Challenge of Druid's Grove

PBeM Game (1/15/2002 - 3/10/2002)


Here's a log of a play-by-e-mail game of Challenge of Druid's Grove that I played against Andy Sekela. The e-mails have been modified and reordered slightly in order to make them more readable and to remove irrelevant content.


Date: Tue, 15 Jan 2002 22:14:57 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Long-time-no-"see"

I (or Renwood, I guess) go first. I took my first turn (shouldn't be any harm in that, I don't think; I want to get the game going!). I read "The adventure begins..." page and then turned to the first encounter.

I don't know what format to use for our turn reports. It doesn't appear we have to tell each other where we are, as in some of the previous books.

Hope you find the Ar-Kane book!

Andy


Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2002 19:16:17 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Long-time-no-"see"

Well, I found my Ar-Kane book. It looks like we still have to report our locations, so I think a "current location / moving to" turn report format makes the most sense. So for your first turn, would you mind sending me a report with your current location (wherever you are in "the adventure begins") and your moving to (the location related to the number you first chose). I don't think you should actually read the result of your first choice until I've made my first choice.

One other complication -- this book doesn't provide hit points for monsters when they're encountered; it's supposed to be kept secret to increase the strategy involved in retreating. I don't think there's really any good way of working around this problem, though, so we may have to sacrifice that feature in the interest of making e-mail play run smoothly. Any thoughts?

- Demian


Date: Fri, 18 Jan 2002 06:12:58 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Long-time-no-"see"

Well, I found my Ar-Kane book. It looks like we still have to report our locations, so I think a "current location / moving to" turn report format makes the most sense. So for your first turn, would you mind sending me a report with your current location (wherever you are in "the adventure begins") and your moving to (the location related to the number you first chose). I don't think you should actually read the result of your first choice until I've made my first choice.

Yes, I was mistaken. (I noticed that when I re-read the rules last night). I will send you a new email with the correct form.

One other complication -- this book doesn't provide hit points for monsters when they're encountered; it's supposed to be kept secret to increase the strategy involved in retreating. I don't think there's really any good way of working around this problem, though, so we may have to sacrifice that feature in the interest of making e-mail play run smoothly. Any thoughts?

I agree; there's no way around this. You can look up the enemy's hit points in the Renwood book. When I fight, you can just email me my enemy's hit points since I still don't have the Ar-Kane book (though I did ask my brother to send it to me).

Andy


Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2002 19:28:17 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Rules Problems Already!

I just noticed two rather significant problems:

1.) Both books say "You go first." So I don't know who is actually supposed to make the first move.

2.) My primary weapons (magical daggers of light) don't indicate how much damage they inflict upon a successful hit! Rather important information to omit, I'd say!

- Demian


Date: Fri, 18 Jan 2002 06:16:15 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Rules Problems Already!

They are pretty significant problems!! I hoped by the fourth book some of these ambiguities would be fixed!

As for who goes first, you may as well go. (Six in one; half-dozen in the other.)

As for your primary weapons, that's a tough one... Do they have any special powers? For reference, I can throw 2 darts a turn, each of which inflict 6 HP. But I only have 4 darts (though they are reusable), so I can really only attack with them on two turns during any battle. How many daggers do you have? Do you throw them or attack in melee?

Andy


Date: Fri, 18 Jan 2002 07:30:28 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Rules Problems Already!

They are pretty significant problems!! I hoped by the fourth book some of these ambiguities would be fixed!

They obviously didn't have very thorough copy editors. To be fair, though, I think certain areas of the rules looked less ambiguous than before (it is very explicit, for example, that players take turns reading one page, not exploring one area -- I don't think this was entirely clear in the past, since I remember it confusing us at one point).

As for who goes first, you may as well go. (Six in one; half-dozen in the other.)

Okay, my first turn will follow shortly.

As for your primary weapons, that's a tough one... Do they have any special powers? For reference, I can throw 2 darts a turn, each of which inflict 6 HP. But I only have 4 darts (though they are reusable), so I can really only attack with them on two turns during any battle. How many daggers do you have? Do you throw them or attack in melee?

Here's what it says:

Weapon: Two Magical Daggers of Light, Bright Beam and Quick Ray. When used against any creatures larger than man-size, the daggers glow brightly, often blinding an enemy and impairing his fighting ability. (No enemy can score a "2X" against you when you use these daggers. Count "2X" as "X".) When using daggers, you cannot use spells.

It seems their special ability is already balanced by a disadvantage. But no damage number. Hmm.

Oh, and speaking of spells, is it just me, or are the first level spells more powerful than many of the higher-level ones? :)

- Demian


Date: Fri, 18 Jan 2002 19:51:03 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Rules Problems Already!

They obviously didn't have very thorough copy editors. To be fair, though, I think certain areas of the rules looked less ambiguous than before (it is very explicit, for example, that players take turns reading one page, not exploring one area -- I don't think this was entirely clear in the past, since I remember it confusing us at one point).

Yes, that was confusing in previous books. I hope they did clean things up a bit!

Here's what it says: [snip]

I'm reaching back a bit here, but I think my brother and I played that each dagger did 3 or 4 HP damage if it hit, and you could attack twice per turn (i.e., once with each dagger).

It seems their special ability is already balanced by a disadvantage. But no damage number. Hmm.

