DM JK Thursday December 27th, 2001 11:09:40 AM
Everyone congratulates each other after the melee and has a good time. The next day a new audience arrives at the arena. The landscape has changed considerably since the last contest. There is a rather large pond in the center of the field, and there are two large towers at either end of the field.
Mitchum starts to explain the event to the competitors. "First of all before the contest begins, the contestants need to prove their worth. We have before us a red table and a blue table. Upon the red table there are several feathers." Indeed, it is just as he says, there the two tables are about five feet apart. "All the prospective contestant needs to do is move one of the feathers from the red table to the blue table without making physical contact of any kind with the feather. We will do this portion of the contest today. Then you will be given a chance to go and memorize the proper spells for the remainder of the event which will begin tomorrow. So that you may choose the correct spells, I will now explain the remainder of the contest:
"STAGE 1: Contestants must enter this pool and find a box that is filled with golden rings. The box is somewhere on the bottom. The pool is approximately 200 feet deep. The bottom is quite dark, so it may take sometime in the depths to find the box." "STAGE 2: Exit the pool with the ring. Then carry the ring to the blue tower at the south end of the field. You must ascend the tower to the second floor where you will find a second box which will contain a second ring. This task would be simple enough save for the fact that there is no door to the tower. You must find some way to pass through the stone walls. Whether through the walls or beneath them, the choice is yours." "STAGE 3: After obtaining the second ring, you will ascend to the roof of the tower. Where you will find a third box and a third ring. This would be a simple task save for the fact that the 3rd and 4th floors of that tower will be a blazing inferno tomorrow." "STAGE 4: From the roof of the blue tower, contestants will proceed to the roof of the red tower at the north end of the field. There you will find the 4th box and the 4th ring. The distance between the towers is approximately 300 yards." "STAGE 5: The first four stages show mastery over the 4 elements. The fifth stage shows mastery over men. The fifth ring is in a box on the bottom floor of the red tower. There is only one ring in this box. The only challenge to taking this ring is the one the other contestants provide." "Whoever emerges from the red tower wearing the five rings is our champion. The rules to the contest are these: "1) the tasks must be completed in order, "2) you may not use magic to impede your fellows until you are wearing the 1st four rings, "3) you may use cast spells or items at your discretion."
"SO CONTESTANTS, move your feathers and retire to plan your strategy. The contest begins tomorrow morning."
Nonam Thursday December 27th, 2001 11:12:50 AM
Nonam casts mage hand and gently moves his feather to the other table, "Now this is a much better contest than swords. I'll see everyone tomorrow."
Gareth d20+4=15 d20+4=9 d20+4=20 d20+4=15 Thursday December 27th, 2001 1:02:57 PM
The warrior approaches the table, he blows a feather off into the air toward the other table (Dex DC 15), he falters a bit when he tries to get under the feather with a wisp of breath to keep it aloft (DC 9), but recovers quickly enough to keep the feather up in the air with grace (I figured a feather floated slowly enough that he'd get 2 shots at it. DC 20). He then lands the feather on the other table carefully (DC 15). He smiles at Nonam and the others. "Perhaps magic isn't so hard after all...". :).
Myrridan the Wild d20+12=29 d4+1=4 Thursday December 27th, 2001 1:19:19 PM
"Well, druids don't have the use of such spells like Mage Hand," Myrridan bellowed. "No magic is needed here anyway!"
Myrridan turns to a bird he spied to the side of the arena. He takes out a little morsel of food and starts to make short chirping noises (Animal Empathy skill, rolled a 29, good enough). The bird flies to Myrridan and takes the food. Myrridan whispers into its ear (Speak with Animals). The bird then flies to the red table and takes a feather and deposits it on the blue table. The bird then kicks Nonam's feather off the table and flies back to a smiling Myrridan for more food.
"I hope the no physical contact meant only for me," Myrridan says laughing.
"If I must use magic, then I will do so!" Myrridan's expression turn serious as he begins to chant and move this hands and arms in a strange fashion. (Summon Natures Ally 5, summoned 4 Xorns)
The crowd sees nothing different as Myrridan starts to speak. "Xorns," (they speak Common), "grab each leg of the red table and carry it over to the blue table and dump the feathers on to it," asked Myrridan. Four small creatures come directly out of the ground leaving no holes. Each with multiple arms and bodies looking to consist of earth, stones and quartz. They pick up the table with little effort and carry it to the blue table. They then tilt the red table over the blue allowing gravity to do its job. Then quickly returning the red table to its original position, they return to the ground leaving no trace.
Myrridan the Wild looks at the crowd and says, "You never said I couldn't touch the table. I hope that makes me worthy!"
Qualde Thursday December 27th, 2001 7:54:33 PM
Qualde sets a shallow silver bowl on the blue table and fills it with water. She gathers the feathers by hand and returns them to the red table, then trickles honey over several and scatters birdseed among them. When she casts Animal Messenger, a small grouse alights to take the seeds and one of the sticky feathers becomes stuck to its leg. She then directs the bird to the bowl of water on the other table, where the feather is washed free of its foot. (Stretching it, I know. *shrug*)
Bill Troublefinder d20+18=32 Thursday December 27th, 2001 8:15:50 PM
Bill watches Nonam, and nods his head. "Yeah, see ya tomorrow, Nonam." He applauds Gareth as he uses his breath to accomplish the move. And he laughs when Myrridan, after having the bird take a feather, next summons the xorns.
"That's wholesale feather moving for ya," he comments. Bill uses the psionic power far hand to retrieve Nonam's feather from the ground, placing it again upon the blue table. He then moves all the feathers, one at a time, back to the red table, save Nonam's, Gareth's, and two to Myrridan's. Finally, he selects the smallest feather from the red table, and moves it over to the blue table. "Thought I'd choose a feather proportionate to my stature." He waits around for a few more minutes to see who else wants to compete.
While he waits, he approaches Mitchum. "If there are no doors to the tower - are there any windows? Could one get to the 2nd floor by coming down from the roof and through the 4th and 3rd floors - even though they're on fire? Are there more than four floors, besides the roof, in the blue tower? Hey - what if someone collapses one of the towers as they try to get in or around it? Would that count as obstructing others? Are any of the boxes locked?
"In the red tower - is it the same size as the blue tower? Does it lack any doors, too? How about windows? Trapdoors? Stairs? Sliding poles? Are the red and blue towers identical for all practical purposes, except for the fire?
