Fiona follows Torinn out and as the two walk together, she confides in him, "Look... there's something about the whole thing that bothers me." Shaking her head, she says, "I think I'm gonna do a little more diggin' while you have that duel, all right? Maybe even see if I can track down... the inspector."

>>77405
"I understand. Thank you for all your help. I couldn't have gotten this far without your help."

"Yeah, well, I intend to see this through to the end, egghead, so don't go through any touching goodbyes just yet," Fiona says, poking Torinn a bit. "Call it detective's instincts, women's intuition, whatever, I have a bad feelin' and I wanna check some things. This duel thing seems a bit out of my purview anyways. See ya soon."

With that, the halfling wanders off, and Torinn proceeds to the East Bastion Bridge.

>>77407
Torinn wishes Fiona the best of luck before they part ways. When he arrives at the bridge, he starts preparations for the duel.

Torinn arrives at the enormous stone bridge spanning the gap between the City Bastion and the eastern-most defense tower. High up in the air, this stone bridge is sturdy and all but indestructible by mundane means due to the superior dragonborn craftsmanship, and a number of potent wards have made it highly resistant to magical attacks as well. The stone railing to either side of the bridge comes up to Torinn's shoulders, making it highly unlikely that a dragonborn of his stature could be knocked over the edge by even the most devastating blow.

Very near the tower itself, far from the City Bastion, a stone platform protrudes from the bridge, and Torinn knows that this stone platform specifically is where duels are held. It is blocked off by ornate gates stylized with the heads of prominent dragonborn heroes. Torinn and Rutger enter the gates and stand atop the platform to make preparations for the duel, and Torinn's ever-present Lance Defender guardians stand just outside.

The tower in the distance is elaborate and has the motif of a wizard's tower, as not only is the tower designed to give archers cover against potential dragon attack, but it is also enchanted with properties that make it an ideal place for spellcasters to utilize for ritual casting or long-range bombardment of flying foes who would approach the city from this direction.

>>77409
Torinn takes in the view for a minute and runs his hand over the gates. It's not that he's never been here before, it''s that he's never fought here before. The enormity of it and what he's been tasked to do only now registers with him. It leaves him speechless.

As they say, 'history is written by the winners', and Torinn will be damned if he lets something that threatens his homeland pen an entry.

For now, though, he does stretching exercises to prepare for the upcoming duel. It can only help him.

Roughly forty minutes after Torinn's arrival he hears footsteps approaching. Two additional Lance Defenders, along with Theskan and Tarhun approach. Tarhun is again dressed in scale armor, though it appears polished since he last spoke with Torinn, and his longspear is again strapped to his back.

"Good, you are here," Tarhun grunts, his greenish scales glinting in the afternoon's light. He turns and nods to Theskan, saying, "Theskan here has put in word for you and is going to be the overseer for the duel."

The rust-scaled dragonborn smiles and says, "It is good to see you again, Torinn. I must say, these are very... interesting circumstances."

>>77411
Torinn arms himself with his sword and shield. "These are interesting times, Mister Theskan," he says as nonchalantly as he can manage. In spite of everything, he's rather excited. "I'm ready over here."

Vanquisher Tarhun enters the arena opposite Torinn and draws his longspear, adopting a fighting stance. "Good. I will spare no quarter until the judge demands I yield, Torinn Tormine!"

As the vanquisher issues his challenge, Theskan moves into the middle of the two to officiate the combat. Torinn draws his weapons, and both combatants await the signal to begin the duel. However, the dragonborn notices something coalescing within the arena, to the south of Theskan...

"Do not fear, child. I come to aid thee," the man with the canaries said. With a gesture, the canary on Torinn's shoulder begins to chip, and the six surrounding the wizened sage all chirp in unison, and the paladin feels a surge of empowerment flowing through him, the likes of which he has never felt before. "None save thee can perceive me or mine. Do not think it unfair, thou art my paladin. This power always resided within thee, I only brought it forth."

Oblivious to the actions of the man with the canaries, Theskan raises a hand and announces simply, "Begin!"

The Man with the Canaries uses Bahamut's Blessing on Torinn. Until the end of the encounter, Torinn gains a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.

Initiative
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (K-9) 89/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's Blessing
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 7 canaries remaining

Enemies
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): (K-7)

Neutral
Commander Theskan (Neutral): (I-13)
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (J-4)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (M-4)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (J-22)
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (M-22)
Rutger (Ally): (K/L-24/25)

Notes
Neutral parties are not involved in the combat.
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.

With a howl, the vanquisher surges forward and stabs at Torinn with his longspear. However, in a surprising feint, he slashes the tip of his weapon against his own hand, flicking a bit of blood into Torinn's face--and the paladin feels poison begin to course through his body.

Tarhun turns the feint into a spin, but Torinn is not caught off-guard, and with unnatural speed, turns aside both of Tarhun's blows, once with his own weapon, and once with his shield. With a final surge of strength, Tarhun opens his mouth and spews forth a cloud of poison, but the canary on Torinn's shoulder vanishes, and a surge of divine energy seems to pierce the poisonous cloud and divert the worst of it away.

Only the lingering effects of the poison seem to be affecting Torinn at the moment. "You've certainly improved, Torinn!" Tarhun shouts, genuine admiration in his voice.

Vanquisher Tarhun moves, then charges Torinn, missing with his longspear on a natural 1.
Vanquisher Tarhun spends an action point! Vanquisher Tarhun uses double attack, missing twice with his longspear.
Vanquisher Tarhun uses dragon breath as a minor action, which hits, but the man with the canaries uses divine intervention, expending one canary, so the attack instead misses for 9 poison damage.
Torinn begins his turn in Tarhun's poisonous blood aura and takes ongoing 10 poison damage.

Initiative
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (K-9) 70/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's Blessing, ongoing 10 poison damage (save ends)
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 6 canaries remaining

Enemies
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): (K-17)

Neutral
Commander Theskan (Neutral): (I-13)
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (J-4)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (M-4)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (J-22)
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (M-22)
Rutger (Ally): (K/L-24/25)

Notes
Neutral parties are not involved in the combat.
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.

>>77414
Torinn falls back and draws on divine power to heal himself, but falters, wondering if this is okay. Is it truly honorable to meet Tarhun with the direct blessing of his god?

But it's just a more direct version of what he's been doing all this time, he chides himself. With that in mind, Torinn makes to rush in - and is punished for it by a vicious strike from Tarhun. "Very good, sir," he says through a mouthful of blood, praising his for his deadly blow.

However, the dragonborn's conviction flares up again = he's still alive, he still has things he needs to do, he can and will fight until the match is called - and he charges Tarhun with a roar of battle. The first strike is a direct hit. The second strike to his legs is spot on. The third, a reckless blow that would leave an inexperienced soldier wide open, is devestatingly accurate. He doesn't suffer for it - rather, he is emboldened by his success, and his faith becomes his shield.

Torinn stands ready for Tarhun's next attack.

shift to K-20
Fail save against poison with divine mettle: http://orokos.com/roll/319017 (8)
charge with Ardent Strike http://orokos.com/roll/319018 (43,23) divine sanction
free action: trip-up: http://orokos.com/roll/319019 (38,21) and slow on hit
action point: brash strike (http://orokos.com/roll/319020 CRIT) (http://orokos.com/roll/319021 34 damage) and +5 to defensessaving throw: http://orokos.com/roll/319022 (10)

Though Torinn's divine power ends up being insufficient to shield him from the lingering effects of Tarhun's poison, he surges forward regardless. As he moves, the vanquisher takes advantage of an opening, using the reach of his spear to his advantage, piercing Torinn's armor on the flank and causing him to spit blood as he brings his blade down upon his foe. However, Tarhun's over-extension leaves him wide open for Torinn to score a solid strike against the vanquisher's scale, knocking him briefly off-balance. Torinn then digs into his reserves of strength, and his faith guides the strike that works its way between the metallic scales of Tarhun's armor, and stabs into the dragonborn's flank. Though the vanquisher quickly pulls away and twists out of the strike, this gives Torinn time to draw back and adopt a defensive stance, with divine power bolstering him as he does so.

Bahamut's power surges through Torinn's body, and he can feel his wounds close as his armor shifts to cover the exposed area, so those viewing the battle from the outside cannot see. Theskan watches with great interest as the battle proceeds and Tarhun again strikes twice with his longspear, resulting in two resounding blows against Torinn's shield. Though Torinn feels the poison from Tarhun's blood continue to sap his strength, it's a drop in the bucket compared to the divine rejuvenation provided to him by his god.

