D-T 001

[Corwin]

[17:11] <Anastasia> ===
[17:14] <Anastasia> The streets are quiet as Alicia returns home. While some still celebrate late this night, most are far too drunken to care. Jessica's not too far off this, wobbling around at a good pace and hovering in front of Alicia and Antenora, smiling. "'twasn't so bad after all," she happily says.
03[17:18] * Anastasia sets mode: +o Alicia
[17:18] <Alicia> While Alicia herself eschews alcohol, she really doesn't have much problem with other peoples vices so long as they're harmless, and so doesn't mind Jessica's current state. The fact that she had a good time is all that matters. "Good. No one gave you any trouble after that rude man, then?" she asks as they stroll the short distance back to their house.
[17:19] <Anastasia> roll 1d20+17
03[17:20] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@cpe-70-112-23-198.austin.res.rr.com) has joined #terrorofdunes
03[17:20] * Anastasia sets mode: +v Hatbot
[17:20] <Anastasia> roll 1d20+17
06[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d20+17 and gets 33."12 [1d20=16]
[17:20] <Anastasia> Antenora watches absently, her gaze fluttering about. Meanwhile, Jessica grins ear to ear. "No, everyone was sooooo much nicer," she says, as, 'Alicia.' Antenora's voice in your mind, as you approach your home.
[17:28] <Alicia> 'Yes?' Alicia replies in the same mental manner with a glance at ther erinyes. "That's good. Hopefully people will be more inclined to give you a chance after tonight," she goes on to her sister.
[17:29] <Anastasia> 'Visitor.' Antenora meaningfully looks to the shadows near Alicia's door, though her tone is neutral. Meanwhile, "I hope so! It's not fair that they're holding Beth against me! I'm J-Jessica!" she points at herself.
[17:32] <Alicia> "I know, sister," Alicia soothes, surreptitiously glancing in the direction Antenora glanced, her gaze searching out any evil that may be there. "But I think things'll be easier, now, if you made some friends tonight and everyone saw you weren't causing any trouble."
[17:35] <Anastasia> There's no evil, but Alicia does notice a slight white glow. A little orb of white, doing a surprisingly competent job of hiding in the shadows.  Until you were looking for something, it blended in seamlessly. "Hope so! I'll never find anyone nice if I'm getting called that!" Jessica puts her hands on her hips and scowls. "Murderer! Ugh."
[17:38] <Alicia> "Give it time," Alicia replies absently as she unlocks the door before casting Light on her housekey. It'll be dark inside, anyway, but this will also hopefully shed more light on the strange glow nearby. "Soon Beth will be forgotten, and people will only see Jessica when they look at you."
[17:40] <Anastasia> As lights pills, you get a better look at it. It's a tiny little orb and it now sheds light like a torch. It floats up a little bit, "Alicia Reynes?" it asks to her.
[17:40] <Anastasia> Jessica nod sto Alicia, "Time, time, time..." she ponders, before turning, "Aaaaah!" She starts at the little image.
[17:41] <Alicia> It talks! "Yes...?" Alicia peers at the orb curiously. Some sort of magic message thing?
[17:42] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9
06[17:42] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+9 and gets 27."12 [1d20=18]
[17:44] <Anastasia> "I have a message from Arad," it says. "I bear information as well."
[17:44] <Alicia> "It's a Lantern Archon, Jessica," Alicia tells her sister. "Ah, come on inside and we'll hear your message?" she offers, gesturing to the door. "What's your name?"
[17:48] <Anastasia> The Lantern follows along, Antenora eyeing it with a bemused look. Jessica wobbles alongside it as they go inside, "It's kind of pretty," she says, crossing her arms and nodding.
[17:49] <Anastasia> "Denga," The archon answers.
[17:50] <Alicia> "Hello, Denga," Alicia closes and locks the door once everyone's inside and leads the archon to the sitting room where she sets aside all of her and Antenora's gear that she'd been carrying home and then sits down. "We should be able to reach Arad the day after tomorrow via teleportation. How go things on your end?"
[17:54] <Anastasia> Antenora idly begins to put on her armor as she watches. "My masters wish to give you information. The battles are contested day in and out. We have accrued good knowledge on what the devils are fielding."
[17:54] <Anastasia> Jessica goes to a couch near Denga, watching as it floats around. She occasionally runs a hand close to it's 'back', seeming to be fascinated by it.
[17:55] <Alicia> "So it remains a stalemate?" Alicia asks. Certainly better than she'd feared. "What sort of numbers are there, and what's the highest ranking devil present?"
[17:58] <Anastasia> "We have seen squads lead by Gelugon, advanced Orthons and advanced Erinyes. Do you know of these at all?"
[17:58] <Anastasia> Antenora listens, scowling at the last creature. "Orthons are disgusting creatures," Antenora adds in.
[17:58] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9 orthon?
06[17:58] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+9 orthon? and gets 18."12 [1d20=9]
[17:59] <Alicia> "I'm quite familiar with Gelugon and Erinyes," Alicia briefly inclines her head towards Antenora. "But I don't think I've encountered an Orthon, before."
[18:03] <Anastasia> "They're devils of war, legionarres. They have steel plates grafted to their body, causing them immense, unthinkable pain. Because of the constant wounds the plates cause, maggots live within the orthons. Kill or grevious wound one and you'll be covered in them." At this, Antenora's color has gone bad. "They're reasonably capable fighters in their own right. They prefer spears and crossbows."
[18:04] <Alicia> "So, better to inflict the final blow from a distance or from above?" Alicia files that away. "How strong are they, say compared to a Barbazu?" she asks, comparing it with the only other devil she knows of that seems to fill the same particular niche as Antenora described.
[18:05] <Anastasia> "Stronger," The archon adds. "The normal ones are rank and file troopers in these battles, but the advanced ones are either highly trained warriors or even monks."
[18:06] <Anastasia> "Ew..." Jessica makes a nasty face, falling back onto the seat.
[18:07] <Alicia> "Monks?" Alicia repeats with faint incredulity, before she tilts her head at Jessica's slump. "You alright, Jessica?"
[18:08] <Anastasia> "Bad image," She frowns. "MAGGOTS. Ugh."
[18:08] <Anastasia> "The one our forces encountered took on a Planetar handto hand and it was a draw." The archon elaborates. "As for the advanced Erinyes...there is a warlock amid them. She wields both a warlock's balls of burning hate and can channel hellfire into them."
[18:10] <Alicia> "Considering Hell, maggots are pretty minor," Alicia can't help but observe. "Sounds like they'll be a handful, though... but we're looking at advanced types of intermediate fiends as the leaders, then? Plus the Gelugons, since those are greater ranked - anything unique about them that you've seen?"
[18:13] <Anastasia> "The gelugons appear to be normal." The archon reports. "However, the leaders of the attack squads are not the only problem."
[18:13] <Alicia> Alicia's expression twists. It just has to get worse, doesn't it? "Go on?"
[18:14] <Anastasia> "Aratons or Desert Devils are seen in every pack. They are scimitar wielding masters of the sands. A cloud of grit always surrounds them and a few often taken the vanguard of a devilsquad. Further, one or two have been seen that have a more expansive control, causing small, localized sandstorms."
[18:15] <Alicia> "Sounds appropriate for the terrain, anyway," Alicia nods glumly. "How tough are they?"
[18:15] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9 I might know, myself
06[18:15] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+9 I might know, myself and gets 18."12 [1d20=9]
[18:17] <Anastasia> roll 1d20+15 more specialised
06[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d20+15 more specialised and gets 25."12 [1d20=10]
[18:18] <Anastasia> "They're not the strongest, but they're very specialized to the desert. They're even vulnerable to poison and have low magical resistance, but they regenerate and thrive in the wastes."
[18:18] <Anastasia> Antenora says this after thinking a bit.
[18:20] <Alicia> "Just our luck to face them in their element. Should probably prioritise taking them down if the sandstorm makes fighting all the other devils present more difficult," Alicia muses. "You mentioned the leaders of the attack squads, Denga - what about higher up the chain of command? Who's coordinating the invasion overall?"
[18:24] <Anastasia> "We aren't sure yet. We would suspect a more restrained Cornugon or the like as the leader on this side. As to who commands him? A Paeliron or even a Pit Fiend? We haven't confirmed the leadership yet, as neither side has penetrated into the interior of eithers defenses."
06[18:25] * Alicia nods. "Speaking of that, what do we have to work with on our side?"
[18:28] <Anastasia> "Planetar, Astral Deva, Hound Archon, Trumpet Archon, Sword Archon and others. An Astral Deva has volunteered to fight with your group when it arrives, as she owes you a large debt." Denga floats around in the air at that, "Your attack on Stygia is appreciated, as is your friend's effort in freeing me from that mad wizard."
[18:29] <Alicia> "That would be Latha... so you've met Seira and Demedais?" Alicia blinks. "Will you be going to visit them, as well?"
[18:36] <Anastasia> "In time. They're coming as well to the battle?" The archon asks.
[18:37] <Alicia> "Yes, it will be myself, Antenora," she gestures to said erinyes, "Seira, Demedais, and an elven warrior named Donald. He's not quite on the same level as the rest of us, but he's skilled enough, and the only one we can get who can safely wield the Hammer of the Shard."
[18:39] <Anastasia> Denga bobs up and down, almost like it's trying to nod ahead that doesn't exist. It looks extra long at Antenora, fluttering around her head. "Is what Latha said true? How wonderful! I'v never gotten to see one myself, they're so rare."
[18:39] <Alicia> "Have you heard of others, though?" Alicia asks curiously, smiling a bit at the archon's enthusiasm.
[18:41] <Anastasia> Antenora watches evenly, withholding comment. "Rarely. It's sad...I hear that devils and demons kill any of their kind that show any sort of compassion or change at all. The stories are so wonderful when you hear about one of the successful ones, since evil tries so hard but it fails."
06[18:44] * Alicia nods. "It is heartening," she agrees, "Though also somewhat troubling, if one considers how many fiends may have the potential to cast aside their malevolent natures but are never given the chance."
[18:44] <Anastasia> To that Antenora at least agrees. "IT's one of the most deadly accusations to throw against another devil. If you can prove one has done a good act or may be beginning to think that way and the probes confirm it?" Antenora shivers all over. "The torments are a generation of terror beyond the process of becoming a Nupperibo."
[18:45] <Anastasia> "It's rare, I think. Not many angels fall, but the ones that do..." The archon seems to radiate sadness. "But do you want to hear the stories! They're a lot better than thinking about fallen angels."
[18:46] <Alicia> "I'd love to hear them," Alicia smiles, making a mental note to remember to ask Denga what the message was from earlier so she won't forget before the archon leaves.
[18:49] <Anastasia> "Stories..." Jessica yawns, her eyes having slid shut during it. Her voice is faraway, sleepy.
[18:49] <Anastasia> Antenora sits down, "I'd love to hear them, too." Antenora smiles a little, "I suppose they're directly relevant to me."
[18:51] <Alicia> "If you're tired you should go to bed, Jessica," Alicia suggests to her sister.
[18:52] <Anastasia> "I'll recount the story the nice archon told me," The Lantern Archon flutters around in the air. "Ahem...One day, as I travelled in contemplation, I came across a building in the wilderness. In perfect seclution lay a great marble building. Within lay a library, countless books. As I marvelled at the dedication to maintain such a place so far away from others, I was set on by the owner of this library." (More)
[18:54] <Anastasia> "The owner was vast. He was build like a giant, yet had the gentlest, kindest face I had ever seen. This angel was the face of enlightenment, which on seeing stoked the desire to further increase my own understanding. We fell into friendly talk on the nature of good for a long period. I was astounded by his knowledge of the philosophies and restrait, for he greatly spoke out against fury, wrath and malice." (More)
[18:58] <Anastasia> "Every time I made a question, his answer came easily. AT the end of our talk I was so impressed that I asked him where he had gained such insight. With a smile he said, 'The Abyss.' He told me a story then: The story of a summoned demon, a hezrou. It was summoned by one wizard of ten to a magical battelground to aide in his fighting. The ten fought in the foyer of a grand library, millions of books all around. In the end, it was t
[18:58] <Anastasia> In the end, it was the summoner versus another wizard, who held th ekey to the library. Thinking he had won, he ordered me to slay the mage. But...in that, the key was broken." (More)
[19:00] <Anastasia> "The libarary was no mortal place, but a legendary ground of the combined knowledge of ten thousand sages over ten thousand centuries. It existed outside of normal time and space, and when the key was broken? I learned later that a bridge was all that allowed the wizards to enter, and the key's destruction caused the bridge to crumble away. The fortress said outside of space and time...and not even the end of my summoning spell all
[19:00] <Anastasia> allowed me to return. The wizard and I were trapped." (More)
[19:03] <Anastasia> "In his fury the wizard attempted to escape. He could not. In his rage he attempted to spend his times researching with the library, trying to find a way to make a new key. He could not. In his sorrow he begged the Gods to have mercy on him and his folly. They did not. In his depression he spent countless lifetimes lying about, hoping for something to happen, anything. It did not. In his ultimate surrender, he cut his own throat."
[19:07] <Anastasia> "All that time I had been restrained by his magic, a relic left behind of little use once he found I was trapped as well. On his death I was freed of that, but still bound in the library. Over countless millenia I raged in there, smashing every book I could see. The boredom was interminable yet perfect, and no matter how many books I smashed, madness or an end would not come. One tired day, I sat down. I began to feel the tugs of w
[19:07] <Anastasia> tugs of what the mortal sorcerer felt, but my pride spurred me on. A demon is superior to a mortal and will not succumb to self destruction! I began to read as well, to find something to pass the eternity or find an escape." (More)
[19:09] <Anastasia> "I read a book...another book...another...another...and another. The Hezrou are brutes and warriors, but I found myself enjoying this. THe knowledge appealed to me and I learned millenia of hidden secrets and powers. Yet they taunted me, for none allowed escape. I kept reading and reading and reading...until at last I to a series of books. They were written by a mortal hand, and they talked of good. I laughed at it...but I read any
[19:09] <Anastasia> but I read anyway, for my desire for knowledge had grown." (More)
[19:11] <Anastasia> "I finished the book and tossed it aside! It was pathetic slop! I picked up the next...and it was another book in the same vein. I read it...and the next...and the next. The philosphy of good...I read of it. As I did, I had a single thought: A moment that if I had not followed evil completely, perhaps I would not be here. That perhaps what was written in these books was notentirely a mockery...!" (More)
[19:13] <Anastasia> "It tore at my mind like a gale! THis thought, once unleashed, drove me to read on. All the eternities spent in this library...and the idea was like sweet wine. If there had been a way to avoid this...I found myself reading of it more and more. I was in a haze, grasping at anything I could. Thus I read for an eternity, absorbing it all. I began to regret, to lament, to feel sorrow. Then I vowed to change myself...for what was writt
[19:14] <Anastasia> for what was written in these books called to me." (More)
[19:18] <Anastasia> "I rejected what Iwas completely. One of the philosophies was restraint, pacifism, or only allowing violence in th eface of true evil. It was the antithesis of everything I was, but I drank it down. And then...at last. Mortals entered the library! Another group of wizards, rejoicing at finding the lost library of the sages. The lead held it in his hand, a single key to the library. I finally stopped reading and while they glutted t
[19:18] <Anastasia> while they glutted themselves...I walked out. From there I walked the mortal realms for a time, spreading what I believed. I became entangled in the battles against chaos and demons, raising my hands only to protect those that could not protect themselves and promoting peace. From there..." The archon stopsa moment, shifting voice, "The giant angel said that when his works were done he came here to perfect his philosphy." Finally,
[19:19] <Anastasia>  Finally, the archon sighs. "That's such a long story."
[19:20] <Anastasia> Antenora listens to it all, staring by the end. She covers her mouth with a hand, "A hezrou SCHOLAR?" she eyes the archon, trying not to laugh. "The very concept is almost too fantastic to be imagined."
[19:20] <Alicia> "Makes me want to say that you can't judge a book by its cover," Alicia notes with a faint smile. "If the story is true, it makes me happy, although I can't help but wonder at the initial revalation that made him change - it could have just as easily been a celestial being that the wizard summoned to aid him in the battle, after all."
[19:22] <Anastasia> "I suppose, but not to him?" Antenora ventures. "That's now how I thought when I was back there brooding every night."
[19:24] <Alicia> "Perhaps," the paladin allows, "It sounds like he had lots of time to consider it from all angles... thank you for sharing that story, Denga," she nods to the archon. "Now, before I forget, you said that you had a message to pass along, as well?"
[19:25] <Anastasia> "It was the information I provided, so that all of you can prepare to the best of your ability," The little lantern archon says.
[19:26] <Alicia> "Ah, sorry," Alicia ducks her head, "I thought you meant you had a message seperate from the information you bore. Is there anything else of note you think we should know about?"
[19:28] <Anastasia> "Just a few things. Steel devils - they're dust covered warriors from the Blood War and planar battles. They let loose deafening, keening shrieks as they fight, making it very difficult for spellcasters to concentrate. We also suspect Amnizu will be around teh portal itself, as it's big enough to warrant them."
[19:29] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9 steel devils
06[19:29] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+9 steel devils and gets 11."12 [1d20=2]
[19:29] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9 amnizu
06[19:29] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+9 amnizu and gets 24."12 [1d20=15]
[19:31] <Anastasia> "Steel devils - that's about right. They're greatsword swinging mid rank devils. Not that dangerous, but they fight in packs. They're incredibly nasty against a spellcaster who has to concentrate. Amnizu aren't the best warriors, but they manage and control Hell's portals. If they've captured any mortals they'll be keeping them and they're likely directly under the command of the overall leader of the forces on this side."
[19:31] <Anastasia> Antenora adds all this in, "I can tell you more if you want." Her smile's a little faint, "I have a good reason not forgoet a single damned thing I heard or saw in Hell now."
[19:33] <Alicia> "I saw Amnizu when I was in Stygia but didn't fight any," Alicia nods. "As for steel devils, well, I can fight well enough even without casting spells. Might be a good idea if you can give us tactics once we get Seira, Demedais, and Donald together tomorrow, Antenora?"
[19:33] <Anastasia> "I'd be glad to," Antenora agrees.
[19:46] <Alicia> OOC: quick, one more question for Denga, can reply OOC - do the devil squad leaders have a habit of teleporting around?
[19:50] <Anastasia> Some of the leaders have escaped that way, yes. The hellfire warlock in particular is noted to.

