Round: 3, Initiative: 1
Weapon Equipped = None
Conditions = Magic Vestment on Buckler (1/9h), Bless (1/18m), Blessings of Fervor (3/9r), Haste (3/8r), Prayer (2/9r)
Life Link (9)(100’) = Eidi, Eri, Mort, Sol, Tynan
Channel Energy (9/9)(7/7) (DC: 22)(Avoid 6) (5d6+1+2d6 phylactery)
Amiable Blunder (1/1) (if Diplomacy failed by >5, re-roll to avoid worsening attitude)
Rod of Extend (lesser) (0/3)
Melee Attack: BAB +6/+1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +6/+1, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 9, Concentration +15)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (16): Create Water, Detect Magic, Guidance, Light, Purify Food and Drink, Spark, Stabilize
First (17): (6/8) Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Diagnose Disease, Enhance Water, Liberating Command, Remove Fear
Second (18): (7/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Suppress Charms and Compulsions
Third (19): (3/7) Cure Serious Wounds, Daylight, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer
Fourth (20): (2/5) Blessings of Fervor, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration
Ascaria prepares another bless, before realizing, he’s already done it! He considers his options, and the distance to the foe, and decides to try a Burst of Radiance (Reflex DC 18 blind or dazzled also ).
He targets the top of the creature, so the light shines all around, if only briefly.
If blinded, it should allow the party to close unmolested.
The three-eyed lummox blinks every one of them, and seems irritated by the sudden burst of light, and it flicks its eyestalk back and forth, as the crowd makes a pleased 'aahhh' at the spectacle!
It's still quite irritated with you all, so its stalk returns to focus on its next morsel...
Eidi focuses more energy on his hands and produces another dark ray that jumps forth towards the creature! "Do you feel feeble enough?!"
Round 3, Part 1
Solrisa looks at Mort and smiles, thinking things.
"Mort, think! Do we want to charge or wait for it to come closer?"
AC= +10 armor +1 dex +1 NA +2 def + 2 'skin +2 BoF +1 Haste = 29.
HP= 78/78
Right hand = BluespRae
Left hand =
LoH 0/7 used (4d6+1d6)
Quick Shirt 0/1 used
Wand of Barkskin (45/50 left)
The Dragon Invoked 0/3 used
Breath of the Dragon 0/2 used
[ dice]1d20+16-3+2+1[/dice] to hit; (-PA,heroism,+1 magic,+prayer)
[ dice]1d10+6+6+1d6+2+1+1[/dice] magic nonlethal damage.
[ dice]1d20+11-3[/dice] to hit; (-PA,)
[ dice]1d10+6+6[/dice] magic damage.
[ dice]1d20+16-3[/dice] to hit; (-PA)
[ dice]1d10+8+9[/dice] magic damage.
[ dice]1d20+11-3[/dice] to hit; (-PA)
[ dice]1d10+8+9[/dice] magic damage.
Magic Vestment (9 hours, Blue Light Special Shield, +2)
Bless (Ascaria, +1 morale)
BoF (awesome, Ascaria)
Haste (Eidi)
Divine Favor (2 minutes)
BluespRae (+2 more)
The three-eyed lummox blinks every one of them, and seems irritated by the sudden burst of light, and it flicks its eyestalk back and forth, as the crowd makes a pleased 'aahhh' at the spectacle!
Wow, it's dumb that way!
"Mort, think! Do we want to charge or wait for it to come closer?"
"Well, I was going to wait for it to close, but I'm getting bored already. Opsy-Topsy is the way to go."
Mortimer bolts and tries to vault past the thing's multiple tentacles, trying to continue to distract it on his way.
"Boopily-bloop, boopily-bloop, over here Eyes and Mouth! You want some entertainment before you die?"
Round 3 Init 2 AC:20 (BoF)
Seeing the successful rays a broad grin forms on Eri’s face.
COOL! Do it again! Do it again!
Eri slides up to get a clear shot and aims two more admonishing rays at the thing.
AC 14 or 18 [dex +3, amu +1, m. armor +4]
CMD 18
BAB +5
Defensive casting = +15 (@7th)
Spell Penetration= +9 (@7th)
The spells/day listed will include the casting (if any) that I made this round
b]Orisons[/b] DC:14(Acid Splash, Create Water, Detect Magic, Disrupt Undead, Mage Hand, Spark, Message, Prestidigitation)
First Level: DC:15 (5/7 per day 4/4 stones) (Burning Disarm, Feather Fall, Grease. Gravity Bow, Mage Armor, Magic Missile, shocking grasp)
Second Level: DC:16 (5/7 per day) (Acid Arrow, Admonishing Ray, Glitterdust, Gust of Wind)
Third Level: DC:17 (3/4 per day) (Dispel Magic, Fireball, Lightning Bolt)
Thunder staff charges: 7/7 (extra d6 dam, 3 rnds ea.)
Shock rounds 0/3
Quick Runner’s Shirt Charge 1/1
Weapon equipped = +2 Composite Long Bow
+11 or +9/+9 (fight+1, sorc +3, ElKn +1, WF, +1, dex +3 bow +2)
+12 or +10/+10 within 30' with +1 dam
Damage bump: +8 [+2 (bow) +2(str) +2 (feat ex pull) +2 (feat arcane weap)]
Round 3, Part 2
Solrisa takes total defense and follows Mort into the fray.
