DrK
   
    Age of Worms Part 8: The Prince of Redhand    
   
As the ancient ziggurat crumbles the heroes glance around as the vision fades. Many of the images lingering; the worm eaten dead rising from the grave the coming of Spawn of Kyuss; the great tree, ringed with thorns and with tiny fanged mouths instead of knots the physical manifestation of the demon lord Malgarius; The comet falling upon the earth likely the destruction of the fane of scales 2 years ago; the bloodied hand none other than the fabled Hand of Vecna and the City in the caldera the city of Cauldron near fabled Sasserine.

Even as the images and prophecies wash over you, you all realise that many of these have happened and that the coming of the Age of Worms is indeed destined! Maybe a few brave heroes can stem the tide and ward off the come apocalypse.

----

As dust and rubble and pour from the ceiling you all cast about looking for items of value. Scattered in the room are many impressive trinkets and work of art including a beautiful platinum tryptch of the ancient city you stand in (6000gp), a pitch pearl the size of Lan's clenched fist (2000gp) and a glorious carved golden statue of a dragon with jade eyes (3000gp).  The spell casters in the party can sense much of the magic flowing from the downed spellweaver, the magical items surviving even as the creatures body decays into dust allowing you to snatch them up. These include a 2ft long sceptre of alien green metal, the creature's long ragged shroud, a second rod tipped with a chromatic orb and its strange serpentlike mithril circlet.

 
 Spoiler: Loot 

Rod of Quicken metamgic (up to 6th level spells 3/day)
Cloak of resistance +5
Circlet of Charisma +6
Harrow Rod
 


Grabbing some valuable you all leap across a shadowy bridge called by Mirriana avoiding the now empty base filled with the dust and bones of countless worms. The clamber up the long spirals that spiralled around the vast hole in the earth seems easier now, the glowing green energy and negative oppressive energy now displaced. Reaching he surface you stagger out into bright jungle light, the sunlight and heat like a hammer after the horrific oppression of the ziggurat's depths.

Around you is a scene of devastation. The ancient black ring is shattered, rent in a dozen places and crumbled into dust. The long spires that towered above the pyramid are crumbled, the north face of the ziggurat littered with the shattered forked spire. The sense of evil pervading the ruins seems gone and in its place the jungle reclaims the land, stone crumbling and cracking with weeds even as you watch.

Zarina breathes heavily as more crumbling sounds and earthquakes presage more of the pyramid collapsing in on itself.  "I am glad we managed to get out.."  before she giggles with almost girl like glee,  "I'm sorry,"  she grins,  "I was just looking at us, what mess.."  and looking about you realise she is right. Blood stained, clothes and armour hanging off in tatters you look more like well armed vagrants than heroes and banishers of an ancient evil!
Gathering herself Zarina looks to MIrriana,  "Mirr, what do we now? The Age of Worms is real, the Ebon triad will presage it, how do we stop it?" 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Acererak grumbled inwardly as Merrick sifted through the remains of the ancient city. The creature proved disappointing - no means ascension here. They would simply have to destroy this Kyuss Himself and steal his divine spark.

 The Hand of Vecna however...  an ancient rival to the Devourer brought low by his own trusted lieutenant but rose to Godhood.  ...portents be damned. The Age of Acererak will soon 

Merrick paused, Zariina’s giggle breaking his reverie.

“ We will stop it. We will destroy Dragotha and his fell master. ”
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan sat back on his haunches when the spell weaver fell, and he watched impassively as Mirriana executed the creature.  The Halfling was more practical than some of the others, and would likely have at least interrogated the creature a bit more, but what was done was done.  The backlash of the extraterrestrial’s death had created other concerns, and Lan helped collect as much loot as they could find, then he burrowed upwards and out of the evil temple.

Topside, he said nothing as the group divvied the loot.  For now, he was more interested in getting back to civilization ... and riding the stench  of this foul jungle from his clothes.

 
 Some healing and ready to move on t 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 36/89; AC: 21 (33) FF/Touch: 16/16
F +12 (16) R +16 (13) W +8
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +18 Move Silently/Hide +20 Tumble +34 D Device +20
Spells (4/6/5/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1:  detect fav enemies , gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride, CLW x2
2: fell the greatest foes, fell the greatest foe,  invisibility , exacting shot, exacting shot, CMW
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap
4:  aspect of earth hunter ,  deeper darkvision 
Javelins (+21, 1d4+2 / +22, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker
Effects: Aspect of the Earth Hunter (70min); +10 Tumbling, detect favored enemies (w/in 60’; 70min); embrace the wild (30’ blindsense, +2 Spot/Listen; 70 min); deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours), Fire Resistance 30; Mass conviction (+4 morale bonus vs all saves; 120min); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

With the oppressive atmosphere of the Ziggurat below us I too feel a lightening of the mood. We do indeed look a sorry mess!

"I need a bath," I agree with Zarina. "Probably for a week. And preferably before Celeste sees us, or she'll worry. Does anyone have mending or prestidigitation prepared today? Never mind, it's probably better we get back with this news quickly."

I parcel out my remaining magic so that at least our wounds are fully healed.

"I don't know Zarina, but I'd like to talk to Manzorian about our findings as soon as possible. The Ebon Triad and the Hero of the pit gifting a city to the dead, maybe we were wrong about those. Or maybe we have to stop them again. Maybe we have to keep stopping them. Kyuss is going to run out of lieutenants to carry out his schemes eventually and he lost an important one today."

I look around my companions, battered but undefeated, and I smile warmly. I reach out to touch Merrick and Elkist on their shoulders.

"Come on everyone, let's get out of here."
DrK
There is a flicker of glistening lights for a second and then as the  teleport  lands you some 100 yards down the road from mage point. The sudden shift a dramatic change as the soft onshore breeze from the lake and the smell of baking and woodsmoke replace the humid heat and stench of the jungle. The village square is bustling with small stalls as it was when you first arrived a week or so ago.

The square slowly comes to a halt as they take the party in. Several of you with still shimmering active magics, Zarina and Elkist still glowing with luminescent armour. Their armour still tattered and blood splattered and rents in their clothes. As they land on the dusty road within sight of the strange crystal fortress on the lake a few folk wave hesitantly and then the door of the  All Seeing Eye  swings open and you see Celeste running out of the inn, her long limbs flying with incredible grace the sheer blue and silver silks leaving little to the imagination. She slides to a halt, an long embrace for Mirriana before she looks at you all,  "We had feared you dead. The Spire is so dangerous I was opposed to Manzorian's plan..."  

Taking you all in she shudders.  "I do not know what you have experienced, and I do not know what you have faced but I so glad you are alive."  As she says the last a hand grasps Mirriana's mailed gauntlet tightly.  "Come, rest. Eat, drink and wash and then you can tell Eligos, Manzorian and myself of what you have seen at the Spire." 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 
  ...now you'll need a wash too...   I send mischievously as Celeste pulls me close, kissing her on the cheek.

"It was... closer run than I'd have liked," I admit slightly reluctantly.

"But not quite so close I had to bind anyone's souls back into their bodies with magic, and all we leave behind us are ancient ruins and an over-eager jungle. We won a big victory today, my love! I'm eager to tell you and the others all about it."
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Before they departed, Lan returned to his or all shape, covered in charred burn marks and bruises.  He watched silently as Mirriana hugged the others, then turned to stare back at the expanse of the dead city.  He closed ranks when they prepared for the transportation spell.  Back in civilization, Lan’s perennial scowl returned as he withdrew further.   Whether Celete’s greeting bothered him, or there was something else, none could tell.  Turning to Goat, he practically growled,  ”I’m thirsty.  You can by me a drink.” 

Before he forgot, he mentioned to the others,  “Oh, and that part about offering up a city to the dead ... did we avoid that by winning the Belt? “ 

 
 Lan will have little to add.  He just wants to heal up.  He might consider buying a wand or some potions, too.  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95; AC: 21  FF/Touch: 16/16
F +12 R +16 W +9
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, deeper darkvision
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+22, 1d4+2 / +23, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"I thought we'd stopped Raknian gifting Grayhawk to Kyuss," I agree with Lan. "And that business with the Ebon Triad cults in the mine... But the prophecy was  so sure  that those things are yet to come!"

"Oh yes, we witnessed a dark prophecy. Not good," I explain to Celeste.

"So I'm not sure. But we should talk about this when we're all together, to save repetition. The sooner we've cleaned up the sooner we can start, if Manzorian and Eligos are free. We can take food and drink in the meeting."
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Tiring of his vestiges' mutterings, Merrick dismisses them, and he nearly collapses as the weight of the past day lands fully onto him.

" I feel we are being led from step to step, unwittingly fulfilling this prophecy as we hop from body to body. I for one hate being manipulated. "

He idly fingers the  Talisman of the Sphere  that rests heavily in his bag of holding...
DrK
Celeste stands by Mirriana's side, a hand resting on Mir's mailed shoulder.  "Come site down and drink, eat, you look exhausted and smell worse."  She adds the latter with a smile to take the sting out the mild insult. Leading you all into the bustling inn people leave a wide berth for you all and whispers of wonder and awe follow you as rumours of where you went and that you've survived slowly whiz around the room. The more magically aware (in magepoint that's quite a few!) stare in awe also at the pulsing magical auras emanating from the party.

As you are sat down she calls for servers to bring platters laden with hot spiced stews, thick crusty bread and mugs of forthy ale and pitches of magically chilled elven wine. Celeste looks to all of you.  "Manzorian is not here today, he will return tomorrow, but please tell me of the city of Kyuss and the fable Spire of Long Shadows?" 
 OOC

You can enjoy a night in the Inn and relax... then you can level up to the heady heights of level 15!!
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Merrick sat among his companions, idly thumbing through the naga Strugt's spellbooks. He had scanned for any detectable magic beforehand, but an almost nihilistic malaise had washed over him and he cared not for any traps that may have been present.

He could still hear Acererak raging in his mind. Clearly their bond today had favoured the demilich in their battle for control. Urges to take command and delve the depths of the Worm City for more secrets were difficult to overcome.

Now however, Zceryll was whispering his own unfathomable truths into Merrick's other proverbial ear. The Star Spawn was always a more amenable guest.

And now in return for periodic visits with reality, He gifted Merrick with the secrets of summoning farspawn creatures when even not bound to Zceryll.

Merrick delights in this new power, wondering to himself if he was losing his grip on reality. Muddy senses his Master's disquiet, but offers no comfort.

  Strange, I hear another voice...  
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

It's evening before Tal finally reaches the small village of Magepoint, described by Allustan. He takes human form -- no sense in alarming strangers -- though it leaves  him feeling badly exposed. So weak, so vulnerable. How do the others stand it?

  Is this finally the place?   he wonders.    You'll never find them. They have abandoned you. Go home and await the end of the world!   
  I'll know soon enough.   There is still a stir in the square, it seems, people speak of adventurers returning just a few hours ago.   This is hopeful  , Tal thinks, as he heads toward Inn. Reaching out with this thoughts, he "looks" for old friends. He is still several paces from the door when he feels them inside the Inn -- the familiar touch   Mir, and Zarina, and Lan, and Merrick!   (though Merrick feels decidedly strange to the touch,   I mean, stranger than normal, for Merrick  , something outsider-ish to him, or even beyond outsider    Some things will drive you mad, little doggy! Your friend is already giving in to the madness. Things mortals were not meant to know and even the gods shy away!   ).

The excitement is too much, as he calls out telepathically,    YOU'RE HERE!!!    as he hurries the last few feet to the door.
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I make a playfully pained expression in response to Celeste's mild insult. "Yes and yes, but perhaps I can do something about that last bit," I say as the rumours of our adventure begin to circulate the  Magepoint  clientelle.

"Hey, everyone!" I address the bar at large. "My friend and I are a bit tapped out today, so if anyone can help my friends and I out with a prestidigitation I'll buy drinks for your entire party!"

Hopefully with the party cleaned up a little, I eat hungrily whilst regaling Celeste and a growing crowd with the tale of our adventure in the southern jungles, only holding back the details of Kyuss and the visions which I'll confide later in private over a long hot bath. I'm nearly done when a familiar voice touches my mind.

"Tal!" I explain excitedly, jumping up to greet my oldest friend. "You came back!"
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan sat and eat quietly.  That is to say, he didn’t speak, but tore into his food with a gusto.  He wasn’t deliberately messy, noisy or wasteful; he ate with the air of a man thankful for his meal and uncertain when or where the next one will come.  Even as he ate, he maintained a watchful eye on the room.  His own back was to the nearest wall, and he constantly surveyed the entrances.  Once his plate was clean, he drank his ale in one long pull, then followed it with a mug of water.

The mental shout caught him mid gulp, forcing the halfling to his feet with one hand hovering over his wrist.  He started to glare at Merrick, but it didn’t feel like the cold, dank touch of the mage’s mind.  This one spoke of wild animalism and natural fury.  A moment after Mir shouted his name, Lan recognized their old companion and friend, Talisien.

Once the ‘man’ walked in, Lan sauntered over and looked him up and down before offering his hand.  ”Bout time you came back.  Probably should have stuck to more legs.” 

 
 If Fell makes it back, I might just faint ... 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95; AC: 21  FF/Touch: 16/16
F +12 R +16 W +9
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, deeper darkvision
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+22, 1d4+2 / +23, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear)
 
DrK
 Zarina 

Once bathed and changed into a spare set of plan, if well made, servant's clothes Zarina happily joined the others in the bustling common room of the Inn. The burns from acid and fire that had been force healed still left faint red patches on her pale skin and to those with a keen eye (mainly Mirriana and Lan) there was still a slight tremble to her hands as she tried to come to terms with the previous days events at the massive spire.

Still she was happy to sit with the others, drinking sparingly but eating hungrily and smiling at the compliments and adulation that the party were receiving from the rest of the Inn. Many of whom were trying to persuade one of you to spin the ballad of the Spire of Long Shadows to them so they could hear of what had transpired. THe crowd goes soon filling the ground flor of the Inn as they are wowed by Mirriana's descriptions of the things they had seen and faced. A few shouts from the crowd of "What else is there" "I'll go and see this broken ring me-self..."
She glances at Lan during the meal with a faint smile,  "Its nice to be somewhere safe,"  she murmurs, as she pats her waist and arms absent mindedly, both feeling strange without the weight of the metal dastana or a sword belt.  "What do you think will happen now?"  she asks the others, nodding to Celeste as well with a smile.

Celeste shrugs, answering first from where she is sat   "I am not sure. Certainly if you did not the trail of Bakalarde and have confirmed that Kyuss's comings are real then it is more pressing. I know my Master, and I suppose, your master, was in the Free City to consult the Council so will have news of what to do next. I had heard him speak of powerful sorceress named Lashona. She is said to reside in Alhaster and is a friend of Prince Zeech."    Her face twists in distaste as she mentions the oppressive city, the most stable of the Bandit Kingdoms.

 
 Spoiler: Alhaster Common Knowledge 

 

Alhaster is the largest and most prosperous city of the Bandit Kingdoms, a collection of warring city-states located in the devastated region on the north side of the Nyr Dyv. It had been a completely lawless place until it was taken over by a fallen paladin named Prince Zeech and his fallen angel cronies, about eighteen years ago, and now it is a shining beacon of order, safety, cleanliness, and oppression. It is also the major port city for a large swath of land, controlling everything that goes in or Bandit Kingdoms. It is under constant attack, but the insane despot Zeech has many powerful allies, including, it is rumored, a black dragon
 


Shrugging she looks at you,   "I would except if Master Manzorian has no more news of Bakalarde he may ask you to speak with Lashona. From what you have said of Kyuss, and the great red dragon that carried away part of the spire she may be well placed to help. I know of her works as a sage on the various aspects of dragon kind."  

--

Any further musings are interrupted as Talsien enters and Zarina leaps to her feet with the others.  "Master Talsien, it is wonderful to see you. We could have done with your help where we have been walking in the dark shadowy places of the realms. Come, sit and drink with us and tell us of what you've been doing." .
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Lashona... Friend of Zeech..." I muse. "Who was the woman who accompanied Zeech at the games? Was it her?" I ask.
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ If I recall correctly, Zeech was a guest of Raknian. I don’t believe we will be warmly received. ”

But infiltrating a city of blackguards and fallen angels seemed downright civilized after the previous day’s soujourn. Oppressive cultures always made for vibrant black markets if nothing else.

But that would wait for another day. It was time to study his newly won spell book and see if there was anything new he could craft for his companions.
Stegyre
 
 Originally Posted by Starbin 
 Once the ‘man’ walked in, Lan sauntered over and looked him up and down before offering his hand.  ”Bout time you came back.  Probably should have stuck to more legs.”  
 

   It feels so weak and vulnerable, friend Lan. I do not know how the rest of you can stand it.    Tal tries not to look around nervously, concerned that anyone who wants to could stick a knife in his vital organs, and he could not simply move them out of the way!

Remembering to use his words, he opens his mouth, "  H-hello. I-it is good to find you again!  "

He sits with the others, listening to word of their adventures in his absence, regretting he was not with them, grateful they somehow came through anyway.   Clearly, I am sorely needed. They have survived only by great luck! I must not leave them alone again.      You were utterly superfluous. They neither needed nor missed you. They have already learned to replace you.      I am super, yes! That is why they need me so much!   He briefly summarizes his own mission: sent by the pack elders to help a tribe of centaurs in the Bright Desert, only to discover they were being menaced by another branch of the Ebon Triad.    They had some useful tricks to teach, as well.   

He listens intently to Celeste.    So we will seek this Lashona in Alhaster?    It will be good to get out of town and back to four legs again. The way things should be. With his friends.
DrK
The evening passes peacefully, and, as the small community rises you find yourself in the private dining room on the second floor of the All Seeing Eye. Celeste has provided an impressive spread and fruits, breads, meat and cheese liberally cover the table along with a pair of steaming jugs, one with a local peppermint and liquorice root tea, the other other dark bitter kaf from far off Al Qaudim.

As you seat yourself Manzorian himself enters, the mage with thin bearded face and voluminous robes and settles down as the second man, your old friend Allustan (and Manzorian's student) arrives and help himself to a steaming mug of kaf and large icing covered pastry, pausing to greet Talsien warmly. Manzorian leans back in his chair pulling forth a plain wooden pipe from his robes before with a flick of his finger it lights with a puff of purple flames. Puffing slowly, a trio of smoke squares flying up and above your heads as he waves you to your seats.  "I am most concerned about these visions and these dark prophecies." 

A hand rubbing lined eyebrows he sighs heavily.  "Maybe this explains with information I was able to unearth continuing my research into that rogue Balakarde. I do not believe he ever went to the Spire. I know him, he would not have left such a creature in its state of undeath. Though I am impressed with your prowess in destroying such a threat and destroying the seat of Kyuss's power."  He takes a sip. " Balakarde is ever troublesome and I believe he journeyed east towards Alhaster, seeking a powerful witch and noblewoman named Lashonna. I believe he suspected that he she knew much of the rise of the Worm God..."  

Sighing he pauses and clarifies his words, a ruefule shake of the head suggestive of a long friendship with Balakarde.  "No. Balakarde is many things. Strange, eccentric, unpredictable but never evil. As for Lashonna, I am not sure. She is a Lady shrouded in mystery in the upper circles of Alhaster. She must also be a practitioner of some power as my divinations have not yielded much information. Would you be willing to head to Alhaster and see what you can find out about either this mysterious Lady Lashonna or Balakarde? 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan seemed to become a little more talkative with the arrival of Tal, which is to say he offered more than single word answers and grunts to the others.  To Zarina he shrugged at her comments of safety, glancing down at his pack nearby and the weapons he still wore.   ”Safety, like peace, is an illusion, Milady.  You only think you have it after your’ em fought and clawed for it.”   He paused for a moment, then gave her a faint, sheepish smile.   ”But I do appreciate the down moments ... especially when the company is nice.”   Did the halfling blush, or the as it just the warmth of the room and the kaf?

During the ‘debrief’ to Manzorian and Alluster, he only spoke to add any things the others might miss.  At the archmage’s question, he snorted aloud.   ”I think we’re beyond asking if we’ll go.  Real questions - how much time do we have?  Have the omens come true?  Who is making them happen?  I know we’ve stopped some and still they keep happening.

And do you have anything to help us?  We’re running pretty lean on resources for acting as your hatchet men ... or envoys.”  

 
 2200 doesn’t help with anything yet, so we’ll wait.  But if we get any gifts, Lan could use a Dex item.  Or something to increase my uses of travel domain.

Also, did the knowledge checks get any additional info?  I think I missed that post ... 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95; AC: 21  FF/Touch: 16/16
F +16 R +20 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, deeper darkvision
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+22, 1d4+2 / +23, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Thank you Celeste, the food is wonderful," I praise my partner with a kiss before focussing on the briefing.

"Well we haven't come this far to not pursue this to the end," I agree with Lan. "We'll go to Alhaster and see what we can learn from Lashonna. And if Raknian did flee to Alhaster to take refuge with Zeech it might be worth checking on him as well. Alhaster is a city and he's the only champion of the pit we know with a desire to gift a city to the dead."
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ The problem with fighting a prophecy is wondering if every choice we make further serves its coming to pass, ” Merrick says.

“ If we destroy enough of Kyuss’s followers, then there’ll be no one left to usher in the Age. Let’s go and meet Lashonna, and continue with our standard policy  vis  undead worm worshipers. ”
DrK
Manzorian looks at Lan with a wan smile.  "Surely you are happy to prevent a Kyuss related apocalypse. But if there are some things you would need than please ask. I shall see what we have here in Magepoint if things can be of assistance".  Looking back up at the others he asks a few questions of a servant who then returns with a much worn map of the city of Alhaster, the one of the capital cities of the Bandit Kingdoms.

 "As I said"  Manzorian continues, with a nod from Allustan,  "Alhasters is the seat of Prince Zeech. He is the Prince of Redhand, but owes much of his power to the church of Hextor and the Hextorites are the dominant force within the city."  He pauses looking at the three woman opposite him (Zarina, Mirriana and Elkist).  "It may be wise to hide some your affiliations in the city to avoid undue attention. It is strange though, the Grand Project, the massive ziggurat that he has been constructing now for some years. the beginning of this have happened around the same time that first rumours of the Ebon Triad surface near Diamond Lake and that Marzena began to have her troubles on the border forts. " 
 
 It is interesting though. Balakarde has had many thoughts on the rise of Kyuss' powers, some that we are concerned with as well. He thought there may be a connection with the Cult of the Ebon Triad, the heretics that you faced under the mines under Diamond Lake who seek to combine HExtor, Vencan and Erythnul into an all powerful Overgod. Certainly if the rumours have been true there have been near weekly executions in Alhaster of Ebon Triad Cultits accused of heresy to Hextor" 

As he pauses Allustan picks up the story.  "Since you saved me and I retreated here I have been going through research on Kyuss. Certainly a demi-god of ancient power he has many followers. But with the stories you have told me of the visions in the Spire it seems that you have connected two of them. The red dragon you saw I suspect was Dragotha. A name now synonymous with death. It seems that this undead Drgaon may be one of the Worm God's most powerful allies/followers.  I and Celeste,"    he offers with a nod at the beautiful mage now sat by Mirriana, a hand resting on Mirriana's arm smiles back,  "Have done much research. The most useful was an ancient tome, one called the " History of Alhaster  written some 20 years ago by a cleric named Rhorsk. Only 2 years before Prince Zeech seized power."

"In the book Rhorsk speaks of a power struggle within the Cult of Hextor between the main body of the church and a cabal of Hextorian heretics who, if the books is to be believed, were perverting the faith and mingling it with "lesser" faiths to try and achieve some of of ascension of Hextor above the gods."     He pauses or a sip  of wine and to blow a wide smoke ring from his pipe and Celeste continues

 "Rhorsk wrote that Zeech and the church shattered the cultists power. He had the aid of a black dragon and a powerful elven mage named Lashonna..."  she winks at the party,  "Not a coincidence I feel that this Lashonna should be sought by Balakarde and that you may have faced this Dragon in revenge for interfering with Raknian's plot. Many things point to a confluence of events with Alhaster and all involved in the coming darkness."  

As they finish Manzorian orders more food and looks down at the map.  "If you wish I can transport you the road near Alhaster whenever you are ready. But I would not tarry for too long. I can feel something nagging at me and something bad is happening. Let me know if you wish any supplies or equipment for your trip to Alhaster." 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina at ease wit hthe others looks to the mages and nods solemnly.  "I will do what I can. When the others are rested I believe I will be ready to travel. I agree that there is not much time waste, although,"  she says, a hand stroking the medallion of Heronious around her neck.  "I am not happy about having to go undercover into this oppressed den of trouble." 

Looking at Mirriana for agreement she waits to see what the cleric has to say. But is clearly ready to go

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125/125 +24
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Greater Luminous Armour (-4 to hit, +12AC)  24 hours
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour
Heart of Air  (+10ft Jump) 12 hours

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +3 dex+2 dodge = 35

 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
"If we're going investigating in a hostile city I'd like to make a few modifications to my armor to make it less obvious," I reply, self-consciously touching the chain of my original holy symbol still hanging from my neck, since augmented with an amulet of Natural Armour.

"At least Alhaster should be a less abominable destination than Kuluth-Mar," I say to Zarina by way of encouragement.

"I require two days to fully replenish our Spellcasting potential with Mnemonic Enhancer and Confer Spell Ability. The armour modifications may take two to four days, if Merrick can work on both items at once. If I could impose on you for a Belt of Giant Strength and a Vest of Health that would be much appreciated. Once those preparations are done I'll be ready to leave immediately, if the others are."

 We never have long enough , I think resignedly to Celeste, giving her hand a subtle squeeze.
DrK
The two days pass quickly! Zarina and Merrick spend much of their time in the study of the Inn poring over magical scrolls and books or magical lore as they seek new and interesting arcane power. Lan is free to relax and enjoy fine food and wine as is Elkist and Talsien. Mirriana spends most her free time in seclusion with Celeste, as the latter shows her the town of Magepoint, boats in the shimmering lake and walk around the nicely forested slopes that house several quaint cottages and small holdings belonging to retired adventurers, some with a variety of highly exotic plants or animals....

In the morning of the next day there is a knock on the study door as Allustan enters bearing a great package floating on a tenser's disc behind him. He sees Merrick and smiles.  "Master Merrick, one who has truly mastered the arcane arts now..."  his oice sounds wistful as you realise that all of you have now eclipsed the mage of Diamond Lake that once seemed so powerful to you.  As he pulls off the cover you see the now silvered and polished skull of Ilthane the Black!  "An impressive bauble Merrick. It would look good on a house in the village if you would retire here..." 
Shortly after the mad anima mage incants and is able to draw forth shadows of Ilthane's soul, the dragon hissing and and snarling angrily. WIth the skull old and encased in metal its hard to wring sense from the beast but you do manage to pull forth that she had a brood, a brood that will still be in her lair and the impression of swamps and graves that you realise may be in the "Traitor's Graves" the swamp and disease ridden graveyard in the bogs at the mouth of the Eel river (#39).

---

As the third morning dawns you assemble in the village square, each rested and ready for war, armour and clothes laundered and cleaned, crowns, diadems, amulets and magical weapons gleaming in the morning light as your are met by the  imposing and serious looking Manzorian.  "Blessings of Mystara and the whole pantheon upon you. Eligos has felt the Gods trembling at the what is coming so its imperative you can seek out Lashonna and find of what she knows"   He waves a hand and a swirling portal opens before you and you can all the city ahead of you. The walls high and pointed and a huge ziggurat in view dominating the skyline. Even from here you can see the "winged maidens", devils, flitting above the walls and every 50 paces or so ion cages hang from the walls, some occupied, some not by the unfortunate who break the rules of the Prince of Redhand!

 

With the road a few miles awya its an easy walk down the slope to join the queue of slow moving carts and wandering merchants and farmers heading towards the well guarded gates....
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Having coaxed as much he can from the dragon, Merrick casts the  shrink item  scroll and stuffs it in his  Bag of Holding .

" More of the foul beasts to join their mother in Gehenna, " he muses. Forewarned, he sets about preparing his spells for the journey.

After a few hours of rest and research, he readies his summoning circles to bind his vestiges for the day. Moving to city ruled by evil and enforced by devils, Acererak and Zceryll would not serve his needs. Whispering an apology to his boon companions, he begins his rituals...

" Astaroth! Great Teacher of Man, O Prideful One! I demand you make you knowledge mine! Steal fire from the Gods and gift it unto me! "

 
 Spoiler: Binding Check 1 
 (1d20+17)[ 30 ] 
 


A foul, unwashed sdour emits from Merrick's yellowing skin, but it is a small price to pay for the secrets of this most proud of angels...

First ritual completed, he steps out into the town proper and draws a new circle in a secluded urban greenspace. He frees his mind for the next battle of wills.

" Buer! Grandmother Huntress !!  Favour me now..! 
 
 Spoiler: Binding Check 2 
 (1d20+17)[ 21 ] 
 


Merrick's boots slip off his now-cloven hooves. Her rather... goatish aroma inspires him further. Using his  shapesand,  he fashions a headdress resembling a pair of ram's horns to complete the satyrish theme.
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

A break from the hectic pace of adventuring feels good for the soul, even if it's just for a few days. Rested and relaxed and garbed in far more comfortable clothes than usual (my armour and shield with their new calling enchantments stashed safely in my Haversack), I'm in a better mood than I can remember as we gather in the village square in the morning sun. My Sacred Auran longsword still hangs at my belt, but it's so finely crafted it almost looks ornamental.

"Yes, we should definitely drop by Ilthane's brood whilst we're in Alhaster to make sure none of them cause trouble in future," I agree with Merrick. "But I don't think that's our top priority. Maybe if we have some spare time whilst we're there."

I thank Manzorian and Allustan for their aid, and kiss Celeste a quick peck of farewell and a squeeze of her hand.  Love you! Stay out of trouble while I'm gone!  I send affectionately, fully aware she can take care of herself.

With farewells done, I pass through the portal and begin the walk to the city.

"At least with horns and hoofs you ought to fit right in," I comment to Merrick along the way.
redzimmer
 Merrick 

" My thoughts exactly. Devilish authorities may be more amenable to a tiefling scholar than to steel-clad champions of goodness. "

Upon arrival, Merrick begins to reconnoiter the city subtly (or what he hopes is subtle; in his months since being incercerated by the shifters in the Free City he has forgotten how the common people interact).

 
 Spoiler: Rolls of Lore and Legend 
Bardic Knowledge from Astaroth - What do we know of the environs and Zeech itself?
 (1d20+19)[ 26 ] 
Gather Information:
Have old enemies arrived here?  (1d20+4)[ 6 ] 
Is there any indication anyone expects us?  (1d20+4)[ 10 ] 
Who and where is Lashonna?  (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Whither Traitor's Grave?  (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
 


It seems his efforts alienate the locals. Perhaps the smell..?
Stegyre
 Taliesn  tags along with Merrick —   Best to make sure the squishy ones don’t get into any trouble.   At the rate the wizard is transforming, any day now, Tal expects him to start going around on all fours, like decent folk.

 
 Spoiler 
Tal has no skills to contribute and prefers keeping “silent” around these potentially-hostile strangers. Thanks to his Incarnate levels, he does carry a good aura, which won’t endear him to the natives with detection abilities.
 
DrK
Alhaster is the largest and most prosperous city of the Bandit Kingdoms, a collection of warring city-states located in the devastated region on the north side of the Nyr Dyv. It had been a completely lawless place until it was taken over by a fallen paladin named Prince Zeech and his fallen angel cronies, about eighteen years ago, and now it is a shining beacon of order, safety, cleanliness, and oppression. It is also the major port city for a large swath of land, controlling everything that goes in or Bandit Kingdoms. It is under constant attack, but the insane despot Zeech has many powerful allies, including, it is rumored, a black dragon

 

Alhaster can be roughly separated into two key districts: High Alhaster and Low Alhaster. Low Alhaster comprises the bulk of the town, and includes areas 1-18. High Alhaster consists of the western third of the town and encompasses areas 19-39. Areas 35-39, the Shanties and Eel Town lie outside of the town walls, but are still considered to be part of the town itself.  Southeast of the town sits an expansive tidal flat on which rows and rows of ramshackle houses have been built. This region is known as the Shanties. The roads that wind through this region are poorly-cobbled pathways that run along the tops of low ridges; during high tide, the areas between these roads (and under teh buildings themselves, wich rest on soggy wooden pilings) become churning tide pools. On the highest tides or during storms, the roads themselves are often submerged, and many of hte lesser buildings wash away only to be replaced in the following months by new hovels. Those who dwell in the shanties are the lowest of the low in Alhaster -- neither the Watchers or the Blessed Angels pay much attention to this forgotten slum, making it an excellent place to run from the law.

A second region outside of Alhaster's city walls resides to the north: Eel Town, a small collection of shops, fishermen's hovels, and shipyards. It is here that the majority of Alhaster's shipbuilding occurs. Statues of Prince Zeech typify all parts of the town. There are hundreds of them -- Zeech shielding his eyes as he looks heroically to the east, Zeech astride a black charger killing a dragon wiht a lance, Zeech held aloft by an army of grateful workers -- the poses are different for each statue, and each is kept in immaculate shape. Even the thousands of crows that infest the city seem to understand this and avoid the statues.

-------

Walking up to the road the nearest merchant wagons slow to a stop. Clearly intending to leave you a clear space on the road to not be associated with people like yourselves. The driver gives a neat bow and wave as he lets you walk on. Closing on the city walls the black stone walls loom above you, the stench of a city string in your noses as the sound of masses of people beyond loud. The roar of the arena and toiling of temple bells competing with the drone of the streets.

Joining the gate queue you soon reach the gate house. A dozen veteran hobgoblins and armoured humans administering the gate, the portcullis and clearly well used murder holes high above you. THey eye you all with a great deal of suspicion as you approach taking note of the holy symbols of Heronious on Elkist and Zarina with a faint seer on each of their faces.

 Adventurers eh?   sneers the guard taking in the jewels, belts and various arms and armour and glowing spells.  Zeech says your kind disturb the peace. You pay 200gp peace bond. You cause no troubkebyou get get half back when you leave .  

(Assuming you pay) Entering the city you are funnelled down the main boulevard. Grim grey stone buildings dominate, a miasma of general malaise and depression seems to hang within the city like a bruise, despite the banners and performers crowding the streets. All seem surly, glancing around the patrolling guards and the harpies the "angels" that patrol the skies and nest on the sides of the great ziggurat on the edge of the cliffs. As each of the fiendish harpies fly overhea you can feel their hate radiating towards the three woman and Talsien

As you are funnelled through the packed streets you can hear a swirl of rumours within the crowd. "A dragon's hoard lies under traitor's grove if you can best the undead aye to get it..." Lady Lashona is going to the ball. She's the only one Z eech respects, her being power here for a century now!"Dammed Priest of Kord, he's a bugger aye! Threatening to disrupt our great Prince Zeech's feast." "Ebon Triad... nah. Mad priest in the Church of Deliverance vanished looking for that. But some say the dragon had 3 heads in the Traitors grove.." . "Zeech's feast to mark his 20 years. Whole city being celebrating eh. Can't wait to hear the tales of the feast. The Prince knows how to throw a party."

Merrick gets fewer looks (bar those reserved for someone who recognise a mage of some power) but although he knows of much of the lore about the city (mentioned above)  he doesn't know many other specifics.
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Astaroth reveled in the sights and smells of the city, oppressive as they both were. Buer meanwhile recoiled in horror at the dirty, infectious squalor. As Merrick approached the gates, he grudgingly parted with the 200 gp bond.

 Given our track record,  he muses toward Tal,  I doubt we will ever see that again. 

Once within the city proper, whispers from Fallen Astaroth clued Merrick intuitively on the state of Alhaster.

Unfortunately, his attempts at gleaner better and more specific information was less successful.

Met with stares, hurriedly ended conversations, and a general feeling of unwelcomeness, Merrick eventually gave up.

" So much for subtlety. Should we draw attention to ourselves? "
Ghostfoot
 Elkist 

Elkist has a barely-concealed sneer on her face as the group approach the city, the righteousness of her faith and self-confidence manifesting strangely through her drow heritage.

Not one to hide away, she strides with surety as everyone makes their way through the packed streets.  "A charming place". 
Stegyre
 Tal 
   Do you suppose "mounts" need to pay that peace bond?    Tal muses to the others,    I don't see them charging any of the horses.    He growls softly at the guard.    This place really stinks!    The scent of evil, the strange, sickeningly-twisted thought patterns of the lower-plane outsiders. Surely even those without heightened senses can feel this? Tal wonders. His fur bristles his discomfort, and he hopes the others can, indeed, pass it off as a snappish mount. As they move through the crowds, he scans them for anyone who is not as they seem -- devils flying through the air are not as dangerous as those on the ground pretending to be ordinary people, he reasons.   It's not the obvious threats but the hidden ones . . .      Hahaha! Sniff all you like, dog! Nothing in forests, deserts, or dungeons has prepared you for the political machinations of a city like this. Those who will smile in your face and plot your downfall in backroom you will never see, who wield their knives through the hands of others. You'll never even see it coming!       Hmpf!    Tal shakes his head angrily at the confusing thoughts.

   Perhaps this feast?    he asks of the others, keeping their main mission in mind.   Though this Traitor's Grove sounds far more comforting   -- the sort of place he and old friend GoatTracker might go to have a good time tearing up and smashing things, he thinks wistfully, wondering if he might ever see the giant man again.
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I wince slightly, parting with a significant portion of my purse, but I don't wish to make a fuss. Taking in the sights and sounds, the ziggurat in particular draws my attention.  Where have we seen Ziggurats before?  I think facetiously at Merrick.

"We should maybe seek out the priests of Kord," I suggest. If anyone in this town is going to be friendly it'll be them. We need to get a lay of the place, who else might be allies, how to ask about Lashonna without drawing attention to ourselves, that sort of thing."
DrK
You move through the busy streets of the town, everywhere you walk you draw gazes, some interested some hostile from the residents of the strange bandit city. Pushing through packed markets you can see all manner of strange things for sale, and evidence of the savage law underneath. Gibbets decorate each market square, mostly full and you see one of them "live" as you see three haggard battered and bloody looking criminals in long sack cloth robes. As they are herded onto the platform you see a priest of Hextor (reminiscent of the one you fought what seemed so long ago under the mines in Diamond Lake), the priest announces  their crimes loudly -  "In the name of the Iron Lord these scum have been found guilty of heresy. Worshipping the Ebon Triad they would corrupt the teachings of Hextor. For their crimes their is only one sentence!"  As he ends the sentence the executioner (complete with black hood) pulls the level opening the trapdoor and the 3 men choke unhappily on the nooses, their last sounds the enthusiastic cheering of the crowd.

Zarina shakes her head saldy, before glancing at the others,   Its interesting that the Ebon Triad is hated here almost as much by them as us. There must be a schism in the church. Lets us hope they choke upon it."   She adds the last clutching her holy symbol to ward off the evil.

Continuing on you can soon hear the grunting of fighting and wrestling and the heavy thudding of sparring as you approach the Temple of Kord. The Temple appears a cross between a large church or a gladiatorial arena and is filled with half naked oiled and bearded men wrestling or  sparring with heavy wooden staffs and clubs under the watchful gaze of a bearded fat high priest, one of his arms replaced with a metallic arms of magical power, looking almost like liquid metal.

As you enter the sandy floor, Zarina looks to Lan,   "Not as grand as the last arena we were in, but less hidden undead worms underneath I hope"   Any further comments are unheard as the high priest booms at you all,  "STOP! In the name of the the Ram lord stop. Women, weak, soft women, are not allowed on our holy sand."  he looks at Talsien and Lan (and with an unimpressed gaze at Merrick),  "THe men may stay and supplicate themselves but the women must use the lesser entrance around the back..." 
redzimmer
 Merrick 
  Tal, may you please ask Mirriana how we should approach this? My instinct says this buffoon will only respond to a display of strength.  

Merrick makes a mental note to later visit the local charnal house with Acererak as his guest. The recently-deceased Triads may prove useful fonts of information...
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

  ". . . Women, weak, soft women, are not allowed on our holy sand."  

Tal chokes on a guffaw and tries to make it look like a wolfish sneeze.   "Weak, soft women"? He really said that?   He sits back on his haunches, tongue lolling out of his mouth.

   Merrick is wondering what you would like to do ,   he sends to Mir, clearly curious too how the redoubtable warrior women will respond to the affront.
RCgothic
My expression remains flat even as my full plate armour and shield snap into place in all their highly polished splendour and I stand immobile like a mountain, neither advancing further not giving any inclination I'm going to go back.

"If I see any soft, weak women I'll be sure to let them know," I state flatly. "Before you stand the Champions of the Free City and the Banes of Ilthane."

I'm pretty sure he'll have heard of both. A black dragonscale necklace hangs round my neck, a twin of the one I gave to Celeste. Elkist wasn't there for those events admittedly, but her deeds since are of enough of a similar caliber I don't let it bother me.

"Archmage Manzorian of The Fortress of Unknown Depths sent us. We're here on his business and politely request your aid. I will be sure to mention how  helpful  you are when I next see him," I prompt. "We don't have to discuss things here, but given what we overheard in the city we thought you might prefer...?" I suggest, leaving open the option of going elsewhere and giving him a way to back down without losing face.

 
 Spoiler 

Diplomacy: (1d20+12)[ 16 ]  pile on the circumstance bonuses please.🙂
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

To Accentuate the point, Merrick draws into his Bag of Holding and holds aloft the head of said Illthane.

 
 Spoiler: Aid Another (Fingers Crossed I don't get a 1...) 
 (1d20+8)[ 27 ]  Diplomacy
 
DrK
As Zarina and Elkist stand by Mirriana, all 3 resplendent in their armoured finery and weapons. As Mirriana describes their exploits the fat priest begins to look a less sure of himself and his followers shuffle uneasily, aware that they party are far stronger than them.

As Merrick pulls out the head the fat priest chokes back a cry of horror at the metal plates trophy head. One of the initiates falling to his knees, a faint cry of "my family, they are avenged."

The fat priest pauses, booming voice quelled by the mutterings and cheers of his own followers.  "The head of the beast! The thing that has haunted the traitors graves and the iron fist of Zeech himself" . Backing up a step he drops his voice,  "Let it not be said that Barnabas Voren does not recognise those blessed by strength. Come, come join our banquet table."  

He gestures to a simple wooden trestle table in the corner pulled high with some of meat ans cous cous stew.  "Will you tell us of the slaying the beast? Or the great undead worm that so assailed the grand tourney in the Free City." 
As they sit he looks at Mirriana more carefully,  "What brings you to this city? You so not look like you or your golden companions would have business with Zeech. Why are you not tending a temple of your own? 
RCgothic
I smile graciously as the priest relents.

"We would be honoured to accept your hospitality," I say taking a seat on the bench by the table.

"I've never really been the temple sort. If Mystara hadn't called me to events, Ilthane would probably have killed me in her first attack on Diamond Lake whilst the other Watchmen fled," I admit, somewhat shocked by a possibility I hadn't considered before.

"But fortunately by then Taliesn and I had already started a path that had seen us crowned champions of the Free City games, and joined with companions mighty enough to face her!"

"Unfortunately the undead worm wasn't the beginning or the end of it. There's a conspiracy to resurrect an ancient Demigod of Wormy-Undeath called Kyuss. Ilthane was involved in spreading his works to the Mistmarsh and we brought down her wrath by interfering with her eggs there, so she attacked my home town. We were summoned back in time for her second attack, where she attacked from the air. When our magic proved a match for her assault she retreated into the bay to let our durations expire. After that it was a desperate struggle in the air, blade against claw, until the beast fell and smote the town square with her ruin," I relate the battle.

"We understand she has a brood nearby that we should probably deal with whilst we're here, given the undead state of the one in the Mistmarsh. We also heard that Raknian may have fled here after his disgrace for unleashing the worm on the Free City. And frankly I have questions about Zeech building a Ziggurat, given his possible links to the conspiracy and that the last Ziggurat we visited gifted an ancient city to the worms of Kyuss to fuel his Apotheosis."

"But none of that is why we're here. We have heard that Lashonna, one of Zeech's allies, has knowledge of Kyuss, and perhaps of Archmage Manzorian's friend Balakarde who was investigating and has gone missing. We need to find out what she knows, but we don't know this city or how to gain access to her confidence. We were hoping you may be able to guide us, or at least point us to someone who can."

"Needless to say, what I've spoken of here is confidential, entrusted only to you worthy followers of Kord," I warn, fixing each man here present with a serious gaze. "I'd be being more circumspect even now, but we're already known to Zeech from the games and Raknian has probably told Zeech everything he thinks we know already. Still, it would be better if Zeech doesn't learn more for now."
DrK
Master Priest Voren nods sagely, a hand pulling at  his meet and beer stained bead. As you describe the ziggurat in the fallen Spire of Shadows his eyes dart towards the half built ziggurat where slaves and whip wielding overseers scurry like ants over the massive block like levels.   "I am troubled friends. You speak of the ziggurat, that is a most worrying concern. As for Lashona..."   he shakes his head, a look of almost wistful admiration on his face.  "The Lady Lashona is a mystery. She is wise in many ways and has remained ever young for the past 3 decades. I had heard tales of the Balakarde passing through some months ago but had not spoken with him." 

He gestures at the distant palace spires  "The palace is hosting a party of sorts. The Prince's ego is immense and he welcomes any with fame and wonder that could be met. If you speak to the palace functionaries and speak of being the arena champions he may invite you. If he does so you could meet the Lady there. She has not taken guests at her manor for a long, long time." 

He pauses and nods to the east,  "The traitor's graves are the swamps by the river. Its is where many of the poor or criminals are buried. It is a swampy mess that is said to be haunted and near death for anyone that goes there. But as you have slain Ilthane that was said to be where she made her lair. I shall think on the Ebon Triad though, You are welcome to take rooms here in the meantime"  
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Knowing the value of grace, Merrick elects to forget the rude welcome from before. The enemy of an enemy...

“ Perhaps Zeech has discovered a means to duplicate Kyuss’s ascension. If he’s as arrogant as you say, the right question and correct compliment at the right time may get us in his good graces. ”

He never claimed to be a bard who could win over a raging beast, but every day he did negotiate with essentially disembodied egos in exchange for tangible gains.

“ How do some-recently arrived celebrities let their presence be known? ”
DrK
 Zarina 

Zarina looks to the others and shrugs.  " I would suspect he will know we are there. The way I see it we have 3 options to explore from the notes that Balakrde and Manzorian gave us. We can explore Ilthanes possible lair, seek out this Cleric of the Cudgel or seek Lashona. What do you think Mirriana?" 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ If I may opine, I think we should clean out Illthane’s brood first. After what you told me about the lizard folk eggs, I wonder if her lair might hold more information. Also a hoard and dragons to slay should not be left unchecked. ”
DrK
 Zarina 

Zarina looks at Merrick and nods,  "Aye, I would agree Master Merrick, we know where the brood may be and its still early in the day. if we rid ourselves of that then there is no chance of her spawn coming back to trouble Diamon Lake in the future and the village can remain safe."  Glancing at the portly abbot she gestures at the initiates,  "COuld you lend us a man Abbot, just to show us the way to the Traitor's Graveyard?" 

THe abbot nods,  "Most certainly. Brother Gordon, come here."  he bellows to a well muscled man  "You know the way to the swamps aye?"  he question before the man nods.  "Lead these folk down there, they will rid of us of some vile beasts and loosen Zeech's hold on the city."   Even as the man looks nervous, the abbot shakes his head,  "Nae lad you won't be going in. Take 'em down and then have a few drinks in the Rat's Nest and they can meet you afterwards." 

The man agrees and nods a greeting,  "Morning, I am Brother Gordon, do you need to prepare or do you wish to leave any luggage here? The swamp is humid and thre are many flies, plus more larger and aggressive dangers." 
RCgothic
I ponder a moment the brother's offer. Nothing I carry is a particular encumbrance, and most is likely to be needed in any adventure. But I do have a few outfits and precious items I'd prefer to keep fresh.

"Thank you brother Gordon, I would like to leave a few things," I reply, reaching into the depths of my handy haversack to pull out my spare clothes and jewellery. "Please keep these safe."
Ghostfoot
 Elkist 
 "If I may use your chapel for a few minutes prior to our departure?"  

Elkist excuses herself and finds a quiet place to meditate as she prepares for the task ahead.
DrK
Time is given to you and a set of penitent cells are offered, the gate stone cells offering spartan comfort for you all. Elkist is given the time to pray, the main chapel, although dominated by imagery and statues of Kord has small alcoves to all of the major God's and Goddesses, Heronious and Pelor not commonly seen in the city.

After prayers the young initiate leads you through the narrow winding streets towards the river. As you walk towards the river the quality of the housing drops, rickety tenaments and narrow alleys dominated by crowds of drab slightly fearful people watching the skies and refuse oiled high in the street. Although even in the most wretched district statues of Zeech stand every few blocks and proclamations of his festival and his great endeavour mark many walls.

Reaching the river the young lad stops and points across the muddy waters.  "there, that's the grave yard. There's some wooden walkways but kind the mud, fog and graves"  . Looking out to the river estuary you can see a mass of miss and reed covered islands linked by numerous partially rotted wooden walkways mostly shrouded in must with a variety of stone moneuments and  markers. The mass of muddy islands buzzes with insects and smells of marsh.

Zarina gazes at the nearest walkway and then grins a little at Lan,  "Not sure they'd have supported Master Goat's weight."  As she gazes out into the marsh she looks a little concerned.  'Hmm, not the most welcoming." 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ Well, here we are again, knocking at villainy’s door. Let me first prepare us. ”

Arcane might flows from the Anima Magus and magical protections and enhancements flow.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting:
overland flight
Mass Resist Energy (acid) 140 minutes
Mass Resist Energy (cold) 140 minutes
Protection From Arrows 14 hours
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Taliesn sniffs the fetid air, "sniffing" with his other senses, too ( detect evil , mindsight), though he doesn't expect to smell anything this close.


 
 Originally Posted by DrK 
  "Hmm, not the most welcoming."  
 

He shrugs shoulders at Zarina's comment.    "Welcoming" places are the ones where you can be betrayed. This place is at least honest in its menace.   

He licks his lips and flexes all four claws, eager to face whatever danger awaits.
DrK
As flickering magics erupt around the brave heroes the swamp and marsh beckons you in, hillocks and tufts of tough grass sandwiched between moss covered dolmens and decaying tombstones. Peering into the misty swamp it’s Lan’s sharp eyes that spy a movement on the largest mound some 200ft away.

The hummock is like an island some 200ft in diameter, a 20ft wide waist deep sluggish channel surrounding it (~80ft from you). The land is covered in thick weeds and scattered stones. As Lan watches he sees a flicker of something large in the air before it lands in the middle of the hummock and vanishes from view
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Well let's get this over with," I say, approaching the mound when everyone is ready. " Dark Way! " I cast, bridging the small channel so we don't have to wade.
Ghostfoot
 Elkist 

Elkist quietly begins a sonorous chant as the group makes their way across the ribbon of magic towards the hummock, placing even more wards about the party.

 
 Spoiler: cast 
Cast:

Energy immunity (fire) x2 - Elkist &amp; Mirriana duration 24 hours
Protection from energy (120hp electricity) x5 - all, duration 110 minutes

Dark Way is a cool spell :-)
 
DrK
As more enchantments and spells and wardings spring up around the party Mirriana casts out a hand and solid bridge of force forms a gap across the soggy boggy moat surronding the clumped mound. As you get maybe half way across (~50ft across the 100ft bridge) its Lan and Talseien's sharp eyes that notice the winged reptillian form crouching behind a large tombstone on the island some 80ft away! Its glimmering yellow eyes burning brightly as its stares at you with predatory focus!

 
 Initiative

Talsien, Mirriana
Dragon
Everyone else

 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 
   I do not like how it is looking at me.    Tal growls faintly under his breath as he starts loping across the shadowy bridge faster and faster, until he's in a long sprint, fore legs and hind legs stretched to their limit as each bound throws him through the air toward the crouching dragon, covering much more distance than he realistically should.

Forty feet away, his muscles bunch, and he launches into the air, sailing toward his target, all four claws splayed, ready to grab and rend . . .
 
 Spoiler: surprise! 

So . . . , I'm so out of practice with combat I had to go back and read the rules, but I think this works:

1. Swift action to activate Horizon Walker chronocharm and move half my speed (30') toward the dragon, now 50' away. That should still be on the bridge (now at 80' out of 100'), so I don't need to worry about any difficult terrain, which I'm sure this swamp is full of.

2. Move action, 10' of that is regular, and for the last 40' to the dragon, it's all airborne. Tal has a +41 jump check:   jump  - (1d20+41)[ 44 ] . That should avoid any problem with difficult terrain from the end of the bridge to the dragon. 😉 Tal's reach is 10'. Not sure about the dragon's, but if it's 15' or greater, I've also got a "sufficient" tumble check to avoid an AoO:   tumble  - (1d20+26)[ 46 ] 

3. Standard action attack. Some things haven't changed:

  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 37 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 24 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 45 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 22 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 35 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 22 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 39 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 20 ] 

If two or more claws hit,   rend   damage from his Girallon Arms bind.

Let me know if I made any errors.

Edit: neglected to say, rend is double damage, so if all 4 hit, that would be . . . 176.

Edit-Edit: Wow, that was a pretty lousy jump, for Tal, but an incredibly graceful tumble.
 
RCgothic
"Try and stop it taking flight!" I suggest to Tal as he strategy bounding ahead, slower myself due to the care required for spellcasting.

" Divine Power! " I cast, inviting myself with strength, durability and combat ability.

I also activate my protective aura.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Move 30ft towards dragon.

+6BAB (gains an extra attack)
+2 STR (+6 supplants +4
+14 thp

Protection devotion +5 sacred to AC allies within 30ft.
 
DrK
THe heroes stride across the dark bridge of force conjured by Mirriana, the cleric, Elkist, Zarina, Lan and Merrick all fairly close together. As they catch sight of the dragon hiding (badly) in the undergrowth Mirriana strides forward, warding spells erupting from her and benefiting those still on the bridge  as Talsien races forward, leaping towards the beast and landing upon it in a flurry of slashing and and rending claws that tear great chunks of flesh and scale from the hapless dragon that seems terrified by the savage attack!

As Tal sails an effortless fiorty feet forwards to land on the the scaled back the dragon hisses in fury, bellowing loudly in Draconic   "Slayers of our Mother, you who would steal her mighty visage, we shall rend you limb from limb..."   Rearing up it spins its long neck around, a massive gout of toxic black acid spilling from its mouth as it lashes at Tal with teeth, wings and claws seeking to rend him as badly as he had rended it!

 
 Spoiler: Dragon 1 


Quicken breath Acid line on Tal  (12d4)[ 25 ]  Acid Ref DC22 for half
Full attack (with rapid strike)
Bite  (1d20+23)[ 26 ]  dam  (1d8+8)[ 12 ]   [magic/evil]
Claw  (1d20+21)[ 38 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 8 ]   [magic/evil]
Claw  (1d20+21)[ 29 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 10 ]   [magic/evil]
Claw  (1d20+16)[ 30 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 6 ]   [magic/evil]
Wing  (1d20+21)[ 41 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 8 ]   [magic/evil]
Wing   (1d20+21)[ 29 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 9 ]   [magic/evil]
 


Even more horrific though is the water parting either side of the Dark way bridge as three more of the dragons leap from the water! The savage pincer attack noting a  "Clever girl..."  from Zarina as she braces for the oncoming onslaught! The first dragon lunges forward, engulfing ALL of the characters atop the bridge in a cone of acid, the other two aiming more focused bursts that hit a selction of the heroes with the streams of toxic acid that hisses on the water.

Two of them surge forward, bodies in the water, long neck snaking 15ft forward (reach) to snap at Zarina and Elkist whilst the third focuses oits beady eyes on Mirriana at the front of the pack and thick sticky tar bubbles fr omthe surface of the darkbridge impeding Mirriana's progress and thos behind her! Leaving Tal isolated

 
 Spoiler: Other Dragons 


Dragon 2: Wdien/Quicken metabreath on EVERYONE (apart from Tal)   (12d4)[ 27 ]  Acid Ref DC22 for half
- swims 15ft from the bridge and bites at Zarina  Bite  (1d20+23)[ 39 ]  dam  (1d8+8)[ 14 ]   [magic/evil]

Dragon 3: Quicken metabreath on  Zarina/Elkist/Lan   (12d4)[ 29 ]  Acid Ref DC22 for half
- swims 15ft from the bridge and bites at Elkist Bite  (1d20+23)[ 39 ]  dam  (1d8+8)[ 14 ]   [magic/evil]

Dragon 4: Quicken metabreath on  Merrrick/Mirriana  (12d4)[ 30 ]  Acid Ref DC22 1d8+8[/roll]
 -- Remains 40ft from the bridge casts  Resinous tar  on the bridge under and in front of Mirriana making that part of the bridge sticky difficult terrain
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

His magical ward against acid holding strong, Merrick rises away from the bridge and above the tangle of humanoid and reptile.

“ You will join her in Tiamat’s eternal midden pit. ”

Pointing a finger at the tar-flinging wyrm, drawing the essence of Astaroth to enhance the beam, a disintegration ray shoots forth.

 
 Spoiler: Maximized Disintegrate 
 (1d20+10)[ 14 ]  ranged touch
 (14d6)[ 55 ]  damage maximized to 84
DC 20 fort to take 5d6 (maximized to 30) damage.
 
Stegyre
 Tal 

The acid breath washes harmlessly over Taliesn.   Thanks, Merrick!   and he tanks the onslaught of the first dragon's attacks. He responds with a single word:    Burn!   
 
 Spoiler: Round 2 attacks 

Swift action to use his Burning Blade maneuver: +1d6+1/2 IL fire damage to each melee attack (IL is 9, and I don't recall if that rounds up or down)

Move action:
Obligatory jump to trigger landshark boots:   Jump  - (1d20+41)[ 57 ] 
Obligatory tumble to avoid any AoO possibly triggered by that jump:   tumble  - (1d20+26)[ 27 ] 

Standard action:
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 44 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 20 ]  plus   fire  - (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 46 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 24 ]  plus   fire  - (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 37 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 22 ]  plus   fire  - (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 40 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 27 ]  plus   fire  - (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 

* Increase each fire damage +1 if odds round up, if it matters.
* If 2 or more claw attacks hit, damage is doubled, but not the fire damage.
* The previous turn's attack penetrated any DR/magic; current and future attacks penetrate any other sort of DR, thanks to transmutation property of Tal's wyrmfang belt.
* Tal will try to leave the head intact, just in case Merrick is collecting.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan had spotted the poorly hidden dragons, but fell victim to the classic blunder - focusing on the threat he could see to the exclusion of the ones he didn’t.

Survival instincts kicked in and the small man leapt into the air, flying up at an angle.  He got within 30’ of the dragon engaged with Tal, taking aim at the giant beast. He muttered under his breath,  ”Let it begin ...”  .  As he approached aerially, three javelins flew out to the ‘greet’ the dragon they attacked first.

 
 As swift, activate shirt to fly.  Move action to get w/in 30’ of dragon engaged with Tal, standard to use Greater Manyshot.  No Deadly Aim yet.
   Att 1  - (1d0+18)[ 19 ]   Att 1 - 26 ,   Dam  - (1d4+8)[ 11 ] + Skirmish - 24  = Total:  35 
   Att 2  - (1d0+13)[ 14 ]  , Att 2 - 23 ,   Dam  - (1d4+8)[ 11 ] + Skirmish - 25  = Total:  36 
   Att 3  - (1d0+8)[ 9 ]  ,  Att 3 - 28 ,   Dam  - (1d4+8)[ 11 ] + Skirmish - 16  = Total:  27  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 32 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +20 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker
Effects: Feat: Deadly Aim; +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC); Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min)
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina watches in some awe as Talisien bounds forwards and tears massive strips of flesh from the dragon, but her excitement is short lived as the other 3 of the beasts splash up out of the water, huge gouts of acid spewing over her magical wardings as she takes cover, even after that the multiple Zarina's duck down, one of the images shattering into fragmented glass as the dragon's fangs narrowly miss her.

Cursing she looks at the two on her right, one targeting her, and one some 30ft further forwards trying to block the bridge. The circlet on her forehead glows with power as a trio of magical bolts strike forth from her hands, the Eye of bococb allowing her to sense the weak points in the dragon's magical wardings. Even as the fire rays die down she mutters another incantation and begins to hover above the bridge before jetting into the air. She looks down at the scaled lizard, a smile on her face, a foe she could face, a beast to impale....  "Try me worm, your mother met her end on our blades and you'll share her fate, pathetic lizards..." . The insult delivered in draconic designed to be stinging.

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Dragon bite  (1d7)[ 6 ]  hits her on a  1
Ref save  (1d20+17)[ 28 ] 
Ref save  (1d20+17)[ 22 ] 

Know Devotion  (1d20+21)[ 31 ]  For hit/dam bonus
Circlet of Rapid casting: Swift Scorching Ray  at Dragon 2 w/Empowered spell shard
Ray 1 Spell Resistance  (1d20+19)[ 23 ]  to hit  (1d20+15)[ 31 ]  dam  (4d6)[ 6 ]  x1.5 FIRE
Ray 2 Spell Resistance  (1d20+19)[ 26 ]  to hit  (1d20+15)[ 17 ]  dam  (4d6)[ 10 ]  x1.5 FIRE
Ray 3 Spell Resistance  (1d20+19)[ 27 ]  to hit  (1d20+15)[ 27 ]  dam  (4d6)[ 11 ]  x1.5 FIRE

Standard: Cast Fly
Move: Fly 30ft directly up
Dragon's AoO  (1d20+23)[ 26 ]  dam  (1d8+8)[ 15 ]  Mirror image (hits on a 1)  (1d6)[ 4 ] 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125/125 +10
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield +5 Mirriana +3 Dragon skin =  40 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Greater Luminous Armour (-4 to hit, +12AC)  24 hours
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour
Heart of Air  (+10ft Jump) 12 hours
Dragon skin (Black)
Shield
Mirror Image 6 images
Fly 14 mins



Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +2 dex+3 nat +5 sacred = 40

Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC) [Mirriana]; Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min) [Merrick/Elkist]

 Abilities 
(ACTIVE) Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

Similarly to my companions I'm well-warded against acid attacks. The tar isn't even an inconvenience - it didn't look like Tal was going to need help anyway - as I backtrack towards the rest of the party.

"Are they saying anything interesting?" I ask curiously.  "Flame Strike!" I cast off-handedly, catching two of the dragons in the blast.

 
 Spoiler 

Move towards party. 25ft including 1 square of difficult terrain.

Cast Flame Strike.  (14d6)[ 47 ]  half fire half divine, ref DC21 for half.
Spell Resistance Dragon 1  (1d20+14)[ 17 ] 
Spell Resistance Dragon 2  (1d20+14)[ 15 ] 
 
Ghostfoot
 Elkist 
 Dragons. Now here were some foes to fight!  Elkist swings her sword about, swooping through the air as she engages the nearest with her great blade of crackling electricity.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
 Move:  Advance on one of the ambushers (Fly ~15ft, hopefully AoO is used)
 Standard:  Lightning Sword  (1d20+18)[ 21 ]  (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon) damage  (2d6+10)[ 15 ]  (+8 str, +2 weapon) + shock  (1d6)[ 3 ] 
 Swift:  Heart of Earth -&gt; Stoneskin
 
DrK
The swamp explodes with flickering lights, flames and explosions as the heroes lash out with powerful magics and attacks! On the island Tal claws and grapples with dragon, both dragon and the animalistic shifter tearing great chunks off each other, although Tal's savagery and glowing claws seem to be gaining the upper hand. Then the end happens as Lan leaps forward taking flight, a  flurry of force javelins hammering into the dragon, one of them bouncing off the thick scales but the others ripping into the dragon pinning it to the muddy ground as it dies from javelins and bloody claw attacks.

Back on bridge Merrick spirals into the air, a thin green beam of deadly magic ripping through the dragon's magical protections. The disintegration is savage as fully half the dragon disintegrates into dust, tail, rear legs, left wing all blasted into dust by the powerful magical assault. Even as its writhes and twists Zarina leaps skwyards on a plume of flickering flames, rays of fire flying from her hands as the three rays strike he dragon in he face, one penetrating its skull as its sinks steaming and spreading dust from its remains

 Disintergrate is 2d6 per level so its a horrible 168 maximised damage 

The one by Elkist shrieks in rage as it watches two of its hatchlings die, then it leaps at Elkist, its massive form able to shrug off her blow as it and its surviving dragon kin are engulfed in a pilalr of flame but both manage to emerge unscathed as their natural wards shield them from damage. The dragon by Mirriana pounces forward atop her, a hissed  "You will all die! We will feast on your bones..." , even as it pounces she can see its weapons rippling and becoming wraithlike.

The second flies from Elkist streaking into the air seeking to snatch the flying Merrick from air after seeing that the crazed wizard had disintergrated its brother!

 
 Spoiler: Dragons 


Dragon #3
Fly towards Merrick and snatch and swallow!  (1d20+21)[ 31 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 10 ]  grapple  (1d20+23)[ 25 ]  vs merricks  (1d20)[ 13 ]  +??
 -- If grappled bite/swallow  (1d8+8)[ 16 ]  and SWALLOWED!

Dragon #4
Swift: Wraithstrike
Full attack Mirriana vs TOUCH

Bite  (1d20+23)[ 32 ]  dam  (1d8+8)[ 10 ] 
Claw  (1d20+21)[ 27 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 9 ] 
Claw  (1d20+21)[ 27 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 7 ] 
Claw  (1d20+16)[ 30 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 8 ] 
Wing  (1d20+21)[ 31 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 8 ] 
Wing  (1d20+21)[ 37 ]  dam  (1d6+5)[ 8 ] 
 

 Elkist gets an AoO on Dragon #3 
RCgothic
 Post in wrong thread 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

Even as the dragon pounces its wraithlike claws become solid once more and scrape off my armour.

"Wraithstrike! I like that spell!" I retort to the dragon's ineffective attack. My own sword has become misty and immaterial. A ring on my right hand glows. I step closer to the dragon attacking me to bring it within range and without further pause I strike back, a mighty blow suffused with divine energies, my sword passing scale as easily as claws would have passed metal.

"Everybody, help Merrick!" I instruct.
 
 Spoiler 

Immediate action: Ring of spell battle. Re-designate target of wraithstrike spell - my weapon.

5-ft step.

Wraithstrike Divine Surge Strike:  (1d20+20)[ 29 ]  Vs touch AC.
Damage:  (1d8+6)[ 10 ]  plus  (8d8)[ 42 ]  Damage counts as good and magic for bypassing DR.

Manoeuvres for next round:  (9d5)[ 4 ][ 1 ][ 4 ][ 1 ][ 5 ][ 3 ][ 4 ][ 3 ][ 4 ](29)  SB,  DS, DR , DtF, WRT
 
Stegyre
 Tal 

Turning from the remains of the first dragon, Tal sees one of the other dragons taking flight and swallowing Merrick.   That will not do!  . Bunching on his haunches, he launches into the air, flying like a burning rocket straight to the flying dragon.

 
 Spoiler: Tal Takes Flight 

. . . temporarily, at least:

Full attack: Searing Charge, allowing him to charge attack, in flight, with perfect maneuverability. Not sure how much "flanking" matters with flying creatures, but as I have plenty of movement (120'), Tal will circle up and attack the dragon from whichever direction (most likely above) that gives flanking with others.

Only get the one attack (which is why he doesn't usually charge) but adds fire damage:

  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 29 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 26 ]  plus   fire  - (5d6)[ 15 ]   (if it's available and matters, +2 to hit for flanking)

After that, he'll just let himself fall to the ground. The height isn't worth burning a  feather fall . Just let me know how far.

Edit: Wow! What a dangerously-bad to-hit roll that was. Might need the flanking bonus after all.    I'm just not used to flying.    😳
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan nodded grimly as the dragon he and Tal teamed up on died.  Unfortunately, he turned in time to see Merrick swallowed by one of the remaining two dragons.   The others would be fine to solo one dragon, but he needed to help the wizard out - no matter how questionable the man’s powers might be.

Whispering two words of power, Lan felt a thrill of energy rush through his body.  Moving faster for the moment, he flew towards the dragon, throwing another three javelin shots at the flying beast.  Perhaps it would be enough damage to force the creature to spit Merrick out.

If not, they could always cut him free from the corpse.

 
 Swift action - cast swift haste (lasts for  (1d4)[ 4 ]  rounds).
Move action (up to 90’) to fly w/in 30’ of dragon that swallowed our wiz.
Standard - Greater Manyshot.  I messed up my bonuses last time ... greater Manyshot doesn’t apply iterative penalties... just one big penalty to your full BAB!
  Att 1  - (1d20+19)[ 32 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+8)[ 12 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 27 ]  = Total:  39 
  Att 2  - (1d20+19)[ 38 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+8)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 29 ]  = Total:  39 
  Att 3  - (1d20+19)[ 35 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+8)[ 12 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 16 ]  = Total:  28 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker
Effects: Swift haste (effects of haste for 3 more rounds); Flight (4 more rounds); Feat: Deadly Aim; +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC); Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Everything becomes constricted and dark suddenly as Merrick finds himself down the gullet of one of Illthane's brood.

  Well this is a pickle.  

Quickly itemizing his spell list, he sighs. It would be too hard to focus anyway, what with being crushed as he tried to cast.

 
 Spoiler: DC 24 With a Con of 11 = Wasted Spell 
Note to sell, buy CON increasing items.
 


Spiteful to the end, Merrick will his shapesand headpiece into a mass of spines to irritate the dragon.

  There's a small chance I can escape Taliesn, but please ask the others to try getting me out first,   he asks his shifter companion.
DrK
      
     Zarina    

As the flames and the savage and brutal enhanced disintegration kill the nearest dragon to her she whirls to see Mirriana rebuffing "her" dragon before smashing it savagely in the face. At Mirriana's orders she nods,   "As you say Contsable"   she shoouts back, joining Lan and Talsien in raining fire at the creature. Looking skywards she rockets upwards on feeling the wind rushing through her hair and the feeling of true freedom as she swoops towards the beast following the flaming trail left by Talsien and the staying clear of Lan's deadly field of fire.

She (all 6 of her) plunge into the mass of wings, claws and teeth and bring down Sword of Aqaa hard trying to cut Merrick free! The charge savage, her weapon catching fire she dives upwards, her thumb slipping over the catch to combine the desert wind with the flask of viurlent liquid ember upon the blade!
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 



AoO from the Dragon  (1d20+23)[ 26 ]  dam  (1d8+8)[ 12 ]  mirror images, Zarina on a 6  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

Charge the Dragon (gets +10 damage from Leading the charge Stance)
Swift: Searing blade boost +3d6+10 damage
Attack  (1d20+21)[ 27 ]  Dam  (1d12+21)[ 27 ]  +  (3d6+10)[ 19 ]  searing boost +  (3d6)[ 13 ]  liquid ember; Dragons Ref save Vs DC17 to not catch fire  (1d20)[ 11 ] 
17 base +2 charge +4 KDevot-2 PA


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125/125 +10
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield+3 Dragon skin =  35 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Greater Luminous Armour (-4 to hit, +12AC)  24 hours
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour
Heart of Air  (+10ft Jump) 12 hours
Dragon skin (Black)
Shield
Mirror Image 6 images
Fly 14 mins
Knowledge Devotion +4



Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +2 dex+3 nat +5 sacred = 40

Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC) [Mirriana]; Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min) [Merrick/Elkist]

 Abilities 
(ACTIVE) Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
 [Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
 

 Just Elkist to go 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

As the dragon slumps dead around him, Merrick shimmies out of the new opening created by his companions.

“ There is no dignified way to emerge from a body that swallowed you. ”

He nods his thanks and rises back up into the air.
Ghostfoot
 Elkist 

Elkist turns and swoops back across the miasma to fight the sole remaining dragon in unison with her friend.

 
 Spoiler: rolls 
 Full:  Lightning Sword  (1d20+18)[ 32 ]  (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon) damage [roll]2d6+10[roll]  [16] (+8 str, +2 weapon) + shock  (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 
DrK
The flying dragon is savagely assailed even as it snatches and gobbles down its prize! Talsien and Zarina both streak up into the air, the shifter trailing fire behind him and both savage the dragon with a great slice of claws or the swing of the flaming Sword of Aqaa and massive rents are torn in the dragon, a single image of Zarina's vanishing into flickering motes of light as the dragon swings its head around trying to bite her. Flapping weakly it tries to gain altitude, confident it can outpace the slowly falling Talsien and soaring Zarina but before it can make good on its escape a trio of javelins streak upwards striking it in the head, the force of the magically powered skewers penetrating the lizard's eye socket and plunging into its brain. The beast collapses from the sky, the impact on the water a sudden shock in the constricting and corrosive darkness for Merrick. the water filling the stomach is more worrying but he is able to climb up the slack water filled gullet and pull himself free and float above the brackish water.  A muttered “ There is no dignified way to emerge from a body that swallowed you.” .... to the others

On the the darkbridge of force the final dragon lets out a high pitched roar of pain as its claws suddenly harden and bounce of Mirriana's solid armour before her own sword becomes wispy and plunges through its scales. Even as it recoils from that Elkist swoops in and slices down with a brutal blow in a shower of crackling lightning sparks.

The dragon roars more before turning and in a great splash of water that soaks Mirriana and Elkist flaps it batlike wings before flapping into the air streaking down the river bed trying to gain altitude even as it trails blood in a shower behind it.... A great agonised shriex of  "Naximarra shall have her revenge! I will come return and you, or your children's children will be mine...." 
 
 Spoiler: Dragon #4 


Withdraw action to avoid the AoO from Elkist and Mirriana
Flap 160ft away (currently 130ft horizontal and at 40ft altitude) - silly clumsy flyer
 
RCgothic
"You can't escape us Naximarra! We have your blood!" I call after the retreating dragon, indicating my and Elkist's bloodied swords. "You think we'd let you go after a threat like that? We can track you to the ends of hell itself! Come back and face your end with dignity! Or yield we may yet be merciful. If you make us do this the hard way we'll just dig you out of whatever hole you go to ground in!"

" Constricting Chains! "

Even as I weaken slightly, luminous chains burst from the swamp to bind the dragon in place, preventing it from moving away from us. As a further security, I grasp the metamagic rod hanging from my belt.

" Quickened Control Winds! "

Winds swirl around me as I mutter words of command too quiet for the dragon to hear before the previously light winds raise to a howl, threatening to check her progress and bear her back to us. An eye of calm surrounds the party however.

"Well, let's go get her." I suggest to the party, preparing to summon my griffon when I next get a chance. "If she doesn't yield then we'll probably have to kill her."

 
 Spoiler 

Holy Word -&gt; Constricting Chains (sanctified).
No save, no spell resistance. Range 240ft.
Strength DRAIN  (1D2)[ 1 ] 
The creature is entangled, taking a -2 penalty on attack rolls and a -4 penalty to effective Dexterity. Moreover, the chains are anchored to the nearest immobile object (usually the floor), preventing the bound creature from moving. An entangled creature attempting to cast a spell must succeed on a Concentration check (DC 15 + spell level) or lose the spell.

The chains automatically constrict the bound creature for 3d6 points of nonlethal damage per round unless the caster (as a free action) commands the chains not to deal damage during any given round.

The constricting chains have AC 20, 5 hp per caster level (maximum 100 hp), and damage reduction 10/magic. They are immune to energy-based attacks, nonlethal damage, and all spells except dispel magic and similar effects. They are not subject to critical hits. Half of all damage dealt to the chains (rounded down) is transferred to the target.

A successful DC 32 Strength check breaks the chains and ends the spell. An entangled creature can also attempt to escape (requiring 1 minute) with a DC 40 Escape Artist check.

Note: A clumsy flier must maintain forward speed to remain aloft or it will fall. This spell prevents that.

Quickened Control Winds (Air Domain Spell Level 5) using metamagic rod.
560ft radius Windstorm directed toward the party. Large/Huge Creatures are checked. Large flying creatures are blown back. Fort DC21 negates.
80ft diameter eye of calm around the party.
 
DrK
The dragon flies fast before a torrent of magic streams from the war priestess. Massive winds erupt around, the breeze pulling the parties cloaks and hair blowing ina  most dramatic manner but hurling the dragon tumbling backwards through the air out of control. Even as it tries to spin and fly with the wind a mass of glowing tentacles rise from the swamp and ensnare and with a  thunderous splash and pathetic mewling the dragon slams into the mud with a splatter of mud wrapped in the shimmering chains that hold her fast.

A bellowed  "RELEASE ME, RELEASE ME OR FACE MY WRATH..."  soon fades to a more pathetic and low pitched hissing tone,  "Release me, I beg you. I shall leave this land and fly a thousand league from here. You and your blood shall never see me again. My mother's warren lies close and her hoard can be yours..."  The dragon's pleading at once both pathetic and a lie. Both Elkist and Mirriana realise that although it tells the truth that it will leave this place and leave the hoard, it will likley spend  a decade plotting vengenace and return.

