Grand Induction

Noble District, Courtyard of the Nivareen Estate

Banners and tapestry of dozens of noble crests flutter in the wind, the cloudless day's heat beating down on the crowd gathered. Laughter is abound, lubricated through easy flowing wine and fancy snacks. Well dressed servants with even more lavishly adorned lords. Music intertwines with the merriment, as lords and ladies schmooze with a building exciment.

The courtyard in front of a modest estate continues to fill. Groups that filter in are checked at the gates, making sure no outerplaner tomfollery is afoot before allowing quick entry and even quicker access to the festivities. There wasn't much to go off in terms of dress attire, save for a singular phrase: prepare yourself for presentation. Others here are in usual finery, kept cool by severants wafting large fans, though there are some that are in... unique tastes.

A handful of war golems that are bedazzled in dozens and dozens of gemstones, a sun tanned woman that looks like she just stepped off a decade long voyage with salt crusted leathers and a walking staff, a figure that walks on all fours, their self obscured by dragging vines and leafs behind them. A gaggle of halflings in finery roll around almost like proverbal black hole as they clean the serving plates off that they pass by. And so much more... oddities.

It becomes clear after some chatting with others, that this is a chance to gain a favor from House La'vie, a visting nobility that is so graciously hosted by the House Nivareen, a small mercentile house.

GAME: Eztli rolls knowledge/nobility: (11)+4: 15
GAME: Simony rolls perception: (1)+15: 16 (EPIC FAIL)

Culix is never one to turn down the chance for fancy snacks and wine, although typically she tends to join such events by means besides the front door, and leave with a few pieces of silverware. Today, however, she is no-where to be seen. There is, however, a female goblin in elaborate Veyshanti attire- layer upon layer of sheer white silks float about the diminutive specimen and her face is obscured save for the eyes behind a veil. She wears bangles on wrists and ankles affixed with myriad thin gold discs which jingle softly as she moves.

After all, sometimes it takes more than nimble fingers to get what you want. And besides, there's likely to be dancing- and there's a certain Goblin who wouldn't be caught dead doing such a thing. At present she is daintily picking at a small pastry stuffed with some dried imported fruit and small variety of bird, her free hand lifting the veil enough to allow her to eat while at the same time keeping her face obscured.

GAME: Culix used a Disguise Kit.

The albino is dressed in her official robes, marking her as a Temperance of Navos, and unlike other occasions, bears a pin designating her as middling seniority in the Monastery's ranks. Her hood is down around her shoulders, a wide-rimmed straw hat protecting her closely shaven head and bare neck from the sun. The tilted hourglass of the White Raven is displayed prominently around her neck, dangling on a delicate but simple silver chain.

Pinned to her left shoulder is a crest, a boon and invitation to attend and present herself. Simony looks around curiously, once past the gates, searching out the others bearing the same crest. After a few minutes, she frowns, squinting and adjusting her pince-nez. "You'd think they would be obvious..."

GAME: Culix rolls disguise+2+5: (20)+6+2+5: 33
<OOC> Culix says, "Using a kit for +2 and minor changes only for +5"
<OOC> Aryia says, "so well done that serval minor nobility think you're important and from distant Veyshanti power!"

It had been some time since Eztli had been forced to attend such an event, a boon that the small makari was thankful for every day. It was much easier to burn tentacled plant monsters attempting to swallow Aelwyn alive than pretending to be interested in the goings on at some lord's estate solely for the purpose of promoting political ties. 

It was however, something which Eztli did not forget either. The sorceress had doffed their robes they normally wore, replacing it with a yellow sun dress and several blue shawls that wrapped over her shoulders and draped from her arms. They had even acquired a bright gold cap for one of their horns, accompanied by a chain which dangled down the length of it. She was doing her best to listen to the goings on, again thankful that there was much less obligation to do so as several of the snacks offered disappeared down their maw.

The Dragoon may not have been of nobility, nor even care too much for their customs and stiff etiquettes - but he was very familiar with fancy parties, manors and the excess contained within. It was, after all, what his Troupe was usually hired to 'perform' at, sometimes with final consequences. Though, today - he had no reason to hide.

There was a bit of commotion as a figure strode past the gathered nobility with barely a pause. The glaive's thunked loudly against the floor, along with soft rippling of blue steel tipped strips of gladiator skirt. The ruddy sith-makar, his polished scales proudly on display from under an epaulatte adorned sleeveless vest, strode into the middle of the room.

And then Aelwyn spread his arms above him - and burst into flames. His ribboned horns were licked by black flames as they were on fire, the very tip of the curved blade roiled with fire and his silken shear cloak, patterned after a sunset, pinned upon one shoulder - it all seemed to hint towards a flame that rose up from the floor. Even his vest carried a tessellating shape of crimson and orange that suggested a rising flame.

"Greetings! For this one has arrived." The ruddy sith-makar gave with a stupidly proud and confident grin to the crowd.

Which he absolutely did not recognize anyone from. But you know - first impressions.His ribbons danced with the black flames, curiously not burning.

GAME: Aelwyn rolls diplomacy: (18)+10: 28

The three that have gathered within the party grounds find more than enough droll topics from nobles, at least the food and drink was flowing easily. Culix, with their bedecked Veyshanti attire, if she wanted it or not, gets quite a bit of attention from a traveling merchant's guild, trying to garner her attention for 'securing trades deals to distant lands helps us all prosper!'

Eztli and Simony nearly get the deluge of noble bordem, but is saved by the entrance of a particularly enflamed makari breaking into the party and making arrival known to all. Several private guards follow behind to try and stop him, but soon are ceased from a wave of laughter and applause that goes through the crowd.

"Wonderful patrons! Hither and hark!" A sharp, crisp woman's voice cuts through through the music and the excitement. The band ceases with a disconcordant note. There's a gnome woman with a red beret and a pink dress holding an equally pink parasol standing upon a table. Jade hair whips about as she throws her attention over the assembled crowd. The beating sun catching a pin on her dress: a metal lion holding a pink rose.

