234.4 The End of Esthan

[Corwin]

[22:42] <Kotono> Once out, Obreuth heads back itno the city. Only once through the gates, and to the gate guards, "Have pages gather Captain Alicia and her friend Antenora, as well as her famiilar. Have them meet us at the garrison." Once that's done and the two are a little more inside, "He can sit his unholy ass down while we decide what we're going to do. He came to us, no need to rush to a judgment now." With a vindictive smile after, "Some anxiety wil
[22:42] <Kotono> He came to us, no need to rush to a judgment now." With a vindictive smile after, "Some anxiety will do him some good. It'll build some character."
01[22:43] <Seira> "No it won't," Seira states. "Gnomes wrote something about devils being literally made of hate and something like that. I think they ignored all the free-floating stupidity, however."
[22:45] <Kotono> "It will at least make me feel better," With a smirk, Commander Oberuth leads Seira back to the garrison. The two are soon joined by Alicia, Antenora and Marie in the typical meeting room. Oberuth sits at the head of the table as he does, "Seira, explain the situation to them."
01[22:46] <Seira> "Right. There's a cornugon who is our sworn enemy but I've never met. He says he works for Esthan, and Esthan finally told him to commit suicide by attacking us. Instead, he wants us to jump Esthan along with him in a week and change. He'll supply the exact place and time in advance, and Esthan is said to be without most of his defenses."
[22:48] <Alicia> "Clever," Alicia mutters. "So either we kill Esthan and get him off the hook, or Esthan kills us and he can say it all went as planned. Or this is just another scheme by Esthan to try and point out how much more powerful he is than us, again."
[22:49] <Kotono> "Typical Baatezu scheming," Antenora's face is dour as she listens, "No matter which choice you choose, it looks like you're doing them a favor."
06[22:49] * Seira nods. "For what it matters, there is another option. All of the above scenarios have Esthan on the scene, and we may just have the means to kill him within our grasp, now."
[22:51] <Alicia> "I've improved some since my last encounter with him, as have the rest of us," Alicia acknowledges. "Still, it could be a trap nonetheless. Antenora, you mentioned that you can perceive deception, now?"
01[22:52] <Seira> "If it's a trap, I think we should go for it," Seira voices. "It all but ensures no attack on the city until that time, and if there is one and we're being sent to a diversion, we can have a capable force back and ready for it."
[22:53] <Kotono> "I can," Antenora look sto Alicia. "If you want me to, say the word."
[22:54] <Alicia> "Nothing ventured, nothing gained eh?" Alicia smirks. "I think it would be a good idea to have a chat with this Cornugon if possible to iron out the details and find out exactly what his agenda is."
[22:54] <Kotono> "Seira's logic has merit," Oberuth says as he listens to them, "Though a fake up and a punch to our main base while it happens is a possibility."
01[22:55] <Seira> "As I've said, those remaining behind would be extra ready and alert, since the window of attack would necessarily be so narrow," Seira reasons. "Also, we can't really ambush Esthan with our entire forces, so we'll have plenty to spare for guarding those living here."
[22:58] <Kotono> "Agreed with both. Go to him, ask him what you will nad accept the offer if no red flags come up," Oberuth says.
01[22:59] <Seira> "He basically got all cocky and said we work together until Esthan's been defeated, and then it's up in the air. Either we kill each other some day, or our paths never cross." Seira snorts. "He got stupid after that, and refused to abandon his plans for Prime while boasting of having a hand in every devilish dealings here Esthan's not involved in himself,
01[22:59] <Seira> so I think we'll go with his original offer and kill him at a later date, just as he wished."
06[23:01] * Alicia sighs. "The joy of dealing with fiends..."
01[23:01] <Seira> "However did they survive to be that old, right?"

[Corwin]

[19:38] <Blondezilla> <Alicia> "Nothing ventured, nothing gained eh?" Alicia smirks. "I think it would be a good idea to have a chat with this Cornugon if possible to iron out the details and find out exactly what his agenda is."
[19:38] <Blondezilla> > "Seira's logic has merit," Oberuth says as he listens to them, "Though a fake up and a punch to our main base while it happens is a possibility."
[19:38] <Blondezilla> <Seira> "As I've said, those remaining behind would be extra ready and alert, since the window of attack would necessarily be so narrow," Seira reasons. "Also, we can't really ambush Esthan with our entire forces, so we'll have plenty to spare for guarding those living here."
[19:38] <Blondezilla> > "Agreed with both. Go to him, ask him what you will nad accept the offer if no red flags come up," Oberuth says.
[19:38] <Blondezilla> <Seira> "He basically got all cocky and said we work together until Esthan's been defeated, and then it's up in the air. Either we kill each other some day, or our paths never cross." Seira snorts. "He got stupid after that, and refused to abandon his plans for Prime while boasting of having a hand in every devilish dealings here Esthan's not involved in himself,
[19:38] <Blondezilla> <Seira> so I think we'll go with his original offer and kill him at a later date, just as he wished."
[19:38] <Blondezilla> * Alicia sighs. "The joy of dealing with fiends..."
[19:38] <Blondezilla> <Seira> "However did they survive to be that old, right?"
[19:39] <Blondezilla> "Let's get it over with," Antenora stands up, "Let's go?"
02[19:39] * Shizuru (~corwin@bzq-79-179-135-140.red.bezeqint.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
06[19:40] * Alicia nods, standing up. "Marie, you might as well just go home and keep an eye on things there, just in case this is a distraction?" she suggests to her familiar, who agreeably flutters off back home.
01[19:40] <Seira> "He might kind of run away if we keep on bringing more and more people," Seira says hesitantly. "For all his bravado, he doesn't seem like a particularly brave cornugon."
[19:41] <Alicia> "Well, why don't just you and Antenora go at least, then?" Alicia allows. "Just make sure to ask him some probing questions so she can confirm any deception on his part?"
01[19:42] <Seira> "Should work," Seira agrees. "As long as we don't tip him off. Having their side think they've lured us into a trap is one of the better outcomes."
[19:44] <Alicia> "I'll wait nearby but not close enough to draw notice?" Alicia offers.
01[19:45] <Seira> "Sounds reasonable."
[19:47] <Blondezilla> Thus the group heads out to the southern gate. The city is lively but unremarkable, no signs of the diabolical horror that waits just outside of town...
06[19:48] * Alicia casts message so she can stay in contact with Seira and Antenora, before stopping to wait at the edge of the scattered housing to the Southeast of the city. "Good luck," she wishes.
01[19:49] <Seira> "Can't hurt to have it on our side," Seira agrees, leading the way to the house the devil had occupied.
[19:51] <Blondezilla> Just outside, Antenora stops. "I'll activate the spell now. It lasts about a minute and a half." Antenora's eyes close shut, "I can activate it and re-active it at will, though I don't know if he'd be sharp enough to notice it...but it's likely he can, being a commanding upper rank devil."
01[19:52] <Seira> "Not to mention paranoid due to circumnstance."
[19:53] <Blondezilla> "Yes." With that, Antenora removes her hair ribbon and looks to Seira, "Go ahead. Let me go in second."
06[19:54] * Seira needs no other invitation to go inside.
[19:54] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+15
06[19:54] * Hatbot --> "Blondezilla rolls 1d20+15 and gets 35." [1d20=20]
[19:56] <Blondezilla> Seira and the Antenora enter! The horned devil is still pacing by the fireplace, eyes like burning souls in Hell glaring at the two. He takes a long look at Antenora, and with a snarling hiss that sends the scent of brimstone washing over you, "Traitor."
06[19:56] * Seira rolls her eyes. "Our new friend, Antenora. Antenora, this is... actually, what was your name?"
[20:02] <Blondezilla> "Armanzas," With a rumble, the two outsiders lock eyes. Antenora smiles a little, "Antenora is close enough."
01[20:05] <Seira> "Right, right. Well, if you want to see a model of a successful outsider doing right for herself and following the winning team, you can look all you want," Seira says. "It's okay if you want to give it a try, too. I usually only offer this to fiends about to die pointlessly, but why not make an exception now?"
[20:06] <Blondezilla> "Enough foolishness!" Snapping as he turns back to Seira, "What is your answer? I grow restless waiting on it!"
01[20:08] <Seira> "The Guard would like to have a formal contract of some sort," Seira tells him in response. "An outline of dos and don'ts, so to speak, and of our responsibilities under our agreement. Go ahead and detail the terms?"
[20:21] <Blondezilla> Snapping his fingers, a bit of paper flies from the rubble and lands in his hand. "Here."
[20:21] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+6
06[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Blondezilla rolls 1d20+6 and gets 13." [1d20=7]
[20:21] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+15
06[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Blondezilla rolls 1d20+15 and gets 25." [1d20=10]
06[20:22] * Seira stretches out her own to take it, hopefully also to focus the devil on her and away from Antenora.
[20:24] <Blondezilla> The paper is given to Seira. Meanwhile, Antenora is quiet...
06[20:25] * Seira glances at it with her magical senses, only reading if it seems clean.
[20:26] <Blondezilla> Seira does not detect any magic.
06[20:27] * Seira reads the contract, so helpfully drafted for their convenience.
[20:34] <Blondezilla> It's full of legalese and the lik. It basically outlines things - not to mess with each other, not to betray each other, not to use any information gained here for scrying or backstabbing, that sort of thing. It would take a bit of time and analysis to really get into, since it's so trenched in fancy devil wordwork.
06[20:36] * Seira just looks for the expiration date signing such a contract would have on the truce between them, from which point it would be safe to kill Armanzas. As well as who the signatories are, naturally.
[20:39] <Blondezilla> Until Esthan is dead and all parties have parted safely, or until the attempt fails.
01[20:41] <Seira> "Until the attempt fails and all parties have parted safely," Seira speaks, pointing out that bit in the contract. "And in both cases, parting safely would mean actually leaving beyond the distance of the teleport spell on your part for a period of twenty four hours."
[20:58] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+6
06[20:58] * Hatbot --> "Blondezilla rolls 1d20+6 and gets 14." [1d20=8]
[20:58] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+15
06[20:58] * Hatbot --> "Blondezilla rolls 1d20+15 and gets 25." [1d20=10]
[21:02] <Blondezilla> "It says until Esthan is dead AND all parties have parted safely, or until the attempt fails," He points out. "They are not connected."
01[21:03] <Seira> "No, I think you don't understand," Seira insists. "I want us to part safely if the attempt fails as well. If we're forced to abort this attack on Esthan, it would hardly suit us for you to backstab us at that point."
[21:06] <Blondezilla> "If the attempt fails..." With a sardonic grin, "I care little because my life here can be measured in tea cups. But so be it, if you wish."
06[21:07] * Seira nods. "That's one down," she says, glancing at the part with the signatories again.
[21:10] <Blondezilla> "Then what's the rest?" Waiting, "Is the contract acceptable?"
[21:10] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+6
06[21:10] * Hatbot --> "Blondezilla rolls 1d20+6 and gets 18." [1d20=12]
[21:10] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+15
06[21:10] * Hatbot --> "Blondezilla rolls 1d20+15 and gets 25." [1d20=10]
01[21:14] <Seira> "I think so," Seira agrees. "You do realize, as you've brought it up yourself earlier, that by continuing Esthan's plans for this world you will come into direct opposition with us and no protection on the part of this contract?"
[21:19] <Blondezilla> "That bridge can be burned when we reach it," With a leering smile at Seira, "If Esthan kills me and continues to torment you, does that matter?"
[21:19] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+6
06[21:19] * Hatbot --> "Blondezilla rolls 1d20+6 and gets 9." [1d20=3]
[21:19] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+15
06[21:19] * Hatbot --> "Blondezilla rolls 1d20+15 and gets 19." [1d20=4]
06[21:22] * Seira nods thoughtfully. "Okay. I think I can recommend this to the Guard once I've made it past my reservations," she says reassuringly. "Unfortunately, you should know me by reputation. I distrust devils and would like to double-check everything. Upside? You don't have to suffer through that with a paladin. So let's start with what troubles me the most."
06[21:22] * Seira holds up the paper. "This contract seems pretty thought out for something you apparently came up with at a last moment. Why is that?"
[21:23] <Blondezilla> Steepling his hands together as he glares at Seira, "That is last minute. Any devil worth the shit off a lemure's back can write something lik ethat."
01[21:24] <Seira> "So you didn't have time to consider the implications. How do I know you won't change your mind and stab me in the back?"
[21:29] <Blondezilla> "If I do, Esthan has me as fodder and I die." With a long, withering look, "Would I even be here if not?"
01[21:31] <Seira> "Ah, but not if you are following his wishes right now!" Seira points out. "Maybe he just wants you to... oh, I don't know. Mess with our heads. Show off. Do something pointless again. After all, we only have your word that he wants you dead and has ordered you to kill us within a week."
[21:32] <Blondezilla> "If he is, I'm dead either way," With a long, flat look again, "Does it matter then?"
01[21:33] <Seira> "Hey, it's not like I'm refusing!" Seira insists. "But I want to be certain before I leap into a contract with a fiend like that. You have to understand, you must've done this countless times in other situations. You're sure he thinks you've outlived your usefulness? Because his intentions matter to us, even if not to you, and would help me towards making up my mind."
[21:39] <Blondezilla> "So be it. I have no intention of backstabbing you on this affair." It's all the devil says.
01[21:40] <Seira> "Nice. Alright. How many of us are expected to be the signatories?"
[21:40] <Blondezilla> "You are sufficient as it encapsules the guard," he says.
01[21:44] <Seira> "I think this also needs to be in the contract, specifically," Seira says.  "Namely, that you'll tell us right after we sign of any plans Esthan or any other devils might have within the timeframe regarding this world. It was a bit over a week, right?"
[21:51] <Blondezilla> "I'll tell you anything relevant to the situation," Is all that the devil says.
01[21:52] <Seira> "Close," Seira agrees. "But if I'm signing for the Guard, then I need to receive information on anything involving the Guard within that timeframe."
[22:05] <Blondezilla> "Involving this situation, yes."
01[22:05] <Seira> "Oh, you tease," Seira deadpans. "Come on, let's sign it. Devils first."
[22:07] <Blondezilla> Taking the paper, the devil signs it with a flick of it's nail and a bit of blood.
06[22:14] * Seira rolls her eyes and signs her name in ink.
01[22:15] <Seira> "Time for you to tell us what you came here to tell us," she says once she's done.
[22:33] <Blondezilla> "In a day or two in advance of it, as I said before." Drawing up now, "Is there any other information you need until then?"
01[22:34] <Seira> "I thought you had the location at least, but I suppose I got it wrong," Seira muses. "How will you contact us?"
[22:35] <Blondezilla> "Sending is sufficient," He replies, "Or a grabbed travelers, should the need make sending impractical."
01[22:37] <Seira> "Just use a sending to set up a meeting," Seira tells him. "I'll have to hurt you if you mess with anyone the way you did with that private."
[22:42] <Blondezilla> "So be it. Until then." In a flash, the cornugon is gone.
06[22:42] * Seira makes sure he's really gone and not just hiding, before returning to regroup with Alicia.
[22:43] <Blondezilla> Antenora follows. As they catch back up with Alicia, "He's deseperate on the surface and he wasn't lying. I think he's probably very afraid of Esthan and believes what he said."
01[22:45] <Seira> "It remains to be seen what Esthan thinks. But nothing ventured, nothing gained, and if it's all a big trap by Esthan at least our new friend won't be getting desperate like attacking our citizens for no reason."
[22:46] <Blondezilla> As the two rejoin Alicia, "Yes. A small victory. The trick is figuring out if this is a plan, or a broken plan...o ra greater plan by someone above even Esthan. You can never tell."
[22:48] <Alicia> "It wouldn't surprise me if Esthan was fully aware of everything that just transpired," Alicia remarks unhappily, sighing. "I hate it when fiends tell me to kill other fiends. It makes everything so muddy."
01[22:48] <Seira> "I hate it too, but I don't think it's too muddy. We want them both dead, right? This just affects the order in which they die."
[22:49] <Alicia> "Assuming all goes as planned, yes," Alicia nods.
[22:49] <Blondezilla> "That's a big if." Antenora can't help but smile there, "But we'll do it for sure."
01[22:52] <Seira> "Yes. I really must pay them back for messing up with my party and generally disrupting my travel plans, after all."
[22:53] <Alicia> "If it removes Esthan from the field then it can only free up that much more time in the future?" Alicia essays a smile. "That said, it is a bit of a strain when we still have to finish other matters as well."
01[22:55] <Seira> "Agreement on all counts, really. And I'm uncertain whether we should alert our contacts in the Fiefdoms. The pretext, at least, sounds like having something to do with them. It might be common courtesy to alert the top ranks."
[22:56] <Blondezilla> "Alicia, I have another idea as well. If this is going ot be some place we'll have minimal time to work with, we made need a lot of teleporting capacity. Can we borrow Celebrimbor's ring again, or otherwise purchase extra scrolls of teleportation? In case we need mobility when matters come to it."
01[22:57] <Seira> "I'm not sure I follow," Seira admits. "We'll need two telepors at most, surely, and I can provide for one quite easily."

