Selvin and Izzick , the door swings open.

Beyond is a larger room, about thirty by thirty feet. You are entering from the south. To the west, an open archway leads into another large room, the details of which you can not make out from here. To the north, is a door leading who knows where. But you could probably ask Zuni and Chandanar, because they are standing in the northern doorway, looking at you.

Of more immediate concern however is the interior decorating of the room right before you. From floor to ceiling, every surface is decorated in a busy, almost deafening mosaic depicting a swarm of hornets.

Zuni, The door to the south swings open and there are Selvin and Izzick . There is a glowing woman with them, holding the half orc's hand.

Chandanar waves at them. And now that everyone is all together, I will reveal the identity of the killer! He blinks at you all. What? Then he gestures at the glowing woman holding Izzick's hand. Uhhh...no one told me we could bring girlfriends.

Zuni let out a relaxed sigh as she saw her missing companions framed in the door on the other side of the room.  It was good to see them both safe.  She stood, a smile on her face and took a step...

...and quickly pulled her foot back before she touched the floor.  "Selvin!  Izzick!  Don't enter the room!" She shouted and raised up a hand to stop them.  "It's trapped.  The hornets come to life."

Zuni was about to continue but the glowing woman caught her attention.  The woman was glowing, which was not something that she saw every day, and Zuni could not help but stare at her with a mix of curiousity and wonder.

Selvin hesitated and wanted to reach out to slowly touch Chandanar and Zuni. They could be illusions...but he doubted it. That would be something someone had created very recently. So instead of being paranoid, he grinned at them. "HI! Man, it's good t'see ya both again! This place sucks!"

He looked around at the new room they found themselves in, chuckling at Chandanar's comment. "Yeah, this is why we don't put on rings we haven't gotten identified yet, RIGHT?"

He looked at the mosaic. "That looks....disturbin'." He glanced at the doorways. "Uhh...which one have you NOT gone through yet?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:19, Wed 28 Sept 2016.

Izzick stopped nearly as soon as they entered the room, offering to the cleric, "Feel free to take her off my hands when you can," though Zuni's warning made him wince a little, the halforc biting his lip between his tusks. That was the last thing he wanted to hear while wearing this thing. And he hoped the newly wed attached to him didn't get any funny ideas.

Not sure if it's ok to explain, but to sum it up: the woman is the projection of a cursed Ring of Trap-setting off...RIP

Selvin stopped before he entered at Zuni's warning. He looked down at the floor for a moment and then back up at her. "Is it stepping on the floor? Cause I can fly." He glanced back at Izzick with a frown. "Hmm. Not sure I can carry you an' still fly. I don't have Fly as a spell either."

He looked over at Zuni, "Well, we can't jus' stand here, an' I don't really wanna go back the way we came. Whaddya suggest?"

"...take her off his..." Zuni said softly, her attention still focussed on the glowing woman.  The questions brought her out of her musings with a snap.  "...uh...right...I think that there's a path through the room that might be safe.  I was just about to give it a try.  If you're coming through there and we're here, then the only place to go is through to that room off to the side."

Trying to remember where she saw the path, Zuni started to slowly step across the floor.  "...better not go off...hate to lose that wine..."

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 6):

The path is easy to see once you look for it. As you set foot into the room, the Hornets suddenly come blazing up, peeling themselves off the floor and...hover in mid air.

It seems as long as you stay on the path, you are safe. They just buzz around without violating the non-existent walls that make up the path.

The alcove to the west leads to a small chamber. The chamber is bare except for a lever set in the wall...just waiting for someone to tug on it.

Zuni carefully picked her way through the Hornets, giving them cautious glances as she did so.  She pointed out the path to the rest of the group.  "Seems to be safe so long as you stay on the path."  she said, turning her attention to the lever.  She frowned at it.  "Another lever.  I guess we have no choice but to pull it."

She moved up to the lever and started to look it over.

OOC:
Perception -> 25
Disable device -> 28 (If it will help prevent anything bad from happening)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:39, Sat 01 Oct 2016.

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 8):

The lever seems to activate a sliding door in the wall. Other than that it looks safe.

The Hornets buzz around a respectable distance away from the arch.

"Good job, Zuni!" Selvin flashed her a double-grin (both half-elf and tiger-thing). Then he moved over towards where the new door had opened up, staying on the path so the hornets wouldn't 'activate' after him.

Following behind the summoner, the half-orc kept his eyes steady on the hornets, ignoring his ring, trying his best to follow along the pathways. "The faster we're out the better. These Arkonas...better be worth the hell-full of trouble we're going through."

Zuni waited until the rest of the group was in the relative safety of the side room and then pulled on the lever.

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 12):

A section of the wall slides forward, revealing a short hall ending in an alcove.  The ceiling here is high, and set 10' above the end of the alcove is an opening, an arch leading into a room set above the level you are on now.

Light spills out from the archway.  A slight breeze blows from it, carrying the scent of jasmine, lilac, and cinnamon.

The next room is a 10' climb/flight up from the floor.  I do need to know how ya'll are going to get up there.  Thanks

Selvin started to move forward and then stopped dead suddenly. He turned his head to look at Zuni. "Heh. I s'pose I should let you check fer traps first, huh?" He winked at her and then looked down the hallway with careful scrutiny.

10:01, Today: Selvin Larst rolled 26 using 1d20+12.  Perception to check traps in the new hallway.

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 14):

There seems nothing ominous in the hall.  The opening in the wall above has a lip extending out.  If there is a trap, you would assume it would be there.  But from this distance, it is hard to tell.

Zuni returned Selvins wink with a short grin.  It felt good to be all together again, even with the freaky glowing woman.  She'd have to ask Izzick about that later.  She sheathed her sword and took one of the wine bottles that she had made into a makeshift incendiary device.  After pulling out the strip of cloth that was going to be used as a wick, Zuni took a few deep gulps of wine and handed the bottle back to the others.

Zuni crept forward to check for any danger.

OOC:
Perception -> 11 (yikes)

Assuming that there's no danger in the bottom of the room, Zuni will try to climb up and check out the ledge.
Climb -> 8

Maybe drinking the wine was a bad idea.  :)

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 16):

No traps here.

Zuni reaches for an outcropping and misses her footing. <Orange>Give it another shot. No harm done </Purple>

Selvin watches carefully. He doesn't want something to jump out at her, but he stays back about ten feet or so. He whispers out, "Do y'want me t'fly up there instead?"

Zuni quickly regains her footing and keeps climbing up to the opening.

"...fly...how could I forget that he could fly..." she muttered to herself as she propped her arms up on the ledge to pul herself up.   She looked back over her shoulder at Selvin and chuckled.  "It seems safe so far.  You want to join me up here?"

OOC:
Climb -> 21

If they made it out of this place alive, Izzick felt he'd need to start studying up on spells that might help him climb. "Do we all need to head up there?" he asks, getting ready to make his way up. He was certain he'd done more physical activity in the past few weeks than all of his studious life combined.

01:01, Today: Izzick rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Climb?
Not sure if it's needed or if just Zuni had to head up there - it's unclear if it's just to check for traps or the destination

Once Zuni finished, as he didn't want to make it more difficult for her, Selvin then flew up to take a look around before seeing about helping Izzick and Chandanar up as well...assuming that it was a way to keep going up there.

Zuni pulls herself over the lip of the edge as Selvin ferries Izzick and Chandanar up behind her.  Glowy dangles from the Half Orc's wrist.

Remind me to ask for something to deal with curses next time I meditate, Chandanar mumbles to Izzick.  Unless of course-

He is stopped in his supposition by the flow of events.

The opening leads into a large room.  A cloth covered table with two chairs is set up on the far wall.  A lantern, a set of dealt playing cards, and two stacks of gold coins on top of the table would seem to indicate you have interrupted a card game of some kind.  The players are not in view.

As you get your bearings you hear a click.  The noise seems apropos of nothing however as no trap activates.  Instead, fifteen feet away and to your left, a woman wearing a leather dress appears out of thin air.  In one hand is a bottle and in the other is a wand.  Guess which one is pointed at you?

Nezzichallachwatchin she manages to intone.  A gout of flame gushes from the tip of the wand...

I need two rolls please:  A Perception check vs DC 30 and a Reflex Save vs DC 18.  Thanks

Zuni was a little distracted by the sight of the gold on the table and did not notice the woman until it was too late.

OOC:
Perception -> 15
Reflex Save ->10

Selvin finished hauling up his allies, which was hard work by the way! He wasn't made of muscle, though certainly the symbiote helped in that regard. He was much MUCH stronger with the symbiote than he normally was. He let out a little breath of relief and turned towards the room...just in time for fire to come his way.

21:15, Today: Selvin Larst rolled 19,13 using d20+12,d20+7.  Perception, Reflex.

