Tidehollow's Challenge

Tidehollow's Challenge

Player DM: Xenarchy

Participants

Scoring: One point is earned per level of the summoning spell. Half of the points are subtracted for winning one round early. Totals are rounded down. No points are gained for a victory in the first round, a loss by defeat or a time out. Only a participant's best score is counted.

Hilal - Human Fighter 2 - Best Score: 0

Kirutas - Egalrin Ranger 2 - Best Score: 0

Jinks - Gnome Bard 4 - Best Score: 0

Jareth - Human Fighter 10 - Best Score: 0

Garthos - Human Fighter 4 - Best Score: 2

Owen - Human Cleric 3 - Best Score: 3

Mikilos - Dawn-elf Wizard 5 - Best Score: 0

The Scene Begins

"Welcome, challenger!" comes the augmented voice of Conjurer-Majestrix Tidehollow, calling from an elaborate raised platform on one side of the arena. She is a woman of austere appearance, regal and stately in a fashion that tells of deep confidence in her arcane power. The long robes of her office sit well on her.

"You have agreed to test not only your skill at battle, but your skill at knowing yourself. Even in strength, knowledge is power," she says, very much playing up key words in this tourney largely dominated by feats of physical force. "Once you have entered the ring, leaving it will be a forfiet. You must choose one of the flags laid out on the ground and raise it above your head. Each has a number of bands on it from one to nine, indicating the strength of the creature I will summon. When the signal is given to start, you will have twenty seconds to defeat the creature. If you defeat it earlier than the last five seconds, you will gain fewer points. Time your battle well. Know your skill and strength. May you make Angoron proud!"

Tidehollow gestures with a flourish and the ring, 60 feet across, lights up with a fiery green light at the edges. The nine flags are laid out in the middle. "Come, take your flag and raise it. Choose wisely."

Hilal vs Summon Monster II: Fiendish Giant Ant (worker)

And so stands Hilal, a young man recently freed from the rigors of enslavement, in the center of the ring. Although the chance to attain notoriety might hurt his escape from Veyshan in the end, he needed the coin. And the reputation may help him find further employment. He nods silently in acknowledgement to Conjurer-Majestrix Tidehollow in acknowledgement of her power and the rules.

He then makes his way to the flag with only a pair of bands on it and raises it over his head to the cheers of the crowd.

GAME: Hilal rolls 1d9: (1): 1

"Very well," says the Conjurer-Majestrix. "You will face a creature kin to the tiniest of vermin yet more vast and powerful. Fight well and prove yourself a master of your own strength." She incants her conjuration and a plume of green light issues forth from the ground. A giant ant the size of a pony crawls out of the aether and clicks its scissor-like mandibles. Tidehollow calls out, "Begin!" An assistant nearby invokes an illusion of a timer above the battlefield, the seconds ticking away.

Round 1

Hilal attacks the ant.
GAME: Hilal rolls melee+2: (6)+5+2: 13

No stranger to magic, but a stranger to conjuration, Hilal still manages to react swiftly. He slides into range of the giant ant and brings his sword about in a broad arc, it's decorated blade gleaming in the sunlight. His weapon strikes true, but it's only a glancing blow, dealing no damage to the ant while his blade slides awkwardly off of it's chitin.

The ant attacks Hilal.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+3: (13)+3: 16

The ant is unfazed by the strike and lunges forward with its mandibles, clicking and chittering. Just as Hilal was unable to pierce the chitinous creature, it fails to bite through his armour. Tidehollow watches the battle impassively. "Twelve seconds remain!" the assistant announces.

Round 2

Hilal attacks the ant with sword and shield.
GAME: Hilal rolls melee+2-2: (4)+5+2+-2: 9
GAME: Hilal rolls melee-2: (8)+5+-2: 11

Hilal is definitely out of his element here. The bite fortunately didn't break his armor, allowing him to disengage momentarily and not be crushed by it's mandibles. He responds by coming back in with a spinning attack, first his sword and then shield coming in an overhead arc to try and smash through the exoskeleton on it's head. Instead, his sword swings wild, passing between it's mandibles. His shield strikes true, but is unable to even faze the giant insect.

