Premiach Vanderboren reels back when Kikinnin hits the table.
Lady Aeberrin Vanderboren puts her hand on his husband's chest in a protective move "No need to be aggressive. We all have our own interests. Ours have nothing to do with politics or becoming Lord Mayor, but we have all the interest on the city to remain safe and prosperous, and for that we believe the Lord Mayor must be someone who understands why nobility and trade are important. We will be against any candidate that goes against the rights of nobility or freedom of trade"
Lady Ophellha speaks up after Kythel "I say the Lord Mayor shall be someone respected by both nobles and common people, and I do not see why it cannot be someone among the clergy, as long as their god is someone who cares about the city well being"
Lord Zachary adds looking at Lord Taskerhill "The best candidate shall be someone who does not want the position, and shall be someone who comes from nobility to gather enough legitimacy" and Lord Taskerhill adds in "Lord Mayor shall be chosen among nobility, that is the only legitimacy"
Maavu intervenes "Still, it must be someone who cares about the city prosperity and deposed of any greed that might lead to corruption. It must be someone with novel and effective ideas who finds a way to make the city advance while removing the horrible taxes that are shutting business around and forcing people to abandon the city. We have had enough of that"
Premiach Vanderboren looks with scare at Kikinnin, then back to Marigold "Eehhh.... mmm... if the city owns now Lord Vhalantru's manor... mmm... will the manor be then for the new Lord Mayor? Or can it be bought by whomever wants to buy it? Who decides who can buy the manor?"
Kikinnin harkens to Lady Ophellha's words, while he ignores the second attempt to negotiate real estate from Premiach. He had hoped the Vanderborens would have proven more noble than this, and his disappointment is short-lived.
"If we're meant to offer nominations here, then let's focus our attention on this task." He shoots a withering look at Premiach, before speaking again.
"For their ignorance of the evil lurking within Cauldron, the nobles here are unworthy of the position of Mayor. Revered Jenya is friend to all, and beholden to no one earthly. She has spearheaded several measures which prevented grave damage to Cauldron, and has the wisdom to heed good advice." Kikinnin sets eyes on the woman he considers a mentor in the ways of Abadar.
"If you are willing, I suggest you consider a dual role here. It's a heavy burden, but I'd also suggest forming an advisory council, made of nobles you measure of high integrity. Their motives are driven by possessiveness, of opportunity for themselves. If you're able to herd them into mutual benefit for nobles and common folk alike, you may be able to lead the city out of this dire circumstance. Take the mantle of Mayor, and you'll have my support."
JJ shakes his head.
"Wait, first you say that the new mayor has to be someone who doesn't want it, and then you say they have to be from the nobility. But all the major noble families are represented here, and I somehow suspect that you all want the role of mayor."
He looks around the room. "I don't see an answer here. If you want someone acceptable to the commoners, and the nobles and who doesn't want the role - what about Uncle Alex? Um, that is Sir Alex."
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Jenya is honestly surprised when Kikinnin points towards her. Lady Ophellha Knowlern nods and smiles.
Maavu says "I personally think Lord Zachary Aslaxin is the best candidate for the position, but Jenya does understand the needs the merchants and workshops of Cauldron face. I can accept such candidacy"
The Vanderboren nod accepting this as a good solution.
"I do appreciate your support my loyal warrior" Jenya smiles at Kikinnin "I... I honestly do not want the position though"
Lord Zachary quickly adds "Jenya is a good candidate I think, but she is not noble in line, and she has an important role at the Church we do not want her to miss" the Lord smiles and softly nods at her.
Lord Taskerhill negates with the head "Jenya is not a nobleman and Sir Alek... Sir Alek Tercival caused a war with Redgorge and has been acting weirdly in recent times. He is no longer the champion he was"
Lord Tercival looks to his nephew then down to the table "We shall be honest JJ, Lord Taskerhill is right, I let myself be mislead by that cabal of hags. It would be too dangerous for someone so weakly minded to take the charge of Lord Mayor" you can feel the real pain of the paladin.