[Corwin]

[21:52] <Kotono> --
06[21:53] * Seira continues the retreat, as she attempts to draw the attention of the sandstorm and its caster, while she waits for either the minute to pass or a visible change.
[21:55] <Kotono> The sandstorm seems to follow for now, as...OOC - This is going to be a tad slow, as it's currently reactive on a round by round basis, since you're all synced and #evil's in combat.
01[21:55] <Seira> OOC: Do I hear Deme?
[21:56] <Kotono> OOC: Dimly there, yeah, but he'll be out of verbal range soon.
06[21:57] * Seira nods at Demedais's words, casting stoneskin upon herself from a scroll before preparing to rush past the sandstorm.
[22:04] <Kotono> Seira casts stoneskin on herself! The storm approaches as she lulls, harrowing in on her but not all the way as she begins to run!
06[22:04] * Seira runs bravely through it, sword drawn!
[22:04] <Kotono> OOC: You're running into the storm?
01[22:05] <Seira> OOC: Yes!
[22:07] <Kotono> Seira runs into the storm! Instantly her field of vision drops to only a little bit ahead of her(25 ft). Sand flays at her flesh, as she can see running, prancing figures somewhere ahead in the storm! OOC - Do you have any sort of DR functioning?
01[22:07] <Seira> OOC: Stoneskin is DR 10/Adamant
[22:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[22:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[22:08] <Kotono> OOC - Strike, wrong room.
01[22:08] <Seira> OOC: Applies to each attack, if it matters
[22:08] <Kotono> OOC: Okay, it's fine as is.
[22:17] <Kotono> OOC: Stirke the last bit.
[22:19] <Kotono> Seira begins to run parrelel to the sandstorm, trying to get around the edge of it. This is going to take som etime, though.
01[22:20] <Seira> Haste will make everything better, anyway!
03[22:36] * Kotono is now known as Tiny_Ko_Army
[22:37] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Seira clears the side of the sandstorm and starts to work around! The sandstorm begins to react, starting to whirl back to the side and follow! However, Seira's blood chills as she hears a deep, booming voice. Something about...a superior being?

[Corwin]

[19:13] <Kotono> ---
03[19:13] * Retrieving #terrorofdunes modes...
03[19:14] * Kotono sets mode: +o Seira
[19:19] <Kotono> Once she parts from the recordkeeper, Seira has freedom again amid the quiet nighttime camp...OOC - Ball's in your court for the moment, goa head and look stuff up or look for someone or whatever,a s you wanted to do.
01[19:22] <Seira> There is one celestial that had helped her already. He's the one she'll seek out now, since she wants to plan ahead. With the enemy fortress discovered, it is time for such plans now.
[19:28] <Kotono> The search is a fairly long one. She eventually looks into the main hall, where the glowing, radiant archon who leads this expidition is. A few celestials are in rapt discussion with him, including your friend. They are talking quite openly, "With this final blow and with the aid of those heroic mortals that have given us their service, the gate will be closed."
01[19:29] <Seira> "Yeah, sure, you bet'cha!" Seira agrees, walking up to them and waving when appropriate. "What's up?"
[19:34] <Kotono> The radiance of the archon shines on Seira, dazzling her eyes to near blindness. "The time to end this is nigh.  Our forces are pushing the devils back to their vile camp, and thus it shall be ended. Soon I will ask for you and your allies to go forth, to aid in the destruction of this place."
06[19:36] * Seira has strong eyes, and an even stronger will! She'd be thrice damned before she blinks or looks away. "I heard," she comments. "It would be nice to know just what -- and who -- might be waiting on the other side of the battlements, but I suppose you'll brief us when we're ready to go, right?"
[19:40] <Kotono> "Beyond the simple word of 'devils', we aren't sure yet. There do seem to be several entrances, however. There is a large entryway on the ground, a few aerial cracks in the plateau that have devils pour from them, and what seems to be a cracked open top of the plateau aswell."
06[19:43] * Seira nods. "Assaulting from several directions at once is our best option, probably, if all groups could coordinate at need, and we keep a reserve to assist any of them in case of a trap." She shakes her head, then. "But that's not really what I wanted to talk about. Got a moment to discuss what happens next for the people of the Fiefdoms?"
[19:46] <Kotono> With a wave of his hand, the archon dismisses the others. Your friend smiles briefly as he goes by, but the archon's attention is on you. It's an attention like a laser beam, radiant and overwhelming. It's presence is palpable. "Of course."
01[19:48] <Seira> "Excellent!" Seira takes a seat, hoping he doesn't mind. "You see, I've been toying with the idea of building up a sister temple to our own temple to Waukeen in the capital, and using it as my base of operations. It'd start with pretty much the usual relief efforts, but it is my hope to gather the best and brightest and direct them towards a fulfilling life of discovering magic." (more)
06[19:49] * Seira shrugs. "Or even an education, really. Commerce can't really be all that bad once we get past the initial investment, so it won't need to depend on donations. What do you think about the idea?"
[19:53] <Kotono> "I see. Your actions sound of good mind and of good intentions. Bringing aide, as lon gas the motives are pure, is highly laudible. But tell me, what will you do with the power base you establish?" You can sort of see his face - it's kind and yet indescriably fierce, making Seira's heart skip a few beats.
06[19:55] * Seira calms herself down before answering steadily. "Compare this invasion and the one taking place next to Balmuria. Examine the differences. That would be the prime reason -- to defend our plane from invasion by having a strong, capable native presence everywhere we are able to reach. There are others, of course, no less important. (more)
01[19:57] <Seira> This center would serve as a beacon for the humans in the area, hopefully guiding them in the right direction. And, of course, it would aid us all greatly for when we inevitably have to face Daa-vid and whatever minions he might have left." She shrugs once more. "There's also the matter of wanting to restore the world fully to its rightful place.
01[19:57] <Seira> I had gotten glimpses of how we all could've turned out without this god-king's presence and influence, and I prefer that to the current situation, I must say."
[20:01] <Kotono> "You have spoken well." The archon's look turns to respite and kindness, soothing Seira. Tension vanishes from the room. "You have also spoken wisely. Even with the defeat of the main force, deviltry will leave a long, lingering mark on this desert country. I fear that as the world continues to awaken, devils will work here to ensure this land becomes of their tastes."
06[20:03] * Seira nods. "There are also demons to consider, and adventurous guests from other planes. You are aware of the gith visit to Balmuria a while back, right? In a way, we are responsible for opening the doorway, and then alerting them to its presence. They, or others like them, might wish to exploit a world largely bereft of defenders capable of dealing with such threats."
[20:07] <Kotono> "Exactly. The doors are being opened wide. Even if not as vile as devils, others will find time and reason to come. The more the seals are undone..." The archon shifts back a little, "The more the seals are undone, the more that will come and change. STill, I am pleased by your vision ahead. The vigliance you hold for your world is commendable."
01[20:09] <Seira> "This would all be achieved even faster if we got some help from you guys," Seira says bluntly. "We'll help society, heal the damaged land and put the ghosts of the past to rest, at long last. My question is, really, just how much are you allowed to help, and how much will you?"
[20:14] <Kotono> "The gates are indeed opening. Most of us cannot directly intervene in the matter of the God King. Our aid there can be only indirect at best. However, the devils that slip through...we have no such limitation." A fierce smile burns on the archon's face, like a brand of justice.
01[20:20] <Seira> "What about my little project? Could you spare the manpower and knowledge for it? A few spells, perhaps, or even several choice words placed in the ears of the right priests to summon them to aid the cause?"
[20:25] <Kotono> "Your cause appears to aid Good, so I have no compunctions to this," he agrees.
01[20:27] <Seira> "I dislike resorting to cheap tricks, but if magic or an obvious blessing were used at the construction of the temple, it might make the people more susceptible to trying the new things and methods we'll offer," Seira muses. "And, of course, not being local it would aid greatly to have someone on our side that had spent time in the area and would be committed to the same idea."
03[20:28] * Demedais is now known as Tai{slp}
[20:36] <Kotono> "Reasonable. I have no objections to this," The archon agrees, "May it spread much compassion and justice."
03[20:36] * Ebiris (WinNT@90.240.93.43) has joined #terrorofdunes
03[20:36] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Ebiris
03[20:36] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[20:57] <Kotono> ---

[Corwin]