The ant attacks Hilal.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+3: (8)+3: 11

It's not going well for either combatant. The ant, in its mindless attack, pushes forward under Hilal's assault and latches its mandibles onto one leg. They scrape off and release him, leaving no more than some scuff marks on the armour. "Tarien is laughing on this battle, I see," says the Conjurer-Majestrix from above. The crowd is in a roar of amusement as well, at this slapstick combat. "Five seconds!" shouts the assistant.

Round 3

Hilal attacks the ant with sword and shield.
GAME: Hilal rolls melee+2-2: (6)+5+2+-2: 11
GAME: Hilal rolls melee-2: (14)+5+-2: 17
GAME: Hilal rolls 1d3+1: (2)+1: 3

Hilal's sword is thrust this time, but still unable to fully penetrate the giant ant's armor. It does leave just enough of a crack for Hilal to actually slam against it with his shield again, causing actual damage with the edge of the protective piece. But not much. And not enough for this challenge.

The ant attacks hilal.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+3: (16)+3: 19

The ant fares no better, striking forward with its mandibles and scraping off the flat surface of Hilal's shield. After its attack, a horn blares loudly and Tidehollow dismisses the creature. It effervesces away in a plume of green. "You fought admirably and I observed your talent, but Angoron did not bless you today. Rest well and you may attempt this challenge another time." The light at the edge of the ring fades and the Conjurer-Majestrix dismisses Hilal with a wave.

Hilal sheathes his blade and bows before he exists the arena. He does all he can to just shrug off the jeers of the audience, but the look on his face screams his discontent and declares the he often wonders whether the gods truly bless everyone but him.

Hilal's Match Ends

Result: Loss by time out. (0 points)

Kirutas vs Summon Monster I: Fiendish Eagle

The Egalrin challenger makes his way to the center of the arena, slanted eyes focused on the conjurer up on her high stage. He pressed on hand flat to the chest plates of his leather armor and offers a subtle bow of his torso and head. "I am here to challenge," he states, and in an uncharacteric move, plays it safe as he plucks out a flag with a single band on it. He raises it over his head in signal he's ready.

GAME: Kirutas rolls 1d5: (2): 2

Tidehollow notes Kirutas' flag and says, "Are you ready to pit yourself against a creature akin to you? Which winged warrior will prevail?" Her summoning manifests in a plume of green fire. A great, white-winged eagle bursts forth from the spell. "May Angoron find you in his favour. Begin!" The illusory timer manifests above the battlefield, counting down toward zero.

Round 1

The eagle attacks Kirutas.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+3: (19)+3: 22
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d4: (2): 2
GAME: Xenarchy damaged Kirutas for 2 points. 17 remaining.

The eagle is quick to the combat, surging forward on the air and plunging its talons into the egalrin. The spell upon this battlefield keeps the injury from being a lasting one, but the pain is no less real. The crowd cheers at this battle between feathered combatants.

Kirutas takes a five foot step back and attacks the eagle.
GAME: Kirutas rolls 1d20+5: (9)+5: 14
GAME: Kirutas rolls 1d8+2: (7)+2: 9

Kirutas snaps his attention to the eagle that appears, his eyes widen just a tad as he sees something so similar to himself. But all other thoughts are cast aside when the creature dives at him, taking a nip of his exposed feathers and skin. He manages to sidestep and backpedal away as it starts to flail it's wings, lifting his sturdy longbow, drawing back the heavy string with an arrow notched and sends the lethal wooden shaft directly into the other bird's body. His face is quickly covered by his free forearm once the bright green light bursts in front of him, then lowers it again to see his target ... gone. "...Hm.."

The timer vanishes and the assistant blows the trumpet to signal the end of the match. The Conjurer-Majestrix smiles down at Kirutas after the summoned creature receives that single strike. "You show greater prowess than you know. Your conservative choice of opponent earned you no victory here, for this is a challenge of self-awareness." She bows and gestures for him to leave the ring. The light around it fades. "Be mindful of your strengths, that they may serve you better. If you choose to try again, consider a greater test of your skill."

Kirutas' Match Ends

Result: Victory two rounds early. (0 points)

Jinks vs Summon Monster II: Lemure

Coyote laughs. The little gnome is no holyman but he can't but think the trickster had a hand in this, manipulative prick that he is. Swaggering for everything that he's worth, Jinks steps out onto the field of battle with his bow already in hand and a toothy grin threatening to split his goatee in twain.

