Round 3 Init 3 AC:20 (BoF)
Eri takes a deep breath and does not will the arrows. He just shoots.
for +
for +
for +
AC 14 or 18 [dex +3, amu +1, m. armor +4]
CMD 19
BAB +6
Defensive casting = +16 (@8th)
Spell Penetration= +10 (@8th)
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, Read Magic)
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 (7/7 per day) (Acid Arrow, Admonishing Ray, Glitterdust, Gust of Wind)
Third Level: DC:17 (1/5 per day) (Dispel Magic, Fireball, Lightning Bolt)
Fourth Level: DC:18 (2/4 per day) (Summon Monster IV)
Thunder staff charges: 6/7 (extra d6 dam, 3 rnds ea.)
Shock rounds 2/4
Quick Runner’s Shirt Charge 1/1
Weapon equipped = +2 Composite Long Bow
+12 or +10/+10 (fight+1, sorc +3, ElKn +2, WF, +1, dex +3 bow +2)
+13 or +11/+11 within 30' with +1 dam
Damage bump: +8 [+2 (bow) +2(str) +2 (feat ex pull) +2 (feat arcane weap)]
Eri's first arrow ricochets at an improper angle, but his next two arrows are enough to overcome the Apostle's hide. The damage is too much, finally, and a sickening shudder of newly-dead flesh ripples out from the ulgurstasta, as it collapses to the arena floor. Auric and the stone golems pause to study the monstrosity, while Eidi reinforces his fellow Artist's killing stroke by administering an effective barrage of magical missiles.
The Catafalque erupts in a cacophony of adulation and revelry.
Talabir's voice inadvertently magnified for his proximity to the amplifying position on stage, as he moves about, giddily. The Observation Deck robustly applauds you. Well, most of the attendees. Loris and Kendra appear painfully out-of-place for their stillness.
Talabir finally composes himself, stepping forward deliberately to speak. Talabir looks towards Queen Abrogail, seeking acknowledgement and approval. The Queen slowly and appreciatively nods her head.
With that, the head wizard-referee waves his hands in a grand gesture, bringing all of his lieutenant wizards into the dismissal of the protective wall of magic that has heretofore protected the entire gathering, save the participants, of course. Before this occurs, however, Loris and Kendra nod to the Queen and her entourage, and excuse themselves from the Observation Deck, while Talabir finishes his pronouncements.
As the Wall comes down, a small crew of priests step forward on the Observation Deck, and the arena's stone walls are shaped into stairs leading directly up to the Deck from the arena floor, allowing those of you unable to air walk to gain the stage. It seems more a display of power than anything else, as both Artists and Outcasts, and Auric's Warband are able to drift through the air. Auric and Khellek actually land, and take to the stairs, Auric, significantly slower in his approach due to his injuries, Khellek accompanied by a new flock of Lantern Archons newly arrived. They do not, however, go first.
That is your right.
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Static (Saves etc) below.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
AC 25, 29 on AoO, 22 Touch; 74/74 HP
BAB = +10/+5 (level 10)
ToHit = 1d20+14+1
RHit = 1d20+15-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
LHit = 1d20+15-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
THit = 1d20+10-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
FHit = 1d20+5-2 (-3 more to hit on Power Attack, +1 Weapon Focus, +6 dam on Power Attack, +1d6 if cold)
Throw = 1d20+15
Fort+9 (+4 vs inhaled and contact poisons, +2 vs. disease)
Reflex+12
Will+6
Initiative +4
CMD = 29 (10+ BAB + Str bonus + Dex bonus, 31 Maneuver Training Grapple +2, 30 Manuever training Disarm, +1 class feature "AC Bonus" at level 4)
+1 Grapple (Armbands), +2 Grapple MT, +2 Improved Grapple (+5 total)
[ ... ] a sickening shudder of newly-dead flesh ripples out from the ulgurstasta, as it collapses to the arena floor.
Mortimer, in Flexo pre-action suddenly stops himself, throwing a nod of approval and gratitude to Eri and Tynan.
Talabir's voice inadvertently magnified for his proximity to the amplifying position on stage, as he moves about, giddily. The Observation Deck robustly applauds you. Well, most of the attendees. Loris and Kendra appear painfully out-of-place for their stillness.
As Talabir begins speaking, Mortimer glances up scowling at the Observation Deck at Loris and Kendra. As he carefully spies their reaction, he cracks a huge smile as Tababir begins to stammer in apparent surprise by The Warbands and the Artists success.
"No, of course they didn't arrange anything. Loris and Kendra are just as surprised as Talabir. They fully expected us to die here. Now what have they planned, I wonder?" he ponders loud enough for at least Auric and Khellek to both hear, he hopes.
He continues to eye Kendra and Loris carefully as Talabir blathers on. As couple excuse themselves from the Observation Deck, he shouts up at them,
He says to the group more quietly but quite seriously, "Actually, the best part comes when we get to punish Loris and Kendra for trying to kill us, and make them tell us how to stop the Spawn of all this evil."
He startles a bit when the walls start being reshaped, then recovers when he sees Auric and Khellek hobble up to the stairs and yield the way to the Artists.
"Just one second," he says to Auric and Khellek. "You have both shown great honor in defeating this Apostle. We should go up as evenly, if not as a new team," he says winking, relishing the idea but not demanding the pair to join up with the Artists. "You should also be aware -- Loris and Kendra seem to have a bone to pick with us -- uh -- the Artists and Outcasts. I think all of the combat is over, but I don't really know what is going to happen up there..."
He looks up curiously at the Observation Deck, and begins to walk up the stairs.
Eidi breathes deep and smiles as the ulgurstasta collapses "Not today"
The half-elf drifts in the air in the direction of Mortimer and the others "We are too weakened right now, and everybody is here to see. We should act calmly"
As for a reply he just requests "Just out of curiosity, from where and how did you get such a terrible beast?" he touches his bald head "I am told this creature is an Apostle of death, what kind of pact brought it to here?"
