Home.
The four of you stand there after your battle, a moment to recover from it. It's Cresiel who speaks first, "When I faced it, all I could feel was its anger."
Sylvie glances back at where the portal was. "Okay, so we know the stories about its anger over its fate are not exaggerated."
"Yes, but we survived." Moore says.
A breath in and out. "I'm sorry. I was foolish to think all it would take was kind words to get it to listen. I won't make that error again." He bows his head. "I could've gotten you all into a much worse situation because of my optimism."
Jetina slowly rubs the back of her neck, as if working out a kink. Afterwards, "I'm glad we tried. We know we need a different approach to it."
"You wouldn't be you if you didn't try. It was foolish - but you're that sort of fool." Sylvie says it without rancor, just understanding. "Apology accepted, now let's not poke it until we have a better plan this time."
"But what -is- the plan?" Moore asks. "I mean... hm."
He takes in a breath. "Maybe that's part of why the Archangels gave this task to us. Because they think we can unravel how to do it."
"We need to sit down and think," Sylvie says, "I don't think any of us can beat it once it falls into that rage, so any plan that involves combat's dubious at best."
"I agree." Moore says. "Maybe... hum. I don't want to use the Beyond as a solution to this..."
"That is a terrible idea," Sylvie says immediately, "But so I can know what's going on in your head, use the Beyond how?"
Jetina hums, "Perhaps a horror in the Beyond could destroy it? But it seems completely out of our control."
"Basically something to subdue his rage - destroy it, or at least interfere with it." Moore says. "Think of it like... what I tried when you fought us there - like when I was trying to sever your connection to 21." He says. "Somehow or another, to sever his connection to his rage, at least temporarily. He might still hate us, he might still not listen... but it's also possible we might be able to get through."
"Easier said than done," Sylvie reflects, "I'm thinking of resources and not coming up with any. Even if we can force magic to calm him past his no doubt considerable natural immunity, his rage will render his will even more unbreakable. It might not ever fail, so we would absolutely have to deal with him before he gets angry, but I'd imagine our mere divine presence would infuriate him."
"Well, we can't send avatars, because that would probably fall to the same trouble." Moore says. "Maybe... I don't know, this is a challenge."
He rubs his chin. "It is easier said than done, but I think we have to find some solution that isn't... I don't even know where to begin. Could we find something that mutes our divine nature?" He asks. "He'd still know who we are, but... maybe that would be enough?"
Cresiel muses, "Perhaps, but he seemed to discern what we were even with protective magic."
"He may have abilities for that," Sylvie reasons, "Perhaps not and he discerned it from our attempts at divine magic or efforts, but I suspect he would. His entire reason to exist may be..."
"Also," Jetina speaks up, "Why were you calling him it before, Sylvie? You just called him he."
"It's more of a force of nature than a man or woman," Sylvie answers honestly, "From creation to what it became. It might appear more as a man, but I doubt it has any meaningful identity for it at all. No more than a storm or a hurricane does. All it has is implacable purpose. It's still mentally easier to refer to it as a man. Common isn't a gendered language like Elven is, but-"
The blank look on Jetina's face says it all.
Sylvie blows out a breath, "Right. Language theory isn't your forte. Never mind, we're getting away from the point. We can try to hide our natures but we may be wasting our time with that."
"Yes, sorry, that's my fault." Moore says. "I didn't want to call him 'it,' or... anything, it's just a force of habit. At any rate, talking in circles won't get us anywhere." Moore says. "But we clearly need to do... something. If masking and hiding our natures won't solve it, we should try and think of something else."
A rub of his chin. "You know, maybe the best solution is simply asking someone like Xandra. Sometimes you need a little bit of mystic divinations." He says. "It may not lead us anywhere, but we ought to at least see if it can point us in some direction."
"A good a first idea as any," Cresiel speaks up, "We lose nothing by the effort."
Then it's off to find Xandra! Who probably is already expecting them.
Xandra is indeed. She awaits you inside of Hope's Landing. "I'm glad all of you are well," she notes.
"Well and alive," Sylvie says, "Even if we had a bit of a scare."
"We definitely ran into a situation that could've used your expertise." Moore says. "But now we need it even moreso."
"Go on," Xandra invites.
Expo away.
"We need to find something to be able to talk to the Hecatoncheires." Moore says. "Some way to communicate to it without it flying into a rage... or some way to mitigate the rage. There has to be something in Creation that can do that."
"You need someone to talk to it who doesn't enrage it," Xandra concludes.
"Easier said than done." Moore says. "What does your insight say about who we might know who has the ability to do that?"
"Someone who has taken a Vow of Peace would be the first step," Xandra declares, "Someone who is not divine, someone who is beyond conflict as much as possible."
"Perhaps Pistis Sophia would know of someone... or Eldath." Moore says. "But it's a start."
"Start there," Xandra agrees, "Both are good suggestions."
"We may as well start in house first." Moore says. "If anyone would like to come, you are welcome."
He's going to head to Solania! This isn't something he wants to do remotely, so he may as well go directly to the source.
Walk me through your entire plan real quick?
He's going to Solania, and he'll either go to where Pistis Sophia usually resides, or wait for her to show up in some capacity. In a sense he's knocking on Solania to let her know he's there but not calling her from where he is.
Okay. Xandra will go with you.
You find yourself in the misty valleys of Solania. The air is crisply cold and the light is as bright as ever, the fog here not enough to stop it.
Go ahead.
"We're not here wandering, we have a purpose, so let's proceed." Moore says - still, even with that, he just heads forward - as much as forward has any meaning here. "It's been some time since I came here..."
"When was the last time?" Xandra asks as the two of you walk ahead.
"Remember that mysterious old man that showed up in Hope's Landing?" Moore asks. "I think I went over this, but that was Medi. I came here just to... validate what my heart told me about who it was."
"I wonder how he's doing now?" Xandra muses aloud, "At least he gave Elena closure."
"He has his own role to fulfill in all of this." Moore says. "But I think... he's happier, now that he did see her again." A smile after that. "She's a good friend, so she deserves to have her father be part of her life, even if he is an immortal curmudgeon."
A nod from Xandra, a consideration.
The Hecatoncheires has such rage. It is magnificent to see.
Just to be clear, that's Shar, right? The purples always kind of blend together for me.
Yes.
He has to keep decorum up, even with her.
Hello, Shar.
Perhaps strangely, there is no reply to your greeting.
Was she expecting some other response?
No, this was probably just a warning.
"Shar apparently witnessed our battle against the Hecatoncheires." Moore says. "Either that, or she was able to hear about it... I imagine it could be anything."
"She has a disagreeable disposition," Is Xandra's simple reply, "She contacted me while you were gone. Probing me for information and answers, indirectly."
"Hah!" Moore says with a single laugh. "That's probably the nicest thing anyone's ever said about her. Well, once we save the Hecatoncheires, she'll understand that hope always overcomes despair."
"Somehow I think Shar is a slow learner," Xandra says back, with a hint of a smile.
"Then we'll just have to keep teaching her." Moore says as they continue on!
Give me a d100, terror pixie.
[21:41] <Nephrite> roll 1d100
[21:41] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=39 ]{39}
You walk a time in the mists. You lose yourself in the cool air and foggy expanses.
So when she walks besides you, it's hardly even noticed.
"You seek my council?" Pistis Sophia asks, as you blink yourself from a reverie of the fogs.
"Ascetic." Moore greets her. "I come to you to ask for a favor. We seek your strongest follower - yet not in arms, in fact, the opposite. We seek one who has taken a Vow of Peace. We..." A breath in and out. "We are going to save the Hecatoncheires."
He says the last part as if it's simply a sure thing. It is known.
Because there is always hope.
"I understand," Pistis Sophia says simply. "You are right to seek one of both strength and peace. Without vast strength, the Hecatoncheires will rend them apart in moments. Without great peace, fury cannot be abated."
"My words are insufficient." Moore says - a tinge of regret. "But I think that they will be able to save it, to bring it from its hopelessness and to hope. For... whatever it is worth, we have ways and means of protecting them, whoever it is you have in your mind."
"Tell me more of what you want," Pistis Sophia invites as you walk.
"Hm..." Moore hums once. "We need someone, as you said, who may be able to survive blows with it." Moore says. "But beyond that... someone who embodies the merits and values of peace and hope above all else. I... have a sinking suspicion that Shar may try and intervene if we were to be able to start to win it over, which is why I say this. Someone who could talk to it... I don't know that they need to have to have a silver tongue like I do, but I think being able to communicate the virtues of Celestia would be a boon to us."
"If Shar chooses to meddle," Pistis Sophia points out, "Do you have an answer to that?"
"The answer is a force of arms against her." Moore says. "We faced her recently and had to flee, but... she wouldn't be fighting on her own terms again. I believe we could triumph."
"And if she brings allies or provokes the Hecatoncheires into a rage?" A simple question, calm, but ever so pointed. "She may merely need to enter his sight to dash your plans awry."
"...A valid concern." Moore says. "I don't know what we would do in that situation."
"That was her purpose with that communication," Xandra realizes aloud, voice soft, "With a few words she all but told us she can interfere in any effort we try. Unless, of course, we manage to do it in a way that she's not aware of."
"There isn't a lot we can do about her ability to interfere." Moore says. "Unless we pulled her interest somewhere else, but I don't know if that would work. I also don't trust our ability to do anything that someone like her wouldn't notice - we're not especially the stealthy types."
"So we know are options are sharply limited," Xandra remarks, "Perhaps the key is to lure the Hecatoncheires somewhere that neutralizes those advantages."
Moore nods. "I wonder if it can leave the Abyss at all?" He rubs his chin. "If it can, we could probably take it somewhere that Shar couldn't so easily interfere, but I'm not sure where we could actually take it where that'd be the case. I don't even know if we can do that part... but it's worth pursuing as an option. Actually, hm..."
Actually, maybe a K:P for 119 will tell me that? Can the Hecatoncheires leave the Abyss
As far as you know, yes, it can.
"If we work on the assumption that it can leave and go somewhere else, where's the most advantageous place for us?" Moore asks. "Positive Energy? Well, maybe we should work out how we're going to lure it anywhere before we try and figure out where to go."
A turn to Pistis Sophia. "I apologize, I should've come up with this before we came here, but given the severity of this circumstance, I hope you can forgive me for taking your time up like this."
"I would suggest a plane of peace," Pistis Sophia is not fazed in the slightest by your words, "Every advantage that may calm it should be taken."
Moore nods. Well, they probably can't get it to come to Celestia, but...
K:P for 119 - what comes to mind? If it's Mechanus, or that's one of the options, I think Moore would pass on it since it's possible the Primus might be influenced somehow.
The Heavens are the most obvious choice. Elysium in particular is strong for that, though admittedly an abomination is going to shake that off as a matter of course.
"...No, I get it now." Moore says. "We have to take it to Elysium. That's why the... It's what they wanted to have happen, it's why they were the ones to charge us with this." Moore says, almost as he had some sort of epiphany. "So, we lure it to Elysium... we have to be honest - lies and deception will not win the day here. We lure it to Elysium to... something. What would get it to come there? I suppose we could use ourselves as bait, but that would lead to it enraging... so we have to think of something else."
"That's the hard part," Xandra muses aloud, "How to get it to pass through a portal willingly, and to even set it up."
"I don't think there will be any resistance on the Elysium side." Moore says. "We can find a way to keep something open there for it to pass through. Cantasa Alexandria probably has a way if we need her. So if we work on the idea that the portal is open, we just have to decide how to get it here. So... let's think about what it wants. It wants to overthrow divinity and kill all of those who betrayed it... if it saw an opportunity to do that, its instincts may make it come through the portal if it thinks there's a chance to get someone or take revenge on them."
A pause here as he thinks for a moment. "Though the problem is, at that point, it may already be enraged... so maybe we need to think of something else... if it saw an opportunity to gain an ally, would it pursue that? If our Vow of Peace individual were to reach out and invite it to talk, under a promise of safety? It's tough to say how it would react to that... but it may be possible? I think we have to work on a lot of unknowns and just be ready with lots of extra plans if the first one falls through."
"In other words, we need our minds more than our swords," Xandra muses.
"Yes, I see a battle of the mind and soul, not of arms. It will win any battle of arms." Pistis Sophia agrees as you walk, the cool mists blowing past you. "It was made to a supreme weapon. It is folly to engage it as a weapon."
Would Moore know about the 'the only thing that can harm it is a weapon that will never be a weapon' bit of its fluff?
K:P check.
Take 10 for 119.
Yes, you would.
"...'a weapon that has never been a weapon and will never be a weapon'... Peace." Moore says, quietly. "Peace can never be a weapon and never has been. Of course."
He closes his eyes. "Now we know, but we still must find something that would entice it. We have to find something that under all circumstances it would want to pursue."
"Peace?" Xandra asks, "You think that's the answer to the riddle? I don't follow how peace is a weapon."
"You're thinking about it literally - like a sword is a weapon, right? But what about things that aren't objects? Some people say words are weapons. If you think about it like that... Peace is a 'weapon' in so far as it's used to end conflicts. It's a 'weapon' against war. It's a 'weapon' against fighting - a 'weapon' against weapons."
"It makes sense if your logic is the same as the ones who made this," Xandra muses, "But it's not beyond the impossible."
"I don't know that anyone exists who could answer it, but I think it's best idea. But... anyway, that doesn't help us get it to Elysium." Moore says. "It's not going to be lured there by a promise of peace, so what could we offer it to get it there?"
"What does it want?" Xandra reasons, "Find out what it wants and you have a lever. It wants to kill the divine, but what else?"
Moore takes a moment to think about that. "It wants allies for its mission... and it probably wants more power to succeed. Are those tangible enough, though...?" He muses quietly. "What else is there...?"
"Perhaps it's time we learned more about it," Xandra suggests, "Rather than assume? Knowledge is power, as they say."
"Yes, I suppose all we have right now are fragments." Moore says as he looks up. "We should probably go higher to find those answers."
A turn to Pistis Sophia again. "We will return when we have solidified exactly what we need. Thank you again." A small bow of his head follows this.
"I did little but let you reflect on your own thoughts," Is the answer instead, a faint smile, "I feel that is all you needed in this case."
"We will likely still need a champion's aid." Moore says as he begins to rise. "Should that be the case, we will return and await wisdom."
Okay then pixie, next move then?
We're going to go up until we find an obvious stopping point, or are redirected elsewhere.
The intent will be to better understand our good friend Heck Ton of Chairs.
Sure, give me a d100.
[21:14] <Nephrite> roll 1d100
[21:14] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=86 ]{86}
You wander in the fog.
Xandra stays at your side and is silent a goodly time.
Each step is quiet as the cold of the fog caresses your cheeks.
"If all else fails, will you try and destroy it?" Xandra asks at last.
"No." Moore says. "It doesn't deserve that. Once we defeat Shar, then I'll just find another way to save it."
Xandra smiles. A soft and warm smile. You feel her - her essence, her silent approval. Her love and compassion before she says, "Just do not forget your limitations, Moore."
"I won't." Moore promises. "But let's prove the impossible to be impossible first, shall we?"
Another d100.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 38, total 38[/blockquote]
You wander a time more. No path up to the Fifth Heaven immediately presents itself.
"Perhaps we have what we need already?" Xandra suggests as you continue to walk.
"Hm..." Moore stops and considers. "Perhaps we do. If we assume it seeks allies for its goal, perhaps simply... inviting it is enough?" He says.
"At least we're on the right track now," Xandra says, "I feel that the proper path has presented itself, we merely need to walk it."
"Then let us return to Solania to recruit the proper person." Moore says.
Okay, so we're on the same page here, refresh me on what you want here. Make it as detailed as you want. You may not get it all of course, but feel free to reach for the dream.
The following:
Vow of Peace
High Diplomacy
Maybe something unique for them with regards to peacefulness?
If Xandra has other suggestions he will add them.
Xandra would also suggest:
High endurance (hit points and other means to take a hit).
Possibly a Vow of Poverty so equipment isn't needed, but highly optional.
Some way or ability to cast Sublime Revelry because the Hecatoncheires melts things with its melee attacks.
All those are fine. We are probably looking for a monk//favored soul combo.
We can supplement with bard songs and magic if we need to (unless there's a sense that doing that would be problematic)
Okay, d100 with a +20 bonus.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100+20 : 19 + 20, total 39[/blockquote]
booooooooooooooo
Give me a Wisdom check as well.
In hindsight I shouldn't have deleted the post but I rolled wrong.
Total roll last time was 55, the die roll was 13. The bonus should be 35 so the total ought to be 48.
Rolling again with the right bonus either way, you can probably? Check the post if needed.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+35 : 10 + 35, total 45[/blockquote]
Sorry, phone posting is a challenge.
You wander a time.
Ahead in the fog you see a clearing. Here, tucked away amid the hills and valleys, is a small chapel.
"There are so many places that will never be found." Moore says quietly as he flies towards the chapel.
No one's about, but you can see the glass windows hint at fire and warmth within.
Moore flies up to politely knock on the door!
If there's no answer after a monitor, he will open the door himself.
After a monitor? I'm not one to talk, but phone posting gotcha, huh?
The door opens. A solemn man, bald and serious, opens it. He immediately kneels, head bowed. "You honor us, great ones."
not even sure how minute turns into monitor........
"Please, rise." Moore says. "We are here to ask a favor, so it is us who should be kneeling."
"Ask," The man says right away, standing back up as commanded.
"Are you the only one here?" Moore asks. "I have a feeling it's you who we are here for given the circumstances..." he may as well clarify before he goes into the whole story.
"No. I serve the Grand Master who lives here," Is the answer, "Master Palodes."
"We seek someone who has taken a Vow of Peace above all else." Moore says. "May we speak to Master Palodes, please? They may know who we seek."
A bow of his head again and the man leads you within.
"Thank you, good sir," Xandra murmurs as you follow.
"I'm sorry for the impromptu visit." Moore says as they're led in.
