Red Hand of Doom [E6] (Inactive)

Game Master Aldizog

Daniel takes a small step forward and atacks one of the devils.

Gloom blade 1st Attack PA GH IC H : 1d20 + 14 - 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 14 - 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 = 26 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 20

5' step attack

Bran moves up, hoping to drop them with the power of the hasted assault.

PA: 1d20 + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 35
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1d6 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (6, 4) + 8 + 2 + 2 + (5) + 6 + 1 = 34

Hasted: 1d20 + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 34
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1d6 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (3, 5) + 8 + 2 + 2 + (2) + 6 + 1 = 29

-5: 1d20 + 6 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 6 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 27
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1d6 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (3, 4) + 8 + 2 + 2 + (5) + 6 + 1 = 31

Not going to bother with Pushing here, seems unneeded with the current position. If he kills the black one he will switch to the other.

I think Tal's actual HP is lower, she was down 8, took half damage from dread bolt (16), and ate 12 melee damage. So she's down 36.

What's the radius on Invisibility Purge? Tal really wants to be invisible at some point. Also, how high are those pedestals?

I'm assuming Bran drops the Black devil in this post.

As one of the devils falls, Tal dashes away from the other.
Acrobatics to avoid AOO, full speed, Good Hope: 1d20 + 16 - 10 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 16 - 10 + 2 = 23
She then tries to leap up.
Acrobatics, Boots of Springing and Striding, Haste, Good Hope: 1d20 + 16 + 5 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 16 + 5 + 12 + 2 = 36
If she makes it, she finds some cover behind a dragon statue. Regardless, she pops out a potion and drinks it.
spring-loaded wrist sheathe to draw potion, drink it.
Cure Serious Wounds: 3d8 + 5 ⇒ (2, 7, 1) + 5 = 15

The Radius on Invisibility Purge is 35 ft. Tal'ariel was down 37, not 27 - my typo. She took 13 from the melee attacks. It is actually 30' up to the balcony level, but she is Hasted and Flying so no problem.
The central pedestal doesn't say, but let's suppose it is 5' high.

Bran is able to finish off the wounded devil. Daniel injures another.
White at -20.

Tal'ariel is not quite fast enough to avoid the devil entirely, and its tail stinger catches her.
Tail AOO: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28
Damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8

So Tal'ariel is now down 30 after the 8 damage from the AOO and the 15 from healing.

Hamailii again readies a shot turning off Deadly Aim and using Bullseye Shot.

The Wyrmlord casts another spell, and Hamailii's terrible luck continues as her arrow once again fails to land. Your thoughts are overwhelmed with madness.
Kill the elves!
Flee!
Ph'nglui mglw'nafh Cthulhu R'lyeh wgah'nagl fhtagn!
Confusion

Bran Will, Good Hope: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 6 + 2 = 25
Daniel Will: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 12 + 2 = 25
Hamailii Will: 1d20 + 13 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 13 + 2 + 2 = 33
Trellara Will: 1d20 + 7 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 7 + 2 + 2 = 27

Everybody resists the spell. The High Wyrmlord casts another spell and a chaotic blast of multicolored hues surrounds him. Quickened Entropic Shield.

The last Abishai tries to buy more time for its master, attacking Bran.
Tail: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29
Damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9
Claw: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18
Claw: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10
Bite: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

Trellara flies to join Tal'ariel, and heals her.
CLW: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10

Round 3 - GOOD HOPE, INSPIRE COURAGE +2, HASTE, COMMUNAL PROT EVIL, COMMUNAL RESIST ENERGY (ALL), INSPIRING FLEX
Hamailii
Azarr Kul
Abishai (White -20)
Trellara
Bran -15
Daniel -7
Tal'ariel -20

PA: 1d20 + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 36
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1d6 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (6, 5) + 8 + 2 + 2 + (6) + 6 + 1 = 36

Haste: 1d20 + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 24
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1d6 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (5, 6) + 8 + 2 + 2 + (4) + 6 + 1 = 34

-5: 1d20 + 6 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 6 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 24
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1d6 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (3, 5) + 8 + 2 + 2 + (2) + 6 + 1 = 29

Critical?: 1d20 + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 11 - 2 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 34
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (5, 5) + 8 + 2 + 2 + 6 + 1 = 29

Driving the weapon down, Bran hopes to destroy the Abishai as fast as possible and cover the gap to the wyrmlord.