Asfelkir Hranleurt of Gorum opens his mouth for the first time in the meeting "Although I won't negate Jenya is morally high among us, I must point out the Lord Mayor must be someone strong. And I have not seen anyone stronger than Lord Ankhin Taskerhill, we have all witnessed his athletic prowess before, like during the last jungle hunt when he alone chased and brought down a dire lion"
Lord Taskerhill smiles thinly and chuckles while Asfelkir retells the story of his lion hunt.
Meanwhile Kristof of Sarenrae seems out of place, the nobles mostly ignore the least powerful cleric, and he nervously sips too much wine while waiting for the evening to end.
"D-does it even have to j-just be one p-person?" Marigold suggests. "Why not a c-council with one representative from each g-group? One from the n-nobility, one from the m-mercantile class, one f-from one of the ch-churches and one from the, uh, c-common man that's p-proved themselves?"
"Th-that way all the resp-sp-sponsibility doesn't r-rest on any one p-person...and there's enough ch-checks to k-keep any one p-person or g-group from getting too b-big for their b-britches. I'd support J-Jenya for one of the p-positions...or K-Kristof Jorgensen if he f-felt the call."
"I hardly think that athletic prowess is really a good reason to make someone mayor" opines JJ.
"And if they are - then what about Kikinnin. He has also the backing of the church, and that of the Machalite. His appointment would also show that Cauldron is a city for all races."
He smiles for a moment. "Actually the more I think about it. Kikinnin would be a strong ruler with good morals and make sure that a fair decision was made on important matters."
Kristof Jorgensen shakes on his sit when he listens his name. He approaches Marigold to address her more privately "The council is probably the best idea, but I do not think this pack of old jars will easily accept such a solution lightly or soon my friend"
"The good dwarf poses a prowess figure, that I will concede you" Asfelkir Hranleurt nods in response to JJ.
At this moment the meeting sort of breaks in a multitude of simultaneous conversations. Lord Zachary takes Jenya by the elbow and starts walking down the main entrance and back while talking to her ear.
Liorial Lathenmire and Asfelkir Hranleurt start to discuss about the need the new Lord Mayor releases the taxes on forging weapons and armor and promulgates favorable laws for smiths.
Lord Ankhin Taskerhill and Aeberrin Vanderboren discuss with calmed tone but heated words about the convenience of they bringing two people of the same family. Lord Premiach Vanderboren insists inquiring about Vhalantru's state and Lord Taskerhill answers were he the Lord Mayor he would make sure to sell the manor to the fastest offer and points Maavu he would use the money to alleviate taxes.
Lady Ophellha Knowlern observes all of them from the distance and Lord Alek Tercival remains down for a bit until Ryan Taskerhill approaches and tells him something.
All in all, it is a good moment to discuss things as a party or address attendants individually.
Kythel approaches the priest of Sarenrae and nods, "Work continues on the new spire, I think you shall appreciate the touch I have added to it".
"I th-think you're r-right," Marigold admits with a sigh. "P-people are st-stuck too much on h-having one l-lone person at the t-top, almost like C-Cauldron's a t-tiny kingdom. B-but if that s-single person's v-values become c-compromised or corrupted it st-starts to r-rot the whole th-thing, s-sometimes from the inside out."
JJ listens to Marigold, and then, oddly offers a different opinion.
"If we are in a hurry to get a new mayor or council because of an impending disaster... Well, look how hard it is to get even these small number of people from the same background to agree."
He thinks a moment longer. "If it does happen, we need decisions to be made fast, and with the interests of all the citizens in mind. I can't see a council with a vast array of personal interests making those kinds of calls. That said, outside of a disaster, I do like the council idea. Lots of different folk giving different perspectives."
