Damsel in Distress (part 1)

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Log Info

  • Title: Damsel in Distress
  • Emitter: Benthus
  • Characters: Duncan lvl7, Kira lvl7, Kiroth lvl9, Latenat lvl6, Schneider lvl8, Yngvild lvl8
  • Place: Alexandria - Merchant District
  • Time: From Sept 21- Oct 5, 2015
  • Summary: Hired by the Guild of Adventurers, what could go wrong??
  • APL: 8
  • Encounter 1: 2 lvl8 eldritch knights (with one of them having sacrificed itself to gate in a Huge Fire Elemental CR7), CR10

(Start of the story)

Trouble is brewing at the corner of Gofred’s tannery, somewhere in merchant district. Someone is shouting obscenities, drawing a crowd towards their location. The source of commotion is from a balding, pot-bellied man who wears a rich, fur coat. His neck and fingers are adorned by jewelries. He is flanked by two beefy-looking flunkies who seem to be taking delight at the distress of someone else.

That someone happens to be a very young woman, no older than 18 years old, with a tattered cloak that she wraps around her like it could provide her protection for the angry man’s tirade. Her hands clasp the edges of her cloak as she weather the relentless verbal abuse she is getting from the man.

She’s slightly tall in standing, 5’7" in height, with dirty blonde hair that falls down to her waist. A blue ribbon ties her hair at just below her shoulder. Parts of her hair are braided to give her a dignified appearance, something she is struggling at the moment.

Her eyes are of the coolest blue framed by thin, dark brows that give her an intense look when she wants to. Her lips are ruby red and slightly pouting. The features of her face are smoothly angular and symmetrical.

She is beautiful.

"If I don’t get my money by then, your house is mine. Do you hear me!?" Screamed the fat, balding man, spraying saliva as he does so.

"I will have your money. Just stop harassing me and my brother." She responds as calmly as she could manage at the present circumstance, drawing her younger brother to her like she could protect him somehow.

The brother is about 7 years old, brown hair and the same smooth angular features that his sister possess. He attempts to look brave, scowling slightly at the one who is shouting at his sister. "Yes, leave us alone, you...over-sized toad!"

This gets the over-sized toad’s attention. He draws back his walking baton for a backhanded swing at the young child's face.

At the same moment, the sister saw what was coming and tries to cover her brother from the swinging stick. "Noo!"


With all the troubles of late Yngvild is almost always in her full plate armor, making her tall form even more imposing. She clanks towards the budding confrontation, a frown darkening her face "What is going on..." she begins in her deep contralto voice, then as the rich man raises his cane to strike the defenseless the Cleric of Angoron makes a grab for his arm. Missing that she does however get the length of wood. Her hard face twists in anger as she takes it in two hands and snaps it over her armored knee "Try that on someone who can defend themselves" she rumbles ominously as she tosses the two broken bits aside.

Kiroth hears the yelling going on and he is quick to move to see what happens. He spots the fat older man and the beautiful woman and her brother. He moves in to find out what's going on as he sees the older man raise back his cane. Kiroth rushes ahead and he puts his shield up to block the cane. He waits for it to hit and instead he hears the dull thump of flesh hitting his shield.

Duncan happens to be wandering through the same merchant district. The shouting draws his attention, as it's somehow different the normal haggling, hawking of merchendise, and other sounds you hear in the middle of a market. Then he hears the loud 'no' he guesses that something is not right and begins hurrying in that direction. "What's going on?" he bellows as he goes. The crowd finally parts and he sees for himself. "Stop this!" he points one finger in the direction of the merchant. "Stop or you'll regret it!"

A half-sil scoundrel happens to be walking the pathings and byways of the merchant quarter, no doubt on the heels of one of the many tasks that usually glean rumor from the general noise of communication of Alexandria's populace. Still, not exactly his business to interfere with well off merchant types with connections and bully boys 'less it happens to be against their interests indirectly. Grey eyes give a brief flickering glance to Duncan before focusing on the source of the commotion,"Now, I'm fairly sure assault in Alexandria - let alone on a child - would preclude involvement by the Watch and a fine of no less than 5 silvers and possible arrest." Latenat reaches up to grasp his smoke languidly as his conversational mode of interjection continues,"Which wont be that much of a stumbling block in truth one can imagine, but to be /seen/ having to deal with such, a reputation could suffer, 'tis all I'm saying." the scruffy half-sils grin is lazy and road.

Kira is drawn by the initial ripple of commotion and crude language. When fists or weapons are raised, she gasps and moves her way through the crowd. "Stop! Whatever's wrong, I'm sure we can resolve it..." She looks to the woman and child, then the other man and his associates, then to the others intervening. "What IS the matter?"

Schneider is walking along, eating ... something. Whatever it is, it seems like it's drippy meat wrapped up in some kind of edible wrapper. Or else he's eating the paper, too. But probably some sort of edible wrapper. There's some sort of street theater going on, so he pauses to watch it. As it plays out, he applauds. "Well done!" To someone beside him, he says, "The tall woman. That was well done, breaking that over her knee. Totally convincing." More applause.

The young woman had raised her arm instinctively to shield herself from the oncoming stick. But it never came. When she opened her eyes, she sees a man has placed himself between her and the pot-bellied rich man, shield drawn to receive the fleshy fist that hits his shield. She draws a quick breath, surprised at the sudden change of events. She winces slightly at the sound of broken bones, still feeling pity for the one who abused her verbally. Her eyes shift to those around her when she notices more and more people seem to have shown an interest in her predicament, and are assisting her. It had been so long before anyone had come to their aid. She felt hopeful, but denied herself that feeling as she knows it to be temporary.

The two thugs are a bit slow in reacting to the threat against their employer but eventually begin to act. Their first reaction is to attack the ones who are threatening their boss. Both of them take out saps and are prepared to use them against those they perceive are a problem.

As the thugs start forward the towering Aesir woman draws her huge earthbreaker. Taller than the child and likely heavier too she holds it easily between her two hands. A wolfish smile crosses her face, casting it into an even harder light "I am Yngvild Bloodmane..." she rumbles in a cold tone of voice as ice cold eyes move between the two "...Warrior of Angoron. I would suggest you back off, as the Iron Mountain has no time for those who threaten women and children"

Schneider seems to be enjoying the street theater, and he watches, rapt, to see what the fellows with saps think they can do to Yngvild. The Earthbreaker? This promises to be good! He finishes his meal and licks his fingers, half searching for another food vendor while keeping an eye on the altercation. "Take them down!" he calls out to her encouragingly.

Kira rushes the rest of the way to the escalating altercation and tries to de-escalate it. She slips herself between the angry man, his sappers, and everyone else, spreading her arms wide to shield and interpose facing the man and saps. "Stop this! Please! Why would you want to hurt anyone? It doesn't solve anything! What is wrong?"

Duncan moves to stand in between the thugs and the woman and the thugs - although now that he gets a closer look he realizes she's little more than a child. He pulls a flail out of his belt, and moving it lightly back and forth so that the spiked balls at the end of their chains sway.

Far be from it for Latenat to be the instigator in any conflict... his forte is information and rather more diplomatic endeavors. Still, he is no stranger to back alley skirmishes and is eyes harden as he places a hand upon the haft of the sap hanging from his own belt by a loop of leather. Sometimes actions or non verbal signals are far more eloquent than words after all.

Kiroth keeps his shield up and in between the fat old man and the young woman and boy. He pulls out his sword and points it at the thugs, "I am Sunblade Kiroth. You will leave or you will deal with me..." He looks around at the others who are here, "You will deal with us. You are outnumbered, stand down and let us figure out what's going on."

The two thugs are taken aback by the fierceness of the people who have stood against them. They thought they were only to contend against a woman, but now, it is more than that. Fear sets into their hearts and they feel like they have a better shot of escaping the ire of their employer than they are with these heroes. And so, with tails between their legs, they dropped their saps and run away.

Alone, the rich man favours his broken finger and realizes much too late that his body-guards have deserted him.

"Wait!" Said the fat rich man. "I am a very important person. Some of you look like you belong to the adventurer's guild. I am a very generous beneficiary to your organization. If you harm me, your guild master will not be happy with you."

"Please, don't kill him. He may be an evil man, but you can't execute him without due process." Says the young lady who was a few seconds ago about to have been hit hard by the man's baton. "It is not right."


From afar, Latenat would like to know if this merchant is a notable local figure! From afar, Kira wishes to use LoH to help with the man's hand, and speak. GAME: Latenat rolls Knowledge/Local+5: (1)+14+5: 20 (EPIC FAIL) GAME: Latenat rolls Knowledge/Local+5: (1)+14+5: 20 (EPIC FAIL) From afar, Latenat was using National Konwledge for two dice ';P You paged Latenat with 'Gilbert Marfungs. That is the name of the rich fat man who almost attacked the girl. A very influential figure in Alexandria, offering generous amount of money to charity, and helping in sponsoring activities that would help the city prosper. But he is also known by another name. The collector. He doesn't collect material stuff, but people's lives. He denies it, but he has connection to the skin trade and most of his 'employed' staff he 'hires' off to business associates. He has enough money and influence to make the authority look the other way when he does something dastardly. It might not be good to tell everyone about who he is as you will likely get assassins after you. The young woman you know little of as she doesn't seem to be that important. But a name comes into mind. Sarah Kopins. You seem to find the surname familiar though.'

"No one is harming anyone," Kira assures everone. She lowers her arm and reaches, slowly for the injured man's arm. "May Althea's grace be upon you, and us all." With the touch, and brief prayer, she calls some mending comfort to ease the main's pain and injury. He smile returns and looks from the man to the young woman with whom there was the disagreement. "Could either of you please explain what happened?"

