Okay Alicia, we'll start this one OOC. Next move now that you're back?
If Ranbar's still around and looking for me I can chat with her.
It's not hard to find Ranbar. She's sitting with Latha and Jessica, the three in a covered pavilion on the beach of one of the many islands that now adorn Sylica. The sun is radiant above as they enjoy snacks and drinks, an array of tropical fruits on the table before them.
"She's here," Jessica says as she holds up a slice of what looks to be mango. "Would you like some, sister?"
Latha's focus is inward at the moment but she spares you a moment's smile. 'There is little more gripping than watching one of your strive for victory. Please, don't be offended by my silence until it concludes.'
"I'll have one thank you," Alicia says as she walks over to join them, dressed casually to match the ambience in a breezy blue dress with her hair down. Reaching over to take a fruit from her sister and giving Latha a brief smile back she focuses on Ranbar. "How are you finding Sylica, Ranbar?"
> roll 1d100 lowis good
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 lowis good --> [ 1d100=80 ]{80}
Latha's expression stays distant as meanwhile Ranbar nods to Alicia. "It's beautiful," she answers, "I can see where you got various bits of inspiration. This reminds me of Thalasia, it's so very peaceful."
"Was that your inspiration, sister?" Jessica inquires as she snacks on her mango.
"The beaches? Not so much, I'd never really been to that particular heaven," Alicia admits, biting into her own fruit and having a seat. "Actually it's drawn mostly from the coast around Balmuria."
It's sweet and juicy, everything you'd expect. Your land is bountiful indeed.
"Seira mentioned Balmuria influenced her as well, as well as some others," Ranbar agrees, "Each little island is a world to its own. Are any of them inhabited?"
"A few," Jessica answers, "I've seen to the creation of secluded temples and bases for my faith on some of them, though they're only manned by caretakers as of now. I know Syala's made a paradise island named Amazement. Though I understand it's more of a place to focus those of her followers who are very close to being Sharessians, too."
"Most are too small to really live on if they were on a prime, but for celestials that can teleport around and don't actually need food to eat regardless then it's a lot easier to set yourself up on a nice little island for as long as you like. Most are undeveloped and here for the scenery they present - beaches are popular in heaven," Alicia concludes with a smile.
"Especially for the sandcastles," Jessica adds with a fond smile, as Ranbar blinks at that.
"Ah," she says at last, "Still though, I came here to ask your advice, Alicia."
Meanwhile, you hear Clara's prayers. In particular you feel her pain, lying on the cold ground of a ruin. Above her by about 100ft is open ground, as if the land beneath her gave way.
"Owwww..." Clara groans, "Alicia help me," she whimpers as to cries from above and out of sight, "I'm okay, just brui...sed...?"
In this cavern and ahead lies an ancient stone building, cold and forgotten. In the faint light from above you can see there are front gates emblazedon with holy symbol of Torm.
"I found something," Clara calls up, "A Tormite temple! A big one! Probably abandoned for centuries! I bet there's treasure and a nice place to explore!"
At least Clara's with her adventuring party this time? Alicia has a peek with her divine senses over the temple to see what they're likely to run into there.
"What do you need advice with, Ranbar?" she asks aloud.
Oh no. While the temple has treasure and resources, as well as being mostly undefended save for some traps around the vault? The entire area is lousy with shocker lizards. They're just starting to crawl out, watching Clara from a dozen angles and more by the moment. The cavern begins to flicker electric blue.
Here Ranbar takes a breath, "I..." she pauses, "I've been swept away by events and Seira's will."
"Yes, she's rather like Lathander in that regard," Latha murmurs, her attention back on the conversation. "Your rise has been rapid, dwarfing even our own."
"That's just it," Ranbar agrees, "And now I can become a full deity and I realize I'm so overwhelmed by everything." She looks to you, "You've been through this before and known Seira a long time. What do I do?"
Hopefully Clara knows how to handle shocker lizards and her friends will help her since that's a rather dicey situation for her to be stuck in by herself. Alicia doesn't intervene, just watching and hoping she'll be appropriate careful.
"You know Ebony just asked me about divinity and if the responsibility is worth the power?" she tells Ranbar. "I told her that for me, and I imagine everyone else that's made it as a deity, the responsibility by itself is the prize, the power is just a means to assert it. To be a deity is to take charge of Creation, to declare that you know best and you're going to see things done your way."
> roll 1d100 lowis good
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 lowis good --> [ 1d100=21 ]{21}
Clara does the wise thing - she lets out a little eep, pulls out a potion and chugs it down. She promptly flies straight up and out of there, calling, "Shocker lizards, lots of them!"
Meanwhile Ranbar nods to that, "It fits you and it fits Donald, it fits Seira, it fits all of you. Me though? I feel like a maid promoted to the nobility."
"At times I could hardly believe what happened to us," Jessica concurs, "It sound as if you need more time. Events swept you aware much too fast."
"And Seira puts so much trust into me, and I can't bear to let that trust be misplaced," Ranbar agrees, a soft sigh. "But I'm not ready for this. Not yet."
Good job Clara, your party has trained you well. Bask in the approval of your goddess.
"Tell me about yourself, Ranbar?" Alicia invites, sitting up so she can lean towards the nascant divinity. "You were powerful before you became a deity, before Seira brought you into her inner circle, right? You must have had to learn how to wield that power wisely, been on some meaningful adventures to push your limits so... she didn't just pull you out of a cloistered temple, did she?"
"...ah..." Ranbar starts at that, a blush.
Helplessly Jessica begins to laugh. Latha cracks a smile, "That...does sound like Seira," Latha admits, "She has a weakness for the quiet types."
"Well, I was born on Air," Ranbar begins, reddened, "I took to Seira's faith after a traveler saved my life and spoke of her. I drifted right into a cloistered order."
Alicia feels somewhat embarrassed now too. "Still you must have learned a lot in that order and... you did have adventures, didn't you?" her voice lowers, hopeful and yet concerned Ranbar is going to admit to a lack of action packed life experience.
"Yes," Ranbar confirms, "I wasn't idle."
Well, that's something at least.
Meanwhile, "Saint Alicia herself crusaded against the lizards," Clara argues, "That's why we have to go down there and destroy this hive of them. Plus there's treasure in that old ruin, I just know it! A few protections against electricity will do it, they're just shocker lizards."
A good resist energy spell does rather negate the threat of shocker lizards, so long as they take precautions they'll be fine.
She wouldn't say she ever 'crusaded' per se.
"Then at a simple level, you know what it's like to hold another's life in your hands?" she asks Ranbar. "Those you protect, those you judge, those you kill."
"I do," Ranbar says, "But...is it really the same thing?"
"The scale's completely different, I'm just trying to work on some past experience you have that can help you contextualise it and not feel quite so overwhelmed," Alicia answers. "Ultimately you have to find your own Answer." Then she smiles and cocks her head, "I put extra emphasis on Answer there because that's much of a deity's role in Creation. The Incarnations created Creation to find an Answer and deities are important to that, but also we have to be the answer to our worshipper's prayers.
"You were a priestess of Seira, but you can't be that anymore. You can't rely on her Answer, even if hers might be similar to your own. Just as I had to stop being a paladin of Mystra and learn what I represented when not acting under her aegis."
"How did you do that?" Ranbar asks, "I've lived and breathed Seira for so long that it's hard to be Ranbar."
"I'll admit, it's easier for me. The stereotypical Mystran is a clever wizard, not a righteous knight," Alicia admits. She takes a breath, all the warning the others are going to get before she begins to lecture, "But lets look at domains first? As a cleric you should be intimately familiar with the concept. Obviously Mystra and I share the Good and Magic domains. I love magic, it's what drew me to Mystra to begin with. But when I began I took on the domains for Law, because I'm a fundamentally ordered person, and War, because more than anything else that's the use I put my magic to, in conjunction with my skill at arms. So as a new goddess that was my core answer - Mystra can have those who love magic for its own sake, I'll take those who use it practically to do battle.
"I took on additional domains as I grew, ones that draw meaning from my adventures. Purification - just look at Antenora. I don't just fight the wicked with sword and spell, I purify and cleanse, I make things and people better and oppose that which would corrupt or stain them. Then Liberation. What was my greatest adventure and mark upon the planes? Most will point to freeing the children of Androlynne. Many of my quests and adventures revolved around freeing people from captivity and terror - that's how I first met Latha in fact," she gestures to the nearby radiant deity. "And most recently I took on Creation. Not just because I've always encouraged creative pursuits in my followers lest they become monomaniacal warriors bereft of additional meaning in their lives, but for Creation itself and this most important quest we're all embarked upon together, to heighten my opposition to Shar, and to make myself represent more than just well-intentioned destruction."
After all that she takes a bite into her mango-alike, making a satisfied noise and wiping the back of her hand over her chin. "Forgive me for droning on like that, it's not that I like to talk about myself you see, but I hope seeing the examples and thought processes that direct my divinity and faith will help you find inspiration from your own beliefs and history. You're not just a priestess of Seira, you're Ranbar and it's up to you to distil the meaning of that into something people can look up to and call divine."
"We're the fortunate ones," Latha speaks up, "We've had decades to ponder this question. Not to the full end of apotheosis, but still our roles here demand that we define ourselves. You've been plunged in, you and those of the other groups."
"That is an arrow to the heart of it," Ranbar concurs as she looks at a slice of fruit in her hand, contemplative. "I never wanted to spread my own word, I wanted to spread Seira's. So now what do I do? You've defined yourself so well, Alicia."
"This may be difficult to hear, but you're going to have to find those small differences you have with Seira and dig into them. Not to oppose her but simply because you need to stand out as a unique existence with a message of your own. I'm certain it will complement Seira's, but it has to be its own thing. If you struggle with this, if self-reflection is difficult, it could be worth hearing what others have to say. Ask your long time friends how they see you, see if that brings greater clarity?" she suggests. Then an uncommonly sly look appears on her features, Alicia leaning forward in her seat.
"Do you want to hear a secret?" she asks, tone pitched more playfully. "Seira won't like me telling you this, but she owes me right now so it's only fair. Back when we lived in Balmuria, Seira would sometimes disguise herself and then go around the taverns and marketplaces so she could ask people 'what do you think about Seira?'" she leans back now with a satisfied look. "Perhaps you could do something like that in places where you're known, to hear an unfiltered opinion?"
Ranbar leans forward and matches your posture. "Oh!" A smile appears on her face, "That is an idea. So tell me - what do you think about Seira and what do you think about Ranbar?"
With a hint of a smile on her face, "My name is a derivative of Lathander's, and yet Seira's still more like Lathander than I am. Recent events highlight this, but in heart and soul they're very similar. They both have a strong view of what is right and how to make tomorrow brighter, and they'll go for it relentlessly. They genuinely care."
Jessica munches on a few berries before, "I've known Seira a long time. She's defined by that as much as her blind spots, but more than even that, she never stops. She'll try and try and try, and some of her greatest successes are succeeding when she had no business to. We've used what we've been given in our task well and Seira is no exception."
"She's like a star in the night that burns brighter than any others." Ranbar replies after all of that, "Sometimes I feel like I'm overwhelmed by her energy and her passions."
"You're more of a moth drawn to the fire than the fire," Jessica agrees, "I suppose it's the same in how Seira drew Amaryl to her. You're not as reserved as Amaryl is by nature, but compared to Seira, it's hard to notice your own light. Compared to my sister I have the same problem - but I am the shadow, not the fire. Do you understand?"
Alicia helps herself to more fruit while the others talk, picking up after Jessica concludes. "Seira's someone who's never satisfied," she finally gives her own perspective on her long-time friend. "She never accepts things as 'just how they are' and always looks to innovate and revolutionise according to how she thinks they should be. Ranbar I don't know well enough yet to form an opinion, but... you said before you've lived and breathed Seira so long that it's hard to be Ranbar. Listening to how we talk about Seira, do you feel like we could also be talking about you?" she asks, inverting the exercise of Ranbar finding her own identity by instead seeing where she feels a mismatch with Seira's own.
Ranbar's thoughtful for a time after that, no immediate reply.
"Not every follower is a perfect fit," Jessica points out, "Find out where you aren't a perfect fit for Seira and grow from there."
Alicia lets Ranbar think, munching on fruit and enjoying a moment of relative peace.
As she does?
'I'm surprised Ranbar's the only one that's struggled with it, or perhaps she's the only one who's gone to such lengths as to consult others about it.' Latha sends. 'Or perhaps we all chose well and Zaphkiel has adequately prepared us.'
'Others may have their own private struggles,' she thinks back to Latha. 'It's nice to be relied upon, though.'
"That...is wise. Thank you, Alicia," Ranbar says at last, expression pensive.
"You'll find your way," Latha soothes, "Now that you know the direction to walk in."
"I will," Ranbar agrees, "Is there somewhere I can rest before I depart? I think I'd like to lie down."
Jessica smiles and makes a vague gesture. In the shade of palm trees inland a hammock of shadows appears. "Take as long as you need."
"I'll leave you to it then," Alicia says, standing up. "Good luck, Ranbar. We're all here for you if you need us."
Then she teleports off to see about Antenora and her dogs.
You find Antenora in her bedroom with Marie. She still holds two puppies as she says to Marie, "So Marie, would you like a puppy?" Antenora asks, a little smile tugging at her lips.
"I'd love a puppy!" Marie enthuses, throwing her hands in the air.
"They won't stay puppies for long," Alicia comments as she comes in on this clearly scripted routine of theirs.
"Dogs are good, too," Antenora says as she presents one of the golden puppies to Marie. "Why don't you name him, Marie?"
Then Antenora turns to you, "Puppy?" she asks, a little smile on her face.
"You know I don't really have the time to take care of a pet, unless it goes to live with all the avatars," Alicia says, going over and patting the head of one of the puppies.
"Hi Alicia, I didn't see you there," Marie says transparently, taking the puppy Antenora offers her. "I'm going to name him Ruffles."
"That's not the point," Antenora retorts gently, "The avatars are still you, too. My avatar can't go out yet, so she's setting up a puppy bed as we speak."
Meanwhile as this happens, Marie senses her name invoked. Anne prays to you right now, praying for a good day of sales as she struggles to improve her family's business and see them prosper. No great danger, no looming menace - just a day to day concern.
"Still, I'm happy with just Martin as far as pets go," Alicia says. She doesn't hold bad past experiences with dogs against this particular one, but she's still not a fan of them.
"More for the rest of us then, isn't that right Raffles?" Marie asks as she fusses over her puppy, sending Anne a happy thought, a push to keep experimenting with different dishes to win her father's respect and her customers' loyalty with a brand new taste that's all her!
> roll 1d100 low is good
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d100 low is good --> [ 1d100=19 ]{19}
Antenora gives the second puppy to Marie as well as she looks at you and says, "Somehow, they'll find a way to shed on your bed and couches," she promises. She doesn't sound upset, at least. "And I feel as if I owe Sharess some sort of revenge now."
Meanwhile Anne's working away steadily, good and solid work for sure. You can tell she's on the right track - she'll be doing good business today. "Hi, here's one Marielle special," she soon offers her first customer of the day.
Marie watches that customer to make sure the food bearing her name is well received!
"I just had a dish named after me," she announces. "Please mark today in your calendars as the date Marielle officially 'made it'."
"There was a place in Balmuria that did Crimson Guard themed meals years ago," Alicia accidentally bursts her bubble without meaning to. And upon seeing Marie's wounded expression she quickly adds, "There was a dessert named after you too."
"Oh?" Antenora asks, "What was it, the Marie Cone of Sugar?"
Meanwhile Marie can see her named meal is going over quite well.
"It was a fruit medley in cream if I recall," Alicia says.
"Well this one's a sweet chilli noodle soup," Marie informs them as she pets the two puppies.
"Ah, I so do love your peaches and cream, love," Antenora agrees as she sits next to Marie.
I'd like to talk to you, if you wanted a reason to be elsewhere.
"I'll leave you both to it then," Alicia says, vacating the premises and going to join Syala!
Syala's mostly just giving you an out there, so next move?
I don't actually have anything on my plate right now, so whatever interrupt comes next?
Sure, gimme a quick d100.
[19:51] <@Ebiris> roll 1d100
[19:51] <Rei-chan> Ebiris rolled : 1d100 --> [ 1d100=58 ]{58}
You take a little time to rest, let events slow down while you focus on other things.
'Alicia.' Queen's voice is heard in your mind as Syala brushes your hair, moments of restful tenderness together.
I hear you, my friend.
'I would seek your council on matters of diplomacy and politics.'
I can answer a quick question like this but for a proper discussion would you like to come visit? It's so much better to talk face to face.
'Very well, I will arrive presently.'
"Queen's coming by for a chat," she tells Syala, opening her eyes. "She needs some advice on planar politics."
As her brush glides through your hair, a gentle and soothing touch, "I'm sure she does. She's in a hard position now that she's known and attention shifts to her. A whole other plane hasn't spread too far yet, but the news of it will attract attention."
My counterpart and I have no great desire to meddle in this affair, only so long as this does not plunge Creation into an undesired war over it.
"It will, she'll have to handle things carefully. So she'll need good advice from us," Alicia concludes.
I understand, thank you for the information.
"Why not invite her right here," Syala suggests as she brushes away, "She seems like a stern warrior, but let's remind her there's softer things in life."
Alicia's fine with that, the two of them currently in one of their palace gardens, blooming flowers all around in a riot of colours and soft grass underfoot. When Queen arrives in Sylica she'll be immediately directed here to join them, sat in the sunshine with no ceremony to it.
It's not hard to get her here. She arrives and slithers on down, clad in her armor and with a nod, "Alicia," she greets, "Never a moment of rest now."
"Even at repose, there's effort under the surface," Alicia agrees, kneeling contentedly on the grass, out of her usual armour and bodysuit for a simple dress with her hair down. "So where are you with your current diplomatic travails?"
Syala likewise dims her lights, to a faint glow that doesn't really hide anything. She hums softly as she brushes your hair, a wordless melody that soothes the spirit.
Queen curls up in the grass and sits, sword placed down besides her. "Being noticed," Queen says shortly, "The more people who notice me, the more who have an opinion they feel obligated to share, and not all are warm and welcoming."
Alicia nods. "Most deities don't bother with broadcasting their opinions even to those they dislike, but some are a bit too expressive. Who's been giving you trouble in particular?"
"Several," Is Queen's notice as she sits. "First, Waukeen kept pestering me over new trade routes and sending merchants, then acts like an offended maiden when I take her to task for it." Her expression is sour, "As if all she can see beyond my doors are piles of gold!"
Syala chuckles and pats your back before she's suddenly behind Queen. "Shh," she murmurs, taking her hair with a gentle touch and getting to work. She brushes away as Queen goes still, the very tip of her tail flicking back and forth.
"Just let Syala pamper you a little," Alicia says, sitting up straighter and smiling over at the pair. "Waukeen isn't too troublesome, she will be able to take no for an answer even if she might get huffy, so you shouldn't need to worry about reprisal or mischief coming from her direction. Still even if you're not interested in her offers it's worth letting her down gently because she has a lot of friends who like to gossip so it could sour your reputation farther than you might expect."
Meanwhile another Syala appears, gently massaging your shoulders as an avatar picks up where the original left off. Mmmmm.
Queen's tail tip twitches away as her hair is worked, "More, Sharess keeps making invitations and asking if I want to play. You blasted cat," she growls, "I have more to do than to frolic in the sunshine! She seems more interested in fun and pleasure than anything else. Then there's Cyric, he sent me a letter that just dripped with double meanings and menacing sleaze, all so interested in my realm and myself."
"Syala used to be a servant of Sharess," Alicia points out mildly. "She's a close ally of ours so I can see why she'd be interested in our new friend. Spending some time with her would be productive and help you with Brightwater in general - and thus Waukeen and dear Sulia. That's my recommendation anyway," she smiles nicely.
"Cyric's more concerning. I've had little dealings with him myself, but if he's approaching like that I'd expect he's trying to intimidate you into backing down if you catch him making some kind of move later."
"Besides, you're enjoying this well enough," Syala declares with a little smile, brushing away.
"Mmmmmmr." A little noise, almost catlike, from Queen. "Cyric is more concerning," Queen admits. "His kind exploits, takes and takes more."
"Those ones are both harder and easier to give advice for," Alicia admits. "Stay on your guard, don't give up anything you aren't prepared to see perverted and ruined. There's no real push and pull you just have to maintain your lines."
"Don't let them past them," Syala agrees as she works, both your shoulders and Queen's hair. The sun shines brightly down, warmth filling you without being unpleasantly hot.
"Then there's the Inevitables," Queen goes on, "With so many blasted documents they demand I sign and questions about this whole new Infinite Stair. They try and drown me in arcane regulations and rules from Mechanus, as if those hold sway here!"
"I could ask Antenora to look at what they're sending you," Alicia offers, "She has good intuition for that sort of thing, but you need to make clear that your realm, your laws. With one exception - if anyone comes to you about the temporal compact, make time for them and agree to whatever they say. That's backed up by everyone, not just Mechanus."
"It's very serious," Syala agrees, "It's why there's no time travel." Each brush seems to make Queen's posture soften, her tail twitching away. More than just her tip now, most of her tail swaying back and forth.
"At least one part of it serious," Queen declares.
"The rest is likely them just hoping to instil their particular laws before your realm has a chance to settle and deeply embed its own," Alicia adds. "It can be worth looking through the particulars in case any of it's useful or you can use compliance as a bargaining chip for something else if you were planning similar laws regardless. Unfortunately you can't really afford to just dismiss these things out of hand, if you're too high handed it can be easy for your enemies to turn neutral parties against you."
Queen starts to reply, but her upper body starts to sway back and forth. She smacks into Syala's front and she's knocked back, while Queen lets out a little cry of surprise.
Syala's after smiles at that and doesn't laugh, but you can feel a faint vibration from her, as if she's holding it in.
Alicia smiles as well, closing her eyes for a moment while everyone recovers. "Syala's good at brushing hair."
That was adorable, wasn't it?
Queen gets up and dusts herself off, "You were saying," she says, with as much dignity as she can muster.
It was. I don't think she's used to being touched.
"You have to learn how to seem like you're paying attention and care deeply about the concerns and proposals you receive from other powers, even if you don't really. Some deities are powerful and secure enough that they can brush off everyone who comes to them, but you don't have that luxury. Also, you might actually be surprised and make friends in unexpected places if you give them a chance," she summarises her diplomatic advice.
I don't thinks he has, but she likes it. Why don't you find a reason to touch her too?
Queen nods slightly to that, "It may be so," she says at last, "But so many seem to only nakedly care for their own interests."
"Of course they do," Alicia agrees, finding a useful segue that works with Syala's request as she scoots over closer to Queen, "The trick is to find ways to make their interests line up with yours," she reaches out to take one of Queen's hands in her own, rubbing her thumb against the back of it. "One hand washes the other, is the old saying."
Raw Charisma check here.
[20:29] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+21
[20:30] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+21 --> [ 1d20=20 ]{41}
No wait Alicia, that's too much!
Queen doesn't resist, and after a few moments she shivers and you notice a distinct tinge of red to her cheeks. "Ah...yes, I see," Queen says at last, eyes closed.
Alicia feels embarrassed but masterfully controls her composure as she gives Queen's hand a final genial pat and then lets go. "Any other issues you want to talk about while we're here?" she asks nicely.
Oh Alicia. Alicia, Alicia, Alicia.
Meanwhile Queen has a hint of red on her cheeks as she says, "...nothing so urgent now," she confesses.
Embarrassment or not it would be really sad to rush Queen off now so Alicia will make the best of it. "Then why don't we get some refreshments and we can fill you in on some stories of our dealings with other powers, so you have an idea of what to expect for your own?" she suggests.
I'm not blind, that was your fault. I don't normally go around touching people so much!
Alicia, it's not me that makes people fall in love with you. That's all you.
Meanwhile Queen murmurs her agreement, no resistance to that idea.
It only takes a few minutes before some adorable coure eladrin flutter into the garden, bringing with them a basket full of tasty baked treats along with a couple bottles of fine wine and glasses. Glasses are poured for the three goddesses and Alicia thanks the eladrin before they go and she settles back with a drink. "This realm was actually created by the arch-angel Triel... who might well have still been an angel when you got trapped at the bottom of the stair, now that I think about it," she begins.
"Unfortunately he's now better known as Beezlebub, Lord of the Seventh Hell. That meant our very first diplomatic visit here was an especially fraught one. Considering the disparity in strength between us at the time, we had to bank a great deal on his respect for our achievement in defeating a challenge he'd set before his fall, and potential backup from Mystra if things got really bad. Luckily it passed with the bare diplomatic niceties, but you can't ever take in person meetings with evil powers for granted as being safe."
Syala settles in and has a long drink, savoring the taste. She puts it aside after that and says, "We may not have won if he fought us, even if Mystra intervened. That may have been the only thing that saved us, the threat of Mystra taking offense."
Queen has a long sip of her drink, scooting a little closer to you. "Is it not how it always is, that evil consumes everything around itself, including those who give into it? I fear that we could be consumed by another's evil, destroyed in a futile chase."
"He was able to use us to undermine Bel," Alicia reminds Syala. "We're useful even if we're in opposition. That's part of planar politics too, playing your enemies off of one another." She has a sip of wine and then grabs a jam-filled pastry which she bites into. "But it's a gamble no matter who's doing it. Evil's always a threat, and you should take great care if you try to wield it as a weapon for it can easily turn back and strike you, or others who are innocent."
The jam is rich and sweet, the taste of strawberries strong. "It's plots, plans and angles as far as you can imagine," Syala agrees with you.
Queen sighs at that, "I had hoped it would be more....heroic." She finally says, settling on a word. "Like you did, you came and saved me, as well as put a great injustice to rest."
"We do lots of that too," Alicia reassures Queen. "It's just as a goddess you're responsible for so much more. You can't just be the adventurer beholden to none and following the path to a new quest each sunrise. You have so many people relying on you, and so many others willing to use those same people as a means to hurt you, that you have to cover all the angles and manage the after-effects of your decisions."
"It's a lot to grow into," Syala seconds, going for a pastry herself. "The support of friends and allies is essential. A single, lone deity is a rock in the ocean, one point of strength against all the eternal hunger of the waves." A little bite of it before she puts it aside, "Don't go it alone."
"There's so much to do," Queen remarks before, "Thank you, Alicia. I have you to help me." she meets your eyes at this and smiles warmly, "Everything's become so much better thanks to you."
"I've been blessed to have Syala support me all this time," Alicia gestures with her glass towards her wife. "Even if we can't be quite as close as that, we'll do all we can to help you and your new realm prosper with us."
Syala leans in and gives you a quick kiss on the lips, "Really though, there are plenty of people willing to help you. Choose the right ones and nurture those friendships. They'll do more to help you along than anything else." Your wife scoots over to be at your side and rests her head on your shoulder, ar arm around you.
"There's more for me to learn and do," Queen agrees at that, "You yourself have so many layers and goals."
"And as these go we're one of the more straightforward groups," Alicia adds, putting one of her own arms around Syala's waist. "But you need to be constantly aware of your own goals and those of others, both how they can help you with yours and how they might see you help with theirs. And you might not always want that to happen."
"Deities are old," Syala continues on, "They're complicated because they're so old and tied into a thousand plans and angles."
As you snuggle with Syala, Queen ponders it and finally says, "To think not how a mortal thinks, but how a god thinks? It's harder than I thought, even now."
"Don't worry, we're here to help and share with you," Your wife offers, "We had plenty of learning experiences and mistakes and can help you."
"That's what this is all about," Alicia agrees. "Nevermind mortals or gods, you're a ruler. You chose the mantle of Queen and all the responsibility that comes with it."
"Then I will crush those duties," Queen agrees with that, raising her glass to a toast.
A toast is made!
Think we're pretty much done here?
Yes.
Soon enough Queen is gone. Syala lingers a moment and just looks at Alicia. A long look before, "You did see that blush?"
"Yes, I'm not blind," Alicia replies. "Hopefully she'll get over it... hmm, I remember everyone turning into lovesick children when we first visited Queen Morwel after the Androlynne campaign. I hope I can manage as gracefully as she does."
With an arm around you, "It's like a rich man finding a fortune - it's just wasted on them." Syala says with a fond smile on her face.
"Well I hope Queen can find a fortune of her own," Alicia says. "She deserves companionship and happiness after all she's been through."
"And you know what you deserve? A big, long, hot and hard...deathtrap." Syala cracks a smile at that.
Meanwhile as you banter away?
One of your prayers stand out. A Baneth of Purinn who prays, "Lady Alicia, this effort shall use the mountains near Parsifal as a safe refuge for the faithful, as you will it to be. I only ask that you protect us against the endless thread of the lizards. If it is in your power, seal this place from them."
