Courts of the Shadow Fey (Rune Stones Part V - 4e)

Game Master Rev Rosey

applause

This is the kind of enemy Kia feels she can really deal with and she proves it in style as her arrows break through the demon lord's defenses and render him vulnerable to all her allies. Almost in passing, she frees Whiteclaw from the encircling roaches and heals Arianwyn, while out of the corner of her eye, she too notices the glowing thing at the back of the cave.

MAP

Non-roaches starting their turn adjacent to the pillars are grabbed.

Servitors have an aura 1. Enemies starting their turn in the aura take 5.

Engulf - engulfed creatures share the same space as Akyishigal and remain in his space when he moves. Engulfed creatures may not make OAs and have no line of sight or line of effect to anything other than Akyishigal. On a save, the engulfed creature slides to a square of its choice adjacent to Akyishigal.

Consecrated Ground. Bloodied allies within the zone heal 5hp at the start of their turn. Enemies take 1d6+4=10 radiant if they start their turn in the zone.

ALL -
to start Kia's next turn, everyone is at +4 to attacks on the Akyishigal.
to start Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -2 penalty to all melee attacks
to end Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -4 penalty to all area and ranged attacks TEOMNT
to end Kia's next turn, all attack rolls against Akyishigal are crits on 18-20 TEOMNT

Whiteclaw - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); 5 damage at start of turn (servitor aura)
Servitor 1 - cursed
Servitor 2
Servitor 3
Servitor 4
Servitor 6 - -2 attacks to end Arianwyn's next turn; cursed
Chary - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura)
Ixu - BLOODIED; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); filth fever; 5 damage at start of turn (servitor aura); grabbed by W1 (escape ends); slowed (se); prone
Warrior 1
Warrior 2
Warrior 3
Warrior 7
Warrior 8
Tutavak - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura)
Akyishigal - 10 radiant at start of turn (conc. ground); immobilised to end Whiteclaw's next turn; marked by Whiteclaw; cursed; -2 to attacks to end Arianwyn's next turn; see various Kia effects above
Abyssal Cockroach - -2 to melee attacks and -4 to ranged and area attacks to end Kia's next turn
Reason - 55/79; 8/9 surges; 1AP (used Conc Ground); +2 all defenses to start next turn (used second wind); takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura);
Arianwyn - +2 all defenses to start next turn (used second wind); used AP
Kia - used AP

Thank you!

Arianwyn turns to Kia, "Did you not notice my mind-shattering howl just then? Get over it, indeed!"

This could be a complex turn for me.

Whiteclaw dances around Aky, the gnoll having a strategy in mind.

Move: K13, L12, M12. Draw OA from S2 and Aky, with Aky's being a -4.

Once in position, her axe flashes at Aky.

Grasping Winds vs Aky. Targets AC. 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (19) + 19 = 38. Hit. Crit thanks to Kia. Damage: 17 + 2d10 + 3d6 ⇒ 17 + (6, 1) + (5, 1, 6) = 36 cold damage. In addition, I can pull all enemies within 3 squares of me two squares - here's where the complex comes in.

Pulls: Aky - no move. Pull W8 to M14. Pull S6 to L12. Pull S4 to M12. Mark Aky, W8, S4, S6, AC.

Whiteclaw's not done, though. Now that she has reshaped the battlefield, she attacks again.

AP. From Cold Snap Action, Aky, AC, S4, S6, and W8 takes 6 cold damage. I also have +1 to hit with cold powers until EOMNT. Now, apoligies to some PCs, but friendly fire is needed here. Rime Shackles vs Aky. 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (13) + 20 = 33. Hit. 1d10 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14 cold damage and Aky is immobilized until the end of my next turn.

I'm planning a close blast 3 for next turn, so try and get out of range if you're a friendly.

HP:93/123 (Ixu: 36/79)
Surges: 13/13 (Ixu: 11/12)
AP: 0/1
Enc Used: Grasping Winds, Rime Shackles(Ixu: Dragon's Onslaught.
Daily Remaining: Winters Grip, Form of the Stone Sentinel, Returning the Gift, Guardian's Attack
Status:+1 AC, marked Aky, AC, S4, S6, W8., +1 to hit with cold powers until EOMNT (Ixu: Bloodied)

Whiteclaw and Kia, for critting (they are the 'targets'):
Until the end of the target’s next turn, the target gains a +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack.