A twist and a toss sends a sack of coin through the air and into the eager paws of gobber clad in techno-enhance armor. They exchange a brief, snarky bit fo dialogue and then the gnome eyes the flags laid out on the ground. He selects the second-simplest option, lifts it over his head briefly, and then tosses it out before him and past the others. "As Luck would have it," he mutters.

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d9: (8): 8

"What is more thrilling than the heroic vanquishing the dark and depraved?" calls Tidehollow, gesticulating dramatically. "Noble sir, give us a show of good versus evil and strike down this beast with impeccable timing and skill." The green fire bursts into the ring and a shambling thing of churning flesh spews out onto the ground. The crowd issues a unified gasp. "Begin!" A timer cast by illusion appears in the sky over the ring, counting down toward the match's end.

Round 1

GAME: Jinks casts Glitterdust.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+0: (11)+0: 11

Jinks erupts in laughter when the fat boils out of the ground and forms up into the lowest order of infernal. "You smile on me tonight." His beringed fingers slide into a pouch and he sings a worldless melody, flicking his hand forward to produce a brilliant explosion over the sluggish beast. A good distance away from the blinded creature coated in diamonds' dust, the gnome manages to look supremely confident.

New save vs glitterdust.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+0: (12)+0: 12

The fleshy mass ambles forward on knotty lumps and half-formed limbs. It groans mournfully and paws at its eyes, trundling in the direction it last saw Jinks. "Well done," says Conjurer-Majestrix Tidehollow, smirking lightly. "You have clouded its senses, but can you defeat it before the time is up?" She glances up at the timer, showing thirteen seconds remaining.

Round 2

Jinks shoots the lemure with a silver arrow.
GAME: Jinks used a Arrow.
GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (17)+9: 26
GAME: Jinks rolls 1d4+2: (4)+2: 6

He slides away from the lumbering mass, neatly side-stepping its lunge. His grin only grows wider when he pulls free the ammunition. The missile's head is sparkling, treated with alchemical silver at its tip for just such an occasion. "What ruthless bastard of a god did you forsake?" He wonders as draws back on the bow. It's a short shot -- likely something he could make with his eyes closed -- and the specialized ammunition causes the flesh to boil, blacken and burst where it tears through. Overfull of confidence, the gnome can't help but laugh again.

The lemure makes an acrobatics check to not fall while moving at full speed while blind.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+0: (15)+0: 15

The lemure attacks Jinks.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+0: (19)+0: 19
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d100: (63): 63
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d4: (4): 4
GAME: Xenarchy damaged Jinks for 4 points. 17 remaining.

New save vs glitterdust.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+0: (15)+0: 15

Following the direction the arrow came from, the lemure ambles, spilling ooze from the wound and almost rolling as it fumbles in the gnome's direction. By luck, it slashes out with crude, broken claws and hooks into him despite its blindness. The creature gasps still, wiping its face with the mushy paws. Tidehollow nods at Jinks' performance. "Your wounds will fade in mere hours. This arena's magic will make sure you are in no lethal danger, but you are in danger of losing this battle. Your attack was true, but can you complete your task in the few moments remaining?" The assistant calls out, "Five seconds!" to announce the match nearing its finish.

Round 3

Jinks shoots the lemure.
GAME: Jinks used a Arrow.
GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (7)+9: 16
GAME: Jinks rolls 1d4+2: (3)+2: 5

Five seconds? Pshaw! Plenty of time. Maybe he'll just drop here and take a brief nap first.

All joking aside, the gnome continues to scramble back and away from the mound of once-flesh. He taunts and teases it in a sing-song gnomish lilt. Finally finding his footing, he raises the bow again and lets fly another arrow. It flies true. Shears cleanly through the middle of the devil's face. Sadly, the resulting damage isn't enough to banish the creature from the material sphere. "Fall, damn you! Thul's rotted cock." He snarls.