Weapon Equipped = None
Conditions = Magic Vestment on Buckler (1/9h), Bless (7/20m), Prot from Energy (Fire 0/120hp, Cold 0/120hp, Electric 0/120hp)(6/16m), Air walk (6/16m), Remove Fear (5/10m), -9 con (drain)
Life Link (10)(100’) = Eri, Edi, Mort, Sol, Tynan
Channel Energy (0/9)(2/7) (DC: 23)(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) (1/3)
Melee Attack: BAB +7/+2, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +7/+2, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 10, Concentration +16)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (16): Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, 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): (6/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Protection from Evil Communal
Third (19): (1/7) Cure Serious Wounds, Daylight, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer
Fourth (20): (0/6) Blessings of Fervor, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration
Fifth (21): (2/4) Air Walk Communal, Breath of Life, Cure Light Wounds Mass
Ascaria calls everyone over before many seconds pass as the great worm falls. He channels energy to heal the group, as much as he can, before they set off toward the stairs.
He further casts two Cure Serious Wounds, one each on Khellek and Auric as they walk and wait for the stairs to be created.
”I agree with Mort, we should be careful even in our moment of triumph. They likely don’t have a backup plan so we should be safe, but everyone be careful. Eidi’s right though, let’s not start anything now if we can avoid it. I feel awful…”
When they reach the platform, Ascaira is having trouble concentrating with the roar of the crowds. He's never experienced such a rush after battle before, and he's having trouble concentrating. When Mort invites Auric and Khellek to join them, he shrugs, happy to share the stage, but suspecting they'll keep their distance.
Air Walk Communal
Bless
Protection from Energy Communal
Protection from Energy Communal
Protection from Energy Communal
Remove Fear
Solrisa spends the first few minutes after their victory again blowing kisses and waving to the fans and pointing at Mortimer and Ascaria and Eidi as the true heroes of the day. She smiles bigly and fully and happily though her will has been sapped. They had won and defeated a lot of evil this day...and they had also won the tourney, which was pretty keen.
Solrisa listens to Mort's words, wondering they are going to ruin the celebrating and cookie-eating, but hoping not.
Deep down inside, she knows that they still have work to do and that Loris must pay...and pay deeply for many many crimes.
Solrisa joins in inviting her good friend Khellek, and even Auric to wherever Mort wants them.
Eri watches the final arrow find a home inside the giant monstrosity and lets out a deep breath. He hears the roar of the crowd and takes a moment to collect himself. He tries to straighten up and slowly goes back into his slouch as he tries and fails to plaster on a convincing smile and wave.
Fook it
Glaring up at the podium he moves to Mort to add his stink eye to the mix. While Ascaria heals everyone, Eri will clean Sol using prestidigitation after asking permission. He looks around to see if anyone else wants a quick rinse, but does not clean himself.
Catching his dagger with a flourish, Tynan watches with relief as the great beast falls without felling any of his companions. He joins the others as they approach the observation deck, keeping a close eye in the direction that Loris and Kendra departed.
They certainly didn't expect us to survive that...
Among his lost combats, Eidi has also succeeded in many other ones, but despite his long life this is the first time there is an audience acclaiming him.
The half-elf smiles as he recognizes to enjoy the new feeling.
He recognises Eri's offer with the eyes, and leans his right arm over the young sorcerer's shoulder while holding his staff with the other over the stairs.
"Your Majesty, we would like to have private words with Loris and Kendra if that would be possible" requests the elder to the Queen.
"Your Majesty, we would like to have private words with Loris and Kendra if that would be possible" requests the elder to the Queen.
Ascaria just manages to keep from shaking his head, though his eyes plead, No, No, No, No!
We're not ready. he thinks to himself as he worries about another fight in their weakened state.
The panic fades quickly though as the roar of the crowds continues to fill his ears.
"Just one second. You have both shown great honor in defeating this Apostle. We should go up as evenly, if not as a new team.
You should also be aware -- Loris and Kendra seem to have a bone to pick with us -- uh -- the Artists and Outcasts. I think all of the combat is over, but I don't really know what is going to happen up there..."
Auric and Khellek look a bit confused at Mortimer's words, but they don't inquire just yet. All the same, they follow close behind, perhaps a little eager to distance themselves from the dead ulgurstasta. Once the lot of you gain the Observation Deck, the pair step to the side, and enjoy the spectacle from third-party perspective.
"Just out of curiosity, from where and how did you get such a terrible beast? I am told this creature is an Apostle of death, what kind of pact brought it to here?"
Talabir fields the half-elf's question, though he does look in the direction of Loris's egress. "I'm afraid I don't know exactly, noble Eidi. From the sound of it, Loris made all of those arrangements." The wizard leans in. "It surprised us all, to be honest. I look forward to taking a closer look at it, once the Catafalque has been dismissed. The creature's breath weapon alone, my..."
Talabir motions some of you back, as he beckons to the Throne Attendants, four young women clad in black and red who step forward to pull a lush carpet roll, extending it from steps to speaking circle. Queen Abrogail waits patiently, then descends the stairs, her long ceremonial dress giving her the appearance of floating along the carpet. When she arrives at her spot, she looks to the Catafalque and all it holds, allowing the crowd's adulation to transform into regal reverence. It doesn't take long, as the spectators quickly realize their Queen is about to address them.
The Queen turns to you, and pulls you towards her in gesture. "Step forward, and receive your reward."
Six new Attendants shadow each of you, as you step to the front of the Observation Deck. As you come to a halt, the Attendants equip you with ornate belts, each sized to the individual. One might surmise that there are two belts, somewhere, which are no longer needed. The belts are beautifully-wrought in dark red leather, with gold chainmail work that runs the face of the belt. Closer inspection reveals that the individual chain links are actually miniature pentagrams. The value of each belt is at least 2000gp, for its crafting alone. Its inherent worth is likely far greater.