[20:13] <Kotono> ----
[20:18] <Kotono> Rain. The rain comes down in buckets that pelt everything this night. The clouds burst in the heavens, turning Balmuria into the target of it's raining pulses. Demedais has already rested for the night, the midnight hour having passed. As Demedais walks the temple interior, he passes into the front hall. Father Ceiar is there, in one of the many deep shadows. He seems to be talking to someone most animatedly.
06[20:21] * Demedais blinks and stops for a moment, surprised to see others still awake and with such energy. After a moment of thought, he decides to pray at the altar and let Father Ceiar continue his conversation relatively undisturbed.
[20:25] <Kotono> As Demedais goes to the altar, he can catch a glimse of the other person. She has a hood and cloak on, but the shadow of her face is alluring, hints of beauty. But on seeing Demedais, she steps further back into the shadows, drawing her hood up.  Father Ceiar glances back, "That's just Demedais," he says offhandedly. "He's a warrior paladin of our temple."
06[20:27] * Demedais waves once in greeting, before kneeling at the altar. It's his own business, whatever's going on... though curiousity doesn't stop him from listening to any parts of the conversation that drift his way.
[20:27] <Kotono> OOC - Listening check, then. Nooooosy! <_<
03[20:28] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@70.112.23.198) has joined #terrorofdunes
03[20:28] * Kotono sets mode: +v Hatbot
[20:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13 Not my fault I have good ears now! >_>
06[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+13 Not my fault I have good ears now! >_> and gets 27."12 [1d20=14]
[20:33] <Kotono> "I see." The woman's voice is surprisingly kindly, old. "Not from nearby, no. To the other, ..." A gap here, her voice not reaching, "...knee to another. Duty above all other? I suppose I can see the wisdom in it, yet not what is truly important."
[20:34] <Kotono> Father Ceiar's voice now. "Duty is important. But...Ah, you do not sound as if you want to discuss theology?" A short pause, unsure if something was missed. "Fearsome rain tonight."
[20:37] <Kotono> "I thank you for the chance to escape it for a few minutes." Another pause, "It's only natural, though nature does not take into account our desires on timing."
03[20:37] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-54426e6c.l6.c2.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #terrorofdunes
03[20:37] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Ebiris
03[20:37] * Retrieving #terrorofdunes modes...
[20:37] <Kotono> "How..." Ceiar chooses a word carefully to the hooded woman here. "I suppose order would do it good, then?"
[20:38] <Kotono> "No." This is said with the slightest bit of sharpness in her voice, "No, nature would not. Nature follows it's own rythym, to manipulate is it arrogant folly."
[20:39] <Kotono> "Ah..." A pause where the words drift too slient. "...which? Are you perhaps...?" Ceiar speaks.
[20:41] <Kotono> "The Great Mother," Her voice answers. "But...I didn't come to discuss theology, either," she seconds his words, "I should go. I thank you for your kind offer inthe storm."
06[20:42] * Demedais finishes his prayer and stands again, briefly looking up and stretching. A bow and a step back from the altar, before he turns to go to the stable to continue the rounds.
[20:43] <Kotono> Outside the rain falls heavily. The horses in the stable are mostly sleeping or standing still, little to do right now...OOC - Make another listening check.
[20:43] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13
06[20:43] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+13 and gets 33."12 [1d20=20]
06[20:48] * Demedais lightly steps to the back of the stable, eyes only half directed toward the horses as he tries to catch the source of the steps out of the corner of his eye.
[21:05] <Kotono> One of the horses in the back has a guest. A figure clad in a cloak and hood stands near it, one hand on the horses head. It doesn't seem to be threatened by it, looking on at the person with it's equine gaze.
03[21:05] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
06[21:06] * Demedais nods once to the figure, glancing at the horse and the person for a moment. "Hello."
[21:07] <Kotono> Demedais doesn't get a reply at first, her hand stroking the horse's head instead. "Good evening." The same kind, womanly voice is heard to Demedais as before. "Demedais, wasn't it?"
[21:10] <Demedais> "Ah, yes." Demedais pauses, before a nod. "That is I. We rarely have travelers here this late... though with this rain, anyone could want inside, so."
[21:13] <Kotono> "It's rather unpleasant," she agrees, hand falling away fromt he horse. "You're a paladin?"
[21:15] <Demedais> "Yes." Demedais nods once, eyes straying out to the rain. "May I inquire your name, miss?"
[21:17] <Kotono> "Kelly," she replies, "Tell me, do you leave the city often?"
[21:19] <Demedais> "...Quite often." Demedais nods after a moment, leaning back. "Why? ..." A glance to the horse, then back to Kelly.
[21:21] <Kotono> "Curiosity." Her face is still unseen, but her voice is soothing. "Good night to you, but I should continue on. I've tarried too long."
[21:23] <Demedais> "May Helm watch over you on your journey, then." Demedais steps back a bit at this, to give the horse a bit of room to get out. "And be careful not to fall ill in this rain."
[21:26] <Kotono> "May the Earthmother guide you," she repeats, taking her horse and heading out. Into the rain she goes like a ghost, vanishing as she is obscured by the storm.

[Corwin]

01[17:29] <Seira> [23:03] <Seira> "I guarantee success," Seira says firmly. "Anyone can learn magic in some form. There is only a matter of wanting to improve. As long as that exists, the entirety of my commitment would be backing those people up."
01[17:29] <Seira> [23:04] <Kotono> "Okay," He nods, "I'llt ry my bed, Headmaster." He stands up at that, "I know I can do this."
01[17:29] <Seira> [23:05] <Seira> "We'll review your progress again in a few months, to see the effects of this new approach," Seira tells Ren. "This is hardly the only idea I have to try."
01[17:29] <Seira> [23:11] <Kotono> "Alright," he agrees again, "...I'll succeed. I know I can and I don't want to go back to the mines."
01[17:29] <Seira> [23:12] * Seira smiles genuinely at such dedication.
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
03[17:30] * Kowork sets mode: +ooo Alicia Demedais Seira
03[17:30] * Kowork is now known as Kotono
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:03] <Seira> "I guarantee success," Seira says firmly. "Anyone can learn magic in some form. There is only a matter of wanting to improve. As long as that exists, the entirety of my commitment would be backing those people up."
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:04] <Kotono> "Okay," He nods, "I'llt ry my bed, Headmaster." He stands up at that, "I know I can do this."
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:05] <Seira> "We'll review your progress again in a few months, to see the effects of this new approach," Seira tells Ren. "This is hardly the only idea I have to try."
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:11] <Kotono> "Alright," he agrees again, "...I'll succeed. I know I can and I don't want to go back to the mines."
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:12] * Seira smiles genuinely at such dedication.
[17:36] <Kotono> "I will," Ren agrees quietly.
06[17:38] * Seira walks Ren to the reception area, where she intends to direct him to Elby, so that they could make plans towards their study sessions.
[17:41] <Kotono> OOC: Seira, what are the rest of your plans?
01[17:42] <Seira> OOC: See the rest of them, then go find the slacker

[Corwin]

[22:38] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> ----------------------------------------------------(Wall ko goes here)
03[22:38] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@70.114.135.18) has joined #terrorofdunes
03[22:40] * Retrieving #terrorofdunes modes...
03[22:42] * Infinite_Ko_Loop sets mode: +oooo Alicia Demedais Hatbot Seira
[22:42] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Once Seira leaves, Demedais is left with Antenora and Marie. "Are you ready?" he asks.
06[22:47] * Demedais looks down into the lava. "That stuff clings to the body, doesn't it?" he says after a moment.
[22:48] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "It does," The dwarf agrees. "Have you been embraced by the magmas before?"
[22:50] <Demedais> "I have not." Demedais says. "And I think that, on second reflection, I am wise enough to know I cannot withstand this forging. Yet." A look to the dwarf. "I will most likely return to undertake this, but for now, I know my duty, and that overrides any machismo I may have in wanting to try it." A slight grin at this, sobering again. "I apologize, but."
[22:50] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "As you wish. Kossuth does not try the unwilling," he says solemnly. "Those that are unwilling are not yet worthy of his blessings."
[22:52] <Demedais> "Yeah, that's the general gist of most such trials." Demedais nods. "There will be a time when I need this, I suspect, but... not yet. Thank you, and I plan on returning some day.
[22:58] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Just going to wait now?" Antenora asks, glancing down the two paths.
[22:58] <Demedais> "Yes." Demedais nods once, leaning back.
[22:58] <Alicia> "Alicia isn't in any trouble, yet," Marie dutifully reports.

[Corwin]

[17:53] <Kogone> ---------------------------------
[17:57] <Kogone> "...uf!" Engan grunts as he shudders under Demedais sure, powerful stroke. The sword blow rattles him, making his entire body resonate as he goes into a defensive posture. "Alright, enough," he says, planting the tip of his sword into the ground and leaning onto it. "Good enough." Around you, the garrison practice yards are busy, partially by other soldiers going through training and partially because of a small crowd watching Demedai
[17:57] <Kogone> small crowd watching Demedais and Engan practice.  (More)
[17:58] <Kogone> As the afternoon sun shines down, Engan wipes his brow. "I think you got the better of this one today," he says to Demedais. "Either that or I'm getting older."
06[18:00] * Demedais settles back into a relaxed position as well, rubbing his left arm with a slight wince. "I wasn't sure I'd manage that slash, honestly."
[18:01] <Kogone> A few cheers come from the crowd - and one boo from the back, notably - "I was. You're improving as fast as a troll heals." Picking up his sword, "Up for a drink? It's on me."
03[18:02] * Teresa is now known as Seira
[18:02] <Demedais> "Ch, trolls." Demedais says with a slight grin, vaguely wondering about the boo but not terribly worried about it. "And... sure."
[18:04] <Kogone> Thus the two walk away from the garrison grounds. AS they head towards the southern gate and the inns there, "Speaking of, did you see that elf friend of yours watching in the back? More proof that bad wishes can't make you lose a swordfight, I suppose."
[18:05] <Demedais> "Ah. Donald. Nice kid, good with a sword, holds grudges for longer than a dragon's flight." Demedais grimaces.
[18:09] <Kogone> "Strange...elf..." Engan says but trails off, but stops to peer ahead. In the air you can hear a few cries, a few people running away from the southern gate.
06[18:11] * Demedais pauses only briefly, uttering a soft "What in..." before moving quickly to check.
[18:13] <Kogone> Engan is moving at the same time, hand on the handle of his sword! As the two rush ahead, they see indeed what is going on! A few guards are lead by two familiar faces. Daril and Morund, wearing red, stand just before three giants. These tall giants are familiar, wearing the hide and leather armor and carrying the spears of the giant Demedais fought in the Barbarian Lands. Two of them lug some godawfully large statue, easily as long a
[18:13] <Kogone> Two of them lug some godawfully large statue, easily as long as them. The third stands before the Guards.
