. "How wide an area?"
[21:34] <Alicia> "Best to save it for when all other hope is lost - so hopefully not at all," Alicia smiles faintly at Obureth.
01[21:35] <Seira> "Three and a half hundred cubic feet, give or take?" Seira ventures, mentally doing the calculations. "Not all that much, but still useful."
[21:35] <Demedais> "We have trained archers... the guerilla ambushes... magical capabilities - and anyone who can dispel them, we can strike at, hopefully disabling and taking prisoner - and multiple other trump. This is not hopeless by any means, though it will take planning."
[21:36] <Kotono> "It would be good for disrupting a good segment of a line..." Oberuth listens and ponders. "Yes, Pollyanna's leading a few in one of the harrassing actions now, actually, Demedais. Her group brought back one of the prisoners this morning."
06[21:37] * Demedais nods in approval. "Good to know."
[21:39] <Kotono> "Alright. Lord Salman has made station outside of Balmuria - in case we do get pinned here, it's important that he can rally the rest of the nation." Oberuth does continue, "We have stores to last at least two months in a siege, assuming our walls aren't breached. More if we can smuggle in supplies and evacuate civilians."
01[21:40] <Seira> "Umm. We can teleport and summon supplies," Seira mentions, raising a hand. "A siege is not an issue."
06[21:40] * Demedais looks to Seira. "You have that one barrel, right? Can that effect be duplicated?"
[21:40] <Kotono> "Can we do that for enough for an entire city full of hungry soldiers?" Oberuth asks.
01[21:40] <Seira> "With effort. I won't be doing it alone, but we have other resources."
[21:40] <Alicia> "Most priests with magical abilities can conjure food, but we don't have enough to feed a city. It could be used to extend our supplies, at least," Alicia suggests.
01[21:41] <Seira> "And then, there are the elves," Seira decides to mention. "Are they here yet?"
[21:42] <Kotono> "Good. I'd still like to avoid a siege - they're nothing but bloodshed for each inch of ground," Commander Oberuth's look sours. "The elven mission passed on that they're readying. The force will have to march through the Barbarian Lands and that'll take at least a few weeks. They're debating between full relie of Balmuria or that and a secondary front towards Tauret. Individual reliefs should be along within a day or two."
06[21:44] * Demedais pauses, lost in thought.
[21:46] <Kotono> "There's another question - which of you are strongest in a flat out assault?" Oberuth asks, "For when we do attempt these eliminations, speed and overwhelming power are essential."
01[21:47] <Seira> "I can kill people without people killing me, does that work?"
[21:48] <Kotono> "That's the idea of the game," Hellman cracks a smile at that, "I mean, which of you can do the most harm to someone the fastest?"
[21:48] <Kotono> "Before, say, a regimen of troops comes down on you like the wrath of Heaven?"
06[21:49] * Demedais looks at Seira and Alicia. "Depends, oddly. Each of us has damage potential, but in our own ways. I excel at the physical, Seira the arcane, and Alicia at mixing the two with precision. This being said... Seira could probably disable the target first, while I could hold the troops off the longest."
[21:49] <Alicia> "I think we've all proven that, Captain," Alicia notes dryly. "I will say that my entire combat style focuses on rapid movement and blending anyone foolish enough to remain within reach of my blades."
[21:50] <Demedais> "Alicia is talented at both, but her main skill is making sure she hits. As I learned, being on the receiving end of her favored spell at one point." Demedais winces.
[21:50] <Alicia> "And Antenora's spear seems entirely designed to kill anything she touches on an initial charge," she adds for the mostly quiet erinyes.
01[21:50] <Seira> "It might be best to keep us together," Seira proposes. "That way, at least one of us will complete the mission."
[21:51] <Kotono> "I can charge well," Antenora speaks up to that, "Killing a troll in one charge isn't impossible." Antenora does speak up at that, "I'd be glad to help as well. I want to."
[21:51] <Alicia> "You're still alive," Alicia notes to Demedais with some admiration noticable in her tone.
[21:52] <Kotono> "I imagine Claris isn't half bad at it," Oberuth listens to each of them, "I'm not sure if putting him against Malmuthians is remotely wise still. Pollyanna's more of a scout. Any others?"
06[21:52] * Demedais looks to Antenora with interest. "This is good to hear." Then, to Alicia, "Yeah, because he wasn't as good at it as you. Good god do I not want to face you when you're mad. There is Engan, who wouldn't hesitate to end Ferdi given half a chance."
01[21:52] <Seira> "Donald, our new friend if he could be convinced to stay longer... quite a few."
[21:53] <Kotono> "Good. Depending on transporation means when we get this chance, I want as many of you to eliminate your targets as fast as possible. Oh, and if it's someone big, bring their head back. Having that on a pike along the walls is a good morale breaker."
06[21:53] * Demedais nods.
06[21:53] * Alicia gives Demedais a smile. "Don't worry, you're one of the nicest people I know, Demedais. I shouldn't ever have any reason."
06[21:54] * Seira isn't quite sure when they deviated from her plan of routing the enemy into wholesale slaughter, but just shrugs.
06[21:55] * Demedais raises an eyebrow. "You missed me wholesale cursing everything and anything at the ruins, then. That's a story for people to get drunk on afterward, though. And I'm afraid I earned my neutral nature there."
[21:55] <Kotono> "Especially Ferdi. If he dies and we can prove it, we have good odds of ending the war then and there." Oberuth does continue. "Alright then. Now then - in short, what the HELL was Irenes doing there?"
[21:56] <Demedais> "Summoning demons. Lots." Demedais says. "Also had undead there, black doors to the Abyss, statues that wouldn't break, and, uh, some rather... creepy... experiments."
01[21:56] <Seira> "He was molesting them," Seira says solemnly. "In unspeakable ways."
[21:57] <Demedais> "I would disagree but with all that happened... that sounds quite possible." Demedais nods.
[21:57] <Kotono> Antenora's eyes turn to Demedais. "Demons?" Her expression becomes darker, far more intense.
06[21:58] * Alicia sighs. "Such lovely company my sister used to keep..." she mutters in distates. "I'm glad he's gone and she won't ever have to deal with him, again."
01[21:58] <Seira> "Unless the balor makes him a servant," Seira mutters quietly.
[21:59] <Alicia> That stops Alicia short. "Okay, a statement like that demands elaboration."
06[21:59] * Demedais looks to Antenora, then to Seira sidelong, then to Antenora again. "Yes, but that can be discussed later. Right now, it is of minimal relevance." he states firmly.
[22:00] <Kotono> "Wait." Antenora turns to Seira. "A BALOR? Do you know which one? A balor's about the demonic imitation of a pit fiend. They're leaders."
06[22:00] * Demedais sighs.
01[22:01] <Seira> "They are," Seira agrees. "I know which one, too. Gurlan's the name. Irenes made a pact with him so he's in the Abyss, now."
[22:02] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9 planes does the name mean anything?
06[22:02] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+9 planes does the name mean anything? and gets 21."12 [1d20=12]
[22:02] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
06[22:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 21."12 [1d20=7]
[22:03] <Alicia> "And you think this Balor could cause trouble for us in future?" Alicia asks carefully. Bad enough all their devil troubles...
01[22:03] <Seira> "Almost certainly!" Seira says with eagerness. "And we'll kill him! Definitely!"
[22:06] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth rubs his forehead slowly, "A worry for another day. Let's worry about the army marching otwards us first.":
06[22:06] * Alicia wearily rubs her brow. "One thing at a time..."
[22:06] <Demedais> "I'd support the motion." Demedais growls. "But we need to focus on the problem at hand, okay? Perhaps caltrops can be made and dropped on the horse units from above to handle them?"
06[22:06] * Demedais looks to Oberuth and Alicia with a slight grin.
01[22:07] <Seira> "I think my time would be better-served studying what we found in the fortress," Seira muses. "At least for the day or two I asked originally. There might be something pertinent."
[22:07] <Demedais> "Alternately, can we counter with alchemist's fire of our own?"
06[22:07] * Seira chokes.
[22:07] <Kotono> "It's an idea. We have the pegasi, which have been extremely useful. Antenora can fly indefinitely, and Seira and Alicia can cast flying magic." Rubbing his forehead again, "Seira, are you alright?"
01[22:07] <Seira> "A true mage would never do that!" Seira exclaims. "It's the most stupid idea anyone's ever had!"
06[22:08] * Seira mutters about alchemical fire.
06[22:08] * Demedais eyes Seira.
[22:09] <Demedais> "You sound sick. The trip must have done something to you. Perhaps resting would be a good idea?"
[22:09] <Alicia> "Malmuth's own attack with alchemist's fire failed to inflict any real, lasting damage," Alicia points out. "I don't think it would work on them - in fact it would be even less useful against a marching army than against stationary buildings and ships."
01[22:09] <Seira> "That's because it's-- it's-- fire-lite! A fake fire! Not worth of being called fire at all!"
[22:09] <Demedais> "True... argh, there has to be some way to disrupt their advance. We want to wear them down as much as possible. Make them unable to fight back; make a siege unsustainable."
06[22:10] * Demedais looks to Seira with amusement. "Make real fire-in-a-bottle, then!"
[22:10] <Kotono> "The ships were an issue - the building damages are more irritants, and Stronger's shop had less problems anyway," Clearing his throat a moment, "No matter what it is, it still burnt well enough. What about summoning? Is there any way to summon enough to make any sort of serious impact?"
01[22:10] <Seira> "That's a waste of my valuable time, it takes me a week to do that," Seira tells Demedais with a frown.
[22:11] <Demedais> "Fair enough. Summoning... flying units that can wear them down, perhaps? Or tunneling ones to strike from below?" Demedais muses. "I don't know what's within the realm of possibility there."
06[22:11] * Seira frowns, then. "Well... we do have one alliance we haven't tapped into, yet," she says cautiously. "If the situation feels truly dire, we could try."
06[22:12] * Demedais looks to Seira in confusion.
01[22:12] <Seira> "We have a mostly-working portal to the elemental plane of water just a few hours away," she reminds Demedais. "And Oolu is quite old and knowledgeable, not to mention powerful, I bet."
[22:13] <Demedais> "And whimsical." Demedais muses. "Still, possible; he'd hate to lose Balmuria as an ally at this point. Perhaps he can help us harry the army if they try to resupply from the bay?"
[22:14] <Kotono> "The logistics of that aren't terribly feasible." Oberuth adds at that. "They can resupply from Valandia far quicker than any boat trying to go around could."
01[22:14] <Seira> "And the other planes have not been hit by the gnomish war of the past," Seira adds. "They still have their share of casters, who could be recruited."
[22:17] <Kotono> "It's a thought," Oberuth listens and agrees, "We need every shred of help we can get. Speaking of, I've been in contact with the churches of Waukeen and Helm, as well as Al'Lamar and the constructing temples of Gond, Mystra and Torm. We should have plenty of support from those quarters."
01[22:17] <Seira> "Waukeen's support for our cause is strong," Seira agrees. "You won't have any problems from that end, Sir."
[22:18] <Kotono> "I know. Helm's temple is agreeable as well. Honestly, there's been no problems on that. Even the temple of Torm, headed by a foreigner from the east, has agreed to help with the wounded as much as they can."
06[22:19] * Seira is ambivalent on the subject of Torm, though overall doesn't look entirely too pleased at those news.
[22:20] <Kotono> "Alright. Any other ideas?" OBeruth asks.
06[22:20] * Demedais nods. "The High Priest of Helm will have no problems assisting. He has the resources, or at least he should; I can assist coordination from that direction." After a moment, "...None currently, though this will take me much time to think over."
06[22:21] * Seira has an urge to sack the temple to Torm, but doesn't suggest it. "I think we should focus on our immediate defenses," she says instead. "If Mihail's creation directs lava to the area at the front, we should alter the landscape to force any invading forces to take that route.
01[22:21] <Seira> "
[22:22] <Kotono> "Yeah, we've been working on things like that. It's part of why we're delaying, reasonable works on that will take a few days." Then, "What about you, Alicia. Anything? If not, there are a few more matter sto discuss."
01[22:23] <Seira> "More ideas will surely come later."
[22:24] <Alicia> "I maintain my belief that if we eliminate the cause of the war - ie King Ferdi, then matters should be resolved swiftly in our favour and with minimal bloodshed. Until we find out where he is, I remain at your disposal," Alicia volunteers primly.
[22:25] <Kotono> "Well then." Oberuth nods to that at last, "Events weren't boring here. FIrst off, the unicorn at the grove has a mate now, thanks to Alicia and a detachment of the guard helping to dispose of some trolls."
01[22:25] <Seira> "Everyone's getting together now, these days," Seira muses, listening to Oberuth.
[22:25] <Alicia> "I'm sure we'll hear the pitter patter of tiny hooves in no time at all," Alicia adds dryly.
[22:26] <Kotono> "Secondly...we had devil problems again. It was rather unpleasant, albiet that we eliminated them without losses." At that, Oberuth look sto Alicia and Antenora. "This is more of your perspective, I was only there to smash themin with the hammer."
06[22:27] * Demedais half chuckles, half shivers. "What was this about?"
[22:27] <Alicia> "A group of devils took up residence outside of the city and made a contract with someone who intended to have me possessed with a corruption devil," Alicia explains. "After thwarting that, we tracked them to their lair and eliminated them. According to Latha, they came from the desert portal - she's one of the devas trying to keep them contained, though obviously they need help."
[22:30] <Kotono> "They're very dead now, yes," Antenora smiles a little bit, but it's not a nice smile. A hunter's smile, really. "Thankfully. After that, matters were...resolved. But HEll isn't going to rest against us now, too."
[22:30] <Demedais> "..." Demedais goes silent at this. "Balmuria has a penchant for attracting... those of far denser skull material, it seems. Still, now we have hell, the abyss, the God-King, and Malmuth."
06[22:30] * Demedais pauses in reflection.
[22:31] <Demedais> "Okay, once this meeting is done I think I'm going to start cursing again and not stop until I run out of breath."
[22:32] <Alicia> "The last is the most pointless but sadly the most immediate," Alicia laments. "No wonder the forces of the lower planes consider us ripe for conquest, if we waste so much effort fighting each other over one man's ego-stroking," she concludes scathingly.
[22:33] <Kotono> "Hell won't stop for just that reason. Humans - mortals, that is, are by and large easy to manipuate and dominate. Only a few can stand up to them at all. The majority aren't hard to mold into what they want, as they don't have the will to resist effectively. With a gate on the world, there won't be any peace until it's closed. Plus...Hell never forgets. Everything is recorded and remembered. Even if you kill the Cornugon or Pit Fiend or even
[22:34] <Kotono> Pit Fiend or even the Duke who spearheads this invasion, those that rise up or control him won't forget."
[22:34] <Demedais> "They consider us ripe for conquest no matter what happens here." Demedais mutters. "Any chance we can just teleport a huge rock over Ferdi's head and hope it causes him severe trauma?"
[22:35] <Alicia> "All the more reason to present a united front," Alicia declares in response to Antenora's speech.
06[22:35] * Demedais nods to Antenora. "Well said. ...You've become more loquacious on these subjects, it seems."
[22:36] <Kotono> "Yes. It'll make it easier...all three of you are known in Hell. It may not be in a day, a month or even a year. It may not even be in a decade, but Hell will remember. It may not even be on you, but your children or your children's children. I've known stories of towns massacred because the great grandfather of a peasant there killed a Pit Fiend."
[22:37] <Demedais> "Note to self - ensure any descendants of mine stick around with Helm for protection." Demedais mutters.
[22:38] <Kotono> Antenora looks to Demedais at that, "I have." She doesn't stop there, though. "A devil thinks like that. When you strike at a devil, you strike at his superior, and his superior's superior and all the way up the chain. Even to Lor-to Asmodeus if what you did merits his attention."
01[22:39] <Seira> "Clearly, we must invade Hell and seize control of it," Seira muses. "Something to do as a retirement project, perhaps?"
06[22:39] * Demedais pauses at this.
06[22:39] * Demedais looks at Seira.
[22:40] <Demedais> "Your retirement or ours?"
06[22:40] * Seira looks at him, distracted. "Hmm? I can share, if that's what you mean."
[22:41] <Demedais> "Not the point." Demedais looks back to Antenora. "That does make things problematic."
[22:41] <Alicia> "I wouldn't," Alicia tells Seira. "Even without the devils, the entire plane itself is inimical to goodness and justice. Even if you had the power, you may simply exchange one set of tyrants for another." The strangest thing is, if they can slay Daa-vid then they might even have that level of power, one day.
01[22:42] <Seira> "Well then. How about something equally ambitious, then?" Seira proposes. "Once we're done with the God-King, why don't we seal off Prime from the nastier planes of existence?"
[22:43] <Alicia> "So long as it doesn't result in evil people immediately rising as undead due to their souls having nowhere to go," Alicia replies thoughtfully.
[22:44] <Kotono> "If you could find a way..." Antenora considers...
[22:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
06[22:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 20."12 [1d20=6]
[22:44] <Kotono> She does shrug after a bit, "Easier said than done."
01[22:44] <Seira> "I'm good with one-way travel, I suppose," Seira muses. "Well. That's for later. That book you've mentioned, our ongoing plans and the magical equipment discovered all await. Unless there's anything further?"
[22:45] <Demedais> "Something to consider later, okay? We wandered off track again."
[22:45] <Alicia> "Yes, such grandiose plans are of no help in the here and now," Alicia nods resolutely.
[22:45] <Kotono> "Go on. I've spent too long here, there's matters for me to attend to," Oberuth rises. "I'll be calling on all of you for suervices or reports in a few hours. Until then, go rest up. Get some food and sleep if you need it."
06[22:45] * Demedais nods in gratitude and salutes.
06[22:46] * Seira salutes, seeming pleased, and decides to go and visit Elle.

[Corwin]

[19:36] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> ----
[19:38] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> Amid all of Seira's hurried rushes and work, she finds time to go home. As the city is in a disciplined panic all around her, she finds Berjand resting in an inn room. He lies there, looking up at the ceiling. Despite all the chaos, he looks to be simply resting.
01[19:41] <Seira> "How do you like it here?" she asks him without preamble, getting herself a decent drink at long last.
[19:42] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "It's temperate." He says this as he sits up, "The desert's always frying hot or freezing cold."
01[19:44] <Seira> "It could take some getting used to," Seira agrees. "Not that I'm implying you should. Although if you wanted to, I could surely afford to buy out your contract, as you're probably realized. Just say the word, then."
[19:47] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "It's done. You already did, you know." Berjand looks to Seira with an open look. "Thank you. I'm free of my former Master now."
01[19:50] <Seira> "Ah." She nods at that. "Well, you're certainly free now, yes. As such, we would like to extend an offer for you to stay around for a while, and consider a commission with the guard, here. You'd be surprised at how many travelers found their way to this place, and the conditions we offer are certainly above average." She smirks. "Plus, we never get bored, which is important in our line of work!"
[19:52] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> Berjand lies back at that, "I'll consider it. Right now, I don't know what I'll do. I have a few ideas...maybe I'll go back to Arad and earn enough to get a good home and some sort of stable income. Maybe I'll go west and see how the Kelaran trade is doing and try to earn money there. But nothing's settled yet."
06[19:54] * Seira snorts. "You've already earned enough for a good home, trust me. That's what I really came to talk to you about before we got all derailed. Remember how I said there'd be a bonus if you participated in our strike against that loser wizard?"
[19:55] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Yes." Berjand's eyes go a little wider, "I do remember that now..."
01[19:58] <Seira> "A deal's a deal. We intend to give you magical armor above the entry level, so to speak, and push your own weapon up to those standards. It is mainly for those reasons that I would ask you to stay. This should be done here, in the city, and the mage in question would understandably be occupied with other matters right now." Seira shrugs.
01[19:58] <Seira> "Or you could just get the gold and buy yourself a house. Think you're ready to settle down just yet?"
[20:03] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Aaah." Berjand's eyes widen again, "If that money is half of what I think it is..." His voice is filled with marvel.
03[20:04] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-514de6a4.l4.c1.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
01[20:04] <Seira> "We treat our friends well," Seira says. "And our enemies... well, we try to give them a chance. But if they don't take it...." She shakes her head. "I'll leave you to think about this. If you do decide to leave, I only ask that you tell my bard a few stories to expand his repertoir."
03[20:04] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[20:05] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "The burly, loud man out front?" Berjand smiles at that. "Where did you find such a strange bard?"
01[20:05] <Seira> "He happens to qualify," Seira says, a touch defensively, "though it puzzles me that you'd consider him remotely weird considering what I have for a maid."
[20:06] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "...mmm. A different life. Then again, you do fight those...demons?" Berjand's mood evaporates. "I'd heard the occasional mention of it growing up, but creatures like that exist?"
01[20:07] <Seira> "They exist, though we fight them quite rarely. And we certainly try to shield those in our command from facing things they are not ready to face."
[20:10] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Then is all of that true? About the planes? Great places of light and the Hells, where souls are desired?" Berjand shivers. "I never put that much stock into it."
01[20:11] <Seira> "There's more to it," Seira muses. "If you don't want to leave the Prime, there are ways to stick around longer, as long as you're not dying from old age. In the end, though, you need to be a pretty horrible or unlucky person to end up downstairs."
[20:11] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Like Irenes?" Berjand asks this, to the point.
01[20:13] <Seira> "He's firmly in the former group, yep. You were recovering when we exploring his... laboratory, I suppose. I won't repeat what we found there, and your imagination is likely insufficient. He's where he belongs, now."
[20:20] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Mmm. Then let me think on this offer. Will you be busy with the war in the meantime?"
01[20:24] <Seira> "I won't be too busy, and I expect to return home every day except in emergencies," Seira tells him. "You'll get plenty of chances to talk to me if you need to, but Donald would be a great substitute if I'm unavailable."
[20:25] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Alright. Is he your apprentence?" Berjand asks.
01[20:26] <Seira> "In many ways!" Seira agrees happily.
[20:27] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Aaah, I see then. Thank him for the aide for me." Berjand goes back to lying on the bed. "Also...I so missed real beds."
06[20:29] * Seira nods, resolving to herself to leave a short note for Donald explaining Berjand's situation. It would be quite nice if he helped her recruit the man inoffensively.
[20:31] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> A few hours later, Seira finds a moment to dash up the hill and to Elle's shop. A few soldiers are hustling along, carrying a heavy wooden box. Elle watches them, looking tired but calling, "And if you drop that, you'll be dead before you realised acid's eating your flesh away!" she warns.
01[20:31] <Seira> "Ah, acid, my favorite," Seira comments.
01[20:32] <Seira> "The very first spell I learned summoned bits of it. Did you know?"
[20:33] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> Elle turns, rubbing her eyes. "Oh good. Just in time," Elle smiles at that, "I'll remember that. I assume things are taken care of if you're back? Oh, and in one piece, too! That's a better sign."
01[20:35] <Seira> "I was in pieces, but then I got better. Then the circle repeated." Seira frowns. "I don't like the desert."
[20:36] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Tell me about it," Glaring at the soldiers, "CAREFUL," she warns as one nearly drops the box. Elle sighs, before turning back. She reaches out and clasps Seira's shoulders, "I'd love to sit down and spend an afteroon catching up, but I'm so contracted to help our lovely town kill every one of the bastards invading. Or something like that." She even smiles at that, "So I'll get to the point."
06[20:38] * Seira nods, dejection melting away instantly. "I'll get to the point as well. But age before beauty."
[20:39] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> A loooong look at Seira, cracking a smile. "Remember how I told you I had a surprise lined up? Well, fate got in the way, so I'll get to it. Your helper Donald's a goodswordsman, but he also has a brain in there if you can get past his foot in mouth disorder. He came to me asking about magic since he was curious, so I ended up yelling at him and giving him the basics. He's a fast learner at it."
01[20:40] <Seira> "Finally." Seira nods curtly. "I was beginning to worry. He was holding himself back for so long, it just wasn't healthy."
[20:41] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Yeah. He complained about wanting to be a paladin at first, but...anyway, I worked tha tout for you since all this happened. Now, you rturn."
01[20:43] <Seira> "I heard about Mihail's legacy having a shot in it if all else fails?" Seira asks, continuing instantly, "Well, I have something quite like that. A onetime golden wyrm summoning, if all goes well."
[20:43] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> Elle's face darkens at the mention of Mihail, but listens. "...Mystra, that is impressive."
01[20:44] <Seira> "I thought so, too," Seira agrees. "There's a lot we need to discuss. The magic I found, the history of the world-- even a trinklet that's faded away, now, but with a bit of work could become an artifact in its own right once more. I suppose that'll have to wait though, won't it?"
[20:47] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Yeah." Elle turns away, "We need to talk about Mihail and Alicia and other things, too. There really has been a lot going on." She half flashes a smile, "Take care."
01[20:49] <Seira> "There's something important, first," Seira says, catching up to her once more, before whispering, "How is your progress on our elf-inspired project?"
[20:50] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "About three quarters done," Elle's voice drops low at this. "It's not an easy thing to make at all. The components took time and effort to obtain and the actual casting is draining." AT that, "Do you need it?"
06[20:50] * Seira nods. "Yes. It will become particularly relevant if you happen to have a special mirror. Like the kind used for scrying, incidentally."
[20:52] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "I have another scroll if you  need it, but otherwise?" Elle shakes her head, "I can try to finish it if you need it, but Mystra only knows how fast I'll be."
01[20:52] <Seira> "The scroll would have to do," Seira decides. "But are you certain you don't have the mirror I mentioned? I'd only need to borrow it for a few minutes at the most."
[20:54] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Oh. Sorry." Elel shakes her head, "Yes, I do have one. It's in the back of the shop in my personal room. Go ahead and borrow it."
06[20:55] * Seira smiles widely. "I will tomorrow. Thanks a lot!"
[21:03] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> ---
[21:03] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> OOC: Seira, go ahead and set up your scrying attempt.
06[21:05] * Seira secludes herself in the back of Elle's shop, setting up a silent alarm about the perimeter before focusing on the task at hand. A handy coin with the monarch's likeness is placed before the mirror, shining after she polished it the previous night, and Seira glances into the mirror, casting the spell of Scrying.
[21:05] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> roll 1d20+16
06[21:05] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Uguu_Loop rolls 1d20+16 and gets 25."12 [1d20=9]
[21:05] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> OOC: DC?
01[21:06] <Seira> OOC: DC25, but he gets -2 to a roll
[21:06] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> OOC: I added that in already.
[21:06] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> The spell is cast, but the mirror stays dark and unresponsive.
01[21:06] <Seira> OOC: :( try 2
[21:06] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> roll 1d20+16
06[21:06] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Uguu_Loop rolls 1d20+16 and gets 30."12 [1d20=14]
[21:07] <Ebiris> OOC: you can't scry on the same person twice in 24 hours if they save
01[21:07] <Seira> OOC: ...right, redo of second scry
[21:07] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> OOC: Eb's right, okay.
06[21:08] * Seira discards the coin angrily, before focusing her mind on the rogue she had fought beside in Kondrux's lair. The sneaky bastard just might be near his king!
[21:08] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> roll 1d20+9
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Uguu_Loop rolls 1d20+9 and gets 18."12 [1d20=9]
[21:10] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> The mirror grows clear! Pallan comes into view! He stands in a dark cell. In the shadows you see a broken man, cuts over his skin. "...sorry," Pallan shakes his head. "His Majesty's orders." He glances back, "...I'll tell him you cooperated. Your life will be spared."
06[21:11] * Seira listens in, trying to catch the man's response. Even if she's too far, she could attempt to cast Message or read his lips!
[21:12] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> The man barely moves, just a groan given. Pallan raps on the door, a Malmuthian soldier opening it and saluting. "Sir." he says, as Pallan heads out.
06[21:13] * Seira keeps on watching, for now. The man may not be in any condition to talk, even if she promised him freedom.
[21:14] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> Turning ot the soldier, "He cooperated, in accordance to His Majesty's wishes. Here." Pallan thrusts a small blue vial into the man's hands. "When he wakes up, have him drink this. As he cooperated, he's under His Majesty's protection, do you understand?"
[21:15] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Sir!" The soldier salues crisply. "Understood, sir!"
[21:16] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> Pallan nods and walks away. The hallway is a dim cell block of bleak stone. He walks down this for a minute, then goes up a long flight of stairs. He comes up in a pleasant looking house, sunlight streaming in the windows. HE walks along this path, past servants and guards with golden breastplates.
06[21:17] * Seira intends to follow Pallan along, while mentally taking note of the surroundings. Claris would surely be able to deduce where they're staying, unless Ferdi is in hiding... and that doesn't seem to fit his attitude.
06[21:17] * Seira casts Detect Magic as she watches, however.
01[21:17] <Seira> roll 1d100
06[21:17] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d100 and gets 37."12 [1d100=37]
06[21:19] * Seira sweeps her eyes back and forth, hoping to catch as much of the area they're passing as she can.
[21:19] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> He goes to a set of stairs and goes up them, past a rich mural of a castle. On this second floor there are no windows, a long, well guarded hallway walked down. It's been two minutes total when he comes to a door that is opened by grim faced guards. In here are two men. In a high backed throne sits King Ferdi-Seira's head spins. There is an aura about him, a feeling of majesty.  The raw force he projects on looking at him is might
[21:20] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> The raw force he projects on looking at him is mighty. Standing at attention before him is General Olburt. "He cooperated, Majesty," Pallan bows low.
06[21:21] * Seira listens, eyeing Olburt and comparing his aura to the one she saw previously, before studying the present area intently.
[21:21] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Good, good," Ferdi smiles faintly. "The first force is making slow progress from hit and run tactics, as well as from defenses. Pallan, form your force and prepare. I'd like you to try and catch them at it."
[21:22] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "'course, Majesty," Pallan agrees, "With five normals and five augumented soldiers, it shouldn't be too hard."
[21:24] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "Go on," Ferdi waves his hand, as Pallan turns to leave. He walks out, heading back down the hall.
[21:25] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> Most of the rest of the duration is taken up by Pallan walking. He walks out of the house, into a pleasant street. He goes to the next building over, squatter at to the point. Here a group of soldiers wait. they look to be in good shape and form. "We'll leave in an hour," Pallan says shortly. "Get prepared if you8 have anything else to do."
06[21:28] * Seira decides to wait out the spell. Using a message to communicate doesn't seem a good idea, under the circumstances. Perhaps Pallan will detail their route or go over their plan once more as they prepare."
[21:28] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> The soldiers nod and go off. Pallan goes to sit, bowing his head as the duration reaches it's very last minute. He seems lost in thought.
01[21:29] <Seira> So is Seira, when the spell finishes and the mirror clears. Nevertheless, she picks up her coin, headed to a briefing.
[21:30] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> The three direct members of the Crimson Guard meet together. Commander Oberuth looks them over, "Seira?" he asks, tired but alert despite black bags. "Report."
03[21:31] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
01[21:32] <Seira> "I might know where King Ferdi is," Seira opens with, before relating all that she had seen in the mirror. "It might be enough for a teleport, especially if we prepare properly. Or we might choose to prevent Pallan from executing his plan, first. As he seems to intend to set a trap for Pollyanna's group, we could take their place and fall into it."
[21:33] <Alicia> "If Pallan intends to strike at our skirmishers it must mean they are either close to the border or have their own teleportation abilities - do you know exactly where they are?" Alicia asks.
[21:34] <Demedais> "Do we have either a consistent way of getting back if we strike at Ferdi or a estimation of how close Pallan and Ferdi are?" Demedais asks, before looking to Alicia.
01[21:34] <Seira> "No, but we know where our group has been striking, and we could continue along those lines," Seira tells Alicia, before shaking her head at Demedais's question. "Nothing foolproof, but we do have a better than average chance."
[21:36] <Alicia> "Well, I don't mind upsetting their counterattack, but attacking Ferdi is our best shot at swiftly ending this war before it really starts," Alicia puts in her opinion.
[21:37] <Demedais> "...Have all our guerilla attacks been launced at the same areas of the units?" Demedais asks after a moment.
[21:37] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "It's one thing to go there, but getting out alive's a point, too." Oberuth shakes his head. "I'd rather you have some means of escape planned out before you go and try this."
[21:38] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "No. They're dispersed randomly," Oberuth adds. "No intentional pattern."
06[21:38] * Demedais nods after a moment. "Could this mean they have their own way of detecting or following our units?"
01[21:38] <Seira> "We have... less than twenty percent chance of failure at hitting our desired location," Seira muses, quickly running over the odds in her head. "Getting out... well, we do have our trump card, and it might do. If not, we could try that broom Elle has on sale."
[21:39] <Demedais> "Well, no. Then they would prevent the attacks." Demedais says after a moment. "Still, for Pallan to be that confident..."
[21:39] <Alicia> "I can cast Fly for all three of us, which would last long enough for us to get past any immediate pursuit," Alicia suggests.
01[21:40] <Seira> "In the end, if they have short-ranged flight or teleport capabilities, merely staying at the center of their main force and waiting on any attacks to come would be sufficient for a rapid response," Seira muses. "And, of course, he could have meant a direct attack on Balmuria."
[21:42] <Alicia> "They're probably intending a rapid response, perhaps with some sort of signal for when they come under attack," Alicia muses. "Attaching ourselves to the skirmishers would likely ensure victory despite any countermeasures they take, however."
01[21:43] <Seira> "It should also allow us a chance to estimate the enemy's 'augmented' forces without showing our hand or getting in too deep," Seira adds.
[21:43] <Demedais> "True. Mmm. This is frustrating, but yes, if we were to attend with the skirmishers, it would tip the balance, and it seems - for now - a far surer method than jumping at Ferdi currently. While that should be done soon... for now, yes, I'd go with this."
[21:45] <Alicia> "In the long run, defeating a small detachment in this manner will have no effect on the overall outcome of the war," Alicia shakes her head. "But it may give us something to do today if preparations are required before attacking Ferdi himself."
[21:46] <Demedais> "Also, if we catch Pallan, we may be able to gain more information in one way or another. He is one of their better men, it seems."
01[21:47] <Seira> "Not quite," Seira comments, before nodding at Demedais's words. "While they have men aplenty, they surely lack in capable commanding officers. Depriving them of one from King Ferdi's inner circle might be more crucial than it seems, especially if we do the same to Olburt later on."
06[21:48] * Demedais nods. "Depriving Ferdi of capable leadership other than himself may end the war quicker, as well as make it easier for us to carry out our tasks."
01[21:49] <Seira> "Irenes and my old man, Claris, now Pallan if all goes well... losing them are all slaps in the face to someone like Ferdi, so if we do this enough, it might push him into making a rash mistake and coming to us in person."
[21:50] <Alicia> "Tch... Pallan. I never liked that little weasel from the start," Alicia glowers. "I'll be glad to correct my leniency from our last meeting."
[21:50] <Demedais> "Mmm."
01[21:54] <Seira> "By correcting you mean taking him prisoner so we could interrogate him, naturally?"
[21:55] <Alicia> "Yes, Captain," Alicia replies stiffly. "What did you think I meant?"
[21:56] <Demedais> "Probably what I was thinking of." Demedais says with a wry grin. "Regardless, yes, capture him and handle things from there."
06[21:56] * Seira snorts. "The urge to take him out is strong, yes."
[21:57] <Alicia> "I have practice at resisting such urges," the paladin replies levelly.
01[21:59] <Seira> "There's just one matter to discuss, then," Seira mentions, ignoring the tone. "Do we really want to take others along, or should we serve as the decoy group ourselves entirely?"
[22:01] <Demedais> "I would say... take at least a few. Make the size match up to what they expect. It is riskier, perhaps, for those we take along, but we should aim to make it as similar as possible to the real situation."
[22:02] <Alicia> "And we should attempt to disguise ourselves so that they won't realise the true danger until too late," Alicia suggests.
[22:03] <Demedais> "Yes. For that reason... I should likely go unarmored, shouldn't I? They would know something was wrong if I went completely in full plate on such a mission, so."
01[22:03] <Seira> "Agreed." Seira nods at Alicia. She frowns, then. "Not if you placed a cloak over your armor."
[22:04] <Demedais> "My slow rate of movement would still be noticeable, no?"
01[22:04] <Seira> "On a horse?"
[22:05] <Demedais> "Would we be taking one for this? I would think that more noticeable, but if that is the method taken, a thick long cloak should work, yes."
01[22:06] <Seira> "What we should do is make sure we each have a decent bow, but nothing too obvious, as those augmented with energy." She shrugs. "I sincerely doubt our troops ran to the front lines and back, so yes, if we want to stick to the same pattern."
06[22:07] * Demedais nods slightly.
[22:18] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> The afternoon begins as Pollyanna prepares. The drably dressed Guard rides out with her, seven normal soldiers with her and Pollyanna on point.  The day is dim and dark here, clouds rolling in from off the bay. Hard riding is ahead, your goals looming...OOC - if you have anyhing to declare ro do, say so.
01[22:19] <Seira> "Pollyanna, you lead the last attacks, right?" Seira asks.
06[22:19] * Demedais just makes sure he's indistinguishable visually, with the cloak covering his entire body as a precaution.
[22:20] <Alicia> Alicia helpfully casts Message on the group as she rides with her cloak pulled up to cover her head and shadow her face, but saves any further spells for when contact with the enemy is imminent. "I've cast Message so you can speak to each other just by whispering and it'll carry, but you should give orders loudly like normal so they won't notice anything unusual," she suggests.
01[22:20] <Seira> "We'll follow you on a harrassing mission just like all the others," Seira tells her. "If we do manage to reel Pallan's group in, I want your team to fall back and provide us cover from a safer distance. Are there any problems with this?"
[22:22] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "None at all," Pollyanna agrees, "You're far better than the average soldier anyway."
01[22:24] <Seira> "Well, let's go bait us some enemy commandos, then," Seira muses.
[22:31] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> A few hours pass as you ride forward. You ride at a good pace, covering the ground swiftly. The clouds continue to rolli in from the north, the sun obscured. Pollyanna leads on, "We're about a half hour from where they should roughly be. We start looking for an advantage point to ambush them."
06[22:32] * Demedais nods slightly, beginning to scan around the group for such a place.
06[22:33] * Seira looks for favorable terrain as well.
06[22:33] * Alicia simply defers to the experts and keeps her head down.
[22:37] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> OOC - Spot checks.
[22:37] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 okgo
06[22:37] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 okgo and gets 25."12 [1d20=14]
[22:37] <Alicia> roll 1d20+1 if mine matters
06[22:37] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+1 if mine matters and gets 19."12 [1d20=18]
01[22:38] <Seira> roll 1d20+2 I think I'm aiding Deme
06[22:38] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+2 I think I'm aiding Deme and gets 17."12 [1d20=15]

[Corwin]

[20:07] <Alicia> [20:22] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> "None at all," Pollyanna agrees, "You're far better than the average soldier anyway."
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:24] <Seira> "Well, let's go bait us some enemy commandos, then," Seira muses.
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:32] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> A few hours pass as you ride forward. You ride at a good pace, covering the ground swiftly. The clouds continue to rolli in from the north, the sun obscured. Pollyanna leads on, "We're about a half hour from where they should roughly be. We start looking for an advantage point to ambush them."
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:33] * Demedais nods slightly, beginning to scan around the group for such a place.
03[20:07] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:33] * Seira looks for favorable terrain as well.
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:34] * Alicia simply defers to the experts and keeps her head down.
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:37] <Infinite_Uguu_Loop> OOC - Spot checks.
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:37] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 okgo
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:37] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 okgo and gets 25."12 [1d20=14]
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:37] <Alicia> roll 1d20+1 if mine matters
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:38] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+1 if mine matters and gets 19."12 [1d20=18]
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:38] <Seira> roll 1d20+2 I think I'm aiding Deme
[20:07] <Alicia> [20:38] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+2 I think I'm aiding Deme and gets 17."12 [1d20=15]
[20:09] <Kotono> The soldiers and company look about! Demedais is on the ball, quickly noting a little hill. It's only about ten feet up, but it's something to hide behind. "That should do," Pollyanna points as the skies shift grayer, the clouds heavy above.  "We'll stash the horses on the base and be kneeling down behind the hill. When I give the word, open fire with all you have."
[20:09] <Kotono> Starting to go over, "Whenever we encounter, anyway."
06[20:10] * Demedais nods slightly at this.
06[20:10] * Seira takes her own place, using the altitude for what it's worth.
06[20:11] * Alicia takes cover just behind the rise of the hill, adjusting the colour of her cloak to blend in with the surrounding foliage.
06[20:12] * Demedais sticks around Pollyanna, not used to these tactics and thus following the lead of others.
[20:15] <Kotono> Pollyanna perches near the top, the mundane soldiers using the cover more extensively. "Just wait...whatever you do, don't rise up. All it takes is one sharp set of eyes," she orders back. Time slips by - a half hour, the skies starting to drizzle down rain. Off and on splurts, currently stopped as at last, "Theyre' coming," Pollyanna squints ahead, "I see something on the horizon."
06[20:16] * Alicia looks in the same direction as Pollyanna, but mostly relies on the trained scout to let her know what's coming their way.
06[20:17] * Demedais keeps down, relying on Pollyanna to keep him notified.
06[20:17] * Seira prepares to cast Shield upon herself when Pollyanna announces that they're about to come within range.
[20:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[20:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 14."12 [1d20=6]
[20:20] <Kotono> Peering ahead, one can catch glimpses of blue shirted soldiers on horses. "About two dozen on horses." Pollyanna waits a few, "Okay...light armor, spears and bows...two hundred feet away." Whispering back, "It's just a scouting group and a small one. With surprise it may not even be a matter of hit and run, since I don't see any support units immediately behind them."
06[20:21] * Alicia casts shield on herself. "Remember, they probably have reinforcements ready," she warns, waiting till Pollyanna gives the word before she attacks.
06[20:21] * Demedais nods slightly at this, bow at his side but simply waiting for the word.
06[20:21] * Seira casts Message on them all, to avoid any need to actually speak and give away their position by any chance as the scouting group would come closer. And then, of course, her Shield.
[20:22] <Kotono> Pollyanna readies her own bow, as the soldiers behind do th esame. "At 150 feet away," she whispers back. "Be ready."
06[20:26] * Seira notches an arrow.
[20:26] <Kotono> "Now!" Pollyanna calls, "Rise up and attack!"
[20:27] <Kotono> Pollyanna smoothly stands up, hands working as a flurry of arrows comes flying!
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
06[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 27."12 [1d20=18]
06[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 15."12 [1d20=6]
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
06[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 15."12 [1d20=11]
06[20:27] * Seira rises silently, much like a shadow, seeking out her pray!
06[20:27] * Demedais rises and lets loose two arrows at one of the approaching soldiers!
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d8+4+1d6
06[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+4+1d6 and gets 11."12 [1d8=2][1d6=5]
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d8+4+1d6
06[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+4+1d6 and gets 15."12 [1d8=8][1d6=3]
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d8+4+1d6
06[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+4+1d6 and gets 16."12 [1d8=8][1d6=4]
[20:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+12 snipe?
06[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+12 snipe? and gets 20."12 [1d20=8]
[20:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 snipe?
06[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 snipe? and gets 9."12 [1d20=2]
06[20:28] * Alicia stands up and quickly looses off a pair of arrows at the leader of this group!
[20:28] <Alicia> roll 1d20+11 (-2 if past 120 feet)
06[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+11 (-2 if past 120 feet) and gets 28."12 [1d20=17]
[20:28] <Alicia> roll 1d20+6 (-2 if past 120 feet)
06[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+6 (-2 if past 120 feet) and gets 16."12 [1d20=10]
[20:28] <Kotono> OOC - One hit, Deme and Alicia.
[20:28] <Demedais> OOC: ...right. Does mine still hit on 18?
[20:29] <Kotono> OOC - Yes.
01[20:29] <Seira> roll 1d20+10
06[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+10 and gets 12."12 [1d20=2]
01[20:29] <Seira> roll 1d20+5
06[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+5 and gets 14."12 [1d20=9]
[20:29] <Alicia> roll 1d6 damage
06[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d6 damage and gets 2."12 [1d6=2]
[20:29] <Demedais> roll 1d8+1 rightyo, then.
06[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d8+1 rightyo, then. and gets 3."12 [1d8=2]
03[20:31] * Alicia is now known as Ebiris
03[20:33] * Kotono is now known as Ko-brb
[20:36] <Ebiris> roll 1d6 since I just noticed Dune say I got two hits
06[20:36] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 since I just noticed Dune say I got two hits and gets 5."12 [1d6=5]

[Corwin]