[Corwin]

[20:14] <Kotono> --------
[20:18] <Kotono> Elle's shop is quiet in the rain. Not even the sound of raindrops can be heard inside - the water is slamming down outside, a chill rain coming from the west and pounding the city. But inside of here, it's warm and quiet and you can forget all about the weather. Elle sits in front of a cup of tea, steaming hot and obscuring her face in it's vapors. "So Seira," Sitting back, as she sits back, "Do you remember those stones you brought in a few m
[20:18] <Kotono> "So Seira," Sitting back, as she sits back, "Do you remember those stones you brought in a few months back from Malmuth?"
01[20:20] <Seira> "As a matter of fact, I do," Seira confirms, drinking her own tea without bothering about steam or heat one bit. "I've been thinking about that souvenier from time to time, but it didn't seem significant enough to bother you with so many other things in the balance."
[20:22] <Kotono> "Well, when you have magical artifacts and orders coming in from around the world...oh yes, that reminds me." Putting down her tea, "I'd like to hire a few more of your students. I'm starting to get orders from as far as Kelara and the lands to the west and the free cities far to the east. I'm starting to get a large back log of orders. If I didn't prioritize the Guard's work..."
01[20:27] <Seira> "When you're unhappy, we're unhappy. Roger! I'll make the pitch myself," Seira promises perkily, the situation being win-win however she looks at it. "And in a couple of months, it might be easier than ever to get orders from distant land only open to travel by teleportation," she adds. "It makes sense for you to keep ahead of the curve."
[20:29] <Kotono> "Oh yes. I'd have to start turning down orders and tha twould cut into my profit. That's completely unacceptable for anyone who follows Waukeen, yes?" Taking another drink of her tea, "Yes. I anticipate that your project will be used by the elite, who have the money to afford my services."
01[20:31] <Seira> "We would look at the long-term profit of allying ourselves with someone profitable enough to take the short-term losses--" Seira cuts herself off. "I mean, yes. And I already had Abagail check up on that. I figure that someone with a suitable background would be the perfect candidate to tell me just how much they would consider reasonable,
01[20:31] <Seira> and how much above that those financial elites would be willing to pay for the privelege."
[20:34] <Kotono> Nodding as she listens, "Mmmm, yes. But anyway, before I forget!" Clearing her throat, "Those stones, yes?"
06[20:35] * Seira nods.
[20:37] <Kotono> "They came from a suspected gnomish fortress site, as I recall?" Now she puts her hands into her lap, "I had to spend some time with these as well as use magic. As closely as I can tell," Getting up and going to one of the shelves and getting a cloth sack, "Whatever was there is pretty well obliterated. But that much was obvious, wasn't it?""
01[20:38] <Seira> "So much so that there is a very pretty crater remaining," Seira agrees.
[20:41] <Kotono> "From what you said, you also suspected that Irenes visited there years and years ago? It all makes a neat sort of sense. Anyawy, to the stones, they're pretty much just a curiosity. Whatever happened there didn't leave much to work with. The dust might be of some minor value if you didn't know much about the gnomes or what they did and wanted to throw money into it, but..." With as hrug, "They're a good souvenir. Whomever did the job there di
[20:41] <Kotono> but..." With as hrug, "They're a good souvenir. Whomever did the job there did it very throughly."
01[20:43] <Seira> "And it's pointless to try and dig there? Figures."
[20:44] <Kotono> "I haven't been to the site, honestly," Elle admits that as she holds up a hand, "If you want to go try and throw enough magic to see if any remnants are intact...hold on." Furrowing her brow, "Alice just messaged me something."
06[20:49] * Seira waits patiently, of course.
[20:51] <Kotono> Elle bows her head, lips moving for a few whispered words. After, "Oh, we just got someone looking to place an order. When Alice mentioned I was away talking to you, he said he was a friend of yours. A Berjand, I believe? Big scythe and from the desert?"
02[20:54] * thebladewillkeepondescending (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-213-77.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) Quit (ping bing wing fling)
01[20:55] <Seira> "That's right!" Seira exclaims. "He didn't really take to Balmuria, but Berjand decided to take a position with our temple in Arad and do that whole bettering the lives of others like his had been thing. Is he ordering something neat?"
[20:57] <Kotono> "I didn't get the details." Standing up and stretching now, "Let's go find out?"
06[20:57] * Seira is more than happy to do so.
[20:58] <Kotono> You find Berjand dressed in warm clothes, wrapped up except for his face. A head, hooded cloak still drips with bits of rain, his hood drawn down. "Seira!" He comes forward, offering a hand to her, "You look well and prosperous."
01[21:00] <Seira> "As well I should," she returns, quirking a smile as she shakes his hand. "And you look... warm."
[21:02] <Kotono> "The chill is not overwhelmingly bad compared to the desert winter, but the rain makes it far worse." His grip is strong, a quick pump before he's done. "Isonu sends his greetings. I'm doing his work here."
[21:04] <Kotono> "Ah yes. You can tell me all about that work. It's an order, isn't it? We can work o ut the details whenever you're ready."
[21:04] <Kotono> OOC: Gah.
[21:04] <Kotono> "Ah yes. You can tell me all about that work. It's an order, isn't it? We can work o ut the details whenever you're ready." Elle smiles and goes to his side, "I'll be back in my chambers. Alice, could you escort Berjand back when Seira finishes with him?"
[21:05] <Kotono> "Of course, Countess," Alice murmurs.
01[21:17] <Seira> "I'm glad," Seira tells Berjand. "How's life? It seems to be one of those obligatory questions people always ask."
[21:18] <Kotono> "Well. Besides this strange, too fast trip." With a faintly uneasy look, "It was unnerving to see the terrain go by so fast."
01[21:23] <Seira> "Oh? How did you travel?" Seira asks with interest.
[21:25] <Kotono> "Phantom Horses. Even if I've ridden on magical horses before...it's still strange, doubly so when the terrain is not all blasted death-land."
01[21:26] <Seira> "It's pretty crazy," Seira agrees. "Teleportation beats that. You've come on your own, right?"
[21:26] <Kotono> "No. I came with a few others. The mage who did the magic and two others. Do you remember a pair of thieves you turned over to the Temple of Waukeen?"
06[21:27] * Seira still keeps a hair from each for scrying purposes, on the off chance that she hadn't put the fear of Waukeen in them. "Did they become passable acolytes?"
[21:29] <Kotono> "They're doing well enough. They're in Balmuria with me. Isonu decided they needed to see more of the world to appreciate trading." Berjand says, "They're either at Waukeen's house here or touring Balmuria. They were going to do both."
01[21:30] <Seira> "It always helps to go out and see how large and diverse the world is," she agrees wholeheartedly. "Is your group staying here long, then? And who's the mage providing for transportation?"
[21:32] <Kotono> "Allister. Apparently he owed Isonu a favor. He's been peevish about the entire trip."
06[21:33] * Seira rolls her eyes. "I can get you back if the times work out. Stop by and inquire when you're ready to head out?"
[21:34] <Kotono> "We will," Offering his hand to Seira again, "I'll bring Esra and Jale by if you want to see them again?"
01[21:35] <Seira> "That would be quite the fun reunion," Seira tells him, smiling and finding herself anticipating it. "And I can't let you go, not without hearing what you're here to order. It's not something boringly mundane, is it?"
[21:36] <Kotono> "Let's see," Taking out a wrapped scroll, "It's mostly orders for various merchants. Small things, fro what I understand. Potions, oils, a few items." IN lower tones, "Isonu is trying to build up further clientele. Having valuable goods helps."
06[21:37] * Seira nods at that. "I'll see if I can help the next time I'm there. Direct a Bey here and there in the right direction."
[21:38] <Kotono> "I shall." Offering his hand to Seira again, "We'll talk again soon before I leave."
01[21:40] <Seira> "We must," she agrees. "There's much I'd like to ask you, now that I have the chance." Seira shakes Berjand's hand. "But I know enough not to stand you between you and your goal."
[21:40] <Kotono> "This way," Ailce is at Berjand's side, "When you're ready to see Countess Stronger."
[21:41] <Kotono> "I shall," Berjand agrees, "Blessing sof the Lady of Prosperity on you."

[Corwin]

[19:44] <Kotono> -----------(Katana Ko)---
[19:46] <Kotono> About six days of tense waiting pass. On a chilly day with a wind that blows in from the Galkass Mountains, Seira receives the following Sending a little before lunchtime, 'Meet in the same place as before to discuss Esthan in 15 minutes.'
01[19:47] <Seira> "We can make it," Seira responds curtly.
[19:47] <Kotono> OOC: Who's coming to that?
01[19:49] <Seira> OOC: Whomever is near and can be grabbed to meet that time
[19:49] <Kotono> OOC: I'll assume Donald because he's close, as well as Alicia and Antenora due to Antenora probably being with Alicia and Alicia being the other PC and wroth getting anyway. That sound good?
01[19:49] <Seira> OOC: Let's do it
[19:50] <Kotono> Gathering Alicia from the garrison and getting Antenora to follow her and Donald, Seira leads the four back to the outside house where they met the devil last time. The door is shut again, waiting to be opened, perhaps.
06[19:51] * Seira opens the door waiting to be opened.
[19:51] <Kotono> OOC: Strike antenora then.
[19:53] <Kotono> Inside, in front of an empty, ashen fireplace is Armanzas. He paces with his clawed hands behind his back, turning to the three. "The chance comes nigh. We have a little time yet, but our chance must not be wasted and we must act with due time and diligence."
[19:53] <Alicia> "Speak, then," Alicia replies curtly as she enters behind Seira.
03[19:57] * GroupOvermindDaemon is now known as tai-kfalrk
[19:58] <Kotono> "This afternoon, Esthan will be in an elven village to the east called Treesport. Our chance is now - to surprisehim a nd strike him down before his power can lay us all low." Slamming a fist into his other clawed hand, "One overpowering strike."
01[20:00] <Seira> "This afternoon?" Seira asks, frowning. "I don't think I've been there, and there's not enough time to get there by other means than teleportation."
[20:00] <Alicia> "There should be a map in the Elven mission we can consult," Alicia volunteers. "Will Esthan be alone?" she then asks of the fiend.
[20:01] <Kotono> "If needed I can teleport there and you can scry me," With a dour look, "Under the circumstances I will not resist it. I am not certain to that - he should be, but I do not rule out him having agents of his own that I am not aware of."
[20:01] <Kotono> Donald stands back and listens, keeping his own council for the moment.
01[20:02] <Seira> "Let's try using the map first," Seira muses. "How will we find Esthan quickly enough? Will he be using the same disguise?"
[20:03] <Alicia> "We could just stake out the village bakery, he's sure to stop there," Alicia remarks dourly.
01[20:04] <Seira> "So you're thinking of laying in wait?" Seira asks. "If he has his agents around, we might be discovered and he just wouldn't show."
[20:04] <Kotono> "I believe so," With a short nod, "The choice to that is yours. You risk his agents if he has any around him, yes."
[20:05] <Alicia> "That's why we'd disguise ourselves and spread about the village," Alicia replies with a faint frown. "I'm not inclined to tip him off if I can help it, no."
01[20:06] <Seira> "A simple divination might tell an agent all it needs to know," Seira argues.
[20:08] <Alicia> "Divinations fail to pierce mundane disguises, although I'll admit some of us have features that are harder to conceal than others. What do you suggest then, Seira?" Alicia asks reasonably.
[20:08] <Kotono> "Alicia's protected from that, isn't she?" Donald clears his throat, "Magic could work better for her. Seira, got any other non-detections handy?"
01[20:09] <Seira> "I can cover myself, but I'm worried about Latha, in honesty. She's the one whose aura would stand out, and even if I cast the spell on her it would be weaker than otherwise."
[20:11] <Alicia> "Does the temple of Waukeen sell potions to mask a person's nature from those sorts of divinations?"
[20:11] <Kotono> "We could have it in two waves?" Donald makes a few strange gestures with his hands, "One to hit him first, then to have another team teleport in to pincer him, with the people who are harder to disguise?"
01[20:13] <Seira> "The potions might be a better choice," Seira says. "It seems this issue is easily resolved. Great! So only the question of what pretext you'll have for being there remains, Armanzas."
[20:19] <Kotono> "That is...taken care of," Armanzas say sshortly, "For I will not reveal myself there until the time is right."
01[20:20] <Seira> "So what's Esthan's plan for the village and its inhabitants?"
[20:21] <Kotono> "More influencing and corrupting. I believe he has his eye on an interest there, but I am not certain," Armanzas paces more at this, "It hardly matters if it is where he is defeated."
01[20:22] <Seira> "Just chalk it down to curiousity. And I don't think I need to tell you this, you being intelligent enough, but you absolutely can't attack him at the expense of the people there. Don't put any at risk!"
[20:25] <Kotono> "Of course, of course," With a deep, cragging smirk, "As if Esthan will care of that."
01[20:26] <Seira> "You think he'll take his attention off someone trying her very best to kill him?"
[20:26] <Alicia> "He's perfectly capable of doing both," Alicia remarks curtly. "Lets avoid giving him the chance."
01[20:27] <Seira> "It seems like we're almost set, then. Let's not waste any time and proceed?"
[20:27] <Kotono> "Very well. Gather whom you will and go to the map. I will wait here for when you are ready."
[20:30] <Kotono> OOC: Ready to move along then?
01[20:30] <Seira> OOC: YEs
[20:31] <Alicia> OOC: sure
[20:31] <Kotono> OOC: Going to gather everyone as well as a map from the elven mission?
[20:31] <Alicia> OOC: Seira can ask her temple nicely for undetectable alignment potions for Anty and Latha?
[20:32] <Kotono> OOC: She can get a few if you want, Seira's credit there is good and so forth.
01[20:33] <Seira> OOC: Donald and Oberuth could get cloaks or whatever. I'll go with nondetection from the lvl4 slot.
[20:33] <Alicia> OOC: Myself and Anty will use alter self, Latha has change shape
[20:34] <Kotono> OOC: Okay. What shapes will you and Antenora be in?
01[20:34] <Seira> OOC: I'll use the disguise self earrings to look like a random elf~
[20:35] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[20:35] <Alicia> OOC: we'll both be eladrin-themed aasimar so we can pose as elves. She can be a cute young redhead, I'll be an older brunette. Armour and sword go into the portable hole for me. Suggest Anty either does the same or wears heavy clothes to conceal her armour and disguises her spear somehow
[20:36] <Kotono> OOC: She'll do the same. Donald'll store his armor in Alicia's hole too.
01[20:36] <Seira> OOC: Disguise self should work for me, unless someone is close enough to brush against my cloak or whatever
[20:37] <Kotono> OOC: Going to go back to the devil now?
[20:37] <Alicia> OOC: hiding/disguising the hammer of the shard would be neat as well if possible
01[20:37] <Seira> OOC: I'll hold it, so it's using nondetection and is disguised
[20:37] <Alicia> OOC: works
[20:38] <Alicia> OOC: lets go. GMW cast on hell striker, black horn spear, magebane sword, mace of disruption, and hammer of shard
[20:38] <Alicia> OOC: and sword of sealed gate
01[20:38] <Seira> roll 1d10 FL
06[20:38] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d10 FL and gets 8." [1d10=8]
[20:39] <Kotono> The full party returns to the devil! Armanzas looks them over, "It will do, Baator willing." With a deep throaty growl, "Can you make it from the map you got?"
01[20:40] <Seira> "Let's aim for a bit off the outskirts?" Seira suggests. "Just in case, and all."
[20:40] <Alicia> "I believe so," Alicia nods. "There's a pear-shaped lake bordering the Southern road to the village, I shall aim for that."
[20:43] <Kotono> "So be it!" Armanzas vanishes! OOC: Go ahead, Alicia.
06[20:43] * Alicia gathers everyone round and teleports!
[20:43] <Alicia> roll 1d100
06[20:43] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d100 and gets 97." [1d100=97]
[20:43] <Alicia> OOC: mishap
[20:43] <Alicia> roll 1d10 damage
06[20:43] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d10 damage and gets 4." [1d10=4]
[20:44] <Kotono> OOC: Adjust #elysium HP/who's in the topic. Also, you roll 1d20+20 now.
[20:44] <Alicia> roll 1d20+80
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+80 and gets 83." [1d20=3]
[20:44] <Alicia> OOC: off target
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d10
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d10
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d10 and gets 4." [1d10=4]
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d10 and gets 3." [1d10=3]
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d9
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d9 and gets 2." [1d9=2]
[20:46] <Kotono> Guuuuh! The teleport is shaky, leaving everyone feeling dazed! You appear in a tree filled ravine, a chilly wind blowing through the trees. It's thick, untouched forest all about you. No sign of a lake at all.
[20:46] <Kotono> "Damned magic," Oberuth wipes his mouth with the back of his hand, "Everyone alright?"
06[20:47] * Alicia grimaces. "Sometimes happens when I don't have a clear picture to work from," she apologises. "Let me try again?" Focusing on the lay of the land that the map gave her, she once again attempts to warp space and time!
[20:47] <Alicia> roll 1d100
06[20:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d100 and gets 56." [1d100=56]
[20:48] <Kotono> Wooosh! You appear next to a gentle lake. It's waters lap against a tree lined short. A dirt road is nearby it, leading to a clearing int he forest. It looks like several trees are there, build in and around. The air smells good and fresh.
[20:49] <Alicia> "Better," Alicia nods in relief, pointing out the village. More warily, she then looks around for the baatezu turncoat.
[20:49] <Alicia> Not the one she lives with.
[20:50] <Kotono> Antenora is right besides Alicia, looking about. Armanzas stands at the edge of the water, near some trees. His tail twitches into the water, little tendrils of musty, foul blackness spreading into the water whenever it makes contact. He waits, half hidden by trees.
01[20:51] <Seira> "So how long do we have?"
[20:52] <Kotono> Coming slightly forward, "I'm not sure. Even if he's not here, he may have agents ahead or behind of him. Step softly and strike hard."
01[20:53] <Seira> "It's more a matter of casting the right spells," Seira says, her elfin features twisting into a frown. "I can't push them past two hours, give or take."
[20:53] <Alicia> "I suggest we split up so as to be less noticable and have more chance of intercepting him," Alicia suggests. "Perhaps have two of us wait by the road outside and the rest of us disperse throughout the village?"
[20:54] <Kotono> "We can communicate easily enough," Donald says as he pulls his hood down, "Once we find him, we prepare and then strike?"
01[20:55] <Seira> "I'll be with Donald, both to help him fit in better, and because I'm carrying something he'll find useful," Seira suggests, adding mentally, 'Waiting by the road to get advance knowledge works."
[20:57] <Kotono> "Right," Donald steps next to Seira, "We can pretend to be a couple!
[20:57] <Kotono> "
[20:57] <Kotono> "Who will wait, then?" Antenora asks.
01[20:57] <Seira> "My acting skills are superb," she notes dryly.
[20:59] <Alicia> "The Commander and I can wait here - he'd probably attract too much attention in an isolated elf village like this," Alicia suggests. "We can pretend to be fishing, perhaps?"
[20:59] <Alicia> "Or maybe a bit closer to the village... the lake does go on nearer, and it's best not to be too distant," she amends.
01[21:00] <Seira> "Sounds right," Seira agrees, smiling at Latha and Antenora. "You could pretend to be a couple as well!"
[21:00] <Kotono> "That's fine," Oberuth nods, "The rest of you get going then. Stay in touch."
[21:01] <Kotono> "I see." LAtha eyes Seira, "No, I think that may get too much attention."
06[21:02] * Seira pouts. "Well, it was a thought." She grabs Donald's arm, beginning to pull him towards the village. "Come on, let's go!"
[21:02] <Kotono> OOC: #evil, Alicia.
[21:03] <Alicia> "Remember to come find me before your disguise wears off if we need to renew it," Alicia tells Antenora.