"Also - what is the circumference of the pool? And is the bottom the same circumference, or much smaller, or much bigger? Are there any creatures in the pool? I mean, ones that might noticeably attack people who go in the pool? Does the pond have any extensive offshoots underwater? Is the water dark because it's dirty, or murky, or just because light doesn't penetrate too well down to that depth? If it's murky, how far CAN one see underwater, say with a light source?
"Could Gareth throw a net over someone before he has the first four rings, because he wouldn't be using magic - if the net's not magic - and the rules just say you can't use magic to hinder someone, right?"
He awaits answers to his questions. He spends some time looking over the grounds, the set of the towers and pond, and makes sure he understands the rules and any clarifications. He closes his eyes for several minutes, going over things in his head, planning his path. [Skill, Autohypnosis - DC 32, for purposes of memorization.] Finally, he scurries off. "Gotta talk to someone in the Catacombs," he announces.
Bill T / Kim Thursday December 27th, 2001 8:18:49 PM [OOC: Qualde and I were writing a response to the previous posts at the same time. Thus the apparent duplication of effort.]
Cantos Thursday December 27th, 2001 9:04:04 PM
Cantos looks at the table from his lying position on the ground, mumbles a few words, and the feather floats off of the table and gently floats to the next. "Now that was easy enough."
Tericus Friday December 28th, 2001 9:33:55 AM
Muttering a few words, Tericus summons up a small fairy (summon monster 1) to carry the feather to the table. "See you all later," he says as he leaves the arena.
Jus Friday December 28th, 2001 3:59:16 PM
Jus quickly casts Mage Hand in passing as he heads out for rest and memorization, moving the feather required of him.
The Next Day.... Friday December 28th, 2001 9:44:46 PM
As the the arena fills up and the crowds filter in, you can feel the excitement as if you could touch it. The anticipation of major displays of magic seem to be a huge hit among the city's elite as they have come out in droves for the spectacle. Among the guests are some of the most prominent figures in all the realms. Snippets of conversation suggest that word of this tournament was widespread indeed but many lament they did not get to the city in time to see the warriors duke it out.
Mitchum smiles as he sees everyone come in. The stage is set, the coluseum is full, and the participants appear impressive. What a day this will be!
(OK, if you are in, make an entrance by Monday morning. The games will begin then. Don't be late or you don't get top play... :) DM DEH)
Amazing things Friday December 28th, 2001 10:13:42 PM
As the excitement builds and the crowd noise increases and incredible thing happens. A few with the ability to see or hear well gasp at the speck that is growing in the east. Many shrug, but it continues to grow in size as it approaches. When it crosses the edge of the city the creature comes in clear sight to all. It's a huge dragon. Perhaps as large as any that are known, perhaps larger. Its scales shimmer as they catch the sun. The beast is not like any dragon ever encounterd. Sometime looking gold or metallic, other times reflecting every color of the rainbow. One thing is for sure though. He's coming to the arena! The gargantuan beast lands right smack in the middle of the arena, landing more lightly than should be possible for such a creature as this. It must stand 75' tall or taller. And it is the most beautiful thing any of you have ever seen.
But then something strange happens. The beast begins to shrink and transoform. In a matter of moments, before you stands a man instead of a huge wyrm. Clearly an ancient man, his physique and posture suggest otherwise in a juxtaposition clearly suggesting that his power is great. Those who have been around a long time recognize this one as Arion II. The famous - or infamous - mage who calls this city his home. He is robed in white, carrying a staff. He has upon his head some sort of mitre with a huge red gem in it. All his ornamentation is impressive, but it is clear that it all serves some purpose of function. His irises are white with power and do not fade - as if there is so much raw power in the man that it is barely harnessed. He smiles at the participants and addresses them but a moment. "Not to worry, I'm not entering the contest. It's not every day that some of the elite casters of the realm come together in my home city for an exhibition. I look forward to seeing your handiwork!". He begins to float up into the stands where there is an empty chair - next to his wife, the powerful and ancient witch Schwangu. He pauses a moment and repairs the giant claw prints he left on the field but then lands nicely and prepares for the show.
The old woman grumbles at the display. "Why do you always have to show OFF like that! We've gone over this a thousand times and more! You are going to scare the folk and they'll NEVER get used to you being here!...". The tyrade is quite loud, and with the silence in the arena everyone hears it. The old man slinks lower and lower into his chair and looks perfectly miserable. All attempts by him to explain are intercepted and a new volley launched by the animated woman. The crowd begins to chuckle and in a matter of moments it roars with laughter. So much for being married - even if you are one of the most powerful beings in all the realms...
Bill Troublefinder Saturday December 29th, 2001 3:49:14 AM
The halfling, having asked the questions of Mitchum the day before, awaits any answers that Mitchum may wish to offer before the contest begins. If no clarifications are forthcoming, he shrugs and figures, 'I guess everything is fair, then.' [OOC: Please note especially rule #2 - the way it is worded, any non-magical obstacles a contestant desires to use against another is fair game, even BEFORE the contestant has acquired the four rings. Is this how Mitchum wants things to stand?]
Bill enjoys watching the crowds, and takes the time to greet each of his fellow contestants. From time to time, he concentrates on different sections of the course.
When the great dragon appears, he watches in wonder, and as well at the transformation. When Arion II sits next his wife, Schwangu, and she begins to share her evaluations, he says to Jus, "Sounds like my great Aunt Agnes talking to my great Uncle Barocan on their 60th anniversary."
Myrridan the Wild Saturday December 29th, 2001 2:59:50 PM
After the crowd calms down, some begin to notice that the cool morning breeze all of a sudden becomes still. An eerie silence envelops the arena.
A small child in the stands breaks the silence as she points to the sky. Everyone looks skyward as they notice the clouds begin to spin in a circular formation. The clouds churn and swirl as the wind suddenly builds up speed. The eye of the wind storm appears to be centered right above the arena.
As people hold on to their hats and lose articles of clothing, a column of air lowers to the arena floor. Picking up dust, leaves and mist from the clouds, the column resembles a minor tornado. Suddenly the winds subsides, and as the air clears of dust and mist a man can be made out where the wind column once was.
Myrridan the Wild greets the crowd with his arms spread out wide. Most people look at one another not sure if they should cheer. Then a roar of shouts and claps rise up from a small group in the stands. A halfling, taur, dwarf and some humans; a group known as the Defenders of the North. Myrridan waves at them as he takes his place next to Bill Troublefinder. The crowd lightly claps with the Defenders, not to be left out.
Myrridan turns to Bill, "You know, I tried your blueberry pie last night. It was rather good!"