As soon as Izzick arrived at the top, it was obvious they weren't the  only ones up there. Another woman and somehow one that was even more dangerous. Dreams come true was Izzick's last thought before the fire burst from the wand

19:50, Today: Izzick rolled 3 using 1d20-1.  Perception.
19:51, Today: Izzick rolled 15 using 1d20+4.  Reflex.

Hmm. I was not expecting that to work as well as it did.

Glowie launches towards the gout of flame, laughing like a child who sees her parent offering a candy. Izzick, The tug on your arm sends you stumbling and you fall to your knees, the flame gout singing the top of your head 3 pts dam

The rest of you...not so much. 12 pts dam

Chandanar beats a smoldering patching his jacket and says Lemme know if you need a touch up healing wise...

The woman is moving to drink from her potion bottle. At the same time, the cloth draped table suddenly overturns with a crash, falling on it's side so the top faces you. A spindly man dressed in leathers was under the table and he now comes up with a crossbow...

I am going on initiative 12. Missy is to your right is 15' away and about to gulp from her potion bottle. Spindly behind the table is in front of you about thirty feet away and he has a loaded crossbow. Izzick, you can stand no problem.

Shout out to Chandanar for healing. He will be healing first come, first serve  unless you fall over. Thanks
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:16, Fri 14 Oct 2016.

"I'm so damn sick of this party," Izzick near screams, arcane gestures and words calling on his inner most reserves of power. Behind the the potion chugging woman and the man behind the table, the walls seeping with black ooze that formed protean tentacles behind them.

Casting Black Tentacles! Time for the fade to black folks!
00:46, Today: Izzick rolled 21 using 1d20+13.  Grapple.

If the tentacles succeed in grappling a foe, that foe takes 1d6+4 points of damage and gains the grappled condition. Grappled opponents cannot move without first breaking the grapple. All other movement is prohibited unless the creature breaks the grapple first.

The black tentacles spell receives a +5 bonus on grapple checks made against opponents it is already grappling, but cannot move foes or pin foes. Each round that black tentacles succeeds on a grapple check, it deals an additional 1d6+4 points of damage.

The CMD of black tentacles, for the purposes of escaping the grapple, is equal to 18.

In case either fails:
00:47, Today: Izzick rolled 6 using 1d6+4.  Table Man.
00:47, Today: Izzick rolled 5 using 1d6+4.  Potion Woman.

In reply to Izzick (msg # 27):

Ohhhhh. I haven't seen that spell in ages. One of my personal favorites. Izzy you are going on a 15 init by the by

The thick, black rubbery looking spools of ectoplasmic awesomeness spew forth, grasping at their quarries like old women surrounding a cabbage cart on two-for-one sale day.

The woman makes a Whadahell before being swallowed up. The man roars and charges forward, leaping over the table and just making it out of their grip. He shoots the crossbow, but it goes wild and the bolt chatters harmlessly off the wall. He moves to draw a sword at his side...

Ya'll go

Selvin let out a small eerie combination roar of pain from both the symbiote and himself as the fire engulfed them for a moment. He shook himself and his eyes narrowed in rage. He flew up to the table and began attacking the man behind it, lashing out with claws, fangs and tail stinger, electricity arcing around his 'weapons'.

20:04, Today: Selvin Larst rolled 20 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.
20:09, Today: Selvin Larst rolled 24,25,19,21,29 using d20+10,d20+10,d20+10,d20+10,d20+10.  Charging pounce on crossbow guy, Power Attack -2. Bite, Claw, Claw, Stinger, Bite.
20:11, Today: Selvin Larst rolled 15,16,13,17,17 (3,4,5,3,1,4,6,3,6,3) using 2d6+8,2d6+8,2d6+8,2d6+8,2d6+8.  Damage in order, the 2nd d6 per is electrical.

Zuni had almost rushed at the woman but stopped as soon as Izzicks spell went off.  The mass of black, writhing tentacles that appeared on the floor of the room made Zuni decide against running in to them.  At least not when there was no reason to do so.  Instead, she unslung her composite longbow and nocked an arrow.  She couldn't see the woman and the man on the  table was fighting with Selvin.

Taking careful aim, Zuni let her arrow fly at the man on the table.

OOC:
Initiative -> 26
Bow attack -> 21 (roll of 25 minus 4 for being in melee)
Damage -> 2

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 29):

The man behind the table goes flying from the fury of the combined attacks.  He lands with a loud thud across the over turned table, quite dead.  Quite, quite dead. Quite, quite, quite, quite dead.  Let's move on.

Now that your vision isn't being impeded by flames and guys leaping across tables,  you see a door in the north wall.  The door is thick wood, bearing a crest showing two tigers ripping apart a maiden.  From the look on her face, she seems to actually be enjoying it.  Well.  Your hosts have proven they do walk on the dark side of life.

Chandanar raises a hand.  So...ah...healing anyone?

Selvin's symbiote spit out blood and let out a huff of air. As the half-elf looked around, he saw the 'crest' and grimaced. "Man. This place." He shook his head.

He glanced at Chandanar and hesitated. "Well...Zac could use some healin', but I can give him a bit instead or in addition to, if ya wanna give him a bit."

Zuni lowered her bow, keeping the arrow dangling between her fingers.  "I could use a bit of your healing touch, Chandanar." she said to him.  The crest on the door was disturbing but not entirely unusual in this place.  Shaking her head slowly, trying to imagine why anyone would find being torn apart by tigers pleasurable, and hooked her bow into its place on her pack.

"These are very odd folks." she said, stepping over to their fallen opponent.  He wouldn't miss whatever was in his pockets.

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 32):

Should we do somethin' about Ms. Wand over there? Chandanar says between healing chants. Selvin, you get back 17.  Zuni, 20.  Izzy?

The fallen soldier has elaborate armor.  Quite functional if gaudy.  The crossbow is nice.  And mildly glowy on the mage's radar Masterwork chain mail.  Crossbow +1

There is a decent amount of coin scattered on the ground.  225 GP

"Could use some too if you can spare it," Izzick said, though he's hoped to keep himself from being wounded much further. Wasn't exactly easy in this place. "Think we've almost found them?" Izzick asked, the door fit the rest of their decorations pretty well.

In reply to Izzick (msg # 35):

Chandanar mumbles and lays a hand on Izzick's shoulder. Glo waves at him as he says, That's my guess. Whadda ya think happened to the others?

Selvin eyed the woman and then eyed the black tentacles. He glanced back at Izzick. "So....is it...safe to go over there and get her? I don't wanna get...grabbed by those things..." He sounded uncertain.

Zuni stuffed the coins into a belt pouch and picked up the crossbow.  She'd have to strip the armor off of the man when they had more time.  Standing up, she pointed the crossbow at the trapped woman.

"Okay, lady.  How about you tell us who you are and what's going on here before those black tentacles suck the life out of you."

Izzick raised a brow, "Not really, I'm not controlling them, I can just make them. They grab naturally. But who knows what they're going to do to her." His eyes turned on the woman currently bound in the black tentacles, accentuating that Zuni might have been entirely right.

19:50, Today: Izzick rolled 21 using 1d20+11.  Intimidation.

In reply to Izzick (msg # 39):

They'll crush me, but not for much longer She says with a grunt, glaring back at Izzick . She then glares at Zuni . I work for the family. They're inside there. In the temple. One last game for you to play. And no. I don't know what it is. I just hope you get what's comin' to you. Oh these damn things are grabbing me in all the most unpleasant places.

Wow, says Chandanar, finishing his work on Izzick. The mental pictures that last statement conjures up could put a man off octopus dumplings for like...forever.

I have no idea why my dice like Izzy so much. 22 points healing Izzy

Zuni glared back at the woman.  Get what's coming to them?  Kind of a funny thing for an evil family to say.

"Who all is in there?  We've already defeated the Baron so he can't be counted amongst the number."  Zuni asked as she slowly stepped to Selvins side.

Keeping her voice low so that she wouldn't miss any reply, Zuni asked Selvin a question.  "I don't think that I can get to this woman and avoid those tentacles.  Can you fly over to her and knock her out while she's stuck?  It might be good to take someone back alive from this place to corroborate any of our stories."

Selvin's lips twisted in to a snarl. "Us? We're not the bad guys here. The family is a bunch o'twisted immoral asses, an' YOU work for 'em!" He glanced at Zuni and gave a hesitant nod. "Gimme a reason why I shouldn't kill you."

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 41):

She laughs humorlessly. I'm already dead. You think the Arkonas are going to let me off if I apologize? As for the Baron, I doubt you killed him. Maybe his mouthpiece. But the Baron wouldn't die by the likes of youl.l

That wasn't the Baron that Izzick and Zuni had fought before?  That was a chilling thought and hopefully one that was not true.