The Queen smiles proudly on each of you, before welcoming your Sponsor, Ekaym Smallcask to join her. He comes forward from his lower platform on the Observation Deck, and accepts a rather large purse from yet another Attendant. He nods appreciatively, before taking a step back.
The Queen then waves to Her audience, allowing Talabir to reclaim his Voice. The rotund older man quickly steps forward, not wishing to keep his Queen waiting. The crowd returns to maximal volume for a good piece of time, before its voice wanes, and it is obvious to all that a mass exodus has begun. A slow, steady exit of thousands of people to the mundane world above.
"Your Majesty, we would like to have private words with Loris and Kendra if that would be possible."
The Queen turns to hear Her new Champion address Her. "Oh? Am I their maid? Shall I run and fetch them for you?" She raises an eyebrow, and smiles, waiting for the half-elf's response.
Solrisa accepts her belt with grace, blowing kisses and waving to all her fans (if she has any). She smiles and waves, waves and smiles. She is delightedly distracted for the moment and basks in the happy thrill of winning something (she didn't win much with Rae around).
She delights in her new belt, twirling and smiling happily.
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"Coward!" he growls from the arena grounds.
~~~
"Your Majesty, we would like to have private words with Loris and Kendra if that would be possible."
If possible?! Why does he have to be so darned polite?! Mortimer smolders.
"Oh? Am I their maid? Shall I run and fetch them for you?"
YIKES!!! We don't need to draw her ire, or attention that way!
He looks sidelong at Eidi, wondering if the man as some rank to pull. Doubting it, since it is The Queen and all, Mortimer hastily steps forward in an effort to assuage Abrogail's evident annoyance.
He gets down on one knee and averts gazing upon her as he tries to speak quickly, respectfully, and gently.
"Oh, no Your Majesty! Of course not! Please forgive our indiscretion -- we're are merely blinded by your astounding gloriousness! We shall seek audience with Loris and Kendra on our own."
Try as he might, he discovers that it is especially difficult not to sound slightly sarcastic while addressing the Queenly Personification of Asmodeus.
Realizing how he might have sounded, he worriedly and quickly gets back to his feet and steps back in case Abrogail is now having thoughts about beheading him.
I should just keep my mouth shut. I can't wait to get out of here. We have so many things to discuss among ourselves. I have so many questions.
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Ascaria steps forward and the vanity in him really likes the belt. He wonders where he might wear such a thing, and is sure there are those who would kill for it - and probably have.
He smiles plainly to the audience, hands raised in the infectious excitement. He is glad to see their sponsor in one piece and smiling. He hopes things are well with him and eagerly wants to find out what has happened in the last couple days in his world.
When the queen takes offense at Eidi's speech, he thinks about how to word a response, when Mort steps up. He nods at his words, pleased he's rubbing off on the big man, but that tone. Ugh. He's not wrong...
He decides piling on at this point will only make things worse and he keeps his tongue, carefully watching the queen's reaction to their blundering.
His fingers unconsciously finger the flagon around his neck as he prepares to channel to mitigate the coming damage...
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"Please observe while I put my foot in my mouth"
That is what it looks like from outside.
Eri endures the pentagram-ed belt and tries to not touch it. He waves at the crowd and waits for this exposure to be over.
"Sorry Majesty, I was more of requesting your permission" Eidi scratches his beard "After placing your Majesty in such danger in that irresponsible way as Loris did on calling that wild creature without the corresponding countermeasures... I was wondering if you would allow us to made the adequate arrangements and adjustments to such a thing never happen again"
The Queen looks almost amused as Mortimer genuflects, until she hears him speak. Her facial expression solidifies into something aloof and unattainable, which then turns back to Eidi.
"Sorry Majesty, I was more of requesting your permission. After placing your Majesty in such danger in that irresponsible way as Loris did on calling that wild creature without the corresponding countermeasures... I was wondering if you would allow us to made the adequate arrangements and adjustments to such a thing never happen again."
"I was in danger, was I? You think so little of Talabir's Enclave." Her answer is less a question, and more a pronouncement. "You are winners of a gladiatorial spectacle. Know your place. Take your winnings, and leave My presence." Her back is already turned to you as she utters her final words.
For her cold words, you suspect that Eidi's words prevented something more uncomfortable from coming forth.
Ekaym Smallcask approaches his Legio, only after the Queen is well and truly departed. "Well then." He takes a second look, making sure. He turns back to you with a well-crafted smile. "You were wonderful out there! I would say more, here, but I think you've earned a well-deserved rest. Please, find yourselves some respite, and attend me at my estate tomorrow night." Ekaym motions in the direction of Talabir, who stands respectfully at a distance, waiting to step forward and invite the Artists and Outcasts one final night in the Coenoby, as is customary.
Weapon Equipped = None
Conditions = Magic Vestment on Buckler (1/9h), -9 con (drain)
Life Link (10)(100’) = Eri, Edi, Mort, Sol, Tynan
Channel Energy (0/9)(2/7) (DC: 23)(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) (1/3)
Melee Attack: BAB +7/+2, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +7/+2, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 10, Concentration +16)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (16): Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, 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): (2/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Protection from Evil Communal
Third (19): (1/7) Cure Serious Wounds, Daylight, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer
Fourth (20): (0/6) Blessings of Fervor, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration
Fifth (21): (2/4) Air Walk Communal, Breath of Life, Cure Light Wounds Mass
Ascaria relaxes back to his heels as the Queen departs. Whew.
Ekaym Smallcask approaches his Legio, only after the Queen is well and truly departed. "Well then." He takes a second look, making sure. He turns back to you with a well-crafted smile. "You were wonderful out there! I would say more, here, but I think you've earned a well-deserved rest. Please, find yourselves some respite, and attend me at my estate tomorrow night." Ekaym motions in the direction of Talabir, who stands respectfully at a distance, waiting to step forward and invite the Artists and Outcasts one final night in the Coenoby, as is customary.
