B 001

[Corwin]

[17:51] <Anastasia> ----------
[17:54] <Anastasia> Sure, there are bows and devils and horrible things one day. But a few days have passed and put all of that unpleasantness away. As a week wears on in pleasant reverie, one afternoon finds the three vacationers without much to do. The villa you're staying in is quite pleasant. Jessica's reading a book while Antenora goes through spearwork, going back and forth with a methodical, constantly and flawlessly repeated pattern. It's ever so slow,
[17:54] <Anastasia>  constantly and flawlessly repeated pattern. It's ever so slow, so quiet...so boring, really. It's not even raining outside! IT's sunny and bright as could be.
[17:56] <Marielle> "You know, you could be doing this stuff at home," Marie pipes up, trying to inject some life into the proceedings. "Maybe there's a party or a festival or something going on right now, and we could be having fun there instead?"
[17:59] <Anastasia> Jessica looks up from her book, "But I am having fun. We've been doing exciting things the last few weeks. A day off isn't a bad thing at all. If you're restless, why don't you drag Antenora out with you and do something?"
[18:03] <Marielle> "Oh..." Marie can't really condone the group splitting up since Alicia wanted them to stay together in case of trouble. Floating over she alights herself on Jessica's head and looks down at the pages. "What're you reading, then?"
[18:05] <Anastasia> Jessica reaches up to pat Marie's head. The book is in Elven, "It's Elven poetry and philosphy. It's very interesting and different from human works. I've been studying it so I don't understand everything yet, but there's such an emphasis on time and patience. You know," Rolling her eyes up to see Marie and smiling, "I was using a little of that just now. You're always so restless and you have forever. Why not savor things more?"
[18:07] <Anastasia> Meanwhile Antenora practices, "Because chaos is like a restless child. It has to keep doing and seeing and touching and moving and a thousand other active things." Swish goes her spear, "Still...Marie hit on a point blindly. If we're in any sort of danger, standing still makes us easy prey. Further, we should enjoy this while it lasts. This is the first real vacation I've ever had, and I'm over six hundred years old. There's no point in squa
[18:07] <Anastasia> I'm over six hundred years old. There's no point in squandering it."
[18:08] <Marielle> "But isn't it better to do something than to read about it?" Marie reasons. She then nods to Antenora, "That's what I'm getting at - you can read poetry and practice with your spear in Balmuria, and you'll have plenty of time to do it when we go back. We should make the most of being here while we can!"
[18:10] <Anastasia> "Oh, very well." Marie ears Jessica sigh, though she's sporting a more agreeable smile now. "I'll go get us some fruits and wine and we'll go have a rest somewhere and look about."
[18:11] <Marielle> "At worst we can have a picnic and you two can at least do your reading and practicing out in the sun!" Marie exclaims cheerily as she takes to the air once more. "But I bet if we look hard enough we can find something exciting going on."
[18:11] <Anastasia> "We could still visit the Seven-Fold temple of Elysium," Antenora pointedly adds with a throat clearing cough. "Unless you're planning any other rendevous with Esthan?"
[18:12] <Marielle> "It was hardly planned!" Marie pouts. "But the temple could be interesting, sure. Anything's better than just sitting around in here."
[18:13] <Anastasia> Jessica laughs a little and gets up, "Antenora, instead of instinctively picking at her, you could enjoy her endless happiness." Jessica chides a little bit, leaving the room and gathering things together.
[18:13] <Marielle> "Yes, you should enjoy me!" Marie simpers as she flutters briefly in front of Antenora before laughing and prancing around the room.
[18:15] <Anastasia> Antenora opens her mouth a few times to reply, but she doesn't seem to be able to formulate an acceptable reply. Instead she goes to get her spear, a look of amusement on her face, coupled with a smirk. "Let's just go," she says at last.
[18:18] * Marielle waits on Jessica but is otherwise amenable to departing. "So, anyway," she changes the subject. "Have you ever thought about a new title?"
[18:19] <Anastasia> "Hm?" Antenora asks, takin ga moment to adjust the straps of her armor, letting the breastplate sag before retightening it. Her attention is primarily on that for the moment. "What do you mean?"
[18:20] <Marielle> "Well, you know how you used to be Della the Bloodflier? And now you're just Antenora?" Marie explains, "Have you ever thought about tacking on a new sobriquet? I've been thinking about getting one for myself, so I wanted to know how it goes for you."
[18:22] <Anastasia> With a momentary, faint smile, "Antenora means enough to me. I don't need any other name." Finishing with her armor now, "What about yourself? Marie the dreadful Abyss-bane? Marie the Slayer of Siege-Engines? Marie, Dutchess of Celestials with Infernals courting them?"
[18:24] <Marielle> "Those are all good," Marie nods without a trace of irony. "You know, I used to work for the Keeper of Names, before I got sent here, and I always wanted her to give me a neat title, but she said it wasn't time. But since I've done all these impressive things, I think it might be the right time."
[18:26] <Anastasia> "Alicia's done far more than you or me," Crossing her arms here as Jessica returns, a basket carried along, "She's not known as anything but Alicia still. If she hasn't earned one, why do you think you're due one?"
[18:27] <Marielle> "Well how did you earn your old one, then?" Marie asks. "Or is that the sort of question I'm going to regret asking?"
[18:29] <Anastasia> With a half smirk, half grimace, "You'd really rather not know," Looking ot Jessica now, "Let's go," she says quickly, taking a solid and ground eating pace out.
[18:30] * Marielle wisely elects not to press further as she zips on out into the sunshine.
[18:35] <Anastasia> Thus the trio head out! It' sindeed bright, as much as the gentle trees about the Citadel allow it to be. You walk out past a few discreet elven guards, placed about by order of Celebrimbor. Once out into the city proper, the duo ends up wandering. As they do, they pass one of many parks, detached from a pleasant villa. Here elves gather, a few hundred crammed in. From richly dressed nobles to relatively 'common' elves they horde about.
[18:35] <Anastasia> From richly dressed nobles to relatively 'common' elves they horde about.
[18:35] <Marielle> "See!" Marie points. "A festival! What did I tell you?"
[18:39] <Anastasia> As you approach, you can see that a golden colored crescent moon flag has been raised to one of the trees, and another and another. Several of these flap in the soft breezes that favor the lake surrounded capital. The crowd occasionally shifts back and forth, seeming to allow someone to walk through. "Curious?" Jessica slows and turns to view it. "It's not very good for a picnic, but it's interesting."
[18:40] * Marielle flies up into the air so she can see over the crowd at what exactly is going on.
[18:42] <Anastasia> Flying up, Marie can see that there is an elf walking in the crowd. He wears well used but superbly well made green clothes and carries a walking stick. His features are noble looking, with a confidence in his eyes. He reaches out to touch an elven woman, speaking quietly to her before going to another person.
[18:43] * Marielle flies back down. "It's some guy walking around and talking to people," she reports for the benefit of the others. "I don't think there's going to be any games or singing."
[18:45] <Anastasia> "It's a lot of attention for just a single elf," Antenora looks on, "WAnt to keep going or stick around?"
[18:46] <Marielle> "Maybe he's a noble or something?" Marie wonders, briefly glancing at the flags to see if she can work out what it symbolises.
[18:47] <Marielle> roll 1d20+8
[18:47] * Hatbot --> "Marielle rolls 1d20+8 and gets 18."12 [1d20=10]
[18:51] <Marielle> "He might be that cleric of Corellon we heard about, considering the flags," Marie then adds. "Anyway, I don't mind sticking around, but I doubt this is going to be terribly exciting for us."
[18:59] <Anastasia> "Let's keep going. I get enough religion at home," With a little teasing smile to Marie, "Not every moment has to be about the Gods."
[19:01] <Marielle> "There's only one that I really care about, anyway," Marie chirps easily, happy to move on.
[19:02] <Anastasia> As the party moves along and away, "Mystra must work in mysterious ways. I don't see how you fit her better than an elven God." Antenora comments.
[19:03] <Marielle> "Well it'd be pretty silly for me to worship the Lady of Mysteries my whole life and then wind up in the Star Court or Rillifane's domain, wouldn't it?" Marie reasons. "Mystra doesn't really care about law and chaos, that's why she can accept me and Alicia equally."
[19:04] <Anastasia> "Oh yes, how absent minded of me," Antenora looks openly irritated at that, rubbing the side of her head. "Let's just go, my brain is clearly not functioning today."
[19:06] * Marielle flies up and pats Antenora's head. "Want an eladrin head massage?" she offers generously.
[19:07] <Anastasia> "Pass," Antenora says, hurryinga long.
[19:08] <Marielle> "Awww," Marie pouts but doesn't push the issue.
[19:12] <Anastasia> Thereafter, Marie finds a park on the rim of the Citadel. Here the crystal clear lake that surrounds the city is nearby, Jessica putting a cloth down near. The view is superb here, seeing over the lake and to the forests of  Pallanth beyond. "Yes, let's have some fun. No worrying about religion or devils or chaos or law or anything." Saying the last two with looks at Marie and then Antenora, "Sometimes I'd think you two were so caught up in
[19:12] <Anastasia> "Sometimes I'd think you two were so caught up in talking about good that you don't have time to have any fun. Especially you," With a look to Antenora, "Marie at least is open. You're too focused."
[19:13] <Anastasia> "I have more fun in a moment here than I had in a centry in Hell," Antenora shrugs a little bit to that, looking out over the lake. "I don't need to constantly affirm it and flutter about."
[19:15] <Marielle> "She has fun with all the debating," Marie smiles as she alights on the cloth. "So anyway, who's up for a game of Fizzbin?"
[19:15] <Anastasia> "Isn't that the game where you keep making up the rules as you go?" Jessica smiles as she unpacks.
[19:16] <Marielle> "Oh," Marie deflates, "You rememberd, huh?"
[19:19] <Anastasia> Reaching out to gently pat Marie again, "Do you really want to play that with Antenora? But Marie," Switching gears there, "Since elves are closer to you than a human, have you seen any cute elves you like?"
[19:19] <Anastasia> Antenora stays standing for now, gaze over the lake. She doesn't comment, though her attention turns regularly towards the other two.
[19:20] <Marielle> "Honestly? They're a bit too tall for my liking," Marie admits. "I suppose Alicia can do that thing where she makes me big as well, but I don't really like that. It's fun to be different, but having to walk everywhere is a pain."
[19:21] <Anastasia> "That's true," Jessica leans back after putting out the food and drink, "The elves are a little too willowy for me. But I love the food, the drink, the culture...just not the elves so much."
[19:23] <Marielle> "Well," Marie smiles slyly as she floats up and nudges the side of Jessica's head, "I bet Roald will be pleased to hear that."
[19:25] <Anastasia> That gets a faint blush from Jessica, who sputters before shes peaks. "He will. We get along well." Looking down to her lap as her face burns, "He's so...nice and normal. You know, he makes me feel so safe when we're together."
[19:27] <Marielle> "That's good!" Marie smiles as she goes to collect some treats to snack on. "Something to look forward to for when we get home, then."
[19:28] <Anastasia> "Yes. I should introduce him formally to Alicia..." Letting her blush slowly die down, "Alicia's really the only family I know."
[19:28] <Anastasia> Antenora listens to all of this, "Do you love him," she asks, even as her gaze stays lakebound. "Or is it more of an infatuation?"
[19:28] <Marielle> "Well, she's met him a couple of times, but sure - bring him around the house more!" Marie encourages.
[19:30] <Anastasia> "Antenora!" Jessica blushes hotly at that, "Mind your own business at least that much! And I will bring him around," she promises after.
[19:32] <Anastasia> "Well, if you're not serious..." Antenora's voice has a little amusement, "But to move on, has Alicia talked about what she'll be doing after this trip?"
[19:33] <Marielle> "There's nothing wrong with infatuation, anyway," Marie puts in. "Anyway, I think she wanted to go to the Apex of the Contract to try and find a way to free all those creatures bound to protect the resort. I had another idea that might be better, though."
[19:35] <Anastasia> "What is it?" Antenora turns now, with a slight twist of her lips, "I'm sure the thought of having to go to the home of pure order got your brain working extra hard."
[19:35] <Anastasia> Jessica meanwhile pours herself a glass of wine, sipping that and eating some fruit. She smiles a little and looks out over the lake, laying back. "I wish we had a big lake by Balmuria. THe sea's too rough for my tastes."
[19:38] * Marielle giggles. "It wouldn't be very nice for me, no," she admits. "Anyway, I was thinking about how the spell worked, sort of taking all those fey out of time while they're within the warded area - it's a bit like the astral plane, actually, but that's not where I'm going with this."
[19:38] <Marielle> "Anyway, it's all about longevity and time. So if we went to Arvandor, I bet Labelas Enoreth would know a thing or two about how the enchantment was made, and how to safely bring it down."
[19:40] <Anastasia> roll 1d20+9
[19:40] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d20+9 and gets 20."12 [1d20=11]
[19:41] <Anastasia> "....mmm." Antenora considers this before she nods slowly. "That could be productive. The only problem I see is that if we find out that the enchantment is beyond our capacity to remove."
[19:42] <Marielle> "True, but if that's the case then the Apex of the Contract won't help us either. And if we can't take it down then we'll need someone else's help - someone like say the elven god of time?" Marie goes on.
[19:43] <Anastasia> "Mmmmm." Thinking again to that, "I'd want to try both of those before we go trying to get a Goddess to intervene, even for a good reason. But you have a decently good point."
[19:43] <Anastasia> "You know, we could talk about something besides, I don't know, work?" Jessica drains her glass, "Really. Can't we just enjoy the day and not talk about Gods and planes and time and all of that?"
[19:46] <Marielle> "Okay!" Marie agrees brightly. "Want to hear a joke?"
[19:46] <Anastasia> Antenora rolls her eyes, "Jessica, I understand, but these things are important."
[19:47] <Anastasia> "Yes, a joke," Jessica nods easily, pouring herself another glass. "Want one," she offers Marie and Antenora. "What's a good joke, Marie?"
[19:48] * Marielle has to be very careful about sipping from a wineglass and can't even hold it properly, so forgoes the alcohol. "A horse walks into a bar and the barkeep says 'Why the long face?'"
[19:56] <Anastasia> "Why?" Jessica replies dutifully.
[19:56] <Anastasia> Antenora shakes her head, not getting an answer. She sweeps her gaze about, looking behind Jessica and Marie rather intently.
[19:58] <Marielle> "Uh..." Marie looks disappointed. "It's a horse? You know, they have long faces?" she gestures with her hand as if extending her own head. "But asking someone 'why the long face' is like asking why they're sad? The different meanings make it funny." She briefly looks towards Antenora in a perhaps futile bid for support.
[19:58] <Anastasia> "...ooooooh!" Jessica laughs just a little, "Oh, that was the entire joke?"
[19:58] <Anastasia> Antenora's gaze is looking at something behind Jessica and Marie. For a moment her hand is on her spear, though it drops away after.
[20:00] <Marielle> "I guess it wasn't the best one ever," Marie sighs, before trying to follow Antenora's gaze and tossing out some faerie fire at wherever she seems to be looking. If she's spotted some invisible goon then that should illuminate them.
[20:03] <Anastasia> As Marie looks, she sees the object of the gaze. A woman wearing a cloak and hood walks towards them, pulling down the hood as she comes closer. Latha's face is seen, a pleasant smile as she approaches. "I had heard there was a pixie or eladrin like creature openly in town. I wondered if it was you."
[20:04] * Marielle has never met Latha so doesn't actually recognise her. "Uh, hello?" she at least forgoes the faerie fire since its a bit pointless if the person isn't invisible.
[20:05] <Anastasia> "She's a friend," Antenora breaks a smile to her, and keeping her voice down, "What brings you to the Citadel of Light? I doubt you're on vacation yourself."
[20:06] <Anastasia> "Oh, hello," Jessica says with a warmness, "Sit down if you'd like."
[20:07] <Anastasia> "No, I can't stay too long. I'm hunting." Her face has a smile of contentment and light at that, "I don't require rest regardless, and time enough to another time."
[20:07] <Marielle> "Hunting?" Marie perks up. "Are you after Esthan, too?"
[20:07] <Anastasia> "Esthan?" Antenora asks just after Marie.
[20:08] <Anastasia> "Yes. I was half afraid you'd have had something to do with him if you wer ehere," Latha looks the three over, "What of Alicia? Are all of you well? By chance did you send him packing back to the Nine Hells?"
[20:09] <Anastasia> Jessica just smiles politely, turning her attention to the lake. "We're all fine, Alicia's elseware anyway."
[20:11] <Marielle> "Alicia's off in the North, something about a dragon," Marie answers. "I ran into Esthan, but wasn't able to send him back." She looks a bit guilty, "Didn't actually fight him at all."
[20:11] <Anastasia> "Really now?" With a long look at Marie, Latha sits down on the grass. "Come here," she says warmly, "Tell me about what happened."
[20:15] * Marielle flies over towards Latha. "He said his master wanted to be friends with mine, and that there's a band of Vrocks running around near Balmuria that we should take care of. I didn't fight him since he said he'd focus on killing all the elves around if I did, and I don't think I'd have been able to beat him quickly enough to stop it," she tries to excuse her failure.
[20:15] <Marielle> It made sense at the time but more and more she thinks she should've done something. Alicia will almost certainly think so.
[20:26] <Anastasia> Latha listens well to it, "Alright, I understand. I'm hunting him, though he's proving to be a very elusive prey. I'm not sure what his game is, but he needs to be stopped. Whomever his master is..." Latha stops there, "I know he hails from Nessus, though I know not to who he directly bends a knee to."
[20:27] <Anastasia> "If he's from Nessus, it means he's working for a pit fiend or a Duke of Nessus, likely." Antenora adds to this.
[20:28] <Marielle> "I mentioned that Martinet has it in for Alicia and he said he wasn't worried," Marie offers helpfully, "That could either mean his master is already an enemy of Martinet, or it could mean that his master is Martinet and he's playing us."
[20:29] <Anastasia> "Or that he doesn't expect to be caught at it," Antenora adds as well.
[20:30] <Anastasia> "Regardless of who is behind this, a devil from Nessus can't be allowed to wander freely. I took the task of hunting him down. He's proved to be a troublesome quarry, as word of mouth about him is worthless and he hides his trails superbly well."
[20:30] * Marielle nods. "Alicia and Antenora tried hunting him a while ago but had no luck. They got a gelugon that was working for him, though."
[20:33] <Anastasia> "Heavens bless them," With a grateful look to Antenora, who returns it with a momentarily contente dsmile, "I'm worried that he may be a Cornugon, a Paeliryon or even a pit fiend. Not only will he leave a trail of death and corruption behind him...the potential to cause evil at a moment's notice is overwhelming."
[20:36] <Anastasia> "If I have another chance, I'll end him," Antenora promises, "We've had two chances at him now and he's walked away both times. It's intolerable."
[20:37] <Marielle> "From his aura he's definitely a greater fiend," Marie nods. "Hopefully we'll be able to catch him soon in a less populated area, then we can take him down!"
[20:39] <Anastasia> "I'm going to try to do the same. Thank you for the information, and the lords of the light bless you," Latha stands now, "Pass on Alicia my regards and what I said. I hope to see you again after passing judgment on Esthan."
[20:40] <Marielle> "Blessings of the Weave to you. And good hunting!" Marie returns. "Drop by any time, too."
[20:40] <Anastasia> After a moment of that, "Demedais and Seira too. They're in as much danger from Esthan as anyone, or perhaps even more."
[20:41] <Anastasia> "Good luck. If you need our help, come to us." Antenora reaches out to put a hand on Latha's shoulder. "If he's too strong for you alone, that means we'll all have to take the time to kill him."
[20:41] <Anastasia> Jessica turns back to the conversation, "Careful, yes. Mystra watch over you."
[20:42] <Marielle> "Demedais is probably safe. Apparently Esthan and Helm are all buddy buddy," Marie comments with a frown.
[20:42] <Anastasia> "...really?" Latha raises an eyebrow, attention all on Marie. "Tell me about it."
[20:44] <Marielle> "I only heard second hand from Alicia, but Antenora was there when Demedais explained it," Marie gestures to the erinyes. "Something about Demedais escorting Esthan between Balmuria and that town where Alicia and Antenora killed the Gelugon."
[20:45] <Anastasia> "It was about a pact Helm had with Esthan or some such. It stayed his hand and allowed Esthan to sue him as a bodyguard and escort." Antenora's voice turns chilly here, "Do not underestimate him. He's shown twice that he's willing to take risks to mock us."
[20:46] <Anastasia> "Parsifal, by the way," Anenora adds to Marie's words
[20:46] <Anastasia> .
[20:46] <Marielle> "That's it, thanks," Marie nods.
[20:46] <Anastasia> "I...see." Latha's own words are restrained, "This speaks of resourcefulness or support beyond the pale. I'll investigate this matter as well when I can."
[20:47] <Marielle> "Just be careful, and feel free to come get us if you need any help," Marie offers, "I know Alicia would say that herself if she was here."
[20:49] <Anastasia> "Thank you. Until we meet again," Latha pulls up her hood and starts to walk away. Once she's gone, "Bastard..." Antenora goes to sit now, "It's good to see another person after him, though."
[20:51] <Marielle> "He is annoying," Marie nods, going to help herself to a strawberry.
[20:55] <Anastasia> "Hell with him," Antenora puts her spear aside, looking out at the lake. "I'm just going to rest and not let him ruin another day."
[20:56] <Marielle> "We are having bad luck with that," Marie agrees, dipping her strawberry in some cream and taking giant bites that seem more like nibbles to people on the scale of Antenora and Jessica. "Oh well. Anyone else got any jokes?"
[20:59] <Anastasia> "I have one about the courre, the soup pot and a paladin," Antenora says, half ligthening her voice.
[21:00] <Marielle> "I'll be very surprised if this makes me laugh," Marie deadpans.
[21:02] <Anastasia> "That's just because you're chaotic," Antenora smirks, "You lack the sophistication to really appreciate structured humor."
[21:03] <Marielle> "I'll tell you about structure - you have set up, and you have a punchline. What more do you need?"
[21:05] <Anastasia> "The skill to carft the set up correctly and lead it into the punchline. If you're so good at those jokes then, do you have one that'll make me laugh, hm?" Antenora challenges.
[21:08] <Marielle> "Alright. What do you call a deer with no eyes?" Marie asks.
[21:09] <Anastasia> "I give up," Antenora banters right back.
[21:09] <Marielle> "No eye deer!"
[21:11] <Anastasia> Antenora blinks a moment before groaning very loudly and letting her head fall into her hand. "That's terrible," she laments. "Jessica, wasn't that terrible?"
[21:11] <Marielle> "Wait! Wait! I'm not done!" Marie exclaims. "What do you call a deer with no eyes and no legs?"
[21:12] <Anastasia> Jessica turns from her wine and reverie, chuckling. "I thought it was pretty funny. No idea! No eye deer!" She smiles widely at it, and then, "What do you call it, Marie?"
[21:12] <Marielle> "*Still* no eye deer!" Marie replies, grinning widely.
[21:14] <Anastasia> Jessica laughs openly at that, filling the air with her m irth. Antenora groans again, louder and almost pained. "Those are so horrible that they loop around and are almost funny again."
[21:16] <Marielle> "I thought it was great the first time I heard it," Marie admits. "Okay, I prefer the short and sweet ones, but maybe you'll prefer something more involved?"
[21:16] <Anastasia> "Sure," Antenora says, leaning back and waiting.
[21:18] <Marielle> "Okay," Marie settles in to tell her tale, "There's this ranger, right? Famous hunter, he hears a story that there's this giant bear out in the forest that no one has ever been able to bring down. He thinks to himself that it'd surely be no match for him, so he packs up some supplies and his trusty bow, then goes hunting, right?"
[21:19] <Anastasia> Antenora nods, "Alright, go on."
[21:20] <Marielle> "Right, so he's out prowling through the forest, then on the third day he feels something tap his shoulder. He's startled since he never heard anything approaching him, so he jumps up and turns around - and it's this gigantic dire bear standing right behind him!"
[21:22] <Anastasia> "Really?" Antenora asks, listening along.
[21:24] <Marielle> "The bear snatches his bow out of his hands and snaps it in half before he can blink, and then... it talks! It says to him, 'You came here to hunt me, didn't you? Well I'll give you a choice - you can either bend over and let me sodomise you, or I'll kill you and eat you.'" Marie quickly presses on less this be mistaken for the punchline.
[21:24] <Marielle> "Well, a few days later he returns to the town with a sore bottom, and he's absolutely furious! So he buys a new bow - a magic anti-bear bow! And he buys a whole bundle of magic arrows of accuracy to go with it, and then he goes back out into the forest."
[21:25] <Anastasia> "Well," Antenora's eyebrow raises, but she continues to listen.
[21:29] <Marielle> "Well, he's sneaking around through the trees, being very careful and cautious... and wouldn't you know it, there's a tap on his shoulder? It's the same bear and it offers him the same deal. Gritting his teeth, he swears revenge for the indignity and returns to the town again with a sore bottom. This time he buys a cloak of hiding and boots of silent steps, so that he can sneak up on the bear instead."
[21:29] <Marielle> "So once more he goes out into the forest. As stealthy as can be, he sneaks around for days to locate the bear, being super careful the whole time. But despite it all, on the third day he feels a tap on his shoulder."
[21:29] <Marielle> She pauses for dramatic effect, "'You're not really here for the hunting, are you?' asks the bear."

[Corwin]

[18:44] <Kolunchandstuff> -------------------(Wall ko goes here)--
[18:46] <Kolunchandstuff> Over a week passes, treasure gathering, reading and practicing going by. It's a warmer, windy day when Kortan Chillander arrives at Dewfrost. His villa there is marvelous, meeting him in a grand hall inside. He offers his hand to Seira, Alicia and Demedais in turn. "Thank you. The dragon's turn to hostility was cut off by your efforts."
[18:47] * Kolunchandstuff is now known as Kotono
[18:48] <Seira> "It is a shame we had to meet under such circumstances. A friendly dragon could've been quite a boon for us," Seira responds after shaking the proffered hand.
[18:49] * Demedais nods, a bit of sweat still leftover on his brow as he shakes Chillander's hand. "What had to be done was done."
[18:49] <Alicia> "It is fortunate we did not arrive any later or it would have been a far greater tragedy," Alicia notes as she firmly returns the handshake proferred.
[18:49] <Kotono> "I'm glad your timing was so good," Chillander says in agreement, "I had hoped it was friendly as well, unlike Kondrux that attacked your nation. Nonetheless..." A pause here, the handshakes returned. "I'd like to honor each o fyou for your gallantry and bravery."
[18:52] <Alicia> "That's very kind of you," Alicia smiles, ducking her head. "It was only the right thing to do, for our part."
[18:53] <Kotono> "I'm going to award the three of you an order of honor from our family, the Order of the White Horizon. Further, the mountains in the tundra are nameless. I'd like to give the three of you the honor of naming them."
[18:55] * Demedais blinks, before looking to Seira. "I'm honored. However, as for the mountains, since they should likely have an Elvish name, I will leave it to the other two."
[18:56] <Seira> "How about Amaryl? It's a nice, elven name," Seira suggests.
[18:56] <Alicia> "Mount Amaryl?" Alicia asks, raising her eyebrow and stoicly refraining from any giggling.
[18:57] * Demedais shrugs, before eyeing Alicia a bit sharply.
[18:57] <Kotono> Kortan Chillander's face stays composed. "Mount Amaryl?" He does raise his eyebrow as well. "Perhaps the Amaryl range is more proper a name? Or the Amaryls?"
[18:57] * Alicia returns Demedais's look with a shrug of her own and a glance at Seira as if to disavow all blame.
[18:57] <Seira> "A range is fine too," Seira agrees easily.
[18:58] <Demedais> "The Amaryl Range does sound better, yes." Demedais notes slightly. "Although this is perhaps what I get for leaving the naming decision to you two."
[18:59] <Alicia> "I had nothing to do with it," Alicia replies honestly.
[18:59] <Kotono> "So be it. I'll arrainge for the ceremonies this evening." A slight nod of agreement ot this.
[18:59] * Demedais nods, bowing to Chillander. "Thank you again for this."
[18:59] <Seira> "I don't really see the problem, if there is one," Seira says honestly. "Speaking of all sorts of officious things, though, can I ask for something?"
[19:01] <Kotono> "You can ask," Chillander agrees to this. "What is your request?"
[19:04] <Seira> "I know the elven gods are really great," Seira begins, "but do any of them really focus on trade and financial prosperity? I think your lands would benefit from a temple of Waukeen! Why, they are a resounding success in all the human lands! And they're not really intrusive, since we're not zealots like some religions--"
[19:04] * Seira coughs briefly, which might have sounded like Torm. "So it can easily coexist with the residents without prosyletizing in a tiring fashion."
[19:05] * Alicia looks for any sort of convenient escape or distraction at this point.
[19:06] <Seira> "It would help with the reconstruction efforts, too!" Seira brightly adds.
[19:06] * Demedais twitches slightly at the mention of Torm, but otherwise makes no comment.
[19:06] <Kotono> One could easily walk out of the hall if they wish.
[19:07] <Kotono> Chillander raises another eyebrow at the cough, "I can consider it, but your moods seem to have abruptly changed towards the worse."
[19:08] <Alicia> Well that would be rude. So Alicia just does her best to sit still without getting too bored. Then at Chillander's comment she refocuses her attention. "Oh, no, not at all," she smiles. "We're very grateful for the honour you're bestowing on us."
[19:09] * Seira agrees with the sentiment, nodding.
[19:09] <Kotono> "Very well then," Chillander moves past it, "We can talk of the matter of the Temple this evening. For now, allow me to go make preparations."
[19:10] * Fumi is now known as Corwin
[19:10] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Corwin
[19:10] * Demedais muses for a moment before simply commenting, "My apologies, Seira managed to deflect my thoughts to other issues with her request."
[19:17] <Kotono> The evening comes cool and windy in Dewfrost. Inside the city's protective walls, the main streets are cleared save for the sides, a clear path to the center of the city. In front of the city's internal garrison a vast table has been set up in the sunset. There Kortan Chillander and officials await. The streets are lined with people, each holding baskets of fragrant. (More)
[19:19] <Kotono> The party is lead by a single elf down the street, who speaks in Common in deference to Demedais. As they begin to pass elves, they throw the fragrant flowers behind them, chanting and cheering in Elven. The names Demedais, Seira and Alicia can be heard to Demedais amid the various praises. They sing of their bravery and valor, defending the elven nation against a perilous threat.
[19:21] * Demedais blinks at the flowers a bit, but otherwise stays unruffled and calm.
[19:22] * Alicia takes this all in stride as she marches up the street, smiling and waving to the elves as they go. With some magical protection against cold she's able to forgo the numerous layers of fur and cloth that have characterised her appearance on this trip, dressed in her normal black attire with her gleaming mithral breastplate on top.
[19:22] <Alicia> It's nice to put on a show to reassure people that they will be protected even in the face of savage necromantic dragons.
[19:23] * Seira just thinks it would be nice if they remember that some dragons are nice. Like red dragons.
[19:25] <Kotono> As they continue to walk down and flowers are thrown, the elves in the rear beind to slowly follow the party. On they go, approaching the square. The cheers and chants grow louder as they do. When they come to the square, they see that Kortan Chillander sits in a high backed throne, while all others stand. On the party entering the square, he stands as well. In a loud voice that cuts through and silences the chanting, "People of Dewfrost!" he c
[19:25] <Kotono> In a loud voice that cuts through and silences the chanting, "People of Dewfrost!" he calls, the elf with the party quietly translating for Demedais, "It is rare for our land to see true heroism, save against the constant wrath of the elements."
[19:27] * Alicia primly comes to attention as she stops before Chillander's throne.
[19:28] <Kotono> "It is rarer for us to see ones that are not of our race this far into our lands. It is easy to assume it is us alone against the world and the endless tundra. But this time we have been reminded that we are not alone, and that there are true heroes amid the world, ones that are so kind as to help ones not of their own blood." He pauses just a moment here before going on. "Heroes from far away who have shown our nation and our people constant k
[19:28] <Kotono> "Heroes from far away who have shown our nation and our people constant kindness, constant protection. They have no oath to do so, no obligation."
[19:29] * Demedais keeps almost completely straight-faced once this is translated, though a small smile does appear on his face.
[19:29] * Seira sneaks a wave at the gathered elves when she thinks Chillander isn't looking, smiling all the while.
[19:30] <Alicia> That's not strictly true in Alicia's case since her particular oath doesn't discriminate by political or racial boundaries, but she's not about to make an argument of it.
[19:30] <Kotono> "Yet our lands, our family, our nation have been greatly aided by them. They saved us from a beast that knew no honor, no caring, nothing but death. I know they are different and difficult, but they are heroes we have rarely seen. This day I am going to honor them with the Order of the White Horizon. They are as worthy as any other of us."
[19:31] <Kotono> "Don't! Not until the speech is over," The guide hisses to Seira in quick Elven. "It's disrespectful to Lord Chillander!"
[19:31] <Kotono> OOC - *different and difficult ot accept. Ooops. <_<
[19:32] * Alicia avoids looking at Seira and her guide to see what the fuss is, lest she simply draw more attention to it.
[19:33] * Seira rolls her eyes, but refrains from upsetting the guide's poor sensibilities further.
[19:34] <Kotono> Approaching, Lord Chillander starts with Seira. "This is a high honor. You are the first non pure elves to receive this award," He takes out a medal in the shape of a shining white snowflake overlaid with a star, reaching out to affix it to Seira's front, then going to Alicia. "These are made of the rare metals unearthed from the harsh, frozen lands of our family. Wear them well." One is put on Alicia as well, then he goes to Demedais. "May we
[19:35] <Kotono> One is put on Alicia as well, then he goes to Demedais. "May we all live long and well."
[19:35] <Demedais> "May your reign be prosperous." Demedais murmurs in return, as it is affixed.
[19:36] <Alicia> "Thank you," Alicia briefly lifts a hand to the medal, "I will treasure it."
[19:36] <Seira> Purity is overrated. Seira bows respectfully after receiving the medal, which just might shock the guide into speechlessness.
[19:37] <Kotono> In a lower voice for a moment, within earshot of the three but not by much, "And I will vow that our land will become strong enough so that you are not needed to save us at a moment's notice next time," he promises. "With your example, the people will have an inspiration to drive towards."
[19:37] <Kotono> The guide sends Seira a nasty look at that, but holds her tongue in front of Chillander.
[19:38] <Alicia> "That is the best lesson that can be taken from all of this," Alicia agrees with a smile. "If others can see what we are capable of and be inspired to achieve the same for themselves."
[19:38] * Demedais blinks at this. "That is actually the best reward ever. Thank you; to know that you will continue to encourage your people to move forward is truly heartwarming."
[19:39] <Seira> "But we can still come visit, right?" Seira asks with a smile of her own.
[19:40] <Kotono> "You're welcome in these lands," Kortan Chillander says, and then switching to his speech voice again, "People, this evening, let us enjoy our bounty and blessings! May the Seldarine bless all!"
[19:41] <Kotono> "Yes...yes it is. There's a man in Elandra's rest that spreads the word of the Sehanine Moonbow - but that's a matter for another time," Speaking back again low, "Come, there's a celebration to enjoy."
[19:42] <Alicia> At the conclusion of the speech Alicia turns to the gathered throng and lifts up her medal for all to see while she waves with her other hand. She elects not to step on the Seldarine's blessings by saying anything about her own goddess, but the stylised engravings on her armour should advertise well enough her allegiance for those with the eyes to see.
[19:43] <Kotono> The cheers come heavily from the elves, a long ring of them surrounding the square and party. They speak as one, the cheers seeming to reach into the evening sky itself.
[19:45] <Kotono> As the celebration begins, elves going to the tables lined with foods and drink, Chillander stays close to the party. "Now then," he continues in Common,
[19:45] <Kotono> OOC - Gah.
[19:46] <Kotono> As the celebration begins, elves going to the tables lined with foods and drink, Chillander stays close to the party. "Now then," he continues in Common, "You mentioned a temple. Further, were there other matters? The last conversation ended with an odd pause."
[19:47] <Demedais> "I had nothing else to request, myself." Demedais replies. "My sincerest apologies over that; I did get distracted by Seira's talk over thoughts of a... friend, of sorts."
[19:48] <Seira> "Are you getting old?" Seira asks him worriedly. "I heard human minds start to wonder off when they get old."
[19:49] <Kotono> "It's accepted," With a nod to Demedais, "Now then, Seira?"
[19:49] <Alicia> "There is nothing I require from you, my Lord," Alicia replies respectfully. "You have already honoured me enough. Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I'll mingle a bit."
[19:50] <Kotono> "Enjoy," A short nod to Alicia as she goes to mingle.
[19:51] <Seira> "Yes. It's not like I'm trying to con you into financing it or anything like that. But there're all sorts of elements like official approval and actually directing the residents that it's okay to give the temple and the services it would provide a try, plus maybe help in securing some decent land for it since it comes with a marketplace and all those little things."
[19:53] * Demedais refrains from commenting at Seira's snark, instead nodding to Chillander respectfully and then gracefully leaving Chillander at Seira's tender mercies as he goes to look around a bit as well.
[19:54] <Kotono> "I'm not personally opposed to it," Chillander begins, "However, there are a few relevant things to bring up. The Seldarine has shown signs of activity lately. Word of a prophet and healer of Corellon Larethian in Elfsander and the Citadel of Light have reached me, talk of enlightenment in Elandra's rest and so forth. While no elven god directly deals with trading, they are expanding as well. That being said,  I owe you a considerable service."
[19:54] <Kotono> they are expanding as well. That being said,  I owe you a considerable service."
[19:56] <Kotono> "So, in light of that, I'll be willing to help your request."
[19:57] <Seira> "We can work with other religions quite well," Seira assures him. "Waukeen doesn't believe in taking people away from their calling, but in enriching their lives. If they decide to support her cause more directly, that is welcome, but hardly required."
[20:00] <Kotono> "I see..." Kortan Chillander listens, nodding along. OOC - Do you guys want to move along now? Kortan'll help you, Seira, there's not much point in having them sit around while you give a Waukeen spiel when he's on board already.
[20:00] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@70.114.129.129) Quit (Client exited)
[20:00] <Alicia> OOC: moving on works
[20:00] <Seira> OOC: sure
[20:01] <Kotono> OOC: You guys are going to TP back along now?
[20:02] <Alicia> OOC: I want to wait for Forestbright. If he doesn't show up tomorrow I'll ask Seira for a phantom steed to go find him before we teleport away never to return.#
[20:03] <Kotono> The next days, as Alicia and Demedais and Seira prepare to go, there is a visitor to the rooms they're staying in. Forestbright is there, travel stained but with a look of vindication on his face. "I've heard the news that you eradicated the threat."
[20:04] <Alicia> "Ah, Forestbright!" Alicia smiles, getting up and grabbing the holy javelin which she presents to him. "This struck the final blow against the fell wyrm."
[20:04] <Demedais> "Yeah, after it decided it would go zombie on us, that javelin did prove mighty handy." Demedais nods.
[20:05] * Seira wonders whether its price will raise if Alicia were to autograph it.
[20:06] <Kotono> "Excellent!" With a look of pride on his face, Forestbright takes the javelin back. "I've always had confidence in my weapons, even though I'm not the strongest warrior." After a moment of that, "Thank all of you."
[20:06] <Seira> "It's what we do."
[20:07] * Alicia nods. "Your thanks are not necessary, but they are appreciated nonetheless. You played your own role in making this possible, after all."
[20:07] <Kotono> "What are the three of you going to do now?" he asks as a followup.
[20:08] <Seira> "About that," Seira says. "How often do you talk with home?"
[20:08] * Demedais nods slightly to the celestial-in-disguise. "Head back to Balmuria, and from there, check on a few different issues."
[20:08] <Alicia> "We need to return to Balmuria. We've received words of some Vrocks threatening the area, and although the source is dubious we can't ignore it," Alicia explains.
[20:10] <Kotono> "Ah. You continue to battle evil." He pauses a moment, before offering the javelin back to Alicia. "Here. My work here is that of a healer and bringer of revelations, not as a holy bringer of vengence. If the three of you are going to face the fiends of the Lower Planes, it is better in your hands than mine. For now, keep it. It is my thanks for saving all of those I was protecting from further attack."
[20:12] * Demedais nods once in thanks, before waiting to see if Seira gets a response.
[20:12] * Seira tugs on Forestbright's sleeve in silence.
[20:12] * Alicia holds up her hand and shakes her head. "It's very generous of you, Forestbright, but I must refuse. Though your javelin served me well, I have my own armaments, and would not deprive you of yours. Sometimes battle cannot be avoided, and you may well need that javelin to defend yourself or the innocents you protect."
[20:14] <Kotono> "When my tasks are done," He answers Seira after a moment. "I have taken the task of bringing relevation for now. "I can pray for guidance and cast divinations as needed."
[20:16] <Seira> "We kind of need to go to another plane. Some time soon, hopefully," Seira elaborates. "So if there's any way to pass the request for aid in that direction, however covert it would be, I'd really appreciate it. It's pretty relevant to our own grand task."
[20:18] <Kotono> "Plane Shift?" Forestbright says, "I can cast that. What plane do you need to go to? I can amnage a short diversion."
[20:19] <Alicia> "Mechanus, but not yet," Alicia speaks up before they get whisked away. "We need to deal with our demon problem first."
[20:21] <Seira> "Yes. Plus, it would be nice to receive better directions than somewhere on said plane. We need to eventually get to a place which stores... memories, was it?" Seira asks Alicia.
[20:22] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 planes have I learned anything more about the place since first hearing about it?
[20:23] * Rei-chan (Rei-chan@user-54424f92.l5.c2.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[20:23] * Alicia sets mode: +v Rei-chan
[20:23] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 planes have I learned anything more about the place since first hearing about it?
[20:23] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+15 1,0planes have I learned anything more about the place since first hearing about it? --> 6,0[ 1d20=17 ]4,0{32}
[20:26] <Alicia> "The Apex of the Contract," Alicia answers. "It's deep within Mechanus and can't be reached normally with any teleportation magic - there are various barriers in place and you need the sponsorship of a lawful deity to reach it." She then glances meaningfully at Demedais.
[20:27] <Demedais> "The sponsorship or the permission? If the former, I can try to get us all through; if the latter, I'll see what I can do to handle that." Demedais nods.
[20:27] <Alicia> "I think it amounts to the same thing either way," Alicia admits.
[20:29] <Demedais> "Fair." Demedais nods. "Seira did get blessed by Helm at some point, from what I've heard, so she might also be able to enter. We'll see; this is perhaps something we don't want to commit on until we're sure that everyone relevant can get in, as I may not be able to directly locate what we're precisely looking for alone."
[20:30] <Seira> "Well, if there's anything special we need to do to actually be allowed inside, or something we've overlooked, let us know?" Seira requests from Forestbright. "It's always nice to have an outsider, pun unintended, to take a look at our plans for weaknesses."
[20:30] * Seira nods at Demedais. "Lots of gods like me!"
[20:31] <Kotono> "Mechanus is not my speciality," Forestbright shakes his head here, "It's anathema to half of my existance. "If Helm favors you, I would petition or ask to divine of him directly, for it is far more into his sphere of interests."
[20:32] * Demedais nods. "We will definitely look into it, but the vrock issue holds more precedence at the moment, I would say?"
[20:33] <Alicia> "Definitely. As we've seen, the wards will keep," Alicia agrees.
[20:33] <Seira> "It's exactly why I figured it would be a good idea to ask someone in the know to look into it for us, while we were otherwise occupied," Seira says. "In any case, I'm about ready to return, now."
[20:34] <Demedais> For now, at least." Demedais notes. "Thank you, Forestbright, for your willingness to transport us to Mechanus, but I think we'll be passing on taking that part up for just a bit longer, it seems."
[20:38] <Seira> roll 1d100 any place in the capital I know well
[20:38] <Rei-chan> 6,0Seira rolled :6,0 1d100 1,0any place in the capital I know well --> 6,0[ 1d100=66 ]4,0{66}

[Corwin]