Including on Whiteclaw's AP attack

Can I ascertain more about the glow?

Arianwyn then asks, "I wonder if we are to be joined by a giant glow-worm?"

Right. This is complex, so bear with me :)

Whiteclaw darts around the roaches, suffering somewhat as she does so.

OA from S2 - 1d20+13=33. Crit. Pah. 10 poison damage and Whiteclaw is grabbed as though by Aky to start S2's next turn.
OA from Aky - 1d20+16=32. Hits. 1d12+6=10 plus 5 ongoing necro (se)
25 damage to Whiteclaw and 5 ongoing necro (se)

Nonetheless, she holds firm and ice follows the path of her axe as roaches freeze and shatter.

That wipes out S4, S6 and W8. S4 and S6 explode pustulantly (nearly typed petulantly) over Whiteclaw, Reason, Chary, Tutavak and Ixu
v Fort.
1d20+11=16 - S4 v Whiteclaw. Miss.
1d20+11=31 - S4 v Reason. Hits. 7 damage
1d20+11=18 - S4 v Chary. Miss.
1d20+11=29 - S4 v Tutavak. Hits. 7 damage
1d20+11=27 - S4 v Ixu. Hits. 7 damage
1d20+9=14 - S6 v Whiteclaw. Miss.
1d20+9=20 - S6 v Reason. Hits. 7 damage
1d20+9=28 - S6 v Chary. Hits. 7 damage
1d20+9=15 - S6 v Tutavak. Miss.
1d20+9=11 - S6 v Ixu. Miss.
14 damage to Reason
7 damage to Thutavak, Ixu and Chary.

The servitor in the radiant glow explodes as the light bites into it, showing the friends with more repulsive goo.

Pustulant Innards again (Fort). Close burst 2
Targets Chary, Tutavak and Whiteclaw
1d20+11=30 - S2 v Chary. Hits. 7 damage
1d20+11=30 - S2 v Tutavak. Hits. 7 damage
1d20+11=25 - S2 v Whiteclaw. Hits. 7 damage

Damage totals this turn:
32 plus 5 ongoing necro to Whiteclaw
14 to Reason
14 to Chary
14 to Tutavak
7 to Ixu

Arianwyn - cursed enemy dropped and you may bingle. If you want to investigate the source of the mystery glow, you'll need to get closer.

MAP

Non-roaches starting their turn adjacent to the pillars are grabbed.

Servitors have an aura 1. Enemies starting their turn in the aura take 5.

Engulf - engulfed creatures share the same space as Akyishigal and remain in his space when he moves. Engulfed creatures may not make OAs and have no line of sight or line of effect to anything other than Akyishigal. On a save, the engulfed creature slides to a square of its choice adjacent to Akyishigal.

Consecrated Ground. Bloodied allies within the zone heal 5hp at the start of their turn. Enemies take 1d6+4=10 radiant if they start their turn in the zone.

ALL -
to start Kia's next turn, everyone is at +4 to attacks on the Akyishigal.
to start Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -2 penalty to all melee attacks
to end Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -4 penalty to all area and ranged attacks TEOMNT
to end Kia's next turn, all attack rolls against Akyishigal are crits on 18-20 TEOMNT

Chary - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura)
Ixu - BLOODIED; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); filth fever; 5 damage at start of turn (servitor aura); grabbed by W1 (escape ends); slowed (se); prone
Warrior 1
Warrior 2
Warrior 3
Warrior 7
Tutavak - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura)
Akyishigal - 10 radiant at start of turn (conc. ground); immobilised to end Whiteclaw's next turn; marked by Whiteclaw; cursed; -2 to attacks to end Arianwyn's next turn; see various Kia effects above
Abyssal Cockroach - -2 to melee attacks and -4 to ranged and area attacks to end Kia's next turn
Reason - 41/79; 8/9 surges; 1AP (used Conc Ground); +2 all defenses to start next turn (used second wind); takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura);
Arianwyn - +2 all defenses to start next turn (used second wind); used AP
Kia - used AP; to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack
Whiteclaw - used AP; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); 5 damage at start of turn (servitor aura); to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack; 5 ongoing necro (se); +1 to hit with cold powers to end next turn
Servitor 1 - cursed

HP:61/123 (Ixu: 29/79)
Surges: 13/13 (Ixu: 11/12)
AP: 0/1
Enc Used: Grasping Winds, Rime Shackles(Ixu: Dragon's Onslaught.
Daily Remaining: Winters Grip, Form of the Stone Sentinel, Returning the Gift, Guardian's Attack
Status:+1 AC, marked Aky, AC, S4, S6, W8., +1 to hit with cold powers until EOMNT, +3 fire damage, 2 speed, +2 reflex EOMNT, Bloodied, ongoing 5 necro (se) (Ixu: Bloodied)

Teleport to E13 - Misty Step.