> roll 1d100 meanwhile
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d100 meanwhile --> [ 1d100=31 ]{31}
Also you get another notable one. It's Clara again as she prays, "Alicia, bless this treasure we have found!" You see her in the lost temple's vaults, gold, jewels, magic items and far more spread out amid her and her party. "We did it!"
Clara is given a faint feeling of approval for her successes while Alicia looks into things around Baneth a bit more keenly to see where he wants to be sealed away from lizards and what dangers happen to be nearby.
It's a series of caverns he's built in and improved. It's a sanctuary that hasn't dedicated the altar yet, but otherwise it's done. It could house several dozen if need be or even be converted into a full monastery.
Looking about further, there's a few dangers. There's mountain lions and a few dire ones about, though they aren't actively hostile. You sight a flight of arrowhawks about as well, near enough to be noted. Also, about a fourth of a mile away through solid rock are thousands of shocker lizards in a vast cave system. As one they are turned towards the sanctuary, sparking with electricity as they stare ahead. Normal ones, juveniles, big ones and more developed ones yet.
Oh Baneth, you well-intentioned idiot. Alicia won't do anything right this moment but next time he sleeps he's going to have some very memorable dreams about all those shocker lizards filling the caves nearby and moving to take over his own freshly improved caves.
Also she has a check to see if anyone else is stirring up those lizards given the synchronised reaction they just displayed.
Give me a divine rank check.
[18:13] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+5
[18:13] <Rei-chan> Ebiris rolled : 1d20+5 --> [ 1d20=15 ]{20}
You sense a presence - something slithering, something that scurries away from your vision, but cannot escape notice entirely.
Can she identify that presence's specific nature or where it's scurrying to?
No, it's gone too quick - but you can feel it, hear it. The screams, the agony, the terror. The taste of the Abyss, unmistakable after some many encounters with it.
Well. Clara wanted a crusade against shocker lizards, didn't she? And no one wants fiendish shocker lizards.
As she celebrates all that treasure, Alicia picks an adventuresome coure from somewhere in Sylica - since they're immune to electricity, and fills her in on what's going on with Baneth's sanctuary and the demon-stirred-up shocker lizards nearby. Said coure is then dispatched to the Prime Material to meet with Clara and her adventuring party outside the freshly looted temple of Torm to tell them what's going on and convince them to go take a trip to Parsifal. Blessings and treasure are sure to be in their future if they do!
That's done and set in motion. As the courre goes off you...
Gimme a quick d100.
[20:12] <@Ebiris> roll 1d100
[20:12] <Rei-chan> Ebiris rolled : 1d100 --> [ 1d100=44 ]{44}
As time passes, soon enough another event of note occurs.
Alicia, I could use your aid.
Of course it will be freely given!
What do you need?
One of my followers, Yun, has managed a magical grove in a land of eternal winter. It turns out that the Queen of Air and Darkness claims this land and takes exception, and has dispatched assassins. I will not lightly let Yun be slain.
That explains why she needs something but not what she needs.
What can I do to help?
A powerful follower who can afford to take a vacation and help on another world. Someone who will help counter the assassins she's sent. A contrast to the talents my faithful bring.
This is far too involved a conversation so Alicia just goes to wherever Syala is so they can talk it out properly.
"How strong are the assassins then? Powerful's a relative term." And Alicia doesn't have that many that are powerful on a planar scale.
Syala's standing amid the thick forest, various animals all asleep around her. From deer and rabbits to wolves and jaguars, and many things in between. Her arms are crossed and her head is bowed in thought.
"About worth of a one on one fight with an astral deva," she says at last. "But not an experienced one."
"Any particular skillset you want prioritised?" Alicia asks, though the selection isn't huge at that tier anyway and most who are that strong are tied up in difficult local entanglements on account of their stature in the world. Still she can hopefully manage to pry someone loose for it.
"Magic would help," Syala says, "Versatility, too."
Alicia looks deep in thought as she goes over recent prayers and collated knowledge of her followers, then had to spend some time individually focusing her divine eye on the scant few candidates she has that are so strong before she finds one that might work.
"I've found one," she says at last. "He's got a vile weapon that he wants to redeem so I can work out something to send him in your direction for his quest. Could be like when I first went to Sulia's homeland."
Had to make someone up so I guess I'll add him to the list.
Batu Zhen, an orc ranger 16//cleric 5/ordained champion 5/soulguard 6. A hero to his people in the empire of Aserai where orcs live as slaves, Batu is taciturn and grim by circumstance, but fights and bleeds every day to see his people free, waging a guerrilla campaign against overwhelming odds but always staying one step ahead of those who'd see him broken as an example to those in chains.
Since Batu had recently recovered a suit of armour of great significance to his people, one worn by a legendary orcish hero in the past before they were made slaves in this world... it has the downside of having been used in the enactment of atrocity after atrocity for generations by the same empire that enslaved them. If Batu can make it right it would serve as a powerful symbol, and so Alicia will help him in redeeming it if he wears it and bears its blood-soaked curse to aid those who know nothing of his struggles.
"That'll work great, dear," Syala says warmly, "Send him over."
Alicia concentrates on Batu as he tends to a hidden campsite, currently away from any of his allies while leading the imperial authorities on a wild goose chase after having slain the general who previously wore that now unholy armour. He is given a vision of a grove surrounded by frozen wastes, dangers striking from the shadow much as he does with his own raids but with far more sinister intent. He is charged with donning that armour and using his skills on the defence, to show it can be a symbol of righteousness once more fit to inspire his people.
Should he accept, Syala's symbol will carve itself into the ground before him and he need only step onto it to begin his journey, a safe return promised upon his success.
> roll 1d100 low is good
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 low is good --> [ 1d100=76 ]{76}
Batu is silent long moment before, "If that is your will," is his answer, spoken aloud. He rises, ready.
It is then that another vision comes to him, not of your own work. A vision of his cold corpse entombed in a block of ice, hung by great metal hooks. It is in a vast throne room, countless other blocks of ice with other figures within - including Yun.
Look.
From above they fall. Snowflakes, each one a golden coin in the shape of a beautiful snowflake. A great rain of them fills a large golden bowl that rises from the ground.
Turn away from this task and live, the money is yours with my blessing if you do. You need not throw away your life on a suicidal quest. Your people need you more than another world does, and they need the money as well. Do not let Alicia use you up for nothing, your people deserve better.
The presence you feel is that of air choked with blizzard snow and shards of ice. It is like being caught in winter's worst tantrums, let the only anger you feel leaves you numb. Her presence leaves you almost unable to resist her charms, emotions almost muted enough to simply accept her, to bow to her.
The Queen of Air and Darkness speaks, the queen of the dark fey stirred through means unknown to intervene.
It's true Alicia would be immensely sad if Batu were to die. He's one of her strongest mortal followers, skilled and brave and loyal. An exemplar to millions who is having a profound effect on the future of the world upon which he resides.
But growth comes through risk. This is a good chance for him to work outside his usual frame of reference, and perhaps make allies that will help in his struggle.
After this extremely blatant interrupt from the Queen of Air and Darkness she gives Syala a level look. "You didn't say you had her that upset with you," she says aloud, choosing not to say anything more to Batu or the fairy queen. Would Mystra have badgered her to resist temptations? No, she'd have trusted her and been right to do so. Alicia will trust Batu. He's had bribes thrown his way before by the decadent forces that he fights against.
"I didn't think she was that offended," Syala admits, a curious frown on her face. "What just provoked her?"
> roll 1d100 low is good
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 low is good --> [ 1d100=79 ]{79}
Batu looks down at the gold and approaches it. An entire snowstorm worth of wealth before he kicks it aside, sending it away to scatter on the ground. "I'll not trade one tyrant for another," he declares, "Whomever you are, stand aside or offer yourself to my sword."
Oh, you wish to fight me, little orc? Let me show you my hospitality and make that wish come true.
"What?" Syala breathes in wide eyed amazement, already tense, "Is she going to send an avatar?"
Alicia reaches out to the Queen of Air and Darkness directly.
They've never spoken before now, quite simply they have nothing to do with one another, their spheres rarely touching, their followers rarely interacting. Now and then one of hers might get caught up in some Seelie/Unseelie conflict, but always as a bit part to the main affair.
What drives you to act so outrageously here? Who has stirred you into motion, Queen of Air and Darkness?
She has her own avatar suddenly tense and ready to move. Quite frankly if one of her mortal followers is unceremoniously slain by a divine avatar out of nowhere? That deserves an immediate resurrection. But she may intend to do worse than kill Batu.
Be silent, oathbreaker. Serenade me with your tears instead.
Batu draws his blade as suddenly snow falls. Thick and heavy as the sky is taken over by snowclouds. The temperature drops rapidly as Syala tenses, her own avatar surely at the ready. As snow falls in a near curtain of white, a great throne of ice forms itself in the air, 30ft above and 80ft away from Batu.
Know that your life ends and your soul is now owned by the Queen of Air and Darkness.
Take 10 for 69 on knowledge nature (or religion?) to know if this is a legit avatar. Or if I can sense it with divine knowing?
You can sense it's a real avatar. She's not being remotely subtle at all.
I'm gonna ask because unlike me Alicia is a literal god with expanded brainpower who would IC know things even if I've forgotten. Has she broken any oaths?
Not that she's aware of, let alone anything the Queen would care about. It makes zero sense to Alicia.
As the situation began to so clearly deteriorate, Alicia wasn't idle. Or rather, her avatars weren't. And having everyone else's avatars all so close together makes life easier too as she's able to receive benefits from the others as well.
Assuming one round available for buffing, Avatarlicia gets Celestial Valor from Latha, Opal Inviolability from Anty, and Inspire Heroics from Marie.On the world of Temblor, deep in the steppes of Aserai, Batu becomes one of the rare few mortals to be visited by his goddess, though the need is dire. Alicia's appears seemingly out of nowhere, having set foot through a gate from Sylica half a mile away during a time stop spell and then twisted space so that her armed and armoured figure can stand between the lonely freedom fighter and the bestirred fairy queen.
"There are no oaths sworn between us queen of fey, but I'll make one now. Harm this one and you will pay a price in blood," she declares, sword levelled and countenance grim.
Aliciavatar HP: 855+20/855
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), extended ray deflection (CL 39), repelling shield (CL 38), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 38), greater foresight (CL 38), seira's arcane thesis (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), divine insight (CL 36), mass energy immunity (cold) (CL 39), celestial valor (CL 36), opal inviolability (CL 37)
Defences: AC 106, CMD 114, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (cold, unholy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref/init, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/saves, +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +4 sacred attack/damage/AC/saves, +6 bonus hd, +6 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +10 SR checks, +5 spell DCs
Perceptions: Arcane sight, darkvision 60, true seeing, scent, tremorsense/blindsight 60, perception +79
Sorcerer spells: 6/16/15/13/8/9/14/8/8/8/7/6/6/5/5/2
Duskblade spells: 6/22/22/22/11/6/15
Meanwhile even as she watches from Sylica, the real Alicia reaches out to her best potential contact with matters fey.
Queen Morwel, a moment of your time? I have few contacts or conflicts among fey-kind, but the Queen of Air and Darkness has sent an avatar to slay one of mine and calls me oathbreaker. Do you know what could have roused her ire so?
I don't think Alicia actually knows Morwel = Titania, but whenever we visited the Court of Stars there were always lots of fey nobles and diplomats around so this is her best angle.
Avatar Antenora can quicken her paladin spells and has multiaction, so she can give you more if you want.
Avatar Syala will offer you a spell if you want it too, any preferences?
Anty can toss up Opal Protection as well for +3 morale to AC sure. Syala can throw over a Syala's Blessing.
In fact the other Alicia avatars can cover the other elements with their own mass energy resist spells for a full suite.
Aliciavatar HP: 1035+20/1035
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), extended ray deflection (CL 39), repelling shield (CL 38), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 38), greater foresight (CL 38), seira's arcane thesis (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), divine insight (CL 36), mass energy immunity (cold) (CL 39), celestial valor (CL 36), opal inviolability (CL 37), opal protection (CL 36), mass energy immunity (electricity) (CL 39), mass energy immunity (fire) (CL 39), mass energy immunity (acid) (CL 39), mass energy immunity (sonic) (CL 39), Syala's blessing (CL 36)
Defences: AC 114, CMD 127, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (cold, unholy, electricity, fire, acid, sonic), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref/init, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/saves, +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +4 sacred attack/damage/AC/saves, +6 bonus hd, +6 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +10 SR checks, +5 spell DCs, +3 morale AC, +10 morale str/dex/con
Perceptions: Arcane sight, darkvision 60, true seeing, scent, tremorsense/blindsight 60, perception +79
Sorcerer spells: 6/16/15/13/8/9/14/8/8/8/7/6/6/5/5/2
Duskblade spells: 6/22/22/22/11/6/15
What are the benefits of inspire heroics from Marie?
It is unlike the Queen of Air and Darkness to act so, unless she has been sorely provoked.
Yet it may be that lies and deception have poisoned her heart against you.
At your side is Syala's avatar, Blessing of the Twelve hefted up. As snow falls around her, "This will go no further," she warns.
On the throne she appears - a frigid woman of ice and snow, white hair like a blizzard and long enough to cascade well past her feet, off the sides of the throne to blow in the snowstorm. She rests her head on her hand as she sits, a look of cold contempt on her face. "Disgraceful oathbreaker," she sneers, "This one's soul is mine. Stand aside, impotent goddesses."
Batu stays back, weapon held up like a talisman as his wide eyes take in the spectacle before him.
[spoiler]
Celestial Valor, Opal Protection, Syala's Blessing, Energy Immunities.
Syala Avatar
HP: 684/684
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Divine 30ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+0, Damage+0 AC+0, Saves+0, Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Rage 8/8 Divine Blast 14/14 Add Twin 7/7 (non epic only)
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active:
Notes: Automatically converts vile damage to normal damage.
Yes she's assuming someone got her all angry and pointed in her direction, but this goes far beyond what mere hearsay could incite. Has someone impersonated Alicia to the degree necessary to fool another power?
The fact that she also knew Alicia would send Batu to interfere with Syala's assassin thing when Alicia literally made the decision to do so less than a minute ago is also worrisome. That goes beyond there being a leak in Sylica to there being a leak inside Alicia or Batu's heads!
Inspire Heroics is +6 1d10 hit dice (with appropriate con), +6 competence attack, +4 competence fort
"Declare what oath I have broken, slanderer," Alicia fires back. "Else those are empty words to cloak an outrageous tantrum."
Voice cold as a winter wind, "You slew Snowwind, you murdered him under an oath of protection and you left his body to rot," the Queen snarls, sitting up fully in her throne. "You dare deny it?"
"I do," she replies, undaunted. "I have never met Snowwind, far less given any oath to betray. Unless Snowwind was a guest of Malcanthet or Shar and became a casualty of my battles with them I don't see how I could have killed him either."
Give me a Diplo check here, she's at least listening. -20 circumstance penalty, though.
[18:01] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+53 popping a divine insight on diplo for once because I don't actually like her
[18:01] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+53 popping a divine insight on diplo for once because I don't actually like her --> [ 1d20=6 ]{59}
Aliciavatar HP: 1035+20/1035
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), extended ray deflection (CL 39), repelling shield (CL 38), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 38), greater foresight (CL 38), seira's arcane thesis (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), mass energy immunity (cold) (CL 39), celestial valor (CL 36), opal inviolability (CL 37), opal protection (CL 36), mass energy immunity (electricity) (CL 39), mass energy immunity (fire) (CL 39), mass energy immunity (acid) (CL 39), mass energy immunity (sonic) (CL 39), Syala's blessing (CL 36)
Defences: AC 114, CMD 127, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (cold, unholy, electricity, fire, acid, sonic), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref/init, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/saves, +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +4 sacred attack/damage/AC/saves, +6 bonus hd, +6 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +10 SR checks, +5 spell DCs, +3 morale AC, +10 morale str/dex/con
Perceptions: Arcane sight, darkvision 60, true seeing, scent, tremorsense/blindsight 60, perception +79
Sorcerer spells: 6/16/15/13/8/9/14/8/8/8/7/6/6/5/5/2
Duskblade spells: 6/22/22/22/11/6/15
The Queen of Air and Darkness is silent for many long moments. She regards you coldly before, "You do not speak like an oathbreaker."
"My oath is not lightly given, and the prime material is no place for us to settle our disputes," Alicia says. "Whoever murdered Snowwind and defamed me has crossed us both. Let us depart here in peace and discover the truth of the matter."
"Let your wisdom prove true," Syala steps forward at this, "Rather than succumb to someone who wants you to battle us under false pretenses."
> roll 1d20+43
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+43 --> [ 1d20=8 ]{51}
Slowly the Queen's avatar regards you until at last the storms part. A portal of ice and snow appears, the endless Astral glimpsed beyond it.
Follow.
Alicia gives Batu a smile over her shoulder before she follows through that portal.
Her voice comes only for him as the true Alicia continues to keep a close eye on him after he got caught up in such wild events.
Even Gods can be surprised. For now you should move camp in case others were drawn to our presence here. I will watch for other events like this so that you can focus on your own important battles. The task I spoke of before may be unnecessary after this.
The symbol of Syala that had been drawn onto the ground earlier is smoothed away by the breeze.
Batu slowly lowers his sword once it is gone. He sits down heavily and responds, "A-as you will it, Saint Alicia."
Meanwhile two avatars stand with a third on the Astral. There is no sign of anything here, just one endless expanse of timeless nothing, that moment where each second fades and all becomes the eternal one moment, the flow of the Astral felt around you.
You speak of treachery and trickery against me. Who would dare?
Facing the fey avatar Alicia uses her divine voice in turn, lips not moving.
Examining the circumstances of Snowwind's death may shed some light on things. I'd suspect enemies of mine with a talent for manipulation, of whom Malcanthet and Shar are never far from the top of any list.
Also consider that it may not be about Sylica. It merely may be a gambit to occupy you further and send you on a false course. A simple distraction at the wrong age to ensure another effort's success.
Syala gestures with Blessing of the Twelve before she adds aloud, "It won't be the first time."
Few dare, because any who trick me pay with their lives.
But you are not an oathbreaker. Not as you speak and not as you feel.
Regardless of whether it comes from one of your enemies or one of ours, we're all involved now. For that I would like to propose a truce until we can understand who is trying to put us at odds and why.
Congratulations, that's worth a second Diplo check. No penalty this time.
[19:22] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+58 diplo
[19:22] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+58 diplo --> [ 1d20=3 ]{61}
"For now," The Queen of Air and Darkness speaks aloud, "I will find the truth of this matter, and those who have wronged me shall lament."
Alicia will switch to her indoor voice as well in that case, lips now moving with her words. "What happened to Snowwind then, that led to my involvement seeming so brazen?"
"An avatar of you crossed paths with an interest of mine, and in discussion you agreed to tolerate and not harm Snowwind, only to slaughter him.' The answer is short and to the point.
She's being remarkably cagey over the specific circumstances of Snowwind's death.
"What else was discussed with this fake avatar?" she asks, since this seems like a fairly involved con-job.
"Very little," Is the answer at last, a frown on her face. "I did not look as closely. I did not think one would dare so boldly."
"I need to know specifics. What was said, where it happened. I don't casually send my avatar out of Sylica," she gestures over herself. As this is the only avatar the rest of Creation knows she possesses.
A snap of the Queen's fingers, as a slender, ice blue crystal appears in the air before you. "See yourself."
Alicia inspects the crystal!
Arcane sight, spellcraft take 10 for 63 to see how it's supposed to be used whether touching or just looking, then assuming I don't see anything suspicious about it I'll use it in the indicated manner.
It's activated by touch and lets you see a recreation of a memory.
Thus you touch the crystal and you recall.
A winter grove. Trees of ice and snow, fruits that grow of all of winter's energies. A crystalline song is played by these fruits when the blizzard-winds blow, sending more snow about.
Footsteps.
One booted foot in front of the other.
Alicia Reynes strides towards this grove. Her blade is not out but her hand rests on the hilt. A sensation of mild surprise follows, a moment of cold, clinical curiosity.
My servant, a powerful being approaches. Confront her and determine her aims here.
From beneath the snows of the grove he emerges. A figure of ice and snow, elven and of impossible, deadly frozen beauty. As if ice blades and winter winds were forged by Moradin's hammer into a being. A look of frozen amusement is fixed on his face, body clad in armor of shining blue ice.
As Alicia approaches the grove, he comes forth, unhidden. "My Lady," he greets, "You have come a long way to somewhere you should not be."
Alicia smiles - it's an easy smile, ever so charming and lovely. "I am where I wish to be."
Snowwind claps his hands together, "Forgive me if I do not trust you. You must leave."
Leave this place, you have no claim here, nor does your wife.
"I'm passing through," Alicia speaks aloud, "I will vow an oath that none of yours will be harmed, you are not my enemies."
Snowwind stays silent, as there are a few moments.
Vow that you will not harm Snowwind or any of my own, paladin. Vow that and you may proceed.
"I vow that I will not harm yours or Snowwind." Alicia promises that glibly, a confident look at that. "You have my vow."
At this Snowwind steps aside, "Very well then, my Lady, you may enter."
Alicia does so, and looks about. There is silence as she takes it in and adds, "Beautiful," she remarks, "Your lady's appreciation for beauty is not a myth."
Snowwind bows at this, "It is as you say-"
It is all he says as Bonds separates Snowwind's head from his body. He falls over, slain in one surprise strike. "Any word spoken to evil is worthless," Alicia sneers down at the corpse, as flames erupt around the grove. The winds howl even heavier as the flames yet burn, as Alicia is gone.
That's such a bad impression of her! The first line she said was perhaps something she might say but the rest of it? It's not her at all.
How did she kill Snowwind so cleanly in one hit? Any magic on the sword or behind the strike given, or was he just that weak?
"That sword she used," she says after the memory completes, holding out her Root Wood Avenger. A blade of grey wood, mirror-smooth. Different from the silvery metal of Bonds. "It's my old one. I met Malcanthet recently and she would have seen this one. She's one of the few who has seen it, in fact."
"That wasn't like Alicia at all," Syala agrees, "Enough to pass someone who doesn't know her and nothing else."
Your sword is studied from afar, "Someone who didn't know better," Is the answer from the avatar, voice growing colder by the moment.
"How long ago was this? Was anything done to intercede with Snowwind's soul?" Alicia asks, replacing her sword behind her back.
Seriously, can I get more info about the kill? Was it a big arcane strike? Spell channel? Sneak attack? Power attack? Presumably I have enough experience to identify this kind of thing.
Just a relatively weak creature and a surprise attack. Power attack was involved, as was sneak attack. Sorry, missed that in the reply.
"No, I stopped that," The Queen of Air and Darkness sounds colder by the moment, "It was six days ago."
She nods approvingly, glad that nothing was done with the soul. She might take prisoners but anyone she kills she'll never interfere with their soul at that point, and she hates anyone that does regardless of who the victim is. "That was before Malcanthet would have seen the new sword then, so she can remain a suspect," Alicia says. And given the skills she obtained from Violet? It would have been remarkably easy for her to pull off, even if the acting was suspect.
"Although I confess myself surprised I didn't hear you castigate me immediately after the fact, even if you took time to actually prepare revenge. Did you carefully examine the spell traces of her teleportation?" It'd be too late for her to do so now even if she went to the location.
"The Astral," Is the answer, "And then gone. Warded well enough to prevent easy detection or analysis of her magic. What I might expect from a magic deity."
"Nondetection is an easy spell for the benefit it grants," Alicia agrees, frowning as she goes over what she saw.
Was it definitely a two-bladed sword that was used and not perhaps a longsword or some other weapon under an illusion to look like one that I could perhaps tell by stance/handling? Can I tell if it was being wielded 'proficiently' in terms of having the exotic weapon proficiency feat?
It was a two bladed sword. It was wielded with proficiency, yes. The wielder knew how to use it, though not exceedingly well. Strong base skill though, what you'd expect from someone who did this. Just not specialized or focused skill with it.
Does the heroics spell that gives fighter bonus feats exist in Balmuria?
I don't really use it personally, but I don't think it's in banned spells. Moreover, spells to grant the benefits of feats do exist as it is, so it's hardly impossible for a spell to cover that.
"Lets break down precisely what we know about the killer?" Alicia says, starting to extend her fingers as she marks off points.
"She possessed the divine resonance of an avatar or quasideity. She possessed magic strong enough to obscure her spells from a power of your rank," a nod towards the Queen of Air and Darkness, "She slew Snowwind with a two-bladed sword that was wielded with the skill of one trained but not specialised in using such a weapon. Her natural skill at arms was correspondingly high to match her magical talent. She struck with a single attack trading accuracy for power, but still taking advantage of lowered guard to maximise the killing power of her blow.
"Those are the only facts we can take for certain. Anything else relies on conjecture. Skill with these weapons is rare but there is magic that can be used to temporarily impart it, though the aptitude for attacking by surprise displayed is at least a bit less easy to come by."
Syala taps the bottom of Blessing of the Twelve on the ground. She's quiet as you speak, but once you finish, "She also knew enough to imitate you, but not about recent events," Syala points out, "So it's probably not someone who deals with us often or someone who has a spy there. More, this doesn't feel like Malcanthet based on recent actions. She could do it, but it doesn't match what's she's trying."
"Someone who wishes to provoke the three of us," The Queen of Air and Darkness points out, "That is the strand that unites this."
"I keep wanting to point the finger at Malcanthet for this," Alicia admits. "But I worry that's my own bias trying to force a conclusion without enough evidence behind it. You're right it could be a multi-pronged effort, first to put us in open conflict with the Unseelie, and if that fails to intensify our efforts against the Abyss."
She drums her fingers against her thigh. "Someone comfortable with lies and deception, to the point that they can not only masquerade as another but freely give oaths they intend to break within seconds."
There was one other thing, the flames at the end. Alter reality? A spell-like ability? Which spell was used?
A hard thing for most to discern, but you are a goddess of magic. You're pretty sure it was an item, actually. Very subtly activated, possibly by telepathic message or command. The sword, you think, remembering and focusing your will on it.
"I think... I'm not sure, but I'm confident at the end? The fire was caused by the sword. A magic item, not divine power - perhaps because she knew such a display would be too revealing of her own power?" Alicia adds one more piece to the puzzle as back in Sylica her true self divines that particular piece.
[20:01] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+114 real Alicia knowledge arcana, divine insight, guidance of the avatar, improvisation
[20:01] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+114 real Alicia knowledge arcana, divine insight, guidance of the avatar, improvisation --> [ 1d20=18 ]{132}
Basically rolling to know of any notable magic two-bladed swords able to conjure up big firestorms on command. Seems pretty niche!
There's only one you can think of offhand - Ssilresizz. It's said to be the bone of a primal fire elemental, and was last known to be held by Imix.
The name means Burning Bone in Ignan, roughly.
"The sword could have been custom made for the ruse, whoever did this clearly has resources to spare. But otherwise that ability on a magic sword of that shape is sufficiently rare, the only one I'm familiar with is in the hands of Imix. We came into conflict during the recent war on fire although I personally had few dealings with him, so it's possible I could be an incidental target of opportunistic spite depending on what your own relationship with him is like," Alicia speculates. A fire archomental and a winter fey queen aren't exactly going to be best of friends after all, and if the Queen of Air and Darkness has had recent conflict with him then it provides a motive.
And honestly, the bad acting job? Unless done deliberately to editorialise their own bad opinion of Alicia, she'd expect Malcanthet or Shar to be able to give better performances if they felt the need. Imix on the other hand has had next to no interactions with her to guide his acting.
"Imix," The name is spat out like a curse, "A fool who would dare to cross me," The Queen of Air and Darkness agrees.
A thin smile dances on Syala's face as...
It could even be a faction of the efreet behind this, too. We do have enemies on Fire, even if we're not Seira herself. It's not conclusive, but I hesitate to jump to a conclusion when this much guile and trickery is already on display.
"Are the two of you sufficiently at odds that the scheme feels likely as a means for him to distract you?" Alicia asks.
It's actually quite novel for her to be the one caught incidentally in this thing rather than the primary victim if this turns out to be the case, but she's warming to the theory.
"We do not like each other, but we did not have any great enmity until this day," The Queen of Air and Darkness concurs, her fist balled up now. "Perhaps he wishes to steal fey away from winter and to his court. He will freeze in winter's heart for his crime."
"The evidence remains only circumstantial, but that might be the best we get from this," Alicia admits. "The sword in question is called Ssilresizz. Seeing its effects first hand could serve as more conclusive proof."
"It is likely all we will get," The Queen agrees.
I still wonder, but we may not ever have a conclusive answer.