AC= +10 armor +1 dex +1 NA +2 def + 2 'skin +2 BoF +1 Haste = 29.+4 =33
HP= 78/78
Right hand = BluespRae
Left hand =
LoH 0/7 used (4d6+1d6)
Quick Shirt 0/1 used
Wand of Barkskin (45/50 left)
The Dragon Invoked 0/3 used
Breath of the Dragon 0/2 used
[ dice]1d20+16-3+2+1[/dice] to hit; (-PA,heroism,+1 magic,+prayer)
[ dice]1d10+6+6+1d6+2+1+1[/dice] magic nonlethal damage.
[ dice]1d20+11-3[/dice] to hit; (-PA,)
[ dice]1d10+6+6[/dice] magic damage.
[ dice]1d20+16-3[/dice] to hit; (-PA)
[ dice]1d10+8+9[/dice] magic damage.
[ dice]1d20+11-3[/dice] to hit; (-PA)
[ dice]1d10+8+9[/dice] magic damage.
Magic Vestment (9 hours, Blue Light Special Shield, +2)
Bless (Ascaria, +1 morale)
BoF (awesome, Ascaria)
Haste (Eidi)
Divine Favor (2 minutes)
BluespRae (+2 more)
Round 3, Init 2
Tynan calls upon Ascaria's Blessing to enhance his reflexes, then moves forward along with Solrisa. Wielding his short swords defensively, he prepares to fend off any possible attacks.
BoF modified: AC:24, FFAC:20, TAC:18
BOF and Total Defense: AC:28, FFAC:24, TAC:22
CMD:25, FFCMD:21
Fort: +8, Ref: +12, Will: +6
Hit Points: 58/58
Bless, Haste, Blessing of Fervor
Ascaria tries to blind the three-eyed mongo-frog, only to dazzle it for a little while. Eidi tries to weaken the trifocaled amphibian with some necromantic magic, and succeeds, though not as powerfully as he might have desired.
Mortimer moves exceptionally nimbly, and exceptionally close to the triballed monstrosity, and it does seem to titillate the crowd, as one of the Artists and Outcasts offers himself up as tribute.
Solrisa stalks forward, as does Tynan, both triggering a tongue-lashing from the behemoth.
Eri continues to punish the creature with more admonishment, to decent effect.
The giant manages to draw the mammoth-mouthed monster's attention, for all the sturm und drang. Mortimer begins to receive the full assault.
Once Madtooth has Mortimer within its tentacled grasp, it turns an eye on the maiden, hungry for more morsels.
Unable to get a good purchase on a second prey, it returns its imminent mastication on Mortimer for its last two attacks.
The creature's mannerisms makes it clear that Mortimer is slated for consumption...
The crowd sighs in a mixture collective bloodlust and concern for the giant's fate.
Round 4 Init 2 AC:18
Eri sees Mort slump down in the Frog’s moist grip, Eri weaves a slippery spell on his cloak, using extend spell.
AC 14 or 18 [dex +3, amu +1, m. armor +4]
CMD 18
BAB +5
Defensive casting = +15 (@7th)
Spell Penetration= +9 (@7th)
The spells/day listed will include the casting (if any) that I made this round
b]Orisons[/b] DC:14(Acid Splash, Create Water, Detect Magic, Disrupt Undead, Mage Hand, Spark, Message, Prestidigitation)
First Level: DC:15 (4/7 per day 4/4 stones) (Burning Disarm, Feather Fall, Grease. Gravity Bow, Mage Armor, Magic Missile, shocking grasp)
Second Level: DC:16 (5/7 per day) (Acid Arrow, Admonishing Ray, Glitterdust, Gust of Wind)
Third Level: DC:17 (3/4 per day) (Dispel Magic, Fireball, Lightning Bolt)
Thunder staff charges: 7/7 (extra d6 dam, 3 rnds ea.)
Shock rounds 0/3
Quick Runner’s Shirt Charge 1/1
Weapon equipped = +2 Composite Long Bow
+11 or +9/+9 (fight+1, sorc +3, ElKn +1, WF, +1, dex +3 bow +2)
+12 or +10/+10 within 30' with +1 dam
Damage bump: +8 [+2 (bow) +2(str) +2 (feat ex pull) +2 (feat arcane weap)]
Round 4
Solrisa moves in to strike at the beast holding Mortimer.
"Let Mort go! Take me instead! I'm very tasty!"
to hit; (-PA,+2 magic,+prayer,+bless,+BoF,+Haste,+DF,Flank)
magic damage.
to hit; (-PA,+2 magic,+prayer,+bless,+BoF,+Haste,+DF,+Flank)
magic damage.
to hit; (-PA,+2 magic,+prayer,+bless,+BoF,+Haste,+DF,+Flank)
magic damage.
AC= +10 armor +1 dex +1 NA +2 def + 2 'skin +1 Haste+BoF = 31
HP= 78/78
Right hand = BluespRae
Left hand =
LoH 0/7 used (4d6+1d6)
Quick Shirt 0/1 used
Wand of Barkskin (45/50 left)
The Dragon Invoked 0/3 used
Breath of the Dragon 0/2 used
[ dice]1d20+16-3+2+1[/dice] to hit; (-PA,heroism,+1 magic,+prayer)
[ dice]1d10+6+6+1d6+2+1+1[/dice] magic nonlethal damage.
[ dice]1d20+11-3[/dice] to hit; (-PA,)
[ dice]1d10+6+6[/dice] magic damage.