HP:71/81
Surges: 6/8
AP: 0/1
Enc Used: Second Wind, Otherwind Stride, Hexblast
Dailies Used: Fiendish Resilience

Crouched in a darkened corner of the cave, Arianwyn sees the hunched form of a firebird, doing its utmost to remain inconspicuous. In this noxious place, the golden light that surrounds it is dimmed, but the bird yet lives.

Arianwyn's eyes widen.

He brings an elegant finger to his lips and makes the universal "shhh" gesture to the bird.

The round eye flickers slightly in acknowledgement.

Chary is impressed by the actions of her new teammates, and tries to be as successful. She instills the Specter of Doubt on Aky, and then shifts North one square. She will then heal Whiteclaw, unless Whiteclaw doesn't want it.

standard action: Specter of Doubt:
Daily Fear, Psionic, Psychic, Weapon
Primary Target: Aky
Charisma vs. Will 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (5) + 18 = 23
Hit: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14psychic damage. Whenever Aky makes an attack, it takes 10 psychic damage (save ends).
Miss: Whenever Aky makes an attack, it takes 5 psychic damage (save ends).
Each Failed Saving Throw: You can make the following secondary attack as a free action.
Secondary Target: One creature within 3 squares of the primary target
Secondary Attack: Charisma vs. Will
Hit: The secondary target is dazed (save ends).

move action: Shift to J14.
minor action: ardent surge: healing surge + 3d6 ⇒ (2, 3, 2) = 7 and +2 to speed UEMNT

if Whiteclaw uses the healing, then one other character can regains hitpoints as if they had spent a healing surge (as an immediate reaction for me)...your choice for who needs it.

Chary darts backwards and reveals the dark heart of her power to Akyishigal. Strong though his will is, he cannot fend off all of her attack and his multiple minds reel under the onslaught.

The pillar clinging roaches reach out for the drow and hold her close.

Miss, but the secondary effects are still working.

MAP

Non-roaches starting their turn adjacent to the pillars are grabbed.

Servitors have an aura 1. Enemies starting their turn in the aura take 5.

Engulf - engulfed creatures share the same space as Akyishigal and remain in his space when he moves. Engulfed creatures may not make OAs and have no line of sight or line of effect to anything other than Akyishigal. On a save, the engulfed creature slides to a square of its choice adjacent to Akyishigal.

Consecrated Ground. Bloodied allies within the zone heal 5hp at the start of their turn. Enemies take 1d6+4=10 radiant if they start their turn in the zone.

ALL -
to start Kia's next turn, everyone is at +4 to attacks on the Akyishigal.
to start Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -2 penalty to all melee attacks
to end Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -4 penalty to all area and ranged attacks TEOMNT
to end Kia's next turn, all attack rolls against Akyishigal are crits on 18-20 TEOMNT

Ixu - BLOODIED; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); filth fever; 5 damage at start of turn (servitor aura); grabbed by W1 (escape ends); slowed (se); prone
Warrior 1
Warrior 2
Warrior 3
Warrior 7
Tutavak - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura)
Akyishigal - 10 radiant at start of turn (conc. ground); immobilised to end Whiteclaw's next turn; marked by Whiteclaw; cursed; -2 to attacks to end Arianwyn's next turn; see various Kia effects above; takes 5 psychic when he attacks (se)
Abyssal Cockroach - -2 to melee attacks and -4 to ranged and area attacks to end Kia's next turn
Reason - 41/79; 8/9 surges; 1AP (used Conc Ground); +2 all defenses to start next turn (used second wind); takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura);
Arianwyn - +2 all defenses to start next turn (used second wind); used AP
Kia - used AP; to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack
Whiteclaw - used AP; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); 5 damage at start of turn (servitor aura); to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack; 5 ongoing necro (se); +1 to hit with cold powers to end next turn
Servitor 1 - cursed
Chary - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); grabbed (escape ends)

Whiteclaw will take the healing and if no pc is in danger, Ixu can take the second dose

The little dragon stands up and then breathes over the warriors.

