The Forgotten God (Table 2) (Inactive)

Game Master Rednal

No, class levels cannot be determined through knowledge skills - though general observation of their NPCs' behavior can often explain a lot.

Your first two series of blows fail to find a way through the gladiator's tough guard, and her countering blows are quite reliable in how often they arrive, though blood is continuing to seep from her wound.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (10) + 4 = 14

The first blow of your next set is equally wide... but the gladiator's shield goes just a little too wide and your dagger slams in for a stunningly accurate stab. It's not enough to drop the gladiator, but she's clearly wounded now, and could likely only withstand another one or two hits.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8

She seemed to have been staggered quite badly by the blow, judging by how inaccurate her counter-thrusts were...

Sevia settled into a pace of attacks, but her wounds seemed to have gotten to her as well, as her blows were deflected quite easily. Though she was certain the crowd wouldn't mind as both woman kept swinging at each other.

Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 9 - 2 = 10
Attack: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (4) + 10 - 2 = 12

Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (1) + 9 - 2 = 8
Attack: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (4) + 10 - 2 = 12

Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (12) + 9 - 2 = 19
Attack: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (9) + 10 - 2 = 17

Then I again roll a ton of crap, luckily you are too. Guess I'm getting full mileage out of that bleed damage, which should add up to 22 damage by this round

Until finally she rallied herself with one final round of attacks to hopefully end things.

Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 9 - 2 = 22 Damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8
Attack: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (16) + 10 - 2 = 24 Damage: 1d4 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12

In a completely unbiased system, the average roll is 10.5. XD However, I think the difficulty rolling above the average in my posts is quite telling about how fair this site's randomizer actually is...

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (10) + 9 = 19
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9

Your very last strike managed to connect with the other gladiator and drop her to the ground, bleeding and unconscious. Of course, there is that important little rule that killing one's opponent is very bad here, and you didn't actually pull any of your attacks to ensure that nonlethal damage was done. On the bright side, some quick stabilization on your part ought to ensure they survive long enough to be treated properly... though there is that Bleeding effect going on, too...

Is the tournament offering free healing?

Sevia sighed as the woman finally dropped, as it seemed obvious both had been exhausted by the end of their fight. Sevia of course felt a little worried given how tough that fight had been.

Sheathing her swords, she crouched down beside the fallen warrior and staunched the flow of blood long enough to wave over some assistance.

Take 10 on heal for 17 to stabilize

After ensuring the gladiator was off the arena, and inquiring about any offered healing, Sevia will find somewhere quiet to rest up.

Depending on how much healing, if any, is offered to the winning contestants, Sevia will spend some of her spell slots to get her health back up to full

Free healing is available for the losers of each round - courtesy of some generous clerics visiting from a nearby temple, who seem to think this is a great time to advertise their faith - but the winners are expected to deal with things on their own. Many seem to have at least brought along potions of some kind, and it's probably not entirely balanced... but having a fight with less than full resources seems to be yet another way of making the tournament more, quote and unquote, "exciting".

As you take a few moments to cast your spells and recover, a tall half-orc comes out of the crowd. His clothes indicate him as a watcher, perhaps a merchant of some kind, rather than any contestant. "Not a bad match." he grunted. "You looking for work?"

You've earned 500 XP for winning the first match.

Sevia expends 3 uses of Infernal Healing to get back up to 56hp. 3/7 spells per day

Sevia certainly wasn't going to complain about not receiving anything free, and every other contestant would have to deal with the same problem. In fact, she expected she'd be more ahead than most in that regard seeing as how she could devote most of her magic to healing and let her swords do the talking.

Sevia watched the half orc approach with a raised eyebrow. "Not in particular, no. But if you have an offer, I'll hear it." Sevia said somewhat warily, she was in no mood to be proffered by a slaver.

"I don't think you have what it takes to win this." the Half-Orc said bluntly. "That's what my boy's here to try and do... but you're not so bad with a blade, and I've already won in the betting. Help me get my caravan back safely and I'll see to it that you're paid well for your time. Do a good job and I might have some more work for you."

So...what kind of XP are my opponents worth?

Sevia chuckled at the man's blunt assessment. "Well, I'll admit it's quite a handicap fighting under these rules." Sevia shrugged with indifference. "I'm not here for crowds or gold though, I'm interested in the Belt. If I have to win this farce to get it, then that's my aim." Sevia answered back, putting on a little bravado. Anyone who called this anything more than a show was kidding themselves, it was all geared to who could bash in the other's head faster - be it with magic or might. True fights didn't have rules. And really, if people underestimated her for that shoddy performance earlier, she wasn't so upset.

*Points up* Though I might drop future opponents a bit - don't want you to level TOO quickly, after all.

The half-orc just grinned. "Some would say that being able to win under any rules is the sign of real strength. After all, most people aren't obliging enough to set things up the way you want them to. Come find me if you change your mind." With that, he heads off, probably going back to whatever rooms he and his companions have rented.