---

[21:05] <Kotono> Settling down in front of the lake, glancing back at Armanzas without comment, "Got a fishing pole," Oberuth asks. "Or any sort of prop for this?"
[21:07] <Alicia> "Not handy I'm afraid, but we can probably improvise something with some deadwood," Alicia replies, scouring around a bit for some handy as they settle down by the lake where it edges the road close to the village.
[21:07] <Kotono> Alicia gathers some out without incident. Oberuth looks out over the lake in the meantime. 'You know devils better than I do. Do you think this is going to work now, or is it a trap?'
[21:10] <Alicia> 'The cornugon wants Esthan dead, of that I'm fairly sure,' she replies telepathically, opening up the portable hole and taking out Hell Striker which she covers with fallen leaves and half sits on as she sets camp. 'But killing Esthan and us aren't necessarily exclusive. If we present ourselves as easy targets even after beating Esthan, he might try to take advantage of our weakness.'
[21:12] <Kotono> 'The second verse of the problem: Is this a greater plan by Esthan or another devil, or a real bit of rebellion and backstabbing?' Oberuth glances behind him casually, as he leans forward into the ground. He digs a bit, coming out with a few worms after a moment's effort.
[21:13] <Alicia> 'Actually, there's something I'm curious about,' Alicia admits, glancing over to the skulking baatezu. "Armanzas, wasn't it?" she calls over.
[21:13] <Kotono> "Yes," Armanzas' voice rumbles low in his chest, a grumble of hellfire and sulphur. "What is it you desire now?"
[21:15] <Alicia> "I'm just wondering. Has word got out in Hell of late regarding Esthan's treachery against the Overlord?" she asks casually.
[21:16] <Kotono> "IF I were you, mortal, I would clarify your words most intently right now," Armanzas speaks with burning hatred, his entire body seeming to ripple with it.
[21:18] <Alicia> "Well, when Esthan tried to recruit us to his cause a few months ago, he explained how he worked for a powerful devil that intends to usurp control of the Nine Hells. Admittedly I've considered that he could have simply been bluffing, I'm not quite sure why he'd bother," Alicia responds. "Given his priveleged position in the current regime, it seems doubly strange."
[21:19] <Kotono> "Hmph." Armanzas is silent a long time, "He speaks words of foolishness, or perhaps has imagined himself with the bravo and regal might of Lord Mephiso or the Fly Lord."
[21:22] <Alicia> "There were many devils present when he explained his treachery to us, and I have given this information to a few baatezu that I've sent on their way home. I find it unfathomable that those tasked with ferreting out disloyalty among your kind are unaware of the situation, so I can only conclude that there is another ploy at work, here," Alicia goes on with her speculations.
[21:23] <Kotono> After a longer pause, "It may be so. It may ver well be so." He admits this, his tail spearing out. Black spreads into the lake as it comes back out with a fish, withering dead within seconds. He rips it from his tail, biting it apart and eating it savagely. Tossing a few bones back into the water, half crushed in his grip, "You've learned from the traitor well enough, I see."
[21:26] <Alicia> "We've taught each other a thing or two," Alicia inclines her head briefly. "The tale of Baron Molikroth seems apt, but merely copying a ploy used by another doesn't sit right, either. Regardless, there is far more to Esthan than him simply being a superior who casually discards the pawns of his underlings."
[21:28] <Kotono> Armanzas grunts to that, "Yes, you are correct. There is far more to Esthan than one would assess unless your eye is that of a devil." His voice holds a certain, cold restraint now. "Ones of his statue that also master arcane magic are true elites. Yet he seems to hold no noble rank, only the title 'Of Nessus', which in itself is a great honor, and the authority to do so."
[21:33] <Alicia> "Hmm... I wonder if 'Esthan' is merely a facade worn by another fiend of more renown?" Alicia posits thoughtfully. "Such a tangled web that has been woven around him... perhaps before the day is out we will have some answers?"
[21:34] <Kotono> 'Nothing so far,' Latha's voice sounds in Alicia's head. 'We're just looking around in general, though we saw Seira and Donald head into a store.'
[21:35] <Kotono> "Hmph. I wonder..." Rumbling now as he thinks, "To copy Baron Molikroth is not impossible. Nor are a dozen other schemes of renown, such as the Four-Cross. But to speculate this, he could be almost anything then. Perhaps even one of the paragons..."
[21:36] <Alicia> 'It's rather early, yet,' Alicia returns to the deva. 'Just try to blend in as you can? Best not to raise any fuss that might tip our foe off.'
[21:36] <Alicia> roll 1d20+22 paragon, in a hellish context? (planes)
06[21:36] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+22 paragon, in a hellish context? (planes) and gets 27." [1d20=5]
[21:38] <Alicia> "Paragons?" Alicia raises an eyebrow. "I confess that in all my dealings with your kind, that's not a term I'd heard before."
[21:40] <Kotono> The air becomes tense, quiet. "It is not a matter that mortals must concern themselves with." His presence broods deeply on you, "Unless you wish to peer into the depths of Hell, paladin." He offers a hand out, "Do you?"
[21:44] <Alicia> "I've done more than peer, already," Alicia replies offhandedly. "If you're so concerned with being secretive I'll just ask Antenora later."
[21:46] <Kotono> "Certainly she will tell you if she knows. She obeys you like you were a Lord of the Nine." With a sardonic contempt in his voice, "Your taming and breaking of her is impressive, I must admit. You crushed her will and filled her head with pointless inanities."
[21:50] <Alicia> "I prefer to think of it as opening her eyes to the realities of existence," Alicia replies. "Certainly, her will is far less crushed than it was when she was a mere cog in the infernal meat-grinder."
[21:51] <Kotono> "As part of Hell she has more authority and majesty than she could ever have as your lapdog." With a snort of utter, hateful contempt, "What all of your words matter on the day that Lord Asmodeus crushes the light from the top of the Heavens forever?"
[21:52] <Kotono> "I understand," Oberuth focuses on the lake for a bit, "Your own self importance is paramount. If you aren't the best, you can't keep going in the same stupid circle over and over, can you?"
[21:52] <Alicia> "Just like your authority and majesty as Esthan's disobedient lapdog?" Alicia returns with a nasty smirk.
[21:53] <Kotono> Oberuth's expression changes there, holding up a hand.
[21:53] <Kotono> OOC: Goa head and reply in #dunes.

---

[21:04] <Kotono> Seira and the rest begin to trickle in town in two groups. While Latha and Antenora follow a little behind, SEira and Donald travela long. Inside the village are a few elves, coming and going. It's very sleepy and peaceful, a few dozen trees houses as well as free standing ones. Carved wooden signs hang from metal chains on signposts in front of most buildings.
06[21:06] * Seira looks for a good spot to cast a couple of spells out of sight before getting so close to the village she might be spotted by its residents, extending Heroism and Dragonskin, the latter protecting her from acid to a degree. "No reason to share our full ability with a devil that'll become our enemy, right?" she asks Donald, ready to proceed once more.
[21:06] <Kotono> Donald just nods, "Yeah." As you enter into town, mentally, 'What do you think of all of this? Is that devil full of crap or what?'
01[21:09] <Seira> 'Of course he is,' Seira asserts with a snort. 'But that doesn't mean he can't be right. If he manages to deliver Esthan, even if Esthan planned the whole thing, it's a chance for us.'
[21:11] <Kotono> 'Right.' Donald starts to look about, "Should we get something to eat, or find a room, dear?" With a sweet, sappy smile, "My feet are kind of tired."
01[21:16] <Seira> "I could eat," Seira agrees, flashing back a smile.
[21:17] <Kotono> Going to check a few sighs, "Oh, here's one," He says, "There's a bakery a few doors down, and the village inn and tavern isn't far." Peering down to read, "Some fruit bread could be good, or maybe something hot?"
01[21:19] <Seira> "Let's go for bread," she muses, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "It's a bit early in the day to eat a full course meal again."
[21:20] <Kotono> Wrapping an arm around seira's shoulder, "Let's go, dear," He smiles, walking along. "We have plenty of money for that."
06[21:24] * Seira allows herself to be lead along, wondering all the while what variety of bread she will find here.
[21:26] <Kotono> The bakery is a hollowed out tree. Inside are platters of wood, breads all about. A young elven woman works here, humming a merry tune. Unlike most, she's slightly on the heavy side in her stomach. A male elf is eating some fruit filled bread at a table on the side, while an older one sips a mug of something and drowses in the sunlight. "Good day...oh!" The woman turns, "Travelers? I confess you do not look familiar to me."
[21:26] <Kotono> "Travelers? I confess you do not look familiar to me."
[21:29] <Kotono> The male elf eating glances up briefly before going back to his food. The other doesn't stir in his nappings at all.
01[21:31] <Seira> "From the Citadel of Light," Seira agrees pleasantly. "We're going to visit relatives of mine at Elandra's Rest, but since we're going on such a journey, why not take the scenic route?" She relies on Donald to smoothly follow up with an order to move them along, telling him as much mentally.
[21:32] <Kotono> "Some fruit bread, whatever's fresh," Donald says, "We'd just love to sit down and eat. Some wine with it too, something that goes good with it, if you have any?" With a pleasant smile, "My dearest so loves a good glass of wine after a day on the travel."
[21:33] <Kotono> "Of course," SHuffling about and producing a still warm and steaming loaf of bread out, as well as a small bottle of wine, "Here you are." Donald exchanges a few coins for them, going to another table and sitting down.
06[21:35] * Seira takes a seat where chance of collision with other guests that might serve to doom her disguise, whether by accident or intentionally, are minimal.
[21:36] <Kotono> Taking a seat against the wall, Donald sits on the outside. He takes a few bites of bread after removing a slice. 'Anything catch your eye? Going to do any talking or just eat and movea long?'
01[21:37] <Seira> 'Just listen in without appearing to do so,' Seira responds, trying the bread herself as well. 'If we're not the only travelers passing through, it will become apparent soon enough.'
[21:38] <Kotono> A few minutes psas as you eat. The food is good, reminding Seira of her younger days. As she relaxes, you can overhear chatter. The older elf comes up from his sleep-like trance, repositioning in the sun in the meantime. As he does, "Can I have some water," The male elf asks, "That was very good." He goes forward and hands a few coins to the woman there, "Blessings of Correllon on your coming gift."
[21:39] <Kotono> "Thank you!" She hums cheerfully, "I'll get you a glass and bring it over, youc an sit down."
[21:40] <Kotono> 'Nothing yet,' Latha sounds in Seira's mind. 'Any luck? We're still outside.'
01[21:41] <Seira> 'I can check those present for anything untoward, but if they're ready for it, they might become alerted. Should I try it?' Seira thinks back, directing her question to everyone linked.
[21:43] <Kotono> 'I'll trust your judgment,' Latha thinks back, 'Let us know how it goes if you do, or if you need help. We're going to check the inn now.'
06[21:44] * Seira decides to wait until Latha gets back to her from her inn inspection.
[21:50] <Kotono> After a few minutes pass, 'Seira,' Latha sounds in her mind, 'He's there, sitting and drinking with two other elves. He doesn't act like he's noticed us, but that means little.'
01[21:52] <Seira> 'That sounds like a great invitation,' Seira muses in response. 'Alicia, Commander, how far away are you?'
[21:53] <Kotono> 'We're still at the lake. What is it, Seira?' Oberuth asks.
[21:53] <Alicia> 'About five minutes walk out of town?'
01[21:54] <Seira> 'Seems like Latha found Esthan at the inn. I'm going to prepare, but this might be a good time to regroup.'
[21:54] <Alicia> 'We're on our way. Try to avoid battle until we arrive?'
01[21:55] <Seira> 'I won't tempt fate.'
[21:55] <Kotono> "What's up?" Donald asks low as he continues to eat.
06[21:56] * Seira then resumes eating her bread at leisure, aiming to take four minutes as she fills Donald in on the details.
01[21:57] <Seira> And getting Latha to bide her time, of course.
06[21:58] * Seira fully intends to part along with Donald after the snack, and if no one is following them, find a reasonably secluded alley to duck into and cast the spells she would need.
[22:00] <Kotono> OOC: Go ahead and cast whatever spells you are then.
06[22:01] * Seira casts Shield, Bear's Endurance and Ray Deflection, the first two throwaway spells she can afford to lose if the Esthan at the inn is a decoy. The latter would hurt, but that's why she came prepared with a Globe of Invulnerability. And the hardest part is storing True Strike and Haste into spell matrixes, a regrettably painful process.
01[22:02] <Seira> roll 2d6
06[22:02] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 2d6 and gets 12." [2d6=6, 6]
06[22:03] * Seira calls upon Stoneskin as well, because there's really no reason to wait on it.

[Corwin]