"Actually the more I think about it. Kikinnin would be a strong ruler with good morals and make sure that a fair decision was made on important matters."
Kikinnin raises his own eyebrows at JJ, equally surprised as Jenya that his name would be put forward. "You're kind to say so, JJ, but I intend on seeing the Cagewrights ferreted out, and eradicated, and that's a risk no one in a position of authority should be taking. Besides, I have a mind to advise the Malachite one of these days."
The black beard looks to his own Watchers. "We've done what we've come here to do- inform the ignorant of what's been threatening Cauldron. None of them, not one of them spoke on the constant threat of the Cagewrights. They only concerned themselves with their own businesses, and the chance to take office for their own gains. I've spoken my mind, regarding Jenya, and Marigold's idea of a council certainly has merit. This decision shouldn't be made lightly, but I sure hope it resolves soon."
Kikinnin takes another swig of whiskey, and sits back, watching the interactions among the priests and nobles. Too much politics here. Malachite's a might better, when it comes to leadership. A shame we can't teach these folks. Kikinnin thinks on Malachite, and debates.
"Then d-do we just endorse wh-whoever we think will b-be the least disruptive ch-choice?" Marigold asks, trying to push down her own frustrations on the matter. "Everyone I'd v-vote for f-first doesn't want the j-job and I g-guess trying to f-form a proper council would t-take a while. If it h-has to go to s-someone in the nobility then wh-who?"
"Right, lets try elimination." suggests JJ.
"Each noble family puts forward one name. Then we have at least specifics to work with. The name doesn't have to be the family eldest either, as they may have other responsibilities that well, conflict with their role as mayor - or at the very least take away time from that role."
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Eidi looks through the window from one of the corners of the Town Hall and produces his cookie pot. The elder slowly eats one while observing the colloquium happening in front.
The half-elf stops at one of the cookies, finding it too hard to bite, he frowns, removes something from the cookie throwing it behind one of the chairs, then smiles wide and bites it hard, looking at the group at far struggling to find a candidate to powerfully endorse with whom to convince most of the attendees.
Kikinnin approaches Lady Ophellha, seizing the moment to find out more about the unknown woman, and what they may try to accomplish herding cats.
"A pleasure to meet you, Lady Knowlern. You friends with Jenya? What have you gathered, from your observations?" Kikinnin allows himself to be blunt about what information he gathered while delivering invitations to the meeting.
"I still think Jenya is the true choice here. Do you think she might listen to you, or my fellow Watchers, should they try and encourage her with their own voices?"
"She's more level-headed than anyone else here, is my measure. She knows Cauldron is still in danger, for all we've shared with her, and that means not being caught asleep when the next danger arises."
Lady Ophellha Knowlern smiles at Kikinnin as he approaches "I share your appreciation for Jenya. I too think she is the best candidate and a natural leader. Still, I think she does not have the confidence and probably does not picture herself in the shoes of Lady Mayor and I understand and respect that"
"Any added voice to encourage her will help by sure. In the end she wants the best for the city, and if she sees she is the best for the role, she will endure the responsibility" she stares at Lord Taskerhill and Lord Aslaxin "Still, she respects those two voices too much. We should convince them to at least not firmly oppose a not noble candidate, or find a way to circumvent that, or Jenya will not feel at ease accepting the position"
"If I had to go with one of the nobles, I would prefer that to be Lady Vanderboren, or Lord Aslaxin at the worse. I trust them." she negates with the head "I will never give my support to Lord Taskerhill. Even if he could be good to the city, he is too aggressive in his forms, and I dislike that"
Kikinnin bows, of all things, to Lady Ophella. He's a little surprised at the gesture himself, but it feels right to acknowledge the wisdom imparted by observer. "I'll inform my companions. I might not be the best candidate to approach Aslaxin." The black beard enjoys a moment to reflect that there are allies in the room, as much as adversaries, and he heartens a little before returning to his friends.