Zarina flies down beside Lan and hovers in the air, her hair streaming out behind her.   "This creature is pathetic, but is a thing born of evil. Who knows how many innocents it has slain Constable. We should kill it here and call it justice."   A sshe speaks fire blooms in her eyes and she stands ready to do it for Mirriana.
RCgothic
"That's what she was, Zarina, but maybe there is an opportunity for her to change," I speak within earshot of the prisoner.

I wait for everyone to gather round before dismissing the chains. "I don't think these will be necessary. You're not going to try and escape, are you Naximarra? You've seen a taste of what we can do to you if you try. And I would find you anyway."

The binding duration wouldn't have lasted much longer, though the storm will rage for hours yet.

"Did you not know, Naximarra? What your mother did to your infant siblings in the marsh? The abominations they became? Did she tell you you were too precious to sacrifice to Kyuss like all the rest of us? Did you believe her?"

I sigh and wave a hand as if these questions are of no matter, and adopt a sympathetic and compassionate expression.

"You say you'll leave this place and none of mine will ever see you again. I don't believe you. But I do believe you want to live, Naximarra. And I didn't come here to kill you or your siblings. I want only to secure safety for the people of Eel Town and the Shanties and make sure all of your mother's works of Kyuss are undone. So I think perhaps I can see how we could spare your life."

"However. I can't just let you go back to preying on the weak, plotting revenge, and indulging your baser instincts. I have an opportunity now to save many from your future self and my Goddess would censure me were I not to take it."

" If I am to spare you, you will have to change.  And you will have to learn to  want  to change, Naximarra. It will be difficult... But not so difficult, I think, as facing your fate in The Abyss."

"Every day people wake up and choose who they are going to be. I firmly believe all it takes to be a different person is sufficient motivation to choose otherwise. I believe you have that motivation Naximarra. You don't want to die, and I don't particularly want to kill you."

"Tell me you would rather change than die and I can give you that chance. I will send you to my mentor Manzorian at the Fortress of Unknown Depths to earn atonement. When we are satisfied you have reformed and are no longer a danger to the innocent, you will then be free."

"Sadly it would be remiss of me not to circle back round to the not trusting you part of this. I don't have to trust you. If you make the choice to live, I will place you under a Quest. It is a powerful curse, not easily removed. If you go back on the terms of our agreement you will sicken until you recant. I could do this against your will, but I won't. You must make this decision freely, or as freely as circumstances allow. Think of it as a locking in of your choice. The casing time is ten minutes and your magical defences will not be an issue," I explain.

"If you would prefer death, we will try and make it painless.
 We can spare a little time for you to make your decision, but our own quest won't wait for long."
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

The look on Lan’s face clearly said his perspective on as in line with Zarina’s.  But he held his tongue for now, giving the dragon nothing but a dark scowl.  The old adage of the scorpion and the frog came to mind.

  Acorpions stings, snakes bite and leopards have spots ... and black dragons kill...  

 
 Standing by
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker
Effects: Swift haste (effects of haste for 3 more rounds); Flight (4 more rounds); Feat: Deadly Aim; +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC); Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min)
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Tal watches the exchange with interest. Flexing his claws occasionally, his muscles tensed and ready to spring should the dragon attempt to take flight again --   though it'd not get far against that storm   -- but he "says" nothing to the others. Musing instead on whether one really can change his nature, or if there is a fundamental core to being that must always express itself.   Can an evil dragon choose to be good? If so, does that not mean a good hero could choose to be evil? Could  I  choose to be evil?   The thought sends an involuntary shiver through him.

   Oh, the things I could show you!   
Ghostfoot
 Elkist 

Elkist flies towards where the dragon has fallen, her blade guiding her through the air. With the winds whipping about the marsh she descends and forges through the muck for the final approach.

She positions herself at the beast's head, sword held firmly at the ready. For her the decision is simple -  penance or death . She waits for the nod from Mirriana.
DrK
The dragon hisses, its tails sending up a column of water as it cuts into the water it barely concealed rage. But then its draconic eyes see Zarina, Lan and Elkist all poised ready to end its days and the fight leaves the massive wyrm. Its uncoils slightly, resting its scaled maw upon the DarkWay bridge by Mirriana, its saucer sized eye staring into her face.  "I will submit to this quest and this humiliation. I may change, I may not, but I will serve the penance you set me." 

All of the party can sense the dragon is telling the truth in accepting the geas, but none of you seem sure the dragon truly wants to change...!
RCgothic
I nod in acknowledgement of the dragon's decision, then begin quietly praying to construct the spell. For almost ten minutes nothing much happens, but as the spell nears completion I speak aloud:

"I, Mirriana Conlan, Sheriff of Diamond Lake, Chosen of Mystara, Champion of Greyhawk, and Heir of Zosiel, Quest you, Naximarra Ilthane's daughter, to atone for your past misdeeds, to learn how to live unselfishly and control your darker instincts, and to want to."

"For the Duration of this Quest you, Naximarra, shall not cause harm to befall by action, or knowingly by inaction, to any sapient creature."

"For the Duration of this Quest you, Naximarra, shall not attempt to circumvent this Quest."

"For the Duration of this Quest you, Naximarra, shall take tutelage from Archmage Manzorian or his duly appointed persons and submit to any additional securities he may deem necessary. "

"For the Duration of This Quest you, Naximarra, shall undertake any tasks set by Manzorian commensurate with your atonement and study."

"This Quest shall be Discharged when Archmage Manzorian, being satisfied you have fulfilled the terms, releases you."


With a final flourish the spell discharges, a shining mark of obligation hanging in the air above Naximarra's forehead before fading to invisibility. I smile kindly at the Dragon, waving my companions back. Another wave and the storm around us vanishes.

"I appreciate this will be difficult for you Naximarra. I don't desire to add to your humiliation, therefore I will stick to practicalities. You will find Archmage Manzorian at the Fortress of Unknown Depths. It is formidably defended and you will not be welcome unannounced. Instead, go to the town of Magepoint and wait. Tell them Mirriana Conlan sent you and arrangements will be made. Go in peace."
DrK
With a palpable pressure in the air the magical geas settles into the dragon that screeches as the quest to serve crashes down on its being. Trembling and shaking Naximmarra raises her head, terror in her eyes at the  immense longing to serve, such a servile attitude so opposite to a dragon’s assumed place in the order of things.

Eventually she shakes her head and nods.  “I will do as you ask and seek this arch mage of Mage point.”  Still reeling she turns and flaps clumsily up in the air, still a little stunned from the impact.

Zarina watches the beast flee, a look of contempt on her face for the beast and then raises an eye at Mirriana.  “I hope this was the right choice Mir’. We could have eradicated this bloodline from the world . I fear change will be impossible for such a beast though I pray to the Lightning Lord that I am wrong.” 

The heroes looks at the shattered bodies. One mostly reduced to dust, one sunk and broken, the third a tangled mass of blood and scales atop the island. Although on the island it can be seen that their is a small pool day in a hollow and in the centre of the pool a large mound with a muddy entrance way that lies half in the water like a giant otters’ burrow. The liquid you estimate would be maybe waist high for most of you in the 15ft diameter hole
RCgothic
"I trust Manzorian will be able to handle her Zarina," I reply. "And if not, well, I'll know where to find her," I say as I wipe the dragon's blood from my blade with a scrap of cloth from my cloak with a knowing look, carefully storing the bloodied rag in a pouch.

"Are there any useful items on the bodies?" I ask. "If not we should see what we can find in their den."
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan watched in stoic silence as Mir administered ‘justice’ against the dragon.  He raised an eyebrow at one of the phrases - “... atone for your past misdeeds, to learn how to live unselfishly and control your darker instincts, and to want to."

  ... and to want to ... 
  Is that what we do now?  Take free will and mandate desires?  Is this better than death?    The halfling watched as the dragon flew off, his eyes narrowing as Zarina spoke her piece and Mirriana answered.  Aloud, he said  “That dragon deserved death, as much as any other monster we’ve faced.  Don’t be surprised if this comes back to haunt us ... or your descendants.”   The memory of the attack on the town was still fresh in his mind as the day it happened.

He looked like he was going to say more, then shook his head and moved to search the bodies and the area.  Once they found the entrance, he nodded to it and waved to Taliesn.   ”Better let us scout ahead while someone notifies the mage. Give me a hand, Tal?”[/i] 

 
 A little perspective from Lan.  Ready to scout ahead with our resident Animorph
  Listen  - (1d20+19)[ 38 ] ,   Search  - (1d20+19)[ 27 ] ,   Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 36 ] 
  Move silently  - (1d20+21)[ 40 ] ,   Hide  - (1d20+21)[ 23 ]  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker
Effects: Feat: Deadly Aim; +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC); Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 
 My father once said ‘the only true way to defeat an enemy is to become his friend.’ Of course he ended dying by my mother’s hand… ”

He trailed off. If he had a point he was not about to share it.

Instead he calmly meditates as Buer restores the damaged skin from his brief introduction to the dragon digestive system.
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Tal pauses for a few seconds, focusing his attention inward as his wounds rapidly close and skin knits back together, leaving not even a scar.
 
 Spoiler: healing 
Three rounds of full-round concentration to heal 10 pts/round. Taking 10, he automatically passes the first check (DC 37), and can't fail the next 2 checks even if he rolled a 1.    Some of us -- *ahem* -- put ranks into concentration   
 


Nodding to Lan, he then extends all his senses as he looks toward the marshy island at the end of the dark bridge.
 
 Spoiler: looking 
Usual  detect evil  range 60', mindsight range 100', good ol' fashioned looking, listening, and smelling (Spot and Listen both 15, leaving any rolls thereon to DrK). Unless anything else is going on, Tal will make his way forward with Lan to explore.
 
DrK
Tal and Lan pad forward and soon find amidst the rank mud and boggy pools a portal down into the heart of the mound. Its a 30ft "drop" through the hole to the muddy cave below that Tal can easily jump and Lan has a choice with the his magical flying or climbing the rough roots filled walls. As they descend into the cavern, Merrik and the ladies waiting above, the earthen walled cavern reeks of sharp bitter chemicals strong enough to water the eyes and steal the breath. Tal is almost overcome by the alchemical tang, his sensitive noise burning with the fumes. The walls a tangled mass of mud and roots whilst boggy water drips constantly from the walls gathering in puddles on the floor and collecting in a fuming pool to the east.

In the northen bulge of the chamber four large ornate glass canisters once stood although now they have been shattered and the contents washed into the fuming pool, hazardous contents judging by the burnt marks they have left on the ground. To the north east a ledge is filled with all manner of smashed crates, boxes and jars of various types. To the east more jars and boxes lie shattered. The devastation in the cave is immsense, it looks like a storm has passed through destroying everything although all the confused tracks Lan can see are of the dragons.... Melted coins, baubles and partially buried gems are scattered around the floor and corroded steal "objects" jut from the pool.

As Lan surveys the scene he doesn't see danger, and as Tal joins him the shifter can feel the presence of emanating from the pool of toxic liquid but his telepathic abailities detect no other thoughts but Lan by his side and his friends above

 
 OOC

Fort DC 21 or sickened from fumes (Tal take as a -4 as he has scent)
Feel free to loot or search for traps etc... as you see fit

 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan gazed around the lair, moving silently as he searched for signs of more enemies.  It looked like someone or something had thrown a tantrum done here.  While the pragmatic part of him wanted to search for items of use, the survivalist in him warned him to caution.  When he took a step towards the pool, Tal gave him a warning and the Halfling paused.  Thinking to his companion, ‘said’   ’Twll the others to come down, but let them know what you felt.  And tell them to try and be quiet.

Oh, and if they have any minions to call forth, we can use them as a scout.”  

 
 Lan has to climb down since his flight ended.  He will wait for the others, scanning/scouting quietly away from the pool of evil. 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker
Effects: Feat: Deadly Aim; +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC); Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min)
 
RCgothic
"Ok everyone, let's head down," I say to the others. "Jump on my mark and I'll arrest our descent at the bottom with my ring."

 
 Spoiler 

Fort save  (1d20+19)[ 32 ] 
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

At his own pace Merrick flies down, keeping off the ground just in case any clumsy tripwires are afoot.
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Tal wrinkles his snout in disgust as the scents, both literal and metaphysical wash over him, but he is otherwise unphased, his body and senses automatically adjusting in ways only a shapeshifter can. He relay's his and Lan's message to those above, warning,    Cover your noses. It's really foul down here. Nothing thinking, but definitely evil.   
  I wonder what fire might do to it,   he muses to himself.

 
 Spoiler 
Just standing ready and waiting for the others, keeping his senses alert.
 
Ghostfoot
 Elkist 

Elkist floats down with Mirriana, her blade guiding her decent somewhat.

With the warning from Tal and Lan she casts her senses around searching for deceitful spirits.

 
 Spoiler: sneaky spirits? 
Detect spirits 60ft

Spirit =

* All incorporeal undead;
* All fey;
* All elementals;
* Creatures in astral form or with astral bodies (but not a creature physically present on the Astral Plane);
* All creatures of the spirit subtype (see Oriental Adventures);
* Spirit folk and telthors (see Unapproachable East);
* Spirit creatures created by spells such as dream sight or wood wose.
 
DrK
Elliot, Zarina and Miriana float/fly down as Merrill swoops down beside them. Warned by Tal Elkist reaches out with her supernatural senses and then reels back as a massive presence can be felt in the pool

 

With her witch sight she can feel the creature there, the hatred for the living palpable and like a bitter acrid taste in the back of her throat. She can see the beast waiting under the surface and as she looks it raises its head and meets her own gaze (hidden to all others). A few skulls form the heart of the beast, the rest of it being formed by the liquid acids and spectral hate!

 Init

Elkist, Lan and Merrick
Acid wraith
Rest of the party

Still incorporeal and currently under the surface of the acidic pool so has improved cover

 
Ghostfoot
 Elkist 
 "'Ware, whatever happened here the spirits curse this place."  She steps up next to everyone sword raised in defence as the party fixes its attention on the forming thing. With pure force of will she tries to force it back down, or at least weaken it.

 
 Spoiler: Chastise spirits 
Chastise spirits: 30ft burst  (11d6)[ 34 ]  Will DC28 for half
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

While the threat of acid was diminished, Merrick still appreciates the danger that the spirit represented.

Once all his companions are within rage, he casts  Haste. 
 
 Spoiler: Haste 
+1 to hit
+1 Dodge AC
14 rounds
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

At Elkist's warning, Lan frowned, squinting towards the pool.  After a moment, he moved away from the group, slipping to the side as he activated his headband and the wraith came into sight.    "Ah ... there you are ..."    From there, he waited for the others to engage, already feeling his nerves alive with Merrick's spell.

 
 Lan will run towards the barrels (60') and try to use those for cover until next turn (move action).  Activating True Seeing from the headband (standard), and gazing across the cave for anything unusual ... or under an illusion.   
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3Scout's headband
Effects: Haste (+1 AC, Ref, 30' move, extra attack w/full; 14 rounds); true seeing (10 rounds); Feat: Deadly Aim; +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC); Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min)
 
DrK
With an imperctible splashing and flickering the surface layer of the acid pool rises upwards, the skulls in the centre of the "head" turning to face you all, before it shudders as there is a visible impact as the words of power from Elkist send a ripple across its surface!  Streaming forward it moves to engage Elkist, Mirriana and Zarina, Merricka dn Tal, ignoring Lan scattering left. To Lan as the headband activates he can see the shimmering spirit and the skulls in the heart of the incorporeal floating acidic wraith.

Rising into the air hovering some 20ft above everyone near the heart of the cavern it thrashes it body and a cloud of spectral gas envelops the 5 heroes (Tal, Merrick, Zarina, Elkist and Mirriana) with searing acid and poisonous fumes

 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Flies with perfect maneurablity to near the roof (20ft above the ground)
Does a spread breath weapon to hit all APAR from Lan
 -  (12d6)[ 49 ]  Acid damage Ref 30 Half
 - Poison effect Fort DC 30 or  (1d6)[ 6 ]  strength damage
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

The wizard is stunned by the pure vitriolic menace and reels from the attack.

  There but for the grace of Buer. Tal, please warn the others, my acid resistance is not strong enough to withstand this.  
 
 Spoiler 
Twice Buer and the poison immunity has cover my cloven-hooved butt.

Reflex  (1d20+8)[ 19 ] 
 


Even as the warning goes out he is met with the unfamiliar sensation of severe acid burns.

  I did not miss this.  
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Even though he manages to avoid the worst of the acid spray, Tal feels a light burn and can tell some of his fur has been singed, notwithstanding Merrick's protective magics.    I think they already gathered that, Merrick   .  The choking, poisonous fumes are worse, as he feels them sapping his strength.  
   Our turn, abomination!    he thinks "outloud," not sure if a mindless creature can even "hear" him. He pads first to one side and then leaping over the pool, slashing at the thing's underside as he passes.
 
 Spoiler 
Assuming from Lan's description that he headed to the NW corner, Tal will pad a little to the SW and then leap to the NE corner, so we'll at least divide up the party and make it harder to target everyone with AOEs. Got a 10' reach, so only need to make a 10' (DC 40) vertical jump to hit something 20' up. With the Str drain, there's actually a remote chance he could fail:

  Jump  - (1d20+38)[ 43 ]  (This would be a most unfortunate time for a Nat. 1.)

Assuming that works, it's Dancing Mongoose time: 6 claw attacks.

  claw  - (1d20+17)[ 29 ]    damage  - (2d6+15)[ 26 ]    insubstantiality  - (1d2)[ 1 ]  (1s miss)
  claw  - (1d20+17)[ 25 ]    damage  - (2d6+15)[ 23 ]    insubstantiality  - (1d2)[ 2 ]  (1s miss)
edit: 28 to hit, 26 damage
  claw  - (1d20+17)[ 22 ]    damage  - (2d6+15)[ 26 ]    insubstantiality  - (1d2)[ 1 ]  (1s miss)
  claw  - (1d20+17)[ 26 ]    damage  - (2d6+15)[ 24 ]    insubstantiality  - (1d2)[ 1 ]  (1s miss)
  claw  - (1d20+17)[ 18 ]    damage  - (2d6+15)[ 23 ]    insubstantiality  - (1d2)[ 1 ]  (1s miss)
  claw  - (1d20+17)[ 29 ]    damage  - (2d6+15)[ 21 ]    insubstantiality  - (1d2)[ 2 ]  (1s miss)
edit: 32 to hit, 34 damage

(That's  -3 from str drain and  +1 from  haste  on to-hit and  -3 from str drain  +2 from favored enemy on damage.)
This attack penetrates DR/magic.
If 2 or more claws hit, rend doubles the damage.

 Edit: Hmph! Not the best rolls, but if a 25 will hit at least I managed to land 2 and do rending. 

Edit2: assuming both claws hit, that’s 60, doubled to 120 damage
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan smirked inwardly as the dragon attacked the group, thankful they looked none the worse for wear but satisfied he had escaped the acid cloud.  Tapping into his chronocharm, he sprinted a quick distance and rapidly launched several force javelins towards the ghastly dragon.

 
 Activate Horizon Walker (swift) to move 1/2 speed (30’) w/o AOO to close within 30’.  Full action to attack (PBS, Rapid shot, Favored enemy, Skirmish, Bane, Deadly Aim (-3 for +6), and Haste in play).
  Att 1  - (1d20+22)[ 27 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+12)[ 14 ] +  Bane  - (2d6)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 11 ] = 34 
  Att 2  - (1d20+17)[ 26 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+12)[ 13 ] +  Bane  - (2d6)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 24 ] = 47 
  Att 3  - (1d20+12)[ 18 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+12)[ 15 ] +  Bane  - (2d6)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 47 
  RS  - (1d20+22)[ 39 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+12)[ 13 ] +  Bane  - (2d6)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 17 ] = 36 
  Haste  - (1d20+22)[ 42 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+12)[ 13 ] +  Bane  - (2d6)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 28 ] = 48 or 63 if a 29 confirms 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband
Effects: Haste (+1 AC, Ref, 30' move, extra attack w/full; 13 rounds); true seeing (9 rounds); Feat: Deadly Aim; +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC); Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min)
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina winces and covers her face as the searing cloud of acid vapours washes over her. She takes a deep breath, ignoring the the skin splitting and cracking as it does so and she moves swiftly sideways , her gloves and circlet flaring together as the gloves of the starry sky release a flurry of tony orbs of force as she channels her power through them, the circlet allowing a flurry of orbs! Moving 40ft to the side to scatter she call out,  "Try me beast I defy your weak magics..." 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Know Devotion vs Undead  (1d20+25)[ 44 ] 
Standard: Magic missile  (5d4+5)[ 17 ]  +  (2d6)[ 4 ]  bane spell
Swift (circlet): Magic missile  (5d4+5)[ 17 ]  +  (2d6)[ 11 ]  bane spell

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  106/125 +
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield+3 Dragon skin =  35 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Greater Luminous Armour (-4 to hit, +12AC)  24 hours
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour
Heart of Air  (+10ft Jump) 12 hours
Dragon skin (Black)
Shield
Mirror Image 6 images
Fly 14 mins
Knowledge Devotion +4



Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +2 dex+3 nat +5 sacred = 40

Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC) [Mirriana]; Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min) [Merrick/Elkist]

 Abilities 
(ACTIVE) Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
 [Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
 
DrK
The party respond with ferocious abandon against the ethereal beast floating in the air above them. Tal claws at it leaping up, some of his claws making contact, others passing through its wraith like form. Merrick sending out a pulse of quickening magic to boost the allies before Elkist, Lan and Zarina lash out with attacks of pure force. A flurry of enhanced magic missiles slam into its chest from Zarina whilst from Lan a flurry of force javelins tear off vast ethereal chunks of its wispy body. Even as its seeks to float back down to the acidic pool Elkist strides forward holding aloft her holy symbol and a palpable wave of righteous force emanates from her shredding the last few misty parts of the beast!

The cavern is silent now, save for thed ripping of mud and acidici ichors as you look around. There is little of value left in the cavern, several gems (4000gp in total) have survived the acid wraith and destruction wrought upon the lair by Ilthanes brood but the majority of the coins and weapons/armour are pitted, corroded and melted into a single mass of little worth. However there are two adamantine potions bottles partially buried in the laboratory that when examined by Zarina and Merrick hold the promise of great alchemical power!

 
 Spoiler: Ilthane's Potions 


#1: Your eyes turn into that of dragon's eyes with vertical eyelids and deep amethyst iris. THe drinker gains a +1 inherent bonus to Strength and Constitution
#2: Ridges of sharp bone appear above your eyebrows (think klingon) and you gain a reptialian frill under you chin. The drinker gains a +2 inherent bonus to charisma
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

" I wonder if this lair might benefit from some holy sanctification. By the look of it some horrid things have taken place. "

A small twinge of regret nags at Merrick. He had hoped to delve the dragon's alchemical knowledge, but it appeared her hubris had ensured her wisdom followed her to the Abyss.

 
 Spoiler: Clarity Cuz I am not Hasted in Wit 
Are these permanent effect potions, or regular Splendor/Strength/Wisdom/Cunning potions with flair?
 
RCgothic
"Unfortunate I didn't come prepared to consecrate an area today," I reply to Merrick. "To be honest I had hoped for a little more in the way of dragon treasure."

I gather up the scattered coins and potions to distribute. "I suggest 1000gp or a potion each? Personally I won't be wanting one of the potions, I like my body the way it is!"

"Does anyone need healing? Or restoration from that creature's strength draining vapours? I can cast a couple of Restoration spells now, and I need one for myself, or a I can cast a mass version for everyone if necessary from a higher level."
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina breathes a sigh of relief as the creature explodes into mist and vanishes. She looks at the others,  "A strange creature. I suspect it began as another spirit of some kind that Ilthane used in her alchemies before it becae corrupted by the manner of  its death and the vile alchemy she was practicing."  Finding the strange alchemical potions she eyes them with some suspicion and shakers her head.  "Hmm, not something I would recommened,"  she strokes the scales on her shoulders,  "I do not mind the draconic appearance for a short while but I would not trust my body to potions made by such a beast." 

As they conclude the searching she flies out of the hole back into the swampy surrounding in the Traitors' Graves and glances at the others as she hovers in the mist glowing softly.  "I hesitate to say it but I guess we return to the city, although I would like to investigate the Cult of the Ebon Triad. I know you have discovered evidence of the cult under Diamond Lake and it it was Alhaster had me investigate in Greyhawk. We have seen activity here of the Ebon Triad..."  she pauses, mind dwelling on the brutal public execution,  "And I cannot help but think there is some link between the evils we chase the Ebon Triad."  Looking at Elkist and Mirriana she asks them,  "Elkist? Mirriana? What say you? We have the clues about the Priest of St Cuthbert and also the rumours within the city itself as a starting place." 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  106/125 +
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield+3 Dragon skin =  35 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Greater Luminous Armour (-4 to hit, +12AC)  24 hours
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour
Heart of Air  (+10ft Jump) 12 hours
Dragon skin (Black)
Shield
Mirror Image 6 images
Fly 14 mins
Knowledge Devotion +4



Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +2 dex+3 nat +5 sacred = 40

Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC) [Mirriana]; Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min) [Merrick/Elkist]

 Abilities 
(ACTIVE) Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
 [Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ We should follow the priest’s leads. Illthane was more of a loose end we needed to tie up. Kyuss and Dragotha demand our attention now. ”

He flies up and joins Zarina at her lofty perch. Looking out at the despotic city he frowns.

“ A tyrant like Zeech would not like a dragon infestation in his fair city. We might be able to curry a favour from him if we show the reptile problem have been dealt with. ”

  Or they were in league and we’ll tip our hand to Kyuss. Eggs and omelettes.   
DrK
With the beast's dealt with the party head back into the city. The oppressive nature of the devilish city immediately weighing down upon them. Trooping through the town doesn't take very long as they potter through the city. The streets closing in around you, the statues smaller and a little chipped and battered. As you head into the town its finally MErrick who's slightly deranged mind manages to connect some of the dots giving thought to the suggestion that the "sinners sanctum" a house where diseases are to be healed or those diseased go to die may be a good point to start your search for the Triad, intimaley associated with disease as they are. The Sinners Sanctumn is supposed to sit atop the Temple to the Cudgel that the notes of Baevard spoke of so it is likley that the rogue archmage once visited this location.


Soon a faint stench can be smelled as you can see a small building standing near in the centre of a small square without anything nearby. A rikety wooden cart parked outside has a trio of bodies upon it, 2 marked with disease like spots. The other that of an old grey haired person. A small wooden sign and the sign of Wee Jas mark the place as a house where death is known to frequent. A few scattered city goers looks suprised at you all as you approach the wooden door. As you reach it the stench of sickness and death washes out, the moans and groans of a dozen weak, feeble and ill people and the faint words of a woman muttering under her breath. Dare you enter?
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Buer and Astaroth have guided Merrick to this place. The twisted Angel of healing repulsed by the suffering, the fallen guardian of cities resigned to such installations.

“ A hospice where the unwanted go to die. A simple cadre of clerics to a True god would make this a place of comfort within days. ”

Merrick was not sure if he said that out loud. His head had become home to more and more conversations lately.
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"If anyone doesn't want to come in here, I'll understand," I say as I cross the threshold, now clad once more in a simple traveling outfit having rinsed and stowed my heavier armour away once more before re-entering the city.
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Tal shrugs, taking his place beside Mir. Illness, like so many other maladies, holds no threat to him. With a thought, he shapeshifts to his less-threatening human form.   No sense frightening the sick.  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina pauses and looks at the building and the sense of decay leaching from within.  "This makes sense I guess. Balakarde's notes referenced the works of Rorsch a Priest of the Cudgel who was killed and his temple stolen by a creature known as Mother Maggot. Balakarde when he came hear sought Lashona of course, and he went onto to find Kyuss after that or at least that is what Manzorian claims. But his notes detailed that he believed the Cult of the Ebon Triad was set up here by a powerful agent of Kyuss, although to what end I do not know." 

She looks around cautiously,  "We should take a care. The house of Sinners Sanctum has a dark reputation. The sick do not come for healing, they come to die in peace as the mistress who runs this place Furpotia is mad. She believes she was chosen by Zeech to tend the sick and the dying and is rumoured to be insane mixing rancid water and strange plants to relieve the pain of the dying." 
 "The stench of illness here keeps people away but Balakrde's notes had spoken that Mother Maggot thrived in the dying flesh of the city, the crippled god like a maggot in the rotting flesh so it seems a good point to start. In all honesty the from Manzorian's thoughts it seemed here or the Traitor's Graves seemed the most likely places for the Cult of the ebon Triad, or at least their rulership from Mother Maggot to be hiding." 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  106/125 +
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield+3 Dragon skin =  35 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Greater Luminous Armour (-4 to hit, +12AC)  24 hours
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour
Heart of Air  (+10ft Jump) 12 hours
Dragon skin (Black)



Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +2 dex+3 nat = 27



 Abilities 
(ACTIVE) Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
 [Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
 
DrK
Zarina falls silent as she follows Mirriana across the threshold, drawing her green travelling cloak around her to try and disguise the glow from the luminous armour even further. Inside the threshold is a great stench of death and decay. The ramshackle building seems to be rotting as much as the inhabitants with mould and mildew on many surfaces. In each of the four rooms branching off the hallway are rooms with a half dozen low cots with filthy blankets and about half occupied by a variety of people in various states of illness, sores, pustules and dry coughing masking the low moans of suffering.

As you enter a rusty bell jangles by the door and an shuffling old woman appears at the end of the corridor. She is an old crone with a hunched back, lank grey hair and a filth matted grey dress with Zeech's coat of arms vaguely visible. She pauses,  "Hello... has the prince sent you with my potions? he said so many years ago be would supply more potions to remove the suffering... But I make my own until he sends his."  She sways, and you realise that both of her eyes are milky and she is near blind.   "Who would you be? if you have come to embrace the end then find a bed. there are plenty, the followers of the Ruby Witch remove those who have passed the veil each three day." 
RCgothic
"Which day did they last collect?" Mirriana asks. "We're looking for someone who may have been here."
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan hated the place.  A death house like this was anathema to a born survivor like the Halfling.  He stood with arms crossed, keeping just close enough to the others to benefit from the disease protection.  As the others dealt with the old woman, his eyes swept back and forth constantly, looking anywhere but at the blind patron.

 
 Keeping to the back and on look out duty.
  Search  - (1d20+19)[ 37 ] 
  Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 25 ] 
  Listen  - (1d20+19)[ 36 ] 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC); Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min)
 
DrK
The woman is insane and grins at Mirriaina,  "My dear, they collect every day for the sweet release is granted to all who come here, but some faster or slower. Here child, come and drink of the poppy, you look pale and it will restore your complexion..."  The woman offers Mirriana filthy wooden up filled with a white milky sap. Although she seems to think it will help you would suspect it will not do you much good.

Ignoring the crazy lady its Lan's sharp eyes who as he stalks soundlessly through some of the depressing dying rooms spies the outline of a door cunningly hidden behind what appears to have once been a shrine of sorts (although its impossible to say what it was for) but is now a large stone table piled high with herbal detritus and glasses and flasks. But the secret door appears to hinge open a part of the wall and floor and Lan would suspect lead to stairs descending....



 Good 37 on the search there! 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan looked disgusted at the cup being offered to Mir.  Turning away, he paced the room far away from the woman.  As his eyes swept the room, he paused as he saw the telltale outline of a door, almost hidden by an old shrine and a table covered in crap.  Pausing his search, he waved a hand at the others and pointed to the old shrine, pantomiming with his hands a door, and walking down stairs with his fingers.  He pointed to the crazy old woman and gave the sign to 'shoo.'

 
 Woot!  Time to head down for more clues!  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (120’, 7 hours); Mass Sacred Protection (+5 AC); Mass Resist Energy (acid 140 min; cold 140 min)
 
RCgothic
"No, thank you," I reply, politely pushing the cup away. "My partner assures me she likes my complexion the way it is." I nod the Lan to convey that I've understood what he's said, hoping that maybe Elkist or Merrick might be quick enough to think of something to get rod of her.
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Noticing Lan is off doing whatever thing halflings do to find things (he presumed it inate since the scout could always do it), Merrick draws the attention of his mad hostess.

“ Yes! Please grant me release with your sacred brew! Tell me of your great works so I may too exult in the Ruby Witch’s wisdom! ”

Certain Buer will alleviate any adverse effect of the concoction, Merrick braces himself for the taste.

 
 Spoiler: Bluff 
 (1d20+9)[ 23 ]  is needed. I’m only telling her what she wants to hear.
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Tal too finds the surroundings generally revolting -- the surrender to death and decay. He uses his senses to scan those present, looking for anything that should not be or is not quite as it appears.

Silently, in the minds of each of the suffering he asks,    Do you want to live?    (excluding our mad hostess, of course).

 
 Spoiler 
Mindsight just to make sure there's nothing really strange here -- like demons or angels hiding among the sick;  detect evil  for much the same purpose -- searching for  powerful  signatures, not run-of-the-mill alignment indications.
 


Noticing Lan's pantomiming, he asks,    What? Door? Hey, everyone, Lan thinks he's found a hidden door.   
DrK
Casting his mind about the building and letting his other senses seek out evil Talsien can sense no evil in the woman and the minds nearby all seem "typical" of the masses of humanity that dwell within this thoroughly unpleasant city.  Merrick takes a direct course of action picking up on Mirriana and Lan's urgings as he steps into a different room and accepts the cup from the madwoman, the taste is vile, bitter and there is  brief moment of burning before he can feel Buer's whispering in his mind as the burning eases and Buer's blessing washes the toxins free from him

The madwoman grins,  "Oh, it works, you will be washed clean from the disease. Come dearie, lie down..."  she offers half trying to drag Merrick to one of the disgusting filth encrusted cots in the room.

In the other room where Lan found the shrine he is easily able to open the catch and slide back the stone shrine on some well oiled castors that allow easy movement of the several hundred pounds of rock, suspicious that they are still so smooth running. On the floor, surrounded by imagery of the Ebon triad, runs and pictographs of triangles and the merging of the aspects of Hextor, Erthynul and Vecna  merging into a supreme being. The hole itself is around 7ft in diamater with two iron ladders that seem solid and well built descending into darkness....

 the pit with ladders is &gt; 60ft deep where people's darkvision run out 
redzimmer
 Merrick 
  I will keep up this charade for now, but please call me if things become dire.  

Laying on the soiled pallet, Merrick feigns drug-addled stupor.

 
 Spoiler: Let’s Bluff again! 
 (1d20+9)[ 12 ]  all the while readying invisibility.

How many rounds have elapsed since casting mass protection from elements?
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan peered down into the depths, fully aware that something had been this way regularly ... and likely waited for them at the bottom.  He knew the only way forward was down, and he was the best suited to leading the trip ... but that didn't mean he liked it.  He cast his thoughts back at Tal.    Heyo furball, I'm gonna scout ahead.  Let the others know ... and keep an ear out for the screams.   

He whispered a few words of power and disappeared from sight as he started to move forward.

 
 Cast invisibility, move down.  I think I had the wrong numbers for some reason, but I think Deeper Darkvision actually lets Lan see 90'.  Scouting away!  And Lan is okay if Tal wants to join him :)
  Move Silently  - (1d20+21)[ 29 ] ,   Hide  - (1d20+21)[ 31 ] 
  Listen  - (1d20+19)[ 26 ] ,   Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 38 ] ,   Search  - (1d20+19)[ 36 ] 

A few questions
- How long since the fight with the dragons / acid wrath?
- How long does the Mass Sacred Protection last?
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours);
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Tal relays the message to the others and slinks forward to follow the little person downward in case he needs help or encounters some fun. He takes care to remain well back -- far enough to let Lan enjoy the benefits of his stealth yet near enough Tal can quickly reach him if he finds too much fun.
 
 Spoiler 
Heading downward, keeping Lan at 50' to 60' distance -- that's 15 to 18 meters 😉
  Lan is usually pretty good about finding fun.  
 
DrK
Merrick lays in the bed, groaning and muttering as he feigns illness (rather badly) but still well enough to leave his crazed nursemaid tending to him, fetching a filthy soaking cloth to mop his brow.

 
 Spoiler: Spell effects 

Its been ~3 hours since the Acid Wraith so all min/level or 10mins/level have expired. So the resist energies and the sacred protection have expired
 


Lan followed by Tal starts to descend the ladder, the walls of the tunnel closing in around him as the strange alien language covers the walls and if he squints seems to almost writhe and move under its own volition. Although neither he nor Tal can make head nor tail of it.

After some 50ft he starts to make out the ladder ending and the chamber beneath. The ladder leaves the tunnel and decends to the floor through the dome point of the chamber, the circular chamber some 30ft in diameter and 30ft tall (at the point where the ladder enters). The walls of the domed rooms are made of solid looking red brick and lined with stone beams that arch up to the hole where Lan enters the room. The chamber appears empty save for 5 rotting prayers mats on the floor of the chamber, each bearing a simple black triangle symbol. A narrow hallway heads East from the chamber, a pile of rope near the entrance dumped atop on of the prayer mats and the corridor itself vanishing into unnatural dimness.

At the top Zarina looks at the others and calls quietly down,  "We are here if you need us. Shout if you need assistance,." 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Still invisible, Lan focused down the hallway, his unseen purple eyes seeking out signs of anything disturbing the dust or lurking in the dark.  He thought back to Tal,   This screams evil Devil worshippers... or hidden cult.  Gonna need someone who can read squiggly wall script ... or knows what a black triangle stands for.

You sense anything alive down here?  

He slipped forward a bit further towards the passage, circling around to avoid an evil blast from down the hall.  He checked the mats visually, and looked closely at the rope, wondering what that was for.  If nothing else stood out, he checked the passage for traps as he move slowly forward, hugging the walls as he went.

 
 Only a few minutes of invis, so not wasting too much time with thoughts and investigations
  Move silently  - (1d20+21)[ 41 ] ,   Hide  - (1d20+21)[ 31 ] 
  Listen  - (1d20+19)[ 34 ] ,   Search  - (1d20+19)[ 32 ] ,   Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 35 ]   
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 33 (26-&gt;21)  FF/Touch: 21/21 (16/16)
F +16 R +21 (+20) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot/Search +19 Move Silently/Hide +21 Tumble +35 D Device +21
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours); Invisibility (5 min)
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Knowing he won't match Lan's stealth, Tal nevertheless creeps up as quietly as he can to join the little man and extend his senses further.    Nothing yet.    He sniffs the air, both literally and metaphorically.
DrK
As Talsien and Lan look around the room the strange shifter can sense evil emanating from "something" at the far end of the hall that had been leading to the East, but down the corridor pas the alcoves nothing can be seen. Zarina standing at the top of the shaft looks at the symbols, a grin as she looks to Mirriana and Elkist,  "The triangle I believe is a representation of the Ebon Triad, the unholy confluence of Vecna, Hextor and Erythnul."  ...

Any further conjecture is suddenly cut short as trouble breaks out from below. As Talsien and Lan stand in the centre of the room, the low domed ceiling and rotten prayer rugs smelling musty the piles of ropes 20ft away in the by the door suddenly rear up! The ropes coiling and wrapping into he semblance of a creature as the hangman golem springs into life! Its spins around, a trail of ropes and knots battering at both the surpised Lan and Talsien!



 
 Spoiler: OOC 

slam vs suprised Tal  (1d20+20)[ 27 ]  dam  (2d8+12)[ 15 ] 
slam vs suprised Lan  (1d20+20)[ 29 ]  dam  (2d8+12)[ 24 ] 
 

 Init

Lan, Mirriana, Elkist
Hangman Golem
rest of the party

 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan grunted in pain as the ropes formed into a giant creature and slammed him.  Even his abundance of caution didn't stop the thing's speed from surprising him, and the cracking of a rib told him he'd feel this afterwards.  To Tal, he thought   GET HELP ... and rip that thing a new one!  

Using the momentum of the blow to roll out of reach, Lan popped up to his feet and flung three force javelins at the creature.  His knowledge of constructs aided his strikes.

 
 Tumble:  44  to move 10’ back out of reach as a free action.  Full round for full attack w/rapid shot
  Att 1  - (1d20+22)[ 36 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+6)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 16 ] = 23 
  Att 2  - (1d20+17)[ 24 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+6)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 16 ] = 26 
  a Rapid shot  - (1d20+22)[ 30 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+6)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 18 ] = 28 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 71/95 AC: 26 (22)  FF/Touch: 20/21 (16/17)
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Not wanting to alert their mad "hostess" (lest she be in league with their foes), Merrick casts  invisibility  on himself when she is not looking and flies towards the secret entrance.

  I am coming! Such a construct will resist my magic, but I may still be of assistance.  
DrK
Down n the ruined shrine there is a burst of movement as the savage little halfling bounds backwards, Lan's hands flickering as he throws devastating javelins of force at the golem shredding ropes and its form as he deals incredible damage to the durable monster. It lurches forward, but Tal lies in its path so it casts its ropes out towards the shifter seeking top land a lassoo around his neck!!

 

slam  (1d20+20)[ 40 ]  dam  (2d8+8)[ 14 ] 
slam  (1d20+20)[ 30 ]  dam  (2d8+8)[ 20 ] 

On a hit try and grapple  (1d20+23)[ 34 ]  vs Tal  (1d20)[ 18 ]  +??? if grappled constriction  (2d8+12)[ 20 ] 
 

Hearing the commotion below Merrick waits for the woman to urn her back before muttering a simple charm and vanishing from sight.
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Hearing the chaos from below Zarina steps to the edge of the hole and looks down, in the dim light she see's ropes appear wrapping and Tal and beating at the shifter. Uttering a prayer to the Lightning lord she steps to the edge and jumps, plumetting down the ladder, before with a flairing of her cloak her  body of air  swirls around her and she lands cat like slowing the last few feet into the centre of the chamber.

Flipping forward she calls upon Heronious to guide her blade as she channels her Jade phoneix power into the ancient blade that flickers into life with a roaring fire

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 



Fall (free to activate Heart of Air) - then move to attack the Hangman Golem tumbling  (1d20+16)[ 18 ]  to avoid AoO
Know (arcana) for Devotion  (1d20+21)[ 39 ] 

Attack using Divine Surge Searing blade  (1d20+17)[ 34 ]  dam  (1d12+5)[ 9 ]  and  (3d6+10)[ 19 ]  +  (8d8)[ 28 ] 
 - Both + Knowledge devotion 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  106/125 +
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield =  32 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Greater Luminous Armour (-4 to hit, +12AC)  24 hours
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +2 dex+3 nat = 27



 Abilities 
(ACTIVE) Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost) 
 
Stegyre
 Tal 

Tal winces slightly as both blows land --   Better me than little Lan, at least   -- but his claws parry the attempt at choking him. He yearns to taunt his foe, yet his telepathy tells him this is no more than a magical machine, devoid of any sense. Might as well try taunting a boulder or a snare.

   My turn, now. I wonder if it burns?   

He leaps at the tangled mass, all four claws trailing wisps of flame . . .
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Not sure I even need a tumble check to get closer, unless its reach is 15' or more, but   tumble  - (1d20+26)[ 34 ] , followed by the obligatory   jump  - (1d20+41)[ 52 ] , swift action to activate  burning blade , and

  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 34 ]    cutting damage  - (2d6+16)[ 23 ]  and   fire damage  - (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 45 ]    cutting damage  - (2d6+16)[ 23 ]  and   fire damage  - (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 36 ]    cutting damage  - (2d6+16)[ 20 ]  and   fire damage  - (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 39 ]    cutting damage  - (2d6+16)[ 27 ]  and   fire damage  - (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 

Rending should double the cutting damage as long as two or more attacks hit.

Edit: not sure what DR it may have, but this attack only penetrats DR/magic.  Next  attack, though . . .
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan snorted as the ropes ignored him to engage with Tal.  Good luck lassoing that ball of teeth and claws.  In the meantime, he moved quickly to the left, launching another series of javelins at the creature, his aim good enough to not worry about hitting his companion.  Hopefully the others were on their way ... and not playing dolls with the crazy old woman upstairs.

 
 Move action to go 20' and remain w/in 30' of the rope monster.  Standard action greater manyshot, w/point blank and construct enemy
  Att 1  - (1d20+18)[ 30 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+6)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 25 ] = 34 
  Att 2  - (1d20+18)[ 21 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+6)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 24 ] = 34 
  Att 3  - (1d20+18)[ 27 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+6)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 12 ] = 30 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 71/95 AC: 26 (28)  Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22)
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

The commotion below snaps Elkist out of her discussion with Zarina and Mirriana. Speaking a word of elemental magic she conjures a vortex of air to swiftly yet safely carry her down the shaft to the catacombs below.

With Tal &amp; Zarina engaged in a furious melee fight with the rope-like thing and dangerous braids whipping about there is no way for her to get close. A short incantation spurs everyone on and gives them another opportunity to strike. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Swift: Cast updraft
Move: Descend/ advance a little/ draw weapon
Standard: Cast Mass Snake's Swiftness. Everyone gets another melee or ranged attack.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan smiled as the wave of energy washed over him and he threw one more javelin.

 
    Extra attack  - (1d20+18)[ 24 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+6)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 19 ] = 26 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 71/95 AC: 26 (28)  Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22)
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, invisibility, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband
Effects: +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
DrK
Elkist falls from the sky following Zarina as plumes of flames erupt from the cavern beneath. Flurries of javelins streak from Lan's hands, each one tearing chunks from the rope formed golem as Zarina and Tal ignite into flames attacking with savagery. It looks to be almost over, the towering form draping ropes of trailing flames staggering and tottering before with Elkist's encouragement Lan's final javelin flies straight and true into the eye socket that wasn't already aflame....

Whatever magical animating force fades at that, collapsing into a shapeless of mass of burning silk and hemp rope  that cooks and sizzles before turning to ash

Zarina breathes a sigh of relief,  "A strange thing to find here, I would not have expected to find such a thing down here. It does not seem in keeping with what we have seen of this undead loving cult." 
RCgothic
"A curious guardian," Mirriana agrees. "Let's push forward and see what we can find."

 
 Spoiler 
Mirriana will heal anyone who needs it.
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ Do not be alarmed. I am hovering near you, invisibly, ” Merrick offers.

He readies a flask of liquid fire, in case more magic-defying foes await.
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan rubbed his ribs with a grimace, but didn’t say anything.  He figured he could ask later.  for now, there was scouting to be done.   Well someone doesn’t want to be interrupted ... good chance they know we’re coming.  Tal, keep a mind’s eye out.

Merrick, do you have a spell of wall-climbing?” 

He considered for a moment, then cast another invisibility spell and slipped forward.  He tried to stick to the shadows and walls, uncertain if his spell would be useless again.

 
    Move Silently  - (1d20+22)[ 31 ]    Hide  - (1d20+22)[ 26 ] 
  Listen  - (1d20+19)[ 21 ] ,   Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 33 ] ,   Search  - (1d20+20)[ 32 ] 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 71/95 AC: 26 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Veat 4/5
Effects: invisible (70 min)+10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
DrK
Pushing down the passage you come to another smaller chamber shrouded in darkness, that seems to fight the glowing light emanating from Elkist and Zarina. Inside the small vaulted chamber the ground drops away into a 300ft wide yawning pit. The fifteen foot wide pit is lined with brick and caked with mould and less identifiable encrustations, but in  places where the growths are not too thick strange figures and runes can be seen carved into the brick work.

Zarina examines it and shakes her head,  "I cannot fathom these symbols out, they appear to be from odd and alien beings and are prayers of some sort. We have seen markings like these before in the depths underneath the arena but I cannot read these."  She looks harder,  "Ah, no, I recognise these, They are of the Avolakia, vile and intelligent worm like aberrations that can infest humanoid forms. they are dark and from a far realm but are truly beings of evil with no hope of redemption. as to what they say I cannot even  
 
 Spoiler: DC25 Deciper Script (or comprehend language type effect) 


The writings and runes are Avolakia - a curved tangle of hieroglyphs and wiggles that resembles no other language
The carvings are monstrously vile prayers to their overgod Kyuss! A recurring theme is the the ceremony of the "Ravenous Awakening" where people on a vast scale are animated as undead and then led like cattle into the feasting halls of the Avolakia to be consumed for the power and glory of the worm people.

Deeper reading however suggests problems in the House of Kyuss - Kyuss their God is trapped in a large stone monolith, he had broken free 1500 years ago but was encircled in black stone chains by a force the worms runes call "the enemy"... and it has a picture that reminds you of the layout oft he Spire of Long Shadows.

More obscure mentions name something as the Writhing Tabernacle - a most hoy site of Kyuss worship and a place to pilgrammage to for the Avolakia high priests and that the Tabernacle is protected by Kyuss's most mighty servant - Dragotha!!!
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

After the battle, Tal shakes his fur out. Half a minute of concentration, and his wounds rapidly heal, cuts visibly closing, bruises fading, and he's as good as new.    Let's   , he nods in answer to Lan's suggestion. Creeping down the hall to the next chamber, Tal can only look on in confusion at the strange scrawling on the walls. It was not so very long ago that *all* writing looked like that to him. He looks to the others for an explanation.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
24 seconds of full-round's concentration, taking 10 on the rolls, and he's all healed.
 
RCgothic
"One moment Zarina, I have a spell prepared for this," I say, stepping up to the inscriptions. A quick prayer to Mystara and the alien writings swim into focus.

"Prayers to their vile god Kyuss", I say, mouth twisting in disgust at what I'm reading. "Here - a ritual called the Ravenous Awakening, where the worm infested are led into the halls of the Avolakia to be consumed. And... here..." I point to a different section of the text. "... it seems Kyuss broke free from the monolith about 1500 years ago, but a force called   the enemy  trapped him again inside black stone chains. That sounds very much like the walls surrounding the spire site."

"And... here! There is mention of a place they call  The Writhing Tabernacle , a most holy site for the followers of Kyuss. It says here it's guarded by Dragotha! We know Dragotha some Kyuss, so if he's there that would explain why his followers find it sacred. If we can locate thid tabernacle, then we'll surely find Dragotha and Kyuss himself!"

"I'm not sure there's anything more to be read from these texts," I say, turning back to the others. "Let's push on and see what else we can find. ... And then maybe afterwards I can bleach my eyes," I mutter.

 
 Spoiler 

Cast Comprehend Languages, 140 mins.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

The halfling nodded to himself, whispering,   "Great.  Find the site, find the dragon.  But then what?  And who is this enemy?"  

He slipped forward once more into scout mode ...

 
  Sneaky, sneaky
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 71/95 AC: 26 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Veat 4/5
Effects: invisible (70 min)+10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ Whomever or whatever, they were only successful in delaying Kyuss,  Merrick muses invisibly.

“ This golem wasn’t just guarding a prayer book. Something down here needs disintegrating or banishing.  ”
DrK
Pushing on the group descends down the spiral stairs that walk down into the depths of the crypt following the plunging circular borehole covered in Avolokia iconography and kyussian worship. All the way down for some 200ft deep it plunges and in all of that the madness seems to increase until the scribblings are so maddened as to be illegible and impossible to understand.  This disturbing Well of Tryptich Knowledge eventually empties through the ceiling of an immense chamber, its domed roof a full 50ft over the black flloor worn smooth by the passage of countless creatures. The stairs cut into the rock face descend to the  western end of the chamber.

Alcoves are lit up by the flickering armour of Elkist and Zarina and illuminate wretches statues of worm like creatures coiled around pillars of skulls and bones and a single massive object fills much of the eastern wall - a colossal statue of a three headed six armed monstrosity. Reminiscent of the  fragment of the Ebon God that Mirrianna and Talsien had seen so many months ago in the mines under Diamond Lake. two of the arms appear broken, a hand missing from the left and right armsand in the face currently facing you, one depicting a slavering bestial feral creature with upturned fangs, a shaggy mane and long wulfen face only one glittering green eye is present.

 

As Lan slides ahead invisibly its clear that nothing has perceived him as he reaches the floor of the domed chamber, the statue some 80ft away at the far end of the chamber looks still, although imposing and terrifying. To Lan's sharp eyes, there also appears to be a small curtained partition behind the statue (likley some sort of priests private chambers.) Behind him, paused on the stairs leading down the western wall Zarina pauses, blade in hand and her other clutches her holy symbol of Heronious.  "THis place feels evil, I can feel the pressure of it here like the vile breath of Kyuss itself."   As she gazes at the statue she shakes her head...  "It make so little sense. The statue there, a bestial face of Erthnul, the six arms of Hextor and the missing hand and eye depicting Vecna, but the writings on the wall seek of Kyuss gaining power from the Avolkia.."  She glances back at Elkist and Mirriana,  "Could it be that Kyuss has co-opted the Ebon God, stealing its power, stealing its followers?" 

Advancing further she watches the area warily as she heads down the stairs to the floor of the chamber.....
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ When you fought the Triad, did any of you happen to bring a body part of theirs? Maybe Acererak could coax an answer out of them. ” Merrick asks Mir, Tal and Lan.
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan did not like any of this.  At all.  He was used to traveling through some pretty dangerous places, as scout, explorer and hunter.  But this place whispered death in a way that shook him ... almost as much as the worm temple.  At Merrick's question, he blinked for a moment, then peered at him with a deadpan gaze that bored through the wizard.    "Sorry, no.  I didn't get any souvenirs."  

He continued to move forward cautiously, Zarina's questions echoing in his mind.  He was used Living gods?  Stealing their powers?  This was so far beyond what a simple halfling was supposed to be involved with.  Gods don't care about scouts, explorers or hunters ...

 
  Still sneaky, and approaching off the path for as long as he can.  Scanning the walls and area to make sure they don't get jumped by anything ... but the statue dominates his attention.  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 71/95 AC: 26 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Veat 4/5
Effects: invisible (70 min)+10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
Stegyre
 Tal 

 
 Originally Posted by redzimmer 
  Merrick 

“ When you fought the Triad, did any of you happen to bring a body part of theirs? Maybe Acererak could coax an answer out of them. ” Merrick asks Mir, Tal and Lan. 
 

  Eew!   Tal grimaces at Merrick's question, calling to mind as it does the previous encounter with the bizarre figure,  though it feels like it was ages ago . The only remnants he has saved are his scars, physical and mental, he thinks.

   I remember it was a bad fight, after we were already heavily wounded. We were much weaker then, and more innocent. We have grown much since then.    He pauses, considering the statute,    But perhaps so has . . . It.   

He "looks" around the chamber warily, scanning it with his special senses, as he picks his way gingerly behind Lan, wary of attack that may come from any direction, but particularly focused on the dominating, obscene statue. Seeing the thing, he cannot help but reflect on past comrades -- Hal, GoatTracker, Claire -- wondering where they are now, doing their part to frustrate the Age of Worms.

 
 Spoiler 
Once you get through the melodrama, Tal's just doing the usual: detect evil and mind sight.  Damn , that was a long time ago. I'm glad we have the threads to have a record.
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist moves forward with the party, similarly alert and suspicious as she keeps her position at Mirriana's side. Uttering a righteous prayer she growls softly as her features subtly shift to resemble those of a hunting great cat.

Standing wary she waits for the others to determine the best course of action. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Standard:  Detect spirits 
Move: Descend/ advance with the party/ draw weapon
Standard: Cast  Bite of the Weretiger  - it's Drizzt meets Guenhwyvar
 
RCgothic
With Elkist at my side I advance towards the statue cautiously, scanning for anything that might indicate an illusion, magic, or evil presence.
DrK
Its as they expected. Lan skirts the edge of the chamber, spying a glint of gold and stacked chests through the curtains as he advances invisibly and  ghostlike into the room. As the others advance in a loose line, forming a V with Mirrian and Elkist leading the way the statue glows a dull red in Elkist and Talsien's  detection , the thing a haven for a mssive and corrupt evil sprirt.

As the party (aside from the invisible halfling) get 60ft from the massive thing it shudders, a scream ripping across the chamber as you all feel a great pressure filling the chamber and a sense of pure evil filling the air, the air thick with its stench for a second before it seems to coalsce around the tri-partite statue of evil tha ripples. Stone turning to mottled dark flesk and the eye on the face glowing a dark green!

 OOC

Init:
Mirriana, Lan,
STATUE OF EVIL
Elkist, Zarina, Merrick and Tal

Its 60ft from most of the party, ~20ft from Lan who is at that end of the room

 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan growled inwardly, having felt this was going to end in something bad.  The thing looked to be no small challenge, so he called upon the full weight of his abilities to add his combat.  Given the waves of evil emanating from the statue-made-flesh, Lan elected to forgo any parlay.

 
  Activate travel devotion.  Move 30' as swift action (stay w/in 30' of the creature).  Full attack (PBS, Rapid Shot, Imp Skirmish)

  Att 1  - (1d20+22)[ 36 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 15 ] = 25 
  Att 2  - (1d20+17)[ 27 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 35 
  Att 3  - (1d20+12)[ 26 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 32 
  Rapid shot  - (1d20+22)[ 40 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 34 

EDIT: Added damage for being arcane 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 71/95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: travel devotion (10 rounds, move as swift); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
RCgothic
" Mass Shield of Faith !" I cast, enhancing the party's protections. At the same time I activate my aura of protection whilst staying close to Elkist, keeping our mutual shield wall faced towards the enemy.


 
 Spoiler 

Standard: +4 deflection bonus to AC for party except Lan who's a little too far away.

Immediate action: protection devotion. +5 sacred to AC within 30ft.
 
DrK
A blast of magical power radiates from Mirriana as an almost perceptible shimmering bubble of glowing power encapsulates the heroes as they form their shield wall advancing towards the beast. On the side of the room Lan races down, moving swiftly and leaping from the shadows, a flurry of magical javelins slamming into the creature that suddenly lets loose a bellow of rage and pain as multiple javelins bite home, although even from this distance Lan can see some innate toughness of the creature blunting the force of the javelins and ablating some of the damage.

The massive ebon aspect of the Overgod of the Ebon Triad bellows a challenge to the room, a spinning flail spiruitual evil materialising in the air above Lan and spinning towards him as the  creature loses itself in a pure fury and leaps forwards pouncing upon the wall of woman advancing towards it, flecks of saliva that hiss and burn the floor pouring form its mouth!

 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Free action: Standard of hextor - spiritual weapon appears beside Lan
 (1d20+33)[ 35 ]  dam  (1d8+5)[ 11 ]  force
 (1d20+28)[ 46 ]  dam  (1d8+5)[ 8 ]  force
 (1d20+23)[ 37 ]  dam  (1d8+5)[ 7 ]  force
 (1d20+18)[ 19 ]  dam  (1d8+5)[ 13 ]  force


Free Action: Bloodthirst of Erythnul (1/d ay ability that gives big bonuses of various kinds for 1 round)


Full action: Pounce upon Mirriana and Elklist, stopping 15ft away from them

Bite Mirriana  (1d20+38)[ 52 ]  dam  (3d6+29)[ 33 ] 
Claw Mirriana  (1d20+36)[ 40 ]  dam  (1d6+23)[ 27 ] 
Claw Elkist  (1d20+36)[ 53 ]  dam  (1d6+23)[ 25 ] 
Claw Elkist (1d20+36)[ 39 ]  dam  (1d6+23)[ 25 ] 
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina had followed the others in, standing on Mirriana's right and a pace behind her as with the Sword of Aquaa clutched in both hands she gazed about the room, a look of both curiousity and horror in her eyes as she steeled herself for the attack they all suspected was inevitable.  "Lightning Lord give us strength of arms and iron minds..."  she prayed before she jumped slightly as the massive statue/altar breathed dark and evil life into itself and turned to attack them.

Steeling her fear as it thundered towards them, blades and fangs rending at her friends Elkist and Mirriana she could feel the waves of evil emanating from the  thing, as powerful as anything they had felt in the dark caverns under the zigguarat of Kyuss. Steeling herself she allowed the power of magical belt to flow into her infusing her with prenatural speed felt the power of dragons fill her as she grew longs claws and her face shifted into a long fanged maw, rolling forwards she tried to dodge the savage attack she knew would be coming before igniting the blade and slashing repeatedly at the massive creature towering almost three times her height!
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Know Devotion +4
Activate belt of battle 3 charges (Full round action)
Standard: Bite of the weretiger (dragon)
Move: tumble to the things feet  (1d20+18)[ 19 ] 
Swift: Searing blade
Full attack (PA 2)
Attack +17 -2 PA +4 Know +6 Bite = 25
Dam 12 Str +3 swd +4 know + 6 PA = 25

 (1d20+25)[ 42 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 36 ]  + [roll]3d6+10 fire[/roll] 19
 (1d20+20)[ 29 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 31 ]  + [roll]3d6+10 fire[/roll] 15
 (1d20+15)[ 30 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 27 ]  + [roll]3d6+10 fire[/roll]  17



   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  106 / 125  (+30 )
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield =  32 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Greater Luminous Armour (-4 to hit, +12AC)  24 hours
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour
Mass shield of Faith (Mirriana) +4 deflection
Protection Devotion (Mirriana) +5 Sacred AC
Shield + 8 AC
Bite of Weetoger: +12 Str, +6(4) Con +4 Dex, 2 claw attacks, Bite attack, blindfight, power attack, +5 Natural AC

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +4 dex +5 nat 8 shield 4 deflect 5 sacred  = 48



 Abilities 
(ACTIVE) Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ Dispel Magic, ” Merrick chants, focusing on the summoned flail.

Summoning was his business, and seeing rank amateurs attempting wounded his professional pride.

 
 Spoiler: Check 
 (1d20+10)[ 24 ]  vs Spiritual Weapon spell effect
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 
  WHAT???  

The outrage! The  insult ! To be . . .   IGNORED   in the creature's assault?!?!?!?

   FIGHT ME, COWARD!    he mentally screams. " AARRROOOOO! " Leaping to the other side of the beast, claws flashing streaks of flame.
 
 Spoiler 

  jump  - (1d20+41)[ 50 ]    tumble  - (1d20+26)[ 46 ] 

Swift action to activate  Burning Blade  -- fully expect this thing will have fire immunity or resistance, but the visuals! It's all about the visuals, y'know.

  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 39 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 24 ]  and   fire  - (1d6+5)[ 11 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 38 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 23 ]  and   fire  - (1d6+5)[ 9 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 47 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 25 ]  and   fire  - (1d6+5)[ 6 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 28 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 21 ]  and   fire  - (1d6+5)[ 10 ] 

Penetrates DR/magic. Double damage (not fire) if two or more claws hit.

EDIT: Forgot to say, leaping to 10' from the beast in a position to flank with either Lan or (if possible) Mir and Elkist.

Potential crit -- if this thing's vulnerable? I'll put the confirmation roll in OOC.

EDIT 2: And we won't talk about the fumble. Amusing to get a 20 and a 1 in sequence like that.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan grunted in pain as a spectral flail with three heads suddenly appeared next to him, savagely striking the halfling with each end.  Snarling, he sped across, taking advantage of the creature's preoccupation with Mirriana.    That's gonna cost you, you sunnuva ...  

 
  As swift, move 30' (stay w/in 30' of the creature).  Full attack (PBS, Rapid Shot, Imp Skirmish)

  Att 1  - (1d20+22)[ 37 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 20 ] = 28 
  Att 2  - (1d20+17)[ 20 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 32 
  Att 3  - (1d20+12)[ 21 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 14 ] = 22 
  Att RS  - (1d20+22)[ 29 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 26 ] = 34 
I think I had my numbers incorrect - probably -1 damage on each hit last turn.  And those aren't very nice numbers ... 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 71/95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: travel devotion (9 rounds, move as swift); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I weather the creature's attacks stoically, a combination of my armour and Elkist's wards turning aside the worst of the damage. Even so I know we're not going to be able to take much more of this. We have to finish it quickly.

"Tal, tear its arms off!" I exhort, dashing in close to deliver my own strike and braving any more attacks I might have to endure as a result.

 
 Spoiler 

Charge to within reach.  (1d20+17)[ 21 ] +9BaB +3STR +3Enhancement -2Tower Shield +1Morale(HF) +2 Charge +1 Furious Counterstrike
DIVINE SURGE  (1d8+7)[ 14 ]  +3STR +3Enhancement +1 Furious Counterstrike  (8d8)[ 41 ] 

Swift: White Raven Tactics for Tal.
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Mirriana's attack creates just the opening Tal's been looking for! In a fury of spinning claws, he flies up and down the monstrosity's back like a dancing mongoose!
 
 Spoiler 
. . . Because maneuvers come with descriptive names, obviously.

By this point, Tal should be flanking with  somebody , if this thing is flankable, but just in case, I haven't added the +2 to to-hit. Please add if applicable.

Also, at this point, Tal's transmuting weapon property is active, so he penetrates any DR (except, I suppose, epic).

Move action to   jump  - (1d20+41)[ 54 ]  and   tumble  - (1d20+26)[ 31 ] 

Swift action for Dancing Mongoose, giving 2 extra attacks at top BAB:

  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 42 ]  [roll=damage]2d6+16[roll]
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 36 ]  [roll=damage]2d6+16[roll]
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 43 ]  [roll=damage]2d6+16[roll]
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 37 ]  [roll=damage]2d6+16[roll]
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 37 ]  [roll=damage]2d6+16[roll]
  claw  - (1d20+27)[ 40 ]  [roll=damage]2d6+16[roll]

And again, damage is doubled by rending from Tal's giralon arms bind if two or more claws hit.

EDIT: and of course I screwed up the damage rolls. Re-done in OOC.
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

It's terrible claws batter and rend at Elkist's shield and armour as she bounds forward to accompany Mirriana and Tal. A prayer to Heironeous bolsters her as she growls, sword weaving to-and-fro ready to strike. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Swift:  Heart of Earth -&gt; Stoneskin 
Standard: Cast  True Strike 
Move: Close next to Mirriana
 
DrK
Zarina and Tal slash with flaming blades and claws at the massive beast and even though they land multiple blows each one seems ablated by some sort of malevolent force, the blades/claws slowing in  its flesh and the flames guttering and mostly dying at they contact its grey scaly hide. The beast roars and rears up as Mirriana and Elkist crowd around it joining Tal and Zarina and jostling it sword and shield.s  In the far croner Lan leaps over an altar and dives between the curtains pursued by the ghostly flail that seeks to smash him into paste, his mad flight slowing its spinning heads as it  chases him, one of his javlins slamming into its master's back as the glowing flails resist Merrick's efforts to undo them.  The flails chase Lan and spin more at him.

 Vs Lan  (1d20+33)[ 40 ]  dam  (1d8+5)[ 12 ]   (1d20+28)[ 35 ]  dam  (1d8+5)[ 6 ]   (1d20+23)[ 30 ]  dam  (1d8+5)[ 10 ]   (1d20+18)[ 22 ]  dam  (1d8+5)[ 11 ] 
 

The overgod, surrounded by its foes roars, the sound booming from the vaulted chamber as it lashes about with teeth and claws seeking to rend its foes apart! Two claws seeking to sperate Tal from his arms! before s himmering field of darkness appears round it.

 
Bite Zarina [roll]120+33[/roll] dam  (3d6+23)[ 36 ] 
Claw Mirriana  (1d20+31)[ 39 ]  dam  (1d6+18)[ 21 ] 
Claw Tal  (1d20+33)[ 34 ]  dam  (1d6+18)[ 23 ]  - actually -4 to hit due IGG, so count hit roll as 4 less
Claw Tal  (1d20+33)[ 48 ]  dam  (1d6+18)[ 23 ]  - actually -4 to hit due IGG, so count hit roll as 4 less
  -- ifboth hit then Rend  (2d6+27)[ 37 ] 

Swift: Cast as a SPA a quickened Shield of faith

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina is buffeted by the massive beast as it claws and bites at everyone, a resounding "clang" as its teeth latch onto the shield hovering above her head. Pushing back she spins the Blade of Aqaa feeling the pulse of joy within the blade as the sword feels the  rightness  of her cause. Slipping to the side she flanks with Tal, blade flashing as she bobs and weaves and cuts at the massive creature.
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Swift: Blade of blood
Know Devotion +4
Full attack (PA 2)
Attack +17 -2 PA +4 Know +6 Bite = 25
Dam 12 Str +3 swd +4 know + 6 PA = 25

Full attack
 (1d20+25)[ 34 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 33 ]  +  (3d6)[ 12 ]  blade blood ( (1d6)[ 4 ]  to Zarina)
 (1d20+20)[ 28 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 34 ] 
 (1d20+15)[ 25 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 33 ] 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  106 / 125  (+30 )
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield =  32 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Greater Luminous Armour (-4 to hit, +12AC)  24 hours
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour
Mass shield of Faith (Mirriana) +4 deflection
Protection Devotion (Mirriana) +5 Sacred AC
Shield + 8 AC
Bite of Weretiger: +12 Str, +6(4) Con +4 Dex, 2 claw attacks, Bite attack, blindfight, power attack, +5 Natural AC

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +4 dex +5 nat 8 shield 4 deflect 5 sacred  = 48



 Abilities 
(ACTIVE) Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
 [Ready] Searing strike (boost) 
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist stands resolute next to Mirriana, the overgod looming as an affront to her very being. Even as talons and fangs thrash about she sways and ducks back her  Lightning Sword  flashing out in great arcs as the fiend shows weaknesses in it's defences. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: actions 
 Swift:  Avenging Strike +9 attack &amp; damage (1st attack)
 Other:  Smite Evil (2nd attack), Power attack 12, True Strike (1st attack)

 Full:  Lightning Sword  (1d20+41)[ 43 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), -12 PA, +20 True Strike, +9 avenging strike), damage  (2d6+53)[ 59 ]  (+18 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA, +9 avenging strike) + shock  (1d6)[ 1 ] 

Lightning Sword  (1d20+16)[ 20 ]  (+7 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), -12 PA, +9 smite evil), damage  (2d6+48)[ 57 ]  (+18 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA, +4 smite evil) + shock  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

Lightning Sword  (1d20+2)[ 3 ]  (+2 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), -12 PA), damage  (2d6+44)[ 51 ]  (+18 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) + shock  (1d6)[ 1 ] 

I can't recall if Heroes' Feast is still active? Subtract 1 from all attacks if it is not in effect.

 Wurst rollz evah!  😳
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

Seeing the overgod begin to weave a spell I shout a quick entreaty to Mystara to disperse the spell's energies!

In fact as I deflect the creature's claw with my shield I decide to put an end to its magical protections.

 "Greater Dispel Magic!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Immediate action: Divine Defiance. Turn attempt + sheild of faith = immediate counterspell. I have the spell prepared, so counterspell just works.

Standard action: Targeted GDM. Dispel check as applicable. CL14+4 Domain bonus.

 (1d20+18)[ 31 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 20 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 37 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 22 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 32 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 25 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 35 ] 

Heroes' Feast lasts 12h, so it'll be applied well into evening.

Manoeuvre not granted for next turn (should have rolled 2 for this turn):
 (1d5)[ 4 ] 

Also, why is the OOC closed?


 
DrK
 
 Spoiler: OOC closed 


Odd, RCGothic mentioned it. But it appears out OOC thread has been closed although I’m not sure why
I’ll message a mod and ask them as it seems strange otherwise
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

The spectral flail lashed out again, striking Lan three more times.  He winced again, pushing aside the pain as he reversed direction and sped back to launch another salvo of force spears towards the giant beast.    I'm not done yet, you piece of crap ...   

 
  As swift, move 30' (stay w/in 30' of the creature).  Full attack (PBS, Rapid Shot, Imp Skirmish)

  Att 1  - (1d20+23)[ 25 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 18 ] = 27 
  Att 1  - (1d20+18)[ 32 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 11 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 25 ] = 36 
  Att 1  - (1d20+13)[ 24 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 19 ] = 29 
  Att 1  - (1d20+23)[ 39 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 30 

Looks like I forgot Heroes Feast was in play ... if I missed anything by 1 previously, please adjust accordingly! 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 43/95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: travel devotion (8 rounds, move as swift); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

With suitable offence in short supply, Merrick flies toward Lan and refreshes him of the flail's lashings.

 
 Spoiler: Cure Moderate Wounds 
 (2d8+10)[ 25 ]  Now I'm the Cleric!
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 
   That's more like it!   . The abomination's claws draw blood.    But this   
 
 Spoiler 
  Jump  - (1d20+41)[ 53 ]    tumble  - (1d20+26)[ 28 ] 
  claw  - (1d20+30)[ 48 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 20 ] 
 

   Is   
 
 Spoiler 
  claw  - (1d20+30)[ 38 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 28 ] 
 

   How   
 
 Spoiler 
  claw  - (1d20+30)[ 38 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 23 ] 
 

   To   
 
 Spoiler 
  claw  - (1d20+30)[ 35 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 20 ] 
 

   Claw!   
 
 Spoiler 
To-hit is +3 due to flanking and  Heroes Feast , so reduce accordingly if either does not apply. Again, penetrates any normal DR.

EDIT: Oh, and double damage if more than one claw hits.
 


As he lands on his feet again, Tal's image blurs.
 
 Spoiler 
Swift action to activate  Greater Blurring . Guess we'll find out whether this thing deals with miss chances or not.
 
DrK
Evan as the Ebon aspect lashes and bites and claws at the three woman and metamorphic shifter surrounding it Merrick flies behind Lan, a touch from the insane mage healing the worst of the halfling's wounds. Zarina and Elkist stab and cut at the massive creature their blades leaving long gashes and devastating damage, particulary Elkist who's first blow powered by divine energy slams it it knees. As its bowed Talsien leaps atop its back clawing madly, his claws only slightly slowed by the creatures innate resistance that seems to be blunting many of the attacks and Lan runs across the room, the beast shuddering as a pair of javelins stab deep into its back, strange blackish ichor leaking from it and hissing on the ground

Even as it summons and protective field of energy Mirriana calls down the power of Mystara, the shield shattering, the flail melting away and the creature crackling with dark power as its magical layers and warrens are drained away by her negating magic.

In response it howls a great howl, a cloud of black gaseous vapour enguling the three woman and Talsien before it glows red with eldritch energy as its channels the spark of  God stuff , its connection to the savgery of Erthynul into its attacks

 
Swift: Quickened empowered unholy blight  (5d8)[ 18 ]  x 1.5 damage to "good" and Fort DC 21 of sickened for  (1d6)[ 1 ]  rounds
Free: Frenzy of Erthnul

Bite Zarina  (1d20+29)[ 31 ]  dam  (3d6+21)[ 30 ] 
Claw Mirriana  (1d20+30)[ 45 ]  dam  (1d6+18)[ 21 ] 
Claw Elkist  (1d20+26)[ 42 ]  dam  (1d6+18)[ 22 ] 
Claw Elkist   (1d20+26)[ 37 ]  dam  (1d6+18)[ 23 ] 
-- if both hit then Rend  (2d6+27)[ 31 ] 
Frenzy Bite talsien  (1d20+29)[ 39 ]  dam  (3d6+21)[ 29 ] 

Note: IGG penalty applied
  
RCgothic
Even as the creator casts its spell I weave counter-magics to disrupt it.
 
 Spoiler 
Immediate action + turn attempt + Divine Defiance: spontaneous dispel from 3rd level domain slot to counterspell. Dispell check  (1d20+14)[ 16 ]  CL10(capped) plus domain bonus +4
 


I weather the beast's bite attack which crunches through my armour, but my sword crackles with divine energy as I embue it with power for my own retaliation!

 
 Spoiler 

Strike: Divine Surge [roll]1d20+16[roll] (14AB +2 flanking)
Damage  (1d8+6)[ 9 ]  plus  (8d8)[ 31 ] 
 
Stegyre
 Taliesn 
  Now this is a fight!  
 
 Spoiler 

Move action to jump:   Jump  - (1d20+41)[ 43 ]    Tumble  - (1d20+26)[ 36 ] 

Standard action attack:
  Claw  - (1d20+30)[ 38 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 25 ] 
  Claw  - (1d20+30)[ 40 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 22 ] 
  Claw  - (1d20+30)[ 32 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 25 ] 
  Claw  - (1d20+30)[ 37 ]    damage  - (2d6+16)[ 20 ] 

If two or more hit, they do double damage. Penetrates DR

Swift action to refresh Warblade maneuvers.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

With the flail dismissed, Lan prepared to attack, pausing only as the mage ran over and touched his shoulder and heal some of the bruises.  He nodded his thanks, still creeped out by the man, then rushed back across to use his momentum to fling another series of force javelins at the beast.  Perhaps he would get its attention yet ...