There's still a bit of time until the next match - you can explore the area and talk to others or just wait for the next round to begin.

Aww, but I want 2nd level spells noooow. Btw what is the light level of the arena? Normal or Bright?

Sevia merely shook her head, that gladiator wouldn't have stood a chance against her in a real fight. She wouldn't have even seen her attacks coming, much less have wounded her to such a degree.

Still, that Orc seemed to have quite a lot of confidence in her son - she figured she should probably be on the look out for him.

Getting up, Sevia decided to head around and check out the surviving competition before her next match, now that half of all the contestants had been eliminated.

Sevia will be careful not to draw attention to herself and take 10 on stealth for 25.

Eventually heading out for her next fight when called.

Bright. Open roof, sun overhead, etc.

Most of the rabble seems to have been eliminated, but a few luckier members managed to make it past this stage. There weren't too many surprises in these rounds, though, not with the number of people participating... and your next opponent enters the arena moments after you do. However, he seems like the type to fight at a closer range - and much like your last foe, he seems to be relying on armor instead of enchantments to protect himself, as well as a sturdy steel shield. In his other hand is a longsword that faintly glows, even in the bright light of the arena... and while the previous foe seemed like a true arena gladiator, this man's bearing is clearly that of a more professional soldier.

After giving you your time to cast spells, the referee swings their flag, and the second round begins!

Initiative (Opponent): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 1 = 16
Initiative (You): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Somewhat surprisingly, though, the warrior is the first to move, darting forward and whipping his longsword towards your arm.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (3) + 12 = 15

It doesn't come anywhere near striking you, though.

What kind of armor is this guy wearing?

Sevia watches the man enter. Another heavily armored one, she didn't like those. Hard to exploit their weak points. As he walks to her, she again silently casts Detect Evil on him, casting mage armor after that.

Sevia raised her eyebrows as the man charged in at her, she'd been momentarily distracted by the soldier's armor and was a split second later on the draw. Luckily his swing was very poor indeed.

She dropped her daggers and tried to feint for her swords, trying to defensively draw backwards.

Bluff to feint. Acrobatics to move 30ft away without provoking. If this guy pops up as evil, Sevia uses a swift to smite (+5 Atk +4 AC +1 damage)

Bluff: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14 That's going to fail
Acrobatics: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (10) + 13 = 23 vs CMD Sevia will use a surge if this doesn't hit his CMD

Next round Sevia tries to bluff again

Sword and dagger in hand, Sevia swung her sword high, faking an attack from above, while her dagger came in from below.

Bluff: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22

Dagger attack first, then sword attacks. burn a ki point for an extra attack

Sevia slipped the dagger down and tried to slice across the back of his knee where a gap in the armor existed.

Attack: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (13) + 10 - 2 = 21 vs FF Damage: 1d4 + 2d6 + 8 ⇒ (1) + (4, 1) + 8 = 14 +2Bleed Sevia will use a surge if this doesn't get his FF
Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 9 - 2 = 22 vs AC Damage: 1d6 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14
Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 9 - 2 = 25 vs AC Damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 9 - 2 = 25 vs AC Damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10

Swift for mythic power to use Shocking Grasp, vs touch AC (unless he goes down before then)

Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 9 - 2 = 22 vs AC Damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9
Attack: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (19) + 10 - 2 = 27 vs AC Damage: 1d4 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (19) + 10 - 2 = 27 vs AC Damage: 1d4 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10
Attack: 1d20 + 8 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 8 + 3 = 23 vs TC Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (2, 2, 1, 4, 3) = 12

Half-plate.

There's no indication of evil in the man's aura. The bluff indeed fails, but your acrobatics is much easier. However, rather than following you, the warrior merely raises his shield to take a defensive position - requiring you to move back across the battlefield in order to strike. At the same time, however, his defenses do require effort to overcome...

Mythic Surge: 1d6 ⇒ 5

...and you're able to do so successfully for that strike, piercing through and dealing at least some damage. The other blows are repelled by his shield, and the warrior lashes out with a pair of powerful strikes.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (10) + 12 = 22
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27 for Damage: 1d8 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18

Your second series of blows is considerably more accurate than the first, and blow after blow rains down upon the man. It's quite an impressive display of skill, really - and you can hear the adulation of the crowd at your impressive showing.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13

Neither of his next two strikes lands, though one of them definitely comes close - without your Mage Armor, it would have been a strike.

HP:46 3/6 Ki 2/7 spells 3/5 mythic

Despite the number of blows she'd landed, she felt like some of them had gotten just a bit lucky. Though she imagined that bleeding wound was still going to hurt him a lot in the long run. She'd like to put some distance and start trying to shoot him into submission personally.

Again making another feint, she tried to catch him off guard for another attack before backing off.