[18:41] <Virus_Ko> ----
[18:41] <Virus_Ko> With a woosh, the party appears on the Gaial family's grounds. By now, the keepers of the yard merely look on carefully, and once seeing the group, go back to what they were doing. It's a sunny day here, the teleport otherwise relatively uneventful.
[18:43] <Seira> "Another successful teleport," Seira says with confidence.
[18:44] * Virus_Ko sets mode: +o Demedais
[18:44] <Alicia> "Now we just need to round up Jessica, Antenora, and Marie and then it's on to Balmuria," Alicia agrees, ready to go and do that.
[18:45] <Demedais> "Very well. Are we getting a teleport there, or how will this work?" Demedais inquires.
[18:46] <Alicia> "Probably have to go back and forth but we'll all be home within a few days, and then we can deal with the vrock problem," Alicia replies.
[18:47] * Demedais nods once. "Very well."
[18:49] <Seira> If she knows this place fairly well, her actual home in Balmuria would hardly be an effort when she can teleport again!
[18:50] * Alicia sets mode: +v Kobot
[18:50] <Seira> roll 1d100
[18:50] <Kobot> Seira rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=95 ]{95}
[18:53] <Seira> roll 1d100
[18:53] <Seira> roll 1d100
[18:53] <Kobot> Seira rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=38 ]{38}
[18:53] <Kobot> Seira rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=14 ]{14}
[18:54] <Seira> "Always right on target!"
[18:55] <Virus_Ko> Teleporting back to Balmuria goes without incident. The city is extremely busy - Seira's inn is packed, the party can tell on looking about a bit. Summer trade is one thing, but the city looks to be busier than ever before. Walking down the streets, the party gets  arespectful bubble as they pass - citizens of the Baronies moving aside. You also see blue garbed Malmuthians about, often watched carefully by city guards. A few dusky skinned peo
[18:56] <Virus_Ko>  often watched carefully by city guards. A few dusky skinned people of the desert can be glimpsed in the crowds as well, as well as a few elves and even a dwarf. (More)
[18:58] <Virus_Ko> On reaching the garrison, the party is escorted to Commander Oberuth. He looks quite busy, listening to a few thin, pencil pushing soldiers talking about logistics. He dismisses them with a few curt words, turning the Crimson Guard as they enter. "Well, you're in one piece," he says jovially, "So nothing too horrible happened in the east?"
[18:58] <Demedais> "No, thankfully; we stopped the issue before it got any more serious." Demedais replies. "And how have things been here?"
[18:58] <Alicia> "Silver dragons have an entirely undeserved reputation," Alicia proclaims.
[18:59] <Seira> "Red dragons rule!"
[19:00] <Virus_Ko> "So it was a problem. Glad you're back safe - nothing official about anything's come from the elves, but with distance..." A shrug there, putting it aside as he smiles at the banter. "Things are busy. Sit down and I'll catch you up on local affairs."
[19:00] <Alicia> "Yes, well you and Ajan have certainly done more to advance your particular breed than that disagreeable wyrm did for hers," Alicia tells Seira as she sits herself down.
[19:02] <Seira> "It was a she?!"
[19:02] * Demedais sits as well, waiting.
[19:02] <Alicia> "I'm guessing. The voice was high pitched, but I don't know dragons as well as you," Alicia shrugs.
[19:03] <Seira> "She did bite like a bitch," Seira muses. "Alright. I suppose it's possible."
[19:03] * Seira does sit down eventually.
[19:04] <Virus_Ko> "In the east, there's been no problems from goblins or trolls beyond an adventurous one that attacked a few farmsteads. Pollyanna and Xavier were dispatched and took care of the problem without incident. We did have another giant visit - it was a strange one, but it traded some well crafted if oversized weapons for gold." (More)
[19:06] <Virus_Ko> "Closer to home, the sea elves have been more visible, especially af ew days ago. A ship from Wetwind Harbor had an unexpected explosion and sunk in the harbor. They were very helpful in preventing loss of life and recovering salvagable cargo." A moment here, "We're considering making something like that a more formal arraingement for ships in the bay. "It saved several lives for certain."
[19:07] <Demedais> "That would be a practical way to ensure that the people are protected, so long as the trade is fair for both sides, I would think." Demedais nods.
[19:07] <Alicia> "While it's certainly nice of them to help, what on earth could have made a ship explode?" Alicia asks.
[19:07] <Seira> "Life sounds pretty good," Seira says, nodding in appreciation.
[19:07] <Seira> "Fire!"
[19:08] * Demedais looks at Seira.
[19:08] <Virus_Ko> "It's a good, popular point to make," Oberuth agrees to it, "As to that, I don't have a clue. They ship's crew doesn't seem to know and the captain claims it was lamp oil. I doubt it, but we haven't turned up any evidence to outright refute it."
[19:09] <Seira> "Where did the ship come from, and what was the recovered cargo, Sir?"
[19:10] <Demedais> "Hm. Wh- ... What Seira said; she put it better than I would have."
[19:11] <Virus_Ko> "Wetwind Harbor," Oberuth repeats, "The cargo was mostly mixed - pottery, some wool and grain and some silver ore. Nothing that screams out the problem, nor anything magical. Countess Stronger said she didn't sell the captain or anyone obviously from the Fiefdoms anything magical."
[19:13] <Seira> "Hmm. How much of the ship's cargo was, in the end, salvageable? And did the portion recovered fit the manifest?"
[19:14] <Virus_Ko> "The pottery was about 30% recoverable..." STopping for a few moments, Oberuth goes to a side table and reads from a sheet of parchment. "The grain was a total loss, the wool was recoverable entirely, as was the ore."
[19:15] <Seira> "Could've been this declared grain," Seira muses. "It makes me wonder how the Countess could've sold them anything if they were only heading into port, not leaving. Or did I misunderstand?"
[19:16] * Demedais leans back and thinks. "Either that or something more dangerous was being smuggled and... exploded? Eh, I don't know. This isn't my field. The grain might be it, but wouldn't that just burn, not explode?"
[19:17] <Seira> "If it was grain. Seriously, who exports grain from a desert to a land like ours?"
[19:17] <Virus_Ko> "They were heading out from being docked," Oberuth explains. "They'd loaded up the grain from here and some of the local pottery." Answering that question, "We've covered a fair few bases and can't really prove anything about the matter. Unofficially, we gave the captain a veiled, pointed warning about smuggling." A pause there to Demedais, "That was one of our concerns. No proof, just a lot of speculation."
[19:18] <Seira> "Well, that makes more sense. Maybe it was demons. Blaming explosions on fiends gives us decent odds."
[19:19] <Virus_Ko> With a shake of his head, "Ah yes, fiends. Speaking of that, there was another incident. A minor one, thankfully."
[19:19] * Demedais raises his head, eyes narrowed.
[19:19] <Alicia> "It probably was the grain," Alicia begins before stopping at Obureth's talk of fiends.
[19:21] <Virus_Ko> "There was a barfight several nights ago. It turned very ugly - almost a riot. Some mercenaries were there and weapons ended up being drawn. Before things got out of hand, one of the mercenaries attacked one of the serving girls. It cut behind her, hacking off a good part of a giant, vulture-like wing. Whatever it was ran away like hell afterwards."
[19:23] <Demedais> "...Well." Demedais says. "What happened to this wing?"
[19:23] <Alicia> "Damn," Alicia grimaces, "We'd heard of Vrocks being near the Baronies but thought they were on the border with the desert. Antenora and I will start sweeping the town for them after this."
[19:23] <Virus_Ko> "That's the thing - I checked with Countess Stronger. She said she isn't sure what creature it came from, but she eliminated vrocks as one of the potentials after some research." At Alicia's words Oberuth's expression becomes more thoughtful. "We still have it. I can get it hauled in here."
[19:24] <Seira> "So who's this girl, then?" Seira asks her own question. "What did she give for an address?"
[19:24] <Virus_Ko> "And yes. WE're using Xavier, Morund and Daril for this too. Nothing since then, thankfully."
[19:24] <Alicia> "Even if we can't recognise it we could use it for scrying to find out where the creature is now," Alicia notes.
[19:25] <Virus_Ko> "She'd come into town about a week ago and arrainged work. She said she was staying at one of the new inns in the New Quarter - Silvant Wing. They'd never heard of her."
[19:26] <Virus_Ko> "The name she used was Rauny. She was about 5 and a half feet tall, blonde hair. Kind of cute by all reports," A half smile shows there a moment, "Got clean away and we haven't seen anything since."
[19:26] * Seira quietly laments the poor hiring standards of the competition.
[19:28] <Demedais> "I see. Then to use it for scrying is perhaps the most optimal method of solving this quandary." Demedais nods.
[19:28] <Virus_Ko> "Anyway, I'll have that wing brought in," Oberuth stands up and goes out, talking to a stationed guard briefly. On his return, "Beyond that? The city's been fairly peaceful. There's a lot of little things since it's the busiest trading season we've ever seen. Oh yes, one more thing. The Barony of Valandia is quieting down from reports. The more open incidents are being stamped out slowly but surely."
[19:28] <Demedais> "That's a relief." Demedais nods thankfully.
[19:30] <Virus_Ko> "While we wait on the wing..." Oberuth leans back now, drumming his fingers together, "What's your report going to be? I find it reassuring that a dragon didn't produce fatalities. Kondrux took the entire city and a few sneaky plans and it was still a hell of a fight."
[19:31] <Seira> "There were fatalities, just before we got there. But at least we ensured no more would die."
[19:31] <Alicia> "It did kill a number of elves in the Northern settlements before we arrived," Alicia admits. "And who knows how many goblins and other inhabitants of the tundra who were likely turned into undead creatures."
[19:32] <Demedais> "We also had to kill the blasted thing twice, so um." Demedais grunts.
[19:32] <Virus_Ko> "Undead? With a dragon? Gods in the sky, that's the worst combination of inhuman opposition I've ever heard of," Oberuth openly winces, "What the hell was going on?"
[19:33] <Seira> "It still remains a mystery. But at least it's a mystery that's not killing people, for now."
[19:33] <Demedais> "It was a necromancer, would be my guess." Demedais shakes his head. "It tried to summon a swarm of wraiths to attack us before we brought it down."
[19:33] <Alicia> "It seemed obsessed with death," Alicia nods, "After we appeared to have killed it the first time, its scales fell off and it immediately reanimated as a skeleton to resume the battle."
[19:35] <Virus_Ko> "Sir," A knock on the door, two soldiers entering. They carry something wrapped in several layers of cloth and chain mesh, unwrapping onto the floor. A faint, pungent odor of sulphur and brimstone fills the air. It is the tip to perhaps a midsection of a large wing, about the size of Antenora's. It looks like a vulture's, down to the black feathers. As you look at it, you notice something. Even now the wing molts - feathers are shedded and va
[19:35] <Virus_Ko> Even now the wing molts - feathers are shedded and vanish in puffs of foul air, new ones growing out.
[19:35] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 planes
[19:35] <Kobot> Alicia rolled 1d20+15 planes --> [ 1d20=4 ]{19}
[19:35] <Seira> roll 1d20+11
[19:36] <Kobot> Seira rolled 1d20+11 --> [ 1d20=5 ]{16}
[19:36] <Virus_Ko> Oberuth nods to the men who then leave, "There's the wing, feel free to go at it," he says, "And that's abjectly horrible," he also adds, "A skeletal dragon? Ugh. Congratulations on killing it, though."
[19:37] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13
[19:37] <Kobot> Demedais rolled 1d20+13 --> [ 1d20=4 ]{17}
[19:37] <Alicia> "Mmm..." Alicia looks and then just shakes her head. "I could get Antenora and Marie to have a look, but it's not something I recognise. Those feathers are... disturbing."
[19:38] * Demedais shakes his head slowly. "Unfamiliar to me, I must confess, but yes... That would probably be wisest."
[19:38] <Virus_Ko> "The smell's horrid." Oberuth waves a sheet of parchment in the air, "Wrapping it up keeps most of the stench at bay. By all means take it to them."
[19:39] <Alicia> "I'd rather not cart such a thing through the streets, sir," Alicia replies. "It's probably better if I bring them here instead."
[19:40] <Demedais> "Can the smell be eliminated somehow, then, while someone goes to fetch them?" Demedais inquires.
[19:42] <Virus_Ko> "Elle used a simple spell to sweeten the air while she examined it," Oberuth wrinkles his nose, "Alicia, just go get them."
[19:42] <Alicia> "I'll return presently," Alicia gets up and excuses herself, heading off to collect the duo.
[19:45] <Virus_Ko> Despite the smell, or perhaps because of it, Alicia is mercifully fast. Antenora and MArie come along, the former smiling darkly at the smell. "Brimstone. IT's almost like Hell again," she approaches to examine the wing.
[19:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 for Marie
[19:46] <Kobot> Alicia rolled 1d20+15 for Marie --> [ 1d20=2 ]{17}
[19:46] <Virus_Ko> roll 1d20+16
[19:46] <Kobot> Virus_Ko rolled 1d20+16 --> [ 1d20=6 ]{22}
[19:47] <Alicia> "Pee-yew!" Marie exclaims as she looks down from atop Alicia's head. "This makes me glad Antenora doesn't have feathers."
[19:48] <Virus_Ko> "It's not one of her feathers," Antenora murmurs back, "Thank Mystra. A vulture's feathers...A vrock? Another fallen?" Looking up and with an unkind glance at Marie, "I can't identify it exactly."
[19:49] <Alicia> "I don't recognise it either," Marie replies as she beams at Antenora, more in response to her invoking Mystra's name rather than any cheekiness.
[19:49] * Demedais nods once. "Alright... We'll have to be careful when going up against it, then. We'll try a scry on it later, then, I suspect?"
[19:50] <Alicia> "Best thing for it," Alicia agrees.
[19:50] <Virus_Ko> "By all means," Oberuth says, "Do you want to take it with you? Wrap it up if you do," He says, "And is there anything else?"
[19:52] <Seira> "I really, really don't want to take it with me."
[19:52] <Alicia> "Like I alluded to earlier, we received word of vrocks in the area around our border with the desert fiefdoms, but I think this takes precedence," Alicia gestures to the severed wing. "Antenora, Marie, and myself can search the town to see if we can detect any fiends until Seira's able to try scrying on the original owner?"
[19:52] <Seira> "A good night's rest and I'll be ready to do that!"
[19:52] <Virus_Ko> "Sounds like a plan," Oberuth agrees. "Dismissed then, I'll need to send notes to the capital about those vrock."
[19:53] * Demedais nods. "Indeed. Thank you, Commander."
[19:54] * Alicia salutes, nearly knocking Marie off her head in the process. "If you two want to come along you can, although I can tell you from prior experience that these sweeps are often fruitless and rather dull," Alicia tells Seira and Demedais.
[19:54] <Virus_Ko> "Better alert all the time and right once than idle and wrong once," Antenora notes to that.
[19:55] <Demedais> "I would come, but I have two priorities that I myself must attend to." Demedais confesses. "I wish you luck; if you need or want assistance, I will either be at the temple or will be back there at some point soon."
[19:58] <Virus_Ko> ---
[20:01] <Virus_Ko> Walking the streets of the city, the pair of paladins and exalted familiar begin to roam. Through most of the old city first, wandering and meandering. You see the the trade area and Waukeen's Temple - so busy as to be nearly shoulder to shoulder, but no great evils in it. You can see the priests of Waukeen work and preach, the value of money and trade being so advertised. You go through the poorer parts of town - busy yet, simple laborers an
[20:01] <Virus_Ko> busy yet, simple laborers and city dwellers going about. Again no touch of true evil, no sign of obvious miasmic darkness. To the docks you go, several ships in harbor. You see ships from the Baronies, an elven ship, smaller ships from the desert, Kelarian boats and more. Workers bustle about, cargo hauling and loading going on at a frentic pace. But again so far, no great, vile evils. At this, Antenora lingers by the docks, the green waters
[20:01] <Virus_Ko> At this, Antenora lingers by the docks, the green waters near and below. "Busy..." she muses aloud a moment.
[20:03] <Alicia> "Indeed," Alicia nods, "The city has grown a lot even in the short time I've been here."
[20:04] <Virus_Ko> "Do you have any stake in it?" Antenora asks curiously as she starts to walk again, "It's not your homeland. Jessica does seem more attached to it, but..."
[20:05] <Alicia> "I've grown somewhat fond of the place," Alicia admits. "In truth I never really expected to return to Kelara after I left, but nor did I expect to settle down elsewhere. It's home for now, and that's enough."
[20:07] <Virus_Ko> "Seconded," Antenora smiles ever so little at that, "It's a fine enough place, though one day...Mount Celestia," As you continue to walk away from the harbor, still no great evils as you head southwest. "Or perhaps Dweomerheart if you're there."
[20:10] <Alicia> "Don't think I haven't noticed your new glowiness!" Marie adds accusingly as she floats into Alicia's view after briefly seperating to cover more area with her own evil detection. "It's so obvious Mount Celestia is trying to steal you away! You even named your new sexy voice spell after them!"
[20:11] <Alicia> "S-sexy voice?" Alicia replies in wide-eyed incredulity. "That's not what it's meant to be at all!" Reaching up to bop Marie's head, "And why are you getting so riled up? Worried I'm going to find a nice lantern archon to replace you?"
[20:12] <Virus_Ko> "It is sexy," Antenora says lightly, "If I were a strapping male, your light and new voice would woo me over," Starting to really grin at that, "You'd fit in well to Celestia, too."
[20:13] <Virus_Ko> "Besides," As you walk, still noe vil, just masses of people ocming and going, the innocent living their lives, "A lantern archon would be an obvious improvement. No messy chaos."
[20:14] <Alicia> "Hmph!" Marie huffs as she lands on Alicia's head. "It wouldn't surprise me if you were offered one at this rate. And sure, they might be all 'I have neat lasers so you don't need to spend money on a bow and arrow for me!' but they don't tell you that they can't shoot anything more than a few steps away."
[20:15] * Alicia shakes her head in despair. "This conversation has taken a horribly wrong turn somewhere," she laments. "Please, Marie, just because I happen to align morally and ethically with Celestia, doesn't diminish my spiritual connection to Mystra at all."
[20:17] <Alicia> "Good!" Marie nods. "Because, name aside, inventing that new spell of yours was really good - that's the sort of thing Mystra really loves. It reminds me of the spell I invented back when I was alive - it became really popular, too."
[20:18] <Alicia> "You invented a spell?" Alicia asks, glancing around as they stroll along. "Anything I've heard of?"
[20:19] <Alicia> "I hope so! Marielle's Marvellous Projectiles of Unerring Infallibility!" Marie proclaims cheerfully. "But some idiot started calling it Magic Missile and it was all downhill from there."
[20:21] <Virus_Ko> Antenora groans aloud at that, "Marie, that's such a fake story that it's cringeworthy." she buries her face in one of her hands, sighing.
[20:22] <Alicia> "Well tell me who *did* invent magic missile, miss smartypants?" Marie sticks her tongue out at Antenora.
[20:22] <Alicia> "I don't know who did, but that spell's as old as the hills. It certainly wasn't invented by you," Marie tells Marie firmly. "Honestly now, you're such a shameless little liar."
[20:22] <Virus_Ko> "Mystra, the Goddess of Magic?" Antenora smiles a little back, "Who else would create such a staple of wizards everywehre. Unless...you're syaing you're better than Mystra at that?"
[20:24] <Alicia> "Well clearly I must have been inspired by her?" Marie replies brightly. "I thought with my sexy archon voice it might have even sounded believable, but you're just too clever for me."
[20:24] <Alicia> *Alicia tells Marie firmly
[20:25] <Virus_Ko> With a heavy roll of her eyes, "Bullshit is bullshit no matter who says it? Anyway, let's get going - there's still a lot of city to sweep."
[20:26] <Alicia> "Yes, ma'am!" Marie salutes and takes off to resume circling Alicia and Antenora to expand their effective detection radius a bit as they continue the patrol.
[20:26] <Virus_Ko> The new city is packed as well. Walking about, the party sees many things - new shops, large houses, temples and even home. But none bear the miasma of evil, no signs of obvious diabolical, abyssial or plain nastiness seen.
[20:27] <Alicia> Well they'll keep at it until they've covered every inch of Balmuria if that's what it takes.
[20:31] <Virus_Ko> Searching the last bits of the city fail to turn anything up as well. No signs of evil, thankfully.
[20:33] <Alicia> "Well, that's that. Probably left the city, or we might have just missed it on our first pass like we did with Kortische," Alicia reasons. "Hopefully Seira's scrying will turn something up tomorrow."
[20:48] * Demedais (~ferixstad@141.218.208.193) Quit (Ping timeout)
[20:51] <Virus_Ko> ---
[20:52] <Virus_Ko> Thus Seira wakes and prepares the next morning. Marshalling her spells, she prepares! With the vulture-wing before her Seira prepares, the hour long ritual invoked with skill and patience! At the summit of it Seira cries forth, demanding to see the creature so invoked!
[20:52] <Virus_Ko> roll 1d20+4 (-10 for a releavnt body part.)
[20:52] <Kobot> Virus_Ko rolled 1d20+4 (-10 for a releavnt body part.) --> [ 1d20=6 ]{10}
[20:53] <Virus_Ko> OOC - Scrying allows SR. Make a caster level check too?
[20:53] <Seira> roll 1d20+12
[20:53] <Kobot> Seira rolled 1d20+12 --> [ 1d20=10 ]{22}
[20:59] <Virus_Ko> Thus Seira peers into the mists, into her focus! The creature sits on a log in a light forest, arms crossed. It is a terrible thing, a horrible thing! It is hugely muscled, like a human at the prime of it's power. It's flesh is like burning magma, great vulture like wings from it's back. Spines are at it's elbows and neck and knees, bristling with sparks. Around it are four people - each wears a breastplate, kneeling before him. They have fai
[20:59] <Virus_Ko>  each wears a breastplate, kneeling before him. They have faintly golden skin, but eyes of fire and looks of pure fury. Like a God looking down on his worshippers, the creature eyes them. He does not comment immediately.
[21:01] <Seira> roll 1d20+11
[21:01] <Kobot> Seira rolled 1d20+11 --> [ 1d20=20 ]{31}
[21:02] <Virus_Ko> As Seira looks on, a thrill of fear courses down her spine. The creature before her is one of the Fallen. An angel cast out of the Upper Planes for pride, lust, greed or other failings, these Fallen are horrible foes that serve dark ends across the spectrum of evil. The greatsword that rests besides it is likely magical, signifiying it as once being a Planetar.
[21:04] * Seira is somewhat upset at the news. Wouldn't it really be more prudent to kill an angel gone bad until it dies from it rather than send it out to torment mortals? She would have to bring this up with Waukeen when they next meet.
[21:04] <Seira> Assumptions about magic aside, however, she wants to make certain of the fact, and tries to cast detect magic through the link.
[21:05] <Virus_Ko> OOC - D100.
[21:05] <Seira> roll 1d100
[21:05] <Kobot> Seira rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=48 ]{48}
[21:05] <Virus_Ko> OOC - What's your CL?
[21:05] <Seira> OOC: 12, so this should pass
[21:05] <Virus_Ko> OOC - 60 percent odds, so yes.
[21:06] * Seira studies everything and everyone, from the scene before her to the faces, builds and equipment of those present. You never know when it might come in handy!
[21:07] <Virus_Ko> The greatsword that rests besides the Fallen radiates moderate evocation. Each of the creatures that kneel beside it have greatswords as well. These radiate moderate enchantment.
[21:09] <Seira> Now fully prepared, Seira lets the spell run its course, intent on studying her target for ten minutes.
[21:10] <Virus_Ko> After a minute or so, one of the creatures kneeling shifts. The Fallen Planetar's gaze turns to it, and in a voice that spits flame from it's mouth, "Stillness. Save your energy and fury for when the time is right." Wordlessly, the armored man goes still, bowing his head in respect. "That's right," The Planetar continues, "Savor the pain and feel the anger build in you."
[21:13] <Virus_Ko> "Let that time come soon!" Another of the four kneelers speaks, "I wish to crush the heretic beneath my blade! I want to hear the cries of agony!"
[21:14] <Virus_Ko> "Silence," The Fallen Planetar's voice is horrid to hear, the log beneath him twisting. It's turned black as night, withering and yet staying in shape. "Speak more if you wish to see MY fury for disobeying MY words."
[21:15] <Virus_Ko> From there there is no more conversation - they seem to be content waiting for whatever purpose they serve.
[21:15] <Seira> roll 1d10+10
[21:15] <Kobot> Seira rolled 1d10+10 --> [ 1d10=8 ]{18}

[Corwin]