 
  As swift, move 30' (stay w/in 30' of the creature).  Full attack (PBS, Rapid Shot, Imp Skirmish)

  Att 1  - (1d20+23)[ 38 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 30 ] = 40 
  Att 2  - (1d20+18)[ 32 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 20 ] = 28 
  Att 3  - (1d20+13)[ 27 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 31 
  RS  - (1d20+23)[ 26 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 11 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 16 ] = 27 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 68/95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: travel devotion (7rounds, move as swift); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Battered and torn and the beast tears at her, Elkist continues to defiantly swing her blade... 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: actions 
 Swift:  Avenging Strike +9 attack &amp; damage (1st attack)
 Other:  Power attack 12,

 Full:  Lightning Sword  (1d20+21)[ 34 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), -12 PA, +9 avenging strike), damage  (2d6+53)[ 59 ]  (+18 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA, +9 avenging strike) + shock  (1d6)[ 6 ] 

Lightning Sword  (1d20+7)[ 23 ]  (+7 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), -12 PA), damage  (2d6+44)[ 53 ]  (+18 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA, +4 smite evil) + shock  (1d6)[ 4 ] 

Lightning Sword  (1d20+2)[ 8 ]  (+2 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), -12 PA), damage  (2d6+44)[ 52 ]  (+18 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) +  (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 
DrK
The fight reaches a savage crescendo as the beast releases  a great blast of unholy power. Even as it engulfs the party it savages the heroes with claw and fang leaving Elkist bloodied and wavering, her face pale ashen grey. Even as it lashes out Mirriana strikes but her blade is turned aside with a great sweep of its claws. Tal leaps atop its back tearing and ripping great chunks of its flesh from its back as Lan circles around, a series of magical javelins pinioning its chest . It roars, the sound echoing around the vaulted chamber, ear drums rupturing before it goes to smash down atop the injured Elkist who centering herself lashes out with all her might a  blow of holy energy striking into its neck.

With a strangled scream like a soul being sucked away the overgod implodes in on itself, the wind rushing past you whipping hair and cloaks around before the body fizzes and sizzles into a puddle of dark black matter leaving the chamber lit only by the glowing armour of Elkist, Mirriana and Zarina.

Zarina leans forward, her multiple seals, glowing wards of power and scales gleaming brightly.  "By the Lightning Lord. We have seen so many things of horror on this journey. I do not know whether that was the best or the worst, but for either I am saddened by it." 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ The Beyond take this foul thing. Let even Animagi forgot this name, ” Merrick sneers.
Stegyre
 Taliesn 

Just steps gingerly out of the ... goo and pads a respectful distance away from the others before shaking his fur off all around, until it stands on end. Then he turns to cleaning himself, licking his wounds (literally), as they rapidly heal. In a matter of minutes, the memory is his only reminder of the fight.

   Good fight.   
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist slumps to one knee, blood seeping from under her armour and her blade hanging loosely from her slack arm. With her good arm she reaches to prayer-inscribed belt and as her fingers trace the symbols she mutters the incantations and healing energy infuses her.

Stronger, she rises to her feet one more. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: actions 
healing belt  (4d8)[ 22 ] 
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

When the creature exploded, Lan froze for a few moments, waiting for the thing to appear somewhere else.  However, as the silence deepened, the others began to slowly asemble.
 To the mage he snorted.   "How could I forget it's name when I didn't know it in the first place?  Anyway, everyone good?  Good.  Time to check that room ..."  

Lan returned tot he space he had been checking out when the statue had become animated.  He seemed to recall stacks of chests ...

 
 OOC - Back to the searching ...   Listen  - (1d20+19)[ 34 ] ,   Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 25 ] ,   Search  - (1d20+20)[ 24 ]  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 68/95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
RCgothic
"Do you need more healing, Elkist?" I ask, helping my friend to her feet. "That was a brutal battle and you took more than a couple of hits for me.  Cure Critical Wounds! Cure Serious Wounds! " I cast, converting a couple of spells into a wave of healing energies.

"Does anyone else need healing? Come on, let's see what else we can find down here. I hope there's nothing else as dangerous as that statue."

 
 Spoiler 

Delay Death -&gt; Cure critical wounds  (4d8+14)[ 33 ] 
Darkfire -&gt; Cure serious wounds  (3d8+14)[ 27 ] 
 
DrK
Zarina looks at herself, patting herself down and shakes her head.  "I am well Mirriana. May the Lighting Lord bless me but the Lady ELkist and Talsien took the brunt of the attacks"  She pats Elkist on the back watching with concern until Mirriana's healing begins to take effect.  "A strange and savage creature, a divine spark I suspect, born of the deluded faith of the threefold worshippers. Even if..."  she pauses and looks at the stairs where the Avolakia runes had been been,  "I am not convinced the true heart of this power is the Ebon Triad. I wonder if something older or darker lies behind them," 

As Mirriana heals the others Lan explores and soon finds a great cache behind the curtain, an antechamber stacked high with 4 large ancient looking chests. Pulling free the chests they are not locked or trapped to Lan's eyes. An examination of heir arcane nature shows warding to preserve the ancient wood rather than to be hostile. Clearly the owner viewed the now dead Overgod to be guard enough.

The first chest when opened is simple enough. 20 white silken bags, each sack weight some 20lbs and containing 1000gp, the coins a myriad of patterns, sizes shapes and designs. Zarina and Elkist recognising coins spanning centuries of culture from all across the continent and many that are unrecognised.

The second chest is equally monetary. Another silver bag with 1000 shining platinum coins, these unusual and almost totally blank but feel old. The other 9 bags glitter as hundreds of assorted gems in a prismatic rainbow of colours fill the chest, a quick total from Lan suggesting that each of the 9 bags contains some 2000go worth of gems to a merchant.

The third chest is lined with silk and velvet with stout dividers with a collection of fine glass vials inside. Although the vials look delicate Zarina and Merrick realise that each has been made with glassteel and each vial is as tough as steel. The potions and alchemicals are of great use.

 
 Spoiler: Chest 3 

10 Potions of Cure Serious Wounds
10 Potions of Non detection
10 Potions of Undetectable Alignment
5 Potions of Fly
5 Potions of Haste
10 Alchemical intensified frost flasks (3d6/1d6 splash)
10 Alchemical intensified acidflasks (3d6/2d6/1d6 over 3 rounds+ 1d6 splash
 


The fourth chest is filled with most impressive of things! Things that Merrick, Mirriana and Zarina look at each other over  as the value of the trove is huge. Also of interest is the leather bound black tome with the pages preserved and written in an elegant hand... Of the magical trinkets there is a gleaming silverr ring that seems prenaturally light to the touch ( Ring of Evasion) , a long blacked rod of iron that appears burnt  (Rod of flam extinguinshing) , a shard of thin metal a foot long that seems to vibrate near the swords of Aqaa carried by Elkist and Zarina ( Wand Lightning bolt 23 charges, CL9) , a second wand that looks like a thing metal whip with a loop on the end  (Wand Haste 19 charges CL7th) , an ancient belt of leather and metal that has a face like a dwarf ( Belt of Dwarven Kind (but Con +4))  a smooth cloak that seems to stick and slip on your hands at the same time  (Cloak arachnida)  and in a separate case locked away is a gleaming orb of pure sunlight, a mace dedicated to Pelor that seems a minature sun on the iron rod  (A dawnstar!) 

The book is fascinating, the pages shifting and squirming as you try and read them but as you look carefully you realise the book is in fact a great listing of cult members of the Ebon Triad. Many names you recognise, and many of those are crossed out - Theldrik "diamond lake", Loris Raknian, "Faceless One - Diamond Lake"
redzimmer
 Merrick 

" This book of known agents of the Conspiracy will be of great use to our patron in Magepoint. Allow me to prepare an  Amanuensis  tomorrow so that we can produce copies. "
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist clasps forearms with Mirriana in a sign of comradeship as the powerful healing magic of the gods is channeled through her as divine vessel, restoring her punished body. Winking subtly to acknowledge the thanks she steps back and allows the more materially-minded to peruse the boons that have been withheld from the world by this evil. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  0,  HP  96/105,  DR  10/ admantine,  Speed  30ft
 AC  22,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  22,  Fort  23,  Ref  19,  Will  23,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 Full plate armour of Agility ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+9 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 25
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Energy Immunity/ fire (spell)
Magic Tattoo/ spell resistance (Merrick) ???

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +20 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Mass Resist Energy/30 cold for 140 minutes. (Merrick)
Mass Resist Energy/30 acid for 140 minutes. (Merrick)
Protection from Energy/120hp electric (spell) for 110 minutes.
Longstrider (wand): +10ft enhancement speed

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Protection devotion (Mirriana): +5 sacred to AC (1 mins)

Round+ effects:

Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
Mass Shield of Faith [Mirriana] (+4 deflection AC)
Heart of Earth/ Stoneskin: DR10/ admantine 110hp
 
RCgothic
"I agree, this list well come in extremely useful," I agree with Merrick, glad we're finally getting in a position to put an end to the Ebon Triad cult cells. It's not our main goal, but it's a major annoyance we can substantially damage with these revelations.

As I go through the treasure hoard I lament "I wish I'd seen these before casting all those cure spells," as I pocket a few vials. When it comes to the final treasure I'm nearly stunned. "It's a Dawnstar!" I gasp, caressing it's orb lightly with my mailed fingers. "A relic of Pelor! Extremely potent but far too fragile to risk using... The church will be extremely grateful when we return this to them!" I say.

"Well Lan, is this it or is there anything else down here?"
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan absently checked the items they gathered, nodding at two of them.   "The cloak would be useful, but I need it combined with my current one.  The belt would be helpful, too.   Anyone else want those? "    If the group splits the vials, he'll take whichever ones are allotted to him and then press on.  When Mir asks about what next, he peered around, not seeing another exit immediately.

 "Give me a minute ... I'll check around." 

 
 OOC - Looking for more portals ... or items.  If necessary, he'll use the cloak to climb the walls to check anything interesting.  Otherwise, ready to move on.   
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 68/95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
DrK
Zarina bows her head and reverentially strokes the dawnstar.  ”A thing of beauty, a thing of great power as well. It is wondrous.”  Zarina murmurs before looking at the others,  “It’s imperative that we get this out of the city lest it fall to the Church of Hextor.” 

She looks at the book and grins,  ”In the right hands this would allow a devastating strike at the Cult. Maybe we should do that after we have defeated Kyuss..” 

—-

Lan scampers around the walls like a strange creature affixed to the cold bricks but finds nothing else of note. He looks carefully but it’s clear that the great treasures unearthed here are the climax of the Cults power in the city.

Looking about the only thing to do is slowly clamber back up the accursed stairs past the wriggling Avokalia runes and then back up the slime coated pit to the strange hospice in the city. Reaching the hospice you are able to sneak past the crazy made old lady and return the bustling streets where the citizens pretend joy in the face of oppression and the occasional winged devil flies across the harsh skyline past the nearly completed Ziggurat and the great Palace. A couple spiral over you, glittering red eyes looking at the glowing suits of golden armour gleaming on Elkist and Zarina.
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

After Lan reported a lack of any additional treasures, they left the pit and the house of dying behind.  Once on the streets, Lan noticed the devils eyeing them from overhead.  He whispered to the others,  "I think you lot are making a scene.  Cloaks and those potions might be needed to keep them wingers off your backs.  So we're supposed to find the Lashona ... are we doing that next, or something else?"  

 
 OOC - Ready to press, but we may want to be a little more circumspect.  Displayed iconography might not be the best solution.  Thoughts? 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 68/95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ Simply asking around in this fascist state will probably draw more attention than we would like. We should divest ourself of these new gains and see if information might come to us instead, ” Merrick mused, half to himself.

The ziggurat was troubling. Not a few days ago they had found a similar structure and experience what, if misused, it could wrought.

 
 Spoiler 
Not particularly entranced by any of the loot. Merrick will just take a share in the specie.
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

As they left Zarina paused at the top of the narrow spiral tube leading down.   "I wish we could destroy it somehow, but in doing so we would cause to much commotion.""   She pauses and glances at Elkist who she suspects would agree with her the most,   "One day, when the city is not under the sway of Zeech we can come aback and bury this place so its vile writings cannot pollute the thoughts of others."  

As they get outside and see's the winged devils (who function as Zeech's secret police in Ahlaster) she nods to Lan and Merrick. [B[ "Much as I would rather keep my protections and wards active I would agree." [/B] She pauses and dismisses the glowing luminous armour around her, her thin green dress under the light chain vest and greaves seeming dull even more so than normal.   "I will be fine and we can avoid notice, I agree."  

Looking at Lan,   "Yes, it was the Lady Lashona we were tasked with meeting in this horrible place. Shall we return to the Abbot now we have dispacted two threats to the city, if not the region and speak with him and we can see if he can direct us towards the Lady Lashona?"  
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  106 / 125  (+30 )
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield =  32 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan nodded, the logic making sense to him, but he looked to Mir as their de facto leader.

 
 OOC - Heading back to the only 'friendly' spot makes sense to me ... I think folks should consider using those potions to mask alignment as well as covering up the symbols (as they can) to limit issues that could endanger our mission  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 68/95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
DrK
Zarina looks to Lan dismissing the luminous armour and then throwing her cloaks hood up to hide her features and the holy symbol round her throat take sa potion of non detection and chokes down the cloying oily fluid. That done she looks to Lan  "Well, I shall appear normal to them now, well, unless they contest our passing."  Looking at Elkist and Mirriana she'll wait for them to take their potions of nondetection as well to dull their shining auras of "good" as well.

Heading back through the city streets Zarina now hooded and shrouded in abjurant magics she pats the hewards haversack where the stash of alchemicals had been stored. She had been impressed by the skills of their maker, although now slightly nervous of the creators power and clear association with an evil cult. As the party slouch the streets doing their best to emulate Lan's casual swagger blending into the busy streets there seems to be much commotion and rumours are flowing....  "The 2nd Captain passed out, magic cackling around him and a three headed shadow over his head...." The temple of Hextor quaked and the ground shook inside and 5 of the initiates passed out as if their powers had been stolen... All thos runes of the Ebon triad flashed and then melted off the walls, even the big one round the back Krupp's Inn.....They say that those who collapsed are adherents to the Triad. the gibbets will be busy for days" . The rumours are busy, even if they grow quiet as Zeech's soldiers or winged guards pass close by its clear that your slaying of the Overgod in the depths has had a ripple of power in the city, the loss of divine abilities manifesting in the traitors that have now been apprehended....

Reaching the relative safety of the Temple of Kord you are once more welcomed by the smells of sweat, leather and dusty sand as High Priest Barnabus barks orders at his sweating clerics who are wrestling in the ring all slicked with oil and wearing little more than loin cloths. Barnabus looks up as you enter, his muscular chest glemaing from the oils as well as he puches the lion cape back and stares in near awe at Mirriana leading you into the temple courtyard.

 

His voice booms out,  "By the Mighty One you've returned. And what a return"  he bellows.  "The whole city shuddered with the screams of a Gods passing, or at least the spark of something immortal. We had not know what it was save that its death scream was something awful, and a great evil had been extinguished. By your looks and by Kord's mighty buttocks I would wager 100 platinum crowns to a copper farthing it was you Lady Mirriana and your band of unlikley heroes."  He shakes his head and goes to a knee,  "I am proven wrong, you are mighty and welcome in this great house of Kord. tell me what has befallen the city?"" 

Even as he speaks there is a gentle ring from the gate and a messenger garbed in sheer white silks, the material so thin its seems almost transparent appears. She draws the eyes of all with her luminescent fragile beauty and long blonde hair as she offers Barnabus a curtsy and hands him an envelope of rich white paper wrapped with a single blue cord. Wordlessly Barnabus eyes her and opens the envelope before pointing to Mirriana and the rest of you.  "It be them that you seek."  he says loudly, his voice strangled in surprise.  "You have attracted much notice Lady Mirriana, Magister Merrick, this is an invite from the Lady Lashona herself for an audience... You have disrupted the city, like a mighty boulder hurled into a pond the ripples spread." 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

" Wonderful, " the Mad Anima muses. " If we eradicate one more evil competitor of his, we may be granted audience with Zeech himself next! "

The day has been long and suddenly the thought of a heated tub and a cold ale appealed...
DrK
At Merrick's words the massive muscled priest of Kord shakes his head.  "Take those curses back! The lady Lashona is mysterious and enigmatic but she is a lady of grace and power. She advises Zeech, but she advised those who went before him and has been here for 2 generations of leaders. She keeps to herself and is a the most important of guests at any dinner. It is said that even Zeech cannot compel her and he does not take offence with a refusal from her"  

The young lady blushes slightly at the priests words then looks to Mirriana, ELkist and Merrick amidst the party. Guessing at the relative decision makers in the party.  "My Lords and Ladies, what shall I tell my mistress? She would extend the invite for dinner this very evening. But there there is time for you to bathe and change into more suitable clothes."   the last words  are said with a glance at the weapons and armour that are bloodied, battered and splattered with blood, ichor and swamp.
Stegyre
 Taliesn 
   Fancy dress party?    Tal's ears perk up. It means having to walk on two legs again, but there's always such interesting new foods to eat.

  And the messenger is . . . pretty  , he acknowledges to himself. *Sniffing* her with his senses.
 
 Spoiler 
I mean, why not? We'll give him a mild crush on the courier and see what happens. I like how she dresses, at least.  Detect Evil  and Mindsight on her, because you want to know things like that about your potential dates.
 
DrK
As Tal telepathically ‘sniffs’ rye servant her can feel her mind isn’t the brightest (Int9) but that she is what she appears to be (a human) and does not radiate evil to his senses
RCgothic
"We would be honoured to attend upon your mistress this evening" I tell the messenger, suddenly self-conscious about my appearance. At a thought my hair restyles itself into something appropriate for a fancy event, but there's only so much a change of hairstyle can do. "And I do appreciate her giving us time to prepare," I add.

I'm definitely looking forward to a long shower and a chance to wear one of my more elegant outfits bought a surprisingly long time ago now back in the free city.
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan frowned at the discussion, uncomfortable with how much of a 'splash' they had made on the town already ... and how many people seemed to know.  The fact that this Lashona was already inviting them to a dinner party spoke volumes about her role as an information broker - but certainly it would make more sense to make an ally of her than an enemy.  Of course, that didn't mean he trusted her good graces.  But maybe they could find a common enemy to build a professional relationship with ...

He let Mirrana deal with the servant, knowing his own responses would only complicate things.

 
 OOC - ready to move on ...  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 68/95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;invisibility&lt;/s&gt;, &lt;s&gt;swift haste&lt;/s&gt;, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, &lt;s&gt;deeper darkvision&lt;/s&gt;
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Allowing Astaroth to take charge, Merrick begins to ponder how best to make an appearance.

" Of course, Lady Mirriana speaks for us all. Your mistress honours us indeed. "

Saying no more, Merrick begins making mental notes:

1. Put ears to the ground and find out their hostesses likes and dislikes.
2. Know who else knows of their presence?
3. What is that Ziggurat's completion ETA?
DrK
Several hours pass as within the Temple the heroes prepare for dinner with Lashona. Even though its a delicate evening Zarina still pauses to consider and dresses in a fine blue gown of soft silk (and only slightly travel stained) and slips on her mithral shirt underneath the silken dress. Leaving the bracers beyond within Kord's Temple along with her haversack and various accoutrements she looks nervous as she rejoins the others, oddly feminine with the circle still holder her hair nack but looking out of place without her armour, bracers and pair of two handed swords crisscrossing on her back.  As she assembles with the the others she looks at Mirriana and the rest,  "I very much hope that we do not get in trouble tonight. I feel at a loss with the Sword of Aqaa at my side."  

--

Heading out of the Temple you find a silver painted carriage with a symbol of a silver manse amongst clouds on the side, a pair of well dressed footman staring blankly ahead. Even with a glance at them Mirriana and Elkist can see they are under some sort of sorcerous ensorcellment but both look well cared for an smart and nod as you assemble by the carriage door.  "Good evening. The Lady Lashona looks forward to welcoming you at Mistwall Manor"  and then says nothing further.

THe manor is one of the largest estates in Alhaster, something evident as you wheel through the city streets through he many festivals and outside entrainments brought in by the Prince to keep the city at peace but eventually after pushing through the crowds you reach the manor on the outskirts of the city at the edge of the ziggurat's long shadow in the evening light. Behind the high walls the manor is a large two winged affair with sweeping balconies and a tall central tower. The gardens a luxurious mixture of fountains and ornamental ponds and well cared for roses gardens grown into fantastical shapes, several gardeners moving about tending to the plants or feeding what appears to be ornamental fish in the ponds.

As the gravel crunches under the iron shod wheels you are met at the grand double doors by a tall guant half orc dressed in a elegant finery who looks at anyone carrying weapons with disdain.    "I am Master Keldorn the lady's Major Domo"   he speaks in a slow monotone voice.   "Please be assured that the Lady means no harm, all weapons must be left within the hall."   he adds he leads you into a grand entrance hall flanked by stairs sweeping up two more levels and beautiful artworks and crystal sculptures on the wall. A pair of blank faced servants approach to take any coats (or weapons) as Keldorn bids you follow him into the front parlour.

The walls of the spacious tastefully decorated study are filled with shelves of leather bound tomes, Zarina and Merrick eying them in wonder at some of the titles related to magecraft that they thought only existed in some of the finest mage guilds and the carpet is a crimson in colour and soft underfoot. A large desk against the far wall, its surface empty save for a stack of yellowed tattered papers with a semicricle of comfortable looking armchairs spread out in front it.  Behind the desk is a stunning woman of unimpeachable beauty

 

The elven lady rises smoothly and gracefully wearing a gold trimmed gown of the very latest fashion cut to accentuate her near perfect figure. She looks ageless with sharp piercing eyes and a tiara of burnished gold holding back the white hair from her face. As you enter a soft smile touches her face and she waves a hand pulling a disc of force towards you upon which stand a selection of cuts of fine meat, fruits, cheese and a range of drinks.  "Please be welcome at my manor. Better to meet here than at one of the Prince's dreadful parties where every course signifies a new humiliation heaped upon the guests to sate his egomania. Please have a drink and snack and then we can discuss things which I suspect have brought you here to Alhaster.  "  Eyeing the various symbols of Herononius and Mystara she smiles again,  "I do not think you would come to this city otherwise." 

Assuming you select some of the (very good!) refreshments she motions you to sit, smoothly sitting herself and waves at the half orc,  "You may go Keldorn, I am safe with these brave people. They are the slayers of the Dragons of the Traitors Graveyards and the Champions of the Greyhawk Arena!"   With an expressionless nod the orc leaves with a low bow.

She leans forward smoothly and pushes the fragments of tattered paper towards you all.  "Please have a look and read at your pleasure. This is why you have sought me out, despite your other distractions in the city."  As you look you can see the neat hand of  a learned man and you realise with a shock that its fragments of Balakardes Journal, the archmage that you have been tracking for Manzorian and follows up more of what you learned in dread Kuluth Mar

 

Ars you rea she reclines supping wine,  He was quite mad I think when he wrote that. Obsessed with the demigod Kyuss and worms of all things, tiresome. But please read through it and then we can discuss your questions. I know much of the mad mage..."  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I smile as I regroup with the others, refreshed after bathing and changing, and quite pleased with the result. It's been too long since I've had an occasion to dress up and I'm now clad in a blue-green ballgown chased with gold trim and green gemstones and a relaxed posture that couldn't be further from my old seriousness.

   
"I'm not expecting any trouble," I reassure Zarina, "though I admit it's reassuring to know I can call my armour with a thought! If it comes to it I'm sure we'll make do."

I follow along with the others, allowing myself to be shepherded into the carriage. At the estate I marvel at the grounds and the manor with its tall tower! As a simple guard I never would have aspired even to entry of a place this grand, and yet now here I am in my own finery, with dreams rapidly expanding to match my talents. I nod to Keldorn as he leads us into the front parlour, showing an open palmed gesture to show that I have no weapons on me. They would be quite uncomfortable to conceal, at present.

As we enter the study I barely notice the finery as my eyes are drawn to the beautiful woman behind the desk. I feel myself flushing slightly, amid a slight tinge of guilt. I suppose this was the intended effect?

"We are glad to meet with you, Lady Lashonna," I say as I take my seat. From the disc of force I take a small glass of wine and some cheese crudites.

"Your ladyship is extremely well informed," I complement, noticing that she only mentioned one of our two achievements since arriving in the city. "We also destroyed an aspect of the Ebon Triad in a catacomb below the city. It's bizarre that we keep coming across them in our pursuit of Kyuss, and yet there seems to be no connection."

I shake off the thought as I reach for the paper pushed before us. My expression tightens as I read, for I don't relish the thought of confronting one such as Dragotha yet it seems as though that is where our task is taking us.

"I'm afraid reads terrifyingly sane," I lament. "We've been to Kuluth Mar, the site of Kyuss's ascension and seen visions of this event - Dragotha stealing the monolith that contained Kyuss's essence. I see no madness in this journal," I say with a shake of my head. "And there are worrying signs in this city. We know Zeech is connected to Raknian, who would have unleashed a tide of undeath on Greyhawk. We know Raknian fled here, where a new ziggurat is being built unlike anything else in this city but worryingly like the one in Kuluth Mar. The prophecy said the Age of Worms would be heralded by a fighter of the pit gifting a city to the dead. We thought we'd stopped that in Greyhawk, but now I wonder? I would keep an eye on Zeech, my lady."

I shake my head again, concerned.

"I hope you can help us, because our quest appears very dark. You said you know much of Balakarde. We know he was searching for Kyuss, and that he came to you because he didn't know how to proceed. Now in this journal he has a last avenue to pursue. Did you give him directions to Dragotha and this 'wormcrawl fissure'? How is it you came to know of these things?"
DrK
 Lashona 
 


The elven woman had stopped and glanced up and down at Mirriana, a hint of a smile on her lips and a slightly predatory gleam in her eyes that only Elkist notices before she smiles and listens. At the question from Mirriana she smiles widely and leans back, a hand just brushing her hair and the pointed ears.  "I assure you my dear I am older than I appear and am a student of history of sorts. Amongst other things. But also, I have spent the past few years focusing on the nature of Kyuss and his return since various portents have happened. The destruction of Kuluth Mar you have caused is only one such prohecy coming to pass."" 

Taking a sip of wine  "Maybe before I answer your questions I will speak of some history. As you know from your trip to the horrid Kuluth Mar the Age of Worms and Kyuss's resurrection were stopped some 1500 years ago, before even my time.."  she jokes softly,  "They were stopped by an ancient Druidic Order, Fey and some good aligned dragons, the druidic order being the one we will focus on. They were know as the Order of Storms. History records that the surviving followers of Kyuss eliminated them and that is partially true, however not entirely so. Some of them retreated to the stronghold on an island in the Nyr Dyv. One that is now surrounded by perpeptual storms and know as Tilagos. On this island they founded a great repository of knowledge made up of the order's history, memories and learnings. It has been sought for many years by all manner of wizards and scholars, as secrets are valuable."  She pauses, piercing eyes meeting first Mirriana then Zarina's,  "And we know secrets are valuable, some of the most valuable things that there are. As they defeated Kyuss they also stoles Dragotha's phylactery and that secret, a true prize, will be in that vault."  

She walks gracefully across the room, dress swishing slightly and hips swaying before pulling a map from a shelf and unrolling a map of the Nyr Dyv. The vast freshwater sea that fills the central continent (and where you are currently perched on the Northen edge).  "Of course there are complications, before they built this library the Order of the Storms begat a bargain with primal forces of the elements and sacrificed their lives to pull the centre of the island from the material plane. the island now is a bare hunk rock surrounded by ever ragin storms. An island that moves around the sea itself but stories abound that the druids left a way for those in need to find it and help protect it from any of Kyuss's undead fanatics. That island is where you must go next. Balkarde went to the Wormcrawl Fissure to seek Dragoth, I believe that was an error. Not just as it is hard to beard a dragon in his lair, but also as without the phylactery Dragotha can reform." 

She shakes her head.  "It seems now that the minions of Kyuss are more active, strange cults like the Ebon Triad you have rooted out rise and trouble begins. I would guess that Dragotha stirs now and plans to release Kyuss from his prison ushering in a new Age of Worms. But, the solution does seem easy. Kill Dragotha. What is a god, or a demi-god without his high priest. EVen the undead grow impatient and Dragotha has been waiting for 1500 years now. Having lost his phylactery means killing him now would be foolish, he would find it then as he regrows from it. It must be found. The wormcrawl fissure is well know, a sore the face of Flaeness and shrouded in danger. Long know as source of evil in its shoruded foggy canyons the Tabernacle that Dragotha calls his lair has long tempted adventurers, none of whom have returned." 

She pauses then and drapes a hand over a crystalline bowl on her desk and then looking at Lan and Talsien with a wink at the former and a cool expression for the latter adds   ""You are not the only people seeking this. Indeed many seek the dracolich's phylactery. One in fact that used to work for me until betrayal. A wretch named Heskin. A simpering dog who stole my k knowledge of these things and sold them to a far more dangerous man named Darl Quethos.  Now, would you like to see this cur Heskin?"    she offers.



 OOC
So something of an info dump
Know (History)(Nature) can give some info on the Order of Storms
Know (History) can help with the Battles and Dragotha
Know (Religion)(Arcana) will help with some Dracolich / Dragotha knowledge
Know (local) (Religion) can recognise Darl Quethos
Sense motive on Lashona if you are suspcious of her
A spellcraft DC 20 can ID the crystalline bowl as a scrying bowl
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan approached the evening as he always did - with caution and trepidation.  He didn't trust anyone outside of the small group of friends he had made, Merrick's occasional oddness notwithstanding.  But going into a situation where diplomacy and guile were the weapons required let him nervous and paranoid - moreso than normal.  And when the halfling was nervous, he tended to be withdrawn at best, and rude at his worst.  He joined the others dressed in his cleanest leathers, shades of black and grey that said little of fashion, and more of utility.  He let his pack, bow and blades behind, but everything else remained.  He drained one of the potions of non-detection to shroud any aura, but specifically to limit the ability to detect his magicks.  He figured the bracers would count for little more than decorative armor.  Besides, he was wearing his mithral shirt underneath his tunic.   \\

Once at the house, he immediately began to shift from leg to let, his eyes scanning the building for hidden murder holes, or nearly invisible guards.  He slid a hand across his forehead to push back his hair as he activated his headband to see the truth in whatever was before them.  Presuming things were on the up and up, he would join in the snacking and drinking, although only one glass.

Upon meeting Lashona, he was taken aback by her ageless beauty - so cold and alien compared to that of Mirranna ... or Zarina.  Embarrassed for a moment, he shuffled his feat and moved to keep most of the others between him and the elven woman.  He just listened as they spoke, frowning at the amount of information Mirrana was sharing, but also knowing he shouldn't have any mistrust of this worman.

  Get a grip, you foolish sneak-foot ... keep your ears open, but avoid direct eye contact.  And stop hunching over ...  

 
 OOC - Keeping the bracers and stuff on, but leaving my visible weapons / gear behind (albeit tucked away in some nook he found).  Using the True Seeing ability of the headband to check out the servants and the house.  If we're still under the benefits of a Feast, he won't avoid eating :D

  Nature  - (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 
  Arcana  - (1d20+3)[ 17 ] ,
  Sense motive  - (1d20+3)[ 8 ] ,
  Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 25 ] ,
  Listen  - (1d20+19)[ 39 ]   
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, deeper darkvision
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 4 hours)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Merrick eats and listens freely, content that Buer would eliminate any attempts to poison him. Most of the conversation washes over his fragmented and distracted mind, but definitely the name Dragotha piques his attention.

  Always the name Dragotha. A dracolich would need a powerful reason to swear fealty to another, and to evade eternal tortures at the Dragon Queen's talons is as good as any.  

The Vecnan was an unwanted variable - the sooner they found out what a devotee of the Whispered One was after, the better.

“ Do you suspect your own Kas is in league with these lich-lovers? If it means we are a step closer to destroying Kyuss and his lieutenants, then let’s begin. ”

Personally a reliquary of lost knowledge was too tempting to dismiss.
DrK
Lan is quiet, watching the women interact and gazes around, that is until he rubs the headband and stares around with the magical true seeing in  effect. As he activates the headband and glances towards the elf…

 
 Spoiler: Lan 


The room swims as his vision doubles, in one view the beautiful and elegant graceful elven maiden, in the other a vast creature of ripping scales and muscles. Her form is enormous, blurring with the edges of the rooms and the walls. A creature of unapologetic majesty as her gargantuan silver scale frame dominates your vision. Long claws the size of Zarina’s fullblade top each hand, vast membranes like huge sails are folded in by her sides and her head is larger than a horse with savage gleaming purplish eyes and a mouth of full of razor sharp teeth
She is in fact what appears to be a vast silver dragon!
 


Lashona looks at Lan and shakes her head as he stumbles from the ‘true view’ and whisper a  ”Tsk Master Lan, has no one ever told you it’s rude to peer at a woman’s secret”  but she says nothing else

 Talsien  in room, looks at her sweeping the room with his mindsight. The servants had seemed clouded in their minds but Lashona was not there, a void, a space. He could see and speak with her but to his mind sight she was shrouded
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan blinked for a moment, the magnitude of his vision breaking his normally stoic mien.  He glanced from Lashona to the others, opening his mouth, then closing it.  At Lashona's mild admonishment, he gave the woman a single head nod, crossing his arms as he listened to the others talk about things he was certainly no expert in.  Looking closely, one might wonder if he were mangry or upset ... both his cheeks were slightly colored.

 
 OOC - Lan will keep his silence for now, but is certainly surprised!
Any other 'surprises' in the house so far?    
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)
 
DrK
Lan staring around the room he is in aside from the shock with Lashona herself see's nothing else obviously amiss and nothing else in the drawing room where you are being entertained. As the learned members of the party study the journal Lashona pulls out a piece of hair from the desk drawer and smiles slightly. " A memento one of my servants liberated from Heskin when I suspected he was not true to me."  THen she casts the hair into the large bowl and waves her hand over it as water fills the bowl  (Create water)  and murmurs a few words of Scrying

The image in the bowl shimmers and the faint tang of sea salt fills the room. A tumultuous scene grows around you accompanied by the sounds of a roaring tempest. You see a vast sea and a long two masted ship with panicked crew scampering around the decks, sails blow free and ropes flapping. The ship is awash with crashing waves and bubbling foam as gruff sailors, all garbed in black leathers with a variety of long blades battle with thrashing ropes and the sails being torn to canvas shreds. At the reaar a massive green skinned creature stands by the wheel roaring his rage into the sky.

 

Images beyond the short range of effect are hazy, the scene focused on the strained mask and the deathly pale balding man, lashed by the storm and bound to the mast by thick barbed chains that cut deeply into his (Heskin's) wrists, throat and ankles. Most of the scene is filled with the sailors, some orcish, some human swearing and cursing as the ship forges a pass through the maelstrom. At one point two lithe figures wrapped in sodden black silks drop to the deck, steaming rising from their firms and short demonic horns jutting from their foreheads before they move beyond view of the man chained to the mast by the barbed blackened chains.

 

A massive red skinned figure strides into view, his skin sizzling with steam, an immense flaming scimitar on his back. He looks at Heskin with feral brutal features before speaking in a deep baritone. " You're pet is taking on water here Quethos. He may not live to the island ". As he finishes two more creatures appear. One is small and fragile looking, a birdlike kenku judging by the beak though wrapped in purple robes you can only see a repeating crossbow slung on her back. The other figure is tall and radiates power. His face is shrouded by a blue cowled cloak covered in intricate golden eye designs.

 
 

As he stands looking at Heskin you hear his threats. "  Only a few more hours Heskin then if you have proven true we can kill you quickly, otherwise the twins will be your new torment and that will be a long time. " Heskin, bleeding, bedraggled and clearly beyond hope shivers with fear sobbing. As the blue cowled figure watches he turns angrily stating at the scry sensor. " Uninvited guests. Who are you, allies of this pathetic cur? " His face is pale but commanding and twisted into a snarling feature of evil. It is also somehow familiar. The memory jolts as he pulls his left sleeve revealing a horrific dead black limb that seems to twist and writhe with a life if its own. You all recognise it from the Vision from the Spire. The Hand of Vecna!

 

As the hand is revealed Heskin starts screaming clearly knowing what's coming! The hand reaches out, Quethos speaking " We can't have your friends watching Heskin, I think your journey with us is at an end."  The hand touches Heskin's forehead and an ugly black stain pours over his face, the muscles on his neck bulge and strain before with a horrifying scream he is killed. The image fades throwing you all back into the room.

As you land back in the room with a "thump" Lashona looks around in surprise, her eyes wide  "Well that was unwelcome. The Hand! Did you see it, that is a serious risk, I had not realised he was so powerful and so favoured a servant. Did you see were they were. They have reached the Storms of Tilagos!? They are days ahead of us. Please you must beat them, if he can restore the phylactery to Dragonath then the Worm God's return is all but assured." 
 OOC

Know (Arcana) can give info on the hand
Know (Planes) can ID the red skinned beast
S.Motive to look at the reactions of the vision or Lashona

 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Wanton covetous lust washes over Merrcik. Such a power artifact in his possession could tip the balance against the Wyrm God.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 
Bluff  (1d20+10)[ 12 ]  Lan might judge me if he knows of my desire. I cannot stomach his disappointment and disapproving scowls.
K: Planes  (1d20+18)[ 26 ]  What manner of beasts oppose us?

Arcana and Motive in OOC
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina had watched the scrying with worry and horror in her eyes. She glances at Mirriana and Elkist first.   "The Hand of Venca, I had thought it was but a myth, its powers are evil and it carries a spark of Vencna within..."    her words tail off as she considers,   "The cult of the Ebon Triad are aspected with Vecna, the Faceless One was a servant of the cult I wonder..."   Rummaging in the paperwork and the books they had found in the chambers she looks through it all and then holds it up to the table.   "Look, Darl Quethos, he is listed as a high ranking member of the Ebon Triad Cult, a very high member as she tracks back some of the runes surrounding them, one of the highest."  

She glances at the map on the table where Lashona had pointed out Tilagos the isle of Storms   "Mirriana, I fear we must go there as soon as possible. If the power of the Hand  was given to the cult of Kyuss and Dragotha, Kyuss's most powerful lieutenant is returned his phylactery I dread to think of the tide of evil that would arise. I agree with our gracious host. We must make all haste to Tilagos and try and slay this Darl Quethos and destroy Dragotha's soul."  

At LAn's start (from his truessing) she rests a hand on the halfings shoulder, her ringed fingers on the right hand glittering with shining red ring of mystic fire lending a warmth to the grip of Lan's shoulder.   "Be at ease Lan, Mirriana and Elkist will protect us and your trusty javelins I'm sure can slay anything that tries to hurt us."   She says, Lan realising that she misunderstood his jumping and thought it to be a response to the scrying vision and not what he has seen of their hostess....
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  106 / 125  (+30 )
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield =  32 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Earth  (+8 vs Trip/Bullrush, +24 Temp HPs, Light fortification) 12 hour

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"I've heard of Darl Quethos," I say hesitantly. "He's one of Vecna's most powerful mortal servants, a master of clerical magic. I'd heard rumours that he'd come into possession of a powerful artifact, but now I've seen his face and hand I know it's worse!"

"I now recognise him from the prophecy we saw in Kuluth Mar."

I place my drink back on the following disc of force and stand to leave.

"Thank you for your hospitality, Lashonna. If you didn't mind, I think we should depart at once."
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan watched as Lashona displayed some scene from stormy seas, his eyes focused on the details of each person that appeared.  Instinctively, he hated them all, and knew this would come down to having to kill every one of them.  Every practical, Lan looked for signs of weakness, or clues on how to defend against the most obvious of threats.  When it ended, he turned back to the others, glad that Lashona had at least been surprised by the death of her former acquaintance.  Good to know that even a being such as her could be caught off guard.

When Zarina spoke, he frowned in confusion, then snorted.    "Uh, thanks.  I'll try to keep from falling apart during the fight."   Smirking, he turned to Mirrana, clearing his throat.   "I'm for taking care of this lot as much as anyone else ... but how in the nine hells do we get to an island hidden in a storm that we don't even know where it's at?  I can navigate the Cut and almost any other terrain on land you could find, but I'm no sailor ..." 

Glancing back at Lashona, he asked,  "What about you, Lady?  You're obviously an information broker ... what do you know about getting there?  Can you tell us where your lost puppy was when he got killed?"  

 
 OOC - Might as well ask the 'nice' lady :D 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)
 
DrK
Lashona looks at Lan, a hint of steel in her eyes and her eyes clasped tightly under her breasts the slightest hint of annoyance.

 
 Spoiler: Lan only 

To his true sight her wings flair some 50ft outstretched as the gargantuan creature superimposed upon the frail elf rears above, a flash of red in her eyes as the long canines reach above you, her snout and maw long enough to eat you whole! Only a faint smell of perfume exuding from her as there isn’t even any breath washing over you
 


She tsks slightly and nods at Mirriana  Haste May be advised. As for your diminutive friend, thanks to the scrying on poor Heskin I can now place the isle on the map with enough certainty to teleport. The isle wanders so the window for such a feat is short, a matter of a day or so.” 

She walks to a shelf and pulls out a sheaf of scrolls,  I have but a single scroll of teleport sufficient to carry you there if you have the ability to activate it. If you have your own means then I am sure you can travel back. I suspect like many Demi planes if you transport there magically the nature of the plane will shunt you to a particular location, an entry way in the planar bubble if you will, certainly there are planes in the abyss and the seven heavens that function in such a way. The fabled ivory labyrinth being one such place.” 

Pausing she looks at Mirriana and Elkist, a glance that lingers for slightly longer than is comfortable.  “When you recover the knowledge of the Library of Last Resort please return. We must share Dragotha’s weakness as far as we are able.”  To Mirriana and Elkist both can pick up tye hatred for Dragotha no matter her attempts to conceal it.


 OOC

A night to prepare if you wish and then teleport or sail
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I sigh wistfully. It would have taken much more than an evening to get my shield enchanted the way I'd been planning, but I see no way of delaying for that long now.

"I just need to collect my gear and then I'll be ready to go. Whilst I can see the benefit of waiting until we've fully replenished our spells, if we were to teleport tonight we'd be able to do a little reconnoitring and be better placed to make our selections come the morning."
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ Unless you can scry through time as well as distance, the Vecnans have not reached the isle yet. I have depleted my most potent spells, but I trust my companions can keep me safe until I have time to replenish on-island. ”

The tactical advantage of getting there first and being able to set the battlefield outstripped the disadvantage.

“ The scroll will be of great use. Can you offer any other material aid? ”

Not diplomatic, he knew, but time was of the essence and this unsettling elf had a shared interest in their success.
DrK
Lashona looks slightly crossly at Merrick and offers Mirriana cool nod.  "They are close. The storms that surround the isle are not huge, violent but not huge so they must already almost be at the isle. Although the isle appears a blasted wasteland and the way to enter the demi-plane where the druids hid the library may take them longer."  She looks at him and slowly shakes her head.  "I do have some minor magics available if that would help... But the teleportation scrolls you can assuredly have if you think that would help" 
 She describes a smattering of level 1 and 2 partially charged wands and scrolls she has available. If there is anything in particular you want then name it and we'll see what she has 


As she speaks Merrick can consider the foes he saw in the scrying pool, the red skinned creature most assuredly an Efreeti, a genie-like creature from the elemental plane of Fire and judging by its ornate jewelry Merrick would suspect it would be an Emir of some kind (a middling noble rank amongst the teaming masses of the City of Brass). But something experienced with planar gates and planar travel.

She pauses as she regards each of you carefully,  "If you leave tonight, have a care, The island is dangerous and many have gone there, but few have returned. I have no concrete information for what you seek, save that there is a circle of ancient menhirs or stones on a  beach that houses the secrets of passage into the demi-plane. I am not sure where you will appear when you arrive but look to the coast for the stones, the interior is but a shadow left from when they enacted the great ritual.." 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina looks at her silk gown, a hand clasping where the sword should be.   "I can go tonight as well Mirriana, my sorcerous powers have not been taxed too severely today."   She looks at Lashona and offers a small curtsy of sorts,   "Thank you for the information and the help Milady. We will endeavor to defeat Darl QUethos and locate Drgotha's phylactery."   Looking at Elkist and Lan she grins,   "I guess we had best return to Kord's stronghold and garb for war."  

Then in a quieter voice she leans into the Priestess,   "What of the Dawnstar, do we bring it with us or leave it with someone here?"  
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  106 / 125  (+30 )
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,   : +12 to AC/FFooted (G.Luminous)+8 shield =  32 
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
 Back in the Temple of Kord 

It takes an hour or so for Zarina to get ready before she joins the others in the feasting hall / boxing ring that forms the heart of the Temple of Kord. Gone is the tired looking silken dress and back is the tattered and threadbare green dress with her chain shirt underneath and bandoleer of potions and alchemicals over the top with twin massive swords slung on her back and heavy greaves strapped on her arms. Her thin gauntlets are back on her arms, one cool silver, one dull cold iron and she appears tired even as she is garbed for war.
 "So we head back into danger once more. At least it cannot be worse than the Spire of Long shadows..."  she adds hopefully as she looks to her companions all garbed for battle. To their eyes the gleaming luminous armour and dragonscales that often cover Zarina are missing.  "My arcane power is somewhat depleted from the dragons and the Ebon God in the cellars below. But I will still give a good acount of myself."   she says looking at Elkist and Mirriana with a small grin.

Then nodding towards Lan she kneels down,  "I can still offer some combat skills if there is something that would aid you, it would last several hours so may help in the landing upon Tilagos.." 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

She is ofereing Lan the Heroics spell if he wants a bonus combat feat for 130 minutes
 


---

After letting the others share a last few words as well she nods towards Merrick as he pulls out the teleport scroll and visualizing the map in Lashona's drawing room there is a snap of displaced air as you are teleported hundreds of miles towards distant Tilagos. The freezing air, howling wind and sideways rain hammers into you with savage fury as you slam into the ground on a rocky promontory. The black shards of rock, like ancient ribs of a monstrous jut just above the sea where you have landed, the wind whipping about you and the rain and waves pelting down atop you...

Through the spray and the wind you can see the rocky spire leads maybe half a mile inland to where the cliffs climb up, wrapped in spray from the waves and the open blackened rocky desolation of Tilagos can be seen... Peering through slitted eyes along the coast you can see nowhere where a ship could make landing with eye line, although the island does not appear very large and curves around out of sight quickly being eaten up in the storm. Pointing towards the coast and the cliffs and rocks further inland Zarina has to shout over the wind... "We should head inland and see if we can find shelter or a way up into the island's heart. If anything the wind should calm and we can try and find a way to access the druids demiplane." 
 
 Spoiler: Weather 

Its cold so Fort Saves every Hour
Its very Windy, so Fort saves (in combat only) to not be checked by the wind
Its very rainy so flames are limited, concealment for all and -8 to perception checks
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  
  In the temple  
Lan turned to the others and said quietly,   "She's a f&amp;*kin' dragon ... and just a little bit stuck up.  Don't know how much we trust her, but she seems to hate this Dragotha, so that's good, yeah?""    He gathered his gear, sharpened his blades and prepared for the journey.
 However, without time for the mages to make any more trinkets, he didn't have much else to do but grab his pack and weapons.  He made sure they had the items Lashona had given them, uncertain if they would need them or not, but prepared none-the-less.

  On the island  

Peering around, Lan frowned, pulling his cloak tighter.   "Well, this sucks.  Guess we better get movin'.  Anyone got something to take the edge off the storm?"    Lan moved to find a path inland, hopefully away from the cold wind.

 
 OOC -   Survival  - (1d20+13)[ 29 ] , group won't leave tracks based on his ranger abilities.  Will be checking for tracks from the other group along the way.

Don't forget we have 2 elixirs of swimming, 2 potions of water breathing, Wand lesser vigour (18) and a Wand of lesser restore (16).  Do we have any endure elements to help with the Fort checks?  Would that be too much meta-gaming to have picked some stuff up before we departed?  Or would that have made sense given knowledge of the environment?

Also, will Lan be at a disadvantage with the winds, due to being small? 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Merrick bends into the wind, utterly miserable. He could take on the form of a Red Dragon, speak directly to extraplanar powers and banish demons with a word, but nothing in his repertoire could deal with this insufferable wind!!

“ We must seek a shelter! This rain and wind will eat up alive if we stay in it .”
DrK
The group begin to scramble down the narrow rocky spar that their teleport scroll dropped them on. The wind howls around them as they slip and scramble over the narrow rocky spear that is nly some 30ft wide in places with the wild waves splashing over them as they make their way, hunched down against the wind and sting rain. The spar ends maybe around 300ft away as it rises up a steep slope of black rocks and crevices onto the island proper, at least this way allowing some chance of scaling the cliffs that dominate this face of the island.

However... even as you battle down the narrow rocks there are shapes ahead!  The waves smash over them as they appear out of the dim light and smashing waves. A trio of forms... All manner of spikes, scales and sharp apendages. The lead one, not the largest of the shapes. Two of them appear as massive scaled forms, huge, towering 20ft tall and the pair of them taking up the full width of the rocky path with faces remincent of sharks or lizards. Standing behind the two massive giant creatures is a smaller form, some 10ft tall, a swirling translucent humaoid shape seemingly crafted from the swirling water itself. Its eyes glow and crackle with lightning and a trident is held in one hand. The two massive creatures clearly eschewing any subtlety clutch hug shafts of spiked coral.

In your heads, audible over the crash of thunder you can hear a watery voice pulsing and waning,  "This island is forbidden. there can be no mercy for those would intrude, your spirits shall join with the everstorm!"  
 OOC

Initiative

Mirriana, Lan
Watery Bad guys
Elkist, Merrick, Talsien, Zarina


You are on a narrow spar of black sharp rock 30ft (and 300ft from the cliffs that lead up onto the island and @80ft from the top where it drops into the ocean)
The ground is slippery (so Balance DC10 checks for moving faster than half speed)
- Occasional Waves may wash over the rocks (at random)
- Enemies are 70ft away - 2 huge ones that look like blue scaled shark headed giants with massive clubs of spiked coral and behind them a large humanoid form of shimmering water and lightning with a trident

Wind and Rain:
 
 -4 to spot and listen 
  Targets &gt; 30ft away have concealment 
  Ranged attacks are at -4 
  Wind strength needs Fort DC18 to move normally or checked and unable to move 
  Flying needs Fort DC 23 or blow 2d6x10ft in random direction 
  Storm surge in the sea is DC28 swim checks to avoid the drowning and smashing off the rocks 
  Fire spells are impeded CL20 to use them 
  Water/ Electricity spells are enhanced - automatically empowered or CL+2 (whichever is appropriate) 
 
 
RCgothic
"A dragon? That's surprising!" I reply to Lan at his revelations. "I think we'd do well not to trust her. I got the impression several times that she was hiding something, and she enjoyed watching Heskin die a lot more than she meant to let on. Still, she's right that we can't let Dragotha's minions find his phylactery. We've got no choice to proceed, but I'd think twice about dealing with her again if we can avoid it."

A quick change of armour and a teleport later and we find ourselves in much less hospitable environs challenged by unknown foes.

"This is a bad tactical situation," I remark, regarding the winds, waves, and slippery path that puts us as the mercy of both. "They look equipped for this sort of fight, but we are not. If I'd had more time I could have conjured us a fortress," I mutter disconsolately. "I have one idea, it might work."

" Lady Mystara hear my  wish ! Push these monsters off this cliff!" 

Before us a large hand of force manifests in the rain and slams unerringly into the smaller creature of water and lighting!

 
 Spoiler 
Spontaneous 7th level Domain Spell - Limited Wish. Replicate 6th level Sorcerer/Wizard Spell - Bigsby's Forceful Hand!

Bull Rush  (1d20+14)[ 23 ]  (off the spar if possible)
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Squinting to see through the wind and rain, Lan agreed with Mir - this was an ambush that they had no business engaging in.  But something else bothered the halfling, and he realized it after a moment.  Before the Chosen of Mystara could cast her spell, he tapped her leg and called out over the wind,   "I'm all for a quick end to any fight, but what about that other team?  If they got here first, how'd they get by?  And if we're first, do you want to make it easier on them?  There's gotta be a better way to get past this lot that leaves 'em to protect the island ..."   

 
 OOC - Wait, is Lan being the voice of reason?  Mebbe ... he just doesn't want to fight were we don't need to.  And if these are guardians, maybe we should 'parlay' first? 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)
 
redzimmer
 If I’m not killed/they’re not killed 
 Merrick 

“ Fine, none asked, none given. ”

Astaroth screams in futile rage as Merrick draws the vestige’s essence into his spell.

Fumbling in the wind, Merrick rubs a fleck of rabbit’s fur against an amber rod. A bright blue arc crackles around him and a bolt of lightning flies at his soggy assailants.

 
 Spoiler: Merrick casts Maximized Chain Lightning 
target the speaker, then closest sidekick, then the last one. Empowered by weather, maximized by vestige metamagic 14d6 (maximized 112*1.5 = 128 ref DC 22 for half 64) no roll due to maximized, then 13d6 (117 DC 22 ref for half 58) then 12d6 (108 ref half 54)

Would it not be hilarious if they were immune to electric?
 
DrK
As the figuers appear in the storm Lan steps forward to suggest a parlay but his voice in lost in the crashing storm as a wave smashes past. Mirriana summons down the literal hand of a goddess and suddenly the smallest of the creatures is picked up and hurled sideways into the thrashing water... The two massive figures ignoring the loss of their supporting caster unerring stride forward, their massive feet stepping easily over the sharp rocks ignoring the weather. A vast bolt of crackling lightning flows from Merrick smashing into the figures and arcing in to the waves after the others but it makes the shark headed giants grin with their toothed maws. The one on the left pauses and holds up it hand, electricity crackling around its fist before it hurls a massive arc of lighting back at the party. The crackling energy slamming into Merrick before arcing to everyone else.  The second merely strides to within 15ft of Zarina at the front of the party and swings the huge club at her, the blow seeking to smash her from her feet with its awesome force.

 Shark Giants
Giant 1: Advance to within 30ft of the party. CHain lightning at Merrick  (18d6)[ 54 ]  x 1.5 (empowered) DC 18 Reflex for Half
    --- ALL other PCS take half the damage, Reflex DC 18 for 1/4

Giant 2: Advance to within 15ft of Zarina, Awesome BLOW  (1d20+22)[ 42 ]  dam  (4d6+21)[ 34 ] 
   --- If hit then Ref Save = Damage  (1d20+11)[ 23 ]  or thrown 10ft to the edge of the black rock (very close to the edge)

 

The figure that had vanished into the dark waters pulls itself free from the waves, rolling across the waves, its blue body glimmering composed partially of the very water of the sea. Its rises to its feet, eyes crackling with blue fury as a swirling ball appears around it granting it immunity to some magids. Its hand then gestures at Mirriana and a flurry of small orbs slam into the priestess

 Elemental Stormcaster

Move out of the water
Cast Lesser Globe invulnerability
Quickeend magic missile vs Mirriana  (5d4+5)[ 15 ] 
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Merrick experiences a big rush of regret as he activates the mystical eye on his forehead.

 
 Spoiler: Third Eye Dampening… Sorry Z… 
 (1d20+8)[ 11 ]  Reflex
14 damage *1.5 for fail (21)
7 damage *1.5 if successful (11)
Unless I grossly misinterpreted the rules about third eye dampening as well.
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina looks to Merrick as she see's the electrical build up, a cry of  "no, they are beasts of the storm it will do nothing"  swallowed by the winds and the crack of lightning emanating from Merrick. Seconds later she griamces as the lightning washes over her, thankfully the ancient Ring of the Wind Dukes absorbs some of the damage. The relief is short lived as she feels a bone shattering impact and screams as most of her ribs shatter under the club that is larger than her impacting her body. Her world turns upside down and she opens her eyes to look at the black rocks flickering in the lightning, pain in her side and face in the pools of sea water.

Ribs protesting and body screaming in pain she pushes herself upright, leaning on the sword of Aqaa to raise herself to stare at the giant some 25ft away. A muttered  "I am the storm, the firestorm"  under her breath as she pulls down the power of flames, fighting the frigid boreal wind to channel fire at the giants and at the same time a wave of her summons a shimmering protective dome around her

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Move action: stand up
Swifty: Shield spell
Standard: Cone of Fire catching both the giants  (15d6)[ 54 ]  damage
 - Ref saves  (2d20)[ 6 ][ 12 ](18)  for saves vs DC21

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  13 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +8 shield = 27
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Knowledge Devotion +5
Shield 12 mins

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I glower at the enemy spellcaster. There's altogether too much magic being thrown around. First things first.

"Zarina!  Heal !" I call out, grasping the rod of quickening hanging at my belt.

Next things next, I get our defences up.

" Mass Spell Resistance! " I cast, considering defences upon every one of us.

Finally, we need to punch a hole through to the island.

"You! Get out of our way!" I cry at the nearest shark-giant, directing the hand to force it out of my way.

 
 Spoiler 

Swift action: Quickened Heal on Zarina. 140hp healed.
Standard action: Mass Spell Resistance. Everyone gets Spell Resistance 26.
Move action: redisignate Bigsby's Forceful Hand. Bull rush the closest giant off the land:  (1d20+14)[ 31 ] 
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

The fact that Merrick immediately threw a lightning spell didn't really surprise Lan, but it did piss him off.  Before he could rip the wizard a new one, however, all hell broke loose.  Magic flew back and forth, with pathetic arcing bolts that were easy to step away from.  But as he resigned himself to fighting (in the worst possible conditions for their team, and apparently a very conducive environment for their foes), one of the giant's stepped close and absolutely wrecked Zarina.

The halfling froze, eyes fixed on the momentarily still form, his heart in his throat.  When she rolled over and cast two spells, he released the breath he had been holding.  It came with a wave of relief when Mirrana healed the warrior woman back to normal.  Turning to the beasts, the halfling's mind raced.  There were several things he could try to do, but given the winds and rains, his strengths were effectively curtailed.  With a grunt, he called upon a spell to help his attacks, then pushed into the wind and launched four javelins at the closest foe.

 
 OOC - Well this is the worst kind of combat for the ranged guy.  On round 1, guess I'll just cast a spell - sniper's shot (first shot of each round is a touch attack).  On Round 2, Lan will (try) to move (standard) at least 20' and throw javelins (manyshot) while w/in 30'.  Will target the giant that hit Zarina, if its still standing there ... if not, then the spellcaster (if w/in 30') or the other giant.
  fort vs DC18  - (1d20+16)[ 24 ] 
  Ranged touch attack  - (1d20+15)[ 32 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+7)[ 11 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 14 ] 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Spell Resistance 26; Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist holds her holy symbol high, drawing the power of her god to crumple and knead the very stones beneath their opponents. The rocky spur begins to shudder and crack beneath the feet of the massive shark-giants.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Cast impeding stones on remaining shark-giants. Reflex DC20 or prone.
Move to guard (adjacent to) Mirriana

Impeding stones (ongoing):
 
 Reflex or Balance DC20 or prone 
 Concentration DC15 + spell level to cast 
 -2 on all attacks 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: Stats 
URL=http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1385420]  Elkist Talphrin  [/URL]
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  0,  HP  105 + 15 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  22,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  22,  Fort  23,  Ref  19,  Will  23,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 Full plate armour of Agility ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+9 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 25
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Longstrider (wand): +10ft enhancement speed

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Mass Spell Resistance (Mirriana): SR26

Round+ effects:
 
DrK
Flames and lightning crackle along the rocks and the sea. Zarina's crumpled body slams into the ground and she barely stands to unleash flame back on the giants who raise scaled arms to ward off the savage flames. In front of her Elkist raises his hands and the earth juts up in hundreds of razor sharp stones that seek to tear at their finned feet.  Lan, incensed by the beating Zarina took ducks under the lightning with ease and throws a lone javelin back catching the leading giant in the shoulder.  Meanwhile Mirriana is calm an serene, glowing orbs of protective magic settling around each of the party as a soft white envelops Zarina who emerges free of injury and n longer singed and smoking. The force hand goes to push one of the giants but the massive bulk of the creature proves immovable.

Before Zarina can so much as grin and thank Mirriana the giants and the elemental storm wizards are upon them! A quickening of time wraps around the enemies from the caster as its followed up wth a sudden splitting of the heavens as hail, icy spears and blasting winds swallow up the heroes...
The nearest giant steps forward, this time advancing (slowly on the unsteady ground) and this time swings at Elkist whilst the second one a the back maintains the magic assault, this time Mirriana the target of its lightning as the coruscating energy plays along the line of heroes..."

 OOC

Elemental Storm caster:
Swift: Quickened haste
Standard: Empowered Ice storm for  (3d6)[ 5 ]  x1.5 solid and  (2d6)[ 8 ]  x1.5 cold damage
--------Spell resistance checks vs DC26  (1d20+16)[ 28 ]  Vs Zarina,  (1d20+16)[ 35 ]  Vs Mirriana,  (1d20+16)[ 32 ]  Vs Lan,  (1d20+16)[ 35 ]  Vs Merrick,  (1d20+16)[ 19 ]  Vs Elkist,  (1d20+16)[ 21 ]  Vs Talsien
Move: Stay 50ft away from the PCs

Giant 1: Advance at half speed and attack Elkist  (1d20+23)[ 37 ]  damage  (4d6+29)[ 42 ] 
--- Ref save  (1d20+9)[ 20 ]  Or Fall prone on the stones

Giant 2: Cast Chain lightning at Mirriana  (18d6)[ 59 ]  x 1.5 Ref DC 18 for half [All others take half damage, 1/4 damage on successful save]
---- SR checks DC 26  (1d20+18)[ 38 ]  Vs Mirriana,  (1d20+18)[ 30 ]  vs Zarina,  (1d20+18)[ 19 ]  vs Lan,  (1d20+18)[ 33 ]  vs Elkist,  (1d20+18)[ 28 ]  vs Talsien,  (1d20+18)[ 22 ]  vs Merrick
----- Ref DC 20  (1d20+9)[ 29 ]  or fall over
(I didn't forget the concentration check, he just can't fail it)

 



G1: 79
G2: 54
SC: 0
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina shakes as the healing energy flows through here, a savage grin on her face despite the crackling lightning and icy hail hammering all around her. Her features lengthen slightly, claws erupting from her gloved hands and her frame taking a lower aggressive posture as she summons the hunting power of a tiger and a corona of fire erupts around her as she enters the stance of the mystic Phoenix. Seeing the giant attacking Elkist she growls a low   "that one is mine..."   and gestures with her sword

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Standard: bite of the weretiger
Swift: Burn lesser spell matrix for Stance of Phoenix and DR10/evil


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  93 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +8 shield +5 Nat = 32
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Knowledge Devotion +5
Shield 12 mins
Spell Resistance DC26
Bite Weretiger +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 Nat AC

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
 Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)  
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

The blessing of Mystara douses the ice and lightning, and seeing Zarina still alive mitigates the spectre of guilt that flickered in his mind.

Drawing on his own considerable arcane abilities, Merrick summons a globulous mockery of an earth elemental to stand up to the fish giants.

 
 Spoiler: Augmented Alienist Summon Monster VI 

Summon Pseudonatural Augmented Large Earth Elemental
Spellcraft to see if any sign of wards or  perfect summons  are obvious [roll0]

Whoops. Don’t preview rolls…
Stats will post in Ooc. They take a round anyway…
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I snarl as the enemy spellcaster throws another spell at us, and, gripping the rod of quicken spell, I return the favour, blasting him with a Hammer of Righteousness!

At the same time my Forceful Hand again attempts to shove the shark-headed giant off the peninsular, and I step forward to hopefully banish his friend to a much warmer place than this with a hostile Plane Shift!

Finally, with blows raining down us I offer a swift prayer to Mystara to protect us all!

 
 Spoiler 

Swift Action:
Hammer of Righteousness:  (14d6)[ 55 ]  strikes unerringly, FORT DC19 for half.
Strength sacrifice:  (1d3)[ 1 ] 

Free action:
Forceful hand continues to Bull-rush same target  (1d20+14)[ 33 ]  (target is also now on unsteady ground from the impeding stones)

Standard action:
Plane shift to Elemental Plane of Fire. WILL DC21 to resist.

And immediate action immediately after my actions ( borrowing swift from next turn:
Protection Devotion +5 sacred AC to allies within 30ft.

Iron Guards's glare as usual.
And manoeuvres have expired, rerolling  (9d5)[ 25 ]  first 3 unique:
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

The group began to regroup against their foes, but there was still plenty of fight in these giants. Lan was particularly annoyed by the fact that while they fought here, their foes were getting closer to the artifact.  Snarling to himself, he started to sprint forward to take aim of the giants.  Unfortunately, his foot slipped, and he was blown back a few steps before he caught his balance.

Nonplussed for a moment, Lan changed his actions and started casting a spell.  The small halfling suddenly grew in size, hunching over into the huge form of a landshark, his snout questing towards the enemy.

 
  Top of Rnd 3 : Freakin' Fort save ... casting aspect of the earth hunter and becoming a bullette
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs:  76 /95 AC: 22 (26) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap,  find the gap , foebane
4:  aspect of earth hunter ,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Bullette form (see spoiler below; 69 min remaining); Find the Gap (first attack is touch attack, 5 rnds); Mass Protection (+5 AC [sacred], 10 rnds); Spell Resistance 26; Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist grunts as the giants blow smashes into her armoured body. Planting her feet and setting herself against the waves of weather and magic she stands with blade raised, ready to defend her companions against all that approach.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
I think that the giant Elkist is facing has gone away? Either attack it (full attack) or stand ground &amp; readied attack (standard) on the next one that approaches:

Readied action: 5ft step as needed &amp; PA
Lightning Sword  (1d20+12)[ 18 ]  (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, -6 PA), damage  (2d6+24)[ 33 ]  (+8 str, +2 weapon, +2 gauntlets, +12 PA) +  (1d6)[ 6 ]  shock

Extra attacks if Full:

Lightning Sword  (1d20+7)[ 21 ]  (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, -6 PA), damage  (2d6+24)[ 28 ]  (+8 str, +2 weapon, +2 gauntlets, +12 PA) +  (1d6)[ 6 ]  shock
Lightning Sword  (1d20+2)[ 11 ]  (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, -6 PA), damage  (2d6+24)[ 35 ]  (+8 str, +2 weapon, +2 gauntlets, +12 PA) +  (1d6)[ 2 ]  shock
 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  0,  HP  78/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  22,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  22,  Fort  23,  Ref  19,  Will  23,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 Full plate armour of Agility ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+9 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 25
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Longstrider (wand): +10ft enhancement speed

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Mass Spell Resistance (Mirriana): SR26
Protection devotion (Mirriana): +5 sacred to AC (1 mins

Round+ effects:
 
DrK
War continues to rage within the storm as Elkist and Zarina form a wall of steel and blade, the small magus hunched with feline power. Behind them the Halfling shudders and morphs into the of a massive land shark, much to the surprise of several of the party who had not realised he could do that

By the storm caster the rocks start rumbling as Merrick calls forth living rocks to join their fight. Mirriana, Constable of Diamond Lake steps up, a massive glowing hammer streaking into the storm caster even as the giant nearest the party is forced into the choppy water followed by a flutter of long triangle fins! Her summons to the Plane of Fire though is denied at the last moment

The first giant vanished into the sea and is attacked by sharks before it climbs out of the crashing sea, a shimmering shield of crackling force appearing around it

 Sharks  (1d20+11)[ 19 ]  dam  (1d8+6)[ 7 ] 
 (1d20+11)[ 26 ]  dam  (1d8+6)[ 14 ] 

Then swift cast quickened storm
 

The second giant having survived its plane shift strides forward to be met by Elkist’s savage swing of the crackling sword as its swings at the young paladin

  attack  (1d20+23)[ 37 ]  dam  (4d6+33)[ 47 ]   

The storm caster still reeling from the thunderous impact looks daggers at Mirriana as it’s form starts shifting and shimmering displacing from its true location as it strides towards Zarina

SG 1  79
SG 2  54
SC     55
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Unable to speak commands in the maelstrom, Merrick pantomimes a big hugging motion and points to the giant closing on Zarina. He hopes the message is clear.

  Muddy, let your large cousin know I wish it to wrestle the giant!   he sends grappling images empathically to his familiar, hoping against hope that will work.
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

The beast that was/is Lan stood for a moment, chest heaving in anticipation.  Angered that it/he had to resort to this form ... angered at the storm and the wind ... enraged by the pain one of the giants had caused to Zarina.  Now was the time for flaying flesh from bone ...

With a low snarl, the bullett rushed forward and leapt, coming down with all four claws slashing at its foe.

 
  Top of Rnd 4 : Charge up to 40' (and at least 20') to engage with the first opponent in Lan path.  If there's a clear path to the 'mage' Lan will take it, but I presume one of the giants is in the way, and he will definitely go after the giant that smashed Z earlier.  Leaping attack w/skirmish

  Attack 1  - (1d20+24)[ 38 ] ,   Damage 1  - (2d8+12)[ 23 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 26 ] = 49  First attack is vs touch AC
  Attack 2  - (1d20+24)[ 34 ] ,   Damage 2  - (2d8+12)[ 20 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 41 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+24)[ 40 ] ,   Damage 3  - (2d8+12)[ 18 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 15 ] = 33 
  Attack 4  - (1d20+24)[ 26 ] ,   Damage 4  - (2d8+12)[ 15 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 29 ] = 44 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs:  76 /95 AC: 22 (27) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap,  find the gap , foebane
4:  aspect of earth hunter ,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Bullette form (see spoiler below; 69 min remaining); Find the Gap (first attack is touch attack, 4 rnds); Mass Protection (+5 AC [sacred], 9 rnds); Spell Resistance 26; Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 
 Oh, didn't like that, did you?  I think to myself as the storm caster attempts to protect itself.  Well I've got another where that came from! 
 "Hammer of Righteousness!"  I cry, as I channel more of my own strength into the spell.

Meanwhile my Forceful Hand attempts to shove the first giant back into the stormy waters.

I step back next to Elkist, glaring at the giant.

 
 Spoiler 

Mass Conviction -&gt; Hammer of Righteousness
 (14d6)[ 48 ]  strikes unerringly, FORT DC19 for half
Sacrifice  (1d3)[ 2 ]  strength damage

Forceful Hand
Bull rush (1d20+14)[ 27 ]  enemy still unstable on impeding stones?

Shield block or Divine Surge next round:  (1d2)[ 1 ] 

IGG Vs adjacent giant.
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina by Elkist looks up at the savage shark headed giant, the beast trailing blood as it towers over her, its body marred fire fire and blades. Behind her she could hear Merrick's chanting and feel the pulsing of  Mirriana's powerful magics and the new thunder of the massive bulette that was now Lan. Glancing to Elkist she speaks for the drow to hear,   "We can take it together... With faith in the Lightning Lord"  

Before she steps forward, blade igniting with a dark angry fire as she goes to strike it...

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


5ft Step in
Swift: Activate searing blade (3d6+9 fire)
Full attack (K.Devote +5. PA -2)
Activate Intensified Acid on 1st hit  (3d6)[ 6 ]  acid
 (1d20+26)[ 38 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 28 ]  +  (3d6+9)[ 18 ]  Fire
 (1d20+21)[ 31 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 37 ]  +  (3d6+9)[ 21 ]  Fire
 (1d20+16)[ 34 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 36 ]  +  (3d6+9)[ 20 ]  Fire
EDIT: 27 t o confirm for 34+1 sonic damage


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  93 / 125  =     135 / 157
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +8 shield +5 Nat +2 stance +2 dex (tiger)= 36
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all +3 fort (tiger) +2 Ref (tiger)
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Knowledge Devotion +5
Shield 12 mins
Spell Resistance DC26
Bite Weretiger +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 Nat AC

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
 Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)  
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
The party split their focus as the battle continue to rage in the maelstrom, all of the heroes of Greyhawk Arena dripping with water that plasters hair to their heads and soaks in the layers of armour and cloth that they are wearing. By the frontline Zarina and Elkist confront the wounded giant that had nearly killed Zarina with a single blow, the young mage warrior grips her sword that erupts into flames, steam forming around her as she attacks the giant, hovering aloft on her fiery phoenix stance she shears into the beast and eventually it collapses, flesh sizzling and its top and bottom half separating.

Its mated pair howls in rage before cutting off as the hand hurls it into the water and the caster can do little as a massive hammer of force slams into it nearly crushing the life from it, only the flickering displacement protecting it as the massive bulette lands in a flurry but its claws miss in the rain and flickering magics....

Again the shark headed storm creature drags itself from the waters, this time losing any semblance of subtelty it hurls a spear of lightning at Mirriana who had commanded the force hand to bat it aside so easily. The storm casting elemental, looking visibly injured and flagging releases a great flurry of missiles at the bulette and calls down a blast of anti-magic down atop Mirriana seeking to remove her protections.

 
SG2: climb out the water, lightning bolt at Mirriana Ref DC15 for half, SR check  (1d20+17)[ 28 ]  dam  (10d6)[ 27 ]  x 1.5

Stormcaster: Cast defensive (auto pass) dispel magic vs Mirriana SR check  (1d20+13)[ 30 ] 
  - dispel checks  (1d20+10)[ 26 ]   (1d20+10)[ 13 ]   (1d20+10)[ 21 ]   (1d20+10)[ 28 ]   (1d20+10)[ 15 ]   (1d20+10)[ 23 ]   (1d20+10)[ 29 ]   (1d20+10)[ 29 ]   (1d20+10)[ 14 ]  (apply to active enchantments as needed)

Swift: Quickened magic missile vs Lan  (5d4+5)[ 17 ] 
 
 SG 1 
SG 2 54
SC 103
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Giving up on communicating with his summoned pseudo-creature, Merrick focuses on the remaining giant with a volley of magic missiles of his own.

 
 Spoiler: Sigh 

[roll]1d4+[/roll]

[roll]1d4+[/roll]

[roll]1d4+[/roll]

[roll]1d4+[/roll]

[roll]1d4+[/roll]

Face palm
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

The giant falls in chunks at her feet, blood splattering on her armour and running off as the rain pours down her small body. Spinning she spies the next one, crawling out the water and hurling lightning at Mirriana. With a growl under breath Zarina runs at the giant heedless of the danger and leaps high into the air twisting to avoid its massive club and seeking to shear it in half as she calls upon the Lightning Lord, her knuckles bleeding and blood coating the Sword of Aqaa as she launches a single devastating blow....

Then she slips... an errant rock and the strong wind and rain cause her to lose her balance and she sprawls forward. Running into the massive shark giant and tasting its  salty sweat. It looms above her, a savage grin on its face....

 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Move and Tumble  (1d20+16)[ 23 ]  VS DC17
Swift Blade of blood
Divine Surge (K.Devote +5, PA -2, WT +6)  (1d20+26)[ 39 ]  dam  (1d12+25)[ 35 ]  +  (8d8)[ 27 ]  +  (3d6)[ 13 ]  blade blood +  (3d6)[ 12 ]  intensified cold
-  (1d6)[ 5 ]  to



   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  93 / 125  =     135 / 157
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +8 shield +5 Nat +2 stance +2 dex (tiger)= 36
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all +3 fort (tiger) +2 Ref (tiger)
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Knowledge Devotion +5
Shield 12 mins
Spell Resistance DC26
Bite Weretiger +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 Nat AC

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
 Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)  
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
 [Ready] Searing strike (boost) 
 
RCgothic
"Lan, help Zarina! I've got that one!" I call out, directing my ally towards our fallen companion. Calling upon the dregs of my magic, I fling yet another hammer of force at the enemy spellcaster and then attempt to advance up the causeway towards land.

Meanwhile the forceful hand also continues to do its best to clear the causeway.

 
 Spoiler 

Swift: white Raven Tactics for Lan

Move: Advance FORT  (1d20+19)[ 27 ] 

Standard: Mass Resurgence -&gt; Hammer of Righteousness
FORT DC19 for half of  (14d6)[ 49 ]  hits unerringly
Strength sacrifice:  (1d3)[ 1 ] 
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

The Lan-shark howled in frustration at all four misses from his assault on the mage.  He readied himself to attack again, but heard a shout from Mirriana. Looking over his shoulder he saw Zarina steadying herself as the remaining giant prepared to attack.   Lan’s black eyes narrowed, and he practically flipped over as he turned and charged the giant.  At the last moment he leapt up, striking at the giant with all four claws appendages.

Upon completing his first attack, he paused for a moment as he felt the energy of Mir’s command and he leapt straight up again and came down with his claws ripping at his foe.

 
  Top of Rnd 5 : Charge the giant, moving at least 20’. Leaping attack w/skirmish flanking with others.
  Attack 1  - (1d20+26)[ 28 ] ,   Damage 1  - (2d8+12)[ 16 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 20 ] = 36 
- First attack is vs touch AC
  Attack 2  - (1d20+26)[ 29 ] ,   Damage 2  - (2d8+12)[ 23 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 17 ] = 40 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+26)[ 30 ] ,   Damage 3  - (2d8+12)[ 24 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 17 ] = 41 
  Attack 4  - (1d20+26)[ 39 ] ,   Damage 4  - (2d8+12)[ 20 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 27 ] = 47 

Second ‘turn’ - If the giant drops, Lan will attack the caster instead
  Attack 1  - (1d20+26)[ 35 ] ,   Damage 1  - (2d8+12)[ 16 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 38 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+26)[ 43 ] ,   Damage 2  - (2d8+12)[ 18 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 24 ] = 42 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+26)[ 39 ] ,   Damage 3  - (2d8+12)[ 26 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 47 
  Attack 4  - (1d20+26)[ 30 ] ,   Damage 4  - (2d8+12)[ 17 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 38 
 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs:  76 /95 AC: 22 (27) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap,  find the gap , foebane
4:  aspect of earth hunter ,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
Effects: Bullette form (see spoiler below; 69 min remaining); Find the Gap (first attack is touch attack, 3 rnds); Mass Protection (+5 AC [sacred], 8 rnds); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
There is another thunderous conussive blow as another massive hammer of raw magic slams into the storm caster. Finally this time the impact is telling as it seems to lose cohesion and explodes into a splash of water, its component shreds of elemental water unbound and running into the puddles as a few trinkets fall onto the rocks and into the rock pools. Before the shark giant can do anything the bulette is there, all 4 limbs ripping into the giant and with a horribe tearing sound its ripped asunder, the massive land shark claws ripping free the arms and the upper chest...

