Nonam Friday April 12th, 2002 3:05:43 PM
Nonam puts his hand on Gareth's sword arm, "I think that enough has been said. Cantos, I'll be sorry to see you go. I wish you well in your travels. I hope that someday we'll laugh about this over a mug of ale."
Parting Ways - DMJK Friday April 12th, 2002 3:22:12 PM
The three dwarves and Shep step in to keep Cantos and Gareth from escalating their argument.
Boxer and the archon consult for a few moments, and then Shep speaks, "I was summoned here by Kennither, and I shall remain with him. It was ever my intent to leave your group after you reached the dwarves anyway. Hopefully we shall meet again. You have suffered terrible setbacks this week, but I pray that you will remember that Marteaus is the real enemy."
The archon's words are soothing, and he leads Cantos away from the rest of the group. One of the dwarven guards leads them down into the city.
Boxer looks at the rest of the group and whistles, "If the rest of you would kindly follow me." He leads the group down into the city by a different path.
The village seems quiet. Few people are out in the streets. No children seem to be playing. Everything seems deathly quiet. Finally Boxer stops outside a stone building across from a larger structure that looks like a palace. "I thought that I would leave the rest of you here and give you a chance to calm down before you meet with King Melair II. Work things out amongst yourselves, and I'll be back in a bit."
The building has a single room filled with comfortable chairs, a wash basin, and a tray filled with sliced mushrooms.
Gareth Friday April 12th, 2002 3:44:08 PM
Seeing the archon not too insulted by the wayward bard, the warrior calms himself and follows the dwarf. He lets the rage flow out of him, knowing he must be on his game if they are to be of any use against Marteaus. When left alone, he just stands there with the others a moment. Then he without any hint of sarcasm or anger asks the question. "So do you think we would be better served if another spoke for us than I? I only took the job because nobody else wanted it. I'll gladly let someone else do it."
Tericus Saturday April 13th, 2002 9:05:29 AM
Slumping down in one of the chairs, Tericus says, "If you're not comfortable doing it Gareth, then someone else should do it. I think the shock of dying and being brought back got to Cantos. Maybe some time to himself will calm him down, but who knows." Then Tericus puts his fingers on the bridge of his nose and squeezes softly, hoping to relieve some of his stress.
Gareth Sunday April 14th, 2002 8:02:29 PM
"I can do it, I'm just not wanting to if the group feels someone with more skill and diplomacy would be better. This really isn't a personal deal for me, I'm frankly more concerned with how well the group does. If somebody else would be better, then I'm all for it. If you guys think I'm still the guy for the job, that's fine too..."
Addinein Sunday April 14th, 2002 9:53:57 PM
"I do not assume to know anything about what has happened. Tempers have been known to create more misunderstandings than anything else. I'm not sure what we can really do to fix this. Time seems to be against us for us to discuss our options. We need to see this king as soon as possible, I think."
Nonam Monday April 15th, 2002 8:14:58 AM
Nonam sits down and lets out a long sigh, "Gareth, I was just trying to soothe Cantos. I don't think that I would do a better job. You remember the way Onrad and I got along. I can be just as brash as you if I don't have time to think about the results of my responses. Jus has a tendency to avoid serious talk. Addinein is a bit quiet. Tericus has a great deal of wisdom, and I could easily follow him. However, he's never shown a desire to lead. So unless Tericus wants the job, you might as well keep it.
I'd point out one thing for you to keep in mind though. Sometimes, it's best to bend over backwards in an apology. Even if you don't mean it."
The wizard stands up and stretches, "Gods, what an awful few days. I've just been reacting to events while keeping my feet moving. Now that we're here..." Nonam shakes his head and shivers.
DMJK Monday April 15th, 2002 8:16:26 AM
As of yet, no dwarves have come to summon you.
[Another day of posting for this conversation, then we'll have to move on. The YOA awaits.]
Gareth Monday April 15th, 2002 9:15:30 AM
The warrior sits with his friends and begins to relax. "You're right, of course. My skin is probably not a thick as it should be. I just can't stand it when criticism is unjustly heaped on me - but especially on my allies. It's not right. I'm not wise...".
After a time the warrior mulls over the past few days. "Well we at least took a bite out of the horde. Maybe we can take a few more over the next few weeks. It will take them a long time to climb to the next plateau and they'll be focused on that objective. So then we can strike and retreat again and again each time killing a few hundred of them. Perhaps we can cut off their supply lines and food sources. We could even poison their drinking water. Anything to slow them down. Is there any way we can locate Morlas? Maybe if we can find him and suprise him we can take him out once and for all. I'm wondering if we can coordinate with the dwarves and find out about those giants too. Man, there's a lot to do...."
Nonam Tuesday April 16th, 2002 8:25:10 AM
"I have a feeling that this Melair character will give us our next task, so we don't really need to plan it out. I'm more concerned about why Odysseus is no longer the king. As for Morlas, that was a contingency spell that teleported him away. Likely it triggers when he is badly wounded. I'll work on a solution."
Tericus Tuesday April 16th, 2002 8:57:15 AM
"If you don't want to speak for us anymore, I can do it," Tericus says to Gareth. "But personally I think you have done a wonderful job."
DMJK Tuesday April 16th, 2002 9:38:15 AM
There's a knock on the door. Then the door cracks open and Boxer sticks his head in, "They be ready fer ya. Ifn yas all be good nuff to faller me."
He swings the door wide and leads the remnant of the party across the street. The dwarven king's palace lacks the ostentatiousness most of you have come to expect from kings and rulers. Melair's hall is certainly grand, the stone work is exceptional, and there are numerous gold and mithril sculptures about the room. But other than size, it seems little different from what you've seen of the other dwarven dwellings in this city.
Boxer leads you all to an old looking dwarf sitting on a wicker chair. His hair is grey and his braided beard is long enough that it hangs lower than his feet. The beard is split into 2 braids that part around a fabulous ruby in an ornate mithril setting. Tericus immediately recognizes it as Alemi's holy symbol, a very nice one. Atop the dwarf's head sits a thin circlet. The craftsmanship in the crown is exquisite. It appears to be made of gold, silver, adamantite, and mithril woven into a braid. The front center is studded with 3 gemstones shaped into a pyramid. A diamond sits at the top and below it are an emerald and a sapphire. It doesn't take a rogue's trained eye to see that the crown is worth a dragon's fortune, and judging from the look of the tough as nails dwarven honor guard (4 on each side of the room), a dragon's treasure would be just about as easy to take.
The old dwarf looks up when the group comes into the room. A merry twinkle shines in his eye, and nimbly he hops down from the chair, "Welcome to my home. I'm Melair, a humble priest of Alemi... and I guess now I'm King Melair II of the dwarves. Not quite as important in my opinion, but a lofty spot nonetheless." Rather than wait for introductions the old dwarf keeps right on talking, "Let's get right on with business, shall we? Then we can hoist a few mugs and end this unpleasant day. I've only been king for a handful of days as Odysseus fell in battle with the giants. We've beaten the tall monsters back for now, but the toll on our folk was great. The toll on everyone below the plateaus was great. My agents tell me that the scene at Edenmoor was repeated in all the little towns from the southern coast right on up through the Red Hills. The forces of darkness struck the west too and moved against Osto, Fargunia, and Zilthmar. Lankmahr and Ailthmar seem to have disappeared too. The big cities in the west still hold, but they are besieged. The dark army is having a time ascending the plateaus in the east, but they're on their way up. As near as I can tell, Edenmoor is the only place the dark army took significant casualties. Ye did well there, but you only faced about 10,000 of the enemy. A million or more are moving up the plateaus. We thought to harry their supply lines, but they just seem to be eating all the folks they killed. It's a nasty, nasty business. Never in all my centuries have I seen the forces of evil rise up and work in accord like this.
"Times are bleak indeed. Kennither is dead, and your party is fractured. I tried to raise Kennither myself, but his soul refused to return. Seems he likes being with Alemi. Can't say that I blame him. Your bard isn't too happy about it though. He's finally sleeping, but his dreams are troubled. We'll keep him safe here as long as he wants to stay.
"So that brings me to how do we defeat this Marteaus fellow. Kennither and I belonged to a group of priests that believe that Alemi was once a mortal like the rest of us. I've long been a collector of documents that I believe the mortal Alemi wrote. Many of these refer to a diary. I've sought it for decades, and I think that I have some clues about its whereabouts. My duties here prevent me from going after it. I thought I would send you, but first you have to become dwarves. My people wouldn't have it any other way. You face the challenges and succeed, and we'll name you honorary dwarves. Then I can tell you more. Are you ready?"
Melair II looks over at Boxer, "Make sure witnesses are ready at the Stair. We'll have a trial today."
The guards in the room start whispering amongst themselves. It looks like they're making bets.