Torinn's divine mettle granted saving throw fails.
Torinn shifts back 1 square, then charges, provoking an opportunity attack due to Tarhun's threatening reach, and Tarhun's longspear scores a critical hit for 29 damage. Torinn is bloodied. Torinn's ardent strike hits for 23 damage, and his triggered trip up hits for 21 damage. Tarhun is subject to Torinn's divine sanction and slowed until the end of Torinn's next turn.
Torinn spends an action point! Torinn uses brash strike, scoring a critical hit for 34 damage. Torinn successfully saves against ongoing poison damage.
The man with the canaries uses Bahamut's Mercy, allowing Torinn to spend a healing surge and regain an additional 25 hit points, for a total of 50 hit points. He also directs a new canary to Torinn's side.
Vanquisher Tarhun uses double attack, missing Torinn twice with his longspear (once due to the defense bonus granted to Torinn from harlquin style, once with a natural 1).
Torinn begins his turn in poisonous blood and takes ongoing 10 poison damage (save ends).

Initiative
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (K-18) 79/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's Blessing, ongoing 10 poison damage (save ends)
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 6 canaries remaining

Enemies
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): (K-17) -78 HP, divine sanction, slowed

Neutral
Commander Theskan (Neutral): (I-13)
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (J-4)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (M-4)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (J-22)
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (M-22)
Rutger (Ally): (K/L-24/25)

Notes
Neutral parties are not involved in the combat.
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.

>>77416
Torinn blocks Tarhun's assault, and punishes him for his recklessness. With the divine power granted by Bahamut, Torinn finds the strength to catch Tarhun's attack and pivot him around, then slam him into the ground. He invokes a prayer that fills him with even greater strength, and adopts a stance to take advantage of any opening Tarhun makes. He will not hold back - he owes the Vanquisher that much. Which is why he channels some of his own life into a powerful blow against Tarhun, the blow resounding across the grounds.

Torinn may have overextended himself somewhat, and can't shake off the poison. But he shows no fear to his opponent.

Use Disciplined Counter on second miss (http://orokos.com/roll/319033 32, 26) and throw slide Tarhun 2 squares to K-19, he grants combat advantage until the end of my next turn, which is now
Use Wrath of the Gods to gain a +5 power bonus to damage rolls
Use Rain of Steel to enter the 1[W] auto-damage stance
Use Blood of the Mighty (http://orokos.com/roll/319034 45, 42) and take 5 damage
Saving throw (http://orokos.com/roll/319037 2)

Tarhun is tossed about by Torinn's quick counterstrike, and though he falls briefly to one knee he pulls himself to his feet, though in the time this gives Torinn, the paladin has infused his blade with divine power and adopted a warrior's battle stance. Torinn uses his own pain to fuel a powerful blow which slashes through Tarhun's armor, and the vanquisher's blood splatters across the ground and splashes Torinn. Theskan winces, but allows the duel to continue, even as Torinn strikes yet again at Tarhun with his blade as the vanquisher struggles to regain his composure.

The man with the canaries is silent, but seems to look on Torinn approvingly as Tarhun adopts the same look. "Good, very good," the vanquisher praises. "Now it's my turn!" Issuing forth a mighty battle cry and fueled by the sight of his own blood, he spews forth another wave of poison, engulfing Torinn completely this time, and Torinn finds his fortitude weakened by the vanquisher's breath weapon. Immediately Tarhun turns his fury into a pair of reckless stabs with his longspear, but neither finds an exposed region, as Torinn's plate mail provides him enough defense to ward off the blows.

Unfortunately, Torinn's armor provides no defense against the vanquisher's poisonous blood, which is now splattered all over the paladin. He can feel his own blood begin to ooze from his mouth, and both combatants are now bloody and battered in appearance. Neither seems to falter in the slightest in their stance, however, as both grip their weapons tightly and stare at their opponent with grim determination.

When Tarhun misses, Torinn uses disciplined counter, hitting for 26 damage and sliding Tarhun 2 squares.
Torinn uses rain of steel to enter the stance, and uses wrath of the gods to gain a +5 power bonus to damage rolls until the end of the encounter. Torinn uses blood of the mighty, hitting for 42 damage. Torinn takes 5 damage. Vanquisher Tarhun is bloodied, and uses blood of the dragon. Until the end of the encounter, he gains a +2 bonus to attack rolls and can use dragon breath at-will.
The man with the canaries passes on his turn.
Vanquisher Tarhun takes 24 damage at the start of his turn. Tarhun uses dragon breath, hitting Torinn for 16 poison damage, and Torinn becomes vulnerable 5 poison until the end of Tarhun's next turn.
Tarhun uses double attack, missing Torinn with his longspear twice.
Torinn begins his turn in the poisonous blood aura and takes ongoing 20 poison damage (save ends), increased to 25 from his poison vulnerability. He is bloodied.

Initiative
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (K-18) 33/89 HP (Bloodied), resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's Blessing, ongoing 20 poison damage (save ends), +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel, vulnerable 5 poison
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 6 canaries remaining

Enemies
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): (K-19) -170 HP (Bloodied), blood of the dragon, marked

Neutral
Commander Theskan (Neutral): (I-13)
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (J-4)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (M-4)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (J-22)
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (M-22)
Rutger (Ally): (K/L-24/25)

Notes
Neutral parties are not involved in the combat.
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.

>>77418
Torinn is winded and wounded, taking heaving breaths to keep air in his lungs. He inhales, and then expels a blast of lightning at Tarhun. He hits again with a seemingly reckless attack that somehow leaves no openings, drawing on his faith to shield him, and to chastise Tarhun. "I know you're better than this, Tarhun!" he yells earnestly. "Don't let your pride hold you back; fight me with everything you have!"

Dragon Breath: http://orokos.com/roll/319041 (31, 25)
Brash Strike + Mocking Smite: http://orokos.com/roll/319042 (38, 32 plus 5 psychic and radiant damage) +5 defenses, and effectively invisible
Saving throw: http://orokos.com/roll/319045 (5)
Rain of steel damage roll: http://orokos.com/roll/319048 (23)

Last edited at 15/08/22(Sat)21:40:49

Torinn's electrifying breath likewise engulfs the vanquisher, and though Tarhun remains resolute in the face of the lightning energy, he is visible twitching erratically afterwards. Calling again on divine power to infuse his sword, Torinn launches another reckless attack and simultaneously raises his shield in defense, warding off potential counter-attack. The power of his smite knocks Torinn right out of the vanquisher's field of vision, and as another blow rains down upon him, Tarhun yells, "ENOUGH!" Looking to Theskan, he says, "I yield! Torinn is victorious!"

A look that almost appears to be disappointment briefly flashes across Theskan's face, but he nods, and signals to end the duel. "Very well! Victory to Torinn Tormine!" Grasping Torinn's sword-arm, Theskan raises it into the air, which also lifts the dragonborn's sword high in triumph. Vanquisher Tarhun looks around warily, still unable to see the dragonborn paladin, but he holds his weapon forward with both hands in a stance that is only one of defense, not attack.

The main with the canaries again rejuvenates the paladin, and his voice whispers in Torinn's ear, "Remain vigilant. The cloying stench of deception lingers still."

Torinn uses dragon breath, hitting Vanquisher Tarhun for 25 lightning damage, and Tarhun is sanctioned until the end of Torinn's next turn.
Torinn uses brash strike with mocking smite, hitting for 32 damage plus 5 radiant and psychic damage. Torinn gains a +5 bonus to all defenses and is invisible to Tarhun until the end of his next turn.
The man with the canaries uses Bahmaut's Mercy, allowing Torinn to spend a healing surge and regain 50 hit points.
Vanquisher Tarhun takes 23 damage from rain of steel. Vanquisher Tarhun yields.

Initiative
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (K-18) 83/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's Blessing, ongoing 20 poison damage (save ends), +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel, vulnerable 5 poison, +5 to all defenses and invisible to Vanquisher Tarhun
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 6 canaries remaining

Enemies
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): (K-19) -255 HP (Bloodied), blood of the dragon, marked

Neutral
Commander Theskan (Neutral): (J-17)
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (J-4)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (M-4)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (J-22)
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (M-22)
Rutger (Ally): (K/L-24/25)

Notes
Neutral parties are not involved in the combat.
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.

>>77420
With his arm held up in triumph, Torinn is relieved for all of a moment before recieving a warning from the old man. He inspects his surroundings and the people around him as carefully as he can, his senses heightened by the blessing of his god.

What's wrong with this picture, Torinn thinks as he takes everything in.

Perception and insight on surroundings: http://orokos.com/roll/319050 (34 and 23)

Torinn barely has time to scan his surroundings before he hears a faint voice calling his name, "TORINN! TOOOR-INNN!"

Theskan releases the paladin's hand as a halfling woman comes charging across the bridge, running past both guards and throwing open the gate before coming to a sudden stop just short of the group, slapping her hands to her legs as she bends over and pants desperately. "Torinn..." she gasps, very clearly out of breath. "That prisoner... the one we interrogated... she's escaped..."

Tarhun, now able to see the paladin, looks to the halfling, then expectantly towards Torinn, as if asking for an explanation. Torinn does not sense an obvious deception, and he certainly can't see it, but the halfling's words are doubtless troubling. The two dragonborn guards by the western gate begin to move cautiously towards Fiona, as if unsure what to make of the spectacle.