"Perhaps so. I shall be watching Imix more carefully now but it's not enough to justify an attack, or even an accusation," Alicia admits. Maybe getting an ally to try and trade something for Ssilresizz by proxy? Even then, even if the fire it produces matches what was in the memory, it's still only a circumstantial link through an easily copied magical effect.
"That takes us back to where we were at the outset of this confrontation. I can't well send Batu on the same quest after that display, and despite our differences it leaves an ill taste to compete after being on the same side of this ploy. Might you and Syala be able to reach some sort of compromise over Yun's grove?"
The cold gaze of the Queen of the Dark Fey is on Syala, who steps forward. She spreads her arms wide, "We could go to war over this, but that just gives our impostor what they want. Had Yun given offense before this, beyond the grove?"
With a voice of the winter winds, the answer is, "No." Short and simple there, no elaboration.
"Yun lets the grove go. In exchange, you offer three worthwhile locations in the same world to be peacefully handed over to my own without malice, quarrel and in perpetuity. None of yours or those motivated by yours will interfere with these locations or their expansion. None will be in places of eternal winter."
"Yours will not harm mine in that world, for 300 years," The Queen commands back. "In that world, the Unseelie shall have nothing to fear from Sylica."
It's give and take, and it's a similar sort of deal to the one she rejected from Malcanthet. The Unseelie aren't as big a threat to Alicia's entire dogma, but they're more objectionable to Syala who actually has an interest in wild places.
"I'm prepared to work with those restrictions and we can speak for the rest of Sylica here, but I don't keep such a tight grip on my worshippers and the fights they get into," Alicia says. "However I would like wording put in place to allow for duels to be used to settle conflict in the case of irreconcilable differences, or some other method to resolve emnities that crop up. If one of mine has a friend or subject slain by an unseelie then all me forbidding them from acting does is lose me a worshipper and send someone unaffiliated into the wild with blood on their mind."
There is a long pause, "Very well," The Queen agrees at last, and with a brittle, wintry smile, "We both have greater enemies."
"Indeed. Syala?" Alicia asks the nature goddess who's going to be far more affected by these restrictions. But she did ask for eternal ownership of three spots so she must be getting what she paid for.
With her own less than friendly smile, "Accepted," she says, "I refuse to dance for another's machinations."
"Then the terms are accepted. Should we learn anything more of Snowwind's killer we will be in touch," Alicia volunteers, opening a gate for her and Syala's avatars to return to Sylica.
Meanwhile, the true Syala slowly exhales. "Do you think it's Imix?" she asks, baldly.
"I started the conversation ninety percent sure it was Malcanthet. Now she's far down the list and Imix is my best guess at fifty percent," Alicia says. "There's enough incidental hostility to justify it, the poor rendition fits someone unfamiliar with me through contact or study, and the link with that sword is somewhat compelling. But it's not enough to openly declare."
"I'd give him forty percent," Syala says with a little hm, "I'm surprised the entire plot worked at all. I wonder if that was the first time our trouble maker tried it?"
"I'm not sure. If I caught someone pretending to be another deity, even one I'm not fond of, I'd tell people as a public service. And because it relies on severely upsetting the third party to the point they'll want revenge on us, catching them out should make them want to mess with the fake's plans even if they didn't care about me," Alicia speculates. "Though if caught out before being able to murder anyone so that no harm is done, maybe at that point they wouldn't care and just be happy to see it go ahead with someone else as the victim?"
"You might, but not everyone," Syala reasons, "My hope is that they tried this before and failed, and that we can find proof of it."
"Lets get Jessica's opinion on all of this?" Alicia suggests. "She has a better head for the kind of subterfuge involved and might have ideas on how to go about it."
Thus in short order the two bring Jessica over and bring her up to speed on what just transpired!
Jessica's not hard to bring up to speed.
"I'm surprised that worked, sister," Jessica says at last, "That's a difficult gambit to play, but not impossible." She sits with the three of you as you enjoy light refreshments and the afternoon sunshine in your gardens. "But it could be done, it's all about not arousing the deity's suspicion. Don't force them into something that makes them identify you. Give them something they expect to see and then something that stops them from thinking about it rationally."
A pause for a sip of tea, "A conman may blind a victim with seemingly sincere and real promises of great wealth, only to walk away with every coin the victim has. The principle is the same, if it works it's because they're swept up in it and out talked and out played by another. Should the victim be wise to it or merely think enough to ask the right questions, the entire lie may fall apart. It ultimately comes down to guile and charisma."
A low whistle, "So he or she tricked a fairy queen? That's no small feat." Syala agrees, "All with words and presentation?"
"A good scoundrel needs nothing else," Jessica points out in agreement. "They made it work long enough for the Queen to get angry, and at that point her wrath distracted her from better questions. It would have worked if you didn't get her to stop and think long enough to see the holes in the lie. You're very lucky the Queen didn't open by smiting Yun directly, rather than a more restrained measure."
Syala sits back in her seat, a breeze from nowhere cooling her. The scent of plants and the earth is smelled, of flowers and sweetness. "It makes me wonder if it was someone like Mask or Cyric, or perhaps a daemon. Only the best liars would have any chance at all."
"As to your other question, maybe." Jessica admits, "It depends on who it was tried on and how they reacted. The Queen's obscure enough to us that it's possible she was a second or third choice. A good conman always has backup plans if the original con falls through. The Queen being chosen is a slight nod to Imix, because they'd never agree as it is, but it's hardly conclusive. It also could have been the first choice for reasons we don't know."
After a few moments Jessica looks up and more quietly adds, "All you can really know is that someone wishes either you, the Queen or both of you harm. Or that's it an even more complex gambit than that and Imix is the actual victim, but at that point in your reasoning, all you can conclude is that it's devil's work and only more knowledge will point you to a solution, not more guesswork."
"We can't really just go around asking all the powers we never talk to if they recently met a fake seeming Alicia, we'd have no way of trusting or verifying the answers we get if we get any at all," Alicia says, thinking over it.
"As far as magical solutions go... theoretically a resurrected Snowwind could attempt to cast scrying again and again and again on the one who slew him, that link has enough significance to tie them together even absent a name or description. An avatar could fall victim to it by good luck, absent any typical precautions against scrying. But we know they could manage a nondetection strong enough to block the Queen of Air and Darkness and that's likely a thing kept up every day because why wouldn't you?"
"Which means short of great fortune, it's a fruitless path," Jessica agrees.
I disagree. I believe Imix is the victim. A tussle with Imix could stir up Fire again, and in turn draw Baator through the efreet into that. Who would benefit from both you and the devils being occupied?
Malcanthet, of course. It hinders Hell and it hinders us, both to her benefit. Naturally, she knew her peace negotiation would fail, and even if it and this scheme succeeded, it was too obscure to convincingly convict her of. Should the negotiations fail, she has an immediate revenge and chance to plunge us into strife. Should they succeed, the rest of her actions and the layers of deception shield her from serious suspicion. It's really a very competent plan, better than I would suspect for her. Perhaps someone she laid with rubbed off on her.
Jessica takes a long breath out, "Which makes a certain sense, but we have absolutely zero evidence to support it."
Antenora steps in from nowhere, joining the three of you and taking a seat. "There is a strong logic to it, however."
"Hello Antenora," Alicia smiles at her friend. "You present a compelling argument. The problem when you reach multiple layers of deception is that it's impossible to solve without cutting open the whole damn onion." She sighs. "It's a frustratingly deniable operation that without a confession we're never going to be able to obtain reliable proof around."
"We also have no onions to slice," Antenora agrees and matches that sigh, "I favor Malcanthet greatly now, but I'll never be able to prove it as it is, or perhaps ever."
Syala leans over and gives you a hug, and then repeats for Antenora. "So, can anyone think of anything else productive to do for this, or are we merely grateful it didn't get out of hand?"
"Keep a listen out for anyone using the specific phrases the fake Alicia used? The urge to throw 'subtle' taunts and revel in inside jokes can sometimes undo an otherwise perfect gambit," Alicia volunteers after gratefully accepting the hug. "Woe to us when we can only rely on the self-sabotage of our enemies, but we really are stuck without any physical evidence so lets be grateful it didn't get out of hand."
Antenora rests against Syala several moments, eyes closed, "It could have been so much worse," she concurs, "We did as best as we could with what we have. Let us be satisfied with that."
Jessica smiles and says, "I'll keep an ear open in case I hear anything. I would hope most deities are too wise to brag, but perhaps fortune will bless us."
"And it goes without saying to look carefully at any unfamiliar avatars who show up on our own doorstep from now on," Alicia adds.
Lets move on?
It is not long that you sense it, hear it. Amid your senses of war, battle and justice, Nial's prayer is heard. "Protect us in this battle," he prays softly, as he usually does before combat.
Alicia blesses Nial with her approval, looking over Aurora and his environs to see what he's likely to be up against.
You see Nial and about 10 other soldiers travel behind Tannin. They're deep in the wilds of Ysgard, in a thick mountain side forest. Tannin looks out from behind a tree, then looks back at them and nods, the points and mouths, 'Go!'
No Ebony to keep a close eye on him, but Ysgard is quite safe with death having no meaning. It's also her doorstep so if something untoward were to happen, she could respond rather more openly than she ordinarily might. That prospect piques her interest enough to keep half an eye on Nial's impending battle which otherwise might be considered more mundane.
"For Aurora and Lifasa," The soldiers roar as they rush into the valley.
Ahead lie a mix. Several dozen lizardmen are here, lightly armored and with heavy axes at the ready. A campsite, enough for perhaps 50. Mixed in with them are a handful of dragonmen - half dragons, all with sickly red scales lining their body.
They're heavily outnumbered but if the others are comparable to Nial then the Aurora contingent is composed of strong warriors and Tannin himself is unreasonably powerful even if he doesn't shine among his peers as a front-line combatant.
But just who are they fighting? Not devils or vampires by the looks of it...
Take 10 for 70 on arcana for those half-dragons, 10 for 70 on nature for the lizardmen. And 10 for 70 on planes for such groups in Ysgard.
They're the Shellblade Order. A small group of roving lizardmen lead by half dragons. They're one of many small bands on Ysgard and of little note by themselves. They do take work from anyone who can pay, though.
This gets them into trouble sometimes.
Not terribly exciting, and this being Ysgard? It doesn't matter if they're killed.
She might caution Nial if they do anything to prevent the dawn resurrection of course, but she presumes Aurora has good reason for fighting them. She'll check with Ebony though, just because she's curious.
Ebony, do you know what the Shellblade Order has done to gain Aurora's emnity?
'Alicia,' Ebony responds, 'I know it has something to do with a job they took through a vampire pawn. This is meant to be a lesson with Ysgard's unique properties, to more carefully choose which sides they interfere with and who suffers from their bad choices.'
She sends Ebony her thanks and so watches the impending battle. She'll support Aurora here, so long as they fight with honour.
> roll 1d100 low is good
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 low is good --> [ 1d100=50 ]{50}
How average.
Blood, screams and fury.
Nial participates in the raid. The clash of steel on steel, the intonation of magic, the crisp scent of the pine trees. It's a blur for Nial, half of rage and half of sheer, simple necessity. In the end Aurora stands victorious, Tannin a whirlwind that cleaves through the leadership and leaves the lizardmen disorganized and ultimately beaten.
Nial stands a bit away, recovering his breath and hounding a nasty gash on his left arm, as it slowly mends itself back to wholeness.
Alicia is silent. A typical battle for a straightforward and not at all inspirational cause. She watched, but she has no reason to celebrate nor judge.
Not every event is graced with the palpable touch of the divine, Nial can own this.
> roll 1d20+63 I'll assume she has some bonuses running for +15 total to diplo
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+63 I'll assume she has some bonuses running for +15 total to diplo --> [ 1d20=10 ]{73}
Soon enough...
I've yet to find anything helpful, sister. There's no sign or word of what happened. Whomever did it is being quiet about it.
That's about what she expected, really. Alicia sends her thanks to Jessica for checking.
Also she'll get Dawnhope to pay some thanks to the Court of Stars through ambassadorial channels for Queen Morwel's advice when this whole thing kicked off, can't forget the diplomatic niceties!
Yet Dawnhope returns mere hours later and bears one thing: A sealed letter, addressed to Alicia.
"Thank you Dawnhope, how was your trip?" Alicia asks, accepting the letter from her.
"I got lost in a maze of trees and then...I think I fell asleep and woke up with this," Dawnhope admits, "It's fuzzy."
"Well, I hope the sentiments were appreciated anyway," Alicia smiles. "Thank you," she dismisses her before opening the letter to read it in privacy.
The letter reads as follows.
I greet you with hopes you are well, Alicia.
I cannot say with certainty who is behind this affront to you, nor can I decisively rule out that the Queen of Air and Darkness may not well be the ultimate culprit of this trickery. However, I do not believe it so unless she has betrayed herself, for even she would not lightly speak of a broken promise. I am aware that the Queen is wroth towards whomever did this, and already prepares the wrath of winter for whom she believes is the culprit.
This act will bring conflict to Fire. The Queen of Air and Darkness will not let this pass. I warn you that you and yours will be possibly threatened by this, and the new order established in Fire may yet prove to change. I do not believe Kossuth will allow things to degenerate as far this time, he has indicated he has no patience for a second war after the first, but he also indicated that he is angry with Seira. I shall send a copy of this message to her with similar sentiments, for her troubles in Fire are not yet concluded. Kossuth may well not wish for Fire to change any further after the war and the vanishment of Eblis, but he may make an exception for Seira.
I would council you towards great caution and greater vigilance, for even if events reveal that you are tertiary to these events, that you are nonetheless involved. My dear friend, do not lower your guard now against the dark fey, nor against Fire or whomever used you in such a churlish and unworthy manner. Know also that winter comes from many sources and not all of them may be allied against you at this hour, no matter how intensely the flames burn before you.
My beloved Faerinaal and my beloved Gwynharwyf speak of the Godsrush. You have my most sincere congratulations in your triumphs. No longer do you and Syala stand alone. I can speak long and well of the benefits to more than a single other in your realm, and I pray that your efforts there will see Sylica's continued growth and prosperity. I laud Antenora most of all, not to disparage the others, but that her rise is the steepest and most profound of any other in Sylica. She is a testament to the meaning you have achieved, and the proof that you shall mark Creation for eons to come. May Sylica only grow in the coming ages, and may eternity settle on you like a fine mantle.
I bid you farewell now, and hope that the day comes where we meet face to face soon. Until that day, may all the stars in the Heavens shine on you and offer you their glory.
QM.
What a nice letter! It seems like Morwel is aware of the speculation that pointed towards Imix, perhaps from obvious moves the Queen of Air and Darkness has already made? It's troubling to know that Kossuth is angry with Seira, as many of their adventures in the past were done in his sight - for a time Alicia even changed her primary weapon on account of him, so for someone she'd generally considered 'aloof but supportive' to turn hostile is concerning indeed. Since Morwel is already sending her counsel to Seira Alicia needn't add to it.
For now she'll share the contents of this letter with her friends, both so they can hear Morwel's advice and particularly so Antenora can enjoy the special praise she got singled out for.
It's not hard to get everyone together. It's a country manor, a new one that looks out of a childhood fairy tale. White stallions graze in the grasses here, as a fountain burbles in the front. A cool breeze contrasts the warm sun, a hedge maze nearby and many, many fruit tree groves beyond that. It is the idyllic countryside, not a hint of discord or problem at all.
Just outside of the back doors out is a shaded patio where the six of you gather. As Antenora reads the letter and smiles, Syala looks over her shoulder to do the same, hands on Antenora's shoulders. "As nice as the complement is, it also warns of more troubles in Fire. There's too many who don't like the current status quo there."
"Far too many," Jessica agrees, "Displaced efreet nobles and interests alone are considerable. Though speaking of nobles, which of us made this house?"
"I did," Latha turns to look over it, "Between my will and the works of a few faithful. It's actually a gift for your parents, Alicia, though I doubt they will use it often. I also intend to use it to entertain guests who prefer somewhere less crowded than Mercia or Liberton."
"Mm." A little noise from Jessica, "Regardless of that, I do think Morwel may be right. This may well be nothing but a means to rile up Fire. Sister, we should take action in Fire, somehow and in some way. At the least Zaaman Rul should be told that trouble looms."
"Do remember that we're bound by the peace accords signed to end the war with the efreet," Alicia reminds everyone. "I've no desire to stir things up on fire, and without having anything tangible to warn Zaaman Rul of simply telling him 'there's going to be trouble' is unhelpful at best."
"Nevermind that," Marie says, breezily brushing the whole thing aside. "Morwel warned you about dark fey - there's a lot to take away from that. Is the Queen of Air and Darkness going to cause us trouble elsewhere to make up for the arrangement on that one world? Are we going to see problems from other unseelie that don't like her easing up? Was this entire thing an inside job?"
This provokes a relevant question, are there Fey with divine rank other than Titania and the Queen of Air and Darkness?
Oberon is, and a few other fey deities I've never had reason to get into. Same on the Unseelie Fey side. Despite Afina, the greater fey hierarchy has never gotten a lot of time in depth. I can take a bit and go into it if you want names and details.
Just knowing that there are others is sufficient for Marie's point that one of them could have done it works here.
I guess that answer serves as a meta-spoiler that it wasn't one of them though!
Unless the DM is being trickier than usual, admittedly.
"We don't know," Antenora looks up from the letter, and with a quirk of her lipsup, "Why don't you and Syala try to reason it out with logic?"
Jessica rolls her eyes with a fond smile before, "I'll look into that as well, sister."
"Ahem," Latha clears her throat, "There's another thing to be discussed. I have something for you, Marielle."
"Well, our culprit was a ready oathbreaker which makes me disbelieve it could have been a fey," Alicia contributes before they can go too far down that road.
"Oh, is it ready?" Marie pivots on her heel to smile widely at Latha.
Latha nods slightly and stands, "Come with me, Marie."
Thus the two go inside and soon enough...
Go ahead and intro your new gown, Marie.
"Thank you for making this for me Latha, I know this sort of deception isn't your forte so I really appreciate you going out of your comfort zone for me," Marie says to the truth-obsessed deva as she regards the item hanging off a mannequin waiting for her, both her and Latha strong enough of will to avoid being drawn into the phantom possibilities heralded within the multi-coloured facets it shows in its natural form.
Having been intimate with Latha in the past and generally uncaring of nudity as a consequence of her ethereal form knocking her clothes off whenever she uses it, Marie shows little compunction about stripping off her current fancy ballgown type dress before she garbs herself in Fantasia. Settling it over her shoulders and teasing her hair back out to sweep behind her head, she closes her eyes and the clingy robe alters itself into a rather elaborate green longcoat open at the front and showing a white inner lining behind her legs which are now clad in pants of a lighter green shade to match the shirt worn over her upper body, a fancy pink butterfly bow tie below her neck to add a touch of whimsy to the professionally cut attire. "It can do whole outfits nicely," she approves, adjusting her white gloves and tapping the heels of her leather boots on the ground.
Suitably shown off to Latha she and the artifact maker go back outside to join the others, Marie preening in her new look. "Sorry for the wait, Latha made me something nice."
"You look like you're about to go into court," Alicia says, the outfit a radical departure from Marie's typical airy dresses and elaborate gowns.
"Maybe I'm just being serious!" Marie declares in a voice that's anything but, tossing her hair back over her shoulder.
Latha nods to Marie as she dresses, "You're welcome. Be well with it, Marie." Thus you emerge out and...
"Truly the Last Day is on us," Antenora deadpans, before she smiles widely, "It's beautiful, Marie."
Jessica claps slowly, "I like it! It's very fetching on you."
Syala looks it over, "That or you're going to compete with Sune for the most hearts you can enspell. Marie, it's stunning. Gorgeous."
To this Antenora adds, "It's very much like you, Marie." She rises, a shimmer as her armor fades away. She is clad in a long, trailing and clingy gown of soft black. Her hair is tied back with a slender ribbon of white as she offers Marie her hand. Golden earrings join the look, little chips of opal decorating them, with matching bracelets as well. "May I have the first dance, Lady Marielle?"
A soft laugh from Jessica, "There's hardly a dance to be had!"
To this Latha merely bows her head down. The sun sets in a moment, the gentle darkness of the starry night sky above you. The moon is bright and full, more than enough light to be seen by.
At this Syala drifts over to Alicia, arms around her from behind. "A romantic dance, is it? We can't let them dance alone."
Marie smiles at Latha for the romantic backdrop and adds her own illusory orchestra to provide a suitably sweeping romantic score for them as she takes Antenora's hand and dances better than anyone can, leading Antenora.
Alicia takes the time to swap out of her own armour for a more restrained silk blue ballgown so she can dance with Syala, trading partners to get Jessica and Latha involved in the mix.
Dancing and celebrations, smiles and laughter. It's a peaceful time, an oasis amid greater threats.
Eventually, you dance with Jessica. As you do, quietly, "How limited are we in Fire, sister?"
So looking over the thread it seems like we're bound to a peace treaty with the efreet for a century, but I'm not sure if the treaty includes co-belligerents - we're included for 'Cauldron and allies' as an ally, is Imix similarly on it as 'efreet and allies'? I know the dao weren't and Imix wasn't mentioned at all.
The dao made a separate treaty when it was clear this was was going south and Baator was dicking everyone on their side, as I recall. They got out, took some lumps and played the long game after Akil bailed the efreet out.
Imix and Zaaman Rul are at a tentative peace as a result of that treaty, for as long as it lasts. I'm not sure either side believes it'll hold, but it is in effect, yes. If nothing else, force replenishment takes time.
"It's complicated, while our treaty only applies to the efreet we hardly want to risk setting Imix off again when he and Zaaman Rul are at a more tentative accord, and we're 'encouraged' to keep our conflict with devils to a lower ebb for the moment for Zaphkiel's sake. Add in Kossuth's likelihood of coming down extremely hard on any instigators right now and we have to be extremely careful in how we comport ourselves over there," Alicia explains as she and her sister do a waltz.
"A very soft touch," she murmurs. "It may be best to start with refugees from Fire, I understand many of them have established themselves in Magma, Smoke, Radiance and Ash."
"Start what specifically?" Alicia asks. "What are you planning, Jessica?"
Meanwhile Antenora dances with Syala, the two hand in hand and smiling. Latha and Marie currently dance as well, while Jessica says, "If things do go completely wrong, a few sympathetic parties could be helpful."
That explains literally nothing. "What things are you expecting to go wrong? Do you want to go start fights on Fire? And get refugees to back you up?"
"Someone may be stirring the pot in Fire, sister," Jessica replies as you dance, "If it is stirred and events erupt, then I want extra resources. If not...not. After such a loss, there are efreet that may be receptive to a change they never would be otherwise. If the Crimson Firebrand could reshape all of Fire, then I can at least change the fate of a few sparks."
"So your plan is to cultivate refugees on neighbouring planes so you can use them as an army to join in if anyone starts to fight on Fire? That's ambitious, and rather reckless," Alicia cautions. "I worry that having such resources might provoke you to pursue situations where they can be used and escalate tensions even further over there."
"I can cultivate resources that can be used when the time is right," Jessica shakes her head, "I won't recklessly unleash them prematurely."
"It is ambitious," Antenora calls as you pass by her and Syala, the two coming to a stop.
Meanwhile...
"Guide me, Alicia," A quiet prayer from Ayane. You see her in dark streets, hooded and disguised, as she searches. Searches for information, searches for traitors.
Searching for traitors against the empire who'll join her rebellion, or searches for traitors against the rebellion?
You'd think the first because this kind of search isn't conducive for rooting out internal dissent but most rebels don't call themselves traitors.
"Just be careful, we were only now warned explicitly of Kossuth's lack of patience for others interfering on Fire. I don't want to make him our enemy," she says to Jessica.
"I'll be subtle, sister," Jessica says, "And if he tells me to stop, I'll stop."
Cool, what about the Ayane stuff? If it wasn't stated clearly enough Alicia is looking more deeply into the situation to clarify her response.
Ayane searches for answers at night, searching for information about the ones who betrayed her safe house.
"He may not tell you to stop is the thing that worries me," Alicia says aloud.
As for Ayane, her entire focus here seems rather concerning since just blindly asking people at night out on the streets seems like a way to get herself picked up. She does a bit of simple divination of her own as to who was responsible and if Ayane gets nowhere on her own she'll give her some kind of clue or hint in her dreams tonight.
You find she quietly heads to taverns, the less than reputable ones. Just before she enters, whispered words of magic change her face, altering her appearance.
"Still, sister, it's better to prepare than not," Jessica says.
Cool, but anything on Alicia's god-powered divinations?
"Just remember that the preparation can be seen as provocative. I won't stop you if you want to stretch your legs over this, but we have only just now been warned that it's a thorny situation and the big power on fire is unhappy with recent outside interference."
Mardyn Oaks is the responsible party.
"Then I'll be even more careful..." A pause, "Or maybe just ask Kossuth outright. About what he considers the boundaries. Straight forwardness may win an honest answer."
Is Ayane on track to find Mardyn with this approach? Has Mardyn been doing anything suspicious?
Well, if Ayane doesn't get anywhere tonight, Alicia will work out some kind of symbolism-laden dream to help put her on track when she sleeps tonight.
"It's funny how often simple solutions like just talking it out don't even occur to us," she says dryly. "But yes it's in Kossuth's interest to clearly tell you where the lines are if he wants to keep things from boiling over into open conflict."
She has a shot, depends on how the breaks go.
"I'll see to it, sister," Jessica agrees, as you notice something unusual. A movement of spiders is entering Sylica. Spiders as large as horses, well over a hundred of them. Some of them drag along sacks of possessions, but they're entering, alright.
Immediately Antenora looks to Syala.
"I had nothing to do with it," Syala confirms. "If the phase spiders did, they haven't mentioned it."
"You saw it too?" Alicia stops dancing just to look at the spiders.
Take 10 for 69 on nature/planes to identify the type of spider.
They look like monstrous spiders. They're acting with open intelligence - they're not normal overgrown vermin at the least. Your best guess would be some form of awakened vermin or otherwise mentally rejuvenated creature. Perhaps a soul transfer.
"Well, so long as they don't cause anyone they're as welcome as any other group to visit Sylica," Alicia concludes after a moment, looking to see if they're heading in the direction of anywhere in particular.
They're mostly milling about, it looks like.
"As long as they don't make trouble," Antenora agrees. "Or go scurrying across my ceiling."
"Do spiders bother you?" Latha half glances at Antenora.
"No, but I prefer not to spear something the moment I wake up," Is Antenora's reply, "It sets the entire day on the wrong foot."
Alicia will keep half an eye on the spiders but not single them out for any special treatment she wouldn't give to a group of humans or dwarves walking into Sylica. See how they interact when they meet any of the locals and if there's going to be problems, but hopefully not.
"Spearing's much better done after breakfast, build up to it properly," Marie agrees sagely.
Watching, you see that the spiders simply look about. They soon find a Felis Knight, who regards them warily - but one uses a long leg to draw in the ground in rough common, 'Help. Refuge.'
"Syala, do you have any handy druids near to those spiders to aid in communication or can you teleport one over? Or maybe a phase spider?" Alicia suggests as the situation develops. "It sounds like they're in trouble."
"Yes, dear," Syala agrees, as soon enough a phase spider comes. They're able to communicate directly. Listening in, from what you gather, they're refugees from a mad wizard who was slain by adventurers. Angelic adventurers it sounds like, who were not gentle with purifying everything in holy flames.
They are aware. They came from the Black Stone, a great gemstone the size of a room. They awaken when they touch it, then set to work by the wizard. Menial labor, all disrupted when the wizard - named Jolbras - was smited with extreme power. The smites spared them, and they had time enough to gather some treasure and flee.
From there, they heard stories of spiders who were not hunted in Sylica, and one thing lead to another and here they are.
That all sounds reasonable enough.
Take 10 for 69 on arcana for Black Stone or Jolbras.
First doesn't ring any bells.
Second does sound familiar. An Abyssal mage, albeit one that mostly keeps to himself. It's whispered he's been looking into the secrets of the soul.
"I'm not sure where Jolbros was hiding out but he's most known around the Abyss," Alicia says to Syala as they monitor it. "They must've had a journey to get here."
Syala stands next to you and inclines her head forward. "No reason not to offer them hospitality. It sounds like their creator deeply offended someone high up."
"Or just got on the bad side of some adventurers," Alicia says, having done her share of holy burning of fiendish laboratories in her time. "But yes, they're not evil and so long as they don't hurt anyone I'm happy to make room for them here."
"Angelic adventurers suggest something more," Syala notes, but doesn't press it. "I'll make sure the phase spiders help them settle in."
Alicia was an angelic adventurer too!