Gareth Tuesday April 16th, 2002 11:01:49 AM
The warrior smiles at Tericus' words. "I'll continue if that is what the group desires. But it's good to know there is another who will do it."
As the king rises, he bows in respect. When he speaks the warrior is shaken by the news that Kennither refuses to return. He holds his tongue and only nods as he mentions the bard. And he gasps audibly as the sheer number of the army is stated. "It sounds like the giants are being controlled by Marteaus too... We would be honored to aid the king in his noble quest. What will this diary do to help defeat him?"
Jus Tuesday April 16th, 2002 10:00:33 PM
As the party heads to the king, Jus chuckles as he considers Nonam's words. He keeps silent, having nothing to say that won't feed tempers.
When they arrive at the king's chamber, Jus takes the sights in stride. He is, however, surprised by the sheer numbers of the enemy reported by Melair. And troubled by Kennither's failure to return.
Whatever is needed, Jus will give. He's interested in what is meant by "becoming a dwarf", and nods at Gareth's offer to help.
Nonam Wednesday April 17th, 2002 8:04:34 AM
Nonam nods along when he hears of the diary, and thinking ahead, he tries to answer Gareth's question as he puzzles it out, "Books hold information Gareth. Think what this one might contain. If Alemi were once a mortal, then he clearly learned to to become a god. Since Alemi is considered the father of the gods, it stands to reason that he displaced some older gods. The diary could detail his ascension, and we could deny that means to Marteaus. Or it could tell how he defeated the old gods, and we could use that to destroy the Dark Lord. On the other hand, it might just have his old soup recipe."
Intrigued at the idea and wondering what it takes to become an honorary dwarf Nonam addresses Melair II, "I would be happy to undertake this quest. Recovering a lost document of this nature would normally be challenge enough, but also pursuing a definite goal will be a welcome change of pace."
Tericus Wednesday April 17th, 2002 9:30:37 AM
At the mention of Alemi's diary, Tericus's eyes light up for the first time in a long time. "I was wondering when I would have a chance to look for it," he says to himself, then he says, "We're ready to become dwarves. Is it going to hurt?"
To the Stair - DMJK Wednesday April 17th, 2002 9:36:51 AM
Melair II nods along with Nonam's answer about the bookm and he just grins at Tericus. Then he claps his hands together, "Well then, if you would all be so good as to follow me." The old king leads the way through the dwarven citadel pointing out the significance of various buildings and works of art along the way. His guards follow behind the group at a respectful distance.
Finally, the group arrives at what the old dwarf calls the Stair. It's hardly a name you would choose. They might be stairs for a titan, but certainly not stairs for dwarves or even humans. The rise of each "step" must be 10 feet. The width also appears to be 10 feet. The length is much longer for the steps runs the entire width of the large chamber. At the top of the steps sits an ornate anvil, and a hammer hangs behind it.
Melair points to the steps, "This is the trial all young dwarves face to earn their place in the ranks of our warriors. We all know how it works, but I'll offer a brief explanation for all of you. You must reach the top and ring the hammer on the anvil. Sounds simple so far, eh?" He chuckles and goes on, "The hammer and anvil are mighty magical artifacts, the symbols of our people. In order to heft the hammer, you must pass whatever challenge awaits your group upon each step." He points a finger at Nonam, "So, wizard, you can't just fly up to the top and ring it. Traditionally, the artifacts summon traditional enemies of the dwarves for you to fight on each step, but the challenge changes. So, I don't know exactly what you'll face. As long as one member of your party survives to ring the hammer, the artifact will raise you all. But if you all die upon the steps, then nothing will be able to revive you. This shows unity and loyalty to your brethren. One of you must fight on if your brothers fall. This is the greatest challenge of the stair. Many a time, a young dwarf has struggled on past horrific wounds to sound the hammer 'pon the anvil because he knew more than his own life was at stake!" A gathering crowd of dwarves gives a small hurrah at the king's last statement. It looks like you'll have quite an audience, and more dwarves are drifting in all the time. "You've had some trouble in your ranks of late, so if you don't trust your fellows that remain, now is the time to step aside. This challenge can be hard. In my years, I've seen hordes of goblins, drow war parties, giants, beholderkin, and even worse things summoned. And there's little chance to rest between steps. Choose carefully before you begin the climb. None here will think less of you if you choose to back down. It takes a fierce heart to wear the title of Dwarven Warrior, and we know few others have the might to pass our test!"
The crowd goes wild with the last statement. While they're cheering, Melair whispers to Addinein, "Lad, none of your kind has ever set foot in this place. Many eyes are upon you. Show them the honor of your family. Prove to some of these stubborn old souls that your house stands apart from the rest of drow society."
The cheers die down and Melair II throws up his hands and takes a step back, "The challenge is yours."
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5) d20+4=16 Wednesday April 17th, 2002 10:29:39 AM
The warrior looks to all his fellow dragons. "Our strife has never been in battle. We stand together as we always have! (CHA DC 16)." He looks to the others to make sure they are in agreement - and if so he exclaims "The challenge is accepted!"
Once done he turns to the others and says, "So I guess we'd better magic up. I'll take the front, fly up to the next stair, and hold the line while everyone else makes it up. Then you guys can blast'em with magic and arrows. How's that sound?" The warrior quaffs one of the kitty's potions of bull's strength. "There's still 5 healing potions and 5 strength potions in the kitty if anyone wants to take them."
Nonam d4+1=5 d4+1=4 d4+1=5 d4+1=4 Thursday April 18th, 2002 7:36:22 AM
Nonam starts off with the standard spells from his repetoire. Bull's Strength on Gareth(5) and Addinein(4). Endurance(5) and Cat's Grace(4) on Tericus.
He prepares to cast fly on himself and one other when the rest of the group is ready.
Gareth Thursday April 18th, 2002 8:14:59 AM
Once the spells are cast and everyone is ready, the warrior flies up to the first stair.
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) d4+1=3 d4+1=4 d4+1=2 d4+1=4 Thursday April 18th, 2002 8:36:28 AM
Answering Melair quickly and quietly, "Thank you for your words. I will do my best to not let you trust in my being here, down either."
As the rest get ready to go, "This sounds like it is should be an all together thing. I think we should all alight to the stairs at the same time. If you go seperately Gareth, you may be lost to us." He then casts Cats Grace on himself (+3) and Gareth (+4) and Endurance on himself (+2) and Gareth (+4) .
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows) d4+1=3 d4+1=4 Thursday April 18th, 2002 9:37:34 AM
Jus busies himself for the next few rounds casting several spells. He starts with Stone Skin, Bull's Strength, and Endurance on himself. Next comes a couple of Greater Magic Weapons on his bow and arrows (and other member's arrows), and then Keen Weapon on his (and other's) Arrows.
Nodding towards his friends, Jus says, "I'm ready."
"Unfortunately, I don't have fly. Someone will need to carry me, or we need to start pulling out some ropes."
"Oh," Jus adds, almost forgetting something. He pulls out a single glove and slips it onto his left hand. Pulling out his bow, he gives a couple of tugs and smiles. "Let's see if it was worth all that time and money...." Jus ponders.
Nonam Thursday April 18th, 2002 11:03:42 AM
Nonam rounds out the spells with a stoneskin on Gareth and another on Addinein. Then he casts alter self and sprouts himself a couple of angel wings. "That's me and Gareth. I can cast fly on Addinein and Jus. What about you Tericus? Can you cast that spell that lets you walk in the air?"
Tericus (DMJK) Thursday April 18th, 2002 11:07:27 AM
"I can cast it." The priest casts airwalk on himself.
[just to keep us from bogging down here, I'm going to post for Tericus. Sam, you can yell at me later if you want. -jk]
DMJK Thursday April 18th, 2002 11:13:28 AM
The dwarves start to boo as the companions magic up.
Nonam sprouts his wings and casts fly on Addinein and Jus. Gareth uses his boots, and Tericus calls on Tersallia. Then the group flies up to the 1st step.
10 vicious looking goblins are waiting. At first they seem a bit confused about the location, but then they call out for blood in their vile language.
Gareth d20+8=26 d20+8=24 d20+8=24 d20+8=23 d20+8=17 d20+8=27 d20+8=11 d20+8=22 d20+8=28 d20+8=9 d20+8=23 d10+32=34 d10+32=38 d10+32=40 d10+32=37 d10+32=41 d10+32=39 d10+32=42 d10+32=37 d10+32=37 d10+32=39 d10+32=41 d20+8=15 d10+32=35 Thursday April 18th, 2002 12:28:21 PM
Seeing no need for the casters to waste their magic on such creatures, the warrior begins to charge the goblins but he stops short about 15' and sets himself. Banging his sword on his shield he taunts them. He engages the goblins as they move into his space (attacks of opportunity, 7 Max) using all his combat savvy to do maximum damage and prevent himself from being hit. Focusing on the most injured opponent, he uses his 1 normal attack this round. He also cleaves any remaining combatant if any of them fall. (Expertise +5 = AC 35, Power Attack +13/+8/+3, Cleave, 168 HPs) (Hit AC {26,[24],24,23,17,27,[11],22,28,[9]},23 for {24+[38]+40+37+41+39+[42]+37+37+[39]}+41 DMG, Cleave: AC 15 for 35 DMG, Note []=Crit, {}=AoO)
Tericus(cats grace-4, endurance-5, air walk) Thursday April 18th, 2002 7:15:56 PM
(no problem JK. had a bit of an emergency to take care of this morning) seeing that Gareth probably has the goblins well in hand, Tericus casts prot. from elements(fire-131pts absorbed) on himself. then he says "If someone else needs to fly, I can cast air walk again."
