Soulriders 5.0: Legend of the Unending Games

[20:15] <Koaway> The mists ensweep Shamal like an old lover's caress, chilling her as the distance and calmness of the Astral Plane dilutes. The debris covered path to a colored pool fades into misty indistinctness, Demedais and a grand sharp white quartz chamber ahead.
[20:18] * Demedais nods at Shamal as she approaches. "Good to see you. For a while Seira thought you were trapped in the Plane of Water."
[20:19] <Shamal> "Come along, mr bear, almost there," Shamal urges her companion on as they traverse the mists back into... well, it's not quite the Prime Material, is it? But it's close enough! "Not quite," she tells Demedais, her voice sounding awfully relaxed. "Portal mishap sent me to the Astral Plane instead - I was actually just about to find a portal back, but this is more convenient."
[20:22] <Demedais> "Yeah, Seira learned from Oolu that you probably got dragged to the Astral Plane. She exhausted herself trying to reopen the portal, it sounds like." Demedais nods. "I came here to Uatu, figuring that you were trapped. Mmm." He rubbed his head, a bit nervously. "You always do find work to do no matter where you go, don't you?"
[20:24] <Kotono> Soon the Astra is left behind, Shamal fully in this misty, neboulous chamber.  It is chilly here, potent but silent. Uatu glows briefly as Shamal enters, before the platform it is on slowly drifts back.
[20:24] <Shamal> "You don't know the half of it," the blonde shakes her head, waving gratefully towards the crystal that brought her back. "I'll have a lot to report back at the city... how long have I been gone?"
[20:31] <Demedais> "Um. About a week total." Demedais says.
[20:32] <Shamal> "Oh, I expected to feel more hungry... guess that last meal must have helped," Shamal briefly smiles at her ursine companion. "Anyway, we should get moving, pleasant as it is, here. I take it the dragon hasn't returned, yet?"
[20:33] <Demedais> "No, but I've been gone for two days so it's possible it's returned. I hope not, though." Demedais turns to Uatu. "Thank you... thanks, friend Uatu."
[20:34] <Kotono> Uatu continues to drift away, fading into the mists. As he does, behidn you a path of white, sharp steps appear, leading upward.
[20:35] * Demedais lowers his head in thought. "I think we get to walk and ride back." he comments to Shamal drily after a second.
[20:35] * Shamal winces at how sharp those steps look, glancing down at her own bare feet, then looking over to the equally bereft Mr Bear. "Careful, careful..." she murmurs, gesturing the bear to follow as she gingerly advances.
[20:36] <Kotono> As they progress, despite teh sharpness of the steps, Shamal and the bear are both able to walk about safely. Always just missing anything dangerous, soon enough out by the guardian again. As they leave, the feeling of opening passes, a new eye closing again.
[20:37] * Demedais inhales sharply, nodding to the guardian as they pass.
[20:38] <Shamal> "It's something of a relief, to be honest," Shamal admits, guessing at the reason for Demedais' reaction. "The longer you stay like that the more tempting it gets."
[20:39] <Demedais> "Uatu is breaking apart the distance between our realm and the realm of the gods." Demedais says simply as he continues walking.
[20:41] <Shamal> "It seems with every day the world returns more to how it was before the Gods withdrew... and more and more of them are reasserting their interest in events, here," Shamal nods thoughtfully. "Tell me, Demedais, how familiar are you with Cyric?"
[20:43] * Demedais bows his head in thought again. "Mmmmmm..."
[20:44] <Kotono> OOC - KnowledgE: Religion if you want info there.
[20:45] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7
[20:45] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Demedais rolled :1,0 1d20+7 --> 1,0[ 1d20=12 ]12,0{19}
[20:47] <Demedais> "Just the basics of what they taught me in the temple." Demedais confessed. "Prince of Lies, Asshole Supreme, all that.
[20:49] <Shamal> "I met a servant of his on the Astral Plane - one who was very well informed on current events involving Balmuria and the Crimson Guard," the blonde explains, occassionally prodding the bear to keep up with them and avoid distraction, "He wanted me to go with him to Cyric's domain and swear my loyalty to him."
[20:52] * Demedais turns and eyes Shamal for a second, before continuing to walk. "And let me guess, he was attacking the bear."
[20:54] <Shamal> "Actually he enchanted it to attack me," Shamal replies, frowning. "That was even before he spelled out his offer, trying to tempt me with all the power and prestige I'd get as a servant of the Prince of Lies." She shakes her head a bit, "Really, with a name like that, how can he expect anyone to take his deals seriously?"
[20:56] * Demedais nods. "Indeed. It creates great problems in that regard. I still can't believe it, tho."
[20:59] <Shamal> "As he told me, Helm is not the only God to have an interest in these events," Shamal shrugs. "What concerns me most was what he said about assisting others if I refused his offer..." she then looks thoughtful, "On the other hand, he also said he was only able to contact me because I was on the Astral, which implies an inability to have influence on the Prime, so it may have been an empty threat."
[21:01] <Demedais> "Huh? Oh, yeah. It makes sense that Helm isn't the only one involved on this plane - after all, the God King Dude's trying to reawaken. Why wouldn't they move to bring him down?" Demedais nods, before turning to Shamal. "How do you do it?"
[21:01] <Shamal> "Do what?" the theurge asks, cocking her head curiously.
[21:04] <Demedais> "Always find an animal to rescue!" Demedais throws his hands up in the air. "First the tiger, then this bear... what next, a dire celestial weasel?"
[21:06] <Shamal> "If I saw one that needed rescuing," Shamal replies, perfectly straight-faced. "Although technically, a dire celestial weasel would be a magical beast, not an animal. It's an important distinction."
[21:07] <Demedais> "Whatever." Demedais says as he turns back, continuing to walk. "You know what I mean, I think."
[21:09] <Shamal> "Maybe it's just Mielikki's hand guiding me to where I'm needed?" Shamal rationalises. "Even if she's never broadcast herself in the way Helm and Cyric have, I feel her presence with me, all the same."
[21:10] <Demedais> "Quite possible. Just as Helm guides me..." Demedais lets the rest of the sentence trail off as he thinks.

<MISSING LOGS circa 23-06-2007>

[20:52] <Demedais> <Demedais> roll 1d20
[20:52] <Demedais> * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20 and gets 14." [1d20=14]
[20:52] <Demedais> <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 bees get group initiative!
[20:52] <Demedais> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 bees get group initiative! and gets 7." [1d20=4]
[20:52] <Demedais> * Kotono changes topic to 'Remember to make Puk'lor, Gourash, and Keylin roll will saves against searing agony when they go into the shop | Shamal>Seira>Deme>BEES'
[20:52] <Demedais> <Kotono> roll 1d20-5
[20:52] <Demedais> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20-5 and gets 6." [1d20=11]
[20:53] <Kotono> The buzzing from below begins, a loud sound that begins to spread! Meanwhile, the wounded Seira clings to the metal platform she is on, invisible and hidden. Twenty five feet away, two statues continue to look around, rotating evenly! OOC - Shamal is up.
[20:54] * Shamal casts another fiery spell, wreathing one of her hands in flames while her orb continues to damage the statue!
[20:54] <Shamal> roll 2d6
[20:54] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 2d6 and gets 10."12 [2d6=5, 5]
[20:56] <Kotono> This statue shivers, form bulging with the fiery pressure before it bursts into flames! The green statue explodes, shards of it landing and raining down! A few even land close to Seira, clattering on the metal flooring! OOC - Seira.
[20:58] * Seira heals up quietly, as she positions herself and her bow.
[20:58] <Seira> roll 2d8+7
[20:58] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 2d8+7 and gets 17."12 [2d8=7, 3]
[21:00] <Kotono> Seira's wounds mend as the buzzing becomse even louder from below! OOC - Demedais.
[21:01] * Demedais grunts in irritation. "You sure these things are undead, Seira?" he bellows as he readies himself to try and turn the bees. Let the mages destroy them from a distance rather than risking their stings...
[21:01] * Seira doesn't respond to avoid giving away her position!
[21:02] <Kotono> Demedais can see four rising up for the darkness - three towards the catwalk and a fourth towards the third platform, near the remaining statue. OOC - You can act on them nowif you want, since they're flying up.
[21:03] * Demedais eyes them to quickly confirm they are undead before letting loose a blast of holy energy!
[21:04] <Kotono> They are gray, lacking any yellow of normal sized bees. They have rotting, crumbling flesh, barely clinging to their body. The stingers are loose, eyes half broken. They fly up with a dreadful persistance, even as nature continues it's slow attempt to reduce them into eternal nothingness.
[21:05] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah, there's a good chance they're undead!
[21:05] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3
[21:05] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 and gets 10."12 [1d20=7]
[21:05] <Demedais> OOC: If HD 3 or under, I can turn. >_<
[21:09] <Kotono> The bees seem to momentarily slow, almost stopped by Demedais' call! But it's not yet enough, not potent enough! They shrug it off and keep racing on, coming up! So they float there, three in front of the heroes and a fourth by the third platform! Meanwhile, the remaining statue spins around, eye searching. It passes over the fourth platform, not stopping on Seira's invisible body! As it sweeps back around, it focuses on the sole bee and...
[21:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[21:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 6."12 [1d20=2]
[21:09] <Kotono> A shot fires, but whizzes just past the bee! OOC - Shamal is up.
[21:09] <Shamal> OOC: how far is the remaining statue from the one I killed?
[21:10] <Kotono> OOC: 15 ft. Five foot gaps between the rightmost platform and the leftmost.
[21:11] <Shamal> With an idle gesture using her free hand, Shamal sends the flaming orb leaping to the remaining statue, while she fires off a blast of fire at the nearest bee!
[21:11] <Shamal> roll 2d6 flaming sphere
[21:11] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 2d6 flaming sphere and gets 8."12 [2d6=4, 4]
[21:11] <Shamal> roll 1d20+6 ranged touch attack on bee
[21:11] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+6 ranged touch attack on bee and gets 26."12 [1d20=20]
[21:11] <Shamal> roll 1d20+6 ranged touch attack on bee crit check
[21:11] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+6 ranged touch attack on bee crit check and gets 15."12 [1d20=9]
[21:11] <Shamal> OOC: wait, undead. Blah
[21:12] <Shamal> roll 1d6+5 fiery wrath
[21:12] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d6+5 fiery wrath and gets 9."12 [1d6=4]
[21:13] <Kotono> The statue is scorched,  frame damaged! The bee is alsob urnt, the smell of cooking, rotten meat pugnently sweet! Chunks of bee flesh fall off like tender meat from the chicken bone, burning away even as it continues it's undeath! OOC - Seira.
[21:13] <Seira> Her eyes widening as the statue fires on its own allies, Seira abandons her earlier plan and resumes her run. As she does so, her outline blurs around the edges, although visible only to her own eyes.
[21:13] <Kotono> OOC - How far can you move in a round?
[21:14] <Seira> OOC: 60ft
[21:14] <Kotono> OOC - You can reach the sixth platform, yeah.
[21:15] <Kotono> Seira runs ahead, hidden from view! She lands on the fifth platform and hardly stops, racing to the sixth! When she lands there, two statues appear as per the third platform's surroundings, but they look around, starting to circle and not firing on Seira! OOC - Deme.
[21:16] * Demedais gathers holy energy up again as he moves to better hide Shamal from the undead buzzers!
[21:16] <Demedais> roll 1d20+5
[21:16] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+5 and gets 11."12 [1d20=6]
[21:17] <Kotono> Despite all of Demedais' energy, the bees are only frightened, not repelled! The turning is again resisted, as the bees swoop in! The buzzing is growing louder, as two of the three bees zoom in on Demedais, stingers pointing out!
[21:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 28."12 [1d20=18]
[21:18] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 23."12 [1d20=13]
[21:18] <Kotono> OCO - AC?
[21:18] <Demedais> OOC: 24.
[21:18] <Kotono> roll 1d4+4 and make a fort save, Deme.
[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+4 and make a fort save, Deme. and gets 8."12 [1d4=4]
[21:18] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 yay my good save!
[21:18] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+10 yay my good save! and gets 13."12 [1d20=3]
[21:19] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[21:19] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 3."12 [1d4=3]
[21:21] <Kotono> Demedais can only watch in horror as his floating shield and armor come to naught! While the second bee buzzes by safely, the first as a suicidal bead on him! He buries his stinger into the side of the paladin, leaving it there! It's loose form leaks rusty red fluid from where it's stinger was, body almost falling apart as it limply buzzes about! But Demedais feels his body slowing, uncoordinated! OOC - 3d ex damage.
[21:23] <Kotono> The third bee buzzes up, circling above Shamal, before diving at her in a suicidal plunge! But it's stinger is not out, instead it's entire body attempts to bull rush Shamal to teh side, off the catwalk!
[21:23] <Kotono> OOC - Shamal, you can AoO it if you wish.
[21:23] <Shamal> roll 1d20+3 melee touch attack
[21:23] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+3 melee touch attack and gets 5."12 [1d20=2]
[21:24] <Kotono> Shamal cannot complete the deal, the fiery touch missing as it barrels on in! OOC - Opposed STR checks.
[21:25] <Shamal> roll 1d20 laf
[21:25] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20 laf and gets 2."12 [1d20=2]
[21:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[21:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 21."12 [1d20=15]
[21:25] <Kotono> Shamal is sent flying, the bee barreling right into her! As this happens, Demedais has a chance to swipe at it if he wishes!
[21:26] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 (3 PowStrike)
[21:26] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 (3 PowStrike) and gets 21."12 [1d20=13]
[21:27] <Kotono> OOC - Roll a 1d100. 1-25 Shamal is targetted instead.
[21:27] <Demedais> roll 1d100
[21:27] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 and gets 85."12 [1d100=85]
[21:27] <Kotono> OOC - Damage.
[21:28] <Demedais> roll 2d6+12
[21:28] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d6+12 and gets 18."12 [2d6=4, 2]
[21:29] <Kotono> The bee's body is nearly cut in half, only hanging together by a few stands! Despite this the undeath hangs on, sending Shamal flying over the edge of the catwalk! She plummets down inan instant, soon having a forcible contact with a brittle, giving substance!
[21:29] <Kotono> roll 3d6
[21:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 3d6 and gets 11."12 [3d6=2, 4, 5]
[21:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20
[21:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20 and gets 3."12 [1d20=3]
[21:30] * Shamal shrieks as she falls, not liking this at all!
[21:30] <Kotono> Slam! Shamal feels the impact rattle her bones, as her vision clears post pain! She lies on a half broken segment of a giant beehive's top! Here, from several holes, she sees a few large undead bees coming up, starting to turn towards her!
[21:31] <Kotono> Meanwhile, above,t he last bee looks in Seira's general direction, but doesn't move! in it's confusion, the remaining statue continues to turn, this time targetting the bee again!
[21:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[21:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 15."12 [1d20=11]
[21:32] <Kotono> roll 4d6
[21:32] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d6 and gets 11."12 [4d6=3, 1, 4, 3]
[21:33] <Kotono> This time the bee is lanced with a searing beam of light, part of it's body bored away! It buzzes erratically as the battle rages! OOC - Shamal.
[21:33] <Shamal> OOC: Any bees within 30ft of my flaming sphere?
[21:33] <Shamal> OOC: Also, any bees aligned such that I could hit more than 1 with a lightning bolt?
[21:34] <Kotono> OOC" Way above? The one the statue zapped. And yes, two of the emerging bees could be 'bolted.
[21:35] * Shamal directs her flaming sphere to leap at the nearest bee, since the statue is ostensibly helping them at the moment. Meanwhile she takes her wand of lightning bolts from its holster and looses off a barrage of electrical fury at two of the bees coming to join the party!
[21:35] <Shamal> roll 2d6 fire DC 17 reflex negates
[21:35] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 2d6 fire DC 17 reflex negates and gets 6."12 [2d6=2, 4]
[21:36] <Shamal> roll 5d6 lightning DC 14 reflex halves
[21:36] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 5d6 lightning DC 14 reflex halves and gets 15."12 [5d6=5, 2, 3, 3, 2]
[21:38] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[21:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 8."12 [1d20=1]
[21:38] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7 lighting DCs
[21:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 lighting DCs and gets 10."12 [1d20=3]
[21:38] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7 lighting DCs
[21:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 lighting DCs and gets 25."12 [1d20=18]
[21:40] <Kotono> As the bee above is slammed with a flaming sphere and further burnt, almost falling apart, Shamal uses her wand of lighting! She feels the energy in it ever so slightlybuckle, almost making it crack! But not quite, as a bolt of pure fury sears thet wo bees! It's not enough to kill either, but two of the four coming out to play this round are badly zapped up! OOC - Seira.
[21:40] <Seira> The plan certainly did not survive contact with the enemy, again, Seira muses. She takes out her length of rope, tying the end in a knot and tossing it to herself below the platform. Catching it nimbly, she ties it securely, and drops the rest down, the end making a loud thumping sound against the ground which is certain to alert Shamal and Demedais to her actions.
[21:41] * Shamal is distracted!
[21:41] <Kotono> Seira does so, unmolested and alone as she offers up a lifeline to Shamal! MEanwhile, she can see four bees below, two just zapped by a lighting bolt but two others flying upward, beginning the ascent up! OOC - Demedais.
[21:42] <Demedais> "By Helm... Shamal, you okay?!?" Demedais sweeps at the bees around him, starting with the injured one in an attempt to down them before the new arrivals get up here!
[21:43] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 (3 PA, trying for Cleave maybe?!?)
[21:43] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 (3 PA, trying for Cleave maybe?!?) and gets 11."12 [1d20=3]
[21:43] <Kotono> OOC - Attack 1 whiffed.
[21:43] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3 (still trying for a Cleave hit, 3 PA)
[21:43] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 (still trying for a Cleave hit, 3 PA) and gets 11."12 [1d20=8]
[21:43] <Shamal> "So far," the blonde calls back. "But there's a lot more of these undead vermin!"
[21:44] <Demedais> "Oh, goody." Demedais grumbles. "I'm thrilled."
[21:44] <Kotono> Demedais swipes twice, but is unable to score a direct hit! Perhaps his slowed reflexes are to blame, as a bee's stinger still juts out of his side! Meanwhile, the bees here act! The one that bull rushed Shamal off charges Demedais, stinger first!
[21:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[21:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 20."12 [1d20=10]
[21:45] <Kotono> But this effort is deflectd by the Fifth Resort, firmly interposing itself as a solid barrier of defense! The stingerless bee just floats there a moment, not acting! The third bee, having missed once, attempts to spear Demedais again!
[21:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[21:45] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 24."12 [1d20=14]
[21:45] <Kotono> roll 1d4+4
[21:45] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+4 and gets 7."12 [1d4=3]
[21:46] <Kotono> OOC - Fort save.
[21:46] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 Stupid, STUPID BOT!
[21:46] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+10 Stupid, STUPID BOT! and gets 26."12 [1d20=16]
[21:47] <Kotono> Demedais gets a stinger stuck in his knee, the bee now without it's main form of offense! IT seems to sag, body nearly collapsing without it! The last bee up here frantically flies around and up, zapped at again as it cannot find prey!
[21:47] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[21:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 22."12 [1d20=18]
[21:47] <Kotono> roll 4d6
[21:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d6 and gets 18."12 [4d6=4, 6, 5, 3]
[21:47] <Kotono> This beam slams into it's main body, causing it to fall apart into fiery giblets! As it rains down well in front of Shamal below, two of the bees charge her!
[21:47] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[21:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 and gets 22."12 [1d20=10]
[21:47] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[21:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 and gets 17."12 [1d20=5]
[21:48] <Kotono> OOC - AC?
[21:48] <Shamal> OOC: 17
[21:48] <Kotono> roll 2d4+8 and two fort saves
[21:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d4+8 and two fort saves and gets 14."12 [2d4=4, 2]
[21:49] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7 #1
[21:49] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+7 #1 and gets 10."12 [1d20=3]
[21:49] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7 #2
[21:49] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+7 #2 and gets 19."12 [1d20=12]
[21:50] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[21:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 4."12 [1d4=4]
[21:51] <Shamal> "Ahhh!" Shamal cries out as a pair of stingers embed themselves into her, muscles seizing up as the poison quickly takes effect.
[21:51] <Kotono> The twin bees perforate Shamal with two stingers into her stomach and arm! They stay in there, making her feel faint from blood loss and poison! They float in front of her after, lookign worse for wear!
[21:51] <Kotono> At last, the final two fly up, between the first and second platform, looking about! OOC - Shamal.
[21:52] <Shamal> OOC: What are my surroundings? A beehive floor and a bunch of 5x5ft vertical towers?
[21:53] <Shamal> OOC: Also, any targets within 30ft of the flaming sphere?
[21:53] <Kotono> Shamal stands weakly atop a beehive, relatively flat! There are lots of large holes for the bees to come out of, gray, waxy material lining the edges. The buzzing is louder here, and can be heard from below. OOC - No, there isn't.
[21:53] <Kotono> OOC - Unless you wanna burn the statue again.
[21:54] <Seira> OOC: Burn it!
[21:54] * Shamal turns and weakly runs from the bees assailing her, not even bothering to pull the stingers out now that it's too late. With no other valid targets, she sends her flaming orb back towards the statue, since she really doesn't want to be shot when she climbs back up there.
[21:55] <Shamal> roll 2d6
[21:55] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 2d6 and gets 7."12 [2d6=4, 3]
[21:57] <Kotono> The statue burstsinto green burning shards, overwhelmed by Shamal's sphere! OOC - Doing anything yourself?
[21:57] <Shamal> OOC: running away from the bees, moving behind any cover I can get so they don't have a straight line at me.
[21:57] <Kotono> OOC: The only real cover would be by going into one of the beehive holes.
[21:58] <Shamal> OOC: What about the platforms? Are they floating in the air?
[21:58] <Kotono> OOC: They're sixty feet up, remember. They are, serenly floating there, metal platforms.
[21:58] <Shamal> OOC: Then I'm running to the nearest wall that doesn't get me an AoO for the movement
[21:59] <Kotono> OOC - That'll be the one at the end of the catwalk you came from.
[21:59] <Kotono> Shamal races to the back wall, waxen covered but away from the bees! OOC - Seira.
[21:59] * Seira takes hold of the rope firmly with her wrist, wrapping her legs around the length of rope and sliding down it, even as she summons the arcane powers of magical hailstones to pound the pair of statues whose company she had just left!
[22:00] <Kotono> OOC - They get no save, so do damage.
[22:00] <Seira> roll 3d6 bludgeoning
[22:00] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 3d6 bludgeoning and gets 10."12 [3d6=2, 5, 3]
[22:01] <Seira> roll 2d6 cold
[22:01] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 2d6 cold and gets 3."12 [2d6=1, 2]
[22:01] <Kotono> The two statues are badly dented up, broken up and coated with ice! It's not quite enough to put them down, but they're clearly torn up bad! As hailstones pelt them, Seira slies a bit down the rope! OOC - Deme.
[22:02] * Demedais growls as he continues attempting to hit the bees, attention diverted from Shamal and Seira for the moment!
[22:02] <Kotono> OOC - Which bee are you swinging at?
[22:02] <Demedais> OOC: Injured one.
[22:02] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 (3 PA)
[22:02] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 (3 PA) and gets 16."12 [1d20=8]
[22:03] <Kotono> OOC: First and third are, second is stingerless. Whiff.
[22:03] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3 (3 PA you bloody lame bot)
[22:03] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 (3 PA you bloody lame bot) and gets 10."12 [1d20=7]
[22:03] <Seira> "Shamal, I'll be there in a flash!" Seira calls down towards the blonde, bow in hand.
[22:04] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 shield bash injured bee
[22:04] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 shield bash injured bee and gets 12."12 [1d20=1]
[22:04] <Shamal> "They just keep coming, we need to retreat!" the wounded theurge calls back raggedly.
[22:04] <Seira> "There's a handy rope right here!"
[22:05] <Kotono> Despite this the bees are unhurt, weaving along between Deme's best efforts! As this happens, the one left by Deme with a stinger still attached lunges at him!
[22:05] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[22:05] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 25."12 [1d20=15]
[22:05] <Kotono> roll 1d4+4 adn a fort save, Hatbot is trying to kill you.
[22:05] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+4 adn a fort save, Hatbot is trying to kill you. and gets 7."12 [1d4=3]
[22:05] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 geez, I noticed
[22:05] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+10 geez, I noticed and gets 28."12 [1d20=18]
[22:06] <Kotono> This gets a third stinger in Demedais, right in his lower back! He resists the poison as his vision swims, while meanwhile one of the two destingered bees by him regains enough awareness to attempt a crumbling bullrush at him!
[22:07] <Kotono> OOC - AoO it if you wish.
[22:07] <Demedais> roll 1d20+9 (2 PA not like it matters the stupid git)
[22:07] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+9 (2 PA not like it matters the stupid git) and gets 21."12 [1d20=12]
[22:07] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[22:07] <Demedais> OOC: Please hold, I've gone into catatonic shock.
[22:07] <Kotono> OOC: Sure.
[22:07] <Demedais> roll 2d6+10
[22:07] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d6+10 and gets 13."12 [2d6=1, 2]
[22:09] <Kotono> With that slash, Demedais finds no resistance! To the lightest blow it crumbles apart, raining down and around Demedais! There is no bullrushing off the sides, only dead bee all around the catwalk! Meanwhile, the two below that stung Shamal aren't moving yet, just kind of floating there! The two that rose up lock onto the beleaugered paladin, flying in, one charging him while the other turns and starts to fly towards the sixth platform!
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 and gets 31."12 [1d20=19]
[22:09] <Kotono> roll 1d4+4 and another fort save and Hatbot kililng.
[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+4 and another fort save and Hatbot kililng. and gets 5."12 [1d4=1]
[22:09] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 die you goddamn bot
[22:09] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+10 die you goddamn bot and gets 29."12 [1d20=19]
[22:10] <Kotono> Demedais gets yet another undead stinger, this time right in his chest! It's a shallow wound, but nonetheless another direct injury onto his person! Meanwhile, the two statues turn as the last bee approaches! AS Shamal prepares again, she notes she can feel a buzzing vibration at her feet.
[22:10] <Kotono> OOC - Shamal.
[22:10] <Shamal> OOC: any targets within 30ft of the sphere?
[22:11] <Kotono> OOC - The bee that flew past towards the 6th platform could be.
[22:11] <Shamal> "More coming from below!" Shamal warns, casting Spiderclimb so that she has a realistic chance of retreating while she sends her flaming orb flying after the nearest bee.
[22:12] <Shamal> roll 2d6 DC 16 reflex negates
[22:12] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 2d6 DC 16 reflex negates and gets 11."12 [2d6=5, 6]
[22:12] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[22:12] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 23."12 [1d20=16]
[22:13] <Kotono> This bee is agile and fast, avoiding the orb altogether as Shamal enchants her body with the climbing ability of a spider! OOC - Seira.
[22:14] <Seira> Fixing her position with her feet alone, Seira draws a pair of arrows one after the other, shooting them at the bees which had been attacking Shamal!
[22:16] <Seira> roll 1d20+3
[22:16] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+3 and gets 4."12 [1d20=1]
[22:16] <Seira> roll 1d20+3
[22:16] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+3 and gets 13."12 [1d20=10]
[22:17] <Kotono> Both arrows fly! The first is just too loose, falling well short! The second is better aimed, whizzing by the stingerless bees adn landing in the edge of a hole into the bee's nest! OOC - Deme.
[22:17] * Demedais inhales sharply, eyeing the swarm of bees around him. "I -hate- the undead and I -hate- giant bees. In the name of Helm, I send you all back to the abyss you crawled out of! Die, die, die, die, die, DIE!!" With that, he begins slashing away at the nearest gigabee!
[22:17] <Demedais> roll 1d20+8 3 PA die you damn bees
[22:17] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+8 3 PA die you damn bees and gets 11."12 [1d20=3]
[22:17] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3 stupid, stupid bees! (3 PA)
[22:17] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 stupid, stupid bees! (3 PA) and gets 19."12 [1d20=16]
[22:18] <Kotono> OOC - Second...hit?!?!
[22:18] <Kotono> OOC - This will be fatal, so you can cleave.
[22:18] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3 cleave hit into next bee
[22:18] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+3 cleave hit into next bee and gets 22."12 [1d20=19]
[22:18] <Kotono> OOC - Hit. Also fatal.
[22:19] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 shield of bee slaying
[22:19] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 shield of bee slaying and gets 17."12 [1d20=6]
[22:19] <Kotono> OOC - That can hit the last. Roll damage.
[22:19] <Demedais> roll 1d10+4
[22:19] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d10+4 and gets 5."12 [1d10=1]
[22:20] <Kotono> The two stingerless bees fall apart like loose scraps of cloth to the sword of Demedais, a wide sweep eliminating two fo the three pests that surround him! They fall apart, empty stingersockets still splurting bits of rusty red fluid! Meanwhile, the Fifth Resort bashes the last remaining bee, it's stingerless body collapsing to the strain as well!
[22:20] * Demedais exhales angrily. "Stupid. Bloody. Bees."
[22:21] <Kotono> Of the two bees near Shamal, one charges her in a basic, slopppy body tackle! The other flutters towards a bee hole, heading in!
[22:21] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10 attacking Shamal crudely.
[22:21] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 attacking Shamal crudely. and gets 20."12 [1d20=10]
[22:21] <Kotono> roll 1d3
[22:21] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d3 and gets 3."12 [1d3=3]
[22:23] <Kotono> While it's attack is weak, it's body almost falling apart, it manages a rough tacklecheck of the wounded druid! Meanwhile, as the statues above still turn in damaged slowness, the buzzing frombelow gets even louder! OOC - Shamal.
[22:24] <Shamal> OOC: Are there any exits I can reach with 120ft of movement? I can climb up walls at my full movement thanks to Spiderclimb.
[22:26] <Kotono> OOC - You could climb up and get back to the catwalk with a bit of clinging to the bottom of it, sure.
[22:26] <Shamal> OOC: without provoking an AoO from the one attacking me?
[22:27] <Kotono> OOC: It could bodytackle AoO you.
[22:27] <Shamal> OOC: no exit on the other side of the room I could get to without provoking an AoO?
[22:28] <Kotono> OOC - You'd have to go all the way to the other side. That's 250 feet.
[22:28] <Kotono> OOC - There isa nother door on that side, yes.
[22:28] <Shamal> Taking the risk that she might be attacked again, Shamal dodges around the bee assailing her and sprints towards the wall below Demedais' position, rapidly ascending it in defiance of gravity!
[22:29] <Kotono> As she does, the bee weakly moves to try and tackle her again!
[22:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[22:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 19."12 [1d20=9]
[22:29] <Kotono> OOC - AC?
[22:29] <Shamal> OOC: 14
[22:29] <Kotono> roll 1d3
[22:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d3 and gets 2."12 [1d3=2]
[22:29] <Kotono> It manages to slam her leg again, a bruise as Shamal scurries up! She gets back atop the catwalk, removed from the hellish hive below at last! OOC - Seira.
[22:31] * Seira decides to return to the platform and deal with the statues, now that Shamal is safely back amongst them!
[22:31] <Seira> roll 1d20+9
[22:31] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+9 and gets 18."12 [1d20=9]
[22:31] <Seira> roll 1d20+9
[22:31] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+9 and gets 17."12 [1d20=8]
[22:32] <Seira> roll 1d8+1
[22:32] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d8+1 and gets 3."12 [1d8=2]
[22:32] <Seira> roll 1d8+1
[22:32] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d8+1 and gets 6."12 [1d8=5]
[22:33] <Kotono> Seira's aim is good, slamming both statues! It's enough in each case, the right side statue breaking apart to the pair of arrows! It shatteres, only the one on the left still functioning! OOC - Deme.
[22:35] * Demedais spins sharply, only to see the injured Shamal! "Gah, there you are!" Demedais says, rushing over and touching her head, imbuing healing into her. "And you got a worse thrashing than I did, it seems..."
[22:36] <Shamal> "I've had better days," Shamal nods weakly, yanking out the two stingers penetrating her as she's healed.
[22:36] * Seira gives Shamal and Demedais a brief wave.
[22:36] <Kotono> Shamal's injuries close up, the healing patching up her frame! Meanwhile, the other injuried be limply flies up towards Shamal, but doesn't quite reach up this round! Meanwhile, three more bees come up from the hive, fresh and buzzing! As this happens, the last statue sees Seira, firing a bolt at her!
[22:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[22:36] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 12."12 [1d20=8]
[22:36] <Kotono> OOC - AC, Seira? Blur after that if it matters.
[22:37] <Seira> OOC: For once, a miss
[22:37] <Kotono> OOC - Strike.
[22:38] <Kotono> The last bee sees Seira, and taking it's chance, lunges at her stinger first!
[22:38] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[22:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 15."12 [1d20=5]
[22:38] <Kotono> OOC - AC?
[22:39] <Seira> OOC: Let's go with blur, here
[22:39] <Kotono> roll 1d100 1-20 miss
[22:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 1-20 miss and gets 84."12 [1d100=84]
[22:40] <Kotono> roll 1d4+4 and a fort save.
[22:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+4 and a fort save. and gets 5."12 [1d4=1]
[22:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+6
[22:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+6 and gets 8."12 [1d20=2]
[22:41] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[22:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 4."12 [1d4=4]
[22:42] <Kotono> OOC - 4 dex damage.
[22:43] <Kotono> This bee zooms in, slamming it's stinger into Seira's ribs! As it does, the remaining statue turns, finding two targets...
[22:43] <Kotono> OOC: 1 Seira 2 Bee
[22:43] <Kotono> roll 1d2
[22:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d2 and gets 2."12 [1d2=2]
[22:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[22:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 19."12 [1d20=15]
[22:43] <Kotono> roll 4d6
[22:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d6 and gets 19."12 [4d6=6, 5, 5, 3]
[22:44] <Kotono> As it falls back, stinger removed, the statue chooses the bee and fires! The flaming beam turns the bee into flaming wreckage, raining back down on it's hive of origin! OOC - Shamal.
[22:47] <Shamal> "Seira, get over here!" Shamal calls, sacrificing her Sandblast spell to summon an eagle to attack the bees below and hopefully distract them long enough for them to retreat. With a loud screech, the bird of prey dives talons first at the nearest bee!
[22:47] <Shamal> roll 1d20+5
[22:47] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+5 and gets 19."12 [1d20=14]
[22:48] <Kotono> OOC - One of the three fresh bees or the remaining beaten up one.
[22:48] <Shamal> OOC: Are they all below the level of the statue?
[22:48] <Kotono> OOC - Yes. Well below. They just came out.
[22:49] <Shamal> OOC: fresh one
[22:49] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[22:49] <Shamal> roll 2d4+4
[22:49] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 2d4+4 and gets 8."12 [2d4=1, 3]
[22:50] <Kotono> The eagle dives down, tearing into one of the emerging eagles! It's a fairly effective attack, managing to do some damage! OOC - Seira.
[22:50] * Seira takes aim at the remaining, beaten up statue, firing a single arrow at it, before taking off in a run towards the others.
[22:51] <Seira> roll 1d20+8
[22:51] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+8 and gets 11."12 [1d20=3]
[22:51] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[22:51] <Seira> roll 1d8+1
[22:51] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d8+1 and gets 2."12 [1d8=1]
[22:52] <Kotono> With that shot, Seira does a little more damage to the statue as she leaps back to the fifth and then fourth platform! OOC - Deme.
[22:53] <Seira> OOC: Turning!
[22:53] <Demedais> OOC: I need line of effect... do I have that toward the bees down there?
[22:54] <Kotono> OOC: Yes, if you stand at the edge and look down.
[22:54] <Shamal> OOC: ready an action if they fly up!
[22:54] <Demedais> OOC: Doing this the Shamal way.
[22:54] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[22:55] * Demedais pulls out his holy symbol again and watches for the new arrivals...
[22:55] <Kotono> Sure enough, the bees begin to fly up! The three are making good time, as the last, stingerless bee continues it's pursuit of Shamal, fianlly coming up and attempting to body check her! OOC - You can act now if you wish, Deme-cahn.
[22:56] * Demedais nods grimly and tries to turn the newest wave of undead!
[22:56] <Demedais> roll 1d20+5 come on whorebot
[22:56] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+5 come on whorebot and gets 6."12 [1d20=1]
[22:56] <Shamal> OOC: Eagle gets an AoO if any flies away from it!
[22:57] <Kotono> OOC - Go for it, eagle.
[22:57] <Shamal> roll 1d20+3
[22:57] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+3 and gets 18."12 [1d20=15]
[22:57] <Kotono> OOC - Hit
[22:57] <Shamal> roll 1d4+2
[22:57] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d4+2 and gets 6."12 [1d4=4]
[22:58] <Kotono> As the bees fly up, Demedais cannot even phase them! But the eagle can, scoring another hit on the bee it attacks! It chooses to then double back, lunging at it as the other two come up! They float there, ready as Shamal is bodytackled!
[22:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10 stinger attack on eagle
[22:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 stinger attack on eagle and gets 25."12 [1d20=15]
[22:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10 Shamal body tackle
[22:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 Shamal body tackle and gets 27."12 [1d20=17]
[22:59] <Kotono> roll 1d4+4 and eagle gets to make a fort save
[22:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+4 and eagle gets to make a fort save and gets 5."12 [1d4=1]
[22:59] <Kotono> roll 1d3
[22:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d3 and gets 3."12 [1d3=3]
[22:59] <Shamal> roll 1d20+5 eagle fort
[22:59] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+5 eagle fort and gets 24."12 [1d20=19]
[23:00] <Kotono> The eagle resists the poison, but is yet badly wounded by the stinger! OOC - Shamal.
[23:03] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 (1 PA) AoO on botherbee
[23:03] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+10 (1 PA) AoO on botherbee and gets 30."12 [1d20=20]
[23:03] <Kotono> OOC - Hit of mocking.
[23:04] <Demedais> OOC: Roll damage or does it just die due to being stingerless?
[23:04] <Kotono> OOC - Latter.
[23:04] <Demedais> OOC: PUNK.
[23:04] <Kotono> Being stingerless and weak, the massive blow from the paladin rips it a new one and then a second, a third and more! It falls apart, obliterated! OO C- Shamal.
[23:05] <Shamal> Giving Demedais an appreciative smile, Shamal snaps her fingers and gestures at the two nearby bees, causing an arc of electricity to whirl outwards and encircle both of them!
[23:06] <Shamal> roll 3d6 DC 16 reflex half
[23:06] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 3d6 DC 16 reflex half and gets 11."12 [3d6=3, 3, 5]
[23:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[23:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 22."12 [1d20=15]
[23:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 25."12 [1d20=18]
[23:07] <Kotono> The electricity scores a hit, dealing solid damage to the bees! It's not enough to stop themt, hough! OOC - Seira.
[23:08] <Seira> That statue will die! Over and over again! The arrows, they will keep on coming! But first, the bees molesting Shamal and Demedais must go to their unholy maker.
[23:08] <Seira> roll 1d20+6
[23:08] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+6 and gets 11."12 [1d20=5]
[23:08] <Seira> roll 1d20+6
[23:08] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+6 and gets 21."12 [1d20=15]
[23:08] <Seira> roll 1d8+1
[23:08] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d8+1 and gets 4."12 [1d8=3]
[23:09] <Kotono> The bee fired at it stricken by a well placed arrow from behind, staggering it in air! Still not a kill, but it's good and hurt! OOC - Deme.
[23:11] * Demedais stands near Shamal and begins to try and turn the bees again, not liking the position he'd have to be in to slash them.
[23:11] <Demedais> roll 1d20+5
[23:11] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+5 and gets 13."12 [1d20=8]
[23:11] <Kotono> OOC +1 HD?
[23:11] <Demedais> OOC: Are the bees 4 HD?
[23:11] <Demedais> OOC: Yep.
[23:11] <Kotono> OOC: Yes.
[23:12] <Kotono> OOC: Roll the number of turned undead.
[23:13] <Demedais> roll 2d6+6 number of hit dice of undead I can turn~
[23:13] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d6+6 number of hit dice of undead I can turn~ and gets 14."12 [2d6=3, 5]
[23:13] <Kotono> The two bees above fly straight back down the platforms in godly terror of the paladin! So they fly back, fleeing for dear life and without any coordination or plan!
[23:14] <Kotono> OOC - Shamal.
[23:14] <Demedais> "Stupid, stupid bees." Demedais grumbles.
[23:15] <Shamal> Shamal's eagle harasses the bees, making another diving attack on the most wounded one as it passes, while Shamal herself reaches into her haversack for some alchemist's fire and tosses it down - hives are flammable, right?
[23:15] <Shamal> roll 1d20+5 eagle
[23:15] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+5 eagle and gets 6."12 [1d20=1]
[23:16] <Kotono> The eagle attempts to dive at a bee, but fails completely! Meanwhile, amid total failure, Shamal drops a vial of alchemist's fire! It plumments down, breaking on top of the hive...
[23:17] <Kotono> Flames break out, a small patch of the beehive burning thanks to Shamal's drop! It's starting to sizzle, the flames beginning! OOC - Seira.
[23:17] * Seira cheerfully takes aim at the fleeing bees.
[23:17] <Seira> roll 1d20+7
[23:17] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+7 and gets 11."12 [1d20=4]
[23:17] <Seira> roll 1d20+7
[23:17] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+7 and gets 8."12 [1d20=1]
[23:19] <Kotono> Seira aims as they fly by, but both arrows are timed too late, missing! They fly by, coming in range of the last, damaged statue! OOC - Deme.
[23:21] * Demedais grumbles as his eyes follow the retreating bees. "So... ah, what now?" he shrugs, preparing a Lesser Restoration and using it on Shamal.
[23:21] <Demedais> roll 1d4
[23:21] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d4 and gets 3."12 [1d4=3]
[23:22] * Demedais nods, glancing over to Seira. "I've a shot of Lesser Restoration for you, too."
[23:24] <Kotono> Meanwhile the bees keep fleeing, one of the statues zapping at thema s they pass!
[23:24] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[23:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 22."12 [1d20=18]
[23:24] <Kotono> roll 4d6
[23:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d6 and gets 14."12 [4d6=3, 3, 6, 2]
[23:24] <Kotono> As another bee is kibbled by the statue, the party has a momentary respite! OOC - You guys can free act for the moment.
[23:24] <Shamal> "Now we get out of here and leave them to burn," the blonde concludes, hurling a fireball down near where the fire has already started and backing out the door.
[23:25] * Seira takes a potshot at the last bee as she also retreats.
[23:25] <Seira> roll 1d20+9
[23:25] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+9 and gets 17."12 [1d20=8]
[23:25] <Seira> roll 1d8+1
[23:25] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d8+1 and gets 4."12 [1d8=3]
[23:25] <Demedais> "I'm game for that." Demedais nods willingly.
[23:26] <Kotono> The last bee si stricken again, wounded and fleeing along!
[23:26] * Demedais preps his other Lesser Restoration and waits for Seira to reach his platform.
[23:26] <Shamal> The eagle also takes a swipe!
[23:26] * Seira is soon there!
[23:26] <Shamal> roll 1d20+5
[23:26] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+5 and gets 16."12 [1d20=11]
[23:27] <Kotono> But the eagle misses, as the party regroups on the catwalk! OOC - Fleeing out?
[23:27] <Shamal> OOC: yep
[23:27] * Demedais touches Seira, curing some of the venom's effects.
[23:27] <Demedais> roll 1d4
[23:27] <Kotono> So the three ragged adventurers escape! As they go out of the room, they can begin to smell something sickly-sweet burning behind them...
[23:27] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d4 and gets 2."12 [1d4=2]
[23:28] <Shamal> "Here, since you healed me," Shamal murmurs a spell of her own before tapping Demedais, bestowing manly vigour upon him!
[23:29] <Seira> "How long do you want to wait before trying again?" Seira asks.
[23:30] <Shamal> "Let's give it ten minutes? Any stirred up by the fire in their hive will fly up and hopefully get shot by that statue," Shamal tells Seira as she leans against the closed door, breathing a bit heavily. "Besides, I could use a break myself after that."
[23:30] <Seira> "I guess."
[23:31] * Demedais shrugs, sword still out. "Knowing our luck, we'll awaken the queen zombie.
[23:31] * Seira twitches
[23:31] <Demedais> OOC: Blah, add a ".
[23:31] <Shamal> "Queen bees don't move, so if it's in the hive it won't survive the fire," Shamal comments sagely.
[23:32] <Demedais> "It's a zombie. Does it still have the instincts of a normal bee?
[23:32] * Seira uses a potion as she rests.
[23:32] <Kotono> So the ten minutes begin to pass. About six minutes it, you begin hearing frantic buzzing loud enough to carry through the door, along with an undercurrent of crackling flames. At about seven minutes, you can hear a loud, piercing scream, a keening of an insect.
[23:32] <Seira> roll 1d8+3
[23:32] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d8+3 and gets 8."12 [1d8=5]
[23:33] <Shamal> "It's not instincts, it's simple biology - queen bees are gigantic egg producers, that's all," Shamal tells the paladin, wincing slightly at the noises.
[23:33] <Seira> "A worthy opponent at last!" Seira proclaims, slapping Demedais on his back. "Go get it, tiger!"
[23:33] <Demedais> "...oooookay." Demedais says, sword ready. "Let's hope it can't bash the door down... and I don't think undead are exactly stellar examples of normal biology." He then shoots a dirty look at Seira. "How about no?"
[23:34] <Kotono> The screaming is louder, a quartet of buzzing! The floor seems to shake and quake, as if convulsing for a few seconds. But then the scream stops, only louder buzzing as you can begin to smell smoke, a few wisps coming from the bottom fo the door. Nasty, sick-sweet smoke.
[23:34] * Seira doesn't inhale.
[23:34] * Shamal backs away from the door. "Let's give it a few more minutes?" she suggests, smiling in a somewhat sickly manner.
[23:35] * Demedais doesn't either. "Do we have a way to barricade the door?" he says as he backs away a bit.
[23:35] <Shamal> Is the door made of wood?
[23:36] <Kotono> As the buzzing begins to die down, Shamal can note that the door is made of stone.
[23:36] <Shamal> Then no. Shamal does not have any way to barricade the door. She informs Demedais of this.
[23:37] <Seira> "Sounds like it will be time to return, soon," Seira muses.
[23:37] <Demedais> "Possibly, yes." Demedais nods. "Hopefully the smoke isn't too vicious or poisonous.
[23:38] * Shamal casts detect poison and eyes the smoke that filtered through the door.
[23:38] <Kotono> The smoke trickles out from the door some more,b ut then you feel the floor shake again. The smoke and noise abruptly stop. Shamal notes that the smoke is not overtly poisonous.
[23:39] <Shamal> "It's not poison," Shamal tells Demedais. "It's probably from really bad honey, though."
[23:39] * Demedais idly removes the stingers gently.
[23:39] <Demedais> "Honey actually goes bad?" he asks as he pulls one out from his chestplate. "Wasn't aware of that."
[23:40] <Shamal> "It does if it's made by ZOMBIES!" Shamal blurts out.
[23:40] <Seira> "Undead honey does," Seira responds with a shrug. "Hey, Shamal, want to save those stingers for latter study?"
[23:40] <Demedais> "The question is whether or not the bees made them while they were zombies or not. Though I'm not going to argue the point."
[23:40] <Seira> "You can try it, anyway. Paladins are immune to that stuff, right?"
[23:41] <Shamal> "The poison made my muscles seize up - it'd be good to use against that dragon if there's any we can actually recover from in there. Shall we head back in?" Shamal asks, smoothing out her clothes and trying to calm down.
[23:41] <Seira> "My thoughts exactly. On all counts."
[23:42] <Demedais> "Only diseases, not poison." Demedais pockets the stingers, nodding. "Let's see what's going on." he says, opening the door and standing back once he does so.
[23:42] * Seira refreshes the blurring effect about her.
[23:43] <Kotono> So you head back in! Smoke lingersin the air, mostly rising up towards the roof. The platforms are lightly scorched, everything below them having a faint haze of lingering smokeruining visiblity. Below is a disaster zone - a collapsed beehive starts at about 130 feet down or so, a mix of half burnt beehive, destroyed bees and singed gray wax. It looks like one hell ofa mess.
[23:44] * Demedais quickly glances around for livi- er, de- errrr, unliving bees as he approaches the edge of the platform.
[23:44] <Shamal> "I have no regrets," Shamal pronounces as she looks down at her handiwork, before looking to see if the statue is still present.
[23:44] <Kotono> Seira's rope can be seen in the distance, the top thirty feet intact, but below that scorched up and going from singed to burnt.
[23:44] <Kotono> The statue has collapsed at last, arrows and dents from ice chunks complimented by a few burns.
[23:44] <Kotono> There are burnt bee parts below, but no whole or surviving ones around.
[23:45] <Seira> "My rope was set on fire. I need another rope to help Demedais get across," Seira says in an annoyed voice.
[23:45] * Shamal produces such a rope from her haversack! "This thing sure is handy," she smiles as she hands the rope to Seira.
[23:46] * Seira nods. "The original plan was to use the surface to travel and then drop it from the last platform, but I think we should do this the hard way, now."
[23:47] <Demedais> "Quite possibly, yes. Unless Shamal can climb the walls to attach the rope to the last platform." Demedais offers.
[23:47] <Seira> "That is not the problem. The rope being one hundred feet of a one hundred and thirty feet drop is."
[23:48] <Demedais> "This is a good point and one I am loath to dismiss." Demedais concedes.
[23:48] <Shamal> "Well, a lot of the sides from sixty feet down onwards are covered in bits of the ruined hive - couldn't you climb that first thirty feet without rope?" Shamal asks.
[23:48] * Seira ties Shamal's rope around the platform they stand on, securing it. "I suppose, but the point is helping Demedais, so I think this might go faster."
[23:49] <Shamal> "Well, okay. I'll go scout out the far end," Shamal offers, before she scurries up the wall besides the door, before crawling quite rapidly along the ceiling and then down to the far exit.
[23:50] <Seira> "After you," she tells Demedais.
[23:51] * Demedais eyes the rope uneasily before slowly climbing down it.
[23:52] <Kotono> Shamal climbs along tothe other side without incident, while Demedais descends! OOC - Climbing check here.
[23:53] <Demedais> roll 1d20-2 gogo heavy armor
[23:53] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20-2 gogo heavy armor and gets 3."12 [1d20=5]
[23:54] <Demedais> OOC: Is it actually feasible to take ten for that sort of thing? (Not that I'm sure it matters...)
[23:54] <Kotono> OOC: IF you're not under pressure, yes, but you already rolled.
[23:54] <Demedais> OOC: Yep. That I did.
[23:55] <Kotono> Climbing down a rope in heavy armor is not always a good choice. Demedais findsthis out quickly, the weight of his armor making his grip give! With a cry he plummets after only climbing ten feet down!
[23:55] <Kotono> roll 12d6
[23:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 12d6 and gets 42."12 [12d6=5, 2, 6, 3, 5, 1, 6, 4, 1, 4, 2, 3]
[23:56] <Kotono> OOC - How heavy are you in armor, Deme?
[23:56] <Seira> "Not in the armor..." Seira's voice drifts down after him, belatedly.
[23:56] <Kotono> OOC - Ball park number is fine here.
[23:57] <Demedais> OOC: 250 lb.
[23:57] <Kotono> roll 1d20+150
[23:57] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+150 and gets 163."12 [1d20=13]
[23:58] <Demedais> "...I'll... make... sure to... remember that... next time." Demedais replies, in immense pain.
[23:58] <Seira> "Umm. I'll be right there!" Seira calls back.
[23:59] <Kotono> When Demedais impacts, the bone shatteringness only begins! The ground collapses beneath him, ruined hive giving way! He plummets deeper in, amking a deep, collapsing crater as he falls! Through layer after layer, some heavy, some light, some solid, some waxy, coating Deme's body! But at last he comes to some sort of solid ground, where he impacted far above him, paladin sized holes in a line straight up.
[23:59] <Shamal> "Demedais!" Shamal cries, looking over at all the ruckus. Ignoring her survey of the door, she scurries right down to the ruined hive and hurries over towards where the paladin fell.
[23:59] <Kotono> He's lying on something solid but soft, sticky. It smells sweet here.
Session Time: Sat Jun 23 00:00:00 2007
[00:00] * Demedais closes his eyes and grumbles something about how everyone should be lighter than air, before slowly, -slowly- trying to stand up and find some solid ground.
[00:00] <Kotono> Demedais is able to do this, thanks to the hole is body made above him. He stands in an ankle deep pool of half gray and half yellow honey, mostly smelling good.
[00:01] <Kotono> Meanwhile, Seira and Shamal reach the surface, managing to get to where Deme landed and began is great cratering.
[00:01] * Shamal looks down. "Demedais?" she calls worriedly into the pit.
[00:01] <Seira> "Shamal, think you can fetch the rope?" Seira requests. "And maybe what's left of mine, too, while you're at it?"
[00:02] <Shamal> "I can get mine, but I don't think I can safely reach yours," the blonde replies, climbing up to at least fulfill one part.
[00:02] <Demedais> "Ew, zombified honey." Demedais mutters as he looks around for any way - holes, tunnels, something - for him to climb back up, sword at the ready to use as a way to hack through the hive.
[00:02] <Kotono> On the west wall is a mostly intact tunnel.
[00:02] <Kotono> It goes ever so slightly downward and is fairly dark.
[00:02] <Seira> "Hey, paladin, okay down there?" Seira calls down.
[00:03] <Demedais> "Okay isn't the proper term, I don't think, but I managed to survive." Demedais replied. "I have a tendency to forget I have armor on."
[00:04] * Demedais pulls out a sunrod and strikes it, using it to get a better view into the tunnel!
[00:04] <Seira> "Is there an easy way up?"
[00:04] <Kotono> The tunnel is lined with honey. It gently descends downward, smelling rather good.
[00:04] <Demedais> "Looking for one. There's a tunnel to my left, I'm going to see where it goes. Lined with honey. Does that mean anything?"
[00:05] <Seira> "Bees were there," Seira deadpans. "Can you see where it's headed?"
[00:06] * Seira glances down the Demedais-shaped hole, meanwhile.
[00:06] * Shamal soon returns, 100ft of rope in tow!
[00:06] <Demedais> "Looks like it's going downward a bit, but any path is better than zombie honey." Demedais says in the same flat tone as Seira as he slowly steps in. "I'll come back this way in a minute or two." Using his sword to carve a line into the floor of the tunnel, Demedais wanders in a bit.
[00:07] <Seira> "Wait!"
[00:08] * Demedais pauses and looks back out. "Did I hear you guys say something?"
[00:09] <Seira> "Yes! Do you think you can climb up instead? The levels here are only a few feet apart, we could come down and help you."
[00:09] <Shamal> "Maybe take your armour off, first!" Shamal calls down helpfully, cupping a hand over her mouth.
[00:10] * Seira turns to look at Shamal. "Think we can help make a stairway for him?"
[00:10] <Seira> "If we go at an angle, we shouldn't fall after him, and it would be easy to climb back up," she adds.
[00:11] * Demedais considers. "I'd actually guess that I could find my way out through the passages, in all honesty. But... hm." With this thought, Demedais chops at the ceiling of the tunnel he's just barely in, attempting to make a ramp for him to climb up... assuming there's another tunnel above him.
[00:11] <Shamal> "We could try," Shamal nods, looking to see how easy it would be to drop down between levels without falling down the Demedais shaped hole in the middle.
[00:11] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[00:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 29."12 [1d100=29]
[00:11] <Seira> "Heading further down, of the bad!"
[00:12] <Kotono> A way ahead can be chopped out fairly easily. It leads to a semi collapsed tunnel, half intact but with clogs visible if you peer up.
[00:12] <Demedais> "Heading to a tunnel up, of the good!" Demedais counters irritably.
[00:13] <Seira> "It's a maze! Really! With things possibly still in it!"
[00:13] <Demedais> "Idly, I'm going to try that stairway idea. Lemme just get chopping here..." With that, Demedais began finishing the ramp upward so that he could start on the next ramp up...
[00:14] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[00:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 67."12 [1d100=67]
[00:14] <Kotono> This one is clearer, a bit more gray in the honey here. The smell of less favorable, rottingness fills your nose, but you could go upward and follow this path a ways.
[00:15] * Seira unsheathes Flash of Heaven and tries to chop away some of the ground near the hole to make descent to the next level and not all the way down plausible.
[00:15] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[00:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 44."12 [1d100=44]
[00:15] * Demedais ducks back down out of his makeshift path and yells upward, "I'm making a path up. Give me a little bit." With that, he follows his new path a bit!
[00:16] <Kotono> Seira finds that the next level below her is semi intact, gray, nasty wax lining the walls. The passage here heads down a ways.
[00:16] * Seira shakes her fist at the hole, but settles to wait.
[00:17] <Shamal> "Let us know if you run into trouble!" Shamal calls down, also settling in to wait.
[00:18] <Kotono> Demedais follows this path a bit. It seems largely intact, leading him up. After about ten feet up and thirty to the side he comes to a partial clog. However, he can see a bit past it - it looks like some sort of semi intact large chamber. There looks to be gray, round things all around there, all the same shape.
[00:19] * Demedais hesitates. "Okay, that's probably the egg chamber and there's -no way- I'm getting myself eaten by baby bees." With that. Demedais pokes through the ceiling again to see what's above him!
[00:19] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[00:19] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 81."12 [1d100=81]
[00:20] <Kotono> It goes up a few feet before emptying out. He can see what looks to be a large room there, mostly jutting out of the left side. Another view of thes ame room that's blocked, he thinks, down to the gray, possible bee eggs.
[00:21] <Demedais> "No." Demedais says to the bee eggs before heading down the path about ten feet and trying again!
[00:21] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[00:21] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 23."12 [1d100=23]
[00:21] <Kotono> There's another path here, half blocked off. It goes upward rather sharply, and while the sticky honey on the walls would help, would rquire a bit of climbing.
[00:22] <Demedais> "... maybe if I need to." Demedais grumbles as he heads down another 10 feet!
[00:22] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[00:22] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 31."12 [1d100=31]
[00:22] <Kotono> Another pathway, this one heading back thew ay you came and slightly upward.
[00:23] * Demedais nods happily and makes a ramp here!
[00:24] <Kotono> So Demedais climbs up! This leads him perhaps ten feet up before he comes to an upward tunnel. A tunnel straight up, as if someone fell through it. Looking down, he can see where he landed, about 15 feet above it. Opposite him, about ten feet on the other side, si another intact tunnel.
[00:26] <Demedais> "Hello!" he yells up to Seira and Shamal. "I'll try and get farther up here! Oh, and I should stay away from grey round balls, right?
[00:26] <Seira> "Are they evil?" Seira calls down.
[00:26] <Demedais> "I can't tell, you know that." Demedais replies irritably.
[00:26] <Shamal> "Assume that they are!" Shamal tells him.
[00:27] <Seira> "If you need magic to tell, then avoid them!"
[00:27] <Demedais> "That was my general feeling!" With that, Demedais pokes upward again. *This'll take a bit...*
[00:28] <Seira> "Want to tie up the rope to the last platform for now, Shamal?" Seira asks. "It could save us some time."
[00:28] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[00:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 88."12 [1d100=88]
[00:28] * Seira stands up to look for anything to make into a ramp at the other end of the chamber.
[00:28] <Shamal> "Okay," Shamal nods. "Call if you need me," she says, heading off to do that.
[00:28] <Kotono> So Demedais creeps on. As gray becomes more prevanlent he gets another ten feet up or so before coming to a dead end, a caved in section.
[00:29] * Demedais pokes up again, hoping for more of a path up!
[00:29] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[00:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 61."12 [1d100=61]
[00:29] <Kotono> Nothing here, it looks like you need to risk digging higher or up backtrack and try again.
[00:30] * Demedais digs higher.
[00:30] <Kotono> Reaching up as far as he can and struggling, Demedais comes to a gap. It looks like another large room, rather dark as his head peeks in. OOC - Listening check.
[00:31] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
[00:31] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 and gets 13."12 [1d20=12]
[00:32] <Demedais> "Aaaand how about no!" Demedais says, retreating back to the hole he made.
[00:34] <Demedais> He then eyes the gap between him and the other intact tunnel, before taking his armor off. With a moment's hesitation, he tosses it across to the other side, before leaping over himself!
[00:34] <Kotono> OOC - Jumping check, I suppose.
[00:35] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4 oh come on don't hate on me now Hatbot
[00:35] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+4 oh come on don't hate on me now Hatbot and gets 22."12 [1d20=18]
[00:35] <Kotono> The jump is easily made, Demedais reaching the other side.
[00:36] * Demedais nods and hitches the armor on top of his traveler's bag. "Gonna have some backache after this..." he grumbles as he stabs upward here!
[00:40] <Kotono> This path is better - relatively straight up for thirty feet, looping back around to the tunnel in time. He's about 45 feet up now, able to see Seira and Shamal much more easily now.
[00:41] <Shamal> Except Shamal is away tying up her rope by the other exit!
[00:41] * Seira shows up by the hole once in a while to check up on things between building the ramp.
[00:41] * Demedais waves at Seira. "Hello! Almost there." He winces as he moves his shoulder.
[00:42] * Seira nods.
[00:43] <Kotono> From there the rest of the escape goes without incident. Demedais eventually gets back to the surface, injured but alive!
[00:44] * Seira takes him over to the other side of the room where Shamal undoubtedly waits, asking, "Do you have a potion on you?"
[00:44] * Shamal waves her wand over Demedais a few times, having set up her rope by now. "Let's not wear armour when climbing in future?" she suggests primly.
[00:44] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[00:44] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d8+1 and gets 9."12 [1d8=8]
[00:44] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[00:44] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d8+1 and gets 7."12 [1d8=6]
[00:44] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[00:44] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d8+1 and gets 4."12 [1d8=3]
[00:45] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[00:45] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d8+1 and gets 8."12 [1d8=7]
[00:45] * Demedais winces as he gets back up. "Alright, back. How are things amongst you surface dwellers?" He shakes his head in the negative. "Sadly, no potion, and yeah, I refuse to do -that- ever again."
[00:45] <Seira> "Oh. Wands. Even better!"
[00:45] * Seira glances at the rope. "Climb slowly, I'll send your armor up after that."
[00:46] * Demedais nods, disattaching his bag and armor from his back and pulling himself up slowly so as to, you know, not kill Seira and Shamal by falling.
[00:46] <Shamal> "I'll help you, so take it slow," Shamal offers, going up alongside whomever is climbing up, offering a hand or a leg-up here and there.
[00:46] <Shamal> roll 1d20 aid another
[00:46] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20 aid another and gets 5."12 [1d20=5]
[00:46] * Seira is respectfully away from any falling paladins.
[00:47] <Shamal> Shamal happens to mostly get in the way and is not very helpful, however, seeming to only taunt Demedais with her own effortless climbing.
[00:47] <Demedais> OOC: Take ten + 4 + taking it slow all the way up good enough?
[00:47] <Kotono> Demedais...reaches the top at last!
[00:48] * Seira secures the rope to herself, and asks Shamal to place the armor in her haversack after calling for Demedais to pull her back up.
[00:48] * Shamal climbs back down to give Seira her own special help!
[00:48] <Shamal> roll 1d20 aid another
[00:48] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20 aid another and gets 15."12 [1d20=15]
[00:49] <Shamal> With Seira's more svelte and elfin frame, Shamal is able to provide better assistance, aiding her friend in her ascent with some timely intervention here and there!
[00:49] * Seira nods to herself once she's up on the platform. "There are two more statues around, seems like," she comments. "Want to try and destroy them in case we have to run?"
[00:50] * Demedais nods, exhaling as he sits down to rest. Bah. Climbing is for young people.
[00:50] <Shamal> "Won't they only appear if we step on the other floating platforms?" Shamal asks. "We'll be fine if we come and go the same way we just did... minus the falling part, anyway."
[00:51] <Seira> "They might appear if I throw a rock over that platform, and my range is superior to theirs."
[00:52] <Shamal> "I'd rather just leave them, in all honesty," Shamal admits, going to the door. "They shouldn't bother us, really."
[00:52] <Kotono> The door is coated in gray wax, but there is a pullring visible.
[00:52] * Seira nods, and searches the door for traps!
[00:52] <Seira> roll 1d20+7
[00:52] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+7 and gets 9."12 [1d20=2]
[00:52] <Seira> "It's safe!"

