038.3 Muirfinn and Mr. Smiles

[Corwin]

[19:57] <Kotono> Getting 66 wolves together is a bit of a hassle. But yo ugather them under the noonday sun of Ysgard, each and every one of them staring at Muirfinn, waiting. 122 eyes, each one waiting, watching.
[20:13] <Muirfinn> Casting Speak With Animals, Muirfinn looks out over the assembled animals and nods. "I have gathered you all here to tell you that, while you are indeed strong, our enemies are steadily growing stronger. Some are stronger than even our mightiest warriors. You have tested me and know that I am strong. I want you to be strong too. Today, and in the coming days ahead, I will be using the magic
[20:13] <Muirfinn> of the natural world to enhance you. You will be stronger, smarter, and better fighters. You will be able to speak with and understand humans and the others here on the Aurora." Muirfinn meets the eyes of each of the wolves in turn. "If any of you do not wish to receive this gift, speak up now and I will understand. There will be no punishment. I am offering this to you as a gift. Strength,
[20:13] <Muirfinn> intelligence, and speech. The choice is ultimately your own."
[20:16] <Kotono> Only one wolf steps forward. This one is grizzled and grey, "You have proven your superiority and strength. You speak, we listen, and we will obey."
[20:17] * Muirfinn nods. "This will take several days, and I can only do seven at a time. Please be patient." OOC: Massive spellcasting go go go
[20:20] <Kotono> OOC: Okay, post expsense to loot and update Aurora fun, if it hasn't been already. More in as ec.
[20:21] <Muirfinn> OOC: K
[20:25] <Kotono> Days of effort pass, calling on the rituals to awaken the wolves! Each one looks out with a new light in their eyes! The pack gathers together the day it is done, each one looking at you - more intently, different, more thoughtful.
[20:28] <Muirfinn> "Hello again. My thanks to each of you for allowing me to enhance you, and I hope you settle in well with your new freedom of thought. If you have any questions for me, please don't hesitate to approach and ask."
[20:33] <Kotono> The grizzled white wolf steps forward, "My thoughts have become clear.  The language of you two legged creatures is becoming clear fast for me and a few others." he announces, "The most gifted of us are beginning to think thoughts we could not imagine days ago."
[20:34] * Muirfinn nods. "That's good to hear. In time, you will grow wiser, and even stronger. This opened the path for all of you to become truly great. I am looking forward to seeing just what path each of you chooses."
[20:39] <Kotono> "I worry that it will not be without struggle," The grizzled wolf replies, "There have already been more fights for position and dominance than before. Before, we all understood. Now, what I understand is much more than what many of my pack can. Yet the thoughts I am having are marvelous things."
[20:42] <Muirfinn> "Upheaval is normal in this. I understand. Fighs for dominance will be common for the next week or so until every one of you can accept what has happened, and the changes that they are experiencing. I will not allow any of you to die, and will break up fights that grow too violent."
[20:44] <Kotono> "Death in the pack serves none," The grizzled wolf agrees, "It shall be as you say, for your strength is mighty."
[20:46] <Muirfinn> "None but our enemies, who seek to slay or enslave us all." Muirfinn nods. "Come. Let's see those who would fight with their newfound strength amongs one another."
[20:48] <Kotono> OOC: Going to be guiding/instructing the wolves?
[20:49] <Muirfinn> OOC: Until they can keep together, yeah. They'll listen to me.
[20:54] <Kotono> OOC: Make a wild empathy check here, +3?
[20:55] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+18+6+3
[20:55] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+18+6+3 and gets 29." [1d20=2]
[21:02] <Kotono> Two days pass. While Muirfinn is able to keep the wolves in check, it's a close run thing. They're constantly fighting over position and ideas, and actually teaching them much is almost impossible when it is like this.
[21:03] * Muirfinn accepts that, and is of course running interference until everything calms down to the point where they can actually be taught something. He often looks to the white wolf, who seems to be wiser than most.
[21:04] <Muirfinn> Meanwhile, he uses his companion, the scaly toothy dinosaur to intervene in places wen he is otherwise occupied with other wolves.
[21:12] <Kotono> OOC: Make another wild empathy check.
[21:12] <Muirfinn> OOC: Same as before?
[21:15] <Kotono> OOC: No mod this time. Just a normal one.
[21:15] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+18+6
[21:15] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+18+6 and gets 40." [1d20=16]
[21:16] <Kotono> This time it starts to take, the pack settling down as Muirfinn works with them, teaching and instilling. OOC: This'll take some time, and you mentioned in PM what you wanted to teach them. Anything else I need to be aware of?
[21:18] <Muirfinn> OOC: Nah. I think we've covered everything.
[22:17] <Kotono> ---

[Corwin]

[22:19] <Kotono> Muirfinn is asleep. Rather deeply asleep, dreaming of turtle shells and druid magic. Unfortunately, like all good things, it comes to an end. Elena is besides him, "Muirfinn, wake up!"
[22:21] <Muirfinn> "Buh?" Muirfinn sits up. "Ah...yes?"
[22:21] <Kotono> "There's a diplomatic guest, and Gisfal is the only commanding officer available right now," Bowing, "He requested me to get a few officers to join him."
[22:22] * Muirfinn grabs his robe, shrugging it on. He straps his belt and other gear on and nods. "Very well. Where are they?"
[22:24] <Kotono> "Courtyard. It's the middle of the night so no one's out there except some lycanthropes," Elena explains.
[22:25] <Muirfinn> "Alright then." Muirfinn sets off!

[Corwin]

[03:35] <Kotono> Heading to the courtyard, you find Gisfal there, along with Balyss. Near the gates are several dozen creatures. Each one seems to be made of air, and yet with occasional solid parts to them, rough and scaly. Each one swirls like a self-contained whirlwind - air elementals, yet something's a bit off about them. One wears a cape and stands at the head of them. Gisfal nods as you approach,
[03:35] <Kotono> "Follow my lead," he instructs, "Introduce yourself after Balyss introduces herself."
[03:35] * Muirfinn nods.
[03:37] <Kotono> Balyss is at attention, standing forward. Meanwhile, "I am General Gisfal of Aurora," Gisfal introduces himself, then Balyss speaks, "Balyss of Selune."
[03:37] <Muirfinn> "Muirfinn of the Mother Ocean."
[03:49] <Kotono> "I am Shinearson," The elemental bows a moment, "We are all Shinearson. Our protector has gifted us with part of his essence, and has set us to this Crusade. We have been told of Afina, Jaela, Willim, Ithea and Adrian. Are any of them here?"
[03:55] <Muirfinn> "Ah...isn't Willim...?" Muirfinn looks at Gisfal.
[03:55] <Kotono> "They are here, but not available right now," Gisfal answers, "We welcome you to this Crusade, then," Glancing momentarily back, "Are either of you familiar with this?"
[03:55] <Kotono> "Yes," he replies a moment later.
[03:55] * Muirfinn shakes his head. "I know nothing of this."
[03:56] <Kotono> "Before my time," Balyss adds, Gisfal nodding. Turning back, "Once one of the officers you're familiar with comes, you'll be settled in. Muirfinn," A nod to him, "See to settling them in."
[04:00] * Muirfinn nods, leading the elementals inside.
[04:13] <Kotono> Thus you walk with the elementals. They fall in line with you, "Are there fast creatures here?"
[04:13] <Kotono> Gisfal nods and heads off, Balyss lingering a moment before departing as well.
[04:20] <Muirfinn> "Of course there are. Baleruk is easily the fastest of us, at least in a straight line. There are many who can come close, and some who cannot. Why do you ask?"
[04:23] <Kotono> Several elementals promptly fly rings around Muirfinn in a second. "We are speed. Shinear is speed, and we have been given some of his essence."
[04:26] * Muirfinn nods calmly, walking on as they circle him. "I've not heard of Shinear. Who is he? She? It?"
[04:27] <Kotono> "He is the fastest dragon in Creation!" The caped one asserts, slowing down to walk with Muirfinn's own pace.
[04:27] <Muirfinn> "Ah, a dragon! What color?" Muirfinn smiles.
[04:36] <Kotono> "Air. He is an air dragon. He flies at over 6000 feet a second," The Shinearson says.
[04:37] <Muirfinn> "That's..." Muirfinn briefly does math in his head before losing track. "...really ridiculous."
[04:44] <Kotono> "Fast," The Shinearson says. "Really fast."
[04:45] <Muirfinn> "Yeah." Muirfinn says, still trying to put it together in his head. "So he sent you to help us out?"
[04:52] <Kotono> "Yes," He answers, "Is there anything we need to know here?"
[04:57] <Muirfinn> "Well, you're welcome to go anywhere you like, so long as you don't invade someone's private living quarters. There are the barracks, and such. You may be interested to know that there are some of Lady Chan's forces here as well, as well as elementals from The Cauldron. Do you have any preferences for living quarters?"
[04:59] <Kotono> "They'll do," They answer immediately, "Anywhere with lots of open air and space."
[05:00] * Muirfinn nods, leading them over toward the areas claimed by other air elementals.