"You're thinking about this wrong." Zuni replied to the woman.  "If the Arkonas are gone, then you would have the run of this place.  That is, assuming that you cooperate with us.  I know what I could do with a place like this and a mind full of self gratifyingly sinful thoughts.  Of course, if you'd rather end your life..."

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 44):

If I thought you could win, I would take you up on that in a moment. But I'Lloyd are you a deal. Let me go. I won't interfere. Hell. I'll get the hell outta here. In exchange, I'll tell you what I know. Deal?

Zuni was a little surprised that the woman had actually decided to make a counter offer, hell she was surprised that the woman had said something other than another threat.

As tempting as the offer was, Zuni was not the leader of these companions and decision was not just hers to make.  She looked at her companions to see what they thought of the offer.

"Given your position, I think you'd better give up what you know first. It's not like we can get past you without ending the spell. So it's sit here and wait, or fess up and get the hell out."

Selvin frowned and thought for a long moment. Finally, he nodded. "If she's really just a hired hand, I guess I'm willin' t'hear what she has t'say an' then let her leave." He looked at the woman once more with steel in his voice as he spoke. "However, if you're ever on the wrong side against me again, or if I hear you've been workin' fer people in this city again an' killin' good people, you die. Plain an' simple. I'd suggest you leave the city honestly. Less chance of us crossin' paths again ever."

Zuni nodded at her companions and then turned to the trapped woman.  "That's probably the best deal that you're going to get.  Time to hold up your end and start talking."

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 49):

Alright...fair enough.  She glances in the direction of the door and then speaks quietly.  They're lycanthropes.  All of 'em.  Tigers.  They get off pretending to be some kind of...weird demon called a Raksasha.  But that's bogus.  They just magic up their skin.  Not that they need it much.  Even without the defensive charms, they're pretty tough.  The sisters are both skilled at unarmed combat.  I mean really skilled.  The shorter one...she'll have blackish fur.  More like a panther than a tiger...she likes to envenom her claws.  The other one has some alchemical training.  So watch yourself there.

The real problem is the Baron.  He's the real deal. Albino tiger fur.  You know the spell Mirror Image?  He has a ring that will cast it.  So yeah.  Watch out for that.  Other than that though you need to slug it out with him.  He'll be protected against most spells.

Lastly, they have a couple of pets.  Big tigers.  The primitive kind with the big teeth.  They're well trained.  So, counting them, the Baron, and his two sisters, you guys are outnumbered.

But...Hell.  Might as well.  Baron is kind of a gambling addict.  You might be able to use that to your advantage.  I don't know how.  But he will not turn down most wagers.

Now then. That really is all I know.

Selvin tried not to look surprised by the news but he couldn't help it. The news was so unexpected! Plus, the tiger-shaped symbiote around seemed eager, confused and a bit wary all at once. It wasn't sure how it felt about fighting tiger-shaped people. Selvin wasn't sure either, but for different reasons. His face looked a bit pensive as he mulled it over.

He nodded and waved a hand. "Very well. I think we should let her go."

"...yeah...sure...a deals a deal..." Zuni said, her attention now focussed on the door and what lay behind it.  Lycanthropes with magical defenses and venom.  It was not what she wanted to hear, even less was that the Baron was most likely still alive.  she was beginning to wonder if she should have gone shopping for additional gear before coming here, but then how was she to know that they'd end up in a dungeon below the city fighting Were-cats.  "I don't suppose you know where there are any silver weapons lying around?"

Not really.  Probably not a surprise the Arkonas don't like us keeping such around  She stumbles forward as Izzick cancels the spell.

But I doubt it'd do you much good.  They've got themselves so magicked up...well. Best of luck.

And she sprints for the ledge.

Izzick released the spell and watched the woman take off. Now was their time to prepare. Or at least as much  as they could. From his bag he took two things, the first a scroll, enchanting himself with a magical shield. The second object looked more like a pouch of finely ground herbs which Izzick crushed in his hands. If there had ever been a time for him to use the one thing he still had from his father, now was it.

Finally he'd offer, "Alright, let's get this over with." Finishing off an incantation, he'd cover each of them in his sorcerous protection.

Going to use the scroll to cast Shield on myself and then take my War Spirit Pouch - an orc who inhales the herbs gets 1d4+1 temp HP for 10 minutes. (15:49, Today: Izzick rolled 5 using 1d4+1.
)

Finally, Izzick will cast Communal Protection from Evil on the group. 2 Minutes on Izzick and 3 on Selvin and Zuni.
First, the subject gains a +2 deflection bonus to AC and a +2 resistance bonus on saves. Both these bonuses apply against attacks made or effects created by evil creatures.
Second, While under the effects of this spell, the target is immune to any new attempts to possess or exercise mental control over the target
Third, the spell prevents bodily contact by evil summoned creatures.

Selvin gave a nod of thanks to Izzick. He held off on casting any of his own spells for the moment. Most of them didn't last long and he didn't want to take the chance that they'd all get dispelled or ruin a chance to make them useful by wasting them now. He stepped forward to go meet the 'tigers'.

This was going to be a tough fight.  Zuni had no doubt about it.  The fight with the Baron had been difficult enough, and Izzick and her had the guy outnumbered.  She reached into a pouch on her belt and withdrew a long red strip of what looked to be a torn flag.  It was the remains of the banner that Paddox, her mentor, had carried with him on his campaigns.  The insignia was still visible though worn by age and conflict.  He said that it always brought him and his fighting companions good luck.  She quickly folded the cloth several times and tied it about her head like a bandana.

Zuni pulled out the magical battle-ax that they had found on the corpse of the 'Baron'.  It did not feel as light as her sword did, but it might come in handy against the remaining family members.  She hooked it into a spot from where she could rapidly draw the weapon if she needed it.

"I don't know what the situation is going to be like in there," Zuni said as she drew out her sword.  She paused to momentarily kiss the hilt.  "but we should try and work together to get into flanking positions against the Baron and his cronies.  We might luck out and maybe only one at a time will engage us physically.  You guys ready?"

OOC:
Cavalier Banner (Bandana) should give us +2 morale bonus against Fear and a +1 bonus to attack on a charge.

Teamwork feat is Precise Strike and would give us an additional 1D6 to damage when we're flanking a foe.

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 56):

The doors seem open.  No booby traps.  That's sometimes not as reassuring as you think it would be.

Any spells you wan' me to cast on anyone before we go in?  I got some blessings.  Some wards against evil...which saying out loud always makes me feel kinda... Chandanar lets it drop.

Charging in?  And in what order?  I'm working on a map now.  Thanks.

Izzick would obviously be last; Selvin first and Zuni second in front? I think that probably works best, but those two have final say

Selvin hesitated and then shook his head at Chandanar. "Izzy already hit us with Protection from Evil an' anythin' else might be a waste. Rather you save it for when we're in the thick an' you better know what might be needed. But thanks."

He took the lead in.

Zuni followed Selvin in.

The hall beyond the doors is markedly different than the ones you have been transversing through. The rough stone is replaced by smooth green and gold polished stone. Instead of torches on the wall, straps of rope enchanted to shed light are run along the upper corners of the ceiling. The scent of cinnamon and cardamom hang in the air.

You take a moment to eat a few handfuls of rations. Chandanar prays and the wizardry types do their thing Consider all spells refreshed and everyone gains 15 HP . You then proceed further inside.

The hall twists once more and ahead you see two rooms. A forechamber of some sort and beyond what looks like a throne room.

The forecaster before you is done in the same stone you have seen. Tapestries hang on the ceiling depicting smiling tiger headed people eating children and need gnomes. On each side of  entry to the short hall to the north of you, two large, silvery tigers are chained to the wall. They have a soft glow to them and seem slightly otherworldly. Reclining against the side of the one to the west is against small boy. He is rested in finery and stares at the ceiling with a vacant expression while petting thetiger. The tiger to the east has the bodies of two men under it's paws. A dwarf in rumor and a silvery headed good looking, if bloodied, man. It appears your companions arrived before you. Tarrov is moaning. The Dwarf is completely still.

Beyond them you can see what appears to be a throne room beyond. A tiger-man sits on the throne and a tiger-woman reclines on a divan nearby. The woman is dressed in silks. By her hand are several small jars. Tiger-Guy looks like the man you already fought Zuni and Izzick . But he seems a bit larger and broader than last time. He sneers in your direction. Because that is what Big Bads are supposed to do when they see the heroes now isn't it?

All eyes except the child's and your friends turn your way. No one moves though.

Even though she knew what they were going to find in this room, Zunis breath still caught as she saw the Baron.  It had been a hard fought battle against him before and she knew that it was going to be tough again. Only now, there were more of them.  And Tarrov and Belgar had already been defeated.  At least Tarrov still looked like he was alive.

"...this place is smaller than I was hoping for..." she said in a soft voice to her companions.  "...what are those glowing tigers?" She shifted into a defensive stance.