Breath weapon vs W1 and W2, targets reflex. W1: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (7) + 13 = 20 and W2: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (4) + 13 = 17, on hit: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9 cold damage.

HP:101/123 (Ixu: 19/79)
Surges: 12/13 (Ixu: 11/12)
AP: 0/1
Enc Used: Grasping Winds, Rime Shackles(Ixu: Dragon's Onslaught.
Daily Remaining: Winters Grip, Form of the Stone Sentinel, Returning the Gift, Guardian's Attack
Status:+1 AC, marked Aky, AC, S4, S6, W8., +1 to hit with cold powers until EOMNT, +3 fire damage, 2 speed, +2 reflex EOMNT, ongoing 5 necro (se) (Ixu: Bloodied)

Ixu rises and huffs cold air of the nearby roachlings, but the creatures brush aside her attack.

Need saves for Ixu from the slow and an escape attempt as well.

Grabbing at the little dragon, the roachling warriors try to her down once more while the remainder cluster around Chary.

W1 and W2 both attack Ixu.
Filthy claw (AC). Auto hit on grabbed target.
6 damage each.
12 damage to Ixu.

W3 and W7 both attack Chary.
Auto hit as she is grabbed.
6 damage each
12 damage to Chary

MAP

Non-roaches starting their turn adjacent to the pillars are grabbed.

Servitors have an aura 1. Enemies starting their turn in the aura take 5.

Engulf - engulfed creatures share the same space as Akyishigal and remain in his space when he moves. Engulfed creatures may not make OAs and have no line of sight or line of effect to anything other than Akyishigal. On a save, the engulfed creature slides to a square of its choice adjacent to Akyishigal.

Consecrated Ground. Bloodied allies within the zone heal 5hp at the start of their turn. Enemies take 1d6+4=10 radiant if they start their turn in the zone.

ALL -
to start Kia's next turn, everyone is at +4 to attacks on the Akyishigal.
to start Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -2 penalty to all melee attacks
to end Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -4 penalty to all area and ranged attacks TEOMNT
to end Kia's next turn, all attack rolls against Akyishigal are crits on 18-20 TEOMNT

Tutavak - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura)
Akyishigal - 10 radiant at start of turn (conc. ground); marked by Whiteclaw; cursed; -2 to attacks to end Arianwyn's next turn; see various Kia effects above; takes 5 psychic when he attacks (se)
Abyssal Cockroach
Reason - 41/79; 8/9 surges; 1AP (used Conc Ground); +2 all defenses to start next turn (used second wind); takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura);
Arianwyn - +2 all defenses to start next turn (used second wind); used AP
Kia - used AP; to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack
Whiteclaw - used AP; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack; 5 ongoing necro (se); +1 to hit with cold powers to end next turn
Servitor 1 - cursed
Chary - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); grabbed (escape ends)
Ixu - BLOODIED; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); filth fever; grabbed by W1 (escape ends); slowed (se)
Warrior 1
Warrior 2
Warrior 3
Warrior 7

Minor: Quarry Ak. Free/minor:Switch to longspear. Standard: Sunspray Dance vs Ak, radiant damage, with quarry and Kia bonus.

1d20 + 16 + 4 ⇒ (9) + 16 + 4 = 291d10 + 7 + 2d6 ⇒ (3) + 7 + (5, 4) = 19

Probably a regular hit, for 19 radiant. AP. Soulfire on self, Whiteclaw, and Ixu: Until the end of the target’s next turn, the target gains a +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals 3 extra fire damage.
Sunspray Dance again:

1d20 + 16 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 16 + 4 = 331d10 + 7 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 7 + 3 = 20

Another 17 radiant and 3 fire.

Tutavak's lance whirls in his hands casting flickering radiance on his allies even as he stabs the demon lord twice with white flames.

Tutavak's spear drives deep into the demon and he explodes outwards, breaking into myriad scuttling, poisonous roach swarms.

Bloodied. Explodes into Rotting Swarm form. Immediate attack v Ref close burst 2. On hit, target takes 10 ongoing necro (se)
Targets Ixu, Tutavak, Whiteclaw and Chary
1d20+17=29 v Ixu. Hits.
1d20+15=30 v Tutavak. Hits.
1d20+15=32 v Whiteclaw. Hits.
1d20+17=35 v Chary. Hits.
5d8+7=35
35 damage Tutavak and Whiteclaw plus 10 ongoing necro (se)
Extra 2d8=12 for 47 total damage to Chary and Ixu (Aky gains +2d8 damage against enemies he has CA against and they're both grabbed)

As the roaches settle, the venom of the demon lord exerts itself once more, reaching greedily for the companions in reach.