[Corwin]

[19:39] <Kotono> ---
[19:41] <Kotono> "Muirfinn." Lunch in the cafeteria is interrupted by Tannin, who takes a seat opposite him and leans forward. His face his hidden by his folded, upraised hands, just behind them. "I could use your help with something."
[19:42] * Muirfinn looks up. "Of course. What can I help you with, Tannin?"
[19:45] <Kotono> "Haven't had any tasks lately," he begins, "So I need to swing by a Prime and deal with something. I could use someone with magic to help out."
[19:52] <Muirfinn> "I can help you, yes. I haven't anything further to do today. Can you tell me what to expect?"
[19:54] <Kotono> "Got word of trouble at home," Tannin shakes his head, "An old friend there's gotten in trouble, could use some assistance."
[19:55] * Muirfinn nods. "When would you like to leave?"
[20:00] <Kotono> "Half of an hour. If you need to prepare or need company, go take care of it. I'll be here," Tannin says, eyes flashing yellow and blue as he looks up. "At the worst we have go in heavy, but we should be alright."
[20:01] <Muirfinn> Chuckling, Muirfinn says, "I can do heavy, if needs be. I just need space. Nothing gets someone's attention like a house-sized elemental."
[20:02] <Kotono> "Good," Tannin cracks a smile, then cracks his knuckles, "We'll need to travel some, so I'll fill in the details on the trip there."
[20:03] * Muirfinn nods and goes to collect his things.
[20:04] <Kotono> OOC: Any prep of note?
[20:05] <Muirfinn> OOC: Grabbing gear, animal companion, and some rations for travel.
[20:13] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[20:13] <Kotono> You meet Tannin at the cafeteria a half hour later. He gives your companion a look over, "Friend of yours?"
[20:15] <Muirfinn> "Chok is my companion." Muirfinn pats the thing on the head, prompting a friendly snarl. "He won't hurt you. As long as we keep him fed, anyway."
[20:19] <Kotono> "Right. As long as he's trained not to attack at random," Tannin says, "Come on, it's several hours to the door."
[20:23] <Muirfinn> "He won't." Muirfinn says. "Let's go."
[20:24] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[20:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 87." [1d100=87]
[20:24] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[20:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 30." [1d100=30]
[20:26] <Kotono> Hours of trekking through Ysgard follow. It's not so bad, everything vibrant and crisp, energy coming into your body with every step. As you struggle up a rocky path ascending near the crest of a jagged cliff, "Past this cliff are some ruins. The door I'm looking for is there. Have you ever heard of the Infinite Staircase?"
[20:28] <Muirfinn> Muirfinn lands on a rock, having transformed into a seagull to make this tip not take forever. As he shifts back, he says, "I've seen it mentioned briefly in obscure tomes, but never in any detail or how to find it."
[20:31] <Kotono> "There's a trick to it. Once you know the trick, you can find the doors," Tannin explains, "There's some ruins past this cliff. One of the doors leads to it. From it you can go anywhere, if you're willing to look long enough. "
[20:34] <Muirfinn> "It is safe though, yes? I have read that it is patrolled by guardians, though sources disagree on what they are exactly." Muirfinn says, shifting and winging to a higher rock as Tannin rises. He briefly eyes his companion, who seems to be having little to no trouble traversing the cliff. It merely jumps straight up and pulls itself onto a ledge.
[20:43] <Kotono> Up Tannin goes, coming to the top. Ahead are several half ruined buildings, made of the same stone as the mountain. They're windswept and empty on a glance. "More or less. On the steps you can run into anything. I met someone there who claims to have met Anthraxus - one of THE 'loths - there. It's probably bullshit," Starting to walk towards the ruins now, "Eyes open by the way, there's
[20:43] <Kotono> a few thing sthat nest here sometimes. But anyway, bullshit or not, I'd believe it. Creatures of all sorts use it. Do you know what Lillends are? They patrol around, and they figured out how to safely fly about the Infinite Stair. "
[20:46] * Muirfinn nods. "Snake-women. I've heard of them. Came across one when I was searching for survivors of my people on a lead. Similar to us in that they are partly reptilian, but not the same. Nice, though."
[20:48] <Kotono> "They like to fly topless. Damn right they're nice," Grinning a moment as he picks his way forward, "Just don't make a come on to them. Unless you really charm them, they'll take offense. It's really no fun traveling the stair with a lillend upset at you." OOC: Spot check?
[20:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 Tannin
[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 Tannin and gets 37." [1d20=16]
[20:49] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+24 true seeing
[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+24 true seeing and gets 25." [1d20=1]
[20:51] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+2 beastie
[20:51] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+2 beastie and gets 7." [1d20=5]
[20:52] <Kotono> OOC: Any extrodinary senses?
[20:53] <Muirfinn> OOC: He's got Scent
[20:53] <Muirfinn> OOC: And low-light
[20:54] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[20:56] <Kotono> Tannin advances ahead, coming to the third crumbled building. The front door is intact, though some of the wall isn't. You can see the interior is full of rubble and empty. Tannin goes past it, "To the side," he says, "Pay attention to the wall as best you can as we go back." Meanwhile Muirfinn's companion can smell something reptilian. Something burning.
[20:59] <Muirfinn> Chok makes a growly-snuffling noise, letting out a small yap at Muirfinn. He looks over from staring at the walls. "What is it?"
[21:00] <Muirfinn> The beast starts to pick at the ground with its forearms before trotting around, sniffing at the air. OOC: He has Track, too!
[21:13] <Kotono> The scent is coming from 40ft away and 30ft to the right. Another building is there, the front intact and door open.
[21:14] <Muirfinn> The scaly dinosaur lunges toward the building a few steps before stopping, looking back at Muirfinn.
[21:14] <Muirfinn> "Tannin, I think my friend here has found something. LEt's have a look before we go." Muirfinn starts toward the building.
[21:19] <Kotono> Tannin nods, as you hear a voice call out, "Looking for a fight, are we?" It's a man's voice, coming out from the ruined building somewhere.
[21:25] * Muirfinn frowns. "What's the meaning of this?"
[21:26] <Kotono> "Just a traveler resting his wings here." he calls back, "I'm just surprised you noticed me."
[21:30] <Muirfinn> "Hnn. My companion here noticed you, though I'm not sure how." Muirfinn says, heading forward.
[21:33] <Kotono> You hear a rustling inside, a figure coming forth. A man, a golden hint to his features. He's tall and strong, but without being too muscled. He wears a simple green tunic and black hose, as well as a matching cape. A feathered green cap sits atop his head. "Your companion's sharp. I was trying to get some rest without being disturbed."
[21:39] * Muirfinn nods. "It pays to be cautious at the best of times. I still wanted to see that everything was alright." Meanwhile, the overgrown lizard darts forward, seeking the small of cooked food!
[21:40] <Kotono> It comes from the man - the smell of fire and reptiles is strong from him. He smiles at that, "Well, nothing's wrong here. If you don't mind, I'd like to go back to resting. I was dozing off when your poking around awoke me."
[21:44] <Kotono> Tannin hangs back, keeping out but keeping an eye open.
[21:47] <Muirfinn> The dinosaur snuffles the man's leg for a moment before looking up at him. "Come on no, Chok. Come." The dino looks longingly at the man's leg for a moment before trotting back to Muirfinn's side. "We'll leave you in peace, then. If you're looking for good shelter, you might want to try the Aurora." Muirfinn points his hand back the way they came. "They're pretty welcoming, provided
[21:47] <Muirfinn> you're not devil-loving scum." Muirfinn says cheefully.
[21:48] <Kotono> "Understood. I might swing by," he calls, tipping his head to Muirfinn. "Safe travels."
[21:57] * Muirfinn nods at the man. "You as well." He heads back to Tannin.
[22:00] <Kotono> "No harm done." Tannin heads to the alley you were oging to in the first place, "Better than the local fauna."
[22:01] <Muirfinn> "Indeed."
[22:07] <Kotono> Thus you are lead to the side of the building in the first place! OOC: Make spot.
[22:09] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+24 true seeing Muirfinn
[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+24 true seeing Muirfinn and gets 40." [1d20=16]
[22:09] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+2 scent, low light vision DINOSAUR
[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+2 scent, low light vision DINOSAUR and gets 14." [1d20=12]
[22:12] <Kotono> Your eyes sweep ahead. It's hard to see - your eyes roll off it once, only a careful look and a bit of will gets you to notice it. There's a plain, nondescript door on the side of the building. Utterly uninteresting, just a door into the building. Probably nothing at all, rubble choked and worthless. Tannin goes to it, "Focus on it, right here," he says, tapping the door.
[22:13] <Muirfinn> "I see it." Muirfinn says. "It feels like...it's trying to get me to ignore it, though."
[22:13] <Muirfinn> "Fascinating."
[22:14] <Kotono> "It has that effect," Tannin says, "There are doors like this all over Creation. Most creatures, even outsiders, never notice them."
[22:14] * Muirfinn nods. "Let's get in there then."
[22:17] <Kotono> Thus the door is opened! Within you can see a landing - it has bits of strewn rubble and rock around it. "Come on through," Tannin steps, stepping through.
[22:18] * Muirfinn enters, half-leading and half-dragging a skittish reptile companion.
[22:19] <Kotono> Within you step! You appear on a simple balcony in the darkness. Endless darkness, save for stairways. Stairs that connect to this balcony and to others farther away. Stairways going in every direction at once, twisting, turning, looping, ascending, descending! The air is faintly cold, as Tanning steps forward, "This way."
[22:20] * Muirfinn looks around, azure eyeballs peering all around and taking everything in. "Interesting. How do you navigate here?" he asks as he falls in step behind Tannin.
[22:23] <Kotono> "Memorization," He answers, "Asking for directions helps too. We'll be passing a couple of settlements on the way. They're something to see."
[22:27] * Muirfinn just nods.
[22:31] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[22:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 53." [1d100=53]
[22:31] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[22:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 91." [1d100=91]
[22:31] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[22:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 94." [1d100=94]
[22:37] <Kotono> You walk for a good hour up a set of stairs, the times passing. As you do Tannin glances back, having taken the lead, "Let me know if you need a break," he calls back, "We're nearly to a landing, though."
[22:37] <Kotono> OOC: What spells do you have active on you, Muirfinn?
[22:37] * Muirfinn smirks. "I may be slow, but my people are hardy. I will keep on until you decide to stop."
[22:47] <Muirfinn> OOC: Oh. Missed that. Superior Resistance.
[23:00] <Kotono> OOC: Will save.
[23:00] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+33
[23:00] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+33 and gets 42." [1d20=9]
[23:03] <Kotono> Thus you continue to climb up, soonc oming to a landing! Here a door shrouded in shadows awaits, "Plane of Shadow," he says, heading to another stairway going up, "Occasionally there's shadow creatures around, but we're not so unlucky today."
[23:04] <Muirfinn> "I can summon aid if we encounter any, it should be most effective against them." Muirfinn nods as they pass the door.
[23:05] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[23:05] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 95." [1d100=95]
[23:05] <Kotono> roll 1d100 sub tables
[23:05] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 sub tables and gets 71." [1d100=71]
[23:07] <Kotono> Thus you climb, up and up and up and up and up and up and up and up! Another half hour, another landing ahead - perhaps 100 more stairs. "Up here," Tannin calls, "It's a portal to the Abyss." Keeping his voice low, "I'm not sure which layer, but demons are around it sometimes."
[23:10] * Muirfinn raises an eyebrow and nods. "These doors go everywhere, it seems."
[23:11] <Kotono> "They do." OOC: Make a spot check.
[23:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 Tannin
[23:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 Tannin and gets 33." [1d20=12]
[23:11] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+24 true seeing
[23:11] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+24 true seeing and gets 42." [1d20=18]
[23:12] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+2 scent, low light vision dino
[23:12] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+2 scent, low light vision dino and gets 7." [1d20=5]
[23:13] <Kotono> Ahead, about halfway up to the landing, you can see a dark rippling in the air. Something that seems to wrinkle and fold back into itself ahead, as if the air itself was crumbling.
[23:13] <Muirfinn> "That doesn't look good."
[23:15] <Kotono> "What doesn't?" Tannin stops and looks back at Muirfinn.
[23:15] <Muirfinn> "The dark distortion in the air, halfway up the landing. You don't see it?"
[23:17] <Kotono> Tannin turns and peers ago, "Now I do," he says, biting off a curse. Keeping his voice a whisper, "We may have a problem. Can you cast any sort of spell or do something to safely take a peek up there? I'd rather not charge headlong into a possible Abyss-spawn."
[23:21] <Muirfinn> "No, I cannot." Muirfinn shakes his head. "The best I can do is conjure something and send it up there."
[23:21] <Muirfinn> "See if it gets mauled."
[23:21] <Kotono> "Sounds better than going up ourselves," Tannin says, peering up.
[23:23] * Muirfinn nods, summoning a wolf and directing it up the platform. OOC: Winged Watcher sacced for SNA1
[23:23] <Kotono> The creature immediately climbs up! When it reaches 50 steps from the landing?
[23:24] <Kotono> roll 6d6 damage, negative energy damage and what its hit points?
[23:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 6d6 damage, negative energy damage and what its hit points? and gets 16." [6d6=2, 3, 2, 5, 1, 3]
[23:24] <Muirfinn> OOC: 13hp
[23:24] <Muirfinn> OOC: 15, actually. Still dead.
[23:25] <Kotono> The wolf advances up and freezes! It begins to rot immediately, body turning to scraps of flesh and crumbling dust, fading away.
[23:25] <Muirfinn> "I...see. Some sort of negative energy effect? Necrotic magic maybe?"
[23:25] <Kotono> "Your eyes may have just saved our lives," Tannin murmurs, eyes wide and white, staring ahead. "Negative energy or disintegration."
[23:27] * Muirfinn nods. He walks up to the edge of the distortion and peers at it. OOC: Knowledge check to know if a creature is exuding this?
[23:27] <Kotono> OOC: K:P.
[23:27] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+16
[23:27] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+16 and gets 21." [1d20=5]
[23:27] <Muirfinn> OOC: +3
[23:27] <Muirfinn> OOC: So 24
[23:28] <Muirfinn> "I know that there's a demon that exudes this sort of aura...but I can't seem to recall what kind." Muirfinn says back to Tannin.
[23:29] <Kotono> "Hell..." Tannin mutters, "We can brave the aura and hope to slay whatever's causing this before we collapse, or we can turn around, go back to Aurora and get magical transportation. Killing demons is worthwhile, but it's damn near suicidal to go rush one down."
[23:31] * Muirfinn nods. "I'd rather not bear down on a balor or something like that. Caution will win the day here. Perhaps I can dispel it." With that, Muirfinn casts Greater Dispel! OOC: Attempting to target the aura. Dunno if it'll work!
[23:33] <Kotono> Muirfinn casts dispel magic...and nothing happens. Then, "Eh?" A booming voice from above is heard, the sound of bones cracking. "I keep telling you that those lillend don't know when to quit! Go kill whichever one just tried that, Mr. Smiles!"
[23:33] <Kotono> "Fuck." Tannin observes in a single word.
[23:33] <Muirfinn> "...that was probably a mistake." Muirfinn says wryly, backing up in a real hurry.
[23:35] <Kotono> As you begin to back up, you see it! It's at the edge of the landing, at the first stair going down, 99 stairs away from you. It is a human cadaver, pale eyed and rotted. Its face is locked in a rictus grin, scraps of clothing and a set of blood stained black gloves worn. OOC: Init here, the bad guys are moving too and shit may just be getting complicated.