>>77422
Torinn grits his teeth in anger for a moment, then forces himself to calm down. He explains to Tarhun, "We interrogated one of the cultists earlier. Under supervision," he adds, "it's how we found the warehouse and the physical evidence."

He whirls about on Fiona, keeping as calm as he possibly can after everything that's happened today, and asks, "Where was she last seen?"

diplomacy to keep everyone out of trouble and to get answers: http://orokos.com/roll/319052 (26)

Last edited at 15/08/22(Sat)22:51:21

"She never... she was never seen after she was brought out... for interrogation," Fiona says, drawing a deep breath and looking up towards one of the dragonborn with an angry expression.

"There's only one person who was involved in movin' her from the prison to the warehouse... and he never reported any problems!" she halfling woman spits accusingly, staring down the dragonborn with rust-colored scales.

>>77424
The paladin turns to Theskan expectantly. "Mister Theskan," he asks, not yet accusingly, "what did you do with the prisoner?"

insight on Theskan: http://orokos.com/roll/319053 (25)

Theskan shrugs nonchalantly, then grins wickedly and replies, "Well, I suppose now is as good a time as any to tell you." As he speaks, his form stretches and melts into a green, scaly wide, and two enormous wings sprout from his back. His dragonborn features give way to those of a true dragon, massive in size and with a prominent horn protruding forward from its snout, and tendrils of poison seeping from its maw. "Now that all of the insects are in one place, where they can be squashed!" Thrilvian, the elder green dragon roars.

Tarhun barely has time to grip his longspear and resume his fighting stance before a thunderous flap announces the dragon taking wing, and though both he and Torinn swipe at its retreating form with their weapons, neither manages to land a blow against the wily green dragon. It laughs mockingly and belches forth a cloud of poisonous gas upon the vanquisher, the paladin, and the two nearby guards.

The dragon's poison breath does not seem to be immediately lethal, and Tarhun seems particularly resistant to its effects, but Torinn feels a lethargy seize his body as the poison begins to sap away at this life, and he is nearly helpless watching as the green dragon descends upon Fiona and the two guards to the west, claws and teeth at the ready. Tarhun roars through the cloud of poison, largely unaffected, "DRAGON!"

"Despair not, child!" resounds the voice of the man with the canaries. Suddenly, Torinn feels completely cleansed of the poison, and notices one of the eastern guards is also cleansed. The canaries around the old sage begin to scatter--two remain close, but one moves over to the dragon and transforms into the spiritual body of a golden wyrm. Though smaller than the green dragon, it looms over Thrilvian's form and causes the green dragon to roar and twist its head towards the newfound threat, and the dragon suddenly becomes empowered by Bahamut's blessing, and the vanquisher seems affected as well, though he appears too distracted by the green dragon to notice. Finally, the two canaries flutter towards Fiona, and one dissolves into golden dust that covers both the cowering halfling woman and the looming green dragon. The green dragon is at once stunned and falls heavily to the ground, its claws digging grooves into the cobblestone bridge. Fiona begins to hover above the ground, and what appear to be shimmering golden wings erupt from her back. "Instruct her to flee, I will protect her as she escapes!"

Thrilvian can do little but shake off the sudden divine onslaught, seemingly confused about the origin of the attack, and Tarhun begins barking out orders, "YOU!" he points to the eastern pair of guards, "Man the tower! Ready the snares and dragonkillers! YOU" He points to the western set of guards, "Go to the city and rally the Lance Defenders, a dragon is attacking! YOU!" he points to Fiona, "Escape, and warn the citizens! Torinn and I will hold it here!" The vanquisher attempts to close the gap with the dragon, though it's clear the dragon's poisonous breath is still badly affecting him, and slowing his movements. He breathes in deep, and attempts to recover his strength.

Torinn now feels empowered by the vanquisher's presence rather than poisoned by his blood.

Thilvian's instinctive flyby allows it to use flyby attack, allowing it to fly 10 squares and use breath weapon at any point during the move. Torinn's opportunity attack misses but marks Thrilvian. Vanquisher Tarhun's opportunity attack with his longspear misses too, but only because Thrilvian has a +4 bonus to all defenses against opportunity attacks during this movement. Thrilvian's breath weapon hits Torinn, Tarhun, and both dragonborn guards for 16 poison damage, and they are all slowed and take ongoing 15 poison damage (save ends both). Tarhun resists 10 poison damage. Thrilvian finishes its flight near the western guards and Fiona.
The man with the canaries uses Bahamut's cleansing, ending the save-ends poison effect on Torinn and one of the dragonborn guards. The man with the canaries uses summon gold dragon spirit, expending one canary to summon a gold dragon spirit near and above Thrilvian. He then uses Bahamut's blessing on Vanquisher Tarhun and the gold dragon spirit.
The man with the canaries spends an action point! The man with the canaries uses gold dragon rescue on Fiona, expending one canary, and hitting Thrilvian. Thrilvian is stunned (save ends), and Fiona gains a fly speed of 10 until the end of her next turn.
Thrilvian loses its turn due to being stunned, and the effect ends at the end of turn due to action recovery.
Vanquisher Tarhun takes ongoing 15 poison damage (reduced to 5) and moves 2 squares. Vanquisher Tarhun uses his second wind, spending a healing surge to regain 73 hit points and gaining a +2 bonus to all defenses until his next turn. He successfully saves against ongoing damage and slow, but suffers the aftereffect of slowed (save ends).

Initiative
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Instinctive Flyby): 44
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): 34
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22
Guards and Fiona (Allies): 10

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (K-18) 57/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's Blessing, +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 6 canaries remaining
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): (K-19) -193 HP (Bloodied), resist 10 poison, blood of the dragon, slowed (save ends), Bahamut's blessing
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (J-4)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (M-4)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (J-22) -16 HP
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (M-22) -16 HP, slowed and ongoing 15 poison damage (save ends both)
Rutger (Ally): (K/L-24/25)
Fiona (Non-combatant): (L-11) fly 10
Gold Dragon Spirit 1 (Summoned Ally): (K/L-7/8, Elevation 4) 120/120 HP, 34 all defenses, Bahamut's blessing

Enemies
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): (J/L-8/10) marked (Torinn)

Notes
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.
Vanquisher's Presence gives allies in the aura 5 a +1 power bonus to speed and +3 power bonus to healing surge value. Bloodied allies in the aura gain a +5 bonus to damage rolls.
Blood of the dragon gives Vanquisher Tarhun a +2 bonus to attack rolls and allows him to use dragon breath at-will.

Torinn: (Nature) Blessed with divine insight, Torinn understands the nature of an elder green dragon. While known as forest-dwellers, green dragons are also known for their penchant for deceit and manipulation, and as a result are often found lairing in the ruins of fallen civilizations as well (green dragons possess forest walk). Green dragons are among the most likely of all dragons to assume a humanoid guise in order to infiltrate nearby humanoid communities, often both personally and through proxy. While some green dragons have long-sighted, complex plans that they enact through these deceptions, many do it simply because they enjoy the process. Intrigue and guile are the primary weapons of the green dragon, as they do no relish physical combat as much as some of the other chromatics.

Despite this, an elder green dragon such as Thrilvian is still an incredibly dangerous and powerful opponent (a level 19 solo skirmisher, it has a land speed of 10 and a fly speed of 14, and possesses darkvision). More than any other dragon, they favor swooping dive-bomb like attacks to wear foes down from the air, and are at most at home in the forest where the canopy gives them additional cover while airborne (flyby attack is a standard action recharge power, allowing the dragon to fly 10 squares and use bite or breath weapon (if it is recharged) at any point during the move). Green dragons harry their prey until it is so overcome with the dragon's poison that it slows to a crawl (instinctive flyby allows the dragon to use flyby attack on an initiative of 10 + its initiative count as a free action, even if it's not recharged. If a stunning or dominating effect prevents it from taking free actions, that effect ends instead of the dragon making the attack). In the event that the dragon itself is wounded in close combat, its foes would find its blood most disagreeable as well (poisonous wounds is an aura 1, when the dragon is bloodied, any enemy that ends its turn in the aura takes ongoing 10 poison damage (save ends), which increases to 20 if the creature is bloodied).

As a dragon, Thrilvian also possesses an incredible resistance to mentally damaging attacks (action recovery removes dazing, dominating, or stunning effects from the dragon at the end of each of its turns). In addition, the dragon's own gaze is a powerful charm that allows it to re-position its foes to one more to the dragon's liking (luring gaze is a close blast 10 charm attack against Will that the dragon can use once per turn as a minor action. If it hits, the dragon slides the target 3 squares. Cunning glance allows the dragon to use this attack as an immediate reaction against an enemy within 2 squares of the dragon that shifts). The dragon's breath is a powerful blast of poison that lingers for some time, harming and slowing the dragon's enemies for a very long period of time (the dragon's breath weapon is a close blast 5 against Fortitude, dealing poison damage on a hit, and enemies hit by the attack also take ongoing 15 poison damage and are slowed (save ends both). As an aftereffect, the target is again slowed (save ends). There is no miss effect). When wounded, the dragon will again utilize its breath weapon against worthy opponents (bloodied breath allows the dragon to recharge and use its breath weapon without using an action when first bloodied). And while the dragon's bite and claws might seem mundane compared to all of that, they should still be rightly feared (both bite and claw have a ranged of melee 3, bite deals damage plus poison damage on a hit, and still deals some poison damage on a miss, and is the dragon's basic attack. Claw can target one or two creatures, and when targeting one, is two attacks. Bite and claw target a creature's AC. On each hit, the dragon deals some damage and can shift 2 squares).