Feint to bluff, if it works Sevia 5fts back and sheaths her sword, then attacks with her dagger next turn and acrobatics away. If it doesn't work, Sevia acrobatics away on the first turn instead.

Bluff: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17

Attack: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (13) + 10 = 23 vs FF Damage: 1d4 + 2d6 + 8 ⇒ (2) + (3, 2) + 8 = 15
Acrobatics: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (8) + 13 = 21

The feinting attempt doesn't quite seem to work this time around - and as you move five feet backwards, the warrior moves with you, swinging his blade in an attack of opportunity as you put your own weapon away.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (13) + 12 = 25

The edge of the weapon just barely brushes past your head, coming dangerously close to having cut you. Your acrobatic skill, on the other hand, is enough to get you back from the warrior... and he's clearly feeling the bleeding, but resolutely raises his guard once again instead of bolting after you and leaving himself open.

Sevia's eyes widened as the warrior's blade nearly nicked her. Luckily though he seemed to think standing still was going to be an award winning tactic. Taking the time to put even more distance between herself and him, crossing a huge amount of space with ease; Sevia drew her bow before turning around and loosing an arrow his way.

Sevia backs up another 60ft while drawing her bow, then shoots him. She should be 90ft away at this point.

Attack: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11

Sevia attacks again. Depending on how close he moves, she'll retreat up to 60ft to keep distance.

Attack: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (20) + 9 = 29 vs AC Damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20 vs AC Damage: 2d8 + 2 ⇒ (2, 4) + 2 = 8 Surge if this confirm misses

The first arrow goes wide - and seeing it launched, the warrior keeps his shield up as he darts forward... only to take one hit right in the shoulder as you make a truly magnificent shot.

Surge: 1d6 ⇒ 2

Your second shot goes wide despite your effectiveness against fate... and the man abruptly stops moving forward, then waves to the referee. He knows a lost match when he sees it, and even as he waves, you can see his wounds begin to heal of their own accord - a clear sign that he's no longer in the match. Some warriors do seem like they'd rather not fight until unconsciousness... though he does give you a strange look as he walks away from the arena.

200 XP

Your second match for the day is over, and you can investigate the area further or rest and prepare for the second day of bouts.

Well, not exactly a spectacular end, but she'd take a win regardless. At least that advanced her to the next day. She ignored the look from the soldier - he was probably just upset that he'd lost so easily.

After spending her remaining spells on healing herself, Sevia will spend some time watching the rest of the afternoon matches and gauge some of the victors. And as the day comes to a close, will head off back to get a her night's rest in order to wake up early to craft, intent on getting her sword finished by the day after tomorrow in time for her fight.

The matches almost seem to blur together - but you do have the opportunity to see some of the contestants you heard about before, including the Hell Knight (a solid bulwark) and the Swordlord (who calmly disarmed her opponent and forced a rapid surrender). Neither of them seems like an easy opponent to take down - not that your own contestants were pushovers, either.

You're only able to get about four hours of crafting in come morning - the matches demand your presence, after all, but you should be able to continue working on it later this evening. As you enter the arena, your next opponent is revealed - and it's an elf dressed in robes instead of armor, with a long staff in one of his hands. This round may not be like the other battles you've had thus far...

Initiative (Opponent): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28
Initiative (You): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20

And as the battle begins, your opponent abruptly shoots into the air, ascending to fly above the arena instead of remaining on the ground. A moment later, his fingertips crackle, and a bolt of lightning shoots out of his fingertips and directly towards you, hot enough to melt metal and burst through lesser objects.

Electrical Damage: 6d6 ⇒ (2, 6, 5, 1, 1, 6) = 21
Reflex Halves (Dc 19): 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (11) + 14 = 25

Sevia felt concerned about potentially fighting that Swordlord, of all the opponents she could face - she imagined he'd be the toughest if he could disarm her so easily. Ranged combat would obviously be a safer course in that regard.

Seeing the elf dressed in robes enter the battle, Sevia rethought casting Mage Armor, instead casting Shield on herself at the start of the battle - as well as Detect Evil once more.

At the call for the battle, Sevia was caught off guard as the elf shot into the air. Just long enough for him to send a bolt of lighting at her. Luckily for her, she was pretty quick on her feet, and managed to sidestep just in time to avoid the worst of the blast. Her Fetchling constitution also helped mitigate some of the electricity as well.

-5hp. 54hp total.

Reaching into her belt, she produced a Tanglefoot bag as she moved as close to the wizard as possible – under him if she could manage it, before chucking her alchemical weapon at him.

Attack: 1d20 + 8 - 4 ⇒ (10) + 8 - 4 = 14 vs TC Entagled plus DC 15 Reflex save to avoid falling. I will use a Surge if 14 doesn't make Touch

The Swordlord is female.