[21:55] <Alicia> "Speak of the devil..." Alicia frowns slightly, getting up and putting Hell Striker into the hole. "Sounds like your master got here ahead of us."
[21:56] <Kotono> "Excellent," Now cutting himself off from the previous, "Now is the time to strike him."
[21:56] <Alicia> "Can you conceal yourself?" Alicia asks. "I'd rather not charge in like a pack of demons if I can help it."
[21:58] <Kotono> With a soundless motion, Armanzas vanishes from sight. "Good enough if I bring up the rear."
06[21:59] * Alicia nods curtly, casting a spell to bolster and encourage those around her as she starts walking briskly towards the town. "Don't do anything foolish."
[22:00] <Kotono> Oberuth begins to walk as well! The two head into town without incident - it looks sleepy and quiet. Two disguised celestials are waiting outside one building in the meantime, chatting lightly and looking at one of the hanging signs.
[22:00] <Alicia> OOC: heroism also cast on self and Obureth
06[22:01] * Alicia nods to Latha and Antenora and approaches the duo. "He's in the inn?" she confirms quietly.
[22:03] <Kotono> With a slight nod, Antenora looks to it. In Alicia's mind, 'Waiting on the other two now. They should be along any time.'
[22:05] <Alicia> 'We can't fight him inside, it'll be a bloodbath,' Alicia states regrettably. 'Best if we can catch him as he leaves.'
[22:06] <Kotono> As they talk, an elven couple approaches the party, Seira and Donald.
[22:06] <Kotono> 'How do we get him out then? We can't really wait all day here, it'll look bad if he has nayone keeping an eye out.' Antenora continues to chatter with Latha about nothing at all.
06[22:07] * Alicia nods to the new pair, deciding to follow Antenora's example and verbally express her enthusiasm for the weather. 'If we attack him in the inn it'll be a bloodbath,' she sends over telepathy to everyone else. 'We need some way to get him out of there.'
[22:08] <Kotono> "Hello there," Antenora bubbles, "You two look so nice together! I'm Elfana."
[22:08] <Kotono> 'How?' Latha questions, 'If we tip our hand doing it, the advantage goes back to him.'
01[22:09] <Seira> "Umm. Thanks," Seira responds, visibly disturbed at such a random case of befriending. 'How about I shoot him with the bow, Alicia hits him with the sword of not teleporting, and the rest try to evacuate the inn's residents?'
[22:11] <Kotono> Antenora gives off an offended look, turning away from Seira. Latha chuckles to herself, patting Antenora' sshoulder.
[22:12] <Alicia> 'I really don't want to start a fight in such a cramped area full of innocents...' Alicia sounds hesitant. 'Nothing we could maybe use as a distraction?'
01[22:14] <Seira> 'I think it's best to keep it indoors. Esthan might have agents here, and a free for all on the street with residents running around in terror would deliver that same bloodbath,' Seira responds mentally, before grabbing Donald's hand more tightly. "Well, this was nice, but I think I'm famished. How about a bite to eat?"
[22:15] <Alicia> 'Wait, I might have an idea... Seira, do you have dimension door or teleport prepared?'
01[22:15] <Seira> 'The latter.'
[22:16] <Alicia> 'I'll go in first. I can use walls of force to cut Esthan and myself off from everyone else. Then you can teleport everyone else in on my side of the walls and we attack?'
01[22:17] <Seira> 'No element of surprise, but I'm good with that. Lead the way, I'll follow whenever you say so.'
[22:18] <Alicia> 'It should be obvious enough,' Alicia responds grimly, heading inside...
[22:18] <Kotono> 'OOC: Just you, Alicia?
06[22:18] * Seira follows with Donald, quite naturally, although she would be headed for the counter.
[22:19] <Alicia> OOC: that was my plan, since the others need to all stay together so Seira can teleport them
01[22:22] <Seira> OOC: Strike
06[22:22] * Seira instead spends the time chatting with Donald, while mentally asking Latha to describe the location Esthan was at.
[22:23] <Kotono> Alicia heads in! The tavern has a few elves about, talking and relaxing. As Latha fills Seira in, Alicia sees Esthan. His hood is up, casual gaze as he chats with two lithe elves. One is a man and one is a woman, both pretty enough. They're talking low, about 40 feet away and right in front of the fireplace. There's a few tables between you and his table, too. He sits at the back of the table, his table also betwen him and you. His two gue
[22:23] <Kotono> He sits at the back of the table, his table also betwen him and you. His two guests sit on either side of him.
[22:24] <Alicia> Either side of him around the table, or either side as in shoulder to shoulder?
[22:25] <Kotono> The former.
06[22:26] * Alicia estimates whether she can use one wall of force to completely box Esthan off from every other patron of the inn, or whether she'll need two intersecting ones for the job.
[22:26] <Kotono> OOC: You could do it in one wall.
[22:26] <Kotono> OOC: Wait. how tight a fit do yo uwant here?
[22:27] <Alicia> OOC: I want enough room for Esthan plus 5 other medium sized creatures at the bare minimum, preferably a little more
[22:27] <Kotono> OOC: You'd have to get the other two in it. Youc ould do it in one wall with your CL, but there's just not enough space there for five creatures.
[22:28] <Alicia> OOC: okay, with two walls to create some angles to play with would that allow more room?
[22:28] <Kotono> OOC: Not really. He's back by the fireplace, so you're pretty much against a wall without much space behind him.
[22:31] <Alicia> OOC: how many elves in here besides the two with Esthan?
[22:32] <Kotono> OOC: Five. They're scattered here and there, mostly isolated. No one's too close to him.
[22:32] <Alicia> OOC: and there's definitely no way I could use two intersecting walls to expand the area?
[22:34] <Kotono> OOC:  He's back against the fireplace. There's just not any space to work with there behind him, so no.
[22:34] <Kotono> OOC: Unless youc an make the wall go away or something.
[22:36] <Alicia> 'It's no good, the angles aren't right...' Alicia sends to the others, voice strained as she struggles to wrap her mind around the layout of the inn. 'Any other ideas?'
01[22:38] <Seira> 'I can call upon benign transposition, if that helps at all?'
[22:38] <Alicia> 'I don't think so...' Alicia sounds unsure.
01[22:40] <Seira> 'A variation on my earlier suggestion, made to work with your plan, then? You seal Esthan off as best you can, Latha, Antenora, Donald and the Commander could protect anyone caught in the crossfire until we sort things out.'
[22:45] <Alicia> 'Actually, wait, I see a way now,' Alicia responds. 'Get ready, I'm going to have these up in a flash,' she warns as she meanders over towards the rear of the inn...
[22:45] <Kotono> OOC: How close are you getting?
[22:46] <Alicia> OOC: lets say halfway across the inn, so 20 feet?
[22:47] <Kotono> Alicia meanders closer! The elves are continually talking and chatting with ESthan. He glances up as Alicia approaches, a pleasant smile on his face as he looks to her, before going back to his conversation.
06[22:47] * Alicia returns the smile with one of her own, uttering a silent 'Now!' as time sloooows and... stops.
[22:48] <Alicia> OOC: time stop boots activated, 2 rounds start now
[22:48] <Kotono> OOC: Go ahead.
[22:49] <Alicia> Immediately Alicia casts a spell as the world ceases around her, conjuring forth an invisible wall of force along the back wall of the inn, stopping just past Esthan himself. She then walks forward to the far wall herself, drawing her sword as she goes.
[22:50] <Kotono> OOC: Was that one or both rounds?
[22:50] <Alicia> OOC; one round, move and standard
[22:50] <Kotono> OOC: Go on.
[22:50] <Alicia> In position now, she casts once more to draw another wall of force, this one at an angle stretching from Esthan's table to a third of the way back from the far wall, effectively creating half of a funnel with Esthan plugging it. For good measure she channels an enervation into her sword as time restarts and Seira hopefully does her part...
06[22:53] * Seira immediately focuses on a part of the inn between the wall visible to her and Esthan, aiming to teleport their group over!
[22:53] <Alicia> 'Aim for the area on Esthan's left, there's more room there!' she quickly adds!
01[22:53] <Seira> Ooc: Strike~
06[22:54] * Seira immediately focuses on a part of the inn between the farther wall and Esthan at Alicia's suggestion, aiming to teleport their group over!
01[22:54] <Seira> roll 1d100
06[22:54] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d100 and gets 16." [1d100=16]
[22:55] <Kotono> Woosh! In a moment, the party appears within that tight space! OOC: SEira, you have your nonstandard actions left. Everyone else has their turn but Alicia, who time stopped. Go ahead and go first, Seira?
06[22:55] * Seira calls upon Haste as she arrives, and draws the artifact bow on loan from Pollyanna as she steps back!
01[22:55] <Seira> OOC: Haste on all of us, moving so that I'm not in FA range for Esthan by any measure, but still within 30ft
[22:56] <Kotono> OOC: Okay. Donald will go first to try and hammer smack him.
[22:56] <Kotono> Donald charges forward, Hammer of the Shard out! He swings it as it breaks into arcane fires! "Hi, asshole!"
[22:57] <Kotono> roll 1d20+28 (+1 haste, +4 arcane strike 1 4th level spell)
06[22:57] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+28 (+1 haste, +4 arcane strike 1 4th level spell) and gets 34." [1d20=6]
[22:58] <Kotono> OOC: +20.
[22:59] <Kotono> roll 1d8+10+4d4
06[22:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+10+4d4 and gets 17." [1d8=3][4d4=1, 1, 1, 1]
[22:59] <Kotono> roll 1d4
06[22:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 2." [1d4=2]
[22:59] <Kotono> In a moment, the Hammer of the Shard hits Esthan's chest! It barely seems to dent him, but his entire body ripples with rainbow colors! A moment later, Antenora charges in, using her reach to stab over Donald's shoulder!
[23:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+35 (+1 haste, +2 charge, +2 bane, +7 smite, +2 FS, +12 ignorance, -15 PA)
06[23:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+35 (+1 haste, +2 charge, +2 bane, +7 smite, +2 FS, +12 ignorance, -15 PA) and gets 53." [1d20=18]
[23:03] <Kotono> roll 2d8+122+1d6+2d6
06[23:03] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8+122+1d6+2d6 and gets 140." [2d8=3, 5][1d6=5][2d6=1, 4]
[23:04] <Kotono> Antenora charges in, plunging the Black Horn spear into Esthan! She snarls without a word, as Oberuth positions and prepares, while holy energy slams into Esthan!
[23:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15 holy smite
06[23:04] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 holy smite and gets 21." [1d20=6]
[23:04] <Kotono> OOC: Moment, checking hammer.
[23:06] <Kotono> roll 10d6
06[23:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 39." [10d6=5, 4, 3, 4, 6, 4, 4, 3, 3, 3]
[23:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+30
06[23:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+30 and gets 37." [1d20=7]
[23:06] <Kotono> The holy energies wrap around Esthan, slamming him even harder! "Guh..." He grins viciously, hood tossed back by the assault! "Not badly done..." OOC: Init.
[23:07] <Alicia> roll 1d20+8
06[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+8 and gets 15." [1d20=7]
01[23:07] <Seira> roll 1d20+6
06[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+6 and gets 18." [1d20=12]
[23:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 Donald
06[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 Donald and gets 13." [1d20=10]
[23:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 Antenora
06[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 Antenora and gets 25." [1d20=20]
[23:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8 Latha
06[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 Latha and gets 14." [1d20=6]
[23:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 Oberuth
06[23:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 Oberuth and gets 12." [1d20=6]
[23:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 nerveskitter
06[23:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 nerveskitter and gets 36." [1d20=19]
[23:08] <Alicia> OOC: Obi has readied action!
[23:08] <Kotono> OOC: I'm aware, but I'm rolling in case he doesn't use it.
03[23:09] * Kotono changes topic to 'Esthan>Antenora>Seira>Alicia>Latha>Donald>Oberuth(Holding)'
[23:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[23:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
06[23:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 24." [1d20=13]
06[23:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 16." [1d20=5]
03[23:09] * Kotono changes topic to 'Esthan>????1>Antenora>Seira>????2>Alicia>Latha>Donald>Oberuth(Holding)'
[23:10] <Kotono> Esthan takes a few steps back, trying to regroup! But Oberuth charges him at the same time, as words of power are weaved around him!
[23:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 (+1 haste, +2 heroism, -8 PA)
06[23:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 (+1 haste, +2 heroism, -8 PA) and gets 31." [1d20=10]
[23:12] <Kotono> roll 1d8+2d6+21
06[23:12] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+2d6+21 and gets 30." [1d8=5][2d6=1, 3]
[23:13] <Kotono> roll 2d8+2d6+42+1d6
06[23:13] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8+2d6+42+1d6 and gets 58." [2d8=2, 1][2d6=4, 4][1d6=5]
[23:13] <Kotono> roll 1d20+46 concentration attempt go
06[23:13] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+46 concentration attempt go and gets 62." [1d20=16]

[Corwin]