"JJ, miss Marigold, I think we might have a way forward. If we can convince Taskerhill and Aslaxin to ease their gruff position on nobles being the only ones to consider for the position, we might be able to encourage Revered Jenya to take up the post, if only for now. I will be glad to speak to Taskerhill, first Ryan, then Ankhin. What do you think? Feels like Maxim has his own position to defend, and Kythel is being very diplomatic for his representation of the Church of Pharasma."
The black beard considers the man Ankhin. He agrees with Lady Ophella's position on both men- he doesn't want to see another Vhalantru rise under the influence of the power the position of Mayor brings.
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JJ smiles at Kikinnin. "Oh, I have a perfect argument for suggesting noble blood is not required. Me! "
He casually approaches Lord Asaxin.
"Good day!" he starts, not exactly sure how to approach the point he wants to make.
"It seems to me that we have a small problem. There is no unity among the noble families about a selection for mayor." he notes.
"You are unwilling to accept my uncle as mayor. And while I disagree, I do understand your reasoning. The last thing we need to to reignite any tensions with the other cities in the region." he adds seriously.
"This leaves us with a difficult position. Either we accept a non-noble as mayor. And of all the candidates it looks like really only Jenya is a viable option. Or we pick a noble. Given the tensions between your families, there won't be any agreement on one of you. So that leaves only one other person of noble blood in the room."
He casually points to himself as he waits for the inevitable explosion. And lets hope they see Jenya as a much more viable candidate.
JJ approaches Lord Aslaxin and tries his best at convincing the noble. The man looks a bit disconcerted at first when JJ's points to himself, but he does answer JJ in a frank tone "You are right we need to find solution to this. Still, I think Jenya is too important for the church and the Bank of Abadar. But seeing how every noble really wants the post for himself, there might be no other option forward. Are you even qualified for the position young man?"
You feel Aslaxin is rather nervous, like if he was desperate on seeing how things are going in a direction he does not want.
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"Well, the position doesn't have to be permanent. And it shouldn't be. In fact, I think the mayor should have an advisory council, representatives from the nobles, merchants and churches, and possibly other organizations too." explains JJ.
"That way, whether it is the Revered Jenya, one of you, or even someone like me, there is a group of opinions able to be heard. That would reduce the burden on their time."
He does cough a little. "I'm not seriously claiming to be a good candidate. I mean, I have noble blood, a bit of an understanding of the region, and the sound of the problems facing it. But I'm hardly an expert in taxes, or foreign negotiation. I think there are far better candidates than myself. Then again, that would be the advantage of having a town council backing the mayor. Whoever that mayor is. Jenya is not an expert on taxes either, and doesn't need to be."
"Hmm...th-that might work," Marigold agrees when Kikinnin pulls her and JJ aside for a moment. "S-since JJ's already after L-Lord Aslaxin and you're okay with t-talking to the Taskerhills, at least to st-start, um...m-maybe I can t-try talking to Jenya herself."
With that, the little halfling slips away and moves to try and catch Jenya during a few moment between conversations.
"Um...s-sorry about Kikinnin sp-springing that on you out of the b-blue," Marigold opens, her smile (genuinely) apologetic. "It w-wasn't something we'd talked about p-prior to the meeting or anything, I p-promise. B-but also...you kn-know Kikinnin d-doesn't speak l-lightly. If he th-thinks you would b-be the best choice for M-Mayor, he means it. And it's n-not a job you'd have to sh-shoulder alone or m-maybe even not for l-long, if we can g-get a p-proper council going when t-time isn't against us."
"Or...if we r-really can't convince y-you, who do you think would b-be the best for the j-job? I ask because I t-trust your judgement."
Kikinnin moves across the room to address Ankhin Taskerhill. He adjusts his belt to rid himself of a pinch, and gives himself a moment to remember what he can about the wealthy man.