Yes sometimes she went and did things because Mystra suggested it but she did lots of other adventures just because she wanted to.
Thus this begins and...
Are you going to keep any further eye on them?
Not really. Although take a quick magical check to make sure there's no hidden geases or curses or anything on them.
Nothing like that, but one thing. It's something most would miss but you aren't most. One of the bags doesn't radiate anything at all, and you casually check. The bag is carefully lined and woven with lead, as if conceal anything within it. It's done in a way that suggests powerful magic made the bag.
Alicia gets Marie to check it out for her.
And Marie invisibly teleports over and pilfers the bag from the spider carrying it, replacing it with an illusory double for the moment!
[19:36] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+90 sleight of hand
[19:36] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+90 sleight of hand --> [ 1d20=2 ]{92}
[19:36] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+96 bluff for undeniable illusion, minor image
[19:37] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+96 bluff for undeniable illusion, minor image --> [ 1d20=9 ]{105}
Smooth as can be. Marie gets the bag and is gone. What's she going to do with it, huh?
Rendering the bag invisible alongside her, Marie ducks behind a tree and looks inside while she maintains the illusion of the fake bag!
Inside the bag is a small wooden box, polished and well kept. It radiates overwhelming magic.
Box of the Soul
This box can contain a soul as if a proper gemstone for a Trap the Soul or Soul Bind spell, or similar magic. It can equal a gemstone of up to 30,000 gold value. The soul within is protected by divinations as if by a sequester spell (caster level 28th). On a touch, the box can tell the holder the name, race, gender and eternal disposition of the soul held within.
The box can be reused as many times as desired. It does not break, even if a spell would cause it to break or be consumed. It can still be destroyed with normal force, as it is not an artifact.
Marie reaches inside to touch the box and see what soul is contained within!
Hund of Pargal, 1/2 orc and 1/2 fey, male and Yggdrasil.
Take 10 for 81 on knowledge: nature with divine insight popped to see if I know who that is.
A relatively minor adventurer a few thousand years ago. No one too terribly important, but enough to at least be known. Ended up second best against a vampire coven the last anyone heard, or so the stories go.
Alicia only told Marie to find out what was in that sack, and now that she knows it's up to her what she does with that information. She's a goddess here after all, she gets to decide how things go rather than following orders all the time.
Approaching the spider carrying the fake sack, she starts reading his thoughts. This will make the sack vanish in a little bit from losing concentration but it's the exact same time it takes for her to actually read the spider's surface thoughts.
"If you're hoping to stay in Sylica, you really shouldn't be bringing prisoners," she says, appearing visibly now and holding the box.
DC 27 will on detect thoughts.
An independent Marie. We're all doomed.
> roll 1d20+5
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+5 --> [ 1d20=11 ]{16}
Round 1: It indeed has thoughts.[/i]
The spider skitters back from you, a hissing language Marie can easily understand. "No! I didn't bring a prisoner!"
She waited a couple of rounds before revealing herself so that they'd be on round 3 and surface thoughts when conversation begins.
Okay. Round 2: Intelligence 11.
Round 3: It's panicking and wondering what you're talking about.
"Then you don't recognise this?" Marie holds up the box. "It was in your sack." Said sack is now vanishing since she's no longer concentrating on the illusion.
A blank stare, "No! We just grabbed whatever we could when we fled," is the answer. "In case we needed money!"
"Hmm," Marie hums, but since she doesn't sense any deception in the spider's thoughts she's fine with it. "In that case I'd like to buy it from you. This is a magically enhanced re-usable spell component for the Trap the Soul spell, one that's currently in use and holding someone."
How much would the box be worth for sale? She'll make use of Sylica's limitless wealth to buy it at a fair price.
400k is ballpark.
The spider regards you, "Could you help us set up a lair instead? A big lair for many eggs where no one will hunt us?"
"This is worth a lot of money, so that's worth a really good lair," Marie agrees with those terms. "Do you prefer forest or underground?"
"Both?" It asks right back. "Forest that has caves?"
"I can make that happen," Marie agrees. "Keep following the river that way," she points further up along Sylica's border with Ysgard. "You see those woods there? They'll be set up and waiting for when you get there."
Then she can teleport ahead and alter the divine reality of Sylica to make a nice cave network underneath the forest for the spiders to lair in.
The spider goes off and...
Before I move you along, anything special about the lair?
Not really, she's just setting up the space for them to then web up and furnish how they like. Plenty of natural water sources underground for them. She'll get some local phase spiders over to help with acclimatising them afterwards.
Then of course she's going to let Hund of Pargal out.
The lair is set up easily enough.
Thus Marie lets out the soul of Hund. It flees from the container and floats there a few moments, wisps of memory and meaning. You can almost feel an entire lifetime pass before you as it does, all before the soul flies off and away, towards the Yggdrasil.
Doesn't the material body usually reform when that happens? Well, Yggdrasil should welcome him, it's fine with Marie really. She'll go put the box away somewhere safe and go get praised by Alicia for her good work!
As Marie goes, she hears a particular prayer from Lysanderoth. 'Heaven's helper, help me break through!' He's training away hard on Ice, the cold bitter and sharp around him.
At the same time Alicia gets a message.
Jessica will cease.
She may continue if you successfully determine whom has falsely implicated Imix to the Queen of Air and Darkness, as well as to Sylica, and then inform me of who dares.
Alicia gets right on telling Jessica that.
It's also good as confirmation that Imix wasn't the guilty party. Though to say falsely implicated when Alicia only had a very threadbare supposition linking him is perhaps overstating things.
Meanwhile Marie doesn't do much other than give Lysanderoth a bit of an encouraging sensation. Just knowing that someone's in your corner can count for a lot when you're training hard. She sees his effort and respects it!
> roll 1d100 low is good
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 low is good --> [ 1d100=56 ]{56}
On Lysanderoth works, pushing further and further. He doesn't flag with your support, fighting onward all the while.
"Hm," Jessica bows her head, "Yes, Kossuth contacted me just before he contacted you. I don't know how he discerned Imix's innocence, but I believe it to be beyond reproach."
"He must have been approached separately by the Queen of Air and Darkness and verified it himself with Imix? Honestly as the deity of Fire he probably felt the blaze that immolated the frozen trees. But if he has any deeper insight into who was responsible he's not sharing," Alicia says.
"That would make it too easy," A grimace from Jessica, "Far too easy. So it was someone trying to harm either us, the Queen, Imix, Fire or some combination of those. That eliminates almost none of Creation, sister."
"The fact is we have no leads, by the time we became aware of the problem all the physical and magical evidence had evaporated," Alicia is more sanguine about it. "We just have to let this one go unless more evidence drops in our laps."
"I suppose Fire's a dead end, for now," Jessica admits at that.
"For now," Alicia agrees. "If whoever did this is wise they'll never repeat it or talk about it and it'll remain a mystery forever."
"If," Jessica agrees.
It's not long after that you notice something - events in Daun begin to move, forces gather against the aboleths. A battle is coming. For the sea monsters push and an effort to push them away from the shores, away from towns held and away from footholds has begun.
She'll check in on Strength of Light and, barring strategic considerations that demand his presence elsewhere, try and have him move towards the impending flashpoint.
He's the leader on the ground of course, and working in tandem with Sulia and others, Alicia is just using her own insight over War to help direct his presence for greatest effect.
You feel the coming tides of war. You feel it gathering - and with a certainty, you can tell this will be no small battle.
Strength of Light reports that they can indeed spare forces towards that, as you command.
Then that's what they'll do. She'll check in with Sulia too.
I feel the tide of war rising on Daun. The next few days will be critical.
Events come to an initial peak. My forces report that Cape Vital may be the linchpin of this battle.
Does that match up with Alicia's intuition?
Take 10 for 123 on profession general with divine insight/guidance of avatar/improvisation popped
It all feels right. Cape Vital is a cape and big trading hub, currently held by the Seagreen Empire, one of the lackey land empires of the aboleths. Its loss would hurt the aboleth cause for sure. Recent advances have pushed back the Seagreen Empire somewhat, making it assailable if dangerous, and yet tempting due to its value.
That's what it looks like to me as well. I won't be committing anything further unless there's extreme escalation from the other direction, lets hope our side can deliver the win.
Then would you care to come over and observe events with me, dear Alicia?
Unless there's any sudden crises here I'll come visit you ahead of the battle, she agrees with that.
Lovely.
Going alone?
Yes it's a date for just the two of us!
You meet with Sulia in a mansion within her realm. It is tastefully decorated with maps of Daun as well as various scrying mirrors and the occasional weapon. Sulia rises, in a simpler sundress of soft white. "Alicia," she declares, "A great battle looms before us."
Alicia's armed and armoured as she always is when travelling.
She feels a bit bad about it really. It'd be nice if she was confident enough in both her power and safety to just go around in a nice dress to places, but you never know when a deific scale fight can break out or she'll need to rush back to Sylica to handle an invasion, and seconds count.
"It's good to see you again Sulia," she smiles nonetheless, walking over. "Our forces go with us in spirit if not in body. Lets have faith it'll be enough."
Sulia rises and lightly embraces you, "Always girded for war, as is proper for you," Sulia agrees with that greeting. "Now we pray that all our efforts are enough, and that we will oversee victory, rather than tend to the orphan of defeat."
"I'd like to be more casual, but events can arise with suddenness," Alicia says, patting Sulia's back as they hug it out before seating themselves to observe the ongoing battle for Daun.
"Ah, I actually considered Evergold," Sulia admits, "But I would not like to darken such a place with war, nor repeat Ebony's recent performance at Aurora if events called for it."
"You heard about that?" she asks in regards to Ebony. "Well, Aurora did invest a lot in its bathing facilities, and no one wants to bunk with smelly soldiers."
A light, airy laugh that brightens the room. "Oh, I did hear about it, the poor thing."
"At least she wasn't in the lava baths they have over there. Antenora likes things like that but it's never really been for me," Alicia says, just making casual chit-chat before the serious fighting begins.
"I confess, I don't understand how those work," Empress Sulia says, "It's still rock and hardly easy to slip into."
"I expressed the same concern one time and she just looked at me like I was being foolish and answered 'magic' as if that answered anything at all," Alicia admits with a dismayed shake of her head. "I'd always assumed she just put some muscle into it."
"The cultural differences still remain, do they not?" Empress Sulia shakes her head, "Come now, we can worry about Antenora's quirks another time."
"Yes, lets focus on Daun then," Alicia lets it go at that.
Thus you settle in. It's not hard to sense as from your faithful - Strength of Light gathers your forces along with Sulia's, as a contingent of Lathander's forces join in, as well as several bands of irregulars and mercenaries. The battle begins to loom, your forces at the ready.
Do you wish to add anything before they begin?
Alicia makes her presence felt to all those who fight under her banner. A simple affirmation that she is watching and with them in spirit.
It's like a ripple as you hear Strength of Light.
"Our plan is to take Cape Vital," he announces to the other commanders. "We are not going to only disrupt them, we are going to go forth and defeat the forces there and hold the city and cape. This will require a multipronged attack. While our main force approaches forward, aerial units will attack the city's strong points as well as the docks. At the same time, aquatic units will attempt to clear the ocean paths and surge towards the docks, as well as setting it up for expeditions into the sea caves about the cape. Done properly, the enemy will crumple under all the angles of assault and collapse."
Alicia watches, not as relaxed as she'd ordinarily be in Sulia's presence. Sitting happily sipping tea when others fight and die in her name isn't a good time after all.
I don't really need a play-by-play. Unless an avatar shows up all I'm going to do is watch.
> roll 1d100 low is good
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 low is good --> [ 1d100=76 ]{76}
It is a tight, tense struggle. Forces clash with forces, but they are well matched. What's worse - you're slowly losing. Powerful as your forces are, the aboleths have committed to this battle. They're losing skirmishes on the flanks and villages are taken, but little compensation when they're stopping the main assault and starting to push it back.
Sulia's hand finds yours, silently holding it as she watches, gaze here and yet far away. "I just lost another promising commander," she says, a note of pain her voice. "I fear this battle will not turn in our favor, not today. Do you concur?"
Alicia squeezes Sulia's hand, looking over the battle to see if there's any chance for victory at this point.
Buffed up profession (general) check with divine insight/improvisation/guidance of the avatar.
[18:10] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+113
[18:10] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+113 --> [ 1d20=19 ]{132}
There's a few chances - an all in assault, a desperate venture forth by Strength of Light - but they're both lower odds and highly risky. Victory isn't impossible, but the tides of battle have not favored you here. Unless you take a considerable gamble, Cape Vital will not fall this day.
"No," she says reluctantly to Sulia. "The day is not ours."
She sends her next words to Strength of Light, as her proxy and leader in the field. We no longer have the capacity to win the day here. Focus on preserving lives and retreating, the war ahead remains a long one.
'I apologize for my failure,' Strength of Light sends back, 'Next time, we will win.'
I accept it, and retain faith in our eventual victory.
"I've advised Strength of Light to focus on mitigating our losses now. Tomorrow is another day," she says to Sulia.
Sulia gently embraces you and rests her head on your shoulder. The gentle splash of tears on your shoulder is her answer, as without a word, she mourns her losses.
After a few moments of this, in a firm voice, "Today may be barred to us, but tomorrow is not."
Alicia has no tears to shed, absorbing the losses with grim stoicism as she puts a comforting arm around Sulia's shoulders. "The war is long. We won't be discouraged by a single loss."
Sulia rises from you after, "We will not be," she concurs.
'Tough fight,' Lathander's voice is heard in your mind.
Alicia thinks back to Lathander with her own thoughts.
The defenders were well prepared and fought intelligently. We can't underestimate our foes, no matter how much righteousness is on our side. Still, I'm disappointed.
'So am I, so that's why I had a backup plan! Are you ladies interested?'
Lathander plans have a bad track record, and Alicia no doubt sounds suitably dubious as she asks, Could you elaborate on your plan?
'Demogorgon has a cult on Dust. Horrible things that attempt to make things that should not be, guarded by powerful servants. Why not send a message to him by sacking that personally?'
That doesn't sound like it'll help the war effort on Daun but if it's as horrible as you say it should still be destroyed. Powerful enough to require a deity's hand, though?
'Yes,' Lathander agrees. 'I don't gain anything worthwhile by smashing it, and you don't gain anything worthwhile if Demogorgon takes offense and appears. You're strong enough to do it while you can still benefit from it, and I'm strong enough that I can fend off Demogorgon if he appears so it won't ruin your efforts.
We strike a blow back against Demogorgon and prove this Competition is far from over, while I ensure that if he comes, he'll be properly checked. Regardless, a nightmare is ended and we all win for that.'
Alright, I'm interested. Honestly it's just nice to stretch her legs. Sulia?
Sulia nods as well. "We could invite a third and a fourth," she offers, "Would you like to, Alicia?"
"I usually fight with two seconds," Alicia agrees. "And Antenora has been itching to fight some fiends lately."
"Then Marielle should come as well, they are a pair," Sulia agrees warmly.
Four feels a little bit excessive but if Sulia wants the extra company she won't say no. "Very well, I'll invite them both."
Tell us more of what's on Dust?
'Hybrids of dust elementals - strong ones - and various powerful demons. The dust balor one of mine fought controlled sands and dust, choking those it fought, and exploded in a blast of flaying, desiccating sand.'
That sounds like an interesting fight. Where is it and is it close to anywhere noteworthy that might complicate matters?
'Nothing nearby, not after Aurora set back Lixer's plans there,' Is the answer you get. 'It's on a lump of rock called Xinin Nor. My goal is to rename it Tombstone after we're done there.'
Not sure renaming it to something so generic will make a difference, Alicia sends with a wry note, But otherwise I'm on board. We'll gate over shortly to begin our assault.
"Shall we stop by Sylica to gather Antenora and Marie then?" she asks Sulia.
"Of course," Sulia concurs, rising.
Any prep here?
Marie will offer a CL 36 epic mage armour (+22 armour AC) to anyone that wants it.
Alicia will offer Many Moments of Prescience (CL 38) through divine familiar bullshit to anyone that wants it.
Alicia will maintain Recitation (CL 36) +3 luck AC/attack/saves for the Sylica group. Sulia is suggested to cast her own otherwise she only gets +2.
Marie will do songs and things when we get there.
Alicia HP: 831+20/831
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), foresight (CL 36), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36)
Defences: AC 82, CMD 106, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire and cold), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +2 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/15/9/9/6/8/6/7/7/6/4
Duskblade spell slots: 6/23/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 720+20/720
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36)
Defences: AC 95, CMD 89, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/10/10/8/8/9/9/8/8/8/7/6/6/7/4
Sulia will do so. Additionally she'll provide mass death ward (CL36) and sublime revelry(CL36) to anyone who wants those.
Antenora will offer opal protection to all those who want it as well, CL38.
We'll take those, sure.
Alicia HP: 831+20/831
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), foresight (CL 36), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38)
Defences: AC 85, CMD 109, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +2 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/15/9/9/6/8/5/7/7/6/4
Duskblade spell slots: 6/23/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 720+20/720
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 92, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/10/10/8/8/9/9/8/8/8/7/5/6/7/4
Thus spells are cast and prepared. Empress Sulia is in her battle garb and ready to go, while Antenora matches her. "Dust demons," she muses aloud, "Must demons ruin everything?"
[spoiler]
Antenora
HP: 900/900
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Courage 10ft (+4 morale vs fear), Divine 20ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 41/41 (enc) Divine Retribution 1/1 Smite Evil 13/13 Channel Energy 18/18 Lay On Hands 540/540 Remove Disease 11/11 (week), Spiritual Connection 3/3 Blinding Speed 25/25 Divine Blast 18/18
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL36), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes: Can always inflict nonlethal with attacks, spells, SLAs and abilities.
Smite Notes: +2 damage/paladin level on a charging smite. Each point of favored PA on charge is worth 9 points of damage, post charge multiplier (15 on crit).
Typical Charging Numbers: 36 for base smite damage, 72 for charging smite +2 per per level. So 108 bonus damage baseline. Raw attack plus smite is 1d8+145+2d6+2d6 (+4/+4d6 if fiendbane hits). Doesn't include other factors.
Remember everything triples and x5 on a crit when adding things.
Empress Sulia
HP: 770/770
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine (30ft)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+18 (+3 morale, +3 luck, +12 armor), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Channel Energy 16/16 Inspire Confidence 9/9 Inspire Nobility 6/6 Charity Domain 3/3 Nobility Domain 3/3 Suffering Domain 3/3
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Epic Mage Armor (CL36). Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL37), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes:
"Shhh, you don't want to give them ideas about sunshine demons," Marie chastises as Alicia opens a gate to about two miles away from Xinin Nor.
Alicia HP: 831+20/831
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), foresight (CL 36), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38)
Defences: AC 85, CMD 109, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +2 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/15/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/4
Duskblade spell slots: 6/23/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 720+20/720
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 92, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/10/10/8/8/9/9/8/8/8/7/5/6/7/4
Antenora cracks a smile at that and adds, "Sunshine demons? That's one thing I don't think Lathander would allow."
"No one wants to see them, but don't think someone won't try it if you put the idea in their head," Marie says, following Alicia through the gate onto Dust.
Cold.
The air is cold, bitter and dead.
Thin, dry dust blows through the air as you float in nothing.
A howling wind is heard, one that scythes across everything. A wind and an air and a realm that gnaws at you, yet finds no purchase on divinity.
As Marie vanishes and an illusory image takes her place, Alicia senses ahead for what's on the rock...
5 mile blindsight via sensual blessing even if the dust makes seeing with the eyes impossible.
Marie is using superior invis and project image. Anything with special senses that would otherwise see through the projected image needs to make a sense motive check that beats Marie's bluff check of...
[20:28] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+101
[20:28] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+101 --> [ 1d20=19 ]{120}
Alicia HP: 831+20/831
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), foresight (CL 36), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38)
Defences: AC 85, CMD 109, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +2 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/15/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/4
Duskblade spell slots: 6/23/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 720+20/720
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 92, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/10/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/6/7/4
You can feel it ahead, the rock and the building. A building that comes out of the top and the bottom of it, like two twins buildings opposing each other.
Rather Bytopian, really.
Any creatures on/around the exterior?
None that you see.
"No exterior patrols or guards," Alicia says. "Unless they're ethereal or extremely good at stealth."
Regardless they move in, Alicia compressing space to bring them closer to the end which has the larger structure on it. If they're identical then whichever one is 'up' relative to their current orientation will do.
"One moment," Sulia murmurs before you do that. She peers ahead and then shakes her head. "Nothing, either. Continue, dear."
Alicia nods to Sulia and they press on as planned, no singing from Marie to lighten their spirits just yet.
Alicia HP: 831+20/831
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), foresight (CL 36), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38)
Defences: AC 85, CMD 109, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +2 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/15/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/4
Duskblade spell slots: 6/23/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 720+20/720
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 92, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/10/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/6/7/4
How close are you getting each round?
Using space compression to get 3600 feet closer per round. So at two miles that's 3 rounds to get there.
After the first step forward, your keen eyes notice little slits in the walls opening up. Subtle but notable.
Any magic around us I can see with arcane sight (or greater arcane sight in Marie's case)?
Yes, you can now detect powerful evocation from those slits. Overcharged desiccation magic that'll drain the water and life from anyone within it through thirsty dust.
The slits should be well out of arcane sight range since we're like 7000 feet away, was more checking if there was some kind of magic where we currently are that's detecting us.
Oh, that's a dumb DM way to misread something. Not that you notice.
"Someone there has god-like eyes," Alicia says when their strange space-twisting approach draws a reaction. She doesn't know what's going to shoot out of those slits but they're too far away to do much right now anyway. The next space-twist only brings them 2000 feet closer, the one after that the same, then she uses the extra range afforded to put their next step directly above the top of the building rather than approaching it from the side.
Assuming nothing exciting happens in the interim.
'Unsurprising,' Antenora responds, 'Demogorgon has not staffed this with only feeble demons.'
Your tactic seems to work - you blink atop it undisturbed, no attack launched your way.
"Attacking now - Marie, interdict the area," Alicia demands as things begin to happen! First a beam of silver fire slices a hole in the roof for them to enter, while Marie's illusory copy casts Jaela's teleport block and then begins to sing an energetic and stirring song about nothing standing in their way! Everyone within a mile can hear her song, they're not being subtle right now.
1800 foot radius teleport block around Marie, then inspire greatness.
That's 5 bonus d10 hd (maxed because we're all gods, add the con mod as well), +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort.
Alicia HP: 956+20/956
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), foresight (CL 36), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38)
Defences: AC 85, CMD 114, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +2 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/15/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/4
Duskblade spell slots: 6/23/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 97, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/10/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/6/7/4
The roof opens up. Immediately there is a burst of air and wind out, a buffeting that would knock lesser beings back. But you hold your ground as it opens up into what looks to be a laboratory of some kind - potion vials are about, as well as runic circles, tomes and other such things.
Any magic I ought to be concerned about?
Nothing serious. It's all wardings and protections as well as various magical potions and reagents. Nothing directly offensive. Some are poisonous to be fair, but poisons are rarely a threat to you.
Alicia descends into the lab, her feet touching the ground and tremorsense telling her everything about what's inside this rock. The illusory Marie stays close to her while the real Marie holds position well outside for the moment.
Antenora stays with Marie while Sulia descends down.
Sulia lands just as you let your tremorsense work. You can feel it's a network of catacombed rooms and narrow passages. Some twist, some go straight and several lead to seemingly abrupt dead ends. You can feel the footsteps of many creatures, some big and some small.
At a gesture from Marie, tables and shelves come to life and start wrecking everything in the room while Alicia cores a beam of silver fire deeper in towards the nearest living activity she can sense.
Animate objects SLA used by Marie for general havoc.
[17:56] <@Ebiris> roll 40d10 DC 51 ref half
[17:56] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 40d10 DC 51 ref half --> [ 40d10=225 ]{225}
Silver fire on whoever's on the other end of where Alicia's directing that beam.
Alicia HP: 956+20/956
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), foresight (CL 36), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38)
Defences: AC 85, CMD 114, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +2 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/15/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/4
Duskblade spell slots: 6/23/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 97, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/10/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/6/7/4
For my own reference, how far can your silver fire go?
70 feet.
> roll 1d20+13
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+13 --> [ 1d20=18 ]{31}
Whatever it was, it's blown apart by your beam. It opens up into a larger room - and winds gush out, as thick dust follows. A storm of it, surging out as - !!!
This will provoke init so gimme init rolls all.
[18:35] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+12 Marie
[18:35] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+12 Marie --> [ 1d20=1 ]{13}
Alicia has supreme init.
> roll 1d20+14
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+14 --> [ 1d20=17 ]{31}
> roll 1d20+14 Sulia too, matching inits
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+14 Sulia too, matching inits --> [ 1d20=14 ]{28}
> roll 1d20+18 wind
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+18 wind --> [ 1d20=12 ]{30}
> roll 1d20+5 ???
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+5 ??? --> [ 1d20=5 ]{10}
> roll 1d20+11 ???
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+11 ??? --> [ 1d20=17 ]{28}
Init is Alicia (Supreme) > Antenora (31) > Wind (30) > Sulia = ???2 (28) > Marie (13) > ???1 (10)
Open Alicia.
Antenora and Marie have the same init, just reversed. How cute.
"A storm of it, surging out as - !!!"
As what? What do we see? What's all down there?
A great cloud of dust and sand, a choking miasma in the rough shape of a grasping hand. It's coming out and in your direction, rather swiftly.
Alicia cleanses the dust around them, something she really should have done earlier.
Dance of the unicorn SLA, 180 foot radius.
"You surround yourself with a purifying, swirling mist that washes the air clean of smoke, dust, and poisons. Nonmagical contaminants, including inhaled poisons, are automatically negated within the cloud."
Alicia HP: 956+20/956
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 90, CMD 119, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/15/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/3
Duskblade spell slots: 6/23/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 97, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/10/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/6/7/4
Well that is an option, yes.
Okay, give me 1d10 damage for every CL Dance of the Unicorn has. So 30somethingd10.
[17:59] <@Ebiris> roll 36d10
[17:59] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 36d10 --> [ 36d10=216 ]{216}
Your spell sends the hand flying back and out of immediate sight, pushed away by your spell, purged of much of its dust. Your spell is perhaps the perfect counter to it as...
Well that was an option. Anything else this turn?
Anything else around?
Alicia flies further in through the hole she just made so she can better look around. And sense around with blindsight and such.
Inside this room are cages - cages of fading wind, dust gone and calmed by your magic. Dozens and dozens of dog sized cages. A lumbering, stumbling brute of an elf is there, well over seven feet tall and with bulging muscles. It carries a two handed mace which it's raised up, eyes wild. It wears no armor but simple clothes.
Hiding under a table - rather well but you're better than just well - is a gray hound about the size of a hunting dog. It stares at you with bright eyes, as if waiting to pounce.
"Surrender or die," Alicia says calmly as her feet touch the floor with a click.
Done.
Go ahead and give me an Intimidate check here.
[18:56] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+66
[18:56] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 1d20+66 --> [ 1d20=19 ]{85}
The elf screams in terror, stumbling back while the hound whimpers.
Init is Alicia (Supreme) > Antenora (31) > Wind (30) > Sulia = ???2 (28) > Marie (13) > ???1 (10)
"I take that as a surrender," she agrees, gazing at them. The elf throws down his mace and the hound just hides his face with his paws.
Free act for now, that encounter went amazingly well.
"Good. In that corner, we'll be back," Alicia directs them into the corner, Marie hemming them in with a wall of force before Alicia blasts through floor/wall with silver fire to reach the next cluster of activity.
"My, how feeble," Sulia observes. "I suppose that even this has minions."
Quick damage roll, would you?
[19:44] <@Ebiris> roll 40d10 DC 51 ref half
[19:44] <Kobot> Ebiris rolled 40d10 DC 51 ref half --> [ 40d10=207 ]{207}
She's actually not trying to hit someone this time.
A larger hall. You barely get a glimpse because you see it - a great balor surges forward, just after your beam cleaves out. It is a vast thing, raw hate and fury battering against you. It looks on at you with contempt and fear, a roar of defiance as it charges and... - !
Open, you have Supreme Init, I'll do init after your turn.
Between one breath and the next, Alicia is in the charging balor's space, smaller than it as she maintains normal humanoid proportions but still able to slice it apart with a neat flurry of magically augmented swipes of her double-bladed sword!