Full attack, if the Crit kills he will move to threaten the Wyrmlord

Bran finishes the last devil with a single mighty blow.

Going to drop Flex at the start of next round, so get those big hits in!

Seeing the abishai fall to the greatsword, Bran rushes toward the wyrmlord.

"Don't let it cast more spells or summon more fiends!"

Daniel moves up to the priest and attacks.

Gloom blade PA H IF IC: 1d20 + 14 - 2 + 1 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 14 - 2 + 1 + 4 + 2 = 38 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 21
Gloom blade PA H IF IC Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 14 - 2 + 1 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 14 - 2 + 1 + 4 + 2 = 38 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 23

I imagine his back is to the pillar so I can't flank or I would move to there.

Totally forgot I was flying!

"Thanks, Trellara," says Tal'ariel as she receives more healing. She takes a sip from her sipping jacket and vanishes. Moving forward to get a sight line on the enemy once more, she prepares to cast a spell to disrupt the wyrmlord.

Readied action to Snowball him from invisibility
Snowball vs Ranged Touch, Invisible, Flex, Inspire Courage, Haste: 1d20 + 9 + 2 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 9 + 2 + 4 + 2 = 30; Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (5, 3, 4, 3, 6) = 21; Sneak Damage?: 2d6 ⇒ (4, 4) = 8

51-100 negates crit: 1d100 ⇒ 30
Daniel moves up and lands a critical hit!

Hamailii moves for a clear shot and readies an arrow to interrupt.

Seeing that he is about to be flanked, High Wyrmlord Azarr Kul tries a spell to aid his repositioning.
He casts Grace, but is interrupted by both an arrow from Hamailii and a Snowball from Tal'ariel!
Hamailii's arrow again fails to injure the Wyrmlord, however.
81-100 snowball deflected by Entropic Shield: 1d100 ⇒ 77
@Tal'ariel, Inspiring Flex does not help the ranged attacks, but you still get the +2 morale to hit from Good Hope.
51-100 negates sneak attack: 1d100 ⇒ 45

The Wyrmlord strikes twice at Daniel before stepping back.
Heavy Pick, PA: 1d20 + 20 - 3 ⇒ (14) + 20 - 3 = 31
Damage: 1d8 + 10 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 10 + 6 = 20

Iterative: 1d20 + 15 - 3 ⇒ (14) + 15 - 3 = 26
Damage: 1d8 + 10 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 10 + 6 = 18

The dragon-fang pick hits hard, but Daniel is still in the fight.

Trellara flies over and heals the paladin.
CLW: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10

Round 4 - GOOD HOPE, INSPIRE COURAGE +2, HASTE, COMMUNAL PROT EVIL, COMMUNAL RESIST ENERGY (ALL), INSPIRING FLEX
Hamailii
Azarr Kul -73
Trellara
Bran -15
Daniel -35
Tal'ariel -20

Seeing the damage, I think I can drop Flex.

Seeing his foe next to him, Bran looks it dead in the eye. "You made a huge mistake."

Greatsword, No PA: 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 26
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 1d6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (1, 3) + 8 + (2) + 2 + 2 + 1 = 19

Haste, No PA: 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 36
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 1d6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (6, 5) + 8 + (2) + 2 + 2 + 1 = 26

-5, No PA: 1d20 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 21
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 1d6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3, 6) + 8 + (4) + 2 + 2 + 1 = 26

Critical?: 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 20
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (1, 1) + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 15

Adjusting his stance, the warrior realizes he can follow him. Swift Action Martial Flexibility (2 Uses) to learn Step Up in place of Pushing Assault. Will Step Up as an Immediate.

The High Wyrmlord's armor is strong, as is his hide underneath. Only one of Bran's swings connects.

The sword's lightning does not affect the Wyrmlord. His blue scales give indication of his heritage.

Azarr Kul at -97 damage.

Tal'ariel and Daniel are up!

Daniel taps himself with his gloomblade causing some of his wounds to heal. He then steps up and attacks the cleric.

LoH: 5d6 + 1d6 ⇒ (5, 3, 1, 5, 2) + (4) = 20

Gloom blade Haste Attack TWF PA GH IC H: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 32 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 23
Gloom blade 1st Attack TWF PA GH IC H: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 17 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 23
+1 Mithral Shortsword 1st Attack TWF PA GH IC H: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 19 Damage: 1d8 + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 17
Gloom blade 2nd Attack PA GH IC H: 1d20 + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 25 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 20

Tal'ariel moves into position to attack once more, flying down to strike while the creature is distracted by Bran!