"Lord Ankhin, a moment? Can we be direct with one another? I respect your business savvy, and I respect your kin Ryan. I think you'd make a worthy advisor, for all your experience. I don't doubt you would seek the position of Lord Mayor itself, but I see you more as a leader during peace time, and we're under attack, even now. There is prophecy promising great destruction, great risk to all who walk the streets of Cauldron. Are you willing to risk your own life, should things go black? Leading is not just telling others to take risks, it's shouldering them so others won't have to. I don't know you very well, but I know Revered Jenya has herself broad shoulders, and it's why I declared my support for her. I'd ask you to do the same."
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"While I see the need to control the work of the Lord Mayor, I still do not see the need of a Council. I will not oppose Jenya though, as it seems the only other option you are considering is Lord Taskerhill" Lord Aslaxin breathes deeply, closing his eyes after finishing his talk with JJ.
Jenya smiles at Marigold "No problem, I will have to talk with him afterwards. I do understand he is truthful and caring, same as you are my friend" you feel the woman is starting to doubt, as most people is telling her she is a good candidate, but still you feel she does not feel convinced herself.
Taskerhill listens attentively to Kikinnin, his face changes from sufficiency to a progressive state of realization "Maybe you are right. Perhaps it is a better idea someone with powerful defenses around to be the Lord Mayor at this time of need."
Coming up after this new round of conversations you put forward your ideas, but Jenya says "I am not sure... I was really hoping one of the nobles would take the job" she does look to Lord Aslaxin.
Noticing the gesture Lord Taskerhill voices up "Maybe this idea of the Council is not that terrible after all if it would ease you up Jenya. If you still think someone else should have the job... why not to look at the nobles at your church. What about your second in command?"
All the eyes suddenly turn to Ryan Taskerhill who looks back surprised "M-me?"
Kikinnin raises an eyebrow when the elder Taskerhill offers the younger Taskerhill's name for consideration. For Ryan's association with the Watchers, the black beard doesn't immediately offer his voice. He wants to hear what the other nobles have to say about it, first.
The Cleric stays silent as Ryan's name is introduced. He has the least amount of knowledge of the city and its politics of all those present. He is also acutely aware that the Church of Wee Jas is not looked upon favorably considering the actions of its former leadership just mere weeks ago. Much as he would like to be a force for change as his allies are, he must remain neutral else the position of the Church will be compromised in the other direction.
"Th-that...could w-work," Marigold whispers to her companions, though she keeps her eyes on the other nobles and representatives in attendance as she does. "If R-Ryan is willing to d-do it. He's g-got the noble n-name but also the b-backing and c-counsel of J-Jenya and s-some of the others..."
Lady Vanderboren nods in agreement "From what I know Ryan is a prudent man, respectful to law and devoted to the city. And he is undoubtedly of noble blood. I think I will support your candidate Ankhin"
"Jenya has only good words for you. I will support you Ryan, if that is what you wish" Lady Ophellha Knowlern adds her bit.
Asfelkir Hranleurt, High Priest of Gorum nods "Ryan is a strong man, I have seen him fight multiple times along the guard and the Cauldron Watchers. I respect his strength and would support such a man for the position"
Kristof Jurgensen, priest of Sarenrae nods too "He is also devoted to people. He made all which was at his hand and more to find the water control wands and save the city from the floods. Remained organizing all of us long hours after all others were exhausted. He has also taken care of the orphans and of those ill many times in the past. Ryan is a man of high morals and I will support him for Lord Mayor"
Lord Vanderboren looks at Ryan "For how much would you sell Vhalantru's Manor?"
Liorial Lathenmire shrugs "I know you have had issues with my daughter in the past, but having a priest of the god of trade as Lord Mayor would be good for the smithy. I guess I will just abstain myself from voting"
Maavu shrugs "I can only say he was fair and just when all others pointed their accusing finger at me during the riots. We need a fair leader who cares about trade. I will endorse him Lord Taskerhill"
Having advocated for a noble not willing to take the position, Lord Aslaxin finds a hard time to oppose "This is sure one of your plots Ankhin..." the man looks rabid, but cannot find a strong reason to oppose the proposition.