06[18:19] * Demedais looks carefully over the three, and especially over the statue for chaos, before nodding to the unlaboring giant. "Greetings. May I ask the purposes for which this statue is being brought into town, sir...?"
[18:23] <Kogone> The lead one, a vast giant that towers over the humans like a mountain, "It's a gift. One of your warriors did us a service."
06[18:24] * Demedais leans back for a moment, attempting to look him in the eye from his diminuitive height. "May I inquire which one?"
[18:26] <Kogone> "A female who conducted herself surprisingly well," The lead giant nearly bellows, as Morun and Daril keep on a careful guard, chiding the soldiers to stay in place.
[18:26] <Kogone> "Seira or Alicia?" Engan ventures quietly to Demedais.
[18:27] <Kogone> The lead giant makes a gesture, the statue bearers grunting. They place the statue right side up with a heavy THUMP! It's about twenty feet tall, towering and made of polished grey stone. It is of a giant in hide armor and spear, a massive work of art.
[18:28] <Demedais> "I would guess Alicia, as Seira has been dealing with the Desert Fiefdoms for a while." Demedais replies after a moment. "That and they'd probably call Seira 'reptile' at this point, sadly." At this, he looks over the statue, face straight. "Quite impressive craftsmanship..."
[18:28] <Kogone> OOC - Do you have any ranks in Appraise?
[18:29] <Kogone> The lead giant nods. "She helped prevent a war, one that has turned out to be...beneficial," the lead giant chooses his words carefully. "Our clan is not ungrateful to have good neighbors."
[18:29] <Demedais> OOC: No. He's mainly impressed by the size.
03[18:30] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[18:30] <Kogone> OOC: Carry on then.
[18:34] <Demedais> "We do what we can." Demedais nods once, to this, before looking to try and see if there any soldier idly gawping around here.
[18:35] <Kogone> The soldiers behind Morund and Daril are keeping on guard, eyes on the front. A few soldiers are behind the gate, doing just that and staring at the vast humanoids in front of them.
06[18:37] * Demedais nods just a tad, deciding to wait for a moment. "Would you like to present this to her directly? As this is your gift, it is only right you choose how it is delivered to her."
[18:39] <Kogone> "If she's here, yes, it would be preferable. It's a gift to your entire clan, however." The two who carried it grunt and start to pick it up again.
[18:43] <Demedais> "Ah. I see." Demedais says at that, before, "If you could tell your two men to wait for a moment, I would like to have Alicia and Commander Oberuth come and see this to assist in deciding where we shall place it." Pausing for a moment before looking to the two nearest soldiers, "If you could go fetch Alicia, and you, Oberuth? It would be appreciated." Demedais the
[18:44] <Demedais> OOC: Strike, hold on.
[18:44] <Demedais> "Ah. I see." Demedais says at that, before, "If you could tell your two men to wait for a moment, I would like to have Alicia and Commander Oberuth come and see this to assist in deciding where we shall place it." Pausing for a moment before looking to the two nearest soldiers, "If you could go fetch Alicia, and you, Oberuth? It would be appreciated."
[18:44] <Kogone> "Sir," Two of the soldiers quickly stiffen up and head to do just that.
[18:44] <Kogone> Meanwhile, "Which of you fought with one of our warriors near a goblin camp," The leader asks as they go.
[18:46] <Demedais> "That misunderstanding was my fault, I am afraid." Demedais nods once. "His skill with a spear was quite impressive."
[18:46] <Kogone> "Misunderstanding?" The lead giant throws his head back in a laugh, "He has a magnificent scar from it! He says you hit harder than a troll and took a harder shot than one!"
[18:49] <Demedais> "Ah, yes. He did insist I not heal that." Demedais grins a bit at this. "I would not mind facing him again sometime, though my duty may prevent that for a while.
[18:51] <Kogone> "You're a worthy opponent by all reports," The leader agrees. He looks about, to Engan, the soldiers, Daril and Morund. "For small things, oua ren't nearly so bothersome as goblins."
[18:52] <Demedais> "We prefer an orderly peace. The goblins trouble us as well on occasion, though I suspect your clan has much to do with why we have heard little of them in a while." Demedais nods.
[18:55] <Kogone> With a biiig smile, "The goblins have been...dealt with and subdued. Ideally we'll at least have them be...acceptably busy and productive."
[18:56] <Demedais> "I... see." Demedais nods after a moment. "That is good to hear, at least."
[18:59] <Kogone> As the two talk, Alicia approaches the gate. She can see the situation, down to the giants and Demedais, as well as Engan and the two new members of the Guard.
[19:00] <Alicia> OOC: do I recognise any of the giants in particular?
[19:04] <Alicia> "Chief Autumnus!" Alicia calls as she approaches. "To what do we owe this honour?"
[19:05] <Kogone> "This," The giant steps back, as the two giants of burden grunt and set the statue down, "A gift to your clan for your deeds."
[19:06] <Kogone> Morund just watches this, though his voice can be faintly heard, "Thank Helm we didn't have to fight that..."
[19:07] <Alicia> "I didn't think a gift was deserved, but on behalf of Balmuria I accept it with thanks," Alicia graciously accepts. "I trust the peace we brokered still stands, then?"
06[19:07] * Demedais leans back with Morund as Alicia and the giant talk, and confides in him quietly, "Indeed. Not something I'd have looked forward to."
[19:12] <Kogone> "You're welcome. Where do you want it?" Autumnus asks, "They can put it whereever you like."
[19:12] <Kogone> Meanwhile, Commander Oberuth is jogging up now, approaching the gate.
[19:14] <Alicia> "Um, I'm not really an urban planner..." Alicia admits, glancing around for any input and lighting up as she spots Obureth. "The commmander should know, though! Commander Obureth, this is Chief Autumnus of the Green Boulder clan," she calls over. "He wishes to present this statue as a gift to Balmuria for being such fine neighbours - where should we put it?"
[19:14] <Kogone> "I know." Morund whispers back, "Those things could throw that bloody statue at us!"
06[19:16] * Demedais nods to this, before looking to Commander Oberuth. "If we had a central square, I would consider that ideal... as it is, I am not sure, however."
[19:17] <Kogone> "...ah." Oberuth looks over the situation, "The garrison's close to that, or any of the big temples. That's not a bad idea to have one of those...but..." Shaking his head out of it. "Bring it to the garrison. We'll figure out some way to move it later if we need to."
[19:17] <Alicia> "This way, then," Alicia gestures for the giants to follow her as she starts towards the garrison.
06[19:18] * Demedais nods as well, moving to walk with Alicia and Oberuth after a warm nod to Daril and Morund.
[19:19] <Kogone> Thus the group of Alicia, Demedais, Engan, Oberuth and three giants proceed into town. There are quite a few gawkers, though some look, shrug and continue on.  As you walk back, "Taking it in stride," Engan observes, barely out loud.
[19:20] <Demedais> "Shamal did stranger with the tiger." Demedais replies.
[19:21] <Kogone> "I wa sjust thinking about that," Oberuth grins. He then raises his voice, "Stop gawking, people. They're friendly, go back to your work."
03[19:21] * Kogone is now known as Kotono
[19:22] <Kotono> The giants lug onward, approaching the garrison. At times they stare the humans right back, which causes a few to quickly retreat well away.
[19:23] <Alicia> "Well, it's obvious that you're doing well if you're throwing gifts around," Alicia comments to the chief as they head towards the garrison. "How's everyone else in that part of the forest doing? No trouble from Elina and her friends or anything else, I take it? I haven't had time to pay another visit with how busy things have been, here."
[19:28] <Kotono> "We seem to be getting along well enough. They haven't made moves to war now that the goblins are safe," With a slight snort, "Such concern over goblins still perplexes me. No matter. They're content to worship Jannath and tell the other dwellers of nature about her."
[19:29] <Kotono> "Jannath? Haven't heard that one," Engan murmurs as the two giants go to the front of the garrison yard. They put thes tatue down there, grunting heavily.
06[19:30] * Demedais nods a bit at this, before pausing at Engan's words.
[19:32] <Alicia> "She's an aspect of Chauntea, the Earth Mother," Alicia supplies for those ignorant. "More focused on primal nature than cultivation, however. Anyway, it's like I explained, Chief, nobody really likes goblins, but there are limits that everyone sticks by - including goblins, that's why they can at least be tolerated," she addresses Autumnus as the statue is placed. "But we've already been over that, so no need to rehash it all."
06[19:34] * Demedais eyes the statue, himself. "Is this of a specific warrior, Chief, or...?"
[19:35] <Kotono> "Yes. We've heard that enough at home," Autumnus grunts, "It's none in particular, it's idealized. Anyway, things seem to be peaceful enough now. You have our thanks for your clan's services and respect."
06[19:38] * Demedais nods once at Autumnus' words, in thought for a moment. "Thank you for this grand gift."
[19:39] <Alicia> "You have our thanks for being good neighbours," Alicia adds. "Would you care for refreshments while you are here?" They'd probably have to clean out a few nearby food vendors to satisfy a giant's appetite, but such things are worthwhile in the name of diplomacy.
[19:41] <Kotono> "Oh no, I intend to hunt on the morrow," Autumnus laughs, though the two lugging giants send him nasty looks behind his back.
[19:41] <Kotono> Oberuth nods, "We'll take good care of this gift."
[19:58] <Kotono> Once the giants are gone, Engan looks away from the southern gate. "How...completely unexpected," he says at last. "At least they weren't hostile."
[19:59] <Demedais> "Indeed. Fighting them once was enough." Demedais nods. "Although how the statue will influence training, I cannot say."
[20:00] <Kotono> "Speaking of..." Engan considers, "Did you still want that drink?"
[20:01] <Demedais> "Sure." Demedais acquiesces after a moment.
[20:02] <Kotono> "Mmm. Say." Turning to Demedais, "Are you up to braving your grudge rival? I haven't been to that dragon themed inn in awhile."
[20:04] <Demedais> "Sure." Demedais nods, rolling his shoulders back a bit.
[20:09] <Kotono> Seira's inn is full of business. On entering, you can see a few familiar faces amid the crowd. Elle is by a window, sipping a glass of wine and relaxing. Donald stands near the bar, arms crossed as he keeps an eye out.  Engan goes for a table, sitting down heavily. "Aaaah."
06[20:11] * Demedais sits down opposite him, cracking one shoulder back leisurely as his loses himself in his thoughts for a moment. "Good to rest after a day's worth of training?"
[20:13] <Kotono> "Very. Especially after fighting you. You hit harder than a dragon now," With another snort, "I'm not just trying to get you to pay for drinks with flattery, either."
[20:15] <Demedais> "Heh." Demedais shakes his head a bit. "And practicing with you accounts for much of that improvement."
[20:18] <Kotono> "Improvement?" Donald calls over loudly.
06[20:20] * Demedais raises one eyebrow at this, before glancing over to Donald with some slight amusement. "Hello to you too, Donald."
[20:22] <Kotono> "You're doing...something." He finishes oddly a moment, crossing his arms. "So you knocked around Engan?"
[20:22] <Kotono> Engan chuckles, shaking his head, "Kid, how about you get us drinks if you're standing there?"
06[20:24] * Demedais looks at Donald lazily. "He underrates himself; any longer and I would have been thrown back on the defensive rather badly there."
[20:34] <Kotono> "Hah," Donald seems to stew in it, but abruptly turns away and gives the two plenty of space.
06[20:35] * Demedais raises an eyebrow quizzically at this, before looking to Engan with some confusion