[18:44] * Demedais looks to Shamal. "May I get my armor back?"
[18:44] <Shamal> "Of course," Shamal smiles as she hands Demedais his armour while waiting on Seira opening the door she pronounced safe.
[18:44] * Demedais nods and dons it.
[18:44] * Shamal sets mode: +v Reiko-chan
[18:46] * Seira waits on Demedais, before opening the door.
[18:47] <Ko-nata> OOC - Reflex save.
[18:47] <Demedais> OOC: Everyone?
[18:48] <Seira> roll 1d20+8
[18:48] <Ko-nata> OOC - Sorry, just Seira.
[18:48] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Seira rolled :1,0 1d20+8 --> 1,0[ 1d20=19 ]12,0{27}
[18:48] <Ko-nata> Seira leaps out of the way on a pure instinctive streak! As she does and the door opens, a great ball of acid appears in the doorway! A blade of it, swooping bakc(Seira just missed!) and lunging forward into the next room before dissipating. (MorE)
[18:50] <Ko-nata> Here is a plain, pleasant room. It is made of serene white marble, green plants and ivy growing on the walls. In the center is a pretty fountain, with doors to the left, right and downward ways, all four walls doored. (You're coming in from the 'up' direction.)
[18:50] <Shamal> "Um... maybe you should double check the safety of doors in future, Seira?" Shamal suggests, a little wide-eyed after that display.
[18:50] <Ko-nata> The fountain is of a beautiful celestial and a dire abyssial, locked in combat and with mouths open. From this harmony of battle water flows from both wide open, battle crying maws, twin tails ofw ater failling into the fountain's basin.
[18:51] <Seira> "It's no wonder I overlooked it, since the trap was so easy to avoid," Seira says, nodding firmly.
[18:52] * Shamal slowly makes her way into the room, casting detect magic and looking around.
[18:52] * Seira follows, bow out.
[18:52] <Demedais> "I'd like to note that that is what Seira considers 'safe'. Heaven help us if she ever finds anything unsafe." Demedais snarks as he walks into the room with Shamal, looking around. After the last room he's taking no chances - holy symbol around his neck, sword out.
[18:53] <Ko-nata> The entire place radiates overwhelming magic. It is peaceful in here, only the burble of water disturing the flow and ebb of time. Each of the other three doors are of recessed golden tinged stone.
[18:53] <Shamal> roll 1d20+16 knowledge nature on the plants
[18:53] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+16 1,0knowledge nature on the plants --> 1,0[ 1d20=7 ]12,0{23}
[18:54] <Shamal> roll 1d20+15 spellcraft on the magic
[18:55] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+15 1,0spellcraft on the magic --> 1,0[ 1d20=5 ]12,0{20}
[18:56] <Shamal> "Strong magic all around, but nothing I can identify..." Shamal looks slightly frustrated, going over to examine the fountain in detail before anything else.
[18:57] <Shamal> roll 1d20+9 knowledge planes for fun
[18:57] <Seira> "We're not really for the reception office," Seira says with a shrug. "Let's pick a path and go on."
[18:57] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+9 1,0knowledge planes for fun --> 1,0[ 1d20=5 ]12,0{14}
[18:57] * Demedais glances at the celestial and abyssal fighting to see if he recognizes either before looking into the fountain to see if there's anything in there.
[18:58] <Ko-nata> The fountain is quite pleasant. The white marble figures are designed exceptionally well. Whomever did it had a fine hand indeed. Demedais notes that there are tiny drains at the bottom of the fountain...OOC - Spot check, Deme.
[18:59] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
[18:59] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Demedais rolled :1,0 1d20+1 --> 1,0[ 1d20=1 ]12,0{2}
[18:59] * Reiko-chan was kicked by Shamal (Hint taken)
[18:59] * Misukibot (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) has joined #dunes
[18:59] * Shamal sets mode: +v Misukibot
[19:00] * Demedais sees jack squat in the fountain. "Was hoping for some spare change..." Demedais mutters as he continues to look around.
[19:00] -thundarr.dejatoons.net:@#dunes- Ko-nata invited Reiko-chan into the channel.
[19:00] * Reiko-chan (~Hola@75-161-141-110.mpls.qwest.net) has joined #dunes
[19:00] * Shamal goes over to the 'east' door (assuming the one they came in via was north) and checks it over for any unique magical auras before listening against it for anything on the other side.
[19:00] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10 listen
[19:00] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+10 listen --> [ 1d20=14 ]{24}
[19:01] <Ko-nata> Demedais sees little of note in the fountain.  The door radiates overwhelming magic, making it impossible to tell, as does everything in this room.
[19:01] * Seira decides to take her time and examine all the doors thoroughly for traps while the others look around.
[19:02] <Ko-nata> Seira finds that the north door has a recurring trap; every time it's opened a blade of acid strikes out. Mostly towards  anyone in this room, but anyone close to the door int he bee room could be grazed by it's backlash. The other doors are not trapped.
[19:02] <Shamal> "I hear some sort of ticking noise... like a slow woodpecker?" Shamal muses as she listens at the door. "Want to investigate this one first?"
[19:03] <Seira> "Strange," Seira muses out loud. "The trap is aimed at this room, not the one with the bees."
[19:03] <Demedais> "Whatever. There's nothing in here, it seems, although if we could get it back to town the statue would probably sell to some rich guy for a ridiculous amount." Demedais grumbes about the lack of taste people have.
[19:03] <Demedais> "It is? Then we must've come in the back door."
[19:03] * Shamal opens the door! "So it seems," she nods to Demedais.
[19:04] <Seira> "It's as back as it gets."
[19:04] * Demedais nods as he leads the group in, looking around.
[19:05] <Ko-nata> INside a ten foot wide hall awaits. There are dim lights here, a steady, subtle sound of a clock ticking. The floor is a cobblestone path, the walls cold, ice rimmed stone. It looks like it goes a good ways, you can't see an end to the hall, only occasional orbs of light giving luminence.
[19:05] <Ko-nata> The ticking sound comes from far down the hall, carrying with an unusual clarity.
[19:05] * Shamal advances, keeping an eye out for any magical traps.
[19:06] * Demedais stays near Shamal and Seira, sword still out. What if the whole place is infested with those zombie bees?
[19:07] <Ko-nata> OOC - Spot check, Sham-chan.
[19:07] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10
[19:07] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+10 --> [ 1d20=6 ]{16}
[19:08] <Ko-nata> The way ahead is quiet. You walk a minute or so before you can see the end of the hallway. Set into the back wall is a great, ornamental thing - a giant timeface, with 1-12 arraigned as per a normal clock. A steady, endless ticking occurs from it every second, as giant ivorywhite hands are pointed at the 12, showing true noon or midnight. They do not move.
[19:09] * Demedais blinks rapidly. "In the name of Helm... This long of a hallway for a pretty clock?"
[19:09] <Shamal> "What in the world..." Shamal murmurs softly, staring at the bizarre contraption. "There has to be something more to it."
[19:10] * Seira examines the clock to better understand its mechanism.
[19:10] <Ko-nata> OOC - What skill are you thinking here?
[19:11] <Seira> OOC: Disable Device, I guess. Except without the disabling?  >_>
[19:11] <Ko-nata> OOC: Mmm, that's fine, it's close enough and the only thing that really deals with anything related. -2 to the check, though.
[19:12] <Seira> roll 1d20+12
[19:12] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=12 ]{24}
[19:13] <Demedais> OOC: Is the minute hand on top of the hour hand or vice versa?
[19:13] <Ko-nata> OOC: The minute hand is and it's longer, yeah.
[19:15] <Seira> "The device is activated when the time is set correctly," Seira says at last, moving back from the giant clock. "Perhaps the other paths would hold clues to what that is."
[19:15] <Demedais> "And do we know what the device does?"
[19:16] <Shamal> "I suppose there's nothing else here. We'll have to search elsewhere for clues," Shamal resolves, heading back.
[19:16] <Seira> "We could always identify it."
[19:16] <Shamal> roll 1d20+15 spellcraft on clock
[19:17] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+15 spellcraft on clock --> [ 1d20=12 ]{27}
[19:17] <Demedais> "We can identify it after we know how to activate it. No use doing it beforehand, I guess?"
[19:18] <Shamal> "It has three schools, transmutation, conjuration, and divination. Hopefully we can find more clues to its purpose elsewhere," Shamal tells Demedais as she departs.
[19:18] <Seira> "Identifying it would help us learn that," Seira muses, "though it would waste valuable time."
[19:19] <Demedais> "Then let's keep going." Demedais nods as he follows Shamal out.
[19:19] <Ko-nata> So you return to the white marble fountain room. The water continues to burble harmlessly.
[19:20] * Shamal now goes to the 'south' door and opens it!
[19:20] * Demedais follows Shamal, leading the way in so that she isn't the first to fight the raging zombie bee colonies.
[19:22] <Ko-nata> The door opens! Past this door is what appears to the front exit of Seira's inn. You peer out the dragonish mouth, seeing Balmuria in a crimson red sunset. But the streets are empty, silent as a tomb.
[19:23] * Shamal looks for the obvious illusion magic. Just to confirm what she's already certain is there.
[19:23] <Ko-nata> The entire room radiates overwhelming magic.
[19:23] <Ko-nata> *area
[19:23] <Shamal> roll 1d20+15 spellcraft~
[19:23] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+15 spellcraft~ --> [ 1d20=5 ]{20}
[19:24] * Demedais eyes. "Seira, you have the most fascinating of neighbours." he drily comments.
[19:24] <Shamal> "Okay... was anyone thinking about Seira's inn just now?" Shamal asks as she peers at the eerie tableau before them.
[19:24] <Demedais> "No." Demedais shakes his head.
[19:24] <Seira> "No, but there's something else I'm thinking of," Seira says. "Demedais, mind using your spell of restoration on me once more?"
[19:25] <Ko-nata> A slight breeze runs down the streets, a few scraps of paper blowing in the wind. Otherwise, it is silent, even if you can still smell the scent of the sea in that wind.
[19:25] <Demedais> "Uh, I'm out of uses." Demedais replies, a bit puzzled.
[19:25] <Demedais> "Also, do we go to Seira's inn or not?"
[19:26] <Shamal> "It has to have pulled this scene from somewhere," Shamal murmurs, taking out her quarterstaff and using it to poke one of the dragon's teeth as she steps out into fake-Balmuria.
[19:26] <Ko-nata> Shamal's quarterstaff hits the tooth. Little happens. The slight im pact sound from it sounds abnormally loud, no ambient town noises to muffle it.
[19:27] * Seira hands him a pearl. "I hear this helps when even strong men encounter that little problem."
[19:27] <Demedais> "Pulled this scene fr- wait, you think it's an illusion?" He accepts the pearl, either ignoring or missing the subtlety, and tries casting Lesser Restoration on Seira.
[19:28] <Demedais> roll 1d4 Lesser Restoration hax
[19:28] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d4 Lesser Restoration hax --> [ 1d4=1 ]{1}
[19:28] <Shamal> "Unless the gnomes went to the trouble of building a life size replica of Balmuria thousands of years before it ever existed?" Shamal replies innocently, stepping fully out into the city and looking around.
[19:28] <Demedais> "So...
[19:28] * Seira takes the pearl back, feeling invigorated!
[19:28] <Demedais> " Demedais steps out for a second into the street and turns to look at the door they just stepped through.
[19:29] <Ko-nata> The streets are empty. However, Shamal can notice that every street have a decree scroll pinned every so often, as if for the masses to read. The door you step out from is the entrance to Seira's inn. It looks as it always does, except you see the white marble room you came from instead of the entrance to her inn.
[19:29] * Shamal walks over to read the nearest scroll!
[19:29] <Seira> "Perhaps the clock commands the vision that appears here...."
[19:30] <Ko-nata> Shamal sees the following:
[19:31] <Ko-nata> "All citizens on this street will report to the garrison at sundown. Long live our King!" Below that is a crude smile and eyes, drawn of blood like red ink.
[19:32] <Shamal> "I didn't know we had a king," Shamal blurts out, before turning to her companions. "I think its hinting we should go to the garrison."
[19:32] <Seira> "I think we should examine the remaining path first," Seira cautions.
[19:32] <Shamal> "If you like," Shamal shrugs, heading back to the fountain room and then opening the last door!
[19:33] <Demedais> "Uh. Wait. Go to the garrison in the illusion or the garrison in the actual world?" Demedais questions, following Shamal as she moves on.
[19:33] <Seira> "It could well be divination, can't it?"
[19:33] <Shamal> "In the illusion," Shamal replies tiredly.
[19:35] <Demedais> "But... couldn't that lead us straight into a pit or some other trap the illusion's camouflaging? Why else would gnomes set up something that plants a vision into intruder's heads, if not to trick us into a deathtrap?" Demedais inquires.
[19:35] <Ko-nata> Inside this last door is a strange place. A long strip of metal is set on a platform as long as the eye can see, going down a wide, seemingly limitless room. It's only a five feetw ide or so, but it seems to move forward endlessly. This belt carries on it clumps of dirt, occasional sparkles noted inside - the sparkles of minerals and gems.
[19:36] <Ko-nata> Far ahead you can see some sort of giant pot set into the floor, but you can't see any more without approaching.
[19:37] <Shamal> "I didn't say going there was a good idea. I said it was hinting that we should go there," the blonde sighs as they head into the next room. "Now what...?" she murmurs, going over towards the conveyor belt.
[19:38] <Demedais> "Ah, I see." Demedais replies.
[19:38] <Ko-nata> You can see that it reaches the way you came, blurring just past the door and becoming entirely indistinct. On the actual line are large clumps of dirt and stone, but each clearly has minerals or raw gems in it, mostly the latter. They are carried along far ahead, where the strange line ends and it all falls intot he giant pot.
[19:38] * Seira opts to stay behind and talk with Demedais. "It may well not be of gnomish make, of course," she tells him. "And even if it was, they seemed to be using it. It's not like all of their creations merely served to trap and kill looters in the future."
[19:39] * Shamal heads over to look in the pot, forgoing the urge to snag a few gems for the moment.
[19:41] <Ko-nata> This is a fair walk, but Shamal makes it. IN the pot is a deeeep drop, about thirty feet. Once everything lands in piles, it seems to magically sort. The majority of the plain dirt is spyhoned off down a hole in the side, but the few gems rise up. Ahead is another, smaller pot, where the gems settle. Past that all this ends, the hall stretching on. You can distantly see something sparkling on the horizon there, however.
[19:41] <Shamal> OOC: Any magic?
[19:41] <Ko-nata> OOC: The entire place radiates overwhelming magic.
[19:42] <Shamal> roll 1d20+15 why~
[19:42] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+15 why~ --> [ 1d20=3 ]{18}
[19:43] * Shamal squints her eyes and looks to the... horizon?! How big is this place?
[19:44] <Ko-nata> It stretches on for as far as Shamal can see, and endless hall. As she stares, she finds she is able to make out details. There seems to be some sort of stand there, or a desk, or...she can't quite tell, but there is something. And end, perhaps?
[19:45] <Seira> "Anything exciting?" Seira calls to Shamal.
[19:45] <Shamal> "I see something in the distance, but this place is huge," Shamal calls back to Seira and Demedais. "There's also a gigantic pot full of gems down there if that interests you."
[19:47] * Seira shrugs. "The city would certainly be interested in this." She moves over to the pot, adding, "I won't take any until you're done with this place in case there is a trap of some kind," and proceeds to examine the pot for those.
[19:47] <Demedais> "Mmm. Perhaps, worst comes to worst, we can use those as a bribe. Though I'm beginning to warm to 'whup the dragon' as a general concept." Demedais notes as he goes to catch up with Shamal.
[19:49] <Shamal> "Well, I should be able to climb down there easily enough," Shamal hazards, starting to make her way down to the smaller gem-filled pot so she can stock up on loot.
[19:50] <Ko-nata> The pot isn't too hard to get to, Shamal could carefully bend overand reach in all the way and get out some gems if she liked.
[19:51] <Ko-nata> OOC - Which pot, Seira?
[19:51] <Seira> OOC: The gigantic gem-filled one? I'll stay on the ground and examine what I can.
[19:51] * Shamal first attempts to discern if there are any seperate magical auras on this particular pot before she risks any limbs!
[19:53] <Ko-nata> It's a pot - this one is only about five feet deep. Here gems of every type sit, coming in polished and restored from the previous sorting pot. They just like there, sparkling. OOC - Spellcraft, Sham-chan.
[19:53] <Shamal> roll 1d20+15
[19:53] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+15 --> [ 1d20=2 ]{17}
[19:55] * Shamal pokes her quarterstaff in the pot and gives it a little stir before risking her hands.
[19:56] <Seira> "Magical trap, don't move the gems," Seira calls to Shamal.
[19:59] * Shamal yanks her quarterstaff back as soon as she hears Seira, perhaps too late?!
[19:59] <Seira> "We could get one with magic and see what happens, if you want to," Seira offers.
[19:59] <Ko-nata> Shamal is able to yank her quarterstaff back just before touching the gems.
[20:00] <Shamal> "Okay..." Shamal breathes a little heavily as she climbs back up to rejoin the others. "Let's try that rather than risk losing any limbs."
[20:01] <Seira> "Get back so that I'll be the only one horribly mangled by the overwhelming magics?" Seira asks, waiting on the others to move before picking out a pretty gem and using Mage Hand to latch onto it.
[20:01] * Demedais blinks before moving back.
[20:02] <Ko-nata> OOC - Just grabbing it and bringing it back up?
[20:02] * Seira intends to grab onto the gem, and them bring it out on the other side of the pot from her, then lay it on the ground.
[20:02] * Disconnected
[20:02] * Attempting to rejoin channel #dunes
[20:02] * Rejoined channel #dunes
[20:02] * Topic is 'Remember to make Puk'lor, Gourash, and Keylin roll will saves against searing agony when they go into the shop | Shamal>Seira>Deme>BEES>Statues'
[20:02] * Set by Kotono on Fri Jun 22 19:49:04
[20:03] * Seira (~Corwin@bzq-88-155-213-84.red.bezeqint.net) has joined #dunes
[20:03] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Seira
[20:03] <Ko-nata> Seira's magic grabs a gem and brings it up! It's a beautiful small sapphire, twinking like a tiny sea teardrop. Nothing obvious seems to happen...
[20:04] <Seira> "Success?" she says uncertainly.
[20:04] * Seira shrugs and returns to the exit from the room.
[20:04] <Shamal> "So it would seem," Shamal hazards. "Don't you want to investigate that shiny thing in the distance, though?"
[20:05] * Seira tilts her head, and takes out a copper coin, flipping it.
[20:05] <Seira> roll 1d2
[20:05] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d2 --> [ 1d2=1 ]{1}
[20:05] <Seira> "Yes!"
[20:05] <Shamal> "Okay, then," Shamal nods and starts towards the shiny horizon thing!
[20:06] <Ko-nata> AS Shamal and Seira and Demedais turn to it, they can clearly see something moving, coming from the horizon and heading in your direction. It looks like someone or something on foot.
[20:06] * Corwin (~corwin@bzq-88-153-86-253.red.bezeqint.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[20:06] <Seira> "Maybe that's the trap," Seira suggests, and her bow is ready once more.
[20:06] * Demedais has his sword out, ready!
[20:07] * Shamal peers carefully at whatever it is to try and identify it before settling on a spell to cast.
[20:08] <Ko-nata> So it approaches! You quickly see that it is a humanoid - no, a short humanoid. A gnome? He wears formfitting plate mail, covered with spikes. His face is cleanshaven, a helm with a large red gem set in the center worn.  "What do you think you're doing?!" he asks in perfect Common. "No interfering with the line!" He calls this from a good distance away, stomping up.
[20:09] <Seira> "We like traps. We wanted to see what happens," Seira responds.
[20:09] <Shamal> "Has to be an illusion," Shamal mutters to herself. Then again, they aren't normally interactive, from what she's seen before.
[20:10] <Ko-nata> "You're fouling everything up! Slaves, I'll have your heads on pikes!" He growls again, irritated, "If you want to keep living..." He stares dead on at the heroes. "You'll cease this before I have your heads liberated from your bodies!"
[20:10] <Shamal> OOC: is he... magic?!
[20:10] <Seira> "So. You're alive, right?"
[20:11] <Shamal> roll 1d20+15 come on, I'm due!
[20:11] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+15 come on, I'm due! --> [ 1d20=4 ]{19}
[20:11] <Demedais> "Slaves?" Demedais growls. "An amusing joke, that is."
[20:12] <Shamal> "Armour and helmet are magical, he's not an illusion," Shamal whispers, tensing in readiness. This could get ugly...
[20:12] * Seira snickers to herself. "An autopsy. On a real gnome. My, how exciting!"
[20:12] <Ko-nata> "Are you daft?" Growling again as his face turns red, "Of course I'm alive..w-what?!" His expression bugs out even more, "Enough of this! Disrupting the process of spellgem preparations is death! Guards!" OOC - He's attacking, so initiative.
[20:13] <Demedais> "....he's real? Aren't they all... a zombie, perhaps?" Demedais says, readying himself to smite.
[20:13] <Shamal> roll 1d20+1 oh the pain of dex damage
[20:13] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+1 oh the pain of dex damage --> [ 1d20=16 ]{17}
[20:13] <Ko-nata> roll 1d20+2
[20:13] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d20+2 --> [ 1d20=8 ]{10}
[20:13] <Demedais> roll 1d20-2
[20:13] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d20-2 --> [ 1d20=5 ]{3}
[20:13] <Seira> roll 1d20+5
[20:13] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+5 --> [ 1d20=14 ]{19}
[20:13] * Ko-nata changes topic to 'Remember to make Puk'lor, Gourash, and Keylin roll will saves against searing agony when they go into the shop |  Seira>Shamal>Gnome>Deme-chan'
[20:15] <Seira> "Hey, living gnome person, would you know where the Fourth Resort is?" Seira asks conversationally, cheerfully trying to turn him into a porcupine.
[20:15] <Seira> roll 1d20+9
[20:15] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=7 ]{16}
[20:15] <Seira> roll 1d20+9
[20:15] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=4 ]{13}
[20:16] <Ko-nata> Both arrows tink off his armor, deflected by good protection! "HERESY!" he screams, froth forming at his mouth. "Where are the guards?!" OOC - Shamal.
[20:16] <Seira> "I meant to do that!"
[20:17] * Demedais sets his shield to 'float and rape' mode. "Just like I meant to fall down into the beehive?" Demedais notes wryly.
[20:17] <Shamal> "Calm yourself!" Shamal calls stridently, whipping a hand forward as several thick strands of kelp jet out to ensnare the gnome!
[20:17] <Shamal> roll 1d20+4 ranged touch
[20:17] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+4 ranged touch --> [ 1d20=12 ]{16}
[20:17] <Seira> "No. This was a calculated attempt to instill proper fear and respect into the short one," she responds. "You just fell."
[20:17] <Ko-nata> OOC - Hit. Grapple now or what?
[20:17] <Shamal> roll 1d20+11 grapple check
[20:17] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+11 grapple check --> [ 1d20=5 ]{16}
[20:18] <Ko-nata> roll 1d20+9
[20:18] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=3 ]{12}
[20:21] <Ko-nata> The strands of kelp snake around him, grappling him! Yet instead of fighting, the gnome seems to concentrate! The big red gem in his helmet glows, before a great ball of fire detonates around the heroes! OOC - Reflex saves.
[20:21] <Shamal> roll 1d20+4
[20:21] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+4 --> [ 1d20=18 ]{22}
[20:21] <Seira> roll 1d20+8
[20:21] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+8 --> [ 1d20=20 ]{28}
[20:21] <Demedais> roll 1d20+3 hate reflex
[20:21] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d20+3 hate reflex --> [ 1d20=5 ]{8}
[20:22] <Ko-nata> roll 6d6
[20:22] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 6d6 --> [ 6d6=16 ]{16}
[20:23] <Ko-nata> The ball fo fire erupts, Seira somehow dancing out of the way! Shamal is able to shield her face, her arms burnt but her vitals intact! Demedais is not so fast, a scorching burst sizzling the paladin inside his armor! OOC - Demedais.
[20:23] <Seira> "Man, you're weak," Seira says in disgust. "Hey, Shamal, is he even worth dissecting?"
[20:24] * Sierra_Devourer (~Melanchth@pool-71-163-225-153.washdc.east.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[20:24] <Shamal> "Worry about that after we subdue him!" Shamal snaps back a bit peevishly. "And aren't you just a little bit curious how a gnome is even alive, now?"
[20:24] <Seira> "Magic," Seira deadpans.
[20:25] <Ko-nata> As he struggles lighting in the kelp, "Oh, you'll die at the God King's feet for this heresy! You'll suffer under the wrath of the True God!" His voice is angry and high pitched, frentic!
[20:26] <Seira> "And yet, no guards come. This does not bode well for you. Wanna surrender now?"
[20:27] <Demedais> "Ow! Okay, that wasn't nice!" Demedais grumbles. "Stupid small dude! Seira, get that helmet from him!" Demedais swings his blade, trying to slap the cocky arse with the flat of his blade!
[20:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6 (-4 for subdual, +1 PA)
[20:28] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d20+6 (-4 for subdual, +1 PA) --> [ 1d20=1 ]{7}
[20:28] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 let's try this again, same conditions
[20:28] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d20+1 let's try this again, same conditions --> [ 1d20=16 ]{17}
[20:28] <Ko-nata> OOC - Second one hit.
[20:29] <Demedais> roll 2d6+9
[20:29] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 2d6+9 --> [ 2d6=6 ]{15}
[20:30] <Ko-nata> Clang! A flat of the blade smiting, ringing the gnome's body with a direct if restrained hit! This rocks him in his prison of kelp, but doesn't seem to do him in yet! OOC - Sei-ra.
[20:31] * Seira merrily dances around the struggling gnome, doing as Demedais requested and trying to relieve the gnome of his helmet.
[20:31] <Seira> roll 1d20+13
[20:31] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+13 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{22}
[20:32] <Ko-nata> With nimble fingers Seira is able to dance around and remove his helmet! It's a bit small for any of you to wear easily, but it's still in your hands and not on his head! You see that he's bald underneath, "Thief! Heretics!" He struggles, starting to look around in worry. OOC - Shamal.
[20:32] <Seira> "Cry me a river," she says flatly, helmet in hand.
[20:32] <Seira> "Oh. And consider investing in a gem of hair."
[20:33] <Shamal> "Your the heretic - your people's blasphemy is what caused their doom," Shamal tells the little gnome. "Now calm down so we won't have to hurt you any more."
[20:33] * Demedais idly reaches up to rub his notably tonsured head.
[20:33] <Shamal> You're*
[20:34] <Ko-nata> OOC - You can try a diplomacy or an initimadation roll if you like, Shamal.
[20:34] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10 diplomacy because I'm just not scary
[20:34] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+10 diplomacy because I'm just not scary --> [ 1d20=13 ]{23}
[20:34] <Seira> roll 1d20+17 to aid Shamal~
[20:34] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+17 to aid Shamal~ --> [ 1d20=1 ]{18}
[20:34] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 assist!
[20:34] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d20+15 assist! --> [ 1d20=6 ]{21}
[20:36] * Carthrat is now known as Carthrat-Sleep
[20:36] <Ko-nata> The gnome roars at those words, struggling in the kelp! "Doom?! What are you talking about?" As he continues to speak, he attempts to break the bonds around him! OOC - Opposed grapplin' times.
[20:37] <Shamal> roll 1d20+11
[20:37] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+11 --> [ 1d20=11 ]{22}
[20:37] <Ko-nata> roll 1d20+9
[20:37] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d20+9 --> [ 1d20=1 ]{10}
[20:37] <Seira> "I can see why his society went under," Seira mutters, tossing the helmet up before catching it.
[20:37] <Shamal> "When was the last time you saw another gnome?" the blonde asks innocently.
[20:38] <Ko-nata> But the gnome is held fast and unable to move! As he struggles in vain to escape, "Are you insane! Guaaaaards!" he tries again, screaming.
[20:39] <Ko-nata> OOC - Since Deme aided Shamal, it's now Seira's turn again to do what she wishes.
[20:41] <Seira> "Hmm," Seira ponders, cupping her chin in her hand after setting the helmet down carefully. "If you're right and there are guards, there's no point in resisting and struggling. Just answer our questions and the guards would surely kill us, preserving your knowledge." She shrugs, then. "And if all the other gnomes are long dead, the only thing between you and a painful autopsy is pretty much the same thing." Seira draws Flash of Heaven. "S
[20:41] <Seira> o. Let's talk about these spellgems and where the completed ones are being stored."
[20:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+17 I wanted to roll Diplomacy, too!
[20:41] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+17 I wanted to roll Diplomacy, too! --> [ 1d20=3 ]{20}
[20:50] <Ko-nata> "Grr..." Struggling in vain with his bonds, "I'll never tell you! The secrets are not for human ears! Never! I won't let you go and take them!"
[20:50] <Ko-nata> OOC - Shamal's turn has cycled around.
[20:50] * Seira touches her ears self-consciously. "Human?"
[20:51] <Shamal> "Like we took the Fifth Resort?" Shamal asks, glancing meaningfully at the fancy shield floating around Demedais.
[20:54] <Ko-nata> That finally gets the gnome's attention. He eyes the shield, sputtering incoherently for several seconds. "W-what...that's not possible!"
[20:54] * Demedais nods, moving the shield to hover near the gnome, a bit closer. "No gnomes stood in our way. The only thing we saw that looked like a gnome? Illusion. Your kind has abandoned you and this world, all your works lost as dust in time."
[20:56] <Seira> "Maybe he doesn't know anything. We can probably find all we want on our own." Seira frowns. "All gnomes were evil, right? Slavers, into all the bad stuff? No one cried when they all died?"
[20:57] <Demedais> "He said we had disrupted the creation of spellgems. Such knowledge would be useful to handle that one guy who blew up the roof of the garrison - Irenes, was it?"
[20:57] <Ko-nata> "No...no..." The gnome seems to shiver and shrivel, "No! I refuse to accept it...it cannot be!" But his words sound hollow, without punch or meaning. "Our secrets are mighty! None can stop us!"
[20:57] <Shamal> "But they didn't *all* die," Shamal points out. "I'd rather not leave this mystery unsolved."
[21:01] <Seira> "Oh!" Seira exclaims. "Feast your eyes on this!" She thrusts her hand in the gnome's face, and a small fountain of water shoots into his face, followed with a light glow settling over his diminutive features.
[21:01] <Demedais> "Refusal to accept the truth does not change the truth." Demedais states coldly. "Everything you've made is abandoned, everything you've created stands there, useless. Your society is barely known except in myths and legends."
[21:02] <Ko-nata> "Whgjksldggurg!" The water ruins what he had to say next, as the gnome seems to crumple down. "No...no...no!" But his voice seems even weaker, as you see that his body begins to become transparent. His voice becomes an echoing whisper, "No..."
[21:02] <Shamal> "Oh... a ghost?" Shamal blinks, not having really expected that.
[21:03] <Seira> "Do you think you could tell us about spellgems before you die?" Seira asks curiously. "Shortcuts are much appreciated."
[21:03] * Demedais nods, staying silent.
[21:04] <Ko-nata> With a wink, the gnome vanishes. The room seems to compact, change, shift. All that is here now is a desk with a book on it, the sapphire that Seira removed from the gem pot, and the helmet that was removed from the gnome's head.
[21:05] <Seira> "We should have taken more of the gems," Seira mutters peevishly, going over to the book.
[21:05] <Shamal> "Well... so much for that?" Shamal looks fairly nonplussed, going over to flip open the book on the desk and take a look at its contents.
[21:06] * Demedais eyes the items, and shrugs a bit. "Is an illusionary gem really worth that much?"
[21:06] <Seira> "It could be real for all we know."
[21:06] <Demedais> "True."
[21:07] <Ko-nata> The book looks to be written in gnomish. It looks to be a treatise on spellgems, but it's very complicated and would take some dedicated study.
[21:07] <Shamal> "Hey, its all about spellgems," Shamal smiles and puts the book in her haversack. "This could be really handy." That done, she takes a look over the desk to see if there's anything else on/in it.
[21:07] <Seira> "I should learn that language..." Seira vows, and goes to pick up the gem.
[21:08] <Ko-nata> The desk is plain. It looks somewhat flimsy, almost transient. There is little of note around it, or so it appears.
[21:08] <Shamal> "So, back to the fake-Balmuria, now?" the blonde witch asks her companions.
[21:08] * Seira returns with both gem and helmet, packing them away. "How about breaking down the desk to ensure there are no hidden compartments?" she offers.
[21:09] <Demedais> "I guess we have no choice, do we?" Demedais shrugs. "Not fond of walking around in illusion, but."
[21:09] * Shamal shrugs and makes room for someone manlier than her to perform that task.
[21:09] * Seira examines it for said compartments and the like.
[21:09] <Ko-nata> OOC - Search check.
[21:10] <Seira> OOC: 27
[21:11] <Ko-nata> The desk has little of note.
[21:11] * Shamal feels less spidery after waiting ten minutes for that stunning revelation. "Shall we?" she asks, gesturing to the exit.
[21:12] * Demedais nods and follows Shamal back to illusion land.
[21:12] * Seira has no problems with this plan.
[21:13] <Ko-nata> So you return to the illusory streets of Balmuria. The red sunset seems to linger indefinitely, the treets there still abandoned.
[21:13] <Shamal> "Let's investigate Elle's shop and the temple of Waukeen before going to the garrison?" Shamal suggests, recalling how illusory items they grabbed from that last room became real at the end.
[21:14] <Seira> "You've read my mind," Seira agrees. Before leaving, however, she tries to estimate the apparent age of her building.
[21:14] <Ko-nata> It looks new still, but there is a strange dirtiness to it. Like it hasn't been cleaned in a long time. WEeds are starting to poke up around it.
[21:14] <Demedais> "Sure. I rely on you two to figure out the intricaties of magic." Demedais shrugs, having no real clue how to react to this widespread illusion.
[21:15] * Shamal heads over to the shop next door to Seira's inn.
[21:17] <Ko-nata> It looks abandoned, the door barred over. A few puddles of stagnant water sit near the front door.
[21:17] <Ko-nata> OOC - Strike.
[21:17] <Ko-nata> OOC - You meant the magic shop, right? I just did a mental stupid.
[21:18] <Shamal> OOC: that's what I meant
[21:20] <Ko-nata> Elle's shop is quiet. The door is ajar, silent. There is an excellent view from the hill, several sunken ships lining the harbor, masts sticking up from a watery grave.  The rest of the city just looks quiet, not a soul stirring.
[21:20] * Shamal heads on in and looks around to see what she can loot!
[21:21] <Demedais> "What is this place...?" Demedais says. "A vision of the world if the Gnomish God-King reawakens?"
[21:21] * Seira uses inside knowledge to help Shamal!
[21:22] <Seira> "Or the dragon. Or Malmuth. Or Irenes. Or--"
[21:22] <Shamal> "Too early to speculate. That sign did mention us having a king, which I don't remember voting for," Shamal shrugs as she looks around the shop.
[21:23] <Ko-nata> As you step inside, you see that the shop looks to have been a battleground. The cases are smashed, the floor burnt. One of the back walls is a few puffs of air away from collapsing. The place looks fairly good and picked over on first glance.
[21:24] <Demedais> "On our list of stops... I'd like to see the temple to Helm." Demedais says hesitantly, following the two in.
[21:24] <Seira> "Strange, I would expect to see my place trashed as well. Unless I betrayed everyone and became king," Seira muses, looking around.
[21:25] <Shamal> "That'd be quite a switch," Shamal snorts, looking over Seira's form. "Anyway, I bet the whole city is going to be like this, so we might as well head for the garrison and see what's responsible."
[21:26] * Demedais stares at Seira for a long, long moment before shaking his head. "What Shamal said."
[21:26] <Seira> "I actually would like to examine the temple of Helm's mausoleum, first," Seira interjects.
[21:26] <Seira> But first, she goes into the back to check for any notes and the like.
[21:26] <Shamal> "If you like. It's more or less on the way to the garrison from here, anyway," Shamal shrugs.
[21:27] <Ko-nata> OOC - Search check, Seira. You know the area well, so +5 bonus.
[21:31] <Seira> OOC: 32!
[21:32] <Ko-nata> Tucked away in a little cranny Seira finds a wrapped scroll. It's addressed 'The Crimson Guard or whomever else is may concern.'
[21:33] <Seira> "We have mail!" Seira announces, unrolling it and beginning to read.
[21:36] <Ko-nata> "To whom it may concern: If you read this, you are exploring the ruins of Balmuria or have saved us, but too late. The creeping came too fast to stop effectively - our heroes were away, and the Commander of the garrison was not strong enough. I do not know what it is, but it uses the Commander's body as a vessel. It has begun to take over the city, taking citizens to the garrison, where they vanish. It is a vile, chaotic thing - I intend to
[21:37] <Ko-nata>  I intend to fight it soon. If I fail and you read this, take the proper precautions: It is evil and chaotic tinged and I believe it dislikes water."
[21:37] * Shamal shivers slightly. "Illusion or not, this is hitting eerily close to home."
[21:38] * Seira recoils in shock, the scroll dropping to the ground. "Could this happen, in mere months? An entire city?"
[21:39] <Shamal> "Who knows? I think we should go to the garrison and see how this plays out, though," Shamal suggests.
[21:39] * Demedais closes his eyes, wincing. "I don't know. This whole thing seems far too bizarre to ever be real." With that, he uses his powers to try and detect anything chaotic in the vicinity!
[21:39] * Seira picks up the scroll carefully, placing it away. "With a quick stop to the crypt on the way. I want to confirm something with my own eyes."
[21:40] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais nods. "The air is latently corrupt - and the direction of the garrison more so."
[21:40] * Seira leads the way to the mausoleum!
[21:40] <Ko-nata> roll 1d100
[21:40] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=17 ]{17}
[21:41] <Ko-nata> The way is quiet, abandoned. On reaching the masoleum, you see that it is quiet as well. The grass around it is overgrown and wild, weeping lillies and dandilions beginning to grow.
[21:42] <Seira> "Remember the barrier it had below, keeping things contained?" Seira asks Shamal.
[21:42] * Shamal nods to Seira. "Think we'll find something interesting in the facsimile?"
[21:43] * Demedais detects chaos again, looking around cautiously.
[21:43] <Seira> "Yes. A relic, information, confirmation. Each would hold value."
[21:43] <Shamal> "Well, let's go have a look, then," Shamal nods, starting inside.
[21:44] <Ko-nata> There is faint chaos in the air. But it seems very thin around here, especially inside of the tomb.
[21:45] <Demedais> "...odd. This place seems less affected than most." Demedais says as he follows Shamal.
[21:45] <Seira> "Helm is assosiated with Law, isn't he?"
[21:46] <Demedais> "Indeed. Which means that perhaps the temple was safer ground."
[21:46] <Ko-nata> Inside, you find that the coffins are long and spread out, at peace and rest. The stairs going up and down are without incident. Down the stairs you go to the sealed room. The door is ajar, notably.
[21:47] <Seira> "There is a notable change, already."
[21:47] <Demedais> "Indeed." Holy symbol at the ready, Demedais opens the door further with the tip of his blade.
[21:48] <Ko-nata> Inside are peaceful coffins at rest. A few dozen, including several that look new. But there is a person in here - Father Ceiar waits patiently, smiling at Demedais as he enters, standing just inside. He looks tired, weary but somehow happy.
[21:49] <Seira> "Are you alive or another ghost?" Seira asks him bluntly. "Also, are you evil?"
[21:49] <Demedais> "Father... Ceiar?" Demedais asks weakly.
[21:50] <Ko-nata> "I'm alive nor dead." He speaks with a calmness that belies his situation, gentleness. "What life does an illusion have, even granted awareness? It seems that in this place, perhaps a little bit."
[21:50] <Ko-nata> *I'm not alive or dead
[21:50] <Seira> "Please answer the evil part, too."
[21:52] <Demedais> "...An illusion?" Demedais croaks out. "An illusion of what's happening in Balmuria? Or an illusion of another sort?"
[21:52] * Shamal hangs back and lets Demedais handle this, since he knows the real Father Ceiar best.
[21:53] <Ko-nata> "Does it matter?" Father Ceiar asks back plainly. "I remember the life of Ceiar, the real times before the weave the magic of this place has wrought, and then all that happened here. Everything here is an illusion." So he sits, shaking his head, "I do not understand it. I was created merely an hour ago if that, but yet I remember everything. Is it not strange?" He smiles calmly at this, peaceable.
[21:53] <Ko-nata> "But," He smiles more, "I do have a message for you. From someone ahead, whom watches."
[21:54] <Demedais> "...Indeed, Father." Demedais says, attempting to compose himself. "What is the message? And... what has happened here?"
[21:55] <Ko-nata> "That since the dragon's gate has been opened from the other side, there is little need to battle at the garrison, unless you wish to obtain riches or magic. PAst the main gate of Balmuria leads you to the guardian, whom awaits you."
[21:56] <Demedais> "'The guardian?'" Demedais inquires. "What is he? And what possessed the Commander?"
[21:56] <Shamal> "Dragon's gate?" Shamal can't help but question that juicy item.
[21:58] <Ko-nata> "The entrance to Seira's inn. What was created here is a possessing force of chaos. It lives in the illusion of Commander Oberuth's body."He answers this, going to sit. "There are the bodies of the rest of the clergy of Helm in this town, but I believe that my original design was changed, for I remember little of them."
[21:59] <Seira> "You're saying I created it?"
[22:01] * Demedais refuses to look at the bodies, attempting to keep himself focused. "So... wait. We should go to the front gate of the town and not the garrison..." Demedais pauses, eyes tightly clenched, waiting for the answer to Seira's question.
[22:02] <Ko-nata> "I believe thatthe guardian may have created this," Ceiar ponders as if thinking, "Is there any reason that you would attract something chaotic?" At Demedais's words, the illusion nods again. "The entrance to this place is at the gate, but I believe you are going backwards towards the guardian instead of away from it. You can fighta tthe garrison if you wish or leave it be."
[22:03] <Seira> "What if we just approach the guardian first?"
[22:04] <Ko-nata> "Then you will go to the guardian as you wish. After all...this is just an illusion. Do you care of the fate ofan illusion of Balmuria?"
[22:05] <Seira> "I do, if it lets us learn more to avoid it."
[22:05] <Shamal> "What was that you said earlier about riches and magic?" Shamal asks pointedly.
[22:05] <Demedais> "The ghost we just fre.... no, this illusion was created before we dealt with it." Demedais ponders. "The only thing I could think of is the Gnome God-King..." He looks up sharply at the illusion Ceiar. "Knowing what happened here could help us determine how to protect the real one.... if this isn't just some twisted reality as is."
[22:07] <Ko-nata> "There are prizes to claim for defeating the obsticles in front of you." The illusion seems to think several seconds, "Yes, that feels very correct to say. Ways of power ahead. I do not know of beyond this illusion, but I do know this place's guardian waits for you.""
[22:08] * Demedais bows his head, lost in thought.
[22:08] <Seira> "Let's try and take on the garrison, then," Seira suggests. "If nothing else, we'll see the opposition's moves without giving anything away to our real enemies we are yet to face."
[22:09] <Shamal> "Finding items to benefit Balmuria was our purpose in coming here," Shamal nods to Seira. "Nothing ventured nothing gained."
[22:11] * Demedais slowly nods, looking directly at Father Ceiar. "What they say is true. Furthermore, dissembling the theoretical creator of such destruction... It must be done."
[22:11] <Ko-nata> "Then I wish you well ahead. I believe other functions and illusions have been placed around town to aid you and may not have been changed as I was," Ceiar offers helpfully. "The temple has information to lead you here, did you find taht?"
[22:12] <Demedais> "No. But we will explore the city and the temple, now that we know it is not completely empty. Thank you, Father." Demedais bows.
[22:14] * Demedais hesitates, then turns to the other two. "I... have a few more questions I would like to ask in private. If you two want to meet me at the temple, I will be right behind you."
[22:15] <Shamal> "Very well, but be careful," Shamal nods, backing away and heading out to the actual temple itself.
[22:16] * Demedais nods. "I will be."
[22:16] * Seira follows, intent on visiting Waukeen's temple afterwards.
[22:17] <Ko-nata> So the two exit, leaving Demedais alone with the illusion of Father Ceiar...
[22:18] * Demedais turns back to the illusion of Ceiar for a second, before his eyes drift to the coffins. "How... did they die? I presume the Commander killed them, but how... How did they..."
[22:19] <Ko-nata> "Protecting the people," Father Ceiar answers, looking to the coffins.
[22:20] * Demedais falls silent for a minute, looking at the coffins as well. "Father... is there anything I can do for you? Any way... I can free you?"
[22:22] <Ko-nata> "I'm an illusion of Father Ceiar, only aware since the Guardian chose to make me so." He seems unconcerned, "Do not worry for me."
[22:24] <Demedais> "I cannot but worry." Demedais replies, a hint of anger in his voice. "I... am dutybound to do what I would here as I would in reality, I feel." Looking up at the Father, "I can't leave you here like this... but..." Almost crying at this point. "Do I have any way I can free you?: Any way to dispel this nighmare?"
[22:26] <Ko-nata> "Ask the guardian." Father Ceiar speaks at last, smiling as he comes over and touches Demedais's shoulder. "Do not weep for me, I am only a figment of magic."
[22:27] <Demedais> "... I will do that." Demedais nods sadly. "If I could but do more... but. Thank you, Father." With that, he embraces the illusion before stepping out, closing the door behind him.
[22:27] <Demedais> OOC: Going to the temple from here.
[22:28] <Ko-nata> The party walks the quiet streets, coming to the temple. The doors have been left open, the red sunset lingering still. It is quiet here.
[22:29] * Shamal heads on inside!
[22:29] * Demedais follows the group slowly, still a bit numb from that.
[22:31] <Ko-nata> The inside of the temple is plain. The altar of Helm is forgotten, unkept and unworshipped. IT just looks...abandoned at first glance.
[22:31] <Shamal> "Remember, none of this is real, Demedais. Don't let it get to you so much," Shamal puts a comforting hand on the paladin's shoulder upon seeing how he looks. "But what we're doing here could help the real Balmuria a great deal."
[22:32] <Seira> "Yep. No way I'm letting the Commander get corrupted like that," Seira chimes in.
[22:32] <Demedais> "...I know. But..." Unable to figure out the words, Demedais stays silent, eyeing the altar with a grim irritation.
[22:33] <Seira> "Check your room for anything out of the ordinary?" she proposes.
[22:34] <Ko-nata> The altar looks abandoned on a glance. Just left behind and left to rot over time.
[22:35] * Demedais nods silently. "Seira, Shamal, look closely around everywhere else. Especially the altar - something tells me the priests would have tried to hide a message there, trusting to Helm to protect it." he requests before going to search his room, giving the other rooms on the way a glance over.
[22:35] * Shamal nods and goes to search as Demedais requested.
[22:35] * Seira doesn't mind searching the altar.
[22:38] <Ko-nata> OOC - General search check, Deme. You knwo the area so +5 bonus. Seira and Shamal, search the altar if you like, check it up.
[22:38] <Shamal> roll 1d20+4
[22:38] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+4 --> [ 1d20=5 ]{9}
[22:38] <Seira> roll 1d20+7
[22:38] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+7 --> [ 1d20=7 ]{14}
[22:39] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
[22:39] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d20+1 --> [ 1d20=17 ]{18}
[22:39] <Demedais> OOC: 23, right, search bonus.
[22:41] <Ko-nata> Demedais finds some notes hidden in the high priests room. "I will lay down our last reserves in our eternal resting home. The last of usbesides myself will watch over us with Helm's wisdom."
[22:41] * Demedais nods, and takes the notes back with him to Seira and Shamal.
[22:42] <Seira> "Waukeen, now?"
[22:42] <Demedais> "Probably a good idea."
[22:42] * Seira leads the way this time.
[22:43] <Ko-nata> roll 1d100
[22:43] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=9 ]{9}
[22:44] <Ko-nata> The trip to the temple is without incident. On reaching it, you findthe formerly grand place silent as a ghost, dead.
[22:45] * Seira decides to check it anyway, following the pattern Demedais used.
[22:46] * Demedais nods and follows her in. "Check any place of great import to Waukeen, Seira, as well as the quarters of your head priest. What do you want us to do?"
[22:46] <Seira> "Check the altar, I suppose."
[22:47] * Shamal helps Seira by following her around and leaning over her shoulder while saying stuff like, "Did you check over there?" and "Oooh, what's that?" and "Hey, look at that thing!" and "You know how it's always in the last place you look?" as she searches.
[22:47] <Shamal> roll 1d20+4 aid another for Seira
[22:47] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+4 aid another for Seira --> [ 1d20=12 ]{16}
[22:47] <Demedais> "Alright." Demedais heads to the altar, examining it for anything of import.
[22:47] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 search altar?
[22:47] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d20+1 search altar? --> [ 1d20=13 ]{14}
[22:47] <Seira> roll 1d20+14
[22:47] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+14 --> [ 1d20=1 ]{15}
[22:50] <Ko-nata> Despite their best efforts, the party finds little of note here beyond one thing. In the high priests bedroom, you find a pendant curled up in a ball of cloth.
[22:50] * Seira examines the pendant in question.
[22:52] <Ko-nata> It's a plain iron pendant, very unappealing to look at. It looks well worn but not worn down at all despite it.
[22:53] * Seira checks whether it holds any pictures inside.
[22:53] <Ko-nata> It does not.
[22:53] * Seira pockets it with a shrug. "I'll ask the high priest about it when we get back," she says. "What now? The garrison, or a chat with the guardian, first?"
[22:54] <Shamal> "Garrison. I'd rather see this through before dealing with the guardian," Shamal votes.
[22:54] <Demedais> "Shamal's house." Demedais responds. "There might be something left there. The garrison works too, but..."
[22:55] <Seira> "Alright. We better use that wand of your a few times first, though." She glances at Demedais at his words. "It's outside the city gates, I'm afraid."
[22:55] * Shamal blinks. "Um... if you want, I suppose. Awfully forward of you, though..." she mumbles.
[22:55] * Shamal leads the way out of the temple and straight down the road to the gates.
[22:55] <Seira> "Yes, come to think of it, even I haven't been there...."
[22:56] <Demedais> "It is? Very well. And... Shamal!" Demedais calls out. "I only say it because someone might think to leave something there for you to find! But... if it's outside the gates, let's go deal with the garrison first."
[22:57] <Shamal> "I could probably afford a place in the city, now, but moving's such trouble..." Shamal laughs a little nervously, taking out her wand and waving it over Demedais. "But okay, to the garrison, then. And we'd best be ready for trouble, there."
[22:57] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[22:57] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d8+1 --> [ 1d8=1 ]{2}
[22:57] <Shamal> And again!
[22:57] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[22:57] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d8+1 --> [ 1d8=7 ]{8}
[22:58] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[22:58] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d8+1 --> [ 1d8=1 ]{2}
[22:58] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[22:58] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d8+1 --> [ 1d8=2 ]{3}
[22:58] * Shamal gives the wand a bit of a shake after that uninspired display. "I think I'm wearing it out with all the use its getting, today..."
[22:58] <Shamal> Once more for luck!
[22:58] <Shamal> roll 1d8+1
[22:58] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d8+1 --> [ 1d8=2 ]{3}
[22:59] <Shamal> "Yes, I think it's trying to say its had enough for today."
[23:00] <Demedais> "Thank you for it, though!" Demedais says a bit more cheerfully.
[23:00] <Ko-nata> So the party approaches the garrison. The streets are dead as they approach, slowly coming into sight of it. Abandoned and silent, or so it appears on first galnce...
[23:01] * Seira casts Protection from Evil once the garrison becomes visible.
[23:03] * Shamal has a few spells to cast! "Mielikki, please ward this warrior against all evil," she murmurs, tapping Demedais. Following that up, she incants another spell that causes her to multiply!
[23:03] <Shamal> roll 1d4+2
[23:03] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d4+2 --> [ 1d4=2 ]{4}
[23:03] <Demedais> "It fears water, so the Wall of Boiling Water spell should prove useful..." Demedais muses.
[23:04] <Ko-nata> So the party prepares, as the garrison looms. In the crimson sunset, you see that the roof of the garrison is even fortified how you remember it.
[23:04] <Shamal> Are there people manning the fortifications?
[23:04] <Ko-nata> OOC - Spot check.
[23:05] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10
[23:05] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+10 --> [ 1d20=2 ]{12}
[23:05] <Ko-nata> Shamal does not see anything of note on the roof.
[23:06] <Seira> roll 1d20+1
[23:06] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+1 --> [ 1d20=2 ]{3}
[23:06] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 oh, sure, why not.
[23:06] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d20+1 oh, sure, why not. --> [ 1d20=3 ]{4}
[23:06] <Ko-nata> Seira also does not see anything of note on the roof. Nor does Demedais, in an exciting sweep of failure.
[23:09] * Demedais shrugs and proceeds into the garrison, immediately using Detect Chaos when he gets inside to try and find the source!
[23:11] <Ko-nata> As Demedais approaches, there is a blur from the roof! A figure leaps down in a blur, a  sword lashing at Demedais in mere seconds!
[23:11] <Ko-nata> roll 1d20+15
[23:11] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d20+15 --> [ 1d20=8 ]{23}
[23:12] <Ko-nata> OOC - What's your AC, Deme?
[23:12] <Demedais> OOC: 22, unless any of the bee poison's worn off!
[23:12] <Shamal> OOC: +2 vs evil!
[23:12] <Demedais> OOC: Assuming it is evil and not just Stronger-hallucinated-evil.
[23:13] <Ko-nata> roll 1d6
[23:13] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d6 --> [ 1d6=2 ]{2}
[23:14] <Ko-nata> Demedais is caught unaware! He is unable to react fast enough, the blade arcing for his neck! But at the last moment, a ward appears around him, a potent magic previously cast! It's just enough to deflect the blade, making the figure fall back and land a few feet away. Commander Oberuth begins to pick himself up, breastplate and buckler noted in addition to his sword - a purple tinged longsword. "Finaaaaaallly home?" he carols.
[23:15] <Shamal> "This isn't our home... Sir," Shamal replies dubiously, eyeing 'Obureth' with suspicion.
[23:16] * Seira gasps, unwilling to believe this even as the evidence is before her. "Sir, please stop this! There is no reason for us to fight!"
[23:16] <Ko-nata> His face is dead pale, his eyes glittering like a spread of brown stones polished too long. "Ooooooh, I think it is," he sneers back, sword at the ready, "After all, you're the heroes of Balmuria, throwing around magic like it's water!" His face turns nasty, vicious. "Running off to the corners of the world on wings of enchantment?"
[23:16] <Demedais> "Hi, illusion Oberuth." Demedais responds. "How's possession treating you?"
[23:17] <Seira> "You are always welcome to join us, Sir!"
[23:18] <Ko-nata> "Oh, it's good! I feeeell better than I have!" He looks on, licking his lips as he stares, "Everything I did, such a good warmup. This is so much nicer!"
[23:19] <Ko-nata> Looking at Seira in intense disdain, "Oh, I'll remember that the next time you're babbling about magic," he growls, "Gnomes this or dweomers that."
[23:20] <Seira> "Is that really how you feel, Sir?" Seira asks, a neutral mask sliding over her face.
[23:20] * Demedais eyes Seira. "As Shamal told me, so I tell you - remember this is illusion, not real. But do extend that invite to Oberuth when we return, he could use the break." Turning back to Oberuth, "Glad to hear you sound nothing like usual, sir!" Deme prepares his sword and himself...
[23:21] <Seira> "And as your priest told you, the illusion might hold elements of the original," she responds, shaking lightly.
[23:22] <Ko-nata> "Why yes, I love being treated like an inept child," he sneers back at Seira, sword pointed at her. "Then..."
[23:22] <Shamal> "I see nothing of Hellman Obureth in this facade," Shamal shakes her head. Cutting off his words as she raises her hands up, "Let's end this."
[23:22] <Ko-nata> OOC - Initaitive, then.
[23:22] <Shamal> roll 1d20+1
[23:22] <Misukibot> Shamal rolled 1d20+1 --> [ 1d20=4 ]{5}
[23:22] <Seira> roll 1d20+5 you'll die
[23:22] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+5 you'll die --> [ 1d20=1 ]{6}
[23:22] <Ko-nata> roll 1d20+2
[23:22] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d20+2 --> [ 1d20=11 ]{13}
[23:23] <Demedais> roll 1d20-2 ....CAN I GET THE FIRST MOVE?!?
[23:23] <Misukibot> Demedais rolled 1d20-2 ....CAN I GET THE FIRST MOVE?!? --> [ 1d20=5 ]{3}
[23:23] * Ko-nata changes topic to 'Remember to make Puk'lor, Gourash, and Keylin roll will saves against searing agony when they go into the shop |  Oberuth>Seira>Shamal>Deme'
[23:24] <Ko-nata> Lashing out with a sudden speed, Oberuth charges at Shamal! "I'm sick of seeing your fake kind face," he bellows, lashing out at her with a charging thrust!
[23:24] <Ko-nata> roll 1d20+17
[23:24] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d20+17 --> [ 1d20=5 ]{22}
[23:24] <Shamal> OOC: there are 5 of me!
[23:24] <Ko-nata> OOC - Er, -2 since I forgot he already had a charge last round. 20, that hit?
[23:24] <Shamal> OOC: It beats my AC
[23:25] <Ko-nata> roll 1d8+2d6+10
[23:25] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d8+2d6+10 --> [ 1d8=2 2d6=7 ]{19}
[23:25] <Shamal> OOC: Dude. Mirror Image. Does he have true sight?
[23:25] <Ko-nata> OOC: Oh, my fault. I keep forgetting that.
[23:25] <Ko-nata> roll 1d5 1=hit and Yezrutting it up.
[23:25] <Misukibot> Ko-nata rolled 1d5 1=hit and Yezrutting it up. --> [ 1d5=2 ]{2}
[23:26] <Ko-nata> But the potent thrust only tears apart a fake Shamal, rending her into nothingness! OOC - Seira.
[23:26] <Seira> "Once I meet the real you, we will have words, Sir," Seira says coldly, as a pair of arrows are sent flying into the man.
[23:26] <Seira> roll 1d20+5 (pa 4)
[23:26] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+5 (pa 4) --> [ 1d20=3 ]{8}
[23:27] <Seira> roll 1d20+5 (pa 4)
[23:27] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d20+5 (pa 4) --> [ 1d20=10 ]{15}
[23:27] <Ko-nata> OOC - Second hits.
[23:27] <Seira> roll 1d8+9
[23:27] <Misukibot> Seira rolled 1d8+9 --> [ 1d8=5 ]{14}