Jenya turns to the cleric with a smile "So... do you accept the position Ryan?"
The cleric blinks "I do not know what to say" he looks back at you all.
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JJ saunters over to Ryan and gives him a light jab. "I think you know what to say."
He leans closer and whispers "three million gold. But say it to Vanderboren."
Kythel nods, "The Church of Wee Jas is also in support of this decision".
Privately, he preferred not to have a member of the clergy as Mayor but with the tide moving in this direction and his allies seeming to wish this as well, Kythel will not stand in the way.
"I've stood witness to the man's tonsure, been healed by him countless times, and watched him risk his life time and again to see Cauldron safe. He learns quickly, and acts with restraint." Kikinnin looks at Ryan.
"You'll always be a Watcher, Ryan, but Cauldron's asking you to become something greater. Whatever your decision, I support you."
Ryan chuckles at JJ's whispered words and nods with a smile.
After some minutes of meditation, and with a serious face Ryan nods announcing "Well, then, if this is what gathers more consensus, I do accept this huge responsibility"
Jenya smiles delighted, Lord Taskerhill nods satisfied enough, and most other people seems eagerly satisfied the discussions are finally coming to and end.
The only one who seems pale and sad is Lord Aslaxin.
A chatter follows while Jenya prepares an official document for all the assistants to sign.
As Marigold looks around, her eyes suddenly settle on a spot somewhere just above Lord Taskerhill's head. Still staring, she clears her throat rather loudly and proclaims, "L-Lord Taskerhill? You've g-got quite the n-nosy f-fly circling your h-head. M-Maybe we should d-do something about that..."
And she points, for emphasis.
"Oh... odd. Have we seen one of those before? I wonder who is watching us."
He offers a cheeky wave.
Oh wait... we could have fed some interesting disinformation...
He sighs.
Kikinnin hears both companions speak, not paying much mind to Marigold's observation at first. When JJ utters his last sentence, the black beard draws his Axe, resting its head on the table, and holding its grip tightly, while looking about the room.
As soon as Marigold points towards the sensor and Kikinnin grasps his axe there is a magical wind raising up the dust all over Lord Taskerhill and putting off the cups at the table, spoiling the wine over the document Jenya is writing.
Four pale blue humanoids with bulging white eyes, wild hair, four-fingered hands, and a large axes materialize around Lord Taskerhill.
The ugliest one, a small, hunched dwarf-like creature with blue-white skin and bulging white eyes points at you. He wears unkempt but fine robes, and a long, wispy goatee hangs from his chin and upper lip. His hair is crudely cut in no particular fashion, likely just chopped by one of his berserkers when the mood suits him by the looks of it. He seems like the leader of the group and erupts into a maniacal laugh "This meeting is sooooooo boring. Time to bring up some chaos and evil fun! Greet your show host Kravichak Riolgh! MUAHAHAHAHA!"
These creatures are derros, dangerous descendants of mysterious fey that once dwelt deep underground in the Darklands.
They have spell resistance and a few spell like abilities.
Marigold's Surprise Round
"ಡೆರೋ! ಅವರು ಮ್ಯಾಜಿಕ್ ಅನ್ನು ವಿರೋಧಿಸುತ್ತಾರೆ ಮತ್ತು ಕೆಲವು ಸಹಜ ಕಾಗುಣಿತ-ಶಕ್ತಿಯನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿದ್ದಾರೆ!"
"Derro! They resist magic and have some innate spell-powers!"
Not inclined to play around when there are civilians to protect, Marigold quickly conjures a blessing of fervor for her allies.
______________
Marigold is fast to react, bringing a fervorous blessing on most of the assistants, such is the power of Occipitus.