[16:41] <Alicia> [18:27] * Alicia stands up and quickly looses off a pair of arrows at the leader of this group!
[16:41] <Alicia> [18:27] <Alicia> roll 1d20+11 (-2 if past 120 feet)
[16:41] <Alicia> [18:27] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+11 (-2 if past 120 feet) and gets 28."12 [1d20=17]
[16:41] <Alicia> [18:27] <Alicia> roll 1d20+6 (-2 if past 120 feet)
[16:41] <Alicia> [18:27] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+6 (-2 if past 120 feet) and gets 16."12 [1d20=10]
[16:41] <Alicia> [18:27] <Kotono> OOC - One hit, Deme and Alicia.
[16:41] <Alicia> [18:27] <Demedais> OOC: ...right. Does mine still hit on 18?
[16:41] <Alicia> [18:28] <Kotono> OOC - Yes.
[16:41] <Alicia> [18:28] <Seira> roll 1d20+10
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:28] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+10 and gets 12."12 [1d20=2]
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:28] <Seira> roll 1d20+5
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:28] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+5 and gets 14."12 [1d20=9]
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:28] <Alicia> roll 1d6 damage
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:28] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d6 damage and gets 2."12 [1d6=2]
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:28] <Demedais> roll 1d8+1 rightyo, then.
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d8+1 rightyo, then. and gets 3."12 [1d8=2]
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:30] * Alicia is now known as Ebiris
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:32] * Kotono is now known as Ko-brb
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:35] <Ebiris> roll 1d6 since I just noticed Dune say I got two hits
[16:42] <Alicia> [18:35] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d6 since I just noticed Dune say I got two hits and gets 5."12 [1d6=5]
[16:45] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 7#d1d20+4
06[16:45] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 7#d1d20+4 and gets 87."12 [7#d1d20+4 = 18, 18, 5, 16, 19, 5, 6]
[16:45] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 4#1d8+1
06[16:45] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 4#1d8+1 and gets 23."12 [4#1d8+1 = 4, 7, 3, 9]
[16:48] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> In the flurry of arrows six of the Malmuthian go down, the contingent caught off guard! Chaos spreads as the men fall, soldiers trying ot react! OOC - Initiative.
01[16:48] <Seira> roll 1d20+5
[16:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+4
06[16:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+4 and gets 13."12 [1d20=9]
06[16:48] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+5 and gets 25."12 [1d20=20]
[16:48] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
06[16:48] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 and gets 16."12 [1d20=15]
[16:48] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+7
06[16:48] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+7 and gets 12."12 [1d20=5]
[16:48] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+1 group soldiers on your side
06[16:48] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+1 group soldiers on your side and gets 3."12 [1d20=2]
[16:49] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+1 enemy soldiers
06[16:49] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+1 enemy soldiers and gets 12."12 [1d20=11]
03[16:49] * Infinite_Ko_Loop changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Seira>Demedais>Alicia>Pollyanna=Enemy Soldiers(18)>Ally soldiers'
06[16:51] * Seira fully intends to continue showering the enemy soldiers with arrows until Pollyanna calls for a retreat, so that's what she does!
01[16:51] <Seira> roll 1d20+12
06[16:51] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 and gets 32."12 [1d20=20]
01[16:51] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 laf
06[16:51] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 laf and gets 26."12 [1d20=14]
[16:51] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Critical hit.
01[16:51] <Seira> roll 3d8+3 that's a crit!
06[16:51] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 3d8+3 that's a crit! and gets 19."12 [3d8=2, 7, 7]
01[16:51] <Seira> roll 1d20+7
06[16:51] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+7 and gets 24."12 [1d20=17]
01[16:51] <Seira> roll 1d8+1 that's not!
06[16:51] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d8+1 that's not! and gets 4."12 [1d8=3]
03[16:52] * Infinite_Ko_Loop changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Seira>Demedais>Alicia>Pollyanna=Enemy Soldiers(17)>Ally soldiers'
[16:53] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Arrows flying, one gets a Malmuthian scum in the throat! He chokes and goes down, body dead before he touches the earth!  His horse bucks back, freed of it's rider! A second arrow goes into the leg of a soldier a bit to the left, impaling his leg and lightly scraping it's mount's skin! OOC - DEme.
06[16:53] * Demedais looses two more arrows, one at the Malmuthian he previously wounded, and one at the Malmuthian Seira just wounded!
[16:54] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 (-2 range)
06[16:54] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+10 (-2 range) and gets 29."12 [1d20=19]
[16:54] <Demedais> roll 1d8+1 I think I can safely say that hits? (Not a crit)
06[16:54] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d8+1 I think I can safely say that hits? (Not a crit) and gets 8."12 [1d8=7]
[16:54] <Demedais> roll 1d20+5 (-2 range)
06[16:54] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+5 (-2 range) and gets 16."12 [1d20=11]
[16:54] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - It's down. Make your second shot.
[16:54] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Bare hit.
[16:54] <Demedais> roll 1d8+1  heh.
06[16:54] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d8+1 heh. and gets 3."12 [1d8=2]
03[16:55] * Infinite_Ko_Loop changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Seira>Demedais>Alicia>Pollyanna=Enemy Soldiers(15)>Ally soldiers'
06[16:55] * Alicia splits her attention, firing one arrow at the soldier wounded by Seira and following it up with one at the person just hit by Demedais a second earlier.
[16:55] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Firing at the wounded soldiers, Demedais picks off two more! They crumple down, one falling back on his horse's rear, the other going head down to the ground! The soldiers cry out, the leader pulling his horse back. "Ambush!" he calls. OOC - 'licia.
[16:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+11
06[16:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+11 and gets 27."12 [1d20=16]
[16:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+6
06[16:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+6 and gets 15."12 [1d20=9]
[16:56] <Alicia> roll 1d6
06[16:56] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."12 [1d6=1]
[16:56] <Alicia> OOC: wait, hitting the one Deme just wounded since he killed the one Seira wounded.
[16:57] <Alicia> OOC: hell, just hit someone at random
[16:57] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Alicia gets one arrow off successfully, grazing a soldier but doing little relative harm and missing a serious blow! Pollyanna readies her arrows once more, "Don't get too ground in - we won't be sticking around long enough to let them get close." But as she does that, flaming arrows fire from her bow!
[16:58] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+9
06[16:58] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+9 and gets 20."12 [1d20=11]
[16:58] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+9
06[16:58] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+9 and gets 13."12 [1d20=4]
[16:58] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+4
06[16:58] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+4 and gets 12."12 [1d20=8]
[16:58] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d8+4+1d6
06[16:58] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d8+4+1d6 and gets 11."12 [1d8=6][1d6=1]
03[16:58] * Infinite_Ko_Loop changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Seira>Demedais>Alicia>Pollyanna=Enemy Soldiers(14)>Ally soldiers'
02[17:04] * Demedais (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) Quit (sebben.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
02[17:04] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@cpe-70-112-23-198.austin.res.rr.com) Quit (sebben.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
02[17:04] * Infinite_Ko_Loop (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) Quit (sebben.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
03[17:13] * Taishyr (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) has joined #dunes
03[17:13] * Misukibot (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) has joined #dunes
03[17:13] * Misukibot is now known as Anastasia
03[17:13] * Alicia sets mode: +o Anastasia
03[17:13] * Alicia sets mode: +o Taishyr
[17:14] <Anastasia> > AS another hapless soldier goes down, a burning arrow in his eyesocket, "We're being massacred!" The leader calls, "Defensive formation 3!" So he calls, the riders rearing back! They turn away, soldiers ducking low on their horses as they gallop off! As they do, the rank and file soldiers fire arrows at their retreat!
[17:14] <Anastasia> > roll 7#1d20+2
[17:14] <Anastasia> * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 7#1d20+2 and gets 74." [7#1d20+2 = 11, 8, 6, 17, 15, 3, 14]
[17:14] <Anastasia> * Olorin (~OlorinThe@72-160-127-31.dyn.centurytel.net) Quit (thundarr.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
[17:14] <Anastasia> * NeremWorld (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (thundarr.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
[17:14] <Anastasia> * Alicia (WinNT@user-5442d608.lns2-c8.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (thundarr.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
[17:14] <Anastasia> * Seira (~corwin@bzq-79-180-45-244.red.bezeqint.net) Quit (thundarr.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
[17:14] <Anastasia> * Hotaru (~draomir@75-161-141-227.mpls.qwest.net) Quit (thundarr.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
[17:14] <Anastasia> * Devourlord_Sierra (~Melanchth@pool-71-178-116-12.washdc.east.verizon.net) Quit (thundarr.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
[17:14] <Anastasia> * Gate-weekend (WinNT@c-69-181-167-16.hsd1.ca.comcast.net) Quit (thundarr.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
[17:14] <Anastasia> > roll 2#1d8+1
[17:14] <Anastasia> * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 2#1d8+1 and gets 13." [2#1d8+1 = 6, 7]
[17:14] <Anastasia> * Demedais (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) Quit (asdfgfdsa)
03[17:14] * Anastasia changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Seira>Demedais>Alicia>Pollyanna=Enemy Soldiers(13)>Ally soldiers'
[17:15] <Anastasia> Another soldier goes down, crumpling down from his second arrow! Another is greviously wounded, but the soldiers retreat back 100 feet! OOC - Seira.
01[17:15] <Seira> The leader thinks he can flee. Seira tries to see if she can change his mind!
01[17:15] <Seira> roll 1d20+10
[17:15] <Anastasia> Seira rolled 1d20+10 --> [ 1d20=6 ]{16}
01[17:15] <Seira> roll 1d20+5
[17:15] <Anastasia> Seira rolled 1d20+5 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{14}
[17:16] <Anastasia> OOC - One hit.
01[17:16] <Seira> roll 1d8+1
[17:16] <Anastasia> Seira rolled 1d8+1 --> [ 1d8=1 ]{2}
[17:18] <Anastasia> Seira fires off as the soldiers fall back. One arrow flies true, a grazing wound at far distance to the leader! "They're retreating, try to take af ew more down while watching our flanks," Pollyanna calls. OOC - Deme.
06[17:19] * Taishyr nods at this to Pollyanna and looses two more arrows to try and assist Seira's cause!
[17:19] <Taishyr> roll 1d20+8 (-4 range)
[17:19] <Anastasia> Taishyr rolled 1d20+8 (-4 range) --> [ 1d20=5 ]{13}
[17:19] <Taishyr> roll 1d20+3 (-4 range)
[17:19] <Anastasia> Taishyr rolled 1d20+3 (-4 range) --> [ 1d20=2 ]{5}
[17:20] <Anastasia> Demedais fires a few more arrows, but the distance is too much to score any hits! OOC - Alicia.
03[17:20] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[17:20] <Alicia> At this range Alicia's ability to target with a shortbow is rather limited, but she doesn't want to give the game away by using magic, and so merely fires a set of arrows in the rough direction of the retreating soldiers, more hope than anything behind whether they hit.
[17:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7
[17:21] <Anastasia> Alicia rolled 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{16}
[17:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+2
[17:21] <Anastasia> Alicia rolled 1d20+2 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{11}
[17:21] <Alicia> roll 1d6
[17:21] <Anastasia> Alicia rolled 1d6 --> [ 1d6=5 ]{5}
[17:21] <Anastasia> Alicia plunks another soldier, a decent wound guessed at from this range! It doesn't quite down him, however, as Pollyanna glances about. Her eyes sweep the sides, before loosing off a few more arrows.
[17:22] <Anastasia> roll 1d20+7 (Forgot to add range mods to her last time.)
03[17:23] * Infinite_Ko_Loop (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) has joined #dunes
03[17:23] * Rei-chan (Rei-chan@user-5442d608.lns2-c8.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
03[17:23] * Infinite_Ko_Loop is now known as Kotono
03[17:23] * Rei-chan (Rei-chan@user-5442d608.lns2-c8.dsl.pol.co.uk) has left #dunes
03[17:23] * Alicia sets mode: +o Kotono
02[17:23] * Anastasia (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) Quit
[17:24] <Alicia> [15:21] <Alicia> At this range Alicia's ability to target with a shortbow is rather limited, but she doesn't want to give the game away by using magic, and so merely fires a set of arrows in the rough direction of the retreating soldiers, more hope than anything behind whether they hit.
[17:24] <Alicia> [15:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7
[17:24] <Alicia> [15:21] <Anastasia> Alicia rolled 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{16}
[17:24] <Alicia> [15:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+2
[17:24] <Alicia> [15:21] <Anastasia> Alicia rolled 1d20+2 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{11}
[17:24] <Alicia> [15:21] <Alicia> roll 1d6
[17:24] <Alicia> [15:21] <Anastasia> Alicia rolled 1d6 --> [ 1d6=5 ]{5}
[17:24] <Alicia> [15:22] <Anastasia> Alicia plunks another soldier, a decent wound guessed at from this range! It doesn't quite down him, however, as Pollyanna glances about. Her eyes sweep the sides, before loosing off a few more arrows.
[17:24] <Alicia> [15:22] <Anastasia> roll 1d20+7 (Forgot to add range mods to her last time.)
03[17:24] * Rei-chan (Rei-chan@user-5442d608.lns2-c8.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
03[17:25] * Alicia sets mode: +v Rei-chan
[17:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[17:25] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+7 --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{12}
[17:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[17:25] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{12}
[17:26] <Kotono> Neither flaming arrow finds a hit, like a glowing red bolt in the gray clad sky as they miss! Meanwhile, the soldiers retreat back another one hundred feet. At this point, "Alright, stop fire," Pollyanna says, "We've done enough now." Lowering her voice then, using Message, "Is that what you three wanted?"
[17:27] <Alicia> "No sense pushing our luck," Alicia reasons. "No sign of this supposed ambush, though - perhaps they intend to catch us on our way back to Balmuria?"
[17:28] <Demedais> "Hopefully, yes." Demedais muses. "But... Alicia has a point..."
01[17:28] <Seira> "The leader got away," Seira responds quietly in disappointment. "What would you do after an ambush like this, Pollyanna? We should follow the exact same pattern."
[17:29] <Kotono> "Normally we'd fall back in an irregular pattern to deter pursuit." Pollyanna's gaze sweeps about, over the left behind bodies and dying men. "Ordering us to linger around would probably beg Malmuth to send a followup. Otherwise, we can just follow and see if they're serious about that ambush."
[17:30] <Alicia> "I don't think we should break from our usual routine, otherwise they might suspect we have a trick of our own," Alicia replies. "Fall back, then?"
06[17:30] * Seira nods.
[17:31] <Demedais> "Indeed. Let's go."
[17:32] <Kotono> "Alright, time to go home," Pollyanna orders, raising her voice. She leads the group sharply towards the northeast first, making distance. "Everyone, keep your eyes open." OOC - Everyone, make spot checks.
[17:32] <Alicia> roll 1d20+1
[17:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+1 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{15}
01[17:32] <Seira> roll 1d20+2
[17:32] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
[17:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{8}
[17:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+8 --> 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{26}
[17:32] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11
[17:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+11 --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{30}
[17:35] <Kotono> After about a half hour of zig zagging, Pollyanna lowers her head and slightly drops back, to be in range of the three heroes. "Something's kicking up dust well behind us. We're being followed."
[17:36] <Alicia> "Should we prepare an ambush for them?" Alicia wonders. "If we find a spot of cover, some of us could dismount and lay in wait for our pursuers to catch up, then flank them as they attack those of us still mounted?"
[17:36] <Demedais> "Hahaha... Either that's an aerial attack on Balmuria or on us, and I'm willing to think the latter." Demedais says, looking back down, and then to Pollyanna. "Both behind us and above us? Now I'm intrigued. Keep going as if we didn't spot them, or...?"
[17:37] <Alicia> "In the air as well? Hippogriffs?" Alicia asks Demedais as she scans the skies.
06[17:37] * Demedais coughs. "To clarify, we have a group of five on hippogriff above us."
01[17:38] <Seira> "How far is either group?"
[17:39] <Demedais> "The flyers are... three hundred or so feet above us?" Demedais notes.
06[17:39] * Alicia looks straight up.
01[17:40] <Seira> "Let's shoot the griffs and see what happens!" Seira suggests.
[17:41] <Demedais> "One option. However, doing so may ruin our chances to grab Pallan if he's among the ground pursuers and spots this." Demedais considers.
01[17:42] <Seira> "Not if we use the bows normally."
[17:44] <Demedais> "Would such an attack normally even be spotted? Besides, they may be counting on the element of air ambush."
06[17:46] * Seira coughs. "Whatever the case, we don't really want them to attack the city. And if they attempt to flee we could always go all out. What about the other group, though? How far back is it?"
[17:46] <Demedais> "True."
[17:49] <Kotono> "At least a few hundred feet back, all I'm seeing is kicked up dust," Pollyanna whispers back, as the paryt looks skyward. The hippogriffs are nearly directly overhead, three hundred feet up. They half blend into the gray sky, evading all but the sharpest looks.
01[17:50] <Seira> "Let's take them out, and use magic if either group flees to catch up to them," Seira decides. "Is there a decent position nearby to attack them from?"
[17:51] <Alicia> "I think we should refrain from magic unless we actually get into trouble or see Pallan himself," Alicia suggests. "No sense tipping our hand too early."
01[17:51] <Seira> "Pretty much," Seira agrees. "But we shouldn't let them get away, either."
06[17:52] * Demedais nods once.
[17:52] <Kotono> "Tell me when - I'll need to order the soldiers then," Pollyanna whispers.
[17:52] <Alicia> "My bow's useless at these ranges, I'll just keep ready for when they're close enough to melee," Alicia states, watching their backs.
01[17:52] <Seira> "Aim for the hippogriffs," Seira tells Pollyanna. "On my mark. One, two--"
06[17:54] * Alicia casts Shield once again in readiness for battle.
01[17:54] <Seira> Alicia's idea is decent enough, and Seira likewise recasts the Shield before aiming at one of the steeds.
[17:57] <Kotono> OOC - Let's do initiatives here for organizational sakes and since two of you buffed. Deme, are you doing anything beforehand?
01[17:57] <Seira> roll 1d20+5 init!~
[17:57] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+5 1,0init!~ --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{8}
[17:58] <Alicia> roll 1d20+4
[17:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{7}
[17:58] <Demedais> OOC: Nah.
[17:58] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 kay
[17:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+1 1,0kay --> 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{12}
[17:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[17:59] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+7 --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{27}
[17:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 group hippos
[17:59] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0group hippos --> 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{4}
[17:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 ?????
[17:59] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0????? --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{14}
[17:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10 ?????
[17:59] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+10 1,0????? --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{26}
03[18:01] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Polly>???2>???1>Demedais?!>Seira>Alicia>Hippogriff fliers'
[18:03] <Kotono> roll 1d20+1
[18:03] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+1 --> 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{14}
03[18:03] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Polly>???2>???1=Ally Soldiers>Demedais?!>Seira>Alicia>Hippogriff fliers'
[18:04] <Kotono> Pollyanna raises her voice, "Eyes and arrows to the sky," she says as her horse stops, looking upward! Despite the distance she fires off two arrows to the high sky above!
[18:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[18:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+5 --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{17}
[18:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[18:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{10}
[18:04] <Kotono> roll 1d8+4+1d6+1d6
[18:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d8+4+1d6+1d6 --> 6,0[ 1d8=2 1d6=5 1d6=4 ]4,0{15}
[18:06] <Kotono> A burning arrow stabs into the belly of one of the five hippogriffs, making it quail in the air! The hippogriffs carry heavy sacks full of ceramic vials, the riders getting them ready! Meanwhile, in the distance, the dust being kicked up solidifies. You can see a contingent of Malmuthian soldiers advancing, a gray cloaked, hidden man riding in the back! OOC - Allied soldiers are up.
[18:06] <Kotono> The soldiers take those orders, firing up into the sky!
[18:06] <Kotono> roll 7#1d20-2
[18:06] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 7#1d20-2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{18}, 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{8}, 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{4}, 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{17}, 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{12}, 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{3}, 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{7}
[18:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20-2 crit check
[18:06] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20-2 1,0crit check --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{17}
[18:06] <Kotono> roll 2d8+2
[18:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 2d8+2 --> 6,0[ 2d8=10 ]4,0{12}
[18:07] <Kotono> roll 1d8+1
[18:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d8+1 --> 6,0[ 1d8=2 ]4,0{3}
[18:08] <Kotono> One arrow flies like a divinely guided missive, impaling the already wounded hippogriff! It's body quails and starts to plummet, it's rider frantically shaking it's bleeding form! Gushes of red rain down on the plains as it falls...!
[18:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20 high is bad for you guys
[18:08] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0high is bad for you guys --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{8}
[18:10] <Kotono> With a CRASH it lands behind the part, bursting into flames! A pyre is at your back now, bits of ceramic sharpnel flying! Another arrow lightly wounds a 'griff as well! OOC - Demedais.
[18:12] <Demedais> "I suppose there's the problem of 'they're carrying explosives' as well to handle, but frankly better to kill them now then before they can aim said explosives..." Demedais muses, loosing two arrows toward the wounded one!
[18:13] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 aiming for injured
[18:13] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+8 1,0aiming for injured --> 6,0[ 1d20=15 ]4,0{23}
[18:14] <Demedais> roll 1d8+1 kay
[18:14] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d8+1 1,0kay --> 6,0[ 1d8=7 ]4,0{8}
[18:15] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3 If that doesn't kill, this aims for it; otherwise hit another hippogriff.
[18:15] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+3 1,0If that doesn't kill, this aims for it; otherwise hit another hippogriff. --> 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{14}
[18:16] <Kotono> One arrow flies up, hitting the wounded hippogriff! It lives on, the two arrows it's taken not enough to slay it! OOC - Seira.
06[18:16] * Seira targets the wounded hippogriff with a nod at Demedais, eager to take as many of them down as possible!
01[18:16] <Seira> roll 1d20+5 (-4 for distance, -3 for PA)
[18:16] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+5 1,0(-4 for distance, -3 for PA) --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{8}
01[18:16] <Seira> roll 1d20 ditto
[18:16] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0ditto --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{14}
03[18:17] * Devourlord_Sierra is now known as Sierra_Mikain
[18:18] <Kotono> OOC - Second hits them flatfooted.
01[18:18] <Seira> roll 1d8+7 Deme hit, too, then!
[18:18] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d8+7 1,0Deme hit, too, then! --> 6,0[ 1d8=2 ]4,0{9}
[18:19] <Demedais> roll 1d8+1 okay?
[18:19] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d8+1 1,0okay? --> 6,0[ 1d8=1 ]4,0{2}
[18:20] <Kotono> Two moare arrows are shot, as Deme's second arrow alsof inally lands! The two hits greviously wounds the hippogriff, it's blood raining down but it lives on! OOC - Alicia.
[18:20] <Alicia> OOC: estimated time till the Malmuthians on the ground reach us?
[18:20] <Kotono> OOC - Couple of rounds. They're 200 ft away now and on horse.
06[18:23] * Alicia decides to do something to slow down the approaching Malmuthians, tugging her hood down further over her head, she glances back and subtly gestures in the direction of the blazing hippogriff corpse, conjuring forth a series of caltrops spaced apart on the grassy ground to force anyone coming directly at them to go over them and risk injury.
[18:23] <Alicia> OOC: Caltrops hit at +4 for anyone walking over them, which does one damage and forces a charging or running creature to stop moving, and halves their speed till they get healed. Ignores armour bonuses to AC but wearing shoes does give a +2 AC bonus.
[18:23] <Alicia> OOC: 5 squares filled, I've spaced them one apart, 3 on one side and 2 on the other (horses are large so they can't move between them)
[18:23] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[18:27] <Kotono> Caltrops appear at Alicia's mystical command, a defensive barrier between them and the horses! Meanwhile, the hippogriffs above reach over the party, dropping two ceramic jars each downward!
02[18:27] * Demedais (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
[18:27] <Kotono> roll 8#1d20-4
[18:27] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 8#1d20-4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{15}, 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{7}, 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{10}, 6,0[ 1d20=17 ]4,0{13}, 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{1}, 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{4}, 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{5}, 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{16}
03[18:27] * Taishyr (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) has joined #dunes
[18:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20-4 crit check
[18:27] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20-4 1,0crit check --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{-1}
03[18:27] * Alicia sets mode: +o Taishyr
[18:28] <Kotono> OOC: What are your touch ACs, people?
[18:28] <Alicia> OOC: 14
01[18:28] <Seira> OOC: 17
[18:28] <Taishyr> OOC: 13.
03[18:28] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[18:29] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[18:29] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[18:29] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[18:29] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d6 --> 6,0[ 1d6=4 ]4,0{4}
[18:29] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d6 --> 6,0[ 1d6=6 ]4,0{6}
[18:29] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d6 --> 6,0[ 1d6=3 ]4,0{3}
[18:29] <Alicia> OOC: wait!
[18:30] <Alicia> Alicia casts feather fall as soon as the jars begin to fall down above them, slowing their descent to prevent injury!
[18:30] <Alicia> OOC: I can slow up to 10 objects
[18:30] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[18:31] <Kotono> The jars plummet downward, two well aimed in particular - one at Pollyanna and one at Demedais! But Alicia's immediate magic intervenes, the jars falling at a sedate rate down! They land without incident, sitting on the battlefield all about! OOC - Polly is up.
01[18:32] <Seira> "Hit a fresh hippogriff," Seira tells Pollyanna. "Demedais and I will do something about the wounded one!"
[18:32] <Kotono> Pollyanna glances to the sides, then in Message, "Is that them?" she asks, as she looses two more arrows at a new hippogriff!
[18:32] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[18:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+5 --> 6,0[ 1d20=17 ]4,0{22}
03[18:32] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@cpe-70-112-23-198.austin.res.rr.com) has joined #dunes
03[18:32] * thundarr.dejatoons.net sets mode: +v Hatbot
[18:32] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[18:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20 --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{16}
[18:32] <Kotono> roll 1d8+4+1d6
[18:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d8+4+1d6 --> 6,0[ 1d8=3 1d6=4 ]4,0{11}
[18:32] <Kotono> roll 1d8+4+1d6
[18:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d8+4+1d6 --> 6,0[ 1d8=8 1d6=1 ]4,0{13}
03[18:32] * Kotono sets mode: -v Hatbot
[18:33] <Kotono> The third hippogriff gets two arrows in the belly and leg, shaking but somehow clinging onto life! Meanwhile, the soldiers continue to approach! One hundred feet away, still ahead of the blazing hippogriff and the caltrops. OOC - Allied soldiers are up.
[18:34] <Kotono> The soldiers follow orders, firing upwards towards your tormentors!
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20-2
[18:34] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20-2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{17}
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 6#1d20-2
[18:34] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 6#1d20-2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{11}, 6,0[ 1d20=15 ]4,0{13}, 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{14}, 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{0}, 6,0[ 1d20=1 ]4,0{-1}, 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{1}
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 1d8+1
[18:34] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d8+1 --> 6,0[ 1d8=1 ]4,0{2}
[18:35] <Kotono> The soldiers aren't the best this round, but one arrow reaches the one Pollyanna critically hurt! IT lets out a deathwail and plummets down!
[18:35] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[18:35] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20 --> 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{11}
[18:35] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[18:35] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{22}
[18:35] <Kotono> roll 3d6
[18:35] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 3d6 --> 6,0[ 3d6=16 ]4,0{16}
[18:36] <Kotono> This griff lands to the side, near to the farthest left soldier! A few splashes of fire land on him! Yet his reflexes are stunningly quick, his arm going up! He burns and screams in pain, but he's still somewhoat upright! Somehow! OOC - Deme.
[18:38] <Demedais> "Pull back a bit!" Demedais barks to the soldier, before aiming at the one he injured with two more arrows. "No use falling here, for more is yet to come!"
[18:38] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 deme motivational speeches rock.
[18:38] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+8 1,0deme motivational speeches rock. --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{11}
[18:38] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3
[18:38] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{12}
03[18:40] * Sierra_Mikain is now known as Sierra_InaDeepForest
[18:43] <Kotono> Demedais fires off two more arrows, but both miss! The soldier is on fire from the alchemist's brew, burning merrily but alive for now! OOC - Seira.
06[18:44] * Seira tries to stay on her own target, fairly unconcerned over falling hippogriffs or fire. "Yes," she comments to the soldiers, "do get out of range of the dropping alchemical bombs."
01[18:44] <Seira> roll 1d20+8 wounded griff
[18:44] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+8 1,0wounded griff --> 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{26}
01[18:44] <Seira> roll 1d8+1 die
[18:44] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d8+1 1,0die --> 6,0[ 1d8=1 ]4,0{2}
[18:44] <Kotono> OOC - It clings to life still. Epic.
01[18:44] <Seira> roll 1d20+3 unfair
[18:44] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+3 1,0unfair --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{13}
[18:45] <Kotono> Seira fires as well, managing one hit! The second griff is on the very verge of death, somehow lingering just like the burning soldier below! OOC - Alicia.
06[18:46] * Alicia is distracted from their pursuers by the screams of one of their men, and quickly rounds her horse to pull up alongside him, ignoring the flames herself as she presses a hand against his chest to mend his flesh. "Roll on the ground to put it out!" she tells him urgently, at least giving him enough time to do just that with her healing.
[18:46] <Alicia> OOC: 8hp lay on hands gets him full, right?
[18:46] <Kotono> OOC - Yeah.
[18:48] <Kotono> His suffering lessens on Alicia's touch, his pain scarred face looking to her. "Yes m-ma'am!" He agrees to that quickly! Alicia's hand is lightly burned by the fire on him as she heals, , but nonetheless saves his life for now! OOC - Fliers are up.
06[18:48] * Alicia flexes her hand a little bit in faint pain as she pulls it back, but tries to ignore it. She's had worse.
[18:49] <Kotono> The three remaining hippogriffs aren't stopping! Instead they continue to fire downward, six vials thrown this time!
[18:50] <Alicia> Alicia repeats her previous trick, waiting till just before impact to arrest the fall of the ceramic vials without harm!
[18:50] <Kotono> More vials land safely down, the entire battlefield a pottery littered field now! Meanwhile, Pollyanna turns and starts working on another overhead griffon. "Soldiers, don't let them get our flank any closer," she commands, while still working on the air!
[18:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[18:50] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+5 --> 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{14}
[18:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+0
[18:50] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+0 --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{12}
[18:51] <Kotono> Neither arrow finds a home this time, however, fired up and missing, coming to a landing hundreds of feet away! OOC - ????es are up.
03[18:52] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Polly>Gray cloaked man>Enemy ground troops=Ally Soldiers>Demedais?!>Seira>Alicia>Hippogriff fliers'
[18:54] <Kotono> "...now," The hooded man whispers, looking up! Pallan's eyes go to the party, as...A column of power comes down! It's like Claris' Flame Strike, but instead of fire, acid fills the radius! IT strikes down at Pollyanna!
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[18:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+7 --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{10}
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 9d6
[18:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 9d6 --> 6,0[ 9d6=26 ]4,0{26}
[18:55] <Kotono> Pollyanna is consumed in this power, acid eating at her clothes, her flesh, her mount! Caught in it, her warhorse can do nothing but die, Pollyanna tossed to the ground!
[18:55] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[18:55] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d6 --> 6,0[ 1d6=5 ]4,0{5}
[18:56] <Kotono> Pollyanna landson her knees, gasping out in pain! She lives yet, calling, "I'm not down! Get them," she commands!
[18:57] <Kotono> Meanwhile, the other men go! There are 12 of them - 8 advance ahead, while the other four? (More)
03[18:59] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Polly>Gray cloaked man>Golden Eagle=Enemy ground troops=Ally Soldiers>Demedais?!>Seira>Alicia>Hippogriff fliers'
[19:00] <Kotono> One stops and points at Seira! A golden eagle appears 35 feet away and closes the rest of the distance towards Seira, beak out as it darts at her!
[19:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[19:00] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+5 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{15}
01[19:00] <Seira> OOC: Miss
[19:01] <Kotono> It's attack is harrying but fails to land a hit! The secone waves his hands, waves of glittering golden dust enveloping the party! OOC - Will saves.
[19:01] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18 don't 1
[19:01] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+18 1,0don't 1 --> 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{27}
[19:02] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 blaaaar
[19:02] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+11 1,0blaaaar --> 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{29}
01[19:02] <Seira> roll 1d20+7
[19:02] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:02] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{6}
[19:02] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+7 --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{19}
[19:03] <Kotono> The burst targets the intrepid heroes of the party! While all three of them resist it, Pollyanna finds her eyes clouded by golden dust! Meanwhile, the third breaks into a mess of images!
[19:04] <Kotono> roll 1d4+1
[19:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d4+1 --> 6,0[ 1d4=1 ]4,0{2}
[19:05] <Kotono> The last seems to do something, but you can't tell what! Meanwhile, the other eight charge and reach the caltrops! OOC - Alicia, roll for those?
[19:06] <Alicia> roll 8#1d20+4
[19:06] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 8#1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{10}, 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{23}, 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{23}, 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{7}, 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{16}, 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{22}, 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{8}, 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{10}
[19:06] <Alicia> OOC: 4 get their charges stopped cold
[19:06] <Kotono> OOC - The 16 and aboves hit.
01[19:07] <Seira> "I'm thinking... Demedais, help Pollyanna, while I fry most of those losers? Alicia could try to take out their leader. The rest retreat and keep on firing at the hippogriffs, particularly at the wounded beast."
[19:07] <Alicia> "Works," Alicia agrees tersely.
[19:08] <Kotono> Four of the chargers are stopped, while the other six close to within striking range of the party, staying ten feet back! Meanwhile, the allied soldiers turn! "Protect our leader," one of them calls, a hail of arrows meeting the approaching soldiers!
[19:08] <Kotono> roll 7#1d20+4
[19:08] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 7#1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{13}, 6,0[ 1d20=15 ]4,0{19}, 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{8}, 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{11}, 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{17}, 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{17}, 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{11}
[19:08] <Kotono> roll 3d8+3
[19:08] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 3d8+3 --> 6,0[ 3d8=3 ]4,0{6}
[19:09] <Kotono> The arrows fly, but all of them miss or score exceedingly minor wounds! OOC - Deme.
[19:09] <Kotono> roll 1d8+1
[19:09] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d8+1 --> 6,0[ 1d8=2 ]4,0{3}
[19:09] <Demedais> "Right." Demedais nods to Seira as he dismounts and heals Pollyanna with his lay on hands, almost bringing her back to perfect condition! OOC: LoH, full 24 HP.
[19:13] <Kotono> After firing, the soldiers fall back on Seira's order! Meanwhile, Demedais heals a good part of Pollyanna's damage, but her eyes ares till glittering and blinded! OOC - Seira.
01[19:13] <Seira> "Hmph." Seira reels in her scorn for the soldiers lacking proper discipline, but eyes the cloaked man and the four would-be mages around him. Soon to be ex-mages, if all goes well, as she summons a fireball on their location!
[19:13] <Kotono> "Thanks..." Pollyanna breathes out in relief. "That's the target?"
01[19:14] <Seira> roll 10d6+3d6 extra fiery fireball!
[19:14] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 10d6+3d6 1,0extra fiery fireball! --> 6,0[ 10d6=31 3d6=8 ]4,0{39}
[19:14] <Demedais> "Yes, and that verified it. Hmph, he's gotten better..." Demedais growls.
01[19:14] <Seira> OOC: DC 24
[19:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[19:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[19:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[19:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[19:16] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{17}
[19:16] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{7}
[19:16] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{10}
[19:16] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{5}
[19:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[19:16] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+14 --> 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{25}
[19:17] <Kotono> The four soldiers are burned alive, falling! Pallan merely leaps up and to the side, nearly dancing on his horse as he avoids the flames! He resaddles unhurt, not even touched by Seira's potent fire! OOC - Alicia.
[19:18] <Alicia> Tossing back her hood, Alicia gives the opposing soldiers a feral smile as she spurs her horse into motion, smoothly drawing forth Hell Striker which ignites within her grasp, its flames burning away the concealing canvas to nothing as she holds the sword ready.
[19:18] <Alicia> Shaking the embers free, she wastes no time in charging past the front line of troops and leaping over the caltrops she placed as she barrels straight at Pallan and bludgeons him with the flat of the blade, though still scorching him severely with arcane fire!
[19:18] <Alicia> OOC: DC 21 will save for anyone within 30 feet of me as I charge or shaken. I probably provoke a couple of AoOs which I don't care about, so resolve them first?
[19:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[19:18] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{9}
[19:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[19:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[19:18] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{18}
[19:18] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{14}
[19:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[19:18] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{24}
[19:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4 crit?
[19:18] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+4 1,0crit? --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{11}
[19:19] <Kotono> roll 1d8+2
[19:19] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d8+2 --> 6,0[ 1d8=1 ]4,0{3}
[19:19] <Kotono> Alicia's arm is lightly torn open as she sprints, charging ahead and past them, leaping over the obsticles in her way! OOC - Will saves now.
[19:19] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:19] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:19] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{4}
[19:19] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=1 ]4,0{3}
[19:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:20] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{7}
[19:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:20] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{12}
[19:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:20] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{6}
[19:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:20] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{21}
[19:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:20] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{10}
[19:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:20] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{10}
[19:20] <Kotono> The soldiers are rattled in Alicia's passing, most of them shaken! OOC - Alicia.
[19:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 -4 power attack charge
[19:21] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0-4 power attack charge --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{21}
[19:21] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:21] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+10 --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{13}
[19:21] <Kotono> OOC - Whiff.
[19:22] <Kotono> Pallan looks shaken as Alicia approaches, but his reflexes are phenominal! He weaves back out of the blow, body moving more like the oily, super fast way Febras could, or occasionally sneaking fiends, or Seira! OOC - Bombers baove are up.
[19:23] <Kotono> Meanwhile, more bombs from above are fired, concentrated on the three still below and having not moved!
[19:23] <Kotono> roll 6#1d20-2
[19:23] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 6#1d20-2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{10}, 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{16}, 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{18}, 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{9}, 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{11}, 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{4}
[19:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20-2 crit threat
[19:23] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20-2 1,0crit threat --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{17}
[19:23] <Kotono> OOC: Touch ACs?
01[19:23] <Seira> OOC: 17, and I don't care about fire
[19:23] <Demedais> OOC: 13,
[19:24] <Kotono> roll 1d3 1 Seira 2 Deme 3 Polly for attack 2
[19:24] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d3 1,01 Seira 2 Deme 3 Polly for attack 2 --> 6,0[ 1d3=3 ]4,0{3}
[19:24] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[19:24] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d6 --> 6,0[ 1d6=3 ]4,0{3}
[19:24] <Kotono> roll 1d3 1 Seira 2 Deme 3 Polly for attack 3
[19:24] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d3 1,01 Seira 2 Deme 3 Polly for attack 3 --> 6,0[ 1d3=2 ]4,0{2}
[19:24] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[19:24] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d6 --> 6,0[ 1d6=2 ]4,0{2}
[19:25] <Kotono> More fire rains down! Pollyanna and Demedais find themselves somewhat on fire, the alchemist's brew sizzling on them!  However, they live yet! Pollyanna staggers up, trying to extinguish the flames on her, blinded and having few other options!
[19:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[19:25] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+7 --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{27}
03[19:26] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Polly>Gray cloaked man>Golden Eagle=Enemy ground troops(8)=Ally Soldiers>Demedais?!>Seira>Alicia>Hippogriff fliers'
[19:26] <Kotono> She succeeds, beating them off her clothes!
[19:26] <Kotono> OOC - Pallan's up.
[19:27] <Kotono> Pallan's head is bowed, hidden. "It's an honor, Reynes," he says with a shaking hint of fear in his voice. "I o-owe you a few..." With that, despite his fear, lines come rustling out from his cloak! They strike out, gleaming white and crackling with lighting!
[19:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15
[19:27] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+15 --> 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{17}
[19:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:27] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+10 --> 6,0[ 1d20=15 ]4,0{25}
[19:27] <Alicia> OOC: AC 26
[19:27] <Kotono> OOC - AC minus armor or shield bonus, Alicia?
[19:27] <Alicia> OOC: AC 15, lamer
[19:28] <Kotono> roll 2d6+5+2d6 and make a fort save.
[19:28] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 2d6+5+2d6 1,0and make a fort save. --> 6,0[ 2d6=5 2d6=9 ]4,0{19}
[19:28] <Alicia> roll 1d20+19
[19:28] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+19 --> 6,0[ 1d20=17 ]4,0{36}
[19:29] <Kotono> The strands cut through Alicia's armor like it doesn't exist! The blows leave her feeling weak, nearly drained! "Surrender and you don't have to die," he calls to Alicia! OOC - Eagle's up.
[19:29] <Kotono> The summoned eagle continues it's work, diving at Seira!
[19:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[19:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[19:29] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{10}
[19:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20-2
[19:29] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=15 ]4,0{18}
[19:29] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20-2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=1 ]4,0{-1}
01[19:30] <Seira> OOC: Yeah, ac 27
[19:30] <Alicia> "Urgh..." Alicia grimaces at the wounds penetrating her arcane defences. "I think not... just be grateful we want you alive, fool."
[19:31] <Kotono> No blows touch Seira, easily abble to defeat the summoned beast! Meanwhile, the ground troops close in! One rushes Demedais, while two go for the dazed, weakened Pollyanna, and the last goes for Seira! They still shake but fight on!
[19:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 Deme
[19:31] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0Deme --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{5}
[19:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 Polly
[19:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 Polly
[19:31] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0Polly --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{5}
[19:31] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0Polly --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{22}
[19:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 Seira
[19:31] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0Seira --> 6,0[ 1d20=17 ]4,0{19}
[19:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 Polly crit check
[19:31] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0Polly crit check --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{21}
[19:31] <Kotono> roll 2d8+4
[19:31] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 2d8+4 --> 6,0[ 2d8=14 ]4,0{18}
[19:33] <Kotono> The blows are fought off save for one, a blade sliding into Pollyanna's side! Still dazed and blinded, she isn't able to seriously resist the blow! Meanwhile, the other four horses hobble along, slowed by the caltrops! As they retreat, the allied soldiers take shots at the griffs!
[19:33] <Kotono> roll 7#1d20-2
[19:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 7#1d20-2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{6}, 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{17}, 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{2}, 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{11}, 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{8}, 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{4}, 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{11}
[19:33] <Kotono> roll 1d8+1
[19:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d8+1 --> 6,0[ 1d8=7 ]4,0{8}
[19:33] <Kotono> The wounded one, hit so many times, finally gives up the ghost! IT cries out and plummets...!
[19:33] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[19:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20 --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{6}
[19:33] <Kotono> And lands well to the side, a fireball of no importance going off! OOC - Deme.
01[19:33] <Seira> "Get rid of the fodder, Demedais, and protect your girl," Seira says, dodging the best attempts of both man and beast with a casual dismissal. "I'll do something about the remaining hippogriffs once and for all, as the need for stealth had passed."
[19:36] <Kotono> "Am I?" Pallan's face darkens, "I heard what you did to Sir Claris!"
06[19:37] * Demedais curses under his breath. "This is what drives me nuts. Pollyanna! I'm standing next to you - inside my haversack is a potion that should heal you quite well. Take it and retreat or heal, as you feel best!" With this, Demedais moves in and begins cutting through the Malmuthian soldiers, calmly seeking to end this here and now!
[19:38] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 PA) first soldier near Pollyanna
[19:38] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0(+1 Haste -1 PA) first soldier near Pollyanna --> 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{26}
[19:38] <Demedais> roll 2d6+9 whack
[19:38] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 2d6+9 1,0whack --> 6,0[ 2d6=8 ]4,0{17}
[19:39] <Kotono> OOC - Cleave.
[19:39] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 PA) cleave - second soldier
[19:39] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0(+1 Haste -1 PA) cleave - second soldier --> 6,0[ 1d20=1 ]4,0{16}
[19:40] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 PA) second attack since a 1 autowhiffs
[19:40] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0(+1 Haste -1 PA) second attack since a 1 autowhiffs --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{20}
[19:40] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[19:40] <Demedais> roll 2d6+9 whack
[19:40] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 2d6+9 1,0whack --> 6,0[ 2d6=6 ]4,0{15}
[19:40] <Kotono> OOC - Cleave to the last one near you.
[19:40] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 PA) cleave 2 into final one
[19:40] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0(+1 Haste -1 PA) cleave 2 into final one --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{27}
[19:40] <Demedais> roll 2d6+9 whack
[19:40] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 2d6+9 1,0whack --> 6,0[ 2d6=6 ]4,0{15}
[19:40] <Demedais> OOC: Nothing in shieldbash range?
[19:41] <Kotono> OOC: You could shield bast the Seira one if you wanted.
[19:41] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 sure.
[19:41] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0sure. --> 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{25}
[19:41] <Demedais> roll 1d10+4
[19:41] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d10+4 --> 6,0[ 1d10=6 ]4,0{10}
[19:41] <Kotono> Demedais cleaves through three Malmuthians like nothing, his shield dispatching the fourth! OOC - Seira.
06[19:42] * Seira takes aim at the remaining hippogriffs, setting off another fireball in their midst!
01[19:42] <Seira> roll 10d6 griffs+riders whee~
[19:42] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 10d6 1,0griffs+riders whee~ --> 6,0[ 10d6=41 ]4,0{41}
[19:45] <Kotono> The explosion above is deafening! The remaining two riders burst into flames then explode out! All around flaming wreckage lands, a potent ephetah to the defeated soldiers! OOC - Alicia.
[19:46] <Alicia> "You'll see for yourself soon enough," Alicia promises, not really caring that her words could sound ominous as she rapidly bashes Pallan's face with one end of her sword, channeling flames through it before she reverses to impact his stomach with the other blade to much the same effect, and repeats the cycle to ensure unconsciousness.
[19:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14 fire nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike
[19:46] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+14 1,0fire nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{22}
[19:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 holy nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike
[19:46] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+13 1,0holy nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{21}
[19:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9 fire nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike
[19:46] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+9 1,0fire nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{16}
[19:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+8 holy nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike
[19:46] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+8 1,0holy nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{28}
[19:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+8 holy nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike crit
[19:46] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+8 1,0holy nonlethal 3rd level arcane strike crit --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{16}
[19:46] <Kotono> OOC - One normal hit.
[19:47] <Alicia> roll 1d8+7+3d4 nonlethal
[19:47] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d8+7+3d4 1,0nonlethal --> 6,0[ 1d8=3 3d4=11 ]4,0{21}
[19:47] <Alicia> roll 8d6 fire
[19:47] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 8d6 1,0fire --> 6,0[ 8d6=24 ]4,0{24}
[19:47] <Alicia> roll 2d6 holy
[19:47] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 2d6 1,0holy --> 6,0[ 2d6=7 ]4,0{7}
[19:50] <Kotono> Pallan dodges most infuriatingly, the first two blows finding only empty space! The third doesn't even come close, as, "Oh, will-" His voice is cutoff as the flat of Alicia's blade slams into his chest! He's knocked back but still up! Meanwhile, Pollyanna rubs her eyes, grabbing Deme's hanging sack and falling back! OOC - PAllan.
[19:51] <Kotono> Gasping out, "Damn, youv'e improved too..." he breathes, as the glistening threads arc out again! "You're like a demon now...!"
[19:51] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15
[19:51] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+15 --> 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{19}
[19:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:52] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+10 --> 6,0[ 1d20=15 ]4,0{25}
[19:52] <Kotono> roll 2d6+5+2d6 and make a fort save, Alicia.
[19:52] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 2d6+5+2d6 1,0and make a fort save, Alicia. --> 6,0[ 2d6=6 2d6=7 ]4,0{18}
[19:52] <Alicia> roll 1d20+19 fort
[19:52] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+19 1,0fort --> 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{23}
[19:54] <Kotono> Alicia feels her flesh torn again, body weakening - but at the last moment she toughens up and resists it! "C'mon," he breathes to Alicia, slowly. "....Let me see if you're that good." OOC - The four remaining troops are up.
[19:54] <Kotono> The last four, having at last reached the party, go for Demedais and Seira in equal numbers!
[19:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[19:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{15}
[19:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{12}
[19:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 Deme now, should've mentioned Seira was first, but eh, they're 20 fishing either way.
[19:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0Deme now, should've mentioned Seira was first, but eh, they're 20 fishing either way. --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{14}
[19:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 Deme now, should've mentioned Seira was first, but eh, they're 20 fishing either way.
[19:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0Deme now, should've mentioned Seira was first, but eh, they're 20 fishing either way. --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{9}
[19:54] <Kotono> But the rain of swords does no damage to either of them! Lastly, the eagle keeps on Seira!
[19:54] <Kotono> orll 1d20+3
[19:54] <Kotono> orll 1d20+3
[19:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[19:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[19:55] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{15}
[19:55] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{22}
[19:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20-2
[19:55] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20-2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{8}
[19:55] <Kotono> But again, Seira isn't struck! OOC - Demedais.
03[19:55] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Polly>Gray cloaked man>Golden Eagle=Enemy ground troops(8)=Ally Soldiers>Demedais?!>Seira>Aliciia'
03[19:56] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Polly>Gray cloaked man>Golden Eagle=Enemy ground troops(4)=Ally Soldiers>Demedais?!>Seira>Aliciia'
06[19:57] * Demedais nods once and steps into position to clear out the remaining four soldiers once and for all! "Seira, go assist Alicia if you can!"
[19:57] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 PA)
[19:57] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0(+1 Haste -1 PA) --> 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{28}
[19:58] <Demedais> roll 2d6+9 whack
[19:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 2d6+9 1,0whack --> 6,0[ 2d6=4 ]4,0{13}
[19:58] <Kotono> OOC: Cleave.
[19:58] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 PA)
[19:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0(+1 Haste -1 PA) --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{21}
[19:58] <Demedais> roll 2d6+9 whack
[19:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 2d6+9 1,0whack --> 6,0[ 2d6=8 ]4,0{17}
[19:58] <Kotono> OOC: Cleave.
[19:58] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 PA) butter knife... of JUSTICE!
[19:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0(+1 Haste -1 PA) butter knife... of JUSTICE! --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{21}
[19:58] <Demedais> roll 2d6+9 whack
[19:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 2d6+9 1,0whack --> 6,0[ 2d6=10 ]4,0{19}
[19:58] <Kotono> OOC - Normal attack now for the last of maim.
[19:59] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+1 Haste -1 PA) second attack of the BUTTER KNIFE!
[19:59] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0(+1 Haste -1 PA) second attack of the BUTTER KNIFE! --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{18}
[19:59] <Demedais> roll 2d6+9 whack (assuming that hits, naturally)
[19:59] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 2d6+9 1,0whack (assuming that hits, naturally) --> 6,0[ 2d6=8 ]4,0{17}
[19:59] <Kotono> Demedais does what he vows, clearing the field and the last four normal soldiers! OOC - Seira.
03[19:59] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Polly>Gray cloaked man>Golden Eagle=Ally Soldiers>Demedais?!>Seira>Aliciia'
01[19:59] <Seira> "But of course," she responds with a smile. "Our own troops should remain a bit back and guard Pollyanna." And with that, she advances forward on her horse, casting manyjaws from her ring to assault Pallan and bring him down.
01[20:00] <Seira> roll 10d6
[20:00] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 10d6 --> 6,0[ 10d6=44 ]4,0{44}
[20:02] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[20:02] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+14 --> 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{32}
01[20:02] <Seira> OOC: He saves for half!
[20:02] <Kotono> OOC: Is it a ref save?
01[20:03] <Seira> OOC: Yes
[20:03] <Kotono> Pallan sees the teeth coming, bucking his horse! He weaves around the snapping bites, somehow evading each and every one of them! OOC - Alicia.
[20:04] <Alicia> "Seira, stop that! Are you trying to kill him?!" Alicia calls back as she moves in and presses her assault to render Pallan unconscious in a most painful manner.
[20:04] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14 nonlethal 3rd level arcane fire
[20:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+14 1,0nonlethal 3rd level arcane fire --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{30}
[20:04] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 nonlethal 3rd level arcane holy
[20:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+13 1,0nonlethal 3rd level arcane holy --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{29}
[20:05] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9 nonlethal 3rd level arcane fire
[20:05] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+9 1,0nonlethal 3rd level arcane fire --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{14}
[20:05] <Alicia> roll 1d20+8 nonlethal 3rd level arcane holy
[20:05] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+8 1,0nonlethal 3rd level arcane holy --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{16}
01[20:05] <Seira> "He won't die from that, but back at'cha!"
[20:06] <Alicia> roll 2d8+15+6d4 nonlethal
[20:06] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 2d8+15+6d4 1,0nonlethal --> 6,0[ 2d8=9 6d4=15 ]4,0{39}
[20:06] <Alicia> roll 9d6 fire
[20:06] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 9d6 1,0fire --> 6,0[ 9d6=37 ]4,0{37}
[20:06] <Alicia> roll 2d6 holy
[20:06] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 2d6 1,0holy --> 6,0[ 2d6=9 ]4,0{9}
[20:19] <Kotono> Pallan is stricken twice! The two blows send him falling down hard, not moving! His horse snorts feriously, standing over his body and eyeing Alicia with a look. A look that inspires hatred, even from a simple animal. OOC - Deme, you're up.
[20:21] <Demedais> "Okay. He still alive?" Demedais growls, remounting Horse and moving quickly to them, jumping over the caltrops as he does.
[20:21] <Kotono> OOC - Seira, you're up then.
[20:22] <Alicia> "Still breathing," Alicia confirms, eyeing the other horse dubiously. It's a lot smaller than that Nightmare she killed...
[20:23] <Demedais> "Let Horse try to explain the situation to Pallan's horse?"
06[20:24] * Seira looks at the fallen spy, then at his horse, before snapping her fingers, making the phantom jaws disappear. "We don't want to kill either of you," she tells the possibly intelligent horse, "but if you don't come along quietly that will happen. Your master, first, then yourself, as we cut our losses."
[20:25] <Alicia> "Explain the..." Alicia repeats, sounding vaguely appalled at reasoning with the dumb animal. "Alright, fine, but do it fast."
01[20:25] <Seira> "It's not just an animal," Seira says with a frown. "Shamal had a dog like that."
[20:26] <Kotono> OOC - Diplo check, Seira. -6 modifier due to circumstances.
[20:26] <Demedais> "Right." Demedais says once with a slight shrug. "Also, see Seira."
01[20:26] <Seira> roll 1d20+15 sure
[20:26] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0sure --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{31}
[20:27] <Demedais> "Okay. Ah, Horse? Please help me explain to Pallan and his horse that we wish to take him back to Balmuria, and that no further problems will result if both of them cooperate with us.
[20:27] <Kotono> OOC - Alicia, you're up if you wanna do anythign.
[20:27] <Alicia> OOC: delaying to see how this wacky plan plays out
[20:28] <Demedais>  " Demedais says, sending the appropriate emotive reactions as well through Horse. Worth a shot, at a minimum...
[20:28] <Kotono> The horse snorts violently again, but at last? It slowly, slowly backs away, still in biting and kicking range of anyone close to Pallan.
06[20:29] * Alicia swiftly dismounts, putting her sword away and then picking up Pallan even as she eyes the horse, ready to really hurt it if it violently objects.
06[20:29] * Seira waves at Pallan's horse. "Come on. We'll take you back, and keep you around until we can have a chat with Pallan without spells flying all over."
[20:29] <Demedais> "Okay. Please explain that I shall make sure he is in stable condition before- right, never mind." Demedais says. "We'll take him back to Balmuria. Please follow us." He gestures to Pallan's mount, before remounting himself.
[20:31] <Alicia> "Your horse can handle the extra weight best, Demedais," Alicia notes as she hefts the comatose Malmuthian, lifting him up to set onto the other paladin's horse, hopefully with Demedais' help.
[20:31] <Kotono> The trip back to Balmuria is done in a drizzle. Yet the spirits of your soldiers are good. There is the energy of success in the air, Pallan taken along with you. You pass by a few contingents of allied soldiers passing along as you go, eventually returning home. The gates are so opened for the party...
01[20:31] <Seira> "Let's get him to the garrison and get Claris and the Commander," Seira tells the others. "It might be quite interesting to see his reaction to that."
[20:32] <Alicia> "He seemed to think we'd done something nasty to Claris," Alicia snorts, nonetheless agreeable to this plan.
[20:32] <Demedais> "Indeed. Relay the message to tell Claris to come without magical items, I think, then? To prove there is no mental compulsion?"
01[20:33] <Seira> "He'd be in for a surprise, then," Seira muses. "And no, why do that? I don't think he can cast spells to determine that, and we won't be letting him cast anyway. But getting your other Malmuthian friend might help."
[20:33] <Alicia> "He's probably pumped full of spellgems, so we need to keep a *very* close eye on him when he wakes up," Alicia warns. "Just tying him up won't stop him using them."
[20:34] <Demedais> "Fair. I'll get Engan as well, then. And I may choose to sit in on the discussion myself... Mmm. I do not know." Demedais nods slightly. "Which is why I want to be present."
[20:35] <Kotono> The party heads to the garrison. Pollyanna has largely recovered, leading the soldiers away. The three head to a meeting room in the garrison. Commander Oberuth arrives first, looking him over. "Good work," he says. "Going to secure him before he gets woken?"
[20:37] <Alicia> "We should strip him of all his gear and bind his hands," Alicia agrees. "It won't stop him using spellgem powers, but he'll be more managable."
[20:38] <Alicia> Casting detect magic, Alicia removes anything magical from Pallan without bothering to identify the auras. She lacks any rope of her own, however, so relies on someone else to do the binding.
[20:38] <Demedais> "That'd be preferred, yes. Still, this went... far better than I expected." Demedais nods. "Hopefully, Claris and Engan can elaborate; he seems to think we did something to Claris."
06[20:39] * Demedais pulls out handcuffs. "Seira, you plan on tying his legs?"
[20:39] <Kotono> The cloak is magical and removed. Beneath he wears leather armor, also magical. He has spell component pouches, a non magical small bag full of gold Malmuthian coins and a few minor, non magical knickknacks. However, as you removeall of this, you notice something. The glimmering strands he struck with aren't hand wielded, but instead, lightly lace through his skin at points. The cutting threads seem interconnected with his body.
[20:40] <Demedais> "...Now that's a bit creepy." Demedais muses. "I am suddenly far more leery of letting Engan or Claris within range of these... tentacles."
[20:40] <Alicia> "By the Gods... what has he done to himself?" Alicia looks disgusted at the deformity Pallan has subjected himself to in the name of hurting others. "I thought it was a property of his armour, but this will make holding him far more difficult.."
[20:41] <Alicia> "Or perhaps not. They striked directly through my armour without harming it, so I don't think he could use them to cut through cell bars, for example."
[20:41] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth grimaces, "Do you know if it's safe to remove those...?" he asks, "Is it possible?"
[20:41] <Demedais> "What has he done to himself may not be as accurate of a question of what Ferdi has had him do to himself."
[20:42] <Alicia> "Probably not without killing him," Alicia shakes her head at Obureth's question. "Lets take him to the cells and manacle him to a wall? That way we should be able to keep a safe distance as we question him."
[20:43] <Kotono> "Agreed." Oberuth turns out, "Drag him to one, I'll gather the other two."
06[20:43] * Alicia easily picks up the comatose form of Pallan, leaving his gear here as she heads down to the prison to have him secured.
[20:44] <Demedais> "Thank you." Demedais nods as he heads to assist Alicia if needed.
[20:45] <Kotono> The trip to a cell is without incident. Soldiers stand at the ready on either side as he's manacled and held in. As this is done, Engan and then Claris and Oberuth arrive. Engan snorts, though his color fades. "Idiot bastard..." he sighs, as Claris murmurs a prayer under his breath.
[20:46] <Demedais> "So what did Pallan say we did to Claris, again, Alicia?" Demedais asks for clarification.
[20:47] <Alicia> "Unfortunately I've used up all my healing abilities for today on people who deserve it, so will someone else do the honours?" Alicia asks. At Demedais' question she turns towards him, "He didn't specify, he just said 'I heard about what you did to Sir Claris!' after I told him we wanted him alive."
[20:48] <Kotono> "I'll do it," Claris volunteers, entering the cell. As he kneels next to his battered body, "I'd rather he not have to die if possible," Claris says, "...No matter how distasteful I find his methods at times."
[20:49] <Demedais> "That's cheerful." Demedais grunts, pulling out a wand of cure light wounds and looking to the other rank-and-file soldiers. "You may want to move away from this cell."
[20:49] <Kotono> roll 4d8+12
[20:49] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 4d8+12 --> 6,0[ 4d8=27 ]4,0{39}
[20:49] <Demedais> At Claris
[20:49] <Demedais> At Claris' action, Demedais puts the wand away.
[20:49] <Kotono> Pallan stirs almost immediately, though his eyes don't open.  Claris looks down at him, before stepping away and out of the cell.
01[20:50] <Seira> "Quit pretending to nap," Seira calls over to Pallan. "We need to talk and time's being wasted."
03[20:51] * Sierra_InaDeepForest is now known as Sierra_Mikain
[20:52] <Demedais> "Out of curiousity, what did you hear we had done to Claris?"
[20:53] <Kotono> Pallan very slowly opens his eyes, blinking. "......get on with it." He says this atfter a few moments, "I won't tell you anything. I won't aide you."
01[20:54] <Seira> "You're wrong about that," Seira tells him. "For one, Claris is here, alive and well. Demedais already asked you... what horrible tortures were we supposed to have inflicted upon him?"
[20:57] <Kotono> "Go on, tell us," Engan crosses his arms, "We aren't going anywhere, either."
[20:58] <Kotono> "I am," Claris says evenly. "If it was torture, you were misinformed."
[20:58] <Demedais> "Oh, and that's Engan." Demedais says after a moment. "Think you recognize that name, too."
06[20:59] * Alicia simply glares at Pallan with undisguised loathing, not sparing any words on him.
[21:00] <Kotono> Straightening up a bit, not much considering his position, PAllan...flinches a little bit. He looks away from Alicia. "I'm not going to help you," he repeats, voice cold. "....I've said all I'm going to say."
[21:01] <Alicia> "Then you're worthless to us," Alicia pronounces as she goes to stand directly in front of Pallan. "Did you know that an army of devils is invading our world right at this very moment?" she asks him. "But instead of being where I can be useful in sending them back, I have to stay here and fight a war for the sake of one man's vain ego."
[21:01] <Alicia> "That..." she takes a deep breath, seeming visibly offended at Pallan's existence and needing to control herself, "Offends me. Now, you can help us end this war swiftly so that we can deal with more important things, or you can rot in here for the duration, and a long time afterwards - I really and truly do not care."
[21:01] <Alicia> "But, as you rot, at least consider that far more is at stake here than the fortunes of two countries. Perhaps if there is some decency in you, you might wish to see this pointless conflict ended swiftly... perhaps not. I am done with you." And at that, she turns and departs.
06[21:03] * Demedais blinks at this, a bit too shocked to say the words half-formed on his tongue.
[21:04] <Kotono> OOC - Make an intimidation check, Alicia.
06[21:04] * Seira pleasantly waits for Pallan's response.
[21:04] <Alicia> roll 1d20+17
[21:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+17 --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{24}
[21:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[21:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20+18 --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{34}
[21:05] <Kotono> Pallan's face turns ashen, but he doesn't reply immediately. "..... ....I don't care," he says at last. "My loyalties lie where they are."
06[21:06] * Alicia has already left, having been quite sincere in her words.
[21:07] <Kotono> Claris bows his head, "Pallan, please. This isn't the time for your ego. I understand, but...Is His Majesty worth your life?"
[21:09] <Kotono> "....." No words from Pallan, instead closing his eyes as if to rest. "....Sir Claris, I am not a traitor to His Majesty. Not now, not ever." He speaks with a detached calm, his color returning. "Go to him and you'll understand. It's not too late for you."
01[21:10] <Seira> "Fine. Can you explain the sneak attack on our sovereign land?" Seira asks sternly.
[21:13] <Kotono> Pallan does not reply. As Claris scowls, Engan looks on with tired, drained disgust. "You'd rather serve a kinkiller? Look at yourself," he waves a hand towards Pallan's threaded body. "Just another person who's been taken in by him? Damned fool."
[21:14] <Kotono> After a moment, "I have nothing to say to any of you," he says, keeping his head low.
01[21:17] <Seira> "Well, then. I intend to kill King Ferdi if he intends to keep on fighting us without the opportunity for peace. This is your last chance of fulfilling your duty and saving his life," Seira states matter of factly. "And I'm only extending it because you came to aid us against Kondrux, back in the day. That thought counted."
[21:17] <Demedais> "...I'll be perfectly frank. Malmuth attacked us - while the Crimson Guard was out assisting Malmuth by killing Irenes, I'd note - he's dead now, by the way, we killed him so he wouldn't intervent at another meeting between the two countries - and we were going to have Claris notify you of this when we ourselves got notified, oh, hey, war." Demedais says softly, the steel re-entering his voice. "We do not know why King Ferdi has done this. We cannot, in poi
[21:18] <Demedais>  "We do not know why King Ferdi has done this. We cannot, in point of fact, figure out any of his motives." (More)
[21:18] <Demedais> "We have devils on the border, a wannabe god that would like nothing more than to kill us all, and a few other massive threats and pressing issues to deal with. We would like nothing more than peace and stability - something King Ferdi's attempts have now denied us. We have attempted to act peaceably, and in fact to assist you; instead we are met with a marching army. I am afraid even my patience begins to thin, with this.
[21:19] <Demedais> We want answers so we can end this as calmly as possible." (More)
[21:19] <Demedais> "I will be frank - if we cannot get answers from you, our next action may very well be to end this war with blood, for we know so very little here. This will send Malmuth into another stage of tumult, which I am not confident it can recover from, and it will end King Ferdi's life. If you can help us understand precisely what is going on, a peaceful resolution becomes far more possible. You hold both Malmuth's fate and King Ferdi's life in your hands, Pallan
[21:19] <Demedais> "Choose well."
[21:20] <Kotono> At that Pallan does look up, "Then I'll repay that favor. Beg for peace from him on any terms you can get. Otherwise you'll die." He looks rightin Seira's eye on that, "He's stronger than Kondrux. His Majesty is not unmerciful to those that are worthy, he'll listen to you if you plead to him in earnest." After Demedais speaks, "If you want peace, bow to him."
01[21:21] <Seira> "Ah, I see!" Seira claps her hands. "It's not loyalty, it's FEAR! Now I get it!"
06[21:26] * Seira shakes her head. "Isn't it amusing how things turn out? It's not charisma Ferdi wields, it's pure terror, and the weak bow down before him."
[21:27] <Demedais> "At this point, I've killed skeletal dragons, stared down a spectral gold dragon bigger than a small city and stood up to another gigantic gold dragon, as well as handled swarms of demons, stared down a bloody pit fiend, and had my actions cause Hell to pretty much go insane. Um. And I think I get all of this, now, though I don't like the conclusion I've come to."
[21:30] <Kotono> "Go challenge him then," Pallan dismisses. "Call it what you like....but I won't betray my lord."
01[21:34] <Seira> "So how do you know he's stronger than Kondrux?" Seira asks conversationally. "If it could be objectively proven, I might reconsider."
[21:36] <Kotono> OOC - Go 'head and make a general diplo check, Seira.
01[21:36] <Seira> OOC: Can I take 10 for 31?
[21:36] <Demedais> OOC: Also, will you allow me to aid?
[21:41] <Kotono> OOC: Sure on both if you want.
[21:42] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 aid another diplo
[21:42] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0aid another diplo --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{36}
[21:42] <Kotono> LIstening, Pallan at last says, "...he killed the vrock in one single blow," he says.
01[21:43] <Seira> "What vrock?"
[21:46] <Kotono> After that, Pallan looks back down, saying nothing. "...you've had your warning. Beware."
01[21:48] <Seira> "But why are we being attacked?" Seira asks in frustration. "If we're supposed to get on our knees and beg forgiveness, what are we supposed to be apologizing for?"
[21:49] <Demedais> "Then you have sealed his fate." Demedais says at this. "You may continue to talk to him, Seira. I tire of this." With that, he leaves and heads thirty feet down the hallway before shaking his head, leaning against the wall.
[21:50] <Kotono> Engan snorts and follows. Claris looks on, "Call me if you wish to talk," he decides, staying for the moment. "I won't turn you away. Just like you said of His Majesty...we are merciful as well. You don't need to throw your life away...but I understand," he admits in the last. "A little longer and I'd have said the same, perhaps."
01[21:50] <Seira> "Whatever." Seira frowns. "Try to escape, try to harm any of those here, guards included, and your familiar will be made to pay for your mistakes. Play nicely and it will be taken care of. Is that understood?"
[21:51] <Kotono> Oh, that gets his attention. His eyes nearly blaze afire, his gaze turning up. "If you threaten or touch my companion...you'll die." He says it with a flat finality.
01[21:52] <Seira> "I left standing orders to care for him as long as you behave, and another set of orders if you don't," she continues without much care. "Don't misunderstand your position. We are already making more allowances for an unrepentant invader than we normally would."
[21:53] <Kotono> The look Seira gets is long and full of promised suffering, but Pallan says nothing else
[21:53] <Kotono> .
06[21:53] * Seira returns it with one full of contempt, before leaving.

