House of the Rising Phoenix

Master Benkueh, Voln's Visiontary - Part 5

Benkueh quietly says, “They are relentless.”

Taverkin squeakily exclaims, “We just needs ta turn up the lights!”

Sir Metadi’s group just went down a steep path leading to the south.

[Fearling Pass, Rocky Trail]
Lakebed rocks become more prominent along this offshoot of the trail,
as though more recently maintained. The dark rich stones sport a
mottled hue speared with alabaster veins. The pass meanders east a
short distance before a steep ledge cuts it off, descending into a
deep gully and down to the edge of a morose-looking swamp. Forbidding
scents waft outward, festooning its banks like a decorative collar.
You also see the Hoy disk, a shadowy apparition, a steep path leading
to the north and a weathered sign.
Also here: Karibeth, Olgretien, Dreuntar, Greganth, Arpelli, Sovine,
Seomanthe, Zelas, Squire Legionnaire Nouvard, Mylenna, Godefroy, High
Lady Vilorcasdra, Master Benkueh, Lord Syberus, Taverkin, Snowrok, Sir
Metadi
Obvious paths: west

Vilorcasdra removes a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana from in her
veil iron thigh sheath.

Mylenna draws a faenor-hilted mithril falchion from her russet leather
swordbelt’s elongated mahogany scabbard.

(Supremacy)
You feel infused with a collective knowledge on the undead and their weaknesses.

Metadi swings a perfect rolaren-capped sledgehammer at a shadowy apparition!
AS: +617 vs DS: +420 with AvD: +34 + d100 roll: +60 = +291
… and hits for 141 points of damage!
Painful attack flays the leg from thigh to calf.
New skin lies, snakelike, beneath the old.
The apparition writhes as its spectral form bends and warps uncontrollably!

Surprisingly, Metadi manages to effortlessly reverse his momentum and
strike again!

Metadi swings a perfect rolaren-capped sledgehammer at a shadowy apparition!
AS: +617 vs DS: +383 with AvD: +34 + d100 roll: +79 = +347
… and hits for 174 points of damage!
A mighty attack shatters the left hand into a thousand fragments.
To your horror, the fragments turn to vapor and reform the hand.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadowy apparition’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
The shadowy apparition slowly settles to the ground and begins to dissipate.

Metadi yells, “Voln wills it!”

Sir Metadi’s group just went west.

[Fearling Pass, Rocky Trail]
Meadowlike fields awash with wildflowers stretch in all directions, a
symphony of crickets and locusts filling the air with their song.
Lakebed rocks occasionally line the trail, an ancient effort to keep
the encroaching weeds from overtaking the pass. You also see a
shadowy corpse that is lying down, a shadowy apparition, an inky black
shadow champion, a shadow warrior, the Snowrok disk, an inky black
shadow servant, a shadowy corpse that appears dead, a shadowy corpse
that appears dead, a shadowy corpse that appears dead, an inky black
shadow champion, a shadowy corpse that appears dead and a badly
damaged steel chest.
Also here: Karibeth, Olgretien, Dreuntar, Greganth, Arpelli, Sovine,
Seomanthe, Zelas, Squire Legionnaire Nouvard, Mylenna, Godefroy, High
Lady Vilorcasdra, Master Benkueh, Lord Syberus, Taverkin, Sir Metadi,
Snowrok
Obvious paths: east, southeast, northwest

A shadow warrior swings a black steel claidhmore at you!
AS: +295 vs DS: +326 with AvD: +19 + d100 roll: +30 = +18
A clean miss.

Metadi swings a perfect rolaren-capped sledgehammer at an inky black
shadow servant!
AS: +632 vs DS: +472 with AvD: +37 + d100 roll: +50 = +247
… and hits for 126 points of damage!
Brutal assault cuts a swath through the torso!
Fortunately for the shadow servant, it doesn’t need lungs.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow servant’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
The shadow servant wails horribly as he begins to fade away!
The glowing specks of energy surrounding an inky black shadow servant
suddenly shoot off in all directions, then quickly fade away.
A white glow rushes away from an inky black shadow servant.
The dim aura fades from around an inky black shadow servant.
The light blue glow leaves an inky black shadow servant.
An inky black shadow servant appears less confident.
The shimmering multicolored sphere fades from around an inky black
shadow servant.

Metadi ducks his head.

Taverkin intones a phrase of elemental power while raising his hands…
Taverkin gestures at an inky black shadow champion.
Taverkin hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +548 vs DS: +261 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +100 = +432
… and hits for 168 points of damage!
Hard strike shatters arm into vapor.
The arm reforms before your eyes!
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow champion’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.

Benkueh attempts to smite an inky black shadow champion!
Benkueh’s arm and fist briefly glow silver with holy power!
UAF: 862 vs UDF: 613 = 1.406 * MM: 87 + d100: 82 = 204
A crimson mist suddenly surrounds the shadow champion as he is
unwillingly drawn into the corporeal plane!

An inky black shadow champion emerges from the surrounding shadows,
the tip of his blade drawing through the ground before being raised
high above his head.

Benkueh attempts to smite an inky black shadow servant!
As Benkueh strikes, a deep golden light surrounds his hands!
Benkueh’s arm and fist briefly glow silver with holy power!
UAF: 862 vs UDF: 430 = 2.000 (capped) * MM: 104 + d100: 19 = 227
A crimson mist suddenly surrounds the shadow servant as he is
unwillingly drawn into the corporeal plane!

Godefroy channels at an inky black shadow servant.
Particles of dust and soot rise from the ground at Godefroy’s feet as
he releases a pulsating, platinum ripple of energy toward an inky
black shadow servant!
CS: +485 – TD: +409 + CvA: +25 + d100: +68 == +169
Warding failed!
The shadow servant is cloaked in a blinding platinum light and
assailed for 107 points of damage!
… 50 points of damage!
Huge strike vaporizes the left thigh.
The shadow servant convulses, falling inward upon itself while the leg mends.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow servant’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
The shadow servant wails horribly as he begins to fade away!
The glowing specks of energy surrounding an inky black shadow servant
suddenly shoot off in all directions, then quickly fade away.
A white glow rushes away from an inky black shadow servant.
The dim aura fades from around an inky black shadow servant.
The crimson mist surrounding an inky black shadow servant fades away
as he returns to an ethereal state.

You assault an inky black shadow master with an unrelenting fury!
You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at an inky black shadow master!
Amazingly, the shadow master manages to parry the attack with its flail!
Pearly light flares up suddenly from within you, lending strength and
focus to your attack!
You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at an inky black shadow master!
AS: +649 vs DS: +296 with AvD: +39 + d100 roll: +41 = +433
… and hit for 126 points of damage!
Quick strike to the right leg!
The shadow master makes no bones about it.

You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at an inky black shadow master!
AS: +634 vs DS: +292 with AvD: +39 + d100 roll: +40 = +421
… and hit for 167 points of damage!
Mighty blow rips through the shadow master’s chest, causing it to
pause as it reforms.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow master’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
The shadow master slowly settles to the ground and begins to dissipate.
An inky black shadow master vanishes into thin air, leaving no trace behind.

Zelas changes his tune, adding a new element to his song…
Zelas skillfully begins to weave another verse into his harmony.
As Zelas sings, a squall of wind briefly swirls around you. You feel
yourself moving a bit more smoothly and quickly than before!

Nouvard swings a pure white steel handaxe at a shadow warrior!
AS: +398 vs DS: +143 with AvD: +38 + d100 roll: +35 = +328
… and hits for 71 points of damage!
Swift strike would have hit more than an ear, if only it were there.

Taverkin gestures at a shadow warrior.
Taverkin hurls a stream of fire at a shadow warrior!
AS: +563 vs DS: +146 with AvD: +38 + d100 roll: +37 = +492
… and hits for 179 points of damage!
Incredible strike to the shadow warrior’s back smashes through the chest!
Too bad it melts back together.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow warrior’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
Growling lowly, the shadow warrior falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.

Hoy just arrived.

An inky black shadow champion stalks in.

Seomanthe swings a seething grey thunderhead khopesh at an inky black
shadow champion!
AS: +466 vs DS: +297 with AvD: +33 + d100 roll: +38 = +240
… and hits for 26 points of damage!
Weak blow leaves a brief imprint on the shadow champion’s chest!

Greganth swings a white laen broadsword at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +558 vs DS: +297 with AvD: +30 + d100 roll: +60 = +351
… and hits for 53 points of damage!
Glancing blow to the right arm leaves a trail of vapor in its wake.

Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at an inky black
shadow champion!
AS: +574 vs DS: +285 with AvD: +41 + d100 roll: +42 = +372
… and hits for 100 points of damage!
Massive blow strikes the shadow champion and drives it back!
Good thing those ribs aren’t made of bone.

An inky black shadow champion’s spectral form restabilizes.
An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Mylenna!
AS: +455 vs DS: +456 with AvD: +38 + d100 roll: +67 = +104
… and hits for 7 points of damage!
Blow glances off Mylenna’s shoulder.

You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +605 vs DS: +299 with AvD: +51 + d100 roll: +28 = +385
… and hit for 99 points of damage!
Quick strike rips left arm open!
To your dismay it quickly closes on its own.
The champion writhes as his spectral form bends and warps uncontrollably!

You feel your rune-scribed maul straining back towards your foe!
Taking advantage of this, you manage to effortlessly reverse your
momentum and strike again!

You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +605 vs DS: +264 with AvD: +51 + d100 roll: +49 = +441
… and hit for 133 points of damage!
Strong assault amputates the leg at the knee.
It floats in the air a moment before drifting back into place!
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow champion’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.

Metadi attempts to grapple an inky black shadow champion!
UAF: 651 vs UDF: 473 = 1.376 * MM: 87 + d100: 72 = 191
… and hit for 23 points of damage!
Top of the head momentarily flattened.

Seomanthe swings a seething grey thunderhead khopesh at an inky black
shadow champion!
AS: +466 vs DS: +274 with AvD: +33 + d100 roll: +15 = +240
… and hits for 30 points of damage!
Weak blow leaves a brief imprint on the shadow champion’s chest!

Karibeth attempts to jab an inky black shadow champion!
UAF: 595 vs UDF: 461 = 1.290 * MM: 56 + d100: 73 = 145
…wait 1 seconds.
… and hit for 2 points of damage!
Half-hearted strike to the midsection.
The shadow champion seems unfazed.

Taverkin gestures at an inky black shadow champion.
Taverkin hurls a stream of fire at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +563 vs DS: +257 with AvD: +38 + d100 roll: +74 = +418
… and hits for 116 points of damage!
Smash to the chest!
Good thing there were no ribs there to shatter.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow champion’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.