Swarm of Filth (AC); on hit target is grabbed
minor action v Whiteclaw
1d20+20=30. Hits. 14 damage and grabbed
minor action v Tutavak
1d20+18=26. Hits. 14 damage and grabbed
Extra minor action while bloodied:
Swarm of filth v Chary
1d20+18=20. Miss.
14 damage to Whiteclaw and Tutavak

Skittish Charge. Abyssal Cockroach moves its speed and can move through medium or smaller creatures spaces. If it moves through an occupied space, it attacks (only one attack per target). Attack is v Ref and on hit, target is knocked prone.
Targets Whiteclaw, Tutavak, Reason and Kia
1d20+17=35 v Whiteclaw. Hits.
1d20+17=18 v Tutavak. Miss.
1d20+17=36 v Reason. Hits.
1d20+17=26 v Kia. Hits.
4d12+10=37 damage
[b]37 damage to Whiteclaw, Reason and Kia and they are all knocked prone.

Tutavak, Whiteclaw and Reason get OAs. Ixu is unconscious and does not.

OA for Reason: 1d20+9=26. Miss.

Prone and bleeding heavily, Reason calls on his goddess to avert the carnage unfolding around him. Staggering to his feet, he does his best to wipe out the roaches.

Divine Glow (Ref). Close Blast 3. Targets various Akyishigal fragments (J12, K12, L12, K13, K14, L14) and includes Chary and Tutavak who get a +2 to attacks against Aky to end Reason's next turn
1d20+13=15 v J12 fragment. Miss.
1d20+13=26 v K12 fragment. Miss.
1d20+13=17 v L12 fragment. Miss.
1d20+13=20 v K13 fragment. Miss.
1d20+13=31 v K14 fragment. Hits.
1d20+13=32 v L14 fragment. Hits.
K14 and L14 fragments fry and die.

Aware that he and his friends may not live to make terms, the tiefling draws on his most potent powers of healing.

AP. Mass Cure Light wounds. Allies in close burst 5 regain hp as though they had spent a surge plus 4. Everyone but Arianwyn benefits.

Damage total this turn:
81 to Whiteclaw plus 10 ongoing
47 to Chary plus 10 ongoing
47 to Ixu plus 10 ongoing
49 to Tutavak plus 10 ongoing
37 to Kia
37 to Reason

MAP

Non-roaches starting their turn adjacent to the pillars are grabbed.

Servitors have an aura 1. Enemies starting their turn in the aura take 5.

Engulf - engulfed creatures share the same space as Akyishigal and remain in his space when he moves. Engulfed creatures may not make OAs and have no line of sight or line of effect to anything other than Akyishigal. On a save, the engulfed creature slides to a square of its choice adjacent to Akyishigal.

Consecrated Ground. Bloodied allies within the zone heal 5hp at the start of their turn. Enemies take 1d6+4=10 radiant if they start their turn in the zone.

ALL -
to start Kia's next turn, everyone is at +4 to attacks on the Akyishigal.
to start Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -2 penalty to all melee attacks
to end Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -4 penalty to all area and ranged attacks TEOMNT
to end Kia's next turn, all attack rolls against Akyishigal are crits on 18-20 TEOMNT

Arianwyn - +2 all defenses to start next turn (used second wind); used AP
Kia - used AP; BLOODIED?; to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack; prone
Whiteclaw - used AP; BLOODIED; takes 5 damage at start of turn Aky aura); to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack; 5 ongoing necro (se); +1 to hit with cold powers to end next turn; prone
Servitor 1 - cursed
Chary - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); grabbed (escape ends); 10 ongoing necro (se)
Ixu - BLOODIED; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); filth fever; grabbed by W1 (escape ends); slowed (se); 10 ongoing necro; prone and dying
Warrior 1
Warrior 2
Warrior 3
Warrior 7
Tutavak - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); 10 ongoing necro
Akyishigal - 10 radiant at start of turn (conc. ground); marked by Whiteclaw; cursed; -2 to attacks to end Arianwyn's next turn; see various Kia effects above; takes 5 psychic when he attacks (se); 10 ongoing necro
Abyssal Cockroach
Reason - 24/79; 8/9 surges; 0AP (used Conc Ground; Mass Cure Light); BLOODIED; used second wind; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); prone

I'm sorry. Unless someone has an interrupt, Ixu is hp dead.