>>77426
With Bahamut's blessing, Torinn gains uncanny insight into the nature of his enemy. He's intimidated at first - it's stronger than anything he's fought, save for Daragoth, and he had to escape for that battle. But Torinn buckles down, determined to see this enemy defeated. This enemy is threatening his homeland, and he will not let it get away with that.

Whistling sharply, Torinn calls for Rutger. The big cat rears back, then leaps into the sky. As it rises, it is enveloped in a bright light, its form shifting and changing until, at its apex, two large, feathery wings erupt from its back. Where 'it' is no longer a large cat; 'it' is now a large, winged horse, its body a silvery white. A single, powerful flap of its wings scatters plumage and propels Rutger to Torinn's side.

Torinn leaps into the saddle, thanks to Bahamut's magic, and readies his sword. Rutger rears back, then charges at the giant dragon, using its wings to give them a burst of speed. Torinn himself controls his anger at what the green dragon had done, and channels it into his attack. A direct hit threatens the dragon with divine retribution if it does anything other than attacking him.

While he has the dragon's attention, Torinn looks to Fiona and the guards and says, "Do as Tarhun says! Run!"

Dragon knowledge check http://orokos.com/roll/319227 (35)
Rutger assumes celestial pegasus form and flies to J/K-16/17
Get on Rutger
Charge Thrilvian at J/K-11/12 with Ardent Strike http://orokos.com/roll/319241 (47, 31) and Thrilvian is sanctioned
Rain of Steel damage roll http://orokos.com/roll/319242 (19)

The battle cat transforms into a majestic celestial pegasus, dashing to Torinn's side and letting him mount the creature. With a battle cry, Torinn surges forward, driving his blade deep into the dragon's flank. The guards begin to rush to their duties, and the guard cleansed of the poison manages to open the tower door. Fiona shrieks as she flies away on the golden wings, and even though the dragon snaps at her as she retreats, the canary fluttering near her disappears and drives the dragon back, such that she only catches a whiff of poison from the snapping maw.

With another beat of its wings, Thrilvian swoops away from Torinn and the golden dragon spirit, giving both an opportunity to punish it for doing so. The golden dragon slashes forth with a spiritual claw, and as it passes through the green dragon's body, a bit of its life is drained away. Torinn swipes with his sword, but the blade's tip is just barely deflected off of the green scaly armor of the dragon. The gold dragon spirit takes wing and moves in pursuit of the green dragon, even as the man with the canaries administers more rejuvenation to Tarhun and Torinn, restoring both to near-pristine condition.

Thrilvian whirls on the gold dragon pursuit with its gaze, but the metallic dragon spirit remains unmoved. Snarling, it slashes twice with its claws, giving it just enough pause for the dragon to loop back north towards the paladin and breath another blast of poison upon him and his mount. "Die, insect! Di--ARGGH!" the green dragon's taunts are cut short as a javelin pierces its neck, and then another its shoulder.

Tarhun reaches for another javelin as Torinn feels the poison slowly draining his strength and speed. "You will rue the day you attacked my city, beast!"

Rutger assumes the form of a celestial pegasus and moves. Torinn mounts Rutger then charges Thrilvian with ardent strike, hitting for 31 damage and Thrilvian is sanctioned until the end of Torinn's next turn.
Guards 3 and 4 double-run, Guard 3 manages to reach the tower door and open it. Guard 4 successfully saves against ongoing poison damage but is still slowed.
Fiona flies away, and Thrilvian takes an opportunity attack. Thrilvian takes 13 radiant damage from divine sanction, and the man with the canaries turns the bite hit into a miss, Fiona takes 10 poison damage. Fiona double-runs while flying.
Guards 1 and 2 shift, and Thrilvian elects not to use cunning glance. They then move away.
Thrilvian's instinctive flyby triggers, and it flies 10 squares, using bite, hitting Torinn for 18 damage plus ongoing 10 poison damage (save ends). This bloodies Torinn, and as it moves, it provokes opportunity attacks. The gold dragon spirit hits for 29 damage.
The man with the canaries uses Bahamut's cleansing, removing the ongoing poison damage from Torinn and the slow from Tarhun. The man with the canaries moves the gold dragon spirit. The man with the canaries uses Bahamut's mercy, Torinn spends a healing surge and regains 53 hit points, and Tarhun spends a healing surge and regains 98 hit points.
Thrilvian attacks the gold dragon spirit with its luring gaze but misses. It then attacks it with claw, hitting once for 25 damage and allowing it to shift 2 squares. It then flies back around and spends an action point, using breath weapon, which just recharged, hitting Torinn and Rutger for 19 poison damage, and they both take ongoing 15 poison damage and are slowed (save ends both) (Rutger reduces the initial damage to 9).
Tarhun stows his longspear and pulls out a javelin. He uses double attack, hurling two javelins and scoring two hits for 27 damage and 33 damage.
At the start of Torinn's turn, Torinn and Rutger take ongoing 15 poison damage (Rutger reduces to 5).

Initiative
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Instinctive Flyby): 44
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): 34
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22
Guards and Fiona (Allies): 10

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (K-18) 55/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's blessing, +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel, ongoing 15 poison damage and slowed (save ends both)
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 3 canaries remaining
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): (I-17) 199/294 HP, resist 10 poison, blood of the dragon, Bahamut's blessing
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (J-1)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (M-1)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (J-36) -16 HP
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (M-24) -31 HP, slowed(save ends)
Rutger (Ally): (K/L-24/25) 30/44 HP, ongoing 15 poison damage and slowed (save ends both)
Fiona (Non-combatant): (Off-map) -10 HP
Gold Dragon Spirit 1 (Summoned Ally): (P/Q-17/18, Elevation 4/5) 95/120 HP, 34 all defenses, Bahamut's blessing

Enemies
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): (F/H-13/15, Elevation 4/6) -120 HP, sanctioned (Torinn)

Notes
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.
Vanquisher's Presence gives allies in the aura 5 a +1 power bonus to speed and +3 power bonus to healing surge value. Bloodied allies in the aura gain a +5 bonus to damage rolls.
Blood of the dragon gives Vanquisher Tarhun a +2 bonus to attack rolls and allows him to use dragon breath at-will.

>>77429
Torinn fastens himself in and prepares to deal with the dragon. At his command, Rutger flaps its wings and takes flight again. Though he's not as mobile as he'd like to be, thanks to the dragon's poison, he's more than able to close the distance between himself and Thrilvian. His sword strikes true, and the paladin hisses, "Never, ever, threaten my home!"

secure saddle
fly up two squares to K/L-11/12 elevation 2
charge to I/J-12/13 elevation 4 with Ardent Strike http://orokos.com/roll/319272 (43, 28) (save: http://orokos.com/roll/319274 9)
saving throws http://orokos.com/roll/319275 (17, 6)
Rain of Steel http://orokos.com/roll/319281 (20)

Torinn continues to chase the green dragon as it flies around the arena, again closing the gap and slashing with his blade. The guards continue to run towards the tower, with one shaking off the last lingering effects of the poison while the other enters the tower proper. The other guards continue to run back towards the city, and the halfling is now out of sight. Thrilvian attempts to bite Torinn's mount out from under him, but is completely foiled by a flash of radiant energy that distorts its senses just enough to give the pegasus enough time to fly out of the path of the snapping maw. As the dragon circles around to get a better angle of attack, it runs into Torinn's blade, and the paladin slashes a savage gash in the creature's flank, provoking something that almost sounds like a squeal from the horrendous creature.

Still hidden from the sight of all but Torinn, the man with the canaries provides succor to the mounted paladin and his steed, completely cleansing the green dragon's poison from their systems. "Torinn, my brood comes to your aid!" the sage shouts, as the gold dragon spirit roars and flies back into the fray, scoring a savage bite on the green dragon's flank. The green dragon roars in inarticulate fury, and its furious gaze gives Torinn pause--just for a moment, enough time for its charm to worm its way into the mind of his mount and force it to backpedal slightly, giving him room to lash out with his claws. One scores a savage hit across Torinn's chest that spills his blood across the platform below, and he is only spared another hit via the intervention of a disappearing canary.

With unnatural speed, the dragon circles around the platform and heads south, and higher into the skies. It isn't high enough to put it out of reach of Tarhun's javelins, however, and another two stick into the beast's belly, provoking yet another roar of pain.