OOC:
Fighting Defensively
Identification attempt -> 2 (even with bonuses probably not going to learn anything)

Friends from another realm. Well, it looks like you have someone familiar with the concept. The Baron's voice is both soft growl and rich baritone, with a hint of mild, derisive boredom swirled in. He gestures at Selvin as he says the last bit. He then studies you all. We could go about this the rogue and tumble way. Or...if you want...we could make it interesting. So? How about it? Fancy a game?

"What did you have in mind?" Zuni replied warily.  Maybe they should just go ahead and attack now but at least the talking could let her companions get into a better position.

Selvin glanced at the silvery glowing tigers, wondering if they were summoned creatures or something else. But he saw his two friends crumpled in the room. A slow growl escaped from his and the tiger's mouths, almost unconsciously. His gaze swung over towards the tiger-man and there was anger in those eyes. But he restrained himself from immediately launching himself into the air like a living weapon for the moment.

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 65):

Well.  You seem to be the disadvantaged here.  So I'll give you an option.  We can do single combat:  one of yours against one of ours.  Or...we can play a game of riddles.  Or...if you really want to be bold...a game of dice.  which sounds most appealing?

Izzick was tired of games, but he looked to his friends. "I don't like this," he said quietly, "And I've got a feeling he'd cheat in all 3. If we do the fight, Selvin's our best bet." He looked to their captured friends - that was the Arkonas' real advantage. It meant that it would be hard not to play by their rules. "What do you think?"

Selvin frowned severely as he listened to the tiger-man. His eyes kept shifting towards his two injured friends. He banished silly thoughts and focused on the present. In a quiet voice he replied, "I hate riddles, likely 'cause I'm not good at 'em, an' a game o'dice seems chancy, especially since he could have loaded dice. I'm...loathe to risk our friends on a game o'chance. But..."

He spoke up and addressed the Baron. "What assurance do we have that you'll keep your word if we win an' let us an' our friends go?"

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 68):

Oh of course... He says in a way which makes you wonder if he means it.

Chandanar has been mumbling behind you. He goes quiet and whispers I think...I think he will keep his word. If you can get it with no loopholes...

Suprisingly the Baron is Lawful Evil

*****Corrected my post. Baron will KEEP his word. Not explain it. Sorry folks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:08, Thu 17 Nov 2016.

"...small comfort that..." Zuni said softly.  She looked over at Selvin.  "Are you up to a fight as our champion?  I'm no fan of riddles either, and I don't trust dice."

Selvin looked at Zuni, and then at the rest of his companions. It appeared they were all looking to him. He took in a deep breath, and then gave a slow nod. "I guess I'll have t'be, won't I?" He flashed her a quick grin. "Do we need t'get 'im t'spell out the ground rules an' exactly how we'll be let go t'leave unharmed any further or whatever?"

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 71):

The Baron smiles. You have two friends yes? Or is it three? You were looking for someone when you came here I imagine. The fight will be simple. Fight one of our tigers and I will give you either the dwarf or the silver haired man if you win. Fight one of us for the chancellor. And...to be fair...no magic on either side if you wish to fight one of us. If you win one fight, you and whomever you rescued with your bet, goes free.

Selvin pursed his lips for a moment and then sighed. "Right. Then I guess I'll fight multiple times, til I free 'em all, an' heal up in-between bouts." He cracked his neck then his knuckles from inside the symbiote. "I agree t'not cast any spells durin' the fight nor accept any spells from my allies durin' a fight as well."

He paused to make sure that was acceptable as he flew forward a bit to get away from his allies. He stood there, waiting. "Tiger first, then?"

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 73):

The Baron waves and one of the Tigers rises...

Selvin, he got an init of 15. AC is a 16. Go ahead and state your action and roll 'em

Izzick and Zuni, Chandanar leans over to you and whispers, Uhhh, didn't that lady tell us the Baron had two sisters? I only see one

Selvin gave a nod to the Baron and then a small bow to the oncoming tiger. Then he charged the tiger once it was ready. He let out a howl as he pounced on it and flashed out with his fangs, claws and tail stinger. "RRRAAAAAAAWWWWWRRRR!"

20:34, Today: Selvin Larst rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.

Charging the tiger-thing. Hit AC 18,27,25,16,16.
Damage in order (electrical in parenthesis, all damage magical): 17(6),18(4),12(3),19(6),19(5)

Zuni shifted her weight anxiously as Selvin charged forward.  She did not want to simply sit on the sidelines but Selvin was their strongest fighter.  It only made sense for him to start the fight.  Of course that put their fates entirely in his hands, and she didn't like that.  Not that Zuni did not trust Selvin but she could fight as well.

Something Chandanar said caught Zunis attention.  "That's right.  There were supposed to be two women with the Baron.  So where is the second one?  Invisible?"

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 76):

The tiger takes the brunt of the charge. Shreds of it's form seem to evaporate away from Selvin's target. But it manages to slash back once, then twice Selvin: 12 pts dam and 8 pts dam

Chandanar shrugs at Zuni's question, glancing around. I dunno. I just feel like we're overlooking something. I mean...it can't be this straightforward. Can it?

Izzick, You notice Glo seems to be watching the ceiling.

Selvin concentrated on the tiger in front of him for the moment, instead of other things. He knew there was more than met the eye going on, but he couldn't worry about that in addition to fighting the creature. He wasn't even sure what it was really, but he kept tearing at it, even as it wounded his symbiote. He bit hard and then lashed out with his claws and stinger before biting again.

OOC: Hit AC 23 for 17 dmg. AC 18 for 13 dmg. AC 18 for 17 dmg. AC 25 for 12 dmg. AC 15 for 15 dmg.

Following the ring-woman's gaze, the half-orc's eyes stared up, trying to figure out what had caught her attention.

12:52, Today: Izzick rolled 19 using 1d20-1 ((20)).
Nice

"Maybe it is this straight forward." Zuni replied.  She was unsure of her answer though. Challenges of honor was often the topic of a Bards song but she had a hard time believing that these Lycanthropes were honorable people.  "I don't know. We'll just have to wait and see."

She started to look around the room with interest, trying to see if there was something that they had been missing, like the Barons other sister.

OOC:
Perception -> 24

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 78):

The tiger makes a slash and then seems to come apart into ribbons of ethereal energy.

Izzick, You look up at the ceiling. Zuni, You notice his movement and follow his gaze.

The ceiling is natural stone. Small whorls and stalactites hang from the roof. Drifting across the ceiling is a patch of mist. A lonly little cloud drifting along the roof.

The Baron roars approval at your victory Selviin . Well done. Which friend did you want back again?

Selvin stepped back. He turned to look at the Baron after the roar, and didn't notice what his friends behind him were up to. He slowed his breathing a bit and pointed at Tarrov. "Him first." He tensed slightly, waiting to see if the Baron would honor the agreement or betray them...or if Tarrov had already had something done to him.

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 82):

The Baron nods and waves his hand.  You may retrieve him at your leisure.  I do seem to recall him having some wounds.

Izzick and Zuni, the misty cloud is moving towards just over Selvin's head.

Zuni stared at the swirling mist, trying to decide if it was natural or not.  It's odd movements were alarming.  She needed to get Selvin out from underneath the mist but she wasn't sure if she wanted to draw attention to the mist just yet.

"Selvin.  Can I speak with you for a minute?"  Zuni said, motioning Selvin to join her and Izzick away from the cloud.  She would softly point out the mist on ceiling to him when he came close.

Selvin took one step forward towards Tarrov, but then turned to look at Zuni with a frown. He looked torn for a moment on what to do, but finally relented and went back over to Zuni with a quizzical look on his face. "Yes? What's up?"

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 85):

I'll answer tomorrow in case Zuni or Izzick want to chime in

Zuni cast a wary glance back at the Baron.  "I just thought that it would be better for me to go and get Tarrov.  You can watch my back." she said, loud enough for the Baron to hear, and then dropped her voice to a whisper.  "the ceiling.  The mist. It...doesn't look right."

Giving Selvin a pat of her hand, Zuni walked towards where Tarrov lay.  She kept her eyes on the Baron. "You won't mind if I get our companion."

"What do you think we should do about it?" Izzick asked, hesitant to use magic, but trying to weigh the choices. Their Dwarven ally might have already fallen. But Selvin was the one in danger.

Selvin waited until Zuni began to move forward - and hopefully the eyes of the Baron and others watched her or at least flicked to her momentarily. He glanced up to see if he could see the mist Zuni had mentioned, and to see if it had followed him over to where he had talked to Zuni.

He shrugged at Izzick. "I'm uncertain. We're treadin' dang'rous waters here, mate. I guess let's see what happens with Zuni an' I'll keep fightin' while you figure out what the mist is...." He swallowed. "...hopefully not a vampire about t'pounce..."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:50, Wed 30 Nov 2016.