He nods, ”We’ll be there.”
He eyes Talabir, and wonders what his orders truly are. ”Two minutes Talabir, please.” he turns to the others and whispers, ”I cannot heal Sol and I today, but I can help the rest of you a little. We’re in the belly of the beast, and must be careful not to be digested.”
He casts a Lesser Restoration on everyone in the group who can benefit, healing a little of their Constitution damage.
Once back in the Coenoby, he relaxes further in the protected room, so familiar. His stomach growls from the battles and the excitement. He looks to the others, ”Anyone hungry?”
Can we go now? Please let us go. Now.
"Sorry Majesty, I was more of requesting your permission" Eidi scratches his beard "After placing your Majesty in such danger in that irresponsible way as Loris did on calling that wild creature without the corresponding countermeasures... I was wondering if you would allow us to made the adequate arrangements and adjustments to such a thing never happen again"
Yah! Yah, that was it your Righteous Ruler Over Infernal People Ingesting Maggots! YOU were in danger! Such carelessness in and among your ranks! Mortimer looks around, as if he expects everyone to still be staring at him. Uh-oh! I must look like I'm seething with contempt right now! I better be careful. ... ' hope no one here can read minds...
He clears his throat quietly, thankful that it is the thing to which his head is still attached, and relaxes a little as the Queen addresses Eidi.
When Abrogail commands them to leave Her presence, Mortimer wastes no time looking for the way out. Not finding it, he stands patiently waiting, enduring Ekaym.
Why can't we leave with him now?
”Two minutes Talabir, please.” he turns to the others and whispers, ”I cannot heal Sol and I today, but I can help the rest of you a little. We’re in the belly of the beast, and must be careful not to be digested.”
Mortimer looks around doubtfully. "Hey, Little Guy," he whispers, kneeling down to peer at Ascaria more closely. "Did you get hit in the head really hard or something? This is not digestion, this is no beast's belly -- Trust me, I know. This is just Hell."
He closes his eyes and once again enjoys the massaging and refreshing effects of being connected with life energy as Ascaria casts his spell.
"We should be free from it soon enough, right?" he says quietly, as they descend down into the Cenoby.
~~~
Why are we here again?
"Anyone hungry?”
"For answers, yes. Something's not sitting quite right, it seems. How did that thing get free? Was it just a matter of time, or did we inadvertently complete the spell? You know -- maybe by killing the Zombification of Ekaym's Sister?" he pauses for a moment to regain air.
"... and that was It -- the thing we saw in the egg -- right? All hatched and grown up?" He shudders. "... do you think they have more of those things? Does it mean the scrolls are gone?"
He peers down at his waist suspiciously, keeping his arms out away from his sides to reveal the Gauntlet Champion Belt. "And just what are these things they gave us, anyway? Can we touch them? Will they come off? What does it mean? What exactly did we just accomplish?!"
Solrisa smiles at Ekaym and laughs, offering the man a hug of joy.
"We did it. Most of it, anyway. We stopped the bad monster and Loris and didn't die, which is pretty good, right? And we found the rotting corpse of your sister too. It's perfect," Solrisa seems really happy about things despite the ookiness in her stomach. She *almost* doesn't want to go eat victory cookies and ham. Almost not.
"Ekaym, I don't feel so good. I don't suppose you have anything to fix my tummy?" Solrisa smiles and tries to hide her ill feelings.
Outside of that, Solrisa seems quite happy to go down and eat. She talks of everyone's noble and heroic doings other than her own, cheering for each member of the party in turn.
Eidi accepts things will not be done today and he is happy to retreat with the others.
"Because of the moment it appeared, it is my believe it responded to Loris call... Fortunately I am pretty sure what we did before weakened it, otherwise we would have not won today... the elder reflects a bit before adding "Anyway we won today thanks to our faith and well... a lot of raw luck"
The half-elf smiles at Ascaria and Solrisa "I can require a couple of prayers tomorrow, I am sure they can fully help you, the problem is we need to gather 100 gold pieces diamond dust for each of you", Eidi looks at the diamonds in the new acquired winner's belt.
Weapon Equipped = None
Conditions = Magic Vestment on Buckler (1/9h), -9 con (drain)
Life Link (10)(100’) = Eri, Edi, Mort, Sol, Tynan
Channel Energy (0/9)(2/7) (DC: 23)(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) (1/3)
Melee Attack: BAB +7/+2, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +7/+2, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 10, Concentration +16)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (16): Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, 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): (0/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Protection from Evil Communal
Third (19): (1/7) Cure Serious Wounds, Daylight, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer
Fourth (20): (0/6) Blessings of Fervor, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration
Fifth (21): (2/4) Air Walk Communal, Breath of Life, Cure Light Wounds Mass
"For answers, yes. Something's not sitting quite right, it seems. How did that thing get free? Was it just a matter of time, or did we inadvertently complete the spell? You know -- maybe by killing the Zombification of Ekaym's Sister?" he pauses for a moment to regain air.
"... and that was It -- the thing we saw in the egg -- right? All hatched and grown up?" He shudders. "... do you think they have more of those things? Does it mean the scrolls are gone?"
He peers down at his waist suspiciously, keeping his arms out away from his sides to reveal the Gauntlet Champion Belt. "And just what are these things they gave us, anyway? Can we touch them? Will they come off? What does it mean? What exactly did we just accomplish?!"
”I agree with Eidi, someone clearly controlled the beast, though I know not who - Loris is a good suspect.” he fills his mouth with food if available.
Swallowing hard, he tries to answer Mort’s other questions, ”I hope they don’t have more of those things. And I’m pretty sure they don’t. I think if they did, Loris would have used it on us again. Finish us off. No, they don’t have those just lying around. I think it’ll be some time before they can grow another.”
