Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Thursday April 23rd, 2020 2:03:56 AM
(Good job DM - there was a lot packed into that DM post!)
Before we leave for the arena, Rill will have some silent conversations with Terser, Bralin and Fang about how we can best equip them for their challenge. As he learns that Terser does not wear a Ring of Protection, Rill will hand the dwarf his Ring of Protection +2 and an Ioun Stone of +1 Insight Bonus to AC to wear for the battle. Likewise, he will hand him his Boots of Striding and Springing to wear.
Yeah, the boots might not help much - just a little bit of speed. But the armor protection should help.
Anyone else have any help to offer? Perhaps we can get Bralin and Fang topped off as well.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Thursday April 23rd, 2020 2:24:14 AM "Good idea Rill!" Tahni will offer her Ring of Evasion to Fang as well as her Scarab of Protection. It's probably not a good idea to give all the items to one fighter in case they can't come back and swap them out later.
She walks up to Terser before he enters "When we first saw them, Grandpa was wearing a set of plate armor made from bone. He's going to be hard to hit. If you hit him, make sure it's hard" Wait. Look who she's talking to. "Good luck"
Tahni looks to the others "Do we want to bet on this fight?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday April 23rd, 2020 9:57:02 AM
Of course Aex will offer her gear to boost her friends. Any body parts that aren't filled yet should get buffs as long as they stack with the rest of their gear.
Ring of protection, cloak of resistance, ring of invisibility, headband of wisdom, bracers of armor, feather falling ring?!? Anyone? (just check char sheet for strength of each item if you need it)
"Potions are not allowed either? Else I have stoneskin, barkskin availble. Only 2 of each though."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC40 T16 F35, CMD 42 HP 251/251) Thursday April 23rd, 2020 10:57:46 AM Kozy Tickwicket is enjoying himself. Bralin observes over the team's rings. 'Ware traps. Spiked pits and such, mayhap
The dwarf will defer any magic item aid to Fang first. But, should someone have a spare Ring of Protection, he will be happy to take it.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Thursday April 23rd, 2020 11:17:03 AM
Fang gives all of her magic items she took off to one of the party members not fighting. She was not going to risk leaving them in the tent for anyone to come along and steal. When Rill passes of his ring she curses herself for not thinking of that herself. She wears very powerful protective gear that the others could use. She watches closely, trying to see if after Terser's fight there's enough of a pause for him to get back up and swap gear with someone else. If so she can pass off her stuff to Bralin.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Thursday April 23rd, 2020 12:53:00 PM
"Good idea, Rill." Seeing Fang's neck is bare, Jozhur offers his amulet. "This will help your attacks, it's rather special".
This wouldn't be the Chancer's Invitational without betting. Jozhur puts 1000gp on Terser to start out, if he has time to go place a bet.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Amulet of Combat: This stone amulet on a rawhide cord bestows upon the wearer a +1 sacred bonus to one attack and to the damage roll made (if that attack succeeds) each round in combat with a melee weapon or natural weapon. OOC: This is not stock magic item, and may not be bought or sold in the Catacombs. It takes up the necklace/amulet slot.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) d20+3=4 ; d20=1 ; d20+17=36 ; Thursday April 23rd, 2020 1:28:44 PM I wouldn't be a very dwarfy dwarf if I was nervous, Heather. But thanks for the concern.
Terser returns the bear man's salute. Heroes come from all places.
He's not used to worrying about getting hit, and hasn't focused much on armor. Like Tahni said, he tends to hit things hard so they stop hitting him. So with just a couple items from Rill, he feels about 10% harder to hit.
temp ac 25 initiative? what's that? nat 1 isn't doing me any favors though - total of 4 no knowledge of geography or geology, and that's another nat 1 (with no int mod) Perception is a bit better: 36 (or 38 vs stonework and traps)
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+8=16 ; d20+2=10 ; d20+3=21 ; d20+22=38 ; d6+6=11 ; d6=4 ; Thursday April 23rd, 2020 2:37:45 PM
The Sea Dragons take time to bedeck their own, augmenting them with as many magical items as they can. Boots, belts, gloves, and amulets are shared, and suddenly the three chosen warriors feel much more powerful than before. Rill, Fang, Jozhur, Aexana, and Tahni all add items to their fellows kits. Terser receives the lions share, but Bralin and Fang both also get some items, and the intent is to share them between matches.
(Please make any adjustments needed for the gear given, or received, to your character sheets.)
Tahni ponders a bet, but Jozhur jumps on it. (You'll have todays post to be allowed to confirm a bet too.)
----------------------------------
Terser considers his opponent and the arena.
Know/Int Check vs Arena DC: Terser notes that the arena floor is covered in sharp wicked spikes. Some are barbed, some are longer than others, but no matter what shape they take, they are everywhere. Kozy's puns seem to have had a .. point .. after all.
Perception: Highest Pass. Terser takes note of Grandpa's equipment. He is holding a longspear at the ready position, which might nullify Tersers glaive in regards to reach. He's also aware that either from mutation, some natural evolution, or perhaps just individual genetics, Grandpa is not small sized, like all the other beastfolk he's met. He stands taller than Terser, clearly a medium sized creature. He's also got a pack of javelins, which seem to burn with a fiery enchantment, as well as a pair of bolas which glow with the same red flame.
Bonus observations from high check: Granpa's gear bears many gouges and scratches, mostly along the haft of his longspear, and the forearm guards of his platemail. His stance is wide and set for bracing oneself. All of these bear the hallmarks of a defensive fighter who knows his craft.
Terser leans the following: Grandpa has the Combat Expertise feat. Grandpa's tendencies will lean towards defense, rather than offense.
------------------------------------------
Just as Terser examines Grandpa, the old bear seems intent on the same. His hands clench on his longspear, and his eyes narrow slightly.
-----------------------------------------
The chorus of cheers and thumping in the stands grows louder. To the fighters in the area, its like a giant heartbeat, echoing all around them. Somewhere in the stands, Kozy is shouting his lungs out. Finally, the word, "Begin!" is screamed, and a loud gong crashes, signalling for the bout to begin!
----------------------------------------
Grandpa gains the early initiative. He seems to study the ground for a second, then makes only a slight adjustment before stepping forward and hurling a flaming javelin across the arena. It sails true, smashing into Terser.
Grandpa: 5 ft step, throw Javelin. Hits AC 36 for 11 physical damage, and 4 fire damage.
---------------------------------------
In the stands, people cheer at the extreme flight distance of the Javelin. It seems to be enchanted, clearly, for a first round attack. A particularly raucous cheer comes from Fangs team, who are missing Runt and Claw, but otherwise are all cheering for their fellow.
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 d20+38=56 ; d20+33=47 ; Thursday April 23rd, 2020 5:13:05 PM
Rill says through the ring, Terser, with those boots on you can likely reach him on a charge. (They add 10 feet to base speed.)
Rill will scan the onlookers, looking for construct and outsiders within about 1,000 feet and any undead within 30 feet. He also looks for anything unusual. (Perception 56, Sense Motive 47 opposing a bluff or disguise.)
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Thursday April 23rd, 2020 7:25:47 PM
Warren, I've been trying to reach you for several days again. Please reply to the slew of emails I've sent your way and the posts I've made on the Agents board for you.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision d20+31=40 ; Thursday April 23rd, 2020 8:25:15 PM
Tahni will match Jozhur's bet with a 1000gp of her own on Terser to win.
"I'd also like to place a 400gp bet on Terser winning for Kale" she says to Kozy. She feels a little bad for intimidating him and wants to make this gesture of peace. Gold is peace, right?
Tahni scans through the crowd to see if she can pick out any observers from the other teams.
---------------- Perception: 40
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Friday April 24th, 2020 3:04:15 AM
Fang shakes her head. "Give it all to Bralin, then he can give it to me when he's done with his match." Following her own advice she trades over her Belt of Physical Perfection (+6 Str/Dex/Don) and her ring of protection +4. She'll put on his belt and whatever ring until he's back so as to not lose them and just in case something happens (you probably won't need energy resist for this)
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Friday April 24th, 2020 3:42:50 AM
(ooc - not sure if any of the fighters took some of Aex's gear? Else I need to update char sheet. Please let us know where what went. )
Aex stays close to her friends but keeps an eye out on others around them. If she sees anyone she knows she'll give'm a friendly smile. Should she spot Bezos and he's not too far she'll wave at him and see if he's available to talk to. Should that be so, she'll thank him for the 25k, check how Gwendolyn is holding up and ... ask how Bokkun ended up against Khale...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) d20+14=17 ; d20+22=32 ; 2d8+9=18 ; Friday April 24th, 2020 11:24:04 AM sharp wicked spikes? or wicked shahp spikes? and I should have asked, is the ring of regen a no go for this bout?
Looking around at the spikes, it doesn't seem like a charge would be the greatest idea. He dances not too nimbly around the spikes to get a bit closer and hurls his own much heavier, sturdier projectile.
trying to avoid the spikes, moving forward to the 7 column. Got an extra 10 feet movement in case I need to avoid spikes. Attack with Dwarven Thrower - with range increment hits AC30 for 18 bludgeoning
The hammer cracks into Grandpa's armor and vanishes, reappearing back in Terser's hands a moment later. Terser peers across the arena to see if he got a solid hit.
Temp AC 25 HP244/255 after DR.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC44 T20 F39, CMD 42 HP 251/251) Friday April 24th, 2020 4:26:35 PM
Bralin trades belt and ring with Fang. He doesn't really need anything else.
He looks around to see if Xin is in the holding area.
-- Bralin gives Fang his belt (+6 STR and CON) and Ring of Energy Resistance (Fire, 20 hp)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Friday April 24th, 2020 6:36:11 PM
Fang looks over Aexana's stuff. "No, wait, she has a better ring then mine, you should take that. (+5 compared to my +4)
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+22=38 ; d6+6=11 ; d6=1 ; Friday April 24th, 2020 9:32:43 PM
Fang and Bralin continue the swap meet. Bralin looks for Xin and finds the old warlord sitting by himself, apart from the others. He is watching the fight in the arena through a viewing portal, murmuring something to himself under his breath. He appears to be razor-sharp in his focus.
Aexana figures Bezos is up in his viewing booth. As she understands it, the matches are supposed to be random. Rill sends information to Terser, who doesn't answer. Whether the dwarf has a handle on it, or he's worried that using the ring constitutes using telepathy as a spell like power, Rill isn't sure.
Jozhur is silent.
Rills detection spells continue to work fine. He detects no undead. There appear to be a handful of constructs around, stationed wherever a couple of monks are on patrol. His senses fall also on a lone outsider, sitting alone on the other side of the arena.
The figure is small, wrapped in a hooded white cloak. It's face is obscured, but Rill is quite certain its watching him and the other dragons more than its watching the fight on the floor.
Terser moves up carefully. His hammer cracks against the bone plate, eliciting a deep grunt from the bearman. Tersers hit was solid, but so is that armor. With a careful scamper, the old warrior throws another javelin from his quiver. This one too, flies true, and stabs into Terser.
Javelin hits AC 38 for 11 physical and 1 fire damage.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Friday April 24th, 2020 10:46:51 PM
Jozhur closely watches the fight, drawn in by the suspense. He's pretty sure Terser will have this in hand when he closes the distance.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 42 HP 251/251) d20+14=19 Saturday April 25th, 2020 10:42:28 AM
At Fang's suggestion, Bralin swaps rings again. He gives Aexana Fang's Ring +4, and takes her Ring +5.
After spotting Xin watching the fight through a porthole, he moves to a different one to do the same. Convinced this man will be his most formidable opponent in ages, the dwarf is determined not to give away any advantage.
Bralin notes Terser's use of the Dwarven Thrower, without penalty, and stores that away.
Then, he observes the ground as best he can.
[Perception 19]
--------- Question - Will Bralin's Domian ability Hand of the Acolyte (Su) be allowed? You can cause your melee weapon to fly from your grasp and strike a foe before instantly returning. As a standard action, you can make a single attack using a melee weapon at a range of 30 feet
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) d20+24=26 ; d20+24=35 ; 3d10+32=45 ; Saturday April 25th, 2020 1:53:20 PM
Terser doesn't care to keep trading projectiles. It's not really his forte. He steps up to Grandpaw, powers up his body, and swings full out.