He's part hobgoblin, right? Going to add bane. You can remove it if I'm wrong.

Curve Blade, Inspire Courage, Good Hope, Haste, Outflank, Bane: 1d20 + 10 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 10 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 4 + 2 = 34; Damage, Sneak, Bane: 1d10 + 8 + 2d6 + 2 + 2d6 ⇒ (10) + 8 + (6, 1) + 2 + (2, 6) = 35

Daniel hits once, as does Tal'ariel.

51-100 negates Sneak Attack: 1d100 ⇒ 54

Creature type changes to dragon with the half-dragon template. But still (barely) a hit, for 18 damage.

Hamailii lines up another attack on the Wyrmlord, and manages to interrupt his Quickened spell.

Wyrmlord at -158.

Azarr Kul takes a step (well, flies 5') and attacks Tal'ariel!
Heavy Pick: 1d20 + 20 - 3 ⇒ (6) + 20 - 3 = 23
Iterative: 1d20 + 15 - 3 ⇒ (2) + 15 - 3 = 14

The nimble elf dodges the deadly weapon with ease.
Bran uses Step Up to follow the half-dragon.

Round 5 - GOOD HOPE, INSPIRE COURAGE +2, HASTE, COMMUNAL PROT EVIL, COMMUNAL RESIST ENERGY (ALL), INSPIRING FLEX
Hamailii
Azarr Kul -158
Trellara
Bran -15
Daniel -15
Tal'ariel -20

Tal'ariel does her own bit of flying and attacks once more.
5' step, full attack

Curve Blade, GH, IC, H, Outflank: 1d20 + 10 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 10 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 4 = 31; Damage, sneak: 1d10 + 8 + 2d6 ⇒ (8) + 8 + (4, 6) = 26
Curve Blade, GH, IC, H, Outflank: 1d20 + 10 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 10 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 4 = 27; Damage, sneak: 1d10 + 8 + 2d6 ⇒ (6) + 8 + (5, 2) = 21

But seems less successful in her strikes.

Daniel Steps up and continues his attack.

Gloom blade Haste Attack TWF PA Gh IC H: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 17 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 17
Gloom blade 1st Attack TWF PA Gh IC H: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 35 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 23
+1 Mithral Shortsword 1st Attack TWF PA Gh IC H: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 27 Damage: 1d8 + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 18
Gloom blade 2nd Attack PA Gh IC H: 1d20 + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 19 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 21

Gloom blade 1st Attack TWF PA Gh IC H Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 23 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 22

I actually dropped Flex last turn, thought we would finish him off.

GS, PA: 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 25
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (6, 3) + 8 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 28

Haste, PA: 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 11 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 32
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (6, 5) + 8 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 30

-5, PA: 1d20 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 31
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3, 5) + 8 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 27

Critical? -5: 1d20 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 14
Damage: 2d6 + 8 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (1, 2) + 8 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 22

"How much more does he have?"

I think Bran gets a +4 to his attacks due to Outflank with Tal.

As Azarr Kul is struck by Daniel, Tal'ariel seizes on an opening and strikes! Opportunist.
Curve Blade, GH, IC, H, Outflank: 1d20 + 10 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 10 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 4 = 35; Damage, Sneak: 1d10 + 8 + 2d6 ⇒ (9) + 8 + (5, 3) = 25

Tal'ariel just misses with her strikes. AC 32.
Daniel lands a telling blow (Azarr Kul at -181) and the Bran (at -218).
The Wyrmlord is staggered and should be dead. Using Diehard.
Then with a quick slash, Tal'ariel ends the leader of the Red Hand!

I stripped out his high-level spells like Antilife Shell but substantially buffed his HP. Even so, for a party of (buffed) 6th-levels, you deal a ton of damage.

As he falls to the ground, the High Wyrmlord utters one last cry...

His cry is heard.

The swirling vortex of energy above thunders and rumbles with power.
Suddenly, the energy is swept away...along with the roof itself, like an egg hatching outward. A searing hell-wind blasts through the inner sanctum, thick with the gut-churning reek of brimstone and burning flesh as a blasted landscape of twisted mountains and red lightning plagued skies is revealed to the PCs.