Culix makes a good showing of being personably disinterested speaking with the merchants, lots of round-about talk and half-promises that amount to nothing. Aelwyn's arrival does draw her attention- as it does so many others. "So brazen." she murmurs, and brings a finger to her lips- but whatever she is planning is curtailed by the address from their apparent hostess.

Her attention turns towards them, tilting her head lightly (with a faint jangle of metal from the motion) as she takes in her appearance and prepares to listen.

The Goblin notes the arrival of Aelwyn, and makes her way to his side. "Hello Aelwyn! What'd you use to get the black flames on your horns and ribbons?"

She walks around the ruddy-scaled Sith, and nods. "Aryia's armor is perfect for this sort of event. You are participating?" Simony eyes the crowd. "They seem to approve also." Rubbing at her cheek, she wonders, "Do you know where the rest of the... uhm... participants are?"

A wave is offered to Eztli as she approaches. The Veyshanti noble attracting some of the attention is eyed curiously. "Whew, glad that I'm just a wee priest."

The crisp voice cutting through all the gabbing gets the Goblin's attention, and her ears perk up as she takes it in.

Eztli was more than happy for someone else to take the attention of everyone who was meandering about the area, and she waves to Simony after whistling loudly for Aelwyn, the shawls catching the wind and movements effortlessly. "And I'm glad that I'm less desirable for various reasons." The sorceress snorts. "But you're here for the events too I hope?"

She turns her attention to the gnome and their proclamations, pushing slightly through the crowds so she could get a good look.

Aelwyn flicks his tail - strangely not on fire, but it does send his cloak fluttering towards the guards. He twists his lips, perhaps expecting more of an reaction. Then again, there were bushes with four legs crawling around. Turning his head, and seeing Simony, he flashes his teeth at her. "Tch, now why would this one give a secret?" He flickers his tongue at her.

Turning his head and seeing Eztli, he makes a grandiouse bow towards her and was about to reply, before.

The Jade Page. Aelwyn straightens instantly and clicks his teeth quietly. "Be careful to be brilliant." He quietly says to the others, before listening.

"Today, I have the absolute pleasure to introduce my lordship, Lord Knight Varren La'vie, Chevalier of the Cockatrice," the Jade Page booms, bowing from the waist and throwing her hand to the side of the Nivareen estate entrance. Servants open the double doors, and a towering man clanks out. Pink robes adorned with white roses is wide set over his half plate armor, that of which has thorny green vines and pink flower with a white cloak thrown over one shoulder. The symbol of the cockatraice emblazoned upon it.

He raises a gauntleted hand, partially shading his pale face and bleached blond short hair. "Good glory to you all," the Lord Knight greets, flashing a smile as the crowd applauds. "It pleases me that you all have partaken so much in the festivities." His grin grows wider. More wild. The crowd begins to stir, the excitement electric. "Now now, I know why you all are here. Shall we partake further?"

Servants begin to move the tables and furniture out of the way, making a haphazard circle around the fountain in the center of the courtyard like a makeshift barrier. As the flurry goes about, an opulently groomed and brown furred massive wolf plods lazily out from behind the building, glittering chain mail ruffles against them, as pink flowers are woven into their fur. A banner sticks out off their saddle, the crest of La'vie held above that of a flag of the Cockatrice. Varren, with alacrity, hops into the saddle, sitting on a proverbial throne of judgement.

"Those of you that have my emblem, come forth and present your groups!" he ordains, waving a beckoning hand through the stifling summer air.

Culix seperates herself from the pestering merchants, with a deft motion of her hand producing her own emblem from concealment on her person, and rolling it across her knuckles. Making her way towards the forming ring, and keeping her sharp eyes peeled for matching emblems. She smiles briefly beneath the veil when she spies just who it is she is meandering towards.

Approaching Simony, Aelwyn and Eztli- all whom she knows and know her- she offers a brief dip of her head as she feigns ignorance. "It seems as though I am to be joining you for the day." she brandishes her matching emblem. "You may call me Pavih, it's a pleasure to meet you." she offers.

Simony stares at the massive man, eyeing his armor, and then the giant wolf as it appears. She grins then. "A fine mount.", the Goblin says to the Knight, in a conversational tone.

She eyes Pavih as she approaches, and a pale hand is extended to the Veyshanti. "Hello, I am called Simony. Good luck here today!"

A pale tongue is stuck out at Aelwyn then, "Well fine, keep your secrets then!" The Gobbo frowns, and tosses her head, looking away from the flaming Sith. "All depends on the desire, Eztli. But I get what you mean. Having all these eyes staring at you."

"It's great to have your assistance with something like this, your help is welcome!" Eztli nods to Culix, and to Simony. The sorceress turns her attention to Aelwyn after though, and she gets a wicked looking grin on her face. "Still remember how to get another dancer into the air, Aelwyn?" She asks, waiting for the dragoon to help launch her higher into the air where her wings take over, gaining more height before she tumbles into the now open area with a flip, landing in front of the knight where she quickly transitions into a sweeping curtsy.

Aelwyn clicks his teeth as the Lord Knight himself makes an entrance. Obviously not enough fire and perhaps the pink is too much, but he can definitely appreciate the dedication. And the impression.

Distracted by the vaguely Veyshanti looking woman, the draconian's eyes narrow repeatedly as he scrutinizes the outfit - but then he flashes his teeth. "Naturally, Veil." He bows his head. "Aelwyn, a Dragoon. And no luck shall be required today, Canvas."

Which is when he turns towards Eztli and grins, extending his arm. "The doubt, near insulting." Helping her onto his arm, he thrusts her up into the air and as she makes the spin, he boldly strides forward.

Once more, he spreads his arms up towards the skies. "Lord Knight Varen of House La'vie, Chevalier of the Cockatrice!" He calls out. "Aelwyn, the Dragoon, shall present the saviours of the Phoenix, the bane of the Felwood, the mourners of the Dead and -" He glances towards Pavish. Only way forward. "- the burning luminaries of Veyshan and Crimson Troupe!"