[18:08] <KotonoIbis> OOC: Ball is largely in your courts. Do me a faovr and list all your buffs in #elysium? Also, Antenora'll offer an align weapon for Seira or Deme if they want it.
[18:08] <KotonoIbis> -----
[18:09] <KotonoIbis> Thus Seira casts her potent scrying, seeing what lies in the forest once the mists of vision part. The others are waiting, preparing...
[18:09] * CC is now known as Seira
[18:15] <Seira> Adequately prepared, Seira attempts to teleport everyone ten feet within the fallen planetar!
[18:15] <Seira> roll 1d100
[18:15] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d100 and gets 18."12 [1d100=18]
[18:17] <KotonoIbis> Antenora's face is composed but grim as she clutches her spear, ensorcelled and readied. The mists of teleportation are a momentary swoop, appearing in the forest! The Fallen sits on the log, a near statue of pure, prideful evil! Behind him to you are the four who kneel before him, a moment of pure surprise as the party appears! Around them, the forest is silent - dead, none of nature's normal chorus of gentle sounds. OOC - You guys have a
[18:17] <KotonoIbis> dead, none of nature's normal chorus of gentle sounds. OOC - You guys have a surprise round since you teleported in, go ahead and act.
[18:17] <Alicia> Standing easily as tall as the fallen deva as she positions herself between him and her allies, Alicia levels her planetar-forged blade of holy fury at the vulture-winged being, her countenance one of stern reproof in comparison to the unconcealed rage and hate of her foe. "Lay aside your weapons and surrender, and I swear upon the heavens that you will be treated with mercy and compassion."
[18:17] <Alicia> "Do otherwise and your existence upon this plane is forfeit," the paladin pronounces simply, her form bathed in a warm nimbus of golden celestial light and her words reasonating with the power of the Upper Planes.
[18:19] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Make a diplomacy check?
[18:19] <Alicia> roll 1d20+29 (+2 if any of them are actually good)
[18:19] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+29 (+2 if any of them are actually good) and gets 30."12 [1d20=1]
[18:21] <KotonoIbis> With a look of surprise, the Fallen turns! From it's mouth come words of hatred and raw fury, while his subjects gape! "Creatures of dust!" he sneers, a hand whoosing through the air, leaving a trail of flame in front of him. "You think I will surrender to piteous creatures such as you? Never again will I knee to one such as you!" With a hate that seems to permeate the air as he looks at Alicia, "I will show you how worthless the light you
[18:21] <KotonoIbis> "I will show you how worthless the light you claim is!" OOC - Go ahead and act, non Alicia people. I'll say her surprise was used on the speeching.
[18:22] <Seira> "Okay," Seira goes, bringing out a staff and bolstering her spell with holy flames before sending it towards the fallen and its flunkies. "Burn, then."
[18:22] <Seira> roll 1d20+13 fire cl
[18:22] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+13 fire cl and gets 23."12 [1d20=10]
[18:22] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Roll damage. What's the DC for the ref save?
[18:23] <Seira> roll 13d6+3d6 fire DC25
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 13d6+3d6 fire DC25 and gets 62."12 [13d6=4, 6, 3, 3, 5, 1, 3, 4, 3, 3, 6, 4, 3][3d6=6, 6, 2]
[18:23] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+14 Fallen
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+14 Fallen and gets 27."12 [1d20=13]
[18:23] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+6 Follower 1
[18:23] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+6 Follower 2
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+6 Follower 1 and gets 23."12 [1d20=17]
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+6 Follower 2 and gets 11."12 [1d20=5]
[18:23] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+6 Follower 3
[18:23] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+6 Follower 4
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+6 Follower 3 and gets 16."12 [1d20=10]
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+6 Follower 4 and gets 10."12 [1d20=4]
[18:25] <KotonoIbis> A great gout of fire comes forth, burning a cone amid the evil! The log is burnt into rubble, burning grass and scorched ground all around the followers! Lik ea hellscape they stand in, the followers badly burned, though the Fallen only looks minorly singed! OOC - Deme and Antenora are up.
[18:25] <Demedais> "Right." Demedais grunts. "Then we'll just resolve this here and now." With that, he quickly lances forward, aiming to get an initial, brutal blow on the fallen angel after Seira's fire scorches them!
[18:26] <Seira> roll 1d4+4
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d4+4 and gets 6."12 [1d4=2]
[18:27] <Demedais> roll 1d20+22 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +6 Smite, +2 helm, -9 PA)
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+22 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +6 Smite, +2 helm, -9 PA) and gets 24."12 [1d20=2]
[18:28] <KotonoIbis> Demedais lances forward like a torando, but the flow is for naught! It's skin is like diamondsteel, the blow glancing off it's cursed flesh! As this happens, Antenora takes to the air! Her boot glow as she swoops up and plummets down at him like a shot from the heavens! "It's your fate..." she calls as she does.
[18:30] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+25 (+1 haste, +1 fly, +2 greater magic weapon, +2 FS 7/8, +6 smite, +2 charge, +2 bane -10 PA)
[18:30] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+25 (+1 haste, +1 fly, +2 greater magic weapon, +2 FS 7/8, +6 smite, +2 charge, +2 bane -10 PA) and gets 29."12 [1d20=4]
[18:32] <KotonoIbis> roll 2d8+68+1d6+2d6
[18:32] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 2d8+68+1d6+2d6 and gets 84."12 [2d8=7, 3][1d6=1][2d6=4, 1]
[18:33] <KotonoIbis> Stabbing in, Antenora plunges her spear into the stomach of the Fallen! She looks on at it with a moment of geniune sadness, and quietly, "There's always another way..." she murmurs to it, even as the battle is joined in earnest! OOC - Initaitive.
[18:33] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+5
[18:33] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5
[18:33] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+5 and gets 14."12 [1d20=9]
[18:33] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 and gets 14."12 [1d20=9]
[18:33] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 nerveskitter
[18:33] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 nerveskitter and gets 26."12 [1d20=14]
[18:33] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+9 Fallen
[18:33] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+9 Fallen and gets 29."12 [1d20=20]
[18:34] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 and gets 16."12 [1d20=15]
[18:34] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+2 F1
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+2 F1 and gets 14."12 [1d20=12]
[18:34] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+2 F2
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+2 F2 and gets 9."12 [1d20=7]
[18:34] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+2 F3
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+2 F3 and gets 13."12 [1d20=11]
[18:34] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+2 F4
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+2 F4 and gets 3."12 [1d20=1]
[18:34] * KotonoIbis changes topic to 'Fallen Planetar>Seira>Demedais>Alicia=Antenora=F1>F3>F2>4'
[18:36] <KotonoIbis> The Planetar's body is bleeding and scorched, but nonetheless it looks on with pure contempt! From it's mouth a terrible word comes forth at Antenora!
[18:36] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+14
[18:36] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+14 and gets 29."12 [1d20=15]
[18:36] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d4
[18:36] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d4 and gets 1."12 [1d4=1]
[18:36] * KotonoIbis changes topic to 'Fallen Planetar>Seira>Demedais>Alicia=Antenora(1 round stun)=F1>F3>F2>4'
[18:37] <KotonoIbis> Antenora staggers back, dropping her spear and wobbling like a punch drunk fighter! No words come from her mouth after that phrase of power from the Fallen, who looks on towards Alicia, "You're next, exalted," The word coming from his mouth like a curse, like a terrible curse! OOC - Seira.
[18:40] <Seira> Discarding her staff, Seira takes to the air herself, moving to the fallen's other side while drawing her sword. She might as well help out a bit, while Antenora regains her bearings, and so she stabs at the planetar's flank with all the fury the Resort is capable of!
[18:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+24 spellruin
[18:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+24 spellruin and gets 27."12 [1d20=3]
[18:42] <Seira> OOC: Actually 28, if it matters
[18:42] <KotonoIbis> Seira is swift as the wind, coming to it's side! However, the Fallen is now moving and doging! It sways outside of the sword, narrowly evading it's jeweled blade! OOC - It doesn't, it has a dex mod it get sto use now that it's not flatfooted. Deme.
[18:43] * Demedais grunts, before unleashing a flurry of cuts at the fallen angel now to try and land some damage!
[18:43] <Demedais> roll 1d20+31 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +6 Smite, +2 helm, +2 Flanking, -2 PA)
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+31 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +6 Smite, +2 helm, +2 Flanking, -2 PA) and gets 39."12 [1d20=8]
[18:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+23 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +2 Flanking, -2 PA)
[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+23 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +2 Flanking, -2 PA) and gets 28."12 [1d20=5]
[18:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +2 Flanking, -2 PA)
[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +2 Flanking, -2 PA) and gets 38."12 [1d20=20]
[18:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +2 Flanking, -2 PA)
[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+13 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +2 Flanking, -2 PA) and gets 18."12 [1d20=5]
[18:44] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Confirm your crit chance.
[18:44] <Demedais> roll 1d20+18 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +2 Flanking, -2 PA) crit check
[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+18 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, +2 Flanking, -2 PA) crit check and gets 21."12 [1d20=3]
[18:44] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Two normal hits. Schizo bot.
[18:45] <Demedais> roll 4d6+46
[18:45] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 4d6+46 and gets 58."12 [4d6=5, 2, 2, 3]
[18:46] <KotonoIbis> Lancing in, Demedais cuts into the unholy flesh of the fallen angel! His blade slices deep and long, drawing vast splurts of a black, slimy fluid from it's veins! It lives yet despite this obvious, grevious wounds! It's fury only seems to grow stronger, making it's body shake! OOC - Alicia. Antenora's stunned this round.
[18:46] * KotonoIbis changes topic to 'Fallen Planetar>Seira>Demedais>Alicia=Antenora=F1>F3>F2>4'
[18:47] <Alicia> "So, sad, that an erinyes would have more sense than a planetar," Alicia shakes her head in disgust before she advances on the Planetar with a flurry of rapid strikes, her blade lending her strength with indignation at this blasphemous creature. "Return to the pit and ponder your failings, betrayer!"
[18:47] <Alicia> OOC: raging, divine might, sacrificing 1 4th, 3 2nd and 1 1st level slots
[18:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28 holy
[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 holy and gets 37."12 [1d20=9]
[18:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28 holy
[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 holy and gets 40."12 [1d20=12]
[18:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28 fire
[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 fire and gets 42."12 [1d20=14]
[18:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+23 holy
[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+23 holy and gets 25."12 [1d20=2]
[18:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+23 fire
[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+23 fire and gets 31."12 [1d20=8]
[18:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18 holy
[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 holy and gets 28."12 [1d20=10]
[18:48] <KotonoIbis> OOC - First three hit.
[18:49] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 CL for enervation 1
[18:49] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 CL for enervation 1 and gets 23."12 [1d20=10]
[18:49] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 CL for enervation 2
[18:49] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 CL for enervation 2 and gets 28."12 [1d20=15]
[18:49] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Enervations make it in.
[18:49] <Alicia> roll 2d4 negative levels
[18:49] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 2d4 negative levels and gets 5."12 [2d4=4, 1]
[18:50] <Alicia> roll 4d6+50+4d6+22d4 fire
[18:50] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 4d6+50+4d6+22d4 fire and gets 133."12 [4d6=4, 1, 4, 4][4d6=3, 2, 6, 5][22d4=2, 4, 3, 1, 4, 3, 3, 4, 1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 4, 4, 2, 3, 1, 4, 1]
[18:50] <Alicia> OOC: sorry, holy for that one
[18:50] <Alicia> roll 2d6+25+1d6+11d4 fire for real
[18:50] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 2d6+25+1d6+11d4 fire for real and gets 56."12 [2d6=2, 5][1d6=1][11d4=2, 1, 1, 4, 3, 3, 1, 3, 1, 2, 2]
[18:51] <KotonoIbis> Alicia uses her greater reach, stabbing and slicing the fallen! It is surrounded as it's arm is severed from it's body, it's torso ripped in two with arcane fire! A howl of fury comes from it's disintegrating throat, speaking horrid words, "IN the name...In the name of the Hateful Fury...Kill them!" he burbles out, as his body crumbles into brimstone!
[18:51] <Seira> "He did work for that idiot god of failure!" Seira exclaims, her images nodding firmly.
[18:52] <KotonoIbis> The four, burnt and damaged, reply to this with only one response, yet almost as one! Cries of the utmost fury come from them as they charge the party, going to engage them with feral looks of unreasoning rage!
[18:52] <Seira> "Morons."
[18:52] * Demedais looks to Seira. "Mind not calling him tha- oh, geez."
[18:53] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+28 F1 on Demedais
[18:53] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+28 F1 on Demedais and gets 40."12 [1d20=12]
[18:53] <KotonoIbis> OOC - -2, excuse me. AC?
[18:53] <Demedais> OOC: 33 if within range of Alicia.
[18:53] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Even if you are, moot.
[18:53] <KotonoIbis> roll 2d6+1d8+17
[18:53] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 2d6+1d8+17 and gets 28."12 [2d6=1, 3][1d8=7]
[18:54] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+22 (-4 PA, forgot that on Deme. Lucky him.) F3 on Seira
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+22 (-4 PA, forgot that on Deme. Lucky him.) F3 on Seira and gets 25."12 [1d20=3]
[18:54] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d7 image
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d7 image and gets 4."12 [1d7=4]
[18:54] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+22 cleave
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+22 cleave and gets 31."12 [1d20=9]
[18:54] <Seira> OOC: AC 33, btw
[18:54] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d6
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d6  and gets 5."12 [1d6=5]
[18:55] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+22 (-4 PA Antenora who's stunned)
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+22 (-4 PA Antenora who's stunned) and gets 29."12 [1d20=7]
[18:55] <KotonoIbis> roll 2d6+1d8+29
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 2d6+1d8+29 and gets 42."12 [2d6=2, 6][1d8=5]
[18:56] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+22 (-4 PA) Alicia
[18:56] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+22 (-4 PA) Alicia and gets 41."12 [1d20=19]
[18:56] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+22 (-4 PA) Alicia crit
[18:56] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+22 (-4 PA) Alicia crit and gets 39."12 [1d20=17]
[18:56] <Alicia> OOC: AoO?
[18:57] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Sure, you have reach on it.
[18:58] <Alicia> As one of the fools rushes headlong at her, Alicia kicks out to knock his feet from under him!
[18:58] <Alicia> roll 1d20+17 melee touch for trip
[18:58] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+17 melee touch for trip and gets 31."12 [1d20=14]
[18:58] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 str check
[18:58] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 str check and gets 30."12 [1d20=17]
[18:59] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+9 lucky you
[18:59] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+9 lucky you and gets 27."12 [1d20=18]
[19:00] * KotonoIbis changes topic to 'Seira>Demedais>Alicia=Antenora=F1>F3>F2>4'
[19:00] <KotonoIbis> Alicia reacts just in time! The flat of her blade lashes out, knocking the barbarian down! His greatsword whizzes an inch before her neck, barely stopped from a killing blow! Meanwhile, the rest of the party is engaged! Demedais has his side slashed and Antenora's back is savagely torn open! OOC - Seira, you're up.
[19:00] * Seira raises an eyebrow, turning towards the fool that struck at two of her images. "Last chance to surrender."
[19:01] <KotonoIbis> All Seira gets back is an incoherent scream on the scorched battlefield, nothing resembling a reasonable reply!
[19:01] <Seira> "God. Of. Suck." Seira punctuates each word with an angry stab at her opponent, her weapon glowing emerald!
[19:02] <Seira> roll 1d20+26 smite
[19:02] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+26 smite and gets 33."12 [1d20=7]
[19:02] <Seira> roll 1d20+26
[19:02] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+26 and gets 27."12 [1d20=1]
[19:02] <Seira> roll 1d20+21
[19:02] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+21 and gets 24."12 [1d20=3]
[19:03] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Two hits.
[19:03] <Seira> roll 3d8+14+6d8
[19:03] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 3d8+14+6d8 and gets 72."12 [3d8=6, 8, 4][6d8=8, 6, 5, 7, 8, 6]
[19:03] <Seira> roll 3d8+14
[19:03] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 3d8+14 and gets 29."12 [3d8=3, 5, 7]
[19:04] <KotonoIbis> Seira smites the foe! Such a simple term is far from adequate to say what went on - she cut it's neck in twain! It's head hangs on by it's spine and a few remnants of flesh! It's blood comes out in a gushing wave! Surely, death should come to claim it...but it does not! Even with a wound that even a fallen angel could not su rrive, this being continues to move, caught into it's fury! OOC - Demedais.
[19:05] * Demedais grimaces, before turning to the one who struck at him and lashing out with a massive fury!
[19:06] <Demedais> roll 1d20+20 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, -3 PA)
[19:06] <Demedais> roll 1d20+20 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, -3 PA)
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+20 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, -3 PA) and gets 35."12 [1d20=15]
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+20 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, -3 PA) and gets 25."12 [1d20=5]
[19:06] <Demedais> roll 1d20+15 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, -3 PA)
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+15 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, -3 PA) and gets 28."12 [1d20=13]
[19:06] <Demedais> roll 1d20+10 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, -3 PA)
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+10 (+3 Align Weapon +Divine Might, +1Haste, -3 PA) and gets 25."12 [1d20=15]
[19:06] <KotonoIbis> OOC - All hit.
[19:07] <Demedais> roll 8d6+80
[19:07] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 8d6+80 and gets 110."12 [8d6=6, 4, 3, 5, 2, 5, 4, 1]
[19:08] <KotonoIbis> With one massive thrust, Demedais impales the heart of the twisted creature! He rips his blade out, it's very white and black heart on the tip of his sword! Even as it beats outside of the being's chest, it continues to live! OOC - Alicia and Antenora.
[19:08] <Demedais> "Um... something is slightly wrong with this situation." Demedais comments wryly.
[19:09] <Seira> "I'm banning Torm's ass once we get back to Balmuria," Seira vows. "Who's with me?"
[19:10] * Alicia kind of gets the idea from what's occuring with Demedais and Seira, but guesses that these beings are too caught up in their fury to act ratioanlly if they're too mad to die. Therefore she attempts to disarm them, starting with the one attacking Antenora then Demedais's playmate and finally the one she knocked over.
[19:10] <Alicia> "Should have done it a long time ago!" Alicia grimaces as she gets to work.
[19:10] <Seira> "We're just too damn kind!"
[19:10] <Alicia> roll 1d20+33 opposed attacks for disarming, +4 for largeness and +4 for two handed
[19:10] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+33 opposed attacks for disarming, +4 for largeness and +4 for two handed and gets 39."12 [1d20=6]
[19:11] <Demedais> "Not with you. There has to be a better way - I can't see this doing anything more than pissing him off, and that won't work as a long-term solution." Demedais grunts back.
[19:11] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+30 (+4 two handed)
[19:11] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+30 (+4 two handed) and gets 47."12 [1d20=17]
[19:11] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28 try again
[19:11] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 try again and gets 43."12 [1d20=15]
[19:12] <Seira> "It would piss Shar off, too, if she couldn't have a temple in Balmuria, and yet, I lack caring!" Seira calls back.
[19:12] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+30 (+4 two handed)
[19:12] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+30 (+4 two handed) and gets 42."12 [1d20=12]
[19:12] <Alicia> roll 1d20+23 vs Deme's attacker same deal
[19:13] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+23 vs Deme's attacker same deal and gets 26."12 [1d20=3]
[19:13] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+30 (+4 two handed)
[19:13] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+30 (+4 two handed) and gets 42."12 [1d20=12]
[19:13] <KotonoIbis> It takes two tries, but Hell Striker sends the greatsword of the foe over Antenora to the ground before she turns to Demedais' foe! She can't dislodge this sword! OOC - Antenora.
[19:13] <Alicia> "In case you hadn't noticed," Alicia grimaces as she disarms one of them, "He's already beyond reason. Preventing others from being lured into worshipping an insane evil deity is a just cause if ever there was one."
[19:15] <KotonoIbis> Antenora rights herself and grabs her spear, before taking to the air and up! "If Torm wants to revel in the darkness, then it's our duty to help send him and those who wish to go with him there!" OOC - Berserkers are up.
[19:15] * Demedais stays silent at this comment, before, "Very well, then. It's not like I've ever been able to stop any of you, and I won't bother trying here."
[19:15] <KotonoIbis> The one on Demedais roars his fury, his sword coming down in massive killing blows against the paladin!
[19:16] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+20 (-6 PA)
[19:16] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+20 (-6 PA) and gets 23."12 [1d20=3]
[19:16] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+20 (-6 PA)
[19:16] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+20 (-6 PA) and gets 32."12 [1d20=12]
[19:16] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+15 (-6 PA)
[19:16] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+15 (-6 PA) and gets 27."12 [1d20=12]
[19:16] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+10 (-6 PA)
[19:16] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+10 (-6 PA) and gets 19."12 [1d20=9]
[19:16] <KotonoIbis> OOC - AC, Deme?
[19:16] <Demedais> OOC: 33 if Alicia's close enough, which she should be if she tried to disarm this guy.
[19:16] <KotonoIbis> OOC - She is, yeah.
[19:17] <KotonoIbis> As Demedais defends himself with sword and Resort, "Then subdue one of them," Antenora calls back, "One of the oens that isn't so fatally injured!"
[19:17] <KotonoIbis> Meanwhile, the one on Seira rages at her, unleashing hateful barrages of destruction!
[19:17] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+20 (-6 PA)
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+20 (-6 PA) and gets 32."12 [1d20=12]
[19:17] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d5
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d5 and gets 4."12 [1d5=4]
[19:17] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+20 (-6 PA) cleave
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+20 (-6 PA) cleave and gets 36."12 [1d20=16]
[19:17] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d4
[19:17] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d4 and gets 3."12 [1d4=3]
[19:18] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+20 (-6 PA) attack 2
[19:18] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+20 (-6 PA) attack 2 and gets 37."12 [1d20=17]
[19:18] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d3
[19:18] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d3 and gets 3."12 [1d3=3]
[19:18] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+15 (-6 PA) attack 3
[19:18] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+15 (-6 PA) attack 3 and gets 30."12 [1d20=15]
[19:18] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d2
[19:18] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d2 and gets 1."12 [1d2=1]
[19:18] <KotonoIbis> OOC - AC, Seira?
[19:18] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+10
[19:18] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+10 and gets 23."12 [1d20=13]
[19:18] <Seira> OOC: AC still 33
[19:19] <KotonoIbis> Seira's images are torn apart, but once again the faithful spell of Mirror Image has saved her live agaisnt cleaving blows! Meanwhile, the one on Antenora roars at her in the air, before turning to Alicia and charging at her with it's bare hands! OOC - It's going to try to strike you unarmed. You can AoO it if you like.
[19:19] <Alicia> OOC: saving my AoO for when tripsy mcfallsalot tries to get up
[19:20] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+21
[19:20] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+21 and gets 25."12 [1d20=4]
[19:20] <KotonoIbis> However, despite it's anger, it's untrained blow is ineffective! Meanwhile, the last one attempts to get up, screaming! "Kill!" OOC - Alicia?
[19:21] <Alicia> "Oh, so you can speak after all?" Alicia asks sarcastically as her sword flicks out to batter his own weapon away before he can fully rise.
[19:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+33
[19:21] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+33 and gets 47."12 [1d20=14]
[19:21] <Seira> "I'm not sure subdual would be effective against them," Seira notes, eyeing the dead thing attacking her distastefully. "Their zealotry is practically off the charts."
[19:21] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+30 (+4 two handed weapon)
[19:21] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+30 (+4 two handed weapon) and gets 36."12 [1d20=6]
[19:21] <KotonoIbis> Alicia disarms the second with a flick of her wrist, knocking it's sword away! None the less, it attempts to plummel her to death!
[19:21] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+21
[19:21] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+21 and gets 41."12 [1d20=20]
[19:22] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+21 hahahahaha
[19:22] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+21 hahahahaha and gets 27."12 [1d20=6]
[19:22] <Alicia> OOC: AC 34
[19:22] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d3+9 nonlethal
[19:22] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d3+9 nonlethal and gets 12."12 [1d3=3]
[19:22] <KotonoIbis> It's fist goes out, slamming straight into Alicia's kisser! OOC - Seira.
[19:24] * Seira dances out of the zealot's reach, resisting the urge to tell him that he is already dead, and summons phantom jaws to gnaw at the creep that landed a blow on Alicia.
[19:25] <Seira> roll 10d6 force dc23
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 10d6 force dc23 and gets 25."12 [10d6=5, 3, 3, 1, 2, 2, 5, 2, 1, 1]
[19:25] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+6 ref half
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+6 ref half and gets 21."12 [1d20=15]
[19:26] <KotonoIbis> The jaws munch into the back of the foe who just punched Alicia! Even as it's flesh is munched away, it hardly seems to care! OOC - Deme.
[19:29] * Demedais focuses his own strength, before swinging with all his might to try and disarm his opponent! OOC: Kensai Might (DC 15)
[19:29] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Righto.
[19:30] <Demedais> roll 1d20+31 (+4 KM, +4 2H weapon)
[19:30] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+31 (+4 KM, +4 2H weapon) and gets 37."12 [1d20=6]
[19:30] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+30 (+4 two handed oh Hatbot)
[19:30] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+30 (+4 two handed oh Hatbot) and gets 47."12 [1d20=17]
[19:30] <KotonoIbis> Demedais has his body swell with might, but the sword vs sword blow favors the berserker, it's sword staying well in hand! OOC - Antenora and Alicia.
[19:32] * Alicia moves back out of reach of the two attacking her so they won't benefit from her magic circle against compulsions and such-like, then puts all the force of her empowered voice into one incredibly simple and reasonable suggestion to the one that isn't being eaten by jaws of force. "Calm down and surrender or you'll die!"
[19:32] <Alicia> OOC: DC 21 will
[19:32] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+7
[19:32] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+7 and gets 24."12 [1d20=17]
[19:33] <KotonoIbis> Alicia's words carry the might of Celestia with them, yet they echo hollow to this berserk warrior! He cares not, even as Antenora swoops down at the one that stabbed her before, now unarmed and resisting the voice! However, this time instead of her spear point, the butt of her spear is thrust forth!
[19:34] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+19 (+2 charge, +2 FS 6/8, +1 fly, +2 greater magic weapon, +1 haste, -4 nonlethal, -4 PA)
[19:34] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+19 (+2 charge, +2 FS 6/8, +1 fly, +2 greater magic weapon, +1 haste, -4 nonlethal, -4 PA) and gets 34."12 [1d20=15]
[19:35] <KotonoIbis> roll 2d8+1d6+2d6+44
[19:35] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 2d8+1d6+2d6+44 and gets 67."12 [2d8=6, 7][1d6=2][2d6=2, 6]
[19:37] <KotonoIbis> The massive thump to the head of the berserker is overwhelming! It's dizzied and dazed by the blow! Meanwhile, the one on Demedais retorts, looking to cleave him apart!
[19:37] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+20 (-6 PA)
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+20 (-6 PA) and gets 32."12 [1d20=12]
[19:37] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+20 (-6 PA)
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+20 (-6 PA) and gets 21."12 [1d20=1]
[19:37] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+15 (-6 PA)
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+15 (-6 PA) and gets 25."12 [1d20=10]
[19:37] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+10 (-6 PA)
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+10 (-6 PA) and gets 24."12 [1d20=14]
[19:39] <KotonoIbis> However, Demedais is able to deflect and avoid, his armor soaking up one slash that comes far too close to hitting! The one on Seira sees Seira moving out of the way, and with a scream, lunges at her to catch up!
[19:39] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+22 (+2 charge, -6 PA)
[19:39] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+22 (+2 charge, -6 PA) and gets 42."12 [1d20=20]
[19:39] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+22 (+2 charge, -6 PA) crit?
[19:39] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+22 (+2 charge, -6 PA) crit? and gets 34."12 [1d20=12]
[19:39] <KotonoIbis> OOC - AC?
[19:39] <Seira> OOC: If it doesn't hit an image, yes, since ac=33
[19:39] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d2
[19:39] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d2 and gets 1."12 [1d2=1]
[19:40] <KotonoIbis> roll 4d6+1d8+64
[19:40] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 4d6+1d8+64 and gets 83."12 [4d6=6, 1, 5, 6][1d8=1]
[19:41] <KotonoIbis> The blow goes past the single fake Seira left, cleaving into her arm and shoulder with a nearly defenestrating intent! Instead it's only a deep, bloody wound, stoneskin somewhat resisting the overpowering chop! Meanwhile, the unarmed one leaps up a few times, before taking a random unarmed swing at Demedais! OOC - You can AoO if you like.
[19:42] <Demedais> OOC: No.
[19:42] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+21
[19:42] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+21 and gets 27."12 [1d20=6]
[19:42] <KotonoIbis> However, it's fits clangs uselessly on Deme's breastplate! Meanwhile, the last one chases after Alicia, a single wild unarmed blow coming at her! OOC - You can AoO if you like.
[19:43] * Alicia once again kicks the guy's feet away from under him.
[19:43] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18 melee touch
[19:43] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 melee touch and gets 34."12 [1d20=16]
[19:43] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 str check
[19:43] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 str check and gets 14."12 [1d20=1]
[19:43] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+9
[19:43] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+9 and gets 23."12 [1d20=14]
[19:43] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+21
[19:43] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+21 and gets 39."12 [1d20=18]
[19:43] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d3+9 nonlethal
[19:43] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d3+9 nonlethal and gets 10."12 [1d3=1]
[19:44] <KotonoIbis> Wham! Alicia misses, just as she's socked in the face again! She can feel a bruise rising, a trickle of blood coming from her nose! OOC - Seira, you're up.
[19:44] <Seira> "Torm," Seira swears, as if the word were the vilest of curses. She flies straight up for fifteen feet, all her focus going into maintaining her Manyjaws spell.
[19:44] <Seira> roll 10d6 dc still 23
[19:44] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 10d6 dc still 23 and gets 45."12 [10d6=5, 6, 6, 1, 4, 5, 5, 6, 4, 3]
[19:44] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+6 ref
[19:44] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+6 ref and gets 14."12 [1d20=8]
[19:45] <KotonoIbis> This time the jaws eat into the spine of the berserker! It's severed and angling from two broken ends out of it's ruined back, even as it lives on! Only one now does not bear obviously lethal wounds, though it has a heck of a lump and stagger from the blow Antenora landed on it! OOC - Deme.
[19:45] * Demedais grimaces, before attempting to disarm his opponent again, pulling back toward Alicia if the attempt fails.
[19:45] <Demedais> roll 1d20+31
[19:46] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+31 and gets 45."12 [1d20=14]
[19:46] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+30
[19:46] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+30 and gets 32."12 [1d20=2]
[19:46] <KotonoIbis> Clang! This time Demedais succeeds, sending the third greatsword flying uselessly away! OOC - You can continue your FA if you like or take a move action if you're not FAing.
[19:47] <Demedais> OOC: Where is the final greatsword guy?
[19:47] <Seira> OOC: Below me, 30ft away
[19:47] <Demedais> OOC: Relative to me.
[19:47] <KotonoIbis> OOC: Below Seira. Say 10 ft away now in the midsts of the battle.
[19:48] * Demedais moves between Alicia and the final greatsworder, hoping to take the brunt of any attack he may make while still in the aura Alicia has!
[19:49] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Alicia and Antenora.
[19:50] * Alicia decides to help Antenora in subduing at least one of them so he can be questioned if he ever calms down, and moves to attack with a club to the back of the head!
[19:50] <Alicia> roll 1d20+20 -5 pa divine might
[19:50] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+20 -5 pa divine might and gets 33."12 [1d20=13]
[19:50] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Hit.
[19:50] <Alicia> OOC: -4 nonlethal as well
[19:50] <KotonoIbis> Meanwhile, Antenora continues the clubbing of her own, a steady stattico of spear butts!
[19:50] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Hit.
[19:51] <Alicia> roll 2d6+35+2d6
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 2d6+35+2d6 and gets 46."12 [2d6=4, 3][2d6=1, 3]
[19:51] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+19 (+1 fly, +1 haste, +2 greater magic weapon, +2 FS 5/8, -4 nonlethal, -2 PA)
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+19 (+1 fly, +1 haste, +2 greater magic weapon, +2 FS 5/8, -4 nonlethal, -2 PA) and gets 25."12 [1d20=6]
[19:51] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+19 (+1 fly, +1 haste, +2 greater magic weapon, +2 FS 5/8, -4 nonlethal, -2 PA)
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+19 (+1 fly, +1 haste, +2 greater magic weapon, +2 FS 5/8, -4 nonlethal, -2 PA) and gets 27."12 [1d20=8]
[19:51] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Strike second roll, oops.
[19:52] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d8+1d6+2d6+17
[19:52] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d8+1d6+2d6+17 and gets 27."12 [1d8=1][1d6=4][2d6=4, 1]
[19:53] <KotonoIbis> The paired, twinned and slamming nonlethal blows rock the berserker even harder! It doesn't go dowdn, but it's eyes are lidded shut and glazed over! The only one with a weapon left charges Demedais, going right for him!
[19:53] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+22 (-6 PA, +2 charge)
[19:53] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+22 (-6 PA, +2 charge) and gets 23."12 [1d20=1]
[19:54] <KotonoIbis> However, this blow is in vain, merely going right past him! Meanwhile the unarmed ones blindly strike out - one at Alicia and two at Demedais!
[19:54] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+21 D
[19:54] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+21 D and gets 29."12 [1d20=8]
[19:54] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+21 D2
[19:54] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+21 D2 and gets 36."12 [1d20=15]
[19:54] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+21 A
[19:54] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+21 A and gets 24."12 [1d20=3]
[19:54] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d3+9 nonlethal to Deme
[19:54] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d3+9 nonlethal to Deme and gets 11."12 [1d3=2]
[19:55] <KotonoIbis> In the scuffle Demedais gets a bare handed blow to the exposed face, leaving a welt in the future! OOC - Seira, you're up again.
[19:55] <Seira> "Be still!" Seira loudly commands, flying after the dead berserker that dared to strike at her.
[19:56] <Seira> OOC: DC 23
[19:56] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+7 will
[19:56] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+7 will
[19:56] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+7 will
[19:56] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+7 will and gets 13."12 [1d20=6]
[19:56] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+7 will and gets 23."12 [1d20=16]
[19:56] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+7 will and gets 9."12 [1d20=2]
[19:57] <KotonoIbis> Calling on the power of time, SEira slows down two of the frenzied berserkers! OOC - Deme.
[19:58] <Seira> "We can just retreat and wait it out, now," Seira suggests, wincing at the deep cut that freak inflicted.
[19:59] * Demedais quickly focuses his strength again, before aiming for a disarm on his final opponent!
[19:59] <Demedais> roll 1d20+31
[19:59] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+31 and gets 36."12 [1d20=5]
[20:00] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+30
[20:00] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+30 and gets 49."12 [1d20=19]
[20:01] <KotonoIbis> Once again Deme tries, but this warrior has a supernatural vitality running through him, preventing his disarming! OOC - Alicia and Antenora.
[20:01] <Alicia> "Are you sure this will wear off? They might have become zombies for all we know," Alicia replies uncertainly as she moves over to bash away the weapon held by Demedais's foe.
[20:02] <KotonoIbis> As holy energy mends Antenora's wounds, "The Hateful Fury..." she says, "How fitting for these servants." That gets a long look at Alicia from the side of her look, "I hope not."
[20:02] <KotonoIbis> OOC - FS 4/8.
[20:02] <Alicia> roll 1d20+37 charging and flanking
[20:02] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+37 charging and flanking and gets 38."12 [1d20=1]
[20:03] <Seira> "I have enough fire to subdue dozens of zombie," Seira responds flippantly. "It just might be the best plan to fly out of reach and let their hate lead them to their demise."
[20:03] <KotonoIbis> Alicia tries well and hard, but still cannot disarm this last warrior! It faces both Demedais and Alicia, a scream coming as it assaults both of them!
[20:03] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+20 (-6 PA) Deme
[20:03] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+20 (-6 PA) Deme and gets 32."12 [1d20=12]
[20:03] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+20 (-6 PA) Alicia
[20:03] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+20 (-6 PA) Alicia and gets 31."12 [1d20=11]
[20:04] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+15 (-6 PA) Deme
[20:04] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+15 (-6 PA) Deme and gets 31."12 [1d20=16]
[20:04] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+15 (-6 PA) Alicia
[20:04] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+15 (-6 PA) Alicia and gets 26."12 [1d20=11]
[20:04] <KotonoIbis> OOC - ACs?
[20:04] <Demedais> OOC: 33, if I'm in range of Seira.
[20:04] <Demedais> OOC *Alicia.
[20:04] <Alicia> OOC: 31 thanks to that ill advised charge
[20:05] <KotonoIbis> Despite it's fury, it can manage only one blow when moving this slow! The slash misses Demedais, keeping them safe! Meanwhile, Alicia and Deme see only the unslowed unarmed berserker get to them, that one taking a swing at Alicia! OOC - You can AoO if you want to bother.
[20:05] * Alicia kicks away his legs before he can reach her!
[20:06] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18 melee touch
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 melee touch and gets 35."12 [1d20=17]
[20:06] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 str
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 str and gets 18."12 [1d20=5]
[20:06] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+9
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+9 and gets 29."12 [1d20=20]
[20:06] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+23 chaaarge why not?
[20:06] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+23 chaaarge why not? and gets 26."12 [1d20=3]
[20:06] <KotonoIbis> While it easily avoids and resists the tripping, it's fist clangs worthlessly off her breastplate! OOC - Seira.
[20:11] <Seira> Seira flanks the berserker trying to slap Alicia silly, sinking her blade into it to the hilt, aided by ephemeral green helixes.
[20:11] <Seira> roll 1d20+28 lifetheft
[20:11] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+28 lifetheft and gets 48."12 [1d20=20]
[20:11] <Seira> roll 1d20+28 lifetheft, hmm
[20:11] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+28 lifetheft, hmm and gets 36."12 [1d20=8]
[20:12] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Crit.
[20:12] <Seira> roll 9d8+42
[20:12] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 9d8+42 and gets 78."12 [9d8=3, 3, 2, 6, 1, 5, 4, 7, 5]
[20:12] <Seira> roll 4d6 SA
[20:12] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 4d6 SA and gets 8."12 [4d6=4, 1, 2, 1]
[20:13] <KotonoIbis> Seria cuts deep into the already dead man, her wounds healing! OOC - Demedais.
[20:14] * Demedais grimaces, before trying to disarm this stubborn opponent again!
[20:14] <Demedais> roll 1d20+31
[20:14] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+31 and gets 39."12 [1d20=8]
[20:14] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+29 (-1 slow)
[20:14] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+29 (-1 slow) and gets 39."12 [1d20=10]
[20:14] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Higher mod wins.
[20:14] <KotonoIbis> With a giant effort, Demedais at last disarms the berserker, leaving it weaponless! OOC - Alicia and Antenora.
[20:15] <KotonoIbis> Antenora heals her own wounds further(3/8) but otherwise holds her position for now.
[20:15] * Demedais moves away from the idiots at this point. OOC: Um, yeah, I was going to move back if I didn't need to FA. >_>
[20:15] <KotonoIbis> OOC - Oh sorry, my bad.
[20:16] <Alicia> Deciding to take Seira's advice, Alicia moves over to Demedais and casts Fly on him. "Lets try it Seira's way and see what happens," she suggests.
[20:16] <Seira> "I'm pretty sure I'm right about this!"
[20:18] <KotonoIbis> Meanwhile, the two berserkers close to the clustered heroes are able to take wild unarmed swings -or they would! At this moment they simply stop moving! For a moment they are still, before they collapse with faint dying groans! Three of them are obviously dead, already mostly bled out! The last staggers and stumbles, before falling face down and out! OOC - Free action, they're dead, dead, dead adn out cold, respectively.
[20:18] <Alicia> "Oh... you are indeed," Alicia nods to Seira, momentarily dumbstruck as she sags in relief at the battle's end.
[20:19] * Seira nods in satisfaction, as yet another theory is proven right. She goes to collect her staff, feeling much better. She never got to use so many of her sword's abilities together before.
[20:19] <KotonoIbis> Antenora flutters down to the ground, going to check the one that may still be alive. Kneeling next to him, she checks him. "He' sbreathing," she says aloud.
[20:19] * Demedais blinks, before nodding slightly. "Very well. At least we can hope for some answers to this entire mess."
[20:20] <Alicia> "I hope he'll be more coherent when he wakes up," Alicia muses, going to examine the statue glimpsed at the start of all this before the whirlwind of combat took all her attention.
[20:20] * Seira gets some rope. Lots of rope. "Who wants the honors?" Seira asks, holding it up.
[20:20] <Alicia> "Antenora's good with rope," Alicia mentions distractedly.
[20:20] * Demedais has manacles, and uses them on his arms. "Rope can bind the rest of his body." he suggests at this.
[20:20] <Seira> "You'll have to teach me," Seira tells Antenora, coming closer to the redeemed erinyes. "I've grown rusty."
[20:21] <KotonoIbis> Antenora takes it, "Erinyes use those ropes and lassos," she says, getting to work on binding him up. "It's inborn, but I can teach you if you want. But what in the name of the Heavens was this? Has Torm gone so far as to use Fallen?"
[20:22] <KotonoIbis> roll 1d20+7 use rope why  not?
[20:22] * Hatbot --> "KotonoIbis rolls 1d20+7 use rope why not? and gets 19."12 [1d20=12]
[20:22] <Alicia> Well, looks like she was mistaken. Casting detect magic and also checking for evil, Alicia studies the corpses and their belongings as well as the general area. "Probably all of his loyal servants are fallen."
[20:22] * Seira helps!
[20:22] <Seira> roll 1d20+8
[20:22] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+8 and gets 21."12 [1d20=13]
[20:23] <Seira> "Did they really fall, or are they still serving Torm in earnest?" Seira wonders curiously.
[20:24] <KotonoIbis> "Is there going to be a difference here?" Antenora opines, "There may not be a practical one...or there is." Finishing her ropework, the last bound and manacled quite well, "Perhaps he'll have the answers."
[20:24] <Alicia> "Their hearts are as black as any fiend's," Alicia states with conviction. "I'm sure they're as earnest as whatever creatures follow Bane."
[20:25] <KotonoIbis> "Still..." Antenora looks down, brushing the cheek of the survivor, "They've known good. There may still be hope for them."
[20:25] <Seira> "There is a difference as far as Torm's mortal servants are concerned," Seira notes.
[20:26] <Demedais> "On this note... if you two are still earnestly considering shutting the temple down, I would request some time before you begin that process. I... need to talk to Eudard." Demedais says, shoulders sagging a bit.
[20:26] <Seira> "Want my help with that?"
[20:26] <Alicia> "For the ones that don't know the truth," Alicia admits. "It's hard to go against centuries of tradition that have guided Torm's church. But it's clear that the 'Hateful Fury' as he styles himself now is not concerned with hiding his nature in the least."
[20:26] * Seira doesn't look like she's been joking about closing the temple with extreme prejudice.
[20:27] <Demedais> "No, I'll deal with it myself." Demedais says, looking to Seira.
[20:27] <Demedais> "Optimally, I can get that ring made. It may help..."
[20:27] <KotonoIbis> "How about a third option," Antenora continues to look down at him, "If Torm's renounced what he was, that doesn't mean that another can't follow and worship what he once was in defiance. Perhaps encourage something of an interfaith heresy?"
[20:28] <Demedais> "This is what I wish to broach, in part, to Eudard. I do not know how successful I will be, but." Demedais shrugs.
[20:28] <Alicia> "I tried that already," Alicia notes. "Whether it has stuck... well, even if Commander Obureth doesn't sanction the closure of that temple, I fully intend to speak out and warn people of what Torm has become."
[20:28] <Seira> "Well, the clerics can't really get spells if Torm doesn't grant them, and I doubt he would for heretics," Seira says doubtfully. "It would be a pretty futile show of defiance."
[20:30] <KotonoIbis> "Alicia," Antenora turns her look to her now, thoughtful and earnest, "You can appeal to the Upper Planes, can't you? If we're going to become more involved in this matter, perhaps one that stays with the light can help?"
[20:32] <Alicia> "What sort of help do you mean?" Alicia asks. "Something like having the Celestial Hebdomand grant succor to those who follow Torm's original doctrine? I recall you mentioned once that the Lords of the Nine could empower their faithful as clerics, and I'm certain that the rulers of Mount Celestia would be just as capable if they chose."
[20:33] <KotonoIbis> "Something like that, or perhaps another God?" With a moment of openness, Antenora merely shrugs. "If they'd do that, I don't know. I'm grasping at straws."
[20:34] <Alicia> "Perhaps... but if such powers are willing to help, would those they assist not be better off worshipping them instead of clinging to a memory of a fallen god?" Alicia reasons.
[20:35] <Demedais> "It takes time to turn men. What you suggest is reasonable as a stepping stone of sorts, if this is what must be done." Demedais shakes his head.
[20:35] <Seira> "On the subject of Torm, I'll have to return to the Citadel," Seira announces suddenly. "I can't let them find out about it when they hear of the mess in Balmuria."
[20:35] <KotonoIbis> "Perhaps." After another long moment of thought, "Anything just to stop the fall of more good men."
[20:36] <Alicia> "Even so, I think you perhaps overestimate my influence in such matters," Alicia confesses. "For my part I will speak out more stridently - let those warped clerics of hatred and fury try to defend their faith in the face of reason and justice."
[20:40] <Alicia> "Also, Antenora, can you fly up above the treeline and see how close we are to Balmuria?"
[20:41] <Seira> roll 1d20+11 after looking around for a bit
[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+11 after looking around for a bit and gets 18."12 [1d20=7]
[20:41] <Seira> OOC: +2 for 20

[Corwin]

[15:23] <Kotono> ----
[15:23] * Kotono sets mode: +oo Demedais Ebiris
[15:23] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[15:23] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[15:23] <Kotono> OOC - Okay, you guys were heading back to Balmuria? How and what are you taking with you from the battle?
[15:25] <Alicia> OOC: 3 corpses and 1 KO'd dude, sticking them on summoned donkeys two each and sticking tent canvas on top of them so no one has to see the gory cadavers. Plus their weapons.
[15:26] <Kotono> OOC: How long do the donkey's last then?
[15:26] <Alicia> OOC: 8 hours
[15:27] <Kotono> OOC: Should be just enough. The rest of you are keeping pace with that?
[15:27] <Demedais> OOC: Guess so.
[15:29] <Seira> OOC: Got a mount summon for me
[15:30] <Demedais> OOC: I have Horse, so.
[15:30] <Kotono> The day passes in a haze of warmth as the party travels back towards Balmuria. On exiting out of the forest edge, they pass by farmsteads and scattered settlements. There are no trolls here this time, only honest men and women tilling the earth. As the noon passes into the afternoon, the party approaches Balmuria. The southern gate into the city is bustling, caravans being admitted and searched. On a glance, most look like Malmuthians or Valand
[15:30] <Kotono> On a glance, most look like Malmuthians or Valandians. OOC - Alicia, you have about 15 minutes or less on your donkeys.
[15:31] * Alicia doesn't mind hustling them along to reach the garrison before time runs out. As the Crimson Guard they hardly need to wait in line with new visitors to the city, after all. She's also not glowing right now.
[15:33] <Kotono> As the party approaches the gate, past the influx of visitors and travelers and traders, the guards on duty turn away and salute. "
[15:33] <Kotono> OOC - GAh.
[15:34] <Kotono> As the party approaches the gate, past the influx of visitors and travelers and traders, the guards on duty turn away and salute. "Out of the way," they shoo the latest caravan ot the side, the entryway opened wide. They stay at attention, lead by Wedge who fires off a sharp salute.
[15:34] * Demedais salutes back in thanks, hoping they get to the garrison on time.
[15:34] * Alicia salutes in passing to the two guards as she leads her beasts of burden into the city.
[15:37] <Kotono> Hustling to the garrison and through the streets, the party pushes aside a fair few. Most merely accept it with looks of interest and respect, though a few glare - mostly those that don't fit the look of the city. The party reaches the garrison's front before the donkeys expire.
[15:39] <Alicia> Once inside Alicia looks to find some place to offload the bodies before they can be buried somewhere, preferably out of sight. Then the prisoner has to be taken down to the dungeon and they can go and tell Obureth what transpired.
[15:41] <Kotono> Alicia is able to get an empty room without incident, able to desposit the bodies. Further, several garrison men help restrain the berserker, not that he needs much, as he's still very unconcious. Finding the Commander isn't hard either - he's overseeing a meeting of several military and non military sorts, a few snatches of conversation about trade and patrols and shipping caught before he excuses himself from it. Once that's done, the four go
[15:41] <Kotono> shipping caught before he excuses himself from it. Once that's done, the four go to a plain side room to talk. "Well?" he asks in a single word.
[15:42] <Seira> "We found the owner of that wing," Seira reports.
[15:43] <Alicia> "It seems to have been a representative of Torm, sent here to punish heretics," Alicia elaborates. "They seemed most eager to fight us, and although the fallen planetar was easily dispatched his minions proved remarkably resilient - we managed to subdue one at least, who will hopefully prove more cooperative when he awakens."
[15:44] <Seira> "Since they were zealots who fought even in death, I'm not holding out much hope for that, Sir," Seira adds.
[15:44] <Alicia> "I can be very persuasive," Alicia notes neutrally.
[15:44] <Kotono> With a short nod and a gloomy look, "Torm, eh?" He's silent on that after it's said, crossing his arms. "Was he connected to the church in Balmuria?"
[15:45] * Demedais says nothing, maintaining a calm silence.
[15:46] <Alicia> "We don't know, although hopefully our prisoner can elaborate on that," Alicia replies. "But clearly Torm has proven himself to be just as much a threat to the well being of our society as Shar or Cyric, and I believe his church should be treated accordingly. It would not surprise me if the planetar was intent on punishing those 'heretics' who subscribe to Torm's old doctrine in defiance of the vitriol now espoused by his priests."
[15:48] <Kotono> "Mph." Oberuth's expression turns from gloom to composed thoughtful grimness, "Before we go burning any churches, see if you can get the prisoner to talk. True or not, coming down hard on the church of Torm isn't something to be done lightly."
[15:50] * Demedais nods once at this.
[15:52] <Alicia> "Very well," Alicia nods. "I'll see to it now, sir." But first she needs to collect her familiar, so heads home to get Marie before going into the dungeon.
[15:53] * Seira intends to stick around to observe the interrogation.
[15:56] <Kotono> Antenora follows Alicia. "Report back to me when you're done," he says, and then, "Demedais, with me."
[15:56] * Demedais will keep an eye on the situation as well.
[15:56] * Demedais blinks at this, then nods and follows Oberuth instead.
[15:57] <Kotono> OOC - Deme into #evil? We'll do the interrogation in here.
[15:58] <Kotono> After a quick trip to gather up Marie, the four women come to the cell that holds the prisoner.  Inside he lays, chained down, tied, manacled and generally quite disabled. He's still not awake, battered and beaten like a demon who showed up at a devil's only party.
[16:01] * Alicia enters the cell and closes the door behind her before she casts voice of the archon, the spell also benefitting the eladrin who flutters beside her in the air. Knowing her part in all this, Marie supresses her usual protective aura while Alicia bestows enough healing to rouse the prisoner.
[16:01] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 planes, he is an aasimar, right?
[16:01] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 planes, he is an aasimar, right? and gets 25."12 [1d20=10]
[16:02] <Alicia> OOC: 17hp worth of lay on hands, I'll stop as soon as he wakes up
[16:02] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 Marie in case she has more specialised planar knowledge
[16:02] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 Marie in case she has more specialised planar knowledge and gets 27."12 [1d20=12]
[16:03] <Kotono> Antenora stays back for now, watching distantly. Alicia pours 16 points of healing into him before the prisoner stirs. He's slow and groggy, groaning and blinking his eyes like he's trying to open them for the first time.
[16:05] <Alicia> "Glad you're awake," Alicia greets the planetouched creature. "I'm hoping you'll be more coherent this time."
[16:06] <Kotono> Blink, blink, blink. His eyes focus on Alicia, watery and reddened. "My Lord...?" He asks dully, an arm moving, as if to go up to clear his eyes. However, held in place, his arm cannot move. To this he looks down, then more quickly back up. "...! You!" he says, eyes narrowing into slits.
[16:07] <Alicia> "Please," Alicia sighs, "Calm yourself. Violence availed you naught when you had a weapon in your hand and allies at your side. Do you think trying to break free and attack me in your current state will be any more successful?"
[16:10] <Kotono> "Violence is the fruit of rage! If it fails, you must apply more rage for better violence!" He pulls at his chains a few times, though not seriously. "Your violence was commendable when you struck down My Lord. Why do you torment me by sparing me? You denied me a glorious death in the throes of anger!"
[16:13] <Alicia> "My violence was that of the skilled and well-aimed blade, backed by righteous purpose. Yours was the wild flailing of a wild and uncaring beast," Alicia enunciates cooly. "The difference is one you could learn to appreciate in time, if you wish your survival to mean anything."
[16:13] <Alicia> She allows her heavenly nimbus of light to manifest around her, illuminating the dingy cell as she goes on, "But that is something for you to ponder later. For now I wish to hear of your Lord. Tell me your purpose in coming here."
[16:13] <Alicia> *maddened flailing
[16:19] <Kotono> "You wish to hear of our divinely granted mandate to spread the glory of fury?" Despite straining at the chains, the creature does not overly attempt to move against them. "My Lord wishes to punish those that coddle the wicked and give comfort to heresy! Such is a glorious mission, worthy to lay my life down on! This mortal city of Balmuria holds the seeds of heresy within it! They must be exterminated and the glory of the Hateful Fury spread w
[16:19] <Kotono> They must be exterminated and the glory of the Hateful Fury spread within! We must show the purity of rage in smiting those that would defy the one truth!"
[16:20] <Alicia> "Tell me, who are the heretics that your Lord wishes to punish?" Alicia asks as she leans slightly over him.
[16:24] <Kotono> "One who resists the divine gift of fury must be set right," His answer comes without pause, without hesitation, without doubt. "Eudard of Torm resists the glory of hate. For his sake he must be immersed in the truth faith and path!" Then a pause, as he looks up at Alicia full. "I stare at the heretic. You invite the devil itself into your home and claim to be righteous! You cling to the darkest heresy and must be punished! We are not afraid of
[16:24] <Kotono> We are not afraid of you, mortal. You or the Helmite or the dragon."
[16:25] <Seira> "So what's my heresy?" Seira asks curiously.
[16:25] <Alicia> "You mean the devil who was so kind as to knock you out rather than slay you?" Alicia gestures to Antenora through the cell doors. "Funny, she seems a lot less fiendish than that betrayer of the heavens you were with."
[16:29] <Kotono> Antenora looks on at him and smiles, a strangely innocent one that doesn't really fit her normal expression. Meanwhile, "I care not for your words. I speak to you because there is still time. Repent to the fury and you can still be saved. Strike down the devil and make amends. Both of you, for Torm's fury can still be held at bay." As his look goes by the various women, dismissing Marie with a bare glance and glaring back at Antneora, he settle
[16:29] <Kotono> dismissing Marie with a bare glance and glaring back at Antneora, he settles on Seira. "You struck down servants of Torm."
[16:30] * Seira personally thinks that since she used more than a fair bit of fury towards that end, it isn't a particularly good argument.
[16:30] <Alicia> "Torm's fury, eh?" Alicia raises an eyebrow. "You'll forgive me, but after the performance put in by you and your friends, I'm not exactly quaking in my boots."
[16:31] <Kotono> "Stay in your arrogance and reject Torm's mercy. Rage will claim your life and your soul and you will be properly condemned for eternity."
[16:33] <Seira> "So this is something we can expect from all the true servants of Torm, then?" Seira asks him. "This fury and hate, coming down all the way from Torm?"
[16:33] <Alicia> "As condemned as Torm is?" Alicia asks before just shaking her head in disgust. "This is getting us nowhere. Tell me exactly what your plans were for dealing with the heretics identified with your Lord," she states firmly, her reasonating voice making clear it's no mere request.
[16:36] <Kotono> OOC - Intimidation check then?
[16:36] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28
[16:36] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 and gets 44."12 [1d20=16]
[16:37] <Kotono> OOc - No point rolling, he can't beat that.
[16:38] <Kotono> The berserker's face cracks a moment as a rush of fear overtakes him. With a look of distinct hatred, "Eudard must be made to succumb to his rage. The rest of you must repent or die. The lying devil must be captured and dragged back into the pit."
[16:39] <Alicia> "So you do Hell's dirty work for it?" Alicia clarifies, voice dripping with contempt. "How lovely to see the Loyal Fury now reduced to a worthless puppet of Baator."
[16:39] <Kotono> With a look of fury, "Serve the devils? Hardly! There is only one place devils should be suffered to exist, and that is the Nine hells! Her presence in this world is a travesty!"
[16:40] <Alicia> "Then is it the Abyss that Torm now calls home?" Alicia presses. "Tell me where your Lord dwells."
[16:43] <Kotono> "The true House of the Triad," he answers, "Where else would the greatest god be?"
[16:44] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 planes where's that
[16:44] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 planes where's that and gets 23."12 [1d20=8]
[16:44] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 planes where's that Marie as well
[16:44] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 planes where's that Marie as well and gets 30."12 [1d20=15]
[16:47] <Alicia> "Ilmater must love having that guy living on his doorstep," Marie snorts from beside Alicia.
[16:55] <Kotono> The servant of Torm seems to pay no heed to Marie at all, simply staring with a shaken but distinct fury at Alicia.
[16:56] <Alicia> She's sadly used to being neglected. But Alicia picks up the slack. "So what will Torm do now that you've failed him?" she asks bluntly.
[16:59] <Kotono> "I offer myself to the Hateful Fury." He answers honestly, "If his rage consumes me for my failure, so be it. I failed him." His face becomes pained, bowing his head, "He gave me a chance to die in glorious fury and I wasted it."
[17:00] <Alicia> "We're not talking about you!" Marie pipes up indignantly, while Alicia smoothly takes over.
[17:00] <Alicia> "Who or what will he send to deal with heretics in your place?" she asks.
[17:02] <Kotono> "Silence, worthless pixie," He retorts to Marie, before, "I know not the further will of my God on this matter, for I had not expected to fail."
[17:04] <Alicia> "Why were you so confident, then?" Alicia asks. "How exactly did you intend to drive Eudard into frothing rage? What plan did you have for defeating me and my friends?" Knowing what tactics, if any, they use can be useful if they try it again.
[17:05] <Kotono> "I am not the one that knows that. He died a glorious death on your blade," The servant of Torm answers. "My Lord was granted an honorable death."
[17:07] * Alicia resists the urge to sigh. "Then tell me what you and your lord did between arriving on this plane and encountering us? Besides dressing up as women, that is."
[17:09] <Kotono> "We were waiting on him as he did business in Balmuria." He answers shortly, almost a bark.
[17:11] <Alicia> "Yes, I hear he made quite the adorable serving wench," Alicia agrees flippantly. "Very important business, that. Well, moving on - who are Torm's allies and servants? Those mightier than your Lord?"
[17:16] <Kotono> "My Lord is Supreme! He serves no one!" The prisoner answers hotly.
[17:18] <Alicia> "I'm talking about that sorry excuse for a planetar, not your god," Alicia replies in frustration. "You seem to use my lord interchangably when referring to them. Who are Torm's servants that could actually pose a threat to us?"
[17:21] <Kotono> "Any he sends forth to you," He answers again, "For they will come with rage and fury to lay you low!"
[17:23] <Alicia> "And their rage will be as empty and meaningless as yours," Alicia replies with a glare. "Cease your insolent posturing and answer my questions. I wish to know what Torm has at his disposal that is more powerful than the planetar we cut down. And what allies does he have among the Gods?"
[17:25] <Kotono> OOC - Go ahead and make another intimidation check?
[17:25] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28
[17:25] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 and gets 44."12 [1d20=16]
[17:29] <Kotono> "There are many servants..." His words are much more checked now, cowed. "The Great Solar Oilia commands My Lord. AS for the other Gods, Torm shall command them all!"
[17:29] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 who's Oilia?
[17:29] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 who's Oilia? and gets 16."12 [1d20=1]
[17:29] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 who's Oilia? Marie
[17:29] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 who's Oilia? Marie and gets 19."12 [1d20=4]
[17:29] <Seira> roll 1d20+11 even I'm curious!
[17:29] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+11 even I'm curious! and gets 22."12 [1d20=11]
[17:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 Antenora's curious too if everyone else is.
[17:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 Antenora's curious too if everyone else is. and gets 26."12 [1d20=10]
[17:32] <Alicia> "You say he shall command them - do I take it from that then that none have sworn their allegiance to him as yet?" Alicia asks, needling home the point of just how absurd Torm's ambitions are.
[17:38] <Kotono> "Silence wiht your heresy," He retorts, glaring at Alicia once more.
[17:39] <Alicia> "It was a simple question," Alicia leans closer, her voice taunting, "But I take it from your reply that the other Gods all treat Torm's ambition with the scorn and derision that it deserves?"
[17:40] <Kotono> "You speak down to the Hateful Fury?" The follower's voice b ecomes sharper as his eyes narrow again.
[17:42] <Alicia> "I do!" Alicia affirms proudly. "As I'll speak down to any being that has nothing more meaningful than hate to motivate it. Torm was once worthy of my respect, but no more! He is a pathetic, wretched thing, deserving of nothing more than pity."
[17:43] <Kotono> There is a moment, and then with a feral scream...!!!(More)
[17:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[17:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 16."12 [1d20=7]
[17:43] <Kotono> The berserker strains against her chains! They go taunt but hold, even as he tries to squirm and break out of his bonds!
[17:45] <Kotono> *his
[17:47] * Alicia slams her hand down on the floor beside his head with enough force to have caved in his face if she'd been a few inches to the right. "If anything can get through that thick skull of yours, hear this! Your rage is an empty, meaningless thing to me!" she bellows.
[17:47] <Alicia> Meanwhile Marie nocks her bow as she flies directly above and aims it down at him. "She's right. You're not impressing any of us," the pixie speaks with her normally unimposing voice backed up by powerful magic to sound far more powerful.
[17:47] <Alicia> OOC: we're both trying to intimidate him to make him shaken then frightened/cowering
[17:51] <Kotono> OOC - Roll.
[17:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28 Alicia
[17:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 Alicia and gets 29."12 [1d20=1]
[17:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 Marie
[17:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 Marie and gets 29."12 [1d20=16]
[17:51] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 Alicia
[17:51] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 Alicia and gets 18."12 [1d20=2]
[17:51] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14 Marie
[17:51] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 Marie and gets 31."12 [1d20=17]
[17:52] <Kotono> The intimidation seems to have some effect, though the berserker doesn't stop! Shaken not or not he attempts to break his bonds once more!
[17:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 27."12 [1d20=20]
[17:54] <Kotono> CRACK! THe manacles around his arms break in twain, shattering! The chians holding his legs crack and half dislodge, weak links flying apart!  OOC - The berserker's shaken but still going in it's frenzy. I'm going to call initiative here since it's managed to get out of it's bonds.
[17:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5 A
[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 A and gets 10."12 [1d20=5]
[17:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7 M
[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 M and gets 14."12 [1d20=7]
[17:55] <Seira> roll 1d20+12 for the love of....
[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+12 for the love of.... and gets 19."12 [1d20=7]
[17:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 I know, right?
[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 I know, right? and gets 24."12 [1d20=19]
[17:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 berserker
[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 berserker and gets 14."12 [1d20=12]
[17:56] * Kotono changes topic to 'Antenora>Seira>Marie=Berserker>Alicia'
[17:56] <Kotono> Antenora holds, readying her spear for now. OOC - Seira.
[17:58] <Seira> Going through her options, Seira decides to recast Slow on this annoyance.
[17:58] <Seira> OOC: dc23
[17:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[17:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 11."12 [1d20=4]
[17:59] <Seira> "Cool off a bit," she mutters, dispensing with the magic.
[17:59] <Kotono> Quickly casting, the berserker is slowed down in the whims of magic, going in slow motion! OOC - Marie and the berserker are up.
[17:59] <Alicia> "Calm down!" Marie yelps as the chains break.
[18:00] <Alicia> OOC: DC 21 suggestion
[18:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 8."12 [1d20=1]
[18:00] <Kotono> At those words, the berserker starts to slowly lunge for Alicia, close enough to swing as Marie's command takes effect!
[18:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 (-4 unarmed, -1 nonlethal, -8 PA)
[18:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 (-4 unarmed, -1 nonlethal, -8 PA) and gets 18."12 [1d20=6]
[18:01] <Kotono> However, the blow simply glances off her breastplate as the bersekrer falls down! His gaze becomes much calmer, the frenzy passing as he looks up, sedate.
[18:02] * Alicia sighs as she unclenches her fists. "Thank you, Marie," she nods to her familiar. "Clearly we need better manacles."
[18:02] <Kotono> OOC - -1 slow I meant, doesn't matter.
[18:02] <Kotono> "I can try entangling him," ANtenora offers.
[18:03] <Seira> "And better rope," Seira observes.
[18:04] <Alicia> "If he can break iron he can certainly break rope," Alicia shakes her head. "Anyway, Marie's suggestion should keep him relaxed for the rest of the day... Feeling better, are you?" she asks the sedated berserker.
[18:05] <Kotono> "I still hurt," he says slowly, drawling. "But I just can't seem to get angry now."
[18:06] <Alicia> "Marie has that effect on people," Alicia notes. "Anyway, I don't really think he can tell us much more - anyone else have any questions?" she asks the others.
[18:07] <Kotono> "I want to stay with him after and try talking to him," Antenora speaks up. "I may be wasting my time, but I'd like to try."
[18:08] <Seira> "I'm just curious whether he knows of Torm's plans for his other servants, besides Eudard," Seira speaks.
[18:09] <Alicia> "Most thought I was wasting my time with you," Alicia muses before prompting the prisoner at Seira's question. "Well?"
[18:11] <Kotono> "We are to deal with this city only," He answers easily, like a person chatting with another to pass the day. "I'm afraid I don't know what his other plans are."
[18:12] <Seira> "Well, I wasn't expecting much," Seira muses. "I suppose this is all I need, so I'll be on my way."
[18:12] <Alicia> "That's fine," Alicia opens the cell door and pats Antenora on the back as she steps out. "He's all yours. Try to make sure he's restrained again before, hm... fourteen hours elapse."
[18:13] <Kotono> "I'll make sure," Antenora smiles a little at that, "I'm be sure he won't be able to move unless I let him."
[18:14] <Alicia> "Good luck!" Marie cheerfully waves to Antenora as she and Alicia depart.
[18:15] <Kotono> Thus the three return to Oberuth. Demedais is there as well, the five meeting. "How'd it go? Did he talk?" Oberuth asks on their arrival.
[18:17] <Alicia> "Nothing especially startling," Alicia admits. "Filling Eudard with frothing rage and killing the Crimson Guard seemed to be their main objectives."
[18:17] * Demedais exhales sharply at this. "So he has drawn attention..."
[18:19] <Alicia> "It seems that the sorry excuse for a planetar was the one doing all the planning for the group, which I find oddly comforting even if it meant our prisoner didn't know much," Alicia goes on. "He managed to break his manacles quite easily when I told him of his god's failings, but Marie calmed him down quickly enough and Antenora's with him now."
[18:22] <Kotono> "Damnations," Oberuth steeples his hands together and grimaces. "So Eudard was a target as well. It makes his status more important to us than before. Also, they were to try and kill you?"
[18:22] <Alicia> "Or make us repent, but I got the impression they'd prefer the direct approach," Alicia nods.
[18:27] <Kotono> "I see. For the moment..." Oberuth hesitates, thinks as he glowers. "What do you three think should be done? I'd like to take that under consideration."
[18:29] <Seira> "Quite frankly, Torm's temple is troublesome," Seira says. "If his followers subscribe to his teachings, it can't be a good thing for us. If they don't, Torm would just send more planetars to smite them down. It is a liability either way."
[18:30] <Demedais> "Firstly, this makes convincing Eudard something that needs to be done. I will go talk to him when we are done here. As for what else... I would prefer a tempered approach; though dealing with Torm's temple is something that must be done, care must be taken to explain to the believers precisely what has happened, I believe. While the full details of that event need not and probably should not be disclosed, the truth should be told."
[18:30] <Alicia> "People need to be made aware of what exactly Torm is all about, now," Alicia states matter-of-factly. "If he's no different than Cyric or Malar then why should he be treated differently? Right now they're coasting on the good reputation Torm has always had, but the bile espoused by his church grows more and more pronounced, and now he's actually sending outsiders here to do his dirty work. People deserve to hear the truth, ugly as it may be."
[18:31] <Alicia> "
[18:31] <Alicia> may be."
[18:32] <Demedais> "Seira, I understand your position; the only issue is that the problem is now here to stay. He will track them down no matter what we do here, if you are right; it does not sound like he cares much about anyone else's observations. Were this a group trying to build a new temple, I would agree, but at this point the damage is done, even if they go to other temples now."
[18:33] <Seira> "I disagree. This clearly does not apply to any new faithful, for a start," Seira responds with a shrug.
[18:33] <Alicia> "Demedais, I respectfully disagree," Alicia puts in. "The temple is not static - its entire purpose is to entice new worshippers. We cannot allow this."
[18:34] <Kotono> "I agree, it is a liability," Oberuth shakes his head with a note of sadness in his voice. "I had thought Torm's church would be a blessing when I first heard of it. However," Oberuth raises a hand up here, clearing his throat ot interject.
[18:37] <Kotono> "I don't think smashing into it blindly is smart. Frankly, I'm worried that things could go sour and turn into a destructive battle. If there are those in the temple like Eudard that can be peeled away first, all the better. If the Temple can be severed from the anger of Torm, even better. Before we declare them evil and take strong action, we should explore more subtle avenues. However, even if we align Eudard with ourselves and a few others,
[18:37] <Kotono> However, even if we align Eudard with ourselves and a few others, will it matter much for this temple, or will the same thing scontinue?"
[18:38] <Demedais> "By 'the same things', I presume you mean Torm's servants coming?
[18:38] <Seira> "What if our prisoner were chained down at the entrance to the temple and extolled the virtues of the angry fury or whatever Torm styles himself these days?" Seira asks with a smile.
[18:40] <Demedais> "Such a thing would simply be senseless and antagonistic." Demedais shakes his head.
[18:40] <Alicia> "Well, this is but one temple, isn't it?" Alicia notes. "How many others are in the Baronies? Across the world? Torm has the benefit of a massive entrenchment that The Black Hand himself could only dream of. But regardless he is evil and evil should be opposed. To do otherwise would merely make us enablers."
[18:41] <Demedais> "And yet doing that simply attacks the leaves and not the root of the problem - the God-King. One potential outcome is that once he is dead, Torm's rage will be able to calm." Demedais counters.
[18:42] <Kotono> "Too many," Oberuth shakes his head, "That's why I'd prefer NOT to provoke all of them and give them a golden reason to think that we're the enemy. We have devil problems, giants on our borders and Gods only know what else on the horizon. I don't want Balmuria the target of religion strife as well if at all possible."
[18:42] <Alicia> "What?" Alicia blinks. "Why... how did you come to that conclusion, Demedais?" she asks in surprise.
[18:42] <Kotono> *religious
[18:42] <Seira> "But, with all due respect, we ARE enemies with Torm's true followers."
[18:44] <Demedais> "It is the God-King who started all this, correct? The cause of the rage, so to speak. It is not too hard to conclude that slaying the False God will help stem the issue, though it may not be as effective as hoped. Still, I would believe it to be a better solution."
[18:45] <Seira> "Or it could have been the issue with Zariel. Or others we simply don't know about," Seira points out.
[18:47] <Seira> "Let's face the facts, here. Torm is a millenia-long embarrassment to the other gods. Whenever his name is dropped, all conversation stops and people and celestials alike all look shifty! Just why should we go to such lengths to help someone even fellow deities apparently gave up on?"
[18:47] <Alicia> "I..." Alicia just shakes her head. "No, I just can't see it. Torm's rage is his own problem, and there's no one we can kill that will make it go away. Furthermore, even if it did, are we to simply stand idly by and let Torm and his maddened followers run rampant in the hopes they'll abruptly turn their attention to embroidery and basket-weaving once we kill Daa-vid? There's no telling how long that'll take."
[18:49] <Demedais> "If the latter, then there is little we can do but remove the temples." Demedais nods. "And if the former, that still connects back, in its way, to the God-King. But I cannot see running around all over this world attempting to root out any and all traces of his faith making us any allies, nor will it be all that productive time-wise. Doing this will make us even more enemies amongst those that witness us."
[18:50] <Kotono> Oberuth leans back in his chair and listens to the party, quiet for the moment. "
[18:51] <Seira> "Not if we just torch them, no, but I don't see routing a country-wide infestation of temples to Shar as gaining us enemies among the population. No, it all comes down to good and undserved PR, and we have to strike there!"
[18:51] <Alicia> "I'm not saying we should cover the entire world ourselves and slay every follower of Torm any more than I would espouse doing the same with Shar - a deity I have far more reason to dislike. But we should at least spread the word so that no one else is tricked into worshipping a God who mocks the ideals that his church has stood for for millenia," Alicia argues.
[18:53] <Demedais> "And attracting the rage of those followers worldwide as well as those who have known nothing but this new church and are drawn to it?" Demedais shakes his head. "They have no -proof-. We may know we speak truth, but it will not get us far. In this, Oberuth is right; while we must deal with the temple here, to antagonize the rest of their followers in doing so will not benefit us. We have little good options here, I will confess; but I cannot see angeri
[18:54] <Demedais> "We have little good options here, I will confess; but I cannot see angering the hornet's nest as one of them."
[18:54] <Seira> "Our proof is chilling in our dungeons."
[18:55] <Kotono> "On that," Oberuth speaks up, "We have some proof potentially - our prisoner and Eudard," Oberuth speaks up, "And one of them has rank in Torm's church officially. Of course, we would need Eudard to cooperate completely."
[18:55] <Seira> "Any of Torm's faithfull should feel his words resonate with what Torm's been whispering into their ears," Seira agrees. "Eudard especially, yes."
[18:55] <Demedais> "Our proof, yes. Are you suggesting teleporting Eudard and the prisoner around to each and every temple to provide them with proof?" Demedais shakes his head.
[18:56] <Seira> "We're lucky enough to have established working relationships with other heads of state. Our word there would be enough," Seira states, believing in her words in earnest.
[18:57] <Demedais> "Again, perhaps it would to their heads of state, but quite possibly not to those in the temples themselves." Demedais shakes his head. "I cannot see simply going about it in that method as being effective enough."
[18:58] <Alicia> "When has faith ever required proof?" Alicia speaks up. "We don't need to see Torm bathing in a lake of brimstone and attended by screaming tortured souls when we can judge him by the words of his followers. I have heard the vitriol meted out by the clerics of that eyesore of a temple, and have no doubt that every other cleric touched by Torm is speaking similar bile."
[18:58] <Alicia> "We should expose their hatred and rage for all to see, and let people make their own judgements, free of any lingering sentiment of Torm's past deeds."
[18:58] <Seira> "You are confusing effective with perfect, Demedais. This method is indeed the most effective one, but it hardly covers every angle and allows us to instantly convert every faithful. But nothing ever could."
[19:00] <Demedais> "I do not think it would be effective as all, is the thing. But I can see my words are making no difference, here." Demedais shakes his head. "Since it seems to be the majority's will to handle it in this manner, I will step aside here and go address Eudard. Commander, is this permissible?"
[19:01] <Seira> "I have trust in human nature and perception," Seira says with a shrug. "I guess we'll see."
[19:02] <Kotono> "Go on, Eudard needs to be settled as soon as possible," Oberuth agrees.
[19:02] * Demedais nods, salutes, and leaves without any further comments.
[19:03] <Kotono> OOC - #evil, Deme.
[19:08] <Kotono> Once Demedais is gone, Oberuth rubs his temple. "I understand your zeal, but I distinctly do not want a potential religious battle in the streets of Balmuria. We're under periodic assault from devils and other problems. If we need to excise Torm's temple at the end, so be it, but we have to use some restraint and intelligence."
[19:13] <Seira> "I disliked him ever since I heard the story of Zariel, and more at every turn," Seira admits. "But if you want restraint, Sir, you'll have it."
[19:16] <Kotono> "I don't have any use for someone who preaches rage, either," Oberuth's voice has a faint note of disdain, but is otherwise proper. "We just can't have this turn into yet another incident. The Crimson Guard is strong enough, yes, but this city is growing. If a serious battle breaks out in it...there will likely be casualities of innocents."
[19:18] <Seira> "Less than if we let them gain more allies and strike when they are ready, and not at a time of our choosing," Seira points out.
[19:22] <Alicia> "Sir, I don't propose to attack the temple or anything so obvious," Alicia shakes her head, "Merely to inform the people of what they're truly getting into by putting their faith in such a deity."
[19:23] <Seira> "And have a bit of magic ready for crowd control in case the zealots get violent, right?"
[19:24] <Alicia> "If they choose to lend proof to our words so readily," Alicia nods grimly. "The fact remains that this temple is a festering sore in Balmuria. The longer it is left alone the harder it will become to excise."
[19:29] <Kotono> "That's still provoking them, I suppose, but..." Oberuth nods once to it. "Think your plans over while we wait on Demedais. I want Eudard resolved before any of us move on the temple. I'd hate to lose a potentially useful ally because we jumped too early."
[19:31] <Alicia> "My intention was simply to place myself in the square outside that temple and speak the truth to any who listen," Alicia replies. "I can wait for today at least."
[19:36] <Kotono> There's a nod and then a silence that stretches awhile. Then..."At least the city's more or less peaceful now. With summer and all the traders, it's overflowing," Oberuth smiles a little, "I've never seen this many people in Balmuria before."
[19:36] <Seira> "My intention was to do the same in the Citadel, in a manner of speaking," Seira adds. "I'll be leaving with first light, unless my presence is particularly needed here." At Oberuth's words, she smiles herself. "Never expected to see dwarves! Here, or at all!"
[19:37] <Alicia> "Indeed. I'd never seen even one back home or in the lands between here and there," Alicia agrees. "Sea elves, too."
[19:38] <Kotono> "Or elves being fairly common. There's even a female human that's fallen in love with a male elf. The engagement made a few ripples last week," Despite this, Oberuth's smile becomes stronger. "I just wish all of this didn't come with all of Evil's worst."
[19:39] <Seira> "Sea elves were a very welcome surprise. Elves! Living in the ocean!" Seira blinks. "Why would it make them sea elves?"
[19:40] <Kotono> "Because they live in the sea?" Oberuth says deadpan.
[19:40] <Seira> "It's totally an ocean!"
[19:40] <Alicia> "That little bay?" Alicia asks, gesturing to the North. "That's not an ocean at all."
[19:41] <Seira> "What about the plane of water? You can't say that's just a sea!"
[19:41] <Kotono> "It's semantic," Oberuth starts to laugh, "If you want ot try and change their name to bay elves, try away."
[19:42] <Seira> "I'll raise the notion," Seira says in all seriousness. "Maybe they would like to be bay elves."
[19:44] <Kotono> "If we end up working out some arraingement over helping ships and recover cargo, I'll even second the motion," Oberuth laughs heartily at this, "Maybe they'll motion to start calling you a draconic name as well now?"
[19:45] <Seira> "What's one more alias? All the cool people in the legends have lots of those."
[19:46] <Alicia> "You're right!" the previously silent Marie pipes up. "I was talking to Antenora about this the other day, and she was all 'what have you done to deserve one?', but even if you haven't done much if you make up a really good sounding one it could be like a self-fulfilling name!"
[19:48] <Alicia> "So if you called yourself 'Marielle the wise' then you might actually become more worldly?" Alicia favours her familiar with a brief smile.
[19:48] * Seira (~corwin@bzq-79-181-172-46.red.bezeqint.net) Quit (atarians.dejatoons.net betamax.dejatoons.net)
[19:48] * Demedais (~ferixstad@141.218.208.193) Quit (atarians.dejatoons.net betamax.dejatoons.net)
[19:48] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@70.114.129.129) Quit (atarians.dejatoons.net betamax.dejatoons.net)
[19:48] <Alicia> "Something like that, but it'd need to be something with more style and panache than just 'the wise'," the eladrin nods.
[19:50] * Taishyr (~ferixstad@141.218.208.193) has joined #dunes
[19:50] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[19:52] * Seira (~corwin@bzq-79-181-172-46.red.bezeqint.net) has joined #dunes
[19:52] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Seira
[19:55] * Seira sets mode: +o Demedais
[19:58] <Kotono> With a wary look at Marie, "Dragon says a lot, doesn't it?" OBeruth suggests.
[19:59] <Alicia> "Sure. I guess, if you're into that sort of thing," Marie replies, crossing her arms and looking away.