Godefroy chants a reverent litany and clasps his hands while tightly
focusing his thoughts…

** Godefroy’s fireleaf scepter flares with a burst of flame! **

… 20 points of damage!
Strong hit rips arm from wrist to elbow.
The wound vanishes as the ethereal flesh swirls around in chaotic

Karibeth gestures while summoning the spirits of nature to her aid…
Karibeth gestures at an inky black shadow servant.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow servant! Several of the thorns jab into the
servant!
… hits for 10 points of damage!
… 10 points of damage!
Wild attack passes through the right leg, viciously assaulting the air!
The servant writhes as his spectral form bends and warps uncontrollably!
… hits for 16 points of damage!
… 15 points of damage!
A strong blow bursts the left calf open in a spray of vapor.
New muscle erupts from the middle of the wound, consuming the injured tissue.
… hits for 31 points of damage!
… 15 points of damage!
A strong blow bursts the right calf open in a spray of vapor.
New muscle erupts from the middle of the wound, consuming the injured tissue.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow servant’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
The shadow servant wails horribly as he begins to fade away!
The glowing specks of energy surrounding an inky black shadow servant
suddenly shoot off in all directions, then quickly fade away.
A white glow rushes away from an inky black shadow servant.
The dim aura fades from around an inky black shadow servant.

Dreuntar’s hands glow with power as he summons elemental energy to his
command…
Dreuntar gestures at an inky black shadow servant.
Pearly light flares up suddenly from within Dreuntar!
Dreuntar hurls a hissing stream of acid at an inky black shadow servant!
AS: +540 vs DS: +445 with AvD: +36 + d100 roll: +60 = +191
… and hits for 60 points of damage!
Massive blow strikes the shadow servant and drives it back!
Good thing those ribs aren’t made of bone.

Metadi attempts to grapple an inky black shadow servant!
UAF: 651 vs UDF: 662 = 0.983 * MM: 82 + d100: 95 = 175
… and hit for 30 points of damage!
Strong hit rips arm from wrist to elbow.
The wound vanishes as the ethereal flesh swirls around in chaotic patterns.

** Metadi’s tanned leather gloves spray forth a shower of pure water! **

… 40 points of damage!
The shadow servant’s head is split cleanly in two, but reseals from
the neck up!
The servant writhes as his spectral form bends and warps uncontrollably!

Ziunya gestures.
Ziunya holds her two open hands before her, fingers splayed, as a
black ball full of pinpoints of light forms between them. When the
ball grows so large that she can barely control it, she unleashes the
dark cloud before her and it instantaneously spreads throughout the
entire area!

The starry void envelops an inky black shadow servant!
CS: +463 – TD: +408 + CvA: +25 + d100: +82 == +162
Warding failed!
An inky black shadow servant is pulled into the void and disappears!
He returns almost instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops an inky black shadow champion!
CS: +463 – TD: +350 + CvA: -19 + d100: +35 == +129
Warding failed!
An inky black shadow champion is pulled into the void and disappears!
She returns almost instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Hoy!
CS: +463 – TD: +376 + CvA: +4 + d100: +13 == +104
Warding failed!
Hoy is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Arnylon!
CS: +463 – TD: +323 + CvA: +12 + d100: +41 == +193
Warding failed!
Arnylon is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Taverkin!
CS: +463 – TD: +367 + CvA: +14 + d100: +11 == +121
Warding failed!
Taverkin is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Syberus!
CS: +463 – TD: +432 + CvA: +5 + d100: +66 == +102
Warding failed!
Syberus is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Benkueh!
CS: +463 – TD: +426 + CvA: +25 + d100: +35 == +97
Warded off!
Benkueh resists the pull of the starry void!

The starry void envelops Vilorcasdra!
CS: +463 – TD: +355 + CvA: -21 + d100: +54 == +141
Warding failed!
Vilorcasdra is pulled into the void and disappears! She returns
almost instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Karibeth!
CS: +463 – TD: +394 + CvA: +2 + d100: +41 == +112
Warding failed!
Karibeth is pulled into the void and disappears! She returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Olgretien!
CS: +463 – TD: +383 + CvA: -20 + d100: +47 == +107
Warding failed!
Olgretien is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Dreuntar!
CS: +463 – TD: +433 + CvA: +14 + d100: +42 == +86
Warded off!
Dreuntar resists the pull of the starry void!

The starry void envelops Greganth!
CS: +463 – TD: +322 + CvA: -8 + d100: +24 == +157
Warding failed!
Greganth is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Arpelli!
CS: +463 – TD: +297 + CvA: +14 + d100: +82 == +262
Warding failed!
Arpelli is pulled into the void and disappears! She returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Sovine!
CS: +463 – TD: +349 + CvA: +2 + d100: +98 == +214
Warding failed!
Sovine is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Seomanthe!
CS: +463 – TD: +297 + CvA: +2 + d100: +48 == +216
Warding failed!
Seomanthe is pulled into the void and disappears! She returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Zelas!
CS: +463 – TD: +242 + CvA: -7 + d100: +25 == +239
Warding failed!
Zelas is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Nouvard!
CS: +463 – TD: +203 + CvA: -19 + d100: +23 == +264
Warding failed!
Nouvard is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Mylenna!
CS: +463 – TD: +179 + CvA: +2 + d100: +91 == +377
Warding failed!
Mylenna is pulled into the void and disappears! She returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Godefroy!
CS: +463 – TD: +397 + CvA: -6 + d100: +8 == +68
Warded off!
Godefroy resists the pull of the starry void!

The starry void envelops you!
CS: +463 – TD: +331 + CvA: -21 + d100: +18 == +129
Warding failed!
You are pulled against your will into the void! The world around you
instantly disappears! An open expanse of black broken by tiny
pinpoints of light surrounds you as you tumble about in empty space.
Amorphous nebulae of pink, blue, purple and green swirl passed as you
writhe around with nothing to hold onto. Finally, after what seems
like an eternity, you are yanked back to the familiar world of
Elanthia. Apparently, no time has elapsed since your departure as you
find yourself staring at the scene you left earlier. The only
souvenirs from your journey are a sick feeling in your stomach and a
powerful sense of vertigo.

The starry void envelops Metadi!
CS: +463 – TD: +390 + CvA: -21 + d100: +68 == +120
Warding failed!
Metadi is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

Vertigo!

The ground suddenly shifts underneath you!
You fall flat on the ground!
Nouvard looks dizzy and falls to the ground!
Zelas looks dizzy and falls to the ground!
Sovine reels and turns green.
Greganth falls flat on the ground!
Olgretien stares off into the air looking a bit pale.
Vilorcasdra falls flat on the ground!
The mirror images surrounding Arpelli undulate and fade away.
Syberus stares off into the air looking a bit pale.
Taverkin falls flat on the ground!
Arnylon reels and turns green.
Hoy stares off into the air looking a bit pale.
An inky black shadow servant looks suddenly distressed!

An inky black shadow champion prepares herself for a mighty attack!

All of a sudden, Greganth rolls hard to his side, and then leaps to his feet!

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Greganth!
AS: +445 vs DS: +363 with AvD: +40 + d100 roll: +59 = +181
… and hits for 33 points of damage!
Mighty blow cracks several ribs.

Hoy screams!

Godefroy chants a reverent litany and clasps his hands while tightly
focusing his thoughts…
Godefroy gestures at an inky black shadow champion.
Godefroy hurls a stream of holy water at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +475 vs DS: +254 with AvD: +26 + d100 roll: +51 = +298
… and hits for 67 points of damage!
The shadow champion fades for a second as the blow passes through the chest.
An inky black shadow champion’s spectral form restabilizes.

Syberus traces a sign that contorts in the air while he forcefully
incants a dark invocation…
Syberus gestures at Ziunya.

The air around Ziunya glows brightly for a moment, consuming the
magical energy directed at her.

Ziunya appears to focus inward as she raises a hand and murmurs quietly…

An inky black shadow champion rushes towards Hoy and connects with a
shoulder check!
Hoy stands firm and manages to maintain his balance.

Vilorcasdra stands up.

Ziunya gestures at Taverkin.
A crackling whip of energy lashes out at Taverkin!
CS: +463 – TD: +367 + CvA: +14 + d100: +21 == +131
Warding failed!
… 40 points of damage!
Rough grapple to the head, cracks skull in several places!
He is stunned!
The residual psychic energy from the attack surrounds Taverkin.

Karibeth attempts to jab Ziunya!
UAF: 595 vs UDF: 877 = 0.678 * MM: 5 + d100: 97 = 100
A close miss!

Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at an inky black
shadow champion!
AS: +558 vs DS: +265 with AvD: +41 + d100 roll: +57 = +391
… and hits for 120 points of damage!
Tremendous strike!
Vapor rushes from the neck following the blow!
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow champion’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.

A massive bearded white tiger charges forward and slashes her claws at
Ziunya faster than she can react!
… 5 points of damage!
Diagonal slash to Ziunya’s weapon arm.
Strike misses but bruises a few knuckles.

Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Ziunya!
AS: +595 vs DS: +627 with AvD: +33 + d100 roll: +30 = +31
A clean miss.

Translucent streams of mana cascade across Seomanthe’s form as she
lets loose with a rallying cry!
Taverkin’s muscles twitch slightly in response to the sound, but he
remains stunned.
Taverkin somehow rises smoothly to his feet!
Arpelli rises smoothly to her feet!
Zelas rises smoothly to his feet!
Nouvard rises smoothly to his feet!
Mylenna rises smoothly to her feet!
A sense of invigoration courses through your legs as Seomanthe’s rally
brings you smoothly to your feet!

Dreuntar traces a simple rune while intoning a short, mystical phrase…
Dreuntar gestures at Ziunya.
The tingling sensation and sense of security leaves Ziunya.

Metadi attempts to jab Ziunya!
UAF: 651 vs UDF: 746 = 0.872 * MM: 30 + d100: 47 = 73
A close miss!
An inky black shadow champion’s spectral form restabilizes.

You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +590 vs DS: +283 with AvD: +51 + d100 roll: +55 = +413
… and hit for 120 points of damage!
Quick strike to the left leg!
The shadow champion makes no bones about it.
The champion writhes as her spectral form bends and warps uncontrollably!

You feel your rune-scribed maul straining back towards your foe!
Taking advantage of this, you manage to effortlessly reverse your
momentum and strike again!

You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +590 vs DS: +247 with AvD: +51 + d100 roll: +27 = +421
… and hit for 132 points of damage!
Attack whistles right through the lower back encountering little resistance!
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow champion’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.

Ziunya suddenly vanishes as a mass of inky black shadows writhe around
her and sink into the ground!

Metadi says, “Take down Ziunya.”

Karibeth hisses.

Metadi says, “Anytime she shows up, she’s the priority target.”

You say, “She’s fast.”

You say, “But not as fast as Vilthulko.”

Speaking in Elven, Vilorcasdra says something you don’t understand.

Inky black shadows writhe violently along the ground and Vilthulko
suddenly appears within their flailing tendrils!