"I hope to meet the dragon afterward," Myrridan continues, "He flew in right by me, amazing!!" "Have you ever seen such a spectacle?!" he concluded.
(OCC: Spells: Control Winds and cast Windwalk from scroll)
Jus Saturday December 29th, 2001 11:15:03 PM
Jus walks in from the crowd, where he was talking with some kids and entertaining them with minor cantrips. He gives the kids little ladybug pins to wear -- not as fancy as the original he gave the redhead little girl so long ago, but very nice nonetheless.
Walking to the center, he nods to Bill in greeting. "Uncle and Aunt? I'm surprised you can remember all their names? Don't you have a few hundred?"
Bill Troublefinder Monday December 31st, 2001 12:46:18 AM
To Myrridan Bill says, "See, blueberry is SO-O-O tasty! Glad you tried it!"
When asked about having seen such a spectacle, Bill's eyes go dark for just a moment as he recalls the fly-over and attacks of the dragons on his own village. But then he takes a breath, and says, "Quite a day, it looks to be!"
Bill looks at Jus, and asks, "Just how many brothers and sisters do you suppose my parents have anyway? A few hundred?" He crosses his eyes. "Well, if you include great uncles and great-great aunts and such ... hmmm. I've gotta update my family tree sometime." He sees the pins Jus hands out. "What's with the ladybug?" he asks.
Let The Games Begin!!! Monday December 31st, 2001 10:31:47 AM
The crowds anticipation mounts, the minstrels play rousing tunes, the air is filled with electricity - figuratively speaking...
At the appointed time, Mitchum steps up to the grandstand and begins announcements over a magically enhanced voice so that all in the arena hear.
"Ladies and gentleman, for youe entertainment I give you some of the finest mages in the Wold!". The crowd cheers. "Now prepare for a fine display of power and elegant, creative casting!". As the crowd continues to cheer the announcer turns to the competitors.
"OK mages, here are the final instructions: On the question of non-magic, you may not use it to impede progress or do damage until after the fourth ring is garnered. As stated, the first 4 challenges are to demonstrate mastery of the elements - not how good you are at tricking your fellow mages. After that - as with the warrior's battle, it is a melee. Do what you will! One other detail. The first 4 boxes contain the number of rings equal to the number of contestants. You may only take ONE ring from them. Take more and you are disqualified. Here is the starting line, and is also the finish line. On your other questions, Mr. Troublefinder (and Mitchum grins largely) - you'll just have to find out... Now on to business!".
The top 2 stories of the blue tower - as if on cue - burst into flame. So hot, infact that the crowd closest to it recoil a bit.
All the mages are lined up in front of the pond - the start/finish line. "On your mark, get set, go!".
================================================ OOC: Details - You see the blue tower has no apparent external entrances - at all. You see the pond is maybe 75' across, you see the red tower has a door on the first floor, no other openings are apparent.
One Other Note - DM DEH Monday December 31st, 2001 10:35:07 AM
Roll a d10 with your post. No modifiers. Also, post in parenthesis any magical effects or other notes next to your name in your post - good luck!
Myrridan the Wild (8) d10=8 Monday December 31st, 2001 10:57:21 AM
Myrridan leaps into the water. As he concentrates for a moment, he begins to wildshape into a dolphin.
(This takes a full round action. If allowed no other actions this round, he must wait for next round to move. If extra rounds are allowed each day he will take a deep breath and move his full speed to the target which is 180 feet *i think*. Myrridan should have no trouble seeing, dolphins have 120' blindsight.)
(Myrridan still has Control Winds and Windwalk active but not in use.)
Why are control winds and windwalk active? -jk
Bill Troublefinder (8) (Fly ...) d10=8 Monday December 31st, 2001 1:05:54 PM
As the crowd gets warmed up, Bill eats a slice of rhubarb pie, and washes it down from a metal cup. Across his chest, where normally he would place several darts, are potion vials and flasks in the place of some of the darts. As the announcer warmed up the audience, he unstoppered two potion vials. At the command to go, he downs a potion of flying, and flies out over the center of the pond, where he downs next a potion of water breathing. His backpack, slung over one shoulder, has a loop of rope protruding from the top.
On the halfling's forehead is a green gem. An ioun stone circles his head. His right ring finger wears a silvery metallic ring, and on his left is a crystalline ring. A tubular case is on his left hip, a short sword on his right, and a few daggers, pouches, and darts placed here and there. A folded net is tucked neatly into the back of his belt. Unusual for a halfling, he wears boots.
Tied onto the sides of his backpack are several inflated waterskins, filled, apparently, with air.
Cantos Monday December 31st, 2001 7:22:43 PM
Cantos looks at the others and steps back, "Unfortunately I am out of my element here, so good luck guys." With that the bard sits down and prepares to watch the spectacle unfold.
Gareth Tuesday January 1st, 2002 12:28:33 AM
The warrior looks carefully at the water for a few moments. Then he sits down and joins Cantos. "I figured out a way I could get past most the other obstacles - but not 200' of water...".
Nonam (Haste) d10=5 Tuesday January 1st, 2002 12:54:30 AM
Using his Quicken Spell feat he mage instantly casts haste (free action). He then moves at amazing speed to the edge of the water and casts polymorph self - and turns into the merman.
Jus (Water Breathing) d10=5 Tuesday January 1st, 2002 3:15:41 AM
Jus casts Water Breathing and moves to the edge of the pool. Seeing Nonam cast two spells in the same time it takes Jus to cast his first, Jus comments, "Showoff."
Bill Troublefinder (8) (Fly ...) d20+9=19 Tuesday January 1st, 2002 11:25:46 AM
Bill yells out, "Gareth, water breathing!" and tosses a potion bottle to him. To Cantos he says, "Sorry, just had one extra." Then he continues his preparations, reaching into the backpack.
Cantos Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 9:21:37 AM
Cantos looks at Gareth and smiles. "Looks like you're up."
DM JK Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 10:43:59 AM
Myriddan and Nonam change their form and plunge into the water. The others are making preparations.