Yngvild allows herself a wolfish smile as the paid thugs retreat. That done she turns her hard gaze down to the rich man. She rests it there coldly for several moments "Your yapping curs have slunk off..." the huge cleric rumbles as that cold smile broadens "...join them" she finishes as any trace of a smile fades away "I was thinking a sound beating might be in order, but if he doesn't raise his hand again..." she says to the young woman but keeps her eyes on the rich man.

Schneider continues to watch, laughing with amusement as the two bodyguards decide there's safer places to be than in front of Yngvild's earthbreaker. "Kill him!" he shouts out to her in counterpoint to the man's pleas, and in spite of Kira's healing. It's street theater, right? "Show him what it's like to be the helpless one!" Because that's what this is about, yeah? "Stand your ground, shylock!" he shouts to the fat man. Because that's going to work SO well.

Duncan squints at the merchant, then begins to tuck his flail back through his belt. He casts a quick glance back at the lady, then pans his gaze around to take in the rest of the adventurers present. "Now wait just a moment - we don't even know who these people are! Who are you, girl?" he asks in what for him might pass for a mild tone. The only reason it seems so is that when he turns toward the merchant, his tone is gruffer and much more hostile. "Who are you both?"

Kiroth uses his banesight as his eyes glow with golden light and he looks first at the young woman and boy. He then turns his sight upon the old man and he narrows his eyes as he fights to stay conscious. He turns his sword upon the old man and he says to the woman and boy, "Get back away from here now." He looks at the old man, "Who are you?"

"Listen... Gilbert? Or do you prefer Mr. Marfungs?" Latenat's hand drops away from the truncheon he was considering defending himself with, proffering a shrug as if it were no matter as he puffs away upon his cigarillo,"I don't believe there is any benefit to you to remain here for at this juncture. Shall we bid each other a good day?" a not-quite-human eyebrow is arched speculatively at the merchant, providing a level head as he looks meaningfully toward the exit his thugs used.

The fat man eyes Latenat with what looks like surprise tinged with slight admiration. He continues to ignore the questions raised by the others around him. He does look uncomfortable though, considering that he is now without bodyguards. "You better keep your eyes open at nights now." He eyes Kiroth coldly and then directs his stare at the young woman, "You. You know the alternative. Just one night. Who knows. You might like it." He grins evilly.

The girl shivers in revulsion and says, "Over my dead body."

"That can be arranged." Says the old fat toad, before arranging his coat and going away before anyone could stop him.

"Thank you for interceding in our behalf." Says the young lady, a tinge of pain on her face as she continues, "But it wasn't necessary. The one you accosted is Gilbert Marfungs, a rich and powerful aristocrat who is said to be the head of a powerful criminal syndicate. I fear that you may have brought danger to yourselves for going against him." She sighs as he draws his younger brother to herself for support. Benjamin squirms but does not push himself away from her. "My name is Sarah Kopins. This is my brother, Benjamin. We live in a house nearby. I ask that you come with us and offer you something to drink. It is the least we can offer for your kindness. And I will explain what had happened earlier."

She leads the group to an old dilapidated house. There isn't much furnishing in the house and some of the guests are forced to stand up will drinks are being offered to those who entered. "This house used to be for visitors of my family who come in from far away. Now, it is the only shelter we have left that we can call our own. We used to live in a bigger home than this."

"A mansion with many servants and guards and cooks." Blurted out Benjamin, a big grin on his face.

"Hush now, Benjamin. That was in the past. We have to content ourselves with what we have now." Sarah places a comforting hand on Benjamin's shoulder. She looks sad as she continues, "But we may lose this one too unless we can pay up for the cost of the house. You see, the title to this house went missing, and for some strange reason, Gilbert Marfungs has papers indicating that the house partially belongs to him. But he would offer it to me if I were to pay the sum that he had bought it for."


"I have a powerful urge to break his face" Yngvild growls as she watches the slimy man head off. Leather and metal creak as she unconsciously clenches her fists around the oak haft of her hammer then lets out a slow breath, her gaze shifting to Duncan questioningly.

Duncan glances around the inside of the house as Sarah and Benjamin speak. His expression tightens at the story - or at least the part he hears of it, that of a once-proud clan fallen on hard times. When the tale is finished he turns to look Sarah. "You think this Gilbert Marfungs has any true claim to this house? Or is it some kind of underhanded merchant's trick?"

Schneider goes along with the group, because, free drinks. It's at once not what he was expecting, and exactly what he was expecting, and he comments sourly, "You seem to have fallen on hard times." He looks around at the group. "But, as I look around, I see the makings of an expedition that /might/ be able to restore your title." He smirks. "As well as provide a good drubbing to that toad and his toadies."

Kira wouldn't be so rude as to turn down hospitality, though she is much more interested in learning the story behind this rather than food. "You are very welcome, but he shouldn't be accosting anyone. If he's involved in other illegal activities, he will be found out and punished appropriately." When they reach the house, he smile widens at Benjamin's innocent blurting before she states, "You both have a lovely home. I don't want you to lose it, especially if it is some kind of trick. Do you know where the title might be? Could anyone else vouch for your ownership? Is it possible that his claim is true?"

GAME: Latenat rolls Knowledge/Nobility+2: (5)+8+2: 15 You paged Latenat with 'Do you remember the plot I ran entitled 'Hunter and Prey'? This girl is the last surviving member of that clan. But I ask that you keep this knowledge for now, as the story does revolve around her and her family.'

Kiroth goes to jump after the old man to try to grab him or stop him, but the old man is out of his grasp. He grits his teeth as the man gets away and he can't leave to chase on his own. He'll have to report this to the temple. He looks towards the young lady, "It's all right it will take more then him to scare me." He follows after the others. "Are you in danger of losing this home or the one that was stolen from you?"

Yngvild waves off the concern of the woman as she accepts a drink "Takes more than a puffed up nobleman to scare me. With that she moves closer to Kirth "What did you sense?" the towering Aesir rumbles quietly to Kiroth. Well quietly for her which is not far below normal speaking volume for normal people.

"I do not know of how he has partial ownership of the house, because that would mean that the real deed is somewhere and not missing. Yes, we fear of losing this house. We'd be forced to live on the streets." She looks down on the floor, forlorn. She raises her head again as she continues, "If you wish to aid us, then please, find the title to this house. We gave it to a friend of a friend, entrusting the deed to be given to the proper authorities. When we went to the city council to authenticate the ownership of this house, they told us that they have received no document of such a thing. When we asked the person who delivered the paper on where it is, he informed us that he gave it to the city council, and that they were lying about it not being there. The person we gave it to is named Aaron Kesh. He usually can be found in the market district. He works as a deliverer of parcels."


"Mr. Marfungs is wholly capable to send... disreputable types to do his dirty work I'm afraid." Latenat mentions blandly, keeping his interjections down to a minimum until the tale is told. The half-sil looks utterly at home as he slouches against a wall, swirling the drink in his hand around idily,"Kopins, now where have I heard that name before." the scoundrel says thoughtfully, shrugging after a moment"I don't usually get involved in such things. But he threatened me in public and annoyed me into the bargain."

GAME: Schneider rolls knowledge/the planes: (18)+1: 19 <OOC> Schneider says, "He is not an efreet." GAME: Latenat rolls Knowledge/Local+6: (6)+14+6: 26

Kira nods as she listens. "We can speak to the courier and he can share who he gave it to. We can follow the trail to the documents you need..." Her smile widens more at the young woman. "Don't worry, we'll find them. Will you be safe here?"

"Aaron Kesh," Duncan murmurs, committing the name to memory. "That sounds like a good place to start. A friend of a friend, you say? We'll keep it in mind."

Schneider looks a little bored at the talk of investigation and who has what document. "I can set him on fire, if you like," he offers helpfully. Well, his tone is helpful anyhow. "People are often helpful at such times." He finishes his drink and sets the glass down wherever, glancing around in case there are snacks.

Kiroth shakes his head a little bit, "He's not a jumped up nobleman. I have never seen evil like that inside of a person before. He could be some demon or devil is disguise or he is just really really evil. Don't worry we shall find out what happened." He looks to Schneider, "He might be immune to fire."

Kira turns and looks over with a frown. "There's no reason to set anyone on fi-" she stops mid sentence and blinks at Kiroth. Now her frown is growing quickly. "Are you sure of this? That's... terrible."

Yngvild cracks her neck from side to side as she listens to the others "I am better at healing and hammering" she admits a touch ruefully "Paperwork? meh. Still for what it is worth you have my aid, especialy with what the Sunblade said"

Schneider looks very sad at Kiroth's news. "That is unfortunate. Luckily, I can use .... /more/ fire." That seems to him like the perfect solution for when fire doesn't work. Though there's a greatsword at his hip in a well-used scabbard with more than a couple bloodstains on it. "So, shall we be off, then? If he's no nobleman, then he'll have no one to complain to when we take him by storm." By firestorm, of course.

As the group bid their farewell to Sarah and Benjamin, Latenat leads the group to where they can find Aaron Kesh. As they find the man, Aaron spots the group as well. For some strange reason, he suddenly begins to make a run for it.

GAME: Yngvild casts Hold Person. Caster Level: 8 DC: 16 GAME: Schneider casts False Life. Caster Level: 7 DC: 15

Yngvild spies the person described to her running for it. Rather suspiciously. She raises her hand and booms out "IN THE NAME OF ANGORON STOP!" her voice booms and echoes through the streets as the person running headlong comes to a screeching halt.

Duncan's eyes fly open. "Wait!" he shouts. He breaks into a run after the man. "We'd like a WORD with you!!"