Vilthulko appears to focus inward as he raises a hand and murmurs quietly…
Vilthulko gestures at Karibeth.
A translucent force moves outward from Vilthulko and toward Karibeth.
Karibeth is buffeted by the force, but remains standing.

Vilthulko suddenly vanishes as a mass of inky black shadows writhe
around him and sink into the ground!

Taverkin squeakily exclaims, “He’s here too!”

A crackling whip of energy lashes out at Karibeth!
CS: +482 – TD: +394 + CvA: +2 + d100: +64 == +154
Warding failed!
… 20 points of damage!
Tough leg grapple followed by a *snap* in the left leg!
She is knocked to the ground!
She is stunned!
The residual psychic energy from the attack surrounds Karibeth.

You blink.

The air grows still and quiet as an inky black shadow servant comes gliding in!

Hoy gestures while summoning the spirits of nature to his aid…
Hoy gestures at an inky black shadow servant.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow servant! Several of the thorns jab into the
servant!
… hits for 18 points of damage!
… 15 points of damage!
A strong blow bursts the left calf open in a spray of vapor.
New muscle erupts from the middle of the wound, consuming the injured tissue.
… hits for 12 points of damage!
… 15 points of damage!
A strong blow bursts the left calf open in a spray of vapor.
New muscle erupts from the middle of the wound, consuming the injured tissue.
… hits for 15 points of damage!
… 10 points of damage!
Wild attack passes through the left leg, viciously assaulting the air!
… hits for 11 points of damage!
… 20 points of damage!
A fine strike pins the right leg for an instant.
The shadow servant looks miffed.

Metadi says, “Sunburst.”

Seomanthe pulls Arpelli to her feet.

Zelas stands up.

Metadi removes an oaken wand from in his lamb’s wool tabard.

Metadi waves an oaken wand at Karibeth.
The glazed look leaves Karibeth.

A crackling whip of energy lashes out at Hoy!
CS: +482 – TD: +376 + CvA: +4 + d100: +67 == +177
Warding failed!
… 10 points of damage!
Leg grapple, twisted ankle but Hoy is not knocked down.
He is stunned!
The residual psychic energy from the attack surrounds Hoy.

Dreuntar traces a simple rune while intoning a short, mystical phrase…
Dreuntar gestures at an inky black shadow servant.
CS: +539 – TD: +436 + CvA: +25 + d100: +4 == +132
Warding failed!
Dreuntar blasts an inky black shadow servant for 19 points of damage.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow servant’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
The shadow servant wails horribly as he begins to fade away!
The glowing specks of energy surrounding an inky black shadow servant
suddenly shoot off in all directions, then quickly fade away.
A white glow rushes away from an inky black shadow servant.
The dim aura fades from around an inky black shadow servant.
The light blue glow leaves an inky black shadow servant.

Zelas pulls Mylenna to her feet.

Sovine says, “Vilthu is here also.”

Pearly light flares up suddenly from within Olgretien!
Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at an inky black
shadow servant!
AS: +573 vs DS: +522 with AvD: +43 + d100 roll: +85 = +179
… and hits for 65 points of damage!
Vicious blow to neck might have been fatal a few centuries ago.

An inky black shadow servant gestures at Mylenna!
CS: +417 – TD: +178 + CvA: +2 + d100: +47 == +288
Warding failed!
Mylenna’s eyes cloud over, becoming a milky blue.
Mylenna appears dazed! Mylenna appears distraught and falls to her
knees in divine reverence!

You concentrate intently, focusing all your energies.
With instinctive motions, you weave to and fro striking with
deliberate and unrelenting fury!
You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at an inky black shadow servant!
Amazingly, the shadow servant manages to parry the attack with his staff!
You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at an inky black shadow servant!
AS: +605 vs DS: +562 with AvD: +37 + d100 roll: +100 = +180
… and hit for 46 points of damage!
Smoky tendrils rise from neck as your attack sweeps through.
The servant writhes as his spectral form bends and warps uncontrollably!

Godefroy chants a reverent litany and clasps his hands while tightly
focusing his thoughts…
Godefroy channels at an inky black shadow servant.
Particles of dust and soot rise from the ground at Godefroy’s feet as
he releases a pulsating, platinum ripple of energy toward an inky
black shadow servant!
CS: +485 – TD: +456 + CvA: +25 + d100: +64 == +118
Warding failed!
The shadow servant is cloaked in a blinding platinum light and
assailed for 73 points of damage!
… 30 points of damage!
Strong blow to the head!
The shadow servant enjoys the breeze.
The servant writhes as his spectral form bends and warps uncontrollably!
… 20 points of damage!

Metadi attempts to kick an inky black shadow servant!
UAF: 651 vs UDF: 546 = 1.192 * MM: 99 + d100: 15 = 133
… and hit for 22 points of damage!
Left ankle stung!
The shadow servant stamps in silent annoyance.

Karibeth gestures at an inky black shadow servant.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow servant! Several of the thorns jab into the
servant!
… hits for 12 points of damage!
… 10 points of damage!
Wild attack passes through the left leg, viciously assaulting the air!
… hits for 33 points of damage!
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadow servant’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
The shadow servant wails horribly as he begins to fade away!
The glowing specks of energy surrounding an inky black shadow servant
suddenly shoot off in all directions, then quickly fade away.
A white glow rushes away from an inky black shadow servant.
The dim aura fades from around an inky black shadow servant.

A crackling whip of energy lashes out at Dreuntar!
CS: +463 – TD: +433 + CvA: +14 + d100: +38 == +82
Warded off!
The residual psychic energy from the attack disperses.

Hoy falls to the ground!
Arnylon falls to the ground!
Taverkin falls to the ground!
Syberus falls to the ground!
Benkueh falls to the ground!
Vilorcasdra falls to the ground!
Karibeth falls to the ground!
Olgretien falls to the ground!
Dreuntar falls to the ground!
Greganth falls to the ground!
Arpelli falls to the ground!
Sovine falls to the ground!
Seomanthe falls to the ground!
Zelas falls to the ground!
Nouvard falls to the ground!
Mylenna falls over!
Godefroy falls to the ground!
The ground beneath you violently shakes and rumbles causing you to fall down!

Vilthulko attempts to jab Dreuntar!
As Vilthulko strikes, a deep golden light surrounds his hands!
UAF: 632 vs UDF: 441 = 1.433 * MM: 99 + d100: 87 = 228
… and hit for 19 points of damage!
Sinking jab to gut causes Dreuntar to exhale sharply.

Vilorcasdra stands up.

Syberus stands up.

Seomanthe yells, “On your feets!”

Translucent streams of mana cascade across Seomanthe’s form as she
lets loose with a rallying cry!
Seomanthe rises smoothly to her feet!
Hoy rises smoothly to his feet!
Arnylon rises smoothly to his feet!
Benkueh rises smoothly to his feet!
Karibeth rises smoothly to her feet!
Olgretien rises smoothly to his feet!
Dreuntar rises smoothly to his feet!
Greganth rises smoothly to his feet!
Arpelli rises smoothly to her feet!
Sovine rises smoothly to his feet!
Zelas rises smoothly to his feet!
Nouvard rises smoothly to his feet!
Mylenna rises smoothly to her feet!
Godefroy rises smoothly to his feet!
A sense of invigoration courses through your legs as Seomanthe’s rally
brings you smoothly to your feet!
Metadi rises smoothly to his feet!

You quickly roll to the left, then spring to your feet, ready again for action!

Roundtime: 2 sec.
Roundtime changed to 1 second.
Vilthulko attempts to punch Dreuntar!
UAF: 632 vs UDF: 829 = 0.762 * MM: 85 + d100: 62 = 126
… and hit for 23 points of damage!
Descending fist ends its arc against right knee, sending Dreuntar
stumbling back. Once smitten, twice shy!
Dreuntar starts to favor his wounded leg!

You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at Vilthulko!
By amazing chance, Vilthulko evades the attack!

Vilthulko just went north.

Geijon just went north.

[Lake of Fear, South Dock]
Water laps about the pilings that hold up the greying surface of the
wooden dock, the only sound to be heard across the dark and eerily
silent lake. A thick coil of rope lies at the edge of the dock,
waiting for the next boat to arrive. A small wooden sign is tacked to
the dock’s sturdy railing.
Also here: Vilthulko
Obvious paths: south

Pearly light flares up suddenly from within you, lending strength and
focus to your attack!
You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at Vilthulko!
AS: +592 vs DS: +599 with AvD: +47 + d100 roll: +11 = +51
A clean miss.

You say, “Bastard.”

Vilthulko attempts to jab you!

Vilthulko has decent positioning against you.
UAF: 632 vs UDF: 496 = 1.274 * MM: 98 + d100: 44 = 168
… and hit for 2 points of damage!
Hasty strike to chest doesn’t do much harm.

** Vilthulko’s leather gloves glow brightly for a moment, consuming
the magical energies around you! **

You no longer feel so dextrous.
You are coated in a hazy film.
You suddenly feel less protected.
Your sense of faith and conviction wanes. You are less sure of yourself.

You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at Vilthulko!
By amazing chance, Vilthulko evades the attack!

Vilthulko attempts to jab you!
Vilthulko has good positioning against you.
UAF: 632 vs UDF: 449 = 1.407 * MM: 97 + d100: 1 = 137
… and hit for 2 points of damage!
Quick blow to right knee makes you wince!
The strike causes you to favor your wounded leg!

Vilthulko attempts to grapple you!
As Vilthulko strikes, a deep golden light surrounds his hands!
Vilthulko has excellent positioning against you.
UAF: 632 vs UDF: 378 = 1.671 * MM: 97 + d100: 95 = 257
… and hit for 33 points of damage!
Powerful grip twists head around until it faces backwards, giving
you a new perspective on life!

* Geijon just bit the dust!

Dreuntar just arrived.

High Lady Vilorcasdra just strode in.

Sir Metadi’s group just arrived.

Vilthulko attempts to jab Vilorcasdra!
UAF: 632 vs UDF: 879 = 0.718 * MM: 66 + d100: 47 = 94
A close miss!

Syberus gestures at Vilthulko.
A void rips open in the area, directly above Vilthulko!
Debris strikes Vilthulko in the leg.
+24 Hits.
Vilthulko is stunned!

Vilorcasdra looks determined and focused.
In an awe inspiring display of combat mastery, Vilorcasdra engages
Vilthulko in a furious dance macabre, spiralling into a blur of
strikes and ripostes!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Vilthulko!
Vilthulko stumbles dazedly, somehow managing to evade the attack!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Vilthulko!
AS: +590 vs DS: +559 with AvD: +33 + d100 roll: +7 = +71
A clean miss.
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Vilthulko!
A hit!
Flashy swing!
Vilthulko is lucky that it only bopped his nose.
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Vilthulko!
A hit!
Slashing strike near forehead nicks an eyebrow!
That must sting!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Vilthulko!
Vilthulko stumbles dazedly, somehow managing to evade the attack!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Vilthulko!
A hit!
Quick slash to Vilthulko’s upper right arm!
Just a nick.