'I wonder if it's the Master of this place or someone else here.' Moore says to Xandra privately. 'What does your intuition tell you? Ah... I suppose it doesn't matter, we will see the truth here in a moment:'
Whoops, was checking something for this and got sidetracked from the post.
The Grand Master is a man. An old man, weathered by many years. Yet he rises as well as any young man. His long hair is gray and tied back, he wears plain, coarse robes and nothing else. "Peace," he offers to you. "I was gifted a vision that you would come."
All good, I know we're need stopping time.
Moore bows respectfully. "Then we need not words, though I will tell you as much as you wish to know about our reason for being here." He says.
The Grand Master stands in the center of this chapel, a small altar and a few rough wooden pews. "I await your wisdom."
"We seek one to help us save the soul of the being known as the Hecatoncheires." Moore says, simply. "We need someone who is strong of mind and body, yet that mind and body are those of only peace. We cannot win against that being in a matter of arms - we wish to save it by bringing it to Elysium, where we will..."
A breath in and out. "I do not yet know what miracles will happen there, but I know in my heart that this is the path we must take to save it, and to bring Creation to a brighter future." He says. "I will not act as if there are no dangers - in fact, this is extremely, exceedingly dangerous. I will aid whomever it is as much as I can, through magic and song so that they will be able to survive, should it come to blows with that creature."
"I hear and I obey. I will serve," Is his answer, "Whatever trial the Holy Mountain puts before me, I will rise to and I will overcome, as long as that is what is willed to be."
Moore flies down to kneel. "No, it is us who are your servants in this." He says quietly. "Humility and humbleness, as well as the strength of a peaceful heart, are what will win this day. This will not be a battle of gods told in the storybooks, but a miracle of Creation found with the power of peace."
"Then it will be as you will," Is the Grand Master's reply. "Let the will of Chronias be done, now and forever."
Moore rises with a smile. "We will. We will illuminate even the heart of that creature." He says. "Because there is always hope."
We probably ought to try and plan out logistics of this so we have every scenario covered, or at least try to plan around Shar as much as we can.
Sure, have a plan here?
I do not personally have one. We know the steps are:
*Get Hecaton to go to Elysium
*???
*Something about peace
*Win??
We probably need to hammer out more specifics than all of this.
Yes, you likely do. How do you plan to do that? That's what I'm really getting on about.
I had kind of hoped we might be able to figure that out IC or I could get some hints, as I really, truly don't have an idea. It seemed like it was alluded to earlier that we had all that we needed to solve the problem, so maybe it's just a matter of putting it together like elongate.
Entirely possible. That's what I'm getting at - who do you want to talk to about it?
Oh. Well, everyone can be involved, but I think we'd have the most success with Sylvie and Xandra.
You get everyone together. It's a quiet meeting, but as you do?
"Moore, Moore!" Grias floats up, "You have a message from Dweomerheart!"
"That's probably not good news." Moore says. "Let's see it."
He will take whatever message it is to read it!
It is a scroll. Paired down past the diplomatic talk, it is a simple request to come to Dweomerheart within seven days to 'fulfill the favors owed to the Mother of All Magic'.
Hm, does he really owe her any favors? He'd go there regardless, but...
Oh, right, he did ask about all those spells.
A nod after he's read it.
"Once we settle this matter, we'll make an appearance there." Moore says. "If this goes well, we may be able to offer her more of a boon than she realizes."
"If," Sylvie calls as you all settle in. "So where are we at now, Moore?"
"We have secured aid from Celestia in the matter." Moore says. "Master Palodes will help us. What we need to do is figure out what that means - and how we accomplish it." He says.
He clears his throat to gesture, causing some simple renditions of the current scenarios to appear in the air.
"So, our goal is to bring the Hecatoncheires to Elysium. I do not believe that to actually be the challenge here - but I'll get to that." He says. "No, it's figuring out what we even intend to do. Let's pretend for a moment, somehow or another, we're able to get it to come to Elysium and it speaks to Master Palodes. What then? What do we do?" Moore asks.
Another wave of his hand to demonstrate some possible scenarios. "It's possible that if I were able to talk to it, without being seen, or... something of that nature, I may be able to get through to it. I think our ultimate goal is to try and convince it to let go of its rage and despair, to let go of its anger, and to become its own creature." He says. "But I don't know how that part is accomplished. We also have to factor in Shar - she will absolutely try and ruin this, so we need to plan on how that's dealt with."
"I can provide some further insight," Sylvie speaks up as everyone listens. "Abominations are the cast-offs of divinity, such as the Neverborn or the Hecatoncheires. One aspect they all share is a curse, which is a source of torment to them. For example, a hunefer has a broken mind and cannot reach the divine it seeks, no matter what it does. That's a factor we need to understand as well."
"This isn't a battle, is it? At least not one of swords," Kaja scowls in thought, "It's easier when it's just a war."
"No, this is a battle for a soul." Moore says as he looks rather pointedly at Sylvie.
"I think the power of Elysium could remove the curse that we speak of... but I think it's going to be a matter that requires the Hecatoncheries to renounce its ways." Moore says. "I know... there is one thing there in Elysium that could tip things in our favor, but... if we don't have to use it, then I think we shouldn't try and rely on it."
Since it may not be clear, he's referring to the Gate itself. I assume Sylvie will know this, but the others may not.
"No." Sylvie says immediately, "That's a gamble that could cause unthinkable consequences if we make a mistake or it goes wrong. Absolutely not, Moore. The Empyrean Gate is not a resource to be used like that. I'm not sure Cantasa Alexandra wouldn't smite you for it, and if she does, things go even worse for us."
Cresiel looks to Sylvie at that, "Are you that certain?"
"Certain enough to remind Moore. It might well work, but some risks aren't worth it. If you're trying to gamble to save your house from debtors who want to tear it down, you don't gamble your house on lesser bets." Sylvie gently but firmly stamps her foot down. "Absolutely not."
"That's why I said we shouldn't rely on it." Moore says with a smile. "And, if I'm being honest, it was used to save Benfal from being destroyed. How many primes have fallen to the Hecatoncheires? I'm not trying to debate this or argue with you about it - I don't intend to ask her to do that unless something really does go so catastrophically wrong that we don't have any other options." He says.
"Which brings us back to the original question. Is this just a situation we have to simply believe in hope for?" He asks. "I don't know what else we can realistically do to tip this in our favor or to help assure it works out."
"That's the catch," Xandra says, "Even if we have a plan now, I feel like we're missing a critical component of it."
"Well, we have the barebones of a plan..." Moore says. "So let's walk through it from start to finish and fill in what we need to fill in from there. So, with that in mind, what is the first step? Getting Palodes to talk to the Hecatoncheires, yes? Does he do that remotely, or does he need to find it in person?"
"In person," Kaja says, "I doubt it would take some random voice seriously."
"He has a point," Jetina reckons, "That could just be the Abyss or a demon tormenting it."
"Being remote gains that psychological edge if used properly," Sylvie muses, "But will it profit us to destabilize the Hecatoncheires further, even as a calculated gamble? I doubt it."
"So he goes in person. Do we have any way of keeping this information from Shar?" Moore asks. "Or do we need to perform some actions elsewhere to get her attention?"
"It depends on how tightly Shar watches," Xandra says, "If she's devoted to this, likely not and there's little we can do about that. A distraction may be prudent."
"Dangerous though," Sylvie remarks, "And before you say it, an attack on Shadow is not in the cards for this."
"I think it's a strong idea," Cresiel disagrees, "But too dangerous for this. The simple truth is that we know what deities are capable of. If Shar puts attention on this, we can't stop her from at least noting what happens there."
"Well, I was invited to come talk to Mystra." Moore says as he waves the letter in the air. "Perhaps I should see what that's about. If it has something to do with Shar, then maybe we postpone this until that operation? If we were involved in an attack on Shadow, then that would assuredly keep Shar's hand out of this matter."
A pause. "But if we are involved, we couldn't help with the resolution of this, which I think we need to be involved in." A sigh after that. "So perhaps we still focus on this matter for now."
"For the best," Sylvie agrees. "Let's stay focused."
"What does Mystra want?" Is the question back, "If it's not urgent, then a simple inquiry shouldn't be ruinous," Jetina reasons.
"I don't know what it's about." Moore says. "I was going to go speak to her after this was done. For now, let's put the matter of Shar on the side and simply continue discussing this. So Palodes reaches the Hecatoncheires... and then what? Is able to somehow convince it to come to Elysium to talk?" Moore asks.
"To see that what it's doing is fruitless," Cresiel states, then leans forward. His mass overshadows you as he speaks, illuminated with the light of Chronias behind him, from a nearby window. "He has to understand that and know there's something better, that no matter how many times he rages and destroys, he will never succeed. What happened to him was wrong, but it doesn't justify his actions. That the one he truly wounds is himself. If he can't accept that small seed of possibility, it's pointless. You can't save someone who refuses to be saved."
"No, I agree." Moore says. "So we have to hope that Palodes can get through to it. Before he goes, we can wrap him in as much protection as we can offer, as Hecatoncheires will likely still lash out at him."
"Likely," Cresiel agrees, "If Palodes fails, do we have a way to save him from death?"
"There are plenty of spells that can do it." Moore says. "But should that come to pass, I do not know how fast we could get there, given the opposition we are facing. I think we simply have to believe in his ability and that Mount Celestia has shown us the path to him. But we can protect him before he goes with all the magic we have."
"So we're back to the same place," Sylvie agrees, "Let's focus on the other side of it. We get him to Elysium, how do we approach it from there?"
"At some point we need to talk to it directly." Moore says. "So let's try and figure out how we can manage to do that. Hm... maybe we can set up something there? Some sort of... message?" Moore says. "Perhaps visual and auditory... apologies? Something to help it understand that it can finally move on?"
A tap on his chin. "Something like messages of hope, maybe showing it what it could do with its life if it is willing to move past its anger and hatred?" He says.
That's considered before, "Maybe," Jetina says, "But I can't help but feel we need something more to it."
"Would direct apologies from its creators work?" Moore asks. "Or... hmm. Maybe we could show it possible futures somehow?"
"I doubt it, at least the first," Kaja reckons, "Too much bad blood. A better future might at least tempt it."
"Might," Sylvie seconds.
"Maybe we can show it what it could find here?" Moore says. "Maybe... a message from people who've been saved by us? The Empty Knight, as an example? Will?"
"I like it. It at least makes it authentic," Xandra notes, "It makes it more real."
Moore nods. "Maybe we can ask Synic too." He says. "So, Palodes convinces it to come to Elysium, where there are a host of messages of absolution and hope waiting. Then what? Do we just let it decide on its own? I don't feel like we can do much else."
"Maybe that's the test," Sylvie speaks up, "A test of faith."
"If that's the case, there's little we can do to influence it except believe in the hope that we've brought." Moore says. "Does anyone disagree?"
"No," Kaja says after a moment, "I don't think any of us do."
"All right, so let's walk through this one more time..." Moore says.
Outline-
Buff Palodes as much as they can, send him into the Abyss
Have him contact the Hecatoncheries
Have him convince it to go to Elysium
They have their messages (or the people they've saved?) there waiting
Hope for the best
If there's anything I'm mechanically missing here OOC now is the time to tell me.
That seems to be your plan, yes.
Does anyone have any IC input on this plan other than 'we seem to be missing something' :(
After some murmuring, "So we're still short something," Sylvie says a loud. "We need something here. Ideas?"
"Even if we can talk to the Hecatoncheires rationally," Cresiel reasons, "What do we tell it? What do we do to move beyond this? That's where I'm stuck. We don't have a way to finish this, only get it into position."
"Actually..." Sylvie hums and looks to Moore. "You became something akin to an abomination when you sought to become One. If so, I wonder what your curse would've been?"
"Interesting, but are you going somewhere with it?" Kaja asks shortly, "It's all parry, no thrust."
"Men," Sylvie rolls her eyes, "There's more to it than thrusting. That could be it. If it understood you too stood as that nightmare and pulled yourself away, it might grasp that change is better possible."
Moore instinctively rubs at his arm.
"He certainly didn't seem to want to stay his hand when we met last time." He says. "How do you propose I go about trying this? Simply... stand there and don't say anything? Or... should I add my story to that of the others?"
"This is a risk. It might discern the secrets of One and seek that power, or get up to other trouble. Let it see your ordeal, and that you found a way to overcome such a cursed state." Sylvie reasons slowly and carefully. "Drive into it that it's possible. Proof more than words, something that will hit home."
"You want to use Moore's trauma as bait?" Xandra says slowly, "Sylvie, I'm disappointed in you." Her tone says it all, one part scold and three parts pure, almost motherly let down.
"Can you think of a better idea to relate to this thing and hit it in the one place it will understand?" Sylvie rolls her eyes again. "Spare me the sanctimony. I wouldn't do this if it wasn't for a cause Moore's invested himself completely in."
"Is that something you're willing to do and use, Moore?" Cresiel turns away from all of that and to you. "Well?"
Moore holds a hand up at their discussion as he looks down.
"I knew when I went out there there was a risk." Moore says. "I had to... think about who I was, think about what I stood for... think about what I embodied."
A breath in and out. One he doesn't need to take.
"I knew that I would be able to overcome that trial." He says, quietly. "I knew it."
Because there is always hope.
"Because there is always hope." Moore says as he looks up, directly at Sylvie. "You could do it too, you know." A small grin after that. "But I know you're not as nice as I am. Yes, I'll do it."
"Good. Make sure to strip the memories of anything it shouldn't know about our motivations or true quest," Sylvie goes on, "And be ready to hit it with it. Do you remember how that form felt, how reality was? Put every memory and visceral feeling you have about it in there. The feeling is what will make it the most believable."
"So we have another weapon," Kaja muses now, "Do we have another?"
"Give me a moment," Sylvie closes her eyes and breathes slow. "To play up our ability to form bonds and unity would be a mistake. It seems to want that. The balors were a prime example of that. It doesn't work out for it." A bit of blonde hair is brushed away, "Too likely to enrage it in jealousy and frustration rather than relate to it."
"Instead," Sylvie goes on, "Have you ever been deeply betrayed, Moore? The sort of betrayal that hurts in your soul. That's something I suspect it will relate to."
"..." Moore looks down. "I don't... think any of you ever heard this story, and I don't have concrete memories of it myself, but... maybe it's time I finally learn about my own betrayal on Lifasa."
The other four look on blankly, but Sylvie just nods a bit. "How much did you learn?"
"Only the barest fragments." Moore says with a smile. "Lord Erathaol actually offered to tell me when I founded Hope's Landing and I told him it didn't matter. I learned... a bit, just tiny bits during my One ritual. But I don't know the truth. Maybe now's the time to finally face it, as much as I didn't think it was important to who I am now."
"It might be," Sylvie says, and with a serious look, "Can you live with that?"
"Whoever Moore was before Lifasa fell isn't who Moore is now." He says.
Because there is always hope.
"Because there is always hope, even for a traitor like that."
He looks up, up, towards the light of Chronias.
As if he's ready for the truth
So be it.
Red.
Blood splatters over your vision.
Fire.
No. Please.
They didn't die well.
The forest burned in your betrayal. The blood, the fire, the betrayal. Every tree bloodstained and ablaze, each an offering. You had to do it. They had to die. They had to suffer. That's what you remember telling yourself. They had to. It's how it had to be. It has to be this way.
It had to be this way.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
Mom. You remember your mother, her happy smile, the joy to which she sang to you. You remember how much you loved her music. You remember your father, his cheerful lute and harp that he played so well with your mother's songs.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
You don't want to remember. Your mind screams that you should turn around. This isn't worth it.
Do you go on?
As difficult as this is to finally see - he has to.
He has to continue on through this.
Because there is always hope.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to.
It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to. It had to.
Were you less than you were, you know your resolve would quail. Every inch of you doesn't want to remember. You understand why. The shame, the horror.
You became a monster. You gave in.
You failed yourself most of all.
It wasn't worth it. Death. Destruction. All for your gain. You remember the shrieking mad prayers, the desperate cries to anyone who would hear as your mind snapped under the guilt. It was trivial to snap your body under the same conditions, wasn't it?
You were a monster.
All because you wanted more. More power, more. Growth. Who cared that those people who you grew up with died? Who cared that you used them to advance yourself and betrayed?
You did. The sheer tidal wave of regret drowned you once, but not again. Not this time.
Even now, there's a hint of doubt.
Is he really a "savior" of Lifasa? Yes, of course he is.
Even now, he has to remember all of this and see it through.
But he's not who he was then.
He isn't that person anymore.
Because there is always hope, even for him.
It pours in. The negotiations. The betrayal. Lifasa's pain. Everything you did.
The crushing guilt.
It sits there like a great, giant stone.
I'm being somewhat vague on the details so you can fill in little background details as you want.
"It's funny." Moore says, quietly, as he remembers - still looking up, his voice far away to himself.
"I could've been one of the nine traitors. I was so close to it... but I couldn't." A breath in and out. "Even with everything I did, after doing so much evil for my own greed... something at the end of all of it, I still felt so guilty. I felt the pressure of what was coming, I felt the knowledge of what I'd done weigh so heavily... there was no saving someone like me, nothing I could do would absolve me. It's a wonder that at that time I didn't fall to Shar." His voice trembles here - he knows what the next part is.
"It's funny, I've died a few times... but only once was by my own hands." He says as he lets out air - that he doesn't need.
"Creation was better off without me, I thought then." The words are sad, mournful. "But I couldn't have known that step was going to take me where it did."
"You won a better life and second chance, and you haven't let go of it yet," Xandra comes to you, rests her hand on your shoulder.
"No one's perfect," Sylvie agrees, "No wonder you won't give up hope. It's what you need more than anything, isn't it?"
A shake of his head.
"I'm stronger now for what happened." Moore says. "I can only hope and pray that everyone that died is in a better place now."
A turn to Sylvie and a small smile and a nod. "I don't ever want anyone to repeat my footsteps." He says. "Everyone needs hope."
"Just be grateful you got a second chance," Cresiel advises you, "'Not all do."
"This self hate, this misery," Sylvie goes on, "Do you think you can use it in our task?"