The lemure flaps sadly at Jinks and then a trumpet sounds the end of the match. It boils away in green flame, leaving no trace. "A worthy attempt," says Tidehollow from above, "But not quite enough. I have watched several contestants try their skill here today, and yours has been the closest to a perfect victory so far. Alas, it was not quite enough. You may attempt this challenge again, after a time of rest." The Conjurer-Majestrix gives Jinks a wave of dismissal.

Jinks is issuing some other choice curses under his breath as the monster is dismissed, his dark eyes narrowed in contempt. He slings the bow on his back, shoulders tensed and manages to grunts out the notes of another spell before turning and stalking back the way he came. He has a gobber to find. And hit. And maybe kick a bit. Bet be damned, he wants his money back.

Jinks' Match Ends

Result: Loss by time out. (0 points)

Jareth vs Summon Monster V: Large Water Elemental

Standing at the edge of the ring, Jareth nods as he listens to the instructions. Eyeing the indicated flags, he considers them for a few moments and steps towards the middle, taking hold of the one with five bands and raising it above his head.

GAME: Jareth rolls 1d10: (6): 6
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d4: (4): 4

"An interesting choice," says Conjurer-Majestrix Tidehollow from her platform. "You call for power where you might battle in noble duel against angels or in vicious struggle against darker powers. Instead, you will engage with the power of the elements themselves!" She incants and from her plume of green flame a great amorphous shape rises. It bubbles and steams, surging in approximation of limbed form yet formed of roiling water. "Begin!" The timer appears above the ringed battlefield, an illusion counting down the seconds.

Round 1

Jareth full-attacks the elemental.
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+21: (4)+21: 25
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+15: (13)+15: 28
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+14: (20)+14: 34
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d8+11: (4)+11: 15
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d6+4: (3)+4: 7
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d8+11: (1)+11: 12

Standing before the summoned elemental being, Jareth taps his sword against the rim of his shield once in acknowledgement of his opponent. Suddenly, he explodes into motion. His sword cuts across what best approximates its torso, followed by his shield slamming into head and finished off with a thrust into its neck.

Jareth gets a free bull rush attempt.
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+19: (11)+19: 30

As he withdraws his sword, the Daeusite presses forward with his shield, rushing the elemental backwards towards the edge of the ring.

The elemental attacks Jareth.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+8: (8)+8: 16
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+8: (8)+8: 16

The crowd cheers as the warrior and elemental clash. The watery shape towers over him but appears on the back foot. Tidehollow comments, "A commendable start, but can you finish it in the time alloted?" Like a wave, the elemental crashes forward, columns of water thundering down around Jareth. It's impacts do little more than wet the man in the salty spray. "Twelve seconds remaining!" the assistant shouts.

Round 2

Jareth full-attacks the elemental.
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+19: (5)+19: 24
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+15: (6)+15: 21
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+14: (12)+14: 26
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d8+11: (5)+11: 16
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d6+4: (2)+4: 6
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d8+11: (4)+11: 15

Bull rush attempt.
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+19: (2)+19: 21

Raising his shield against the torrent of water, Jareth shakes the spray from his face before he renews his assault on the summoned entity. Again, the warrior's blade slashes through it here and there, and the stout shield smashing it back half a step.

The elemental attacks Jareth.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+8: (5)+8: 13
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+8: (11)+8: 19

Again, those formless shapes of pounding surf surge down on Jareth's shield. The elemental creature cannot break through the warrior's expert defense. "You are close, warrior of Daeus," says the Conjurer-Majestrix, "But the seconds are growing few and your opponent has fight left in it still." The timer shows four seconds left in the match.

Round 3

Jareth full-attacks the elemental.
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+19: (4)+19: 23
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+15: (10)+15: 25
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+14: (12)+14: 26
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d8+11: (4)+11: 15
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d6+4: (2)+4: 6
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d8+11: (8)+11: 19

Bull rush attempt.
GAME: Jareth rolls 1d20+19: (18)+19: 37

Jareth is relentless in his onslaught on the elemental. That blade with the symbol of Daeus on its pommel and the shield with that same symbol emblazoned on its face have proven their worth to the warrior as he cuts into his foe. One more slam forces the creature back even closer to the edge of the ring.