The first derro enters a frenetic rage and cleaves Lord Taskerhill and Kythel with her greataxe.
The long swipe opens Taskerhill's belly who plummets to the floor immediately and then strikes powerfully on Kythel's arm.
The second one cuts deep also in Kythel with his greataxe.
The last derro swipes a cleave through the priest and Jenya.
The priest takes another terrible hit and the axe continues the swipe to also cut Jenya deeply.
Kravichak starts to fly up gaining height to see better among the area "Da axe will make a good collection for my berserkers dwarf! Remind to drop it while you turn to DUST! MUAHAHAHAHA! Take my disintegrate spell! Take it! Take it! MUAHAHAHAHA" the derro's gibbering screams of joy and ecstasy while he casts his spell are unhinging.
JJ hurries up to the spellcaster, but doesn't have time to do more than threaten her with Alakast.
"Don't you even think about hurting my friends."
Kikinnin winces less than he would had he not girded his loins the instant before the strange grey man stabbed him with magic.
"You've already killed your mark, Krav. See yourselves out, or you'll see yourselves slain." The black beard looks past the berserkers, eyeballing the mustachioed...
Marigold's Round 1
Determined to keep the derro from getting away Marigold conjures a bolt of lightning and directs it at the mad, cackling Kravichak...
...and then arcing off to the other three derro!
______________
JJ moves around the table engaging the closest derro.
Marigold cracks through the spell resistance and blows Kravichak powerfully, the rays forking and getting secondary strikes on the other derros.
On their furious rage, the derros try to finish Kythel and start to attack also Kikinnin and JJ.
Kythel's armor deflects one of the axe hits enough for the derro to strike the wooden table once despite striking true another couple of times. Badly injured, but the cleric holds himself.
Another of the derros steps over Lord Taskerhill and tries to do the same with Kikinnin.
The dwarf proofs a harder nut to crack, but still he receives a good slash on his arm.
The last one goes on JJ.
The young man fails to dodge a couple of times but Marigold's fervor deflects the blows nevertheless!
The crowd at the meeting hall starts to shout, people running in all directions.
Jenya calls "Save the civilians!"
"Jenya!" Ryan calls for the church leader and enters the room risking an attack.
The man takes the hit stoically and hands Alek Tercival and Lord Aslaxin and seems to ready a spell.
Then Jenya starts to say divine words and touches Kythel with healing magic.
Then Jenya moves past JJ and joins hands with Ryan who quickly casts a spell and teleports Jenya, Aslaxin and Alek out of the battle.
The Vanderboreens stand up and retreat looking for the corridor screaming in panic.
"How dare you assault a meeting like that?!" Asfelkir Hranleurt stands up saying the words of righteous might and the half-orc enlarges into gigantic proportions "Gorum help me destroy my enemies!" and steps forward to support Kikinnin while drawing his large greatsword.
"Quickly! Give me your hands!" Eidi runs from the corner of the room to nearby the fireplace, picking Kristof Jurgensen, Maavu and Lady Ophellha in the run and gesturing for Liorial Lathenmire to approach "Quickly, this is too dangerous! Let's leave this to the experts!"
When the smithy woman reaches the half-elf, he says words of arcane power and disappears with those around him using a dimension door.
Kythel grimaces as he would like to attempt to heal Lord Taskerhill but with the raging Derro threatening him from mere feet away, all he can do is try and hold himself together.
The Cleric heals himself and his allies and selects out the foes.
Quicken Channel
Channel Energy
Taking the grace of speed from Marigold, JJ ignores the axe wielder for the moment and concentrates on the spellcaster.
Alakast swings at them again and again, trying to break through the assassins defences. However his rapid strikes seem more off target than normal, and most fail to get especially close to breaking through the creatures defences.
5' step and then full attack.
Sadly I don't think any FE bonuses apply here.