[ dice]1d20+16-3[/dice] to hit; (-PA)
[ dice]1d10+8+9[/dice] magic damage.
[ dice]1d20+11-3[/dice] to hit; (-PA)
[ dice]1d10+8+9[/dice] magic damage.
Magic Vestment (9 hours, Blue Light Special Shield, +2)
Bless (Ascaria, +1 morale)
BoF (awesome, Ascaria)
Haste (Eidi)
Divine Favor (2 minutes)
BluespRae (+2 more)
Round: 4, Initiative: 1
Weapon Equipped = None
Conditions = Magic Vestment on Buckler (1/9h), Bless (1/18m), Blessings of Fervor (4/9r), Haste (4/8r), Prayer (3/9r)
Life Link (9)(100’) = Eidi, Eri, Mort, Sol, Tynan
Channel Energy (7/9)(7/7) (DC: 22)(Avoid 6) (5d6+1+2d6 phylactery)
Amiable Blunder (1/1) (if Diplomacy failed by >5, re-roll to avoid worsening attitude)
Rod of Extend (lesser) (0/3)
Melee Attack: BAB +6/+1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +6/+1, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 9, Concentration +15)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (16): Create Water, Detect Magic, Guidance, Light, Purify Food and Drink, Spark, Stabilize
First (17): (6/8) Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Diagnose Disease, Enhance Water, Liberating Command, Remove Fear
Second (18): (7/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Suppress Charms and Compulsions
Third (19): (3/7) Cure Serious Wounds, Daylight, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer
Fourth (20): (2/5) Blessings of Fervor, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration
Ascaria absorbs less damage than he expected as the creature focuses on Mortimer, rather than on everyone. Still, a couple are healed.*
He sees Mort run far, far away, and moves himself to keep up, provoking as he does so.
Sensing the upcoming bite and swallow, as if from his dreams, he tries to prepare Mort as best he can for the experience, channeling to heal as much as possible! He avoids the big froggy creature with his healing naturally.
”Hang on Mort! You’ll be fine, just fine!” he shouts hoping for the best…
Following Sol's lead, he shouts, "Eat me you bloody monster, not my friend Mort. I'm your real threat you idiot!"
Unable to find a way to immediately save Mortimer, Eidi steps to the side and then starts casting a summon monster III spell "It's a frog it will not reason, let's force it to go down!"
Eound 4, Init 2
Tynan moves up into a flanking position with the tentacle trussed Mortimer. Calling on enhanced reflexes, he stabs at the creature's underbelly.
BoF modified: AC:24, FFAC:20, TAC:18
CMD:25, FFCMD:21
Fort: +8, Ref: +12, Will: +6
Hit Points: 58/58
Bless, Haste, Blessing of Fervor, Prayer
Round 4
Static (Saves etc) below.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
AC 25 , 29 on AoO, 22 Touch; 67/67 HP
BAB = +9/+3 (level 9)
ToHit = 1d20+13+1
RHit = 1d20+14-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
LHit = 1d20+14-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
THit = 1d20+9-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
FHit = 1d20+4-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
Throw = 1d20+13
Fort+8 (+4 vs inhaled and contact poisons, +2 vs. disease)
Reflex+11
Will+6
Initiative +4
CMD=29 (10+ BAB + Str bonus + Dex bonus, 30 Maneuver Training Grapple +2, +1 Manuever training Disarm, +2 class feature "AC Bonus" at level 4/9)
+1 Grapple (Armbands), +2 Grapple MT, +2 Improved Grapple (+5 total)
"Awww, look Sol!" Mortimer fake bawls. "All Eyes And Mouth is hugging me! It's as if he thinks I know what it's like to be all eyes and mouth! I kinda feel sorry for him."
Mortimer winds up (non-lethal).
for
for
for
Eri greases himself up. Solrisa demonstrates a preternatural ability for frog-gigging, injuring Madtooth madly. Ascaria risks all, trying to keep the giant on his feet, and radiating more healing energy. Eidi begins a lengthy casting so summon an ally to the field. Tynan slips into flank, provoking his own tentacled response, before damaging Madtooth further.
Mortimer, in his own personal struggle, manages to cuff the behemoth a couple of times, as he awaits consumption.
For all the butchery, Madtooth the Hungry stupidly presses his attacks, expecting to lessen the assaults by consuming many of them.
Madtooth glugs a couple of times, forcing the giant down its gullet, then seem almost to smile stupidly for its success.
It continues reaching out, securing a gnome for its trouble.
For its final attack, it selects the most proximal of you, Tynan.
The dagger man stops moving.
Round 5
Static (Saves etc) below.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
AC 25 , 29 on AoO, 22 Touch; 67/67 HP
BAB = +9/+3 (level 9)
ToHit = 1d20+13+1
RHit = 1d20+14-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
LHit = 1d20+14-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
THit = 1d20+9-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
FHit = 1d20+4-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
Throw = 1d20+13
Fort+8 (+4 vs inhaled and contact poisons, +2 vs. disease)
Reflex+11
Will+6
Initiative +4
CMD=29 (10+ BAB + Str bonus + Dex bonus, 30 Maneuver Training Grapple +2, +1 Manuever training Disarm, +2 class feature "AC Bonus" at level 4/9)
+1 Grapple (Armbands), +2 Grapple MT, +2 Improved Grapple (+5 total)
Ah, well. Nice and close, the way I like it... I do hope he broke some teeth -- or whatever those were -- on me.