Kira follows Latenat's lead in weaving through the many wares and stalls of the district. When Aaron is spotted, she waves, but he only seems to want to hurry the other way. Maybe he has an urgent delivery? "AARon, please wait!" She starts to rush after him. Without heavy things like armor or weapons, she moves pretty quickly.

Aaron Kesh is a tall, lanky person with freckles and his face. He is also suffering from acne infection. He has a two big front teeth, and beady eyes, giving him a ratty appearance. A tall ratty person.

Aaron is immobilized in place, and looks scared. And he just soiled himself, so he smells as well. "Please! Please! Don't kill me! I swear, I did not know." He whimpers.

Schneider watches as his allies seem to catch the man without much effort. Well, this looks like it'll be a quick job. And it's always interesting working with actord, of course.

Kiroth breaks into a run as well and he clanks along after the others. He sighs deeply, "We are not trying to hurt you, we just want some answers."

"Why does everyone think we are going to kill them?" Kira asks rhetorically with a small amount of exasperation but also no small amount of concern. She's worried there's perfectly legitimate answer. With Aaron halted, it's even easier for her to catch up to him. "It's alright. We only wanted to talk to you about the documents for the Koplin home. Who did you give them to?"

Perhaps it is the group of people following him, or the merchant is already throwing his weight around but Latenat is about to set up a good old fashioned foot race when cries of dismay break out and a cast is flung. The half-sil winces visibly, giving a brief look at the sky as he gives the pantheon a silent plea,"Listen good-man, I'm not terribly worried about what you didn't know. But rather interested in what you /do." a forced grin appears on his face as he shrugs,"After that we'll let you on your way so you can tend to your uhh...." his nose wrinkles this time as the scent of panic reaches his nose,"Package." "I can't think why...' Rumbles the heavily armed and armoured Aesir down to Kira. She is rather slower than the less encumbered folk, but she holds him in place with the aid of her deity. She takes up position behind him, blocking off any escape as she folds her arms across her chest and glowers menacingly.

Duncan slows to a stop next to Kira, just behind her and out of her sight. At her words he looks surprised for a moment, then resigned. Guess that's how they're playing this one. He doesn't say anything, but also tries to keep his expression neutral.

GAME: Kira rolls sense motive: (13)+8: 21 GAME: Duncan rolls sense motive: (18)+7: 25 GAME: Kiroth rolls sense motive: (9)+14: 23 GAME: Yngvild rolls sense motive: (14)+4: 18 GAME: Latenat rolls sense motive: (1)+11: 12 (EPIC FAIL) GAME: Schneider rolls sense motive: (17)+0: 17


"I gave the documents to the city council. You must believe me on this!" (Sense motive DC10. -False statement)

"Alright, I was about to give it to the city council when someone approached me...(Sense motive DC12 -true statement)... and attacked me (Sense motive DC15- False statement).

I tried to keep the document from them and that nothing would make him give it away (Sense motive DC15 -False statement. Sense motive DC20 - Additional info: He gave the document for a price.)... But they were too strong and they took it away from me.

I tried to fight them to get the document back but they were too many (Sense motive DC15 - False statement. Sense motive DC20 - You manage to catch him saying 'him' before he said 'them' indicating there was only one person who approached him).

I really care about Sarah and would do anything to help her." (Sense motive DC15: Partially true, but his interest in her is more of the carnal type. Sense motive DC20: Apparently, he must have struck a deal with whomever he gave the document. Part of the deal would be in having his way with Sarah when everything has fallen according to their plans)


Schneider frowns at the fellow, and says, "This man's a liar, and a bad one. I say we set him on fire and have done with it." Of course this is Schneider's /normal/ response in any event, and there are already motes of fire flickering in the breeze that draws back his hair melodramatically.

Duncan squints as he tries to follow the story along. But as the man goes on Duncan's expression darkens until he's glowering. "You honorless worm," he growls. "Who did you give the papers to? Was it a fat man, almost like..." he describes Gilbert briefly (and rudely). As he speaks he pulls out his flail again, and this time the heads start to glow, one with an angry red and the other with a sickly green.

Yngvild's knuckles crack and metal creaks as the Aesir clenches her rather large fists "I suggest trying again. And -not- lying this time" she rumbles, her icy eyes looking down to the nervous man "Or you might make me angry. You wouldn't like it when I get angry"

Kira wants to believe him, she really does... but she is optimistic and hopeful, not inattentive. She catches some inconsistencies and body language. Well, eye movement, since he can't move much else. "Please, who did you ACTUALLY give it to... and no one is setting anyone on fire!" That's for Schneider, with a frown. She turns her frown at the rest. "Or otherwise harm him."

<OOC> Schneider says, "Can I roll intimidate to maybe get him more cooperative?" Kiroth looks to his companions and then to the man, "Aaron. We all know that you are lying to us. Why don't you tell us the truth? We know that you care about Sarah and I'm sure she'll be grateful to know that you played apart in helping her get her home back for her and her brother." He moves closer to her, "Although if you try to take advantage of her I'll know and I will be disappointed." Watching the flurry of questions beset the panicked human Latenat takes the back seat, all the better to watch you with my dear... and getting the sense of his story not quite adding up,"Kid wants to help, let him help. Not as if he is putting up much of a resistance."


"Please don't kill me. I don't know the man. I have never seen him in my lift. He does look like Gilbert Marfungs, but no, he is not. He is shorter, haunched back with a rat-face (not literally, no). All I know is that when she is 'ready', I am to go to this place to get my prize." Aaron gives out the address to where he is suppose to meet with the fallen-from-grace Sarah.

Yngvild's nostrils wrinkle in disgust, both at the smell and the man himself. The towering Aesir somewhat reluctantly leans closer her ice cold eyes resting on him "If you are in any way lying to us again I will rip your arms off and beat you death with them. Then I will get nasty" she rumbles ominously.

Duncan peers at Aaron, then finally shrugs. "It's the best lead we have," he remarks. The only lead they have, but the Khazad leaves that part out. "Shall we pay a visit to this shop?"

Kira frowns at Yngvild. "He gave us the information we need. He'll face justice for his crime. You don't need to threaten him. We need to find the document." That is their overall concern and goal. She nods to Duncan. "We should hurry."

Schneider isn't sure what to make of all this, exactly, though it'd help, in his opinion, if there were more fire involved. "Is this before or after I set him on fire?" he asks Yngvild conversationally. Of course near him the scent of candles is muted. The air around him swirls lightly and causes his hair to billow back dramatically.

Kiroth crosses his arms as he looks at Aaron and then he looks at the others, "Well shall we go to this location then." He looks at the man again, "And don't tip off the others that we will be there."

Yngvild looks down at Kira, her nostrils flaring in a snort "You have much to learn about dealing with cowardly weak scum lass" is all she says before hoisting her hammer back over her shoulder and deliberately turning her back on the man as a show of contempt "And lets not set things on fire just yet" she says to Schneider with a faint smile softening her face.

"Intimidation would be of use if he was putting up a resistance to answering our questions." Latenat voices philosophically as he raises his hands in a placatory gesture, the half-sil having taken a back seat to the 'negotiations' with the overly loquacious runner,"As you can see, this is not the problem. But." the scoundrel turns his attention to Aaron,"It is good that you haven't collected payment yet, for I hardly think it would be in coin that you would appreciate."

A shrug is proffered and Latenat retreats further out of range of the fecal miasma,"Needless to say, he has done the lass an exceedingly poor turn. Our silence upon the matter shall be the insurance we need, now let us withdraw before the watch sees us accosting this individual."

Schneider looks disappointed as Yngvild puts his fire out. "I'll be ready, should the need arise," he tells her. As far as accosting the fellow, he says, "If the watch stops us, it will be to hand out medals for capturing this fellow. He's stolen the girl's home and sold it off for his own profit. There's definitely a crime in there. They'll probably string him up and leave him there for a month." He asides to the fellow, "Going all manky and runny after the first week, and all the women will cry."

Duncan peers at Latenat, trying to piece together what he said. At last he huffs. "Then we are in agreement?" he says. "Good," he adds without waiting for anyone to actually agree. " Lets get this over with, then." He turns and looks about. "Ah, which way is it...?"

<OOC> Benthus says, "Roll knowledge local or geography." <OOC> Benthus says, "Or diplomacy if you want to ask for direction from people in the area." GAME: Kiroth rolls diplomacy: (19)+18: 37 GAME: Schneider rolls intimidate: (13)+8: 21

Schneider turns on the fellow who's already confessed, and demands, "All right, where is this place?"

Kiroth is ushered to the location by a very enthusiastic girl. Schneider manages to intimidate another person to pointing him in the right direction. All in all, both methods work.

Kiroth thanks the girl for her help and warns her to get out of the area. He looks to the others, "This is the place were the meeting takes place." He looks around, "Should we try to take cover and see who shows up?"

GAME: Latenat rolls knowledge/local: (11)+14: 25 GAME: Latenat rolls knowledge/local: (12)+14: 26 You paged Latenat with 'It's a normal shop. Likely a front for something more sinister. You know that the shop is well liked by the locals and the owner is good-natured.'

GAME: Kira rolls diplomacy: (1)+16: 17 (EPIC FAIL)

Duncan scratches at his beard. "Seems to me we 're not necessarily interested in the who -- more the what. If they have papers and such, where would they keep them?"

The scented candle shop appears to be a normal looking shop. Well, as normal as any other shop within the vicinity. There are people going in and out of the shop. People of varying degrees, either light and bubbly to some shady individuals. Still, an average type of people that you would expect who would enter a scented candle shop.


Schneider says to the others, "We can probably pose as customers. They can't kick us out for shopping. Or if they do, we'll just nab them. Then just wait for the contact?"