[Corwin]

[20:56] <Kotono> ---------
[20:59] <Kotono> The party breaks up that evening for rest and preparations. Seira has issues on her mind, a chance to go talk to whom she wishes as the sun sets over Balmuria...
06[21:00] * Seira goes to bug her old man. He must be tired and in dire need of rest, which means she gets to be petty and spiteful and deny him that.
03[21:01] * Gate-temporaryexistance is now known as Gate-weekendness
[21:03] <Kotono> Saul rests in Seira's inn. Commoners flock here, getting food, drink and discussing in rapt, hurried words. Song filters out as Seira comes in, Donald keeping a watch over things. In the back she finds Saul, lying on a bed with a half eaten bowl of soup. He's awake, though still so horribly pale.
01[21:04] <Seira> "Hey," she greets him. "You look awful."
[21:07] <Kotono> "I feel worse," Saul agrees to that tiredly, "Doubtless that Irenes' magics worked a painful price on me."
01[21:08] <Seira> "Yes, prices and magic." Seira nods rapidly. "We've jumped straight to the topic I wanted to carefully breach. You know how I had to do some questionable things to kill him and save you?"
[21:11] <Kotono> That gets your father's attention. His eyes darken as he listens, "This saddens me, but yes."
01[21:14] <Seira> "It saddens me too," she readily agrees. "But that's in the past. I think we've all learned a valuable lesson, here." Seira frowns. "I think I made one bargain too many, though."
[21:15] <Kotono> "...I dislike the sound of that," Saul looks to Seira, "What did you bargain? Your services? Your wealth?"
01[21:16] <Seira> "My existence past death," Seira tells him. "The nice balor was really insistent and I wasn't ready to die quite yet. But I do have an out, now."
[21:18] <Kotono> A dead silence takes over the room. Saul's eyes darken even further as he slowly stands up. His legs are weak and a bit shaky, but they support him as he approaches his daughter. "You did WHAT?" he asks. "Did you pledge your soul to the Abyss?!"
01[21:20] <Seira> "Just a tiny bit," she tells him. "It's a shame you didn't stop me, what with being all mind-controlled by Unibrow and all."
03[21:20] * Devourlord_Sierra is now known as Sierra_WithingADeepForest
03[21:21] * Sierra_WithingADeepForest is now known as Sierra_WithinADeepForest
[21:23] <Kotono> "You can't SELL your soul a tiny bit!" Saul retorts. "Do you want to spend eternity as a mane and then most likely be absorbed into the Abyss?"
01[21:25] <Seira> "When the other choice was letting you rot and becoming a balor's plaything myself, I think it's quite obvious why I did what I did," Seira tells him with a huff. "Still. I did say there was a way out. I believed in one when I made the exchange, and turns out I was right."
[21:26] <Kotono> "What? Atonement?" Saul asks sharply. He then rubs the bridge of his nose, "Then what is it?"
01[21:28] <Seira> "You know how Commune works?" Seira shrugs. "I went straight to the source. Since the only real pledge I intended to keep was to her and it predated this, I figured I might as well ask. Well, I picked the right questions, it turns out."
[21:30] <Kotono> "Then...?"
01[21:33] <Seira> "A right donation will do wonders for my skin," Seira tells him, glancing sideways at the annoying mark the balor left on her cheek. "But there's a catch. I need to be at my best when we go after Ferdi. So it got me thinking -- I didn't bat an eye when I received aid from devils or the remnants of the god-king's power.
01[21:33] <Seira> And come to think of it, outside of Waukeen herself the celestial forces were pretty weak on that front." Seira shakes her head. "Nevermind that. Yes, I could die and that's a bad end for me, capital letters and all. But should I go face someone like Ferdi while weakened?"
02[21:35] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@cpe-70-112-23-198.austin.res.rr.com) Quit (Client exited)
[21:35] <Kotono> "So..." Saul takes just a moment to gather himself, "This mark," He looks at Seira's cheek, eyes locked on it coldly. "Strengthens you by demonic power?"
01[21:37] <Seira> "To put it briefly, yes. You could check me for any devilish signs all you want, and there are none. But I still accepted the power willingly, and it's saved my life many times since. Why is this so different? I can't decide myself, and I came to the one I'd trust most to help me realize it."
[21:41] <Kotono> "LIsten to yourself." Saul looks at Seira levelly, "A demon's power isn't your own power. It's corruption and temptation - you're even saying you'd be weakened by losing this! Clearly, this power has begun to warp your thinking."
01[21:44] <Seira> "No, clearly, not using your brains for too long--" Seira frowns. "Listen. A golden dragon gave me a portion of his power. It's extra fiery! It's not mine but I kept it. Would I not be weakened by losing it? Or is that different because he's serving the right side?"
[21:47] <Kotono> Saul looks at Seira with a mix of sadness and disgust, stepping away from her. "You're rationalising to holding onto the power of the Abyss. If you have a way out, plead to Waukeen and take it! That power is only there to corrupt you."
01[21:51] <Seira> "I feel like I'm talking to the wall," Seira says, palming her face. "I use logic and you appeal to emotion. What exactly is wrong about relying on powers and abilities that come from the Abyss, if they're not inherently vile?" She gestures in agitation. "A paladin here kept a devil around, and fought alongside her! Is that all that different? Is what I said before?"
[21:53] <Kotono> "Tell me, when has a demon ever shown altruism?" Saul states. "It's that do you really think the Abyss is going to let you run around with it's power without a price? Do you think that the Abyss gives out power like candy drops to anyone brave enough to ask and requires nothing else of them? The only logic you're using that is of a deluded soul that's being ensnared by the promise of what the Abyss tempts with."
01[21:54] <Seira> "I think the balor I met was stupid and I can get away with it for a few more days until Malmuth has had a change of leadership," Seira responds. "It's not like I plan on keeping it forever."
[21:57] <Kotono> "Yes, just a few days. I need that power a little longer. Then just a little longer more - I can't be weakened before my next battle." Saul's eyes burn with an energy now, one that makes his weak, rail thin body trembling. "This is not a toy to be manipulated or a power to be used until it's convienent to be removed! Your life, your spirit and soul are all at risk."
01[21:58] <Seira> "He can slay a vrock with a single strike," Seira tells Saul flatly. "Tell me I'll return from that mission without the power and the edge it gives me, and it's gone. I'm placing my life in your hands."
[22:04] <Kotono> "Then you'll die. But you'll go to her Lady's side forever, not to the vile pits of the Abyss! Have you not kept up your studies? Are the passing whims of life, even a long lived one for us with elven blood, worth the eternities that lie beyond? You're trying to tell yourself that it's okay to trust in this demonic power, that you need it.  You're trying to make me feel guilt over it - but the truth is that it's the temptation of the power th
[22:05] <Kotono> temptation of the power that's talking now."
06[22:06] * Seira blinks. "...no, that's the desire to not die talking. Ah, let me get this straight. I'm going to die anyway so I better go to the fluffier place?"
[22:07] <Kotono> Saul looks on in complete disbelief, "Do you care nothing for your soul's fate, Seira?"
01[22:09] <Seira> "I have confidence in my skills, and even more of it the more of those I have." Seira snorts. "But hey, I did say you get to choose. I already set things in motion, and if we press it I could be back at my shiny state before I blissfully go off on my suicide mission. Just as a friendly notice? Don't call me back. I'm pretty sure that we both know what my answer would be to that."
[22:17] <Kotono> Saul looks on at Seira with a note of sadness, "...So this is what you've become to save me?" He says at last, after som ethought.
01[22:19] <Seira> "No, it's what I became after you ran off without a word and kept away for years as I struggled," she can't help but say. "A large part of parenting is, well, you know... being there? Hell, I wouldn't know myself, but I read about that somewhere. Whatever." Seira smiles, then. "I might pull through anyway. I'm really, really hard to kill, now that I think about it."

[Corwin]

[17:56] <Kobreakfast> ----
03[17:56] * Kobreakfast is now known as Kotono
[17:57] <Kotono> The next day the four gather in the garrison. Mighty magics are used to protect themselves from harm and from death itself, weaving ittogether. When finished, Claris murmurs a prayer. "Lathander, aid us," he murmurs. You notice his hands do shake a bit, his gestures slow and careful.
[17:57] <Seira_> "Waukeen supports us," Seira pipes up. "I asked, just to make sure."
06[17:58] * Alicia has already made her preparations and left instructions with Antenora in case she doesn't return, now simply content to wait in stoic silence for the teleport to be done.
06[17:59] * Demedais looks to Claris with some remorse. "This will be tough for you, Claris, I know this. But..." At this, he falls silent, simply waiting for the spell.
[18:00] <Seira_> "You know, there's always a chance he allied himself with a bunch of devils," Seira muses. "The vrock, plus Waukeen didn't respond when I asked if King Ferdi was solely behind this madness."
[18:00] <Kotono> "You mean demons?" Claris shakes his head, "Vrock are demons, but..." He looks away. "Lathander forbid."
[18:01] <Seira_> "Yes, that." Seira shrugs. "Both are badness."
[18:01] <Alicia> "Guessing serves us little," Alicia notes. "Let's just go so we can end this."
[18:01] <Demedais> "This raises a decent point. Could the sword be chanelling a bit of the God-King? But... yes. We have nothing to go on. Let this be done."
06[18:01] * Seira_ withdraws her scroll. "Here we go! Hold on tight!"
[18:04] <Kotono> OOC - Casting, Cor?
[18:05] <Seira_> OOC: Yep
[18:06] <Kotono> OOC: Roll 1d100. I've been forgetting to enforce the possibility of error on teleport, but I really should start bearing it in mind.
[18:06] <Seira_> roll 1d100
06[18:06] * Hatbot --> "Seira_ rolls 1d100 and gets 79."12 [1d100=79]
[18:07] <Kotono> roll 1d10
06[18:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d10 and gets 6."12 [1d10=6]
[18:07] <Kotono> roll 1d1000 GM dice
06[18:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d1000 GM dice and gets 452."12 [1d1000=452]
[18:07] <Kotono> roll 1d100 GM dice oops
06[18:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 GM dice oops and gets 84."12 [1d100=84]
[18:07] <Kotono> roll 1d10 multiple 2
06[18:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d10 multiple 2 and gets 10."12 [1d10=10]
[18:10] <Kotono> Woooosh! The distances fade and fold, telepor-ack! It's just a moment of complete and utter disorientation! You appear in the plains. However, these plans are not empty! You appear in what looks to be a base camp. Tents are around you like a city, Malmuthian soldiers all about! You stand in front of a normal tent, a few soldiers blinking as you appear.
[18:11] <Alicia> "Seira?" Alicia asks in a flat, level voice in those precious few seconds before all hell breaks loose.
[18:12] <Seira_> "The hell you want?!" Seira snaps back. "Get a refund from Elle, it's her scroll!"
[18:12] <Kotono> Claris starts abruptly, looking about. "Oh Lathander..." he sighs in a deep voice.
[18:14] <Demedais> "..." Demedais just closes his eyes at this point, hand on his sword.
[18:17] <Kotono> There are four soldiers nearby, gawking! More mill about, surely a moment away from reacting! OOC - Initiative here, I think.
[18:17] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 claris
06[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 claris and gets 22."12 [1d20=20]
[18:17] <Alicia> roll 1d20+4
06[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+4 and gets 5."12 [1d20=1]
[18:17] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 sure.
06[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 sure. and gets 10."12 [1d20=9]
[18:17] <Kotono> roll 1d20 generic soldier initiative
06[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20 generic soldier initiative and gets 18."12 [1d20=18]
[18:17] <Seira_> roll 1d20+10 nerveskitter
06[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Seira_ rolls 1d20+10 nerveskitter and gets 21."12 [1d20=11]
03[18:18] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Claris>Seira>Soldiers>Demedais>Alicia Hino.'
[18:21] <Seira_> "This is where we demand to see their leader, right?"
[18:21] <Kotono> Claris looks ahead in a moment of complete trideptation, "Or cut a path through them," Claris does not look enthused at the idea at all. "Suggestions, anyone, in about two seconds?"
[18:22] <Seira_> "A path is fine too," Seira grumbles.
[18:23] <Demedais> "Or something akin will work." Demedais nods to Seira. "I like the leader option, personally. Information is more useful than a bunch of people trying to kill us and likely not doing a great job at it."
06[18:24] * Alicia doesn't quite roll her eyes, but instead favours the soldiers with her most winning smile. "We're here to negotiate with King Ferdi, but got a little bit lost. Would you kindly direct us to him?" she asks as nicely as 7 twelve foot tall paladins can.
[18:25] <Kotono> OOC - Uuuuuuuuuuh. Try a diplo check, Alicia. -5 circumstancial, since you'r ea freaking 12 foot tall paladin squad. I'll give you guys a chance before all hell breaks loose.
[18:26] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13
06[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 and gets 25."12 [1d20=12]
[18:27] <Demedais> "Indeed. Assistance in this matter would be appreciated."
[18:27] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 woo diplo check
06[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 woo diplo check and gets 25."12 [1d20=14]
[18:27] <Seira_> "Hmph. Take me to your leader!"
[18:28] <Seira_> roll 1d20+16 laf
06[18:28] * Hatbot --> "Seira_ rolls 1d20+16 laf and gets 33."12 [1d20=17]
[18:30] <Kotono> The soldiers stare and gawk, breathless. "The C-C-Crimson G-G-gu-guaaard?" One of them manages to choke out. He points a shaking finger, "T-Th-that's Seira the destroyer and D-Dem-Demedais of H-Helm!" The expressions that spread on the soldiers faces are a mix of two things - abject terror and raw greed.
[18:32] <Kotono> "I am Claris Brightsun, of the Great God Lathander," Claris states, his gold lined breastplate rather striking on him. "We do not wish to wantonly spill the blood of all the innocent soldiers here."
[18:32] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[18:32] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 19."12 [1d20=9]
[18:33] <Demedais> "You get to be a destroyer. I admit to envy." Demedais remarks coolly. "I suppose the golden dragons we befriended in the wastes won't come to help us today? Ah well. If they insist on this road, Helm help them... because it'd be wasting their time and lives. The nickname does fit you, I'm afraid."
[18:34] <Seira_> "Destroyer?" Seira muses, seeminly unconcerned about the armed soldiers. "--of worlds?"
[18:35] <Demedais> "And of buffets, likely. May just be you being half-dragon speaking there, though."
[18:35] <Kotono> Claris twitches t that. "This isn't the time..." he whispers towards Demedais and Seira.
06[18:36] * Alicia drops the friendly act as the others make their veiled threats. "Quite bluntly, if you raise your swords you'll die. However, we have not come here seeking a battle. Choose your response carefully."
[18:36] <Seira_> "We will have words after destroying this camp," Seira tells Demedais. "They really want to die, I see no leaders appearing."
[18:36] <Kotono> There are two reactions. "C-C-c-c-c-c-caaaalll the General!" Two soldiers gasp in fear, while a few braver ones do withdraw swords hesitantly. You can see th egreed in their eyes, the hope...but they don't advance, not yet.
06[18:37] * Demedais looks to Claris with a slight grin. "If greed overwhelms common sense, then perhaps making them realize just what they'd be up against will work better, mm?"
06[18:38] * Alicia glares at the ones with their swords out. "I see those blades so much as twitch, it'll be the last thing you ever do," she warns icily.
06[18:39] * Seira_ merely holds her new bow while the soldiers decide if they want to die today.
06[18:39] * Demedais then looks to the soldiers with drawn swords with the same slight grin, before looking to Alicia. "I think she put it best, though I'd likely let you try and touch me as an example of how stupid of an idea it is. It'd take luck you likely don't have."
[18:39] <Kotono> "T-that one's A-Ali-cia," The same soldier stutters, as more soldiers turn to look. Without a doubt you're surrounded, in the middle of a military camp. "I he-he-hear sh-she's killed d-de-devils! Real devils!" The two with swords out even manage to glare backd espite the fear on their faces. But they hold back, as soldiers race and run, frantically shouting.
[18:39] <Demedais> "Devils, demons, we've toyed around with pit fiends. Know those, boys?"
[18:41] <Kotono> There's some bustling several tents away, soldiers swarming there. There's someone coming from there - with full plate armor, a well scarred and muscled man with a clean face. His eyes are alert, a blue helmet worn.  He approaches behind a wall of soldiers, "I am General Granzt. Why are you here?"
02[18:42] * Seira_ (~Seira_@p11811112.orange.net.il) Quit
02[18:42] * NeremWorld (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Broken pipe)
03[18:44] * NeremWo (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[18:45] <Demedais> "We intended to go meet with King Ferdi. However, magic is a thing full of wonder, and we got dropped here instead. So. Care to give us directions so we may be on our way?"
[18:46] <Kotono> The General eyes the party, "You want me to escort you to His Majesty?" he asks, bluntly.
01[18:48] <Seira> "We do want to talk to you a bit, General, now that we have the chance," Seira tells him.
01[18:48] <Seira> "Mind sparing us a few moments of your valuable time?"
[18:48] <Kotono> "Go on," Soldiers continue to surround the area, at least a dozen thick and back now.
06[18:49] * Seira is dismissive of the soldier presence. "From talking to Pallan, one of King Ferdi's inner circle as you may well know, being in your position, we have discovered that we are characterized as people who have abducted one Claris Brightsun and tortured him vilely. Is that correct?"
[18:50] <Kotono> There are murmurs amid the soldiers at that, but Geeral Granzt doesn't blink. "There are many rumors about Claris Brightsun and Balmuria," he says. "Sir Claris, it is good to see that you appear to be in good health."
01[18:52] <Seira> "He is. We happened to rescue him when he was betrayed over Irenes's rampage in the Malmuthian capital. An unfortunate yet unavoidable fact, as we have learned from both Claris and Irenes himself, before slaying him, that King Ferdi was the one who invited him there in the first place, allowing him to experiment on human beings in his pursuit of old magic."
[18:52] <Kotono> Claris smiles slightly. "Reports of my..." he begins, before stopping at Seira's words.
[18:52] <Kotono> The General's face stays stony, "Irenes....the man with a reward on his head," the general muses. "Go on. Why are you telling me this?"
[18:54] <Demedais> "Many rumors? Hmph. No doubt all incorrect, but." Demedais shakes his head a bit in frustration, before looking to Seira.
06[18:54] * Alicia simply keeps a stern eye on the surrounding soldiers to ensure they don't get any ideas. She's the least up to speed on things with Malmuth, so best to just let the others handle this.
01[18:55] <Seira> "Why indeed?" Seira shrugs, her voice raising ever so slightly. "Wave after wave of advance scouts assaults Balmuria in an unprovoked, unannounced attack even the Gods deplore. As they are turned away at heavy losses, so will the vanguard, so will the main force. Yet why are the soldiers marching? Are they being told the truth?
01[18:55] <Seira> Here, right beside me, stands living proof that the many rumors of Claris are untrue. What else is?"
[18:58] <Kotono> The soldiers seem awestruck and confused, watching without reservation. The General is far more reserved, "So the rumors are untrue. For the rest..." The General shakes his head. "My superior officer is not too far away. General Olburt commands the military operations in this area. Will you wait peacefully for him?"
01[19:00] <Seira> "If by peaceful you mean surrendering our weapons, no, due to the nature of Malmuth's sneak attack on us. However, if you set aside a part of the camp for us, I don't see an issue with the matter. As those that tried to slay Claris in the capital could attest, I don't lack a way to retreat and break off negotiations."
[19:00] <Demedais> "Also, we'd like to claim the reward on Irenes' head, but seeing as he was devoured by the Abyss upon death, proving as such will be harder. Unless you're willing to take a paladin at his word, which would be, I don't know, the -sane- thing to do." Demedais grouses, before perking up a bit. "A General Olburt is fine, too. If your soldiers do not attempt aggression upon us, I shall not in return."
06[19:00] * Seira snorts. "I can conjure a vivid image of his agonizing last moments as proof."
[19:01] <Kotono> The General listens, before giving a very short nod. "Stay there," he instructs. He looks to a fewof the men near him, murmuring commands. The soldiers don't move away ata ll, but keep a steady watch. "The General should be along within the hour."
[19:02] <Demedais> "'k." Demedais shrugs, before turning to Seira. "Was it the scroll or the nature of the magic?"
06[19:02] * Seira begins playing with fire to pass the time, summoning harmless flame to coat her fingertips and letting it dance there. "Which part?" she asks Demedais quietly.
[19:02] <Alicia> "Well, if it looks like we can be rational about things..." Alicia allows herself to visibly relax just a little bit, and then clearly dispels both her mirror images and increased size, rather than letting the spells run out on their own.
06[19:03] * Seira has no visible spells upon her, so doesn't see a problem with letting them remain.
[19:03] <Kotono> The soldiers watch, one of them eyeing Seira. "...is it true one of you cut a dragon's head off in one jump and swipe?" One of them asks aloud.
[19:04] <Demedais> "After it tried to fry me with lightning, yes." Demedais nods in affirmative. "Seira here is fond of turning devils and demons into dust as a hobby."
[19:04] <Kotono> "Quiet," An officer sharply interjects to that common soldier, even as the others listen in awe.
01[19:05] <Seira> "No, but I called a golden wyrm back from the celestial realms in a massive show of resurrection to bargain for his favor."
[19:05] <Demedais> "Oh, right. After breaking the undead skeleton of the poor thing. Devils are irritating at times."
06[19:05] * Alicia chooses not to join in with the grandstanding, instead silently communicating with her sword. 'Hell Striker, what's the extent of your sensory abilities?' she asks, having wondered about that ever since the sword detected her two rooms away while she was protected by all sorts of disguises in Stygia.
01[19:05] <Seira> "And it's not a hobby. I take my fiend-slaying very seriously, almost like a job."
[19:06] <Demedais> "Your job is increasing the number of things you're a half-breed of, I think. Any plans to expand into the realm of the fabled fire giants or titans?"
06[19:07] * Seira takes out her golden dragon statue, eyeing it briefly. "I could start a whole new legend right here if I let everyone's eyes feast on this!" she tells Demedais with a smirk.
[19:07] <Kotono> The soldiers are just staring, really. None of them seem to speak up, officers glaring at them. A few of the officers are gawking as well, though.
[19:08] <Demedais> "Eh, save it for now, mm?" Demedais says with a grin of his own. "Let sleeping dragons lie until they're needed. Balmuria having one that's willing to assist it is kinda useful; guess they're not all like Kondrux, some are actually intelligent."
[19:08] <Alicia> 'Nothing in particular, simply keep alert,' Alicia replies silently. 'I wouldn't like for an opportunistic Malmuthian to sneak up on us at any point during this in hopes of becoming rich.'
06[19:09] * Seira puts it away after a moment's thought. "I really did ask Waukeen, you know?" she tells Demedais. "The situation seemed to warrant a Commune spell, and she deigned to answer. She is worried over slaughter on a massive scale in both our lands, and wishes us to do something to stop it. And... yes, demons are probably behind the scenes in Malmuth.
01[19:09] <Seira> Maybe Irenes called them? They managed to charm the King, perhaps?"
[19:10] <Demedais> "We've no way of knowing without talking to people. Helm just said to do what needs to be done to kill the false god, so the sooner this is handled, the better."
01[19:11] <Seira> "We'll watch the way General Olburt's responds, then, not just listen to the answers themselves. Sometimes, that's just as informative."
[19:12] <Kotono> As the time begins to go by, finally one soldier speaks up. "Is-is it true that..." he begins, but cuts off. His superior officer just silences him with a look. Like this 40 minutes pass. In the distance you can see preparations - catapults being dragged in a perimeter around you, men preparing, lines of archers, that sort of thing. (More)
[19:14] <Kotono> At last the wait is ended. The waves of soldiers part, a vanguard approaching. General Olburt wears full armor, surrounded by competent, deadly looking soldiers in full plate. As he approaches, "It's been while, Claris," he calls, "You as well, Demedais. I thought you took your words to heart."
01[19:14] <Seira> "Hi there!" Seira calls over to him. "I'm glad you could make it. Listen, how about we call off this war before even more innocent men recruited into serving in the army die needlessly?"
[19:15] <Kotono> "That's easily done," Olburt bristles back, "Council your nation to surrender peacefully and not another drop of blood must be spilt."
06[19:15] * Alicia stands up to face Olburt, only dimly remembering him from briefly passing him in Valandia, and seeing no need to talk unless addressed or the situation seems to be moving out of control.
06[19:15] * Seira coughs. "Who has won every single engagement to date?"
[19:16] <Kotono> "You battle hopelessly against the very least of Malmuth's armies." Olburt doesn't even stop to dignify that, instead going on. "But I doubt you're here to agree to surrender."
[19:17] <Demedais> "Pallan was notified we'd be heading to meet King Ferdi." Demedais replies coolly. "Besides, without any reason or knowledge of why this war was begun? And no, we haven't. We want answers at this point. This is not the sort of thing Helm, Waukeen, Mystra or Balmuria want to be dealing with."
[19:20] <Alicia> "As a representative of Mystra, frankly I don't care," Alicia puts in coldly. "This petty war is a distraction from far more important concerns. But do not mistake my distates for an unwillingness to fight against an unprovoked attack."
01[19:20] <Seira> "Yeah, answers would be great," Seira agrees with Demedais. "Plus, you weren't here for this when I said the Gods supported our cause. Well, they actually decided to intervene on our behalf. Fitting, is it not, as Irenes played with demon summonings at King Ferdi's commands, and Pallan spilled the beans on vrock frequenting the King's court?
01[19:20] <Seira> Only the desire to avoid bloodshed on the part of your soldiers who are being forced to march on us has stayed our hand thus far."
[19:21] <Kotono> Olburt is silent a few moments, "Regardless of that..." He looks about, "This is hardly a place to discuss these matters. I offer you my temt, where we can discuss matters."
06[19:22] * Seira shrugs. "The catapults and archers wouldn't be able to target us there, for all the good they'd do. Sure thing, I promise not to strike first."
[19:23] <Kotono> "We both know they aren't relevant to us," Olburt smiles just a little bit, a grim smile. "Break the circle," he instructs, soldiers scurrying away to give the four a path to walk on.
[19:23] <Demedais> "That will do just fine." Demedais says calmly.
06[19:24] * Seira is ready to follow where the man leads, even if it is a blatant trap.
[19:25] <Kotono> It's about a five minute walk to a large, empty tent. THere are a few chairs and the like around, though General Olburt doesn't sit. Six men follow him inside, lining the tent's pitched walls. The same men as before, fully armored and watching impassively. "Perhaps there are means to still come to an agreement that does not require further war," Olburt says.
01[19:26] <Seira> "Yes," Seira agrees. "It would also interest you in particular, General, that the last question I asked of my goddess was about yourself."
06[19:27] * Demedais inclines his head, before blinking bemusedly at Seira.
[19:27] <Kotono> "His Majesty's goals are not incompatable with your own," The General goes on. "It simply stands that the Baronies are essential to Malmuth's prosperity. The minerals and iron are indispensible on a mundane front, and...the ruins near Balmura are of paramount importance."
01[19:27] <Seira> "Of whether your mind was being clouded by unnatural, outside forces, or if you could be able to see reason. Her response... she said it wouldn't be easy, but nevertheless achievable." Seira glances at Claris. "That is the main reason I wished you to come, to be honest, but I did not want to get your hopes up in case it would not happen."
02[19:28] * NeremWo (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[19:29] <Demedais> "Okay. So, this is for resources." Demedais says flatly. "That, and the ruins, which we both agree are important."
[19:29] <Demedais> "Am I correct on this? Is this truly all?"
[19:30] <Kotono> Claris sighs, "It is true. The stories of our iron reserves being expended are entirely accurate. What lies left is beyond our means to harvest. Olburt, you know..." he begins, before deciding to go quiet.
06[19:30] * Seira blinks. "And the peace conference, where we agreed to share both research into the ruins and regulate the flow of resources? Malmuth got all it wanted, and it still wasn't enough?"
[19:32] <Kotono> "The iron is important, make no mistake." Olburt says, "But the ruins are the goal. His Majesty has decided that the ruins are too valuable." Olburt shakes his head at that, "...That was always his Majesty's goal. The conference was an unavoidable neccessity due to Irenes and other factors. His pressures and then repeated failures against the Crimson Guard greatly complicated our situation."
01[19:33] <Seira> "But you offered it." Seira seems quite frustrated. "What did you think we would do if you didn't call for a peace meeting, attack and invade you?"
[19:34] <Kotono> "The meeting wasn't for the Baronies," Olburt snorts. "His Majesty did wish to meet with the Crimson Guard, however. Further, the secrets of the ruins are being unvelied to the world. HIs Majesty has decreed that we must be the ones to control that."
[19:35] <Alicia> "What makes you think you can handle those ruins better than we can?" Alicia asks, breaking her silence and staring down Olburt. "When its come to great threats, like Irenes, Febras, Kondrux... all of them were able to do as they pleased against Malmuth, and were only stopped by our hands. What makes you think you can be better stewards of those ruins?"
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[19:38] <Kotono> "His Majesty's power grows with the day. With the Second Resort in his hand, he has become stronger than dragon." A stop there, "His Majesty believes that it is his right to see in the ruins, for he possesses rare power and capacity. Do you not understand? Those who unseal the ruins directly influnece the world."
[19:39] <Alicia> "How many dragons has he killed?" Alicia asks pointedly. "I've killed one. So has Demedais," she adds as if it's the most mundane thing in the world.
01[19:39] <Seira> "Huh. Well, we have one of the keys and he can't open the ruins without it. And I'd rather take it with me to some fiendish realm than hand it over out of sheer spite, and those knowing me would also realize I'm being quite serious."
[19:40] <Demedais> "We're well aware of that. They directly influence the world by working to free the God-King." Demedais notes. "Who -will- kill King Ferdi, just like he killed THE ENTIRE HEAVENLY HOST over a millenia ago."
01[19:40] <Seira> "Oh yes. Evocations spells a mile wide, angels burning by the hundreds. I remember that story. All gone in a second, right?"
[19:41] <Demedais> "Yep. Brainwashed Torm's head man, thrashed Torm himself... yeah, one man against the God-King won't go well."
06[19:41] * Alicia blinks and glances briefly at Seira and Demedais in surprise before schooling her expression. Not the time to get sidetracked.
01[19:41] <Seira> "Well, to be perfectly fair, Torm kinda--" Seira shakes her head. "Never mind, tangent."
[19:43] <Kotono> General Olburt smiles thinly at that, "He knows that. Claris, you know of His Majesty's presence as well." Olburt goes on, "He is our leader and more than that. With the tools Irenes developed and his own power, he greatly auguments those that serve him." For a moment, the mood in the room changes. General Olburt seems...different. It makes your hair brustle, your breathing sharper. "This is why he is the one who must lead the battle."
01[19:44] <Seira> "Did he augment you? If you come with us, I could probably fix you back," Seira offers. "You're free to return afterwards, I wouldn't try to recruit you to our side or anything."
[19:45] <Alicia> "Like he augmented Pallan?" Alicia refuses to show any reaction to Olburt's change. "I beat him senseless even while holding back to avoid killing him, and now he's languishing in our dungeon. You badly overestimate yourselves, and underestimate us."
01[19:46] <Seira> "But more than anything, people keep on telling me borrowed power is all kinds of fail," Seira adds. "Some helped me with my problem, I could do the same for you."
[19:47] <Demedais> "Is he making you as powerful as Torm, Helm, Mystra, and all the gods?" Demedais says flatly, before thinking about the situation for a moment and turning to Claris. "Remember in the ruins when I broke down cursing and ranting?"
[19:47] <Kotono> "It's your choice - His Majesty would not turn you away from him if you offered..." He says, "But the ruins and Balmuria were lost by his incompetent predecessors. He will have it back." He listens to the words the party speaks, "He has made me potent. He can do the same to you."
[19:48] <Kotono> Claris shakes his head, his color draining. Almost without energy, "...yes?" he asks Demedais.
06[19:48] * Seira tilts her head. "What if one of us beats you easily without taking your life... with one hand tied behind their back, so to speak, despite your augmentations? Would you be willing to reconsider your path?"
[19:48] <Alicia> "Mystra's grace and my own skills are all I need," Alicia replies haughtily. "I'll refrain from polluting myself with power derived from gnomish secrets that will probably just make me all the more vulnerable to Daa-vid when the time comes."
[19:50] <Kotono> "Are one of you challenging me to combat?" Olburt asks in return, looking them over.
[19:50] <Demedais> "Yeah, well, I think I'm going to need to do that again fairly soon. If I forget, remind me, okay?" With that, he turns to Oberuth. "This is all well and good, but I have to ask a very simple question first."
02[19:50] * NeremWorld (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
01[19:50] <Seira> "If there is something worthy in the outcome," Seira returns. "I have no reason to fight you just to prove something to myself I already know. It's you that I want to make a point to."
[19:52] <Demedais> "Did any of the minds in this entire situation ever consider just... you know... ASKING US?!?" Demedais bellows suddenly. "WHY GO TO WAR OVER SOMETHING WE BOTH AGREE ON, BY HELM'S ALL-SEEING EYES?! THIS HAS THE BE THE MOST SILLY THING I'VE EVER HEARD OF! I... no, don't respond. Answer Seira. I don't think my brain could take the response at this point."
01[19:52] <Seira> "Ah, the infamous rant," Seira comments with a smile.
[19:53] <Demedais> "Sorry, I just it just none of this makes any sort of coherent sense, by Helm!" Demedais growls. "But I interrupt. My apologies. Let's move on."
01[19:54] <Seira> "Yes, let's," she agrees.
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[20:02] <Kotono> An eyebrow is raised at Demedais, but Olburt holds his position. "Whatw ould that be, then?" he asks Seira.
01[20:04] <Seira> "If you can't even beat a tiny, incomplete dragon, or two people who have just told you slew adult dragons... well, that puts a whole new spin on your King's story, doesn't it? If he's right and has augmented you properly, you could kill any one of us in a duel. Don't you want to test the firmness of your faith in King Ferdi? Maybe he is not as deserving as it, not quite as blindly?"
[20:05] <Kotono> "I have no doubts. If you want to see a display of my power, I'll entertain any of you." His eyes to drift towards Demedais a bit at that. "I do owe you in particular for Tauret..."
01[20:05] <Seira> "Since in a duel we both bet something... one of us would bet his life, but as we would be fighting to subdue you instead, you must provide something of equal value," Seira points out.
[20:07] <Demedais> "Sorry, a bit too angry to engage in a coherent fight." Demedais says. "I do not think I could currently competently aim for subdual. Seira seems itching for a fight, however. And what do you owe me for Tauret, again?"
[20:07] <Kotono> "Fine, Seira," He shrugs at that, "If you win, I'll take you to see His Majesty."
06[20:07] * Seira considers, and looks at the others.
[20:08] <Kotono> Claris nods. "It's better than hacking our way out," he does note. "General Olburt, I do hope I you understand what you're getting into."
06[20:08] * Alicia gives Seira a little nod. Things have gone very strangely, and this is probably the best they can hope for.
06[20:09] * Demedais shrugs to Seira. "At some point I would like an answer to the question, but that can wait until we talk to King Ferdi, so."
02[20:10] * NeremWorld (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
01[20:12] <Seira> "As a fair warning, you find yourself facing, well, me!" Seira exclaims. "You'll take us to see your king, unmolested? I can live with that. Do go all out as you fight -- that would be the only way to show you how inadequate your augmentations truly are."
[20:14] <Kotono> Olburt draws his weapons - a long sword in one hand, a mace in the other. He moves them with stunning skill, seeming not the least awkward using both at the same time. "Then...!" He says, as...OOC - Initiative.
01[20:15] <Seira> roll 1d20+10 nerveskitter + pearl
06[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+10 nerveskitter + pearl and gets 13."12 [1d20=3]
[20:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 10."12 [1d20=2]
03[20:16] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Seira>Olburt'
[20:17] <Kotono> The tent is about thirty feet wide circular. Six soldiers in full plate stand at intervals around it. A few chairs are about here and there.
01[20:17] <Seira> OOC: Is there... an exit?!
[20:18] <Kotono> There's a single exit, guarded by soldiers.
06[20:18] * Alicia steps away from Seira at the sudden commencement of combat, observing Olburt's form as he fights.
01[20:19] <Seira> "Mind if I take this outside, to ease up on collateral damage?" Seira asks Olburt.
[20:19] <Kotono> "I do mind. No need to stir up the men," he says intently.
06[20:19] * Demedais also steps back, sword in scabbard at his side.
01[20:20] <Seira> "Okay, then." Seira becomes invisible, and circles the room to make a bit of distance between them.
[20:21] <Kotono> OOC - Where are you in regard to him?
01[20:22] <Seira> OOC: Say to his left and back?
[20:22] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[20:23] <Alicia> 'Hell Striker, can you still follow Seira's movements?' Alicia asks as the captain vanishes. If it can discern her nature past Judgement's illusions and through two walls, hopefully, but she'd like confirmation it can locate an invisible opponent.
[20:23] <Kotono> Seira vanishes from sight! Olburt smiles, his face tight, taunt. He doesn't seem tod o anything right away, but...OOC - Seira, what are the effects you have active on you right now?
[20:24] <Alicia> 'Excellent,' Alicia smiles thinly.
01[20:24] <Seira> OOC: Greater invis CL11, spider climb CL11, stoneskin CL7, MA CL1
[20:24] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[20:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 19."12 [1d20=9]
[20:24] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 25."12 [1d20=15]
[20:25] <Kotono> OOC - Go Seira.
06[20:26] * Seira grits her teeth, but the act is not done in anger. Ten pairs of phantom jaws seek out Olburt's blood, while she comments, "Not bad. Not good, per se, but not bad." She takes care to move again, this time to Olburt's front and right, in a polar opposite of the one she occupied.
01[20:27] <Seira> roll 10d6 force
06[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 10d6 force and gets 40."12 [10d6=5, 4, 4, 4, 4, 3, 2, 6, 4, 4]
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13
06[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 and gets 15."12 [1d20=2]
01[20:27] <Seira> OOC: Fail
[20:28] <Alicia> 'I don't really know,' Alicia admits. 'If it were devils, I'm sure Latha would have warned us. And Irenes was cast out by Malmuth, and he seemed to be the one most involved with the Abyss... but it would be foolish to assume demons would act in unison. It could be another faction,' she reasons as she silently watches Olburt be assailed by Seira's magic.
[20:29] <Kotono> The teeth tear into General Olburt! His full plate armor tints strangely red, however, as the bites don't draw much blood. Even what they do seems to be sealing up rapidly! "Is that it?" He asks, as he still does not move.
[20:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[20:30] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 27."12 [1d20=17]
[20:30] <Kotono> The manyjaws shudder and vanish away, winking out of existance.
06[20:30] * Demedais raises a lone eyebrow.
01[20:31] <Seira> A lance of ice impacts against the general, as Seira moves silently to be to his front and left.
01[20:31] <Seira> roll 1d20+17
06[20:31] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+17 and gets 24."12 [1d20=7]
01[20:32] <Seira> roll 6d6+3d6
06[20:32] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 6d6+3d6 and gets 25."12 [6d6=1, 2, 1, 5, 1, 4][3d6=5, 1, 5]
01[20:32] <Seira> OOC: Fort please
[20:33] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15
06[20:33] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 and gets 18."12 [1d20=3]
01[20:33] <Seira> roll 1d4
06[20:33] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d4 and gets 3."12 [1d4=3]
[20:33] <Alicia> 'Even if no fiends act here, hopefully we will finish soon and battle the devils invading the desert. Whether we can finish this bloodlessly, though, I cannot say... Though Seira looks to be finishing up,' she concludes as Olburt is stunned by the icelance.
[20:34] <Kotono> The ice lance hits Olburt, seeming to knock him off balance and stunning him! His mace and sword drop to the ground, even as his wounds continue to heal! OOC - Seira.
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06[20:38] * Seira uses the exciting scorching ray spell!
01[20:38] <Seira> roll 1d20+13 touch 1
01[20:38] <Seira> roll 1d20+13 touch 2
06[20:38] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+13 touch 1 and gets 18."12 [1d20=5]
01[20:38] <Seira> roll 1d20+13 touch 3
06[20:38] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+13 touch 2 and gets 25."12 [1d20=12]
06[20:38] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+13 touch 3 and gets 23."12 [1d20=10]
01[20:41] <Seira> roll 4d6+3d6+3d6
06[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 4d6+3d6+3d6 and gets 43."12 [4d6=6, 3, 4, 6][3d6=5, 2, 5][3d6=3, 5, 4]
01[20:41] <Seira> roll 4d6+3d6
06[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 4d6+3d6 and gets 17."12 [4d6=2, 4, 2, 4][3d6=1, 3, 1]
01[20:41] <Seira> roll 4d6+3d6
06[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 4d6+3d6 and gets 15."12 [4d6=1, 1, 3, 1][3d6=1, 2, 6]
[20:42] <Kotono> The assault batters General Olburt, who looks dazed, stunned and torn up, but isn't out yet despite the barrage of assaults on him! OOC - That's his second lost round, you have one more. Go Seira.
[20:42] <Kotono> The soldiers in the room watch on in surprise, the battle going on around them.
06[20:43] * Demedais grins. "And such a spell is child's play to the God-King, I have no doubt."