[Corwin]

[19:07] <Kotono> -----
[19:07] <Kotono> After some time of waiting, Seira, Alicia and Commander Oberuth see Demedais returning. Behind him is Eudard, his face deeply composed as he follows, grave.
[19:09] * Alicia nods in greeting to the pair while her familiar gives Eudard a slightly less friendly look. "Well?" the female paladin prompts.
[19:10] <Demedais> "I think handling the issue of the temple will have to wait after all. Helm has ordered us two - and the Crimson Guard, as well, were requested - to go handle the demonic surge. It sounds like it's in the land we traversed last time, the dead wasteland." Demedais says concisely
[19:11] * Seira bristles at being ordered around by Helm. "You had a vision?" she asks Demedais.
[19:12] <Demedais> "It also sounds like a rather present threat at this point." Demedais says, before shaking his head to Seira. "No. He spoke directly as to what should be done."
[19:12] <Alicia> Marie opens her mouth but then shuts it on receiving a firm look from Alicia. "Very well," she agrees smoothly. "While Torm's church is a danger in our midst, it likely presents less risk to others than a group of demons on the loose. It can wait, at least until we have dealt with this matter."
[19:16] <Seira> "I suppose I could go along with this request," Seira muses, though she doesn't sound particularly happy about it. "I guess I owe Helm a bit."
[19:17] <Kotono> "Even that aside, the obvious is that the demons do need to be stopped," OBeruth nods curtly to it, "If Helm's asking, then I'm not going to say no. How strong a force are you bringing then?"
[19:17] <Alicia> "It's not about owing Helm, Seira, it's about having a responsibility to the people of the Baronies," Alicia points out. "Sending demons back to the Abyss is something I'd do anyway, this news simply pushes forward the timetable."
[19:17] <Seira> "I must be misunderstanding something. Just where are these demons?"
[19:18] <Alicia> "Esthan said they were around the border between the Fiefdoms and the Baronies," Marie pipes up.
[19:19] <Seira> "That's the thing," Seira admits. "It's pretty far from the dead wastelands, so what's up?"
[19:19] <Demedais> "How many people can be taken with the teleport? Eudard and I will both be going, so." Demedais says, before looking to Seira. "The way Helm phrased it was 'West will the Crimson Guard travel. Chaos spawns there from the broken lands, the endless ravages of the Abyss.' So to me, it sounds like the source is somewhere in that waste we traversed to find your father. This leaves some issues, yes; I think the best bet is to search for that ro
[19:20] <Demedais> "This leaves some issues, yes; I think the best bet is to search for that rogue group first and then check the wastelands."
[19:21] <Alicia> "It could be they're moving from the Wasteland towards the border," Alicia suggests. "If we start at the border and move in the opposite direction we'd likely run into them one way or another."
[19:21] * Seira frowns. "See, Dad's staying at that fortress where we've found him. Had it been overrun, I would surely know about that."
[19:22] <Kotono> "This wasteland," Eudard speaks up now, "It's south of the Desert Fiefdoms?"
[19:22] <Seira> "It's pretty much the edge of the world."
[19:22] * Demedais looks to Eudard, giving a slight nod. "It is."
[19:22] <Alicia> "From frozen wasteland to baking wasteland," Alicia sighs, shaking her head. "We do get around."
[19:23] <Kotono> "I'm not familiar with western geography so much," Eudard protests, "But freezing wasteland? I thought Deserts were hot."
[19:25] <Demedais> "This world has some... surprising features." Demedais comments drily.
[19:25] <Alicia> "Just a few days ago we were in the far Northeast of Pallanth, where desolate frozen plains stretch over hundreds of miles," Alicia explains for Eudard's benefit.
[19:27] <Kotono> "...oh." Eudard raises an eyebrow but goes quiet after that.
[19:27] <Seira> "How about we wait till morning for me to have a brief chat with Dad? See if he knows anything as we plan our next move?"
[19:27] <Alicia> "We can't teleport anywhere until tomorrow anyway, so we might as well," Alicia agrees.
[19:28] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais shrugs.
[19:31] <Kotono> ---
[19:32] <Kotono> The next morning Seira rises. Gilartal prepares several Sendings on request for her, the two meeting in the Temple of Waukeen at Balmuria. As the daystar begins it's slow rise into the sky, "Aaah," Smothering a yawn, Gilartal sits and peers at Seira with slightly bleary eyes. "What's your message going to be?
[19:33] <Seira> "Da, a devil and Helm independantly told us demons are spawning from the broken lands of the west. Know anything?" Seira shrugs. "To the point, right? 'Dad' doesn't have to be there if it feels too awkward."
[19:37] <Kotono> With a faint smile and a yawn as he drinks strong tea, "I'll use SAul for it. Now then..." He gets to casting, praying to Waukeen to send his words far! After ten minutes, "...I see. To quote: Quiet. No problems. Studying Irenes' works and positive energy. Getting closer to remedy of condition. No sign of demons. Devil, what are you doing?!"
[19:39] <Seira> "Disappointing, but I'll live with it," Seira muses. "Could you please tell him that we'll keep him posted, and that the devil's just this acquaintance of a couple very nice paladins? Our other temples would also need a heads up, just in case the demons aren't only our problem."
[19:40] <Kotono> Ten minutes past, the second sending sent. "In short," after he finishes, "He says to be careful and that you need to make sure they're not blackguards instead. Anyway, anything else, Seira?"
[19:41] <Seira> "Unless our sister temples know something of relevance, just that you watch yourself. Between the mess with Torm and the demons possibly taking advantage of our absense and all."
[19:42] <Kotono> "I'll enquire about anything that may not have reached us here yet. If I hear anything I'll Sending you." Rising up and offering a hand, "Do have good luck haea dand the Lady's blessing."
[19:43] <Seira> "Thanks!"
[19:48] <Seira> roll 1d100
[19:48] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d100 and gets 13."12 [1d100=13]
[19:50] <Kotono> The four gather, teleported on the wings of magic! It's warm here - warm and dusty, the ground somewhat sandy. No, check that. It's hot. Unpleasantly hot. The sort of hot that makes you a sweaty ball of torment if you don't have protection against it. The small roadside village here is pleasant enough, the party appearing just outside of it. The sky is clear and blue, the sun streaming heat downward from it's lofty perch.
[19:51] * Seira is, for once, not bothered by the extreme conditions!
[19:53] <Alicia> "At least it's a dry heat," Alicia comments. "Well, shall we go and see if anyone in the village has seen or heard anything unusual?"
[19:53] <Seira> "Sounds like a good idea," Seira agrees, setting off inside the village proper.
[19:54] <Kotono> "I'd prefer a dry cold," Eudard squints up at the sky, following along.
[19:54] * Demedais shrugs, armor on and feeling unbothered. "Sounds like a decent plan." Demedais says, before looking to Eudard and nodding. "Ditto, but you'll get that soon enough, I assure you.
[19:57] <Kotono> The village - Seira remembers it's name is Hadrian - is nestled along the road. The land's fairly flat here, the buildings often white colored, like the general trend of buildings in the Desert Fiefdoms. While there's some sand and grit about, it's still not entirely desert. Most of the people in town are busy enough - of various sorts. There's a gamut of buildings - a currently closed p ub, a bakery, a cloth shop, general goods, an open air fo
[19:57] <Kotono> a currently closed p ub, a bakery, a cloth shop, general goods, an open air food market, this sort of thing. The group only gets a few looks - Seira perhaps another more, but none seem overly impressed by them.
[19:58] <Seira> The food market is the place to find out any rumors, and it might even have something fun from the fiefdoms she could purchase at the same time.
[20:00] <Kotono> The food here is mostly a mix. Grains and fruits from the Baronies, as well as salted meats, complimented by figs, dates and the like from the Fiefdoms. Housewives shop, some having the darker skin of the desert, while others are fairer. Merchants hawk goods, often in good natured arguments with the housewives. OOC - Gather info check?
[20:01] <Alicia> roll 1d20+12
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+12 and gets 14."12 [1d20=2]
[20:01] <Seira> roll 1d20+10
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+10 and gets 30."12 [1d20=20]
[20:02] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3 Eudard will attempt to help Seira, since Alicia doesn't seem to know what the fuck.
[20:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 Eudard will attempt to help Seira, since Alicia doesn't seem to know what the fuck. and gets 7."12 [1d20=4]
[20:03] <Demedais> roll 1d20+4 helping Seira, sorry Alicia you're on your own
[20:03] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+4 helping Seira, sorry Alicia you're on your own and gets 18."12 [1d20=14]
[20:03] <Kotono> Alicia ends up in a long, -riveting- conversation about the price of food on the trade market with a merchant. Fascinating stuff, really, if you make your living on if grain is 2 coppers higher the next town over. Eudard doesn't do much better, starting to talk to one woman, who takes umbrage and says that she's not the sort to cheat around. However, Demedais and Seira are more soccessful! (More)
[20:05] <Kotono> "Oh," One of the merchants, a man with a sparkle in his eye and a good mood, shakes a finger at them, "I know you two!" Lowering his voice, "You're from the Crimson Guard! What do you need? I have a son in the military, you know. I'm so glad that war didn't take off."
[20:07] <Seira> Yes, only a handful died in the early clashes. "Well, we're looking for anything out of the usual. Illegals coming from the desert, strange rumors, you name it."
[20:10] <Kotono> "Well..." Tapping his cheek as he thinks, "You know, there might be one thing. Have you ever gone south from here and a little west, right at the border? It's pretty nasty land and most aren't so st upid, but I know that there's a few nutcases that try. If you're looking for strange or unusual, they're the people to go see."
[20:11] <Seira> "Any of them happen to be in the area?" Seira inquires. "Having a guide or an informant would help quite a bit."
[20:12] <Kotono> "Hmm.." He strokes his chin, a mostache disturbed by this, "You'd need to go check the inn and see if any of them are. You might get lucky. Ask Old Pol about any of the nutters from Xandroa."
[20:13] <Seira> "Sounds like a plan! Thanks!" Seira smiles. "If you're in Balmuria and need something I could help you with, look me up!"
[20:14] * Demedais muses on this. "Xandroa? Alright. And indeed, if you come our way at any point, do stop by. Thank you again."
[20:15] <Kotono> "Hail the Crimson Guard," he keeps his voice down still, "As far as I'm concerned you guys walk on air. Safe travel." THus, the party is regathered as they head to the inn. It's a large, dormintory style building of logs painted a harsh white. The front's occupied by an old woman with a few cats sleeping in her lap, on her shoulders and around her. She peers her dim blue eyes at the party as they enter. "Looking for lodging?"
[20:16] <Seira> "Hi! We're looking for Old Pol," Seira greets the woman.
[20:17] <Kotono> "Hi," she answers back, as a feline meows. This place is lousy with cats - a few come trotting out, one coming up to Alicia and rubbing against her ankles. Another stares at Demedais like he's some sort of cat idol. "What do you want?"
[20:18] * Alicia smiles and pets the cat, letting Seira do the talking while her own head still swims with facts and figures about the grain market in these parts.
[20:19] <Seira> "We were hoping to hire someone from Xandroa as a guide. We can actually pay nicely for the privelege!"
[20:20] <Kotono> "Cats..." Eudard sniffles a little bit and steps back a few feet closer to the door. Meanwhile, "Xandroa? Yeah, I guess you'd be the sort who would want to go there..." she mutters loudly under her breath, not doing a good job of hiding the remark at all. "And why did you come to me to ask this?"
[20:22] <Seira> "Silly me, I thought you might be interested in the commission!"
[20:23] <Kotono> "Money? Well then, I suppose I am interested," Petting the cat on her lap, "I think we're talking better than I thought we were. There's a guy staying here who can take you there."
[20:23] <Kotono> Meanwhile, a cat comes up to Seira, starting to claw insistently at her leg.
[20:24] * Seira raises an eyebrow, looking down at the cat. "Excellent!" she tells the woman. "Can we talk to him?"
[20:26] <Kotono> "Sure," Gesturing back there, "He's a short fellow wearing plain clothes. You'll know him since he's missing an eye. Name's Melk. Tell him that if he doesn't talk to you I'll come calling on his tab."
[20:26] * Seira smiles again, and heads for Melk!
[20:27] <Demedais> "Thank you, ma'am." Demedais bows, before following Seira.
[20:27] <Alicia> "Thank you," Alicia gives the elderly woman an appreciative smile as she heads through.

[Corwin]

[18:20] <Kokokokokoko> ----
[18:20] <Kokokokokoko> Okay Alicia, what's your plan for the next few days. What do you want to do? If it involves Seira, say so and we'll both talk together.
[18:25] <Alicia> First I'll drop in on Anty to see how the deprogramming is going and offer assistance if needed. After that I'll suggest to the clerics at Mystra's temple to start warning people about Torm and maybe do a sermon/lecture or two myself (don't really care to RP preaching to the choir). In deference to Deme I'll avoid directly calling out those losers for now. After that could go for a item purification sidequest.
[18:26] <Kokokokokoko> Okay.
[18:26] <Kokokokokoko> ----
[18:29] <Kokokokokoko> The dungeons of the garrison aren't the friendliest place. Here men sit in captivity to be judged for crimes high and low, caged like animals. Here a Corruption Devil has assaulted Alicia once before, here a mysterious fallen angel has materialized to kidnap those held here. Yet this day Antenora is here, sitting in a closed cell with a strange planar creature. It is chained with dozens of chains connected to the walls, ceiling and floor,
[18:29] <Kokokokokoko> It is chained with dozens of chains connected to the walls, ceiling and floor, unable to move in the least. HIs limbs are splayed out, body supported on the ground only by some loose straw. (More)
[18:30] <Kokokokokoko> Antenora sits next to him on the cold stone floor, armor gleaming with the light from the cell door like a candle in the dimness. The two are currently locked in a long staredown, neither blinking. It fills the cell with a palpable sense of discord and unbending will and fury.
[18:32] * Alicia thinks the chains are probably a bit excessive and at the same time pointless, given the strength he's displayed previously. They need a greased pit or something to keep him in. "Not interrupting, am I?" she asks after entering the cell and closing the door behind her.
[18:34] <Kokokokokoko> "No," Antenora answers quickly, unblinking. "Do you see? She won't back down in the face of your rage either. It's pointless to continue this and you know it. Alicia and I beat you once before and we can do it again. I know Torm doesn't have a servant that's incapable of basic intelligence, so stop and start talking instead."
[18:36] <Kokokokokoko> The captive berserker does not break his gaze to even glance at Alicia. He says nothing, instead snarling and straining against his chains! They strain under the stress but do not give, his arms trying to thrash and coming to naught.
[18:37] <Alicia> "Really, Antenora, I don't think this approach is going to work," Alicia shakes her head, producing a key she took from one of the guards and holding it up for their prisoner to see as she approaches him. "If I were to release your bindings, what would you do?" she asks.
[18:38] <Kokokokokoko> The prisoner turns his gaze to Alicia. It is a gaze of venom and hatred, the heat of it nearly palpable on Alicia's flesh. He says nothing, instead simply looking. The red of his eyes ruin a certain majesty to his metallic colored skin, turning his cheeks to a ruddy red.
[18:43] <Alicia> "Is there no eloquence to your hate?" Alicia asks in the face of his silence. "A far cry from the rage I feel in the face of evil, that you yourself complimented yesterday - it demands to be expressed with every facet of our being."
[18:43] <Alicia> "Very well, since you only know one way to give vent your feelings, I will give you the chance to do so. Antenora, Marie - stand back," she asks, starting to unlock the chains while her familiar flutters just behind her.
[18:45] <Kokokokokoko> Antenora stands back, and with a slight smile on her face, 'Good luck,' she sends. 'I had hoped words would work, but no variant got through to him.'
[18:46] <Alicia> 'The chains were overdone. It's best to show we don't fear him,' Alicia reasons as she dutifully sets to releasing the prisoner. 'Hopefully once he tires himself out he'll be more agreeable.'
[18:47] <Kokokokokoko> 'I hope as well,' Antenora says, as the chains are freed! As they are the berserker's gaze turns to Alicia, anger boiling within!
[18:49] <Alicia> "Well?" Alicia stands back from the berserker, her stance loose and relaxed, ready to flow around any attacks he makes. "Are you going to unleash your rage with your fists once more, or can you endure the horrors of reason?"
[18:51] <Kokokokokoko> Like a lion, the berserker pounces on Alicia, fist lashing out! OOC - You can AoO if you wish.
[18:51] * Alicia lets the attack come, simply intending to avoid him for the moment.
[18:52] <Alicia> OOC: going total defense
[18:52] <Alicia> OOC: also, no AoO since I don't threaten while unarmed anyway.
[18:52] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d20 let's see if he hits a crit, really
[18:52] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0let's see if he hits a crit, really --> 6,0[ 1d20=2 ]4,0{2}
[18:52] <Kokokokokoko> He swings wide and poerfully, but whizzes past Alicia's side harmlessly! OOC - Alicia?
[18:53] <Kokokokokoko> Antenora stands back, a hand on her spear nonetheless as she watches carefully.
[18:54] <Alicia> "No good," Alicia remonstrates, moving back a little and goading him to come at her so that he's kept constantly on the move and off-balance, unable to fully press his assault.
[18:54] <Alicia> OOC: moving back so he won't get a full attack and maintaining total defense
[18:55] <Kokokokokoko> Antenora steps out of the cell to give Alicia more room, as the berserker comes again! He screams, no words as he strikes out!
[18:55] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d20 Max PAing, needs a twenty to hit.
[18:55] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0Max PAing, needs a twenty to hit. --> 6,0[ 1d20=11 ]4,0{11}
[18:56] <Kokokokokoko> Whiff! He swings with enough force to make the air whistle, but Alicia merely ducks aside and under the heavy handed blow!
[18:57] <Alicia> "If you hit me with that I'd really be feeling it," Alicia comments nonchalantly as she continues to lead the furious maniac on a merry chase around his cell. "A pity I saw it coming a mile away."
[18:58] <Kokokokokoko> Sprinting off, the berserker follows again and swings like a madman! "DIE!" he calls in Celestial, striking out!
[18:58] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d20 Max PAing, needs a twenty to hit.
[18:58] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0Max PAing, needs a twenty to hit. --> 6,0[ 1d20=9 ]4,0{9}
[18:58] <Kokokokokoko> Again he misses, half stumbling over a chain and grazing off Alicia's breastplate!
[18:59] <Alicia> "Wishing won't make it so," Alicia taunts, circling around and back once more.
[18:59] <Alicia> From where she's hovering in the centre of the room by the ceiling, Marie titters somewhat.
[19:00] <Kokokokokoko> Another charge and another furious swing meanwhile, the berserker's face raging and strained!
[19:00] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d20 max PA ect
[19:00] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0max PA ect --> 6,0[ 1d20=8 ]4,0{8}
[19:01] <Kokokokokoko> CLUNK! THe berserker's fits hit's the wall, sending a cloud of stones and stone dust flying! Antenora shakes her head, "It's futile. Even if you hit her, she won't go down. Even if you do somehow knock her out, I'll club you into submission. We're not going to hurt you, we just want to talk."
[19:03] <Alicia> "It's alright Antenora, even if you don't say anything he's got to figure it out sooner or later," Alicia replies seeming rather unconcerned with the stone-shattering punches being thrown her way as she circles back to the other side of the cell. "Come on, stop trying to hit me and hit me!"
[19:03] <Kokokokokoko> HE doesn't seem to care about what Alicia says, charging her and swinging again furiously!
[19:03] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d20 max PA ect
[19:03] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0max PA ect --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{5}
[19:04] <Kokokokokoko> Whoosh! He hits nothing but air this time, brushing against Alicia's side as the two dance around the small cell! They both hop and run over chains lying about, dancing here and there!
[19:05] <Alicia> "Come on, I know you can do better than this - and have the bruises to prove it!" Alicia gives him a mocking pep-talk as she slips under his flailing arms and across the cell.
[19:05] <Kokokokokoko> Again he charges, lost to his pure anger!
[19:05] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d20 max PA ect
[19:06] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d20 1,0max PA ect --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{7}
[19:06] <Kokokokokoko> Woosh! This time he just flat msises...and stops. He slinks to his knees, the straining of his muscles ceasing.
[19:06] <Alicia> "Have I made my point?" Alicia asks, not dropping her guard entirely in case it's merely a ruse.
[19:07] <Kokokokokoko> Alicia can hear him. He speaks in Celestial. "Lord of Fury, grant me the rage. Grant me the power to lay heretics and the unworthy low. Give me the power to strike this woman dead in your name!"
[19:07] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d100
[19:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=46 ]4,0{46}
[19:07] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d1000
[19:07] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d1000 --> 6,0[ 1d1000=293 ]4,0{293}
[19:16] <Kokokokokoko> Yet nothing happens to the prayers, only an empty silence.
[19:17] <Alicia> "Well?" Alicia asks in the dead silence that follows. "Has your faith given you sufficient strength to think throwing another punch will mean anything?"
[19:26] <Kokokokokoko> The pause is drawn out and long, only prayers to Torm murmured. At last he raises his head, "Kill me. I hav eno use for anything else of your words, heretic." He speaks in Celestial, the golden words and utterances sounding like ash in his tones.
[19:30] <Alicia> "No?" Alicia asks, raising an eyebrow. "No interest in learning where you went wrong? How to better yourself both as a person and as a warrior? Is your life truly so void of meaning that if you cannot burn out Torm's enemies then you must be burnt out yourself?" her words are firm, but not unkind, the paladin hoping that the sheer presence she puts behind them will give him pause enough to reanalyse his situation and priorities.
[19:31] <Kokokokokoko> OOC - Diplo check.
[19:31] <Alicia> She speaks in celestial as well, because it's a nice language and she gets so few chances to practice.
[19:31] <Alicia> roll 1d20+38
[19:31] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+38 --> 6,0[ 1d20=7 ]4,0{45}
[19:35] <Kokokokokoko> Thew ords bring more red to the man's cheeks even as his eyes close, a blush overtaking him. "Torm has given me true clarity. What do you offer? The empty words of Celestia and the House of the Triad? Empty improvement that does little?"
[19:39] <Alicia> "Does little?" Alicia repeats. "There's someone in this room who would very much dispute how 'little' such improvements mean. You yourself said that my rage in battle was admirable - Antenora's fury is likewise deserving of merit. Torm himself was once known as the Loyal Fury - do you really believe that a fury borne of unreasoning hatred is superior to one that springs from righteousness?"
[19:39] <Alicia> "That Torm as he is now is better than he was a millenia ago?"
[19:41] <Kokokokokoko> Antenora steps back in, a hand removing her hair ribbon. "I've been where you are and I bear cursed wings and many bad memories. Hatred is an empty end, burning bright only as long as you sacrifice yourself. If you're known the Heavens, how can you reject the peace and sense of bliss they offer? How is rage any competition for that?"
[19:43] <Kokokokokoko> *you've
[19:44] * Alicia waits for his response to her and Antenora before going further.
[19:59] <Kokokokokoko> "Bliss?" Spitting at Antenora, "You know nothing of bliss! Both of you will burn under the Hateful Fury for your heresy!" His face is angry and defiant, staring at both of them. "I don't need the bleating hopes of the HEavens, for Torm provides all."
[20:02] <Alicia> "Then why are you here?" Alicia asks pointedly. "The only thing Torm has provided you with is a bad attitude."
[20:09] <Kokokokokoko> "Torm provides all. Even if you imprison my flesh or torment my soul, I am not the first or the last." He spreads his arms wide, standing, "Even if Torm devours me for my failure, or consigns me to nothingness, more will come! For to be nothing within Torm is to be more exalted than the highest of the lords of the heavens! There is no greater honor than to be a part of true fury forever more! To be part of the Hateful Fury as he rends tho
[20:09] <Kokokokokoko> To be part of the Hateful Fury as he rends those impostors in the House of the Triad, or the devil heretics...none will be sweeter! Torm will provide all! Torm will provide all! Torm will provide all!"
[20:15] * Alicia stares in response to that for a long moment. It is quite plain that she is both appalled and pitying of the poor deluded fool. "If you keep saying it that isn't going to make it come true," she finally speaks. "Once Torm was a bold and stalwart enemy of those such as Bane and Cyric. Now he's reduced to hatching mad schemes against his former allies that will never see fruition... it's sickening."
[20:17] <Kokokokokoko> "It's true! None of you can realise what the truth is, blinded by your own hubris!" With a snarl that escapes his mouth, the berserker's muscles strain, body bulging. "Torm is more than you shall ever be! How can you claim to be more true than a God?"
[20:20] * Alicia leans down close to the berserker. "There are two Torms - the Loyal Fury and the Hateful Fury. You yourself claim that the Hateful Fury is supreme, do you not see the contradiction in that?"
[20:22] <Kokokokokoko> The berserker looks up, face close to Alicia. "How could Loyal fury be greater than the true fury of Torm?"
[20:23] <Alicia> "So you're saying that Torm used to be weak?" Alicia concludes.
[20:26] <Kokokokokoko> A sputter is all Alicia gets from the barbarian. Antenora meanwhile smiles a little at that. "I'm sur eyou'll say that he's found true power now or blah blah blah blah blah." Making a dismissive wave of her hand and stepping closer, "If Torm's gotten so much stronger, how come his servants lost to those he opposes so roundly?"
[20:30] <Alicia> "If Torm is perfect then that means you must support his past doctrine as much as anything he does now," Alicia elaborates. "Otherwise he's imperfect - if you admit that then you can find flaw with anything he does. And his current path is surely more deserving of criticism than his old one."
[20:32] <Kokokokokoko> "Yes. Torm's path now, it's a path of pain and anger. What do you feel once the rage burns out? Do you feel anything, like regret or sadness, or are you too far gone that you feel nothing at all but fear?" Antenora lowers her voice, "Are you afraid of Torm? You spoke so bravely of accepting your fate there, like you were trying to convince yourself."
[20:33] * Alicia thinks Antenora's on to something with this particular line, and waits to see how it plays out.
[20:35] <Kokokokokoko> The berserker tries to speak a few times, but the words of both women drive him quiet. Seeing this chance, Antenora continues. "I remember being so afraid of my superior or of failing. What did I have to look forward to? Scraping a little higher on the ladder or oblivion and demotion if I failed. What for you? Oblivion as food for Torm or torment here as we hold you. It's a dead end. No matter how high you climb, even to stand besides Tor
[20:35] <Kokokokokoko> It's a dead end. No matter how high you climb, even to stand besides Torm himself, you won't escape that cycle. No matter how high you climb in the filth of the Lower Planes...you'll never claw your way to happiness within them."
[20:39] <Alicia> "Don't you see? We have strength, confidence, and happiness - and the way we live is very much in keeping with what Torm used to teach his followers. What do you have from his current path except empty promises of power that never quite measure up, fear, and hatred?" Alicia presses the point home.
[20:42] <Kokokokokoko> OOC - Diplo? +6, +4 for railing on him good and +2 for Antenora aiding.
[20:43] <Alicia> roll 1d20+44
[20:43] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+44 --> 6,0[ 1d20=5 ]4,0{49}
[20:46] <Kokokokokoko> "I have...I have..." For a moment, for a few moments the berserker cracks, before, "I have Torm. Torm will provide."
[20:49] <Alicia> "He won't," Alicia sits down next to him. "That's not his way. Maybe once he would have shown mercy and kindness to one such as you... but now? You've said it yourself, he's all fury and hate. He hates you."
[20:59] <Kokokokokoko> "You can't escape that no matter how well you serve him. But...there's another way. You can escape the cycle and do better," Antenora goes to his other side, flanking him with Alicia. "There's always another way if you're willing to try."
[21:03] <Kokokokokoko> "Torm will provide. Torm will provide..." The berserker murmurs, his voice losing it's intensity. It sounds more like someone simply saying something, not even quite a chant.
[21:03] <Alicia> "It wouldn't even be betraying Torm, when you could simply realise the ideals he once championed," Alicia adds temptingly. "We won't force you, but you must consider the alternatives and see your situation for what it is."
[21:06] <Kokokokokoko> "Torm walked a good path for a long time. Isn't it worthy for you to walk it as well?" Antenora asks again, gently probing.