The thunder and lightning continues unabated but you can see through the driving rain that it seems like a ring around the island that its less severe once you reach the cliffs that lead up to the island plateau proper.... For now you seem to have defeated whatever ancient welcoming party is geared up to defend the ancient druidic island.

A search of the bodies reveals a few trinkets of interesting providence with rods, ancient mithral braces and a long and massive trident that shrinks as you touch it.

 
 Spoiler: Loot 


Rod of thunder and lightning
Bracers of Armour +4 and Fire Resistance 10
An Aquan, returning +2 Trident
Water cloak
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ Before anyone says anything about rash decisions, let me say I have an aversion to giants threatening my life! ”

The Wizard was feeling particularly defensive, though he knew deep down this combat was at least partially his fault…
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

The hulking Lan-shark ripped the giant apart, then spun around, searching for another target before the realization set in that they stood victorious in the swirling storm.  It turned towards Zarina for a moment, then stopped as Merrick called out over the winds.  The beast fixed the wizard with its black eyes, before turning to pick at the bodies of the fallen.  Upon seeing the trident, the bullette chuffed in resignation and tapped the weapon and itself after looking pointedly at Zarina - obviously a plea to take the weapon for him.

Once complete, the beast sat back and watched Mirriana, waiting for the direction to move on.

 
  OOC : Plans for the climb up?  Staying with the bullette form for now, unless we need a scout 

Effects: Bullette form (see spoiler below; 69 min remaining); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs:  76 /95 AC: 22 (27) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap,  find the gap , foebane
4:  aspect of earth hunter ,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina looks at the chunks of giant and eyes the massive armoured form of Bulette-Lan with some trepidation before reaching out and running a hand over the armoured hide.  “not so small now Master Lan?”  She murmurs before nodding and picking up the trident and sliding into her haversack for Lan later and letting the others claim the lightning rod, cloak and bracers

Squinting through the rain and still breathing heavily she nods to Mirriana,  “Once more I avoid the boneyard and the beyond thanks to you Miriana, as always my thanks and gratitude. But…. Now that we seem to have defeated the welcoming committee shall we head to cliffs and find a way up. If not perhaps we can camp or find magical protection to sleep within the confines and shelter of tye cliffs and then tackle the island afresh in the morning. I am sorely pressed today and feeling drained of much magical resources.” 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  93 / 125  =     135 / 157
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +8 shield +5 Nat +2 stance +2 dex (tiger)= 36
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all +3 fort (tiger) +2 Ref (tiger)
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: oleum, A Fire, L.Ember), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Knowledge Devotion +5
Shield 12 mins
Spell Resistance DC26
Bite Weretiger +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 Nat AC

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
 Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)  
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
 [Ready] Searing strike (boost) 
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ I have a teleportation spell prepared. It may be a risk with the magical protections here. I can send myself then attempt my transposition wand to get us up the cliffs. ”
RCgothic
 Mirriana 
I breath a large sigh of relief as we emerge victorious.

"If I  ever  again suggest rushing in before we've had a chance to prepare properly and recover, somebody slap me!" I bemoan. "That was far too close for comfort."

"Unfortunately I had to spent my ability to conjure us a shelter for the night in the battle. We can't stay here though! Let's see if there's a lee in the shelter of the cliffs, or if we can find a way up. I wouldn't trust a teleport attempt Merrick, I think this island is designed to deposit anyone teleporting back where we arrived."
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ Well it won’t help much in this wind but if I cast a  mass fly  on us it might aid in climbing that cliff. ”

If anything it would give them maybe one chance to land safely if their current rate of success persisted.
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan lumbered over to Merrick and waved his claws for a moment, then pointed at the cliff, mimicking climbing up ... before sitting back on his haunches for a moment, waiting.

 
  OOC : If Merrick has a spider climb spell, Lan should be able to pull everyone up with some rope.   

Effects: Bullette form (see spoiler below; 69 min remaining); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs:  76 /95 AC: 22 (27) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility ,  invisibility ,  swift haste , swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap,  find the gap , foebane
4:  aspect of earth hunter ,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist offers her hand, linking arms to support any that need it as the group approaches the cliffs.  What do you hold in store for us?  she thinks to herself of the island, it's ancient druidic protectors and the blaspheming attackers that lurk within.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Depending on height and wind severity Elkist has  updraft  and/ or  fly  capabilities to assist with her ascent.[/LIST]
 
 
 
  
DrK
As the party recover and strip the valuables form the dead Zarina smiles to Lan as she collects the trident that shimmers and shrinks to a medium size in her hand. The metal wet to the touch and crackling slightly as her hair frizzles and slightly with static energy

Using the bulette as a windbreak the party can reach tye base of the cliffs and suddenly as if you’ve left a ring of storm the wind dies down and the weather changes to a dry barren heat. Scaling the cliffs is easy with the lack of storm and you soon scale them and look across the island, it appears you have arrived on tye southern tip and a vast trio of mountains just from the centre but all you can see across the whole island (some 20 miles wide and 40 miles tall) is barren black ash and gravel as if all life has been scoured from the soil.

Nearby a series of rocky cairns are covered with Auran runes and Zarina, Elkist and Mirriana with the gifts from their artifacts of the ancients can read them. It’s a border menhir and points to the Eastern shore to the welcoming circle for those would treat with the ancient Druidic masters

Looking around at the bare rock Zarina looks at her own bedraggled appearance and motions to the others. ”If these stones have that Darl Quethos wielding the Hamd of Verna, or even more elemental guardians I am sorely pressed. Shall we rest here and travel to the east when we are better prepared?”  
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ Some recovery would suit me as well. I need to prepare for the task at hand. ”

Vestiges suited city dwelling were not going to help here. New pacts and spells were a priority now for the twisted wizard.
DrK
The surprisingly mundane tents for such powerful and magical heroes are soon pitched on the dark gravel and some wood collected from nearby wiry bushes give rise to a small fire that allows some of the well aged and recently soaked trail rations to be cooked for an uninspiring meal.

Zarina looks out into the darkness her eyes gazing up at the stars that seem occluded and shadowed from the strange effects warping the island of the Library of Last Resort. She takes off the fine gith craft chain shirt to examine the links where the giant had near killed her. As normal the extra planar mithril seemed I damaged.  “I wonder what we will find in the morning when we search out Quethos and his followers. I would love to resolve things peacefully but I suspect it will be more violence and blood. At least Quethos and his followers seem like they are servants of the Dark Powers.” 

Sipping from her magical flask that fills at a command word with hot honeyed tea she offers it around.  “it seems long now from the undercavern of Greyhawk preparing for the games in the arena. Now we search for the portal to an ancient Druidic plane and the location of the phylactery to one of the most dangerous dragons that ever flew across the lands.”  She pauses, hand trembling slightly as she realises how dangerous their situation is.  “I’m sure you can keep us safe Mirriana, you have saved most of us time after time now.” 

As she settles down for the night she looks at her companions. The dependable Lan with his surly front, the fearless Elkist, the savage and silent Talsien, the strategic and powerful Mirriana and mad (but loyal) Merrick and feels restored in her faith (if out of place in such illustrious company).

 Morning Preparations

Superior resistance
Heart of Air
Heart of Earth
Greater Luminous armour  (1d4)[ 1 ]  Str damage
- lesser restore wand  (3d4)[ 1 ][ 1 ][ 1 ](3)  use as needed
Tomebound Book of Bocob on fireball, cone of fire, scorching Ray

 
RCgothic
"We were all pushed to our limits today," I agree with Zarina, thankful for the dry heat that will allow us all to get dry. "I'm sorry for that, I misjudged! I thought only of getting to the island before our opponents and forgot it might have defenders of its own! But we made it and tomorrow we'll be rested and well recovered." I accept a drink and toast each one of us before settling down for the night. How strange to be sleeping in a tent again after acquiring the ability to conjure shelters from nothing!

In the morning I pray for an hour to regain my lost favours, and then spend another hour laying on a  Heroes' Feast  to bolster our resolves and renewing my armour and weapon enhancements. In one final act before departing, I find a smooth pebble and cast  Celestial Brilliance  on it, then placing the shining beacon in an easily accessible pocket of my haversack in case we need it later.
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

As they gathered to camp, Lan allowed his spell to disperse and he took the trident back from Zarina.  He checked the perimeter to make sure they were protected, then sat with the others as they hunkered around the fire.  His eyes continued to peer into the darkness as they spoke, even now unable to relax.  After Zarina and Mirriana spoke, he grunted  "No different than any other fight, I guess.  But my worry is what happens now?  I'm guessing if the bad guys were around, we would've noticed.  And if they aren't here yet, what happens if we kill all the guardians?

Almost better to let them catch up and kill them."   

 
  OOC : Just some chatting before we get into it.  Checking to make sure I don't need any spell changes ...  

Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22  Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, swift haste, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, deeper darkvision
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
THe morning (or as much as it can be called morning) dawns with the same dry heat and arid wind blowing across the desolate ash waste ofthe island. but as the pre-dawn light strengthens and you gaze around, including out to sea where you can see the halo of the storm surrounding the wandering isle wall of blue and black clouds streaked with lightning flashes you wonder where to go next. Then the choice becomes easier as Lan's sharp eyes spy three thin pillars of smoke from the east, probably made by cooking fires and only some 5-6 miles away.

Heading east you soon can see long wall of cliffs ahead that bar passage further east and amidst athe crashing clouds and the storms of Tilagos's hostile exterior you spy ruins and the source of the smoke, a ruined ship smashed on the rocks. The broken ship itself, along with the beach and a portion of the island further inland exist in a sheltered dome of relatively calm winds and constant rainy drizzle. However, a maelstrom of hurricane force winds rages all around the area outside a circle of about 400 feet in diameter, including above at a height of about 60 feet The beachhead is littered with driftwood and the splintered ruin of well over a hundred ships. These skeletal wrecks crowd the rocky shoreline, a veritable city of barnacle-claimed vessels peopled with dead sailors. Broken skeletons wrapped in threadbare rags hang out of yawning breaches in the ships’ hulls, and tattered sails whip in the fierce winds sweeping the shoreline. Beyond the shore, the rocky beach angles up slightly to an ancient maze of ruined walls and standing stones....

 

You are some 400ft to the North and got a  glimpse between the clouds of storm that opened briefly. You cannot see people on the wrecked ship or in the ruins, but the height of the ruined walls means many could be hiding and you would not know
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan sighed at the image they gleaned from a quarter of a mile away.  Nodding in the direction of the maze and beach, he grunted,  "Guess we should scout it out ... bettin' when we get closer that'll be our competition.  Ain't no way we're lucky enough for them to have died on the trip.

But before we go rushing down to beat them to the punch, anyone know how we find this place?  Is it in that maze, or somewhere up here?  Or further inland?  That'll drive if we jump down to kill them all, or run for the prize first."   

 
  OOC : Figure we can get closer to the edge and scout out ...  

Effects: Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour)
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22  Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, deeper darkvision
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 1/2 Horizon Walker; 0/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina pauses and looks down over the ruins, squinting as she see's the streamers of smoke in the swirling eye of the storm.  "Ancient ruins, a wrecked ship. I suspect we will cross blades with whoever is in there."  She rests a hand on Lan's shoulder. " I suspect based upon what we have seen inland there must be a portal of some kind on Tilagos to allow one to cross over into the demi plane where the Order of Storms hid their secrets. I would think ruins like that would be a good candidate. Darl Quethos is no fool and if his boat is there I think we should investigate." 

She glances at Merrick. Always slightly unsure with the mad mage.  "Could you teleport us into the maze Merrick, I know I can pass through the winds,"  she adds rubbing her ancient Ring of the Wind Dukes,  "But its not the same for all of us. Would it be better for us to arrive in a spot of our choosing?"  As she looks at the ruins she wonders where would be best. Pulling out her ancient Sword of Aqaa, the wind whipping and forming eddies around it and a faint singing sound echoing from the weapon. Whispering some arcane words she pulls out a thin flake of a scale and bites down, soft scales spreading up and down her neck and arms with red edges.
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Cast Dragonskin (Fire)

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125  +30 temp HPs
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC = AC 29
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 28 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 140 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)

Heroes Feast: Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
"I agree with Zarina," I say, surveying the ruins below. "Our goal is likely below us, and our enemy has got there first. We should pursue immediately! I'm glad I thought to prepare a little surprise for undead today," I say, retrieving the brilliantly shining stone from my pack and securing it where it can cast a wide illumination.

"I don't think we should teleport though, let's just get down there on the double!"
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    
 "Do you think that they lie in wait?"  ponders Elkist.  "They know we hunt them. Do they scry us now as we looked upon them? I shall be happy to bait them if they lurk as cowards." 
 
 
  
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ We can try to teleport, but be ready for anything. We could also reappear separated so we should allow Talsien to be our conduit of thoughts. 

A long lists of defensive spells prepared dance on mage’s tongue.

“ Let us prepare before we rush to our daily flirt with Nerull. ”

 
 Spoiler: Merrick character sheet 
spells prepared, raise your hhand if you want something. Three mass resist elements, mass fire shield and mass fly recommended

 https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=249687 
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    


Zarina nods to Mirrian,  "Yes I agree, we should be bold in our approach. We cannot use too much time against the likes of Darl Quethos. If you would be so kind as to share flight with us Magister Merrick, that would help greatly, particularly as with the Ring of the Wind Dukes I can even fly through the hurricane blowing around us."   She grins as she levitates a few feet off the ground, her cloak streaming out behind her and hair whipping in the winds. Moments later multiple Zarina's hang in the air as she breaks here shadow into numerous mirror images. THen she nods at Mirriana,  "I stand Ready constable." 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Cast Mirrior Image  (1d4+4)[ 7 ]  images

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125  +30 temp HPs
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC = AC 29
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 28 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 140 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)
Mirrior Image 14 minutes

Heroes Feast (Mirriana): Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves
Mass Fly (Merrick): Fly 60ft


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
Following the leading woman (Mirriana and Elkist striding in their armour) through the gusting wind and swirling rain Zarina soars some 15ft above their heads, the wind singing in an choirlike fashion as its strikes her or Elkist's blades that once belonged to the Wind Dukes. Behind the woman Merrick follows and Lan ranges slightly out to the flank hidden from view with his stealth skills. Its a 6 minute stride down to the ruins where you slip and slide down the cliff path onto the small bay that has the wrecks and the broken walled ruins. Ax you get closer approaching from the NW the black basalt walls rise high above you, a mixture of broken walls and ancient standing stones with markings long since washed off or removed. From down the near the beach you can hear the  clunk  of working tools and the guttural shouts of orc echoing from the beach to the south and you expect that some of the crew have remained behind to fix the ship.

Plunging into the maze the ground is soft and mossy between the blacks walls and everything glints in the wek sunlight in the storm's eye from a thin covering of salt although there are still plenty of plants and the walls are covered with thick nets of ivy. As you enter the maze you quickly reach a of crossoards of sort (on the NW side), to the north the walls open up into a plaza of sorts, broken columns and smashed tiles with grass and weeds jutting between them suggest it has been ruined for many centuries but in the centre of the plaza what once may  have been a collection of four impressive statues of marble and basalt have been reduced to piles of shattered rubble and fragments of the statues lie scattered around the area. However Lan and Merrick's sharp eyes can see a flickering blue glow underneath one of the statues and from near the partially broken archway into the plaza Lan can see fresh-ish blood streaked on the doore frame.

To the south another plaza beckons, this one complicated by numerous stone stalagmites scattered around the broken tiles. These rocky growths are covered with strange slash like glyphs made of vertical and horzontal slashes but seem to have no other purpose. However from the base of the largest stalagmite some 40ft tall and 20ft across a tangle green glowing cystals appears to be "growing"...

 So investigating north or south plaza or pushing towards the beach or deeper into the maze?
For durations, 6 minutes has passed
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Pausing in the space between the two plazas with the strange crystal growths Zarina looks at the walls and mentions the strange druidic runes.  "I cannot read most of them as druidic has been kept so secretive but there are elements of the elemental languages, aquan, auran, ignan and terran there. If they were not so damaged and wind worn I suspect they would be  a living history of the  Order of Storms and how the druids gathered so much data at their library."  

Pausing the multiple Zarina's around her pose in a variety of different positions before she gestures to the south.  "Contable, I think that pathway there may offer a way south without going through the cystal plaza, its seems be a concourse or thoroughfare of sorts."  She motions across a broken wall that stands maybe waist high and leaning against the mossy ston you can peer south and see the ruins form almost a long central corridor towards the beach, where maybe 350ft away you can see distant shapes surrounding the wreckage of the boat from Lashona's scrying. the boat, or at least the sections of the bow you can see look to be beached on the shingle, propped up by planks of wood or bits masts from the other shipwrecks. At least a dozen hulking shapes armed with a variety of pointy things and garbed in leathers are working around the front of the boat as the Orcish captain stands atop the deck borrding.

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125  +30 temp HPs
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC = AC 29
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 28 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 134 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)
Mirrior Image 8 minutes - 8 images

Heroes Feast (Mirriana): Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves
Mass Fly (Merrick): Fly 60ft


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
"We could spend ages wandering in this maze," Mirriana replies to Zarina. "Let's play that crew a visit and see what we can find out!"
DrK
Following the Constables lead the party clamber over the low wall into what appears to be the main thoroughfare and move down between the ancient rune inscribed runes and moss covered chunks of rock, the three heavily armed woman in the lead with Merrick behind them and Lan paralleling their movement slipping from shadow to shadow like small but deadly ghost

As you wander down between the broken walls that line the 50ft wide space you can see that at the end the walls would have formed a great covered walkway facing the sea but are now in ruins and the beach is black rocks and sharp spines upon which a dozen wrecks in tatters and fragments can be seen in varying states of disrepair. Some merely a few seaweed barnacled spars jutting from the stormy waves smashing on the shore, others a rib cage a deck planks and spars.

In the centre the boat you had seen Darl aboard is mostly intact save a for a single large gash in the bow, one that is being industrially repaired by what appears to be about 12 or so heavy set orcs all laden with weapons and covered in tattoos and colourful bandanas and sashes. As you close to maybe 150ft from the shore and work party three more rise from the ruins some 30ft to you left pointing to the women and Merrick (they did not see Lan)


 

The nearest of the three a heavy set woman with darker orcoid skin and white tattoos over her face looks at you. A sizeable black feathered bird of some kind upon her shoulder that watches you with its beast wee eyes.   ”Who by Gruumsh’s unseeing eye are you. You surely did not come here with Darl and his cohorts, and no one is supposed to live upon this storm cursed rock. So who are you to walk so brazenly into our camp?” 

All three have heavy blades drawn and look wary though not openly hostile. The orcs clustered around the bow of the distant ship are preoccupied heaving a great tarpaulin up onto some rigging where others wait beside a great bay of what looks to be bubbling tar as you realise they will likely be tarring the sail cloth to seal it to act as a plug for the hole in the bow.
redzimmer
 Merrick 

As the party moves towards the next confrontation, Merrick takes the time given to add some magical wards to his companions.

" These abjurations should ward off most of the fires and acids cast our way. "

It was always a risk guessing what their foe may toss at them, but efreeti and dark clerics had a certain...  theme  to their attacks.

" You will all have the ability to fly for the next 14 minutes or so. Use this to get over any obstacles and prevent us being herded into a choke point. "

Companions thusly enchanted, he then focuses on his own defenses, summoning a magical shield and wards against evil for himself.

 
 Spoiler: Spells 

 GROUP
 Mass Resist Energy (Fire) /30 140 minutes
Mass Resist Energy (Acid) /30 140 minutes
Mass Fly 14 minutes

 SELF 
Overland Flight 14 hours
Protection From Evil (14 minutes +2 Deflect AC Bonus +2 Bonus to saves vs Evil)
Shield (14 Minutes +4 Shield Bonus to AC)


   Merrick O'Fey   
Male N Human (Onnwal) Wizard/Binder/Anima Mage/Alienist,  Level  2/1/10/1,  Init  3,  HP  12/39,  Speed  35
 AC  22,  Touch  13,  Flat-footed  21,  Fort  8,  Ref  8,  Will  14,  Base Attack Bonus  6
   Quarterstaff   +9/+1 (1d6, x2)
   Ranged Touch Spell   +10/+2 (-, x2)
 25% chance to avoid critical hits or sneak attack damage Twilight Mithral Chain Shirt of Light Fortification +1  (+5 Armor, +4 Shield, +1 Dex, +2 Deflect)
 Abilities  Str 10, Dex 13, Con 11, Int 22, Wis 11, Cha 20
 Condition  Heroes Feast, Overland Flight, Protection From Evil, Shield, Resist Energy Fire 30, Resist Acid 30
 Vestiges Bound   Haures ,  Zceryll 

Born Freeday, the 14th of Readying.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan moved through the ruins silently, keeping to the side of his companions.  He had found there was rarely a time he wanted to be within the bullseye on the main group, so paralleling the others seemed both prudent and natural.  He mentally marked the locations of interest they saw on their way towards the shore - blood-stained door, glowing statue base, green stalagmites growing upwards.  However, it wasn't until they were approaching the orcs and Merrick cast several enchantments that Lan shifted into his combat mode and added a personal spell to the mix.   With his senses empowered, he moved into position and waited, hovering just off the ground, to see what the orcs would do.

 
  OOC : Sneaky sneaking ... holding his attack for now

Effects: embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22  Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I allow Merrick's flight spell to lift me into the air beyond the reach of melee weapons, and I adopt what I hope to be an authoritative pose. I'm not remotely interested in answering the half-orc's questions however.

"Darl Quethos will not be allowed to leave. All who surrender will be spared and provided with alternate passage back to the mainland. Those who fight will go down with this ship! Zarina. Merrick. Torch it!"

I begin casting a summoning spell.

 
 Spoiler 
Begin Summon Monster VII
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina likewise floats off the ground, the wind whipping around her without touching her. As the orcs approach she looks with hostility at the orc pirates and then as Mirriana commands her to torch the ship she smiles,  “Aye Constable, with pleasure”  she says as a glowing dome drops around her and then a massive ball of fire the size of a horse arcs from her hands and detonates on the prow of the ship in a massive gout of flames.
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125  +30 temp HPs
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +8 shield = AC 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 28 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 134 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)
Mirrior Image 8 minutes - 8 images
Shield - 28 minutes (+8AC)


Heroes Feast (Mirriana): Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves
Mass Fly (Merrick): Fly 60ft
Mass resist [acid][fire] (Merrick) 140 mins


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 

 Merrick, Lan and Elkist to go 
DrK
  
 Spoiler: Ooc 


Post ate my dice rolls
Free: Know devotion  (1d20+21)[ 41 ] 
Swift: cast shield
Move: 20ft up
Standard: Lesser Rod empower Fireball  (10d6)[ 34 ]  x1.5 DC 18 ref for half
 
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Merrick mentally counts in his head the number of times their enemies opted to take the offer of mercy then shrugged.

  They never want any easy way. I suppose their devotion could be considered admirable.  

But musings don’t burn boats, so Merrick casts a fireball to compliment Zarina’s.

 
 Spoiler: Bloompf 
Aim for the side Zarina did not hit.  (10d6)[ 34 ] 
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan shook his head at the 'diplomatic' attempt - burning one's ships on a gods forsaken shore within the eye of an eternal storm would likely not result in a favorable outcome for either side.  That being said, he was prepared to end this quickly.  Drawing his bow, he took aim, casting a quick spell to increase the heft of his shafts.

 
  Round 1 : Draw bow (move), cast gravity bow (standard)  Basically waiting for the orcs to initiate combat before firing.

Effects: gravity bow (70 rounds); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22  Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist points at the obvious leader  "Like the lady says. You - you will live if you stand down. So to will any others who acquiesce. We come here to fight, but not with you. You have been warned. Everyone else, come at me now."  She hefts her blade.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Diplomacy FTW  (1d20+17)[ 30 ] 
 

 
 
  
DrK
Even as Elkist tries to offer a peaceful solution fireballs arc from Merrick and Zarina's hands and explode on the prow of the ship with dull  whoomph  accompanied by wails and screams! Orcs collapse screaming, others stand firm and draw weapons and from at least half of them arrows start flying towards the wizards raining flaming death down upon them! AMidst the fire a massive armored hulking beast with the symbols of Grumsh upon him strides forward, it expands to some 12 foot tall as the blessings of Grumsh fall upon it and it's axe glitters with dark purpose, 3 more orcs, follow their leader all still smoking from the fiery assault. .

 


From the three in front of the heroes the woman howls a war cry to grumsh one-eye before leaping at Zarina, the other two attacking Elkist and Merrick cutlass or axe in hand! Zarina and Mirriana recognising the forms of the Tiger Claw from the woman as she attacks Zarina.

 The fireball burns heavily on the Captain and 12 orcs! 4 dying in the double explosion and the others being horrifically burned.
Orc Captain advances with 3 friends casting a quickened Divine Favour and Righteous Might
4 remaining ones shoot at Zarina and Merrick
vs Zarina  (1d20+16)[ 21 ]  dam  (1d8+6)[ 12 ] 
vs Zarina  (1d20+16)[ 19 ]  dam  (1d8+6)[ 8 ] 
vs MErrick  (1d20+16)[ 33 ]  dam  (1d8+6)[ 8 ] 
vs Merrick  (1d20+16)[ 29 ]  dam  (1d8+6)[ 11 ] 


Orc 1 vs Merrick
Rage, move and attack with his greataxe (PA2)  (1d20+19)[ 20 ]  dam  (1d12+19)[ 26 ] 

Orc 2 vs Elkist
Rage, move and attack with his greataxe (PA2)  (1d20+19)[ 38 ]  dam  (1d12+19)[ 30 ] 

Orc 1st Officer vs Zarina
Move, swift action Raging mongoose, Death from above and bonus mongoose attack with two-handed sabre,
DC20 Jump - auto pass for +4d6 dam and to hit vs FF (on the first one)
 (1d20+25)[ 30 ]  dam  (1d8+21)[ 23 ]  +  (4d6)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20+25)[ 41 ]  dam  (1d8+21)[ 24 ] 
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Snorting, Lan flew up and over the orcs, activating one of his items to move rapidly and still fire a full compliment of arrows.  Several shafts came streaking down, weighted with magic as they flew towards those who had chosen death over surrender.

 
  Round 1 : Activate quicksilver boots and fly 30', but stay w/in 30' (swift); Full attack w/rapid shot (full action), magic and cold iron, any arcane, undead, elemental or constructs?
  Attack 1  - (1d20+21)[ 26 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 28 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+16)[ 34 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 25 ] = 30 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+11)[ 24 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 32 
  Attack RS  - (1d20+21)[ 38 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 28 

Effects: gravity bow (69 rounds); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies,  gravity bow ,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

Completing my summoning spell, I drop a huge earth elemental next to the grounded ship!

"Destroy it!" I command, and it begins obliging by smashing mighty planks like matchsticks.

 
 Spoiler: Huge Earth Elemental 
hp152/AC18
Power Attack -12/+24
+1/+1 for touching ground (judging grounded ship is not waterborne).
Slam [roll]1d20+8 (2d10+34)[ 50 ] 
Slam [roll]1d20+8 (2d10+34)[ 46 ] 
According to Stormwrack, ship sections have AC3, so it can only really miss on a 1. Probably need to destroy 6x 80hp hardness 5 sections if it's equivalent to a Caravel, some may already be damaged.
Summoning duration 14 rounds
 


Meanwhile also safely above the battle, I direct or side of the fight. "Lan, pick off any of the crew who fight us and then move onto the leaders!" I suggest.  White Raven Tactics  Lan goes again.

"We'll have less of that," I address the orc captain, as I tag him with a targeted dispel magic.

 
 Spoiler 
Targetted dispel magic, against each ongoing effect. Adding CL (max 10) plus domain bonus +4 to dispel checks.
 (1d20+14)[ 23 ] 
 (1d20+14)[ 26 ] 
 (1d20+14)[ 20 ] 
 (1d20+14)[ 16 ] 
Or more as needed.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  
 "Aye, aye, ma'am. 

 
  Round 1+ : Another salvo ... same bonus.  I don't think I said who the first set of arrows was against, but we'll go with Mir's direction and aim everything at the supporting cast - Targeting archers first, then the other three, then the leader (unless otherwise directed).
  Attack 1  - (1d20+21)[ 30 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 11 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 34 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+16)[ 35 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 19 ] = 24 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+11)[ 21 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 20 ] = 25 
  Rapid shot  - (1d20+21)[ 41 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 42  (presuming a 34 confirms)

Effects: gravity bow (69 rounds); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies,  gravity bow ,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

“ We are trying to be diplomatic here! ” Merrick exclaims as he hurriedly rises above the orcs attack range.

Since the orcs refuse to see reason, Merrick brings forth a pseudonatural hell hound to join the party.

 
 Spoiler: Alienist Summon Monster III 
  https://www.d20srd.org/srd/monsters/hellHound.htm 

Round to summon, attack roll next round.
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina looks at the orc first mate who had sliced through an image and at the others who had done likewise. Grinning she spins around, sword flaring,  "You cannot touch me stupid beast and you shall fall upon my blade"  she adds the last as she lunges with a great slash before rolling backwards a trio of rays of fire erupting from her splayed hand.

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Standard Divine surge (power attack 2)  (1d20+19)[ 32 ]   dam  (1d12+11)[ 23 ]  +  (8d8)[ 37 ] 
Move: 5ft step
Swift: Circlet rapid casting Scorching ray
    (1d20+19)[ 32 ]  vs touch  (4d6)[ 8 ]  fire
    (1d20+19)[ 32 ]  vs touch  (4d6)[ 11 ]  fire
    (1d20+19)[ 29 ]  vs touch  (4d6)[ 10 ]  fire


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125  +30 temp HPs
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +8 shield = AC 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 28 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 134 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)
Mirrior Image 8 minutes - 4 images
Shield - 28 minutes (+8AC)
Know Devotion (+4)

Heroes Feast (Mirriana): Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves
Mass Fly (Merrick): Fly 60ft
Mass resist [acid][fire] (Merrick) 140 mins


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) [Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
THe battle goes poorly for orcs! As the orc archers hang back the lithe little halfling races to close the distance with them, a slew of javelins flying from his hand and fighting vital locations like eyes and throats skewering the 4 singed and burned orcish archers, giving rise to a strangled grunt of rage from the Captain and the orcs with him.

By the party the two orcs slice at Elkist and Zarina to little effect, Zarina's mirror images shattering around her as the orc and the hulking first offer miss her and instead hit the magical figments. Merrick hovering above it all begins to summon a beast from a far dimension and Zarina offers a savage blow to the 1st officer followed up by a trio of rays of fire that scar the greenskin's chest. Mirriana flies up and drops a ward of antimagic upon the Captain, however his casting is strong and only his weapon seems to dim slightly as the magic augmentation is blunted.

With the archers dead the Captain nods and two of the foot orcs race at surprising speed (80ft charge range) at Zarina, axes swinging at magus. The other running towards Elkist, blade swinging hard. The orcs by Elkist and Zarina continue their attack as well, more of Zarina's images exploding under the attack! The first officer lands with agilty pulling out a long handle kukri with great speed before launching a frenzied attack on Zarina even as she reels back from the wounds and blood streaking down her frame

 
vs Zarina  (1d20+19)[ 38 ]  dam  (1d12+19)[ 28 ] 
vs Zarina   (1d20+19)[ 32 ]  dam  (1d12+19)[ 27 ] 

vs Elkist  (1d20+19)[ 38 ]  dam  (1d12+19)[ 28 ] 

vs Elkist  (1d20+17)[ 31 ]  dam  (1d12+19)[ 26 ] 
vs Elkist  (1d20+12)[ 28 ]  dam  (1d12+19)[ 29 ] 

vs Zarina  (1d20+17)[ 29 ]  dam  (1d12+19)[ 20 ]  image  (1d5)[ 5 ]  5 is against Zarina
vs Zarina  (1d20+12)[ 19 ]  dam  (1d12+19)[ 31 ]  image  (1d4)[ 2 ]  or  (1d5)[ 5 ]  high number vs Zarina

1st Officer Full attack - images  (1d4)[ 2 ]  (1d4)[ 3 ]   (1d3)[ 2 ]  (1d3)[ 1 ]   (1d3)[ 1 ]  (1d2)[ 1 ]   (1d2)[ 2 ]  (1d2)[ 2 ] 
 (1d20+23)[ 36 ]  dam  (1d8+21)[ 29 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 19 ]  dam  (1d8+21)[ 29 ] 
 (1d20+13)[ 28 ]  dam  (1d8+21)[ 27 ] 
 (1d20+20)[ 38 ]  dam  (1d4+16)[ 18 ] 
 (1d20+15)[ 22 ]  dam  (1d4+16)[ 18 ] 
 

The orcish Captain, pauses, burned and angry before reaching into the deepest recesses of Grumshs' realm as a massive green foot, with long barbed nails and green hairy skin slams down on the party with savage glee engulfing all but Lan! Even as he does that blades spring around him creating a mass of spinning barbed chains and he advances closer

 Orc Captain casts Wretched blight hitting Elkist, Zarina, Mirriana and Merrick
Fort DC 22 for half (and no stun)  (15d8)[ 79 ]  and stun  (1d4)[ 2 ] 
- if neutral then half and save for quarter
- if evil then no effects

Also casts quickened Ring of Blades

 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

With the four archers killed, Lan continued to follow Mirriana's direction by flying overhead and launching several more arrows at the orcs attacking Elkist and Zarina.

 
  Round 2 : Second verse, same as the first!  Shooting at the burned orcs attacking Elkist and Z first, then the unharmed ones that were already near.  First officer and Captain will come later, I suppose.

Activate Quicksilver boots (swift), Fly 30' horizontally overhead, while maintaining a 30' altitude over his targets (free w/swift), full attack w/rapid shot and point blank (full)
  Attack 1  - (1d20+22)[ 32 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 27 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+17)[ 31 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 26 ] = 35 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+12)[ 14 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 29 ] = 36 
  Rapid Shot  - (1d20+22)[ 24 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 30 

Effects: gravity bow (68 rounds); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies,  gravity bow ,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

" Close Wounds! " I cast, seeing Merrick fall to the spell. That should a least get him back in the fight enough to see to his own wounds. Even for myself the effect of the orcish spell isn't pleasant, but for the moment I'm not seriously harmed.

Seeing the orcish captain's resistance to my dispel, I dig deeper into my antimagical reserves. "Greater Dispel Magic!"

Meanwhile my elemental continues to smash holes in the ship.

 
 Spoiler 

Immediate: close wounds  (1d4+5)[ 7 ]  healing for Merrick.

Standard: Targeted greater dispel magic vs every ongoing magical effect.
 (1d20+18)[ 38 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 21 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 30 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 24 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 28 ] 
 (1d20+18)[ 22 ] 

Elemental vs the ship:
Slam  (1d20+8)[ 9 ]  (2d10+34)[ 50 ] 
Slam  (1d20+8)[ 22 ]  (2d10+34)[ 42 ] 
 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

The unholy hell knocks the Wizard down for the moment, but the timely intervention of Mir and Mystara props him right back up.

  As philosophies go, I’m beginning to lean more to the side of good…  

Touching a jewel on his healing belt, Merrick commands his abominable hound to join the property damage.

The mockery of a hellhound breathes at the splintering ship.

 
 Spoiler: Hounding and Healing 

 (2d4)[ 4 ]  fire breath cone at the ship

 (2d8)[ 14 ]  healing for Merrick

 
DrK
[QUOTE=DrK;25574642]      
     Zarina    

Zarina lets out a brief cry as the orcish first mate release the savagery of the tiger Claw upon her at the same time as 3 more orcs all attack her with great boarding axes or heavy bladed cutlasses/cleavers. Multiple images of Zarina shatter into glass like illusions as the mirror images are smashed apart and then an axe from one of the charging beserkers and the kurki from the 1st officer bite deep, blood soaking her loose battle worn green dress that she wears under the armour. More misery follows as she emerges coughing, skin blistering from the blight from the Captain.

Surrounded by 4 orcs she switches, channeling arcane power into her frame as she catches fire with the stance of the mystic phoenix, before leaping into the air, a savage cut to her thigh from the 1st officer, before releasing a great cone of fire directly down at her feet engulfing all four orcs
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Swift: enter Stance of mystic phoenix (+1 CL, +2 Dodge AC, DR 10/evil) (burning spell sequencer)
Move: Tumble "upwards" 20ft  (1d20+16)[ 21 ]  Vs DC 23
Standard: Cone of Fire  (15d6)[ 43 ]  Ref DC 21 for half

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  43 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +8 shield = AC 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 28 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 134 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)
Shield - 28 minutes (+8AC)
Know Devotion (+4)

Heroes Feast (Mirriana): Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves
Mass Fly (Merrick): Fly 60ft
Mass resist [acid][fire] (Merrick) 140 mins


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Active] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) [Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

The orc warriors prove formidable, heavy blows landing as the chaos of battle erupts, even as Elkist tries to dodge and parry. She has only a brief moment to call on Heironeous' healing aid before the captain's spell smashes her leaving her groaning as her consciousness fades...

 
 Spoiler: info 
Axe 30 + 28 + 26 + 29 damage
lay on hands +14hp
39 damage spell

=&gt; Elkist is at -1 hp
 

 
 
  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 
Seeing Elkist go down I move to defend her.

 
 Spoiler 

No immediate action healing left, but I do have an unused move action.
 
DrK
Slaughter is wrought upon the sands of the ancient druidic temples. The massive green fist of the grumsh crashes down into the party with devastating force dealing grievous wounds to all, only mirriana's blessings keeping Merrick's soul from fleeing his injured little frame. EVen as he does so the orcs surround Zarina and Elkist in a flurry of axes and chopping blades, Zarina is left reeling, images shattering and blood pouring from her frame and Elkist can do little more than give a strange cry as she is battered down by the heavy axe blows. The orc standing above her, raised for the deathblow gives a strangle cry though, a pair of javelins slamming into its skull, another one piercing an orc fighting Zarina. The wound was not fatal, but the aftermath was as she rose aloft, a nasty slice to her leg from the orchish frenzied 1st officer before she unleashed the wave of flames burning the three orcish crew to ash and bones and leaving the orcish 1st mate reeling from the last, one eye clouded and burnt and her hair now naught by a savage field of blistered flesh.   Mirriana floating atop the battlefield gestures at the Orcish captain and his magic fade and crumble, the spinning blades dissipating, his armour losing its glowing sense of menace and then he shrinks from his 12 foot stature to his normal hulking 6 and a half foot height!


By the boat there is a terrible crunching noise as with a gesture from Merrick a great red furred flaming hound of hell leaps forth setting the rigging on fire even as the earth elemental tears the entire prow section off the boat causing the entire thing to topple onto its side, further staving in the ribs of the crippled vessel.

THe battle has been rough, only a single wounded orc has survived alongside the Captain and the first officer (and she is badly injured). THey three green skins gaze angrily at Merrick, Lan, Zarina and Mirriana all flying high above the battlefield.  WIth a savage gesture Mirriana feels assailed by the Hand of Grumsh as the capatin seeks to strip her of her magical protections,  "You'll fall to your deaths at the my crew's hand ye witch"  he bellows at her as he tries to dispel her flight

 Greater dispel magic at Mirriana  (10d20)[ 2 ][ 15 ][ 3 ][ 6 ][ 2 ][ 12 ][ 6 ][ 6 ][ 3 ][ 2 ](57)  each at +15 for grater dispel to try and strip Mirriana of her protections
 

EVen as he tries to obliterate her magical protections he calls forth the dark powers of his god quickening more magic as a stream of dark magical bolts spring forth targetting Zarina and Merrick

 Divine Quickened Dark bolt
vs Zarina  (1d20+18)[ 19 ]  vs touch  (2d8)[ 14 ]  unholy damage  and Will DC 18 or dazed 1 round
vs Zarina  (1d20+18)[ 35 ]  vs touch  (2d8)[ 10 ]  unholy damage  and Will DC 18 or dazed 1 round
vs Zarina  (1d20+18)[ 22 ]  vs touch  (2d8)[ 9 ]  unholy damage  and Will DC 18 or dazed 1 round
vs Zarina  (1d20+18)[ 33 ]  vs touch  (2d8)[ 7 ]  unholy damage  and Will DC 18 or dazed 1 round
vs Merrick  (1d20+18)[ 29 ]  vs touch  (2d8)[ 6 ]  unholy damage  and Will DC 18 or dazed 1 round
vs Merrick  (1d20+18)[ 24 ]  vs touch  (2d8)[ 10 ]  unholy damage  and Will DC 18 or dazed 1 round
vs Merrick  (1d20+18)[ 27 ]  vs touch  (2d8)[ 10 ]  unholy damage  and Will DC 18 or dazed 1 round




 
RCgothic
I steel myself andgrimace slightly as the antimagic washes over me and my  Protection From Evil  and  Celestial Brilliance  spells wink out. An annoyance, but not doing me any significant harm. The darkbolt against my companions however I dare not allow to stand! Raising my holy symbol I try and counter with my own burst of divine antimagic!

"Enough with the ship! Tear these three apart!" I call to the elemental, re-tasking it now the ship is destroyed.

 
 Spoiler 

Immediate action, +1 turn attempt &amp; Greater Dispel Magic to counterspell Darkbolt:  (1d20+19)[ 27 ]  Vs DC26?

Huge Elemental Charge/Awesome Blow Vs Orc Captain:  (1d20+18)[ 25 ]  damage  (2d10+9)[ 27 ]  plus reflex DC=damage or knocked 10ft and prone.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan hovered overhead, watching with both rage and helplessness as Zarina and his friends continued to be struck with blade and spell.  He almost switched targets, but had to trust Mir would deal with the others - he had his task.  He let loose with another four arrows, his bow practically thrumming as he fired.

 
  Round 3 : Keep it up ... finish off the last of the orcs, then move to the first officer and finally captain.

Activate Quicksilver boots (swift), Fly 30' horizontally overhead, while maintaining a 30' altitude over his targets (free w/swift), full attack w/rapid shot and point blank (full)
  Attack 1  - (1d20+22)[ 38 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 15 ] = 25 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+17)[ 28 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 11 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 16 ] = 27 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+12)[ 18 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 16 ] = 23 
  Rapid Shot  - (1d20+22)[ 25 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 29 

Effects: gravity bow (68 rounds); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies,  gravity bow ,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
redzimmer
 Merrick 

Desperately Merrick wills the enchanted eye on his forehead to abjure him from the magical onslaught, the result leaving him barely conscious.

 
 Spoiler: Wills and Third-Eye Dampening 
Brings one of the 2D8 10’s to a 2, so instead of 26, 18. Yay 2 HP!

Will Saves vs Dark Bolt
 (1d20+14)[ 17 ] 
 (1d20+14)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20+14)[ 27 ] 
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina trails blood as she flies skywards, her green dress sheeted scarlet from the deep slashes from the orcs and their savage first officer. She quails steeling herself for likley death as the dark energy forms around the War priest of Grumsh, but just as the dark energy is about to be released Mirriana is there, a pulse from mystara's symbol draining the magic from the dark bolts.

Lan flies past moments later, a flurry of javelins flying from his hands and the last orc falls with a thud the first officer screaming her defiance as two javlins tear into her and she collapses into the ruins trailing blood as the life drains from her eyes.

With only the Captain left Zarina looks down at hi, face like thunder and and dives forward, a cry of  "For the lightning lord"  as she attacks in concert with the massive earth elemental that punches the captain sending him flying landing in a heap, grunting in pain. Zarina lands beside his prone form chopping savagely downwards even as glowing missiles like tiny bolts of lightning precede her slamming into the orc
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 



Stance of mystic phoenix (+1 CL, +2 Dodge AC, DR 10/evil) (burning spell sequencer)
Swift: Circlet rapid casting for magic missile from the gloves  (5d4+5)[ 18 ]  Force damage
Move: To the prone orc
Standard: Chop (PA6)  (1d20+26)[ 30 ]  dam  (1d12+23)[ 28 ] 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  43 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +8 shield = AC 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 28 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 134 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)
Shield - 28 minutes (+8AC)
Know Devotion (+4)

Heroes Feast (Mirriana): Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves
Mass Fly (Merrick): Fly 60ft
Mass resist [acid][fire] (Merrick) 140 mins


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Active] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) [Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
Elkist lies bleeding on the ground, Merrick hangs in the air stunned by flashes of madness from Zceryll burning his mind and the orcish Captain looks up at Zarina as she stands above him, the hulking earth elemental just behind the warrior mage and both Mirriana and Lan hovering in the air nearby. Seeing his first mate dead and all of his crew the Captain bellows a great cry and a prayer to Grumsh as he pulls himself up to his feet, Zarina's blade bouncing off the beast's armour.

Dark power swirls around the orc as he reaches out and tries to touch Zarina with a hand crackling with deadly energy. Even as he does that he follows up, pulling energy into himself, green energy sealing his wounds.



 OOC
Stand up (Zarina's AoO missed)
Quickened Cure Critical  (4d8+15)[ 38 ] 
Cast defeinsively Harm on Zarina  (1d20+16)[ 25 ]  to touch her. 150 damage; will save for 75 (but not below 1)
 -- If it hits  (1d20+14)[ 24 ]  vs DC 22

 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I wince as the orc captain casts harm on Zarina, but with a quick prayer I tether her soul to her body so that no amount of physical damage can cause it to depart. I drop down onto the ground to protect my wounded allies and flank with the enormous elemental. It smashes at the captain once again attempting to send him flying.

 
 Spoiler 
Immediate: Delay Death on Zarina.
Move: Land and flank.

Huge Elemental
Awesome Blow: (1d20+20)[ 29 ]  damage (2d10+10)[ 15 ]  plus Reflex DC=Damage or prone
Awesome Blow: (1d20+20)[ 35 ]  damage (2d10+10)[ 20 ]  plus Reflex DC=Damage or prone
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

With a snarl, Lan moved again, firing off three arrows this time, all at the Captain.    "You're already dead, you sunnuvabiatch ..."  

 
  Round 4 : Fly 30' horizontally overhead, while maintaining a 30' altitude over the Captain (move), Greater Manyshot w/point blank (standard)
  Attack 1  - (1d20+18)[ 30 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 24 ] = 34 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+18)[ 23 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 24 ] = 30 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+18)[ 30 ] ,   Damage  - (1d8+3)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 16 ] = 25 

Effects: gravity bow (67 rounds); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies,  gravity bow ,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+22, 1d6+2 / +23, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
Even as cracking energy flows over Zarina the young mage screams in pain, only just clinging to her frame. She feels her soul being tethered to her body by Mirriana before the Captain is smashed away from her, the massive orc rolling across the shrub and grass as a stony fist smashed into it

He doesn’t get a chance to rise as a flurry of javelins slam into his body, only able to cough up gouts of green blood as he is pinned to the ground by the angry Lan
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina breathes a sigh of relief slumping down into her knees. Her skin is pale and clammy and her side is sheeted with blood from the orc savagery.  ”Thank you.”  she says simply to Lan as he floats over the dead Captain.

Then  “Thanks to both of you.”  she adds including Mirriana in her warm smile. Struggling to her feet she looks at the devastation with orc bodies littering the smoking wreckage by the shore and more orcs in the still smouldering grass where Elkist lies.  “is she alive, is she ok?”  Zarina asks as she limps across towards the downed paladin
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  43 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +8 shield = AC 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 28 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 134 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)
Shield - 28 minutes (+8AC)
Know Devotion (+4)

Heroes Feast (Mirriana): Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves
Mass Fly (Merrick): Fly 60ft
Mass resist [acid][fire] (Merrick) 140 mins


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Active] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) [Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan landed with a small thud, letting the healer types help the unmoving heroes.  Putting away his bow, he moved to check the bodies of each of the orcs - both to ensure none of them were still breathing as well as checking what items they had.  He nodded awkwardly to Zarina, uncomfortable with the praise before glancing at the ship and grunting to Mir.   "Might need some magic if you want to search the ship." 

 
  OOC : Whew!  So, looting away

Effects: gravity bow (66 rounds); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies,  gravity bow ,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+22, 1d6+2 / +23, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
To Zarina's relief the paladin is indeed alive, although Elkists's skin is ashen and pale and blood has pooled in the sandy gravel around her. Zarina does not look much better, her side still dripping blood where the savage orcish mistress of the Tiger Claw had taken out some massive chunks and her breath still catching from the pain of the Priest of Grumsh's powerful magical assault. Looking at Mirriana who still looks relatively serene Zarina shakes her head.   "A close run thing priestess. If there had been more of them, or Darl Quethos had been here that could have ended differently. At least now with the ship and crew gone Darl Quethos and his followers will not be able to flee so easily."   

As Lan lands beside her she drops to one knee and embraces the halifling.   "My thanks again. Your quick throws have once more saved my life. At some point we shall have to work out how I am to repay you."   she adds, a smile on her face, despite the pain. Looking around she starts helping Lan to stack the armour and weapons from the dead orcs and dragging the dead back to the still burning wreckage of the boat where each of the orcs can be tossed into the massive bonfire pyre. As she tosses each one it the fire she clutches the holy symbol at her throat and offers a prayer to the Lightning Lord for each of the Orcs.

That done she survesy the loot and trinkets that have been recovered and then turns to the others.   "THere must be something in these ruins that will help us find the Library of Last Resort? Shall we heal up and search onwards"  
 OOC
using 3x 1 charges of the healing belt  (2d8)[ 11 ]   (2d8)[ 9 ]   (2d8)[ 12 ]  (before healing at 43/125 Hps)


LOOT

Each Orc carries....

14 x Assorted +1 Weapons  (Greataxe (5), military cutlass (treat as scimitar) (3), Longspear (2), Orc double axe (2), Harpoon (1), Falchion (1)
14 x Studded leather armour +1
14 x Potions [Water breathing] [Cure moderate]

On the Priest/Captain

Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification
Orc Double Axe +1 dwarf bane / +1 flaming w/ lesser of return
Cloak of resistance +2
Holy reliquary symbol (Grumsh) of Wisdom +4
Potions [Cure Serious Wounds (2), Protection from Good, Barkskin (+3)]
Wands [Ring of Blades CL8 22 charges; Cure Moderate 33 charges]
Bracers of Strength +4

On the First Mate
Boots striding and springing
Studded leather +3
Tiger claw kukri +2
Batorian green steel Hand axe +1
Fetish (necklace) of Tiger Claw stance ( blood in the water) 
Gloves of Dexterity +4



 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    
 "My thanks,"  says Elkist, smiling as she accepts the hand up even as she winces in pain. She to offers a quick prayer over the dead as she circles the area taking in the destruction of the fight.  "That looked like the full crew. Darl Quethos will have only his few cronies with him now. The tieflings, the efreet and the kenku." 

Having checked over her armour and equipment she grabs hold of an orcish longspear jutting from the ground and hefts it testing the weight.  "Lets find them and stop them" 
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Presuming Mirriana brings Elkist to consciousness.

Takes:
longspear +1
spiked +1 full plate of fortification +2
 

 
 
  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina prowls around stretching as the healing belt restores some of the damage and then thanks Mirriana as she is touched the wand that slowly knits the burnt flesh together. As Elkist rises and washes the armour in the sea Zarina helps her rinse the armour,   "Orc certainly carries a strong aroma. I wonder how long it will keep the smell? I should be able to help when rested, or at least change the smell"   she offers (mainly by offering to presdigitate the armour clean).

With the orcs dealt with she nods at Elkist's fierce words and grins.   "Yes, these ruins must hold some secrets that will unveil the way into the Library of last resort"  . Once Lan, Mirriana and Merrcik are also healed up she'll gesture around the ruins,   "Which way do you think Mirriana? Or Lan? Can you track where Darl and his cronies went?"  
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  108 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +8 shield = AC 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 94 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)


Heroes Feast (Mirriana): Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves
Mass Fly (Merrick): Fly 60ft
Mass resist [acid][fire] (Merrick) 80 mins


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Active] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 

 
LOOT

Each Orc carries....

13 x Assorted +1 Weapons (Greataxe (5), military cutlass (treat as scimitar) (3), Longspear (1), Orc double axe (2), Harpoon (1), Falchion (1)
1 x Longspear +1  -----&gt; Elkist 
14 x Studded leather armour +1
12 remaining x Potions [Water breathing] [Cure moderate]    ---&gt; Zarina Cure moderate x2, Water breathing 2x2 

Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification   ----&gt; Elkist 
Orc Double Axe +1 dwarf bane / +1 flaming w/ lesser of return
Cloak of resistance +2
Holy reliquary symbol (Grumsh) of Wisdom +4
Potions [Cure Serious Wounds (2), Protection from Good, Barkskin (+3)]
Wands [Ring of Blades CL8 22 charges; Cure Moderate 33 charges]
Bracers of Strength +4

Boots striding and springing
Studded leather +3
Tiger claw kukri +2
Batorian green steel Hand axe +1
Fetish (necklace) of Tiger Claw stance (blood in the water)
Gloves of Dexterity +4

 So I'm assuming that Wand of Cure Moderate will go to Elkist or Mirriana.
Zarina would be interested in Either the Gloves of Dex OR the Bracers of Strength? Any preferences or objections 
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Relieved his companions are fine, even if he doesn't say anything, Lan perused the items, finding only the gloves to be of any real value to him.  Of course, if Zarina mentions them, he will say nothing, letting the lovely warrior take them as he prepares to lead on.  Turning to Mir, he grunts,  "You ready to move on?"   When she gives the nod, Lan will start to track, look about for signs of the direction in which the others went.

 
  OOC : I think Lan would like the Gloves, as they provide him better dex (always good for the ranged dude).  As for the other stuff, I suppose he could take 2 and 2 of the water breathing and CMW potions.  Not sure anything else really helps him.  Even the leather armor isn't as good as what he's wearing.  Did we want to check the boat?

  Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 24 ] ,   Search  - (1d20+20)[ 21 ]  or   Survival  - (1d20+13)[ 15 ] 
EDIT: There's the Lan luck!

 Effects : gravity bow (66 rounds); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies,  gravity bow ,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+22, 1d6+2 / +23, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
As the healing goes on Lan starts to scout out and about climbing above walls or flying up into the air to have a look out into the maze of ancient crumbling ruins. Towards the centre of the maze he then spies something of interest, the top of the rim of a large circular disc hewn from obsidian. To Lan's sharp eyes it harkens back to the ancient ring that had surrounded the ancient Spire of Long Shadows. Around the rim at three points in the circumference Lan's sharp eyes can see holes or dents, but without getting closer (a few hundred feet to the clearing its in) its hard to get details of what the dents may hold (or be missing) or any inscriptions.

He also see's a few other things of interest that may suggest other clearings or openings. The previously seen square of shattered crystalline spars, a shimmer of water where a pool of some kind may be and a third opening in the ruined walls where numerous spindly stone stalagmite tips can be seen jutting above the walls.

 OOC
4 options
1/ Obsidian Ring
2/ Pool of water
3/ Stone spires
4/ Crystal  fragments

 
  
 Spoiler: LOOT 


Each Orc carries....

13 x Assorted +1 Weapons (Greataxe (5), military cutlass (treat as scimitar) (3), Longspear (1), Orc double axe (2), Harpoon (1), Falchion (1)
1 x Longspear +1  -----&gt; Elkist 
14 x Studded leather armour +1
10 remaining x Potions [Water breathing] [Cure moderate]    ---&gt; Zarina Cure moderate x2, Water breathing 2x2, Lan CMW x2, Water breathing x2 

Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification   ----&gt; Elkist 
Orc Double Axe +1 dwarf bane / +1 flaming w/ lesser of return
Cloak of resistance +2
Holy reliquary symbol (Grumsh) of Wisdom +4
Potions [Cure Serious Wounds (2), Protection from Good, Barkskin (+3)]
Wands [Ring of Blades CL8 22 charges; Cure Moderate 33 charges]
Bracers of Strength +4  ---&gt; Mirriana

Boots striding and springing
Studded leather +3
Tiger claw kukri +2
Batorian green steel Hand axe +1
Fetish (necklace) of Tiger Claw stance (blood in the water)
Gloves of Dexterity +4
 
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Coming back to the group, Lan reported what he had found.  Peering back towards the maze, he grunted,  "I'm thinking the obsidian ring matches what the dragonlady mentioned ... but you all know more about secret libraries then me.  Where to?" 

 
  OOC : So gloves to Lan?  And is the boat completely destroyed, or any salvageables?

 Effects : gravity bow (66 rounds); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies,  gravity bow ,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+22, 1d6+2 / +23, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
RCgothic
"It's as you say, the ring of obsidian sounds most likely," I agree with our handling scout, making sure the unclaimed spoils are still gathered up to be sold later

"I'm a little concerned I've used a lot of my high-level magic already today, but it enemy has the lead so we should not wait it it can be helped. Let's investigate the ring "
DrK
The party move out, walking or flying through the ancient stones. As the wind from the ring of storms whips around nearby there are low hums and whines as the wind rolls through the lichen covered structures. Strange runes still abound and increase in number as you close on the open space where the obsidian ring is.

Reaching it all of magical sensitive heroes can feel the magic radiating from the strange black ring of obsidian with tye same repeating runes and graceful patterns that you’d seen on the ring in the jungles near the last spire. At three points around the ring a fist sized hole is open with strange swirling patterns leading into it.

Mirriana, Merrick and Zarina can all feel the swirling conjugation magic around the ring. On the ground near the ring there are three discarded chunks of crystal, one a deep blood red, one a shimmering azure blue and one a vibrant emerald green. Lan seeing the broken ground spies footprints and marks consistent with a pair of massive large burning feet and several other sets of boots and with them terminating in the ring.

Likewise Zarina and Merrick deduce that the crystals complete the ring structure and when supplied with arcane or divine energies the gateway will open. Zarina looks at the crystals and then at Mirriana  ”It requires raw power to activate the gate. It doesn’t matter what manner of magic the ring will absorb the power.” 
 OOC
If you plug in the 3 crystals and supply it with 12 spell levels the gateway will open

 
RCgothic
"This is going to take a fair amount of magic expenditure.", I lament, plugging the crystals into their slots. "OK everyone, get ready," I warn.

To start with I tap the first crystal with four charges from my wand of  Lesser Restoration .

For the second crystal, I fuel it with a  Dark Way  and an  Elation .

For the final crystal,  Mass Shield of Faith !
DrK
As the party cluster around the ring Mirriana steps forward and releases a vast surge of Mystara's power into the ring. Even as she does Zarina reaches out and offers her an embrace,   "You did not have to take it all upon yourself... I have arcane reserves."   She can say little else as the power flows into the obsidian ring, crackling lightning flashes in a great sheet of blood reds, actinic blues and deep emerald greens before it reaches out with tendrils of arcane power that capture and grab you sucking through the swirling portal.

Your senses swim as noise and light assail you before what seems the briefest second you appear standing on the massive obsidian disc once more but in a different world. The sudden shift in environment is shocking and overwhelming for a moment. The sound of the raging tempest gone replaced by a gentle wind carrying birdsong and the drone of buzzing insects. The sky above is slightly overcast but flecks of silver and gold flicker in the clouds. The edge of a sprawling black forest with trees towering hundreds of feet into the air fills the view in one direction. Dense and overgrown the branches sag with moss and leaves, the dark eaves brushing the ground like a great curtain of greenery. From within comes a cacophony insects and singing birds. Here and there and only in the corner of your sight a green glow flickers and glimmers but always vanishes before you can focus upon it. In the other directions grassy hills covered with thick scrub and long grass fill the very near horizon.   To the the opposite side of the forest the hills rise rapidly into towering rocky barren mountains. Your view of distance skewed by the short horizons and strange dull light. Lightning flickers amongst the peaks and the dull rumble of thunder contrasts the bird song.  Even as you slowly become aware of your surroundings you realise that not all of you are there... Merrick, the master of arcane cannot be seen and only the three women of the holy orders (Mirriana, Zarina, Elkist) and their diminutive halfling brutal skirmisher (Lan) has made the trip.

As you look around there is a flicker in the trees and 4 beings step out from the nearest trees a hundred or so feet away. THey look strange and unearthly even while resembling "people". The tall gallant looking figures are bedecked in gossamer armour with cloaks of viscious nettles draped on their shoulders. A halo of insects surrounds each one. In their hands each holds a strange barbed spear and on their backs each has four flag poles bearinga  banner; fiery red tinged with flames; translucent white trailing wisps of cloud; deep brown and cracked like dry earth and the last a deep ocean blue writhing with bubbles.


 

The nearest of the strange looking fey guardians steps closer raising the spear above his head, clearly offering truce while he speaks.  "I am Tylantharos, guardian of this realm. We are the Last Resort as surely as the trees, rocks and stones and sea around you. We protect the secrets of this Land from all trespassers.
You have mastered the portal of storms so you must be brave but it remains to be seen if your belong here at all. Why have you come to Last Resort?" 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

The guardians make no threatening moves, so neither do I in return.

"Please believe we would not be intruding without good reason" I explain. "We are pursuing a powerful servant of the Dracolich Dragotha who wishes to reclaim his phylactery. Dragotha in turn is a servant of the worm-god Kyuss. We fear that with his phylactery returned to him, Dragotha may actually be powerful enough to bring about the prophesied return of Kyuss, which would be doom for the entire material plane and possibly beyond! We have to stop Darl Quethos from retrieving it!"

 
 Spoiler 
Attempting Diplomacy [roll]1d20+12
 
DrK
The peaceful words clearly don't have a large effect on the fey as weapons are still raised slightly, but you get the impression it is waryness rather than actual threat they are showing you. The one called Tylantharos takes another step forward before speaking again in their strangely musical voice.  "You seek though you may not realise it. The fountain of dreams is linked to all things in the Last Resort. The earth, the trees of the Doomshroud, the clouds above, my life and that of my brothers are part of it. If the water's are consumed the Order of Storms's Rites are undone. All of the knowledge kept secret from the world will be release and the great creatures of legend imprisoned upon this isle will be unleashed upon the Material Plane once more. You say you are heroes..."
  At those words the other three strange watchers laugh with musical voices.  "Then prove it. Accomplish four tasks and prove yourselves to be the heroes of old returned. The fountain shall not be despoiled lightly. You say the others are villians and servants of our nemisis yet they spoke the words of the Order and knew of the four trials. Though they carried an artifact of fell power their aura's did not have the blemish of evil upon them."   
 The fey have been disconnected from the material plane for centuries and are quite neutral. The spell casters realise that Darl et al may have used non detection and the like to quash their auras of evil when dealing with the Fey Watchers. 

He pauses again to look at his fellow fey then back receiving nods from all three, looks back to you.  "The fountain of dreams shall know those destined for its gifts in but one way. It will know them by the Trials of Tilagos. Survive these trials and you may slake your thirst on waht you seek. For the fountain holds much knowledge and is what you seek. Fail and Last resort shall be your grave."  He pauses to gesture around the strange island demiplane with with his spear before with jumping into the air and shouting loudly.

 "I am Tylantharos. The first trial is the claiming of Krathanos's Golden Belt" . Beside it the second then leaps into the air shouting loudly.  "I am Beskawahn and the second trial is the silence of the Doomshroud's Mournful Song" . The next one to speak is on the far end,  "The third trial you seek shall be the death of the thorn vale nightmare. I am Thadimar and so shall it be."  The fourth one pauses looking to the sky and the distant mountains.  "I am Sayren-Lei and the final trial is the harvest of a Feather from the Roc King."  

They speak and in your minds you can see the island swirling in your throughts as they present you a view of the island to aid you in your trials.  "We favour all of those who quest with this knowledge so that all may be judged equally. But hurry for the library is free to those who are worthy, no matter their view of the mortal realms.  
 
 Spoiler: Big Map of Tialgos 

 

The clearing with the portal and the fey: 0912
The doomshroud: 1210 in the forest
Kranthos's Keep: 1615 on the southern coast
The nightmare vale: 0507 in the low mountains
King Roc is at the mountain peak: 0702
 


As Sayren finishes Tylantharos speaks once more.  "Accomplish these 4 trials and return here. We shall show you the fountain of dreams, until then we wait, and watch If you prove yourself and the others do not then that shall be the truth of what you speak. Our time is passed, our watch is done"  . As he speaks the last the other 3 begin to fade back into the trees, only Tylantharos lingering for a moment if you wish to shout a question to him but you can all sense the massive weariness within the fey as he may be looking for a release even if the outcome may not be beneficial for the rest of the material plane...
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina offers a small curtsy to the strange fey Watchers of the Wild.   "Do you possess the knowledge we seek in the library should we even complete these challenges."   To her question the 3rd Watcher, Thadimr speaks in his low voice   "The library see's all that the Order saw. We saw the rise of the Worm God, we were there for the chaining of the ziggurat and we saw the theft of what you seek. We will speak no more, but know when the library is unveiled it will flow to all corners of the world."   

Zarina pauses,   "What does that mean?"   to which Beskawahn, the slender second watcher, replies   "When you unveil it the knowledge will flow into all the lost books. Scholars will find new pages in their scrolls, libraries will discover the lost tomes on their shelves and sages will awake with the knowledge burning their mind"    Zarina steps back considering and then looks Mirriana, Elkist and Lan.   "I do wish Merrick were here with us, but this will cause some issues, everyone may gain access to this knowledge when the Library is unveiled. We shall be in a race against all interested parties. Although I guess..."     and here she shrugs looking at the ragged burnt, torn and worn green dress that she wears under her armour, greaves and vambraces   "That sort of time pressure will not be new to many of us"  

Looking "north" to the Mountains or south to the forest and coast she asks Mirriana and Elkist,   "So do think Roc's and a nightmare first to the north or to the south to the forest and the keep?"  
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  108 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +8 shield = AC 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin 24 minutes (+5 Nat Armour, Fire Res 20)


Heroes Feast (Mirriana): Immune POison/Fear, +1 to will Saves
Mass Fly (Merrick): Fly 60ft
Mass resist [acid][fire] (Merrick) 80 mins


Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Active] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan listened to the group speak, a frown growing on his face.  After the speaker finished, Lan growled aloud.   "What a load of crap.  You ain't lookin' for heroes ... you lot are looking for a way out.  You want questions?  I got some.  What did you tell the 'good' group carrying around the Hand of Vecna ... the same thing ya told us?

What did they ask and what answers did you give?

Which way did they go?

Do we have to do them in order?

How do we keep the knowledge hidden?" 

 
  OOC : Pushing buttons!  How much time has passed since we ended the fight?

 Effects : embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies,  gravity bow ,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+22, 1d6+2 / +23, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 1/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
The multihued fey looks at the halfling coldly before answering.  ”The challenges must be met. The order matters not to us only that you prove yourself worthy.”  At mention of the others there is a glimmer of a smile,  “A wise question. The bull headed beast went South to seek Kranthos. The rest North to the Rod king. Although all looked pained and weary. If you seek rest the glade here offers shelter, none of the beasts of Tilagos will bother you here.”  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina listens to the interplay and then nods respectfully as the fey seem to grow thinner fading like mist as they leave the four heroes in the grassy meadow. She looks at the obsidian ring nearby,   “This one seems the same as the other one. We can leave if we want, but they said it would be safe to camp here. I’d we wait here and have a rest maybe Merrick will join us once more?”   It’s more hope than belief in her voice though.

Putting her pack down she starts to assemble her small tent and bedroll and looks to the others.   “We should rest whilst we can. I suspect tomorrow will be harrowing, particularly if we meet Darl Quethos and his followers. Shall we head North to confront him directly or south to the lone Minotaur.”  
 OOC

Everyone can rest and recharge spells abilities wtc…

 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  123 / 125 +18 temp
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +8 shield = AC 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Sanctified spell  (1d4)[ 3 ]  Str
Lesser restore wand as needed  (3d4)[ 4 ][ 1 ][ 1 ](6) 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)



Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
Stance: Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Active] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan was ready to move on, but looking at his companions, it was obvious they needed a rest.  Back in the Kush, he knew better than to linger in dangerous areas, but this one was supposed to be safe.  Better to let them gather their strength for the coming day.  It sounded like quite a few battle's lay in their future.

Sighing, Lan nodded curtly.   "Guess we rest.  But I'd rather catch these gits unawares.  Tomorrow, let's take one of them out.  I'm okay with going after the leader or the bull ... but maybe we pick off the minotaur first and hope the leader's group takes some casualties?" 

 
  OOC : Any recommendations on ranger spells?  Will we get heroes feat again?  What about our mass resist energeries, or mass fly ... I certainly liked those :)

 Effects : embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, deeper darkvision
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+22, 1d6+2 / +23, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
RCgothic
"We'll be able to move faster if we rest and prepare some travel spells," I suggest. "In the morning I can cast Wind Walk, which should allow us to overtake the minotaur and maybe take him out first. I don't think they know yet that we're pursuing them..."
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan grunted, nodding in deference to Mirriana, heading towards the glade while muttering,   "Yer th'boss ..."  

 
  OOC : Ready to go ...

 Effects : embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling; deeper Darkvision (90’, 2 hour); Mass Resist Energy (Fire and Acid, 30 ER, 140 minutes); Mass Fly (14 min)  
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, deeper darkvision
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+22, 1d6+2 / +23, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 136/155 AC: 28 (34 w/skirm)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
The night passes quietly. The soft winds on Tilagos warm and filled with the smells of the nearby forest. Sounds echo across the meadow where you have pitched your tents near the shining obsidian ring an in the woods and distant hills. Roars, grunts and bellows are carried on the wind and Zarina, Elkist and Lan (the ones with knowledge of the natural world) can only glance at each other imagining the size of the beasts associated the sounds. Only once is there a moment of concern as Lan on watch at one point spies the 4 elemental flags of one of the fey watchers in the nearby trees. The watcher offers the halfling a nod before turning and vanishing leaving Lan no idea how long he was  watching or what he watching for.

In the morning the foursome enjoy a feast of fruits and breads that have a hint of the divine around them as Mirriana calls forth a  heroes feast  to feed the party. After their food the party prepare their morning spells and other rituals praying over weapons and armour, blessing their bodies and soon enough the part are clad in warding abjurations, shimmering with holy power and garbed with weapons and armour of power. Mirriana raises her hands once more and all 4 of them feel their bodies shimmering and growing lighter before they form part of the wind and as strange cloud like figures. The clouds surround you all as you become mist like and take to the the air. The ground blurs as you ghost over the rolling hills towards the coastal fastness where you believe Kranthanos may lurk.

As you fly you see the occasional animal beneath you, all on this Isle seem blessed with size and power, even the stags looking as large as bull elephants. Eventually as hills give way to loose scree and moor and the crashing sea waves and crackling clouds of the storm over the water come into view you see on the top of the high rocky cliffs a grand ruined keep. Once well crafted even from a mike away you can see gaping holes and outer walls shattered and broken by a great force. It's a walled square with 4 cracked towers and stones like dead fingers rising from its core hinting at once having a central tower. But as you get closer you realise its sized for a creature that is titanic in nature, the doorway through the main wall a towering gateway some 50ft wide and 90ft tall and the walls spiking some 200ft into the air!

As you approach you can see 3 winged humanoid shapes orbiting the towers....


 OOC
Assuming you cast your morning spells and have a Heroes Feast.
Using Mirriana's Wind Walk it only takes you ~30 minutes to cover the ~30 miles down to the southern coast of the island.
I've assumed you are pausing to hang in the air some 2000ft away (about half a mile) whilst you consider how best to approach the keep


 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Hovering above the elder island Elkist takes a few moments to observe the area ahead.  "No sign of the minotaur. Maybe it has yet to make it's attempt for the Belt." 
 
 Spoiler: rolls 
Spot  (1d20+10)[ 21 ] 
Knowledge to ID  (1d20)[ 9 ] +X

Any ground cover on the approach to the ruined keep?
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  23,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  23,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
   +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+10 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Armour: moderate fortification (75% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:
 

 
 
  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina looks at Elkists's wispy form as they can all see that the way towards the ruined keep is devoid of any cover bar the bare blackened rocks. Gesturing down she slowly she approaches the ground and over the course of half a minute or so she melds back into her solid form. Staring at the keep she shudders as to all of them the apparent ruins look to be blasted by fire and storms. The ground within 200 yards of the blocky walls cratered and devoid of any plant life.

Hovering over the walls all of the party can see what appears to be 3 winged creatures, creatures with the legs of and wings of falcons and the upper body of savage feral looking woman armed with cruel looking recurved bows. The harpies swirl on the updraughts hovering ~150ft up in the skies. As you approach the gates of the keep Zarina can feel the tension rising, made worse as Lan can clearly make out a heavy set of cloven footprints heading towards the gate (although no sign of returning yet).

Zarina pauses some 400ft from the gates,   "I do not feel warmed by the keep or harpies Mir' "  she adds, a brief blessing or two following as red scales emerge from her skin and coat her body with a thin layer of pliable scaly protection and a dull blue green nimbus of protection. Protected somewhat Zarina nods towards the gate,   "Are we ready? Although I would pass caution. I have remembered where I recall the name of Kranthanos before. He was Titan of legend, who claimed to be a servant of Kord and was said to have been imprisoned by evil gods some fifteen centuries ago. he was a murderously insane menace who terrorized the Material Plane in his belief that his might gave him a divine right of rulership."  

She gives an involuntary shiver,   "We must be wary, but the Titans are being of great power and intellect, we may be able to negotiate if the Gods smile upon us.""  
 OOC
Anyone casting any spells before they advance into the keep?

 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Casting Dragonskin; Protection from evil


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125 +18 temp
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +2 deflect = AC 31
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 


Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin (+5 NA, Fire Resistance 20) 140 mins
Protection from Evil (+2 Delection AC, blocks mind control) 28 mins

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan peered at the ground, squinting up at the castle.  To Zarina's comments, he grunted noncommittally, then murmured,   "Gotta see what's up ahead, and see if the bull has engaged already.  Looks like he made it past the harpies ... "    Lan prepared to move ahead, ready to scout out whatever he could find.

 
  OOC : Thinking invis scouting up ahead, looking for signs of the minotaur, and if there are any signs of combat or traps and such along the way.  Want to use the flight for as long as possible.  Casting embrace the wild and deeper darkvision, once we're close and in scouting mode, he'll cast invisibility.

Anyone have mass resist energy?

 Effects : invisibility (7 min); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); wind walking (6 1/2 hrs?); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility , invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+22, 1d6+2 / +23, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155 AC: 28
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"I had hoped to catch the minotaur before he got here, he must have hustled through the night. Be quick Lan, we need to get the belt before the minotaur does," I say as I hunker down with the rest of the party.

"If the harpies spot us I can use my griffon to fight them in the air. This would be a lot easier if Merrick was still here."

 
 Spoiler 

Extended Heroes' Feast 24h
Extended Wind Walk 28h
Extended Superior Resistance 48h

Greater Magic Weapon
Magic Vestment x2
Celestial Brilliance

Detect Magic
Protection from Evil
 
DrK
As the trio of warrior women wait back from the keep the halfling wraps himself in shroud of magical invisibility and scurries forward quickly on his agile feet. Hopping from rock to rock and slipping between boulders he stays close to the ground easily evading the watching trio of harpies that are hovering overhead.

Like a ghost he creeps up to the gateway and peers through, still invisible he can easily look around the massive doors. A smell of ozone lingers nearby and fresh craters seem to dot the ground. Peering into the walled square Lan can see it’s an empty shell, he can also make out a faint line of runes around the rim of the gate spelling “Keep of the Shackled Conquerer”

The weathered walls of the keep are torn and ragged. They appear to have been battered down on more than one occasion, their chipped stone blocks rebuilt haphazardly into makeshift structures with little integrity. Four crumbling towers overlook the outer courtyard. The north easterly one with a mass of twigs, branches and ripped cloths and blankets forming a nest of sorts with the wall streaked with harpy leavings.  The archway providing entrance into the compound looms empty, its iron portcullis now nothing more than a heap of twisted black metal lying on the ground nearby. In one corner of the ruin are makeshift cages, seemingly made of a strange iron and crystalline material containing two of the massive four armed girallons that you had seen on your flight. The gargantuan monkeys cramped and filthy with muck matted fur trapped in the cages. A their cage holds two humanoids, one an old man in battered full plate, the other a thin lean lookimg man in baggy desert robes, both bear signs of recent wounds.