Zuni, You step forward, everything goes quiet. The other ethereal tiger glances at you but does nothing as you walk towards the still form of the silver headed bard.

Selvin and Izzick, The little cloud of mist is hovering slightly over the two of you as you whisper to each other. It does nothing untoward.

Zuni, You reach the bard. He is on his stomach making small groaning sounds. Peeking back at your teammates, than towards the cloud, than at the Arkonas, you reach towards him...slowly...oh so slowly...ooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhhhh soooooooooo veeeerrryyyyy ssssssllllloooowwwwwwwwwwwwwwlllllllllllllllllllllllyyyyyy...

And at the last moment, your Zuni senses start tingling. You manage to scrabble backwards as a hand-that-is-now-a-claw swipes through the air you were just occupying. Tarrov is suddenly up, crouching on the balls of his feet, hissing of
airtight you from a tiger like muzzle. It seems he is now the series that Weretigers in the room. The Dwarf is bounding up as well, certainly nowhere near as hot, but just as weretigerish.

The Baron makes a tsk tsk sound. Oh. Seems like you had a falling out with your friends. So sad.

Zuni took several steps away from the transformed Tarrov and Belgar, her blade flew out of it's scabbard with the tip pointing at Tarrov.

"What did you do to them!" she snarled at the Baron.

OOC:
Shifting into a total Defense stance, just in case.  :)

Selvin's attention suddenly dropped from the mist above them. His gaze snapped over to Zuni and...Tarrov? His eyes narrowed in anger and frustration at seeing his two allies now....How had they been turned into weretigers? Was it a trick or illusion? Were they able to be turned in to weretigers by the Baron after all it was done as well? Was there no protection?

He let out a loud growl. "You lyin' sack of evil crap! What'd you do t'our friends?? An' why??"

The Tarrov Tiger leaps at Zuni

Zuni, he's going at Init 16.  Go ahead and roll for me.  The rest of you as well please

The Baron puts on his shocked face.  Me?  Lying?  At what point did I ever say you would be getting them back as they were?  It's not my fault if you set your expectations too high...

Chandanar shouts I might be able to break the curse!  If you can, capture 'em alive! You know.  Unless they like start rippin' your throat out or somethin'

Selvin rolled his eyes, "Smarmy stupid sonovabitch." He did an obvious parody mimic of the Baron. "Oh I never promised you'd get them back as they were."

He let out another growl and flew forward towards Zuni and Tarrov intending to try and use non-lethal force on the weretiger.

OOC: Initiative 23.
Charging Power Attack Pounce on Tarrov (-4 to attacks for non-lethal).
Hit AC 13 (14 dmg), 26 (16 dmg), 24 (14 dmg), and 16 (13 dmg).
This message was last edited by the player at 03:49, Sat 03 Dec 2016.

"...alive it is then..."  Zuni muttered, her eyes narrowed as she readied her attack on Tarrov.  Selvin was faster though and he flashed past her to attack their former companion.  Using Selvin as a distraction, she quickly slipped around to get into a better flanking position.

"Hit him high and I'll go low!" Zuni shouted at Selvin.  She spun around, lashing out with her leg.

OOC:
Initiative -> 26
Acrobatics to 'get behind' Tarrov -> 18
Attack 1 -> 27
Damage [Non lethal] -> 5 (+6 Sneak Damage though I don't know if it applies depending on the result of the acrobatics roll)

Attack 2 -> 13
Damage ->3 [Non Lethal] (+3 Sneak)

Zuni and Selvin, the two of you land blows on Were-Tarrov.  He slices Zac back but doesn't pull his punch. 10 pts dam please

You can hear the sound of claws on the stone floor.  Were-Belgar the Dwarf is charging your way.

Izzick, as you prepare to act, you can see the mist cloud above beginning to descend.  And thicken.  It seems vaguely feminine in shape...

Izzick was prepared to attempt subduing the two weretigers when the mist finally began to fall down on him. He took a step back, changing his spell. The apparition wasn't something he really knew how to strike, so he tried to tried and true: Magic Missile - a barrage of 5 force bolts at the descending woman.

10:11, Today: Izzick rolled 17 using 5d4+5.  Magic Missile.

Selvin let out a growl of pain and frustration as Tarrov sliced in to him. He didn't want to hurt his friend, not really, but he knew he didn't have much time. He heard Belgar coming to join the fight as well, and the dwarf wouldn't be on his side. So he continued to try and bring him down non-lethally for the moment. He unleashed another flurry of fangs, claws and stinger against Tarrov, however, it was much less effective this time.

Hit AC 26 for 11 damage, the rest were 11 or less to hit.

Zuni braved a glance over at the charging Belgar and grimaced.  Could they handle two of these were tigers at the same time?  Didn't look like there was going to be much of a choice.

"Dammit Tarrov!  Go down!" she snarled at Tarrov, continuing to kick at him.  "We're trying to help you."

OOC:
Attacks -> 25 & 6
Damage -> 5 & 6
Sneak Damage -> 2 & 4

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 99):

The mist solidifies into a tiger woman just in time to be pelted by Izzick's lobs of glowing half-orcan fury. Ouch, She says as she makes a perfect landing on the floor. Quit it

Tarrov doesn't seem to understand that you're being cruel to be kind. He snarls and then makes a sound like a cat whose had his tail stepped on as he falls to the floor.

You look towards were-Belgar who is stopped in place. Seriously. He's just balancing on one toe. Chandanar Jenks as thumb athe him. Yeah. So I did the spell thing on him. You might wanna subdue him

The Baron and his sister in the adjoining room stand. Chandanar takes a rope out of his backpack. Hey. Why don't I don't the subduing and you guys handle the Arkonas. We all gotta play to our strengths, right?

Selvin let out a breath as Tarrov dropped. He spun towards Belgar but Chandanar was already on it and the dwarf was frozen in place. The words after made Selvin chuckle, however. "Oh, sure. You take the EASY job." Quick pause and then a glance. "Actually, you get any healin' you can hit me with real quick 'fore I jump back in?"

Then Selvin moved a bit and cast a spell, making sure they weren't all clumped together.


OOC: If there is no healing, then Selvin will heal Zac himself. If Chandanar CAN heal him, then Selvin will instead move a bit to catch Izzick in the spell range and cast Haste on himself, Izzick and Zuni.

Chandanar laid a quick 12 pts on you Selvin.  You guys are hasted.

The tension hangs in the air...

Init on my end is a 16...in case needed...

Selvin flashed Chandanar a quick appreciate glance after the spell before casting his own.

I also have a 16 initiative if we are re-rolling.

Zuni listened to Chandanars suggestion and she slowly turned to face the Baron.  Feeling the Haste spell wash over her, she tore off towards the Baron. "The Arkonas line ends here.  Today!" she snarled as she closed the distance and thrust her sword forward. Her blade struck out at the Baron thrice and then with her free hand, Zuni reached out to grab the Baron and try to tangle him up.

OOC:
Activating Challenge on the Baron.
Attacks -> 30 / 31 / 21
Damage -> 25 / 25 / 20 (Plus 2/2/3 sneak if applicable.  Not sure if the Baron counts as having acted or not)

Grapple attempt -> 27
This message was last edited by the player at 20:49, Thu 08 Dec 2016.

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 104):

Zuni's</Purpe> blade strikes the Baron twice. The blade scratches but does not quite seem to draw blood.  He sidesteps the third blow and then back hands her. Almost casually.  14 pts dam Zuni

Yawn, he says in an offhanded way.

The monk-formerly-known-as-mist-cloud looks at <Purple>Izzick and Chandanar.  And grins.

The third little sister picks up one of the jars and throws it towards Selvin.  It begins to explode in a firey burst...Dam 28 Selvin.  Reflex save vs DC 14 for half

Alrightie.  Let's go.  Oh, and Selvin, was the spell you were casting the Haste spell? Just want to make sure I didn't miss something.  Thanks.

Selvin saw the jar coming, and with the magical aid of the haste spell was able to get out of the way of it in time. It sailed past him and did no damage. He soared forward, charging in flight at the sister, hoping to keep the weretigers separated for the moment. But he planned to attack the Baron soon and help Zuni take him down quickly hopefully.

OOC: Yes, Haste was caste on Selvin, Izzick, Chandanar and Zuni. Lasts 8 rounds.
Haste is a +1 bonus on attack rolls, and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves, and an extra attack at your highest BAB if you full attack.

Reflex Save 16 and Evasion, so no damage.

Charging Hasted Power Attack on sister. Let me know if you need the electrical damage separately.
Hit AC 23 (16 dmg), 17 (11 dmg), 26 (20 dmg), 30 (11 dmg), 14 (15 dmg), 15 (13 dmg).
This message was last edited by the player at 19:39, Tue 13 Dec 2016.

