CHAPTER 15
Nekria, Drynn

Recap of the General Disposition of Drynn

• The bulk of the Serpentsworn Army was last seen besieging the port city of Imbraer, which is nearly 500 miles to the north. This city is the de-facto capital of Morachiga's New Dominion, and is being defended by a mixture of local troops and an influx of Heartseekers.

• Lord Morachiga Choso, Sir Ravn Culley, and Rachel are among the rearguard of the tyrant's forces, and have yet to enter the city.

• Foist and a collection of siege engineers have infiltrated Nekria and are setting up shop in a nearby warehouse.

• Fluffums is presumed dead. Lyriel is also missing, far as the P.A.R.T.Y. knows.

Recap of the General Disposition of Everywhere Else

• The Emerald Champion of Tassada has consolidated control of Hae'driel, which is now in an uneasy state of de-facto rebellion against the Shining Empire.

• Lo'driel is being governed by a triumvirate comprised of Selena (high priestess, Ma'or), Knight-Captain Edrahil (Zuriel's father), and Captain Ryze (Imperial Warden).

• In actuality, Lyriel is wandering the Hells looking for the demon who has imprisoned the soul of every Vesper to have ever served Tassada, including her brother's.

• Ka has gained entry into Hell and his forces are ostensibly waging war against Kazul and the other powers of that realm.

• Kordica's forces have been largely routed and have not been seen abroad in any significant capacity.

• Gaelia's navy is keeping the oceans safe for their own merchant ships, but have stayed out of the war as yet. Ground forces under General Hassan are mobilizing the deal with an increasingly violent slave revolt that is threatening the Sultan's peace.

• Darris's last-known location was lurking in his self-made paradise, which is populated by "freed" slaves.

• The location of most other named PCs (A'tril, Mah'mout, Ptolemy, Cassie, etc.) is unknown.

Local Disposition

The embattled capital of Drynn is current being besieged by three armies: the Glass Tyrant's, the Matron's, and King Prak's. The tyrant's forces have breached the southern gate and are engaged in active combat with the city's defenders. To the north, King Prak's forces have begun to actively batter at the gates, but have yet to gain access. The Matron's forces have split to assault both the north and the south, but they have yet to enter the city on either side.

P.A.R.T.Y. Disposition

Boreas, Keef, Maeve, and Auriel are all gathered about 100 feet from the finely wrought iron gateway that isolates the Serpentsworn Cathedral from the rest of Nekria.

Carnaue, Maeve's griffin, and her pet cleric are also on-hand, though the former looks far from happy and the latter looks petrified. The griffin just looks hungry.

The cathedral itself is difficult to make out in any great detail from this side of the gates, though you can tell that it is a vast, towering structure that's as much a fortress as it is a church (Akin to this, but not dilapidated: http://www.wallpaperup.com/upl...a4cd67da8227b5d4.jpg).

The courtyard forms a spacious barrier with a radius of about 100 yards between the cathedral and the iron gate, making crossing the gap quickly rather difficult. A paved walkway leads around the grounds and from the gate to the front doorstep, while the rest of the courtyard is lush with indigenous swamp grasses, reeds, and stunted trees. Trios of Serpentsworn patrol the grounds, mostly armed with shields, maces, swords, clubs, and staves.

Keef's fire continues to blaze in one of the upper-tier windows, while at the very top of the structure, the enormous bells continue to unleash thunderous peals at a regular cadence.

The symbol of Kazul is prominently featured on the wrought-iron gate, but there does not appear to be a sentry on duty.

[Crossroads]
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:55, Fri 09 Oct 2015.

"The Iron Cathedral," Auriel said solemnly. "Too long has it cast its oppressive shadow on the world. If we are to right the wrongs of the past, let us start here, and tear down this hateful structure."

The Celestial cast his gaze far upward at the imposing temple, wings ruffling in anticipation. "Beginning with that thrice-damned bell."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:48, Wed 07 Oct 2015.

"Right," Maeve says, staring up at the bell, which continues to let out a BWAAAAAAAAAAANNNNNNNNNNNN on a regular basis.  "If Boreas could get up there, he might be able to take it out."

At that point, Maeve notices the cleric once again, and peels her passenger's fingers gently out of their death grip.

"I don't ask you to continue with us further than this.  It's just going to get worse from here on out."

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 3):

Keef shrugs at the cathedral.

It needs to be torn down to make space.

In reply to Keef (msg # 4):

"The bell?" Carnaue  responds silkily. "Or the whole cathedral?"

In reply to DM (msg # 5):

Aye... all of it.

Well, the bell seems like a good place to start.

[Casting Fey Flight]

Boreas flies straight up until he is level with the bell.  He examines it and the structure surrounding it.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 7):

On the Ground

"I... yes," the cleric stammers, gaping at the looming cathedral standing fast against the darkening skies. "Yes, that would be for the best. But... but I can help you first."

She utters words of power, and goes from person to person until everyone is healed. Fortunately the group had sustained little overall damage, but the process still seems to leave the her pale and drained.

"Good luck," she says with a nod. "I'll let the others know where you are and what you're doing."

***

In the Sky

The air is choked with smoke and ashes from the fire raging through the city's northwestern quadrant, which makes Boreas's first unaided flight altogether less pleasant than he'd have preferred.

Traveling straight up, Boreas does not cross the threshold of the cathedral proper, and from 100 yards out it is difficult to make out any fine details. Boreas can, however, see that the pinnacle of central spire of the cathedral appears to house a single enormous bell, though he cannot see how it is being operated from your current location. As the range of Detect Magic is only 60 feet, he cannot tell if it is magical, either.

Below, Boreas can see that the cathedral's circular courtyard extends in all directions with a radius of 100 yards, and looks like it probably serves as Nekria's central park when the city is not at war. There are paved walkways, manicured lawns (of swampgrass, but still), and plenty of benches and statues scattered throughout.

At least two-score people occupy the grounds -- none of whom appear to be civilians. They patrol the area in groups of 3s and 4s, and do not appear to have noticed the P.A.R.T.Y. as yet. This is likely in part thanks to the fire. They do look alert, though... and you can blame the fire for that, as well.

Boreas flies toward the spire to get a closer look.  He is, of course, invisible.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 9):

Auriel begins to take wing, but Carnaue puts a hand on his shoulder to stop him.

"Perhaps we leave this one to the invisible among us, aye?"

***

Boreas, shrouded in light-bending magic, slips across the courtyard by air and arrives at the bell tower spire without incident.

The belfry itself is comparatively large, with ornate stonework visible around the perimeter. Boreas can see no guards or bell-ringers, but does note that there are several grotesque gargoyles among the carvings and other ornamentation. The bell itself is an enormous piece that appears to measure roughly 8 feet tall and 10 feet in diameter. Four quarter bells are placed around it, though they do not seem to be ringing at all.

Boreas watches at the bell tolls again, its regular cadence continuing unabated despite the active observation. There does not appear to be a pull rope, so the mechanism for the ringing remains a mystery for now.

Of specific note:

• The largest bell carries a distinct magical aura.
• The bell can be viewed through glass-less stone arches, which rest in the center of each of the belfry's four sides.
• The belfry is quite large, measuring about 25x25
• There is probably a door or passage somewhere, but Boreas cannot see it without getting even closer
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:33, Fri 16 Oct 2015.

Boreas looks to see what is attaching the bell to the surrounding structure.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 11):

The bells appear to be fastened to the stonework by a combination of ropes and iron brackets. None of which are magical.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:56, Mon 19 Oct 2015.

In reply to DM (msg # 12):

Keef squints to see where the flying/invisible ranger went to.

For some reason his thoughts turn to magical brackets and the possible applications thereof.

Chubbs croaks loudly.

Keef nods, Indeed.  Most likely, they'd fetch a fine price with fantasy sports fans.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:22, Mon 19 Oct 2015.

Boreas starts circling the tower, shattering brackets as he goes.

[Casting Baleful Utterance]

He moves after each loud burst to disguise his position.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 14):

The shattered brackets eventually weaken enough to cause the bell to fall, slamming onto the floor of the belfry with a horrible clang and clatter. The eerie silence that follows is almost worse than the constant cadence Boreas just put to an end... or did he?

If he listens carefully, Boreas can still hear the regular gong-like tones emanating from the largest bell, but they are greatly muffled by the bell's current position and likely cannot be heard at all from beyond the belfry itself.

Two cloaked men quickly appear in the belfry, climbing up from a trapdoor set into the flooring. They look at the bell in alarm, and scratch their heads as they set about the task of inspecting the brackets.

In reply to DM (msg # 15):

Keef takes a seat to wait while people mess with their fantasy brackets.

Chubbs croaks.

This DOES seem familiar... Keef agrees.

Somewhere in the melee and fire, a deceased horse is being flogged.

In reply to Keef (msg # 16):

Carnaue narrows his good eye at the reverberation of the crashing bell.

"Was the point to let the entire city know we were here first, prior to going inside? Between that and the fireball, I cannot imagine there is any element of surprise remaining to us, despite the fire and the battle at the gates."

In reply to DM (msg # 17):

Keef shrugs.

Surprise wasn't the goal.  Destruction is.

Keef squints at Chubbs.

But I'm no tactician.

In reply to Keef (msg # 18):

"You can't destroy anything if you're dead," Carnaue says, exasperated. "If you're going to be this reckless throughout, I'm not sure I want to be anywhere near this place... or any of you..."

He glances around, as if gauging his options.

Boreas floats back down.

Pretty sure the city is aware we're here anyway.  And the guards have... bigger problems.  He gestures in the general direction of King Prak's forces.

Let's do what we came here to do.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 20):

Keef only shrugs.

In reply to Keef (msg # 21):

"We came here to infiltrate the cathedral," Carnaue says, stressing the fifth word with a glance at Keef. "Your actions probably did draw some of the defenders to the top of the structure, all things considered, so a ground-floor entry may be best."

He points to the gate and the courtyard beyond it.

"We merely need to work our way through the gate, across the courtyard, and past the front door. The grounds are patrolled by knots of Serpentsworn, as you have seen, so we are likely to be seen unless we get more creative. Unless we simply don't care if we're seen, of course."

He looks at the rest of the P.A.R.T.Y., eye settling on Boreas.

"You're probably our best bet, depending on how often you can do your shifting spell. If you can take us one at a time past the front door -- even if it takes a series of jumps -- we can secure the foyer and go from there once everyone has been brought across. I'm open to other ideas, of course, if someone has another plan."

Shouldn't be a problem.  Who's the lucky volunteer?

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 23):

Keef raises one hand.

Chubbs chortles.

In reply to Keef (msg # 24):

Carnaue begins to object, then pauses, smiles, and shakes his head.

"I'm fine with that."

Alright, get ready and I'll take you in.

[Casting Walk Unseen]

Boreas waits for Keef to cast whatever he wants in preparation, then casts Fey Step to teleport both people to the appointed area.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 26):

Outside

Keef buffs himself up, and then the pair of casters disappear.

Inside

Keef and Boreas materialize in a spacious, ornate foyer that is resplendently decorated with a kind of casual opulence clearly designed to impress and awe any who enter. The room is 30x30, and has an arched double-doorway to the north, east, south, and west. The main entrance door leading outside to the courtyard is to your south, and both the northern and southern doorways are closed.

There are no doors at all to the east and to the west, and gazing down each passage you can see a long, richly carpeted hallway of polished marble extend in either direction.

Miraculously, you appear to be alone. For now.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:49, Thu 29 Oct 2015.

In reply to DM (msg # 27):

The sound of echoing footsteps can be heard reverberating from the hallways on either side. To the north, the door muffles the sound of what might be chanting, singing, and music of some kind.

By the time Boreas has finished transferring everyone else to the lobby, the sound of footsteps from the east and the west is unmistakable, and even accompanied by hushed voices talking.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:35, Fri 30 Oct 2015.

Auriel gestured to the eastern passageway, but made no motion to move, lest the clanking of plate armor give away their position. "Any way you can tell us what we're dealing with, Carn?"

In reply to Auriel (msg # 29):

"Serpentsworn," he rasps. "But I can confirm that, sure."

Carnaue slips away to the east.

He returns rather quickly.

"They are incense bearers, doing what appears to be a regular sweep in accordance to their traditions. I do not know if they will reach the lobby or double back."
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:31, Fri 30 Oct 2015.

In reply to DM (msg # 30):

Keef begins to move his hands in small circles and chant quielty.

/OOC unless interrupted.

There.  Now I'll know if they come into this room behind us.

[Private to DM: /OOC:  Cast Alarm in center of room.  Mental ping]

In reply to Keef (msg # 31):

~~ Disposition ~~

The P.A.R.T.Y. finds itself standing in the cathedral's ornate lobby, faced with several options on where to go next.

To the EAST: A long hallway stretches dozens of feet before turning a corner to the north. Footsteps and voices echo from this direction, which Carnaue has said belong to a group of acolytes bearing incense. There is no door at this exit from the lobby.

To the WEST: A long hallway stretches dozens of feed before turning a corner to the north. Footsteps and voices echo from this direction, but their source is unknown. There is no door at this exit from the lobby.

To the SOUTH: The cathedral's large double doors, which lead outside to the courtyard. These doors are closed but not barred.

To the NORTH: Another set of large double doors leading to parts unknown. Voices and music can be heard from this direction, though they are muffled.

~~ Decision Points ~~



Crossroad
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:42, Tue 03 Nov 2015.

I vote 3, easy on the violence

Auriel cocked his head to the side, listening to the sound of music and singing emanating from behind the closed doors. "I, for one, am growing tired of sneaking around while other die on my behalf. The quickest way to end this siege, to end the loss of life, is to decapitate the head of the snake, once can for all."

The Celestial drew his sword. "Figuratively if possible, literally if we must. Let's cast this building down stone by stone."

Barring any objections, Auriel makes ready to kick open the doors to the inner cathedral.

"Aye.  Let's do this," Maeve says, bracing herself for a grand entrance.

[Option 3!]

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 35):

...and then burn the stones...

Option 3 is Boreas approved!

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 37):

Carnanue shakes his head as the P.A.R.T.Y.'s course of action becomes clear.

"A direct assault without any intelligence on the room is a fool's errand," he growls. "I have not lived this long by taking unnecessary risks. I do not intend to start today."

Carnaue glances down the western hallway and motions in that direction.

"I will scout ahead and meet up with you deeper in the complex... if you survive that long. Godspeed."

With that, the powerful Felar dissolves into the shadows and -- so far as your eyes and ears are concerned -- vanishes completely.

The remaining P.A.R.T.Y. members look at each other, then shrug and bash down the northern door.

The door splinters inward to reveal a spacious worship area large enough for thousands of people. The aisle before you continues past row after row of stone-hewn pews, all facing forward toward a central altar placed before an enormous dragon statue that looks to be made of pure gold.

Additional rows of aisles face the altar from its east and west, and though there does not appear to be seating to the north (behind the statue and the altar), there does appear to be a series of murals, statues, and stained glass in that area.

Incense chokes the air in an almost visible abundance, and strange music is being played from somewhere in the mezzanine above you.

Though the room has the capacity for thousands, it is currently only occupied by dozens -- perhaps four-score figures crowded among the very front rows of pews. They are dressed similarly, wearing richly appointed vestments inscribed with the mark of Kazul.

All are standing. All are singing. All have their eyes locked on a figure seated in an enormous, throne-like chair set just slightly below the pedestal on which the draconic altar and statue rest.

The figure, however, is not singing. It is looking directly at the P.A.R.T.Y., and a smile graces its features after the initial surprise wears off. He holds up a hand as if gesturing for you to wait, then raises his voice in song as he rises to his feet.

The singing continues but a moment longer before reaching its conclusion, at which point the figure begins to speak with outstretched hands.

"Broodlings and clutchmates," he intones reverently. "You have lifted up your voices, prayers, and offerings to the most high, and the Dragon has heard your plea. He has sent us one of his only children, who suffered, died, and was left for dead in the fetid swamps beyond our walls."

The lighting in the room is such that the speaker's features are resplendently amplified -- though the lavish vestments do not hurt. He is certainly humanoid, but also bears a sort of reptilian countenance with strange ridges and scales on his face and head in place of hair.

"Power... true power... cannot be conferred by a piece of paper. Or by a government official. It must be earned, and it must be held. If you lack the strength to back up your claim, you never deserved it."