Minor - Curse AC. Crown of Stars vs AC's Ref - CRIT. Damage = 33 radiant damage and 16 curse damage + 3d10 = 12. Total damage = 33 radiant and 28 normal.

Arianwyn's eyes glow eerily as he sees the young dragon fall. His voice echoes as though far away in unknown canyons.

"I am the scion of Summer and Winter. In me are all seasons. You shall fall, verminous ones." he intones as a crown forms on his brow and piercing white light streams forth against the abyssal cockroach.

OA. 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (15) + 16 = 311d10 + 7 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 7 + 3 = 14

"By the terms of our bargain, you have been defeated, o loathsome shadow," Arianwyn adds in the same ominous tone, "Therefore depart."

Intimidate if needed - 20. Dark One's Own Luck - rerolled to 30.

Arianwyn and Tutavak between them bloody the giant cockroach as Akyishigal flinches under the impact of the destruction of his fragments.

"I have my gift," he hisses as roaches tumble and slither towards Ixu. "If you wish it, I will leave this foolish court. That was our bargain and I shall hold to it. For now."

If you let him go, you are out of combat.

Non-roaches starting their turn adjacent to the pillars are grabbed.

Servitors have an aura 1. Enemies starting their turn in the aura take 5.

Engulf - engulfed creatures share the same space as Akyishigal and remain in his space when he moves. Engulfed creatures may not make OAs and have no line of sight or line of effect to anything other than Akyishigal. On a save, the engulfed creature slides to a square of its choice adjacent to Akyishigal.

Consecrated Ground. Bloodied allies within the zone heal 5hp at the start of their turn. Enemies take 1d6+4=10 radiant if they start their turn in the zone.

ALL -
to start Kia's next turn, everyone is at +4 to attacks on the Akyishigal.
to start Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -2 penalty to all melee attacks
to end Kia's next turn, Akyishigal takes a -4 penalty to all area and ranged attacks TEOMNT
to end Kia's next turn, all attack rolls against Akyishigal are crits on 18-20 TEOMNT

Kia - used AP; BLOODIED?; to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack; prone
Whiteclaw - used AP; BLOODIED; takes 5 damage at start of turn Aky aura); to end next turn +2 power bonus to speed, a +2 power bonus to Reflex, and deals extra fire damage equal to your Wisdom modifier (+3) each time he or she hits with an attack; 5 ongoing necro (se); +1 to hit with cold powers to end next turn; prone
Servitor 1 - cursed
Chary - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); grabbed (escape ends); 10 ongoing necro (se)
Ixu - BLOODIED; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); filth fever; grabbed by W1 (escape ends); slowed (se); 10 ongoing necro; dead.
Warrior 1
Warrior 2
Warrior 3
Warrior 7
Tutavak - takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); 10 ongoing necro
Akyishigal - 10 radiant at start of turn (conc. ground); marked by Whiteclaw; cursed; -2 to attacks to end Arianwyn's next turn; see various Kia effects above; takes 5 psychic when he attacks (se); 10 ongoing necro
Abyssal Cockroach - BLOODIED
Reason - 24/79; 8/9 surges; 0AP (used Conc Ground; Mass Cure Light); BLOODIED; used second wind; takes 5 damage at start of turn (Aky aura); prone
Arianwyn - used second wind; used AP

Whiteclaw growls. "Yes, you shall hold to it." she says, with more then a little venom in her words.

HP:57/123
Surges: 12/13
AP: 0/1
Enc Used: Grasping Winds, Rime Shackles(Ixu: Dragon's Onslaught.
Daily Remaining: Winters Grip, Form of the Stone Sentinel, Returning the Gift, Guardian's Attack
Status:+1 AC, marked Aky, AC, S4, S6, W8., +1 to hit with cold powers until EOMNT, +3 fire damage, 2 speed, +2 reflex EOMNT, ongoing 5 necro (se)

Belatedly, the harsh psychic effects of Chary's earlier attack come to bear and another of the roach fragments falls.

Ooops. So sorry. There was a massive amount of ongoing and effect stuff in that last round and I missed out Chary's 5 psychic whenever Aky hits. Also forgot his save, which I'll do now.
1d20+2=9. No save.