Simony's comment garners naught save for a smirk from the man as his attention is all but ripped away to the arial acrobatics. Leathery wings brought down from the curstey like a curtain as Aelwyn is brought to the fore. La'vie leans forward, grinning as he eyes each of the party, particularly on Aelwyn. "Eclectic. And striking. Glorious. I already know what /you/ want from this," he wolfishly smiles.

Two other groups break free of the crowd alongside the party, both are equally puzzling, not nearly as flashy as the party's entrance.

The first group is that trio of wargolems. Two of which were carrying tridents, while another cradles a large and wrapped sword of some kind in their metal arms. Aside from the sheer amount of gemstones and colored glass that makes their frames hard to look at, the two trident wielders are constructed of a glossy silver, while the larger looking leader is in shimmering gold. The three kneel, while the gold one's mouthpiece lights up in a mechanical, "Greetings Lord Knight Fleshling. My designation is Alpha, with Theta and Gamma behind me. We are the Trifect of Tribulated Tesseracts, here to earn your endorsement of our glorious reconstruction to prove that our maker's designs are perfection."

The Lord Knight cackles, clapping his hands. "Marvelous!"

The second group is that of what appears to be a deranged gnomish woman that has colorful vines and leaves growing from them? At least the flowers blooming from them are pretty? Beside them is that of a sun tanned elf in bleached leathers, holding a staff with her lightly kicking the gnome beside her. "Sit still, gods. Heya Sir Lord Knight man. We're the Four Queens- well, two now but whatever. And we- can you /stop/ biting my boot?" There's a little scuffle between them before she has the feral gnome held at bay with the butt of her staff. "Like I was sayin', we's doin' pretty good on the outskirts of Myrrish waters and land yeah? We was hopin' fo' a little uh..."

"WE TRADE FOR STUFF!" the gnome barks.

"A trade deal."

Varen looks intruiged. smirking. "Fa-sci-nating." He eyes everyone, taking in their measure, their menagerie. Lingering on the party. He claps his hands. Riveting and fast paced music floods the space. "Show me your grandiour! Show me you deserve your favor! My Page!"

The gnomish woman clicks her heels. "The Lord requests that the parties duel for his favor! The flashiest will earn it! There shall be no killing blows! There shall be no poison! And there shall be no invisible cravens! Present yourselves! And your honor!"

She holds up a pistol to the sky.

"Present!"

It fires.

<OOC> Aryia says, "eztli! while i pose. the party, due to your entrance, has the crowd at friendly! everyone gets +1 morale bonus on all attack rolls, combat maneuver checks, ability checks, skill checks, and saving throws"

Completely started by the gunshot, the feral gnome gnawing at her ally's staff screeches, skittering off towards on the tables left behind. There's a surge of power that wafts from them, their once scrawny frame filling out with bulging muscles as a pair of demented eyes glare towards the party and the Triple T's.

The crowd cheers, some whoops going towards the party, as a couple point out the gnome's speedy retreat!

GAME: Eztli casts Enlarge Person. Caster Level: 11 DC: 17

Eztli stands up straight and nods to the lord in charge. "It is our honor and duty to fight for the glory of dragoon Aelwyn, whose victories and honors have drawn others of acclaim to fight alongside him!" She cheers loudly, taking her spot in the group and waiting for the gunshot, quickly chanting in draconic.

<OOC> Culix says, "I'll tumble to 7, 15 (even though I'm not threatened- just to be stylish) while drawing a dagger, and then throw it at Salty Queen."
GAME: Culix rolls weapon3: (11)+10: 21
<OOC> Aryia says, "that will hit your flat footed target, roll for damage! and since you got first blood, roll me a combat performance check if you want to improve the crowd as a free action. The DC is 21 currently due to number of participants (med battle) and the crowd is medium sized!"
GAME: Culix rolls damage3+3d6: aliased to 1d3+0+3d6: (2)+0+(6): 8
GAME: Culix rolls 3: (17)+3: 20
<OOC> Aryia says, "adding in the +1 from the morale bonus, you actually hit it RIGHT on the nose, the crowd goes to helpful, increasing the bonus to +2!"

<OOC> Aryia says, "theta enters overdrive (rages), netting a free check for the crowd"
<OOC> Aryia says, "dc 16 due to indifferent"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+4: (7)+4: 11
<OOC> Aryia says, "fails by 5, they start booing that team"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+10+2: (17)+10+2: 29
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d6+5: (3)+5: 8
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+4: (16)+4: 20

The veiled goblin snaps into action with the fire on the starter pistol- she is a blur of motion, her elaborate silks trailing after her like wisps of smoke chasing an ember. She takes one step and then vaults forwards, landing on her hands, cartwheeling in a furious jangle of golden jewelry. As she rights way up again, a slender blade finds itself in her hand- drawn from some hidden fold of fabric during the maneuver, and the momentum of her cartwheel is driven behind it.

THe dagger is loosed, sailing through the air and catching the salty Queen on the cheek drawing first blood.

'Pavih' returns to standing with a languid, fluid motion that seems to start at the tips of her toes and roll through her body to the tips of her fingers, casting an impish glance towards the onlookers. "Sorry, were you not yet ready?" she teases the queen.

GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+5: (13)+5: 18
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+4: (13)+4: 17
<OOC> Aryia says, "charge against feral queen"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+10+2: (1)+10+2: 13 (EPIC FAIL)
<OOC> Aryia says, "nat one, must check again"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+4: (18)+4: 22
<OOC> Aryia says, "crowd doesnt go worse"
GAME: Aelwyn rolls weapon11-4: (11)+17+-4+2: 26
<OOC> Aryia says, "make your attack with +1!"
GAME: Aelwyn rolls damage11+1d6: aliased to 1d10+6+1d6: (8)+6+(3): 17
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+17+2: (17)+17+2: 36
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+17+2: (1)+17+2: 20 (EPIC FAIL)
<OOC> Aryia says, "does not crit"
GAME: Aryia rolls 2d6+10+2d6: (6)+10+(4): 20
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d6: (2): 2
<OOC> Aryia says, "sword cuts himself, charge succes"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+5: (3)+5: 8
<OOC> Aryia says, "crowd moves to hostile"

The pirate queen gasps, touching the blood on her cheek and turning towards the flowing dancer. "You... bitch!" she seethes.