"Thus it is folly to ask for the Dragon to further defend this city, for if we cannot defend ourselves, we are not worthy of the Dragon's aid. I tell you, we have seen the tidings for ourselves. The gates of Nekria have been damaged. Our very cathedral has been damaged. And a dragon -- a Child of the Drake -- has been slain this day."

A murmuring fills the congregation, only to be silenced with a gesture.

"The races of this world have proved themselves to be too weak to carry out the Dragon's will. Even the mighty Saul was laid low by frail and fragile humanoids who dared reach for the sun with their bare hands. Who dared to endure the blistering pain for a chance at glory. At victory. At mastering their enemies."

"On that day, the Dragon bade me enter this world myself. To take upon my shoulders the mantle of my counterpart, who had failed us both. I was there when Lord Saul the Fallen fell. Indeed, my emergence finished the job! And, my friends... they were there, as well."

He points directly at the P.A.R.T.Y. at this moment, and the congregation whirls as one.

"Welcome to the Serpentsworn Cathedral," he intones. "Have you come to leave your tithe to the Dragon... or, perhaps, to finish what you started in the churning waters of the River Gullet?"

[Private to Auriel: Your eyes hurt. Your body hurts. Your soul hurts. This is an evil outsider, and a very strong one.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:30, Thu 05 Nov 2015.

Auriel sank into a defensive stance, golden energy crackling along his shield while the final echoes of the hymn to Kazul faded away in the corners of the vaulted cathedral. Lady willing, it would be the last ever sung.

He narrowed his eyes at the resplendant figure addressing them. To his Celestial senses, the sulfuric tang of the Hells was almost overpowering.

Overpowering, and familiar.

"So, Kazul sent his mirror in place of his failed servant. And you even managed to escape the deck of that sinking ship. How efficient. Clever, even. But ultimately useless. Your city burns, your dragon rots, and your people die needlessly."

He raised his voice, booming loudly throughout the otherwise silent space. "Leave, all of you. This building will collapse, and this city will be reclaimed. Your god is unable - and unwilling - to protect you. See to your own safety, and live another day."

Auriel pointed Dawn at Kazul's lieutenant. The sword burst into blindingly radiant light.

[Infernalbane Sword]

"Shall we test our strengths, one last time?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:36, Thu 05 Nov 2015.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 39):

The congregation murmurs, and about a score turn to flee from what they presume will be an ensuing conflict. Eight are immediately struck down by their nearest allies with blocks from behind amid cries of COWARD and TRAITOR, but the remaining half-dozen escape to rush closer to the P.A.R.T.Y. (and the exits behind you).

"The Dragon's apathy over this matter should not be mistaken for impotence," the figure says grandly. "For instance..."

The figure utters a few profane words, and dark energies swirl around each of the half-dozen who had escaped the congregation in an attempt flee. They fall to their knees, shrieking and holding their heads in anguish.

Then they begin to change.

Their skin thickens, their faces become leathery, wrinkled, and rounded, and their limbs become stubbier even as their torsos lengthen. A trunk-like appendage sprouts from their nose, and their ears lengthen like those of a jackrabbit. Their bellies become swollen and distended, and their body groans as it is stretched to nearly nine feet tall. A pair of crimson tusks curve outward from each, reaching five feet from their mouth, and though their arms have become coiled with muscle, their fingers appear blunt and stubby.

These changes take place almost instantaneously. In moments, each of the kneeling figures has similar transfigured, and the creatures stare at the P.A.R.T.Y. with bulging violet eyes filled with range and malice.

[Private to Auriel: They now register as evil outsiders, though less evil than their master.]

"Those among us who are chattel but did not attempt to flee may return to their usual duties. Go. Secure the grounds, the parapets, and the rest of the cathedral, and search for any other heretics while you're at it."

Most of the congregation moves backward, away from the altar and the aisle to distance themselves from the fight, though ten resolute figures remain behind.

"I rather like this cathedral," the figure continues. "And unlike others I might name... I have the strength to defend it. Yield to my power, Celestial. The odds are not in your favor. Leave, and you may live to die another day."

He motions to the congregation around him as though to demonstrate his point, and allows himself a victorious smirk.

~~ Disposition ~~

This room is enormous (think about the interior of a medieval basilica), and currently contains:

• 56 clerics, priests, servants, acolytes, and neophyte mooks who have been dismissed but are still in the room at the moment
• 10 of the the above with class levels of some kind
• 6 of the transfigured creatures
• 8 lifeless corpses that are totally unlikely to rise again
• 1 unnamed named NPC

~~ Decision Point ~~

1) Fight!
2) Flight!
3) Other (or "I need more information"; post to the OOC or PM me if this is the case)

CROSSROADS
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:14, Tue 10 Nov 2015.

Auriel winced as he felt the life fade from the fleeing worshippers. If he had any remaining doubts about their decision to end the Kazulian cult, they vanished with screams of the transformed beasts.

"So Keef," Auriel said, "do you remember all the times we discussed collateral damage, minimizing property damage, or worrying about the aftereffects of dangerous magics?"

His face hardened into a steel mask. "Forget all of that. Let's bring this Cathedral down."

[OOC - FIGHT]

The Celestial pointed out the speaker and the transfigured creatures. "Have a care. These are all Hellspawn."

You're not going to turn into a snake are you?  You know that never works out.

[Casting Walk Unseen]

Boreas flickers away, preparing to fight.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 42):

Keef nods.

You shouldn't have sent the dragon, he says to the mysterious figure in a voice he is clearly struggling to keep even.  He shouldn't have died.

FIIIIIIIIIIIGHHHHTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 44):

The P.A.R.T.Y. carefully appraises its options, and it soon becomes clear that battle will be joined. The 50-odd mooks rush to clear out of the area, leaving behind a still-impressive collection of enemies.





The figure shrugs out his bulky robes, revealing a muscular body, a scaly hide, and two wicked-looking swords which he draws with a flourish. The air around them shimmers with a sickly yellow light that you're certain can't mean anything good. He then utters a few choice phrases and smiles.

[Casting: Unholy Aura]

An orb of darkness surrounds his form and that of his closest officers, providing a measure of protection.



"Very well, then," the figure sneers, pointing to the P.A.R.T.Y. with one of his blades. "Kill them."
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:31, Tue 10 Nov 2015.

Boreas' gem glows, and icy kelp springs from the ground under the Mirror and his minions.

Strands lash out at all of the foes within reach. Though they bounce off the sphere protecting the Mirror (failed touch attack), they start to coil around the officers surrounding him.  Officer J manages to free himself from their grip (natural 20), but the others are entangled, struggling under the constricting strands.

[Casting Arctic Grasp]

[Officers D, I, H, and G are grappled.  The area is difficult terrain, and everyone who starts their turn in it takes 2d6 cold damage.]

Auriel pointed to the Mirror and uttered a few words in Celestial.

[Glyph of Challenge]

[Each time a marked creature casts a damaging or disabling spell, or makes an attack that does not include Auriel, it receives 1d6 damage. If that attack succeeds in damaging or disabling any targets, that damage increases to 1d8 per target affected.]

The paladin launched himself the air, preparing to vault over the heads of the Serpentsworn but unable to close such a distance immediately.

As he flew, the air around him began to shimmer. Through watering eyes, the ghostly shape of a longsword materialized next to him.

[Divine Retaliation: The conjured longsword will automatically retaliate against each melee attack made to Auriel. Attacks at +13, deals 1d8 + 9 damage]

[35 Temporary HP remaining]
This message was last edited by the player at 19:28, Wed 11 Nov 2015.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 47):

The betrunked hellspawn trumpet as one, their ridiculous appearance belaying an ominous power even as they shamble into place. Each heavy footstep causes their bulging eyes to pulse and swell painfully within their skulls, but their expressions are deadly serious.

Several of them raise their trunks, brace their legs shoulder-length apart, and spew forth a scalding mist that threatens to sear the flesh from your bones. Well, some of your bones, at least. The attacks are sloppy and haphazard at best; perhaps mist isn't as accurate as you've been led to believe.

[Hellspawn A vs Reflex DC 18 (Boreas, Maeve): 28, 17 ]
[Hellspawn C vs Reflex DC 18 (Maeve, Keef): 29, 14]
[Hellspawn D vs Reflex DC 18 (Boreas, Maeve, Keef): 26, 12, 14]
[Hellspawn E vs Reflex DC 18 (Maeve): 21]
[Hellspawn F vs Reflex DC 18 (Auriel): 11]

The mist deals significant damage, but the P.A.R.T.Y. notes that toward the end of each blast little puffs seemed to choke out of each trunk... likely they will not be able to do that again without building up more pressure first.

[Total Damage (Boreas, Maeve, Keef, Auriel): 18, 56, 34, 21]

Hellspawn B assumes a more defensive position and readies an action.

In reply to DM (msg # 48):

The mist causes Keef to yelp in pain.  Chubbs croaks dejectedly.

The hellspawn HE's fought had far hotter nose mist.

Keef waves his hands and a roaring barrier of flames bursts from the floors, singing the edge of the kelp and bathing the officers in waves of magical heat.

The flames extend from wall to wall and reach up 20 feet, effectively screening the party from the Officers of Kazul.

(OOC:  wall going roughly along column 15 to cut off the officers until we deal with the hellspawn and sending damage their way.  Immediately its 6 damage to officers I, H and then 1 damage to officers G B, C, D and J

Maeve and Sekhmet hover at around the same level as Auriel, approximately ten feet off the ground.  Surveying the battlefield with its slew of potential targets, Maeve decides to remain exactly where she is and whale on Hellspawn D.

[FPA #1: 26]
[Damage: 32]
[FPA #2: 26]
[Damage: 36]



[Three things:
1. I still am wearing my Ring of Acid Resistance 10, so assuming that this is acid damage, the amount I took needs to be updated.
2. Sorry I took so long!  I never actually changed Maeve's character sheet when we leveled up so I had to get around to doing that before I could kick some butt.
3. What are the saves for her new prestige class?]

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 50):

OOC @ Maeve: This is actually "heat damage" from the scalding steam, which I believe means fire resistances would come into play even though that doesn't make any sense. No worries on the delays! Your saves should be the same as they would have been if you'd continued your past class choice instead of taking the prestige class (unless you would like to propose something different, in which case we can look at tweaks).

Several of the Serpentsworn officers shiver as the strands of kelp chill them to the bone, despite the blazing presence of Keef's impressive fire wall.

It is difficult to see through the flames, so it is not clear what exactly they're doing over there... though you can certainly make out some chanting, screaming, and swearing.





The Mirror is likewise shrouded behind the flames, and you can hear him laughing maniacally at the scene before him.

This laughter is interrupted with a sudden influx of air and a noise that sounds like "HURK!" Steel clashes on steel, and it becomes clear even through the flames that someone has joined the fight on your side -- someone who appears to be only minorly inconvenienced by the Unholy Aura.



Whatever is happening over there seems to be taking the bulk of the Mirror's attention, and he does nothing further that directly affects the P.A.R.T.Y. this round.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:29, Wed 18 Nov 2015.

Auriel reaches out to Maeve and light arcs across the gap, rejuvenating the warrior.

[Lay on Hands: 56]

He then continues his arc upwards towards the heart of the battle.

Boreas dashes to H24.  His gem glows a bright green as a fluorescent burst of acid streaks toward Hellspawn D.

[Casting Eldritch Chain/Vitriolic Blast]
[Ranged Touch vs. D 19]

It strikes the abomination directly in the face as the burst splits into two more glowing bolts of acid that streak toward 'spawns B and C.

[Ranged Touch vs. B - Critical Miss, Save Successful]
[Ranged Touch vs. C 33]

The burst flies wild of B, but splashes into C.  Hellspawn D howls in pain as its face melts off.

[Acid Damage 25]

It falls to the ground, dead.  Hellspawn C trumpets in pain, the acid sizzling on its skin.

[Acid Damage 15]

It continues to sizzle, searing into the creature's befouled flesh.

[2d6 Acid Damage for the next 2 rounds]

Immediately afterwards, another blast of energy (with a higher pH) flies toward Hellspawn C.

[Casting Quickened Eldritch Blast]
[Ranged Touch Attack - another critical miss, save successful]

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 53):

The remaining Hellspawn trumpet in anger and bulge their hideous eyes in equal parts rage and agony, even as the sizzling sounds of the boiling mist mingle with the angry hiss of caustic acid.

Hellspawn B, who held off on his burble of mist last round, makes up for the deficit by flinging a sizable blast at the paladin.

[Hellspawn B vs Reflex DC 18 (Auriel): 19]

Though Auriel nimbly avoids the worst of the blast, he does not remain unscathed.

[Damage (Auriel): 20]

Hellspawn A and E shamble forward a few halting steps and flail their trunks at Maeve wildly.

[Attack (Maeve): 21, 29]

Only one of the attacks connects, battering the griffinrider hard enough to jostle her, but not enough to cause much alarm.

[Damage (Maeve): 8]

Hellspawn C and F tromp over toward Boreas's direction, though Hellspawn C decides to attack Keef instead once he gets into range.

[Attack (Keef): 19]
[Attack (Boreas): 26]

Both attacks hit, but barely, and the damage continues to be mercifully lackluster... in part because both casters have impressive natural resistances.

[Damage (Keef): 2]
[Damage (Boreas): 6]

The Hellspawn grumble and utter infernal oaths, but take no further action.

In reply to DM (msg # 54):

Keef takes a 4.99-foot step forward while Chubbs jumps up into his arms.  Keef then leaps upward, allowing Chubbs to jump from a higher vantage point and give Maeve's foot a slobbery kiss.

From the mouth of the ugly, yet oddly regal now that you think about it, toad, a tiny spark of red energy flickers into Maeve.

Keef then lands in an awkward attempt to look graceful and nearly topples over.

Chubbs completes a double-somersault mid-air then lands perfectly.  Somewhere in the evil temple, all four judges give him a perfect 10.0.

OOC:  Bull's Strength:
The spell grants a +4 enhancement bonus to Strength, adding the usual benefits to melee attack rolls, melee damage rolls, and other uses of the Strength modifier.  15 minutes.

OOC Part 2: Electric Bugaloo:
That maneuver is probably utter BS, so if you want to rule Keef/Chubbs can't touch Maeve, that's cool.

Maeve and Sekhmet five-foot flap over to space G22, putting the Gaelian warrior in prime striking range of Hellspawn B and E.  They are not pleased about this turn of events.

[Attack Hellspawn B: 25]
[Damage: 36]

[Attack Hellspawn E: 34]
[Damage: 38]


[There seems to be some contention as to whether or not Keef's spell will actually take effect on me.  Judging from the DM's message to me, I'm going with "sure, it will."  If this is not the case, then Hellspawn B doesn't take damage but Hellspawn E still gets hit.]

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 56):

The Serpentsworn officers continue to deal with the effects of icy kelp, scorching flames, and whatever's causing a ruckus over there. Both male and female voices can be heard, along with surges of energy and clashes of steel.

It sounds like quite the party, and the entire structure shakes and rattles as a terrifying BOOM reverberates through the halls. The instability ends almost as soon as it begins, and the building seems stable once more.





The Mirror continues to be preoccupied with whatever's on the other side of the song of ice and fire separating him from the battle raging with the Hellspawn.



Whatever is happening over there continues to take the bulk of the Mirror's attention, and he does nothing further that directly affects the P.A.R.T.Y. this round.

Those closest to the door to the lobby behind you, however, will hear cautious, clanking footsteps of a figure clad in armor coming from that direction. Any who turn their heads will see an armored humanoid with their features obscured by a hooded cloak. The way it carries itself indicates that it is either surprised or confused by the scene unfolding before it.

[Private to Auriel:
(This figure is not Evil)]
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:37, Mon 23 Nov 2015.

Auriel spared little thought for the newcomer, focused as he was on reaching whatever ally seemed trapped on the other side of the wall. Charging upward, Auriel cleared the wall, though not without getting a few feathers singed.

[Fire Damage: 6]

[Temp HP remaining 0; Actual Damage: 12]

Boreas floats five feet diagonally backwards, then launches another burst of acid at Hellspawn C.  It strikes him in the chest, sizzling.