Torinn moves, then charges the green dragon with ardent strike, hitting for 28 damage. His granted save fails.
Torinn saves against ongoing damage but is still slowed, and Rutger fails the saving throw.
Guard 3 enters the tower. Guard 4 runs twice, and successfully saves against being slowed. The other two guards double-run down the bridge and Fiona escapes.
Thrilvian's instinctive flyby triggers, and it attempts to bite Rutger. It misses due to the attack penalty from being sanctioned, and Thrilvian takes 13 radiant damage. Thrilvian flies, and Torinn's opportunity attack hits for 32 damage.
The man with the canaries uses Bahamut's cleansing to remove the ongoing damage and slow from Torinn and Rutger. He commands his gold dragon spirit to move, then uses its attack, which hits for 32 damage.
Thrilvian uses luring gaze, hitting and sliding Rutger away. It then uses claw, hitting once for 24 damage, and Bahamut intervenes to turn the second hit into a miss. The dragon shifts 2 squares. It then flies up to elevation 8 on the south side of the platform.
Vanquisher Tarhun moves and draws another javelin. He uses double attack, hitting twice for 23 damage and 38 damage.

Initiative
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Instinctive Flyby): 44
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): 34
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22
Guards and Fiona (Allies): 10

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (Mounted) 31/89 HP (Bloodied), resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's blessing, +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): (J/K-11/12, Elevation 4/5) 30/44 HP
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 2 canaries remaining
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): (L-15) 199/294 HP, resist 10 poison, blood of the dragon, Bahamut's blessing
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (Off-map)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (Off-map)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -16 HP
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (M-34) -31 HP
Fiona (Non-combatant): (Escaped) -10 HP
Gold Dragon Spirit 1 (Summoned Ally): (G/H-16/17, Elevation 4/5) 95/120 HP, 34 all defenses, Bahamut's blessing

Enemies
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): (O/Q-16/18, Elevation 8/10) -258 HP, sanctioned (Torinn)

Notes
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.
Vanquisher's Presence gives allies in the aura 5 a +1 power bonus to speed and +3 power bonus to healing surge value. Bloodied allies in the aura gain a +5 bonus to damage rolls.
Blood of the dragon gives Vanquisher Tarhun a +2 bonus to attack rolls and allows him to use dragon breath at-will.

>>77431
Torinn orders his mount to pursue the dragon. Heavy wingbeats push Rutger higher and higher, past the dragon's reach until the dragon's vertical ascent is blocked off. The paladin calls out the dragon's cowardice and places a divine brand upon the beast, threatening punishment for ignoring him. Then, with surprising skill, Torinn makes an attack that should have overextended him, but instead allows him to shield himself from further harm with his faith. Upon making this blow land, his armor relieves some of his injuries, and Torinn takes up a guarded position.

Fly to P/Q-17/18 elevation 11/12
Place Divine Challenge on Thrilvian
Brash Strike http://orokos.com/roll/319319 (48, 28) and gain +5 bonus to all defenses
Free action: Heal from dwarven armor
Rain of Steel damage http://orokos.com/roll/319323

Last edited at 15/08/23(Sun)20:15:08

Torinn rides Rutger high into the air before issuing his sacred challenge, his words infused with the holy power of his diety. He dives down onto the dragon, delivering a savage strike from his longsword, which resounds off the dragon's bony head crest, which now appears to have a crack upon it. The dragon is still reeling from the blow when it is suddenly struck by a projectile attached to a heavy steel chain, fired from the nearby defense tower. As the dragon roars, the projectile explodes and smaller, thinner chains magically move to envelop one of the creature's wings, and, unable to maintain flight, it crashes to the ground, pulling the chain and the contraption with it. The other guard hurries into the tower to man the rest of the tower defenses.

"Victory is near, child," the man with the canaries says confidently, directing his gold dragon even as he issues forth his blessing to Torinn's transformed mount. The gold dragon delivers a vicious attack to the fallen green dragon, its claws tearing out the life-force of the chromatic fiend. Tarhun looks a little hesitant, as if first noticing the gold dragon spirit attacking his hated foe.

Pulling himself up, Thrilvian jerks his entire body, tearing the heavy steel chain free of the tower and shattering the smaller chains enveloping his wing. "Fools! Your paltry defenses are nothing!" He turns his gaze towards the tower with a look of pure hate. "I will force you to watch as I tear them limb--"

"TOOOR-MIN!" comes a cry accompanying three sets of footsteps running east on the bridge towards the ongoing battle.

Torinn flies Rutger close. Torinn uses divine challenge on Thrilvian.
Torinn uses brash strike, hitting for 28 damage and gaining a +5 bonus to all defenses against Thrilvian until the end of his next turn. Torinn uses dwarven armor to regain 25 hit points.
Dragonborn guards 1 and 2 continue towards the city. Dragonborn guards 4 enters the tower. Dragonborn guard 3 fires a snare, which hits Thrilvian. The elder green dragon is restrained and crashes, landing prone and taking 12 falling damage.
Thrilvian cannot take its instinctive action because it is restrained and prone.
The man with the canaries moves the gold dragon spirit and uses Bahamut's blessing on Rutger. The man with the canaries commands the gold dragon spirit to attack, and it hits for 31 damage.
Thrilvian stands from prone. Thrilvian breaks free of the snare.

Initiative
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Instinctive Flyby): 44
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): 34
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22
Guards and Fiona (Allies): 10

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (Mounted) 56/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's blessing, +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): (P/Q-17/18, Elevation 11/12) 30/44 HP, Bahamut's blessing
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 2 canaries remaining
Vanquisher Tarhun (Ally): (L-15) 199/294 HP, resist 10 poison, blood of the dragon, Bahamut's blessing
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -16 HP
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -31 HP
Fiona (Non-combatant): (Escaped) -10 HP
Gold Dragon Spirit 1 (Summoned Ally): (M/N-16/17) 95/120 HP, 34 all defenses, Bahamut's blessing

Enemies
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): (O/Q-16/18) -329 HP, challenged (Torinn)

Notes
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.
Vanquisher's Presence gives allies in the aura 5 a +1 power bonus to speed and +3 power bonus to healing surge value. Bloodied allies in the aura gain a +5 bonus to damage rolls.
Blood of the dragon gives Vanquisher Tarhun a +2 bonus to attack rolls and allows him to use dragon breath at-will.

Gilgamesh, Nashu, and Hildibrand come to a halt just outside the gate leading to the duel platform. Hildibrand raises a finger and speaks, "I think we've had a break--" At this point, the human notices the dragon, and the ongoing battle, and his jaw drops. He stands there, gaping at the scene.

Gilgamesh seems to ignore the dragon and points a finger up towards the dragonborn, "Torinn Tormine, wielder of Nightfall! I hereby challenge you... TO A DUEL!!"

Hildibrand slowly looks over towards the giant man. "Um, Greg... I think he's kind of in the middle of something..."

>>77434
Torinn was so focused on the dragon that he almost doesn't hear Gilgamesh's challenge being issued. After all, it tore free from the restraints that were supposed to ground it, and it did so pretty easily. So this is what a fight with a 'real' dragon is like.

When everything Gilgamesh said registers with him, Torinn is confused. Then horrified that he -was- noticed carrying an artifact weapon. And finally...

"Help us subdue this dragon and you have a deal," he yells. If that guy is ballsy enough to challenge him to a duel, hopefully he can at least hold his own in a fight.

diplomacy: http://orokos.com/roll/319388 44

Last edited at 15/08/24(Mon)09:28:12

"It hardly seems a worthy challenge..." Gilgamesh almost mutters, holding his hand out in the air. "But if a dragon stands in our way, then I shall remove it!"

With that, a weapon begins to materialize in Gilgamesh's hand, as if he is summoning it from somewhere. From its size and shape, it appears to be a greatspear, but Torinn can immediately tell this is no ordinary greatspear. The wood of the handle is a polished black, and the tip of the spear has a unique curvature to it similar to a halberd, with the metal portion glowing purple.

Gilgamesh grips the spear with both hands, then assumes a fighting stance. As he does so, Thrilvian begins to thrash wildly about, roaring something inarticulate. It thing flaps its wings heavily and, its eyes carrying something that looks like fear, flies away with all haste. Tarhun's gaze lingers briefly on the spear in Gilgamesh's hands. "Is that... Ascalon?!" As the dragon flees, the spiritual gold dragon steals some more of the creature's life energy, and it leaves behind droplets of draconic blood as it flies southwest, as far away from Gilgamesh as possible.

"Hah! The dragon flees at the mere thought of Gilgamesh entering the fray!" the red-garbed giant laughs. Tarhun regains his composure long enough to pull out his last javelin, hurling it towards the best. Snarling, he adds, "We can't let that accursed dragon escape!" and then runs towards the tower.

Thrilvian spends an action point! Thrilvian flies away, and the gold dragon spirit's opportunity attack hits it for 31 damage.
Tarhun hits Thrilvian with a javelin for 25 damage. He then runs towards the tower. This bloodies Thrilvian.