Dreuntar gestures at Vilthulko.
The very powerful look leaves Vilthulko.
The white light leaves Vilthulko.
The elemental aura around Vilthulko wavers.

Metadi attempts to kick Vilthulko!
UAF: 636 vs UDF: 659 = 0.965 * MM: 74 + d100: 50 = 121
… and hit for 12 points of damage!
Glancing roundhouse kick lands heel upside Vilthulko’s face.

** Metadi’s tanned leather boots spray forth a shower of pure water! **

Dreuntar gestures at Vilthulko.
Vilthulko looks around as if waking up from a dream.

Dreuntar gestures at Vilthulko.
The powerful look leaves Vilthulko.

Dreuntar gestures at Vilthulko.
Vilthulko takes a deep breath, blinking a couple of times before
resuming a calm expression.

Syberus gestures at Vilthulko.
A void rips open in the area, directly above Vilthulko!
Debris strikes Vilthulko in the leg.
+24 Hits.

Everything in the room seemed to stay in place. The void disappears
without further incident.

Dreuntar gestures at Vilthulko.
The light blue glow leaves Vilthulko.

Dreuntar gestures at Vilthulko.
The deep blue glow leaves Vilthulko.

Karibeth gestures at Vilthulko.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath
Vilthulko! Several of the thorns jab into him!
… hits for 13 points of damage!
… 10 points of damage!
Strike pierces thigh!
He is knocked to the ground!
… hits for 20 points of damage!
… 5 points of damage!
Minor puncture to the chest.

* Vilthulko drops dead at your feet!

Vilthulko appears to lose some internal strength.
Vilthulko becomes unbalanced for a second, then recovers.
A series of grey lines suddenly appear on Vilthulko’s face, quickly
racing towards the center of his forehead before detatching and
dissipating in the air.
The scales covering Vilthulko’s hands turn brittle and flake away.
The thick plates of bone around Vilthulko’s forearms begin to crack,
then shatter into a fine white dust.
The tension in Vilthulko’s skin eases and you notice that his
complexion returns to normal.

* Vilthulko just bit the dust!

Godefroy raises a hand while murmuring a soft orison…
Godefroy gestures at you.
You feel a tingle on your soul, as if a powerful hand is gently cradling it.

Zelas lets out a cheer!

Greganth peppers Seomanthe with tiny kisses all over her face.

Seomanthe kisses Greganth for what seems like an eternity.

Vilthulko’s body turns black as pitch and rapidly melts into a puddle
of ink. Within moments, the ink seeps into the ground and vanishes
from sight.

You growl, the sound resonating through the area.

Inky black shadows writhe violently along the ground and Ziunya
suddenly appears within their flailing tendrils!
Ziunya gestures.

Ziunya holds her two open hands before her, fingers splayed, as a
black ball full of pinpoints of light forms between them. When the
ball grows so large that she can barely control it, she unleashes the
dark cloud before her and it instantaneously spreads throughout the
entire area!

The starry void envelops Dreuntar!
CS: +463 – TD: +433 + CvA: +14 + d100: +62 == +106
Warding failed!
Dreuntar is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Hoy!
CS: +463 – TD: +402 + CvA: +4 + d100: +67 == +132
Warding failed!
Hoy is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Arnylon!
CS: +463 – TD: +323 + CvA: +12 + d100: +50 == +202
Warding failed!
Arnylon is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Taverkin!
CS: +463 – TD: +367 + CvA: +14 + d100: +39 == +149
Warding failed!
Taverkin is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Syberus!
CS: +463 – TD: +432 + CvA: +5 + d100: +88 == +124
Warding failed!
Syberus is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Benkueh!
CS: +463 – TD: +426 + CvA: +25 + d100: +65 == +127
Warding failed!
Benkueh is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Karibeth!
CS: +463 – TD: +394 + CvA: +2 + d100: +3 == +74
Warded off!
Karibeth resists the pull of the starry void!

The starry void envelops Olgretien!
CS: +463 – TD: +383 + CvA: -20 + d100: +36 == +96
Warded off!
Olgretien resists the pull of the starry void!

The starry void envelops Greganth!
CS: +463 – TD: +322 + CvA: -8 + d100: +13 == +146
Warding failed!
Greganth is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Arpelli!
CS: +463 – TD: +297 + CvA: +14 + d100: +21 == +201
Warding failed!
Arpelli is pulled into the void and disappears! She returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Sovine!
CS: +463 – TD: +349 + CvA: +2 + d100: +94 == +210
Warding failed!
Sovine is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Seomanthe!
CS: +463 – TD: +297 + CvA: +2 + d100: +47 == +215
Warding failed!
Seomanthe is pulled into the void and disappears! She returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Zelas!
CS: +463 – TD: +242 + CvA: -7 + d100: +38 == +252
Warding failed!
Zelas is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Nouvard!
CS: +463 – TD: +203 + CvA: -19 + d100: +51 == +292
Warding failed!
Nouvard is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Mylenna!
CS: +463 – TD: +179 + CvA: +2 + d100: +70 == +356
Warding failed!
Mylenna is pulled into the void and disappears! She returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Godefroy!
CS: +463 – TD: +397 + CvA: -6 + d100: +83 == +143
Warding failed!
Godefroy is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Metadi!
CS: +463 – TD: +390 + CvA: -21 + d100: +93 == +145
Warding failed!
Metadi is pulled into the void and disappears! He returns almost
instantly, looking confused.

The starry void envelops Vilorcasdra!
CS: +463 – TD: +341 + CvA: -21 + d100: +81 == +182
Warding failed!
Vilorcasdra is pulled into the void and disappears! She returns
almost instantly, looking confused.
Nouvard looks dizzy and falls to the ground!
Seomanthe reels and turns green.
Sovine reels and turns green.
Arpelli reels and turns green.
Vilorcasdra reels and turns green.
Godefroy falls flat on the ground!
Greganth falls flat on the ground!
Benkueh falls flat on the ground!
Arnylon reels and turns green.
Taverkin falls flat on the ground!
Hoy falls flat on the ground!
Dreuntar stares off into the air looking a bit pale.
Mylenna looks dizzy and falls to the ground!
Zelas looks dizzy and falls to the ground!
Metadi falls flat on the ground!
Syberus falls flat on the ground!
Seomanthe moans.

Karibeth hisses.

Ziunya appears to focus inward as she raises a hand and murmurs quietly…

You say, “Ziunya!”

Ziunya gestures at Metadi.
A crackling whip of energy lashes out at Metadi!
Starburst patterns of pale blue light sweep forward from Metadi’s
chest and infuses the deep blue glow with its energy.
CS: +463 – TD: +415 + CvA: -21 + d100: +17 == +44
Warded off!
The residual psychic energy from the attack disperses.

[Roll result: 42 (open d100: 72)]
Olgretien hurls himself at Ziunya and connects!
Olgretien fails to bring Ziunya down, but manages to scramble back to his feet.

You have an unpleasant sense of deja vu.

Ziunya gestures at Metadi.
Metadi seems to slow down and become a bit less nimble.
A hazy film coats Metadi.

Taverkin stands up.
Godefroy stands up.
Dreuntar gestures at Ziunya.
The ground beneath Ziunya begins to boil violently!
Ziunya dodges out of the way!
The ground then quickly cools.
Metadi scowls at Ziunya.
Taverkin removes some aloeas stem from in his purple robe.
Metadi stands up.
Syberus traces a sign that contorts in the air while he forcefully
incants a dark invocation…
Syberus gestures at Ziunya.
A void rips open in the area, directly above Ziunya!
Blood begins to gush from Ziunya’s nose and ears!
+35 Hits.
Ziunya is stunned!

Everything in the room seemed to stay in place. The void disappears
without further incident.

Translucent streams of mana cascade across Seomanthe’s form as she
lets loose with a rallying cry!
Hoy rises smoothly to his feet!
Syberus rises smoothly to his feet!
Benkueh rises smoothly to his feet!
Greganth rises smoothly to his feet!
Zelas rises smoothly to his feet!
Nouvard rises smoothly to his feet!
Mylenna rises smoothly to her feet!

[Roll result: 99 (open d100: 8)]
Metadi hurls himself at Ziunya and connects!
Metadi fails to bring Ziunya down, but manages to scramble back to his feet.

[Roll result: 168 (open d100: 74)]
Vilorcasdra feints to the right, Ziunya buys the ruse and twists
awkwardly to block the blow that never came!

Olgretien looks determined and focused.
In an awe inspiring display of combat mastery, Olgretien engages
Ziunya in a furious dance macabre, spiralling into a blur of strikes
and ripostes!
Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at Ziunya!
Ziunya stumbles dazedly, somehow managing to evade the attack!
Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at Ziunya!
AS: +545 vs DS: +556 with AvD: +40 + d100 roll: +39 = +68
A clean miss.
Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at Ziunya!
AS: +545 vs DS: +556 with AvD: +40 + d100 roll: +57 = +86
A clean miss.

Godefroy channels at Ziunya.
Nothing happens.

Greganth swings a white laen broadsword at Ziunya!
AS: +545 vs DS: +535 with AvD: +29 + d100 roll: +15 = +54
A clean miss.

Seomanthe swings a seething grey thunderhead khopesh at Ziunya!
AS: +473 vs DS: +514 with AvD: +31 + d100 roll: +73 = +63
A clean miss.

Syberus traces a sign that contorts in the air while he forcefully
incants a dark invocation…
Syberus gestures at Ziunya.
A void rips open in the area, directly above Ziunya!
Blood begins to gush from Ziunya’s nose and ears!
+39 Hits.

Everything in the room seemed to stay in place. The void disappears
without further incident.

Syberus gestures at Ziunya.
A void rips open in the area, directly above Ziunya!
Massive decompression causes Ziunya’s abdomen to balloon and burst!

* Ziunya drops dead at your feet!

A series of aquamarine lines suddenly appear on Ziunya’s face, quickly
racing towards the center of her forehead before detatching and
dissipating in the air.
Ziunya no longer bristles with energy.
Ziunya takes a deep breath, blinking a couple of times before resuming
a calm expression.
The tension in Ziunya’s skin eases and you notice that her complexion
returns to normal.
Ziunya just arrived. Wait, wasn’t she here already?
The bright luminescence fades from around Ziunya.
The tingling sensation and sense of security leaves Ziunya.
Ziunya appears somehow different.
Ziunya seems a bit less imposing.
The layer of stone surrounding Ziunya crumbles away.
The glowing specks of energy surrounding Ziunya suddenly shoot off in
all directions, then quickly fade away.
Ziunya glances around, looking a bit less confident.
The brilliant luminescence fades from around Ziunya.
The powerful look leaves Ziunya.
The silvery luminescence fades from around Ziunya.
The very powerful look leaves Ziunya.
The white light leaves Ziunya.
Ziunya looks around as if waking up from a dream.
The thick plates of bone around Ziunya’s forearms begin to crack, then
shatter into a fine white dust.
The deep blue glow leaves Ziunya.
The scales covering Ziunya’s hands turn brittle and flake away.
Ziunya becomes unbalanced for a second, then recovers.
Ziunya appears to lose some internal strength.
The light blue glow leaves Ziunya.
The dull golden nimbus fades from around Ziunya.
Darkness punctuated by a constellation of starry pinpoints wells up
around Ziunya and splinters away with a sound like shattering crystal.