Where you should see the sky of the Elsir Vale, you see Hell.

Towering before you is a colossal five-headed shape. The massive blue head snatches up the body of Azarr Kul, swallowing him. The other four heads leer down at you. Their jaws open, and a deafening blast of wind and energy shrieks through the portal.

The sound is deafening, but none of you are actually deafened.

The portal closes and all is dark for a moment.

Then the jaws of the five dragon statues pulse with energy, flooding the room with light again as they breathe acid, ice, lightning, and fire into the room, converging on the upraised platform in the center of the inner sanctum.

Bran and Daniel stand in the middle of the withering assault. Between their reflexes and the magical wards, they live, but take some injury. Trellara calls out a word of magic to protect Bran from the flames of the red dragon statue.

Yes... this is an Aspect of Tiamat. An avatar of the Chromatic Goddess herself, here for revenge.

"This is it!" calls Trellara, "If this to be our last stand, it will live forever in legend!"
Re-starts INSPIRE COURAGE +2

Round 6 - GOOD HOPE, INSPIRE COURAGE +2, EXTENDED HASTE, COMMUNAL PROT EVIL, COMMUNAL RESIST ENERGY (ALL)
Trellara
Bran -29
Daniel -32
Tal'ariel -20
Hamailii
Aspect of Tiamat!

Tal shares what she might know about this aspect of Tiamat.
K. Arcana/Religion?: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (7) + 14 = 21
Interested in the results before posting, even if it ends up being 5-foot step, attack. Although that knowledge roll wasn't so good.

This is an avatar of a god. While a flesh-and-blood being, it likely is of exceptional power.
Didn't hit the DC to know anything about it.

Can Tal tell how much reach it has? Could Tal take a 5-foot step back and cast a spell safely?

15' reach.

Tal'ariel tries to move into a better position than where she was, perhaps risking an attack in the process. Move to new position.
Acrobatics: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (10) + 16 = 26

What she does next depends on the outcome of her attempt to move . . .

Bite AOO: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (5) + 21 = 26
AC is 28 with Haste and Communal Protection from Evil?

One of the dragon's heads snaps down at Tal'ariel, but she just manages to dodge.

Yes, AC28. Can Tal'ariel tell if the other heads are still threatening her? I want to maybe cast a spell, but worried about wasting the action to cast defensively.

No, she can't tell if it has Combat Reflexes or not.
Only one way to find out...

Okay, sounds good. I just realized Tal has a Rogue Talent I have forgotten about all game--Slow Reactions. Opponents damaged by her sneak attack can't take AOOs for a round. So I might use that for a safer window to cast a spell.

Tal'ariel readies an action to strike after Bran acts given the possibility that he can distract their foe. Saving my attack for the chance that Bran gives flanking.

And in case someone else lands a blow this round.

Daniel taps himself to heal his wounds and side steps while trying to remember anything about this being. He then attacks hoping he can injure it.

LoH: 5d6 + 1d6 ⇒ (2, 1, 6, 5, 1) + (5) = 20

Kn: Religion: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8

Gloom blade Haste Attack TWF PA GH IC H: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 22 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 24
Gloom blade 1st Attack TWF PA GH IC H: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 18 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 22
+1 Mithral Shortsword 1st Attack TWF PA GH IC H: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 29 Damage: 1d8 + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 16
Gloom blade 2nd Attack PA GH IC H: 1d20 + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 29 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 22

Gloom blade 2nd Attack PA GH IC H Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 19 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 = 17

Despite that Knowledge check, Daniel does recognize this being as looking an awful lot like Tiamat.

Is Daniel out of Smites? Or is it just the swift action economy issue?

Swift action economy. I've got 1 left.

Bran just looked. He had heard the scream echo through his ears and knew that whatever was coming was going to be momentous. Once his eyes opened he knew he was right.

All the statues, all of the stories, this must have been it.

Maybe another dragon... He remembered the sculptor's words and prayed loudly, loud enough that his lungs burnt.

Standard action Inspiring Flex.

"We make our stand!"

Going to Martial Flexibility for two new tools here, but I'm not sure what just yet. Sadly I don't have enough fighter levels for Unhindering Shield.

But you do have BAB +6, Bran, which is sufficient. It is BAB +6 OR Ftr4.

I completely glossed over that. Unhindering Shield + Focus it is!