[Ranged Touch 19]
[Acid Damage 21]
[Duration reset - 2d6 acid for 2 rounds]

The foul beast wails in anguish.  The blast splits in two, flying at F and A.  It misses 'spawn F by a mile, sizzling briefly on the wall before dissipating.  Hellspawn A is not so lucky.

[Ranged Touch (F) 18 - crit fail - Reflex success]
[Ranged Touch (A) 29]
[Acid Damage (A) 13]
[2d6 acid for 2 rounds]

[OOC]Hellspawn C should have taken acid damage at the start of its turn.  For convenience, I went ahead and rolled.  10 acid damage on Hellspawn C.[/OOC]

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 59):

The armored figure pauses a few steps from the lobby entrance, taking in the chaotic scene as best as can reasonably be expected. It glances at Boreas and Keef as they scamper around the terrible-yet-ridiculous Hellspawn, then spends a moment appraising Maeve as she takes on her adversaries head-on.

The figure's glance strays toward the churning wall of fire and the wisps of icy kelp beyond it. It stares at -- or perhaps, through -- the flames for a long while, then its gaze lingers upon the winged celestial before Auriel plows through the barrier and out of its sight.

All of this takes place in but a moment, and once it is done, the figure pulls back its hood to reveal pale skin and glistening rivulets of hair framing a face the P.A.R.T.Y. is sure to recognize... Lyriel!
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:55, Tue 24 Nov 2015.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 59):

How can this be? she wonders, gaping in recognition of her once-and-future allies. Did my journey through the Hells rob me of my senses? But no... no, that's definitely them. I'd recognize that warrior poise, that boyish charm, that apathetic toad, and...

She sniffs the air delicately and wrinkles her nose.

... and that peculiar odor anywhere. But how did they come to enter the Hells?

Her gaze snaps toward Hellspawn A, who has taken a keen interest in her arrival, and she suddenly remembers that she is standing in a battlefield.

These questions can wait until these demons have been dealt with. Doubtless there are others beyond the wall, as well.

"Stand fast, heretics, and prepare to be unmade!" Lyriel yells defiantly, drawing a strange, claw-like dagger from her belt as she does so. She leaps directly at Hellspawn A, artfully burying her blade in the beast's neck and stabbing twice in rapid succession.

[Attack (Hellspawn A): 41, 36]

The blade glistens and glimmers with yellow-black light as it makes contact, and an aura of emerald energy swirls around Lyriel in response.

[Fort (Hellspawn A) vs Will (Lyriel): 33 vs 36]

The creature's bulging eyes go wide and it trumpets in dismay as its body shrivels in upon itself as though all of the water within it had suddenly been vaporized, and in seconds there is nothing left of Hellspawn A but a puddle of skin and ash.

[Damage (Hellspawn A): 82]

"I am the right hand of the Emerald Champion, who herself is the right hand of Tassada," Lyriel announces, turning toward the remaining Hellspawn with obvious righteous glee. "Yield, surrender, fight, or flee... it will not change your fate."

The cleric's eyes dance with the madness of zealotry.

"All of you will burn."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:17, Tue 24 Nov 2015.

In reply to Lyriel Vesper (msg # 61):

The remaining Hellspawn shuffle around to get a better angle on the P.A.R.T.Y.

Hellspawn B and E close in on the newest threat, thrashing at Lyriel with their savage tusks.

[Attack (Lyriel): 24, 35]

Both attacks strike true, drawing blood and further infuriating the cleric.

[Damage (Lyriel): 26]

Hellspawn C doesn't move at all, and instead unleashes the full power of his grotesque form upon Keef.

[Attack (Keef): 19,17,28]

The boy mage is knocked into the air by a savage uppercut, gored with the beast's tusks, and then slammed back to the ground with a whipping smash from the Hellspawn's trunk. It is unpleasant, at best, but fortunately Keef's glistening red armor negates a hefty chunk of the damage.

[Damage: 21]

Hellspawn F, shambles directly beneath Maeve and hurls his trunk straight up in an attempt to batter the warrior from below.

[Attack (Maeve): 32]

The blow strikes home, dealing a small amount of damage.

[Damage: 13]

All four remaining Hellspawn trumpet in defiance, and you can see burbling wisps of steam beginning to escape from their trunks once more.

In reply to DM (msg # 62):

Groaning, blood oozing from his chest, Keef takes a single step back, leaving in his place a Keef-shaped sihloette of red flame.  This quickly sinks into a large ball which then rolls toward Hellspawn B, singing it terribly and possibly scaring it... a little (6 damage).

Lyriel?! But. . . . .how??

Maeve is briefly taken aback by the site of her friend and former traveling companion suddenly in the thick of battle.  The change in the cleric's demeanor is alarming, to say the least.

Despite her distraction, Maeve cuts a swath through Hellspawns B and C.

[Attack Hellspawn B: 34]
[Damage: 32]

[Attack Hellspawn C: 39]
[Damage: 38]
This message was last edited by the player at 03:00, Sat 28 Nov 2015.

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 64):

Hellspawn C gurgles its last as Maeve splits it trunk to torso with her heavy-handed blows.

The Serpentsworn officers continue to deal with the effects of icy kelp, scorching flames, and active combat... a scene which Auriel can actually view from his new vantage point. As suspected, Carnaue has joined the fray, and is currently engaged in combat with several officers while a shadowy duplicate of himself duels the Mirror.

Several of the officers are sprawled on the ground, dead from the ravages of magic and, for those nearest to Carnaue, from the ravages of a terrifyingly efficient killer. (OOC: Your map is now accurate behind the wall)

Officers E and J lurch forward, jabbing at Carnaue with hands which glow with infernal magic. The felar growls as energy courses through his body and wracks him with pain.

[Inflect Serious Wounds x2 (Carnaue): 27]


Officers A and B move closer to Carnaue's shadowy duplicate (which is dueling the Mirror itself) and assist by unleashing a series of blows upon it.

[Damage (DupliCarn): 18]

Officer C plows through the fire wall, roaring through the pain, and positions himself in a supporting stance not far from the Hellspawn.

[Damage (Officer C): 7]

He is unable to do much else, however, and he pants to catch his breath from the recent sprint.





The Mirror is standing not far from where you last saw him, and is engaged in a dizzying steel dance with Carnaue and a second figure that looks almost exactly like Carnaue, only in completely washed out and faded overtones.

With help from his flanking officers, the Mirror manages to land a dizzying series of blows on Carnaue's shadow duplicate.

[Damage (DupliCarn): 42]

The figure crumples to the ground and dissolves into a pool of shadows, causing the real Carnaue to take a step backward and hiss in agony.

Whatever his connection to the duplicate, its loss appears to have left him disoriented, disabled, and at least momentarily defenseless.



The remaining officers cheer as they close in around the felar, but the Mirror's attention is directly upward at the advancing Celestial. A grin splits his features and he raises his weapons invitingly.

"Come, Celestial. Let us leave our underlings to their work and begin the dance of the ancients!"

Carnaue does nothing, still shaking his head as if trying to clear it. His weapons are raised in a defensive position, but only loosely. (OOC: He's not helpless, but he's flatfooted. And for a dex-based character that's almost the same thing.).
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:23, Mon 30 Nov 2015.

Lyriel darts forward, burying her dagger into Hellspawn E.

[Attack: 24; Fort 32 vs. Will 34]

The demon lets out a trumpeting shriek of agony as its skin turns to ash and it crumbles to dust. Ripping her blade free, the cleric pounces on the other foe in front of her, but this one manages to dodge her frenzied attacks.

H-how did you all get here?! she pants between strikes. Nevermind that. We have to finish this horde before the local Archfiend notices we're here.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:50, Mon 30 Nov 2015.

Boreas flies down to H24, a blast of energy shooting from his eye and striking Hellspawn B in the face.

[Casting Quickened Eldritch Blast]
[Ranged Touch vs. Hellspawn B: 26]
[Damage: 36]

He reaches a hand over and lays it on Keef's shoulder.  Incoming!

[Ready Action: Cast <b>Fey Step to teleport Boreas and Keef just outside the door if any hostile makes an attack that would include either of them, or tries to move adjacent to Boreas]

Auriel nodded, fluttering down to land. "I've was dancing the steps millennia before your god was ever thought of, Serpentspawn," he replied. "It comes back more quickly than I'd have hoped."

The Celestial touched down gracefully, angling his blade to receive attacks. The air around him began to shimmer and spark.

[Stance: Martial Spirit (+2 hp per successful melee attack, can be granted to any ally within 30 ft.)]

"La'azov!"

[Casting: Holy Storm]

Delicate laces of frost spiraled out in frozen fractals all around him, and a chill wind began to blow. The Mirror shuddered as an icy blast of crystal eiders erupted from the air around him.

[Cold: 14]

The snowflakes sizzled on the skin of the Serpentsworn. [2d6 cold damage / round]

In reply to Auriel (msg # 68):

Hellspawn B takes a five-foot step backward, inhales deeply, and unleashes a burbling torrent of scalding mist from its trunk.

Boreas reacts in an instant, taking himself and Keef out of harm's way before the blast can reach them.

Lyriel catches the blast fully in the face, and screams and the mist cascades over her body.

[Reflex (Lyriel): 16]
[Damage (Lyriel): 27]

Hellspawn F shambles five feet as well, and performs a similar blast upward at Maeve.

[Reflex (Maeve): 22]

Maeve manages to avoid the worst of the blast, but still takes damage.

[Damage (Maeve): 18]

The Hellspawn look at each other, nod, and crack their knuckles in anticipation of the battle's final curtain.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:25, Tue 01 Dec 2015.

In reply to DM (msg # 69):

What!?

Keef looks around to get his bearings.

Oh... thanks. He shrugs off Boreas' hand.

Gotta go!

Keef tucks his arms together across his chest and, to the woodsman's eye, catches fire and burns from existence...

...only to reappear within the main chamber in a roar and splash of red flames that explode around him like whispy lava.

These flames wash over a Hellspawn and Officer both (28 Fire damage to both, REF saves failed even with ward), burning off all of the Officer's exposed hair.

The flames do far worse to the Hellspawn.  It trumpets its last, then collapses into ash on the ground.

Chubbs, meanwhile, hops over to the flaming ball and holds up one foot.  Maybe he's roasting an imaginary marshmallow?

[Private to DM: OOC:  Keef's firey entrance.  Anyone who touches him next round takes 10d6 fire damage which ignores spell resistance.  I'm not sure about spell resistance here or the "good" modifier because I'm not sure if Keef or his spells count as "good".]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:21, Tue 01 Dec 2015.

"It's an exceedingly long story!" Maeve yells to Lyriel in between blows with her guisarme.  "No doubt you'll hear all about it later!"

Maeve attempts to dispatch the last Hellspawn and then get over to help Auriel but in her haste to do so she only lands one solid hit on it.

[Attack (Hellspawn F): 29]

[Damage (Hellspawn F): 37]

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 71):

Keef obliterates the officer and hellspawn alike as he bamfs into a dangerous forward position, blood oozing from his chest as bile rises up in the back of this throat.

There remains only a single Hellspawn on the P.A.R.T.Y.'s side of the wall -- which Maeve is working on dispatching with determination and fury -- while behind it, the Mirror and his remaining minions do battle with a dazed Carnaue and a self-righteous celestial.

The icy storm scalds the officers caught in the radius of the blast.

[Damage (A, B, E, J): 8]

Officer B walks over to the mirror and touches his shoulder while uttering profane words that sound oddly sweet. Sickly yellow energy swirls around the Mirror, and his wounds look less severe.

[Cure Critical (mirror): 20]

Officer A claps his hands together, faces Auriel, and roars a challenge... surging in height even as he does so.

[Righteous Might (Officer A)]

He doubles in size -- weapons, armor, and all -- and shimmers with a yellowish shield that hardens over his skin. The officer raises his now-larger mace and sneers.



Officers E and J unleash the wrath of the dragon on Carnaue while they can on the dazed felar. All four attacks strike home, one critically so.

[Total Damage (Carnaue): 48]

Carnaue is bleeding profusely now, though he looks to be in much better shape than Keef.





The Mirror glances at the celestial and smiles cruelly.

"You know why the darkness is better than the light?" he asks tauntingly. "Because those who stare at the sun for too long go blind."

[Power Word: Blind (Auriel), 3 Rounds]



This last word is said in an entirely different cadence, and Auriel suddenly finds himself completely and utterly unable to see.



Carnaue shakes his head savagely, clearing it, and separates Officer J's head from its shoulders with sickening efficiency.

[Damage (Officer J): 26]

The man falls to the ground, dead.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:51, Thu 03 Dec 2015.

Boreas runs back into the room, firing a bolt of acid at the remaining hellspawn and striking it firmly in the chest.

[Casting Vitriolic Blast - Eldritch Chain]
[Ranged Touch: 33]
[Acid Damage: 31]

The abomination reels with pain as the acid sizzles on its skin.  The bolt ricochets, striking the fallen officer C.

[Ranged Touch: 32]
[Acid Damage: 14]

He'd scream if he weren't already dead, acid burning his flesh away.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:25, Thu 03 Dec 2015.

Auriel blinked in a futile attempt to clear his vision as the world around him simply faded away. Lacking any ability to remove the Mirror's curse, he resigned himself simply dealing with it, and opened his mind to his other senses.

The first part was easy. Lunging forward, he led with his sword where the Serpentsworn servant had been standing to minister to his master.

[Attack: 26]

[Miss chance: Hit]

[Damage: 17]

Auriel felt a momentary resistance, and then a sickening crunch as Dawn plunged into the officer. He leaned into the thrust, following it home as his foe let out a wet gasp and sagged to the ground. The Celestial winced as he felt the man's life flicker out on the tip of his blade. A chill feel crept over him, but he shook it off.

[Fortitude Save: Success]

A faint flicker of light appeared around Carn, providing a modicum of healing. [Healing: 2]

"Admit it," Auriel replied to the Mirror, rolling his eyes in extra exaggerated, blind fashion. "You've been waiting to say that for millennia, haven't you? Needed a bit more time in the oven, honestly. Stick to what you're good at, and leave the wordplay to the professionals." His barbs were punctuated by another blast of ice.

[Cold damage: 13]

He pulled his sword from the limp body of the fallen officer, and turned to face the Mirror's voice. "At least now I don't have to look at your ugly mug."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:51, Thu 03 Dec 2015.

Lyriel takes a look at the teetering Trunkspawn and decides to leave the beast to her companions. Taking a brief respite from the fight, a pulse of emerald fire washes over the PARTY.

[Casting: Wind Walk > Mass Cure Moderate Wounds]

[Healing to all except Carn and Auriel: 37]

Quickly now, she urges. Keef, can you bring down this wall?

In reply to Lyriel Vesper (msg # 75):

Hellspawn F takes note of his limited options, gathers himself, and slings his trunk directly upward... not at Maeve, but at her steed.

[Touch Attack (Griffin): 22]

The trunk glistens with a yellowish energy as it makes contact, and the griffin squawks unpleasantly.

[Fort (Griffin vs Attack): 15]

The energy flashes, and the griffin goes completely and utterly still as though suspended in time.



The griffin and its rider topple immediately to the ground, though neither sustain any damage from the fall. OOC: Maeve herself is not harmed by the spell at all.

The creature crosses its arms and savors this minor triumph.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:36, Thu 03 Dec 2015.

In reply to DM (msg # 76):

...yes... Keef whispers, ...and other things...

He blinks and the wall of sizzling flames winks out of existence.

With a flick of his finger, the ball of fire rolls into the hellspawn (7 damage, REF fail)

He then twists his head slowly, scanning the corpses, statues, frozen kelp...

and foes... enemies in this temple.

He focuses on the huge officer and his mouth forms an inhuman word.

The field of dark energy around the officer shimmers, and nothing further happens.

[Private to DM: Power Word Stun.  Needed to hit 25 to overcome spell resistnace, rolled a 24]

The remaining Hellspawn's smug expression is incredibly short-lived as Maeve five-foots away from the creature and thoroughly murders it.

[Attack 1 (Hellspawn F): 30]
[Attack 2 (Hellspawn F): 19]
[Attack 3 (Hellspawn F): 27]


[Total Damage (Hellspawn F): 71]

Assuming she is able, Maeve will then move to the edge of Boreas' rape-kelp and wait for it to be dispelled.