AC = 33/13/32 (+6 against lead derro)
HP = 124/172
Weapon Equipped = Eldgammel
Condition(s) = Blessing of Fervor, Smite Evil
Kikinnin receives another powerful attack, and takes measure of the assassins in the room. With one of them directly in his face, bleeding with a singular blow, the decision is easy. Even with the very large half-orc breathing down his neck. Kikinnin steps to the side a little, making room for Asfelkir, and stepping in front of Marigold. Looking down on his wrist, he feels a righteous burning, coming from Celeste's Gift.
"Who sent you, Krav? You one of Vhalantru's, come to avenge his death?" Kikinnin doesn't expect much of a conversation, but the beady-white-eyed mustache sounds ready for a rant.
Marigold's Round 2
Marigold inwardly breathes a sigh of relief as the rest of the civilians are either evacuated or have the sense to put some distance between themselves and the melee. Deciding to help keep the derro busy she conjures a spiritual ally to help Kikinnin and JJ...
Kythel quickly channels his healing energy closing most of the parties' wounds!
JJ moves over the chairs and spins with Alakast in his hands striking thrice on the flying derro!
Marking the derro in front, Kikinnin quickly swings his axe bringing retaliation for the previous offense. The metal bites twice although it deals slightly less damage than what the dwarf expected.
Marigold calls her spiritual ally. An angel of force with a whip appears next to the derro and strikes twice, both times the force damage completely bypassing the creature defenses.
Seeing Kythel in danger, Maxim says arcane words of power and attempts to cage the derro attacking the priest in an icy prison.
The derro is suddenly covered by frost, entangling his movements, but not trapped.
Asfelkir swings his massive sword trying to help Kikinnin bring down one of the berserkers.
But the only swing close enough is deflected by the natural toughness of the derro.
From the entrance Dandarrion shots a couple of arrows at the derro in the door.
But both are deflected by the creature's armor!
"OUCH! AUCH!" Kravichak complains for the damage caused by Alakast and hovers flying up and away from the young man's reach "Who sends Kravichack?! Kravichack sends himself! MUAHAHAHAHA! Cauldron has calmed down too much; a little chaos an fear can only further the Cagewrights' plans!"
"And now take this ray of enervation and find the rest of the answers! MUAHAHAHAHA!" a black ray of pure darkness flies from the derro's fingers and strike Kikinnin right in his nose.
The berserker derros continue their attacks with unlimited fury. The first one on Kikinnin trying to be more accurate.
The axe cuts wide and deep twice, and Kikinnin's head is preserved in the shoulders just thanks to Abadar's smiting mark.
The one in the door goes for JJ, stepping away from the spiritual ally and Dandarrion's arrows.
The berserker strikes twice and JJ dodges once.
The frosted in ice goes for Kythel hoping to kill him this time and growling frustrated by the priest wounds healing so fast. Finding him easy to hit and fast to heal, he continues power attacking.
And hits frustrated the table when Maxim's frost and his own might gives Kythel the opportunity to dodge half of the attacks.
Wincing in pain, blue light spills from the youths wound where the Derro axe opened him up.
He then turns his attention on the berserker. "Lets see how you enjoy a bit of your own medicine"
Alakast slams against the derro in green again and again.
Marigold's Round 3
Realizing that Kythel needs some help Marigold pushes forward and climbs up on top of the table so that she can reach him. And as she reaches out she channels all the healing power she can muster, completely healing his wounds as her fingertips brush his shoulder.
Meanwhile the spiritual ally edges back up to Green, swinging away!
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While his wounds heal, JJ strikes three times on the derro, but Alakast is hold a bit due to the creature resistance to damage.
Climbing over the table, Marigold brings powerful magic of healing on Kythel, who feels his vital energy completely recovered! Her spiritual ally strikes twice, both force attacks bypassing any damage resistance.
Maxim levels his gun and performs an impromptu sneak attack shot at the flying wizard delivering an acid arrow to make his casting more difficult.