At the far end of the keep is a mighty throne of twisted metal and stone, the source of which appears to ace been the walls themselves and then beaten into the correct state. Sitting atop the throne is a figure that dwarfs Lan by a hinge amount. The towering majesty of Krathanos is impressive, the Titan being at least 30ft tall and emanating a dark menace seems to fit the lore that Titans are partially divine. His bearded face is lowered as he appears deep in thought. Garbed in heavy black metal greaves and vambraces his belt is wrapped with a thick golden belt. By his right arm rest is a colossal hammer the size of a small cart whilst in his other hand he clutches the decapitated head of a Minotaur. The rest of the body beaten into bloody pulp nearby along with a pair backpacks and some wands and other items (presumably from the prisoners judging by the size).  The Titan looks up, not seeing Lan but addressing the head, his voice a deep low rumble as he speaks archaic giant   ”You irked me bull. I warned you I did not like beasts where head and body do not match. My belt is mine.”   with that he drops the head and leans back in tye throne apparently watching the trio of spiralling harpies ignoring the howling of the Girallions.
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "I'd say....a four."   Donal says to the Titan, continuing their one-sided conversation of Donal's review of their imprisonment.   "Now that's a four out ten, mind you, not four out five."   Donal holds up four fingers and wiggles them to help the Titan count.   "I wouldn't say that I'm a connoisseur of prison cells but I have suffered that misfortune once or twice."   Donal winces and shifts his weight off his left side.   "I appreciate the open air for now, but what about when it rains? Would be nice then for a roof, is what I'm saying. A roof would greatly increase your prisons ranking."  
  "If you wanted -"   He pauses to wait for a break in the large monkeys howls.   "If you wanted to deliver your message to the deceased Bull I'd be happy to raise his spirit for questioning. It'll have to wait until the morning though, if you do. In the meantime, would you like to have a talk about ransom possibilities?"  
DrK
 Within the Keep 

Crouched by the door Lan sees the man in the cage speaking with the massive form of Krathanos. Even battered the caged man seems sure of himself as he critiques the sub par conditions he finds himself in. Watching Lan can see one of the harpies flutter down and alight on the arm of the throne, whispering to the Titan who laughs to himself in a dark and sinister manner. The harpy, its plumage white and black reminscent of a vulture hops down on its clawed feet and pulls off a strip from the dead minotaur, its humanoid face feral and mad. Before it flaps back  into the sky.

With a heavy creak of metal Kranthanos rises from his throne and looks to the cage where Donal and his newfound friend are.    "Visitors. More Visitors. Something stirs in the Material Realm, to have gone decades between  guests  and now 3 sets in as many days. A great change is coming. Maybe I can be freed of torment..."    he muses the last as, pausing to pick up the massive pony sized hammer, he strides to the gate of the keep. For Lan crouching down by the doorway Kranthanos is enormous,, 30ft tall, weight thousands of pounds and excuding power he towers above the hidden halfling gazing down across the rock as the trio of women, Zarina Elkist and Mirriana who all glow with holy light. The Titan squints at them, Lan hearing the whispered   "ANgels perhaps. Although of a type I do not recognise"   before he advances into the doorway, ignoring the howling of the massive girallions.

   "Greetings to the Keep of the Conquerer"    he shouts in a voice to rival thunder amd clear to Zarina, Elkist and Mirriana hundreds of feet away....
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Well there's no gain in hiding now," I say to Zarina and Elkist. "We've been spotted.  Divine Insight " I cast quickly, before striding out to meet the enormous titan with my sword sheathed. In the absence of a handy crag to stand on, I stop about 60ft away so that I don't have to crane my head too far to talk to the titan

"Hail, mighty one! We are here for the trial, but have no particular desire to fight. Can we talk for a bit first?"
Auranghzeb
Makavoy

The other prisioner kept making noise across the cages; worthless noise the titan ignored completely. Magnificent being indeed, Makavoy had to give him that. Brute force and a keen understanding of magic. But there was no time for awe. Makavoy didn’t want to nd as harpy food.

Makavoy thought to himself: “let’s take stock of our assets: my wand and staff are all the way over there. I have no materials, but I don’t need them for many of my spells. And I need to think what vestige should be more helpful”

He was thinking on this when the titan spoke about new visitors
DrK
Lan still concealed near the gates can only stare upwards at the massive creature standing some 15ft away from him filling the gateway as the three women approach. Mirriana calling out to Krathanos. Beside Mirriana Zarina leans in whispering to the priestess.   "Have a care Mirriana. From what I can recall from texts and our research this Titan is not a friendly one. He was once a servant of Kord himself until he revealed his true nature. He tried to dominate the lesser races and rule with fear and might, destroying those who would oppose him.  It was said he shattered the gates of Tir'Nathan and tore the eleven queen in half before the rest of the elves bowed down to him. It was after that and a dozen other atrocities that Kord and several other of the great Titans that served Kord stripped him of his abilities to travel between planes and cursed him to guard the Library here."   With that warning Zarina steps back, her gleaming armour shining as brightly as Elkist and Mirriana's giving an easy impression of a trio of angels come to speak with him.

Krathanos looks about with disdain.   "Little Angels with no wings. Why would you be worthy of my belt for the watcher's trials?"   , then in a more sinister voice, as he seems to pause deep in thought he gazes at you all.    "You come here garbed in magics, the power dripping from you. Have you the power to step between the Planes and release me from my cruel and unjust imprisonment? If you can do that task then I may consider the belt as a gift for you."   
 OOC: This would be a plansehift or a gate or some other way of shifting between the planes.  
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan was impressed, which was not an easy feat.  But he had also seen a mind flayer, demon lords, an angel, the dark apostle, a tri-god Avatar, an other-wordly spell weaver and several dragons.  The titan might be powerful, but any and all foes that had stood against Mirr and her band of Owlbears had fallen.  It gave the halfling a certain feeling of confidence that he might normally have lost at the sight of the large man.

Instead, he slipped forward to approach the cages and see how difficult it would be to pop them open.  Enemy of my enemy and all that ...

 
  OOC : If Lan could open the locks, he will, just to keep things interesting.
 Effects : invisibility (7 min); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); wind walking (6 1/2 hrs?); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 22 Touch/Flatfooted: 17/16 Move 30' Initiative +7
F +16 R +21 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +22 Tumble +36 D Device +22
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility , invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+2 / +24, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+22, 1d6+2 / +23, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155 AC: 28
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
 Within the Keep 

With the Titan distracted and stood in/by the doorway Lan creeps past like a mouse past a hawk and the scurries into the ramshackle keep walls. To the right is the throne, surrounding the throne as he skirts that way is a series of massive sacks filled with all manner of bits of bone and horn along with metallic goblets and plates, weapons and other magical looking items. A pair of backpacks, a sword, shield and staff amongst others look recent and the dead Minotaur wears bronzed armour and a massive spiked hammer dumped near nearby its body. However with a harpy perched on the arm of the throne moving the items seems unwise.

Skirting the other way to the far end he passes the two gargantuan girallions cramped in the cages who howl in rage as they smell Lan going past though all and sundry ignore the rage filled shrieking of the primates. Reaching the cage with two prisoners it looks like they have been incarcerated only recently and to Lan’s surprise he can see that all the cages have large draw bars on the roof (out of reach of tye occupants) that pull back the pins, the doors secured by the 50-60 lb weight of the pin should he clamber atop the cage and yank upon it.
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"I do have the power to release you," I admit, trying my best to remain unphased by the vast size difference between us. "And I don't approve of eternal sentences - it seems only fair to conduct a review every so often. But we came to Tilagos to gain the knowledge to a Ragnarok, not to unleash new ones ourselves along our way. This broken keep - it speaks of your rage and self pity. The gods will only put you back here if you mislead me and you cause trouble - and they'll probably make me do it too, after I'm done with Dragotha and Kyuss. So let's be plain: If I release you what are your intentions?"
Auranghzeb
 Makavoy 

Makavoy's mind rushed through the opportunities opened by the newcomers. He focused his sand shaping powers to create a rudimentary tool to draw Haures' seal on the floor. He just wanted the newcomers to speak more and give buy him some time... he just needed a minute.


 
 Spoiler: OoC 

Ok, so I'm assuming a 27 Bind check and a a minute to draw the sign, but I'll make a rushed binding attempt at -10 so I'll probably spend the next 24hr talking to myself...

Roll vs DC 25  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
 
DrK
  In the Keep  

As Lan watches the two men in the cage where the narrow bars prevent escape and the heavy pins are just physically out of reach he see's the man in the desert robes drawing in the dust with a stick

As he watches a strange ghostly tiger stalksout of thin air, but his appearance rapidly changes  to that of a handsome and well-dressed middle-aged man  who appears alive and healthy. A moment later, that form decays before his summoner’s eyes, rotting into a zombielike  state, then fading into ghostly incorporeality and changing again, this time into a skeletal tiger wearing a shining  crown and purple robe. This  tiger form soon  loses its crown and robe but gains ghostly  flesh, becoming a ghostly tiger to begin the cycle of change all over again.  The man breathes in deeply and seems to converse with the tiger before it seems to flow into him! Leaving Lan wondering what possibly was going on.



  Outside the Keep  

The titan's hand twitches around the handle of the massive gleaming metallic hammer.   "You seek the wyrm Dragotha... you seek death stupid child"   the Titan barks at you. It advances a little closer, peering down at the 3 women from ~40ft away.   "You will release me or I will destroy you. I am a god, a god amongst your tiny creatures"    he angrily babbles for a moment, near frothing at his mouth.  After a few moments, a few moments in which Zarina clutches Mirriana's shoulder in alarm. The massive creature looks back down at them.   "You ask me what I would do. I woiuld retake my place in the world. I would stride into the Hall of the Valiant on the battlegrounds of Ysgard and rend my brothers asunder. I would raise monuments in my name, bring nations of you vermin to worship my name and cast down Kord the Brawler himself and be venerated by all who dwell on this pitiful orb..."   He ends the tirade screaming and waving his fist at the grey clouds skidding across the skies, then he looks down at Mirriana,    "Do not try my patience. You will release me from my chains or I shall tear you into strips and feed you to my pets."    To all 3 of the warrior women they can see the malevolent madness  in his eyes.
Auranghzeb
 Makavoy 

The ritual worked, at least for the purpose of escaping, but Makavoy hated making bad pacts. His hands fliped around like those of a Rakshasa and his mind became impenetrable -except for the constant wispering from Haures itself-.

He didn't want to risk binding Tenebrous like this, wihtout his binding instruments and some time. Haures would have to sufice now. He used the powers granted to conjure an image of himself pacing around the cage, timing it to move at the same time he used one of the few spells he could cast without materials and become invisible.

He didn't know what to do about the newcomers if it all went down to violence. The titan was a formidable foe, but partnering with them may be the only option.



 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Using Haures' major image and then casting greater invisibility. Then he'll move to the gear.
 
DrK
As the Titan continues to rage and utter threats the three woman realise that either he was insane prior to his imprisonment or the 1500 years of near isolation has driven him so. The titan moves to heft his hammer as Mirriana's hair tingles and goosebumps rise on her arms as he begins to call forth magic. the harpies can sense it too and Lan's keen eyes spot feathered clawed hands reaching towards quivers and he relaises that there is trouble brewing!

 OOC

Based on Initiatve....
Mirriana, Lan and Elkist
"EVIL"
Zarina, Makavoy and Donal


Castle is ~240ft square. cages are too the left. THrone with gear is too right right. Door is in the middle.
Titan is ~20ft from the doorway ~40ft from Mirriana/Elkist and Zarina


 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"He's going to attack!" I shout a warning as I spot the Titan tense.
 (White Raven Tactics - Zarina) 

I begin a summoning spell, hoping to pad out our side with numbers. 
 Spoiler 

Swift: WRT
One round: Summon Monster 7
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina's entire body shakes for a moment at the violence of the titan's battle roar but her mind (aided by Mirrian's morning feast) is steeled against the fear she can feel inside her. At Mirriana's insistent words Zarina steps forward in front of Mirriana to shield the cleric whilst she summons aid. A brief focus and a warding shield springs up between her and the massive beast (though she isn't sure it will hold!) before a cast heavy cloak of spinning stars and galaxies grows over her back suffused with the glow from her luminous armour giving her a truly divine appearance.

Looking up at the mad titan holding her massive blade that looks like a toothpick relative to the beast she mutters a prayer to the lightning lord before shouting   "You shall not leave your prison mad one. You were sentenced justly and you shall receive justice for the crimes you committed upon the world."  
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


5ft step in front of Mirriana
Swift: Cast shield
Standard: Cast Starmantle cloak

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125 +18 temp
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +2 deflect + shield = AC 39
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 


Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin (+5 NA, Fire Resistance 20) 140 mins
Protection from Evil (+2 Delection AC, blocks mind control) 28 mins
Shield (+8 AC, 24 minutes)
Starmantle cloak: Immune to non-magic, Ref DC 15 for half damage vs magical  24/24 rounds

Elkist: Mass less vigour (fast healing 1)
Eklist: Protection from Energy (electricity) 110 remaining
Eklist: Interfaith blessing (+2 untyped to hit)
Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Steeling herself Elkist steps forward, orcish longspear gripped firmly in one hand. The peace and focus of battle come across her as she takes comfort from her battle-sisters alongside her.  "So be it."  She raises her symbol of Heironeous calling on the power of her god to turn the courtyard into a roiling chaos of cracked flagstones surging under the feet of the mighty titan.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
5ft step fwd. Adjacent to Zarina &amp; in front of Mirriana (in a "V"?)
 Standard:  Cast  impeding stones  on the 'kill zone'. Ref DC20 or prone titan. DC20 Ref or Balance each round or prone. -2 to attack, Conc DC16 to cast.
 Swift:  Law Devotion +5 AC
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  23,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  23,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
   +1 longspear     ( ,  )
   +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+10 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Armour: moderate fortification (75% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Interfaith Blessing +2 sacred attack
Protection from Energy (Lightning)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to AC (1 mins)

Round+ effects:

Mass Lesser Vigor ~6 rounds remain
Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
 

 
 
  
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

The tension in the room was palpable as the Titan and Mirrana exchanged comments.  But when Lan caught the faint scent of ozone and felt the tingle of pending arcane magic, he knew the time for diplomacy had passed, and only spilled blood would solve this challenge.  But with combat starting, the real questions wasn't whether the halfling could do anything to the titan - he was confident of his ability to take down even the largest of opponents.  No, the question was what as the best action he could take to help his companions.

A glance at the harpies told him they, too, felt the change, and they were just starting to move forward, anxious to visit pain and suffereing upon Lan's companions.  They might also attempt to unleash the four-armed beasts on them, which would simply complicate matters.  Smiling to himself, he called upon one of his various items, his vest, which sprang out wings enabling him to fly swiftly for a limited amout of time.  He held his action, waiting for the harpies to move.

 
  OOC : If the harpies fly towards the girallions, Lan will fly forward invisibly to w/in 30' and attack (point blank shot, imp skirmish, greater manyshot).  Here's hoping they are flat-footed to me :)

If they flew towards the ladies, Lan will fly to the top of the prisoner's cage and free them

 
 Spoiler: Attacks as required 
  Attack 1  - (1d20+23)[ 42 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 15 ] = 21 
  Attack 1  - (1d20+23)[ 37 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 26 
  Attack 1  - (1d20+23)[ 43 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 30 , if 29 confirms,  36 
Not sure the harpies are arcane users or elementals :(
 

 Effects : winged vest (60' flying, 5 rounds); Mass less vigour (Elkist - fast healing 1, 6 rounds); Protection from Energy (Elkist -  30 vs electricity, 110 min); Interfaith blessing (Elkist - +1 attack / skills [untyped], 6min?); invisibility (7 min); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); wind walking (6 1/2 hrs?); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 AC: 23 (29) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (24/23) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22 W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility , invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155 AC: 28
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 


*Updated AC based on skirmishing
DrK
Mayhem breaks out around the Keep of the Shackled Conquerer. Within the grounds of the keep two harpies swoop down towards the Girallion cages, one pinwheeling in the air, flapping in a cloud of feathers and blood as Lan appears from invisibility flying towards it with lethal javelins. It flaps to a standstill and fires a pair of arrows at Lan, each glittering with frost. The second harpy cackles and lands atop the cage of one of the girallions and pulls the pin, the cage door falling forwards with a ominous clang. The massive beast within raises its head, a savage gleam in its eyes as its slowly starts to stretch its 4 huge clawed hands... The third harp staying his above the ground flaps to within ~80ft of Lan and launches another pair or arrows at the deadly ranger.

 OOC
Harpy 1: Flap 60ft towards the cage before lan intercepts with Javelins
Many shot at Lan  (1d20+18)[ 24 ]  for 2 arrows  (1d8+4)[ 10 ] + (1d6)[ 1 ]  cold;  (1d8+4)[ 6 ] + (1d6)[ 2 ]  cold

Harpy 2: Drop down to the roof of the cage. Pull open the lever!

Harpy 3: Flap 60ft towards Lan (~60ft away now)
Many shot at Lan  (1d20+18)[ 32 ]  for 2 arrows  (1d8+4)[ 8 ] + (1d6)[ 1 ]  cold;  (1d8+4)[ 11 ] + (1d6)[ 4 ]  cold

Mega Girallion 1: Full round action, stretch, and get ready

 

Outside the castle walls the three woman form a defensive line, the Priestess chanting for more support as Zarina summons powerful abjurant protections an Elkist calls forth the very spirits of the earth itself. Like a wave the earth shudders under Krathanos's feet and sends the Titan crashing to the ground with massive shudder and a cry of rage. Slowly rising from his knee on the rippling earth Krathanos snarls and bellows in rage.   "You seek to bring me down to your insect like level. I am the storm of fury that shall destroy you!"   As he rises he casts out a hand and a crackling torrent of electricity flows outwards in a massive storm of violet lightning that crackles between the three women. Seeing the lack of effect on the women as its slams into Elkists's protections he bellows louder and reaches into the heavens and pulls down meteors of the very heavens towards the women, Mirriana holds aloft her hand, ring sparkling and the meteors veer alarmingly back towards the now horrified Titan who is engulfed in his own explosions!


 
Krathnos:
Move: Stand up (angrily)
Swift: Quickened chain lightning SPA
 *   vs Zarina  (20d6)[ 74 ]  electricity Ref DC23 for half, Mirriana and Elkist take half damage DC23 Ref for one quarter

 
 Spoiler: Redirected 
Standard: Meteor swarm on the ladies!
Ranged touch vs Mirriana  (1d20+22)[ 34 ]  Touch for  (2d6)[ 8 ]  bludgeon and  (6d6)[ 19 ]  Fire (no save for Mirriana if the meteor hits)  Reflex DC26 for Zarina and Elkist for half
Ranged touch vs Zarina  (1d20+22)[ 25 ]  Touch for  (2d6)[ 12 ]  bludgeon and  (6d6)[ 21 ]  Fire (no save for Zarina if the meteor hits)  Reflex DC26 for Elkist and Mirriana for half
Ranged touch vs Elkist  (1d20+22)[ 36 ]  Touch for  (2d6)[ 9 ]  bludgeon and  (6d6)[ 19 ]  Fire (no save for Elkist if the meteor hits)  Reflex DC26 for Zarina and Mirriana for half
Ranged touch vs  (1d3)[ 2 ]  for Z/M/E   (1d20+22)[ 40 ]  Touch for  (2d6)[ 3 ]  bludgeon and  (6d6)[ 10 ]  Fire (no save for target if the meteor hits)  Reflex DC26 for other 2 for half
 

 
 Donal  and  Makavoy  to go and then all he other players. Post in any order and I can sort it out.
Auranghzeb
Makavoy

Conflict was now unavoidable, and ironically, being caged was pretty safe. Particularly while invisible. Still, the booming attacks from the Titan were impressive and Makavoy's ring of spell battle rung with force at the Titan's powers.

Lan's apparition took Makavoy by surprise, right when he was about to start summon an ally. This was another opportunity, these Girallons were prisioners, they couldn't be really happy with these demonic harpies. Makavoy just had to probe that weakness.

He focused on Haures, exploiting the Vestige power to launch a mental assault on the Girallons and the Harpies. An ally like that could be a great deal of help.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Movement: Makavoy moves away from the Major Image of himself, and uses Vestige Metamagic to cast a Chained Charm Monster on the free Girallon and bouncing it to the other Girallon(s) and then the harpies within reach. The first Girallon's DC is 21  Due to Cloaked casting, and then the others have a base DC of 16. I imagine the harpies will get a +5 bonus on their saves, but they still need to roll. If the Girallon is charmed I'll mimic or communicate to attack the harpies and open our cage.
 


Status: Greater invisibility, 13 rounds, haures' powers are supressed so no mindblank this turn.
Chambers
 Donal 
  "Ransom seems to be off the table..."   Donal says to his quiet cellmate as the belligerents begin their fight.   "...but maybe escape is still an option. What do you think about...oh. Well, you're probably still here, even if I can't see you. Got an idea on getting this cage open?"  

He stands up and grips the bars with his gauntleted hands.   "If these were made by a giant then it might take a giant's strength to break them open."   Donal starts taking quick breaths as he hyperventilates himself and begins straining against the metal, trying to try the bars open. A growl builds in his chest that turns into a scream of pain and rage as the veins pop on his head from the effort.   "Open damn you, by Tempus blood I'll have your guts for garters you coward!"  
 
 Spoiler 
Donal will activate Mimic Class Feature to gain Barbarian Rage for 9 rounds (Str 28, Con 27). Now with the Strength of a Stone Giant he'll try to brute force his way out of the cage.

 Strength check   (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I know we're all well protected against the lightning, and my prescient sense allows me to plant my tower shield solidly between myself and Zarina, grounding the deadly arc harmlessly into the ground.

The meteor swarm though could be more of a problem. With a snap of my fingers the meteors change course and strike Krathanos instead!

Finally, my summoning spell completes and a huge earth elemental rears from the ground behind the mad titan and begins smashing into him with its fists!

Then with a short moment to catch my breath I say I prayer to Mystara requesting she grant me  Righteous Might !
 
 Spoiler 

Immediate action: ring of spellbattle redirect Meteor Swarm.

Earth Elemental Full Attack
 (1d20+20)[ 34 ]  damage  (2d10+10)[ 20 ] 
 (1d20+20)[ 38 ]  damage  (2d10+10)[ 22 ] 

Standard action: Cast Righteous Might
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

With the battle fully engaged, Lan was now up against three proficient archers.  The question was if he should continue to dance with them, or veil himself and play tricks.  Of course, if he did that, he might leave the harpies free to harass his companions.  Gritting his teeth against the pain, Lan cast a spell quickly, increasing his speed and then shifted his position aerially to the side before launching five javelins, targeting the hurt harpy first, then moving on to the next closest one.



 
  Round 2 : I think Harpy 1 and 2 are w/in 30'.  So cast swift haste, 'tumble' 10', full round attack (point blank shot, rapid shot, regular skirmish)

  Attack 1  - (1d20+25)[ 45 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 18 ] = 26  or  34  if 27 confirms
  Attack 2  - (1d20+20)[ 33 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 11 ] = 17 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+15)[ 20 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 15 ] = 21 
  Rapid Shot  - (1d20+25)[ 32 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 14 ] = 22 
  Haste  - (1d20+25)[ 34 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 16 ] = 23 
 Effects : swift haste (3 rounds, +1 AC/Ref/Attack, +30 move, extra attack w/full attack) / winged vest (60' flying, 4 rounds); Mass less vigour (Elkist - fast healing 1, 5 rounds); Protection from Energy (Elkist -  30 vs electricity, 110 min); Interfaith blessing (Elkist - +1 attack / skills [untyped], 6min?); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); wind walking (6 1/2 hrs?); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 72/95 AC: 23 (28) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (23/22) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22 (+23)W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility , invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155 AC: 28
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina smirks at the titan toppling to the ground and then glances back nodding to Mirriana with thanks as the meteors veer in the sky back towards the titan who emerges smoking and angry from the fire and brimstone. Lightning crackles around her flowing down her form into the ground as Elkist's protection wards them.   "Thank the gods"   she mutters as the magical onslaught fades. She casts a spell floating 15ft into the air, watching the stony ground ahead and then quickens the women around her as she  hastens  them.

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Swift (3 charges of Circlet): Cast quickened Haste
Standard: cast Fly
Move: Fly 15ft upwards

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125 +18 temp
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +2 deflect + shield = AC 39
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 



Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin (+5 NA, Fire Resistance 20) 140 mins
Protection from Evil (+2 Delection AC, blocks mind control) 28 mins
Shield (+8 AC, 24 minutes)
Starmantle cloak: Immune to non-magic, Ref DC 15 for half damage vs magical  24/24 rounds
Fly (14 minutes)
Haste (+1AC, Atk, Ref, +30ft move)  14/14

Elkist: Mass less vigour (fast healing 1)
Eklist: Protection from Energy (electricity) 38 / 110 used
Eklist: Interfaith blessing (+2 untyped to hit)
Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Watching with satisfaction as the great titan tumbled and struggled to raise itself, Elkist drew a shimmering cloud of moonlight about her, the moonlight arcing out in celestial bolts towards the flying opponents.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Stand ground in front of Mirriana
 Standard:  Cast  moon bolt  on an uncharmed harpy.
Also on a second harpy, or an uncharmed girallon, if within 15ft of initial target.
 (3d4)[ 4 ]  Strength damage. Fort DC23 for half.
Hoping this renders their bow unusable...
 Swift:  Law Devotion +5 Attack (I think I can stack multiple Law Devotion with different effects?)
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  23,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  23,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
   +1 longspear     ( ,  )
   +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+10 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Armour: moderate fortification (75% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Interfaith Blessing +2 sacred attack
Protection from Energy (Lightning)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to AC (1 mins)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to attack (1 mins)

Round+ effects (not included in stats):

Mass Lesser Vigor ~5 rounds remain
Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
Haste (Zarina): +1 attack, +1 dodge AC, +1 dodge Ref, +30ft enhance speed, extra attack
 

 
 
  
DrK
The chaos continues on both sides of the massive walls of the keep! Within the keep the harpies and Lan engage in a duel of arrows and javelins. The two harpies doing little to the nimble halfling who evades most of the frosty babred arrows whilst the other opens the 1st of the cages. In the cage Donal strains at the door but cannot budge it before Makavoy releases a powerful enchantment that flows over the Girallion who watches the image of Makavoy gesturing at the harpies and the cage.

Even as that happens Lan swirls in the air barrel rolling in a cloud of javelins. Two of them slamming into the wounded one sending it flapping dead to the ground. Its friend screeches in pain as a pair of javelins rips through its feathery wings. Its flaps over towards the second cage and rips open the lever as the second Girallion starts squeezing out, roaring and stomping with rage. Its friend rolls out in a simian manner like a massive 30ft tall gorilla out of the cage and looks at the door of its new friend's cage and with a convulsive heave rips the door off its hinges, howling deafeningly. The last harpy orbits above Lan and Makavoy and launches a flurry of arrows at both image and halfling

 
Monster in the keep
harpy 1 = dies to the javelins
harpy 2 = wounded by javelins, flaps to cage #2 and opens the gate
harpy 3 = starts shooting
vs Lan  (1d20+20)[ 28 ]  dam  (1d8+4)[ 9 ]  + [roll]1d6 cold[/roll]
vs Image  (1d20+20)[ 21 ]  dam  (1d8+4)[ 6 ]  + [roll]1d6 cold[/roll]  (Will save  (1d20)[ 6 ]  to see through illusion)
vs Lan  (1d20+15)[ 23 ]  dam  (1d8+4)[ 8 ]  + [roll]1d6 cold[/roll]
vs Image (or Lan if passes will save)  (1d20+10)[ 15 ]  dam  (1d8+4)[ 11 ]  + [roll]1d6 cold[/roll]

Girallion 1: moves out of cage and rips open Makavoy and Donal's cage. You are now free. Its friendly to Makavoy, hostile to Donal (just for consideration of AoO's etc...)
Girallion 2: Stands up and shouts out a lot but its door is open
 
 Outside the Keep 

The Titan roars in rage and frustration as its lightning seems to have no effect on these 3 puny mortal woman and its meteors are turns back upon it! The very earth that has tipped it ignobly to its knees seems to rise up and batter at the massive giant, although earthen blows connect its hard to see how much damage it has done. Even as that happens Mirriana seems to glow and grow in stature to ~11ft tall. Beside her Zarina seems to quicken her allies as she takes to the air trailing stars from her cloak. Elkist reaches out with a hand and launches a gleaming bolt of shining silver light at Krathanos who laughs at the weak magical effects

 Redircting Elkists's moonbolt as she can't see what happening inside the keep due to the walls
SR check  (1d20+11)[ 24 ]  and Fort save  (1d20)[ 11 ] 

AoO for below actions =  (1d20+20)[ 22 ]  dam  (2d10+10)[ 22 ] 
Krathanos vs impeding stones  (1d20)[ 8 ]  for start of Elkist's next turn
 

Krathanos raises slowly off the spiny and twisted ground letting the elemental rain blows upon him as he gazes at Mirriana with nothing but hate in his eyes.   "YOU SHALL NOT TOUCH THE MAGIC OF THE GODS PATHETIC CREATURE"   as he seeks to strip her magic's away even as he spins with the hammer and swings repeated massive hammer blows that would shatter the ground at the earth elemental.

 Krathanos
 Move : Stand up taking the above AoO
 Swift : Quickened targeted greater dispel vs Mirriana.
--&gt; Use these rolls as needed to strip away her layers of magic vs her DC ~25ish I think (1d20+20)[ 29 ]   (1d20+20)[ 34 ]   (1d20+20)[ 32 ]   (1d20+20)[ 31 ]   (1d20+20)[ 30 ]   (1d20+20)[ 29 ]   (1d20+20)[ 31 ]   (1d20+20)[ 32 ]   (1d20+20)[ 30 ] 
 Standard : Hit the elemental with some PA
 (1d20+32)[ 48 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 54 ]  (adamantine /magic / chaotic)

 
Auranghzeb
  Makavoy  

Smiling to himself, Makavoy has the major image burst out of the cage ducking arrows and pointing to the harpies and any other threat while weaving to the Girallon to protect him and or attack the harpies or the other Girallon if hostile.

Then, he makes a run to the stash of his things to get his spell's components back.
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

A swiftly muttered prayer to Mystara negates the Titan's assault against my defences. "Mystara is stronger than you!" I taunt the titan, however the hefty blow against the elemental concerns me. It did slightly less damage than it should, as nothing can bypass its resistance to damage, but I can see that if the titan really gets into a flurry we're going to be in trouble!

"If we engage him in close combat we're going to get flattened!" I warn my allies.

Taking out my bronze griffon statuette, I throw it on the ground where it becomes an actual griffon! I mount it and it carries me aloft, out of range of the Titan's hammer.

 
 Spoiler 

Immediate: Divine Defiance immediate action counterspell - using Greater Dispel Magic it succeeds automatically.

Standard: Activate figurine of wondrous power (bronze griffon).
Move: Mount griffon

Griffon:
Fly up and out of melee range.
 
RCgothic
The elemental continues to thump on the titan.

 
 Spoiler 
 Attack  (1d20+20)[ 23 ]   (2d10+10)[ 17 ] 
Attack  (1d20+20)[ 23 ]   (2d10+10)[ 17 ] 
 
Chambers
 Donal 

Keeping an eye on the semi-friendly large monkey, Donal abandons his attempts to force open the bars and opts for the open door. Scrambling over to his gear he heads straight for his large blade.

 
 Spoiler 
Move over to his gear, pick up his sword.

8 Rounds of Rage remain. Current Armor Class is 19 (unenchanted full plate, no shield, rage penalty).
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina flies forwards trailing stars before hovering at head height she fans out her hands a great sheet of raw silver fire screams from her tiny frame, the fire cascsading over the Titan...

Only for it to emerge from the huge cone of flames, smoke curling around it, seemingly completely unaffected. Zarina has time to glance round to Mirriana, a look of her concern before the Titan moves to act!
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Move: To 40ft from the Titan altitude 30ft (head height)
Swift: Ring mystic fire
Standard: Cone of fire
-- Spell resistance  (1d20+19)[ 24 ] 
-- Fire  (18d6)[ 64 ]    Reflex DC 21 for half


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125 +18 temp
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +2 deflect + shield = AC 39
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 





Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin (+5 NA, Fire Resistance 20) 140 mins
Protection from Evil (+2 Delection AC, blocks mind control) 28 mins
Shield (+8 AC, 24 minutes)
Starmantle cloak: Immune to non-magic, Ref DC 15 for half damage vs magical  24/24 rounds
Fly (14 minutes)
Haste (+1AC, Atk, Ref, +30ft move)  14/14

Elkist: Mass less vigour (fast healing 1)
Eklist: Protection from Energy (electricity) 38 / 110 used
Eklist: Interfaith blessing (+2 untyped to hit)
Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist grimly holds her spear at the ready, prepared for the huge mad giant should it advance on her and Zarina.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Stand ground in front of Zarina
 Full:  Readied set spear vs charge, smite evil
+1 longspear  (1d20+28)[ 33 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, +9 smite, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+47)[ 55 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +4 smite, +24 PA) x2 if set vs charge
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  23,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  23,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
   +1 longspear     ( ,  )
   +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+10 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Armour: moderate fortification (75% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Interfaith Blessing +2 sacred attack
Protection from Energy (Lightning)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to AC (1 mins)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to attack (1 mins)

Round+ effects (not included in stats):

Mass Lesser Vigor ~5 rounds remain
Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
Haste (Zarina): +1 attack, +1 dodge AC, +1 dodge Ref, +30ft enhance speed, extra attack
 

 
 
  
DrK
In the keep its a sad time for the harpies as blood and feathers rain down from the sky following Lan's deadly hail of javelins. Both of the harpies turn on the halfling closing in on him as they shake their longbows which transform into deadly looking long pointed barbed spears that are thrust at Lan's lithe flying form as they both swoop in. The 1st Girallion looks down at the image of Makavoy and sniffs it curiously before slowly lumbering towards the gate of the keep eying angrily the flapping harpies and Lan that are outside of its reach.

The second one comes barelling out of cage with Kong- like fury catching the hapless Donal, swinging a single massive claw at the Fighter as he scoops up his greatsword

 
 Spoiler: Harpies 


Move to flank Lan in 3-d
Swift: Morph longbows into Long spears
Standard: Stab Lan (power 2)
 (1d20+24)[ 38 ]  dam  (1d8+11)[ 12 ]  +  (1d6)[ 3 ]  cold
 (1d20+24)[ 26 ]  dam  (1d8+11)[ 12 ]  +  (1d6)[ 3 ]  cold
 

 
 Spoiler: Girallions 

#1: Moves to the gate of the keep
#2: Pursues Donal and takes a swing with its 20ft reach (PA4)
 (1d20+30)[ 46 ]  dam  (2d6+20)[ 28 ] 
 


Outside the keep Krathanos looks increasingly filled with rage as once again Mirriana (a mere mortal slip of a girl) turns aside his magics and soars into the air atop a Griffin. Zarina flies upwards as well releasing a great gout of fire that then fails to hurt Krathanos, who is protected from petty magic's by his near divine nature. Ignoring the elemental that smashes at his back to no avail the massive titan strides across the impeding stones towards Zarina, a look of rage on his face as more lightning crackles from his hands engulfing the three woman and the flying bronze griffin in a cascading storm of lightning. As he gets to within 20ft of Zarina he swings the massive hammer at the warrior mage, the hammer too large to be swallowed entirely by the starmantle cloak. As he does he comes near Elkist who lunges forward but has her spear skitter off the beast's armoured leg greaves, buts it enough to trip the huge titan who due to the impeding stones collapses to the ground under Zarina and beside Elkist to a string of curses spoken in a lnaguage so ancient and deific it causes to blood to leak from Zarina, Elkists and Mirrianas' ears such is the power of the god speech.

 
 Spoiler: Krathanos 


Swift chain lightning again  (20d6)[ 77 ]  at Zarina, Ref DC 23 for half. Mirriana and Elkist and Griffin take half, Ref DC 23 for a quarter (it'll chew through the Protection from energy and he'll get through eventually!)

Move slowly across the stones. ELemental gets an AoO:  (1d20+20)[ 40 ]  dam  (2d10+10)[ 26 ] 
- Reflex save on the Impeding stones at the end of the turn  (1d20)[ 1 ] 

Standard: hit Zarina with some PA  (1d20+29)[ 32 ]  dam  (4d6+43)[ 56 ] 
- her reflex save for half damage DC 15  (1d20+17)[ 34 ]  for starmantle cloak
 
Chambers
 Donal 
  "Damned brute!"   Donal curses as the oversized ape slashes at him. The hit is worth it though as he finally has a weapon in his hands. He turns back towards the girallion and takes a moment to assess his foe. Lightning erupts from his gloves and crackles along the length of his blade and blood drips from his cracked smile. He holds the hand and a half sword with both hands and points it at the girallion in a quick salute, then rushes towards it to meet it in melee.

 
 Spoiler 
Swift action: Activate Bracers of Lightning (add Shock to weapon for 1 round)
Full-Round Action: Charge

Attack  (1d20+29)[ 35 ] 
Damage  (1d10+21)[ 25 ]  and  (1d6)[ 5 ]  electricity

HP: 97 / 211
AC: 17 (inlcudes -2 from raging and -2 from charging)

Special Abilities: 7 rounds of Rage remain.
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy

Running to the gear without a plan had not been the best idea, this was all a distraction, every single second not fighting the titan was...


Makavoy took a tiny nail from his material's pouch and focused on the enraged Girallon and the harpies, he uttered a mental order

 Hold right there 
 
 Spoiler: OoC 


Move, if needed, to get my gear. Then cast hold monster on the Griallon engaged with Donald, Will save DC 22 or be held for 14 rounds If within range -30`, he will burn another use of Vestigial Metamagic to chain the spell to both harpies at Will DC 18.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan had dealt with one of the harpies, but two more continued to harry the wily halfling.  He activated his boots and flew to the left at an angle, keeping both harpies w/in 30', but moving swiftly himself.  At the apex of his soaring, he used his momentum to fling several more javelins at his enemies.   Once those force shafts impacted his foes, he rolled back again as his opponents closed in on him, striking at him with spears instead of bows.  shifted to the side, With the battle fully engaged, Lan was now up against three proficient archers.  The question was if he should continue to dance with them, or veil himself and play tricks.  Of course, if he did that, he might leave the harpies free to harass his companions.  Gritting his teeth against the pain, Lan cast a spell quickly, increasing his speed and then shifted his position aerially to the side before launching five javelins, targeting the hurt harpy first, then moving on to the next closest one.



 
  Round 3 : With haste still going, activating his horion walker and moving at least 20' while keeping harpies 2 and 3 w/in 30'.  Full round attack (point blank shot, rapid shot, improved skirmish, haste) vs harpies (hurt one first, uninjured one second, girallions third).

  Attack 1  - (1d20+26)[ 28 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 29 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+21)[ 23 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 10 ] = 16 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+16)[ 36 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 28 ] = 33  (if 23 confirms, then  39  damage)
  Rapid Shot  - (1d20+26)[ 29 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 18 ] = 24 
  Haste  - (1d20+26)[ 46 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 19 ] = 26  (if 39 confirms, then  34  damage)

 Round 4 : Acrobatics roll to make a 10' 'step' (or barrel roll) out of melee.  Attacks (full attack, PBS, RS, reg skirmish, haste) on whoever is left.  Focus is always the hurt one, then the other one.  If necessary, excess attacks can go on the girallions.
  Attack 1  - (1d20+26)[ 31 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 16 ] = 22 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+21)[ 33 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 7 ] = 14 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+16)[ 25 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 14 ] = 20 
  Rapid Shot  - (1d20+26)[ 45 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 12 ] = 19 
  Haste  - (1d20+26)[ 28 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (4d6)[ 17 ] = 25 
 Effects : swift haste (1 rounds, +1 AC/Ref/Attack, +30 move, extra attack w/full attack) / winged vest (60' flying, 2 rounds); Mass less vigour (Elkist - fast healing 1, 3 rounds); Protection from Energy (Elkist -  30 vs electricity, 110 min); Interfaith blessing (Elkist - +1 attack / skills [untyped], 6min?); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); wind walking (6 1/2 hrs?); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 47/95 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/24) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22 (+23) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility , invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155 AC: 28
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina lets out a shout of fear as the massive hammer swings towards her, one that turns into relief as the titan collapses on the rocky ground. Seeing her chance she whispers a prayer to the Lightning Lord and drops down towards the monster spiralling to avoid its hammer that swings up to greet her, ending hovering its chest some 15ft off the ground. Invoking the power of the wand attached to her blade the length of silvery metal becomes insubstantial as it swings through the beast's massive plates of armour with all the divine fury she can manage. As it contacts she releases the powerful and bizarre alchemicals recovered from Ilthane's lair as icy electrifed acid splashes of Krathanos who roars with rage. His roars though are drowned out as the ancient Aqaan sword crackles with power and a deafening boom sounds accompanied by a great blast of wind that sends a plume of dust and rocks scattering all around.
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Move: Tumble down (auto pass vs DC 15)
Swift: Wraith strike wand
Standard: Divine surge, PA for 6 the Prone titan (-4 to its AC)
  -  (1d20+18)[ 37 ]   dam  (1d12+23)[ 27 ]  +  (8d8)[ 26 ]  +  (3d6)[ 11 ]  acid +  (3d6)[ 9 ]  cold +  (1d6)[ 6 ]  elec
  - 21 Touch AC confirms for extra 28 damage and 7 sonic


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125 +18 temp
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +2 deflect + shield = AC 39
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 
Know Devotion +4

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin (+5 NA, Fire Resistance 20) 140 mins
Protection from Evil (+2 Delection AC, blocks mind control) 28 mins
Shield (+8 AC, 24 minutes)
Starmantle cloak: Immune to non-magic, Ref DC 15 for half damage vs magical  22/24 rounds
Fly (14 minutes)
Haste (+1AC, Atk, Ref, +30ft move)  12/14

Elkist: Mass less vigour (fast healing 1)
Eklist: Protection from Energy (electricity) 77 / 110 used
Eklist: Interfaith blessing (+2 untyped to hit)
Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist lunges as the hulk topples, striking at it several times.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Stand ground in front of Zarina
 Full:  Full attack + avenging strike + haste attack
+1 longspear  (1d20+28)[ 37 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, +9 avenging strike, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+52)[ 53 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +9 smite, +24 PA)
+1 longspear  (1d20+19)[ 21 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+43)[ 47 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +24 PA)
+1 longspear  (1d20+14)[ 15 ]  (+7 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+43)[ 48 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +24 PA)
+1 longspear  (1d20+9)[ 28 ]  (+2 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+43)[ 46 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +24 PA)

Gah! those rolls 😡

AoO (if needed): +1 longspear  (1d20+19)[ 31 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+43)[ 44 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +24 PA)
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  23,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  23,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
   +1 longspear     ( ,  )
   +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+10 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Armour: moderate fortification (75% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Interfaith Blessing +2 sacred attack
Protection from Energy (Lightning)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to AC (1 mins)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to attack (1 mins)

Round+ effects (not included in stats):

Mass Lesser Vigor ~5 rounds remain
Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
Haste (Zarina): +1 attack, +1 dodge AC, +1 dodge Ref, +30ft enhance speed, extra attack
 

 
 
  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Be careful!" I call to my friends as I prepare to start my own magical assault on the titan from outside his reach. With a prayer to Mystara I call down a rain of embers on the titan, even though it leaves me weakened.

The elemental glides effortlessly beneath the impeding stones to hammer on the titan again this time flanking with Zarina and Elkist.

 
 Spoiler 

Rain of Embers CL check Vs spell resistance:  (1d20+14)[ 27 ] 
Reflex DC 23 each turn for half of  (10d6)[ 38 ]  half fire half divine
Sacrifice  (1d2)[ 2 ]  STR drain

Elemental attack:  (1d20+22)[ 31 ]  damage  (2d10+10)[ 28 ] 
 
DrK
  Inside the Keep  

The girallion goes berserk! Donal runs forward sword cjopping at the massive enraged gorilla, hewing into its leg even as unseen nearby a voice calls out   Hold right there   however the giant monkey appears not to notice. The harpies flanking Lan grin and cackle cruelly as the withdraw their spears that drip red but their cackling soon ends. The first savage flurry see's a trio of javelins tear into the injred one before more javelins come flying fast from the small ranger 4 more streaking into the last harpy that plummets to the ground with a wet splat. The last javelin plunges down into the maddened Girallion that turns upwards howling and beating its chest at Lan!

The girallion goes mad thumping and tearing at Donal with its upper arms before picking up a pair of massive boulders as large as a horse and hurling them upwards at Lan with savage force as she feels like he is assailed by a siege weapon!

 
 Spoiler: Girallion 

Claws 1 +2 vs Donal
 (1d20+30)[ 36 ]  dam  (2d6+20)[ 27 ] 
 (1d20+30)[ 43 ]  dam  (2d6+20)[ 29 ] 

2 Thrown rocks at Lan
 (1d20+20)[ 34 ]  dam  (2d8+16)[ 27 ] 
 (1d20+20)[ 26 ]  dam  (2d8+16)[ 26 ] 
 


The second Girallion emerges from the gate of the keep beating its chest mightily as its see Krathanos, an elemental and three woman fighting. Fiery flowers rains from the sky and crackling lightning erupts and the girallion after one last beating of its chest moves 80 ft to the left seeming to start skirting the battle

 If the keep is to your north it moves 80ft east to go around the battle. Its scared of the elemental chaos 
  Outside the Keep  

As Krathanos falls two of the woman strike! Elkist steps forward with her longspear glowing with holy power and lunges outwards towards the prone Titan struggling to regain his footing.  Her first blow strikes true plunging deep into Krathnos's side, but the maddened godling bats her away for the follow up strikes. The elemental hammers down upon him, armour cracking under the force of the blow before with a furious blast of wind Zarina lands atop his chest driving her sword deep into hi. Even as that happens the sky turns red with fiery embers falling around them - yet not burning the women or the elemental but the Titan laughs off the rain. his skin glowing with dark power.    "I have you now"   he growls as with surprising alacrity he rolls to his feet faster than any could have thought (belt gleaming) hammer in hand. Zarina and Elkist can clearly see the murderous intent in his eyes as he starts swinging the hammer with murderous power!

 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Swift: Activate belt of battle for a move action
Full attack the ladies!
vs Zarina  (1d20+32)[ 48 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 44 ] 
vs Elkist (1d20+32)[ 34 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 52 ] 
vs Zarina  (1d20+27)[ 39 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 51 ] 
vs Elkist  (1d20+22)[ 34 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 45 ] 
vs Zarina  (1d20+17)[ 24 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 45 ] 


160
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy

This was increasingly frustrating...


Makavoy moved towards the keep entrance, keeping his distance from the girallon and looking for a good angle to blind him and deter him. He focused on his sandshaping abilities, summoning the desert sand and the storms of the sea of dust and unleash it on the girallon without hindering the flying javelin thrower and the enraged warrior below.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Move Action: Move towards the entrance of the keep 30' avoiding the Girallon (though i'm still invisible)
Standard: use a 5th level slot to cast a Shaped Haboob using 4 10' cubes of Haboob sand to appear on and around the girallon. basically a 40`x 10' box covering the girallon but above the level of Donal, so he can attack the huge creature but the creature can not see it unless crouching down. you need visual representation let me know.


Haboob  (5d4)[ 13 ]  DC 20 vs Reflex for half damage creatures inside the 40' X 10' have no sight.
 
Chambers
 Donal 
  Nothing for it now but to keep swinging!   Donal charges the blade of his bastard sword with electric power again and swings at the enraged monkey in front of him. Blood stains his clothing as old wounds are reopened and new ones formed from the girallions savage blows.

 
 Spoiler 
Swift action: Activate Bracers of Lightning (add Shock to weapon for 1 round)
Full Attack the Girallion

Attack  (1d20+27)[ 35 ] 
Damage  (1d10+21)[ 27 ]  and  (1d6)[ 2 ]  electricity damage

Attack  (1d20+22)[ 38 ] 
Damage  (1d10+21)[ 29 ]  and  (1d6)[ 1 ]  electricity damage

Attack  (1d20+17)[ 31 ] 
Damage  (1d10+21)[ 30 ]  and  (1d6)[ 4 ]  electricity damage

If someone comes to flank, add +2 to each attack roll and deal sneak attack damage.
Sneak Attack for first  (2d6)[ 3 ] 
Sneak Attack for second  (2d6)[ 8 ] 
Sneak Attack for third  (2d6)[ 7 ] 

HP:  51 / 211 
AC: 19 (inlcudes -2 from raging)

Special Abilities: 6 rounds of Rage remain.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan smiled grimly as the two harpies fell before the onslaught of his javelins.  The remaining one he had he threw into the back of one of the girallions.  However, he grunted in surprise when the creature swiftly picked up two nearby rocks and flung them at the hovering halfling.  One missed, but the other hit him squarely in the chest, driving the air from his lungs with a whoosh.  Hurting, he immediately started evaluating his exit options.  At his core, he was a survivor, and survivors didn't waste time with heroics, or final charges into the heart of the enemy.  Instead, he considered healing his wounds, then increasing altitude to stretch the distance between him and the massive creature.  Alternatively, he could cast invisibility upon himself to mask his presence, then heal from the shadows at his leisure.  And there was always the ultimate exit strategy - bolting for the open sky, these others be damned.  As always, his options were smart.  Prudent.  Safe.

That being said, he immediately threw out the last option.  Of course he wasn't going to leave his friends!  Nay ... he  might  leave these two ex-prisoners behind, because he owed them nothing, but he certainly wouldn't abandon his companions.  The first thought made sense, but it would delay re-engaging with the beast.  And even as he tried to withdraw, the creature might still be able to reach him with one of those small boulders.  The third option was an even safer option than the previous.  By veiling himself, he could heal and position himself for a surprising reveal ... but the entire effort would cost them time, seconds or minutes that his companions might not have to spare.

A roar from the other room echoed in the keep, with the sounds of thunder and booming explosions.  Frowning, his gaze darted from the direction of the other battle, then back to the barbarian fighting the four-armed beast alone as the other figure moved around inside the cage, doing something with his hands.  The other girallion had already headed towards Mirr, Elkist and Zarina.  When his sharp ears picked out the shouts and calls from the woman, his jaws hardened.  Whatever happened next, this was one time he wouldn't run.

Time would tell if he survived ...


 
  Round 5 : Presuming this girallion is hurt badly, Lan will move and attack, activating his horizon walker again (swift action to move at least 20' while keeping the G w/in 30'.  Full round attack (point blank shot, rapid shot, improved skirmish, haste).

  Attack 1  - (1d20+26)[ 46 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 28  or  35  if 41 confirms
  Attack 2  - (1d20+21)[ 36 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 17 ] = 25 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+16)[ 27 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 13 ] = 19 
  Rapid Shot  - (1d20+26)[ 35 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 29 
  Haste  - (1d20+26)[ 43 ] ,   Dam  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 28 
 Effects : swift haste (0 rounds, +1 AC/Ref/Attack, +30 move, extra attack w/full attack) / winged vest (60' flying, 1 round); Mass less vigour (Elkist - fast healing 1, 2 rounds); Protection from Energy (Elkist -  30 vs electricity, 110 min); Interfaith blessing (Elkist - +1 attack / skills [untyped], 6min?); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); wind walking (6 1/2 hrs?); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 21/95 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/24) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22 (+23) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility , invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155 AC: 28
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+22 / 2d8+8)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I'm annoyed at myself for having wasted my most best spell against potent defences, bit the titan has granted me a moment without having to defend, and I use it to search for the cracks in his guard. " Assay spell resistance! " I pray to Mystara, before following it up with a " Hammer of Righteousness !"

A hammer of force streaks out unerringly to strike the evildoer!

 
 Spoiler 
 Swift: Assay Spell Resistance (+10 to caster level checks to overcome spell resistance.

Hammer of Righteousness  (14d8)[ 62 ]  damage DC19 REF for half, spell resistance  (1d20+24)[ 32 ] 
Sacrifice  (1d3)[ 3 ]  STR damage
 
RCgothic
And the elemental continues its relentless attack
 (1d20+20)[ 25 ]  damage  (2d10+10)[ 22 ] 
 (1d20+20)[ 28 ]  damage  (2d10+10)[ 23 ] 
Edit:+2 for flanking not Inc
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina shudders as the hammer swings partially through her and the shimmering starmantle cloak but still leaves her ribs cracked by the impact. She looks up at the monster with disgust, floating just above Elkist battling beneath her and calls to Mirriana,   "We cannot retreat Constable. We are committed..."   Then igniting her blade with holy fire she slashes into the monstrous beast with fast savage flashing blows.

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Swift: Searing strike boost
Full attack w/ PA2
 (1d20+25)[ 41 ]  dam  (1d12+15)[ 22 ]  +  (3d6+9)[ 20 ]  Fire
 (1d20+25)[ 34 ]  dam  (1d12+15)[ 20 ]  +  (3d6+9)[ 20 ]  Fire
 (1d20+20)[ 38 ]  dam  (1d12+15)[ 20 ]  +  (3d6+9)[ 22 ]  Fire
 (1d20+15)[ 26 ]  dam  (1d12+15)[ 23 ]  +  (3d6+9)[ 20 ]  Fire



17 base, +1 haste, +1 heroes feast, +2 flank +4 K.Devotion, +2 interfaith, -2 PA
+5 base +6 PA, +4 K.Devoty

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  92 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +2 deflect + shield = AC 39
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 
Know Devotion +4

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin (+5 NA, Fire Resistance 20) 140 mins
Protection from Evil (+2 Delection AC, blocks mind control) 28 mins
Shield (+8 AC, 24 minutes)
Starmantle cloak: Immune to non-magic, Ref DC 15 for half damage vs magical  22/24 rounds
Fly (14 minutes)
Haste (+1AC, Atk, Ref, +30ft move)  12/14

Elkist: Mass less vigour (fast healing 1)
Eklist: Protection from Energy (electricity) 77 / 110 used
Eklist: Interfaith blessing (+2 untyped to hit)
Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
 [Ready] Searing strike (boost) 
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist goads the great titan, alternately prodding at it testing it's defences and then holdinger her arms and spear out wide as if daring it to attack the comparatively tiny warrior in front of it.

As it swings, wisps of spiritual energy swirl around her and her form suddenly collapses into the ground in a pillar of stardust.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Stand ground
 Readied Standard:  On it's first attack at Elkist: Spirit form -&gt; incorporeal. 50% miss.
Then also 5ft step straight down into earth (total cover) as part of same action.

Am hoping to cause it to waste it's first melee attack.
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  23,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  23,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
   +1 longspear     ( ,  )
   +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+10 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Armour: moderate fortification (75% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Interfaith Blessing +2 sacred attack
Protection from Energy (Lightning)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to AC (1 mins)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to attack (1 mins)

Round+ effects (not included in stats):

Mass Lesser Vigor ~X rounds remain
Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
Haste (Zarina): +1 attack, +1 dodge AC, +1 dodge Ref, +30ft enhance speed, extra attack
 

 
 
  
DrK
  In the Keep  

The massive 4 armed primal girallion roars and beats it chest as Donal slices and hacks at its legs doing massive damage to its thighs. Even as it reaches out to grasp him a spinning column of sandy air surrounds it blinding it temporarily. the distraction is just enough as a plethora of javelins fly from Lan's hand and impale the beast in the back of the neck, one finding a weak spot and punching through the skull into the brain. With a slow grinding the 30ft tall primate collapses by Donal in a great plume of dust and earth!

  Oustide the Keep  

The elemental and the two woman attack the Titan. Spears, swords and earthen fists pounding against the armoured hulk. Even as the elemental assails the creature a spinning hammer of pure force whistles past hurled by Mirriana. The hammer hitting with a massive concussive "bang". As it does so Zarina spins the Sword of Aqaa, the blade igniting before it slashes and slices through the thick black steel plate leaving two deep gashes on the creatures chest.

Krathanos roars with pain, reaching out a hand to crush Zarina's will but she holds onto her faith, black spots appearing around her eyes under the pressure before it relents. In rage the beast lays about with the hammer, great sweeps seeking to smash the woman to pulp even as it ignores the summoned mass of earth. Elkist vanishes from sight, becoming a ghostly shadow and plunging into the earth before it focuses on Zarina, the first blow smashing into her blade as the rest seek to smash the woman magus. The massive adamantine hammer smashes the sword of aqaa into a dozen pieces with crackle of lightning as it sets about the now unarmed Zarina beating her senseless, only the magic of the swirling stars keeping her from being turned into a bloodied paste.

 OOC
Swift: Quickened Hold person on Zarina DC 23 (pass in OOC thread, phew and avoids a savage coup de grae)
Full attack
Vs Elkist   (1d20+32)[ 50 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 54 ]    - negated by the ghostly step
Vs Zarina  SUNDER  (1d20+48)[ 66 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 52 ]  vs opposed check from Zarina  (1d20+29)[ 49 ] 
  ---- If the blow does more than 30 damage 😦 than Sundering cleave on Zarina
  ----- (1d20+32)[ 40 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 52 ] 
vs Zarina  (1d20+27)[ 39 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 47 ] 
vs Zarina  (1d20+22)[ 39 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 50 ] 
Vs Zarina  (1d20+17)[ 26 ]  dam  (4d6+37)[ 44 ] 
 
245
Auranghzeb
Makavoy


Speaking from his invisible position, Makavoy hurries the others.

 we need to act with haste, I just lost a full party against that brute. I we don’t fight together, we have no chances.  

He casts a spell that makes Donal, Lan, and himself faster and swifter. And then heads, invisible, to the edge of the keep door. He won’t take chances this time, he needs to outsmart the titan.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
 casting haste, moving up to the gate
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I guide my griffon down beside Zarina, reaching out to touch her and  Heal  her wounds.
"Hang in there Zarina! Blades can be reforged!" I encourage. "Use your father's sword and cut him down to size!"

The elemental continues its assault, smashing it's fists against the giant titan's legs and lower body.

 
 Spoiler 
Fly down to Zarina
Standard: Heal 150hp (rod of 7 parts)
Swift: White Raven Tactics, Zarina

Manoeuvres refresh:  (9d5)[ 4 ][ 3 ][ 3 ][ 4 ][ 1 ][ 1 ][ 3 ][ 2 ][ 3 ](24) 

Elemental full attack
 (1d20+22)[ 38 ]  Inc flanking  (2d10+10)[ 22 ] 
 (1d20+22)[ 42 ]  Inc flanking  (2d10+10)[ 17 ]  ( 35  if a 32 confirms)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

With Krathanos' back turned Elkist rises up behind him, a ghostly shimmering apparition. Even as Mirriana swoops down to support Zarina, Elkist strikes out in a whirling frenzy with her salvaged longspear, showing no mercy against the avatar of madness &amp; chaos.

 
 Spoiler: actions 

5ft step to 'rise up' &amp; flank
 Full:  Full attack + avenging strike + haste attack

All attacks incorporeal/ ghost touch =&gt; ignores armour &amp; natural armour.***

+1 longspear  (1d20+28)[ 33 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, +9 avenging strike, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage [roll]1d8+52[roll] [ 59 ] (+18 str, +1 weapon, +9 strike, +24 PA)
+1 longspear  (1d20+19)[ 20 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+43)[ 45 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +24 PA)
+1 longspear  (1d20+14)[ 34 ]  (+7 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+43)[ 51 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +24 PA)
crit? (1d20+14)[ 31 ] (+7 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage (1d8+43)[ 46 ] (+18 str, +1 weapon, +24 PA)
+1 longspear  (1d20+9)[ 25 ]  (+2 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+43)[ 48 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +24 PA)

Also +2 attack from flanking if at all possible.
***Edit: Actually on re-reading I have no idea if these are touch attacks or not...perhaps they're just normal attacks??? A bit of a mess.
Incorporeal - all attacks ignore armour &amp; natural armour
Spirit form - can't make corporeal attacks
Ghost touch - can attack corporeal creatures

Also spirit form doesn't specify whether your equipment turns incorporeal as well. On the basis it specifically says you lose your armour bonus I guess that means you keep your armour (&amp; other equipment).

AoO (if needed): +1 longspear  (1d20+19)[ 20 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +1 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast), +5 devotion, +1 haste, -12 PA, +2 interfaith) damage  (1d8+43)[ 51 ]  (+18 str, +1 weapon, +24 PA)

 40% critical misses. I surrender :-/ 
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  23,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  23,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +7 (+12 base, +4 str, +2 weapon, +1 morale (Heroes Feast)) (2d6+10 (+8 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Spiked (+1) Full Plate +2 of moderate fortification ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+10 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Gauntlets: +2 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Armour: moderate fortification (75% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Interfaith Blessing +2 sacred attack
Protection from Energy (Lightning)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to AC (1 mins)
Law devotion: +5 sacred to attack (1 mins)
Spirit form: incorporeal. 50% miss chance. Attacks ignore armour &amp; natural armour.

Round+ effects:

Mass Lesser Vigor ~X rounds remain
Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
Haste (Zarina): +1 attack, +1 dodge AC, +1 dodge Ref, +30ft enhance speed, extra attack
 

 
 
  
Chambers
 Donal Ren 

As the massive primate collapses before him some of his own fighting spark dies out as well. The temporary vitality from his anger evaporates and he's left leaning on his sword, struggling to get a full breath. Coughing blood he waves a hand in thanks for the martial and magical assist and speed hobbles over to the pile of gear.   Fighting a giant gorilla with just a sword is one thing. Fighting  that  would be suicide!  

Bleeding freely from his wounds he picks up his shield, embossed with an upright flaming sword, the holy symbol of Tempus. He straps it to his arm and stabs his sword at the sky.   "Heal my wounds, I'm not done fighting!"   He says, yelling at the sky. No answer comes but the bleeding starts to slow and bruises begin to fade.

 
 Spoiler 
Non-Action: End the barbarian rage.
Move Action: Move over to the gear pile.
Extra Move Action from Haste: Pick up and equip the Shield (his holy symbol)
Standard Action: Cast Greater Vigor on himself.


HP: 24 / 181
AC: 20

Conditions: Hasted (+1 attack, +1 armor class, +30ft speed, extra move action or attack), Fatigued (-2 Str, -2 Dex, can't charge or run), Greater Vigor (Fast Healing 4, 30 rounds)
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan grunted in success as the girallion fell.  He scanned for any visible threats.  From below, he heard someone call for speed, with the ensuing thrill of a hastening spell.  Glancing down, he saw a figure moving about as the rager ran to collect his gear.  Lan called to the ex-prisoners,  ”Gear up and hurry.  We need all the help we can get!” 

Concentrating, Lan tapped into his connection with the wilds and ancient powers of the Traveler.  Then he began casting a spell, one that slowly changed the small halfling warrior into something enormous by comparison.  Flying into the room, he saw the three women standing firm against the beast ... except Zarina, who looked ragged and carried the hilt of a broken blade.  Eyes narrowing in fury, Lan hit the ground thirty paces away with thud that shook the ground.  He roared in challenge, hoping to distract the Titan from his targets, or at least requiring the god-like being to consider the threat.

If he survived, he should probably let Zarina know how he felt.


 
  Round 6 : Cast aspect of the earth hunter (standard).  Fly to w/in 30' of the Titan (90' of movement available) and land (move).

 Effects : bullette form (70 min); haste (15 rounds, +1 AC/Ref/Attack, +30 move, extra attack w/full attack) / winged vest (60' flying, 0 round); Mass less vigour (Elkist - fast healing 1, 0 rounds); Protection from Energy (Elkist -  30 vs electricity, 110 min); Interfaith blessing (Elkist - +1 attack / skills [untyped], 6min?); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 22/95 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/24) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22 (+23) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility , invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4:  aspect of earth hunter ,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5, Travel devotion: 1/1

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 83/155 AC: 29 (36)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina shuddered under the impacts of the blows even as much of the force was absorbed in the aether hanging from the cloak and the sword exploded in her hands into shards of magical metal. Spitting blood she looked weakly about, a grin slightly as she saw the bulette rampaging forward knowing it was Lan seeking to save her. Thoughts became easier as she felt Mirriana land behind her and then warmth flooded through her as the  heal  from the rof of seven parts kicked in and Mirriana's command rocked in her mind.

Channelling her power her entire form seemed to lengthen and grow slightly, muscles bunched like chords and her features growing more feline before she ripped her father's sword free from her back. The blade seeming to pulse in her hand like an old friend as she flexed her fist, blood pooling around her grip as she focused her own blood on the attack
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Round 1:
Move: Draw father's fullblade
Swift: Blade of blood  (1d6)[ 5 ]  damage to her
Standard: cast bite of the weretiger

Round 2:
Burn Summon Fire elemental VI with arcane boost (+6 to hit, +6d10 damage)
Full attack

 (1d20+36)[ 54 ]  dam  (2d8+23)[ 32 ]  +  (3d6)[ 13 ]  blade of blood +  (6d10)[ 28 ]  arcane boost
 (1d20+30)[ 50 ]  dam  (2d8+23)[ 35 ] 
 (1d20+30)[ 42 ]  dam  (2d8+23)[ 35 ] 
 (1d20+30)[ 32 ]  dam  (2d8+23)[ 34 ] 


16 base, +1 haste, +1 heroes feast, +2 flank +4 K.Devotion, +2 interfaith, -2 PA, +6 BotW
+4 base +6 PA, +4 K.Devoty, +9 BotW

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125  -the blade of blood
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC +5 NatAC +2 deflect + shield +2 BotW +5 NA BotW = AC 46
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all, +1 ref. +2 ref (BoTW), +3 Fort
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 
Know Devotion +4

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin (+5 NA, Fire Resistance 20) 140 mins
Protection from Evil (+2 Delection AC, blocks mind control) 28 mins
Shield (+8 AC, 24 minutes)
Starmantle cloak: Immune to non-magic, Ref DC 15 for half damage vs magical  21/24 rounds
Fly (14 minutes)
Haste (+1AC, Atk, Ref, +30ft move)  11/14
Bite of the Weretiger (+12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 NA, Power attack, blidnfight  12/12

Elkist: Mass less vigour (fast healing 1)
Eklist: Protection from Energy (electricity) 77 / 110 used
Eklist: Interfaith blessing (+2 untyped to hit)
Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
 [Ready] Searing strike (boost) 
 
[/QUOTE]
DrK
  Oustide the Keep  

The battle with the Titan grows savage. The creature lashes out but Elkist forms into mist dropping into the earth as the hammer leaves a massive crater. then Zarina takes the brunt of the attacks, her body shaking like a leaf as its smashed left and right by the massive hammer, one of them smashing the ancient Sword of Aqqa into tiny fragments. Even as it lashes out reinforcements arrive, from the keep's door Makavoy runs to the gate and spies the Titan fighting 3 warrior woman all gleaming with various holy armours. Behind the beguiler Donal grabs up hi gear before with a thundererous crash a massive flying landshark lands near the titan bellowing a roar.

The distraction proves valuable as Mirriana plunges from the sky atop the griffin to heal Zarina with the rod of 7 parts and commands her to move. She pulls out her father's blade, magic pulsing throuygh her as becomes feline and savage looking with stripes over her already strange scales as she is joined by Elkist and the elemental all lashing out at the Titan that sheds blood as the blades, fists and spears strike home.

The titan, now grievously wounded bellows its rage.   "I WILL NOT BE BROUGHT LOW BY INSECTS SUCH AS YOU!"   he holds aloft his hands summoning a great power as a vast fist of a god slams down from the heavens through Zarina and Elkist with earth shattering force as its rests a hand upon his chest, blood oozing back into his body and wounds closing as he laughs madly

 
 OOC

standard: Cast definsively (auto pass) Crusing fist of spite  (20d6)[ 77 ]  to Zarina and Elkist  Reflex DC 26 for half
move: nothing
Swift: Quickened SPLA Heal for 150 hps healing
 


218
Auranghzeb
 MAKAVOY 

Makavoy has but a split second to take in the magnitude of the fight, right as the wounded Titan starts casting his spells, the Dust Digger makes an immediate decision.
Right before the Titan's spells take place Makavoy's ring tingle with anticipation. And Makavoy uses it to redirect the healing spell to the tiger-looking warrior.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Immediate action: Use ring of spellbattle to redirect the Heal to Either Zarina or Elkist, whomever needs it most  (1d20+24)[ 27 ] 
 


He then moves in to find an angle of attack on the opposite side of the Bullete, and still invisible, he conjures the desert sand to strike down the Titan. Then moves away swiftly to take cover in the cave.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Move to 30' close to the Titan. Then burn two 4th level spells to sculpt a Blast of Sand as a 10' cylinder exactly over the Titan.  (10d6)[ 38 ]  DC 21 for half Extra Move from Haste, take cover in the keep.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan-shark roared again as the beast called down a giant fist, attempting to smash his friends.  He sprinted forward, moving in a way to pincer the giant between himself and the others.  At the last minute, the giant creature leapt up with all four claws coming down to rake at the giants flank.

 
  Round 7 : Move 20' as a minimum (swift, w/Travel devotion); attack the titan while flanking w/his companions (full attack) - using improved skirmish, favored enemy
  Claw 1  - (1d20+26)[ 36 ] ,   Damage  - (2d8+13)[ 25 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 48 
  Claw 2  - (1d20+26)[ 35 ] ,   Damage  - (2d8+13)[ 21 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 20 ] = 41 
  Claw 3  - (1d20+26)[ 37 ] ,   Damage  - (2d8+13)[ 19 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 29 ] = 48 
  Claw 4  - (1d20+26)[ 45 ] ,   Damage  - (2d8+13)[ 19 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 31 ] = 50 
 Effects : travel devotion (10 rounds, swift action to move full speedbullette form (70 min); haste (14 rounds, +1 AC/Ref/Attack, +30 move, extra attack w/full attack) / winged vest (60' flying, 0 round); Protection from Energy (Elkist -  30 vs electricity, 110 min); Interfaith blessing (Elkist - +1 attack / skills [untyped], 6min?); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 22/95 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/24) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22 (+23) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility , invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4:  aspect of earth hunter ,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5, Travel devotion: 0/1

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 83/155 AC: 29 (36)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Be right behind you..."   Donal pauses for a moment while the halfling transforms into a landshark but just shakes his head and hustles over to join them, the wounds on body slowing healing.   "Thought I saw some lightning strikes over the walls, this'll help."   Donal holds out his shield and calls for a warding from the battle god. Sparks crackle around himself and his allies before fading from view. Still favoring his side and a weak leg, Donal keeps out of range of the mad Titan on his approach.

 
 Spoiler 
Move 60ft to the battle outside, staying outside the Titans expected reach.
Cast Mass Resist Energy (Electricity 30), targeting every ally he can. Everyone has to be within 30ft of each other so I'm not sure who will get it and who won't.

HP: 28 / 181
AC: 21

Conditions: Hasted (+1 attack, +1 armor class, +30ft speed, extra attack on full attack), Fatigued (-2 Str, -2 Dex, can't charge or run), Greater Vigor (Fast Healing 4, 29 rounds), Mass Resist Energy (Electricity 30)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

With reinforcements arriving, I focus my magic to literally hammer the faltering titan. The elemental keeps up it's assault, now surrounded by allies.

 
 Spoiler 

Convert a Dispel Magic to Hammer of Righteousness.
 (14d8)[ 60 ]  lethal damage
Spell resistance  (1d20+25)[ 35 ] 
Strength sacrifice[/roll]1d3[/roll]

Elemental
Slam  (1d20+22)[ 31 ]   (2d10+10)[ 25 ] 
Slam  (1d20+22)[ 30 ]   (2d10+10)[ 19 ] 
 
DrK
Zarina staggers under the impact of the vast fist of divine fury and then exhales as a wave of healing energy rushes through her as Makavoy holding aloft his ring steals the healing energy that would have rushed through the titan. Krathanos screams a rage, a rage so fierce that the woman beside him can feel the force of it in their bodies as his wounds do not close up. The Titan staggers more as Mirriana once more summons a gleaming hammer of force that once more smashes into its chest.

The finish comes even as it raises its hammer and the fist in the sky looks ready to drop on Zarina the bulette flies forward. A flurry of armoured teeth and claws as the land shark's massive bulk clashes with the Titan's and as Lan-Shark's claws dig in he claws his way up the exposed and battled damaged titan's back before with a sickening crunch the bulette clamps its jaws on his helmetless head and chomps down once... With a slow toppling creak the titan tumbles forward and (to Zarina's immediate relief) the fist in the sky unravels fading away.

The Titan lies dead and the 4 Champions of Greyhawk and Saviours of Diamond Lake can see the strange armoured warrior staggering free of the Keep's gate.
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina flinches and looks upwards at the fist in the sky and the battle raging titan and offers a prayer for her own survival before the hammer of gleaming force cracks into and then Lan leaps atop it to savage it with bestial fury. As it collapses she floats back down to the earth and drops to her knees surrounded by the shattered remains of the Sword of Aqaa. Looking up at the others she floats up and slowly flies towards Lan and pats him on the armoured beak that is his current face.   "My thanks. I would not have survived much more of the onslaught. He was a being of evil and destruction and the worlds are a better place with him gone."  

Then as she looks towards Donal (she can't see the invisible Sandshaper) and the fleeing giant girallion and looks back to Lan.   "Who is your new friend you have found?"  
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC + 8 shield +5 NatAC = 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin (+5 NA, Fire Resistance 20) 140 mins

Eklist: Protection from Energy (electricity) 77 / 110 used
Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Oh. That's great."   Donal says as the titan dies. He hobbles backwards until his back touches the wall and then just slides down to the ground with a crunch.   "Just need a few minutes to heal. Name's Donal Ren. Can call me Renny if you like."   He says in between wheezes.   "Don't know where the wizard is but he's probably still around."  

While his slow healing spell takes care of his broken body Donal enchants himself and his arms and armor with their usual wardings.   "I can call for more healing if someone needs it."   he offers to his rescuers.

 
 Spoiler 
The Greater Vigor has just under 3 minutes left and it will bring him to 144 / 181 HP. He's casting his daily buff spells on himself in the meantime: Greater Magic Weapon (sword), Magic Vestment (armor), Magic Vestment (shield), Longstrider (self), Superior Resistance (self).
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Excellently done Lan! And that was a very timely intervention as well, Donal," I say. "I'm Mirriana Conlan. You say there's a wizard with you? That is fortunate, the portal to this isle seems to have had a disagreement with ours. You're both welcome to join us? It appears you've already met Landahl Snowstider, our scout. These others are Zarina Brightblade and Elkist Talphrin, swordswomen like myself. If everyone gathers round I can heal our wounds. I don't think we want to do any more fighting today, and I can raise a better shelter than this crumbling ruin."

"Long story short, we're seeking to prevent the return of the evil demigod Kyuss who would subject the world to a wave of undeath carried by his vile worms. Along the way we've triumphed in the Champions' Games, slain black dragons and demons, and gained the favour of Allustan, Manzorian, and the Wind Dukes of legend. We were sent to this island by Lady Lashona to prevent knowledge of Kyuss's lieutenant Dragotha's phylactery falling into the hands of Darl Quethos and to recover that knowledge for ourselves, although frankly we don't trust Lashona either . That's why we need Krathanos' belt and to complete the other challenges. I presume you're aware?"

I heal myself with a charge from my wand of restoration, and anyone else who needs it using my remaining spell slots.

"I'm sorry about the sword of Aaqa, Zarina. If you gather the pieces we can patch it back together with a mending spell and we'll get it properly reforged when we have time."

 
 Spoiler 

Celestial Fortress from a lvl4 slot.
Restoration from my wand - last charge heals all ability drain and damage.
Healing from all other slots - Got about 3 mass cure light wounds (lvl 5), plus about 16 lower level slots
 
Auranghzeb
 Makavoy 

As the titan collapses under the bulette's pouncing attack, Makavoy approaches the group, still invisible, and detects magic on the titan's glorious corpse, he listens to the convenient exposition and introductions and then, while dismissing his own invisibility spell, he says.

  The name is Makavoy.   

As he appears next to them in all his royal aspect. resting his raksasha shaped hands on the the staff of the desert muskrat.

  But I'm no wizard. I'm a mere Beguiler, and a proud member of the Dust Diggers of Suel. You really light a candle over the purpose of my presence here, I came with some ill-fated companions under mandate of my order without much knowledge of why. If Kyuss is involved, this is deeper than I thought.   
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Spitting out the titan's life-blood, Lan-shark nodded once to his companions, the moved to sniff at the dead titan, looking for signs of anything that might be of use.  For now, he stayed in his form, since he would not be able to return to it until he rested again.