Kira asked for the wrong shop, and has to catch up with the others. "Yes," she nods to Schneider, smiling at his idea. We can shop and wait." She inhales. "The candles smell wonderful, don't they?" Going in and looking at them won't be difficult.

Kiroth hmms as he looks over the candles shop. "So do we know what the person looks like that Aaron was going to meet?"

Duncan gives Kiroth a blank look.

"He didn't say..." Kira purses her lips at that, then steps inside to look around.

Schneider goes inside as well, ducking his head as he enters. He looks around thoughtfully at all the .... stuff. Well, this place could use a good tornado. He doesn't voice that opinion just yet. But it will probably come out.

Kiroth follows along after the others and he hmms as he starts to look around the candle store.

Yngvild 's nose wrinkles at the mixed scents of the shop. Still rather more pleasant than the courier. She steps in as quietly as she may. Which is actually fairly noisy. Her eyes scan the shop carefully but the large woman keeps quiet for the moment.

Duncan starts to go in with the rest of the party, then stops outside of the door and in a rare bit of subterfuge decides to wait a bit so that it doesn't turn into a line of adventurers filing in. Instead Duncan turns to survey the street and the surrounding shops. Only after he's counted to thirty in his head does he also enter.

As the group make their way inside (except for Duncan who is staying at the out at the front entrance and Latenat who has gone somewhere to the back of the shop) the scented candles shop, they find a middle-aged woman arranging stuff inside. At first, when she heard the bell ring, she was enthusiastic. Probably happy at the thought she has customers. But when she sees who it is that has entered her shop, her expression change slightly to caution. She tries to cover it up with a smile, but the caution in her eyes is still there.

<OOC> Benthus says, "Perception checks when you are finished posing a cursory look around the shop." GAME: Kiroth rolls perception: (3)+2: 5

Kira turns her smile to the woman. "Hello. Your shop smells wonderful. Do you have any favorite scents or recommendations?"

GAME: Kira rolls perception: (17)+13: 30 GAME: Yngvild rolls perception: (11)+9: 20

As the larger part of the small party enters the shop, Latenat smiles plainly and stays outside with Duncan, quickly disappearing down a tight passage between the shop and the next building over after a moments wait.

GAME: Schneider rolls perception: (5)+6: 11

Kiroth moves up towards the shop keeper as well and he smiles, "Yes your shop is wonderful." He says as he picks up a candle and he sniffs it.

Schneider just kind of wanders aimlessly around the shop. The ... the fires here are captive and yearn to be free. Soon, soon.

The woman nods nervously and ushers Kira to a stall which is marked 'recommended'. She starts describing her products to her, trying to sell her merchandise without being too obvious. The process alleviates some of her cautiousness and she begins to relax a little.


You paged (Kira, Yngvild) with 'Floor appears hallow below a carpeted segment where you passed through.'

Yngvild pauses a moment, her large form on one of the carpeted sections of the store. Her shaggy brows furrow and she lifts a booted foot and brings it down fairly hard. As it makes contact a hollow wooden sound echoes around the room, and she turns her ice blue eyes to the storekeeper "What do you keep down here?" she rumbles softly. Well for her, it is about normal conversation volume for most.

"Oh my. I do like some of these..." Kira takes the time to wave the aromas from individual candles to her nose. After Yngvild asks the question of the moment, Kira leaves the shopkeep alone to answer her other customer's question.

The shopkeeper is once again nervous. More so now than before. She looks left and right before looking at Yngvild. "Ahmmm... S-storage room for more candles." She says quickly, fidgeting slightly under Yngvild's gaze.

GAME: Kiroth rolls sense motive: (9)+14: 23 You paged Kiroth with 'She is lying. She doesn't even know what is under the floor.'

Schneider idly browses while keeping an eye towards the door. If our mark comes in, Schneider will close the door behind him and block the way out.

From afar, Kira tends to doubt it, but... is she evil? You paged Kira with 'She does not register as evil.'

GAME: Kira rolls sense motive: (18)+8: 26 You paged Kira with 'She was lying. She doesn't even know what is under the floor.'

Yngvild keeps that cold gaze on the shopkeeper, the usually fairly affable cleric looking rather annoyed today "What is it with people lying to me today?" she rumbles as she looks around to the rest of the party then back to the storekeeper. Her gaze rests on the woman in silence for a few moments "We are trying to stop an innocent young woman from getting repeatedly raped by cowardly, weak, thugs. Open this or I will" she adds with a hand reaching back to rest on the thick oaken haft of her earthbreaker.

"Please," Kira asks the woman after looking at her intently a moment. "If someone is bullying you to help them, we can help, but you must be honest with us."

The shopkeeper covers her mouth in shock and shakes her head, her eyes becoming teary, "By the gods, I did not know! Please, don't have the city guards arrest me. I have a young daughter to support. I owed money from a man known only as Mattias. In exchange for cooperation, he would not be asking me for what I owed him. I thought it was a good deal so I took it. I never realized what I signed into until I saw those poor young women lead into the passageway. They looked terrified. Please believe me. I did not want to be part of this, but I had no choice."

GAME: Kiroth rolls sense motive: (2)+14: 16 You paged Kiroth with 'She appears to be telling the truth.'

Kiroth sighs softly, "Please don't lie to us. You don't really know what's under there do you?" He asks, "We are trying to stop these men." He listens to her and nods, "We are here to help you."

The door swings open...

But it's only Duncan. The Khazad puts on a completely obvious show of looking around at the candles before he realizes the shopkeeper is being 'questioned'. So he drops the charade and just watches.

Kira blinks. "A passageway? Is that is what's under the rug? There were others?!" Ok, now she's more than willing to move the rug to see what's underneath.

"If you were not strong enough there are those who are" Yngvild rumbles, softening just a little but still hard. As the shopkeeper mentions terrified young women anger sparks in her eyes, reflected in her voice "Especially when you saw terrified young girls. Are they still down there?" the thunders in a dangerous voice.


The shopkeeper shakes her head slowly and sadly, "I don't think you can. Those who have... control of me... They are far more powerful than you think they are." She shifts her attention to Yngvild, "There have been many, and it happens a couple of times a week. A young, pretty woman would be escorted here by some thugs." She breaks down into tears and says, "Please, I don't want my family to get hurt. I ask that you say nothing to anyone about this. Please."

Removing the carpet reveals a large, and obviously locked, trapped door.

Schneider glances casually at the trapped trapdoor, and winces. He takes a step so he's in the doorway, and waits to catch Latenat's glance, nodding for him to join us in the shop, then returning inside.

"We will stop them, they will be brought to justice, and you and your family will be protected," Kira assures the woman. She looks to the locked door, then back to the woman. "Do you have a key? Do you usually open this?"

The woman shakes her head, "The escorts to the young woman are the ones who have the keys to the lock."

Kiroth looks to the shopkeeper, "Is it just one man that brings them in or all sorts of men. Did this man ever bring them in?" He asks as he describes Aaron to the shopkeeper.

A broad smile crosses Yngvild's face, doing a little to soften her roughly-hewn features "Reckon I have a key right here" she rumbles as she pulls her huge hammer over her shoulder, but peering closer at the door-hatch she pauses, enthusiasm dimming a little "Also there was one describe as looking like a rat" she adds, idly turning the hammer over in her hands.

Kira listens to the answer to her own, and the others' questions, now. They're all good questions, and the shopkeep seems to honestly want to help. She was just caught in a bad situation.

The shopkeeper shakes her head again, "I can't recognize the faces of the people who escort the woman. They always seem to be different from the other. One would think that I would recognize at least one of them as having come around a second time. But no. I do not recognize one of the escorts coming to the shop again." To Yngvild, she shakes her head, not recalling one looking like a rat. "They all looked... average. I can't even recall their faces at all." She seems to have come to this realization just now, and is startled by that thought. "I swear! I am telling the truth. I don't recall their faces at all!"

Seemingly oddly attuned to the alleyways of Alexandria, Latenat years a sound and moves toward the passway only to see Schneider looking down the tight thoroughfare. When the larger giantborne moves away without a word the scoundrel shrugs and wriggles back out into the street and in through the storefront entrance. It is clear he has been summoned!

"Hmmmmm?" the dawn's child inquires eloquently upon witnessing the odd situation with a large portion of the folk within looking at a trapdoor,"

"I believe you. They could have used magic to obscure your memory?" Kira isn't sure, but it's certainly in the realm of magic. "If there are others down there, we must help them!" That's for the others. She then looks to Yngvild. "Can you open it?"

A cursory look at the look reveals that is is a very, very well crafted lock. It would appear that someone is more likely to break down the trapdoor first before breaking the lock.

"I can destroy it" Yngvild rumbles in reply as she considers the other folks around her "Not quite the same thing," She smiles faintly as she adds this bit "Anyone good with locks?"

Glancing left and right -just to be sure- Latenat reaches into his vest, having to undo a few buttons to reveal a leather satchel which when withdrawn proves to be a not quite so legal set of thieves tools,"Not my forte to be honest, but I can try." the half-sil says rhetorically as he sets to work apon the trapped entrance

Schneider hrmphs about good with locks. "I can burn doors down," he replies with a smirk. "I can also command the spirits to open a door if it's not locked."

GAME: Latenat rolls Disable Device+4: (14)+10+4: 28

You paged Latenat with 'You have managed to disarm a poison needle trap that is hidden inside the intricate lock. But the lock is still... locked.'

GAME: Latenat rolls Disable Device+4: (6)+10+4: 20 Kiroth moves to let the others do their work and he keep an eye on the door looking for the rat faced man they are supposed to meet." You paged Latenat with 'You broke your tool trying to open the lock.' You paged Latenat with 'Well... Almost broke your tool. You fail to open it on your first attempt.'