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+15=25 d20+10=22 Friday April 19th, 2002 6:53:27 AM
Addinein moves up to support Gareth and aids with whatever attacks that he can. (AC 25 and 22 no crits).
Nonam Friday April 19th, 2002 9:41:02 AM
Nonam casts a greater magic weapon on his crossbow bolts and lets Gareth and Addinein take care of the goblins.
The goblin charge (DMJK) d20+3=13 d20+3=7 d20+3=21 d20+3=22 d20+3=8 d20+3=4 d20+3=12 d20+3=12 d20+3=23 d20+3=11 d8=5 Friday April 19th, 2002 9:48:22 AM
The goblin's rush to close with Gareth and Addinein. The dark elf drops his two, and in a flurry of sword strokes, Gareth finishes off the other eight.
Before dying, the goblins make their pitiful attack. One sword nearly slips in on Addinein, but the extra agility from the Cat's Grace spell helps him dodge out of the way.
The dwarves go absolutely berserk and cheer wildly. Anybody that likes to kill goblins can't be all bad.
Minotaurs on the next level (DMJK) d6=3 d6=6 d6=4 d6=3 d6=3 d6=4 d6=5 d20+6=21 d20+6=10 d20+6=15 d20+6=22 d20+6=10 d20+6=21 Friday April 19th, 2002 9:55:45 AM
A quick flight up to the next level and the group finds 5 minotaurs waiting. They seem a bit more prepared than the goblins, when the group flies up over the edge, they fire crossbow bolts. They aim for the casters first. Three bolts shoot at Nonam, 2 at Jus, and 1 at Tericus. All the bolts fly wide and miss.
Four of the minotaurs throw down their crossbows and pull out wicked looking great axes. The fifth crouches behind his companions and starts reloading his crossbow. Instead of charging, they form up ranks and wait for the attack.
The dwarves boo when the group flies again and hiss when the cowardly minotaurs shoot their stupid crossbows.
JK Friday April 19th, 2002 10:14:53 AM
[xp time, 2600 each for the Battle of Edenmoor. 200 to Cantos for watching over Kennither, 150 to Gareth for the defense plan, 100 to Tericus for getting rid of Morlas. -300xp to Nonam for casting limited wish. Hero points: 2 to everyone for being there. That'll cover most of the things you did individually. If you think someone deserves more than 2, make a case for it.]
Tericus(cats grace-5, endurance-4, air walk, Pff131) d20+9=24 5d8(6+1+2+8+8)=25 Friday April 19th, 2002 1:14:30 PM
quickly casting a spell, Tericus sends a beam of energy into the Minotaur reloading his crossbow(cast searing light, hit ac 24 for 25 pts of damage)
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) Friday April 19th, 2002 1:36:18 PM
Seeing the manner of the attacks, the warrior continues to fly but appears like he is landing on the stair. He activates his ring of invisibility and immediately flies up and over the creatures so he silently floats behind them with his head about 2 or 3 feet above theirs. He then prepares to attack. (Figured he didn't get to swing this round. Note: if there is not enough room for him to land, then he will simply go dark and charge).
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows) d20+14=25 d20+14=34 d20+14=27 d10+1=5 d6+1=2 d6+1=3 Friday April 19th, 2002 6:14:13 PM
Jus unsheathes his sword quickly and smoothly, in such a natural action that it doesn't interfere with his movement [Quick Draw]. Heading towards the minotaurs, he places the next step against his side to protect one of his flanks. Jus' movement prevents him from getting a full attack, but he manages to place what he can with skilled precision. (ac:25/34(possible crit)27)
Chuckling, Jus realizes that his attack skill isn't worth much against these creatures, as his swords do little damage to the well-muscled minotaurs. (dam:5/2/3)
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+16=27 d4+1=2 d20+11=22 d20+6=7 d6+6=10 d6=4 Monday April 22nd, 2002 5:39:11 AM
If possible, Addinein returns fire with a shot from his hand crossbow at the Minotaur with a crossbow still up for two points. Not knowing what Gareth is doing, Addinein lets the Minotaurs come to him (up to 7 AOO's) and tries to defensively wait patiently. (AC is 27, Dodge available against 1st Minotaur attack for AC of 28). If Minotaurs do not move into range, then Addinein will move into place to attack the Minotaurs (w/mobility AC is 31 in this case).
In either case, it is the rapier of dancing that Addinein will use first. (AC=22, 7 (fumble)) 14 points dam for AC 22). As Addinein tries to deliver his blows, he missteps and catches himself before he trips.
Nonam (GWM, alter self) d20+17=26 d8=8 Monday April 22nd, 2002 8:58:44 AM
Nonam lands on the next stair and brings his crossbow to bear on the minotaurs. When he sees Addinein slip, he fires on the one that is closest to the drow.
Nonam grins as he relies he fired a poisoned black lotus bolt. [ac26, 8pts dmg, fortDC20 or 3d6 con]
DMJK d100=20 d20+9=29 d20+9=14 2d8(2+7)+4=13 d20+9=18 d20+4=13 d20+9=25 d20+4=8 d20+6=26 Monday April 22nd, 2002 9:34:18 AM
Tericus shoots his beam of light at the crossbow minotaur, it drops the weapon and clasps it's hands to its eyes. It's hardly down and out though. (crossbow=min 1)
Gareth gets into position, and he hears the dwarves boo his choice to turn invisible. One of the minotaurs must have felt a change in the wind or something because it turns and chops with its axe. The thing must just be lucky because it manages to hit Gareth (13 dmg). [25% chance to detect rolled 20, rolled 20 to hit (14=missed crit), 13 dmg, don't think displacement works if you're invisible since it's a visual effect]. (on Gareth=minotaur 2)
Jus advances on the minotaurs with his sword, and the nimble fighter engages the hairy brute on the right end. He scores several minor hits on the creature. (on Jus=mino 3) The minotaur attempts to return the favor with its nasty axe, but Jus easily dodges the clumsy blows. Jus can hear one of the dwarves shout out, "Yas need a might bigger weapon, elf!"
Seeing that Tericus caused the minotaur to drop his crossbow, Addinein moves in to the left with his dancing blade. Moving gracefully, he stabs visciously into the minotaur's chest, but then he stumbles... Catching the drow's mistake, the minotaur tries to smash him with its axe. But Addinein follows through the stumble and dances past the blow. (mino 4)
Unable to get a clear shot on the minotaur fighting Addinein, Nonam hits the remaining minotaur with a well aimed bolt. The tough beast easily shrugs off the powerful poison.
-------- tallies: mino 1, center= 25 pts dmg mino 2, right center= 0 dmg mino 3, far right= 10 dmg mino 4, far left= 14 dmg mino 5, left center= 12 dmg (Nonam didn't add GMW to dmg), poison check again in 1 minute if the fight lasts 10 rounds for some reason
DMJK Monday April 22nd, 2002 9:35:36 AM
[Sam is without internet access through Friday. He sent me a new sheet if anyone wants to play Tericus.]
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+8=27 d20+8=11 d20+8=15 d20+8=26 d20+8=24 d10+32=40 d10+32=35 d10+27=28 d10+22=26 d10+32=41 d20+8=12 d20+32=33 Monday April 22nd, 2002 2:11:42 PM
The warrior endures the strike, suprised that he was detected. Figuring the thing smelled him, he decides he'll need to bathe soon. He maintains his defensive posture but he cuts into the creature using his superior position and invisibility for better attack results. He cuts into the thing fiercely. He cleaves another if the first falls. (Hit AC 31,[15],19,30,[28] for 40+[35]+28+26+[41] DMG Cleave: AC 16 for 33 DMG) (Expertise +5 = AC 35, Power Attack +13/+8/+3, Cleave, 155 HPs) NOTE: Added +2 for being above the monotaur and +2 for invis. - not included in initial rolls, sorry)
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows) d20+17=33 d20+12=28 d20+14=27 d10+4=9 d10+4=5 d6+1=6 Monday April 22nd, 2002 9:22:54 PM
Jus takes a moment to thumb his nose in the general direction of the dwarf's comments.