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+80 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 85 > [d20=5]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+80 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 100 > [d20=20]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+80 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 85 > [d20=5]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+80 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 97 > [d20=17]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+75 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 82 > [d20=7]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+75 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 77 > [d20=2]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+70 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 90 > [d20=20]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+70 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 79 > [d20=9]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+65 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 71 > [d20=6]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+65 blinding speed, 1st level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 82 > [d20=17]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+80 crit check
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 87 > [d20=7]
[17:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+70 crit check
[17:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 71 > [d20=1]
[17:05] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+50 SR
[17:05] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 66 > [d20=16]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 403 > [d12=5][d4=2]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 409 > [d12=11][d4=2]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 402 > [d12=3][d4=3]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 412 > [d12=12][d4=4]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 402 > [d12=4][d4=2]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 407 > [d12=7][d4=4]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 404 > [d12=6][d4=2]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 407 > [d12=8][d4=3]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 2d12+72+1d4+720 if 100/87 critted
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 812 > [d12=11,8][d4=1]
[17:06] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360 if not
[17:06] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 404 > [d12=6][d4=2]
[17:07] <@Ebiris> roll 2d12+72+1d4+720 if 90/71 critted
[17:07] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 815 > [d12=11,10][d4=2]
[17:07] <@Ebiris> roll 1d12+36+1d4+360 if not
[17:07] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 407 > [d12=8][d4=3]
Alicia HP: 956+20/956
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 90, CMD 119, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/14/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/3
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 97, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/10/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/6/7/4
Okay, quick Ref save since you don't have evasion, I'll resolve it all at once.
[17:14] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+71 ref
[17:14] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 87 > [d20=16]
> roll 28d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 123 > [d6=3,6,4,3,6,4,4,4,5,2,1,6,3,6,6,3,6,4,2,5,6,6,5,3,5,6,5,4]
You halve this.
Your sword strikes true, even before the balor can reach you. The explosion is massive around you and yet you endure, battered but little else. You stand in a large hall and there's more. More like him. Balors. The lead normal demons, great horrors lined up like mere minions. An impossibility for most - but perhaps not for one as feared and powerful as Demogorgon. Over three dozen loom ahead, blades and whips at the ready. On each one's forehead two sets of gleaming eyes is tattooed on, and in that you feel it.
The faintest resonation. A resonation of dust and death, of the void and the choking nature of this plane. But most of all you feel the faintest feeling of divinity. Far less than an avatar or proxy, not true divinity as much as a mere taste of it. Your knowledge whispers to you that these are beings gifted with a single drop of Demogorgon's blood, Godsblooded, normally a ritual reserved to mortals. Similar to how beings such as Jaela of Aurora have ingested a single drop of divine blood and been gifted for it.
Amid this place you find the walls and ceilings, yet not the floors, engraved with drawn on eyes. Each is a two set of two eyes for four each, eyes that move about, drawn and yet alive, perhaps seeing what lies in this room or in some other eldritch place. The color of the eyes varies wildly, not the same even between pairs. In spite of the explosion the hall is not damage in the least, nor are the other balors.
The hall is dominated by those demons, each one ready to come at you, to reave the life from you and your friends, to drag your souls screaming into the madness that is their home.
Unfailable knowledge checks skipped. Chance to react and do anything else this round with your swifts.
Alicia endures the explosion with barely a ruffle, looking over what's arrayed before them. This at least looks more interesting. "Try and endure this," she gestures ahead and a flurry of bright multi-coloured blasts cascade down the hallway, nothing spared.
12 20 foot radius radiant assaults is hopefully enough to hit everything here.
[17:45] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+43 SR
[17:45] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 59 > [d20=16]
[17:45] <@Ebiris> roll 38d6 radiant storm, DC 42 will half
[17:45] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 133 > [d6=4,2,1,2,6,2,5,4,5,6,3,4,2,1,4,1,3,3,2,2,5,2,2,5,4,5,3,6,3,3,4,2,6,6,6,2,6,1]
[17:45] <@Ebiris> roll 1d6 rounds dazed or dazzled if save made
[17:45] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 3 > [d6=3]
Done for the round.
[17:46] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+17 Marie init, nerveskitter
[17:46] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 36 > [d20=19]
Alicia HP: 915/956
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 90, CMD 119, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/14/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 97, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale attack/skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/6/7/4
> roll 1d20+35
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 45 > [d20=10]
The light rakes the balors, but it isn't enough. Not nearly enough as your allies pour in and...
Init.
> roll 1d20+14 Antenora
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 32 > [d20=18]
> roll 1d20+14 Also Sulia
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 24 > [d20=10]
> roll 1d20+24 the balors are not slow
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 28 > [d20=4]
Init is Alicia (Supreme) > Marie (36) > Antenora (32) > Balors EVERYWHERE (28) Sulia (24)
Go Marie.
Marie is still safely outside the building, but her all too real seeming projected image flies down behind Alicia and casts a spell that sends a massive barrage of magical projectiles splashing over the balors and assorted lesser horrors that might have survived Alicia's attack before changing her song to a fresh one with the same lyrics going!
Inspire courage, +14 morale attack/damage. Inspire greatness will keep going for 5 minutes because divine bard.
[18:18] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 sandalphon's amazing barrage, repeat/fell drain/twin/entangle
[18:18] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 34 > [d3=2]
[18:18] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 sandalphon's amazing barrage, repeat/fell drain/twin/entangle/quicken
[18:18] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 34 > [d3=2]
So 136 damage and 4 negative levels and entangled for all balors and misc demons present.
Alicia HP: 915/956
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 90, CMD 129, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/14/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 107, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/4/7/4
Walk me through how Marie does all of her actions? Are both spells quickened or is the bardsong quickened?
Bardsong is free action, first spell is standard action, second spell is swift action.
Alicia HP: 915/956
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 90, CMD 129, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/14/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 107, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/4/7/4
Okay.
The bard song is heard, sweet and clear as Marie wishes. At the same time barrages batter the balors, each one blasted back brutally. Tangling bursts of energy and power wrap around them as Antenora is right behind her.
'Any problem if I charge in?' Antenora quickly sends.
'Only what you'll take from exploding balors,' Alicia thinks back.
Antenora's own thoughts, and the more she thinks about it, the more that it's a bad choice unless she has evasion. She doesn't so she'll hold and probably do reactive healing right after this instead as needed.
Balors are up.
A roar of fury is the answer as suddenly dust comes, only to be purified away. The streaks of fire that follow are black as night, but have no fuel, only a blast instead of an inferno.
> roll 1d20+33 balor
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 42 > [d20=9]
Doesn't even beat SR.
The flames cannot touch you, they sizzle against you to no avail. After this failure the brace of balors raise their weapons and charge, a furious assault on all of you. Like a tide of hatred and genocide given form, each one a too solid collage of nightmares and horrors that burn in their own torment.
Quick question, what's your reach, Alicia?
5 feet, she's medium sized right now.
> roll 1d20+79 (+3 ????, +1 ????, +10 ????, +1 ????, +4 ????) AC?
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 97 > [d20=18]
> roll 1d20+79 (+3 ????, +1 ????, +10 ????, +1 ????, +4 ????) AC? crit confirm fi relevant
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 99 > [d20=20]
ACs?
Alicia's AC is 90. Marie is elsewhere, her image probably has an AC of like 21 if it's just 10 + dex. They have to roll sense motive against her earlier bluff check 120 or they'll be unable to perceive her illusion as an actual illusion. Probably write it off as miss chance or something?
They can't beat her bluff so no point.
Antenora's AC is not enough nor is Sulia's. Marie is off the hook.
> roll 18d6+216+3d6+9d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 302 > [d6=5,4,2,1,2,4,3,1,2,5,1,4,3,1,4,5,2,1,4,5,5,2,3,1,4,4,3,2,2,1]
DR?
[spoiler]
<Ebiris> Inspire greatness and inspire courage. +5 bonus d10 hd, +5 competence attack, +3 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage.
Antenora
HP: 900/900
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Courage 10ft (+4 morale vs fear), Divine 20ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 41/41 (enc) Divine Retribution 1/1 Smite Evil 13/13 Channel Energy 18/18 Lay On Hands 540/540 Remove Disease 11/11 (week), Spiritual Connection 3/3 Blinding Speed 25/25 Divine Blast 18/18
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL36), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes: Can always inflict nonlethal with attacks, spells, SLAs and abilities.
Smite Notes: +2 damage/paladin level on a charging smite. Each point of favored PA on charge is worth 9 points of damage, post charge multiplier (15 on crit).
Typical Charging Numbers: 36 for base smite damage, 72 for charging smite +2 per per level. So 108 bonus damage baseline. Raw attack plus smite is 1d8+145+2d6+2d6 (+4/+4d6 if fiendbane hits). Doesn't include other factors.
Remember everything triples and x5 on a crit when adding things.
Empress Sulia
HP: 770/770
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine (30ft)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+18 (+3 morale, +3 luck, +12 armor), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Channel Energy 16/16 Inspire Confidence 9/9 Inspire Nobility 6/6 Charity Domain 3/3 Nobility Domain 3/3 Suffering Domain 3/3
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Epic Mage Armor (CL36). Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL37), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes:
15 epic and silver.
DR applies to all of you, at least, which helps a bit. Negative conditions from the attack negated by immunities.
Chaos.
They fight like madmen, overwhelming swings and savage counters. There's no grace to this combat, only brutal slashes. You find your superlative guard yield to four swords at once, pushing aside your wood blade and slicing into you. Antenora is much the same, parrying from the front as the numbers swarm and hack at her sides.
KILL!
The words of Demogorgon echo in your mind as you are torn. Pain follows as your arm bleeds, your hip is smashed and your leg is sliced. Sulia holds her own as red stains her dress, Marie's image flickering as if somehow out of phase for the assault. Dust wells from them but is stopped instantly, your own defense sufficient to stop this from being worse.
We are not impressed, demon.
Antenora is up. I'll segment this so I don't spent a bunch more on Antenora's combat post, so go ahead and respond.
[spoiler]
<Ebiris> Inspire greatness and inspire courage. +5 bonus d10 hd, +5 competence attack, +3 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage.
Antenora
HP: 618/900
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Courage 10ft (+4 morale vs fear), Divine 20ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 41/41 (enc) Divine Retribution 1/1 Smite Evil 13/13 Channel Energy 18/18 Lay On Hands 540/540 Remove Disease 11/11 (week), Spiritual Connection 3/3 Blinding Speed 25/25 Divine Blast 18/18
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL36), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes: Can always inflict nonlethal with attacks, spells, SLAs and abilities.
Smite Notes: +2 damage/paladin level on a charging smite. Each point of favored PA on charge is worth 9 points of damage, post charge multiplier (15 on crit).
Typical Charging Numbers: 36 for base smite damage, 72 for charging smite +2 per per level. So 108 bonus damage baseline. Raw attack plus smite is 1d8+145+2d6+2d6 (+4/+4d6 if fiendbane hits). Doesn't include other factors.
Remember everything triples and x5 on a crit when adding things.
Empress Sulia
HP: 488/770
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine (30ft)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+18 (+3 morale, +3 luck, +12 armor), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Channel Energy 16/16 Inspire Confidence 9/9 Inspire Nobility 6/6 Charity Domain 3/3 Nobility Domain 3/3 Suffering Domain 3/3
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Epic Mage Armor (CL36). Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL37), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes:
Alicia's composure slips a bit as the demons actually force her to exert herself, being far stronger than anticipated. "Well, seems we've found something interesting after all," she bites out, forcing on a smile as the melee intensifies.
Alicia HP: 628/956
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 90, CMD 129, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +4 str, +2 dex, +4 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +1 natural armour AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/14/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 107, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/4/7/4
Suddenly your pain is relieved. Antenora's valor and mercy touches you, as your body heals in kind to her magic.
220 HP healed by divine succorx2.
Fly back and up, we win with distance, not being savaged by dozens of death explosions.
Antenora attempts to escape, flying back up, taking the assault of the balors as she does.
> roll 1d20+79 (+3 ????, +1 ????, +10 ????, +1 ????, +4 ????) Unavoidable AoO
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 80 > [d20=1]
Yet Antenora glides through them and away, her retreat too fast for them as she falls back to the previous room.
Antenora will drop her standard action on a heal on herself for 150 HP. Sulia is up.
Sulia gracefully retreats as well - yet the demons surge, the second effort drawing more power than the first. "What is -" Sulia says as she flies up.
> roll 1d20+84 (+3 ????, +1 ????, +10 ????, +1 ????, +4 ????, +5 second betrayal) Unavoidable AoO
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 96 > [d20=12]
> roll 6d6+72+3d6+9d6 stand still
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 138 > [d6=5,1,4,3,6,2,1,5,1,6,3,6,6,2,4,2,3,6]
> roll 1d20+49 bonuses don't matter much here since we all know she needs a 20
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 58 > [d20=9]
Yet the balors move - you can feel it, smug, mad hate. Like a tempest screaming at you, the one that just blooded Alicia grinning madly. "We feast on divine flesh this night!" he cries in a voice like the blasting of a castle into ruin, a tremendous din, "Hail the Prince of Abysm!"
"HAIL!"
"HAIL!"
The echo is nigh deafening as the demons bellow their triumph, Sulia blocked by blades at all angles.
Leave.
Quickened Holy Word SLA.
> roll 1d20+83 (+3 ????, +1 ????, +10 ????, +1 ????, +4 ????, +4 spellcasting harrier)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 97 > [d20=14]
> roll 6d6+72+3d6+9d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 138 > [d6=1,1,6,6,4,6,4,4,4,5,1,4,3,1,2,6,6,2]
118 after SR.
Yet a whip lashes across Sulia's back, an earnest cry of pain and surprise from her. The eyes on the walls and the eyes on the demon's heads all watch, flashing a variety of sickly, pallid colors. Sulia straightens herself as divine power covers her, protects her.
Divine shield, absorbs 200 HP for her.
Init is Alicia (Supreme) > Marie (36) > Balors EVERYWHERE (28) > Antenora (25) > Sulia (24)
Go Alicia.
[spoiler]
<Ebiris> Inspire greatness and inspire courage. +5 bonus d10 hd, +5 competence attack, +3 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage.
Antenora
HP: 893/900
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Courage 10ft (+4 morale vs fear), Divine 20ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 39/41 (enc) Divine Retribution 1/1 Smite Evil 13/13 Channel Energy 18/18 Lay On Hands 540/540 Remove Disease 11/11 (week), Spiritual Connection 3/3 Blinding Speed 25/25 Divine Blast 18/18
Spells Used: 1 opal protection, 1 heal
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL36), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes: Can always inflict nonlethal with attacks, spells, SLAs and abilities.
Smite Notes: +2 damage/paladin level on a charging smite. Each point of favored PA on charge is worth 9 points of damage, post charge multiplier (15 on crit).
Typical Charging Numbers: 36 for base smite damage, 72 for charging smite +2 per per level. So 108 bonus damage baseline. Raw attack plus smite is 1d8+145+2d6+2d6 (+4/+4d6 if fiendbane hits). Doesn't include other factors.
Remember everything triples and x5 on a crit when adding things.
Empress Sulia
HP: 493+200/770
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine (30ft)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+18 (+3 morale, +3 luck, +12 armor), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Channel Energy 16/16 Inspire Confidence 9/9 Inspire Nobility 6/6 Charity Domain 3/3 Nobility Domain 3/3 Suffering Domain 3/3, Divine Shield 13/14
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Epic Mage Armor (CL36). Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL37), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes:
Since these balors are actually threatening, Alicia treats them with a bit more seriousness and grows, shattering walls and masonry overhead as she swells to titanic proportions!
Swift action to go colossal first of all. I know this room is big enough to have a bunch of large sized balors running around but I don't know if it's big enough to host a colossal creature. Using the rules for enlarge person she'll roll a strength check with her colossal stats to break her surroundings to make room and if the check fails her growth is arrested without harm to her.
[11:39] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+39 strength
[11:39] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 48 > [d20=9]
Alicia HP: 1244/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 94, CMD 143, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/14/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/7/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 107, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/4/7/4
You manage to make it to colossal, the roof above giving way. You don't need much more space than that as you stand there and...
Go ahead.
"I'll thin the herd, don't worry about the blasts!" Alicia assures Sulia from her new titanic vantage, her grace landing on the other goddess and granting her incredible dodging skills!
Swift to make Sulia my familiar.
Divine Familiar benefits.
Counts as 36 hit dice for any effects that matter with those.
Hit points change to 379 if they're not already higher.
Base attack bonus changes to +36 if it's not already higher.
Base saves (before stats/feats/abilities) change to Fort +18, Ref +9, Will +18 if they're not already higher.
Gains Alicia's base skill ranks for any skills his aren't higher than. That's +39 to acrobatics, craft (landscaping), craft (painting), diplomacy, intimidate, fly, knowledge (arcana), knowledge (history), knowledge (nature), knowledge (religion), knowledge (planes), perception, perform (oratory), profession (general), sense motive, spellcraft, survival, and swim. And +16 to bluff.
Intelligence rises to 23 if it's not already higher.
Gains +18 to natural armour.
Gains improved evasion.
Gains spell resistance 41.
Can cast Limited Wish as a spell-like ability twice per day.With that reassurance, her sword jabs out, puncturing one balor before she targets another, and another, enduring any blasts they might produce by simply absorbing their life force to sustain herself!
I could probably kill them with a whirlwind attack and then take a ton of simultaneous blasts, so instead I'll full attack so each one I kill gives me enough temp hp to endure its blast! Targeting one balor until it dies then switching to another and so on until I've used all ten attacks.
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 112 > [d20=7]
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 111 > [d20=6]
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 115 > [d20=10]
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 121 > [d20=16]
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+100 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 104 > [d20=4]
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+100 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 115 > [d20=15]
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+95 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 110 > [d20=15]
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+95 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 108 > [d20=13]
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+90 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 109 > [d20=19]
[16:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+90 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised vampiric touch
[16:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 107 > [d20=17]
[16:50] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+90 crit check
[16:50] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 99 > [d20=9]
[16:50] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+90 crit check
[16:50] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 108 > [d20=18]
[16:50] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+48 SR
[16:50] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 50 > [d20=2]
[16:50] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 249 > [d6=1,6,5,5,2,5,5,6,2,6,1,3,3][d4=3,1,2,3,2,4]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 236 > [d6=1,2,5,1,2,4,2,2,3,2,5,6,2][d4=1,4,4,1,3,2]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 251 > [d6=3,6,4,4,2,6,1,4,2,6,6,3,6][d4=2,2,3,3,3,1]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 235 > [d6=2,1,2,3,6,4,5,2,6,1,3,1,1][d4=1,2,4,3,1,3]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 238 > [d6=5,4,1,3,3,2,2,4,4,2,1,6,4][d4=1,1,2,4,3,2]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 232 > [d6=1,1,3,2,3,2,1,1,1,3,5,3,6][d4=3,1,3,1,4,4]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 245 > [d6=1,3,3,5,4,1,3,6,2,6,5,3,4][d4=4,1,4,2,1,3]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 234 > [d6=3,4,5,3,5,1,1,4,4,2,2,2,1][d4=2,3,1,2,4,1]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 16d6+128+5d6+6d4+240 if 109/99 critted
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 458 > [d6=1,1,6,6,3,6,2,1,6,4,4,4,2,5,4,1,6,4,5,5,1][d4=1,1,1,3,4,3]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120 if it didn't
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 238 > [d6=5,2,6,2,4,1,3,5,1,3,2,1,3][d4=4,4,2,1,3,2]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 16d6+128+5d6+6d4+240 if 107/108 critted
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 453 > [d6=3,4,1,5,5,4,5,3,1,1,5,2,2,3,5,6,5,6,1,2,4][d4=1,1,2,4,2,2]
[16:51] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120 if it didn't
[16:51] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 244 > [d6=4,2,2,3,5,6,4,2,3,2,5,4,1][d4=4,4,1,2,2,4]
I can't fail a reflex save below DC 74 so probably no point rolling my saves. Each attack gives me +120 temp hp (+240 on the crits).
Alicia HP: 1244/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 94, CMD 143, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/13/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 107, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/4/7/4
The last hit scores a kill, so we'll just roll that since none of them are beating the temp HP that replenishes each kill.
> roll 28d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 92 > [d6=6,6,3,1,1,3,1,3,5,1,6,3,2,2,1,4,5,3,6,1,5,2,4,4,4,2,3,5]
Sulia, however, needs no saves thanks to boosting her saves and now improved evasion.
A slash. An explosion. Another and another and another. You rip through four balors like tissue paper, the explosions battering you and yet no great harm as you use their life against their deaths. Sulia blurs through the explosions, untouched by one and all as meanwhile Antenora stays above and out of immediate harm, as chunks of ceiling rain down and...
Anything else this turn?
[spoiler]
<Ebiris> Inspire greatness and inspire courage. +5 bonus d10 hd, +5 competence attack, +3 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage.
Divine Familiar benefits.
Counts as 36 hit dice for any effects that matter with those.
Hit points change to 379 if they're not already higher.
Base attack bonus changes to +36 if it's not already higher.
Base saves (before stats/feats/abilities) change to Fort +18, Ref +9, Will +18 if they're not already higher.
Gains Alicia's base skill ranks for any skills his aren't higher than. That's +39 to acrobatics, craft (landscaping), craft (painting), diplomacy, intimidate, fly, knowledge (arcana), knowledge (history), knowledge (nature), knowledge (religion), knowledge (planes), perception, perform (oratory), profession (general), sense motive, spellcraft, survival, and swim. And +16 to bluff.
Intelligence rises to 23 if it's not already higher.
Gains +18 to natural armour.
Gains improved evasion.
Gains spell resistance 41.
Can cast Limited Wish as a spell-like ability twice per day.
Antenora
HP: 893/900
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Courage 10ft (+4 morale vs fear), Divine 20ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 39/41 (enc) Divine Retribution 1/1 Smite Evil 13/13 Channel Energy 18/18 Lay On Hands 540/540 Remove Disease 11/11 (week), Spiritual Connection 3/3 Blinding Speed 25/25 Divine Blast 18/18
Spells Used: 1 opal protection, 1 heal
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL36), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes: Can always inflict nonlethal with attacks, spells, SLAs and abilities.
Smite Notes: +2 damage/paladin level on a charging smite. Each point of favored PA on charge is worth 9 points of damage, post charge multiplier (15 on crit).
Typical Charging Numbers: 36 for base smite damage, 72 for charging smite +2 per per level. So 108 bonus damage baseline. Raw attack plus smite is 1d8+145+2d6+2d6 (+4/+4d6 if fiendbane hits). Doesn't include other factors.
Remember everything triples and x5 on a crit when adding things.
Empress Sulia
HP: 493+200/770
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine (30ft)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+18 (+3 morale, +3 luck, +12 armor), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Channel Energy 16/16 Inspire Confidence 9/9 Inspire Nobility 6/6 Charity Domain 3/3 Nobility Domain 3/3 Suffering Domain 3/3, Divine Shield 13/14
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Epic Mage Armor (CL36). Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL37), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes:
[/quote]
Alicia's all done.
Marie's repeat spells go off again now.
[17:21] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 repeat sandalphon from last round
[17:21] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 repeat sandalphon from last round
[17:21] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 35 > [d3=3]
[17:21] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 34 > [d3=2]
138 damage and 4 negative levels and entangled to every enemy still alive.
Alicia HP: 1244+148/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 94, CMD 143, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/13/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 98, CMD 107, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills/saves, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/4/7/4
The balors are blasted again and again, slammed back and slowed. They are entangled and slammed, all as...
Marie.
Marie slightly changes up her song, more magical effects layered into the words to bolster everyone!
Swapping bardsong to inspire heroics. +10 morale to saves, +10 dodge to AC for the party. The other songs continue to take effect for another five minutes because divine bard.But since there's a lot of balors still even after Alicia killed a few, she keeps up her missile barrage to assail them, filling the chamber with glowing projectiles blasting outwards from her illusory decoy!
[17:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 sandalphon's amazing barrage, repeat/fell drain/twin/entangle
[17:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 34 > [d3=2]
[17:49] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 sandalphon's amazing barrage, repeat/fell drain/twin/entangle/quicken
[17:49] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 33 > [d3=1]
134 damage, 4 negative levels, and entangled. Again.
Alicia HP: 1244+148/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/13/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/2/7/4
More missiles strike, slamming the balors. They're starting to slow from the offensive, enough to give them pause. Yet they continue to seek and stab, a horrible melee below that also spills up towards Antenora. Entangled and blazing, bloodied and beaten, the demons nonetheless continue with a savagery that does not relent even now.
> roll 1d20+79 (+3 ????, +1 ????, +10 ????, +1 ????, +4 ????)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 90 > [d20=11]
ACs now?
[spoiler]
Swapping bardsong to inspire heroics. +10 morale to saves, +10 dodge to AC for the party. The other songs continue to take effect for another five minutes because divine bard.
<Ebiris> Inspire greatness and inspire courage. +5 bonus d10 hd, +5 competence attack, +3 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage.
Divine Familiar benefits.
Counts as 36 hit dice for any effects that matter with those.
Hit points change to 379 if they're not already higher.
Base attack bonus changes to +36 if it's not already higher.
Base saves (before stats/feats/abilities) change to Fort +18, Ref +9, Will +18 if they're not already higher.
Gains Alicia's base skill ranks for any skills his aren't higher than. That's +39 to acrobatics, craft (landscaping), craft (painting), diplomacy, intimidate, fly, knowledge (arcana), knowledge (history), knowledge (nature), knowledge (religion), knowledge (planes), perception, perform (oratory), profession (general), sense motive, spellcraft, survival, and swim. And +16 to bluff.
Intelligence rises to 23 if it's not already higher.
Gains +18 to natural armour.
Gains improved evasion.
Gains spell resistance 41.
Can cast Limited Wish as a spell-like ability twice per day.
Antenora
HP: 893/900
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Courage 10ft (+4 morale vs fear), Divine 20ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 39/41 (enc) Divine Retribution 1/1 Smite Evil 13/13 Channel Energy 18/18 Lay On Hands 540/540 Remove Disease 11/11 (week), Spiritual Connection 3/3 Blinding Speed 25/25 Divine Blast 18/18
Spells Used: 1 opal protection, 1 heal
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL36), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes: Can always inflict nonlethal with attacks, spells, SLAs and abilities.
Smite Notes: +2 damage/paladin level on a charging smite. Each point of favored PA on charge is worth 9 points of damage, post charge multiplier (15 on crit).
Typical Charging Numbers: 36 for base smite damage, 72 for charging smite +2 per per level. So 108 bonus damage baseline. Raw attack plus smite is 1d8+145+2d6+2d6 (+4/+4d6 if fiendbane hits). Doesn't include other factors.
Remember everything triples and x5 on a crit when adding things.
Empress Sulia
HP: 493+200/770
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine (30ft)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+18 (+3 morale, +3 luck, +12 armor), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Channel Energy 16/16 Inspire Confidence 9/9 Inspire Nobility 6/6 Charity Domain 3/3 Nobility Domain 3/3 Suffering Domain 3/3, Divine Shield 13/14
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Epic Mage Armor (CL36). Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL37), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes:
104 for Alicia, 108 for Marie (but she's well away from the actual fight and contributing via her projected image). Don't forget Sulia's +18 to natural armour from being a familiar.
She's even small enough to sit on Alicia's head right now.
But this time the party is prepared and able to dodge, able to endure as those terrible eyes glow. A parry, a dodge. Their numbers are weakening even as a dozen beams sail out at Alicia, seeking her from all angles.
Yet nothing happens. Whatever it is, it's not enough to harm her, not quite.
Antenora and Sulia.
'Alicia, do you need healing?' Antenora sends lightning fast.
'Not even a little,' Alicia thinks back tersely.
If they're shooting beams with spells/spell-likes, Alicia has spell-casting harrier and a lot of AoOs.
Go for an AoO then, sure.
[19:28] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 just one?
[19:28] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 123 > [d20=18]
[19:28] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 just one
[19:28] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 107 > [d20=2]
[19:28] <@Ebiris> roll 16d6+128+5d6+6d4+240 if that critted
[19:28] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 459 > [d6=5,2,3,5,4,2,4,4,1,5,2,5,4,5,5,1,4,4,1,2,6][d4=3,2,2,4,3,3]
[19:28] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+120 if not, rather
[19:28] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 238 > [d6=2,1,1,6,3,2,2,5,4,6,1,3,3][d4=3,2,1,3,4,2]
Alicia HP: 1244+240/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/13/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/2/7/4
I was just gonna have it apply to a few for the sake of ease.
> roll 28d6 halve this since you auto pass the save
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 99 > [d6=5,1,1,3,6,2,5,1,4,4,4,6,2,3,4,2,5,3,6,4,2,3,4,5,1,3,5,5]
Your blade swipes through three balors at once, a chorus of explosions battering around you. You endure them as best you can as meanwhile Sulia's wounds heal, followed by Antenora holding her ground, spear stabbing out.