[19:47] <Kotono> > OOC: I'm aware, but I'm rolling in case he doesn't use it.
[19:47] <Kotono> * Retrieving #evildunes modes...
[19:47] <Kotono> * Kotono changes topic to 'Esthan>Antenora>Seira>Alicia>Latha>Donald>Oberuth(Holding)'
[19:47] <Kotono> > roll 1d20+11
[19:47] <Kotono> > roll 1d20+11
[19:47] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 24." [1d20=13]
[19:47] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 16." [1d20=5]
[19:47] <Kotono> * Kotono changes topic to 'Esthan>????1>Antenora>Seira>????2>Alicia>Latha>Donald>Oberuth(Holding)'
[19:47] <Kotono> > Esthan takes a few steps back, trying to regroup! But Oberuth charges him at the same time, as words of power are weaved around him!
[19:47] <Kotono> > roll 1d20+21 (+1 haste, +2 heroism, -8 PA)
[19:47] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 (+1 haste, +2 heroism, -8 PA) and gets 31." [1d20=10]
[19:47] <Kotono> > roll 1d8+2d6+21
[19:47] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+2d6+21 and gets 30." [1d8=5][2d6=1, 3]
[19:47] <Kotono> > roll 2d8+2d6+42+1d6
[19:47] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8+2d6+42+1d6 and gets 58." [2d8=2, 1][2d6=4, 4][1d6=5]
[19:47] <Kotono> > roll 1d20+46 concentration attempt go
[19:47] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+46 concentration attempt go and gets 62." [1d20=16]
03[19:48] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[19:53] <Kotono> Esthan is stabbed in the throat, his words dying in a moment of misconcentration and blood! "Guh..." He coughs again, "Very good..." He grimaces, as a wave of terror washes over the party! OOC: Fear aura. Will saves if you're not immune to fear?
[19:54] <Alicia> OOC: +10 everyone!
[19:54] <Alicia> OOC: morale, and +6 resistance from Latha
[19:54] <Alicia> roll 1d20+41
06[19:54] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+41 and gets 58." [1d20=17]
[19:55] <Kotono> OOC: Antenora is in a holy fury and immune. Donald's next.
01[19:55] <Seira> roll 1d20+35
06[19:55] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+35 and gets 53." [1d20=18]
[19:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+23 Donald
06[19:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+23 Donald and gets 32." [1d20=9]
[19:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+29 Latha
06[19:56] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+29 Latha and gets 42." [1d20=13]
[19:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+26 Oberuth
06[19:56] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+26 Oberuth and gets 38." [1d20=12]
[20:03] <Kotono> A wave of the utmost terror assails the party, buckling them! But nonetheless they hold on, courage coming from deep within! One of the elves shifts! In it's place is an ice blue Gelugon, freezing cold and terrible! Yet it is muscled, far more developed than before! With a nimble gesture of it's hand, a cone of cold gushes out, freezing a pair of the elves! As this happens, the two flashfrozen, "Do you want the entire city to be frozen ali
[20:03] <Kotono> As this happens, the two flashfrozen, "Do you want the entire city to be frozen alive," Esthan gasps, holding his wounds and throat. "If you defeat me here...this entire city...dies!"
[20:04] <Kotono> roll 15d6
06[20:04] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 15d6 and gets 48." [15d6=3, 3, 3, 2, 3, 3, 1, 6, 5, 1, 6, 4, 4, 1, 3]
01[20:05] <Seira> "You are not in a position to be bargaining," Seira snaps at Esthan. "You are in a position to be bleeding to death! Antenora, take that bastard out!"
[20:06] <Alicia> "Follow his orders and you won't be given the chance to respawn in Hell when we kill you, I promise you that!" Alicia glares hatefully at the murderous gelugon.
[20:07] <Kotono> Antenora takes those words to heart, screaming as she steps a little forward and lashes out over and over at Esthan!
[20:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 (+2 GMW, +1 haste, +2 bane, +2 FS, -10 PA)
06[20:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 (+2 GMW, +1 haste, +2 bane, +2 FS, -10 PA) and gets 25." [1d20=4]
[20:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+23 (+2 GMW, +1 haste, +2 bane, +2 FS, -10 PA, +7 smite)
06[20:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+23 (+2 GMW, +1 haste, +2 bane, +2 FS, -10 PA, +7 smite) and gets 31." [1d20=8]
[20:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11 (+2 GMW, +1 haste, +2 bane, +2 FS, -10 PA)
06[20:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 (+2 GMW, +1 haste, +2 bane, +2 FS, -10 PA) and gets 17." [1d20=6]
[20:10] <Kotono> roll 1d8+44+2d6+1d6
06[20:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+44+2d6+1d6 and gets 57." [1d8=2][2d6=3, 6][1d6=2]
[20:10] <Kotono> OOC: +2 more.
[20:11] <Kotono> Antenora catches Esthan once, stabbing into his weakened guts! She rips out her spear, "Then we'll do something about it! We're not going to be paralysed again by another domineering threat!" OOC: Seira.
03[20:12] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth=Esthan>????1>Antenora>Seira>????2>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
03[20:14] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth=Esthan>Gelugon>Antenora>Seira>????2>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
01[20:15] <Seira> "That means you," Seira tells Esthan, smirking at him. The faster he is taken down, the lesser the casualties, and treating the harm to the bystanders as insignificant just might make the devils see that tactic as a failed one. "So how does it feel to be the one sold out by the higher ups for a change, eh Esthan?"
01[20:15] <Seira> She raises the bow, and an arrow of brilliant energy appears notched in it for the briefest of moments, before she sends it at the fiend, two lesser arrows of light joining it a moment later.
01[20:15] <Seira> roll 1d20+23 impromptu SA, disjointing
06[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+23 impromptu SA, disjointing and gets 24." [1d20=1]
01[20:15] <Seira> roll 1d20+23 we all knew it was coming
06[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+23 we all knew it was coming and gets 29." [1d20=6]
01[20:16] <Seira> roll 1d20+18
06[20:16] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+18 and gets 31." [1d20=13]
[20:16] <Kotono> OOC: Last one hits.
01[20:16] <Seira> roll 3d6+5
06[20:16] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 3d6+5 and gets 14." [3d6=5, 3, 1]
06[20:16] * Seira calls upon her stronger Mirror Image spell after that, images springing up!
01[20:16] <Seira> roll 1d4
06[20:16] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d4 and gets 4." [1d4=4]
[20:18] <Kotono> Seira fires three arrows! One of them narroly hits, while the magic disjoining one misses and is wasted! As Esthan staggers, a force arrow ripping through his shoulder, the other elf transforms as well! It is another muscular, dominating gelugon! With a quick motion, it freezes another poor elf to death! The elves, watchinga nd just starting to reach, scream! A few start to run away! Licking his lips with a bloody tongue, "How many...will
[20:18] <Kotono> Licking his lips with a bloody tongue, "How many...will die...your hands..." Esthan gasps! OOC: Alicia.
[20:19] <Alicia> "You three, for a start!" Alicia snaps back as she nimbly ducks amidst the trio battling at Esthan's exposed side, attempting to slip around to his exposed flank and stab him!
[20:19] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18 DC 25 tumble to get through him
06[20:19] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 DC 25 tumble to get through him and gets 32." [1d20=14]
[20:19] <Alicia> roll 1d20+24 knowledge devotion
06[20:19] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+24 knowledge devotion and gets 30." [1d20=6]
[20:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28 -6pa flanking divine might 4th level arcane strike critical strike
06[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 -6pa flanking divine might 4th level arcane strike critical strike and gets 46." [1d20=18]
[20:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28 -6pa flanking divine might 4th level arcane strike critical strike crit check
06[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 -6pa flanking divine might 4th level arcane strike critical strike crit check and gets 31." [1d20=3]
[20:21] <Kotono> OOC: Crit.
[20:21] <Alicia> roll 2d8+56+1d6+4d4
06[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 2d8+56+1d6+4d4 and gets 82." [2d8=4, 8][1d6=5][4d4=4, 2, 2, 1]
[20:22] <Alicia> roll 1d4 negative levels from channeled enervation
06[20:22] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 negative levels from channeled enervation and gets 3." [1d4=3]
[20:22] <Alicia> OOC: and he's dimensionally anchored
03[20:23] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth>Gelugon>Antenora>Seira>Gelugon2>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
[20:23] <Kotono> Stabbing Esthan in the back, his body goes rigid! He slides off Alicia's sword and onto his knees, half kneeling and out! Gasping as he does, "Heheh...hehe...don't think...that I didn't prepare...punishment...if this..." Then he's down, down and out! OOC: Latha's up.
[20:26] <Alicia> 'Hold on a second and I'll take down the wall so we can kill those gelugons,' Alicia sends telepathically as Esthan is disabled.
[20:27] <Kotono> Latha looks down at Esthan, "Got it," she breathes back, eyes burning vengence as she watches the gelugons! Donald does the same, holding, as does Oberuth! The first gelugon rushes towards the door, going for the last fleeing elf in the room in a clawing charge!
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 (-6 PA)
06[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 (-6 PA) and gets 35." [1d20=14]
[20:28] <Kotono> roll 1d10+18
06[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d10+18 and gets 19." [1d10=1]
[20:28] <Kotono> Blood goes splattering as the elf's back is clawed away, it's broken body tossed aside like a bit of broken matchwood!  Antenora growls deep in her throat, as she waits just a little more! OOC: Seira?
06[20:32] * Seira bets on the mangled elf still being alive, trying to switch places with him and prevent the devils from rushing out of the inn the normal way, while delivering the victim towards Latha and others who might heal him.
[20:33] <Kotono> Seira is in luck, for the teleport works, the elf and Seira switching places!
06[20:34] * Seira imbues herself with Waukeen's gift, stepping right next to the nearest devil as she draws the other Resort.
[20:35] <Kotono> The second gelugon makes gestures as a freezing pentagram appears beneath it's feet!
[20:35] <Kotono> roll 1d100
06[20:35] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 24." [1d100=24]
[20:35] <Kotono> roll 1d6
06[20:35] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6 and gets 6." [1d6=6]
[20:38] <Kotono> The guts of the inn between the wall and door are now filled with Hamatula! Six of them, a barrier of diabolical power between Seira and the gelugons vs the party! OOC: More, Hamatula are up.
03[20:38] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth>Gelugon>Antenora>Seira>Gelugon2=Hamatulax6>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
[20:40] <Kotono> The Hamatula turn as one at the gelugon's gesture towards Seira, six unholy blights ripping at her with a terrible diabolical fury! OOC: Six will saves.
01[20:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+24
01[20:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+24
01[20:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+24
06[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+24 and gets 37." [1d20=13]
06[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+24 and gets 41." [1d20=17]
06[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+24 and gets 28." [1d20=4]
01[20:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+24
06[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+24 and gets 27." [1d20=3]
01[20:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+24
06[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+24 and gets 31." [1d20=7]
01[20:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+24
06[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+24 and gets 26." [1d20=2]
[20:42] <Kotono> roll 5d8 halve this 1
06[20:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 halve this 1 and gets 22." [5d8=6, 2, 5, 6, 3]
[20:42] <Kotono> roll 5d8 halve this
06[20:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 halve this  and gets 27." [5d8=6, 7, 8, 2, 4]
[20:42] <Kotono> roll 5d8 halve this 3
06[20:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 halve this 3 and gets 16." [5d8=2, 2, 2, 2, 8]
[20:42] <Kotono> roll 5d8 halve this 4
06[20:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 halve this 4 and gets 27." [5d8=6, 2, 5, 8, 6]
[20:42] <Kotono> roll 5d8 halve this 5
06[20:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 halve this 5 and gets 22." [5d8=6, 8, 1, 3, 4]
[20:42] <Kotono> roll 5d8 halve this 6
06[20:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 halve this 6 and gets 23." [5d8=1, 2, 8, 6, 6]
[20:43] <Kotono> Seira is lost in as ea of black horrors, consumed! She concentrates and utters a few words magic, repelling the worst away and enduring the storm, hurt but intact! OOC: Alicia.
[20:44] <Alicia> With a sweep of her hand, Alicia drops the diagonal wall of force, exposing the summoned horrors to the aura of her blade that so detests extraplanar creatures trespassing on the prime. "Now!"
[20:44] <Alicia> OOC: DC 20 will or gtfo if you're a summon
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 will 1
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 will 1 and gets 29." [1d20=17]
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 will 2
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 will 2 and gets 13." [1d20=1]
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 will 3
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 will 3 and gets 30." [1d20=18]
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 will 4
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 will 4 and gets 22." [1d20=10]
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 will 5
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 will 5 and gets 31." [1d20=19]
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 will 6
06[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 will 6 and gets 19." [1d20=7]
03[20:44] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth>Gelugon>Antenora>Seira>Gelugon2=Hamatulax4>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
[20:44] <Kotono> Two of the hamatula shudder and vanish away!
[20:45] <Kotono> OOC: Anything else this round or was that it, Alicia?
[20:45] <Alicia> OOC: that's me done
[20:46] <Kotono> OOC: I'll have the NPCs go in order since they were holding. Makes it easier for me to manage than putting them all = anyway, and there's ont much difference.
[20:46] <Kotono> Latha kneels besides the wounded elf, mending his wounds!
[20:46] <Kotono> roll 1d8+5
06[20:46] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+5 and gets 12." [1d8=7]
[20:46] <Kotono> His wounds recover, his eyes cracking open! OOC: Donald.
[20:48] <Alicia> OOC: oh, using my move action to channel an enervation, actually, so noted
[20:49] <Kotono> Donald hangs back just a moment, crafting an enervation that fires at the first gelugon!
[20:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 touch
06[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 touch and gets 25." [1d20=9]
[20:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 SR
06[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 SR and gets 16." [1d20=3]
[20:49] <Kotono> The magic spell crumbles against the gelugon, failing to penetrate it's planar power! OOC: Oberuth.
01[20:50] <Seira> 'Donald, you've got the hammer of smiting devils, use it!' Seira thinks at her protege, glaring at the gelugons while dismissing the hamatula as a minor annoyance.
[20:51] <Kotono> Oberuth charges to righ tin front of the two hamatula in the middle, "Come at me, all of you! I'll rip you to devil-bleeding shreds!" Establishing himself there firmly, Oberuth strikes at the left-center one!
[20:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+29 (+1 haste, +2 heroism, +1 str from stance, also bumps con by four for HP in topic)
06[20:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+29 (+1 haste, +2 heroism, +1 str from stance, also bumps con by four for HP in topic) and gets 45." [1d20=16]
[20:52] <Kotono> roll 1d8+3d6+17
06[20:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+3d6+17 and gets 38." [1d8=8][3d6=4, 3, 6]
[20:53] <Kotono> roll 1d8+6 barbed defense damage on Oberuth
06[20:53] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+6 barbed defense damage on Oberuth and gets 12." [1d8=6]
03[20:54] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth>Antenora>Gelugon>Seira>Gelugon2=Hamatulax4>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
[20:54] <Kotono> OOC: Antenora's taking her held action next.
[20:55] <Kotono> Oberuth wades into the middle of the pack! Antenora follows, just off the ground as she charges and stabs at the same one Oberuth hit, keeping her distance!
[20:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+25 (+1 haste, +2 GMW, +2 charge, +1 flying, +2 FS 6/9, -7 PA)
06[20:56] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+25 (+1 haste, +2 GMW, +2 charge, +1 flying, +2 FS 6/9, -7 PA) and gets 27." [1d20=2]
[20:57] <Kotono> Antenora's spear is deflected off a barb, missing the soft body underneath it's barbed defenses! OOC: Gelugon 1 is up.
[20:59] <Kotono> The first one turns back to Seira, loosing a massive cone of cold at it, one that doesn't even seem to bother the other gelugon! OOC: Ref, Seira.
[20:59] <Kotono> OOC: Strike.
[20:59] <Kotono> The first one focuses on Seira next to him, loosing a massive cone of cold at her! OOC: Ref, Seira.
01[21:00] <Seira> roll 1d20+27
06[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+27 and gets 38." [1d20=11]
[21:01] <Kotono> Seira dances out of the way, avoiding the cone entirely! OOC: Seira.
06[21:02] * Seira leaves her sword in Lagann's capable hands, gesturing at the gelugon, and an orb of electricity strikes at her target in retaliation!
01[21:02] <Seira> roll 1d20+17 ranged touch
06[21:02] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+17 ranged touch and gets 26." [1d20=9]
[21:03] <Kotono> OOC: Hit.
01[21:03] <Seira> roll 1.5*15d6 fort dc24 or entangled
06[21:03] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1.5*15d6 fort dc24 or entangled and gets 97.5." [15d6=1, 6, 6, 6, 6, 4, 4, 3, 2, 5, 3, 6, 6, 2, 5]
[21:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
06[21:04] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 and gets 29." [1d20=11]
[21:04] <Kotono> OOC: Goa head and resolve Lagann?
01[21:04] <Seira> OOC: He's just holding it for me
06[21:04] * Seira keeps herself near the gelugon, and between it and the door out.
[21:05] <Kotono> The gelugon is shocked all over, taking the orb right in the chest! It withstands the blow, but is shaken! OOC: gelugon and hamatula are up.
[21:07] <Kotono> "Finish them!" The second gelugon snaps as it vanishes away! To that, eight rays of fire concentrate onto Oberuth!
[21:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 SR
[21:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 SR
[21:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 SR
[21:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 SR
06[21:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 SR and gets 22." [1d20=10]
06[21:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 SR and gets 21." [1d20=9]
06[21:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 SR and gets 19." [1d20=7]
06[21:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 SR and gets 24." [1d20=12]
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 and gets 22." [1d20=4]
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 and gets 30." [1d20=12]
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 and gets 26." [1d20=8]
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 and gets 32." [1d20=14]
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 and gets 37." [1d20=19]
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 and gets 32." [1d20=14]
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 and gets 38." [1d20=20]
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 and gets 32." [1d20=14]
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 crit check
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 touch vs AC 27 crit check and gets 19." [1d20=1]
[21:08] <Kotono> roll 24d6 Rotten luck.
06[21:08] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 24d6 Rotten luck. and gets 80." [24d6=5, 6, 5, 4, 5, 1, 2, 3, 1, 3, 3, 5, 4, 1, 5, 3, 2, 2, 6, 1, 1, 2, 4, 6]
[21:10] <Kotono> roll 18d6 dur.
06[21:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 18d6 dur. and gets 68." [18d6=6, 2, 5, 6, 5, 2, 2, 4, 3, 4, 1, 6, 1, 3, 3, 6, 3, 6]
[21:12] <Kotono> Oberuth withstands the form, lanced dozens of times but staying up! OOC: Alicia.
06[21:13] * Alicia almost blasts the hamatula with a holy smite, but recalls the elf that Latha just healed. There's too big a risk it would hurt him. So she settles for trying to banish them summoned devils instead, where her sword failed. "Begone, back to the pit!" she snaps, magic unwinding at her command!
[21:14] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 dispel check on hamatula #1
06[21:14] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 dispel check on hamatula #1 and gets 24." [1d20=14]
[21:14] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 dispel check on hamatula #2
06[21:14] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 dispel check on hamatula #2 and gets 29." [1d20=19]
[21:14] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 dispel check on hamatula #3
06[21:14] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 dispel check on hamatula #3 and gets 20." [1d20=10]
[21:14] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 dispel check on hamatula #4
06[21:14] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 dispel check on hamatula #4 and gets 22." [1d20=12]
03[21:14] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth>Antenora>Gelugon>Seira>Gelugon2=Hamatulax3>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
[21:14] <Kotono> Another hamatula vanishes, leaving only three more to fight the party! OOC: That it, Alicia?
[21:15] <Alicia> OOC: I'm done
[21:17] <Kotono> Latha angles, hitting the injured hamatula with the edge of a holy smite!
[21:17] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15
06[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 and gets 22." [1d20=7]
[21:18] <Kotono> But the holy energies crackle and fizzle on the hamatula! OOC: Donald's up.
[21:18] <Kotono> Gathering energy into himself with a few quick words, Donald charges the right most hamatula head on!
[21:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+34 (+2 GMW, +1 haste, +20 true strike, -13 PA)
06[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+34 (+2 GMW, +1 haste, +20 true strike, -13 PA) and gets 35." [1d20=1]
[21:19] <Kotono> Somehow, Donald's foot slips and the Hammer of the Shard slams into the floor instead, his entire charge ruined! OOC: Oberuth
[21:19] <Kotono> Oberuth tears into the wounded hamatula with a fury undimmed by his burning wounds!
[21:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+29
06[21:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+29 and gets 43." [1d20=14]
[21:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+29
06[21:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+29 and gets 33." [1d20=4]
[21:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+24
06[21:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+24 and gets 31." [1d20=7]
[21:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19
06[21:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 and gets 39." [1d20=20]
[21:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 crit check
06[21:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 crit check and gets 24." [1d20=5]
[21:20] <Kotono> roll 4d8+68+12d6
06[21:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d8+68+12d6 and gets 136." [4d8=3, 5, 5, 8][12d6=6, 2, 4, 3, 5, 5, 4, 5, 5, 2, 4, 2]
03[21:20] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth>Antenora>Gelugon>Seira>Gelugon2=Hamatulax2>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
[21:21] <Kotono> roll 1d8+6 barbed defense
06[21:21] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+6 barbed defense and gets 11." [1d8=5]
[21:21] <Kotono> Oberuth ignores the wounds on his wrists as he savagely tears the hamatula apart! It's torn into four parts, falling to the ground and vanishing away! OOC: Alicia.
[21:22] <Kotono> OOC: Er, Antenora. Man.
[21:22] <Kotono> Antenora swiftly moves back, before channeling her boots and charging another of the hamatula!
[21:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+26 (+1 haste, +1 fly, +2 charge, +2 FS 5/9, +2 bane, +2 GMW, +7 smite -15 PA)
06[21:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+26 (+1 haste, +1 fly, +2 charge, +2 FS 5/9, +2 bane, +2 GMW, +7 smite -15 PA) and gets 45." [1d20=19]
[21:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+26 (+1 haste, +1 fly, +2 charge, +2 FS 5/9, +2 bane, +2 GMW, +7 smite -15 PA) crit of owwies?
06[21:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+26 (+1 haste, +1 fly, +2 charge, +2 FS 5/9, +2 bane, +2 GMW, +7 smite -15 PA) crit of owwies? and gets 42." [1d20=16]
03[21:23] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth>Antenora>Gelugon>Seira>Gelugon2=Hamatula>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
[21:24] <Kotono> roll 4d8+1d6+2d6+2d10+252
06[21:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d8+1d6+2d6+2d10+252 and gets 287." [4d8=8, 7, 4, 1][1d6=1][2d6=1, 2][2d10=8, 3]
[21:25] <Kotono> Antenora's charge is nearly perfect, piercing right between it's barbed eyes! It simply fades away, as if it never was, torn asunder thrice over with nary a spark of dissent! OOC: Gelugon.
[21:25] <Kotono> The gelugon scowls and simply vanishes away! OOC: Seira.
03[21:25] * Kotono changes topic to 'Oberuth>Antenora>Seira>Hamatula>Alicia>Latha>Donald'
06[21:26] * Seira scowls and wills the remaining devil to disappear.
01[21:27] <Seira> OOC: dismissal, dc21
[21:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
06[21:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 and gets 18." [1d20=6]
[21:27] <Kotono> The last devil blinks and vanishes away! OOC: Fight's over. Go ahead and act?
06[21:28] * Alicia stabs her sword brutally down into Esthan's form, admittedly it's unlikely to kill him without any holy power, but it'll certainly keep him out for a while.
[21:28] <Alicia> OOC: couping him, basically
06[21:28] * Seira reverts to her usual disguise, placing her weapons away. "If Armanzas is to be believed, this is over."
[21:29] <Kotono> Alicia tears Esthan's throat out again, keeping him down and out!
[21:29] <Alicia> roll 2d8+84
06[21:29] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 2d8+84 and gets 92." [2d8=5, 3]
[21:29] <Alicia> roll 2d4 negative levels
06[21:29] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 2d4 negative levels and gets 6." [2d4=2, 4]
[21:30] <Kotono> Latha goes to the frozen pair of elves, running a hand over each of them and murmuring a prayer in Celestial. She then stands, "I will go dispel the fear that surely spreads through this village. Let them not be afraid of any evil."
[21:30] <Kotono> Oberuth goes over to Esthan, kicking his hood down, "He's still alive...don't devils vanish when they die?"
01[21:30] <Seira> "That's because he's not dead," Seira says, checking up on the elf saved by Latha's efforts.
01[21:31] <Seira> roll 2d8+10 heals
06[21:31] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 2d8+10 heals and gets 20." [2d8=3, 7]
[21:31] <Kotono> The elf's wounds heal further. He stares in utter disbelief, "Oh...oh...oh..."
[21:31] <Alicia> "It takes a holy blade to slay one such as he," Alicia explains, dismissing her disguise. "Donald, would you ensure he stays unconscious? If we kill him now he will merely respawn in the pit."
[21:32] <Kotono> "Oh sure," With the Hammer of the Shard in hand, "Play beat on the devil? I'm game."
01[21:32] <Seira> "Yeah, pretty much," Seira agrees with the stuttering elf. "It wasn't your idea to have a pit fiend waltz into your village. It was just some mad scheme of his, and your bad luck."
06[21:33] * Alicia cancels Antenora's disguise as well, sheathing her sword. "Lets aid Latha? She can take charge of Esthan once we've done what we can here..." she suggests, weary now that the battle is done.
[21:42] <Kotono> OOC: #dunes, Alicia.