Bran, do you want to have 5' stepped into a flank with Tal'ariel to trigger her readied action? Note that her action will go after yours, since she was waiting on you, so she would get the benefit of Inspiring Flex on her attack rolls. I will adjust for her damage done if you want to have done that.

Hamailii channels to heal!
Channel: 3d6 ⇒ (4, 4, 3) = 11

Then she moves back and up, so that her Invisibility Purge is not affecting you all - the dragon seems unlikely to try such tricks.

So Daniel now at -1, nearly fully healed. Which is good...

The dragon is not quick enough to strike at Hamailii as she moves, having been distracted by Tal'ariel. It does not have Combat Reflexes.

The paladin lands two solid strikes on the gigantic dragon. It retaliates, with four heads biting at him. Two land mighty blows.

Red, PA: 1d20 + 21 - 4 ⇒ (2) + 21 - 4 = 19
Blue, PA: 1d20 + 21 - 4 ⇒ (5) + 21 - 4 = 22
Green, PA: 1d20 + 21 - 4 ⇒ (14) + 21 - 4 = 31
Damage: 2d8 + 12 + 8 ⇒ (4, 5) + 12 + 8 = 29
Black, PA: 1d20 + 21 - 4 ⇒ (11) + 21 - 4 = 28
Damage: 2d8 + 12 + 8 ⇒ (2, 1) + 12 + 8 = 23

Its white head breathes an immense blast of cold at Daniel and Hamailii.
Damage: 12d8 ⇒ (7, 1, 3, 2, 7, 6, 2, 8, 8, 6, 2, 6) = 58
Daniel Reflex, Good Hope: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 12 + 2 = 28
9 damage after resistance.
Hamailii, Good Hope: 1d20 + 11 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 11 + 2 = 18
38 damage after resistance.

Finally, its wyvern-like tail stinger whips out at Daniel, missing him.
Tail Sting, PA: 1d20 + 17 - 4 ⇒ (5) + 17 - 4 = 18

The paladin has taken the full wrath of the Aspect of Tiamat for six seconds and he is still alive...

Daniel, sorry to focus fire on you like that, but a single monster splitting up its attacks would be rather blatant softballing. And you did seem the biggest threat.

Trellara tries to move to support her allies.
Acrobatics, Good Hope: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 12 + 2 = 33
She is not quite fast enough to avoid the dragon's notice...
AOO: 1d20 + 21 - 4 ⇒ (2) + 21 - 4 = 19
But she is fast enough to avoid its jaws. And has made it use up its AOO.
She casts Vanish on Daniel.

Round 7 - GOOD HOPE, INSPIRE COURAGE +2, EXTENDED HASTE, COMMUNAL PROT EVIL, COMMUNAL RESIST ENERGY (ALL)
Trellara
Bran -18
Daniel -62 (invisible)
Tal'ariel -9
Hamailii -38
Aspect of Tiamat -28 (or more depending on Tal'ariel getting flanking last round)

Actually, Trellara can Ready to cast Vanish after Daniel attacks.

Realizing he is in trouble and has to do as much damage a possible Daniel calls the power of his goddess down and smites the creature. He then gives it all he has.

Gloom blade Haste Attack TWF PA GH IC H Smite: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 = 34 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 + 7 = 26
Gloom blade 1st Attack TWF PA GH IC H Smite: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 = 39 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 + 7 = 26
+1 Mithral Shortsword 1st Attack TWF PA GH IC H Smite: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 = 31 Damage: 1d8 + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 7 = 21
Gloom blade 2nd Attack PA GH IC H Smite: 1d20 + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 ⇒ (15) + 7 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 = 30 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 + 7 = 30

Gloom blade 1st Attack TWF PA GH IC H Smite Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 12 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 5 = 21 Damage: 1d8 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 8 + 4 + 2 + 2 + 7 = 28

If it is an evil outsider add 7 damage to the first successful hit.

Daniel might go down, but he will go down fighting.

Trellara casts Vanish on him to try to buy him some time, but the paladin has definitely earned the ire of the Aspect of Tiamat.

All four attacks hit, and bypass the DR 5/Epic, for a whopping 110 damage. It is not an evil outsider - it is an evil dragon - but doesn't that also double the Smite bonus on the first attack?

Yes it does. I was figuring as an aspect of a god it was an outsider but dragon or undead works too. :)

Oh of course I will give flanking!