Meanwhile, the Tesseract glow brighter, the gems on their frames sparkling with arcane power. Steam hisses out of them as their eyes glow red. "Overdrive: INITIATED!" they all yell in unison. Each of them blast forth towards the other conestants. Theta slams their shield into Simony, but doesn't do much aside from planting steel into her face. Gamma almost falls over as water from the fountain in the center splashes out.

"Boo!" someone from the crowd yells, most smacking their tables in rhytm as the Triple T's are on the bad side of the crowd. Alpha powers forward, even as he gets hit by Aelwyn's dancing glaive and throws off the wrap on the weapon. A gleaming black sword, deathly sharp. It whirls down in a blur against Aelwyn, so much so that it rebounds and scratches the golem's frame. The crowd seethes. "Are. You. Not. Entertained?" it questions, confused.

GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+14-2: (20)+14+-2: 32
GAME: Aelwyn rolls weapon11-4+2: (15)+17+-4+2: 30
<OOC> Aelwyn says, "Could I still do dramatic display though as a swift?"
<OOC> Aryia says, "yes"
GAME: Aelwyn rolls perform/dance+2: (17)+10+2: 29
<OOC> Aelwyn says, "Has to succeed against targets' will saves to take effect. ._."
<OOC> Aelwyn says, ""You gain the ability to, as a swift action, make a performance check as you exude an aura of awe-inspiring skill. You gain a +2 bonus on your performance check, and gain a +2 bonus on all attack rolls and combat maneuver checks until the end of your next turn. Your performance check must succeed against the targets' Will saves. Your targets must be within your line of sight and be able to see your impressive display for your performance to take effect. ""
<OOC> Aelwyn says, "this is under dazzling display in the tb wiki, which I think is a mistake"
<OOC> Aryia says, "that differs from the normal rules"
<OOC> Aelwyn says, "It was reworked https://discord.com/channels/751439162565197845/751814971159085116/1205354148665757796"
<OOC> Aryia scratches head.
<OOC> Aryia says, "al... right. I'll just do this then"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+12+2: (1)+12+2: 15 (EPIC FAIL)
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+9: (7)+9: 16
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+6: (1)+6: 7 (EPIC FAIL)
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+6: (13)+6: 19
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+5-2: (2)+5+-2: 5
<OOC> Aryia says, "they all fail and you get your bonuses"
GAME: Aelwyn rolls intimidate: (16)+16: 32
<OOC> Aelwyn says, "... +2"
<OOC> Culix says, "I think they have to make a performance combat check if they roll a nat 1"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+4: (11)+4: 15
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+4: (18)+4: 22
<OOC> Aryia says, "queens lose favor"
<OOC> Aryia says, "anyways, it maeks them shaken except the feral one, make the pose!"

Aelwyn spins back straight after his flat blade strike against the golem. "Alpha - it is about a show." He flashes his teeth at the dangerously sharp blade wielding blade.

And he slams his glaive down, twisting his leg high above him as if to dance away in a cart wheel - but instead, he gets interrupted by the golem.

Normally, he'd tumble down ungraciously, but this was not the time for such rationality! Hissing, he swipes the haft of his polearm against the golem's neck, using it for leverage, whilst his body is left into a corkscrew spin in the air. The blade makes a few rapid spins that nearly swipe at him - but then he grabs the haft once more and rolls into the ground, prone.

"... it is all about the dance, Alpha." The draconian groans as he rolls over onto his back.

GAME: Simony rolls 1d20+5+6+2: (8)+5+6+2: 21
GAME: Simony rolls 1d20+5+6+2: (8)+5+6+2: 21 (reroll)

The Goblin had jumped a little from the retort of the pistol, and blinks as suddenly there's action. She grunts loudly at being bashed in the face with a shield, and she gives her head a shake to clear the birds and stars from her vision.

"Hey!", she grumbles, frowning, "Pick on someone your own size! I'm gonna knock you over!" Her intent and what actually happens are two different things. It appears that Simony hugs at Theta's leg, grunting as she strains to constrain the Wargolem's movement. "Hang on, I wasn't ready!" Another unlady-like grunt, before she jumps away, trying to get free of Theta's personal space. "You shall rue the day!"

<OOC> Aryia says, "the captain cocks her staff and blasts culix, eztli, and theta, reflex saves as she casts lighting bolt, setting a hedge on fire in the backgorund!"
GAME: Eztli rolls reflex: (17)+9: 26
GAME: Culix rolls reflex: (17)+12: 29
GAME: Aryia rolls 6d6: (19): 19
<OOC> Aryia says, "eztli takes half, culix does a sick flip outta the way!"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+5-2: (2)+5+-2: 5
<OOC> Aryia says, "robot gets fried"
<OOC> Aryia says, "quick crowd check"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+3-1: (1)+3+-1: 3 (EPIC FAIL)
<OOC> Aryia says, "the crowd moves to hostile"
<OOC> Aryia says, "the deranged queen turns into a frickin air elemental"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+11-2: (18)+11+-2: 27
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d8+5: (7)+5: 12

The crowd is not having this. They start jeering at both other groups, spurred further by Aelwyn's display. The contestants look on wearily at the corkscrewing makari, his deftness of blade making them second guess their participation.

The Salt Queen twirls her staff before tucking it under her shoulder, holding it up and aiming with it. "How's this one for flashy?!" the elf yells before runes along it charge up, and a bolt of lighting cracks out of it! It lances past not-Culix and Eztli, slamming into Theta and setting a brush on fire in the back.

"My roses!"

"Fuck," the sea queen hisses.

Meanwhile, the viney mass starts to pick up and swirl, as a small tornado of vines and leaves replaces the feral queen. Taking a trident in the side for her running towards the fray, it violently approaches the mass, thrumming with barely contained ferocity.