[Corwin]

[18:58] <Kobreakfast> ---------------------------(Wallhack Ko)--
[19:01] <Kobreakfast> The vision that comes from Helm is a strong one. He and Eudard must leave Balmuria immediately and travel forth. The two do after Demedais informs Commander Oberuth, travelling beyond Balmuria. The late afternoon is serene as the two ride out on horseback, away from the bustle of Balmuria. Eudard is rather subdued for now. (More)
[19:04] <Kobreakfast> As you travel out, they come like a gust of cooling air. Mists sweep and surround the two paladins, brushing them aside from the here and now.  For a moment Demedais swears he can see Uatu, several men surrounding him in a field, but it is a momentary thing. (More)
[19:10] <Kobreakfast> Hot. Muggy. Wet. All of these can describe the current situation that Demedais and Eudard find themselves in. It's dank, slightly dark and oppressively humid. Only occasional rays of sunlight are about, coming from above. You stand in what look sto be some sort of forest, vibrantly colored and every so drainingly hot and humid. Rainbow colored bugs scurry away from the two, oversized frogs croaking and staring at the two armored me
[19:10] <Kobreakfast> and staring at the two armored men. There is a faint whiff of smoke in the air.
[19:11] <Kobreakfast> Eudard grimaces, coughing. "Ugh...this is terrible," he remarks, drawing his mount up as he looks about. "A forest? I've never seen one like this."
[19:14] <Demedais> "Neither have I." Demedais comments, grunting as he looks around. "This is certainly a unique environment, to say the least." After a moment, he checks for wind, to try and see where the smell of smoke might be coming from.
[19:16] <Kobreakfast> The smell of smoke is coming from a slight northeasterly breeze. You can hear the calls of bugs and insects, a steady din. Here and there p uddles of water linger, dark colored bugs clustered in them. Fortunately, Demedais' armor is doing a fine job of muting the heat for him, though it's still muggy enough to make him feel sweaty instantly.
[19:18] <Demedais> "Let's see if we can get out of this area. The smoke seems to be from... that direction." Demedais says after a moment. "I'd like a clearing to get a bit of bearings, but finding someone - anyone - here will do, I think."
[19:20] <Kobreakfast> "I concur," Eudard waves his gauntleted hand in front of his face, "It's like trying to breathe boiling water out here."
06[19:24] * Demedais grunts. "If we have to spend a night out here, I will see what I can do regarding making this an easier trip." With that, he heads in the direction of the smoke.
[19:26] <Kobreakfast> It's hard going - the ground has vines, tangles and small, well hidden holes that require careful travel. After about fifteen minutes, the scent of smoke gets stronger and the ground is sloping up slightly. It's not a clearing of true sorts, but you can see the heavy forestation and vegetation knock off a head - at a high sloping cliff. Past it you can see smoke wafting up.
06[19:29] * Demedais blinks at this, and advances farther ahead to try and see if he can spot the source of the smoke.
[19:31] <Kobreakfast> As your steeds climb up, Eudard pats his on the side. "C'mon, I know it's miserable," he murmurs as you get a view! Below is a sloping valley, a raging river cutting through it. On one side is a village in ruin - dark skinned men and women wear little, using flame arrows and hammers to destroy the settlement! On the other side is a harmonious village, the same type of people working hard to rebuild a town, several buildings half co
[19:31] <Kobreakfast> several buildings half complete or better.
[19:32] <Demedais> "...even odds that's our destination. Shall we make our way down there and see what we can do, if anything?" Demedais muses. "At the least, it'll help us figure out what's going on here."
[19:36] <Kobreakfast> "..curious," Eudard grunts as well, wheeling his horse back, "Yes, let's." Thus the two head down the cliff, looking for a path down! This takes perhaps twenty minutes with the bad terrain, but eventually they reach the village! This is as close to a clearing, about four dozen people standing and watching as the village burns to the ground! The work seems to be over, though a man wearing what looks to be a frogskin cape and a feath
[19:36] <Kobreakfast> though a man wearing what looks to be a frogskin cape and a feathered headband is chanting at the fire, sprinkling ashes at it.
06[19:38] * Demedais muses. "Dismounting here. Don't want to startle them." he says simply, before moving off Horse and advancing slowly, leading Horse with his left hand and holding up his right, palm open.
[19:42] <Kobreakfast> Eudard follows suite, as the two approach. As they do a few of them turn to the two armored men. One shrugs, and another says, "Don't interrupt," His voice is quite understandable and quite low pitched, "This is the santification of the burning!"
06[19:43] * Demedais nods slightly, watching carefully. No reason to disrupt their ritual; let this finish before any issues are brought up.
[19:47] <Kobreakfast> "Now...in the ashes of the old, savor what has been lost and what will re born again!" The leading man says, a stern face as the people begin to chant. It is one word - Zenalannt. "In the ashes of the old the cycle of the storm shall continue! The ritual of the burning will sweep away the fetid stench of the past and bring a wind of vitality!"
06[19:48] * Demedais looks to Eudard at this, stepping back just a small bit so as not to distract.
[19:49] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 K:R
06[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 K:R and gets 24." [1d20=13]
06[19:55] * Demedais nods slightly before whispering a prayer under his breath. "Helm, guide these people, and assist them in their lives; and help us assist them in what ways we can, to do your duty here."
[19:57] <Kobreakfast> The chants of Zenalannt grow louder, like a pulse in the air. "Now celebrate," he cries, the burning half-village at his back, "Celebrate the storm and the fury! Celebrate the destruction and the seed of rebirth in it!"
[19:57] <Kobreakfast> Eudard watches, stony faced as the settlement on this side of the river burns. He shakes his head once, and below his breath, "Madness," he mutters.
06[19:59] * Demedais gives a slight nod to Eudard, and, just as low under his own breath, "May this be the last time it's needed."
[20:02] <Kobreakfast> As the smoke spreads, the people begin to dance and chant! As this goes on and the fires wax and then begin to wane, "Travelers," The priest(?) calls, approaching them. He is stern and well kept for an older man, hair going gray rapidly. "To what does this settlement owe the honors of iron-wearing travelers from beyond the jungle?"
[20:08] <Demedais> "I will keep this simple; we have been sent here by our god, Helm." Demedais says succinctly. "I am Demedais, and this is Eudard. ...Tell me, what is this ritual for? I have not seen such a ritual performed before." he asks out of curiousity.
[20:09] <Kobreakfast> "We are on a quest," Eudard answers, "A quest for the God Helm," He stops as Demedais speaks, letting him take over.
[20:09] <Kobreakfast> roll 1d20+13
06[20:09] * Hatbot --> "Kobreakfast rolls 1d20+13 and gets 18." [1d20=5]
[20:10] <Kobreakfast> "Ah Helm..." he murmurs, "One of the Gods from beyond the jungle...I see, I see. We follow the dictates of Zenalannt, who teaches that the path to enlightenment lies in the balance between destruction and creation, the eternal cycle of nature."
06[20:14] * Demedais looks to Eudard in apology, before nodding to the priest. "I see. How often is this ritual performed, then?"
03[20:17] * Kobreakfast is now known as Kotono
[20:20] <Kotono> "Once a month," The answer brings a smile to his face as he spreads his arms out, "WE are always vital, always changing, always finding new enlightenment! But of that...what is your quest you are on, travelers? What has your God sent you on?"
[20:24] <Kotono> "A quest for...peace," Eudard answers. "A quest to understand. A quest so that I might find release from my torments."
[20:27] <Kotono> "A good reason to quest, one I understand well." Offering a hand to both of you, "You do not look attuned to the jungle, wearing that heavy armor. Would you care for my aid, then?"
06[20:28] * Demedais nods to Eudard's words, seeing little to add on directly. "We would appreciate this. My armor provides some assistance, but not much in these conditions, I must confess."
06[20:29] * Demedais takes this moment to look around for chaos, on a whim.
[20:32] <Kotono> The two are lead along to the river. It's fast moving and fairly deep. Stopping in front of it, the cleric kneels, "Zenalannt! l
[20:32] <Kotono> OOC - Gah.
02[20:32] * Hatbot (www-data@70.114.144.25) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by halbarad))
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[20:33] <Kotono> The two are lead along to the river. It's fast moving and fairly deep. Stopping in front of it, the cleric kneels, "Zenalannt! Let the cycle of nature reach it's ebb point!" With that prayer, the river parts! A ten foot dry patch appears, muddy and rocky. The rest of the river flows on, oblivious to this.
06[20:38] * Demedais raises an eyebrow in interest, before nodding. "Do you wish to lead the way, or shall I?" he asks the priest deferentially.
[20:41] <Kotono> Eudard crosses slowly, the ground soft but not too sinky, most of the river bottom is more or less solid. "Follow me," the priest says, leading them into the village-in-being. It is being constructed around you, one building in the center of note. It is a plain wooden building, painted with thunderbolts. You are lead inside of it - it's one big room. Most of it is a large, scorched firepit, with a bed and some tables in the back. "The h
[20:41] <Kotono> with a bed and some tables in the back. "The house of Zenalannt. This time it is a humble abode by the firepit, and I find the humility enlightening. Next it shall be a gilded mansion-palace, to teach the value of pride. Come, sit. Take off your armor, it's unbearable in this heat."
06[20:42] * Demedais mutters a word under his breath to dismiss the armor, before nodding to Eudard.
[20:44] <Kotono> Eudard nods as well, slowly taking off his armor. It takes some time, each piece set down. As this goes on, the priest goes to stand in the center of the firepit and then sit cross-legged. "Helm is known as Asga in this realm," he begins. "Asga Ever-Eye amid these tribes and cities."
[20:46] <Demedais> "Asga Ever-Eye..." Demedais nods. "And your own god's name would be what amongst us?"
[20:46] <Kotono> As he removes his breastplate, sweaty forehead wiped with the back of his arm, "I see. It's a fitting name," Eudard adds.
[20:48] <Kotono> "Talos," he answers, "Talos the Destroyer, Storm Lord. To us...he is Zelanannt, the Eternal Cycle of Nature, the Storm of Wisdom and Growth." Taking off his headband and placing it onto the ground, "Helm once did me a great service. I believe the time to repay that service has come. If you have encountered Talos's servants before, you may be worried...but I will bring you no harm."
06[20:51] * Demedais nods. "Talos... That does make sense. If it is alright, could you tell me what assistance Helm rendered?"
[20:51] <Kotono> "Talos?" With a wary look, "I've heard of his worship...ugh..." Shaking his head at that, Eudard listens on.
[20:56] <Kotono> "Fifty years ago, our worship of Zelanannt was savage and destructive. The great mecca-city of Jansar was assaulted by the greatest warrior of Zelanannt. To oppose him, one of Asga Ever-eye's servants fought him."
[20:59] <Kotono> "The battle raged and Asga weathered the fury of Zelanannt's warrior. However, it ended not by death, but by disarming. The words spoken by that champion were of reconciliation, that he was only half of the answer."
06[21:02] * Demedais nods to this, letting the chieftain/priest continue his story without interruption.
[21:03] <Kotono> "As the two spoke amid the city, half destroyed and half saved, it is said that both Gods spoke to their chosen. For Zelanannt's, it was that pure destruction was not the true worship. For Asga's, it was that the priests of Zelanannt were being protected by Asga, and that it was his will that they put aside the eternal discord between them to aid this."
06[21:04] * Demedais thinks on this, eyeing the priest as he slowly nods to weigh the truthfulness of his words.
[21:05] <Kotono> "During this time, there was a great schism in the worship of Zelanannt, between those that accepted this new truth and those that opposed it. The battles were pitched...and grew worse, as a third God intervened. Palth's followers assaulted those who followed the new words of Talos and abduted those that held the old faith. For ten years a bitter war raged all through the jungles."
[21:06] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 did Helm really say that?
[21:06] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+18 did Helm really say that? --> [ 1d20=9 ]{27}
[21:06] <Demedais> "Palth... Would he be known as Torm amongst us?" Demedais asks.
[21:06] <Kotono> "Palth, is that-" Eudard is cut off, simply nodding to Demedais.
06[21:07] * Demedais looks to Eudard again sheepishly. "Sorry 'bout that."
[21:07] <Kotono> "That is correct. Palth is known as Torm in your regions. Palth has rately had a following in our jungles, he is shown as a secondary God next to Asga Ever-Eye and The Maimed Eternal. But he came in force during those years, in dreadful, terrible force."
[21:08] <Kotono> Eudard shakes his head, "It's no matter," he murmurs back to Demedais, listening.
06[21:09] * Demedais rubs his head, before nodding to the priest's words, wondering a bit.
[21:11] <Kotono> "Yet Asga was true to his word - his servants helped those that followed the new doctrine of Zelanannt and together they eventually drove the servants of Palth back. My father was one of the servants of Zelanannt that converted; he owed his life to Asga's unexpected kindness. Thus I owe my life as well."
[21:14] <Kotono> "I understand," Eudard listens well to that, "I also see all too well. Demedais...You think that is why we're here now?"
[21:15] <Demedais> "'Think' may not be the right word. 'Know' would be a bit more accurate. The story... matches up far too well to current situations to be coincidental. And offers its own parallels to back home... but that is there, and we are here. If we have been sent... then it is possible another attack is incoming." Demedais replies.
[21:16] <Kotono> "It may be, or perhaps you came here for what I have been through, or others. My struggle is not the only one to have happened; but I will be glad to give you any wisdom I can."
[21:20] <Kotono> "It is," Eudard agrees with Demedais, "Torm..." With a long sigh from his mouth, "What can you tell us then?"
[21:21] <Demedais> "This is also true." Demedais concedes, before letting Eudard speak, ready to listen.
[21:23] <Kotono> "Tell me then...why has your God sent you here? Is this the truth you seek, about the story of the three Gods in the jungle? But you said you seek peace and understanding."
06[21:25] * Demedais gestures to Eduard. "Do you wish to explain, or shall I?"
[21:27] <Kotono> "I will. I worshipped Torm - Palth - and his doctrine, even as it become madness and fury. Lost in this, Demedais, servant of Helm, has offered to help me. Helm brought us here, to your village."
[21:31] <Kotono> "I understand," His answer comes as he stands up, "I believe I understand now very well. I can help you take the first steps towards your own enlightenment. Demedais, you are walking this path with him as a friend?"
[21:32] <Demedais> "I will do so, yes." Demedais nods to this.
[21:32] <Kotono> "Eudard, please leave us for a brief time. I must talk to Demedais alone."
[21:34] <Kotono> Eudard stands, clad in only his underpadding and clothes now. "Very well," he says after a breath, walking out. Once he is gone, "I haven't introduced myself yet, have I?"
[21:39] <Demedais> "I'm afraid not, but I didn't want to interrupt the story." Demedais grins slightly.
[21:41] <Kotono> "Zazna," He offers a hand, "This is the custom in your region? I have not been outside the jungle in a long time."
06[21:43] * Demedais accepts the hand. "It is, but I tend to shake hands or bow, whichever feels more proper."
[21:45] <Kotono> His grip is strong and nearly crushing. "During the unheaval fifty years ago, the servants of Asga converted an old temple to Zelanannt into a spiritual retreat, a place where the desire for fury and hatred could be begun to be mastered. Servants of Asga would take them to it and be their guides as they attempted to put the past behind them."
[21:46] <Demedais> "I see..." Demedais nods. "This would indeed be useful."
[21:55] <Kotono> "It's several day's journey from here and it's not the safest journey. Predators of the jungle are known to interfere with those who make the trip. Once there, your role will be to aid Eudard as he undergoes the trial there and tries to master the anger he spoke of."
[21:56] <Demedais> "I see. Should I know of this trial before, or will it be evident once I reach there?" Demedais nods.
[22:01] <Kotono> "It is a trial of fury and restraint. What will be seen depends on Eudard. You must allow him to make his own choices there; help him but he must stand on his own."
[22:02] <Demedais> "Understood." Demedais nods. "And of the beasts on the way?"
[22:04] <Kotono> "Great worms, giant frogs, dire gorillas, fierce reptilian hunters and behemoths, giant birds of prey." Listing them all, "As well as poisons. Further, wearing your armor in that heat is impossible unless you are blessed with the right magic. You'll collapse within a few hours."
06[22:08] * Demedais nods. "I was not weathered terribly by the heat thanks to my armor, but I suspect Eudard was flagging." A pause at this. "This will help me prepare my magics for the coming days, then. Thank you for that."
[22:13] <Demedais> "Is there anything else I should know of this journey?" he asks after a moment.
[22:19] <Kotono> "Food will be a problem, though I'll have some prepared for you. Avoid the local food, I'd recommend only eating meat sinc eotherwise chancing a fruit is likely to get you poisoned. The track to the temple is along this river; the river water is safe to drink as long as it's not at one of the slower moving pools. In those pools flesh eating fish reside and it's dangerous to get water. Standing water is rarely clean or safe."
06[22:22] * Demedais nods to this. "Any additional food would be appreciated; I will keep that in mind regarding the water."
[22:28] <Kotono> "It'll be prepared. We have suitable clothes if you need them instead of your armor," He goes on, "Otherwise, simply survive and travel well to the temple."
[22:31] <Demedais> "I think my armor should be sufficent in warding off the heat, though if you have some cloth I could use for a headwrap to keep sweat from my face, that would be appreciated." Demedais nods. "I thank you for such help."
[22:32] <Kotono> "We owe Asga much," Zazna says, "To to save us and defend us from Palth. It will be done. Will you stay the night or leave immediately?"
06[22:34] * Demedais muses. "I will let Eudard decide that." he says finally. "This is his journey, his choice."
[22:43] <Kotono> "Go ahead to him," Zazna says. "He should be outside there, unless he went wandering."
06[22:50] * Demedais nods to this. "Thank you, Zazna." With this, he steps outside to look for Eudard.
[22:53] <Kotono> Eudard has gone back to the riverbank, watching it flow on by. "How was it," He asks on Demedais coming to him.
[22:55] <Demedais> "It was fine. The journey will be a several-day one, possibly faster on horseback but that has its own risks." Demedais replies. "We have the option of leaving today or preparing today and leaving tomorrow morning. Either way, he - Zazna - will give us food for the trip, though that ring I gave you should kick in soon."

[Corwin]