He then switches to his full attack and chops at the minotaur that's on him. Three more solid blows make connection(ac:33/28/27). This time Jus forces the blades to dig deeper into the creature's flesh (dam:9/5/6).
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+16=22 d20+11=13 d6+2=7 d6+2=8 d20+21=26 d6+6=9 d20+12=14 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 6:52:39 AM
Releasing the dancing blade, it continues to bear down on the Minataur. (AC 22 and 13) (7 dam on the first, 8 dam if the 2nd hits).
Hoping that the Minataurs are staying in their tight formation, Addinein goes into a whirlwind attack with his other rapier. (if not then two more attacks on same minataour if still up, another one, if not).
(occasionally, I hate scroll wheels. + for rapier is 17, not 21) AC 22 for 9 pts to all that he can get.
(AC 14 for 2nd attack if used)
Tericus (dmjk) d20+9=14 d20+5=16 d4=2 d4=2 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:13:00 AM
Deciding that the fighters are getting things under control and wanting to save some spells for the top, Tericus pulls out a sling and whips a pair of bullets at the minotaur Nonam shot.
[AC14,AC16,dmg2&2]
Nonam d20+17=21 d8+4=6 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:14:41 AM
Nonam grins at Tericus, "We'll get us one too!" Then he loads up another crossbow bolt and fires at the same minotaur. If all the taurs go down, Nonam moves in to help himself to some of their crossbow bolts.
[AC20, 6dmg]
No more minotaur (DMJK) Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:22:56 AM
Gareth quickly puts down the minotaur that made the mistake of attacking him. Then he cuts down the one in the center that is still clutching its eyes.
Addinein dances his rapier into his minotaur, and it scores one hit. The drow follows with a graceful attack that slips past his own dancing rapier and puts the fearsome beast down. He follows through with the whirlwind attack and strikes the other 2 that are standing.
With the help from Addinein's whirlwind strike, Jus is able to put down his minotaur.
Nonam and Tericus fell the last one without ever getting too close.
An empty step? (DMJK) d6=4 d6=2 d6=1 d20+5=24 d4=4 d6=5 d20+5=16 d4=4 d6=4 d20+5=23 d4=1 d6=2 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:39:55 AM
The companions pause a bit as the dwarves all cheer. Taking out minotaurs with swords and bows. That's what it's about. Then after making quick preparations, the group makes its way to the third step. At first it appears empty. Then the near invisible forms rise up from the ground and strike. They seem like little more than living shadows except for their red glowing eyes and their icy touch. Wraiths.
There are three of them, and they move to strike Jus, Addinein, and Gareth. Rising from the floor, they catch the heroes flatfooted, and the spirits care little about armor and only attempt to touch their victim.
Jus is the first to feel the icy claws grasping at his ankles. (touch AC24, 4pts dmg, fort save dc14 or 5 pts permanent con loss) Then Addinein feels one of the vile creature grasping his knee. (touch AC16, 4dmg, dc14 or 4con) The last pulls itself from the ground and up Gareth's legs. (touch AC23, 1dmg, dc14 or 2 con)
The dwarves all suck in a deep breath as they realize what the group faces on this step. They're more accustomed to seeing this sort of enemy near the top of the stair. More than a few gaze up wondering what will be in store at the top.
Tericius (JK) d20+2=7 2d6(5+2)+13=20 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:50:08 AM
Seeing the undead foes, Tericus wastes no time in pulling out his holy symbol and attempting to turn the wraiths.
[creatures with 10HD affected, up to 20hd turned]
Nonam d20+17=20 d8+4=9 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:53:53 AM
Ready with the crossbow and able to easily see the incorporeal creatures with his detect invisible vision, Nonam fires at the wraith on Jus before it is fully out of the ground.
[AC 20, dmg9]
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+11=20 d20+11=21 d20+11=18 d20+11=23 d10+29=33 d10+24=30 d10+19=28 d20+13=29 d10+29=34 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 1:20:26 PM
The warrior resists the icy touch of his adversary (DC 20). He brings his weapon straight down on the one touching him using his superior position for greater effect(+2 since it's below him). He still uses his abilities to avoid the strikes of the creature but opts to move toward a more standard attack to make sure he hits him. (Expertise +5, power attack 10/5/0), Hit AC (23,20,25 for 33+30+28=91 DMG - Cleave attack AC 29 for 34 DMG)
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+7=16 d20+17=25 d20+12=14 d6+5=11 Wednesday April 24th, 2002 6:45:28 AM
Feeling the icy touch of the Wraith and resisting his secondary attack, Addinein does his best to put a little distance between him and the wraith, and then returns the attack in kind. (using keen +2 rapier).
AC 25 and 14. 11 pts of dam for 1st hit if it hits.
No more wraiths (DMJK) d100=64 d100=91 d100=33 d100=90 d100=100 d100=41 Wednesday April 24th, 2002 10:35:21 AM
Nonam's bolt passes through the wraith and ricochets off the floor. It seemed to have had some effect though because the wraith immediately lets go of Jus.
Gareth's sword whips right through the middle of his wraith. His experienced hand can tell that it pulled on something a little more than air. At least it does the first time. The second attack makes him doubt his effectiveness. It felt like he connected with nothing. The third blow removes all doubt because the wraith wails and disappears.
Addinein's first blow cuts through the wraith, and he feels the blade drag on the apparition. The second strike misses all together.
Gareth cleaves to the wraith on Jus, but the sword chops empty air once again.
Then Tericus invokes the power of Teressalia. The two wounded wraiths scream and are destroyed with a bright flash of light.
The third stair appears to be clear, and the dwarves cheer.
[50% chance to miss incorporeal creature with any corporeal attack. N=64; G=91,33(miss),90; A=100; G cleave=41(Miss)]
Nonam (alter self, GMW, + perm detect magic, see invis, & prot from arrows) Wednesday April 24th, 2002 10:41:03 AM
Nonam goes to pick up the bolt he shot while giving the stair the going over with his detect magic vision to make sure there are no more wraiths.
While looking he says, "Not too bad so far. Those last two steps have given me an idea though. Perhaps I should scout out each step first. I can see if there are invisible creatures on it, and I've developed an immunity to arrows. I can shout out what's on the step. That way no one will get caught with their pants down, so to speak."
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) Wednesday April 24th, 2002 10:55:16 AM
"You can communicate through the ring what you find. I'll be right behind you..." The warrior moves up to the edge of the next stair and waits.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+11=13 d20+11=30 d100=58 Wednesday April 24th, 2002 2:04:43 PM
Jus disagrees with Nonam. "They may not appear until you land, which could be bad if you had multiple creatures draining you." Still, Jus shrugs, realizing that it would be nice to know what they are about to face.
Using this pause to his advantage, Jus casts Shield on himself, giving him +7 AC Deflection to his front (overcame 10% armor restriction).
d20s are saves from last turn, hero point used.
Tericus (JK) Wednesday April 24th, 2002 4:09:10 PM
"Jus is right. No offense Nonam, but if you land first and something appears, you might not fare so well. You can give a quick aerial check, but then let one of the tough guys land first."
The Voices of Gods [CDM Jerry] Thursday April 25th, 2002 12:07:32 AM
Throughout The Wold, voices are heard. The Voices of Gods.
"So mother, you have truly fallen and become that which your former priests spoke against for so long: A slave to Passion!"
"No daughter, I have evolved. I have found the truth. Love hurts. Passion brings joy. I am now dedicated to forcing the Races of The Wold to realize this truth. Only the truth will let the races evolve. Only the truth will bring balance to The Wold. Today I am here to teach you this truth. You have always been my favorite daughter. You always went with your passions and used your god given abilities to force those who loved deeply to see the joy that only passion can bring.
"Now however, daughter, you have regressed and embraced the pain of deep love. You have failed. Your teachings of deep love must and will end. I have brought a strong handsome god with me. Ga'al, meet Flower, my daughter. Is she not beautiful?"
"Yes. Very."
"I have not failed. I have seen the truth. Passion brought me nothing but pain and deep love has saved me. I have learned the love of family, friends, and even learned to love you, whom I once despised. Most of all, I have learned to love the people of The Wold, from whom I once took so much."
"Flower you have learned nothing. I will teach you to evolve. You will learn passion...with Ga'al."
"Caeroldra, you are so misled. I am truly sad. I will have nothing to do with a Cult God. I leave you. However, the next time we meet, even though I love you deeply, we meet as enemies. Goodbye mother....for all time"
"Fine. Die in ignorance."
"AAIIIIEEEEEE!"
"Goodbye....daughter."
::POP::
"I AM ALEMI! Carol, what have you done?"
"You do not control me any longer, Alemi!"
"I never controlled you. I simply loved you. Now it is my duty to judge you. I find you guilty of murder. The sentence is Oblivion!"
"NOOOO AAUUUUUUUGH!"
::The sky turns pink and then red as the Goddess of Love and the Goddess of Passion are slain.::
"Ga'al. Look upon me and recognize me.