[20:04] * Infinite_Ko_Loop changes topic to 'Remember to make Puk'lor, Gourash, and Keylin roll will saves against searing agony when they go into the shop |  Oberuth>Seira>Shamal>Deme'
[20:04] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Two arrows whizz by, one striking the Commander's leg! It's a minor wound, only slowing him down a little! OOC - Shamal.
* Retrieving #dunes modes...
[20:06] * Infinite_Ko_Loop changes topic to 'Oberuth>Seira>Shamal>Deme'
[20:07] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-514f71a7.l4.c3.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[20:07] * Shamal (WinNT@user-514f71a7.l4.c3.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Ebiris))
[20:07] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[20:07] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
[20:08] <Shamal> "Well, you won't have to see anything at all, now," Shamal promises, stepping back a few feet from the commander before she tosses some ground mica into the air over him which then settles down in a glittering and blinding mist, carefully aimed to catch Obureth at the edge of the effect while missing the party!
[20:08] <Shamal> OOC: Glitterdust. DC 18 will save or blinded
[20:08] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Caster level check.
[20:09] <Shamal> roll 1d20+6 Glitterdust doesn't allow SR, btw
[20:09] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+6 Glitterdust doesn't allow SR, btw and gets 18."12 [1d20=12]
[20:09] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Okay, then it's moot anyway.
[20:10] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+4
[20:10] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+4 and gets 20."12 [1d20=16]
[20:11] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> As the glittering dust settles down, Commander Oberuth sparkles! Yet his eyes stay clear, squinted but still working as he waves his sword in a defensive arc! "Like hell if I'll lose to THAT," he says, eyes focused on Shamal! OOC - Demedais.
[20:13] * Dracos (~Hate@adsl-69-106-234-13.dsl.pltn13.pacbell.net) has left #dunes (Leaving)
[20:15] * Merc (~kazaana@host-206-54-196-170.entouch.net) has left #dunes
[20:17] <Demedais> "Shut up, illusion! Dispel thineself!" Demedais snarles as he steps in behind the illusion and unleashes a smiting blow, followed by a standard hit and a shield smash!
[20:17] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 (4 PA, Smite)
[20:17] <Demedais> roll 1d20+2 (4 PA)
[20:17] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 (SHIELD HYPE)
[20:17] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+10 (4 PA, Smite) and gets 21."12 [1d20=11]
[20:17] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+2 (4 PA) and gets 18."12 [1d20=16]
[20:17] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 (SHIELD HYPE) and gets 21."12 [1d20=10]
[20:17] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Three hits.
[20:18] <Demedais> roll 4d6+1d10+40
[20:18] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 4d6+1d10+40 and gets 60."12 [4d6=5, 3, 4, 1][1d10=7]
[20:20] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Demedais unleashes his full fury! Rushing in, his blade slices into Oberuth, glowing with the power of God! The first blow rocks him visibly, cutting into his flesh and making his pale cheeks turn purple! As he screams, the second backhanded blow comes, a strike with the blade into his stomach! Doubled over, a following shot with the floating Fifth Resort breaks his nose, sending him wobbling back in disarray! He stumbles back towar
[20:20] <Infinite_Ko_Loop>  He stumbles back towards the doors of the garrison, as, "Ugh....basharth..." The voice that comes otu of Oberuth's mouth isn't quite his own, sounding oily and chitterish, like a thousand oildrops on the street. (More)
[20:22] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Half kneeling from the vicious blows, Oberuth simply hits on the door! Those doors open wide, two men coming out. They have the same dead pale cheeks and eyes like broken, too shiny brown rocks. Wedge and Biggs both brandish spears, advancing out in a defensive line ahead of the Commander! (More)
[20:23] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Kill them..." Oberuth breathes out, holding his bleeding stomach with his free hand. The two seem to obey, nodding as Biggs eyes Shamal.
[20:23] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Seira.
[20:23] <Seira> "You're so sparkly, Sir," Seira comments, an arm stretching towards the phantasm as she ignores the appearance of the flunkies. "But all this blood ill-suits you. May this make you nice and clean." Water crushes down on the Commander and the pair of guards, over four dozen liters of it, while a fountain sprouts from below to kiss the downpour gently.
[20:24] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - They're getting reflex saves in this particular case since they want to avoid that water like all fuck and it's essentially an offensive spell on them.
[20:25] <Seira> OOC: Sure, but it's an area effect so they should get half damage or something
[20:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+6
[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+6 and gets 20."12 [1d20=14]
[20:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - They are.
[20:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+2
[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+2 and gets 8."12 [1d20=6]
[20:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+2
[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d20+2 and gets 6."12 [1d20=4]
[20:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - What would your theoretical DC be here?
[20:26] <Seira> OOC: 14, I'd say, and not theoretical
[20:26] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC: Roll 4d6 acid damage.
[20:26] <Seira> roll 4d6
[20:26] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 4d6 and gets 15."12 [4d6=2, 6, 4, 3]
[20:27] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The water splashes around! It touches there skin, sizzling like foul acid! The screams from the three suggest it hurts them, flesh turning dead purple on contact with it, rivulets of pale liquid trickling out from burnt cuts that break open on their skin! Oberuth is staggered again, gasping for air, as Wedge and Biggs are badly maimed, if still up!
[20:27] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Shamal.
[20:28] <Seira> "What was so strong that it warped your mind, Sir?" Seira asks, seeming angry now as the purple skin is revealed.
[20:28] <Shamal> Not having any offensive spells of her own to use at the moment, Shamal pulls up her wand of magic missiles and fires it, a single missile for each of them! "They were warped from the start, only wearing those forms to deceive us," she notes unhappily.
[20:29] <Shamal> roll 1d4+1 Obureth
[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d4+1 Obureth and gets 3."12 [1d4=2]
[20:29] <Shamal> roll 1d4+1 Biggs
[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d4+1 Biggs and gets 5."12 [1d4=4]
[20:29] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Shut...up..." Oberuth growls, as his face flakes, purple replacing white. "Damn your magic!"
[20:29] <Shamal> roll 1d4+1 Wedge
[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d4+1 Wedge and gets 2."12 [1d4=1]
[20:29] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Caster level check for the Oberuth missile.
[20:29] <Shamal> roll 1d20+5
[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+5 and gets 15."12 [1d20=10]
[20:29] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Passed.
[20:30] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The three missiles fly! Wedge and Biggs go down, ample amounts of purple goo fleeing their bodies! They break apart at this, loose chunks of flesh now that the strange goo runs like water in the streets! The Commander is struck one more, gritting his teeth but alive!
[20:30] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Demedais.
[20:31] <Seira> "Finish him!"
[20:32] <Demedais> "Right." Demedais nods as he charges the false commander, sword ready to unleash one more smiting stroke upon him!
[20:32] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 (6 PA, Smite)
[20:32] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+10 (6 PA, Smite) and gets 22."12 [1d20=12]
[20:32] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Hit.
[20:32] <Demedais> roll 2d6+23
[20:32] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 2d6+23 and gets 30."12 [2d6=5, 2]
[20:34] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The charge passes over the disinegrating bodies of Wedge and Biggs, going right for Commander Oberuth! The blow goes right into his chest, the end of his blade glowing with Helm's power, even as it pushes through out of his back! The Commander begins to try and speak, but only a coughing follows as he slumps over. Purple begins to run out from his body, form collapsing. As itdoes, "Damn...you...."
[20:36] * Seira heads over to the Commander figment and kicks at him.
[20:36] <Demedais> "Duty... without hesitation... without regret." Demedais murmurs as he withdraws his blade quickly from the illusion's body and steps away. "Thank you... illusion Ceiar, heart of the real Ceiar, for reminding me of this."
[20:36] * Sierra_Devourer is now known as El-Cideon
[20:36] <Shamal> "You are the damned one," Shamal shakes her head sadly at the display. "Horrible thing..."
[20:36] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> What little is left is kicked. It's falling apart, leaking out purple fluid. His breastplate, buckler and sword remain, even soaked in the strange fluid.
[20:36] <Seira> "The magic," Seira says, raising an eyebrow.
[20:37] <Seira> "At least that priest figment was right about that."
[20:37] * Demedais nods. "Shall we take this stuff along with us? After cleaning it off, of course - the purple ooze may be part of what corrupted them..."
[20:37] <Shamal> Taking Seira's hint, Shamal casts detect magic. "Seira should be able to clean them easily."
[20:37] <Seira> "Yes. To you both." She helpfully clears it up, too, by directing the summoned water in a gentle stream away.
[20:38] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The breastplate and buckler radiate faint magic, the sword moderate. To Seira's command, water bathes the equipment. It seems to dissolve the purple goo with ease, washing it away like dirt from a child's body on the evening bath.
[20:38] <Seira> "Demedais, are any of them chaotic in nature?"
[20:38] <Demedais> "Hold on." Demedais uses detect magic once the goo's gone, so as not to influence the results.
[20:38] <Shamal> OOC: taking 10 for 25 spellcraft on all of them
[20:39] <Demedais> OOC: *detect chaos. Woo I r good at typing.
[20:39] <Demedais> "The breastplate does. The buckler and sword do not." Demedais reports dutifully.
[20:40] <Shamal> "We can stick them all in the haversack to identify when we get home," Shamal offers, proceeding to stow the items away. "Let's look around here a bit before heading out the gates?"
[20:41] <Seira> "Don't let our paladin touch the chaotic one, and we'll be okay," Seira agrees. "I think we should start with the Commander's office."
[20:41] <Demedais> "Right. Oberuth's room, the storage rooms, all that. See what can be found." A thought strikes Demedais. "I.... hope Stronger didn't end up the same way as these."
[20:41] <Shamal> "No one 'ended up' like this, Demedais," Shamal tells the paladin. "They were all created this way, as part of the whole facsimile."
[20:42] <Demedais> "That's what I meant." Demedais nods. "My apologies, I still sometimes consider this a reality, even if it isn't actually real."
[20:42] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Searching, you guys? Make your checks or take ten/twenty as you wish.
[20:42] <Shamal> roll 1d20+4 to aid Seira
[20:42] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+4 to aid Seira and gets 22."12 [1d20=18]
[20:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 can I help Seira too?!?
[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 can I help Seira too?!? and gets 12."12 [1d20=11]
[20:44] <Seira> roll 1d20+11
[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+11 and gets 12."12 [1d20=1]
[20:45] * Rei-chan (Rei-chan@user-514f71a7.l4.c3.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[20:45] * Shamal sets mode: +v Rei-chan
[20:45] * Infinite_Ko_Loop sets mode: -v Hatbot
[20:45] <Seira> OOC: Let's retry and take 10 for 21
[20:46] <Demedais> OOC: Taking 10 for an assist 11! (as non-fond as I am of taking 10...)
[20:47] <Shamal> OOC: I also check the pendant Seira found earlier for magic and take 10 on my spellcraft
[20:47] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> So the party searches. When they go to the mess hall, they stumble on IT. The rough tables are gone, instead the floor dug up. Here, thirty feet wide and sixty feet long, is a great hole of purple goo. You see body parts sticking out of it, the entire thing stirring and writhing faintly. IT seems to never settle, faces occasionally being seen on the surface. Faces you can almost reconize. OOC - We'll do that in PM real quick, Shamal
[20:48] <Shamal> "Seira... water, please?" Shamal asks, looking faintly sick as she backs away from the pit.
[20:49] * Seira waves her hand angrily, and a tsunami comes on its wake.
[20:49] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+8
[20:49] <Rei-chan> 6,0Infinite_Ko_Loop rolled :6,0 1d20+8 --> 6,0[ 1d20=15 ]4,0{23}
[20:50] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The pool writhes as water is splashed on! It makes the goop steam, screams of dozens of people heard. But the water has good effect, beginning to dissolve the gloop!
[20:50] <Seira> "I can do this all day," Seira declares, but then she glances at Demedais. "Want to see whether your gem's effect also works?"
[20:51] <Shamal> "Better to save that for if we get into trouble," Shamal suggests. "If create water does the job..."
[20:52] <Seira> "I think we are past the trouble, myself," Seira responds, sending another tidal wave to battle at the beast. "The guardian should be at the entrance."
[20:52] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d20+8
[20:52] <Rei-chan> 6,0Infinite_Ko_Loop rolled :6,0 1d20+8 --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{20}
[20:52] <Shamal> "And what if we need to battle said guardian?" Shamal points out. "It is responsible for this, after all."
[20:52] * Demedais nods to Shamal. "Yeah, I'll hold back, especially since it's harder to control its effects in... a more fluid setting."
[20:52] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The writhing continues, but the goo seems to be melting away. In short order it loses coherency, becoming plain liquid and then fading away under the watery torment. Save for a few body parts floating in it, remains left behind.
[20:53] <Seira> "I thought it was a messanger, like the one from Helm," Seira responds thoughtfully. "Do you really feel we would have to battle him? This could be just to caution and teach us of the future, so we wouldn't make the same mistakes."
[20:54] <Shamal> "A harsh lesson, then," Shamal comments, frowning. "You may be right, but since we don't know for sure, it's better safe than sorry."
[20:55] * Seira takes a brief breather, and continues with two more waves, following this pattern to see whether she still gets tired in the end.
[20:55] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Seira does feel a little tired as she finishes the job, but a break helps a lot. The purple good is mostly dissolved, ruined by simple water.
[20:55] <Shamal> With that done, Shamal is ready to move on. "Shall we?" she asks, starting to leave.
[20:56] * Seira cleans up the place after another rest, and checks to see whether anything is left behind.
[20:57] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - In the pit or just around in general?
[20:58] <Seira> OOC: In the shining-clean pit
[20:58] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> As Seira peeks in, there seem to be some loose coins and valuables like bracelets and necklaces sprinkled in.
[20:58] * Demedais waits on Seira, gesturing for Shamal to wait for a minute.
[20:59] * Shamal is content to wait.
[20:59] <Seira> Being thorough, Seira decides to gather the funds, taking some for Elle's sake as well.
[21:02] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> So the party finishes the search. You find Commander Oberuth's office half wrecked, parts of thew all ruined. However, on searching, you do find a few records. A report mentions the Crimson Guard going to investigate underwater ruins, and a day or two passes. Then there is a short gap, and then Oberuth's writing changes. It talks of gathering the people, crushing resistance and revenge. It mentions a battle at the gate in particular
[21:02] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> particular in passing a few times, but in a good way, like he 'won'.
[21:03] <Seira> "We are under a harsh time limit, then," Seira says, nodding to herself. "We are to leave today, no matter what."
[21:04] <Demedais> "Agreed." Demedaisn nods.
[21:05] <Shamal> "That was our plan, anyway," Shamal agrees. "For all that I'm dubious about the validity of this situation."
[21:05] <Seira> "I suppose it all depends on what we are to encounter at the gate," Seira says with a shrug, pocketing the records and proceeding towards it.
[21:06] * Shamal follows Seira onwards to their destination.
[21:06] <Demedais> "I'm with you, but this does expose the risk we take when we leave Balmuria like this." Demedais notes. "We cannot let ourselves be penned up in there, but we also cannot leave it constantly. A quagmire of a quandary."
[21:06] * Demedais nods solemnly and follows Seira and Shamal to the being at the gate, whatever it is.
[21:07] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> At the gate you find it is half ruined. The walls around it are dented, the streets cratered. But the basic gate is intact, the path leading on and away. But standing a few feet out of town, instead of the full path, is a plain single door.
[21:08] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> It is a door of unembossed stone, with a level to pull it open if one wishes.
[21:08] <Shamal> Once out of the gate, Shamal peers to the left to see if the houses outside of town have been replicated.
[21:09] * Seira examines it for traps, meanwhile.
[21:09] <Seira> roll 1d20+7 hilarity
[21:09] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+7 1,0hilarity --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{26}
[21:10] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Shamal sees that everything past a few feet out of the gate is indistinct and hazy.
[21:11] * Demedais looks at the door, waiting for Seira to comment on it.
[21:11] <Shamal> Ah, well. She didn't want to see her fake house, anyway.
[21:11] * Seira comments quite a bit, none of it useful while she keeps on looking. "Ah. Magical trap. Well, there goes the benevolent helper theory, I suppose."
[21:12] <Seira> "Stand back and watch me explode," she requests, acquiring magely sight and approaching the trap once more.
[21:12] <Shamal> "Good luck," Shamal opines, keeping back a safe distance.
[21:13] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 spellcraft
[21:13] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+12 1,0spellcraft --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{31}
[21:13] * Demedais nods and stands back. She knows magic...
[21:14] <Demedais> "Seira. If it cannot be disabled, allow me to open it. I am the most durable here - thus the most likely to be able to take the trap." Demedais ventures.
[21:14] * Seira is in no hurry, working on the trap in peace. "Underestimate me not, young grasshopper," she says grandly.
[21:14] <Shamal> "Oh, better than luck!" Shamal steps forward and casts a quick spell. "Let Mielikki show you the way!" she smiles brilliantly at her friend, before backing off again.
[21:14] <Seira> OOC: Taking 10 for 25
[21:14] <Seira> OOC: On disable device
[21:15] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Seira spends a bit working on it - she can't quite get it as is. Close but no cigar.
[21:15] * Seira winces.
[21:15] <Seira> roll 1d20+14
[21:15] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+14 --> 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{32}
[21:16] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> With a good effort, Seira disarms the trap! IT's neutralised, able to be opened safely nwo.
[21:16] * Seira smiles, waving at Demedais and Shamal.
[21:17] * Demedais nods gratefully and advances forward!
[21:18] <Shamal> "Good job, Seira!" Shamal smiles as she also comes over from her safe distance vantage point. "Never doubted you for a second."
[21:19] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The door is opened. You see a white marble hall, about ten feet wide and long. A few white pillars support the ceiling and in the center a green pool awaits. The liquid is serene and calm.
[21:19] <Seira> Seira's gaze drops down, slowly trailing Shamal's steps back to the point she stood at, before shrugging. "I didn't doubt myself either."
[21:19] <Seira> Is the liquid... magical?
[21:20] <Seira> It is clearly too serene and calm. Seira tosses a small pebble inside to stir things up.
[21:20] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The pebble lands on the surface and vanishes.
[21:20] <Seira> "Acid?"
[21:21] <Shamal> "It didn't melt, it just... vanished," Shamal blinks, stepping closer to have a look.
[21:21] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 spellcraft, dammit
[21:21] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+12 1,0spellcraft, dammit --> 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{25}
[21:21] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> There is no sign thatthe pebble disintegrated, it simply blinked away in an instant when it came in contact. The pool is deeper than Shamal can see, about three feet wide or so. It didn'te ven ripple when the stone was tossed on it.
[21:21] <Demedais> "A portal of some sort?" Demedais inquires, using Detect Chaos to examine it.
[21:22] * Shamal looks around for any other exits from the room before trusting the portal.
[21:22] <Seira> "Conjuration, so either that or it summons a being of unimaginable power and hatred."
[21:22] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> There is only the pool, there are no other doors beyond the one you came in.
[21:23] <Seira> "We can still breathe underwater for a goodly amount of time, so let's try the pool?"
[21:23] * Demedais considers for a second, before taking out a spare sunrod, striking it, and putting it in for a second before pulling it out.
[21:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The moment the sunrod touches the water, the rod and the paladin holding it vanish!
[21:25] <Seira> "I'm not letting him do foolish things on his own!" Seira calls out, jumping after the paladin!
[21:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Seira jumps to the pool, vanishing as well!
[21:25] * Shamal winces. "No choice but to go after him, now," she sighs, following Seira into the water.
[21:26] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> So the three appear! This is another room like the last, stnading just in front of a similiar pool. However, there is a heavy stone door ahead of them.
[21:27] <Demedais> "Wait, what?" Demedais says, confused, as he looks at the door, and then examines his sunrod. "I take it it was a portal, then. This door trapped?"
[21:28] <Seira> "Yes!" Seira exclaims suddenly. "I knew this spell would come in handy!"
[21:28] * Demedais eyes Seira.
[21:28] <Shamal> "What spell?" Shamal asks the half-elf.
[21:28] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Deme's sunrod functions normally, or so it appears.
[21:29] * Seira throws her hand at the door, and a blast of air rushes past her, impacting against the door!
[21:31] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The door opens! Ahead you can see that there are stairs going down after a small platform, but...what's ahead is far more interesting. You can mainly see it's eyes at first, fixated on you. It's red scales glow like deep fires, it's form massive. A red dragon is ahead, attention all on the three heroes! "At last..." It breathes, voicelike the heat from a bellows, the gushing of cooking air and rumbles of stone. "Mortal beings...you
[21:31] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> you have come, even by the backways?"
[21:32] <Seira> "It was the closest way, I'm afraid," Seira responds, keeping her voice suitably respectful. "Is this a good time for a visit?"
[21:32] * Shamal keeps her mouth shut for the moment, letting Seira handle this.
[21:33] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Yes, come. There will be no aura of fear. Approach me," The dragno speaks, sounding slightly impatient. "I see it - you, human, you hold the Fifth Resort?"
[21:33] * Seira approaches while taking the dragon's words on faith. After all, it needn't use trickery to incinerate them on the spot.
[21:33] <Shamal> Well, with an invitation, Shamal does step closer, not wanting to test the wyrm's patience.
[21:34] * Demedais starts. "Yes... sir dragon." What -does- one address a dragon as? "Obtained from another gnomish ruin." Demedais, too, steps closer, bowing a bit.
[21:34] <Seira> "We don't like gnomes, so if you do, we're really in trouble."
[21:36] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> As you step out, you see that you come out of one of six doors. The fourth of six, all against the back wall. A grand marble hall indeed, but most of it is blocked by the dragon's massive body, rendering you unable to see. "One of the True Gods has tasked you - Helm walks with you, Mielekki with you and even Waukeen watches you." It's head lifts up, a long neck allowing it plenty of freedom of movement. "I am Ajan, the Guardian of t
[21:36] <Infinite_Ko_Loop>  the Guardian of these ruins and tasked to watch over them."
[21:37] <Seira> "We are very honored to meet you," Seira says truthfully.
[21:38] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "You have come far...do you understand the purpose of this place, or have you blundered into it by the chance of fate?" He watches on, eyes taking in all three of you.
[21:38] <Shamal> "Guardian of the fairest star..." Shamal murmurs softly, looking up at the dragon with fairly intense curiousity.
[21:38] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Yes..." The dragon begins to look hard at Shamal, "So you do know?"
[21:38] * Demedais steps back, letting the knowledgeable mages do the talking for now.
[21:39] <Shamal> "We have heard stories... old stories, their details mostly obscured," Shamal admits. "Our knowledge is incomplete in many respects."
[21:40] <Seira> "You could say that pursuit of knowledge got us this far," Seira adds.
[21:42] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Such is why you took the back door?" Ajan asks, voice rumbling harder as he speaks, "...yes, time washes away the memory of mortals, and the Gods only work in visions and distance now." So he rears up, looming over you like a great tower. "Far below here lies the Throne of the God King and the fairest star. The place you have come to is the protection for it, changed from a gnomish heresy into a prison and a trial ground."
[21:43] <Seira> "We are to pass a trial, then?"
[21:45] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "You have ventured through a part of them." The dragon seems to focus on Seira now, head tilting towards her, enough to send waves of heat towards her. "For there are keys to the prison - the blessing of the Gods and the Resorts of the Gnome King. If you are blessed, I will not strike you down." He begins to smile, "Had any of the earlier mortal incursions reached this point..."  You see teeth, lots of huge teeth, perfectly white wi
[21:45] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> perfectly white with sparks between them. (More)
[21:46] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "This of the Guardians will then do you no ill. With the Resorts, the passages deeper in may be opened. If the seals at the end of each are undone..." He looks towards the sixth door, "The path ahead will open."
[21:47] <Shamal> "You say prison... who is imprisoned here?" Shamal asks. "Does Daa-vid still exist in some form? Or is it something else?"
[21:48] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Far below lies the last work of the Seeker - for in the fairest star the God King sleeps. The prison for the false pretender and all of his power and knowledge await. The days for that seem to draw nigh."
[21:49] <Seira> "Excuse me," Seira asks, her voice as respectful as ever when talking to ancient dragons not demanding tribute, "may I ask if you are the one who created the vision of Balmuria we passed through?"
[21:50] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "It is the purpose of the ruins to test and strengthen those that pass through. So that they are worthy and that if they succeed, that they will have the might do do what must be done at the end." Ajan rumbles at that, "The great power of this place has been changed into that of a trial - it will attempt to forge you in fire, making you true steel, as you progress inward."
[21:52] <Demedais> "Making us willing to do what must be done...?" Demedais says softly.
[21:52] <Shamal> "I presume it entails slaying Daa-vid... but that only begs the question of why the Gods did not do this themselves," Shamal observes.
[21:53] <Demedais> "Perhaps what rises from mortal hands must also fall to mortal hands." Demedais speculates.
[21:54] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "As long as the God King exists, the Gods will not return in full." The dragon speaks now, as the party speculates. "Is is the penance and fate of mortals to attempt to correct their wrongs of the past. The ones that do will control how this world changes in these times."
[21:55] <Shamal> "And you will permit any who have been blessed by a God to pass through here?" Shamal asks, craning her neck to look upwards at the gigantic wyrm.
[21:56] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Yes. My given task is to destroy those that are not and aid those that are. Be it the shining beacons such as the Gods of Good, or the dark pulses of the Dark Gods."
[21:57] * Shamal nods. "I had feared as much. That makes Cyric's interest all the more worrisome. Do you know if it is possible to reseal any gates we have opened with the Resorts?"
[21:58] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I can reseal the water gate if you wish - only a Resort will open it."
[22:00] <Shamal> "Yes, it would be appreciated if you could reseal it after we leave," Shamal nods earnestly. "Thank you, Ajan."
[22:01] * Demedais glances at the other five doors. "Sir Ajan... where are the, ah, not backdoor entrances located?"
[22:01] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "If you choose to return...teh main entrance hall can be conquered and allow you to reach this point quicker." He offers that advice, "Your people have mounted a few expiditions that have scratched the surface of that path."
[22:02] <Seira> "We were planning on taking that road next, had we failed in our current expedition," Seira comments. "We have speculated that they would be connected."
[22:02] <Shamal> "We will return, but matters require our attention back in Balmuria," Shamal nods slowly, letting Seira take over now.
[22:02] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "You are correct," Ajan continues on, "Very well. I will wait here until my duty calls me to smite the unblessed or aide those that seek the secrets here."
[22:03] <Seira> "What we have seen in the ghost city troubles me greatly," Seira tells the dragon. "We wish to prevent it with all our might, but we know not the cause for that. Could you share that knowledge with us?"
[22:05] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The dragon rumbles once and then twice, "What occurs in these halls of trial may or may not be accurate to the future. At times, they may take aspects of your believes or fears and craft them into a trial all it's own. I know little of the current outside world."
[22:05] <Seira> "What of the rooms whose defenses we have already braved and overwhelmed?" Seira asks. "They are not part of the outside world. Can you please tell us more about them, such as the chamber with the large clock? Its purpose eludes us, and we cannot spare the time to properly study it in our hour of need."
[22:08] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "The rooms you have defeated all have a purpose. I cannot tell you of the ones undefeated, but I can tell you of the ones defeated, so that  you may understand and grow stronger from your experiences."
[22:10] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> After a few moments of pause, "I cannot tell you of the clock, as it still stands defiant."
[22:10] <Shamal> "What of the gnome we encountered at the spellgem creation room?" Shamal asks.
[22:10] <Seira> "Please do tell us what you can," Seira requests. "Of the city of ghosts and figments, and memory of the gnome, the chamber of honey and death, and the decay underwater."
[22:10] * El-Cideon is now known as Sierra_Noir
[22:12] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "A minor wizard overseeing production. One of the paths to power lies in those gems - the purpose was a chance to allow you to see that and a chance to obtain learning. The room of the bees was a trial to test your strength against myriad, complex difficulties at once, to see the limits of your capacity and to allow you to strain to your limits. The city of ghosts was wrought from your minds, creating the illusion. My desire to meet
[22:13] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> My desire to meet those that had come in the back way bled into it." (More)
[22:14] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The room of the seal was simply that - the room of the seal. Solid and real, unchanged, guarded by a fearsome trap. The ones seeking the seal find water begins to gush down as the paths they are on vanish, dropping them into battle with two reborn horrors."
[22:16] * Seira nods thoughtfully. "If I might trouble you more, noble Ajan," she says slowly. "You have mentioned a seeker. Talinn is the one you spoke of?"
[22:16] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Yes," The dragon agrees to those words, "Talinn the Seeker."
[22:16] <Seira> "Then he is the one who invented the spellgems?"
[22:17] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "No. The gnomes did - he is a hero that fought against them and the God King time and again, until the final victory. He was the one that drew the humans and elves together to battle, and obtained his death sword Arondaaq there."
[22:18] <Seira> "Does he live still? I have heard stories of him researching into the magic of immortality itself!"
[22:19] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Ajan pauses a moment, before he shakes his head. The near gale this sends to you is quite fearsome. "No. His time passed. I know that Talinn no longer exists in this world."
[22:20] <Seira> "A final question, if I may," Seira requests of the dragon. "What is the significance of opening the sea gate? Is it merely another way of passing into the ruins, or does holding it open have another meaning?"
[22:21] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "It is a relic of the original design, attached to the sea for religious and conversion purposes. It remains because it connects to the trap around the fourth seal. It has allowed you to reach this point for an advantageous position."
[22:24] * Seira bows deeply out of respect. "Thank you for your wisdom, great Ajan. May it and all that we have learned here help us preserve our city in the face of Kondrux's intransigence."
[22:24] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> At that, Ajan pauses. "...Kondrux? That is a dragon's name." He looks at Seira, curious.
[22:25] <Demedais> "Yes. Balmuria has been threatened by a blue dragon of that name. We came here searching for both the dragon that guards the fairest star..." Demedais nods to Ajan. "As well as any tools we could find to drive Kondrux off."
[22:25] * Seira nods firmly. "It belongs to a blue dragon living near our home. One day, awakened by a human, he decided to become angry with their entire race, it appears. We do not have time before he returns again, to raize our city or worse."
[22:27] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "A blue dragon..." Ajan seems to pause again, long, as the heroes speak. "Dragons awakening as well..." His eyes half close, head lowering. "Is he a fearsome dragon?"
[22:28] <Seira> "I was afraid," Seira confirms. "But I tried not to show it."
[22:29] <Demedais> "To everyone except me, but he's a rather large specimen so far as I can gather." Demedais grins. "I was enboldened by Helm, however, so I'm not sure my experiences are... an accurate portrayal, shall we say."
[22:29] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Perhaps I can help you..." Ajan speaks, slow. "Perhaps we can come to an agreement on this matter, a pact. A blood pact. I have a means to where you can force him to leave your city be."
[22:29] <Seira> "I would do a lot to see this happen," Seira vows.
[22:29] <Shamal> "He is not so old as yourself, Ajan, but are dragons not all fearsome by definition?" Shamal asks. Perking up, she then asks, "What pact is this you speak of?"
[22:30] * Demedais says silent, listening to Ajan's words.
[22:31] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I have lived in this place for thousands of years...when thet ime comes, my fate is uncertain. If you are the ones to succeed, you will vow to free me from this prison. In exchange...I will perform an augury, one that will tell you the true name and identity of Kondrux in the stars. With this, you will be able to at least force him away."
[22:32] <Seira> "I will devote my life to it, if need be!" Seira states passionately.
[22:32] * Shamal glances to the others. "It would be a cruel fate for anyone to be forced into guarding a prison that no longer serves a purpose," she observes, giving her own feelings on the bargain.
[22:33] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "What of you?" Looking to Demedais, "I wish for all three of you to join such a pact."
[22:34] <Demedais> "Cruel, I think, is an understatement." Demedais replies to Shamal, before hesitating for a second. "We will set you free, one way or another... Ajan." Demedais says.
[22:35] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Then...let us make the pact of blood..." Ajan begins to chant, but not in normal words. Words you barely can hear or understand, echoing. The air begins to grow hot in front of you, shimmering in metal baking temperatures! Right at your feet, the stone floor boils, shifting into a complicated diagram. A magical one, dozens ofsigils and notations. At that, Ajan opens his mouth and bites down, spitting out a droplet of blood onto it,
[22:36] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> onto it, sizzling away. "Offer your own blood to it. The terms of the pact have been stated."
[22:37] * Seira uses her clean elven blade to make a small incision in her wrist, so shallow only a drop escapes, and she lets it fall onto the diagram.
[22:37] <Shamal> roll 1d20+15 spellcraft for fun
[22:37] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0spellcraft for fun --> 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{26}
[22:38] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 sure, fun
[22:38] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+12 1,0sure, fun --> 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{14}
[22:39] <Shamal> Lacking in any blades of her own, Shamal is forced to bite her thumb, wincing a little bit as she digs her teeth in deeply to tear flesh before she flicks her hand at the sigil, sending a small arc of her blood across it before she casts cure minor wounds to close up the damage.
[22:39] * Demedais hesitates for a second more, before nodding. "You have been vigilant for a long time, Ajan, but forced vigilance would easily wear down any spirit. Very well." Demedais draws his blade out just a small bit, and presses his hand into it until it lightly bleeds before he lets the blood fall onto the diagram.
[22:43] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> As the blood flows, each of them feels a jolt within themselves, as the changed stone flashes, vanishing. "It is done. Very well..." The dragon begins to chant again, this time in slow, sonorous Common. "I am one that is of the whole past...the secrets are mine alone, brush away the fog of unknowing. I offer a small part of myself to you, my Lord..." With his wrods, Ajan finishes. "The true name of the dragon Kondrux is..." His brea
[22:44] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> His breathing is a little ragged after that, but he goes on despite buckling. "Janalaxaj. Call that name and speak these words to his face, 'Janalaxaj, I command under your true name that you leave this place and never again darken ourskies!'" A berath after, "Your spirits are not as strong as his, but even he cannot fight that enough to resist that one command. I will tire you and take a lot of your vitality, however, so be prepare
[22:44] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> After speaking that, Ajan crashes down, making the floor thump heavily. "It is finished now. Go."
[22:45] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> prepared."
[22:45] * Shamal bows respectfully to the great dragon. "You have our thanks, Ajan. One day, we will fulfill our end of the bargain." With that she turns to leave.
[22:46] * Seira bows once more. "Thank you," she also says, and follows Shamal out of the chamber.
[22:46] * Demedais bows as well. "We will be back, good friend dragon. Thank you." With that, he follows Shamal and Seira!
[22:46] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Where are you guys heading?
[22:47] <Shamal> OOC: clock~
[22:47] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The party walks back to the clock. The way is uneventful, the party reaching the strange, chilly roomwithout incident. The clock awaits them.
[22:48] <Shamal> "So, any ideas?" Shamal asks, studying the timepiece.
[22:49] <Seira> "Demedais, I would like you to try setting this clock," Seira requests. "I do not see any traps in the design, so the actual act would only require strength, and not be dangerous in itself. As for the setting... let's try present time?"
[22:49] * Demedais nods. "What is the current time, then?
[22:50] <Shamal> "It's around lunchtime, isn't it?" Shamal asks. "We left Balmuria around early morning."
[22:51] * Seira approximates the time after adding the travel times underwater and their journeying in the ruins themselves, before telling Demedais the result.
[22:51] * Demedais nods before moving to set it to that time!"
[22:51] * Seira also takes our her bow and a wand of magical missiles, just in case.
[22:53] * Shamal calls upon her blessing of helm and casts shield upon herself.
[22:53] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - What's your alignment, Demedais? LN?
[22:54] <Demedais> OOC: Yeeep.
[22:54] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC: Roll 1d100
[22:54] <Demedais> roll 1d100
[22:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=16 ]4,0{16}
[22:55] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The clock is set to 1! As this happens, you hear the tick tocking increase in speed, everything around Demedais blurring! OOC - This is just for Deme at the moment; more.
[22:57] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Demedais stands watching. A wall has been knocked down as far as he can see, standing and watching from the...the garrison of Balmuria? The west city wall is down, roads past it being build, expanded, houses being constructed. Commander Oberuth speaks, standing besides him. "...few more weeks until it's finished, they're already working on the southern wall to loop it around and a new gate."" he goes on casually. "What do you think?
[22:57] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "What do you think?"
[22:59] <Demedais> "Um." Demedais hesitates. "I... think I missed the first half of what you were saying, sir. My mind was, ah. Elsewhere." *Another blasted illusion?!?*
[22:59] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Hah. Thinking abotu her again?" Oberuth laughs and slaps your back, jovial. "I said that it should only be a few more weeks until the deconstruction is fully finished and the first batch of houses are finished. Or so."
[23:02] <Demedais> "Thinking about who? No, I was..." *play along or state upfront? ....he seems unaware, acting along may get me useful information.* "My mind was wandering back to some ruins, sir." Demedais answered truthfully. "This should be useful for expansion, certainly. I'm always devastated at knocking down a good wall, but all things with time, sir."
[23:04] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Heh, yes, well there's a lot about ruins to be on your mind. Still, this should hopefully get us a real deployment since the population's rising. We need it - I still remember sending Shamal and Seira on guard duty because we were so short."
[23:06] <Demedais> "Heh."Demedais pauses for a second, then shakes his head. "I confess to not a bit of confusion right now - thinking about ruins always does that to me." Demedais chuckles. "Who were you referring to me thinking about?"
[23:07] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Your ladyfriend." Chuckling again in amusement, "Gods, you must have been distracted. Didn't sleep much last night?"
[23:09] <Demedais> "Never do." Demedais says lightly, while rather confused about the situation. "Speaking of Seira and Shamal, where are they currently?"
[23:10] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I think Shamal's researching and Seira's at the Temple. Probably talking to Mia about you?" In amusement he just chuckles again, "Are you sure you're alright? You really do seemdisorganized."
[23:11] <Demedais> "As I said, ruins seem to have this effect on me." Demedais join in the chuckling. "I've got a question about magic that's nagging at me... Commander, permission to go ask Shamal?"
[23:12] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Granted.." As he speaks, you notice he begins to get blurry again. Blurry and indistinct, wavy. Something's happening.
[23:12] * Demedais blinks, hesitating. "Uh... sir?"
[23:13] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> IN a moment it all ends. Shamal and Seira are back, as Demedais finishes moving the hands, the memory of what just happened strong in his mind.
[23:13] * Demedais plops down on the floor, a bit confused. "Well then."
[23:13] <Shamal> "Demedais?" Shamal asks. "You seemed to space out for a moment, there."
[23:14] <Demedais> "I got a...
[23:14] <Seira> "No traps, right?" Seira asks anxiously.
[23:14] <Demedais> vision, shall we say. An illusion. Just like the one of ruined Balmuria, but this one was pleasant." Demedais says. "Truth or not, I don't know. We can ask Ajan later, I guess?"
[23:15] <Seira> "It seems petty to trouble him over just that right now, yes."
[23:15] <Demedais> "Indeed."
[23:16] <Shamal> "I agree with Seira... But let me try it, then," Shamal steps forward and eyes the clock for a moment before she sets the hands to the time best matching dawn at this time of year. That's when she prays to Mielikki, after all.
[23:16] <Seira> "Say. Was it pleasant, pleasant... or just the not-evil-vision kind of pleasant?" Seira asks as Shamal touches the clock.
[23:17] <Demedais> "I apparently had a ladyfriend and Balmuria was peaceful and expanding. So apparently it was a good one.
[23:18] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC: Alignment, Shamal?
[23:18] * Seira snickers. "I bet you did."
[23:18] <Shamal> OOC: NG
[23:18] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC: Roll 1d100
[23:18] <Demedais> "And there are even odds the ladyfriend was you, but I never figured it out." Demedais continues, grinning a bit.
[23:19] * Seira stops suddenly. "You don't say... and you had a pleasant-pleasant vision with me in it?"
[23:19] <Shamal> roll 1d100
[23:19] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=61 ]4,0{61}
[23:20] <Demedais> "No, you weren't in it. Oberuth told me I had a ladyfriend, and that you were talking with some girl Mia about me, so I conclude it was either you are Mia. If I were a betting man, I'd guess Mia for a variety of reasons, but."
[23:20] <Seira> "I see...."
[23:21] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The world blurs, Shamal's vision losing the others!  As it clears, Demedais and Seira lost, she sees she is in a grand, dimly lit silk tent. She lies on a bed of pillows, clad in gauzy silks that do little to actually hide her body.  The scents of vanilla, jasmine and wildflowers fill the room, a decanter of wine lying next to her.
[23:22] <Shamal> "What...!" Shamal sits up and attempts to cover herself up, looking around in confusion. Is she some sort of desert fiefdom harlot here or something?!
[23:24] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The floor is covered with many layers of durable silk, but she can faintly make out sand beneath. As she looks, someone enters. A man wearing white from head to toe, wrapped in it. His face is expressionless, a dagger at his belt. "My lady.." he murmurs respectfully to her. "We will leave the oasis in two hours."
[23:25] <Shamal> "Ahh... right," Shamal eyes him suspiciously. At least his demeanour seems respectful enough. "Leave for where, exactly?" she asks, cocking her head while doing her best to cover her essentials with her arms. These clothes are worse than being naked...
[23:26] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Towards the next oasis and then the next, and then the ruins," he speaks, eyes looking at her but cold, restrained. "Is there anything you require before we leave again?"
[23:29] <Shamal> "... yes. What do you think we'll find in the ruins?" Shamal asks thoughtfully, deciding to try and get as much information as she can out of this. So long as nobody tries to have her way with her, she can deal with this.
[23:29] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Mustafa Pasha will meet us there with that information," He speaks, distantly. "Your husband promised that to you."
[23:30] <Shamal> "Yes... humour me a little, will you?" Shamal asks, knowing she sounds odd but not really caring, "What do you know of my husband?"
[23:31] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I am his vassal," he bows his head, "What is it of him you wish to know...ah." He nods his head, "I can have one of his concubines meet up with us if you wish to know how to make him happy when you meet, if that is your desire."
[23:32] <Shamal> Shamal's cheeks flush, scandalised for a moment, but she forces the reaction down. "I think I'll manage," she replies coldly. "What kind of man is my husband... how did we come together?"
[23:34] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "You accepted his offer, My Lady..." He begins to look at you slightly differently, eyes looking down at you and focused. With a smooth motion he withdraws his dagger, "Guards! Something has happened to Mustafa Pasha's wife!"
[23:35] <Shamal> "Okay... vision can end, now, think we're done," Shamal looks heavenwards and speaks in a faintly pleading tone.