---

[21:43] <Kotono> Antenora and Alicia follow Latha out. You find the center of town is in a tizzy, a few elves shouting that horrible nightmares have come to take them all. Several elves are looking and talking, afew obviously in panic.
[21:45] <Alicia> A soothing golden radiance emanates from Alicia's winged form as she stands alongside Latha between the elves and the inn, raising her voice. "People, please," she calls out, loud but gently, "If we can have your attention, we can try to explain the dire events that have occured here, this day."
[21:49] <Kotono> The three angels get attention, glowing Alicia leading the way. The elves stare, terror giving way to rapture.
[21:51] <Alicia> "A pit fiend, greatest devil of the nine hells, walked among you this day," Alicia explains. "It is one that has travelled across Pallanth and beyond, plaguing innocents even as far as the lands beyond the desert and jungle to the far West. Some of you may even have met him, disguised as a human and going by the name of Esthan." (more)
[21:53] <Alicia> "Long have we pursued him, and today we finally had him cornered, and defeated." She lets that sink in for a second, before going on, "Unfortunately, it grieves me to say that he was not caught unawares. His fiendish cohorts struck out wildly in the chaos of battle, slaying three innocent bystanders who were nearby as we confronted him." (more)
06[21:56] * Alicia bows her head. "We grieve for the loss of your neighbours, innocents who's only crime was to be in the same room as a devil. Evil does not go down quietly when confronted, despite all of our efforts to prevent this tragedy. Please, forgive us."
[21:57] <Kotono> OOC: Make diplo, Alicia, +4? Bonus from the aura applies, if it's diplo based. I honestly forget offhand.
[21:57] <Alicia> roll 1d20+36
06[21:57] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+36 and gets 54." [1d20=18]
[22:01] <Kotono> The crowd calms and listens, the fear and tension leaving them. Solemn clapping and cheers are sounded, and a voice from it calls, "It is a sad day, but it seems that great good has been done as well."
[22:04] <Alicia> "That is the best face we can put on things," Alicia nods sollemnly. "Though we strive to win such battles cleanly and decisively, our foes are not to be underestimated, nor the depths they will sink to to inflict pain." Taking a deep breath, "Is there a constable or headman of the village who can come inside to identify the deceased?" she asks.
[22:05] <Kotono> "I am." A lithe male elf approaches, bowing to Alicia. "Great noble spirit, take me to them."
[22:08] <Alicia> "Please, just call me Alicia," the paladin requests, guiding the elf into the inn.
[22:08] <Kotono> The thre ehead back to the inn with the elf in tow. Here Oberuth keeps watch, while Donald gleefully smashes Esthan around. The elf goes to the two bodies, sighing lightly and murmuring a few words by each of them.
06[22:10] * Alicia winces inwardly at the scene Donald and Esthan make. "The fiend regenerates much like a troll," she explains, "We must keep him subdued until we're able to remove him." Putting that aside, she regards the frozen corpses sadly, "Do they have families?"
[22:10] <Kotono> "They do." He rises, "I must go break this news to them."
[22:13] <Alicia> "Thank you, it would probably be easier coming from someone they know. Once we have dealt with the fiend we will return so that restitution can be made," Alicia offers delicately.
[22:14] <Kotono> "I understand," He nods shortly to that, "I will tell them."
[22:15] <Alicia> "Antenora, can you dispel the dimensional anchor on Esthan?" Alicia asks her friend. "I'm sure Celestia has the resources to keep him captive and get out all the secrets bouncing around his head..." she adds to Latha.
[22:18] <Kotono> Antenora goes and does that, applying her magic in the meantime. "Is hall take him there, then. I will be in contact with yo usoon."
[22:21] <Alicia> "Make sure he ends up somewhere he can't ever escape from," Alicia nods grimly. "I have no desire to go through this again."
[22:23] <Kotono> "I promise," Antenora agrees solmenly. "Until we meet again."
[22:24] <Alicia> OOC: Anty?
[22:24] <Kotono> OOC: Latha, dur.
[22:26] <Alicia> roll 1d100 home
06[22:26] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d100 home and gets 47." [1d100=47]
[22:32] <Alicia> roll 1d100 front door of Reynes manor
06[22:32] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d100 front door of Reynes manor and gets 90." [1d100=90]
[22:33] <Alicia> OOC: very familiar, so on target

---

[21:42] <Kotono> The elf stares at Seira, "Oh. I'm not hurt. Just...oh...oh..."
01[21:43] <Seira> Not anymore, he isn't. "I'll ask Waukeen for help with those who weren't as fortunate," she promises to him, helping the elf to his feet. "She is very busy, but there's always a chance she would smile on us."
[21:46] <Kotono> "Y-yes..." As the elf stammers, Donald whistles and slams the Hammer of the Shard into Esthan's groin a few times.
01[21:46] <Seira> "Yes, Donald, you keep on... doing that. Call me if there's anything." With those words, Seira decides to guide the traumatized elf out of the inn, and hopefully towards his home.
[21:50] <Kotono> Wham! Wham! WHAAAM! Seira hears this as she leads the elf a few trees down. He stays outside the door, "Thank you," He manages, "Thank you. Thank you." Licking his lips, "Um...thank you, yes. C-can I ask your name?"
01[21:51] <Seira> "It's Seira. The crazy elf's Donald, and with him there is Commander Oberuth. He has a proper full name and everything, but we tend to call him The Commander. You've seen him in action, I'm sure you understand why. And the ones who stepped out before are Alicia, Antenora and Latha. Now we're all acquainted, aren't we?"
[21:55] <Kotono> "Ah...y-yeah." Rubbing his head, "Wait! Seira?! I've heardof you!" His eyes widen, "I heard you're an honored face in the court of His Majesty! Are you the same Seira as that?"
01[21:57] <Seira> "Who knows?" Seira shrugs. "So many of us floating around. But more to the point, who can I talk to about helping with the repairs of the inn? I don't feel right just leaving like this, and it's not something I can trouble Waukeen with, unlike the other request."
[22:00] <Kotono> "Ah...Syrana wasn't in right now..." Gathering himself, "That...that would be appreciated, ma'am. I can get thehelp to them."
01[22:01] <Seira> roll 1d20+15 appraise for the general area
06[22:01] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+15 appraise for the general area and gets 16." [1d20=1]
06[22:06] * Seira retrieves five gems, handing them over to her traveling companion. "This looks like it'll cover me. You certainly know how to find me if it's not enough, and if I overshot the target, just... do something nice for the kids with the remainder, will you?"
[22:07] <Kotono> "Oh...th-thank you," The gems are taken with wid eeyes. "I will. Seira," He looks to her, "I won't forget today. All of you...this is like a dream I'll never be able to forget."
01[22:09] <Seira> "You'll need to get over to introducing yourself if you want me to reciprocate," Seira notes with a teasing smile.
[22:10] <Kotono> "A...Ardan." He manages to get out.
01[22:11] <Seira> "I have a good memory, so I'll remember you," she promises. "I'll stop by in a while, once things calm down. If there's anything I can do to help your village at that time, don't hesitate to ask."
[22:13] <Kotono> "I'll remmeber that." Arwan agrees.
03[22:52] * Demedais is now known as WyrmYearRecursMillenially
[22:52] <Alicia> roll 3d8+15
06[22:52] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d8+15 and gets 27." [3d8=6, 4, 2]

[Corwin]

[20:12] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> ----
[20:13] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Woosh! Seira and Alicia appear at the front door of the Reynes estate. A drizzling rain falls around them, the ground muddy. The manor house stands as it always has, a pair of men in armor near the door. They double-blink before they see Alicia. "Ma'am," they step aside.
[20:14] <Alicia> OOC: Anty's here, too
[20:15] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> OOC: She is? Okay.
06[20:15] * Alicia nods to the mercenaries, keeping things civil for the time being. "Are my mother and father home at present?" she asks of them.
06[20:15] * Seira gives them a wave from behind Alicia.
[20:15] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "They are." With a nod, "We have not seen them leave, ma'am."
[20:16] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "What about your boss or anyone else?" Antenora asks, "Elias Sandsmith?"
[20:17] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "No, ma'am," They reply again.
[20:18] <Alicia> "Thanks," Alicia nods, going to open the door and head inside - making sure to wipe her feet beforehand, given the mud.
[20:21] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> You find Alicia's Mother coming down the stairs. She looks down, "Oh, Alicia? You're home?" she slowly comes down, favoring her left leg. "The weather is miserable as always, is it not?"
06[20:22] * Seira follows Alicia inside, keeping her feet clean.
[20:22] <Alicia> "It wouldn't be Kelara otherwise," Alicia smiles wanly, going over to kiss her mother on the cheek. "Did you hurt your leg?" she asks in slight concern, looking down at the favoured limb.
[20:23] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "I'm recovering from a sprain. I slipped in a bit of mud," Using the stair's railing to support herself, "Terrible fortune. Alicia, you look poorly."
[20:25] <Alicia> "It's been a trying day," Alicia admits. "Here, let me heal you with Mystra's blessings, then we can all sit down and talk - is father home?" she asks, putting a hand on Beatrice's leg and channelling healing energy into her.
[20:25] <Alicia> OOC: lay on hands, whatever's needed
[20:26] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> OOC: 1 point.
[20:28] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "He's talking about important business right now." Once healed, "Antenora, I believe? I don't think I've met you." With a look and a polite smile to Seira, "You are...?"
06[20:28] * Seira smiles back! "Seira! It is very nice to finally meet you, Ma'am."
[20:29] <Alicia> "Colonel Seira," Alicia amends with a smile. "She's my commanding officer in the Crimson Guard of the United Baronies."
[20:30] <Alicia> 'Mother will like you more if she knows you have status,' she then sends telepathically to Seira with a hint of embarrassment.
01[20:31] <Seira> 'I see,' Seira responds likewise, deciding to go along with it.
[20:33] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Ah, Colonel Seira." With a curtesy, albiet a hobbling one, "Welcome. Come with me." She leads the party upstairs. She settles them in on the third floor, a roaring fireplace battling off the chilly humidity. Tea, hand cakes and little bits of fancy sandwiches are brought in to snack on. "Arthur should be along in a little while."
06[20:34] * Seira settles down with a cake and some tea, observing the surroundings Alicia grew up in.
06[20:34] * Alicia helps herself to the snacks, content to exchange pleasantries until her father arrives so as to avoid having to repeat herself. "So, have things settled down now since that rebellion sputtered to a halt?"
[20:34] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Antenora forsakes the foods, sitting close to the fire and drying her hands off in the flames. "Thank you."
[20:35] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> It's a warm, well built manor house. It has the trappings of minor nobility, money without being terribly rich. The silver is good, the walls are relatively clean and well kept. There's artistic decorations and style to the design. Out the windows you can see vineyards stretching back a ways.
[20:36] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Oh yes, somewhat. There's talk and talk and talk and politics in the city, but such is the way of the world." Sampling some tea, "Colonel, is this your first time in Kelara?"
01[20:37] <Seira> "I've visited before," Seira responds, placing her teacup down. "Twice, I believe. But not for long, I'm afraid."
[20:38] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "I confess that I have a strong curiosity about you. With the tales of the Crimson Guard that have filtered to here, your name is amid them, as well as Alicia's. Will you be in the city long?"
01[20:40] <Seira> "I'm required to appear in Pallanth later today, but there's nothing preventing me from returning the day after," Seira responds, after thinking it over. "Is there anything in particular you are curious about?"
[20:41] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Oh yes. But further, so is society at large." With a coy look, "Surely you would be well received as my guest at coming functions. I can introduce you around Kelara."
01[20:42] <Seira> "I can be very sociable," Seira agrees.
06[20:43] * Alicia never got introduced anywhere! It's not something she cares for overly much... still, it's hard not to feel a little bit slighted. "Mother, you mentioned father was discussing important business right now? Can you tell us what that's about?"
[20:44] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Lovely!" With a cheerful smile to that, "Your clothes would go over well the first time. They're very..." Rubbing her chin, "Oh!" To Ailcia now, "He's discussing a contract with a merchant."
01[20:45] <Seira> 'Is that something he does for a living, or something that came up at the last moment?' Seira thinks to Alicia, smiling pleasantly at her mother.
[20:46] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Antenora goes and gets a few hand cakes, nibbling on one. "If Kelara is settling down, that means trade isn't impeded at all?"
[20:46] <Alicia> 'Presumably it's a merchant who'll want to sell his wine outside of Kelara,' Alicia presumes, 'I've even seen bottles of it in Balmuria, so it can end up going quite far.'
[20:47] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "I imagine so, yes." With a slight nod to that, "With winter coming there's less trade, but if things stay well, next season will be good."
[20:49] <Alicia> "I'm glad things are recovering," Alicia smiles, knowing better than to ask her mother about how people in the countryside are feeling these days. She can investigate that herself once her own agenda has settled.
[20:49] <Alicia> "I'm actually planning to speak with Dweomerkeeper Taldeer about building a college of alchemy in the city, so hopefully that will provide new opportunities for Kelara once it gets going."
06[20:49] * Alicia blinks a moment and looks at Antenora oddly, before quickly schooling her expression.
01[20:50] <Seira> "Boosting knowledge, travel and trade? A worthy goal indeed," Seira agrees.
[20:50] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Yes, Alicia. College?" Turning to her, "Alchemy? That's the processes that make those overpriced trinkets for mercenaries?"
[20:50] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Antenora shrugs.
01[20:51] <Seira> "Trying to make them accessable for everyone, and thus selling more of them while expanding the variety quite a bit? I doubt they would stay as trinkets and curios for long."
[20:52] <Alicia> "Potions, mother," Alicia explains patiently. "Magic in a bottle! Things like simple healing potions are common enough, but of late we've recovered far more exotic potions that hint to knowledge lost to the world. If it could be recaptured it would be a boon for all."
[20:52] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Really?" Nodding to Seira, "Business chances...mmmm. You know Alicia, if this is your venture..." Thinking on it, "What sort of exotic potions?"
06[20:52] * Seira looks at Alicia expectantly as well.
[20:54] <Alicia> "Well, healing is one thing, but we've found potions that allow a person to regenerate much like a troll - only without the unfortunate skin tone and odour," she smiles lightly. "And one that can change a person's form irrevocably and permanently. Even such things as fertility potions."
[20:54] <Alicia> "That sort of magic can't be brewed in this day and age, at least certainly not with common knowledge. I'm hoping with dedicated study that can change, and Kelara could be at the forefront of it."
[20:57] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "What-" Just as Beatrice starts to speak, Alicia's father enters in. He comes in, going to Alicia. "Welcome home, Alicia."
06[20:59] * Alicia stands up, smiling at her father and giving him a kiss on the cheek. "Hello, father. I'm glad to see you're well."
[21:08] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "You as well." Patting his daughter on both shoulders before he sits, "You wanted to talk to us?"
[21:09] <Alicia> "That's right," Alicia sits down again as well. "You recall that Esthan person I warned you about before?" she begins.
[21:09] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Arthur's face darkens. "I do, Alicia. I remember him very well."
[21:11] <Alicia> "Well, you don't have to worry about him anymore," Alicia smiles slightly at the knowledge of having him taken out of the equation. "Today we found and defeated him, and right now he's enjoying the highest security incarcaration that the heavens can offer."
01[21:12] <Seira> "Well, enjoying might not be the right word," Seira comments.
[21:15] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Arthur smiles a little at that, while Beatrice smiles with a brittle air. "Congratulations," Arthur offers.
06[21:18] * Alicia nods. "The good news is that since he's now captive, our friends in the heavens should be able to get details of all his schemes and plots, allowing them to be undone. However, during the battle he implied there would be consequences for his defeat - we don't know anything more right now, but he could have his allies strike out at us in revenge."
[21:18] <Alicia> "I wanted you to know so you can be careful until everything settles down."
[21:20] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "We will be." With his own little smile, "Are you seriously worried about this happening, Alicia?"
01[21:21] <Seira> "Better safe than sorry, right?" Seira voices.
[21:22] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Yes." AS Beatrice speaks up now, "Esthan...he still seems like hwa sn't that bad a person."
[21:24] <Alicia> "I'm confident that before long we'll be able to eliminate all of Esthan's resources in our world, but there is a danger in the short term," Alicia nods, before looking seriously at her mother, "He was a creature of deceit and trickery. When we fought him he ordered his allies to attack surrounding innocents rather than defend him, that's how depraved he truly is."
[21:24] <Alicia> *He is
[21:24] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "I can't believe that." Beatrice looks at Alicia now, "It seems so improbable, even with what you've said."
[21:25] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Alicia isn't a liar, dear," Arthur turns his eyes to her, the two meeting eyes together. "If she said that, it's not going to be wrong, no matter how improbable."
01[21:25] <Seira> "Most fiends don't really bother with subtlety on such a scale," Seira says. "Those that do are an anomaly, and one should always watch out for the unique ones. If he had just slipped and let everyone see past his mask, he wouldn't be a very successful pit fiend, would he?"
[21:28] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Any lowly fiend can be a murdering monster. Only a dangerous one has subtlely. Esthan is very dangerous," Antenora grimly smiles, "Trust us, we know this fact very well."
[21:29] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Beatrice murmurs, "Very well."
[21:31] <Alicia> "More immediately pertinent are the mercenaries working for you," Alicia speaks up. "They're working at a cheap rate because Esthan bought them off. It's possible they may have orders to turn on you now that he's gone - I intend to have a chat with Mr Sandsmith shortly to ensure that doesn't happen."
[21:32] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Truly?!" Beatrice boggles, "They've been so loyal and well mannered to us the entire time!"
[21:34] <Alicia> "Don't forget the loyal servants who turned on their masters during the rebellion earlier this year, mother," Alicia reminds Beatrice. "From when I talked to them the last time they did seem legitimate, but I want to make sure they stay that way now that the situation is changed."
01[21:34] <Seira> "The situation, meaning the loss of their supplementary income?"
06[21:36] * Alicia nods. "They might simply renegotiate a higher fee and carry on as normal. In that case I'll do what I can to make up for your expense," she tells her parents.
[21:37] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "We'll see to it," Arthur cuts Beatrice off. "Thank you, Alicia. If you're worried about the mercenaries, go and deal with Elias."
[21:38] <Alicia> "Is he still staying at the Seafoam inn?" Alicia asks.
[21:42] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Yes. Third floor." Arthur confirms.
[21:43] <Alicia> "We'll go have a word and then let you know how it turns out," Alicia smiles reassuringly as she gets up to leave.
01[21:44] <Seira> 'Want me to stay behind, just in case?' Seira thinks to Alicia.
[21:45] <Alicia> 'Might be a good idea, actually,' Alicia agrees. 'Mother seems to like you, at least.'
01[21:47] <Seira> "Do have fun," Seira voices, before turning towards Beatrice. "I'm not imposing, am I? It would be nice to hear more about Alicia while she's at her business meeting."
[21:48] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> OOC: I'll toss you and Antenora into #evil, Alicia.