 
  OOC : Whew!  Guess Lan will search around for a bit.  I've got 70 min, just in case we run into something else.
  Search  - (1d20+20)[ 36 ] 
  Spot  - (1d20+21)[ 35 ] 
  Listen  - (1d20+21)[ 26 ] 
 Effects : travel devotion (10 rounds, swift action to move full speedbullette form (70 min); haste (14 rounds, +1 AC/Ref/Attack, +30 move, extra attack w/full attack) / winged vest (60' flying, 0 round); Protection from Energy (Elkist -  30 vs electricity, 110 min); Interfaith blessing (Elkist - +1 attack / skills [untyped], 6min?); embrace the wild (+2 Spot / Listen; gain low-light vision; gain 30' blindsight; 70min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack, immune poison/fear); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 22/95 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/24) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22 (+23) W +13
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes,  invisibility , invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4:  aspect of earth hunter ,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 0/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5, Travel devotion: 0/1

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 83/155 AC: 29 (36)
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
The "champions of the Arena" eye up the newcomers with some wariness as names and titles are exchanged. The massive land shark pads to the titan and makes sure its dead before scouring the ruins, dragging great bags of treasure and sacks of strange objects. Around the Titan's waist is both a golden belt of finest make studded with rubies, diamonds and all manner of valuables. the sacks contain gold, coins of long dead civilisations and from far away planes as well as more prosaic memento's of his time in captivity such a claws of a colossal Bulette, the head of a girallion and the feathers of a roc, the feathers each 6ft long suggesting the size of the bird.

 
 Spoiler: Loot 


Krathanos's Golden Belt

23000sp
12000gp
assorted gems ~6000 gp
Ivory elf maiden carved from a mammoth tusk studded with jewels (8000gp)
Severed Minotaur's head
Large Mithral Full plate of speed +3
Icy Burst greatsword +3
Belt of Giant strength +6

Adamantine Full Plate +5 (currently gargantuan sized)
Colossal adamantine warhammer +4 w/ Greater xtal of demolition (the construct smashing one)
 
Auranghzeb
MAKAVOY

Makavoy takes his this pause to heal with his wand and then binding another vestige, something more versatile than Haures. This time he carefully draws with his implements using his strange rakhshasa hands.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Binding Zceryll DC 25  (1d20+15)[ 26 ] 
 


Over the sign traced in the ground, you see the image of a beautiful woman surrounded by mirrors "yet something is off about her features. After a few seconds, a scream is carried on the air and the image of the woman changes into a hideous mass of writhing tentacles."
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina holding the remains of her blade nods to Mirriana.   My thanks Constable. I appreciate that. I hope it can be reforged.”   She still stays beside Lan, resting a hand on his massive land shark muscled flank, still seemingly unsure of these strangers.

  “we have retrieved one of the 4 things the Elemental guardians desired. Shall we head north to tye forest or the mountains to continue? It may be unwise to let Darl Quethos and his minions get too far ahead of us?”   she suggests gazing North and aware that their cloud forms of wind walking have some few hours left.

Looking at the bounty she looks at the greatsword and the heavy belt.   “would anyone mind if I took the belt that boost his power? It would save me needing as many spells to be effective in combat.”  
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC + 8 shield +5 NatAC = 37
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +16/11/6 (2d8+4, 19-20)
  MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 Sword Aqaa (thundering +2 sword) +17/12/7 (1d12+5(+1d6 vs undead) , 18-20
 3x Capsule: Int Acid, Int Cold, Spark), Wand Chamber (Heroics): Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead)   (+1d8 on Crit, + Hurricane Wind, + Synergy w/Lightning Sword) [  
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)
Dragonskin (+5 NA, Fire Resistance 20) 140 mins

Eklist: Protection from Energy (electricity) 77 / 110 used
Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Auranghzeb
 Makavoy 
  I have no use for any of the loot. And yes, I have already wasted a full day trapped in that cage. I'm in favor to speed up any search. Here's to hoping our interests align  
   Makavoy   
male LN Illumian (Valkrau) Beguiler/Binder/AM/SS,  Level  15,  Init  3,  HP  90/90,  Speed 
 AC  18,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  17,  Fort  12,  Ref  8,  Will  11,  Base Attack Bonus  7
   +2 Chainmail ,    +1 Deathward Buckler  (+6 Armor, +2 Shield, +1 Dex, -1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 12, Con 16, Int 23, Wis 10, Cha 14
 Condition  -Resistance to Cold, Electricity, Fire (5)
-Immune to Blindness and Dazzling
-Mind Blank (Haures' innaccessible mind)
-Bound to Zceryll
RCgothic
"I've spent most of my spells for the day. We have possession of the belt now, so we can't be beaten to the prize. I suggest we rest up here for today, and tomorrow we can wind walk again to our next target."
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Well met, all."   Donal says, breathing much more comfortably now that he's had a few minutes to rest.   "I'm familiar with some of those names."   He says to Mirriana.   "And seeing as I owe you a debt for the rescue and you all appear to be good-natured folk, I'll give you my sword arm."  
  "As for the booty, you have victor's first choice."   He eyes the dead titan's armor and one of the belts the bullete pulled from the keep while the others go over the spoils.   "If we are staying for the evening I wouldn't mind that either."   He stretches and winces.   "It'll be nice to sleep outside that damn cage."  

He taps a small token on a necklace, the symbol of Tempus.   "I've some small Art, though nothing like what was going on in this courtyard. Still, I may be able to help carry some of the work load if you let me know what we need."  
DrK
Standing in the ruins with the magical ornaments and belts and armour the party is happy when Mirriana concentrates and an elaborate fairytale-esque magical castle appears in the centre of the ruins as Mirriana summons a celestial fortress. THe party is able to settles down in the strange tardis like structre that seems larger on the inside than the outside and emanates a safe comforting glow an smells sweet and clean in stark contrast to the runs its been summoned in.

Zarina is happy to stand a watch,   "Donal.."    she asks the man as he works the magical armours or minotaur and Titan to reduce their size,   "What brought you here? Why were you seeking to to stop the Three Fold Triad and Kyuss?"   Then she smiles lookig at Lan,   "Although I'm please of more allies. Lan here has been hunting them for months, I am relatively recent to their company having met them in Greyhawk. They had done much before then in Diamond Lake and the border forts."  

---

In the morning as the part tuck into food nd cast their morning spells the armour weapons and belts stand ready waiting to be claimed and as Lan climbs the battlements he can see a distant plume of smoke to the north rising from the thick massive primal forest.

 
Shall we sort loot out in the discord?
Please select spells and cast any daily buffs in the IC

 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy

He enjoys a restful sleep in the magical fortress rising at dawn to bind to the green lady and Zceryll. He first calls fort and enhancement to his persuasive abilities.

 
 Spoiler: Binding rolls 
Casting Eagle's Splendor using two 1st level slots then binding the green lady (DC 17)  (1d20+14)[ 26 ]  Then Zceryl  (1d20+15)[ 16 ] 
 


Then he uses his staff to enhance his senses

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Using a 4th level spell and a 3rd level spell to activate the Staff using The Green Lady Arcane's Knack and casting Primal Senses and Primal Instincts
 



He then joins Lan in scouting ahead.


  Those that came with me to find this Titan lay scattered in these rocks. I'd come back to give them a proper burial so their souls rest in peace. But now, I'll follow you and your party.   
 
 Spoiler: EDIT 

EDIT: So I totally missed Zceryls roll and I get to be an arrogant idiot for the day.
 


He is about to leave it like that, when a sharp voice comes from within his mind.


 You don't need their help, you can take on anything 
  I'll do you the courtesy of helping you out, you don't seem very capable of taking on these challenges without my help.   
Chambers
 Donal 

Taking a break from his work Donal wipes the sweat from his face and sips some water.   "I don't suppose you'd believe me that I'm doing it because it needs to be done?"   He asks and then smiles.   "No, I'm no crusader. Most of my life I've been a mercenary."  

Out of his armor all can see that while he's still in good shape for a man his age there's no way for him to be as strong as he is without magical aid.   "Years back, I made a friend. Brother, really, I suppose. Doesn't happen often for folks in my line of work."   He starts working on the armor again to give his hands something to do.   "He was too idealistic for our job and left the company to go poke around buried ruins with some other fools looking for demons to slay or some such nonsense. Plenty of good fights available up here, ripe for the picking."  
  "Anyway. He went into the adventuring business and I stayed on in a respectable trade. We kept in touch, traded stories. Met his wife, was there for when he became a father."   He stops working and his eyes soften.   "He'd finally retired, kept trying to convince me to do the same. Last time I saw them, my niece was just strong enough to hold a sword."  
  "Some demon priest caught up with him, an enemy from his delving days that they all thought dead. It...slew them all. The worms, they were...."   He says and coughs for a minute, his face pale.   "I burned what was left and tracked down the priest. We had a ...long conversation... before I sent him to the Abyss."  
  "I've never been one for holy orders, but I swore an oath of vengeance to Tempus that I would kill every last worm priest and send their souls to hell. If that also be your aim...maybe we can work together."  
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    
 "Holy orders have their benefits,"  says Elkist,  "The proper ones of course. They help focus the mind. A framework for efficient execution. The teachings of Law and a sworn oath of vengeance can elicit harmony of purpose and action." 

She finishes polishing out the final dents in the silvery mithral pauldron and tightens the straps on her new armour. Her whole being radiates a soft holy glow in the dawn light as she settles into her usual routine of prayer and reflection.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Cast the usual daily buffs
Righteous Aura
Heart of Air
Heart of Earth
Primal Instinct
Shield Other on Mirriana

Other spells still to select.
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  24,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  24,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +19/ +14/ +9 (+12 base, +5 str, +2 weapon) (2d6+9 (+7 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+11 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:
 

 
 
  
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Once the decision was made to sleep for now and continue later, Lan morphed back into his normal form, giving a curt nod to the others.  Another magic user and a big warrior ... the universe seemed to have some sense of balance, given past members of their group.  Glancing at the assembled items in the pile he had collected, he waved it all away, then paused.   "That giant feather might be from the roc king.  I say we bring it with." 

 

The next day, Lan was up early and ready to go, having taken the last watch.  His spells and abilities were ready as ever and he wanted to get moving.  He glared at the wizard, but after a moment, he remembered Merrick and snorted.  Fate indeed.

Once the others were awake, he approached the group.   "The watchers said the others headed to the Roc, but that smoke tells me something's going on in the woods.  They may have two items already, or are getting the second one now.  Maybe they have three, since the nightmare was close.  Do we go after the nightmare, or try to intercept them at the Roc?  Or wait and set up an ambush here?  What to you think, Mirr?" 

 
  OOC : I'll keep the same spells, I guess.     Not sure what else to do.  I'm gonna presume we get healing overnight.  Casting Deeper Darkvision ... presume we'll get heroes feast again?

 Effects : deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 103/95 AC: 23 Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5, Travel devotion: 1/1

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina rises and leaves the shelter of the strange frotress. Joining Lan looking towards the forest and the smoke she offers the halfling a piece of dubious trail rations with a smile.   "The constable is no up, and I hope she will provide a feast once more. But this can do in a pinch."   Resting a had on Lan's shoulder she leans against him watching the forest and the thin plume,   "You know, I almost hope that Darl Quethos and his band have slain whatever was there. It would be nice to have our enemies fighting amongst ourselves. I can feel we will have to face the Master of the Hand of Vecna before we leave this place but I would tarry as long as possible before we are forced to do so."   

Looking at the massive body of near demi-god Titan she shudders.   "Facing Krathanos was like the battle against that spellweaver under the Spire. Both times I have felt myself within a hair's breath of death and whilst I value our cause I would like to grow old and fat, living a life of peace somewhere quiet."     She glances down at Lan,   "Maybe some company to unt some rabbits and cook them for me."  ..

As the other stir she shakes her head and looks to the small fairytale castle that Mirriana had summoned.   "To battle then"   she says with a sigh as she stnds apart summoning armour of shimmering light and motes of air and earth to fortify her body. A quick of the weapons and she nods to Mirriana.   "I am ready Constable."  
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Morning Spells
Greater Luminous Armour  (1d4)[ 3 ]  Str damage, L.Restore wand  (3d4)[ 2 ][ 2 ][ 3 ](7)  as needed
Superior Resistance
Heart of Air
Heart of earth


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Inactive] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Yesterday we moved quickly. It seems unlikely our foes could already have cleared three of the challenges, but I agree that smoke bears investigating. Let's eat quickly and then be off."

 
 Spoiler 

Spells:
Extended Heroes' Feast 24h
Extended Wind Walk 28h
Greater Magic Weapon 14h
Magic Vestment x2 14h

Extended Superior Resistance still has 24h left.
Celestial Brilliance still has 13d left.

At will/always on:
Detect Magic
Protection from Evil
 
DrK
A feast is had as Mirriana summons the food that fill those with brave thoughts and full bellies and before long the heroes shimmer into mostly glowing cloudlike forms and leap into the air and float northwards. As with the previous day the Island of Tilagos in the druidic demi plane is lush and filled with megafauna asyour float northwards you fly above several herds of massive dire elk and the like chewing on the grass, bulette holes are scattered across the plain looking like craters of monstrous size and twice huge eagles nearly as large as fable rocs flap over head ignoring your cloud like shapes.

As you cross the plain  and float above the forest its a rch and varied combination of all manner of tree, each one towering a hundred foot or more into the air. The canopy is heavy with nuts and seeds and you can see many small creatures in the trees and a tree shake occasionally as something massive must pass by underneath. The smoke comes from the heart of the woods, the trees turning darker as you get closer the centre of the forest. The thick canopy giving way to darker leaves or dead and bleached white branches jutting skywards.

As you circle closer towards the source of the smoke you can see a large clearing some 200ft in diameter, dry gravel, ashen white bones and dead leaf mulch hinting at a darker presence in the heart of the clearing. However as you float along a few hundred feet up you can see even from ~1000 ft away from the clearing that the massive tree of twisted dark wood that lay at the heart of the clearing is the source of the smoke. Crackling flames that flicker with unholy energies surround the tree and the plume of smoke is dark and looks dangerous to health. Its clear that whatever tree like creature the nightmare twist was its now dead, its branches and trunk now just turning into a funeral pyre... Scattered around the clearing in a loose semi-circle near them though are figures, even from such a distance they can been as  various sizes with 3 medium-ish humanoids, a fourth mounted atop a steed and the fifth a mass beast that must stand at least twice as tall as a regular human with deep red skin...

As you are all clouds at 1000ft and several hundred feet none of you have been spotted so far...
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Well I was expecting the Doomshroud to be some sort of plant," I comment to the others. "And if that was it then it looks like it's already dead. This looks like an opportunity to weaken our foes whilst they're tired. What's should be our plan of attack? It looks like we should plan for fire, unholy energies, and noxious vapors."
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina looks ahead, squinting slightly as she tries make out details on the figures but can't see clearly  (with her low Spot skill and low Wisdom I assume at this point she is chronically short sighted) . Looking at Mirriana she motions downwards to the ground, and airy   "I cannot cast spells in this form. Shall we land, we can enchant ourselves and then attack. Strike hard and strike fast the power of the Hand of Vecna are not to be overlooked."  

If the others agree she'll spiral down to the ground and slowly form back from mist form into her more solid form glowing slightly from the luminous armour.
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Cast Shield and Draonskin (red) on self
Cast mirror image  (1d4+5)[ 8 ]  images

Can offer Fly, resist energy, bull strength and heroics to people


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear



 Abilities 
[Inactive] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Chambers
 Donal 
  "I can ward us against the flames."   Donal says once he transforms from cloud back into human shape. He casts the mass ward as well as another protective spell for himself before nodding that he's ready to continue.

 
 Spoiler 
OOC: How many temp HP do we get from Heroes' Feast?

Cast Mass Resist Energy (Fire 30) for everyone and then Shield of Faith for himself.

 Donal 
HP 181/181 (DR 8/- [up to 50 damage per day, then DR 3/-])
Temp HP: 8
AC 38 (43 vs ranged attacks; Deflect Arrows 1/round)

F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Attack +31/+26/+21
Damage 1d10+20 +1d6 Fire +1d6 Electricity +2d6 Sneak Attack

Spells Active: Longstrider, Greater Magic Weapon, Magic Vestment, Superior Resistance, Mass Resist Energy (Fire 30), Shield of Faith
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy didn't like being a cloud, but it was convenient.

He came down to the ground with Zarina and the others.

  I'm better suited for aerial support and control. And I can remain unseen. And we need some sort of communication  


Makavoy linked the minds of the group with Rary's Telepathic bond.

Then he looked at the group with his mirror like eyes, and a voice from the void arrogantly said:

  When we are ready to approach I'll turn Some of you invisible, with me by your side, you are nigh invincible.    
 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Makavoy   
male LN Illumian (Valkrau) Beguiler/Binder/AM/SS,  Level  15,  Init  3,  HP  90/90,  Speed 
 AC  18,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  17,  Fort  12,  Ref  8,  Will  11,  Base Attack Bonus  7
   +2 Chainmail ,    +1 Deathward Buckler  (+6 Armor, +2 Shield, +1 Dex, -1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 12, Con 16, Int 23, Wis 10, Cha 14
 Condition  -Resistance to Cold, Electricity, Fire (5)
-Immune to Blindness and Dazzling
-Bound to The Green Lady (Turn undead 1/5 rounds, +2 charisma, Nerveskitter 1/5 rounds)
-Bound to Zceryll (Summon pseudonatural monster 1/5 rounds, pseudonatural creature (telepathy, mindsight, immunities)
-Primal Instincts, Primal Hunter (Uncanny dodge, +5 initiative)
-Mass Ward (thanks donald)
-Heroes Feast
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan's gaze remained fixed on the plume of smoke as Zarina spoke.  To her comments, he snorted, murmuring,   "Peace.  Hunh ... been so long since something  wasn't  tryin' t'kill me, not sure I know what peace is.  But it sounds nice.

Rabbits 'n all."  

Ducking his head down, he moved to take care of the bodies and burn them, least anyone call them back into service.

 

As they peered down at their competitors, Lan grunted,  "What should we expect from this lot?  Who do we concentrate on?  If this Dark Whats-it is as bad as you say, sounds like a match for all of us.  Maybe summon something, send it down to engage, get 'em to waste some spells.  Or see if that's real.  I don't trust these sneaky mage types." 

He glanced over at the newcomer before returning his gaze to Mirr.

 
  OOC : Any thoughts on a game plan to begin with?  Lan's good at an initial salvo, but I'd rather thin the ranks them spread the love and have a few heals mitigate our work.

 Effects : deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 103/95 AC: 23 Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5, Travel devotion: 1/1

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina looks at Lan and shakes her head,   "I'd expect Darl Quethos to be our equal or better in magical power, the efreeti is strong and the two shadowy ones I have no idea"   she adds as she rests a hand on Lan's shoulder.   "I have a faith in your skills. All of them."    and the halfling can feel some skill empowering him. Zarina glances through the trees,   "Do we fly or walk through the woods to the enemies?"  

Hefting the fullblade in her hand she swishes the air experimentally a few times before looking at the others,   "Are we ready?"  
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Cast Heroics (140 minutes) on Lan

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)
Elkist: Mass resist energy 30 (110 mins)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear

Shield 28 mins
Dragonskin Red (Fire 20, Nat arm +5) 140 mins
Mirror Image 8

 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy

Walked arrogantly to the others and suppressing for a moment the gifts of the green lady, he turned every one invisible.

He then moved towards the edge of the clearing.
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan felt a surge of emotion well up, followed by images of him slaying their enemies, while the others gazed up in adoration ... with one in particular.  He frowned for a moment, then pushed the thoughts aside as he grunted a thanks to Zarina, turning his focus on the gathered enemies below.    "We should hit them from all angles ... limit their area spells.  If one or two of them can't see though invisibility, they aren't as good as I thought.  I'll attack from above and hope they don't dispel this floating spell.  Are we focusing all fire on the leader, or thinning the heard, Mirr?"  

 
  OOC : So again, recommend focusing fire, just depends on who we want to engage first.  I gotta assume DQ won't let himself die here permanently, but we might drive him off.  If we're successful, the rest should be easier pickings.  Of course, if he's keeping us busy and they get to attack freely, that would suck.  Maybe something to distract him?

For the feat, Lan will take Improved Rapid Shot, if that's okay  @DrK  - from Complete Warrior, it removes rapid shot penalties.

For ingress to our targets:   Move Silently  - (1d20+23)[ 39 ] ,   Hide  - (1d20+23)[ 27 ] 
  Listen  - (1d20+19)[ 21 ] ,   Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 33 ] ,   Search  - (1d20+20)[ 34 ] 
 Effects : heroics (imp rapid shot, 140 min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 133/125 AC: 23 Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+24, 1d4+2 / +25, 1d4+3 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5, Travel devotion: 1/1

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
With a mixture of flight and invisibility the party creep through the trees, Lan flying and scouting ahead of them in the woods whilst the warrior trio, Donal and Mahakvoy follow up a little bit behind. Magic crackles as the party advance towards the central clearing where the smell of burning smoke and char drifts over the forest. Its Lan who reaches the edge of the tree line first and "crouches" in the air hovering behind a set of branches of a long dead tree to stare into the clearing beyond.

The clearing is large, probably some 200 feet across and in the centre is vast burning tree, clearly it was no normal tree with its blackened fleshy limb and trunks now aflame with a dark fire. A thin high pitched scream or squeal, an echo of a death scream seems to hang in the air and makes the hair on the back of Lan's arms and the back of his feet stand on end. Standing around the tree are a motley collection of evil and vile humanoids. In the centre of the clearing Darl Quethos stands watching the tree burn, his left hand withered and dead visible from underneath the long purple robes that he wears.

   
Standing some 30ft to his right are a pair of lithe shadowy figures that seem to flit and blur in the light as if the light is bending around them. Standing beside Darl is a towering figure of flame and rage, a towering 12ft tall muscled figure clutching a sword of fire who seems to be deferring to the figure.

   
The final creature of the "gang" is a terrifying looking figure of black armour and long spines as the deadly looking black partly demonic knight circles the tree on a black nightmare horse with flaming hooves as they trot through the thin air some 20ft above the ground.....

---

Inivisibly the party can get near to the edge of the tree line some ~100ft from Darl Quethos and the others, peering through the tree Lan crouches in a tree right on the edge some 30ft ahead of the warrior woman.. It does seem that you have the advantage.
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"We take out Quethos first. I'll buff up and send an elemental to ambush him. The invisibility will help. Stay close to me if you want physical protection in melee. Attack the moment the elemental emerges!"

I cast a string of spells in preparation, notably growing in size as I do so. Then when I'm done I direct the now invisible elemental against its target and advance into the clearing under cover of Invisibility to get within charge range in preparation.

 
 Spoiler 

Sign
Surge of Fortune
Summon Elemental VII
Holy Transformation
Righteous Might
Divine Power
Protection Devotion

Auras:
Iron Guard's Glare -4 to threatened enemies' attacks (10ft)
Holly Transformation: -2 to enemies' attacks and saves within 10ft.
Protection Devotion +5 sacred to AC within 30ft

Initiative:  (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
Manoeuvres:  (9d6)[ 3 ][ 4 ][ 6 ][ 5 ][ 2 ][ 1 ][ 6 ][ 1 ][ 1 ](29)  first 3 unique (ignoring 6s - only meant to roll d5)
Defensive Rebuke
Douse the flames
White raven tactics
 
Chambers
 Donal 

Nodding to Mirriana before the invisibility takes hold, Donal agrees to the battle plan. He casts a final spell of his own before they move into position and attack, staying sure to keep within the range of the holy knight's auras.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Barkskin.


Donal
HP 181/181 (DR 8/- [up to 50 damage per day, then DR 3/-])
Temp HP: 8
AC 48 (53 vs ranged attacks; Deflect Arrows 1/round)
Touch 21, Flat-footed 48

F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Attack +31/+26/+21
Damage 1d10+20 +1d6 Fire +1d6 Electricity +2d6 Sneak Attack

Spells Active: Longstrider, Greater Magic Weapon, Magic Vestment, Superior Resistance, Mass Resist Energy (Fire 30), Shield of Faith, Barkskin
Spells from Others: Heroes Feast (+1 morale attack), Protection Devotion aura (+5 sacred AC)
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy walks invisible communicating through the telepathic bond, he is not really a fighter, and Donald, Miriana, Elk seem much more ready to take and deal a beating. But he is the strategist, and under the influence of Zceryl, he feels compelled to order people around the battlefield.

First, we take down their air support...

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Casting Sandstorm as a 80' wide 40' high from the ground up centered on the hoovering knight trying to shape it it so it catches the knight and the two shadowy figures and excludes from Darl Quethos and the Balor***(metagaming guess) Full Hurricane Storm +75MPH wind in a tornado whirlwind shape. DC 26
 


Then we sap their initiative

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
I use Nerveskitter from the Green Lady's magic on myself when rolling initiative.
 


Makavoy remains outside the edge of trees.

 
 Spoiler: STATS 
   Makavoy   
male LN Illumian (Valkrau) Beguiler/Binder/AM/SS,  Level  15,  Init  8,  HP  90/90,  Speed 
 AC  18,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  17,  Fort  12,  Ref  8,  Will  11,  Base Attack Bonus  7
   +2 Chainmail ,    +1 Deathward Buckler  (+6 Armor, +2 Shield, +1 Dex, -1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 12, Con 16, Int 23, Wis 10, Cha 16
 Condition  -Resistance to Cold, Electricity, Fire (5)
-Immune to Blindness and Dazzling
-Bound to Green Lady (+2 charisma, Nerveskitter 1/5 rounds)
-Bound to Zceryll
-Primal Insticnts, Primal Hunter +5 initiative, Uncanny Dodge.
-Invisible 10 rounds
-Hasted 14 rounds
-Rary's Telepathic Bond 140 minutes
 
DrK
Mirriana, Elkist and Zarina with their new swordsman Donal form a tight wedge as they creep into the trees and pause at the edge of the treeline watching the party of evil adventurers. Lan scouts slightly ahead, as always the small halfling near invisible and silent in the treeline  with his natural woodsman skills. With Zceryll making his moves and demanour slightly imperious he moves swiftly to summon a vast storm that suddenly descends upon the enemies in a vast spinning vortex of biting sand and swirling dust!

The two lithe looking figures both react simultaneously throwing themselves out of the way of the finger or whirling sand that dropped down beside them. The flying figure in barbed armour atop the high flying nightmare utters something (though anything he said was immediately whipped away by the wind) before he and his flying mount are sucked up in the spout and onlya  flash of black armour or flames can be seen!

 OOC: sucked into funnel for  (1d10)[ 4 ]  rounds. Round 1 damage  (6d6)[ 19 ]   

By Darl himself an elemental leaps forward, the Priest shaking his head sadly as the apparation reaches towards him... But all of the enemies ready themesleves expecting chaos and war now, and all spoiling for a fight!!

  RCGothic  please roll your elemental's attacks 
 Round 1 Begin 

Makavoy, Lan, Mirriana,
ENEMIES
Zarina, Donal and Elkist
Auranghzeb
Makavoy


Bringing forth the power of Zceryl, Makavoy summons a pseudonatural creature to assist the fight.

A large winged tiger like creature of snow white fur materializes with a roar 40' inside the clearing, rising for a second and diving towards the red demonic figure and pounces him with claws and bite!

Then Makavoy moves deeper into the trees, hiding besides being invisible.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
STANDARD ACTION: Use Zceryl hability to summon monster V, pseudonatural Leskylor that charges the tall red figure 1 claw  (1d20+13)[ 21 ]  Second claw  (1D20+13)[ 15 ]  bite  (1D20+8)[ 26 ]  damage  claw 1  (1d6+6)[ 8 ]  claw 2  (1d6+6)[ 9 ]  bite  (2d6+3)[ 7 ] 
Move: Relocate to another quadrant of trees.

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
Pseudonatural Leskylor (NG, BoED)

Pseudonatural Leskylor Large Outsider (Extra planar, Good); CR 7; HD 6d10+18; hp 51; Init +4; Spd 40 ft., Fly 80 ft (average).; Space/Reach 10 ft./10 ft.; AC 19 (-1 size,  +10 natural), touch 9, flat-footed 19; Base Atk +6; Grp +16; Atk Claw +11 melee (1d6+6); Full Atk 2 claws +1 melee (1d6+6) and bite +6 melee (2d6+3); SA Frost Breath, improved grab, pounce, rake, spell-like abilities; SQ Darkvision 60 ft., immunity to cold, spell-like abilities, DR 5/magic, ER 5( Elecricity, Acid), SR 16 AL NG; SV Fort +8, Ref +5, Will +3; Str 22, Dex 11, Con 17, Int 15, Wis 13, Cha 14
Skills: Hide +2, Listen +7, Move Silently +6, Search +8, Spot +7, Swim +12
Feats: Flyby Attack, Improved Initiative, Touch of Golden Ice (Contact DC 14 Evil only, 1d6 Dex secondary 2d6 Dex)
Frost Breath (Sn): Cone-shaped burst of frost, 30ft long, 3/day, damage 3d6 Ref half DC16
Pounce (Ex): Full attack + 2 rakes on charge.

Rake (Ex): Attack bonus +11 melee, damage 1d8+3

Improved Grab (Ex): Hit with claw or bite to initiate grapple, if it succeeds can rake.

Spell-Like Abilities (Sp): 1/day Â– blessed sight*, cause fear (DC 12), cure moderate wounds (DC 13), eyes of the avoral, hold person (DC 13), obscuring mist, visions of heaven* Caster Level 6th, save Dcs are Wisdom Based. *spells in ch6 of BoED.

True Strike (Su): 1/day can cast True Strike on itself

Alternate Form (Su): As a standard action, a pseudonnatural creature can take the form of a grotesque, tentacled mass (or another appropriately gruesome form, as determined by the DM). Despite the alien appearance, itÂ’s abilities remain unchanged. Other creatures receive a -1 morale penalty on their attack rolls against a pseudonatural creature when it is in this alternate form.
 

 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

As the group made preparations, Lan called upon his ability to see through his opponents defenses and strike true.  With his eyes glowing blue (unseen to all currently), he waited for the call to arms.  When it came, he launched forward, tapping into his connection with the wilds to move swiftly.  Anyone who could perceive the halfling would have seen his arm flash swiftly, sending one, two, three, four, five glowing javelins at the dark priest's heart.  Time to see if this apostle of a lost god was as good as they feared.

 
  Round 0 : Cast find the gap (first shot each round is a touch attack)

 Round 1 : Activate travel devotion, move 60' to get w/in 30' of DQ (swift) and full attack the SOB (full)
  Attack 1 - Touch  - (1d20+26)[ 39 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 29 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+21)[ 29 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 22 ] = 29 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+16)[ 32 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 24 ] = 30 
  Rapid Shot  - (1d20+26)[ 41 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 16 ] = 23 
  Haste  - (1d20+26)[ 35 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 20 ] = 25 

More damage, if DQ turns out to be undead, an arcane spellcaster, a construct or elemental 🙂
 Effects : Find the gap (1st attack each round is vs touch AC, 6 rounds); Invisible (9 rounds), Haste (+1 att/AC/Ref, +30 move, +1 extra attack; 14 rounds); heroics (imp rapid shot, 140 min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); extended wind walk (28 hours);  +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 133/125 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/23) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image,  find the gap , find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5, Travel devotion: 1/1

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
RCgothic
With the element of surprise added to that of earth, the elemental attempts to grapple on to its intended target Darl Quethos.

 
 Spoiler 
Quethos gets an AoO Vs AC17 if not flat-footed in the surprise round.
Melee touch (1d20+20)[ 23 ] 
Grapple  (1d20+30)[ 47 ]  Vs ?
 


Regardless of whether it manages to get hold of him, the elemental then attempts to mash its target into paste!
 
 Spoiler 

Full attack two slams
 (1d20+20)[ 32 ] (-4 if grappling) (2d10+10)[ 23 ] 
 (1d20+20)[ 37 ] (-4 if grappling) (2d10+10)[ 18 ] 
 


Mirriana meanwhile charges in besides the elemental, solaran truesteel longsword flashing!

 
 Spoiler 

Charge Quethos
 (1d20+28)[ 43 ]   (2d6+10)[ 21 ]  (+3d6 if undead)
 
DrK
As the battle is joined, elementals, whirlwinds and magic starting to crackle across the grove there is a great roar as a strange multi-hued twisted looking tiger that sets upon the efreeti lord.

From behind Lan ghosts out on silent feet, a flurry of javelins streaking towards the fallen cleric of Vecna. A couple landing eliciting grunts of pain. Even as the javelins land home the earth elemental swoops up from the shallow soil but the man is quick to act, hand slapping out crackling with negative enegry!

 AoO:  (1d20+18)[ 19 ]  dam  (1d8+9)[ 12 ]  + 1 negative level (Fort DC 23 negates) 

Its initial attack launched as its drags Darl around the ring the cleric manages to slip out of its grip and takes a solid blow of an elemental fist. The elemental is joined moments later by Mirriana, racing forward silvery steely sword raised as she slaps down to chop through the priests's defences to land a telling blowI!

Darl's eyes blaze with rage as he is assailed by the young priestsess,  "You foolish girl, we could have shared the prue"    As he says that he releases a vast barrage of spells as a dome of repulsive power coats him to protect himself from attacks even he gestures at Mirriana to end her life with a single word!

 
Divine quickened slay living to hit vs Touch  (1d20+18)[ 24 ] 
 -- Fort DC 26 for DEAD or  (3d6+18)[ 32 ] 

5ft away from Mirriana and the elemental
Repulsion: Will DC 27 to get within 5ft of him
 

Beside him the red skinned efreet, looks in disgust the Leskor and takes a step back from it releasing a trio of sizzling rays of fire before lunging forward with a single massive chop of his blade that glows with fire.

 
5ft Away from the leskor
Quickened scorching ray
 (1d20+23)[ 33 ]  vs touch  (4d6)[ 15 ]  Fire
 (1d20+23)[ 36 ]  vs touch  (4d6)[ 15 ]  Fire
 (1d20+23)[ 29 ]  vs touch  (4d6)[ 15 ]  Fire

Elder Mountain Hammer
 (1d20+32)[ 41 ]  dam  (2d6+18)[ 30 ]  +  (2d6)[ 8 ]  Fire +  (5d6)[ 18 ]  and ignore DR

 

The twin shadowy monks roll free of the whirlwinds and as the javelins thud into their leader both look towards where Lan stands, their glowing eyes penetrating his invisibility!  One of them reaches out and touches the other, and seconds later Lan is stunned as they appear beside him! The second one rolling past him to flank him before releasing a savage flurry of blows against the small champion of good

 
Twin 1: dimension door to Lan
Twin 2: DC 40 to tumble 10ft step-  (1d20+32)[ 51 ] 
Swift: Assassin stance
 -- Unarmed flurry
 --  (1d20+26)[ 37 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 16 ] + [roll2d6[/roll] sneak
 --  (1d20+26)[ 37 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 17 ] + [roll2d6[/roll] sneak
 --  (1d20+26)[ 33 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 15 ] + [roll2d6[/roll] sneak
 --  (1d20+21)[ 24 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 19 ] + [roll2d6[/roll] sneak
 --  (1d20+16)[ 22 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 14 ] + [roll2d6[/roll] sneak

 

In the sky the flying Nazugon atop the flaming nightmare curses unheard in the pounding and swirling whirlwind. The massive (and it is literally huge) flaming shadowy horse beast slips between the walls of reality and appears above the battlefield some 80ft in the sky in the centre of the battlefield, a cloud of smoke streaming from its flaming hooves being drawn towards the tornado like a streamer. Its rider, black spiked armour looks about for the offending people and see Mahakavoy, the wizard feeling a tickle of evil brush his mind. A dark  "I can taste your thoughts mortal... they are delicious"  before a crackling bolt of black lightning slams down into the wizard hiding amidst the trees...

 Lightning bolt vs Mahakavoy DC 19 Ref for half  (10d6)[ 38 ]  damage, 50% unholy, 50% electricty.  
 
 Spoiler: HPs 

Efreeti       0
Twin 1
Twin 2
Nazugaon  9
Nighmare  9
Darl          66
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina pauses, torn watching as elementals, tigers and whirlwinds are summoned into existence and Mirriana moves to engage the horrific dark cleric. As a bolt of lightning crackles down from the sky she gasps as she spies the shadowy monks attacking the space she assumed where Lan was after having seen the javelins fly from there.   "Lan, I will help..."   she cries, feeling torn slightly at not supporting Mirriana, but she had learned how incredibly tough the Constable was and knew she would be okay briefly.


 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Know devotion  (1d20+27)[ 29 ]  (assume +3)
Swift: Blade weave (on a hit Will DC 17 or dzed)
Move: to Lan
Standard: Divine surge PA 2
 (1d20+21)[ 27 ]  dam  (2d8+13)[ 23 ]  +  (8d8)[ 44 ] 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  125 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 20, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)
Elkist: Mass resist energy 30 (110 mins)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear

Shield 28 mins
Dragonskin Red (Fire 20, Nat arm +5) 140 mins
Mirror Image 8
Haste 12 rounds


 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Auranghzeb
The bolt of lightning flies true through the line of trees and catches Makavoy straight in the back sending a terrible jolt of electricity through his body.

He turns around when he hears the voice in his head and his mirror-like eyes squint at the rider while taking out a small piece of iron from his component pouch.

 "So you can see me through my invisibility. Fine, I think is time for you to dismount." 

He focuses on the nightmarish mare and sends a mental order

 
 Hold  
 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Standard:
Cast Hold Monster on the Nightmare DC 22

Swift: Swift etherealness
Move: move around the circle to a position where I'm 60' away from Darl Quethos.
 


Then he vanished to etherealness and improved his position.

 
 Spoiler: Status 
   Makavoy   
male LN Illumian (Valkrau) Beguiler/Binder/AM/SS,  Level  15,  Init  8,  HP  67/90,  Speed 
 AC  18,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  17,  Fort  12,  Ref  8,  Will  11,  Base Attack Bonus  7
   +2 Chainmail ,    +1 Deathward Buckler  (+6 Armor, +2 Shield, +1 Dex, -1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 12, Con 16, Int 23, Wis 10, Cha 16
 Condition  -Resistance to Cold 15, Electricity 15, Fire (5)
-Invisible and Ethereal.
-Immune to Blindness and Dazzling
-Bound to Green Lady (+2 charisma, Nerveskitter 1/5 rounds)
-Bound to Zceryll
-Primal Insticnts, Primal Hunter +5 initiative, Uncanny Dodge.
-Invisible 9 rounds
-Hasted 13 rounds
-Rary's Telepathic Bond 140 minutes
 
Chambers
 Donal 
  "You got it, lady."   Donal knows how to take orders in a battle.   "She said you gotta go first."   He says to the cleric across the field, saluting him briefly with his electrified bastard sword before launching himself across the field at supernatural speed.

 
 Spoiler 
Swift Action: Activate Bracers of Lightning.
Full-Round Action: Charge Darl Quethos.

Will Save vs Repulsion  (1d20+20)[ 21 ]  vs DC 27

Attack  (1d20+33)[ 47 ] 
Damage  (1d10+30)[ 37 ] 
Fire Damage  (1d6)[ 1 ] 
Electricity damage  (1d6)[ 4 ] 

I don't think it's likely that he and Mirriana will be flanking Darl at this point but if they are, the attack gains +2 to the attack roll and  (2d6)[ 6 ]  Sneak Attack damage. I included the +10 damage for charging from Zarina's Leading the Charge stance in the damage roll.



Donal
HP 181/181 (DR 8/- [up to 50 damage per day, then DR 3/-])
Temp HP: 8
AC 48 (53 vs ranged attacks; Deflect Arrows 1/round)
Touch 21, Flat-footed 48

[All AC is -2 for one round due to charging]

F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Attack +31/+26/+21
Damage 1d10+20 +1d6 Fire +1d6 Electricity +2d6 Sneak Attack

Spells Active: Longstrider, Greater Magic Weapon, Magic Vestment, Superior Resistance, Mass Resist Energy (Fire 30), Shield of Faith, Barkskin
Spells from Others: Heroes Feast (+1 morale attack), Protection Devotion aura (+5 sacred AC)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    
 "I'm with you,"  says Elkist, coursing alongside Donal as the two of them surge forward to join Mirriana in her battle with the vile cleric.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
  Swift:  Cast Rhino's Rush (double damage on charge)
 Charge:  Lightning Sword  (1d20+22)[ 30 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast, +2 Charge, -4 PA) damage  (2d6+23)[ 30 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +8 PA) + electricity  (1d6)[ 5 ] 

Will save vs Repulsion  (1d20+21)[ 39 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  24,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  24,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +20/ +15/ +10 (+12 base, +5 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast) (2d6+9 (+7 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+11 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Mass Resist Energy/30 fire. (Donal)
Protection from Energy/ Acid)

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
 

 
 
  
RCgothic
"Never!" I cry to Darl Quethos's assertion we could share. Easily turning aside the his touch with my shield and completely unconcerned by his repulsion field, I press home my attack with a flurry of low attacks designed to push my foe off balance, or possibly hangstring him at the knees as a fortunate side effect

"Elkist press home!" I urge, spurring my companion to further action.

Meanwhile the elemental, unable to approach but still more than able to reach, slams mighty fists down on the lich.

 
 Spoiler 
Mirriana 5ft to stay with Darl and remain flanking with the elemental. Hasted Full attack:  (1d20+29)[ 44 ]  (2d6+10)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20+24)[ 29 ]  (2d6+10)[ 20 ] 
 (1d20+24)[ 27 ]  (2d6+10)[ 12 ] 
 (1d20+19)[ 22 ]  (2d6+10)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20+14)[ 18 ]  (2d6+10)[ 18 ] 

Iron Guard's Glare

White Raven Tactics, Elkist

Elemental Full Attack:
 (1d20+22)[ 27 ]  (2d10+10)[ 20 ] 
 (1d20+22)[ 25 ]  (2d10+10)[ 25 ] 
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist presses the attack, blade arcing gracefully around as she takes Mirriana's direction and focuses her determination on the evil cleric.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
 Smite evil
 Swift:  Law devotion +5 sacred attack
 Full:  Lightning Sword  (1d20+26)[ 37 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast, -12 PA, +9 smite, +5 law devotion) damage  (2d6+39)[ 47 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA, +4 smite) + electricity  (1d6)[ 6 ] 
Lightning Sword  (1d20+12)[ 24 ]  (+7 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast, -12 PA, +5 law devotion) damage  (2d6+35)[ 42 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) + electricity  (1d6)[ 4 ] 
Lightning Sword  (1d20+7)[ 24 ]  (+2 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast, -12 PA, +5 law devotion) damage  (2d6+35)[ 37 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) + electricity  (1d6)[ 3 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105 + 22 temp/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  24,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  24,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +20/ +15/ +10 (+12 base, +5 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast) (2d6+9 (+7 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+11 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Mass Resist Energy/30 fire. (Donal)
Protection from Energy/ Acid)

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Law devotion: +5 sacred to attack (1 mins)

Round+ effects:

Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
 

 
 
  
DrK
Its pandemonium on the battlefield as Mahkavoy, dodging through the lightning vanishes from sight but commands the flaming horse to "HOLD", a command that it ignores with it hooves flame and rage in its eyes. Over on the left flank the pair of tielfing shadowy monks engage Lan hitting the halfling with a flurry of sharp blows. Even as Lan retreats upwards into the sky Zarina moves to support, smashing into one of them with a single massive blow that near shears the enemy in half.  In the centre the elemental, Donal, Mirriana and Elkist all close on the shadowy cleric of Vecna. Blades flash and blood splashes outwards in a wide arc as Elkist and Mirriana's blade bite home even as Donal is rebuffed by the replusion field that leaves him unable to close on the dark cleric.

The dark knight rises his hand high, a shimmering lance of dark fire appearing in his hand before he plummets atop his flaming steed down the central scrum near the high priest, his lance aiming straight for the drow with her shimmering plate and glowing crackling weapons as the mount surrounds the party in a cloud fiery smoke obscuring vision all around

 Nightmare and rider charge Elkist

Dark Barbed Rider
- Free: Draw lance
- Swift: Activate Piercing Lance
- Charge vs Elkist  (1d20+24)[ 33 ]  Resolve vs TOUCH dam  (6d6+54)[ 72 ]  +  (2d6)[ 8 ]  unholy
- Free: FEAR AURA WIll save DC 21 (Mirriana, Donal, Elemental, Elkist) or frightened  (1d4)[ 3 ]  rounds

Nightmare: Free - 15ft clone of smoke over the scrum (Darl Q, Elemental, Elkist, Donal and Mirriana)
   -- DC 24 Fort save from everyone or -2 attack and dam for  (1d6)[ 2 ]  minutes. Plus Concealment for all (NO SAVE)
   -- Flaming hoof (PA4) vs Elkist  (1d20+24)[ 35 ]  dam  (2d6+17)[ 27 ]  +  (1d4)[ 3 ]  Fire

 

Seeing his master in trouble the hulking flaming efreeti ignores the flaming wreckage of the Lheyskor and runs past towards the massive fight in the centre of the room. As he runs he holds out his hand, a trio of fiery blasts stabbing towards Mirriana and Donal even as it reaches the fighter and spins around in a glittering spinning attack that attacks all of its foes with a beautiful mithral tornado.

 
Moves to the central fight (not sure if summoned Leshor is alive or night but would accept the AoO)
Swift: Scorching ray
   * vs Donal  (1d20+23)[ 37 ]  dam  (4d6)[ 14 ]      Smoke Miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 88 ] 
   * vs Mirriana  (1d20+23)[ 27 ]  dam  (4d6)[ 14 ]   Smoke Miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 67 ] 
   * vs Mirriana  (1d20+23)[ 25 ]  dam  (4d6)[ 15 ]   Smoke Miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 8 ] 
Standard: Mithral Tornado to attack Elkist, Mirriana, Donal, Elemental
   * Vs Mirriana  (1d20+32)[ 50 ]  dam  (2d6+18)[ 22 ]  +  (2d6)[ 9 ]  Fire   Smoke Miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 42 ] 
   * vs Elkist  (1d20+32)[ 43 ]  dam  (2d6+18)[ 25 ]  +  (2d6)[ 3 ]  Fire        Smoke Miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 28 ] 
   * Vs Donal  (1d20+32)[ 47 ]  dam  (2d6+18)[ 29 ]  +  (2d6)[ 4 ]  Fire       Smoke Miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 49 ] 
   * Vs Elemenatal  (1d20+32)[ 36 ]  dam  (2d6+18)[ 23 ]  +  (2d6)[ 9 ]  Fire  Smoke Miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 53 ] 
 

Darl Quethos himself seems to fold in on himself shadows swarming and warping around him. A flap of his cloak and his hand brushes against his chest, wounds vanishing as he heals himself, as his allies arrive his pale face with pointed chin and sallow eyes grin happily and he looks at the woman (and Donal) attacking him, gesturing with the dead hand of the god of undeath at Mirriana once more, this time seeking to undo her very essence!

 
Swift: Quickened Heal
Standard: Implosion vs Mirriana Fort DC 28 : Save or DIE!!
 

On the left flank Lan flies upwards away from pair of tiefling assassins as he and Zarina lose sight of everyone in the midst of the cloud of smoke the drips off the massive stallion as its titanic mounted rider that jabs with its lance into the black acrid smoke. the pair of assassains move to flank the warrior mage, hands and feet jabbing and choping at Zarina as she seeks to defend herself.

 One Assassins 5ft to flank Zarina, both full attack her
 Flurry 1
  *  (1d20+26)[ 33 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 19 ]  +  (2d6)[ 3 ]  sneak
  *  (1d20+26)[ 39 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 16 ]  +  (2d6)[ 9 ]  sneak
  *  (1d20+26)[ 38 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 17 ]  +  (2d6)[ 7 ]  sneak
  *  (1d20+21)[ 34 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 10 ]  +  (2d6)[ 12 ]  sneak
  *  (1d20+16)[ 36 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 14 ]  +  (2d6)[ 2 ]  sneak

 Flurry 2
  *  (1d20+26)[ 33 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 13 ]  +  (2d6)[ 2 ]  sneak
  *  (1d20+26)[ 42 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 16 ]  +  (2d6)[ 8 ]  sneak
  *  (1d20+26)[ 44 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 16 ]  +  (2d6)[ 6 ]  sneak
  *  (1d20+21)[ 31 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 15 ]  +  (2d6)[ 6 ]  sneak
  *  (1d20+16)[ 25 ]  dam  (2d6+8)[ 13 ]  +  (2d6)[ 9 ]  sneak

 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan cursed under his breath as he stupidly opened himself to a counter-attack by the two lithe figures.  His arrogance and aggressiveness had cost him dearly - while he dodged a couple of blows, three left him bleeding profusely as he scrambled away upwards from the two attackers.  As he moved, Zarina came to his rescue, nearly slicing one of them in two.  But the two bastards immediately set in upon the warrior mage, their blades almost invisible with the speed they attacked.   As the group made preparations, Lan called upon his ability to see through his opponents defenses and strike true.  With his eyes glowing blue (unseen to all currently), he waited for the call to arms.  When it came, he launched forward, tapping into his connection with the wilds to move swiftly.  Anyone who could perceive the halfling would have seen his arm flash swiftly, sending one, two, three, four, five glowing javelins at the dark priest's heart.  Time to see if this apostle of a lost god was as good as they feared.

 
  Round 2 : Tumble away (move action for failed DC) so takes a move action; fly up, w/in 30' and attack the Matrix twins with full attack (wounded one first)


  Attack 1 - Touch  - (1d20+26)[ 34 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 7 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 19 ] = 26 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+21)[ 41 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 26 ; if 32confirms  31 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+16)[ 31 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 32 ] = 38 
   Rapid Shot  - (1d20+26)[ 27 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 26   Nat 1, dammit ...
  Haste  - (1d20+26)[ 40 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 19 ] = 25 

More damage if they are undead, arcane spellcasters, constructs or elemental 🙂
 Effects : Find the gap (1st attack each round is vs touch AC, 5 rounds); Invisible (8 rounds), Haste (+1 att/AC/Ref, +30 move, +1 extra attack; 13 rounds); heroics (imp rapid shot, 140 min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); extended wind walk (28 hours);  +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 62/125 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/23) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image,  find the gap , find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5, Travel devotion: 1/1

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
Auranghzeb
 Makavoy 

The nightmarish beast eluded his mental order, how dared it.

But there was little time to think, spells were flying around. Makavoy's ring tingled as he spontaneously tried to dispel a powerful and dangerous spell from an unseen enemy. The smoke obscured the view, but he didn't need it as long as the enemies were  thinking... 

Closing his eyes he suppressed the blessings of the Green Lady for an instant to aid his spellcasting and made the ground explode in searing sand under the Efreeti, the Nightmarish rider and the remaining deadly Monk.

Then he repositioned and became incorporeal once again, Zceryl's influence made his mirror-like eyes gleam with arrogance: he was smart and impossible to catch, just like a desert muskrat, he smiled.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Standard action: Using Vestige metamagic (1 remaining)to sculpt flaywind burst into 4 10' cubes exploding right at the efreeti, the rider and the monk.  (10d6)[ 34 ]  untyped damage flaying sand. Ref DC 22 Half damage. Then Fort DC 22 negates: Medium creatures are blown away  (1d6)[ 2 ] x10 feet. Large creatures can't move against the wind and if flying are blown back  (1d6)[ 4 ] x5 feet.
Move: Move around the battlefield and into the trees.
Swift: Swift Etherealness.

 
Chambers
 Donal 

Rebuffed by the clerics ward Donal looks for new targets. Thankfully the new targets bring themselves to him and Donal's own ward prooves just as effective against fire as the clerics was against him. The flame washes over Donal and flashes away with no effect and his armor takes the brunt of the blow from the Efreeti swordsman. He adjusts to a better position and swings out at the Efreeti with his own electrified strikes.

 
 Spoiler 
Swift Action: Activate Bracers of Lightning
Free Action: 5ft step
Full-Round Action: Full Attack the Efreeti

If Donal's 5ft step brings him into flanking with the Efreeti, then each attack is made at +2 and deals 2d6 sneak attack damage.

Attack  (1d20+31)[ 33 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+20)[ 30 ] 
[roll]+1d6[/roll] Fire Damage
[roll]+1d6[/roll] Electricity Damage
[roll]+2d6[/roll] Sneak Attack Damage (if flanking)

Attack  (1d20+26)[ 31 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+20)[ 30 ] 
[roll]+1d6[/roll] Fire Damage
[roll]+1d6[/roll] Electricity Damage
[roll]+2d6[/roll] Sneak Attack Damage (if flanking)

Attack  (1d20+21)[ 41 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+20)[ 27 ] 
[roll]+1d6[/roll] Fire Damage
[roll]+1d6[/roll] Electricity Damage
[roll]+2d6[/roll] Sneak Attack Damage (if flanking)


Donal
HP 168/181 (DR 8/- [5/50])
Temp HP: 0
AC 48 (53 vs ranged attacks; Deflect Arrows 1/round)
Touch 21, Flat-footed 48


F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Attack +31/+26/+21
Damage 1d10+20 +1d6 Fire +1d6 Electricity +2d6 Sneak Attack

Spells Active: Longstrider, Greater Magic Weapon, Magic Vestment, Superior Resistance, Mass Resist Energy (Fire 30), Shield of Faith, Barkskin
Spells from Others: Heroes Feast (+1 morale attack), Protection Devotion aura (+5 sacred AC)
 
DrK
[QUOTE=DrK;25838908]      
     Zarina    

Surrounded by the assassins Zarina twists and tries to parry as her images shatter and vanish all around her. Twice blades make contact with her and blood splatters on the ground but any panic she has is short lived as a flurry of javelins lance down killing one of the would be assassins and sorely wounding another. She gives a smile and a nod to Lan,  trying not to focus on the fog and wind around the centre as she spins around, blade levelled at the tiefling,  "You are foolish to ally with such a creature and now you will pay with your life."  she follows it up with a flurry of blows sword spinning as she seeks to cut him down before spinning and gesturing at the flying nightmare, her circlet glowing as a blast of fire erupts around him.

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Swift: Circlet rapid casting (3 charges) to cast Fireball on Nightmare and Rider (empowered due to 1/day empowering strike)
  --- Spell resistance  (1d20+18)[ 32 ]  Dam  (10d6)[ 37 ]  x 1.5 Ref DC 18 for half
Full attack the Tiefling PA 2
 (1d20+21)[ 40 ]  dam  (2d8+13)[ 21 ] 
 (1d20+21)[ 34 ]  dam  (2d8+13)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20+16)[ 29 ]  dam  (2d8+13)[ 24 ] 
 (1d20+11)[ 15 ]  dam  (2d8+13)[ 29 ] 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  95 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)
Elkist: Mass resist energy 30 (110 mins)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear

Shield 28 mins
Dragonskin Red (Fire 20, Nat arm +5) 140 mins
Haste 11 rounds


 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

The evil cleric team's reprisals were brutal, but among the storm of blows and spells only one manages to get past my guard doing little but annoy me. Unfortunately Elkist wasn't so fortunate, but Darl Quethos's attempted use of heal offers my ring an opportunity to turn the tables with the spell that would have healed him instead healing my friend.

My blade shines with divine power as I make a single empowered strike as the elemental continues to beat its fists against him, undeterred by his too-small repulsion field.

 
 Spoiler 

Immediate action: Ring of spell battle to redirect the target of the heal to Elkist

Standard action Divine Surge  (1d20+28)[ 32 ]  vs Darl Quethos
Damage  (2d6+10)[ 19 ]  plus  (8d8)[ 33 ] 

Elemental full attack
Slam  (1d20+22)[ 38 ]  Damage  (2d10+10)[ 25 ] 
Slam  (1d20+22)[ 35 ]  Damage  (2d10+10)[ 26 ] 
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

The lance pierces her side and punches out the other. As the dark knight withdraws the cruel weapon Elkist coughs a gout of heart-blood, slumping to her knees as darkness takes her...but then - Mirriana harnesses the foul magic of Darl Quethos and turns it, purifying the magic and pulling her back from the brink. With renewed vigor she's able to rejoin the attack on the black priest!

 
 Spoiler: actions 

 Swift:  Heart of Earth -&gt; Stoneskin
 Full:  Lightning Sword  (1d20+17)[ 35 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast, -12 PA, +5 law devotion) damage  (2d6+35)[ 47 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) + electricity  (1d6)[ 4 ] 
Lightning Sword  (1d20+12)[ 26 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast, -12 PA, +5 law devotion) damage  (2d6+35)[ 41 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) + electricity  (1d6)[ 6 ] 
Lightning Sword  (1d20+7)[ 24 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast, -12 PA, +5 law devotion) damage  (2d6+35)[ 46 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) + electricity  (1d6)[ 5 ] 

Concealment (if needed)  (1d100)[ 16 ]  (1d100)[ 96 ]  (1d100)[ 7 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  5,  HP  105/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  24,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  24,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +20/ +15/ +10 (+12 base, +5 str, +2 weapon, +1 Heroes' Feast) (2d6+9 (+7 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+11 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition 
Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Shield Other (wand): Mirriana
Righteous Aura (wand): +4 sacred Cha, daylight
Heroes Feast (Mirriana): immune poison &amp; fear, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls &amp; Will saves, +10 temp hp
Mass Resist Energy/30 fire. (Donal)
Protection from Energy/ Acid)

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Law devotion: +5 sacred to attack (1 mins)

Round+ effects:

Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
 

 
 
  
DrK
The nightmare riding barbed devil thing had charged in wreaking a devastating blow on Elkist even as the hooves of the beast snared everyone in thick smoke. The towering muscular efreet had also joined in, blade spinning as its hewed at Elkist, Mirriana and Donal with some effect.

THe master of Dark magics had aimed to heal himself but been stymied by Mirriana's ring that shimmers on her finger as she targets Elkist who's wounds heal up. In response Darl concentrated on Mirriana seeking to merely unmake her, the power was too strong for Makahovoy's ring but Mirriana's iron will and power kept her safe.

Off to the side of the field as Lan flies away the two monks lash into Zarina, wo is left with minor wounds from the blows as image after image is shattered by the flurry of attacks. Lan however responds with savage fury, even as the monks twist and dodge one falls, pinned to the ground through chest and neck, the other shireking in abysaal as a 3 foot spear of force strikes her chest. Its shortlived as Zarina whirls around, blade whirling as she effectively dismembers the strange shadowy warrior before fire erupts around the barbed rider


In the centre of the battle the air around the winged rider and the Efreeti is filled with savage wind and tearing dust that shreds flesh and scales alike. As the dust and wind blew the smoke away Donal swept his blade at the Efreeti, blade hewing into the creature twice with deep gashes.  Its followed up in the centre by Mirriana and the elemental pounding and smashing at Darl Quethos who lets out a grunt and hoarse  "Why did you come here... you need not stop this."  as he is hit.  Elkist joins in the carnage, her first blow just missing in the swirling smoke and dust before other more solid enchantments protect the priest from the other blows from the crackling sword.

The Efreeti looks at Donal smiling, before lunging forward, his blade igniting with fire as he duels the human swordsman. The creature's strength and burning red blade brutal in the extreme!

 
Swift: Searing blade
Full attack vs Donal
-  (1d20+32)[ 42 ]  dam  (2d6+18)[ 26 ]  +  (5d6+9)[ 27 ]  Fire
-  (1d20+27)[ 43 ]  dam  (2d6+18)[ 25 ]  +  (5d6+9)[ 26 ]  Fire
-  (1d20+22)[ 35 ]  dam  (2d6+18)[ 30 ]  +  (5d6+9)[ 20 ]  Fire
 

The nighmare and its fell rider hovers above the area, buffeted by the flaywind that scrapes and abrades the armour and supernatural dark horse flesh. Hooves lash out kicking down at Mirriana and Elkist. The rider holds his lance aloft angrily, glancing at Mahkavoy who had not been able to step into the ethereal plane plane a  dark ball of angry fire streaks towards the mage exploding before the savage barbed outside starts jabbing down with his lance at Elemental, Elkist and Mirriana

 
Hoof vs Mirriana  (1d20+24)[ 43 ]  dam  (2d6+17)[ 29 ]  +  (1d4)[ 3 ]  fire
Hoof vs Elkist (1d20+24)[ 34 ]  dam  (2d6+17)[ 28 ]  +  (1d4)[ 4 ]  fire

Rider:
As Mahkavoy use swift and immediate last round I don't he's got the swft for ethereal step again/.
Swft: Quicken SPA for unholy fireball  (10d6)[ 35 ]  half fire half unhol Ref DC 19 for haf
Full attack:
vs Elemental  (1d20+24)[ 33 ]  dam  (2d6+16)[ 21 ] 
vs Mirriana  (1d20+24)[ 32 ]  dam  (2d6+16)[ 22 ]  +  (2d6)[ 4 ] 
vs Elkist  (1d20+19)[ 35 ]  dam  (2d6+16)[ 23 ]  +  (2d6)[ 8 ] 
vs Mirriana  (1d20+14)[ 22 ]  dam  (2d6+16)[ 23 ]  +  (2d6)[ 10 ] 
 

In the heart of it, still shrouded in dark magics and layers of magical wardings Darl Quethos glowers at Mirriana. Still speaking, his voice hoarse and like a whisper.  "We could have shared the knowledge you foolish wench... I do not worship that idiot WormGod"  before he concentrates this time on Donal seeking to unmake the man before letting the implision lack and lashing out with more spells as he seeks to drain Mirriana's power with beams of black power before just blasting Mirriana, Donal and Elksist with abjurations to remove their magical wardings


 
Move: Concentrate on Implosion vs Donal DC 28 Fort or explode
Swift: Quickened Enervate  (1d20+18)[ 27 ]  or  (1d4)[ 4 ]  negative levels
Standard: Chain Dispel (acts as targeted dispel)
  Vs Mirriana   (10d20)[ 13 ][ 10 ][ 12 ][ 2 ][ 19 ][ 7 ][ 4 ][ 6 ][ 19 ][ 15 ](107)  as needed with +18 to each roll
  Vs Elkist     (10d20)[ 6 ][ 7 ][ 7 ][ 7 ][ 15 ][ 10 ][ 1 ][ 2 ][ 10 ][ 17 ](82)  as needed with +18 to each roll
  Vs Donal  (10d20)[ 15 ][ 19 ][ 20 ][ 12 ][ 6 ][ 4 ][ 6 ][ 4 ][ 17 ][ 15 ](118)  as needed with +18 to each roll
  Vs Elemental  (1d20+18)[ 38 ]  to see if its dispelled



 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan gave a savage smile as the tielflings fell beneath the combined might of spear and blade.  He glanced to Zarina for a moment, checking to see she was still okay, before nodding and zipping forward to join the fray.  With several targets still in play, Lan thought for a moment, then remembered Mir's original orders and targeted the priest.

 
  Round 3 : Fly w/in 30' as swift, full attack vs Quethos

  Attack 1 - Touch  - (1d20+26)[ 34 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 17 ] = 22 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+21)[ 39 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 29 
  Attack 3  - (1d20+16)[ 25 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 29 
  Rapid Shot  - (1d20+26)[ 37 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 6 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 17 ] = 23 
  Haste  - (1d20+26)[ 38 ] ,   Damage  - (1d4+4)[ 5 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 27 ] = 32 
 Effects : Find the gap (1st attack each round is vs touch AC, 4 rounds); Invisible (7 rounds), Travel Devotion (7 rounds, extra move); Haste (+1 att/AC/Ref, +30 move, +1 extra attack; 12 rounds); heroics (imp rapid shot, 140 min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); extended wind walk (28 hours);  +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 62/125 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/23) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +16 R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image,  find the gap , find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5, Travel devotion: 0/1

 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
Chambers
 Donal 

The efreets lines were tough work to parry and dodge but Donal managed to beat each attack. Any satisfaction was brief as he barely resisted the clerics death urge and then without a moment to catch his breath the clerics second spell ripped into his defenses, shredding them.   Need to stop fooling around with this one!  

Donal stomps on the ground and pounds his sword against his shield, trying to raise his blood. He lets out a howling yell as the rage takes over him, blood tricking down his mouth. Electricity surges along Donal's blade once again as he engages the efreet, trying to bring him down for good.

 
 Spoiler 
Swift action: Activate Bracers of Lightning.
Free Action: RAGE!
Full-Round action: Full Attack the efreet

Attack  (1d20+32)[ 43 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+22)[ 27 ] 
 (1d6)[ 4 ]  Fire Damage
 (1d6)[ 3 ]  Electicity Damage

Attack  (1d20+27)[ 44 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+22)[ 27 ] 
 (1d6)[ 5 ]  Fire Damage
 (1d6)[ 4 ]  Electicity Damage

Attack  (1d20+22)[ 27 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+22)[ 32 ] 
 (1d6)[ 5 ]  Fire Damage
 (1d6)[ 1 ]  Electicity Damage



Donal
HP 168/181; 198/211 while Raging (DR 8/- [5/50])
Temp HP: 0
AC 46 (51 vs ranged attacks; Deflect Arrows 1/round)
Touch 19, Flat-footed 46


F/R/W: +17/+9/+15

Attack +32/+27/+22
Damage 1d10+22 +1d6 Fire +1d6 Electricity +2d6 Sneak Attack

Spells Active: Longstrider, Greater Magic Weapon, Magic Vestment, Mass Resist Energy (Fire 30), Shield of Faith, Barkskin, Rage (1st of 9 rounds)
Spells from Others: Protection Devotion aura (+5 sacred AC)
 
DrK
[QUOTE=DrK;25889143][QUOTE=DrK;25838908]      
     Zarina    

Zarina looks over as she can sense the deadly magics wielded over in the cluster of fighting in the centre. She spins and leaps across the grass, hopping over the dead tielfing still pinned to the ground by javelins and hurls herself at the massive red skinned monstrosity, spinning slightly to try and avoid the beast's reach as she lashes out with her sword.
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Charge Efreet
 (1d20+23)[ 25 ]  dam  (2d8+23)[ 33 ] 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  95 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)
Elkist: Mass resist energy 30 (110 mins)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear

Shield 28 mins
Dragonskin Red (Fire 20, Nat arm +5) 140 mins
Haste 10 rounds


 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Even as her radiant aura is dismissed and her other magicks shed from her under Darl Quethos' withering onslaught Elkist's feline countenance growls as she presses with her blade.

 
 Spoiler: actions 

 Swift:  Holy Surge  (2d6)[ 5 ] 
 Full:  Lightning Sword  (1d20+16)[ 31 ]  (+12 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, -12 PA, +5 law devotion) damage  (2d6+35)[ 43 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) + electricity  (1d6)[ 2 ] 
Lightning Sword  (1d20+11)[ 31 ]  (+7 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, -12 PA, +5 law devotion) damage  (2d6+35)[ 39 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) + electricity  (1d6)[ 3 ] 
Lightning Sword  (1d20+6)[ 21 ]  (+2 base, +9 str, +2 weapon, -12 PA, +5 law devotion) damage  (2d6+35)[ 41 ]  (+13 str, +2 weapon, +24 PA) + electricity  (1d6)[ 5 ] 

Concealment (if needed)  (1d100)[ 68 ]  (1d100)[ 52 ]  (1d100)[ 13 ] 
 
 
 
  
Auranghzeb
The arrogance of Zceryll had fooled Makavoy into thinking he was ethereal and couldn't be harmed.

He came back to reality as a black cackling ball of energy hit him and he barely moved away avoiding most of the fire damage and the infernal damage!

The rider was a distraction

The Efreet was a distraciton


He needed to remove distractions!

Hasted, he moved across the battlefield towards the Efreet and extending his hand called a globe of solid fog around the Efreet and the rider blocking their movement as a dense barier.




Then he looked at the rider and the horse

 Come get me you fool! 

And became ethereal, this time for real.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Move: Move around and away from the rider.
Standard: Burning a LvL 5 Slot to sculpt a Solid Fog as four 10' cubes two on the Efreet, avoiding Donald and two on the rider and horse avoiding any ally.

Swift: Swift etherealness

  the solid fog is so thick that any creature attempting to move through it progresses at a speed of 5 feet, regardless of its normal speed, and it takes a -2 penalty on all melee attack and melee damage rolls. 
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I grimace as my counterspell is ineffective and my protections and elemental are dispelled.

"Lashonna sent us to stop you! You say you don't serve Kyuss. Just Dragotha then?"

With my offensive capabilities severely reduced I utter a quick prayer for the health of my companions.
 
 Spoiler 

Immediate counterspell/turn undead/greater Dispel Magic ineffective (natural 1).

Greater Stone shape -&gt; Mass Cure Light Wounds  (1d8+14)[ 22 ] 
 
DrK
The battle continues to hang in the balance as the Champions of Greyhawk press the attack..... but not to huge effect. The devastating antimagical onslaught from Darl Quethos strips away the enchantments shielding Donal, Elkist and Mirriana in a flashing aura of clashing magics and the earth beast vanishes with a dull rumble, although his ray of darkness misses Mirriana and Donal resists being exploded! The Efreeti swings at Donal with quick effective blows but most are parried, the same happening with the black clad rider and his nightmare.

Even as that happens the party respond, Lan throwing more javelins, several striking home, or at least seeming to as they vanish into the dark shrouds of his mantle, but blood trickling onto the ground shows they are making contact. Elkist however misses in a flurry of blows and Donal manages to land a single hit even as Zarina charges in beside him but the massive Efreeti parries her blow with its giant blade.  The barbed rider , his horse and the Efreeti then vanish, cubes of fog engulfing them but arms, legs and horns flap in an out of visibility.

Panting Darl steps back away from Mirriana, Elkist and Donal, a hissed,  "When I seize his phylactery is secrets shall be mine, and Kyuss will be a babe in my hands.."  to prove a point the dark hand of Vecna crackles in with necromantic potential.  Zarina can only wince with pain as she feels a blast of absoslute destruction surround her as Darl once more concentrates his  implosion  upon the new warrior mage crackling with powers even as his holy symbol pulses with a brief healing surge before he spreads his fingers and releases necromatic energy as dark power surges around Mirriana, Elkist, Lan, Zarina and Donal as their blood thins and begins to pour from the eyes, nose and mouth.

 

Swift: Quickened Cure critical  (4d8+19)[ 35 ] 
Standard: Blood to Water upon Zarina, Mirriana, Elkist, Donal, Lan
  --&gt; ALL please make a DC 27 Fort Save or  (2d6)[ 5 ]  CON damage
Move: Concentrate upon Zarina - DC 28 Fort save or Imploded!

 

The cornugon, trapped in the fog atop his nightmare bellows in just pure rage and lashes out with its blade at the party, blades slowed slightly by the fog before a cloud of dark oily fog coalesces around Lan


 Hooves vs Elkist
 (1d20+22)[ 41 ]   dam  (2d6+15)[ 26 ]  +  (1d4)[ 4 ]  fire
 (1d20+22)[ 24 ]   dam  (2d6+15)[ 24 ]  +  (1d4)[ 3 ]  fire

Rider:-
Quickened SPA: Unholy blight on Lan  (5d8)[ 18 ]  unholy damage Will DC 17 for half, If fail also sickened for  (1d4)[ 1 ]  rounds
Full attack vs people
vs Zarina (or Mirriana if Zarina exploded)  (1d20+22)[ 24 ]  dam  (2d6+14)[ 21 ]   miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 50 ]  and Fort D  17 or STUNNED  (1d4)[ 2 ]  rounds
vs Elkist   (1d20+17)[ 23 ]  dam  (2d6+14)[ 20 ]   miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 4 ]  and Fort D  17 or STUNNED  (1d4)[ 4 ]  rounds
vs Donal  (1d20+12)[ 26 ]  dam  (2d6+14)[ 16 ]   miss chance (01-20)  (1d100)[ 40 ]  and Fort D  17 or STUNNED  (1d4)[ 4 ]  rounds


 

The efreeti swishes his sword around angrily, before vanishing from within the cloud and stepping out of a cloud of shadow behind Donal and Elkist and then slashing at Donal with is blade after a careful glance as he grins at the shattering of Donal's magical enhancements. The blade lashing out with immense precision.

 

Move: Shadow stride
Standard: Ruby nightmare blade
 - Concentration check  (1d20+27)[ 31 ] 
 - attack roll  (1d20+32)[ 33 ]  dam  (4d6+36)[ 54 ]  (half if the concentration check misses AC)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist presciently senses the impending ill fortune of her companion. She swirls a step backwards as she speaks the words trying but failing to correct the flow, feeling her power ebb. Crying out it anguish she utters a few more words and gestures bolstering herself and refocuses on the opponents at hand...

 
 Spoiler: actions 

 Immediate:  Cast Alter Fortune -&gt; Zarina reroll save
 Not:  5ft step
 Standard:  Cast Heart of Earth
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  0,  HP  43+22/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  24,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  24,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +18/ +13/ +8 (+12 base, +5 str, +2 weapon) (2d6+9 (+7 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+11 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 25
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
Blood to Water -5 Con (~offsets Bite of Weretiger)
 

 
 
  
DrK
      
     Zarina    


Zarina spins, even as the efreeti blocks her blade. She meets the dark glittering eyes of Darl Quethos and feels a warping al around her. Pressure crushes every part of her body before with a tearing sound and a scream that tears her throat her body melts away into dust, compressing into motes of dust that swirl away chaos of the battle, a dull "clang" as her father's full blade slams into the ground....
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  95 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)
Elkist: Mass resist energy 30 (110 mins)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear

Shield 28 mins
Dragonskin Red (Fire 20, Nat arm +5) 140 mins
Haste 10 rounds


 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Chambers
 Donal 

The healing from their captain healed what little wounds Donal had as he brushed aside the Rider's attacks and easily dodged the efreeti's blade. The spell from the cleric froze his heart for a second but he fought through it. Out of the corner of his eye he watched Zarina cease to exist.

  "Fight on!"   He shouted as he swung his electrified blade at the efreeti.

 
 Spoiler 
Swift action: Activate Bracers of Lightning.
Full-Round action: Full Attack the efreeti.

Attack  (1d20+32)[ 44 ] 
 (1d10+22)[ 32 ] Sword Damage
 (1d6)[ 5 ]  Fire Damage
 (1d6)[ 2 ]  Electricity Damage

Attack  (1d20+27)[ 32 ] 
 (1d10+22)[ 32 ] Sword Damage
 (1d6)[ 3 ]  Fire Damage
 (1d6)[ 4 ]  Electricity Damage

Attack  (1d20+22)[ 27 ] 
 (1d10+22)[ 27 ] Sword Damage
 (1d6)[ 5 ]  Fire Damage
 (1d6)[ 5 ]  Electricity Damage


Donal
HP 181/181; 211/211 while Raging (DR 8/- [5/50])
Temp HP: 0
AC 46 (51 vs ranged attacks; Deflect Arrows 1/round)
Touch 19, Flat-footed 46


F/R/W: +17/+9/+15

Attack +32/+27/+22
Damage 1d10+22 +1d6 Fire +1d6 Electricity +2d6 Sneak Attack

Spells Active: Longstrider, Greater Magic Weapon, Magic Vestment, Mass Resist Energy (Fire 30), Shield of Faith, Barkskin, Rage (2nd of 9 rounds)
Spells from Others: Protection Devotion aura (+5 sacred AC)
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy sees Zarina implode. He didn't know her as well as all the others did, but she was much braver and capable warrior than Makavoy would ever be. He loss was discouraging and terrifying. Had they bit more they could chew?
Zceryll arrogance overtook him and dismissed those ideas.

 HE was powerful too, he was the vessel of Zceryl 

Makavor moved into the battlefield, invisible and avoiding Darl Quethos gaze, he burn through his arcane power to flay his enemies flesh!

Conjuring the sands form Suel he sculpt them into a cylinder of Flaywind burst engulfing Darl Quethos!


 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Move: Move into range
Standard: Using a 6th level spell to sculp a flaywind burst as a 10' cylinder by 30' high centered behind Darl to exclude any ally on melee. Ref DC 22 for half  (10d6)[ 37 ]  and DC 22 Fort or fall prone.
Swift: Go ethereal
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

The blood to water spell chills my blood as my counterspell attempt fails (and I murmur a quick prayer to Mystara for improved luck) but not half as much as Zarina's abrupt death less than a moment later! Despite the removal of my protections my armour is still proof against the cornugon's blade though that feels like a small mercy. I feared this day might come, but I'm not unprepared! Drawing a scroll of revenance I read the reviving prayer over the broken body of my fallen companion. " Revenance! "

 
 Spoiler 
Immediate counterspell rolled another one. 😡

Using a scroll of Revenance to revive Zarina. I'll move to avoid the cornugon if possible (and Quethos stepped back, so that shouldn't be an issue. Zarina revives with half hit points and without level loss. She'll die again in 7 minutes, but if we win this combat I can fix that!
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    


The blackness fades away as a pinprck of bright white light grows and grows becoming all encompassing before with the pain o a thousand needles her flesh knits togther and for the others they see the motes of dust that was Zarina form back together compressing into the semblance of their companion once more. She staggers, a muttered,   "What, by the gods..."   before seeing Darl shrouded in the strange shadowy darkness. her eyes narrow as she steps back away from the range of efreet and the flying horseman and gestures with a hand. Missiles fly from her hand striking the genie unerringly before a beam of antimagic washes over the horrific that is Darl as his form flickers and sparks with the impact of the reciprocal gyre.
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Free: 5ft step away
Swift: Magic missiles at the genie  (5d4+5)[ 16 ] 
Standard: Reciporacal gyre at Darl Quethos
  --&gt; Reciporical gyre  (13d12)[ 87 ]  dam  Will  (1d20)[ 4 ]  for half, and FORT  (1d20)[ 16 ]  or dazed for  (1d6)[ 5 ]  rounds  Both DC21


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  62 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)
Elkist: Mass resist energy 30 (110 mins)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear

Shield 28 mins
Dragonskin Red (Fire 20, Nat arm +5) 140 mins
Haste 9 rounds


 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
Even as Zarina explodes into motes of dust the rest of the party are assailed by Darl's allies with sparks striking from armour and a great cloud of darkness enveloping the others with an unholy blight that sears and burns the skin. Donal parries the efreeti's blade with a great  clang  before striking back hard and fast drawing reddish flaming blood. On the other side Elkist breathes a moment, her skin hardening into a stony adamantine layer. Finally Mirriana steps back from the violence and calls down powerful magics that ensnares the floating dust motes that were Zarina.