”Yeah, aren’t these belts amazing?!” he admires the glint of light off the belt he wears. ”I could do with a little less Asmodeous, but they sure are pretty. But yeah, we should probably take them off and pack them carefully.” He looks a little fondly at the belt as he takes it off and puts it carefully in his haversack.
The half-elf smiles at Ascaria and Solrisa "I can require a couple of prayers tomorrow, I am sure they can fully help you, the problem is we need to gather 100 gold pieces diamond dust for each of you", Eidi looks at the diamonds in the new acquired winner's belt.
”No fears Eidi. I too can cast that particular spell - and I brought a sack of diamond dust for the purpose! If you like, we can split the duty - I’ll heal Sol and you can heal me. That way we both have most of our spells for tomorrow.”
”Now that it’s a little quieter, I want to see about Eri and Eidi a bit more. I didn’t get you guys as well as I’d have liked…”
”I’m out of those for the day, but I’ll have more tomorrow and should be able to help those who still need it.”
"Ekaym, I don't feel so good. I don't suppose you have anything to fix my tummy?"
How'd I miss -- oh, right. The Breath Weapon...
Mortimer turns to Eidi and Ascaria and whispers,"Because of the moment it appeared, it is my believe it responded to Loris call... Fortunately I am pretty sure what we did before weakened it, otherwise we would have not won today..."
"Ohhhh! That makes sense! I didn't want that to be on us!"
As Ascaria addresses some of his other questions, Mortimer breathes a sigh of relief.
"... yah it means two things -- We don't have to go back down there now to check it, and if they have more -- it's unlikely that they have any significant amount more of those -- things... I hope..." I really hope...
"I can require a couple of prayers tomorrow, I am sure they can fully help you, the problem is we need to gather 100 gold pieces diamond dust for each of you"”No fears Eidi. I too can cast that particular spell - and I brought a sack of diamond dust for the purpose!"
Glad that no one noticed it was being proffered, Mortimer sadly looks down at his diamond dust nail file, and quickly puts it away.
Eri listens and his growing paranoia is eased somewhat by the thoughtful discourse.
"We should continue to sleep in shifts tonight, even though almost all the combatants are back home in their beds. I don't like sitting here right under their thumb all night."
Eri thoughtfully spoons some food onto his plate.
Can we move to another room? We'll look week and scared."
"Are there any magic protections we can put in our room tonight? Hmm. I wonder if they would be safer attacking us after we leave? Maybe bringing us to 'justice' on some nonsense charge?"
Solrisa says nothing when everyone else seems to get healed from the ickiness other than her. She smiles and holds in the ick because she wants others to be happy.
She eats what she can and listens to people talking, but isn't feeling too well.
Maybe tomorrow I'll be able to fix myself a bit.
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Why is it more dank and dark than usual down here? It's just us and the guards. And it's so quiet...
His gaze falls upon Solrisa.
Of course! It's the brightening cheery ring of her voice and laughter that's missing!
Mortimer's heart sinks when he realizes that Solrisa is not going to feel better soon. He gets busy collecting five small shiny tearshaped stones from the creek, and one extremely pretty round stone. He places the five smaller stones around the round prettiest one, and binds them together in the form of a flower brooch by weaving lightweight cord around and behind them. He then secures it all together with a bit of wax.
Pleased, he then presents the brooch to Solrisa as a gift in an attempt to cheer her up, explaining:
"Each of these little petals represents one of us, but the center -- that's -- I like to think of that as you."
Solrisa smiles, the pit in her stomach momentarily forgotten.
"Oh Mort! This is very nice! This is nicer than my belt! And I love my belt!" Solrisa offers Mort a warm (if clankily armor-metallic) hug. "I like this! And...it's for me!?"
Solrisa takes the brooch and puts it on, clanking it against her armor and looking down upon it. She smiles upon it...and finds a bit more of her hunger returning and the ickiness forgotten.
She eats.
"Two minutes Talabir, please."
The portly wizard acquiesces to the gnome's request, gladly. His is the look of a proud father, looking upon his son, newly graduated from the Academy.
Talabir is genuine in his look of admiration for each member of the Artists and Outcasts. His mannerisms convey an absence of nervousness or complicity.
"Ekaym, I don't feel so good. I don't suppose you have anything to fix my tummy?"
When it is clear that the gnome is done with his initial ministrations, Talabir beckons an Attendant to him. "Please be sure to bring the Cart to the Coenoby." The young man nods vigorously, and takes off without further instruction. Talabir smiles contentedly, turning to Ekaym and Solrisa. "Do not worry, Ekaym. Our Champions shall be fully restored, and able to venture out into Egorian in no time."
Ekaym takes Talabir's hand, bowing briefly, and excuses himself, joining in the slow exodus to the stairs to the surface.
Talabir offers his hamhock upper arm to the maiden, and escorts you all to the Coenoby. Descending the stairs from the Observation Deck, to the Elevator to the Catafalque Understructure, you are privileged to see the destruction of the obsidian dome in the central hub room. It is unclear from your vantage if Bozal's den is accessible through the collapsed rubble. Hard to say. "We encourage the Champions each year to spend the night, you see, so you can rest and depart on your terms, after the adoring crowds have thinned a bit. So many of them will linger in Thrune Square, hoping to see you in passing, but over a night, or an early morning departure, and you're largely free to return to your former lives." He chuckles, understanding the glorious lie in his last sentence.
Several Gold Cloaks accompany you all down into the Coenoby. Once you're situated, Talabir once again offers his congratulations. He notifies the Guard, the Physician, and the Kitchen that the Artists and Outcasts not be denied even the littlest request. With that, he excuses himself and his Gold Cloak contingent.
...