Move 10 feet, rage Power Attack, Vital Strike, Powerful Blow, Hero Point re-roll on that 2 Hits AC35 for 45 damage
current AC 23, HP 310/327 after DR and regen
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision d20+31=33 ; Saturday April 25th, 2020 10:34:44 PM "Woooooooo!!" Tahni cheers loudly for Terser. She takes her eyes away from the fight to look for the Fangs to see their reactions.
Perception: 33
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Monday April 27th, 2020 2:34:42 AM
Rill alerts three others to the small outsider that is watching them.
There is a small, cloaked outsider watching us from over there. Let's see if he will come talk to us.
Then he will use a Bird Feather Token to send this message to the creature.
Please come closer. Join us while we watch out friends compete.
Rill watches for the creature's reaction as the Bird reaches it and it reads the note.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday April 27th, 2020 9:53:02 AM
Aex grits her teeth as one javelin after the other comes crashing in on Terser. She'd love to jump in there and cast some protective spells on her dwarven friend. But then again... he's proven himself countless times in battle... oh look!! He charges... he swings... he SCORES!!!
The little greenmage cheers as Terser's glaive strikes through.
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+30=33 ; d20+30=46 ; d8+12=16 ; d20+25=26 ; d20+20=39 ; d20+15=22 ; d20+22=36 ; d8+16=21 ; d8+16=24 ; d6=5 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 1:43:18 PM
Jozhur and Aexana are both pretty sure that Terser will have things under control as he closes the distance. Tahni notes the fangs don't look worried, as much as they seem to be anticipating a particular technique to reveal itself. Mirri catches her eye and winks, before throwing herself over a very annoyed Mint to snuggle faces and cheer.
Rill alerts the team. There's a cloaked outsider watching them. He tries to communicate with a token. The small figure nimbly takes the note, reads it, then stuffs it in his cloak. He stands up and takes a quick look at the crowds, then sets himself in motion. He moves quietly and swiftly through the cheering people. His skill is obvious, never touching and never touched, he maneuvers through the bleachers.
A few moments later, and the small stranger is among you. He takes a seat between Rill and Tahni, wedging himself comfortably. The Grandmaster of Domi’s temple removes his hooded cloak and smiles a big, gnomish smile.
“Hello Dragons. Could I have a moment of your time?”
Terser tries to engage in a closer range battle. He steps forward, crashing his weapon into the old bear. Grandpaw howls in pain, then counters with a flurry of attacks from his longspear. The first is a dragging sweep, which takes Tersers legs out from underneath him. The impact on the spike covered ground is brutal, and Terser feels himself bleeding from puncture wounds.
Next a series of spear strikes crash into his armor, followed by a savage bite.
Order of events:
Full Attack from Grandpaw.
Attack 1: Terser is tripped and falls prone. Due to greater trip, Tersers fall provokes an AoO. Longspear hits AC 46 for 16 damage. (12 after DR)
Attack 2: Hits AC 26. Critical miss, rolled a 1.
Attack 3: Hits AC 39 for 21 damage. (17 after DR)
Attack 4: Hits AC 36 for 24 damage. (20 after DR)
Attack 5: (Bite, -5 for secondary attack) Hits AC 36 for 11 damage. (7 after DR) Environment: Terser takes 10 damage from the spikes on the ground as he is knocked prone. Terser is now bleeding for 5 points of damage per round, at the end of his activations.
Grandpaw scoots back a few feet, setting himself into a defensive posture. He points at Terser with his spear.
"On your feet, angry one. The floor here is not suited for winter naps. Come show me what a hero can do!"
He grins, or something like it.
"I'm just an old warrior. A tribal hunter. I have no fancy fighters college, no explosive seething rage. Just fighting for my tribe, hunting for our food, and repelling our predators. Surely that holds no candle to a hero the Wold?"
The Fangs of the Beast go wild, yowling and howling appreciation of their big warrior. Mirri and Kirri each wave at Tahni, then stick out little pink tongues in her direction.
Terser: Has learned the spikes cause bleed when knocked prone. He thinks it might be cumulative, and he figures other abrupt impacts with them might be dangerous as well. He has learned the spikes cause varying degrees of damage. He knows Grandpaw has greater trip. Given his taunts, he figures Grandpa is probably a level 20 warrior.
Take your 5 bleed damage at the end of your turns.
Grandpaw: Has taken 63 damage. (Known feats: Greater Trip, Combat Expertise, Combat Reflexes)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) d20+27=36 ; d4=2 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 3:24:45 PM
Terser is quite glad he kept his other ring on as his wounds knit themselves just enough to stop the bleeding. per ring of regen, immune to bleed effects
He levers himself up after the embarrassing fall and wipes the blood from his lips with the back of his gauntlet.
Were the forest beasts impressed by your talking? I'm sure you've been scared by a roar or two. It's no shame to be scared of me, too!
He lets out a primal roar, evoking thoughts of scary things in the forest. Terrifying Howl: Intimidate Check 36 vs 10+target HD+wis mod
On a success - target is panicked for 2 rounds (+1 round per 5 that I exceeded the target) Drops everything held, flees, -2 on most things
Move action - stand subs standard for second move - terrifying howl taunt - free HP - 255/327 rage round 2
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Monday April 27th, 2020 3:26:44 PM "The spiked floor certainly seems to favor this beast's abilities. This just became an interesting match."
As the Abbot arrives, Rill will address him.
"My good Abbot. Welcome. What is it you wish to discuss? Did you find out who controls those construct monks you have running around?"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 42 HP 251/251) d20+14=15 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 6:53:12 PM
Bralin winces as Grandpaw unleashes a trip attack, one particularly effective on this terrain.
The dwarf glances back over at Xin, trying to determine if he also prefers that method of attack. [Perception 15}
--- OOC Question - Will Bralin's Domian ability Hand of the Acolyte (Su) be allowed? You can cause your melee weapon to fly from your grasp and strike a foe before instantly returning. As a standard action, you can make a single attack using a melee weapon at a range of 30 feet
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Monday April 27th, 2020 7:11:41 PM
Fang looks over to the newcomer ready to listen attentively but gets distracted by the sudden roar in the arena.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Monday April 27th, 2020 7:19:42 PM
Mirri and Kirri. Those two really know how to get under Tahni's skin. She's tempted to make hand gestures back to the pair to try and explain what they can do to each other, but decides not to stoop down to their level.
Besides, she has every confidence that Terser has this in hand and it will be all the sweeter to see their faces afterwards.
"Yes. A spiked floor certainly favors someone adept at tripping. I wonder who the Fang's had to pay off for Grandpaw to get that draw" Tahni barely looks to the Abbot, only smiling quickly before returning her attention back to the fight.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+23=36 ; Tuesday April 28th, 2020 8:42:16 AM
As Terser goes down Aex jumps up surprised.
"Oh I can't look at this... " Aex sighs and turns around to face the rest of the crowd. (perception 36 for more unexpected spectators)
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+28=41 ; d20+23=42 ; d20+18=35 ; d20+13=22 ; d8+12=15 ; d8+12=18 ; d8+12=18 ; d20+28=32 ; d8+12=20 ; Tuesday April 28th, 2020 4:19:08 PM
Bralin can't really tell. The shortspears seem to be the most impressive looking weapons in Xids arsenal, and the warlords build is more lean muscle than hulking bulk.
[OOC Answer: Domain ability is a no-go. The dwarven thrower is an enchanted weapon, with the returning property which makes it usable.]
Aexana looks away from the trip. She sees no one particularly suspicious. Lots of contenders are around in the stands in various areas, but not as many as you might expect. Many seem to be predisposed with something else for some reason.
-----------------------------
Tahni watches the fight, growing in both suspicion of the Fangs and agitation of their antics. After a bit, she suspects they might have had something to do with the arena floor.
Tahni is suddenly aware of a young dwarf sitting next to her, though she's certain that he was not there just a moment ago. One hand is on her leg, and he leans quietly into her shoulder, almost as if burrowing or nestling into her warmth. His hand, and body, and frigid, and his quiet shallow breaths send tingles up her spine. The young dwarf is powerfully built for a beardling. Strong and stocky, with big brown eyes and bushy brows. After a moment, he pushes himself away from her, with some hint of sadness in his large eyes. He quietly drops a bag from his hand into her lap, but says nothing. Rather, he turns to stare into the area.
If Tahni checks, Rill detects nothing. In fact, no one else even seems to notice. Its as if this moment in time is standing still, and its just for her and this beardling, whomever he is.
----------------------------------------------
Rill's question is a good one. The answer isn't immediately forthcoming. The Grandmaster sighs, seemingly already bored by the expected question. He looks wistfully down into the arena.
“I could have won this, maybe. You know, I’m quite the warrior…”
He stares for a few moments longer, then like a child being peeled away from a children's play, he turns his attention back to the Dragons.
“I know this has all been very difficult for you all. Whisked out here to take place in some tournament, beset on all sides by intrigue and sin, not quite sure what you are looking for. All you know is that you are supposed to be looking for something, some unnamed foe that represents great threat to yourselves and the Wold.”
He chuckles a bit, stroking his eyebrows.
“And to be quite honest, I have no idea what it is we are supposed to be doing either. Domi wants us to make sure this tournament goes on, so that's what we are doing. I am fortunate in that I have a purpose that is at least partially clear. And to answer your question Master Rill, I still have no idea where the constructs came from. But maybe, that answer won't be on too high a shelf for much longer.”
He looks down at the fighters in the ring, chuckling at his own short joke. He seems to be considering their combat. His eyes, wild and untamed, calculate thrusts and counter-attacks, and he smiles again. "Your dwarf should have this, Dragon. The bear is a tactical fighter, and powerful, but all he has is experience. He's trying to keep Terser down because he's unsure if he can beat him in an exchange of blows. And he's right, he cannot. That goes double if he's pushed over the edges of his fear. Tersers rage is terrifying."
The spark in the gnomes eye dims a little. “I need your help, Dragons. Four people have gone missing last night, from four different teams, all of them team captains in name or in spirit. To make matters worse, all of them are scheduled to participate in the Magic Challenge, so you’ve got less than three days to find them, if you choose to accept this task.”
Tersers taunt hits home, and draws jeers and boos from the Fangs. The bear-man snarls. Tersers howl though, seems to have had an effect. (DC 31 to shaken, you succeeded. He is shaken for this round, plus one more since you beat the DC by 5 on the nose.)
DM Note: You have to first demoralize with the intimidate skill, followed by usage of Terrifying Howl of a shaken opponent. Terrifying Howl does allow a will save, and is different from just the demoralize skill check. (All shaken enemies within 30 feet must make a Will save (DC equal to 10 + 1/2 the barbarian’s level + the barbarian’s Strength modifier)
Also a DM note: Please remove 7 damage. NPC was not within 5 ft for him to bite last round.
"I shall not flee!", challenges the old bear. He takes a shaky step towards Terset, then fights for control of his trembling limbs. With a snarl, he launches into the exact same combat routine.
Effects: -2 to hit.
Trip hits CMD 41. Terser takes 10 damage from the fall to his back. Attacks hit AC 42, 35, and 22 for 11, 14, and 14. (Adjusted for DR). AoO from trip hits AC 32 for 16. (Adjusted for DR).
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 251/251) Tuesday April 28th, 2020 5:26:02 PM
Bralin watches the fight, and occasionally watches Xin watch the fight.
The dwarf begins slowly working through a stretching routine - arms, shoulders, neck.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Tuesday April 28th, 2020 6:17:26 PM well dang. so much for that strategy
Ugh. On my back again. At least I popped him a good one before the first hit.
Terser makes use of his unexpected strike ability to crack the old bear in the nose.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) d20+25=41 ; d10+16=23 ; Tuesday April 28th, 2020 6:24:30 PM woops, clicked post too soon. continuing
AOO when entering a space I threaten 1x per rage - AC41 for 23 damage
He knows he's gonna get cracked if he stands up right here, so he might as well yell from the ground. last round intimidating glare, this round terrifying howl. Will save vs DC 28
If Grandpaw runs, stand up. If not, Terser will roll back 10 feet to prevent a full round attack before standing up.
It looks like this guy has his number. He can't fight effectively if he can't stay on his feet.
HP: 208/327 Rage round 3
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp d20+28=36 ; Tuesday April 28th, 2020 9:33:11 PM
Jozhur is drawn into the fight. Smart strategy, not slugging it out with Terser. He also prefers to use his head in combat, rather than sheer rage.