Initiative
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Instinctive Flyby): 44
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): 34
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22
Guards and Fiona (Allies): 10

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (Mounted) 56/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's blessing, +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): (P/Q-17/18, Elevation 11/12) 30/44 HP, Bahamut's blessing
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 2 canaries remaining
Vanquisher Tarhun (Ally): (L-22) 199/294 HP, resist 10 poison, blood of the dragon, Bahamut's blessing
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -16 HP
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -31 HP
Fiona (Non-combatant): (Escaped) -10 HP
Gold Dragon Spirit 1 (Summoned Ally): (M/N-16/17) 95/120 HP, 34 all defenses, Bahamut's blessing

Enemies
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): (AC/AE-26/28, Elevation 8/10) -385 HP (Bloodied), challenged (Torinn)

Notes
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.
Vanquisher's Presence gives allies in the aura 5 a +1 power bonus to speed and +3 power bonus to healing surge value. Bloodied allies in the aura gain a +5 bonus to damage rolls.
Blood of the dragon gives Vanquisher Tarhun a +2 bonus to attack rolls and allows him to use dragon breath at-will.

>>77436
Torinn agrees with Tarhun completely here. He's not ready to let the dragon escape. It has to answer for what it did, and answer a lot of questions he has.

Then again, so does the man in red. "I hope you can help actually take down this creature, sir," Torinn calls down to Gilgamesh as he drops his shield and switches to a two-handed grip on his weapon. Inciting Rutger to fly, Torinn chases down Thrilvian, looping around underneath the retreating dragon and gouging it in its surprised face as he cuts it off.

"I'm not letting you run away!" he threatens, more than ready to cut the creature off again if it tries to flee again.

Drop shield
Use longsword two-handed
Move up eight squares and drop to elevation 5
Use Flyby Attack to fly to AF/AG-26/27 elevation 10 and attack at the end of the movement http://orokos.com/roll/319517 (33, 33)
Use Glowering Threat (optional intimidate roll: http://orokos.com/roll/319522 29)

Last edited at 15/08/24(Mon)17:50:32

Torinn's upwards-swooping strike catches the dragon under the neck, catching it by surprise as the dragonborn once again engages the fleeing dragon. "But... how am I supposed to reach it all the way over there?!" Gilgamesh complains. Torinn's snarling threat seems to distract the dragon, but only just barely, as it seems rather focused on escape rather than battle now.

This focus leaves it distracted as two more chains fire out of the tower and ensnare both wings. Thrilvian lets loose a wailing roar as it is pulled fifty feet and slams into the tower wall, the chains completely enveloping its body. As it struggles futility against its bonds, the man with the canaries directs the golden dragon to take wing and close the gap between it and the green dragon, though it falls victim to a desperate gaze attack, which lures it just slightly in the wrong direction. Noting that Torinn and Rutger seem to be suffering ill effects from the dragon's poisonous blood, the man gestures, cleanses them of this lingering affliction.

"Keep it snared! I will man the dragonkiller!" Tarhun commands, rushing into the tower.

Torinn drops his shield and holds his longsword two-handed. Torinn moves, then uses flyby attack, hitting with his melee basic attack for 32 damage.
Guard 3 uses a snare on Thrilvian, and hits, pulling the green dragon adjacent to the tower. The dragon is restrained.
Torinn ends his turn adjacent to the green dragon and takes ongoing 10 poison damage (save ends). Rutger is also affected.
Guard 4 uses another snare on the dragon, and hits, which makes it more difficult for the dragon to escape.
Thrivlian is unable to use flyby attack because it is restrained.
The man with the canaries moves the gold dragon spirit twice, and uses Bahamut's cleansing on Torinn and Rutger, removing their ongoing poison damage.
Thrilvian fails to escape from the snare twice. He uses luring gaze and hits the gold dragon spirit, sliding it 3 squares.
Vanquisher Tarhun runs twice, and enters the tower.

Initiative
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Instinctive Flyby): 44
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 40
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): 34
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22
Guards and Fiona (Allies): 10

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (Mounted) 56/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's blessing, +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): (AF/AG-26/27, Elevation 10/11) 30/44 HP, Bahamut's blessing
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 2 canaries remaining
Vanquisher Tarhun (Ally): (Inside the tower) 199/294 HP, resist 10 poison, blood of the dragon, Bahamut's blessing
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -16 HP
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -31 HP
Fiona (Non-combatant): (Escaped) -10 HP
Gold Dragon Spirit 1 (Summoned Ally): (O/P-33/34) 95/120 HP, 34 all defenses, Bahamut's blessing

Enemies
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): (T/V-37/39, Elevation 8/10) -417 HP (Bloodied), challenged (Torinn), glowring threat, restrained

Notes
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.
Vanquisher's Presence gives allies in the aura 5 a +1 power bonus to speed and +3 power bonus to healing surge value. Bloodied allies in the aura gain a +5 bonus to damage rolls.
Blood of the dragon gives Vanquisher Tarhun a +2 bonus to attack rolls and allows him to use dragon breath at-will.

>>77438
With his health restored, Torinn prepares himself for the worst as he puts away his sunblade. He draws the greatsword Nightfall from his pack, somehow returned to its original form, and wields it.

As scary as the circumstances surrounding it are, right now it just seems like a very big, sharp sword. And that's what Torinn needs. Rutger whinnies as Torinn clutches the heavy sword in both hands, wind surging past as they rush forward and upward, towards the downed dragon without providing it any cover. From above, Torinn descends upon the dragon like the wrath of an angry god and smites it with the terrible greatsword.

Put away Sunblade, draw Nightfall
Move to AA/AB-34/35 elevation 12
Charge Thrilvian with Ardent Strike using Nightfall at X/Y-38/39 elevation 8, but do not sanction http://orokos.com/roll/319551 (42, 29)
Rain of Steel damage roll: http://orokos.com/roll/319554 (27)

Torinn takes the Fell King's greatsword in his hands, and contrary to his concerns, he feels no darkness attempting to overpower his mind. The blade strikes true as Rutger carries him forward and he drives it into the dragon's exposed neck, spilling more of its poisonous blood against the tower wall--and exposing himself to a bit more of it, which seems quite bad for his health.

There is a cranking noise inside as the snares are wound to attempt to restrain the dragon against its attempts to escape. The gold dragon spirit is soundless, but opens its mouth as if roaring as it dives back towards Thrilvian and slashes a spiritual claw across the green dragon's flank. Torinn's fighting stance allows him to rain yet another blow down upon the green dragon, Nightfall slashing scales off the dragon as easily as peeling an apple. Thrilvian determines that continuing to struggle against these snares is pointless, and he opens his maw, tendrils of green gaseous poison wrapping themselves together within. Torinn is forced back by the dragon's powerful, charming gaze, and then both he and Rutger are briefly overwhelmed by the enormous cloud of poison that strikes them with full-force, before he feels the man with the canaries restoring the vigor of both himself and his mount.

Despite this, however, the lingering effects of the breath's poison continue to sap away at Torinn's reserves of strength. Then, suddenly, an enormous metal bolt is loosed from slightly higher in the tower--Torinn spots Tarhun manning what appears to be a giant harpoon gun on one of the tower's defensive windows, which has just opened. The metal bolt strikes the dragon in the neck, and Thrilvian reels in pain from the blow. "I will see your body broken across the parapets of this city, dragon!" the vanquisher snarls.

Gilgamesh jogs towards the tower, and yells, "That blade! That is surely the blade I seek!" He points up towards Torinn as he says this, and Hildibrand appears shocked.

Torinn draws Nightfall, then moves and charges Thrilvian with ardent strike. He hits for 29 damage. Torinn ends his turn in the aura and takes ongoing 10 poison damage (save ends), as does Rutger.
The guards maintain the snares to hold the dragon in place.
Thrilvian is still unable to use instinctive flyby due to being restrained.
The man with the canaries commands his gold dragon spirit to move then attack, hitting for 30 damage. The man with the canaries readies an action. Thrilvian takes 27 damage from rain of steel.
Thrilvian attempts to escape, but fails. Thrilvian uses luring gaze on Torinn, sliding him 3 squares (reduced to 2). Thrilvian uses breath weapon, hitting Torinn and Rutger for 23 poison damage (Rutger reduces to 13), and both take ongoing 15 poison damage and are slowed (save ends both). The man with the canaries uses his readied action of bahamut's mercy, allowing both Torinn and Rutger to spend a healing surge, Torinn regains 50 hit points and Rutger regains 36 hit points. This ongoing damage overwrites the previous ongoing 10 damage.
Vanquisher Tarhun fires a dragonkiller. It is a hit because the dragon is double-snared, and Thrilvian takes 88 damage.
At the start of Torinn's turn, he and Rutger take ongoing 15 poison damage (Rutger reduces to 5).