---

[21:49] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------(Magnum Ko Loop)--
[21:51] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> The third floor of the Seafoam is as Alicia remembers it. Elias Sandsmith lies on a couch as you enter. "Alicia Reynes again?" He looks to her, "Ah yes, I remember you."
[21:52] <Alicia> "Well met, Elias Sandsmith" Alicia returns levelly. "I trust all has been well for you and yours since our last conversation?"
[21:54] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Passable," He sits up on the couch a bit, "What's your business with me today?"
[21:54] <Alicia> "Your benefactor, Esthan, is gone from this world," Alicia explains bluntly. "He won't be returning. I wanted to know how this would affect your arrangement with my family."
[21:56] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Well." Sitting up now, "You killed him?"
06[21:58] * Alicia shakes her head. "No. Tempting as it was, we decided it would be more productive to take him alive. Regardless, he has been moved to a location in another realm, one that he is highly unlikely to ever leave."
[21:59] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Taking your words on face value?" Sitting forward and looking into Alicia's eyes, "He paid us nine months ahead. After that, we'll see."
[22:00] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 sense motive
06[22:00] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 sense motive and gets 20." [1d20=7]
[22:02] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> roll 1d20+7 will
06[22:02] * Hatbot --> "Ko-TerrorofMrNTori rolls 1d20+7 will and gets 9." [1d20=2]
[22:03] <Alicia> "Your company is well regarded, Mr Sandsmith," Alicia inclines her head, "All I can ask is that you treat your clients fairly. I simply wanted to make sure you weren't involved in any contingencies that Esthan may have prepared for this occassion."
[22:05] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "He paid us, that's all."
[22:07] <Alicia> "Fair enough," Alicia accepts that. "Fair warning, though, if he does have any sort of revenge attack plotted, you might find yourself having to really earn that pay."
[22:13] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "This has been an easy job. Jobs never stay easy forever." With a little bit of a curt smirk, "By the way. Was all you said about Esthan the last time true?"
[22:14] <Alicia> "Every bit of it," Alicia confirms. "Why?"
[22:17] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "I put out some feelers about what you said and what Esthan said." Putting his feet up now, "I hear my feelers suffered severe setbacks in the category of living, especially when it involved things like the Order of the Lie and the Spark Hunters."
[22:20] <Alicia> "Esthan is in very high up with the Spark Hunters. They attacked me in Balmuria at his behest and the one we interrogated spoke very highly of him," Alicia confirms. "The Order of the Lie is murkier. He professed to be eluding them at one point, but I find that hard to believe given his otherwise priveleged position."
[22:20] <Alicia> "Still, I'm certain the truth will come out once my allies have interrogated him."
[22:22] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "I don't really want to know. Curiosity already got friends of friends killed." With a tsk-tsk of his tongue, "What I'm getting at is that I suspect Esthan may have had a role in it. If he's what you say he is...It all does fit together. That's all."
[22:26] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "That may be safest. If you don't have any stake in finding out, don't. Hell has a very long memory." Antenora raps on her breastplate, "I know very well."
06[22:26] * Alicia nods. "He's worked very hard to keep his secrets secret," she muses. "Anyway, I'm glad we know where things stand. May the Red Knight watch over your battles, Elias," she bids him goodbye.

---

[21:52] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Once Alicia has left, "Oh, of course." With a little nodding along, "What do you want to know, Colonel? Oh, and ohw is Alicia doing in Balmuria?" Beatrice speaks, as Arthur gets himself some tea.
01[21:58] <Seira> "She's doing quite well for herself," Seira responds, refilling her cup. "Serving as an inspiration for the common folk, building a temple, opposing evil where evil raises its head. Does her job quite admirably." She takes a sip, before adding, "I'm somewhat worried she's not having enough fun, however, and she's sometimes too secretive. Can you imagine that I still don't even know when her birthday is?"
[22:05] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "She's always been very serious," Beatrice agrees, "You are her commanding officer. Perhaps she doesn't feel it's approriate? Though, I imagine you could ask Antenora. They seem to be close friends."
01[22:06] <Seira> "But I don't try to act... well, strict or commanding, really," Seira protests. And she hadn't, not for a very long time. "If I ask Antenora, whether I get an answer or not, she'll just run back to Alicia and then I can't have a surprise party for her."
[22:15] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Beatrice laughs to that, "Oh, you sound more like her friend now. I see. It's in April."
01[22:18] <Seira> "I try to be," Seira admits, "but it can be difficult. Still, that's just cause to try harder! I think I'm actually doing better at it nowadays." She ponders the answer for a few moments. "April? That's still a few months away. Plenty of time to plot something. She'll never suspect a thing!"
[22:19] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "If you're her friend," Beatrice continues on, "Has she been dating at all? It's been...a fair and long time since she suffered her tragedy. I worry she's going to never find another person to take care of her, truly."
01[22:26] <Seira> "There was one date, I believe," Seira responds, "but I wouldn't put much hope into that. Though unless it's Lathander or Helm or Mystra in avatar form, say, I doubt there's anyone who could take care of Alicia, rather than the other way around."
[22:28] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Chuckling at that, as Arthur stands up and excuses himself, "True. She has friends to take care of her as well. The last night she was here..." Thinking back, "She was shaken up over something, but Antenora attended to her. She's a very good servant for Alicia, or so I gather? Still...now then." After that she stands up, "Let's get your measurements, Colonel? While your current gear is acceptable a few times, one shouldn't go aroun
[22:28] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Let's get your measurements, Colonel? While your current gear is acceptable a few times, one shouldn't go around wearing it forever when meeting the upper class."
01[22:31] <Seira> "To be honest, I'm not really sure. The best way to look at it would be devoted friend," Seira muses. "It's not just the citizens who are inspired by Alicia's presence and valor." At the offer, she smiles anew. "It would be a good idea," she finds herself agreeing. "I had a really great dress but it got ruined in combat beyond salvage a few weeks ago. I just never got around to getting it replaced."
[22:32] <Alicia> roll 1d100 home very familiar
06[22:33] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d100 home very familiar and gets 97." [1d100=97]
[22:33] <Alicia> OOC: barely on target
[22:33] <Alicia> roll 1d100 house Cel let Marie, Anty, and Jessica stay at, studied carefully
06[22:33] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d100 house Cel let Marie, Anty, and Jessica stay at, studied carefully and gets 9." [1d100=9]
[22:34] <Alicia> OOC: just outside said house, that is
[22:36] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> The party appears without incident. Pallanth is chilly and wet today. It's not much different than Kelara was, though the smell of the wet forest is different from the smell of wet mud.
01[22:36] <Seira> "Let's meet with Celebrimbor and see if he can get us an audience with the Council?" Seira suggests.
[22:38] <Alicia> "That'd be the best way of going about this," Alicia agrees readily enough.
[22:38] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Meeting with Celebrimbor is simple enough. You meet with him inside, in front of a warming, drying fire. "A meeting with the council," he asks, "It can be done. For what reason should I tell His Majesty?"
01[22:39] <Seira> "That is deals with Esthan," Seira responds. "Much like what I said with my message. He as a threat was likely eliminated today, but he might have had contingencies. And since it happened on Pallanth soil, we had to report in person."
[22:42] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Thus, the party ist aken to the elven court! Celebrimbor sits with Ambrose Highsun, Kortan Chillander, Idril Silverleaf, Juai Desjardin and Saul. King Lorthan watches as the three are announced to enter.
[22:43] <Alicia> Since this is Seira's element Alicia is content to simply back her up on this, unless the council gets particularly hostile to her.
06[22:45] * Seira approaches, curtseying before the monarch. She nods at the nobles present afterwards, drawing confidence that their continued exposure to their human neighbors only served to help them get over deeply-ingrained prejudices. "Your Majesty, we have come here today to report on a battle that took place at the village of Treesport."
01[22:48] <Seira> "We were approached by a turncoat, one of Esthan's erstwhile allies who knew where the fiend would be. The information came on short notice, regrettably not enough to allow us to consult this court if we wanted to act upon it. We struck, and Esthan was incapacitated and taken to another plane for interrogation on his other plots involving Pallanth and the rest of the world."
06[22:50] * Seira takes a deep breath. "Regrettably, he was not alone, and his gelugon bodyguards attacked the nearby citizens before we were able to stop them. Two lives were lost in the process, despite the precautions we've tried to take."
[22:55] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Two irreplacable lives," Ambrose Highsun interjects here, "But the defeat of the fiend Esthan is joyous news to oure ears, is it not?"
[22:55] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "If the price wasn't too high?" Idril observes coolly.
[22:56] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "If Esthan wanted to," Saul sends a hooded look to Idril, "A pit fiend could have massacred an entire city without being stopped. Two lives are relatively acceptable. Relatively."
[22:56] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Of course, relatively," Idril snorts, voice raising into mockery.
01[22:56] <Seira> "In a way, this is why we wanted to address the council," Seira says. "Before he was taken down, Esthan mentioned contingencies. We have reason to believe he was bluffing, and our allies are sure to reveal his many plots, but it is no reason not to take the proper precautions."
[22:57] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Enough." King Lorthan raises his voice, "The fundamental point is sound. While lives cannot be replaced, the defeat of Esthan is pleasing. I see. We will take preparations, just in case."
[22:57] <Alicia> Ordinarily Alicia would be annoyed at Idril's sniping, clearly borne more out of political expediency than moral outrage, but she's too disappointed in herself for letting it happen to take him to task on it.
01[22:58] <Seira> "Than you, Your Majesty," Seira responds, bowing. "We will be at your disposal should the need arise, it goes without saying." And she'll appeal to Waukeen, which is what Idril should be doing with his own deity, if he were a proper servant of the gods.
[22:59] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "You are always welcome in this court." King Lorthan seconds. "Thank you, Crimson Guard."
01[23:02] <Seira> roll 1d1000
06[23:02] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d1000 and gets 131." [1d1000=131]
[23:15] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> -----
[23:17] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> The next morning, Alicia and Antenora startw ith a light spar. As they do, an interruption comes. Latha walks in. Her normal disguise is gone, appearing in all of her glory. "Alicia. The presence of the Crimson Guard is requested on Celestia."
[23:19] <Alicia> Since they were only just starting it's easy enough to stop, not even having worked up a sweat. "Demedais is in Mechanus, oddly enough," she admits, "But we can gather everyone else. Has there been any problems with Esthan?"
[23:20] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "That is what we must discuss," Her expression is cool. "Come with me. We must gather Seira and then go."
[23:21] <Alicia> "Alright, just a second," Alicia puts her quarterstaff aside and tells Marie where she and Antenora are going. "We should find Seira at her inn. Lets go there, first?"
[23:22] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Latha leads the way. The morning streets part for her as she travels, the party marveled at. On arriving at Seira's inn, they find Seira downstairs, as well as Donald. The latter is sitting at a table, eating breakfast. "Seira." Latha says, "The Crimson Guard is requested in Celestial. We must go."
[23:25] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> *Celestia. Man I suck.
01[23:25] <Seira> "Well, if we must," Seira deadpans. "Donald, much as I regret it, I must visit heaven. Hold down the fort while I'm gone?"
06[23:26] * Seira sends a thought to Amaryl about doing so, and thus being out of contact for the near future.
[23:26] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Donald raises a hand up at that. "Sure thing. Enjoy paradise, try not to ruin your appetite for lunch." He goes back to his breakfast, eating three whole mouthfuls before double-taking at Latha. "Wait, your'e going to Celestia? Oh yeah, Esthan. Let me know what he said?"
[23:26] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> 'Have funa nd be careful,' Amaryl sends back.
06[23:27] * Seira is all ready, nodding absent-mindedly at Donald.
03[23:28] * Taishyr (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-171-67.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) has joined #dunes
03[23:28] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Taishyr
[23:28] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Latha takes hands, calling on the magic to take them to Celestia! The world is gone around them, parted away. You stand in a wine dark sea up to your knees. Before you is a pristine beach, with an impossibly vast mountain rising into glorious heavens above. Alicia feels her spirit soar here, a conduit opened once more. Latha is moving as soon as she appears, taking to the air. "Follow me."
[23:28] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> taking to the air. "Follow me."
[23:28] <Alicia> Good thing they can all fly. Alicia flaps her own wings, taking off after Latha. "Where are we going?"
[23:29] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Antenora removes her ribbon before following. She's smiling as she asks, "Are we ascending past the first level of Celestia?"
06[23:29] * Seira decides to go with the flow and drop her own disguise, flanking Antenora.
[23:30] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "We're traveling to see one of my superiors," Lath aanswers, "We won't leave this level."
06[23:30] * Alicia wonders why so cryptic, but gives Latha the benefit of the doubt that she just doesn't want to repeat what her superior will be saying anyway, so doesn't press.
01[23:31] <Seira> "Want to just teleport there?" Seira offers. "I've got a ring for that."
[23:32] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "We can't." Latha looks back only briefly, "The wards in Whiteheart prevent it."
[23:32] <Alicia> "The scenery's nice, anyway," Alicia smiles, looking down at the beach as they fly.
01[23:33] <Seira> "Even if you were alone?" Seira asks curiously. "I've been thinking about having wards that allow selective teleportation."
[23:33] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> You fly for an hour, eventually coming to a small fortress isolated on a rugged cliff over the endless beaches. Past a flying flock of Lantern Archons, who laugh and call well wishes as you pass. Below, sea elves frolic in the tide, while a band of men in gold armor work on constructing what looks to be a high steepled church.
[23:34] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Latha flies towards the white stone fortress without hesitation. "Follow me."
01[23:34] <Seira> "All this tension," Seira mutters, following the instructions. "Is it really that bad?"
06[23:34] * Alicia readily does so, her curiousity increasingly gnawing at her.
[23:35] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Latha just flies along. "You'll understand soon, Seira. Hold your curiosity at bay until that time."
01[23:36] <Seira> "It's anxiety," Seira mutters quietly. "There better be a good reason for making me worry for over an hour.
01[23:36] <Seira> "
[23:39] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> You are lead into the fortress, gates of gold sliding aside as you enter. The fortress inside is one great hall after great hall, decorated with battle trophies. Yet each room is utterly empty of angelic or mortal life. Each room is silent as can be, your own heartbreast audible to the tune of your breathing. Eventually, you come to a hall where one being stands. It cannot be looked at directly at first, but you find you are able t
[23:39] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> It cannot be looked at directly at first, but you find you are able to withstand it. It's beauty is piercing, perfect in every way. A man, perhaps 7 feet tall. He is wrapped in gold armor that blazes like golden fires. In his eyes you can see the creation of life itself, unkonwn things that make themselves known to you. Latha approaches to within seven feet of him and kneels. "I have brought them, Exalted."
06[23:41] * Alicia can't help but be a little bit intimidated, having to avert her eyes slightly as she follows behind Latha, bowing respectfully to her friend's superior.
[23:41] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> It's wings seem to life with life itself, it's voice everything that is just and right. "Stand, Latha. Dragon and angels, I am Romiel. I bid you thanks for coming to my summons."
06[23:41] * Seira proceeds with her customary wave. "It's alright. What can we do for you?"
[23:42] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> Antenora hangs back behind Alicia, bowing deeply to Romiel. "Thank you, Exalted celestial."
[23:42] <Alicia> roll 1d20+22 planes, who or what is he?
06[23:42] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+22 planes, who or what is he? and gets 27." [1d20=5]
01[23:43] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 I like planes too?
06[23:43] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 I like planes too? and gets 15." [1d20=3]
[23:43] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> roll 1d20+17 why not?
06[23:43] * Hatbot --> "Ko-TerrorofMrNTori rolls 1d20+17 why not? and gets 19." [1d20=2]
[23:44] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "What Esthan has revealed - and what has been revealed by omission - are terrible things. These things are so frightful and vile that to speak of them outside of a consecrated, protected area draws a curse on you that will consume your soul."
06[23:45] * Seira blinks. "Really?"
01[23:45] <Seira> roll 1d20 whatever knowledge I have to call bullshit on this
06[23:45] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20 whatever knowledge I have to call bullshit on this and gets 3." [1d20=3]
[23:45] <Alicia> "Well... that certainly explains the secrecy," Alicia shudders at the thought. Fortunately Mystra will continually protect her in that regard...
01[23:47] <Seira> "No, it really doesn't," Seira admits. "I can't think of anything at all that would cause this. It's not that I don't trust you, Romiel, but I need to understand things like this."
[23:48] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "I bid you to listen well to my words and open your minds." Romiel's voice soothes at the same time it speaks, "For I will tell you a story of a time long ago, past where mortal numbers can fathom to tell."
06[23:49] * Seira is good for stories! She can always take it on faith and judge for herself afterwards.
06[23:50] * Alicia implicitly trusts the avatar of justice and righteousness before her, and so prepares to listen with an open mind.
[23:52] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Hell is eternal, is it not? Yet, not long ago in cosmic time, Bel became Lord of the First. There have been other Lords of the Nine, names such as Sammael, Zariel and Geryon may yet be remembered by mortal minds." (More)
[23:55] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Farther than that...far farther, there was once a time where beings known as Hellspawn fought for control of Baator. Some of these beings are known to this day: Mephisopheles was one, as was Dispater and Mammon. A few more are Dukes and Archdukes of Hell. But most were slain in a great purge by the ruler of Hell at the time. Yet whispers have existed for all time that a few of these beings may yet exist." (More)
[23:55] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> that a few of these beings may yet exist." (More)
[23:59] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "The one fact known yet of them is that their names and existance cannot be said, lest an endless calamity fall on any who dare speak it within nine days. These remaining Hellspawn are known as Baatorians, the lost children of Baator."
Session Time: Sat Jul 11 00:00:00 2009
[00:00] <Alicia> At the pause in exposition, Alicia asks the natural question. "So how does this tie in with Esthan?"
01[00:01] <Seira> "And wouldn't it mean I can't say Dispater's name?"
[00:03] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "We bid Esthan to speak with all our power. The Name he said forth was so terrible that nine angels were consumed with hellfire on it's very utterance. The curse that fell on them was so great that I believe that Esthan's master may be one of these legendary creatures."
[00:04] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Obviously it doesn't apply to Lords of the Nine," Antenora murmurs under her breath, "Still, what creature is so terrible as to do that?"
01[00:04] <Seira> "So they're worse than Mammon or Asmodeus?" Seira asks to clarify matters.
[00:05] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Of their power, none know. They are fleeting legends wrapped in enigma and endless times passed, unknown but only to the longest lasted and ancient minds in the cosmos. They are of the same stock that produced the Lords of the Nine, so it is safe to say the possess power terrifying."
[00:05] <Alicia> "Such power... I never dreamed it possible..." Alicia looks horrified. "I know such beings can do much in their own desmenses, but for it to have such a terrible effect even here on Mount Celestia? How could it even be opposed?"
[00:06] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "They are beings from when Time itself was new and Creation was fresh. They possess such dread power, wrapped in a mystery to keep them sealed for all time. To what purpose they serve and what desires they have, none know but themselves."
01[00:08] <Seira> "Hell is worse than we knew. It's actually a shock," Seira admits. "So do you know who his master is, and what he wants?"
[00:10] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "I bid of you - mention not this name outside of these halls, lest your soul be dragged screaming into darkness eternal. The name said is Verrier."
[00:10] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> He speaks it's name in Infernal, the word momentarily dimming the light of Celestia that resides around you.
01[00:11] <Seira> "Do we know more than a name? And does he have a moniker, something others call him so that they don't burst into hellfire on the spot?"
[00:11] <Alicia> Honestly, Alicia could have lived without knowing that name. She has a hard time seeing how it can be useful to her, given what they've just learned. Although Seira's point about an alias is a good one.
[00:15] <Ko-TerrorofMrNTori> "Of that, all I know is Hellspawn...or Hell's Pawn, as Esthan said." Going on now, "What this points to is that an ancient Baatorian has begun to meddle in the affairs of mortal-kind." (More)
03[00:17] * Ko-TerrorofMrNTori is now known as Kotono
[00:18] <Kotono> "Esthan said several things related to this, of which are of interest to you. He claims he was once a mortal, until the Hellspawn transformed him. Yet he also speaks of Asmodeus' plans for the Hellspawn - only of it being another step in an eternal struggle."
[00:20] <Alicia> "We presumed there was a more convoluted plot in place than the story he fed us about his master seeking to usurp Asmodeus," Alicia confirms.
01[00:20] <Seira> "I must say I'm somewhat frustrated," Seira admits out loud. "All we've learned so far is that even if we had, by chance, eliminated all of the devils and their nobility, there are still far more horrible things out there. We know of no concrete plans to stop, or of any sleeper agents Esthan or his boss might've had on Prime or elsewhere, or how to use any new information to our side's advantage."
[00:21] <Alicia> "It is very disheartening," Alicia is compelled to agree.
01[00:22] <Seira> "If you brought us here to scare us, I'm afraid we're going to disappoint you. But if there's anything we can actually do and be useful at...."
[00:24] <Kotono> "There is. Esthan spoke of other things of use. He spoke of Agares in Avernus, how he was manipulating him and trying to offer his services to see the Crimson Guard brought low in time, to ultimately aid him in returning to his Dukedom...and how that was nothing more as a simple gambit from the Hellspawn to put worm Esthan into the confidence of Agares, so that he may one day be brought to serve the Hellspawn."
[00:24] <Kotono> so that he may one day be brought to serve the Hellspawn." (More)
[00:28] <Kotono> "Agares resides in the Citadel of Broken Souls, hidden below the battle blasted landscape of Avernus. He has lured devils loyal to him to defect to his side, trying to re-establish his base of power."
01[00:29] <Seira> "So he's been deposed and is now hiding in a hole in the ground," Seira summarizes.
[00:30] <Kotono> Antenora chuckles at that. "That's a lovely way of putting it, Seira."
01[00:30] <Seira> "I have my moments."
[00:30] <Alicia> "Agares will likely be dealt with in time, but of more pressing concern to us would be Esthan's activities on the Prime. Have you learned much from him about that?" Alicia asks.
[00:32] <Kotono> "Yes. His primary goal was the Crimson Guard. The Hellspawn wished for you to be his agents. Esthan believes that the Hellspawn desires more potent weapons against his eternal enemies. To do so, your will must be broken though constant terror and intimidation mixed with allure and reward."
01[00:33] <Seira> "He was doing it all wrong, then," Seira notes. "Just to clarify, the eternal enemies would be... you guys, or Asmodeus?"
[00:34] <Kotono> "Asmodeus. Like all devils, it seems that the Hellspawn desires to rule and dominate."
01[00:35] <Seira> "Okay. My next question is, who do we want to win there?"
[00:36] <Kotono> "Does it matter if Mephisto ever overthrows Asmodeus? At heart, there will still be a terrible tyrant ruling Hell." Antenora's voice is strident now, "The name is of only partial importance, be it Hellspawn or Asmodeus."
[00:37] <Alicia> "Better they remain in a stalemate at each other's throats, just as demons and devils are," Alicia nods resignedly.
01[00:37] <Seira> "Well, it actually does matter, somewhat, if one wants to sear all life from our world and the other is content abusing fiends."
[00:37] <Kotono> "His other games - the mortals he toyed with - were all distractions and ways to attack the Crimson Guard," Romiel continues to speak now, "He used the agents of Armanzas, the devil in charge of your world after the failed invasion, to further his own ends and set up eventually taking full power over the devils there."
01[00:39] <Seira> "This might be a diversion, but you mentioned a devil in charge of our world?" Seira asks. "Let's pretend for a moment I know nothing about him. Can you humor me and fill us in?"
[00:44] <Kotono> "He spoke of Armanzas only in passing. He consideres Armanzas as little more than a token to be used nad discarded when he gets in his way."
06[00:45] * Seira hoped he would take the hint, but decides to give him one more nudge. "Maybe we would find information about this devil, gotten in such a way, more useful than you think, Romiel."
[00:48] <Kotono> "There is little to tell. Armanzas mattered little to Esthan's scheme beyond a token. Little was said."
01[00:49] <Seira> "Do you think you could find time to ask Esthan about him later, and pass word on?" Seira asks hopefully.
[00:50] <Alicia> "More pertinent to the immediate situation, did Esthan give any details on the repercussions he threatened us with for his defeat?" Alicia jumps in with her own question.
01[00:50] <Seira> "Yes, I'm curious about that as well. Well, anxious, more like. Was it a bluff or not?"
[00:52] <Kotono> "It will be done." Moving on from that, "Esthan spoke of no such contingencies. He was shocked he was ambushed and defeated so quickly. He could hardly believe it."
01[00:52] <Seira> "Isn't it sad?" Seira mutters. "So no sleeper agents, no contingencies in case he disappeared, no retaliations?"
[00:53] <Alicia> "It was almost surprising, really," Alicia admits. "He seemed invincible when I first fought him."