"I know." Moore says. A glance to him. "I know you know that better than most, too."
A turn to Sylvie with a nod. "Yes. I can speak truthfully about the despair and hate that I held for myself and the world and how much it meant to finally find someone who would offer me a hand up out of my despair and hatred." He says, a smile forming slowly after that. "You can't save someone who doesn't want to be saved... but everyone can be saved."
"Hold onto that," Sylvie agrees, "I think we're better prepared now."
Moore nods with a smile.
"So let's go over this one more time..." Moore says.
Outline-
Buff Palodes as much as they can, send him into the Abyss
*Maybe do something to distract Shar?
Have him contact the Hecatoncheries
Have him convince it to go to Elysium
They have their messages from The Empty Knight, Will, (Synic? Sisatar?), and Moore both about his fall, his redemption, his almost turning into an abomination (without super important details)
Maybe Moore can talk to him after this himself?
Hope for the best
If there's anything I'm mechanically missing here OOC now is the time to tell me.
He's open to IC options about Shar here.
"As for Shar, how do we distract her, and do we?" Kaja asks, "We can go make a ruckus somewhere, but it's transparent."
"More," Cresiel favors, "I think we had the right of it earlier. We can't stop her if she's willing to devote herself to this, so it may be better to save our own resources in case she makes a play."
"It's possible that she may not want to risk an avatar of herself against the Hecatoncheires. If she actually believed she could kill it, she would've tried by now." Moore says. "So there's the entire possibility that what she said was just a bluff to get us to overthink this."
A shake of his head follows. "I agree with Cresiel though, if she does show up then we'll just have to deal with her. This isn't the only opportunity we may have." He says. A look around. "Is there anything else to discuss on this for now? If not, I'll go speak to Lady Mystra and see what's going on there."
"I think we're fine for now," Xandra concludes, "Go."
"I'll be back shortly." He says, and with the oomph of some magic, he heads to Dweomerheart!
This obviously includes the customary knock and everything first.
You meet with Mystra in a quiet library, little ceremony here. Just peace as she greets you, "Enter, Moore," she invites.
Moore enters and flies forward to give the appropriate greeting of a customary kneel.
"Lady Mystra." Moore says simply, his head bowed.
"Rise and sit," Mystra invites, "This is a serious matter."
Moore will rise and move over to do so.
"I can imagine what it is about." Moore says with a gesture around. "How may I be of aid to you?"
"Shar has gone too far," Mystra states, "War will be waged and soon. Your aid is requested."
Moore nods. "I assumed as such. We recently ran into her avatar when I was trying to find Mask." He says. "We encountered her new weapons, I'm happy to provide everything I saw that worked on them to you in advance of this."
"Do so," Mystra says immediately, "Tell me of Anurel and Enurel."
Moore nods, using some magic to show the actual battle against Shar's avatar while filling in the details himself.
"I don't know if it was because they were held by her avatar, but I was able to destroy them." Moore says, showing that particular part of the battle. "We thankfully had a method for healing what they did, but we won't have access to that here. I do think strong enough healing would work, and if it is necessary I have the power to bolster magical ability, so we can go that route if needed. Protecting oneself from bodily harm via magic did also seem to have an impact."
That's ICly explaining 'temporary HP seems to work fine'
"Troubling," Is the answer at last, "They are as fearsome as I feared, even as a mere shadow of themselves."
Moore nods. "I agree. I'm happy to help destroy them if she shows up with them, but I don't know how effective the Words of Creation will be in Shadow." He says.
"There will be resistance," Mystra agrees, "I am gathering allies for this attack. You and yours will be one of them."
"We have a bloody nose to return to her anyway." Moore says. "You will have our aid."
"Good." Mystra meets your gaze, "I prepare and gather strength. There will be at least a month unless Shar moves before then."
Moore nods. "We may do something that gets her attention soon. If it does I will inform you if it is to your benefit." Moore says. "In addition, if you'd like, we don't mind participating in some sort of attack on her holdings before this, please let me know."
Mystra considers, "A plan of your own?" she asks at last.
"There's a particular place I've been meaning to go for some time, but wanted to wait until we had obtained an... artifact that has proved to be a bit of a challenge." Moore explains. "But Shar had invited me, some time ago, to her Cathedral of Endless Night. I think a venture there would probably get her attention." He says.
I think it was Endless Night. Maybe it was Endless Shadows? I may also have the name entirely wrong.
You mean the one where she contacted you and taunted you with it?
Yes, specifically where Syllen's soul was supposed to be. This was a long time ago, admittedly.
"I don't need to tell you it's a trap," Mystra notes coolly, "But Shar would have it no other way."
"You don't." Moore says. "I'm going to see if I can finish this artifact before I go though. You don't happen to carry any favor with Grumbar, do you?" A small smile after that. "Nevermind, this is something I need to do on our own anyway."
"Alicia herself has dabbled in the creation of artifacts lately. Desperate times call for desperate measures," Mystra confesses openly. "I will loan suitable arms and armor to any who need them in the battle ahead."
"Ah, this one isn't exactly that. I've managed to find three pieces of Temman's Wheel." Moore explains. "The last piece is in an offspring of Grumbar's named Danaxmos. It's... a thing." A shake of his head. "It isn't something you should be burdened with. It wouldn't be right for us to take from your stock, Celestia will provide us what we need." He says. "But if we find something lacking, I will ask it of you." He says.
"I do not expect either you or Alicia's to need it," Mystra confesses, "Newly risen or not, both of yours are well girded."
"We've had many people willing to help." Moore says. "But please let me know should you require anything else. If you wish for the Empty Knight to return here to aid you, I am certain they would."
"For now I am sufficient," Mystra declares, "What of yours? Do they prosper?"
"I've had my hands full dealing with a great many things." Moore admits. "They do, in spite of Shar and the other's meddling in things. But hopefully... when we are successful in our current mission that will send a message across Creation about the merits of hope." A smile follows that statement. "Everyone can be saved, who is willing."
"Brave and noble," Mystra says, "Though it acknowledges the difference between can and will."
"Sometimes there's a blurred line there." Moore says, wondering if Erathaol thought he would be willing to be saved after his journey through the Lost Realm.
A shake of his head. "Please let me know what other assistance I can offer you, Lady Mystra." A bow of his head after that. "You were an ally to me even before I became who I am, and I intend to ensure our bonds stay strong."
"For now, prepare," Mystra says, "Times grow ever more turbulent. We cannot rest now, not as things are, unless we wish to accept destruction."
Moore nods. "Very well. By your leave." He says.
Assuming he's allowed, he will return to fill in the others!
Give me a d100 real quick.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 2, total 2[/blockquote]
As you turn to go, "Moore," Mystra says, "Did something happen to you?"
"Many things." Moore says with a smile. "I had to face a bit of my past in order to move forward."
"It shows," Mystra states plainly.
Moore smiles. "I'm not very good at hiding my true feelings. It was for the better that this happened." He says. "The truth is always the best option."
"Is it?" Mystra muses on that, "The truth is a dangerous thing, it can kill as surely as fire, plague or sword."
"You are very correct about that." Moore says. "But a life based on lies is not a life worth living."
"A wise path to walk," Mystra agrees, "Go on and endure, Moore. Great war comes."
Moore nods and will return!
Going to talk to them about that? Besides that, anything else to do before getting this show on the road?
Yes and no. Well, no, that's not true.
He's going to use his contact knowledge spell to ask it if there's anything he's missing regarding his plan.
Okay, go ahead and phrase your first question, we'll knock that out first.
'Given everything I know about our current plan, am I missing anything that would add to our success that is reasonable for us to do?'
Assuming 'yes'
'What is one thing I am missing?'
Yes is indeed the answer to the first. To the second?
'Demon agents of other demon lords secretly report on the Hecatoncheires, and many do not want him to do anything but stay where he is.'
Maybe The Adversary would know something about them, despite being a daemon lord? He'll have to do some digging... good thing he has the spell that can ask the question!
Meanwhile, his avatar is explaining the questions and answers to the others, in case they have any questions that he should ask.
3/18
'What would add the most success to our plan?'
'A moment of true happiness.'
'Besides Shar, what is the most likely opposition to our plan?'
'Unknown.'
'What is the most known opposition to our plan that I don't currently know?'
'The servants of Orcus.'
Of course it'd be him.
'What is the next most likely opposition that is known?'
As a reminder he's feeding these questions and answers to the others through his avatar so if they think of anything good to ask let me know please. :)
As they listen Xandra speaks up, "What servants of Orcus?"
Meanwhile you get a simple answer: 'The Knight of the Pale Mother.'
'Who is the strongest of the servants of Orcus that can be identified?'
'The Cursed Wretch.'
They're going to have to involve some others for this...
'Who would be the best source of information on how to mitigate Orcus' followers who would be willing to provide it?'
8/18
'Domiel.'
'Who would be the best source of information to mitigate Zquujaj who would be willing to provide it?'
I am just assuming that Moore knows his name and it isn't hidden, but if it is then I will reline.
It's not that hidden, no.
'Guhl.'
'Besides Orcus' followers and Zquujaj, is there any other known interference we should try and mitigate in some fashion?'
10/18
'Yes, other demon lords and princes.'
This may be an even greater involvement than he originally thought...
'What is one question I need to find the answer to to give us the greatest added chance of success?'
'Unknown.'
Meanwhile as they all listen, "Narrow it," Sylvie suggests, "It's hitting on someone's protections now I suspect."
'What is one question I can ask that is known that will add the best chance of success to our current information?'
'Where can you find Guhl.'
Well, he may as well ask since he has the spell available.
'Where can I find Guhl?'
'The Lost Fortress of Amanar.'
'Is there anything I need to know about that place that I wouldn't otherwise uncover in a cursory investigation of it before we try and go there?'
13/18
'It is not as lost as the name suggests.'
He's pretty sure Medi answers these questions sometimes.
"Anything else we want to know?" Moore's avatars asks the others.
"At the moment, I think we're sufficiently informed," Sylvie decides, "We have enough to work on."
Moore dismisses the spell!
Take 10 on K:P for 119 for Guhl as well as The Lost Fortress of Amanar.
I'll figure this out later but it looks like the actual right number is 115 and not 119.
Guhl is said to be an escaped, unique demon from the Abyss. A vagabond said to be wise and apathetic to most things, but he knows things. In reality you know he's a grandchild of a demon lord, sometimes claimed to be Graz'zt (generally considered false by the wise), Malcanthet (possible), Pazuzu (unlikely but not impossible) or Zuggtmoy (highly improbable but persistent). Regardless of the truth, he's not divine but he is powerful.
The Lost Fortress was found ages ago. It's now a part of the Crawling City, or it was until an unknown circumstance blasted it into the Astral. Fortunately for it they came on the githyanki, who so helpfully evicted most of the daemons and took it for themselves. It's a fortress on the Astral now, home to a few groups of githyankis.
"So, what are our options for talking to this Guhl person?" Moore asks. "Should we just go directly to Vlaakith on this, or try something more subtle? I mean... she'll know regardless if we try and be subtle."
"Cut the middle man out and contact him," Kaja says immediately, "We can do that with a bare effort of will now. Why involve the gith if we don't have to?"
"If it's that easy," Xandra notes, "I do not foresee this being that simple."
"I always assume things will be harder than we want them to be." Moore says.
Regardless...
'Guhl. My name is Moore, are you able to speak with me like this?'
To be clear since it matters here, going for vanilla telepathy?
Yes.
'Yes.'
'Are you a prisoner there? I have business with you.'
'No. I am not a prisoner.'
'I need to speak to you regarding Zquujaj.'
He may as well see where that gets him.
'I'm listening.'
'We are performing an operation on the Abyss that we believe will have his interference. Your name came up as someone who could best mitigate that. I can explain more as you'd like, but I'd like to know what you'd want to be compensated for the information.'
Diplo you said something right.
Take 10 for 136 145, math was wrong
'You will do the following: Gather 66 bottles of fine wine and pour them out onto the ground so that they are wasted. The bottles will be broken on this ground and the glass left to lie there.'
That's... a rather specific request.
Take 10 for K:A for 119 (yes actually this time), and 114 for Spellcraft - is there some relevance to this? Maybe Numerology?
'Does it matter where this is done?'
Yes. The 66 numerology is obviously Abyssal. Further, this is a symbol of waste and flagrantly so. Like a rich man throwing away food while the thousands of peasants who serve him starve. To destroy something for nothing, only because you care to and so that others can't have it.
'You will do it on any Prime world.'
'Very well.'
He dispatches his avatar to Lifasa in some secluded place where no one would possibly see it to perform this.
Nothing in this agreement said he can't just create the wine from nothing to perform it!
Spellcraft.
Take 10 for 114.
You can tell as you set up it's a ritual - it's going to summon something, you expect.
Will this even work on Lifasa? It probably won't.
But even if it does, he shouldn't be summoning something untoward there.
Take 10 again for 114 on spellcraft - any idea what it'll summon?
Guhl, most likely.
Moore will invite at least Sylvie along for this.
I think they all 'have' Avatars, so he will invite Sylvie's along to make sure there are no shenanigans. Also in case she thinks this is a Bad Idea.
"To answer your question, of course it's a bad idea. You're summoning a demon, Moore." Sylvie explains, arms crossed and expression unamused. "I've summoned demons before. It's not worth it. Rather than do it right away, let's ask ourselves why Guhl wants to be summoned."
"He said he wasn't a prisoner, but I suppose it could be a lie." He says. "Assuming that's the case then this would get him out. But... that seems strange, doesn't it? If he's a prisoner, wouldn't his cell or wherever he is be warded to prevent this from happening? So what other possibility is there?"
"A sufficiently powerful caster might overcome his prison," Sylvie reasons, "Or it's malicious and whomever holds him will notice and assume we're cooperating with him."
"Well, we have the option of talking to the gith about this." Moore says. "Or simply warding this place, summoning him and subduing him if there's a problem."
"None of these ideas fill me with glee," Sylvie admits, "Do what you want here, but if it's all the same, I'm not in the mood to argue with Vlaakith's lapdogs."
"Well, we might have to deal with them if we free him." Moore says. "But sometimes it's better to ask for forgiveness then permission."
Plan will be to create the wine and do the ritual, then activate their Teleport Blocker once it completes so he can't just run off.
Actually, we'll put a few walls of force up around the area too so he'd have to spend some time breaking those down if he wants to get out. Let's say 5 sets of cubes of Walls of Force around the ritual site.
If Sylvie has another suggestion we'll use it but that seems like it'll work.
Seems like a plan. Spellcraft again.
Take 10 for 114
The ritual works.
The creature that appears is a man. Shaped like an average one, dressed in plain, dull gray clothes. It has no face, only smooth flesh with perverse writing in Abyssal all over where his face should be. He just stands there, not a word spoken once he appears.
"I expected something more like a demon and less like an ultroloth," Sylvie speaks aloud, "But you're Guhl."
Moore, a moment of your time, if you have it.
Go ahead.
"I'm Moore. Nice to meet you." He says. "What was the purpose of this?"
There is some evidence Shar works against you in Grumbar's court. It's far from certain, but it is possible.
'To meet you.' The answer is simple and to the point, spoken in your minds.
Sylvie slowly regards him, but lets you talk.
That would be one explanation as to why he stonewalled- ah, excuse me, why he was so stubborn about the matter... If I hear anything contrary to this or otherwise I will inform you.
'Very well.'
A bow is offered. 'I am Moore of Celestia. I am aware that may put me at a disadvantage, but you've been honest so far so I will be honest in return. If there's something you want to know I'll share it. I'm sure you may be curious as to why I'd even find myself dealing with the Pale Mother and her ilk.'
He projects this into his and Sylie's mind both, also projecting his answers to her.
That was a terrible turn of phrase.
Beware of one called Asani, she is one of Shar's and may be behind this. Capture her if you come on her if at all possible.
'Not really.' The answer is disinterested. 'What do you seek from me?'
Sorry! Will do, if we come across her I'll let you know.
'We are performing an operation that will cause some upheaval on the Abyss. We want to solve the problem of the Hecatoncheires, and I've been told that Orcus, among the Pale Mother's followers will likely interfere. Whatever you can tell us about them would be compensated. Zquujaj is the one I believe you may have the most information on.'
'I can speak of him.' Bland agreement, '50,000 gold coins of standard denomination. Toss them into a volcano's lava well within and leave.'
'It will be done.' Moore says. 'Please share what you know. If you need the payment first that can be arranged.'
'Not until it's done. I'll wait.' The answer is bland as well, voice bored and disinterested in your mind.
Meanwhile, the real Moore will magic up a the bag of money and pick a random plane with a volcano on it (Fire?) and do as has been requested.
This is done easily enough.
'Done.' Moore says, as he waits patiently.
'Zquujaj serves Pale Night,' Is the answer, 'What details do you want to know?'
'Why would he care at all about the Hecatoncheires?' Moore asks. 'It seems like that's more of a hinderance to them than anything. Why would they intervene if they found out there was something happening to remove it from the Abyss?'
'The answer is unclear, but I suspect Pale Night.' Is his reply, 'Who else could? He serves her and more importantly, serves her interests.' He stands there, motionless. 'I've heard he said that he will brook no rivals.'
Moore nods. 'Very well. Regardless, please tell me what you know about Zquujaj's tactics, then, or how he might go about trying to be an interference.'
'Zquujaj is a commander in battle and rallies forces to himself, while he inspires a rage in all the demons who follow him. His orders are strong and the demons listen, even when enraged. Few forces can handle demons like that and he often crushes his opponents under these tactics.'
Hm, not unlike himself, but taken to a different extreme.
'In that case, if we can't avoid a battle, we should do something that disrupts them as much as possible? Since he'll be commanding them, we have to assume that the demons will all be a lot more coordinated than normal.'
'That's up to you and your abilities,' Is the answer, 'I don't know what you can do.'
Hm, but he isn't really getting anything useful out of him...
To Sylvie alone, 'I'm sure he has more useful information than this, but he seems to be the type that's only going to answer specific things.'
'Exactly. You need the right key to open the door with him,' Sylvie sends back. 'So be direct and guide the answers.'