Surge: 1d6 ⇒ 5 Duration in Rounds: 2d4 ⇒ (1, 4) = 5

It takes just a bit of divine power to send the bag on the correct course to connect with the flying elf - but despite becoming entangled, they seem in no danger of falling from the sky. The sticky substance of the bag is quite helpful against creatures with wings, but somewhat less effective at stopping purely magical flight... and the elf rises to about forty feet in the air, before holding his hand out again and sending a scorching ray of flames down through the air and directly towards you.

Attack Roll (Touch): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (11) + 3 = 14

Unfortunately for him, the beam does go wide - perhaps because of the way he's struggling with the sticky goop.

Glad that her throw hit true, Sevia backed up, dodging the wizard's flaming ray as she retreated while she drew her bow. It looked like this was going to be settled at range, and she knew most of hit spells would be more limited in range compared to her bow.

Move 60ft away while drawing bow, then attack

Attack: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11 vs AC Damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4

Sevia will move away at her speed and attack each round - she won't go more than 100ft away from the wizard though

Attack: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20 vs AC Damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4
Attack: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (12) + 9 = 21 vs AC Damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7
Attack: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27 vs AC Damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 1 = 8
Attack: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24 vs AC Damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 1 = 6

The first arrow fell well away from the sorcerer, who used his magical flight - quite swift, as it happened - to stay about forty feet away. Another ray of scorching heat shot out of his fingertips...

Attack Roll (Touch): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20 for Fire Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (5, 5, 6, 4) = 20
Concentration: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29

...and unlike his previous spell, this one shot forward with vicious accuracy. Your countering arrow struck through the goop enveloping his body, however, drawing first blood from the elf. Not quite dissuaded, he sent out another bolt of heat...

Attack Roll (Touch): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (13) + 3 = 16

...but it failed to do any real damage, shooting wide instead and leaving him vulnerable to your next arrow, which sunk in with a satisfying thunk.

Attack Roll (Touch): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21 for Fire Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (5, 5, 5, 4) = 19
Concentration: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29

His counter was another heavy scorcher, though he clearly couldn't have too many of those left, and your arrow was just as accurate as his spell, sinking deep into his shoulder. Unfortunately, the goop simply cracked and fell off a moment later, too hardened by the air to remain effective... and the elven wizard simply shouted something as he focused his energies once again, then tossed a glob of acid through the air.

Attack Roll (Touch): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (9) + 7 = 16

The last arrow of your sequence proved as accurate as the others, and the elf grimaced as he flung out another burst of acid.

Attack Roll (Touch): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27 for Acid Damage: 1d3 ⇒ 1
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14 for Acid Damage: 1d3 ⇒ 1

One thing magic-users often faced was a limit in spells per day... and it seemed he was trying to conserve energy for the day's second match.

-40. 14hp

The worst of his attacks had hurt her quite badly, as he'd gotten in a good two hits with those searing scorching rays. Things weren't exactly looking good for her, if she got hit by one of those again - she was done for. Luckily she recognized that last attack as a mere cantrip - which suggested he was either out of or low on spells.

Hopefully that meant she wouldn't have to deal with anything worse as she dropped her bow, slipped her starknives into her hands and tried to down him there. Her hands flicked forward sending the deadly things into the air, a tricky shot but her aim was true.

swift starknives into hand, full attack with one range penalty

Attack: 1d20 + 8 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 8 - 2 - 2 = 22 vs AC Damage: 1d4 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11
Attack: 1d20 + 8 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (16) + 8 - 2 - 2 = 20 vs AC Damage: 1d4 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10

While she hadn't really thrown a huge amount of deadly attacks at him, it was also true that wizards weren't known for their vitality...

The first knife managed to strike the elf and draw quite a bit of blood, splattering it across the arena floor - though the second bounced off of his magical aura and clattered down to the arena floor.

Attack Roll (Touch): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27 for Acid Damage: 1d3 ⇒ 2
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15

It was probably a good thing that he was no longer firing off those rays of heat... the vicious damage those spells could have done scarcely bore thinking on.

12hp

Sevia frowned as one starknife just barely missed, before she drew her magical dagger - taking more careful aim and hoping to finally bring him down.

penalties for two range increments

Attack: 1d20 + 10 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 10 - 2 - 2 = 24 vs AC Damage: 1d4 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10

If the Wizard still isn't down she'll pick up her bow and shoot him

Attack: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22 vs AC Damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5

The dagger stabbed into the elf and he abruptly shot downwards to land on the ground, clearly wounded - but that didn't stop a last-ditch bolt of lightning from his hands, blasting across the field in one more attempt to deal enough damage to drop you.

Elec Damage: 6d6 ⇒ (4, 2, 2, 2, 3, 2) = 15
Reflex 19 Halves: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (11) + 14 = 25

The elf finally fell as the last arrow pierced his side... but with quite a bit of your own blood on the arena floor, you've managed to achieve your third win. Things are only going to get harder, though, because there are still several rounds left...