Mortimer begins trying to dig his way out.
for
for
for
for
Hate this style -- it's so damn messy.
Round 5 Init 2 AC:20 (BoF)
Eri slides up to get a clear shot and aims two more admonishing rays at the thing.
Gain a +2 bonus on attack rolls and a +2 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves
AC 14 or 18 [dex +3, amu +1, m. armor +4]
CMD 18
BAB +5
Defensive casting = +15 (@7th)
Spell Penetration= +9 (@7th)
The spells/day listed will include the casting (if any) that I made this round
b]Orisons[/b] DC:14(Acid Splash, Create Water, Detect Magic, Disrupt Undead, Mage Hand, Spark, Message, Prestidigitation)
First Level: DC:15 (4/7 per day 4/4 stones) (Burning Disarm, Feather Fall, Grease. Gravity Bow, Mage Armor, Magic Missile, shocking grasp)
Second Level: DC:16 (4/7 per day) (Acid Arrow, Admonishing Ray, Glitterdust, Gust of Wind)
Third Level: DC:17 (3/4 per day) (Dispel Magic, Fireball, Lightning Bolt)
Thunder staff charges: 7/7 (extra d6 dam, 3 rnds ea.)
Shock rounds 0/3
Quick Runner’s Shirt Charge 1/1
Weapon equipped = +2 Composite Long Bow
+11 or +9/+9 (fight+1, sorc +3, ElKn +1, WF, +1, dex +3 bow +2)
+12 or +10/+10 within 30' with +1 dam
Damage bump: +8 [+2 (bow) +2(str) +2 (feat ex pull) +2 (feat arcane weap)]
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From within the bowels of the mighty frog-topus, the giant emerges, like an unholy fetus wholly dissatisfied with its mother's womb. Mortimer rends, while his shirt impotently tries to burn, but his combat style proves effective enough to not only free himself, but knock the huge beast unconscious from the pain. The belly slit self-seals, leaving very little blood and intestinal content on the ground. Most of it is on Mortimer.
With Eri's last admonishment, the battle is over!
The crowd erupts in cheers and applause and celebration, as the Artists and Outcasts' victory ensures a Final Day's Battle, Legio against Legio.
Talabir stands from his seat, and pronounces the victory.
The crowd applauds and laughs, very pleased with the group's performance, for all the delay.
And like that, your Legio is escorted from the arena floor, through the gates, through hallways, and up the stairs to the Main Observation Platform. Talabir welcomes you with a grand smile, while Loris and Kendra remain seated, polite, civil smiles of their own to greet you. The Queen Herself nods respectfully, her posture intent on hearing your address.
Talabir points to the spot on the Platform, where once he stood, and indicates with simple gestures in which direction to speak, in order for the entirety of the Catafalque to hear your acceptance speeches.
From where he stands, Talabir asks that each of you take a moment to introduce yourselves, from whence you came, and your expectations of the Final Day's battle. "Go ahead, don't be shy now."
As Eidi finishes his spell 3 dolphins are produced out of nowhere and land all around Mortimer at the moment he is newly born.
"Ups!" the theurge smiles as he can see the giant alive and healthy despite the multiple viscera around.
"It seems the Outcasts move to the final..."
The half-elf seems molested as he is prompted to speak to the audience but he does not hide and takes the opportunity for an speech "Well, I am Eidi. As you can see I am just the light and sound effects for the real heroes here." he makes a pause looking at the party "" he nods to the public and very serious adds "Thanks people, have a good rest of the day and see you tomorrow"
Then he leaves a space for the next one.
Weapon Equipped = None
Conditions = Magic Vestment on Buckler (1/9h), Bless (5/18m)
Life Link (9)(100’) = Eidi, Eri, Mort, Sol, Tynan
Channel Energy (4/9)(7/7) (DC: 22)(Avoid 6) (5d6+1+2d6 phylactery)
Amiable Blunder (1/1) (if Diplomacy failed by >5, re-roll to avoid worsening attitude)
Rod of Extend (lesser) (0/3)
Melee Attack: BAB +6/+1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +6/+1, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 9, Concentration +15)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (16): Create Water, Detect Magic, Guidance, Light, Purify Food and Drink, Spark, Stabilize
First (17): (5/8) Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Diagnose Disease, Enhance Water, Liberating Command, Remove Fear
Second (18): (7/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Suppress Charms and Compulsions
Third (19): (3/7) Cure Serious Wounds, Daylight, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer
Fourth (20): (2/5) Blessings of Fervor, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration
Ascaria absorbs a little damage* and falters as it dips him into the negatives . As in his dreams, his skills kick in triggering a Channel Energy that only he benefits from.
…but it’s enough to keep him conscious and alert.
He watches as Mort is birthed from the froggy beast, and channels energy quickly to heal Tynan especially, but all the group. He does not heal the frog, being uncertain as to how it’ll react when it awakes.
The next round, he channels again to help top everyone off.
He’ll cast a quick spell as the party moves up to the platform to heal any residual damage on Tynan.
He listens respectfully to Eidi as he makes his proclamation, and he steps up to the platform to speak. He raises his hands to the crowd in supplication. He can't help but shout so he's heard,
He steps back, and wonders if the crowd knows just how evil are the people running the show and decides they likely do not. For them this is simple entertainment - bloodletting for their pleasure. It's what they have been trained to enjoy.
He smiles, but he cannot wait to get clear of this place, this city, and the evil that calls him yet below...