He occasionally glances away from the fight, scanning the crowd.
Perception: 36
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision d20+31=50 ; d20+12=27 ; Tuesday April 28th, 2020 10:38:29 PM
Tahni grits her teeth as Terser takes another hit, but she keeps her eyes on the fight. As she feels someone place their hand on her leg she starts clenching her opposite hand into a fist before turning quickly to confront her assailant.
Fortunately it's just a child. Had he been any older he would have copped a punch to the face - at the least!
Tahni relaxes a little and smiles to him. "Hi there! You surprised me" she says warmly as she whispers quietly to him "Are you ok? What's your name?". It might just be that he is lost and came here for help. It would be unusual for a dwarf boy of this age, but then again, with all the other things going on around here you just can't tell.
She's surprised when he nestles into her but she instinctively puts her arm around him. For a dwarf boy to be so vulnerable is concerning so she squeezes him a little closer to try and comfort him. He's so cold though! Something is wrong here. Tahni keeps an arm around the boy as she pulls away a little, now quite serious and concerned. She looks him in the eyes, trying to get a sense of what is going on. "What is it? What's wrong?"
She tries to reach out to the others via the rings - all except for Terser. "There's a dwarf boy sitting next to me. There's ... something wrong with him. He's absolutely freezing cold." She doesn't want to say it just yet, but she's beginning to think he may be a spirit. Tahni looks to Rill for his reaction.
When the only response from the boy is to place a small bag on her lap, she looks back to his face and then back down to the bag.
Tahni withdraws her arm from around the boy so that she can use both hands to open the bag. She opens it slowly to look inside, being careful not to touch whatever might be in there.
----------------- Perception: 50 Sense Motive: 27
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+23=39 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 10:17:45 AM
Aex can hear the sounds of Terser and the old fang trading one blow after the other. Darned spikes... As she turns around to catch another glance at the fight she catches Tahni's message through the rings... surprised Aex stares at Tahni wondering if she's been hit on the head too hard...
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 d20+38=55 ; d20+33=47 ; d20+33=45 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 11:29:00 AM
Rill's interest in the arena is diverted. He listens to the Abbot, interested in what he has to say. (Sense Motive on the old man = 45)
"We are indeed interested in learning more about what happened to these team leaders, but we need to proceed carefully. Any information you can provide would be helpful. But we will proceed carefully. So far, we have been attacked and distracted in a number of ways, and this could be yet another...Uh, excuse me for a moment my good Abbot."
Rill's attention is diverted by Tahni's silent message. He looks in her direction, using his Deathwatch ability, as well as his ability to sense constructs and outsiders. Can he see or sense this young dwarf? Do his senses reveal anything about the bag she's opening? He will silently share what he learns with the others.
(Perception 55, Sense Motive 47)
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Wednesday April 29th, 2020 2:51:30 PM
FYI so the DM doesn't have to look this up for Rill,
Deathwatch - Range 30'. You instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct). Deathwatch sees through any spell or ability that allows creatures to feign death.
Sense Outsider - Sense direction and distance to any outsider, fey, demon, devil, or elemental within 1,080 ft., even through solid objects.
Sense Construct - Sense direction and distance to any any construct, animated object, or golem within 1,080 ft., even through solid objects.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Wednesday April 29th, 2020 3:14:43 PM
Fang glances over, doesn't see anything, then returns to watching the fight. She's aware she should probably be paying more attention to what's going on in the crowd, especially since kidnapping is supposed to occur today, but she's a sucker for a good fight and can't pull herself away.
Besides she can't see anything so it's fine right? Right?
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+8=22 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 4:33:21 PM
Bralin begins to warm up. Perhaps he's got his own strategies in mind? A fight is much different without a team of supporters. Jozhur scans the crowd, but finds nothing amiss, except perhaps the number of people not present from the assorted teams. Fang is also still just spectating. Aexana looks up at Tahni, but sees nothing other than Tahni holding a bag.
Rill puts the monk on hold for a second, who is only to happy to watch the combat in the arena. Rill detects nothing on any of his special senses. He neither sees nor senses the dwarf.
Tahni looks inside the bag, careful to touch nothing. The item seems to be a trinket, specifically a badge. The ribbonwork is red, and the metal a nice dark copper. The stamping is of high quality, and reads clearly. "Redforge Medal of Dwarven Valor". It looks like a name might have been engraved on it once, but that part of the medal has been made smooth somehow, and no trace of the name remains. Tahni feels the weight against her lighten, as she examines the medal, and the youngling is suddenly gone.
Terser continues his fight in the Arena. His surprise attack on the bear was a good one, and it caught Grandpaw unawares. Then, something else happens. From his back, Terser arches up and howls at the heavens. Eyes bulgling, Grandpaw suddenly is terrified of the monster he has been prodding. Dropping his spear, he turns and flees away from Terser.
Grandpaw: Runs. Running inflicts 5 damage, and 5 bleed per round.
Grandpaw: 73 damage. (5 bleed per round)
-----------------------------------------------
The Fangs jeer again. "It's a cheat!", one yells. "They rigged the terrain in Tersers favor! He's immune to the bleeding AND he's forcing Gramps to run over it! Collusion!
No one seems to be taking the charge seriously.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) d20+22=39 ; 3d10+28=45 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 5:50:07 PM
Terser pursues, glad finally to be back on the offensive. He gives a quick thumbs up to Rill in the stands for the boot loan, since it gives him just enough speed to get into range (and keep himself between Grandpaw and his spear.)
He delivers his one blow, aiming for weak spots in the armor.
Vital Strike, power attack AC 39 for 45 damage
HP 209/327 Rage round 4
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision d20+31=45 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 6:58:53 PM
Tahni immediately recognises the medal. These were presented to the Grim Guard for their victory at DrakesMeade. The victory of the dwarves of the Scab retaking one of their ancestral homes. Many lost their lives, including Captain Redforge - the man after who the medal was named. That was a long time ago. Many good friends she hasn't seen since. Tahni smiles as she remembers and her eyes start to water a little, lost in memories good and bad. She runs her fingers over the medal, brushing over it gently where the name should have been. "Where did you.."
And then he is gone.
Tahni leaps to her feet and looks about the people around her, putting her back turned to the arena for the first time since the fight started. Something has clearly bothered her. "Where did he go? The boy! Where did he go?!"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 251/251) Wednesday April 29th, 2020 7:04:34 PM
Bralin nods his approval as Terser gains the upper hand.
A few more stretches, and he will be prepared.
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Wednesday April 29th, 2020 9:28:48 PM
(I imagine that with a really high perception, it's hard for Rill to miss much.)
Rill sees Terser out of the corner if his eye, and returns the thumb's up. He also makes a mental note to make sure Terser never gets taken over by someone else. Yikes.
It's Tahni's situation that's more concerning. He says to her silently, Tahni, I don't doubt that you saw a dwarf, but it seems clear you are the only one that did. I did not see him, and I detected neither construct nor outsider. Perhaps you saw some sort of a ghost. The real question is why? A ghost is usually tied to a place or some act that needs to be rectified.
To the Abbot he says, "Tell me more about these missing people. My friend here just saw a dwarven ghost. Is it possible these missing people and her ghostly visitor are linked?"
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp d20+28=43 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 9:48:23 PM
With Terser gaining the upper hand, jozur relaxes a little from the edge of his seat. He starts paying more attention to the crowd and Rill's conversation with the Abbot.
Missing team members? Might be why a lot of the competition isn't here watching.. He looks around, trying to note which competitors are present. (Perception:43)
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday April 30th, 2020 10:22:03 AM
The little Greenmage casts a troubled look at Tahni... she sees things that aren't there. She starts rummaging through her ointments and potions hoping she'll find something to keep Tahni from loosing it.
"It's probably just the stress of the games... "
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List d20+11=21 ; Thursday April 30th, 2020 1:13:26 PM
Fang finally manages to pull herself from the fight. Invisible dwarfs and missing people? What? She looks around at the crowd to see if anyone was paying close attention to them or casting in their general direction (21 perception)
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map Thursday April 30th, 2020 2:53:02 PM
Tersers fight is suddenly becoming one sided. His foe continues to flee, leaving Terser free to make an AoO against him. Two, if he has combat reflexes.
Grandpaw: 153 damage. Still bleeding. Still frightened. The old bear seems to be on his last legs.
-----------------------------------------
Tahni looks around, borderline hysterical. She sees no sign of the boy, nor any sign that anyone else has seen him. A few spectators give her a strange look, then return their attention to the fight. One woman touches her arm lightly. "I'm sorry, have you lost your child?" she asks, looking concerned. Aexana, also seems to be worried about Tahnis sudden outburst.
Bralin is getting ancy for the fight. He hears a voice from behind. Its familiar, and confident. Xid speaks. "Fates are strange, master Bralin. It seems fate brought us together yesterday. Do I need to prepare myself for supernatural rages and awe inspiring fear?"
Jozhurs eyes are keen, almost as sharp as Rills. He notices that the entire Fangs team is present, as is I, Robot. But all of Dragonsound, The Sapphire Seven, The 1%, and Last Whisper seem to be missing, except those waiting in the ready area and set to compete.
Fang finally realizes there might be something going on around her other than fighting. Missing people? Ghost dwarfs? She looks around, and doesn't see anything unusual. Rill is certain that his senses and detectors are all working properly. He thinks it might have been a ghost, and tells Tahni as much. When he turns his attention back to the Master, he takes a moment to answer.
"Hrmm. Yes! What? I mean, of course." Clearly bluffing, and having lost the conversation, he apologizes. "I don't suppose so. I don't know much about ghosts, other than punching them takes work. Regarding the missing persons, the trouble is that these people are all quite powerful." He pauses, then names the missing persons.
"Han Valen from Dragonsound, Crall from the Sapphire Seven, Bezos from the 1%, and Xhuffie from the Last Whisper have all gone missing. Furthermore, Sea Dragons, I feel its best I inform you that The Last Whisper has formally accused you of abducting their team captain and murdering her, and is requesting we investigate you as the primary suspects."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) d20+22=31 ; d20+22=36 ; d10+28=36 ; d10+28=34 ; Thursday April 30th, 2020 4:54:29 PM
While he doesn't have combat reflexes, he does have quick ones (quick reflexes rage power - 1 extra AOO per round while raging), so it amounts to almost the same thing.
AC 31 and 36 for 36 and 34 damage
He almost feels bad about the fight coming down this way, but there was no way he was going to win if he kept getting knocked on his rear. He prepares one final charge, hoping to end the bout and call it a good game at the bear.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) d20+30=47 ; d10+28=36 ; Thursday April 30th, 2020 4:55:15 PM woops - charge attack hits AC47 for 36 damage
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 251/251) Thursday April 30th, 2020 5:48:02 PM
Bralin turns, and gives the man a faint grin. "Well met again. The gods do enjoy bringing us together as of late."
He slightly lifts his shield and axe. "I have not Terser's fearsome call, just these. And what of you, master Xin? Need I be wary of finding myself thrown onto those barbs by your longspear?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Thursday April 30th, 2020 6:40:46 PM
For those that may not be in earshot of the Rill and the Abbot, Rill will silently share, We have been approached by the Abbot of the monks for help. It seems four competitors went missing last night from four different teams, all of them team captains in name or in spirit. These are Han Valen from Dragonsound, Crall from the Sapphire Seven, Bezos from the 1%, and Xhuffie from the Last Whisper. To make it even better, The Last Whisper has formally accused the Sea Dragons of abducting their team captain and murdering her, and is requesting that the monks investigate us.
Bralin, perhaps you can ask Xid there what he knows about this. And why in the Wold would they would suspect us?
To the Abbot, Rill says, "Let me discuss with my friends and we'll see what we want to do. While it might be expected that a team would see this as a windfall, that's not how we operate. As for me, I'd forfeit the tournament if it were necessary to save these people, but perhaps it won't come to that. Your monks were in charge of security. What do they know? Were they attacked as well when this happened? Surely, someone must've seen something."
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Thursday April 30th, 2020 9:27:21 PM
Jozhur chimes in for the abbot. "I can assure you we had nothing to do with it, but I suppose that doesn't do much good. We will find them."