[19:58] <Demedais> [15:46] <@Kotono> "Go ahead to him," Zazna says. "He should be outside there, unless he went wandering."
[19:58] <Demedais> [15:52] * Demedais nods to this. "Thank you, Zazna." With this, he steps outside to look for Eudard.
[19:58] <Demedais> [15:55] <@Kotono> Eudard has gone back to the riverbank, watching it flow on by. "How was it," He asks on Demedais coming to him.
[19:58] <Demedais> [15:58] <Demedais> "It was fine. The journey will be a several-day one, possibly faster on horseback but that has its own risks." Demedais replies. "We have the option of leaving today or preparing today and leaving tomorrow morning. Either way, he - Zazna - will give us food for the trip, though that ring I gave you should kick in soon."
03[19:59] * Kolunch is now known as Kotono
[20:00] <Kotono> "Let's go now," Eudard watches the raging river, sending occasional flicks of water upward in it's frothy, fast movements. "What are the dangers, though?
[20:00] <Kotono> "
[20:02] <Demedais> "Multiple beasts live in the jungle between here and our destination, and there are numerous poisonous plants, as well." Demedais says. "It will likely take some time for Zazna to prepare the food, however, which will be needed for the first set of days."
[20:05] <Kotono> "Yeah." Shuffling a moment and then cleaning his brow off, the humility staggering, "Do you know where this place actually is? I don't believe there are any forests like this in Malmuth or anywhere else I can think of.
[20:05] <Kotono> "
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[20:08] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 do I?
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[20:08] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 do I?
[20:08] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+1 do I? --> [ 1d20=20 ]{21}
[20:12] <Demedais> "...nnnnorth of Kelara, if I remember correctly." Demedais finally replies after a bit of thought. "Disease plagues the area so people don't often come this way. Well, that and all the monsters, confusing terrain, and all that. The main issue is the monsters, as the river's our guide and the diseases shouldn't be an issue."
[20:13] <Demedais> "Took me a while to remember, but I think that's right. The geography classes were bad about anything beyond the Desert Fiefdoms." he concludes with a slight nod.
[20:14] <Kotono> "For us, anything past old Malmuth was foreign," Cracking a slight smile, "Let alone a desert or a forest like this. Not that they lingered long for us anyway..." Stopping amoment to kneel and get a drink of water, "Does this jungle go on forever, or is there something past it?"
[20:14] <Demedais> "Uh." Demedais pauses at this, too.
[20:16] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 ahaha?
[20:16] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+1 ahaha? --> [ 1d20=6 ]{7}
06[20:18] * Demedais shakes his head after a time. "I think I've heard something, but I'm drawing a blank. We could ask Zazna."
[20:22] <Kotono> "After we go and return, perhaps. What I'm more concerned about is getting back. Will we be whisked back when we're done," With a long gaze at Demedais, "I don't savor months of travel in this."
[20:22] <Demedais> "I do not know." Demedais replies evenly. "If we're to return back manually, there is likely something else that calls our duty on the way."
[20:23] <Kotono> "Mmm. Well then, cross that bridge when we come to it." Rising up from his drink, "You said you'd have magic to help mitigate this?"
[20:25] <Demedais> "Help mitigate what?" Demedais asks. "During our first night's rest, I will pray for magics to ensure that we are not badly affected by the toxins, and enough to prepare for fighting through to the destination point, if that is what you mean."
[20:27] <Kotono> "The heat," Eudard grimaces. "It's roasting here and far too wet in the air."
06[20:28] * Demedais nods. "I can also prepare spells that will help us endure the elements, though that will also take till tomorrow. If this will prove a hinderance, it would probably benefit us to stay with friends until we are prepared to strike out."
[20:29] <Kotono> "I can endure a half day's travel," Eudard says confidently, "But the sooner we reach this temple the better by far."
[20:29] <Demedais> "Very well. It may benefit you to keep your armor off until then, at least."
[20:34] <Kotono> "Yes." At that Eudard thinks and then...OOC - Do you want to skip ahead a bit, Deme?
[20:34] <Demedais> OOC: Sure, I guess.
[20:38] <Kotono> It takes an hour and some change for food to be gotten. Zazna stands with you at teh bank of the river, "So you are departing now?" He asks, "Zelanannt watch over your trip."
06[20:39] * Demedais nods. "It was decided that this would be the best route. We thank you for your hospitality, Zazna; hopefully will will be able to return with a tale of success. If we are called away after our duties are done here, however, I wish you and your people prosperity and strength in the future." A pause, before; "How do your people say goodbye?"
[20:42] <Kotono> "By saying, 'Until we meet again.' It's easy to end your life in this endless forest, even for us. We prefer to deny that aspect and believe that another meeting is just ahead in the next sunrise."
[20:42] <Kotono> "Until we meet again, then," Eudard adds.
[20:42] <Demedais> "I have no objection to this. Until we meet again, Zazna." Demedais nods, with a slight bow.
[20:43] <Kotono> As that is done, "Horses or no?" Eudard asks quietly.
06[20:43] * Demedais muses, before looking to Zazna. "Would riding our horses alongside the riverbed be a way to save time or more of a danger to them?"
[20:45] <Kotono> "It would be easier going, but be wary. Quick sand exists, which if you stumble into it, you'll sink down into it before you know what's happened and never be seen again."
06[20:46] * Demedais nods. "Then better to take it slow. Is there any defining visual characteristic of such sand?"
[20:48] <Kotono> "Quicksand can support twigs and branches, but will never have true greenery growing on it. Further, it will look sandy and never have animal tracks on it, ro if it does, they end abruptly."
06[20:48] * Demedais nods. "Very well. I shall keep vigilant for this, then."
[20:51] <Kotono> "Good travel to you," Zazna bids again. "Be wary of it and all other hazards."
06[20:51] * Demedais nods. "Thank you, Zazna." With that, he waves, before leading the way!
[20:56] <Kotono> Thus the two begin to travel! The going is indeed rough, soon having left the village behind! With only a river to guide you, the pair proceeds in. There is a multitude of colorful flowers, plants and even fruits. Strange animals and bugs can be glimpsed at times, all in the overwhelming heat. There is a brief rainshower - surely overwhelming above, coming down as a steady rain by the time it reaches the bottom. Thunder and lightning ca
[20:56] <Kotono> coming down as a steady rain by the time it reaches the bottom. Thunder and lightning can be heard during it, but it only lasts about a half hour. (More)
[20:57] <Kotono> As the afternoon wears on, the rain past...OOC - Deme, could you make a spot check?
[20:59] <Demedais> roll 1d20+25
[20:59] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+25 --> [ 1d20=4 ]{29}
[21:00] <Kotono> As you travel and 'dry off' from the storm, something that's more like staying wet with all the humidity, Demedais notices something. Off to the side a bit, int he deep growth, some vines have been disturbed. A big old animal footprint is there - something rather large and with three deep claws that dig into the earth. It looks very fresh.
06[21:01] * Demedais pauses slightly, drawing his sword slowly as he motions for Eudard to stop, before gesturing to the footprint.
[21:05] <Kotono> Eudard narrows his eyes at it, drawing his own sword as well. The whisper of drawn steel is unnatural here, like a guttral cry of silent death to the vibrant life around you. He readies his shield as well, armorless otherwise. His eyes sweep about.
[21:07] <Kotono> Despite this, nothing seems to immediately happen. The jungle's noises continue as they do, the heat ever present and every wet. Eudard looks around a little more, a questioning look shot to Demedais.
06[21:07] * Demedais looks up into the deep growth, trying to see if he can spot whatever made the track.
[21:10] <Kotono> Demedais' eyes are good. He catches something in the undergrowth- a ripple of something green-gray, moving swiftly, glimpsed. Something scaly. And thena nother, going in the opposite direction! Another, a third and a forth perhaps, all just hinted at far away in the foliage.
06[21:11] * Demedais blinks. "Lizardlike. Keep far away from the bushes, keep your eye on them, and slowly advance forward." he hisses, before glancing around the two quickly to ensure nothing else is approaching them and that this is the only visible threat.
[21:14] <Kotono> As Demedais looks back, he sees another flash of something far behind! In the sil-wait, what? The noise around them seems to be slackening off rather abruptly. The din of the river is starting to dominate, animal noises finding some reason or another to pick up shop and shut up. You got ab etter glimpsea t the one behind - something big and something scaly.  Forearm claws, looking quite sharp as well.
[21:20] <Demedais> "Ah, hell, a flanking attempt." Demedais hisses, before uttering a short prayer to Helm to guide his hand in this fight. OOC: Divine Favor, +1 to attack/weapon rolls for 1 minute, self.
[21:21] <Kotono> OOC: To clarify now - you're about thirty feet from the river. The things you're seeing are generally 40 to 6 0 feet away.
[21:22] <Demedais> OOC: Ah. And the positions are some in the bushes (indeterminate number) and one on the path we just came on in, then?
[21:22] <Kotono> OOC: Yes, that you've glimpsed.
[21:22] <Demedais> OOC: Right.
[21:23] <Kotono> Demedais invokes his God's favor into himself! "Stay close, I can protect us," Eudard whispers back, even as it begins! Three of them - giant lizards, quite large! They mvoe with lethal speed to pounce on you, big jaws of teeth and sharp claws as they assault! From behind you, you can see two more, also coming your way at once with coordination! OOC - You're prepared but they're coming at you. Let's do the fabled thing called INITIATIVE
[21:23] <Kotono> OOC - You're prepared but they're coming at you. Let's do the fabled thing called INITIATIVE.
06[21:24] * Demedais also takes a position angled between bushes and the path behind him. "We could try to escape without confrontation, bu- here they come!"
[21:24] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 woo Deme init
[21:24] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+1 woo Deme init --> [ 1d20=16 ]{17}
[21:24] <Kotono> "Helm guide us," Eudard grimaces, his sword and shield ready, "Giant lizards?"
[21:24] <Demedais> "Looks like it!"
[21:25] <Kotono> "Hunting us, eh?" Standing tall now, facing the ones that are coming from behind, "I won't fall to some overgrown reptiles!"
[21:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 Eudard
[21:25] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+6 Eudard --> [ 1d20=7 ]{13}
[21:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 L1
[21:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 L2
[21:25] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+2 L1 --> [ 1d20=5 ]{7}
[21:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 L3
[21:25] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+2 L2 --> [ 1d20=18 ]{20}
[21:25] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+2 L3 --> [ 1d20=16 ]{18}
[21:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 L4
[21:25] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+2 L4 --> [ 1d20=2 ]{4}
[21:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 L5
[21:25] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+2 L5 --> [ 1d20=15 ]{17}
[21:25] <Demedais> "Agreed. May Helm guide us as we show them our skill!"
03[21:26] * Kotono changes topic to 'L2>L3>Demedais=L5>Eudard>L1>L4'
[21:28] <Kotono> The second of the three coming from the side races towards Demedais with lethal speed! It pounces on him head on, trying to rip and tear him apart!
[21:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[21:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[21:29] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+14 --> [ 1d20=11 ]{25}
[21:29] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+14 --> [ 1d20=6 ]{20}
[21:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:29] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=1 ]{10}
[21:29] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=16 ]{25}
[21:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:29] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=14 ]{23}
[21:29] <Kotono> OC - AC?
[21:29] <Demedais> OOC: 30
[21:31] <Kotono> Demedais brings his defenses up just in time, both claws deflected away with his sword! Talons clatter against his armor, a bite dodged outright! The third one of the three on the side circles around a bit, needing to manuver to get to Demedais's side, only able to manage one restrained clawing!
[21:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[21:31] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=2 ]{14}
[21:31] <Kotono> This one is defeated as well, Demedais whirling to the side to deflect the claw back upwards, sending it's arm flailing into the air! OOC - Deme.
06[21:33] * Demedais nods slightly, before focusing and unleashing a torrent of attacks on the one brave enough to try to pounce on him!
[21:33] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 (+1 Divine Favor, +1 Haste, -6 PA)
[21:33] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16 (+1 Divine Favor, +1 Haste, -6 PA)
[21:33] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+16 (+1 Divine Favor, +1 Haste, -6 PA) --> [ 1d20=3 ]{19}
[21:33] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+16 (+1 Divine Favor, +1 Haste, -6 PA) --> [ 1d20=8 ]{24}
[21:33] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 (+1 Divine Favor, +1 Haste, -6 PA)
[21:33] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+11 (+1 Divine Favor, +1 Haste, -6 PA) --> [ 1d20=20 ]{31}
[21:33] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6 (+1 Divine Favor, +1 Haste, -6 PA)
[21:33] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+6 (+1 Divine Favor, +1 Haste, -6 PA) --> [ 1d20=6 ]{12}
[21:33] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 crit check
[21:33] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+11 crit check --> [ 1d20=16 ]{27}
[21:34] <Kotono> OOC - Two hits and a crit.
[21:34] <Demedais> roll 8d8+60
[21:34] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 8d8+60 --> [ 8d8=26 ]{86}
[21:34] <Kotono> OOC - You can cleave to the other one if you want.
03[21:34] * Kotono changes topic to 'L3>Demedais=L5>Eudard>L1>L4'
[21:35] <Kotono> OOC - The crit is the one that did him in since it was the last blow.
[21:35] <Demedais> OOC: Kay.
[21:35] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 cleaaave
[21:35] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+11 cleaaave --> [ 1d20=3 ]{14}
[21:39] <Kotono> Demedais stabs and slices into the the lizard on him, cutting it's guts out! As it falsl he whips his sword over to the next one, but misses it just barely! Meanwhile, one of the rear ones pounces onto Eudard, sprinting ahead!
[21:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[21:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[21:39] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+14 --> [ 1d20=18 ]{32}
[21:39] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+14 --> [ 1d20=8 ]{22}
[21:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:39] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=10 ]{19}
[21:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:39] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=11 ]{20}
[21:39] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=13 ]{22}
[21:40] <Kotono> roll 4d6+10+2d4+4+1d8+2
[21:40] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 4d6+10+2d4+4+1d8+2 --> [ 4d6=16 2d4=4 1d8=7 ]{43}
[21:42] <Kotono> The creature is on Eudard hard! It rips into hsi exposed tendons and arms, pushing aside his defending shield as it bites down, getting his shoulder and just missing his neck! In retort, Eudard concentrates a moment, a faint aura surrounding him and Demedais! "Begone!" he says, striking out at his attacker! OOC +4 sacred bonus to AC for you as long as you stay within 20ft of Eudard.
[21:42] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
[21:42] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[21:42] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+16 --> [ 1d20=19 ]{35}
[21:42] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+11 --> [ 1d20=1 ]{12}
[21:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 crit?
[21:43] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+16 crit? --> [ 1d20=7 ]{23}
[21:43] <Kotono> roll 2d8+10 and -1 con
[21:43] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 2d8+10 and -1 con --> [ 2d8=4 ]{14}
[21:45] <Kotono> He manages a defensive slash into the lizard, while putting his own powers into protecting himself and Demedais! The first is already approaching, leaping over the fallen one and going right into Demedais!
[21:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[21:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[21:45] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+14 --> [ 1d20=2 ]{16}
[21:45] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+14 --> [ 1d20=2 ]{16}
[21:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[21:45] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=7 ]{16}
[21:45] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=1 ]{10}
[21:45] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=7 ]{16}
[21:46] <Kotono> Yet Demedais stands his ground, armor stopping the bite and sword holding it's claws at bay! With a struggle he pushes the lizard slightly back, giving himself a slight bit of breathing room!  The second of the flankers approaches, going to Eudard's side and manuveringa s well, managing only one attack like it's kin!
[21:46] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[21:46] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=15 ]{27}
[21:46] <Kotono> roll 2d6+5
[21:46] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 2d6+5 --> [ 2d6=10 ]{15}
[21:49] <Kotono> Rip! Eudard's leg is torn by the claw, the lizard going low to draw more blood! The survivor on Demedais snarls at it goes for him, pressing himb ack!
[21:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[21:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[21:49] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=15 ]{27}
[21:49] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=11 ]{23}
[21:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[21:49] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=18 ]{25}
[21:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[21:49] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=18 ]{25}
[21:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[21:49] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=5 ]{12}
[21:49] <Demedais> OOC: AC 35 thanks to Eudard.
[21:49] <Kotono> Yet each blow is defeated in detail by the paladin, fending off every attack with patience and defensive skill with his blade, shield and armor! OOC - Deme.
06[21:55] * Demedais grimaces, before moving to tap Eudard on the shoulder with a short prayer. "This should help." With that, he focuses his own strength for unleashing next round! OOC: 28 healed to Eudard.. Kensai Focus, DC 15.
[21:56] <Kotono> Thus Demedais focuses in his will and energy! The one that had ravaged Eudard attempts the feat again, trying to push past his defenses!
[21:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[21:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[21:56] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=15 ]{27}
[21:56] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=13 ]{25}
[21:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[21:56] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=6 ]{13}
[21:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[21:56] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=2 ]{9}
[21:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[21:56] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=6 ]{13}
[21:57] <Kotono> roll 2d6+10
[21:57] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 2d6+10 --> [ 2d6=7 ]{17}
[21:59] <Kotono> The creature's greater attacks are foiled, but it's claws still undo some of the healing Demedas provided! Eudard's shield glows white, even as he continues to battle the one on him!
[21:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
[21:59] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+16 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{25}
[21:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[21:59] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+11 --> [ 1d20=14 ]{25}
[22:00] <Kotono> roll 2d8+12 -2 con
[22:00] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 2d8+12 -2 con --> [ 2d8=4 ]{16}
[22:07] <Kotono> Eudard manages tos trike twice more, the lizard's wounds and skin withering under the wounding sword's cuts! The first is battling on top of his fallen kin, trying to rip Demedais apart again!
[22:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[22:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[22:07] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=19 ]{31}
[22:07] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{21}
[22:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[22:07] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=13 ]{22}
[22:07] <Kotono> OOC -2
[22:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[22:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[22:07] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=13 ]{20}
[22:07] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=17 ]{24}
[22:08] <Kotono> One claw comes close, but the sacred aura surrounding Demedais glows and pushes the blow away from the paladin's face! Meanwhile, the other one on Eudard isf ully positioned, going in after him, trying to rend him!
[22:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[22:08] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=19 ]{31}
[22:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[22:08] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=20 ]{32}
[22:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 crit?
[22:08] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+12 crit? --> [ 1d20=16 ]{28}
[22:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[22:08] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=14 ]{21}
[22:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[22:08] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{16}
[22:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[22:08] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{16}
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 6d6+15
[22:09] <Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 6d6+15 --> [ 6d6=23 ]{38}
[22:12] <Kotono> Eudard defends himself, but the lizard's assault is unreal in it's fear intensity! Each claw rips into him, leaving Eudard staggering! "They're...overwhelming!" he gasps and coughs, a few flecks of blood coming from his mouth! Meanwhile, the third one on Demedais backs up openly from him! OOC - Youc an AoO it if you like.
06[22:15] * Demedais grunts and quickly slashes at the creature's face, aiming to try and sever its head!
[22:15] <Demedais> roll 1d20+20 (+1 Haste +1 DF +4 Kensai -5 PA)
[22:15] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 1d20+20 (+1 Haste +1 DF +4 Kensai -5 PA) --> [ 1d20=15 ]{35}
[22:16] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[22:17] <Demedais> roll 2d6+17 sorry, spacing out a bit
[22:17] <Rei-chan> Demedais rolled : 2d6+17 sorry, spacing out a bit --> [ 2d6=7 ]{24}
[22:17] <Demedais> OOC: -10.
[22:19] <Kotono> Taking this chance, Demedais rips it even as it retreats backwards, defensively going! OOC - Deme, you're up.