As the tiger woman dropped near him, Izzick's hands quickly formed sigils to conjure rays of fire at her and set her aflame, taking a few steps back as he did.

14:40, Today: Izzick rolled 25 using 1d20+11.  Cast Defensively DC19.

Scorching Ray on the tiger woman
Ray 1: 14:42, Today: Izzick rolled 17 using 1d20+7.  Ray 1.
14:42, Today: Izzick rolled 7 using 4d6+1.

14:42, Today: Izzick rolled 8 using 1d20+7 ((1)).
WOMP WOMP

Not the best turn

The Baron takes a step and then grunts as blood begins to spurt from his shoulder. Sorry Zuni. Miscalculated the spell effect. Good hits

Jar Sister grabs something from her bodice as Selvin rips into her. She staggers backwards and brings a vial to her lips. Snout. Whatever.

Monk Sister turns and launches a blinding number of punches Chandanar's way. Your beloved Cleric makes and  DUHHHRF sound and flies backwards.

Ya'll are up. Thanks

Selvin grinned fiercely as he watched the womantiger stagger and have to drink a potion. He stepped up to follow her, electricity crackling around him, and unleashed another torrent of natural tiger-like attacks on her, magical and sparking.

OOC: Hit AC 14 (12 dmg), AC 14 (15 dmg), AC 21 (17 dmg), AC 19 (12 dmg), AC 26 (20 dmg), AC 20 (15 dmg).

Zuni did not hesitate and renewed her attacks on the Baron. She tried to grab hold of the Baron one more time.  Maybe, just maybe, she could.

OOC:
Attacks -> 19, 15, 16
Damage -> 25, 23, 26
Grapple -> 27

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 109):

Jar Sister makes a noise and crumpled to the ground.

The Baron finds himself wrapped in Zuni's sweet embrace. He returns her affection with a nibble on her neck. Well. A bite on her shoulder really...

9 pts dam Zuni

Izzick's incantation repeated, conjuring more rays of fire at the cat-woman who had attacked him.

5 ft step back and then cast Scorching Ray again

22:43, Today: Izzick rolled 19 using 1d20+7.  Ray 1.
22:44, Today: Izzick rolled 5 using 4d6+1.  Ray 1.
REALLY??????

22:43, Today: Izzick rolled 16 using 1d20+7.  Ray 2.
22:44, Today: Izzick rolled 11 using 4d6+1.  Ray 2.

These are touch attacks, so both might hit

In reply to Izzick (msg # 112):

Just for giving me the chuckle, I'm giving that 5 dam a boost up to 9.  Thanks.  I needed that.

Chandnar goes down as Monk Sister turns on you Izzick.  She takes the rays and smashes her fist into your sternum.  OOOOOOWWWW.  That one's gonna leave a mark 18 pts dam

Ya'lls go

Selvin saw that Zuni had grappled the Baron. He wasn't sure about charging in on that, especially with the other sister dropping Chandanar and hitting Izzick. That seemed like the more immediate threat. He charged in towards her from behind, unleashing a flurry of attacks both magical and electrical on her.

OOC: Charging power attack pounce on monk sister from behind.
Maybe a +2 further for flanking if possible with Izzick but didn't add it in.
Hit AC 21 (16 dmg), AC 29 (14 dmg), AC 29 (14 dmg), and maybe 14 (12 dmg) (guessing 12 misses).

Zuni kept a tight grip on the Baron as she rammed her sword into him.

OOC:
Maintain Grapple -> 26
Damage -> 33

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 114):

The Baron grunts as the sword pierces him.  He then leaps backwards, slamming Zuni against the wall.  14 pts dam Zuni

The Baron is panting and seems to mumble something under his breath.

Meanwhile...

You charge forward Selvin.  Monk Sister doesn't flinch from meeting you.  The two of you exchange a number of blows 24 pts dam.  You notice the electricity doesn't seem to be fazing her as much as all the pointy ends.

Izzick you notice the Jar Sister is standing back up...

Selvin staggered a step back with the returned onslaught of the monk-ish sister weretiger creature - and she didn't seem that affected by the electricity! His ally symbiote was starting to get very damaged and soon the damage would carry over in to Selvin. He attacked her one more time in a flurry and then figured he'd need to look at other options. "We need t'hurry this along, Iz!"

Zuni exhaled roughly as she was slammed against the wall.  She quickly spun around, sheathing her sword and drawing out the battle-axe.  It was not her best weapon but maybe it would do more damage to the Baron than her blade.  The weapon felt clumsy in her hand and she wished that she had more time to practice with the weapon before she tried to stick it into the Baron.

OOC:
Fighting defensively (+2 AC)
Attacks -> 24, 10, 12
Damage -> 16, 23, 22

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 117):

Izzick suddenly has a wand in his hand.  He shouts something...the word gets lost in the sounds of bodies being torn into pieces...and a gout of flame launches past Monk Sister, past Selvin, and into the Jar Sister.  He isn't fast enough though.  A jar arcs across the air landing at Selvin's feet.

A thick cloud of noxious smelling gas spews forth from the broken crockery.  Izzy and Selvin, please make Fort Save vs DC 16

Monk Sister seems as surprised as you.  She growls and shoots a dirty look in Jar's direction.  The distraction makes her miss more than strike 7 pts dam Selvin.

The Baron stumbles back as the first blow lands solidly into him Zuni.  He raises his arm and catches the haft of the axe on his wrist the second and third time, preventing the blade from biting him.  He swipes at you but you manage to step away.  He isn't looking too good.

Jar Sister is done for the mo.  Ya'lls go

Izzick begins to hack and cough uncontrollably as the acrid fumes fill his lungs. He stumbles, trying to find a way out of the cloud that has spewed forth into the room from somewhere.

13:52, Today: Izzick rolled 3 using 1d20+2 ((1)).

Zuni wasn't feeling all that steady on her own feet as she brought the axe to bear once more.  She swing the weapon at the Baron, yelling at him.  "Would you just go down already!"

OOC:
Fighting defensively (+2 AC)
Attacks -> 15, 20, 17
Damage -> 30, 21, 21

In reply to Izzick (msg # 120):

The Baron coughs up some blood and swipes again.  Zuni manages to stay out of his reach, but he returns the favor.

On the other side of the room, the cloud spreads outwards quickly.  It smells like a dwarf's underarm in summer.  Izzick, you feel your gorge rising, and it's only because of the strong stomach you developed during your necromantic apprenticeship that you manage to resist vomiting.  You try to get yourself under control.  You can make another Fort Save vs 18

Monk Sister leaps sideways, clearing the cloud.  She glances in the direction of her burning sister and growls.  Bitch.  Stop playing the fool and get up.  And if you target me again...

Ya'lls go. Selvin, you can post two rounds of action since you were waiting on me to respond.  Thanks
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:43, Tue 20 Dec 2016.

Selvin let out a grunt as monk-like sister attacked him once more. The symbiote was starting to look pretty ragged, but it helped him to resist the effects of whatever the noxious gas from the jar that landed near him. He blew out his breath and blew the gas away from him. He unleashed another flurry of natural attacks at the monk sister, hoping to put her down so they could try and finish up.

"I think we might need a new strategy soon."

Hit AC 19 (9 dmg, 3 electric dmg)
Hit AC 20 (9 dmg, 5 electric dmg)
Hit AC 21 (13 dmg, 3 electric dmg)
Hit AC 25 (11 dmg, 5 electric dmg)
Hit AC 22 (13 dmg, 6 electric dmg)

Selvin launched himself at the sister once more (monk sister, unless she went down, then at jar sister). Electricity crackled around him as he glowed blue with magic and otherworldly might.

Hit AC 21 (13 dmg, 3 electric), 28 (9 dmg, 5 electric), 15 (11 dmg, 5 electric), 20 (12 dmg, 3 electric), 25 (14 dmg, 6 electric)

Izzick continues coughing, trying to steady himself at the edge of the room, slowly recovering - but still a long ways from focusing on spells. He was rooting for the team in spirit though.

20:00, Today: Izzick rolled 14 using 1d20+2.  Fort Save.

If possible to get out of the cloud and cast, Izzick will attempt to fire a Ray of Exhaustion towards the Baron
DC18 Fort save or he's exhausted
20:06, Today: Izzick rolled 21 using 1d20+7.  Ray of Exhaustion.


That is, IF I can even cast it

Monk moves quickly, side stepping a few of Zac's slaps but not others. She manages to land a few blows herself 16 pts dam .

As she breaks away from you Selvin You notice she seems very unsteady on her feet. A last push might do it...

Izzick, You manage to finish your chant and fire off the ray before your gorge rises and dispels out self out of your mouth. Take a -2 penalty to your next three sets of actions. You'll be done up chucking now but you are still unsteady

Otherwise, ya'lls go

Selvin himself took the damage that time as it would have been enough damage to cause his ally Zac to disappear back to his home plane of existence. He let out a grunt and his skin bruised up in several places. He blinked and growled. "Iz! You good?"