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Static (Saves etc) below.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
AC 25 , 29 on AoO, 22 Touch; 67/67 HP
BAB = +9/+3 (level 9)
ToHit = 1d20+13+1
RHit = 1d20+14-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
LHit = 1d20+14-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
THit = 1d20+9-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
FHit = 1d20+4-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
Throw = 1d20+13
Fort+8 (+4 vs inhaled and contact poisons, +2 vs. disease)
Reflex+11
Will+6
Initiative +4
CMD=29 (10+ BAB + Str bonus + Dex bonus, 30 Maneuver Training Grapple +2, +1 Manuever training Disarm, +2 class feature "AC Bonus" at level 4/9)
+1 Grapple (Armbands), +2 Grapple MT, +2 Improved Grapple (+5 total)
As Eidi finishes his spell 3 dolphins are produced out of nowhere and land all around Mortimer at the moment he is newly born.
A disgustingly dripping Mortimer gawks at the Cetacean citizens and exclaims almost panically,
"Oh no, not again!"
He checks his feet and hands, and sighs in relief to see that they are not in fact flippers. Breathing more easily, he looks around -- visibly baffled. In a quieter tone he mutters, "I thought..." he gasps, grabbing his head and looking at the dolphin to his left -- then grabbing his sides as if to make sure he is all there -- looking at the dolphin to his right, "... it was ... crowded in there, but ... " he trails off leaving the thought unfinished, his gaze coming to a rest on the dolphin in front of him.
He shrugs, and gently pats each one of them on the melon reassuringly.
"Don't worry, mates. You'll be O.K. in a few minutes."
"My, you know what? I think we need to hear from this noble band of gladiators, don't you?"
~~~
Shaking the worst of the entrail stew off of his person on his way to the Main Observation Platform, he waits until everyone else has gone up to the podium before jogging jubilantly up to it himself."Wooooooo! Except for the darkness and the stench, that was just like an alpine slide! Thanks for providing the opportunity for us to experience that!" he announces glancing briefly at Kendra and Loris, a look of gleeful mischief in his eye.
Having almost completely forgotten in his exuberance, he steps back to the podium and adds, "Oh, uh -- Mortimer Smith -- Diamond Lake, I guess."
"I expect to win tomorrow."
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Solrisa goes to check on Ascaria, Tynan, and Mortimer, only showing her smile after they all rise and shake off their wounds. She had a worried look upon her face that quickly melts into a smile as Ascaria's pulses prove his health and ensure the health of others.
"Mort, feel! Doesn't that feel great!! We killed this bad monster!" Solrisa helps wipe the man clean after she sheathes her sword. "We wonsies!"
Solrisa beams all about the stadium, smiling and waving with joy.
* * *
Solrisa continues to smile and wave and bounce excitedly as Eidi, Ascaria, & Mort speak. When it is her turn, she walks and beams and bows all the more smiling before she introduces herself.
In conclusion, Solrisa smiles and waves brightly to all.
Tynan looks at the crowded stadium as he listens to the rest of the group speak. As Solrisa's oratory ends, he quickly moves up to the podium.
"Thank you."
Just as quickly, he moves back to the group, knowing that the crowd is likely still pondering Solrisa's profound observations.
Eri watches everyone speak with a growing sense of unease. As Solrisa begins to speak he thinks, Uh oh, is she going to say something embarrassing? …Wait, what? Oh, here we go, I uh. A smile grows on his face and he tries to suppress it and fails.
”Hi, I am Eri and I come from the woods. I also believe that we build up our future, tomorrow, by winning. We will do it for the children of tomorrow and the day after that. ”
With that he falls back in line suppressing more giggles.
Talabir is the very picture of restraint, as he listens to one Artist after another Outcast, and inwardly wonders what he expected from a humbly-named Legio.
When Solrisa expounds upon the more abstract levels of the geo-political deep state, Talabir fails to supress a facial twitch. And yet, only his voice has been amplified to thousands in the crowd. Surely it's not the glaring circumstance of the Queen sitting mere yards away...
The Main Referee steps into the Sound, and brings his voice back to the audience. The audience regales you all with a hearty anticipatory roar.
You are surrounded by Gold Cloaks, eager to escort you back to the Coenoby. Before you part, Loris himself steps forward, holding his hand up to his men. The older gladiator, several deep scars traveling the length of his face, takes in each of you with steel-blue eyes, before addressing you.
"You've proven yourselves hard-to-kill. You have the Blood of Champions running through your veins. That's a very valuable thing, you should know. I look forward to you spilling it again on the field tomorrow. You have been very generous, so far." Loris looks over Tynan, for his recent donation.
"Good luck tomorrow. I promise you, it will be a glorious event. The likes no one in Egorian, or for that matter Cheliax, has seen."
He nods to his Gold Cloaks, and you are bid follow them back to the Coenoby.
"Mort, feel! Doesn't that feel great!!" Solrisa helps wipe the man clean after she sheathes her sword.
Mortimer nods and watches speechlessly spellbound as Solrisa wipes frog spleen off of his thigh. A knot forms in his throat and he swallows hard to avoid drooling.
I bet it would feel even greater without my trousers in the way...
He smiles and nods absently as everyone speaks, but looks slightly alarmed and confused when "children" are mentioned.
~~~
"You've proven yourselves hard-to-kill. You have the Blood of Champions running through your veins. That's a very valuable thing, you should know. I look forward to you spilling it again on the field tomorrow. You have been very generous, so far." Loris looks over Tynan, for his recent donation.