[Corwin]

[19:57] <Kotono> OOC: The third one on you have fallen back and away, like it's retreating. L1 is on you. L5 and L4 are on Eudard.
[19:57] <Demedais> OOC: And I'm just like five feet from Edward, right?
[19:59] <Kotono> OOC: Yes.
[20:01] <Demedais> OOC: One final question. how injured do the ones on Eudard look?
[20:02] <Kotono> OOC: Somewhat. Eudard's wounded one up, both are in 5ft step range. So moderately on one.
[20:04] <Kotono> OOC: Do note that the 5th one is the one that's wounded, and that it's also going at the same time as you.
06[20:04] * Demedais grimaces at the situation, before shifting himself over to move right in front of Eudard! "Heal yourself and move back, Eudard!" With that, he goes after the somewhat faster one of the two, hoping to kill it before any more harm results!
[20:04] <Demedais> OOC: ...Oh. Well, mrf. That kinda fucks timing up a bit.
[20:07] <Demedais> OOC: Action still stands. L5 is the one being targeted.
[20:07] <Kotono> OOC: Go for it.
[20:10] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 (+1 Haste, +4 Law Devotion, -6 PA)
[20:10] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 (+1 Haste, +4 Law Devotion, -6 PA)
[20:10] <Demedais> roll Hatbot summon
03[20:10] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@cpe-66-25-141-28.austin.res.rr.com) has joined #terrorofdunes
[20:10] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 (+1 Haste, +4 Law Devotion, -6 PA)
06[20:10] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 (+1 Haste, +4 Law Devotion, -6 PA) and gets 22." [1d20=4]
[20:10] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 (+1 Haste, +4 Law Devotion, -6 PA)
06[20:11] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 (+1 Haste, +4 Law Devotion, -6 PA) and gets 38." [1d20=20]
03[20:11] * Celenu (WinNT@user-5440a2a8.wfd76a.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #terrorofdunes
[20:11] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 (+1 Haste, +4 Law Devotion, -6 PA) crit check
06[20:11] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 (+1 Haste, +4 Law Devotion, -6 PA) crit check and gets 29." [1d20=11]
[20:11] <Demedais> OOC: How many hits?
[20:11] <Demedais> OOC (hoping for cleave)
[20:11] <Kotono> OOC - Hit and a crit so far. Roll that damage?
[20:12] <Demedais> roll 6d6+60
06[20:12] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 6d6+60 and gets 77." [6d6=3, 1, 1, 5, 1, 6]
[20:12] <Kotono> OOC - Cleave, yeah.
03[20:12] * Kotono changes topic to 'L3>Demedais>Eudard>L1>L4'
[20:13] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 cleave
06[20:13] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 cleave and gets 20." [1d20=2]
[20:13] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13 cleave
06[20:13] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+13 cleave and gets 25." [1d20=12]
[20:13] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 cleave
06[20:13] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 cleave and gets 18." [1d20=10]
[20:13] <Kotono> OOC: Those last two are normal attacks? Anyway, two htis.
[20:13] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah.
[20:14] <Demedais> roll 4d6+40
06[20:14] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 4d6+40 and gets 55." [4d6=4, 2, 6, 3]
[20:14] <Kotono> The fifth of the lizards is ripped apart savagely, as the fourth is greviously injured! The fifth one, as it dies, unleashes it's hatred onto Demedais!
[20:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[20:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
06[20:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 and gets 23." [1d20=11]
06[20:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 and gets 19." [1d20=7]
[20:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[20:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[20:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
06[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 25." [1d20=18]
06[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 27." [1d20=20]
06[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 11." [1d20=4]
[20:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7 crit foreclaws?
06[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 crit foreclaws? and gets 16." [1d20=9]
[20:16] <Kotono> roll 1d4+3 fear
06[20:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+3 fear and gets 4." [1d4=1]
[20:17] <Kotono> Demedais has his arm grazed, a light passing cut as the lizards die around him! The other one on him, away from Deme's reach now that he moved, retreats back! A moment later, the one on Demedais follows suit! AS this happens, Eudard channels healing energy into himself! OOC - You can AoO the fleeing one you just hit.
[20:17] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 AOE, punks
06[20:17] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 AOE, punks and gets 24." [1d20=6]
[20:18] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[20:18] <Demedais> roll 2d6+20
06[20:18] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d6+20 and gets 27." [2d6=3, 4]
03[20:19] * Kotono changes topic to 'L3>Demedais>Eudard>L1'
[20:19] <Kotono> With a savage cut, Demedais eviserates this creature, leaving it to die on the ground besides Eudard! The surviving two are fleeing rapidly! Is it...over? Yet, even as they have a moment, the two can notice something. Soft but steady - the ground is starting to shake! OOC: Free action for the moment.
[20:23] <Demedais> "Let's get moving quickly. I don't like this shaking." Demedais says, before healing Eudard and looking around for the source of the tremors, if it's even a thing. OOC: Invisibility Purge -> Cure Serious Wounds.
[20:23] <Demedais> roll 3d8+5 no Saul
06[20:23] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 3d8+5 no Saul and gets 17." [3d8=2, 8, 2]
[20:24] <Kotono> OOC: 41/93.
06[20:25] * Demedais looks toward the forest quickly, trying to see if he can spot the source of the tremors as the two move along the riverbed.
[20:25] <Kotono> The tremors are coming from deeper in the forest. They seem to be getting closer - you can hear the sound of faraway underbrush being crushed and trampled. "Yes, let's. No need to throw our lives away fighting against dumb animals."
[20:25] <Kotono> OOC: Spot check
[20:25] <Kotono> ?
[20:25] <Demedais> roll 1d20+25
06[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+25 and gets 42." [1d20=17]
06[20:32] * Demedais hesitates for just a split second, before cursing in Draconic rather fluently about the convergence of events. "Let's get moving - the thing's huge!" he hisses before pushing Eudard forward!
[20:35] <Kotono> The two hurry along the river's path! Behind them they can hear it! As it reaches it, you can hear the chomping sound of flesh and bone being torn - a look b ack shows the dead lizards being chomped down most aggressively, it's mouth tearing them into huge chunks of food.
[20:36] <Demedais> "Well then." Demedais says after the glance back. "Let's... let's just keep moving, now shall we?"
[20:38] <Kotono> "Y-yes," Eudard grimaces, "I have new found respect for those townspeople. They must be skilled warriors to survive anything like that."
[20:39] <Demedais> "Indeed. Living here cannot be simple." Demedais nods.
06[20:39] * Demedais idly looks around a bit more at this to make sure nothing else is stalking them.
[20:44] <Kotono> Demedais doesn't see anything amiss at all. Well, besides the creature far behind them eating dead lizards.
06[20:47] * Demedais slows his pace a bit and taps Eudard on the back, healing him further. "At some point we will need to rest, and in this setting our chances will likely be few and far between. Keep your eyes out for a good spot."
[20:47] <Demedais> roll 3d8+5 converted MC:E
06[20:47] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 3d8+5 converted MC:E and gets 16." [3d8=6, 3, 2]
[20:48] <Kotono> OOC: 55/93.
[20:51] <Kotono> Thus the two advance on. After about another hour of travel, they find a small clearing. The river has a small stream that feeds into it here as well, making for easy, slower moving water.
06[20:52] * Demedais looks far ahead to try and see if there's any sign of the road being harder or easier on the other side.
[20:53] <Kotono> OOC: How far ahead?
[20:53] <Demedais> OOC: As far as I can see, pretty much.
[20:53] <Kotono> The path doesn't deviate in any obvious way within sight.
06[20:54] * Demedais nods slightly. "Continue on for now? I'm not sure how comfortable I am choosing an open field for a spot to camp, here."
[20:56] <Kotono> "Right," Eudard agrees. Thus the two continue on! OOC - Make a spot check, Deme?
[20:56] <Demedais> roll 1d20+25
06[20:56] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+25 and gets 40." [1d20=15]
[20:58] <Kotono> As dusk falls no, Demedais notices something. There's a faint but noticable path leading into the jungle. Following it with his eyes, he can see that it leads to what looks to be a hole in the ground - a sinkhole, or perhaps a cave entrance?
06[20:59] * Demedais considers. "That may be an option over there, though we should check for signs of habitation first. Agreed?
[21:00] <Kotono> "Yes," Eudard says, wiping his brow. The heat and humidity are still opressive, making the paladin sigh in relief. "At least nightfall is coming. If we can find a place to safely rest, it would do much to recover from this weather."
[21:00] <Demedais> "Aye." Demedais nods once. "Let's investigate the cave carefully, then." With that, he leads the way over toward the sinkhole. "I confess some worry that it's occupied, but."
[21:04] <Kotono> "Perhaps fortune will be on our side, Lady of Luck willing," As thet wo approach, Demedais can peer down in the dying light. It's a 15 foot drop down - there's a fairly large chasm in the earth here. You don't see anything immediately inside, but your field of vision into it is pretty poor. You need light and to go in to see better.
[21:07] <Demedais> "Perhaps." Demedais muses. "This would be safe, I think, assuming it's unoccupied." Pulling out a sunrod, he lights it, ties it to the end of a rope and lowers it down to make sure at least the basic descent is safe.
[21:08] <Kotono> The floor is wet - a few inches of water at the bottom. IT's a fairly large chasm, though you can see the walls. Nothing seems to be in there - just af ew ancient animal bones.
[21:09] <Demedais> "It might work, but it looks wet." Demedais grimaces a bit. "You hold the rope as I go down?" With that, he dismisses his armor and hands the rope to Eudard.
[21:10] <Kotono> OOC - What's your climb mod?
[21:11] <Demedais> OOC: Without the armor I have +7, all from strength.
[21:13] <Kotono> With a rope and a ring of feather falling, the climb down is a trivial affair no matter what. Reaching the bottom, Demedais can see that the center is wet. The outer edges of the cave are not, the water concentrated around the opening into the cave. The edges are dry.
[21:14] <Kotono> ""How is it?" Eudard calls down.
[21:15] <Demedais> "The only problem is ensuring we can get out in the morning." Demedais muses, looking around the cave to make sure there are no other entrances. "We probably can't drink the water in here - Zazna warned against standing water. Still, we can get some from the river."
[21:16] <Kotono> The walls are smooth and solid. No signs of anything else in the way of entrances.
[21:16] <Kotono> "Let me tie the rope to something out here," Eudard calls back down. "There shoudl be a solid tree within length."
[21:17] <Demedais> "Alright. Once you do, cover it as well as you can in vegetation. No reason to give us away." Demedais calls back up.
[21:17] <Kotono> This is done, Eudard then climbing down. He goes to one of the edges, unpacking a blanket. "I'm exhausted," he says, eaing some dried fruits. "By all the Gods, this jungle is draining."
06[21:19] * Demedais nods once. "Very well. I'll take first watch while you rest."
[21:20] <Kotono> roll 1d100
06[21:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 91." [1d100=91]
[21:20] <Kotono> roll 1d100+30
06[21:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100+30 and gets 118." [1d100=88]
[21:22] <Kotono> As Demedais falls into his watch, he begins to hear something. Something far away for now, but audible. It sounds like...words. He can just faintly hear them.
[21:22] <Kotono> Eudard is asleep by now, snoring very softly as he rests his wounded boyd.
[21:22] <Kotono> *body
06[21:23] * Demedais moves to the rope and climbs halfway up, attempting to hear the words more clearly.
[21:23] <Kotono> OOC: Listen check?
[21:23] <Demedais> roll 1d20+25
06[21:23] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+25 and gets 38." [1d20=13]
[21:24] <Kotono> Demedais doesn't understand the words being spoken, they're foreign to him. They sound lovely - it's a female voice singing them with incredible verve and energy to her voice. Demedais finds himself smiling as he listens, even though he doesn't understand.
03[21:26] * Celenu is now known as Alicia
06[21:26] * Demedais blinks, torn between going up and investigating and moving back down to wake Eudard. After a moment, he climbs up all the way to see if he can at least spot the source discreetly.
[21:28] <Kotono> As Demedais climbs up, he can hear itb etter. It's coming from the river. It's easy to see to the river, for a source of light is coming from it! A beautiful woman, flawless and pure beauty, walks along the water's top as she sings. Her long hair is like ghostly moonlight, her mouth open to sing.
06[21:30] * Demedais frowns a bit despite the music, attempting to recall if he's heard of anything like this.
[21:31] <Kotono> OOC: Do you have any ranks in K:N?
[21:31] <Demedais> OOC: 2!
[21:31] <Kotono> OOC: Go for it. K:N check.
[21:32] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3 yay for an int point to help.
06[21:32] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 yay for an int point to help. and gets 8." [1d20=5]
06[21:35] * Demedais grimaces, before simply settling himself in very carefully so that he can just barely keep an eye on the being while still being mostly in the hole.
[21:35] <Kotono> OOC: Make a hide check? +3 circumstance bonus.
[21:37] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4 erk.
06[21:37] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+4 erk. and gets 18." [1d20=14]
[21:37] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
06[21:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 and gets 22." [1d20=10]
[21:38] <Kotono> As she walks, her song changes. Her gaze turns the direction of Demedais, as you can now understand her words. She sings a song - a song of coming to her, revealing yourself! OOC - Make a will save?
[21:39] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 sheesh, not my day
06[21:39] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 sheesh, not my day and gets 31." [1d20=16]
[21:40] <Kotono> Demedais easily resists the compulsion! The words are pretty but have no hold on him at all! OOC - Your action if you like.
[21:41] <Demedais> Demedais sighs for just a moment before heaving himself up and drawing his sword, hitting it against the rocky part of the hold to try and wake Eudard.
[21:43] <Kotono> You can hear Eudard stirring a bit below at the sound as Demedais reveals himself! "Come here...lovely human," she carols. "You can see me?"
[21:44] <Demedais> "What are you?" Demedais says, sword still out.
[21:46] <Kotono> "I am Riyva, spirit of the Great Jungle River. She approaches, standing at the very edge of the river's water, as it laps against the the edge. "Most creatures cannot perceive me...only the powerful and spiritually attuned can. I won't hurt you...I'm just terribly lonely. Will you come and ease my lonliness for a little while?"
06[21:49] * Demedais looks at the being for a long moment, before gesturing. "Hold on just a moment." With that, he slips back down the rope!
[21:49] <Kotono> Eudard is just waking up as he goes down. He's rubbing his eyes with one hand, as his other has his sword readied. "What's going on," he asks, peering at Demedais.
[21:52] <Demedais> "Spirit ghost woman thing. Not sure if she's on the level or not, but gut is currently telling me no." Demedais says in a low voice. "I'd advise you don't try and peer over the crevasse, it's how she spotted me. Your best bet is to climb up the rope a bit and listen. I'll keep my voice loud." With that, he grabs the dimming sunrod and goes back up, approaching to about twenty feet of the woman.
[21:53] <Kotono> "Right," Eudard says as Demedais approaches. She really is gorgeous, with water blue skin and a body unhidden by conceits such as clothing. She smiles gently, "Are you wounded? I can help you with the water of this river."
[21:56] <Demedais> "Only slightly scratched; it will heal as I rest." Demedais reassures her with a smile. "I thank you for your concern, however. Tell me, how long have you been here?"
[21:57] <Kotono> "Forever. I am the river and the river is I." With a warm look as she goes to sit atop the water, as if it were solid, "This river flows across the jungle. AS the river exists, so do I. Once every ten cycles of the moon, I walk the river and sing the songs of life and growth, to bless the jungle-forest with continued abundance."
[21:58] <Demedais> "I see." Demedais says, smiling but carefully examining her face as he does so. "Tell me..."
[21:59] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 sense motives!
06[21:59] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 sense motives! and gets 26." [1d20=8]
[21:59] <Demedais> OOC: intended just to see if hostile/not.
[21:59] <Kotono> "Tell you what?" she asks right back.
[22:03] <Demedais> "I am a paladin, here on a missive from Helm." he says simply. "I was told to follow this river by a village elder; it is by this merit that I've been able to meet you. Tell me... do you know anything about the gnomes?" He puts his sword off to the side a bit, within easy reach but not in his hands.
[22:05] <Kotono> "A gnome?" She asks, "I have not seen one in countless moons...there was one who called himself a gnome once, long long ago. She was spiritually attuned, but was only interested in her God-King. I did not much like her."
[22:05] <Kotono> *herself. Hur.
[22:10] <Demedais> "Sounds about right, for them." Demedais says with a chuckle. "I do have to apologize for my caution. Last time I met a spirit of the water, the reaction was a bit less friendly. Got possessed by a elvish kid ghost - that was awkward, let me tell you." Demedais does one last check - using Detect Chaos.
[22:11] <Kotono> "Ah, you've met another of us?" With a friendly look there. "You must be sublimely gifted. Most of you can't even perceive me. You are indeed very strong. Where do you come from? You do not look like the people of the jungle."
06[22:13] * Demedais stands, nodding. "I'm from quite a long distance away - very far to the east, in a rather flat and less humid land. There is one other, who was slumbering; I'd like to invite him up, if I may. I think you'd enjoy talking to him as well."
[22:13] <Kotono> "If he can see me, yes," Nodding, "Oh, a conversation with two people would be so fortunate!"
06[22:15] * Demedais nods. "If he can't, maybe he can still hear you?" Still, with that, he goes over to the hole and calls Eudard up. "Check her for evil, but I'm pretty sure she's friendly." he says again, low. "Then again, can you see her? She's at the edge of the water."
[22:16] <Kotono> Eudard climbs up, peering ahead. With a confused look, "I don't see anything, just the dark river. I hadn't heard anything but your voice, either."
[22:16] <Demedais> "Drat." Demedais says, musing. "No singing, either?"
[22:16] <Kotono> "Nothing," Eudard agrees, looking at the river a second time, squinting his eyes.
06[22:17] * Demedais muses, glancing to the water again to make sure -he- isn't hallucinating this.
[22:17] <Kotono> Rivya is there, waiting and looking on hopefully.
06[22:18] * Demedais sighs. "Ah well. Just wave to the water and go ahead and go back to sleep. I'll keep watch up here, alright? You don't see anything evil when you look, right?"
[22:18] <Kotono> "Nothing," Eudard says again, waving towards the water and even trying to smile a bit, though the puzzled look on his face doesn't go away. "Whatever it is, be careful."
[22:19] <Demedais> "I will. She seems to be a water spirit, idly." Demedais nods.
[22:20] <Kotono> "A water spirit? Curious," Eudard says, "Anyway, good luck with...her?"
[22:20] <Demedais> "Yes." Demedais nods. "Rest well; I'll likely let you take your shift in a while. I've still got some energy left from that fight."
[22:22] <Kotono> "Will do," With that, Eudard climbs back down the rope.
06[22:23] * Demedais nods slightly and goes back over to Riyva. "My apologies. I was thinking that he, too, would be able to see you."
[22:25] <Kotono> With a slight sigh there as she hangs her head, "It's alright. Even one person is rare. Two would be like the moon and sun dancing together in the sky. But, you're here. That's enough." Smiling winsomely again, "Could you tell me about yourself or about other things away from the river? Anything will do!"