Bran stares the aspect down and issues a challenge! Order of the Hammer, probably won't grapple it but I might as well try at a -4 for one handed.

Hoping to aim for some large strikes, Bran finally gets used to fighting with the buckler in his hands and enters a fury at seeing Daniel get hammered.

GS, Rage, PA: 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 11 + 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 = 44
2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 6 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (6, 4) + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 6 + 4 + 1 = 34

Haste, Rage, PA: 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (5) + 11 + 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 = 29
2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 6 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (1, 3) + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 6 + 4 + 1 = 28

-5, Rage, PA: 1d20 + 6 + 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 6 + 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 = 34
2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 6 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (3, 6) + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 6 + 4 + 1 = 33

Hammer Grapple (MIGHT AS WELL!): 1d20 + 15 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 - 4 ⇒ (6) + 15 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 - 4 = 27
Raging Grappler: 2d6 + 1d4 + 12 + 2 + 2 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (3, 5) + (3) + 12 + 2 + 2 + 6 + 1 = 34

Critical?: 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (9) + 11 + 2 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 4 - 2 = 33
2d6 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 6 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (4, 3) + 8 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 6 + 4 + 1 = 31

Calling out to Tal'ariel, he strikes in tandem with the elf.

"Take it down! We can do this, we've come so far!"

Ok some attack roll math. +24 total = +11 Normally, +1 Unhindered, +2 Rage, +4 Inspiring Flex, +2 Inspire Courage, +1 Haste, +1 Bull's Strength, +4 Outflank, -2 Power Attack.

Damage roll math. 2d6 Greatsword + 12 Strength at 2 Handed (4 Base + 2 Enhancement + 2 Rage) + 2 Inspire + 2 Good Hope + 2 Weapon Enhancement + 6 Power Attack + 1 Challenge.

Current AC is -2 from Rage, +1 from Haste, +1 Protection from Evil

Tal'ariel takes the opening that Bran gives her! Opportunist
AOO, Flex, IC, Haste, Outflank: 1d20 + 10 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 10 + 4 + 2 + 1 + 4 = 26; Damage, IC, Sneak: 1d10 + 10 + 2d6 ⇒ (9) + 10 + (5, 4) = 28

She attempts a couple of additional attacks!
Curve Blade: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (13) + 21 = 34; Damage, Sneak: 1d10 + 10 + 2d6 ⇒ (4) + 10 + (2, 3) = 19
Curve Blade: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (20) + 21 = 41; Damage, Sneak: 1d10 + 10 + 2d6 ⇒ (2) + 10 + (6, 3) = 21
Crit?: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (15) + 21 = 36; Damage, Sneak: 1d10 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 10 = 16

If Tal's crit lands, triggers Outflank, Bran can take an AOO.

Wow.

Daniel's assault spurs the competitive nature of the champion of Kurgess. Not to be outdone, Bran swings the mighty greatsword and deals a terrible blow to the dragon. Crit confirms for 60 damage after DR.

Then he hits twice more. Another 51 damage, so 111 total.

His critical hit triggers an Outflank AOO from Tal'ariel, and his second attack triggers an Opportunist AOO. So I think Tal'ariel gets two AOOs in this case, not just one.
Tal'ariel Outflank AOO: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (13) + 21 = 34
Damage: 1d10 + 10 + 2d6 ⇒ (3) + 10 + (1, 6) = 20

Tal'ariel's curve blade arcs toward the dragon's necks! She misses once but hits twice. A devastating blow by the elf allows Bran to attack yet again!

Bran Outflank AOO: 1d20 + 24 ⇒ (8) + 24 = 32
Damage: 2d6 + 24 ⇒ (1, 3) + 24 = 28

61 damage from Tal'ariel, 134 from Bran, and 110 from Daniel. Over 300 damage in one round.

The dragon roars in pain and rage! The Aspect of Tiamat falls!

We can move on to campaign wrap-up in a bit...

Wow, insane damage indeed!

Panic sets in as the Aspect of Tiamat tears into Daniel. Tal'ariel strikes with all the precision she can muster, working in deadly tandem with Bran to fight off the many-headed creature. When the dragon roars and crashes down on the dais, she's not sure she believes it. She looks around to each of her allies. "Did we do it? Did we just slay the avatar of a goddess?"

Daniel breathes heavily and falls to his knees as the dragon drops to the ground. "I thought I was dead. I appears though I will live another day thanks to all of you here. It appears dead though we should prepare in case it recovers." He stands hand heals himself.