He looks to Rill and nods, We should get in touch with the Sapphire Seven and Dragonsound. I think they will be reasonable with us about this.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Thursday April 30th, 2020 9:53:54 PM "I.. uh.. " Tahni looks about the area and then to the woman. It takes a moment but then she smiles "No. It's nothing. I'm sorry if I bothered you"
Tahni retakes her seat and turns back to face the arena. Though looking towards it she isn't focused on what is happening there.
Why would a spirit visit her now? What was it trying to telling her? Where did it get this medal? Fang's sister, Terser's sister and now this spirit bringing up something from Tahni's past? Perhaps this is some sort of after-life? There's a thought.
She looks once more at the medal in her hand before tucking it away. When things quieten down she'll need to speak with Terser.
Tahni is completely oblivious to the discussions that have been going on beside her this whole time.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Friday May 1st, 2020 12:28:56 PM
Aex stiffens as she hears the Sea Dragons are being accused of abducting some team captains. She knows little of Han Valen, Crall and Xhuffie, but she does have respect for Sir Bezos.
If the little Greenmage is within earshot range of Rill and she catches what he's saying to the Abbott she'll come in nodding in agreement. She'd rather see our names cleared rather than winning a tournament...
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map Friday May 1st, 2020 8:35:53 PM
Terser ponders whether or he should feel bad, but lets it drop. He also lets his weapon drop, and after both hits, Grandpaw hits the ground, at -22 hp.
Kozy's loud voice screams into the arena. "Aaaand that's it for the first fight! It was a tense match, but Tersers loud noises and fearsome fighting were more than a match for Grandpaws trip tactics and solid mechanics!
A few people are loudly complaining about the way that Terser won, but he doesn't need to pay them any mind. It was a clean win, and hitting a scared fleeing opponent is a viable tactic.
Terser hears his sister hooting and hollering from the stands, leading a chant in his name. [b]Terser! Terser! Terser!
After a moment, a loud groan gives signals Grandpaw is conscious. He is staggering to his feet. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xid answers Bralin directly, without any real gamesmanship. "No. I'll be stabbing with spears, not tripping with them, until one of us falls over. I have no plans to let you nap in the middle of our bout, Master Bralin.
Heather gives Bralin a big pat on the back. "You're next from your group, but you still have a little bit. You and Xid are two fights away. Best of luck! Wait for them to change the arena and head on out. You'll be in the blue circle. Any questions about your powers or abilities or items?
----------------------------------------------
Tahni is very much in her own head space right now. The last time she saw these medals, it was in the Scab, as she recalled. Who was this young dwarf? Why did only she see him? She ponders if there's some force at work that's directly targeted all of them, since so far there's been a deeply personal issue affecting many of the Dragons.
Jozhur, Rill, and Aexana are all engaged with the the islands head monk. Jozhur and Aexana both want to quickly clear their name. Rill asks a few more questions, and gets a few more answers.
"I can tell you what I know, as told to me by those who reported their people missing. Sadly, my monks saw little. They are all less than you heroes in terms of ability. Anyone who can take someone on a Dragons level is far above them." He pulls a bit of parchment and hands it to Rill. As he talks, Rill sees that more or less, what he's saying is constant with the notes scribbled down.
Han Valen was last seen in The Village, heading upstairs to a room with two human females, a halfling female, and a pair of dwarven twins, who of course, were also female. Dragonsound is currently in The Village, leading an investigation of their own.
Crall was last seen in the company of his whole team, until he suddenly wasn’t. Per their report, he simply vanished. The Sapphire Seven are currently aboard their warship, the M.F.F. Contract.
Sir Bezos was last seen at the Chancers Pavillion, and had told Kale and Bitters he would be up to their viewing booth momentarily. He never arrived. The Chancers and the 1% are up in their booth.
Xhuffie was last seen by Tencent and Khloud.
Upon the last bit, the old monk shrugs. "They tell me they'll talk to you directly about her last known whereabouts. Something about it not being for your teams ears alone." He pats Rill on the arm. "For what its worth, exactly zero of my order believe you all kidnapped anyone. Further, while you've been formally accused, there's not actually a process for this sort of thing. It all lies on what the Chancers come up with should the accusation be found true."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Friday May 1st, 2020 9:07:09 PM
At the news that they have been accused Fang just rolls her eyes. The idea that Dragons would go around kidnapping and murdering people. She suspects that they don't believe it themselves and just want to get the strongest competitor disqualified if possible. They strike her as the type to do that.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Saturday May 2nd, 2020 3:35:19 AM "Huh? What?" Tahni is brought back to the present by the chants for Terser. He did it! She knew he would.
Tahni stands up and starts applauding loudly.
When Grandpaw gets to his feet, if he looks towards her, Tahni will nod and also make sure it's noticeable that she is applauding him as well. He seems to be a warrior of honor and deserves congratulations for the bout. For a minute there it looked like he may have had Terser's number. Not many can lay claim to such a thing.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Saturday May 2nd, 2020 11:32:58 AM
Terser was ready with a healing channel, but is glad to see that it wasn't necessary. He had his doubts about being unable to die in this battle, and Grandpaw isn't one he'd like to see gone before his time.
HE looks around the crowd, giving another fierce battle cry for the audience, and holds up Grandpaw's hand in his own. Thank you for a well fought battle, old bear!
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 251/251) Saturday May 2nd, 2020 11:40:03 AM
Bralin give Xin another nod, accepting the man's words for what they are.
He moves to the spot indicated by Heather, shaking his head in response to her question. "I have no more questions, thank you."
The dwarf moves out to the circle indicated.
To Rill, he responds, I haven't time to ask. But, if Xin is aware of Xhuffie's disappearance, or his comrade's accusations, he has made no sign of it.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Saturday May 2nd, 2020 6:21:14 PM
Jozhur nods his approval of Terser, and considers that Granpaw was actually a very skilled and formidable fighter. That could have became interested if Terser's intimidation hadn't worked.
He considers the information from the abbot. "If we split up to talk to the others, we should at least stay in groups. Crall disappearing in the presence of his team is concerning."
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Sunday May 3rd, 2020 2:34:02 PM "Speaking of odd occurrences, am I the only person who finds it strange that long lost relatives just happen to be showing up here? I mean what are the odds of Terser's sister just happening to enter the same competition as him when supposedly we were a last minute entry no one expected. Throw in someone claiming to be my sister, a prediction of a great threat hear, and now a bunch of disappearances and I think that there is something out there with a lot of power and knowledge screwing with us. The chance of all of that being sheer coincidence is just mind boggling."
She looks around, trying to spot the other teams. "While we're asking around we should ask the other teams about odd occurrences or wildly improbable events. If every team has lost relatives coming out of the woodwork or something then it's not just us being screwed with. If everything seems normal to them maybe we're the target and the missing people are to either get us to do something or somehow became a threat."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday May 4th, 2020 7:40:23 AM
Aex agrees with Jozhur. It's time to go questioning people but no one should go alone.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Monday May 4th, 2020 2:43:52 PM "The Sapphire Seven would be a good place to start. If we split up I'll go with the group that talks to them."
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d100=85 ; d100=91 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ; d4=4 ; Monday May 4th, 2020 5:06:35 PM Terser plays the crowd, and lifts Grandpaws arm as a thank you for a terrific match. Grandpaw staggers until he finds his feet, and roars into the crowd with Terser.
"I see you, Terser of the Dragons, and acknowledge you as worthy of your reputation. Your rage is a power as powerful as any magics. Bring honor to my defeat, and go far in this tournament." With that, he and Terser leave the arena.
---------------------------------------------
Fang is having none of the accusations. Further, she posits that its very strange so many of them are suddenly finding emotional links to their past in this tournament. She wonders if there's a power at work here, but none of her comrades carry the line of thought further.
Tahni gives Grandpaw applause. Not only does he notice, but so do Mirri and Kirri. Mirri gives her an appraising glance, and Mirri whispers something to Mint, the third catgirl on the team and their team captain. Mint gives Tahni a glance and a nod, then leaves the stands, presumably to go meet with Grandpaw.
Jozhur and Aexana are ready to meet with other teams. Rill, if he has any thoughts about visiting teams, has yet to share them.
--------------------------------
DM Note:Terser is now out of the arena and able to join you all in the stands. Once Bralins fight starts, Terser will have at least 80 minutes until his next battle. Fang Fights after Bralin, which means she has the length of the battle and twenty minutes to spare. If Fang and Bralin want to investigate a team, I'll allow it, since there's technically 40 minutes from the end of Tersers fight to the beginning of Bralins. I can just pause the combat for a bit. Let me know.
(Please let me know if you are planning to leave the arena, make sure your gear is updated correctly, and who is going where.)
--------------------------------
In the Arena
Kozy shouts over the din of the arena, calling the next two matches. Of particular note are the adjustments that the arena takes. There is a gigantic spinning wheel hanging in the air, which changes up the arena floor between each match. It seems to rotate between a picture spikes, a black oil, fire, and a strange mist.
Match 2:After Terser's bout, Seabreeze from the Talons of Aisildur goes up against Tencent from Last Whisper on a fiery arena floor. Though she rages and fights like a true warrior, Tencent easily defeats her when a paralyzing strike holds her still, and his savage natural attacks tear her to pieces.
Match 3: Fighting on the same spiked terrain as Terser, Jada manages to set her fight and defensively fight off Jon von Bovine, who was far too mobile before he figured out the spiked floors ramifications.
Match 4, is set to begin. Bralin watches the magical spinner in the air, as Kozy croons.
"This is it folks! Another Dragon in the arena, this time against [b]Xid, the resurrected warlord from the Last Whisper! And the terrain dial lands on .... The Silver Mists! [/b] Almost on cue, gouts of mist burst up from the arena floor, covering two sections of it in a deeply hued mist. Each mist is a different color, probably correlating with its effect.
Bralin: Please roll initiative. Please make a perception check. If you have at least one rank in Knowledge Dungeoneering, please make a Knowledge Dungeoneering Check, DC 15. If you do not have at least one rank in Know Dungeoneering, please roll a pure intelligence check, DC 20.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 251/251) d20+7=15 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+14=15 ; Monday May 4th, 2020 6:47:57 PM
Bralin lets his comrades deal with the mystery. The dwarf sticks with the combats. The entertainment with the wheel is irritating, as is the completely new environment he and Xid have earned for their match.
Letting out an exasperated sigh, he tries to make some sense of the mists. [Knowledge Dungeoneering 15]
[Initiative 21] [Perception 15]
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 d20+33=51 Monday May 4th, 2020 7:25:57 PM
Rill says to the Abbot, knowing his friends can also hear him, "This seems very strange. The leaders of some teams are missing, and yet their companions carry on in the competitions as if nothing has happened. I can assure you that if one of us were missing, we wouldn't give these games another thought until they were found.
"In fact, since we've been here we've been studied, prodded and attacked in an attempt to gain an edge in these games. Perhaps these team leaders have hidden themselves away as part of a larger ruse. Perhaps it's a distraction to separate one of us. Given what we know so far, it would be unwise for us to leave to investigate while one of our group is competing.
"I tell you what sir Abbot, we have some from the teams here now. Kindly have your monks bring those teams to us here at the arena so we can ask them what's going on and what they know about these seeming abductions. If that cannot be done, I think we should wait until Fang has finished her match."
It seems likely that we've been here long enough for Rill to get a sense from the Abbot if he is who he says he is, and if he's telling the whole truth about all this, and if he has some ulterior motive. (Sense Motive 51)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Monday May 4th, 2020 9:18:28 PM You got this, B! He thinks about asking for a heal, but a quick channel and his ring take care of his wounds.
To the others through the ring, he asks What's all this about kidnappings and such?
he knows - just saying for rp
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Monday May 4th, 2020 9:37:39 PM
Fang agrees with Rill. "To split up and investigate now would leave us open. At the very least the two of us still to compete should remain here in the open where we're hopefully safe from any funny business. Besides which if we really want answers we should talk to the entire team when we go to ask questions."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Monday May 4th, 2020 9:47:22 PM
Tahni starts to catch up to the conversation at hand. She nods in agreement with Rill "Agreed. let's see the matches finished here first, before spreading out to talk to the other teams. Bringing them all to us now might create an even larger scene, or have unintended consequences however. It might be better we speak with them away from each other"
When the time comes she will volunteer to go with Jozhur to be the ones to speak with the Sapphire Seven "Crall and I got along pretty well yesterday, and he gave me a chit should I need to call on him. That might show to them that we can be trusted"
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Tuesday May 5th, 2020 2:12:19 AM "I agree, after the competition. Wouldn't want to miss it anyways, especially this one." Jozhur is back on the edge of his seat, ready to watch Bralin and Xid slug it out.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 d20+19=36 ; d20+12=14 ; Tuesday May 5th, 2020 5:06:56 PM
It's almost as if the games are going passed them right now. Terser's victory was flawless and already the next is preparing... Aex congratulates Terser through the ring and wishes Bralin good fortune in battle.