"I AM ALEMI, SUPREME OF THE GODS OF WOLD! HEAR MY WORDS AND TREMBLE!
"For crimes against the Noble Races, I hereby judge the self-named Cult Gods GUILTY and declare HOLY WAR upon them!
"Now go, Ga'al and speak my words to your cowardly brethren. The next time we meet IT WILL BE WAR!!
"May The Wold mourn the passing of the GODDESS OF LOVE.
"I go to mourn the passing of an old friend."
::...And it begins to rain.::
- - - - - - - - - -
[Clerics of Caeroldra or Flower need to make a Will save DC 14 plus your Cleric Class Level. If you succeed, you are still beset with feelings of obsessive love or the urge to give in to your desires, but are able to control them to an extent. If you fail, your DM will tell you the results and the options available to you.]
[All non-Clerics must make a Will save DC 12 plus half your Character Levels. If you succeed, you are still beset with feelings of obsessive love or the urge to give in to your desires, but are able to control them to an extent. If you fail, your DM will tell you the results and the options available to you.]
Addinein d20+12=17 Thursday April 25th, 2002 6:47:02 AM
Feeling the compulsion wash over him Addinein stops short for a second and blinks.
Looking at the others in the group Addinein gauges their reactions to see if they might have experienced the same thing.
Nonam d20+8=9 d20+8=28 Thursday April 25th, 2002 9:49:57 AM
Nonam, looks a bit confused at hearing the voices, and he mumbles something about, "When did Flower become a goddess?"
Then he starts thinking about the times he visited the Temple of Caeroldra thinking that if he was going to have a patron deity that he would choose her.
Before getting too deeply lost in thought, the scene of the stair and the dead minotaurs lying on the step beneath snaps him back to reality.
[used a hero point]
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+5=20 Thursday April 25th, 2002 9:50:38 AM
The warrior grits his teeth as it is clear that yet another confrontation among the gods is taking place. He gasps as he feels the sheer release of power as the mother and daughter fall. He shudders as feelings he struggles with daily (he is 23 you know) become much more intense - but manages to hold them in check for now. He wonders about Qualde and how she's going to deal with this.
After a moment, he looks about to the others to make sure they are OK. If so, the warrior nods and continues the fight.
DMJK Thursday April 25th, 2002 9:51:20 AM
Below some of the dwarves looked panicked. Others are weeping, but most grunt approval when Alemi banishes Caeroldra.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+13=19 Thursday April 25th, 2002 2:43:41 PM
Jus can't believe another god, two gods, have fallen again. Flower and Caeroldra.
Jus' head jerks up and looks toward Cantos as he realizes... he whispers her name in sorrow, "Qualde".
made save
Tericus d20+12=30 Friday April 26th, 2002 8:57:11 AM
Tericus looks up toward the ceiling in fear for his own first love, Teresallia. He begins singing a song of love and devotion to his goddess.
Awash in a sea of passion - DMJK Friday April 26th, 2002 9:07:52 AM
A few of the dwarves down below grab a member of the opposite sex and sneak out of the hall.
Addinein feels overwhelmed by passion and desire. The rest of the group is able to function normally, but you all feel an overwhelming sense of brotherhood and camaraderie. Fighting on the Stair seems like a pointless expenditure of energy, but you know it must be done.
It's time to move up to the fourth step. Nonam flies up first and stops stunned at the lip. The rest of the group, rushing in to discover the source of Nonam's apprehension see a revolting sight. Two driders. Two driders making love. The nasty spiderlike things are completely oblivious to your presence. No wonder with the noises they're making.
A dwarf down below retches loudly.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+17=25 d10+27=32 Friday April 26th, 2002 10:19:55 AM
The warrior is appalled and frowns with disdain at the thought of such creatures reproducing. But he is not about to let an advantage such as this go by untaken. He moves into position behind the closest one - again shielding the casters from any attacks that might come from the beasts and hopefully preventing the other vile creature from realizing they are under attack. He cuts into the creature using the full force of his attacks, not worring about finesse, just brute force (+2 surprise, +2 size, +2 back[?], +13 Power Attack, no expertise sice melee hasn't begun. Hit AC 25 for 32 DMG). He then begins his defensive stance, hoping to get his attacks first before the creatures can set and attack.
Nonam (alter self, GMW, + perm detect magic, see invis, & prot from arrows) 10d6(6+5+5+2+6+1+2+5+3+2)=37 Friday April 26th, 2002 11:39:18 AM
Too sickened now to think of love and Caeroldra, Nonam takes his wand of lightning bolts and zaps the drider jumble.
[37 dmg ea, ref dc20]
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+25=30 d8+10=11 d10=8 d6=5 d6=4 Friday April 26th, 2002 9:38:03 PM
Jus looks disgusted at the sight revealed on the next step. Not wanting to get too close due to his revulsion, Jus pulls out his bow (quick draw) and point-blank fires an arrow at one of the drider [ac: 30 dam: 28].
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+15=30 d20=6 d6+5=7 d20+12=32 d20=7 d6+5=7 Saturday April 27th, 2002 5:14:42 PM
Shock registers on Addinein's face as he recognizes a drider. Jumping on top of the tumbling mass (death from above) Addinein quickly attacks ((AC 30,no crit) 7 points of dam (AC 32 no crit)(sheesh no storyline support) for 7 more points of dam) trying to end their lives as quickly as he can.
Tericus Monday April 29th, 2002 8:25:44 AM
Tericus turns on the step in revulsion. The others look like they have this one under control.
No more driders (DMJK) Monday April 29th, 2002 8:27:46 AM
Addinein's savage leap ends the lives of the pitiful driders. Of course, Gareth, Nonam, and Jus helped out a bit.
Umberhulks (DMJK) Monday April 29th, 2002 8:43:58 AM
Following the pattern, Nonam flies up to the next step and calls out what he sees. He yells down below, "giant bugs."
The umberhulks are spread out across the length of the step and not bunched up by one another. Each is throwing a confusing gaze towards the party with their bulbous bug eyes.
(will dc 15 or confused, To avoid future gaze attacks, you can avert eyes and get 50% chance to avoid needing to save, or blindfold yourself)
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+5=17 d20+12=23 d10+27=35 Monday April 29th, 2002 9:54:58 AM
The warrior approaches the lumbering creatures (how many?). He approaches the one on the left so the casters can do their thing. He appraoches from as far left as possible so as to avoid more than one attacking him at a time. He fights defensively, not wanting to take any hits from such a large creature. He also decides he doesn't really need to see to fight the loud hulking masses, closes his eyes, and uses his Improved Blind Fighting abilities to avoid the gazes. He cuts into the creature with his only attack and hopefully makes a dent in it. (Hit AC 23 for 35 DMG, Expertise +5, Power Attack +13, Improved Blind Fight - no penalties)
JK Monday April 29th, 2002 3:29:18 PM
oops, there are 3. Spread out far across the step. I'll try a little text map, and we'll see how well it works. It seems to ignore spaces, so I used dashes to space. They don't stand for anything.
------------------------------step up ---U---------U----------U----- ------------------------------ ------------party------------- ------------------------------step down
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+25=29 d10+10=20 d8=2 Monday April 29th, 2002 5:02:38 PM
Jus lands and uses his bow once again, moving to the right a few steps before he fires at the right bug. He is a little hasty in his aim, though (ac: 29), but hopefully it is enough to hit the creature. (dam: 22)
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+6=14 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 5:32:43 AM
Still distracted by the event with the Driders, Addinein does not avert his eyes in time before seeing the Umberhulks. Confused, he is temporarily stunned.
Nonam d20+8=26 d20+8=15 d20+8=20 10d6(1+5+4+6+6+1+3+4+2+5)=37 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 9:46:43 AM
As the scout Nonam looked at all three umberhulks, but their gazes didn't have enough power to effect him.
Lightning wand still in hand, Nonam decides to use it on the giant bug in the center.
(37dmg, same as last time, ref dc20)
Tericus (JK) d20+10=30 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 9:49:10 AM
Perfectly in control, Tericus sees that Addinein has fallen under the umberhulk's spell. Seeing Gareth and Jus involved with the monsters on the sides, the priest hefts his mace, sets it to singing, and braces himself to take any attacks of opportunity if the middle creature charges the main group.
The incredible umberhulks (DMJK) d20+11=25 d20+11=26 d20+11=14 d20+9=14 2d4(1+4)+6=11 2d4(2+4)+6=12 d20+11=31 d20+11=18 2d4(1+3)+6=10 d20+11=20 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 10:00:06 AM
Gareth easily hacks into the umberhulk he engages, but the single blow is not near enough to fell the creature.