[Properly done we need another week for this contest, but we need to finish by Friday to get on with the YOA. So to speed things up, give your whole strategy for the water, earth, fire, and air ring today and roll a d10 for each stage. Based on selection of spells plus a little luck from the d10, I'll give a ranking of how long it takes you to finish each leg of the race. So as an example: Nonam is probably in the lead now. He's moving fast and ably through the water, and he rolled low. Myriddan and Jus are probably just behind. Myriddan is moving fast, but he rolled high. Jus rolled low, but so far isn't moving quickly. Get the idea? Then we'll have thurs and friday posts for the combat on the last ring. Not ideal I know, but our three week break from YOA is nearly over. As for the way things work. Each tower has a door on the top floor. The first tower has no other openings. The seond tower has a door on the first floor. You can't see inside to know for certain how many floors, so you only have the description. Each tower looks to be about 100ft tall. They are the same height.]
Nonam d10=6 d10=4 d10=10 Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 10:52:44 AM
As a hasted merman Nonam searches for the ring. When he finds it, he puts it on swims back to the surface. Polymorphs back into his own form and runs for the tower, though he doesn't dismiss the polymorph spell. He uses a passwall spell to get in through the tower to find the earth ring. Then he polymorphs into a flamebrother salamander and slithers to the top of the tower. Taking the fire ring, he polymorphs into an eagle and flies to the second tower for the air ring.
[5 for water, 6 earth, 4 fire, 10 air]
Myrridan the Wild d10=3 d10=8 d10=1 d20+4=23 Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 12:15:32 PM
8. Myrridan takes a ring in his dolphin mouth (4x max speed 320 feet * reg. speed 80* in a straight line), he had no problem finding it in the murky darkness (blindsight). Myrridan rockets up out of the water and after a few loops high in the air he changes to human form (a standard action) and lands on both feet (tumble check 23, nailed it).
3. With his "Boots of Striding and Springing", (doubles speed and jump) Myrridan leaves the water at lightning speed. The crowds cheer at his morphing acrobatics. While running to the first tower, Myrridan takes the ring from his mouth and puts it on his finger.
At the tower he cast "Stone Shape" to create a tiny 4inch x 4inch hole in the wall. Myrridan changes to a rat (full round action) and runs through without any problem. Changing back to human form, he strides a double speed to the second floor and takes another ring.
8. Myrridan then casts Protection from Elements (Fire, 108 points of fire damage protection for 90 minutes). Continuing at double speed, Myrridan makes it to the top and gets the 3rd ring.
1. While atop the first tower, Myrridan wildshapes into a eagle (full round action) and races to the other tower (in a straight line at 4x an eagles move of 80' which is 320 feet). There at the other tower, Myrridan takes the fourth ring.
Upon taking the ring, Myrridan the Wild looks back at the other contestants with a feral look in his eyes and a slight smirk. Since he had already cast the spell before the match and it was still active, he goes through the hand motions of casting for be fair. With a mere thought the winds begin to blow very hard in a circular formation 360 feet in all directions around the last tower with a calm eye centered on Myrridan. (Control Winds, depending of the current wind level, the winds goes up 3 power levels. The winds will be at least 50 mph, look at page 87 in DMG. Small creatures would be knocked from the air and Medium will have to Fort. save DC 15 each round. Wind could be more severe depending on its original level. I wont allow the wind to blow over 60 mph, which would knock med. size creatures from the air.)
(OOC: Also Nonam may need to re-read the spell Alterself. "The spell does not confer special abilities, attack forms, defenses *fire resistance*, ablility scores, or mannerisms of the chosen form." It is only 2nd level! He can only fly at a move rate of 30 feet with poor maneuverability. Sorry to be a rulehog!)
He polymorphed self. -jk
Gareth Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 3:15:42 PM
The warrior catches the toss from Bill and smiles. "Many thanks, my friend. But I think I'll leave the casting to Nonam as he leaves the fighting to me. I have no chance in this contest - not even a token chance. Best of luck in your efforts - and watch out for the large shark!" He continues to sit with Cantos, watching the churning pool - hoping Bill takes the bait.
Bill Troublefinder d20+13=26 d10=2 d2=2 d2=1 d2=2 d6=2 d6=2 d100=61 d2=1 d2=2 d2=2 d6=6 d100=3 d6=1 d2=2 d2=2 d2=1 d6=6 d6=3 d2=2 d2=2 d2=2 d2=2 d2=2 d2=2 d2=1 d10=3 d10=2 d10=4 Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 9:55:35 PM
Having quaffed his potion of water breathing, the busy halfling takes his backpack off - and it remains there in the air, about six feet above the surface of the water. He strikes a sunrod that is tied on to something in the backpack onto a hard surface within the pack. Then he grunts as he lifts a heavy iron anvil from within. To the anvil a strong silk rope is tied, and two sealed waterskins which have a small amount of air are tied a few feet above one of the loops affixed to the anvil. The now glowing sunrod is next to the waterskins. Airskins?
As Bill heaves the anvil out, he places his wrist through a loop. Then, the anvil leading the way, he plunges headfirst into the spash made by the 75-pound iron weight. The spectators can see that a rope uncoils from the bag as the anvil drags Bill down through the water.
Why didn't the anvil weigh him down when it was in his bag? -jk Unseen by the spectators is a glow in Bill's eyes, as he activates mylight and then [/i]elfsight during the descent. On reaching the bottom, he looks around for the box containing the rings, his eyes projecting twin 20' cones of light [Spot 26 - due in part to the potion of vision he used to wash down the rhubarb pie]. Along with looking for the box, he notes peripherally if others in the vicinity evidence success in locating a ring.
Once he locates the ring, he places it on his right index finger.
Back to the anvil, Bill takes the now fully-inflated airskins, and they assist his ascent to the surface. Bill leaves the backpack floating in the air as he shoots out of the water, flying toward the first tower, and he holds up his right index finger so the crowd can see he bears a ring there.
For the second stage of the contest (rolled a 2 on d10), Bill flies (90) to the base of the first tower, then, activating the ability to blink from the ring he wears on the left hand, steps through the blue tower's wall, relying on a temporary ethereal state to move through the material.
[Long, boring results calculations: There is a 50% chance he will materialize during each five feet of thickness of the material through which he passes. Will roll d2: 1=materializes; 2=does not materialize. If thicker than 5 feet, must roll again. Okay, 1st roll d2=2, so he does not materialize if the wall is <= 5 feet thick. If it is > 5' but <= 10', he will materialize, causing 4 hp damage (d6 per 5' section), and kicking him toward the nearest air-filled opening. If the wall is 10' thick or less, he will end up inside the tower. For every foot over 10' thickness the base of the tower possesses, Bill's chance of arriving inside the tower decreases by 10%: 100% at 10'; 90% at 11'; 80% at 12'; 70% at 13'; 60% at 14'; and 50% at 15'. Will roll percentile. Want to roll low. Okay a 61% roll. That means if the wall is 13'10" or less in thickness, Bill made it to the inside. Am going to assume wall is NOT thicker than this. If it is, he will simply try again, and I'll let Mr. DM JK go through this tedious process :-) ]
Bill flies up to the 2nd level, grabs ring #2, which he adds to his right middle finger. He swallows a potion of protection from elements (fire), then blinks back out through the 2nd story wall (which may be slightly thinner than the 1st store wall, fails in his first attempt (unless the wall is 5' or less, in which case he succeeds on the first try: 3% - actually, he can make it through 9'6" of wall) and suffers 6 hp damage (or 7 hp if wall is < 9'6" but more than 5'), but for sure succeeds on his second attempt to blink through.