Everything in the room seemed to stay in place. The void disappears
without further incident.

* Ziunya just bit the dust!

Zelas lets out a cheer!

Taverkin squeakily exclaims, “Well done, friends!”

Metadi grabs you and drags you south.

[Lake of Fear, South Dock]
Greying planks sit just above the surface of the water, meeting boats
arriving from across the way and providing access to the rocky
shoreline. Under the cloak of evening, the lake resembles a pool of
onyx and reflects the night sky in its calm depths. Though still now,
there is an eeriness about this place that alludes to a superficial
deception. Over a jumble of stones lies the start of a trodden dirt
path that curves southward. You also see an inky black shadow
champion, an inky black shadow champion, an inky black shadow
champion, an inky black shadow champion, an inky black shadow
champion, an inky black shadow champion, an inky black shadow
champion, an inky black shadow champion, an inky black shadow
champion, an inky black shadow champion, an inky black shadow
champion, an inky black shadow champion, a turquoise stone, a white
opal, a massive bearded white tiger, a pale yellow heliodor and an
engraved brass chest.
Also here: Dreuntar, Hoy, Arnylon, Taverkin, Lord Syberus, Karibeth,
Olgretien, Greganth, Arpelli, Sovine, Seomanthe, Squire Legionnaire
Nouvard, Mylenna, Godefroy, High Lady Vilorcasdra, Sir Metadi, Master
Benkueh
Obvious paths: north, south

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Sovine!
AS: +475 vs DS: +633 with AvD: +38 + d100 roll: +43 = -77
A clean miss.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Syberus!
Amazingly, Syberus manages to block the attack with his shield!

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Hoy!
Hoy gracefully avoids the attack!

Seomanthe lets out a yelp!

Benkueh attempts to jab an inky black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 579 = 1.466 * MM: 93 + d100: 87 = 223
… and hit for 23 points of damage!
Strong hit to the chest!
Tendrils of mist explode as the strike passes right through.

Benkueh quickly pivots away and follows up with a jab against an inky
black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 550 = 1.543 * MM: 89 + d100: 68 = 205
… and hit for 5 points of damage!
Large gash to the right arm seals as strike passes through.

Godefroy chants a reverent litany and clasps his hands while tightly
focusing his thoughts…
Godefroy gestures at an inky black shadow champion.
Godefroy speaks a rolling, powerful invocation in an unknown language.
CS: +485 – TD: +421 + CvA: -19 + d100: +27 == +72
Warded off!
An inky black shadow champion does not react.
CS: +485 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + d100: +73 == +133
Warding failed!
An inky black shadow champion does not react.
CS: +485 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + d100: +73 == +133
Warding failed!
An inky black shadow champion does not react.
CS: +485 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + d100: +52 == +112
Warding failed!
An inky black shadow champion does not react.
CS: +485 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + d100: +83 == +143
Warding failed!
An inky black shadow champion does not react.
CS: +485 – TD: +397 + CvA: -19 + d100: +93 == +162
Warding failed!
An inky black shadow champion freezes, overwhelmed by the strength of
the holy incantation.
CS: +485 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + d100: +27 == +87
Warded off!
An inky black shadow champion does not react.
CS: +485 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + d100: +19 == +79
Warded off!
An inky black shadow champion does not react.
CS: +485 – TD: +418 + CvA: -19 + d100: +58 == +106
Warding failed!
An inky black shadow champion does not react.

Taverkin gasps.

Hoy gestures while summoning the spirits of nature to his aid…
Hoy gestures at an inky black shadow champion.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow champion! Several of the thorns jab into the
champion!
… hits for 18 points of damage!
… 25 points of damage!
Quick strike to the left leg!
The shadow champion makes no bones about it.
… hits for 28 points of damage!
… 30 points of damage!
Strong assault amputates the leg at the knee.
It floats in the air a moment before drifting back into place!
… hits for 9 points of damage!
… 25 points of damage!
Quick strike to the right leg!
The shadow champion makes no bones about it.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Mylenna!
AS: +470 vs DS: +427 with AvD: +38 + d100 roll: +84 = +165
… and hits for 33 points of damage!
Deft swing strikes Mylenna’s neck.
Maybe not fatal but it’s sure distracting.
She is stunned!

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Greganth!
AS: +455 vs DS: +348 with AvD: +40 + d100 roll: +55 = +202
… and hits for 19 points of damage!
Quick slash to Greganth’s upper right arm!
Just a nick.

Greganth swings a white laen broadsword at an inky black shadow champion!
At the last moment, the shadow champion parries the blow with his falx!

Olgretien looks determined and focused.
In a breathtaking display of agility and combat mastery, Olgretien
whirls in a fury of unrelenting strikes and ripostes!
Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at an inky black
shadow champion!
The shadow champion evades the attack by a hair!
Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at an inky black
shadow champion!
A hit!
A strong blow bursts the right calf open in a spray of vapor.
New muscle erupts from the middle of the wound, consuming the injured tissue.
Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at an inky black
shadow champion!
A hit!
Large gash to the left arm seals as strike passes through.
Just as Olgretien moves to attack, blue mist seeps out of an inky
black shadow champion’s skin and she vanishes into the air! A moment
later, the blue haze reforms into the champion.
Olgretien swings a wood-hilted vultite greatsword at an inky black
shadow champion!
The shadow champion evades the attack by a hair!

Benkueh attempts to jab an inky black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 539 = 1.575 * MM: 105 + d100: 79 = 244
… and hit for 24 points of damage!
Attack whistles right through the lower back encountering little resistance!

Benkueh quickly pivots away and follows up with a jab against an inky
black shadow champion!
Pearly light flares up suddenly from within Benkueh!
UAF: 864 vs UDF: 550 = 1.570 * MM: 75 + d100: 75 = 192
… and hit for 13 points of damage!
Swift strike would have hit more than an ear, if only it were there.

** Benkueh’s studded leather gloves spray forth a shower of pure water! **

… 5 points of damage!
Quick blow to the head.
Swirls of vapor dance around the shadow champion’s head.

Benkueh quickly pivots again and follows up with another jab against
an inky black shadow champion!
Just as Benkueh moves to attack, blue mist seeps out of an inky black
shadow champion’s skin and she vanishes into the air! A moment later,
the blue haze reforms into the champion.

Arpelli changes her tune, adding a new element to her song…
Arpelli skillfully begins to weave another verse into her harmony.
Arpelli begins to sing a sibilant melody. Suddenly, mirror images of
Arpelli appear in the area, making it difficult to tell which is real
and which are the illusions.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Godefroy!
AS: +455 vs DS: +590 with AvD: +48 + d100 roll: +28 = -59
A clean miss.
An inky black shadow champion plunges a clawed fist into your chest,
removing your heart! The champion squeezes the heart in his fist,
dripping blood across your face before taking a bite and discarding
the ruined organ.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Benkueh!
Benkueh dodges just in the nick of time!

An inky black shadow champion swings a black steel claidhmore at Hoy!
AS: +460 vs DS: +714 with AvD: +32 + d100 roll: +80 = -142
A clean miss.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Metadi!
AS: +455 vs DS: +397 with AvD: +29 + d100 roll: +29 = +116
… and hits for 8 points of damage!
Glancing blow to Metadi’s right leg!

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Hoy!
AS: +455 vs DS: +645 with AvD: +42 + d100 roll: +41 = -107
A clean miss.

Syberus traces a sign that contorts in the air while he forcefully
incants a dark invocation…
Syberus channels at an inky black shadow champion.
CS: +510 – TD: +432 + CvA: -19 + d100: +100 == +159
Warding failed!
A dull grey beam snakes out toward the shadow champion!
… 66 points of damage!
… 10 points of damage!
Flashy attack passes through the side of the neck.
Ethereal fluids spray forth and quickly vanish into vapor!
… 12 points of damage!
Various bits of the shadow champion melt away!

Dreuntar intones a phrase of elemental power while raising his hands…
Dreuntar gestures at an inky black shadow champion.
Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +310 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +25 = +270
… and hits for 124 points of damage!
Brutal assault cuts a swath through the torso!
Fortunately for the shadow champion, it doesn’t need lungs.
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +43 = +291
… and hits for 103 points of damage!
Smash to the chest!
Good thing there were no ribs there to shatter.

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +4 = +252
… and hits for 86 points of damage!
Hard strike shatters arm into vapor.
The arm reforms before your eyes!

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +32 = +280
… and hits for 108 points of damage!
Strong blow to the head!
The shadow champion enjoys the breeze.

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +85 = +333
… and hits for 116 points of damage!
Strong smash to the right hand!
The shadow champion quails and sinks momentarily as its right hand
reforms before your eyes.

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +248 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +57 = +364
… and hits for 144 points of damage!
Painful attack flays the leg from thigh to calf.
New skin lies, snakelike, beneath the old.

Pearly light flares up suddenly from within Dreuntar!
Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +525 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +33 = +296
… and hits for 100 points of damage!
Strong attack rips through the neck!
To your horror, the shadow champion’s substance flows around the
wound without leaving a trace!

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +28 = +276
… and hits for 96 points of damage!
Strike swipes cleanly through the abdomen, but seals up a moment later!

Pearly light flares up suddenly from within Dreuntar!
Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +525 vs DS: +324 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +27 = +273
… and hits for 120 points of damage!
Hard blast to the side of the right eye.
Strike carries right on through the bridge of the nose,
the other eye, and the rest of the head!

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +12 = +260
… and hits for 109 points of damage!
Massive blow obliterates the right knee.
The shadow champion falters as a sickly light flows freely down its leg.

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +74 = +322
… and hits for 141 points of damage!
Hard blast to the side of the right eye.
Strike carries right on through the bridge of the nose,
the other eye, and the rest of the head!

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +318 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +29 = +266
… and hits for 97 points of damage!
Strong assault amputates the leg at the knee.
It floats in the air a moment before drifting back into place!