The thing was ready for an attack and takes an attack of opportunity with a heavy clawed fist (AC25). Then it follows with a full attack, two claws and a snapping bite with its big mandibles. It also focuses its gaze on Gareth, but the wily warrior has his eyes shut tight. [don't think AC25 or 26 hits Gareth using expertise. if it does, dmg is 11&12]
Jus pins the right umberhulk with a single arrow. Enraged the beast charges straight at the elf. (AC31, a roll of 20) The powerful, chitinous hand smacks into Jus and nearly topples him over backward. (dmg 10 (from stoneskin), reflex dc10 to stay on your feet). To add insult to injury, the creature focuses its gaze on Jus.
Nonam blasts the center umberhulk, and it follows its companion's strategy. It charges at Nonam, but the nimble mage manages to slide out of the way (AC20). Tericus was ready for the beast and gets his attack of opportunity along with his regular action.
The dwarves down below cheer Gareth on as he moves in to fight hand to hand, dwarven style. They wince in unison when Jus gets smacked.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+7=13 d20+7=9 d20+10=29 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 3:59:26 PM
Jus makes sure his Shield (+7 AC) is protecting him from the Umberhulk's attacks. He gets hit hard, but manages to keep his feet (made reflex save with last roll).
Jus starts to draw his swords, but... too late! The Umberhulk's gaze hits Jus full force, dazing him this round (failed save and hero-point save).
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin) d20+10=19 d20+10=30 d20+10=30 d20+10=26 d20+10=22 d20+10=22 d10+27=30 d10+22=32 d10+17=18 d10+27=34 d10+27=28 d10+27=30 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 4:08:26 PM
Seeing his attack is pretty effective and the lumbering oaf's inability to hit him the warrior cuts into the creature again with his startling attack sequence. Once he finishes off his foe he moves to the next one and begins anew with whatever attacks remain. (Hit AC 19,30,[26],30,[22],{22} for 30+32+[34]+18+[28]+{30} DMG. Note: added {} cleave attack if applicable. Expertise +5, Power Attack +13/+8/+3, Improved Blind Fight - no penalties, still all stoneskins).
JK Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:24:26 AM
Should have been rolling a d10 for the confused. 1 you wander away for 1 minute. 2-6 do nothing for 1 round. 7-9 attack nearest creature for 1 round. 10 act normal for 1 round. The spell lasts 8 rounds, and the d10 is rolled each round unless a 1 comes up, then you wander for the duration.
Tericus (JK) d20+11=25 d20+11=29 d20+6=11 d8+3=11 d8+3=11 d20+10=27 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:28:01 AM
Tericus sings with his mace, and bashes the umberhulk that dashed at Nonam. The beautiful song stands in sharp contrast to the beating Tericus gives the bug thing.
(AC25,29,11 Dmg 11,11) (save 27)
Nonam (gmw, alter self, see invis, others) d20+8=10 d20+8=22 d100=85 5d4(3+2+1+1+4)+5=16 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:32:09 AM
Nonam shakes off the confusing glare from the umberhulk that rushes him (hero pt). Then he zaps the thing with a magic missile. (16)
The Spectacular Storm Dragons (DMJK) d20+8=15 d10=8 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:49:04 AM
Gareth fells his umberhulk in a full attack, but he's too far away to cleave to the next monster. He sees that Tericus and Nonam have theirs under control, but the one on the bewildered Jus poses the greatest threat. It's also the one farthest away from Gareth.
Tericus smashes the center umberhulk with his enchanted singing mace and ooze splatters out of the crushed exoskeleton. Then Nonam's missiles tear a chunk from its armored hide. The wicked giant-thing is brutally wounded, but it still fights on.
Jus' belt of spell resistance throws off the confusion, and the elf is free of the enchantment.
Addinein feels compelled to attack the creature nearest him. (rolled d10 for you=8. roll a d6 to see who is closest: 1,2=Nonam; 3,4=Tericus; 5-6=umberhulk)
The not-so incredible umberhulks (DMJK) d20+11=23 d20+11=17 d20+9=27 d20+11=20 d20+11=14 d20+8=25 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:57:50 AM
Gareth kills his umberhulk before it has a chance to swing again. He is behind the other two, so their gazes aren't focused on him.
The umberhulk on Nonam tries to bash the puny mage once more. The wizard dodges the first blow and turns the punch aside with his mithril shield. The mandibles seem like they will certainly snap the wizard's head off, but some unseen magical force holds back the force of the blow.
Due to the spell resistance, Jus is able to fully defend himself. He dances through the blows turning them with shield and bow.
Tericus d20+11=29 d20+6=9 d8+4=7 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 9:39:45 AM
(hi, im back. thanks for playing my cha. JK) continuing to sing, Tericus lands another blow on the monster(ac 29 for 7 pts)
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin) d20+12=28 d10+27=34 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 10:38:42 AM
The warrior moves quickly to close with the creature on Jus, passing the one fighting Tericus and Nonam (as it seems they are doing fine). He lashes out from his flanking position on the creature calling to it "Hey, maybe you'd better fight me instead?". He cuts into the thing and makes sure it understands that it better turn around. (hit AC 28 for 34 DMG, +2 TH large creature, +2 flank, Expertise +5, Power Attack +13, still all stoneskins).
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+18=35 d20+13=18 d20+15=27 d10+3=4 d10+3=13 d6+3=4 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 2:00:46 PM
Jus comes to and whips out both his swords. He unleashes a full attack on the Umberhulk, wailing unmercilessly on the creature. (ac: 35/18/27; dam: 4/13/4)
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d8=6 d20+15=26 d6+5=11 d20+10=24 d20=19 2d6(5+5)+10=20 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 2:55:05 PM
Addinein quickly decides that the Unberhulk is the closest thing that he can go after. AC 26 for 11 and AC 24 (crit) for 20 points of damage.
Nonam Wednesday May 1st, 2002 3:48:12 PM
A little too close to the melee for comfort, Nonam quickly comes to the decision that the swordguys are all doing their thing just fine without him getting in the way. So he flaps flaps his wings to try to get up and out of harm's way.
no more umberhulks (dmjk) Thursday May 2nd, 2002 9:41:32 AM
The party cuts down the last of the bug things to the screams of cheering dwarves. The nastiness with the driders seems to be forgotten. With the umberhulks gone, Addinein soon returns to his normal, thinking self.
Up to the next step, and...
oops (dmjk) Thursday May 2nd, 2002 9:56:02 AM
Before Nonam even peaks his head over the top of the next step, he's caught by a mind flayer's mind blast. (will dc17, or stunned 3d4 rounds)
There are 4 rubbery illithids lining the 6th step and looking down. They don't intend to share the fate of the umberhulks, and they're making it perfectly clear. A voice speaks in each of your minds, "Where are we? Do you capture and kill us for sport? This will not be so."
Gareth feels something attempting to control him as two more of the illithids attempt to charm him (will dc17, twice).
The fourth illithid seems to shift sideways and disappears.
The watching dwarves look a little nervous as they see the newest foes.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) Thursday May 2nd, 2002 4:43:39 PM
Jus casts Glitterdust on the step above, with hopes to catch most the beasties in the effects before the party arrives.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin) d20+5=23 d20+5=25 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 5:32:38 PM
The warrior grits his teeth as the wave of mind power washes over him. He goes invisible and rises to the step. He hovers above the illithids looking for the invisible one. If he is able to find it he closes, if not he closes with the one trying to blast Nonam and prepares to attack.
Tericus 11d6(3+3+6+2+2+4+4+5+1+2+3)=35 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 6:39:01 PM
trying to catch as many of the flayers as he can, Tericus casts Flame strike on the monsters, burning them with holy flames(10 ft radius, 35 pts of damage, save of 19)
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+15=22 d6+5=7 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 11:29:26 PM
Not wanting to give the illthids time to think after all the attacks, Addinein tries to move in for a whirl wind attack, doing his best to be an annoyance.
AC 22 for 7 points.
Nonam d20+8=9 3d4(4+1+1)=6 Friday May 3rd, 2002 8:10:21 AM
The mind blast stops Nonam cold, and he freezes in place. Without flapping the wings to keep himself aloft, he crashes back into the step below.
(out for 6 rounds)
the heroes (DMJK) d20+9=27 d20+9=19 d20+9=11 d20+9=17 d20+11=26 d20+11=22 d20+11=14 d20+4=6 d6=2 Friday May 3rd, 2002 8:41:31 AM
Jus lights up the first mind flayer, but the other three resist his spell.
Gareth reaches the top and tries to find the one that disappeared, but he doesn't see it. So he moves over to one that he thinks zapped Nonam. There was no physical manifestation of the mind attack, but the one in the center looks a little more menacing.
Tericus' flame strike breaks into the illithid ranks. The flames totally engulf the same creature lit by Jus' spell, but the other 2 stand unharmed in the midst of the fire. Gareth is close enough to the spell that he needs to see if he's caught in it. (even-odd roll, even=in, odd=safe) (if you're caught, then roll reflex for 1/2 DC19)
Addinein tries to close with the 3 monsters for a whirlwind attack, but they all move backwards and farther apart to stay out of his way.