Bill flies outside the tower to the door at the top of the burning tower. He blinks through the door (total success - I assume no door is going to be more than 5' thick), retrieves the third ring, placing it on his thumb, blinks back out of the door, and flies (move 67.5 per round) to the roof of the second tower, the red one, waving his be-ringed fingers to the crowd.
On the roof of the red tower, he retrieves ring #4, placing it on his pinky, then flies to the base of the tower, and blinks through the wall. If the wall is <= 5 feet, then no problem. If > 5 feet but <= 10 feet, then he takes 9 hp damage, and ends up inside the tower, where he takes ring #5. If someone has not beat him to it. If he's got it, he blinks out through the wall, holding the ring high in his right hand, on his index finger just above his ring of self-sufficiency.
[I had fun rolling to see how successful his exit from the tower would be. If the wall is 30' thick or less, he has no problems passing through it! Amazing.]
Bill bows, and flies up toward Mitchum, looking somewhat like a firefly, blinking in and out.
Oh, almost forgot to roll the d10 for Stages 3, 4 and 5: 3; 2; 4.
Just doing rings 1-4. Now we're starting the last ring.
Jus d10=7 d10=10 d10=4 d20+4=18 Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 11:55:18 PM
Jus casts Locate Object, trusting that it will help him find the box of rings in the depths of the pool faster than the others can grope for the box in the 200' darkness. This done, he dives in and swims down into the depths as fast as he can, easily heading straight to the box because of the Locate Object spell. Pulling out a ring, he slips it on and swims back to the surface.
Realizing that he needs to make up some time, Jus runs (Base Speed x 4 = 120') towards the first tower (300yards away, yes?). While running, Jus estimates the height of the tower by sight, ensuring that the previously stated 100' is correct (d20+INT=18; should be good enough since spellcasters always judge distances when casting spells). On the way, Jus also checks if the top of the tower is burning, or just the floors below the roof. [OOC: Unclear in descriptions, and it slightly affects what he does later]
When Jus is within 700 feet from the center of the blue tower, he casts Dimension Door, porting himself to a quarter of the way inside the first tower, a couple of feet off of ground level. He runs upstairs, opens the box, and grabs one of the second rings. With a conservation of movement, Jus goes right into the casting of Fly. Then, only if the roof of the tower was on fire, he casts Fire Shield to help protect him from the flames. Finally, he casts Dimension Door, ports himself to 10' above the tower (in case his estimate and the stated 100' was wrong). Using his still-active Fly spell, Jus swoops down to the third box, opens it, and retrieve ring number 3. [OOC: If flames are on roof and are magical, Jus has SR of 21 in addition to 1/2 damage reduction of Fire Shield]
This done, Jus immediately starts Flying towards the red tower at full speed (90'). As soon as he is within 720 feet of the center of the red tower, Jus casts Dimension Door yet again, disappearing and popping back right beside the last ring-box. Jus opens the box and retrieves one of the last rings.
Jus considers everyone's placement and begins casting...
[5 for water, 7 earth, 10 fire, 4 air]
Cantos Thursday January 3rd, 2002 6:35:34 AM
Cantos applauds everyones efforts as he watches the contest continue. He then leans over to Gareth " I like that Bill he has one heck of a mind."
Tericus Thursday January 3rd, 2002 8:53:45 AM
Running to the competition, Tericus yells out, "I overslept, I can't belive I missed my chance to win this competition!!"
The Race - DMJK Thursday January 3rd, 2002 9:32:00 AM
Everyone's techniques work. Bill gets off to a slow start, but with all the flying and a little luck, he makes it to the 4th ring first.
Nonam reaches the 4th ring second, and Myriddan is a very close third. Jus gets caught in Myriddan's wind, but then he uses dimension door, and hits the roof without much trouble.
Bill is already over the side flying down to the base of the tower. He has a little difficulty due to Myriddan's wind so isn't going as fast as he otherwise might. Our other three contestants are on the roof together.
[here's a brief explanation of how things worked. Bill had good rolls on initiative and did a good bit of flying without stopping too long to cast. He ended up with a score of 18 in my bizarre counting system. Myriddan and Nonam had fairly similar plans all things considered. Myriddan's initiative was better and he was moving faster, but he cast more spells and did an extra shape change (rat to human). It pretty much came down to I figured that passwall was faster than stone shape, and I was thinking that it would be hard for a dolphin to open a box. Nonam 26, Myriddan 27. I could have botched that one. It was a tough call. Jus had the worst initiative and cast several spells, though his spell choices caught him up fairly well. 29. It's not perfect, and it may very well have ended up differently in a live game with a round by round initiative. Bill's actions with the water could have even placed him last.
-blink seems to be a much better 3e spell than it was in 2e.
-give a d10 for initiative and lay your initial plans in motion. pretty much tell what you're going to do to the others. Then make your move for the ring, and I'll tell you who wins in rather arbitrary fashion tomorrow. Right now, Bill's the leader.
Nonam d10=1 Thursday January 3rd, 2002 9:55:58 AM
Nonam polymorphs back into his normal form and drops to the roof to put on the 4th ring. While Myriddan monkeys with the wind, Nonam sees Bill flying down the side and decides not to mindfog and feeblemind everyone like he originally planned. Instead he immediately uses dimension door to zip down to the bottom floor of the tower. He hopes to grab the ring and then simply run right out the door before anyone else can get down to stop him.
[1 for initiative :)]
Myrridan the Wild d10=3 Thursday January 3rd, 2002 10:54:52 AM
Myrridan takes a free action to concentrate to bring the full fury of the winds down on the tower as he enters the tower and full running speed with his boots of striding and springing. Winds engulf the tower, bringing its full force on the door and the area around the tower.