06[20:44] * Seira is lucky she has the appropriate pearl, and repeats her attack! "Yes, yes, mock my mighty prowess," she grumbles, casting.
01[20:44] <Seira> roll 1d20+13 touch 1
01[20:44] <Seira> roll 1d20+13 touch 2
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+13 touch 1 and gets 32."12 [1d20=19]
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+13 touch 2 and gets 19."12 [1d20=6]
01[20:44] <Seira> roll 1d20+13 touch 3
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+13 touch 3 and gets 30."12 [1d20=17]
01[20:44] <Seira> roll 4d6+3d6
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 4d6+3d6 and gets 29."12 [4d6=3, 5, 6, 2][3d6=6, 2, 5]
01[20:44] <Seira> roll 4d6+3d6
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 4d6+3d6 and gets 19."12 [4d6=1, 3, 1, 4][3d6=1, 4, 5]
01[20:44] <Seira> roll 4d6+3d6
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 4d6+3d6 and gets 28."12 [4d6=1, 4, 6, 6][3d6=5, 3, 3]
[20:45] <Alicia> "Have to admit, I'm somewhat impressed at his endurance," Alicia grants. "But she might kill him at this rate..."
02[20:45] * NeremWorld (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[20:45] <Kotono> General Olburt is stricken again! Despite these injuries he's still up! He's still dazed, his body trying to mend the grevious, massive damage done to him! OOC - Seira.
[20:46] <Demedais> "No, I note that what we're going against is immensely frightening and could rip us apart if we don't damn well work together with all our resources instead of squabbling like idiots."
01[20:46] <Seira> "I feel really bad doing this, guys," Seira admits. "But he just won't fall! And my best put-down spell cover an area, while he insisted on staying close to everyone."
[20:47] <Alicia> "We appreciate your consideration," Alicia calls supportively. "I'm sure the Malmuthians do, too, even if they're too shy to say it."
[20:47] <Demedais> "If this doesn't count as a loss I have no clue what does. You have far more than this, but you're not aiming to kill - he should know this."
06[20:50] * Seira sends five magic missiles at Olburt, trying to stay true to her word. If that makes him fall, well....
01[20:50] <Seira> roll 5d4+5
06[20:50] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 5d4+5 and gets 14."12 [5d4=1, 4, 1, 2, 1]
[20:51] <Kotono> The five missiles slam into Olburt! THe first four aren't enough, only rocking him back! But the fifth hits his hand - it's a passing minor injury at best, but it's finally too much! General Olburt shivers and falls over in a heap! OOC - Take your move action now.
06[20:52] * Seira moves over, and presses the tip of a notched arrow to the general's forehead. "Do surrender, Sir. You are beaten fairly."
[20:53] <Demedais> "And to think that Seira has dragon blood." Demedais muses at this.
[20:54] <Kotono> He's only down for a moment, his injuries refusing to stay in place and unhealed. "Ugh..." he makes a few exhausted, wet sounds as he shakes his head, eyes rolling up to see Seira. "...damnations..." he breathes.
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06[20:55] * Seira becomes visible, arrow at his forehead! "No, I actually cut any ties with that stuff," she responds. "All clean, Waukeen-following dragon in training girl!"
06[20:55] * Demedais steps in to look over Olburt, trying to judge if he needs healing before moving to do so himself. At his awakening, he steps back with a shrug. "If you didn't hear my comment as she was flinging spells at you, I can repeat it."
[20:56] <Kotono> Olburt's injuries are healing before your eyes. You notice blood seeps out from underneath his armor - dark, half dried blood, like sludge. "Ugh." he coughs again, "I don't believe it. I couldn't even get up."
[20:56] <Alicia> "And the captain never even took so much as a scratch," Alicia comments. Just in case anyone failed to grasp it.
06[20:56] * Demedais uses Detect Chaos on a whim on seeing the blood.
01[20:56] <Seira> "A simple magical trick," Seira informs him, finally putting the bow away. "I learnt it a few months ago. You'll be happy to know I got Irenes with it, too!"
06[20:57] * Demedais blinks for a few, long, seconds, before looking Olburt himself, and then the other soldiers, over.
06[20:58] * Demedais turns and walks to Alicia, before whispering in her ear, "Please check Olburt's blood for evil."
06[20:59] * Alicia blinks and then duly checks the immediate vicinity for evil.
01[20:59] <Seira> "You know," she says conversationally, "while you could dispel my little phantom jaws, what if I had used them after immobilizing you? To be consumed alive only to regenerate, a neverending cycle of pain and madness. That's child's play to either the God-King or the forces King Ferdi toys with."
06[20:59] * Seira snorts. "Bet you weren't told about that, no. You were invincible, right? And your monarch could never be wrong."
[21:00] <Demedais> "Child's play to what King Ferdi toys with, which is child's play to what the God-King can do." Demedais grunts.
[21:00] <Kotono> "Ugh..." WIping at his face as his wounds continue to heal at a marvelous rate, "Fine, you're strong. But if you're just a little stronger than I am, how are you going to stop what you're talking about?" He looks pale, tired despite it.
06[21:00] * Demedais idly takes Alicia's shoulder. "Lemme guess. Yes?"
01[21:00] <Seira> "Remember the in-training part?" she reminds him. "How about the 'gods decided to intervene in our favor' part?"
01[21:01] <Seira> "I don't want to brag, but I've met Waukeen face to face. Can Ferdi lay claim to that?"
06[21:01] * Alicia frowns and nod in reply to Demedais. "Excuse me, General Olburt?" she speaks up.
[21:01] <Kotono> "Ask him yourself," Olburt says, "I'll take you to him then." He sits back, an exhausted, angry scowl on his face. "Yes?"
[21:01] <Demedais> "And I, Helm." Demedais says, still with one hand on Alicia's shoulder waiting for a response. At that, he turns to Olburt. "Have you, ah, been notified -how- King Ferdi gave you this power?"
[21:02] <Alicia> "I've heard tales of you before, that you wield a legendary holy blade of some power, is that correct?" she asks, glancing towards his sword.
06[21:03] * Demedais looks to Alicia. "Answer her question first. It's a better way of handling this."
[21:03] <Kotono> "Yeah," The sword on the ground is a golden blade, of fine make.
[21:03] <Demedais> "Yes to which question?"
[21:03] <Kotono> "Hers," Waving his hand to Alicia, Olburt slowly begins to stand up.
[21:04] <Alicia> "Really? And have you perhaps found that the blade doesn't quite serve as well as it used to, by any chance?" she presses.
[21:04] <Kotono> For a moment you see just a hint of surprise on Olburt's face - or perhaps it wasjust in your mind. "Of course not. My skills have only improved."
[21:04] <Alicia> 'Hell Striker, you can sense goodness, right? What of that blade?' Alicia silently asks her own sword before responding to Olburt.
06[21:05] * Seira moves over to Claris quietly, and nudges him. "Pallan was also altered, and the ways he was touched by the unnatural doesn't make me confident about Olburt's augmentations. Think you can help convince your friend there let us help him?"
[21:06] <Alicia> "Because weapons of the heavens rebel when used by those tainted by the lower planes," Alicia explains. "Your blood stinks of the evil and chaos of the Abyss, but you yourself do not seem to be a figure of malevolence. I would question the nature of Ferdi's gifts, and the effect they will have on your woul."
06[21:06] * Demedais looks to Alicia for a moment, before looking to Olburt. "Mind answering my question?"
[21:06] <Kotono> Claris has been looking on, silent and reserved. "I can try," he lowers his voice, so as not to carry. "I..." he begins, before looking away. HIs voice catches, "Excuse me a moment," he turns away.
[21:07] <Alicia> soul*
[21:08] <Kotono> "His Majesty's wisdom is without doubt," he says without a hesitation, "This is the power he has given me and I will not turn it away."
[21:08] <Demedais> "In other words, uh, Irenes probably gave you an injection of demon-ness." Demedais says, before eyeing Olburt.
01[21:08] <Seira> "I could replace it with something better," Seira offers, before pointing at herself. "Like Alicia said, not a scratch!"
[21:08] <Alicia> "Even if it consigns you to an eternity of suffering in the Abyss?" Alicia asks in shock. "You are as mad as Pallan. Has this entire country lost its mind?!"
[21:09] <Demedais> "Alicia?"
[21:09] <Kotono> "If I am to die for His Majesty, then I welcome it," Olburt starts to walk, looking at Claris once, the two not meeting eyes. Then he looks back to the party, "He is the one who will restore our kingdom and make it teh greatest to ever be."
[21:10] <Alicia> "What?" the female paladin turns to Demedais, looking like she'd quite enjoy hitting something. Or someone.
[21:10] <Demedais> "...Hold that thought." Demedais says after a moment, before turning to Olburt. "And what if King Ferdi was being manipulated by a demon himself?"
01[21:10] <Seira> "I suggested that before!" Seira agrees. "Totally possible!"
[21:11] <Kotono> "It's not possible. Irenes was the gateway, wasn't he? There are none left." Olburt shakes his head, "The one that remained and attempted to raise trouble was dispatched by His Majesty in a stroke."
[21:11] <Demedais> "Not possible. Probable; in fact, bloody likely." Demedais says. "Your king is wise, but he is currently at the mercy of forces and powers that seek dominion over his soul and desire to wreak havoc over the land. Are you willing to let this happen to your Majesty?"
[21:12] <Demedais> "No. The ways are opening again. In the west of Balmuria, devils have found a way through; demons can do the same. Furthermore, there are far more subtle ways of causing havoc and discord..."
[21:13] <Demedais> "Or would a war with the neighboring country to wear away both before a demonic invasion consumes both -not- be a valid end course of this madness?"
01[21:13] <Seira> "The amusement of sending us clashing into conflict alone could be the reason," Seira adds, nodding.
[21:13] <Alicia> "I'd be fighting those devils if not for this idiotic conflict," Alicia comments acidly. "But if demons have truly gained a foothold here, at least this may not be a complete waste of my time. I'd rather deal with them than have to fight soldiers simply doing their duty."
[21:14] <Kotono> Olburt hesitates, then shakes his head. "You'll see him soon," he says after long moments. "Once you do, you won't have any of these doubts."
[21:14] <Demedais> "You cannot afford this, General Olburt. You claim your duty is to King Ferdi? Then you cannot ignore the clear and present danger inherent in this. You risk far too much."
[21:15] <Demedais> "I do not even think I need to see him, Olburt." Demedais says sadly. "Something has gone very wrong here. Or is there a good answer for why you simply did not ask?"
[21:16] <Demedais> "There is far too much strangeness for there to not be foul play involved. This is all far too twisted, I am afraid. Please. Olburt... Trust us. Your liege is in grave danger, if this is truly the case."
[21:17] <Kotono> "......" Olburt stops there, lingering. "I will take you to see his Majesty," he says at last. "If you're correct and the Gods walk with you and a demon walks with us, then..." He starts to walk out again, "We'll see."
06[21:17] * Demedais inhales. "How far is it?"
[21:18] <Kotono> Olburt is out, but one of the soldiers on the wall inclines his head. "About half a day's ride."
[21:19] <Demedais> "Thank you." Demedais nods courteously. "I'll be blunt; you may want to keep this close to your chest. If we're right... a panic won't help matters right now."
[21:19] <Kotono> Claris looks to the door, "Lathander, what was I close to..." he murmurs. HIs voice is soft, like he's talking his thoughts out loud.
06[21:20] * Demedais looks to Claris. "Hmm? You feel a pull from this?"
01[21:20] <Seira> "No, he's just regretting things. We know how that goes."
[21:20] <Alicia> "You had a lucky escape, indeed," Alicia tells Claris. "No abyssal gifts would ever be able to make up for losing touch with your God."
06[21:21] * Demedais follows Olburt quickly, gesturing to the party to follow.
[21:21] <Kotono> You get a start from Claris, looking back. "Yes. I was so close to demons and evil, yet I never saw it...or did I choose not to see it?" He looks away, "Perhaps...perhaps it was Lathander's will then? These trials and ending up on this path?"
06[21:21] * Alicia picks up the pace, following Demedais out the tent.
01[21:21] <Seira> "You're getting the chance to fix things. Shouldn't that make you happy?" Seira asks Claris.
[21:21] <Demedais> "Perhaps." Demedais nods. "We can try to do what we can, from here."
[21:22] <Kotono> "Yes." Claris does agree to that. "Still, if this is true and I had known, perhaps we would not be here."
[21:22] <Kotono> Outside, you find horses being ready. A whole 100 person strong group, slowly filling up. In the center are a few empty horses, awaiting.
06[21:23] * Demedais calls upon Horse. "If it is true and you had known, it likely would have moved to kill you sooner. ...Corruption demon?" Demedais muses.
06[21:23] * Seira keeps her staff near, as is proper for her image, and smiles brightly at the soldiers as she approaches one of the empty horses.
06[21:23] * Alicia obligingly saddles up on one of the prepared horses, ready to depart.
[21:26] <Kotono> You find you are north of Valandia. The half day's trip has you passing by countless military encampnets and marches, tens of thousands of soldiers glimpsed as you ride along. If they don't look, surely they would imagine that great nobles or warriors ride in the center, not hotly contested enemies. Yet General Olburt rides at the head of the pack, none interfering at the sight of his face. (More)
[21:28] <Kotono> The sky is turning orange with the start of the sunset as you arrive. The weather is borderline cold. The gates into Valandia are opened without incident as you head in.  You are lead deeper in, deeper. Deep in Valandia is a fine house with a few plainer houses around it. Here is where the caravan ends. General Olburt dismounts, then to the party, "This way."
[21:30] <Alicia> Alicia dismounts, attentive for any evil as she follows Olburt, while Hell Striker guards her against any foes she herself can't percieve.
[21:30] <Kotono> You are lead into a rich house. Ahead of you is a pleasant stairway up, leading to a second floor. It's quite rich...OOC - Make wisdom checks, all of you.
[21:30] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
06[21:30] * Demedais keeps an eye out for chaos, himself.
06[21:30] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 25."12 [1d20=20]
[21:30] <Demedais> roll 1d20+2 asdf this won't be pretty.
06[21:30] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+2 asdf this won't be pretty. and gets 10."12 [1d20=8]
01[21:31] <Seira> roll 1d20-1
06[21:31] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20-1 and gets 6."12 [1d20=7]
[21:31] <Alicia> roll 1d20+1
06[21:31] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+1 and gets 13."12 [1d20=12]
[21:32] <Kotono> As he walks, Claris falls in step with Alicia, who happens to be the cloestest to him at the time. "This place.." he murmurs. "This place is..." He breathes out, "I can feel the energy. I can feel His Majesty. Lathander...the feeling's grown so strong."
[21:33] <Alicia> "Be strong," Alicia whispers. "Lathandar walks with you, and He is greater than anything Ferdi can offer."
[21:34] <Demedais> "..." Demedais pauses for a long second, considering, before putting up Protection from Evil as he prepares for the demon lying ahead. "Not worth the risk..."
06[21:35] * Seira walks next to Demedais, hands clasped over her staff as it swings from side by side. "Isn't this place grand? I want a summer house like this."
[21:35] <Kotono> Claris nods as you walk up the stairs. A rich hallway is ahead, lit by occasional lamps and with soldiers aplenty. They all stand guard here, alert and eyeing. They do salute the General, however.
[21:35] <Demedais> "I thought Irenes' hideout was going to be your summer palace."
06[21:35] * Seira releases the staff briefly to wave at them before catching it. "No, you silly! It's my secret hideout!"
[21:36] <Demedais> "Ah, right. And Kondrux's lair?"
01[21:36] <Seira> "Too drafty."
[21:36] <Kotono> You walk down to the end, a heavy double door. Two soldiers salute, the door openingly slightly. Olburt turns to the party, "Are you ready?"
06[21:36] * Seira contemplates giving an honest answer.
06[21:37] * Demedais uses detect chaos and looks around himself carefully before turning back to Olburt.
06[21:38] * Demedais blinks ahead. "I already dislike the fact that detect chaos fails to work ahead."
[21:38] <Alicia> "I suppose casting any protective spells at this juncture would be seen as a lack of trust," Alicia muses. "Perhaps they won't even be necessary... but I haven't lived this long by being reckless. A simple spell of protection will have to suffice, for now." At that she casts shield, worrying about what lies beyond the magic blocking barrier.
06[21:38] * Seira mirrors Alicia's action happily!
06[21:39] * Demedais looks to Olburt calmly. "Once they are done... let us go." And to Claris, "Can you see the invisible?"
[21:39] <Kotono> "I can reveal them if I must," Claris breathes out several times, looking ahead.
[21:40] <Kotono> Olburt scowls. "Enough of that. Do you think I'm going to stand here and watch you cast spells before going to meet His Majesty?"
[21:40] <Demedais> "That may be needed." Demedais muses, looking ahead. "You two ready?"
01[21:40] <Seira> "Pretty!" Seira glances at Demedais. "Sure thing!"
[21:40] <Alicia> "I'm sure Ferdi has more than enough protections of his own to rival ours," Alicia replies levelly. "Let us proceed."
[21:41] <Demedais> "...You are saying we should walk in unprepared when we believe your liege's life is at stake?" Demedais returns. "Open the door, and let us see."
01[21:41] <Seira> "We are forever safe from the evil magical missiles," Seira whispers to Demedais conspiratorially.
06[21:42] * Demedais eyes Seira. "Congratulations."
06[21:43] * Seira giggles to herself.
06[21:49] * Demedais raises an eyebrow.
[21:51] <Kotono> The doors open! Ahead you see strong, stout guards in full plate armor about, ten of them. There are two more at either side of Ferdi's throne. But that's not what gets your attention. Instead, it washes over you. A feeling of awe, a feeling of raw presence so mighty as to make you look at it, make you see it. Ferdi sits, wearing elaborate full armor. He sheds no light yet looking at his face is somehow difficult and yet oh so desirable on an
[21:51] <Kotono> oh so desirable on another level. "Your Majesty," General Olburt deeply bows. "They'v arrived."
[21:52] <Alicia> 'Can he even be called a man, any more?' Alicia wonders, calling upon all of her discipline to school her expression, not wanting to give anything away to Ferdi.
06[21:52] * Demedais tries Detect Chaos again, still wondering.
06[21:53] * Seira leans back and forth, looking all over the place in awe.
[21:54] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6 I think this is right.
06[21:54] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 I think this is right. and gets 16."12 [1d20=10]
[21:54] <Kotono> "You've come." King Ferdi smiles, "I had hoped you would have come before, but that is in the past now."
01[21:54] <Seira> "Minor delays," Seira tells him distractedly. "Sorry!"
06[21:57] * Demedais raises one eyebrow, steeling himself against this effect. "We have come to understand your interest was not in Balmuria, but in us?"
[21:58] <Kotono> "I'm honored," Ferdi goes on, his voice sounding like the only thing in the room. IT seems to naturally drown out other sound, dimming your awareness if you listen to it too intently. "One of my interests are the few people in this world both powerful and competent. You more than fulfill both those."
[21:59] <Alicia> "And the rest are mere chaff to be sacrificed in your unprovoked war?" Alicia asks, focusing all her hatred at this disgusting man to overpower his grandiose presence in her mind.
06[22:00] * Demedais raises the other eyebrow, letting Alicia speak for now as he focuses on keeping his mind as clear as possible.
[22:00] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18
06[22:00] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 and gets 25."12 [1d20=7]
[22:00] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 go away, evil miasma!
06[22:00] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 go away, evil miasma! and gets 24."12 [1d20=8]
[22:00] <Alicia> OOC: +2 if magic circle helps
[22:02] <Alicia> 'Hell Striker...' Alicia silently pleads with her sword, 'If I lose control, I want you to overpower me like you did when I first held you, and don't stop until Ferdi is dead, do you understand?'
06[22:03] * Demedais softly growls, waiting for a response.
[22:03] <Kotono> "I regret that there are casualties..." Ferdi does admit that, "But change is never without bloodshed. With the Gods having withdrawn so long ago, we are on our own to change the world."
[22:03] <Kotono> (More)
[22:04] <Kotono> "The world was once different until the war against the God King. Now, we are given a chance to change that and remake the world again. Once again it will be our blood, sweat and tears as we do, but we have the chance. I will do so."
01[22:05] <Seira> "This is not strictly true," Seira interjects, still looking at the walls with admiration. "The gods are present, especially nowadays."
[22:06] <Demedais> "Correction: I have talked to Helm face to face, Seira's spoken to Waukeen, and angels fight devils in the Desert Kingdom. Clearly we have some backup." Demedais says calmly. "We have a chance to do so, yes. It will take much, yes. A war is an incredibly stupid way to do it. I asked Olburt, but I get to ask you now!"
[22:06] <Alicia> 'Better dead than betraying everything I've fought for as his... slave,' Alicia replies grimly, clenching her fists tight enough to turn her knuckles white as she maintains her presence of mind, letting Demedais handle the talking for the moment. Perhaps reason will prevail.
[22:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
06[22:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 29."12 [1d20=18]
01[22:06] <Seira> "What Demedais said," Seira agrees, leaning on his shoulder while placing the staff against the ground.
[22:07] <Kotono> "Due to your works." Ferdi agrees to that. "However...the ones in the Baronies are not suitable to it. Due to the incompetence of Malmuth's previous rulers, they splintered away. I do not blame them for it at the time. My newphew even let this stand, frittering away Malmuth's rights to the most important place in the world." (More)
[22:10] <Kotono> "However, I am far more suiting. Malmuth is meant to be the ones in the ruins, freeing the Gods and gaining this great favor." Ferdi stands up at this, the Second Resort hanging at his belt in a simple sheath. "I am to set right what went horribly wrong before, and I ask of you to help me. You have shown your skill time and time again and over. I bear none ofyou four any malice, but instead ask that you stand with me." The feeling in the room
[22:13] <Kotono> The feeling in the room grows stronger, overwhelming. "In his mad works, Irenes found many a thing and worked on others. He consorted with demons, dissected creatures and plumbed long forgotten knowledge. At the height of his work, he discovered a tiny shard of the God King's power." His smile grows, "This...and this..." His hand goes to the Second Resort, "Further mark me as the one."
01[22:14] <Seira> "Actually, if the most qualified mortal is to rule all of the Baronies and Malmuth," Seira asks innocently, "then shouldn't it be me?"
[22:14] <Alicia> "What can be set right when you embrace the perversity of the Abyss?" Alicia growls. "We have seen the nature of your 'gifts' to General Olburt, even as they proved lacking to our own skills. Turn away from this insanity, King Ferdi, while you still ca-" she then cuts short, all steam knocked out by Seira's statement.
[22:14] <Demedais> "Did any of the minds in this entire situation ever consider just... you know... ASKING US?!? Without war, without bloodshed, without violence? We could've just, you know, worked together to do this? This war is completely nonsensical. If you wanted to take part, there are three little magical words. 'Let me help'! It's that blessedly easy." (more)
[22:15] <Kotono> Claris licks his lips, "Your Majesty," he looks on, "What have you embraced, though? Irenes was a heretic and the face of evil desire! What have you done to Pallan and General Olburt?!" He says, but stops at Seira's words. "...uh..." Between that and Demedais, his words are neatly cut off.
[22:16] <Demedais> "Furthermore, by asking us and getting permission, you pretty much not only have a direct hand in the activities of the ruins, but the events unfolding therein, even if you believe Balmuria, for some bizarre reason, to be incompetent - something I'd hotly contest! Idly, ignore Seira, this is her sarcastic side. I think." (More)
01[22:18] <Seira> "My honest side, they sound a lot alike so I don't blame you," Seira interjects.
[22:19] <Demedais> "Thirdly, I hate to have to point out the obvious, but, uh, taking upon the powers of a mad wanna-be god is not exactly the wisest road to power, you know? As bad as a demonic bargain..." A look to Seira, revealing nothing, "...if not worse, and just as stupid because it quite possibly gives said evil crazy god a foothold into this world. Does this make sense?" Demedais says in frustration, glaring him dead with all the fury he has.
[22:21] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[22:21] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 17."12 [1d20=7]
[22:22] <Kotono> To that, Ferdi simply smiles. "You hold one of the tokens of the God King yourself," he says, looking at the Fifth Resort near Demedais. "I see not the Gods striking you down, either."
06[22:23] * Seira hefts the staff, slinging it over one shoulder. "He's still in control of his faculties, though. Perhaps due to my stellar example?"
[22:23] <Demedais> "I refer to the part you apparently ingested. Remember, the Resorts were used by the Gods to seal him in for his idiocy."
06[22:23] * Demedais eyes Seira for a long second.
01[22:23] <Seira> "Can't it be the stellar example? Just this once?" she not quite whines.
[22:24] <Demedais> "I... you... no. No, it can't. Maybe another time, but no."
[22:25] <Kotono> "Then..." Ferdi bows his head. "You mean that you will stand apart from me, then?"
01[22:25] <Seira> "Getting back on track," Seira says with a pout. "How about we call this war off? Good times will be had for everyone!"
03[22:25] * NeremWo (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
06[22:26] * Seira snaps her fingertips. "Please undo the nasty stuff you did to Pallan and Olburt, too."
[22:27] <Kotono> "That sounds entirely like a no," Ferdi observes. "You seem to have chosen your own paths?"
02[22:27] * NeremWorld (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
01[22:28] <Seira> "You do admit that you've done something unnatural and demonic to those two, then?" Seira asks him suddenly. "Well, that's one question answered. Out loud. Not that I didn't know the answer to it or anything."
[22:30] <Demedais> "You chose yours with this pointless war." Demedais says. "Doesn't even feel like you're listening to us at all. Which further reinforces my belief that something very dangerous is moving your hand for you." Demedais tries one last time to sweep for chaos, guessing it'll be futile since he should at least be able to detect Seira.
[22:31] <Kotono> General Olburt still stands just in front of the party. "No, I think that I must do it this way. I apologise for your sakes, but this must be done...!" At that, the feeling in the room grows overwhelming! The raw sense of presence is too much! OOC - Make will saves, all.
[22:31] <Alicia> OOC: sec, I was lining!
01[22:31] <Seira> "Once we perish in utter agony for not submitting," Seira mentions to Olburt, "go and seek out the temple of Waukeen in Balmuria. Drop my name and they'll fix you up!"
[22:31] <Kotono> OOC: Okay, sure, line away then.
[22:32] <Alicia> "I would never serve one such as you," Alicia seethes. "My will is my own, and will not be suborned by the machinations of the Abyss." As she speaks, her sluggish mind whirls. He's on the same steps that lead to Daa-vid, perhaps a far lower level, but even so... a power that rivals the gods suffuses him. She fears no mortal, but this pressure is beyond anything mortal could achieve.
[22:32] <Alicia> Reaching for her belt pouch, she opens it and slides a hand inside to flip open the tiny lead box within, fingering an unadorned ring. 'This is what you were built to fight,' she says in her head, hoping the artifact can understand her. 'I may not be strong enough on my own, but I'm the only mortal that stands a chance at preventing another Daa-vid that's in a position to use you.'
[22:32] <Alicia> 'I've fought dragons and greater fiends without flinching, I've stolen away innocents from the depths of hell itself... and I slew your unworthy previous master myself. If that doesn't qualify me, nothing will. So help me, dammit!' she urges, before slipping the Ring of Eternal Celerity around her finger.
[22:34] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 oh f***ing hell, making this role while they line just for reference.
06[22:34] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 oh f***ing hell, making this role while they line just for reference. and gets 29."12 [1d20=18]
[22:35] <Alicia> roll 1d20+40
06[22:35] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+40 and gets 50."12 [1d20=10]
01[22:35] <Seira> roll 1d20+11
06[22:35] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+11 and gets 20."12 [1d20=9]
[22:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+40
06[22:36] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+40 and gets 59."12 [1d20=19]
[22:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18 will
06[22:46] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 will and gets 20."12 [1d20=2]
[22:46] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
06[22:46] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 18."12 [1d20=7]
[22:50] <Kotono> Claris goes slack, staring and going to a knee. "Good..." Ferdi looks at Claris, as he looks at the other three, waiting.
[22:51] <Alicia> Alicia's expression goes blank for a second, before her expression settles into one of grim, though slightly detached, determination. Smoothly she reaches back to draw Hell Striker, a golden ring glittering on her finger as she whips the blade forward into a ready stance, embers trailing behind it.
[22:51] <Alicia> OOC: raging
06[22:51] * Seira lowers slowly, staring at the floor. She places her staff before her, kneeling with her head touching the floor.
[22:51] <Demedais> "All you are - ALL YOU ARE - is a foolish human!" Demedais says slowly, but clearly. "You dream of standing amongst the gods, committing the same folly the false god did. All you are is mortal - perhaps powerful, but Ferdi, a mortal human. And the only one to whom I will bow is Helm! Prepare to end here!"
[22:52] <Kotono> OOC - Initiative.
[22:52] <Alicia> roll 1d20+4
06[22:52] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+4 and gets 20."12 [1d20=16]
[22:52] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 diediediediedieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee ferdikin~
06[22:52] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 diediediediedieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee ferdikin~ and gets 19."12 [1d20=18]
[22:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 Ferdi
06[22:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 Ferdi and gets 24."12 [1d20=19]
[22:53] <Kotono> roll 1d20+1 group for standing soldiers
06[22:53] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+1 group for standing soldiers and gets 21."12 [1d20=20]
[22:53] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8 Olburt
06[22:53] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 Olburt and gets 14."12 [1d20=6]
03[22:55] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Ferdi>Soldiers>Alicia>Demedais'
[22:56] <Kotono> OOC - Roll an initiative, Seira.
[22:56] <Kotono> OOC - IN case it's needed.
01[22:56] <Seira> roll 1d20+5
[22:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
06[22:56] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 and gets 19."12 [1d20=17]
06[22:56] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+5 and gets 25."12 [1d20=20]
03[22:56] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Seira>Ferdi>Soldiers>Alicia>Demedais=Claris>Olburt'
01[22:58] <Seira> roll 1d20+11
06[22:59] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+11 and gets 22."12 [1d20=11]
[23:01] <Kotono> Ferdi smiles as he watches, "Come then," he says, as power flows around him! He seems to grow stronger, more intimidating! Meanwhile, the soldiers race out! The two in front of Ferdi stand guard, while the other ten act! Two go to Demedais and Alicia, while six go to the doors, openining them!
[23:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 Deme 1
[23:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 Deme 1
06[23:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 Deme 1 and gets 22."12 [1d20=16]
06[23:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 Deme 1 and gets 9."12 [1d20=3]
[23:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 Alicia 1
[23:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 Alicia 1
06[23:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 Alicia 1 and gets 15."12 [1d20=9]
06[23:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 Alicia 1 and gets 13."12 [1d20=7]
[23:02] <Kotono> The blows are deflected for now, however! OOC - Alicia.
06[23:03] * Alicia tumbles away from the soldiers, gaze focused on Ferdi even as she mechanically proceeds to cast a spell, doubling her size once she's sufficiently far from all of them to avoid further attack and provide a straight line to Ferdi.
[23:04] <Alicia> roll 1d20+12 DC 15 tumble
06[23:04] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+12 DC 15 tumble and gets 31."12 [1d20=19]
[23:04] <Kotono> Alicia expands, the spell cast as she dives away! Ferdi looks on, "Do you think simple magic can defeat me?" he asks of Alicia, raising an eyebrow. OOC - Deme.
06[23:06] * Demedais unleashes an unearthly growl, remembering the sound of the golden dragon's call and trying to match it as best he can while diving headfirst into melee with the two soldiers!
[23:06] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13 (+1 Haste -3 PA)
06[23:06] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+13 (+1 Haste -3 PA) and gets 32."12 [1d20=19]
[23:06] <Kotono> OOC - The two soldiers around you? Also, crit check of ow.
[23:07] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13 (+1 Haste -3 PA) crit check, I would hope this hits, also yes, the two around me.
06[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+13 (+1 Haste -3 PA) crit check, I would hope this hits, also yes, the two around me. and gets 23."12 [1d20=10]
[23:07] <Kotono> OOC - Crit.
[23:07] <Demedais> roll 4d6+26
06[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 4d6+26 and gets 39."12 [4d6=5, 4, 3, 1]
[23:07] <Demedais> roll 2d6 holy maybe?
06[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d6 holy maybe? and gets 9."12 [2d6=4, 5]
[23:07] <Kotono> OOC - Cleave.
[23:08] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13 whack whack whack
06[23:08] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+13 whack whack whack and gets 22."12 [1d20=9]
[23:08] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[23:08] <Demedais> roll 2d6+13+2d6 (last 2d6 is holy)
06[23:08] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d6+13+2d6 (last 2d6 is holy) and gets 18."12 [2d6=1, 1][2d6=2, 1]
[23:09] <Kotono> OOC - Attack 2.
[23:09] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13
06[23:09] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+13 and gets 25."12 [1d20=12]
[23:09] <Demedais> roll 2d6+13+2d6 (last 2d6 is holy)
06[23:09] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d6+13+2d6 (last 2d6 is holy) and gets 27."12 [2d6=4, 4][2d6=1, 5]
[23:09] <Kotono> OOC - Downed, no more targets in range
[23:09] <Kotono> .
[23:09] <Demedais> OOC: Did my roar maybe trigger the statue? >_>;
[23:12] <Kotono> Whirling like a tornado, Demedais strikes down both of them at once! They go down, but there are many more! General Olburt turns, drawing his weapons and advancing to Demedais! He only has position to lash out once, however. "You..." he says slowly, voice slow. "I won't let you hurt His Majesty!"
[23:12] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
06[23:12] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 and gets 25."12 [1d20=7]
[23:12] <Kotono> But the blow clangs off the Fifth Resort, deflected by it's gem covered front! OOC - Seira.
01[23:12] <Seira> "USURPER!" Seira roars with a voice not her own, launching to a crouch. Snarling, she reaches for her pack towards the golden dragon statue, revealing it, before another roar escapes her. She remembers not when she heard it, or how, but knows well its purpose -- to summon the strongest vessel to slay the vile God-King with! "KILL HIM!" she shrieks in a dozen languages mixing together. "KILL HIM!"
[23:13] <Demedais> "Does this sound like the king you pledged your loyalty to, Olburt?!" Demedais challenges. "Is this the man you have known?"
06[23:13] * Demedais then pauses momentaraily. "Well, that works. Was hoping my attempt to call him would work, but hey, you know."
[23:16] <Kotono> roll 1d2
06[23:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d2 and gets 2."12 [1d2=2]
03[23:18] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Seira=Gold Dragon>Ferdi>Soldiers>Alicia>Demedais=Claris>Olburt'
[23:18] <Kotono> The dragon statue shines, shimmers...and breaks in the last rays of the sunset!  IN a moment, the ceiling explodes outwards! Sunlight's last gasps come racing in as rubble falls down! For what displaced it is a large golden dragon! "Who has summoned me?" it bellows. OOC
[23:19] <Kotono> The dragon statue shines, shimmers...and breaks in the last rays of the sunset!  IN a moment, the ceiling explodes outwards! Sunlight's last gasps come racing in as rubble falls down! For what displaced it is a large golden dragon! "Who has summoned me?" it bellows. OOC - Dragon's here but it's assessing the situation and trying to get the what's up.
[23:20] <Kotono> Ferdi looks up, honest surprise as the ceiling rains down around you, shattered! "Dragon?" he says, almost dumbly a moment.
[23:20] <Demedais> "We have, sir dragon! The being in front of you - the man with the powerful magic sword - seeks harm against this world! We request your assistance in defeating him, or if there is demonic force upon him, removing it here and now! Yes! Dragon! The Crimson Guard may be mad to take on you without the support of our army, but we aren't dumb, by Helm!"
[23:21] <Kotono> "YOU!" The dragon's voice is like a terrible bellow, rocking all around! "THE WRATH OF THE GODS FALLS ON YOU, HERETIC! BEGONE FROM THIS WORLD!" With that, it draws up and a great flaming cone of fire erupts at Ferdi!
[23:22] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
06[23:22] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 24."12 [1d20=7]
[23:22] <Demedais> "Well, okay, maybe idiocy chips in, but to suggest we don't have a trum- ...kay."
[23:24] <Kotono> roll 24d10
06[23:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 24d10 and gets 141."12 [24d10=5, 10, 4, 4, 5, 9, 3, 9, 9, 2, 5, 2, 6, 3, 5, 9, 4, 10, 5, 7, 8, 5, 4, 8]
[23:25] <Kotono> The blast of fire erupts around Ferdi! Everything behind him is melted slag as far as you can see, the building devastated! Ferdi himself is burnt up but lives, staggering! He shudders all over, but marshalls his power! "Bow to me," he calls to the dragon!
[23:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+33
06[23:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+33 and gets 37."12 [1d20=4]
[23:25] <Demedais> "Also, good to know he -was- a God-King emulation. Figures as much." Demedais continues muttering, realizing no one else is speaking in embarrassment.
[23:26] <Kotono> But the dragon does not seem impressed at all! OOC - Making frightful presence saves for the soldiers now.
[23:26] <Kotono> OOC - ...'cept I don't thinkey can make it. Oi.
[23:26] <Kotono> The soldiers, seeing this mammoth sight, do the logical thing! They turn and flee in complete terror, will broken! OOC - Alicia.
[23:27] <Alicia> Hell Striker feels some satisfaction at the appearance of such an ally, but stays true to its grim purpose of fighting in Alicia's stead, charging Ferdi to flip the sword from his hands with one powerful upward stroke!
[23:27] <Kotono> OOC - You have reach, don't you?
[23:27] <Alicia> roll 1d20+26 channeling 3rd level spell, opposed attack rolls
06[23:27] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+26 channeling 3rd level spell, opposed attack rolls and gets 42."12 [1d20=16]
[23:27] <Alicia> OOC: I do
[23:28] <Alicia> OOC: so no AoO
[23:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+28
06[23:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+28 and gets 32."12 [1d20=4]
[23:29] <Kotono> Blasted by fire and dazed horribly, Ferdi can't hold on! Alicia disarms him with one swipe of her sword, sending the unscorched Second Resort to the half melted ground! OOC - Demedais.
[23:31] <Demedais> "Sorry, Olburt, but... Gold dragon and crazy Seira confirms your king's been replaced by a false god. 'fraid I can't let that stand." Demedais says with a slight grin. "My most sincere of apologies, but..." With that, he sidesteps past Olburt and quickly moves to end this with one final slash at King Ferdi!
[23:31] <Demedais> OOC: If this triggers an AoO, I take it.
[23:40] <Kotono> OOC - It does.
[23:40] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
06[23:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 and gets 35."12 [1d20=17]
[23:40] <Kotono> OOC - AC?
[23:41] <Demedais> OOC: Hit. AC 31.
[23:41] <Kotono> roll 1d8+11
06[23:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+11 and gets 15."12 [1d8=4]
[23:41] <Kotono> "No further!" Olburt counters with a slash into Deme's ribs, but it's not a deep wound.
[23:43] <Demedais> "Yeah okay." Demedais growls at the connect, before continuing to move past Olburt, before finally breaking into a sprint and charging at the other side of King Ferdi, imbuing his blade with as much of Helm's divine power as he can to pierce Ferdi's side and end this once and for all!
[23:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 (+1 Haste +6 Smite +2 Helm +2 Charge +2 Flank -10 PA) going for broke!
06[23:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 (+1 Haste +6 Smite +2 Helm +2 Charge +2 Flank -10 PA) going for broke! and gets 21."12 [1d20=3]
[23:45] <Kotono> Demedais charges, but his blade glances off Ferdi's scorched armor! OOC - Alicia.
01[23:45] <Seira> OOC: Alicia?
01[23:45] <Seira> OOC: Not Olburt, then me?
[23:45] <Kotono> OOC: Oh sorry, brainfart.
[23:45] <Demedais> OOC: Claris -> Olburt -> Seira, yeah..
[23:46] <Kotono> Olburt turns and stares, "Your Majesty," he calls, charging Demedais as...OOC - Making the will save now.
[23:46] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[23:46] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 29."12 [1d20=19]
[23:46] <Kotono> Despite his shaking, he lashes out at Demedais!
[23:46] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 (Charge and shaking cancel out)
06[23:46] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 (Charge and shaking cancel out) and gets 32."12 [1d20=14]
[23:47] <Kotono> roll 1d8+11
06[23:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+11 and gets 16."12 [1d8=5]
[23:47] <Kotono> It's a blow to Deme's back, slashing his shoulderblade open!
06[23:48] * Demedais grimaces, before looking over his shoulder. "Do I have to knock you out until this is over, Olburt?"
01[23:48] <Seira> 7"USURPER DIE12DIE4DIE7," Seira wails, clawing at Ferdi wildly from a distance as a fireball explodes in his face!
01[23:48] <Seira> roll 10d6
06[23:48] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 10d6 and gets 32."12 [10d6=4, 5, 6, 1, 1, 1, 6, 1, 2, 5]
[23:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+12 reflex
06[23:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+12 reflex and gets 32."12 [1d20=20]
[23:48] <Kotono> OOC - Pause there, late as hell.
[23:49] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 lol reflex?
06[23:49] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 lol reflex? and gets 17."12 [1d20=9]
[23:49] <Alicia> OOC: 6/3/5/3 (spells left so I don't forget)
01[23:49] <Seira> OOC: DC17, so Deme saves. But Olburt and Ferdi need to roll!
01[23:50] <Seira> OOC: And dragon goes on my init whee shared kill?