Nonam hits the ground in a heap (2 dmg).
Mindflayers (DMJK) d20+8=22 d20+8=28 d20+8=14 d20+8=22 d20+8=28 d20+8=12 d4+1=5 d4+1=5 d4+1=5 d4+1=4 Friday May 3rd, 2002 8:58:45 AM
The mindflayer that disappeared steps out on the floor of the 5th step. He crouches by the fallen Nonam and lashes out with his tentacles. All four attach to the near helpless wizard's head. (22,28,[14],22,28,[12] - 19 dmg)
Jus and Tericus have a good chance to see what's going on with the wizard since they didn't attempt to move into melee, but Gareth and Addinein have their full attention focused on the floor above. (spot dc12 for J&T, spot dc25 for G&A)
The three mind flayers above continue to drift backwards so that they aren't in view by those on the step below. Jus and Tericus will each have to choose to help Nonam or Addinein and Gareth.
Gareth hears a voice in his mind, "Just because we don't see you doesn't mean we don't know you are there. Even as simple as your mind is, it is still a beacon." The mind flayer on the right looks up in the general direction of Gareth and lets loose another mindblast. (will dc17)
The mindflayer in the center blasts at Addinein (will dc17).
The monster on the left, the one burned by Tericus, crouches down and manages to shoot his mindblast cone so that Gareth and Addinein are both in the area of effect (will dc17). The maneuver has left it in a nearly prone position, and if Addinein resists its mind attack, it will have little chance to defend itself.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin) d2=1 d20+15=29 d20+10=17 d20+5=20 d10+24=31 d10+19=26 d10+14=15 d20+15=28 d10+24=33 Friday May 3rd, 2002 9:14:13 AM
The warrior avoids the flame strike and then moves in on the middle flayer, lowering down from behind - but staying off the ground a couple of feet to gain the "high ground" advantage. Seeing Nonam drop he knows he'd better be quick about it. He cuts mercilessly into the creature, knowing the wold a better place without it. He cleaves one of the others if his quarry goes down. (Hits AC 29, 17, and 20 for 31+26+15=72 DMG, Hit AC{28} for {33} DMG. +2 TH above creature, +2 TH flank, Expertise +5, Power Attack +10/+5/+0, still all stoneskins)
Gareth, cont. d20+5=20 Friday May 3rd, 2002 3:34:14 PM
The warrior does not see Nonam (no chance to get a DC 25 spot check) and focuses on his task at hand. Hearing the flayer speak in his mind, he braces for what he knows is coming and somehow keeps his wits through it again (sv DC 20) - but knows deep down he can't do it for long.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+23=41 d20+18=31 d20+23=31 d20+23=28 d8=4 d10+10=18 d8=6 d10+10=18 d8=4 d10+10=17 d8=3 d10+10=19 Friday May 3rd, 2002 4:26:31 PM
Nonam may be a good target for the Mind Flayer, but the Flayer is a great target for Jus. Sheathing his swords and grabbing his bow (Quick Draw Feat), Jus takes aim at the aberration. He takes his time lining up his first shot to ensure he doesn't hit anyone (Precise Shot Feat).
Jus' patience pays off as his shot hits a critical spot on the Flayer (ac: 41(crit: 28); dam: 22(22)). His aim continues to be good as he follows up with two more arrows (ac: 31/31; dam: 24/21).
Jus laughes out loud, taunting the Mind Flayer in an attempt to turn its attention onto Jus. "Some intelligence you are; your mother must have been a slime mold."
Tericus d20+12=24 Friday May 3rd, 2002 6:43:23 PM
seeing the danger that Noonan is in, Tericus turns from the battle up top. calling on the power of his goddess, Tericus screams at the flayer "WITHDRAW!!"(casts command on the mind flayer)
[JK] Saturday May 4th, 2002 12:30:15 PM
[I think that Gareth didn't roll a save for the last mindblast. Will DC17]
Look at the "Gareth, cont" post. Made the save.
Thought that was a try for a spot check. - jk
Edited post to be more clear. Sorry bout that.
DMJK d20+8=15 d20+8=21 d20+8=19 d20+8=28 d20+8=21 d4+1=4 d20+8=22 d20+8=17 d20+8=12 d20+8=28 d20+8=24 d4+1=3 Monday May 6th, 2002 9:04:13 AM
Up above: Addinein hesitates while Gareth beats on the mindflayer in the center. His second blow goes astray, and the other two are not quite sufficient to finish the creature off. The center flayer turns and lashes at Gareth with its tentacles, and one of the rubbery appendages strikes the warrior in the face. The tentacle leeches on. (4pts from stoneskin, don't think you took minotaur dmg off stoneskin).
Thinking Addinein must have succumbed to the mindblast, the monster on the left attacks him with its tentacles. One of them connects and leeches on to him as well (3pts). [2 connect if he missed one of the mindblast rolls from last turn]
The third mindflayer on top attempts to charm Gareth once again as it packpedals far enough that Gareth can't get a full attack in on it when his buddy falls. (will dc17)
Down below: Jus fills the mindflayer on Nonam full of arrows, and it falls down dead atop the hapless mage. The tentacles are still attached to his face. Tericus' spell has no effect on the dead mindflayer.
Addinein d20=17 d20=16 d20+15=34 d20=3 d6+5=11 d20+10=13 d6+5=6 Monday May 6th, 2002 10:56:05 AM
Making both his will saves Addinein bursts into action. As the creature attaches to Addinein, he reacts in revultion as he remembers the stories he's been told of these creatures.
AC 34 (no crit) 11 points damage. AC 13 for 6 points
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin ) d20+5=9 d20+5=21 d20+15=21 d20+10=26 d20+5=9 d10+24=28 d10+19=29 d10+14=17 d20+15=27 d10+24=28 Monday May 6th, 2002 3:44:46 PM
The warrior gasps as he fights against the flayer trying to control his mind. Feeling his wits slipping away from him quickly (failed roll), he controls his fears and once again somehow fights off the charm (Hero Point reroll - 21). He again attacks the creature in front of him not wanting to give the thing a hold. He then attacks the one on Addinein. (Hits AC 21, 26, and 9 for 28+29+17=74 DMG, Hit AC{27} for {28} DMG. +2 TH above creature, +2 TH flank, Expertise +5, Power Attack +10/+5/+0, all stoneskins less 1 - Gareth was not hit by the Minotaurs)
Tericus d8+12=15 Monday May 6th, 2002 7:30:31 PM
seeing that the flayer cant do any more damage to Noonan, Tericus says "Im heading up top. It sounds like its not going too well." then Tericus moves up to the next level. seeing that some of his friends are injured, he casts Healing Circle, healing 15 pts of damage to all his friends
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) Tuesday May 7th, 2002 4:11:01 AM
Jus nods to Tericus, but doesn't leave Nonam yet. "Don't forget that one of those things went invisible," Jus reminds Tericus.
Jus attempts to remove the tentacles from Nonam, to ensure they can't do any more damage.
Casting Alter Self on himself, Jus gives himself wings as Nonam had, to allow him to continue upwards when Jus is done with his friend.
[jk] Tuesday May 7th, 2002 10:30:05 AM
[The DM turn for April 22 has a minotaur hitting Gareth with an axe for 13pts dmg. It rolled a 20. You were invisible, so the displacement didn't work. Gareth's turn for April 22 said the minotaur must have smelled you to get be able to get the shot in. Plus didn't the mind flayer just take off 4 and not just 1.]
I stand corrected. So now he has how many left?
I think I see what you're doing. You're still thinking of stoneskins like in 2e. Stoneskins work quite a bit differently now. They give you damage protection 10/+5 up to a certain number of points. With one Nonam cast it's 130. So with the minotaur hit, the stone skin absorbed 10 and you took 3 points. With the mind flayer, the stoneskin absorbed all 4. So of 130 points of protection you have 116 points left. And if it ever comes up, the stoneskin won't stop a +5 weapon at all. -jk
DMJK d100=76 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 10:43:54 AM
The mindflayers conveniently spread out on their first turn so that they are standing some 10 ft apart. This prevents whirlwind attacks, cleaves, and a full attack when moving to engage a new one.
Addinein cuts into the one he's been facing, but it's not enough to dispatch it. Gareth finishes the opponent before him and moves to help Addinein.
Tericus casts his healing circle. His placing is near perfect, and he doesn't heal up either of the remaining mindflayers.
Jus gets the tentacles out of Nonam's face and then sprouts his wings in preparation to fly upward. (rolled his armor check)
Nonam is still out, but doesn't look like he's in a life threatening situation anymore.
DMJK Tuesday May 7th, 2002 10:45:59 AM
The mindflayer on Addinein blasts the drow and the approaching Gareth with another mindblast (will dc17).