[23:35] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7 Mr. Smiles.
[23:35] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 Mr. Smiles. and gets 25." [1d20=18]
[23:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7 Tannin
[23:36] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 Tannin and gets 8." [1d20=1]
[23:36] * Kotono changes topic to 'Mr Smiles(25)>Tannin(8)'
[23:36] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+10 Muirfinn
[23:36] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+10 Muirfinn and gets 16." [1d20=6]
[23:36] * Kotono changes topic to 'Mr Smiles(25)>Muirfinn(16)>Tannin(8)'
[23:36] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+5 dino
[23:36] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+5 dino and gets 9." [1d20=4]
[23:36] * Kotono changes topic to 'Mr Smiles(25)>Muirfinn(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[23:37] <Kotono> The walking dead is fast! Too fast! It sprints down the stairs in a headlong charge, cackling! "Heeereee's Smiles for everyone!" it calls, one glove clad fist going to sock Tannin good! OOC: Add Tannin and companion to topic HP in #dunes, remove Mirima and company.
[23:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+30 (+2 charge) flatfooted on Tannin
[23:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+30 (+2 charge) flatfooted on Tannin and gets 40." [1d20=10]
[23:39] <Kotono> roll 1d6+7+4+14 and two negative levels
[23:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6+7+4+14 and two negative levels and gets 26." [1d6=1]
[23:40] * Kotono changes topic to 'Mr Smiles(25; +1)>Muirfinn(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[23:40] <Kotono> Tannin is caught right in the jaw, staggering with the blow! HIs entire body seems to wither and shrivel under the assault, as a moment later Mr. Smiles holds up a hand, "It's showtime!" he calls, as...
[23:40] <Muirfinn> "Great Mother!"
[23:41] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 fort Tannin, -2 negative levels.
[23:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 fort Tannin, -2 negative levels. and gets 13." [1d20=1]
[23:41] <Kotono> roll 6d6 ow
[23:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 6d6 ow and gets 24." [6d6=5, 3, 4, 4, 5, 3]
[23:42] <Kotono> Tannin screams, holding his straight up, rigid! His left arm, as his left hand begins to rot before you! in a split second it's gone from healthy to dead, ripping away with a sickening squelch! Blood gushes from the wound as Tannin screams, the hand floating in the air besides him! A twisted face appears in the palm, "Eeat...eat....eat...eateateateat!" OOC: Ow. Muirfinn.
[23:42] * Kotono changes topic to 'Mr Smiles=Hand(25; +1)>Muirfinn(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[23:43] * Kotono changes topic to 'Mr Smiles=Hand(25; +2)>Muirfinn(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[23:45] * Muirfinn boggles for a moment before popping off a quick spell on his companion, then summoning a distraction! OOC: Nature's Avatar on Chok. Air Monolith, acts now.
[23:45] <Kotono> "Oh, I hear the sound of death adn carnage!" The booming voice from above calls, like your legbones snapping in twain, a vicious, sickening crack. "Bring 'em up here, Mr. Smiles! I think we have more sticks for more impalements!"
[23:45] <Muirfinn> roll 21d8 temp hp
[23:45] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 21d8 temp hp and gets 108." [21d8=5, 7, 8, 7, 8, 4, 6, 5, 2, 6, 2, 8, 7, 4, 4, 3, 5, 4, 3, 3, 7]
[23:47] <Muirfinn> The monolith immediately smashes at the undead monstrosity!
[23:47] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+36
[23:47] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+36 and gets 52." [1d20=16]
[23:47] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+36
[23:47] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+36 and gets 53." [1d20=17]
[23:47] <Muirfinn> OOC: Count as magic
[23:48] <Muirfinn> OOC: Scratch
[23:48] <Muirfinn> OOC: Reacting
[23:48] <Muirfinn> The monolith immediately attempts to sweep the undead monstrosity off the platform!
[23:49] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+44 bull rush
[23:49] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+44 bull rush and gets 45." [1d20=1]
[23:49] <Muirfinn> OOC: Using the Corwin Method of Reality Revision, the CMB check is actually 60
[23:51] * Kotono changes topic to 'Mr Smiles=Hand(25; +2)>Muirfinn=Elemental(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[23:51] <Kotono> The Air Elemental slams into Mr. Smiles, sending him flying over the edge and plummeting away! He cackles as he plummets, mixing with Tannin's pained curses!  OOC: Dino, go.
[23:52] * Kotono changes topic to 'Hand(25; +2)>Muirfinn=Elemental(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[23:53] * Kotono changes topic to 'Hand(25)>Muirfinn=Elemental(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[23:53] <Muirfinn> The dino eyes the hand warily before pouncing on it!
[23:54] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+16+2+10
[23:54] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+16+2+10 and gets 45." [1d20=17]
[23:56] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+16+2+10-2
[23:56] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+16+2+10-2
[23:56] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+16+2+10-2
[23:56] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+16+2+10-2 and gets 30." [1d20=4]
[23:56] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+16+2+10-2 and gets 30." [1d20=4]
[23:56] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+16+2+10-2 and gets 27." [1d20=1]
[23:56] <Kotono> OOC: Two hits.
[23:56] <Muirfinn> OOC: Which two?
[23:57] <Kotono> OOC: Oh, three. Missed the first one. Only the 1 missed.
[23:58] <Muirfinn> OOC: Can it be tripped? I'm guessing no. Since it's a floating hand.
[23:58] <Kotono> OOC: No, but this probably isn't going ot matter. Roll damage.
[23:59] <Muirfinn> roll 3#1d6+6 poison DC 17
[23:59] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 3#1d6+6 poison DC 17 and gets 28." [3#1d6+6 = 10, 11, 7]
[23:59] <Muirfinn> OOC: +0
[23:59] <Muirfinn> OOC 30
[00:00] <Kotono> The hand is ripped apart, shredded in the attacks of your animal companion! As it falls to shreds, Tannin still screaming...OOC: Something else is joining init.
[00:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[00:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 21." [1d20=11]
[00:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[00:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 34." [1d20=17]
[00:00] * Kotono changes topic to '????(27)>????(21)>Muirfinn=Elemental(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[00:03] <Kotono> The ground shakes with laughter, "Mr. Smiles! I was fond of him. He was one of the finest devil worshipers I ever killed!" It approaches, coming to the edge of the stair! This massive creature is the size of a giant, and it sports chipped, antlerlike horns from which hang desiccated bodies and skulls. The creature wears intricate armor, and dark, pitted plates cover legs that end in
[00:03] <Kotono> hooves. Its many-fingered hand holds a broad greatsword. Swirling around its body is a phantasmal image, covered in shrouds save for its face. Its face is a mask of pained despair, an amulet hanging from its neck. "Thorazul, Slaughterfriend." It calls down, raising its sword in salute. "My friend here is the Spirit of my Greatest Foe. Oh, and you're dead." It bellows, as you feel a
[00:03] <Kotono> chilling, deathly aura settle over each of you! As that happens, the bonds of magic around you shudder! OOC: Area dispel magic. What spells are active here?
[00:03] * Kotono changes topic to 'Thorazul=Spirit of the Greatest Foe(21)>Muirfinn=Elemental(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[00:03] <Muirfinn> "Would it help to mention that we're also on a mission to kill devils?!" Muirfinn shouts.
[00:04] <Muirfinn> OOC: Superior Resistance, Nature's Avatar, Summon Monolith
[00:04] <Kotono> OOC: CL on each?
[00:04] <Muirfinn> OOC: 21 all
[00:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 Superior Resistance, needs to beat 32.
[00:04] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 Superior Resistance, needs to beat 32. and gets 24." [1d20=7]
[00:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 Nature's Avatar, needs to beat 32.
[00:04] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 Nature's Avatar, needs to beat 32. and gets 20." [1d20=3]
[00:05] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 Monolith, needs to beat 32.