The crowd roars with cheer at this exciting battle. The elemental is nearly at its last and its form is pushed further and further toward the edge. The seconds count down. Three... two... The water elemental teeters, falling backward... One... ZERO! A trumpet blares and in that last moment before the creature exits the ring, Tidehollow dismisses it in a effervescing plume of green. "Amazing! Such a close battle I have never seen in my years. You have entertained the crowd greatly, good sir, and your efforts have no doubt pleased Angoron. However, you fell mere moments short of victory and so I compliment your skill but cannot award you for this match. Rest well, and you may attempt this challenge another time. May Angoron's strength be with you."

Jareth touches his sword to his brow in salute to the Conjurer, "I thank you for the praise and for the opportunity." and then to the crowd before walking out of the ring and sheathing the weapon.

Jareth's Match Ends

Result: Loss by time out. (0 points)

Garthos vs Summon Monster II: Fiendish Hyena

"Thanks for the chance." Garth calls to the woman, glancing over the flags in their neat little row upon the field. A moment of deliberation before he strides forth, plucking the one with a mere two bands across it. Perhaps playing it a little safe, and perhaps merely playing it smart for his first attempt. "Just a small request, yeah? Don't be summonin' any kind of angel type things on me unless they're Angoron's? Cause, I don't DO that kinda thing." he mentions. He won't fight a creature of light if it is unwilling to fight and forced by the magic, he means.

GAME: Garthos rolls 1d9: (7): 7

Tidehollow nods to Garthos and begins her incantation. "You will do battle with no force of heaven or hell, but a savage beast of nature! Fight well and make Angoron proud." The green flames plume into the ring and a spotted hyena emerges from the spell, cackling and grinning toothily at the warrior. "Begin!" The illusory timer above the battlefield starts counting down.

Round 1

The hyena attacks Garthos and attempts to trip him.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+3: (17)+3: 20
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+3: (2)+3: 5
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d6+3: (6)+3: 9
GAME: Xenarchy damaged Garthos for 9 points of subdual damage. 9 total.

The savage beast is quick to act, lunging forward into Garthos before he has a chance to react. It sinks its teeth into him and only thanks to the magic of the arena does it do no lasting harm. It still hurts, however. The hyena pulls on him, lacking the strength to throw him to the ground. "Be quick about yourself," says the Conjurer-Majestrix. "Can you turn the tide and throw down this beast before the time runs out?"

Garthos takes a total defense action.

Bitten savagely, Garth grasps his sword in a twohanded grip and, after a moment of deep pondering, chooses to... wait. His stance alters, raising the weapon protectively before him, ready to attempt to deflect the beast's next assault, eyes narrowed as he watches his shaggy opponent warily.

Round 2

The hyena attacks Garthos.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+3: (10)+3: 13

"I see you bide your time, trusting in your skill and strength to carry you to victory in the last moments," says Tidehollow. The hyena lunges and snaps at Garthos, this time unable to penetrate his canny defense. It growls and paces in front of him, trying to get an opening.

Garthos takes a total defense action.

"Looks a bit flimsy, yeah, lady. Fought one of these before, wasn't that tough." Garth calls out to Tidehollow, but his eyes remain focused on his opponent. "Angoron, guide my blade, 'tis in your name that I bear it to battle..." he begins to murmur a prayer into his chin, sword held protectively before him as he stands his ground.

Round 3

The hyena attacks Garthos and attempts to trip him.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+3: (19)+3: 22
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+3: (5)+3: 8
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d6+3: (5)+3: 8
GAME: Xenarchy damaged Garthos for 8 points of subdual damage. 17 total.

The hyena ducks under the warrior's defense and clamps its teeth around one leg, biting hard. It growls and pulls mightily, yet cannot topple him from his stance. The crowd roars, anticipating the end of this battle. Tidehollow smiles. "A risky gambit. Will Angoron's blessing fall on you for this bravery or will he scorn you for trusting to luck?" The seconds tick away. Five... four... three...

Garthos power-attacks attacks the hyena.
GAME: Garthos rolls 1d20+5+4+1+1: (8)+5+4+1+1: 19
GAME: Garthos rolls 2d6+15: (4)+15: 19

Garth's eyes flick to the clock, and in that moment there's a canine on his leg. He grits his teeth against the pain. "IRON MOUNTAIN, GRANT YOUR BLESSING!" he bellows, drowning out the assistant's final callout of time. The blade goes down in what seems like slow motion and with insane force behind it, cleaving the hyena in twine. Thankfully, instead of leaving a horrid mess, the summoned creature dissolves into green flames under the blow, vanishing from the field.