EDIT: Also, Whiteclaw you are taking ongoing 10 necro as well.

"The dragon stays with us, dream of demons." Arianwyn, "Your only bargain was to depart. She is ours."

"Really? The gift is mine to keep or leave as I choose. As all carrion must be in the end."

Akyishigal's voice vibrates dangerously.

Arianwyn's voice also gains an edge, "Leave. Now. The dragon stays with us unharmed. Leave, or annihilation is your only gift."

Care to make an Intimidate roll? DC29

I'll accept two aids on this as a standard action from anyone who hasn't yet gone this turn. Kia, Whiteclaw and Chary are available.

EDIT: Aid DC is 10+half level, so DC16 in this case.

Intimidate +17 = 27. Ouch. Can someone with good Intimidate Aid me,please?

Arianwyn looks around at the carnage, "Do you really think you can stand against all of us? We have defeated greater forces than you, crawling insect."

Kia is most definitely bloodied. 13/90 HP; surges 8/8

"Just, go! That was the bargain. And I don't recall anything about 'for now'"

Kia aids Arianwyn 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (13) + 13 = 26

Kia looks sadly at Ixu then waits for the departure of Aky with his lackys.

How is everyone on the health front? If anyone is in imminent danger from ongoing damage Kia can help there too. Otherwise she will use her remaining inspiring words on the two members on lowest health (one onf which may even be her)

Just peachy. 71/81, 6/8 surges

Akyishigal cannot face down the companions.

The demon roaches gather themselves and re-form into the humanoid shape the group first saw.

"We will meet again and I will claim at least one of you to feed my teeming minions for eternity."

The demon sketches a sign in the air that sputters briefly before expanding and touching all the companions.

"Remember. You will be mine."

With his surviving roachlings forming a ragged train in his wake, he heads towards the cave wall, discorporates into his roach parts and vanishes into the crevices to be seen no more. From far above, a sea of roaches descend from the Courts and follow him, the skittering carpet gleaming in the dim light. They sway past the group, surging over Ixu and rising almost to the knees of the group before they too vanish through the crevices.

As the last insect departs, the light glows brightly once more, freed from the corrupting influence of the demon. Ixu's surprisingly small body lies battered on the floor, her treasured pearls around her neck, her eyes wide with surprise and unexpected pain.

In the far corridor the glow of the firebird grows brighter as well.

OUT OF COMBAT. Congratulations and commiserations. That was a short, but extremely nasty fight. Take 2,816XP each bringing you to a total of 34,816

Arianwyn holds out his arm to the firebird, and looks somberly at Ixu's body.

Arcana on Firebird 1d20+20 = 26

Arianwyn

Chary

"Reason, is there anything you can do for her?" the warlock asks.

Chary attempts to help intimidate Aky away as well, even though group had already been successful...perhaps he will leave quicker (and she can save some face after feeling mostly embarrassed by her performance throughout the entire fight!). After the roaches have gone, Chary faces the group with a chagrinned face.

"I have shamed myself and have not proven to be a worthy companion. I hope you will not think to lowly of me. Do any of you need any healing, I can still mend wounds for two more of you. I however don't know that there is anything I can do for brave Ixu...I will try however."

Chary walks over to the dragon and tries her best to help the little dragon...even if it is only to close her eyes with a gentle hand.

After a moment with the Dragon, Chary stands up and addresses the group again.

"I know that the Prince has been hunting mightily for a phoenix. I have heard he plans to present it to the Queen. I would rather not make an enemy of the Black Prince, as he has been kind enough while I have been under his care. However, to give this phoenix to the Queen would give us great standing and we may gain more than just her favor. As the newest (and given my performance here, probably a former) member of this group, I ask you to please consider this proposal. We may be able to compromise and save face with the Prince while gaining the queen's favor by presenting the phoenix to the Queen in the name of the Prince.

"Then again, I have heard from old stories that phoenix tears have magical healing powers. I know little of phoenix lore, but does this little creature deserve to be given as a gift? Does he get any say in his fate?

intimidate: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (16) + 18 = 34
save versus ongoing 10 necro (but have resist 10 necro from armor= 1d20 ⇒ 18

Chary still has two ardent surges to dole out if you want them...to use fewer surges...they are surge +3d6. Roll them if you want them. I don't think they will help Ixu, but if they can, then I would certainly want her to have one of them.
Did Ixu die even with the healing surge she got from Chary? I was only coming up with -31 HP, but I am not a math wiz like Reason!