And from high up in the arena, you can feel a fragment of your soul calling to you.

300 XP.

-2 electric. 10hp.

Sevia nearly slumped down onto the ground as she saw the elf fall flat, her last arrow finally managing to bring him down. That was close - much too close. Gingerly nursing her wounds as she applied some liberal use of Infernal Healing, Sevia collected her fallen daggers and arrows before heading back off the arena grounds.

Just before she reached the door though - she paused...feeling the familiar tug on her soul.

It was here.

She'd expected it to be, but until now she hadn't been completely confident the Belt of Grace wasn't just some powerful magic item. Now she was.

Smiling as she led herself back inside, Sevia found somewhere where she could watch the arena as she sharpened her blades again on her whetstone - looking out for the narrowing contestants and keeping an eye on them.

Cast 5 Infernal Healing to get back full HP. 2/7 spells remaining.

Mere minutes after the match, someone approached you - looking much wealthier than the half-orc who came before. "Bit of a close call, that one... but you've done much better than I expected." he said cheerfully. "Lost my money on your first two games, actually, but this one more than made up for them. You seem to have quite a way with those daggers of yours."

What are the rules on casting before entering the arena?

Sevia looked over to the half-orc. "Glad to see your renewed confidence." she said sarcastically. She hadn't realized he'd actually thought so low of her that she was being bet against. Apparently he'd thought better after she forced that fighter to surrender.

You're dealing with someone else.

The man merely raised an eyebrow. "Well, I do like to think that I have an eye for quality... and I'll be confident in anyone who proves they deserve it." he said mildly. "I just dropped by to give you a warning about your next match."

Oh

Interest piqued, Sevia stood up, obviously giving him her full attention now. "Hmm, you did? Well I'm all ears." Sevia said somewhat warily. If this were a threat she wanted to know what kind, if this were genuine, then she wanted to know what the cache for his reasoning was. Or it could be a lie.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22

This time, your instincts seem like they're giving you a better sense of things than before - the man isn't your friend, precisely, but he doesn't seem to be an enemy, either. More than anything else, he seems interested in his own benefit - but the fact that he's come here to give you at least a little advice means he's clearly hoping you'll succeed.

"Don't underestimate that Swordlord, Fes." he said, lowering his voice. "You're fighting her in the next round, and she's one of the favorites to win this entire competition. Your victories so far have been close ones, so most people don't believe in you yet - but if you win this match, everyone here will start thinking of you as a serious contender." he paused for a moment. "Either way, though, I like the flexibility and tenaciousness you've shown. If you'd like some work after the tournament, whether you win or lose, come find me at the Boar and Wolf."

This is the second offer in as many days - gladiators who perform well seem to be in high demand, and this event appears to be as much of a hiring fair as it is a combat competition. With that, the man heads off, leaving you alone with your thoughts.

"Thanks for the advice. I've seen her in action, so I believe you when you say she's good." Sevia said appreciatively, her earlier unfriendly demeanor vanishing. She wasn't sure how he knew that, but she was certainly going to take that warning into consideration. Fes was not going to be a slouch, if she was anything like Aldori himself, she was a master with the blade.

She contemplated simply strafing the woman with arrows as she'd done the warrior. But eventually she'd get caught up to, and she really didn't have the strength to make those arrows hit hard.

Maybe some extra magical help?

Sevia decided to head down to the shopping area to purchase a Scroll. In particular one which she knew would hone her already deadly blades.

Buy:
Scroll of Cat's Grace 150gp
4x daggers 4gp

1683
-154gp
1529 total

Unfortunately she imagined she'd probably missed Fes' fight this morning, so Sevia decided to try and track her down on her own. See if there was anything she could figure out from a distance.

When Sevia gets to the fight, she'll cast Shield before getting into position, and draw her scroll. Just before she starts - she casts Cat's Grace, and uses wild arcana to cast Reduce Person while drawing her starknives.

It doesn't take too long to track down the location of your next opponent - as with some of the other favorites, there's a sizable crowd around her area, and you're able to get a much closer look than you had before. She seems to be human, but her shock-white hair speaks of something that's more than mundane in her blood, and her outfit that seems to be better at looking nice than protecting her in the heat of combat. On the other hand, the Aldori school of swordsmanship is known for looking impressive while simultaneously being very good at what it does - many of its members turn combat into a performance, so her clothing isn't much of a surprise.

A few other things are clear, even with your view from a distance. First, none of the crowd is approaching past a line of carpets that surround her waiting area... and secondly, there's a slave collar wrapped around her neck. For the most part, she seems to be ignoring the crowd - she's busy taking care of her dueling sword and ensuring it's ready for the match.

There's only one other person standing near her - and he appears to be a young nobleman of some sort, who waves as he sees you looking and beckons you over.