The other standing mindflayer shifts sideways and disappears much like its companion did earlier.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 8 left) d20+5=16 d20+5=20 d20+15=27 d20+15=18 d20+15=32 d10+24=30 d10+19=22 d10+14=20 d20+15=29 d10+24=27 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 11:17:21 AM
Again fighting the mind energy assaulting his mind the warrior falters a moment before heroically resisting yet again (Hero Point Reroll - 20). As he flies about 2 feet off the ground still to gain the height advantage, he cuts into the last foe he sees, trying to take it out quickly. (Hits AC 25, 16, 30, [27] for 30+22+20+[27]=99 DMG, +2 TH above creature, Expertise +5, Power Attack +10/+5/+0 - DOH! I've been messing up my attack rolls. Oh well. I also subtracted 2 for flank.)
DMJK Tuesday May 7th, 2002 11:52:43 AM
Gareth finishes the 2nd mindflayer leaving the rest of the group free to deal with the other one.
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+6=20 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 2:00:25 AM
Gritting his teeth as the mindflayer contiues his attack, Addinein blocks the mindflayer's attack. (will save 20).
As Gareth mows down the mindflayer in front of him, Addinein quickly takes stock of the party's situation. Someone in the group should have see invisible already, so he's just going to wait until there's something to do, or the missing mindflayer has been found.
Tericus Wednesday May 8th, 2002 9:06:09 AM
not seeing any of the other flayers around, Tericus casts true seeing on himself and scans the area for their foes. "Ill find them in a minuet." he says to the others
running away? - DMJK Wednesday May 8th, 2002 9:12:34 AM
Tericus' true seeing spell does not reveal the mindflayer. He scans for a few moments and turns up nothing. The thing seems to be gone.
After a couple more minutes Nonam revives.
The 4th mindflayer still has not reappeared by the time the wizard is back on his feet. Evidently it did something besides turn invisible.
Nonam Wednesday May 8th, 2002 9:15:53 AM
Nonam rolls away from the mindflayer in disgust and nods his thanks to Jus when he sees the arrows sticking out of the thing. When he realizes he isn't hurt too badly he thanks Tericus too. Then the wizard quickly flaps up to the mindflayer step to see what's going on. Seeing it empty, he suggests, "On to the next step then? I seem to be alright."
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 130 pts left) Wednesday May 8th, 2002 9:45:19 AM
The warrior frowns at the prospect of the missing flayer and shakes his head violently to clear it from the mind attacks. "I've got to figure out some way to protec against that. I can't fight them off very well... I bet the thing has gone up a step to ally itelf with whatever comes next. Let's go.". He grins ear to ear and quips evilly, "So Nonam, want to go first again? :)".
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) Thursday May 9th, 2002 1:13:50 AM
"I have wings now, I'll take a turn," Jus says.
He looks around to ensure everyone is ready. Mumbling something about idiotic elves needing to visit the Catacombs for invisibility, he beats his wings and begins to rise.
This time, however, he prepares the spell feeblemind before reaching the next step; ready to cast it on whatever foe looks the most intimidating -- or anyone trying to cast a spell on Jus when he arrives.
Addinein Thursday May 9th, 2002 3:47:37 AM
Addinein cleans off the remains of the mindflayers. As he waits for the others in the group to recover he comments, "These are disgusting creatures that some of the families ally themselves with."
Hook Horrors Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:42:08 AM
Jus flies up and sees that giant ugly crablike monsters are all over the 7th step. There are 8 of them. He doesn't know what the things are, but Addinein does: hook horrors.
The hook horrors are spread out around the step in a random fashion. Here, two are together. There, one is standing alone without another near him.
They don't seem to see the party fly up for the look, but they angle their heads even at the quiet sound of Jus and Nonam's wings.
The one front and center beats its crablike claws together and instantly all of the creatures are alert.
The dwarves, a bit unnerved by the mindflayers, start to come around again. One of them screams out, "Bash 'em. None of that sissy magic!"
crude map: up [h------h--------------] [-h-------------h-h----] [-------h-h------h-----] [---h------h---h----h--] down
Nonam 10d6(4+6+2+1+2+4+3+1+6+6)=35 Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:46:16 AM
Nonam decides that he's held back on spells long enough. Plus he feels the need to prove his worth to that loud-mouthed dwarf. He casts a fireball in the middle of the cluster on the right. "Who wants crab for dinner?"
(35dmg, ref22 1/2)
Tericus d20+9=25 5d8(2+6+1+6+7)=22 Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:57:56 AM
targeting the nearest one, Tericus casts searing light on the monster, hitting ac 25 for 22 pts of damage. then he pulls out his mace and prepares to attack
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 130 pts left) d20+23=26 d10+14=19 Friday May 10th, 2002 8:49:42 AM
The warrior decides to go left as Nonam goes right with his magic assault. He attacks the one on the front left with his halmark ferocity making sure to use his flight to gain the position advantage on his foe (AC 28 or 19 DMG, +2 position advantage, Expertise +5, no power attack).
The Heroes (DMJK) d20+6=21 d20+6=10 d20+6=22 d20+6=12 d20+6=25 Friday May 10th, 2002 9:21:34 AM
Two of the hook horrors manage to dodge the full fury of Nonam's spell, but the other three get caught right in the middle. The intense heat makes the exoskeletons pop, but it doesn't put any of the beasts down. Indeed, they don't even look close to going down.
Tericus blasts the front and center monster with a searing light. It staggers back and tries to shield its eyes, but it too is ready to fight on.
Gareth moves to engage the one on the left, and he gives it a good pounding. He even manages to crack the shell a bit, but rather than fall it clicks its hooks together in anticipation of dinner.
Addinein and Jus float at the edge awestruck by the things before them.
The Horror (DMJK) d20+16=24 2d10(7+7)=14 d20+16=34 d20+16=24 d20+11=17 d100=72 2d6(4+4)+9=17 d20+16=18 Friday May 10th, 2002 9:40:11 AM
The monster that Tericus blasted takes a running leap and tries to snatch his aerial foe. Tericus catches the powerful blow on his shield and barely manages to turn it aside. Then the hook horror floats in the air a second before its 400 pound bulk falls to the step below where it lands with a sickening crunch. It's not deterred very long and is soon back on its feet despite damage from the fall and the searing light.
The monster Gareth attacked returns the favor. Claw, claw, and a bite from the vicious looking hooked beak. One of the claws sneaks by Gareth's skillful defense and even beats the displacement cloak. The claw is razor sharp and Gareth feels the cut despite the stoneskins (17dmg, 10 from ss, 7 from hp).
The next nearest horror rushes toward Gareth and tries to strike with a single claw, but the warrior dodges the heavy blow.
Nonam's group spreads out a bit more to avoid the flames but none is quite so brash as to leap off the ledge like Tericus' would-have-been killer. The others jockey for position and look out to the edge to wait for the enemy.
--------------------- horror AC 19, if everyone would be so kind as to post your own current AC, it would help me out. It's hard to keep track of all the spells and tricks.
a new crude map: up [h------------h------h-] [-------h--------------] [--h------h-----------h] [---hh-------h-----h---] dn..G....h.T....N ...........AJ (all party members in the air one way or another)
[Clangden can now choose the time for his entrance. Feel free to take a little dramatic license as you make your first impression.]
Clangden d20+29=32 d20+24=36 d20+19=33 d10+22=28 d10+22=32 d10+22=32 Friday May 10th, 2002 12:03:40 PM
from the balconey to the right of the stairs, over looking the present set of stairs, comes a battle roar like none other, and leaping over the railing onto the first step with the (h on the right) Hook Horror comes an aged Dwarf, full of spunk and fire, screaming dwarven curses and singing a god awful song in dwarvish. Dressed in Full Dwarven Plate made out of Mithral, carrying a dwarven waraxe in both hands while a shield floats around him he tears into the Hook Horror with the ferocity of a lion on his prey. Swinging 3 times, (hitting ac 32, 36, 33 doing a total of 92 points of damage). Clangden then turns to the rest of the group and says: you all didnt think I would let you have all the fun, did ya? and with that said, a look of pure extasy shrouds over his face, as if Clangden thrived for combat.
Clangden ** ac 32** Friday May 10th, 2002 12:05:02 PM
sorry, forgot to post ac.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 120 pts left) d20+25=30 d20+20=31 d20+15=18 d20+14=16 d20+14=24 d20+14=27 d10+14=20 d10+14=23 d10+14=21 Friday May 10th, 2002 2:53:15 PM
The warrior grunts as he endures what registers to him as a small scratch. This time he cuts into his first opponent with all 3 attacks (Hit AC 30,31,18 for 20+23+21 DMG). "Nice to have you along - dwarf...". Somehow Gareth knows he has met this guy before - somewhere...
(Expertise +5, disregard d20 rolls 4,5,6. They were supposed to be d10s.)
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