Garth blinks a bit, as if unsure if that was the time-out or his blade that did that.

A trumpet sounds, issuing sounds of victory fanfare. Tidehollow raises her arms. The crowd cheers at the triumph. "We have our first victor! Warrior, you have proven you know your strength and defeated the beast on the last second. Angoron surely smiles upon you. If you choose, after at time of rest you may return to seek a greater challenge." The green edge of the ring fades away.

Garth grins, offering a raise of his entirely too large (compensating for something?!) sword in a salute to the crowd and the summoner. "See ya soon!" he promises Tidehollow. And with that, he's sheathing the weapon and striding off the field.

Garthos' Match Ends

Result: Perfect victory. (2 points)

Owen vs Summon Monster III: Fiendish Leopard

Owen steps out into the arena, looking not quite happy about the situation, but not downright sullen. He listens to Tidehollow's words and steps towards the flags. He hesitates between the first, third, and second banded flags, going back and forth between them. After a deep breath, he reaches down and takes the third flag, holding it up. "Know this. I will not raise a hand against a creature from the Kingdom of Heaven."

GAME: Owen rolls 1d12: (11): 11

"They come to fight honourably in Angoron's name, but very well. You will duel no celestial agent. Here you will combat a paragon of natural strength, a wild beast," announces the Conjurer-Majestrix. She incants her summoning spell and a green plume of fire heralds a spotted wild cat, a lean and dangerous leopard.

Round 1

The leopard attacks Owen.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+6: (10)+6: 16

"Begin!" Tidehollow calls, and the timer appears above the arena to count the seconds. The leopard springs into action, leaping toward Owen and just barely missing him. It lands gracefully in front of him, growling and tail swaying.

GAME: Owen casts Sanctuary.

Owen's eyes widen. He wasn't expecting a creature to be on him that fast. But luckily, his chain shirt prevents him from being shredded entirely. He wards the summoned feline off with his staff, long enough to free up a hand so that he can call upon a prayer of protection from Althea.

Round 2

Will save vs sanctuary.

The jungle cat paces in front of Owen, watching him with golden eyes like it would stare at its prey. It rumbles a low growl, unable to comprehend why it can't just jump on him with claws and teeth. "You defend yourself well," says Tidehollow, "But mere survival will not earn you victory. You must defeat the beast." The time counts down. Eight seconds.

GAME: Owen casts Cause Fear.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+2: (10)+2: 12

Owen paces around the now non-threatening extraplanar feline, staff still at the ready should the creature overcome the spell. Once he has it cornered, in asmuch as something in a circular arena can be, he throws his staff forward as he casts his spell, "Know the wrath of Heaven's Queen and flee in shame at your sins!"

Round 3

The leopard has no idea what any of that means but it does seem to change its stance, now regarding Owen as some kind of more terrifying predator instead of something to munch on. The cat's ears flatten and it lowers itself, then darts directly away from the priest. As it passes beyond the permiter of the ring, the creature vanishes in green flame. The crowd is in a mix of cheers and murmuring confusion at the unusual but successful battle. Tidehollow claps. "You have won without striking a single blow, and with excellent timing. Congratulations. After a time of rest you may come and seek to test yourself against a greater challenge."

Owen dips his head, taking a bow, while raising the rosary wrapped around his wrist in the air. "Praise be to the Mithril Lady, the victory was hers." He pulls himself back up and walks out of the arena, sighing a deep breath of relief.

Owen's Match Ends

Result: Perfect victory. (3 points)

Mikilos vs Summon Monster III: Fiendish Cheetah

Mikilos pauses a moment at the edge of the ring to give a respectful bow of acknowledgement to magus Tidehollow before proceeding towards the flags. Stepping foreward, he picks up the third flag, and waves it high.