Fortunately, perhaps, Mortimer's mouth flies before his fist. He suddenly becomes aware that he's holding back a punch as he blurts out, "Yah, I imagine that's what Thedrick thought too! What -- are you her main squeeze now? Do you know where she's been? Does the Queen?!"
He stands seething at Loris until prompted to move out.
~~~
"Everyone -- did you hear him? We go up again tomorrow. Should we go down the cellar stairs and find out to what building that Study belongs, or do we rest and go for the win tomorrow? Is there time for both? Maybe only one of us should go, now that there are only two Legios. ' might look a weird if one whole Legios disappeared...," he pauses, considering.
After a few seconds he says, " I'm leaning toward resting and preparing for the Gauntlet tomorrow. I think we at least know there's another way into that cave down there."
He sits on the edge of a bed. "I wonder if we'll ever see Ekyam again."
Ascaria says nothing as Loris steps forward, but his hand inches toward his never-used dagger none the less. He relaxes, a little, when Mort starts to speak, and then he preps a spell waiting for Loris’ response.
He tugs at Mort’s sleeve, ”C’mon, we need to rest for tomorrow.”
When he gets below, he finds it quiet, and is surprised at himself that he misses the bustle of the other Legios. Well, not the dwarves… but the gnomes were nice folk.
He turns to the group, ”I guess now we wait huh? Is the fight tomorrow? I think it’s tomorrow, but I’ve lost track. If it's tomorrow, we should keep our heads down and hope to meet Ekaym after the fight.”
He looks confused a moment and spurts, "What happens after the fight? What do we do then?"
Solrisa waves and blows kisses to all as she is escorted off the stage, smiling and enjoying it all. Because she does. She's happy just to be there.
She doesn't say anything to Loris, but instead looks at him through her Dragon's Eyes. She thinks she knows the answer, but wants to know for sursies.
"C’mon, we need to rest for tomorrow.”
Solrisa smiles and nods to Ascaria.
"Yes, that's a good idea! I have Mort's slime all over me," Solrisa laughs and can't wait to get out of her armor.
Solrisa begins to undress and to change into her leathers so she might clean her armor.
"Tynan, are you feeling okay?"
Tynan gives a small nod to Loris, but says nothing of his "donation".
"Tynan, are you feeling okay?"
"Yes, I'm doing just fine thanks to Ascaria's healing." He looks away as the maiden begins to change out of her armor.
"The more important question is not so easy. How are we to defeat Auric's Warband?"
Eri feels he need to be less playful and stops giggling at Loris' words. He keeps a half grin.
Eri prestidigitates everyone on the way down.
Do we know anything about how Auric fights?
"The more important question is not so easy. How are we to defeat Auric's Warband?"
Solrisa takes the question very seriously.
"Hmm....why don't you all focus on Khellek and I'll take care of Auric? That should work right? And I think Khellek likes to cast spells...so maybe have lots of ways to undo his spells?" Solrisa nods to herself as if she had just mapped out the perfect plan.
"Nothing can go wrong if we do that."
"Yah, I imagine that's what Thedrick thought too! What -- are you her main squeeze now? Do you know where she's been? Does the Queen?!"
Loris looks up and into the giant's glower, not bothering to look back on Kendra or Queen. "I certainly enjoy her company, if that's what you're asking. But that's not what you're asking, is it? You have something to say, say it. Unless you prefer a private audience to discuss any grievances?"
...
A change regarding the Coenoby- the Gold Cloaks are no longer posted. Instead, the Purple Cloaks of Captain Okoral's personal guard are now positioned at every exit from the underground cavern. They stand shoulder-to-shoulder, chainmail and helms, several assorted weapons, all masterwork at least, at first glance.
The kitchen staff appear visibly agitated from the change, while Auric and Khellek seem unfazed, as they settle in for the rest of the day.
When it comes to discussing Auric's tactics, you find yourselves thoroughly lacking in information. The Gold Cloaks haven't discussed it, nor have the losing Legios, since they were absented in their defeat. Auric as fighter, and Khellek as wizard, that, at least, is clear. But two does not a 'warband' make...
Ascaria notes the purple cloaks and decides they've been discovered. In their rooms, he whispers magically, "I bet Loris has discovered our wanderings the other day and is trying to ensure we don't go down there again. That's why he's got his top guards on duty now."
"If we're going below again, I think we'll have to find the other end, where we heard women's voices, and work our way back in from there. Might be tough, but I bet we can do it."
He looks at Tynan and Sol, "As for Auric's Warband, they're going to be tough that's for sure. Maybe their wizard is a summoner and brings friends to the combat? Maybe that's how they pad their battles. The wizard sends in the troops, the fighter defends the wizard, and the other team suffers - battling wave on wave of lesser creatures until their strength is all spent."
He looks at Eri, "Lots of rays and magic missiles against their wizard. If you can, time it for when he's casting to try and keep him on his toes. Maybe mess up a spell or two in the process." he grins.
"Of course they're expecting that, so who knows what defenses they'll have in place. We'll just have to keep our heads up."
He reacts strongly as something occurs to him, "Oh, OH! What if he's an enchanter? You know, he possesses our toughest fighters" he glances at Sol and Mort, "And uses them against us. Quite mean, doing that sort of thing, but it would make a warband as well."
"I figure we do what we usually do, and hope for the best!" he scratches his chin, smiling.