If she can catch a glimpse of the mist Aex tries to identify it... (know nature 36 / know arcana 14) In any case she just hopes its no toxic or acid smog...
"I can try to get a hold of the 1%... had an interesting afternoon with them to say the least so let's hope some will speak to me now as well. "
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+6=20 ; d4=4 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ; d4=3 ; Tuesday May 5th, 2020 5:55:13 PM
Bralin considers his opponent, and the strange goings on in the arena. He recognizes the silver mists as a common dungeon trap. It seems that staying within the mist causes the stuff to build up in the body.
Arena Affect: The arena is split into 4 quadrants. Each round, colored mist erupts from one quadrants.
Red mist causes 1d4 fire damage for each round you have ended in red mist. Blue mist causes 1d4 lightning damage for each round you have ended in blue mist. Green mist causes 1d4 acid damage for each round you have ended in green mist. He remembers that ending a round in silver mist erases the all the prior buildups, but also has another detrimental effect. His check result was not high enough to recall.
Your DM will track the buildup effect for you.
Regarding his opponent, Bralin observes a few things of importance. First is that he has decided to start thing off holding his longspear and not the twinspears. The man also has a large shield in his possession, currently not wielded, as well as a chain shirt. --------------------------------------------------------------------
Arena Rolls: Red 4, Blue 1, Green 3 , Silver 2
Bralin wins initiative. The first move is his. He is dimly aware of Kozy shouting the crowd into a pitched fever, before all of them cease shouting nearly at once. Their voices are replaced by a low thumping, as eager viewers all stomp their feet and drum on the bleachers with their fists. The pulse is low and powerful, waiting eagerly for action to explode within the area. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Aexana, Tahni, Jozhur, and Fang all seem keen to wait. There's no telling what could happen to the missing people in the span of time it takes for the first two rounds of the tournament to end, but to be fair, they can't even be sure the missing people are in danger at all.
Rill thinks he should have a clear enough picture of the monk by now. While Rill is not omniscient, his sense of understanding and reason rarely fail him. He doesn't detect any deception in the monks words or his apparent motives. When he asks for him to bring them the other members of the teams, the monk shakes his head.
"I'm afraid not Master Rill." He starts ticking off reasons on his fingers. "First, the Sapphire Seven are already currently on their ship awaiting orders from their home command. There's the exception of Hin, but they are also under orders to participate in the games. They won't be leaving their ship unless they have a turn in the arena." Another finger ticks. "Second, Last Whisper doesn't particularly seem to care. They were paid and pardoned and resurrected to compete, so compete they shall. Tick. "Third, the 1% are sponsors. They would lose too much face by missing their rounds or pausing the games." Tick again. "Fourth, Master Rill, if any of these reasons seem flimsy, there's a final reason they are all competing. We are forcing them too, at risk of disqualification. One million gold pieces goes a long way for people, and avarice is a strong glue to keep these folks participating."
With a slight softening of his eyes, the monk looks down into the arena. He mumbles to himself. "Based on postures and fighting auras, I'd say Bralin will need to fight smart. Xid has more raw skill and experience..." Looking back up at Rill, he seems apologetic, yet determined. "The show must go on, at all costs. So says Domi, and so shall I administer."
He gets up and dusts off his robes.
"I've told you all I know. The rest is up to you to act, quickly or slow. Or maybe even not at all? There's always repercussions Master Rill, no matter the choice you make. I won't pressure you to make any decisions at all. Thank you for hearing me out."
With that, he gathers himself to leave.
-------------------
DM Note: All players collected good on their bets.
You are free to bet again. The odds on this match are 1 to 1. For every gold bet on the successful pick, you get your bet back, plus 1 additional gold.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 6:46:41 PM
Terser throws down his vocal, and monetary support for Bralin. 10 thousand betting discs, please! Or I guess just one, for 10,000.
Go Bralin! There's no beating a dwarf!
He considers taking the time to ask the spirits if the missing team members will suffer should they wait out the tournament, but it doesn't seem the time or place to be distracted for 10 minutes.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 251/251) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 7:04:38 PM
Bralin gives a little snort as he thinks on the mist. That Fire Protection ring currently on Fang's finger would have proved useful after all.
The crowd is craving a clash. They shall have to wait longer, as Xid's longspear urges caution.
Drawing his axe, Bralin lifts his shield high, steps into the red mist, and slowly makes his way toward his opponent.
--- Move to F15. Total Defense (AC 49)
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Tuesday May 5th, 2020 9:57:26 PM
Jozhur ponders the mystery to himself through the rings (excepting Bralin) as Xid and Bralin square off. There is not much to go on yet. We were warned of an unknown danger, and now competitors just disappearing. Team leaders too, we need to be cautious about Rill.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Tuesday May 5th, 2020 10:40:22 PM
Tahni collects her winnings and then places another 1000gp bet on Bralin to win. The bet she placed on behalf of Kale (for Terser's fight) should see 100gp make its way to him. That seems fair compensation for intimidating him and clears Tahni's conscience.
She leans in to Terser and whispers "I was given this during your bout" Tahni takes the medal from her pouch and shows it to Terser "It was, uh, some sort of ghost child that gave it to me. I don't know where he got it from"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Wednesday May 6th, 2020 11:14:09 AM
Fang watches but has no interest in betting. "If he had a ranged attack he could force his opponent into the mist. To bad."
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Wednesday May 6th, 2020 3:40:00 PM
Rill responds to everyone regarding to Jozhur's concern, Thank you Jozhur. I agree that at this point no one should go anywhere alone. I also want to remind you that you have a small statue of Gargul I gave you some time back. If you break that statue, I will be instantly transported to your location, provided that we're on the same plane.
Rill looks around to see if any of Dragon Sound are nearby.
"Aexana - you seem to have an in with the one per-centers. Any chance we could visit them in their private viewing area here in the arena to ask what they may know? That should be pretty safe."
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Wednesday May 6th, 2020 4:08:21 PM
Jozhur places 1000gp bet on Bralin. The one to one odds really catch his attention, the Chancers expect this to be a good matchup.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday May 6th, 2020 5:50:21 PM
Aex gives Rill a nod and says :"Sure let´s go find them... they´ll be up in their viewing box. "
With that said Aex assumes they will all go to meet the 1%. Once at the entrance of their viewing box, Aex will lightly knock on the door waiting for someone to answer...
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20=3 ; d20=15 ; d20=4 ; d20=4 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ; d4=3 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2020 6:53:15 PM
Xid makes a note of Bralins cautious advance. Gripping his longspear like a bow, he pulls back on a seemingly invisible string and fires a barrage of arrows! Two miss, and two thud against Bralins shield.
With a chuckle, he tosses the weapon aside and draws his short spears as he shuffles his position. "I didn't think that would work, but it was worth a shot!" He laughs at his own pun, then twirls his short spears before clanging them together. His balance is loose, and his grip falls to the very end of the spears.
Bralin, Perception DC 20.: Highlight to display spoiler: {He seems to be waiting for something, and seems to be trying to extend his reach. He likely has the lunge feat. }
Bralin has 1 fire buildup. Bralin takes 3 fire damage.
There is a whish of steam, and suddenly the elemental fogs change. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Terser, Jozhur. and Tahni start making bets. Fang is taking notes on the battle. Who knows what sort of arena SHE will get? Rill and Aexana discuss, and then decide that the 1% is as safe a place as any to start. They know where to find what's left of the team, and Aexana has a bit of a rapport.
The 1% are upstairs, in their viewing booth. When Aexana knocks, she hears a womans voice lift above the rest.
"Get that would you, Octavious? You're closer than I am." After a bit of laughter, an annoyed looking Octavious answers the door. When he sees Aexana, he shuts it again, amidst even more raucious laughter. A few seconds later, Razma, the noble who gave Octavious an earful about his immoral wagers opens the door again and sweeps his arms wide.
"Welcome, great dragons! Miss Aexana, I cannot begin to express how overjoyed I am to see you! Even as Razma welcomes the whole team inside, Octavious is seen fishing coins from a small chest, pouching them, and sliding one each Kate Bitters and Knight Captain Musk."
Aexana notices it is much more crowded in here than it was before. Chests, servants, belongings, books, and every Chancer on their team are all packed into the booth.
--any-- Sense Motive: DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {: Though they all seem to be carrying on jovially, its quite clear that the people up here are more than a little nervous, and more than a little scared. }
Rill detects no outsiders, undead, or constructs.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 248/251) d20+14=17 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2020 7:22:36 PM
Bralin doesn't respond to Xid.
Nor does he change his expression, his pace, his direction of movement, his stance, or the grip on his axe.
Inexorably, the dwarf moves forward.
[Perception 17]
-- Move to F11. Total Defense (AC49)
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) d20+17=30 Thursday May 7th, 2020 1:34:34 AM
Terser is focused on the match, watching as Bralin stoically advances. This will be a tense match.
He also looks over the pendant Tahni shows him, trying to place it. perception 30
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Thursday May 7th, 2020 3:54:32 AM "It's a RedForge Medal of Dwarven Valour" she whispers to Terser. She sounds very serious.
Bralin looks to be taking this one cautiously. That's probably a good idea against Xid. That was a nice trick with the longspear and the arrows. With spells not being allowed she discounts a number of magical ways this could have been done. "Must be a special longspear then. Interesting. Wonder what else it might do?"
She makes a note to check in with the group periodically - minus Bralin. She doesn't want anyone from the party to disappear.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp d20+23=36 ; d20+26=46 ; Thursday May 7th, 2020 11:30:29 AM
Jozhur tags along to the One Percent. He passes Razma with a "Thank you, good sir" and immediately heads for a place he can watch Bralin from. He also notes whether he can see the other Dragons (if any stayed behind).
He makes what he thinks is a pretty obvious observation, but he will relay it anyhow. Pretty nervous in here.
Aex returns the warm greetings she gets from Razma and scans the room. She does notice it's a lot more crowded than she was last here... and what are they so nervous about?!
Not willing to rub it in some more Aex nods at Octavius and catches an eye with Gwendolyn to see how she is.
"I'm not good with long and windy discussions... let's get to the reason why we're here... Sir Bezos is missing along with three other group captains. Some seem to think we're to blame for that... I assure you that's not the case."
She waves through the room with her hand and continues : "What's all this?!? You planning on leaving?! And... why so nervous... I get the feeling you know more. You know I never twist my tongue... Let's cooperate... please. "
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Thursday May 7th, 2020 4:48:42 PM
Fang tears herself away from the fight to follow along with the others. At seeing how crowded it is she wonders if they'd even all fit and tries to count the number of chairs available.
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 d20+38=41 ; Thursday May 7th, 2020 6:44:00 PM
Rill steps into the room with Jozhur, Aexana and Fang. His stark white garb and breastplate, obvious symbols of his God, and thin wisps of fog seeping from under his cloak probably make him hard to miss.
"Greetings. I am Rillett Savenport, pleased to meet you. This is Jozhur and Fang. You already know our dear Aexana." He's pleased that Aex has already made an impression here.
Rill scans the room with a practiced eye. (Perception 41) He actually a bit surprised there are no constructs, outsiders or undead here, given the way things have been going so far. Good. He can see that they seem prepared to leave from here - no doubt they have a means of magical transport.
"As Aexana said, we are very concerned that Sir Bezos and some of the others are missing. Surely people of your means have already sought to learn why and where he is. What can you tell us about this?"
Rill continues to keep tabs on his friends, especially Bralin, through the Status effect of the Dragon rings.
---------------------------- Status - You are aware of direction and distance to the creatures and any conditions affecting them: unharmed, wounded, disabled, staggered, unconscious, dying, nauseated, panicked, stunned, poisoned, diseased, confused, or the like. Once the spell has been cast upon the subjects, the distance between them and the caster does not affect the spell as long as they are on the same plane of existence. If a subject leaves the plane, or if it dies, the spell ceases to function for it.