That Wit spell would come in handy right now...
'We have most of our bases covered, but honestly we're trying to avoid a fight entirely. What are some specifics we could use to try and avoid a confrontation with him, or some way to avoid him interfering with us?'
'Don't let him know you're doing whatever ti is. Failing that, kill him.' The answer is plain, 'That will keep him out of your hair. Unless you can convince him otherwise, he's a little more rational than the typical demon warlord.'
'All right. Should we get drawn into a battle, assuming we have vast magic and martial skill, enough to potentially fight him, would he even allow us to get close to him? Or would he be in the back, commanding?'
'He prefers to lead, but is not foolish. He will step back if he feels it a proper tactic.' Is the answer after a moment, 'He's adaptable, and not so bloodlusted that he won't retreat or us tactics better suited to a devil.'
Moore nods. They can at least show that they aren't going to be mowed over and he'd probably back off.
'Sylvie, any ideas on other questions to ask?'
'A few,' Sylvie admits, 'Done with yours then?'
'I'm not that good at this.' Moore admits. 'Go ahead.'
Sylvie considers a few moments before, "Assume you have to face Zquujaj. How would you fight him?"
The answer comes right away. 'I wouldn't. I'd attempt to make others fight that battle and if impossible, run.'
"Alright," Sylvie agrees, slowly pacing, "And if you couldn't run?"
'Beg for my life or die.' The answer is bored, disinterested. 'Likely die.'
A non committal noise of consideration before, "Who could defeat Zquujaj, then?"
'A demon lord or prince. A deity.' The answer comes back, 'Moore is one.'
Just helpful enough to fulfill his word while disinterested enough to be unhelpful. Let me cleave to the heart of this.
Sylvie smiles as a sense of her spreads. She walks right up to him, "Like me?" she asks, "I grow tired of this. Will you beg for your lie or stand here and die?" Slowly she cracks her knuckles, "Which will it be?"
> roll 1d20+125 (+37 factotum, +15 divine insight) intimidate Sylvie
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+125 (+37 factotum, +15 divine insight) intimidate Sylvie --> [ 1d20=1 ]{126}
He can't beat the check to resist intimidation.
A single step back. A frozen moment before his back hits one of the unseen walls of force you erected. Sylvie slowly matches that step, "Last chance, demon. You disrespected Moore. That's called blasphemy, you disgusting little wretch."
A hiss - like hot air that escapes from a kettle. He steps back as far as he can, back flush against the wall of force.
"Now." Sylvie concludes, another step forward, fist raised. "You won't reform when I'm done with you. I'm perfectly able to grant you oblivion here, demon spawn, no matter how tenuous your connection is to this realm."
> roll 1d20+110 (+37 factotum) bluff Sylvie
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+110 (+37 factotum) bluff Sylvie --> [ 1d20=9 ]{119}
His Sense Motive can't beat that.
Another hiss. The sound of so many little feet, as if all stomping down at once.
'Mercy! Mercy!'
Moore's face is as blank as Guhl's - he has complete faith in how she's approaching this, even if his instinct is to say something.
"Good. Lower your will," Sylvie's voice says, "I'm going to help myself to what we need to know. Do so and you continue to exist after this." Her voice is sweet, "You can go back to whatever vile, petty little entertainments you like, demon."
Sylvie reaches out, a hand on his head. She focuses, silent as the demon lets out a third hiss. Then with a scowl she picks him up as he goes limp, "Monster," she growls, before he simply vanishes - a banishment from divine will.
"I have a feeling the spell may have simply identified the lowest fruit available to it." Moore says, not intent on chastising her for her actions. "Anything useful to us?"
"Some." Sylvie says, "To answer a few questions, he doesn't know who is grandsire is. His mother enjoyed confusing him about it, but what do you expect from demons?" A look of disgust as she dusts her hands off, "As far as he understands it, he just finds information. He's a savant and has some supernatural talent that attracts him to it. He's mainly ruled by the fact he's mentally broken, his mother ruined his ability to feel anything but apathy as a result of extreme emotional torture."
That gets a pause, "It reminds me as poorly as I did, I'm still far from the worst mother out there."
Going on from that, "Do as little as possible, drift through, satisfy those vile urges he feels. What he does to women as a displacement for what his mother did to him isn't worth mentioning, but with his will down, I left some measures against that. His mind will function much more like a mortal's now. He may even make something of himself, and if he insists on reverting to form, he'll regret it."
Then with a grimace, "But enough of him. As far as Zquujaj, he's learned solid lore. He told us the truth about his tactics at least. Short version - distract him with some devils and hit him so fast and hard that he can't turn the tide or retreat. Of course..." A moment for will to spread, privacy. "I'd rather not fight him considering he's tied to the Pale Mother. At least not until all of this is settled. So in a pinch a devil distraction will more than do."
Moore nods. "I don't like the idea, but we can ask Gathgorian or Bel to help us if we... must." A small sigh at that. "Actually, Bel may be a good choice, he probably doesn't need to be given much of a reason to get some revenge there, if the legends are all true. Regardless..."
His divine will cleans up the mess of bottles and glass.
"Perhaps we'll see Guhl walk into Hope's Landing someday, intent on being a better person." A small smile. "We still have more planning to do, so let's get back."
Next step will be to speak to Domiel w/r/t Orcus.
"That's my idea, call in a favor with Bel. I hate it too, but if we -have- to cooperate with them on this, we may as well use it to our advantage." Sylvie says, "We don't let him know it's about a divine seed, though. We don't have to be that foolishly transparent."
Ready to move on now? Just a quick check in case Sylvie's reply changed anything.
Yep, he'll reach out to Bel after talking to Domiel.
Okay go ahead and do or elaborate how you're getting in touch with Domiel and I'll roll with it.
Lord Domiel, we have an operation we are currently planning that we believe Orcus and his followers, most notably The Cursed Wretch may try and hinder. May I speak to you about this?
A soft voice, a reflective one. As if someone at peace and pondering a great mystery.
'You may. I listen, Moore.'
'We seek to solve the conundrum of the Hectatoncheires.' Moore begins. 'In doing so and planning for this operation, we believe Orcus may try and interfere with us. My divinations pointed us in your direction, either for the most sound advice on how to mitigate that potentiality or possibly more. I can explain the plan we have if you believe it may help.'
'Please explain,' Is the answer, 'This feels as the will of Celestia.'
'We have one known as the Grand Master. He has taken a Vow of Peace, and through him, we wish to enact the will of Celestia and the Archangels of Elysium. Our goal is such that he will parley with the Hecatoncheires and lead it to Elysium. There, we will be waiting - with memories of those who have been saved, with memories of those who have been betrayed and sought to overcome it, and with memories of one who touched the form of an abomination and yet still lives in service to Good.'
He pauses here a moment, as if going over his own plan again.
'It is there that I believe the Hecatoncheires will be able to see the light of hope in itself and for itself, and on that moment a great wrong of Creation will be righted. What it chooses to do after that will be up to it.'
Another pause.
'It is in this first action with the Grand Master that we believe Shar to interfere - should she, we will be on hand to handle her. We cannot predict what those in the Abyss may do, but our divinations suggested interference form Orcus' lot, as well as the Knight of the Pale Mother. We will be... making a request of those familiar with those demons to distract them from our operation in tandem with whatever you may provide us about Orcus.'
'Orcus hates, but he is also defined by his sloth. It takes a great deal to rouse him.' Domiel begins, 'He will rely on minions unless his anger is kindled. The best and most direct way to deal with him is to ensure he doesn't reach that level of anger. Do not respond overly hard, and preferably when his ire is directed elsewhere.'
'Do you have any information about one of his followers - The Cursed Wretch? Our divinations suggest that was the strongest of those who may hinder our plan.'
'Yes,' Is the straightforward answer. 'Do you know how he may intervene?'
'I do not have many specifics at present, but my guess was they'd try and attack the Grand Master in some fashion, or simply ruin our attempts to try and get the Hecatoncheires off of the Abyss.'
'A symbol of righteous sacrifice will keep him at bay,' Domiel says, 'Do you have such a thing?'
'I do not think we do.' Moore says. 'It wouldn't be difficult to obtain one, likely from Illmater or something similar for the Grand Master to carry on themselves if needed.'
'That will do, but it must be one freely given in that case.'
'We can obtain one.' Moore says. 'I was also considering speaking to Lady Selune to see if she may be able to offer us aid against Shar's interference or potential interference.'
'Selune is always interested in such matters, but she does remember the favors owed to her.'
'I'm not too concerned of being indebted to her.' Moore says with a smile - not that Domiel can see it. 'I have some further work to do, thank you for your wisdom.'
With that done, now what?
He may as well get the more disagreeable portion of it out of the way first...
He sighs and rubs his forehead, then steels himself for this. He will link Sylvie into the conversation as well as the others, just in case.
Bel. I need to speak to you about an operation we will be performing on the Abyss.
Speak.
A single word, but you can feel the simmering anger, unhidden and like a pit of lava that bubbles in the fires of the earth.
Moore's not got time for this showmanship.
We believe that Zquujaj will be interfering with our operation. The long and short of it is I am asking for a favor for you to assault him in some capacity so he doesn't interfere with us.
In return?
Assuredly you have something in mind that we could more easily help you with than what you have available.
Diplomacy check, -45 penalty.
Take 10 for 100. Don't try and fuck with me, Bel!
Give me a Sense Motive check as well.
Take 10 for 92.
When and where?
It will be soon, likely a day or two. The place we will be going is Brolen, most likely.
If you have something in mind you want us to do, please feel free to state it, otherwise you can simply consider it a favor owed.
I will, worm.
Bel, as much as you and I may not see eye-to-eye on things, I can at least respect what you're good at.
He can stew on that for a while.
Now with that unpleasantry...
Lady Selune, may I have a moment of your time? I warn you, this is about a subject neither one of us will find terribly pleasant.
You may speak, Moore.
We will be performing an operation soon on the Abyss regarding the Hecatoncheires. I believe Shar will try and meddle with it, and I was hoping that I might beg a favor of you to aid us if she chooses to do so.
You act as if it is not right and just to oppose Shar.
I am not so naive as to not believe opposing her in this may escalate things further.
Good. Shar will fall. Let her come
Consider it a favor owed to you.
Okay, the only other thing on our list is to get statements from a few people about being saved for magical recording. We can do that off screen if you want.
I'd want one from The Empty Knight, Sylvie, and then Moore will do one for himself.
Sure, going to guide them at all or just let them say whatever?
He will ask them all to provide a 'moment of pure happiness' they've felt since having hope returned to them, but other than that no.
Give me a Charisma check related to that.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+64 : 13 + 64, total 77[/blockquote]
How are you storing or recording them, by the way? Forgot to ask.
You know, that's a good question. Is there any reason that Moore won't just be able to remember this exactly and be able to re-create it with Major Image? I assume his divine memory won't have much trouble with that, and I'd think he can divine will up the images / auditory elements of these later.
Unless it's suggested to get a magic item to do it because Reasons, which he can also just... do.
It's really up to you, but Sylvie would suggest an item to limit any expressions of divine will for obvious reasons. No sense adding any more possible failure points.
Sure. We can have three... I don't know, 'Stones of Remembrance' created that will, when activated:
Copy the likeness of the holder, via Major Image
Copy whatever they say, via Major Image
Then they can be activated with a different command to 'play' the message.
If we want to be fancy, each one of them can be activated with a different second word, so they can all be used individually.
If you assume an item like that is the following:
3 * 5 (Level of spell, CL required), * (1800 * 2) (two command words) / 5 (for 1/day use) comes out to 10,800, which is a pittance and they can just magic up the required cost here. YMMV if you'd allow two different command word activations, though. (
That's fine with me.
Then let's get one for each of the three.
If they need time he can go do his Illmater stuff while they consider it.
Sure, what's your set up therE?
'It has to be given freely', so he may as well just... ask for one, unless by asking that means it isn't given freely?
Either way he'd ask Illmater. :)
Go for it.
Lord Illmater, the wisdom of Celestia has pointed me in your direction. I am need of a holy symbol of yours, given freely.
If you are willing to give it freely, then I would wish to return the favor to you and yours.
There is no hesitation. A simple wood engraving of a broken man appears before you.
'The world of Lifasa lives thanks to you and your allies, Moore. That is enough.'
Nonetheless, we stand ever ready to aid you. Thank you.
Moore dips down to pick it up.
Okay, I think we have all of the prep setup, we'll go over everything one more time and make sure we have everything we can have checked off.
Okay, I'd rather start this fresh next week - it's going to be a big operation. Anything to line up or any notes to make before this one begins?
This is just the outline:
Buff Grand Master as much as they can, send him into the Abyss. He will carry Illmater's holy symbol with him or on him. (If Xandra or Sylvie believe that buffing Grand Master with their magic will make things worse then they'll just forego this and trust that he can carry the day on his own.)
*At the same time, send Bel to attack.
*Selune will help if Shar decides to interfere.
Have him contact the Hecatoncheries, try and convince it to go to Elysium with the promise that a better future for it awaits it there.
They have their messages from The Empty Knight, Sylvie and Moore there with the stones, they can activate them each remotely.
After that, Moore will step in to speak to it if it is willing.
Okay, plan is a go. We'll begin with your boost list for the Grand Master. Lay that out for what you and everyone is going to give him.
Inspire Competence
Inspire Heroics
Inspire Greatness (+18 morale bonus to saves and +18 dodge to AC)
Inspire Excellence (Strength, Constitution, Dexterity, Intellect, Wisdom, Charisma)
Song of Fortune
---------- All the above last for 10 minutes
Fortunate Fate (CL 39)
Jetina's Deathlessness (CL 39)
Surge of Hope (CL 35) (35m)
Celestial Valor (CL 39) (39m)
Epic Mage Armor (CL24)
Mind Blank (CL17)
Afina's Perfect Sight (CL27)
Improvisation (CL 35)
Sublime Revelry (CL39)
Energy Immunity (All)
Moore's Marvelous Invisibility (CL35)
+22 morale bonus to skill checks
+4 morale bonus on attacks, ability checks
+16 competence to all stats for 10 minutes
+8 sacred vs fear and emotion effects that would sap the will to fight, +4 sacred to attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, armor class and saving throws, weapons count as holy
+20 to armor class
+25 competence bonus to Perception, blindsight 200 ft
Immune to negative energy, energy drain, ability damage, ability drain, poison, paralysis and stunning. Half damage is converted to nonlethal damage
Half damage from physical and ranged attacks.
Effects of Mind Blank
Energy Immunity to Fire, Cold, Acid, Sonic, Lightning
*Floating Pool of 70 luck points that can be used for skills, saves, ability checks.
*Invisibility that he can dismiss when he wants to, overcomes True Seeing.
Total bonuses:
HP: 72+Con modifier (after the +16 competence bonus) temp HP (since I don't know his stats I don't know how much this is, but it should be a hefty amount)
AC: 50
Skills: 30 (Perception is 55)
Saves: 30
Anything not listed with a duration has one of several hours, so isn't worth mentioning.
Isn't Improv a personal/you spell?
Sorry, should've specified. He's using Wish to use a higher level version to give to him.
That's fine.
Thus it's time. All of you are gathered and ready as...
Go ahead and set up how you plan to kick this off and send him over, and anything else immediately done.
He will send affirmations to both Bel and Selune that his operation is beginning and for them to please act accordingly.
Right outside of Hope's Landing he stands, with all his friends and comrades, in the bright light of Chronias. "We will be waiting for you in Elysium." Moore says to the Grand Master. "We will have a gate open for you and it - that is the will of Celestia today."
He does add silent prayer to Tymora - she's watched over him more times than he can count, and right now he does need just a little bit of luck for this to work out.
Moore bows again to the Grand Master. "I have every hope that this will work. May your path forward be as safe as it can be." He says.
With that, he opens a Gate as close to the lair on Brolen as he can muster.
The lair? Do you mean where you fought the Hecatoncheires?
Ideally, yes.
You manage to get fairly close, the portal opened as desired.
The Grand Master regards you before, "I will serve as far as Celestia takes me." Then he's gone, on through.
"All right. It's off to Elysium. I know you all want to be there, but in this, I think I need to go alone." Moore says. "I think the less divine beings, the better."
"For once you're right," Sylvie agrees, "Good luck, Moore."
"Don't die," Cresiel adds, "Win."
He doesn't need to say anything, he simply nods to all of them and then will use his divine will to plane shift himself to Elysium.
He doesn't need to specify where on Elysium - he knows that the High One - no, the plane of Elysium itself will guide him where he needs to go. Where he needs to be, today.
Because there is always hope.
You appear in a lush green field. Sunny, warm, bright. A perfect spring day, flowers wild with life and everything bursting with beautiful colors.
Moore takes the opportunity to place the stones down, next to each other.
He then will move away - north, a good amount such that, should everything go as planned, he isn't in immediate sight.
The gate - the portal that will lead there...
Once he's moved far enough away - a mile should do the trick, he can still activate the stones from there with his voice, he knees down and places a hand onto the grass, onto the very ground itself.
"Elysium, I speak to you in the name of Hope." Moore says. "There will be two who will come this day - one seeking to guide one in need of hope, and the other who does not realize today will change them forever. I ask that you open your doors to them both so that one may be saved, and for Creation to be a better one."
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+63 : 4 + 63, total 67[/blockquote]
That is a charisma check to be clear
There's no response that you can discern, at least.
There never is, but he knows in his heart what will happen.
With that, he sits down to wait - there is nothing to do but that at this point.
He knows it will all work out.
Because there is always hope.
Give me 5d100, each rolled separately.
[13:06] <Nephrite> roll 5#1d100
[13:06] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 5#1d100 --> [ 1d100=62 ]{62}, [ 1d100=7 ]{7}, [ 1d100=42 ]{42}, [ 1d100=38 ]{38}, [ 1d100=74 ]{74}
If there was ever a time I actually wanted to see a 7, it would be now, actually.
How long are you going to give if no word comes back or nothing seems to happen?