[Corwin]

[19:41] <Alicia> [20:46] <Kokokokokoko> "I have...I have..." For a moment, for a few moments the berserker cracks, before, "I have Torm. Torm will provide."
[19:41] <Alicia> [20:49] <Alicia> "He won't," Alicia sits down next to him. "That's not his way. Maybe once he would have shown mercy and kindness to one such as you... but now? You've said it yourself, he's all fury and hate. He hates you."
[19:41] <Alicia> [20:59] <Kokokokokoko> "You can't escape that no matter how well you serve him. But...there's another way. You can escape the cycle and do better," Antenora goes to his other side, flanking him with Alicia. "There's always another way if you're willing to try."
[19:41] <Alicia> [21:03] <Kokokokokoko> "Torm will provide. Torm will provide..." The berserker murmurs, his voice losing it's intensity. It sounds more like someone simply saying something, not even quite a chant.
[19:41] <Alicia> [21:03] <Alicia> "It wouldn't even be betraying Torm, when you could simply realise the ideals he once championed," Alicia adds temptingly. "We won't force you, but you must consider the alternatives and see your situation for what it is."
[19:41] <Alicia> [21:06] <Kokokokokoko> "Torm walked a good path for a long time. Isn't it worthy for you to walk it as well?" Antenora asks again, gently probing.
[19:54] <Kotono> "I will walk Torm's path...for he...will...provide." The voice of the berserker cracks as he speaks, the powerful words on both sides of him making him go back and forth. The two paladins surround him, encompassing his form.
[19:58] <Alicia> "Which path?" Alicia presses. "The path of hate, madness, and tyranny? Or the path of honour, justice, and protection? Will you accept salvation when it is offered, or will you remain damned?" She stands up, towering over the berserker but offering him a hand. "Choose," she concludes, tone filled with finality.
[20:01] <Kotono> "The endless ravages can't have you unless you choose to let them," Antenora lays a hand on his shoulder, "There's always a way to get out. This is your chance, your way. This is the path that the true Fury, the true Torm, would want you to walk."
[20:02] * Alicia also lets her holy radiance fill the room, since it's a powerful visual symbol and may help in getting through to him.
[20:11] <Kotono> The man's eyes go to Alicia, his posture slackening. In a feather soft voice that is yet ragged with pain, "So beautiful...Torm...Strike me down if I fail you..." he murmurs, taking Alicia's hand.
[20:13] * Alicia clasps his hand in her own, drawing him to his feet. "Follow me, and I will show you the true power of unchanging justice," she promises. "Tell me, what is your name?"
[20:15] <Kotono> Antenora smiles and sighs out, standing as well. "Aym." His body shakes a little, his gaze fixiated on Alicia and her light. "Aym of Torm, Chosen to destroy and punish."
[20:18] <Alicia> "Well, Aym, I Alicia Reynes will show you how to destroy and punish those who truly deserve it, how to focus your rage and do battle with the vilest of foes while protecting those deserving of succor." Her tone is warm but at the same time imperious and commanding, "The way ahead for you will be difficult, as it is for all who walk the righteous path. But there are rewards even beyond your current understanding as well."
[20:23] * CC is now known as Seira
[20:26] <Kotono> Aym's gaze doesn't turn away from Alicia, "...I understand...but...I thought you were a mortal..." he says, voice calmed. "The dragon and the devil and an angel as well?"
[20:30] <Alicia> "I am indeed mortal," Alicia affirms, waxing slightly poetic. "Born of man and woman, and destined to die and become dust... perhaps my soul will then find its place among the heavens as belief concentrated into form, but for now am I a creature of flesh and blood and bone."
[20:35] <Kotono> "You look li-" His words cut off as he shakes his head, a daze settling in over his features. "L-lead me on..."
[20:39] <Alicia> "As I said, the way ahead is hard and you may have doubts or regrets - simply trust that in the end it will be worth it," Alicia smiles briefly at the end of her serious warning, letting go of his hand and going to open the cell door. "Come, first we will inform the Commander that you are now under my care. Then we have work to do."
[20:46] <Kotono> "Let's go. I don't bite," Antenora smiles gently to him, with a warming as she walks by his side. Thus the three head out. The giant, golden man with red eyes gets looks from passing garrison soldiers, though most simply salute to Alicia and scurry out of the way. Commander Oberuth is found overseeing training,  dusty, sweaty and wih a gaggle of soldiers limping off.
[20:48] <Alicia> Marie floats after the group, keeping quiet for now, while Alicia ceases her radiant glowing as they leave the cell. "Sir," Alicia salutes the Commander once she has his attention. "This is Aym, warrior of Torm. He has agreed to surrender himself to my care and tutelage for the time being."
[20:52] <Kotono> OBeruth sheaths his sword and then crosses his arms, "Big fella. I heard about you. As long as you follow what Alicia says you should stay out of trouble."
[20:54] * Alicia nods and turns slightly so she can address both the Commander and her new charge. "For now I intend to visit my own temple and divine what must be done to remove the unholy taint of madness from the Planetar's weapon. Aym, you will accompany me on the holy quest I am set, so that you may see for yourself what is required of me, and will be of you in due time."
[20:56] <Kotono> "Alright." The Commander nods to that, "Report to me before you leave town, but otherwise dismissed."
[20:56] <Kotono> Aym merely looks at Oberuth with a neutral expression, eyes sliding back to Alicia and Antenora much of the time.
[20:59] <Alicia> "Yes sir," Alicia nods, before turning to her entourage. "Come along, everyone," she asks, starting to head out of the garrison.
[21:00] <Kotono> As the foursome head out, 'Are you going to be safe with him alone?' Antenora asks in the recesses of Alicia's mind. 'I'm worried that this may not stick, or that he's simply enraptured for a time.'
[21:03] <Alicia> 'I'm going to get Marie to follow us while hiding from view,' Alicia replies. 'If he does something stupid, that'll be the end of it. If he doesn't take any chances when as far as he knows he could get away with it, then he'll have proven something.'
[21:08] <Kotono> 'Just be careful.' Antenora glances back at him, 'Don't let him do anything you'll regret, alright?'
[21:12] <Alicia> 'Don't worry, I'm not stupid. He's getting some rope, it's up to him whether he hangs himself with it,' the paladin returns. "Just so I know, Aym, do you require sustenance?" she then asks aloud. "I admit I'm unsure whether you're planetouched or a full blown outsider."
[21:15] <Kotono> "I need to eat." He answers, "I am...rather hungry." He fixiates on Alicia, then after a moment, "My mother was an aasimar, my father was a tiefling."
[21:17] <Alicia> "Ah," Alicia nods, not pressing further on his parentage unless he wants to discuss it. "We'll have lunch before leaving, then," she offers as they head to her church.
[21:23] <Kotono> There's not much discussion. Antenora follows, the foursome getting home. At home, you find Aym to tear into the offered food. After he eats his plate of food rapidly, "Torm teaches that this is folly and weakness. We eat only enough, for he wishes for us to substain ourselves on our anger and to overcome our bodily limits."
[21:26] <Alicia> "That's not actually a terrible philosophy," Alicia admits. "Antenora herself is loathe to eat at all even though it's now required of her," she gestures to the erinyes.
[21:26] <Alicia> "My own viewpoint is that there's no harm in treating yourself when you can, since privation can be just around the corner - such as when one must depart from their comfortable home on a dangerous quest. So long as one doesn't cross the line into decadence, there's no real harm in it."
[21:29] <Kotono> Antenora sits opposite Alicia, "Except for the part where it's all about your rage," Antenora banters a little, smililng back to her. "But in that aspect, yes, when you have a purpose that defines you, there's little need for comforts."
[21:31] <Alicia> "Gluttony isn't good for anyone, but you should try to eat a little bit of everything just for the experience," Marie chimes in with some eladrin philosophy for her part.
[21:32] <Kotono> "Have you eaten a courre, Marie?" Antenora doesn't turn her gaze away from Alicia, though she does smirk. "Everything include some unusual choices of food."
[21:33] <Alicia> Marie just blushes. "Everything that actually counts as food, I meant..." she amends embarrassedly.
[21:33] <Kotono> Aym watches all of them, those his gaze almost always stay son Alicia. "I am done eating, when you wish to go."
[21:36] <Alicia> "Alright, wait here for a moment," Alicia rises and departs, gesturing for Marie to follow her. She returns a moment later, now sans familiar and carrying the planetar's greatsword. "Antenora, can you look after Hell Striker while I'm gone?" she asks, holding out her usual blade to the erinyes.
[21:37] <Kotono> Antenora takes it, holding it down the middle. "Good fortune, and may the Hebdomad watch over you as well as Mystra."
[21:40] <Alicia> "Thanks," Alicia smiles. "Take care of the place while we're gone," she adds warmly before turning her attention to Aym. "Now we go to find out what must be done to cleanse this weapon. A far easier process than changing a person, I might add."

[Corwin]

[13:00] <Alicia> [21:32] <Kotono> "Have you eaten a courre, Marie?" Antenora doesn't turn her gaze away from Alicia, though she does smirk. "Everything include some unusual choices of food."
[13:00] <Alicia> [21:33] <Alicia> Marie just blushes. "Everything that actually counts as food, I meant..." she amends embarrassedly.
[13:00] <Alicia> [21:33] <Kotono> Aym watches all of them, those his gaze almost always stay son Alicia. "I am done eating, when you wish to go."
[13:00] <Alicia> [21:36] <Alicia> "Alright, wait here for a moment," Alicia rises and departs, gesturing for Marie to follow her. She returns a moment later, now sans familiar and carrying the planetar's greatsword. "Antenora, can you look after Hell Striker while I'm gone?" she asks, holding out her usual blade to the erinyes.
[13:00] <Alicia> [21:37] <Kotono> Antenora takes it, holding it down the middle. "Good fortune, and may the Hebdomad watch over you as well as Mystra."
[13:00] <Alicia> [21:40] <Alicia> "Thanks," Alicia smiles. "Take care of the place while we're gone," she adds warmly before turning her attention to Aym. "Now we go to find out what must be done to cleanse this weapon. A far easier process than changing a person, I might add."
[13:02] <Kokokokokoko> Aym follows Alicia, Hell Striker left behind for the Fallen's greatsword in her hand.
[13:02] <Kokokokokoko> OOC - Gaaah.
[13:02] <Kokokokokoko> Aym follows Alicia, Hell Striker left behind for the Fallen's greatsword in her hand. As the two head to the streets, "Mystra?" he asks quietly, his gaze seemingly uninterested in anything but Alicia. "One of the inferiors to Torm?"
[13:08] * Alicia stops. "I suggest you have a care with such words, Aym," she tells him, turning to face the heavily built planetouched. "Mystra does not perform gaudy demonstrations nor is she a braggart, but in truth I know that she is second to none. None may call her inferior."
[13:13] <Kokokokokoko> Aym does not blink or turn away, though people on the same street generally give the two space or looks, or both. "Then what of the Torm you spoke of just a little while ago?"
[13:16] <Alicia> "Torm held to an admirable doctrine. One of honour, chivalry, and justice," Alicia nods briefly. "There is much to be respected in that, and it is not incompatible with Mystra's teachings. But he has never been and never will be superior to the Mother of All Magic."
[13:18] <Kokokokokoko> Aym moves to speak once, then again, though at the second he bites his tongue. He starts to walk instead.
[13:19] <Alicia> "If you have something to say then say it," Alicia suggests, keeping in step with her charge. "I am ever willing to debate theology and morality with you."
[13:21] <Kokokokokoko> "Torm is superior," He stops there and turns to Alicia, veins in his neck bulging. "What heresy is this, claiming that Mystra is stronger?"
[13:28] <Alicia> "It's quite simple. Mystra has always been among the strongest of the gods. From what I understand, Torm was the junior member of the Triad - both Ilmater and Tyr are greater in stature, from what I know," Alicia explains. "But really, a deity's power isn't as important as what they do with it. Shar rivals Mystra in power, and I hold no respect for her, after all."
[13:34] <Kokokokokoko> "I find your claim foolish...but...at least you are correct on one point. Rage used for nothing is worthless. Rage used to to destroy in the name of Torm is not."
[13:37] <Alicia> "What's ironic is that you're likely more privy to Torm's desires than I am to Mystra's," Alicia shakes her head, sighing softly as they head into her temple. "Regardless, if you at least acknowledge that focused and directed rage is better than mindless and random fury, I'll consider that a start."
[13:38] <Kokokokokoko> The Temple of Mystra bustles. Worshippers come and go, as a young man dressed in light robes talks to a small crowd. He waves his hand, colored lights playing in the air around him. Aym only glances at them once or twice, then, "Why do you not radiate like before?" he asks after a pause.
[13:42] <Alicia> "It loses its impact if maintained constantly," Alicia replies honestly, looking around for Shankar. "Either that or it attracts undue attention. Regardless, it's something I choose to use sparingly in circumstances when it can have the best effect."
[13:43] <Kokokokokoko> Shankar is found in the libraries, reading deeply of an old leather bound tome. On Alicia's arrival, "Blessings of the Weave," he says earnestly, "Welcome, champion. What brings you to the home of Mystra today?"
[13:45] <Alicia> "Hello, Shankar," Alicia smiles, holding up her greatsword, "I have another unholy weapon that needs to be repurposed towards the light."
[13:46] <Kokokokokoko> "Turning a tool of darkness into a tool of light using the Weave pleases Mystra. Come," Putting the book aside and glancing at Aym with a raised eyebrow, "Have you brought another to see the wonders of Mystra's will?"
[13:48] <Alicia> "Aym is a servant of Torm," Alicia explains, her tone making it very clear that this isn't exactly a good thing. "I intend for him to come with me on this quest to better appreciate what's involved in serving the cause of justice."
[13:51] <Kokokokokoko> Shankar bows his head, "Then so be it, by Mystra's will." Aym doesn't comment to this, as Shankar leads you to the altar. He takes the greatsword and puts it there, going into prayer for a time. For perhaps an hour he is in trance, before rising to his feet. He looks to Alicia, "Pray to Mystra, for I feel she will give you revelation this day."
[13:54] * Alicia does her best to conceal her surprise, and the sense of giddy anticipation that follows from those words. "I understand," she nods with a solid show of composure, settling herself down by kneeling before the altar with head bowed. Focusing her mind towards her deity, she begins to silently pray to the Lady of Mysteries...
[13:57] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d20+1
[13:57] * Hatbot --> "Kokokokokoko rolls 1d20+1 and gets 21."12 [1d20=20]
[13:58] <Kokokokokoko> The noise of the temple becomes dimmer and dimmer as Alicia prays. The world drowns out to the soft, steady beating of her own heart. In her mind's eye, she sees the FAllen once more. His words echo in the vaults of Alicia's soul, "Never again will I bow to creatures of dust!" The rage on his face is recalled as he was stricken down. Mists. Mists are coming. Alicia will/shall/has already walked down the crystalline steps, through the mist
[13:58] <Kokokokokoko> Alicia will/shall/has already walked down the crystalline steps, through the mists. Through the mists, into an incorpreal realm, a silver sea of nothingness. (More)
[14:01] <Kokokokokoko> Deep within this silver sea Alicia flies, proceeding on. Somewhere in it, a Beast lies. Somewhere an incarnation of hatred and rage is about to awaken. It must be stopped. Sanctify this sword on the blood of the creature that would rend any it sees apart!
[14:01] <Kokokokokoko> (More)
[14:04] <Kokokokokoko> The voice speaks in Alicia's mind for the barest moment, a whisper telling her of what must be done. Stop this beast, triumph over it's unreasoning hatred. Prove that you are superior to mindless fury while bearing the curse of the blade and the reduced insight it suffers on you. The voice bids Alicia to stand and thus she does. It is quiet in the temple now, dark. Torches and lanterns are lit, often flickering with purple and violet tint
[14:04] <Kokokokokoko> Torches and lanterns are lit, often flickering with purple and violet tinted flames. Alicia's body aches a bit, stiff. Shankar awaits behind the altar, waiting.
[14:07] <Alicia> "Mmm..." Alicia rolls her neck, feeling and hearing the resulting crick. "Uatu..." she whispers distantly before focusing on the here and now. "How long was I...?" she lets the question trail off leadingly, her intent clear.
[14:08] <Kokokokokoko> "About nine hours, asleep and yet awake." He reacehs out, clasping Alicia's shoulder. Despite the stiffness, Alicia doesn't feel tired at all - rested, vitality coming as she works out the kinks. "Did you see what you wished to see?"
[14:09] <Alicia> "Yes," she nods, "I must go to Pilltain, and from there find a creature of purest rage and hatred. By this blade must it be felled," she picks up Soul's Enslavement before turning to see if Aym is still here.
[14:11] <Kokokokokoko> Aym sits a ways away, eyes on Alicia. He stands as she turns, "I am ready," he says simply. As Alicia grasps Soul's Enslavement, she feels a weight on her. A weight of muted fury, seeming to surge from the sword itself. In her mind flashes a thousand screams for battle, a million broken foes beneath her bloodied boot. 
[14:17] * Alicia shivers briefly at the pull the sword now has on her, now wanting to depart immediately despite what her usual better judgement would show. Still, she does have to report to Oberuth first... "It's late. We'll rest until dawn and then depart after I report to the Commander and requisition horses for us," she decides.
[14:18] <Kokokokokoko> "Mystra be with you," Shankar intones, af ew words murmured under his breath. Silver and violet fire arcs in the various lights around the temple proper, casting burst of light and shadow about.
[14:18] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@70.114.129.129) Quit (Hatbot)
[14:19] <Alicia> Leading Aym to her home, Alicia sets up a bedroll in the study for him to sleep in tonight and is reunited with her familiar before going to bed, who is then tasked with keeping an eye on him through the night. Which she's able to do from a different room in the house simply by using detect evil.
[14:20] * Rei-chan (Rei-chan@user-5440f0c1.wfd81a.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
[14:20] * Alicia sets mode: +v Rei-chan
[14:23] <Kokokokokoko> The night passes for Marie well enough. Aym sleeps until about dawn, so there's no problems at all. Later in the night Antenora stirs to go out and practice, but that's hardly of note. Come dawn Alicia rises...
[14:26] <Alicia> Marie makes sure to harass Antenora a bit during her practice by saying how she was convinced to become lawful herself during their earlier impassioned speeches to Aym and asking if Antenora can teach her. She still keeps half an eye on the evil aura in the house throughout and then leaves once Antenora gets sufficiently irritated.
[14:26] <Alicia> Come morning Alicia takes Aym towards the garrison so she can report her impending absence to the commander and grab a pair of fast horses.
[14:28] <Kokokokokoko> Commander Oberuth is up and with the dawn, getting the overnight report as Alicia arrives. As he listens to how a goodwoman chased off someone trying to rustle around her front door, "We'll finish this a little later," he says to the guardsman, turning to Alicia. "Coming by this early...you're leaving soon?"
[14:29] <Alicia> "That's right," Alicia nods. "I've been tasked with eliminating some manner of beast that I can only reach with Uatu's help. Since it's a bit of a trip to get there it's best to depart immediately."
[14:31] <Kokokokokoko> "Good fortune to you then." With a curt, quick look to Aym, "Safe travel then."
[14:33] <Alicia> Getting the requisite pair of horses, Alicia and Aym leave Balmuria, with Marie following perhaps half a mile behind in her incorporeal form and making a cursory effort at not being seen by any other travellers on the road. Whenever they make camp or stop at an inn, she'll catch up in order to watch over her sleeping Mistress as they agreed the previous day.
[14:35] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d100
[14:35] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=66 ]4,0{66}
[14:35] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d100
[14:35] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=60 ]4,0{60}
[14:35] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d100
[14:35] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=41 ]4,0{41}
[14:39] <Kokokokokoko> The trip is a quiet enough one, travel taking the place of conversation. It's a mix of campouts and inn visits - though Alicia finds her money is no good in most inns, reconized and treated like a queen instead.  Aym seems content enough to travel along, the rising hills of Pilltain ahead. One afternoon, Alicia and Aym ride towards the monastery where Uatu rests. As they approach it, they find a bank of mist ahead, blocking the way.
[14:39] <Kokokokokoko> As they approach it, they find a bank of mist ahead, blocking the way.
[14:43] <Alicia> And here they also find Marie waiting for them, since she can't very well stay hidden while they negotiate passage with Uatu. "What took you so long?" the eladrin chirps, doing her best to maintain a cheery outlook inspite of the creepy empathic feedback she's been getting from Alicia throughout this quest. It's better than the hunger, anyway.
[14:43] <Alicia> "We can't all fly as well as you, Marie," Alicia replies with a smile as she dismounts. "This place is watched over by Helm," she adds for Aym's benefit. "You may find the aura within the mists either unsettling or comforting - it's different for everyone, so I understand."
[14:43] <Alicia> "Seems a bit creepy to me," the eladrin mutters, glancing suspiciously at the mists ahead.
[14:44] <Kokokokokoko> The mists seem to slightly part as Alicia comes close. "The Etherial?" Aym peers ahead into the mists, sending Marie hardly a look at all, his attention on Alicia otherwise.
[14:45] <Alicia> "Something like that, yes," Alicia nods. "The being within is connected to all places through it. Come," she slowly leads her horse into the mists.
[14:48] <Kokokokokoko> Into the mists the party goes! Aym looks about as white fog surrounds the party, a soft frown on his face. Marie feels...like she was in Dweomerheart, connected. Connected to Mystra, like the distances of the Prime Material Plane matter little. For Alicia, it's like a forgotten third eye opening, a closeness filling her body and mind.
[14:50] <Alicia> Well, that takes care of the creepiness for Marie, while Alicia feels considerably more together than she has since taking up Soul's Enslavement. "I wonder where the guardians are?" she muses as they carefully advance onwards.
[14:59] <Kokokokokoko> As they advance onward, a misty gate can be seen ahead. Four men in full armor are there, keeping an unblinking vigil, open faced helmets worn with the heavy plate. "Who comes to the protected realm?" one of the men calls.
[15:01] <Alicia> "Alicia Reynes, Marielle, and Aym," Alicia answers as she comes to a stop before them. "I have been tasked to seek out Uatu once more by the Mother of all Magic."
[15:04] <Kokokokokoko> The four guards part, the gate ahead opening wide. Mist comes forth from it as it is opened, obscuring everything. "The path ahead is open. Go for what you seek, Alicia Reynes."
[15:05] <Alicia> "Can our horses be stabled here?" Alicia asks before proceeding. They certainly wouldn't be able to negotiate the razor sharp staircase ahead, anyway.
[15:07] <Kokokokokoko> "It shall be done," One of the guards says. Aym glances ahead at the misty passage, crossing his arms over his ches.t
[15:08] <Alicia> "Thank you, servants of the Watcher," Alicia nods graciously to them, handing the reins of her horse over before leading her little troupe onwards.
[15:15] <Kokokokokoko> As they three walk in, they find themselves seamlessly walking down a stair of razors, as if a blink a great dream occured. A stair of crystalline mists and fog, for dancing here and there in the mists around, you can see armored men on patrol, glimpsed.
[15:17] * Alicia is somewhat comforted by the strong presence of the guardians here. Hopefully it'll keep the likes of Esthan away. "Let me do the talking," she cautions Marie and to a lesser extent Aym, "Uatu is... different. We don't want any misunderstandings."
[15:17] <Alicia> "I've got experience talking to things with strange mindsets. I've even been told I have a strange mindset!" Marie chirps brightly in reply. "But okay, sure, this is your vision and everything."
[15:19] <Kokokokokoko> At the thought of Esthan, there is a momentary ripple in the air. To the side a brief image appears, mists framing around it. You see a blasted landscape, fireballs crashing down and around - then a bleak, black icy wasteland, black oil overtaking all with endless lethargy - then a burning lake of fire, silent screams glanced for the barest second.  Aym glances about, "As you wish..." he murmurs distractedly.
[15:21] * Alicia frowns slightly at the glimpse of baator, knowing that one day she'll probably return there. But not today, even though she's likely going somewhere that could be just as bad, wherever this creature of rage and hate stirs.
[15:26] <Kokokokokoko> Each step takes you deeper into the mists, closer away from what you may have known before. Alicia feels a rapture pass over her, serenity calming her nerves. At last the stairs end, a platform in the mists. Beyond it, outside of it, surrounded by a thousand walls and thorns of transparent crystal, cloaked in light, Uatu sits. Eight men surround it, each with unyielding gazes as they stand at full posture, watching all that approach, stna
[15:27] <Kokokokokoko> each with unyielding gazes as they stand at full posture, watching all that approach, standing in the mists as if it were solid. Each wears armor engraved with the eye of Helm, each has the mist cling to them like a second skin.
[15:28] * Alicia approaches, not disturbing the guards if they don't disturb her. "Uatu," she speaks up. "I am sorry to disturb you once more, but I come on the errand of a goddess. Will you help me this day?"
[15:30] <Kokokokokoko> Each guard faces a directional point; one faces Alicia and company directly because of this. "Uatu shall open the way for you, for you are blessed and honored by us," he speaks then, his eyes sweeping the endless, misty horizons. "Champion of Mystra, step forward and proceed."
[15:32] * Alicia smiles at the guard. "Thank you," she tells him, advancing towards the crystal with Marie fluttering just behind her.
[15:33] <Kokokokokoko> Aym follows, a frown bored onto his face. As the trio advances, all is lost in mist! Thus in the mist they walk, cloaked! It is not long until it parts this time, showing them what is ahead - no, what is around them now. An endless silver sea of nothing as far as the eye can see and farther...OOC - Go ahead and make an K:P check here, it's relevant.
[15:34] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16
[15:34] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+16 --> 6,0[ 1d20=1 ]4,0{17}
[15:34] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 for Marie
[15:34] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0for Marie --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{30}
[15:38] <Alicia> "We're on the astral plane," Marie announces for the benefit of everyone else, sensing Alicia's confusion. "Time doesn't flow here, but it will catch up to you when we leave, so you'd still better eat and drink even if you don't feel hungry. It's really easy to cast spells, though, and you can fly just by thinking where you want to go."
[15:38] <Alicia> "It's so... empty," Alicia looks around in all directions, looking for any sort of landmark.
[15:40] <Kokokokokoko> Alicia can see none at all. All about is simple emptiness. Aym rumbles from deep in his chest, "I've been here once before," he says, starting to move, moving without walking or seeming to exert anye ffort at all. "Think to move."
[15:42] <Alicia> "Antenora said she's been here once as well, but I never asked her much about it," Alicia admits, experimentally trying to propel herself straight onwards in the direction she was already facing upon arriving here, since it's as good as any.
[15:45] <Kokokokokoko> It's simple enough, Alicia finding herself jetting along at quite a good clip! Aym follows, a little slower than her.
[15:47] * Alicia slows down to match Aym's pace. "So if you've been here before, what do you know about the place?" she asks the berserker. Marie seems to have little trouble zipping along at the same speed as everyone else.
[15:49] <Kokokokokoko> "It's mostly empty, but danger canc ome on you at a moment's notice. We were nearly swept into a psychic storm that may have cast us about to any corner of the cosmos," The answer is short, though Aym's voice strains at the end. "We overcame it."
[15:51] <Alicia> "I know the Githyanki live here as well... they have a bad reputation, but can be reasoned with," Alicia muses as they zip along through the astral.
[15:51] <Alicia> "You want to watch out for coloured pools - they're portals that can take you anywhere. Great if you wind up in Elysium, not so great if it takes you to the Negative Energy Plane," Marie notes helpfully.
[15:54] <Kokokokokoko> roll 2d6
[15:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 2d6 --> 6,0[ 2d6=10 ]4,0{10}
[15:54] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d100
[15:54] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=78 ]4,0{78}
[15:55] <Kokokokokoko> Alicia finds that any real sense of time is meaningless here. She isn't sure how long they've been going until they see the first thing of note on the horizon.  Great gray clouds drift ahead, with sparkles of silver and violet coursing through them like a perverse electricity.  It's a small bank of them, seemingly stationary.
[15:56] <Alicia> OOC: any knowledge to identify it?
[15:56] <Kokokokokoko> OOC: K P.
[15:57] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 A
[15:57] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0A --> 6,0[ 1d20=17 ]4,0{33}
[15:57] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 M
[15:57] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0M --> 6,0[ 1d20=12 ]4,0{28}
[15:58] <Alicia> "Pretty," Marie opines.
[15:58] <Alicia> "I think it's harmless. Antenora mentioned something like this," Alicia adds as they press on.
[16:00] <Kokokokokoko> Aym nods as he follows, "It reminds me of the colors the Temple of Mystra liked in it's flames."
[16:01] <Alicia> "Violet is often used in Mystra's symbols, and silver fire is one of her most potent symbols," Alicia informs him helpfully. "Since this cloud is pure arcane energy, I suppose it gives a clue of why those colours were chosen."
[16:03] <Kokokokokoko> "It makes sense," Aym admits, not pressing the conversation as the party progesses past the clouds. They crackle and perhaps ever so slowly drift as...
[16:03] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d100
[16:03] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=23 ]4,0{23}
[16:03] <Kokokokokoko> A period of time passes without incident, only afew far off clouds and tiny bits of soil like debris passed, then...
[16:03] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d100
[16:03] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=62 ]4,0{62}
[16:03] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d100
[16:03] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=53 ]4,0{53}
[16:04] <Kokokokokoko> roll 1d100
[16:04] <Rei-chan> 6,0Kokokokokoko rolled :6,0 1d100 --> 6,0[ 1d100=14 ]4,0{14}
[16:06] <Kokokokokoko> A long while has passed. Enough to wear it feels sort of perhaps right to eat and drink like Marie suggested. This is a brief pause, then the travel resumes. Ahead, the sky begins to glow faintly - several, rainbow like pools dance in the sky, whirlng and twisting ahead and just slightly off course.
[16:08] <Alicia> "Are those the coloured pools?" Alicia asks, glancing towards them but not intending to actually go through any. Her vision made clear that the foe she must fight does reside within the astral, not elsewhere.
[16:08] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 for Marie (planes)
[16:08] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0for Marie (planes) --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{32}
[16:10] <Kokokokokoko> OOC - Make a spot check, Alicia?
[16:10] <Alicia> roll 1d20+6
[16:10] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+6 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{20}
[16:12] <Alicia> "That's them," the eladrin nods, "That black one goes to Limbo and the fiery one goes to Acheron. Don't know about the rest... Want to go visit Limbo, though?" she concludes hopefully.
[16:15] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 planes do I know what a slaad is
[16:15] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0planes do I know what a slaad is --> 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{20}
[16:17] <Alicia> "We don't have time for that," Alicia chastises her familiar, peering at the cluster as they pass. "Looks like there's some creatures by the Limbo one. I don't think they're what I'm looking for, though."

[Corwin]

[18:23] <Alicia> [16:08] <Alicia> "Are those the coloured pools?" Alicia asks, glancing towards them but not intending to actually go through any. Her vision made clear that the foe she must fight does reside within the astral, not elsewhere.
[18:23] <Alicia> [16:08] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 for Marie (planes)
[18:23] <Alicia> [16:08] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0for Marie (planes) --> 6,0[ 1d20=16 ]4,0{32}
[18:23] <Alicia> [16:10] <Kokokokokoko> OOC - Make a spot check, Alicia?
[18:23] <Alicia> [16:10] <Alicia> roll 1d20+6
[18:23] <Alicia> [16:10] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+6 --> 6,0[ 1d20=14 ]4,0{20}
[18:23] <Alicia> [16:12] <Alicia> "That's them," the eladrin nods, "That black one goes to Limbo and the fiery one goes to Acheron. Don't know about the rest... Want to go visit Limbo, though?" she concludes hopefully.
[18:23] <Alicia> [16:15] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 planes do I know what a slaad is
[18:23] <Alicia> [16:15] <Rei-chan> 6,0Alicia rolled :6,0 1d20+16 1,0planes do I know what a slaad is --> 6,0[ 1d20=4 ]4,0{20}
[18:23] <Alicia> [16:17] <Alicia> "We don't have time for that," Alicia chastises her familiar, peering at the cluster as they pass. "Looks like there's some creatures by the Limbo one. I don't think they're what I'm looking for, though."
[18:27] <Kotono> "Slaad," Aym eyes them, "Creatures of Limbo and chaos. They may be aggressive or they may be harmless, depending on the tides of their mood."
[18:28] -Kotono- 02Server 02Notice: This server is using an alternate send method, please make sure your DCC Server is active and set to port 69. /dccserver +sc on 69.
[18:29] <Alicia> "Uh, yeah..." Marie suddenly looks nervous. "They're actually quite friendly to eladrin, but only because most eladrin can give them a bloody nose. Um... Coure don't fall into that category, so they actually have a bad habit of, well... eating us."
[18:29] <Alicia> "Oh, Marie..." Alicia gives her familiar a sad look. "How many food chains are you at the bottom of?"
[18:30] <Kotono> "The devil said the same thing, didn't it?" Aym asks as the party glides past the pools. If the Slaad see you, they don't seem to be reacting.
[18:31] <Alicia> "It'd probably be quicker to list the ones we're not in," Marie admits sadly. "That's why we like to make friends with more powerful celestials. Or paladins, like you!" she alights on Alicia's head.
[18:31] <Alicia> "Well, they don't seem interested in us, and I'm not interested in them. Lets keep going," Alicia decides, giving Marie a reassuring pat.
[18:32] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[18:32] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 60."12 [1d100=60]
[18:32] <Kotono> More 'time' passes. You pass by a few long banks of tube like clouds, red and white and green and orange and blue and silver at different times and angles. Alicia notices her Greater magic weapon spell has expired.
[18:34] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 planes do those clouds mean anything to Alicia
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 planes do those clouds mean anything to Alicia and gets 34."12 [1d20=18]
[18:34] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 planes do those clouds mean anything to Marie
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 planes do those clouds mean anything to Marie and gets 19."12 [1d20=3]
[18:36] * Alicia pauses to recast the spell on her sword, noting how swiftly the magic flows through her. "When this spell runs out we'll have been here for about a day," she informs the other two as they continue onwards. "Since my internal clock isn't working at all, it's a good enough way to tell time here."
[18:37] <Kotono> Aym merely nods to this, the party continuing deeper in! As more 'time' passes...
[18:37] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[18:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 47."12 [1d100=47]
[18:37] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[18:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 4."12 [1d100=4]
[18:37] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[18:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 97."12 [1d100=97]
[18:38] <Kotono> roll 1d100 special now
[18:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special now and gets 35."12 [1d100=35]
[18:38] <Kotono> roll 1d100 special now 2, required another d100. Scary.
[18:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special now 2, required another d100. Scary. and gets 55."12 [1d100=55]
[18:41] <Kotono> It's Marie that spots it first, though not by much. A little to the 'west' you begin to glimpse something.  It's quite big, visible even from here. It's bulk is mammoth, easy to see. A dragon sits in the Astral Plane, it's scales like burnished brass.  You can see hints of something behind and under it's mammoth body, though your angle isn't right to really get al ook.
[18:43] <Alicia> "Hey, look, a brass dragon!" Marie points out the wyrm for the other two. "I think they're supposed to be good, but really who can tell these days?"
[18:45] <Alicia> Since it's only a little bit off their path Alicia doesn't terribly mind investigating. Though she does briefly murmur a spell that gives Marie and herself a more commanding presence, and allows her holy radiance to manifest as a golden cloud amidst the silvery backdrop. "Lets say hello," she suggests, starting to fly closer at a slow enough pace to seem nonthreatening.
[18:46] <Kotono> Aym hangs back. At about 100 feet away, the dragon roars! In it's roar comes these words! "Oh, hello there! If you don't have the sign, don't come any closer! This is a guarded gate and my duty is to prevent anyone without the sign from coming in.  You don't look like bad sorts, so I really don't want to have to fight you."
[18:48] <Alicia> "Oh, that's fine," Alicia stops agreeably. "No, we don't have any sign, at least that I'm aware of. Since it sounds like you've been here a while though, do you know much about this area?"
[18:51] <Kotono> "A little bit," he calls back, "I don't get around much, since the purpose of my being here is to guard this. Going out and looking around is really counter productive to that, which is a shame, since I never get to talk to anyone; the Gith come around once in a great while but it's either I have to fry them or they're not in the mood to talk since they're passing by, this is sooo boring but that's fine, since I can't let anyone walk into Arcad
[18:51] <Kotono> this is sooo boring but that's fine, since I can't let anyone walk into Arcadia without the sign and that's really why I'm here, did I mention that, since I really don't want to have to fry you. I mean, you're a courre and courres are great, and you look all shiny and noble, and the golden skin there looks like an aasimar, but..."
[18:53] <Alicia> "Thanks!" Marie beams in reply, glad that at least one dragon doesn't want to eat her.
[18:53] <Alicia> "What is the sign, anyway?" Alicia asks curiously. "I'm busy right now but just in case I ever need to go to Arcadia, you know. How long have you been here, anyway?" she goes on, fascinated by such a talkative and friendly dragon. They're either laconic and intimidating or out and out murderous in her sad experience.
[19:00] <Kotono> "Oh, it's something you give me so I can let you by. It's so that not anyone can go barging in here. I'm afraid I can't tell you more than that, rules are rules. I can point you towards another portal to Arcadia if you really need to get there, this one just needs to be protected. Oh say, how's your homeland, courre? I haven't gotten to go there in a long while? Do you know Estarim, a firre of festivals and celebration? How about Sanarel? But a
[19:00] <Kotono> How about Sanarel? But anyway, I've been here...oh, a hundred years? You see, part of this is because my master said I needed to learn to think and not talk all the time, but I'm not sure, since I think plenty, but now I'm just talking more when I get the chance, since it's so rare to get good talkers here and Ic an't really invite anyone, since that ruins the point of protecting this place, which is a shame since some golems or outsiders could
[19:01] <Kotono> which is a shame since some golems or outsiders could do it well enough, but nooooo, master said I had to learn, pfft to that. I can be talkative and thoughtful at once, don't you think?"
[19:03] <Kotono> Aym eyes the dragon, and then lowering his voice marginally, "It's mouth is beyond it's control."
[19:05] <Alicia> "I'm actually from Elysium," Marie admits. "I got sent to the Prime to look after her but now here I am back in the planes - I feel for you, though, since lots of people said I needed to learn pointless things by doing it - people and outsiders and dragons should all be free to follow their own path, that's what I say!"
[19:05] <Alicia> "All the better, for it might tell us something interesting. Too many of its race are close-lipped and insular," Alicia replies to her newest protege before coughing over the top of Marie's tirade. "Anyway, my name's Alicia Reynes. This is Marie and Aym. What's your name, guardian of Arcadia?"
[19:08] <Kotono> "Nexumbra, pleased to meet you Alicia! So what are you doing in the Astral Plane if your'e not going to Arcadia? You aren't up to dealing with those nasty Gith, aren you, since they're dangerous and that damned Queen of theris is a menance if you get on her wrong side or if you stumble on them at the wrong time. Well, as long as you're not going to a lower plane I suppose it's nothing too dangerous at least, since I was in the Abyss this one ti
[19:08] <Kotono> since I was in the Abyss this one time and I never want to go back, especially since I made the mistake of eating a bar-lgura when I was hungry and THAT was a mistake. I was so horribly sick that those vrocks nearly got me, but I pulled it together by the end!"
[19:09] <Kotono> "Oh courre, you make so much sense! Someone made your head right and full of good knowledge!"
[19:12] <Alicia> Marie beams at having found a kindred spirit.
[19:12] <Alicia> "I've never been to the Abyss," Alicia admits, "But I've been to Baator. Horrible place, though fortunately I avoided the local cuisine. I don't actually plan on dealing with the Gith while I'm here - I've actually been tasked with hunting for a Beast - an incarnation of rage and hatred that slumbers within the astral and is close to awakening. I don't suppose that description means anything to you? It's all I have to go on."
[19:12] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20
[19:12] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 and gets 26."12 [1d20=6]
[19:16] <Kotono> "Beast, beast, beast...mmmm. Well, I know that some horrible entities are called a Beast. I think an old ruler of the Sixth Layer of Hell and is a complete brute who I heard is still kicking...or was it for Sammael, the venom...no, he's the venom one. Or was it Grazz...mmm. Well, there's a lot called beasts related to hatred and rage. Oh wait! I remember now!" His eyes open wide, visible even from here, "A long while ago, I saw an angel heading
[19:18] <Kotono> "A long while ago, I saw an angel heading in the direction you were going. HE stopped on the way back to use the gate I guard and he mentioned an imprisoned spirit in passing. Something about a ward of time or some such. I was wondering why I was thinking evil spirit so strongly there. That was why, silly me! Something about a time ward...or was it a timed ward, or an expiring time ward? Hmph. I was talking about something when he said that and
[19:18] <Kotono> or an expiring time ward? Hmph. I was talking about something when he said that and I think I missed the details. It was only an astra deva, at least, so it wasn't anything too out of control Iw ould imagine, since you'd think they'd send a solar or twenty if it was something like a former Lord of the Nine or a Demon Lord."
[19:20] <Alicia> "Hmm..." Alicia digests that before nodding to herself. It sounds like a solid enough clue. "That could be it, yes. So just straight on the path I was already headed? A shame you never heard the details - perhaps that sort of thing is what your master was concerned about - but you've still been helpful so I won't hold it against you, Nexumbra," she favours the brass wyrm with an appreciative smile.
[19:22] <Kotono> "Oh, you're welcome! Eladrin, what was your name?" Nexumbra asks, "Since whenever I get out of here I might go look you up and we can spend a few years having some fun! You're even kind of cute...tell me, do you like dragons? Half dragons with celestial blood make superb heroic champions, you know, and one with eladrin blood would have a good sense of humor while opposing all that's wrong in creation! IT would be so much better than some stuffy
[19:22] <Kotono> IT would be so much better than some stuffy angel who's more worried about this ro that, or an archon whow would rather spend a few lifetimes reading a law book!"
[19:23] <Kotono> "..." Aym shakes his head, "...the thing must be horribly lonely, or perhaps mad."
[19:25] <Alicia> Marie blushes and giggles. "You're so bold! My name's Marielle and you can look me up any time! When do you think you'll be getting out of here?"
[19:25] <Alicia> "It has been here for a hundred years," Alicia notes with some measure of sympathy.
[19:25] <Alicia> *He
[19:26] <Kotono> "Oh, whenever my master thinks I need to move on. Hopefully soon, within a century!" Chirping that out, "Marielle, I'll see you then!"
[19:28] <Alicia> "A century? By then I'll probably be something besides a Coure, but that'd probably be for the best if we were to have a relationship," Marie nods to herself. "You should try your best to listen to everyone that comes by without talking over them so that you can leave sooner!"
[19:28] * Alicia just shakes her head at her familiar's shameless flirting. "Anyway, just before we go, Nexumbra - I have a friend who's somewhat involved with red dragons. I don't suppose you know about some sort of planar valley where they congregate?" she asks on Seira's behalf.
[19:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20
[19:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 and gets 30."12 [1d20=10]
[19:30] <Kotono> "Red dragons, red dragons...ew, they're so evil." Making a giant, draconic EW face, "Try Baator's more fiery layers or the plane of fire? They like it hot. There's an old fallen angel that hangs out in the plane of fire, though I wouldn't mess with him unless you want to shuffle off this existance. There's also Kossuth, and all the elementals...one of them should know something if it's on the plane of fire. If it's in the Nine Hells, well, you
[19:30] <Kotono> If it's in the Nine Hells, well, you know how that goes. Evil outsiders this, pain that, enslavement or destructino or lies or what have you."
[19:33] * Alicia nods understandingly. "Yes, well, it's not for me anyway. Still, you've been very helpful, Nexumbra - good luck on your guard duty!" she waves before starting to move off on their original heading.
[19:33] <Alicia> "If I'm not on the Prime I'll probably be in Dweomerheart!" Marie calls herself as she follows Alicia.
[19:33] <Kotono> "Oh, you follow Mystra? I wondered why you said you were from Elysium! I'd have spent awhile looking for you elseware!" Nexumbra calls as the party starts to fly away. "Stop back on your way back so we can chat!"
[19:35] <Alicia> "I will if we're able!" Alicia calls before they leave before eyeing her familiar. "You weren't serious about all that, were you Marie?" she asks uncertainly.
[19:35] <Alicia> "Mmmmaybe," the eladrin replies with a smug little smile. "You're not the only one that can turn heads, you know."
[19:36] <Kotono> "The dimensions of it are painful to think of." Aym notes with a little smile, "That would not be love, tha twould be painful torture. I approve, perhaps that torture would inspire fury into yo8ur heart."
[19:38] <Alicia> "I'm sure he can shapeshift," Marie waves it off blithely. "And so can I, with Alicia's help. Besides, in a hundred years I'll probably be something a lot bigger. Maybe I'll even be a Planetar?"
[19:38] <Kotono> As Aym shakes his head at that, the party continues onward!
[19:38] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[19:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 45."12 [1d100=45]
[19:38] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[19:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 39."12 [1d100=39]
[19:38] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[19:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 1."12 [1d100=1]
[19:38] <Alicia> "Love takes many strange forms..." is all Alicia says, looking faintly disturbed.
[19:38] <Kotono> roll 1d100 special
[19:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special and gets 32."12 [1d100=32]
[19:39] <Kotono> roll 1d100 special calling a reroll
[19:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special calling a reroll and gets 91."12 [1d100=91]
[19:40] <Kotono> OOC - Marie, make a will save?
[19:41] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14 +2 vs evil
[19:41] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+14 +2 vs evil and gets 30."12 [1d20=16]
[19:43] <Kotono> Thus the travel continues on. Alicia notices that greater magical eapon has expired again.
[19:45] * Alicia pauses briefly, conjuring both rations and water from her survival pouch and sharing them with Aym before she recasts the spell and continues onwards. "It is rather monotonous," she notes. "I suppose it's for the best that we don't get unduly sidetracked, though."
[19:45] <Kotono> Aym nods once asthe party continues into the monotous plane!
[19:45] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[19:45] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 100."12 [1d100=100]
[19:46] <Kotono> roll 1d100 oh shit
[19:46] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 oh shit and gets 27."12 [1d100=27]
[19:46] <Kotono> OOC - Marie, make another will save?
[19:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14 +2 vs evil
[19:46] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+14 +2 vs evil and gets 27."12 [1d20=13]
[19:47] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
[19:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 and gets 17."12 [1d20=1]
[19:47] <Kotono> OOC - What's your SR, Marie?
[19:47] <Alicia> OOC: SR? What's that?
[19:47] <Kotono> OOC: Oh, okay!
[19:50] <Kotono> It happens abruptly! One moment the empty plains of silver stretch out and the next they are all around Alicia! The one in front is 15 feet ahead of her, a horrible gelugon with it's spear extended out to her! Two other horrible, cruel, barbed hamatula flank her 15 feet away on the other side, with Aym being flanked on the right as well! From the gelugon's mouth, "In the name of Hell, your soul is forfeit! You shall be enslaved and tormented fo
[19:51] <Kotono> "In the name of Hell, your soul is forfeit! You shall be enslaved and tormented for eternity!" With that, they are coming at you in the silvery void! OOC - Initiative.
[19:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5 A
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 A and gets 25."12 [1d20=20]
[19:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7 M
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 M and gets 24."12 [1d20=17]
[19:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 gelugon
[19:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 gelugon and gets 12."12 [1d20=7]
[19:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 barbed 1
[19:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6 barbed 2
[19:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 barbed 1 and gets 26."12 [1d20=20]
[19:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 barbed 2 and gets 26."12 [1d20=20]
[19:54] <Kotono> OOC - Strike, you're lucky today.
[19:54] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[19:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 78."12 [1d100=78]
[19:54] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[19:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 27."12 [1d100=27]
[19:55] <Kotono> More travel passes. For a while, winds batter your face as clouds of black roil below, but this passes as well. More time passes by...
[19:55] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[19:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 59."12 [1d100=59]
[19:55] <Kotono> Alicia notices the enchantment on her sword has expired once more.
[19:57] <Alicia> "Been here one and a half days," Alicia informs the others, pausing for a quick lunch break before she casts the spell on her blade once more and continues on.
[19:58] <Kotono> "AS much as time matters here. Only fury and patience matter here." Aym observes.
[19:59] <Alicia> "Perhaps, but as long as we remain here the world passes us by," Alicia notes. "I'd say fury doesn't matter that much when there's nothing but empty void to rage against, though."
[20:00] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[20:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 55."12 [1d100=55]
[20:00] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[20:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 90."12 [1d100=90]
[20:00] <Kotono> roll 1d100 special
[20:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special and gets 40."12 [1d100=40]
[20:00] <Kotono> roll 1d100 special 2.0 return of the special
[20:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special 2.0 return of the special and gets 34."12 [1d100=34]
[20:01] <Kotono> roll 1d100 special 2.0 return of the special
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special 2.0 return of the special and gets 60."12 [1d100=60]
[20:01] <Kotono> roll 1d8
[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8 and gets 5."12 [1d8=5]
[20:04] <Kotono> Thus the travel continues onward even more.  Marie happens to spot it, coming at an angle from the west-southwest and well below you, glimpsed only by dumb luck. It makes no move to hide or shield itself, it's golden body radiating light. Even from here, Marie can sense and feel the waves of calming good and justice that flow from the angelic creature before her. IT is nearly a dozen feet tall, wearing armor carved of pure platinum.  A greatswo
[20:04] <Kotono> IT is nearly a dozen feet tall, wearing armor carved of pure platinum.  A greatsword is on it's back, a bow in it's hands as it continues to fly.
[20:05] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 M what is it?
[20:05] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 M what is it? and gets 22."12 [1d20=6]
[20:05] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 A what is it?
[20:05] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 A what is it? and gets 24."12 [1d20=8]
[20:05] <Alicia> "Look! Look!" Marie grabs Alicia's arm and points insistently. "It's a Solar! Lets say hello!"
[20:07] <Alicia> "Goodness!" Alicia looks wide-eyed at the greatest of angels passing her by. "Best behaviour," she reminds Aym before descending a bit towards the Solar, her radiant aura still present as she felt no real need to relinquish it after meeting the dragon. It almost feels a bit lacking in comparison, though. "Hail!" she calls over.