(No need for the DM to answer anything this Status effect reveals if it's already covered in the post, such as fire or injury affecting Bralin.)
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+31=42 ; d10=1 ; d4=3 ; d20+26=46 ; Thursday May 7th, 2020 7:43:55 PM
Bralin isn't one for combat chatter. Xid seems to love the current aura of anticipation. When Bralins slow advance ends, he advances himself. "Seems like the smart maneuver would be just backing up and letting you trudge through this mist, but, that's not how warriors do it." Again, he clangs his shortspears together, then adopts a battle pose. His icy stare bores into Terser, and his posture oozes promise of violence just over the horizon. He is still holding his spears by the bottom of the haft.
Xid: Intimidate result, 42 vs DC: 30 (10+18+2)
Bralin is Shaken for 3 rounds. (A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks)
When Bralin stops in the silver mist, he takes 1 point, and he feels the fire build-up dissipate. When Xid stops in the green mist, he earns 1 acid point. He takes 3 acid damage. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tahni shows her medal to Terser. As another member of the elite dwarven force that roamed the scab. He recalls its significance. Not many were given out, so there's a very good chance he might know the dwarf who Tahni claims to have seen.
Jozhur, Fang, and Rill all pick up on the mood in the booth. Jozhur is more interested in the fight, and Fang is interested in a chair. There are none, but there's a quiet corner she could claim as her own.
Rill and Aexana explain why they've come, and as a few questions. Razma runs the back of his neck and grins sheepishly. "Well, you see... we figured you all would show up. Bet on how long it would take." He points at the distraught Octavious. "He bet you all wouldn't come, because he didn't get the vibe that Aexana would much care to help anyone affiliated with Kale."
Gwen pipes up. "I tried to warn our dear Octo otherwise, Miss Aexana. I know firsthand what kind of person you are." Razma nods his head empathetically and keeps talking. "Be that as it may, it sort of got us spooked. It's not that we are planning to leave, its that we think there might be safety in numbers. Clearly, our tent pavillions aren't safe. That's where poor Bezos was when he got nicked." He explains that the Chancers have a group of mega tents and pavillion style grounds where they usually stay."Bezos was last seen there. Both Kate and Sir Gallant were with him last." -- There's a tremendous clatter as Sir Gallant clumsily forces his way into the crowded conversation. He seems concerned.
"See here boy! You can't just drop a word bomb like that and let it hang in the air! It sounds suspicious! If I weren't an esteemed cleric of Domi, and not above suspicion, you might be putting me in a jam! They'd think I took the old golem!" From across the room, there's a sudden wailing. Kate Bitters suddenly drops to a knee, sobbing uncontrollably. "Could you brutes not talk about our dear Bezos in such a gruff way? He's our esteemed colleague and friend! Oh dragons, please find him!"
Sense Motive: DC 46
Highlight to display spoiler: {Kate is putting on an act, and a darn good one. The woman is a skilled actress.}
Seeing Xid's display, Bralin pauses. Surely this opponent is beyond him.
For a moment, the dwarf considers his options. And realizes he has none.
Wordlessly, Bralin moves in and attacks.
---- Move to F7 Spring Atk (no AoO), Power Atk, Improved Vital Strike Nat 20, Crit Threat hits AC 36 for either 27 (1 cold) hp if no crit, or 71 (1 cold) hp if crit.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Friday May 8th, 2020 12:12:44 AM
Jozhur listens to the conversation, even as his eyes are glued to the fight. He turns his head and raises an eyebrow at Sir Gallant's interjection, striking him as an overreaction to a non accusation. Kate's wailing causes Jozhur to shake his head. Clearly some hardened adventurers here.
Being all too familiar with keeping a story straight during questioning, Jozhur will suggest, through their rings, that they be pulled out of the room and spoken to separately concerning any details about the disappearance.
Young Jozhur's gaze remains on the fight. Judging by the way Xid holds those spears, there is something special about the weapons or he is about to see an interesting fighting style.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Friday May 8th, 2020 9:05:32 AM "C'mon Bralin!" That hit looked brutal. If Bralin's full force was behind it this fight might be over in record time.
She starts to wonder what the matchups will be if - or when - the party line up against each other. The crowds would be treated to a once in a lifetime show, that's for sure. The party would probably be prohibited from betting on those ones.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Friday May 8th, 2020 11:21:16 AM
Terser makes a mental note that his tricks against Grandpaw won't even slow Bralin down, because of course they will be the last two for the final. It's also good to note that Xid fights like that too, and plans on how to counter it in the melee.
He looks over the medal that Tahni is showing him, and finally connects the dots. The child who gave it to you...what did he look like? Do you think it could have been...?
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Friday May 8th, 2020 11:39:23 AM
Fang is really tempted to tell everyone to calm down and that other people vanished in a crowd too but Jozhur's comment over the rings reminds her that this is an investigation and she'd better shut up and let those competent at it do the talking before she screw it up somehow.
"How would a man like Sir Bezos be so easily overtaken without anyone noticing?!? Lady Kate, Sir Gallant... didn't you notice anything else? Where could he have gone?!
Nothing but questions...
So what are you going to do to retrieve Sir Bezos?"
Aex looks at Rill and Jozhur : "Perhaps we ought to start at this 'Pavillion'?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 d20+38=41 ; Friday May 8th, 2020 9:21:18 PM
Rill listens to all that is said, and does it best to look at what's not being said as well. Jozhur had a good idea.
"Why, no one could suspect someone of your stature Sir Galant. But, well, it's a bit noisy in here. Perhaps we can talk out in the hallway."
Assuming he comes with Rill outside the room, Rill also makes sure that he is alone with the man.
"Now, my good Sir Galant. Please tell me what you recall of what hapened that night."
Bralin comes within 10 feet of Xid, who suddenly lungers forward with a shortspear. The weapon glances armor, and Bralin steps through his guard. Bralins swing comes in hard, and Xid moves again, this time interposing a shortspear. The two struggle for a second, and the Bralins axe finds its way down through Xids parry.
DM Note: Please know, you cannot Spring Attack and Vital Strike. I took the AoO and missed, so you can have the Vital Strike damage this turn. Reason [link href="https://www.d20pfsrd.com/feats/combat-feats/spring-attack-combat/"]here[/link.]
Xid curses and clears his head. That attack hurt, a lot. He takes a deep breath, then launches into a large flurry of attacks. The first attack hits, and it hits hard. Bralin suddenly finds himself flat-footed against the rest of the enemy attack routine.
Main Hand Attacks: Hit AC 52 (crit), confirm 51 (confirmed). Shatter Defenses takes effect., hits AC 42, hits AC 34 (miss), hits AC 33 (miss.)
Offhand Attacks: Hits AC 34 (miss) and AC 32. (miss)
Xid takes 3 acid damage and has 2 acid buildup. Bralin takes 3 acid damage and has 1 acid buildup.
Xid: 77 damage.
--------------------------
Xid frowns, as he takes a minor step backwards. "I've been dead too long. Give me some time to warm up, would you?"
Bralin: You know that Xid has the Combat Reflexes, Lunge, TWF, Improved TWF, Dazzling Display, and Shatter Defenses feats. You are also aware that he has the Parry and Riposte feature. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jozhur isn't impressed by Kate. Or by Gallant, for that matter. Tahni has a pretty good impression of the brackets by now. She figures that its actually impossible for Bralin and Terser to meet in the finals. They will meet in the semi's, if that. There is a possibility though that the winner there fights against Fang, assuming she wins the bottom bracket.
Terser asks Tahni about the young dwarf. Aexana and Rill continue asking questions.
----------------
Gallant is pulled outside by Rill, so Kate answers. "Sir Gallant and I were trying to entice Bezos up here to the booth to watch some of our ..after hours spectacles." She sighs, and dabs at moist eyes. "Bezos wasn't in the mood. He rarely is, unless some of our actual team are doing the fighting. So we left him to his books and ledgers. No one saw him after that."
Outside the booth, Gallants version of events are identical.
Bralin's mind is racing. Xid nearly turned away his attack, and the counter was eye opening. The man is clearly more skilled in weaponcraft.
Without spellcraft, the dwarf's options remain limited to reliance on luck and a a great deal of armor.
He takes a diagonal step, entering the silver mist while also closing on Xid. The dwarf's axe whistles as it slices through the air.
----- 5' Step to E6. Full attack on Xid.
Atk1 - Hit AC46 (crit) AC 38 (confirmed) for 62 hp damage (3 cold) Atk 2 - hit? ac 33 for 19 hp damage (1 cold) Atk 3 - guessing a miss (ac23) Speed atk - AC31 for 21 hp damage (2 cold)
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Sunday May 10th, 2020 9:31:04 PM
Fang goes over to claim the quiet corner where she can hopefully watch the match and listen to the conversation.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Sunday May 10th, 2020 10:19:11 PM
Jozhur cringes when Xid lays into Bralin with his spears. He watches nervously as Bralin counters with his own solid hit. What a matchup.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Sunday May 10th, 2020 10:44:46 PM He just got lucky! Don't get thrown off, B!
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Monday May 11th, 2020 12:05:56 AM
Both warriors looked fairly equally matched. Landing the first blow might have been Bralin's saving grace here.
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 d20+33=53 ; Monday May 11th, 2020 1:35:25 AM
Rill does his best to determine if Gallant is telling the truth (Sense Moitve 53.) Assuming he is, Rill asks, "Was there anything else missing you returned to where you left Bezos? Any arguments or altercations Bezos had? Did anyone else stay behind, or go back to your pavilions early? By the way, what sort of skills, abilities or magic does Bezos bring to the team?"
Bralin keeps chugging forward, slamming attacks into Xid's guard. Xid again tries to deflect the attacks, with varying success. The first attack strikes hard and true, driving the warlord back a step. Growling in rage, he reacts in a blur, parrying all three of Bralins following strikes, and riposte's one of them, but the attack misses badly. (nat 1.)
His footwork mirrors Bralin, and he follows into the white mist. He takes another deep breath, and after a second of calm, launches into another flurry of attacks.
Mainhand: Hits AC 44 (Bralin is now flatfooted from the Shatter Defenses feat), 39, 32,(miss) and 29 (miss) vs Bralins flatfooted AC 35.
DM Note: There appears to be a discrepancy between your character sheet and your header. I calculate your FF AC at 10 + 14 armor + 7 Shield + 3 natural and +2 deflection? So 35? Let me know if I'm wrong here. One of the attacks hit on AC 35 on the nose.
Offhand: Hits AC 49 and 35.
Bralin takes 23, 19, 16 and 19 damage. Each of these ignore 5 DR. Total damage this round, 77. Please go ahead and ignore the last 19 damage if your FFAC is higher than 35.
Bralin is getting a feel for Xid's fighting style. He knows that Xid uses the Spearfighter Archetype from the APG, and that he's a 19th level fighter. He knows that Xid can use at least 5 attacks of opportunity a round. He also knows that while Xid can parry for each AoO he can make, he can only riposte once a round.
Breathing heavily, Xid is smiling like an idiot. "This is the good stuff, Bralin. This is why I always let them revive me, warrior. Everytime, the fight is glorious, and the opponent more powerful than the one before." He spits blood on the ground and motions to the ragged gouges in his chain armor. "Your the strongest yet, I think. A prodigy among prodigies with a nasty ax. You aren't the first dragon consortium warrior I've fought, you know." He straights up and rotates his shoulders. "Long ago, I think, I fought another warrior from that group. I killed him, then his allies killed me. I don't even remember why we fought, but you're tougher than him. You fight better too." He gets back into his stance, ready to parry and deflect. "Probably."
Xid takes 2 damage from the white mist and his energy buildup is removed. Bralin takes 6 damage from the white mist and his energy buildup is removed.
Meanwhile, Fang, Tahni, and Jozhur give the bout their full attention. Having watched every round, they seem to understand the maps intricacies. Each round spent in a colored fog causes an energy buildup that increases by d4 damage every round. Using the white mist clears this buildup at the cost of d10 damage. It seems the Chancers built the arenas with defensive fighters in mind. Always wanting to deliver a show, they found ways to ensure someone was always taking damage so a winner would happen in the event of a prolonged battle.
Aexana has suggested the group investigate the pavillion. Any takers?