He unleashed another flurry of blows on the monk-like sister. She was dangerous and starting to hurt him.

OOC: What a shitty round of rolls except one! lol!
Hit AC 16 (12 dmg & 4 electrical dmg)
Nat 20 (confirm Nat 1, sigh) (12 dmg & 4 electrical dmg)
AC 15 (11 dmg & 3 electrical dmg)

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 127):

Monk manages one last volley before succumbing 8 pts dam Selvin.  Monk is down

"Just...just about!" Izzick assured before he once more attempted his spell. He kept his spell a simple magic missile as he still felt less than up to par.

Magic Missile at the Baron
13:45, Today: Izzick rolled 18 using 5d4+5.

Zuni kept her eyes on the Baron in an intense glare.  She wanted this man dead, for the second time.  He was strong though, and she might not be able to take another hit from him.  The smart thing to do would be to fall back a few steps and down the last healing potion that she had in her belt pouch, but that would mean giving up the momentum and allowing the Baron a moment to recover. That wouldn't do.

Anticipating a counter attack, Zuni ducked to the side, changing out the clumsier axe for her dueling blade.  She was better with the blade.  If she could inflict enough damage to drop the Baron, then she could use the axe to finish him off.  The trick was to aim for the vital organs.

OOC:
Fighting Defensively (Her AC is now 24)
Attacks -> 20,16,13
Damage -> 20,22,26

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 130):

The Baron springs at you Zuni.  You can tell he's going to hit too.  His claws are already covered in your blood and his fangs are bared.  This is gonna hurt...

And then Izzick's glowing sphere thingie slams into the side of his head.  The Baron's eyes bulge out and his fanged maw becomes a perfect O of utter surprise as his brains get scrambled.  Your sword finishes the job in a moment.

The three of you look about.  None of the Arkonas are stirring.  Did you win?  Maybe you won the fight.  You probably did.  You should let your guard down.  Maybe take off all your armor and go to sleep.  It's sure to be fine.

Selvin and Zac were both wounded and breathing heavily. He thought about taking a moment for a healing spell on his symbiote, but wasn't sure Zuni could spare the time. He was keeping Zac on this plane by taking the damage himself at this point. He growled softly and flew in a charge towards the Baron, electricity streaking behind him.

OOC: Hit Ac 27 for 13 dmg and 3 electrical.
Hit AC 17 for 12 dmg and 1 electrical.
Hit AC 28 for 13 dmg and 6 electrical.
Hit Natural 20 confirmed with a 2nd Natural 20 for 23 dmg and 1 electrical.
Hit AC 15 for 11 dmg and 3 electrical (but I'm assuming that missed).
Missed AC 13.

In reply to Selvin Larst (msg # 132):

The Baron's body sort of arcs backwards and lays still.  He seems dead.  You can probably relax now.  Go to sleep.  It's okay now.  Really.

Selvin let out a long breath. Then he remembered how one of the sisters had gotten back after he dropped her. He turned to look at both of the sisters. If they were still down, he proceeded to cut the baron's head from the body.

"How do we keep 'em down?"

"Fire?"  Zuni replied, breathing heavily.  She winced and pressed a hand to one of the bites that the Baron had given her.  Had she ever bled so much in one day before this?  It was fast becoming a bad habit.

She slid her blade into its scabbard and hefted the axe.  "Or maybe we can use this.  Chop him up into little bitty pieces."

OOC:
What knowledge do we need to roll?

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 135):

I would say Arcana.  Nature with a higher DC.

Although, as experienced adventurers you know the answer.  You've already said it.  Light 'em up.

Let's get this weenie roasted.  We are within a stone's throw of finishing this book, so let's plow ahead.  I'll assume the customary looting is occurring...

You find no less than 12 sealed potion containers on their bodies.  Eight are deep purple, so you assume those will help tend your wounds.  Two of them are a milky, cloudy color.  One is as red as fresh blood and the last as black as a new moon evening.  One of the jars contains a mixture that smells sweet like honey and aloe.  There's enough in there for about 5 draughts of...whatever it does.

The Arkonas are wearing various bits of fine jewelry 1275 gp if anyone is counting.  The monk wears an amulet depicting two cobras encircling a mongoose.  The Baron's boots have odd runes etched into them.

He also has a key in one pocket.  You find a door hidden behind one of the curtains.  It's locked and the key probably fits into it...

I'll allow ya'll to process all that before we charge on.  By the by...what level is everyone?

Zuni assists with the looting of the bodies, taking what she can and stuffing it into her pack.  There wasn't much that she could do to identify strange liquids that they'd found, short of drinking them down and she had a few bottles of wine left that would probably taste much better.

The key she could deal with but first it would be best to tend to their wounds.  "I don't suppose that any of you know what these potions could be?"

Zuni is 8th level.

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 137):

Thanks.  That's what I thought.  Bump up to 9th please.

Anyone else who is 8th, you are now 9th.  Go ahead and update and we'll continue.  Thanks

Selvin let the others loot while he saw to the final destruction of each of the weretiger corpses. He hesitated over his former comrades and glanced at Izzick to see if there was anything that could be done for them.

Then he tried to sniff and gingerly examine (and sometimes taste) each of the potions and the jar to see if he could identify what each of their magical properties were.

Then he he checked on Chandanar and began to heal his symbiote.

19:14, Today: Selvin Larst rolled 11,14,24,15,27 using d20+9,d20+9,d20+9,d20+9,d20+9.  Spellcraft to Identify Potions (2 Milky, 1 Red, 1 Black, 1 Jar).
This message was last edited by the player at 02:17, Mon 09 Jan 2017.

Izzick aids in identifying the potions while the bodies burn in the pyre they constructed.

10:38, Today: Izzick rolled 53 using 5d20 with rolls of 11,6,13,11,12. +11 so:
22
17
24
22
23


With that task accomplished, he sits down for a much needed rest.

The two magicians consult over the potions...

The milky extract seems to be condensed aethereal vapors.  Probably the potion used by Monk to become all cloudified.

The red potion is refined stallion blood.  It should soup you up and get you moving quickly.

The black, tarry goo smells like aloe and garlic.  Probably a healing ointment for use treating diseased flesh.

The water in the jar is fresh and clean.  Nothing special about it.  However, when you tip it out of the jar, the jar somehow fills back up.

So you got 2 draughts gaseous form, 1 draught haste, and 1 cure disease.  The jar is just a source of fresh water.

Chandanar moans and says I can't go to lessons today Ma.  A dragon ate my homework  He stands and gets around to patching everyone up Everyone is all cured

Ragnar and Tarrov don't move.  Chandanar examines them and says I think I can break their curse.  But I'll need some time to meditate and get all...you know.  Holified.  Can we hang here for a bit while you guys play stump the door?

There's not much behind the door.  Just some guy who's bound and gagged.  He looks like he's seen better days, but you think he may be the Chamberlin you originally came here to find.  He opens his eyes and blinks at you.

Selvin took a drink from the jar of water. His eyes closed. "Mmmm. Okay. That's good." He and Izzick made short work of what the potions were that they'd found. "Not bad."

He chuckled and nodded at Chandanar. "No prob."

Upon opening the door, he moved in and begin slicing the bonds on the bound person. But he left the talking to the non-scary looking people.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 01:55, Wed 11 Jan 2017.

The Chamberlain rubs his neck and massages the areas of his wrist which are rope burned.  Thank you... he mutters.  Chandanar gives some water and basic first aid.  The Chamberlain sighs and looks at you all.  Well...you haven't killed me.  So you aren't with the Arkonas or Her Majesty the Dragon.  Who are you?

"I guess we're..."  Zuni starts to respond and pauses to glance around at her comrades.  "...an interesting third party.  Why were the Arkonas keeping you locked up in here?"

In reply to Zuni Runesong (msg # 144):



<Purple>Oh they had me in a much nicer room.  Still tied up and what not.  But the carpet was comfortable.  Then they said some 'tasty morsels' showed up and that I was being moved 'so as not to ruin the game'.  I assume you know what that means better than I do.

Anyway, I can only trust that you are not involved with Her Highness,</Aqua> he says that word with a sneer.  </Aqua>What is your interest?  Or better yet, are you for hire?  Times being what they are, I would be happy to have anyone who can mess up a lycanthrope on the payroll</Aqua>

Selvin stepped back as Zuni and the Chamberlain spoke. He looked around to make sure there was no danger in the room that could be spied. But mostly he kept his eyes on the person that they'd just freed, with his eyes occasionally shifting to Zuni.

"We should go. Who knows what else may still try t'kill us here."

"Agreed. Selvin, grab the potions. And Chandanar, perhaps you could make sure you take care of my...lovely lovely arranged marriage as well." He lifted his hand up to display the ring, as they prepared to move out, though even thinking of the hell hole they were in, he began to wonder, "Do we really have a safe place to go? The city isn't exactly in the nicest of places right now."