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 78):

Maeve manages to kill the final Hellspawn, but is unable to move after five-foot stepping and committing to an attack.

All of the Hellspawn and most of the officers are down, but that does little to dissuade the resistance offered by those who remain.

The icy storm scalds the scant few officers caught in the radius of the blast.

[Damage (A, B, E, J, Mirror): 6]

"What ARE you?!" Officer E grunts as Carnaue's antics cause his hood to drop, showing off his distinctly feline features. "You don't look like a demon..."

"He's one of Cenadora's brood,"," the Mirror says offhandedly. "And mark me, we'll deal with her betrayal later."

"Cenadora's ilk, eh?" Officers E mutters thoughtfully. "Maybe we should send him back?"

[Casting: Dismissal (Carnaue)]

Bands of yellowish energy surround Carnaue, and his eyes widen even as he begins to fade away.

"What?! No... No! I'm not going back to the slaver!"

Carnaue holds his hands up before his eyes and hisses as they begin to flicker out of existence, then he turns to fix his gaze on Lyriel, standing on other edge of the kelp.

"Priestess! Your sword's in the sacrist-"

His voices ends abruptly, and just like that, Carnaue is gone.

Officer E crows with delight and moves forward to take up a more useful tactical position.

Officer A doesn't move at all, instead contenting himself with whaling on Auriel with his engorged mace... and aided by Officer E's flanking maneuver

[Attack: 33, 24]

Only one of the attacks manage to crunch through the celestial's staunch defenses, dealing more-than-modest damage.

[Damage (Auriel): 17]

The floating sword near Auriel reacts, swinging toward the aggressor with fury.

[Counterattack (Officer A): 18]

Fortunately, it misses.



The Mirror sneers in triumph as the immediate battle seems to swing his way.





"I just wish you could have seen that," the Mirror chuckles, ignoring Auriel's verbal barbs. "Or this."

He proceeds to unleash an entire CAN of whoop-ass on the celestial, his twin swords swirling into a maelstrom of supernaturally fast sharp-edged agony.

[Attack (Auriel): 47,27,30,28,40,42,36]

Auriel's defenses, weakened as they are by blindness, are penetrated four of the seven times.

[Damage (Auriel): 56]

The sword of retribution gleams as it surges toward the Mirror four times to answer.

[Counterattack (Mirror): 33,21,30,27,24]

The surging weapon strikes home twice, dealing damage.

[Damage (Mirror): 24]

Auriel staggers, unsure what exactly is happening due to his ongoing condition.



The aura surrounding your enemies begins to flicker, and seems to be nearing the end of its duration.



The kelp continues to wriggle and writhe, but has nothing new to latch onto.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:45, Fri 04 Dec 2015.

Lyriel's eyes widen as she grasps the meaning behind Carn's words, but she pushes it from her mind for the time being.

Emerald light arcs out from her outstretched hand, and begins systematically dismantling the Mirror's handiwork.

[Dispel Blindness: Success]
[Dispel Mirror's aura: Success]
[Dispel A's aura: Success]
[Dispel E's aura: Success]
[Dispel Kelp: Success]

The field of kelp, now more an obstacle than a boon, flickers out of existence, and the light in Auriel's eyes returns. The priestess forges ahead, eager to join the fighting.

The Goddess won't suffer you to live, Fiend! she spits at the Mirror.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:38, Fri 04 Dec 2015.

The heartbeat his vision returned, Auriel sprang into action. Dawn slashed twice in spinning cuts to opposite sides of the Mirror, cutting grievous wounds that hissed and sparked. He immediately followed up with a knee to the hellspawn's gut.

[Devastating Smite: Critical Hit]
[Smite: Hit]
[Kneepad: Hit]

[Total Damage: 108]

As the Mirror buckled involuntarily under the unexpected assault, the Celestial whipped his sword around to catch the enlarged officer in the gut.

[Attack: Hit]
[Damage: 21]

The officer gasps in pain, and the pallor of his skin turns to icy blue, dangerously near death's door despite remaining on his feet. A much stronger flicker of light coalesces around his brow.

[Healing: 8]

Another icy blast crashes into the Mirror before he can even recover.

[Cold Damage: 13]

The light along his shield fades, but Auriel stands unbowed and unbroken.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:07, Fri 04 Dec 2015.

Boreas surges forward, his eye and bracer glowing as he extends his hand toward Officer E.

[Swift Action: Activate Bracers of Entangling Blast]

Thick, acidic vines extend from the bracer, wrapping tightly around Officer E.

[Casting Vitriolic Blast/Eldritch Chain]
[Ranged Touch vs. E: 30]
[Acid Damage vs. E: 15]
[Officer E Entangled for 1 round]
[2d6 Acid Damage for 2 rounds]

The vines strike out from Officer E, striking the Mirror and Officer A.

[Ranged Touch vs. A: 36 - Crit Confirmed]
[Acid Damage 15]

Officer A's lifeless body shrinks back to normal size, sizzling away as it lies lifeless on the ground.  The vines also wrap around the Mirror himself.

[Ranged Touch vs. Mirror: 30]
[Acid Damage vs. Mirror: 6]
[Mirror of Kazul Entangled for 3 rounds]
[2d6 Acid Damage for 2 rounds]

He suddenly finds himself unable to move freely, the acidic vines burning his skin.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 82):

Keef sets his jaw into an angry scowl and begins to march toward the Mirror and his croonies.

...you will pay for what you've done...

Recognizing a familiar - and entirely unexpected - voice behind him, Auriel risked a glance backward as Boreas' vines ensnared his remaining foes.

His eyes widened in surprise upon seeing Lyriel's battle-hardened glare, and he wasn't sure if it was her sudden presence in the cathedral or the manic, desperate look in her eyes that he found more shocking.

Her path cleared for her by her friends, Maeve is wide open to charge the Mirror. . . .which she does, and which would have been totally epic if she managed to hit it.  As it is, her attack goes wild, though not by much.

[Attack (Mirror): 26]



[Yeah yeah, I probably shouldn't have attempted a FPA, but I figure go big or go home.]

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 85):

The icy storm scalds those still caught in the radius of the blast.

[Damage (Officers, Mirror): 7]

The remaining officers crumple to the ground dead, laying awkwardly in the sizzling snow.





The Mirror's wounds smoke as the acidic vines burn through his scaly hide.

[Damage (Mirror): 6]



The Mirror now finds himself quite alone, his wounds oozing blood even as vines clutch at his extremities. His foes have closed to melee range, and for the first time his arrogant facade begins to crack.

His eyes blaze with fury as his muscles surge against the grasping vines, straining and ultimately slipping free from his bonds in a flurry of movement.

[Escape Artist vs DC 19: 24]

He uses this opening to disengage, hurrying behind the enormous stature of Kazul in the process using a complicated series of tumbles.

[Tumble vs Maeve: 19]
[Tumble vs Zuriel: 23]

"Only a fool," he snarls through clenched teeth. "Would challenge me here, in the inner sanctum. Flee while I still allow it!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:53, Wed 09 Dec 2015.

Lyriel advances into the swirling snow, and claps her hands together. A blinding emerald light flashes out and encases herself, Maeve, and Auriel in a sweltering aura.

[Casting: Holy Aura]

[+4 Deflection bonus to AC, +4 to all saves, SR 25 vs evil spells and spells cast by evil creatures, immunity to possession and mental influence. Any evil creature that makes a successful melee strike against a warded creature must make a DC 24 Fortitude save or be blinded]

Don't let him escape! she cries.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:36, Wed 09 Dec 2015.

Auriel dashed forward, following the retreating figure. As he left the whirling column of ice and snow, the storm abated, leaving only a few snowflakes drifting lazily.

"Running from us already? I should have expected as much. I know your type. Beneath your veneer of strength and bravado beats the heart of a coward."

[Devastating Smite: Hit]

[Kneepad shot: Hit]

[Damage: 66]

[Healing: 4]

[Combat Expertise: 5]

Dawn whipped out like the strike of a snake, followed by another knee to the Mirror's gut.

"Your kind always crumble when you realize that that the power you wielded over those weaker than you was a false strength. Hollow and meaningless, like a life devoted to naught but personal gain."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:50, Wed 09 Dec 2015.

Boreas runs forward (to J13) and shoots another blast of conjured acid at the Mirror.  The minion of Kazul tries to dodge, but the acid strikes his shoulder and splashes over his back.

[Ranged Touch 24]
[Acid Damage 33]

The foul creature's skin sizzles still further as he howls in pain.

[2d6 Acid Damage for 2 rounds]

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 89):

Keef nods and dashes off in the opposite direction, hoping to head the Mirror off if he tries to flee.

"It ends here, now," Maeve adds menacingly as she moves around the statue of Kazul to head off the Mirror.  The impact of her words is lessened only somewhat as she slows slightly to step around a pile of corpses.

[Attack (Mirror): 42]
[Attack (Mirror): 39]

[Damage: 44]

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 91):

The Mirror is punctured, penetrated, sliced, seared, melted, mutilated, burned, and otherwise violently beaten by the brutish thugs of the P.A.R.T.Y.

He grunts as Auriel's flaming sword burrows into his shoulder, and gasps as the spiked kneepad crashes into his sternum. He roars when Boreas's acid etches an obscene symbol into his scaly forehead, and he tenses for a spell that never comes when Keef dashes toward him from the other direction.

It is Maeve, however, who causes him to emit a gurgling scream as her weapon crunches through bone, scale, and sinew. When she withdraws her weapon, his legs give out and he sprawls backward onto his ass, using his arms to prop himself in a sitting position.

"Gods..." the Mirror breathes heavily, spitting blood onto the smooth stone floors in the process. "Cenadora's hand was here. Tassada's remains. And there is... there is ancient magic at work in the three of you."

He gestures awkwardly at Boreas, Keef, and Auriel in turn, then glances at the celestial.

"You are... not men. Mortals could never undo me...

The light in the Mirror's eyes flickers like a sputtering torch, and he addresses the P.A.R.T.Y. in aggregate.

"Who are you? Are you gods?""

OOC: The Mirror is helpless.

~~ End Combat ~~
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:20, Thu 10 Dec 2015.

No, says Lyriel, striding swiftly over to the crumpled Mirror. We are but men and women, mortal instruments. But make no mistake, the will of our gods burns in our souls. Now then.

The priestess pushes past Auriel and kneels next to the fallen demon, placing her dagger against his sluggishly beating heart. You are the lord of this particular region of Hell? I am searching for an Archfiend. An ancient one. He's taken something very dear from my family, and I mean to get it back.

Lyriel tightens her grip, pressing the dagger tighter against him. Answer me, and I shall ease your passing. Who holds the Vesper Pact?
This message was last edited by the player at 21:05, Thu 10 Dec 2015.

"Well, *I'm* not," Maeve mutters under her breath.  "The others?  Honestly, it's getting hard to tell."

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 94):

Keef whistles as he begins to pile all the flammable materials he can find against one wall of the room.

Maeve's griffon remains motionless and grumpy-faced where she landed.  Someone should probably do something about that when they get a chance.

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 96):

Chubbs hops over to join the group, slipping carefully under Lyriel's leg to crouch beside the defeated Mirror.

He focuses all of his energy into a single withering gaze upon the half dragon half man, widening his warty stance into a firm defiant combat stance.

He takes a single hop forward, within a few inches of the Mirror's bloody leg.

In the blink of an eye, his tiny tongue darts from between brownish green lips and slaps against the Mirror's left knee.

Having licked it, the Mirror thus belongs to Chubbs now.

Thus owning the Mirror, he promptly loses interest and falls asleep, caring not a whit what happens next.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:17, Thu 10 Dec 2015.

Boreas looks to his comrades.  When someone asks you if you're a god, you say yes.

His eye glows white, with each different color flickering around the edges, ever changing.  A voice emerges that sounds like a combination of many voices in unison, with only the slightest tonal dissonance.

We are not a god, but something rather like it.  We are tree.  We are stone.  We are deer.  We are air.  We are water.  We are.  We are.

He returns to his normal self, almost unaware of what he just said.  Anyway, let's get this business wrapped up and have done with this war.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 98):

"Whatever else you are... you are powerful. Strong. Rich. That is well," the Mirror rasps, his breath coming in ragged gulps as the last of his blood splatters to the floor. "But... I know of no Vesper Pact. I can't keep track of every line of pitiful mortals who sell their souls to the Abyss for material gain. Though come to think of it, that really sounds like the sort of thing-"

His eyes widen as the pupils dilate into smouldering orbs of sickly yellow light, and the holy symbol on his chest sizzles so hot it burns into his chest. When next he speaks, his voice is not his own.

"The souls of Vesper's line are bound to my domain, a bargain made in desperation after the infant church of Tassada brought the pacifistic idiocy of Ma'or to its knees. They are not yours to claim, nor can they be redeemed.  They, like all that exists, belong to me.

The words are harsh and over-enunciated, and are spoken through the Mirror's body like a poorly ventriloquated puppet.

You have shown great strength in coming to my domain. You have bested my mortal harbinger, slain the last of the dragonspawn, and defeated my loyal servitor. You have earned an audience."

A rumbling sound shakes the cathedral, and plaster and rock fall from the ceiling in tiny showers of debris.

"Depart this place. Follow the crimson scar in the sky until you come to a pillar of living flame. If you remain worthy... we shall speak again."

The Mirror's expression goes slack, and he falls to the ground, dead.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:11, Fri 11 Dec 2015.

Lyriel's eyes widen with the shock of understanding. Not a pact with an Archfiend, but the Dragon God himself! she rasps hoarsely, recoiling back as if burned. No wonder the manacles of servitude were deemed unbreakable.

She slots her dagger back into its sheath on her thigh, and strides quickly towards the sacristy. That fight will have drawn the attention of whatever Hellspawn are nearby. We had best leave this place quickly, the priestess calls over her shoulder to the PARTY. While we make ready, perhaps you all can explain how you managed to breach the Hells? I wasn't expecting to find any allies in this godsforsaken place.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:29, Fri 11 Dec 2015.

In reply to Lyriel Vesper (msg # 100):

Now that the chaos of combat has ended, anyone who takes the time to glance out a window will notice that the dingy city streets of Nekria are indeed nowhere to be found, and in their place lies the angry, rust-colored landscape of the battle-scarred Abyss.

Lyriel wanders over to the sacristy, encountering a few powerless priests who give her wide berth. There are several bodies on the ground among the vestments and robes and incense bearers, and in the corner she spies her goal: an immaculate sword propped against the corner of the wall as though left there in a hurry.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:38, Fri 11 Dec 2015.

Lyriel ignores the cowering priests to recover the sword, cradling it like something precious. She emerges from sacristy and spares a moment to absently dispel Sekmet, who returns to life with a disgruntled screech.

Heedless of all else, she draws the sword, examining it along all angles in the ruddy light filtering in through the shattered stained glass.

Maeve absently soothes the disgruntled griffon, who is less than pleased at the indignity of having been frozen in time.  As she does, she studies Lyriel.  The formerly immaculate priestess now appears to be less so--her perfectly arranged hair and clothing are now disheveled, and there are lines on Lyriel's face that Maeve could have sworn were not there when they parted ways what seems ages ago.

"We might ask you the same question," she says.  "Seeing you here is a surprise as well."

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 103):

Keef scours the chamber for kindling.

We should leave... he comments absently.  Or, I mean, all of you should first...

In reply to Keef (msg # 104):

Chubbs takes a nap on his prize (i.e. the dead Mirror).

Not that he cares about it, but it IS his.

Lyriel snapped her attention abruptly from the sword to Maeve. How long had it been since she last saw her friend's face? Months? Years? Time flowed strangely between the planes. It felt like a lifetime.

She bit her lip, anxious to put some distance between herself and what would soon be the focus of infernal forces battling over the scraps of territory the Mirror left behind. Nevertheless, she felt some brief explanation was in order in case her allies hadn't bothered to read the extensive side story that had been unfolding over the past months.

I left to track down the men responsible for killing Eldric..."



Lyriel held her blade aloft. Carn was kind enough to bring the sword that Eldric had forged. It's the key to freeing the souls of all my ancestors.

Her eyes harden into chips of emerald. I'm not sure what brings you all to the hells, but *I* have a god to kill.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:04, Fri 11 Dec 2015.