[Corwin]

[17:32] <Kotono> <Seira> "USURPER DIEDIEDIE," Seira wails, clawing at Ferdi wildly from a distance as a fireball explodes in his face!
[17:32] <Kotono> <Seira> roll 10d6
[17:32] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 10d6 and gets 32." [10d6=4, 5, 6, 1, 1, 1, 6, 1, 2, 5]
[17:32] <Kotono> <Alicia> roll 1d20+12 reflex
[17:32] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+12 reflex and gets 32." [1d20=20]
[17:32] <Kotono> > OOC - Pause there, late as hell.
[17:32] <Kotono> <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 lol reflex?
[17:32] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 lol reflex? and gets 17." [1d20=9]
[17:32] <Kotono> <Alicia> OOC: 6/3/5/3 (spells left so I don't forget)
[17:32] <Kotono> <Seira> OOC: DC17, so Deme saves. But Olburt and Ferdi need to roll!
[17:32] <Kotono> <Seira> OOC: And dragon goes on my init whee shared kill?
01[17:32] <Seira> roll 1d20+11
06[17:32] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+11 and gets 21."12 [1d20=10]
[17:33] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
06[17:33] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 21."12 [1d20=4]
03[17:34] * Alicia sets mode: +o Demedais
[17:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13
06[17:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 and gets 31."12 [1d20=18]
[17:35] <Kotono> The explosive blast levels all around! It's not in th eleague of the DRAGON'S breath, but it does batter everyone there but Demedais! He is not even heated up, let alone burned! However, the dragon's not done yet! It's great, huge neck rears down as it attempts to chomp King Ferdi in half!
[17:37] <Kotono> roll 1d20+51
06[17:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+51 and gets 71."12 [1d20=20]
[17:37] <Kotono> roll 1d20+51 oh dear God.
06[17:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+51 oh dear God. and gets 53."12 [1d20=2]
[17:38] <Kotono> roll 8d8+32
06[17:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 8d8+32 and gets 65."12 [8d8=2, 1, 3, 2, 2, 8, 8, 7]
[17:42] <Kotono> Ferdi is bitten! He is chomped in hal-no! Despite his front and back gushing blood out, just like Seira not long ago, he manages to rip himself out of the dragon's grasp! He wobbles despite the heavy wounding, still alive! "Guh..." he coughs weakly, a burst of energy over his wounds! It seems to soothe them, somewhat undoing the damage done!
[17:42] <Kotono> roll 4d8+14
06[17:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d8+14 and gets 34."12 [4d8=6, 4, 3, 7]
[17:42] <Kotono> OOC - Alicia.
[17:44] <Alicia> Ferdi is still alive, and per Alicia's orders, Hell Striker cannot rest until that is rectified. While Alicia may pace herself more to be ready for future battles to come, the sword has no such considerations, and freely expends as much arcane power as her body can channel, the words to a spell passing her lips to turn its blades into insubstantial mist as she slashes at Ferdi with a grim fury.
[17:45] <Alicia> OOC: casting wraithstrike, chanelling 1 level 3, 1 level 2, and 4 level 1 slots.
[17:45] <Alicia> roll 1d20+20 fire
06[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+20 fire and gets 34."12 [1d20=14]
[17:45] <Alicia> roll 1d20+19 holy
06[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+19 holy and gets 28."12 [1d20=9]
[17:45] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 fire
06[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 fire and gets 33."12 [1d20=18]
[17:45] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14 holy
06[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+14 holy and gets 25."12 [1d20=11]
[17:45] <Alicia> OOC: any SR or fire resistance?
[17:46] <Kotono> OOC - Four hits. No SR. Roll the fire damage seperately.
[17:46] <Alicia> roll 8d6+34+4d6+36d4+5d4+5 slashing and holy and force
06[17:46] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 8d6+34+4d6+36d4+5d4+5 slashing and holy and force and gets 188."12 [8d6=3, 5, 3, 3, 2, 5, 6, 1][4d6=6, 3, 6, ][5d4=3, 4, 4, 2, 1]
[17:46] <Alicia> roll 4d6 fire
06[17:46] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 4d6 fire and gets 20."12 [4d6=5, 6, 4, 5]
[17:46] <Alicia> roll 4d6 fire
06[17:46] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 4d6 fire and gets 18."12 [4d6=5, 4, 4, 5]
[17:47] <Alicia> roll 1d6 fire
06[17:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d6 fire and gets 4."12 [1d6=4]
[17:47] <Alicia> roll 1d6 fire
06[17:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d6 fire and gets 3."12 [1d6=3]
[17:48] <Alicia> OOC: add 8 slashing damage, forgot rage
[17:50] <Kotono> The smaller bursts of fire don't work so well. They don't seem to do much, but the arcane infused sword does far more! Having been pushed to his limit by th erest of the party, Hell Striker/Alicia's savagery is too much! Ferdi's ribs are shattered, his legs severed, his chest torn open, his neck sliced! His body is falling apart, torn to it's limit. "No..." he gasps out, "...!" He tries to say something else, but instead topples back! For a m
[17:50] <Kotono> but instead topples back! For a moment there is pristine, flawless calm in the air...(More)
[17:53] <Kotono> Then Ferdi gets up. His body is ruined, many parts missing. Insteadit glows with light, filling in the gaps. His face is a twisted mask of agony as he stumbles forward once, reaching out for the Second Resort! But this lasts only a moment, before the light fades and he collapses. (More in PMs for a few of you.)
[17:54] <Kotono> "Noooo...!" Into the dusk sky, Ferdi's moaning voice is heard, and then once again great silence.
01[17:54] <Seira> roll 1d20+10
06[17:54] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+10 and gets 17."12 [1d20=7]
[17:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
06[17:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 22."12 [1d20=16]
06[17:55] * Demedais looks to Olburt at this, wordlessly, for only a moment, before looking to the great wyrm. "So he was an agent of the God King?"
06[17:57] * Seira reaches out to the second resort, willing it over silently, hilt first.
[17:57] <Kotono> "My duty is done..." The great golden dragon rumbles. "A shadow of the power of the Fairest Star."
[17:58] <Alicia> As Ferdi expires, Alicia blinks a few times, her body seeming to visibly sag as she leans on the blade of her sword, sweat slick upon her brow while her chest heaves with deep breaths of air. She doesn't appear entirely aware of her surroundings.
06[17:58] * Demedais inclines his head once. "And we thank you for it, sir. That power... had devoured him?"
[17:58] <Alicia> OOC: rage ended, now fatigued until encounter ends
[17:59] <Kotono> The Second Resort flies to Seira without incident, coming into her hand.
01[17:59] <Seira> roll 1d20+10
06[17:59] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+10 and gets 19."12 [1d20=9]
[17:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
06[17:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 7."12 [1d20=1]
06[17:59] * Seira stares at the sword curiously, swinging it a few times with a strange lethargy.
06[18:00] * Seira caresses the metal surface with a whimsical smile.
[18:00] <Kotono> Olburt turns and looks. He just stares, unbelieving.
[18:00] <Kotono> Out past the destroyed, burnt backhouse, you can see Valandia. The cit looks to be in some sort of panic, soldiers rushing baout like mad.
[18:01] <Kotono> "Ugh.." Claris's voice can be heard, as he slowly begins to get up.
[18:01] <Demedais> "Also..." Demedais looks to his allies, to Olburt, and the toward the door. "...I suspect my allies are still disoriented from Ferdi's attempt at brainwashing... I would request assistance in healing them if it can be provided. Seeing as how you and I seem to be the only ones capable of anything resembling speech currently."
[18:01] <Kotono> The dragon's shape shimmers in the last bits of natural light, before fading away into whence it came.
01[18:02] <Seira> "It's... fine," Seira says slowly. "The soldiers... stop them instead, Olburt. We don't want to kill any more of them, who follow the Usurper unknowingly."
[18:02] <Kotono> Olburt continues to stare at what's left of King Ferdi, before falling to his knees. "Your Majesty..." he says weakly, in a voice of great pain.
[18:02] <Alicia> "I did it..." Alicia murmurs, holding up a hand that bears a simple golden ring, while the other still clutches Hell Striker tightly. "I did it without any of your help, you bastard, and you still say I'm not good enough?" she hisses, glaring murderously at her ring finger. "I don't *need* you."
[18:04] <Demedais> "Or you could go now. I guess that'd work. Thank you, sir dragon." Demedais says with a half-shrug, before looking to his allies, first Alicia in confusion and then Seira in agreement. "Do you need help, Claris, Alicia, Seira... Olburt?"
01[18:04] <Seira> "Demedais," Seira calls over to the paladin. "Got a restoration? If Olburt doesn't listen to me, I'll need to do it myself."
[18:04] <Kotono> Claris gets up, looking at Ferdi before murmuring a prayer. "I'm fine."
[18:05] <Demedais> "Do what yourself?"
[18:05] <Demedais> "Or rather, I should ask; who do you want restored? Olburt?"
01[18:06] <Seira> Eyes shining with a touch of madness, Seira drags herself unsteadily over to Ferdi's corpse, before bringing the resort on his neck. "Make the soldiers listen with a prop."
[18:07] <Alicia> "To hell with you," Alicia scowls, plucking the ring off and replacing it back in its lead box. "He's dead, but we'll need to thoroughly destroy the body before we leave," she tells Seira. "Unless you want to find out what a competent necromancer could do with such an empowered shell." 'Thank you, Hell Striker,' she silently tells her sword. 'You certainly saved me from a fate worse than death.'
[18:08] <Demedais> "Seira, put his body down. The soldiers will listen." Demedais says calmly, if steely, as he puts his hand on her shoulder and pulls her away a bit, releasing a restoration magic into her at the same time. "Are you okay, Seira?"
01[18:09] <Seira> "They better," she says, sighing at the magic. "If I am forced to slay them by the hundreds as I retreat, I am quitting this job and putting it all behind me."
[18:09] <Kotono> Alicia realises something - The ring isn't coming off. It's like trying to rip away part of herself.
06[18:10] * Alicia fiddles with the ring for a moment longer before just giving up in complete exasparation. "What now?" she hisses, turning away from the others. "I passed your little test to justify my existence, didn't I?"
[18:11] <Kotono> Claris looks at Alicia oddly, then at SEira, before tiredly shaking his head. "What in the Hells are going on now?"
01[18:11] <Seira> "I did not sign up to kill people for no reason, you know?" she tells Demedais, looking out into the panicking city. "It was to protect and to lead, but not in a pointless conflict like this. Hmph."
[18:11] <Kotono> Olburt turns at last, looking at Demedais and then Seira tiredly. "Congratulations," he says, voice sounding hollow.
06[18:12] * Demedais looks to Alicia for a long moment. "Alicia, are you alright?" Then to Claris. "No clue." Finally, to Olburt, "Even the dragon saw the taint of the God-King seeming to devour Ferdi. He was, I do not think, the man you swore your allegiance to any longer."
01[18:13] <Seira> "Hey, General? I thought it over, and just leading us over here is not a sufficient enough wager when pitted against my own life. We are here, now, and we're not leaving until the war is stopped for good, and you are going to do that to cover your bet."
06[18:13] * Alicia clenches her fist in absolute fury, still not turning to the others. "I'm fine," she replies tersely to Demedais. 'What demand?' she asks incredulously. 'I already did what it asked!'
[18:15] <Kotono> Olburt looks back once, before drawing his weapons. "With the authority as a General of Malmuth, I'm placing the four of you in my custody." His voice is cold, very cold and very very tight. "Don't resist - the only way out is through an ocean of blood. This matter...it has to have justice and the law brought to it now. There's nothing else with...His Majesty gone."
06[18:17] * Seira throws her head back and laughs bitterly. "So you've chosen to make me slaughter all those who have no chance against me?"
[18:18] <Alicia> 'What more can I do?' Alicia asks despairingly. 'Gah, nevermind, I'll settle it later.' She turns towards Olburt, "General, our two countries are currently at war. We came on a mission of peace, and were instead threatened with enslavement. We defended ourselves, and put lie to the myth of Ferdi's invincibility. Do you believe you have either the right or the power to detain us?" she asks harshly.
[18:20] <Kotono> "You are guilty of regicide. I have all the reason in the world to detain you," he responds. Then, for a moment, "...please. I can't let you walk away from this and be an officer of Malmuth. I know full well you'll take down dozens and dozens and dozens as you attempt to escape. Perhaps the new King will be merciful."
01[18:21] <Seira> "Waukeen was wrong. You are a fool," Seira tells him coldly, glaring. "Regicide? Killing the head of an enemy state in self-defense?"
06[18:22] * Demedais stares at Olburt, coldly, before shaking his head once, practically wordless, as he moves to Alicia to restore her as well, seeing some exhaustion there as well. "We can actually probably get out without killing many. Seira is good like that. But that is beside the point... Is your duty to vengeance, now, or to the people of Malmuth? Again, I pose such a question; this will send the country into chaos. ...Would the King Ferdi you once knew have want
[18:23] <Demedais> " ...Would the King Ferdi you once knew have wanted his country to survive the chaos of his death?"
[18:24] <Alicia> "Hmph, I heard Ferdi became king by murdering his cousin," Alicia snorts, before giving Demedais a grateful nod at his restoration. "Does that make me Queen, now? I wonder who could stop me if I declared myself such?" She then runs a hand over her form, the scorch burns on her flesh vanishing in an instant. "Don't be a fool, General."
[18:25] <Kotono> "Olburt, please." Claris steps forward, "They're right. With what I've seen over the past months, I know that His Majesty lost himself to his power. These three saved our Empire and are still needed and still important for so many things. If you must, take me. I'm still of Malmuth and I'll answer to any crimes a new king sees fit to lay. But let these three go - with His Majesty gone, they're the ones who have to finish things and the ruins."
[18:30] <Kotono> Olburt listens toa ll of it, before letting his mace fall to the ground. He looks at all of them, death in his eyes. "Bastards..." he says, "...fine, go. This war is as good as lost with His Majesty dead." He sounds bitter, angry and sharp.
[18:31] <Alicia> "You reap what you sow," Alicia tells him. "As a word of advice, I'd look into getting rid of any favours Ferdi bestowed upon you. Useful as they are now, you may find they serve you far worse in the next life."
01[18:32] <Seira> "They weren't terribly useful," Seira says with a snort, and then casts a simple spell, looking around the room.
06[18:32] * Demedais looks to Olburt once, before nodding silently. "Thank you." To Seira, "Do you have spells of invisibility prepared, to leave without hassle?"
01[18:33] <Seira> "The armor," Seira says instead, pointing at Ferdi's fallen form with the Resort. "Is it evil and must be destroyed?"
06[18:33] * Alicia takes a look.
[18:34] <Kotono> Claris begins to pray, meanwhile...
[18:34] <Alicia> "No," Alicia shakes her head. "But I meant what I said earlier - that body has a spark of divine power in its bones. We can't risk a necromancer ever getting hold of it."
01[18:35] <Seira> "Right, then," Seira announces. "Demedais, get the armor off, it'd get in the way. Olburt, look away if you must."
[18:35] <Kotono> General Olburt glares and then marches out of the room.
06[18:36] * Demedais inhales once, looking at Olburt sadly, before taking the armor off.
01[18:36] <Seira> "I asked Claris to prepare several holy and fire spells, a combination of which would rid us of a future problem. Let's just wait until he is ready."
[18:37] <Kotono> The armor, while burnt, is fundamentally undamaged.  What's left of Ferdi's body is rather torn up. "I'm casting the Sending now," he calls back. "We'll do that after and then go back."
[18:37] <Alicia> Since they have a moment, Alicia decides to resume her previous conversation. 'Okay, it said it'd leave me alone if I killed Ferdi - well we did, and now we're finishing the job to make sure he never comes back. It can't just start making these sorts of demands, now!'
06[18:38] * Seira nods, and is prepared to grab the body if Claris is called back before he has a chance to do so.
[18:42] <Kotono> A tense ten minutes pass, then Claris rises. He looks to the body, "Lathander have mercy," he intones, "Good men are sometimes led astray. May the dawn's light lead to correction and rebirth once more." His head bows as he mrumurs, a pillar of fire erupting down from the heavens. The Flame Strike burns what's left of Ferdi's body, leaving only a few bits. Then, "Light of the Heavens strike to wipe away impurity," he casts, as a Holy Smite des
[18:43] <Kotono> as a Holy Smite destroys what lingers.
01[18:46] <Seira> "There's nothing more for us here. May I never return," Seira intones.
[18:46] <Alicia> By now having returned to her normal size, Alicia mutely watches as Ferdi is destroyed. "May we never have reason to," she agrees with Seira.
06[18:47] * Demedais inclines his head. "Helm watch over Malmuth and guide them peaceably through the trials ahead, and assist Olburt in helping Malmuth recover." he murmurs, before looking to Claris.
01[18:47] <Seira> "Fools, what fools."
[18:48] <Kotono> "Seira," Claris very gently speaks now, "They may have been. But this isn't a land of nothing but fools and soldiers, either." He says that, then, "Countess Stronger should begin momentarily."
06[18:49] * Seira nods curtly. "Once it's safe, you should return yourself. Leaving the country in the hands of a man touched by the demonic and not even seeing it himself is madness."
[18:50] <Alicia> "I'd offer assistance, Claris, but I do not think I will ever be welcome in Malmuth," Alicia puts in after Seira's suggestion. "If I ever do come here, again, you can be sure it will only be because things have gone horribly wrong. Again."
06[18:51] * Demedais blinks at this commentary, before looking to Claris.
[18:51] <Kotono> "I know." He smiles to all of them, "I think I will go back in time if I am able. I'd like to see Malmuth become a better place once more. Lathander willing, the long night is coming to an end and the dawn is breaking."
06[18:52] * Demedais nods slowly. "This is not how I had hoped it would go, but..."
[18:53] <Kotono> With moments, it begins. First Alicia, then Seira, then Claris and then at last Demedais. All four appear in Countess Stronger's shop, the redhead looking them over. "Whew." She says as the last appears, "You had us all worried. Wasn't this supposed to be quicker? What happened?"
03[18:53] * Gate-sleeper is now known as Gatewalker
[18:54] <Demedais> "We appeared half a day away from Ferdi." Demedais says simply.
[18:54] <Alicia> "We arrived off target, took us a while to reach Valandia," Alicia explains. "Ferdi was... more powerful than we had expected. But in the end, he was still just a man."
01[18:54] <Seira> "I think the war is stopped, at least."
[18:58] <Kotono> "Good..." Countess Stronger lets out a sigh of relief. A night of rest passes. In the morning, the party gathers with Commander Oberuth. The mood is light, for reports say that the Malmuthian army is falling back. As the group sits, "Congratulations," he says to them, "With Ferdi dead and if this works...you've saved countless lives." he looks toe ach of them in turn.
01[18:58] <Seira> "And we witnessed a tiny portion of the God-King's power," Seira says dejectedly. "That thing is crazy."
06[18:59] * Demedais nods slightly to Oberuth, still silent.
[19:01] <Kotono> "You've done everything in your duties and defeated Malmuth. If this is the end of them...perhaps..." A long sigh out of relief. "This long, drawn out crisis is over. Lord Salman is going to want to see you soon as well for that. As our heroes, you'll be honored greatly." At that, his tone changes, "Still, there are more mundane matters to see to."
[19:02] <Kotono> "Like the God King's poer, for example," He looks to Seira at that, "Was it that incredible?"
[19:03] <Alicia> "He blew away my consciosuness in an instant," Alicia explains unhappily. "It was my body that struck the killing blow, but only because Hell Striker took over for me," she holds up her ornate blade to display.
06[19:05] * Seira shrugs. "The stories are all true. I had no reason to doubt them, but seeing is... believing, I suppose."
[19:06] <Kotono> "Wonderful," OBeruth observes that long, "Then all of you will have a lot of work to do to prepare for later and facing him one day?"
[19:06] <Demedais> "And he granted General Olburt powerful demonc regeneration." Demedais nods.
[19:06] <Demedais> "Yes. It will take a lot, I think, but... ch."
[19:07] <Alicia> "We're a long way from being ready," Alicia grimaces, clenching her fist with the ring on her finger as an unwelcome reminder of her failure to meet the standards demanded.
01[19:07] <Seira> "A mortal can never be a match for that," Seira states firmly. "It's as simple as that."
[19:07] <Demedais> "Not as things stand, no."
01[19:08] <Seira> "I think it is time to revisit Zariel," Seira continues. "Torm's right hand... man? Angelic being? Converted in an instant to the God-King's side, to literally strike back at his former master. While the God-King eliminated the lesser angels over miles with that same single word, in the same time."
06[19:09] * Seira then points to herself. "Me? I have fireball."
[19:09] <Alicia> "We have more pressing concerns for the moment," Alicia comments. "It's no good preparing for the God King if we get swarmed by the Nine Hells long before being ready to face him."
01[19:10] <Seira> "So we're going back to the desert, then?"
06[19:10] * Demedais looks to Oberuth to see if he has any comments.
01[19:10] <Seira> "I'll need a couple weeks here, first. I am ill-prepared for another lengthy journey."
[19:11] <Alicia> "Yes, we have to end this invasion as quickly as we can," Alicia nods. "Past that, Latha seemed to think that we'd find some thing relevant to the God King in the ruins the devils are spilling forth from, so it's still going to be useful in that regard."
[19:12] <Kotono> Oberuth listens to it long, "Your'e the strongest people I know," he admits. "At this point, I trust in the Gods and assume they have an idea on what's going on. So...when things are finalized, no one's going to complain if you go to stop Hell. You'll have our blessings on it. Will you need aide?"
01[19:12] <Seira> "Just that you allow Countess Stronger free time for her to complete my special request."
[19:13] <Demedais> "Possibly, since no one here can wield the Hammer."
06[19:13] * Seira raises an eyebrow, but doesn't speak up at this.
[19:13] <Demedais> "Well, Seira can, I suppose, but."
06[19:13] * Seira smiles in contentment.
06[19:14] * Demedais looks to Seira. "You holding that hammer looks like a child with a toy that's actually a grand piano."
01[19:14] <Seira> "Devils are stupid and underestimate short people who carry a large mallet."
[19:15] <Kotono> "Are you going to take it then, Seira?" Oberuth asks.
[19:15] <Alicia> "Perhaps Donald?" Alicia suggests. "No offence captain, but time you spend hitting things with weapons you're barely practiced in is time you're not casting spells which can be far more useful."
01[19:16] <Seira> "None taken," Seira says with a shrug. "Donald could do the trick, possibly."
[19:16] <Kotono> "He'd be the best chance there. Honestly, I couldn't get away without a lot of effort and probably more time than you'd like to wait. I can try if you feel it's that important," OBeruth's face darkens, "I have no desire to see those devils unchecked, either."
06[19:17] * Demedais returns his gaze to Oberuth, nodding slightly at this. "We will see, perhaps?"
[19:17] <Kotono> "THought...how many are you planning on taking?" Oberuth pauses at that, curious.
01[19:17] <Seira> "Ah!" Seira exclaims. "You may not know what I asked Elle to work on!"
[19:18] <Alicia> "Antenora will certainly be coming," Alicia volunteers. "That's about it from my end, though."
01[19:18] <Seira> "See, it's a ring of teleportation. Our best guarded secret, or so I hope, since it's just plain unfair our friends have those and we don't. So by waiting here, we'll actually end up getting to the desert faster."
[19:19] <Kotono> "Less travel time as well?" Oberuth enquires. "Good. It's a long trip as is from here to the desert.
[19:19] <Kotono> "
[19:22] <Kotono> After saying that and thinking, "Alright, we'll finalise that later. There's other matters. Seira, Celebrimbor came yesterday. We still have the elves cautiously advancing for now, though hopefully this won't be needed." He does stop to reach into his pocket, withdrawing a few letters. "For you and one for your father."
06[19:22] * Seira nods, taking them all.
01[19:23] <Seira> "We might as well have the elves train with our troops, Sir, to increase their experience."
[19:24] <Kotono> "It's a good chance to," Oberuth smiles a bit, "I'll let you know when more news comes from Malmuth. Go and get some rest, all of you have earned it."
06[19:25] * Demedais salutes slightly, before watching the other two for any further commentary.
[19:26] <Alicia> "Thank you, sir," Alicia stands up and salutes, before heading off to deal with the unwelcome squatter on one of her magic item slots.
[19:30] <Kotono> ---
[19:31] <Kotono> Alicia heads back home. Antenora's around back, practicing while Jessica's at the half finished temple. Plenty of time to do what she wants if she wishes...
[19:32] <Alicia> Having already seen both yesterday and reassured them of her continued survival, Alicia has no need to bother either. Sitting within her study, Hell Striker lays horizontally over her lap while she holds up her ring finger and glares balefully at what resides there. "We need to talk, you and I."
[19:36] <Kotono> Ther ing is so warm compared to Alicia's chilly insides. But it doesn't seem to deign to talk immediately.
[19:38] <Alicia> "I know you can talk, so you'd better start right now," Alicia tells the ring, steel in her tone. "I can ask Hell Striker to act as a go-between if you'd rather talk to someone less... animated, but we both know that isn't necessary."
[19:40] <Kotono> No response at all. The ring doesn't seem to be particularly chatty. It just throbs warmer.
06[19:41] * Alicia sighs. "Hell Striker, can you get its attention?" she asks her sword.
[19:42] <Kotono> 'If you wish.' Hell Striker answers dutifully. There's several moments of pitched silence, before the following words echo in Alicia's mind, repeating in a distant cadence. 'Become stronger and master me, or find me a mortal who is worthy.'
02[19:44] * NeremWo (~Ari@pool-71-164-207-139.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[19:44] <Alicia> 'Yes, about that,' Alicia replies in the same mental manner. 'If you can only be worn by the strongest mortal, shouldn't you already know who's stronger than me? That way I can take you right to this *worthy* individual with none of this nonsense. Because if you don't know who's stronger than I am, where do you get off saying I'm not good enough? What do I need to do to prove myself?'
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[19:50] <Kotono> 'Become stronger.' The voice is cold, yet fille dwith warmth. Your warmth. 'Your arrogance blinded you to your inperfection. You are not yet ready.'
[19:54] <Alicia> 'Fine, I'll get stronger. Not like I was going to stop doing that unless I die - which you've so kindly threatened to help me with, I note,' Alicia replies sourly.
[19:54] <Alicia> 'So here's how it'll work - I'll keep wearing you, and suffering this horrible ache inside that you cause, so long as you employ your defences against divinations so I don't have to worry about devils or anyone else peeking at me. If you won't do that, then you come off. Is this acceptable?'
[19:55] <Kotono> 'It's already done.' The voice says that, and then says nothing else.
[19:56] <Alicia> 'Good. Then I'll tolerate your continued presence,' Alicia replies, considering the discussion ended.
[20:07] <Kotono> A little while later, the rest and reverie is disturbed. Antenora enters the study, wearing her armor and gear like she just got off a battle. "Mistress," she bows her head.
[20:09] <Alicia> "Hello, Antenora," Alicia puts aside the book she'd been writing in and nods to the Erinyes. "I've spoken with the others - Seira's commissioned a ring of teleportation from Countess Stronger, so once that's completed we should be able to go to the desert."
03[20:19] * Gatewalker is now known as Gate-cannotbraintoday
[20:19] <Kotono> "Good." She nods, "Mistress..." Antenora begins, "No, aaah. Should I call you Alicia now?"
[20:21] <Alicia> "If you like," Alicia shrugs. "You have called me it before, in unguarded moments," she notes. "In all honesty, it matters little to me. Alicia is fine if it makes you more comfortable."
[20:24] <Kotono> "Alicia." Antenora tries it, "I feel torn between two directions in which I could go now."
[20:24] <Alicia> "Want to talk about it?" Alicia invites, gesturing to a free seat.
[20:26] <Kotono> "It's what I came here to do," Antenora does sit. "Mistress, the vows you've taken, the vows of a paladin? I admit...I find some appeal to them. I see now that those rare, sacred warriors who fight on are comptemptable, deludued mortals, but instead important champions."
[20:27] <Kotono> OOC: Strike, painful typo.
[20:28] <Kotono> "It's what I came here to do," Antenora does sit. "Mistress, the vows you've taken, the vows of a paladin? I admit...I find some appeal to them. I see now that those rare, sacred warriors who fight on are not comtemptable, deluded mortals, but instead important champions."
[20:32] <Alicia> "My," Alicia leans on the desk she sits at. "You'd go so far, Antenora?" she asks in faint wonder. "Naturally I of all people would support you in this... if most people were to ask, I'd attempt to dissuade them at first in order to verify their sincerity, but in your case I feel that would be pointless."
[20:32] <Alicia> "You have the potential to be a potent force for good in the world - likely far greater than I, in the long run. And with the sacred grace bestowed from training as a paladin, you'd only be more formidable."
[20:33] <Kotono> Antenora smiles at that, far different than she did before. It looks sincere, the sort of thing that warms a heart. "But...there's something else, too."
[20:34] <Alicia> "Go on," Alicia nods encouragingly.
03[20:48] * Ko-UGUUHARDER (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) has joined #dunes
02[20:49] * Demedais (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) Quit (Ping timeout)
02[20:49] * Kotono (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
03[20:50] * Ko-UGUUHARDER is now known as Kotono
03[20:50] * ChanServ sets mode: +qo Kotono Kotono
[20:52] <Kotono> "There's anger. A lot of anger," Antenora's words are sedate despite it. "Every thing I think about the devils. It builds up the more I think about it, into something...palpable."
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03[20:53] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Taishyr
03[20:53] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[20:59] <Alicia> "Nothing wrong with that," Alicia tells her. "People will often say that such feelings are unbecoming of 'good' people, but that's complete nonsense. My hate and anger give me the strength to stand against such atrocities... but it is true that we must be careful not to let rage consume us. It may be trite to say, but embrace and master your feelings, don't let them master you."
[21:01] <Kotono> "I feel like it'son the verge of becoming something else. Something inspired," Antenora agrees to that. "I'm not sure which path I should follow."
[21:03] <Alicia> "Interesting..." Alicia looks thoughtful for a moment. "You're in a rather unique position, Antenora... I've heard that outside the rigid caste system of the Baatezu, some Outsiders simply take new forms and grow as suits their temperaments and the needs of their home plane. If, as you say, this feels like being on the cusp of some discovery, I think it may be worth pursuing."
[21:05] <Kotono> "Then I will. I have to prepare for the devils," Antenora stands up now, "I'll answer this calling then."
[21:06] <Alicia> "Want to get some sparring in?" Alicia asks. "I could stand to work on my form when it comes to airborne combat, and I think things are quiet enough today that I can spare a few spells on simple practice."
[21:07] <Kotono> "That's where I was going," Antenora strides off, before stopping. "...besides, there was another matter I wanted to talk to you about."
[21:09] <Alicia> "Before that," Alicia notes, getting up and following, "I've got enough money right now for a few purchases - if you like we could ask Elle about getting a ring of sustenance for you, so you won't need to eat and will only need a couple of hour's sleep a night?"
[21:10] <Kotono> Antenora's eyes show interest, lighting up. "I would," she agrees, "Thank you, Mistress."
[21:11] <Alicia> "I'll ask about it, tomorrow," Alicia promises as they head outside. "Now, what was the other matter you wanted to talk about?" She then blinks and cocks her head, "Also, Alicia, remember?"
[21:13] <Kotono> "Ah." Antenora colors slightly as she heads outside, "Of course, Mistress Alicia. No, I wanted to talk to you about Demedais and Seira."
[21:14] <Alicia> "You can keep calling me Mistress if you want, I meant when I said it didn't matter to me either way," Alicia shrugs, going to grab a quarterstaff. "So what about them?"
[21:19] <Kotono> "I'll be fighting with them a fair bit, won't I?" She picks up a quarterstaff as well, spinning it about. "But all I know of Seira is that she stabbed me in the back and Demedais is amazingly hard headed." A starting jab just as Alicia readies, quick and to her stomach. "Before, I never took them seriously beyond that."
06[21:25] * Alicia jumps back a bit to avoid the jab and then busies herself with casting Flight before starting to hover upwards. "Well, try talking to them a bit more? Both seem to have taken my word for how you've changed, so I doubt they'd object. Even if conversation has been limited, you've travelled with them both a fair bit, I'm sure you've at least drawn some conclusions, just as they have about you."
[21:26] <Kotono> "Mmm." Antenora busies herself a bit, careful and swift flying loops. Her speed and manuverability seem to have improved a bit, especially going up. "Perhaps I will," she murmurs, before lashing out at Alicia.
06[21:26] * Alicia attempts to parry and shift to the side, hoping Antenora's momentum will keep her going and expose her unguarded rear to a counterattack.
[21:28] <Kotono> It does just that, Antenora overcommitting. "Until then..." she says, readying her quarterstaff and trying to recover! OOC - Do you have anything else here?
[21:29] <Alicia> OOC: not really
[21:32] <Kotono> OOC: Gimme a minute then.
[21:36] <Kotono> ----
[21:37] <Kotono> A few days pass. This mid winter'sd ay is warm thanks to the bay, the sun and clouds a pleasant background. Come the early afternoon, the three members of the Guard are summoned by Commander Oberuth. The pages have a short but simple message: A Malmuthian ambassador has come to discuss the end of hostilites.
[21:37] <Kotono> (More. Doh.)
[21:38] <Kotono> On entering the meeting room, you find a single Malmuthian here. Ambassador Almand is here, his head bowed as you enter. Commander Oberuth smiles widely as the Crimson Guard enters. "He came under a flag of truce," he says to them.
01[21:39] <Seira> "It's happened before," Seira notes neutrally. "But we hold the higher ground now, don't we?"
06[21:40] * Demedais says nothing, understanding perhaps in part Almand's situation.
[21:41] <Kotono> Almand raises his head, a polite smile on his face. "The circumstances have indeed changed. With..the situation as it is, Malmuth is interested in a status quo peace settlement."
01[21:41] <Seira> "May I translate, Commander?" Seira requests.
06[21:41] * Demedais looks to Seira a bit coldly.
06[21:42] * Alicia refrains from commenting, as her personal views likely do not match the political stance of the Baronies, and this falls to Lord Salman to render judgement on.
[21:43] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth's smile grows. "I'd tell you that this sounds like...oh, go on, Seira," Oberuth agrees.
01[21:43] <Seira> "With their demon-worshipping leader gone, and the state in disarray, while the army is riddled with persistent rumors of this and knows it cannot win a war against us and our allies... they believe they can bluff us into accepting a status quo. The status quo that held us under a constant threat of armed conflict,
01[21:43] <Seira> and indeed allowed for a sneak attack that wasn't detected until our borders were breached."
[21:43] <Demedais> "What is currently being discussed?" Demedais says, looking between Almand and Oberuth, before hearing Seira and shrugging, stepping back once.
01[21:46] <Seira> "Cede us the land from Valandia and to the pre-conflict border," Seira continues. "We'll turn it into a demilitarized zone while gaining strategic depth to prevent future incidents such as this. On your side, you would know that we have no intentions of invading or conquering Malmuth, so you would be quite safe from something along those lines."
[21:48] <Kotono> Almand's color is slightly off, Seira's words hitting hard. "That is completely unacceptable!" Almand exclaims! "You want us to give you land? You're facing down an army several times larger than your own!"
01[21:49] <Seira> "I want to let you know how much trouble I am having right now, preventing myself from laughing," she tells him flatly. "Would you like me to resummon the great golden wyrm to face your massive army?"
[21:50] <Kotono> "Are you trying to intimidate us?" Almand sputters out. "First you murder his Majesty," Heavy contempt are in those words, "Then you demand tribute?!"
01[21:52] <Seira> "Yes," Seira says bluntly. "I have received correspondence from the elven court that suggested just that. Their thoughts on tribute... weren't quite so mild." She glares at him, now. "Do you have any idea what can of worms you've opened? Even the isolationists are on the move, and they're moving on you. Only we can stop their march."
[21:52] <Alicia> "Better to kill one man than a hundred thousand," Alicia puts in coldly. "We followed this strategy in order to spare your army - and their wives and children back home. Be grateful."
[21:52] <Demedais> "Demonic wanna-be god posing in your king's body." Demedais corrects.
06[21:53] * Seira shrugs. "Elves, though... to them, you humans are not how the Balmurians see you. Their professional army would not be so keen to spare your men."
[21:55] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth looks him over. "You know it's true, too, Almand. You can hiss and bitch as much as you want, but the fact is that Ferdi's dead and you probably don't even have a crowned King right now.:"
01[21:56] <Seira> "If I were taking it personally, I would be demanding to claim the reward for killing Irenes," Seira adds. "This is entirely professional, and be grateful for that."
[21:57] <Kotono> Almand stiffens up, his back rigid. "I think we've said enough," he stands, "We'll be in contact again." Without sparing any other words, he stomps off and out of the room.
06[21:58] * Demedais eyes Almand as he leaves, attempting to gauge this...
01[21:58] <Seira> "If they take too long the elves will conquer them, probably," Seira says non too quietly.
[21:59] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15
06[21:59] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 and gets 22."12 [1d20=7]
[21:59] <Alicia> "Probably. It sounds like they committed their whole army to this front. I doubt they left anything to defend their flanks," Alicia agrees.
[21:59] <Kotono> "If the elves push into them, I'm sure we'll get a much better offer." Oberuth agrees, "I'm not sure we can get Valandia out of them unless we spend the blood to take it, but some strips of land would be quite useful. I wouldn't give away Valandia unless I had to, if I were in their position."
06[22:00] * Demedais nods once, quietly.
01[22:00] <Seira> Once she is reasonably certain Almand is nowhere in hearing range, Seira snorts, and lowers her voice. "They're not really as bloodthirsty or imperialistic as I made them out to sound, but the elves really would stick to the plan now that they've gone this far."
[22:00] <Alicia> "I think Valandia would be a strategic liability, anyway," Alicia muses. "Balmuria makes a far more defensible border."
01[22:01] <Seira> "I agree. But I want a border within stone-throwing distance from Valandia, metaphorically-speaking," Seira voices. "Let them know how it feels like."
[22:01] <Kotono> "I figured," A nod to Seira, "I wouldn't mind the elves getting something for the trouble, though. Hmmm..." H e thinks at that a moment, "I agree, though I wouldn't turn down Valandia if they offer."
06[22:01] * Alicia nods. "A buffer makes excellent sense, certainly."
01[22:01] <Seira> "I respectfully request that we agree to nothing less, while on the surface pushing for Valandia itself as well. It would allow us to make consensions."
[22:02] <Kotono> A nod, "There's also a third idea Lord Salman's been considering. If they're willing to give up Valandia, it may be more expedient to make a small free city-state of it under our influence instead. To be honest, I'm not thrilled about getting a ton of new people in our nation who don't want to be here."
06[22:03] * Seira looks happy at the prospect.
[22:04] <Alicia> "To be honest, I think most of Valandia's citizens would prefer our stewardship to Malmuth's, once they had a chance to see the benefits," Alicia notes. "Especially with the impending succession crisis Malmuth must be facing. Stability makes a persuasive argument in our favour."
[22:04] <Demedais> "All I know is that the proposal got him rather mad. Will they agree to it? Maybe. ...We walk a fine line here, as well, but it's one we have the advantage on."
01[22:05] <Seira> "Any of us appearing on the front lines would be cause for a rout," Seira states, "and their commanders know this well. Especially Olburt."
[22:06] <Kotono> "Speaking of that, I was talking to Claris. I've asked him to be asking favorable people in Malmuth to pass on information on what the hell's going on there. If it's a weak king or a regency council or even a new bloodline, odds are that it'll be easier to push around than if a General or a seasoned noble takes over."
[22:07] <Alicia> "Olburt didn't strike me as the type to lead himself, and I understand Ferdi murdered many of his potential strong rivals," Alicia murmurs, rubbing her chin briefly. "I doubt Malmuth will have confident leadership for some time after this disaster, regardless."
01[22:07] <Seira> "Maybe they'll splinter," Seira suggests.
[22:08] <Alicia> "Entirely possible. It is a very large Empire, and the Baronies themselves make an inspiration example of what independence can offer," the paladin agrees.
[22:09] <Kotono> "It's our hope they do," Oberuth admits this after a moment, "Five or six nations aren't a thing compared to the Malmuthian Empire. Even if we end up at war with a new southern neighbor, it would be a war easier to win. Still..." Oberuth stands. "We won't know anything until they send a new missive, probalby not for a few days."
01[22:10] <Seira> "They can take their time," Seira says with another shrug. "The longer they wait, the stronger our defenses become, and the more chances the elves can make inroads into their territory."
[22:11] <Kotono> "Yes. Until then, back to work. I'll send for you when we get or hear anything useful."
06[22:11] * Demedais salutes.

[Corwin]

[19:48] <Kobreakfast> --------
[19:53] <Kobreakfast> During the tense times of war and the uneasy, waiting, jubulant, informal cessation of hostilities, life goes on. The Temple of Mystra's work is continued by mundane and magical means when time is had. While not complete all the way - some of the finer details aren't finished - the main worship area is. Today there is need of a final setting, your priest of Mystra asking for Alicia to come and set the purple gem she received into the alt
[19:54] <Kobreakfast> the altar.
06[19:57] * Alicia greets Shankar, admiring how far the temple's come. Now all it needs is a congregation... She doesn't particularly want to make a fuss out of this, simply praying to Mystra that she watch over this temple and all within it before she sets the gemstone in place and invites Shankar to consecrate it.
[20:04] <Kobreakfast> He bows to Alicia as you enter the main hall - the pews are fresh and polished, a few worshippers having been allowed in to marvel. "Lady Paladin," he respectfully nods his head to Alicia. The altar is respectfully sized, to counter the large statue of Mystra behind it. Thanks to an illusion paid for, silver fire dances around the hands of the gold and silver filigreed statue.
[20:19] <Alicia> "Blessings of the Weave upon you, sir priest," Alicia greets him formally. Seeing that a few worshippers are present after all, she decides that a speech is probably called for. Bolstering the spirits of the faithful is never a bad thing, after all.
[20:19] <Alicia> "The past weeks have been difficult for us all," she acknowledges as she stops before the altar and turns to face the congregation. "The war with Malmuth may have been brief, and won in our favour, but I'm sure many of you worried nonetheless. So, it pleases me to have this happy occassion of formally consecrating the Church of the Seven Bells, representing a new beginning."
[20:19] <Alicia> "But, I must draw your attention back to the war, such as it was, as a striking example of the changes occuring in the world. King Ferdi had been corrupted with blasphemous arcane power, defying not only Mystra, but all of the Gods. And how was the war ended? Not with the meatgrinder of mass battle, but with a confrontation between the berserk king and Balmuria's strongest champions."
[20:19] <Alicia> "No longer can leaders hide in their fortresses, sending thousands to die at their whims without any appreciation of the havoc they wreak - instead they will be personally brought to account by those who seek justice, and have the power to bypass any army in their way. That is the gift of magic, and one that I feel will define this new age before us."
[20:20] <Alicia> "More than having conjured food, or instant communication, or illusory lightshows, this is what will change the world - that tyrants will no longer be able to hide and avoid responsibility for their actions. And that is why we must encourage both the growth of magic, and the righteousness in our hearts, so that for every egomaniacal warmonger that springs up, a champion will emerge from our ranks to strike him down."
[20:26] <Kobreakfast> Shankar follows Alicia as she turns and settles in. As Alicia's speech picks up in earnest, she notes someone else enters the hall. It's Jessica, a book under her arm. She stays just to the left of the door, hiding into the shadows with a canny, natural skill. Your speech draws attention and clapping at points, but it's subdued until the end. (More)
[20:30] <Kobreakfast> At the end a great cascade of applause is heard, restrained but jubulant. Shankar steps forward at this, "Lady Alicia has been given a token by The Lady of Mysteries. Let it now consecrate the altar here and bring her blessings onto our fair city1"
06[20:31] * Alicia nods to Shankar and murmurs a brief prayer to Mystra as she sets the stone into the altar before inviting the person who actually casts divine spells to properly consecrate it.
[20:33] <Kobreakfast> "Oh Lady Mystra," he prays aloud, as the stone is set in. Ther eis a soft thump as it's set in, Shankar's hand reaching out. "Your blessings, your gifts, your mercies, let it be so!" As he touches the gem...(More)
[20:37] <Kobreakfast> The sparkling gem shines for a few moments, spreading a radiance into the room. In a strong voice, "The temple is so dedicated," Shankar says, "Let the Church of the Seven Bells stand forever!"
[20:39] <Alicia> "In Mystra's name, let it be so," Alicia seconds, feeling rather proud, all things considered. It's almost enough to make her forget the horrible cold ache she feels inside.
[20:44] <Kobreakfast> Cheers fill the hall, echoing around sweetly.  You think you even hear your sister quietly adding once or two.
06[20:44] * Alicia blinks a few times, before smiling at the brief image. As they're done with the formal part, she makes the time to chat with the assembled worshippers - and her sister, for the next little while.
03[20:48] * Kobreakfast is now known as Kotono
[21:32] <Kotono> ---
[21:36] <Kotono> Breakfast. This is normally a pleasant time. It's more quiet today - Antenora's not to be seen. So it's just Jessica, due to come back soon with fresh bread. After a few minutes of waiting she does, but her color is gone from her face, her fists shaking with anger as she enters.
[21:38] <Alicia> "Sister?" Alicia gives Jessica a worried look at her demeanour, surmising that she's probably had an unpleasant encounter with someone who knows about her past.
[21:39] <Kotono> Jessica puts the bread down on the table, turning ther sister. "....I met someone I used to know," she says. "Apparently."
[21:41] <Alicia> "Really?" Alicia can't quite keep the surprise from her voice. She hadn't even really considered that any of Beth's former acquaintances would show up. She certainly never had any friends, but that raises the disturbing prospect of enemies among the ranks of thieves and assassins.
[21:44] <Kotono> "I'd just gotten the bread - I'd walked to the docks to get it from Roald. IT's that nice elven berry bread..." Jessica begins, sitting shakily. "When I walked out, someone kept calling Beth. I didn't really get it until he ran up to me."
06[21:45] * Alicia sits down next to Jessica and puts an arm around her shoulder to try and soothe her shaking. "What happened, then?" she asks.
[21:48] <Kotono> "He grinned and slapped my back. He got me into the alley before I could react." Jessica looks down, "He was smiling, but he had a dagger out. He said I owed him a lot for the poisons and that it was just his good luck he has a good chance to collect on it." Jessica stops, looking up. "I managed to knock the dagger away, but he said I had a week to find him with the money, or...I'll regret it."
[21:51] <Alicia> "No," Alicia exhales slowly, clenching her free fist. "He's going to regret it. What happened after he made his threat, Jessica?"
[21:53] <Kotono> "I...I said that Beth was dead." Her color continues to drain. "He got this look and laughed. He said, 'Oh, you're going legit? Maybe you'll appreciate this more...'" A full stop here, "I...he threatened my body then. That way. He said that I'd appreciate being a stinking, stupid mother then if I was going to hide away in some new country."
[21:56] <Alicia> "Bastard... how did you get away?" Alicia asks, double-checking to make sure Jessica hasn't actually been hurt.
[21:58] <Kotono> "I ran," Jessica admits, as Alicia doesn't see any injuries on her. "Without his dagger he couldn't do much but grab at me, but I was faster."
[22:00] <Alicia> "Breakfast can wait, we're going to find him," Alicia states firmly. "There's a couple of ways to go about this, but lets go with the simplest one - we'll take a walk over to where he showed up and stroll around from there in case we catch sight of him. If that doesn't work I have other ideas, but this is simplest."
[22:03] <Kotono> Jessica nods, adjusting the ring on her finger. "Alright. I'll take you there."
06[22:05] * Alicia grabs Hell Striker. "Can you describe what he looked like?" she asks, so that both she and her sword can keep an eye out in case he manages to avoid Jessica's notice. Her own ability to detect evil should help with that, anyway.
[22:06] <Kotono> "I didn't get a good look. He wore a brown cloak with a hood - it didn't cover his face all the way, but he had greasy black hair." As you walk outside, you find it's cloudy and cool. People go about, hurrying to various points far and wide as the city awaits and hopes for a final peace
[22:06] <Kotono> .
[22:07] <Alicia> "Hmm... anything unique about his dagger? Like an ornamented blade or design on the crossguard?" she asks, thinking she may need such information if just looking around fails.
[22:08] <Kotono> It had a black and silver filigree on the handle," Jessica says, "The blade looked sharp."
[22:10] <Alicia> "That could be useful, but lets see if we can find him just with our eyes, first," Alicia nods, occassionally glancing around in search of any evil auras as they head towards the old part of town.
[22:11] <Kotono> On the trip there, Alicia occasionally sees a faint evil aura. A few normal people have the seeds of darkness within them, but none look like your target. On reaching the street byt he bakery, you see tha tthings are busy. Except for a currently unused warehouse a bit to the west of the bakery, everything is open and doing decent business.
[22:12] <Alicia> From here, Alicia simply begins to adopt an outward spiral search pattern, making sure to wander close enough to larger buildings she passes in order to sweep her evil detecting gaze through their walls.
[22:13] <Kotono> Beth follows as you begin to spiral. The smells of the salty sea and baking bread compete in your nose as you sweep, but you don't notice anyone who seems to fit the bill as you sweep this street.
06[22:14] * Alicia keeps going, intending to cover everything East of the main street from the South Gate (and a little bit of what's to the West of that street) before she decides to try something else.
[22:16] <Kotono> This takes a half hour. There's nothing of note in the docks or in the area just south of it. The more mundane and run down homes in the southeast are different. Here you see people going to life plain lives, a few you know. You pass by a house kept by a loving husband and wife, now free of anyd evilish threat. But still, no sign of anything that meets you rmark.
[22:17] <Alicia> "Okay, no joy there. Now to visit Elle's shop to pick up something that should make tracking him easier," Alicia decides before heading up the hill and past Seira's inn to visit Grand Shop Luna de Stronger.
[22:28] <Kotono> You find Elle there, talking to a blue robed woman. The woman's face is hidden and she steps away as the two enter. "Oh, Alicia. Did you come here for something else?"
[22:29] <Alicia> "Do you have any scrolls of locate object to hand?" Alicia asks, briefly nodding to the other customer in greeting but then giving all of her attention to the proprietress.
[22:37] <Kotono> "I do," Elle asks, with a bit of as mile. "Lost something and can't find it?"
[22:38] <Alicia> "Not quite. Rather, hoping to find someone by finding his weapon," Alicia replies grimly, mentally calculating how many scrolls she'd need to cover the entirity of Balmuria if she were flying around on a unicorn, considering the three minute duration.
[22:40] <Kotono> Alicia would estimate 1 for most of the city, 3 for all of it.  You could core out the center, but getting the outlying parts would be troublesome. Elle sighs, "Aaah, I'd hoped this was something innocent and harmless for once. More business?" AS she speaks she goes into the back for a few, coming back with a scroll.
[22:41] <Alicia> "Have any more?" Alicia asks hopefully. "Three would be ideal."
[22:43] <Kotono> "One more." Elle goes back and comes with it, "I'll have to procure or pen a few more now, too. Oh, speaking of." Glancing to the blue robed woman, "Meet Alice. She'll be working for me to help pick up the slack on making scrolls. Business is going up, and I don't have time to spend all day on a few low level scrolls anymore."
[22:44] <Kotono> Alice steps forward, face obscured. "Ma'am," she says politely to Alicia and Jessica.
[22:45] <Alicia> "Ah, hello, Alice," Alicia smiles at the other woman as she counts out several platinum coins to pay Elle with. "Always glad to meet a fellow spellcaster - I hope you'll find time to visit the temple of Mystra. We've only just opened for services, but we'd be glad to see you there."
[22:46] <Kotono> "Aaah, thank you," she murmurs. "I haven't had a chance to be to one since I left home. I thought I'd have to go all the way to Kelara to find one."
[22:47] <Kotono> The scrolls are passed over, "Goo dluck," Elle bids the two well. Jessica stays quiet, still downcast.
[22:48] <Alicia> "Probably be quicker taking a boat to Pallanth rather than crossing the desert to Kelara, but I'll hope to see you there, anyway. While we're doing introductions, this is my sister, Jessica," she gestures to the downcast woman, intending to just get the niceties out of the way before they head off to find this rogue who threatened her sister.
[22:50] <Kotono> "Hello," Jessica murmurs, while Alice repeats, "Hello, ma'am."
[22:51] <Alicia> "Well, we'd better be off. Good day to you both," Alicia nods to the pair, rolling the scrolls up and tucking them into her belt before leading Jessica out. "Come on, we'll stop by the garrison to see if we can borrow a couple of pegasi and get this done quickly."
[22:52] <Kotono> OOC: The pegasi are gettable without incident. What areas are you going to proritise on the first sweep?
[22:55] <Alicia> OOC: I'll also get Jessica to draw a picture of the dagger before we go, so I can more clearly visualise it. Going to prioritise the docks/east-side, first, then work west from there.
[22:56] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[22:57] <Kotono> As you sweep around, you eventually come to the elven mission. To your surprise, as you fly over it, locate object begins to work. The dagger is in there.
06[22:59] * Alicia really hopes it isn't a generic design that the elves just happen to sell. "Down here," she tells Jessica, bringing her horse to land in an empty part of the street. Asking Jessica to watch the pair of them, she quickly heads into the mission to find the source - if it's a false reading she wants to confirm it and take off as quickly as possible to get what use she can from the rest of the spell's duration.
[23:00] <Kotono> The pair gets looks as Jessica stays and Alicia heads to the mission. INside elven goods are on display, elves about. The item you are looking for is behind the counter in the very back, where the important items are. A slender but alert elf mans that counter.
[23:02] <Alicia> Probably a false reading from a similar dagger, but she'll come back and check, shortly. For now she better do as much checking as she can while the spell still runs. Hurrying back out, she quickly mounts her pegasus, "Probably nothing, lets keep looking," she tells Jessica, taking off and resuming her search pattern.
[23:03] <Kotono> The two get back on! They sweep the main street and most of the old town before the spell runs out. No luck, no registers on that scroll.
06[23:04] * Alicia flies ahead another four hundred feet before she reads off the second scroll, to ensure she gets as much use out of it fresh rather than doubling over an already scanned area, before she begins to check over the new town.
[23:05] <Kotono> A-ha! As you pass over the city hall, you get a register! There's something there that's working too.
06[23:06] * Alicia suspects its probably another false reading, but she has to follow these up. "Another potential," she tells Jessica, repeating the exact same scene that just played out at the Elf Mission.
[23:07] <Kotono> You get even more looks as you head inside. Waiting just inside is a merchant - a jovial, large fellow. He's reading a scroll as he waits, a dagger strapped to his wide belt. His hair is brown and ill kempt, but not particularly greasy.
[23:09] <Alicia> Quick, quick, quick, back on the horses and back to searching!
[23:10] <Kotono> Near the temple of Torm you find another signal, this one inside of it.
[23:12] <Alicia> "Another one." Now having this down to a fine art, Alicia swoops down after telling Jessica and hops off her horse, quickly poking her head inside the temple and for once somewhat hoping the target isn't here. Attacking a man inside Torm's church won't help her already strained relations with them.
[23:13] <Kotono> Inside a few people are here. You can see Eudard of Torm at the altar, talking to a few armored men. One of them, a large man in chain maile and breastplate, is where the signal is coming from. He wears a helmet, bits of blonde hair jutting out.
[23:14] <Alicia> And out Alicia goes, hopefully before anyone spotted her! "That dagger design is annoyingly popular," she can't help but note as she climbs back onto her pegasus and takes off for the last stretch.
[23:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
06[23:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 7."12 [1d20=2]
[23:15] <Kotono> No other signals are found in that time. The spell expires as you mostly finish up. Jessica looks down at the western gate, "Anything else, sister?"
[23:17] <Alicia> "I'm afraid not," Alicia replies in irritation at having just wasted what amounts to just under two year's salary for her. "But we're not done yet - I'm not resting till we find this bastard. Lets drop off the pegasi back at the garrison then we'll ask around at the inns and taverns - someone has to have seen this man."
[23:18] <Kotono> "Alright..." Jessica agrees, as...OOC - Gather information check here, I think.
[23:19] <Alicia> OOC: I'll take 10 for 22, she can aid me for 24
[23:20] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[23:22] <Kotono> The Liberty Inn. It's on the main street of Balmuria, near the temple of Waukeen. Here you find yourself in discussion with an aloof sounding man, long hair kept back in a ponytail. His ears are hidden beneath his well kept locks. He wears rich clothes, sipping a fine brandy. "Mmm. I think I may have," he says finally.
02[23:23] * ARGHASDGSDFASDF (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) Quit (Ping timeout)
[23:23] <Alicia> "Do you know where he's staying?" Alicia asks, eschewing any alcoholic beverages for herself.
[23:24] <Kotono> Jessica gets water, keeping close to Alicia. "No. He merely got my attention when we passed on the streets just outside here." He looks Alicia over, "You're one of that Guard, aren't you? You look it."
[23:25] <Alicia> "That's right, lieutenant Alicia Reynes, at your service," Alicia confirms. "How long ago did you see him and where was he headed?"
[23:26] <Kotono> "Over an hour ago. He was going to the elven mission," The man looks at Alicia long, before brushing his hair back a bit. His ears are somewhat pointed. "He moves like an elven ranger or someone trained like that. The way of moving without being heard or noticed, while not looking like you are unless you're also trained like that."
[23:27] <Kotono> "That got my attention. I didn't expect to see a ranger or someone like that here."
[23:28] <Alicia> "He's no ranger," Alicia snorts. "But I did have an earlier lead towards the mission, so there may be something in this... Thank you for your help, good sir," she nods gratefully, getting up and then heading off to the mission.
[23:28] <Kotono> "Mm, g'luck." He says absently, before going back to his drink. OOC - Let's pause here, workhell looms.

[Corwin]

[06:32] <Tiny_Ko_Army> ------------------------------------nestled ko---
[06:39] <Tiny_Ko_Army> The temple's business late one evening is finally winding down. Most of the priests are finishing up, night watches set and many going to bed. During this, Demedais happens to be outside, having finished a mundane, unremarkable task. As he comes back around, he notices Antenora looking inside of the temple. Alicia's nowhere in sight.
06[06:40] * Demedais blinks at this a bit, before walking up to Antenora, his check on the crypt and its surroundings complete. "Hello, Antenora. What brings you here?"
[06:42] <Tiny_Ko_Army> She's almost finished looking into the temple entirely, turning as Demedais speaks. "Ah. Looking for you."
[06:46] <Demedais> "Well, here I am. What can I do for you?" Demedais replies with a light smile.
03[06:47] * Sierra_Mikain is now known as Sierra_BeautySleep
[06:47] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Antenora scowls a bit, "Can we go somewhere else?"
06[06:48] * Demedais looks a little bemused at this, but nods once. "Sure. Any reason why not here? The priests don't bite." He gestures in the direction of Seira's inn.
[06:50] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Seira's inn is looked at, "No, I just came from there." Instead, she starts heading towards the new section of the city, keeping a brisk pace. After a moment, "...Devils aren't very fond of the Gods, even the evil ones. If devils worship anything, it's the Lords of the Nine and Asmodeus. The old habits still die hard."
06[06:53] * Demedais nods once, following. "...So... Alicia really did manage to convert you, then. Not like I can check too well or anything, but I did hear of the angel coming to visit."
[06:54] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Antenora cracks a bit of a smile. It's different than before - it doesn't bring to mind lies and darkness, but something more appealing. "Yes...yes, she did. It still amazes me and I never really understood it until I was converted. That kindness, even to a creature that never understood the tiniest bit of anything good."
[06:57] <Demedais> "I don't get it either. She claims I'm nice, yet giving someone that chance... is mostly outside of my limits." Demedais shakes his head. "I could not have given you that chance; I was willing to give Alicia the chance to you because it would, at worst, be a large, but expected, distraction from killing the God-King. ...That likely makes me sound cold, but it's true."
[06:59] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "No, no. I understand." Antenora looks up at the cloudy sky, a few stars out. "Your actions wouldn't have been wrong. I had no intentions of helping any of you or changing. All I saw was a chance to corrupt a few choice, important mortals and perhaps even gain special status for it."
[07:04] <Demedais> "And all I saw was interference, but this road has turned out much for the better." Demedais chuckles a bit. "...bah. I'm sorry for sounding so serious, but this whole mess with Malmuth has made my mind one-track. This whole thing may drown them in chaos - fracticious states, warring alliances... I don't like it, but at the same time, with the devils to the west and the ruins an ever-present worry to the north, what can be done? There's no good way around i
[07:04] <Demedais> "There's no good way around it. Add that to my other concerns, and... sheesh."
[07:07] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Antenora shrugs at it. "Mortals.." she stops at that word, before shaking her head. "In the time I've been alive, countless kingdoms have risen and fallen. To listen to the stories, humans lacked the controls devils do for real order, so these spurts of chaos are unavoidable." Antenora makes a sour face at that, a grimace. "I do think that it's unavoidable, having seen humans for a little while. Too many of you are wild and disagreeing,
[07:08] <Tiny_Ko_Army>  with no overlying structure. The only superiors to look to are other humans or the Gods, and have they not been distant?"
[07:13] <Demedais> "This entire plane has been practically akin to a sealed jar for a long time." Demedais notes. "Very little outside interference; the God-King being pinned in here by the weight of his own resorts. As for control... Humans do lack the control, but to me the order of the Hells is unnatural. ...For a true order, chaos must also be present; Seira's served as reminder of that to me. Helm as witness, has she ever."
[07:14] <Demedais> "...Stupid demons." Demedais adds under his breath.
[07:15] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "You're right about Hell, at least. It's not any sort of order as much as a slavery of fear." Antenora continues to lead you along, through the new quarter's more elegant buildings. A few people are about here and there. (More)
[07:18] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Or...it is order, but in the worst way, making it into that. I'm still not sure." A stop there as she thinks, going silent for alittle. "The sort of control where...I saw another Erinyes displease a superior. With a word the Erinyes was dragged screaming away by Pain Devils to be made into a Nupperibo." (More)
[07:19] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "But order is still needed, but...more like the gentle order Alicia gave me. The way this country runs, an order tempered with mercy and good. To contain people like Seira and ensure harmony."
[07:24] <Demedais> "Yes.... Just, fair, merciful. Seek to keep the peace so that others may find their roads in life." Demedais nods, looking around at the new buildings. "I... heh. Some days, I must wonder."
[07:25] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Wonder what?" Antenora asks. The buildings are nice, well constructed and for people with at least a little coin.
[07:27] <Demedais> "What my life would have been, had not the Temple of Helm taken me in." Demedais shakes his head. "I was named, raised, and sheltered by them...heh. And yet now I wonder who my birth parents are. It's... ah, hell, I'm sorry, I'm rambling."
03[07:30] * Gate-beinguseful is now known as Gate-dead
[07:30] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "You were an orphan?" Antenora inquires. "This troubles you?"
[07:33] <Demedais> "I was. It does not trouble me... I see it as the one part of my past I have not reconciled. As the child of my parents, I would logically seek to do what I can for them."
[07:34] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "If you're an orphan, are they not dead? Or do you speak to raise them?" Antenora's voice shows a mild curiosity, perhaps.
[07:37] <Demedais> "They may be dead; if this is the case... there is little I can do, no? But for all I know, they left me on the steps of Helm's temple as they traveled to Malmuth, or west, or north... or died, somewhere, resting in the fact that they did what they could. I don't know. But I would like some answer, even if it is to learn they died. Helm willing, some day I will have that answer."
[07:38] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Mmm." Antenora murmurs something at that, thoughtful. "Do you have any means to find them?"
[07:39] <Demedais> "Therein lies the fun part. Not outside the realm of the divine or the arcane, no." Demedais says wryly. "I could go knocking on every door in the land, but I suspect that'd be a waste of time."
[07:40] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Get a good oracle," Antenora advises, as you head towards Alicia's house. The Temple behind it still being finished, but Demedais can note it's open. "There's one more thing. The three of you encountered a balor in the wastes?"
[07:41] <Demedais> "The one of us - Seira." Demedais clarifies, looking to the new Temple with approval.
[07:42] <Tiny_Ko_Army> A bit of darkening on Antenora's face, but she goes on. "I heard. Gurlan of the Green Castle. I know more than most of you about the planes, and I know that you and I are at greater risks from demons than Seira. They have powers that devastate order as much as good."
[07:46] <Demedais> "That I understand. It's probably why the creature was willing to let her survive." Demedais shakes his head. "Probably regretting it heavily now, but you know. Had I followed after, the scenario would've been much stickier. Remind me to staple Seira to a wall if she even slightly expresses interest in even remotely touching pitch-black portals again."
[07:47] <Tiny_Ko_Army> That nets a thin smile, "It would be best. She doesn't seem to have the same powers against evil that you or Alicia has. They're so important when facing demons...or devils."
[07:49] <Demedais> "Her magics seem focused on handling... more mortal threats, so to speak." Demedais nods. "Though the Hells will begin to weep openly if she ever figures out holy fireballs."
[07:52] <Tiny_Ko_Army> AT that, Antenora laughs a little bit. "Yes, yes they would."
06[07:55] * Demedais pauses in reflection. "Actually, I'm going to suggest that to Seira; worth a shot if she can figure it out." A bit further, then, "How does one seal off the Hells and the Abyss from this world? Is it even possible?"
[07:57] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "I thought of it a little, but it's beyond any of my knowledge. Demedais, The Abyss and the Hells are a place souls go after death. Do you think any of the Gods who have realms in those places would not object? What ou're saying is a massive disruption of the natural order of things. Even if you can find a way to do it, surely you'll find oppositions."
[07:58] <Demedais> "There is that, I suppose, but..." Demedais muses on this.
[08:00] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 lol?
05[08:02] -betamax.dejatoons.net:@#dunes- Tiny_Ko_Army invited Hatbot into the channel.
03[08:02] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@cpe-70-112-23-198.austin.res.rr.com) has joined #dunes
03[08:02] * Tiny_Ko_Army sets mode: +v Hatbot
[08:03] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 lol?
06[08:03] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 lol? and gets 17."12 [1d20=10]
[08:06] <Demedais> "I don't know. Something about the whole arrangement strikes me as off, but I can't figure out why." Demedais shrugs after a moment. "Perhaps with time, we'll find something. But this still raises my point; even if we go to handle the invasion to the west... what then? How do we close their entryway there?"
[08:08] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "They have to have gotten in somehow, a portal or a rift or what have you. Seal that and you stop any more from coming in from there. By now it's surely well defended, though." A few moments, "What strikes you as off about it?"
[08:11] <Demedais> "I... don't know. ...No, that's not true. You have the Hells and the Abyss... and these are the two major, notable situations. Yet most of the gods seem to maintain their own private heavens for their faithful; from your words, the evil gods work with the Hells and the Abyss... Maybe there is nothing wrong, but it seems like a natural chasm. ... Also part of it is that being forced to make a deal with a devil or demon instead of die is an evil act, yet to d
[08:12] <Demedais> " yet to die and fail in your duty, allowing evil to potentially flourish here, is not..." (More)
[08:14] <Demedais> "...Which is something that, on the one hand, I understand; you are working with evil. On the other hand, if you do it to advance the cause of good, where is the issue? I'm not contesting that to deal with them in the first place is stupid; that's painfully obvious. But to do your best with what you have... especially when you cannot rely on divine intervention? The system is stacked against mortals."
[08:19] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Some things aren't worth even your duty..." Antenora's voice sharpens at that, "Go see a soul's shell be torn apart into a lemure and tell me that taking the deal was correct. You're thinking how a devil wants you to think. The duty's more important than anything else, even good. So what if your soul's bartered away? Devils and demons don't play fair." Antenora bows her head at that, voice tightening with a quickness that is startling.
03[08:21] * Gate-dead is now known as Gate-zombiedanmaku
[08:22] <Demedais> "I'm well aware they don't play fair. Why do you think I made this sword holy instead of axiomatic?" Demedais says with a slight grin. "But at the same time, you reject the loss of one soul for the benefit of all; while you are right, it can be twisted to how the devils wish you to think... if you, by a sacrifice, knew - not being told by a devil, but by the arrayed forces of Good for you - that it would end a great evil, what would you do?"
[08:23] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "I'd tell them to go back to Hell and die with a smile on my face," Antenora matches that smile. "It's not worth it. The temptation is that you're doing good for it. After all, how do you tempt the purest souls but with what they crave?"
[08:25] <Demedais> "You missed the point of the question, but whatever." Demedais inclines his head. "I see your point. ...You raise another note, however; what is done to souls that do not go to the Hells, the Abyss, or a deity?"
[08:26] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+15
06[08:26] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+15 and gets 23."12 [1d20=8]
[08:26] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "They go to where they should. A soul of order and nothing else goes to Mechanus, say." Antenora brushes her hair back, looking at Alicia's front door.
03[08:27] * Gate-zombiedanmaku is now known as Gate-dead
[08:28] <Demedais> "I somewhat guessed at that. My interest was in what is done to the soul once it's there?"
[08:29] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Do you know what a petitioner is?" Antenora asks.
[08:31] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 aha
06[08:31] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 aha and gets 13."12 [1d20=6]
[08:32] <Demedais> "Unless you're referring to the people who come to temples, no." Demedais says after a moment, looking just a bit sheepish.
[08:36] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "...Ah. A petitioner is the soul of a mortal being. It gravitates to it's god or it's planar destination. Some live on in a more or less lifelike state, more on the non evil planes. Some become outsiders - be it the way devils do or by absorption or divine fiat. Others merge with the very essence of what they are attuned to. Honestly...those things are more for the non evil planes. In Hell, there's only one place for souls, the torture
[08:37] <Tiny_Ko_Army> torture rooms before becoming a lemure."
[08:38] <Demedais> "So, the Hells and the Abyss violate the natural order of the situation?" Demedais says wryly.
[08:40] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Not entirely. Some evil and ordered souls end up in the Hells by their own deeds," Antenora says.
[08:42] <Demedais> "But they all end up in the torture rooms. There are no other options, from what you seem to be saying; whereas outside the evil aligned planes, there is."
[08:43] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "If you're evil to go there and so ordered, what else i there but a perfect, unbending order forever? Further, everyone has to start at the bottom." Antenora stops a moment, "Though...It is something I've been thinking on. You know the Erinyes are fallen angels?"
[08:43] <Demedais> "That still ignores the point, but moving on. Yes, I'm aware of that."
[08:46] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Good outsiders are allowed to become evil and fall. If I'd begun to change and been in Hell, all I'd have gotten was torments then finally oblivion. Even in ordered places of good, there is always a choice."
[08:48] <Demedais> "Again, re-emphasizing the fact that something seems completely off about the Hells and the Abyss in general." Demedais muses. "I don't know what can be done with this information, though; not yet, at least."
[08:50] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Yes, just to think about. Good night," Antenora heads to the door, "To more pressing problems on the morrow.:
[08:50] <Demedais> "Night." Demedais nods.