> roll 1d20+65 (+3 luck, +19 Marie, +4 fiends, -20 PA)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 81 > [d20=16]
> roll 1d20+60 (+3 luck, +19 Marie, +4 fiends, -20 PA)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 62 > [d20=2]
> roll 1d20+55 (+3 luck, +19 Marie, +4 fiends, -20 PA)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 69 > [d20=14]
> roll 1d20+50 (+3 luck, +19 Marie, +4 fiends, -20 PA)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 54 > [d20=4]
> roll 1d8+113+2d6+2d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 132 > [d8=5][d6=3,5,4,2]
Antenora rains down defensive thrusts, testing the balors around her. One takes a wound as it endures, bleeding away as Sulia holds her ground, offering herself up.
Gambit.
> roll 1d20+76 (+3 luck, +19 Marie, +10 Alicia, divine might, -10 power attack)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 85 > [d20=9]
> roll 1d20+71 (+3 luck, +19 Marie, +10 Alicia, divine might, -10 power attack)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 72 > [d20=1]
> roll 1d20+66 (+3 luck, +19 Marie, +10 Alicia, divine might, -10 power attack)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 81 > [d20=15]
> roll 1d20+61 (+3 luck, +19 Marie, +10 Alicia, divine might, -10 power attack)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 76 > [d20=15]
> roll 1d6+76+2d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 82 > [d6=1,2,3]
> roll 1d6+76+2d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 88 > [d6=5,6,1]
> roll 1d6+76+2d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 83 > [d6=3,2,2]
Sulia holds her own now, flying up as she pushes demons back. She gets distance as much as she can, staff slamming them hard as...
Go.
[spoiler]
Swapping bardsong to inspire heroics. +10 morale to saves, +10 dodge to AC for the party. The other songs continue to take effect for another five minutes because divine bard.
<Ebiris> Inspire greatness and inspire courage. +5 bonus d10 hd, +5 competence attack, +3 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage.
Divine Familiar benefits.
Counts as 36 hit dice for any effects that matter with those.
Hit points change to 379 if they're not already higher.
Base attack bonus changes to +36 if it's not already higher.
Base saves (before stats/feats/abilities) change to Fort +18, Ref +9, Will +18 if they're not already higher.
Gains Alicia's base skill ranks for any skills his aren't higher than. That's +39 to acrobatics, craft (landscaping), craft (painting), diplomacy, intimidate, fly, knowledge (arcana), knowledge (history), knowledge (nature), knowledge (religion), knowledge (planes), perception, perform (oratory), profession (general), sense motive, spellcraft, survival, and swim. And +16 to bluff.
Intelligence rises to 23 if it's not already higher.
Gains +18 to natural armour.
Gains improved evasion.
Gains spell resistance 41.
Can cast Limited Wish as a spell-like ability twice per day.
Antenora
HP: 893/900
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Courage 10ft (+4 morale vs fear), Divine 20ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 39/41 (enc) Divine Retribution 1/1 Smite Evil 13/13 Channel Energy 18/18 Lay On Hands 540/540 Remove Disease 11/11 (week), Spiritual Connection 3/3 Blinding Speed 25/25 Divine Blast 18/18
Spells Used: 1 opal protection, 1 heal
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL36), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes: Can always inflict nonlethal with attacks, spells, SLAs and abilities.
Smite Notes: +2 damage/paladin level on a charging smite. Each point of favored PA on charge is worth 9 points of damage, post charge multiplier (15 on crit).
Typical Charging Numbers: 36 for base smite damage, 72 for charging smite +2 per per level. So 108 bonus damage baseline. Raw attack plus smite is 1d8+145+2d6+2d6 (+4/+4d6 if fiendbane hits). Doesn't include other factors.
Remember everything triples and x5 on a crit when adding things.
Empress Sulia
HP: 713+200/770
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine (30ft)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+18 (+3 morale, +3 luck, +12 armor), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Channel Energy 15/16 Inspire Confidence 9/9 Inspire Nobility 6/6 Charity Domain 3/3 Nobility Domain 3/3 Suffering Domain 3/3, Divine Shield 13/14
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Epic Mage Armor (CL36). Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL37), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes:
Deeming the ranks sufficiently thinned and the surviving balors softened up enough by everyone else's attacks, Alicia goes for a finishing attack as her sword sweeps a deadly swathe through all the remaining demons within her reach!
[20:31] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled vivacious/maximised/enhanced combust, whirlwind attack
[20:31] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 120 > [d20=15]
[20:31] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+50 SR
[20:31] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 56 > [d20=6]
[20:31] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+320
[20:31] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 440 > [d6=3,3,6,2,3,3,1,4,1,4,4,6,2][d4=3,1,1,3,2,4]
If that leads to a lot of them popping I'll use my swifts to throw up quickened walls of force to protect Antenora.
[spoiler]
Alicia HP: 1244+191/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/11/9/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/2/7/4
[spoiler]
They are going to pop, so how do you plan to protect her?
As the balor explosions ripple out, a quick word of magic from Alicia has a pair of walls of force appear on either side of Antenora, intersecting at a corner on her side facing most of the demons.
Quote
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Helpful ascii diagram showing the basic concept.
Alicia HP: 1244+191/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/11/7/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/2/7/4
> roll 112d6 balors go boom everywhere!
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < error: maximum number of dice is 100 >
> roll 100d6+12d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 417 > [100d6=373][12d6=44]
> roll 373+44
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 417 >
Alicia halves, Antenora's safe and Sulia evades. HP after that?
1227/1244
Alicia HP: 1227/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/11/7/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/2/7/4
The blast is titantic. Alicia is sent flying back, carried on waves of force and yet largely unharmed. Her vision is overwhelmed by light, by the sheer vibrancy of the burst around her. When she recovers, she's a good 150ft outside, the back wall obliterated, along with much of the area. Antenora is still there, warded by those walls of force. So is Sulia, having somehow avoided it. Of course Marie's illusion is still there, for what it's worth.
The sun has risen on Dust. It shines bright - but as you see it, it is as if the world cracks. Twin cracks spread across everything as a howl of madness echos from horizon to horizon. The only thing uncracked is yourself, your friends and Lathander himself. Cracks that spread and twist, seeming to contort everything here.
LATHANDER!
Demogorgon's presence settles over the moon like a plague, a sickness that tries to leech the life out of the sun itself.
Alicia!
But that is not all. From the depths more emerge - several more balors, six in all. Each of these is clad in armor of dust that whirls around them like a tempest. They each ride a great skeletal steed, a cloud of fine debris swirling around them like a cloak. Behind them are...things. Creatures. Creatures of dust and death, demons of hundreds of thousands of specks. Monsters of sand, grit and malice.
Hopefully the prisoners Alicia pinned in with a wall of force are okay too.
"This place is balor central, isn't it?" Marie's illusion says from where she floats amidst the ruin left after that explosion, closer to the rising demons.
"Lathander's doing his part, we'll do ours," Alicia says to her companions, moving back to engage the newly arriving threats.
Alicia HP: 1227/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/11/7/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/9/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/2/7/4
In this case, new round of init.
[17:08] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+17 Marie init, nerveskitter
[17:08] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 32 > [d20=15]
Alicia has supreme init.
Alicia HP: 1227/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/11/7/9/5/8/5/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/16
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/8/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/2/7/4
> roll 1d20+14 Antenora
> roll 1d20+14 Sulia
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 23 > [d20=9]
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 30 > [d20=16]
> roll 1d20+24 balors
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 39 > [d20=15]
> roll 1d20+12 demons
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 26 > [d20=14]
> roll 1d20+30 ???
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 33 > [d20=3]
Init is Alicia (Supreme) > Balors (39) > ??? (33) > Marie (32) > Sulia (30) > Dust Demons (26) > Antenora (23)
Go.
So what's the specific positioning on all the bad stuff around here?
Sure. The balors are about 40ft down and 20ft away from Antenora and friends over there, the demons are behind them. Lathanader and his current demon problem are way up high in the sky and out of immediate range.
Slipping through compressed space to reach the rear of the balors, Alicia swings her sword out in a wide sweep through all of them and the demons further down before a surging crackle of lightning carries her back up towards Marie's cheerful illusory form and a wave of exhaustion passes over the balors and their mounts!
Free action space compress, free action five foot step, full attack, swift action quickened lightning leap back towards illusory Marie, swift action quick-cast waves of exhaustion.
[18:01] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled maximised ravaging touch, whirlwind attack
[18:01] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 125 > [d20=20]
[18:01] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled maximised ravaging touch, whirlwind attack crit check
[18:02] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 119 > [d20=14]
[18:02] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+50 SR on ravaging touch
[18:02] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 60 > [d20=10]
[18:03] <@Ebiris> roll 16d6+128+5d6+6d4 and 16 points ability drain to all stats (8 if the save was made). Save DC 38 fort. Assuming it critted.
[18:03] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 216 > [d6=1,5,6,2,2,6,2,1,1,1,2,2,5,5,5,5,5,6,6,2,2][d4=3,2,2,1,4,4]
[18:03] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4 and 8 points ability drain to all stats (4 if the save was made). Save DC 38 fort. If it didn't crit.
[18:03] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 120 > [d6=4,1,2,2,3,4,4,6,3,4,1,4,1][d4=4,2,4,4,1,2]
[18:04] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+48 SR for waves of exhaustion
[18:04] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 63 > [d20=15]
No save against exhaustion. -6 penalty to strength/dexterity.
Not rolling anything for the lightning leap, balors are usually immune to electricity.
Alicia HP: 1227/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/10/6/9/5/8/4/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/15
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/8/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/2/7/4
The balors can only turn to react before Alicia slices into them. It's a solid blow to them all, cutting deep in as a moment later you're back in front of Marie. Just in time for the wounded demons roar in fury, and raise their dreadful dust blades to the sky. A great tempest comes forth, dust filtered away, but still a tremendous windstorm that engulfs all of you.
> roll 1d20+35
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 45 > [d20=10]
Yet it still does nothing to all of you, unable to penetrate your defenses entirely. None of you are afflicted by those winds as the sun above shakes, while meanwhile the balors lower their blades, a great charge at you and Marie.
Reach? The balors may not be able to charge exhausted, but that doesn't slow down skeletal steeds.
30 feet.
Feel free to AoO.
Alicia gets 11 AoOs with her dex, so she'll hit 6 balors, 4 horses, and keep 1 AoO in reserve.
[19:20] <@Ebiris> roll 10#1d20+105 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled maximised ravaging touch
[19:20] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 119, 106, 124, 108, 112, 112, 107, 124, 123, 125 >
[19:21] <@Ebiris> roll 4#1d20+105 four of those were crit threats
[19:21] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 119, 112, 124, 112 >
[19:22] <@Ebiris> roll 4#16d6+128+5d6+6d4 and 16 points ability drain to all stats (8 if the save was made). Save DC 38 fort. For the crits.
[19:22] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 218, 207, 211, 232 >
[19:23] <@Ebiris> roll 6#8d6+64+5d6+6d4 and 8 points ability drain to all stats (4 if the save was made). Save DC 38 fort. For the non-crits.
[19:23] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 121, 113, 127, 125, 126, 116 >
It's the same spell as already cast so uses the same SR roll from my earlier post. Which was 60.
Balors are ravaged and shudder, bloodied and shriveling. The mounts are simply smashed apart, collapsing beneath most of them. It largely halts the advance, save for one, who comes down and brings its blade on Alicia.
> roll 1d20+66 (+3 ????, +1 ????, +10 ????, -8 Alicia)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 81 > [d20=15]
AC?
104
Alicia HP: 1227/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/10/6/9/5/8/4/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/15
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/8/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/2/7/4
Yet Alicia parries the sword with ease, far less fearsome than before. As she blocks and counters it back?
Init is Alicia (Supreme) > Balors (39) > ??? (33) > Marie (32) > Sulia (30) > Dust Demons (26) > Antenora (23)
Whatever ??? does isn't obvious. Marie.
Marie sticks with a tried and true formula. Missiles for everyone!
[20:05] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 sandalphon's amazing barrage, repeat/fell drain/twin/entangle
[20:05] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 33 > [d3=1]
[20:05] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 sandalphon's amazing barrage, repeat/fell drain/twin/entangle/quicken
[20:05] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 33 > [d3=1]
132 damage, 4 negative levels, and entangled for everything within 3700 feet of illusion Marie.
Alicia HP: 1227/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/10/6/9/5/8/4/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/15
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/8/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/0/7/4
Missiles for everyone indeed. They strike hard and true, peppering your foes with impunity. No fatal strikes, but you hit well indeed as...
That it for Marie?
That's it.
Init is Alicia (Supreme) > Balors (39) > ??? (33) > Marie (32) > Sulia (30) > Dust Demons (26) > Antenora (23)
Sulia holds her ground as the balors come, the charge stopped. It lets her cast uninterrupted, as a radiant storm of light rakes over the demons.
> roll 1d20+41 any SR
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 48 > [d20=7]
> roll 1d20+38
> roll 40d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 45 > [d20=7]
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 124 > [d6=5,2,1,3,3,1,2,6,4,1,3,6,2,2,5,5,5,2,3,3,6,1,2,2,3,3,6,2,6,3,2,4,2,2,1,1,5,5,1,3]
Great blasts of light rake the demons, a radiant storm of raw fury that bursts several of the minions that follow. All that comes in response is a great storm of dust and wind, one that loses half of it, resisted by your spell before the winds batter you harmlessly. At the same time the emerge, coming forth but not quite making it to you, advancing in a great, meandering horde. The closest few approach you and...
You can AoO if you want.
No AoO this time, saving it for nasty seeming spells.
> roll 1d20+87 (+4 charge, +4 fiends, +18 furious strike, +15 smite evil, +19 Marie, +3 luck, divine power, -36 PA)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 103 > [d20=16]
> roll 36*3
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 108 >
> roll 3d8+824+2d6+2d6+4d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 862 > [d8=5,6,6][d6=1,1,1,3,3,3,4,5]
Ow.
Antenora surges otu from behind her walls, a blur of gold, blue and white as she slams into the balor line that assails Alicia. One of the balors, half blinded by Sulia's magic, tries to block, but the Black Horn Spear slams into its chest and its world explodes outward, violently.
None of you can fail the save, so no point. Sulia evades and you and Antenora take half.
> roll 28d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 87 > [d6=3,3,5,4,5,1,5,2,1,1,2,1,2,4,3,2,6,1,3,6,2,5,4,3,3,1,5,4]
> roll 87/2
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 43 >
43 damage. Antenora will heal you up with divine succor for 110 points of healing.
In the aftermath of this there is one balor less and...
Go.
[spoiler]
Swapping bardsong to inspire heroics. +10 morale to saves, +10 dodge to AC for the party. The other songs continue to take effect for another five minutes because divine bard.
<Ebiris> Inspire greatness and inspire courage. +5 bonus d10 hd, +5 competence attack, +3 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage.
Divine Familiar benefits.
Counts as 36 hit dice for any effects that matter with those.
Hit points change to 379 if they're not already higher.
Base attack bonus changes to +36 if it's not already higher.
Base saves (before stats/feats/abilities) change to Fort +18, Ref +9, Will +18 if they're not already higher.
Gains Alicia's base skill ranks for any skills his aren't higher than. That's +39 to acrobatics, craft (landscaping), craft (painting), diplomacy, intimidate, fly, knowledge (arcana), knowledge (history), knowledge (nature), knowledge (religion), knowledge (planes), perception, perform (oratory), profession (general), sense motive, spellcraft, survival, and swim. And +16 to bluff.
Intelligence rises to 23 if it's not already higher.
Gains +18 to natural armour.
Gains improved evasion.
Gains spell resistance 41.
Can cast Limited Wish as a spell-like ability twice per day.
Antenora
HP: 850/900
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Courage 10ft (+4 morale vs fear), Divine 20ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 40/41 (enc) Divine Retribution 1/1 Smite Evil 12/13 Channel Energy 17/18 Lay On Hands 540/540 Remove Disease 11/11 (week), Spiritual Connection 3/3 Blinding Speed 25/25 Divine Blast 18/18
Spells Used: 1 opal protection, 1 heal
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL36), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes: Can always inflict nonlethal with attacks, spells, SLAs and abilities.
Smite Notes: +2 damage/paladin level on a charging smite. Each point of favored PA on charge is worth 9 points of damage, post charge multiplier (15 on crit).
Typical Charging Numbers: 36 for base smite damage, 72 for charging smite +2 per per level. So 108 bonus damage baseline. Raw attack plus smite is 1d8+145+2d6+2d6 (+4/+4d6 if fiendbane hits). Doesn't include other factors.
Remember everything triples and x5 on a crit when adding things.
Empress Sulia
HP: 716+200/770
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine (30ft)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+18 (+3 morale, +3 luck, +12 armor), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Channel Energy 15/16 Inspire Confidence 9/9 Inspire Nobility 6/6 Charity Domain 3/3 Nobility Domain 3/3 Suffering Domain 3/3, Divine Shield 13/14
Spells Used: 1 14th
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Epic Mage Armor (CL36). Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL37), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes:
Another lightning leap carries Alicia past the balors and into the midst of that demonic swarm before her sword sweeps out to hopefully finish them all off!
Not rolling the lightning leap since they're surely immune.
[17:50] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+105 blinding speed, 6th level arcane strike, channelled maximised/vivacious/enhanced combust, whirlwind attack
[17:50] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 111 > [d20=6]
[17:50] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+50 SR
[17:50] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 65 > [d20=15]
[17:50] <@Ebiris> roll 8d6+64+5d6+6d4+320
[17:50] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 450 > [d6=2,3,1,4,6,6,6,1,6,5,3,3,5][d4=1,3,3,2,2,4]
Alicia HP: 1244/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/8/5/9/5/8/4/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/15
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/8/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/0/7/4
In one wave of violence you thin out the wounded horde, a great swash torn asunder. Your size holds triumphant as demon and dust are rent away, torn apart by your blade.
Init is Alicia (Supreme) > Balors (39) > ??? (33) > Marie (32) > Sulia (30) > Antenora (23)
Anything else?
I'll let Marie's missiles finish off the balors.
[17:58] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 repeat spell from last round
[17:58] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 33 > [d3=1]
[17:58] <@Ebiris> roll 1d3+32 repeat spell from last round x2
[17:58] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 35 > [d3=3]
136 damage, 4 negative levels, and entangled.
> roll 56d6
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 196 > [56d6=196]
Sulia evades, Antenora and Alicia take half. HP after that?
1146/1244
Alicia HP: 1146/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/8/5/9/5/8/4/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/11/6/15
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/8/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/7/5/0/7/4
Blast after blast - and it's done. The demons are wiped out, the assault stopped cold at least for now. You're bruised but nothing more, as above the battle between sun and demon surely rages.
Free act for now.
[spoiler]
Swapping bardsong to inspire heroics. +10 morale to saves, +10 dodge to AC for the party. The other songs continue to take effect for another five minutes because divine bard.
<Ebiris> Inspire greatness and inspire courage. +5 bonus d10 hd, +5 competence attack, +3 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage.
Divine Familiar benefits.
Counts as 36 hit dice for any effects that matter with those.
Hit points change to 379 if they're not already higher.
Base attack bonus changes to +36 if it's not already higher.
Base saves (before stats/feats/abilities) change to Fort +18, Ref +9, Will +18 if they're not already higher.
Gains Alicia's base skill ranks for any skills his aren't higher than. That's +39 to acrobatics, craft (landscaping), craft (painting), diplomacy, intimidate, fly, knowledge (arcana), knowledge (history), knowledge (nature), knowledge (religion), knowledge (planes), perception, perform (oratory), profession (general), sense motive, spellcraft, survival, and swim. And +16 to bluff.
Intelligence rises to 23 if it's not already higher.
Gains +18 to natural armour.
Gains improved evasion.
Gains spell resistance 41.
Can cast Limited Wish as a spell-like ability twice per day.
Antenora
HP: 752/900
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil) Courage 10ft (+4 morale vs fear), Divine 20ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 40/41 (enc) Divine Retribution 1/1 Smite Evil 12/13 Channel Energy 17/18 Lay On Hands 540/540 Remove Disease 11/11 (week), Spiritual Connection 3/3 Blinding Speed 25/25 Divine Blast 18/18
Spells Used: 1 opal protection, 1 heal
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL36), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes: Can always inflict nonlethal with attacks, spells, SLAs and abilities.
Smite Notes: +2 damage/paladin level on a charging smite. Each point of favored PA on charge is worth 9 points of damage, post charge multiplier (15 on crit).
Typical Charging Numbers: 36 for base smite damage, 72 for charging smite +2 per per level. So 108 bonus damage baseline. Raw attack plus smite is 1d8+145+2d6+2d6 (+4/+4d6 if fiendbane hits). Doesn't include other factors.
Remember everything triples and x5 on a crit when adding things.
Empress Sulia
HP: 716+200/770
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine (30ft)
Bonuses: Attack+3 (+3 luck), Damage+0 AC+18 (+3 morale, +3 luck, +12 armor), Saves+6 (+3 morale, +3 luck), Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Channel Energy 15/16 Inspire Confidence 9/9 Inspire Nobility 6/6 Charity Domain 3/3 Nobility Domain 3/3 Suffering Domain 3/3, Divine Shield 13/14
Spells Used: 1 14th
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Epic Mage Armor (CL36). Many Moments of Prescience (CL38), Recitation (CL37), Mass Death Ward (CL36), Sublime Revelry(CL36), Opal Protection (CL38)
Notes:
"That might be the last organised resistance, lets focus on destroying the place now," Alicia says, before a shout weakens the structure further beneath her and then a true meteor swarm from Marie shatters through floor and walls!
Alicia HP: 1146/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/8/5/9/5/8/4/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/10/6/15
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/8/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/6/5/0/7/4
Gimme damage on those real quick.
[19:14] <@Ebiris> roll 15d6 shout
[19:14] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 64 > [d6=5,4,4,1,6,2,5,5,5,6,1,5,3,6,6]
[19:14] <@Ebiris> roll 15d6+15d6 big meteor
[19:14] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 93 > [d6=5,6,3,1,4,4,4,2,1,1,6,2,1,6,5,3,2,3,6,5,1,1,6,1,3,1,4,1,3,2]
[19:14] <@Ebiris> roll 6#5d6+6#5d6 small meteors
[19:14] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 19, 26, 19, 24, 23, 23 >
Alicia HP: 1146/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/8/5/9/5/8/4/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/10/6/15
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/8/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/6/5/0/7/4
Antenora and Sulia keep guard as you destroy. It doesn't take too much effort - the explosions did a lot, and chunks and hunks collapse from all the damage done, between the balors and this. It's crumbling before your eyes, the vile works within handled.
Marie animates some objects out of the debris just to grind things down a bit more while Alicia retrieves their captives from the initial incursion.
Our part is done, Lathander. We're departing now.
A sense of acknowledgement, little else.
He is busy after all.
Good enough. Marie lowers her dimensional block on the area at the same time as Alicia opens a gate, while Antenora and Sulia help chivvy their captives through to Sylica along with them, fleeing the scene.
Alicia HP: 1146/1244
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 39), extended nondetection (CL 39), greater heroism (CL 36), extended ray deflection (CL 39), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), greater foresight (CL 38), keen edge (CL 36 on sword), dance of the unicorn (CL 36), extended greater anticipate teleportation (CL 38), repelling shield (CL 38), freedom of movement (CL 36), greater visage of the deity (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), dance of the unicorn (CL 36)
Defences: AC 104, CMD 153, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (fire, cold, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 54), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +10 armour AC, +25 competence perception, +7 insight AC/ref, +40 str, -2 dex, +20 con, +2 int, +4 wis, +4 cha, +15 natural armour AC, -8 size AC, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Arcane sight, true seeing, 5 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +87
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/16/16/14/9/9/8/5/9/4/8/4/7/7/6/2
Duskblade spell slots: 6/22/22/23/10/6/15
Marie HP: 830+20/830
Active spells: Many moments of prescience (CL 38), extended mind blank (CL 36), extended nondetection (CL 36), greater heroism (CL 36), greater arcane sight (CL 36), epic mage armour (CL 36), sensual blessing (CL 36), repelling shield (CL 36), freedom of movement (CL 36), recitation (CL 36), true seeing (CL 36), bibliotheca arcana (CL 36), death ward (CL 36), sublime revelry (CL 36), opal protection (CL 38), superior invisibility (CL 41), project image (CL 41)
Defences: AC 108, CMD 117, spell resistance 51, energy immunity (electricity, fire, sonic, negative energy), status immunity (polymorph, petrification, disease, poison, stunning, sleep, paralysis, death effects, disintegration, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, mind-affecting, and fear), nondetection (DC 51), freedom of movement
Stat buffs/penalties: +4 morale skills, +25 competence perception, +9 shield AC, +3 luck AC/attack/saves, +15 insight knowledge, +3 morale AC, +5 bonus hd, +5 competence attack, +4 competence fort, +14 morale attack/damage, +10 morale saves, +10 dodge AC
Perceptions: Greater arcane sight, true seeing, 1 mile tremorsense/blindsight/scent perception +81
Sorcerer spell slots: 6/8/10/8/8/9/9/7/7/8/6/5/0/7/4
Sweet air fills your lungs as you return. It smells better, it's warmer, everything feels right.
Antenora exhales, "What an irritating battle," she remarks, "Is everyone well?"
Back to normal size now, Alicia sends their prisoners to Penance where they can be confined until such a time as they can be trusted to wander Creation freely without bringing harm to others.
"Quite well," she says to Antenora after that, remotely observing Dust and Lathander's battle with Demogorgon now if she's able. "I was surprised that it was full of so many balors, I was expecting more unique dust-aspected horrors."
"I liked," Marie begins as she appears on the opposite side of the group from her projected image who now vanishes, "It well enough. No one came close to bothering me."
Alicia also stops making Sulia her familiar now, the benefits fading along with their temporary empathic link.
"I did notice them using dust, but your spell countered it," Sulia remarks, "Perhaps Demogorgon expected enemy action somehow?"
"They might not have been its usual contingent," Alicia agrees. "It doesn't make up for our losses on Daun but at least it makes a difference somewhere."
"It's a consolation prize," Antenora agrees, "But a fine one."
"It lets Demogorgon know we won't roll over," Sulia concurs, "So a worthy effort."
By the way was I able to view the Lathander/Demogorgon clash?
You peer. Lathander wields sunlight to blast Demogorgon, which only seems to push him back. Black waters and fury batter back the dawn, the two locked in struggle - but you can tell. Lathander has begun to fall back, giving in to set up a retreat.
"It's been fun!" Lathander calls back, "But our time has run out and you couldn't even protect a brick down there." The sun deity grins ear to ear, "Try harder next time!"
"Lathander's done with his part," Alicia adds. "Though we'd better watch out for reprisals to come against Sylica or our other interests, it was still worth doing."
"Then until next time - I have a post battle to oversee," Empress Sulia agrees, "We lost on Daun, but we fight on."
"It was one battle, not the war," Alicia agrees positively, seeing her off.
It was a very important battle, though.
Okay, this is winding down. Any immediate todos?
We're distressingly clear on immediate todos.
Indeed, something to be fixed.
Alicia, I've just found word that Malcanthet's been sighted in Mechanus.
As you hear that, you work on other matters and affairs. Including such a prayer as, "Let them not shock me, let them not shock me!" from Clara, as she flees from a rush of a few dozen fiend tainted shocker lizards, down mountainous slopes.
That's unusual. Any more information or context?
As for Clara she is indeed in a rather distressingly dangerous situation. Shocker lizards are... shockingly, fast for their size, and tenacious too. She looks over the situation she's in to see if there's any potential help she can rely on or else a subtle way to slow the lizards down like with a rockslide or something.
No, but I wouldn't expect her to go there. I'm certain she broke rules with what Violet did to her.
You could provoke a rock slide, certainly. There's plenty of loose stone about as she flees from them.
Just because that many shocker lizards against one person is a death sentence (unless she had energy resistance but if she did she wouldn't be running), Alicia helps Clara out just this once. A rock she runs over starts teetering dangerously with a little tiny divine nudge, and when the shocker lizards reach it it begins rolling downhill and picking up more rocks, not a massive rockslide but one that takes advantage of the small stature of shocker lizards to destabilise or carry them along.
Clara gets a subtle hint of 'instinct' to change the angle of her run right before the rockslide starts so that she won't end up in its way. When she prays later on today she'll be chastised a little to be more careful and not get into situations like this again.
Antenora, she's a demon lord. Her every breath must be in violation of a great many of Mechanus's rules. But I doubt they know the specifics of what Violet did for her, it's not as if we told them. Would you like to visit Mechanus and investigate what she was doing there?