Sevia sized up her next opponent, it had been harder to see from the outskirts of the arena - but up close she was quite something to look at. 'Sheyln would approve' she snorted mentally, though she wasn't in a position to rebuke her given her own lack of armor. Unlike Fes though, she doubted she looked nearly as elegant. Looking at her hair though...was she half human?

Knowledge Nature?

That was when she noticed the collar and the apparent isolation around her and frowned. That implication did not sit well with her.

Sevia clicked her tongue as the nobleman nearby her suddenly waved her over. She'd not planned on actually revealing herself or anything, and debated for a split second whether to simply walk away...but now that she actually saw Fes, she felt like she couldn't just wipe her hands of this. After gesturing to herself as if to ask 'Me?' and receiving an affirmative, Sevia approaches the nobleman. As she does - casts Detect Evil against the two curiously. "Yes?" Sevia said as she stopped in front of him.

Detect Evil is a SLA for me so it doesn't have any casting components to give it away fyi

As far as you can tell, she's fully human.

There's no sign of evil on either of the two - and though the crowd looks interested, a firm glance from the nobleman is enough to get them to back up slightly. He turns his attention back to you a moment later. "Seven, right?" he asks, smiling in a friendly way.

"Sevia." the slave corrected, sheathing her sword and rising to her feet offering a handshake. Aside from the collar, nothing about her - up to and including her tone - seems particularly servile.

"Right, Sevia." the nobleman said, accepting the correction. "I'm Brent of House Orlavsky, up in Brevoy." If he'd been serious, he probably would have come across as expecting others to be impressed - but his cheerful nature suggests that he's just introducing himself and doesn't really care about the title itself (or how others react to it). "So, uh, what brings you to this competition? I mean, the Belt looks like it'll be totally useless for you... Er, unless you'd rather not tell us, anyway. I do like getting to know Fes' opponents, but please don't feel like I'm pressuring you to share anything you'd rather not. After all, tournaments like this are supposed to be fun, right?"

Sevia will give the woman the courtesy of removing her mask to look her in the eyes when she shakes her hand. Which was probably the first time she'd publicly shown her face. At least she was able to get her name right. Turning back to...Brent, she struggled to not roll her eyes. Did this look like a game to him? Well, she supposed it technically was, given that any real fight wasn't garnered by rules.

"I am here for the belt, yes. Though I wonder why you'd think it would be useless to me." Sevia said rather bluntly, wondering if he knew something she didn't.

"Well, you haven't been wearing armor, right?" Brent asked, looking faintly perplexed. "Supposedly, great heroes who wear the belt can don any kind of armor without it slowing them down a bit. At least, that's what all the legends say. Wouldn't be much help to us, I'm afraid, but I'd love to be able to trade it for something else."

Fes simply glanced towards the sky, then shrugged slightly. "Time to get ready. I won't go easy on you." she said calmly, double-checking to ensure that the blade was fixed properly to her side. With that, she started walking off, heading towards one of the competitor's entrances. Brent chuckled slightly as he watched her leave.

"She'd probably get mad at me if I wished you luck, especially since she's saved my life a few times already, but... I am looking forward to the match. See you afterwards?" With that, he began heading off as well.

"I don't wear armor because it's against the rules to use magical enhancements and armor. Stupid rule if you ask me. Real battlefields don't have rules." Sevia explained, venting her frustration slightly at Brent. Though, she almost found it appalling that he was looking for the belt just to trade it off. Better in her hands than his...although, if she did actually lose here - he might win and she'd be able to get it off him in exchange for something else.

Sevia nodded in the affirmative to his question as she replaced her mask, whether she won or lost, she felt like establishing a rapport with him might be useful. And she was still curious about that aloof swordswoman.

Heading off to her own competitor's entrance, she readied her purchased scroll and staff. Heading out onto the dusty arena when her name was called, Sevia cast her Shield spell and stowed the staff, taking her position opposite Fes.

"I'll admit, this is the only fight I've actually been looking forward to." She told her opponent.

Just before the referee signaled to start, Sevia raised her scroll and cast the spell imprinted on it, at the same time also managing to cast an impossibly fast Reduce Person spell at the same time - thanks to her mythic power. As her figure shrunk to half her size, Sevia drew her starknives, just in time for the start of the match.

Sevia has Shield, Cat's Grace, and Reduce Person up. Changes to stats have been noted in my stats bar. Thrown weapons don't have reduced damage die btw.

Initiative: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (14) + 11 = 25

I think I beat her on initiative, but just in case, I 5ft step back on my turn when I full attack

Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 12 - 2 - 2 = 11 vs FF
Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 12 - 2 - 2 = 28 vs FF Damage: 1d4 + 2d6 + 11 ⇒ (4) + (2, 3) + 11 = 20 +2Bleed
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 12 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 12 - 2 - 2 = 28 Damage: 2d4 + 22 ⇒ (3, 4) + 22 = 29

If I don't go first, subtract both d6s and 3 damage

The swordswoman downed two potions as you cast your own spells, and the referee signaled the start of the match.