There is a swirl and a flash before Zarina stumbles back into the realm of the living. The warrior-mage shrieks in pain as her body is knitted back together and then she releases a massive blast of abjurant magic at Dark Quethos, the dark priest, the high priest of Vecna, the Dark Queen of magic is surrounded in a dozen magical wards and effects and screams as the gyre hits him, his wounded body cannot take the magical strain and there is a massive blast of dark power as the raw wild magics consumes his body and there is a clanking squelching noise as fragments of armour and equipment drop to the ground.

His allies shriek with rage, contained as thy are within the fog clouds, the efreeti blanketing the area in fire with savage glee as the dark rider atop his nightmare slips into the ethereal plane and flaps somewhere.... On the ethereal plane the shadowy ghostly form of the demonic rider levels his lance at Mahakavoy even as the mage vanishes and flickers back to the material plane.


 OOC

Darl Qethos is dead! Too many magical protections were not his friend!

The Efreti in the fog cloud releases and empowered Fireball on Mirriana / Zarina /Elkist and Donal  (10d6)[ 33 ]  x 1.5 Ref DC 18 for half damage

Nighmare casts etherealness and moves "upwards"
The rider casts a spell of some kind but is more than 60ft away from Mahkavoy and Mirriana


 
Chambers
 Donal 
  "Ha!"   Donal shouts as the fires of the efreeti wash over his warding. He spits on the ground in front of the genie as lightning flickers across his blade.   "Your magic is weak and pathetic."   He taunts before attacking the genie again.

 
 Spoiler 
Swift action: Activate Bracers of Lightning.
Full-Round action: Full Attack the efreeti.

Attack  (1d20+32)[ 37 ] 
 (1d10+22)[ 31 ]  Sword Damage
 (1d6)[ 1 ]  Electricity Damage
 (1d6)[ 2 ]  Fire Damage

Attack  (1d20+27)[ 45 ] 
 (1d10+22)[ 27 ]  Sword Damage
 (1d6)[ 1 ]  Electricity Damage
 (1d6)[ 4 ]  Fire Damage

Attack  (1d20+22)[ 30 ] 
 (1d10+22)[ 25 ]  Sword Damage
 (1d6)[ 5 ]  Electricity Damage
 (1d6)[ 1 ]  Fire Damage



Donal
HP 181/181; 211/211 while Raging (DR 8/- [5/50])
Temp HP: 0
AC 46 (51 vs ranged attacks; Deflect Arrows 1/round)
Touch 19, Flat-footed 46


F/R/W: +17/+9/+15

Attack +32/+27/+22
Damage 1d10+22 +1d6 Fire +1d6 Electricity +2d6 Sneak Attack

Spells Active: Longstrider, Greater Magic Weapon, Magic Vestment, Mass Resist Energy (Fire 30), Shield of Faith, Barkskin, Rage (3rd of 9 rounds)
Spells from Others: Protection Devotion aura (+5 sacred AC)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

With Quethos dead, I turn my attention to the Efreeti, waving away its fireball with a flick of my hand and a wave of disruptive magic and retaliating with a blinding spray of diamond dust!

(I also remember to subject it to my Celestial Brilliance which in the chaos of the battle so far I had rather forgotten to employ)
 
 Spoiler 

Immediate counterspell using dispel magic (max CL of 10 +4 dispelling bonus).

Assay spell resistance -&gt; Diamond Spray
Cone 60ft slashing cold iron adamantine  (10d6)[ 40 ]  and dazzled for  (2d6)[ 7 ] 
REF DC20 for half damage, but dazzled cannot be negated.
Sacrifice component 100gp worth of diamonds.

Celestial Brilliance  9  damage rolled OOC, evil outsiders within 60ft.
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

As two spells washed over Lan, he felt torrents of blood seep from his very pores.  He hovered there for a moment as the blood loss threatened to overwhelm him, but he maintained consciousness and re-oriented on his target.  However, he was forced to watch helplessly as Darl Qethos gestured towards Zarina and ... obliterated her.  A ragged scream rose in the air, one of rage and pain as he watched her disappear in a cloud of glowing motes.  Blinking away the tears, he looked to Mirrana, desperation bordering on insanity clear on his features.  Without missing a beat, the radiant cleric shrugged away the torrent of spells swirling around her, reached out and pulled the motes back.  In an odd reversal of fortune, Lan watched as the dust collected back into a familiar form, leaving a surprised Zarina standing there, alive.

He was so stunned, he didn't even have a chance to say anything before the wondrous woman turned and blasted the Darl into nothingness.  As the dark master disappeared, he felt a wave of heat from the direction of the efreet, but it was gone in a dismissive wave of Mirr's hand.  Nearby, the Rider and Nightmare turn to fly upwards, transforming into an invisible misty form as they flew.  With that, the halfling shook his head and took action.  Pulling free a potion, he considered it for a moment, then held on to it and touched his temple, activating his headband as he gazed upward.

His eyes glowed and suddenly he could see the fleeing foes, eliciting a grim, dark smile.  Flying upwards swiftly, he closed to within 30' and threw a barrage of javelins comprised of pure energy.    "Not so fast, bastich ..."  

 
  Round 5-6 : Figure since I'm late it's best to RP that all as a bit stunned by Z's death and revival.  Hopefully it's okay to do a little theater of the mind and have his two actions kind of take place after resolution of Zarina's fate.
- Round 5: Retrieve a potion (move) and activate his scout's headband for true seeing (1 minute), fly upwards as necessary to get within 'skirmish range.'
- Round 6: Fly upwards to move 20' and get w/in 30' (swift), full round to rapid shot attack!

Attack 1 vs Touch - (1d20+26)[ 42 ], Javelin - (1d4+4)[ 8 ]+Skirmish - (6d6)[ 23 ]= 31 
Attack 2 - (1d20+21)[ 40 ], Javelin - (1d4+4)[ 6 ]+Skirmish - (6d6)[ 22 ]= 28 
Attack 3 - (1d20+16)[ 23 ], Javelin - (1d4+4)[ 5 ]+Skirmish - (6d6)[ 22 ]= 27 
Rapid Shot - (1d20+26)[ 31 ], Javelin - (1d4+4)[ 6 ]+Skirmish - (6d6)[ 25 ]= 31 
Haste - (1d20+26)[ 34 ], Javelin - (1d4+4)[ 6 ]+Skirmish - (6d6)[ 18 ]= 24 
 Effects :  -5 Con (Blood to Water) ; true seeing (10 rounds); Find the gap (1st attack each round is vs touch AC, 1 rounds); Invisible (4 rounds?), Travel Devotion (4 rounds, extra move); Vest (fly 60', 3 rnds); Haste (+1 att/AC/Ref, +30 move, +1 extra attack; 9 rounds); heroics (imp rapid shot, 140 min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); extended wind walk (28 hours);  +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 30/125 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/23) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +18 R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image,  find the gap , find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Travel devotion: 0/1
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5, 2x Cure Serious Wounds, 1x potion non-detection, 1x potion undetectable alignment, 1x potion of haste, 1 belt of dwarvenkind (+4 Con)
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14  Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina lets out a scream of primal rage, pain and triumph as Darl is destroyed, before she flinches for a second before the fire vanishes to be replaced by a dazzling cone of diamonds that engulfs the genie. Seeing the genie reeling heavily from the diamond blast and Donal's sword play and the vanishing black rider she turns her own magic upon the genie, holding aloft her blue sapphire ring that releases a great crackling surge of electicity to be followed up by a hail of more magic missiles.

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Swift: circlet + magic missiles  (5d4+5)[ 19 ] 
Standard: Ring of the Wind Dukes Chain lightning  (15d6)[ 45 ]  Ref DC 21 for half

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  62 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)
Elkist: Mass resist energy 30 (110 mins)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear

Shield 28 mins
Dragonskin Red (Fire 20, Nat arm +5) 140 mins
Haste 8 rounds


 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Auranghzeb
It all played effortlessly in his imagination! A wave of searing sand blasting the evil cleric, his companions saved by his wits and the dust of Suel. But blinded by the arrogance of Zceryll Makavoy simply does not realize he is ethereal until his spell fizzles. The world blurs around and he is left a fool, an invisible and ethereal fool.

He re-materializes on time to watch the cleric blown away by Zarina's magic and Donald cleaving the Efreet in two even pieces.

But where's the rider and his mount.

Makavoy readies himself to blast the damned creature if they were to appear.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Readying a Fireball by swapping out a third level spell and using the googles of the golden sun

DC 19  (10D6)[ 34 ] 
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

The turn in the battle is sudden and due to her companions skill, Elkist finds herself without an obvious foe. She plants her sword in the ground next to her and grasps her long orcish spear, awaiting the hellish rider to show itself. As she does, she invokes a minor blessing a wave of minor healing washing across those allies nearby.

 
 Spoiler: actions 

 Swift:  Heart of Earth -&gt; Stoneskin
 Move:  Draw +1 longspear
 Standard:  Cast Mass Lesser Vigor
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  0,  HP  43+22/105,  Speed  30ft
 AC  24,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  24,  Fort  21,  Ref  16,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +18/ +13/ +8 (+12 base, +5 str, +2 weapon) (2d6+9 (+7 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield  (+11 Armor, +3 Shield)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 25
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
Blood to Water -5 Con (~offsets Bite of Weretiger)
 

 
 
  
DrK
Darl dies hard in a blast of pure magic, before Mirriana banishes the efreeti's fire with a wave of her hand. Its form shakes as Donal smashes it twice heavily with his blade before it finally and messily explodes as its caught between the twin blasts of crackling lightning and the diamond dust that shreds its body before it explodes.  As everyone takes a breath a voice rings out in your heads   "I shall meet you again... I was bound to serve Master Quethos"   then there is a faint rippling in the sky as a rent opens to a distant and dark plane and you (assume) the rider flees through the rift now its free of its (lawful evil) obligation to the now dead Darl Quethos... Even as he flees Lan flies up after him crackling force javelins hammering into or off his armour before he vanishes into the rift.

Zarina drops to a knee as he myriad wounds, burns and blights start to knit together. She looks towards Mirriana,   "I feel strange constable. Like a visitor in my body, like a piece of me is missing. I do not know what you did but I thnk you...""   she says as she looks around.  A cold pale hand clasping the shoulder of Elkist and Mirriana and fond look and a wave at Lan as the halfling flies around nearby bloodied but unbowed.

As the enormity of their victory sinks in you can look around at the scattered remains of the enemies and the various magical goodies that they have all dropped...

 
 Spoiler: LOOT 


On the tiefling monk/swordsage twins
Boots of Speed; Quicksilver boots
Gloves of Dexterity +4 (x2)
Amulet of Mighty fists +2
Amulet of Mighty Unholy fists +1
Potion of (Haste, Protection from Good, Blur (2), Cure Serious Wounds)

On the Efreeti
Chain shirt +2 of Frost resistance 10
Flaming burst desert wind falchion +1
Amulet of natural armour +3
Brilliant white and red enameled scale cloak (4000gp)
Ornate brass anklets studded with Opals (12000gp)

On Darl Himself
Wand Cure Serious Wounds (35), Wand of Stoneskin (10), Wand of Restoration (8), Wand Charm monster (22)
Animated Heavy steel shield +1
Chainmail +1 of Greater Fortification
Periapt of Wisdom +6
Robe of Eyes
Heavy Mace +1
HAND OF VECNA
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I move quickly to take Zarina's hand, clasping it firmly but reassuringly.

"What I did was an emergency procedure to bind your soul back to your body with enough strength to fight in battle, but the energies involved are unstable and it won't last. In about 6 more minutes you'll die again - but when that happens I'll be able to perform a more permanent fix! I've got you Zarina, I'm not going to let you go!"
Auranghzeb
Makavoy sends a fireball towards the rider, but Lan's javelins are faster and the Nightmare creature manages to escape.

***

He dismisses his invisibility spell and approaches the rest, taking a long look with his mirror like eyes at the body of the evil cleric of Vecna.

  This is it... another servant put down for good.   

He eyes the others...

  Darl Qethos should have something we could use to cure us  
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

With his foe gone, Lan growled to himself, then returned to the group as they gathered and searched the bodies of the fallen.  He approached Mirrana as she and Zarina shared a moment, waiting to the side until there was a moment to speak with the cleric alone.  Stepping forward, he cleared his throat, staring at the ground for a moment before he spoke, his voice low and gravelly.

 
 Spoiler: Conversation with Mirr 
  "Hey ... um ... I just wanted to say thank you ... for saving Zarina.  I ... I know you didn't do it for me.  You did it because that's who you are.  But it means ... it means a LOT to me.   She  means a lot. Like Celete to you ...

I, uh, my family died long ago, and I don't have a lot of friends.  It's been a long time since I've been close to ... anyone.  But you ... you've been there since the beginning.  I followed you because it felt like the right thing to do.  You were willing to step up, even if it got us into trouble more than not.  But ... I guess ..."  

Lan paused, running one of his hands through his hair before shaking his head and continuing.   "I'm a survivor.
 I've seen some of the worst this world has to offer, but I can usually fight may way through it.  When I can't, I learned to run ... can't live t'fight another day if you're already dead, right?  Early on, there were several times I almost left ... left y'all to deal with the crap storm we stirred up.  But ... but I didn't.  Cuz ... cuz y'all became ... we became ... close.

I been followin' you cuz you seemed to be pretty good at the leader thing.  But now ... now I realize I'm followin' you because I ... I care.  And you gave me something I ain't had for a while.  Something to believe in.  I ... truly ... believe ... in you.  I believe in you, and  know  you can ... and will ... make a difference.  And ... and I want to be there when you do.

So you've got my blade ... my spears ... my claws ... any of it.   All  of it.  I'm with you 'till the end." 
 


Lan bowed his head to Mirrana, face red ... with embarrassment?  Quickly turning away, he departed to check the pile of equipment growing near the bodies of the fallen.  Riffling through the items, he noticed several that could help him, but nothing more than what he already had.  He asked aloud,  "Can anymore merge these items?  Or do we need to just trade back in for different stuff?" 

Wandering over to the feather and the bark, he mused for a moment, then glanced back up to Mirr.   "I guess we've got time to go get the last item ... unless that knight comes back with reinforcements ... Do we rest first, or what?" 

 
  OOC : A little RP ...

For treasure, Lan would be interested in the speed boots, +4 Dex gloves and natural armor amulet, but given he already has all those body slots taken, I guess he won't worry about them (unless we can merge them with existing items).

He would probably grab the potions on the tiefling monks (except the protection from good) and call it good.  Anything True seeing might see before it runs out?  Also, how long until the blood to water wears off?

 Effects :  -5 Con (Blood to Water) ; heroics (imp rapid shot, 140 min); deeper darkvision (90ft darkvision, no 20% miss chance for shadows; 7 hours); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); extended wind walk (28 hours);  +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 30/ (95) 125 AC: 23 (30) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 (25/23) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +18 R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image,  find the gap , find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Travel devotion: 0/1
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 4/5, 2x Cure Serious Wounds, 1x potion non-detection, 1x potion undetectable alignment, 1x potion of haste, 1 belt of dwarvenkind (+4 Con)
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14 Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina shivers, taking Mirriana's hands.   "I shall trust you, even if the thought of dying once again does scare me more than I care to admit. Here, under the ziggurat, in the swamp with the Dragons. You have saved more more times than I know Mirriana."   As Zarina blushes slightly at Lan's words she reaches out pats the halfling on the head.   "As Lan, says. You have my blade, bow and magics. Till the end."   Then with a forced smile,   "Although I hope that end is a long time from now and in an Inn surrounded by my friends with Dragotha's head mounted upon the wall."  . The last said with a faint shudder.

Looking over the items she compares her feet to that of the assassins and nods happily and then also runs a hand down the fine falchion wielded by the genie. Still saddened by the loss of the Sword Aqaa. Of interest is the massive feather from the roc and the large chunk of heartwood from the blackened nightmare twist at the heart of the clearing.   "As dear Lan says, there is only the nighmare beast "Harrowdeath". Whilst the devilish rider fled and I do not know if he could planeshift back to this demi-plane I suspect haste may be our friend here. AT the very least we know our enemies are here and only a fraction behind us."   

With that said she'll wait patiently beside Mirriana until the time is elapsed at which with a faint sigh, a smile at her friends the colour drains from her face and she slumps over onto the grass quite, quite dead!
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,
 HP  62 / 125
 AC  19,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  17,    +12 AC = 24
 Fort  14,  Ref  11,  Will  8,       : +6 to all,
 Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
  Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20) +1d6 vs undead

 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+7 Armor, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11

 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)
Elkist: Mass resist energy 30 (110 mins)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear

Shield 28 mins
Dragonskin Red (Fire 20, Nat arm +5) 140 mins
Haste 8 rounds


 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
 [Ready] Divine Surge (strike) 
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy eyes the hand of Vecna... Bound as he is to the Green Lady, the faithful servant of Wee-Jas in Suel, he feels the Vestige manifesting through him, he feels her satisfaction at the sight of the slain cleric. He grabs the hand.

  This artifact is too dangerous, we should destroy it.

  

He gently puts it down and picks up the wand of cure serious wounds. He channels his understanding of magic to use it on those wounded with the exception of Zarina.

 I don't think you'll be needing this. Instead, if only for a brief moment, I'll give you Wee-Jas' blessing for the short span of death your are going to experience.  
 
 Spoiler: OoO 
UMD Cure serious wounds
Donal
 (1d20+23)[ 40 ] 
 (3d8)[ 10 ]  +CL

Mirriana
 (1d20+23)[ 32 ] 
 (3d8)[ 16 ]  +CL

Lan
 (1d20+23)[ 35 ] 
 (3d8)[ 15 ]  +CL

Himself
 (1d20+23)[ 41 ] 
 (3d8)[ 6 ]  +CL
 
Chambers
 Donal 

Sending a silent curse at the fleeing rider, Donal stands a few paces back from his new companions as they handle the rush of emotions that accompany death.   Those who live by the blade...   He offers a brief salute with his sword to Zarina as she prepares herself to meet death again. The pounding of his own heartbeat slows down as his adrenaline crashes but aside from the momentary fatigue he's none the worse for wear.

  "A wise decision, friend."   Donal says to Makavoy, pointing his sword at the shriveled hand.   "There are many who would claim that one's power for themselves, yet find in the end it serves only one master."  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

My fingers stroke Zarina's hair, offering a silent comfort as the minutes crawl towards their inevitable end. I withdraw the scroll of Revivify from my pack and lay it across my lap, a silent promise glittering in the fading light. Lan's unexpected words, heavy with emotion, draw a warm smile to my lips. Zarina echoes his sentiment, her voice a fragile whisper. "Death doesn't scare me Zarina," I reply, my voice firm. "Not while I have the strength to defy it. Rest now, my friend. Your sleep well be but a moment."

The light fades from Zarina's eyes, but before fear can take root I unleash the prepared spell, tearing open the void and pulling her back, alive, into my arms.

"Let's not have to do that again," I laugh, nearly crying with relief. "Here, let's get you properly patched up.  Heal !" I follow up with a casting from the rod of seven parts.

"I don't think we're in any condition to seek more battle today. We have three of our four tokens, we can Let's hole up here and rest until tomorrow. We can sort through the equipment we've claimed and restore our strength. Nobody is to touch  that !" I nearly spit at the Hand of Vecna and pointing at it with my sword. "I don't think destroying it is within our power and I'm not sure we'd like the attention it might bring if we did. Perhaps we can give it to Manzorian for safekeeping or find a volcano to throw it into. I'm certainly not giving it to Lashonna!"

Carefully, without touching it, I wrap the hand in a bedroll and place it at the very bottom of my pack. Assuming everyone else agrees, I erect a Celestial Fortress for shelter, and cast some restorations to rethicken our blood, along with regular healing.
DrK
Its a touching scene as Zarina slumps into Mirriana's ams before a few moments later her eyes flutter open weakly before with a flare of yellow light the Rod of Seven parts heals her and Zarina sits bolt upright, her body now healed fully and the most recent scars slipping off her face and arms like faint white  flecks of dust. She looks at Mirriana and offers a wordless hug before rising and looking about the isle of Tilagos and nods as Mirriana conceals the arm in her pack.   "A nasty thing. I am sure the high Temple of the Lightning Lord in Greyhawk would be able to deal with it, I think it would be unwise for any of us to use such a thing."   

As the glowing white gold walls and turret grows out of the ground behind her she looks at the others with a smile,   "If my family or my friends from the guild could see e they would be shocked at how much time we spend sleeping, although we need the rest after those..."    she adds the last as she gestures at the gleaming building.   "I could do with some food and some rest, that was a harrowing battle"   she finishes. Bringing in the various potions, belts, gloves and boots he looks at the various things and picks up the small quicksilver slippers and glowing red hot falchion.   "I would have some use of these if no-one would object?"   she asks.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Zarina will ask if she can take the Quicksilver slippers and the flaming burst falchion
She could use the gloves now, but I like the magic missile gloves so will wait till merging becomes an option.
 


The afternoon passes in peace as Zarina spends much of it on the turret top practicing with her new sword and also just watching the scenery an wild woods of the Tilagos demi-plane. As the nigh falls and the curtain of stars draws across the heavens bathing everything in diffuse star light she'll join the others and have a good night rest. Its a night rest disturbed only twice by the entire fortress rocking and a deep rumble. One that Lan is intimately familiar with as bulettes. Or in this case he would estimate bulettes of gargantuan size (like most wildlife in this place). However, although as the morning light shows the tracks in the soil the beasts circled the tower there is no further trouble.

In the morning as the part prepares spells, meditates and binds new vestiges to face the day the weather is dark and stormy, sheets of rain hammering down from the dark grey clouds soaking everyone to the skin in seconds and drumming on Mirriana's celestial tower as you all eat and drink your morning fare. Zarina looks to Lan with a grimace,   "Everything is an extreme on this island. form the animals o the weather."   she shakes her haad sadly before retiring to her chamber to study her spell book and prepare for the day ahead.  Once ready she'll gaze out through the driving rain look to where the distant mountain was, brushig a sopping strand of hair from her face she'll nod,   shall we start walking that way, its only a few miles?   
 In effect its a -4 on perception tests and ranged attack rolls 
 
 Spoiler: Daily Spells 


Greater Luminous Armour  (1d4)[ 1 ]  Str dam, with Wand Lesser Restore  (3d4)[ 4 ][ 2 ][ 1 ](7)  as needed
Superior Resistance
Heart of Earth  (1d10)[ 1 ] 
Heart of Air
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy

Dark forces are at work indeed, Kyuss channels the worst aspects of Wee-Jas, Vecna -who has no better aspects- and Erythnul. Makavoy is faithful to Wee-Jas, and understands the goddess will. Erythnul is primitive, not much to read there. And to combat the worst of Vecna, he needs an ally who knows Vecna like few others know him.

He decides his binds, elated to let Zceryll's influence go.

He Draws the symbol of the Green Lady and commences the ritual:  
 Spoiler: OoC 
 (1d20+12)[ 32 ]  vs DC 17
 


His eyes become emeralds and the Beauty of the Green Lady overcomes him.

He then draws a more obscure symbol, the symbol of Acererak and places a gem in the center, trying to bind the Lich who once wanted to become Vecna. Makavoy wants to exploit Acererak, and he supresses one of the Vestiges's power to gain more arcane power himself.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
 (1d20+13)[ 24 ]  vs DC 25 Supressing Detect undead for a 6th level slot
 


He binds the Lich, but his influence overcomes him. He will seize any opportunity to fill a power void!
When he smiles, a shining gem can be seen where one of his tooth was.

He then proceeds to cast the rest of his protections from the Staff

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Casting Primal Instincts and primal Hunter
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  
  Day before  

As the time of impending doom approached, Lan paced restlessly, always near Mirrana and Zarina, but never intruding on their personal space.  When Zarina's body finally shuddered and fell still, he turned away, closing is eyes that would otherwise be glistening with tears.  Instead, he found himself murmuring to the god above, praying Mirrana's magic was swift and accurate.  He sent his thoughts to the goddess of the halflings as well, beseeching them to help Mystra guide Mirr's efforts.

After a few moments, he heard a gasp of inhaled air, and spun around to see Zarina hugging Mirr tightly.  With the warrior mage back, Lan sighed quietly to himself, then wander off to scout the parameter.  Once his check was complete, he returned to join the others in the shelter Mirrana summoned.  Inside, he slept fitfully, before finally rising and heading to the top to join Zarina and take his turn on watch.

  The next day  

When the group arose the next day, Lan joined them dripping wet, not commenting on anything he saw or heard the night before.  When asked, he grunted something about the weird, magical weather, but other than that focused on eating.  Once he was finished, he leaned back and picked in between two of his teeth with a small piece of thin wood.

 "So four trials, and we did one and those bastiches did two?  Now we gotta fight some vale nightmare.  Anyone got anything that might help, or do we just hurry up and get there?  There was one guy I 'member seein' on th'boat that wasn't with the dude with the hand.  Might be our big, bad villain had some back-up plans.  Either way, we should get moving.

Oh, and can someone take care of this bleeding from the eyes?  I'm feeling a little low in the blood department." 

 
  OOC : Ready to scout ahead ...
  Listen  - (1d20+19)[ 20 ] 
  Spot  - (1d20+19)[ 23 ] 
  Search  - (1d20+20)[ 34 ] 
 Effects :  -5 Con (Blood to Water) ; Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 95 / (95) 125 AC: 23 Touch/Flatfooted: 18/17 Move 30' Initiative +8
F +18 (+16) R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow, embrace the wild, hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter, deeper darkvision
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +1 Comp shortbow (+23, 1d6+2 / +24, 1d6+3 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Travel devotion: 1/1
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5, 2x Cure Serious Wounds, 1x potion non-detection, 1x potion undetectable alignment, 1x potion of haste, 1 belt of dwarvenkind (+4 Con)
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14 Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "I don't care how many times I've done it, I hate sleeping in my armor. Well...that and the mud. Had enough mud to last a life time."   Donal says in the morning, well-rested after sleeping in the magical mansion. Over breakfast he brings up tactics.   "I noticed during the fight yesterday that the dark one took out many of your wardings."   He says, nibbling on a biscuit.   "No disrespect to your gods..."   He says and nods to Mirriana,   "but my god Tempus is a tough old bastard, like me, and my wardings stick around. If you like, I can see to your armaments, sharpen their edge and toughen their hide."  

He waves his hand across the table.   "That goes for everyone. We need every edge we can muster on days like these, and his blessings are better spent on your blades than going unused."  
 
 Spoiler 
Donal will cast the following spells on himself: Longstrider, Greater Magic Weapon (bastard sword), Magic Vestment (Shield), Superior Resistance.

He'll cast Magic Vestment on Mirriana (Armor and Shield), Makavoy (Armor), Elkist (Armor), and Lan (Armor). He'll cast Greater Magic Weapon on Elkist, Zarina, and Lan. All of his spells are at Caster Level 20.

He will also change his Chameleon bonus feat from Improved Toughness to Improved Critical (bastard sword).

Donal Ren
HP 166/166, Temp HP ?/?
AC 33 (38 vs ranged)
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 4/-]

F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Donal Spells: Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear, Temp HP)
 
DrK
With the restorative magic from the previous night the thinned blood is thankfully cured and the heroes are assembled, garbed in glowing magical armour and gleaming weapons as the rain hammers down upon them.

Following your knowledge of the Tilagos island you are able to head north west towards the peaks you had seen yesterday, though they are concealed by the clouds and driving rain. It takes about 4 hours of tramping across  the sodden bogs and heather covered moors to reach the foothills of the mountain. The massive feather you had likely started at the snow capped peak but this time you seek something in the canyons at the base.

It takes a further hour before Lan begins to spot the churned rock and soul of massive three pronged hooves of a beast that must mass several tons and be greater than 30ft in length! Split massive trees and scarred rock faces suggest scratching posts where it must sharpen tusk or rubs its flanks. Following the tracks they lead towards a narrow cleft valley that narrows over some 500ft from 200ft at its entrance to 40ft at the base of the cliff where it vanishes into a hole in the cliffs. The base of the narrow rift valley is shrouded in darkness, ground torn by massive hooves and surrounded on either side by sheer dark cliffs that average between 150ft and 200ft tall. Water hangs in the air and the cliffs offer several spots where water pours down in small water falls…

To add to the grim and foreboding experience rotting corpses and broken skeletal remains of gargantuan bulettes, a roc and mammoth sized bison paint a grim picture of the favoured diet of this beast and lend a charnel graveyard air to the scene…
DrK
      
     Zarina    


Zarina pauses at the long sloping top of the valley and looks at the scene of devastation and the rotting carcasses and half buried skeletons of giant animals in the muddy ground.   "Not the most appealing of locations. I confess to feel some minor nerves, Tilagos has been a tough place so far, the druids of old must have been powerful to contain such beasts."  . She pauses and pulls out a scale flicking it away as it shrivels into dust and scales erupt from her skin and into a thin black plate with tiny horns protruding from her crown.

Pulling out the strange flaming red gold falchion she flashes it around a few times experimentally and waits for the others to prepare spells. Tapping her haversack she looks to Lan,   "Is there any combat training that could benefit you Lan?"   she asks.

 OOC: would he (or anyone else) like a combat feat from Heroics Spell 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Cast: Dragonskin (Black)

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,  HP  125/125,  Speed 
 AC  29,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  27,  Fort  13,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
   Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20)
   MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 3x Cap( Fire, Spark, Acid), Wand Chamber (Wraithstrike): Flaming burst desert wind falchion +1 (+5) (Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead))   +23/18/13 (2d4+12 + 1d6 Fire, 18-20)
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+12 Armor, +2 Dex, +5 Natural)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 
Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Air
Heart Earth
Greater Luminous Armour
Dragonskin Black (+5 Nat AC, Acid Res 20) - 120 minutes

Donal: GMW CL20 - 20 hours
Mirriana: Heroes Feast (Immune to fear) - 24 hours

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +3 dex+2 dodge = 35



 Condition 

Morning spells
Superior Resistance  20 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Greater luminous Armour 24 hours (+12 AC)
Heart of Air (+10 jump checks, feather falling, +10ft fly speeds)
Heart of Earth (Temp HPs 28, +8 vs Bullrush etc.. - discard for stoneskin)

Mirriana: Heroes feast (Immune to fear, +1 morale to hit)
Donal: Mass resist energy 30 (110 mins)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear

Dragonskin Black (Acid 20, Nat arm +5) 120 mins


 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
[/QUOTE]
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Yeah....another graveyard."   Donal says when they pause at the valley.   "Only death waits for us here."   Following Zarina's lead he wraps himself in a few more layers of protection.   "Can't be too careful."  
 
 Spoiler 
Casting Barkskin on himself.

Donal Ren
HP 166/166, Temp HP ?/?
AC 38 (43 vs ranged)
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 4/-]

F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Donal Spells: Barkskin (200 minutes), Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear, Temp HP)
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy sneers at the carnage.
 This is not a graveyard, this is a pigsty, a dump. There's no dignity to this, just the carcasses of food and detritus. We better be alert if we don't wand our bones to litter this ground. 

He linked the minds of the group with a spell and improved his defenses and protections a little bit. 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Casting Telepathic Bond on everyone 160 minutes, and usng the Stoneskin wand on himself If the wand is arcane there's no need for a roll  (1d20+23)[ 28 ] , balancing lorecall, resist energy: sonic, and glibness,
 


Then, thinking for a second that the creature might be intelligent, he gave himself the blessing of Glibness, one never knew if there was room for some negotiation.

 Lan, I'll go and scout with you, my senses are as good as anyone's, and I rather face death sooner than waiting in the rear. 
 
 Spoiler: OoC 
   Makavoy   
male LN Illumian (Valkrau) Beguiler/Binder/AM/SS,  Level  15,  Init  8,  HP  90/90 DR 10/Adamantine   Speed 
 AC  18,  Touch  10,  Flat-footed  17,  Fort  12,  Ref  8,  Will  11,  Base Attack Bonus  7
   +2 Chainshirt ,    +1 Deathward Buckler  (+6 Armor, +2 Shield, +1 Dex, -1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 12, Con 16, Int 23, Wis 10, Cha 16
 Condition 
-Glibness 160 Minutes
-Listeing Lorecal: 160 minutes +5 to listen, 30 blindsight.
-Stoneskin: 100 minutes
-Telepathic bond: 160 minutes
-Resist Energy: Sonic 30
-Immune to Cold and Electricity
-Resistance to Fire 5 (5 to cold and elec too)
-Bound to Green Lady (+2 charisma, Nerveskitter 1/5 rounds)
-Bound to Acererak
-Primal Insticnts, Primal Hunter +5 initiative, Uncanny Dodge.
-Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear, Temp HP)
 
DrK
The anima mage and the halfling scout ahead through the fetid valley of massive skeletal corpses and mud and rocks approaching the entrance to the cave, the cave opening is massive, some 40ft wide and 30ft high and opens into a dark tunnel that smells strongly of rotting flesh. Heading inwards the darkness is intense...

 OOC: What options for seeing in the Dark do Mahkavoy and Lan have? 

The darkness grows deeper and some 60ft from the entrance is almost totally black where the tunnel turns to the right and vanishes around the corner (although without light or darkvision you'll be hard pressed to see more). Near the entrance the three warrior woman (Elkist, Zarina and Mirriana) continue to shed holy light down the corridor from their luminous armour and celestial brilliance...
Auranghzeb
Before walking into the darkness, Makavoy casts another spell of minor duration making his features rat-like and his figure hunches like a shrew in the shadows and then suppressed the light coming out of his gloves.

Darl-Qethos' robe proves worth its name, giving him dark vision all around. He confidently walks into the darkness.
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Everyone stay sharp, whatever this beast is it seems formidable," I say, casting  Mass Shield of Faith  on my companions. I stay close to Elkist and Donal, forming a phalanx with our shields.
DrK
Donal, Elkist and Mirriana form a solid wall of steel with Zarina standing on the flank beside Elkist, the glowing flaming blade and her luminous armour joining with the light of Elkist's celestial brilliance casting golden shadows on the walls of the cave, where worryingly scrapes and marks marr the roof the tunnel some 30ft above your heads. Mahkavoy and Lan creep forward to the corner some 60ft into the cave and then as they peer around the corner they can see a cavern beyond, a hollowed out semi spherical space some 90ft in diameter. The beast crouches in a hollowed out basin, a vast muscular mass with hints of elephant boar and nightmarish creature of death...

 

Even more worrying as the mage and scout crouch at the corner and see the massive 30ft long monster weighing in at several tons its voice echoes in their minds...   "More little creatures... more little beasts to come my way and see to slay Harrowdroth... Harrowdroth shall consume you."   the beast grunts, a cloud of steam leeching from its form as it projected words echo in the halfling and the wizard's mind.
Auranghzeb
The foul air of the cave was suffocating and claustrophobic enough without the mental interruption of Harrowdroth. The robe of eyes gave Makavoy a precise image of the boarish beast, not a pleasant one. He needed to be quick and witty, not give the telepathic foe an opportunity to seize the tactical advantage while at the same time taking measure of the cave and the possibilities.

 Taking a huge risk Makavoy tried to talk with it.

  Oh, great Harrowdroth! We are not here to challenge you but to negotiate. You are a legend in might and power and we wish to learn your secrets and offer you our service.    
 
 Spoiler: OoC 
 (1d20+53)[ 67 ] 
 
DrK
At Mahkavoy's response the massive beast slowly lumbers to its feet, beady glowing red murderous eyes peering through the cavern. Its loud voice bellow echoes in Lan and Mahkavoy's minds.  "Small things.. two legs.. I hunger. if you wish to learn one of you must be my food. I hunger!"  his tusks (both of which gleam in the dim light and you know you need one of them)  gesture between you, clearly uncaring which of you he eats.

Further back in the cave the shield wall or glowing warrior woman (and Donal) can see Mahakavoy and Lan conversing with 'something' around the corner
Auranghzeb
Makavoy had to push the advantage. Maybe Lan would warn the others. But he didn’t know, and Acererak’s influence made him more and more secure of his intellectual superiority over the Beast he raised his voice making it pompous and flamboyant:

 Harrowdroth, that of the endless hunger, devourer of gods! Neither of us would make a dent in your appetite, but we have brought tributes for your grace! A feast for you that you will never forget! Believe me, the most tender meat served on a sacred platter! Come further and let us lead you!  
 
 Spoiler: Bluff 
  (1d20+53)[ 62 ] 
 
DrK
The light brightens as behind Lan and Mahkavoy the shield wall arrives at the corner. the massive nightmare beast slowly rises to its feet and begins to shuffle forwards on its mud smeared hooves towards the party. Recahing some 40ft away from the party before it pauses once more, eyeing you all with some suspicion.
Its bleary gleaming red eyes, each the size of Lan's chest, stare at the glowing woman and the men. The creatures thought projection blasts out into all of your minds with the force of a dozen trumpets.  "I eat now. We talk later... choose fattest, I eat fresh meat then talk more..."  it scream into your minds.
DrK
      
     Zarina    


Zarina pauses as the massive nightmare beast wobbles into view as she reaches the corner, the light from her armour and the flickering orange glow from her blade filling the filthy dank cave, although it flickers intriguing off metallic objects near some old half eaten corpses or in large piles of dried disgusting dung.  Be wary my friends. This beast is ancient for a nightmare beast, its massive. They have powerful evocation magics and some can summon fiendish beasts from the abyss. Their tusks are sharp and infused with negative power that may drain our lives..." 
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,  HP  125/125,  Speed 
 AC  29,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  27,  Fort  13,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
   Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20)
   MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 3x Cap( Fire, Spark, Acid), Wand Chamber (Wraithstrike): Flaming burst desert wind falchion +1 (+5) (Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead))   +23/18/13 (2d4+12 + 1d6 Fire, 18-20)
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+12 Armor, +2 Dex, +5 Natural)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Air
Heart Earth
Greater Luminous Armour
Shield - 25 remaining / 28 mins
Dragonskin Black (+5 Nat AC, Acid Res 20) - 120 minutes

Donal: GMW CL20 - 20 hours
Mirriana: Heroes Feast (Immune to fear) - 24 hours

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +3 dex + 5 natural = 38


 Abilities 
[Active] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Inactive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "If it's a treat you'd like, I'm fresh."   Donal says, taking a step forward with his shield and sword ready.   "A spell to enhance the flavor."   He says before casting another warding.

 
 Spoiler 
Cast Shield of Faith, will try and Bluff the beast into thinking it's a 'flavor enhancer' spell. 😛

Bluff  (1d20+8)[ 19 ] 

Donal Ren
HP 166/166, Temp HP ?/?
AC 43 (48 vs ranged)
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 4/-]

F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Donal Spells: Shield of Faith (20 minutes), Barkskin (200 minutes), Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear, Temp HP)
 
DrK
As Donal begins casting his spell the massive multi-ton nightmare pig rears up, slamming onto the floor with bone crushing force as the ground trembles and pebbles rain down from the ceiling with a clattering sound all around the heroes. There is a squeal of  "No magics"  in all of your minds. It then backs off to some 70ft distant, snorting and pawing the ground as more magic plays around its tusksbefore crackling lightning pours from the pair of tusks and rushes over the party in a wave of crackling energy! Even as the chain lightning abates a single beam of green pale light pulses from the beast's snout striking down the 'liar' of Mahkavoy...



 OOC

Big Pig wins the Initiative. From 30ft away from the party it release a quickened chain lightning and then a disintegrate

Swift: Chain lightning vs Donal  (17d6)[ 54 ]  Electricity Reflex DC 23 for half
 ---- ALL others Half damage; Reflex DC 23 for quarter

Standard: Disintegrate vs Makhavoy: Touch attack  (1d20+25)[ 34 ]   (34d6)[ 127 ]  Fort DC 23 for  (5d6)[ 18 ] 
 
Auranghzeb
Donal goes too far in the ruse and the beast unleashes destructive magic before any of the party can do anything about it. The lighting bolt fizzles through Makavoy's body, made impervious by Acererak's Lich powers. But as the arrogant mage turns around with a smirk he is it with an unmistakable green ray right in the chest! Makavoy's eyes open wide like plates as every single fiber of his body is shaken by the transmutative effect, trying to rip his essence into fine dust. He barely avoids a certain death. He was expecting a foul bestial foe, but not a being of this immense arcane power!


As he moves back towards the others he shrugs and quips trying to shake the fear with taunting words


 I guess we'll have to roast you slowly under hot sand!
 

And picking up gravel from the cavern floor, he transmutes the ceiling of the cave right above the creature into sand causing tons of stone to become sand and topple over the beast! Then he moves away and around the bend.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
 Standard:   Transmute Stone to Sand:  Up to two 10' per level that would be UP to 32 10' cubes. i only want enough to collapse the ceiling above the creature and 20' around it: i.e If it's Huge I want 8 10' of stone to collapse over it.
REF DC for Half damage 21  (8d6)[ 29 ]  Bludgeon Damage.  The creature is 5' deep in sand.

 Movement  30' away and if possible, around the bend.

 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  
  Prior to the hunt …  

Lan shrugged at the mage.  He could appreciate the man’s desire to face the danger head on with eyes wide open, but that didn’t mean the halfling wanted to court death right away.   "Follow if you want, just keep quiet and out of sight.  And none of this running off to study the ‘glorious, amazing wonders’ of our prey.  We’re here to kill it and bring back proof." 

With the warning given, Lan called upon a few spells to help his senses before accepting Zarina’s offer of training.  Then moved to take the lead as silently as he could manage.

  In the Lair of the Beast …  

As he starred at the huge creature, Lan could feel death on the wind.  A chill that had nothing to do with the weather crept to the base of his spine as it ‘spoke’ to them both, clearly demonstrating the element of surprise was gone.  Lan pulled free his bow slowly, and thanks to Mir’s feast, any fear washed over him without setting into his bones. While the javelins were normally his preferred weapon, he had an inkling he might need the added enchantments of his bow.  With a grim smile he eyed the beast as the mage traded ‘words’ with it, knowing soon enough the battle would be on.

Unfortunately the beast initiated conflict, clearly a veteran of many battles.  Lan gritted his teeth at the pain of the arcing electricity but suddenly smiled.  It was a spellcaster … calling upon the speed of the restless traveller, he darted past to fire several arrows towards the Nightmare.

 
  OOC : Before scouting, Lan casts deeper darkvision and embrace the wild.

 Round 1 : Swift to activate travel devotion and move 30’ (staying w/in 30’); full attack with rapid shot, improved rapid shot, PBS, imp skirmish

  Att 1  - (1d20+29)[ 31 ] ,   Damage  - (1d6+7)[ 11 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 21 ] = 32 
  Att 2  - (1d20+24)[ 39 ] ,   Damage  - (1d6+7)[ 12 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 17 ] = 29 
  Att 3  - (1d20+19)[ 26 ] ,   Damage  - (1d6+7)[ 13 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 17 ] = 30 
  RS  - (1d20+29)[ 33 ] ,   Damage  - (1d6+7)[ 11 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 12 ] = 23 
 Effects : improved rapid shot (Zarina feat); embrace the wild (+2 listen/spot, 30’ blindsense; 70min); deeper darkvision (90’ DV; 7hrs); greater magic weapon (+5 enh to bow; 20 hrs); magic vestment (+5 AB to shirt; 20hrs); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 106 / 125 AC: 27 Touch/Flatfooted: 18/16 (18/20) Move 30' Initiative +8
F +18  R +22  W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2: fell the greatest foes, invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +5 Comp shortbow (+27, 1d6+6 / +28, 1d6+7 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Travel devotion: 1/1
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5, 2x Cure Serious Wounds, 1x potion non-detection, 1x potion undetectable alignment, 1x potion of haste, 1 belt of dwarvenkind (+4 Con)
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14 Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 

The electricity passes right where Donal was a half-moment ago before stepping out of the way.   "Hit and run. Not a favorable match up."   Donal says to himself as he advances towards the beast.   "Anything you can do to slow it down or imprison it would be great!"   He says over his shoulder. Not wanting to get too far away from his allies, he readies his shield to absorb the beast's charge.

 
 Spoiler 
Move action: Move forward 30ft.
Standard action: Total Defense.

Donal Ren
HP 166/166, Temp HP ?/?
AC 43 (48 vs ranged) [AC is boosted by Total Defense to 47, 52 vs Ranged]
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 4/-]

F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Donal Spells: Shield of Faith (20 minutes), Barkskin (200 minutes), Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear, Temp HP)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Lightning crackles about but Elkist grits her teeth and holds, moving with the line.  "I can hamper the beast. Give the word if you're going in close and prefer to move swiftly." 

Elkist invokes the spirits of earth as she grips her spear and her symbol of faith. As she does the ground in the cavern ahead cracks and ripples, the rocks churning and roiling underfoot.

 
 Spoiler: actions 

 Swift:  Heart of Earth -&gt; Stoneskin
 Move:  Draw +1 longspear, advance the ShieldWall!
 Standard:  Cast Impeding Stones to hamper any charge or retreat for the beast. She will Dismiss the spell if instructed


 40ft radius. Any creature who fails its Reflex save is knocked prone. Those who remain standing can move at only half normal speed. Each round on your turn, standing creatures must make either a new Reflex save or a Balance check (their choice) to remain upright.

Any attempt at spellcasting requires a Concentration check (DC 15 + spell level), and any attacks made from within the area take a -2 penalty; this does not stack with the penalty for attacking while prone if the attacker failed his save. 
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
tbc
 

 
 
  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina dives sideways as the lightning flashes over her, much of the bolts crackling around the Ring of the Wind dukes gathered about on her finger. She looks up, rage flaring her dark green eyes,  "Well, we can fight fight with fire now."   she utters as she strides forward, flames erupting around her and the fullblade before the ring flares into life and a massive blast of electrical power washes over the trapped beast.

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Swift: Mystic phoenix stance (sacrificing spell theft)
Move: 30ft closer
Standard: Chain lighting from Ring (2 charges)  (17d6)[ 44 ]  electricity Spell resistance  (1d20+17)[ 29 ]   Ref DC 21 for half

   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,  HP  112/125,  Speed 
 AC  29,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  27,  Fort  13,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
   Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20)
   MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 3x Cap( Fire, Spark, Acid), Wand Chamber (Wraithstrike): Flaming burst desert wind falchion +1 (+5) (Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead))   +23/18/13 (2d4+12 + 1d6 Fire, 18-20)
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+12 Armor, +2 Dex, +5 Natural)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Air
Heart Earth
Greater Luminous Armour
Shield - 25 remaining / 28 mins
Dragonskin Black (+5 Nat AC, Acid Res 20) - 120 minutes

Donal: GMW CL20 - 20 hours
Mirriana: Heroes Feast (Immune to fear) - 24 hours

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +3 dex + 5 natural +2 dodge = 40


 Abilities 
[InActive] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Active] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil) - DR 10/EVIL
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
 Miriana 
I move forward as one with the shield line, casting my aura of protection over my teammates. The lighting arcs through my shield and up my arm, but I grit my teeth and bear it.

"You want it immobile? Well try this!  Constricting Chains " I cast, gesturing at the nightmare beast with my sword as scintillating heavenly chains leap out of the ground to bind it.

 
 Spoiler 
Protection Devotion, +5 sacred to AC within 30ft

Guilty Transformation -&gt; Constricting Chains. No SR, No Save.
The creature is entangled, taking a -2 penalty on attack rolls and a -4 penalty to effective Dexterity.
Moreover, the chains are anchored to the nearest immobile object (usually the floor), preventing the bound creature from moving.
An entangled creature attempting to cast a spell must succeed on a Concentration check (DC 15 + spell level) or lose the spell.
The chains automatically constrict the bound creature for  (3d6)[ 14 ]  points of nonlethal damage per round.
The constricting chains have AC 20, 70hp, and damage reduction 10/magic.
They are immune to energy-based attacks, nonlethal damage, and all spells except dispel magic and similar effects.
They are not subject to critical hits.
Half of all damage dealt to the chains (rounded down) is transferred to the target.
A successful DC 32 Strength check breaks the chains and ends the spell.
An entangled creature can also attempt to escape (requiring 1 minute) with a DC 40 Escape Artist check.
Sacrifice: 10gp and  (1d2)[ 1 ]  strength drain.

Manoeuvre not prepared next round (round 2):  (1d5)[ 5 ]  - White Raven Tactics
 
DrK
Even as the thin ray of disintergration strikes out at the party (narrowly avoided by Mahkavoy) and lightning flow over the party the heroes of the Greyhawk arena (and friends) leap into action. Donal, Mirriana, Elkist and Zarina all stride forward maintaining the shield wall closing to some 40ft from the pig (advancing ~30ft to keep pace). As that happens Mahkavoy scurried backwards to the corner throwing a handful of ravel that brings the roof down upon the massive boar like beast of nightmare covering it in rock and sand. Even as that happens the rocks themselves grow sharp spikes and it topples over as the ground shakes under Elkists's commands. Lightning washes over it as Zarina commands the fury of the Vaati before massive glowing chains of energy emerge and pin it down from Mirriana's strength of will alone though her face glisten's with sweat from the effort.  Behind the shieldwall Lan flanks out a flurry of javelins zipping towards it, two being deflected by the beasts' massive muscular frame and inches thck leathery hide, one striking a glancing blow the other sinking deep.


The beast bellows a massive roar as the javelins and lightning hit it then screams in rage as earth, stones and chains seek tp pin it down and bellows loudly before a huge cloud of roiling smoke shot through with white-hot embers engulfs the shield wall!. A massive  "I SHALL NOT BE CONTAINED"  echoes in all your minds before the creature seems to fall through the floor in a flicker of purple light before appearing with a crash (30ft) behind the shield wall and a scant 10ft from where Mahkavoy had darted back around the corner.
 
Standard:  Incendiary cloud   (4d6)[ 10 ]  FIRE Ref DC 25 for half and trapped in a fog cloud

Swift: Quickened dimension door


 
 
 Spoiler: Nightmare HPs 
63
 
Auranghzeb
 Not good, not good. In Suel we like our swine stupid! 


He pointed at the beast from another dimension, convinced of his companion's ability to bring down the creature by might and strength if they could stop it from using arcane powers.


Then he moved back into the cave and used his anklets to teleport putting the shield wall between himself and the pig.


 
 Spoiler: OoC 
 Standard:  Feeblemind, Will DC 21. Creatures that can cast spells take a -4 penalty on the save (I guess this doesn't matter, but still, just in case). The subject's intelligence and charisma becomes 1.

Spell Resistance check:  (1d20+16)[ 21 ] 
 Move  move to find an angle to teleport as  swift action  behind the shield wall.
 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "That stings!"   Donal says as the cloud scorches him.   "But it's not hot enough to stop us."   He electrifies his sword and waves it through the fog, trying to find a path towards the beast. Eventually he stumbles out of the cloud and sees it and a few more steps finally brings it within reach of his blade.

 
 Spoiler 
Failed his reflex save vs the Incendiary Cloud, he takes 10 fire damage.

Swift: Activate Bracers of Lightning
Move: Move through the cloud and adjacent to the Beast. His last 10 feet of movement will likely provoke an Attack of Opportunity from the beast.
Standard: Single attack.

Attack  (1d20+31)[ 47 ] 
Damage  (1d10+20)[ 22 ] 
 (1d6)[ 2 ]  Electricity Damage
 (1d6)[ 1 ]  Fire Damage



Donal Ren
HP 156/166
AC (melee) 48
AC (ranged) 53
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 4/-]

F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Donal Spells: Shield of Faith (20 minutes), Barkskin (200 minutes), Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear), Protection Devotion within 30ft of Miriana (+5 Sacred AC)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I manage to get my shield between myself and the source of the flames, emerging unscathed alongside Donal.

"Assay spell resistance!"
"Quickened Storm of Shards!"

I cast in quick succession.
 
 Spoiler 
Quickened Assay spell resistance.

Sunbeam -&gt;Storm of shards:
Sacrifice  (1d3)[ 3 ]  STR drain.
Spell resistance  (1d20+24)[ 37 ] 
FORT DC22 or permanently blinded.
 (14d6)[ 57 ]  divine damage Reflex DC22 for half (doesn't negate blinded).
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist advances alongside Mirriana and Donal, spear at the level as she nears the great beast.

 
 Spoiler: actions 

 Swift:  Law Devotion +5 Attack
 Move:  Advance !
 Standard:  Cast Bite of the Weretiger
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
tbc
 

 
 
  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Cough and spluttering Zarina emerges form the flaming cloud trialing smoke and her dress covered in soot and scorch marks. Looking at the beast shse strides forwards, teeth sharpening and fingers extending into claws as she lopes with accelerating feline grace as time seems to slow down for her and her allies as she hastens them!
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Ref vs the Fire  (1d20+17)[ 35 ] 

Swift: Circlet of mages for Quickened Haste on everyone
Standard: Bite of the weretiger
Move: to the creature AoO vs her  (1d20+30)[ 41 ]  dam  (2d10+11)[ 17 ] 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,  HP  112/125,  Speed 
 AC  29,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  27,  Fort  13,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
   Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20)
   MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 3x Cap( Fire, Spark, Acid), Wand Chamber (Wraithstrike): Flaming burst desert wind falchion +1 (+5) (Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead))   +23/18/13 (2d4+12 + 1d6 Fire, 18-20)
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+12 Armor, +2 Dex, +5 Natural)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Air
Heart Earth
Greater Luminous Armour
Shield - 25 remaining / 28 mins
Dragonskin Black (+5 Nat AC, Acid Res 20) - 120 minutes

Donal: GMW CL20 - 20 hours
Mirriana: Heroes Feast (Immune to fear) - 24 hours

Haste - 12 rounds
Bite of the Weretiger (+12 Str (+6 after items), +6 Con (+4 after items), +4 dex, +5 Nat AC, claws)

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +3 dex + 10 natural +2 dodge +1 haste +2 tiger Dex = 48


 Abilities 
[InActive] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Active] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil) - DR 10/EVIL
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
The massively tusked nightmare beast confronted by the three mortals staggers to its feet ignoring the attacks from Donal, Elkist and Zarina's weapons! All three heroes had emerged trailing smoke followed by Mirriana who opens up her hand releasing a savage stream of diamonds that flense the creature. Rearing up on its piggy hooves it savagely lashes out with a heavy bite towards the paladin beforebacking up slightly and breathing a great cone of fire over Donal, Zarina and Mirriana

 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Rolled real dice for saves! Not blinded but takes all the damage
Stand up provoking AOOs from Donal
Bite Elkist  (1d20+32)[ 46 ]  dam  (2d8+9)[ 20 ]  and 2 energy drain
Quickened cone of fire  (15d6)[ 52 ]  FIRE vs Zarina, Donal and Mirriana Ref DC 22 for half
 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 

Wincing as the fire washes over him and his allies, Donal motions with his sword.   "There!"   He points.   "And there! Let's surround the bastard!"   The mercenary takes a quick step away from his allies before laying into the beast with his sword.

 
 Spoiler 
Reflex save vs Cone of Fire DC 22
 (1d20+16)[ 34 ] 

5ft Step: Move away from the other characters while staying adjacent to the beast. Trying to setup flanking for next turn.
Swift: Activate bracers of lightning
Full-Round: Full Attack

Attack  (1d20+32)[ 47 ] 
 (1d10+20)[ 26 ]  Damage
 (1d6)[ 6 ]  Electricity damage
 (1d6)[ 3 ]  Fire damage

Attack   (1d20+32)[ 51 ] 
 (1d10+20)[ 28 ]  Damage
 (1d6)[ 3 ]  Electricity damage
 (1d6)[ 3 ]  Fire damage

Attack   (1d20+27)[ 37 ] 
 (1d10+20)[ 27 ]  Damage
 (1d6)[ 3 ]  Electricity damage
 (1d6)[ 4 ]  Fire damage

Attack   (1d20+22)[ 37 ] 
 (1d10+20)[ 21 ]  Damage
 (1d6)[ 2 ]  Electricity damage
 (1d6)[ 6 ]  Fire damage

Donal Ren
HP 156/166
AC (melee) 49
AC (ranged) 54
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 4/-]

F/R/W: +23/+16/+20

Donal Spells: Shield of Faith (20 minutes), Barkskin (200 minutes), Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear), Protection Devotion within 30ft of Miriana (+5 Sacred AC), Haste (+1 Attack, AC, Ref; +30ft speed; extra attack on full attack)
 
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Lan assessed the situation, eyes seeking out and weaknesses in the beast’s armor.  Knowing they needed to make their hits count, he darted swiftly towards Zarina, cast a spell with a gentle brush against her hand, then retreated back, whispering over the mind link,   This’ll turn his size against him …   

With that done, raised his bow and moved across the field, his form a blur, as he fired several more arrows at the demonic beast.

 
  OOC : Sorry for the delay!

 Round 2 : move 60’ as swift, cast fell the greatest foe on Zarina, then move back to the creature’s otherwise (away from the group).  Should add a decent amount per melee attack!

 Round 3 : swift move 30-60’, end w/in 30’, full hasted attack vs war pig

  Att 1  - (1d20+30)[ 33 ] ,   Damage  - (1d6+7)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 25 ] = 38 
  Att 2  - (1d20+25)[ 30 ] ,   Damage  - (1d6+7)[ 9 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 24 ] = 37 
  Att 3  - (1d20+20)[ 37 ] ,   Damage  - (1d6+7)[ 10 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 23 ] = 37 
  Rapid shot  - (1d20+30)[ 41 ] ,   Damage  - (1d6+7)[ 11 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 28 ] = 43 
  Haste  - (1d20+30)[ 48 ] ,   Damage  - (1d6+7)[ 8 ] +  Skirmish  - (6d6)[ 25 ] = 37 
*added +4 damge to the hits

 Effects : fell the greatest foe (+1d6 melee damage / size diff; 10 rounds); haste (+1 att/Ref/AC, add 30’ move, extra attack w/full; 11 rounds); travel devotion (as a swift action, move up to max speed; 7 rounds); improved rapid shot (Zarina feat); embrace the wild (+2 listen/spot, 30’ blindsense; 110 min); deeper darkvision (90’ DV; 11 hrs); greater magic weapon (+5 enh to bow; 20 hrs); magic vestment (+5 AB to shirt; 20hrs); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 106 / 125 AC: 27 (34) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/16 (25/27) Move 60' Initiative +8
F +18  R +22 (+23) W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2:  fell the greatest foes , invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +5 Comp shortbow (+27, 1d6+6 / +28, 1d6+7 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Travel devotion: 1/1
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5, 2x Cure Serious Wounds, 1x potion non-detection, 1x potion undetectable alignment, 1x potion of haste, 1 belt of dwarvenkind (+4 Con)
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14 Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
Auranghzeb
Acererak's pride filled Makavoy... this brute swine that passed itself as a spellcaster could not really be seriously attacking us?


Overwhelmed by the legendary Lich's pride, The Sand Mage Suppressed the presence of the Green Lady to transform one of his spells into a reach range and gently brushed the beast's hind leg with arcane power trying to sap the mighty boar's mind!

 
 There you Imbecile swine! I order you to behave!  
 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Standard: Vestigial Magic to cast touch of idoicy as a reach spell (a ray)
Attack vs touch  (1d20+11)[ 12 ]  Penalty to Int, Cha Wis  (1d6)[ 5 ] 
Spell penetration if it matters  (1d20+16)[ 36 ] 

Move: move back 20'
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist stabs at the beast as it's jaws close on her, holding firm as she braces her spear trying to penetrate its thick hide. She grunts blood running freely down her leg as she shakes free the monstrosity sapping some of her resolve.

 
 Spoiler: actions 

 Swift: 
 Full:  Longspear  (1d20+21)[ 25 ]  (+12 base, +3 str, +1 weapon, +1 haste, -2 energy drain, +6 weretiger) damage  (1d8+13)[ 15 ] 
Longspear  (1d20+16)[ 24 ]  (+7 base, +3 str, +1 weapon, +1 haste, -2 energy drain, +6 weretiger) damage  (1d8+13)[ 16 ] 
Longspear  (1d20+11)[ 13 ]  (+2 base, +3 str, +1 weapon, +1 haste, -2 energy drain, +6 weretiger) damage  (1d8+13)[ 18 ] 
Longspear  (1d20+21)[ 34 ]  (+12 base, +3 str, +1 weapon, +1 haste, -2 energy drain, +6 weretiger) damage  (1d8+13)[ 15 ] 

Oof! Average roll = 7

Energy drain sucks - no save!
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 

   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  7,  HP  90/105,  DR  DR10/ admantine,  Speed  30ft
 AC  30,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  28,  Fort  21,  Ref  18,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch, Magical Weapon+5 Lightning Sword   +22/ +17/ +12 (+12 base, +5 str, +5 weapon) (2d6+12 (+7 str, +5 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield (w/ Magical Vestment+5)  (+11 Armor, +7 Shield, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves
Magic Weapon +5 (Donal)
Magic Vestment +5 (Donal)
Energy Drain - 2 Negative levels

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

Bite of the Weretiger (Enhance +12 Str, +4 Dex, +6 Con, +5 natural armour)
Haste (Zarina): +1 attack, +1 dodge AC, +1 dodge Ref, +30ft enhance speed, extra attack
 

 
 
  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I can sense the cone if fire coming just in time to get myself into cover behind my shield emerging from the blast unscathed, stabbing the beast as it rises alongside Donal. I follow up with a pair of offensive spells in quick succession:

" Storm of shards! Quickened Diamond Spray! "

 
 Spoiler 

Attack of Opportunity:  (1d20+12)[ 28 ]  damage  (1d8+4)[ 8 ] 

Summon Monster VII -&gt; Storm of Shards
Spell Resistance  (1d20+24)[ 40 ] 
Damage: (14d6)[ 40 ]  Reflex DC22 for half
Fort DC22 or permanently blinded
Sacrifice  (1d3)[ 3 ]  strength drain

Diamond Spray
Spell Resistance  (1d20+24)[ 30 ] 
Damage: (10d6)[ 42 ]  Reflex DC22 for half
Dazzled for  (2d6)[ 4 ]  rounds no save
Sacrifice 100gp
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina comes out the fire trailing smoke. With a grim face she snapped out the blade and her own blade ignited with white fire as with a nod to Lan she stepped in swinging hard and fast with devastating strikes
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


AoO  (1d20+30)[ 34 ]  dam  (2d4+19)[ 23 ]  +  (1d6)[ 5 ]  fire  (4d6)[ 10 ]  Find the gap

5ft Step
Swift: searing strike
Full attack w/PA2

 (1d20+28)[ 44 ]  dam  (2d4+25)[ 30 ]  +  (4d6+9)[ 21 ]  fire  (4d6)[ 17 ]  Find the gap
 (1d20+28)[ 40 ]  dam  (2d4+25)[ 29 ]  +  (4d6+9)[ 25 ]  fire  (4d6)[ 10 ]  Find the gap
 (1d20+23)[ 42 ]  dam  (2d4+25)[ 30 ]  +  (4d6+9)[ 26 ]  fire  (4d6)[ 19 ]  Find the gap
 (1d20+18)[ 19 ]  dam  (2d4+25)[ 30 ]  +  (4d6+9)[ 17 ]  fire  (4d6)[ 14 ]  Find the gap


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,  HP  112/125,  Speed 
 AC  29,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  27,  Fort  13,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
   Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20)
   MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 3x Cap( Fire, Spark, Acid), Wand Chamber (Wraithstrike): Flaming burst desert wind falchion +1 (+5) (Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead))   +23/18/13 (2d4+12 + 1d6 Fire, 18-20)
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+12 Armor, +2 Dex, +5 Natural)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Air
Heart Earth
Greater Luminous Armour
Shield - 25 remaining / 28 mins
Dragonskin Black (+5 Nat AC, Acid Res 20) - 120 minutes

Donal: GMW CL20 - 20 hours
Mirriana: Heroes Feast (Immune to fear) - 24 hours

Haste - 11 rounds
Bite of the Weretiger (+12 Str (+6 after items), +6 Con (+4 after items), +4 dex, +5 Nat AC, claws) 13 rounds
Find the Gap +4d6 12 rounds

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm +8 shield +3 dex + 10 natural +2 dodge +1 haste +2 tiger Dex = 48


 Abilities 
[InActive] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[Active] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil) - DR 10/EVIL
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
Even as the party emerge from the smoke the cavern blazes with glittering white diamond light as twin sprays emerge from the priestess tearing into the pig. Even though Mahkavoy’s ray melts away from the beast the melee attacks from Donal, Zarina and Elkist is savage, all three of them powered by a slew of magics with glittering magical weapons and shining magical auras and its too much! The pig being battered to death and finally collapsing in its own blood and gore!
RCgothic
 Mirriana 
 "Restoration!"  I cast, healing my drained strength but consuming yet more precious diamond dust.

"Is everyone alright? That's the last of the trials! We can heal up and then head back to the guardians tomorrow morning."
DrK
As the creature collapses into the muddy and rocky filth on the cave floor Zarina breathes a sigh of relief.   "A nasty beast to be sure"   she says, looking at the flames and scorch marks on her tattered stout green dress that she wore under her armour.   "Thank you for the aid Lan, I had not thought I would hit under the scales until you aided me."   Looking about she approaches the beast and raises the flaming falchion an drops it down on one of the massive tusks and with a crunching noise a 2 foot long spear of ivory tusk collapses to the floor. Grimacing she hefts it up,   "Well with the golden belt of that dreadful Titan, this tusk, the feather we took from Darl Quethos and the section of bark from the Night Twist we have at least succeeded in the quest that was set by those Fey Guardians of this realm."  

As the party search around Lan does find the remains of several long dead adventurers along with a few magical trinkets such as a dark and rusted battorian greensteel scythe festooned with dread abysssal runes, a thin elven tiara bearing a fire opal, a strange hooped double monocle, a thin staff shaped like a tuning fork and pair of leather thongs with images of swirling winds upon them

 
 Spoiler: Loot 


Batorrian Greensteel Keen scythe +2
Minor circlet of Blasting
Lens of detection
Rod of Thunder and lightning
Winged Boots
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy's magic had been ineffective, he had almost been disintegrated into dust, and yet, Harrowdroth was death. The tusk retrieved, and the day saved. Acererak's influence made Makavoy severely irritated about his own incompetence in this fight, the Suel mage had to contain the words of frustrations gathering in his head.


Instead, he wore a mask of self-assurance.

  Well done Zarina, It's good to see  that you finally managed to be effective in battle. I had my doubts for a moment. Well done.
  

He said, trying to pretend.
Auranghzeb
But Acererk was not content, the lich demanded Makavoy to steal the glory, the Suel mage pressed on.


  I'ts also a good thing that I managed to paralyze the monster right before your last attack  

And he scrubbed the dust from his overcoat.

 
 Spoiler: Bluff, because I still got Glibness active 
Bluff  (1d20+53)[ 72 ] 
 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Ah, that's good!"   Donal says as he wipes the gore off his blade. He chuckles at Makavoy's boasting but sees Lan take it personal.   "Well done, everyone. Makavoy, I salute you."   He says and stands up and sketches a salute with his blade.   "I've seen doughtier warriors fall to dust from the same attack. You must be made of sterner stuff."   He walks over, placing himself in between the Illumian and the Halfling to break their line of sight to each other.   "Zarina, you've quite the skill with blade and spell. I've noticed that we follow a similar path in battle, though we've taken different routes to get there."  

He sheathes his sword and adjust some of the buckles on his plate mail.   "The best thing about winning a battle - well, the next best thing. The best thing is surviving. The next best thing is you get to tell the story of how it happened. They'll be telling the tales of these quests for years."   He looks down at the winged leather sandals.   "Do you think they'll match my plate?"  
Starbin
  Landahl Snowstrider, Halfling scout  

Once the beast fell, Lan watched for a moment before finally relaxing and joining his companions.  He nodded at Zarina’s thanks, mumbling   ”No problem …”  .  He then turned his focus to searching the cavern, finding several items of power that he handed over to Mirr and Zarina.  As he turned to search more thoroughly, the mage spoke, his accusation hanging in the air for a moment.

A murderous gleam in his eye, Lan’s hand slipped to the hilt of his Kaori resin blade.  He took a step forward when Donal stepped between them and spoke, breaking the tension for a moment.  The halfling slowly exhaled and released the hilt as he turned back into the cave.  However, over the link, he sent a thought,     For all your aid, keep a civil tongue, mage … you could still ne rotting in a cage ...    

 
  OOC : Huzzah, we won!  Guess Lan will do some more searching as we prepare to camp and rest up before returning to the druids.

  Search  - (1d20+20)[ 27 ] 
  Listen  - (1d20+21)[ 28 ] 
  Spot  - (1d20+21)[ 40 ] 
 Effects : fell the greatest foe (+1d6 melee damage / size diff; 8 rounds); haste (+1 att/Ref/AC, add 30’ move, extra attack w/full; 9 rounds); travel devotion (as a swift action, move up to max speed; 5 rounds); improved rapid shot (Zarina feat); embrace the wild (+2 listen/spot, 30’ blindsense; 110 min); deeper darkvision (90’ DV; 11 hrs); greater magic weapon (+5 enh to bow; 20 hrs); magic vestment (+5 AB to shirt; 20hrs); Heroes Feast (+1 attack/Will [morale], +8 temp hps, immune poison/fear; 24 hours); +10 Tumbling 
 
 Spoiler: Status 
HPs: 106 / 125 AC: 27 (34) Touch/Flatfooted: 18/16 (25/27) Move 60' Initiative +8
F +18  R +22 (+23) W +13 (+14)
Skills: Listen/Spot +19 Search +20 Move Silently/Hide +23 Tumble +37 D Device +23
Spells (4/6/6/4/2/2) 0: create water, guidance, mending, light
1: detect fav enemies, gravity bow,  embrace the wild , hunter's mercy, sniper’s shot, surefooted stride
2:  fell the greatest foes , invisibility, invisibility, swift haste, easy climb, exacting shot
3: decoy image, find the gap, find the gap, foebane
4: aspect of earth hunter,  deeper darkvision 
5: summon nature’s ally V, summon nature’s ally V
Javelins (+23, 1d4+3 / +24, 1d4+4 w/in 30', bane vs undead); +5 Comp shortbow (+27, 1d6+6 / +28, 1d6+7 w/in 30', lesser truedeath crystal)
Travel devotion: 1/1
Items: 1/1 Laughing Rogue; 2/2 Quicksilver Boots; 2/2 Horizon Walker; 3/3 Scout's headband; Winged Vest 5/5, 2x Cure Serious Wounds, 1x potion non-detection, 1x potion undetectable alignment, 1x potion of haste, 1 belt of dwarvenkind (+4 Con)
 
 Spoiler: Bullette Form 
 HP: 155/155 AC: 29
Space and Reach: 15 feet/10 feet
Stats: Str 27 Dex 15 Con 20 / Int 13 Wis 14 Chr 8
Land speed 40 ft, burrow 10 ft,
Senses: darkvision 60 ft, low-light vision, scent, tremorsense 60'
Gain +12 natural armor, two claw attacks (+24 / 2d8+9)
Retain abilities, BAB, saving throws, skills
 

 
DrK
 Zarina 

Zarain had paused at Mahkavoy and Donal's words and her pale skin flushes red at the mage's words. But as Lan bristles she merely cleans the long flaming curved blade on the hem of her (now very tattered) cloak and lays a hand out on Lan's shoulder.   "Ignore him Lan, its fine, we all worked toegther in bringing this monster down."   Looking to Mahkavoy she nods   "I thank you mage for you efforts, I thank us all, another great victory we have won here."  

Then as she walks towards Mirriana, a few bits of flaming embers still being brushed from her cloak she nods to the Priestess.   "I think we have found everything of value here, its sill merely half way through the door, shall we head back to the grove to meet these Wildwatchers to end this and get whatever stories and secrets they've been hoarding?"   
Auranghzeb
Chastised, Makavoy tries to fight the Lich's Influence, but with Acererak being too strong, Makavoy decides to stay away from the group for the time being. The Lich inside inquires Makavoy about the Hand of Vecna.

 Why did you let that woman take it? It is rightfully mine. I served Vecna! I fought Vecna! 

Makavoy is exhausted. Watching the group from a few meters away, he only nods to Zarina's words.
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Let's camp before we head back. For all we know there's a final stage of the challenge they're going to unleash on us once we return the tokens, it'd be better to heal up and be fresh," I suggest, healing my wounds and diminished strength, and the wounds of anyone else who needs it.

One again I can raise a sturdy shelter for the night.
Auranghzeb
Makavoy has barely spent any spells, so fruitless was the combat for him. But he is so eager to get rid of Acererak's influence, the suggestion of resting seems such a great idea.


 Let's do that, better days ahead, One would think. 
DrK
The cave with the dead massive pig does not feel as daunting when Mirriana calls forth another gleaming white brick fortress within the cavern. Inside the cool white walls there is bright light, warmth and the group are able to relax in the small common area beside a kitchen with the summoned wicker baskets piled high with fruits and breads. Zarina looks to the others as she strips off her weapon belt placing it in the small sleeping chamber that she chooses for her own.

Swords, bow and dagger join the heavy bandolier of alchemical vials and the battered chain shirt, greaves and vambraces before she rejoins the others, a strange look with gleaming magical crows, rings and bracers atop an otherwise plain homespun green dress.   "So we have most of the day to rest up here, does anyone have any suggestions for what we should do?"   she asks,   "At least in the air of such a vile beast we should be safe as nothing else will come sniffing this way?"  
Auranghzeb
Makavoy just wants to rest and expel Acererak.

 We thus have collected all that we needed. What it is to be done with it? That should be the priority in the morning. That, and getting away from this cave.

Could we destroy Harrowdroth's remaining tusks?  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

After raising the shelter and helping to heal the party's minor injuries, I doff my armour and settle down on some of the more comfortable furnishings to polish it.

"I hope returning the tokens to the fey tomorrow will simply yield us access to Dragotha's phylactery. The Titan, the Nightmare and Quethos have been quite enough, I'm thankful we didn't also have to face the Roc and the Doomshroud."
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "The ways of the Fey are strange, to say the least. Who knows what they may say or do to fulfill their end of the bargain."   Donal says, sharpening his blade.   "We should be prepared for battle, or at least enter cautiously. I'll be glad once we're back on solid earth again, not this otherworld."  
DrK
The day and night pass in the marble palace in the cave where the party spend most of the time in the palace with the shutters closed enjoying the swirling patterns representing the realms of the outer planes that were on the inside of the shutters. As the morning dawns the heroes assemble once more with the various bits of the task nd head back out once more into the low grey clouds and persistent rain that seems to dominate the Isle of Tilagos.

Its 6 long hours of walking out of the gorges and then across the heathery moors before the  wooded clearing with the crystalline growth can be seen. Zarina raises a hand,   "I know we are expecting something good here, or at least we hope it will be the location of the phylacyery, but do want to prepare?   
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    
 "You think that they may not honour their word?"  Elkist asks, troubled. It was to be expected that the forces of chaos &amp; evil would lie and deceive, but she found it intensely frustrating when those with less defined morals let her down.

 
 Spoiler: actions 

cast various energy immunity &amp; protection from energy spells
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 

   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  7,  HP  90/105,  DR  DR10/ admantine,  Speed  30ft
 AC  30,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  28,  Fort  21,  Ref  18,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch, Magical Weapon+5 Lightning Sword   +22/ +17/ +12 (+12 base, +5 str, +5 weapon) (2d6+12 (+7 str, +5 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield (w/ Magical Vestment+5)  (+11 Armor, +7 Shield, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves
Magic Weapon +5 (Donal)
Magic Vestment +5 (Donal)
Energy Drain - 2 Negative levels

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

 

 
 
  
DrK
It’s a long trek in the morning through the mountain foothills before you head across the grassy plains, the island seems to be almost drawing breath as no massive land bulette are seen and no massive flying rice can be observed circling the high cloud shrouded peaks.