[19:49] <Ko-nata> Shamal hears rustling outside, the sound of feet, animals and metal. Inside, the white garbed man looks on with expressionless eyes, seeming to dissect the air around Shamal with nary a move. OOC - Initiative.
[19:49] <Shamal> OOC: I'm in my own body, not future Shamal's, right?
[19:49] <Ko-nata> OOC - For the sake of this, yeah.
[19:49] <Shamal> roll 1d20+1
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+1 and gets 20."12 [1d20=19]
[19:49] <Ko-nata> roll 1d20+5
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Ko-nata rolls 1d20+5 and gets 18."12 [1d20=13]
[19:49] <Ko-nata> OOC - Act if you wish.
[19:50] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-164-207-227.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[19:53] <Shamal> Seeing that she's still here, Shamal backs away from the knife wielding crazy, looking rather worried. "Now, let's not be so hasty. I'm sure we can discuss this like reasonable adults - there's no need for violence," she tries to placate him. Of course if she had any violent spells of her own, it'd be a different story.
[19:58] <Ko-nata> "Shamal Velka Pasha, I have very little patience for games..." The man looks on, the air around you starting to look...cut. Like lines of blank space are being cut into it. (More)
[19:58] <Ko-nata> As it does, Shamal starts. She finds herself at the clock, finishing changing the time, as she can hear Seira and Demedais chat aback and forth.
[19:59] <Demedais> "...do you know anyone named Mia, thinking on it?" Demedais inquires of Seira.
[19:59] <Shamal> "Oh, phew!" Shamal sags and steps back from the clock. "Yes, let's make sure that never happens," she nods resolutely.
[19:59] <Seira> "Yes. I'll think about introducing you."
[19:59] <Seira> "Were you pseudo-married to Demedais, too, in the alternate future?"
[20:00] <Demedais> "Mmm. No, don't worry about it." Demedais says, looking at Shamal. "So, how'd it go?"
[20:01] <Shamal> "No, I was married to Mustapha Pasha, some grand poobah from the desert fiefdoms. And just about to be stabbed by his vassal, it looked like," the blonde shivers a bit. "Mielikki preserve me, I hope that future never comes to pass..."
[20:01] <Demedais> "I... see." Demedais says, not really seeing at all. "Well, maybe that one guy staying at Seira's inn can tell you who he is?"
[20:02] <Shamal> "Yes, so I know to avoid him," Shamal nods briskly. "Do you want a shot, Seira?" she asks, gesturing to the clock and trying to put the unpleasantness behind her.
[20:02] <Seira> "My turn!" Seira walks up to the clock, and decides to try her date of birth as combination to the magical device, the hour hand serving as months while the days are but minutes on its surface. An idle hope of seeing her father and mother together flashes through her mind, before she pushes it away, intent on seeing what the future has in store for her.
[20:03] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-164-207-227.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[20:03] <Ko-nata> OOC - To what numbersand did you mvoe them clockwise or counter clockwise?
[20:04] <Seira> OOC: Clockwise, 12:25
[20:05] <Ko-nata> OOC: I know what your alignment is. Roll 1d100
[20:05] <Seira> roll 1d100 whee~
[20:05] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d100 whee~ and gets 97."12 [1d100=97]
[20:09] <Ko-nata> The world around Seira blurs! When her vision clears, she stands atop an endless ravine's cliff.  Below her stretches a faraway ribbon of red lava, thousands of feet down, yet so big that it appears as large as if she were only a few dozen feet above it. Floating perhaps two dozen feet out is...father? He wears a heavy red robe and cowl, but you can see his face, even shadowed. "Goodbye, Seira," he intones, holding a red stone towards the sk
[20:09] <Ko-nata> the sky.
[20:10] * Carthrat is now known as Saul
[20:10] <Seira> "Like hell," Seira mutters. "Hey!" she calls out, placing her hands on her hips. "Old man, what do you think you're doing?"
[20:13] <Ko-nata> "Finishing this." You can see him smile, almost. The stone in his hand begins to glow like a sun, throwing off waves of intense heat.  His body begins to twist, curl, shift. Red scaled arms, wings, legs, the body of a dragon. His voice is muffled as, "I won't let turn into a dragon."
[20:13] <Ko-nata> *let you
[20:14] <Seira> "Why would I?" Seira asks in confusion. "Did you kidnap and polymorph one? Is that why I never met mom? It better not have been a blue male dragon!"
[20:14] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-164-226-73.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[20:15] <Ko-nata> Saul doesn't get any words out. Instead, he seems to shift, and as he does, he is pulled down into the ravine. Slowly at first, but he quickly begins to plummet.
[20:16] * Seira shakes her fist at him. "You'll so get it when I finally catch you!"
[20:17] <Ko-nata> As Saul plummets down, you see the faraway river of lava rise. It rises in gushes, dragons of burning magma coming up, surrounding the plummeting Saul.
[20:19] * Seira is frustrated, but not enough to jump into lava after him.
[20:20] <Ko-nata> So Saul vanishes into the lava, leaving Seira alone. As it does, "...Seira?" You hear an old man's voice from behind you, shaky but sturdy enough to carry all this distance.
[20:21] <Seira> "Yes, strange old man whom I do not know?" Seira asks, turning around.
[20:22] <Ko-nata> Celebrimbor stands well away, down the path to the clifftop. He looks on, tired. "...please, don't," he sighs, looking drained, older than your memories of him. "This has been hard on you, but let's go back to Balmuria."
[20:23] * Seira smiles at the kind elf. "I don't know if I ever told you this before, but once I experienced a magical time warp that sent me forward in time to this very moment. In fact, this is the past me. Hi! What date is it now?"
[20:25] <Ko-nata> "....what?" Celebrimbor stares at Seira, in open mouthed surprise, "...no, you haven't." He seems to firm up in a moment, "The date is year 470 in the human calender."
[20:28] <Seira> "Wow, I lived longer than I expected, considering my occupation," Seira muses, indeed looking somewhat shocked by the revelation. "Listen, I don't know how long I have. But if this is a bad future, I'll prevent it! Just tell me what went wrong and when!"
[20:30] <Ko-nata> Taking a breath out, Celebrimbor begins to speak, "I don't know...changing the past is dangerous," he says, sounding quite sure of himself. "But..." THe world begins to blur around you, shifting. "Be wary of the dragons, all of them. The free ones are monsters, and the bound ones...The pacts they make are not to be taken lightly.""
[20:30] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-164-226-73.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[20:31] <Seira> "Did my pact turn me into a dragon?" she calls to him through the blurring of the world.
[20:31] * Seira looks carefully for any reaction, be it a nod or a shake of the head.
[20:32] <Ko-nata> OOC - Spot check under the circumstances.
[20:32] <Seira> roll 1d20+1 are you kidding me?
[20:32] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+1 are you kidding me? and gets 18."12 [1d20=17]
[20:33] <Ko-nata> Seira can't hear him, but she can see Celebrimbor begin to nod as...she finishes turning the clock's hands. As she does, the clock in front of her in the cold room begins to turn on it's own, a whirrling sound coming from within, heard by all three heroes.
[20:33] <Seira> "Okay, let's leave," she decides, doing just that.
[20:33] * Seira doesn't stop until she's out of the room with the tickling time bomb.
[20:33] <Shamal> "What did you see?" Shamal asks, backing away a little from the clock but not leaving - she's a bit curious what it's doing.
[20:35] <Seira> "My vision trumps your visions."
[20:35] * Demedais stays in sight of Shamal and Seira, ready to move if either needs assistance.
[20:35] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-244-31-168.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[20:35] <Demedais> "It probably does! Mind indulging us?" Demedais inquires.
[20:35] * Seira writes it down, in fact, before she forgets some detail, as if by magic.
[20:37] <Ko-nata> The clock's hands begin to move and swirl, as the entire rear wall begins to slide back, clock and everything. At each tick, the clockface wavers, like ice cream about to melt in the sun.
[20:39] * Shamal ... doesn't actually have any relevant spells to cast, so she just watches for the moment.
[20:39] <Ko-nata> OOC - You're out of the room, yes, Seira?
[20:39] <Seira> OOC: Yep. May it not be bad~
[20:40] <Ko-nata> OOC: You're in the room, right, Deme?
[20:40] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah, halfway between Seira and Shamal.
[20:41] <Ko-nata> The door to the room slams shut! As it does, the clock melts apart! It flows, at first shifting into Commander Oberuth...but the shape does not hold. Then into the man Shamal saw...but the shape does not hold. Then into a great red dragon...but the shape does not hold. INstead, it flows back, the clock reforming. The door to the room opens again, the tick-tocking of the clock ceased. All is silent now.
[20:42] <Shamal> "That..." Shamal blinks and looks at Demedais, "Do you have any idea what that was about?"
[20:42] * Seira waves. "You two done? Let's get back to Balmuria."
[20:42] <Demedais> "I take it you saw a red dragon, Seira?" Demedais called.
[20:42] <Shamal> "Okay, lets get going," Shamal nods, heading to catch up with Seira.
[20:43] * Demedais nods and follows. Whatever just happened here...
[20:43] * Seira places her things back into her water-proof container, before smiling.
[20:43] <Shamal> "So what was your vision about?" Shamal asks.
[20:44] <Demedais> "Also, did you two want to collect some of the bee venom? I realize it's not as important now, but."
[20:45] <Shamal> "It couldn't hurt to keep some for a rainy day," Shamal nods to Demedais.
[20:45] <Seira> "I met Dad again. After... seventy eight years." She blinks. "Wow, epic."
[20:45] * Seira smiles again. "I'll be sure to cut it down in half this time around!"
[20:45] <Shamal> "Looks like you've got a long wait," Shamal winces. "Was seeing him what you hoped for, at least?"
[20:46] <Demedais> "Your dad?" Demedais inquires before shrugging. "Whatever you two want. I'm... ready to see Balmuria again.
[20:46] <Seira> "Oh yes. I get to turn into a dragon. People all over get to beware me."
[20:46] <Shamal> "Uh..." Shamal blinks. "Run that by me again?"
[20:47] <Demedais> "You... get to what?"
[20:47] <Seira> "I was shocked, too. It sounds pretty grand." She shrugs. "I think it might be from my mom's side?"
[20:48] * Demedais eyes Seira.
[20:48] <Shamal> "I thought your mother was human, though..." Shamal replies dazedly, squinting at the diminuitive half-elf. "How does that even work?"
[20:48] <Seira> "When a man and a woman love each other very much--"
[20:48] <Demedais> "They produce half-human, half-elf, half-dragon and all-deadly entities?"
[20:49] <Seira> "I'm pretty sure the dragon part is dominant."
[20:49] <Demedais> "This is what I miss by being orphaned, I see."
[20:50] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-244-31-168.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[20:50] <Shamal> "Well... how exactly are you going to... ah, turn into a dragon, anyway?" Shamal asks patiently.
[20:52] * Seira shrugs. "Hell if I knew. It'll be research time when we get back. I doubt I'll get it in time for Kondrux's visit, though, so let's grab the venom just in case."
[20:52] <Demedais> "Perhaps you turn her into one." Demedais replies with a chuckle.
[20:52] * Demedais nods. "Yes, let's go. I tire of this ruin."
[20:52] <Seira> "Fine, as long as you experiment on someone else."
[20:53] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-54401035.l5.c3.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[20:53] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[20:53] * Shamal (WinNT@user-54401035.l5.c3.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Ebiris))
[20:53] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[20:54] <Shamal> "I'll be happier to get home," Shamal agrees.
[20:54] * Seira has nothing further to add!
[20:55] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-54401035.l5.c3.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[20:55] * Shamal (WinNT@user-54401035.l5.c3.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Ebiris))
[20:55] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[20:55] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
[20:55] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-164-207-227.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[20:58] * Seira suddenly finds something to add, as if struck by divine inspiration! "Shamal, Demedais," she says, frowning. "Anything relating to dragons should probably remain our secret, until we research it better. After all, if the Malmuth delegates hear about our plan, I can't see them agreeing to send the dragon 'away' and possibly towards them. And should they decide to stab us in the back over this...."
[21:00] * Ebiris_ (WinNT@user-5444c711.lns1-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[21:00] * Shamal (WinNT@user-54401035.l5.c3.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Ebiris_))
[21:00] * Ebiris_ is now known as Shamal
[21:00] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
[21:01] <Demedais> "...mmmm." Demedais says, pausing. "This... mmm. For now, yes, but I may request consulting Oberuth as well over what should be done. Outside us four, though, for now it makes no sense to say anything more."
[21:01] <Seira> "Umm. Until we know how and why, if at all, he becomes contaminated, I don't think we should tell him about this, either."
[21:02] <Shamal> Shamal nods. "What we've learned shouldn't be shared too freely, no. Better to have Malmuth unaware of what resources we have available." She frowns at Seira's next comment, however. "Contaminated? Seira, that wasn't real back there."
[21:02] <Demedais> "Didn't the dragon say that was simply a aggregation of our own fears?"
[21:03] * Seira blinks. "So just because we're afraid it will happen it can't?"
[21:03] <Demedais> "Well, no. But if you fear corruption, that could happen to any of us in a moment of laxness."
[21:04] <Shamal> "Seira, I am not going to treat my commander any differently just because of some illusion I encountered in a dungeon," Shamal states firmly. "I see no reason not to tell him what we've learned."
[21:04] * Seira shrugs in response, not arguing the point further.
[21:15] * Saul is now known as Carthrat-Sleep
[21:31] <Ko-nata> After getting back and resting a day, the party meets with Commander Oberuth. He watches in the courtyard, where three score soldiers follow Donald's instructions. He wears no armor, fighting with a large, familiar bastard sword. A little to the side, Pollyanna instructs archers, grim faced and relentless. As the Commander watches this, no one nearby as everyone seems to be giving you a bit of a halo, "Alrigth," he murmurs, "Report."
[21:34] <Shamal> "We acquired several potent magical items, lore which may possibly allow us to craft spellgems, and," Shamal smiles broadly at this last part, "The True Name of the Dragon Kondrux, which we can use to force him to leave us alone."
[21:34] <Seira> "Another dragon told us. They don't seem to like each other."
[21:35] <Demedais> "There is... a lot that must be said." Demedais says, covertly casting detect chaos and mainly glancing over Oberuth. "Perhaps this should be discussed in relative privacy?" Demedais then inquires to the other three.
[21:35] <Ko-nata> "How in the devil di-ah." Oberuth looks on, starting to grin. "You found a solution! Yes, I suppose." Looking once more at the training, the Commander heads towards the garrison's front gates.
[21:36] * Demedais nods solemnly and follows Oberuth in.
[21:36] * Shamal trots along after the commander, Laika clinging close to her heels for the moment after being apart so much lately.
[21:36] <Seira> As she walks, Seira idly asks, "Sir, does it bother you when I discuss magic?"
[21:37] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-164-207-227.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[21:37] <Ko-nata> So the foursome heads inside, to the meeting room. "...hm?" Frowning as he turns to Seira, "No. Even if I can't figure most of it even after spending a month of nights trying to puzzle out most of the terms," A slight scowl does pass, momentary. "Where does that come from?"
[21:38] <Seira> "I could help you with that, Sir," Seira smoothly offers, coincidentally changing the subject.
[21:39] * Shamal eyes Seira, but does not intervene in the discussion she's brought up.
[21:39] <Demedais> "That, in and of itself, is a long story, sir." Demedais replies, head bowed. "For now, shall we summarize the information we got from the dragon? And, yes, you'll need to help both Oberuth and I. I get lost even more easily than he does, I suspect." Demedais grins.
[21:39] * NeremWo (~Lorei@pool-71-123-186-247.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[21:39] <Ko-nata> "I have a basic g rasp now, at least. It's just not my talent." So he seems to put it aside, as you head into the meeting room. Once ni he sits, "I may yet ask. Go on," Waving his hand towards the seats, "At ease and tell me what happend."
[21:40] <Seira> "We have confirmed that the sea gate connects to the ruins by Balmuria, Sir," Seira stats with.
[21:41] <Ko-nata> "Excellent! Keepg oing," His interest focuses right on Seira, "What lies in there, then?"
[21:42] <Seira> "The most important thing is that a dragon acts as guardian of the ruins," she continues. "He was the one who aided us. We have left as soon as we had what we needed." She pauses, then adding, "And should this plan fail, somehow, we have secured potent poison to even out the odds."
[21:43] <Ko-nata> "Yes, we're working on plans - well, we are, and we'll go over those later." A pause as he starts to grin, "Good, good. Hopefully they'll be academic now."
[21:44] <Demedais> "Excellent. We must have multiple avenues in case any one fails..." Demedais nods.
[21:44] <Seira> "We also have a new sword Captain Shamal thought would fit you perfectly, Sir," Seira adds.
[21:45] <Shamal> "Well, I don't know how it compares to Grand Striker, but it would be nice to add to the armoury," Shamal nods as she takes the sword from her haversack. "It protects against magic and inflicts additional damage upon any who have a familiarity with spellcasting - arcane or divine."
[21:46] <Ko-nata> Raising an eyebrow at Seira's words, "Another one? I've tried that hammer you brought back, but I never feel right holding it. Also, that bastard sword's made a good fit on Donald; but another offer is appreciated." Oberuth's eyes light up as he sees the sword, however, "Let me see it?"
[21:46] * Shamal hands it hilt first to the commander, having already verified it has no nasty mental compulsion powers.
[21:47] * Seira quietly casts Detect Magic while the Commander examines his new toy in fascination.
[21:47] <Ko-nata> Commander Oberuth holds the blade, going through a few basic slashes. The blade whistles in the air, as he starts to grin. "This...this is a good weapon. It feels perfect, down to being broken in for all the right places!"
[21:48] * Demedais attempts to keep a straight face.
[21:49] <Shamal> "I'm glad it meets your approval, sir," Shamal smiles serenely.
[21:50] <Seira> "Would you like to test its protection against magic, Sir?" Seira asks casually.
[21:50] <Ko-nata> "If you are donating this weapon..." He swings it a few more times, before placing it at his side. "Another day. As good as it is, we have more pertinent matters."
[21:50] <Shamal> "The protection wasn't *that* effective, you may recall," Shamal tells Seira with a sidelong glance.
[21:51] * Seira looks slightly disappointed.
[21:51] <Ko-nata> Sitting back down carefully, "On those matters, how effective is the means of stopping Kondrux?"
[21:51] * NeremWo (~Lorei@pool-71-123-186-247.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[21:52] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-5444c711.lns1-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[21:52] * Shamal (WinNT@user-5444c711.lns1-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Ebiris))
[21:52] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[21:52] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
[21:52] * Seira shifts in place. "Very, if we wish to protect Balmuria itself," Seira responds, emphasizing the last two words.
[21:52] * Demedais nods in agreement with Seira.
[21:54] <Shamal> "With his True Name we can exercise very limited control over him - enough to send him away from our city," Shamal admits. "But it would not remove him from the world."
[21:54] <Ko-nata> "It's a start," Agreement comes after a nod, thoughtful. "It does soundl ike a temporary solution if so, then."
[21:54] <Seira> "Research is likely to provide a better alternative, but research is a factor of time."
[21:55] <Demedais> "It... seems like it would keep him far clear of Balmuria, but Malmuth would be open to him. And- have the emissiaries arrived yet?" Demedais asks, suddenly thinking of something.
[21:56] <Ko-nata> "...now, that is interesting," Oberuth ponders it, before shaking his head, "They're due soon."
[21:57] * Demedais nods. "We also don't know to what extent he may go to take revenge on the Baronies, if he's repelled here. We have... many possiblities, all of them with a fair degree of risk."
[22:01] <Ko-nata> "Yes." A tense nod as Oberuth considers, "You've done good regardless. Alright, if this fails, we still have our backup plans we've worked out. In particular - a thrust combined with with all we have after softening the dragon with any means we have, trying to poison it if possible."
[22:02] <Seira> "If all else fails, we might be able to trick it. Though a dragon, and an old one at that, it can still be fooled."
[22:02] * Shamal nods. "I have a dexterity weakening poison which would be very effective against a dragon. There's also the poison which was used on Lord Salman, though I'm loathe to use that for fear of an accident involving one of our own."
[22:06] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-5444c711.lns1-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[22:06] * Shamal (WinNT@user-5444c711.lns1-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Ebiris))
[22:06] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[22:06] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
[22:09] <Ko-nata> "Then alright," Oberuth nods once more, "We're working on training our reserve as best we can also."
[22:10] <Demedais> "Also good, even if their assistance isn't needed this time." Demedais nods. "Who knows when we'll face such a situation again?"
[22:11] <Seira> "Showing Malmuthian spies that we are constantly ready and attentive would help our long-term interests," Seira agrees.
[22:12] <Ko-nata> "Entirely true," Commander Oberuth smiles slightly at that, "Alright. Go rest up and I'll have you summoned when the 'reinforcements' from Malmuth arrive."
[22:13] * Seira salutes!
[22:14] * Shamal likewise salutes and heads off, having lots of work of her own to do!
[22:14] * Demedais also salutes, and heads off to the temple, with a lot to think about. Including how to protect the shield...
[22:16] <Seira> "Demedais!" Seira calls out to him once they've left the debfiefing.
[22:16] <Demedais> "Yeah?" Demedais turns.
[22:17] <Seira> "Speaking of Malmuthian spies," she says, frowning. "And other spies, really. It might be best for you to put an extra effort to guarding that shield. Especially since it also doubles as a key for the gate."
[22:17] * Ko-nata (~dunefar@ip70-177-232-165.hr.hr.cox.net) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
[22:18] <Demedais> "Acknowledged, but I've not been sure how precisely to protect it." Demedais says, frowning as well.
[22:19] <Seira> "You're in luck! I happen to specialize in security for objects of importance, both via magical ways and more mundane ones." She smiles at that. "No one expects the latter!"
[22:20] * Demedais nods. "I've been meaning to ask you about it, but kept forgetting, stupid as that sounds. So what would you suggest?"
[22:23] <Seira> "Well. There are the basic divinations, if we start with magic. Magical auras disrupt each other, but for something at an artifact level... I doubt anything past the temple's altar would work, so if you keep it at the temple, that might fool people at a glance. The thick walls of the compound would aid as well. As for the item itself, a container made of lead would be sufficient to foil many of the more advanced divination magics."
[22:24] <Demedais> "Mmm. Which would stop magical scrying, which is on the level of people who would seek to use it as a key." Demedais nods. "I see. And as for the normal theives?
[22:25] <Seira> Seira's smile twists, turning vicious. "I'll be more than happy to set something up for you."
[22:25] * Demedais eyes Seira. "Mmm. Out of curiousity... Shamal's magic bag. Does that protect items from scrying?"
[22:28] * Nerem (~Lorei@pool-71-252-177-95.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[22:28] <Seira> "It stores its contents on the ethereal, if I'm not mistaken. I could be, planes are not my specialty. In any case, there is the slight danger of something going horribly wrong in a battle and then you'll never find your things again. A pretty bad risk for an artifact, though if you're storing it during a battle you're doing something wrong." She shrugs. "I suppose if you have a few thousand gold to spare, you could buy one as well."
[22:30] <Demedais> "I was simply thinking that, given the fact that quite often we're traveling, a portable protection would be useful. But a lead container, well locked, should work for here."
[22:31] <Seira> "I'll set up such lethal traps even Helm himself would think twice," Seira offers proudly, before blinking. "Not that he, err, would try to steal from you."
[22:32] <Demedais> "Uh. We don't exactly want me to die if I manage to fuck it up." Demedais coughs.
[22:33] <Seira> "There will be simple instructions for you to follow. Or I could just make them recognize the owner. Whichever works."
[22:36] <Demedais> "That second one would be far preferable." Demedais nods. "I'll notify the Temple that I'm having a large metal box added to my room, then."
[22:37] <Seira> "...or you could keep it quiet outside of the leadership of the temple, so no rumors of something stealing-worthy in your humble room appear."
[22:40] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-5444c711.lns1-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[22:40] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[22:41] <Demedais> "I think they'll notice a metal box being carted in. Nevertheless, yes, only the High Priest and Father Ceiar will be notified.
[22:42] * Shamal (WinNT@user-5444c711.lns1-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (Ping timeout)
[22:45] <Seira> "Smuggling helps with that," Seira says, nodding. "In any case, it's best to settle the matter before our new friends arrive."