In reply to Lyriel Vesper (msg # 106):

Keef continues to scurry about looking for burnable material. It is not in short supply, and soon a merry pile of rich clothing, elaborate tapestries, and priceless draperies of all kinds are piled in strategic locations.

After Lyriel has finished chatting about her journeys, the P.A.R.T.Y. notices a small knot of lesser Serpentsworn priests forming near the back of the church. After some jumbled muttering, a shout, and a few shoves, one of them steps forward.

He's a short, stocky man with ruddy skin and a patchy beard that's been signed far too many times to recover. He removes his skullcap to reveal a bald, scrab-encrusted head, and he clears his throat nervously.

"We... that is to say, the others and I..."

He coughs and vigorously looks anywhere except for the pile of melted ashes where the Mirror once stood.

"We um... we were wondering. Where have you brought us? And what do you intend to do with us now?"

While Lyriel told her tale, Auriel silently listened, his face inscrutable. After a long silence in which he struggled to find something - anything - to say, he spoke up. "If there is anything in my power that can restore your family, I will do it. You should not have to suffer the sins of your fathers."

It was all he could manage. Anything else was left unsaid.

He turned away from the priestess to face the abrupt interruption of the Serpentsworn. "We didn't bring you here. This was your god's doing. It would appear that this cathedral has been moved to the hells. Or perhaps, exists both here and on Prime at the same time." Auriel shook his head. "We have no plans for you. You're free to go. You've been brought at last to a place where you can't trouble anyone else again."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:06, Wed 16 Dec 2015.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 108):

The speaker nods, then gives a sidelong glance at Keef and the growing pile of kindling.

"We... er... we were also wondering if he's doing what it looks like he's doing."

"Oh, absolutely. I'd suggest leaving."

In reply to Auriel (msg # 110):

After waiting just long enough to ensure that Auriel was being serious, the priests and other minor clergy back slowly away from the group, then fall over themselves in their hurry to get out of the main chamber. Some head for the exit, some for the stairs, and some for the back rooms, but it's clearly everyone-for-themselves.

OOC: It's entirely possible than anything worth looting is about to vanish along with the rabble, so if you're in "loot mode" tell me what you're prioritizing.

Crossroads for Loot Distribution
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:59, Wed 16 Dec 2015.

"While Keef gets this place set to blow, we should probably take some time to see if there's anything here worth salvaging. Supplies we might need, items of power that might be useful, information or records we could use to our advantage."

[OOC lacking the ability to detect which items are magic, Auriel will busy himself browsing through records and archives, trying to find information relevant to Kazul's supposed capabilities, the initial formation of his church, and anything that might be related to Vora.]

Lyriel is going to prioritize items, weapons, and armor that might be helpful in the fight against Kazul, starting with whatever the Mirror had.

Boreas, emanating the subtle scent of roses and elderberry, sets about gathering the magical items together so the group can assess which we want to take.

As Auriel conducted his search, he pointed out to the PARTY at large that since Kazul does not empower his followers with spells directly, there is likely to be a large hoard of scrolls, wands, and potions on hand in the Cathedral that might be useful in the coming battles.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 115):

Keef continues to rummage for things that will burn. He tosses all manner of vestment, cloth, tapestry, and such into strategically placed piles. When Auriel locates a small but densely packed library on the second floor, Keef is faced a decision re: what to do with all that tempting paper...

Auriel locates a small but densely packed library on the second floor, which is filled mostly with histories, busts, and ledgers. It appears that each of the High Priests of Kazul has their own bust, under which has been placed a detailed ledger of accounts that tracks their personal wealth and the Church's wealth throughout their tenure. There is a distinct correlation between prolonged downward dips in the profit trends and the succession of a new High Priest of Kazul.

There exists also a thick, three-part tome entitled "Serpentsworn: The Way of the Dragon". A quick thumb-through reveals this talks at length about Kazul and his strengths and triumphs. About Vora, however, there is nothing at all to be found.

Boreas spends most of his time fishing things out of Keef's pile that are magical and putting them into another pile. This includes a cloak, two tablecloths, a pair of boots, an empty stoppered flask, and several maces and shortswords.

Lyriel sets aside the Mirror's twin swords, but is unable to recover anything else from his charred and melted visage except for his holy symbol, which appears to have been fused with pieces of his scaly chest and the dense bones beneath to form a distorted disk of scale, bone, and metal that hums and vibrates periodically.

Maeve is directed to search for potions, and eventually finds a small pantry toward the back of the cathedral. Here she discovers a spice rack filled with glowing bottles of various hues. Unable to tell what they do or read the labels, the drags the whole thing to the main room for further inspection. She also finds an ornate javelin which has been used as a spit. Looking exceptionally well made, she brings that back to the others for further inspection as well.

Loot List
• "Serpentsworn: The Way of the Dragon" (book, mundane)
• Javelin (magical)
• 24 assorted potions
• Mirror's blades (magical) x2
• Mirror's symbol (magical)
• Cloak, two tablecloths, a pair of boots, an empty stoppered flask, and four maces, six shortswords (all magical)
• Two rings (magic)
• Two amulets (magic)
• One rod (magic)
• Six wands (magic)
• $10,000 of gold and jewels
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:40, Wed 16 Dec 2015.

In reply to DM (msg # 116):

When approached, Chubbs makes clear that the Mirror, any anything he has on him, belongs to the fat toad.  He who licked it owns it.

Keef waves his hands and summons a familiar doorway out of thin air.

Through this he tosses any books he comes across.

Anything else flammable goes into one of several piles.

Auriel cataloged the items, packing and stowing them for travel. As soon as the PARTY has finished gathering loot, he stands up and wanders over to the largest pile of combustibles.

"Right then. Keef, are we about ready to burn this place to ashes, and then burn the ashes?"

In reply to Auriel (msg # 118):

Keef nods, a flicker of... something in his eyes.

Yes, everyone should get out now.

He looks over at Chubbs.

I'll carry your loot, Keef offers.  Chubbs gives what must be some sort of indifferent shrug.

This area will be crawling with demons and devils in a matter of hours. We need to be on our way.

Without a backwards glance, Lyriel buckles on her new sword and makes her way from the Cathedral.

Boreas leaves with the others.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 121):

The P.A.R.T.Y. leaves Keef to ignite the cathedral and exits through the lobby, but instead of the courtyard of Nekria a very different scene confronts them: the twisted, ruddy-red hellscape of the Abyss.

True to the Mirror's words, a pillar of flame can be seen off in the distance, cutting through the purplish-black haze of the sky like the beacon it's meant to be.

The cathedral appears to be nestled against the wall of a cavernous valley of some sort, though there is no foliage to be seen, and a trail leads east and west. Mountains loom in all directions, and the pillar of flame is situated to the northeast.

Corpses of demons and other creatures can be seen piled up to the west, and Lyriel nods curtly toward them as she turns her attention eastward.

OOC: Waiting for Keef to finish up.

In reply to DM (msg # 122):

Keef slams the door to the Klubhouse shut and it vanishes from this plane.

He then snaps his fingers and a ball of flame appears on top of one of the piles of kindling, then rolls quickly around the rooms to the others.

Finally, he grabs the Mirror's corpse by the ankles and drags it slowly outside.  Chubbs, asleep, rides on the Mirror's bloody chest as if it were a regal sleigh of some kind.

Lyriel stops on the path a good 100 yards from the Cathedral and turns to watch Keef trudge out. As the boy drags the crumpled body of the Mirror behind him, the flickering of flames begins to light the stained glass with a pulsing glow, and smoke billows out from the places where the stained glass was shattered.

The priestess bows her head in prayer, pressing her palms together. Her voice sounds distorted as she chants, and her eyes seem to blaze with fire. With a final echoing incantation, she slams both hands into the ground.

[Casting: Earthquake]

At first, there is only silence. But the PARTY feels a vibration in the soles of their feet that quickly builds into a shuddering tremor as if the bedrock itself were wounded.

The land that the Iron Cathedral stands on begins to fissures and split, and chunks of rock and masonry tumble into lava-filled crevasses. The very land begins to bubble, surge, and smoke to match the now-roaring fire inside the temple.

Boreas floats about ten feet off the ground to avoid the inconvenience.

Maeve and Sekhmet likewise fly above the ground to avoid the earthquakes.

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 126):

The P.A.R.T.Y. makes its way through the valley, following the Star of David pillar of flame wherever it may lead.

As they walk, they take the time to analyze the various goodies that were procured from the ruined temple.



Thus occupied, the time passes quickly. Very few demons approach you as you travel, and those who do back off when they see the carcass Keef is dragging along the road as a sleigh.

Several days pass in this fashion, and the pillar of flame looks to remain a fair ways off.

On the morning of the fourth day, as the P.A.R.T.Y. continues its travels along a steep and winding path that is bordered on either side by a dizzying fall into an ocean of magma (not that the flyers mind), they encounter a trio of armored humanoids attempting to travel in the opposite direction via the same path.

Two of the humanoids are giant-like in proportion, and are lugging between them a boxy cart with a door and an iron cage. Within this cage is a small humanoid dressed in tattered rags. Her wrists are bound together, and her ankles are shackled to the floor.

The third armored humanoid stands atop the cage, and orders the giants to come to a stop when they come without about 20 feet of the P.A.R.T.Y.

All three of the humanoids are dressed entirely in plate, complete with T-visors which emanate a darkness that entirely shrouds their facial features. There are no signs of allegiance or heraldry among them.

"What ho!" the humanoid atop the cage exclaims once he is close enough to speak comfortably. "What've we here?"

He glances at the P.A.R.T.Y. for a moment before settling on Auriel, and his voice becomes more cruel.

"I think you might be lost, Celestial. Where do you think you're going?"

"Us? Lost?" Auriel looked around, widening his eyes innocently. "Not at all! We're just sightseers, here on holiday. Thought we'd take a trip out here to hike the Mountains of Torment, visit the Springs of the Damned, maybe do a picnic out on the Fields of Suffering...slay Kazul...you know. The usual tourist stuff."

The Celestial nodded to the cage. "And what of you fine fellows? Seems like an awful big retinue for just one prisoner. So what are you, slavers fallen on hard times? A coach line with exceptionally poor customer service? Haven't seen too many other travelers on these roads."

In reply to Auriel (msg # 128):

The giants stare stupidly ahead, heedless of Auriel's words, but the speaker turns toward him fully.

"You would slay the dragon god? You're madmen... but I did not know that the Lord of Lies was so desperate in his bid for power that he had stooped to working with the High Heavens. That is... most useful."

He glances over the P.A.R.T.Y. once more and shrugs.

"Pass in peace, and yield unto us the same courtesy. We both, it would seem, have places to be."

The giants know their cue when they hear it, and begin to lumber forward with the cart. Barring further interaction, they will pass you and continue on their way without incident.

"Hold a moment, friend," Auriel called out before the caravan could get properly underway. "That woman there, she doesn't seem to be from around here. May I ask who she is?"

He flashes a half smirk. "Ironic, given the circumstances, but my...patroness...has a vested interest in ensuring those who don't belong to the hells stay out of them."

In reply to Auriel (msg # 130):

"She is chattel," the figure answers. "She belongs the Hells, and is no concern of yours."

"Get me out of here!" the woman in the cage shrieks, rattling her chains vigorously. "Or kill me, if you can't. I'd rather die than reach Abbalin."

"You may yet get your wish," the figure snarls, leaping from the cart and landing heavily upon the rocky ground. He unfurls a whip in transit, and lashes out at the woman the moment he lands. The captive shrikes and falls silent, huddled in the corner and hugging her knees to her chest as well as her chains allow.

"Forgive her," the figure says apologetically. "She has not yet learned her place. Abbalin is nice enough once you get used to it. Good luck, dragon slayers. Kazul or Ká, the lord of hell makes no matter to me and mine."

He leaps back onto the back of the cage-cart and motions for the giants to continue their journey.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:17, Mon 21 Dec 2015.

"How much?"

Auriel cleared his throat, and then repeated his question more loudly to the retreating figure. "If she's chattel, then how much do you want for her?" he asked, voice echoing.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:18, Mon 21 Dec 2015.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 132):

The figure pauses, and the cart stops short. He turns, cocks his head to one side, and then leaps from the cart to land not far from the celestial.

"She's promised to another client," the figure says after a moment. "But I'm willing to consider a counteroffer, seeing as she's not been paid for in full."

He snaps his fingers and the giants turn the cart around.

"Do you want the details of what your buying, or just the price?"

"Both, but I'd like to hear the details from her directly,"

Auriel's boots clomped in the dust as he walked over to the cage. Putting his hands on the bars, he peered into the cage at the woman, eyes kind. "Who are you, miss? And how did you come to be a captive in the Hells?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:26, Mon 21 Dec 2015.

Maeve hangs back but remains on alert in case the giants decide to turn on Auriel or in case the prisoner with whom the celestial is conversing turns out to be rather less meek than she appears.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 134):

The captive looks over Auriel's shoulders at the figure, who has uncoiled his whip but does not look like he's about to use it. She slowly stands and gives an account of herself.

"My name's Sahnib, sir. Formerly of Teziir, where I was a laundress. I escaped with the help of an organization known as the Chain Breakers, who led me to a paradise called Jannah."

She shivers slightly.

"It was a paradise in name only, and shortly after my arrival I sought a way to leave, but there was only a single portal and it was always well-guarded. One day, though, there was a great deal of excitement. I hear later that a group of outlanders had arrived and spirited away our beekeeper, causing much anger for the town's mayor.

He ordered formal headcounts from that day forward, and doubled the number of guards serving the town. I volunteered to serve in one of these new guard positions, and patiently waited until I was assigned guard duty next to the portal itself. At the first opportunity, I threw myself into it and prayed for a return home."

Sahnib quakes slightly before continuing.

"I landed here, in the Hells, though I know not how far from this very spot. Alone and armed with only the simple weapons of a town guard -- which I could barely use -- I quickly found myself running for my life. I hid out in a cavern for a few weeks, living off what mushrooms and lichens I could gather. One day I foraged in the wrong place at the wrong time, and I was beset by devilish hounds. Instead of ripping me limb from limb, they simply dragged me to their master. I was tossed in a cage and left alone for days, save periodic feedings."

"I first met this lot perhaps four days ago, when I was transferred to their cart and cage. I don't know the buyer, but I know they live in Abbalin... which is a particularly wretched place, from what I've overheard."

She looks pleadingly at Auriel.

"I've been a slave my entire life, sir. You'll be glad you bought me. I'll be the best slave you've ever had. Just please don't let them send me to Abbalin!"

Her story complete, the figure clears his throat.

"I've got an offer on her for $6,000 right now, plus expenses for me and my boys for the trouble of lugging her to and fro. Top that and she's yours. We're also available for hire at $1,000 per day if you'd rather us drag her to a specific location... though I get the feeling you won't be interested in that. What do you say?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:42, Mon 21 Dec 2015.

Auriel pursed his lips in thought, then pulled out his bag. "I'll give you 8,000, here and now. But I'd like to know the name of the buyer she was promised to, in case I have to watch my back going forward."

In reply to Auriel (msg # 137):

Keef perks up at the mention of a beekeeper.

He drops the Mirror's legs to the dusty ground and races over to the cart, slamming his face between two bars.

You ESCAPED from Jannah?  HOW?  WellImeanIKNOWyousaidyouusedtheportalbut...  Keef takes a breath, whatdidtheportallooklikeanditdroppedyouhere?  Butit'sprobablygonenow,right?  IfitisnstwherecanIfinditImeanthat... SHOULDbewhereyouleftitrightbutyouprobablyleftfastbutisitstillthere  Canyoudescribetheportalormaybewhatitsmelledlikebecausethat'simportantand... I'vebeentryingtofigureouthowtogetbacktoJannahsoIcanwellDESTROYITANDTHEONEWHOMADEIT!  DoyouknowhowtogetbackmaybewhobroughtyoutoJAnnahmaybethatwouldhelpmefindit!

Auriel put a gently restraining hand on Keef's shoulder. "Peace, Keef. There will be time for all that later. We have business to conduct first."

The message in Auriel's eyes was clear. Not. Now.

In reply to Keef (msg # 138):

"The deal is done," the figure says, tossing an iron key to Auriel the moment he's paid. "Enjoy your booty, Celestial. The buyer went by the name of Ptolemy. We were to drop her off at a specific estate in Abbalin. For another $2,000, I will provide the address."