Hoy gestures while summoning the spirits of nature to his aid…
Hoy gestures at an inky black shadow champion.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow champion! Several of the thorns jab into the
champion!
… hits for 23 points of damage!
… 35 points of damage!
Painful attack flays the leg from thigh to calf.
New skin lies, snakelike, beneath the old.
… hits for 16 points of damage!
… 35 points of damage!
Painful attack flays the leg from thigh to calf.
New skin lies, snakelike, beneath the old.
… hits for 11 points of damage!
… 25 points of damage!
Quick strike to the right leg!
The shadow champion makes no bones about it.
… hits for 14 points of damage!
… 30 points of damage!
Strong assault amputates the leg at the knee.
It floats in the air a moment before drifting back into place!

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Sovine!
AS: +465 vs DS: +633 with AvD: +38 + d100 roll: +83 = -47
A clean miss.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Arpelli!
AS: +457 vs DS: +439 with AvD: +44 + d100 roll: +89 = +151
… and hits for 52 points of damage!
Skull cracks in several places.
She is stunned!

Karibeth gestures while summoning the spirits of nature to her aid…
Karibeth gestures at an inky black shadow champion.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow champion! Several of the thorns jab into the
champion!
… hits for 33 points of damage!
… 30 points of damage!
Strong assault amputates the leg at the knee.
It floats in the air a moment before drifting back into place!
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.

Godefroy channels at an inky black shadow champion.
Particles of dust and soot rise from the ground at Godefroy’s feet as
he releases a pulsating, platinum ripple of energy toward an inky
black shadow champion!
CS: +485 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + d100: +32 == +92
Warded off!
Benkueh attempts to jab an inky black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 480 = 1.768 * MM: 92 + d100: 54 = 216
… and hit for 14 points of damage!
Smash to the chest!
Good thing there were no ribs there to shatter.

** Benkueh’s studded leather gloves spray forth a shower of pure water! **

… 5 points of damage!
Weak blow leaves a brief imprint on the shadow champion’s chest!

Benkueh quickly pivots away and follows up with a jab against an inky
black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 467 = 1.817 * MM: 125 + d100: 2 = 229
… and hit for 12 points of damage!
Powerful hit to the shadow champion’s neck leaves trails of vapor in its wake!
Greganth swings a white laen broadsword at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +535 vs DS: +293 with AvD: +30 + d100 roll: +6 = +278
… and hits for 37 points of damage!
Weak blow leaves a brief imprint on the shadow champion’s chest!

Hoy gestures while summoning the spirits of nature to his aid…
Hoy gestures at an inky black shadow champion.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow champion! Several of the thorns jab into the
champion!
… hits for 18 points of damage!
… 35 points of damage!
Painful attack flays the leg from thigh to calf.
New skin lies, snakelike, beneath the old.
… hits for 27 points of damage!
… 30 points of damage!
Strong assault amputates the leg at the knee.
It floats in the air a moment before drifting back into place!
… hits for 24 points of damage!
… 35 points of damage!
Painful attack flays the leg from thigh to calf.
New skin lies, snakelike, beneath the old.
… hits for 27 points of damage!
… 35 points of damage!
Painful attack flays the leg from thigh to calf.
New skin lies, snakelike, beneath the old.
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.

Metadi attempts to kick an inky black shadow champion!
UAF: 630 vs UDF: 467 = 1.349 * MM: 110 + d100: 53 = 201
… and hit for 61 points of damage!
Swift strike would have hit more than an ear, if only it were there.
Syberus traces a sign that contorts in the air while he forcefully
incants a dark invocation…
Syberus channels at an inky black shadow champion.
CS: +510 – TD: +408 + CvA: -19 + d100: +24 == +107
Warding failed!
A dull grey beam snakes out toward the shadow champion!
… 27 points of damage!
… 5 points of damage!
A weak slap on the wrist.
That’s not going to reform a soul.
… 4 points of damage!
Various bits of the shadow champion melt away!
A copper-flecked bloodjewel on Hoy’s forehead flares into fiery red
flames, causing the air around Hoy to waver.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Syberus!
AS: +445 vs DS: +708 with AvD: +44 + d100 roll: +39 = -180
A clean miss.

Benkueh attempts to jab an inky black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 457 = 1.857 * MM: 130 + d100: 10 = 251
… and hit for 24 points of damage!
Strong hit to the chest!
Tendrils of mist explode as the strike passes right through.

Benkueh quickly pivots away and follows up with a jab against an inky
black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 484 = 1.754 * MM: 95 + d100: 93 = 259
… and hit for 7 points of damage!
Large gash to the left arm seals as strike passes through.

Dreuntar intones a phrase of elemental power while raising his hands…
Dreuntar gestures at an inky black shadow champion.
Just as Dreuntar moves to attack, blue mist seeps out of an inky black
shadow champion’s skin and she vanishes into the air! A moment later,
the blue haze reforms into the champion.

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +297 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +88 = +346
… and hits for 132 points of damage!
Right arm ripped in half at elbow!
The fallen arm evaporates as a new one materializes.

Just as Dreuntar moves to attack, blue mist seeps out of an inky black
shadow champion’s skin and he vanishes into the air! A moment later,
the blue haze reforms into the champion.

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +30 = +278
… and hits for 127 points of damage!
Strong attack separates head from shoulders.
Head disappears in the breeze as a new one forms on the shadow
champion’s shoulders!

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +9 = +257
… and hits for 98 points of damage!
Strong strike splits the belly open, revealing ghostly organs.
Haggis anyone?

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +312 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +64 = +307
… and hits for 140 points of damage!
Brutal assault cuts a swath through the torso!
Fortunately for the shadow champion, it doesn’t need lungs.

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +297 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +77 = +335
… and hits for 152 points of damage!
Body swirls violently from a strong hit to the back.
Neat effect!

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +297 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +42 = +300
… and hits for 132 points of damage!
Huge strike vaporizes the left thigh.
The shadow champion convulses, falling inward upon itself while the
leg mends.

Dreuntar hurls a powerful lightning bolt at an inky black shadow champion!
AS: +510 vs DS: +324 with AvD: +45 + d100 roll: +39 = +270
… and hits for 94 points of damage!
Hard strike shatters arm into vapor.
The arm reforms before your eyes!

The shadow champion glances once over her shoulder, then crouches down
and steps into the ground, leaving curling tendrils of blue mist in
her wake.
An inky black shadow champion wails in exquisite agony!

Syberus traces a sign that contorts in the air while he forcefully
incants a dark invocation…
Syberus channels at an inky black shadow champion.
CS: +510 – TD: +408 + CvA: -19 + d100: +28 == +111
Warding failed!
A dull grey beam snakes out toward the shadow champion!
… 28 points of damage!
… 10 points of damage!
Weak attack slips silently through the shadow champion’s fingers,
stirring the breeze.
… 9 points of damage!
Various bits of the shadow champion melt away!

Hoy gestures while summoning the spirits of nature to his aid…
Hoy gestures at an inky black shadow champion.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow champion! Several of the thorns jab into the
champion!
… hits for 26 points of damage!
… 30 points of damage!
Strong assault amputates the leg at the knee.
It floats in the air a moment before drifting back into place!
… hits for 31 points of damage!
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.
The champion’s paralyzed body slackens in the grip of death.
Godefroy chants a reverent litany and clasps his hands while tightly
focusing his thoughts…
Godefroy gestures at an inky black shadow champion.
An aura of divine golden light blazes into existence around Godefroy.
Karibeth attempts to jab an inky black shadow champion!
Just as Karibeth moves to attack, blue mist seeps out of an inky black
shadow champion’s skin and he vanishes into the air! A moment later,
the blue haze reforms into the champion.

The ground shudders and trembles underfoot.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Mylenna!
AS: +445 vs DS: +427 with AvD: +38 + d100 roll: +57 = +113
… and hits for 10 points of damage!
Thumped Mylenna’s chest.

An inky black shadow champion swings a black steel claidhmore at Taverkin!
AS: +440 vs DS: +585 with AvD: +34 + d100 roll: +80 = -31
A clean miss.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Metadi!
AS: +435 vs DS: +397 with AvD: +29 + d100 roll: +87 = +154
… and hits for 12 points of damage!
Weak slash across chest!
Slightly less painful than heartburn.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Hoy!
AS: +445 vs DS: +714 with AvD: +42 + d100 roll: +84 = -143
A clean miss.

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Greganth!
AS: +455 vs DS: +337 with AvD: +40 + d100 roll: +82 = +240
… and hits for 37 points of damage!
Internal organs bruised.
He is stunned!

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Arpelli!
AS: +447 vs DS: +321 with AvD: +44 + d100 roll: +77 = +247
… and hits for 122 points of damage!
Hard slash to Arpelli’s side opens her spleen!

* Arpelli drops dead at your feet!

An inky black shadow champion howls in delight, hefting his blackened
falx into the air!

* Arpelli just bit the dust!

Benkueh attempts to jab an inky black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 474 = 1.791 * MM: 100 + d100: 10 = 189
… and hit for 4 points of damage!
Ineffectual strike knocks a wisp of ether from the shadow champion’s left arm.

Benkueh quickly pivots away and follows up with a jab against an inky
black shadow champion!
Just as Benkueh moves to attack, blue mist seeps out of an inky black
shadow champion’s skin and he vanishes into the air! A moment later,
the blue haze reforms into the champion.

Syberus traces a sign that contorts in the air while he forcefully
incants a dark invocation…
Sovine gestures while summoning the spirits of nature to his aid…
Sovine gestures at an inky black shadow champion.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow champion! Several of the thorns jab into the
champion!
… hits for 7 points of damage!
… 5 points of damage!
Right ankle stung!
The shadow champion stamps in silent annoyance.
… hits for 11 points of damage!
… 5 points of damage!
Right ankle stung!
The shadow champion stamps in silent annoyance.

Syberus channels at an inky black shadow champion.
CS: +510 – TD: +417 + CvA: -19 + d100: +85 == +159
Warding failed!
A dull grey beam snakes out toward the shadow champion!
… 69 points of damage!
… 20 points of damage!
Quick strike connects with the shadow champion’s lower back!
Luckily there was nothing vital there.
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.
Godefroy chants a reverent orison and lightly clasps his gold fealty
chain. A rush of aureate light flows out of his chain, attaching
itself to him like a second skin of golden motes.

Hoy gestures while summoning the spirits of nature to his aid…
Hoy gestures at an inky black shadow champion.

Dozens of long thorns suddenly grow out from the ground underneath an
inky black shadow champion! Several of the thorns jab into the
champion!
… hits for 9 points of damage!
… 30 points of damage!
A fine strike pins the right leg for an instant.
The shadow champion looks miffed.
… hits for 33 points of damage!
… 25 points of damage!
A strong blow bursts the right calf open in a spray of vapor.
New muscle erupts from the middle of the wound, consuming the injured tissue.
… hits for 13 points of damage!
… 30 points of damage!
A fine strike pins the right leg for an instant.
The shadow champion looks miffed.
Growling lowly, the shadow champion falls to one knee, then collapses
to the ground.

Taverkin gasps.

Seomanthe wails!