At least a day - he's pretty sure he'll have some sort of notice of at least pass or fail on the operation.
Give me three checks, you want high here. First is 1d100+5, second is 1d100+25 and the third is 1d100+30.
[14:21] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d100+5 --> [ 1d100=74 ]{79}
[14:21] <Nephrite> roll 1d100+25
[14:21] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d100+25 --> [ 1d100=21 ]{46}
[14:21] <Nephrite> roll 1d100+30
[14:21] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d100+30 --> [ 1d100=60 ]{90}
Some time passes - until slowly, a blood red portal begins to open.
Moore simply waits.
Now is not yet the time to do anything, so he keeps an eye on this from a mile away.
Because there is always hope.
The Grand Master, stumbles through, bloodied all over. He coughs several times, on one knee. Great, gasping gulps of air follow as he slowly recovers.
The portal stays open.
Moore, under normal circumstances, would fly to his aid.
But right now, he has to stay where he is.
'You do not need me to tell you of your success.' Moore sends to him. 'I am a little over a mile north of where you are now out of line of sight of who is following you. I would come to your aid to heal you, but right now... you know above all else why I cannot. Use the holy wisdom of Celestia to guide what you should do now - I trust in its wisdom. Elysium will protect you, I have no doubt in my mind.'
Because there is always hope.
Charisma check.
[21:10] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+63 Charisma check
[21:10] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d20+63 Charisma check --> [ 1d20=18 ]{81}
'The Hecatoncheires,' The Grand Master begins, words in your mind words of warning. 'It may follow, but it is dreadful and wroth.'
'Then that is what the will of Celestia will have me face today.' Is his response. 'Get to safety.'
Wounded and hobbling, the Grand Master is able to do just that, fleeing at rapid speed.
Going to do anything or just wait and see?
He will continue to wait a mile away and watch the portal.
The portal lets out a great burst of steaming air. Air that sets fire to the grass around it, flames erupt all about. Heat waves come forth and clouds form not high above the ground. From the comes not rain, but little sharp little daggers and knives that plunge into the ground.
Not unexpected. Moore will continue to wait.
There is nothing to do but continue to do so - it must be on Elysium for there to be any chance of this working.
Because there is always hope.
The gate opens wider - the ruined realm is seen. A graveyard of steel and broken weapons. Bones litter beneath them, as if ivory given in tribute to violence.
The ground shakes even from this far away.
The Hecatoncheires comes before the portal. You can only see a little of it, the portal simply not enough to see such a massive creature.
He continues to wait.
Authority of Patience, give him strength today.
Authority of Hope, give him wisdom today.
Because there is always hope.
A sound, a roar mixed with metal on metal. Raw fury, raw anger, raw frustration. It comes from the Hecatoncheires, but it is no closer to coming through the portal.
Perhaps it's time, then.
He says the command word for the Empty Knight's recording stone - it should be enough to say it from far away without any divine power.
From over a mile? I'm not the most strict about things like that, and I don't see a range listed on the SRD as it is, but that makes me head tilt.
Sorry, I assumed that, because of his divinity, he could make his voice heard from a mile away and therefore activate the stone with it. Is that wrong? That had been my interpretation of the whole 'bardic musics go a mile' thing.
Turns out there's no range requirement on command words that I can find. Go figure.
The stone activates.
Do the stones have any special properties besides being stones?
I imagine we tried to make them a little more resilient than an average stone given what we were dealing with, but other than that no.
The roar is loud as the Hecatoncheires reaches one huge hand through the portal. From it a massive sword comes, launched like a javelin. It's going right at the stone. The portal bulges from this, cracks appearing in the air around it, tracing back to the portal.
Chance to react if you want.
Moore simply waits.
If it destroys the stone, then it destroys it. Its purpose was to play the recording, so that task is finished.
The Hecatoncheires has to come through of its own volition. If these words don't reach it to convince it, then they will simply have to find another way.
Because there is always hope.
Because there is always hope.
Still, he prays for wisdom.
Holy Mountain, give me the hope I need for this to work.
The sword shatters the stone, cutting through it and sending shards of it in all directions. Then hands - so many hands - grip the portal and begin to tear. Cracks spread as it opens wider, as if reality itself is being torn open.
Moore continues to sit there.
The Archangels have not come to stop it, he has not been told to intervene. Because there is always hope.
That is because this is how things must go. There was only one way for this to ever work. Because there is always hope.
The Hecatoncheires must come to Elysium. Because there is always hope.
Thus, Moore continues to sit and watch from the distance - he must wait. Because there is always hope.
He prays with all his strength for hope for the Hecatoncheires.
There is a horrible noise.
A rip that expands a hundred times over. From earth to sky a massive rend in reality has been torn. The Hecatoncheires looms now, fully visible. A roar of the deepest, most furious rage fills the air, clearly heard by you.
He can't stop now.
He would activate Sylvie's stone, but... maybe he needs to go first.
Thus, he speaks the command word for his own stone.
He hopes his words can reach it.
I figure this is my time to shine, so just let me know if anything stops that from happening.
Go for it, I'll adjudicate.
The words come from the stone - Moore's words. He knew he had to put into this his heart and soul and the truth.
'Hecatoncheires, my name is Moore. You hate me because of my divinity - as is your right as a creature of Creation.
Please, I implore you to listen for just a moment. Listen to me as someone who has betrayed others, and who was cast out of Creation as an abomination myself.
I know the pain of being betrayed - I know the rage you feel towards everything around you. I know it because I betrayed others and know the pain I brought upon them.
I know the pain of being betrayed, because I betrayed myself. I was betrayed by myself. I know only hatred, sorrow and loss.
I know the pain of being an abomination, because I became one - I know what it is like to see the world as W R O N G. I saw that misery. I saw that loneliness.
I know the pain you suffer.
I beg you, please, see through your rage. See through your hatred.
I know the pain of not believing in hope.
You can find it too. If you let me help you, you will find true happiness - that which you've been denied for so long.
I found true happiness in the moment I saw the hope Creation has. I found true happiness when I was able to finally see clearly what I had missed. When I finally saw the light of hope in my soul.
Because there is always hope.
Because there is always hope.
Because there is always hope.
You have already taken a step. You stand in the place where you belong. For yourself and for your own hope.
Let today be the day you rise.'
Moore only prays the message gets through to it.
Give me a Diplomacy check here.
I admit I'm surprised there's no -100 penalty.
[13:46] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+147 let's go for a big 20
[13:46] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d20+147 let's go for a big 20 --> [ 1d20=14 ]{161}
It's factored in the DC in this case.
The stone is shattered faster than you can react. The roar of anger, of fury, of hate is enough to shake horizon to horizon.
With 100 blades ready to shed blood and a cry of defiance, the Hecatocheires steps through the portal.
It either worked or it didn't.
There's one last stone - Sylvie's.
He speaks the command word for it.
There is always hope, even today. Sylvie is the exemplar of that.
Give me an Initiative check.
[14:53] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+70
[14:53] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d20+70 --> [ 1d20=8 ]{78}
Fast enough.
Before the Hecatoncheires can act, Sylvie's stone activates. It's message is simple, a story you've heard before. But this third one seems to give it a moment's pause, or simply a moment before it can act properly.
It must make the decision on its own.
Right?
He prays.
Lord Zaphkiel - it must make this decision without me, but... I want to hold my hand out to it, even if it puts me at a risk. Is this how you felt with your son?
Yes.
What would you do, if you were me?
Act now, before you lose your chance.
"Hecatoncheires!" Moore shouts, his voice loud enough to be heard again, even a mile away. "I am coming to you - I come with no malice, nor intent to fight you. Please, I ask you only to listen to my words."
He rises up and begins to fly forward.
Elysium... show me the way. Show me the way to bring hope back to this one.
[roll][21:29] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+63[/roll] charisma
Your roll didn't work.
it sure didn't...
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+63 : 17 + 63, total 80[/blockquote]
The voice of the Hecatoncheires is a bellow, one that seems to go on forever and ever. Your flight is momentarily checked by the torrents of wind and blade rain it provokes.
"LIAR!"
"I do not lie." Moore says - his words somehow heard through the wind and blades. "I am not a demon, I am not of the Abyss - I gain nothing from lying to you. I will prove my words are true: You stand here - in this place, and yet not a single Archangel or protector has come to attack you - not a single being comes to try and slay you."
A rush. A raw, rage filled rush. Like this the Hecatoncheires is fast, ground blowing apart beneath it is at sprints to intercept you. You barely have a few moments to react, as a mass of blades, hatred and fury comes right at you.
You have one round's actions here. Use them wisely.
Violence was never the answer.
Fighting back was never the answer.
Trying to force his ideals on it was never the answer.
He holds his arms out to his sides, his palms facing forward - showing of nonviolence. He can't fight back - if he hopes to save it...
"You have to want to save yourself. This is not a burden you will be chained with, it is not a life you do not get to choose. Today is the day you can find your own hope - it is the day you can find your true happiness." His words come out without any divine inflection. "You only have to decide for yourself that you wish to save yourself. Because there is always hope."
His face is one of serenity - of belief in himself and what he represents.
He knows he's making the right decision.
Because there is always hope.
The great horror rushes you, and in one swing to sunder the air and shatter reality beneath you, its blades all come down at you at once.
Are you going to try and defend yourself?
He has to choose in that moment what to do.
He made a mistake with Makim - trying to force his own opinion on him.
He made a mistake on Smoke and almost cost so many their lives.
He won't make that same mistake again.
He only looks on the horror with a face full of hope and resolve as he stays where he is.
Because there is always hope.
> roll 1d20
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20 --> [ 1d20=11 ]{11}
Crit check.
> roll 40d6+380
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 40d6+380 --> [ 40d6=160 ]{540}
What sort of condition does that leave Moore in?
He is technically immune to crits, although I don't know how that works when you're willingly getting hit...
548/1088, so... half-ish.
Red hot agony. Swords slam you, tear you. One knocks you back, one nearly cleaves you in half, only a dodge turns into a bloody scrape instead. Your blood splashes out as the nightmare rages above you, blades ready to come down again and utterly end you.
Go.
"You have to choose for yourself... a better future." Moore says - the pain is unbearable, but even with that... he believes. "Look in yourself - find your own hope, for the first time in your life!"
> roll 40d6+380 since crits don't matter
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 40d6+380 since crits don't matter --> [ 40d6=161 ]{541}
HP after that? I'll do this all as one big line.
Ironically, 7 HP.
Blood.
The blades do not stop.
You're on the ground, body broken. Your blood is splashed everywhere, more out of you than in you. One eye doesn't work, your legs barely respond.
As you lie there, for one moment, the Hecatoncheires seems to hesitate.
"Choose." Moore says, simply, his body not responding anymore. He rasps - he doesn't need to breathe, and yet somehow he still rasps. "Choose... your own... happiness. Find... your true... moment... of happi--" A hacking, choked of blood cough. "...Happiness, in this place of peace."
Because there is always hope.
The blades stay where they are for a second. Two seconds. Three seconds.
The creature's face is twisted. Anger? No, it's not quite right. Confusion.
Another rasp.
"You... can choose, your own happiness." He says. "You... have to choose - ...you have to want... it."
Diplo check, -100 penalty.
[23:04] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+47 let's go for a big 20
[23:04] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+47 let's go for a big 20 --> [ 1d20=14 ]{61}
There is some irony that I got a 14 on the last one too...
The Hecatoncheires is frozen for that moment.
A step back.
That look of confusion grows. Anger and confusion, but slowly, confusion wins. A single greatsword, far larger than you are, comes up to cleave you apart. But it does not come down. There is a moment of harsh anticipation as you bleed and then? Then it is gone. The nightmare portal has closed. As if it was never there, the only sign of it your broken body and the devastated terrain around you.
Yet the memory of its confused face, of its hesitation, linger within your mind.
It is a bit anticlimactic, but Moore attempts to channel some healing into himself so he doesn't actually bleed out here in Elysium.
Two Heal spells to bring him back from almost dead to half dead.
Did he... fail?
No.
Because there is always hope.
A sigh escapes his mouth as he falls back onto the devastated ground.
"You've given me a difficult task, High One." Moore says, mostly to himself.
...But how is he -not- dead, anyway...? Was it Their intervention?
You could have chose to slay it. Most would take that meaning from the words of the task you were given.
"You and I both know that it might've been in the meaning, but it wasn't in the spirit of what this place represents." Moore says with a small smile as he sits up. "It doesn't represent your Answer at all."
There is a prophecy that states that the Hecatoncheires will be at the Final Day. Prophecy is not inviolate, but I knew that only failure or a miracle could occur with the task you were given.
I understand now why Zaphkiel advocated for you to a rare degree. Will you be the one that overcomes the Prophecy of Primus?
"I wonder what The Duke of Destiny would say in response to that." Moore says with a bit of a somber smile.
"You know, that prophecy could still be right. It may be at the Final Day, standing on the side of Creation and defending it from evil." A look up at the skies of Elysium. "I've overcome a great deal with my own determination and the help of my friends. I think that there's nothing that can't be done if you truly believe in it and have hope in your heart."
Go then.
You have planted a seed within the soul of the Hecatoncheires. Only time will see if it blossoms, but you have accomplished more than I desired from this task. Your way forward will not be barred this time.
A deity who will offer his blood as a sacrifice for even a single soul is one that is worthy of the Empyrean Gate.
"You speak too highly of me, High One." Moore says. "We shall return then to deal with the Guardian. However, we still need to wear our blindfolds to get that close, do we not?"
Yes.
Beware the Empyrean Gate.
"We will be ready." Moore says, as he pulls himself up to return to Hope's Landing to gather everyone up!
You gather people and as you do? You feel a strength well up in yourself, deeper and stronger than before.
Do me a favor and paste me your current divinity penalty from that fiasco with One?
http://www.soulriders.net/forum/index.php/topic,104384.msg1166276.html#msg1166276
A victory. A triumph wells up within you - you stood before a great evil and stood for what you believed in, until it fled.
You gain +1 divine rank. Additionally you've regained one of your two lost domains.
Moore puts a hand on his chest and smiles.
Because there is always hope. He can't give up today or ever.
I will handle the mechanical changes from this when I get home.
Cool. We'll pause here on that note then since you need to get that done. Toss a reply so it's not paused on my line.
Okay.
All math-y stuff should be done.
Okay, go ahead and set up whatever conversation you want to have here.
"The High One was impressed with what we've set out to do. They've allowed us access to the seed in Elysium." Moore explains to the others.
"I also seem to have... profited from standing true to my beliefs and have gained some strength from it. I wanted to find out who wished to go this time. As a reminder, we must wear those blindfolds when we go... apparently even we can't withstand the glory of the Empyrean Gate. Well... Sylvie, maybe you can?" Moore says as he ponders that. "Xandra too, maybe. It isn't something we need to test, it's just a thought."
"I'm not needed there," Sylvie stands, "You have this, Moore. Just don't do anything stupid - if you endanger the Gate, it'll be the last thing you do. I don't think she takes risks with the Gate."
"I'll go," Xandra volunteers without hesitation.
"As will I," Cresiel says, "We can handle this trip, as much as any beings can handle it."
Moore smiles. "You can just say that you don't want Cantasa Alexandria to say anything you don't want to hear, Sylvie." A small laugh after that.
"Yes, I think the three of us will be fine. Make sure the place doesn't burn down while we're gone, okay?" He says as he pushes himself to his feet.
Unless there's an objection and the others want to go as well, it can just be those three.
Alright, prep?
They will hit the Blessing Stone up first and then Plane Shift to however close the High One will allow them to go with that spell.
They're probably not going to run into any fights prior to the Gate (I mean... if they do, that'll be A thing) so nothing else currently.
You return to the edge once more, the boundary. This time no one is here, only the three of you.
"We know what's to be done," Cresiel declares, "Do not be afraid. Go forward."
I forget, Moore's divine sight is also blocked by the blindfolds, right?
Moore nods and puts the blindfold on.
"We have only to go forward." Moore says. "I am curious who we'll run into nonetheless."
A smile before he begins to fly forward.
In this case, yes, but this is an exceptional situation.
Perception.
Take 10 for 99.
You walk on. It is bright, so bright that even behind your blindfolds you can see it.
So you approach at last. It was not hard to influence him towards that trial, but I would prefer that you not tell him. It was necessary but I do not relish what I did.
Deeper into the light. The light that never ends, the light that is radiant. You remember Chronias. It is similar. Not quite the same as you walk forward, but close. So very close.
"Oh. Was this your doing?" Xandra says, voice kept low.
Yes. A trial before you reach the seed will suffice better than one before it. Were I free to, all Creation would be restored at my hand. Too long has suffering gone forth in name of an Answer. Unfortunately the Incarnation of Balance restrained me far too well. I'm sorry I can't do that.
"Guardian," Cresiel's voices is respectful as you walk. "What of the Seraph?"
She will not interfere in this matter. Concern yourself not with the guardians of the Empyrean Gate. That is a duty even beyond the divine, for they deal with the affairs of all the rest of Creation. Leave this to those designated to protect what lies beyond the Gate.
"It's good to meet you." Moore says. "Although... I guess we've already met, technically. As for your wish, we are not the type to go against something done in good faith - or whatever you wish to call it." Moore's tone is the same as Cresiel's - respectful.
"I'm glad to ... ah, hear that you are doing well. The Guardian on Arcadia... ..." A pause. "...I think I understand now, why the Incarnation left all of you in the places that they did."
An experiment, perhaps, or fortune.
Approach. It is time.
"All of you have been different." Moore says. "I think the Incarnation of Balance knew that they simply did not understand Creation at all... and so you all were... attempts at understanding. Individuals placed with the specific tasks... but with a greater task beyond that. You've spent so long here that you've understood and learned about compassion and goodness. Ah... I'm sorry, you don't need me to explain that, I'm sure." Moore ducks his head a bit respectfully.
.
Nonetheless, Moore will fly forward again. "I hope all of you are able to meet again, wherever it is you go after this. You all deserve that." He says.
There is no reply - only through the vast light of some impossible thing can you see it at all. A divine seed floats before you, ready to be taken.