The captive doesn't quite know what to make of Keef, and backs away from the cage looking alarmed.

In reply to DM (msg # 140):

WELLPAYTHETWOTHOUSAND!

This time, Auriel nodded in agreement with Keef. "We'll pay for that information as well."

The Celestial took the iron key and turned it in the lock to open the cage. After another brief moment of fidgeting with locks, her manacles fell to the floor of the cage with a clatter. He leaned out to the terrified woman, hand extended. "We're getting you out of here, miss," he said kindly.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:35, Mon 21 Dec 2015.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 142):

The figure hands a scroll case to Keef after being paid the $2,000, then hops back onto the empty cage. The giants begin rolling it and him away, leaving the captive behind.

The captive bows her head submissively and attempts a curtsy.

"Thank you, sir," she says softly. "How many I be of service, and to which household do I have the honor of belonging?"

In reply to DM (msg # 143):

Keef will wait patiently for Auriel to talk to and get to know the girl before launching into a relentless stream of questions (a mix of pointed, specific, tactical, innane and incomprehensible questions).


Oh, wait.

No, he won't wait a second before starting the questions.

Auriel eyed the departing devils balefully as he waited for Keef to tire himself out with questions. After the demons were out of sight and Keef was three or four gasps into his fussilade, he turned his attention back to the freed slave.

"First of all, you belong to yourself now. Consider yourself freed. I detest slavery, and those who would put others in chains," he said, gazing penetratingly at the young woman, "whether they are made of iron, or forged of dogma and fear."

He sighed, breaking his gaze and turning it to the hellscape around them. "I might think, however, that stuck as we are in the hells, that finding your freedom here rings a bit hollow," he said with a wry chuckle. He gently detached Keef, who had taken the girl's wrist as if looking for a physical manifestation of metaphorical chains.

"I apologize for my...enthusiastic young comrade's exuberance, miss. It's just that we are no friends of Jannah's Emir, or the Ptolmy to whom you were being brought, and any information you have about him might help us foil their plans. But first though, you look like you could use something to eat."

Auriel rummages in Shahara's saddlebags, returning with a small satchel of dried meat, cheese, and a crusty roll leftover from breakfast. One thing could be said about Lyriel's return is that breakfasts had become infinitely better again. He proffered the food to the overwhelmed girl, along with a chalice of cool water.

"I am Auriel, and these are my companions Keef, Boreas, Maeve, and Lyriel," he said, nodding to each in turn. "What might we call you by?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:47, Mon 21 Dec 2015.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 145):

"Sahnib, sir," she replies, taking a moment to study the food before nibbling cautious at it. If she is pleased at her newfound liberty, she takes pains to conceal it... or perhaps does not believe it. "I will tell you what I can about that awful place, if that is what you wish of me, while we travel. Though I'm unsure as to your destination. We have come past that way these past few days, and there is nothing but wretchedness in that direction."

"We're in the Hells, Sahnib," Auriel replied. "There's wretchedness in every direction."

His eyes went unfocused as he looked out at the pillar of flame. He gestured towards it, pointing. "That's where we're headed. Wherever that leads waits Kazul. The Dragon God."

The Celestial's face set into grim determination. "We've come to kill him."

Auriel turned to Sahnib with a sad smile. "So you're welcome to travel with us for as long as you like. You can share our bread, our company, and our protection. And though we are traveling towards great danger, there is always hope. With us, you have a chance. In Abbalin, with Ptolmy...you know what fate awaited you."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:13, Mon 21 Dec 2015.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 147):

Keef gasps for air, giving Auriel ample time to speak.

While Sahnib eats, he pats her knee gently, a perfect imitation of someone consoling someone else.

There, there.  Don't worry.  You're not going back into slavery. 

He smiles and cocks his head to one side.

It's true!  We're going to find Ptolomy, and remove his organs.  Then we're going to evacuate Jannah and collapse it on his organs.

Keef's smile broadens to show teeth.

In reply to Keef (msg # 148):

"I'm... you're what?" Sahnib says, looking at Keef strangely. "That would... I mean, freeing everyone there would be a great service, but I thought you were off to face Kazul."

She glances at the P.A.R.T.Y. once more, clearly confused.

"You speak lightly of killing a god, tromp gaily through the burning hells, and seek to dismantle a little-known Gaelian cult. You're also using a corpse as a sled for your pet toad. Who ARE you people?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:24, Tue 22 Dec 2015.

"Us?" Auriel asked, raising an eyebrow, "Why, we're the PARTY, of course."

He frowns, considering her words. "Though I'll admit I'm a bit confused about the corpse sled myself. Keef, do we really need to drag that grisly thing around? If it weren't for Lyriel's magics, the smell would have been beyond unbearable, rather than merely distressing."

Seeing as that explanation did little to actually, well, explain, Auriel continued. "We've been fighting against the manipulations of Vora for quite some time. I'm assuming by now that you realize the Cult of Vora is the force behind Jannah. At any rate, we are the Exarch of the Primal Voice, Avower of Tassada, Major of the Gaelian Special Detachment, Second First of Ka, and First of Ma'or, respectively," he said, indicating each PARTY member in turn. "And Chubbs, Keef's familiar."

The Celestial cocked his head towards the fiery pillar. "Killing Kazul is just a measure to buy us some time to confront the real threat here: Vora. So it would appear that while our first order of business is bringing down the Dragon God, there's still quite a bit for us to do in the hells. Including making sure that nobody ever takes you slave again, Sahnib."

In reply to Auriel (msg # 150):

Keef only shrugs when asked about Kazul, clearly disinterested in that part of Auriel's plan.

When reference is made to Chubbs and the "sled", he rolls his eyes in a "oh, you know how toads are" kind of way.

In reply to Keef (msg # 151):

"It would seem I am in esteemed company indeed," Sahnib says after a moment, though her expression shows that she isn't ruling out "insane company" either.

"I would see a god die," she says after a moment's consideration. "I will travel with you, and assist you with tales of Jannah along the way."

Lyriel, who had up to that point observed the proceedings silently, spoke up. In that case, we'll need to get you something more fitting to wear than those slave rags. Something befitting the free woman you now are. She cast an appraising eye to Sahnib. You look like you're about my size. Let me see what I have.

She rummaged in Stony's saddlebags, returning with a bundle of forest-green traveling breeches, tunic, and cloak. These she pressed into the Gaelian woman's arms. For a brief moment, a glimmer of the old Lyriel could be seen, an afterimage of the girl who would happily chat clothes and fashion. That image faded as Sahnib left to change, and Lyriel turned to the PARTY.

You understand she's likely to die if she travels with us, she said in and undertone, arms crossed. We are in the hells, here to slay a god. We don't have the resources to worry about babysitting an untrained civilian. Granted, her information might be important, but beyond that we can't risk jeopardizing everything for the sake of one woman. This last bit seemed particularly directed to Auriel.

"She's on her own, trapped in the hells, and even if she did escape, the OSA would continue to hunt her. With us, she has a chance," Auriel replied with a flash of defiance in his eyes. He opened his mouth to speak further, but fell silent as Sahnib returned, now clad in Lyriel's spare clothes.

"I'll not lie, the times ahead will be dangerous," he said to the woman, "but we're going to do the best we can to get you through this alive. We have some equipment that might help with that."

Auriel handed the woman a bundle of supplies.

[OOC - giving her 2x potions of cure moderate wounds, one of the katanas, one of the rings of Shield Other, and a dagger]

"If you're injured, these two potions will help. This sword is mighty in its own right, but I have its twin. If ever you get separated from us, wield your sword, and I will come find you. This ring will likewise provide some protection. And lastly, a dagger. Easily concealed, if worst comes to worst."

[Auriel will maintain a Shield Other effect on Sahnib at all times]

In reply to Auriel (msg # 154):

"Thank you," she says, looking at the items carefully and storing them in, on, and about her person as instructed.

She smiles slightly, and points toward the pillar of flame.

"Well then, what are we waiting for? Let's kill a dragon god."

I hope you know what you're doing, Zuriel, Lyriel said softly as Sahnib walked to the middle of the column. The priestess couldn't help but notice the Celestial flinch at her use of the name.

In reply to Lyriel Vesper (msg # 156):

The P.A.R.T.Y., Sahnib in tow, makes its way ever closer to the pillar of fire. Along the way, the former captive regales the group with stories of Jannah and its mysterious Emir. Though his name is not known to her, the P.A.R.T.Y. knows the man by another name: Darris.

There is little to learn from these tales that is not already known to the group, however. The population of the village is less than a thousand people, or it was when Sahnib took her leave. The people are almost entirely Gaelian, though there is a smattering of other cultures and races collected when the Chain Breakers struck slaver vessels bound homeward from foreign lands. Life is structured and rather dull, and the price for disobedience is high. Those who found themselves dragged before the Emir took care to never be required to make a second audience.

These and other stories are interrupted when the P.A.R.T.Y. comes to the mouth of an enormous cave, atop which the pillar of fire appears to originate. An equally immense stone inhibits passage forward, so heavy that any casual effort to budge it is immediately thwarted. To Boreas's consternation, it is made of a magical material that resists his attempts to dissolve the barrier, as well.

The words of Kazul echo through your mind as you read the script emblazoned upon the stone in Infernal, Draconic, and Common, with lines of verse beneath the heading:

Only The Worthy May Proceed
To stand before the Dragon's throne
The faithful must first move this stone

A bright light can be seen emanating from the seams of the boulder where it meets with the mouth of the cave; if Kazul is anything like Ka, Ma'or, and Tassada, you might expect this to be the portal that leads to the god's personal domain.

OOC: As a reminder, only Zuriel has entered such a portal unprotected thus far (you had shields when you entered Ka's prison), and doing so destroyed him. So... you COULD Boreas-port through the boulder, but if moving it confers a measure of protection perhaps that's not the best idea. Up to you!

Auriel examined the stone curiously. "Well," he said, covering his mouth in thought, "Kazul isn't guileless, exactly, but he does prefer the direct approach, it would seem. Shall we give it a push?"

To help with the task, the Celestial stretched out his hand to summon Shahara for the day. The usual circle of runes and flash of white light appeared, but when Shahara stepped through the portal, she had the notable addition of two wings of glossy, midnight-black feathers.

Auriel gasped as a chiming of distant bells accompanied the ritual, and a melodic, soothing voice burst forth. My gift to you, my dear First, as you and your friends prepare to face the darkness together. For those who had never heard the voice of Ma'or before, a sudden overwhelming sense of love, joy, and camaraderie pervaded every sense of their being. The very tones of her voice seemed to emphasize the fact that though they were in the depths of the burning Hells, they were not alone.

Would that I could do more to aid you heroes, but my power is sorely limited in the dreadful realms you now walk. Go forth with my love. You carry the hopes of us all. As the goddess spoke, the saddlebags opened, revealing a large assortment of cakes, tarts, and pastries carefully packed within.

Shahara, now a Celestial Pegasus, whinnied and preened under the sudden attention. Remember, all of you, Ma'or said in a parting echo, Friendship is Magic!
This message was last edited by the player at 15:35, Mon 28 Dec 2015.

After the PARTY has had a chance to enjoy a short break of desserts packed with a Goddess' love and care, Shahara and Auriel walk over to the boulder, intent on doing something about it.

Pegasus and rider set themselves against the stone, heaving with all their might.

[Strength Check: 26]

In reply to Auriel (msg # 159):

The stone budges but the scantest inch -- nowhere near enough to bypass the obstacle. As they strain against the boulder, both Auriel and Shahara flicker with a faint yellow light that matches the color of the aura of the energy emanating behind the stone.

In reply to DM (msg # 160):

Sahnib rolls up her sleeves and moves over to help. The moment she does so, the yellowish aura extends to her, as well.

Lyriel, despite the dubious aura, rolls up her sleeves and puts her back into the stone as well.

I'm not much good for pushing, but if we want the rock gone, I can help.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 163):

Keef braces himself and puts what weight he has against the rock.

Chubbs sighs and hops over to the stone, throwing his mass briefly against it.

If it moves, all glory to him.

If not, it wasn't important anyway.

In reply to Keef (msg # 164):

Chubbs, Keef, and (ostensibly) Boreas and Maeve join in, and their combined efforts manage to roll away the stone just enough to clear the passage for a medium-sized humanoid. The pale yellow light stretches out to encompass each of the P.A.R.T.Y. members (and Sahnib), and the yearning maw of the portal beckons.

In reply to DM (msg # 165):

Chubbs, having contributed the final and most essential part of the effort, celebrates by falling asleep on Auriel's boot.

He neither notices nor cares when he is kicked off.

Auriel entered the portal, along with - after a fair bit of squeezing and shoving - Shahara.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 167):

The P.A.R.T.Y. passes carefully into the portal, muscling their mounts and/or toads along as needed. The scenery swirls, as does their collective vision, and they find themselves... somewhere else.

The ground stretches out for miles in all directions, and crunches beneath your boots as you walk. A cursory glance reveals that the ground is not stone or earth, but rather a layer of coins, gems, and precious metals at least a foot deep. It makes for a less than solid walking experience, but can be trod upon safely, even by the mounts.

There are few landmarks besides the portal itself: a pedestal upon which a man-sized ruby has been placed, emblazoned with the Serpentsworn seal. A sea of smaller pedestals encircle it, each of which hosts a large, rock-like orb that looks very much like an egg. Standing shackled with their arms above their heads, bound by chains at the ankles and wrists to the base of each pedestal, you can see what you suspect to be ragged humanoid figures or perhaps statues. This area is a good 100 feet away, so it's hard to get a better look than that from where you're standing.

Behind the P.A.R.T.Y. stands the silently flickering portal.

The sky looks like a blanket of twilight with neither star nor cloud to mar it. There is a single moon with an oddly slitted shadow, which runs down the center and widens in the middle.

It takes a few moments before you realize that the moon resembles a reptilian eye, and that it is focused squarely on the P.A.R.T.Y.

THUS THE MIGHTY ENTER PARADISE, a rumbling voice exclaims. The ground clinks and trembles with every word, as though threatening to churn into a tidal wave of treasure at any moment. THUS THE ENEMIES OF THE DRAGON LIMP INTO ITS LAIR.

The moon shimmers and swirls and vanishes, and soon the sky is engulfed by the visage of an impossibly immense dragon. Its scales shine as though bedecked in gold, silver, and platinum, such that it is impossible to tell its color -- not that there is any question, of course.

The dragon remains airborne and unleashes a mighty roar before closing to a slightly more comfortable speaking distance. The P.A.R.T.Y. notices that the yellowish auras persist around them, and seems to be sizzling as though they are somehow protecting the occupants from being overwhelmed by the mere "majesty" of the dragon's presence.

YOU ARE SERVITORS OF KA, the dragon roars. YOU HAVE WAGED WAR AGAINST THE SERPENTSWORN. YOU ARE DRAGONSLAYERS. YOU HAVE SPARKED A REVOLUTION IN THE HEAVENS AND HELLS ALIKE. YOU ARE BENEATH CONTEMPT.

The dragon lands heavily upon the ground, now only 50 feet from the P.A.R.T.Y., and those present can see that his scales glisten not with golden treasure, but with blood. A terrifying amount of it, which continues to ooze unchecked from a hundred wounds.

YOU HAVE AWAKENED ANCIENT ENTITIES WHICH IMPERIL THE VERY BALANCE OF EXISTENCE. the dragon continues, his expression murderous beneath the gore. This proves all the more unsettling because this dragon is by far the largest living thing any of you have ever seen. AND YOU HAVE COME TO TELL ME WHY.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:28, Tue 05 Jan 2016.

As Auriel predictably opened his mouth to speak first, he was interrupted by a sudden outburst from Lyriel.

No! she exclaimed emphatically. I for one, am no servant of Ka, nor Vora. I'm not here to push scales out of balance. I'm here to right them.

Lyriel drew her newly-forged sword in the inky gloom. I am Lyriel Vesper. You have been a curse and a parasite on my family for thousands of years, demon. By your pact we were torn from grace, forced to pay for the sins of our ancestor. Our very souls held in your foul clutches. But no longer.