[23:21] <Demedais> <Demedais> "Acknowledged, but I've not been sure how precisely to protect it." Demedais says, frowning as well.
[23:21] <Demedais> <Seira> "You're in luck! I happen to specialize in security for objects of importance, both via magical ways and more mundane ones." She smiles at that. "No one expects the latter!"
[23:21] <Demedais> * Demedais nods. "I've been meaning to ask you about it, but kept forgetting, stupid as that sounds. So what would you suggest?"
[23:21] <Demedais> <Seira> "Well. There are the basic divinations, if we start with magic. Magical auras disrupt each other, but for something at an artifact level... I doubt anything past the temple's altar would work, so if you keep it at the temple, that might fool people at a glance. The thick walls of the compound would aid as well. As for the item itself, a container made of lead would be sufficient to foil many of the more advanced divin
[23:21] <Demedais> <Demedais> "Mmm. Which would stop magical scrying, which is on the level of people who would seek to use it as a key." Demedais nods. "I see. And as for the normal theives?
[23:21] <Demedais> <Seira> Seira's smile twists, turning vicious. "I'll be more than happy to set something up for you."
[23:21] <Demedais> * Demedais eyes Seira. "Mmm. Out of curiousity... Shamal's magic bag. Does that protect items from scrying?"
[23:21] <Demedais> * Joins: Nerem (~Lorei@pool-71-252-177-95.dllstx.fios.verizon.net)
[23:21] <Demedais> <Seira> "It stores its contents on the ethereal, if I'm not mistaken. I could be, planes are not my specialty. In any case, there is the slight danger of something going horribly wrong in a battle and then you'll never find your things again. A pretty bad risk for an artifact, though if you're storing it during a battle you're doing something wrong." She shrugs. "I suppose if you have a few thousand gold to spare, you could b
[23:21] <Demedais> <Demedais> "I was simply thinking that, given the fact that quite often we're traveling, a portable protection would be useful. But a lead container, well locked, should work for here."
[23:21] <Demedais> <Seira> "I'll set up such lethal traps even Helm himself would think twice," Seira offers proudly, before blinking. "Not that he, err, would try to steal from you."
[23:21] <Demedais> <Demedais> "Uh. We don't exactly want me to die if I manage to fuck it up." Demedais coughs.
[23:21] <Demedais> <Seira> "There will be simple instructions for you to follow. Or I could just make them recognize the owner. Whichever works."
[23:22] <Demedais> <Demedais> "That second one would be far preferable." Demedais nods. "I'll notify the Temple that I'm having a large metal box added to my room, then."
[23:22] <Demedais> <Seira> "...or you could keep it quiet outside of the leadership of the temple, so no rumors of something stealing-worthy in your humble room appear."
[23:22] <Demedais> * Joins: Ebiris (WinNT@user-5444c711.lns1-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk)
[23:22] <Demedais> * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[23:22] <Demedais> <Demedais> "I think they'll notice a metal box being carted in. Nevertheless, yes, only the High Priest and Father Ceiar will be notified.
[23:22] <Demedais> * Quits: Shamal (WinNT@user-5444c711.lns1-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk) (Ping timeout)
[23:22] <Demedais> <Seira> "Smuggling helps with that," Seira says, nodding. "In any case, it's best to settle the matter before our new friends arrive."
[23:23] <Demedais> OOC: This next part comes before the first line up there.
[23:23] <Demedais> * Shamal likewise salutes and heads off, having lots of work of her own to do!
[23:23] <Demedais> * Demedais also salutes, and heads off to the temple, with a lot to think about. Including how to protect the shield...
[23:23] <Demedais> <Seira> "Demedais!" Seira calls out to him once they've left the debfiefing.
[23:23] <Demedais> <Demedais> "Yeah?" Demedais turns.
[23:23] <Demedais> <Seira> "Speaking of Malmuthian spies," she says, frowning. "And other spies, really. It might be best for you to put an extra effort to guarding that shield. Especially since it also doubles as a key for the gate."
[23:28] <Shamal> roll 1d100
[23:28] * Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d100 and gets 54."12 [1d100=54]