"They never are much for conversation, are they?" He says as he hesitates a moment. "We should... probably go." Moore says as he reaches out to take it. "This isn't a place I want to tarry."
Once taken, he will return back to Hope's Landing and go to his keep to investigate this more fully.
The trip back is unbothered. When you return to Hope's Landing, what do you do?
Before anything else, he checks the seed to see how many charges it has in it. They can discuss how and what to do with them after that.
The seed has 5 charges.
We can do this IC, but Moore would definitely talk with the others to get their opinions on what to do with this and how to use it.
"Swiftly," Sylvie says as you all quickly gather before it. "But the question of what we do with it is paramount."
"Five charges," Xandra says slowly, as if a marvel. "Six of us, five charges. How do we spend them?"
"At least one person will have to forsake a charge," Jetina points out there.
"Well, I got stronger because of my actions, so if everyone used it, then you'd all be at the same level as me." Moore says. "I don't mind if that's what you all wish to do. We're all in this together, one way or another."
Of you all, it's Kaja who speaks up after that. "The seed is a tactical resource as much as it is anything else. Let's ask ourselves another question: How do we gain the most out of it?" The half dragon begins to pace, "Sometimes spread force is better, other times concentrated force wins."
"That's one way to look at it, but let's put it another way. Honest show of hands," Sylvie declares, "Raise your hand if you genuinely want a charge from the seed. Want, not need, not desire, not want to sacrifice it for everyone else's good."
After a long moment, Cresiel raises his hand.
Xandra raises her hand, "I do." Nothing else, a simple statement of fact.
Kaja shakes his head, "Divinity is a sword I've not yet mastered. Only a fool advances further until they are ready."
Jetina looks back and forth, "No, not yet," Is Jetina's answer, "I'm not ready yet. I'm hardly ready for what I have."
Sylvie raises her hand without hesitation. "I'm a terrible choice to hold power, but since reality is what it is, I won't say no. Not now." Then her gaze travels to Moore, awaiting.
Moore nods to the discussion, then glances to Sylvie's question before a nod to each of them at the raise of their hands.
He follows suit by raising his own hand.
"If there's anything I've learned with all of this, it's that we've stepped into a pool much deeper than our legs can support us." He says, simply. "If we are to do what we've been asked to do, then we need to be stronger in order to do it. It is neither a selfishness to want to proceed down that path, nor is it cowardice to need more time."
"Four of us, five charges," Sylvie concludes at that, "Moore should take the extra - he went above and beyond to face the Hecatoncheires."
"Acceptable and agreeable," Cresiel seconds that.
"Better than to leave it to chance," Xandra agrees, "Moore is our leader, he should step further ahead."
Moore bows his head once - a small but humble smile forming afterwards. "I was going to make an argument about saving it in case of an emergency, but... I can't keep talking about the bonds the six of us share and then just ignore all of you when you tell me to do something."
A slightly larger smile after that. "But I didn't face the Hecatoncheires alone - you all helped, it was you all who gave me the strength. And there were others outside of that who aided us, too. But I don't think Lady Selune can gain anything from one of those..."
"She probably could," Xandra disagrees, "But - we need it more."
"In another time and another place we could, but this isn't that. We need this power," Sylvie seconds. "Are you ready, Moore?"
Moore nods. "I won't insult all of you by demurring away from my duty and what you all ask of me." He says. "We'll all get stronger together - we all have to."
Thus the seed awaits - are you to use it?
Moore will touch it once - let his friends touch it, then touch it again.
You should always let people go first before you have seconds!
The raw surge is a new awakening. Power fills you as new vistas open, your divinity growing twice in mere moments.
"It's as good as it was the first time," Xandra declares once done, "The future is so clear to me now."
Moore smiles and takes a moment to feel out his new strength.
"Now that we've attained this, we're going to go try something that failed once before and see if we're more successful now." He says. "Cresiel, Xandra, Sylvie - we're going to go back to the First Prison."
"Again?" Kaja asks, "What for this time?"
"Last time we tried to take people out of there and it didn't work." Moore says. "We've grown in strength since then, and I'd like to try again. I think there are so many people there that don't deserve it... and the rest should still be locked away somewhere that isn't like that."
"Then we'll go," Sylvie agrees, as...
Before anything else, any prep plans for your return?
We'll hit up the Blessing Stone as usual, but we know the way there and back so this should be simple enough.
Refresh me on the spells from it?
Mind Blank, Afina's Perfect Vision, Epic Mage Armor.
Sylvie would suggest fortunate fate and freedom of movement as well. Anyone can provide the latter, can you provide the former?
Moore can indeed do that, CL25 so the duration doesn't matter.
Okay then, where are you aiming the teleport?
If memory serves we had to go a few miles outside of it last time - I think two? I can look it up if need be, but as close as we can manage and we'll just travel to it like we did before.
Sure, go ahead and look it up.
https://www.soulriders.net/forum/index.php/topic,104397.msg1172438.html#msg1172438
Two miles.
You appear. It's dark and unpleasant, a coldness to the air this time that chills deep. Nothing here but the path forward and endless shadows in every direction. Red ice beneath your feet chills, drawing out any heat from you.
'Hm. Mephisto did come here once before, so I wonder if that's what's happening this time.' Moore sends to the others. 'Be on your guard.'
Since he can see all the way to the First Prison now, he will proceed in that direction but keep an eye out for anything.
You can see that the gates of the prison are wide open now. No guard stands and nothing bars exit at all.
'Come, something has happened here.' Moore says to the others as he hurries along.
As you approach, a figure wrapped in liquid metal - like armor but fluid - comes out and begins to hammer a sheaf of papers into the door. It is tall, about as tall as Hanna, and his hammer blows echo deeply in this dark place.
Excuse me, who are you and what are you doing?
The figure pauses mid hammer. In your mind it declares, 'What is inevitable and what must be done.'
That doesn't answer my question. Are you from Mechanus? I am Moore of Celestia and have business here, so I would ask you again who you are and what your are doing.
Give me an Intimidate check. Not that you tried, just that your name has a certain weight as a deity.
Take 10 for 122.
The figure darts inside, hammer dropped.
Moore continues on to take a glance at whatever this paper says.
Going to walk the few miles and then read it, or try and read it from afar?
Oh, I'm really dumb. Sorry.
He will read it from afar.
The front page reads as a writ of execution of various creatures within, listed and named. It is signed with the name 'Death'.
'Damnit. I don't know what's going on in there, but we need to make haste.' He says to the others as he hurries himself along!
'I saw," Xandra says as you fly, 'Nothing good. Hate comes home to roost with evil.'
'That or nature abhors a vacuum - except when it's Vacuum.' Sylvie sends as you all race along.
Nothing else need to be said, they just continue on.
You soon reach the gates, no creatures in the way to interrupt your trip. None bar your way in, but the paper is still on the door in case you want to inspect it closer.
Casting Hindsight here, he wants to know who came through here recently so he can identify them.
K:P for 122 on whatever names come out of this.
CL check.
[12:44] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+41 CL
[12:44] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d20+41 CL --> [ 1d20=9 ]{50}
No good - you can tell the spell's being blocked by a dreadfully power spellcaster.
'Something is blocking my ability to see who's actually here. I do not necessarily believe we are in danger, but someone very strong is here.' He says to the others. 'We should have the strength to deal with almost anything though, but I do not wish to continue if any of you have reservations.'
If we run now, we're divine cowards. It's not without risk, but we do not retreat lightly. We don't face another Hecatoncheires here.
'I agree,' Xandra says at last, 'At least let us discern who is behind this.'
'Then we shall proceed with protection.' Moore says.
Inspire Courage and Inspire Heroics as we go on.
Courage Immunity to charm and fear effects and a +22 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls (Swift)
Heroics - 12x Aliies +18 morale bonus to saves and +18 dodge to AC
That takes one round of actions?
Yes.
You rush in - and as you do?
'Leave.' A voice in your mind, a silent warning.
'Your associate already told you who we are, so why don't you tell me who you are?' Is his counter.
'Even the divine will die before me. You have made your choice.'
Moore will soldier on forward, but not without casting further spells to protect everyone.
Celestial Valor, CL25.
+8 sacred vs fear and emotion effects that would sap the will to fight, +4 sacred to attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, armor class and saving throws, weapons count as holy
'We're being threatened.' He says to the others.
'Of course we are,' Cresiel says, 'What else?'
'Talk later, keep going now.' Xandra says, 'Hurry.'
'Now's the time to get any spells out.' Moore says as they move forward!
He will be standard action bard songing as they go and also moving, so let me know if this gets into init timing somewhere.
Go ahead and list your spells so I can get the entire block set up at once. Actually, go ahead and summarize all you've done.
So far is the following:
Inspire Courage and Inspire Heroics as we go on.
Courage Immunity to charm and fear effects and a +22 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls (Swift)
Heroics - 12x Aliies +18 morale bonus to saves and +18 dodge to AC
Celestial Valor, CL25.
+8 sacred vs fear and emotion effects that would sap the will to fight, +4 sacred to attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, armor class and saving throws, weapons count as holy
If I'm getting carte blanche to do more I will add more.
Go ahead, 3 rounds worth.
Inspire Excellence - Charsima +16 competence bonus to Charisma for everyone
Inspire Excellence - Constitution +16 competence bonus to Constitution for everyone
Inspire Courage - Immunity to charm and fear, and a +22 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls
You walk into the chamber where you first faced the warden of this dark place. There is no sign of it, but here are several. The creature in liquid, metallic armor stands here. Behind it is an elven woman, nude and her entire body riddled with metal piercings. It's almost enough to maintain her decency, hundreds of metallic barbs, hooks and pins riddling her body. She is 10ft up, sitting on a broom that floats. She has no hair, just a mockery of it of steel spikes that rise from her head.
The bristles of that broom regularly twist into a face-like visage, leering down at the party.
Ahead, further ahead in the darkness stands a four armed, green skinned creature almost as large as Cresiel. A nycaloth you recall, a type of daemon. Each hand has a hand axe at the ready, and as you look at it. Every few moments a flicker, as an exact copy of it is joined at its back, momentarily illuminated. It wears full armor, covering its green body.
At that creature's feet sits a dog-like creature ready to pounce. Large as the largest hound you've ever seen, it is clad in armor and has no face, only a maw with teeth and a long, whip-like and barbed tongue. A canoloth, another type of daemon.
"This is ours," The nycaloth declares, and spits to the side, "We'll not give it up, not to anyone, not even scum deities like you."
"Good," Cresiel declares, readying his sword. "Defeat beckons you forward, daemon."
Sylvie takes 10 on a bunch of checks.
Sylvie rolls her neck slowly, pointing. First to the elven woman, "Rillea the Bloody. Last seen, oh, more years than I care t ocount when your wretched soul was finally dragged the Lower Planes. Of course, talent rises back up, one way or another. Not at names, but not everyone can have a title that isn't used endlessly across the planes."
Then to the nycaloth, "Gyme, formerly in the service of the previous Oinoloth. Vanished, left, who can say with the daemons, but you've turned up again. One of countless thralls of a daemon lord and hardly the first to try going rogue. Remember the Graceful Blow? Some of the same tricks as Mirima has, Moore."
"Sylvie, newly risen power of Hope's Landing," Gyme declares, his voice harsh. Like stones grating against one another. "You're known to our master."
"Good," Sylvie smiles thinly, "He'll know why all of you got beaten within an inch of your life, mortal." Slowly cracking her knuckles, "Few daemons are so stupid as to fight the divine."
Rillea leers over - eyes with metallic rings sunk into them, bands around the whites of them and within them. "Always wanted to hear the screams of a so called deity as I flay them." She licks her lips slowly - and Xandra steps forward.
"Keep wondering. I see no futures in which you get your wish," Xandra declares.
[spoiler]
Inspire Courage and Inspire Heroics as we go on.
Courage Immunity to charm and fear effects and a +22 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls (Swift)
Heroics - 12x Aliies +18 morale bonus to saves and +18 dodge to AC
Celestial Valor, CL25.
+8 sacred vs fear and emotion effects that would sap the will to fight, +4 sacred to attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, armor class and saving throws, weapons count as holy
Inspire Excellence - Charsima +16 competence bonus to Charisma for everyone
Inspire Excellence - Constitution +16 competence bonus to Constitution for everyone
Inspire Courage - Immunity to charm and fear, and a +22 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls
Cresiel
HP: 1018/1018 (regeneration 21)
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil), Divine 10ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+0, Damage+0 AC+0, Saves+0, Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 40/40 (enc) Channel Energy 18/18 Divine Retribution 1/1 Blinding Speed 25/25 Knight's Challenge 15/15 Smite 1/1 Endurance Domain 1/1 Protection Domain 1/1 Renewal Domain 1/1
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Detect Evil (CL36), Detect Snares and Pits (CL36), Discern Lies (CL36), True Seeing (CL36)
Notes: Adjacent allies gain a shield bonus equal to Cresiel's shield bonus. Use divine shield as a swift action.
Xandra
HP: 756/756
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Menace 20ft (-2 attacks, AC, saves; DC 37), Divine 10ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+0, Damage+0 AC+0, Saves+0, Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Smite Evil 10/10 Domain Smite Evil 1/1 Lay On Hands 28/28 Servant of the Heavens 1/1 Sudden Empower 1/1 Sudden Enlarge 1/1 Mysticism Domain 1/1
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: True Seeing (CL36)
Notes: Has bardic music in the rare event Moore can't cover something.
Sylvie
HP: 798/798
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine 10ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+0, Damage+0 AC+0, Saves+0, Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Inspiration 30/30 (enc) Opportunistic Piety 17/17 Mimic Class Feature 8/8 Mentalism Domain 1/1
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Bibliotheca Arcana (CL37), Lore of the Gods (CL37), Superior Mighty Wallop (CL36), Sylvie's Mental Peak (CL36)
Notes:
Moore speaks one word.
Leave.
I'm sure they have mind blank and whatever, but he'll go for it anyway. Take 10 on Intimidate for 130.
Any particular function or just a straight Intimidate check?
flat scary
The creature with the liquid armor visibly recoils from that. Rillea does not, only leers given to you. The nycaloth masters himself while the canoloth at his feet whimpers and scrabbles back.
"Don't be afraid, you assholes!" he demands, "The so called divine are nothing but adventurers with more power! They bleed like any other!"
"Your only warning." Moore says. He glances at Sylvie. "Should we just take them all back to Celestia, or send them home?" His voice is dispassionate - neutral.
"Up to you," Sylvie says, but the nycaloth does not yield.
"Kill them!" he calls, as...
It's just about the magical, special initiative time.
Moore's got Supreme, so that's easy.
[11:45] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+28 Xandra
[11:45] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d20+28 Xandra --> [ 1d20=8 ]{36}
[11:45] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+40 Cresiel
[11:45] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d20+40 Cresiel --> [ 1d20=5 ]{45}
[11:45] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+55 Sylbie
[11:45] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d20+55 Sylbie --> [ 1d20=10 ]{65}
> roll 1d20+16 liquid armor
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+16 liquid armor --> [ 1d20=17 ]{33}
> roll 1d20+21 (+5 nerveskitter) Rillea
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+21 (+5 nerveskitter) Rillea --> [ 1d20=11 ]{32}
> roll 1d20+18 Broom
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+18 Broom --> [ 1d20=9 ]{27}
> OOC: Gyme has something that puts him at top of init, though Supreme Init trumps.
> roll 1d20+17 Canoloth
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+17 Canoloth --> [ 1d20=4 ]{21}
> roll 1d20+43 ????
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+43 ???? --> [ 1d20=19 ]{62}
Init is Moore (Supreme) > Gyme (First Strike) > Sylvie (65) > ???? (62) > Cresiel (45) > Xandra (36) > Liquid Armor (33) > Rillea (32) > Broom (27) > Canoloth (21)
Open Moore.
"If you value your lives, you will stay put. I won't harm you if you don't harm us." Moore says, glancing at the individual in liquid armor.
Moore makes a gesture as a beam of energy flies from his hand at Gyme!
Divine Blast.
[12:29] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+71 touch
[12:29] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d20+71 touch --> [ 1d20=2 ]{73}
[12:30] <Nephrite> roll 29d12
[12:30] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 29d12 --> [ 29d12=188 ]{188}
'Disable them if you can. I'd rather not kill them if we can help it.' Moore says to the others privately, as another song bolsters their fighting power!
Destined Strike - +6 to attack and damage rolls, Improved Critical Feat, +25 to threat confirmation rolls.
d100, he has miss chance, unless something in divine blast overcomes it.
[12:42] <Nephrite> roll 1d100
[12:42] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d100 --> [ 1d100=68 ]{68}
I don't think it does, but hey, that'd be a good SDA to tack onto it!
Your blast hits Gyme dead on - right in the chest, slamming him back. It's enough to make him stagger, "Hit good," he grins darkly, before pouncing ahead, all his axes swinging as he closes in on Cresiel at the front. A word of dark magic is uttered as he does, his pounce intensifying as he swings away.
> roll 1d20+98 (+4 charge, +24 favored enemy, +4 ???, +3 ???, +4 ???)
> roll 1d20+98 (+4 charge, +24 favored enemy, +4 ???, +3 ???, +4 ???)
> roll 1d20+98 (+4 charge, +24 favored enemy, +4 ???, +3 ???, +4 ???)
> roll 1d20+98 (+4 charge, +24 favored enemy, +4 ???, +3 ???, +4 ???)
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+98 (+4 charge, +24 favored enemy, +4 ???, +3 ???, +4 ???) --> [ 1d20=5 ]{103}
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+98 (+4 charge, +24 favored enemy, +4 ???, +3 ???, +4 ???) --> [ 1d20=12 ]{110}
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+98 (+4 charge, +24 favored enemy, +4 ???, +3 ???, +4 ???) --> [ 1d20=19 ]{117}
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+98 (+4 charge, +24 favored enemy, +4 ???, +3 ???, +4 ???) --> [ 1d20=16 ]{114}
Yet Cresiel is a rock. Not a single axe can get him as he holds his ground, armor unyielding in the face of four wild, deadly slashes.