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"I seem to remember from the original match-up roster that they had flesh golems with them. Does anyone know anything about those? Any useful tactics against them?" Tynan looks at the more magically inclined for any information they might possess.
Eidi smiles at Tynan "Acute! Yah!"
"If Tynan is right we should prepare to resist electrical spells from Khellek and use fireballs over the golems" the half-elf soothes his beard thoughtful "I will try to prepare spells to counter Khellek's magic, whatever that is... Eri can focus on handling the golems with his fireballs, while Mortimer and Solrisa defeat Auric. Tynan can attempt to move close to Khellek to hamper him and Ascaria, well you are our bone and blood"
"I certainly enjoy her company, if that's what you're asking. But that's not what you're asking, is it? You have something to say, say it. Unless you prefer a private audience to discuss any grievances?"
Mortimer continues to seethe at Loris.
"Aw," he feigningly bawls, "I think you know exactly what I'm asking. Haven't found a new Champion yet?" he directs his question to Kendra. "Too bad, for you may find no more than disappointment in your future prospects regarding that."He continues glower at Loris and Kendra even as Ascaria, Sol and the others tug him away.
~~~
"Nothing can go wrong if we do that."
Mortimer stops muttering sour nothings under his breath.
"Oh, I do have some thunderstones I could -- " he suddenly cuts himself off and looks at Ascaria. " Ascaria! Do you have an extra sling that I could borrow? Maybe that would give my stones more range."
He begins carving a dark wood club into the shape of a catapult bucket with a curve to fit with his arm swing just in case the sling doesn't work or isn't available.
~~~
[ ... ] the Purple Cloaks of Captain Okoral's personal guard are now positioned at every exit [ ... ] The kitchen staff appear visibly agitated from the change, while Auric and Khellek seem unfazed, as they settle in for the rest of the day.
Mortimer shouts across the Cenoby to Auric and Khellek to make conversation, but mostly out of boredom.
"Hey, you've been through this before? Do they always do this Changing of the Guard before the last battle? Seems to be unnerving the staff..."
"I have 2 scrolls of dispel if anyone would like to share. I do love a good fireball, however. I'll be ready for anything, I suppose. We might want to think about what might happen after the battle. Does anyone know what happens normally? I wonder if it might change this time. If, I mean when we win, we might want to be ready for some sneaky tactic."
"Well, I think I might just avail myself of the kitchen. Anyone care to join me?"
Eri samples some more delectables. Finally settling on some familiar fare. Starches and meats and booziness.
"Fresh pollens? How do I fight fresh pollen? Will I need to sneeze alot?" Solrisa asks confused by all the cross talk.
"I guess I'll handle Auric and the pollen and you guys can get Khellek? But you can't hurt Khellek too much because we are friends, you know."
"Well, I think I might just avail myself of the kitchen. Anyone care to join me?"
Solrisa's answer is a quick intake of breath, then jumping her feet.
"HAM! I would LOVE some ham!" Solrisa squees excitedly. "And maybe they have cheese too! Let's go Eri!"
"Aw, I think you know exactly what I'm asking."
Loris sneers. "At least you know your place. Held tongues usually avoid being cut out." The retired champion returns to his seat on the Observation platform, turning his back on the riled gladiator.
"Haven't found a new Champion yet? Too bad, for you may find no more than disappointment in your future prospects regarding that."
Kendra's face contorts, into a smile, of all things. "Oh, I'm sure I'll survive. The disappointment will be yours, and yours alone. You simply don't know it yet. What do they say? 'Ignorance is bliss'? You must be very... blissful. For now."
...
"Hey, you've been through this before? Do they always do this Changing of the Guard before the last battle? Seems to be unnerving the staff..."
Auric looks over at the giant, to the guards, then back, setting his stein down to answer. "No, that is new. They weren't here after we finished. Did you do something to merit the unwanted attentions?" The fighter's tone is curiosity distilled. There is no malice in it.
Your new tool will increase precise throwing by 10 feet.
The evening passes uneventfully. You are not visited by your Sponsor, Ekaym. Neither are Auric and Khellek visited by their Sponsor. The food offered tonight is somewhat different, as well.
The dinner you are offered is limited to kefir mixed with wheat germ, and greens cut with fresh strawberries and roasted almonds. No spirits are available for consumption, though there is chilled water with lemon, lime and cucumber slices.
This is a purification meal, meant to cleanse the body of unwanted toxins, possibly for religious purposes.
"I have a strange feeling this meal has some sort of religious context to it. It's almost as if we're being purified... for something..."
Tynan looks at the offered food with some hesitancy.
"Interesting. They're meaning to purify us with this food." He chuckles and calls out to Auric, "I think we're meant to be sacrificed tomorrow. I know we're supposed to fight each other, but be aware of outside influences."
"We are not summoners, and aside from a few dolphins, haven't summoned anything, certainly nothing big for our fights. If something really nasty shows up, watch your backs, because it won't be us coming for you." he warns.
Perhaps in your more necromantic studies, you've come to know everything there is to know about Flesh Golems.
"I think we're meant to be sacrificed tomorrow. I know we're supposed to fight each other, but be aware of outside influences. We are not summoners, and aside from a few dolphins, haven't summoned anything, certainly nothing big for our fights. If something really nasty shows up, watch your backs, because it won't be us coming for you." "
Auric frowns lightly. "Do you know something we don't? This isn't our first Gauntlet, Canary."