"Do something better!"

GAME: Eztli casts Fire Snake. Caster Level: 11 DC: 23
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+5-2: (3)+5+-2: 6
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+4-2: (3)+4+-2: 5
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+9-2: (11)+9+-2: 18
GAME: Eztli rolls 11d6+11: (36)+11: 47
GAME: Eztli puts on her sunglasses and rolls 1d20+11+2+1000: (12)+11+2: 1025
<OOC> Eztli says, "... huh. that's what that does"
<OOC> Aryia snort. so a 25 total will not improve the crowd further, as the DC is 26. HOWEVER. you have knocked one out, so you get another check. the dc drops as the combantant numbers lower. all DCs drop by 4
GAME: Eztli rolls 1d20+11+2: (7)+11+2: 20
<OOC> Eztli will use their reroll on that if they can!
GAME: Eztli rolls 1d20+11+2: (20)+11+2: 33
<OOC> Aryia says, "the party gains a victory point!"

Eztli is able to duck just barely out of the way of the lightning, though the makari is left with several badly singed scales for her trouble.

"We'll do you one better if that's what you want!" The sorceress growls, weaving together flames in their hands. "Immolate!" <draconic> she hisses, causing the flames to erupt into a pillar of flame with a distinctly reptilian head, before it weaves through the ring, circling around Aelwyn's party and directly through 3 of the combatants, finishing by rising high into the air, with its maw outstretched as it dissipates into the air.

GAME: Culix rolls bluff+2: (11)+9+2: 22
<OOC> Culix says, "COmbat performance check."
GAME: Culix rolls 3+2: (20)+3+2: 25
<OOC> Aryia says, "2 victory points!"

Culix tuts at being called a bitch and shakes her head. "Watch your tongue..." she says, just in time for a bolt of lightning to come her way. She spins elegantly, her silks flowing around her as she moves aside from the bolt sailing past her and without a missed beat she is in motion. Cutting an arc to match the salty queen's own movement she draws another blade- this one is ink black with a slight curve and its hilt is set with an onyx. Not the same class of blade as the one she so casually threw to start the engagement.

The blade is rolled over her knuckles as she pirouettes towards the captain, and then clenched in a revers grip as she leaps into the air, still spinning as though she intends to drive the blade right into the Queen's throat. "Or someone might cut it out." she teases after landing, holding out her hand to reveal that she switched at the last moment.

She lets out a light laugh, her silver hair escaping the veils to trail across her face from the exertion.

<OOC> Aryia says, "alpha is going to try and trip eztli, with their first attack, provoking from the lizzer"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+14-2: (14)+14+-2: 26
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+12-2-2: (14)+12+-2+-2: 22
GAME: Aryia rolls 2d6+10+2d6: (4)+10+(10): 24
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d6: (5): 5
<OOC> Aryia says, "performance check for tripping"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+5-2: (14)+5+-2: 17
<OOC> Aryia says, "crowd isn't having it at all, to the point where they've failed out and are no longer a part of the performance"
<OOC> Aryia says, "one team is elminated"
<OOC> Aryia says, "but still in init :)"
<OOC> Aryia says, "gamma charges simony"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+11-2-2: (8)+11+-2+-2: 15

There's a roar of flame that sears through the contestants, the wind screams and two of the constructs, their gems break and burst. As the dragon head fades, there is a smoldering mass of vines and gnome on the floor, coughing out soot. She holds up a white flower, waving it limply. Theta is on the ground, the gems on their arms shattered as a red warning light flickers on their chest. Alpha, however, stands firm, countering with a slam downwards of the hilt of their viscious sword, toppling Eztli to the ground and coming back around with another slash.

The crowd riles at this. "Not worthy!" "Gold plated garbage!"

Alpha pauses. Then winds their sword back up again. "We. Will. Prove. Our. Worth!" Doesn't seem like they're stopping anytime soon. Especially as Gamma comes in swinging, but their trident whiffs past Simony's hat.

Meanwhile, the Salt Queen grimaces, bringing her staff up to parry the dagger to her throat. The tiniest "eek!" escapes her as her throat is poked. She blinks. And her tanned visage floods red in embarrassment. "... I hate you."

The crowd shifts from jeering to cackling, clapping and whooping for the party! "DO A FLIP!" someone yells.

<OOC> Aelwyn says, "How much to throw Eztli up in the air"
<OOC> Aryia says, "it'd be standard"
<OOC> Aelwyn says, "Would you be up for some aerial ballet Eztli?"
<OOC> Eztli says, "Sounds good to me!"
<OOC> Aryia taps chin. "If you want to do that, makes a perform/dance check with +2 from the crowd, and I'll give you an extra +1 becuase of the size difference making it easier to throw her. Beat a DC 22, and I'll let you make a performance combat check for the crowd"
<OOC> Aelwyn says, "I think the +2 from the dramatic display doesn't carry over..."
GAME: Aelwyn rolls perform/dance+2+1: (14)+10+2+1: 27
<OOC> Aryia says, "it does, until the end of your /next/ turn"
GAME: Aelwyn rolls 1d20+8+2+2: (9)+8+2+2: 21
<OOC> Aelwyn 'll spent a reroll on that if it doesn't pass
<OOC> Aryia says, "spent! fails by 1"
GAME: Aelwyn rolls 1d20+8+2+2: (9)+8+2+2: 21
<OOC> Aryia says, "i'll also say it removes eztli's prone"

There was fire! Excitement! Embarrassment! Grim determination! And all Aelwyn could see was the floor- oh hey, he could suddenly see a whole lot more. His glaive scrapes the ground and sends out sparks and flames as he slowly gets onto his feet. Slowly, he starts to further ascend, and with barely paying notice to Eztli's fall, he grabs er by the back. "Tonight none shall falter!" He calls out, as he flings her up in the air with a spin. "Only the brightest flame shall fill the sky!"

The Dragoon was grinning widely in macabre grin, staring down at the Captain, his glaive's blade pointed at the Alpha's feet.