[00:05] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 Monolith, needs to beat 32. and gets 36." [1d20=19]
[00:05] * Kotono changes topic to 'Thorazul=Spirit of the Greatest Foe(21)>Muirfinn(16)>Dino(9)>Tannin(8)'
[00:05] <Kotono> The elemental winks out of existance at that magic, as the chill aura of death eats at each of you!
[00:05] <Kotono> roll 6d6 negative energy damage to all three of you.
[00:05] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 6d6 negative energy damage to all three of you. and gets 22." [6d6=5, 6, 4, 1, 5, 1]
[00:06] * Muirfinn winces as the elemental vanishes and the negative energy sets in.
[00:06] <Kotono> "Hah!" Laughing, "I'll have your bloated spirits feast on devil souls!" OOC: Spirit is up for it's main action.
[00:07] <Muirfinn> "Not quite what I intended." Muirfinn mutters.
[00:07] <Kotono> The spirit reaches out, hand extended! A great cone of cold comes from it, sending waves of freezing ice over the party! OOC: Any of you immune to cold?
[00:08] <Muirfinn> OOC: Noooooope. Water effects only.
[00:08] <Kotono> OOC: Any SR?
[00:08] <Muirfinn> OOC: Also no!
[00:08] <Kotono> OOC: Ref. Note if any of you have evasion.
[00:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 evasion, -2 negative levels
[00:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 evasion, -2 negative levels and gets 31." [1d20=13]
[00:09] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+28 muirfinn, evasion
[00:09] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+28 muirfinn, evasion and gets 46." [1d20=18]
[00:09] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+16 dino, imp. evasion
[00:09] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+16 dino, imp. evasion and gets 26." [1d20=10]
[00:10] <Kotono> But the blast of cold comes! Tannin grimaces despite his pain, ducking down and under it! Muirfinn flows around it like a stream around a rock, while his companion leaps back! The stairs are frosty-cold now, frozen and slicked over, but none of you were hurt! OOC: Muirfinn.
[00:13] * Muirfinn frowns, summoning a solid barrier in the form of an earth monolith, blocking the view of the stairway. It bears down on the two, surging with all the menace of a falling boulder!
[00:14] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+49 bull rushing the demon guy
[00:14] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+49 bull rushing the demon guy and gets 52." [1d20=3]
[00:14] <Muirfinn> Meanwhile, Muirfinn tugs on Tannin. "We need to go."
[00:15] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+19 belated KP
[00:15] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+19 belated KP and gets 21." [1d20=2]
[00:15] <Kotono> OOC: Does the elemental have improved bull rush by the way? It didin't succeed and it provoked if it didn't.
[00:15] <Muirfinn> OOC: It has Push, which is the same thing with a different name.
[00:16] <Muirfinn> OOC: Also, +2 to that bull rush attempt, forgot abotu Earth Mastery
[00:18] <Kotono> CLANG! The sound of stone on body is heard, but you don't see any flying demon plummeting down! OOC: That it for Murifinn that round?
[00:21] <Muirfinn> OOC: Yup
[00:21] <Kotono> OOC: Companion is up.
[00:24] <Muirfinn> At first, the dino goes to lunge forward, but seeing no way it can get around the giant earthen hulk, it settles for looking anxiously at its master. Then it looks at Tannin like he looks delicious.
[00:25] <Muirfinn> OOC: Nothing he can really do right now and he's not trained to drag people, so he'll hold.
[00:25] <Kotono> Tannin immediately stumbles back down the stairs, holding his maimed hand to him, going as fast as he can! OOC: Tannin retreats back. Baddies are up.
[00:25] <Kotono> You hear booming laughter from behind the elemental, as...
[00:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+36
[00:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+36 and gets 40." [1d20=4]
[00:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+31
[00:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+31 and gets 51." [1d20=20]
[00:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+26
[00:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+26 and gets 30." [1d20=4]
[00:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21
[00:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 and gets 39." [1d20=18]
[00:26] <Kotono> OOC: AC of elemental?
[00:26] <Muirfinn> OOC: Whopping 25
[00:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15 greater dispelling, see if that kicks in for it. Needs to get 32.
[00:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 greater dispelling, see if that kicks in for it. Needs to get 32. and gets 31." [1d20=16]
[00:27] <Muirfinn> OOC: 33 actually, +1CL for conjuration
[00:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15 greater dispelling, see if that kicks in for it. Needs to get 33 he'll try multiple charges
[00:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 greater dispelling, see if that kicks in for it. Needs to get 33 he'll try multiple charges and gets 23." [1d20=8]
[00:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15 greater dispelling, see if that kicks in for it. Needs to get 33 he'll try multiple charges
[00:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 greater dispelling, see if that kicks in for it. Needs to get 33 he'll try multiple charges and gets 33." [1d20=18]
[00:29] <Kotono> You hear the sound of ripping stone, as the elemental winks and vanishes entirely! It's gone, the demon standing triumphant! The spirit around it continues to writhe, as the aura of death again chills Muirfinn and the companion!
[00:29] <Kotono> roll 6d6
[00:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 6d6 and gets 22." [6d6=4, 4, 2, 4, 6, 2]
[00:29] <Muirfinn> "That's very irritating!" Muirfinn shouts as the aura slams into them again! OOC: Did it hit Tannin?
[00:30] <Kotono> OOC: He's out of range now since he retreated lke hell.
[00:31] <Kotono> The writhing spirit around the demon leans forward once more, face a slack jawed look of horror! "No, not that..." he moans in despair, but nonetheless opens his hand out! A greasy black aura surrounds Muirfinn and his companion like a sickening miasma of death! OOC: Will, both of you.
[00:31] <Kotono> OOC: What's yoru companion's alignment, by the by?
[00:31] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+27+6 muirf
[00:31] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+27+6 muirf and gets 37." [1d20=4]
[00:31] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+5 chok
[00:31] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+5 chok and gets 20." [1d20=15]
[00:33] <Kotono> roll 10d6 halve this Muirfinn only
[00:33] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 halve this Muirfinn only and gets 36." [10d6=3, 5, 2, 5, 4, 1, 2, 6, 5, 3]
[00:33] <Kotono> roll 5d8 failed the save but is neutral so this is halved anyway, companion only
[00:33] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 failed the save but is neutral so this is halved anyway, companion only and gets 24." [5d8=7, 2, 6, 7, 2]
[00:33] <Kotono> The darkness gnaws at both of them, leaving greasy, dripping wounds all over! Yet they still both stand, as...OOC: Muirfinn, go.
[00:34] <Muirfinn> Once again, Muirfinn summons distractions! OOC Boosted SNA 9.
[00:35] <Muirfinn> roll 1d3+1
[00:35] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d3+1 and gets 3." [1d3=2]
[00:35] <Muirfinn> OOC: 3 greater storm elementals.
[00:36] <Muirfinn> With those summoned, he orders his companion to follow as he shifts into a leopard and takes off at top speed down the stairs!
[00:36] <Kotono> OOC: How exactly are they positioned?
[00:36] <Muirfinn> OOC: 1-2-3, positioned so you can't go around them. They're basically tornadoes with lightning in them that like to blast stuff.
[00:37] <Kotono> OOC: Okay. Just fleeing entirely?
[00:38] <Muirfinn> OOC: Hyeah. Nothing to do here. This guy shuts me down too easy.
[00:38] <Kotono> OOC: Storm elementals just going to attack and try and slow him down?
[00:39] <Muirfinn> OOC: Yep. Basically using Thunder and Lightning to effect, because as long as they stay up, they'll heal each other.
[00:39] <Kotono> OOC: Okay, I'll sort that out for now.
[00:40] <Kotono> Thus Muirfinn flees! You catch up with Tannin after a good minute of fleeing, stumbling down the stairs. Panting in pain as he retreats, "Is he behind us," hec alls, not even looking back.
[00:40] * Muirfinn peeks!
[00:41] <Kotono> Turning back, you can see it. A dot far away in the Infinite Stair, but above you and following doggedly! The huge demon is running down the stairs - fast!
[00:44] <Muirfinn> In response, Muirfinn runs faster!