[Corwin]

[20:45] <Nikori> ------
[20:46] <Nikori> The three Mercs are found waiting at the agreed on place - Seira's inn. Each has a backpack readied, grinning amid themselves. "Seira!" Serge calls over the noise of the bar. "Ready?"
01[20:47] <Seira> "Pretty much!" Seira tells them with a grin of her own. "Let's use the back yard for this."
[20:48] <Nikori> As the four start to walk, "Ah man," Stretching his muscles out, "This has been a fun trip in a lot of ways, but I'm so ready to go home. You know we're gonna have fun when everyone sees us after thinking we were dead as zombies."
03[20:48] * Alicia (WinNT@user-5447705f.wfd89a.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #terrorofdunes
[20:48] <Nikori> Rods says this, as J just smiles.
01[20:49] <Seira> "As long as they don't try to exorcize you," Seira mutters, before holding out her hand. "Hang on, and we'll be going in five, four, three, two...."
[20:52] <Nikori> "Goodbye, Balmuria," Rods looks around as Seira begins to teleport, "Fun city...shame about striking out, Serge."
[20:52] <Nikori> "Bastard," Serge kicks Rods just as the four-group vanishes!( More)
[20:56] <Nikori> The terrain here is hilly. That's the first thing Seira identifies. Not really mountanous, though mountains to the west dominate the horizon if one cares to look. It's morningtime here, a road glimpsed to the south. The thre elook about, before J whoops! "Ah, fuck Mystra in the eye, the magic worked!" Grinning now and hugging Rods, "If this isn't home, then someone's done a pretty good job of spoofing it."
[20:57] <Nikori> Rods grins and pats J on the head. "Yeah, but let's get back to town THEN start celebrating. There's note ven anything to get drunk on in the middle of nowhere here."
01[20:58] <Seira> "I'm certain she'll take that as a compliment," Seira says, making sure her disguise is in order. "Lead on, then?"
[21:03] <Nikori> The road is quite a large one. It's well travelled, several wagons and bands of travellers passed. Most are open and friendly enough for the sort - which means while cautious, they aren't hostile. Every mile or two you come across established little shanties , with  8 guardsmen and horses on watch. They keep a careful watch on the travellers, but don't say much otherwise. As you pass the first group of them, "Don't worry, they're not go
[21:04] <Nikori> As you pass the first group of them, "Don't worry, they're not going to bother anyone unless you're stupid," Rods says. "They're like big security blankets for the travelers who aren't competent to protect themselves."
01[21:05] <Seira> "An interesting concept," Seira muses. "We don't really use that system too far from our towns, relying instead on patrols. But combining the two might be best."
[21:08] <Nikori> "Eh," Serge says as you walk along, the sky mostly clear and cloudless. "It's a really shitty job to have. The ones more than a few miles awya from town are expected to stay on station for weeks and months at a time without leave. The pay's good, though."
01[21:09] <Seira> "We can probably rotate the groups. It's not like it's difficult with the means we have at our disposal," Seira muses. "Even if I have to teleport the farthest ones myself once every two weeks."
[21:13] <Nikori> "You wouldn't have to pay them so much, either," J quips at that, "Anyway, we're only an hour or two from town now. Come on."
01[21:14] <Seira> "This is true!" Seira adds happily.
[21:19] <Nikori> As you approach, you see that it is a walled city. Walled and circular, quite large. It stands in a slight valley, tall walls giving ample cover to everything inside. To the north-south on the far side, a river flows, further defensibility addded. A few river barges and ships can be glimpsed as you approach. "Home sweet home," J sighs as you walk along, "Don't worry, it's easy to get in."
01[21:22] <Seira> "I'm counting on you, then," Seira agrees. "Feel free to show me around!"
[21:26] <Nikori> The gates are solid stone, pulled by vast chains that slide them aside. As you approach, "Good dwarven steel there," Serge adds. There's a few guards up front, one of them a scruffy looking man who eyes J. "Bleeding fires of Kossuth, you're alive? I heard you got blown up into dust, J!"
[21:27] <Nikori> "Robert?" Stopping to smile at him, "What the hell are you doing in the guard?"
[21:27] <Nikori> Serge shakes his head in the meanwhile, "C'mon, Seira. Let's not hang aorund," he says quietly.
06[21:28] * Seira shrugs, catching up to Serge. "Not a fan?" she asks just as quietly.
[21:29] <Nikori> "Hey, I needed the steady money since the merc work wasn't working out. No thanks to you," he says, though his humor doesn't really break as Seira gets out of earshot. Rods lingers. "No, J's old lover. Sure, they might be smiling, but a  gold coin says it's likely they won't be in a few minutes."
01[21:30] <Seira> "Sounds like a hassle. She won't start a fight, would she?"
[21:34] <Nikori> "I doubt it," Glancing back once as the three are in animted discussion, Serge leads on. The streets here are very wide - much wider than Balmuria streets. Buildings are several stories tall, usually at least 4 or 5. Clustered signs point to and adverise various things, be them on the ground level or higher up or even in long, tapering towers.  Rods leads to to the northwestern part of town, a quieter part. It's a touch run down here, b
[21:34] <Nikori> Rods leads to to the northwestern part of town, a quieter part. It's a touch run down here, but surprisingly peaceful. A non descript house is dark and closed up here, Serge checking the front door to it. He twists the handle four times and then backwards in a swift motion, popping the door open.
[21:34] <Nikori> *Serge
01[21:36] <Seira> "Doesn't look like anyone's been here, does it?" Seira wonders. "Do you three normally stay together while here?"
[21:38] <Nikori> "Yeah. Don't worry, it's supposed to be like this. I twouldn't e a safehouse if everyone was here besides us." Sunlight spills in, showing a dusty, forgotten room. A few bottles are littered about the floor, a set of beds on the far wall. There's also a fireplace and basic kitchen, the entire affair is one large room. "It pays to have a few safehouses in cities you're in a lot."
01[21:47] <Seira> "So where are you originally from?" Seira asks, stepping into the dusty room. "Still from the same country? It would help if I knew a bit about it, since I'll probably come to visit eventually."
[21:50] <Nikori> "Oh." Going to lie on one of the beds, "Make yourself at home. Anyway, I came from the dwarves as you might expect. I never really fit in there - I've had a bit of wanderlust and it's taken me to the surface and it's wide open freedom. As far as human lands go, this is reasonably close to being my home."
01[21:52] <Seira> "I can understand," Seira agrees. "I might one day to return to where I was born, but that would be because I want to make it my home in the future, not because I was reclaiming something of the past. Balmuria's pretty much my home in all that matters."
[21:53] <Nikori> "Yeah. This area's nice - it's out of the way lf the volcanos and earthquakes, mostly, but it's still hilly. I should probably swing home the next time I have a few months to kill, it's been awhile."
01[21:54] <Seira> "Where would your home be?"
[21:56] <Nikori> "To the west. There's dwarven settlements and caves in the mountains." Sitting up on the bed now, "I haven't been there in over a dozen years, I should go see how everyone is. I don't really fit in there, but hell, I still like the people."
01[21:56] <Seira> "And the drinks are great."
[21:58] <Nikori> "True again." As he laughs, Serge looks to the door, "You know, they shouldn't be very far behind." Rubbing his temples, "I swear, if I have to bail them out and pay a fine for public disruption or fighting..."
01[21:59] <Seira> "Does that happen often?" Seira asks, casting her own look at the door.
[22:01] <Nikori> "Not really. They're not that bad, just..." Rubbing his temple again, "Robert's kind of a sore subject for J. She's not very good with ex-es."
01[22:04] <Seira> "Can't say I understand," Seira says rather honestly. "So how long are we supposed to wait before we check with the local authorities?"
[22:05] <Nikori> "I give them a half hour, inc ase they got distracted with something unrelated and mundane." Lying back, "You said you wanted to study somewhere to teleport to? Feel free to use this place."
01[22:05] <Seira> "Sure. I'll find another place, too, just in case. But for now...." Seira trails off, making herself comfortable as she studies the layout of the large room.
[22:10] <Nikori> A half hour passes. Serge gets up and sighs, "Sorry, Seira. Idiots. I won't be long with any luck."
01[22:12] <Seira> "Oh no you don't," she says, rising from her meditative position. "I know how these stories go! First, a couple disappears. Then more and more people, and I get left all alone and everyone is now a zombie! I'm coming with you!"
[22:36] <Nikori> "How the hell did zombies become part of it," Stopping by the door, "I don't really mind if you come, but zombies?"
01[22:37] <Seira> "Our town was hit by zombies once! You never expect them, and suddenly, there they are!" Seira gestures with her arms for good measure.