Setting to work without much ado Latenat takes care in disarming the ironically trapped trapdoor,"The trap is disarmed, but I'm having a bit of trouble with the lock." the scoundrel admits, taking the time to wipe his forehead with the back of one sleeve in relief, in the past he hasn't had so much luck with the break and enter oriented aspect of his career,"Feel free to have at it, mind."

"Thank you for that," Kira is grateful. She's also sure that they'll find a way in. Like Yngvild having at it.

The shopkeeper waves her arms, "Please don't break the trap door, or they would know someone has tampered with it."


<OOC> Yngvild says, "Can Lat have another go? I have an idea >.>" <OOC> Benthus will let Latenat have another go before altering the story a little.

"Aye if I smash it in it will be a bit obvious" Yngvild rumbles. She slings her hammer over her shoulder again and then reaches down to grasp Latenat's shoulder "Iron Mountain, we are working in your service, grant this man some of your fortune" she rumbles in a soft prayer.

<OOC> Yngvild says, "Luck domain, give him a second roll :P" <OOC> Benthus nods, "Make the second attempt now, Latenat." GAME: Latenat rolls Disable Device+4: (15)+10+4: 29 <OOC> Kira woos! "That's definitely much better!" <OOC> Benthus says, "But not enough."

You paged Kiroth with 'As you are observing those outside the shop, you spot two shadowy figures with non-descript faces escorting somebody covered in a thick and long black cloak.'

Kiroth looks towards the others, "Hey...there are two thugs coming with a woman. We can hide or look inconspicuous as possible."

Kira blinks. "Quick, we need to cover the door!" she whispers before moving back to look at the recommended table again.

Yngvild looks down over herself at mention of the word inconspicuous, then over to Schneider and smiles faintly "I will go with hide" she rumbles and looks for a place to do so. At least until the thugs are inside.

Schneider goes back to 'browsing' the contents of the shop near the door.

No sooner has the trap door been covered again when the door opens. One of the escorts steps inside and looks around, seeing the other people inside. He moves towards the Shop owner and says. "Shop is closed. Tell your customers to go out. Now."

The other thug is looking at the PC's critically, a frown on his average-and-forgetable face. The other person covered in thick long black cloak stands quietly and still.


<OOC> Yngvild says, "How far in are they? Can one of us block the front way out" <OOC> Kiroth says, "Yes I'd like to block the door way" <OOC> Benthus says, "Only one of the thugs is inside the shop. The cloaked figure and the other non-discrept thug are just outside the door. The thug outside appears suspicious of your group." <OOC> Schneider was trying to place himself so he could block the door. <OOC> Yngvild says, "Rgr" <OOC> Kiroth says, "Will move out of the shop then and try to get behind the other thug."

Flipping the 'evidence' out of sight in a flash Latenat turns to browsing without pause... luckily his secret ability is looking like he belongs in any urban environment. In response to the 'request' however he looks up and raises an eyebrow, a passive inquiry like one confused.

Kira looks up from the candlers at the sudden demand. "Oh, I'm sorry," she apologizes to the shopkeeper, then looks to the man. "I didn't realize it was closing. Is everything alright?"

"Closed!" Duncan repeats incredulously. He looks between the thug and the shopkeep, as if to see how she's going to stand for this.

Schneider has decided, like the flicker of flame, that right now is when he goes boom. But like a fire, there's a little trace of smoke first. In Schneider's case, it's an entreaty to certain spirits to guide his hand unerringly to his target.

Kiroth shrugs a little bit as he puts down the candle he was looking at and he heads towards the door. He leaves and heads outside and move behind the other cloaked figure.

The other thug finally speaks, "Jeremy, we should leave." He cocks his head to his side, urging his companion to get out of the shop quickly. Apparently, it was a coded gesture because the other thug suddenly begins moving his fingers, "Die!" He points at several people including the shop owner... (Spellcraft DC14: Lightning bolt)

The thug outside raises his hand at Kiroth and does the same thing. (Spellcraft DC14: Lightning bolt)


<OOC> Benthus says, "Okay, before the show begins. Roll init and see if you beat them to the punch." GAME: Schneider rolls spellcraft: (13)+7: 20 GAME: Schneider rolls initiative: Roll: 16 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 19 GAME: Yngvild rolls initiative: Roll: 8 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 10 GAME: Kira rolls initiative: Roll: 10 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 14 GAME: You roll initiative for Jeremy: Roll: 12 + Bonus: +7 = Total: 19 GAME: You roll initiative for Thug 1: Roll: 3 + Bonus: +7 = Total: 10 GAME: Latenat rolls initiative: Roll: 17 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 21 GAME: Latenat's initiative total changed to 23. GAME: Kiroth rolls initiative: Roll: 13 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 14 GAME: Duncan rolls initiative: Roll: 15 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 18


===================== Current Initiative Order - Round 1 =====================
---Init--Name------------AOO-Notes--------------------------------------------
 >> 23   Latenat          1   <<
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    19   Jeremy              
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    19   Schneider        1  Flat-footed (0 rnds remaining)               
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    18   Duncan           1  Flat-footed (0 rnds remaining)               
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    14   Kiroth           1  Flat-footed (0 rnds remaining)               
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    14   Kira             1  Flat-footed (0 rnds remaining)               
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    10   Thug 1              
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    10   Yngvild          1  Flat-footed (0 rnds remaining)               
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
==============================================================================


GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 23.
     It is now Latenat's turn! Jeremy is next!


<OOC> Latenat will whip out his sap and strike the prospective caster. <OOC> Latenat says, "human, yes?" <OOC> Benthus says, "He looks human, yes." GAME: Latenat rolls 1d20+8: (4)+8: 12 <OOC> Benthus says, "That is a miss. Please pose it." GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 19.
     It is now Jeremy's turn! Schneider is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "1Schneider 2Yngvild 3Latenat 4Kira 5Duncan. In that order." GAME: Benthus rolls 1d5: (1): 1 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d5: (4): 4 <OOC> Benthus says, "Schneider and Kira, along with the shop keeper gets struck by lightning..." GAME: Schneider rolls reflex: (9)+5: 14 <OOC> Benthus says, "DC17." <OOC> Kira says, "Eek! No way to protect the shopkeeper?" <OOC> Benthus says, "Sad as it may be, yes. She will die this round." <OOC> Latenat was hoping on an AoO <OOC> Yngvild is she doesn't die outright Yng can heal <OOC> Benthus says, "Oh. True. Roll it." <OOC> Benthus says, "AoO first. And if the damage is not enough to break concentration, then the lightning bolt happens." GAME: Latenat rolls 1d20+8: (19)+8: 27 <OOC> Benthus says, "Well, you manages a hit. Damage please." GAME: Latenat rolls 1d6+2: (6)+2: 8 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+9: (7)+9: 16 <OOC> Benthus says, "You managed to break his concentration and the spell fizzles."

Jeremy has his hands extended and an electrical surge is beginning to focus on the palm on his hands. He has his hands pointed at the shop keeper as well as Schneider and Kira. Latenat's earlier attempts at sapping the fellow might have failed, but the second time around did. It was enough to break the person's concentration and caise the spell to fizzle. The person shouts expletives at Latenat.

Ahh, the good old fire fight in a candle shop. Latenat is on a hair trigger and when the code word is spoken and the thugs start their casting the rogue whips out a sap and leaps forward! His first strike goes awry, being a touch hasty, but when the spellcasting begins he takes the opportunity and nips that in the bud, striking the thug's forearm with a swift but solid blow .

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 19.
     It is now Schneider's turn! Duncan is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Schneider ended. <OOC> Schneider says, "OK, I'll counterspell lightning bolt." GAME: Schneider casts Lightning Bolt. Caster Level: 7 DC: 16

Schneider reconsiders his actions in light of seeing both of these fellows going through the motions he recognizes as calling lighting. Too slow to avoid the first one, he lucks out as the fellow is interrupted. Himself, he shifts into a defensive stance facing the other and calls out, "Spirits of Lightning, -I- demand your service! You are forbidden to serve him!" There is a faint crackle or spark, perhaps, and Schneider smiles as he draws his greatsword, flames licking up and down the blade, incidentally lighting a few of the candles.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 18.
     It is now Duncan's turn! Kiroth is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Duncan ended. GAME: Duncan rolls acrobatics: (7)+7: 14 <OOC> Benthus says, "That is enough, it is a fairly large window, so you can do you jump-through-the-window 'move' and continue with your standard action." <OOC> Duncan sweet! If it's a move action can I also pull out my flail and take a swing at the other Thug GAME: Duncan rolls 1d20+10: (20)+10: 30 GAME: Duncan rolls 1d20+10: (15)+10: 25 GAME: Duncan rolls 2d8+18+1d6+1d6: (3)+18+(5)+(3): 29 <OOC> Duncan says, "5 is fire damage and 3 is acid."

Duncan puts a hand on the flail tucked through his belt, eyes shooting daggers on the first Thug, the one inside...but then the Khazad's eyes shift slyly towards the window. He leaps at it, and then through, landing in a shower of glass next to the Thug outside. "Closed? CLOSED?!" Without missing a beat he yanks his flail out and swings a quick blow, sending both flail heads, one tinged red and the other green, smacking into the enemy. "Close THIS!"


GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 14.
     It is now Kiroth's turn! Kira is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Kiroth ended. <OOC> Benthus says, "Kiroth, action please." <OOC> Kiroth says, "I'm going after the thug that's outside." <OOC> Benthus nods. Duncan is already on him. The cloaked figure doesn't seem to be moving anywhere. <OOC> Kiroth says, "That's fine I'll flank then." <OOC> Kiroth says, "With Vital strike and power attack." GAME: Kiroth rolls 1d20+14+1+2+2-3: (4)+14+1+2+2-3: 20 GAME: Kiroth rolls 2d8+2+4+5: (10)+2+4+5: 21

Kiroth moves toward to flank with Duncan. "Get out of here!" He shouts at the girl as he slashes at the thug, "Give up now before we have to hurt you more." He tells the thug.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 14.
     It is now Kira's turn! Thug 1 is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Kira ended. <OOC> Kira would like to grab Mr. Fizzled Lightning Bolt that's in front of her. GAME: Kira rolls cmb+7: (10)+11+7: 28 <OOC> Benthus says, "You manage to grapple him." <OOC> Kira says, "Yay! Maintain as a move action and pin." GAME: Kira rolls cmb+7: (15)+11+7: 33

Before the magus bruised by Latenat can recover his arm position, Kira steps in to grab it. She twists, forcing him around, then immediately steps in to pivot his weight slightly off his feet using her hip as a fulcrum under his. She reaches up with her other hand to grabs his other forearm, pull it behind her, and holds it there to lock him in the awkward position. "You will NOT be harming anyone with your magic."

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 10.
     It is now Thug 1's turn! Yngvild is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Okay, thug moves 30 feet away from Kiroth and Duncan. Cloaked figure follows him. Roll AoO, Kiroth and Duncan." GAME: Duncan rolls 1d20+10: (6)+10: 16 GAME: Kiroth rolls 1d20+14+1+2-3: (5)+14+1+2+-3: 19 <OOC> Benthus says, "Duncan and Kiroth misses." <OOC> Benthus says, "Thug 1 casts a spell (spellcraft DC13: Fireball) on Duncan and Kiroth." <OOC> Benthus says, "Reflex DC17 please, Kiroth and Duncan." GAME: Duncan rolls reflex: (20)+4: 24 (CRITICAL SUCCESS) GAME: Benthus rolls 7d6: (28): 28 GAME: Kiroth rolls reflex: (1)+11: 12 (EPIC FAIL) <OOC> Kira winces. GAME: You damaged Duncan for 14 points. 47 remaining. GAME: You damaged Kiroth for 28 points. 68 remaining.

Thug 1 breaks away from being flanked by both Duncan and Kiroth, followed closely by the cloaked figure. He turns around and draws a pellet from his pouch. Encanting some strange words, he hurls the pellet at Duncan and Kiroth.

The pellet burst into a fireball, spreading outwards, fire rolling like waves, concussing those near enough and burning those that are inside its range.

Duncan manages to duck and roll, taking lesser damage. But Kiroth is hit full force.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 10.
     It is now Yngvild's turn! Latenat is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Yngvild ended. <OOC> Benthus says, "Yngvild, action please." <OOC> Yngvild says, "Can I charge one of the ones outside?" <OOC> Benthus says, "Charging requires that you move in a straight line. Unfortunately, the candle stalls provide an obstacle to that maneuver." <OOC> Yngvild says, "Searing Light then" GAME: Yngvild casts Searing Light. Caster Level: 8 DC: 17 GAME: Yngvild rolls 1d20+8: (5)+8: 13 GAME: Yngvild rolls 3d8: (17): 17

Yngvild moves forward through the shop as it looks like Kira has the inside caster well in hand. She lifts a hand up to the heavens and bellows "ANGORON WITNESS." Her powerful voice echoes around the streets as she holds out one hand. A bright light gathers in her palm which she extends to the caster outside and a searing beam emerges, burning into him and sending him reeling backwards, gravely wounded.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 23.
     It is now Latenat's turn! Jeremy is next!

(Latenat wasn't around during this time)

<OOC> Benthus saGAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 19.
     It is now Jeremy's turn! Schneider is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Jeremy is grappled but does something. Spellcraft DC20 please." GAME: Yngvild rolls 1d20+2: (2)+2: 4 GAME: Schneider rolls spellcraft: (7)+7: 14

Jeremy laughs at Kira and then grins, "Fools! You all will die this day!" And with that, he rolls his eyes to the back of his head and starts to convulse. All of a sudden, his body becomes hot. Extremely hot! The flesh begins to blister and char. Certain parts of his body erupt with fire, until his entire body is covered in fire. The fire spreads, engulfing the entire body and more. It spreads until it has covered an area of fifteen feet radius.

Jeremy is no more, burned to ashes. What has replaced him is a huge humanoid figure covered in fire. And it is not happy at being brought out of its home plane.

GAME: Kira rolls reflex: (19)+13: 32

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 19.
     It is now Schneider's turn! Kiroth is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Schneider ended. <OOC> Benthus says, "Schneider, knowledge/the planes please." GAME: Schneider rolls knowledge/the_planes+3: (16)+1+3: 20 <OOC> Schneider says, "The game code doesn't understand it's a class skill for me." You paged Schneider with 'It's a huge fire elemental. DR 5/-. Weak/vulnerable to cold.' <OOC> Benthus says, "Action please. And yes, the buidling is now on fire." GAME: Jeremy removed from initiative list. GAME: You roll initiative for Huge Fire Ele: Roll: 18 + Bonus: +11 = Total: 29 GAME: Huge Fire Ele's initiative total changed to 19

GAME: Schneider casts Lightning Bolt. Caster Level: 7 DC: 16 GAME: Schneider rolls 7d6: (23): 23 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+14: (15)+14: 29

Schneider ooohs as the fellow turns into a fire elemental. This should be good! "You think to impress me? Hah, you're years too late for that. Take this!" he shouts, and intones, "Zarzardo, bakemono, lightning, heed my call! Strike!" An arc of lighting springs from his fingertips and crakles through the shop, striking the elemental a glancing hit.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 14.
     It is now Kiroth's turn! Kira is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Kiroth ended. <OOC> Benthus says, "Kiroth, there is still thug 1 left. He might take Jeremy's hint and follow suit." <OOC> Kiroth says, "I'll full attack it with power attack." <OOC> Kiroth says, "Sorry then I'll charge with vital strike and power attack" GAME: Kiroth rolls 1d20+14+1+2+2-4: (7)+14+1+2+2+-4: 22 <OOC> Benthus says, "Hit and kill. Pose it."

Kiroth swings and misses as the thug moves away. He charges after the thug not letting him get away and he slashes hard. He brings the thug down before he too can change into a fire elemental.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 14.
     It is now Kira's turn! Thug 1 is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Kira ended. GAME: Kiroth rolls 2d8+5+4+2: (4)+5+4+2: 15 <OOC> Benthus says, "Kira, action please. You are fifteen feet away from the fire elemental. The building is on fire." <OOC> Kira will try to grab the shopkeep to get her out since her player has almost no idea what's going on, now.

<OOC> Benthus nods, "Pose away. And if you can add avoiding getting burned during the fire elemental transformation, that would be great." <OOC> Kira says, "If he teleported 15 feet away, I think I'm fine." <OOC> Benthus says, "Well... It is a huge fire creature. It just takes a lot more space than its predecessor." <OOC> Benthus says, "Hmmm... It also has a reach of 15 feet. Meaning it can hit everyone inside the shop." <OOC> Benthus says, "Still going to get the shop owner out of the shop, Kira?"

To say Kira is a little surprised when the man she grabbed bursts into flames, steps away, and grows... would be an understatement. He's on fire, then the entire room seems to be on fire, and lightning is zapping around. Kira isn't immune to fire, nor does she have any means handy to deal with flaming, teleporting, magical self-incinerating people. She's also pretty sure that the shopkeep isn't any of those things, either. Kira jumps over the counter to reach for her. "I'm sorry about your shop, but I need to get you out, now!" She may not wait for an answer before trying to get the woman out by the easiest or least dangerous option available.

Huge Fire elemental spots Kira moving within his area of attack and slams his two fiery fist on where she is located...

GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (15)+15: 30 <OOC> Benthus says, "Roll Reflex again, Kira. DC18." GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (8)+4: 12 GAME: Kira rolls reflex: (16)+13: 29 GAME: You damaged Kira for 12 points. 49 remaining. <OOC> Benthus says, "But not burned. You seem to be made up of sterner stuff."

The Fire elemental smashes the wooden floor around Kira's vicinity, causing the fiery splinters and molten debris to fly around her. Some of which do hit her.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 10.
     It is now Yngvild's turn! Huge Fire Ele is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Yngvild ended. <OOC> Yngvild says, "Will create water be enough to put out the shop fire?" <OOC> Benthus says, "Yes, but not while the fire elemental is still around." <OOC> Yngvild says, "Okay, cast Protection from Energy(Fire) on myself a suppose and move to cover Kira and shopkeepers retreat" <OOC> Benthus says, "Just a warning, everyone inside the shop is in the HFE attack reach." <OOC> Benthus says, "If you cast, Yngvild..." <OOC> Yngvild says, "No other option" <OOC> Yngvild says, "Casting defensively" <OOC> Benthus says, "DC 15 + double the level of the spell you're casting" GAME: Yngvild rolls 1d20+4+4: (8)+4+4: 16 <OOC> Yngvild says, "Luck domain" GAME: Yngvild rolls 1d20+4+4: (10)+4+4: 18 <OOC> Benthus says, "Magic fizzles. Pose it."