Initiative
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Instinctive Flyby): 44
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 34+1
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): 34
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22
Guards and Fiona (Allies): 10

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (Mounted) 69/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's blessing, +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel, ongoing 15 poison damage and slowed (save ends both)
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): (X/Y-36/37, Elevation 6/7) 39/44 HP, resist 5 to all damage, 10 against area and close attacks, Bahamut's blessing, ongoing 15 poison damage and slowed (save ends both)
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 2 canaries remaining
Vanquisher Tarhun (Ally): (Inside the tower) 199/294 HP, resist 10 poison, blood of the dragon, Bahamut's blessing
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -16 HP
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -31 HP
Fiona (Non-combatant): (Escaped) -10 HP
Gold Dragon Spirit 1 (Summoned Ally): (R/S-37/38, Elevation 8) 95/120 HP, 34 all defenses, Bahamut's blessing

Enemies
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): (T/V-37/39, Elevation 8/10) -591 HP (Bloodied), challenged (Torinn), glowring threat, restrained

Notes
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.
Vanquisher's Presence gives allies in the aura 5 a +1 power bonus to speed and +3 power bonus to healing surge value. Bloodied allies in the aura gain a +5 bonus to damage rolls.
Blood of the dragon gives Vanquisher Tarhun a +2 bonus to attack rolls and allows him to use dragon breath at-will.

>>77440
Close enough to victory now, Torinn presses on in spite of the danger to his health. Unfortunately, his reckless cleave fails to hit the dragon this time, though he prepares to attack again if the golden dragon attacks Thrilvian. Rather than let this be all, Torinn uses his holy symbol to force the dragon to obey his code of honor - it cannot attack his mount or his allies, only him. Shaking off the worst of the affliction, Torinn growls, "No tricks, no deception, no escape - your life ends here, Thrilvian; I'll make it quick."

Move to W/X-36/37
Miss with Bedeviling Assault http://orokos.com/roll/319574 but get an attack if an ally hits with a melee attack
Use Symbol of the Champion's Code on the dragon
Saving throws http://orokos.com/roll/319576 (13, 14)
Rain of Steel damage: http://orokos.com/roll/319575 (23)

Last edited at 15/08/24(Mon)20:35:09

Torinn's holy symbol glows as he calls upon its power and closes with the green dragon once more. Torinn again swings Nightfall, but his inexperience with the blade works against him, and he can't make it penetrate the dragon's toughened exterior, even with his god's blessing and it being unable to dodge due to the restraints. However, a fire enters Torinn's eyes, and he looks ready to strike again, soon.

The guards continue to crank the snares to keep the dragon restrained, and it thrashes wildly, yelling, "NO! You cannot keep me like this forever, feeble creatures! I will escape and have my revenge!" As the gold dragon again lashes out towards the chromatic dragon, Torinn attempts to strike in tandem, but his blade again can't find its mark. Finally, Torinn holds the blade overhead and brings it down as he feels the last bits of the dragon's poison cleansed from from his body. This blow strikes true, and Torinn can feel the green dragon's gaze fix itself on his face.

"Bring it over here! I'll stick it in its belly!" Gilgamesh boasts, as Torinn again finds himself charmed away from Thrilvian by his enchanting gaze. Rather than lash out this time around, the dragon twists its body savagely and utterly breaks both snares, flapping away from the tower and roaring.

"Belay that! Get those snares back on the dragon!" Tarhun orders, reloading the dragonkiller for another shot.

Torinn moves and uses symbol of the champion's code on Thrilvian.
Torinn uses bedeviling assault but misses Thrilvian. He gains the effect until the end of the encounter.
Torinn and Rutger succeed on their saving throws, and are thus only slowed (save ends). They end their turns in the aura and take ongoing 10 poison damage.
Guards maintain the snares. Thrilvian cannot use instinctive flyby as a result of snares.
Man with the canaries uses bahamut's cleansing to remove slow from Torinn and Rutger. He uses it again to remove their ongoing poison damage. The gold dragon spirit attacks and hits for 31 damage. Torinn's melee basic attack misses Thrilvian. The man with the canaries readies an action.
Thrilvian begins its turn and takes 23 damage from rain of steel. Thrilvian uses luring gaze on Torinn, sliding him 2 squares. Thrilvian attempts to escape, and breaks one of the snares. Thrilvian attempts to escape again, and breaks another snare. Thrilvian is no longer snared.
Tarhun readies an action.

Initiative
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Instinctive Flyby): 44
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): 34+1
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): 34
Vanquisher Tarhun (Opponent): 28
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 22
Guards and Fiona (Allies): 10

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (Mounted) 69/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's blessing, +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel, bedeviling assault
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): (T/U-34/35, Elevation 6/7) 39/44 HP, resist 5 to all damage, 10 against area and close attacks, Bahamut's blessing
The Man with the Canaries (Ally): (N-13) incorporeal form, 2 canaries remaining
Vanquisher Tarhun (Ally): (Inside the tower) 199/294 HP, resist 10 poison, blood of the dragon, Bahamut's blessing, readied action
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -16 HP
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -31 HP
Fiona (Non-combatant): (Escaped) -10 HP
Gold Dragon Spirit 1 (Summoned Ally): (R/S-37/38, Elevation 8) 95/120 HP, 34 all defenses, Bahamut's blessing

Enemies
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): (U/W-37/39, Elevation 8/10) -645 HP (Bloodied), challenged (Torinn), glowring threat, symbol of the champion's code

Notes
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.
Vanquisher's Presence gives allies in the aura 5 a +1 power bonus to speed and +3 power bonus to healing surge value. Bloodied allies in the aura gain a +5 bonus to damage rolls.
Blood of the dragon gives Vanquisher Tarhun a +2 bonus to attack rolls and allows him to use dragon breath at-will.

>>77442
Torinn curses his poor aim and attacks the dragon again, no longer able to prevent its escape if it flees. While he has his defenses bolstered, he can't say the same about anything else if the dragon gets loose. To anyone who is still within earshot and able to act, even Gilgamesh, Torinn yells, "TAKE THE SHOT, NOW!"

Move to X/Y-38/39 Elevation 8
Attack with Brash Strike http://orokos.com/roll/319613 (37, 30) and gain +5 to defenses
Rain of Steel http://orokos.com/roll/319614 (26)
diplomacy on gil, maybe http://orokos.com/roll/319618 (31)

Torinn rides his flying horse back into melee with the dragon. Now more comfortable with the size and weight of the heavier weapon, he slashes the dragon's head down the middle, and again feels the poisonous vapors from the dragon's blood begin to sap at his strength. He maintains his resolve in the face of the terrible beast, however, even as the two guards again try to ensnare the creature.

Thrilvian manages to dodge out of the way of one of the snares, but the other again grasps its wing and pulls it against the tower wall, restraining it once more. Even as it writhes and spits, Tarhun fires another heavy bolt from the dragonkiller, this one piercing the dragon right in its heart. It lets loose a terrifying scream, then stops moving, its tongue lolling out of its mouth in a rather undignified position.

"Ha-HA! Well then!" Gilgamesh yells, grinning and cheering. "That was quite the spectacle!" Tarhun's face darkens as he again looks at the spear in the hands of the giant man, and he begins to make his way down the tower steps.

"We shall meet again..." the man with the canaries whispers to Torinn, before vanishing into thin air--though not before the dragonborn feels the poison cleansed from his veins one final time.

Torinn moves and then uses brash strike, hitting for 30 damage and gaining a +5 bonus to all defenses against Thrilvian until the end of his next turn.
Torinn and Rutger are now taking ongoing 10 poison damage (save ends).
Guard 3 hits the snare but Guard 4 misses the snare. The dragon is again pulled in and restrained until escape.
Tarhun fires a dragonkiller, hitting Thrilvian for 96 damage, killing the dragon outright.
The man with the canaries uses bahamut's cleansing to remove the ongoing poison from Torinn and Rutger, then vanishes.

Final Stats

Players and Allies
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): (Mounted) 69/89 HP, resist 5 necrotic, Bahamut's blessing, +5 power bonus to damage rolls, rain of steel, bedeviling assault, +5 to all defenses against Thrilvian
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): (X/Y-38/39, Elevation 8/9) 39/44 HP, resist 5 to all damage, 10 against area and close attacks, Bahamut's blessing
Vanquisher Tarhun (Ally): (Inside the tower) 199/294 HP, resist 10 poison, blood of the dragon, Bahamut's blessing, readied action
Dragonborn Guard 1 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 2 (Neutral): (Escaped)
Dragonborn Guard 3 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -16 HP
Dragonborn Guard 4 (Neutral): (Inside the Tower) -31 HP
Fiona (Non-combatant): (Escaped) -10 HP
Gold Dragon Spirit 1 (Summoned Ally): (R/S-37/38, Elevation 8) 95/120 HP, 34 all defenses, Bahamut's blessing

Enemies
Thrilvian, Elder Green Dragon (Enemy): (U/W-37/39, Elevation 8/10) -771 HP (Bloodied), challenged (Torinn), restrained DEAD

Notes
The Man with the Canaries can expend one canary per round to make an attack that hits instead miss. The Man with the Canaries is cannot be perceived in any way except by Torinn.
Bahamut's Blessing gives a +10 bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and skill checks.
Vanquisher's Presence gives allies in the aura 5 a +1 power bonus to speed and +3 power bonus to healing surge value. Bloodied allies in the aura gain a +5 bonus to damage rolls.
Blood of the dragon gives Vanquisher Tarhun a +2 bonus to attack rolls and allows him to use dragon breath at-will.