At the same time the daemon glares at Cresiel, his assault stopped.
Sylvie.
Sylvie steps in, smooth as poured milk as she attacks his left side. No great strategy, only deadly blows that rain down one after another.
Okay, go ahead and react but I'm going to focus on you tonight and pause you now, since this is a ton of combat work.
"You had your chance." Moore says with a small sigh.
No problem.
> roll 1d20+108 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+108 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration) --> [ 1d20=20 ]{128}
> roll 1d20+108 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+108 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration) --> [ 1d20=17 ]{125}
> roll 1d20+103 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+103 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration) --> [ 1d20=5 ]{108}
> roll 1d20+98 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+98 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration) --> [ 1d20=16 ]{114}
> roll 1d20+93 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+93 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration) --> [ 1d20=17 ]{110}
> roll 1d20+108 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration) crit check
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+108 (+32 Moore, +22 inspiration) crit check --> [ 1d20=2 ]{110}
> roll 1d100 miss chance crit
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance crit --> [ 1d100=46 ]{46}
> roll 1d100 miss chance
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance --> [ 1d100=75 ]{75}
> roll 1d100 miss chance
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance --> [ 1d100=49 ]{49}
> roll 1d100 miss chance
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance --> [ 1d100=12 ]{12}
> roll 1d100 miss chance
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance --> [ 1d100=30 ]{30}
> roll 5d10+79+2d6
> roll 5d10+79+2d6
> roll 5d10+79+2d6
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 5d10+79+2d6 --> [ 5d10=26 2d6=6 ]{111}
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 5d10+79+2d6 --> [ 5d10=26 2d6=9 ]{114}
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 5d10+79+2d6 --> [ 5d10=15 2d6=11 ]{105}
> roll 10d10+158+2d6
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 10d10+158+2d6 --> [ 10d10=68 2d6=6 ]{232}
Gyme is good - but he faces the divine. His defenses crumble as blow after blow slams into him, a flurry of sharp punches and snap kicks that shatter his face and break his bones. He reels back, blood pouring down from his ruined nose and crushed jaw. He's barely able to stay up in light of that, "Idiot," Sylvie whispers, "You think all the talk is empty bradaccio, daemon?"
Init is Moore (Supreme) > Gyme (First Strike) > Sylvie (65) > ???? (62) > Cresiel (45) > Xandra (36) > Liquid Armor (33) > Rillea (32) > Broom (27) > Canoloth (21)
Then, moments later, ink black darts come from around the corner and turn perfectly. Little darts of raw energy, which slam into Gyme's back. His face partially fixes itself as do some of his bones, restoration coming from them. But it's not full and Cresiel looms over him, Frozen Oath coming down again and again.
> roll 1d20+94 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed)
> roll 1d20+94 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+94 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed) --> [ 1d20=12 ]{106}
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+94 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed) --> [ 1d20=6 ]{100}
> roll 1d20+89 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+89 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed) --> [ 1d20=6 ]{95}
> roll 1d20+84 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+84 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed) --> [ 1d20=3 ]{87}
> roll 1d20+97 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed, +18 furious strike)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+97 (+32 Moore, +1 blinding speed, +18 furious strike) --> [ 1d20=6 ]{103}
> roll 1d8+54+3d6+2d6
> roll 1d8+54+3d6+2d6
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d8+54+3d6+2d6 --> [ 1d8=3 3d6=10 2d6=9 ]{76}
> roll 1d8+54+3d6+2d6
> roll 1d8+54+3d6+2d6
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d8+54+3d6+2d6 --> [ 1d8=6 3d6=7 2d6=12 ]{79}
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d8+54+3d6+2d6 --> [ 1d8=4 3d6=14 2d6=7 ]{79}
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d8+54+3d6+2d6 --> [ 1d8=7 3d6=13 2d6=9 ]{83}
> roll 1d8+54+3d6+2d6+9d6
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d8+54+3d6+2d6+9d6 --> [ 1d8=4 3d6=11 2d6=6 9d6=28 ]{103}
> roll 1d100 miss chance almost forgot
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance almost forgot --> [ 1d100=13 ]{13}
> roll 1d100 miss chance almost forgot
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance almost forgot --> [ 1d100=32 ]{32}
> roll 1d100 miss chance almost forgot
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance almost forgot --> [ 1d100=26 ]{26}
> roll 1d100 miss chance almost forgot
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance almost forgot --> [ 1d100=22 ]{22}
> roll 1d100 miss chance almost forgot
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 miss chance almost forgot --> [ 1d100=42 ]{42}
Init is Moore (Supreme) > Sylvie (65) > ???? (62) > Cresiel (45) > Xandra (36) > Liquid Armor (33) > Rillea (32) > Broom (27) > Canoloth (21)
In a spray of foul blood Gyme goes down, Frozen Oath drawing back as his chest is torn open. He tumbles down as his axes fall, while meanwhile...
Xandra, go.
[spoiler]
Inspire Courage and Inspire Heroics as we go on.
Courage Immunity to charm and fear effects and a +22 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls (Swift)
Heroics - 12x Aliies +18 morale bonus to saves and +18 dodge to AC
Celestial Valor, CL25.
+8 sacred vs fear and emotion effects that would sap the will to fight, +4 sacred to attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, armor class and saving throws, weapons count as holy
Inspire Excellence - Charsima +16 competence bonus to Charisma for everyone
Inspire Excellence - Constitution +16 competence bonus to Constitution for everyone
Inspire Courage - Immunity to charm and fear, and a +22 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls
Destined Strike - +6 to attack and damage rolls, Improved Critical Feat, +25 to threat confirmation rolls.
Cresiel
HP: 1018/1018 (regeneration 21)
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Protective 20ft (+4 deflection/+4 resistance vs evil), Divine 10ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+0, Damage+0 AC+0, Saves+0, Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Holy Fury 39/40 (enc) Channel Energy 18/18 Divine Retribution 1/1 Blinding Speed 24/25 Knight's Challenge 15/15 Smite 1/1 Endurance Domain 1/1 Protection Domain 1/1 Renewal Domain 1/1
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Detect Evil (CL36), Detect Snares and Pits (CL36), Discern Lies (CL36), True Seeing (CL36)
Notes: Adjacent allies gain a shield bonus equal to Cresiel's shield bonus. Use divine shield as a swift action.
Xandra
HP: 756/756
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Menace 20ft (-2 attacks, AC, saves; DC 37), Divine 10ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+0, Damage+0 AC+0, Saves+0, Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Smite Evil 10/10 Domain Smite Evil 1/1 Lay On Hands 28/28 Servant of the Heavens 1/1 Sudden Empower 1/1 Sudden Enlarge 1/1 Mysticism Domain 1/1
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: True Seeing (CL36)
Notes: Has bardic music in the rare event Moore can't cover something.
Sylvie
HP: 798/798
Negative Conditions:
Aura: Divine 10ft (various)
Bonuses: Attack+0, Damage+0 AC+0, Saves+0, Skills+0, Checks+0
Resources: Inspiration 25/30 (enc) Opportunistic Piety 17/17 Mimic Class Feature 8/8 Mentalism Domain 1/1
Spells Used:
SLAs Used:
Spells Active: Bibliotheca Arcana (CL37), Lore of the Gods (CL37), Superior Mighty Wallop (CL36), Sylvie's Mental Peak (CL36)
Notes:
The only other one who seemed not to be kowtowed by Moore was Rillea, so Xandra gestures and focuses on her.
Let's give Magic Missile Massacre a try.
[21:51] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+41 SR check
[21:51] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+41 SR check --> [ 1d20=20 ]{61}
[21:50] <Nephrite> roll 70d4
[21:50] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 70d4 --> [ 70d4=159 ]{159}
+26 = 183
If the creature is ethereal, ghostly or otherwise incorporeal, any attack against it can strike and harm it as if were a force effect.
In case she has any tricks up her sleeve like Gyme did.
Oh, can Moore tell if Gyme's like, dead dead? Or just like... pretty much dead?
Perception for Moore real quick.
Take 10 for 106
Moore can tell he's playing dead. Hurt gravely but biding his time.
Meanwhile missiles massacre Rillea, hitting her again and again. She's knocked back, almost off her broom from it. As that happens the creature in liquid armor turns and flees, deeper into the prison.
"Coward!" Rillea cries as she gestures, as from above bolts of metal lightning rain down on all of you.
> roll 1d20+44 (+10 vs SR)
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+44 (+10 vs SR) --> [ 1d20=17 ]{61}
This beats most of your SRs but Sylvie's I believe, so ref saves.
'He's not actually dead, so if you can knock him out do so.' Moore calls to the others as he tries to avoid this!
[22:27] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+61+18 Moore, evasion
[22:28] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+61+18 Moore, evasion --> [ 1d20=15 ]{94}
[22:28] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+64+18 Cresiel, Evasion
[22:28] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+64+18 Cresiel, Evasion --> [ 1d20=5 ]{87}
[22:28] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+65+18 Xandra
[22:28] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+65+18 Xandra --> [ 1d20=20 ]{103}
> roll 30d8 Xandra halves
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 30d8 Xandra halves --> [ 30d8=126 ]{126}
Lightning comes down - but Moore and Cresiel block it while Xandra endures - not even bloodied. Nothing more than a mild shock for her as meanwhile...
Broom holds.
The canoloth turns and flees as well, as...
Go.
Moore gestures - he should've done this before, but this is fine.
'If we can spare their lives, do it. We need more information about who they're serving in order to deal with them after this.' He says to the others.
Divine will for a wall of force over their retreat point - where the two just ran off from. They had their chance!
[Trying to block them, you mean?
Just trying to block the two who are still here, to be clear - sorry.
The wall springs up, keeping the nycaloth and the metal pierced woman pinned within here, sure enough. The only escape is through the four of you now.
Anything else this turn?
"You can surrender with dignity if you'd like." Moore says.
That's it
Give me Intimidate again, +10 bonus.
Take 10 for 140.
A snarl, a furious look - but the woman hops off her broom and raises her arms.
"Kneel and lie down, hands on top of your head," Sylvie says as the pierced woman does just that. "Don't make any moves."
Free act, that's one way to smash a battle quickly.
"You too." Moore says at Gyme. "You can stop pretending."
Gyme manages to slowly stir, beaten and bloodied. A cough, a pained one before a look of pure, unrestrained hate.
Cresiel goes to him and places his blade at the creature's throat. Not a word is said, a silent staredown before the fiend closes his eyes.
'Do we just knock them out and take them back or deal with them here?' Moore asks the others. 'We can put them to sleep or something with magic and leave with them easily enough. I will go retrieve the other two as well.'
'Knock them out,' Sylvie says immediately, over Rillea. A quick, sharp blow to her head does just that.
'Don't do it like that unless you know what you're doing,' Sylvie adds. 'Most mortals who try that cause head trauma or fatalities.'
'You handle it.' Moore says. A quick glance in the direction those two ran...
Can he see them? This place is still kind of special.
No, they went deeper in and as you said, it's a unique place.
Moore will leave the two of them and fly briefly down the hall and see if he can spot them.
He'll go like, a minute or two.
No sign of them - they seem to have skittered away.
He'll have to find them later. He turns around to return to the others.
'So, what's the verdict, leave with them for now?'
'Briefly return back to imprison them at Hope's Landing,' Xandra suggests, 'So nothing can conspire against our capture here. It would be unneeded to have to liberate them from imprisonment here or in Carceri only to take them to Hope's Landing to be potentially imprisoned.'
'We'd give the others more time to regroup,' Sylvie points out, 'But that may not be a bad idea. We have enough of the group to get information now.'
'Take them back.' Moore says to them. 'It isn't a long trip, I'll wait here and keep an eye on the entrance.'
Sylvie gives you the flattest, least impressed look you've ever seen.
'Cresiel, stay here,' Sylvie instructs shortly. To his credit, Cresiel is already taking position near Moore, ready to defend. Sylvie and Xandra levitate Gyme and Rillea up, heading back the way they came.
Moore sighs but doesn't object.
Plan will be to wait until they get back unless they contact him that there's A Problem.
Sure, gimme a d100.
[22:51] <Nephrite> roll 1d100
[22:51] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=18 ]{18}
Amazingly it works - the two return without incident, "It's done," Sylvie responds, "We have them safely held there. Jetina and Kaja will make sure they can't escape. A sealed room of solid steel feet thick with the astral links severed and a ward to stop means to slip through solid steel like a ghost will keep them there as long as we need."
"Any idea who their master is? I imagine we'll be hearing from them shortly either way." Moore says. "But let's see what exactly it was that they did here - I don't know where those other two ended up, but I imagine we'll also come across them in due time."
Moore will try and see if he can get any information from the room they're in currently.
[11:40] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+45 Hindsight CL
[11:40] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d20+45 Hindsight CL --> [ 1d20=6 ]{51}
If this fails, am I able to try again? I'm not sure how that works.
No, same roll would apply.
Nothing, still blocked.
'Didn't take the time,' Sylvie says laconically in your mind, 'Jetina might be able to tease it out, but she's not good at that sort of magic.'
"Hm." Moore shrugs. "We'll have to figure that out - we've never had the opportunity to have captives before, so I don't know what spells exist to get information out of people... well, we can worry about it when we get back."
For now they will just explore the area around them and check the various prison cells - it seemed like some people should've been taken out and possibly executed, so let's see what's different from the last time we were here.
Sure, a few things at once. Marching order, Perception and anything else you feel is relevant to that task.
Moore, Cresiel, Xandra, Sylvie.
Take 10 for 106 on Perception for Moore. He's also got True Seeing if needed.
You go in. At least at first, you see every cell is empty, as if no one was ever in them.
"They must've just killed them. But why?" He asks. "Maybe we can find out from them."
He will keep going!
'They said something about Death, didn't they?' Xandra states, 'On that paper they pianned to the door?'
'Yes, it seems like it's something their master seems interested in.' Moore says. 'We'll understand it once we get the information out of them... ... but I wonder about something... we'll have to see it for ourselves, but if someone in here dies, where does their soul go?'
'A good question,' Cresiel agrees, 'There may be some soul repository deeper within, hidden.'
'Or it simply reincarnates or reforms their bodies,' Xandra speculates, 'We can't rightly say.'
'It doesn't feel like the Guardian would've left a loophole to allow people out.' Moore says as they proceed along - intending to go until he finds someone in a cage again. 'So if that's the case, I wonder if the people who died here are still here. You're right that there may be some function of this place deeper in...'
A pause before he continues. 'I didn't intend to go on a deep sojourn here, but it may bear a deeper investigation, especially since it seems like the wardens of this place are no longer active.'
'Something's happened,' Sylvie agrees as you walk.
d100.
'It's up to us to solve it, since we're the ones who've put it in this state.'
[14:34] <Nephrite> roll 1d100
[14:34] <Rei-chan> Nephrite rolled : 1d100 --> [ 1d100=28 ]{28}
A long walk and further - still no sign of anyone that you can find.
Moore continues on - there's no way they could've killed everything here. He will keep going until they find something else.
'Jetina, see what you and Kaja can do to get information out of those two. If Melia is around have her interrogate them. Use magic if you need to to make them tell the truth. We need to know more about what they did here.'
'We're already working on it,' Jetina says, 'But their minds are sealed and by an extremely powerful spellcaster. We're working on it.'
Well, for now, all they can do is go forward and keep looking.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 37, total 37[/blockquote] In case you need it.
You wander on. The passage to the first stairwell is blocked. Thick slabs of metal seal the way entirely, the edges of it and the stone melted together, as if great heat fused them together.
Ah, this was probably the other one.
Moore gestures and a Divine Blast comes from his hand to open the way.
Sure enough, it carves right through mere metal and opens a hole for you all to get through.
Moore proceeds onwards, though he does stop for a moment.
Take 10 on Spellcraft for 120 if he can pick up any magic on the metal. If so, he'd like to identify the caster.
Take a further 10 for 125 on K:P for whatever the name is.
CL on whatever means you use to detect magic.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+45 : 10 + 45, total 55[/blockquote]
You don't detect any magic.
'Whatever it is they're doing to hide their magic is impressive.' He says as he goes along. 'I can't detect any at all.'
'Or there's no magic at all, which is just as impressive,' Sylvie remarks.
'Either way, let us go, whomever this is, they are not weak,' Cresiel says. 'They will now cower at a confrontation.'
'I haven't been able to detect anything with Hindsight, so something is protecting them, at least.' He says as they go down the familiar steps.
You do - and when you reach the bottom, more metal slabs block the way.
Another Divine Blast solves this problem, the same as the last time.
It opens a passage, sure enough. Through it is...red carpeting? That's new.
'Curious.' He says to the others as he proceeds on.
He's got Arcane Sight up as he goes in case there's any shenanigans.
You step in. Red carpet. Cells draped over with red velvet. A table. A figure clad entirely in blood red tunic, pants and red metal mask sits here. What flesh you can see is a slightly softer shade of red. He is human sized, unremarkable in that aspect. Driven into the table is a knife as he sits there, undisturbed by your appearance.
"Moore, the fool," He speaks, a hint of amusement in every word. "With his friends? Minders? I suppose there's no difference."
"So it would seem we meet the 'master of death.'" Moore says. "Who are you and what do you want with this place?"
"Call me Death," Is his answer, "You're far from home and in matters that do not concern you."
"I happen to have known the previous warden of this place, and I have business here." He says. "You're not going to leave here if I ask you nicely, are you?"
"Hardly," Is his answer.
"Then what do you want?" Sylvie asks, plainly, "Four on one is terrible odds."
"Yes, you've been rather unclear about your goals." Moore says. "Your friends upstairs didn't seem to like the divine very much, so I'm guessing they got that idea from you. I'm going to make it really clear to you - I've already faced something that hates the divine more than you could possibly ever even believe. I have a feeling you aren't just going to tell us what it is you're doing here - but I haven't just started throwing my divinity at you yet, so you do have an opportunity to be truthful."