Well that was entirely unexpected. Yngvild blinks as the man turns into a huge fire elemental. She doesn't take long to react at least stepping foward a little she raiseses her hammer but more in a defensive manner than usual "AGORON WITNESS" she begins, but something goes wrong and the usual glow in her eyes burns out quickly, leaving her looking rather non-plussed.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 19.
     It is now Huge Fire Ele's turn! Schneider is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "1 Kira 2 Schneider 3 Yngvild 4 shop-owner" GAME: Benthus rolls 1d4: (2): 2 <OOC> Benthus says, "Schneider, you have been targetted by HFE." GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (19)+15: 34 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (5)+15: 20 <OOC> Schneider says, "Ow. Fire resistance 10, though." GAME: Benthus rolls 4d6+8: (19)+8: 27 GAME: You damaged Schneider for 17 points. 53 remaining. GAME: Yngvild casts Protection From Energy. Caster Level: 8 DC: 17 <OOC> Benthus says, "Roll reflex to prevent getting burned, Schneider." <OOC> Benthus says, "DC18." GAME: Schneider rolls reflex: (10)+5: 15 GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6: (7): 7 <OOC> Benthus says, "You resist the burn."

The huge fire elemental looms over all the people inside the shop. It turns its fiery eyes from one person to another until it falls on Schneider. It lashes out at the giantborn, one fiery fist at a time, hitting him twice. The blows were felt, but the fires didn't do anything on Schneider.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 19.
     It is now Schneider's turn! Kiroth is next!

<OOC> Schneider says, "If I'm in threat range, I'll just hack it with my sword, plus power attack and arcane strike." <OOC> Benthus says, "Roll it Schneider." GAME: Schneider rolls 1d20+7: (13)+7: 20

Schneider bathes in the fire. The pummeling he's not happy with, but he'll try to give some back. Sadly, he's not as good with the sword as he could be, and his swings are wide of the mark, but that doesn't prevent him from cackling with excitement.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 14.
     It is now Kiroth's turn! Kira is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Kiroth, you are safe outside the burning building. Action please." <OOC> Kiroth says, "I'll cast resist energy fire on myself and move 20 ft closer" GAME: Kiroth casts Resist Energy. Caster Level: 9 DC: 16 <OOC> Kiroth says, "It's 10 fire resistance"ys, "Okay, I think we pause at this juncture."

Kiroth turns to see the huge fire elemental and he casts a spell on himself, "Shining Knight guard me from the flames." He then moves closer ready to do battle with the huge fire elemental

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 14.
     It is now Kira's turn! Yngvild is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Kira, action please." <OOC> Kira has the shopkeeper outside, or still needs to get there? <OOC> Benthus says, "Still need to get there. Shopkeep can't move while under threat range. She'll die immediately." <OOC> Kira says, "So she can't be moved? That makes it really hard to get her out." <OOC> Benthus nods. Especially in a burning building. <OOC> Kira will move her, with herself between the shopkeep and the elemental. "If the counter isn't enough cover, Kira should be." <OOC> Benthus nods, "AoO." GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (20)+15: 35 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (1)+15: 16 (EPIC FAIL) <OOC> Benthus says, "Reflex roll DC18." GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (4)+4: 8 GAME: You damaged Kira for 8 points. 41 remaining. GAME: Kira rolls reflex: (1)+13: 14 (EPIC FAIL) GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6: (5): 5 GAME: You damaged Kira for 5 points. 36 remaining. <OOC> Benthus says, "You use yourself a shield in getting the shop owner out of the building. But you got hurt and burned in the process. Pose it."

Kira can't leave the shopkeep in the shop as it burns down. That is certain doom. Moving her past a flailing flaming creature isn't without it's dangers. She picks up the woman and holds her close as she makes her way out, putting her back to the elemental and her body between the two. Kira is struck and burned for it, but better her than the woman.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 10.
     It is now Yngvild's turn! Huge Fire Ele is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Yngvild, action please." <OOC> Yngvild says, "Channel positive to heal as many folks as I can get too" GAME: Yngvild rolls 6d6: (18): 18 GAME: You damaged Yngvild for -18 points. 60 remaining. GAME: You damaged Kira for -18 points. 54 remaining. GAME: You damaged Schneider for -18 points. 70 remaining. GAME: You damaged Kiroth for -18 points. 86 remaining.

Yngvild's teeth grit as she raises the hammer on high, her other hand dropping to the hammer in miniature around her neck "IRON MOUNTAIN WITNESS" she bellows to the heavens as a glowing light descends to engulf her. She slams the haft down on the floor and the light flares out to engulf the wounded and sooth their injuries.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 19.
     It is now Huge Fire Ele's turn! Schneider is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "1 Schneider 2 Yngvild" GAME: Benthus rolls 1d2: (1): 1 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (18)+15: 33 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (15)+15: 30 GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (10)+4: 14 GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (6)+4: 10 <OOC> Benthus says, "Roll reflex, Schneider." GAME: Schneider rolls reflex: (2)+5: 7 GAME: You damaged Schneider for 24 points. 46 remaining. GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6: (2): 2 <OOC> Benthus says, "No fire damage."

Huge Fire elemental pummels Schneider with both huge fists and connects. The fire damage is ignored by the giantborn.


GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 19.
     It is now Schneider's turn! Kiroth is next!

<OOC> Schneider says, "I'll try to hack him again. Same deal, power attack and arcane strike." <OOC> Benthus says, "Roll it." GAME: Schneider rolls 1d20+7: (1)+7: 8 (EPIC FAIL) Schneider cackles, possibly dishearteningly, possibly madly, certainly incessantly as he faces off against the fire elemental with his greatsword. The fire, he ignores; the hits, he rolls with, with intermittent success. He fights on, swinging his sword wildly, though he's closer to Yngvild than the fire elemental. He's more about enthusiasm than skill.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 14.
     It is now Kiroth's turn! Kira is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Kiroth. You are 40 feet away from HUGE fire elemental. Action please." GAME: Latenat rolls initiative: Roll: 4 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 8 GAME: Latenat's initiative total changed to 23. <OOC> Kiroth says, "Charge! I'll take the AoO, vital strike and power attack" GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (15)+15: 30 GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (5)+4: 9 <OOC> Benthus says, "Reflex save DC18, Kiroth." GAME: Kiroth rolls reflex: (14)+8: 22 GAME: Kiroth rolls 1d20+14+1+2+2-4: (5)+14+1+2+2+-4: 20

Kiroth charges into the fire and even though he's hit he keeps on going. He slashes at the fire, but his sword swing barely misses.

The huge fire elemental shifts his gaze to the approaching sun guard. It scowls and swipes at him with a free hand, hitting squarely on the shoulder. But the fire damage does not hinder the knight.


GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 14.
     It is now Kira's turn! Yngvild is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Kira. You have made it outside the shop with the shop owner. Action please." <OOC> Kira says, "Are there any more slavers outside? Where did the hooded captive go?" <OOC> Benthus says, "She is standing near the spot where Thug 1 was killed. She is still there, unmoving. Duncan is near her." <OOC> Kira says, "Ok. I'll leave the shopkeep with another adventurer for protection. Then I'll see if there's any water or buckets handy. If so, grab some water. If not, I'll head back inside." <OOC> Benthus says, "There is water around. But with the Huge fire elemental still there, dousing the fire seems moot." <OOC> Benthus says, "You are free to continue to do so if you insist." <OOC> Kira says, "Ok. Swift LoH on myself and head back inside." GAME: Kira rolls 1d6: (4): 4 GAME: You damaged Kira for -4 points. 58 remaining. <OOC> Benthus says, "Swift action done. You can engage this round due to your speed. But You'll take AoO." <OOC> Benthus says, "Proceed?" <OOC> Kira says, "Yes. This thing has alot of AoOs." GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (9)+15: 24 GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (4)+4: 8 <OOC> Benthus says, "Roll reflex DC18." GAME: You damaged Kira for 8 points. 50 remaining. GAME: Kira rolls reflex: (4)+13: 17 <OOC> Benthus says, "Burn damage incoming." GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6: (5): 5 GAME: You damaged Kira for 5 points. 45 remaining. <OOC> Benthus says, "You are free to attack now, Kira." <OOC> Kira grabs it. Since I'm already on fire, anyhow. GAME: Kira rolls cmb+7: (18)+11+7: 36 <OOC> Benthus says, "You manage to grapple a huge fire elemental. Pose it."

The huge fire elemental is alert enough to notice that Kira is coming in to engage in the fight. It takes a swipe at her and succeeds, coating parts of her body in fire.

"Please, protect them!" Kira beseeches Duncan as she leaves the shopkeep with him and the former captive. She takes a quick glance around for water, but putting out the flames will be har with the flaming thing still in there. She races back in, and right for it, taking a hit and igniting her robes. She does her best to ignore it and grabs ahold of the thing, fire or not.


GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 10.
     It is now Yngvild's turn! Latenat is next!

<OOC> Yngvild says, "As everyone seems to be getting injured I will channel positive again :P" <OOC> Benthus says, "Roll it." GAME: Yngvild rolls 6d6: (20): 20 GAME: You damaged Yngvild for -20 points. 60 remaining. GAME: You damaged Kira for -20 points. 61 remaining. GAME: You damaged Schneider for -20 points. 66 remaining. GAME: You damaged Kiroth for -20 points. 96 remaining. GAME: You damaged Latenat for -20 points. 35 remaining.

Yngvild's sharp eyes scan the storefront battleground in a practiced sweep. Noting more injuries to her companions she bellows a prayer again "ANGORON, HEAL THESE HEROES!" she prays demandingly towards the sky. A bright blue holy light burns in her eyes as she slams her booted foot down, the light flaring out to engulf the wounded in a soothing balm.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Four - Init 23.
     It is now Latenat's turn! Huge Fire Ele is next!