[Corwin]

[19:58] <Kotono> <Alicia> "Better they remain in a stalemate at each other's throats, just as demons and devils are," Alicia nods resignedly.
[19:58] <Kotono> <Seira> "Well, it actually does matter, somewhat, if one wants to sear all life from our world and the other is content abusing fiends."
[19:58] <Kotono> > "His other games - the mortals he toyed with - were all distractions and ways to attack the Crimson Guard," Romiel continues to speak now, "He used the agents of Armanzas, the devil in charge of your world after the failed invasion, to further his own ends and set up eventually taking full power over the devils there."
[19:58] <Kotono> <Seira> "This might be a diversion, but you mentioned a devil in charge of our world?" Seira asks. "Let's pretend for a moment I know nothing about him. Can you humor me and fill us in?"
[19:58] <Kotono> > "He spoke of Armanzas only in passing. He consideres Armanzas as little more than a token to be used nad discarded when he gets in his way."
[19:58] <Kotono> * Seira hoped he would take the hint, but decides to give him one more nudge. "Maybe we would find information about this devil, gotten in such a way, more useful than you think, Romiel."
[19:58] <Kotono> > "There is little to tell. Armanzas mattered little to Esthan's scheme beyond a token. Little was said."
[19:58] <Kotono> <Seira> "Do you think you could find time to ask Esthan about him later, and pass word on?" Seira asks hopefully.
[19:58] <Kotono> <Alicia> "More pertinent to the immediate situation, did Esthan give any details on the repercussions he threatened us with for his defeat?" Alicia jumps in with her own question.
[19:58] <Kotono> <Seira> "Yes, I'm curious about that as well. Well, anxious, more like. Was it a bluff or not?"
[19:58] <Kotono> > "It will be done." Moving on from that, "Esthan spoke of no such contingencies. He was shocked he was ambushed and defeated so quickly. He could hardly believe it."
[19:58] <Kotono> <Seira> "Isn't it sad?" Seira mutters. "So no sleeper agents, no contingencies in case he disappeared, no retaliations?"
[19:58] <Kotono> <Alicia> "It was almost surprising, really," Alicia admits. "He seemed invincible when I first fought him."
[19:58] <Kotono> "His confidence got the better of him?" Latha finally lightens ever so slightly, smiling.
[19:59] <Kotono> "Or he simply didn't get them set up in time?" Antenora's expression darkens, "Either way, it's a blessing."
01[20:00] <Seira> "As an aside, when I'm visiting the Desert Fiefdoms back home," Seira voices, "I can tell its rulers that the devil infiltration problem they used to have has been eradicated in its entirety?"
[20:03] <Kotono> "To our knoweldge, yes," Romiel replies.
06[20:04] * Seira nods. "Works for me."
[20:04] <Kotono> "What of other matters?" Antenora goe son, "Was there any other helpful information?"
[20:07] <Kotono> "We know the location of where Agares hides now. Esthan spoke of the Hellspawn's defenses being morphic and teleporting, but Agares is static. The time draws nigh when this weakened fiend can be dispatched from the universe."
[20:08] <Alicia> "His importance is diminished, but since he bears a grudge it wouldn't do to leave him alone to plot," Alicia reflects.
[20:10] <Kotono> "When the time comes, we ask you to work with us in eliminating his threat. We will dispatch a force to Avernus to break through his defenses. You would do well as part of the spearhead," With a nod to Alicia then, "And as the source of his current malice, you will be a suitable weapon to draw him to his judgment, as well be all the Crimson Guard."
[20:10] <Alicia> "Bait, am I?" Alicia almost smirks. "Well, whatever works."
[20:11] <Kotono> "I'll be there. To have a chance to slay a former Duke of Hell is an honor." Antenora smiles like a predator cat, all teeth. "How many souls will finally see justice with his demise?"
[20:16] <Kotono> "Will you join them as well, Seira?" Romiel asks. "Your aid would benefit the battle when the time comes."
01[20:17] <Seira> "Oh wait. That wasn't a rhetorical question. You're actually wondering what my answer would be." Seira rolls her eyes. "Let's all take a wild guess."
[20:18] <Kotono> "Seira!" Latha gasps, "That is terribly disrespectful!"
01[20:19] <Seira> "Why is that?" Seira returns. "Romiel is the one who insulted me first by even asking the question."
[20:20] <Alicia> "Lets all calm down here," Alicia interjects, hoping to keep this from going further downhill. "We're all on the same side, after all. You can't blame him for asking when he doesn't really know us, Seira."
01[20:20] <Seira> "I suppose," Seira allows. "So I'm not a paladin, that doesn't mean one should question me doing the right thing."
[20:23] <Alicia> "He's not casting aspersions, Seira. We're not joined at the hip and we don't always fight in the same battles, so it's not an unfair question," Alicia soothes. "Isn't it better to ask than to presume for you?"
[20:23] <Kotono> Romiel smiles. "Your heart is true, at the least. Your social graces are not, perhaps. Dragon, I will not take offense to your words, but I warn you: Many others will, and others with the power to make you rue those words. You possess great power. With it must come great wisdom."
01[20:26] <Seira> "Alright," she responds. "So that's settled. And we would hopefully take care of Esthan's replacement on our world before long. Are there any other fiendish plots we can derail along the way?" She'd asked before, but she might as well do so again and change the topic.
[20:29] <Kotono> "That is the information he gave us. He indicated that Armanzas' works werein tattered between his work and the Crimson Guard."
01[20:30] <Seira> "We might learn more once we get him as well." Seira nods. "Out of curiousity, what's going to happen to Esthan?"
[20:31] <Kotono> "He will be imprisoned deep in Celestia. Let him never see the light of day again and instead reflect on his crimes for eternity." Romiel's voice raises now, "His soul is midnight black with malice and cruelty. Let it be explunged into the light."
06[20:31] * Alicia has no complaints with that outcome.
[20:33] <Kotono> "He can do no more harm." Antenora starts to really smile then, "Another nightmare down."
01[20:34] <Seira> "Likewise. I'm sure he's not the first to be incarcerated for his crimes."
[20:35] <Kotono> In motes of light appear a belt, several scrolls and a book. "There are yours by right of combat, and I fear you will need the might these will lend you in your coming trials and tribulations. Hell's wrath is terrible and eternal."
[20:38] <Alicia> "Not just ours, but we'll split it up as we can," Alicia nods. "That includes you, Latha," she smiles at the deva. "What are they all?"
[20:38] <Kotono> "A belt that increases all of your attributes, his spellbook - less the vile spells, which were destroyed - and several arcane and divine scrolls."
01[20:39] <Seira> "Speaking of that combat...." Seira pauses, considering the best way to phrase her request. "I've made an appeal to Waukeen, to see if she could return those taken before their time by Esthan's bodyguards. But with how busy deities are, even if you have reason to believe they like you... isn't there anything you can do? I would give a lot to see them restored to life."
[20:42] <Kotono> "I understand." Romiel's smile becomes gentle now, "It is not my choice to make, but I will ask my superiors to consider it. If it is to be, it shall be. If the departed souls wish to stay to whence they were taken, it is their choice." He pauses here, "This is a difficult thing for mortals to accept while the fires of life burn in them. Many are not granted this request because they accept death and what comes beyond."
[20:42] <Kotono>  request because they accept death and what comes beyond."
01[20:43] <Seira> "I understand--" Now, Seira adds to herself, "--that it is the soul's choice, yes. I only petition for the right for them to get such a choice."
[20:46] <Kotono> "I understand." A nod of his own, "You have drawn great ire from Hell. Do you feel that you can manage the assault on your own?"
06[20:47] * Seira trusts Alicia to know more about this.
[20:50] <Alicia> "Without knowing of Agares' resources and defences I couldn't say for sure," Alicia replies. "What do we know would oppose us?"
[20:52] <Kotono> "Rebel gelugons and other greater fiends." After a moment, "Latha. The world below is in need of help. Go with them and help the Crimson Guard as your next assignment. Crimson Guard, will you have her?"
01[20:53] <Seira> "That, too, was never in doubt," Seira says instantly. "If you'll accept this assingment, Latha, we would love to have you!"
06[20:53] * Alicia smiles at the deva as well. "Your company is always welcome."
[20:54] <Kotono> "Welcome." Antenora's face lights up with joy.
[20:54] <Kotono> "I understand, Exalted." Then to the party, "I accept. Let's return to the Prime Material Plane now?"
[20:55] <Alicia> "That's fine," Alicia agrees. "There are other matters we need to attend to down there, anyway. Thank you for helping us with Esthan, Romiel."
[20:56] <Kotono> "Be safe. When the time comes for Agares, we will be in contact. I twill not be for months yet, by your reckoning." Romiel says.
[20:56] <Alicia> "We'll be ready when the time comes," Alicia affirms.
06[20:56] * Seira nods, for her part.