Myrridan is triple timing it to the ground floor at a speed of a 180 feet . (since it's not a straight line)
(you havent told me what was the original force of the wind so Im assuming the wind was calm. So the wind blows at 50 mph. Should knock a small creature from the sky like Bill or blow him further away before he can blink. The winds will also hinder opening the door if it opens out. If it opens into the tower, the force of the wind blowing into the tower should hinder anyone leaving the tower. Ultimately it's all up to you, JK!)
("Monkeys with the Wind!" You belittle my windstorms attempt to knock flyers from the sky?! I was assuming I was first! No big whoop! ;)
Gareth Thursday January 3rd, 2002 10:58:59 AM
The warrior cheers loudly for his companions and waits to see how the others try to stop the wild mage from winning.
Jus d20=9 d10=9 Thursday January 3rd, 2002 2:15:19 PM
Jus opens the box and retrieves one of the last rings.
Jus considers everyone's placement and begins casting...
[ooc: ouch! I was hoping the 720' hops with Dimension door would catch me up a few rounds. I demand a recount! ;) ] ========================
A bit chagrined that it's taken him so long to get here, Jus tries to put it out of his mind and continue the quest.
Seeing Nonam start to cast Dimension Door (spellcraft check made), Jus realizes that he's not going to get down in time. Hoping to slow everyone a little, Jus casts Hold Portal on the first floor door.
Jus will then Dimension Door downstairs. If whoever has the ring tries starts to cast magic that will get them out (like Dimension Door), Jus will counterspell using Dispel Magic. Otherwise, Jus will attempt to cast Bestow Curse on whoever wears the fifth ring (with the effect of 50% chance of inaction per round).
Myrridan Thursday January 3rd, 2002 3:03:02 PM
(If this wasnt for sport, I would protest too. I can run faster than anyone can fly (not to mention faster swim speed, too). I also fly 2 to 3 times faster than anyone else too. For example, if you compare my eagle form with Nonam's quasi-eagle like form; it would be a no brainer. My top speed in flight is 320 ft. Nonams is only a mere 120'! ( Bill's Fly spell only tops at 180') I could fly from tower A to tower B and back to A, then back to B again and still beat Nonam! :)) My strategy was based on my speed and getting to the second tower first, but I dont care, Im having fun. :))
With a polymorph, Nonam is pretty much a real eagle. That's a top speed of only 80 though- which I never really bothered to look up until just now. (Nonam usually just shadow walks when he wants to go somewhere fast.) The spell fly only gives 90' and an air elemental only moves at 100, so I don't know why your eagle goes faster at 320... some druid magic no doubt. I'd be interested to see, just as a method of tweaking. That's sort of what this is for. No better competition than other players. -jk
Bill Troublefinder (Fly, fire immunity, water breathing, vision, blinking) AC 24, HP ? (how thick are walls he's gone through?) d10=2 d2=2 d2=1 d100=38 d6=6 d6=1 d2=1 d2=2 d100=45 d6=2 d6=1 d100=61 d100=26 d2=2 d20+6=23 d4=1 d100=3 d100=100 Thursday January 3rd, 2002 3:55:38 PM
[Initiative 2.] Due to the strength of the wind, Bill blinks through the tower three quarters of the way down, then continues his descent with due haste, flying downwards.
If the wall is 5' or less in thickness, he makes it through just fine. If it is as much as 10', he makes it through, but suffers 7 hp damage. If in his attempt he was trying to come in in the middle of a floor, he'll be kicked back outside, and will try again a few feet lower, succeeding with 2 hp damage if wall is 5' or less, failing with 3 hp damage if wall is 10' or less. If another attempt is needed, succeeds if wall is 8'10" or less thick (61%). For the sake of argument, let's say there's a 25% chance he arrives in the middle of a floor, so, if 75% or less is rolled, he's just fine. Okay, rolled 26%, so he made it comfortably on the first attempt, so just forget those rolls after the first two d6 damage dice.
If he is the first one there, Bill grabs the ring and blinks out the door (d2=2), placing the final ring adjacent to the Ring of Self-Sufficiency on his hand, and waving joyfully to the crowds.
(I don't think that hold portal would interfere with the blink, unless it is deemed effective in the ethereal plane - if so, he'll blink through the wall).
If Nonam or someone else is there first with the ring, Bill says, "Way to go, Nonam!" (Insert appropriate substitute name if someone else gets there first.) (Skip to last paragraph)
If someone is there, but does not yet have the ring, he stomps (Reflex save vs. DC 23 or fall to the ground, taking 1 hp of subdual damage), then grabs the ring, and blinks out (using earlier roll for blinking out). SHOOT! Having rolled less than 21 on a d100 (3), Bill managed to stomp on the ethereal plane, so, no one falls down (due to blink effect).
He watches to see what happens next, prepared to defend himself if necessary, net in hand. Unless someone else starts it, he will not interfere. If Nonam or another has trouble with the door, and no one attacks him, he will invoke the knock power to open the door for him. (And, since he rolled d100=100, he was in the material plane, not ethereal, when he knocked the door open.)
Bill T (additional note) d2=2 Friday January 4th, 2002 12:59:49 AM
If someone tries to grapple with Bill, he will blink through them and on past. See, d2=2!
Tericus Friday January 4th, 2002 8:49:56 AM
"I hope that little guy wins." Tericus says about Bill
DM JK Friday January 4th, 2002 11:24:18 AM
Nonam gets to the ring first, but Jus traps him inside. Myriddan forces Bill to Blink again, and he gets into the tower.
Everyone gets downstairs and sees Nonam holding the ring at the door. It looks like a showdown, but then Bill Knocks the door...
Perhaps Nonam could dash out, perhaps the tower will be destroyed with the magical duel about to break out...
Nonam Friday January 4th, 2002 11:27:45 AM
Nonam stops hand on the door and turns, "Well, those burly fighter types saw reason in the end and shared the victory. What say we all do the same and go out together. Then we can go have lunch and talk over techniques. I for one want to hear a little about Druid magic and Bill's blink spell. It seems much less random, than I would have surmised."
Nonam holds the ring up in the air and waits. It's probably a ripe time for someone to snatch it.
Myrridan the Wild d10=1 Friday January 4th, 2002 12:25:45 PM
Myrridan the Wild smiles, "Yes, It was my idea to leave the battle field. Valdor and I were going to kill each other if we hadnt!" Myrridan continues, "As far as telling you about druid magic, I would prefer to show you!"