[Corwin]

[19:20] <Ko-Vampirewatching> ----
[19:21] <Ko-Vampirewatching> After a few days, Commander Oberuth summons the three heroes once more. This time they come to an empty room, save for a sheaf of papers on the table. "We got a reply from Malmuth today," he announces.
[19:22] <Alicia> "What did they say?" Alicia asks curiously.
03[19:24] * Seira sets mode: +o Demedais
[19:24] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "First off, apparently they have someone in charge." Tapping the hunk of papers, "Since they sent these. They're offering half the land from here to Valandia and some reparations to both us and the elves in exchange for peace with both parties. From what I heard yesterday, the elves are closing in on Tauret."
[19:25] <Demedais> "Any indication of who is in charge?" Demedais asks calmly.
01[19:26] <Seira> "Then we can probably let some self-important bureacrats haggle over details," Seira muses. "This isn't their last offer, but we shouldn't really have to intervene to get an acceptable settlement."
[19:28] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "No. Almand's off in a room waiting, since I said we'd consider it. If you want to take a run at talking to him to find out, feel free." Looking up from the papers now, "But no, I suspect we're going to see an official settlement soon, even if we hold out for a little more."
06[19:29] * Seira tilts her head. "Well, I'm somewhat curious who's in charge. Let's go ask?"
06[19:30] * Alicia shrugs. "No harm in it. I'm sure Lord Salman will make his decision soon enough, anyway, but we might as well feel them out a bit."
[19:30] <Demedais> "Sure." Demedais nods slightly.
[19:31] <Ko-Vampirewatching> The three head to a small side room. A few guards are here, saluting as the trio enters. Almand sits inside, impassive looking and patient.
01[19:31] <Seira> "Hello," Seira greets him fairly amiably.
[19:32] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "Good afternoon," Almand slightly inclines his head. "Are you coming to tell me on your nation's decision already?"
01[19:33] <Seira> "In a way," Seira tells him. "The counter offer is a very good one, which means I won't be getting insulted or trying to push for all or nothing. But we did want to know whom we would be making the deal with."
[19:35] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "General Olburt and certain high ranking nobles are running things until a heir is found," Almand's voice stiffens.
[19:37] <Demedais> "Good." Demedais says simply.
06[19:37] * Seira nods in agreement. "Yes, as long as he gets his affliction looked at."
[19:38] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "Regardless of that," Almand does continue, "Will these terms be accepted?
[19:38] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "
01[19:39] <Seira> "There is likely to be a push for more by those who want to look good before Lord Salman," Seira says dismissively, "Cosmetic changes, but at the core of the matter, yes, I believe so."
[19:39] <Demedais> "Possibly. We have some say, but we aren't the leaders, you see. Lord Salman and Commander Oberuth are still looking at it, but see Seira." Demedais says, looking at Almand.
[19:39] <Alicia> "We have not been informed of Lord Salman's decision, we were simply curious who was now in charge of your nation," Alicia admits. "Since allowing ourselves to be ignorant of what transpired within your borders served us so poorly in the recent past, it's something we should look at amending in future."
06[19:40] * Seira nods again. "It wouldn't be strange to see a firmly-worded request for reduced troop levels around Valandia," she mentions.
[19:40] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 hmm.
06[19:40] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 hmm. and gets 28."12 [1d20=13]
[19:41] <Ko-Vampirewatching> You merely get a slight nod to that. "Hmm..tell me when there's something official."
01[19:43] <Seira> "On a more personal note," Seira says then, exchanging a glance with Demedais, "has all of Irenes's research been destroyed?"
06[19:43] * Demedais inclines his head at that. "You shall receive word."
[19:43] <Ko-Vampirewatching> Almand stiffens at that, "That is none of your concern."
01[19:44] <Seira> "Another avatar of the God-King rising under our noses is quite the concern," Seira counters.
06[19:44] * Demedais blinks at this, eyeing Almand.
[19:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 ...sm here, that's something I want more on if I can get it.
06[19:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 ...sm here, that's something I want more on if I can get it. and gets 22."12 [1d20=7]
[19:45] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 sm reroll, go Negotiator
06[19:45] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 sm reroll, go Negotiator and gets 30."12 [1d20=15]
[19:46] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "This is not a matter for discussion, beyond that it is an internal Malmuthian affair." Almand states.
[19:47] <Demedais> "...If you are having problems with it..." Demedais says slowly, looking at him with undisguised sympathy.
[19:49] <Ko-Vampirewatching> The look back Demedais gets is cold and unemotional, Almand's expression like ice. "This is an internal affair."
06[19:49] * Seira palms her forehead. "Why do I even bother with that side of humanity," she mutters. "Fine, whatever. We'll try to make your stay here as short as possible and have a decision delivered to you at the earliest convenience."
[19:50] <Alicia> "Make sure you deal with it, then," Alicia tells him, leaning forward menacingly. "Because we will be watching. Don't make us come visit you, again." And knowing the value of a dramatic exit, she turns with a flourish of her cloak and walks out the door.
06[19:51] * Seira dismisses Almand's presence from her mind and strolls out casually.
06[19:52] * Demedais looks at Almand for a bit longer, sympathy beginning to mix with weariness. "I see. So as it was in the beginning, it is now, and will ever be?"
[19:54] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "We will not forget this war," Almand says back to Demedais. "One day, one day."
06[19:55] * Seira stops. And turns around.
01[19:55] <Seira> "I'm sorry, did you want to continue fighting?"
01[19:56] <Seira> "Screw this, I want all or nothing, now," Seira says, crossing her arms in front of her chest.
[19:56] <Demedais> "...One day you will see history repeat itself, then." Demedais says bitterly. "You strode forward with violence in mind and heart; why are you so surprised at this result? This is..." Demedais stops and gazes wearily at Seira.
01[19:57] <Seira> "Yeah, how's Tauret doing? I heard elves say it's nice there this time of year."
[19:58] <Ko-Vampirewatching> The look Seira gets back is frozen. "You have our terms."
01[19:59] <Seira> "Our words are backed up by superior firepower," Seira tells him with an even more frozen glare. "If you don't want to cede the rest of the land, cede the weaponry. Disband large portions of your army until it is no longer than at a ratio of three to one, compared to ours."
[20:00] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "Hmph," Almand mutters.
[20:00] <Demedais> "..." Demedais just stands speechless at this, eyes closed and his head shaking a bit.
01[20:01] <Seira> "Back at you!" Seira snaps suddenly. "What part of ENDING THE CONFLICT FOR GOOD don't you guys understand?!"
01[20:01] <Seira> "Negotiations aren't just a chance to recover and get into better backstabbing position! IT DOESN'T WORK THAT WAY IN LIFE!"
[20:05] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "You..." Almand twitches slightly, turning to glare pure hateful fire at Seira. "You're lucky we're deigning to give you a peace at all," he snaps off. "You should be ground down under thousands of boots, not surviving."
06[20:05] * Seira quietens down, talking steadily in monotone. "I swear I will go soldier-to-soldier clad in stoneskin and ask each man if he is a retard or wants a chance at life, and kill the retards until there are none left and it will take me several weeks but I will do it and finally we will have peace and the land will run red with blood."
01[20:06] <Seira> "There. Will. Be. Peace. One. Way. Or. Another."
[20:07] <Demedais> "...You seek to begin this again, then?" Demedais says, suddenly colder than ice. "You seek to summon back the same old darkness into your hearts, using the people as your pawns? Using the soldiers as a weary axe against us? You think a thousand of boots could stand, or even tens of thousands? You are mad - but furthermore?" A wry grin. "So are we, Almand. And we are very, so very tired, of this. We have offered peace time and time again, a peace that will
[20:07] <Demedais> "We have offered peace time and time again, a peace that will last if Malmuth will but listen..." (More)
[20:10] <Demedais> "And your country has, each time, responded with a strike against us. We tire of this. Our patience has run out, and if you think your pathetic knives will stand... your suffering will last beyond the aeons as you are bled dry. Give up and try to understand why we have done this. If you truly want peace? Take it now. It is quite possible -this- will be your final chance."
[20:11] <Ko-Vampirewatching> Taking a long, long, long breath, Almand composes himself. "You are fortunate my superiors share your opinions now," he says at very long last. "Go. The offer is on the table."
[20:12] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 calling bullshit  one final time.
06[20:12] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 calling bullshit one final time. and gets 32."12 [1d20=17]
01[20:12] <Seira> "Idiot," Seira says, glancing at Demedais after. "Maybe we just need direct negotiations with the smarter of the superiors?"
06[20:16] * Demedais just stares at Almand, coldly for a long second, before looking to Seira and leaving.
06[20:17] * Seira follows, telling Demedais once they're out of the room, "Refusing to reduce the size of their massive army when they have no enemies that would go to war against them on their own initiative spells out that they intend to doublecross us."
[20:17] <Demedais> "I caught that, thanks." Demedais says, head in his hands. "Seira?"
01[20:18] <Seira> "I'm quite serious about going over to punch them in the face until someone not stupid steps up to deal with us."
[20:20] <Demedais> "Firstly, how are the anti-balor-touch treatments going? Second, any chance you can learn how to cast holy fireballs? Third, how about summon great golden worm armadas? Finally, good luck; at this point I'm convinced Ferdi just permamently mindraped them all."
01[20:21] <Seira> "I just don't want Demedais the fourth to come and bother me when Malmuth burns his home village to the ground in another surprise attack, you know?" Seira says with a frown. "We should make the country safe for your great-grandkids so they don't annoy me with equally silly questions. One, all clean. Two, yes but there is a better option. Three, not out of the question. Four, sure thing!"
06[20:21] * Demedais looks up at Seira, eyeing her for a quick moment.
[20:21] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 IC confirmation of point 1, please~ (SM)
06[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 IC confirmation of point 1, please~ (SM) and gets 24."12 [1d20=9]
01[20:22] <Seira> "Don't worry," Seira adds. "I've consulted Waukeen. She said it's all good."
[20:24] <Demedais> "...mm. Very well. I just don't like the idea of that thing knowing where you are; enough problems as is. Two, what's the better option? Three, please do look into it. Finally, I shall ensure no descendant of mine is named Demedais. EVER. Period. Which reminds me, how does one make a family curse that works like that?"
01[20:25] <Seira> "I'll get back to you on curses," she responds with a snort. "And the better option is option 3! Why summon holy fire when you can just summon a fire-breathing dragon with lots and lots of regular fire?"
[20:26] <Demedais> "In case holy makes them cry more." Demedais replies with a slight grin, walking back toward Alicia and the group.
01[20:28] <Seira> "Hmph. Celestial dragon summons, then?"
[20:28] <Demedais> "Sure."
[20:38] <Ko-Vampirewatching> ---

[Corwin]

[20:38] <Ko-Vampirewatching> ---
[20:38] <Ko-Vampirewatching> OOC: Last lines?
[20:39] <Alicia> just outside here." He looks Alicia over, "You're one of that Guard, aren't you? You look it."
[20:39] <Alicia> [21:25] <Alicia> "That's right, lieutenant Alicia Reynes, at your service," Alicia confirms. "How long ago did you see him and where was he headed?"
[20:39] <Alicia> [21:26] <Kotono> "Over an hour ago. He was going to the elven mission," The man looks at Alicia long, before brushing his hair back a bit. His ears are somewhat pointed. "He moves like an elven ranger or someone trained like that. The way of moving without being heard or noticed, while not looking like you are unless you're also trained like that."
[20:39] <Alicia> [21:27] <Kotono> "That got my attention. I didn't expect to see a ranger or someone like that here."
[20:39] <Alicia> [21:28] <Alicia> "He's no ranger," Alicia snorts. "But I did have an earlier lead towards the mission, so there may be something in this... Thank you for your help, good sir," she nods gratefully, getting up and then heading off to the mission.
[20:39] <Alicia> [21:28] <Kotono> "Mm, g'luck." He says absently, before going back to his drink. OOC - Let's pause here, workhell looms.
[20:44] <Ko-Vampirewatching> Alicia heads to the elven mission. A few of the elves glance at her again as she enters, though none make a point of it on looking at her.
06[20:45] * Alicia makes her way to the counter where she had a response on the locate object spell, hoping to find the same elf manning it.
[20:49] <Ko-Vampirewatching> The same elf is. "Aaah yes? Sir Reynes?" HE looks Alicia's outfit over. "How can we help you?"
[20:50] <Alicia> "Good morning," Alicia smiles briefly at him, not wanting to come off as too pushy. "Mind if I ask a few questions?"
[20:51] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "Go on," the elf agrees.
[20:52] <Alicia> "Thank you," Alicia nods, before unfolding the paper on which Jessica rendered the dagger she saw. "Have you seen a dagger like this recently, first of all?"
[20:53] <Ko-Vampirewatching> "Yes." He reaches down, pulling out a dagger just like that. It's a shiny dagger, it's blade looking razor sharp. "It was part of a sale today."
03[20:55] * Ko-Vampirewatching is now known as Kotono
[20:56] <Alicia> "Sold any to a man with greasy black hair and wearing a brown cloak?" Alicia asks. "Or for that matter seen anyone of that description? I understand he was here a bit over an hour ago."
[20:59] <Kotono> "He sold it. He traded this and some gold for a pair of boots of elven kind. He was quite insistent on the matter and offered this dagger. It's magic, so we accepted." The clerk puts the dagger onto the counter, letting it lie there. "He was also interested in a cloak and said he may be coming into some money soon, so he may return."
[21:01] <Alicia> "He mention anything else?" Alicia asks. "Where he was from, where he's staying, how long he'll be in town, anything like that?"
[21:02] <Kotono> "He did did mention he was new to town," The elf notes. "He said he was s urprised to find elves here. He spoke our language quite well."
06[21:04] * Alicia nods. "Any chance you saw which way he headed after he left?"
[21:04] <Alicia> "Or get his name?"
[21:06] <Kotono> "He didn't mention it," A shake of his head at that, "But he did mention one other thing. He asked about the temples in this city. When I mentioned the new ones, he took notice of the Mystra one in particular. He laughed and said it felt right like home, and that maybe he should visit."
[21:08] <Alicia> Must be one of Beth's old acquaintances from Kelara... probably she skipped out on paying him years ago and never thought anything of it. Still, whether he was wronged or not is immaterial, the threats he made against her sister cannot go unanswered. "Thank you, you've been very helpful," she nods gratefully before heading out with Jessica.
[21:08] <Alicia> "Lets keep checking the rest of the inns to find out if he's checked in at them before we try anything else?" she suggests.
[21:12] <Kotono> "Have you had any luck," Jessica asks as she starts to walk, preparing to do just what Alicia suggested.
[21:16] <Alicia> "Sounds like he's someone from back in Kelara. He sold the dagger today for some boots that muffle his footsteps. Horrible timing, really," Alicia admits. "Boots of Elvenkind are pretty expensive and uncommon, so I could ask Elle for more help searching for them tomorrow, but I'd far rather find him today."
[21:16] <Alicia> "He said he might check out our temple, according to the elf, so we'll look in there in case he's been seen, too." She pauses, "Actually, temple first. Might get a warmer trail if he's been recently."
[21:22] <Kotono> The trip back to the temple is without incident. On reaching the main hall and Shankar, you find him going over a few things. "Oh, m'lady," he perks up as Alicia enters.
[21:23] <Alicia> "Good morning, Shankar," Alicia greets the priest with a smile. "I'm sorry to trouble you, but we're looking for someone who might have stopped by, here," she then gives the same description of the greasy haired man as before.
[21:25] <Kotono> "Oh!" He straightens up, "He came by not even a half hour ago. He didn't stay long, but we did talk a moment. Was he looking for you?"
[21:26] <Alicia> "Other way around," Alicia shakes her head. "What did you talk about?"
[21:28] <Kotono> "Kelara briefly. He asked we commission magical items here as well, as he may be coming into some money soon. I said we'd consider it as our services grow, b the Lady's grace."
[21:28] <Alicia> "Know where he headed afterwards?" Alicia asks the same question she asked the elf. "Or get his name, for that matter."
[21:30] <Kotono> "Christopher, I believe." He thinks a moment, "Yes, that was it. He said he was hungry."
06[21:30] * Alicia mentally works out where the nearest food vendors and restaurants are from here.
[21:31] <Kotono> There's a cafe down the street from Alicia's house with a few tables outside. That's the closest.
[21:31] <Alicia> "It's something to look into. Thank you, Shankar," Alicia nods, before heading off to follow this latest lead, starting at that cafe and moving on from there to other nearby eateries if it gets no results.
[21:32] <Alicia> OOC: another take 10 on gather info for 22, Jessica can aid for 24
[21:33] <Kotono> As you go to that cafe, you happen to glance inside. It's not too larg einside, but there's a few tables there as well. Inside is a man in a brown cloak, drinking from a mug and eating some bread and stew. He's about fifteen feet away from the door and sitting.
[21:34] <Alicia> OOC: is he evil?
[21:35] <Alicia> "Is that him?" Alicia quietly asks Beth as she indicates the man from a distance.
[21:35] <Kotono> Jessica glances inside, before hurrying back. "It is," she says, voice very tight.
[21:36] <Kotono> Inside are a few innocent people eating, as well as a few people running the shop. It's busy but not overly so.
[21:37] <Alicia> "Wait here," she tells Jessica before she enters the cafe and goes to stand over the table the man is at. "Excuse me, sir, I'd like to ask you to come with me."
[21:39] <Kotono> The man's bowl of stew is teaming hot, his face hidden. "..hm?" his body subtly tenses, a hand in his lap and the other at his bowl. "What do you want?"
[21:40] <Alicia> "Just come with me, sir. We can get things straightened out at the garrison," Alicia tells him, her tone polite but oh so very firm.
[21:40] <Kotono> "...Mmmmm..." OOC - He's going to do something, but you're both ready. In this case I'd like to roll initiative.
[21:40] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5
06[21:40] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 and gets 20."12 [1d20=15]
[21:40] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
06[21:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 28."12 [1d20=19]
03[21:41] * Kotono changes topic to 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Christopher>Alicia'
[21:42] <Kotono> His reflexes are damnably good!His hand darts out, tossing the bowl of hot stew at Alicia before she can react!
[21:42] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
06[21:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 11."12 [1d20=1]
[21:43] <Kotono> Really, it was a rather quick and smooth motion. Unfortunately for him, his tossed bowl of stew sails right by Alicia cleanly, slamming into the wall and not hitting anyone! He stands as well, swift!
[21:45] <Alicia> "I actually hoped you'd resist," Alicia admits with an unkind smile as her hand lashes out, intending to grab his neck and chokeslam him to the ground.
[21:45] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 melee touch to start grapple
06[21:45] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 melee touch to start grapple and gets 20."12 [1d20=5]
[21:45] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 grapple check to start grapple
06[21:45] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 grapple check to start grapple and gets 23."12 [1d20=8]
[21:46] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:46] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 18."12 [1d20=10]
[21:47] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 grapple check to pin him
06[21:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 grapple check to pin him and gets 21."12 [1d20=6]
[21:47] <Alicia> roll 1d3+6 unarmed damage from starting the grapple, too
06[21:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d3+6 unarmed damage from starting the grapple, too and gets 7."12 [1d3=1]
[21:47] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 18."12 [1d20=10]
[21:48] <Kotono> Alicia grapples with Christopher, working along with him! She manages to pin him down roughly! Struggling, he attempts to escape the pin!
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 9."12 [1d20=1]
[21:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 is it needed?
06[21:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 is it needed? and gets 19."12 [1d20=4]
[21:49] <Kotono> But Alicia has him pinned down tight!
[21:49] <Kotono> "Hey, what's going on!" Someone from behind the food counter calls, as customers gasp out and watch!
[21:50] <Alicia> "Sorry to disturb your meal, people. This man unwisely chose to resist arrest," Alicia calls out to the customers as she forces her knee roughly onto Christopher's back, keeping him pinned tight.
[21:50] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 to maintain pin
06[21:50] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 to maintain pin and gets 26."12 [1d20=11]
[21:51] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:51] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 11."12 [1d20=3]
[21:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 to inflict damage
06[21:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 to inflict damage and gets 18."12 [1d20=3]
[21:51] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:51] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 26."12 [1d20=18]
[21:51] <Kotono> While he evades Alicia's slamming knee into his back, he's still held by her! "I can't keep the ladies off me," Christopher groans as he dodges, trying to break the pin once more!
[21:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 10."12 [1d20=2]
[21:52] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 laf
06[21:52] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 laf and gets 26."12 [1d20=11]
[21:52] <Kotono> OOC: You don't even need to bother if he rolls below 15.
[21:52] <Alicia> OOC: sure
[21:52] <Kotono> OOC: That's piteous.
[21:52] <Kotono> Once again he's held tight, as a customer calls, "There's a fight in here! Call the Guard...er, more of it!" OOC- Ailcia.
[21:54] <Alicia> "Really, things are quite under control," Alicia insists, tightening her grip a bit as she holds the miscreant securely down. "I don't mind carrying you unconscious all the way to the garrison, you know," she hisses into his ear as she applies the pressure.
[21:54] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 to maintain pin
06[21:54] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 to maintain pin and gets 17."12 [1d20=2]
[21:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 12."12 [1d20=4]
[21:54] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 for damage
06[21:54] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 for damage and gets 17."12 [1d20=2]
[21:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 22."12 [1d20=14]
[21:55] <Kotono> Alicia manages to barely hold onto the pin, but can't seem to do any real damage to him! He continues to wiggle, "What the hell is this about, anyway?" he hisses, as he continues to try and break free!
[21:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 24."12 [1d20=16]
[21:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15
06[21:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 and gets 23."12 [1d20=8]
[21:55] <Alicia> OOC: he breaks the pin but remains grappled
[21:56] <Kotono> With an oily wriggle, he wrests out of the pin! OOC - Alicia.
06[21:57] * Alicia heaves a put upon sigh before slamming him to the ground once again. "Stop squirming and maybe you'll find out," she lectures.
[21:57] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 to reapply pin
06[21:57] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 to reapply pin and gets 33."12 [1d20=18]
[21:57] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:57] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 25."12 [1d20=17]
[21:57] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 for damage
06[21:57] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 for damage and gets 23."12 [1d20=8]
[21:57] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:57] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 17."12 [1d20=9]
[21:57] <Alicia> roll 1d3+6
06[21:57] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d3+6 and gets 7."12 [1d3=1]
[21:58] <Kotono> "OW!" he hisses as Alicia slams him to the ground! "Maybe if you weren't trying to beat me senseless I would...or hell, yes, let's go along with the nasty looking armored woman. Brilliant," he snaps back. "Do you expect men to take one look and do whatever you say? You look like that type..." As he complains and struggles, he once again attemps to escape the pin!
[21:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[21:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 22."12 [1d20=14]
[21:59] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15
06[21:59] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 and gets 16."12 [1d20=1]
[21:59] <Kotono> Like oil in water he slides out of the pin and kicks Alicia back just a little! He rubs his back, but Alicia's still on him and maintaining the grapple! "Get of the way!" someone calls, as the two come close to another table. OOC - Alicia.
03[22:03] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-54445eaf.lns3-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[22:03] <Kotono> Like oil in water he slides out of the pin and kicks Alicia back just a little! He rubs his back, but Alicia's still on him and maintaining the grapple! "Get of the way!" someone calls, as the two come close to another table. OOC - Alicia.
03[22:03] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
02[22:04] * Alicia (WinNT@user-54445eaf.lns3-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
06[22:05] * Ebiris uses Christopher's momentum against him as he springs up, only to get hammered back down again. "Lieutenant Alicia Reynes, Crimson Guard. By all means, keep struggling if it makes you feel better, though."
[22:05] <Ebiris> roll 1d20+15 pin part deux
06[22:05] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d20+15 pin part deux and gets 22."12 [1d20=7]
[22:05] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[22:05] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 17."12 [1d20=9]
[22:05] <Ebiris> roll 1d2015 damage
06[22:05] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d2015 damage and gets 45."12 [1d2015=45]
[22:05] <Ebiris> roll 1d20+15
06[22:05] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d20+15 and gets 22."12 [1d20=7]
[22:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[22:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 26."12 [1d20=18]
[22:07] <Kotono> Alicia once again manages a pin, as the two tumble back onto the next table! Salad, soup and ale go flying and splatter about, the table breaking beneath him! Yet he lands right, avoiding Alicia's pressure and the collapse safely! "Ugh..." he huffs, "Wait a minute, you're that fucking paladin...Beth's sister?" His eyes widen, "Son of a bitch!" As he saysthis, he redoubles his efforts to escape the pin!
[22:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[22:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 15."12 [1d20=7]
[22:07] <Ebiris> roll 1d20+15
06[22:07] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d20+15 and gets 35."12 [1d20=20]
[22:07] <Ebiris> OOC: sorry, forgot
[22:07] <Kotono> But Alicia keeps him pinned down hard!
[22:08] <Ebiris> "You do realise you'll be paying for all the damage here, right?" Alicia lectures him as she keeps him held down securely. "And I'd forget those tales you've been spreading around of coming into some money soon, because it isn't going to happen."
[22:08] <Ebiris> roll 1d20+15 maintain pin
06[22:08] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d20+15 maintain pin and gets 29."12 [1d20=14]
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8 moot
06[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 moot and gets 22."12 [1d20=14]
[22:09] <Ebiris> roll 1d20+15 damage
06[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d20+15 damage and gets 27."12 [1d20=12]
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8 moot
06[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 moot and gets 26."12 [1d20=18]
[22:09] <Ebiris> roll 1d3+6
06[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d3+6 and gets 7."12 [1d3=1]
[22:10] <Kotono> SLAM! The hit slams the back of his head into the broken table! His eyes go misty a few moments, but he keeps it together! "Well yeah...wait, are you sticking up for Beth? Damn, she really did go straight." He sounds a bit disbelieving, huffing air in and out as he attempts to jab at Alicia's ribs and escape the pin!
[22:10] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[22:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 10."12 [1d20=2]
[22:10] <Kotono> But this isn't going anywhere at all.
[22:12] <Ebiris> "Even if she hadn't, I don't make a habit of letting rapists run around freely," Alicia gets right in Christopher's face at that, squeezing his throat tightly while driving her knee into his stomach. This relaxes the pin she has on him, but should make him hurt a fair bit.
[22:12] <Ebiris> roll 1d20+15 damage
06[22:12] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d20+15 damage and gets 26."12 [1d20=11]
[22:12] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[22:12] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 19."12 [1d20=11]
[22:12] <Ebiris> roll 1d20+15 damage
06[22:12] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d20+15 damage and gets 28."12 [1d20=13]
[22:13] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[22:13] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 23."12 [1d20=15]
[22:13] <Ebiris> roll 2d3+12
06[22:13] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 2d3+12 and gets 17."12 [2d3=3, 2]
[22:13] <Kotono> SLAM SLAM! The two hits slam Christopher hard, knocking him down and then out! He goes limp against the broken table, not moving.
06[22:15] * Ebiris exhales sharply and stands up, briefly casting prestidigitation in order to clean off herself and the surrounding mess they've made. "I'm sorry about the damage caused, just now," she tells the person behind the counter. "Come by the garrison with a bill and we'll have it taken care of."
[22:18] <Kotono> The salad and ale slides off Alicia's clothing via magic, making her clean again. "Aaah...aaaah..." the keeper nods, "I hope so! Those tables are expensive! Did you really have to break one?"
[22:21] <Ebiris> "You saw how he kept struggling," Alicia looks somewhat abashed. It wasn't her neatest takedown, but the only way to make it neater would've been to draw her blade or use a spell, and she didn't want to kill him. "Anyway, I'll get him out of your way." At that, she scoops up Christopher into a fireman's carry and makes her way out of the cafe.
[22:21] <Kotono> OOC - Spot check.
[22:22] <Ebiris> roll 1d20+1 what spot?
06[22:22] * Hatbot --> "Ebiris rolls 1d20+1 what spot? and gets 14."12 [1d20=13]
03[22:22] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[22:23] <Kotono> As Alicia turns back, she is surprised to see Christopher moving! He whirls up quickly, lashing a kick at Alicia's leg before stumbling backwards!
[22:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
06[22:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 17."12 [1d20=9]
[22:23] <Kotono> OOC - AC?
[22:23] <Alicia> OOC: 23
[22:24] <Kotono> The blow glances off Alicia's greaves, doing no harm. His face is bruising and his breathing is heavy, but he still seems to be concious after all! He staggers back amid the tables, "Damn, you're persistant!" OOC - Alicia.
06[22:25] * Alicia shakes her head in disbelief. "Stand down, now. I've been more than forgiving up till now, but this is ridiculous."
[22:25] <Kotono> OOC: Holding or waiting on a reply?
[22:25] <Alicia> OOC: holding, he can have a free shot if he wants
[22:29] <Kotono> "Well...hell..." He swears, eyeing the door. He eyes it long, a bustle outside. "Damn!" He raises his hands up at last.
[22:31] <Alicia> "So there's a brain inside there, after all?" Alicia marvels. "Good. Drop any weapons you're carrying," she orders, taking a moment to cast detect poison and give him a once over with that.
[22:33] <Kotono> He drops two more daggers and a little metallic container.
[22:35] <Alicia> "Step away," Alicia orders, waiting for him to do just that before she leans over to scoop up his daggers and the box.
[22:38] <Kotono> He steps away agaisnt the wall dutifully.
[22:39] <Alicia> Having collected the items, Alicia gestures him to the door. "I don't have any manacles on me, so I'll have to trust you not to try anything stupid. I don't recommend abusing my trust - it won't end well for you. Get walking, we're going to the garrison."
[22:44] <Kotono> With a long suffering sigh he follows outside. Outside you find Jessica waiting, as well as a few approaching guardsmen. They have spears at the ready.
[22:45] <Alicia> "Everything's under control, men," Alicia tells the approaching guards. "I wouldn't mind borrowing some manacles for this miscreant until we get to the garrison, though."
[22:46] <Kotono> The guards produce those, going to chain him up. Jessica eyes him warily, as she goes to Alicia. "I saw the fight. You aren't hurt?"
[22:50] <Alicia> "Pfh, not even a bruise," Alicia waves it off. "You can go home if you want - since you've already told me what happened, that's good enough as a statement, so you don't need to come to the garrison if you don't want to," she offers.

[Corwin]

01[17:08] <Seira> -----
01[17:09] <Seira> Though it might be fun to go and smash something in her annoyance at the stupidity of their enemies, Seira drags Demedais to collect Alicia and return to the Commander. Some things really shouldn't be delayed.
01[17:13] <Seira> "Since I happened to study wars between stupid mortals," Seira continues, after detailing what went on in the meeting briefly, "I can state without a doubt that Malmuth hadn't learnt a thing from their loss. Maybe it just isn't decisive enough, but we won't get peace this way -- egging their ambassador on clearly revealed that. Therefore, I propose we attack in full. Or, at the very least, send our entire force to meet with the Malmuthians. If a heavy military defeat in the battlefield is what would eventually avert an even bigger tragedy, we must teach them to hate war with every aspect of their being!"
01[17:14] <Seira> If a heavy military defeat in the battlefield is what would eventually avert an even bigger tragedy, we must teach them to hate war with every aspect of their being!"
[17:16] <Demedais> "I do believe that he spoke truly when he said his superiors had more common sense than to attack, at least for now; however, Almand at least will be an advocate for waging war again. It might be wise to ensure the defenses of our city as well as of our generals is secure." Demedais notes.
01[17:17] <Seira> "That they chose to send him despite his views doesn't make me particularly certain of that," Seira says, frowning.
[17:17] <Alicia> "I had hoped that removing Ferdi would remove the problem," Alicia sighs. "I have no desire to shed further Malmuthian blood, but if they intend to betray us - as Almand freely admitted they would - we must take steps to ensure peace can be maintained, even if it means more war in the short term."
01[17:18] <Seira> "They have more common sense than to attack... now. But, perhaps, once the elves had retreated and they regained control over the inevitable unrest? Definitely!"
[17:18] <Demedais> "It is possible that we've angered him enough to make him show his personal frustration, which he can perhaps hide more easily in Malmuth. Also, he's quite possibly their best diplomat anyway. But yes, that is an oddity.
06[17:19] * Seira scowls. "And we know full well they would do this, since they had before. The attack on Lord Salman before any hostilities were announced, the attempts on our lives, even the war itself -- they're all precedents of Malmuthian actions, windows into how their minds operate! Recall Olburt, who upon witnessing our power and his king's perfidy... tried to arrest us."
01[17:21] <Seira> "They could entertain notions that they only lost to trickery, to our allies and to our individual actions. And when we are engaged -- with the devil invasion in the desert, with the restoration of the land, with the ruins... they would try to destroy us, thinking they can. And we must show them that we are stronger than that."
[17:23] <Demedais> "It does not help their situation that our city is quickly accumulating magicians and priests with the talent and capability to act and befoul the movements of armies without problem. In the end, all they will have is trickery - but that may make them desperate, if they don't bloody well see we're not interested in this war in the first place."
01[17:24] <Seira> "And an influx of their own mages -- inevitable, when we open more seals -- may make them reconsider. Also...." Seira frowns again. "Almand's response on Irenes's legacy makes me wonder whether they still have the means to 'boosting' men or gating in demons."
[17:24] <Demedais> "Probably." Demedais says irritably. "The gnomish ruins would likely have something of the sort - haven't all the rest?"
06[17:25] * Seira nods curtly.
[17:25] <Demedais> "Also, while inevitable... we seem to be the closest, and thus more affected, than more distant places. Remember the reaction of the trading camp at the edge of the desert? It hadn't really effected them as much, and may not until four or five seals are broken."
[17:27] <Demedais> "Almost makes me wish that the dragon had been used in front of all their soldiers. Would have been a far more demoralizing effect. Ah, well."
01[17:27] <Seira> "The ruins becoming usable by devils could be an outcome-- but this is a tangent. We must decide our response to Malmuth, it must be a complete and total rejection of their militarism, and we have to show our strength. The demand for disbanding the majority of their army and for land to use as buffer and punitive measures has to be kept."
02[17:27] * Kotono (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) Quit (-=SysReset 2.55=-)
06[17:27] * Seira blinks at Demedais's words. "It was! In their city, no less!"
[17:28] <Demedais> "In their city, but witnessed, I would estimate, by relatively little of their front line."
[17:29] <Ko-SageandExcalarechibigrues> Having been listening, "I have an idea," Oberuth speaks up now.
01[17:29] <Seira> "Debatable. We did go past tens of thousands of troops stationed no more than a few hours away. News should travel fast."
03[17:29] * Ko-SageandExcalarechibigrues is now known as Kotono
06[17:29] * Seira looks at the Commander as he speaks.
06[17:29] * Demedais looks to Oberuth as well, patient.
02[17:31] * Alicia (WinNT@user-5443c2be.lns6-c8.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (Ping timeout)
03[17:31] * Alicia (WinNT@user-5443c2be.lns6-c8.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[17:31] <Kotono> "We may need to do this, but if we do, we need to have a plan and a projected outcome to force on them. They're surely on the ropes now, so let's try giving them one more punch. A bluff or a real hit barely matters, as long as the elves threaten Tauret. Once they fold, we demand everything to Valandia. Do you remember how we talked of an independant city-state nation of Valandia under our control? If all else fails, a buffer may be extremely
03[17:31] * Alicia is now known as Ebiris
03[17:32] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
03[17:32] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[17:32] <Kotono> extremely useful now."
[17:33] <Alicia> "Agreed," Alicia nods. "Valandia is their staging point for attacking us - if it was neutral they'd be forced to launch any attacks from the capital itself."
06[17:34] * Seira nods slowly. "You want to set up the barony of Valandia, Sir?"
06[17:34] * Demedais nods at this once. "Certainly a possibility. What trump cards do we have to ensure a quick fall?"
[17:35] <Kotono> "Not quite, there's still Purinn. But that's quite a ways from Valandia. Better yet, if we do so, we'll have them with a strong alliance looking down at them. An alliance, that if need be, can be opportunistic. What of the free cities to the east of Malmuth or the Desert Fiefdoms? If we can get them to make noises and guarantees? Not even a madman would open a war on three fronts."
01[17:35] <Seira> "Their vanguard cannot match our entire force," Seira notes for Demedais's sake. "And their main force has to decide whether to retreat to defend Tauret or face us."
[17:36] <Kotono> "Yes. While they do that...Seira." He turns to her, "Alicia. How hard is to make a convincing illusion of a large gold dragon?"
[17:37] <Alicia> "Major image, it's a third circle spell," Alicia replies. "Not one I can cast, admittedly, but I'm sure Seira could."
[17:37] <Demedais> "I am worried about controlling casualties more, I confess." Demedais notes. "While I acknowledge a supreme show of force may be needed here... ugh. I may want to walk up to every Malmuthian commander and punch them in the nose, but for all I know some of those soldiers are the ones I grew up with, here; I hold them no grudges. Fah."
01[17:39] <Seira> "Major image is doable, as long as it achieves our goal," Seira muses. "Also, if we direct our men to target the enemy commanders, while we protect them by being on the front lines, their entire force might crumble as we press on."
[17:40] <Kotono> "Would it be possible to have one appear over Valandia, look threatening and get seen, and then fly off without simply vanishing?" Commander Oberuth's interest grows. "Alright. If this is viable then, do any of you have any other ideas? I'd like to do this with as little bloodshed as possible, Demedais is correct."
[17:41] <Alicia> "Not really. The range of the illusion is too limited," Alicia shakes her head. "And if we did use an illusion that was seen through, it would probably give them more confidence that we're all tricks and no substance."
06[17:41] * Demedais nods. "Liberal use of magical tricks to lower morale and discourage enemy movements. My walls of boiling water can be used to firighten them off, though it may kill some of their newer trainees. Do we have any ways of conjuring frightful presences on our soldiers? Also, Alicia; perhaps if you fly inside the illusion of the dragon?"
01[17:41] <Seira> "I could summon real dragons soon enough, anyhow. I'd prefer to just threaten them the mundane way. That seems the best way to teach them."
[17:42] <Alicia> "I could fly inside it, but I don't see what could it would do..." Alicia responds in faint confusion.
[17:42] <Kotono> As you talk, there is another knock on the door. "Sir? Commander?"
[17:42] <Alicia> what good*
[17:42] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth holds up a hand, "A moment. Yes?"
[17:43] <Kotono> A page enters, a brief salute. "Sir, another Malmuthian envoy has arrived. He requests an immediate audience."
01[17:44] <Seira> "I can only hope they scried on us and decided to capitulate at last," Seira mutters.
06[17:44] * Demedais looks to Oberuth, one eyebrow raised.
[17:44] <Alicia> "Dissension in the ranks?" Alicia wonders curiously.
[17:44] <Kotono> There's a pause there, before OBeruth nods. "Send him in." After the page leaves, "I hope so. At the least it means something got countermanded."
06[17:46] * Demedais nods.
[17:47] <Demedais> "Sorry; I meant whoever was controlling the image could, so that it would not leave the range of control." he adds as an afterthought.
[17:47] <Kotono> After about five minutes a slender man enters. He has a broad, jovial face, wearing fine blue robes. His hair is long and black. "Commander Oberuth and the Crimson Guard?" He asks, "My name is Birist. I come from the new, rightful ruler of Malmuth, Queen Tant."
01[17:48] <Seira> "Hi!" Seira greets him brightly. "Any chance Almand is a lying bastard, then?"
06[17:48] * Alicia almost says a somewhat sincere 'long live the Queen', but decides it'd probably be in bad taste, all things considered.
[17:49] <Demedais> "This is good news-" Demedais eyes Seira with a long glare "-; what news do you have for us?"
[17:49] <Kotono> "As a matter of record, yes. May I?" he asks, going to a chair. "We're still at war by decree of the previous king, but Queen Tant has no desire to continue this war. I want to establish that right now. However...the Valandian garrison has not reconized her coronation."
[17:50] <Demedais> "..." Demedais stares at this, before beginning to shake his head. "Any... reason why?"
[17:50] <Alicia> "They would be under the command of General Olburt, yes?" Alicia asks probingly.
06[17:51] * Seira snorts. "The demon-tainted old guard. Interesting."
06[17:51] * Demedais waits for a response before commenting, but idly gives a far more amused glance to Seira, almost as if in apology.
[17:51] <Kotono> "We aren't sure yet, but Gener-yes, that's correct." He pauses to Alicia. "...As a sign of good faith, Queen Tant has given me permission to speak in depth. She has no desire to continue on Ferdi's war, but some of his underlings still do. With a large army in Valandia under his control...certain problems have arisen. Further, with the rising situation in Tauret...I'm sure you're aware of that?"
01[17:53] <Seira> "Since that's our allies coming to our aid in a defensive war, yes," Seira affirms. "We're coordinating with them, as you are likely aware."
[17:53] <Demedais> "...I now resent every drop of respect I had for that man." Demedais growls, shaking his head. "Does General Olburt also control Tauret?"
[17:54] <Kotono> "No, he does not. The forces i nthat area have stayed loyal to the rightful crown." A small smile at that, "Queen Tant has given me leave to propose certain beneficial conditions to ending this war and reestablishing peace."
01[17:54] <Seira> "We are open to hearing a genuine peace offer," Seira says, quite friendly.
[17:55] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 sense motive - is he telling the truth re: Olburt?
06[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 sense motive - is he telling the truth re: Olburt? and gets 31."12 [1d20=16]
[17:57] <Kotono> "Call the elves off. They can stay on the border if they wish until this is resolved, just relieve pressure on Tauret. Hold your own borders in the meantime. Once you do...Her Majesty wishes to resolve this situation in Valandia. With the rear blocked by the Baronies and Tauret relieved, enough forces will be mustered to reassert the correct controls in Valandia. In return for this," Birist looks to them, "What are your demands? Her Majesty i
[17:58] <Kotono> "What are your demands? Her Majesty is willing to entertain any reasonable offer as far as Valandia if you wish land, or reparations."
06[17:58] * Alicia looks somewhat mollified, but leaves it for the higher ranking types to actually discuss reparations.
06[17:58] * Demedais nods once at this. "We like peace. That's what we kept telling the former ruling group in Malmuth, but they seemed to have their ears blocked. As for demands... Well. That is something we may need to revisit now that we have you guys to be able to civilly talk to."
01[17:58] <Seira> "It is a good thing you came now," Seira comments. "We were debating ways of decisively ending the war just now, in the interest of full disclosure. One of the options was employing dragons until Malmuthian leadership recognized that further conflict was pointless, since Almand threatened us with another war not too far into the future." She considers their requests. "As far as Valandia was what we requested, as long as a disbandanment of most of your forces to make them more on par with our own. We really don't intend to invade you, so why bother keeping all them on payroll when they can become farmers or professionals?"
01[17:59] <Seira> as long as a disbandanment of most of your forces to make them more on par with our own. We really don't intend to invade you, so why bother keeping all them on payroll when they can become farmers or professionals?"
[17:59] <Kotono> "After this current war and our second in 5 years, we are of the mind we need a buffer zone. A disbandment of forces there as Seira suggested or a more...independant nature for Valandia would be acceptable."
[18:00] <Kotono> OOC - gah.
[18:00] <Kotono> "After this current war and our second in 5 years, we are of the mind we need a buffer zone. A disbandment of forces there as Seira suggested or a more...independant nature for Valandia would be acceptable." Commander Oberuth listens to all of that, "Lord Salman's wishes are one in the same as far as these matters go."
[18:01] <Kotono> "We have no objection to that," Birist says with a quick smile. "Ferdi's reign was disasterous for the interior of Malmuth - his focus on more estoric matters was bankrupting, as was his military buildup. With a lost war, we have little choice but to cut back."
01[18:02] <Seira> "There is one more thing," Seira adds. "It is more of a personal request, but one I would wish for your Queen to consider. Irenes's leftover knowledge must be examined by someone qualified to do so, and safely disposed of if dangerous. The beneficial parts of it would be shared with her in a show of good faith, naturally."
[18:03] <Demedais> "Furthermore, this leaves open the possibility of working together in-depth from here on, something I find agreeable." Demedais nods slightly, listening with a slight shake of his head. "Did he hope to refill the coffers with spoils of war, or was it truly that shard he ingested... driving him to free..." Demedais shakes his head, before nodding at Seira. "Yeah. We believe Ferdi effectively had his mind overridden by a fragment of power Irenes dug out."
[18:04] <Alicia> "I wouldn't be so sure. Power can corrupt easily enough without any more sinister control being applied," Alicia reasons. "And Ferdi was never the most moral of people to begin with, from the tales I've heard."
[18:04] <Kotono> The color drains from Birist's face at that, "...yes, we are working on that already." His color seems like white lead now, "We lost over 500 men to a strange creature that was freed in trying to disable what laid beneath the palace. However, Her Majesty's times enabled her to make certain friends that have greatly sped up the process of cleaning up this horrible mess beneath."
01[18:05] <Seira> "Is that a diplomatic way of saying our help would not be appreciated?"
[18:07] <Demedais> "...by Helm." Demedais shakes his head. "That is... I am sorry to hear that, and would warn you to take extreme caution; while it must be done, as you know, it is... even we have fallen prey to traps in such ruins. They are definitely not pleasant places."
[18:07] <Kotono> "Her Majesty's opinion is to burn it all, frankly. She's well on her way to it. You have to understand a moment...but aaah, a bit of history would be beneficial." Birist's color doesn't really improve, but he keeps speaking, voice having slight shakes. "Queen Tant is only distantly related to King Ferdi, but she's one of the few left. Ferdi essentially trimmed the royal house, already depleted after the fall of the previous king. She was away
[18:07] <Kotono> She was away until very recently and made several useful allies. They've helped us destroy and ultimately contain what lies beneath there."
01[18:08] <Seira> "Your peace offer seems genuine enough, so we'll trust you on that. Just... as long as you really do seek coexistence the same way we do, don't hesitate to swallow any pride and call upon us for help if there is a need to, at some point in the future."
[18:09] <Kotono> There's a moment after where Birist runs a hand over his face. "We do. To be frank, Malmuth needs a long period of healing now. The army we can support will likely be busy in internal matters."
[18:10] <Demedais> "A commendable point of view; while I do worry a bit... ah, but that is a long story in and of itself as to why we have interest in such ruins. Though the 'burn' concept is hardly a bad one with such toxic junk."
01[18:10] <Seira> "Well, then. A more practical question to set us back on course. All you require of us is to back off? You will defeat Olburt's forces on your own?"
[18:11] <Kotono> "Yes. Speaking of, the matter of Almand...we request that you detain him with extreme force, but there is a problem." Birist continues, "We believe that as a member of Ferdi's inner clique he may have certain...reconditions and abilities that would give normal troops great pause."
[18:11] <Alicia> "We can put him in the cell next to Pallan's," Alicia offers darkly.
[18:11] <Kotono> "Yes. Her Majesty does not want to rely on a foreign power to put down an internal matter. The crown needs to show strength with a new ruler."
01[18:12] <Seira> "A bit of a strange view since that land would become a barony, but I can see the need for a show of force." Seira nods. "And Olburt's power is a demonic regeneration. Overwhelming force, repeatedly directed towards him, should put him down. Try holy and dispel evil spells if you can, too."
[18:12] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth smiles a little at that. Not a lot, but there is indeed a little smile on his face. "You three, would you go deal with that while I discuss specifics with Birist?"
06[18:13] * Demedais nods to this. "Just like Pallan. Argh. Very well, that can be done. Claris Brightsun will likely wish at some point to come and assist you; he fled from Ferdi's iron hand. Engan may as well, though he's also dealing with paladins in training." With that, he nods to Oberuth, the same smile on his. "Certainly, sir."
[18:14] <Alicia> "With pleasure, sir," Alicia agrees, saluting smartly as she departs.
06[18:15] * Demedais salutes as well, before following Alicia.
[18:15] <Kotono> A room a few doors down has Almand, a small sitting room. The door is currently closed.
[18:16] <Alicia> "Who gets to do the honours, then?" Alicia asks before they go to open it.
[18:16] <Demedais> "Seira's hated him the longest."
01[18:16] <Seira> "Demedais hasn't humiliated a Malmuthian yet."
06[18:16] * Seira snickers, then. "Plus, he's weak to men."
[18:16] <Alicia> "All yours, then," Alicia defers to her fellow lieutenant.
06[18:17] * Demedais eyes Seira. "So managing to run for a week through Malmuthian terrain didn't put egg on their face? Very well. Shall we go for surprise or politeness?"
[18:17] <Demedais> "Surpise?"
01[18:17] <Seira> "Demedais," Seira says gravely. "I want you to go in and punch him in the face."
[18:17] <Alicia> "Politeness. We're not barbarians, after all," Alicia states firmly. "If he resists, so be it."
06[18:17] * Seira pouts. "Please punch him?"
[18:18] <Demedais> "You see, this is why I asked first." Demedais grins. "I will go in and be polite. If he does not agree, I will punch him with my sword. Okay?"
01[18:18] <Seira> "As long as you break his nose," Seira relents.
06[18:18] * Demedais opens the door at this and looks in. "Almand."
[18:19] <Kotono> Almand sits at a table, drinking a glass of water. He looks Demedais over, neutral. "What?"
06[18:19] * Seira takes a spot in a corner of the room.
06[18:19] * Alicia simply waits by the door, letting Demedais handle this as he likes.
[18:21] <Demedais> "To be perfectly blunt about the entire situation, you're going to be detained until we've handled this entire situation." Demedais says, the same small smile on his face as Oberuth had. "In general, we're not interested in the negotiations if the potential for another war exists, and we don't see the need to be polite about it. Also, general orders from Oberuth, duty first, all that jazz. Acceding to this peacefully will remove all chances of your nose fin
[18:22] <Demedais> "...of your nose finding its way to your liver." A pleasant tone. "Your call."
[18:24] <Kotono> "I didn't think you had it in you," Almand observes coolly. He looks over the three before, "Fine."
[18:25] <Demedais> "Yeah, well, you with your threats made us far less inclined than you would think to entertain said threats." Demedais says, tossing the manacles to Seira.
06[18:25] * Seira looks at them dumbly. "What do you want me to do with that?"
[18:26] <Demedais> "..." Demedais gives a look to Seira. "Right, I forget you aren't used to general practices of surrender. They go on his wrists as we lead him to a cell."
[18:27] <Demedais> "Also, did you just not pay attention half of the time or something?"
06[18:27] * Seira tilts her head. "Really? And that works? Wow." She heads over to Almand to place them over his hands.
01[18:28] <Seira> "I can't help it most people facing me are stupid and don't surrender when I tell them to," she grumbles. "Use of force is always threatened, and they never listen!"
[18:28] <Kotono> The manacles are clamped on. Almand looks at the three coldly, but says nothing.
[18:29] <Demedais> "I'd say you need better diplomatic abilities, but given the examples you've had, that may not be the problem more often than not." Demedais inclines his head. "So, we have a cell nearby, away from everyone else?" A look to Alicia at this.
06[18:30] * Alicia is not the jailer! She just happens to spend more time there than everyone else and... "Yes, I saw a suitable one when I was down there, yesterday. It should still be free," she replies, duty masking her weariness.
02[18:30] * NeremWorld (~Ari@pool-71-123-186-80.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[18:31] <Demedais> "Very well. Shall we?"
03[18:32] * Gate-sleeper is now known as Gatewalker
01[18:32] <Seira> "You forgot to threaten the new prisoner," Seira comments. "While our guards may not be a match for some of our guests, they have orders of what to do in case of a prisoner acting up. And the result is usually pretty bad on the guest in question."
[18:33] <Demedais> "Seira is approaching omnipresence, and always willing to punch noses in with fireballs. There, that good enough?
03[18:34] * NeremWorld (~Ari@pool-71-252-177-59.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[18:36] <Kotono> A day or two passes quietly. It is with some fanfare that Lord Salman returns, the buzz surrounding the city. So the Crimson Guard is summoned to the city hall, a fine, luxuirious room to rest in. The mood outside is festive and so is the one inside. "We have been in conference with Malmuth's agent. A final peace accord has been reached," Lord Salman states. "As the three who worked so hard to eliminate such a vile threat, our nation owes you
[18:38] <Kotono> our nation owes you a great, deep debt for your duties."
01[18:41] <Seira> "Lord Salman," Seira says in her most respectful tone of voice, "now that we've gained a new barony to the union, have you considered someone to lead it?"
06[18:42] * Demedais stands at attention, not commenting - before Seira speaks, at which he just looks at her for a long moment. "This is good news to hear, that peace can finally come. May it be a prosperous one."
06[18:44] * Alicia was about to say that they'd only done their duty as is proper, before Seira's brazen power grab makes her think it would sound a bit hollow. She manages to keep from sighing aloud, at least.
06[18:44] * Demedais looks to Alicia and nods once, clearly in sympathy.
[18:49] <Kotono> "We are considering such matters," Lord Salman states solemnly, "For now, however, we have a chance to celebrate our victory. In a night's time we shall have a great celebration in Balmuria, and we have designated the Crimson Guard as the guests of honor."
01[18:49] <Seira> "I've been thinking," Seira continues, "And a baroness is higher than a countess, right? I know just the right person for the job, and she'd make you very proud! Plus our elven allies see her in quite a high regard."
[18:51] <Demedais> "...Seira, such things can be discussed later, no?" Demedais says slightly wearily. To Lord Salman with a bow, "You do us a great honor, Lord Salman."
06[18:52] * Seira shrugs. "I suppose they can be. What do guests of honor do?"
[18:53] <Kotono> Lord Salman smiles. "I salute your constant dedication, Seira, but let this be a time of celebration. A chance to enjoy revelery and peace, for we shall put the last ball we had here to shame."
[18:53] <Demedais> "Ball." Demedais stiffens at that.
01[18:54] <Seira> "I can do this," Seira says with a nod. "A shame I didn't know in advance and came better-dressed."
06[18:54] * Alicia looks vaguely uncomfortable at the thought of attending such a function, but consoles herself with the thought that their presence will be good for morale. "You honour us, Lord Salman," she smiles politely.
[18:55] <Demedais> "Tomorrow, Seira. Not tonight. Right?" Demedais says.
06[18:55] * Seira looks confused but merely lets it slide.
[18:56] <Kotono> "Tomorrow. Do you need funds for preparations?" Lord Salman asks, "Bring your friends and allies as you wish, and will they need funds as well?"
[18:57] <Demedais> "I... no, this should... we should... ah, no, I have the funds." Demedais half-stammers out.
06[18:57] * Seira boggles at the suggestion, but controls herself instantly. "I'm good, Lord Salman!" she responds.
[18:58] <Alicia> "Likewise," Alicia demurs gracefully.
[18:58] <Kotono> "Until then," Lord Salman stands, offering each his hand to shake. "Honors and rewards will be given then."
06[18:58] * Demedais shakes his hand and bows, sweating just a bit. "Until then..."
06[18:59] * Alicia responds with a firm handshake.
[18:59] <Kotono> As he shakes Demedais' hand, "Is something the matter?" Lord Salman asks.
06[18:59] * Seira doesn't want to appear rude by refusing to shake his hand, even if it isn't really her thing, and puts on a smile for good measure!
[19:01] <Demedais> "Ah... no. Nothing relevant." Demedais shakes his head, a bit of a self-deprecating smile on his face. "It is... heh. No worries. On the morrow, then."
03[19:06] * Mikuru (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) has joined #dunes
03[19:07] * Mikuru is now known as Anastasia
03[19:07] * ChanServ sets mode: +qo Anastasia Anastasia
[19:08] <Anastasia> ---
02[19:10] * Kotono (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[19:10] <Anastasia> Panic. It's not really suited to a hero's face, even when seeing a loved one. In particular, Pollyanna seems to be wondering why Demedais might have that look on his face as they meet at Helm's temple. "Demedais?" she asks.
[19:11] <Demedais> "Hi. Uh, tell me, how much experience do you have with, ah, more formal situations?" Demedais says in a bit of a rush, leaning against a wall.
[19:12] <Anastasia> Pollyanna gives Demedais a strange look, scratching her cheek. "Like nobility?"
[19:12] <Demedais> "Like, um, a ball."
[19:12] <Demedais> "Not like a bouncing ball or a rolling one, but uh dance."
[19:14] <Anastasia> "Oh." Pollyanna looks Demedais over, before rubbing her head. "...are you going to wear your armor to it?"
[19:15] <Demedais> "Is such a thing normally appropriate?" Demedais asks quickly.
[19:17] <Anastasia> Pollyanna rubs the bridge of her nose, "Oh Demedais..." she murmurs, thinking a moment. "Mmm. I know. Come with me," Pollyanna heads out the door, starting to walk.
[19:17] <Demedais> "I, uh. ...I don't have any knowledge at all of such situations. This is... completely foreign. With Kondrux, we had a feast, that wasn't a problem, I could show up in armor to that. But this?" A quick look to make sure none of the priests are around, before speaking in a lower tone. "The priests and soldiers taught me fighting and faith, not social graces!" Following Pollyanna out, "Their idea of a good time is reading the scriptures again for a grin when
[19:19] <Demedais> "grin when Helm cracked an idiot's head for being stupid. Or the epic tales of the old wars, or in one case the reading of really bawdy romance novels." (More)
[19:19] <Demedais> "This is... this isn't something I know anything about! I argh. Why does it have to be tomorrow?"
[19:21] <Anastasia> Taking Demedais by the arm and leading him along through the strets, "I see." She mulls as she heads to the new city. "I'm going to take you to Alicia and talk to her. She always looks so striking in that armor of hers and has the presence to make it appeal. If you're going to wear your armor - preferably NOT - she can help make it look good. If not, she may have some experience making a warrior a passable looking noble for a night."
[19:23] <Demedais> "I-" Demedais pauses. "That... okay, fair, that'll work. I have a bit of money to look into passable clothing with, but my somewhat worn traveling clothes are, I suspect, inadequate."
[19:23] <Anastasia> As you head through the new quarter at a good clip, "Yes, less travelling clothes and more good clothes. Since you ARE taking me with you, aren't you?"
[19:24] <Demedais> "If you want to go. I'd rather have you at my side, but Helm only knows I would understand if you didn't want to." Demedais says with a sheepish grin.
[19:26] <Anastasia> "Of course I'm going. After all this bloody war, having something lovely is good." On Demedais is lead, to Alicia's house. Behind it the new Temple of Mystra is being finished. Despite all the activity there, Alicia's actual door is relatively peaceful. Pollyanna knocks on it a few times.
[19:28] <Alicia> After a moment the door opens to reveal Alicia... she really does keep her sword on her when just puttering around the house, it seems. "Oh, hello, Pollyanna, Demedais," she nods to both, "Is this a social visit or..."
[19:28] <Demedais> "Ah."
[19:29] <Anastasia> "Oh. Some of that, some of a cry for help," Pollyanna says to her.
06[19:29] * Alicia raises an eyebrow. "Perhaps you should come inside," she opens the door fully and steps back. "What kind of help?"
[19:30] <Demedais> "The, uh, ball tomorrow." Demedais says, nervously.
[19:30] <Anastasia> "It's for Demedais," Pollyanna leads him inside, "Do you know of the ball that's coming up? Would you believe that he doesn't know if he should wear his armor to it or not?"
[19:31] <Demedais> "She would know of it, she's another of the guests of honor." Demedais says, rubbing his head.
[19:32] <Alicia> "It's hard to dance in plate mail," Alicia notes with an appraising glance over Demedais as she leads them to the sitting room. "Admittedly I'll probably feel a bit awkward myself going unarmed and unarmoured, considering how things have been, lately..."
[19:33] <Anastasia> "Isn't it?" Pollyanna smiles, "But I came to you for two things. First of all, you're a warrior, so you know just as well the problems Demedais may be having. Secondly, if he does wear his armor...well, you look so nice in yours. You can help him be acceptable in it."
[19:34] <Demedais> "There is that, I suppose, though I suppose I have no problem going unarmored if I actually have clothing that would be appropriate. Argh. Tomorrow. Why tomorrow. Well, at least it's not today..."
[19:35] <Anastasia> Listening to Demedais, Pollyanna shakes her head. "Does he act this way around demons or dragons?" she asks Alicia.
[19:35] <Demedais> "Besides, Stronger was nice and helped me figure out a way to pretty much put it on and take it off immediately, so."
[19:36] <Demedais> "No, because those I know I can stab and the problem goes away."
[19:36] <Demedais> A second of thought. "I suppose that's a sign I work with Seira too much."
[19:36] <Anastasia> "I think that's a sign that..." Pollyanna merely sighs. "Oh Helm."
06[19:37] * Demedais looks to Pollyanna. "A sign that what?"
[19:37] <Alicia> "Balmuria has enough tailors, but you really should get there soon so you can have something properly fitted," Alicia shakes her head. "Thank you, by the way," she briefly favours Pollyanna with a smile for her compliment. "But really, you're making this out far worse than it is - you just have to wear something nice and stand around. If you dance with anyone it'll be with Pollyanna, so it's not like you have anything to worry about, there.
[19:38] <Alicia> worry about, there."
06[19:39] * Demedais blinks. "So it's nothing like that dementia we had to deal with in the alternate universe in the ruins?"
[19:39] <Anastasia> "......" Pollyanna stares at Demedais very long. "...what?"
[19:40] <Anastasia> "No really, what? Dementia? How does that have anything to do with a celebratory ball?"
[19:40] <Alicia> "No," Alicia explains patiently. "Those people were warped in the head by magic, remember? This is Balmuria, do you think people you know here will suddenly start acting strangely just because they're at a ball?"
[19:41] <Anastasia> "Of course they won't," Pollyanna picks up on that, "Alicia's right. There are plenty of good tailors in town."
[19:41] <Demedais> "The ball they were having in Lord Stargazer's court before the dragon." Demedais specifies. "And... okay. Point. There was magic there. That would likely explain their irrationality. That helps." A few deep breaths, before nodding. "Okay. Tailor. Can I feasibly avoid garish coloring?"
[19:42] <Alicia> "Up to you," Alicia shrugs, "Men can get away with a lot more than women for these sorts of things."
[19:42] <Demedais> "That seems unfair."
[19:43] <Alicia> "Some women like garish colours," Alicia follows up with an almost condescending smile.
[19:45] <Demedais> "But yeah, we ended up having a nightmare of a time dealing with a huge ball filled with nobles that had some enchantment over it. And then a dragon broke in." Demedais says, to Pollyanna. "The usual. If you like garish, I'll do it, but otherwise I'd rather avoid that."
[19:46] <Anastasia> "Those women are...different," Pollyanna matches Alicia's smile. "Don't worry about them. We'll get you something understated and that matches with me. Black's always good."
[19:48] <Demedais> "That'd work just fine." Demedais says, nodding.
[19:49] <Anastasia> "Yes...and oh, Alicia. Are you bringing anyone special?" Pollyanna asks. "I don't recall hearing of anyone, though."
[19:49] <Demedais> "Your sister and Antenora would probably enjoy coming, but is there anyone else?" Demedais inclines his head in agreement.
[19:51] <Alicia> "Ah, no," Alicia shakes her head. "I've invited those two, but no one 'special'," she replies.
06[19:52] * Demedais nods slightly. "You think Seira will bring... ah..."
[19:54] <Alicia> "Lady Gaial?" Alicia fills in. "I don't know. Pallanth is very far away, but Celebrimbor is in Balmuria right now and he could teleport, I suppose, if she asked him."
06[19:55] * Demedais nods once. "Possible. Anyway. Tailor?"
[19:56] <Alicia> "I'd recommend one if I had much knowledge, there, but..." Alicia trails off apologetically. "The one down by the Lower Gate seems to do a brisk trade, I've noticed, so it's probably popular for a reason."
[19:58] <Demedais> "Alright."
[19:59] <Anastasia> "Yes. Demedais, why don't you head along? I need to talk to Alicia about girl things a moment." Pollyanna smiles to him.
[20:00] <Demedais> "Ah... okay." Demedais nods once, not missing the subtext. "Since I don't need to be around to embarrass myself any further, I'll try and contain myself until after the ball to stress out, then. See you there."
Session Close: Fri Feb 15 20:01:56 2008