GAME: Simony casts Righteous Might. Caster Level: 9 DC: 19
<OOC> Aryia says, "Simony, if you want, since Rightous might is a very flashy GOD POWER UP, you can make a performance combat check"
GAME: Simony rolls 1d20+2+2: (8)+2+2: 12
GAME: Simony rolls 1d20+2+2: (13)+2+2: 17
<OOC> Aryia says, "the crowd falls from helpful to friendly, the DC is now 17"

The Goblin manages to dodge another charging Wargolem and its trident, and with the crackle of lightning, and the whoooosh of flame, she lets out a sigh.

"Fine."

Her holy symbol begins to glow a pale, white light, and floats lightly before her, tugging at the chain. "Oh holy Raven, defender of knowledge, and hidden god of Strength. Imbue this tiny body with the power of the divine. Grant me the strength and size to best my foes, and have them tremble before me!"

A brief flash highlights Simony, and she begins to grow, soon standing about a head taller than the robot before her, gaining in bunk as well as height. She slowly rolls up her sleeves, and flexes an impressive set of pipes. Punching a fist into her palm, she glares at Gamma. "You can surrender now, I guarantee you /WILL/ miss what I am about to take."

Pride goeth before the suplex.

GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+11-2-2: (16)+11+-2+-2: 23
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+6-2-2: (9)+6+-2+-2: 11
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d6+7: (2)+7: 9

The crowd rubs their eyes as Eztli is thrown skyward, taken out of the clutches of the overdrived golem, as they look back, the small goblin had grown to tall folk size? "Wait, is that the same person?" "Yeah look at the hat!" They continue to applaud and cheer for the party, but its not as fervent as before due to the little mix up. But spirits are still high!

Buuut. Not for all. "Oh yeah? Two can play at that game, lil' miss!" The Salt Queen hisses, twirling her staff around. Both ends glow and trail lights, before lancing out, only for on to skirt Culix on the side. She slides back, looking behind her at the judging figure of Lord Knight La'vie.

He's not even paying attention to her. His focus is set firmly on the party.

Gamma's ocular receptors sloowly turn upwards as Simony grows large before him. He glances to Alpha, then back up to Simony. "... critical error: this one has nothing to miss."

GAME: Eztli casts Scorching Ray. Caster Level: 11 DC: 20
GAME: Eztli rolls 1d20+7+1+1: (16)+7+1+1: 25
GAME: Eztli rolls 1d20+7+1+1: (15)+7+1+1: 24
GAME: Eztli rolls 1d20+7+1+1: (20)+7+1+1: 29
<OOC> Eztli says, "crit on the third, rolling to confirm"
GAME: Eztli rolls 1d20+7+1+1: (9)+7+1+1: 18
<OOC> Aryia says, "crits!"
GAME: Eztli rolls 4d6+4+1: (15)+4+1: 20
GAME: Eztli rolls 4d6+4+1: (9)+4+1: 14
GAME: Eztli rolls 8d6+8+2: (24)+8+2: 34
<OOC> Aryia says, "okay, so, you get a free action crowd check since you crit"
<OOC> Aryia says, "dc 17 currently, with a +1 from the crowd"
GAME: Eztli rolls 1d20+11+1: (15)+11+1: 27
<OOC> Aryia says, "moves to helpful!"
<OOC> Aryia says, "you can now make another swift action since you used a flashy spell"
GAME: Eztli rolls 1d20+11+1: (2)+11+1: 14
<OOC> Aryia says, "that will move them back to friendly"
<OOC> Eztli says, "nooo"
<OOC> Aryia says, "they go crazy for the flair, but you think you put a liiiiiiiiitle too much oomph into it and the crowd starts to do the nervous cheering"

Eztli is sent into the air by Aelwyn, and not missing a beat, the sorceress is sent spinning, landing nearby on a single foot, transitioning into a quick pirouette thatt sends their shawls and dress spinning. With a snap of her fingers while not breaking stride, three flaming lances flicker to life spinning around with her, stopping only as she does on the spot, each streaking towards a different targe and impacting with a painful heat, the one sent towards the captain even engulfing her in flames for a brief moment.

<OOC> Culix says, "Tumble behind captain and poke her while she's still flat footed from my feint."
GAME: Culix rolls acrobatics+5: (1)+14+5: 20 (EPIC FAIL)
<OOC> Culix says, "Rerolling that"
GAME: Culix rolls acrobatics+5: (10)+14+5: 29
<OOC> Aryia says, "successful tumble!"
GAME: Culix rolls weapon20+1: (17)+11+1: 29
GAME: Culix rolls damage20+3d6: aliased to 1d3+1+3d6: (3)+1+(11): 15
<OOC> Aryia says, "you rolled max damage on your weapon, if you want, you may make a crowd check. BUT it is at -4 since you are using a light weapon"
<OOC> Culix says, "I'll automatically succeed it with a victory point unless one of my team mates object"
<OOC> Aryia says, "if there are no objections, you now have 1 victory point, and the crowd goes back to helpful!"

Culix shakes her head a bit at the Captain, "I've earned the ire of scarier things than you." She taunts and then takes a half step back to enjoy the cheering of the crowd- and to make way for a beam of fire to zip past her and slam the captain in the chest.

As the captain staggers back she raises her hands, "If you insist!" she calls out to the crowd and then breaks into a run, and then jump- executing a perfect front flip over the captain and blocking off her escape route.

She twirls again and slices across the captain's back, flicking the blade from reverse to forward grip as her arm reaches maximum extension and spraying a splatter of blood across the ground.

"No running away, now." she teases as she turns back around. "Unless, you're throwing in the towel?" she asks.