The Physician comes forth from his office in the Coenoby, having waited politely in the doorway, until Talabir has spoken his peace. "Alright then. Your meals will taste better if your pain is dismissed first." He waves to the same Attendant from earlier, who rolls forward a rather ornate, blackwood Cart, placing it just outside the office door.
When the Physician raises the lid of the Cart, you are treated to a number of spell components and tightly-tucked scrolls. Glass jars of charcoal, blood mixtures, and yes, even diamond dust. A beautifully-smithed measuring scale is raised up as the lid of the Cart fully births its contents.
He turns to you, pleased to take each of your ailments, and remedy them all.
The Kitchen staff is reduced to single server and cook, but the food is no less glorious. A honey-glazed sea bass is prepared, on a bed of sweetened potatoes, as well as a bacon risotto and filet for those of you in the mood for redder meat. The afternoon passes into late afternoon, and the mood is calm, for the Gold Cloaks relaxing at the tables and benefiting from food excesses. Now that a Champion Legio has been declared, the pressure of vigilance appears much laxer than on previous nights.
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Solrisa, feeling much better by virtue of the brooch around her neck and restoratives upon her life essence, wonders when the cookies will be coming out.
She hungry. And wants cookies.
Champions should have cookies.
Betwixt halfling and human occupying the kitchen, smells begin to permeate the kitchen in dulcet tones. It does take some time, following the main meal preparations, but soon enough, small trays of cookies begin to appear, with a clustering towards the maiden's end of the dining tables.
First, kurabiyesi, brown biscuits made of almonds, sugar and egg whites. Following the first oven's yield, alfajor, two smaller cake biscuits joined together by red jam, powdered with sugar. Next, apple cider cookies, then rectangular spice biscuits made of honey, almond, and candied peel. Half moon cookies, covered in both white chocolate and dark chocolate fondant, share the same trays as caramel shortbreads.
Finally, cat's tongue cookies, crisp and hot, which are paired with the fresh kahve, so you may enjoy dunking.
Weapon Equipped = None
Conditions = Magic Vestment on Buckler (4/9h)
Life Link (10)(100’) = Eri, Edi, Mort, Sol, Tynan
Channel Energy (0/9)(2/7) (DC: 23)(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) (1/3)
Melee Attack: BAB +7/+2, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +7/+2, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 10, Concentration +16)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (16): Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, 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): (0/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Protection from Evil Communal
Third (19): (1/7) Cure Serious Wounds, Daylight, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer
Fourth (20): (0/6) Blessings of Fervor, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration
Fifth (21): (2/4) Air Walk Communal, Breath of Life, Cure Light Wounds Mass
Ascaria watches very carefully as their so-called physician does his job. He insists on going before Sol to make sure the process is what it should be, and safe. When he finishes with Sol, and the other lingering con damage in the party, he smiles and shakes the man’s hand. ”Well done sir. Couldn’t have done it better myself!” he exclaims. ”Thank you, I feel much better for your healing touch.”
He eats somewhat ravenously, mostly nervous tension releasing itself. By the time the cookies start to come out, he’s well full and skips the sweet stuff - though he saves one or two for later to be sure!
"That's one hell-of-a amulet there Mort. Really shines on you Sol!"
At one point, when the kahve comes out, he tries enhancing it into wine, but the heavy stuff that comes out the other end isn’t terribly palatable to him and he skips it sticking to whatever's offered, though he drinks sparingly.
In the end though he’s exhausted - as much from food-coma as the earlier fighting, though the healing helped a LOT.
”We should post watches tonight.” he murmurs through a soft burp. ”Sol and Eri, Eidi and Tynan, me and Mort. Sound good?”
If everyone agrees, he considers his job done and turns in early, ready to be awakened by Eidi and Tynan in a few hours…
""We should continue to sleep in shifts tonight, even though almost all the combatants are back home in their beds. I don't like sitting here right under their thumb all night."
"Agreed."
Mortimer eyes Talabir.
"Look at Talabir, though. If there is an ambush on us afoot, he's not part of it. He's just acting like his job is done, that it was a well done job and he caught a great fantasic "catch" ... If anything happens, it's all Loris and Kendra."
Mortimer frowns, then shakes his head. Caught, like some school of fish. Now with these belts, aside from Loris -- what does it mean?
~~~
Mortimer keeps a few paces in front of Talibir, the presumed "Enclave" leader as they walk down to the Cenoby.
"We encourage the Champions each year to spend the night, you see, so you can rest and depart on your terms, after the adoring crowds have thinned a bit. So many of them will linger in Thrune Square, hoping to see you in passing, but over a night, or an early morning departure, and you're largely free to return to your former lives."
"Really?! More Women? More Men? MORE Adoring Fans? We had all that before, right everyone?" Mortimer projects, as he "follows" Talabir down into the Cenoby, spinning all the way around once on his heel at the very end of his statement to address the Everyone behind him. "I think we can handle it. Yes, it's fine." He stops in front of Talabir. "You should let us go back up now," he nods, "we'll be fine," he concludes, confidently.
~~~
"Oh Mort! This is very nice! This is nicer than my belt! And I love my belt!"
Love! ... Belt?!! Mortimer thinks, letting her hug him, trying not to let his chainmail shirt scratch her plate, trying not to hold on to her for too short, trying not to hold on to her for far too long, trying not to screw any of the moment up.
It's so warm. I think my heart is melting.
He's heartened when he sees a bit of her appetite return.
He's heartened even more when everyone is restored to full health.
"Oh, yah! And does anyone know if these belts do more than just sit around the waist looking like an Infernal belt? Is this all it does?"
"Oh, yah! And does anyone know if these belts do more than just sit around the waist looking like an Infernal belt? Is this all it does?"
"Oh, good call!" Ascaria yawns and casts Detect Magic on the belt, looking for auras - just in case.
”We should post watches tonight.” he murmurs through a soft burp. ”Sol and Eri, Eidi and Tynan, me and Mort. Sound good?”