[Corwin]

[19:12] <Alicia> [20:04] <Kotono> Thus the travel continues onward even more.  Marie happens to spot it, coming at an angle from the west-southwest and well below you, glimpsed only by dumb luck. It makes no move to hide or shield itself, it's golden body radiating light. Even from here, Marie can sense and feel the waves of calming good and justice that flow from the angelic creature before her. IT is nearly a dozen feet tall, wearing armor carved of pure platinum.  A greatswo
[19:12] <Alicia> [20:04] <Kotono> IT is nearly a dozen feet tall, wearing armor carved of pure platinum.  A greatsword is on it's back, a bow in it's hands as it continues to fly.
[19:12] <Alicia> [20:05] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 M what is it?
[19:12] <Alicia> [20:05] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 M what is it? and gets 22."12 [1d20=6]
[19:12] <Alicia> [20:05] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 A what is it?
[19:12] <Alicia> [20:05] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 A what is it? and gets 24."12 [1d20=8]
[19:12] <Alicia> [20:05] <Alicia> "Look! Look!" Marie grabs Alicia's arm and points insistently. "It's a Solar! Lets say hello!"
[19:12] <Alicia> [20:07] <Alicia> "Goodness!" Alicia looks wide-eyed at the greatest of angels passing her by. "Best behaviour," she reminds Aym before descending a bit towards the Solar, her radiant aura still present as she felt no real need to relinquish it after meeting the dragon. It almost feels a bit lacking in comparison, though. "Hail!" she calls over.
[19:17] <Kobrb> The divine creature stops, it's long white wings flapping even though perhaps it is not needed. It was moving like a fast shot through the silver void, it's attentions onto Alicia now. Even from hundreds of feet away, Alicia can feel it's presence on her. A presence of hope, love and resolution, washing over her like a warm wave. In a voice that overshadows the Astral with it's presence, "Hail, noble hearted one." It approaches like a meteorite
[19:17] <Kobrb> "Hail, noble hearted one." It approaches like a meteorite crashing to the earth, so fast and so rapid that Alicia can barely register it.
[19:22] <Alicia> "My name is Alicia Reynes," Alicia introduces herself, suddenly feeling a bit foolish for some reason. It's all very well to be friendly, but she's on a mission and a being such as this certainly has his own pressing errands. "We don't mean to disturb you," she apologises, "But the astral is a desolate place, so we thought we should at least say hello to a passing traveller."
[19:22] <Alicia> "Hi!" Marie seconds from Alicia's shoulder. "I'm Marielle!"
[19:26] <Kobrb> The solar's gaze travels from woman to woman, "I understand," he says, his word stirring, moving, overwhelming. "I am on a journey to lead an assault on a demonic fortress the Abyss has established within the Astral Plane. Demons infest it like vermin, as well as those who would bow to them."
[19:27] <Kobrb> At those words his gaze turns to Aym, severe. "...You poor soul," he says to him, "How twisted."
[19:28] * Alicia nods gravely. "I see. My own quest takes me to a creature of rage that has been kept in slumber by wards that are now weakening. Ah," she pauses at the scrutiny directed towards Aym, "This is Aym, servant of Torm. He has agreed to follow me that I might provide direction and show him how his fury might be better channelled," she explains.
[19:32] <Kobrb> "Noble goals. I will pray that you succeed on them." His attention turns back to Alicia, eyes like pools of radiant, burning fire. "When your task against this creature of rage is done, we would be honored if you would come to join the battle against the Abyss."
[19:33] * Alicia smiles. "I was just about to suggest the same," she replies. "How might we find you?"
[19:37] <Kobrb> "TRavel in the Astral Plane is about wanting to go somewhere. In this case...amid an endless bank of black clouds sits a six tiered castle and grounds. It will be surrounded by the forces of light as we lay seige to those inside. Think of this place and travel to it, you will arrive in due time."
[19:39] <Alicia> "I see..." Alicia nods, committing the description to memory. "Then once I have felled my quarry, we will make haste for this fortress to join your assault."
[19:41] <Kobrb> "Excellent. Until then, I must hurry so that our forces can be lead effectively." With a nod, "Light with you for your coming battle."
[19:44] <Alicia> "And to you," Alicia gives the celestial a smile as she begins willing herself to resume her journey, focusing all the more on her goal so that it can be done with and she can then assist the battle against the demons. "A pity Antenora won't be around for this," Marie observes as she follows along.
[19:44] <Alicia> "Hell Striker, too," Alicia agrees, briefly reaching around to the greatsword on her back. "This blade is a potent one, but it lacks the elegance I prefer."
[19:45] <Kobrb> Aym is silent at that, continuing the journey without immediate comment. After a few minutes of this, "Elegance?" he asks, attention focused on Alicia's radiant face.
[19:52] <Alicia> "Yes," Alicia nods, smiling warmly a bit as she thinks of her youth spent training with such an esoteric blade. "A greatsword is a fine weapon - solid and dependable, able to smash through most defences with ease. Anyone with a modicum of skill can use it and use it well. But the two-bladed sword... that's a Master's weapon."
[19:52] <Alicia> "It takes rare skill to use it with anything even approaching finesse - for the beginner it simply does more harm than good - and even further dedication is required to bring out its full potential. But as you saw when I attacked that Planetar, in the right hands it has no equal."
[19:53] <Kobrb> Aym merely nods to that. "I..see. Rage makes no distinction of hurting yourself, nor any care of it. The greatsword is Torm's preferred weapon."
[19:56] <Alicia> "When your enemies are already doing their best to hurt you, only a fool would do their job for them," Alicia declares sagely. "Regardless, it's a rare weapon for that reason - quite simply the vast majority of warriors will do far better with a longsword and shield or a greatsword. To say nothing of the advantages offered by a good longspear or glaive, as Antenora demonstrates. But the swordstaff rewards perseverance."
[19:57] <Kobrb> "I see," Aym says again before he goes silent, thoughtful after listening. "I will think ont hat."
[19:59] <Alicia> "Thinking is always good," Alicia smiles. "Even if you do gravitate towards one particular weapon as best suited for your style, it's always good to have an understanding of others - not only might you need to use them sometime, but it helps to know the advantages and limitations of whatever your enemy is using against you."
[20:03] <Kobrb> Aym listens and nods again, but doesn't reply. In this mood the trip onward continues...
[20:03] <Kobrb> roll 1d100
[20:03] * Hatbot --> "Kobrb rolls 1d100 and gets 83."12 [1d100=83]
[20:03] <Kobrb> After more time has passed, Alicia at last sees something! Amid a haze of whispy green clouds that crackle and fade away, there is land! A small chunk of it, perhpas one hundred feet across. Resting on this little island of sorts is a small, stone carven shrine.
[20:04] <Alicia> "Hmm. This looks promising," Alicia muses, flying on towards the island.
[20:05] <Alicia> Marie has detect magic and detect evil on as she goes along with Alicia.
[20:06] <Kobrb> The shrine is perhaps twenty feet wide. There is a solid slab of stone that serves as a front door of sorts, with several glittering, golden runes escribed into the surface.
[20:07] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7 spellcraft
[20:07] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 spellcraft and gets 21."12 [1d20=14]
[20:09] * Alicia lands before the shrine as Marie scans the area before reporting, "Abjuration aura on the shrine, probably the ward itself, while there's really strong evil from within," the delicate little fairy tells her lovely mistress.
[20:09] <Alicia> "Thank you, Marie," Alicia nods to her familiar before she tries to read the runes, casting shield upon herself as she does.
[20:13] <Kobrb> The runes are in Celestial. They read: "A three hundred year seal shall contain this beast, a respite earned long and hard. The beast cannot be slayed by my hand, for my sin created it."
[20:14] <Alicia> Next she casts Enlarge Person and Mirror Image...
[20:14] <Alicia> roll 1d4+4
[20:14] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4+4 and gets 5."12 [1d4=1]
[20:15] <Alicia> "Alright. Hopefully the ward is just to keep it in and not me out," Alicia declares before she and her illusory doubles make an attempt at moving the slab.
[20:17] <Kobrb> Alicia touches the slab! It glows hot to the touch, and as she pulls it, the stone cracks in several places! It half moves, half falls away, revealing the inside of the shrine! Inside is...!!! OOC - Alicia, make a will save with a -3 modifier? Marie isn't subject to this attack so her save is moot.
[20:17] <Kobrb> roll 1d20+2
[20:17] * Hatbot --> "Kobrb rolls 1d20+2 and gets 9."12 [1d20=7]
[20:17] <Alicia> roll 1d20+17 (+2 vs evil)
[20:17] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+17 (+2 vs evil) and gets 27."12 [1d20=10]
[20:19] <Alicia> "Brrr!" Alicia shivers for a moment, composing herself as she draws Soul's Enslavement and channels an Enervation spell into it, looking down through the now open passage.
[20:19] <Kobrb> The thing defies name and shape for moments as it rushes forward! It's body rushes forward, shifting! Alicia can see faint images over it - little horrors and yet powerless, nothing to her. Beneath is is a roiling miasma in the shape of a human! OOC - Initiative.
[20:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5 A
[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 A and gets 10."12 [1d20=5]
[20:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7 M
[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 M and gets 8."12 [1d20=1]
[20:21] <Kobrb> roll 1d20+3
[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Kobrb rolls 1d20+3 and gets 6."12 [1d20=3]
[20:21] <Kobrb> roll 1d20+2
[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Kobrb rolls 1d20+2 and gets 18."12 [1d20=16]
[20:21] * Kobrb changes topic to 'Aym>Alicia>Marie>????'

[Corwin]

[18:11] <Alicia> [20:15] <Alicia> "Alright. Hopefully the ward is just to keep it in and not me out," Alicia declares before she and her illusory doubles make an attempt at moving the slab.
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:17] <Kobrb> Alicia touches the slab! It glows hot to the touch, and as she pulls it, the stone cracks in several places! It half moves, half falls away, revealing the inside of the shrine! Inside is...!!! OOC - Alicia, make a will save with a -3 modifier? Marie isn't subject to this attack so her save is moot.
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:17] <Kobrb> roll 1d20+2
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:17] * Hatbot --> "Kobrb rolls 1d20+2 and gets 9."12 [1d20=7]
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:17] <Alicia> roll 1d20+17 (+2 vs evil)
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:17] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+17 (+2 vs evil) and gets 27."12 [1d20=10]
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:19] <Alicia> "Brrr!" Alicia shivers for a moment, composing herself as she draws Soul's Enslavement and channels an Enervation spell into it, looking down through the now open passage.
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:19] <Kobrb> The thing defies name and shape for moments as it rushes forward! It's body rushes forward, shifting! Alicia can see faint images over it - little horrors and yet powerless, nothing to her. Beneath is is a roiling miasma in the shape of a human! OOC - Initiative.
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5 A
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:21] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 A and gets 10."12 [1d20=5]
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7 M
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:21] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 M and gets 8."12 [1d20=1]
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:21] <Kobrb> roll 1d20+3
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:21] * Hatbot --> "Kobrb rolls 1d20+3 and gets 6."12 [1d20=3]
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:21] <Kobrb> roll 1d20+2
[18:11] <Alicia> [20:21] * Hatbot --> "Kobrb rolls 1d20+2 and gets 18."12 [1d20=16]
[18:17] <Kotono> It's shame seems to roil as it approaches, like something of no form at all! Yet Alicia can see a vast maw like a wolf's head coming from it's front, long claws and a spined tail jutting out! It is rather large, as...
[18:17] <Kotono> roll 1d3
[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d3 and gets 1."12 [1d3=1]
[18:19] <Kotono> Aym screams! He holds his sides, going straight backwards! "No..." h e groans, "I'm not that! I'm not! AAAAAAH!" OOC - Alicia.
[18:20] <Alicia> OOC: any knowledge to ID this thing?
[18:20] <Kotono> OOC: K:P if you wish.
[18:20] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 I do
[18:20] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 I do and gets 20."12 [1d20=4]
[18:22] <Alicia> "Hold strong, Aym!" Alicia calls back bravely, firing off an enervation spell at the speed of thought towards the beast as she settles into a defensive posture.
[18:22] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 ranged touch
[18:22] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 ranged touch and gets 24."12 [1d20=8]
[18:23] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 since it probably has SR
[18:23] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 since it probably has SR and gets 21."12 [1d20=8]
[18:24] <Kotono> The spell crackles and fades around the mysterious Beast, fizzling into nothing! It's maw opens wide, looking to chomp down on Alicia! OOC - MAre.
[18:25] <Alicia> Floating above and behind Alicia, Marie fires forth a barrage of arrows and magic missiles to pepper the creature before it closes into melee!
[18:25] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14 SR for magic missile
[18:25] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+14 SR for magic missile and gets 22."12 [1d20=8]
[18:25] <Alicia> roll 1d20+21
[18:25] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+21 and gets 32."12 [1d20=11]
[18:25] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16
[18:25] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 and gets 31."12 [1d20=15]
[18:25] <Alicia> roll 1d20+11
[18:25] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+11 and gets 29."12 [1d20=18]
[18:25] <Kotono> OOC - All hit.
[18:26] <Kotono> OOC - Besides the MM.
[18:26] <Alicia> OOC: any relevant DR or energy resistance?
[18:26] <Kotono> OOC - Roll the energy damage seperately, the arrows can be rolled as one.
[18:26] <Alicia> roll 3d4+3 good piercing
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d4+3 good piercing and gets 9."12 [3d4=2, 3, 1]
[18:26] <Alicia> roll 1d6+1d4 electricity/sonic
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d6+1d4 electricity/sonic and gets 8."12 [1d6=4][1d4=4]
[18:26] <Alicia> roll 1d6+1d4 electricity/sonic
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d6+1d4 electricity/sonic and gets 6."12 [1d6=4][1d4=2]
[18:26] <Alicia> roll 1d6+1d4 electricity/sonic
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d6+1d4 electricity/sonic and gets 6."12 [1d6=3][1d4=3]
[18:28] <Kotono> While the magical projectiles wink out into nothing, the real arrows riddle the creature! The electricity does little do it, but the sonic bursts leave little pockmarks and tears across it's form! As this happens, a great roar comes from it's mouth, as it also bites Alicia!
[18:28] <Kotono> roll 5d6 and make a fort save, Alicia. This is sonic damage so youc an apply your resistance to it.
[18:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d6 and make a fort save, Alicia. This is sonic damage so youc an apply your resistance to it. and gets 18."12 [5d6=1, 3, 3, 6, 5]
[18:28] <Alicia> roll 1d20+22 (assuming evil)
[18:28] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+22 (assuming evil) and gets 26."12 [1d20=4]
[18:30] <Kotono> OOC - Half damage on the sonic.
[18:30] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 bite charge -2 pa
[18:30] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 bite charge -2 pa and gets 24."12 [1d20=2]
[18:31] <Alicia> OOC: AC 40, image AC 15
[18:31] <Kotono> roll 1d6 image
[18:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6 image and gets 5."12 [1d6=5]
[18:31] <Kotono> The sonic sound around Alicia buffets her delicate eardrums, making them throb! Yet even amid this she brings up her arm, delicately using the side of it to deflect it's mawed bite! Meanwhile, Aym continues to scream and flee! OOC - Alicia.
[18:34] <Alicia> "Marie! Follow Aym and make sure he doesn't get lost!" Alicia orders her familiar before she lays into the creature with a series of divinely empowered slashes! And some magic missiles!
[18:34] <Kotono> OOC - I forgot to apply a -2 to your save there, but you made the DC anyway.
[18:34] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 SR for MM
[18:35] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 SR for MM and gets 18."12 [1d20=5]
[18:35] <Alicia> roll 1d20+20 divine might
[18:35] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+20 divine might and gets 24."12 [1d20=4]
[18:35] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 divine might
[18:35] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 divine might and gets 30."12 [1d20=15]
[18:35] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 divine might
[18:35] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 divine might and gets 21."12 [1d20=11]
[18:35] <Kotono> OOC - Two hits.
[18:35] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 SR for enervation
[18:35] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 SR for enervation and gets 28."12 [1d20=15]
[18:35] <Kotono> OOC - Success.
[18:35] <Alicia> roll 1d4 negative levels
[18:35] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 negative levels and gets 1."12 [1d4=1]
[18:36] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis drain
[18:36] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis drain and gets 2."12 [1d4=2]
[18:36] <Alicia> roll 3d6+20
[18:36] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+20 and gets 34."12 [3d6=4, 5, 5]
[18:36] <Alicia> roll 3d6+20
[18:36] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+20 and gets 35."12 [3d6=6, 3, 6]
[18:36] <Alicia> OOC: DC 20 will save or rage
[18:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15 (-1 wis loss)
[18:36] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 (-1 wis loss) and gets 25."12 [1d20=10]
[18:38] <Kotono> The blows rip into the beast, tearing it's shadowy body like nothing at all! The blows are superb, the blade flashing each time it rends the foul creature of darkness! Each time a slight glow of light escapes the sword, glittering all around! OOC - Marie.
[18:39] <Alicia> "Good luck!" Marie tells Alicia, splashing some purple faerie fire onto the creature in case it tries to go invisible or use some clever illusions before she jets off after Aym. "Wait up, Aym!"
[18:40] <Kotono> The beast unleashes it'sf ury now, even as Alicia feels a strange stirring in her soul! OOC - Will save first, -2.
[18:40] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18
[18:40] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 and gets 33."12 [1d20=15]
[18:41] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 claw (-1 drain)
[18:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 claw (-1 drain) and gets 22."12 [1d20=1]
[18:41] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 claw (-1 drain)
[18:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 claw (-1 drain) and gets 39."12 [1d20=18]
[18:42] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain)
[18:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain) and gets 34."12 [1d20=15]
[18:42] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain)
[18:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain) and gets 35."12 [1d20=16]
[18:42] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 bite (-1 drain)
[18:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 bite (-1 drain) and gets 32."12 [1d20=13]
[18:42] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 tail
[18:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 tail and gets 20."12 [1d20=1]
[18:42] <Alicia> OOC: AC 32 (I miss you already, Marie), image AC 15
[18:42] <Kotono> OOC +1 to the tail, so it's moot.
[18:42] <Kotono> OOC - But it's moot rather.
[18:42] <Kotono> roll 1d5 claw 2
[18:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d5 claw 2 and gets 4."12 [1d5=4]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d4 rake 1
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 rake 1 and gets 1."12 [1d4=1]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 2d4+8+1d12+8 and make a will save, Alicia?
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d4+8+1d12+8 and make a will save, Alicia? and gets 26."12 [2d4=1, 3][1d12=6]
[18:43] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 and gets 35."12 [1d20=17]
[18:44] <Kotono> The blows assault Alicia's body, making her want to cry as she feels violated, vile pains flowing in her injuries! She feels something within her trying to unravel, held at bay by force of will! OOC  Alicia.
[18:46] <Alicia> "Urgh..." Alicia staggers a bit, severely taxed by this assault. "Underestimated you," she grimaces, before promising, "Won't happen again!" as she blasts the creature with another enervation spell and attacks with a careful series of defensive strikes, bolstering her strikes with magic!
[18:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+17 ranged touch
[18:46] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+17 ranged touch and gets 35."12 [1d20=18]
[18:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 SR
[18:46] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 SR and gets 18."12 [1d20=5]
[18:47] <Alicia> roll 1d20+20 divine might, fighting defensively, 4th level slot channelled
[18:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+20 divine might, fighting defensively, 4th level slot channelled and gets 38."12 [1d20=18]
[18:47] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 divine might, fighting defensively, 4th level slot channelled
[18:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 divine might, fighting defensively, 4th level slot channelled and gets 32."12 [1d20=17]
[18:47] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 divine might, fighting defensively, 4th level slot channelled
[18:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 divine might, fighting defensively, 4th level slot channelled and gets 26."12 [1d20=16]
[18:47] <Kotono> OOC - All hit but the enervation.
[18:47] <Alicia> roll 3d6+20+4d4
[18:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+20+4d4 and gets 39."12 [3d6=1, 4, 4][4d4=3, 4, 1, 2]
[18:47] <Alicia> roll 3d6+20+4d4
[18:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+20+4d4 and gets 35."12 [3d6=3, 3, 1][4d4=3, 1, 1, 3]
[18:47] <Alicia> roll 3d6+20+4d4
[18:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+20+4d4 and gets 35."12 [3d6=4, 3, 1][4d4=1, 1, 2, 3]
[18:47] <Alicia> OOC: DC 20 save or rage
[18:48] <Alicia> roll 3d4 wis drain first
[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d4 wis drain first and gets 9."12 [3d4=2, 4, 3]
[18:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10 (-6 wis)
[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 (-6 wis) and gets 28."12 [1d20=18]
[18:49] <Kotono> Alicia utterly savages the Beast, finding it's body to resist her skillfull, powerful blows! Even as she tears it apart, it clings to it's existance tenaciously! It seems content to ravage her, as she again feels something gnawing within her! OOC - Will save -2.
[18:50] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18
[18:50] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 and gets 27."12 [1d20=9]
[18:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 claw (-1 drain)
[18:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 claw (-1 drain) and gets 40."12 [1d20=19]
[18:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 claw (-1 drain)
[18:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 claw (-1 drain) and gets 40."12 [1d20=19]
[18:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain)
[18:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain) and gets 39."12 [1d20=20]
[18:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain)
[18:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain) and gets 34."12 [1d20=15]
[18:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain) crit?
[18:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 rake (-1 drain) crit? and gets 37."12 [1d20=18]
[18:51] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 bite (-1 drain)
[18:51] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 bite (-1 drain) and gets 33."12 [1d20=14]
[18:51] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 tail
[18:51] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 tail and gets 28."12 [1d20=9]
[18:51] <Kotono> OOC - AC and images left?
[18:51] <Alicia> OOC: AC 35, image AC 15 (3 of them)
[18:52] <Kotono> roll 1d4 claw 1
[18:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 claw 1 and gets 2."12 [1d4=2]
[18:52] <Kotono> roll 1d3 claw 2
[18:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d3 claw 2 and gets 2."12 [1d3=2]
[18:52] <Kotono> roll 1d2 rake 1
[18:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d2 rake 1 and gets 2."12 [1d2=2]
[18:53] <Kotono> Alicia finds her images shredded into oblivion, even as she manages to stand tall against the creature! She feels something coming so close to slipping within her, but she holds fast and true to it at the last moment! OOC - Alicia.
[18:55] <Alicia> "Mystra, guide my blade to fell this vile foe!" Alicia calls, more magic channelled to deliver a cleaving blow down its middle before she flips backwards and retreats to gain some room.
[18:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+30 -10 power attack true strike
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+30 -10 power attack true strike and gets 44."12 [1d20=14]
[18:55] <Alicia> OOC: divine might as well
[18:55] <Alicia> roll 3d6+40
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+40 and gets 52."12 [3d6=3, 3, 6]
[18:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 DC 15 tumble
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 DC 15 tumble and gets 26."12 [1d20=11]
[18:55] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis drain
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis drain and gets 4."12 [1d4=4]
[18:55] <Alicia> OOC: DC 20 or rage
[18:57] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
[18:57] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 22."12 [1d20=14]
[18:57] <Kotono> OOC - -1 more, but mooooot.
[18:58] <Kotono> Alicia cleaves the beast right down the middle! She nearly bisects it, it's body shaking and quivering! She then tumbles backwards, rolling smoothly out of the shrine and into the silver void! Even devastated, the Beast follows! It charges Alicia full out, another tugging at her insides! OOC - Will save -2.
[18:58] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18
[18:58] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 and gets 30."12 [1d20=12]
[18:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 claw -4 PA
[18:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 claw -4 PA and gets 25."12 [1d20=5]
[18:59] <Kotono> It's charge is a mighty one, but Alicia deflects it with the blade of the Fallen! As she brings the sword back around, she again has to resist the horrible fraying feelings burning within her soul! OOC - Alicia.
[19:22] <Alicia> Feeling that the tide of battle is in her favour, Alicia spares a moment to hope Marie's having luck dealing with Aym, and delivers a brutal hacking stab into the Beast's chest before she soars straight up, jinking this way and that to avoid its claws!
[19:22] <Alicia> roll 1d20+30 -10 power attack true strike divine might
[19:22] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+30 -10 power attack true strike divine might and gets 38."12 [1d20=8]
[19:22] <Alicia> roll 3d6+40
[19:22] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+40 and gets 50."12 [3d6=1, 5, 4]
[19:22] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 DC 15 tumble
[19:22] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 DC 15 tumble and gets 32."12 [1d20=17]
[19:22] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis drain
[19:22] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis drain and gets 1."12 [1d4=1]
[19:22] <Alicia> OOC: DC 20 will or rage
[19:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
[19:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 17."12 [1d20=9]
[19:23] <Kotono> Alicia hacks at it's chest, shadowy blood and matter dripping away! Even as it pursues foolishly, it can only try and bite her with it's huge maw!
[19:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+23 (+2 rage, -1 drain, +2 charge, -2 PA)
[19:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+23 (+2 rage, -1 drain, +2 charge, -2 PA) and gets 32."12 [1d20=9]
[19:23] <Kotono> OOC - AC?
[19:23] <Alicia> OOC: 32. Damn you, rage!
[19:24] <Kotono> roll 1d6+10
[19:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6+10 and gets 15."12 [1d6=5]
[19:25] <Kotono> The bite is a little too fast, chomping down hard on Alicia's hand! She feels a thirll of pain there and a horrible twisting of her flesh, an agony that will not stop assaulting her senses! OOC - Alicia. If you're curious, Marie+Aym are still merrily chasing each other.
[19:27] <Alicia> "Dammit," Alicia winces and pulls her hand back. "Fall!" she calls, striking hard before retreating away to gain more ground and conjuring forth more mirror images.
[19:27] <Alicia> roll 1d20+20 -6 power attack, smite, divine might
[19:27] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+20 -6 power attack, smite, divine might and gets 32."12 [1d20=12]
[19:28] <Alicia> roll 3d6+34
[19:28] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+34 and gets 48."12 [3d6=4, 6, 4]
[19:28] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis drain
[19:28] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis drain and gets 3."12 [1d4=3]
[19:28] <Alicia> roll 1d4+4 MI
[19:28] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4+4 MI and gets 8."12 [1d4=4]
[19:31] <Kotono> Alicia cuts deeply into The Best! This time it's entire form seem sto collapse into itself, winking out into a burst of screams! A thousand cries of fury muted into oblivion! Her blade crackles white after, trailing behind it's finishing arc. For a moment, Alicia hears a sigh of relief from where the Beast was, then silence.
[19:33] <Alicia> "Oh..." Alicia sags in relief. "Thank goodness," she rests a hand over her bleeding ear and attempts to heal what she's able to, floating back down towards the shrine. Hopefully Marie and Aym will return soon, but in the meantime she'll need to meditate and recentre herself after all that so she'll be in a fit state to help the assault on the demon fortress.
[19:37] <Kotono> Returning to the shrine, Alicia sees that the insides are barren enough. There's some runes on the inside that she can notice with a glance now that she's not under direct assault.
[19:38] * Alicia takes the time to read over them, though she doesn't unduly stress herself about it. Summoning a fireplace from her survival pouch she intends to simply rest beside it until it vanishes, at which point she'll refresh her magic and depart. Hopefully Marie and Aym will have returned before then.
[19:42] <Kotono> It's the story of a man who was a mighty warrior, but could not overcome his own anger. It grew to dominate him, and in one battle against Yugoloth mercenaries, became it's own living terror.  It often took over his body, wrecking havoc. It eventually gained it's own form, but was sealed away as normal weapons could not lay it to rest.
[19:44] <Alicia> Soul's Enslavement is anything but normal. Well, it's a pertinent lesson, one hopefully Aym can learn from as well... when he returns. With nothing much else to do, Alicia settles in to rest and wait, doing her best to bandage up her vile unhealing wounds as a stop-gap until proper healing can be sought.
[19:45] <Kotono> It's some measure of time for Aym and Marie to return. Aym is shamefaced, going to sit dejectedly and not say a word.
[19:47] <Alicia> "That creature was a mighty foe, and its mere presence unnatural. There is no shame in falling victim to its trickery," Alicia consoles him as she relaxes, before indicating the writings within. "Still, you might want to read the story of how it came to be, for it surely holds relevance to yourself."
[19:47] <Alicia> Meanwhile Marie fusses over Alicia, seeming entirely distraught over the horrific wounds her mistress has endured.
[19:50] <Kotono> Aym doesn't speak, but goes to read. HIs expression is a mix of anger and shame, going to rest against a back wall. He doesn't say much ofa nything, though, bowing his head.
[19:51] <Alicia> "When the fire burns out, we depart. For now, rest," Alicia suggests, smiling indulgently at her familiar's fussing.
[19:54] <Kotono> The fire burns out without incident. Alicia refreshes herself, the time having passed in the same nothingness as all 'time' in the Astral does.
[19:57] * Alicia rises. "Now, everyone focus upon the description given to us by the solar - a six-tiered castle amid a bank of blank clouds, for that is our destination." At that she takes off in the direction the solar was heading in earlier. "It's a pity you never saw me battle the beast, Aym. Perhaps there is still more yet to be learned on this journey, though."
[19:58] <Kotono> "I have had enough humiliation for a lifetime," Aym says, the sound of gritting teeth behind his words.
[20:00] <Alicia> "In that case do you wish to prove your valour in battle when we reach the demon-held fortress?" Alicia asks curiously, not really wanting to humiliate him any more herself. She's already done that plenty and it's time to move on.
[20:02] <Kotono> As the travel begins, "Right now...I would tear apart anything," Aym growls.
[20:05] <Alicia> "That's not good enough," Alicia reprimands. "Focus, Aym! Focus is the most important thing for a warrior. We'd be fighting alongside a number of allies who would all be counting on us to perform our role exactly - a warrior who runs wild in battle is a liability to the group. And heaven help us if while lost in your rage you were to strike out at an ally."
[20:08] <Kotono> "I will focus...on tearing something demonic limb from limb." Aym grinds out, continuing on. "And not an ally, at least."
[20:12] <Alicia> "That's something I can accept - for now," Alicia nods. "Though your motivations may be suspect, I will grant you some trust. Here," she removes the sheath buckled to her belt containing the Sword of the Sealed Gate and holds it towards Aym as they fly along with their shared goal in mind.
[20:12] <Alicia> "Perhaps smaller than you are used to, but demons struck by it will be unable to teleport away, and its mere presence inhibits their ability to summon reinforcements. It is in every way a worthy blade."
[20:13] <Kotono> Aym takes the blade and nods, continuing his flight along. "Yes...good. Soon..." He doesn't seem to vocalize it beyond that, hurrying along with grim determination on his face.
[20:15] <Kotono> roll 2d6
[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d6 and gets 8."12 [2d6=4, 4]
[20:15] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 93."12 [1d100=93]
[20:15] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 15."12 [1d100=15]
[20:15] <Kotono> roll 1d100 special you just draw the 90+es out here
[20:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special you just draw the 90+es out here and gets 15."12 [1d100=15]
[20:16] <Kotono> roll 1d100 special you just draw the 90+es out here reroll that, DM's choice
[20:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special you just draw the 90+es out here reroll that, DM's choice and gets 72."12 [1d100=72]

[Corwin]