The priestess pointed her sword to the demon. By the flames of the goddess Herself, I will have Justice. I will have freedom from the chains of the past, and I will have your head!
This message was last edited by the player at 22:50, Tue 05 Jan 2016.

In reply to Lyriel Vesper (msg # 169):

The dragon looks down at the cleric with... disdain? Amusement?

But only for a moment.



Kazul's eyes sizzle and sparkle, and a tremor runs through the gold-laced ground at the cleric's feet.

[Casting: Chains of Avarice]
[Reflex (Lyriel): 17, fail]

Chains of precious metal and earth-forged jewels spring to life, ensnaring the cleric's ankles and wrists and pulling her into a splayed standing jumping jack position.

HEAR ME, PRIESTESS, LEST YOU CONSUME THE LAST OF MY PATIENCE. THE VESPERS' PACT WAS MADE OF THEIR OWN FREE WILL. THE TERMS ARE BINDING, NON-NEGOTIABLE, AND IRRELEVANT.

He turns to the others.

DOES ANYONE ELSE REQUIRE RESTRAINTS BEFORE ANSWERING ME?

~~ End Combat (unless you want to attack him, in which case, you have a round in which to do so!) ~~

OOC: Lyriel will require a Strength check of 25 or Escape Artist of 22 to break the grip of the chains.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:00, Thu 07 Jan 2016.

Auriel sprang forward in surprise, but checked himself from drawing his sword. Yet. He caught Boreas' eye meaningfully.

"There has been an Awakening. Have you felt it?"

"The danger threatening the world today is born of the mistakes of the Old Pantheon. They have been revived to restore order to an out-of-balance world. To correct the mistakes of the past. Lady Love charged me with this task, and I will see it through. This is a necessary first step."

White light began to shimmer around the Celestial as he stared into the baleful red eyes of Kazul.

"Those alive today ought not be forced to pay the price for the failures of their ancestors," he added meaningfully.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:26, Tue 05 Jan 2016.

In reply to Auriel (msg # 171):

THE OLD PANTHEON WAS REPLACED FOR A REASON, Kazul snorts derisively.

MA'OR IS A FOOL, the dragon rumbles. AS ARE HER FAITHFUL. YOU BELIEVE HER A PACIFIST?

SHE FIRST QUARRELED WITH KA AND THE PRIMAL VOICE. SHE WENT TO WAR WITH TASSADA, AND NOW... SHE HAS COME FOR ME.

The blood pooling around the dragon clumps and clots among the gems and precious metals near his legs, and begins to bubble softly.

PASSION IS IMBUED IN ALL LIVING THINGS. IT TAKES MANY FORMS. GREED AND AMBITION ARE AMONG THEM. LUST. ENVY. RAGE. MA'OR IS NAIVE TO BELIEVE THAT ALL OF CREATION CAN SIT QUIETLY ON THEIR CLAWS FROM THE EGG TO THE PYRE. THE WORLD'S RICHES ARE NOT EVENLY DISTRIBUTED, AND WHILE FREE WILL REIGNS, THEY NEVER WILL BE. IF ONLY SOME MAY PROSPER, IT SHOULD BE THOSE BEST EQUIPPED TO USE THEIR WEALTH: THE STRONGEST.

The dragon hisses softly.

I PREFER THE CHAOS OF OBLIVION TO THE INEVITABLE STAGNATION AND STIFLING OF EVOLUTION THAT HER PATH WOULD LEAD US TOWARD. IF YOU WOULD RESTORE THE BALANCE, YOU MUST JOIN ME.

His expression remains serious, so far as you can tell in terms of your familiarity with reading draconic facial features.

YOUR STRENGTH MAKES YOU WORTHY. AS SERPENTSWORN, YOU WOULD POSSESS THE POWER NECESSARY TO BIND THE ANCIENTS WHO THREATEN THIS WORLD TO THEIR RESPECTIVE PRISONS ONCE MORE.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:00, Thu 07 Jan 2016.

"Ma'or *is* a pacifist." Auriel replied simply, "But *I* am not. I lift the sword that my Lady cannot bear to wield herself. So it always was, for millennia before you ever broke free from your egg, Kazul. And so it shall ever be."

In the unearthly light of Kazul's shimmering embers, and Auriel's flickering aura, his face looked lined and ancient. "It is a grim burden, but one I would gladly bear for Her. I have always found love to provide a much greater reservoir of strength than greed ever could. You misunderstand her ways, Kazul, if you think passion leads to stagnation, but sadly we don't have time to debate philosophy at so late an hour."

He shifts in Shahara's saddle, wings twitching in anticipation of the inevitable. "The fact remains that there are too many gods for this existence to bear. And you have proven time and time again that you will crush any and all underfoot for naught more than your own vain glory, and love of wealth. Heedless of the pain and loss you cause all else." Auriel shook his head sadly. "This cannot be, Kazul," he said softly, "you should never have existed, and the world is the worse for it. You are a mistake, and one that falls to us to correct."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 16:16, Wed 06 Jan 2016.

Lyriel struggles vainly against her chains, which do nothing to improve her temper.

In reply to Lyriel Vesper (msg # 174):

Keef looks from one companion to the next, then raises one hand slowly.

I am for Ka... he mutters, almost too quietly to be heard.

In reply to Lyriel Vesper (msg # 174):

Seeing that his offer has fallen upon deaf and/or hostile ears, the dragon inhales deeply, expanding his chest such that he is as large as possible before staring down at the P.A.R.T.Y.

YOU WOULD CHALLENGE THE MIGHT OF A GOD, WHOM ONLY THE DIVINE MAY HARM? SUCH HUBRIS...

Kazul grins, showing all of his man-sized teeth.

...WILL BE DELICIOUS.

The dragon rears its mighty head in preparation of a breath attack, but stops short when the ground begins to buck and rumble beneath his feet.

At that moment, a blinding burst of red light appears behind the P.A.R.T.Y., who whirl toward the flickering portal just in time to see a shadowy figure pass through it.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:00, Thu 07 Jan 2016.

In reply to DM (msg # 176):

The figure smiles, doffs an imaginary hat in Keef's direction, and makes a throat-slitting motion in Kazul's direction.

"Long live the king," the figure smiles, brushing his fingers against the portal's opening. The yellowish portal becomes tinged with a reddish hue, and the coin-laden ground quakes all the more unsteadily.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:09, Wed 06 Jan 2016.

In reply to Ka, the Eternal Maw (msg # 177):

I INTEND TO

Kazul spreads his wings, roars mightily, and battle is joined... though the P.A.R.T.Y. notices a purplish symbol materialize in the sky as he does so. A symbol that looks an awful lot like the Eye of Cenadora.

Speaking of eyes, Boreas's emerald eye is aflame with an inner light unlike that which you've ever seen before. [Private to Boreas Highwind: I am with you, a Voice whispers in your mind.]





OOC: I'll update as soon as I know starting positions. Crossroads 'til then!
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:38, Wed 06 Jan 2016.

Reminder for the PARTY, buffs Lyriel had in place as you entered the lair (Inc. Sahnib, Shahara, and Sekmet):

Heroes Feast: +1 morale to attack and Will saves, +10 temp HP, immunities to poison and fear
Protection from Fire: Absorbs the first 120 points of fire damage
Resist Fire: After the above is depleted, provides resistance to fire 30
Prayer: +1 luck bonus to attack, weapon damage, skill checks, and saves

Specific to Maeve - Align Weapon > Good

Specific to Lyriel -

Shield of Faith (+3 Deflection to AC after stacking), Divine Favor (+2 luck to attacks after stacking), Entropic Shield (20% miss vs. ranged), Barkskin (+2 Natural Armor)

Auriel tightened his grip on Dawn, preparing to take off. "Stay behind us Sahnib," he murmured. "We're going to get through this," he said with more confidence than he felt.

Both Dawn and Ma'or's Pendant pulse with blinding light to the beat of a heart.

Buffs -

Righteous Fury: +4 STR, +35 temp HP
Greater One Mind: +2 Perception, attack, and damage to Auriel and Shahara while mounted
Golden Barding: +6 AC to Shahara
Shield Other protecting Sahnib
Potion of Heroism (+1 to attack after stacking, +2 to saves)
Divine Shield: +6 Shield AC
Infernalbane Sword
This message was last edited by the player at 20:45, Wed 06 Jan 2016.

We have come to maintain balance, the multi-faceted voice echoes from Boreas, his gem aglow.  If you must fall to do this, so be it.  I care not.

Moving preternaturally quickly, Boreas lays his hand on Lyriel and both disappear, only to reappear a few feet away sans restraints.  An illusory Boreas stands where the golden chains once were.

[Casting Walk Unseen]

The real Boreas flickers from view.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:56, Thu 07 Jan 2016.

Without any deities or comparable beings of terrible power to call upon, Maeve's preparations are minimal. She and Sekhmet position themselves within striking distance of the foe.

She finds that, for one of the first times that she can recall, she is afraid.

If I am to die here, today. . . . .then I suppose that death at the hands of a god is a pretty good way to go.


But if I have my way, that's not going to happen.

Maeve lets loose a fierce battle-cry, which mingles with her griffon's screech of fury.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:08, Thu 07 Jan 2016.

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 182):

Keef, presumably, would have clad himself in shimmering red scales of armor before entering the cave [Private to DM: (OOC: Battle Clad)]

Anyone paying attention to Chubbs (and he presumes you all are at all times), will notice that the fat toad also has his own shimmering red scales of magical armor.  The effect is that he looks quite regal and rather dashing.  As much so as a fat toad can.

In reply to Keef (msg # 183):

Sahnib, wide-eyed, draws her borrowed katana -- formerly, the Mirror's -- and holds it awkwardly in front of herself with two trembling hands.

In reply to DM (msg # 184):

The immense black dragon surges into action with alarming alacrity. It says nothing further, but flickers of magic surge into existence nonetheless.

[Casting: Meteor Swarm]

Four terrifying orbs of fire swirl into being, pausing to hover briefly before hurling themselves directly at Ká. Each of them strike the trickster before exploding, showering everyone nearby in molten agony.

[Direct Damage (Ka): 120]

Even Boreas is caught in the 40-foot radius explosions, which cause the P.A.R.T.Y. to scatter to attempt to dodge the worst of it.

[Splash Damage, Fire, Everyone: 80]

Fortunately, Lyriel's protective enchantments absorb the entirety of the damage, with 40 points of fire protection to spare. Nobody is even signed by the attack, leaving Kazul looking perplexed in the aftermath.

OOC: Roll a reflex save into your next activation. I will mitigate the damage accordingly if you make your save. DC 30.

In reply to Kazul (msg # 185):

Ká raises an arm over his face to protect himself from the searing flames as best he can, though being the main target, he has taken significantly more punishment than his mortal allies.

"You've lived long enough," Ká coughs once the fiery tempest has abated. "As you can see, we have come prepared for your tantrums."

Ká utters a few words, and he becomes far less distinct. A mighty bow forged of pure shadows materializes before him, and he fires a single arrow from it with a casual gesture. Mid-flight, the shaft splits into a half-dozen glowing missiles, which cascade into the dragon god's neck and chest with a vengeful fury of blue-black explosions. Some seem to harm the beast more than others, but a measure of damage is inflicted by the assault.

[Damage (Kazul): 30]

He glances at the P.A.R.T.Y. and nods in Kazul's direction.

"In case it wasn't clear, you haven't allied yourselves with a warrior god. Press the attack while your protection from fire persists."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:57, Thu 07 Jan 2016.

Lyriel is unable to avoid the meteor strikes, but prudent preparations prevent any harm. Still, she feels her wards weaken, which is cause for concern.

Springing into action, she hurls her arms outward, and with it, a wave of fire washes over the party.

[Casting: Holy Aura]

The fire clings to the party, but rather than burning, coalesces into a protective shimmer.



[Note that the Deflection Bonus does not stack with Rings of Protection. So if you have Ring of Prot +1, your net bonus to your AC is +3. Also, the save bonus sadly does not apply to the meteor shower.]

Interestingly, Lyriel extends the benevolent aura to Ka as well. Enemy of my enemy, Devourer. If you're going to join the fight against this evil, the Goddess will protect even you.

OOC - She buffs everybody. Even Ka, Sekmet, Shahara, Sahnib, and Chubbs.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:13, Fri 08 Jan 2016.

Boreas dashes to A10, firing a blast at the massive dragon and returning to view.

[Ranged Touch: 33]
[Acid Damage: 38]

The burst strikes home, hitting the enormous dragon in its head.  Acid sizzles and lingers on the skin.

[2d6 Acid Damage per round for 2 rounds.]

[OOC]Made reflex save: 33[/OOC]

The flames wash over Auriel and Shahara, neither able to avoid the onslaught. [Though Shahara does take half damage anyway, thanks to improved Evasion]

The Celestial's voice is raw in the scorched air. "Keef, if you've got any of that time magic at your disposal, now would be an excellent opportunity to use it to full effect!"

In reply to Auriel (msg # 189):

Keef likewise fails to dodge the flames.

He cocks his head at Auriel.

Time?  OH TIME... I see, you think that... well it WORKS that way, yes.

Keef claps his hands together and reddish energy sputters forth, striking each member of the P.A.R.T.Y. (as well as Ka).

OOC: Haste, 15 rounds

The transmuted creatures move and act more quickly than normal. This extra speed has several effects.

When making a full attack action, a hasted creature may make one extra attack with any weapon he is holding. The attack is made using the creature’s full base attack bonus, plus any modifiers appropriate to the situation. (This effect is not cumulative with similar effects, such as that provided by a weapon of speed, nor does it actually grant an extra action, so you can’t use it to cast a second spell or otherwise take an extra action in the round.)

A hasted creature gains a +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves. Any condition that makes you lose your Dexterity bonus to Armor Class (if any) also makes you lose dodge bonuses.

All of the hasted creature’s modes of movement (including land movement, burrow, climb, fly, and swim) increase by 30 feet, to a maximum of twice the subject’s normal speed using that form of movement. This increase counts as an enhancement bonus, and it affects the creature’s jumping distance as normal for increased speed.

Multiple haste effects don’t stack. Haste dispels and counters slow.

"Excellent!" Auriel exclaimed as Keef's magic washed over them all.

Shahara reared, whinnying in defiance, and threw herself into the air. As they bore down upon Kazul, the dragon lashed out with a massive claw, raking both horse and rider.

[Damage Shahara: 9]

[Auriel Temp HP remaining: 22]

Auriel lunged forward in his saddle as Shahara brought him into range, plunging a blinding Dawn deep into the dragon's onyx hide. The floor below was showered with an explosion of sparks and droplets of pitch black ichor, which fell to sizzle amongst the mounds of golden coins. Auriel's plate-clad foot kicked out of its stirrup, dealing another puncturing wound and kicking the Celestial pair away from the wounded beast.

[Damage: 81]

Auriel and Shahara turn as one to face the god, assuming a defensive stance.

[Combat Expertise: 5]

Maeve's turns is a total wash.  Don't have time to write up an epic description of her failure.  Carry on!

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 192):

Sahnib blinks as the fiery magic cascades over her, doing her no harm whatsoever. She does little else, but seems ready to defend herself if need be.

The violet eye in the sky glitters, flickers, and flashes, and a feminine voice can be heard.

Ká! You must not impugn the sovereignty of the gods! You know what is at stake.

The trickster shrugs at the heavens.

"I don't recall you having a problem with it when my role and Kazul's were reversed, Cenadora. I'm merely reclaiming what is mine."

In response, purple flashes flare to life around the battlefield, and in moments these flashes give life to several faintly shimmering portals, through which enter mounted heavy cavalry identical to those you saw assaulting Ká's temple rumble through it. This time, their gleaming breastplates and their horses' barding depict the Eye of Cenadora quite clearly.

As before, they cross the portal at full speed (they occupy their given square at the start of the round, but they are considered to have just completed a double-move action).




This message was last edited by the GM at 18:05, Mon 11 Jan 2016.

In reply to DM (msg # 193):

The dragon god roars with pain and defiance as the P.A.R.T.Y. beats the tar out of his tough draconic scales. Boreas's acid sizzles as it continues to deal damage.

[Damage (acid): 8]

Kazul glances at Ká for a moment, then ultimately settles on pummeling the celestial who was bold enough to fly at his face.