"Whoa! He must have gotten hit hard!" Mortimer exclaims mid-yawn , gesturing at Ascaria. His voice gets softer, and he starts to mumble: "Him, me -- you guys and you guys... what he said..."
Mortimer drifts off to sleep.
Eidi produces his cookies pot from one of his tunic's sleeves and starts refilling the container with all sorts of them. The elder turns to the cooker and with wide smile offers the still not full pot to her "Do you mind if we could have some chocolate ones?"
------
The half-elf yawns too "Ok... yeah... I will... wake you up... Ascar..." he drops into the bed and his eyes quickly close up "ia... ia..."
Solrisa is happy to let Ascaria go first for healing...but not because of any worries of ill doing, but that Solrisa genuinely wants Ascaria to happy and healthy and stop hurting the way that Sol hurts.
After her own healing, she hugs the physician gratefully, because hugs are important and the man was a helper.
And with that, Solrisa dives into the cookies, trying a few of each and deciding exactly which ones she liked the best, then eating a lot more of them. It was a meal for champions and Solrisa was a champion and so she should eat as many cookies as she wished.
"Rae and I used to eat cookies sometimes. We'd each get two but then Rae would get an extra one of mine after Mum left because she was the older sister. She said that Mum explained it to her and that's how cookies worked. And because Rae was such a good sister, I was happy to give her my extra cookie, because I only needed one," Solrisa explains as she looks around making sure that everyone has enough cookies.
Solrisa smiles and thinks.
"Mum and Rae would be proud of me, right? We did a good thing today, right?" Solrisa asks, but she knows the answer.
"And tomorrow, we'll do more good things, starting with ending Loris. And that day will be a good day too."
Eri is famished and eats a grand feast and does not save room for dessert, but eats quickly before the message gets to his brain.
"It's a good thing I have first watch. I have a food baby that makes sleep impossible."
Eri begins his watch painfully pacing, trying to work some of that food around.
Tynan joins the others for the celebratory meal, and gratefully accepts the ministrations of the physician.
Maybe they aren't planning to kill us immediately, otherwise they wouldn't have wasted so much time healing us...
"Mum and Rae would be proud of me, right? We did a good thing today, right?"
"Yes, we did a very good thing... and I know they would both be very proud of you." Tynan gives Sol a smile.
"Mum and Rae would be proud of me, right? We did a good thing today, right?" Solrisa asks, but she knows the answer.
"Yes, we won free cookies" happily adds Eidi as he attempts to get as much as possible.
------ ------
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzz
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Mortimer eyes the honey glazed seabass warily.
Why do they have to ruin perfectly good fish by coating it with stuff?
He helps himself to a very small portion, then regards the rest of the food offerings, frowns, then carves off another hunk of fish.
He balks when offered cookies. "I have to stay on my toes," he explains.
Mortimer tries to palm two chocolate cookies without anyone noticing.
He will eat one before bedtime, and despite Eidi's efforts to stock up on them, Mort stashes the other in his sack in case of emergency.
~~~~
"ia... ia... ... ... ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzz
Mortimer groggily opens one eye to look upon that which has inadvertantly disturbed his slumber.
"Gee, That Old Half Elf sounds like a bear now. I didn't think he had that much lung capacity. When is his watch?" Ah, Hells. Wake me if anything happens!
He rolls over and places a fluffed pillow on top of his own head to block out some of the noise, then returns to sleep.
Solrisa smiles as she thinks about her Mum and sister, then smiles even more at the cookies, then even more as she looks around at her friends around the table.
She knows the job isn't done, but she is happy here and now with friends and cookies and memories of victory and lamentations of the vanquished ringing in her ears.
When it is her turn for watch, she takes it while polishing her armor and checking her weapons...she puts the belt away as she doesn't love it as much as her new brooch. Only one of the two items has true value to her.
"I think we can handle it. Yes, it's fine. You should let us go back up now, we'll be fine."
Talabir pulls up short, his gaze mostly dedicated to the maiden, when the giant rears up in front of him. "Oh. Well, I'm not one to tell you no. If you're ready to take your leave, by all means. Your Legio doesn't look very, uh, healthy, though, so perhaps you'd at least like to visit with our Physician before you depart?"
...
The belts are well-crafted, but don't detect as magic in any way.
The Physician's healing skill is superior, indeed. For his acumen, you surmise that his arts are likely on retainer for very wealthy citizens of Egorian, or possibly royalty itself. His ability to cast from the scrolls appears effortless, and his attention to exact amounts of spell components borders on obsessive-compulsive.
"Well done, sir. Couldn’t have done it better myself! Thank you, I feel much better for your healing touch.”
The Physician raises his hand in polite protest. "All things are possible, praise Asmodeus, should He deign. Do not thank me, I am merely His conduit." He draws a pregnant pause, into which the gnome is encouraged to drop words of gratitude to the Archfiend.
"Do you mind if we could have some chocolate ones?"
The halfling server appears relieved, as she's given direction with regards to the baking preparations. "Of course, your Grace." It is a while longer, before the chocolate confections begin to arrive, but arrive, they do. Some half-dipped in melted chocolate, some skewed dark chocolate, most milk-based. It is still a little perplexing how the kitchen is able to bring forth such diverse batches, but the cookies are baked to perfection, and are a thing of admiration in and of itself.
Even Mortimer can't seem to resist these new chocolate-based batches, which compel him to try squirreling away two of them with a sleight of his large hand.
...
The night passes uneventfully, through all watches. The Gold Cloaks are relieved of their posts at the appropriate times, and the morning greets you with a peaceful quiet.
A pair of Gold Cloaks wait to escort you from the Coenoby for the last time this year. They don't appear to be in any rush to do so, waiting for your morning preparations. The Kitchen is now closed.
Egorian awaits your return.