Rill figures that Gallant is being honest in his recollection of events. He also figures the next answers are honest as well. "No, nothing was missing, besides poor Bezos. As far as enemies, he's rich. He's probably the richest man on the planet, having funded adventurers, crusades, and enterprise for as long as he's been alive. But nothing was taken, and his area of the Pavillion has more liquid coin in it than probably some small countries."
Gallant pauses when Rill asks about what Bezos brings to the team. For a moment, Rill is quite certain that his demeanor changes completely. He doesn't seem to be a sycophant of Domi at this moment, but a man talking to another man about someone whom he deeply respects.
"Bezos is one of the most powerful minds I've ever met. His observation and sense of people is uncanny. One doesn't have to have super powers like innate magic or the support of the gods to be powerful. He can hold his own, he's learned a martial art or two, but he's not a fighter of heroic caliber. He's no adventurer of your level, Dragon, but among us, he's undefeated when he has full access to his arsenal. Only the hired dog Bokkun would stand a chance, and that's if he got the drop on the ol' monster. Besides, like most of us, wealth is his real asset. Imagine what you could do with unlimited funds, Dragon. That's Bezos, without a god in his pocket."
Bralin has a +5 protection ring borrowed from Fang for this fight, which is not on the sheet. My count was 14 armor, 7 shield, 3 natural, 1 insight, 5 deflection + 10 base
Bralin gets his most powerful blow through. But, the rest are knocked away, and he takes a beating in return. Like his opponent, the dwarf also spits blood. Unlike him, he says nothing.
He can only hope his luck holds. The man is capable of turning aside every blow.
Yet, with Xid braced before him, his option is clear. Bralin wordlessly presses the attack, throwing all his might into the effort.
--------- Full Atk, Power Atk Atk 1 hits ac 29 for 29 hp damage Atk 2 hits ac 37 (CRIT) ac 28 to confirm - either 32 or 93 hp damage Atk 3 hits ac 27 for 31 hp damage Spd Atk hits ac 36 for 32 hp damage
ooc - gonna buy the die roller a beer after this...
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Monday May 11th, 2020 10:32:23 PM
Jozhur is completely glued to the fight. He is rather impressed that the Chancers seemingly nailed the 1:1 odds call.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Monday May 11th, 2020 11:10:07 PM
Terser is a little surprised that the announcer keeps mistaking his name for Bralin's. But a good dwarf fight might look pretty similar to another in this arena. He's not worried about his investment, but it would be nice not to lose it. Especially to a man that apparently lives to fight and die gloriously, rather than to fight and live for a cause.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Tuesday May 12th, 2020 1:08:04 AM
Fang's hearing isn't so good she can listen into the conversation happening in the arena over the crowd so she can't debate the merits of Xid's cause. She just watches and enjoys the fight while in the back of her mind wondering about the disappearances.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Tuesday May 12th, 2020 4:14:09 AM "C'mon Bralin! Shake it off. You got this"
It's a good thing these fights aren't to the death. Still, those blows must be causing a lot of hurt.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday May 12th, 2020 8:58:24 AM
Aex was lost in a daydream and tries to catch up with the discussion. She reckons everything that needed to be said was said so perhaps now's the time to go look elsewhere.
"The Pavillion?"
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+32=52 ; d20+32=48 ; d20+32=51 ; d20+32=39 ; d20+32=33 ; d20+32=39 ; d20+32=44 ; d20+22=42 ; d20+22=32 ; d20+17=25 ; d20+30=31 ; d20+24=33 ; d6+17=21 ; d4=4 ; d4=3 ; Wednesday May 13th, 2020 10:20:49 AM
In a flurry of motion, all of Bralins attacks are swatted aside. Bralins mind races. It might be better, he thinks, to land as accurate a blow as he can. Xids early lapses aside, the man is an incredibly skilled opponent who can turn aside most attacks.
Xids riposte scrapes armor and does little else. The warlord finds something about the situation amusing.
"There was a story in my homeland, Bralin. What your people would now call New Elenna, I suppose. There was a tortoise, and a hare. The tortoise and the hare were both warriors. The tortoise was slow and plodding, he said little and he trained little. The hare was a hyperactive little creature, always dashing about, training in the armory, and taunting his opponents."
Xid steps gracefully into his attack routine. Bralin has it pretty clear in his mind now. Two jabs, one high, one low, two cuts from either side, followed by two low jabs. Only one spear finds purchase, since Bralin is no longer intimidated. (Crit, doesn't confirm) Bralin takes 21 damage.
He backs up five feet and continues. "One day, the two are paired to fight before their emperor. The rabbit says he cannot lose, and the tortoise says nothing. Then the day of their match is upon them. They pay their respects to their ruler, and enter into the arena..."
Bralin takes 4 electricity damage and has 1 electric buildup. Xid takes 3 electricity damage and has 1 electric buildup.
------------------------
Up in the Chancers booth, everyone has stopped talking, and almost all have glued their eyes to the fight in the arena. It seems ready to end any moment..
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Wednesday May 13th, 2020 11:13:25 AM
An old twist on an even older tale. How intriguing. He's excited to see how it plays out, and excited to see Bralin give Xid the final wallop.
However much he'd like to see the rest of the fights and try to suss out future opponents' tricks, he's ready to head out on their hourish break to do some investigating, if only to stand around looking tough while Aexana asks the smart questions.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 100/251) d20+29=46 ; d10+14=16 ; d6=3 ; d20+24=32 ; d10+14=23 ; d6=4 ; d20+19=39 ; d20+19=20 ; d10+14=19 ; d6=2 ; d20+29=49 ; d20+29=42 ; d10+14=17 ; d10+14=22 ; d10+14=19 ; d6=3 ; Wednesday May 13th, 2020 12:01:46 PM
Xid's skills are impressive, and yet, even as his blows are turned aside, Bralin feels some regained confidence. He can win this fight.
Ignoring Xid's banter, for the most part -- Tortosie, hmph -- the dwarf follows the man, and attacks again. This time, he tries focusing on just hitting his foe.
--- Move 5' Full atk Atk 1 hits ac 46 for 19 hp damage Atk 2 hits ac 32 for 27 hp damage Atk 3 hits ac 39 (Crit) threat 20 (nope) for 21 hp damage Spd Atk hits ac 49 (Crit) threat hits ac 42 for 61 hp damage
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday May 13th, 2020 12:33:16 PM
Since there's no clear plan yet, Aex turns away from the window.
[/b]"Oh I cannot watch this... let me know when Bralin has finished this massacre... "[/b]
She looks around to see if there are some of those delicious pastries again.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Wednesday May 13th, 2020 12:52:58 PM
Fang watches with interest totally forgetting everyone else in the room.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Wednesday May 13th, 2020 4:56:55 PM
Jozhur continues watching the two warriors slug it out. He exhales the breath he was holding with an "Ooooph" as Bralin's axe slams into Xid. He watches in anxiously to see if Xid can keep on his feet.
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Wednesday May 13th, 2020 7:08:29 PM
Rill concludes that he's probably exhausted all the info he can gain from these privileged people. He thanks Sir Galant for his help and watches Bralin's duel.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Wednesday May 13th, 2020 7:17:38 PM
A couple more solid blows could end this fight. The only thing will be who does it.
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+32=47 ; d20+32=41 ; d20+32=52 ; d20+32=38 ; d20+32=49 ; Thursday May 14th, 2020 9:54:07 AM
Xid laughs as yet again, Bralin has nothing to say.
"The hare and the tortoise fought, the hare cut often and fast, chipping away at the turtles sturdy shell."
Bralins first attack is parried, and the riposte gets deflected by his armor again.
"The hare attacked from all sides, and all angles, searching for weakness in the Tortoise. When he couldn't find any, he knew it had to be underneath, the only place the hare hadn't attacked."
Bralins second attack is parried.
"The tortoise lunged forward, and the wily hare dashed underneath, seeking a soft spot in his armor..aaah!, Bralins third attack hits home, scoring a solid blow.
"And then.. " Xid goes all out, thrusting both spears out to block Bralins downswing. The weapons connect with a mighty scream, and the ringing of augmented metal echoes through the arena. The force of the connecting blows send shockwaves through Bralins bones, and magical sparks shower both fighters. The world slows down, and Bralin is aware of Kozy screaming into his microphone. He's aware of a crowd full of lusty cheers. But Bralin is a dwarf. An exemplary dwarf, and it wouldn't be proper to be distracted by such things. Meanwhile Xid is screaming, pushing back against his ax. Until suddenly, he gives a resigned smile.
".. the Tortoise sits, smashing the stupid hare. The moral is that sometimes, there's just no weakness to exploit, and the other fighter is just tougher than you, despite a life of training.."..
Unable to resist any more, his guard breaks and Bralins ax chops down through the armor, and into Xids heart. He falls to the ground, unconscious. Kozy screams into the arena.
"Another round in the books! Lets hear it for the stalwart fighter, Braaaaliiiinn!" The arena hums and vibrates with cheers and whoops. Over in the bleachers, the Last Whisper look completely stunned. Bralin has a chance to showboat, and a moment after, he hears a low groan from Xid, whose wounds have started to knit back together.
---------------------------------------------
Up in the booth, it seems that Octavious finally gets some gold back. A few other bags of coin change hands. Aexana finds more than a generous share of pastries and snacks.
Fang is going to be the next fighter up for the Sea Dragons, but she's got a good twenty minutes before she's due on the floor.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday May 14th, 2020 12:51:34 PM
Aex points at the pastries as she looks at Gwendolyn. All that fighting has made her hungry... She picks out one with lots of whipped cream and some blueberries...
"So dear", she says to Gwendolyn, "How are you... have you signed up for any of these contests?"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 while hasted) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Thursday May 14th, 2020 2:08:46 PM "Right then. Lets do this magic item exchange." she doesn't actually care if they're giving the 1% tips for their own matches. She takes her ring back and accepts whatever upgrades everyone has for her (I've forgotten what the options were XD)
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 100/251) Thursday May 14th, 2020 7:07:19 PM
Xid continues telling his story, stressing one facet that increasingly irritates Bralin.
Twin spears cross, catching the dwarf's massive downswing with a force that makes his very bones shudder. Bralin's axe remains wedged between Xid's spears, and his muscles shriek as he bends them to forcing his blade further. Meanwhile, Xid keeps talking
...despite a life of training..
"Mayhap," Bralin grates, his own voice echoing in his helm, "the tortoise trains too."
A last burst of strength forces the axe down, and the battle is over.
Panting heavily, Bralin lifts his visor, and raises his axe in a simple salute to each of the four sides of the arena.
Hearing Xid stir, he stows shield and axe. Bralin offers Xid an arm, pulling him upright. "You are a fearsome foe, Master Xid. Mayhap we can fight on the same side one day."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Thursday May 14th, 2020 7:50:16 PM
Tahni stands and cheers loudly for Bralin. That fight may have gone differently if Xid was concentrating rather than speaking so much.
"The strength of these combatants is very impressive. Perhaps some of the best the Wold has to offer. Once we have resolved whatever threat to the Wold is found here we should make a note of those that would make strong allies"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Friday May 15th, 2020 1:11:09 AM Woo great fighting, B! Never had a doubt. He doesn't mind at all that his purse is suddenly a little bit heavier.
He keeps an eye on where Bralin will be coming up from the arena, making sure that he's not out of sight for long. This is the most vulnerable he'll be, tired out from battle.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Friday May 15th, 2020 12:45:22 PM
"What a fight. That Xid is pretty impressive to hold up to Bralin like that.".
Jozhur removes his amulet and offers it to Fang, "This will improve your attacks. It's not much, but it helps."
------------------ Amulet of combat: +1 attack and damage to one attack roll each round.
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Friday May 15th, 2020 3:23:34 PM Nice work Bralin. If you think Xid needs healing I can help.
Fang, you may want to borrow my boots for added speed.
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map Friday May 15th, 2020 4:38:26 PM
Gwen laughs a little snort, then covers her tittering with her fan. "Goodness no. I can't stand pain. I was basically property just a day or so ago. I've no inclination to get in an arena with all of you fighters!" She laughs a little more, but her expression is warm. "I owe you a great deal, Aexana. Not just me, but someone else who neither of us have met yet." She rests one hand discreetly on her stomach. "I don't imagine that Octavious would scorn a child, but putting us on even terms is going to make me much more secure throughout this process. He doesn't know yet. He won't for awhile."
-
Fang starts exchanging items for her round. Rill and Jozhur offer her some gear. Terser and Tahni consider Bralin and Xid. Each have their own opinions, but both conclude that Bralin did great, as did Xid.