Yes, exactly and yet she walks in like she owns it. An investigation would only be prudent, even if I merely ask someone I know a few discreet questions.
> roll 1d100 low is good
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 85 > [d100=85]
Clara listens to her instincts as the rockslide gets going - and her ankle twists at the wrong time, a cry as she tumbles to the side. Upside? She misses all of it and the lizards, who go tumbling down in an understandable moment of deific intervention, since shocker lizards. Downside? She tumbles down around 50ft, bruised and bloodied when she finally comes to a stop by slamming her side into a pine tree.
Did she walk in like she owns it? Honestly Alicia has so little information or context here to know what happened at all.
You should investigate and learn more, I don't want to be caught flat-footed by her maneuverings but do remember if she was seen in Mechanus it's because she wanted to be seen.
As for Clara? Well, that looked like it smarted but she's a paladin, she can heal herself. It's still a lot gentler than the shocker lizards would've been if they got a good zap on her!
I'll have word shortly, my source owes me a favor.
Well good!
Hopefully that word will be educational and Clara will get herself to safety.
Within 20 minutes, Antenora appears next to you, "It was quick," she concurs.
"Hello Antenora," she says aloud. "What did you find out?"
"She was there by appointment to see a kolyarut to negotiate the release of a soul bound to her," Antenora begins, "Mundane but also not the whole truth." She stands at your side, "She also had a discussion with an unknown quarut and asked about two beyalhut titans she believes are captured in the Abyss."
Planes on beyalhut titans in general, and a pair in the abyss in particular?
[18:41] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+108 divine insight, guidance of avatar, improvisation
[18:41] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 120 > [d20=12]
Beyalhuts, also known as Mechanus bruisers, are powerful inevitables build to track down chaotic creatures that flout the laws of Creation. Unlike other inevitables, they are not dedicated to a single task or realm of responsibility. They assist other inevitables in dealing with threats and accrue experience in many different matters. They are of dim intelligence but eager to preform their duties at the command of another inevitable.
Beyalhut Titans are the exemplars of beyalhuts, the best of the best. They're blunt instruments when nothing else will work against chaos. You wouldn't want to face one if you were a chaotic creature, they can tear apart almost anything. Many also learn the same tricks Gathgorian has as a prosecutor against chaos.
As for two of them in the Abyss? It's not uncommon. Usually they're used well enough to get out just fine, but sometimes it doesn't work out for them. You can think of over a dozen legends off the top of your head that might be a pair of those and could fit, you'd need more info. It's not like Mechanus is lazy in fighting chaos.
"Do you know who they're captured by?" Alicia asks. Not even Malcanthet could charm those, right?
"No, but I know where," Antenora smiles just a little bit. "Layer 612."
[19:08] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+73 improvisation
[19:08] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 92 > [d20=19]
Planes on that layer.
612 is known as Ascension. Not for any virtue, but because it's a series of cascading waterfalls. Almost no flat land, only toxic, poisonous water that births abominations throughout. It's said that somewhere beneath the waters a hidden palace resides to an unspeakable demon lord.
Notable is the extremely heavy gravity, which makes flight almost impossible, and the fact that the air is very thin. Breathing in general is a problem on that plane unless you can breathe water and ignore the poison in it.
"Not a particularly famous layer," Alicia says. "What else do you know, then?"
Does this narrow down any of the results on the previous check for a pair of robots lost in that particular layer?
It does. You recall an old fable, of inevitables 'lost amid the endless waterfalls'. A story of them being sunken down in the waters and lost forever, a vague and old tale indeed. It's said that the gravity was too much for them.
"I'm pretty sure Malcanthet wants to barter them for a favor," Antenora goes on, "As to what the favor is I'm not sure - it may have to do with that quarut somehow."
"Hmm. It's not a lot to go on, but the inference then is that she's either taken control there herself or is owed a favour by the local demon lord," Alicia surmises. "There's a lot she could do with a favour from Mechanus, I'm certain, although I don't think even two of those titans are worth the prize Primus holds, and she'd have to go a lot higher than just a quarut to even start on that."
"I doubt she even knows," Antenora agrees, "That part is purely coincidental, she has another goal. Something baser, no doubt."
"I hope so," Alicia says, having her own priorities and thus being naturally most concerned about covering that angle. "Lets spread the word to our allies? The Seldarine are going after her fairly hard right now so they might find an angle of their own in case it comes up on their end."
"I'll see to it," Antenora vows, "Unless, of course, we want to take matters into our own hands."
Alicia shakes her head. "This is your project Antenora, keep me updated but I'm sure you can see it through just fine."
Ultimately it's just nice to know, but not the sort of provocation that would make her actively move against Malcanthet.
After you deal with that?
"Dear," Syala comes over, "We have various diplomatic invitations. We have the normal invites to Brightwater - Sulia and Sharess, two separate opportunities. We have an invitation to the Seldarine to discuss Malcanthet, though that's open to any of us. We also have one from Mystra, it looks routine enough that she sent it by messenger. But that's not all."
Syala holds up an envelope, a beautiful and pristine white. It's flawless, the writing on it perfect as it reads, 'To Sylica.' After a moment, "It's from Maladomini."
"Well, it's been some time since we heard from Beezlebub," Alicia says neutrally, leaning towards Syala and focusing on that one. "What does it say?"
Syala opens it.
"Residents of Sylica:
I invite you to the house of Plendus of the Mercane Consortium to discuss matters of mutual interest. We have shared enemies and I have determined it is in our best interests to cooperate on this matter."
"Residents?" Alicia repeats in a perturbed tone.
Planes take 10 for 65 on house of Plendus.
"...interesting word choice," Syala says at last, a hand on her hip. "That's a very open ended invitation."
Plendus is a minor mercane house in the Consortium. They mostly deal in ceramics and precious materials, the latter of which is due to their acquisition (accidental) of interests in various mines.
OOC I assumed Plendus was an obvious intermediary so I just rolled a basic check to get the basic details. Since that doesn't scan with the info here and therefore it must be a front of deeper meaning can I redo the check with buffs? That'd be divine insight/guidance of avatar/improvisation/greater heroism taking 10 for 122.
There's no whispers of diabolical entanglement in particular - but like any mercane, they try and make money and have been known to be intermediaries. You know they've done it for a fair bit of Earth in minor matters, including the dao and the rare times someone like Ogremoch cares to deal with such things.
It doesn't quite fit them to go in this far, but you suppose it's possible a Lord of the Nine putting on pressure could force them.
"Also interesting choice of intermediary," Alicia adds. "But it's not an offer we can ignore. Lets send a reply so we can arrange a time to meet? As for the others - I'd like to send Marie to meet the Seldarine. It'd be a good contact for her," she taps the top of one of her ears meaningfully. "Did Mystra, Sulia, and Sharess give more details in their missives?"
"Mystra's is routine," Syala nods to your suggestion of Marie. "That will do her good, since Antenora's busy with Malcanthet now. Sulia's is one half tactical and one half fun, and Sharess's is pure pleasure. You know how Rapture is."
Routine or not Mystra always deserves her time. "We'll make time for all of them and schedule around it," Alicia says, creating a matching letter to go back to Malodomini accepting the request for a meeting and asking for a specific time and location. "What sort of messenger delivered that anyway?" she indicates the original letter.
"A mercane," Syala says, "Who else? Discreet, unremarkable and payable."
"I'd rather not use a mercane myself," Alicia says, twirling the letter in her hand. "I'm sure most are fine but institutional rot buries itself deep. I'll just handle it directly."
And so she reaches her divine voice out across the planes towards the Lord of the Seventh. I received your missive and we are prepared to meet at the House of Plendus at a time of your choosing.
A shimmer-ripple in the air.
Perfect. We will meet 49 hours from now.
Can I tell what caused that ripple with my divine senses?
This is my divine realm and it's had a lot of work done but he built the original demiplane so if there's some kind of backdoor access he has to mess with the place is this a giveaway?
No, you just think that's a particular quality of how the Lord of the Seventh communicates in this way. No signs of it being anything more.
"Forty eight hours, fifty nine minutes, and fifty two seconds," Alicia says. "You know how he is, lets be precisely on time for this."
Luckily magic does make precise timekeeping fairly simple even without the sort of cogs and gears Antenora is so fond of.
"Do you want to fit in any others in the meantime?" Syala asks.
"Is there a timetable on the others?" she asks. Two days is long enough to fit a lot in, so if it won't inconvenience anyone they easily could clear the lot.
"Nothing urgent," Syala says, "They're all routine."
I'm sure we can just do them offscreen unless something exciting happens or profound secrets are shared?
Sure, pretty much, most of them are just that unless you have something to do there.
Assuming not, how are you going to approach this meeting?
We'll have just Alicia and Syala go on this one. Assuming my knowledge check earlier actually told me where the house of Plendus specifically is we'll gate over there a minute before 'exactly 49 hours after I spoke to Beezlebub' and spend a minute getting inside so we reach the meeting room precisely on time.
You appear on well tended grounds. Perfectly trimmed grass is beneath your feet, as a beautiful palace is ahead of you. You appear just before it on an engraved plaza, one of which that shows the sun rising over a cave entrance. An elf is there, a male with strong features and sandy blonde hair. He bows, "Esteemed guests," he says, "Please follow me."
Alicia is armoured as she usually is but not visibly armed. She nods silently to the elf and follows him inside, her enhanced senses taking in their surroundings and what she can make out of the cave's interior.
What plane are we on, btw?
The Consortium is on a special demiplane.
It's a lovely place - refined and tasteful. Decorated without being obscene, a sense of style rather than mere wealth. Servants stay well out of sight, and mercane politely stay well away. It's like you're being given plenty of space. You don't see the Lord of the Seventh as you're lead to a room with a heavy lead door. It's decorated but not painted, no hiding what it is.
"The Auntellum Study is renowned for its security and privacy," The elf states, stepping aside and ready to open the door. "No one, from the shores of Celestia to the depths of the Abyss, will be able to look in on this meeting."
"I see," Alicia says, although she'll be relying far more on her own habitual defences against scrying and she trusts those over anything else. Still, she looks to see what they're working with here while the elf opens the door for them.
Arcane sight is up.
CL check. They at least try.
[17:00] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+41
[17:00] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 48 > [d20=7]
The magic's pretty good, actually. A mortal wizard probably fails completely. As it is, you can sense the faintest wisps of protective abjurations, 99% blocked by lead, but only a few bare signs get through.
She doesn't criticise them or anything because she wasn't relying on it anyway. Still a decent effort by most standards.
"Open the door?" she asks, just a few seconds left to hit precise timing for this meeting.
The door opens at precisely the right moment. Within strides a familiar figure. The beautiful, seemingly perfect visage of the Lord of the Seventh is seen as he walks in. He moves with a perfect grace that seems unearthly, with a purpose that every step speaks of.
Within, amid gentle decorations, is a series of comfortable chairs in a circle. No table, just a sitting circle for quiet, intimate discussions.
"Beelzebub," Alicia greets him, walking towards the chairs. No need to stand on ceremony here as far as she's concerned.
Syala enters as well, "It's been some time," she remarks.
"Ladies," The Lord of the Seventh sits opposite both of you, a knowing and confident smile on his face. "I hear your realm grows with prosperity."
She was going to address this at the end but since he's giving an opening. "We do more than simply live there as residents," she says coolly as she seats herself.
The subtle buzz of his voice is joined by the perfect passion of it, enthralling love and glory in every word. Yet as you have grown, you can hear the faintest sound of metal clanging beneath it. As you do, you notice a robed, hooded creature of no notices hides in the Lord of the Seventh's shadow, writing away all the while. Surgat, you recall from your previous encounter.
"Antenora. Latha. Jessica. Marie. Six in total now - an unfortunate number." The Lord of the Seventh observes quietly. "But I doubt you and yours would stop at only six."
"I've never much cared for numerology," Alicia says freely, not protesting Surgat's presence. "Six is sufficient for the moment, but the future remains to be seen... however that's not why we're here. Your message spoke of shared enemies to cooperate against?"
"Do tell," Syala agrees.
"One of the Shadow Twelve was discovered and captured by my servants," The Lord of the Seventh continues. "The information taken from him is an assault on us both."
"You have my attention," Alicia says, this being good news of a sort. "Is he a proxy as well?" she asks.
"No," The Lord of the Seventh says, as he passes over a purple crystal to your hand. "Look yourself."
Alicia accepts the crystal and...
Take 10 for spellcraft 84 with divine insight so I can ID its use method and ensure it's safe before using it. Probably just have to look at it, but y'know. Actually it might be a soul trap gem with the dude inside now I think of it.
Focus on it and it works. It's also safe from all appearances, nothing tricksy or fancy here you can detect. It's also not a soul gem, it merely holds memories.
Alicia thus focuses!
Diagrams. Arcane drawings. Images.
Images of Liberton, of the Wychwoods, of the Opal Mountain. Complexities and insights of vast understanding of divine realms - this cannot be a mortal's work. No. A deity had a hand in this, so great is the comprehension. As you peruse them, you see a pattern. A connection, a sympathetic working. An effort to connect the old master with the new masters.
A natural explosion of energies, as evil and good clash.
The one mercy is that your arcane and planar lore tells you this was a doomed effort. It is not possible, not at least from what is here.
"This scheme is foolishness as it stands now. Imperfect meanderings of a defective mind, but one given far too much information. That this fool was found investigating Maladomini is his mistake, one I will correct for him." The Lord of the Seventh continues.
Syala's silent, "I see why you contacted us," she says at last, to break the silence of studying the crystal. "In other words, don't give a fool a chance to get lucky and do something we think is impossible. A fool's mission, unless Shar knows something we don't."
"I wouldn't put it past her," Alicia concedes, handing the crystal back after she and Syala have studied its contents. "Whether there's a method she has to make this work, or else a provocation to lure us into something. The fact that this member of the shadow twelve was not entrusted with a spark of her divinity does suggest he was made expendable for the effort."
Also it suggests their counter-intelligence efforts aren't up to snuff that someone of hostile intent was able to gather so much information right under their noses.
"Precisely." The Lord of the Seventh agrees, the faint buzzing sound around him like a gentle drone to his words. It almost lulls you - almost. "This member will not be a concern any further."
Alicia stays sharp and focused. Shared enemies or not she's sitting within striking distance of an immensely powerful evil right now after all.
"Were you able to extract meaningful information from him as to the origin of the scheme and its timescale?" she asks. "Incidentally, which one was it?" Dragodan gave a summary of all the others it would be worth noting what skillset has been lost from Shar's cause now.
Syala tenses as at the same time, "Penae," Is the Lord of the Seventh's answer, as the clang of metal is heard as well as that perfect voice, almost like a gorgeous song.
Penae was identified as 'she' by Dragodan, and Beezlebub earlier identified his captive as 'him'. Checking in case this is DM oversight before I call him out.
That's intentional, yes. Call out away.
"Isn't that a woman?" Alicia asks. "Dragodan described her after we captured him."
Oh, now you get a look of open interest. "Tell me more," The Lord of the Seventh commands, "This sound as if another secret and game Shar so foolishly plays."
She looks back at him as if to gauge whether she's being toyed with or not. "She was identified as the Dark Speaker of Shar. One who commands the dark speech with Shar's own insight," she's willing to hand out information like this freely, even to a devil.
Give me Sense Motive.
[18:02] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+93 divine insight, improvisation
[18:03] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 104 > [d20=11]
You don't detect any duplicity. For whatever that's worth when dealing with such a being, anyway.
"Ah. Bait." The Lord of the Seventh says, "Of course. How tiresome."
"So either Dragodan wasn't telling the truth, or your captive is a fake?" Alicia asks. "Or Penae wears multiple faces and Dragodan only ever saw the female one."
It reminds her a bit of Violet's scheme with the fake Robeaux, but if Shar was doing that why get something as basic as the dupe's gender wrong?
"There's the classic point that we're missing some piece of it," Syala says, then, "Did you bring Penae along? We could get to the bottom of this now."
Beezlebub is silent at that, "Yes, that would be perfect," he agrees, a snap of his fingers as Surgat steps back and is gone. "Momentarily."
Alicia silently waits. This isn't a time for small talk.
Mere moments later the door opens again. Surgat leads a figure alone. He is tall and wears a simple cloth shift. His brown hair and eyes are joined by a beard of light brown, his features blank. He merely kneels when he sees the Lord of the Seventh, yet now says not a word. He is a strong man from the looks of it, the signs of muscle and a warrior's build glimpsed.
"Good," The Lord of the Seventh complements, "This is Penae."
Surgat bows and returns to the shadow of the Lord of the Seventh.
Any magic on him?
Yes. He suffers under a curse that puts all of his mental ability scores at 7 and a powerful anti scrying ward. Not hidden, but of vast power.
"Are you familiar with the dark speech, Penae?" Alicia asks the considerably mentally reduced figure, it not being hard to see how Beezlebub has dominated him after cursing him to such a degree.
Honestly it's less disturbing than what they did to make Dragodan fall in love with Marie.
"Yes." The answer comes immediately, no resistance.
"How familiar?" Alicia presses, because it's like that.
"Very familiar," Is the answer, no resistance, just a simple reply.
He's not very verbose. "Would you say that you command the Dark Speech? Who do you know that commands it better?" she asks to dig out more detail.
"Yes. Shar." Is the answer.
"More," The Lord of the Seventh Commands in a word.
"Yes, I do. I have been trained in it. I have learned from Shar herself and her mastery is beyond peer."
Well that tracks with Dragodan hyping up Penae. "Do you habitually change your gender when dealing with the Shadow Twelve?"
"Yes. I do not allow them to see a shadow fully," Is his answer.
So little trust. "Well, that answers that mystery," she says, looking at Beezlebub.
There's other things she could ask Penae but it would only be a rehash of Dragodan and she doesn't want to interrogate someone else's captive right in front of him unless invited.
"Surgat," The Lord of the Seventh says kindly, "Record the names of those who handled the first interrogation."
The scribble of quill on paper is as heavy as a cell door's slam.
"That does leave the question of why Penae was stripped the honour of acting as Shar's proxy," Alicia brings them back to an earlier point.
"So many questions," The Lord of the Seventh concurs, "It brings to mind the question if she wished Penae to be captured. It would be a remarkably inferior, imperfect scheme, even for her standards."
"Well what does Penae have to say about it?" Alicia asks. Of course Shar could have easily spun him any kind of tale for him to regurgitate later since the whole point is he's disposable and expected to end up in this situation, but it still provides context.
"Speak," The Lord of the Seventh commands, those perfect words chipped and cracked to your ear.
"I have nothing to add, for no such thing was said to me," Penae explains.
"That's it? You were stripped of your position with no explanation? When?" Alicia presses on that, annoyed at having to take part in a joint interrogation with a devil.
A tap by the Lord of the Seventh on Penae's head. She immediately stiffens and comes to attention. It's barely a touch, a mere moment of his finger against her flesh.
"Lady Shar decided I would work best without her direct blessing on this matter," she says at last. "Her word is beyond questioning."
"Well it's clear she expected to lose Penae over this. The only question is what she expected to gain by the trade," Alicia concludes. "The scheme on the surface was a fool's errand."
"Layers and layers," Syala seconds, drumming her fingers on her bare knee. "A distraction, it has to be. From what I don't know, but I can't puzzle out anything that makes sense otherwise. Can you, Alicia?"
"Perhaps she wanted to provoke this very meeting?" Alicia speculates. "I don't think Penae's physical presence here is beneficial, at any rate."
"Surgat," The Lord of the Seventh says pleasantly, and a moment later but servant and Penae are gone out the door.
"Perhaps our mercane hosts are not as discreet as we assumed," Is his speculation, "But I think that regardless, our purposes here have reached an end today."
"If we're being distracted," Syala agrees, "Best that we stop being distracted."
"At any rate, thank you for keeping us informed," Alicia says, rising. "Should we hear of any further Sharran plots aimed towards Malodomini we will be sure to return the favour." Alicia's just that sort of scrupulously fair type, even with a devil.
An amused smile is your answer as both sides part.
Once you're out of that room?
Or, and not worth saying because I think we all understand, was that Penae somehow offended Shar and this was essentially a suicide mission. I can't make that make a lot of sense, either.
Alicia walks out of the mansion in step with Syala and gates them back to Sylica once outside.
Shar is not the type to pass on handing out her own personal punishment if that was the case.
Unless this is a mind game, it has to be a distraction. I've already checked with my avatar, nothing unusual's going on at home.
And indeed they're home now, gate closed behind them, high up in Sylica's sky. "There's little point speculating, we just don't have the perspective to know what Shar's thinking. All we can really do is maintain our guard."
"Well, at least one of the Shadow Twelve is dealt with," Syala agrees, "Just don't let the sacrifice of a pawn capture a queen."
"Lets not," Alicia agrees.
Going to do anything in reaction to this?
Also give me a d100.
[19:47] <@Ebiris> roll 1d100
[19:47] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 100 > [d100=100]
Nothing I can really do with the information, no.
You begin to go before suddenly -
Come to me, Alicia, quickly!
Alicia suddenly straightens and casts a gate to...
Does god-text have extra significant information in it that gives location metadata? If so then that's where the gate goes to, otherwise just aiming for the Sylica embassy in Dweomerheart.
No, but it's moot here.
The moment your portal to Dweomerheart opens, it twists and glows a deep, almost bloody purple. You know enough to know Mystra's will has personally diverted this portal.
Dweomerheart, but anyway.
"Come on!" Alicia says abruptly to Syala, hurrying through.
"Wh-" Syala manages as you tumble through. A room. A great, looming library. You've been here before but you hardly have time to reflect. For Mystra lies on the ground here, holding her shoulder. Blood, the color of silver fire and sunsets, leaks from in between her fingers. In each droplet you can sense a thousand spells, a microcosm of magic itself. Her face is a rictus of pain, deep in concentration.
Azuth stands over her, chanting a dreadful and powerful spell, one that seems to shake everything nearby. His long white hair flies back in an unseen wind.
Together, Velsharoon and Savras form a perimeter around this, no words as a dozen radiant barriers surround all of them, to keep any other at bay. They are stone silent, deeply focused.
"A...Alicia..." Mystra manages, voice weak. Scared. Hurt. "Help."
"What happened?" Alicia asks, hurrying towards Mystra, barely sparing attention for the other deities present.
Mystra drops her hand. Buried in her shoulder is...nothing. A shard of absolute nothing, a rough and jagged thing. Like a hole in everything, a hole in reality, plunged into Mystra's shoulder.
"It...it came through..." Mystra manages, a breath. Azuth chant as he taps the shard, yet nothing happens, only getting him to redouble his chant. "It came through a spell, I...underestimated her. I saw her a moment, I felt her hate, I felt her steal some of my blood. I...I may be able to counter it if I focus all my power, but to do so would disrupt the Weave across Creation. My focus is on not allowing it to disrupt the Weave, but I can't stop it like that."
"A paradox of choice," Azuth declares grimly, "Let Creation be devastated, let perhaps Ao notice such a dereliction of duty. Then endure it and slowly become undone while you protect the Weave until it too collapses. Neither choice is palatable."
Quietly, a whisper in your minds, 'Then we must find a third option,' Savras declares.
"Can we do it?" Alicia asks tersely, a glance at the other deities of magic present. "I can bring Marie along as well, together can we sustain the weave in your stead long enough?"
As she speaks Marie indeed comes through the still open gate, hurrying over and looking tense.
"It may be possible, but...should one of you falter, you would be subject to unimaginable harm. It may even destroy you, so great is the power of the full Weave." Mystra warns.
"Fool," Velsharoon sneers, his dead face gazing on at Mystra, "You speak as if we would fail at such a simple task."
"Necessity makes heroes of us all," Azuth agrees, "Should the worst happen, I have always known that I may one day die to protect the Weave."
"I'll watch over you," Syala offers, "In case Shar isn't done yet."
Alicia gives Syala a brisk nod before she focuses on Mystra. "We've claimed the mantle of deities of magic. We'll have to earn it, let us bear the burden so you can do what you must. Trust us."
Marie steps forward and nods. "Maybe we can't do it as easily as you can, but we'll do what we have to, for as long as you need us."
"Come," Mystra invites as her blood flows from the wound, "Brace yourselves."
Alicia and Marie both stand before Mystra, bracing. Marie's hand reaches out and finds Alicia's, giving it a squeeze.
They got pulled into this at the end of things and are missing a lot of details over what happened, but Mystra needs help and they'll give it.
A moment and magic.
Everything.
A flood of a trillion spells. A hundred quadrillion incantations. Countless magics being wrought. A weight like an entire universe on your shoulders, repeating again and again and again and again and again and again and again. Again. Endless repetitions. Every speck of magic, every whirling and devastating second.
Give me Constitution and Charisma checks, you two. Also give me Concentration checks.
[18:40] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+20+18 con Alicia, improvisation and good hope
[18:40] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 55 > [d20=17]
[18:40] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+23+18 cha Alicia, improvisation and good hope
[18:40] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 48 > [d20=7]
[18:41] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+57+15 concentration Alicia, divine insight and greater heroism
[18:41] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 90 > [d20=18]
[18:42] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+15+18 con Marie, improvisation and good hope
[18:42] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 36 > [d20=3]
[18:42] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+18+18 cha Marie, improvisation and good hope
[18:42] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 37 > [d20=1]
[18:42] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+55+15 concentration Marie, divine insight and greater heroism
[18:42] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 77 > [d20=7]
Alicia reels. Her senses are overwhelmed, expanding by the second and yet more and more and more yet comes. She struggles to keep up in that one terrible moment and somehow does so, enough to leave her mind nearly blank, screaming in pain - but intact.
Marie reels. It is the same for her, a devastating assault on her mind - and inside of her, something... - !
Fortitude save, Marie.
[18:53] <@Ebiris> roll 1d20+55+25 Marie fort, greater heroism, moment of prescience
[18:53] <Penuche> Ebiris invokes Penuche's magic: < 87 > [d20=7]
Marie collapses. Her mind is a red agony - she's dimly aware of Savras on the ground besides her. Yet Alicia stands as the sensation is gone.
Mystra gasps and rubs her shoulder, the wound and the nothingness gone. A moment later Velsharoon collapses to a knee, Azuth leaning heavily on a staff he pulled from nowhere.
Marie whimpers on the ground, not looking particularly divine.
"Marie... Savras? Are you alright?" Alicia asks after the two of them once the experience of supporting the weave fades, crouching over them and taking Marie's hand, feeling her spasm fitfully at the contact.
Syala is there as well, a gentle pulse of healing magic through Marie.
It mildly soothes the pain, perhaps.
Mystra is before Marie and Savras, a hand on each as she kneels. Slowly the pain recedes for Marie, letting her mind be free of it.
"I..will live," Savras declares as he sits up, "Mystra?"
"I am well now," Mystra declares, "I will need time to rest, but I am well."
"Hah," With a bony, rasping chuckle Velsharoon manages to stand. "That rancid bitch dares to strike us?"
"What happened? Was Shar actually in Elysium?" Alicia asks, helping Marie up as she stands a bit woozily and leans on Alicia.
"I'm okay now," she manages, before looking entirely glamorous and put together and divine. Unless one can see past her illusions of course, in which case she looks kind of strung out. Insect related fallen angels with image problems aren't the only ones who can use that trick!
"Not directly," Mystra explains as she stands, then sits back on a cushioned throne that appears from nowhere. She rests a few moments before, "She projected herself through a spell. I did not think even Shar could manage such a feat, but she surprised me. A mistake I will not make again and not allow to come to pass again."
"That can be done?" Savras murmurs quietly.
"The theory is sound. The Weave is everywhere," Azuth replies, standing upright now. "In a sense we are all connected to it, and a connection need not only be one way. There are many and myriad safeguards to prevent this, but it is proven that it is not impossible, at least for powerful god with stealth, skill and fortune, as well as that weapon she used against Mystra. It reminded me of the Blade of Endings that the Aurora recovered. Was it the same?"
"No, it was more. I have not seen something as such before, but it would be within Shar's domain of oblivion." Mystra concedes. She rests heavily back on the throne, eyes closed. "It was theft and assassination. It was an open challenge against us and magic itself."
"It happened while I was meeting with Beezlebub about a plot Shar had against Malodomini and Sylica, a fruitless plot but one she discarded one of her Dark Twelve to carry out. Perhaps that was an element of distraction, to keep us busy with that?" she smiles wryly, "Fortunately I didn't have the patience to sit and speculate for hours about her machinations so I cut the meeting short, I received your word just as soon as we returned to Sylica."
"What did she steal then, if it was a theft?" Marie asks, focusing on that since at least the assassination angle has been beaten.
"My blood," Mystra answers, simply.
"There's no end to the mischief she could do with that, is there?" Alicia asks grimly. "We can't let this go unanswered."