>>77444
Torinn watches the dragon until he's satisfied that it won't wake again. When he is, he sheathes Nightfall and lets out a sigh of tremendous relief. The departure of his god leaves him slightly drained, and well aware of just how hard he pushed himself in the short period of time.

Giving Rutger a deserved pat on the head, Torinn directs his mount back to solid ground to take a breather. There's still loose ends to be tied up here, after all.

try to initiate short rest

As Torinn lands Rutger on the bridge and begins to rest, Gilgamesh slowly maneuvers his weapon back into a fighting stance. "Now, Torinn Tormine, are you ready to battle?!" Pointing at the greatsword, the red-garbed giant adds, "The stakes are your weapon against mine! Nightfall against Ascalon!"

"And who are you to gamble with a national treasure of Tymanther?!" Tarhun growls, storming his way out of the tower and pointing at Gilgamesh. "Thief! Hand over that weapon immediately!"

Gilgamesh seems momentarily taken aback by this accusation, then says, "I am no thief! I earned this weapon in a duel with a dragon-masked warrior!"

"Ah, the cultist..." Hildibrand chimes in, but then looks to Nashu in confusion.

"But inspector... didn't we already...?" the half-elf says, tilting her head in confusion. But before she can continue this thought, they are both distracted as Tarhun walks right up to Gilgamesh, grabs one end of the spear, and begins trying to yank it right out of the giant's hands.

"Unhand this weapon, mongrel!" the vanquisher demands.

"This weapon is mine by right! Let go!" Gilgamesh protests.

"I have to side with Tarhun on this," Torinn admits, dismounting from Rutger before joining the conflict, "and this was stolen, not won, by the people you defeated." Torinn adds his strength to the Vanquisher's, saying, "If someone took your things using underhanded methods, and I beat the thief, would that make your things mine?"

strength check aid another: http://orokos.com/roll/319710 (21)
diplomacy: http://orokos.com/roll/319712 (29)

Last edited at 15/08/25(Tue)09:30:39

As the two dragonborn work to try and pry the greatspear from Gilgamesh's hands, Hildibrand interjects, "Ah, excuse me..." He reaches to his side, and pulls out a magic bag that appears to be a bag of holding. From it, he pulls out a spear that looks very much like Gilgamesh's--except that the purple tip appears to be covered in blood, and blood seems to stream endlessly from its tip to the ground. It seems to pool on the ground only for a few seconds before disappearing, which you can see clearly as the inspector holds out the spear.

Gilgamesh goes rigid with shock upon viewing this new spear, and while Tarhun stops pulling on the spear in Gilgamesh's hands, he keeps hold of it. The vanquisher's expression seems more than a little annoyed.

"Nashu, Greg, and I were poking around the vaults where the spear was said to be hidden, and I, ah, 'discovered' a secret passage," Hildibrand explains. "Greg got really excited at that point, since I brought up Tormin, and ran off, but Nashu and I stayed for a bit longer to explore the secret passage, and we stumbled across an even more hidden chamber, with this spear inside!" Looking to Tarhun, he says, "Vanquisher, I think you have a traitor in your midst, who was hiding the spear right under your nose!"

"No, you fool," Tarhun growls. "I was the one who hid the real Ascalon in the secret vaults."

"And you let the fake get stolen, so you could lure out the Cult of the Dragon, right?" a voice continues. The group turns to see Fiona walking towards the tower, with several guards in tow. She notices the corpse of the green dragon pinned to the tower walls, then goes on, "That answers the last question I had--you couldn't have been blind to the activities of the Cult of the Dragon in the capital, so why weren't you doin' anythin' about it? But it seems you had a plan all along."

"It didn't go quite as planned, because of... interference," Tarhun explains dryly, fixing an annoyed stare in the direction of Gilgamesh.

"Well, uh, well then!" Gilgamesh stammers, looking more than a bit perplexed. "This is a bit... awkward!"

>>77448
With that explanation, Torinn finally pieces together what's going on. A decoy that was stolen, mistaken for the real thing not once, but twice. And now, with the dragon dead, it seems safe. The Cult of the Dragon lost a powerful ally today.

There's just one more issue.

"So... where is the Golden Narwhal?" asks Torinn.

"That... that's the one missin' piece of the puzzle," Fiona admits, looking a bit defeated. "There's not a lotta go on, except that we know the Cult of the Dragon had it. And probably used it ta curry favor wit' those green dragons."

Tarhun releases his grip on Gilgamesh's fake spear, and the red-garbed giant just looks thoroughly confused at this point. Hildibrand chimes in, gesturing with the true Ascalon, "Ah, but Fifi! Those adventurers that killed Tarnazek probably looted the dragon's hoard! If we follow their trail, we'll probably find wherever they bartered off the Golden Narwhal!"

"Torinn Tormine," Tarhun says gruffly, suddenly grabbing Ascalon out of the inspector's hands, then turning to face the dragonborn paladin. "I don't agree with your... philosophy, I suppose, concerning dragons. I still want Tymanther to have nothing to do with those conniving fiends. But the honor duel... well, I think our original point is moot now. So, I will clear your name, and the name of your family, in the eyes of Tymanther. You have earned that much." Throwing the bloody greatspear over his shoulder, he then adds, "But it's still probably for the best if you don't stay here. There aren't many who will look too fondly on your... beliefs."

"We still don't know the cult's deal, either. We've slowed them down here, but I think there's somethin' bigger goin' on," Fiona points out. "Torinn, I think you should look into that part. You're better suited to tangling with the Cult of the Dragon. The inspector and I can follow the trail of the Golden Narwhal... as much as I can't say I'm looking forward to the experience." She shoots a tired gaze towards Hildibrand, who simply gives her a shiny, toothy grin.

"Ah, Torinn... I think perhaps our duel will need to be postponed, at this point," Gilgamesh stammers, taking a small step back. "I need to make... preparations!"

>>77450
Torinn doesn't have anything he can say to Tarhun. Not after that pardon. Not after getting what he'd worked for.

Almost everything. The Golden Narwhal is still missing, and as Fiona pointed out, the culprits are still at large.

So Torinn simply salutes the Vanquisher, putting as much effort into it as he can manage. And says nothing further to him.

To the others, though, Torinn has a few words. "Right, I'll do that," he assures Fiona, "I owe them that much for what they've done, and not just to me."

"And as for you," Torinn says severely at the retreating Gilgamesh... then smiles as an idea comes to him, before he continues more pleasantly, "you seem like you would know some very interesting stories and legends." He quickly adds, "possibly even lived a few." And then he gets to the important part: "If it's alright with you, I'd like to hear some of them while traveling."

Diplomacy to persuade Gilgamesh to travel and talk about things: http://orokos.com/roll/319890 (22)

Last edited at 15/08/25(Tue)18:23:55

"You... want me to come with you?!" Gilgamesh asks incredulously. "Well, er... it seems my plans recently fell through, so, maybe for a time...?" he suggests, looking at the fake spear in his hand. "You'll surely be headed somewhere interesting, yes? I will need to... collect some information, for my next quest! And then, perhaps, we can finally have our duel!"

Tarhun nods to Torinn, then moves over to the guards that followed Fiona up to the platform. Fiona looks uneasily at the inspector and Nashu--the inspector is posing, and the half-elf is cheering him on.

>>77452
Torinn grabs his dropped shield and heads back. He has to stop for a while, though. Inspector Hildebrand's actions make him clutch his stomach and laugh for a while, as the absurdity of everything that happened that day finally catches up to him. That, and a sense of relief that his family will be okay. It has the paladin laughing harder than he has in quite some time.

"Alright... alright, I'm good. I'm ready now."

When he's done, he's still grinning, and, as he starts heading out of the city with his unusual travelling mate, he reflects on what an interesting day it's been.

Last edited at 15/08/25(Tue)19:22:30

As this absurd and epic day draws to a close, Torinn prepares to head out on adventure with a new and unusual traveling companion. The trail of the Cult of the Dragon is still warm, and it's best not to let it sit for too long, as it will soon lead the paladin back to the Sword Coast--to old friends, new acquaintances, and both familiar and strange locales.

Perhaps the most memorable thing about this day is the intervention of Torinn's patron deity. Though his aid was most welcome, Torinn does have to wonder: is this an omen of things to come? Are matters in the mortal world really getting so severe that the gods themselves must intervene directly? What exactly is the Cult of the Dragon -doing- that is so important?

In the Well of Dragons, a force far older than even Bahamut stirs... and beckons.