Session Start: Fri Feb 15 20:01:56 2008
Session Ident: #dunes
02[20:01] * Disconnected
02[20:02] * Attempting to rejoin channel #dunes
03[20:02] * Rejoined channel #dunes
03[20:02] * Topic is 'The room of VENGEANCE! | Christopher>Alicia'
03[20:02] * Set by Kotono on Thu Feb 14 21:40:20
03[20:02] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Corwin
06[20:02] * Alicia gives Demedais a little wave before turning to Pollyanna. "Girl things?" she repeats, sounding vaguely mystified.
[20:02] <Anastasia> Once Demedais is gone, "Aaah, is Seira bringing Lady Gaial?" she half repeats, raising an eyebrow. "Well yes, I'm curious as to what you meant by that now!"
03[20:03] * Corwin is now known as Seira
[20:04] <Alicia> "I don't know if she is or isn't," Alicia admits, "But the two are very, ah... fond of one another, I've noticed." She shrugs after a moment, "I'm not really one for gossip, so I suppose we'll just see what happens if Seira does bring along a guest?"
[20:06] <Anastasia> "Ah." Delicately coughing, "Thank you, I was curious to that statement. Also, I wanted to ask if you wanted a date for the ball. I know a few good, well meaning soldiers and officers who would love the chance, if you're of a mind."
06[20:08] * Alicia shakes her head. "Thank you for the offer, but I'm not looking for companionship of that nature. I wouldn't want to string anyone along."
[20:09] <Anastasia> Pollyanna smiles a little, "Yeah, I know what you mean. I used to think that way - when you're moving along and living by fighting, it's better not to get attached."
[20:10] <Alicia> "Out of curiousity, what changed your opinion?" Alicia asks idly.
[20:10] <Anastasia> With a deep, long blush, "Aaah...you saw my reason walk out a few moments ago."
[20:14] <Alicia> "He's a good catch," the paladin nods. "If I were a few years younger I might even be tempted, myself..." she adds, sounding quite serious, though surreptitiously studying Pollyanna's reaction.
[20:15] <Anastasia> Pollyanna's color grows darker, eyeing Alicia. "Aaah...yes, I can understand that..." Her gaze at Alicia turns stronger, piercing. "And you do spend a lot of time with him..."
06[20:17] * Alicia laughs a little bit. "It was a joke!" she insists. "I've been known to make them, rarely." Letting a moment pass for that to settle in and hopefully calm the archer, "In all seriousness, though, I'm happy for you both. You've got nothing to worry about from me, I assure you."
[20:18] <Anastasia> "...oh." Pollyanna's color tones down, avering her eyes. "...Sorry. Sorry, gah. It's a bad subject for me still. The thought of losing anyone..." She shakes her head at it.
[20:20] <Alicia> Giving Pollyanna a friendly pat on the back, "I understand. It's not easy, to lose someone you love. It speaks well of your character how you've kept going - and of Demedais, too, for being there for you," she offers approvingly.
[20:22] <Anastasia> "Yeah." Pollyanna picks herself up, "Thanks. I should get going and catch up with Demedais. I still wonder if he'll take it to mean that he should paint his armor black for this."
[20:25] <Alicia> "Wearing black armour just has all sorts of bad connotations for paladins," Alicia mutters as she shows Pollyanna to the door. "Admittedly I've never met a blackguard, but every story you hear about one of us going rogue, it's always with the black armour."
[20:29] <Anastasia> "At least it's not a devil..." Antenora murmurs something else under her breath, but it stays low. "I'll see you there."
[20:29] <Alicia> OOC: Anty?
[20:30] <Anastasia> OOC: Pollyanna.
06[20:31] * Alicia isn't even sure how to parse that statement, so just decides it isn't worth pursuing. "Bye, Pollyanna," she waves as the girl departs.
03[20:32] * Anastasia is now known as Kotono
[20:32] <Kotono> ----------------------------------------------
[20:36] <Kotono> The next evening the entire town is in celebration! Revelers line the streets and the citizens let loose the horrors of the war and all it's tension out. A large hall in the new quarter has been commissioned for this. It's doors are thrown wide open, festivities inside. Here the elite, honored and rich gather, the celebration spilling out throughout the streets. (More)
[20:41] <Kotono> As each enters, they can see the insides. Tables of food and drink are laid out, discussion and dances behind had. Music plays from the sides, everyone here andt here. You can see Elle chatting with a few men, a sharp, red dress worn. IN other places, you can see jugglers and bards act, Commander Oberuth watching them absently, those his gaze tends to sweep about. (More)
[20:42] <Kotono> Claris lingers in the back, wearing his normal clothes and watching. HIs gaze keeps moving as well, but he stays quiet. Donald lingers near the doors, keeping a watch as well.
06[20:44] * Demedais walks in with Pollyanna, also looking around somewhat warily.
06[20:45] * Seira strolls right in, clad in her elven noble's dress. Though she carries a longsword by her side, it is in fact the artifact they managed to retrieve from the late King Ferdi, and thus not something she would just leave lying around, allowing it to escape her sight. She pauses briefly, spotting Demedais, and then leans over to Amaryl to whisper a few details about he and his date to her.
06[20:47] * Demedais idly shuffles a bit uncomfortably. "Are all such clothes normally this form-fitting?" he asks Pollyanna softly and a bit uncomfortably.
[20:48] <Kotono> Pollyanna wears a simple black dress, save for one spot of gold, a necklace around her throat. "That was the idea," she smiles back to him, taking his hand. "Why don't you go introduce me around?"
06[20:49] * Alicia arrived early in order to ensure some of her own (and Antenora's) items were securely stored nearby and accessible in case of an emergency. Dressed in a modestly elegant blue dress with white accents, she seems quite at ease as she lingers with Antenora and Jessica off to the side of the dancefloor.
[20:49] <Kotono> Amaryl listens, looking about. She eyes a few humans and gets a few gazes herself, so she stays fairly close to Seira. "Oh, is that his...?"
[20:50] <Demedais> "Ah, certainly." Demedais nods once, greatsword in a simple sheath on his back with the shield in front of it. "First, how about Claris...? Claris, this is Pollyanna; Pollyanna, Claris Brightsun, servant of Lathander."
01[20:50] <Seira> "Pretty much," Seira agrees. "Want to meet her? She's a very nice girl, not too shabby with a bow. And took to leadership well when I got her to command a group of archers."
[20:50] <Kotono> Jessica drinks a small glass of wine, looking about. "I'm going to go look around," She tells Alicia, before going to do that. Antenora lingers behind, wearing simple white. It contrasts sharply and alluringly with her black hair. "That was a good idea. I would so be irritated if a devil decided this was the time to strike."
[20:51] <Alicia> "Having everyone distracted by a ball does seem to be a diabolically appropriate time to strike, yes," Alicia observes, her tone and expression not giving anything away.
[20:52] <Kotono> Demedais leads Pollyanna back, Claris smiling briefly. "I think we met in passing once or twice, maybe?" he offer shis hand, a brief shake. "I'm here, mostly to keep an eye out. Someone needs to...and I'm not entirely comfortable celebrating, given the cause."
06[20:53] * Demedais inclines his head in brief. "Have you heard of this Queen Tant before, out of curiousity?"
[20:53] <Kotono> "Sure," Pollyanna gets Amaryl's eyes, "She looks like it."
[20:54] <Kotono> "It would be. Turning a celebration into a chorus of lamentations..." Antenora lets her voice trail off at that. There's a certain nastiness to it, before she makes a thick, unpleasant sound.
[20:54] <Kotono> OOC - Gah.
[20:54] <Kotono> "It would be. Turning a celebration into a chorus of lamentations..." Antenora lets her voice trail off at that. There's a certain nastiness to it, before she makes a thick, unpleasant sound. "Do you want to celebrate, Alicia? I can stand watch."
06[20:56] * Alicia shrugs, not really having much to distract her attention at the moment, anyway. "The night is young. Lets just see how things go..."
06[20:56] * Seira takes Amaryl's hand, leading her over to Demedais and Pollyanna.
[20:57] <Kotono> "The name is familiar, but not much." Claris glances around, "I had thought she'd vanished during Ferdi's rise, but it sounds as if she fled instead. She's got to be at least...50 by now? She won't be a long reigning Queen, most likely. Lathander willing, she will be able to guide Malmuth well while she does live, though."
[20:57] <Kotono> As Claris speaks, he nods slightly. "Seira."
06[20:58] * Seira gives him a short wave with her free hand. "How goes?"
06[20:58] * Demedais inclines his head in agreement. "Indeed- hm? Oh, hello, Seira, Amaryl." A slight bow.
[20:58] <Kotono> As you talk, the music cascades over the hall. It's pleasant and soothing, nothing like discordant or angry verses, nor are any of the dancers a thick, impenetrable wall.
[20:58] <Kotono> "Always to watch..." Antenora murmurs that. "Do you live by that?"
[20:59] <Kotono> "Oh, so that's Amaryl?" Pollyanna looks her over before slightly curtesying. "It's an honor to meet you."
[21:00] <Kotono> Claris smiles back to her, "Good evening."
[21:00] <Kotono> Meanwhile, one can see Jessica go talk to a well dressed man. He smiles a moment, before he looks at her. His eyes narrow as he turns away, taking his ale and food with him. Jessica looks surprised, before she shoots him a genuinely nasty look and goes to get a drink herself.
06[21:01] * Demedais looks over the crowd carefully as they all socialize, frowning a bit at the reaction to Jessica.
01[21:01] <Seira> "So, did we miss anything?" Seira asks, looking around herself.
[21:02] <Alicia> "I have to. You yourself have warned me often enough that Hell could strike us at any time, and they're not our only enemies," Alicia replies placidly, drumming her fingers on her thigh to the music. "Laxness breeds tragedy..." she adds as her gaze is drawn to her sister and her unfortunate encounter, choosing to give the man a bit of a glare of her own.
[21:02] <Kotono> Entering now is a small gaggle of Waukeen's clergy. They look about, a few breaking off to fall into discussions with others.
06[21:02] * Seira gives them another friendly wave, tacking on a smile for good measure.
[21:02] <Kotono> "Not much," Claris answers. "Most everyone is talking or well ontheir way to a long morning hangover. Lord Salman hasn't arrived yet."
01[21:03] <Seira> "Well, then...." Seira returns her eyes to her date. "Wanna dance?"
06[21:03] * Demedais looks back to Claris with a slight cough. "Those, ah... I suppose they would be common, wouldn't they, for most?"
[21:03] <Kotono> "Yes." Antenora's eyes sweep about as well. "I look at people like that, who are having fun with no regard for anything else. Being innocent is a quality of good, isn't it? Pure, untanished innocent unstained by evil?"
[21:03] <Kotono> Seira gets a wave back. Amid them is Mia - she eyes Seira and waves most heartily.
[21:04] <Kotono> Amaryl smiles, "...okay," she lightly blushes, "Whenever you want, Seira."
[21:05] <Kotono> "I suppose, yes." Claris cracks a slight smile. "They're horrible things. I think they're a gift from some wise god, since otherwise these gatherings would last until the next night."
[21:05] <Demedais> "I wouldn't know, but that is truly a frightening thought."
06[21:06] * Seira pulls Amaryl away with a laugh at her shyness. "That's Mia," Seira whispers to Amaryl, placing her arms on her sides. "I think she might become a friend."
[21:06] <Kotono> Meanwhile, Jessica goes about. With a deep, strong drink her hand she walks about, eyeing people. A few people seem to find her gaze unpleasant, though some do not. Those that do get a haughty, nasty look, those that don't get as mile or even a bit of conversation.
[21:06] <Kotono> "See that?" Pollyanna speaks up, "Seira has a good idea. Demedais, let's dance and talk politics some other night."
[21:06] <Alicia> "Having fun with no regard for anything else is hardly good," Alicia notes with a frown. "But are they really doing so with no regard for anything else?" she then adds, gesturing at the attendees. "I think they're taking a chance to decompress and relax after a tense few weeks with the threat of invasion. I can hardly begrudge them that."
[21:07] <Alicia> Seeing her sister at least having some success with her mingling, Alicia can't help but smile with some pleasure for Jessica's sake. Just a shame some people are being so rude...
[21:07] <Kotono> "Mmm." Antenora listens to it, "Perhaps so. It's a mocking stereotype in Hell. A little angel child, so innocent that it's stupid and bloated on it's own foolishness. Shielded from everything, worthless except to kill."
[21:08] <Kotono> "Oh! ARe you going to talk to her then now, Seira?" Amaryla sks, waving to her as well.
06[21:08] * Demedais watches the two go, an eyebrow raised. "Ah, sure. ...This does have to be even more uncomfortable for you than it is for me, Claris. Don't feel compelled to stay in here if you don't want to, okay? It's nice outside as well." With that, Demedais follows Pollyanna onto the floor.
[21:09] <Kotono> "I want to see the awards." Claris says, letting his smile drop. "Enjoy yourselves." At that, Demedais is dragged to the dance floor! Pollyanna smoothly leads him to the edge, taking his hands. "You lead," she murmurs.
[21:09] <Alicia> "Then there's the stereotype of a fat and bloated imp, so mired in its own decadence and used to pulling strings that it can't do anything for itself?" Alicia counters. "Really, such stereotypes only exist for making one side feel good about itself compared to the other."
01[21:09] <Seira> "I only get to see you every now and then. Unless she has earth-shattering news, it can wait until tomorrow," Seira responds. "But if you want to meet her, we can do that in a bit."
[21:10] <Kotono> As she smiles and talks to one of the men, there's a bit of noise. One of the ones she glared at comes up behind her, a nasty few words coming from his mouth. Even from here, it's easy to lipread 'Murderer'."
[21:10] <Demedais> "I lead what?" Demedais asks, before, "Oh. Okay, I think I know this?" With that, he tries to recall how the steps go, taking care to at least stay away from stepping on Pollyanna's feet.
[21:11] <Alicia> "Excuse me," Alicia tells Antenora as she begins to smoothly but swiftly make her way across to the impending fracas.
[21:11] <Kotono> "That's true on occasion. An imp that's highly respected but not promoted for whatever reason could end up that way. Sometimes, one's talent at a role is so overwhelming that promotion is denied in favor of pure advancement within that form. Those imps you speak of exist in rare cases."
[21:11] <Kotono> Antenora stops as Alicia departs, "I'll keep watch," she offers.
[21:11] <Kotono> "I'd love to," Amaryl smiles, going by a table to grab a drink as she goes with Seira.
[21:12] <Kotono> OOC - Dex check, Deme, since I don't think either of you have much formal training.
[21:12] <Demedais> OOC: Oh for the love of. >_>
01[21:12] <Seira> "Would you be incredibly jealous if I asked someone for one dance?" Seira asks Amaryl, eyeing the situation.
[21:12] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 asdf.
06[21:12] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 asdf. and gets 9."12 [1d20=8]
[21:12] <Kotono> Jessica turns, her cheeks lighting up. As Alicia approaches, she sees Jessica turn, her hand lashing out! The slap is heard clearly, a red mark on the man's face. As Alicia does get close, "That's ont me," she says sharply.
[21:13] <Kotono> "Is there a good reason?" Amaryl ask sback.
06[21:13] * Demedais looks up once quickly and sees the word mouthed, plus the slap. "...at least Alicia is approaching..."
[21:13] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
06[21:13] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 7."12 [1d20=4]
[21:13] <Kotono> Meanwhile, Demedais and Pollyanna begin to dance. Neither of them seems to quite be that good at it, trying to go along. At least they aren't tripping each other.
06[21:13] * Demedais turns so Pollyanna can watch and begins subtly moving toward the area. "Why does drama always happen?"
06[21:14] * Seira winces. "It just might be too late. Since I don't want this to ruin things for us, give me a moment to try and diffuse it?" And she strides after Alicia towards the scene, gritting her teeth.
[21:14] <Kotono> The man puts a hand to his cheek, "I know your face," he retorts. "You're nothing but murderous gutter trash."
[21:14] <Alicia> "Sir, if you have a problem with my sister, I suggest you drop it," Alicia announces her presence as she smoothly puts herself between Jessica and the man. "Or else I will have to ask you to leave."
[21:15] <Kotono> The man - in good shape but with pale skin and uncalloused hands - sees Alicia. His color drains and he scurries away very quickly, turning. He sees Seira approachinga s well, beelining away from her and towards the food.
01[21:15] <Seira> "Hello, Alicia plus sister," Seira greets them, approaching.
06[21:16] * Alicia remains where she is for a moment, cooly surveying all the other gawkers and making it very clear without need for words that she won't appreciate seeing any similar scenes. "Captain," she gives Seira a brief nod.
[21:16] <Kotono> Pollyanna glances back as the two dance, "Ugly," she murmurs. "Some people have no tact." People around watch, though most keep a respectful distance.
[21:16] <Kotono> Jessica takes a long draught from her drink, "I'm fine, thank you," she says to both of them. "There's just a few complete beasts here."
[21:16] <Demedais> "Indeed." Seeing the crisis averted, Deme re-'steers' toward the center of the room. "So, uh."
01[21:16] <Seira> "Please, I'm not on duty if this hasn't clued you in," Seira says, gesturing at her dress. She turns to face Jessica. "Enjoying yourself, aside from the unpleasantness here?"
[21:17] <Kotono> "Shh," Pollyanna leans into Demedais, slowing down the place and resting his head against his chest. "No talk, just try and dance."
06[21:17] * Demedais shrugs and goes with it. "Very well."
[21:17] <Kotono> "I'm going to enjoy myself," Jessica says very quietly. "Come Hell or rude know nothings. Thank you, Seira."
[21:19] <Kotono> Pollyanna seems content for a slow, careful dance. A few others dance around the two, the slow, steady work soothing in it's own way. With the murmur of the chat around, a gentle buzz can lull one's senses.
06[21:19] * Seira extends a hand, bowing lightly. "A dance to forget all about it?"
06[21:19] * Demedais mainly looks at Pollyanna, though his gaze does sweep across the area every few moments as he gets into the pattern of steps.
06[21:21] * Alicia sighs and turns to Jessica. "I'm sorry, Jessica. Try not to let them get to you," she tries to encourage her.
[21:22] <Kotono> Jessica eyes the hand, "I suppose a single dance won't hurt. I could use a warm up." She smiles lightly at Seira, taking her hand.
[21:22] <Kotono> "I won't," Jessica adds after.
[21:23] <Kotono> It's a pretty easy slow dance. A few steps here, a few steps there. A slow, steady motion that's easy to pick up on, really. Meanwhile, Demedais glances out the front as he does. Eudard of Torm can be seen outside, gazing inside.
06[21:23] * Seira returns the smile, grasping the offered hand more firmly, and resolving to lead Jessica.
06[21:23] * Demedais meets his gaze for a few moments before continuing his sweep as he dances.
[21:24] <Alicia> Giving Seira a slightly grateful smile, Alicia wanders back over towards Antenora. "Hmph... the old Beth may have deserved such treatment, but somehow I doubt he'd have had the courage to speak to her that way if she acted the way she used to instead of how she is, now," she can't help but note unhappily.
[21:24] <Kotono> Seira and Jessica take to the dance floor. It's a slow dance, Jessica's agile feet seeming to have no problem at all. "It doesn't bother you at all?"
[21:25] <Kotono> Eudard eyes Demedais, his face impassive as he keeps a watch.
01[21:25] <Seira> "You're staying with your sister for the time being, right?" Seira asks, while casting a glance at Amaryl. As Jessica speaks, Seira tugs at her shoulders. "I'm betting everything I have on Alicia and her judgement."
[21:26] <Kotono> "It's funny. I'd probably get a better reaction than her, and her deeds were but a drop compared to mine," Antenora's observation is dark but having a certain wryness to it. "As I was before, I'd have caused terror in most here."
06[21:26] * Demedais continues the pattern, content in it as he keeps watch and knowing others are as well, yet still enjoying this motion.
[21:26] <Kotono> Amaryl is having a drink and talking lightly to a nice man there. "Yes. I'll be there awhile, I rather like all the books Mystra's library has...er, the Temple of Mystra."
[21:27] <Kotono> "Demedais," Pollyanna murmurs as the dance goes on. "Could you get me a drink?"
01[21:28] <Seira> "We have quite the library, ourselves," Seira comments. "Feel free to step by the Temple to Waukeen. The public library may not match Mystra's for the magical topics, but it is far more diverse by its very nature."
[21:28] <Alicia> "All of your misdeeds were a universe away... hers hit far closer to home for everyone here," Alicia notes as she resumes surreptitiously scanning the ballroom for any further trouble. "And were you unclad by any disguise, such as he would likely be too afraid to challenge you about them, regardless."
[21:29] <Demedais> "Anything in particular you want?" Demedais asks, looking up for a moment to spot the nearest table.
[21:29] <Kotono> "Oh, thank you," Jessica smiles, a far cry from what she was once before. "Reading relaxes me."
06[21:31] * Seira nods in approval. "I hate stupid people. Hearing of those that actually read for fun and pleasure? It would have made my day on a regular occasion." She smiles. "Of course, today I'm pretty happy even without this."
[21:31] <Kotono> "Mmm..." Antenora ruminates on that, as Alicia's gaze sees nothing normal. "I still don't fully understand it. About how someone could forgive a devil." Antenora shakes her head, "The more I look back, the more I'm staggered that any being possesses that forgiveness."
[21:32] <Kotono> "Yes...aaah!" Jessica lowers her voice, "The lady Amaryl's your...aaah...friend?" she clears her throat. "Do you want to go back to her? I dont' want to take you away from that."
[21:32] <Kotono> "Something light," Pollyanna smiles easily, "I'm going to go outside and get air a moment."
[21:33] <Demedais> "Very well. Meet you there?" Demedais says, nodding and looking to the closer door.
01[21:33] <Seira> "She understands," Seira responds. "Or she'll hate me forever? But I'm willing to bet on the former." Nevertheless, she directs the two of them towards the group of Waukeen clergy. "Speaking of visiting the temple, here are some of the nice people that tend to it," Seira states, nodding at them.
[21:34] <Alicia> "The fact that you're actively working to make up for your prior misdeeds is sufficient for me," Alicia replies easily. "Forgiveness is wasted upon those who won't do anything with it."
[21:35] <Kotono> Pollyanna nods and heads outside, leaving Demedais alone for the moment.
[21:35] <Kotono> It's Mia, another man you don't know, and the head priest. "Oh, Seira!" Mia gushes, "I haven't had a chance to talk to you about IT since it's been so hectic." she begins, drinking from a wineglass.
06[21:36] * Demedais quickly heads to grab a cup of light wine, before heading out to meet Pollyanna again.
[21:36] <Kotono> "Yes...and about that, there's something I remember. The Throne Archon we met in the ruins, do you remember when it spoke to you and then it spoke to me?" Antenora goes on.
01[21:36] <Seira> With an apologetic smile at Jessica, Seira lets go of her and approaches Mia, firmly taking the glass of wine from her hand. "Bad, bad habit," she lectures the acolyte. "Stop now or I will share embarrassing stories of the last time you did this."
[21:37] <Alicia> "You never did sat what she said," Alicia observes, turning towards the erinyes. "Going to share, now?"
[21:37] <Kotono> Outside, Demedais finds the strees thick with celebrators. Pollyanna has stopped, listening to Eudard. "...meet. I believe I saw you at the garrison before with Demedais..aaah. And there he is," Eudard looks up to him.
[21:38] <Kotono> "It's...personal." Antenora says at last. "There's one part - about how much the heavens missed their lost children."
[21:38] <Demedais> "Hello, Eudard." Demedais says, handing Pollyanna the cup. "Finding any enjoyment tonight?"
[21:38] <Alicia> "Go on?" Alicia murmurs.
[21:38] <Kotono> "Aaah, this is one glass. After drwarven drinks, I don't even feel anything from a glass of wine." Waving her hand easily and sharply eyeing Seira, "Speaking of! I got a few to come to town and talk while you were away."
06[21:39] * Seira gestures at Jessica, waving her over with the same motion. "Have you met Alicia's sister?" she asks the three. "She's expressed an interest in books and knowledge, which I found quite refreshing." At Mia's words, she blinks, before looking quite pleased. "Would you come along and tell me all about it?"
[21:39] <Kotono> "I'm just seeing the celebrations," he says, "I don't have much time to waste with this. Torm's work is never done." He does offer his hand out, however. "Congratulations on the Baronies' victory."
[21:40] <Kotono> "The Erinyes are fallen angels. When I think about how much it staggers me...it's like a mother looking for a lost child in the night." Antenora's gaze continues to move, betraying nothing. Her voice is heavy, however. "That even after all of that, they'll forgive us if we look for it and take us home. That they still want us."
[21:42] <Kotono> Mia falls in step with Jessica and Seira. "Sure." As they start to walk, "It went okay. It was mostly everyone feeling out the positions of the others. Nothing was quite committed to, though it's promising and another visit should be soon. They're being even more cautious than I anticipated, but they're also giving more and more on it."
[21:42] <Demedais> "I'd rather have had it come peacefully, but this road has been far more peaceful, so I have no objection." Demedais takes the hand and shakes, firmly. "If I didn't suspect Salman would get quite angry if I did not attend..."
[21:43] <Alicia> "The heavens capacity to forgive dwarfs my own," Alicia confirms. "But... I can understand, though," she glances over towards Jessica, "Family is family." Cocking her head, she turns back towards Antenora, "Are many of the original Fallen still around? Or are you all now their descendants?"
[21:43] <Kotono> "Hahahaha." Eudard cracks a smile. "You really do look out of place.
[21:43] <Kotono> "
[21:43] <Kotono> Pollyanna smiles, "I'm working on that. But he is all duty first and pleasure a distant second. I'm glad someone besides Helm approves."
06[21:44] * Seira seems quite happy at the news. "That's pretty great. Mind sharing the story with Amaryl? It might be difficult to top the previous visit, with the gith, a circus from elsewhere and a visit to the elemental plane of water, but I can't just make them all bland and about a ball!"
[21:44] <Kotono> "Most of the originals are Pleasure Devils or even greater devils now. There is a Pit Fiend that was once an Erinyes." Antenora murmurs that. "I suppose some of the originals are around, though I didn't know any firsthand."
[21:45] <Demedais> "The tailor and Pollyanna both tried, believe me." Demedais comments wryly, looking at the suit with a slight eye. "I am slightly convinced that this sort of thing will never fit me, but that may just be me."
06[21:47] * Alicia hums softly as she considers that. "And what you said, after meeting Latha... do you think you can split them away from the 'true' devils? Lead them back to the heavens they spurned so long ago?"
[21:50] <Kotono> "Well..." Mia begins, "Oh yeah, wait, I heard about all that. What was that about, anyway?" she asks Seira.
[21:51] <Kotono> "You're wearing it wrong. Relax your shoulders, you're not wearing armor," Pollyanna chastises.
01[21:51] <Seira> "Which part?" she asks, coming up to Amaryl at last.
[21:51] <Kotono> "If I had the power somehow..." Antenora murmurs, "If somehow, some way I could show them all glory...yes, I think I might be able to. I hope I could."
[21:52] <Demedais> "Eh?" Demedais frowns. "My shoulders are relaxed."
[21:53] <Alicia> "Well, you'll have my support, for what it's worth," Alicia offers. "Past that... if you're careful you've got a long time to work with, too. Even if it's only one at a time."
[21:55] <Kotono> "Oh, most of it," Mia waves her hands, as Amaryl comes up. HEr blush has grown, as econd glass of wine taken. "This stuff," hse says to Seira, "It's not that good, so I drank another drink to get the taste out of my mouth..."
[21:56] <Kotono> "They aren't. You still look like you're supporting a few dozen pounds of steel on your back," Pollyanna goes on tiptoes, pushing Deme's shoulders downward.
[21:56] <Kotono> Eudard smiles again, "A good man has that look." He inclines his head, "But I should be going now. Have a good celebration," he says, glancing long inside once more.
06[21:57] * Seira takes the glass from her and finishes it, before summoning crystal-clear water to replace it. "Here, try this," she says, returning the wineglass. "And don't accept strange drinks from strange men, please, it makes me worry a lot."
[21:57] <Demedais> "Take care, Eudard." Demedais nods, attempting to relax his shoulders still further.
[21:57] <Kotono> "Thank you." Antenora continues to gaze, "I fear I may be a unique miracle or a fluke...or, if there is more justice, that I'm the example of what can be instead."
[21:58] <Kotono> As Pollyanna does that, Demedais can notes the street is clearly. A procession is coming, lead by color bearers. Looks ilke Lord Salman's retune.
01[21:59] <Seira> "As for that...." Seira thinks back. "A circus came visiting from another plane, and they set camp beside the city. Then some bratty kid of theirs stole something belonging to warring gith traveling nearby. We had to mediate by befriending a few gith with superior magics and by punching them in the face. It worked! They all went away."
06[21:59] * Seira shrugs. "Then I wanted Amaryl to see the plane of water and meet some sea elves."
[21:59] <Demedais> "And here he comes." Demedais muses, keeping an eye on it.
[21:59] <Kotono> "Hahah," Amaryl blushes even deeper but laughs and listens.
[21:59] <Kotono> Mia nods along to it, "You have such the busy life. How do you end up living like that? I admit, I see the appeal moneywise."
[21:59] <Alicia> "You could be a trailblazer for others to follow," Alicia nods. "Your circumstances were very unique, but the fact that you've come this far might make the next one easier. Just be careful, though - I'm sure any number of fiends would love to bring you back, and wouldn't be above deception to do it."
06[22:00] * Seira eyes Amaryl as she drinks from the glass. "If you get some more water, it would countermand whatever godawful drink you chanced upon. Just drink up."
[22:00] <Kotono> Demedais sees that they're coming at a good clip. They'll be netering very soon.
01[22:01] <Seira> "As for living?" she tells Mia. "Magic, again! It makes everything better. And you keep a cleric nearby for when you meet overwhelming opposition, just in case."
[22:02] <Kotono> "Yes. If I'm lucky in their eyes, I'll merely just be returned to oblivion. As long as I stand apart from the devils, it's something I'll have to worry about." Antenora's voice hardens a little, a real smile playing over her face ."Good. I'll be more than happy to return a few to oblivion or even reach out ot them. Hell can try...but by all there is, I won't be intimidated by them."
06[22:02] * Demedais doesn't feel like his shoulders are lowering at all, but lets Pollyanna try anyway as he watches. "Mmm."
[22:02] <Kotono> It's more like a massage now, slow and steady work. "It's like you have steel in your shoulderblades!" Pollyanna gripes as she continues struggling. Her grip is strong, but it's not doing much.
01[22:02] <Seira> "Oh!" she exclaims, then. "Mia, Amaryl, you haven't met before, right?"
[22:03] <Kotono> Mia starts to reply, but stops. "Oh hi," Mia offers a slight bow. "I'm Mia of Waukeen. Nice to meet you. Another friend of Seira?"
[22:03] <Alicia> "That's the spirit," Alicia smiles enthusiastically at Antenora's demeanour.
[22:03] <Kotono> Amaryl smiles, "Yes, something like that," she says as she drinks the water.
06[22:03] * Seira puts her arm around Amaryl. "Pretty much. Want more water?"
[22:04] <Kotono> "We'll have chances enough soon," Antenora murmurs as well. "Work never ends."
[22:04] <Kotono> "I'm okay," Amaryl smiles widely. "Really."
[22:04] <Demedais> "That'd explain a few things." Demedais says dryly, looking out over the guard. "We should probably go in when they arrive."
[22:05] <Kotono> "Let's go ahead and go in now," The color guard is quite close now as Pollyanna takes Demedais' hand. "I want to have good position for this."
[22:05] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais nods, following her in.
01[22:06] <Seira> "Mia was just telling me that we'll be able to meet some dwarves living nearby," Seira comments. "Have you ever seen any?"
[22:07] <Kotono> "Once or twice. Occasionally one come sto the Council," Amaryl smiles widely, offsidedly as one lip is higher than the other. "They're amusing but have horrible manners."
01[22:08] <Seira> "Sounds about right," Seira says, mentally resolving to stay near Amaryl for the rest of the evening and not leave her again for anything.
[22:10] <Kotono> The conversation comes to an abrupt halt. "Attention!" Two color bearers come to the entrance, raising their voices. "The Archbaron Lord Salman now enters!"
06[22:11] * Alicia stiffens her posture a little bit and looks towards the entrance.
06[22:11] * Seira behaves, observing the procession. But also, since this would be an excellent time to strike, observing the guests as well.
06[22:12] * Demedais keeps an eye on the guests as well, one hand on Pollyanna's shoulder.
[22:13] <Kotono> Respectful silence quiets the room. After a small retinue of guards, Lord Salman enters. He wears a rich blue cape and walks along, nodding to people as he walks deeperwithin. He goes to the back, a gloved hand politely refusing an offered drink. Turning to the gathered, "Today," he raises his fist to the air, "We celebrate our victory! We celebrate The United Baronies! We celebrate the Crimson Guard, who have seen our nation through another
[22:15] <Kotono> nation through another crisis!"
[22:16] <Kotono> Cheers fill the hall, glasses raises and a wave of clapping coming with that. The noise is a steady, heady stream of reconigtion. "To that, I ask that the three leading members of the Guard come forward."
[22:18] <Alicia> "That's my cue," Alicia murmurs to Antenora before she gracefully strolls across the hall to approach the archbaron.
06[22:18] * Seira looks upset over having to leave Amaryl so soon. She turns to look at Mia, asking, "Please make sure Amaryl doesn't drink anything bad?" To her, she says, "I'll be back as soon as this is over with, promise!"
06[22:18] * Demedais nods to Pollyanna and does so, a bit stiffly.
06[22:18] * Seira follows Alicia and Demedais afterwards with all the grace she can muster, yet far too rarely gets to show.
[22:19] <Kotono> Mia nods discreetly to that. The three head towards Lord Salman, another wave of clapping and cheering. As they approach, "These three served our nation in it's difficulties. They have brought us prosperity and salvation from our troubles. They gird us with allies and magics, ensuring our nation will be a strong, vitality filled one!"
[22:21] <Kotono> After yet another wave of clapping, "Demedais, come forward,"Lord Salman says.
06[22:21] * Demedais nods and comes forward, facing Lord Salman.
[22:29] <Kotono> "Demedais," Lord Salman nods to him, "We thank you for your service," Lord Salman reaches within, withdrawing a small medallion. It is made of solid gold, an engraving of Balmuria carved into it. "Captain, we all thank you greatly."
06[22:30] * Demedais very slightly opens his mouth, before closing it again and bowing. "You honor me greatly. Thank you, Lord Salman."
[22:31] <Kotono> "Serve our nation well in your new rank," He says, offering the medallion to Demedais.
06[22:31] * Demedais accepts and dons it, before bowing again.
[22:33] <Kotono> "Alicia Reynes," Lord Salman calls next, after the applause settle down.
06[22:34] * Alicia steps forward after Demedais and stands before Lord Salman, bowing forward to receive whatever honours he intends to bestow.
[22:35] <Kotono> He again withdraws a golden medallion, the same encarving on this one. "You came to us on a mission of compassion and have displayed great, noble virtue throughout," Lord Salman extends the medallion to her. "You are not of this land, but you will always have a place here. We thank you, Captain."
[22:36] <Alicia> "You do me great honour, my Lord," Alicia accepts the medallion before she straightens up, silently enjoying this brief moment of rank parity before Seira gets her promotion.
[22:39] <Kotono> "Seira," Lord Salman says at last, after the noise and cheers of the onlookers quiets.
06[22:39] * Alicia withdraws to stand next to Demedais while Seira goes forward to receive her accolades.
06[22:40] * Seira approaches at the promting, her movements fluid.
[22:45] <Kotono> "You have served us well. You are the last of the first class of the Crimson Guard to remain, but you shall not be the last. Your efforts have aided us in forging ahead," He offers his hand out to Seira, a medallion in hand. "You have become the field leader of the Crimson Guard, answering only to Commander Oberuth. We hope that your leadership does the guard well, Colonel."
06[22:46] * Seira shakes Lord Salman's hand, as seems to be expected. As the medal trades owners, she inclines her head respectfully. "Thank you for the show of confidence, Sire."
06[22:47] * Demedais applauds Alicia and Seira as they go up.
[22:48] <Kotono> Applause roar down for all three, as, "Now then, let us celebrate and forget our troubles, for today we are glorious!" Lord Salman calls, as the music strikes back up again.
01[22:49] <Seira> "The medal is most shiny," Seira comments quietly, approaching Demedais and Alicia.
06[22:49] * Alicia politely joins in with the applause for the benefit of her two comrades. "Congratulations to you both, Captain, Colonel," she nods to each.
[22:50] <Demedais> "And to you two." Demedais says, an amused look at Seira.
01[22:50] <Seira> "I'm still off duty," Seira tells Alicia with a wink, but adds, "That's true, though. Demedais stole the words from my mouth."
[22:52] <Demedais> "Seira, I would like to state at this time that I think of you as the little sister I am glad I never had." Demedais claps her on the shoulder and smiles benevolently.
[22:52] <Alicia> "It is a bit odd, when I think about it, how a mere captain and two lieutenants would frequently be called upon to negotiate with generals, ambassadors, and kings..." Alicia can't help but observe. "The Baronies seem to have a skewed rank structure compared to their neighbours."
01[22:53] <Seira> "The others are the ones overblown," Seira returns with a shrug, glaring at Demedais briefly. "Their generals suck and can't measure up."
[22:54] <Demedais> "I stopped trying to figure that out when I got appointed diplomat to Malmuth at one point." Demedais gives an amused look to Alicia, missing Seira's glare.  "I just presume they work with what they have, and sometimes the titles aren't as important."
[22:57] <Alicia> "Speaking of titles and nobility," Alicia glances over in Amaryl's direction, "How is Lady Gaial, tonight, Seira?"
01[22:57] <Seira> "Just fine," Seira responds, following Alicia's eyes. "Doesn't she look pretty?"
06[22:58] * Demedais looks to Pollyanna after a glance to Amaryl.
[22:59] <Kotono> Amaryl and Mia are chatting, while Pollyanna is watching back from the sides. Her face is lit up in a smile.
[22:59] <Kotono> "Congratulations," Commander Oberuth's voice carries as he approaches.
06[22:59] * Demedais looks to Oberuth. "Thank you, sir."
[23:00] <Alicia> "Vibrant as always," Alicia agrees. "I'm glad she found time to attend... ah, Commander," she nods to Obureth, "Thank you, sir."
01[23:00] <Seira> "Thanks," Seira responds to the Commander, telling Alicia, "I can be quite insistent when I want to. Luckily, I didn't have to be, this time."
[23:01] <Kotono> "We do need to talk a few moments," Oberuth lowers his voice. "This is purely informal, but I need to begin to plan. When will you leave for the desert, and who's going?"
[23:02] <Alicia> "As soon as Elle finishes making that ring of teleportation, preferably," Alicia replies. "Since things seem settled with Malmuth."
01[23:03] <Seira> "She's actually done," Seira announces. "We can go as soon as tomorrow, if we need to."
[23:04] <Kotono> "There's no hurry from me," Oberuth clarifies, "Since I know all of you have had a lot of hard work."
[23:04] <Alicia> "Excellent," Alicia brightens. "Try not to indulge too much, tonight, then? I've been to Arad before, so I could teleport us directly there. Every day allows more fiendish reinforcements to pour into our world, after all."
01[23:05] <Seira> "Certain constraints exist," Seira muses. "I've puzzled over them, but the best idea I have so far is for Elle to scry on a place if she doesn't know one close enough and bring me along, then return with me. I would be able to use the ring, then, to come with any stragglers."
06[23:05] * Demedais closes his eyes and nods slightly. "So it would take some preparation."
01[23:06] <Seira> "Yes, there's no need to rush. We should take a few days to make sure those coming along understand how serious the matter is."
[23:07] <Demedais> "And try to get as appropriately prepared as possible; while you, I, and whoever takes the Hammer will be well defended, everyone else will want a competent offense against such evil." Demedais nods.
[23:07] <Alicia> "The longer we wait, the harder it will be - we've already lost far too much time as it is," Alicia reminds the others. "If need be I can simply purchase a few extra scrolls of teleport from Elle."
01[23:08] <Seira> "My argument is all the more valid, then," Seira responds. "If we are taking Antenora and Donald along, I want them to prepare adequately. I cannot bring Donald back once again, after all, if something goes wrong."
06[23:09] * Alicia looks somewhat confused. "What preparation is required? I don't know about Donald, but Antenora and I are quite ready, I assure you."
01[23:10] <Seira> "Also, we would not be going to Arad, but as near the oasis in question as possible." Seira shrugs at that. "Perhaps. There is also Berjand. I don't want to rush his decision. At the same time, he would be invaluable as a native guide. As Demedais and I can attest to, going into the desert without one is folly."
[23:10] <Demedais> "Rushing in and waiting too long both carry their own risks." Demedais inclines his head. "So... general count of who is going? Us three, Antenora, Donald... if anyone else is going they will want potions, possibly buy a scroll for backup from Seira, that sort of thing. I should go inquire myself in that regard and will do so tomorrow morning."
[23:11] <Alicia> "What oasis?" Alicia blinks. "The directions were to a house in Arad where the celestials there will direct us to the area of battle."
[23:11] <Demedais> "If Berjand comes, he will likely be in even greater danger than he was in the wastes. I am... not intrigued at the idea of taking him, but he may be able to stay with the angels- ah?"
06[23:11] * Seira blinks. "We're not going to the oasis at the north of the desert, where celestials are battling the devils? I thought it was what you meant."
[23:12] <Alicia> "Have you ever visited that oasis and could you teleport directly there?" Alicia asks.
01[23:12] <Seira> "Like I said, we can scry to get close enough, and have Berjand lead us the rest of the way."
[23:13] <Alicia> "The scry spell only works on people..." Alicia replies weakly. "Doesn't it? Latha gave me explicit directions, so I'd rather not just go running around randomly because of some rumours you heard while you were in the desert..."
01[23:14] <Seira> "Well, then. We'll need a couple of days to get our stories straight, but the day after tomorrow could be as good as any for departure."
[23:14] <Demedais> "If the angels have a specific way they'd want us to arrive, then it's probably best to do it that way."
[23:15] <Alicia> "What stories?" Alicia sounds more and more lost as this discussion continues. "Why would we need to get them straight? Isn't this simple enought - we go to Arad, meet our allies, and then proceed with them to join the battle at the ruins?"
01[23:16] <Seira> "You telling us all you know? Because the summary clearly hasn't been enough."
06[23:18] * Alicia represses a sigh. "Latha gave me directions to a house in Arad," she repeats said directions, "Where a small group of celestials are working from to discourage any people travelling to the area of the desert that's contested. We meet them there, and they guide us to the battleground. She said it would be far simpler than us wandering the desert by ourselves in search of trouble, and I agree with her."
01[23:19] <Seira> "Is anything in particular known about the opposition, such as numbers or what it consists of, beyond the general? Or of who would be fighting by our side? Of the ruins and what they might hold?"
[23:20] <Alicia> "No, and even if I did have such information, it would no be about a month out of date," Alicia replies. "For all we know the devils have broken past any resistance and are now running the desert fiefdoms."
01[23:21] <Seira> "Alright, then. I'll need the day I mentioned to handle my guest, then, and then I'll be available."
[23:23] <Demedais> "I would argue that not having heard anything from them yet, we can presume the line is being held; if things had happened, you likely would've gotten some form of notification. So, two days from now, morning, us three, Donald, and Antenora?"
06[23:23] * Seira nods. "And Elle to aid with the logistics, yes, before she returns."
[23:24] <Alicia> "Very well, if that's the soonest we can leave," Alicia doesn't push further. "I'll go tell Antenora." At that, she leaves in order to do exactly what she just said.
06[23:25] * Demedais rubs his head as Alicia leaves.
01[23:25] <Seira> "Don't keep Pollyanna waiting," Seira tells Demedais, waving before likewise departing towards Amaryl and Mia.
06[23:26] * Demedais returns to Pollyanna, eyes half-closed.