Initiative (Fes): 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (20) + 11 = 31

The moment the match began, the swordswoman shot forward - even faster off the mark than you, and almost a blur as she crossed the distance between you and swung her sword.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (19) + 16 = 35 for Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (2) + 16 = 18 No crit.

Though it wasn't a critical blow, it was still a powerful strike - and your two starknives shot through the air a moment later. The first strike didn't come close to the whirling swordswoman - but as the second came in, Fes' free hand came around and knocked it to the side a moment before it could strike. Almost expressionless despite the heat of battle, the white-haired warrior pushed five feet forward to unleash a rapid series of strikes.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (9) + 16 = 25
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (9) + 16 = 25
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24

If your extra spells hadn't been in place, it was likely the combination would have dealt some serious damage - but a combination of your small size, your cat-like grace, and a magical shield were enough to keep the swordswoman at bay... for now, at least. As the attacks missed, her eyes narrowed slightly, and a brief surge of energy went through her body.

Seriously? She has Deflect Arrows, and you got a 20 on Initiative, AND she has a +16 to hit?! Talk about stacking the deck against me!

Sevia couldn't even believe what she'd seen as the woman simply batted aside her dagger, which she could've swore should've impaled her. What that did tell her though was that ranged attacks against her would be useless.

She feinted down, looking like she was going to draw more daggers, but actually went for her swords. Her wakizashi and magic dagger coming out. Drawing on some of her mythic power, she knew she needed to even the odds, reaching out to just touch the girl and impart a magical impairment to her agility.

Swift to cast Touch of Gracelessness. No attack roll.

Bluff: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24
Dex Penalty: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8 Fortitude save for half DC 16 and negate falling prone condition. 5 round duration

Next Turn

Attack: 1d20 + 11 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 11 - 2 = 24 vs FF Damage: 1d4 + 2d6 + 11 ⇒ (2) + (4, 2) + 11 = 19 +2Bleed
Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 12 - 2 = 13 vs AC

Burn 1 ki for extra attack

Attack: 1d20 + 11 - 2 ⇒ (6) + 11 - 2 = 15 vs AC
Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 ⇒ (10) + 12 - 2 = 20 vs AC Damage: 1d6 + 10 ⇒ (3) + 10 = 13
Attack: 1d20 + 11 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 11 - 2 = 27 vs AC Damage: 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 11 - 2 ⇒ (7) + 11 - 2 = 16

HP:48 3/5 mythic 5/6 ki

In fairness, I only controlled two of those. Also, "You can automatically touch one friend or use the spell on yourself, but to touch an opponent, you must succeed on an attack roll". I'm... not sure why you were thinking otherwise.

Attack Roll (Touch of Gracelessness): 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17

The feint actually seemed like it was successful - but your touching strike failed to connect, and the counterattack was immediate.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (8) + 16 = 24
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (6) + 16 = 22
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (8) + 11 = 19

Despite everything, however, pure skill on your part appeared to be keeping her blade at bay, and energy continued to flow through her body as she fought, deflecting both of your blades with pinpoint strikes from your own weapon.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (4) + 16 = 20
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (9) + 16 = 25
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (5) + 11 = 16

What is WITH this dice roller? XD; Good news for you, though...

The clashing of blades continued, with your full flurry whipping out at Fes - and striking only the air. If there was any solace to be had here, it was probably the fact that her speed-enhancing spell couldn't last forever... and if it did wear out, she'd be distinctly less powerful than before. The same thought seemed to occur to her as two of her attacks changed slightly...

Disarm (Wakizashi): 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (16) + 13 = 29 Improved Disarm - no AoO.
Disarm (GT Dagger): 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (4) + 13 = 17
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (1) + 11 = 12

...and the Wakizashi flew out of your hand, though she did seem to have overbalanced slightly when switching back to normal blows - a surprisingly poor move coming from an excellent contestant. "Hn, you're better than I thought." the Swordlord said, a respectful undercurrent in her tone.

"As are you." Sevia said, stepping back and away from her sword. She could circle back around later and grab it. For now, she feinted for another dagger - even as the one in her hand went for another strike.

Sevia steps 5ft back and keeps doing so

Bluff: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (10) + 11 = 21 Surge: 1d6 ⇒ 4

Attack: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (9) + 12 = 21 vs FF Damage: 1d3 + 2d6 + 11 ⇒ (1) + (4, 6) + 11 = 22 +2Bleed

The DC for a successful feint is 23. Would you like to use Mythic Surge on this one and try to change your result? Your attack will hit if your feint is successful - including that bleed damage.

Feinting against an opponent like Fes wasn't easy... but it was possible, despite the series of follow strikes.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (16) + 16 = 32 for Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (11) + 16 = 27
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (2) + 11 = 13

Your own strike finally landed home and struck deep into her arm... with a roar from the watching crowd following a moment later. Despite the pain, Fes smiled widely. "First time this whole tournament someone's hit me! I knew this would be an interesting fight!"