With a wicked grin Myrridan casts "Wall of Thorns." Completely filling most of the tower with a tangled thicket of sharp pointy thorns. Engulfing everyone. Myrridan, though, seems to move through the extremely thick bramble as if it werent there. Myrridan walks up to Nonam, now unable to move, "Im sorry, it is a noble sentiment, but the crowds demand a victor...remember how they disapproved during the melee match."
Myrridan prys the ring from Nonam, who finds it very painful to move. "I'll be back for you all shortly," Myrridan runs (180 ft) back to the top of the tower. He calms the winds and emerges as the victor. He changes back into a eagle and flies to greet Mitchum and the roaring crowds. _______________
(OOC: No savethrow, no spell resistance. The Wall of Thorns spell creates a barrier of very tough, pliable, tangled brush bearing needle-sharp thorns as long as a person's finger. Any creature forced into or attempting to move through the Wall of Thorns takes 25 points of damage per round of movement, minus 1 point for each point of the creature's AC. DEX bonuses to AC and dodge bonuses do not count for this calculation. (Creatures with an Armor Class of 25 or higher take no damage from contact with the wall.)
You can make the wall as thin as 5 feet thick, which allows you to shape the wall as a number of 10-by-10-by-5-foot blocks equal to caster level x2. This has no effect on the damage inflicted by the thorns, but any creature attempting to break through takes that much less time to force its way through the barrier.
Creatures can force their way slowly through the wall. To make any progress, a creature must succeed at a STR check (DC 20). A successful creature moves a number of feet equal to its STR check result minus 19, so a creature who rolled 24 on its STR check could move 5 feet in a round. Of course, moving or attempting to move through the thorns incurs damage as described above. A creature trapped in the thorns can choose to remain motionless in order to avoid taking any more damage.
Any creature within the area of the spell when it is cast takes damage as if it had moved into the wall and is caught inside. In order to escape, it must attempt to push its way free, or it can wait until the spell ends. Creatures with the ability to pass through overgrown areas unhindered can pass through a Wall of Thorns at their normal speed without taking damage.
A Wall of Thorns can be carefully breached by slow work with edged weapons. Chopping away at the wall creates a safe passage 1 foot deep for every 10 minutes of work. Normal fire cannot harm the barrier, but magical fire burns away the barrier in 10 minutes.
Myrridan Friday January 4th, 2002 12:50:49 PM
(Forgot to mention, I can move thru the wall because of "Woodland Stride," a druid ability!)
Jus d20+18=27 d10=9 d20+8=25 Friday January 4th, 2002 2:13:43 PM
Jus holds his spells when Nonam talks, waiting to see everyone else's reaction. When Myrridan begins casting, Jus identifies the spell using his SpellCraft skill (27). Realizing this will not be a good thing, Jus counterspells with Dispel Magic [since his action was held while Nonam talked, Jus shouldn't need initiative; but I rolled it anyway (9 - yuck)]. [b]Counterspell check of 25 works unless Myrridan's level is 14 or higher.[b]
Myrridan Friday January 4th, 2002 2:34:02 PM
(Just a note: Counterspelling requires you to Ready an Action. Which takes place on your initiative! Unless you were still holding from the last turn. Which I think you cast Dimension Door instead. Nice try! Speaking requires no initiative.)
DMJK Friday January 4th, 2002 2:37:51 PM
Since Jus said he was holding a dispel magic for a counter already, he gets the jump on Myriddan and keeps the wall from forming.
Since Jus and Myr each cast in this round, they're pretty much done. Bill still has a shot, and Nonam hasn't done anything but talk in this round yet. Can Bill stop him before he just walks outside? An initiative roll could decide it all...
JK Friday January 4th, 2002 2:54:50 PM
Hmm, Stephen put up his post while I was writing mine. He's probably right. It's a question of how many rounds it took Myriddan to run down the stairs, which is related to how the stairs run. But we sort of did it all as one turn, so... Jus lost the inititive. The wall of thorns is there. See me waffle back and forth.
So Jus can do something else or just get trapped in the thorns.
Myrridan Friday January 4th, 2002 3:00:45 PM
(It is your ultimate decision, but I beat Jus's initiative by 8 points. I rolled a 1. We all just arrived in the room. No one had Readied a action from the previous turn. They couldnt have if any other action had taken place like full movement and casting. I will honor any decision you make. :)
Myyridan Friday January 4th, 2002 3:31:47 PM
*sorry, posted same time you made your last post, too*
DMJK Friday January 4th, 2002 3:38:09 PM
Myriddan's wild shaped 3 times already today. So he can't change into an eagle at the top of the tower when he gets there, can he?
Jus/John sent an email that he wanted to do an area dispel since the wall of thorns popped up. So this action was successful as Jus can effect up to a 9th level druid on a 5th level spell with his roll. Myriddan is 9th, so in segment 9 the thorns are gone. Also, I think that taking the ring out of Nonam's hand is at the very least a partial action, so you certainly can't cast, nab the ring, and run up the stairs before anyone else can do something.
Bill's blink spell is probably used up by now. It's been several rounds since casting it. I never gave much thought to the thickness of the walls. Let's say 2ft for outer walls and 1ft for sections of floor. Nonam's haste is probably gone too - though it would last a little longer than the blink.
OK, I'm posting for Nonam and I'm not checking on this any more for a while.
Nonam d10=2 d100=15 Friday January 4th, 2002 3:46:27 PM
Seeing Myriddan isn't going to take him up on his offer, Nonam clutches his fist around the ring and verbally activates his Ring of Mass Teleportation and pops himself outside to 10 feet above the platform where Mitchum had been standing. He arrives on target and hopes he doesn't land on Mitchum when he falls to the ground...
Myrridan Friday January 4th, 2002 3:49:17 PM
(Myrridan can wildshape 4 times per day(feat: Improved Wildshape *woldian original*) with an extra rat shape(a gift from Mitirri))
if you say so -jk
Bill Troublefinder (Fly, fire immunity, water breathing, vision, blinking) AC 24, HP ? (how thick are walls he's gone through?) d10=4 d20+6=24 d4=2 d100=44 d2=2 d2=2 d2=1 d100=94 d6=2 d20+11=27 d100=48 d20+5=7 d20+6=16 d4=1 Friday January 4th, 2002 3:56:45 PM
[Initiative 4 with Myrridan's speech.] When Myrridan says, "I would prefer to show you!" Bill stomps so as to catch the druid, and avoid Nonam, if possible. If he can avoid catching more than one other, he will (aiming the main force to the left or right, affecting Myrridan and anyone within the cone - JK, your call as to where others may be standing in relation to Myrridan). A shockwave begins, 5' wide immediately before the halfling, spreading out in a horizontal cone along the floor to 20' wide at 20' distance from the halfling. Reflex save vs. DC 24 or fall down, taking 2 hp subdual damage. This time he is in the material plane (44, needed 21+), so the power is effective.