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Ascaria frowns, "I expect we do, but I don't know what is of value to you." he moves over so he's not shouting, but he doesn't touch anyone, leery of seeming threatening.
"This meal, it's a purification ritual. Did you have it before? These guards, they're heavier and more powerful than the usual folk - is that normal?"
"Also, you weren't there, but Loris said this to us, 'Good luck tomorrow. I promise you, it will be a glorious event. The likes no one in Egorian, or for that matter Cheliax, has seen.'"
He shakes his head, "I think Loris has something big planned - and he doesn't care if we all lose."
"Look, we have no quarrel with you. I mean sure, we have to fight tomorrow, but that's just this thing we're all in. We've not killed anyone up there and we certainly aren't going to kill either of you - or your golems - if we can at all help it."
"We fight fair. It's just I don't think Loris will, so I want you to watch out tomorrow. Expect the unexpected and watch your backs. We may not be the only opponents out there, and the others might not stop. They may kill."
"No, that is new. They weren't here after we finished. Did you do something to merit the unwanted attentions?"
Mortimer shrugs in a friendly manner, appreciating Auric's candidness. "Who knows what might offend who down here," he sighs, deliberately avoiding the question. "Perhaps all it takes is for us to be breathing," he adds, figuring that that much is true enough.
"Well, I think I might just avail myself of the kitchen. Anyone care to join me?"
"HAM! I would LOVE some ham!" Solrisa squees excitedly. "And maybe they have cheese too! Let's go Eri!"
"The prospect of a hearty meal is never taken for granted by me," says Mortimer, joining the pair.
The dinner you are offered is limited to kefir mixed with wheat germ, and greens cut with fresh strawberries and roasted almonds. No spirits are available for consumption, though there is chilled water with lemon, lime and cucumber slices.
Mortimer's face melts, giving way to unmistakable disappointment. He shifts arounds items within his backpack, pulling some out.
"Well, Sol -- it's not exactly ham, but it's kind of like ham..." He offers his stash of jerky and cheese to Sol, Eri and the others.
As he chews, his face takes on an air of thoughtfullness.
I wonder if throwing a thunderstone at the same time that Eri throws a lightning bolt would impress anyone at all...
Solrisa nods along with Ascaria's words, smiling for compassion and wisdom within them.
Aid to Ascaria's Diplomacy
"Yeah, don't worry, we won't kill you. We like you too much," Solrisa confirms.
* * *
"Tastes like chicken."
Solrisa downcasts at first, but then tears into the not-ham after Mort's enthusiasm moves her.
"Mort, taste! It's like food!" Solrisa masticates. Solrisa samples most of the foods, chomping happily, purification or not.
"I expect we do, but I don't know what is of value to you. This meal, it's a purification ritual. Did you have it before? These guards, they're heavier and more powerful than the usual folk - is that normal? Also, you weren't there, but Loris said this to us, 'Good luck tomorrow. I promise you, it will be a glorious event. The likes no one in Egorian, or for that matter Cheliax, has seen.' I think Loris has something big planned - and he doesn't care if we all lose. Look, we have no quarrel with you. I mean sure, we have to fight tomorrow, but that's just this thing we're all in. We've not killed anyone up there and we certainly aren't going to kill either of you - or your golems - if we can at all help it. We fight fair. It's just I don't think Loris will, so I want you to watch out tomorrow. Expect the unexpected and watch your backs. We may not be the only opponents out there, and the others might not stop. They may kill."
"Yeah, don't worry, we won't kill you. We like you too much."
Auric listens to the gnome's rational tone and points, supported by the maiden's transparent disposition, and his frown softens. "This Gauntlet has been more ritualistic, I will agree. The battlefield was not carved with a pentagram, for one. The lake of blood, same. Who does that?" The fighter keeps his voice low, demonstrating his lack of allegiance to all things Asmodeus. "Your half-elf seemed pleased that Asmodeus must be blessing your team. I didn't take you for devil lovers." The fighter looks Eidi over, before returning to Ascaria.
"I am unaware of any combatants other than our two Legios. The winners of the Gauntlet must be determined fairly, otherwise its reputation diminishes over time. I will do as you say, and keep an eye out for undue influences, but we will bring our full might to the battle. I suggest you do the same."
"I am unaware of any combatants other than our two Legios. The winners of the Gauntlet must be determined fairly, otherwise its reputation diminishes over time. I will do as you say, and keep an eye out for undue influences, but we will bring our full might to the battle. I suggest you do the same."
"Agreed!" the gnome nearly shouts and sticks out his hand to shake, before withdrawing it quickly, "Oh right, sorry. No touching. he laughs and bows to the warrior.
"See you on the battlefield."
Grinning, he returns to the group and sips his healthy meal.
Mortimer re-regards the purification food presented.
"Uh, Thanks, but no. I'm pure enough," he says, nibbling on a bit of cheese.
After more thought he asks, "It's kind of hard to plan for this match, since we only know they powers upstairs are going to throw something wicked at the lot of us. But, just in case it comes down to it, can anyone get me close enough to Khellek quickly if it turns out we do end up fighting them? I could probably harass him enough that he might not be able to concentrate. I wouldn't want to do anything to The Warband, however, if we all end up fighting on the same side against something else."
Eri follows the conversation as it goes back and forth thinking, How is this going to work? We drop each other and then what?
When Mort starts spreading his jerky Eri opens up his pack and shares some of his own. "I don't know what Asmodeus purification entails, but I am not OK with it."