GAME: Simony rolls weapon0: (3)+8: 11
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+11-2-2: (15)+11+-2+-2: 22
<OOC> Aryia rolls to inform pose
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20: (10): 10
<OOC> Aryia says, "fails to realize he's about to get clobbered by the guards that are piling out outside the crowd to stop him once this is over"
<OOC> Aryia says, "initimidating glare aelwyn is a move action"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+20-2: (4)+20+-2: 22
<OOC> Aryia says, "the dc is 23, and they rolled a 22 lol"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+19-2: (17)+19+-2: 34
<OOC> Aryia says, "threat"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+19-2: (18)+19+-2: 35
GAME: Aryia rolls 4d6+26+2d6: (12)+26+(7): 45
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d6: (6): 6
<OOC> Aryia says, "...."
<OOC> Aryia says, "he knocks himself out with the viscious quality"

It's a exhilarating thing, with all these people cheering the party on. Fire sears the remaining contestants, the Salt Captain screaming as her jacket catches fire, as well as her hair. There's a gasp as she loses track of Culix while putting herself out, spnning around to try and find her, only for her back to get sliced into. A shout of pain rips from her throat, and she clatters to her knees. "Fuck- fuck- ow- shit alright alright I give I give!" she pants, throwing her staff to the ground and holding her hands up.

Meanwhile, Gamma slams into Simony, metal grinding as they drop their weapons and grab hold of the larger than life Temperance. "Status: go down swinging," it drones.

Alpha twirls his black greatsword, oculus receptors gleaming crimson towards the massive Aelwyn. "Go down swinging," it echoes off of Gamma, wrenching the black blade down in a wide arc. Makari blood goes spray across the yard, mixing with the fountain. Yet it was so sharp, the keeps going, smashing into their own leg. It looks down. "Critical error. Circuits... disrupted."

It falls forward into a golden metallic crash.

(Dramatic display used here)
GAME: Aelwyn rolls performance/dance+2: (8)+performance/dance+2: 10
GAME: Aelwyn rolls perform/dance+2: (13)+10+2: 25
<OOC> Aelwyn says, "20"
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+5: (14)+5: 19
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+9: (1)+9: 10 (EPIC FAIL) (Sea Captain)
GAME: Aryia rolls 1d20+4-2: (6)+4+-2: 8 (Combat Performance Check)
GAME: Aelwyn rolls weapon11+2-4+2: (15)+17+2+-4+2: 32
GAME: Aelwyn rolls weapon11+2-4+2-5: (20)+17+2+-4+2+-5: 32 (THREAT)
GAME: Aelwyn rolls weapon11+2-4+2-5: (16)+17+2+-4+2+-5: 28
<OOC> Aryia says, "hit, confirmed crit"
GAME: Aelwyn rolls weapon11+2-4+2-10: (18)+17+2+-4+2+-10: 25
<OOC> Aelwyn says, "... i'm not sure if i want to crit so bad right now"
GAME: Aelwyn rolls 1d20+8+2+2: (14)+8+2+2: 26
<OOC> Aryia says, "VICTORY POINT"
<OOC> Aryia says, "you knock them super out, you get a +2 for 3 hits"
GAME: Aelwyn rolls 1d20+8+2+2+2: (18)+8+2+2+2: 32
<OOC> Aryia says, "another victory point!"
<OOC> Aryia says, "and with 3 points..."
<OOC> Aryia says, "Varen intercepts and calls the match!"

As the fights and rivalries spin and warr around him, Aelwyn spins his glaive lazily around him, swaying with the motion. It was to cost him - as he takes in a massively heavy blow from the golem. It cuts through his chest, cuts part of his vest and only miraculously doesn't just shred his silken cloak. There's a cry of pain as the blood gushes out over his now not so ruddy, but crimon scales.

Still, his orange eyes turn towards the Lord Knight Varen, and he starts to stride towards the man as if he just didn't have a gaping wound. The flaming glaive swings in an arc - and smacks, slaps and with a disgustingly final statement, ends the struggles of the other stage combatants. Aelwyn raises his arms once more, his horns still lit with black flames. "For was this not a dance of fire - the inferno of our passions?" He asks and with a bloody sharp toothed grin, makes a grandious bow. That somehow miraculously doesn't spill his guts all over from the sword wound.

The Goblin blinks as the Golem grabs her, and she growls. "Ye have arms and legs, and you will MISS them." Her stature bulks up further as she calls upon her deity's favor once more. But it is wasted, as Gamma is cut down.

Simony almost seems offended by this, seemingly in her element in close quarter's combat, despite the chaotic carnage around her. She looks around, at the crowd cheering, and then at her companions. Softly, she calls upon her God once more, channeling divine power to sooth aches and pains, and closing wounds. "This has to be the ... strangest combat I've ever participated in. Next time, I am just pulling my hammer and going to work. This fancy show off stuff will get you killed in real combat." Simony pats Aelwyn's arm, before she suddenly shrinks down to normal with a POP. "Thanks for your help!"

Eztli winces with the combat seeming to grow violent and painful, which was certainly not helped by her own actions. Aelwyn's wound got the sorceress shouting, but it seemed to be over, so she's just left standing awkwardly for some time. "If this doesn't stand as a testament to Aelwyn's convictions and our support of his claim, then I don't know what would." They note, a bit more subdued. "Of course it's not for actual combat, that's what makes it interesting, you know."

Gamma goes careening into the water fountain, making a massive splash go over the crowd. They hoot and holler in uproarious approval, only for the Lord Knight to raise a hand. Jade Page fires off another shot into the sky. The crowd goes silent.

A slow clap. "Hah! I dare say that was the most dramatic, impassioned display I have seen in some time!" La'vie grins wildly, sliding off his mount. Stopping to scratch them behind the ears, he strides forward, hands behind his back. "You see, everyone, this right here is what it means to be glorious. Look at this group! This raging inferno of a makari,-" he gestures to Eztli-, "this mysterious yet deceptive Veshian,-" sweeps over Culix, "-a devout, righteous, and pious woman-" continues over Simony, who gets a laugh as she POPS into her tiny size,- "and you!"

He clasps Aelwyn on the shoulders, grinning wildly. "I thought in your letter you were just inflating your ego, but clearly, you have much to back it up!"

He makes a motion towards his Page, which gets the unconscious and forfeited contestants out of the area. And thrown out of the party. Thankfully all healed up from Simony's magics. "I will grant you your desire. Give me your weapon, Dragoon Aelwyn," he grins, holding a hand out.