In reply to Izzick (msg # 147):

Deeeeeeep breath.  Crack the knuckles.  And away we go

Well funny you should mention that, says the Chamberlain, standing with the difficulty of a man who's been bound for who knows how long.  I may have an idea of where you could go-

Hey Buddy!  Don't get ugly now! Chandanar says.

Moving right along... says the Chamberlain.  That door you found leads to a stairwell heading up to a gazebo not far from the mansion.  It's how they brought me down.  As we walk up, let me tell you a little story-

Chandanar groans.  Never in the history of mankind has any story that started off as 'Let me tell you a little story' been an actual little story

Are you sure you didn't want to let the Arkonas eat him?  Anyway, as you may know I serve...served...our late King as Chamberlain.  I served the family for years and I was actually one of those who helped arrange his marriage to the current Queen.  I know how that sounds.  At the time it was a good match.  It helped seal a valuable alliance with certain powerful Chelaxian nobility, and kept managed to weaken some of the support the Asmodian Church was...well.  Anyway.  There were definite benefits to the match.

And believe it or not, at first, her Highness wasn't a bad sort.  For a Chelaxian.  She was the typical pampered princess sort.  But she did seem to have a soft spot for the King.  And in time, she seemed to want more and more of his attention.  I think she was coming to care for him.

Now, I need to digress.  History lesson.  Did you know that the land this city was built on was once territory of the Ashlander tribes?  No?  Well it was.  In fact it was considered sacred ground.  The Ashlanders actually had a stone temple built here.  When the founders of the city conquered the area, they seized that temple.  It was actually quite well built.  And so they decided that instead of tearing it down, they would renovate it.  Can you guess what it was turned into?  Anyone?  You all must give him a 'shut the hell up' look, because he scratches his cheek, shrugs, and continues.  Yes.  Well.  The top portion of it was redone into the Palace.  The foundation was left intact.  And it's been that way for all this time.

Now.  Back to the present.  About a year ago, we started to expand the wine cellars.  During the work, we came across a section of the old temple we hadn't known about before.  We were going to seal the section off and have the mages look into it.  I mean, we are mindful of these things you know.  But...  He stops climbing the stairs, sighs for effect, and shakes his head as sadly as if he was expecting the audience to draw a baited breath.

Chandanar rolls his eyes and puts a hand to his ear.  Listen...Crickets...

The Chamerlain shoots him a look and turns back up the steps.  Yes.  Well.  There was an incident about this time.  A silly affair.  Well.  Perhaps a bad choice of words.  The King decided to have his portrait done.  And the artists selected was a beautiful young woman by the name of Trina Ogatz

The image of chasing a young blond woman across a rooftop crosses your mind Selvin  You look over and see Tarrov looking back at you.  Under Chandanar's care, the bard is looking better.

Trina is a young woman this party had saved from being executed by the Queen a few weeks ago.  She was smuggled outside of the City by your missing ally Vencarlo.

The Chamberlain continues climbing the steps with you.  The King and she did not have an affair.  Not that it was out of the question.  Our Lord King was a healthy sort of man.  But this seemed to be more of a doting father type of relationship that sprung up. That didn't stop people from talking though.  Word soon reached the Queen.  And she became jealous.

There was a scene.  The Queen ran off and actually managed to lose her guard.  We all went searching for her.  I recalled she had shown some interest in the discovered temple area and wondered if she might have run off there to hide.  So I went to look there.

The guard that we had placed to block off the area were missing.  I never did discover what happened to them.  I proceeded a bit further and found a section of the wall had been swung open.  Some kind of hidden door we had missed when we first explored the area.  There was a light and an odd sort of dead-fish smell.  I took a peek.

You may or may not believe what I saw.  I'm still not sure I do.  There was a small chamber beyond the wall.  The floor and walls and ceiling were covered in runes.  Runes of a type I've never seen before.  In the middle of the room was a pedestal upon which was what looked to be the skull of a dragon.  The skull sort of glowed and the Queen stood before it, staring at it like a child staring at the first firefly she's ever seen.  We both just stood there for what seemed like ages.  Then she turned and looked at me.  I'll never forget it.  She seemed like one possessed.  There was a definite change to the look in her eyes.  She seemed...harder.  More mature.  And determined.  She said something to me, thanking me for finding her and saying she had gotten lost.  After that day, her personality changed.  She became more aggressive.  And biting.

Well to make a long story short-

Too late
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:35, Sat 14 Jan 2017.

In reply to The Dealer (msg # 148):

Yes.  Well to make a long story SHORTER I made some inquires about the temple and the dragon skull.  But events moved faster than I thought they would.  The Queen began making plays at Court.  She soon built up a faction and the King became more and more ill.  I don't doubt that she poisoned him.  But I have no proof.  But more than that I think the Queen has become possessed.  Something happened in that room before I got there.  I know not what.  Whatever happened bodes ill for Korvosa.

I think we need to know what we are up against.  And the only ones I can think of who might know would be the Ashlanders.  They built that temple. Perhaps some stories about what was housed there exist still amongst them.  I was unable to gain their trust when they were here.  And I fear the Queen means to launch an assault against them.  Someone needs to reach out to the Ashlanders, not only to gain their knowledge but to warn them of the Queen's ambitions.  And hopefully convince them not to attack Korvosa while we are in this weakened state.

Now, when we return to the surface-

I'm sorry.  But we've been up on the surface for like ages.  I've had time to boil water, make tea, and serve pimento and tomato sandwiches.  Want another one?  Chandanar passes the plate around.  So we just wander out into the Ashlands, find some old guy of one of the Clans who can tell us what's going on, and bring back the intel. Right?  You see how I said that in like three or four sentences?

Snarkery aside,Chandanar has hit upon it  Tarrov rises unsteadily, wiping pimento crumbs off his chin.  I think we need to split our forces.  Someone needs to stay here.  To try to rally support and build a force to work against the Queen.  I think my gifts are better suited to that.  Selvin.  Old friend.  It feels like years since you and I and those others went after Lamm.  I never thought it would end us up here.  As rebels. But I think our time to travel together has come to an end.  He turns to the half orc.  Izzick.  You are a wise man.  Your strength has saved us on so many occasions now.  I hope you will continue to watch over everyone for me.  He turns to the swordswoman.  Zuni.  We haven't been companions long.  But I know with you watching their backs, no mission is out of reach.

Tarrov puts a hand on Chandanar's shoulder.  Chandanar looks back at him.  Tarrov pats his shoulder and looks at the rest of you.  Why don't you take him with you?

The Bard sighs and chuckles.  Friends.  Please.  I ask you as simply as I can.  Go forth and find this information.  Help me save Korvosa.  It is our home.

Zuni took a long sip from one of the bottle of wine that she had taken from the Arkonas estate.  Only a short time ago she was going to toss it at giant hornets and light them on fire but this was a much more pleasant way to expend the bottles contents.  She looked over at Selvin and Izzick, taking some time to consider her answer.

 "Okay.  I'm in.  It's not like I was doing anything grand for the rebels anyways and some time outside of Korvosa might do some good."

From being found in a necromancer's hovel to being the savior of the city - much had happened in the few weeks that Izzick knew the rest, but he nodded at the task. "The Acadamae better be kissing my damned green ass begging for me to come back after all this," he said, thinking back to his sorcerous expulsion from the wizard academy.

Selvin frowned as he listened and his eyes shifted to Chandanar a few times as the man kept piping up during the story. After it was all done, Zuni and Izzick spoke up as well. Finally, Selvin spoke. "So. The Queen's likely possessed. That makes sense." He let out a small sigh but shrugged. "Man. It feels like we've been runnin' around non-stop for weeks on end since Lamm." There was a small pause and the cat-like but stingered tail swished back and forth. "I'll help."

Zuni looked over at Selvin.  His words about Lamm suddenly interested her.  Looking like she was stumbling for the right words to say what she was feeling, Zuni took a moment before asking him what she was partially dreading hearing.  "What...what did you guys have to do with...with Lamm?"

Selvin slowly turned to look at Zuni. He kept his tone as flat as he could but there was a hint of faded anger or hatred in it. His lips twisted a bit in a frown. "We killed him."

Zuni looked at Selvin for a long moment, her expression impassive.  "I'd heard that he was killed.  Only sorry that I couldn't do it myself but I didn't think that I...I guess I should thank you all then.  Gaedren Lamm was a monster."

Selvin let out a long breath and looked down. After a moment he finally gave a nod. "That he was." He looked back up at Zuni and shrugged slightly. "I'd say killin' isn't somethin' t'get used to, but death an' combat seem t'follow me around like an old frien' or lover."

He turned away and began to walk away, muttering something unintelligible.