Trudging through the grass you soon approach the broad clear grass covered slope where the strange crystalline growth stands that you arrived by and met the 4 wild watchers. As you arrive at the crystal growth the very earth shimmers as the 4 watchers emerge from the land, Tylanthros gleaming the summer sun as the flowers flow down his cape, Beshkawan in a cloud of snow and frost that seems to steam in the air around his pale blue banners, Thadamar with wild flowers of spring following their every step and finally  Sayren-Lei in a flurry of red and yellow leaves that swirl in a tiny whirlwind around the Watcher of Autumn

All 4 standing some 60ft from the party on a loose circle around you offer a curt nod before you hear one of the voices in your minds, it’s has a female inflection and then from the aggressive stance of the watcher of autumn you realise it must be Sayren Lei.   ”You have learned nothing from your trials. The Roc King lies dead atop his mountain, you slew the dogs of Vecna and the mad Titan but have shown no wisdom. I say no to your quest, I say you must defeat me if you wish to sup from the fountain and gain the knowledge of the Order of Storms.”    There is a stirring from the other watchers, the flowery Watcher of Spring turning their back even as the others cross their arms as they await your response to Sayren Lei’s challenge
Auranghzeb
Before

Having shed Acererak's influence, Makavoy opted for less aggressive Vestiges, Binding Wee Jas favorite The Green Lady and the always dependable Haures.

 
 Spoiler: Binding Roles 
 (1d20+12)[ 27 ]  Green Lady vs DC 17  (1d20+15)[ 19 ]  vs DC 25 Haures
I pick Tue Casting as my granted spell from the Green Lady
 



***

When confronted with the harsh words.

 We didn't learn anything? who was this watcher of Autum to make such statements? 
 Mylady, I beg your pardon, but we came from  great distance and through great peril to bring you everything you asked. I saw my friends crushed by the mighty titan and I saw brave Zarina implode in pain before being brought back to life. Wisdom always arrives too late, or so they say. But haven't we secured the hand of Vecna and defeated the Harrowdroth? How then can you doubt our intentions or our wisdom? 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "So, to be clear..."   Donal says when the Watcher denies them.   "You've just spouted off a list of our dead enemies and you want your name added to it? Or did you have something else in mind with your tantrum?"  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"We fought only where necessary," I respond patiently to Sayren-Lei, a twitch of my hand conveying I'd prefer my companions not rise to her bait just yet. "And those who died by our blade were highly deserving! I regret the roc king's death, but that was not our doing or something we could reasonably have prevented. If there is a lesson you would have us learn, state it plainly! We have abided by the rules of your task! If you dislike the outcome, then perhaps that is something you should have considered with your fellows before setting the terms!"

I appraise each of them in turn, trying to glean what they make of Sayren-Lei's reneging.

 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy to prod her into explaining her objection.  (1d20+12)[ 32 ] 

Sense motive to divine her intentions and those of the other watchers.  (1d20+15)[ 28 ] 
 
DrK
Before the watcher can respond again the pale grey hued Beshkawan with flickering blue flags holds up a hand around which a snow flurry forms.  ”They speak true, they fought when attacked and did not seek violence more than was needed. I say they are worthy.” 

At those words Thadamar and Tylanthros both agree, the summer and spring standing a cloud of warmth and flowers. In the face of this Sayen Lei inclines their face, flags dipping.  ”I say they must prove their worth, I will not allow them to cause the fall of our place here. Defend yourself!” 

The Wildwatcher of Autumn adds the last as their skin seems to darken and thicken into heavy bark b egg ore they vanish from sight with an audible pop from where they were stood in front of him some 50ft away!

 
 Fight!
Diplomacy check not high enough I’m afraid
Watcher of Autumn casts quickened barkskin followed by greater invisibility

Players to GO

 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

As the Waywtacher spun its spear and vanished from view Zarina glanced at the others a nervous look upon her otherwise smooth face.  "I do not wish to kill this one... but he is deadly!   even as she speaks she summons a shimmering lightning shaped aegis of force to  shield  her from harm and then manipulates to time around her an the others  haste ning their perception of the battlefield.

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 



Free: Knowledge Devotion  (1d20+27)[ 45 ] 
Swift: Quickened Shield
Standard: haste


   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,  HP  112/125,  Speed 
 AC  29,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  27,  Fort  13,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
   Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20)
   MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 3x Cap( Fire, Spark, Acid), Wand Chamber (Wraithstrike): Flaming burst desert wind falchion +1 (+5) (Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead))   +23/18/13 (2d4+12 + 1d6 Fire, 18-20)
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+12 Armor, +2 Dex, +5 Natural)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Air
Heart Earth
Greater Luminous Armour
Shield 28 mins
Haste 14 rounds

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm  8 shield + 1 dodge + 3 dex  = 34


 Abilities 
[InActive] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[InActive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Fight to subdue if possible..." I suggest to my allies as my eyes continue to track the watcher despite her attempt at greater invisibility.

 I can still see her!  I send across the mindlink, privately conveying the fey's range and bearing from myself and hoping our thoughts aren't too transparent to our clearly telepathic opponent.

I grasp the rod of quicken spell and quickly pray for good fortune, before beginning a summoning spell.

 
 Spoiler 

Free: Pierce Illusion. Rolled 28 which defeats greater invisibility unless the spellcasting modifier is something ridiculous like +14, so Mirriana can almost certainly see through the watcher's Greater Invisibility (Illusion) spell.

Swift action: Surge of Fortune. +2 luck to basically everything. Can convert to a natural 20 on any dice roll and end the spell as an immediate action.

Full-round action: Summon Monster VII.

Iron Guard's Glare (-4 attack rolls against allies for threatened foes).

Prepared manoeuvres:
Shield Block
Divine Surge
White Raven Tactics

Readying next round Defensive Rebuke (1) or Douse The Flames (2)  (1d2)[ 1 ] 
 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Subdue...I'll try. No promises."   Donal says as he watches the belligerent spirit disappear from sight. Sword and shield at the ready, he utters a short prayer as he advances to where the spirit was last seen.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Shield of Faith, move up to 60ft towards where the Watcher was.

Donal Ren
HP 166/166
AC (melee) 39
AC (ranged) 44
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 4/-]

F/R/W: +23/+16/+20

Donal Spells: Shield of Faith (20 minutes), Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear), Haste (+1 Attack, AC, Ref; +30ft speed; extra attack on full attack)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    
 "Duplicitous fey!"  Elkist snarls. While she knew well how to fight such beings, her training had never extended to nonlethal forms...

 
 Spoiler: actions 

Standard: detect spirits (ie detect fey)
Free: Guide magic (spirit guide to maintain detect spirits concentration indefinitely)
Move: Move to protect Mirriana
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 

   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  7,  HP  ?/105,  DR ,  Speed  30ft
 AC  30,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  28,  Fort  21,  Ref  18,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch, Magical Weapon+5 Lightning Sword   +22/ +17/ +12 (+12 base, +5 str, +5 weapon) (2d6+12 (+7 str, +5 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield (w/ Magical Vestment+5)  (+11 Armor, +7 Shield, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves
Magic Weapon +5 (Donal)
Magic Vestment +5 (Donal)
Energy Drain - 2 Negative levels

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves) EXPIRED
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

 

 
 
  
Auranghzeb
Makavoy had several ways of dealing with the invivible fey. Thanks to Zceryll's powers, the fey mind and thoughts remained easy for him to locate, But his allies were blind and abjuration was not his forte. He moved towards Zarina and cast a spell to allow the warrior to see the fey neatly.


 Here, be our sword. 
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move next to Zarina
STANDARD: CAST TRUE SEEING ON ZARINA.
 
DrK
Zarina hastens the heroes as she stands next to Mirriana, Elkist andthen Mahkavoy. The binder-mage gifts Zarina with true seeing and the Watcher leaps back into a view, only a hint of a heat haze around it suggesting its shielded by by now useless magic. Mirriana likewise ignores the magic, her will simply refusing to believe the magic was there. For Elkist and Donal its trickier as they cannot see it but the shaman can sense its presence "somewhere" to her front!

To Zarina, Mahkavoy's (via his strange cloak) and Mirriana's eyes they can see a great swarm of insects starting to buzz and swarm about the Wildwatcher, their elemental flags flapping in a breeze as their cloak seems to lengthen and flap dangerously on its own accord. the watcher moves 30ft from Donal, maintaining their distance (~70ft) from the cluster of warrior woman even as a cool blue shield of crackling fire erupts around them and then a crackling pillar of fire and ice hammers down upon Elkist, Mirriana, Mahkavoy and Zarina tha pelts them with gobbest of lava, frozen hail and a cloud of steam!

 

Waywatcher:
Move 30ft
Swift: Quickened fire shield
Standard:  Storm of Ice and Fire   for  (6d6)[ 19 ]  Fire,  (6d6)[ 13 ]  Cold, concealment in the 20ft radius column and half movement. Ref DC 23 for half damage

 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 
A preminition of danger allows me to dodge between the gobbets of lava, shards of ice and hail, allowing me to complete my summoning of an avoral guardinel above the battlefield.

"Holy one!" I call out. "Our foe is invisible!" I gesture in the direction of Sayren-Lei. The avian warrior nods in response, casting a  See Invisibility  spell that allows it to turn it's gaze on the wild watcher like a target lock.

Meanwhile I extricate myself from the storm area and launch my own assault. " Assay Spell Resistance! Hammer of Righteousness! 
 
 Spoiler 

Summon Monster VII completes and the Avoral acts immediately casting See Invisibility.

Mirriana Move 20ft through difficult terrain (40ft) and a further 20ft towards the enemy (hasted move is 60ft).

Swift casting Assay Spell Resistance.
Standard casting Know Vulnerabilities -&gt; Hammer of Righteousness.  (14d6)[ 45 ]  non-lethal force damage FORT DC19 for half.

Sacrifice [roll]1d3] strength damage
 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  Distance and direction, got it.   Donal sends back to Mirriana as he takes a moment to ready himself into a sprinter's stance. He exhales and then races across the battlefield, swinging his electrified sword at where Mirriana indicated the Fey was.

 
 Spoiler 
Swift action: Activate Bracers of Lightning.
Charge. He can move up to 120ft as part of the charge if needed.

Attack  (1d20+34)[ 43 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+20)[ 26 ] 
Fire Damage  (1d6)[ 6 ] 
Electricity Damage  (1d6)[ 1 ] 

Miss Chance (1-50 Misses)  (1d100)[ 32 ] 

Donal Ren
HP 166/166
AC (melee) 39
AC (ranged) 44
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 4/-]

F/R/W: +23/+16/+20

Donal Spells: Shield of Faith (20 minutes), Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear), Haste (+1 Attack, AC, Ref; +30ft speed; extra attack on full attack)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist moves alongside Mirriana, her spirit senses scanning the area ahead for the fey guardian. With one hand on her holy symbol she invokes her prayers to Heironeous, feeling the power of noble felines bolster her and the righteous power of Law protect her.

 
 Spoiler: actions 

Standard: Cast Bite of the Weretiger
Swift: Law Devotion +5 sacred AC
Free: Guide magic (spirit guide to maintain detect spirits concentration indefinitely)
Move: Move to follow Mirriana
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 

   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  7,  HP  ?/105,  DR ,  Speed  30ft
 AC  30,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  28,  Fort  21,  Ref  18,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch, Magical Weapon+5 Lightning Sword   +22/ +17/ +12 (+12 base, +5 str, +5 weapon) (2d6+12 (+7 str, +5 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield (w/ Magical Vestment+5)  (+11 Armor, +7 Shield, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves
Magic Weapon +5 (Donal)
Magic Vestment +5 (Donal)
Energy Drain - 2 Negative levels

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves) EXPIRED
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

 

 
 
  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

As the Waywatcher throws fire and ice down at them all Zarina grits her teeth and she runs forward spinning her sword, her red genie blade slashing out trailing fire as tries to lad a savage blow hoping that Mirriana's hammers of righteousness would enable her to strike without killing this fey outright,
 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Reflex save  (1d20+15)[ 18 ]  vs the Fire and Ice

Move to the Creature
Standard: Divine Surge  (1d2+29)[ 30 ]  dam  (1d12+17)[ 18 ]  +  (1d6)[ 6 ]  Fire +  (8d8)[ 26 ] 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,  HP  112/125,  Speed 
 AC  29,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  27,  Fort  13,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
   Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20)
   MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 3x Cap( Fire, Spark, Acid), Wand Chamber (Wraithstrike): Flaming burst desert wind falchion +1 (+5) (Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead))   +23/18/13 (2d4+12 + 1d6 Fire, 18-20)
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+12 Armor, +2 Dex, +5 Natural)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Air
Heart Earth
Greater Luminous Armour
Shield 28 mins
Haste 13 rounds

Trueseeing (Mahkavoy)
Donal: GMW CL20 - 20 hours
Mirriana: Heroes Feast (Immune to fear) - 24 hours

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm  8 shield + 1 dodge + 3 dex  = 34


 Abilities 
[InActive] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[InActive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
The watcher grunts in pain, an outpuring of breath as the hammer slams into their fey form. Seconds later Donal and Zarina are upon them, Donal's crackling blade missing just but Zarina's massive fiery scimitar striking home. A bit further back Elkist shifts into a savage bestial form as she channels the power of the wild into her form, muscles swelling!

In the melee there is a fluttter of winds as the air around Donal and Zarina is suddenly alive with insects and chittering bugs that leap from the waywatchers' cloak. The cloak itself lashing out wiyth branches and vines seeking to wrest their weapons from their grip even as the Fey warder twists and spin amidst them both, short spear flickering than the eye can see as its lashes out with fist, foot and spear at them both!

 OOC

Free: Swarm aura FORT DC 32 (Donal and Zarina) or nauseated 1 round
   ---&gt; swarm nibbles  (3d6)[ 14 ] 

Free: Thorny cloak disarms
  vs Zarina  (1d20+21)[ 32 ]  vs Zarina  (1d20)[ 7 ] +???
  vs Donal  (1d20+21)[ 23 ]  vs Zarina  (1d20)[ 4 ] +???

Swift: Angry mongoose boost
Unarmed vs Zarina  (1d20+22)[ 28 ]  dam  (1d6+6)[ 10 ] 
Unarmed vs Donal  (1d20+22)[ 37 ]  dam  (1d6+6)[ 11 ] 
Unarmed vs Zarina  (1d20+17)[ 33 ]  dam  (1d6+6)[ 7 ] 
Unarmed vs Donal  (1d20+22)[ 23 ]  dam  (1d6+6)[ 10 ] 

Shocking spear
spear vs Zarina  (1d20+25)[ 36 ]  dam  (1d8+17)[ 23 ]  +  (1d6)[ 2 ]  elec
spear vs Donal (1d20+25)[ 40 ]  dam  (1d8+17)[ 19 ]  +  (1d6)[ 4 ]  elec
spear vs Zarina  (1d20+20)[ 40 ]  dam  (1d8+17)[ 18 ]  +  (1d6)[ 1 ]  elec
spear vs Donal  (1d20+15)[ 16 ]  dam  (1d8+17)[ 24 ]  +  (1d6)[ 3 ]  elec



 
Auranghzeb
 What fools these mortals be,  thought Makavoy as the watchers spins around elegantly trusting spear and fists.

What  could he do when most of the spells he knew where mere imitations of the enchanting powers of the Fae.


But the Wather had been the one using deadly attacks. Makavoy bought out a pinch of salt and threw it in the air, the salt in the watcher's body started to crystallize...


 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Casting Flesh to salt  (10d6)[ 33 ]  In case this does more than 1/2 the watcher current HP, then FORTITUDE DC 21 or become salt!

Spell penetration:  (1D20+16)[ 25 ] 
 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

I begin to think the watcher is depending too heavily on its magic, so I attempt to strip away its protections with a  Greater Dispel Magic !

And I follow up by encouraging Zarina to exploit an opening the ravening magics have created!

Meanwhile the Avoral tracks its target with laser focus! Extending a point claw towards the watcher, four empowered force missiles slam unerringly into the waywatcher!

 
 Spoiler 

Targeted Greater Dispel Magic:  (1d20+18)[ 35 ]  (+14CL +4 Inquisition Domain)
Spell Resistance: No
More dispels rolled OOC. The first 10 results (inclusive of above) are:
 35
28
35
25
27
34
24
28
20
25 
Let me know if I need more.

Swift action: White Raven Tactics for Zarina!

Avoral: Empowered Magic Missile.  (4d4+4)[ 16 ]  *1.5  24  total (Empowered Spell-like ability (magic missile). Save: No. Spell penetration (if necessary):  (1d20+8)[ 17 ] 

Manoeuvres reset for next round:  (9d5)[ 2 ][ 5 ][ 2 ][ 4 ][ 5 ][ 1 ][ 4 ][ 2 ][ 5 ](30) 
2, 5, 4 is Divine Surge, Douse The Flames, White Raven Tactics
 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Tricky..."   Donal says as the vines try to yank his sword away.   "But not good enough. Ah ha! Can see you now.  " Donal nods to Mirriana in thanks and moves to engage the offending druid, lightning running up and down the length of his blade.

 
 Spoiler 
Looks like 3 hits on Donal last round plus the swarm damage. Since the guy was invisible I'm not sure if Donal is within 5ft of him when he starts his turn. If he can 5ft step and full attack that's what he'll do. Otherwise he'll move adjacent and make a single attack.

Swift: Activate bracers.
Either: 5ft/Full Attack or Move/Single Attack.

Attack  (1d20+32)[ 48 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+20)[ 22 ] 
Fire Damage [roll]1d6[/roll[
Electricity Damage  (1d6)[ 6 ] 

Attack  (1d20+32)[ 51 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+20)[ 21 ] 
Fire Damage [roll]1d6[/roll[
Electricity Damage  (1d6)[ 4 ] 

Attack  (1d20+27)[ 30 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+20)[ 24 ] 
Fire Damage [roll]1d6[/roll[
Electricity Damage  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

Attack  (1d20+22)[ 30 ] 
Sword Damage  (1d10+20)[ 28 ] 
Fire Damage [roll]1d6[/roll[
Electricity Damage  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

Donal Ren
HP 146/166
AC (melee) 39
AC (ranged) 44
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 3/-] [15/50]

F/R/W: +23/+16/+20

Donal Spells: Shield of Faith (20 minutes), Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear), Haste (+1 Attack, AC, Ref; +30ft speed; extra attack on full attack)
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    
 "Stand down now Watcher, you disrespect your cause".  Elkist stands ready next to Mirriana, just a few steps back from the melee. Gripping her blade she gestures violently at any further sign of offence by the fey.

 
 Spoiler: actions 

Standard: Readied  Chastise Spirits   (11d6)[ 40 ]  Will DC30 for half, when the Watcher (presumably) continues to be hostile
Free: Guide magic (spirit guide to maintain detect spirits concentration indefinitely)
Move: Move to follow Mirriana &amp; position
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 

   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 11,  Level  15,  Init  7,  HP  ?/105,  DR ,  Speed  30ft
 AC  30,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  28,  Fort  21,  Ref  18,  Will  21,  Base Attack Bonus  12
 Ghost touch, Magical Weapon+5 Lightning Sword   +22/ +17/ +12 (+12 base, +5 str, +5 weapon) (2d6+12 (+7 str, +5 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch +1 longspear     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield (w/ Magical Vestment+5)  (+11 Armor, +7 Shield, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 29
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +2 resistance all saves
Magic Weapon +5 (Donal)
Magic Vestment +5 (Donal)
Energy Drain - 2 Negative levels

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
Heart of X (spell): light fortification (25% resist critical hits &amp; sneak attacks)
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves) EXPIRED
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):
Law Devotion
Bite of the Weretiger

Round+ effects:

 

 
 
  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

As the watcher shimmers and appears in the air, its bark like hide fading into the strange alien fey flesh as magics are stripped away by Mirriana the warrior mage steps sideways, coughing and spitting out the insects as she flanks this powerful nature spirit with Donal. Blood pours from her frame from the punches, stabs with the spear and the fire and ice and her dress is ripped to rags and blood pools around her feet as she moves in.

Hearing Mirriana's words she spins into a savage series of attacks with the sword spinning fast as her blade crackles with raw untapped arcane power that erupts into plumes of fire on nuemrous hits as she joins Donal in a sustained physical assulat on the fey

 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


5ft step to flank; Full attack, PA 2
Swift: Arcane strike (burn Starmantle cloak for +4 hit +6d10 dam)
 (1d20+33)[ 36 ]  dam  (1d12+23)[ 26 ]  +  (1d6)[ 6 ]  FIRE +  (6d10)[ 44 ] 
 (1d20+33)[ 48 ]  dam  (1d12+23)[ 30 ]  +  (1d6)[ 3 ]  FIRE +  (6d10)[ 27 ] 
 (1d20+28)[ 30 ]  dam  (1d12+23)[ 29 ]  +  (1d6)[ 6 ]  FIRE +  (6d10)[ 22 ] 
 (1d20+23)[ 24 ]  dam  (1d12+23)[ 32 ]  +  (1d6)[ 5 ]  FIRE +  (6d10)[ 41 ] 

White Raven Tactics
Swift: Arcane strike (burn Spelltheft  for +4 hit +5d10 dam)
 (1d20+33)[ 45 ]  dam  (1d12+23)[ 30 ]  +  (1d6)[ 1 ]  FIRE +  (5d10)[ 26 ] 
 (1d20+33)[ 53 ]  dam  (1d12+23)[ 28 ]  +  (1d6)[ 5 ]  FIRE +  (5d10)[ 37 ] 
 (1d20+28)[ 47 ]  dam  (1d12+23)[ 32 ]  +  (1d6)[ 4 ]  FIRE +  (5d10)[ 21 ] 
 (1d20+23)[ 39 ]  dam  (1d12+23)[ 26 ]  +  (1d6)[ 2 ]  FIRE +  (5d10)[ 30 ] 
   Zarina "Brightblade"   
M LG Human Warblade/Ftr/Wiz/S.Sword/Abj.Champ/ JPM 1,  Level  1/1/4/1/4/ 4 (15),  Init  2,  HP    22/125,  
 AC  29,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  27,  Fort  13,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  Base Attack Bonus  13/7/2
   Fullblade  +1    +19/14/9 (2d8+8, 19-20)
   MW Comp (+2) Longbow  (20, 20 cold iron, 10 silver)   +16/11/6 (1d8+2, X3)
 3x Cap( Fire, Spark, Acid), Wand Chamber (Wraithstrike): Flaming burst desert wind falchion +1 (+5) (Least true death xtal (+1d6 vs undead))   +23/18/13 (2d4+12 + 1d6 Fire, 18-20)
 Lesser crystal of life keeping (+3 vs Death effects, Energy drain, Inflict)  Gith craft Mithril Chain Shirt +1 ,  Stacks with armour: Least crystal of Arrow Deflection (+2 AC vs ranged)  Dastana +1  (+12 Armor, +2 Dex, +5 Natural)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 22, Wis 6, Cha 11
 Condition 

Superior Resistance  24 hours  (+6 to all saves)
Heart Air
Heart Earth
Greater Luminous Armour
Shield 28 mins
Haste 12 rounds

Trueseeing (Mahkavoy)
Donal: GMW CL20 - 20 hours
Mirriana: Heroes Feast (Immune to fear) - 24 hours

Xtal: +3 vs Death/Negative energy effects
Rite: +2 Saves vs Death / Fear
AC: 12 arm  8 shield + 1 dodge + 3 dex  = 34


 Abilities 
[InActive] Leading the Charge (+10 damage)
[InActive] Stance: Mystic Phoenix (+1 CL, +2 dodge AC, DR 2xSpell/Evil)
[Ready] Moment Perfect Mind (Ctr)
[Ready] Divine Surge (strike)
[Ready] Searing strike (boost)
 
DrK
Sayren Lei shudders and dances lashing out at Zarina and Donal with a savage flurry of blows with foot hand and spear trailing sparks behind them. Magics come flying in from Elkist and Mahkavoy as her arm shimmers with crystalline salt and a blast of raw power washes over her leaving her reeling. That continues as Mirriana's powerful blast of anti-magic strips away the invisibility and barkskin amidst other defences. The two warriors take advantage as swords lash in from both sides with Donal and Zarina raining and torrent of savage blows upon Sayren Lei who even as Donal drives his blade into her flank she shudders from a blast of flame that envelops her chest as Zarina cuts into her.... the fey drops like a rag doll, Zarina spinning her blade to not land a killing blow seeing the fey's chest still rising slightly (saved only by the Hammer of righteous power that had bruised and not broken the Watcher).

The other 3 Watchers make no move to intervene, although Elkist and Mirriana an see a look of relief on their impassive faces as Zarina and Donal step back from delivering any killing blows to their autumnal comrade.  Beshakawn moves to the centre and raises a hand.  "You have shown your worth. More, you have shown your mercy and when Sayren Lei recovers they will agree."  Behind them Tylanthros gestures towards the portal and with a ripple of light and shimmering air obsidian platform is supplemented by a great obsidian fountain that forms around the portal where the waters dance and splash in the sunlight scintillating with rainbow lights. As the sound and scents of flowers wash over you all each of you is distracted as a wave of memories of childhood and long forgotten nightmares hits you.

  "And so you have earned the right return the lore of the Order of Storms to the world beyond. The AGE OF WORMS is upon us as prophecy is fulfilled. What the powers of old began falls upon you to complete. Drink Deep of the of Fountain of Dreams. Drink Deep and Remember. Drink Deep and Dream the Dream of Ages..."   
Auranghzeb
Makavoy had never been part of a group so competent. They had managed to kill the titan, the dreaded Harrowdroth and the necromancer.

Now they had the wardens on their side and offered to partake from the fountain of dreams.

 I'll drink from it. I may not be the most deserving, but I'll drink from it. 

And with his usual arrogance, he walked toward the fountain to drink...
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Thank you for your service," I nod respectfully to the Avoral warrior before I dismiss it, receiving a brief nod in turn.

Then a sense of awe washes over me as I witness the transformation of the platform. The obsidian fountain, shimmering with otherworldly light, is a breathtaking sight. I feel a profound connection to the water, as if it calls to a part of me I have yet to discover.

As the memories and nightmares flood my mind, I brace myself for memories of the loss of my brother Michael in the Whispering Cairn and my father’s subsequent descent into alcoholism. But this time I find those memories hold no power over me, and I smile as I recall earlier carefree days in the hills around Diamond Lake with my brother, and the blessing of Mystara’s angel that first set me on this path.

I turn my gaze to Sayren Lei, my heart once again heavy with concern. I can’t ignore the wounds she bears – the wounds that we inflicted over a misunderstanding! Despite the risk of renewed conflict, I move to kneel beside her. Her wounds are grievous, though she still breaths, a testament to the ferocity of her spirit. I reach out a gentle hand, my fingers brushing against her hair, and weave together the threads of a healing prayer to knit closed the worst of her injuries with a soft blue-white glow.

The demands of compassion satisfied, I rise to my feet and approach the fountain.

"We have proven our worth," I affirm, my voice filled with a resolve. "I too will drink of the fountain."
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "I'll not pass this opportunity up."   Donal says as he approaches the Fountain with the others to take a drink.
DrK
Mirriana approaches the downed watcher and is surprised to see fresh shoot and leaves budding in the wounds as the creature seems to be healing swiftly. Slightly tilted eyes open revealing deep amber hued orbs that seem to stare deep into her as Sayren -Lei slowly sits up and looks at the mess and carnage around them.   "I will recover. But  the quality of your mercy is noted as is your worthiness that the others have granted."   Puling themselve sup on their spear they limp towards the others offering a low bow to Mirriana, Zarina, Elkist, Donal, Lan and Mahkavoy.

Assembling around the fountain the 6 heroes; 4 Champions of the Arena and the 2 newcomers all stare at the scintillating waters before reaching out with cupped hands to drink.  As you drink deep you start to realise that the fountain is no ordinary water, instead its a strange link with the final survivors of the Order of Storms and their lasting memories that have formed this place. As you drink, the water rushing to your heads as the world seems to spin around you you are all overwhelmed by a sudden rush of alien yet familiar memories. The world swirls into a vortex of lightning, rain, wind and fire before you feel like you are plummeting through a great dark void. It lasts mere moments, but for a second you all faced with a great void with the cold perpetuity of the infinite weighing down upon you.

The scene flikers and shifts and you crash onto a rocky bluff. The sounds of screams and battle echo all around you, the smell of fire, brimstone and charnel heaps assails your nose. The ridge you are on is barren, blasted by magic, a few scarred and blackened trees clinging to the edge revealing a harsh scene stretching out around you. White Plume Mountain smokes and looms nearby, the smoke merging with the unnatural dark pallor and purple and black smears of the clouds above that block much of the sun. With your strange otherwordly vision you can see far and near at the same time as you perceive the armies fighting over the ground around you, and the cities miles away that smoke and lie in rubble and ruin and all around you the cacophonous moans  of the undead ride the winds.

The canyons to the south of your ridge are almost moving, such is the horde that crawls forth, undead in a vast numbers. You understand where you, the no blighted Rift Canyons some 150 miles north of Alhastor ad this is where the armies of Kyuss are pouring forth. Uncountable zombies, skeletons and ghouls mix with other larger beasts such as morghs, eviscerator beetles, wormcallers dreaded Swords of Kyuss mix with yet larger monstrosities such as enormous worm-dripping centipedes, immense twin tailed black scorpions that spread madness in the ranks of the living and horrific worm green dragons spewing green fumes. They battle the serried ranks of the living, Knights of men, noble elves with bow and spear, ranks of doughty dwarves and glowing winged eladarin and angels.  Even the sky is filled with battle as winged undead chimeric beasts, dragons of flayed skin and skeletal bone battle men atop griffins, graceful launch arrows from eagle back and the winged angels. But that is not what gives pause, in the centre of the battle bellowing great sheets of flame that consume all who stand against it a vast draconic form with evil burning in its eyes, wings ripped and torn and armoured scales a dusky red is the colossal dracolich Dragotha. From all of your eyes it seems clear that the ranks of mortals are falling fast, faster than the dead who oppose them!

As you look around the ridge, your cliff top perch currently devoid of threat a cluster of sombre coweled people stand watching the scene. All clutch staffs of various trees and woods and resemble powerful druids with aged, if lined and battle weary faces. Four of them you recognise, their cloaks matching those of the watchers that they will be destined to become in 1000 years. One stands towards you, his face gaunt with hardship and robes matted with blood. Tylanthros (or at least the man that the fey Tylanthros came from) offers a bow, although no spark of recognition appears in his face for it will be more than 1000 years before before he meets you on Tilagos.

  "The heroes of prophecy. Your timing is perfect, we can hold them no longer but we have been successful in our task and the sacrifice has not been in vail."    The man indicates a cluster of a dozen or so druids standing behind him who are clustered around a strange container with its faces carved with leering demonic and draconic faces like a black metal cage around a gem the size of a halfling carved like a heart that seems to pulse with red fire.

  "Dragotha, Kyuss's greatest power, his phylactery is ours but at great cost. His minions even now come to try and reclaim it and son he will learn of its theft. We must hide it forever from his reach for I fear that its destruction at this juncture would only drive him to an unstoppable fury and release devastation upon the land. But, if we can take it form this land he will sense its loss and he will abandon this army, and abandon Kyuss and they will be lost without his leadership and dark power. Our most trusted allies will hold off his aerial forcs whilst some of us can carry this to  a place of safe.. But his men, his Swords of Kyuss, his boneyards will come here soon and they must be held off... can you this ridge to allow us to flee?" "  

At mentions of allies a woman steps forward, her cloak slipping free to show a shimmering silver dress that moves like liquid silver under ornate silver breastplate and greaves. Her eyes aflame with a spark of life and vitality. You all recognise as Lashona - but Lashona as a younger dragon.   "I will hold off Drgaotha. I have long known him for many centuries and he will not turn away from a chance to strike at me. I cannot hold him long as he is grown in power since his long death. If you can hold the ridge to allow the Order to move the phylactery I will hold the skies. Be be quick!   
  I shall do that Lady Lashonna. We will take this far from here, and bury it in the depths of a fortress built to hold this. In the cradle of the Mountains, in the heart of Kongen-Thulnir it shall be held and contained. But you must save us, you must hold them off or the Age of Worms shall DOOM us all."   
Auranghzeb
The fountain literally transports Makavoy through oceans of time. He isn't even sure this isn't a dream. He walks idly for a minute, contemplating the devastation ahead. But the smells and the noises are all too real, cutting too deep into his mind. This is happening...

 K.Arcana  (1d20+16)[ 34 ] 
Spellcraft (1d20+24)[ 29 ]  

His mind is dazzled. This is a time before his time. Before the empire of Suel rose from the sands! What is this magic?

He finally reacts. If this is real, then he can't stand like an idiot in this buff, a warm meal for those mighty beasts! but as he prepares to cast a spell to become ethereal, the druids approach them. These are, these are the watchers! Tylanthros speaks some sense to this madness.

This is the work of Kyuss...

 k.religion  (1d20+11)[ 22 ]  

He wants to answer Tylanthros, but the woman interrupts and Makavoy can only nod to her words. Suddenly, he feels emboldened

 Yes... yes.. we will hold Dragotha. We will keep hold the line in this ridge and take the battle for them. The power of deserts yet unborn will scourge their bones! 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

Elkist too stoops to drink, overwhelmed by emotion as the visions of the past wash over her.  "The phylactery...they were wise to hide it but now surely we must seek and destroy it! Dragotha cannot be eluded for eternity, But does anyone know of this Kongen-Thulnir, and importantly - how can such a phylactery be destroyed?!". 
 
 
  
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Sometimes the gods remind you how small you are, compared against their canvas."   Donal says, taken back by the gravity of what they witnessed. He then smiles and finishes cleaning the dryads blood of his blade.   "But Tempus says even a single blade can win the day if wielded with courage. I don't know how to destroy the foul thing, but I can ask him for a vision tomorrow."  

"  Who has the most grievous injuries? I've a small prayer to stitch them up."  
 
 Spoiler 
Donal has 2 castings of Lesser Vigor. Each will heal a total of 15 HP and whoever wants them can have them.

The next time they stop to prepare spells Donal will prepare one casting of  Divination .

Donal Ren
HP 146/166
AC (melee) 39
AC (ranged) 44
[DR 8/-, up to 50 damage, then DR 3/-] [15/50]

F/R/W: +23/+15/+20

Donal Spells: Shield of Faith (20 minutes), Magic Vestment, Greater Magic Weapon, Superior Resistance, Longstrider
Other Spells: Heroes' Feasts (+1 morale Attack/Will, Immune to Fear)
 
DrK
The swirling vision whirls around you for what seems like an age more. The delicate and beautiful Lashona, eyes alive and skin flushed with vitality leaps into the sky, her body shifting from the young maiden into a massive silvery serpent filling the air around you as the wind sends dust streaming into the air around you and the druids. Even as the massive phylactery is born away by a collection of flying eagles and owls ridden by woad painted elves the silver dragon streaks across the battlefield over the battling mortals and legions of the dead towards the colossal red beast dragotha... Where you know from legends she is destined to fall!

Even as the phlyactery is born away there is another shift, a hook pulling at your very soul as you are dragged through darkness before landing on a dusty rocky hunk of rock in a ocean. The island you are on is a bar featureless chunk of rock with no trees and precious few scrubs, lichens or weeds clinging to the storm lashed rocks. The island appears to be riven in half with the northen half now battered ruins and spines of jagged spies jutting out the wind lashed ocean. Beside you is a ruined fountain, bone dry and the central spire crumbled and worn away to dust.

Zarina looks around, her face ashen and hair blowing wildly in the gusting wind.  "Tilagos... Tilagos outside the protection of time and those ancient druids. We must move fast though, the knowledge in the fountain has been released. Even now it will be flowing int crypts, archives and sooth sayers' hands."  Taking a deep breath she nods to the others.  "Kongen-Thulnir was built on the north side of Rift Canyon, about 190 miles north-northeast of Alhaster built along the cliffs. Its a city of ancient Giants, but one we can reach to destroy that Phylactery and make Dragotha vulnerable!"" 
   So Ends Book 9 of the Age of Worms! And Congratulations, welcome to Level 16!   
DrK
Zarina stops and kneels on the sharp rocks centering herself for some 10 minutes, a whispered  "Can you feel it? The knowledge from the fountain has been released into the world. It will be appearing even now as books have extra pages, lost scrolls fall from the stacked shelves of a library and ancient magical artifacts long thought lost and forgotten will be found in old boxes or chests in ruins"    She shivers slightly, her battered and tattered green dress now in near fragments and more for modesty under her armour than for any practical value.

 "THe ancient city of Kongen-Thulnir is a cliffside fortress-city created by the ancient druids Order of the Storm, and ruled by the giant. It sits on the north side of Rift Canyon, about 190 miles north-northeast below the top of the cliff. It will be dangerous though, the city is home to Giant tribes that rule though fear and terror along with masses of bandits and other orcs and the like that plague bandit country. But it is there that the Druid hid the phylactery of Dragoltha!

Even though Lashona cannot be truly trusted, how can we trust any followed of Kyuss, or any of the undead I agree with her that Kyuss must be stopped and his most powerful follower the one that is marshalling his forces, the ancient Dragotha is a key to that."    Following that she regards her spell book, and grins,  "Happily, the knowledge from the fountain has helped me as well. I have the means to transport us to Magepoint should we wish to see Manzorian, Eligos, Celeste, Agath and Allustan"    ... She pauses and considers, now as she realises just how powerful they are becoming and that they may even be rivalling these heroes of old in power....

Assuming the others agree Zarina gathers you all close and word teleports you hundreds of miles across the inland sea to the sprawling town on the shores of the Lake of Unknown Depths. As before the dark blue waters of Lake of Unknown Depths stretch out to the horizon and rising from a small island maybe half a mile off the coast linked to the village by a 20ft marble arch is a shimmering castle of blue crystal with a vast faceted dome shining like a blue jewel. The village itself though is much changed. The fields and tree covered hills are yellow with autumnal leaves and many of the fields bare scars of bare earth, some melted and almost glassy rock, others trenches of rough dirt and rock.

As well as the damage to the fields the Wide streets, show the same sorts of damage with around a third of the buildings resembling burned out husks or surrounded by industrious scaffolds. A massive blue dragon head is mounted atop a stone table in the squre and glimmers with some sort of magical preservative. The sprawling three storey Inn with its  stylistic golden eye on the blue sign with the name "the All Seeing Eye" seems to be mainly intact save for a large patch of newly tiled roofs on one half.  The collonaded Temple to Mystara is in worse shape with fully half the columns collapsed and now dragged in a neat pile adjacent to the Temple and a gaping hole in the ceiling where blackened marble edges look to have been burnt and melted.

As you appear on the cobblestones at the edge of the town you notice the friendly tone of the village has gone. Where previously the ex-adventuring community had been unarmed and dressed in normal robes and the like now most seem to be garbed in armour with weapons at their waists. The ogre who had been the bouncer previously carries his blade on his back and is joined by a villanous looking man with one eye, a glittering emerald eye patch over the other and a bow wreathed in cool green fire. He starts as he see's you all approaching..

 "By the Gods.. we had thought you perished a month ago. You vanished and then the attacks started, and the Dragon swarm struck. Manzorian and Eligos thought you had stirred something up but fallen in the attempt. If we knew where they were they would be delighted to know you are alive. The inn remains open please come in, I will send a runner to find Master Allustan, I am sure he will be excited to head more of where you have been." 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Giants...."   Donal mutters as they are transported back to the world. He takes a few moments to gather his bearings after arriving in Magepoint.   "I take it this isn't how you left it?"   He asks the group.   "I know we're on a bit of schedule, but what're everyone's plans? Do we leave today or in the morning?"  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina looks about with a worried expression and shakes her head.   "No.. no it was fine when we left. And that was maybe a week or ten days not months ago."   Se fixes the guard with look as they are walking through the town and many other people are stopping and staring.   "What happened?"  ,

The guard pauses and gestures  at the ruined Temple to Mystara and the few other houses.  "As I said. Was maybe 6 weeks ago we got word and rumours from the Free City that the dead were walking more than was expecting. Ships had vanished and caravans gone missing. But then more news came of Dragons moving in large numbers and attacking towns and cities. Well, that bit were true at least! THere was maybe 4 or 5 of the beasts, led by a red one that near filled the sky. Brazzemal some of the others said its name was. It strafed the town, poor Lord Agath were killed fighting against it. THen Manzorian, Eligos and Celeste left maybe 3 days past heading north. They said something about a library and new knowledge coming to light and vanised." 

Before Zarina can respond further there is a shout from inn and a tall figure in red robes with a braided beard strides forward, a tapping from one hand as he leans on his staff.  "The Heroes of Diamond Lake, the slayers of Ilthane the Black and Champions of the Greyhawk arena. You live! We had feared the worst after the dragon rage began and it had been so long."    He waves with his staff towards the All Seeing Eye where a crow of onlookers are slowly assembling around the larger table in the centre where a pair of half finished games of Dragon chess lie abandoned. The Inn is much as you remember with delicious smells of food and flickering continual lanterns in a variety of colours (somewhat reminiscent to the rainbow chamber in the first chambers in the Whispering Cairn so many months ago).  As drinks are  brought forward he points to the seats.  "Please. Tell me, what did you find in Tilagos and from the lady Lashona?" 
  
 
  
Auranghzeb
Makavoy had never been here before. He was not one of the heroes of Greyhawk these folks were praising. But he had seen the same vision of undead hordes and dragon-led destruction.


 My name is Makavoy, I come from Suel, I'm a Dust Digger far from the Sea of Dust who was there in the Iland of Tilagos and helped these heroes defeat the Titan and the Necromancer Darl Quethos.

What you describe, we saw it pass in a time beyond time; an age of worms once gone and now threatening our world.


We don't have much time. We know where the phylactery is.  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"A storm of dragons?! I trust Naximarra behaved herself?" I enquire, disconcerted that more time than expected has passed in our absence.

"Lady Lashona transported us to an isle of legend to seek out the library of last resort. There we were tasked with four trials, which we completed, and also had to overcome servants of Kyuss - notably Darl Quethos bearer of the hand of Vecna! I have that for safe keeping. With the trials completed, we were granted a vision of one of the last battles of the previous war of Kyuss, and knowledge of the location of Dragotha's phylactery. We also discovered Lady Lashona is a silver dragon who lived that war, though for some reason in our meeting I felt she has objectives of her own. I don't know what her goals are, but I don't trust her."

"My heart is heavy that Celeste, Eligos and Manzorian think us dead. I'll prepare sending spells in the morning to check in with them. We'll need to rest and rearm for a few days before heading out again to Kongen-Thulnir, though time does press."
Chambers
 Donal Ren 

Donal waits for the others to respond before speaking to the people who are obviously in charge here.   "Donal Ren."   He says, standing at attention and saluting before relaxing.   "A sell-sword of Tempus. These fine people rescued me from dire straits upon the island and in fair return I have joined them in their cause."  
DrK
Allustan runs a lined and gnarled hand through the thick braids of his beard nodding as he Donal and Mahkavoy introduce themselves and Mirriana summarises the recent adventures. He shakes his head and with a wave of his hand flames dance in the pipe bowl as he takes a long inhale.  "The prophecies are coming to pass then. As you say, the Age of Worms may be returning. It does tally with what we  have seen in the lost knowledge now now flooding into the world,"  

He pauses, a ring of dark blue smoke floats above his head as he looks gravely worried.  "I have not heard from Eligos, Manzorian or Celeste since they entered the vile rifts of Kyuss in the broken plateau seeking Dragotha himself. They had spoken in sendings of dark fog, vile beasts and danger but I have not heard things since and sendings have not ben replied to. I worry greatly. But now..."   he looks grave but assured a little,  "If you know where the Phylactery is that is good news as if it can be destroyed then so can Dragotha. But I suspect he may have discovered where his own phylactery is with the release of the Library. I had reports of dozens of Dragons heading to the north as recently as the day before yesterday"  

He sucks on the pipe before taking a long sip of dark beer.  "Your worries of Lashona align with my own. Eligos also thinks she may have played us false with clues of Balkarade, there was nothing in the Spire that her clues sent you to. But we have found out he also headed to the rifts to seek out Dragotha along with his sister, a powerful mage in her own right. Why Lashona would send you to the depths of the jungles at such danger does not make feel happy. Although that you have slain Darl Quethos, if he lived, Agath would be overjoyed as he and Darl had sparred and been eneimes for many years." 

He sips the beer.  "Please, avail yourself of the town. You are some of the best hopes we have of seeing our friends again or stopping this cataclysm so anything we can do to help wecan"  

At that Zarina nods and smiles,   "I am troubled greatly but all that we have seen but have faith that Mirriana and Elkist here will help us prevail. Although I admit to being most fatigued. If we can have a day to wash, repair weapons, armour and clothing then I shall be ready to start anew. "   She looks at Mirriana though,   "Mirriana, where to first? the Wormcrawl fissure in search of Celeste and the others or Kongen-Thulnir to destroy his phylactery so that they or we can end Dragotha and the threat he offers?"  
DrK
As the others discuss the weighty matters of Kyuss, Dragotha and saving the world Lan pulls at Zarina’s sleeve and motions to the corner. She follows and crouches beside Lan noting the unusually worried look on the scout’s face.

 ”I cannot go with you Zarina. The scope of this is too large. We have faced death in the Arena, I stumbled into this in Diamond Lake and that is where I think I need to return.” 

Zarina looks surprised and shakes her head.   “why Lan, you are one of the toughest amongst us. You have helped slay Ilthane the Black, demons and the strange spell weaver under the spire.”  
 “Exactly. I saw you die twice in the past month. Once under the spire and again on that Druid island. I cannot watch it anymore. Next time it might not be you. It might be Mirr or Elkist or the new people. I had a thought I may look for Goat and help him and his tribe.” 

Zarina grins sadly,   “He might like that. I know he was heading home to the mountains to protect  the tribe. You are so valuable to us but if you have to go that is okay. Just promise that you’ll save a spot for me at Diamond Lake’s best Inn.”  

At that Lan smiles  “You didn’t spend long enough in Diamond Lake when we passed through. There are no nice Inns but I shall keep letters here and magepoint is a nice place to meet when you return.”  Zarina wipes away a tear from her eyes and embraces Lan gently, a whispered   “You’ll be missed”  

Following that and gruff cough and clearing his throat Lan turns to the others,  “It will not change your destination as with Mirriana leading you will succeed but I am only a single scout and out of my depth. Thank you for the friendship and I shall see you again in Diamond Lake, I’ll keep it safe for you Constable.”  he offers as he clasps hands with each person before grabbing a skin of wine from the bar and leaving.

Allustan offers him a parting farewell as well and regards Mirriana and the others.  ”Things are dire and I will pray to the Gods you can prevail. I can help you in the morning should you wish. I can teleport you near to either location in the morning   
RCgothic
  Mirriana 

I grimace at the news that Celeste, Eligos and Manzorian are out of contact. "We will have to trust that Manzorian, Celeste and the others can take care of themselves. I'll attempt to divine what I can on them tonight, but if sendings don't work there may be something about their location that blocks divinations. Unless there's some immediate critical aid we can provide then Dragotha has to be our focus.

 
 Spoiler 

Greater Scrying, attempted on Celeste. I'd argue Intimate knowledge is better than familiar, and Mirriana is likely to have something of Celeste's in her position. So DC24 Will save with a -9 modifier).

Commune - Commune with Mystara, goddess of magic and lore. 15 questions with yes, no, or up to 5 word responses if misleading or against deity's interests. Suggest doing this one via Discord and repeating the results.
 


"And what of Naximarra in all this dragon rage? Did Manzorian reinforce my Geas, and has she held true to her quest? I would speak to her, I think."

I can't hide my shock when Lan tells us his decision to leave, and despite my usual stoicism I have to fight hard to avoid sweeping him up in a hug, an indignity our long-time scout would noisily protest, even if I suspect he ultimately wouldn't mind. "We'll be poorer without you Lan! If you find Goattracker and Halsaephus give them my love. Perhaps with some time to think you might reconsider. We'll always be happy to see you! When I have a chance I'll keep in touch by sending."

"Before we head out we have repairs to make and supplies to gather. I expect we'll be ready the day after tomorrow."

 
 Spoiler 

Also casting: Mnemonic Enhancer x2. Prepares two extra lvl 3 spells.

Imbue with Spell Ability x4: Everyone in the party prepares 1 of:
Cure Moderate Wounds (2d8+10)
Close Wounds (1d4+5)
And 2 of:
Cure Light Wounds (1d8+5)
Least Vigor (15 rounds)
Sign (+4 to next initiative)
All at CL15.
 
Auranghzeb
Makavoy felt a bit awkward with all the emotions around him. He was too used to the loneliness of the Dust Digger, a profession made of solo exploration and the solipsism of Academia. He decided to remain silent. In any case, he had made his mind: the priority was to destroy the phylactery. Whatever he had seen atop that nightmarish hill was something that needed to be stopped.

Then he remembered. Before leaving town he had to send a report to his order. They wouldn't be able to do much, but at least fair warning was due as well as informing them of the tragic fate of Begara, Melvar and Slobe.


Impulsively, his hand went to the touchstone of Badar Al-Mosak. He missed the sea of Dust with its vastness of opportunities.


 Preparations must be brief. I'll go after the phylactery. I can only hope we go together. But as Lan has don: we all have many paths and we will meet one way or another when everything is said and done. 
DrK
THe day passes quickly. A flurry of activity as Lan takes his leave, Zarina embracing him fondly and watching for a while as his form walks down the road south back towards Diamond Lake. Mostly its cleaning equipment, fixing the rents and tears in clothing and chain links, polishing and cleaning the blood off the other magical accoutrements and most importantly of all hot long baths with solid filling food that is better than trail rations.

In the late afternoon Mirriana settles into the upstairs room and focuses on a elaborate bowl filled with gleaming water from the lake. As she stares into the waters the liquid surface shimmers as the scrying senor activates as she is plunged into darkness. A foetid stink rises from the bowl as the thick yellowish fog from the Riftcrawl fissure swamps Mirriana's senses. You can see and feel feet crunching on rocks and rotted mosses underfoot as Mirriana can see Celeste, Eligos and Manzorian cautiously creeping along the rift floor, a towering cliff face rising on side of them. All three look haggard, torn clothes, bloodstains  and pale and weary features. Mirriana can see that Celeste is tired, her sword belt gaping open with no blade and a strange and ancient looking spear scavenged from somewhere. Manzorian and Eligos are similarly dishevelled with empty potion belts and a Eligos missing his headband with its gleaming blue crystal ... They appear alive though however dangerous the depths of Riftcrawl fissure are as they surely follow the flow of the slime and puss streams to the depths of the Riftcrawl where the ancient Temple where Dragotha makes his lair.

As she watches for a while she can hear muttered hints of conversation between the three. Nothing of real consequence, only the small talk of 3 tired friends and companions, a warning of a sharp rock, a cautious "hold" as a shadow disturbs the fog above but nothing more serious than that....

---

As the images fade she is given to lean into her faith. Praying over the holy symbol as incense burns around her she begins to question her Goddess...
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

My heart pounds in my chest as I witness the sorry state of our friends. Mystara's answers to my increasingly desperate questions only deepen my worry. I realize, too late, that my jaw has been clenched painfully for some time. A brief, internal struggle ensues between my head and my heart, but ultimately, my fear for Celeste overpowers any other consideration. And that treacherous dragon Naximarra can wait.

"I've seen what has happened to our friends," I say, my voice trembling. "I know I said we should focus on the phylactery, but their situation is dire. Mystara herself couldn't guarantee their survival without our immediate help. And she didn't tell us to prioritize the phylactery. We must walk both paths. I have to go to them. I have to go to Celeste. Even if she herself would tell us to focus on the mission, I'd be too distracted to concentrate."

"I know you look to me for direction,' I continue, 'but in this matter, I must admit I'm emotionally compromised. If your consensus is still to seek the phylactery, I'll abide by that decision. But please, I beg you, don't make me leave her."

 
 Spoiler 

Questions:
1) Is going after Dragotha's phylactery the right choice?

2) Will taking a day to rest and rearm before pursuing it improve our chances?

3) Do Celeste and the others urgently require our help?

4) Is there any aid we can meaningfully give them without diverting from our main quest?

5) Will any of them survive if we don't go to them?

6) Would taking Naximarra with us improve our chances?

Answers:
1. Unclear which fork but both must be walked

2. Yes

3. Yes

4. No

5. Unclear

6. No. The serpent is false
 
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina had watched the scrying pool in the room with the others and placed a hand on Mirriana's shoulder giving it a comforting squeeze. Its Allustan who adds some detail in his deep voice,  " We had studied the Fissure, as much as we could before they set off. Wormcrawl Fissure is deadly in the extreme Constable. The chasm itself begins comparably shallow (apx -1,500ft or -457m, just over a quarter mile), but as it progresses along its 15-mile length, it grows deeper and deeper. At its deepest, it is rumoured to be more than a mile deep."The deepest point is said to be a mile below sea level, and the caverns that branch off from the cliffs doubtless go even deeper. Mists and clouds constantly obscure the floor of the canyon. As a result, the Wormcrawl appears to he of a uniform depth when viewed from the canyon edge a sea of toxic yellow and green swirling mists that seem to block most magics forcing one to brave it on foot. As one descends into the canyon, multiple layers of cloud and fog banks obscure the sky. The canyon floor at noon is never brighter than twilight elsewhere in the world, making for a gloomy, overcast realm on even the brightest of days. The ground is barren and rocky, dotted in places by thick copses of strange fungoid plant life adapted to the near-lightless environs. Cliffs, steep slopes, and other difficult terrain are common as one travels west. Its is the home to countless undead monstrosities, the birthplace of Kyuss spawn and the location for the dread Dracolich Drogatha's lair... It could not be more dangerous."
  He pauses to survey the heroes of the Greyhawk Arena and Tilagos.  "My Master (Manzorian), Eligos and the Lady Celeste knew the dangers. Bit they will rely on you to destroy the phylactery. Without they cannot succeed against the dracolich and it just rise once more. This time, as the knowledge has been released I'm sure he will be sending his scaled minions to retrieve it and place it beyond our grasp. That is the task Manzorian gave you." 

Before he can say anything else Zarina bangs a hand on the table with some force.   "Enough Master Mage. You are Manzorian's squire but are not our leader. Mirriana is. We will go where she leads. If she wishes to rescue Celeste then I will be treading through the depths of the Fissure by her side."   She sighs,   "The Phylactery must be destroyed, even your Own Goddess has said that but its unlcear what we must do first."  
 
 
  
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "It's seldom wise to ignore the council of wizards, Zarina."   Donal says.   "But in this case I agree with you."   He turns towards Mirriana and shakes his head.   "Captain, I would not argue to ignore the peril of an ally, even more so your partner. But they knew the dangers they faced when they left? And they trusted you to seek out your own quest on the Isle."  
  "You have my sword, and that hasn't changed, I will follow you where you lead. I would think less of you if this decision  didn't  tear at you. I can see you truly care for her."   He says, trying to comfort her and then laughs with a sudden realization.   "To the Nines with this dragon!"   He shouts and stands.   "What weak mewlings we are, trying to dissuade a hero from rescuing their love? Damn the consequences, I'll ride with you to hell's heart itself and spit on any who stand in our way."   He says and slams his sword into the table.
Auranghzeb
Makavoy keeps silent for the whole conversation. In the past few days since he met these powerful allies he has walked a fine line with them, sometimes because of his arrogance, but mainly because of Acererak's influence. He does not want to insult them further. Moreover, the information of Mirriana's personal interests complicate things further for the others.

Not for Makavoy, though. If anything, it makes it clearer: Love cannot be the driving force of a leader in times like these. It makes them unfit to lead by bestowing blindness, and the oracle itself has said there's no useful aid we could bring them.


He finally decides to speak, his illumian sigils glowing strong.

 I disagree with this course of action. You have my sympathies and I understand how difficult must this decision be, but there are times when a voice of sincerity and harsh truth is needed: If we don't destroy the phylactery, an danger your friends take, any outcome of our efforts so far, will be meaningless.

The hard truth is your best chance to provide meaningful help is to take the other path. No oracle can change that which you know is true.

I must say this.

However, it would be futile to go on my own. I'll go with you, but I think it is a mistake we may regret dearly.  
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    
 "It is clear we must progress both paths to prevail. Are we stronger together, with our comrades Celeste, Manzorian and Eligos? Or can they use to their benefit the distraction that lures Dragotha's forces to the phylactery? I have faith that we can stand true against this black tide. I don't know Celeste and the wizards as well as you, but I have faith that they are strong also. And that they trust us to do our part.

I'm no sage-priest but it seems this phylactery is important enough to Dragotha that it has sent it's dragon kin to retrieve it. That at least must provide some respite for Celeste. So I ask, is it even possible to kill this Dragotha without the phylactery? I am happy to make a stand against this evil, even if it only buys some time. But surely one of us at least must strike for the phylactery to make it count." 
 
 Spoiler: Info/ Actions 
 Split the party! 

Elkist is fine to go on the suicide mission to Wormcrawl herself, but strongly feels someone should try to snatch the phylactery unless there is another way to kill a dracolich.

How far apart are the two destinations and do we have magic to swiftly travel between?
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 

   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 12,  Level  16,  Init  7,  HP  109 + 22 temp/109,  Speed  30ft
 AC  32,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  30,  Fort  25,  Ref  22,  Will  25,  Base Attack Bonus  13
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +20/ +15/ +10 (+13 base, +5 str, +2 weapon) (2d6+9 (+7 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch, Magical Weapon+5 +1 longspear   +23/ +18/ +13 (+13 base, +5 str, +5 weapon) (1d8+12 (+7 str, +5 weapon),  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 (w/ Magical Vestment+5) ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield (w/ Magical Vestment+5)  (+13 Armor, +7 Shield, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 30
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +4 resistance all saves
Magic Weapon +5 (Donal)
Magic Vestment +5 (Donal)

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

 

 
 
  
DrK
Zarina nods in agreement with Elkist.   “I agree with Elkist Mirriana. Eligis and Manzorian are masters of magic and Celeste is their equal. If your vision had them alive and well that bodes well. As Elkist has said why don’t we hurry to destroy the phylactery to enable them to end Dragotha or at least we can rush to give them aid. I and I’m sure Master Mahkavoy can magically move us from the City of Giants to the cliffs above the fissure. If we are quick we can hopefully reach them before they confront Kyuss’s most powerful servant and with our joined forces we can prevail.”  

She pauses,   “Could you send to Celeste and ask them to delay their strike at his lair for a few days?”  
DrK
The day passes rapidly as riders streak towards the Free City promising to return the next morning with magical trinkets and old books and scrolls are pored over looking at the details of the Giant’s citadel and the Worm crawl fissure but little can be found.

It’s an uneasy if comfortable night in the All Seeing Eye as you plied with heavily spiced fish stew, mounds of roast vegetables and wine and beer brewed locally. Everyone seems to recognise that your quest is important and linked to that of their Master Manzorian.

In the morning Zarina awakens early like the others. After her morning callisthenics and sword play she studies her spells carefully. The choice she makes now she fears could be important later. That done and with her tattered green dress mended and cleaned as best it can be she garbs for battle. Her light chain shirt goes on over the top, the heavy greaves on her legs and thick dastana on her arms complete her armour. The swords are next. The reforged and (limited) wish repaired Sword of Aqqua feels right in her hands and a breeze surrounds her as she straps it to her back. Criss crossing with her father’s blade. That done she casts her daily rituals to seek to protect her from harm as elemental power flows into her and a glowing suit of white armour of light blooms into light around her.

That done she heads down to the inn room to greet the others who are hopefully also garbed for war. A nod to Allustan who sits near the fire warming his hands,  ”Morning Miss Zarina. I have prepared some travel magic to send you on your way. Which and where? And the blessings of the gods to travel with you.” 
Auranghzeb
Having rested, Makavoy decided to bind Balam and Zceryll. The alien mind and the foresight seemed like a good option.

He drew the symbols ad prepared the rituals.

 Balam DC 25  (1d20+13)[ 19 ] 
Zceryll DC 25  (1d20+13)[ 16 ]  


Once gathered with the others, He once again expressed his preferences.

 The phylactery is the priority. But I'll go wherever the group decides. 
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Morning, all. Praise be to Tempus on this day of battle."   The mercenary greets everyone with a casual wave, still wincing from his morning stretches.   "My senses are keen, my blade is sharpened, and I'm ready to bless your armaments, same as before. And ready to go wherever the Captain decides. Not that this doesn't seem like a lovely town..."   He says to Allustan.   "...but we've got places to be and liches to slay."  
 
 Spoiler 
Stance Active: Leaping Dragon Stance
Maneuvers Readied: Sudden Leap, Iron Heart Surge, Lightning Recovery

Spells Active: Endure Elements, Longstrider, Primal Hunter, Primal Instinct, Primal Senses, Greater Magic Weapon (sword), Magic Vestment (shield), Superior Resistance.

Spells cast on others: Magic Vestment (Mirriana) x2, Magic Vestment (Elkist) x2, Greater Magic Weapon (Mirriana), Greater Magic Weapon (Zarina), Greater Magic Weapon (Elkist), Greater Resistance (Makavoy)
 
DrK
As the heroes assemble in the cool morning air in the square there is a surprise awaiting you, well a surprise for all apart from Mirriana who had requested it as a large dragon with a horse sized body and massive sail sized wings lies sprawled in the fountain, its sinuous tail with a cruel barb at the end splashes in and out of the water. As its sees the various heroes appearing from the inn its eyes scan some and a cruel smile appears.
 "Mistress..."  it hisses with a low sibilant growl to Mirriana,  "you have lost the wizard, the beast and the small grumpy one... did they die painfully?"  she asks, a little glee in her reptillian features.  "I could do nothing about it could I mistress."  she adds, a glower as a claw brushes the sign of Mystara still emblazoned on her massive head.

Finally, with a yawn and a stretch as her neck and head tower above the constable  "What do you now demand from me mistress?" 
 

Nearby Zarina stands with sword in hand, the hilt casually grasped with both hands as she leans on it, point scraping the ground. She muters,   "Have a care Mirriana, she is the same beast that we fought several months ago.  I do not know if she can have changed much in that time."   She glances at the wyrm,   "My flames stand ready should you trick us."  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

The meeting remains indecisive, and I shake my head at Elkist's suggestion we split up.

"Mystara doesn't think that's a good idea", I say. But the weight of reason is beginning break through my fear and worry, and the suggestion to ask our friends to hold off on their assault seems like a reasonable compromise, especially given Mystara's assurance Celeste would respond.

"Ok..." I say cautiously. "We'll go and get the phylactery. I agree it's our primary objective. I'll use a sending to Celeste and ask them to wait for us. I'm sorry for my outburst, it's just the results of my divinations were upsetting."

With the meeting adjourned I get what rest I can and in the morning I cast the sending spell to Celeste:

"We're okay! On Tilagos time ran slowly. Going to get Phylactery. Mystara advises you don't attack yet! Wait for us all to regroup. Love you."


 


With that done and awaiting a response, it's time to check in with Naximarra. The dragon is not so intimidating compared to the other threats we've faced.

"Hello Naximarra, I hope this morning finds you well," I greet the dragon respectfully but firmly, deliberately overlooking her tone. A subtle gesture bids Zarina relax. "My former companions are attending to other matters. But you need not call me mistress. I recall I'm sure as well as you do that I included no subservience to me in the terms of your quest, and that the duration of my original compulsion upon you will have expired. That is why I sent you to Manzorian to renew and reinforce your bindings. As much as it would be helpful to me to bring your formidable might on our next mission, I am quite certain I would have to compel you further, and this I will not do. I know you will find the tasks you have been set difficult and insulting enough already. That you are still here means you have been carrying them out anyway, compulsion or not. It would have been easier for you to choose The Abyss, and I respect that you didn't. I know you would prefer to demand others respect you, even worship you. Around here such respect is earned But that's not impossible Naximarra, even for you. Remember that."

"I regret I can't stay and talk more. I have urgent arrangements to cast a much more powerful dragon than you into the hells to make. I'll find you again on my return."

I don't emphasize the word "find" as I nod a respectful farewell, but it's there.
DrK
Its a sombre moment as they walk away from the save looking (if now better behaved) black scaled dragon. Zarina offers Mirriana a comforting hug briefly and a whispered,   "Celeste is strong, the strongest woman I've met. She will survive the Wormcrawl fissure. If anyone can she will."   That said Zarina then looks serious as she pulls out the reformed glittering and ancient Sword of Aqaa, the blade shining in the reflections from the water. She grins a thin smile looking at Mirriana, Mahkavoy, Elkist and Donal, b "Stay close, I will take us as close as I'm able from the maps I studied. We should arrive on the cliffs above Kongen-THulnir."  She'll wait for the others to nod and make ready before she seizes Elkist and Mirriana's hands and waits for them to bring Mahkavoy and Donal into the circle before she casts her conjuration....

 Casts greater teleport 

There is a sudden ripping feeling, a darkening of mind and soul as each of you feels a great wrenching from your midriff before you all stumble landing with a thud in dusty stone and grass.  A blazing hot wind blows past you revealing an arid wasteland broken only by the occasional rock formation or copse of scrub oaks stretches to the horizon in all directions save one. In this direction, the land drops away into the immense gulf of the Rift Canyon. It stretches as far as the eye can see to the east and west, a boggling gash in the face of the world. The wind blowing over the strange rock formations perched on the canyon’s lips makes a hollow moaning sound. You stand some 40ft from the edge of this titanic gash in the earth where swirling clouds and mists block the murky depths of the chasm from view.

One hundred feet below the top of the cliff, an immense ruined city of stone lies nestled in a wide, open cavern. Hundreds of multi-leveled buildings and towers rise inside this cavern, creating a vertical cityscape of spires, battlements, and stone bridges. Spires of rock protruding precariously from the cliff’s lower face rise up before the cityscape. Some of these spires are barren, capped only by the odd bush or rock formation, but two support large castles of their own, and connect to the main city via slender bridges of stone. Smoke rises from several parts of the ruined city, and many of the buildings are recently damaged or destroyed. The source of this damage is readily apparent, for the city of Kongen-Thulnir is under siege by dragons. Even as you watch you can see thin wires trailing from spire to spire and dangling loose and torn from the rock face. large humanoid figures on some of the towers launch ballista's into the sky trailing heavy chains at what must be over a dozen dragons swooping and turning in the air as they swoop down above the city blasting clouds of black acidic gas or crackling lines of arcing lightning! Even as you watch a dragon is hammered by a pair of ballista bolts and rolls belly over plunging from view into the mist trailing chains!

 
 

The only land route into Kongen-Thulnir is a thirty-foot-wide ledge that winds down from the edge of the Rift Canyon above, the pathway down some 400ft south of where you have landed on the wasteland. Access to Kongen-Thulnir via this ledge is controlled by the gate here, a forty-foot-tall, two-story structure made of bronzewood poles bound with heavy chains. A sixty-foot tower with a battlement roof and many loopholes watches over the area, a pair of dead blue dragons lie crumpled by the gate that still smokes from the tower and, with their keen eyes Donal and Elkist can make out the shapes of huamnoid forms clustered along the tower walls and gatehouse. Although as you are small, and close to the ground they do not appear to have seen you yet.

Taking in the scene, with winged forms swoopig down on the parts of the ruined city Zarina just looks at Mirriana and Elkist and sighs,   "Make ready, this will not be easy!"  
Auranghzeb
Makavoy takes in the scene of siege and danger.

 Quick! I'm sure these wyrms have some sort of blindsense, but we still need some misdirection! 

He says as he casts Mass Invisibility almost as a reaction!


 This should at least give us some time to plan out ahead... 

His robe of eyes sees everyone and everything around.
Chambers
 Donal Ren 

Though surprised at her change of heart Donal keeps silent about her decision.   Not an easy choice to make.   His stomach lurches at the teleport and he takes a few deep breathes to steady himself afterwards.   Hate that.  

He surveys the battlefield and battle before them.   "We cannot confront both sides of this fight. We must choose sides."   He chuckles as the dragon gets bolted by the siege weapons.   "I think we've a better chance of dealing fair with the giants than the wyrms. We could try to sneak into their hold...which would go poorly I think. Or we could attempt to gain their favor by taking down a dragon."  
DrK
      
     Zarina    

Zarina ducks as a winged reptile with a wingspan topping some 100ft swoops overhead a fain explosion from within the rim of the canyon as a building in the rift is pulverized to rubble by the dazzling blast. Looking around Zarina, like the others, can see mostly green, black and blue dragons soaring and banking around. A smattering of white an other chromatic colours visible but so many... its the stuff of nightmares.  As the wave of invisibility washes over them and she loses sight of the others she reaches out a hand to clutch Mirriana's shoulder for some support.

A moment later a muttering under her breath and a series of (unseen  by most) blue scales rises from her skin to give her a sapphire appearance. Whispering to the other she also nods towards the gate.   "Come, if we must move, best move quickly. Hopefully we can close on the gate without being noticed. "   If the others agree she'll start moving swiftly over the broken ground heading towards the distant gates watching the sky cautiously but thankfully more of the dragons are lower the canyon rim strafing, banking and wheeling around the two suspended rocky bulwarks and the main body of the city

As the party closes to some 120ft from the gate, the walls you see are massive! Forty feet of heavy set stone with a stout palisade roof atop which are at least 8 heavy set hill giants clutching clubs and spears and garbed in crude armour. In the watchtower that hugs the edge of the canyon another pair of hill giants work the massive ballista loading and preparing for another dragon's strafing run. You can also all see that the bronze plated gates are not intact and lie slightly ajar, an impact and bend from one where one of the downded dragons seems to have crashed directly into the structure bending the massive gates and leaving a gap some 4ft wide (far too small for a giant but large enough for most people) to sneak through if one was so minded!

 OOC
Cast Dragonskin
Draw Blade of Aqaa

 
 
 
  
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    

After taking a moment to cast some wardings on each of the party members, Elkist begins to move forward. Invisibly she approaches the gatehouse to see if there really is an unobstructed way to progress towards their goal.

 
 Spoiler: Info/ Actions 
Cast Protection from Energy (electricity, or other if desired) on everyone (120 hp/ 120 mins).
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 

   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 12,  Level  16,  Init  7,  HP  109 + 22 temp/109,  Speed  30ft
 AC  32,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  30,  Fort  25,  Ref  22,  Will  25,  Base Attack Bonus  13
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +20/ +15/ +10 (+13 base, +5 str, +2 weapon) (2d6+9 (+7 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch, Magical Weapon+5 +1 longspear   +23/ +18/ +13 (+13 base, +5 str, +5 weapon) (1d8+12 (+7 str, +5 weapon),  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 (w/ Magical Vestment+5) ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield (w/ Magical Vestment+5)  (+13 Armor, +7 Shield, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 30
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +4 resistance all saves
Magic Weapon +5 (Donal)
Magic Vestment +5 (Donal)

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Protection from Energy (electricity) 120hp

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

 

 
 
  
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"Better make that acid as well," I suggest to Donal, spying the black and green dragons around us.

"I agree, we have more chance at least attempting to deal with the giants. Let's help them out if we can! I don't think it'll be a helpful to earn their trust to just appear inside their defences, we should break Invisibility at a reasonable distance and attack any dragons that come within range!"
Chambers
 Donal Ren 
  "Maybe we try sneaking up on one before losing this cover?"   Donal asks as they move. He casts his own warding to match Zarina's and then bends down to tighten the laces on his new boots.   "Either way, I'm ready."   He says, sword and shield in hand.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Barkskin on himself, activating Winged Boots (Fly for 5 minutes).

Donal Ren
AC: 42 (Additional +5 vs ranged attacks; Deflect Arrows 1/round)
HP: 196/196

Speed: 30ft land, 40ft Fly
Fort +30
Ref +16
Will +21

Stance Active: Leaping Dragon Stance
Maneuvers Readied: Sudden Leap, Iron Heart Surge, Lightning Recovery

Spells Active: Barkskin, Fly, Endure Elements, Longstrider, Primal Hunter, Primal Instinct, Primal Senses, Greater Magic Weapon (sword), Magic Vestment (shield), Superior Resistance.

Spells Active cast by others: Protection from Energy (electricity or acid?)

Spells cast on others: Magic Vestment (Mirriana) x2, Magic Vestment (Elkist) x2, Greater Magic Weapon (Mirriana), Greater Magic Weapon (Zarina), Greater Magic Weapon (Elkist), Greater Resistance (Makavoy)
 
DrK
The party shrouded in their cloak of invisibility slowly advance down the cliff top path towards the massive gates. Ahead the massive city, epic in proportions clings to the edge of the ravine walls, a pair of isolated citadels linked by stone arches to the cliff walls as they are balanced on massive spears of rock that thrust upwards from the thick layer of fog that hangs a few hundred feet below the ravine lip giving the whole city of floating in fog.

The heroes cluster together, whispers and hands resting on invisible shoulders keeping most linked as they move closer, auras of magic flaring into life amongst you all. The first of the dragon corpses is reached without incident, the 12000lb of dead blue dragon some 30ft long and missing a forearm and a wing where the massive wires have torn it away also has three massive barbed bolts each the size of a tree trunk embedded in its chest. Crouched by the corpse, some 50ft from the gate, where another massive reptillian shape is crumpled you can all see a massive bearded white skinned helmed giant clutching an axe rimed with ice standing atop the gateway directing the action of some 8 crude fur clad hill giants who twist and turn large ballista skywards as they launch bolts at a pair of massive winged shapes, one green and one black that are swopping down towards them....

 
You are 50ft from the 40ft high walls and gates that have a frost giant and 8 hill giants atop the gate house and in the tower

A large green dragon and a huge black dragon are 300ft away from the gate (~240ft from you guys as they are flying from your direction towards the gatehouse) some 60ft up currently
With what you know of dragons their blindsense will spot you at if they maintain that altitude

 
RCgothic
 Mirriana 

"They're going to locate us!" I warn as the dragons begin their strafing run against the gates on a path that will take them overhead. "I'm going to try and ground them!"

Watching the dragons' approach carefully, I wait for the optimum moment to strike: " Downdraft! Quickened Anti-Dragon Aura "

 
 Spoiler 

Anti-dragon aura gives everyone a +4 luck bonus to AC and saves against dragons. Duration 15 minutes.

Downdraft causes a creature to fall 100ft immediately, or 50ft if they make their save, with damage if they hit the ground. Reflex DC20 if spell resistance penetrated. Aiming to bring them down within reach of the party.
Black dragon spell resistance penetration roll:  (1d20+15)[ 28 ] 
Green dragon spell resistance penetration roll:  (1d20+15)[ 18 ] 
 
Ghostfoot
      
     Elkist Talphrin    
 "I have your back Mirriana!" . As the cleric begins her spellcasting Elkist steps in close and braces her spear to ward her companion from any close attacks.

 
 Spoiler: Info/ Actions 
Guard Mirriana with reach weapon. Readied action to buff &amp; attack any punk dragon that comes close.

Swift: Law devotion +7 attack
Longpear  (1d20+30)[ 31 ]  damage  (1d8+12)[ 15 ] 
Longpear  (1d20+25)[ 32 ]  damage  (1d8+12)[ 17 ] 
Longpear  (1d20+20)[ 30 ]  damage  (1d8+12)[ 16 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 

   Elkist Talphrin   
Female LG Half-Drow Paladin 4/ Spirit Shaman 12,  Level  16,  Init  7,  HP  109 + 22 temp/109,  Speed  30ft
 AC  32,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  30,  Fort  25,  Ref  22,  Will  25,  Base Attack Bonus  13
 Ghost touch Lightning Sword   +20/ +15/ +10 (+13 base, +5 str, +2 weapon) (2d6+9 (+7 str, +2 weapon), 19-20 x2)
 Ghost touch, Magical Weapon+5 +1 longspear   +23/ +18/ +13 (+13 base, +5 str, +5 weapon) (1d8+12 (+7 str, +5 weapon),  )
 Ghost touch +1 Batorian green steel Hand axe     ( ,  )
 Ghost touch Mithral Full plate of speed +3 (w/ Magical Vestment+5) ,  Ghost touch +1 Animated heavy steel shield (w/ Magical Vestment+5)  (+13 Armor, +7 Shield, +2 Dex)
 Abilities  Str 20, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 12, Cha 30
 Condition  Permanent/ daily effects:

Pal: Aura of good
Pal: Aura of courage (immune fear, allies +4 morale bonus vs fear)
Pal: Divine health (immunity to disease)
SS: Ghost warrior (ghost touch weapons &amp; armour)
1/2E: Immunity to sleep
1/2E: +2 save vs enchantment
1/2E: low light vision
Armour crystal: +3 competence save vs energy drain, death spells/ effects, inflict spells)
Circlet: +6 enhancement to Cha
Belt: +4 enhancement to Str
Armbands: +2 Str checks &amp; skills, +2 damage on Power attack)
Mirriana: Imbue with Spell Ability
Boots: +10ft enhancement speed, +5 competence Jump
Cloak: +4 resistance all saves
Magic Weapon +5 (Donal)
Magic Vestment +5 (Donal)

Hour+ effects:

Heart of Earth (spell): +8 resist bull rush, overrun, trip; +22 temp hp
Heart of Air (spell): +10 enhance Jump
SS: Blessing of the spirits (protection from spirits: +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
SS: Warding of the spirits (magic circle vs spirits:10ft radius +2 defl AC, +2 resist Saves)
Primal instinct (wand): +5 competence initiative &amp; survival
Protection from Energy (electricity) 120hp

Minute+ effects (not included in stats):

Round+ effects:

 

 
 
  