Culix rolls her dagger over her knuckles once more, and then with a flourish spins it across her palm and slips it into a hidden sheath somewhere in her robes. The white silk now spattered with red here and there, she dips her head towards the lord knight. "A little deception adds to the performance, doesn't it?" she asks- eyes twinkling. But she takes a gracious step back away from him as Aelwyn is beckoned to receive his reward.

Aelwyn lifts his eyes when the Lord Knight nears him - etiquette smehqiettue - and tilts his head with a flash of his bloodied teeth. "An ego is nothing but a cup to be filled - not to be filled with air and spilled." He replies - but then he falls quiet.

The Lord Knight will grant him his desire. The ruddy sith-makar spares a glance around the crowd, and then his friends. It was a short look, but his tail does make a coiling motion at them.

"Naturally, Lord Knight." The Dragoon replies and lifts the well crafted, ribbon adorned and golden ornamented glaive. Within the palms of his hands, he offers the weapon to the far-unnecessarily-larger man and makes a slight bow of his head.

"It was an excellent performance, hard fought and well earned." Eztli agrees, nodding to Culix and the others, giving another curtsy to the lord before stepping back. "My thanks for allowing Aelwyn this chance to prove his worth if his exploits were not enough already. I can attest to many of them as an eye witness."

The Goblin offers a polite curtsey to the Knight, and after shrinking back down earns her a laugh, Simony grins, lifting a hand to offer a finger-wiggle wave to the appreciative crowd. "It's all you!", she calls out, gesturing to those gathered. "And him!" A gesture to Aelwyn.

"Of course not," Varen smiles down to Culix, walking forward towards the party and assessing each of them closely. "And what is it not right but to fill one's cup to the brim, hmmm?" He lightly laughs towards Eztli and Simony. "Surrounded by such talented folks only will propel him further."

Bowing his head as he picks up the glaive, he raises it up for all the crowd to see. "Witness! Gods and man!" he barks aloud, twirling the ribbond weapon once before stopping it sharply above Aelwyn.

"I, Lord Knight Varen of House La'vie, Chevalier of the Order of the Cockatrice, with the power invested in me as such in my position, extend this offer towards Dragoon Aelwyn of the Golden Sands." He tips the flaming glaive over Aelwyn's shoulder, tapping one side. "For as long as you keep your goals and glory above all others. For as long you accept all rewards that you deserve. For as long as you grasp at every chance to show and advance your glory and power."

He taps Aelwyn's other shoulder before pulling away with a titanic grin. "For as long as you uphold these edicts of self righteousness: I grant thee the title of Knight-Errant! Chevalier of the Order of the Cockatrice! If you accept this mark, you shall be bound by honor and your personal glory!" With a flair, he draws from under his robe a clasp. It's a beautifully enamled thing, with the head of a cockatrice clutching a pink rose, batting at the air with its wings, and surrounded in gold. He offers both Aelwyn his weapon back, as well as the mark, grinning wildly.

Culix cants her head to the side a touch, a little confused at Varen's meaning, but doesn't question it. She looks towards her companions, "Well, this was fun. But I suppose I had better get away before those merchants find me again. They're much too persistent for my taste." she muses, and then takes a few steps back towards the crowd before slipping between and occasionally under the legs of the onlookers, making a surprisingly quiet exit given her jangly adornments.

Once far enough away from the crowd to slip away somewhere out of sight, she pulls off her veil and dispels the glamer on her armor, returning to her usual grey on grey attire. "Bugger me, as if it was them three." she complains to herself, cheeks coloured with a flush. "I hope they didn't recognize me. Shit." she grumbles, slinking off.

"Well, there you have it." Eztli chuckles loudly, reaching to pat Aelwyn on the shoulder. "Go on, take it. It's your first deserved reward formally as a knight, after all."

Cheering noisily, Simony hops up and down excitedly. She pauses in her expenditure of energy to offer the Veyshan a wave. "It was good to have you on our side in battle! Good luck in your future ventures, and take care!" The Goblin returns to cheering at the top of her lungs.

The moment starts to slowly sink into Aelwyn, and he doesn't quite hear the words around him. Heart thrumming with heaving pride, he momentarily gets lost and forgets himself; but he quickly corrects and bows his head deeply, as the Lord Knight taps his shoulder. The flames did not bother him any. Maybe the exquisite clothing a bit.

Eztli gets a look, and then he taps at her ankles with his tail.

Then he raises his gaze once more and sees the grin of a wild man, and the mark. "Of course, this one shall accept." The draconian replies and reaches out for the mark and his weapon; and when he receives them he quickly clasps the mark upon his shoulder. "And this one shall do nothing but strive for glory, Lord Knight Varen." Speaking of glory, he displays his bloodied teeth in a wide grin and turns around, extending his burning glaive towards the air, before making a bow towards the crowd. "This one has picked up a thirst - so let the feast begin!"

Though who the heck was that pretending to be from Veyshan?

The moment of waiting for Aelwyn's answer is a heavy, still one in the air.

"Most glorious, brother! Welcome to the Order!" Varen laughs, clapping Aelwyn on the shoulder as he accepts as the crowd bursts into applause, breaking the silence. "Please! Partake of the festivities! All of you! For now we have even more reason to celebrate!" He looks about, confused briefly. "Where is your dancer- bah, never mind!"

He whistles between two fingers, and servants move tables back into place. Food and wine is delivered. "Someone clean this man up!" the Lord Knight commands, smirking. "And get him and his friends a friend, he is /thirsty/!"

The merchants find no dancer to resume their trade attempts.

The patrons flock across the trio that remain, gabbing and trying to grab their attention.

And all the while, the Lord Knight partakes, raising his glass into the sky, and bows his head towards Simony, Eztli, and the newly minted Knight-Errant, Dragoon Aelwyn.

Good glory indeed.

-End Scene-

Combatty

Map: https://www.mipui.net/app/index.html?mid=mgdxp8e59rf