[Corwin]

[21:29] <Kotono> Thus do the two flee down the great stair! A good few minutes of fleeing keep the pace, but as you do? Muirfinn can note them above - flying women with a snake's body below the waist. They have green hair and green wings, carrying bow and arrows or swords. They're flying in the direction of the demon, who roars loud enough to be heard even as you retreat.
[21:37] <Muirfinn> OOC: How far back is this guy?
[21:38] <Kotono> OOC: Several hundred feet, but you can see he's sloooowly gaining on you.
[21:38] <Kotono> OOC: Say 300 ft.
[21:41] <Muirfinn> Stopping for a brief moment, Muirfinn shifts out of animal form and says "Go on without me, I'll catch up!" He turns and shouts a brief warning to the lillends about how powerful the demon is before he begins casting again, causing a thick, opaque haze to spring into being. Behind it and closer to him, a second spell is cast, causing winds to appear and move with terrible force across
[21:41] <Muirfinn> the walkway! That done, he shifts back and runs full-tilt toward saftey! OOC: Arctic Haze and Control Winds at Tornado level force, winds blowing perpendicular to the stairs. Hoping to blow him off. Check to resist is 24 Fort. In the least, it'll slow him down.
[21:43] <Kotono> OOC: LInk me to control winds?
[21:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+28 let's see how he rolls irregardless
[21:46] <Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+28 let's see how he rolls irregardless --> [ 1d20=18 ]{46}
[21:47] <Muirfinn> OOC: Shhocker. At least the mist is still there. MAybe he'll lose is footing.
[21:47] <Kotono> One of the lillend raises its blade to Muirfinn as she passes, as a freezing haze and great wind engulf the demon ahead! The haze obscures things, but you still don't see a demon going flying off! In the meanwhile...
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 dispel magicking at the wind/haze
[21:48] <Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+17 dispel magicking at the wind/haze --> [ 1d20=13 ]{30}
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 dispel magicking at the wind/haze
[21:48] <Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+17 dispel magicking at the wind/haze --> [ 1d20=3 ]{20}
[21:48] <Muirfinn> OOC: DC 32!
[21:49] <Kotono> As this settles in, the lillend fly above, getting into place! Arrows begin to fly, winged amazons approaching from every direction and letting arrows lose, ones with blades holding back! Meanwhile Tannin glances back and keeps running, as does your companion! OOC: Go.
[21:49] <Muirfinn> OOC: How many lillends are we talking about here?
[21:49] <Kotono> OOC: A few dozen, and you can see more approaching.
[21:50] <Muirfinn> OOC: Oh. Well, that's very reassuring.
[21:50] <Muirfinn> Muirfinn stops again, seeing so many reinforcements coming. He waves at them again, hoping to get one's attention.
[21:51] <Kotono> One with a longsword descends. She wears nothing, save for a belt and scabbard for her sword. The tip of her tail hovers just above the stair Muirfinn stands on, "Hail, brave traveler," she greets, "Is that your magic there? It is not magic I know of from my many sisters."
[21:54] * Muirfinn nods. "It's natural magic. I am Muirfinn, of the Aurora and of Lifasa. I was assisting a friend of mine when we came across this demon up ahead. He is strong enough to dispel my summoned elementals, though we managed to knock his undead companion off the ledge and into...wherever. Perhaps I can help you dispatch him. I will warn you though, he has some sort of negative aura around him, and is enveloped by a spirit that aids him. He seems quite able to dispel magical effects as well."
[21:55] <Kotono> "Our sisters attempted to stop his rampage. He slew a dozen," The lillend says, her voice sweet and yet laden with sorrow. "He is a Deathdrinker, a demon that lives only for battle. This will not be an easy battle, even if he plummets off the sides."
[21:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+28 meanwhile
[21:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+28 meanwhile and gets 37." [1d20=9]
[21:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[21:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[21:56] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 36." [1d20=19]
[21:56] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 21." [1d20=4]
[21:56] <Kotono> The howling winds above sputter out and cease!
[21:57] <Muirfinn> "Mmm. Not good. Mobility here would be key. I have not tried yet, but it appears that you are able to fly off of the pathways. Is there some trick to it?"
[21:58] <Kotono> "It is our art, it is not something any other can do," The lillend quickly explains, "Are you a warrior capable of opposing him? We come able to stop the aura of death around him with an enchantment, but it will be a pricey battle to kill or force him back to the Abyss."
[22:01] * Muirfinn taps his beak. "I may be able to match him, or at least check him where he stands. If you can keep him distracted, we may win the day. I ask this, though. If I fail and die, I will discorporate. Please take my belongings and return them to someone on the Aurora, so that I might later retrieve them. The Aurora currently resides on Ysgard."
[22:05] <Muirfinn> "Can you do this for me?"
[22:06] <Kotono> "You have my word," The lillend says, "I fear our arrows are doing little to him." She reaches out, touching Muirfinn's chest and chanting, as bands of white appear over his body before fading into his flesh. "You are warded now."
[22:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[22:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 20." [1d20=3]
[22:09] * Muirfinn nods, shifting to water elemental form and surging back toward the fray! OOC: Assuming Tannin & Dino are still getting away.
[22:09] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 24." [1d20=7]
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 30." [1d20=13]
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 18." [1d20=1]
[22:10] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[22:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 30." [1d20=13]
[22:10] <Kotono> Muirfinn surges up the stairs! The arctic haze continues to hang, as arrows fly in towards the shourded demon! You're 20ft away from the edge of the haze now, lillends sending down a rain of arrows! OOC: Let's do init here.

[22:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10 Thorazul
[22:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 Thorazul and gets 12." [1d20=2]
[22:11] <Kotono> OOC: Not rolling for greatest, since he auto-holds until Thorazul's first turn and his init mod is higher than that.
[22:11] * Kotono changes topic to 'Thorazul=Spirit of the Greatest Foe(12)'
[22:11] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+5
[22:11] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+5 and gets 22." [1d20=17]
[22:12] * Kotono changes topic to 'Muirfinn(22)>Thorazul=Spirit of the Greatest Foe(12)'
[22:12] <Muirfinn> OOC: Is the demon inside the haze?
[22:13] <Kotono> OOC: You can't tell as it makes vision impossible to use.
[22:13] <Muirfinn> OOC: If he's inside, he needs to make a save.
[22:13] <Muirfinn> OOC: Fort
[22:14] <Muirfinn> OOC: DC 22 for half damage, otherwise he takes 4 cold/round in there
[22:15] <Kotono> OOC: I'm aware, but he has sufficient defenses where the damage is getting walled either way.
[22:15] <Muirfinn> OOC: Ok
[22:15] * Muirfinn simply waits for the beast to emerge from or dispel the haze calmly.
[22:16] <Muirfinn> OOC: Actually
[22:16] <Muirfinn> OOC: Scratch
[22:18] <Muirfinn> Eyeing the haze, Muirfinn shifts out of his form and begins to begins to enhance himself. Not knowing how much of it will hold, he casts everything. OOC: Halo of Sand, Tortoise Shell, Owl's Insight, Aura of Vitality, Cure Critical Wounds. Or howevr many spells I can pop off before he gets through.
[22:19] <Kotono> OOC: WE'll go round by round here. Which one this round?
[22:19] <Muirfinn> OOC: And if he's still in there after I'm done, I'm dropping a Deadfall in there too.
[22:19] <Muirfinn> OOC: All that I just said, in order.
[22:19] <Kotono> OOC: In one round?
[22:20] <Muirfinn> OOC: God no
[22:20] <Kotono> OOC: Okay, Halo of sand this round then? >_>
[22:20] <Muirfinn> OOC: Sec, ophne

[Corwin]