GAME: Mikilos rolls 1d12: (5): 5

The Conjurer-Majestrix invokes her spell, the ring's edge lighting with green as her summon manifests in the battlefield's centre. "You will be matched against wiry and agile beast, a hunting cat from the great savannahs. Can your thought and will defeat its natural cunning?" A lean spotted cat erupts from a plume of green fire and lands on all fours, issuing a sing-song noise, odd for a feline.

Round 1

The cheetah attacks Mikilos.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+6: (11)+6: 17
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d6+3: (2)+3: 5
GAME: Xenarchy damaged Mikilos for 5 points of subdual damage. 5 total.

Trip attempt.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+5: (19)+5: 24

The cheetah bounds forward, reacting in a flash. The fast animal leaps onto Mikilos, clamping hard with its teeth and pushing him down onto the dusty ground. The cat's bite does no permanent harm thanks to the arena's magic but the hurt is felt.

Mikilos makes a concentration check to cast color spray.
GAME: Mikilos rolls 1d20+5+5: (16)+5+5: 26

GAME: Mikilos casts color spray.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+2: (9)+2: 11
GAME: Mikilos rolls 1d4: (1): 1

Mikilos yelps at the large cat's sudden apperance and attack, and is swiftly brought to the ground. Overcomming his initial shock, the wizard focuses and fends off claws with one arm while the other draws a handful of sand from his pouch. A muttered phrase, and a blast of arcane illusion overwhelms the summon's sences, giving the elf a bit of breatheing room to scramble to his feet again, careful to move sideways, not backwards out of the circle.

Round 2

The cheetah stands there, stunned senseless and blind. It blinks and sways helplessly. Tidehollow looks on with a smile. "A fortuitous opening, but the time is ticking away. A merely disabled opponent is not enough for you to win." The seconds are counting down and the assistant calls out, "Twelve seconds remaining!"

GAME: Mikilos casts scorching ray.
GAME: Mikilos rolls 1d20+4: (17)+4: 21
GAME: Mikilos rolls 4d6: (14): 14

Mikilos winces some and tries not to favor the phantom wound too much. Still work to do before can relax. Murmruing another archane phrase, the wizard hesitates a short moment. He's a cat person, hurting such a noble example of feline-kind, even one trying to attack him, is not a plesant task. But, such is life. Finishing the spell, he points, and a blast of magical fire shoots from his fingertip, searing fur and flesh.

Round 3

Even pelted by searing fire, the cheetah is unable to shake itself out of this haze. It still stands there, blinking to try to dispel the effects of the colour spray from its eyes. The Conjurer-Majestrix says, "Your time is almost up. Can you grasp victory from the jaws of defeat in these last moments?" Four seconds remain on the clock...

GAME: Mikilos casts lightning bolt.
GAME: Mikilos rolls 5d6: (18): 18
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+7: (16)+7: 23

Mikilos frowns, eyeing the stunned feline a moment before spiting one more arcane chant. Holding out his hands, a ball of crackleing blue light hovers between them and instant before blasting forth in a powerful lightning bolt, sizzeling away more flesh and fur, but not quite dropping the summon. Though the wizard did take an instant of effort to keep noncombantants out of the line of fire, he's somewhat thankful to note the far end of the bolt fizzles at the line of the ring.

The assistant blows the trumpet to signal the end of the match, and the cat is still standing (albeit burned and scorched). Tidehollow dismisses the cheetah in effervescing green light. The crowd is suitably entertained by the flashy show of magic, especially the lightning bolt at the end! They cheer. The Conjurer Majestrix gestures appreciatively, "A wonderful show of magic and remarkably close at the end, but your spells did not earn you a victory today. Know yourself and your strengths, rest for a time, and you may return to make a second attempt." She waves to dismiss Mikilos from the field.

Mikilos nods with a faint smile, please with his showing, if not the final results. Bowing respectfully once more to the Conjurer Majestrix, he turns and exits the field, waving to the crowd as he departs.

Mikilos' Match Ends

Result: Loss by time out. (0 points)

Garthos vs Summon Monster IV: Hound Archon

"Hey again, lady." Garth, the uncouth hick of a man, calls out to the esteemed conjurer. "I'm sure ya remember me. Same as before, don't be summonin' anything that don't wanna fight, else I'm leavin' the ring soon as it starts, yeah?" he tells her with a grin. A moment to regard the flags. His eyes flick between two options. "Well. No pain, no gain, right?" he says eventually, grin widening, as he picks up the flag with -four- bands and lifts it high, something that may well and truly be beyond his skill and power. But he's totally used to being unconscious by now, it's fine!