Yes, Ixu was well past her hp dead point.

Saves vs Ongoing 5: 1d20 ⇒ 8 and ongoing 10: 1d20 ⇒ 15. Made the 10.

HP:52/123
Surges: 12/13
AP: 0/1
Enc Used: Grasping Winds, Rime Shackles(Ixu: Dragon's Onslaught.
Daily Remaining: Winters Grip, Form of the Stone Sentinel, Returning the Gift, Guardian's Attack
Status:Ongoing 5 necro (se)

Reason and Chary did all they could, so nobody needs to blame themselves. It could just as easily have been one of you going under. Reason does have a scroll of Raise Dead and I'm prepared to let him use it to bring Ixu back. It wouldn't be an inappropriate use for it since the group picked up shortly after meeting Ixu's father for the first time, but it's entirely your call.

Chary gently tends to Ixu, giving dignity to death before turning her attention to the firebird.

The little creature makes no sound, but is clearly listening and seems to approve of any mention of the Queen. It makes no move to fly, but rather waits expectantly.

Diplomacy checks are in order here. I'd like three please, from different people, to persuade the firebird to come with you.

Diplomacy - 1d20+15 = 28

"So, my fiery friend, you like the sound of the Queen?"

The firebird regards Arianwyn with approval. It chirrups gently and preens a wing.

Kia goes up to Chary and tells her that she shouldn't worry about one fight. "I'm sure if the fight had gone on longer, you would have shone too. Nobody's going to judge you on one short battle. Besides, I don't think any of us think about worthiness or not when we fight. We just want to get it over with, with all of us intact. Alas, we didn't quite succeed in that this time. I hope we can do something for Ixu, she was good to have around."

"I'm sorry I haven't spoken much to you. I find it hard to be relaxed with new people, especially if I meet them in a Fey court. But we'll get along."

Chary appreciates Kia's words, and after the peptalk, Chary heads over to the phoenix and whispers a few quiet words in her ear. Although no one else can hear her words, it is clear her approach is less friendly banter, and more quiet inquiry and reassurance.

diplomacy check: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (10) + 16 = 26

After speaking with the phoenix, she heads back to Kia.
"Thanks for your input. I really don't feel so horrible, but I am used to excelling at everything I do. I know that survival is the most important part of the day...losing Ixu brought that home today. In the short time I knew her, I admired her pluck! Don't worry, I will not usually be so dramatic, but as you said, it is hard to perform up to your regular standards with a new team."

The Kargzant stands by Ixu's body, head bowed. The apparition some have seen before -- an adolescent Kargzant girl -- appears on the other side, also bowed. Their lips move silently in a chant, apparently in unison. After a few minutes, they raise her heads, look at each other, then the image of the girl winks out.

"I am sorry, Whiteclaw."

As before the Firebird appears to listen. Wide golden eyes absorb whatever Chary has to say and she sees clearly what a beautiful creature this is.

Chary

I think we should save Reason's scroll for a PC, should we lose one. Oh, and Font of Life: 1d20 ⇒ 20 and normal: 1d20 ⇒ 16 saves against the necro 5. Made it.

Whiteclaw slings her shield over her back, then lifts the body of her adopted daughter, cradling it. "There is no need for sorrow, Tutavak, she died well. Chary, don't blame yourself, either. There will be a second battle with that creature. We will choose the ground for that one, ground that doesn't favor it so well, and it will die."

HP:118/123
Surges: 10/13
AP: 0/1
Enc Used: Grasping Winds, Rime Shackles(Ixu: Dragon's Onslaught.
Daily Remaining: Winters Grip, Form of the Stone Sentinel, Returning the Gift, Guardian's Attack
Status:

I'm happy for the scroll to be used on Ixu; after all, Reason has the ritual. In fact, it would be cheaper if Reason used the ritual ;)

I will abide by whatever choice you make.

One more Diplomacy roll please from someone (preferably someone with a decent bonus in it :) )

Kia approaches the Firebird. "And what of you? I wonder how you came to be here? Could it be that you are here to help us? Or are we her to help you?"

Diplomacy 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (18) + 13 = 31

..and I have no objection to the scroll being used for Ixu. Anybody can roll another PC, but a dragon is another matter!