[19:33] <Kotono> > OOC: Okay, Halo of sand this round then? >_>
[19:34] <Muirfinn> OOC: Yep
[19:43] <Kotono> A halo of sand surrounds Muirfinn, protecting him from harm! Then, as arrows rain into the icy fog ahead of you...
[19:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[19:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 36." [1d20=19]
[19:45] <Kotono> The fog shatters! The demon is 30ft away - arrows bounce off its skin without penetrating. Its greatsword is raised and pointed ahead now, "Oooh, something wants a fight?" It ignores the arrows, even as one bounces off it left eye. "Well, here I am!" OOC: Go Muirfinn.
[19:45] <Kotono> OOC: Check that.
[19:45] <Kotono> OOC: Spirit is up.
[19:47] <Kotono> The spirit flowing around Thorazul grimaces, as its mouth splits open wide! Nothing comes out as it whimpers, and yet...OOC: Will save. This is a compulsion and mind-affecting effect. Also, do you have SR?
[19:47] <Muirfinn> OOC: Nooooooope
[19:47] <Kotono> OOC: Will save then.
[19:47] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+27+6
[19:47] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+27+6 and gets 40." [1d20=7]
[19:48] <Kotono> A wave of confusing, babbling thoughts washes over Muirfinn - but his well trained mind thrusts them off and away! OOC: Go Muirfinn.
[19:49] <Muirfinn> Taking no chances with further enspellings, Muirfinn's form surges outward into the form of a water elemental, huge and imposing! It lunges at the pair! OOC: charging, I suppose.
[19:50] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+34+2
[19:50] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+34+2 and gets 42." [1d20=6]
[19:52] <Kotono> OOC: Reach?
[19:52] <Muirfinn> OOC: 15 ft
[19:53] <Muirfinn> OOC: so very short charge
[19:53] <Muirfinn> OOC: Only moving 15 ft
[19:54] <Kotono> OOC: Hit, damage.
[19:54] <Muirfinn> roll 2d10+4+14
[19:54] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 2d10+4+14 and gets 28." [2d10=3, 7]
[19:54] <Muirfinn> OOC counts as magic
[19:57] <Kotono> The blow hits Thorazul in the chest! His body is as hard as steel, soaking up the blow with only partial give! "Felt that one!" He booms, "Time to get serious about this!" Raising his blade up, bands of blood flowing around it, "Devour!" he calls, before his weapon stabs down on Muirfinn!
[19:58] <Muirfinn> OOC: AC 59, still 15 ft away
[19:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+36 (4 blood points spent)
[19:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+36 (4 blood points spent) and gets 46." [1d20=10]
[19:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+31
[19:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+31 and gets 51." [1d20=20]
[19:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+31 crit?
[19:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+31 crit? and gets 47." [1d20=16]
[19:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+26
[19:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+26 and gets 44." [1d20=18]
[19:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21
[19:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 and gets 23." [1d20=2]
[19:59] <Kotono> roll 4d6+23 any DR that can be bypassed?
[19:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d6+23 any DR that can be bypassed? and gets 39." [4d6=3, 4, 4, 5]
[19:59] <Muirfinn> OOC: No, but as a reminder I am immune to criticals
[20:00] <Kotono> OOC: Okay. Still a normal hit since natural 20, but no crit threat then.
[20:00] <Kotono> Muirfinn's defenses are up, parrying most of the barrage! He endures one cut across his watery arm, slicing through cleanly! As this happens, the spirit around Thorazul extends out...OOC: Provokes an AoO if you want ot take it.
[20:01] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+34
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+34 and gets 48." [1d20=14]
[20:01] <Kotono> OOC: Hit. d100.
[20:01] <Muirfinn> roll 1d100
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d100 and gets 38." [1d100=38]
[20:02] <Kotono> The blow passes harmlessly through the phantasm as it reaches out for Muirfinn!
[20:02] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 touch AC?
[20:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 touch AC? and gets 27." [1d20=8]
[20:02] <Muirfinn> OOC: 27
[20:03] <Kotono> roll 2d8 plus 8 vile and fort.
[20:03] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8 plus 8 vile and fort.  and gets 11." [2d8=7, 4]
[20:03] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+31+6
[20:03] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+31+6 and gets 39." [1d20=2]
[20:04] <Kotono> The touch rocks Muirfinn, a feeling of roiling violation coming over him - but he stands tall, resisting a horrible, draining feeling! As this happens a cry of magic washes over him! At the same time, a lillend lands behind you, touching your watery back! OOC: Blessed, +1 morale to attack rolls and saves first fear. The other one is using CLW on you, roll incoming.
[20:04] <Kotono> roll 1d8+5 healing
[20:04] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+5 healing and gets 7." [1d8=2]
[20:04] <Kotono> OOC: You're up, Muirfinn. Go.
[20:06] * Muirfinn lays into the demon with all the fury of a tempestuous ocean!
[20:06] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+32+1
[20:06] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+32+1
[20:06] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+27+1
[20:06] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+22+1
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+32+1 and gets 43." [1d20=10]
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+32+1 and gets 51." [1d20=18]
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+27+1 and gets 41." [1d20=13]
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+22+1 and gets 25." [1d20=2]
[20:08] <Kotono> OOC: Three hits.
[20:08] <Muirfinn> roll 3#2d10+4+14 counts as magic for DR
[20:08] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 3#2d10+4+14 counts as magic for DR and gets 79." [3#2d10+4+14 = 27, 30, 22]
[20:10] <Kotono> Slam after slam rocks Thorazul! He takes each one without falling, grinning more and more as you press him back! "Finally, a real opponent!" he crows, ignoring more arrows, "I'll finish this in a single blow!" With that...!
[20:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 (-20 PA)
[20:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 (-20 PA) and gets 35." [1d20=19]
[20:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[20:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 20." [1d20=9]
[20:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[20:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 15." [1d20=9]
[20:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+1
[20:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+1 and gets 21." [1d20=20]
[20:11] <Muirfinn> OOC: AC AW SHIT
[20:11] <Kotono> roll 4d6+63
[20:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d6+63 and gets 82." [4d6=4, 6, 3, 6]
[20:12] <Muirfinn> OOC: AC 61, btw
[20:13] <Kotono> He swings and swings, his first blows slamming down onto the stairs before Muirfinn! The entire stair shakes under the impact, but then he suddenly rips up! His blade cuts through Muirfinn's front, a massive cleave! Watery fluid erupts out, the blade drawn back as the spirit surges forward! OOC: Trips an AoO from you if you want to take it.
[20:14] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+34+1
[20:14] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+34+1 and gets 37." [1d20=2]
[20:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 touch AC Hatebottin'
[20:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 touch AC Hatebottin' and gets 31." [1d20=12]
[20:14] <Kotono> roll 2d8 plus 8 vile and fort
[20:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8 plus 8 vile and fort and gets 8." [2d8=1, 7]
[20:14] <Muirfinn> OOC: 29
[20:15] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+31+6
[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+31+6 and gets 52." [1d20=15]
[20:16] <Kotono> The touch is utterl yloathesome, sapping Muirfinn's spirit even more! His vision is wobbling and watery, as if underwater. His body isg rowing numb, unresponsible and dazed! He can feel the touches on his back, clarifying slightly as a second lillend hovers to his side, "He's too strong! Fall back and save yourself!"
[20:16] <Kotono> roll 1d8+5+2d8+8
[20:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+5+2d8+8 and gets 25." [1d8=7][2d8=1, 4]
[20:17] <Kotono> OOC: You're up.
[20:18] <Muirfinn> OOC: If I move out of combat, does it provoke an AoO?
[20:19] <Kotono> OOC: If you use the withdraw action it does not, otherwise it does.
[20:21] * Muirfinn flows like water, his form taking a feline shape as he abruptly reverses course and flees underneath the lillends! OOC: Withdrawing, moving 100 ft back.
[20:24] <Kotono> Pained and wounded, Muirfinn withdraws back! Thorazul laughs, striding forward and ignoring the slashes and arrows of the lillend, "I'm not fucking DONE playing with you, fool!" he bellows, pointing his blade out as he descends 50ft towards Muirfinn! OOC: Greater dispel, spells active on you?
[20:25] <Muirfinn> OOC: Superior Resistance, Halo of Sand
[20:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 DC 32 or higher
[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 DC 32 or higher and gets 25." [1d20=8]
[20:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 DC 32 or higher sand
[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 DC 32 or higher sand and gets 24." [1d20=7]
[20:26] <Kotono> But nothing happens! The spirit continues to writhe around Thorazul, crying out in pain! "He won't stop!" he calls, "Run! Run! Run! RUN!" Meanwhile a lillend lands by Muirfinn, touching him again, "None of our greater heroes are in this part of the Stair right now!" she reports, "Can you do anything to slow him down?" she asks this, even as another healing spell touches him!
[20:26] <Kotono> roll 1d8+5
[20:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+5 and gets 12." [1d8=7]
[20:26] <Kotono> OOC: You're up, Muirfinn.
[20:27] * Muirfinn sets himself into a dead run, opening space between himself and the unholy demon. He nods at the lillend, jerking his head forward. OOC: Need breathing room.
[20:28] <Muirfinn> OOC: Also, Run action.
[20:28] <Kotono> OOC: How far are you moving?
[20:28] <Muirfinn> OOC: 200 ft
[20:29] <Kotono> Muirfinn swiftly runs down the stairs, 250ft away now! Meanwhile Thorazul follows! He runs and runs, and then he makes a massive leap!
[20:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+44
[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+44 and gets 45." [1d20=1]
[20:30] <Kotono> He cleans 100ft, ending up 150ft away from Muirfinn! HE lands with a heavy, thudding impact, the stairs beneath him creaking and cracking! OOC: Go Muirfinn.
[20:32] <Muirfinn> Good enough, Muirfinn decides. He resumes his natural form, using abilities granted by careful study and gifts from the Mother Ocean to heal himself! OOC: Heal. Gonna cast again if I get the chance. Let's see what he does.
[20:33] <Kotono> Thorazul charges ahead 100ft, the Spirit of the Greatest Foe howling as it is sucked into his greatsword! Ending up 50ft from Muirfinn, he raises the blade high and sends it slashing down! "Blade of the Howling Laments!" he bellows, as the Spirit is hurled right at Muirfinn, hands first!
[20:33] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 touch AC? (+2 counts as charge)
[20:33] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 touch AC? (+2 counts as charge) and gets 35." [1d20=14]
[20:34] <Kotono> roll 2d8 plus 8 vile and fort
[20:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8 plus 8 vile and fort and gets 11." [2d8=6, 5]
[20:34] <Muirfinn> OOC: Not that.
[20:36] <Kotono> OOC: Fort?
[20:37] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+27+6
[20:37] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+27+6 and gets 35." [1d20=2]
[20:37] <Kotono> roll 1d8*1.5 con drain ow not a good time for another damn 2
[20:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8*1.5 con drain ow not a good time for another damn 2 and gets 12." [1d8=8]
[20:39] <Kotono> The spirit rips through Muirfinn, his body crumbling and drying out as it passes through him! Suddnely his entire body barely can be felt, health ripped away! His lungs shudder and coughs wrack him! Meanwhile the spirit ends up 50ft behind him, glowing watery blue! "Such thick life force! Sir...he's strong! Really strong!" It mewls.
[20:40] <Kotono> "Hah," Grinning as the lillends follow, "You'll make a good one!" One reaches Muirfinn from above, touching him with healing once more!
[20:40] <Kotono> roll 2d8+9 and you're up, Muirfinn.
[20:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8+9 and you're up, Muirfinn. and gets 22." [2d8=6, 7]
[20:47] * Muirfinn aborts this attempt as well, shifting and fleeing at all speed! OOC: Nother 200 ft
[20:48] <Kotono> OOC: You do know 50ft behind you is the Spirit, right? You'll provoke an AoO running past. You okay with that?
[20:48] <Muirfinn> OOC: To stay still is death.
[20:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 touch AC?
[20:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 touch AC? and gets 38." [1d20=19]
[20:49] <Muirfinn> OOC: He wins
[20:49] <Kotono> roll 2d8 plus 8 and fort
[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8 plus 8 and fort and gets 4." [2d8=1, 3]
[20:49] <Kotono> OOC: 8 vile, excuse me.
[20:49] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+27+6
[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+27+6 and gets 36." [1d20=3]
[20:49] <Kotono> roll 1d8*1.5 hatebot in full force what's your con after this?
[20:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8*1.5 hatebot in full force what's your con after this? and gets 9." [1d8=6]
[20:50] <Muirfinn> OOC: Con is 7. LET'S SEE IF I DIED
[20:51] * Muirfinn surges past the apparition, slows to a trot, then keels over.
[20:55] <Kotono> As Muirfinn collapases, he hears laughter and then...warmth. The warmth of a healing touch, stirring the encroaching darkness.
[20:55] <Kotono> roll 2d8+9
[20:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8+9 and gets 22." [2d8=7, 6]
[20:57] <Kotono> Through hazy eyes Muirfinn can see - feel - he's lying on the stair. Ahead...he can make out the fuzzy shape of Thorazul. Around him are lillends, fighting him with blade and bow...as his blade cuts through one after another. At your side is a kneeling lillend, "You're still alive?" she asks, a look of relief crosses her face, tears falling, "My sisters are dying before me! I beg of you,
[20:57] <Kotono> good sir, if you have anything that can stop him, or knock him off the stairs...! If not, take my hand and we'll jump, so at least we'll not perish this day."
[21:03] * Muirfinn blinks and looks around groggily. "In my state...I am sorry. I was hoping to beat him with enough space and enough spells. Now...I can barely stand. Barely breathe. Let us fall. Order your sisters to retreat. Should I survive, I can bring others, those who are more skilled than I in combat. For now though...I am somewhat useless."
[21:09] <Kotono> Muirfinn's hand is taken, as the battle is a fuzzy mess before him. "Now!" she urges, flying to the side, "Roll if you must, but he's distracted now!"
[21:09] * Muirfinn rolls!
[21:10] <Kotono> Falling. Plummeting. Falling. Abyss. Falling. Falling. Falling. OOC: More.
[21:10] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 35." [1d100=35]
[21:10] <Kotono> roll 2#1d100
[21:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2#1d100 and gets 135." [2#1d100 = 35, 100]
[21:12] <Kotono> roll 1d100 subtable check
[21:12] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 subtable check and gets 34." [1d100=34]