Weapon Equipped = None
Conditions = Magic Vestment on Buckler (1/10h)
Life Link (10)(100’) = Eri, Edi, Mort, Sol, Tynan
Channel Energy (9/9)(7/7) (DC: 23)(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) (3/3)
Melee Attack: BAB +7/+2, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +7/+2, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 10, Concentration +16)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (16): Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Guidance, Light, Purify Food and Drink, Spark, Stabilize
First (17): (8/8) Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Diagnose Disease, Enhance Water, Liberating Command, Remove Fear
Second (18): (8/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Protection from Evil Communal
Third (19): (7/7) Cure Serious Wounds, Daylight, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer
Fourth (20): (6/6) Blessings of Fervor, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration
Fifth (21): (4/4) Air Walk Communal, Breath of Life, Cure Light Wounds Mass
Ascaria mumbles the right prayer to Asmodeus, as he was taught from a young age. He does a passable job of it too. He's impressed by the physician, and it shows. I guess healers come in all shapes and sizes.
In the morning, he feels quite refreshed. After his own prayer to Cayden Cailean, more heartfelt to be sure, he is ready to face a new day. Before the group heads out however, he makes sure their healing links are intact. ”Once we’re out there, Loris may move against us again, or he may wait a few days for the attention to wear off. Either way, let’s be on our toes.”
He casts Magic Vestment on his buckler and Sol’s shield and generally makes himself ready to head back out into the city.
”Where should we head first?” he asks the group, ”We’ve a meeting with Ekaym at supper. What until then? We do have a few things to sell, but not much in the grand scheme of things. Still, it’s something to do.”
”Where should we head to first?”
Solrisa smiles as Ascaria protects her shield. It makes her happy every time.
"I think we should go kill Loris. We'll go right back the direct we came and go end his evil now. That's what I think we should to," Solrisa says matter-of-factly as if it's the only logical thing to do. In her mind, it is.
"But also, if you don't want to go, I'll go and do it and come back to find you. But it should be done. And we should go there now."
As soon as he realizes it is safe to do so, Mortimer removes the Gauntlet Champion Belt and buries it at the bottom of his backpack.
Maybe later I'll think of something useful to turn that into.
As Ascaria begins his prayer to Asmodeus, Mortimer turns a shade paler and begins to sweat. He turns his back and bites his tongue to distract himself further as he shifts things noisily around in his Haversack.
So he has to, but ugh! That tone! [ ... ] Why and how does he even know that?!
"We've a meeting with Ekaym at supper. What until then? We do have a few things to sell, but not much in the grand scheme of things. Still, it's something to do."
Mortimer look of surprise turns into a skeptical scowl when Ascaria asks if anyone would like to keep any of the treasure in the "To Sell" pile.
"Where should we head first?""I think we should go kill Loris [ ... ]. But also, if you don't want to go, I'll go and do it and come back to find you. But it should be done. And we should go there now."
Mortimer shakes his head, partly in obvious conflict with his own instinct.
"No! No! Of course we want to go! But ... we don't know where to find him anymore. Which way was the direct one? Maybe Ekaym knows something, and wants to help. We should see what he has to say or offer first."
He pauses for a second, shifting his thoughts around.
"In the very least -- finances allowing -- I think I might want to browse for a new weapon before we try to confront them again," he softly announces.
Eidi stretches his back as he wakes up "Mmmm... that was a really good sleep", the half-elf smiles happy.
"Loris... well, we might not know right now, but there is chance we might know in just a few hours..." the elder scratches his short bear "Do you think we might find out a locate creature scroll out there?"
Eidi leaves most of his slots open for later study, as he first attempts to find some wizard in the city or scroll from whom he might learn locate creature to find Loris.
"Oh, why don't you go find the scroll, Eidi, and I'll go back down and check that library we saw. Down by the bad thing and the green light," Sol says helpfully, happy to split the party as necessary. "And I wonder if the evil scrolls are still down there."
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"I think we should go kill Loris. We'll go right back the direct we came and go end his evil now. That's what I think we should to," Solrisa says matter-of-factly as if it's the only logical thing to do. In her mind, it is.
"But also, if you don't want to go, I'll go and do it and come back to find you. But it should be done. And we should go there now."
"I agree Sol, Loris needs to go. But Mort may be right. Ekaym might have something for us - information on Loris, and what's been going on the last few days while we've been down in the earth - cut off."
When Eidi suggests a more frontal approach, Ascaria frowns a bit. "I'm not sure we want to go that route Eidi. I mean, he'd see us coming a mile away." he frowns at his own mouth and adds,"But of course he knows we're coming at him anyway huh - so yeah, that's not a bad idea maybe."
"Oh, why don't you go find the scroll, Eidi, and I'll go back down and check that library we saw. Down by the bad thing and the green light," Sol says helpfully, happy to split the party as necessary. "And I wonder if the evil scrolls are still down there."
"Oh, good idea. That library. I bet, with a little time, we could totally figure out where that house is on the other side of the secret door where the ladies were talking before. That might be where Loris is - or at the least be a likely nest of vipers."
His head is spinning with all the avenues they have at their disposal. "Look. Let's not rush around all separated and make it easy for Loris and his goons to pick us off. We go together, and gather information as we may today."
"This morning, let's find that house if we can. We won't go in yet, let's just know where it is and see what we can learn about it. This afternoon, let's go shopping and ask around about Loris. Then tonight we meet with our sponsor and see what he has learned."
He smiles broadly at the plan, "Tomorrow, we track down and kill Loris. Easy." he laughs, maybe a little too hard.
vs DC 10
"I need to go down and make sure the scrolls aren't still there. We can't leave them laying around. I wish I had thought of it sooner...I should have gone to get them last night, but I was too excited about cookies for remembering," Solrisa says, holding her tummy in happy memory of cookies, but also with some regret about forgetting about the scrolls.
"It's possible that no one has gone down there to get them. I should go get them before someone else gets them."