[Corwin]

[17:07] <Anastasia> ----
[17:08] <Anastasia> The party winds down late in the night. Midnight has come and passed, revelry slackening except amid the most dedicated. Pollyanna smothers a yawn as she looks about at it, glancing at Demedais.
06[17:11] * Demedais nods slightly to Pollyanna. "Seems things are beginning to wrap up." A lazy look to see who, notably, still remains thus far of the known people.
[17:15] <Anastasia> Countess Stronger remains. She's nursing a glass of wine and looking about with a wide, bemused smile. Beyond that, most everyone else has gone home to rest or somewhere else for more fun. "It's about time," Pollyanna agrees. "Did you have fun, Captain?"
[17:17] <Demedais> "Dancing was definitely good, and nothing dramatic occured so I'll take it." Demedais says with a grin. "Shall we?"
[17:18] <Anastasia> Pollyanna takes Demedais' arm. She sighs a moment, "...It was, but..." She looks up to him, "You're going off again soon?"
06[17:21] * Demedais gets a surprisingly irritated look on his face for a brief moment. "Yes. Heading to assist a group of angels seal an entrance to the Hells, from which apparently much has been coming." Demedais shakes his head once, and as they leave, he steers gently toward the direction of the temple, but going slowly. "While I understand the need... I grow weary."
[17:23] <Anastasia> "I know," Pollyanna pats Demedais a few times. "I wish you didn't have to go away so soon. Now that things are peaceful again, I want to spend time with you. I don't want to worry that you're risking your life against Hellspawned horrors. It's not fair..." She sniffles at that, "But...I know, I know. It's about duty, not fairness."
[17:30] <Demedais> "That too." Demedais shakes his head. "However, after this... there shouldn't be much more drama. We have the ruins, but... those can be taken at their own pace, and likely should; we want to be prepared for whatever's down there."
[17:31] <Anastasia> "Good..." Pollyanna looks to the streets a moment, but mostly quiet reigns. "What do you think about it now?"
[17:34] <Demedais> "About drama?" Demedais grins. "Hate it. Always have. But... something needs to be done, and Helm stands with me, so."
[17:43] <Anastasia> Pollyanna matches that grin, falling into giggles. "You look so happy when you talk about drama like that, though!" She lets herself get carried away on her laughs, before slowly bringing herself down.
[17:45] <Demedais> "...I'm usually more happy when it's over without complications." Demedais shakes his head. "Although some of the reactions I get to the incredibly bizarre going-ons is worth noting."
[17:46] <Anastasia> "Like?" Pollyanna looks up at Demedais. "How bad were they?"
[17:47] <Demedais> "We summoned a humongous golden dragon on Ferdi. Bigger than Kondrux and with half the sense of humor, I think." Demedais says, shaking his head.
[17:48] <Demedais> "Except this one was on our side."
[17:48] <Anastasia> "..." Pollyanna's mood changes instantly, plummeting into a certain quiet. ".....oh."
[17:51] <Demedais> "Yeah." Demedais says, shaking his head. "Kinda didn't want to mention it, but... ah." Demedais says, holding Pollyanna closer. "...ah, the stars are really spectacular tonight."
[17:53] <Anastasia> Pollyanna curls up against him, not making any sounds for a good little while. "...sorry." she murmurs, "I did ask...and..." Pollyanna makes a soft noise that means nothing. "...and...you're the one about to go risk his life again. I should bet rying to make you happy, so that you hesitate before doing anything too monumentally brave and stupid."
[17:55] <Demedais> "You did ask, and I'm dense as bricks at times." Demedais says with a slight smile. "Besides... Seira's got a method that'll let us go and return quickly, so I'll hardly be gone for long."
[17:59] <Anastasia> That gets Demedais' head knocked on by Polly's knuckles, "Good."
[17:59] <Demedais> "Heh." Demedais says, slowly altering course to Seira's inn.
[18:01] <Anastasia> Pollyanna yawns again as you walk on. The streets are dark and quiet, the last of the party fizzling out. The walk up the hill is quiet, as Pollyanna glances at Countess Stronger's shop. "...heh, I remember now..." she murmurs. "I met Seira and Shamal right around here."
[18:02] <Demedais> "Ah...?" Demedais asks, curious at this point.
[18:04] <Anastasia> "It was when the ghouls first appeared in town. I was looking around to see what was happening, since...we all thought we could make some money off of it if we eliminated the ghouls." Pollyanna blushes, "I got spotted by those two and I think Shamal lectured me."
06[18:06] * Demedais nods once. "The impulse is an understandable one, though undead are frustrating without holy tools to work with."
[18:10] <Anastasia> "Shamal..." Pollyanna's expression turns somber. "I liked her. She consoled me on the first trip to Kondrux's lair." That gets a sniffle, "It's not fair there, either. At least you and Seira came out okay."
[18:11] <Demedais> "Shamal... I did not know her long, but she was a good person. If impulsive." Demedais rubs his head for a bit. "Still... yes, what happened there was a tragedy."
[18:17] <Anastasia> "Yes..." Pollyanna stops as she stands in front of Seira's inn. "You'd better not become a tragedy, or I'll..."
[18:18] <Demedais> "Hunt me down yourself for daring to do so?" Demedais says with a grin.
[18:19] <Anastasia> "I'll find a way," Pollyanna matches that grin. "Somehow."
[18:19] <Demedais> "Knowing you, I don't doubt this for a moment." Demedais chuckled, before musing, looking at the inn contemplatively.
[18:22] <Anastasia> "Hm?" Pollyanna looks at the inn long as well. "...Demedais?"
[18:23] <Demedais> "...I wonder if they have a room for two tonight." Demedais says finally.
07[18:24] * Ginrai is on IRC (Ginrai)
[18:28] <Anastasia> Pollyanna blushes very long, "...just tell me one thing," Pollyanna murmurs.
[18:29] <Demedais> "Ah, sure. What is it?"
[18:34] <Anastasia> "Oh come on." Pollyanna's blush grows. "What do you tell any girl that you want to do THAT with?"
06[18:37] * Demedais grins slightly, holding her still closer. "That I love you, then."
[18:39] <Anastasia> Pollyanna's eyes light up, "Thank Helm you didn't botch that," she smiles, taking his hand. "...let's go." OOC - SKip along now?
[18:40] <Demedais> OOC: Sure.

[Corwin]

[20:52] <Kotono> -----
[20:53] <Kotono> The Temple of Waukeen is beginning to pick up it's business again. The sort of war between the Baronies and Malmuth was the type to never be good for overt business, but trade from the Desert Fiefdoms and beyonds trickles in. You see a few people here as you head for the Head Priest. He sits in his chambers, a few old books and scrolls arrainged about. "You might want to sit down," He offers.
06[20:55] * Seira isn't one to argue with an expert, sitting herself down quite comfortably.
[20:56] <Kotono> "Complete domination of a mind isn't easy," he begins, "There's a fifth circle magical spell that can do it, but even that has drawbacks and weaknesses. Are you familiar with Dominate Person?"
06[20:57] * Seira is indeed familiar, saying as much with a touch of distaste.
[21:00] <Kotono> "As you know, someone with a strong will is even more resistant to it and likely to shake it off. Your father's mental training and will are superb, so..." A stop, "I looked into things that could achieve this." He goes to a drawer, carefully withdrawing a pair of tongs, then taking out the cracked black gem circlet.
01[21:00] <Seira> "Yes, it was clearly this thing," Seira says with a touch of impatience.
[21:01] <Kotono> "This black gem isn't a gem at all. It's the crystallized heart of a Succubi. Succubi are powerful manipulators and corruptors....as well as being able to drain the life from mortals."
06[21:02] * Seira twitches. "Say what?"
[21:03] <Kotono> "With the power of a demonic succubi behind it, this would be a magnificent component for such a device. However, the side effects..." A stop there, "it's damaged your father's spirit and health."
06[21:04] * Seira blinks slowly. "So how are we getting him back on the road to recovery?"
[21:11] <Kotono> "A normal restoration won't do it. Unless you can produce the epitome of magic or a miracle, you'd need a like object. A creature that's dedicated to protection and forthrightness instead would be the best place to start looking."
01[21:12] <Seira> "I don't think I understand you right," Seira says slowly. "Are you telling me one would need to slay an angel, place their heart in crystallized form on a diadem and have the old man recover that way?"
[21:13] <Kotono> "No, no, no." Waving his hand, "I don't mean to kill one, but a symbol from one. Something like the sweat of an angel protecting the truth or something of the like."
[21:13] <Kotono> "With that, a magical countermeasure would be far easier."
01[21:14] <Seira> "We just so happen to be going to see a few angels," Seira mentions. "I'll ask them!"
[21:15] <Kotono> "Good luck. Saul's condition shouldn't deteriorate, but I doubt it will improve, either." Taking the tongs, "What do you want to do with this...thing? It's rather dangerous."
01[21:15] <Seira> "What happens if you touch it?"
[21:16] <Kotono> "You're touching an object dedicated to the corruption and control of mortal beings," The head priest smiles in discomfort. "The risk isn't great for casual contact, but it still exists tyat you could find yourself not feeling like you should."
01[21:16] <Seira> "What happens if a devil touches it?" Seira asks next, with some interest.
[21:17] <Kotono> "I don't know," He admits, "I don't know how this would interact with an outsider, especially a devil.:"
01[21:18] <Seira> "I'm sort of tempted to find out, but I don't really want to introduce something unpredictable...." Seira frowns. "Can it be destroyed safely?"
[21:19] <Kotono> "With a good directed burst of holy power and distance it should be safe. I say holy power since that would hopefully help mute any outbursts it's destruction would cause."
01[21:20] <Seira> "We can do that right now," Seira offers. "I can guard you in case something bad happens."
[21:24] <Kotono> "It should be done out of town and away from anyone," The head priest says. OOC - Skip ahead a bit?
01[21:25] <Seira> OOC: Sure
[21:36] <Kotono> A few miles west of Balmuria, a little field is chosen. The circlet is laid down carefully, the two heading about one hundred feet away. The head priest bows his head, "M'lady, grant me the power! I call on our agreement to demand this spell!" A flame strike crashes down from above, scorching the circlet! It shudders, shivers and then shatters in the flames! You hear a lovely female voice scream as it shatters, but nothingg else happens.
06[21:37] * Seira raises an eyebrow. "Did that voice sound grateful or angry to you?" she asks. "It's so hard to tell, with succubi."
[21:41] <Kotono> "I don't know," he shrugs, as you can see a few smoldering shards of the black gem. They melt into a gooey black fluid, sinking into the ground. The grass around it twists into abnormal shapes and colors or dies, about two patches of each.
06[21:42] * Seira motions him to step back, before setting the thing on fire for good measure.
[21:43] <Kotono> Both the dead grass and the warped grass are burnt away under Seira's spell, just leaving a large patch of burnt, destroyed grass now.

[Corwin]

[19:41] <Kotono> ---
[19:41] <Kotono> OOC: Last call for anything to do before the trip starts
[19:41] <Kotono> ?
[19:43] <Kotono> OOC: Going once...
[19:43] <Kotono> OOC: Going twice...
[19:43] <Kotono> OOC: Okay, let's begin. What was your plan for teleporting, guys?
[19:44] <Alicia> Alicia uses Seira's ring to teleport herself, Elle, and someone else to Arad. They chill for an hour while Elle familiarises herself with the place. Elle teleports back to Balmuria, grabs everyone else, then teleports to Arad with the rest of the gang.
[19:46] <Kotono> OOC: Okay. You passed through Arad on the way to the Fiefdoms, yes?
01[19:46] <Seira> OOC: Alicia happened to be there, it's all good. We haven't.
[19:46] <Alicia> OOC: I'd have pretty much had to go through there to get from Kelara to Balmuria.
[19:47] <Alicia> OOC: And I probably spent some time there, so I should be decently familiar.
[19:47] <Kotono> OOC: IO'll call you studied carefully then. Roll real quick and name your third person that's TPing with you?
[19:48] <Alicia> Seira, Deme?
[19:48] <Alicia> roll 1d2
06[19:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d2 and gets 1."12 [1d2=1]
[19:48] <Alicia> Seira, you're with me.
[19:48] <Alicia> roll 1d100
06[19:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d100 and gets 86."12 [1d100=86]
[19:49] <Alicia> Safe!
[19:49] <Kotono> ---
[19:52] <Kotono> In a wink SEira, Alicia and Elle appear. Arad is a loud place - even as your eyes adjust from the teleportation, you hear the sounds right off. The bustle of life, squawking chickens, voices calling for fresh figs and pomegrantes for sale, bleating goats, a butcher calling forth his wares. The three appear in the small alley of a inn facing one of the main agricultural district of Arad. Here dusky skinned people go about, wrapped in white or
[19:52] <Kotono> Here dusky skinned people go about, wrapped in white or brown or black clothes against the chill. There is a bustle to things, a raw energy. People often stop and talk.
[19:53] <Alicia> "Welcome to Arad, ladies," Alicia pronounces as she steps out of the alley. "Now, we can just spend some time around here so that Elle can be confident of teleporting back with Donald, Demedais, and Antenora in an hour or so?"
[19:54] <Kotono> Elle looks about, wrapped in a thick, long red coat. Compared to the more mundane colors around, she sticks out like a rose in the dead winter grass. "I'm already working on it," Elle says.
06[19:55] * Seira would probably stand out, herself, in her signature cloak adorned with a grinning, burning skull. "We could go and get that information your friends promised you on arrival," she suggests.
06[19:56] * Alicia resists the urge to pull her golden cloak in a bit tighter at the chill. "It was a lot hotter, last time I was here," she can't help but observe. She then shakes her head to Seira, "That would just mean we'll have to repeat it for the others. No harm in waiting just an hour."
06[19:56] * Seira decides to use the time to study the area, herself. One can never tell when one would like to teleport over to a neighboring country.
[19:59] <Kotono> The center is quite large, a vast open space in Arad. To the west you can see the spires and minarets of the Pasha's palace, golden and speaking of the great stored wealth of generations. Around the cripplingly poor to the flagrantly rich go about, purchasing and securing food for another day.  After an hour of this, "...ready," Elle murmurs. "Since you're in good with her, ask Mystra to make sure I don't fumble this."
06[20:01] * Alicia smiles. "Of course," she nods, before clasping her hands together and lowering her gaze. "Mother of all magic, please watch over your devoted follower here as she uses your blessings to traverse the weave on this mission of righteousness, ensure no harm comes to her and her aim be true," she prays.
[20:01] <Kotono> roll 1d100
06[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 36."12 [1d100=36]
[20:01] <Kotono> In a wink Elle vanishes, away and gone. A few moments pass, as...
[20:01] <Kotono> roll 1d100
06[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 78."12 [1d100=78]
[20:03] <Kotono> Within a minute, four return. Donald, Demedais and Antenora appear. "There you go," Elle pronounces, "Good luck, all of you."
[20:03] <Kotono> Donald shivers a bit, stepping away from Demedais. "...damned cold." he says aloud. "I thought the desert was supposed to be an inferno."
01[20:04] <Seira> "Much appreciated!" Seira tells Elle, before shrugging. "Maybe it's snowing in hell?"
[20:04] <Kotono> Antenora looks unbothered, before she chuckles at Seira. "It can. Go visit Cania one day."
[20:04] <Alicia> "Thanks. Look after Balmuria while we're gone," Alicia returns to the redhead. "You should see this place in the Summer," she then tells Donald. "Anyway, everyone ready?"
01[20:04] <Seira> "Is that an invitation? I think I might!"
06[20:05] * Demedais shrugs his cloak over shoulders unburdened by armor, shivering a bit. "Yeah, I'm ready. Let's go before we get Seira too distracted."
[20:05] <Kotono> "Good luck," Ell steps back a bit, taking out a scroll and starting to read from it. "I will. I'll make sure Pollyanna stays busy, too."
[20:05] <Demedais> "That'd be appreciated."
[20:06] <Alicia> Giving Elle a wave, Alicia proceeds to lead the party to the house Latha indicated they were using as their base of operations within Arad.
06[20:06] * Seira acts much like a traveler, looking at the sights as she follows.
06[20:07] * Demedais follows Alicia, not looking around anywhere near as often. Time to sightsee after duty is done.
[20:07] <Kotono> Through the streets the party goes. Out of the agricultural distrct, the roads are wide and well travelled. The houses are of sturdy stone and interlinked, painted a well kept, glossy, reflective white. Animals of burden and food wander the streets, many people at work. This also includes some that are not - the poor, often wearing worn clothes or emancipated. The party gets a lot of attention as they pass, and as they go down one long street
[20:07] <Kotono> long street? (More)
[20:08] <Kotono> "Sir!" A weak voice calls, coming from a dark alley. A young man with only one arm comes forth, limping. He wears old white clothes, "Sirs! Great sirs!"
06[20:10] * Seira obliges him and turns to look at the man curiously. "Yes? How can we help you?"
06[20:10] * Alicia turns her attention to the unfortunate cripple, but lets Seira handle the talking since she volunteered.
06[20:11] * Demedais follows the voice, sweeping with detect chaos out of idle curiousity.
[20:11] <Kotono> He bows deeply to everyone, "Sirs, you have the look of great ones to you." His voice is low, reverential. "May I ask you for a moment of your time?"
[20:12] <Kotono> Donald looks on, smiling a bit. "Do you want money?" he asks, "If you need money for food, I have a few coins."
01[20:13] <Seira> "Go for it," Seira tells the man, before Donald speaks. "Do tell us if it's something other than money, yes."
[20:14] <Kotono> "I would greatly appreciate your kindness, sir!" he says to Donald, keeping his eyes down. "Winter is so very hard."
06[20:14] * Seira seems disappointed, but lets Donald handle it, now.
[20:16] <Kotono> Donald reaches into his pouch and takes out two gold coins. He flips them to the man's one good arm. "I suppose it's too cold to go hungry," he murmurs.
06[20:16] * Demedais waits politely on the Colonel at this point, wondering what the issue is- ah, money. Understandable in this climate, but he waits on Donald, not having brought any coin with him. Regrettable at this point, but.
[20:16] <Alicia> roll 1d20+4
06[20:16] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+4 and gets 19."12 [1d20=15]
[20:16] <Kotono> The coins are caught, squirreled away. "Thank you. It's for clothes.." he admits, "Many of the inns are giving away food now..." he murmurs.
01[20:16] <Seira> roll 1d10+10
06[20:16] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d10+10 and gets 15."12 [1d10=5]
[20:19] <Kotono> "Good." Donald turns away, "Good luck, but we must be going. We hav business deeper on."
01[20:19] <Seira> "Is there a temple to Waukeen, here?" Seira asks Alicia.
[20:19] <Alicia> "Perhaps if you were to visit the House of Ilmater, good sir?" Alicia suggests, her tone kind but with a faint hint of disapproval. "They would certainly ensure that you were warm enough to get through the Winter."
06[20:20] * Alicia then shakes her head to Seira.
01[20:20] <Seira> "I'll see about that," Seira muses. "Something to consider. Well, shall we?"
[20:20] <Kotono> "Thank you," he bows again, scurrying off. A few people watch this, townspeople shaking their heads.
[20:20] <Kotono> Antenora looks at him distantly, not commenting.
[20:21] <Kotono> A half hour's trek leads you to your destination. The safehouse in question is a large, pleasant inn. The door is closed but a sign says that 'all are welcome.'. Light comes from the windows of the building, everything about it fresh, new, vibrant. It is four stories and built of plain white painted stone.
06[20:21] * Alicia starts walking. "Your gold would be better served going to those who actively help the destitute, Donald," she chides the younger man. "You don't know what he's going to spend that on."
[20:22] <Kotono> OOC: Strike my line.
06[20:22] * Demedais refrains from commenting overly much, though he nods slightly to Alicia.
[20:23] <Kotono> "Eh." Donald shrugs as she huddles up, shivering. He mulls on this until you reach the inn in question, "It's not right to send someone away empty, either. I can always get more gold without a problem and he can't."
[20:24] <Alicia> "He got that easily enough, didn't he?" Alicia reasons as she opens the door and steps inside the Inn. "This is the place, by the way."
06[20:24] * Seira follows inside curiously, not getting into this discussion.
[20:26] <Kotono> "So?" Donald shrugs again. "Mercy's important, even if it's a waste on first glance. I'll also sleep well tonight and not wonder if that poor man will freeze to death on the streets." Inside the inn is bright - it is well lit and pleasantly warm. In front of you is a wide area, a bar and restaurant. The people here range from young to ancient, rich to poor. But all of them seem to have a light to them, an impossible glint to their eye. A few
[20:28] <Kotono> A few well kept servants distribute food and drink, while a slender looking young man watches it all. He has whispy brown hair, wearing simple white wrappings. As the party enters, he rises and approaches them. "Friends," he smiles, clasping the first person to enter's shoulder, in this case Alicia's. "Welcome! Come, come inside. You must be chilled from your travel here."
06[20:28] * Seira eyes the man's clothing dubiously. "I think you're the one who would be cold in that," she mentions.
[20:29] <Alicia> "We didn't have to walk that far," Alicia smiles faintly. "My name is Alicia Reynes, I'm looking for my friend Latha. Is she here?" she asks, unsure whether everyone here is 'in' so to speak.
06[20:29] * Demedais grins a bit at this. "It is cold out, yes; but... bah, Seira." He gives a slight grin to Seira, before turning back to Alicia.
[20:30] <Kotono> "I know who you are," he says, a winkle in his eye as he leads you out of the room, to the rear. Here is anothe rsitting room, more subdued and quiet. Waiters come through with food from the kitchens behind. "I needen't worry about that." Once you're in, his apperance changes. HIs body is human, but his head is that of a canine. There is a fierceness in his eyes, fierceness and joy. "You are the heroes of Balmuria. We welcome all of you."
06[20:31] * Seira barely stops herself from exclaiming 'Puppy!', but it's a close call.
[20:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15
06[20:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 and gets 23."12 [1d20=8]
[20:32] <Kotono> "Ah...!" Donald murmurs, a rather bit surprised.
06[20:32] * Demedais blinks at this. "Hu-uh. Ah, thank you, sir..."
06[20:32] * Alicia was forewarned about the presence of Hound Archons, even if she's never seen one, so doesn't react visibly. "Yes, we were unfortunately delayed by troubles with our neighbours. But we're here now, and ready to fight."
[20:32] <Kotono> "Archon," Antenora politely nod to him, looking him over very, very long.
01[20:33] <Seira> "It was best to stop that maniac sooner, rather than later, all things considered," Seira adds to that.
[20:33] <Alicia> "Definitely," Alicia agrees. "It was no small matter, in the end."
[20:34] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7
06[20:34] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+7 and gets 10."12 [1d20=3]
[20:34] <Kotono> "We'll see to your transit to our forward base in the desert in the morn," he says, "Latha is currently ensuring that the immediate path is not troubled or beset by oppositions. Until then, we ask that you rest and recover.""
01[20:34] <Seira> "This is a safe house of sorts, right?" Seira asks the archon. "Which purpose does it serve so far from the front lines, if I might ask?"
[20:35] <Kotono> He goes to sit, waving for any to join him. "While we seek to contain them, it's impossible to prevent all the devils from slipping through. A few have made a base of operations within Arad, and we established this to oppose them."
06[20:36] * Seira nods thoughtfully. "Should we take that out before heading into the desert?"
06[20:37] * Alicia obligingly sits down. "I suppose if some were able to reach Balmuria, then this wouldn't be beyond them. We're all quite fresh, so if they can be found here we're ready and willing to remove them."
06[20:37] * Demedais looks to Seira, then to Alicia, then to the archon. "I think us four are decently rested. Of course, eliminating said safehouse without a ruckus may be a different issue."
01[20:38] <Seira> "Not if we obscure the immediate grounds with fog, I suppose...."
[20:38] <Kotono> The Hound Archon shakes his head. "We are aware of their position and vice versa. However, both sides are too entangled in the mortal p opulace to make a direct assault favorable. We know that the one of the three devils here is a gelugon in mortal guise. While Latha and myself could oppose it by itself...we would not be able to handle the tow otehrs and what they would do to the innocent humans about."
[20:38] <Kotono> "They're paralysed, too, as they seem to be representing much the same situation. IN essense, we are deadlocked."
01[20:39] <Seira> "Well. Except the entire city of humans are their hostages if they begin losing, which they will if we attack their desert base and the gate itself."
[20:40] <Kotono> A soft growl escapes the archon's throat. "Do you think the six of you could triumph over them and ensure that no harm befalls the innocents around them?"
[20:41] <Kotono> *5 of you.
[20:41] <Alicia> "Leaving them alone here does seem very dangerous," Alicia agrees. "But the Gelugon, at least, would be more than capable of decimating any bystanders nearby during the battle - What are the other two devils?"
01[20:41] <Seira> "If you neutralize the gelugon, yes," Seira tells him. "We can even spare the manpower to clear out the humans from the area."
[20:42] <Kotono> "A bone devil with the power of smiting and a third we are not sure of," he answers.
01[20:43] <Seira> "I can deal with the bone devil," Seira states. "Perhaps along with Donald? If you three gang up on the last devil, it should be enough."
[20:43] <Demedais> "Smiting will do little good against me unless he smites law, which would be exceptionally dumb for a devil." Demedais notes.
[20:44] <Alicia> "Defeating the devils is not the issue," Alicia shakes her head, "It's doing so without risking anyone else. Where are they located?"
01[20:45] <Seira> "I didn't mean defeating it in a prolongued battle, but overwhelming it swiftly," Seira amends.
[20:45] <Kotono> "They have their own location - it is an inn as well. There is a constant flow of people in and out - they offer good prices and give away food to the poor. It keeps them awash in innocents," The archon's voice rumbles very low, growling by the end. "They use a good act to ensure that they are difficult for us to assault."
[20:46] <Alicia> "It only needs a few seconds to unleash a wide blast of cold that would decimate everyone inside the inn," Alicia points out to Seira. "It would likely do so even if fully focused on us, and the bystanders would be a mere afterthought."
[20:47] <Demedais> "Plus, Latha is not here... mmm. For now, our hands may be tied." Demedais closes his eyes, lost a bit in thought.
01[20:48] <Seira> "Have you tried using mundane means to turn people away from the inn?"
[20:48] <Kotono> Antenora is quiet as she listens, "Yes, they wouldn't hesitate to punish us for attacking," she admits. "Could we find a way to extract them from that inn?"
[20:48] <Demedais> "Do the-y... heh. Antenora spoke my mind. Can they be lured or drawn out?"
[20:50] <Kotono> "We give away food and spread rumors, b ut there are enough poor in this town to keep them awash in people," The Hound Archon yips slightly at the last. "We would need some manner of bait to do so."
[20:52] <Alicia> "Or perhaps something to more strongly convince their inn's patrons to leave?" Alicia ponders thoughtfully.
06[20:53] * Demedais looks to Donald's hammer for a long moment, before shaking his head. "To convince them to leave would be ideal... but how to manage that effectively?"
[20:55] <Alicia> "Hmm... it's such a simple cantrip, but it has so many uses," Alicia chuckles softly. "I could use a spell to create an offensive odour that could convince all but the most nose-clogged customers to depart?"
[20:56] <Kotono> "A devil wouldn't leave a safe base without something worth the risk-Hm?" Antenora looks to Alicia. "If you can also make sure they don't realize it's a spell, certainly."
[20:57] <Alicia> "Unless there's any mages frequenting the inn it's unlikely anyone would notice," Alicia shakes her head.
[20:58] <Kotono> The archon listens, "...do you think you can do it safely," he asks at last. "If you can use this to eradicate the devils..."
01[20:59] <Seira> "How do you intend to deal with the gelugon, if bystanders left the immediate area?" Seira asks in turn.
[21:00] <Demedais> "We would want to quickly contain the gelugon and the third devil, yes. The bone devil... any of us four could handle him, I think, though two people to eliminate him would be best." Demedais muses.
06[21:00] * Alicia sighs softly. "No plan is without risk, but leaving the devils to act freely carries the greatest risk of all. Even if they aren't violent at the moment, how many souls are they corrupting and tempting into ruin as they operate, here?"
[21:00] <Alicia> At Seira's question, "The best resort would be for a heavy hitter - probably Antenora - to avoid fighting directly and watch carefully for the moment it seems to be gathering its power for a cone of cold, then she could charge in to strike, likely ruining its concentration."
06[21:04] * Seira nods. "I'll take on the one doing all the crazy smiting. Demedais could try to take on the gelugon with his own smites, while you'll take a stab at mystery devil three? Donald would assist wherever his unique skills would be best used, and Antenora's role is pretty good as is."
[21:05] <Alicia> "It's best to focus on killing the gelugon quickly - I'll help Demedais with it, first," Alicia amends. "Unless the third devil proves to be a greater threat."
[21:06] <Kotono> "You have a good plan," The Hound Archon says, "The Fiery Claw is on the northern side of Arad."
01[21:06] <Seira> "Our archon friend can step in for you with him, then," Seira agrees, before saying, "Speaking of that, what was your name?"
[21:06] <Kotono> "Olidomar," he inclines his head.
01[21:07] <Seira> "Seira! Now we know each other's name and have become friends!"
[21:08] <Alicia> "Well met, Olidomar," Alicia nods back. "Is everyone clear on what's required?" she asks the others.
[21:10] <Demedais> "Yes." Demedais nods once to this. "Quick elimination of all threats. Optimally, none escape to give away our presence here."
[21:10] <Kotono> "I'm to setup to charge and disrupt the gelugon," Antenora replies, then Donald says, "I wait and then hit whomever I can with this as hard as I can," he says, grasping the handle of his hammer.
06[21:11] * Demedais nods in approval."
06[21:11] * Seira nods once more. "Support me if the other two are well-handled, or smash the third devil. Try to stay out of the way of the gelugon unless things go badly with it."
06[21:12] * Alicia takes a deep breath. "Okay, sounds like we're all good. Try to keep your stomachs down, since I'm going to be making the place stink like nothing on earth. Don't want anyone thinking its worth sticking around in there before we act."
06[21:13] * Demedais nods once. "Tell me before you do it, but certainly."
[21:13] <Alicia> "It might be a good idea to make some effort at disguise, too, so we don't look too obvious," she then adds, casting prestidigitation and proceeding to make with a few cosmetic changes much like she did on their combat patrol to capture Pallan.
01[21:14] <Seira> "Unless they have an erinyes around, I shouldn't be spotted easily," Seira assures the others, resolving to cast invisibility upon herself once she's a minute's travel away from the inn, preferably in some darker alley.
[21:15] <Alicia> OOC: cloak becomes brown, hair becomes dull red, armour becomes a bit rusty, and hell striker gets wrapped up in canvas.
[21:15] <Kotono> OOC - Okay.
[21:15] <Kotono> Antenora murmurs at that, "It's possible they do. TGhey're often parts of bands for just that reason."
06[21:15] * Seira connects herself with Message to the others, to allow her to coordinate the attack despite any hopeful cover of invisibility.
[21:16] <Alicia> "Could be our number three," Alicia nods, getting up once she's made her preparations. "Lets go."
06[21:17] * Demedais nods slightly. OOC: What backup do we have? Is Archon-boy coming? I presume not, but it isn't clear.
01[21:18] <Seira> OOC: I presume yes! If only to guide us
[21:18] <Kotono> OOC: He'll guide you there. Okay, ready to mov eon?
[21:19] <Alicia> OOC: lets do this
[21:21] <Kotono> You are lead in the afternoon to the inn in question. You go through nicer streets, less beggars for most of it. It's located in a plesant cul-de-sac, a three story white building with open doors. People linger around the doors, windows bright. "That's it," Your disguised archon friend murmurs.
[21:23] <Demedais> "Do we know what disguise the devils take?" Demedais whispers, looking it over.
01[21:23] <Seira> "This is where I do my best to blend with the shadows," Seira muses, finding a decently quiet place to cast blur and the invisibility altogether upon herself.
[21:23] <Alicia> "Okay, best not to draw too much attention, so most of you should wait out here till I give the word," Alicia suggests as she casts Shield. "I should be able to see them past any disguise, anyway." Indeed, she passes her eyes over the building, scanning for evil.
06[21:24] * Seira follows Alicia's lead in the meanwhile, casting her own shield in preparation.
[21:24] <Kotono> "The gelugon looks like a fat but well dressed nobleman," The archon whispers. Alicia finds that her vision can't penetrate the walls.
[21:25] <Demedais> "And the other two?"
[21:26] <Alicia> "Or not... they've got some sort of anti-divination field up," Alicia frowns. "This could complicate things. I'll need accurate descriptions of their disguises, in that case."
[21:27] <Kotono> People com eand go from the front door, a slow but steady stream of humans. "The gelugon is a fat nobleman - he looks very rich. He likes rings and those sorts of displays. The bone devil appears as an emancipated man with sharp, disturbing eyes."
[21:29] <Alicia> "And we don't know about the third," Alicia nods. "Okay, then, no sense stalling further. Hopefully we'll see results in a moment." At that, she heads inside!
06[21:30] * Demedais waits, vigilant?
01[21:30] <Seira> Hopefully, they will. If not, she'd wasted a few spells," Seira muses. Such as the one of Mirror Image she casts now.
06[21:33] * Demedais hesitates a second, before throwing the heavy cloak over his shield and following Alicia in, hoping they don't notice it. The prestidigation making him look more rough might help, too.
[21:35] <Kotono> Antenora waits, head bowed and not following. Donald is at the ready, a hand back and on the grip of the Hammer. At this, Alicia and Demedais head inside. The inside is a large room, much like the other inn. It's warm and full of people - dark people, the sort of people, that rich or poor, that make your skin crawl. People with eyes like empty wells,...yet amid them are others, curious and open, or beggars devouring food with a passion. A fat
[21:35] <Kotono> A fat man in rich clothes watches from near the fireplace, hands placed over his considerable gut.
06[21:36] * Alicia keeps her head down, not wanting to draw attention to herself as she moves to the far end of the inn's common room, towards the opposite wall from where the fat man lurks.
[21:37] <Kotono> As the two enter, "Hello there!" A decently dressed man with soft blonde hair approaches. He's tall and lithe, a smile on his face. HIs eyes burn with appeal and charisma, his features flawless. "Travellers?"
06[21:38] * Alicia gives a noncommital grunt in response, positively radiating a perverse anti-charisma as she keeps her head down and slouches towards her goal.
06[21:38] * Demedais heads toward the bar, but stops, looking to the young man. "Yes." Demedais rumbles, with a stiff nod as he looks the person over.
[21:39] <Kotono> The man smiles at this, looking quite nonthreatening. Until you look in his eyes - it's like you could get lost in there. "I'll have some food brought, on us. You look like you could use a hot meal after your journey."
06[21:41] * Demedais blinks at this. "Kind of you."
[21:41] <Kotono> He offers his hand out to Demedais. "Do enjoy. You look like warriors. Do you come from out of the area?"
[21:43] <Demedais> "Born in Malmuth." Demedais nods once. "Traveled much since. You?"
[21:43] <Kotono> "Born and raised here," He smiles a moment, eyes on the two of them as he steps back. "Enjoy then, it'll be along."
06[21:44] * Alicia finds a seat in the corner and uses her prestidigitation spell to begin generating a foul odour. It's not too obvious right now, simply a vaguely unpleasant whiff that brings to mind an unsanitised toilet. She lets it spread and permeate from her location for a minute or so before she starts to turn things up a few notches.
06[21:45] * Demedais looks to Alicia. "I apologize. Some days, she does not seem to enjoy talking. Some days, she does. It is hard to tell with her."
06[21:46] * Alicia grunts and gives Demedais a rather nasty look.
[21:46] <Kotono> "I see..." The man wrinkles his nose in displeasure, "...aaah, we also have baths," he waves his hand, stepping further away. "I think you could use them."
06[21:47] * Alicia frowns and sniffs, taking a moment to look around as if she's just detected the nasty smell and is wondering where it's coming from. It also starts to get a bit worse.
06[21:48] * Demedais looks once to Alicia, before looking back to the man. "I think I will wait at the bar. Better there." With that, he walks over near the bar and sits, somewhat close to the fat man.
[21:48] <Kotono> "Ugh!" A beggar who's eating calls, "Damn, who let Stinky Kemet in?" he grouses, while aricher looking man covers his nose.
[21:50] <Kotono> The man steps away again, "Ugh!" He coughs at it, as the fat man gets up, waving his hand near his face. The normal people around cluster, some going out, some gagging.
[21:50] <Kotono> "This smell...!" is overheard, as one man turns green and runs outside. SEveral follow, hurrying away.
[21:50] <Alicia> Alicia lets the smell get drastically worse as she stands up, bringing things up to as much intensity as the spell allows as the air permeates with the rank stench of burning fecal matter. "Eh, where you wanderin' off to?" she grunts at Demedais as she follows to the other side of the room, spreading her malodourous scent around like a plague maiden.
[21:51] <Kotono> "That woman..." The fat man gags are more flee, eyeing Alicia. "Did you soil yourself, you wench?" His expression darkens, are more people hustle out. Most are gone now, only a few scattered and looking nauseated.
06[21:51] * Demedais turns to Alicia, nose heavily twisted and covered. "Bath. Find one. Now."
[21:52] <Kotono> The fair man waves his hands, staggering to a door in the back. He opens it, "Someone bring in something that doesn't smell like shit!" he calls.
[21:52] <Kotono> *as more flee
[21:52] <Alicia> "S'not me!" Alicia sniffs haughtily as foul air continues to radiate off of her. "It's this rank establishment!" She briefly glances around to see if the remaining die-hards are showing any sign of departing.
[21:53] <Kotono> All but two remain - a beggar eating and holding his nose with one hand, another in a corner and vomiting.
[21:53] <Kotono> "I can smell it coming off ofyou," The fat man glowers. "Get out."
[21:54] <Demedais> "It follows you." Demedais grunts out, turning away - and mouthing into his palm as he covers his face, "Get ready; all but two have left."
01[21:55] <Seira> "Any chance you could come and get those two once we all go in, Olidomar?" Seira whispers.
[21:56] <Kotono> "I can," he murmurs back to Seira, as the rest of the group waits for the word.
06[21:56] * Seira casts Thunderlance, as the assault seems pretty close in timing.
[21:57] <Alicia> "I don't think so," Alicia drops the act, and the smell. Though what she's produced so far will still linger for a long time. "I'm not leaving till I've killed every worthless devil in this hive." At that, she draws her sword, a gout of flames from Hell Striker dramatically blasting away its covering!
01[21:57] <Seira> That's all the sign Seira needs to bolt for the inn, telling Donald and Antenora to follow!
[21:58] <Demedais> "Ars Artifax..." Demedais murmurs, calling his armor to him as he jumps at the theoretical gelugon!
[21:59] <Kotono> "....oh, so you finally worked up the guts to attack?" The fat man sneers, as his visage shatters! Th eclothes he wears rips apart, the jewelry falling down around him in a rain! A horrifying ice devil stands in his stead, a sharp spear in hand. "Oh, I'll enjoy raking your soul across the endless pits, you fool!" Meanwhile, the fair man shimmers! IN his place is an Erinyes, his smile dark as he holds a heavy pick in hand. "Give me the command
[21:59] <Kotono>  hand. "Give me the command, sir. I'll drench there brains all over!" OOC  Let's do initiative here. You guys outside will be assumed to start at the entrance first round.
[21:59] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5
06[21:59] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 and gets 12."12 [1d20=7]
[21:59] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
06[21:59] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 and gets 14."12 [1d20=13]
01[22:00] <Seira> roll 1d20+11 Nerveskitter
06[22:00] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+11 Nerveskitter and gets 29."12 [1d20=18]
[22:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 Donald
06[22:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 Donald and gets 25."12 [1d20=19]
[22:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 Antenora
06[22:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 Antenora and gets 19."12 [1d20=14]
[22:01] <Demedais> "Eh? We just got here, but having the place warded against her sight, that's bad mojo, yanno?" Demedais says in movement.
[22:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4 archon
06[22:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 archon and gets 21."12 [1d20=17]
[22:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 Ice devil
06[22:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 Ice devil and gets 16."12 [1d20=11]
[22:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 Erinyes
06[22:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 Erinyes and gets 21."12 [1d20=16]
[22:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9 ????
06[22:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 ???? and gets 14."12 [1d20=5]
03[22:02] * Kotono changes topic to 'Seira>Donald>Archon=Erinyes>Antenora>Ice Devil>????=Demedais>Alicia'
01[22:04] <Seira> roll 1d4+3 MI
06[22:04] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d4+3 MI and gets 4."12 [1d4=1]
01[22:07] <Seira> Arriving at the doorway to the establishment, Seira takes position by it. The lance of light she holds onto with both hands continues, however, striking once at the prettiest of the devils!
01[22:07] <Seira> roll 1d20+16
06[22:07] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+16 and gets 23."12 [1d20=7]
01[22:07] <Seira> roll 3d6+15 force
06[22:07] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 3d6+15 force and gets 26."12 [3d6=2, 6, 3]
01[22:08] <Seira> roll 4d6 SA
06[22:08] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 4d6 SA and gets 14."12 [4d6=3, 2, 3, 6]
[22:09] <Kotono> The Erinyes is caught off guard, slammed into via Thunderlance! He staggers backwards, gored signifigantly by the valiant charge! Meanwhile, Donald seconds this act, charging in! He goes right for the ice devil, the hammer of the shard withdrawn! You can see the ice devil's eyes go wide as Donald swings at him!
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
06[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 36."12 [1d20=19]
[22:10] <Kotono> roll 1d8+9
06[22:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+9 and gets 10."12 [1d8=1]
[22:10] <Kotono> roll 1d4+1
06[22:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+1 and gets 2."12 [1d4=1]
[22:11] <Kotono> The Hammer of the Shard slams into the arm of the devil! It's only a grazing blow, but it's entire form wavers chaotically! "Aaajlkgjoewimoijmoimcew!" A jumble of mashed up words come from the lips of the ice devil! Meanwhile, the Arcon races in, grapping the thunderstruck beggar and starting to drag him out!( More)
[22:12] <Kotono> The Erinyes is rocked back, but it takes it's heavy pick and charges Seira, gritting it's teeth! Its' eyes burn with battle lust, even as it's side has been torn open by Seira! OOC - You can AoO as you have reach, Seira.
06[22:13] * Seira quite intends to have the devil fight for every inch of the way, and makes sure he knows it, too!
01[22:13] <Seira> roll 1d20+16
06[22:13] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+16 and gets 25."12 [1d20=9]
[22:13] <Kotono> "Be gone from this place, devil!" Donald snarls as he rebalances the hammer. "This world is free of your iron controls!"
01[22:13] <Seira> roll 3d6+15+4d6
06[22:13] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 3d6+15+4d6 and gets 39."12 [3d6=3, 3, 3][4d6=4, 4, 5, 2]
[22:13] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[22:16] <Kotono> Despite being slammed into by the thunderlance, the Erinyes swings at Seira!
[22:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
06[22:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 34."12 [1d20=17]
01[22:16] <Seira> OOC: That sadly hits
[22:17] <Kotono> roll 1d6+8
06[22:17] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6+8 and gets 14."12 [1d6=6]
[22:20] <Kotono> Seira gets a picking to her shoulder, but her previous enchantments soak up the damage like a sponge! Meanwhile, Antenora charges in, viewing the scene a moment before approaching the ice devil, waiting and holding! The ice devil concentrates a moment...OOC - It auto passes it's concentration check to not provoke an AoO on using a spell like ability, however, Antenora has a held action now.
[22:20] <Kotono> As a pentagram begins to appear beneath the ice devil, Antenora lashes out!
[22:20] <Alicia> OOC: don't forget to smite!
[22:21] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11 (-8 PA, smite, HF)
06[22:21] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 (-8 PA, smite, HF) and gets 21."12 [1d20=10]
[22:21] <Kotono> roll 1d8+35+1d6
06[22:21] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+35+1d6 and gets 43."12 [1d8=3][1d6=5]
[22:22] <Kotono> roll 1d20+23 it needs a 20
06[22:22] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+23 it needs a 20 and gets 36."12 [1d20=13]
03[22:23] * Kotono changes topic to 'Seira>Donald>Archon=Erinyes>Antenora=Ice Devil>????=Demedais>Alicia'
[22:24] <Kotono> As it begins to chant, Antenora lets loose a scream of fury that rocks the air! "Return to the foul land that spawned you!" she curses, as she impales the ice devil and rudely rips out her spear! Meanwhile, the door to the back opens! A bone devil emerges, a black cloud around it's stinger tail!  It looks about before charging Alicia, it's tail darting out!
03[22:24] * Kotono changes topic to 'Seira>Donald>Archon=Erinyes>Antenora=Ice Devil>Bone Devil=Demedais>Alicia'
06[22:25] * Demedais nods gratefully to Alicia and Seira as he steps in, blade whirling to dispatch the ice devil before it can react any further to the events!
[22:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
06[22:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 30."12 [1d20=13]
[22:25] <Kotono> OOC - AC?
[22:25] <Alicia> OOC: 27
[22:25] <Kotono> roll 3d4+12 and a fort save, Alicia.
06[22:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 3d4+12 and a fort save, Alicia. and gets 19."12 [3d4=4, 1, 2]
[22:25] <Alicia> roll 1d20+19
06[22:25] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+19 and gets 23."12 [1d20=4]
[22:26] <Kotono> The barbed tail sinks into Alicia's stomach, but the wound isn't that deep! She feels flushed but stays upright! OOC - Deme, feel free to rol lyour attacks and all that.
[22:27] <Kotono> The vomiting man looks up, what little color is left in his face falling away. He falls on his butt, watching in shock.
[22:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 (+6 smite +2 helm +1 Haste -9 PA) let's rock, devilbitch
06[22:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 (+6 smite +2 helm +1 Haste -9 PA) let's rock, devilbitch  and gets 22."12 [1d20=6]
[22:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 (+6 smite +2 helm +1 Haste -9 PA) let's rock, devilbitch
06[22:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 (+6 smite +2 helm +1 Haste -9 PA) let's rock, devilbitch  and gets 32."12 [1d20=16]
[22:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3 (+1 Haste -9 PA) let's rock, devilbitch
06[22:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 (+1 Haste -9 PA) let's rock, devilbitch  and gets 11."12 [1d20=8]
[22:28] <Kotono> OOC - Two hits.
[22:29] <Demedais> roll 4d6+36+16+16+4d6
06[22:29] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 4d6+36+16+16+4d6 and gets 93."12 [4d6=2, 3, 2, 3][4d6=3, 6, 5, 1]
[22:31] <Kotono> Demedais charges in, slicing up the ice devil! One slash is into it's ribs, the second nearly ripping it's head off! Despite a neck splurting blue, frosty blood all over, it somehow lives! "How...so fast..." it hacks and wheezes, burbling! OOC - Alicia.
06[22:32] * Alicia turns to her own dance partner, channeling arcane and holy fury into her attacks as she slashes harshly into his bony form!
[22:32] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18 fire
06[22:32] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 fire and gets 21."12 [1d20=3]
[22:32] <Alicia> roll 1d20+17 holy (3rd level arcane strike, btw)
06[22:32] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+17 holy (3rd level arcane strike, btw) and gets 31."12 [1d20=14]
[22:32] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 fire smite
06[22:32] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 fire smite and gets 21."12 [1d20=5]
[22:32] <Alicia> roll 1d20+12 holy
06[22:32] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+12 holy and gets 23."12 [1d20=11]
[22:32] <Kotono> OOC - Second hits. Wow.
[22:33] <Alicia> roll 1d8+7+2d6+3d4
06[22:33] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d8+7+2d6+3d4 and gets 23."12 [1d8=1][2d6=1, 5][3d4=4, 2, 3]
[22:33] <Kotono> OOC - Last hits as well.
[22:33] <Alicia> roll 1d8+7+2d6+3d4
06[22:33] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d8+7+2d6+3d4 and gets 31."12 [1d8=8][2d6=6, 2][3d4=4, 3, 1]
[22:34] <Kotono> Alicia stabs into the bone devil, it's body rattling but intact from the flurry! It hisses in agony, though, "That hammer is...!" he eyes it even as he is torn by Alicia! OOC - SEira.
06[22:34] * Seira retreats the lance to a more manageable length, raising an eyebrow challengingly at the erinyes. "Was that supposed to tickle?" she quips obligingly, even as she channels potent arcane magics into the weapon before showing the devil how it's done! She has a more formiddable enemy to face, anyway, once the erinyes stops wasting her time.
01[22:34] <Seira> roll 1d20+20
06[22:34] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+20 and gets 36."12 [1d20=16]
01[22:35] <Seira> roll 1d20+15
[22:35] <Kotono> OOC -HIt. OW.
06[22:35] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+15 and gets 22."12 [1d20=7]
01[22:35] <Seira> roll 3d6+15+4d4
06[22:35] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 3d6+15+4d4 and gets 31."12 [3d6=4, 1, 1][4d4=3, 4, 1, 2]
[22:36] <Kotono> The Erinyes is impaled once more, it's body breaking into loose brimstone and fading away! It's pick is dropped behind. Meanwhile, Donald keeps on the ice devil, hammer again seeking him!
[22:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 (-2 PA)
06[22:36] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 (-2 PA) and gets 24."12 [1d20=11]
[22:37] <Kotono> roll 1d8+13
06[22:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+13 and gets 20."12 [1d8=7]
03[22:38] * Kotono changes topic to 'Seira>Donald>Archon>Antenora>Bone Devil=Demedais>Alicia'
[22:38] <Kotono> With another heavy blow, the Hammer of the Shard slams into the head of the ice devil! It lets out a hissing scream, like a squished bug! "GAaaaaaaahhhhh....!!!!" It's body breaks into ice and melts into a foul water, it's jewelery and spear on the floor in it's ruins! Meanwhile, the archon returns and starts dragging the ill man out! (More)
[22:38] <Kotono> Antenora turns away, and in support of Alicia, charges the bone devil flat out! A fury burns in her eyes, unrelenting!
[22:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 (+2 charge, +2 FS, -4 PA)
06[22:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 (+2 charge, +2 FS, -4 PA) and gets 24."12 [1d20=7]
[22:39] <Kotono> roll 2d8+1d6+32
06[22:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8+1d6+32 and gets 48."12 [2d8=7, 3][1d6=6]
[22:40] <Demedais> "Excellent." Demedais nods once to Donald, before turning his attention to the newcomer bone devil.
[22:40] <Kotono> With a scream the bone devil shatters and vanishes away, it's tail winking away into nothinness last.
01[22:41] <Seira> "Those things were an eyesore," Seira comments, her images nodding in agreement. And then, she looks around with a magical sight!
06[22:41] * Alicia takes a deep breath and rests a hand over her stomach to heal her wound. "Well. That was bracing," she declares, proceeding to cast dispel magic to try and remove the nondetetection field.
[22:41] <Alicia> OOC: 15hp lay on hands
[22:41] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 dispel
06[22:41] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 dispel and gets 24."12 [1d20=14]
[22:41] <Kotono> The inn winkles a moment, before there is a soft, shattering/shimmering.
06[22:42] * Demedais grunts, looking around in surprise.
[22:42] <Kotono> "...that was easy?" Donald looks about as he grins, putting his hammer away. "It was more like beating up goblins."
[22:43] <Alicia> "We had the advantage of surprise. We won't always get that," Alicia reminds Donald as she scans the building for evil now that her sight is hopefully unbarred.
[22:43] <Kotono> Antenora breathes out very long, before withdrawing her spear and bowing her head.
[22:43] <Demedais> "The trap was laid well, yes. You four reacting quickly to us helped greatly." Demedais nods gratefully.
[22:43] <Alicia> "Seems that was all of them," Alicia pronounces, detecting no further evil. "We're done, here."
06[22:43] * Seira approaches Alicia slowly. "You okay?" she asks her.
06[22:44] * Alicia nods to Seira and pats her stomach. "Nothing I couldn't heal," she assures her. "Come on, lets go," she starts heading for the door.
01[22:45] <Seira> "By the way, the pick and a jewel seem magical. Are they something we should dispose of, or just shiny souveniers?"
[22:45] <Alicia> "Not evil, so might as well grab them," Alicia nods.
06[22:45] * Seira does so!
06[22:46] * Seira grabs the spear while she's at it, too, as one more present for the guys back home.
[22:46] <Demedais> "Better to take them with. If they're evi- well, that point's moot, but might as well anyway. So, uh. That's that, then."
01[22:47] <Seira> "They gave up all claims to their shiny things by invading our world," Seira agrees, nodding firmly.
[22:47] <Demedais> "Olidomar, how far is it from here to... our destination, tomorrow?" Demedais ventures.
[22:48] <Kotono> "It's two days journey," Olidomar says as he enters once more. "We may wish to hurry, unless you wish to explain yourselves to the city guard."
[22:48] <Kotono> "I'll stay to talk with them, as they should be reasonably informed," he goes on.
[22:49] <Demedais> "...very well; so long as they know what happened, I leave it to your hands." Demedais nods, following the group out.
[22:49] <Alicia> "No sense risking getting entangled with local issues," Alicia nods as she wastes no time in departing. "We've got bigger matters to deal with."