Seeming quite happy, she stepped five feet forward and swung her weapon again, aiming for another series of rapid blows... though they did seem a bit slower than before.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (16) + 15 = 31 for Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28

HP:34

"I'm a little disappointed to hear that, guess you haven't fought a mage yet." Sevia said with a smirk, as she carefully cast a cantrip, her sword a few feet away leaping towards her as she reached forward to touch Fes again. The sword jumping into her hand a moment later.

Sevia will do combat casting to cast Mage Hand, in order to retrieve her sword. As a free action she gets a touch attack to deliver the Touch of Gracelessness she hasn't expended yet

Combat Casting: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17 vs DC 15
ToG(Touch): 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (15) + 11 = 26 vs TC Gimme that fort save

Next round, expend 1 ki to attack.

Now though, it was her turn to begin her counter attack.

Attack: 1d20 + 11 - 2 ⇒ (19) + 11 - 2 = 28 vs AC Damage: 1d4 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 11 - 2 ⇒ (9) + 11 - 2 = 18
Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 ⇒ (2) + 12 - 2 = 12 vs AC
Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 12 - 2 = 30 vs AC Damage: 1d3 + 11 ⇒ (1) + 11 = 12
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 12 - 2 ⇒ (10) + 12 - 2 = 20 Damage: 1d3 + 11 ⇒ (2) + 11 = 13

Fortitude: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23

As your spell moves in - finally capable of touching her - Fes does do everything she can to resist it... and her innate resilience does manage to throw off a significant portion of the spell's effect. Without hesitation, she flicked her blade out once again...

Disarm (Dagger): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24
Disarm (Wakizashi): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (5) + 12 = 17

Also, just noticed - you should be taking the weapon's damage when you're disarmed from her Disarming Strike ability. I missed it earlier, and that was my fault, so no retroactive damage. Disarming Strike: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

...and flicked the dagger out of your hand. Unfortunately, that wasn't quite enough to stop you from countering with the wakizashi, which did manage to get a good slice from her... and she returned the favor a moment later.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (17) + 13 = 30 for Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (13) + 14 = 27 Nope.

"I have, but... they didn't last very long." the Swordlord answered as her blade whipped through the air. "Either way, you should consider going professional. I'd like to fight you again someday."

Okay, since apparently I didn't have my dagger, that means my ki attack was with the wakizashi instead of the dagger - and there weren't attack penalties.

Damage: 1d4 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13

and if 21 AC confirms Damage: 1d4 + 9 ⇒ (3) + 9 = 12

Not sure if 20 AC confirms either, because that was what the 1st confirm would've been.

Despite losing her dagger, Sevia was able to keep her sword in hand and fend off Fes' continuing assault - striking back with two of her sword slashes.

"Professional? Ha, no. I don't prefer fair fights. If it weren't for the rules of this tournament you'd not even see me attacking!" Sevia laughed back, trying once again to hit the nimble little girl.

Burn ki point to attack

Attack: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (5) + 11 = 16 vs AC Damage: 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10
Attack: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (5) + 11 = 16 vs AC Damage: 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10

One attack with my wakizaski, if I'm disarmed again then it will be an attack with a dagger instead. Burn a point of mythic power to cast Shocking Grasp

Attack: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (16) + 11 = 27 vs AC Damage: 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15
Shocking Grasp: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (12) + 14 = 26 vs TC Damage(Electrical): 5d6 ⇒ (6, 3, 3, 6, 5) = 23

Current HP: 18 ki 3/6 mythic 1/5

"Well, we have to play nice so everyone else feels better." Fes responded with a smile, deflecting the two wakizashi slashes with quick taps of her blade. Her following thrusts came as actual strikes, not disarm attempts, and impressively fast despite the reduction in energy from before.

Attack Roll: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (18) + 13 = 31 for Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (20) + 14 = 34 for Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7

One of her blows missed - but the other shot in with expert timing to cut into your body. Yet, despite everything, it seemed you finally had a chance. Even she couldn't keep every defense up forever, and after first strike of your wakizashi cut in for an accurate, pinpoint strike, the followup surge of magic struck dead-on and sunk into the swordlord's chest. She toppled over a moment later, and the crowd went absolutely insane with the thunderous applause, even as Fes' owner ran onto the field and poured what looked like an especially potent healing potion into her mouth. She coughed slightly, then blinked and looked around.

"...Impressive." she said quietly, rising up to her feet and sheathing her weapon.

You see? I didn't rig a loss! XD Gotta be at least this nuts to challenge a character who has top-notch accuracy and evasion on top of a crit-heavy damage setup and abnormally high HP.

Also, 1000 XP. Despite being the same CR as the others, she WAS built as a considerably more threatening foe.