Arnylon gestures while calling upon the lesser spirits for aid…

The ground shakes powerfully directly underneath an inky black shadow
champion as a beam of golden light lances away from Godefroy to
transfix the champion.
CS: +509 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + 50 + d50: +1 == +135
Warding failed!
… and hits for 25 points of damage!

… 10 points of damage!
Hard strike connects with the shadow champion’s back!
A thin arc of mist spews forth, evaporating quickly.

The ground shakes powerfully directly underneath an inky black shadow
champion as a beam of golden light lances away from Godefroy to
transfix the champion.
CS: +509 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + 50 + d50: +39 == +173
Warding failed!
… and hits for 47 points of damage!

… 20 points of damage!
Strike swipes cleanly through the abdomen, but seals up a moment later!

The ground shakes powerfully directly underneath an inky black shadow
champion as a beam of golden light lances away from Godefroy to
transfix the champion.
CS: +509 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + 50 + d50: +13 == +147
Warding failed!
… and hits for 32 points of damage!

… 20 points of damage!
A fine strike pins the right leg for an instant.
The shadow champion looks miffed.

The ground shakes powerfully directly underneath an inky black shadow
champion as a beam of golden light lances away from Godefroy to
transfix the champion.
CS: +509 – TD: +406 + CvA: -19 + 50 + d50: +17 == +151
Warding failed!
… and hits for 34 points of damage!

… 15 points of damage!
A strong blow bursts the right calf open in a spray of vapor.
New muscle erupts from the middle of the wound, consuming the injured tissue.

The ground shakes powerfully directly underneath an inky black shadow
champion as a beam of golden light lances away from Godefroy to
transfix the champion.
CS: +509 – TD: +409 + CvA: -19 + 50 + d50: +34 == +165
Warding failed!
… and hits for 43 points of damage!

… 25 points of damage!

Metadi reaches down and tenderly cradles Arpelli’s lifeless hand in his.

Nouvard confidently calls upon his patron as he motions forcefully…
Nouvard gestures.
Nouvard briefly closes his eyes, and a brilliant golden crown haloes
his head. A faint white light builds up and emanates from Nouvard’s
hand before it takes the shape of an ethereal sceptre, and Nouvard
thrusts it forward!
A blast of white energy bursts from the tip of the ethereal sceptre,
striking an inky black shadow champion!
CS: +214 – TD: +371 + CvA: -19 + d100: +67 == -109
Warded off!
A blast of white energy bursts from the tip of the ethereal sceptre,
striking an inky black shadow champion!
CS: +214 – TD: +371 + CvA: -19 + d100: +47 == -129
Warded off!
A blast of white energy bursts from the tip of the ethereal sceptre,
striking an inky black shadow champion!
CS: +214 – TD: +371 + CvA: -19 + d100: +55 == -121
Warded off!
A blast of white energy bursts from the tip of the ethereal sceptre,
striking an inky black shadow champion!
CS: +214 – TD: +371 + CvA: -19 + d100: +72 == -104
Warded off!

The ethereal sceptre in Nouvard’s hand splinters into a crackle of energy.

Benkueh attempts to jab an inky black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 477 = 1.779 * MM: 109 + d100: 60 = 254
… and hit for 9 points of damage!
Hard blow to the left hand sends fingers flying.
Alas, they reform soundlessly from thin air.

Benkueh quickly pivots away and follows up with a jab against an inky
black shadow champion!
UAF: 849 vs UDF: 516 = 1.645 * MM: 99 + d100: 58 = 220
… and hit for 14 points of damage!
Strike swipes cleanly through the abdomen, but seals up a moment later!

An inky black shadow champion swings a blackened falx at Metadi!
AS: +437 vs DS: +397 with AvD: +29 + d100 roll: +14 = +83
A clean miss.

Your surroundings blur into a white fog . . .

[Voln Forecourt]
Several cast iron park benches back against a swiftly moving stream
that reflects the moonlight as it flows along one side of the
courtyard. A cobbled walkway extends through the courtyard’s center
and continues over a small bridge which spans the moat, connecting the
forecourt to the gated entryway of a large fortress. Opposite the
flowing water lies a narrow knot garden with a meadow beyond. You
also see the Snowrok disk, a pile of tanned leather boots, a pile of
tanned leather gloves, a plain steel chest, a polished granite block
with some stuff on it and a robed guard.
Also here: Sir Metadi, High Lady Vilorcasdra, Godefroy, Mylenna,
Squire Legionnaire Nouvard, Seomanthe, Sovine, the body of Arpelli who
is lying down, Greganth, Olgretien, Karibeth, Lord Syberus, Taverkin,
Arnylon, Hoy, Dreuntar, Snowrok, Lord Salltos who is kneeling, Karuna,
Lady Erosophe
Obvious paths: south

You see a wave of energy emanate from Seomanthe toward Arpelli. It
coalesces around her body and then seeps in, leaving a glow around the
body.

Snowrok says, “Ziyuna is dead.”

Aurla softly says, “Im here.”

Metadi says, “She’ll nae stay dead.”

Aurla softly says, “I couldnt gate to you.”

Zelas just arrived.

Syberus says, “Then I’ll kill her again.”

Metadi asks, “How do we get intae her shadow tae kill her?”

You say, “Kai protects me.”

Focusing on the clenched fist symbol, the iridescent glow radiating
from it begins to dim. The aura of the holy magic pulses a few times
before completely fading away, releasing the diamond from the symbol’s
bezel setting. The diamond falls to the ground by your corpse.

Arnylon picks up an uncut diamond.

Arnylon gingerly cracks and waves the uncut diamond over your body and
a mixture of oil and balsam trickles out of the diamond, coating you
with a cobalt blue liquid.

Speaking to you, Arnylon asks, “Shall I aid you?”

You say, “Aye, please.”

Arnylon intones a mystical orison, petitioning for the aid of his patron.

Arnylon gestures at you.
A silvery translucent thread extends from Arnylon encompassing you.
You sense the comfort of salvation, and you hear something peculiar,
but the sound is too faint to be identified.

Metadi says, “We need tae find out how tae take them down.”

Speaking to Arpelli, you say, “I am sorry Lady Arpelli.”

Speaking to you, the ghostly voice of Arpelli says, “It’s okay… I am
at least amongst friends. I will be up and walking in no time.”

Arnylon gestures at you.
Moisture beads upon your skin as Arnylon’s eyes cloud over with the
darkness of a rising storm. Power builds upon the air, causing the
dead hair upon your arms to rise, and as Arnylon utters the last words
of his spell you hear the rumble of thunder in his voice. The rolling
sound ripples upon the air and collides with your chest an instant
before a brilliant flash suffuses you with raw spiritual energy.

Speaking to you, Arnylon says, “Welcome back. May your next death be
full of honor and glory or at least amusing to those around you.”

Metadi says, “Okay, one more minute tae heal up and gain mana.”

You feel suddenly tired and lie down for a nap.

You dreamily say, “I will rest and rejoin you.”

High Lady Sillumina just arrived.

Sillumina joins Metadi’s group.

Godefroy says, “In the name of Divine Koar, arise.”

Godefroy gestures at Arpelli.
With each passing moment during Godefroy’s slow chant, his eyes
flutter rhythmically. He folds his right arm and rests his chin upon
his hand, then gazes down at the lifeless corpse of Arpelli, as if
contemplating her existence. Blinking once, Godefroy thrusts his hand
over Arpelli, and crackling raw power flows from Godefroy’s fingertips
into Arpelli.
Arpelli’s body suddenly grows darker.

You sense the link to Arnylon’s soul slip peacefully away.

You wake up from your sleep.

Speaking squeakily to Sillumina, Taverkin exclaims, “Hello, me friend!”

Speaking to Taverkin, Sillumina says, “Hello Tav.”

You say, “I can almost continue Metadi.”

Metadi says, “Oh, if ye foks want tae fight while weakened from
raising, feel free.”

You stand back up.

Godefroy says, “I’m no weaker than you, mate.”

You say, “I erred in my pursuit of Vilthulko.”

You mumble something under your breath.

Godefroy says, “I imagine they will find us, no matter.”

Snowrok says, “She has Ben’.”

Metadi asks, “Any location?”

Taverkin squeakily exclaims, “He’s through there!”

Snowrok says, “That witch has Benkueh.”

Taverkin squeakily exclaims, “Go quickly! Help him!”

Metadi exclaims, “Moving!”

Metadi’s group goes through a shifting portal.

[Lake of Fear, South Dock]
Greying planks sit just above the surface of the water, meeting boats
arriving from across the way and providing access to the rocky
shoreline. Under the cloak of evening, the lake resembles a pool of
onyx and reflects the night sky in its calm depths. Though still now,
there is an eeriness about this place that alludes to a superficial
deception. Over a jumble of stones lies the start of a trodden dirt
path that curves southward. You also see a shifting portal, a
long-tailed small bat that is flying around, a badly damaged steel
chest, a blackened falx, a blackened falx, a rose-marrow potion, a
silvery moonstone, a turquoise stone, a white opal, a massive bearded
white tiger, a pale yellow heliodor and an engraved brass chest.
Also here: Sir Metadi, Dreuntar, Hoy, Arnylon, Lord Syberus, Karibeth,
Olgretien, Greganth, Sovine, Seomanthe, Godefroy, High Lady
Vilorcasdra, Mylenna, Grand Lady Aurla, Zelas, High Lady Sillumina,
Taverkin, Ziunya, a stunned Master Benkueh who is lying down
Obvious paths: north, south

The shifting portal shimmers slightly, the haze within its glowing
outline growing opaque as it contracts to a pinpoint of blue-grey mist
and vanishes.

Benkueh stands up.

[Roll result: 131 (open d100: 21)]
Metadi feints to the left, Ziunya buys the ruse and twists awkwardly
to block the blow that never came!

A churning spectral aura surrounds you.

Vilorcasdra opens her posture and tilts a katana in front of herself
with an aggressive look.

Benkueh attempts to jab Ziunya!
UAF: 1213 vs UDF: 877 = 1.383 * MM: 39 + d100: 4 = 57
A close miss!

[Roll result: 253 (open d100: 168)]
Metadi hurls himself at Ziunya and connects!
Metadi hammers Ziunya to the ground. 21 hits! Metadi quickly jumps
to his feet.

Metadi exclaims, “Take her!”

Benkueh attempts to jab Ziunya!
UAF: 1213 vs UDF: 768 = 1.579 * MM: 81 + d100: 16 = 143
A layer of shifting stone absorbs 2 points of damage!
… and hit for 6 points of damage!
Double jab to upper and lower back momentarily unbalances her.