Bite (Auriel): 48
Bite (Auriel): 39
Claw (Auriel): 50
Claw (Auriel): 35
Wing Buffet (Auriel): 43
Tail Smash (Auriel): 46

Even a God has some trouble penetrating his truly ridiculous defenses, but many attacks still make it through.

[Damage (Auriel): 97]

YOU WILL ALL BOW BEFORE MY STRENGTH BEFORE THIS DAY IS DONE.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:06, Mon 11 Jan 2016.

In reply to Kazul (msg # 194):

That wasn't very sporting of her, Ká quips as the cavalry emerge from their portals.

He raises his shadowy bow and fires a shot at the violet eye symbol floating in the sky. The blue-black bolts coalesce around it, surrounding it with an eclipse-like shadow.

"Don't worry. I'll tell you how it ends!" he calls up to the sky, cupping a hand to his mouth to exaggerate the gesture.

In reply to Ka, the Eternal Maw (msg # 195):

Keef snaps out of whatever fuge he'd been in.

Keef raises his hands to the false sky.  A slow crackling charge builds up between his fingers, red energy snapping and dancing.

Anyone worth worshiping doesn't require bowing, he says simply.

The stored energy lances forth and strikes the great dragon in the side.

(Chain lightening, REF fail, 42 damage).

Boreas attempts to do a deft tuck-and-roll maneuver while moving up next to Auriel, but he stumbles a bit while drawing the wand of Heal.

[Tumble 13]

[OOC]Kazul may make an attack of opportunity[/OOC]

He touches the wand to Auriel's temple and a spark of white light bursts into a blinding flash.

[Use Magic Device (Take 10) 29]

[Healing 110 to Auriel]

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 197):

Kazul lashes out at Boreas with his sharp, sharp teeth as he moves through threatened spaces.

[Attack (Boreas): 47]

They sink deeply into the woodsman's flesh, causing pain and drawing blood.

[Damage (Boreas): 19]

Cavalry A charges toward Ká, leveling a lance of crackling purplish energy that looks to be comprised almost entirely of magic.

[Attack (Ká): 36]

The lance punches through the blurry defenses like butter, and the god grunts with pain as purple spark fly from the contact point.

[Damage (Ká): 23]

Cavalry B charges toward Maeve, but his attack merely plinks off the warrior's armor.

Cavalry C charges toward Auriel, but his attack, too, is deflected.

Cavalry D chooses Lyriel as its target, with more success than the previous two.

[Attack (Lyriel): 33]

The purple sparks fly as they did before, dealing damage.

[Damage (Lyriel): 19]

A new figure appears from the farthest portal, mounted and armored like the others except for the lack of any obvious weapon.

After stepping through, the figure appraises the battlefield and begins to chant loudly, wriggling his or her arms wildly while doing so.

[Casting (Unknown Spell)]

The coin-strewn ground before the figure takes on a purplish hue, and the faint outline of... something... can be seen hovering above it. Something large. The chanting continues unabated, but nothing further happens.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:36, Thu 14 Jan 2016.

Lyriel yelps in pain and surprise, taking an involuntary step backward. [0 Temp HP remaining, 9 actual damage]. The distraction makes it impossible for her to assess what the mysterious mage is up to.

She shoots a rapid glance at the unwelcome sudden enemies. Well, I wager my allies are better than yours...

The priestess closes her eyes, and shouts a single syllable, latent with power and portent. A shimmering portal of emerald fire opens in front of her.

Now, Lady S'daqah!!!

In reply to Lyriel Vesper (msg # 199):

A blistering plume of emerald flame jets upward from the portal, and when both the flame and the portal fade, in their place stands an armored, feminine figure. She's a Celestial, if the wings are any indication, but her bearing is somehow more radiant than even Auriel.

"We are the Emerald Flame!" the figure exclaims, her sharp eyes drinking in the battlefield. "We are eternal! We... find ourselves... where, exactly?"

The figure looks around the battlefield in confusion, but the dragon's roar jars her into the present. She whirls to see Kazul; a moment later, Dinah draws a sword from her side, which gleams with the hunger of a fanned ember.

"Kazul!? You were right to summon us," she declares, lowering her voice slightly. "Come. Together, we shall cut out the heart of the Serpentsworn. And afterward, we shall deal with the remaining traitors and Hellspawn we sense in our presence."

The ground rumbles and shakes as it did when Ká first entered the portal, and the tremors do not fade away entirely this time. The sky seems strained, too, becoming streaked with different colors. Even still, the powers-that-be pay such things no heed.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:17, Thu 14 Jan 2016.

Shooting a glance at the newcomer, Auriel's eyes widened in surprise. "Mistress Justice, fancy seeing you here! What's a nice Exarch of the Goddess like you doing in a place like this?" he quipped with a wry smile. "More the merrier I suppose. Plenty of Dragon here to smite."

With that, Auriel exploded into action. Aided by Keef's powerful magic, the paladin nearly moved faster than the eye could track, turning into a blur of arcing white light.

[Devastating Smite: Hit]
[Smite: Hit]
[Kneepad: Hit]
[Smite: Hit]
[Attack: Hit]

In the blink of an eye, Kazul received crushing blows to his wing joint, shoulder, neck, head, and throat. Sizzling black ichor sprayed across the ground in torrent, and even a god felt pain.

[Damage: 196]

"Do you see it yet, Dragon?!" Auriel bellowed astride Shahara. "Your strength is - and ever was - hollow. When the only thing you ever fought for is your own selfish desires, how could you possibly comprehend giving of yourself to something greater?! Something pure?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:39, Thu 14 Jan 2016.

Maeve is just considering whether or not to fly to Auriel's aid when the celestial explodes into a white blur of holy might and deals Kazul astonishing damage.

You know, I think he has it under control.

Instead, Maeve turns her full attention on cavalry B, who had the gumption to attack her.

[Attack 1 (cavalry B): 45]
[Attack 2 (cavalry B): 24]
[Attack 3 (cavalry B): 23]
[Extra haste attack (cavalry B): 29]

[Total damage: 90]

Cavalry B predictably crumbles under the onslaught.

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 202):

Sahnib continues to do little but defend herself.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:53, Fri 15 Jan 2016.

In reply to DM (msg # 203):




This message was last edited by the GM at 17:55, Fri 15 Jan 2016.

In reply to DM (msg # 204):

Blood oozes and seeps from the dragon's many wounds, and his eyes become glazed with equal parts fury and pain. Still, there's fight left in the god... though probably not as much as he'd have preferred.

The acid continues its work, dealing more caustic damage.

[Damage (Kazul): 7]

AS I PREDICTED the dragon rumbles, as though talking to himself. THE MIGHT OF KAZUL MUST STAND ALONE AGAINST THE USURPER'S POWER. I MUST... I SHALL... ENDURE!

Wafts of smoke drift from his muzzle, and he takes stock of the battlefield for a moment before committing to his attack. Perhaps in part due to the realization that this enemy can harm him after all, the God of Power makes a more calculated effort this time.

[Bite Attack (Auriel): 46]

First, he lashes out at Auriel with his mouth. The blow lands, but instead of contenting himself with chomping down on the fabulous celestial, Kazul instead opts to yank him bodily from his horse and into his yearning maw.

[Damage (Auriel): 27]
[Snatch + Improved Grab (Auriel): 54 vs 43, success]

Despite Auriel's valiant efforts to stave off the attack, he finds himself held in Kazul's mouth.

The dragon grinds its teeth, chewing savagely while maintaining the hold.

[Bite Attack -> Specialized Grapple (Auriel): 49 vs 42, success]
[Damage (Auriel): 32]

Kazul then turns his attention to other threats, lashing out at Boreas with his claws.

[Claw Attack (Boreas) x2: 44, 42]

Both attack hit the woodsman, dealing damage.

[Damage (Boreas): 31]

He then spreads his wings and uses them to buffet Boreas with another savage blow.

[Wing Attack (Boreas): 37]

The attack strikes true, further punishing the woodsman's good deed last round.

[Damage (Boreas): 9]

Kazul finishes his physical attacks by using his tail to swat at Boreas, who apparently has been deemed a worthy target this round.

[Tail Attack (Boreas): 34]

Another hit, and Boreas finds himself bleeding profusely.

[Damage (Boreas): 18]

His physical attacks spent, Kazul flares his nostrils to inhale deeply -- an action that is particularly unpleasant for Auriel, trapped as he is within the dragon's muzzle.

[Quickened Dragon Breath]

Kazul exhales a blistering torrent of searing agony, the fiery cone easily catching everyone involved in the combat in its blast.

[Fire Damage: 68]

The flames dance across the heavy cavalry, as well, but both they and their steeds seem entirely unphased by the damage. It would seem they took precautions against flame.

OOC: Make a Reflex save (DC 30) on your turn to half the damage. Recall that you still have a 40-point fire shield in effect, so even if you fail the damage shouldn't be too bad. Auriel is denied this save. Boreas, your damage does take your DR into account this time.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:58, Sat 16 Jan 2016.

In reply to Kazul (msg # 205):

Ká nimbly sidesteps the worst of the flames, reducing his damage significantly.

[Reflex: 32]

He looks down at his chest, which was pierced by the cavalry, and touches the impact area gently. Sparks of purple accompany this gesture, and he looks up, alarmed.

"Whatever you're playing at, Cenadora, I cannot allow it."

The shadow bow materializes once more before him, and a volley of six shadowy arrows fly toward Heavy Cavalry A. The bolts explode against the unfortunate target's horse and armor alike, and he drops to the ground, dead.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:35, Fri 15 Jan 2016.

In reply to Ka, the Eternal Maw (msg # 206):

Keef, either unable to dodge or unwilling, is caught in the flames with his friends.  The shield absorbs it handily (40 points used up, remainder of 28 reduced by 30 to 0?)

The mage raises his hands and again lightening streaks from his fingertips to the massive dragon.

The god flexes his mighty muscles and calls upon his evil power to flick to one side and back so quickly that his motion is a blur and he ends up in exactly the same place he began without stirring so much as a coin on the ground.  The movement is so fast that it possibly didn't even happen, but the result is that he is able to avoid much of the crackling energy Keef throws at him.

The bolt rebounds, continuing on to strike the cavalry as well.

(Chain lightening damage 52.  Cavalry A, C, D REF fail and take full damage.  Kazul made his REF save and so takes 26).
This message was last edited by the player at 19:20, Fri 15 Jan 2016.

Boreas rolls away from Kazul, not giving him the opportunity to strike.

[Tumble: Success]

A blast of conjured acid streaks toward the unarmed spellcaster, striking him firmly in the chest.

[Casting Vitriolic Eldritch Chain]
[Ranged Touch: 30]
[Acid Damage: 35]
[2d6 Acid Damage for the next 2 rounds]

[OOC]The caster must make a DC 45 Concentration check or lose the spell.  At the start of his next turn, when he takes acid damage, he will need to make another Concentration check, DC = 10 + half ongoing damage.[/OOC]

It magically bounces from him to the great wyrm himself, sizzling on its skin.

[Ranged Touch: 27]
[Acid Damage: 14]
[2d6 Acid Damage for the next 2 rounds]

And from the dragon, it strikes Heavy Cavalry C.

[Ranged Touch: 24]
[Acid Damage: 17]
[2d6 Acid Damage for 2 rounds]

EDIT: Reflex save success.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:27, Fri 15 Jan 2016.

In reply to Boreas Highwind (msg # 208):

Keef's lightning bounces around the battlefield, and appears to have greater efficacy than the dragon's fireblast did judging from the cursing, bleeding, and generally shocked disposition of the targets.

Heavy Cavalry D glances at his previous target, Lyriel, who is now standing behind an angry, armored celestial, and does a 180 on his horse. It charges through the portal from which it came (in A9).

On the other side of the battlefield, Heavy Cavalry D appears from a different portal (in J5), still moving at full speed. This takes his new target -- Ká -- completely by surprise.

[Attack (Ká): 37]

The god snarls as the lance pierces him, and purple sparks fly around him.

[Damage (Ká): 17]

The damage is less concerning than the purplish sparks, which pulse and surge over his entire body. And for the first time, you hear the trickster god scream.

"What the fuaaaaaaaaargh!"

[Feedback Damage (Ká): 122]

When the surge of energy finally comes to an end, the superficial outline of the Eye of Cenadora can still be seen on Ká's chest, as though written in purple glitter. It sparks menacingly... and is identical to the mark left behind on both Ká and Lyriel's chest after the previous round's attack.

Heavy Cavalry C turns his horse and makes a beeline for Ká as well (provoking an AOO from Keef and Boreas in the process if either of you are physically armed).

[Charge (Ká): 36]
[Damage (Ká): 16]

As before, the physical damage of the lance proves insignificant compared to the terrifying feedback that follows swiftly thereafter from the magical mark seared upon his chest.

[Feedback Damage (Ká): 118]

When the energy finally relents, the mark remains on his chest. Slick black blood pools from the god's ears, nose, and eyes, and he totters for a moment before steadying himself.

"Conduits... from Astria..." he coughs, waving an arm at the lances vaguely. "First hit establishes... connection. Don't let them... hit you more than once."

In happier news, Boreas's attack seems to have disrupted the unarmed cavalryman's carefully woven magics -- the faint visage fades entirely and the caster screams as acid tears through his flesh.

[Damage (Unarmed Cavalry A): 11]

The figure then begins chanting once more, and the faint visage returns in the same place... though no more solid than it was before.

[Casting (Unknown Spell)]

Another cavalryman arrives from the western-most portal, though he does nothing else save enter the battlefield.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:06, Fri 15 Jan 2016.

In reply to DM (msg # 209):

"We must be decisive," Dinah announces, immediately spreading her wings to take flight 10 feet above her present location and swinging her sword at Kazul without moving closer. "All Hellspawn must perish! As must their allies..."

[Casting: Tassada's Bolt of Glory]

A ray of greenish-white energy sizzles from the tip of her sword, hurling itself at Kazul, Ká, and Keef -- though the bolt fired at Keef looks less intense than those flung toward the others.

[Ranged Touch: 29, 27, 25]
[Damage (Kazul, Ká): 52]
[Damage (Keef): 21]

"Evil has no place in this world. None of you shall leave this place alive."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:08, Fri 15 Jan 2016.

Auriel struggles in vain to free himself from Kazul's jaws, but can't quite seem to break free. An irate Shahara flails at the dragon in an attempt to free her companion, managing to connect with a well placed bite at the base of his throat.

[5 Damage]

The pegasus seems to count this a distinct moral victory.

Milady! Lyriel cried out in shock as Dinah's attack crackled out towards Ka and Keef. I promised them the protection of the Goddess when they offered to stand against the Dragon! I have credible reason to believe slaying *two* gods here today will irrevocably upset the balance of the planes. Please milady, let us remain united in the face of the Dragon and Cenadora's puppets!

Lyriel darts forward, and emerald flames begin to arc and whirl around her.

[Sacred Boost: All Cure spells maximized until the end of next turn]

She then slams both palms into the ground, and searing light explodes outwards with a muffled whump.

[Quickened Maximized Empowered Cure Serious Wounds]

[81 Healing to Lyriel, Keef, Boreas, Shahara, and Auriel]

[[Edit: Lyriel deftly dodges the worst of the Dragon's fires, leaving her with 6 fire shield remaining]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:40, Fri 15 Jan 2016.

"Don't hurt Keef, you winged bitch!" Maeve calls, not really having the same respect for the deities as her friends.

[Attack (cavalry D): 39]
[Attack (cavalry D): 28]
[Attack (cavalry D): 26]
[Attack (cavalry D): 33]

[Total damage: 91]

Cavalry D, already wounded from Ka's attack, goes down with hardly any resistance.  Maeve takes a moment from the slaughter to study the winged newcomer with whom Lyriel seems acquainted.

I wonder if she might not prove to be the larger threat.

[OOC: Profound, I know.  Totally failed reflex save.]

In reply to Maeve Hassan (msg # 213):

Sahnib attempts to dive out of the way of the dragon's flames, but is unable to find a more favorable position. The magics protecting her spark and fizzle as they are largely consumed, though she personally looks little worse for the wear.

She continues to hold her sword before her in a defensive posture, contributing little but observing everything with rapt attention and eyes wider than dinner plates.

In reply to DM (msg # 214):




This message was last edited by the GM at 16:43, Tue 19 Jan 2016.