-
Bralin can't quite abide Xid's story. It left out the part about the tortoise's struggle for self improvement, and making due with what its born with. As Xid pulls himself upright with Bralins help, he smiles again.
"Perhaps, Bralin. I'd like that very much. But I fear we will be opponents again before we have the chance to be friends." Whether he's talking about the team melee, or some other event, he doesn't say. He bows, collects his weapons, and walks from the arena.
----------------------
"Alright people! Get that food! Place those bets! the next match up features yet another fearsome member of the Dragon Consortium! She's small, she's furry, but she's full of fury! It's Faaaaang of the Sea Dragons!" The crowd cheers loudly, clearly hoping for yet another knock down dragout. "Her opponent is part of an elite group of mercenaries, plying their trade all over the Wold! Fresh from their failed invasion of Aisildur and trying to rebuild their image in the wake of their quartering, and part of the enigmatic Sapphire Seven, it's Hin, The most handsome face in the Fist!"
Kozy goes quiet for a second, then responds with a loud gasp.
"Ladies and gentlemen, there's been some minor adjustments to the betting odds! Hin was our original favorite in this match, at nearly two to one odds! But insider reports tell us that the Dragon Consortium are amassing their considerable wealth behind each of their fighters! Who do they think they are, the 1%?!"
Kozy laughs and some adjustments happen on the big floating board in the sky.
"With this information, odds are adjusted. Fang is now the favorite in the match, with 1.5 to 1 odds! Fighters, please make your way to the ready area!"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Saturday May 16th, 2020 12:39:47 AM
Hmmn - I guess I should have bet big on myself. Seems they got wise to our gear switching. Some food does sound good though. Hey Heather - can you send the food cart this way? What's available in the way of a nice pasta? Gotta fuel up for the next match, you know.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 this combat) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Saturday May 16th, 2020 3:19:06 AM
Fang puts on the new boots, changes her +4 ring to a +5, and grabs the amulet (that I'm going to forget to add the bonus for on her attacks XD)
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Saturday May 16th, 2020 9:01:01 AM
Tahni stands in front of Fang to look at her. She hasn't really given a pep talk before so this will make for a first try "Alright listen. From what we've seen of Hin so far he looks like a monk. He's going to be fast and he's going to make a lot of strikes. He might be able to teleport right next to you. He might be able to spring forward, attack you, and then spring back from reach. I wouldn't be surprised if he pulls some moves on you too, so watch out for being disarmed or tripped. Grapples are a distinct possibility, and since you can't cast a Freedom of Movement spell in there we need to get you a ring"
She looks about the group "Jozhur? Any chance you could spare your ring for a few minutes?"
Tahni smiles to Fang when she is due to depart "Go get him"
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 100/251) Saturday May 16th, 2020 9:22:40 AM
Bralin gives Fang back her gear, while giving her his observations.
"Should the arena be configured for the mists during your match. The gases inflict ever building damage. The silver gas removes the cumulative effects, but at a price of higher damage for entering. Enter the silver mist every third or fourth round to optimize their effects."
The dwarf then checks his own status to see if his wounds are healing on their own, or need some magical assistance.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 this combat) DR 1 CMD: 25Spell List Sunday May 17th, 2020 7:12:45 AM
She also switches out her ring of water walking for the protection for fire one. It's unlikely water walking will come up during the combat.
DM Carl - Arena Map d4=3 ; d20+2=11 ; Monday May 18th, 2020 10:18:12 AM
Ken's out of commission today, so I'm stepping in.
Fang's teammates prepare her with advice and trinkets (please remember to update your header). Her time has come, though. She needs to head down to start her match. The rest of the Sea Dragons can only watch, and place bets, of course. Speaking of which, the crowd has erupted in noise as they clamor over each other to place new bets. Kozy sure didn't leave these betters with much chance to adjust!
Heather accompanies Fang to her starting position. "I know I said you should be able to handle this, and you should, but don't underestimate Hin. He wouldn't be here if he wasn't capable." Heather squeezes Fang's shoulder and smiles as she opens the last door between her and the arena. Fang enters and sees Hin waiting for her across the field. His usual bored demanor has vanished, replaced a calm that somehow manages to convey both peace and intensity. He wears only a loose pair of black pants, showing a wirey but chisled physique.
Kozy continues setting up the fight. "Let's see what's in store for our contestants this time!" He spins the terrain wheel, which lands again on the silver gasses. Immediately, the same four gasses Bralin faced cover the battlefield. "Fighters, the arena is yours!"
Fang, roll initiative please. I've placed you on the map, but the gasses will only start doing damage based on where you end up after your first move.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 100/251) Monday May 18th, 2020 6:37:50 PM
Bralin seeks out and joins his comrades, still bleeding from the wounds picked up in the arena.
"I could use healing," he informs them.
The gasses appear for Fang's bout, and the dwarf nods. She is prepared for this.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Monday May 18th, 2020 7:16:11 PM
Tahni shrugs as her suggestion is ignored and instead goes to find a seat to watch the fight. She decides not to bet on this one.
She doesn't wait for the medics to arrive to help Bralin. She casts a Heal spell, treating him for 150pts.
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Monday May 18th, 2020 8:24:07 PM "I was under the impression the Ring of Freedom of Movement was not allowed since it mimics provides a spell. Perhaps I misunderstood."
If there was a chance to clarify, he would certainly provide the ring to Fang, it is rather handy.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Monday May 18th, 2020 10:45:18 PM "Ah yes. Good catch Jozhur" Tahni feels a bit happier now.
Rill (MarkB) HP 152/152 - AC 28/20/26 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 12:31:06 AM
Rill turns his attention from Fang's fight and instead scans the crowd looking for Dragon Sound.
Perhaps we should seek another team that lost a member and see what we can find out.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Tuesday May 19th, 2020 2:01:01 AM It certainly would not look strange to sit next to them in the stands and interview them surreptitiously.
Terser had his bit of luck pay off betting on Bralin, he's not really the type to let things ride. Plus, Fang is so good, it won't really pay off that much.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 this combat, 20 fire resist) DR 1 CMD: 25 d20+2=12 ; Tuesday May 19th, 2020 4:51:29 AM
Heather's worries that Fang is overconfident are unfounded. While she is a skilled fighter a lot of her power comes from the blessings of her god. Without that she is probably far weaker a combatant and she is very aware of that fact. Still the contest is just a distraction from their real purpose here and her comrades can carry on without her if she falls.
She's slightly surprised to face the same traps as Bralin, but changing it every match would probably be to much work. She looks about for anything she can throw in case she needs a ranged option. (Clarification edit: She has throw anything so is looking for items large enough to be dangerous if she hurls them.)
(the ring of fire protection reduces fire damage by 20 right? Initiative is 12)
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map Tuesday May 19th, 2020 11:42:57 AM
The sea dragons in general discuss the options available to Fang here. Jozhur has it right. The Ring of Freedom of Movement specifically states it grants the user the effects of a spell. As opposed to say, the ring of energy resistance, which simply states that it protects against an element.
Rill looks for Dragonsound. He recalls being told they are currently heading up their own investigation in the Village, the area where the teams are living right now. None of them are in the stands, and their only representative was defeated by Jada, Tersers sister.
The only team in full strength at the arena is The Last Whisper, sitting together watching matches.
------------------
Fang takes her spot in the arena. She gets the same type of hazards as Bralin had, but she recognizes that it wasn't laziness, it was random. Each round a modification is selected. It was chance that she got the same as her pal.
She scans the arena for throwables. Here and there broken bits of armor and weapons are scattered about. Her DM will mark squares where suitable projectiles can be found. Her ring reduces fire damage from each instance of fire by 20.
Fang, you win initiative. Please also give me a perception check. You were told by Bralin how the hazard words, so you understand that one already. d4 elemental buildup per round spent in a given element. Going into the silver mist does more damage, but removes buildups.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP177/177 - AC29/21/24 - CMD 27 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/98 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 11:45:08 AM
(ooc sorry folks - been swamped and forgot to post - I'll catch up asap)
Aex has been lost in thoughts with Gwendolyn's confession. She's thrilled for her but understands Gwen prefers keeping all that to herself for now so the little greenmage refrains from hugging Gwen.
"Time to catch up with my friends now... take care dear."
(Brock) Jozhur AC27 / Touch 18 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 159/159 --Shadow Companion 79/79hp Tuesday May 19th, 2020 6:05:43 PM
Jozhur shrugs. "We could go see what Last Whisper has to say. Not sure this is the best place, though. I could leave with a couple other to check in with other teams.
He also rushes off to place a 1000gp bet on Fang.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC45 T21 F40, CMD 47 HP 251/251) Tuesday May 19th, 2020 6:57:22 PM
Bralin nods his thanks as Tahni heals him.
The dwarf volunteers to accompany Jozhur back to the village to talk to the other teams. Fang surely will fare well.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 22/13/19 -- CMD 20 -- HP 143/154 -- DarkVision Tuesday May 19th, 2020 7:35:26 PM
Fang looks ready to go.
"It looks like her reflexes are at top notch today. Based on your fight Bralin, you'd have to think that striking first is important"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(236 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 this combat, 20 fire resist) DR 1 CMD: 25 d20+30=35 d10+14=15 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 7:36:03 PM
Bralin took things slow and steady, moving up while defending himself from his enemy's ranged attacks. It worked rather well.
That's not Fang's style though. She rushes out the gate crossing the entire distance in seconds. She ends in the fire section and flies into a rage tearing at her enemy (35 to hit, 15 damage).
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 255/255, DR 4/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (SR21, 25% no crit, rage 38/43, channel 7/7) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 9:53:15 AM
Terser sees that Fang is making this exciting right out of the gate. He can't help but cheer at her first strike (whether or not it connected, which remains to be seen.)
He remains in the stands unless a third of their number doesn't head out with Jozhur and Bralin.
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map d20+25=33 ; 12d8+5=62 ; 2d8+5=21 ; d20+50=61 ; d4=2 ; Wednesday May 20th, 2020 5:13:35 PM
Fang's charge works, catching Hin completely offguard. His handsome features contort in anger as he tries to adjust to the attack. He adjusts his stance, lowering his center of gravity. He strikes downwards, crashing his open palm into Fangs chest. Hits AC 33 for 21 damage. The blow feels strange, and for a moment Fang's head swims.
Hin grins, then suddenly leaps past Fang, using his acrobatics to easily slip past her guard. His speed is dizzying, and he easily covers the arena floor in a single movement. He skids to a stop and laughs.
"So mad, little mouse! I had heard that beastfolk were nothing but animals. Is Rage your only trick? Come to think of it, is that how all of the Sea Dragons fight? Slobbering maniacs without a brain cell among them?" He bounces lightly on the balls of his feet. It seems like he's prepared to dodge.
Hin: 17 damage. 1 shock buildup. Fang: 1 fire buildup. FR eats it up. (I'll let you track your own damage.)
Fang: Roll perception please. Fang: Know Local DC 16 (Flat 10 bonus from the notes in your tournament journal is already applied.) ------------------------------------------
Aexana bids Gwen farewell and turns back to the matches. Jozhur bets on Fang, and considers the pros and cons of talking to Last Whisper now. One one hand, its a public place and no one could accuse you of having started a conflict. On the other, if a fight breaks out, people could get caught up if the sides aren't careful with their fighting.
Bralin is healed by Tahni, and volunteers to head to the Village. Let your DM know if you are heading off that direction. Tahni correctly notes that with so much power in these swings, hitting first is a huge advantage. Terser cheers for the impulsive ratfolk, but keeps an eye on his team. He might have to head out soon.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 228/228(215 rage) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, +1 this combat, 20 fire resist) DR 1 CMD: 25 d20=16 ; d20+11=15 ; Wednesday May 20th, 2020 7:50:14 PM
(I think according to the rules you can't make untrained knowledge checks. Regardless she didn't make it)
Fang snarls. He's to far to chase, she doen't have that much speed in her all the time. She clicks her heals to activate boots of haste that aren't there out of habit (good thing she removed them) and moves to snatch something throw-able off the ground (Can she move, pick up something as part of the movement, then throw? It'd be like drawing a weapon with a move action maybe?)
Ken E: The First Round, Arena Map Wednesday May 20th, 2020 8:22:30 PM
(Sure!)
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