[21:15] <Kotono> Unawareness comes to Muirfinn. How long it lasts he isn't sure, until...there's nothing but his awareness. Just thinking, just being without realizing. Until a voice - dry and masculine to you, even though it has no tone. 'Ahem. Excuse me. Mr. Tortle, I would request a few moments of your time.'
[21:16] * Muirfinn moves a lazy eye toward the sound. "How can I...help you?" He smiles wryly at the irony of it all.
[21:19] <Kotono> Muirfinn sees nothing. Only darkness. 'I am Talen. If you could, could you explain to me the last things you remember before you passed out?'
[21:21] <Muirfinn> "Large demon, lots of lillends, an undead devil I think? And lots of falling. Lots of it." Muirfinn says. "Where am I? It's not the Abyss or one of the Nine Hells? I suppose it would be too much to ask that I would up on Ysgard or Elysium."
[21:23] <Kotono> 'Worry not of your current location.' There is a pause, 'That matches with Vivantha told us. Tell me, what is your name?'
[21:24] <Muirfinn> "Muirfinn. Muirfinn of the Aurora." Muirfinn attempts to lever himself up. "I really do need to get moving, I left some companions on the Infinite Stair, and I worry for their saftey."
[21:29] <Kotono> 'Peace. You'll not be leaving until we finish our negotiations,' The voice says with a dry amusement, 'Perhaps we can negotiate sending relief there as well.'
[21:30] * Muirfinn looks about, reaching up to adjust his spectacles to make certain that they are working. "Negotiations?"
[21:31] <Kotono> Muirfinn does not feel anything, hands not moving or even felt. 'Negotations,' The voice continues, 'I am a Mercane. You caused quite a stirring - this place is sealed to non Mercane, but the two of you plunged out of the sky.'
[21:33] <Muirfinn> "Ah," Muirfinn relaxes. "Mercane. I have met a few of you in Brightwater. Our apologies for intruding. It was not our intent, but it was either fall or die."
[21:34] <Kotono> 'Yes, yes. We had sealed this region from the Infinite Stair, but it seems to have overcome them.' Chuckling, 'Your fall was not without profit, for it alerted us to the problem. First of all...you said you are from Aurora? Are you familiar with the Mercane Filbrez?"
[21:36] <Muirfinn> "Filbrez? Yes, he runs a shop there. Good man."
[21:39] <Kotono> 'Yes, you've been good customers to him,' Talen replies. 'The Aurora market is growing at an explosive pace. We'd like a bigger share of that market.'
[21:41] <Muirfinn> "Well, why don't you tell me what you can bring to the table?"
[21:45] <Kotono> 'First, we'd like to expand Filbrez's shop space and send over several other Mercane to help him expand. Second, we'd like access to General Afina's forges and the ability to purchase from her at cost. Third, we'd like to arriange an account with Aurora in the Union Bank.'
[21:53] * Muirfinn nods slowly. "It's possible. General Afina's assistance will need to be discussed with her, though. It's not something I can guarantee. As to the first and third, I'd appreciate a bit more clarity there."
[21:54] <Kotono> 'What sort of clarity do you desire?'
[21:55] <Muirfinn> "Please explain how you will expand the shop and to what extent, as well as the account with the...Union Bank?"
[22:02] <Kotono> 'We are looking to triple floor space, as well as acquire more offices for upkeep and a secured gold storage chamber. As for Union Bank, we are the premier financial service in all Creation. Only the elite have accounts with us, as there is a one million gold minimum. In Union Bank, your gold is safe, come even the End of Creation. We offer proxy payment services, discreet shopping of
[22:02] <Kotono> all types and myriad other services for when your money needs to do things that you don't want attached to you.'
[22:05] * Muirfinn thinks. "Wouldn't the end of creation negate the value and meaning of gold?"
[22:06] <Kotono> 'Minor details. The point is that your money is safe.' Going on from that, 'No pesky thieves or brigands calling themselves adventurers taking your gold. We also offer a variety of wealth management services, as well as several experts in hoard management foro those of a draconic persuasion.'
[22:08] <Muirfinn> "We have nigh impenetrable walls and golems for that, as well as thousands of well-paid and loyal soldiers. What you're basically tellimg me is that we can have a vault we don't need, and all it will cost us is a million gold, unfettered access to crafting at cost, and extra floor space? What are you offering in return?"
[22:14] <Kotono> 'First of all, healing you and tending to you, as well as providing safe transport to Aurora.' Talen explains, 'Most intruders to the Bank face summary execution. Second, your money can do many things with us, and we can alert you to special money making opportunities across the Planes. Third, powerful agents and even powers themselves are known to come here on business. Visiting clients
[22:14] <Kotono> have the chance to meet and network with the cream of the planes.'
[22:29] <Muirfinn> "So you're saying that I am at the Bank then? That's interesting. Execution though? That does seems rather harsh. Especially since I can't see anything. Or move. Or do anything, really. And you probably know by now that I'm not your enemy. The lack of trust here is really rather unnerving."
[22:30] <Kotono> 'You have to understand, we take security seriously,' Voice still dry ,but taking on a more calming tone, 'Right now we're speaking in your mind while you sleep. With the amounts of money we have, we have to be exceedingly careful.'
[22:34] <Muirfinn> "I suppose that makes sense. You can relax, though. I won't steal from you. It's not in my nature."
[22:35] <Kotono> 'I'm inclined to agree,' Talen agrees easily, 'Ah, perhaps I should at least rouse you now.' That's followed by a flash of pain, followed by deep rooted, miserable fatigue.  Muirfinn lies on a bed - his vision is fuzzy, but a haze of gold seems to cover everything. Talen's voice comes from just out of sight, "You're still poorly off."
[22:37] <Muirfinn> "Well, undead and demons don't play nice." Muirfinn grumbles, shifting a bit. "I feel as though I am in dire need of several restoration spells."
[22:39] <Kotono> A bluish haze enters Muirfinn's vision, sitting nearby. He can't make out details, but there's white to him, as if wearing white. "Your vision is damaged, your lifeforce is severely mauled, your body is wounded and you have cursed wounds on your body," he recites, "All can be fixed." Leaning forward, face becoming only semi-hazy, light blue eyes meeting Muirfinn's, "Really, agreement is
[22:39] <Kotono> best for both of us. We both offer each other great gains, and this agreement would prevent any of the more hardline Mercane from taking offense at this invasion. After all, a paying customer is always right."
[22:42] <Muirfinn> "If you can agree to grant the option for further negotiations to a finer degree, I will accept. Hopefully Afina won't decide to set me on fire or something."
[22:43] <Kotono> "To clarify, what were the finer negotiations you wanted," Talen asks.
[22:45] <Muirfinn> "Whatever the others want to discuss. I'm really not at liberty to say, because I don't know. For all I know, they'll agree to the set terms."

[Corwin]