LoH: 5d6 + 1d6 ⇒ (5, 5, 1, 6, 6) + (5) = 28

When the avatar does indeed appear dead and nothing happens he says "We should fully heal up and see if we can get anything useful intelligence out of this place. There may be more mopping up for us or for others to do."

Bran swings his sword down again and again and again, his energy focused on one thing and one thing alone... Destroying the infernal spawn in front of him.

A blow rained down.

The whippings and torture.

And another.

The people I've lost.

And another.

The corruption that turned many.

And with a heave he let off a scream before huffing. "And for me."

Hearing the others, it was honestly like he was in some kind of aquarium, their voices were just far off. The adrenaline started to wear off, and he saw nothing but pulsing energy coursing through him.

"We did it. We did it." His black eyes and cold skin had a sense of calm to it. "Death... Daniel, I wouldn't let such a thing happen to you if I could avoid it... And we did." Slumping down by the dais, he runs his hands through his hair. "Kurgess. Did you see it?"

On your way out, you take the time to clear out Azarr Kul's remaining allies in rooms you had bypassed - a ferocious Barbed Devil guarding his treasury, and a pair of Erinyes in his private quarters.

You bring back an immense amount of wealth as well as the good news of your triumph.

Upon your return to Brindol, you find life already returning to normal. The civilians who had been evacuated to Dennovar are trickling back in. Those who lived in villages and towns that have been razed will take more time to rebuild.

In the nights that follow, you have dreams...
Of one athlete bestowing a medal on another...
Of a small black bat driving off a massive dragon...
Of flying on owl-back over Starsong Hill...
You can all tell that your deities or people know of your triumph.
If Tal'ariel has a deity, then modify her dream as appropriate, but I wasn't aware of one.

You are hailed as heroes, and greeted with a parade. The Tiri Kitor elves fly above on their owls, and the people line the streets. Captain Lars Ulverth, Kharra Teskerwill, and the Lions of Brindol serve as your honor guard.

A few days later, Lord Jarmaath invites you for a private audience.

"You have accomplished the impossible. We would not be here if you had failed. I cannot express my gratitude enough. I will reward you to the extent that I can."

He commissions powerful magic items for you all, or improvements to what you have.
While I have ideas of what these might have been in an ongoing campaign, it would be an unfair tease to give you items you wouldn't get to use, so use your imaginations.

"What will you do now?
The towns that were destroyed will need to be rebuilt. The hobgoblins are no longer an army, but word has reached me that the dragonspawn sniper is assembling the survivors into... more of a patient guerilla force.

Still, there are other options."

Sellyria Starsinger, Killiar Arrowswift, and Zelligar the Mystic enter the room.

"Greetings," says Sellyria Starsinger. "For your great service to our people, and the respect you have shown us, I name all of you members of the Tiri Kitor. You shall always have a home at Starsong Hill."

Killiar Arrowswift looks at Tal'ariel as his leader says this words, his hopes evident in his eyes.

"You have also helped us foster stronger bonds with the people of Brindol," says the elderly elf matriarch, "which I believe will be a lasting friendship in the years to come. Our people can only benefit from this."

The halfling wizard speaks up.
"My friends," says Zelligar, "I have a task of my own. If you aren't ready to settle down."
He sighs.
"Halflings are well regarded in the Elsir Vale. That isn't the case everywhere. Like in..." he looks to Bran, "...in Cheliax.
Many of my people live in slavery there.
I've been in contact with a cousin of mine who is involved with the Bellflower Network. Liberating slaves.
I think that is where I shall go next. And my cousin, she's heard tell that while overthrowing House Thrune entirely might be a fantasy, there is the chance to liberate some cities from the grip of the Asmodeans.
So I will go to Cheliax to fight for liberty as best as I can. Whether it is freeing a few slaves, or freeing a city. We'd need some stealth, some power, and a lot of courage. Lady Cerila Nesten says that Talar will learn Common Rule faster if she leaves, so is coming with me."

Zelligar turns to his old companions and to Daniel. "Would you three join me as well?"

Trellara looks to Bran.
Killiar Arrowswift looks to Ta'ariel.
Both will likely follow you wherever you choose to go...

And at this point, the heroes either settle down, go to Cheliax with Zelligar to follow the Hell's Rebels storyline, or just ride off into the sunset.