Vilorcasdra looks determined and focused.
In an awe inspiring display of combat mastery, Vilorcasdra engages
Ziunya in a furious dance macabre, spiralling into a blur of strikes
and ripostes!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Ziunya!
Ziunya awkwardly scrambles along the ground to avoid the attack!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Ziunya!
A hit!
Weak slash to Ziunya’s lower back!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Ziunya!
Rolling hurriedly, Ziunya dodges the attack!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Ziunya!
Rolling hurriedly, Ziunya dodges the attack!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Ziunya!
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Ziunya!
AS: +615 vs DS: +704 with AvD: +33 + d100 roll: +53 = -3
A clean miss.
You have an unpleasant sense of deja vu.
Vilorcasdra swings a wyvern-hilted long veil iron katana at Ziunya!
A hit!
Downward slash across Ziunya’s left thigh!
Gouges bone!
She is stunned!

Metadi looks determined and focused.
In an awe inspiring display of combat mastery, Metadi engages Ziunya
in a furious dance macabre, spiralling into a blur of strikes and
ripostes!
Metadi swings a perfect rolaren-capped sledgehammer at Ziunya!
A hit!
Smack to the eye bursts blood vessels.
Metadi swings a perfect rolaren-capped sledgehammer at Ziunya!
Staggering like a punch-drunk brawler, Ziunya dodges the attack!
Metadi swings a perfect rolaren-capped sledgehammer at Ziunya!
A hit!
Blow cracks a rib and punctures a lung.
Breathing becomes a challenge.

* Ziunya drops dead at your feet!

* Ziunya just bit the dust!

Taverkin lets out a cheer!

Speaking to Benkueh, Metadi says, “We really do need tae ken that.”

You say, “We need to get to their shifted plane.”

Taverkin squeakily asks, “We kin go to the shadows?”

Taverkin shivers.

Taverkin hiccups!

Speaking to Taverkin, you say, “We must.”

Benkueh quietly says, “I need to return to the monastery.”

Taverkin squeakily says, “But…”

Master Benkueh just limped south, favoring his left leg.

Taverkin squeakily says, “Is all dark in there.”

Sir Metadi’s group just went southeast.
[Fearling Pass, Rocky Trail]
Meadowlike fields awash with wildflowers stretch in all directions, a
symphony of crickets and locusts filling the air with their song.
Lakebed rocks occasionally line the trail, an ancient effort to keep
the encroaching weeds from overtaking the pass. You also see a
long-tailed small bat that is flying around, a shadowy apparition, a
blackened flail, a shard of rainbow quartz and a deep purple amethyst.
Also here: Taverkin, High Lady Sillumina, Zelas, Grand Lady Aurla,
Mylenna, High Lady Vilorcasdra, Godefroy, Seomanthe, Sovine, Greganth,
Olgretien, Karibeth, Lord Syberus, Arnylon, Hoy, Dreuntar, Sir Metadi,
Master Benkueh
Obvious paths: east, southeast, northwest

A shadowy apparition just arrived.

Speaking squeakily to Benkueh, Taverkin says, “You is sore wounded, friend.”

Benkueh attempts to punch a shadowy apparition!
UAF: 1213 vs UDF: 504 = 2.000 (capped) * MM: 91 + d100: 81 = 263
… and hit for 89 points of damage!
Huge hit explodes right arm into cold, viscous mist.
When you look again, the arm has reformed.

Aurla intones a phrase of elemental power while raising her hands…
Aurla gestures at a shadowy apparition.
CS: +493 – TD: +315 + CvA: +25 + d100: +43 == +246
Warding failed!
Wisps of black smoke swirl around a shadowy apparition and it bursts into flame!
… 40 points of damage!
Strong strike splits the belly open, revealing ghostly organs.
Haggis anyone?
… 50 points of damage!
Massive blow obliterates the left knee.
The shadowy apparition falters as a sickly light flows freely down its leg.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadowy apparition’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
The shadowy apparition slowly settles to the ground and begins to dissipate.
Taverkin’s hands glow with power as he summons elemental energy to his
command…

Taverkin gestures at a shadowy apparition.
Taverkin hurls a stream of fire at a shadowy apparition!
AS: +535 vs DS: +310 with AvD: +55 + d100 roll: +91 = +371
… and hits for 201 points of damage!
Hard strike shatters arm into vapor.
The arm reforms before your eyes!

Metadi attempts to kick a shadowy apparition!
UAF: 638 vs UDF: 493 = 1.294 * MM: 55 + d100: 47 = 118
… and hit for 13 points of damage!
Light tap to the shadowy apparition’s head ruffles its appearance.

You swing a gleaming rune-scribed maul at a shadowy apparition!
AS: +570 vs DS: +364 with AvD: +34 + d100 roll: +65 = +305
… and hit for 160 points of damage!
Massive blow obliterates the right knee.
The shadowy apparition falters as a sickly light flows freely down its leg.
You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself
from the shadowy apparition’s body as it rises, disappearing into the
heavens.
The shadowy apparition slowly settles to the ground and begins to dissipate.

Sir Metadi’s group just went down a steep path leading to the north.

[A Cobblestone Walkway]
Two lines of stately yew trees crowd in on a dark cobblestone road.
The yews are ancient, covered in dense growth all the way from nearly
ground level to the top of their soaring trunks. The growth is thick
enough that it allows no outside light through the branches. To the
north a large clearing is illuminated by the silvery starlight. You
also see a steep path leading to the south.
Also here: Taverkin, High Lady Sillumina, Zelas, Grand Lady Aurla,
Mylenna, High Lady Vilorcasdra, Godefroy, Seomanthe, Sovine, Greganth,
Olgretien, Karibeth, Lord Syberus, Arnylon, Hoy, Dreuntar, Sir Metadi,
Master Benkueh
Obvious paths: north

Master Benkueh just limped north, favoring his left leg.

Sir Metadi’s group just went north.

[Voln Forecourt]
Several cast iron park benches back against a swiftly moving stream
that reflects the moonlight as it flows along one side of the
courtyard. A cobbled walkway extends through the courtyard’s center
and continues over a small bridge which spans the moat, connecting the
forecourt to the gated entryway of a large fortress. Opposite the
flowing water lies a narrow knot garden with a meadow beyond. You
also see a long-tailed small bat that is flying around, a pile of
tanned leather boots, a pile of tanned leather gloves, a plain steel
chest, a polished granite block with some stuff on it and a robed
guard.
Also here: Taverkin, High Lady Sillumina, Zelas, Grand Lady Aurla,
Mylenna, High Lady Vilorcasdra, Godefroy, Seomanthe, Sovine, Greganth,
Olgretien, Karibeth, Lord Syberus, Arnylon, Hoy, Dreuntar, Sir Metadi,
Master Benkueh, Lord Salltos who is sitting, Arpelli who is sitting,
Karuna, Lady Erosophe
Obvious paths: south

Speaking to Benkueh, Dreuntar says, “You’re bleeding a bit.”

Benkueh wobbles, looking a bit faint.

Salltos meditates over Benkueh.
Salltos takes Benkueh’s left leg damage.

Speaking to Benkueh, Snowrok says, “We made it.”

Speaking to Benkueh, Erosophe says, “Good to see you safe.”

Seomanthe whispers to the group, “What you think of using the symbol
of Disruption to keep Ziuna from doin her shadow trick?”

Geijon says, “Hmm.”

You step into the space between the corporeal and ethereal realms.

Metadi whispers to the group, “Lay your reasoning on is, Seomanthe.”

You feel yourself being pulled back fully into the corporeal realm.

Seomanthe whispers to the group, “Disruption is sposed to pull non
corporeal undead into our plan so we can wollop them proper.”

You feel ready to challenge the grasp of the corporeal realm once more.

Zelas asks, “We’ve won this round?”

Lady Tatsui just arrived.

Arnylon pokes Tatsui in the ribs.

Sillumina waves to Tatsui.

Sovine asks, “Eii but is this round just one for the day?”

Benkueh quietly says, “I must learn of a way to find their sanctuary.”

Speaking to Benkueh, Zelas asks, “Is their sanctuary close?”

Speaking to Benkueh, Erosophe asks, “How do we find that?”

Seomanthe whispers to the group, “The gods favored us with new symbols
burned right in like first time – mayhap you could need someone to
look at your head if you canna recall em already.”

Benkueh quietly says, “I will consult with the other monks tonight.
Be ready to fight again. They will return, I have no doubt.”

You nod at Benkueh.

Godefroy asks, “The monastary should remain secure from them, in the
interim, as they are weakened?”

Zelas says, “Or will we see them at night time only, when shadows are deeper.”

Benkueh quietly says, “For now, learn more of what I have taught you,
and discover what favors Liabo has blessed The Order with this night.”

You say, “We’ve been most blessed.”

Speaking to Benkueh, Arnylon says, “We shall work on it.”

Benkueh quietly says, “Take gloves and boots if you have not, they
will not remain forever.”

Speaking squeakily to Benkueh, Taverkin exclaims, “I is not of yer
order, friend. But I’ll always does what I can ta fight those who
would hurt me friends!”

Speaking to Benkueh, you say, “We are glad you reached th’ monastary
safely as well to show us these skills and avoid these “Inks”.”

Zelas agrees with you.

Karibeth’s hazy and indistinct form returns to normal.

Seomanthe turns her shoulders to the left in a long, slow stretch.

Seomanthe gives Karibeth a rather puzzled look.

Karibeth says, “That is great.”

Karibeth grins slowly.

Metadi says, “Ye hae tae wonder what the Inks will do once they see
that they cannae contain the knowledge.”

Metadi says, “Okay, we’ve gained a pause, mayhap until tomorrow night.”

Speaking to Benkueh, Metadi asks, “Will they still be targeting ye
when they appear, or this outpost?”

Benkueh quietly says, “They seek to destroy The Order.”

Taverkin squeakily asks, “You knows that other shadow was here the
past two nights?”

Benkueh quietly says, “I do not know their minds clearly, but it is
safe to believe that they will strike here again.”

Metadi nods at Benkueh.

Speaking to Benkueh, Dreuntar says, “The order does not merely consist
of the buildings. I doubt they can get us all.”

Speaking to Dreuntar, you say, “Well said.”

Arpelli nods at Benkueh.

Arpelli says, “Good to know.”

Benkueh quietly says, “I have much to study.”

The robed guard gives Benkueh a nod and says, “Welcome, Master Benkueh.”
Master Benkueh just went across a small bridge.

Godefroy says, “May the Queen of Enlightenment aid him in his research.”

Speaking to Metadi, Godefroy asks, “Do we encamp, or return home for
the evening?”

Metadi says, “They’ll be attacking again tomorrow night, probably.”

Dreuntar says, “If nothing else that one Erithian lass gave me fits
when she returned after the four or so times I’d killed her. I don’t
think she likes me.”

Seomanthe says, “She don seem the sort to like anyone.”

Metadi says, “Their goal is the destruction o’ e’ery Voln outpost.
Since they hae their forces massed here, they’ll probably try tae
reduce this one tomorrow night.”

Nouvard says, “Those who would stay can seek loging in the fortress of
Vaalor. We are not as fancy as Illistim but you should be able to find
some comfort there.”

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