[19:26] <Kotono> "This is tentatively acceptable," Talen replies, rustling around in the hazy vision all around you. Soon he is at your side, "Drink." Something warm and wet is at your lips, like hot syrup.
[19:27] <Muirfinn> Not really having a choice, Muirfinn does so.
[19:30] <Kotono> The liquid tastes of cherries and almonds. Muirfinn feels a lethargy settle over him, even as his vision clears. Warmth spreads throughout his body! You lie in a room made of marble, snowy white and speaking of great wealth. Rich purple curtains hang from darkened windows. Talen is tall and with a sharp face, everything edges and angles. "Can you see now?" OOC: Heal effect, +150 HP.
[19:30] <Kotono> Vision restored.
[19:31] <Muirfinn> "Ah, yes. That's much better. I feel a bit revitalized, though still very weak." Muirfinn says. "Good to finally see more than a blue blur."
[19:32] <Kotono> Talen rises. He goest to a small table of rich wood set up nearby, several glass bottles and a decanter there. He mixes golden liquid from the decanter into a bottle full of sky blue liquid, mixing them together. The entire room shimmers golden as this happens, the bottle brough to Muirfinn. "This next."
[19:35] * Muirfinn drinks dutifully.
[19:35] <Kotono> This is just like the last drink, save that it washes away the deeper pain and fatigue, bringing energy back! OOC: Ability drain restored.
[19:37] <Muirfinn> "Ohhh my, that's much better." Muirfinn says, heaving himself up into a sitting position. He examines himself as he does so.
[19:38] <Kotono> His gear is intact, looks like. "Unfortunately, there are no sanctified or unholy grounds within this realm," Talen explains, "We cannot cure the cursed wounds you bear here. But no matter, come with me. Allow me to show you around, so that Aurora can better appreciate its investment."
[19:42] * Muirfinn grimaces. "The wounds will have to keep until I return to the Aurora then. We have consecrated grounds there. As for the tour, I'd like to see the lillend who arrived with me first, if at all possible."
[19:44] <Kotono> "She's elsewhere. I'll take you to her." Heading to the door out, "I'll tell you a story as we walk. It's an old one, but it explains the Union Bank. There's a great sense of history to this place, once you appreciate it all."
[19:45] * Muirfinn nods as he regains his feet, heading after. "Lead on, then."
[19:51] <Kotono> You come out into a rich hall, wide enough for ten men to walk abreast. Everything is snowy marble, the ceiling 40ft up, huge arches and decorated ceilings. Above you are great frescoes, along with statues that float in mid air just below them, adding ot the scenes. Scenes of mercane and wealth, each mercane tall, well formed, beautiful and quite obviously wealthy. "Ages ago, the Mercane
[19:51] <Kotono> amassed great wealth. But yet, as any dragon can tell you, great wealth brings great thievery. Despite the best work of our spellcrafters and the Wardens of Gold, much of our great wealth was taken. In time, one of our number proposed a better way. We would create an entire city to feed us wealth and protect our treasures, an entire demiplane to be created. We would only admit the
[19:51] <Kotono> strongest of the strong, hiring them for princely sums. This city was called Union. Alas, it was a doomed venture. Bound outsiders resisted and found ways to rebel. Our r ichly paid mercenaries realized they could be much richer betraying us. All we rejected from Union as being unworthy banded together for revenge." Going to a stairway going down, that moves of its own volition, the
[19:51] <Kotono> steps taking you down like a smooth wave, "Union collapsed on itself."
[19:54] * Muirfinn nods. "Such is the nature of the corruptive power of greed."
[19:54] <Muirfinn> "In the end, the only one you can rely on for something so important is yourself."
[19:58] <Kotono> "Wise words, sir. Wise words." As you reach the bottom of the stairs, the way ahead is a huge, arched door that must be a good 50ft tall, engraved with the image of a vast pile of golden coins. "Union collapsed. The losses were incalculable! Thousands of Mercane were reduced to abject poverty, and several committed suicide in despair! A horrible time! Then an idea came. Let Union be
[19:58] <Kotono> forgotten, and instead take a different tack.  Discretion above all, dealing with only the richest and most powerful. Entities that likewise understand the need for...discretion. Offer them services to make it worthwhile, and manage their money as a bank. Services not tied to a Heaven or a Hell, or Law or Chaos, Fire or Ice, or any other competing forces. All know the Mercane only care
[19:58] <Kotono> for money. We are perfectly neutral in all affairs, and can do much with a few quiet words from a valued customer."
[20:02] * Muirfinn looks like he's going to ask a question, pauses, then thinks better of it and instead says, "There are certain benefits of neutrality, yes. So you created this place instead?"
[20:07] <Kotono> "We used Union for it. An empty city, long forgotten and sealed with potent magic, the best money can buy. Various interests are now invested in ensuring we maintain both stability and secrecy." Smiling as the you approach the door, which opens as you come close, "You'd be surprised. You might think fiends flock to this and none other, but everyone has need for discretion." Pausing a
[20:07] <Kotono> moment, "Combat is strictly forbidden in Union Bank. This is a neutral ground of all types. Likewise, any sort of divinations are blocked here. Rivalries and eternal battles pause while here."
[20:10] * Muirfinn nods. "Understandable. I can abide by it. I'm not the type to rush headlong into combat, most times."
[20:13] <Kotono> Ahead of you are vast plazas, each one easily 100ft wide, streets of gold ahead. The sky is a perfect night sky, shining with what must be thousands of silvery stars. The air is warm, like the nights of late spring. Great buildings of pure white marble line the streets as far as you can see, enough marble to bankrupt even a grand emperor about, carved pleasingly. Occasionally you see
[20:13] <Kotono> fountains about. "Union Bank. Far grander than we need, but there was no profit in letting all we built for Union simply decay. Our guests enjoy only the best accomidations." The paths are slightly hilly, the buildings built into that. Occasional short stairways are dotted about the paths, helping when the slopes become steeper.
[20:15] * Muirfinn nods. "Yes, I noticed the room I was in was really quite nice. Magic is used to shape these, then? I gather that it would take ages to do by hand."
[20:22] <Kotono> "Oh yes, the best magical artisans of the age were hired for Union," Talen affirms, rubbing his hands together, "Including a few mercane with skill in the art. I heard they made incredible amounts of profit. As you go slowly uphill, heading down these paths. Ahead is a fountain surrounded by benches and tables of swirling air. Sitting on one and studying the fountain are a pair of figures.
[20:22] <Kotono> One is clad in gray robes, blending into its gray skin. It is tall, with spindly hands and disturbingly deep eyes, that seem to be staring at you despite not looking at you. Talen clears his throat, "The gentleman there is Mr. Galpac, an ultroloth managing the assets of a particular fiend that would prefer to remain nameless." The other is an angel, radiating a gentle white glow. He is
[20:22] <Kotono> strong of body, perfectly carved, as if a statue given life. His black hair is perfectly in place, wings symmetrical to the feather. He wears armor of silver. "That is Light of Tomorrow, who sees to the affairs of a certain celestial." Between the two outsiders is a chess board, the two playing with a blazing speed, moving a piece every second, if not faster yet.
[20:25] * Muirfinn nods, watching intrigued at the lightning-paced game. "There is a certain value in a peace that can bring factions together like that."
[20:27] <Kotono> "There is golden truth in that," The voice is gorgeous, sung more than spoken. Light of Tomorrow looks up from his game, all the while continuing to play back and forth. Smiling slightly, as you can see the eyes of the fiend narrow, "We play to settle the accounts of disputed souls that both our realms have a valid claim to. You can watch if you like, though we are days away from an
[20:27] <Kotono> endgame."
[20:28] <Kotono> "Wasteful fool," The ultroloth hisses, "Spilling gold-tinkling secrets as if the were worthless trash."
[20:30] <Kotono> "Why," With a voice of the utmost innocence and love, "What good is hoarded gold? It profits none but the miser. I will shout good and fair secrets from the top of the mountains to the rivers of magma below the firmanent, should it bring joy and hope."
[20:33] <Muirfinn> Smiling at the pair, Muirfinn says, "You two remind me of my wife and I when we were younger. I'd love to stay and watch, but my guide likely has things to discuss with me."
[20:36] <Kotono> Talen discreetly laughs into his hand, as Light of Tomorrow grins, "Yes dear," he drawls to the 'loth. "You know, love," Drawling that with a distinct inflection of teasing, singing humor, "If you put aside your hate, pride and bitterness, we could keep playing forever."
[20:38] <Kotono> The 'loth pauses in his gameplay, "I think that if I had to sound like you, I'd sooner race to oblivion." Going back to his game, as the angel chuckles and Talen speaks softly, "They've been playing chess for....at least 30,000 years, whenever they're not doing business here. They're quite evenly matched, and perhaps even friends of a sort. But come."
[20:38] * Muirfinn nods.
[22:18] <Kotono> Thus the two of you ascend higher up. As you ascend, "So, how do you spent your wealth," Talen ask.s
[22:23] <Muirfinn> "Personally, I have spent most of my wealth so that I am in better capacity to do my job. As a holy man for my people and a student of nature, I often need to be able to seen the unseen, and summon creatures. Or were you referring to the Aurora in general?"
[22:26] <Kotono> "Oh, in general, in general," He goes on, "How do you use your portfolio?"
[22:27] <Muirfinn> "...portfolio?"
[22:28] <Kotono> "Your money, your land, magical items, investments?" Going on, "Your unified wealth. Treasury? Hoard?"
[22:31] <Muirfinn> "Oh, you mean the treasury. Yes. Well, it's somewhat complicated. Most of our wealth is taken either from salvaged devil goods, evil dragons' hoards, or something like that. Our land consists of a mobile demiplane under our control. Magical items are crafted or given on a need-basis. Any money coming in is divided in half, with half going to fund the Aurora for improvements, and the
[22:31] <Muirfinn> other half divided among those responsible for bringing it in. This portion is for their personal use."
[22:32] <Kotono> "Mmm-hmm. So you're in the scavenging business with a strong primary investment in a demi plane. Oh, and you have magical item creation ability," Going on, "That's an interesting portfolio, just waiting to be exploited."
[22:33] <Muirfinn> "That's not a positive word." Muirfinn remarks with a sidelong look.
[22:35] <Kotono> "It is when you're benefiting from it, and Aurora will." As you climb up another short stairway, you can see ahead. Past streets and streets is one huge building, the size of a mountain. It's made of what looks to be pure gold, staggering in the raw wealth it shines with!  Stamped on the front in huge letters the size of houses is 'Union Bank'.
[22:39] <Muirfinn> Up and up Muirfinn's eyebrows climb! "So...that's a lot of gold. Reminds me of some of the undersea ruins on Lifasa. More gold, though. How does it support itself? I know that gold is soft compared to other metals. It shouldn't be able to support its own weight, unless there's stone underneath the gold."
[22:39] <Muirfinn> "Ah, magic of course."
[22:40] <Muirfinn> "What do you plan to do to increase the Aurora's wealth? Our coffers can fluctuate wildly at times."
[22:42] <Kotono> "We nicely asked the gold not to fall apart with magic." Smoothly going on, "Ah, it's time for me to explain a few things. ARe you familiar with investing, wealth diversity and loan interest?"
[22:44] <Muirfinn> "I'm afraid you'll have to explain it all to me. I'm not familiar with these things." Muirfinn explains. "I spent most of my life in a tribal community with infrequent contact with other races."
[22:48] <Kotono> "Ah, I understand." Pausing a moment, stopping before another marble building, "In here. We'll talk after you're reunited with your friend."
[22:49] <Muirfinn> "Sounds like a good plan." Muirfinn agrees.
[22:49] <Muirfinn> "Just inside?" Muirfinn heads for the door.
[22:52] <Kotono> "Just inside," Talen leads the way. Within is ACK! A lillend opens the door as you come to it, "Brave sir!" she exhales, green hair sagging with the rest of her as she signs in relief. She puts a hand to her chest, "Glory to the Light that you're safe! You didn't deserve to fall for such freely given valor."
[22:57] * Muirfinn blink-blinks a moment and then chuckles. "And here I was worried for your saftey. I am fine, though it was indeed a close thing. You have my thanks for your aid in escaping, and my condolences for the loss of so many of your sisters. I regret that I could not stand long enough to destroy the demon. Hopefully, when I return to the Aurora, I can gather my companions and leaders,
[22:57] * Muirfinn and we can go and destroy the beast. Would you like to join us?"
[23:00] <Kotono> Tears shimmer in her eyes but she nods, "Yes. They cannot have died for nothing," she replies, "I'm Vivantha."
[23:01] <Muirfinn> "Muirfinn of the Aurora, and Lifasa. A pleasure to properly meet you." Muirfinn bows.
[23:04] <Kotono> "We have to hurry," Speaking quickly to that, "Can you help us leave?"
[23:05] <Kotono> "If haste is required, yes," Talen speaks up, "Is that so?"
[23:07] <Muirfinn> "It is." He says to Talen. "Why don't you send some representatives to the Aurora, Talen? You should really be discussing this with our generals, anyway. They make the major financial decisions, and understand this more, I'd reckon. I'd suggest against inviting them here, though, as some of them can be a bit hasty in their dislike of devils. At least at first."
[23:09] <Kotono> "We will." Snapping his fingers, a pair of golden horses appear. "Mount these horses and think of where you wish to go. They'll take you there."
[23:10] * Muirfinn grumbles something about mammals and their love of other giant mammals, while struggling to get onto the horse.
[23:13] <Kotono> "Excuse me!?" Suddenly blushing and hiding her bosom with her arms, crossing them over, "That's entirely inappropriate to say!"
[23:14] * Muirfinn blinks. "...I said 'mammals.'"
[23:15] <Kotono> Blushing hotly and looking away, grumbling, "I-I thought you...nevermind it!" Just going to get on one of the horses, "So were are we going, Muirfinn?" she mutters, looking pointedly away from him.
[23:19] * Muirfinn very carefully does not laugh. Always the diplomat. "We go to the Aurora, stationed on Ysgard. Imagine a massive floating island with a castle on it. Lots of room. Nice place." he looks Talen. "Will that be sufficient, or should we shift to Ysgard proper first?"
[23:20] <Kotono> "Think and you will be taken. It will be a one way trip," he informs them, "Good fortune and profits ahead."
[23:23] * Muirfinn nods. "See you around!" With that, he thinks! Aurora!