"Far too much," Mystra concurs, "But I must rest first. Azuth, see to it and Dweomerheart's defenses."
"It will be done," Azuth agrees. "Savras, see to the future. Velsharoon, see to the defenses as well."
Both do not argue and in an instant are gone. Once they are, "Alicia, Marie..." Mystra pauses, "I'm proud of you. Both of you. You've grown so far."
"Not far enough to stop something like this from happening, but we're working on it," Alicia says.
"What was the spell Shar used? Like a projected image she could control even across planar boundaries?" Marie asks, since she's been getting a lot of recent use from that spell so such a version of it would be... well, really good. So good it would be impossible to defend against.
Mystra rests, silent a moment before she replies. "A disintegrate spell," Mystra replies, "I believe she imbued a tiny bit of herself, a calculated gamble, and used to that to empower the spell."
"Rather like a proxy spark?" Azuth questions.
"Yes," Mystra agrees.
"But it didn't disintegrate it though, did it? It took your blood back to where she was?" Alicia asks.
"That's even worse, she can just keep doing that can't she? It's not like it'd be hard for Shar to rebuild herself from the cost of using that magic," Marie frets over the fact that Shar can now straight up disintegrate anyone at any time or place with no way to defend against it.
"But maybe we can stop it? If there's some kind of tell as the magic manifests but before it strikes, might it be possible to... snip it off? And steal the essence expended?" Alicia speculates over a countermeasure. "Was there dimensional warding in place when you were struck, Mystra?" That at least might offer a way to simply prevent attack at the very least.
"No," Mystra answers to the last first, "You're correct, Alicia, and I'm taking precautions to stop it again." She offers her hand out, "Take my hand, I will show you the spell."
Alicia reaches out to take Mystra's hand in her own, giving it a comforting squeeze and smiling at her.
You see the spell.
In the first moment you see nothing wrong at all. It's just a spell. A disintegration, nothing more - but your gaze is taken within. Like a tumor within a body, you see a deeper rot within. A tiny shard of evil, a shard of Shar. As if the entire spell is nothing more than a vessel for this, carefullly crafted. The work is incredible, enough to fool all but the best.
You're lucky you're one of the best.
As you do, Mystra gives Marie a look, "Marie," she chides ever so gently, offering her other hand out. "Azuth is already familiar with the concept and I have two hands."
Marie wasn't invited and only one hand was offered out! "Thank you Mystra," she says meekly, taking the other.
Alicia of course had thought Mystra was sharing the counter-spell she'd devised to stop Shar doing this so easily again, but she'll take the information she's given. "Disintegration doesn't even normally work on deities," she comments. So what does that disintegrate spell do? Is it just there for flavour or does it serve any purpose to what that shard of Shar actually does?
It's essentially flavor, a false wrapping for the bit of Shar. Thematic flavor at least.
Then it blossoms in your mind as you watch - an array of counter spells and rituals. Purifications, woven nets of spell energy.
How was it aimed though? Was there a scrying component? Alicia puzzles over that before studying the counters Mystra is offering. With how her magic works it won't be as easy as just preparing it from a spellbook but she can absorb it over time enough to be able to replicate it.
Hopefully.
You can see how you'd develop it and various ways you could manifest it. Afterwards Mystra rests back, "I need to rest now," she declares, "Master this magic and spread it to all our allies - or even those who Shar opposes that are not intolerable. I do not think...it can be used against others easily, but prudence is wise. Marielle, would you watch over me while I rest, so that none can take advantage of my moments of weakness?""
"I'll watch over you," Marie promises, several other copies of her appearing around the room while the real Marie vanishes.
"I'll spread it around, we'll worry about counterstrikes later then," Alicia agrees. "Stay safe, both of you. Come on Syala."
She opens another gate to leave, after which Marie dimensionally interdicts the area before asking, "Do you want me to sing for you?"
Mystra smiles faintly, "Please, Mariel-Marie." She corrects herself, "Let me hear you sing."
The real Marie and all of her illusions smile as well before she launches into song, a whimsical tune about a hard-working but unlucky mundane every-girl who keeps trying her best, certain that her luck will turn around.
It's silly and not really meaningful like the kind of songs she breaks out when she's trying to fight back against Shar's song, but everyone can appreciate a bit of silliness now and then, even Mystra.
Inspire greatness tacked on because why not, it'll make her feel better.
Like this Mystra rests under your song, revitalized.
Meanwhile Syala returns with you to Sylica. "Damn it," she hisses once through, "Of course it was a distraction. Thank Sharess you didn't bring Antenora to that meeting, or you'd never have gotten there in time."
"Don't tell her that, but you're probably right," Alicia agrees. "If Azuth was right it may well have even been Penae's proxy spark that was used for the attack."
"That...fits too well," Syala agrees at last. "She wanted us in particular out of the way of this. Why?"
"We couldn't have stopped it - it was a surprise attack after all. She probably wanted us unavailable for the aftermath. It took five deities of magic to barely sustain the weave for those few seconds Mystra took her attention from it. If any one of us had been absent, it's possible the entire endeavour would have failed with catastrophic consequences."
"We did as best we can, I know." Syala agrees with you, "But the best isn't always enough. What is that bitch going to do with Mystra's blood?"
"There's a lot - use it as a reagent for some sort of further attack on her is the most obvious one, but there are more worrying prospects. You know how the simulacrum spell works?" Alicia goes over the possibilities. "Some stronger shadow-stuff version of that of Shar's devising is hardly out of bounds."
"A second Mystra?" A quick, almost strangled noise, "A second Weave?" Syala eyes you, "What could a simulacrum or clone of Mystra do?"
"It wouldn't have divinity - no spell can copy that, but it would have Mystra's knowledge, and Shar might well be able to grant it divinity whether with a proxy spark or if she has access to any godseeds of her own," Alicia speculates. "What it could truly do or what Shar would use it for... well, ultimately we know it would be nothing good, don't we?"
"Nothing good," Syala echos.
Got any immediate reactions to this?
Do I understand the magic Mystra showed me enough that I can share it with people or do I have to study up on it before I'm confident in that?
Also is it anything I can use myself? I can retrain a spell for it if it's within my level though I guess that takes time.
Did I get an idea from studying the spell Shar used that tells me how it was targeted - ie a scrying effect, and the range it would have to be in around the target? In other words to know the safe sort of radius dimensional blocking would need in order to stop it from getting through to start with.
You do, sure. You could make something with it or I could if you want.
You'd need roughly 30ft of blocking in theory, but you'd guess higher would only be prudent.
Yes I would really like to know that spell for safety's sake.
For now we'll warn Latha/Jessica/Anty first, then Alicia will contact Zaphkiel about passing on the details to be disseminated through Celestia while her avatar visits Bytopia to tell Seira (or more likely Elle or Kascha).
There's a big list of others to warn but they get first dibs.
I'll write the spell up this weekend, I owe Moore one as well.
It's not hard to warn your closest friends. "This is troubling," Latha says as she experiments with understatements. "If not catastrophic. She has Mystra's blood?"
Jessica is silent, gaze on you.
Antenora exhales softly, "If she manages to harm or slay Mystra, what will happen if the Weave falls?"
"Nothing good," she tells Antenora. "There's little point in speculating, for now if you're ever spending more than a few minutes in a location make sure it's dimensionally locked for at least thirty feet around you. That'll keep Shar from being able to attack you in the same way. And if you can manage Mystra's counterspell," probably more do-able for Latha than anyone else right now, "Make sure to have it ready at all times. Shar did this once. She can do it again. Whenever she wants. No one is safe."
"Mercy..." Antenora breathes out, "Are you certain she can do it again?"
"As far as we know it cost her a little bit of her divine essence - about the same as making a proxy," Alicia answers. "It's an ugly business but we all know you can farm those back from the huge number of weak demon lords no one cares about outside of their particular layer of the Abyss. Shar wouldn't have any trouble on that score. So unless there's some other limited resource she's expending and can't replace? Yes she can do it again. And she will do it again, and that's why I need to go warn others quickly."
Antenora's color drains as she shakes her head, "This is a disaster."
"Go, sister," Jessica urges, "We'll take precautions here."
"Stay safe," Alicia says as she contacts Zaphkiel while her avatar plane shifts straight to Bytopia to visit the Cauldron.
Zaphkiel, I have news of Shar's ability to strike at anyone in Creation with impunity and details of how to counter it from Mystra. Who can I bring it to to have it disseminated across Celestia's influence?
I shall suffice and see that the House of the Triad and Hebdomad are informed.
Can I datablast it at Zaphkiel through divine speech? Presumably it's pretty complex stuff at least in terms of the spell Mystra made.
Zaphkiel can bridge that at worst, so sure.
<sharsnip.myst>
Alicia sends over the details of the counter spell first to Zaphkiel before her commentary.
Shar can sacrifice a tiny bit of divine essence - similar to a proxy spark and I suspect as easily replaceable, to target anyone in Creation for harm in this manner. Normal dimensional interference should block it, but using Mystra's counterspell should allow one to not only prevent it but also to steal what Shar expends in the casting. Making it risky in this manner is likely our best means of dissuading her from employing it too frequently, but it's still going to become an ongoing threat.
Possible.
You did well to prevent disaster. I could improve the spell further, but that would tell Mystra much, perhaps too much, if you can improve her own spellwork.
You could always approach her directly with your own suggestions. This was an ordeal for her and I don't think her pride would outweigh her relief at having a stronger countermeasure against repeat occurrences.
Such a move is not without some risk, and I will discuss it with my counterpart. Our work continues apace and we must weigh all the options and possible ramifications.
I can't force you to do anything, but we mustn't underestimate the danger being posed here. It affords Shar a way to slay a deity in their divine realm with no risk to herself. What wounded Mystra could end Moore or Alyssa.
Yes.
I will see to Mystra's improvement on this spell.
Thank you. I will continue warning our allies and passing along what we currently know.
Selune is an obvious target for Shar's wrath as well, so while her avatar chats up her friends in Bytopia, the real Alicia continues on to the Gates of the Moon, hurried but still with the polite divine 'knock' at the edge of Selune's realm.
You feel Selune's presence, acceptance to your request follows a moment after.
Thus Alicia enters the Gates of the Moon and waits a moment once inside for Selune to either send an avatar her way or summon her to some location within.
The moon above is bright and radiant. Amid its light you see the ghostly face of a woman - young and old, chlid and grandmother, crone and maiden.
You are welcomed to the Gates of the Moon, Alicia.
Alicia looks up towards the moon.
Thank you, Selune. Unfortunately I bring grave news of a new form of attack Shar has developed, and a countermeasure earned in blood by Mystra.
What vile blasphemy has Shar conjured forth this time?
A method of attacking someone from her home no matter where in Creation the target may be. Dimensional warding should block it and Mystra has developed a spell to protect a potential target on an ongoing basis. Shar used this to strike at Mystra when she was secure in Dweomerheart.
Explain, now. Tell me everything.
Alicia explains the circumstances of the attack and that Mystra's blood was stolen and she was sufficiently weakened by it that the other deities of Dweomerheart as well as herself and Marie had to temporarily assume custody of the Weave so that Mystra could heal herself.
Selune's good people, and this is important information regarding the machinations of her greatest foe.
This is dire and cannot be allowed to progress. Mystra's defense is adequate, but there must be more done. A lesson to teach Shar that her efforts here are foolishness, to punish her for the presumption. Do you agree?
I agree fully. Mystra has asked me to spread this knowledge and I shall, since safety comes first. But reprisals must be made.
To capture or destroy her divine essence is the goal, this is only a defense. She must be stopped and chastised for this, yet another assault on Shadow would likely achieve little as of now.
Capturing more of her proxies might help, but she may be withdrawing those anyway. Beezlebub recently captured one of the Shadow Twelve, a group normally comprising of proxies except this one had had that blessing revoked while otherwise seeming to be in Shar's favour.
Above, the images settle into the visage of a middle aged woman, face severe.
Then we must simply capture and slay more Sharrans, until we succeed. A task I prepare for - tell me, are your arms and those of your allies sufficient to this task?
Capturing Sharrans is easy. It's finding them that's the trick.
A shimmer. A lovely young woman is before you, clad in a diaphanous gown of moonlight. Selune meets your gaze as she speaks, "Shar is my enemy. It is highly possible she will attempt this tactic on me. All the better if we are prepared to punish her for it. May I count on your aid in this?"
"Of course," Alicia says. "We've worked together against her before, and she's not a foe I can face alone."
"Then I will devise a way," Selune declares, "Do you have any insights of your own to add?"
"I'm afraid I don't at the moment," Alicia admits. "But can I ask that you share Mystra's spell with the other deities who reside with you, so they too can be protected? For now I must continue spreading word."
"I will," Selune agrees to your request, "I will see to it that Shaundakul and Alyssa as well as hers will be informed."
"Thank you. Please contact me if I can be of any help with your plans for Shar. For now I'm going to Brightwater."
She can tell Sulia the details and trust her to pass it on to the others there.
Most of the rest of this can be skipped along since it's just exposition. So going to tell Sulia and who else, lemme see if any need IC coverage real quick.
After Sulia then Morwel, then Red Knight, then *sigh* Beezlebub.
Avatarlicia also told the Bytopia gang at the same time as Alicia was chatting it up with Zaphkiel, then she'd go tell Lathander/House of Nature.
Most of this goes well enough.
However, Queen Morwel holds you. You meet her before a lake, a crystal blue lake that stretches on and on seemingly forever under a bright, sunny sky. Her presence is everywhere here as...
Calamity comes closer. In my dreams I see greater troubles that menace Creation. The Godsrush comes, and yet it heralds blessings and disasters married together.
"Not all of the newly risen gods will be forces for righteousness," Alicia says as she stands at the edge of that lake. "More, I fear more new ones will rise, sponsored by Shar."
Zaphkiel never even mentioned the possibility of finding one on the plane of shadow, even if the other transitive planes were counted. And those close to Shar can always try to ascend the conventional way and be afforded Ao's permission.
I fear the same. Malice will not be the last that falls to your blade.
There are whispers of others that have reached me. A daemon in Shar's service, a gloom and also a refugee from the Unseelie Court that swore himself to Shar. Perhaps the worst of all, for he is a leShay. It may yet be lies and distortions, but I fear that if not true then it is a prophecy of what is to come.
"A leShay, you say?" Alicia asks. "I do wonder if that connects to my recent troubles with the Queen of Air and Darkness. But only whispers? They'll have to announce themselves if they wish to Compete and grow, but if they're being prepared as merely sacrificial pawns Shar may be stunting their ultimate growth to better suit her short term goals."
I have considered and decided to entrust you and Seira with a gift of knowledge. It is not knowledge that many know, and it must stay hidden from most of Creation until the day to reveal it comes forth. I had merely waited until the proper moment to share it with the two of you, but should this be true, it is best that you two both know.
"If you say it must be hidden then I'm willing to trust you," Alicia says, her good relationship with Queen Morwel ensuring that. "Do you want to tell us together?"
Yes. Leave and return here with Seira.
Her avatar was just at the Cauldron, but she'll go back herself and retrieve Seira.
"I'll be back as soon as I have her then," she says, opening a gate to Bytopia.
Just going to bring Seira along then? If so I'll just move her over here assuming no resistance.
That's the plan.
Okay, go ahead and contact Seira in her thread real quick.
Thus Seira returns with Alicia, to that lakeside where Morwel's presence is strong.
Alicia, Seira. I would reveal a truth to the two of you.
Seira smiles, always happy to visit with Morwel. And she's even awake this time!
"It's one she wants us to keep in confidence," Alicia adds for Seira's benefit since she came into this without the lead-in Morwel gave Alicia.
"Of course!"
Images come in your minds.
A great lake deep in Arborea, one Seira knows because she visited it to obtain a divine seed.
Sorrow, great and terrible.
Division.
Necessity.
A race torn apart, split into two in the deepest layers of Arborea. Eladrin and fey, torn apart from one another.
"How are these things related?" Seira asks, trying to fit them in like a puzzle in her mind.
Well, eladrin and fey are very similar. But so are elves, so Alicia always took it as one of those things where a lot of creatures are similar to elves in the same way so many are similar to humans.
"So you're telling us that eladrin and fey split from the same root?" Alicia asks. She thought it would have more to do with what Shar's doing, given the context of their discussion.
Yes.
There were once only eladrin. Events conspired that the fey were needed, and it fell on my shoulders to make that sacrifice. To divide my house, to put it to the shadows so that few know the truth. The leShay are those reborn eladrin who became the first fey, some of the greatest of the ancient eladrin made that sacrifice, and thus, some of them fell to the Unseelie Court when winter's coldness stole them away.
Were I to reveal that I rule the fey under a different name and identity, chaos would follow. To allow me so openly such a lever over the Primes would be intolerable.
"Morwel has heard whispers of new deities sworn to Shar. A daemon, a gloom, and a leShay," Alicia then gives Seira some extra context as she now understands the reason for why Morwel is telling them this now.
"Does this mean... you're also Queen Titania? What of the Queen of Air and Darkness? Or Oberon?" she then asks Morwel.
"That daemon, any chance it's Yarus?" Seira asks curiously.
Yes, I am Titania. Oberon was formerly Samsel, one of my old consorts. The Queen of Air and Darkness is more complicated.
It may be. It may be a daemon who once served Anthraxus as Yarus did, but there are many daemons who served the former Oinoloth.
"Just to focus me, here," Seira muses, "are we discussing how we'll investigate Shar's influence, or are we planning a strike at one of her minions?"
For now, it is a warning, for I know of the leShay and know them, both those who stayed true and those who fell away. If what I have heard is true and he has ascended, then you will face a terrible enemy, one you must be warned of should your paths cross.
"Then please, tell us what to watch out for," Alicia asks. It's good information they didn't have before.
"I was getting pretty restless where it comes to Shar, so the warning comes at a good time. In the end, we have to deal with Shar's minions and allies first, so that facing her would be easier later on, so why not deal with those we can now?"
His name is Chylas. He is a wizard who once studied the stars and maintains power over them. In the Unseelie Court, he has studied the long, cold nights of winter. Starless nights of shadows, save for whatever light glistens on the snow. He can prevent the sun from rising, can bring about eternal winter and his cold pierces any defenses against cold. His control of the stars lets him discern the future and destiny, which makes him a seer with few peers save the divine, and channel the power of starlight to wipe away his enemies.
He wields Bylinthas, a scythe he forged of dead stars. He is skilled with it and reaves away limbs with each strike, only for shadow limbs to replace them, ones that fight against the victim. An inspiration he received in the Abyss in a study of Ubalukks.
But his greatest gift is that he still remembers and holds some fragment of heavenly glories. He is highly resistant to holy powers of all kinds. He is one of the few of evil that truly does not fear the righteous.
Chylas has not been seen for over a million years, yet whispers of his name stir and I feel his presence moving once more in Creation.
"And if that information is from so long ago, he's likely grown even more dreadful since then," Alicia says dourly. "This is still valuable to know, especially of his resistance to holy power. That would make him a tricky foe for me."
"It might be a painful question, but how did the fey divide so evenly into the two courts? It would be a terrible oversimplification, yes, but isn't the Unseelie strongly aligned against your nature? Unlike celestials, it's not like they all Fell, is it?"
She nods her agreement at Alicia's words. It would be a bad match for her as well, given those powers over cold. But the fight will look impressive, at least.
A bridge appears over the lake, leading further in.
Seira takes the invitation!
Alicia follows right after Seira, crossing the bridge with measured strides that cover far more ground than a mortal would.
In the center of the lake sits an island. Here, beneath an ancient tree sits Queen Morwel. She is resting back and asleep against the tree, as if merely napping. Yet when you approach her eyes open and she pats the ground next to her.
Walking over, Alicia sits herself in a prim kneeling position on the grass, waiting expectantly. Morwel does things at her own pace after all.
Seira doesn't waste time taking a seat at Morwel's side! Resting her back against the same tree is bound to be pleasant, too~
Once you do, "I have never had a child of my own flesh and blood, even if many I create call me mother." Queen Morwel begins. "But there are those close to me as a child would be, or a brother or sister, or a cherished friend. Once the Queen of Air and Darkness was one of that number. She was the greatest of the ancient eladrin, and in a more just Creation, would have ascended long before the split."
"So it is with so many we call 'greatest'," Alicia says glumly, considering Eblis and Triel. It's a good reason to stay humble!
"Yes, it happens a lot," Seira agrees with a grimace. Why is it a binary choice, though? If you believe in your own greatness, why not follow the dragonic path or something? Why do you have to fall if you can't ascend properly? Flying works in three dimensions....
"Out of love, she volunteered to join the fey," Morwel goes on, "With tears I accepted. With sorrow I watched as she grew fascinated by winter. Then, for reasons I know not, she petitioned Ao. I do not know what she told him or how she succeeded, but she was accepted." She closes her eyes here, a soft frown on her face like a ghost's memories and regrets. It fades just as easily before, "Thus was the Unseelie Court born."
"Have you tried reaching out to her?"
"I have," Morwel says, but does not elaborate on that. "We will meet at the end, when the time comes for the two families to be reunited. It will not be the final day, but it will be one close to it."
"If you believe it is inevitable," Seira voices, "why wait until later to meet decisively?"
"She was... reasonable enough, in the end when I had to parlay with her," Alicia says. "But I now suspect Chlyas instigated that conflict. Chylas slew Snowwind while wearing my face."
"That victory will serve a purpose there that can be accomplished at no other time," Queen Morwel says, "A purpose that may yet save her soul."
Then her beautiful gaze turns to Alicia, "Such an imitation would be within his ability."
"Although... it was an avatar. Either he's been a deity for longer than suspected, or there's some other trickery at play," Alicia admits, thinking on it deeper.
That gift Zaphkiel gave them to hasten their avatars' growth, might Shar have access to something similar?
"It may be so. I would not put it beyond Shar to hide such a fact," Morwel agrees, "It is not yet well known that another of Moore's companions is a deity, and she wishes not to Compete. This information has not spread far and it is not greatly hidden, and Shar can hide something many times superior to that."
"Yes. I still don't have proof anyway, it's just an educated guess based on these new facts. Without a way to find and confront him, there's little I can do. But Selune is preparing to strike against Shar again, she should know about these potential complications," Alicia says.
"Oh, she is? I was hoping to hear from her again soon. Is there anything concrete?"
"I have not heard that yet," Morwel concurs, "What is it she will do?"
"Not yet," Alicia answers, shaking her head. "After Shar's attack on Mystra reprisals must be made, but it's currently more a desire than a plan. She did ask me to tell her if I had any insights that would prove useful, and the presence of at least three unknown deities working under Shar certainly qualifies."
"Tell her, but impress the need for discretion," Morwel agrees.
"On the existence of the daemon, gloom, and leshay?" Alicia asks. "Obviously I wouldn't have told her about your connection with the fey."
"A good point," Seira muses. "What exactly is alright to be shared with allies?"
"The information about the three," Morwel concurs, "Selune is already aware of the Queen of Air and Darkness's origins, but do not spread it farther."
"Very well, I'll be circumspect in what I say," Alicia acknowledges. Morwel gave her the goods, she can decide how they get used.
At this Morwel smiles faintly, "Seira, how have your own efforts been?" she asks "We have talked about Alicia's but not your own yet."
"Unlike pretty much anything I ever tell my closest friends, this is something I don't want going past the two of you," Seira responds. "I've been traveling through the Iron Tower, so that's why I seem a bit out of touch. The stories really didn't do it justice."
Alicia sits up straighter and looks at Seira. "You've made progress?"
Morwel sits up as well, "You've gone and returned? Few can say that, Seira. Tell me more."
Seira shakes her hand to and fro. "Progress,yes. And we weren't discovered, either. But I still haven't finished mapping the Tower, nevermind finding Yemimah's prison."
"How big is it?" Morwel asks. "At least that you've seen?"
"As big as a Prime, by my estimates," Seira responds, summoning a copy of her map to show Morwel and Alicia. "Spatial manipulation on a massive scale. Without some of these noted shortcuts, you'll likely be walking for weeks just to reach the first town inside the Tower. There are other towns that I know of, too, and while appearing on the small side at first the same effect is used to increase their area as well. It's not all two-dimensional, either, as some towers within seem to go much farther than you would expect."
Alicia peers at the map Seira made, memorising it in case it's ever useful for her. "He has had a long time to keep adding and adding to it."
Queen Morwel studies it, "He's known as an abjurer, but his skill with dimensional manipulation is far greater than most suspect."
"The defenses are insane. I don't mean just very good, but they've reached a point where stopping would've kept things cost-effective and just kept going. And going, and going, and going. At least I got some ideas about actually sensible defenses for the Cauldron out of it-- and I'm rambling, sorry. From what I could see, escaping if discovered would be next to impossible. Getting past that many redundancies without alerting Dispater would take so much power you might be better-served going after him directly. In fact, Amaryl thinks that he's the weak link in the whole thing, so we're looking into his weaknesses before trying the Tower again. If we knew enough to unbalance him... an actual threat to his life, no matter how unlikely, is bound to be magnified to someone like him."
"Does he ever leave the tower though, rather than just sending avatars?" Alicia asks. "You might have to go in there to threaten him anyway."
"I've told those who seek it before how dangerous it is," Queen Morwel says, "I did not know specifics, but to see you call it that impossible is sobering. All the words and worries mean less compared to what you just said."
"Then," Queen Morwel says, "You need a reason to make him leave the tower. Easily said, easily as a dream, but a dream difficult to make reality."
"That," Seira agrees with Morwel, "or discovering or forging a sword that can kill him. Since he'll actually die if killed in the Tower, that would make him hesitate to show up in person, and if he does anyway I could try negotiating from a position of strength. Ah, and I said next to impossible. There's always hope, after all~"
"To hope," Morwel agrees, "Good hunting, Seira. Oh, do you know what kind of sword he would fear?"
"Not yet, I'm afraid. I've focused on the Tower rather than Dispater himself, too much as it turns out. Do you have any ideas?"
"Probably something chaotic and holy, that isn't made of metal?" Alicia suggests as a starting point.
"I would suspect riverine," Queen Morwel speculates at last.
Do I know about it?
Know about what?
This will most likely involve an K:P check so go ahead and make that too.
Riverine. K:P 120.
Riverine is high pressure water kept in a shape by plates and molds of force. It's mainly notable for armor, which deflects as much as it protects.
You recall reading a grimoire that alludes to the 'Devil of the Second' who does not like it.
"That would make sense," Seira agrees.
Do I know where to find someone who could make a weapon with it?
You could find many such places, sure.
She nods to herself. "I'll have to ask Elle to make it for me. Ah, and since we're talking about travels, I was just about to visit Sylica when this daemon reached out to me in the worst way...."
Seira provides an illusion-assisted account of the daemon in question approaching her with the scroll, and then the conversation with Dulas. "Amaryl thinks it might've been Yarus, but really, who knows? I'm just annoyed that it feels very pointless. The scroll didn't seem to hold any secrets or strange magics at a casual glance, so what exactly was it all for?"
"Probably misinformation?" Alicia suggests. "Some things true, some things not, enough to draw you in and get you working towards their ends? I imagine these new deities are very eager to test their wits and their strength against us, and Shar's slowly letting them off the leash."
"I suppose that's possible, but it feels very clumsy and amateurish."
"As if they are newly risen and amateurs," Queen Morwel says, a hint of a smile showing on her face. "Shar is not the type to nurture them."
Alicia can only shrug as her speculation is put down, not knowing nearly enough about the situation to volunteer anything else. "I don't know, then."
Seira snorts. "They're all ridiculously old and have aeons of wielding power over me, if I can't hold them to a higher standard...."
Shaking her head as she trails off, she asks Alicia, "Do you know if someone tried this on Sulia or Moore? If you're right and they're sounding us out, the sensible move would be to try all who ascended in what passes for recent on the planar scale."
"I haven't heard of such from either of them, only that my own issue with the Queen of Air and Darkness was also started by someone using a false identity gambit," Alicia answers.
"It may be coincidental or not," Morwel says, "But..." Her look is gentle, her hands going to squeeze both of yours, "I believe the dreams that will come from it are wise ones."
"For now anyway, it's something to keep in mind. I'll have a better chance at verifying it when they reveal themselves," Alicia says, squeezing Morwel's hand back, her own larger and rougher than the fairy queen's.
"Thanks for having us over!" Seira chirps, hugging Morwel.
A squeeze back and a hug back, respectively, as...
Anything else the two of you want to add here?
I'm good.
Yes, likewise
Next moves for the both of you?
It's been ages, is there anything to fight? Alicia?
Assuming no issues with telling the rest of my list, Alicia will go back to Mystra and Marie to see how they're doing and report job done.
Okay, new threads for both of you.