[20:19] <Kotono> The party rests for a short period. But soon messengers come, from Commander Oberuth and summoning them to the front gates. Yet the streets are calm as can be under the circumstances, as you find the Commander there. He awaits, as a small detachment of people wearing Malmuthian uniforms approach. The sun sets behind them, spilling orange/red rays as a backdrop to their approach...
[20:21] * Demedais salutes the Commander, then glances out to the approaching group. "Our 'comrades', eh?" Demedais says.
[20:21] * Shamal approaches with Laika in tow, greeting the commander with a salute. "Reporting as ordered, sir," she tells him, before looking over to appraise the approaching Malmuthian contingent.
[20:25] * Seira is there, although remaining quiet and melting into the background.
[20:27] <Kotono> As the party gathers, they can see three in particular head the way. Ahead of a few common soldiers keeping a loose escort, a huge man approaches. He is easily over six feet tall,  short cropped black hair and a grim expression. He wears platemail tinged blue, a giant two handed sword at his back, a long sword at his belt along with a war mace. His horse is a white charger, bearing his weight with ease. Behind him is a near giant of a horse,
[20:27] <Kotono> Behind him is a near giant of a horse, brown and heavy. It's rider is a contrast, a small little man with mostly closed eyes. He wears a loose fitting brown cloak over his frame, hiding it. AT the rear, riding a gray stallion, comes a younger man. (More)
[20:29] <Kotono> He wears platemail as well, a shield slung across his back. He carries no visible weapon, yet stands as tall as if he carried an entire arsenal in his hands. His gaze is unrelenting, piercing, sweeping over everything at once. As they approach, the warrior at front inclines his head. "Hellmen Oberuth. It's an honor to meet you in better circumstances," he greets, then looks over to the others.
[20:31] * Shamal doesn't look nearly as imposing as this lot, bereft of either weapons or armour, but she still holds herself up with quiet dignity as she returns the gazes sent her way, Laika sitting obediently to her side.
[20:31] * Demedais inclines his head respectfully, before glancing over the three Malmuthian warriors, waiting for Commander Oberuth to introduce them.
[20:32] <Kotono> "General Olburt," OBeruth inclines his head respectfully enough, "We welcome you to our nation as a gesture of cooperation and friendship in light of crisis. If I may..." Looking towards Shamal first, "Shamal, Demedais, Seira." His lips twiches up, smiling, "Perhaps you've heard of them?"
[20:33] <Shamal> Shamal's lips twitch, but she refrains from saying anything disparaging about a certain bard.
[20:33] <Kotono> "I'm afraid not," he answers, looking towards them as the other two trot up. "I was recalled from another post specifically for this mission." Yet he looks over them, on Demedais in particular. "Are they the Crimson Guard that Lord Almand spoke of?"
[20:34] <Seira> "We're just the pages. The real Guard is late."
[20:34] <Kotono> "They are," THe small man calls, just loud enough to be faintly heard, smiling at Seira's words. "Captain Shamal Velka...Captain Seira the half elf blooded, Liuetenant Demedais?" He lists off the names easily. "I've heard of them, sir."
[20:34] * Shamal glances at Seira and raises an eyebrow. Kicking her shins would probably be inappropriate...
[20:35] * Demedais steps back and eyes Seira, before nodding to the small man.
[20:36] <Seira> "Your horse is so large," Seira tells the small man. "I am impressed, despite myself."
[20:36] <Kotono> "Very well." The third man steps forward, "I am Claris Brightsuns. In the name of the eternal Lightgiver, I give my protection to this city."
[20:37] <Kotono> The small man smiles a bit, but seem sto just huddle down further on his horse. "Mmmm...I suppose," he murmurs, stroking his horse's mane.
[20:38] <Shamal> "I look forward to working with all of you," Shamal nods politely to the trio. "May we teach Kondrux a lesson in manners, yet."
[20:38] <Kotono> "Well met, then." Oberuth speaks this, "We have rooms prepared in the garrison."
[20:39] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 watch. Me. Faiiil this.
[20:39] * Kotono sets mode: +v Reiko-chan
[20:39] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10 since I don't know offhand
[20:39] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+10 1,0since I don't know offhand --> 1,0[ 1d20=8 ]12,0{18}
[20:39] <Demedais> roll 1d20+7 religion check
[20:39] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Demedais rolled :1,0 1d20+7 1,0religion check --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{27}
[20:40] <Kotono> "Hah," Olburt chuckles despite himself, but his serious look never leaves his face. "We'll see. Let us retire a night, then."
[20:41] <Demedais> "A pleasure to meet you three, despite the situation that brings it about." Demedais nods.
[20:42] * Seira just looks curiously at the Malmuthians, not quite gawking.
[20:44] <Kotono> "Pleasure..." the man on the horse murmurs quietly. He glances towards Shamal, and then to Seira, "...I hear there is a new inn in this city. One modeled after a dragon...?"
[20:44] <Seira> "Ah, customers!" she exclaims.
[20:45] <Kotono> "Iw ould like to see it..." He murmurs, and with a nod to the General, "Sir, if I may...?"
[20:45] <Kotono> Olburt nods curtly, "I have no objection. Commander?"
[20:46] <Kotono> Oberuth considers just a moment before waving his hand. "Alright, if Seira has no objection." He turns back to the gates, beginning to walk in. "This way?"
[20:47] <Shamal> Since she hasn't been dismissed, Shamal follows the commander, Laika padding along silently beside her.
[20:47] <Kotono> As Oberuth passes by Seira, "If you do, keep an eye on him, obviously," he murmurs out of the corner of his mouth.
[20:48] <Seira> "Our rates are very reasonably," Seira comments, after nodding to the Commander.
[20:48] * Demedais follows a step or two behind the procession.
[20:49] <Kotono> The large charger trots along, towards Seira. "Pleasure," he repeats, falling into step with her. As they go, the procession continues onward. A few people linger to watch in curiosity, mixed expressions. "I haven't been to Balmuria in some time," General Olburt notes as you go along. OOC - #evil, Seira.
[20:51] <Shamal> "Since it was part of Malmuth?" Shamal asks, keeping her voice oh so pleasant and conversational.
[20:53] <Kotono> His tone is official, polite. "Yes, that's correct. I was stationed here at times. It is good that it grows." He looks about, eyeing each of the buildings. "Imagine that a dragon was sleeping next to us as we waged war. Yet it only took happenstance to wake it."
[20:54] * Shamal nods. "Certainly gave us a nasty surprise. Hopefully we can give it one in return."
[20:55] <Kotono> "Indeed. What are your plans?" Asking this as you ride towards the garrison, "The city has been fortified, but by reports that may do little to slow a dragon."
[20:55] * Demedais says nothing, simply reminiscing about when Balmuria was under Malmuthian control.
[21:00] * Shamal glances at Obureth, implicit is her question as to how much is to be volunteered.
[21:02] <Kotono> "We have our plans, ones that can be reviewed in the morrow." Leading them onto the garrison, "We'll deal with this on fresh sleep and good minds."
[21:03] * Demedais (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-196-48.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
[21:03] * Demedais (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-200-204.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) has joined #dunes
[21:04] <Kotono> Claris rides along, dropping back a few paces. "..hmmm. I have heard you are men and women of faith," he speaks.
[21:04] * Kotono sets mode: +o Demedais
[21:05] <Kotono> General Olburt nods curt agreement, heading onward and not belaboring things.
[21:05] <Demedais> "Indeed." Demedais nods to
[21:06] <Shamal> "I serve the Forest Queen," Shamal nods, looking towards Claris. "She and Lathander have always been close, so hopefully we can work well together," she smiles.
[21:07] <Demedais> "Indeed." Demedais nods to Claris, glancing him over again. "As she serves the Forest Queen, I serve Helm the Watcher."
[21:11] <Kotono> "I hope so as well," he offers them a dazzling, bright smile.
[21:13] <Kotono> So the garrison approaches, Commander Oberuth stopping. "There are pages to take you along," With a nod, "We all must prepare for tomorrow's meetings, so..."
[21:14] <Shamal> "By your leave," Shamal salutes the commander. "I'll see you all in the morning." So dismissed, she heads home.
[21:16] * Demedais salutes Oberuth as well. "I will return in the morning." he says succinctly, before heading back to the temple to rest for a spell.
[21:20] <Kotono> So the band parts ways for now, everyone going to rest...

[18:48] <Kotono> -----
[18:49] <Kotono> As the two part ways, Pallan stops to pet his horse again. "Good evening..." he murmurs quietly to Seira as they ride along. "...curious, a member of the guard opening an inn?"
[18:50] <Seira> "I have no idea who you are, really, and I'm not just saying that to be extra rude," Seira tells him bluntly. "Before I tell you more about myself, you really should do the same."
[18:52] <Kotono> He seems to smile even as he shrinks into his cowl. "Pallan of Turnsdale. I specialise in certain discreet matters. For when the frontal approaches lack."
[18:53] <Seira> "Doesn't the large, visible and memorable horse make this difficult?" she asks curiously.
[18:54] <Kotono> Petting his horse a few more times, "Nyth is special..." he murmurs, a note of affection in his voice. "I hear your friend relies on wolves and dogs to do her work?"
[18:55] * Seira nods. "Yep. Same thing for you, then?"
[19:01] * Demedais (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-196-48.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
[19:02] * Demedais (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-200-204.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) has joined #evildunes
[19:02] <Kotono> "We know how to get along..." he pats his horse a few more times. "I also hear that you are a superb shot with the bow, and excellent at magecraft?"
[19:04] <Seira> "Go on, praise me more," she says, smiling widely. "Though it might just be empty words, as so many rumors are."
[19:06] <Kotono> He laughs at that, hood sagging forward. "I don't think so...." he says, going quiet at Seira leads him along.
[19:07] <Seira> "Any chance of you having a plan to deal with the dragon that is not all 'Forward, men! CHAAAARGE!'?" Seira asks him, tilting her head as she walks.
[19:11] <Kotono> "..mmm. I may," he allows quietly, "I may."
[19:11] <Seira> "Now is a great time to share it." Seira nods to herself. "Please do!"
[19:16] <Kotono> "Now then..." He begins to smile as you approach up the hill towards Seira's inn. "A dragon is almost invulnerable. It's scales are harder than platemail and it's body has the strength of a hundred men. ....but, it's not very fast at all."
[19:16] <Seira> "Contact poison to seal his movements?"
[19:17] <Kotono> "Mmm, yes. Along those lines," he raises an eyebrow at Seira, "Attack it's flank...as quickly as you can with that and try to incapacitate it. Get it on the ground so it can't use it's main advantage against you."
[19:20] * Seira smirks. "Not bad. We're still going to die, but he will feel this in the morning."
[19:22] <Kotono> "It's a beginning..." Chuckling as she speaks, "We simply lack the means to directly hurt it. General Olburt will break his mace, his swords and his body on it's scales with nary an impact. Most spells with tear apart like ribbons when cast..."
[19:23] <Seira> "Does make one wonder why this tribute is simply not paid," Seira muses. "Had it decided to make you his first stop, what would you have done?"
[19:24] <Kotono> "Hid," he speaks, matter of fact. "I have little intentino of picking a fight I can't win."
[19:27] <Seira> "Well, if you've come here to hide, you will get a chance to do so in the most comfortable of suites Balmuria has!" Seira announces, and opens the door to the inn.
[19:29] <Kotono> So he enters, looking around. People mingle and congregate here - Donald is drinking at the bar. In a corner near the fireplace, a man wrapped in white sits, occasionally sipping a glass of wine and lost in thought. A pleasant place, serene. "...I'll go take care of my horse..." he murmurs, patting him. "Get him to the setable."
[19:30] <Seira> "I'll accompany you, and not because you're from a foreign country and very suspicious by your very own admission," she says cheerfully, showing him to the stables.
[19:32] <Kotono> As Seira leads him along, he finally dismounts his horse. He barely reaches it's shoulders, patting it side as he settles in. He goes to a trailbag, taking something out and feeding it to his horse. "Good...good..." he murmurs as the horse eats.
[19:33] <Seira> "How's Malmuth?" Seira asks suddenly. "Things going well? War plans coming along nicely?"
[19:36] <Kotono> As his horse eats, the food hidden and gobbled away. "...hm?" Cocking his head to the side, "War? I think you misunderstand..." Closing his eyes, tiredly, "...I have nothing to with any of that. Even if I did...we're a peaceful nation. Our King wishes us to be strong, nothing more."
[19:36] <Seira> "Oh! Right! How silly of me!" Seira laughs. "We are also very peaceful, of course!"
[19:37] <Kotono> "Naturally." Finishing with his horse and dusting little chunks of something from his hands, "Could I see my room now...please?"
[19:37] * Seira shows him to the room, which is incidentally next door to Donald's.
[19:38] <Kotono> So he goes, quietly going inside to rest...OOC - Doing anything else, Seira?
[19:39] <Seira> OOC: Just telling Donald this guy is an evil enemy thief and to watch him like a hawk. Without insulting a fellow customer!
[19:39] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.