His gaze is neutral, but his tone is clearly one of someone who's not going to entertain this much longer.
"What I'm going to do is simple. I'm going to get up," he does that, "I'm going to walk past you and I'm going to walk out of here," Is his answer, "Do what you will with the rest of this place."
"Why, praytell, would we let someone who consorts with such as your allies, walk out of here?" Moore asks. "You're going to cause us all sorts of trouble eventually, if this is where you've decided to start your..." A gesture of Moore's hand. "Whatever it is you want to call it - mission?"
'I don't have much intention of letting him leave.' He says to the others. 'He's dangerous, obviously.'
'Extremely,' Cresiel agrees, 'Arrogant and confident too.'
"Because if I do not return home safely and of my own free will in the next eight hours," The creature declares, "My agents will move. Pointless mayhem and murder on many Primes. Countless innocents will die. That's why."
"I'm willing to risk that to deal with you here." Moore says with a smile. It isn't a kind smile. "So, what do you think your chances are against all four of us?"
With a chuckle, "I think the better question is - what are your odds against me?" he asks right back.
"Arrogance and evil," Xandra says, "No. We will not waste this chance to excise you from Creation like the consumptive sickness that you are."
"Very well." Moore says with a bright smile. "Let's find out."
Since Moore's next move is going to be something init-related, we can probably go to that, but he does have Supreme so he's going to beat this joker unless SURPRISE???
Go for it. After your turn I'll roll init for the rest.
"I'll show you the courage all of my allies have to face things like you!" Moore shouts, as power swells up in his allies.
Destined Strike - +6 to attack and damage rolls, Improved Critical Feat, +26 to threat confirmation rolls. This is his move action
At the same time, an invisible lance of power strikes out at this individual!
Divine Blast.
[22:54] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+77 touch
[22:54] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+77 touch --> [ 1d20=4 ]{81}
[22:54] <Nephrite> roll 29d12
[22:54] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 29d12 --> [ 29d12=205 ]{205}
[22:55] <Nephrite> roll 1d100 miss chance if needed
[22:55] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d100 miss chance if needed --> [ 1d100=84 ]{84}
May as well save you a step:
[10:10] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+23+26 init Cresiel
[10:10] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+23+26 init Cresiel --> [ 1d20=18 ]{67}
[10:10] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+11+26 init Xandra
[10:10] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+11+26 init Xandra --> [ 1d20=17 ]{54}
[10:10] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+38+26 init sylvie
[10:10] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+38+26 init sylvie --> [ 1d20=6 ]{70}
Your strike hits the figure dead on - and it falls apart. Into a pile of melting snow, nothing more than snow and ice left behind.
Your arcane knowledge lets you know these are the ingredients to a simulacrum spell, though this manifestation of it suggests that this isn't a normal, unmodified version of it.
'Of course they wouldn't even be here.' Moore says. 'This bears further investigation, especially of this place. I doubt even he, for all his bluster, could manage to defeat what the Guardian put in place here.'
Can I take 10 on spellcrafty things for 120 to do all that caster identification stuff or do I just fail since this is probably from the same caster as before? If not, I'll put the snow in a jar or something to take with us to identify later.
Nothing.You're 100% sure you're being blocked now by an excessively powerful spellcaster. At least this confirms it.
Jarring some of the snow is simple enough.
'Hm. Someone on the level of Medi? Maybe. What's everyone's opinion here? Mine is to keep exploring.'
Does this room seem to have any exits?
Yes, it continues on normally.
'We continue on,' Cresiel says, 'If only to find answers.'
'I agree,' Xandra seconds.
Sylvie's quieter, 'Let's ask one important question first: How much is this worth to us?'
'It's someone who knows who we are, and has enough pride to stand in our way. They could be an ally to Shar, or someone who would oppose us. I think it's worth enough to keep going - especially since they seem to have taken some interest in a place like this.' Is his answer.
Thus, he continues forward.
'I know where you're going with this though Sylvie - Is this ultimately something that we 'need' to investigate... I think it is, if only because it would be rare if this was a situation that wasn't connected more deeply to things we're involved in.'
'We don't need to do it, but that doesn't mean it may be the wrong choice to continue,' Sylvie responds. "I think it may be the right choice to go on.'
Moore nods and will continue on.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 79, total 79[/blockquote] If needed.
'Jetina, if you're still having trouble getting information out of them, feel free to reach out to Vel Custos. He may have some ideas of who can help with it.'
'We're all working on it - including Erathaol. We're almost there.' Is Jetina's answer.
'Erathaol's gotten involved.' Moore says to the others as he proceeds onwards. 'Interesting day so far.'
'More than I expected,' Sylvie admits. When you reach the second stairway at last, you find the way is barred by more metal slabs.
Yet another Divine Blast will clear the way. He can do this all day, practically.
He will continue on!
Another blast. Another stairway. Another metal slab barrier at the bottom.
Moore huffs.
"If we run into another one, I'll let you handle it." Moore says as another Divine Blast removes this barrier as well.
I've used 6 so far, for my own notekeeping. I have... 23? left.
It's the exact same setup - down to the same being in the same outfit.
"You're late," he notes, "Not very fast, are you?"
Moore will move to just proceed on and past - knowing this is a simulacrum - or something similar - he has no concern or reason to even speak to this being.
As you do it rises to challenge you, "Really now, I'm not going to let you ignore me without a tussle," he declares. "You're not that boring, are you?"
"I don't care what you want, I admit." Moore says. "But by all means, cast a spell on me from your snowy self."
He's still flying to go past, even with this!
Init. You have Supreme so go first.
[21:45] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+23+26 init Cresiel
[21:45] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+23+26 init Cresiel --> [ 1d20=19 ]{68}
[21:45] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+11+26 init Xandra
[21:45] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+11+26 init Xandra --> [ 1d20=10 ]{47}
[21:45] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+38+26 init sylvie
[21:45] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+38+26 init sylvie --> [ 1d20=4 ]{68}
Moore simply flies on along and past, towards the end of the room / hallway.
'We'll see if he can actually do anything through these false selves, I suppose.' He says to the others.
> roll 1d20+23
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+23 --> [ 1d20=16 ]{39}
> roll 1d20 will do the math if this is low, inspiration spent to + attack
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20 will do the math if this is low, inspiration spent to + attack --> [ 1d20=2 ]{2}
Glancing Sylvie's bonuses insure a hit and damage isn't terribly relevant here.
Sylvie and Cresiel are next - and Sylvie pauses to smash his face, a single blow that reduces it to snow and ice.
"Cold to the touch," Sylvie notes dispassionately, "They aren't built to endure serious force or combat. Someone's specialized in simulacrums. I may have to pick his mind about this afterwards."
"Hm. You know, I have to wonder if we're in an illusion." Moore says. "I can't detect the magic, and if that's the case I don't know how we'd know if we were."
"A sufficiently powerful illusionist," Xandra murmurs, "One strong enough to fool even our senses?"
"It's not impossible," Sylvie says, "The problem of true seeing along with the limitations of illusions is something any dedicated archmage illusionist works against." She slips into a lecture, gesturing with a single pointed finger. "One who has reached the pinnacles of talent could fool anyone if they can suppress their magic to see past or understand the illusions."
"I suppose we could test the theory by going back?" He asks. "Or... instead of proceeding down by going forward, I could try and make us another way?" He gestures towards the floor. "I'm open to options."
"Try something," Sylvie agrees. "Xandra?"
"I don't see misfortune," Xandra responds, "Act as you will."
Moore turns to one of the walls and sends a Divine Blast at it!
[22:41] <Nephrite> roll 29d12
[22:41] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 29d12 --> [ 29d12=222 ]{222}
If it's needed.
You bore right through the wall, a tunnel made by the blast.
'I feel like this is likely still an illusion, but let's proceed this way and see what happens.' Moore says. He proceeds, but as he does?
Guardian, I know you're gone, but I speak to whatever is likely left here in charge of this place. I know not who this person is who's entered and seemed to take residence, but I ask for your help in ridding this prison of them.
He may as well try and see if anything happens.
Nothing happens. As you go the hole begins to rapidly close - and beyond it you can see absolute blankness, nothingness.
Just to be clear, this isn't a situation where I can't see ahead, I can 'see' ahead through the tunnel just fine, but it's like it's just an endless void rather than it being dark because this place is special, correct?
Correct.
Moore nods, seemingly satisfied with that.
"All right, so I doubt our guest could have done anything else..." Moore rubs his chin. "Let me try down."
Another Divine Blast, this time into the floor below them.
[21:27] <Nephrite> roll 29d12
[21:27] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 29d12 --> [ 29d12=207 ]{207}
A blast down. Straight down is more of that emptiness.
Sylvie kneels, "Whatever this is, it's not the normal First Prison. We might be able to escape if we go out, or we might get ourselves into even more trouble. My guess is that something deeper in here is behind this, something imprisoned in here for a long time."
"And the servants?" A question back.
"Favors, minions, something this strong has ways and means," Sylvie says, even as the floor begins to seal itself shut once more.
"Hm." Moore makes a non-committal noise. "Maybe it has something to do with why they were killing the things trapped here. Perhaps less prisoners makes the First Prison by its nature... weaker? I may be overthinking it. Perhaps what we've run into so far is a manifestation of what's trapped here, but they've been able to escape enough to take over? But it sounds like we may just have to play along, if we intend to try and get to the bottom of this."
Another sigh. "Here I thought this would be easy... But it's good we came across this place when we did, or else something worse may have happened." He says. "Either way, we either continue on or turn around - I imagine there's a limit to how long they can delay us, either way."
"Then forward," Cresiel says sternly, "We will not run from the enemy."
"Try and think of something we might be able to do if we really are trapped in an illusion." Moore says. "But I wonder if it isn't an illusion and it's just someone able to manipulate the First Prison on some level? Hm..."
A shake of his head again as he goes forward - likely to another metal-barred door.
What's your intelligence score?
39, if you mean just the bonus, +14.
High enough. Give me an Intelligence check.
[21:59] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+14+21
[21:59] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+14+21 --> [ 1d20=14 ]{49} Includes Greater Improvisation and dvr
> roll 1d20+17 Cresiel
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+17 Cresiel --> [ 1d20=2 ]{19}
> roll 1d20+26 Sylvie ironically Intelligence is her weakest stat check due to how brains over everything works
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+26 Sylvie ironically Intelligence is her weakest stat check due to how brains over everything works --> [ 1d20=10 ]{36}
It's subtle, but there's ripples as you walk. Distortions. Things that don't add up. Sylvie's eyes lock on them as well.
Breakdowns.
Like a great golem coming to a shuddering, broken stop. Ripples in the shape of your divine blasts, repeating again and again.
"Did I ever tell you about that time we got caught inside a genius loci?" Moore asks. "It looks like this is rather similar to me. Perhaps even our master illusionist can't keep their trick up forever."
"It's the shape of your blasts," Sylvie remarks as you go, "A divine blast is too much, even for - !" A sudden suction, a sudden burst as...
Fortitude all.
[22:18] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+52+18+8 Cresiel, mettle --> [ 1d20=17 ]{95}
[22:18] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+65+8+18 Xandra has a really high fort score, wow
[22:18] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+65+8+18 Xandra has a really high fort score, wow --> [ 1d20=2 ]{93}
[22:19] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+50+8+18 not sure if Sylvie has mettle or not, I don't think so unless she cheats
[22:19] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+50+8+18 not sure if Sylvie has mettle or not, I don't think so unless she cheats --> [ 1d20=11 ]{87}
[22:19] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+63+8+18 Moore, mettle
[22:19] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+63+8+18 Moore, mettle --> [ 1d20=3 ]{92}
Actually I forgot that with the bonus to Charisma everyone would get a slightly higher score than these but I am going to assume these all pass whatever the DC is anyway.
All of you brace as you pushed back - but you refuse to move. Not a one of you is moved back as the ripples spread, more and more by the moment.
"I can't say I like the idea of being at the center of this collapsing... whatever it is." Moore says. "Suggestions - ideally fast ones?"
"Defense," Sylvie snaps, "Walls and spheres of force around ourselves, now!"
"It's the best idea I have," Xandra agrees, starting to conjure exactly that.
"The one time Jetina's antimagic zone spell would be helpful." Moore laments as he focuses on creating a spherical wall of force around them with his divine will!
Cresiel utters a word of negation at that, as reality stops.
You stand just inside the First Prison, just past where you fought the nycaloth and his allies. Shreds and wisps of magic flare around you, fading into nothing under Cresiel's prohibition.
Guess who has antimagic zone as a domain spell?
"You know, I guess it shows how much more I have to learn that I didn't even think to try antimagic ray or something." A sigh as he rubs his forehead. "Anyway... shall we continue?"
"We didn't come on that until just before we put it together," Sylvie shakes her head, "This one isn't your fault, Moore. It's easy for us to forget to consider such things, since we usually see the magic behind them. It's rare to meet a caster who can stop us like that."
"Honestly, I'm a bit surprised I was right that it was just illusion magic. I blame my fey heritage for guessing that - but at least we have the most direct counter to it." Moore says. "At any rate, let's take a look around - for real, this time."
Plan will be to look for prisoners again now that we're not in an illusion!
For my own reference, Perception for tomorrow.
120
You begin to walk.
A ripple.
Something hides against the wall and in the shadows, almost able to hide from you. Almost.
"Go ahead and come out." Moore says. "We're not here to wantonly kill you - despite what your boss might say."
A stumble - the same man as before, red skinned and masked, comes out. Blood leaks out from behind the mask and he struggles to stay upright.
"Aha, let me guess - you're not the leader at all, are you?" He asks. "You're someone they sent to play at the role?"
A gesture - his divine will manifests into a Heal spell for the bleeding one.
A gurgle that ceases at that heal spell.
He slowly straightens himself, "That's right," he says right away, "I'll tell you what I know and who your true enemy is, then leave and leave all of you to what you wish to do here."
"Go on." Moore says. "You already know what happens if you lie, so I suggest not doing that."
A gesture for him to go on.
Take 10 for 100 on Sense Motive for whatever he says.
Well, first of all he just lied to you, to be clear. Stone cold lies.
"As you just did, for example. You have no more chances after this, so let's go ahead and start over from the beginning." Moore says, his smile still present as it was earlier.
"You can either speak the truth starting now or come back with us where you won't have a choice." Moore says.
Another gesture for him to start talking. As well as a wall of force that pops up on the end of the hallway so he can't run from them!
Take 10 for 130 on intimidate if that's called for.
He starts to talk and freezes - even more when Cresiel comes over and looms over him, expression completely relentless, unyielding.
"It's Anthraxus," he cries right away, "He's expanding into this place, the former Oinoloth!"
More lies, incidentally.
Moore sighs. "Is your master more terrifying than we are?" He asks. "Last warning before we take you back and force the answers out of you under the light of Chronias itself."
Sylvie steps forward as he says, "The truth is that Beezlebub is behind it, the Lord of the Seventh Hell!"
And that's more lies, straight from the source.
"I wonder if he actually can't speak truthfully?" Moore asks. "Either way, disable him and take him back, we can ask Lord Erathoal or someone else to help us, as this is clearly not getting us anywhere."
As Sylvie takes care of it, "Let's all go back this time and get to the bottom of this," Cresiel agrees, "We have found quite the mystery."
Moore raises a hand.
"A moment." Moore says. "What can we install here to know if anyone else comes in or out while we do that?"
"I can't think of anything off hand," Sylvie admits, "Can you?"
"Other than a basic alarm or scrying spell, nothing. I'll ask for some assistance. But... before anything, I want to see something." Moore says as he goes down the hall to check one of the cages - he wants to see if everything here is still asleep like last time.
Yes, they are.
"We're going to try something too." Moore says. "Let me try on my own, if this fails you can all try when we get back."
Plan is to try and take one of the prisoners out. Not sure if I can do another rank check since last time but if so here it is. The exact prisoner doesn't matter.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 10 + 4, total 14[/blockquote]
Have you gained divine rank since last time?
The last time I was 1, this time I am 4.
It's far easier this time. You don't think a mortal could do it, but you as you are now? At least from here ti can be done, as you...
Where exactly are you going?
Trying to take the individual out of the prison. Last time we tried we got prevented from doing so and everyone ended up losing their rank checks against the First Prison's - so basically Moore is trying again to see if he can beat it or not. :)
Okay, but -where- out of the prison?
Oh, I see where there's confusion, Out of the First Prison by the same way we came in - the front entrance.
You appear just outside of the First Prison, by the front entrance.
Okay, now I think there's been even more confusion - did Moore manage to effectively teleport with his divine will with a prisoner to the outside of the prison?
I had meant he was just going to take someone out of a cell and walk them to the entrance and try and leave, but if he can just teleport out with them that's fine too.
Oh. I thought you were teleporting for some reason. I have no idea where that came from.
You are able to walk out with the prisoner, sure enough.
"...Something's different this time." Moore says. "Cresiel, will you try as well? Last time there was a force that kept the prisoners in here, and this time I didn't sense that at all."
Cresiel tries and the prisoner comes in and out - just a human in this case.
"I don't feel a thing," Cresiel concurs.
Moore nods.
'Lord Zaphkiel, I do not ask this of you lightly, but we have a situation at the First Prison. I realize that you do not have any authority over this place, but would you be able to watch it for us while we try and figure out what is going on?'
Yes.
Do not neglect your growth with my knowledge, but so be it.
'Thank you.'
Moore nonetheless casts Wish several times to create a few scrying sensors around the area - that should tide them over for the few hours this may take.
Basically an upped version of Scrying that are invisible and have an Alarm spell tied into them if anything happens to them.
We're ready to go back and get some answers after level ups.
Heading back home then?
Yes. Actually, we still can't planar shift from right here, correct? Just to make sure that's still intact (it obviously was like an hour ago when we showed up the first time, but you never know)
But yes if we can't we'll make the trip back by flying with our prisoners.
d100.
[22:01] <Nephrite> roll 1d100
[22:01] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=25 ]{25}
Your trip back is safe and...
Congratulations, you've reached level up time! We'll start with likely prisoner interrogation after the level up break.