[15:44] <Kotono> > Aym takes the blade and nods, continuing his flight along. "Yes...good. Soon..." He doesn't seem to vocalize it beyond that, hurrying along with grim determination on his face.
[15:44] <Kotono> > roll 2d6
[15:44] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d6 and gets 8." [2d6=4, 4]
[15:44] <Kotono> > roll 1d100
[15:44] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 93." [1d100=93]
[15:44] <Kotono> > roll 1d100
[15:44] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 15." [1d100=15]
[15:44] <Kotono> > roll 1d100 special you just draw the 90+es out here
[15:44] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special you just draw the 90+es out here and gets 15." [1d100=15]
[15:44] <Kotono> > roll 1d100 special you just draw the 90+es out here reroll that, DM's choice
[15:44] <Kotono> * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 special you just draw the 90+es out here reroll that, DM's choice and gets 72." [1d100=72]
[15:47] <Kotono> Some more 'time' has passed. As Alicia and friends fly through the silvery sky, past roiling, boiling clouds of silver and violet, something can be seen above. Far above, coming to the side and generally opposite to the party's path. It is a vast ship, made of stout wood and passing through the Astral with ease.
[15:47] <Alicia> Does it look like the Githyanki ships that appeared above Balmuria?
[15:48] <Kotono> Alicia can see that it does.
[15:48] <Kotono> Same rough design, same flying in nothingness. It's pretty far away,t hough.
[15:49] <Alicia> "Githyanki," Alicia states for the benefit of Aym and Marie. "Still, we have more pressing concerns than to let ourselves get sidetracked by them - lets ignore them so long as they ignore us," she suggests, keeping her mind on the six-tiered fortress as she presses on at the speed of thought.
[15:50] <Kotono> Aym glances at the ship as well. For it's part, it seems to pay no mind to you either. It passes by without incident. Thus the journey continues...
[15:50] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[15:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 70."12 [1d100=70]
[15:50] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[15:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 62."12 [1d100=62]
[15:50] <Kotono> Alicia notes that her magical weapon enchantment has expired.
[15:51] <Alicia> Since she'll likely need a lot of spells for the assault, Alicia doesn't refresh it. She does produce some food and drink from her survival pouch, however, knowing that the waterskin will vanish in eight hours provides its own degree of timekeeping.
[15:52] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[15:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 37."12 [1d100=37]
[15:52] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[15:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 56."12 [1d100=56]
[15:52] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[15:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 83."12 [1d100=83]
[15:52] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[15:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 20."12 [1d100=20]
[15:56] <Kotono> At last Alicia can see it! On the horizon, like a burning sun! The celestial host is like a hundred tiny stars glowing in the night sky, surrounding the vast fortress! It sits on solid earthen ground, a vast, six tiered fortress made of bright red stone. There are two rings of the celestials - an outer ring with supplies, tents and visible healers, including some mortals from the looks of it, as well as pegasus, unicorns, a great flaming bird o
[15:56] <Kotono> as well as pegasus, unicorns, a great flaming bird of the purest flames and other such creatures. The inner ring assaults the fortress steadily, attacking it's outer walls and engaged in combat all over against a throng of darkness. In this throng Alicia can glimpse familiar horrors - vrocks, glabrezu, succubi and a dozens he cannot. Further, there are others in it - humans and mortals, often twisted, but still notably...mortal.
[15:57] * Alicia looks to see if the solar is visible as they approach, and if not him then someone else visibly in command of the situation.
[15:59] <Kotono> The Solar stands out, like his own nimbus of purity and light in the darkness and silver. He is between the two lines, occasionally casting support and organizing.  In the rearguard, there are several that look to be running things - lantern archons help direct, often to mortals who tend to wounds or bolster the injured.
[16:01] * Alicia decides to follow what appears to be the chain of command, and heads for one of the lantern archons. Besides which it'd be odd to barge through everyone else to reach the solar. "Alicia Reynes and Marielle, servants of Mystra, and Aym, servant of Torm," she introduces the group. "We're here to help."
[16:03] <Kotono> The nearest lantern archon bobs as Alicia approaches, it's voice mature. "Excellent, more are always welcomed. We'll add you to an assault group-hm? You're injured?" The archon floats around Alicia's body and near her wounds, "You need healing first. " He then goes around Marie, "You're not hurt, and the big man isn't either."
[16:04] <Alicia> "The wounds are vile. Unless there's a consecrated area the wounds won't heal," Alicia explains, glancing down at her bandaged but still oozing arms.
[16:05] <Kotono> "We can take care of that," The lantern archon's voice is soothing, a sense of caring and compassion filtering from it. "This way." He starts to fly towards the front of the outer ring.
[16:06] * Alicia follows onwards with her own followers in tow. "How fares the battle?" she asks, looking over towards the fortress.
[16:13] <Kotono> The battles are pitched, with everything looking fairly even from a glance. "I've heard that it's a very difficult battle. The Abyss is entrenched." Your flight path takes you towards a woman who is currently unoccupied. She is middle aged, the fading remnants of beauty hinted at but not preserved. With blonde hair with silver streaks kept in a bun and plain greycloth robes, she stands serenely in the void. "Adorned One, we need your services a
[16:13] <Kotono> "Adorned One, we need your services again to remove the taint of vile wounds."
[16:15] <Alicia> "Greetings," Alicia gives the older woman a respectful look, glad to see a fellow human out here. At least she probably is - most outsiders seem as ageless as elves, anyway. "My name is Alicia Reynes."
[16:16] <Kotono> "Ena Painbearer." She returns the words laconically, "Come and I will call on the Crying God to lessen your suffering. His dictates have made me as sacred as a church." 
[16:17] * Alicia pulls off her bandages and then kneels before the honoured servant of Ilmater. "Do the demons here inflict vile injuries with their attacks?" she asks curiously.
[16:19] <Kotono> "Some do, as do some of their misguided followers," Her hands go out, a prayer murmured. "Crying God, bear this suffering so that pain will come to an end..." Several minor spells are cast, each one lessening the wounds, until they are gone. "Be cautious of vile damage. If you find yourself getting injured, fall backa nd come for healing. We need not win in one suicidally brave rush."
[16:24] <Alicia> "Indeed," Alicia rises, flexing her mended limbs in no small relief. "You have my thanks. Now," she turns to the lantern archon. "We are at your disposal - I am a skilled swordswoman and have no small magic at my command - the walls of that fortress are not so strong that they can withstand Spellfire. Aym is a tremendously strong warrior and his blade will inhibit any demonic summoning magics in the vicinity."
[16:24] <Alicia> "And Marielle is a superbly skilled archer, although her arrows strike better against devils than demons," she explains, wanting to ensure their talents are put to the best use in the coming battle.
[16:26] <Kotono> "Mmm, mmm. Spellfire, you say? As in Mystra's spellfire? Well, your armor does say it all..." Thoughtfully fluttering around Alicia, "Come this way. You'll be sublimely useful for the next penetrating assault."
[16:27] <Kotono> Aym has kept to himself the entire time, a half grimace often showing on his face. His hand goes to the Sword of the Sealed Gate's hilt a few times, knuckles turning golden-white as he grips it.
[16:29] * Alicia follows along. "Are you sure you can go through with this, Aym?" she quietly asks her planetouched companion. "If you have any reservations or doubts I won't stop you from backing out."
[16:30] <Alicia> Marie idly looks around for any familiar faces as she trails Alicia, though she doubts anyone from Elysium would expect to see her actively taking part in such a battle.
[16:30] <Kotono> Aym hesitates but only briefly. "No. I will kill something this day." He looks ahead as the lantern archon leads you along, from the outer ring, starting to go to the inner.
[16:30] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[16:30] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 83."12 [1d100=83]
[16:32] <Kotono> Marie doesn't see anyone she identifies offhand. Of course, since most everything ahead is som form of pitched battle, it's hard to really get good looks.
[16:32] <Alicia> roll 1d20+8 sense motive Does Aym seem on the level?
[16:32] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+8 sense motive Does Aym seem on the level? and gets 25."12 [1d20=17]
[16:34] <Alicia> "Then keep your mind focused on the enemy," Alicia tells him firmly. "Show all the forces of the heavens and the abyss today that Torm's fury can once again be a force for righteousness."
[16:41] <Kotono> Aym's eyes narrow, "So be it," he growls as you are lead along. A bit away from the fighting - but close enough thear the cries, the death wails, the invocations to light and dark by both sides - you come to about level with the fourth tier of the fortress. Ahead a group of astral devas and shiradi eladrin are pushing back the demonic hordes from a section of the wall. Hanging back relatively safely are three - three creatures of the purest lig
[16:42] <Kotono> Hanging back relatively safely are three - three creatures of the purest light, crafted flawlessly. Each wears a breastplate with a golden dawn shown on it, greatswords at the ready. These angels await, studies of utter inhuman perfection in waiting. "Sandriel, Star, Hopiel, this is Alicia Reynes. She has spellfire and will aid your attempt to breech thew alls. Alicia, these three are planetar angels, waiting to attempt to disintegrate a part o
[16:42] <Kotono>  Alicia, these three are planetar angels, waiting to attempt to disintegrate a part of the walls, then proceed in just far enough to ensure no one attempts magic to reseal the hole."
[16:44] <Kotono> Ahead, vrocks and glabrezu are slowly pushed to the sides, being routed back in a vicious battle. Bursts of pure lighta nd greasy darkness alternate, cries as combatants put everything on the line, bleeding but withstanding as best they can. 
[16:45] <Alicia> "If I can get close enough to the fortress I can blast apart an area far too big for them to dream of resealing," Alicia affirms confidently. "Of course, you'll all need to maintain a safe distance - say around seventy feet away - since the release will be uncontrolled. But as soon as its done you can swoop right into the breach."
[16:47] <Kotono> "We are going to attempt to use distinegration. There are two problems," The archon named Sandriel is gloriously beautiful, a man that dominates almost any other Alicia has ever seen. "The demons and followers will use wall of iron and wall of stone to temporarily patch holes, and further, this fortress itself has a slow form of regeneration. Secondly, the walls are extrodinarily tough and resistant to attempts to break them. The Abyss prepared
[16:48] <Kotono> Star is a woman with a blindfold over her eyes, voice very quiet but easy to hear. "Spellfire is very potent, SAndriel. I do not know if itwill overcome the protections fully or not, but it will be as effective as our magic, if not more effective."
[16:48] <Kotono> The Abyss prepared well."
[16:49] <Kotono> Hopiel is a jovial looking man, yet does not look out of place. "Still, welcome Alicia and fair eladrin." His smile stays even as he looks to Aym long...very long.
[16:51] <Alicia> "Thus far I've encountered nothing that can withstand it - and the sheer area it can encompass will make patching it difficult even if any demons who remain near the wall actually survive," Alicia offers, spending a half second to cast shield as they prepare. Seeing the scrutiny Aym is placed under, she volunteers, "Aym is a follower of Torm. He follows me to better understand and channel his rage."
[16:52] <Alicia> "Hi," Marie volunteers, readying her bow and smiling. "Don't worry, I'm a better shot than most coure you've probably met."
[16:52] <Kotono> Hopiel's good cheer does not fade at all, "Then follow her well, Aym. It's not often you find a gem of a woman like that," Chuckling aloud, "Who would be willing to try and fix you up."
[16:53] <Kotono> Sandriel looks to Marie, "You're in her service, eladrin?" he asks. "Then you have more combat experience than most of your kind?"
[16:54] <Alicia> "He mostly has an erinyes to thank. It was Antenora's idea," Marie offers before nodding cheerily at Sandriel. "I blew up a... what was it called again, Alicia?" she glances at her mistress briefly. "Oh, yes! A necronaut! Yes, I took down one of those, once. It was great!"
[16:55] <Kotono> Meanwhile, there is a cheer. Three vrocks are caught in one vast blast of holy power, dissipating! A few Shiradi push the remainder up and to the sides, the way to the red wall clearing!
[16:55] <Alicia> As Marie brags Alicia spends a moment to cast greater magic weapon upon Soul's Enslavement, the Sword of the Sealed Gate, and Thunderstrike.
[16:55] <Kotono> Sandriel shakes his head, "A fascinating story there to be sure, but this is not the time. Prepare now," Sandriel warns, "For it looks like our chance comes.
[16:56] <Alicia> "Remember, it won't be safe within seventy feet of me when I go to breach the wall," Alicia cautions one more time, casting enlarge person as she readies herself to push forward.
[17:04] <Kotono> "Go ahead," Star murmurs, "The Court of the Stars will guide you on this path of righteousness."
[17:05] <Kotono> "We'll be right behind," Sandriel vows, "If your spellfire does not accomplish the matter fully, or disintegration will follow."
[17:05] <Kotono> *our
[17:07] <Alicia> "Then lets go!" Alicia takes off full speed towards the fortress, intending to position herself against the wall at the third tier so that her spellfire nova will take out the largest area. Marie follows just behind her, intending to stop about a hundred feet before Alicia does so she can employ cover fire from there.
[17:09] <Kotono> The planetars follow as well, Aym just a bit ahead of them. With the forces of the Abyss and the Heavens at war a few hundred feet away, Alicia reaches the wall! As she does, she can see that the walls stare at her! The red stone is more like a semi hard jelly, with eyes coming out to stare at her endlessly, dozens of tiny eyes.
[17:11] * Alicia stops and smiles with soul's enslavement dangling at her side as she sweeps her free hand through the air before her, a swarm of duplicates springing up before all of the identical Alicias rest their hands on the wall. "Bang," she announces before unleashing a massive nova of pure discorporating magic.
[17:11] <Alicia> roll 1d4+4 MI
[17:11] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4+4 MI and gets 5."12 [1d4=1]
[17:12] <Alicia> roll 18d8 spellfire (DC 24 reflex for anyone nearby. Stuff behind the wall probably gets +2 from cover) 60ft radius
[17:12] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 18d8 spellfire (DC 24 reflex for anyone nearby. Stuff behind the wall probably gets +2 from cover) 60ft radius and gets 81."12 [18d8=5, 7, 5, 4, 2, 6, 7, 5, 6, 5, 1, 5, 7, 4, 1, 3, 5, 3]
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 43."12 [1d100=43]
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 13."12 [1d20=4]
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 16."12 [1d20=7]
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 4."12 [1d20=1]
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 6."12 [1d20=3]
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 12."12 [1d20=9]
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 21."12 [1d20=18]
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 15."12 [1d20=12]
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 and gets 32."12 [1d20=16]
[17:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 and gets 24."12 [1d20=8]
[17:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20
[17:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 and gets 34."12 [1d20=14]
[17:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21
[17:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 and gets 30."12 [1d20=9]
[17:18] <Kotono> The wall reacts strangely with the spellfire, jelly slowly dissipating! It's like the burst goes in slow motion, eyes popping! However, the powerful burst seems to win the day, crumbling a hole ahead! IN this layer you see the insides are like a jelly, blubbery and shaking! You catch glimpse of several piteous Manes just inside the wall, vaporised! TWo twisted, perhaps one human...things are beyond them, longsword in one hand and a twisted claw
[17:18] <Kotono> longsword in one hand and a twisted claw in the other!  Behind them are two multiarmed women, turning into snakes at the bottom. Each arm has a longsword, gleaming in the spellfire's light! Behind them are two in robes, already starting to call words of arcane power! OOC - I'm going to call initiative here for organization.
[17:19] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 CL
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 CL and gets 22."12 [1d20=6]
[17:19] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 CL
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 CL and gets 28."12 [1d20=12]
[17:19] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5 A
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 A and gets 20."12 [1d20=15]
[17:19] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7 M
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 M and gets 8."12 [1d20=1]
[17:19] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 Aym
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 Aym and gets 17."12 [1d20=15]
[17:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 twisted man 1
[17:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 twisted man 2
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 twisted man 1 and gets 12."12 [1d20=7]
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 twisted man 2 and gets 25."12 [1d20=20]
[17:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[17:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 17."12 [1d20=13]
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 and gets 7."12 [1d20=3]
[17:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
[17:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 28."12 [1d20=20]
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 17."12 [1d20=9]
[17:20] <Alicia> roll 1d20+16 planes
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+16 planes and gets 28."12 [1d20=12]
[17:22] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robe 1(28)>TM2(25)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Robe 2>TM1(12)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)'
[17:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8 SAndriel
[17:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 SAndriel and gets 22."12 [1d20=14]
[17:24] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8 Star
[17:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 Star and gets 9."12 [1d20=1]
[17:24] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8 Hopiel
[17:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 Hopiel and gets 10."12 [1d20=2]
[17:24] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robe 1(28)>TM2(25)>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Robe 2>TM1(12)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)'
[17:26] <Kotono> The first robed one raises it's gaze to Alicia. It's face is horribly twisted, it's eyeballs poking out several feet, eyestalks dripping blood! "Oh, ruin ruin ruin! Seal it!" So he calls, much of the bottom part of the blasthole now having an iron wall blocking entry! As this happens, one of the twisted...things, burned by spellfire as it may be, rushes Alicia headlong!
[17:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 +2 charge
[17:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 +2 charge and gets 27."12 [1d20=11]
[17:27] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[17:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6 and gets 5."12 [1d6=5]
[17:28] <Kotono> It gets up close to Alicia, a foul rot from it's body making her nose protest! However, it harmlessly cuts through one of her images! As this happens, Sandriel surges ahead, a thin green ray coming from him as he advances, going to the iron wall!
[17:30] <Kotono> A chunk of the iron wall disintegrates into dust, ruined! At Alicia's side now, Sandriel brandishes his greatsword, "Begone, impure one!" he calls, lashing out at it!
[17:30] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 (+2 charge, -4 PA)
[17:30] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 (+2 charge, -4 PA) and gets 30."12 [1d20=9]
[17:30] <Kotono> roll 3d6+19
[17:30] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 3d6+19 and gets 26."12 [3d6=2, 4, 1]
[17:31] <Kotono> The creature's head is severed from it's body, white flames burning it's corpse into nothingness! "We have come for you! There is nor esisting the power of the HEavens!" he cries, pointing his sword at one of the Mariliths!
[17:32] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robe 1(28)>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Robe 2>TM1(12)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)'
[17:33] <Kotono> OOC - Alicia, you're up when you respawn.
[17:34] <Alicia> OOC: is there enough room for me to get sixty feet away from Sandriel within the fortress?
[17:35] <Kotono> The fortress itself has a lot of space here. The room is about one hundred feet large or so, the walls a blobby jelly. It shakes and writhes on occasion, with no clear doors. The robes nad mairlith are about 30 feet away from you.
[17:38] * Alicia flies into the chamber, past the demons and positioning herself at the ceiling before another burst of spellfire surges out in a nova to decimate the interior of the fortress and vastly widen the scope of the breach. Following that she'll fire some magic missiles at whatever still lives nearby.
[17:38] <Alicia> roll 15d8 DC 24 spellfire 60ft radius
[17:38] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 15d8 DC 24 spellfire 60ft radius and gets 72."12 [15d8=5, 8, 5, 2, 1, 6, 5, 8, 5, 7, 1, 8, 5, 4, 2]
[17:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 22."12 [1d20=15]
[17:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14 M1
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 M1 and gets 31."12 [1d20=17]
[17:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14 M2
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 M2 and gets 24."12 [1d20=10]
[17:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 and gets 32."12 [1d20=14]
[17:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19
[17:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 and gets 37."12 [1d20=18]
[17:40] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robe 1(28)>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Robe 2>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)'
[17:40] <Kotono> roll 72/2
[17:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 72/2 and gets 36."12
[17:42] <Kotono> The burst of spellfire disintegrates the other twisted man! The rest of the Mariliths and the robes men are scorched, though none are caught offguard! The fortress walls are scorched! Inside you can see more chambers, more demons, more horrors beyond, the way to deeper insanity opened! At this Aym rushes forward, a feral cry as he closes in, reaching to inside the fortress! OOC - Marilith 1 and robe 2 are also up this tick.
[17:42] <Kotono> The first Marilith turns to Alicia, a sneer on it's face. "A mortal tries to disrupt my plans? Absurd! How do you defy my plans and my seeing? To the Abyss with you! Come, my servants!"
[17:42] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[17:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 98."12 [1d100=98]
[17:43] <Kotono> OOC - Ack, I'ms orry, I forgot the MMs. Resolve this?
[17:43] <Kotono> OOC - Those, I mean?
[17:44] <Alicia> Since the marilith just identified it as a leader, it gets shot!
[17:44] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13 SR
[17:44] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 SR and gets 19."12 [1d20=6]
[17:45] <Kotono> Alicia's magic crumbles against the Abyssial horror, as a black aura comes to life around it! Meanwhile, the second robed one looks up, it's face...empty for nothing but dripping slime! Burbled words come from it's maw as it gestures at Sandriel!
[17:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 and gets 22."12 [1d20=4]
[17:46] <Kotono> Yet nothing happens to him at all! With a scowl, the robed one then chants at length in it's inhuman words! A ball of black fire bursts around Alicia! OOC - Ref save.
[17:47] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14
[17:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+14 and gets 25."12 [1d20=11]
[17:47] <Kotono> roll 10d6
[17:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 35."12 [10d6=3, 2, 5, 6, 6, 3, 1, 6, 1, 2]
[17:47] <Kotono> roll 35*1.5
[17:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 35*1.5 and gets 52.5."12
[17:47] <Kotono> OOC - 52 damage halved. Half of that is fire and half is unholy if it matters.
[17:49] <Kotono> The black power that erupts around Alicia makes her body want to cry forth, the power of destruction wrecking against her pure white soul! AT this, however, Hopiel joins the battle! He covers ground with a stunning ease, coming to twenty feet of the first Marilith, "Your time in this world is over!" Two thin green beams come from his hand at her!
[17:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[17:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[17:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 29."12 [1d20=12]
[17:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 24."12 [1d20=7]
[17:50] <Kotono> roll 1d20+23 fort
[17:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+23 fort and gets 25."12 [1d20=2]
[17:50] <Kotono> roll 5d6
[17:50] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d6 and gets 23."12 [5d6=3, 6, 5, 6, 3]
[17:52] <Kotono> The rays flicker in front of the unholy pussiance of the Marilith, only removing a bit of her back's flesh! Star follows, blindfolded eyes seeming not to slow her at all! She goes closer to Alicia, but points at the first robed man! "Return to the void that spawned you, creature!" As a green ray arches at him!
[17:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11 fort
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 fort and gets 28."12 [1d20=17]
[17:52] <Kotono> roll 5d6
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d6 and gets 15."12 [5d6=6, 1, 1, 4, 3]
[17:53] <Kotono> As one of the cultist's eyes turns to dust, as now a burst of holy power follows that!
[17:53] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 will
[17:53] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 will and gets 30."12 [1d20=10]
[17:53] <Kotono> roll 5d8
[17:53] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 and gets 24."12 [5d8=3, 7, 2, 8, 4]
[17:54] * Kotono changes topic to 'Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Robe 2>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)'
[17:54] <Kotono> The cultist tries to withstand the holy power, even evading some of it! However, even a partial blast is too much,a s it's body is consumed by the light! OOC - Marie.
[17:55] <Alicia> From outside the fortress Marie fires in a barrage of cold iron arrows towards the closest marilith!
[17:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+23
[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+23 and gets 42."12 [1d20=19]
[17:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18
[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 and gets 36."12 [1d20=18]
[17:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13
[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 and gets 22."12 [1d20=9]
[17:55] <Kotono> OOC - Two hits.
[17:55] <Alicia> roll 2d4+6+2d4 not rolling electric damage
[17:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 2d4+6+2d4 not rolling electric damage and gets 17."12 [2d4=4, 2][2d4=2, 3]
[17:56] <Kotono> The arrows fly mostly true, embedding into the many arms of the snake demon! It howls in it's displeasure, even as it's twin acts! "Grr...stupid celestials!  I'm not going to let my first battle be ruined by you!"
[17:57] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[17:57] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 21."12 [1d100=21]
[17:57] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[17:57] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 1."12 [1d4=1]
[17:57] * Kotono changes topic to 'Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Robe 2>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)=Hezrou'
[17:58] <Kotono> A horrible, lumbering creature of the abyss appears in front of the marilith, who immediately charges Star! However, Aym is within that range as...
[17:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9 will
[17:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 will and gets 11."12 [1d20=2]
[17:58] <Kotono> The hezrou blinks and vanishes away!
[17:58] * Kotono changes topic to 'Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Robe 2>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)'
[17:59] <Kotono> Meanwhile, from the holes Alicia tore open, more demons come forth! Another twisted man lumbers out, as well as a pair of vrocks!
[17:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5 twisted man
[17:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 twisted man and gets 14."12 [1d20=9]
[17:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 vrock
[17:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2 vrock
[17:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 vrock and gets 17."12 [1d20=15]
[17:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 vrock and gets 4."12 [1d20=2]
[18:00] * Kotono changes topic to 'Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Robe 2=Vrock1>TM3(14)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)>Vrock 2(4)'
[18:01] <Kotono> Sandriel flies up, so that Alicia is within twenty feet! A burst of holy power detonates, surrounding her with a holy aura of radiance! At the same time, a burst of white strikes the first Marilith, "Are you hurt?" Sandriel calls even as this happens.
[18:02] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 sr
[18:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 sr and gets 21."12 [1d20=4]
[18:02] <Kotono> However, the white power fizzles in the face of the Marilith's might! OOC - Alicia, you're up.
[18:04] <Kotono> "How?" The second marilith spits in disbelief, turning it's attention towards Sandriel and Star, "You little bastards, dispelling my summons!"
[18:05] <Kotono> From outside the clash of arms can still be heard, a steady pounding that leaves echos as a backdrop to the furious battle within the fortress!
[18:05] <Alicia> "A little, but nothing severe yet," Alicia nods, grateful for the concern. "Mystra, guide my blade," she whispers under her breath before rushing forward to hack apart the robed being, her attention more on the marilith who just spoke. "This is your first battle? Who did you sleep with to earn your station, then?" she asks mockingly, trying to keep their momentum up and the demons off balance.
[18:05] <Alicia> roll 1d20+30 -10pa divine might
[18:05] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+30 -10pa divine might and gets 35."12 [1d20=5]
[18:06] <Kotono> OOC - Hit.
[18:06] <Alicia> roll 3d6+40
[18:06] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+40 and gets 47."12 [3d6=2, 3, 2]
[18:06] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis drain
[18:06] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis drain and gets 3."12 [1d4=3]
[18:06] <Alicia> OOC: DC 20 will or rage
[18:06] * Kotono changes topic to 'Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Vrock1>TM3(14)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)>Vrock 2(4)'
[18:06] <Kotono> OOC - Moot, but make a ref save.
[18:07] <Kotono> "Grr..." Thes econd marilith spits again, "How did you know?! This form doesn't even look like my old one except for up here! I'll kill you and eat your entrails for a year!"
[18:09] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14
[18:09] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+14 and gets 32."12 [1d20=18]
[18:11] <Kotono> As her sword severs the cultist in twain, it's entire body bursts like a bloody, slimy zit! It's slime goes flying, but Alicia avoids the stinking, steaming substance by flying straight and then rolling to the side, batting it away by spinning her blade! OOC - Aym.
[18:11] <Kotono> Aym lets forth a primal scream from his throat, before he charges the Marilith, uncaring even as she swipes at him as he does so!
[18:12] <Kotono> roll 1d20+25 AoO
[18:12] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+25 AoO and gets 31."12 [1d20=6]
[18:12] <Kotono> roll 2d6+9
[18:12] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d6+9 and gets 16."12 [2d6=6, 1]
[18:13] <Kotono> Even as Aym is cut open, he returns the favor heartily!
[18:13] <Kotono> roll 1d20+21 (-3 PA)
[18:13] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+21 (-3 PA) and gets 38."12 [1d20=17]
[18:14] <Kotono> roll 1d8+15
[18:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+15 and gets 21."12 [1d8=6]
[18:15] <Kotono> Aym tears into the bladed woman's flesh, even ignoring the fact that his sword struggles to cut in! Marilith and the vrock are up.
[18:15] <Kotono> The vrock screetches loud, before charging Alicia head on! It's one becomes several, mirror images appearing even as it strikes!
[18:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[18:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 18."12 [1d20=15]
[18:15] <Kotono> roll 1d4+3 ooops
[18:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+3 ooops and gets 7."12 [1d4=4]
[18:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 claw
[18:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 claw and gets 28."12 [1d20=10]
[18:16] <Kotono> OOC - AC?
[18:16] <Kotono> roll 1d5
[18:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d5 and gets 3."12 [1d5=3]
[18:17] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 claw cleave
[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 claw cleave and gets 20."12 [1d20=2]
[18:17] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[18:17] <Alicia> OOC: AC 36, image 15
[18:17] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 4."12 [1d4=4]
[18:18] <Kotono> As it strikes, a mass of horrible spores erupt from it's feathered body! They touch like fire to Alicia's skin, making her flesh crawl!
[18:18] <Kotono> roll 1d8
[18:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8 and gets 4."12 [1d8=4]
[18:19] <Kotono> The Marilith turns to Hopiel with a look of disdain, "Is that...it? Piteous!" she cries, before pouncing on him!
[18:19] <Kotono> roll 1d20+23 charge -4 PA
[18:19] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+23 charge -4 PA and gets 31."12 [1d20=8]
[18:20] <Kotono> CLANK! Her blade cuts onto Hopiel's breastplate, hitting that instead of his neck by a bare inch! Meanwhile, the twisted, piteous follower goes to charge Sandriel!
[18:20] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 +2 charge
[18:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 +2 charge and gets 20."12 [1d20=4]
[18:20] <Kotono> roll 1d3
[18:20] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d3 and gets 3."12 [1d3=3]
[18:22] <Kotono> Alicia has another image butchered, but she's not stricken or hurt in the slightest! To this, Hopiel grins wide, "Superb! I will strike you down where you stand, demon!" Divine power comes from him, clashing against the unholy aura around the snake demon!
[18:22] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 greater dispel magic
[18:22] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 greater dispel magic and gets 19."12 [1d20=2]
[18:26] <Kotono> Yet that fails, and instead, Hopiel gestures easily, "Fine then. Come to strike down the wicked," he calls, as a great lion-like warrior appears behind the marilith, striking!
[18:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 and gets 37."12 [1d20=15]
[18:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 and gets 42."12 [1d20=20]
[18:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 crit?
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 crit? and gets 25."12 [1d20=3]
[18:26] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[18:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 23."12 [1d20=6]
[18:27] <Kotono> roll 1d6+8
[18:27] <Kotono> roll 1d6+8
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6+8 and gets 10."12 [1d6=2]
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6+8 and gets 12."12 [1d6=4]
[18:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 fort 1
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 fort 1 and gets 24."12 [1d20=11]
[18:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 fort 2
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 fort 2 and gets 28."12 [1d20=15]
[18:27] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[18:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6 and gets 2."12 [1d6=2]
[18:28] <Kotono> The unholy aura around the marilith flickers even as she's clawed, the body of the leonal withering!
[18:29] <Kotono> Star glides forth, going to engage the vrock that has not yet moved, as a burst of white surrounds the one that has assaulted Alicia!
[18:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 (+2 charge, -5 PA)
[18:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 (+2 charge, -5 PA) and gets 21."12 [1d20=1]
[18:29] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 CL
[18:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 CL and gets 23."12 [1d20=6]
[18:29] <Kotono> roll 10d6
[18:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 41."12 [10d6=2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 3, 5, 6, 2, 5]
[18:30] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[18:30] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 20."12 [1d20=10]
[18:31] <Kotono> The vrock on Alicia is buffeted by holy, sacred powers but stands in front of her, even as it screetches in the angel's direction! Meanwhile, Marie notices something. The wall slowly starts to slither closed, just a tiny bit, like a slow moving tide of slime. OOC - MArie.
[18:32] <Alicia> "Everyone! Get to the breach while it's wide open!" Marie calls towards the battling celestials outside before taking careful aim to fire at the marilith near Aym in order to give him some support.
[18:32] <Alicia> roll 1d20+23 cold iron arrows still
[18:32] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+23 cold iron arrows still and gets 27."12 [1d20=4]
[18:33] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18
[18:33] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18  and gets 21."12 [1d20=3]
[18:33] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13
[18:33] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 and gets 20."12 [1d20=7]
[18:33] <Alicia> OOOC: -4 to all those
[18:34] <Kotono> This time Marie finds her arrows ill aimed, missing the marilith entirely, whizzing into the jellywalls behind it! The second vrock screetches at that, retorting on Star as images appear around it!
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 1d4+3
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4+3 and gets 5."12 [1d4=2]
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 and gets 29."12 [1d20=13]
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 and gets 17."12 [1d20=1]
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 27."12 [1d20=13]
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 17."12 [1d20=3]
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 18."12 [1d20=4]
[18:34] <Kotono> It attacks in a flurry of feathers and pain, nothing taking even as spores lash out from it's body!
[18:34] <Kotono> roll 1d8
[18:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8 and gets 8."12 [1d8=8]
[18:36] <Kotono> From the holes more come! From just back in one you see it - a beautiful woman with a bats' wings, unclad and hypnotically attention getting. She holds a robed man on a chain, who bows his head and murmurs. "Get him, my pet!"
[18:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+5
[18:36] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+5 and gets 24."12 [1d20=19]
[18:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+4 succubus
[18:36] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+4 succubus and gets 13."12 [1d20=9]
[18:36] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robed man(24>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Vrock1>TM3(14)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Marilith 2(7)>Vrock 2(4)'
[18:37] <Kotono> The robed man looks up, his hood falling back. HIs mouth is empty of teeth, only cockroackes and bugs gushing out! In incomprehensible words he speaks towards Star!
[18:37] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[18:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 and gets 29."12 [1d20=11]
[18:38] <Kotono> A vast swarm of bugs surround Star, yet they vanish as each tries to touch her sanctified body! A moment later it happens again, this time at Hopiel!
[18:38] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[18:38] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 and gets 21."12 [1d20=3]
[18:39] <Kotono> Yet again, the fell magic is no match for the power of the heavens! Sandriel nods back to Alicia, before going down to aid Star, going right after the robed man with a charge!
[18:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 (-5 PA, +2 chargE)
[18:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 (-5 PA, +2 chargE) and gets 26."12 [1d20=6]
[18:39] <Kotono> roll 3d6+23
[18:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 3d6+23 and gets 36."12 [3d6=3, 6, 4]
[18:39] <Kotono> As he cuts into the man's side, bugs falling down from the gash in his body, "Purity of light, destroy these wicked creatures!"
[18:40] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 CL
[18:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 CL and gets 30."12 [1d20=13]
[18:40] <Kotono> roll 10d6
[18:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 35."12 [10d6=2, 2, 4, 4, 5, 2, 6, 2, 4, 4]
[18:40] <Kotono> roll 5d8
[18:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 and gets 26."12 [5d8=8, 3, 6, 6, 3]
[18:40] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15 succubus
[18:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 succubus and gets 27."12 [1d20=12]
[18:40] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12 robed
[18:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 robed and gets 29."12 [1d20=17]
[18:41] <Kotono> Both are burned by the sacred light, but both yet remain as the battle rages! OOC - Alicia.
[18:41] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[18:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 3."12 [1d4=3]
[18:41] <Kotono> OOC - Going to resolve the vines effect on your turn for the sake of easy bookkeeping in this big battle.
[18:41] <Alicia> OOC: can do, but didn't you skip over marilith 2? Is she holding?
[18:42] <Kotono> OOC - I'll just pretend she did, yes. She'll go now.
[18:42] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robed man(24>Sandriel(22)>Marilith 2(21)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Vrock1>TM3(14)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Vrock 2(4)'
[18:42] <Kotono> Stunned a moment by the onslaught, the marilith turns it's deadly attentions to Aym, trying to rip him limb from limb!
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 (-3 PA)
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 (-3 PA) and gets 37."12 [1d20=15]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 19."12 [1d20=2]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+12
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+12 and gets 28."12 [1d20=16]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 25."12 [1d20=18]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 (-3 PA)
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 (-3 PA) and gets 33."12 [1d20=11]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 (-3 PA)
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 (-3 PA) and gets 36."12 [1d20=14]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 (-3 PA)
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 (-3 PA) and gets 27."12 [1d20=5]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 (-3 PA)
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 (-3 PA) and gets 26."12 [1d20=4]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 (-3 PA)
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 (-3 PA) and gets 35."12 [1d20=13]
[18:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 (-3 PA) tail
[18:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 (-3 PA) tail and gets 28."12 [1d20=6]
[18:44] <Kotono> 18d6+108+4d6+7
[18:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 18d6+108+4d6+7 and gets 199."12 [18d6=6, 5, 2, 4, 2, 2, 2, 4, 6, 6, 5, 5, 6, 1, 6, 3, 3, 2][4d6=2, 6, 5, 1]
[18:46] <Kotono> Aym's body is torn apart! Half of his skull is torn away, his intenstines flicked aside by a pair of sword slashes! His body is nothing more than rotten meat, but he doesn't seem to notice! Even as most of his lifeblood exits his body in amazing gushes and trickles, he doesn't even pause against the marilith!  OOC - Alicia.
[18:47] <Alicia> "Gods! Someone heal Aym, quickly!" Alicia calls, conjuring up more mirror images as she moves to flank the demon and distract its attention away from him. "You might be new, but I won't deny your skill," she admits begrudgingly, hoping she can survive this herself.
[18:47] <Alicia> roll 1d4+4
[18:47] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4+4 and gets 6."12 [1d4=2]
[18:48] <Alicia> roll 1d20+25 -4 pa, smite, divine might
[18:48] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+25 -4 pa, smite, divine might and gets 34."12 [1d20=9]
[18:49] <Kotono> OOC - HIt.
[18:49] <Alicia> roll 3d6+30
[18:49] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+30 and gets 39."12 [3d6=3, 3, 3]
[18:49] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis
[18:49] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis and gets 1."12 [1d4=1]
[18:49] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[18:49] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 20."12 [1d20=6]
[18:49] <Kotono> OOC - -1, which 'saves' you.
[18:52] <Kotono> Teh blow seems to be too much! It rips into the marilith, who lets forth a terrifying scream of the uptmost fury! Meanwhile, Aym smiles like a predator with what remains of his lips as he attacks!
[18:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 (+2 flank, -4 PA)
[18:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 (+2 flank, -4 PA) and gets 28."12 [1d20=8]
[18:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 (+2 flank, -4 PA)
[18:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 (+2 flank, -4 PA) and gets 35."12 [1d20=15]
[18:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+15
[18:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+15 and gets 16."12 [1d20=1]
[18:52] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[18:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 19."12 [1d20=9]
[18:52] <Kotono> roll 1d8+17
[18:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+17 and gets 25."12 [1d8=8]
[18:54] <Kotono> The marilith's body is torn again, ripped into even as it resists his blade! Not that the marilith seems ot notice or care, really, screaming in fury instead! Meanwhile, the other one turns it's full attentions onto Hopiel!
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+24 (-1 PA)
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+24 (-1 PA) and gets 40."12 [1d20=16]
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 and gets 36."12 [1d20=17]
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 29."12 [1d20=15]
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 12."12 [1d20=3]
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+24
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+24 and gets 25."12 [1d20=1]
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+24
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+24 and gets 30."12 [1d20=6]
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+24
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+24 and gets 32."12 [1d20=8]
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+24
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+24 and gets 34."12 [1d20=10]
[18:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+24
[18:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+24 and gets 26."12 [1d20=2]
[18:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+24 TAIL SLAP
[18:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+24 TAIL SLAP and gets 42."12 [1d20=18]
[18:56] <Kotono> 8d6+40+4d6+10
[18:56] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 8d6+40+4d6+10 and gets 95."12 [8d6=1, 2, 6, 1, 3, 6, 4, 6][4d6=2, 2, 6, 6]
[18:58] <Kotono> Hopiel is maimed and battered, perfect visage torn apart viciously! Even as he is brought close to his end, the vrock on Alicia wheels and goes to doubleteam Star with the other vrock!
[18:58] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 +2 charge
[18:58] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 +2 charge and gets 19."12 [1d20=1]
[18:59] <Kotono> However, this assault is pointless and a failure, doing no harm at all to Star! The last twisted man goes for Star as well, charging her unflanked side!
[18:59] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 +2 charge
[18:59] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 +2 charge and gets 22."12 [1d20=6]
[19:00] <Kotono> Yet again, however, she stands unharmed! The succubus tosses her fire red hair back, laughing richly. "Oh, this is too good...but you." Her eyes narrow, "A little foolish human...and a wounded angel...oh, which to choose. Oh, both, that's right! I so love this plane!"
[19:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14 CL
[19:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 CL and gets 30."12 [1d20=16]
[19:01] <Kotono> A beam of green light arches out at the wounded Hopiel, a pale green light that is far too familiar to Alicia, having seen it thrown around several times already!
[19:01] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14 fort
[19:01] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 fort and gets 32."12 [1d20=18]
[19:02] <Kotono> roll 5d6
[19:02] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d6 and gets 15."12 [5d6=2, 4, 1, 4, 4]
[19:02] <Kotono> The beam buckles Hopiel's body, half of his left wing sagging and missing feathers! Meanwhile, Alicia...OOC - Will save.
[19:03] <Alicia> roll 1d20+24
[19:03] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+24 and gets 26."12 [1d20=2]
[19:04] <Kotono> Fortunately for Alicia, her superb protective will saves her mind from a horrible rotting miasma! Hopiel swears, disentangling from the Marilith, who swipes at him even as he flees!
[19:04] <Kotono> roll 1d20+24
[19:04] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+24  and gets 25."12 [1d20=1]
[19:05] <Kotono> However, the blow glances off his armor safely! He flies over near to Aym, and with a breathless word, "Light...HEAL!" Great restorations take over Aym and Hopiel, their wounds gone!
[19:06] <Kotono> Star, meanwhile, turns to the vrocks on her, and with a smile, two bursts of sacred power detonate around them!
[19:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[19:06] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 20."12 [1d20=3]
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 20."12 [1d20=3]
[19:06] <Kotono> roll 10d6
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 42."12 [10d6=1, 2, 2, 6, 6, 6, 2, 5, 6, 6]
[19:06] <Kotono> roll 10d6
[19:06] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 36."12 [10d6=5, 3, 5, 1, 2, 5, 3, 3, 4, 5]
[19:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:07] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 27."12 [1d20=17]
[19:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 20."12 [1d20=10]
[19:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 30."12 [1d20=20]
[19:07] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 18."12 [1d20=8]
[19:08] <Kotono> The two vrocks are rocked by the holy power, both burn and one blinded and dazed! OOC - Marie.
[19:09] <Alicia> Not wanting Alicia to look like Aym did a moment ago, Marie unleashes a full power barrage on the surrounded marilith, arrows and magic missiles flying out in a mass salvo of pain!
[19:09] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14 SR for MM
[19:10] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+14 SR for MM and gets 30."12 [1d20=16]
[19:10] <Alicia> roll 5d4+5
[19:10] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 5d4+5 and gets 11."12 [5d4=2, 1, 1, 1, 1]
[19:10] <Alicia> roll 1d20+19
[19:10] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+19 and gets 37."12 [1d20=18]
[19:10] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14
[19:10] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+14 and gets 27."12 [1d20=13]
[19:10] <Alicia> roll 1d20+9
[19:10] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+9 and gets 10."12 [1d20=1]
[19:10] <Kotono> OOC - one hit.
[19:10] <Alicia> roll 1d4+3+1d4 cold iron/good
[19:10] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4+3+1d4 cold iron/good and gets 6."12 [1d4=2][1d4=1]
[19:11] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[19:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 1."12 [1d4=1]
[19:11] <Kotono> The arrows and magic missiles have some impact, but not enough to take down the marilith in it's towering fury! The second vrock is blinded, blinding falling back and giving Star a chance to slice him open!
[19:11] <Kotono> roll 1d20+23
[19:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+23 and gets 36."12 [1d20=13]
[19:12] <Kotono> roll 3d6+13
[19:12] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 3d6+13 and gets 24."12 [3d6=3, 5, 3]
[19:13] <Kotono> Blind and wounded, the vrock's left leg is nearly severed! It weakly glides back against hte jelly, rubbing it's eyes in agony, screaming! The robed man giggles to himself, two swarms of bugs surround Star!
[19:13] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 CLs
[19:13] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 CLs
[19:13] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 CLs and gets 34."12 [1d20=16]
[19:13] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 CLs and gets 24."12 [1d20=6]
[19:14] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[19:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 26."12 [1d20=12]
[19:14] <Kotono> roll 15d6
[19:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 15d6 and gets 52."12 [15d6=1, 1, 5, 2, 3, 2, 5, 5, 3, 1, 3, 6, 6, 5, 4]
[19:14] <Kotono> roll 52/2
[19:14] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 52/2 and gets 26."12
[19:15] <Kotono> The bugs crawl all over Star, biting and chewing at her mercilessly! Sandriel meanwhile turns his attention to the situation, before a pair of holy smites engulf the enraged marilith as he glides backwards a bit, disengaging from anyone too close!
[19:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[19:15] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 30."12 [1d20=13]
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 28."12 [1d20=11]
[19:15] <Kotono> roll 10d6
[19:15] <Kotono> roll 10d6
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 42."12 [10d6=6, 1, 3, 4, 4, 2, 6, 5, 6, 5]
[19:15] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 43."12 [10d6=3, 1, 4, 5, 6, 4, 5, 3, 6, 6]
[19:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13
[19:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13
[19:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 and gets 29."12 [1d20=16]
[19:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 and gets 31."12 [1d20=18]
[19:16] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robed man(24>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Vrock1>TM3(14)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)>Vrock 2(4)'
[19:17] <Kotono> The two sacred bursts of power are enough! They do no harm to Alicia, but the marilith melts away, screaming in impotent rage all the while! "Alicia, can you help Star," Sandriel calls. "She's getting overwhelmed!"
[19:19] <Alicia> "I'll distract the whore and her friend!" Alicia calls back. "Aym, with me!" she then orders before hurling herself at the succubus to slash open her adorable tummy with magic guiding her blade!
[19:20] <Alicia> roll 1d20+30 -10 pa, divine might, true strike
[19:20] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+30 -10 pa, divine might, true strike and gets 33."12 [1d20=3]
[19:20] <Kotono> OOC - Hit, and make a will save.
[19:20] <Alicia> roll 1d20+24
[19:20] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+24 and gets 41."12 [1d20=17]
[19:20] <Alicia> roll 3d6+40
[19:20] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+40 and gets 51."12 [3d6=6, 2, 3]
[19:20] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis
[19:20] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis and gets 1."12 [1d4=1]
[19:22] <Kotono> Alicia skillfully cleaves into the body of the succubus, marring her incredible form! She looks at Alicia with a thinly disguised contempt, "What a plain little woman. What right do you have to be near me?" OOC - Aym and Marilith one and vrock 1 are up.
[19:22] <Alicia> "Belay that, go deal with the vrocks instead, Aym!" Alicia calls back, not wanting the berserker to be affected by that aura.
[19:23] <Kotono> Aym doesn't seem to notice or particularly care, but he does go for the vrock that seperated away from Star, charging it headlong!
[19:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 (+2 charge, -6 PA)
[19:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 (+2 charge, -6 PA) and gets 29."12 [1d20=11]
[19:23] <Kotono> roll 1d8+21
[19:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+21 and gets 28."12 [1d8=7]
[19:23] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robed man(24>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Marilith 1=Vrock1>TM3(14)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[19:24] <Alicia> "What right do you have to be on the battlefield you wanton harlot?" Alicia replies fiercely as she presses her assault. "This is no place for a glorified bedwarmer."
[19:25] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robed man(24>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)=Vrock1>TM3(14)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[19:25] <Kotono> The vrock's wounded form crumbles under this overwhelming sword blow, turned to dust and ash under one finishing strike! Meanwhile, the first marilith growls a moment, before vanishing away! The surviving vrock meanwhile tears into Star!
[19:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
[19:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 and gets 22."12 [1d20=6]
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 and gets 23."12 [1d20=7]
[19:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 32."12 [1d20=18]
[19:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[19:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 25."12 [1d20=11]
[19:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 and gets 25."12 [1d20=11]
[19:26] <Kotono> roll 1d8+3
[19:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d8+3 and gets 10."12 [1d8=7]
[19:26] <Kotono> roll 1d4 vines
[19:26] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 vines and gets 2."12 [1d4=2]
[19:27] <Kotono> STar is cut once by the creature, a stabbing, slashing bite that chomps into her! The spare twisted one ambles about, going for Alicia with a charge!
[19:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 charge
[19:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 charge and gets 21."12 [1d20=5]
[19:27] <Kotono> roll 1d2
[19:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d2 and gets 1."12 [1d2=1]
[19:27] <Alicia> OOC: if it lacks reach I'll AoO it
[19:27] <Kotono> OOC - Go for it.
[19:27] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 still have -10 pa from last attack
[19:27] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 still have -10 pa from last attack and gets 26."12 [1d20=16]
[19:27] <Kotono> OOc - Hit.
[19:28] <Alicia> roll 3d6+40
[19:28] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+40 and gets 50."12 [3d6=3, 2, 5]
[19:28] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis
[19:28] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis and gets 3."12 [1d4=3]
[19:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[19:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 19."12 [1d20=13]
[19:29] <Kotono> The blow nearly cuts the twisted being in half, sending what life remains into it into an instinctive fury, even as it's own blow fails to hit Alicia! The succubus laughs, words coming! "You are worthless! Nothing! You are nothing but my inferior! Bow to me!" OOC - Will save.
[19:29] <Alicia> OOC: absorbed if that's an SLA
[19:30] <Kotono> OOC: +9 spell levels then.
[19:31] <Alicia> "Hah! Do that again, it felt nice!" Alicia laughs mockingly as she absorbs the magic into her without harm.
[19:31] <Kotono> Even as her words seem to do nothing, she scowls, "You little stuck up bitch," she scowls, "Calling me a bedwarmer? Oh, fine, I'll show you what I feel!" Brazenly she reaches out to touch Alicia!
[19:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+16 touch AC
[19:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+16 touch AC and gets 23."12 [1d20=7]
[19:31] <Kotono> roll 1d2
[19:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d2 and gets 2."12 [1d2=2]
[19:31] <Alicia> OOC: 18, image 15
[19:32] <Kotono> OOC - Oh wait, you refreshed them. Sorry, strike that then.
[19:32] <Kotono> Even as her words seem to do nothing, she scowls, "You little stuck up bitch," she scowls, "Calling me a bedwarmer? Oh, fine, I'll show you what I feel!" Brazenly she snaps her fingers, as...
[19:32] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[19:32] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 100."12 [1d100=100]
[19:32] <Kotono> Nothing at all happens!
[19:33] <Alicia> "You feel pretty useless," Alicia opines honestly.
[19:33] <Kotono> Hopiel comes to join the battle, going to assault the vrock still on Star with a holy smite and a sword blow!
[19:33] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 CL
[19:33] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 CL and gets 36."12 [1d20=19]
[19:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 (+2 charge, -5 PA)
[19:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 (+2 charge, -5 PA) and gets 29."12 [1d20=9]
[19:34] <Kotono> roll 10d6
[19:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 42."12 [10d6=3, 2, 2, 5, 6, 5, 6, 3, 5, 5]
[19:34] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10
[19:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 and gets 30."12 [1d20=20]
[19:34] <Kotono> roll 3d6+23
[19:34] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 3d6+23 and gets 28."12 [3d6=3, 1, 1]
[19:34] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robed man(24>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)>TM3(14)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[19:35] <Kotono> Seemingly undeterred by the images the vrock called, Hopiel dispatches the vrock back to the Abyss that spawned it! Star takes a moment to murmur a few words, the vines falling from her body, before she goes to attend to the man thing that was nearly bisected by Alicia!
[19:35] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20
[19:35] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20  and gets 23."12 [1d20=3]
[19:35] <Kotono> roll 3d6+23
[19:35] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 3d6+23 and gets 39."12 [3d6=6, 6, 4]
[19:35] * Kotono changes topic to 'Robed man(24>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[19:36] <Kotono> It's dying cry is weak as it fizzles away, body destroyed and spirit plummeting into the endless ravine of chaotic evil! OOC -Marie. The slime continues to inch forward, but from out here you can see that the demons are being held at bay well enough at least.
[19:37] <Alicia> Since the hole Alicia carved is over a hundred feet wide Marie is hardly worried about it sealing them in at this rate. Angling for a better shot, she fires a salvo of arrows at the robed man, saving her cold iron ones since he seems more like a mortal freak of nature than a demon.
[19:37] <Alicia> roll 1d20+23
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+23 and gets 42."12 [1d20=19]
[19:37] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 and gets 21."12 [1d20=3]
[19:37] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13
[19:37] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 and gets 31."12 [1d20=18]
[19:37] <Alicia> OOC: any relevant DR or energy resistance?
[19:37] <Kotono> OOC - No, but two hits. Botched the middle one.
[19:38] <Alicia> roll 2d4+6+2d6+2d4
[19:38] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 2d4+6+2d6+2d4 and gets 22."12 [2d4=3, 4][2d6=1, 3][2d4=4, 1]
[19:38] * Kotono changes topic to 'Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[19:39] <Kotono> Marie fires true! The pair of arrows penetrate and kil the bug-creature-man, making it fall apart into useless bugs! However, at this, the entire fortress seems to shake! A horrible feeling of pure terror washes over everyone as it stands! It is as tall as a giant, cruel wings and flaming body seemingly composed of not matter...but pure hatred given flesh! A flaming whip is in one hand, a jagged sword of lighting in the other! A black aura flar
[19:39] <Kotono> roll 1d20+11
[19:39] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+11 and gets 29."12 [1d20=18]
[19:40] <Kotono> a jagged sword of lighting in the other! A black aura flares around it, and in it's inhuman, agonizing voice, "This shall go no further! Your lives end here forevermore!"
[19:40] * Kotono changes topic to 'Balor(29)>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[19:42] <Kotono> With a gesture of contempt, a great sea of fire engulfs Alicia, Hopiel, Star, Aym...and even the succubus, a massive storm of flames!
[19:42] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 CL
[19:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 CL and gets 23."12 [1d20=3]
[19:42] <Kotono> OOC - Ref save, Alicia and Aym.
[19:42] <Kotono> roll 20d6
[19:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 20d6  and gets 74."12 [20d6=4, 3, 4, 6, 1, 2, 3, 1, 6, 2, 1, 5, 6, 4, 6, 4, 3, 2, 5, 6]
[19:42] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18 remember holy aura gives SR 25
[19:42] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 remember holy aura gives SR 25 and gets 32."12 [1d20=14]
[19:42] <Kotono> OOC - You're off the hook then.
[19:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+6
[19:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+6 and gets 10."12 [1d20=4]
[19:43] <Kotono> While the flames only lick Aym, Alicia feeling safe and protected within her sphere of radiant holiness, Aym is burned horribly! A moment later...
[19:43] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[19:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 2."12 [1d4=2]
[19:44] <Kotono> A pair of hezrou appear at either side of the balor! In one word the balor speaks, carrying seeds of terror within it! "4Kill!"
[19:44] * Kotono changes topic to 'Balor(29=Hezrou x2>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)>Succubus(13)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[19:45] <Kotono> A four some of unholy blights fire - Alicia is caught in two herself!
[19:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 CLs
[19:45] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 CLs
[19:45] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 CLs and gets 19."12 [1d20=6]
[19:45] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 CLs and gets 31."12 [1d20=18]
[19:45] <Kotono> OOc - will save.
[19:46] <Alicia> roll 1d20+24
[19:46] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+24 and gets 29."12 [1d20=5]
[19:46] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 CLs for non Alicia ones
[19:46] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 CLs for non Alicia ones
[19:46] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 CLs for non Alicia ones and gets 23."12 [1d20=10]
[19:46] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 CLs for non Alicia ones and gets 24."12 [1d20=11]
[19:46] <Kotono> roll 5d8 halved for you
[19:46] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 5d8 halved for you and gets 25."12 [5d8=6, 6, 8, 1, 4]
[19:48] <Kotono> The unholy blights don'ts eem to penetrate the resistances of the angels so well, but it does Alicia stinging! Sandriel turns towards the balor, "You...creature of the Abyss, I shall have your head!" Righteous might surrounds Sandriel, making him nearly as large as the lord of the Abyss! OOC - Alicia.
[19:48] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 CL of Balor's true seeing vs Alicia.
[19:48] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 CL of Balor's true seeing vs Alicia. and gets 27."12 [1d20=7]
[19:50] * Alicia has to catch herself from staring at the balor for a moment before the unholy blight shocks her to her senses. "One thing at a time," she mutters, turning back to the malefic beauty before her. "I don't think you'll see how this ends," she commiserates before unleashing a flurry of strikes at her!
[19:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 divine might -5 power attack
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 divine might -5 power attack and gets 17."12 [1d20=2]
[19:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 divine might -5 power attack
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 divine might -5 power attack and gets 13."12 [1d20=3]
[19:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+30 divine might -5 power attack quickened true strike
[19:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+30 divine might -5 power attack quickened true strike and gets 42."12 [1d20=12]
[19:52] <Kotono> OOC - Last one hit. Rotten luck
[19:52] <Kotono> .
[19:52] <Alicia> roll 3d6+30
[19:52] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+30 and gets 41."12 [3d6=1, 4, 6]
[19:52] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis
[19:52] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis and gets 2."12 [1d4=2]
[19:52] * Kotono changes topic to 'Balor(29=Hezrou x2>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[19:55] <Kotono> With a cleaving blow, Alicia splist the succubus in twain! It vanishes away with nary a mocking word, defeated! OOC - Let's pick up here tomorrow with Aym's turn. I need a bit of time prework.