[21:44] <Kotono> --
[21:45] <Kotono> The next morning blooms. The party meets with Commander Oberuth early, the fouralone. Once everyone sits, "Alright. It's going to be another clear day, perfect for a dragon attack. Sooo..." Breathing out, "We need to decide on our plans, doubly so nowt hat they're here."
[21:46] <Shamal> "Are we going to use the True Name as our first recourse, or attempt to battle the dragon, first?" Shamal asks after settling down in her chair.
[21:47] <Kotono> "That will require one of you to face the dragon head on, hoping it works." Looking to each of them, "If so, volunteers? If we do that and it fails, I know we'll have to fight, and perhaps down a man."
[21:48] <Demedais> "I will." Demedais says simply.
[21:48] <Seira> "I've been thinking about a command," Seira says then. "What about one that tells the dragon to stay in his cave for a centure or two?"
[21:49] <Kotono> "Will that work?" Oberuth asks, looking to Seira. "It would solve all the problems at once."
[21:50] <Demedais> "And have his anger unleashed on the town after that time? Uh. No, not unless we plan on killing it after that." Demedais disagrees. "And if we manage to fail... Mmmph."
[21:50] <Seira> "I know more about the nature of true names and how they work than what Ajan had told us. Any command will do, but the stronger the command, the more difficult it is on the person making the demand."
[21:50] <Shamal> "The simpler the command the better," Shamal nods.
[21:50] * Seira shrugs. "And we can simply train in leisure, collect proper resources, and go to him collapsing the cave."
[21:51] <Shamal> "And given his ire at being roused, perhaps telling him to return to his lair and sleep may not be resisted too much," the blonde posits.
[21:52] <Demedais> "So, essentially... 'Sleep deeply for a century'?" Demedais asks, now curious.
[21:52] <Seira> "Hmm. Sleep deeply for as long as Balmuria stands, perhaps?" Seira muses. "It might give our Malmuthian friends pause, too, if they plan on taking their war through our city."
[21:53] <Kotono> "It may work..." Oberuth breathes out, an agreeable nod. "It may just." He begins to smile, "If it does we can end this irritation, send them back to Malmuth and get on with our normal duties."
[21:54] <Demedais> "Seira, that... may indeed be the best way to work it." Demedais nods. "But can we give such a powerful command to it? I would think it would fight it."
[21:54] <Shamal> roll 1d20+10
[21:54] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+10 --> 1,0[ 1d20=3 ]12,0{13}
[21:54] <Seira> "It can't, for true names are the dragons' weakness."
[21:55] * Seira frowns. "That spell you used in the ruins, it might be best to stock up on it. If the command weakens you as I suspect, you might need it."
[21:55] <Shamal> "I can bolster you beforehand as well, if need be," Shamal volunteers. "In what respect will he be drained by using the Name?" she directs this question to Seira.
[21:56] * Demedais nods to Seira. "But don't we still need to, you know, give this command to his face?"
[21:57] <Seira> "You already volunteered, haven't you? And you're immune to his aura. Just act respectful, and agree to come listen to his demands. He is certain to have them, as he will return for... tribute."
[21:57] * Seira glances at Shamal. "In the manner I have hinted at, as well as a general frailness of body. The spell you like to rely as well as any healing ones would work, aiding Demedais's restoration."
[21:58] <Demedais> "Ah. I was thinking... mmm. That adds another element to the command, though, doesn't it? 'Fly back to your cave and sleep deeply until Balmuria falls?'"
[21:58] <Seira> "What do you mean?"
[22:00] <Demedais> "I need to command him to do this, correct? And more complicated commands take more power, so... While I'm not afraid to give my all to do this, if I flop over dead halfway through the command I'm no help." Demedais says.
[22:02] <Seira> "Sir, I volunteer to deliver the command!" Seira states, turning to face Oberuth.
[22:03] * Shamal blinks at that sudden outburst. "... Seira?"
[22:03] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-252-177-95.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[22:03] <Seira> "I believe in this plan fully. I will not fail," she states firmly, before adding, "If there are concerns over risks, I will take them!"
[22:05] <Kotono> "Seira?" Oberuth considers this a moment, before shaking his head. "Demedais raised a good point, he's immune to the dragon's fear. You'd also be more useful as a mage if things go afoul. Why the sudden interest?"
[22:06] * Tai{Slwwpwr} (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-186-199.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) has joined #dunes
[22:06] <Seira> "This is the only way I have of convincing Demedais in the plan, Sir," she responds. "His life is not being gambled with. Absolutely not!"
[22:07] * Demedais (~ferixstad@adsl-76-235-200-204.dsl.klmzmi.sbcglobal.net) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Tai{Slwwpwr}))
[22:07] * Tai{Slwwpwr} is now known as Taishyr
[22:07] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Taishyr
[22:07] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[22:07] * NeremWorld (~Lorei@pool-71-252-177-95.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
[22:08] * Demedais glances at Seira. "And I do not intend to either." Demedais matches her tone, glaring a bit either. "If there's anyone that should do this, it is me; if I understood Ajan correctly, this is a physical drain, something I'm far better equipped for anyway." He shakes his head at Seira. "I am not in doubt of this plan; I simply question how strong of a command should be given. If you believe he will follow this as readil
[22:10] <Demedais>  as readily as a simpler command? Then I trust you on that." he finishes, staring at Seira.
[22:10] <Seira> "If the command is too simple, we have gained nothing and revealed our trump to the dragon and Malmuth alike," Seira counters, frowning. "The command must suffice to remove the imminent threat and allow for proper preparation, yet not be complicated enough to take all of your life." She thinks hard, before saying, "Yes, I believe this command will work, and leave you with your life."
[22:14] <Demedais> "Very well, then." Demedais nods, smiling. "We have the main plan. Shall we continue reviewing the backup plans, or...?"
[22:16] <Kotono> "We'll save that for when the others arrive." Oberuth amkes a very visible face, a near grimace. "No need to repeat ourselves twice over to them."
[22:16] <Seira> "Yes," Seira states matter of factly. "In case the dragon somehow finds a loophole, or your command is interrupted... in any case, we can give out more than one command. Sealing the dragon's movement by commanding it not to take flight, ordering it to turn off its aura... all can be useful."
[22:17] * Seira shrugs. "Please keep them in mind, everyone. If it comes to a fight after all, we still don't have to fight it at full strength."
[22:18] * Shamal nods. "It could even be commanded to disable its ability to resist spells... although its innate defences would still be formidable, this would still give us a chance."
[22:18] <Seira> "And not to cast any of his own, of course."
[22:19] <Kotono> "Of course," Oberuth murmurs as he thinks. He stands a moment, "Carry on, I should see how our guests fare and that they'll join us soon." His scowl lingers until he goes out of the room.
[22:20] <Demedais> "I wonder. Would a 'Siddown and shut yer mouth' work efficiently?" Demedais chuckles.
[22:21] <Seira> "The 'sit, boy!' command?" Seira asks, raising an eyebrow. "It should. You'll be dead for daring that, however."
[22:22] <Demedais> "Well, true."
[22:22] <Shamal> "Wouldn't stop it leaning over and clawing you in half," Shamal agrees. "We should simply try and remove it first - if that fails we can attempt other commands as we fight it."
[22:23] <Seira> "And if at all possible, keep the name itself out of Malmuth's hands. Possibly our way of commanding it, too," Seira suggests. "If all goes well, we could simply tell them we decided to negotiate a costly settlement."
[22:25] <Kotono> So Commander Oberuth returns, a brief knock on the door first. The three Malmuthians come with him, sitting opposite the heroes. "Now then..." Oberuth breaths out, "We'll begin..."
[22:26] * Shamal nods in greeting to the new arrivals, deferring to the commander to lead the discussion.
[22:26] * Demedais nods as well, leaning back in his chairs in a slightly relaxed position.
[22:28] <Kotono> After some brief opening discussions, "Now then," Oberuth agrees, "At the moment, I'd rather havet het hree of you be a strategic reserve. We're going to need more than one wave if things go south and the three of you likely have established teamwork?"
[22:29] <Kotono> "We've worked together before," Olburt is agreeable, bowing his head, "We've been instructed to reasonably follow your leads."
[22:29] <Kotono> Claris clears his throat, "Before that, I can work relief for the wounded and come into battle as wished."
[22:30] <Seira> "It would help if you were to support the evacuation, if things turn ugly."
[22:32] <Kotono> "Yes, that would help..." Oberuth nods in agreement, "Our first force will be Demedais, Shamal and Seira. If they have to fall back inside, reinforcements will come to their sides. If they stand firm and gain an advantage, all reinforcements will come forward and attempt to end things swiftly."
[22:32] <Shamal> "Can you cast dispel magic, Claris?" Shamal asks. "Having that prepared to counterspell anything the dragon casts, while being on standby to provide healing and support if needed would be invaluable."
[22:32] <Kotono> Pallan lingers back, bowing his head. "...Just give me a chance..." he murmurs, "If all else fails."
[22:33] * Demedais glances at Seira, before looking to Claris. "Ah. Sir Claris, do you possess a magic that could boost my constitution? Since I will be the lead man, quite frankly if everything goes haywire I'd like to be able to hold him off as long as possible as everyone prepares to strike."
[22:33] <Kotono> "I can," Claris agrees, "I can manage that as well with prayer. Dispel magic and Bear's Fortitude? If you excuse me, I must go to pray."
[22:35] <Kotono> "Well then.." Oberuth watches him leave, "The traps are also prepared..." he begins to note, "Our archers have..."
[22:36] <Demedais> "That would be appreciated, Sir Claris." Demedais inclines his head. "And as for you, Pallan, I assure you that any help given will be greatly appreciated."
[22:38] <Kotono> "I'll manage..." he whispers, listening as Commander Oberuth goes over more mundane matters. OOC - Do you guys want to skip ahead a bit?
[22:38] <Shamal> OOC: if there's nothing else.
[22:38] <Demedais> OOC: Sure, assuming nothing else of note.
[22:40] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[22:40] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d4 --> 1,0[ 1d4=3 ]12,0{3}
[22:44] <Kotono> The day begins to trickle by. Noon comes and passes, plans prepared.  As that afternoon stretches on, the three in the meeting room with Commander Oberuth and General Olburt, "...then, if that score of soldiers can counter..." the discussion rages on, as the sound of quick knocking is heard on the door.
[22:46] <Kotono> "Enter," Oberuth calls, stretching his neck up. On those words, a page enters. He's red faced, panting. Forgoing a salute, "S-s-sir! Watchmen at the gate reported seeing something flying in the sky on the horizon! It was big!"
[22:46] * Shamal swiftly rises to her feet. "It appears we're out of time," she observes grimly.
[22:47] <Kotono> "Maybe..." Oberuth breaths out, doing the same as Shamal, "General, get your men ready to support. Shamal, Seira, Demedais, to the gate!" He draws his sword, as you can hear sounds starting to fill the halls.
[22:47] * Demedais bolts up. "Well, then. It appears we have company." Demedais says softly as he begins moving out the door, wasting no time in moving to the gate!
[22:48] * Seira heads for the gate as well, aiming to stand her ground near one of the trebuchets.
[22:50] * Shamal begins to cast a pair of spells on the paladin as she follows Demedais. "Thunder's fury, I placate you in Mielikki's name, watch over this holy warrior!" "Wisdom and insight beyond compare, let this one perceive things more truly." That done, she gives him a smile and wishes him good luck before she heads for the battlements above the gate.
[22:51] <Kotono> So the party races to the gate! The city is alive - the normal residents scurrying into homes and away, whiel guards prepare! As they reach outside, they see that the horizon past the gate is currently quiet to a casual glance...
[22:52] * Shamal peers into the distance from the battlements, speaking to one of the nearby archers. "We got word something was seen on the horizon - did you see it?"
[22:53] <Kotono> "Yeah," The archer is a fairly older man, grim faced as he readies his bow with steady hands. "It was a blur, but it was flying around!" He points straight ahead.
[22:53] <Kotono> OOC - Spot check, Shamal.
[22:53] <Shamal> roll 1d20+12
[22:53] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+12 --> 1,0[ 1d20=2 ]12,0{14}
[22:54] <Shamal> OOC: reroll~
[22:54] <Shamal> roll 1d20+12
[22:54] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+12 --> 1,0[ 1d20=19 ]12,0{31}
[22:57] <Shamal> "I see it," Shamal murmurs, before taking a second to appraise how the archers are lined up on the wall. If they're not already, she directs them to stand in a staggered line, one set behind the other, informing them that this formation would prevent the dragon's breath weapon from taking them all out no matter how he lined it up.
[22:58] * Demedais draws his sword and nods. "Very well, gentlemen. Stay firm, and prepare yourselves for what is to come!" He then looks at Shamal. "You see the dragon, then?"
[23:00] <Shamal> "I think so - it's hard to make out clearly!" Shamal calls down, before looking for Seira and Obureth and then casting Message to link them all so they can talk without yelling. "It's too far for me to tell its direction, yet."
[23:00] <Kotono> Oberuth stays a bit inside the gate, barking commands. "Start preparing to invesigate any houses near the west end of the city - if we have to, w'ell need that emptied already1"
[23:01] <Demedais> "Very well. Out of curiousity, how good of hearing does a dragon have?" Demedais asks.
[23:02] <Kotono> Slowly it begins to rise on the horizon - th esun starts to fade. Not from the sunset, but from something blocking it.  Something in the sky, shadowed by all the light that forms the shilloette around it - of a great winged lizard in the air, slowly approaching.
[23:03] <Shamal> "Extremely good," Shamal replies, her breath quickening as the dragon's form becomes clearer.
[23:04] <Kotono> Around, guards begint o watch, a few already shaking lightly. "Oh Gods, please no..." A younger one breathes, as you can note Pollyanna climbing onto the battlements near Shamal. She carries her quiver of arrows, eyes dead narrowed.  The dragon slowly approaches, an artifical night beginning to fall over Balmuria with each flap of it's wings, closer and closer!
[23:04] * Seira remains ready to activate the part of city defenses under her control should it become necessary, but otherwise is content to observe the dragon.
[23:05] * Shamal resists the urge to cast reduce person, since the men probably wouldn't be inspired. Instead she casts mirror image. "Calm yourself - we have a plan to deal with the dragon without fighting, but if it fails we'll need everyone here at their best," she tells the archers around her.
[23:05] <Shamal> roll 1d4+2
[23:05] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d4+2 --> 1,0[ 1d4=4 ]12,0{6}
[23:06] <Demedais> "Mmm. Just trying to judge how loudly I'll have to say it." Demedais glances around for Claris. "Mmm... question. How would the dragon be able to tell Balmuria will last? In other words, will saying 'sleep deeply until Balmuria falls' work or should I shift to 'sleep deeply for a hundred years'?"
[23:06] <Kotono> Beneath, you can hear citizens starting to panic, as the dragon approaches! It begins to gleam, like crushed sapphires molded into a statuette. Closer and closer, beginning to descent! This allows the sun to arch over it's head, blinding against the darkness of it's blocked lower half. At about three hundred feet away, "HUMANS! I DEMAND TRIBUTE OR YOUR CITY WILL BE ASHES ON THE WIND! BRING IT FORTH TO ME!" 
[23:07] * Shamal moves over towards Pollyanna. "I know you have more reason than most to want it dead, but hold until Demedais finishes what he has to. If he succeeds then no one will have to die here - and people certainly will if this comes to a fight," she whispers tersely, hoping the younger woman takes her words seriously.
[23:08] <Kotono> Claris is not around, hanging back and out of easy range to be talked to. Meanwhile, Pollyanna doesn't reply - she does have an arrow drawn, intently staring ahead.
[23:09] <Demedais> "Let's rock, bastard." Demedais says underneath his breath before going out to face the dragon! "Dragon, I have something to say to you first."
[23:09] <Shamal> "The magic will ensure the dragon knows, Demedais," Shamal mouths, the words not audible in the least. Sadly she's forced to divert her attention, ready to interfere with Pollyanna if she attempts to defy orders.
[23:09] <Kotono> OOC - Make will saves, by the by. Deme is immune.
[23:10] <Shamal> roll 1d20+14
[23:10] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+14 --> 1,0[ 1d20=6 ]12,0{20}
[23:10] <Seira> roll 1d20+3
[23:10] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Seira rolled :1,0 1d20+3 --> 1,0[ 1d20=14 ]12,0{17}
[23:10] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[23:10] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+4 --> 1,0[ 1d20=1 ]12,0{5}
[23:10] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[23:10] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 --> 1,0[ 1d20=8 ]12,0{11}
[23:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[23:11] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+9 --> 1,0[ 1d20=3 ]12,0{12}
[23:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20
[23:11] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+20 --> 1,0[ 1d20=15 ]12,0{35}
[23:11] <Seira> OOC: My bad, actually +5 so 19
[23:13] <Kotono> A blanket of fear settles onto the city as Kondrux lands! He flies close, looking down at the tiny walls and the insignifigant paladin in front of him. "Human..." he rumbles, "Have you brought fourth whatI demand?" His face leans in, sparking with lighting as he stares at the one of the two people outside of thew alls.
[23:16] <Demedais> "No." Demedais says flatly.  "Janalaxaj, I command you under your true name to return immediately to your dwelling and slumber deeply, not to awaken while Balmuria still stands!"
[23:16] <Kotono> OOC - Wisdom check.
[23:17] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4 Oh dear
[23:17] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Demedais rolled :1,0 1d20+4 1,0Oh dear --> 1,0[ 1d20=7 ]12,0{11}
[23:17] <Kotono> roll 1d20-5
[23:17] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20-5 --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{15}
[23:18] <Seira> Seira watches intently for the outcome, ready to trigger the device she is guarding and assist Demedais with their backup commands should things go afoul.
[23:19] <Kotono> Kondrux roars! The sound nearly shatters Balmuria into two, it's wings flapping a gale forward! A gale that could dismember another dragon, making the walls quiver! "HOW?!" he screams at the top of his lungs, making the sky quake!  But it drags it's head down, "I WILL CAST YOUR SOUL INTO THE ABYSS!" It's voice is a screetch, it's body straining! OOC - Seira can take her readied action if she wants, then initiative.
[23:21] * Seira cuts the rope holding the bag of contact poison flying at the dragon, just as the words to a spell come to her lips!
[23:22] <Kotono> OOC: Make your attack roll. It's AC is borked since it's contact and he's rather distracted at the moment, so just don't 1.
[23:23] <Seira> roll 1d20+8 touch
[23:23] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Seira rolled :1,0 1d20+8 1,0touch --> 1,0[ 1d20=4 ]12,0{12}
[23:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[23:23] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+18 --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{34}
[23:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[23:23] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+18 --> 1,0[ 1d20=14 ]12,0{32}
[23:24] <Kotono> OOC - Initiatives and reactions.
[23:24] <Kotono> The poison trap flies forth, salmming into the dragon's scales! But it barely seems to notice as it roars, thrashing it's long tail! It looks furious, lighting crackling around it's body!
[23:24] <Shamal> "Fire!" Shamal yells to the archers, now able to let Pollyanna do as she pleases, while preparing her own magic.
[23:24] <Shamal> roll 1d20+2
[23:24] <Seira> roll 1d20+10 Nerveskitter, man, so unfair
[23:24] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+2 --> 1,0[ 1d20=15 ]12,0{17}
[23:24] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Seira rolled :1,0 1d20+10 1,0Nerveskitter, man, so unfair --> 1,0[ 1d20=18 ]12,0{28}
[23:24] * Demedais grimaces and readies himself to try again, assuming his survival!
[23:24] <Kotono> roll 1d20 dragon
[23:24] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20 1,0dragon --> 1,0[ 1d20=3 ]12,0{3}
[23:25] <Demedais> roll 1d20
[23:25] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Demedais rolled :1,0 1d20 --> 1,0[ 1d20=3 ]12,0{3}
[23:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+1 Oberuth
[23:25] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+1 1,0Oberuth --> 1,0[ 1d20=3 ]12,0{4}
[23:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[23:25] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+3 --> 1,0[ 1d20=10 ]12,0{13}
[23:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20 archers group
[23:25] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20 1,0archers group --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{16}
[23:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+1
[23:25] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+1 --> 1,0[ 1d20=4 ]12,0{5}
[23:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
[23:25] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+8 --> 1,0[ 1d20=19 ]12,0{27}
[23:27] * Kotono changes topic to 'Seira(28)>????(27)>Shamal(17)>Archers(16)>Pollyanna(13)>Oberuth(4)>Dragon=Deme(3)'
[23:28] <Kotono> "Fire!" Oberuth is heard calling as well, dozens of commands flying inside of the gate! Chaos beginst o erupt, the battle joined! OOC - Seira's up first.
[23:29] <Seira> "Janalaxaj, under your true name I command you! You're not to use your breath or magic on any of us!" Seira calls out, giving a soldier under her command the signal to activate the second trebuchet!
[23:29] <Kotono> OOC - Wis check.
[23:29] <Seira> roll 1d20-4 can I roll in the negative?
[23:29] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Seira rolled :1,0 1d20-4 1,0can I roll in the negative? --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{12}
[23:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20-5
[23:29] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20-5 --> 1,0[ 1d20=18 ]12,0{13}
[23:30] <Kotono> The dragon writhes, slow to react but making a lot of noise! It begins to flap it's wings! OOC - Shamal is up.
[23:30] * Rei-chan (Rei-chan@user-54456b56.lns6-c11.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[23:30] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[23:30] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+18 --> 1,0[ 1d20=20 ]12,0{38}
[23:30] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[23:30] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+18 --> 1,0[ 1d20=16 ]12,0{34}
[23:30] * Shamal sets mode: -v+v Reiko-chan Rei-chan
[23:31] * Reiko-chan was kicked by Kotono (Got o your room.)
[23:33] * Shamal takes a deep breath before following Seira and Demedais' lead, trying her own command. "Hear me, Janalaxaj - by the pact of your True Name, I command you to suppress your natural defences and receive just punishment!" she yells, voice as stern as she can make it under these circumstances.
[23:33] <Kotono> OOC - Wis check.
[23:33] <Shamal> roll 1d20+3
[23:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{17}
[23:33] <Kotono> roll 1d20-5
[23:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kotono rolled :6,0 1d20-5 --> 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{13}

[22:59] * Shamal changes topic to 'Seira(28)>????(27)>Shamal(17)>Archers(16)>Pollyanna(13)>Oberuth(4)>Dragon=Deme(3) | Don't forget the Ballistae!'
[23:00] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20 ballista initiative. If they roll above Shamal they'll go on her tick
[23:00] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0ballista initiative. If they roll above Shamal they'll go on her tick --> 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{2}
[23:00] * Blondezilla changes topic to 'Seira(28)>????(27)>Shamal(17)>Archers(16)>Pollyanna(13)>Oberuth(4)>Dragon=Deme(3) >Ballisa(2)'
[23:00] <Blondezilla> OOC - Make a con check, Shamal.
[23:01] <Shamal> roll 1d20 stupid shaken state
[23:01] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0stupid shaken state --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{6}
[23:02] <Blondezilla> roll 1d10
[23:02] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d10 --> 6,0[ 1d10=4 ]4,0{4}
[23:04] <Blondezilla> As the words exit Shamal's mouth, she feels a vast weight on her! AS if she is grappling a magnitude with her soul, body trembling under the sudden weight of a galaxy! The dragon screams like a pierced bell despite this, the entire creation of the world quaking! Color bleeds a moment, everything flickering! The words from Kondrux's mouth are incoherent, brimming with rage! (More)
[23:05] <Blondezilla> Shamal's insides burn under this weight, her body screaming at her from a thousand points of pain! But she feels it, can feel it. All that power of Kondrux, buoyed against her own will, taking an enormous toll on her body! (4 con damage and 12 HP damage.)
[23:07] <Blondezilla> Kondrux screams during all of this, it's wings flapping in an errant, uncontrolled series of spasms! Yet it seems to comply, it's body's scales bulging out, nearly cracking! As this happens many archers flee, but a few hold and fire!
[23:07] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+3
[23:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{8}
[23:07] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+3
[23:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{8}
[23:07] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+3
[23:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{10}
[23:08] <Blondezilla> Even in this state the arrows rain down, but mostly bounce off it's body! Pollyanna breathes deep,b ut lets loose her own battlecry as she notches two arrows, flying!
[23:08] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+6
[23:08] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+6 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{20}
[23:08] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+1
[23:08] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+1 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{15}
[23:11] <Blondezilla> roll 1d8+2
[23:11] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d8+2 --> 6,0[ 1d8=7 ]4,0{9}
[23:11] <Blondezilla> roll 1d4
[23:11] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d4 --> 6,0[ 1d4=1 ]4,0{1}
[23:13] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+9
[23:13] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+9 --> 6,0[ 1d20=1 ]4,0{10}
[23:14] <Blondezilla> Even in this state the arrows rain down, but mostly bounce off it's body! Pollyanna breathes deep,b ut lets loose her own battlecry as she notches two arrows, flying! One wedges into it's cracked body, landing and making Kondrux's fury rise, weakening it's body!
[23:15] <Blondezilla> Commander Oberuth is heard calling, troops that didn't run, the few of them, organizing behind the gate and out of the main way, lances and spears! OOC - Demedais and the Dragon act on the same tick.
[23:17] <Blondezilla> roll 4d6
[23:17] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 4d6 --> 6,0[ 4d6=15 ]4,0{15}
[23:17] <Blondezilla> The dragon rears back, lighting crackling around it's mouth! IT eyes Demedais, the paladin it's first target! With a great cry, a sweltering line of lighting comes forth, looking to fry him! OOC - Make a reflex save and also take your action. It's breathing you with it's.
[23:20] <Demedais> Demedais grunts. *Helm, Watcher of All, give me strength...* "Janalaxaj! Under your true name, I command you to close your mouth and not move a muscle!" Demedais sees the lightning breath then and tries to roll out of the way, using the power of the Fifth Resort to assist!
[23:20] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10
[23:20] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+10 --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{26}
[23:20] <Blondezilla> roll 14d8
[23:20] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 14d8 --> 6,0[ 14d8=40 ]4,0{40}
[23:22] <Blondezilla> OOC - Wisdom check.
[23:22] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4
[23:22] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{20}
[23:22] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20-5
[23:22] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20-5 --> 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{4}
[23:22] <Blondezilla> OOC - Fort save.
[23:22] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10
[23:22] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+10 --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{22}
[23:23] <Blondezilla> OOC - Con check, I'm sorry. My fault.
[23:23] <Demedais> roll 1d20+2 you just wasted my good luck!
[23:23] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0you just wasted my good luck! --> 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{13}
[23:23] <Blondezilla> roll 1d10
[23:23] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d10 --> 6,0[ 1d10=9 ]4,0{9}
[23:25] <Blondezilla> The dragon's cries come to an end as Demedais feels the weight of the world on him! He seems to struggle, but the power of the word is enough! As Demedais is consumed in lighting, the dragon look sto be paralysed! OOC - 9 con damage and 12 damage.
[23:26] <Blondezilla> OOC - Seira, you can go while we sort out the numbers on #e.
[23:27] <Blondezilla> Demedais is fried on the spot, collapsing into a heap! All around him the ground is destroyed, small fires burning from electrical shock! A long tear in the ground in front and behind the gate, a massive discharge of lighting! Tehre the paladin lies, gravely wounded!
[23:29] * Seira is torn between taking this perfect opportunity to shoot at the dragon while it is at its most vulnerable, and saving their fallen paladin. In the end, she takes off towards Demedais, coming to rest near his fallen form, as a warm glow suffuses her hands!
[23:29] <Seira> roll 2d8+7
[23:29] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 2d8+7 --> 6,0[ 2d8=8 ]4,0{15}
[23:29] <Seira> "I am so killing you," she vows to Kondrux.
[23:30] <Blondezilla> The light fills Demedais's body, reinvigorating him! It's enough to let him hold on, horrific pressure and burns still weighing on his body and spirit! Meanwhile, the slightly delayed ballistas fire away at the dragon!
[23:30] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+8 really it's not moving much
[23:30] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+8 1,0really it's not moving much --> 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{21}
[23:30] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+8 really it's not moving much
[23:30] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+8 1,0really it's not moving much --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{11}
[23:30] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+8 really it's not moving much
[23:30] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+8 1,0really it's not moving much --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{20}
[23:30] * Seira glances up at the battlements. "Fire!" she calls out to the archers stationed there.
[23:31] <Blondezilla> roll 6d8
[23:31] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 6d8 --> 6,0[ 6d8=26 ]4,0{26}
[23:31] <Blondezilla> roll 2d4
[23:31] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 2d4 --> 6,0[ 2d4=7 ]4,0{7}
[23:31] <Blondezilla> OOC - Oh wait, forgot save again.
[23:31] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+9
[23:31] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+9
[23:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+9 --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{29}
[23:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+9 --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{12}
[23:32] <Blondezilla> roll 1d4
[23:32] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d4 --> 6,0[ 1d4=3 ]4,0{3}
[23:33] <Blondezilla> More poisoned loads slam into Kondrux, as arrows quickly follow! Below, the few soldiers surviving stare in openmouthed shock, including Wedge who gulps down and looks ahead at the dragon! But he stays firm, as they prepare!
[23:33] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+3 archers
[23:33] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+3 archers
[23:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+3 1,0archers --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{9}
[23:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+3 1,0archers --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{19}
[23:33] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+3 archers
[23:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+3 1,0archers --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{8}
[23:33] <Blondezilla> roll 1d8+1
[23:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d8+1 --> 6,0[ 1d8=5 ]4,0{6}
[23:33] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+9
[23:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+9 --> 6,0[ 1d20=3 ]4,0{12}
[23:33] <Blondezilla> roll 1d4
[23:33] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d4 --> 6,0[ 1d4=2 ]4,0{2}
[23:34] <Blondezilla> One arrow strikes him, diong a little more damage to it's majestic body! OOC - Shamal, I'm sorry, I skipped you. I don't know why I'm making this initaitive such a mess today. /topic #dunes
[23:37] <Shamal> Leaning heavily on the battlements, Shamal looks down at the stricken dragon in grim vindication, before reaching into her bag for a scroll while she summons an ally to her aid. Next to the theurge on the battlements, a gigantic dire tiger appears, growling down at the gigantic wyrm but holding its action in readiness for Shamal's command.
[23:38] * Blondezilla changes topic to 'Seira(28)>????(27)>Shamal(17)=Khan>Archers(16)>Pollyanna(13)>Oberuth(4)>Dragon=Deme(3) >Ballisa(2)'
[23:38] <Blondezilla> As Kondrux struggles, shaking and nearly frozen in place, Pollyanna readies more arrows! From behind you all can hear sounds, the sounds of perhaprs reinforncements organizing? But two arrwos fly...
[23:38] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+6
[23:38] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+6 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{20}
[23:38] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+1
[23:38] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+1 --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{7}
[23:38] <Blondezilla> roll 1d8+2
[23:38] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d8+2 --> 6,0[ 1d8=1 ]4,0{3}
[23:39] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+9
[23:39] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+9 --> 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{13}
[23:42] <Blondezilla> Another arrow, another minor wound! Kondrux has a few rivulets of blood showing, minor injuries to the great, cracked, warded dragon! Meanwhile, Commander Oberuth calls, "Charge after me and ready the nex reserve!" Oberuth calls, purple longsword drawn as he charges out the gate! "Reload the ballista!" So he rushes forward, his new longsword attempting to rip into the dragon!
[23:43] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+13
[23:43] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+13 --> 6,0[ 1d20=17 ]4,0{30}
[23:44] <Blondezilla> roll 1d8+2d6+8
[23:44] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d8+2d6+8 --> 6,0[ 1d8=3 2d6=4 ]4,0{15}
[23:45] <Blondezilla> Leaping up in a broad bodied charge, Commander Oberuth rips into the chest of the dragon! He grunts as scales are torn away, a shallow but still effective cut wrenched in, his sword drenched in dragonsblood as he manages to pull it back! OOC - Kondrux and Deme are up.
[23:47] <Blondezilla> Kondrux struggles, attempting to move it's head enough to bite Oberuth!
[23:47] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20-5 wis check for it
[23:47] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20-5 1,0wis check for it --> 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{13}
[23:48] <Blondezilla> Managing some form of this, Kondrux attemps it's powerful bite on the Commander!
[23:48] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+12
[23:48] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+12 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{22}
[23:49] * Demedais stands shakily, looking at the beast. "Best to finish this quickly... thanks to whichever of you healed me. Needed that." With that, Demedais slashes the blue dragon, holy energy prepared for a smite! Perhaps he can poke an eye out? OOC: Any attack bonus from his paralysis?
[23:50] <Blondezilla> roll 4d6+5
[23:50] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 4d6+5 --> 6,0[ 4d6=11 ]4,0{16}
[23:50] <Blondezilla> OOC: No, that's factoring into it's AC mess.
[23:50] <Demedais> OOC: Righty-o.
[23:50] <Demedais> roll 1d20+9 (5 PA, Smite)
[23:50] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+9 1,0(5 PA, Smite) --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{16}
[23:51] <Blondezilla> OOC - Hit.It's pretty defenseless right now.
[23:51] <Demedais> OOC: Sorry, factchecking on second roll.
[23:51] <Blondezilla> OOC: Okay.
[23:52] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1 (5 PA)
[23:52] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+1 1,0(5 PA) --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{11}
[23:52] <Blondezilla> OOC - First hit.
[23:52] <Demedais> roll 2d6+22
[23:52] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 2d6+22 --> 6,0[ 2d6=8 ]4,0{30}
[23:53] <Blondezilla> As Commander OBeruth loses a good part of his shoulder's flesh to a grazing bite, Demedais rips the throat of the dragon! It's still not a deep cut, but one that gets  afewtiny pressures of blood to splurt out, showing the damage done! Kondrux violently crackles with lighting, twitching in position! OOC - Seira.
[23:54] <Seira> "Bite someone your own size, idiot lizard!" Seira calls harshly in Draconic, her hands whirling through a dazzling pattern of sigils as she summons up a storm above its head, her control over magic enough to make it stop just short of the city's defenders.
[23:54] <Seira> roll 5d6 ice storm, stupid lizard
[23:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 5d6 1,0ice storm, stupid lizard --> 6,0[ 5d6=14 ]4,0{14}
[23:55] <Blondezilla> OOC - Caster level check.
[23:55] <Seira> roll 1d20+7
[23:55] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+7 --> 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{9}
[23:55] * Seira then makes a tactical retreat behind her massive catapult, clutching her bow.
[23:56] <Blondezilla> The ice rains down, but seems to have little effect on weakened Kondrux, as Seira hides for cover behind the trap she helped pay for! Behind, the few soldierst hat didn't run are staring on, readying to charge any moment! OOC - Shamal.
[23:57] * Shamal reads off from her scroll, the parchment crumbling to dust in her hands before she touches Khan's haunch, causing his teeth and claws to briefly glint with magic, before she dramatically points at the dragon. "In Mielikki's name, attack!" she yells, as Kahan emits a terrible roar of his own before pouncing from the battlements, straight at the dragon!
[23:58] <Shamal> roll 1d20+14 jump check DC 15 to reduce falling damage
[23:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+14 1,0jump check DC 15 to reduce falling damage --> 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{25}
[23:58] <Shamal> roll 1d20+22 claw 1
[23:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+22 1,0claw 1 --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{30}
[23:58] <Shamal> roll 1d20+22 claw 2
[23:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+22 1,0claw 2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{38}
[23:58] <Shamal> roll 1d20+16 bite
[23:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0bite --> 6,0[ 1d20=20 ]4,0{36}
[23:58] <Shamal> roll 1d20+20 rake 1
[23:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+20 1,0rake 1 --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{32}
[23:58] <Shamal> roll 1d20+20 rake 2
[23:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+20 1,0rake 2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=17 ]4,0{37}
[23:58] <Blondezilla> OOC - Crit check on bite.
[23:58] <Shamal> roll 1d20+16 bite crit
[23:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0bite crit --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{21}
[23:59] <Blondezilla> OOC - That went as well as possible. All hit and a crit. Jeez.
[23:59] <Shamal> roll 2d4+8+2d4+8+4d6+8+2d4+4+2d4+4
[23:59] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 2d4+8+2d4+8+4d6+8+2d4+4+2d4+4 --> 6,0[ 2d4=6 2d4=7 4d6=11 2d4=3 2d4=8 ]4,0{67}
Session Time: Mon Jul 02 00:00:00 2007
[00:00] <Shamal> roll 2d6 falling damage on Khan <_<
[00:00] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 2d6 1,0falling damage on Khan <_< --> 6,0[ 2d6=3 ]4,0{3}
[00:00] <Blondezilla> In a great tangle of claws and bites Khan lands, tearing into the dragon! It's a fury against a weakened target, ripping and clawing out great mouthfuls of dragon even as it lands! You hear further cries of shock, "D-demon cat is b-back?!" a guard is heard screaming. Meanwhile, the archers carefully load again and fire!
[00:00] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+3
[00:00] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{8}
[00:00] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+3
[00:00] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{9}
[00:00] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+3
[00:00] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+3 --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{15}
[00:00] <Shamal> "He's on our side!" Shamal yells down at the yellow-bellied guard.
[00:01] <Blondezilla> But the arrows bounnce off, having little effect! Pollyanna also readies, gulping down air even as her eyes burn with hate!
[00:01] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+6
[00:01] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+6 --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{22}
[00:01] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+1
[00:01] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+1 --> 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{19}
[00:01] <Blondezilla> roll 2d8+4
[00:01] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 2d8+4 --> 6,0[ 2d8=11 ]4,0{15}
[00:01] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+9
[00:01] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+9 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{19}
[00:01] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+9
[00:01] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+9 --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{28}
[00:02] <Blondezilla> Joining the dragon's wounds are twom more arrows, one landing with in an inch of it's eye! It's wounsd are considerable, enough to have rended part even Demedais twice over! Yet mighty Kondrux still struggles against his magical, cursed bonds!
[00:02] <Blondezilla> REeling from the bite, Oberuth digs in and calls, "FORWARD! THE DRAGON IS WEAKENED, WE STRIKE NOW!"  as he drives all of his power into a two blows!
[00:03] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+11
[00:03] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+11 --> 6,0[ 1d20=10 ]4,0{21}
[00:03] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+6
[00:03] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+6 --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{25}
[00:03] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+6 crit check
[00:03] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+6 1,0crit check --> 6,0[ 1d20=13 ]4,0{19}
[00:03] <Blondezilla> roll 3d8+4d6+24
[00:03] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 3d8+4d6+24 --> 6,0[ 3d8=14 4d6=16 ]4,0{54}
[00:03] * Dracos is now known as Drac-away
[00:04] * Drac-away (~Hate@adsl-69-106-234-13.dsl.pltn13.pacbell.net) Quit (Leaving)
[00:04] <Blondezilla> The first blow only opens another wound on it's flank, while the second plunges into it's chest! Ripping out bloody chunks of flesh, Commander Oberuth fights with all he has, as a small contingent of troops charge out, small spears and lances readied!
[00:04] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+4
[00:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{13}
[00:04] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+4
[00:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{11}
[00:04] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+4
[00:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{6}
[00:04] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20+4
[00:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20+4 --> 6,0[ 1d20=18 ]4,0{22}
[00:04] <Blondezilla> roll 1d8+1
[00:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d8+1 --> 6,0[ 1d8=2 ]4,0{3}
[00:05] <Blondezilla> The wounds are minor to it, but more soldiers rush out, a few even managing some small degree of success! They shake wildly, Wedge among them! He looks up, his war worn face showing a mix of admiration and fear, but nonetheless holding the line! OOC - Dragon and Deme.
[00:06] <Blondezilla> Kondrux seems to struggle within a moment, attempting...
[00:06] <Blondezilla> roll 1d20-5
[00:06] <Rei-chan> 6,0Blondezilla rolled :6,0 1d20-5 --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{3}
[00:06] <Blondezilla> But Kondrux only shakes, a little more of it's life blood coming out as it's mouth o nly sluggishly opens. "How...who...betrayed..." It asks, voice shaking with the effort to speak!
[00:07] <Seira> "Your old pal Ajan!" Seira happily calls across in Draconic. "He says hi!"
[00:07] * Demedais grunts and goes all-out on the beast! "That information is classified by the city of Balmuria!" Demedais yells as his strokes go forth!
[00:07] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 (6 PA+Smite again)
[00:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+10 1,0(6 PA+Smite again) --> 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{19}
[00:07] <Demedais> roll 1d20+2 (6 PA)
[00:07] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 (Forgot the shield again!)
[00:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+2 1,0(6 PA) --> 6,0[ 1d20=19 ]4,0{21}
[00:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+11 1,0(Forgot the shield again!) --> 6,0[ 1d20=6 ]4,0{17}
[00:07] <Blondezilla> OOC - Crit check on the second.
[00:07] <Demedais> roll 1d20+2
[00:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d20+2 --> 6,0[ 1d20=1 ]4,0{3}
[00:08] <Blondezilla> OOC - Three normal hits.
[00:08] <Demedais> roll 2d6+2d6+1d10+25+19+4
[00:08] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 2d6+2d6+1d10+25+19+4 --> 6,0[ 2d6=5 2d6=6 1d10=7 ]4,0{66}
[00:11] <Blondezilla> In the rain of blows, Demedais leaps forward! As the fifth resort slams into it's chest, he uses it as a footstool for a final thrust as high as he can go, spearing into it's neck! HE hangs there a moment, before his arms twist up and rip, tearing out the dragon's throat over several agonizing seconds! A sea of dragonsblood soaks the gategrounds, Kondrux's now ruiend neck gushing ou a sea of crackling sparks and lighting! He goes rigid,
[00:11] <Blondezilla> He goes rigid, suddenly raising it's head to the skies! The scream that comes forth is one of primality, protesting to the Gods in the heavens above! For a moment it stands there, a scene of protest amid it's betrayal...and then, it's wounds too much, Kondrux collapses, the earth shaking like a mountain had fallen.
[00:12] * Seira glances from behind her catapult, quite disappointed, and head over to poke at the dragon's corpse with a sharp stick.
[00:13] <Shamal> "Yes!" Shamal exults briefly, casting a spell of healing on herself before she hurries down from the battlements to join the others at the gate.
[00:13] * Seira exprimentally shoots a few arrows into the dragon's hide, just for that special feeling of accomplishment.
[00:14] * Demedais lands on the ground, then falls onto his knees, soaked in blood. "Well. Um. That was dramatic." With that, Demedais proceeds to cast a spell of lesser restoration on himself.
[00:14] <Blondezilla> The air is silent the first few moments, those remaining staring in shock. AT Balmuria's gate likes a great creature of terror, soaking the ground with it's rare lifeblood.  Seira shoots it, getting little reaction from the slain beast. Commander Oberuth stares on, a hand idly going to his ravaged shoulder, holding off the bloodflow. "...we..." he breaths out, "Victory!:
[00:14] <Demedais> roll 1d4
[00:14] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d4 --> 6,0[ 1d4=4 ]4,0{4}
[00:14] <Seira> "Flawless victory, Sir!"
[00:15] * Seira considers, and takes out her father's amulet, letting it soak up the fallen dragon's lifeblood.
[00:15] <Blondezilla> Breathing out in relief, hand still shaking, "...You did it. The three of you really did bring back a way to kill it..." He watches on as it's blood seeps out, as cheers start in the battlements and the soldiers around you.
[00:16] * Demedais nods as the energy flows into him again, then stands slowly, looking at the beast. "So, uh. Anyone up for figuring out how dragon tastes?" he says mildly as he joins the three.
[00:16] <Seira> "Dragons are sentient, we do not eat them," Seira retorts, before smiling. "We use them for spell components!"
[00:16] <Shamal> "That was not the plan," Shamal observes as she approaches, staring in wonderment at the gargantuan corpse blocking the road. "We'll have to do something with it," she nods dazedly to Seira.
[00:17] <Demedais> "Fine, fine. Get Stronger over here and have her dissect the thing. The sooner it's out of the way, the better I'll feel." Demedais then glances down. "Also I need a long bath."
[00:17] <Blondezilla> "Hells, leave it there for now. Let those bastards look over the border and think about coming over..." Commander Oberuth grins despite his wound, turning back. "Spread word through the city! The blue dragon Kondrux is dead!"
[00:17] <Shamal> "Speaking of them..." Shamal looks back to see if the Malmuthian contingent is anywhere in evidence.
[00:18] * Demedais idly holds his hand on Oberuth's shoulder, pouring his healing energy into it as he looks back into town. "A little pickmeup, Sir."
[00:19] <Shamal> Khan walks over to Shamal and gives her an affectionate nuzzle before vanishing. "What about you, Demedais?" she asks the paladin. "That command seemed to take a lot out of you - do you need any further healing?"
[00:20] <Demedais> "I've... lost something, I feel. Less lively. Also all these wounds sting like hell, but none are lethal." Demedais replies. "What about you? You seem a little shaky... do you need some restoration?" Demedais clamps his mouth shut after that. This isn't really the time for lewd jokes...
[00:20] <Seira> "I wasn't hurt at all!" Seira says happily, before she smoothes over her features. "Sir," she addresses Oberuth, "might I requisition the dragon's head and, perhaps, a claw or two?"
[00:21] * Shamal takes out a scroll from her haversack and smiles at Demedais, "Nothing a little bedrest won't cure," she assures him, before reading off her magic and further reinvigorating the paladin.
[00:21] <Shamal> roll 1d4
[00:21] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d4 --> 6,0[ 1d4=4 ]4,0{4}
[00:23] <Demedais> "Ah, thank you, Shamal." Demedais nods, before touching her on the head. "Still, shouldn't leave this waiting..." He chants the same magic, healing her in return.
[00:23] <Demedais> roll 1d4
[00:23] <Rei-chan> 6,0Demedais rolled :6,0 1d4 --> 6,0[ 1d4=4 ]4,0{4}
[00:24] * Seira wordlessly offers Demedais her pearl, again.
[00:24] * Demedais glances at Seira, then grins and shakes his head. "No need, we're all done here - unless you want a restoration as well."
[00:25] <Seira> "Like I said, I'm entirely alright!"
[00:25] <Shamal> "You're too kind," Shamal grins, briefly curtseying to Demedais, before turning around to survey the victorious troops.
[00:25] <Blondezilla> Seira's pendant seems to soak in the blood, covered in it. Meanwhile, cries of relief and celebration sound. The soldiers that did not flee celebrate openly, a few stabbing at the mammoth dragon for good measure. Above, you can see Pollyanna look on at the dragon, her face blank.
[00:27] <Demedais> "Excellent!" Demedais replies with a grin before spotting Pollyanna. "Pollyanna! My thanks. Your accuracy was excellent! Slowed down the accursed thing. Thank you."
[00:28] <Blondezilla> "We'll see once it's sorted out," He says to Seira, looking on at the corpse, starting to grin again. "We diddn'te ven need those bastard...heh!" His grin is wide as can be, "All they'll have is a story about how we killed a fearsome dragon." He seems satistified, looking on.
[00:29] * Demedais hesitates. "Uh, sir? Seira raises a good point. Where are the Malmuthians?"
[00:29] <Seira> "And we have all of the dragon's exciting gold and magical lore that it gathered for millennia, all to ourselves."
[00:29] <Blondezilla> "I sent them on secondary duty," Oberuth looks back, "The healer should be positioned to help refugees if we failed, and they make a good reserve fi we'd be overwhelmed. They should be back there, though..." Oberuth looks back, starting to frown.
[00:30] * Demedais nods. "In fairness, some of that loot should go to Pollyanna." With that, Demedais glances to Oberuth. "Permission to go looking for them?"
[00:30] <Seira> "I'll go check, Sir!" Seira volunteers, and shimmers before her form becomes indistinguishable to all but Oberuth, Shamal and Demedais.
[00:30] <Seira> Now invisible, she happily goes to hunt their Malmuthian friends.
[00:31] <Blondezilla> "Go on," The Commander instructs, his smile slipping, "It's probably nothing, of course."
[00:32] * Shamal whistles herself, and Laika comes bounding out from behind the gates where she'd been left with the reserves, Shamal not having been willing to risk her companion against such a threat. She then casts Speak With Animals and asks Laika if she saw where the Malmuthians went.
[00:32] * Demedais blinks. "Seira! You check around the garrison, I'll check at the gates!" he yells out as she leaves. "Gah, she's impatient." Demedais nods to Oberuth. "Still, letting them roam free... gives me a bad feeling."
[00:32] <Seira> With Expeditious Retreat, Seira's speed picks up, and she is able to cover twice the ground!
[00:33] <Blondezilla> Laika rubs Shamal's hand, "I didn't see them or smell them, but there were so many humans around."
[00:34] * Demedais summons Horse and nods to Oberuth before checking at each gate, in case they tried to leave town!
[00:34] <Blondezilla> Seira and Demedais search. Seira finds them back by the garrison, coming together with a few soldiers.
[00:34] * Seira is content to watch them, her form blurring further under her guise of invisibility.
[00:34] <Shamal> "Never a moment of peace..." Shamal likewise loses some of her good cheer. "Come on then, let's look around - let me know if you pick up their scent?" she asks her canine companion as they start from the area Obureth instructed their 'allies' to wait.
[00:35] * Seira backs away slightly and gives Demedais the directions, before coming closer once more to observe their Malmuthian friends.
[00:36] <Blondezilla> They travel in the streets, asy ou can see celebrations beginning with normal folks. Granted, they tend to give the Malmuthians distance as they head towards the gate. Soon within sight of SHamal and Oberuth.
[00:37] * Demedais nods and heads back to the gate. "Sorry, Horse, for getting your fur all bloody." he says fondly.
[00:38] <Blondezilla> As the Malmuthians approach, General Olburt calls forth, leading the three. "What a day..." he observes, "The bravervy your soldiers possess must be without peer."
[00:39] * Shamal waves to the trio. "Not exactly what we had planned, but we can hardly complain after that sort of victory."
[00:40] <Shamal> roll 1d20+7
[00:40] <Rei-chan> 6,0Shamal rolled :6,0 1d20+7 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{21}
[00:40] <Blondezilla> As Shamal talks, Laika nips at her hand. Meanwhile, "Yes...yes indeed, it is," Oberuth speaks, "I thank you for your assistance, but it seems we do not need your aid after all, General."
[00:40] * Demedais gets off Horse and dismisses him. "Go get a bath, with my apologies." With that, he nods to the three, a bit relieved. "Apologies for not saving any action for you, but the fiend didn't delay in turning agressive."
[00:40] * Seira quietly casts her Detect Magic spell from a safe distance and closes in again to observe their friends!
[00:41] * Shamal looks down at Laika. "What is it, girl?" she whispers, still able to talk intelligibly with her friend.
[00:42] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 cleric
[00:42] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+12 1,0cleric --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{24}
[00:42] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 general
[00:42] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d20+12 1,0general --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{24}
[00:43] <Shamal> Shamal's expression briefly goes blank, before she gives Laika an affectionate pat, her smile slipping back on. "Good girl," she compliments warmly, straightening up to regard the trio with special attention to the self confessed 'thief' of the group.
[00:43] <Blondezilla> General Olbert grunts, looking. "Perhaps so," he allows, "...I should have expected a good performance..." he muses.
[00:45] <Blondezilla> "Yes well..." Oberuth just smiles, "We'll have our celebration feast this evening and we'll see you off in the morning," he says grandly, "If you'd go back to your quarters and rest?"
[00:45] <Blondezilla> Claris looks on, a smiling but slightly distant nod to Shamal and Demedais, then Seira. "Impressive," he murmurs in a polite tone, turning around first.
[00:46] <Blondezilla> OOC - Strike the look at Seira.
[00:46] * Seira is happy enough to sneak up to the Malmuthians to listen in on their private conversation!
[00:47] <Shamal> "I'll look forward to seeing you all there," Shamal smiles pleasantly, her gaze resolutely fixed on Pallan.
[00:47] <Blondezilla> Pallan smiles from beneath his hood, patting his large horse's side. "Good...good..." he strokes her mane, turning away as well. He stops and looks at Shamal, "I heard cries about a great demon cat....?" he looks to her.
[00:48] <Shamal> "I'd be more than happy to discuss my animal friends over dinner, Sir Pallan," the theurge replies, before cocking her head. "I have a feeling there's a great deal the two of us could discuss, after all."
[00:48] * Demedais nods to Oberuth. "Not our most tactically fine moment, but it definitely sufficed."
[00:58] <Blondezilla> Pallan merely smiles to Shamal, almost shyly. "...The tactics that won are sufficient, no matter what..." Pallan observes, his eyes on SHamal even if his voice isn't. "Then..." Petting his horse, "Should we?"
[01:03] <Shamal> "Tonight, then," Shamal nods, walking closer. "My, such a fine animal..." she smiles at the horse, before lowering her voice and speaking in the secret tongue of the druids as she leans closer - though her spell ensures the horse will understand her no matter what. "Has your master ever come to this city before?" she asks it.
[01:04] <Blondezilla> Pallan smiles and pats his horse, "Yes," he murmurs in common, smiling to Shamal. "...I so do like to travel."
[01:05] <Blondezilla> The horse looks at Shamal and rears up into the petting, but stays silent.
[01:06] <Shamal> At that, a guilty flush covers Shamal's cheeks. "Well... aren't you full of surprises," she manages, returning to Common. "I can tell we will indeed have much to talk about. Later, though." At that, she backs off to rejoin the rest of the Crimson Guard.
[01:08] <Blondezilla> He smiles at Shamal as she flees, reaching into his bag and putting something in his horse's mouth, eaten swiftly. "...I still have time here," he agrees, watching Shamal go.
[01:12] * Rei-chan (Rei-chan@user-5444a5c7.lns6-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (That was a complete Deus Ex Machina. You guys so should've died.)