Should Myrridan effectively cast the wall of thorns, Bill blinks up and out of the thorns (no problem to 14'5" height; 2+1 hp if thorns extend to 15' or higher above the floor).
He stands at the top of the steps, or just beyond them if the thorns reach that height, and cocks his arm with a tanglefoot bag, ready to throw. When Myrridan breaches the thorns, Bill throws the bag at the druid, hitting AC 27 in a ranged touch attack. Because Bill is blinking, Myrridan may not use his dex in figuring his AC. Bill is on the material plane (48) when he throws the bag. Myrridan must make a Reflex save, DC 15, or be stuck to the floor by the alchemical goo. Should he be stuck, he may attempt to break free with a successful Strength check (DC 27) or by dealing 15 points of damage to the goo with a slashing weapon. Should he make his Reflex save, he may move at half speed.
If for some reason Myrridan is able to get past him, Bill drops his blinking for the moment, kicks in the burst power each round (instantaneous manifestation). That, along with his boots of striding & springing, kicks his running speed up to 240 [((20'halfling+10'burst)*2boots)*4run=240]. He runs fast enough to pass Myrridan on one of the levels going up, and, once far enough ahead, stops, turns and says to his sword, 'slip slide' - generating a 10' patch of grease for the wild druid to enjoy traversing. Whether or not he gets over that patch, Bill tosses a battle net on him, missing (AC 7). Should he have opportunity to do anything beyond this, he will again get ahead of the druid, near the top of the tower, and stomp (Reflex save vs. DC 16 needed, or fall down, taking 1 hp subdual damage.] Should Myrridan fall, Bill jumps on him and begins grappling, just like he has seen his friend Ferak do!
[JK - I really need to know how thick the walls were Bill passed through, in order to know my current hit point total. Thanks! -Kim]
If Myrridan succeeds despite any obstacles that Bill, or Jus, or Nonam offer, then Bill will applaud the druid.
Bill Troublefinder Friday January 4th, 2002 4:10:02 PM
Boy, I started this post shortly after the, at the time, last post on the board by Jus at 1:13. Was interrupted mid-post (leaving on the screen), came back, finished my post, and saw a whole mess of posts in the interim. The board's hot today!
Well, the interim posts obviate most of his planned actions - except for the first stomp. Since, were it possible to do so and still get Myrridan, Nonam is just outside the stomp effect, I guess that Nonam makes it out.
Bill's blink effect is from the ring - and works when he activates it. No limits to time activated, that I can see, for the ring-wearer.
--------
Having knocked the door, Bill steps through, says, "C'mon, guys. Nonam's gone with the ring. Let's - oh, there he is! On the platform, just standing up." Bill's blinking stops, and he runs (move 240) over to the platform. "Way to go Nonam!" he shouts, and begins clapping enthusiastically. He waves for Jus and Myrridan to catch up.
Gareth Friday January 4th, 2002 4:18:42 PM
The warrior smiles at all the mass confusion and just watches as the mages compete with quite a flair. "Man I'm glad I'm not a mage...".
Myrridan the Wild Friday January 4th, 2002 4:54:46 PM
Myrridan looks blankly at the others. "Missed it by that much," he muttered as he held out his hand indicating an inch with his thumb and forefinger. "Well somebody had to win, or we would be fighting the crowd next!" "Lets go celebrate with Nonam," concluded Myrridan as he slowly spun into a misty cloud-like form (Windwalk) and flew up out of the tower. Gathering the wind with him as he flew, he snaked the funnel of air high into the sky and arched it back down to the earth beside the winner's circle. The wind calmed and Myrridan materialized beside Nonam. Grabbing Nonam's hand, he raises it to the air victoriously. The crowds roar with approval.
Myrridan whispers to Nonam, "Aren't you glad we didnt walk out together, they'd rip us to shreds." "Next time Nonam, next time ... when you feel the need for sport ... I'll be there!" Myrridan shouts, "But now, it's the time for the bards to sing and the spirits to flow!!"
Bill Troublefinder [OOC] Saturday January 5th, 2002 11:21:44 AM
[Will any XP accrue to those who participated in the melee or magic contests? I think Bill learned some things, such as, 'Avoid fighting Valdor or Gareth,' 'blinking is fun,' and 'Watch out for Myrridan the Wild.']
Jus Sunday January 6th, 2002 3:05:21 AM
Jus uses Dimension Door a couple of more times to drop himself next to Nonam a few seconds after Nonam arrives.
"You're welcome," Jus whispers as he shakes Nonam's hand. Loud enough for everyone to hear, he says, "I'm glad we haven't fought Druids before; I bet it would be a nasty fight. And I must figure out how Bill is doing his magic without any noticeable casting."
Bill Troublefinder Sunday January 6th, 2002 3:25:24 AM
"Tell you what, Jus. After Nonam gets whatever prize he's supposed to get and the cheering dies down, you help me get my anvil and rope out of that pond over there, and I'll try to answer your questions."
If Jus agrees, then Bill spends some time discussing the mental disciplines and powers of psionics. "And it doesn't hurt to have a ring that lets me blink, too!"
Tericus Monday January 7th, 2002 8:52:18 AM
"I wonder who will win?"
Mitchum Monday January 7th, 2002 11:14:24 AM
As the contestants finish, the announcer does not hestitate to wrap things up - glad there is a decisive winner. "Ladies and Gentleman! I give the winner of the magic contest - Nonam Firstorlast of the Storm Dragons!". The crowd cheers greatly - clearly pleased with the ending this time. "For all those who completed the course, you are awarded a voucher to the Catacombs for a scroll of any 1st level spell. The winner gets a voucher for a 3rd level scroll. For those who were in the warriors melee, you get potion of healing. Since there was no clear winner - no grand prize will be awarded! Thank you for you participation in the contest!". After a reception graciously put on by the curator of the arena, the day ends with celebration and new friendships forged. The end...
(OOC: OK. JK left without giving out XPs, so I'm going to do it. Everyone who participated in either battle gets 1/10 level in experience. If you were at both you get 2/10. I figured a close up look at the best in the land deserves a bit more than a "standad" module - and it was an extended module as well. I'll post the beginning of the new scene later today. DM DEH)
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