[Corwin]

[20:02] * Kotono changes topic to 'Balor(29=Hezrou x2>Sandriel(22)=Leonal>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[20:03] <Kotono> I'll have it have held and act before Aym.
[20:03] <Alicia> -------
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:50] * Alicia has to catch herself from staring at the balor for a moment before the unholy blight shocks her to her senses. "One thing at a time," she mutters, turning back to the malefic beauty before her. "I don't think you'll see how this ends," she commiserates before unleashing a flurry of strikes at her!
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+15 divine might -5 power attack
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+15 divine might -5 power attack and gets 17."12 [1d20=2]
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+10 divine might -5 power attack
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+10 divine might -5 power attack and gets 13."12 [1d20=3]
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+30 divine might -5 power attack quickened true strike
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+30 divine might -5 power attack quickened true strike and gets 42."12 [1d20=12]
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:52] <Kotono> OOC - Last one hit. Rotten luck
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:52] <Kotono> .
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:52] <Alicia> roll 3d6+30
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:52] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 3d6+30 and gets 41."12 [3d6=1, 4, 6]
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:52] <Alicia> roll 1d4 wis
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:52] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4 wis and gets 2."12 [1d4=2]
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:52] * Kotono changes topic to 'Balor(29=Hezrou x2>Sandriel(22)>Alicia(20)>Aym(17)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[20:03] <Alicia> [19:55] <Kotono> With a cleaving blow, Alicia splist the succubus in twain! It vanishes away with nary a mocking word, defeated! OOC - Let's pick up here tomorrow with Aym's turn. I need a bit of time prework.
[20:11] * Kotono changes topic to 'Balor(29=Hezrou x2>Sandriel(22)l>Alicia(20)>Leonal(18)>Aym(17)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[20:17] * Kotono (~dunefar@ip68-99-109-25.hr.hr.cox.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[20:18] * Kotono (~dunefar@ip68-99-109-25.hr.hr.cox.net) has joined #dunes
[20:18] * ChanServ sets mode: +qo Kotono Kotono
[20:24] <Kotono> The leonal, it's lion's visage noble even in the battle amid the blown apart walls of red jelly, charges the leftmost Hezrou, even as a fireball bursts amid all three evil outsiders!
[20:24] <Kotono> roll 10d6 fireball resolves first
[20:24] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 fireball resolves first and gets 39."12 [10d6=6, 2, 4, 2, 4, 6, 2, 5, 4, 4]
[20:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[20:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7
[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 16."12 [1d20=9]
[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 and gets 19."12 [1d20=12]
[20:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 Balor
[20:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 Balor and gets 38."12 [1d20=19]
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10 CL d'oh
[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 CL d'oh and gets 16."12 [1d20=6]
[20:27] <Kotono> The fireball shorts out even as the leonal closes in, the horrible stench of the hezrou wafting towards it1
[20:27] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13
[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 and gets 33."12 [1d20=20]
[20:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 claw
[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 claw and gets 23."12 [1d20=1]
[20:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 claw
[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 claw and gets 42."12 [1d20=20]
[20:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 claw crit?
[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 claw crit? and gets 24."12 [1d20=2]
[20:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 rake
[20:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22 rake
[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 rake and gets 34."12 [1d20=12]
[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 rake and gets 38."12 [1d20=16]
[20:28] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 bite
[20:28] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 bite and gets 35."12 [1d20=18]
[20:29] <Kotono> roll 2d8+16+1d8+8+1d8+8+1d8+4
[20:29] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d8+16+1d8+8+1d8+8+1d8+4 and gets 57."12 [2d8=4, 5][1d8=3][1d8=1][1d8=8]
[20:30] <Kotono> The hezrou is torn apart, ripped deeply into by the graceful fury of the leonic champion! A second later Aym is chasing after him, purusing to do the exact same thing!
[20:30] <Kotono> roll 1d20+14 fort
[20:30] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+14 fort and gets 20."12 [1d20=6]
[20:31] <Kotono> However, coming in closer, Aym is stopped! HE doubles over in agony, holding his stomach! OOC - Hopiel's up.
[20:31] <Kotono> "Then...return to the abyss that spawned you!" he points ahead, flying in! From his body, waves of rippling energy come forth!
[20:31] <Alicia> OOC: DC 20 will save or hezrous vanish!
[20:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[20:31] <Kotono> roll 1d20+9
[20:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 26."12 [1d20=17]
[20:31] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+9 and gets 11."12 [1d20=2]
[20:32] <Kotono> roll 1d20+10 the leonal is summoned too
[20:32] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+10 the leonal is summoned too and gets 27."12 [1d20=17]
[20:32] <Alicia> OOC: it does discriminate
[20:32] * Kotono changes topic to 'Balor(29)=Hezrou>Sandriel(22)l>Alicia(20)>Leonal(18)>Aym(17)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[20:32] <Kotono> OOC: Does it?
[20:33] <Kotono> However, the mildly wounded hezrou flickers and banishes away as the waves of energy come forth!
[20:33] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17 CL
[20:33] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 CL and gets 36."12 [1d20=19]
[20:36] <Kotono> The hezrou and the balor both seem to sag slightly, as if the vitality has been torn from them! Star turns towards them as well, soaring towards the hezrou! A word of power comes from her mouth, a word that seems to shake everything around the hezrou!
[20:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[20:36] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 33."12 [1d20=16]
[20:37] <Kotono> roll 1d5
[20:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d5 and gets 5."12 [1d5=5]
[20:37] <Kotono> OOC - STrike.
[20:37] <Kotono> roll 1d4
[20:37] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d4 and gets 1."12 [1d4=1]
[20:37] <Kotono> As she approaches carefully, her wounds heal away! OOC - Marie.
[20:38] <Alicia> Since the Balor is likely out of her league, Marie helps out by shooting at the remaining hezrou.
[20:38] <Alicia> roll 1d20+23
[20:38] <Kotono> The balor stays at it's fulll, terrible height and laughs! 4"This will make your murders all the richer! Show me how much power you have"
[20:38] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+23 and gets 27."12 [1d20=4]
[20:38] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18
[20:38] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 and gets 31."12 [1d20=13]
[20:38] <Alicia> roll 1d20+13
[20:38] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+13 and gets 19."12 [1d20=6]
[20:38] <Kotono> OOC - Two hits.
[20:38] <Alicia> roll 2d4+6+2d4 not rolling electricity
[20:38] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 2d4+6+2d4 not rolling electricity and gets 18."12 [2d4=2, 3][2d4=4, 3]
[20:40] <Kotono> The arrows mostly fly true...but Marie notices something! THe red, jelly like ooze of the walls is starting to surge forward! Almost abruptly it gushes, more than half closing the vast gap into the tower! OOC - Balor is up.
[20:41] <Kotono> Turning to gaze at Hopiel, a fearsome word of power comes from the Balor!
[20:41] <Kotono> roll d20+20
[20:41] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls d20+20 and gets 24."12 [d20=4]
[20:42] <Alicia> "Someone better do something about the gap, it's closing real fast!" Marie yells towards the melee, hoping someone is in a position to act on her advice.
[20:42] <Kotono> However, nothing happens! A moment later the lord of the abyss says another word, a word and blasphemy so horrid that it makes Alicia's stomach wrench within itself! Waves of arcane, dark power flow forth around Hopiel, Star, the leonal and Aym, even if Aym doesn't seem bothered!
[20:43] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 CL
[20:43] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 CL and gets 40."12 [1d20=20]
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 Hopiel
[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 Hopiel and gets 23."12 [1d20=10]
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+13 Star
[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+13 Star and gets 25."12 [1d20=12]
[20:44] <Kotono> roll 1d20+8
[20:44] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+8 and gets 15."12 [1d20=7]
[20:45] <Kotono> roll 2d6 str
[20:45] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 2d6 str and gets 4."12 [2d6=3, 1]
[20:45] <Kotono> roll 1d10
[20:45] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d10 and gets 3."12 [1d10=3]
[20:47] <Kotono> Of this, Hopiel and the leonal rear back, unmoving! Star resists the horrible, deadly power, standing true even amid such a forbidden word! Sandriel advances forward, blade engaging the balor even as his allies are stunned! "Alicia! The hole's sealing! Do you have another blast?"
[20:47] <Kotono> roll 1d20+29
[20:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+29 and gets 39."12 [1d20=10]
[20:47] <Kotono> roll 4d6+18
[20:47] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d6+18 and gets 32."12 [4d6=5, 5, 1, 3]
[20:49] <Kotono> HIs blade cuts into the balor, even as the two are face to face! The whip of the demon grazes by the angel's side, the two locking in deadly combat! As this happens, he reaches out to touch Hopiel, the angel beginning to move again!  OOC -  Alicia, you're up.
[20:51] <Alicia> "Yes, I'll re-open it in a second!" Alicia calls back as she moves to aid the melee, jinking around the combatants until she reaches the balor and lashes out, trying to knock his sword away and likely flying straight out of the fortress. Hopefully Marie can grab it before it becomes lost in the astral.
[20:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+51 +20 true strike +4 large +4 two handed +3 3rd level channel disarm
[20:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+51 +20 true strike +4 large +4 two handed +3 3rd level channel disarm and gets 55."12 [1d20=4]
[20:54] <Alicia> OOC: forgot, he gets an AoO, if it lands the disarm becomes moot
[20:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+33
[20:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+33 and gets 52."12 [1d20=19]
[20:54] <Kotono> roll 1d20+33 crit
[20:54] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+33 crit and gets 43."12 [1d20=10]
[20:55] <Kotono> OOC - How many images?
[20:55] <Alicia> OOC: 7
[20:55] <Kotono> roll 1d7
[20:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d7 and gets 3."12 [1d7=3]
[20:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+33 cleave
[20:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+33 cleave and gets 51."12 [1d20=18]
[20:55] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[20:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6 and gets 2."12 [1d6=2]
[20:56] <Kotono> OOC -3 for exhaustion, but it hardly matters.
[20:56] <Alicia> OOC: opposed roll go
[20:56] <Kotono> roll 1d20+30
[20:56] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+30 and gets 40."12 [1d20=10]
[20:58] <Kotono> The lightning-sword of the balor is knocked aside, Alicia's magic able to ensure it goes clattering away! The Leonal meanwhile does nothing, as Aym is also sick and vomiting, drifting backwards in a daze! OOC - Hopiel.
[20:59] <Kotono> Hopiel grows larger, righteous power gathering into him! He goes for the hezrou, blade lashing out at the stunned demon to the side!
[21:00] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 (-10 PA)
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 (-10 PA) and gets 37."12 [1d20=18]
[21:00] <Kotono> roll 4d6+36 ow
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 4d6+36 ow and gets 48."12 [4d6=6, 3, 1, 2]
[21:01] * Kotono changes topic to 'Balor(29)>Sandriel(22)l>Alicia(20)>Leonal(18)>Aym(17)>Hopiel(10)>Star(9)>Marie(8)'
[21:03] <Kotono> The hezrou is levelled, arm cut off and gigantic body crumbling into abyssal ashes! Star shudders after the blasphemy rocks her, a pair of holy smites striking the balor as she drifts a little back, "WEll done, Alicia!"
[21:03] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[21:03] <Kotono> roll 1d20+17
[21:03] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 35."12 [1d20=18]
[21:03] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+17 and gets 27."12 [1d20=10]
[21:03] <Kotono> roll 10d6
[21:03] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 10d6 and gets 37."12 [10d6=5, 5, 3, 6, 1, 5, 6, 1, 3, 2]
[21:03] <Kotono> roll 1d20+19 w ill
[21:03] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+19 w ill and gets 39."12 [1d20=20]
[21:05] <Kotono> The holy sm ites detonate around the balor, white beams of energy coming from the heaven sto pound the abyssal fiend! PYEt even then it stands solid, barely phased! OOC - Marie.
[21:06] <Alicia> OOC: how far is Marie from the balor's sword?
[21:07] <Kotono> OOC - It flew maybe twenty feet away, so sixty back or so? A Fair bit but she could reach it this round easily enough.
[21:08] <Alicia> Marie zips on over to where the Balor's sword fell, doing her best to grab its oversized hilt in her tiny grasp. She'll turn incorporeal along with it in a moment, and then the weight will be trivial.
[21:09] <Kotono> OOC - MAke a will save, Marie?
[21:09] <Alicia> roll 1d20+14 +2 vs evil
[21:09] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+14 +2 vs evil and gets 16."12 [1d20=2]
[21:11] <Kotono> The moment Marie touches the sword of the balor, her hands scream in the utmost agonies! It's like the lignting blade is alive, alive as she is! She can feel it's crackling electricity...or what one may think it is, but...all too late she can tell it is pure hatred, pure genocidal fury. IT blasts past her will and her protections like it isnothing, a thousand laughing demons heard in her mind as she is overwhelmed! OOC - more.
[21:11] <Kotono> a thousand laughing demons heard in her mind as she is overwhelmed! OOC - more.
[21:11] <Kotono> roll 1d6
[21:11] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d6 and gets 4."12 [1d6=4]
[21:11] <Kotono> OOC - 4 points of wisdom and charisma damage and Marie is stunned for 1 round.
[21:13] <Kotono> The balor draws itself high, another horrible word coming from it's mouth, another blasphemy rocking all around him!
[21:13] <Kotono> roll 1d20+20 CL
[21:13] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+20 CL and gets 29."12 [1d20=9]
[21:13] <Kotono> OOC - Moot on the leonal, t he angels resist it. Alicia, will?
[21:14] <Alicia> roll 1d20+24
[21:14] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+24 and gets 44."12 [1d20=20]
[21:16] <Kotono> Despite the word's pure concentration making her body sick, Alicia valiantly resists the terrible word of power that balor utters! A moment later it draws itself up, vanishing away! OOC - For a moment you guys have free action. Go ahead and state immediate actions.
[21:18] <Alicia> "Marie, forget about the sword, just get out of here!" Alicia yells at her familiar after wincing in sympathy at the pain felt through their empathic link. Flying over to the corner of the blasted out chamber so she has some room away from the others, she detonates another spellfire blast to create a second breach in the wall and tear apart more of the fortress's interior!
[21:19] <Alicia> roll 12d8 DC 24 reflex (with +2 for cover) for anyone on the other side of those walls (casting a third level slot on myself and absorbing it to power spellfire)
[21:19] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 12d8 DC 24 reflex (with +2 for cover) for anyone on the other side of those walls (casting a third level slot on myself and absorbing it to power spellfire) and gets 49."12 [12d8=6, 6, 4, 5, 3, 3, 2, 1, 7, 2, 8, 2]
[21:20] <Kotono> Hopiel shakes it's head, "THere are certainly reinforcements coming...we'll need a heavier blow to penetrate than this!" Flying towards Alicia and stopping by Marie to offer his hand to her if she needs it.
[21:21] <Kotono> The blast tears another hole in the wall, the silvery expanse of the Astral seen outside! Star flies to Alicia after the spellfire detonates, "LEt's go!"
[21:21] <Alicia> Marie is currently shaking like a leaf as she recovers from the horrible feeling of touching that weapon, unable to muster the wits to reply.
[21:21] <Kotono> Hopiel gently picks her up, putting his sword in it's sheath and carrying her. "Come, little one," he pats her gently.
[21:22] <Kotono> Sandriel lingers a moment, dark words said under his breath, "You're right...but if we can cut through the fortress walls like paper now, next time WILL claim a bigger victory." He stares at the red, jelly-glob walls inside, before flying in the newly opened hole.
[21:23] <Alicia> Marie manages to recover after that. "Wait, my bow..." she looks back to where she dropped it when she was overcome. "I'm okay, don't worry about me - I'll go back to sniping from outside where it's safe," she tries to smile although it comes off somewhat shakily.
[21:24] <Kotono> Hopiel drifts back there in a moment, grabbing the bow up with his other hand. "Talk later," he says, racing out then after! THus, the four escape outward, finding the outside area emptier than before. There's a large radius of no combat, the vrocks and other demons pushed well away from the target point.
[21:25] <Alicia> "Where are the demons?" Alicia looks around at the massive sphere of empty space that she disintegrated within the fortress, trying to see any sign of the occupants or even a hint of habitation.
[21:25] <Alicia> Well, it's more a half-sphere, but still. It's a big area.
[21:26] <Kotono> Looking back, Alicia can see that the immediate area is clear. However, in the secondary holes she blasted, she can glimpse far away demons, approaching and seen on the horizon. One type is easily familiar and see, bringing back memories Alicia would prefer to forget - Nalfeshnee, several of them.
[21:27] * Sierra_WorkhellThenSleep is now known as Sierra_NotAKoFangirl
[21:28] <Alicia> "There's reinforcements coming," Alicia points, now starting to appreciate just how vast the fortress really is. "How's everyone holding up?" In particular, has Aym ceased vomiting?
[21:29] <Kotono> Aym has finally joined the others outside, sagging and tired. "I survive," he says, drifting along to Alicia's side. "I'm not hurt," Sandriel says, "But our resources have been taxed. We'll go back, rest, and then use your spellfire to engineer a bigger, reinforced strike into the fortress. Since it's so effective, we can focus all of our power in breaking the lines within."
[21:30] <Alicia> "Alright," Alicia nods, willing to follow the strategy set by those in charge. "A shame we never slew the balor, but we still exacted a heavy toll while keeping all our forces intact. Lets return for now, then."
[21:32] <Kotono> Retreat back is well enough and simplistic. As you fly back towards the outer ring, you see that most of the battle is muted. There's a gap where you blasted in, with the demonic forces trying to compensate to close th ehole, but it seems to be enough to where the counter pressure by the celestials on the new weak spot simply complicates the problem. The battle looks exceedingly fluid, with more and more demons trying to hold the situation down
[21:33] <Kotono> with more and more demons trying to hold the situation down. As you do fly back, "Alicia, how much spellfire can you have at once?" Sandriel asks.
[21:35] <Kotono> Hopiel continues to hold Marielle, and jovally smiles, "Little one, that was brave of you to try and remove the balor's sword from it's reach. What happened?"
[21:35] <Alicia> "It works by absorbing magic cast at me - typically I use excess spells I have at the end of the day to keep myself topped up before going to bed, although if you have any magic that can be used at will that would be far more efficient," Alicia explains. "Effectively I can contain four ninth level spells worth of magic, or thirty six first level spells. I typically keep some empty though, since if I'm full I can't absorb any more."
[21:35] <Kotono> Aym is muted still, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. His sword is in his other hand, his flight just keeping up.
[21:36] <Kotono> "We'll want you to be loaded to capacity in that case," Sandriel pauses as you reach the edge of the outer ring. A lantern archon comes up, surveying the party. "I'll take us to the healer sas needed directly, archon. I'll be gathering for a new strike afte,r pass the word."
[21:36] <Alicia> "I thought it would make a neat trophy, since they normally get destroyed even if the balor dies," Marie admits. "But when I touched it it shocked me - I could feel it in my mind," she shudders. "Alicia has an intelligent weapon back home. It was like that but... well, bad."
[21:37] <Kotono> AFter that, "Two large holes where two prongs can rush in is what I'm thinking. We'll have a couple of our supporting healers come with you to refill you as you need, for as we open holes we'll be able to pressure more. If this succeeds we'll have broached the outer line and force the fight inside."
[21:39] <Kotono> "Yes, but Alicia's a worthy warrior as well. Using her purely as a seige engine isn't entirely optimal," Star points out, blindfolded face serene as she slows down, the ring reached.
[21:40] <Alicia> "I won't be able to fight much if I'm doing that," Alicia agrees, "Spellfire can lay waste to demonflesh just as easily as the walls of that fortress, so if any come to try and plug the gap I can still do that much, but it's not as effective as my sword unless a lot of them cluster together."
[21:40] <Kotono> Hopiel murmurs a few words, the damage in Marie's body vanishing. "Live and learn. You're right,  you're a good archer. "
[21:41] <Alicia> "Thanks," Marie smiles, perking up as she's healed. "I have some banishing arrows that I never had a chance to use, but they might be useful next time."
[21:42] <Kotono> "For now, go rest, all of you. I need to go gather and do tactical work," Sandriel says, "When you're recovered, have a lantern archon bring you to me."
[21:43] <Alicia> "If anyone needs healing I can at least do a little," Alicia offers. "I might as well use it now since it'll be refreshed after I pray, anyway."
[21:44] <Kotono> "I need it," Star says, as the group begins to break up. OOC - Want to pause here? We can resume after rest tomorrow.
[21:44] <Alicia> OOC: sure

[Corwin]

[15:58] <Kotono> ---
[16:00] <Kotono> Alicia's wounds are mended by a cheerful, perky young blonde elf. Thereafter she has time to go rest deep in the outer ring, meditating and recovering to refresh her spells in the Astral. Aym is content to hold now, brooding and rippling.
[16:01] <Kotono> OIOC - Gah.
[16:02] <Kotono> Alicia's wounds are mended by a cheerful, perky young blonde elf. Thereafter she has time to go rest deep in the outer ring, meditating and recovering to refresh her spells in the Astral. Aym is content to hold now, brooding and rippling. A lantern archon lingers nearby, waiting patiently and occasionally shrinking back from rather unhappy looks from Aym.
[16:04] <Alicia> Since she doesn't actually need to sleep here, Alicia is happy enough to converse while resting. "So, Aym, before I give my appraisal, I'm curious to hear your thoughts on the battle we just took part in," she invites, sitting cross-legged by a campfire she's set to mark the time.
[16:08] <Kotono> There's not much of a reply at first, wisps of smoke rising up from Alicia's campfire. The lantern archon stays close to it's warmth, though Aym barely pays it any mind. He does look at Alicia's radiant face more than anything, yet he doesn't say a word.
[16:14] <Alicia> "Nothing?" Alicia cocks her head, before shrugging. "Very well, here's what I think - in battle one must always play to their strengths. In your case its plain to see that getting close to a foe and hacking them apart is what you're good at, so you should indeed take any chance to do just that."
[16:14] <Alicia> "But! You should also be wary of playing to your enemy's strengths - there was no way you'd win a slugging match with a marilith. Even I'd doubt my chances in such a melee, and that's my own strongest suite. So..." she pauses a moment, regarding him seriously, "Did you simply not consider the situation, or do you truly wish to die?"
[16:19] <Kotono> Aym's gaze bores into Alicia, before he stands up. "You're right. I want to die." He draws his sword with a lethal smoothness, "Torm or 'true' Torm or what have you, no matter which I serve in the end, I want to die. My desire is combat and to throw myself into a furious rage. There's nothing purer...and this reminded me of it. You spoke of refinement and skill and discretion...and I don't care."
[16:20] <Alicia> roll 1d20+8 sense motive I don't suppose he's bluffing at all?
[16:20] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+8 sense motive I don't suppose he's bluffing at all? and gets 22."12 [1d20=14]
[16:24] <Alicia> "Then you'll die a meaningless death, and I will have no part in it," Alicia replies firmly, even as she despairs inside. "Give me my sword back," she holds out a hand expectantly.
[16:26] <Kotono> "No." He points the blade at Alicia, "I want you to kill me. You're so gorgeous and radiant that you made me believe that there might be another path for a few amazing days. There's no one better I could fight against. I want to die against someone worthy of killing me."
[16:27] <Kotono> "W-what?" The little lantern archon waiting by the fire sputters and shakes, like a lamp dropped to the floor, "Why are you two talking about killing now?"
[16:31] <Alicia> "It seems that I've failed," Alicia hangs her head for a moment before she works up the courage to stand, though she doesn't draw her own blade. "Is death truly all that you crave?"
[16:34] <Kotono> "I can't be like all the angels and perfect beings here," His sword goes on a sweep, cutting the Astral air easily. "All I am is rage...and does it truly matter what way it aims and cuts for? I could have cut down every demon in that room and then began cutting the angels down without pausing."
[16:37] <Alicia> "So say I do kill you, then what?" Alicia asks bluntly. "Do you expect to find peace? Your soul will just wing its way straight back to Torm, and be used to continue the same wretched cycle."
[16:38] <Kotono> With a twisting smile there, "I will still serve Torm then. No matter which Torm I serve...I will serve him."
[16:40] <Kotono> "Wait, slow down," The lantern archon splutters between Alicia and Aym, "Um, you're upset, so we shouldn't do anything rash!"
[16:47] <Alicia> "I'm not upset," Alicia shakes her head. "Just disappointed. More in myself than anything..." she looks upwards for a moment, although there are no heavens above here. "Letting you see combat so soon was a mistake, I can see that, now."
[16:47] <Alicia> She tries one last time to persuade him, "This is it, then? No interest in bettering yourself, becoming a true warrior? Even experiencing things beside violence and war? Just a mindless berserker to hurl himself on my blade and hope I finish the job this time?"
[16:54] <Kotono> "I can't be them," With a wave of his sword, the hosts a little off are referred to, mostly busy, none seemingly having quite caught wind of this yet, save for the little lantern archon. "I may have some of their blood flowing in my veins, but my soul is Torm's, now and forever. What you saw in me...was the illusionary glimpses of what was once was. Now, I am Aym, sworn to Torm! I can be nothing else. All the betterment, all the light you could
[16:54] <Kotono> I can be nothing else. All the betterment, all the light you could ever want is in them." (More)
[17:00] <Kotono> "So....finish with me and go back to your crusade." He finishes, looking ready to advance onto Alicia!
[17:05] * Alicia stands up with a heavy heart, glancing at Marie who was in the process of nocking an arrow. "No one interfere," she instructs firmly, not drawing her sword although her stance is one of readiness.
[17:06] <Kotono> The floating beachball between Alicia and Aym flutters, "You aren't really going to fight and spill each othe'rs blood, are you?"
[17:07] <Alicia> "I could banish him!" Marie volunteers, not having lowered her bow just yet.
[17:07] <Alicia> "That's only passing the problem elsewhere. Back off, the both of you," Alicia repeats her desire to have no interference.
[17:09] <Kotono> "Good," Aym says as the archon scoots back in a hurry, "Really, can't we just talk about this?" the little celestial adds. OOC - Let's go ahead and do initaitive here, I suppose?
[17:09] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5 A
[17:09] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 A and gets 16."12 [1d20=11]
[17:09] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7 M
[17:09] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 M and gets 17."12 [1d20=10]
[17:10] <Kotono> roll 1d20+2
[17:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+2 and gets 9."12 [1d20=7]
[17:10] <Kotono> roll 1d20 lanterna rchon in case it's relevant
[17:10] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20 lanterna rchon in case it's relevant and gets 6."12 [1d20=6]
[17:10] * Kotono changes topic to 'Marie>Alicia>Aym>Lantern Archon'
[17:10] <Kotono> OOC - Marie and then Alicia's up.
[17:10] <Alicia> Marie drifts back a bit to give the two room, keeping her bow ready but not aiming at anyone.
[17:10] <Alicia> OOC: how far away is he from me?
[17:11] <Kotono> OOC: Say 20 feet? You two were pretty close and talking and all.
[17:12] * CC is now known as Seira
[17:14] <Alicia> Surging forward over the campfire with speed that Aym likely wasn't expecting, Alicia lashes out with the knife-edge of her hand at the berserker's wrist, her other hand coming in quickly to grab the now freed sword away from him!
[17:14] <Alicia> roll 1d20+33 +20 true strike -4 unarmed
[17:14] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+33 +20 true strike -4 unarmed and gets 42."12 [1d20=9]
[17:15] <Alicia> OOC: disarm, opposed rolls
[17:16] <Kotono> roll 1d20+22
[17:16] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+22 and gets 41."12 [1d20=19]
[17:22] <Kotono> Swiftly Alicia closes in, knocking the blade away and grabbing it with her other hand! Aym growls from low in his throat at that, before tackling Alicia! OOC - Grapple times of joy. You'd normally get an AoO here, but I'm inclined to rule that you're not set to use the weapon you just grabbed until your turn.
[17:23] <Alicia> OOC: harsh, but okay. Touch AC 15
[17:23] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18
[17:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 and gets 32."12 [1d20=14]
[17:23] <Alicia> roll 1d20+32 to avoid grapple
[17:23] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+32 to avoid grapple and gets 37."12 [1d20=5]
[17:23] <Kotono> OOC - +12 base attack, excuse me. Though I think his touch is thes ame as his grapple anyway.
[17:25] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 opposed grapple fn times
[17:25] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 opposed grapple fn times and gets 37."12 [1d20=19]
[17:25] <Kotono> OOC - You win thanks to better modifier.
[17:26] <Kotono> Alicia manages to repel Aym, pushing him away from locking her in a crushing bear hug! At this the Lantern ARchon sighs, "That's right, disarm him!" OOC -Marie.
[17:26] <Alicia> Marie just watches for the moment, feeling rather awkward about the whole thing.
[17:28] <Kotono> OOC - 'licia.
[17:30] <Alicia> "You're fighting with more intelligence now," Alicia compliments as she avoids the grapple, before her tone turns harsh while the Sword of the Sealed Gate is brought into a guard position. "But it's not enough - you want me to sully my honour to satisfy your vanity, but it's not going to happen! You're not worth killing, Aymm."
[17:31] <Alicia> OOC: total defence
[17:35] <Kotono> Aym brings his hand up, diving at Alicia again once more! A roar comes from him this time, a roar of pure fury!
[17:35] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 ranged touch
[17:35] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 ranged touch and gets 33."12 [1d20=15]
[17:35] <Kotono> OOC: AoO if you like.
[17:36] <Alicia> OOC: i refrain
[17:36] <Kotono> roll 1d20+18 GRAPPLE
[17:36] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+18 GRAPPLE and gets 29."12 [1d20=11]
[17:37] <Alicia> roll 1d20+32
[17:37] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+32 and gets 41."12 [1d20=9]
[17:37] <Kotono> Once again Alicia forces him back, this time with more ease and aplomp!
[17:38] <Kotono> "You two should really stop this, it's immature and dangerous!" The lantern archon says, "Really, calm yourself!" OOC - Marie and then Alicia.
[17:38] <Alicia> "Alicia's pretty calm," Marie speaks up in Alicia's defence.
[17:40] <Alicia> "Give it up, Aym," Alicia tries to reason with him as she keeps her defence up. "Killing you like this would be an empty gesture."
[17:52] <Kotono> OOC - Diplo check here, say?
[17:52] <Alicia> roll 1d20+28
[17:52] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+28 and gets 37."12 [1d20=9]
[17:53] <Kotono> roll 1d20+7 +2 bonus by trying to talk him down
[17:53] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+7 +2 bonus by trying to talk him down and gets 23."12 [1d20=16]
[17:54] <Kotono> Somehow Alicia's words work. The raging man about to strike Alicia bear handed stops and sags. The fury seems to leave him, a momentary look of bitter despair coming over his face.
[17:57] <Kotono> OOC - Goa head and act, Alicia. He's not fighting you right now.
[17:58] * Alicia lowers her weapon. "This other way that you glimpsed, Aym - it's not an illusion," she tries to raise his spirits. "I told you that the path you must walk is a hard one, but I won't bloody my hands by helping you cheat it."
[18:03] <Kotono> Aym doesn't reply, turning his gaze away from Alicia. He turns towards the silvery emptiness of the Astral, looking ot that instead.
[18:06] <Alicia> "Sit down and rest," Alicia tells him, going to do that herself. She's honestly not even sure if what she did was the right thing just now, but she does know that she couldn't have brought herself to kill him.
[18:12] <Kotono> Aym doesn't reply, before without a word, he begins to move into the void.
[18:14] <Alicia> "Aym, stop!" Alicia stands up. "Don't give up, please!"
[18:15] <Alicia> "What can you do, Alicia?" Marie asks as she approaches her mistress. "He's not like Antenora. He doesn't want to change, and you can't intimidate someone who wants you to kill them."
[18:21] <Kotono> Aym doesn't reply - he just continues to head off into the silvery Astral that looms all around you.
[18:23] <Alicia> "I could still banish him," the eladrin adds as the planetouched fails to answer.
[18:26] <Alicia> "No," Alicia shakes her head dispiritedly. "What good would sending him back to Torm do? It's exactly the same as me killing him. At least like this there's a chance what I've tried to teach will eventually sink in... when he's ready."
[18:28] <Alicia> "Would you have let Antenora run off like this back when you first knew her?" Marie queries dubiously.
[18:30] * Alicia shakes her head. "It's not the same, though. Antenora begged to be given a chance after committing some truly heinous crimes. Aym hasn't actually done much, and I forced him to follow me. It's not the same at all."
[18:30] <Kotono> The little lantern archon has listened to all of that, "What's an Antenora...and was he..evil? He didn't sound like the mortals I know."
[18:31] <Alicia> "Antenora's an erinyes," Marie volunteers. "She used to be really bad but now she's really good." She then turns to Aym's retreating back, "I guess you can't win 'em all, though."
[18:32] <Alicia> "Aym follows Torm," Alicia tells the archon as if that explains everything. "I had wanted to show him a better way, but..." she shrugs sadly, "I can't help someone who doesn't want to be helped."
[18:33] <Kotono> "I see...maybe you should seek council with one of the angels? They're always so wise and seem to know just what to do?" The lantern archon suggests. "You'll feel better."
[18:37] <Alicia> "Mmmm... everyone's so busy, right now," Alicia looks over the seige camp uncertainly. "And I need to rest so I'm ready for the next assault."
[18:37] <Alicia> "Plus he stole the sheath for that sword," Marie comments, pointing at the sword of the sealed gate. "Where are you going to put it, now?"
[18:37] * Alicia gives her familiar a hooded glare. "I'll make do."
[18:39] <Kotono> "Alright..." Thel antern archon settles back down, voice light and airy, "Tell me when you're ready? Sir Sandriel waits."
[18:40] <Alicia> While Alicia does her best to meditate Marie decides to do a good deed on her behalf by trying to scrounge up a swordsheath or at least the materials to make one from somewhere within the camp.
[18:45] <Kotono> There's an area where basic supplies can be obtained on demand. Marie gets a sheath there without incident at all. The rest of the rest is restful and rest is put to rest with a fully restored set of spells. "Ready," The lantern archon asks. "I'll take you to Sir Sandriel."
[18:46] <Alicia> Since greater magic weapon lasts so long, Alicia doesn't even need to recast it on their weapons! "Lead on," she nods as she straightens up and stretches.
[19:03] <Kotono> Near the inner part of the outer ring, Sandriel awaits. Star and Hopiel are there, as well as a squad of Astral Deva, a fe glorious man-like creatures made of blue and shining like the sun, and several Shiradi. Sprinkled in amid these area  few mortals, stout and bright eyed. "Good, we are prepared," Sandriel says as Alicia approaches, "What of your cohort?"
[19:07] <Alicia> "He has chosen to depart, and I could not keep him," Alicia replies. "All I can do now is hope that he will make proper use of what little I had managed to teach."
[19:09] <Kotono> "I see. May the light reach him." After Sandriel bows his head a moment in respect, "Are you ready to absorb the magic you need for spellfire?"
[19:10] <Alicia> "Yes," Alicia nods. "Cast each spell one at a time, for I can only absorb so much at once, and it must be a spell that only targets me. Otherwise it matters little what you use."
[19:13] <Kotono> From there a barrage of prayers and incantations come, one measured after another. Alicia absorbs them all, nearly to bursting with Mystra's energy inside of her by the time it ends. Once this is done by the same blonde elf as yesterday and a reserved, wise looking old man, "We are going to blast a hole inside and penetrate deeply. Our priorities are clearing away opposition and protecting Alicia, for her spellfire is extremely potent in oblite
[19:13] <Kotono> for her spellfire is extremely potent in obliterating the walls of the demonic fortress."
[19:14] <Alicia> "After what she did in the last battle they'll probably be targetting her, so we'll have our work cut out!" Marie notes cheerily.
[19:15] <Alicia> "Yes... and you'll need to keep your distance when I'm detonating the spellfire, since it doesn't discriminate," Alicia warns. "Should I aim to affect a wide area on the exterior or push inwards to destroy the innards of the fortress?"
[19:16] <Kotono> "If we need to retreat, protect Alicia for she can easily open up escape routes! OTherwise, listen to your superiors as needed and be careful! For the light and to end this threat!" After that Sandriel comes to Alicia, "The first hole will need to be wide so we can overwhelm the initiatial front of demons. Later holes will likely be more focused, depending on how the battles proceed."
[19:18] <Alicia> "I'll use three blasts on the exterior then, since that'll give the assault force time to get inside before I go to take down more," Alicia agrees, casting shield and enlarge person on herself. "If anyone can make me invisible it'd lend more surprise to the initial blast," she then asks.
[19:26] <Kotono> With a chuckle, the young blonde elf comes over and does just that. "Here you go!" she singsongs. Sandriel nods, "We have the top floor more or less free of demons, we'lll approach and blast straight down."
[19:28] <Alicia> "From the top going down, got it," Alicia replies, not nodding since it'd be redundant. "I'll go get into position - it should be plainly obvious once I start." And so she flies up to the top of the fortress, while Marie stays with the assault force.
[19:43] <Kotono> The angels come with Alicia for a time , positioning well above, like a force about to thunder down. The 'top' of the tower is indeed barren, most of the outer battling around the middle layers right now.
[19:44] * Alicia tries to get an idea of the dimensions involved so she can better plan out her blast pattern.
[19:47] <Kotono> The top of the tower is massive. It's over a thousand feet circular, taking up most of the view below from her position. There's a ton of space for Alicia to work with.
[19:47] <Kotono> *fortress, blame Seira.
[19:49] <Alicia> That is big. Okay, intending to go for a triangular pattern, Alicia moves down to a spot about fifty feet from the centre, quick casts mirror image, and then explodes in a blinding nova of spellfire!
[19:49] <Alicia> roll 1d4+4 MI
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d4+4 MI and gets 7."12 [1d4=3]
[19:49] <Alicia> roll 12d8 DC 24 reflex half for any dudes beneath me
[19:49] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 12d8 DC 24 reflex half for any dudes beneath me and gets 59."12 [12d8=5, 8, 5, 3, 8, 6, 1, 7, 2, 5, 7, 2]
[19:49] <Kotono> OOc- How far down does it penetrate?
[19:50] <Alicia> OOC: 60 feet in all directions
[19:52] <Kotono> roll 13#1d20
[19:52] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 13#1d20 and gets 145."12 [13#1d20 = 20, 19, 5, 2, 15, 8, 5, 4, 8, 11, 19, 18, 11]
[19:56] <Kotono> As the blast of spell fire clear,s Alicia rubs her eyes away of the light. She can see a devastated group of demons below reeling, but a second later the host of the heavens comes down from above! "For the glory of the Light1" Sandriel can be heard, "Charge, decimate them!" As this happens, the blonde elf, the reserved old man and a single Astral Deva settle in near Alicia, keeping a loose screen around her.
[19:56] <Alicia> Marie hangs back, happy to provide fire support rather than get into the thick of things.
[19:58] * Alicia doesn't hang about, moving one hundred feet forward and ten feet down so she'll hopefully catch more of the fortress's innards with the next blast as she widens the breach!