[01:16] * Rei-chan (Rei-chan@user-5444a5c7.lns6-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[01:16] * Blondezilla sets mode: +o Rei-chan
[01:17] <Blondezilla> > The amulet glows some. Not a full pulse, but more like a half burnt lightbulb. Steady but dim in the center. In the center you see a faint image of a burning flame, but instead only a few sparks of lighting jump there, not doing very much.
[01:17] <Blondezilla> <Corwin> Would dipping it in some more help?
[01:17] <Blondezilla> > You aren't sure.
[01:17] <Blondezilla> <Corwin> Let's try~
[01:17] <Blondezilla> > As long as it's int he blood, you see that the amulet keeps it's glow. There's a lot of blood, including a few pools of it where it's breath weapon gouged out chunks of the ground.
[01:17] <Blondezilla> <Corwin> It clearly needs to be dipped in the blood next to its heart!
[01:17] <Blondezilla> > Going to do anything more off of that?
[01:17] <Blondezilla> <Corwin> Like what?
[01:17] <Blondezilla> > I dunno, I was wondering if you were going to try and dig into next to it's heard andput it in there or something wacky.
[01:17] <Blondezilla> <Corwin> Yep, let's try that
[01:17] <Blondezilla> <Corwin> Heart's got the most potent blood!
[01:17] <Blondezilla> > It's a pretty big dragon. It'll take some time and effort to carve in, mind you. Nothing impossible, though.
[01:17] <Blondezilla> <Corwin> I think I have the time
[01:26] <Blondezilla> As the celebrations begin, Seira lingers behind. She starts to use her sword to carve into the dragon's chest. This is good hard work, blue scales scattered around followed by chunks of meat. As this happens, a few guards stare at the scene, parts of the dragon being torn away by an invisible force.
[01:26] * Seira whistles merrily, dissecting the dragon without too much worries over her personal safety.
[01:29] * Shamal walks over to the dissection. "Seira, what are you doing?" she asks quietly.
[01:29] <Blondezilla> Guards stare, a few starting to call. "C-c-captain!" They call to Shamal, "Yo-you see it! Stop it!"
[01:30] * Shamal blinks, and then reaches over to gently whap her friend. "Dispel your invisibility - you're scaring everyone!" she reprimands quietly.
[01:30] <Shamal> "It's only Captain Seira!" she then calls over to the men, more loudly. "At ease."
[01:31] * Seira appears, cutting through the dragon's insides with her machete-like elven sword and an evil grin.
[01:33] <Blondezilla> Lighting crackles as Seira cuts in, a few arcs dancing around her! While it doesn't look overly powerful, there's probably a chance for a shock if she finises the digging. Meanwhile, the guards stare before breathing out, indeed going at ease. "You show that dragon, sirs!" one of the guards calls.
[01:33] * Seira pauses briefly, grabs hold of a dagger with Mage Hand, and continues her merry task from a safer distance, albeit slower!
[01:34] <Blondezilla> The dagger gets zapped a few times, smoldering before the task is complete. But you have a path to near it's heart now, some lingering blood dripping out.
[01:35] * Seira ties a string to the amulet and drops it into the dragon's insides to cook for a while!
[01:35] <Blondezilla> The amulet falls in, landing with a soft sound of dragon innards impacting.
[01:35] <Shamal> "I find myself compelled to repeat... what are you doing?" Shamal asks, mystified by the whole procedure.
[01:36] * Xellos is now known as Olorin
[01:36] <Seira> "Dad told me about this," Seira murmurs, observing while tapping her foot. "It happens with red dragons, so maybe it can happen with blue dragons, too?"
[01:37] <Shamal> "What happens?" the blonde blinks in confusion. "Is this about your dream where you turned into a dragon?"
[01:37] <Seira> "No, no." Seira shakes her head. "The amulet gets charged and-- well, you have a similar one, right? The one with the gem?"
[01:39] <Shamal> "The gnomish spellgem, you mean?" Shamal asks, fingering said necklace. "So what will it do after you... charge it in... blood?" She can't help but make a face as she summarises it.
[01:39] <Seira> "Since this is a blue dragon, maybe it will electrify things I don't like?" Seira muses. "If not, nothing lost."

[21:08] <Ko-nata> The feast isn't the biggest ever - simple time constrants, even with a few corners cut. But the gathering outside of the garrison is certainly energetic enough to make up for it. As the sun sinks into the sky, a large fire burns in the practice courtyard, carefully bounded off. Tables have been moved outside, laden with food and drink. The citizens of the city mingle and celebrate, a rowdy and loud time. People are around - the Commander res
[21:08] <Ko-nata> the Commander rests in a chair, mostly watching with a relaxing, content smile on his face. (More)
[21:09] <Ko-nata> Countess Stronger talks to a few well off citizens, tossing her hair as she chats merrily. "Because we adventured into hidden depths of the sea and..." she goes on lightly. The Malmuthians faintly linger close, General Olburt removed from it all and watching. Claris politely mingles, chatting with Al-Lamar for a time. Pallan seems to be nearby, his horse resting just outside of the gathering. He tends to drift towards there. Others as well,
[21:10] <Ko-nata> Others as well, a fine time indeed...
[21:11] * Demedais strolls up to the Commander. "Anything that needs to be done, Sir?" he asks, looking around.
[21:11] <Shamal> After making some polite conversation here and there, Shamal rather swiftly makes her way to Pallan. "Enjoying the festivities, Sir Pallan?" she asks pleasantly, offering him a drink if he doesn't already have one, and bearing one for herself regardless.
[21:14] <Ko-nata> Commander Oberuth drains his drink, watching the celebration distantly. "Right now, no," he grandly gestures to the crowd, "We can worry another day." You see a few memebers of the Helmites mixing in, even familiar figures like father Ceiar. There is an air of relief about, palpable in it's relaxing dissipation.
[21:15] <Ko-nata> He shakes his head at the offer, drifting back to his horse. "...I'm fine," he murmurs, looking to his horse. "I'm surprised...I mean, that's all....even when I heard about your tactics in battle, I had wondered if it was true."
[21:15] * Seira goes off into a corner to polish her bow.
[21:16] <Ko-nata> As Seira goes off, Elle spots her and waves. "Seira!" she calls, breaking away from a few with an easy smile.
[21:16] <Shamal> "Wondered if what was true?" Shamal asks, allowing herself to be drawn on his comment before she gets to her own concerns.
[21:17] * Demedais nods slowly. "Very well. I saw you were using the sword we gave you, sir... like it?"
[21:17] <Ko-nata> "A city guardsman...with your profession mixed in?" he looks uncertain, looking away. "It's just not what I expected..."
[21:18] <Ko-nata> "I do. It just...feels right." Oberuth struggles a moment before shrugging his broad shoulders. "It's even worn in right on the hilt. IT feels like I've been using it longer than I have somehow."
[21:18] <Seira> "Elle!" Seira returns the smile, albeit her own is more reserved due to being in public, and her being on duty, effectively. "We seem to have some unexpected windfall of prime magical supplies. Say, how are you at making robes?"
[21:18] <Demedais> "In a way, sir, you have, quite frankly." Demedais says, notably looking at anyone but Oberuth.
[21:20] <Ko-nata> Putting her drink down on the nearest table, "Oh...I can manage," she nearly giggles, "I can't even quicken a spell anymore, but give me a few magical parts and some money and I'll figure something out." Tossing her hair back as she blushes, "Oh yes, it's such a pain to do that. It's like retraining how your mind thinks."
[21:21] <Ko-nata> "...huh?" Oberuth blinks owlishly, blinking a few times. "Was that the mead or did I hear you wrong?"
[21:21] <Shamal> "City guardsman *is* my profession, Pallan," Shamal replies patiently. "A profession is what you're paid to do - and whether I'm a mage or a druid, I serve the United Baronies, as my father did before me."
[21:22] <Demedais> "Nah, you heard me right, Sir." Demedais said. "To put it simply, one of the trials down in the dungeon we found the dragon's name in was to head through a shadow-Balmuria you were the ruler of. That was... your sword there."
[21:22] <Seira> "Please say that you've evolved past the need for such theatrics rather than lamenting a lost magical art," Seira requests, nodding for good measure. "It sounds better."
[21:23] <Ko-nata> "...oh." He seems strangely content with that, getting onto his horse. He seems overshadowed by it, almost shadowed. "I suppose it is a frontier city...and you perhaps travel on occasion?"
[21:24] <Ko-nata> "...Gods alive." Rubbing the bridge of his nose wearily, "Do I want to know?"
[21:24] <Shamal> "Very frequently - for example, I was recently away from home on an extended journey that took me far further than expected... but you knew that already, didn't you?" Shamal asks, her voice still pleasant but with an undertone of firmness that brooks no attempt to weasel out of this.
[21:25] <Ko-nata> "Oh, I'm managing," Elle smiles, "But no matter. I suspect I'll be busy for a good while now with that damned dragon. Unless I decide to throw caution to the wind and go mountain hunting  myself now..." She grins at that, eyes sparkling. "I've heard it's like a giant pit of gold and jewels, as deep a bottomless pit."
[21:26] <Demedais> "Probably not." Demedais says, dropping the subject. "I was primarily just wondering if that was the reason you switched swords - and it was, which is a good thing." With that, Demedais does something that'll give him a bit of a headache; he casts detect chaos, and primarily eyes Oberuth and the Malmuthian brigade...
[21:27] <Ko-nata> He smiles, "I'm good at learning things..." he murmurs defensively. "It's not hard for any of you. The Crimson Guard...it's what the traders who come back from Balmuria like to talk about. That they stop undead, that they can kill a dozen trolls at once..."
[21:27] <Seira> "I intend to ask the Commander to send us there as soon as possible -- the next morning, if at all plausible, in fact." She smiles more easily, now that they are relatively away from Elle's groupies. "I'll be sure to bring your share back, too."
[21:28] <Ko-nata> Walking towards a table and grabbing a bottle of wine and a glass, "Yes, yes. In all seriousness," she pokes Seira's head, "I'm several thousand GP in the red. I can hold off a little while - no one in the city's going to be able to press a debt immediately if I ask the Commander for a favor..." she begins, but starts to eye the crowd. It's a natural thing, but her attention suddenly transfixes on the corner of it. "Ooooh...Oh!"
[21:29] * Seira naturally follows Elle's gaze.
[21:29] * Shamal briefly looks upwards, as if asking 'why me'. "I don't know who started that rumour about a dozen trolls. It was two, at most," she sighs. "The point I'm getting at is that I know you were creeping around my house while I was gone - your scent is rather distinctive. I'd like to know why."
[21:30] <Ko-nata> Demedais doesn't note any unusual chaos. "That and I haven't even seen a goblin in months," he admits after a moment. "They're still around, but hardly worth notice with the problems we've had."
[21:31] <Ko-nata> Seira can see that entering the edge fo the celebration is an elf. He wears a green cloak, blonde hair whipping in a faint breeze. "Well finally," she mutters under her breath, a look of pique coming over her face.
[21:32] <Seira> "Would that be a bad time to ask for an introduction?" Seira wonders out loud, naturally curious at meeting the elf that cheated her friend and mentor of considerable sums of gold previously.
[21:32] <Ko-nata> Pallan looks down, patting his horse once more. "...please." He shifts, starting to speak in the forbidden words, only understood to Shamal. "I have my duties...and you have yours. Isn't that enough?"
[21:34] * Demedais nods slowly. "Plus, I'd imagine that the guards are getting better at handling them." he says, before glancing around for the Helmites.
[21:34] <Shamal> "Only so long as they don't conflict," Shamal replies in the same language. "Tensions are running high, lately, and mysterious people sneaking around my home don't do anything for mine or my friends' peace of mind."
[21:35] <Ko-nata> As the people mingle and chatter away, the sun begins to set. The warmth of the day yet lingers, a blank faced woman staring from the very edge of the street before turning away and walking. Pollyanna makes little noise, instead heading away south.
[21:35] <Ko-nata> "Oh yes, I suppose...but you can come anyway," Elle smiles grandly, starting to pick up her pace.
[21:36] * Seira comes anyway!
[21:36] <Ko-nata> "True," Oberuth muses at that, starting to shake his head, "After the problems here, I've heard no complaints about those I've sent whenever the outer farmsteads have complained about goblins."
[21:37] <Shamal> Spotting Pollyanna, Shamal briefly nods to Pallan. "Anyway, I've said what I meant to. Please be more considerate if you return - now, if you'll excuse me." With that, she heads after the young archer.
[21:37] <Ko-nata> Looking up and smiling, "Shamal. ...why -hm?" he stops, looking at Shamal as she goes. He continues to smile, nudging his horse and heading away to the north and leaving the celebration.
[21:39] * Demedais nods to Oberuth. "Perhaps things are finally settling down..." He then glances at Oberuth. "I'm going to go talk to Father Ceiar, let you relax for a bit, Sir."
[21:39] <Ko-nata> The elf just starts to get attention as Elle calls, "Hey, hey!" she looks at him, steps quick. He's just starting to look to the human women around, a dashing smile recinded as he sees Stronger. He waits for her and Seira to approach.
[21:39] <Ko-nata> OOC - Evil Shamal.

[19:37] <Ko-nata> ---
[19:38] <Ko-nata> It takes Shamal a bit to catch up. Pollyanna is heading away, the druid only getting within reasonable range near the gate. That seems to be where she's headed, a brown horse with saddle and travelbags waiting at the edge of the street.
[19:40] <Shamal> While not sneaking, as such, Shamal doesn't broadcast her presence until she's only a few feet behind the younger woman. "Leaving, now?" she asks gently.
[19:41] <Ko-nata> She doesn't stop at all, "...I left a note for Seira and to your Commander," she answers, voice unemotional, toneless. "I thank them for what they gave me during this time." Getting to the horse, she checks it over once or twice before starting to mount.
[19:42] <Shamal> "Where will you be headed?" the blonde asks, making no move to interfere.
[19:44] <Ko-nata> She checks over her quiver of arrows once, making sure the strap is on correctly. "I'm going to get back the possessions of my family and friends," se at last says.
[19:47] <Shamal> "Alone?" Shamal steps closer. "If you can stand to wait one more night, we'll be mounting our own expedition - with my spells we'll be able to cover ground more quickly, anyway. You could come with us, if you want?" she offers.
[19:49] <Ko-nata> "No." She answers laconically, "...I don't care about the money. I just have to do this myself." She turns towards the gates, spurring her horse on. "I'm the last of us now. What good am if I can't even do that?"
[19:54] <Shamal> "You avenged them, didn't you?" Shamal asks, doing her best to match pace with her. "I think that's a lot of good by itself... I can't force you not to go, Pollyanna, I just think... I'm not sure you should be alone, at a time like this."
[19:55] <Ko-nata> Pollyanna stops, her horse whinning as she brings it up quick and short, just inside the gate. "That I'll curl up into the nearest dagger and die if  I'm alone?" She keeps her tonelessness as shes tarts, but a hint of anger flares up.
[20:04] * Shamal can't help but snort at that comment. "Honestly, the thought hadn't even occured - you seem too driven to let that happen. I just..." she shrugs helplessly after a moment, "I was alone, for a long time, once. After you leave everyone else behind, it becomes hard to let them back in again. But someone was very patient with me and didn't give up until I was ready to open up. Maybe I'm trying to pass the favour on?"
[20:04] <Shamal> She smiles wanly, reaching up to pat Pollyanna's horse. "I know you don't know me at all, really. I just... I want to help you, if I can. I know what it's like to not have a family, too."
[20:09] <Ko-nata> "I had a family a few weeks ago," Pollyanna snaps, beforet urning away, her hands digging into the lower neck of her horse. She sharply breathes out, but goes silent instead.
[20:14] * Shamal briefly looks down, herself. "I could have phrased that better, I suppose," she admits, sadly. "Listen, won't you please reconsider, at least wait until tomorrow? It's been a long day, and you won't get far travelling at night, anyway. I promise you'll get there sooner if you wait."
[20:18] <Ko-nata> Pollyanna stops, reaching into her saddlebag and fiddling for something a few moments. As she does...OOC - Listening check, Sham-chan.
[20:18] <Shamal> roll 1d20+12
[20:18] <Reiko-chan> 1,0Shamal rolled :1,0 1d20+12 --> 1,0[ 1d20=9 ]12,0{21}
[20:19] <Ko-nata> She thinks amoment, before instead closing it again. "Maybe...but I'm sorry. If you're so faster...maybe we'll meet on the way," she opines, spurring her horse on.
[20:22] <Shamal> "Maybe we will," Shamal sighs slightly as she watches Pollyanna go, waiting until she's through the gates and past the dragon before turning and heading back to the garrison.
[20:33] <Ko-nata> OOC - I'll get you back into #dunes in a bit.

[21:41] <Ko-nata> "Fine. I hope we'll have some normal times now," he agrees, waving his hand. "Go on, I'm probably going to rest early...oh, and if you see Khardon around, remind him that I sent him a summons today."
[21:42] <Demedais> "Very well, sir." With that, Demedais goes to try and find both Khardon and Ceiar, whichever comes first to his sights....
[21:42] * Seira approaches, looking official in her crisp cavalry uniform without even putting much effort into it. She lets her eyes rove over the elf, whether admiring his lean form or any hidden weapons he might have being left to any observer's imagination.
[21:45] <Ko-nata> It's not hard to find Ceiar. He's drifted into Claris' sights, the two having an animated conversation. "The Dawnbringer..." Claris goes on, animated but not angry.  No sign of Khardon around offhand.
[21:46] * Demedais considers stepping in, but decides to find Khardon first. A religious conversation right now isn't precisely what he's interested in.
[21:47] <Ko-nata> He wears an open weapon, a slender longsword, almost bordering on a rapier. He's rather attractive, delicate features even for an elf. Yet his body has an energy to it, a tauntness, like string stretched to it's natural, beautiful limit. "Elle," he speaks with a soft accent, elven tinted. "Captain Seira, I presume," he half bows to her, respectful and eyes cool.
[21:50] * Seira returns the half bow. "You have me at a disadvantage, I'm afraid."
[21:54] <Ko-nata> Demedais finds that he can't locate Khardon around. He doesn't seem to be at the celebration.
[21:54] <Ko-nata> "Call me Palla today," He gently, luringly smile to Seira. "What a fascinating city you have."
[21:55] * Demedais shrugs a bit, then goes back to find Ceiar. Quite frankly, he can understand not wanting to be at a celebration...
[21:56] <Ko-nata> Elle crosses his arms, "Oh, how nice," she scowls, "Do you think you could've kept your appointments better?"
[21:57] <Seira> "Yes! And we welcome travelers and traders from all corners of the world," Seira agrees, speaking in a pleasant tone of voice. At Elle's words, she adds, "Though keeping a lady waiting is quite a sin, a lack of punctuality could be forgotten in certain cases. Does there happen to be a good excuse?"
[21:58] <Ko-nata> "Yes. I apologize, but events conspired against me," he bows to Elle, taking her hand in his own. "I receieved unusually abrupt orders and have to investigate them, and when that was resolved, the current crisis made everyone dreadfully busy."
[21:59] <Ko-nata> Ceiar and Claris are winding down when Deme returns,enough for both to note him as he approaches. "Aaah. Paladin?" Claris notes as he approaches.
[22:01] <Seira> "Oh?" Seira exclaims, surprise in her voice. "You're a government official, Palla?"
[22:02] <Ko-nata> "No, scion Celebrimbor sent me orders. I'm here at his request." A wide, easy smile now, as he leans in to whisper to both, close to Elle then to Seira. "Matters of importance, ones that can consume time. Now that this business is concluded, I hope he returns soon."
[22:02] <Demedais> "Yes, sir." Demedais nods to Claris. "How do you two fare today?"
[22:04] <Ko-nata> "Well.  There is little reason for worry this day," Claris lookst ot he setting sun, as at the very tip fo the horizon, gray dusk skies and stars can just begin to be noted.
[22:04] <Ko-nata> Ceiar smiles genially, "When the only direct concern is religious debate of a peaceful nature, it is a good day."
[22:05] <Seira> "As do I," Seira agrees readily. "And to which parts of the world did your orders take you?" she asks, maintaining that earlier curiousity. "Back home?"
[22:06] <Demedais> "That usually is a good portent, yes." Demedais grins quickly before shaking his head a bit. "Almost anticlimatic, but in such situations that's never a bad thing."
[22:07] <Ko-nata> "Briefly, I rode fast. But...such matters are not for me to discuss. No offenses meant," Glancing around and seeing that the looks you're getting are minimal, "If Scion Celebrimbor wishes to talk of it, that is in his discretion."
[22:10] <Seira> "I will try to see him when he returns, which should give him ample opportunity if this is his wish," Seira says, shrugging her shoulders lightly. "So what is it that you do when you are not off on important, secret missions of state?"
[22:12] <Ko-nata> "Oh, I romance the fairest ladies in the land," he drawls in his soft tones, looking to Elle. Her vague scowl flickers, as, "I enjoy the life we're so graciously given."
[22:13] <Ko-nata> "I don't believe it myself," Claris admits, after pausing to think. "What magic was used to paralyse the dragon? I've never heard of such a spell."
[22:13] * Seira snorts despite herself. "If more people were like you when I was growing up, I might've stayed after all."
[22:14] <Ko-nata> Elle shoots him a look, half melting irritation and half unmelted. "I'm not going to give you a discount, if that's what you're hoping for," she giggles.
[22:17] <Ko-nata> "Hah hah hah." Laughing as you can hear cheers behind, more celebrations, "You hail from our lands originally and not human lands?"
[22:18] <Demedais> "It was..." Demedais hesitates for a few reasons - reluctant to get into the dragon's true name discussion, as well as how they got it... "A combination of poisons that Shamal and Seira bought for the archers definitely slowed the beast down, and he yelled of being betrayed near the end..." Demedais shrugs. "It could be speculated that he didn't expect us to have poison."
[22:19] <Seira> "I'm surprised Lord Celebrimbor did not mention this," Seira responds, before shrugging once more. "Though, I suppose little old me would not factor much into an elven ambassador's daily concerns."
[22:23] <Ko-nata> "Poison was enough? Fascinating. I'll have to at least look into such means in research, if for no other eason than to be able to cure such a powerful draught." Claris decides on that as he thinks, "Yet I recall reading that dragonscale is almost immune to normal arrows."
[22:24] <Demedais> "It is. They also invested in magical arrows of some sort, I believe, to penetrate the defences of the beast." Demedais nods.
[22:26] <Demedais> "Oh, and catapaults of poison bags." Demedais shivers a bit. "I dislike poison on principle, but the only way we saw to strike at it was to hit at its nerves.... and poison was the only solution we saw in that regard."
[22:35] <Ko-nata> "Perhaps, but I cannot speak for the Scion." Parting from Elle, "In the interests of trade I have a few special...items." His smile grows, "Perhaps another day you would like to see them?"
[22:35] <Ko-nata> "Agreed," Claris frowns, but does not pursue it. Instead he shakes his head, "Thank you." He turns and goes, walking off under a proverbial cloud.
[22:36] * Demedais sighs a bit as he watches him go. "So, Father Ceiar. How fares the temple?"
[22:37] <Seira> "Do you have the coveted elven cloak of sneaking?" Seira asks, perking up. "I would like to see it, if so!"
[22:39] <Ko-nata> "Well enough now." A smile as he relaxes, "With the current crisis ending we can resume our own duties and reflections. What of yourself?"
[22:40] <Ko-nata> "I may," A soft bow as he smiles, Elle suddenly shooting him a look full of nasty little things. "I'll be in contact, then." With that he goes off, away and leaving.
[22:41] <Seira> "A colorful personality," Seira comments, staying near the older mage.
[22:42] <Ko-nata> "Oh, I'll say..." STeaming and crossing her arms as he goes, "Just when he makes me start to feel good...."
[22:42] * Demedais says nothing for a second, eyes clenched tightly. "...tired. And worried, still, even despite the dragon's death; worried without reason, and well aware of it." Demedais sighs again, thinking. "I am looking forward to some measure of rest after a final errand it sounds like Seira and Shamal desire to undertake."
[22:42] * Seira raises an eyebrow. "He can do that merely by talking to you?"
[22:43] <Ko-nata> "Go rest this night and prepare," Ceiar clasps Demedais on the shoulder, "It's been a difficult few weeks. Not even Lord Helm will deny those needs; go recover."
[22:43] <Ko-nata> "Well, he's charming and beautiful. Of course he can make me feel giddy when he looks at me! Did you see him?" Elle goe son, "But then he's all like 'Oh, I'll see you some magical items!' and getting into MY BUSINESS."
[22:44] <Ko-nata> As Shamal returns and approaches, she sees that events go on. People mingle as the sun sets, a few leaving but many remaining. Seira's talking with Elle, while Demedais is lost in conversation with a priest fromhis church.  It looks like good times otherwise, almost everone happy now that the dragon si slain.
[22:45] <Seira> "Try seducing him for a change, not the other way around," Seira happily suggests. "Might work wonders!"
[22:45] <Demedais> "I will, soon. Mainly want to make sure there isn't anything else required of me tonight..." Demedais says, glancing over to Oberuth.
[22:46] <Ko-nata> "..." This only gets silence, Elle twitching. "SEIRA!" She blurts, turning and blushing. "I'll have you know that he's gorgeous, but it's not like that. Besides, he should have to work for me if he wants me."
[22:47] <Ko-nata> Commander Oberuth is talking to a squire briefly, before standing and starting to head out towards the street.
[22:47] <Shamal> "So people who want you have to work for you? How does that affect the Mistress/Apprentice relationship you have with Seira?" Shamal asks, mysteriously popping up behind Elle.
[22:47] <Seira> "People have to work for Elle if they want her, check," Seira repeats slowly, writing it down on an ever-present sheaf of paper.
[22:48] <Seira> "Oh, hi, Shamal," she greets the blonde. "Want to copy my notes later?"
[22:48] * Demedais considers, then decides to not go after him. He's in plain sight, after all - if he were needed, Oberuth would ask. "Also, I'm admittedly still a bit... bewildered by all that's happened. I'm not sure I want to fall asleep anytime soon, who knows what dreams I'll have?"
[22:48] <Ko-nata> "I think the conclusion is that I need more wine," Elle goes over to a nearby table, indulging as she weaves past a few people. "No, I mean that if he wants me he has to work for it! I'm not some street hussy that'll go along with him for a few silver's worth of wine or ale."
[22:49] <Ko-nata> "Perhaps so..." Ceiar considers, "Have your dreams been difficult lately?"
[22:49] <Seira> "Must invest more than a silver's worth," Seira dutifully adds.
[22:49] <Shamal> "Um... I think I'll survive without them," Shamal nods after Stronger's outburst.
[22:50] <Demedais> "Not... precisely." Demedais says slowly. "Though... I'll explain more back at the temple. It's just been tiring, and... the underwater ruin was unexpectedly taxing."
[22:51] <Seira> "Well, today has been eventful, not to mention educational," Seira muses, placing the notes away. "We're going after the dragon's hoard before someone steals it at first light, naturally?"
[22:53] * Shamal nods. "First thing tomorrow," she agrees. "Pollyanna left just now, and I assured her that we'd catch up before she got there, so I'll prepare lots of travel spells for our mounts."
[22:54] <Seira> "That's regrettable," Seira says, some of her good mood evaporating, "but we would be even greater fools to rush after her without preparations, yes."
[22:56] <Shamal> "She's been up all day, so I don't imagine she'll get far before resting, and with my travel spells we can push our own mounts far harder once we do set off," Shamal replies optimistically. "I tried to talk her into waiting, but she was insistent."
[22:58] <Ko-nata> "Go rest - we can talk at the dawn before you leave," Ceiar pats Demedais's back once more, "You've done well today. Helm has to be proud of how you stood up to the dragon."
[22:58] <Seira> "Foolish. If she falls prey to goblins, I won't forgive her."
[22:59] <Ko-nata> "Wel yes, I am going to get some of it," Elle says conversationally. "You're leaving first thing?"
[22:59] * Demedais hesitates, then nods. "Let me bid goodnight to Shamal and Seira, and then I'll depart. Thank you, Ceiar.... truly, thank you." With that, Demedais turns to Shamal and Seira and walks over.
[23:00] <Shamal> "I don't doubt her abilities. I'm sure she'll be fine," Shamal assures her friend, before glancing at Elle. "My, it seems this dragon's lair has become popular..."
[23:00] <Seira> "Those involved should get their just rewards, or so the saying goes, I believe," Seira comments. "Elle, do you know the spell of Sending?"

[19:54] <Kotono> "No, but it's fairly advanced," Elle responds afer a moment, "Well...just make sure that you get it all in one piece."
[19:57] * Demedais looks at the two. "So... I take it you two plan an expedition to the dragon's lair?" he says casually.
[19:59] <Shamal> "A dragon's hoard would do wonders for the United Baronies budget," Shamal smiles guilelessly. "And with it currently sitting undefended out there, we need to hurry before someone else gets it first."
[20:00] <Kotono> "Yes, I'm sure your Commander is thinking something about 'those bastards getting it first'," Elle observes with her own smile, much more full of guile and amusement. "Plus we could use the money ourselves."
[20:01] * Demedais bows his head in thought. "I suppose you're right." he says after a bit.
[20:02] <Seira> "When you kill a dragon, you have to take its stuff. It's in the manual, I think."
[20:02] <Kotono> "So good luck," Elle agrees, bowing. "I'm going home, the next few days are going to be busy with that dragon lying out there."
[20:03] * Shamal wrinkles her nose. "I hope it's disposed of soon - it'll probably start to smell within a few days."
[20:03] <Seira> "There is a spell that fixes that!" Seira says helpfully.