<OOC> Kira says, "On the bright side, it does not threaten while grappled." <OOC> Latenat will place himself where he is flanking with Schneider, whip out my rapier and poke the elemental. GAME: Latenat rolls 1d20+9: (10)+9: 19 GAME: Latenat rolls 4d6+2: (18)+2: 20

Having stepped out to powder his nose Latenat's head whips around when the elemental formerly known as thugly the mage exits in the building,"Oh, hells no. Not in my City." he curses vehemently as he discards the wooden sap in favor of a tempered steel blade. Thankfully, the swarm of adventurers surrounding it have hampered the huge figure enough that he can dance nearby it another to harry it opposite Schneider,"Ahah!" the blade lances upward across where its eyes would be, if it had them. It seems disgruntled by this beyond wrestling with Kira, but being no natural creature it is hard to tell.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 19.
     It is now Huge Fire Ele's turn! Schneider is next!

Huge fire elemental is grappled.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 19.
     It is now Schneider's turn! Kiroth is next!

<OOC> Schneider says, "If it can't AOO, I'll whip out some Shocking Grasp." GAME: Schneider rolls 1d20+8: (17)+8: 25 GAME: Schneider rolls 5d6: (21): 21

Schneider holds out one hand, pausing in his ineffective sword attack to channel lightning, reaching out with a broad hand to reach out and touch the elemental, releasing a spark of electricity, connecting with a loud SNAP. "Hah, bastard, take that!" he shouts triumphantly.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 14.
     It is now Kiroth's turn! Kira is next!

<OOC> Kiroth says, "If I can I'll move to flank, full attack if I can, power attack." <OOC> Benthus says, "You can flank with Kira, Kiroth. Full attack away." GAME: Kiroth rolls 1d20+14+1+2+2-4: (20)+14+1+2+2+-4: 35 <OOC> Kiroth says, "This is for the confirm crit" GAME: Kiroth rolls 1d20+14+1+2+2-4: (2)+14+1+2+2+-4: 17 GAME: Kiroth rolls 1d20+14+1+2+2-4-5: (18)+14+1+2+2+-4+-5: 28 GAME: Kiroth rolls 2d8+5+4+2: (8)+5+4+2: 19 GAME: Kiroth rolls 2d8+5+4+2: (10)+5+4+2: 21

Kiroth slashes at the huge fire elemental twice with his magic sword. It slices through the elemental twice causing great damage to it. He holds up his shield ready to fend it off.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 14.
     It is now Kira's turn! Yngvild is next!

GAME: Kira rolls cmb+7: (8)+11+7: 26 GAME: Kira rolls cmb+7: (13)+11+7: 31 <OOC> Benthus says, "CMD is high. 34." <OOC> Kira says, "Ouch. Well, he's no longer grappled, then."

"I'll get it out of here! Try and put out the fire!" Now that the shopkeep is safe, her next was to keep the thing from hurting anyone. That done, now she wants to save the shop. She tries to work herself and the flaming... limb... stuff to gain full control, and to try and maneuver it out of the shop. Doing this to something on fire is difficult and its flexible limbs don't help, either. She fails in both regards.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 10.
     It is now Yngvild's turn! Latenat is next!

<OOC> Yngvild says, "Well that narrows down my options, charge and hammer it" GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (3)+15: 18 GAME: Yngvild rolls 1d20+10+2: (2)+10+2: 14

"ANGORON!" Yngvild yells, her powerful voice echoing around the room. She charges in, hammer raised up high. She ducks under its swings, and replies with one of her own, that manages to make a mess of the floor.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Five - Init 23.
     It is now Latenat's turn! Huge Fire Ele is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Latenat, action please." <OOC> Latenat uses the pokemon attack on the Large elemental. GAME: Latenat rolls 1d20+9: (14)+9: 23 <OOC> Latenat says, "sorry, that's a 21, no flanking on elementals" <OOC> Benthus says, "It still hits its AC." GAME: Latenat rolls 1d6+2: (1)+2: 3

As much as he is a street rogue this sort of foe is outside of Latenat's realm of experience, and his blade whilst true lacks the power needed to affect the extra-planar form.... his scalpel-like precision for going after vulnerables simply doesn't apply here!

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Five - Init 19.
     It is now Huge Fire Ele's turn! Schneider is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "1 Kira 2 Kiroth 3 Latenat 4 Schneider 5 Yngvild" GAME: Benthus rolls 1d5: (2): 2 <OOC> Benthus says, "Kiroth, you get HFE's attack." GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (10)+15: 25 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (15)+15: 30 <OOC> Benthus says, "One hit." GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (10)+4: 14 <OOC> Benthus says, "Reflex save DC18, Kiroth." GAME: You damaged Kiroth for 14 points. 82 remaining. GAME: Kiroth rolls reflex: (19)+8: 27

The huge fire elemental manages to break the hold over it by Kira and stretches to its full height. It did not like what Kiroth did to it and makes this sentiment known to the sunblade. One of this two fist-slams connects with the knight, but the fire damage does nothing to him.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Five - Init 19.
     It is now Schneider's turn! Kiroth is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Schneider, action please." <OOC> Schneider says, "Hack with sword, power attack + arcane strike" GAME: Schneider rolls 1d20+7: (9)+7: 16

With the elemental no longer grappled, Schneider can't cast magic without taking a smacking. And he's not really interested in a smacking while he casts, he's gotten sufficiently pummeled as it is. So he takes a two-handed grip on his trusty sword, energy crackling up and down the blade as he swings it at the creature. Unfortunately, he's not actually as good at the swordplay part of it and he misses once again.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Five - Init 14.
     It is now Kiroth's turn! Kira is next!

<OOC> Kiroth says, "Keep attacking the element, full attack with power attack" GAME: Kiroth rolls 1d20+14+1+2+2-4: (2)+14+1+2+2+-4: 17 GAME: Kiroth rolls 1d20+14+1+2+2-4-5: (5)+14+1+2+2+-4+-5: 15

Kiroth takes a hit from the element and he swings his sword at the elemental, but even with it's large side it's hard to strike at it with the intense heat blinding him. He gives a grunt of frustration at missing twice.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Five - Init 14.
     It is now Kira's turn! Yngvild is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Kira, action please." <OOC> Kira will try grabbing and yoinking the thing out of her or at least keeping it from hurting people. GAME: Kira rolls cmb+7: (3)+11+7: 21 GAME: Kira rolls cmb+7: (8)+11+7: 26 <OOC> Kira says, "Yeah, not with those."

Kira barely got her plan of action voiced out to the others when she lost her grip on the elemental. Burnt skin aside, she tries again, but grabbing flaming parts continues to be difficult... and painful. "Stop this! Why are you doing this?!" YEs, she's asking the elemental. It isn't the first fiery elemental she's met. Not that she's met many, but the last ones seemed rather reasonable.

The huge fire elemental looks at Kira as she raised a question for it. It appears to ponder for a moment and then, the sound of crackling branches and roaring wind gives rise to a sound. A melody even. And then a voice. "I... don't want... to set the world... on fire... I just... want to start... a flame... in your heart."

Literally...

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Five - Init 10.
     It is now Yngvild's turn! Latenat is next!

<OOC> Benthus says, "Yngvild, action please." <OOC> Yngvild says, "Everyone is in green, so full attack" GAME: Yngvild rolls 1d20+10: (17)+10: 27 GAME: Yngvild rolls 1d20+10: (1)+10: 11 (EPIC FAIL) GAME: Yngvild rolls 2d6+5: (8)+5: 13

Another quick scan of those around Yngvild shows no-one grievously wounded so the Aesir Warrior grins wolfishly and raises her huge hammer up "IRON MOUNTAIN GUIDE MY BLOWS" she demands of the heavens as her first strike slams into the creature. She brings it around again but having to avoid her allies around her and rather uncertain footing almost takes Latenat's head off as she misses completely.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Six - Init 23.
     It is now Latenat's turn! Huge Fire Ele is next!

GAME: Latenat rolls 1d20+7: (18)+7: 25 GAME: Latenat rolls 1d6+2: (1)+2: 3

Latenat attacks the huge fire elemental and hits, but the damage is ignored by its tough, fiery shell.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Six - Init 19.
     It is now Huge Fire Ele's turn! Schneider is next!

GAME: Benthus rolls 1d5: (4): 4 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (19)+15: 34 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (13)+15: 28 GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (9)+4: 13 GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (4)+4: 8 GAME: You damaged Schneider for 21 points. 45 remaining. GAME: Schneider rolls reflex: (6)+5: 11 GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6: (9): 9

Huge fire Elemental attacks Schneider once again and hits him twice with its huge fist, but the fire does nothing to the giantborn.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Six - Init 19.
     It is now Schneider's turn! Kiroth is next!

<OOC> Schneider says, "So, my attacks have been pretty useless. I'll walk out of it's threatened area, sucking up an AOO, and I'll lightning bolt it (ref save) from an angle that won't hit any allies." GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+15: (11)+15: 26 GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6+4: (4)+4: 8 <OOC> Benthus says, "reflex save, Schneider." GAME: Schneider rolls reflex: (9)+5: 14 GAME: You damaged Schneider for 8 points. 37 remaining. GAME: Benthus rolls 2d6: (9): 9 <OOC> Benthus says, "Still ignored." <OOC> Benthus says, "Cast away, Schneider." GAME: Schneider casts Lightning Bolt. Caster Level: 7 DC: 16 GAME: Schneider rolls 7d6: (27): 27 GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+14: (17)+14: 31

Schneider grumbles as his swordplay has been less than effective. He dodges out of the creatures huge zone of control because he's poor at casting while being beaten up, and while he takes a smack getting out of range, it's all in a day's work for the sorcerer. "Zarzardo! Bakemono! Lightning, heed my call!" he shouts, and holds out one hand, palm out. Lightning shoots forth, and this time, the elemental sort of writhes, then dissipates. "Take that!" he shouts to the empty air. Then he looks around. Wasn't there another bad guy? The fact that the place is on fire doesn't seem to bother him that much. It smells nice?

(Scene to be continued in plot 'Damsel in distress 2')