GAME: Garthos rolls 1d13: (10): 10

"Well met and welcome back, sir warrior," says the Conjurer-Majestrix. "We are nearing the end of this tournament and so you will do battle with a noble agent of the heavens!" She incants her spell and a humanoid figure with canine features and face steps forth, a regal appearance to the armoured outsider. "Noble archon, you have been called forth in Angoron's name to duel on his holy day." The hound archon is not perplexed by this sudden arrival - summoned creatures wouldn't be so useful if they came in disoriented - and nods to Garthos, speaking in its resonant voice, "As you command, summoner. I will fight with honour to please the Patron of Heroes." The hound archon takes a ready stance. "Come, hero. May our duel be a worthy one."

"Archon?" Garth asks. He blinks, once, his brain trying to put two and two together. "... Oh, you're one of those! What did she call you... um..." Think think. 'Dog'?... no...

"...hound archon! Holy cr-- crumpets!" Don't curse in front of the angel. The large man grins just about ear-to-ear. "It's an honor! Let's have us a good one in the Iron Mountain's name!" HappyGarth is actually rather happy.

Round 1

The hound archon attacks Garthos.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+9: (20)+9: 29
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+9: (20)+9: 29
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 4d6+6: (15)+6: 21
GAME: Xenarchy damaged Garthos for 21 points of subdual damage. 21 total.

"Hound archon; that is right," states the angelic warrior, dashing forward moments before Garthos can react and swinging the celestial greatsword down toward him. The blow is a terrifying one, cutting downward in way that would fell several lesser men at once. The magic of the arena staves off any great injury, this being made nonlethal but no less painful. "You have greater strength than that, noble human. Come at me!"

The hound archon gets an attack of opportunity.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+9: (10)+9: 19
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 2d6+3: (10)+3: 13
GAME: Xenarchy damaged Garthos for 13 points of subdual damage. 34 total.

"Here, what are you doing?" the archon asks in a calm tone, swinging the blade to catch Garthos as he skirts around.

Garthos attempts a grapple.
GAME: Garthos rolls 1d20+5+4: (3)+5+4: 12

"Ain't no way my sword's gonna go through that hide." Garth says, grinning in spite of the horrible wounds. He hops forward to try grab hold of the divine being with his bare hands, but the creature easily leans back out of the way of it. "Welp. Was nice getting to meet one of ya, at least. Guess the Brawler ain't on my side today!" he says. He's... not gonna hold, he knows it.

Round 2

The hound archon attacks Garthos.
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 1d20+9: (16)+9: 25
GAME: Xenarchy rolls 2d6+3: (7)+3: 10
GAME: Xenarchy damaged Garthos for 10 points of subdual damage. 44 total.

Tidehollow smiles, looking down at the battle. "Do not give up yet, warrior. You fight a champion of good and word of your resolute soul may be carried up into the heavens if you do well. Fight on, and may Angoron smile on you both." The hound archon gives Tidehollow a gesture not unlike a salute and plows into Garthos with another blow. The arena's dampening effect keeps the strike from being lethal but down he goes, falling unconscious on the ground. The timer above the battlefield vanishes. The celestial being kneels by him and invokes a measure of divine power, bringing Garthos back to awareness. "Noble warrior, you fought bravely. Although you lost this duel, I wish to know your name. We may meet again one day." The Conjurer-Majestrix announces, "A worthy attempt but the force of heaven prevailed." She does not dismiss the archon immediately. "Do not feel ashamed. Few have the opportunity to partake in such a competition. When you are ready, I will dismiss him and you may leave the ring." The crowd roars in applause.

"Ya just got lucky." goes Garth from his merry position on the ground, lifting a hand to wipe a bit of blood from his lip. It's good-natured, though - he's not a sore loser. "Name's Garth." he offers. "Didn't expect ya to have such a strong arm. Rematch one day?" he asks, as he drags himself to his feet and offers a hand for a shake.

Garthos' Match Ends

Result: Defeat. (0 points)