That's not really a disadvantage. I have the same thing - I can either attack with my darts or use spells. I think it's the same as in most games - you can attack OR cast spells, but not both in one turn.

Oh, and speaking of spells, is it just me, or are the first level spells more powerful than many of the higher-level ones? :)

Maybe. My 1st level Entangle spell is really powerful!!

Andy


Date: Sat, 19 Jan 2002 10:17:44 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Rules Problems Already!

I'm reaching back a bit here, but I think my brother and I played that each dagger did 3 or 4 HP damage if it hit, and you could attack twice per turn (i.e., once with each dagger).

Sounds fair to me. But which should it be? 3 or 4 damage? Should we flip a coin? :)

That's not really a disadvantage. I have the same thing - I can either attack with my darts or use spells. I think it's the same as in most games - you can attack OR cast spells, but not both in one turn.

Of course, that makes a lot of sense. I was misinterpreting the rule to mean that during a given battle (rather than a given turn, which is a more sensible interpretation), you could only use daggers or spells but not both.

- Demian


Date: Sat, 19 Jan 2002 11:57:09 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Rules Problems Already!

Sounds fair to me. But which should it be? 3 or 4 damage? Should we flip a coin? :)

How about this... If the first one hits its 4 hp, and if the second one hits it causes 3 hp.

Andy


Date: Sat, 19 Jan 2002 13:12:19 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Rules Problems Already!

How about this... If the first one hits its 4 hp, and if the second one hits it causes 3 hp.

Good compromise! :)

- Demian


Date: Fri, 18 Jan 2002 07:41:18 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 1

I read the first two pages and made the first choice, so it's time for you to do the same!

Current Location: One-Eyed Wanderer
Moving To: Staying Here

- Demian


Date: Fri, 18 Jan 2002 19:52:19 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 1

Current Location: The Enchanted Lake

Moving To: Staying Here

Your move.

Andy

PS It feels good to be back in the game again!


Date: Sat, 19 Jan 2002 10:24:57 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 2

Current Location: One-Eyed Wanderer
Moving To: ???

Your move.

PS It feels good to be back in the game again!

Sure does!

- Demian


Date: Sat, 19 Jan 2002 11:58:51 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Ar-Kane, Turn 2

Looks like I have my first fight already.

Can you give me the hit points and stats for the Pyrohydra, Encounter # 90? I will give you my turn 2 report after I fight it.

Andy


Date: Sat, 19 Jan 2002 13:14:41 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Ar-Kane, Turn 2

Can you give me the hit points and stats for the Pyrohydra, Encounter # 90? I will give you my turn 2 report after I fight it.

A nasty beast indeed!

Pyrohydra's Hit Points: 35

The Pyrohydra has five heads, each doing 3 Hit Points of damage by fire. The creature gets one attack, and if it is successful, each head breathes fire. Every 7 Hit Points of damage done by the Druid and his allies put another head out of action so that it can no longer breathe fire.

Good luck!

- Demian


Date: Sun, 20 Jan 2002 09:04:15 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 2

Current Location: The Enchanted Lake
Actually, the battle against the Pyrohydra wasn't as bad as it should have been. A water sprite gave me a magical teardrop that protected me during the first 2 rounds of the battle.

Moving To: The Willow Path

Your move.

Andy


Date: Sun, 20 Jan 2002 13:04:25 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 3

Actually, the battle against the Pyrohydra wasn't as bad as it should have been. A water sprite gave me a magical teardrop that protected me during the first 2 rounds of the battle.

Those water sprites come in handy sometimes. :)

Current Location: The Battle

Moving To: staying here

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Sun, 20 Jan 2002 19:20:34 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 3

Current Location: The Willow Path

Moving To: Staying Here

Your move.

Andy

PS When you say you're at "The Battle", is that an actual location? I'm just wondering because at the Willow Path I hear sounds of a battle that's coming my way...


Date: Mon, 21 Jan 2002 07:07:35 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 4

Current Location: Battle of the Orcs and Elves

Moving to: Wall of Brambles

I just defeated an army of wimpy orcs.

Your move.

- Demian

PS When you say you're at "The Battle", is that an actual location? I'm just wondering because at the Willow Path I hear sounds of a battle that's coming my way...

So far, there have been no location names in my book, just descriptive titles like "The Battle," which I have reproduced faithfully.

- Demian


Date: Mon, 21 Jan 2002 19:06:49 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 4

Current Location: The Willow Path (still)

Moving To: Staying Here

Your move.

Andy

So far, there have been no location names in my book, just descriptive titles like "The Battle," which I have reproduced faithfully.

I guess mine are the same - not really locations, just descriptions. Not that it really matters. Anyway, it's not the same battle. The battle I walked into was between a huge fighter and some Fire Giants.


Date: Mon, 21 Jan 2002 20:21:58 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 5

Current Location: Castle in the Thorns

Moving to: Going in!

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Mon, 21 Jan 2002 21:45:48 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 5

Current Location: The Willow Path (still)

Moving To: The Giant's Outpost

Your move.

Andy

Looks like I'll be fighting Fire Giants on my next turn. Please give me the stats for the Giants (monster encounter #25).


Date: Tue, 22 Jan 2002 07:48:42 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Renwood, Turn 5

Current Location: Castle of Thorns Moving To: The Sound of Music (maybe I'll fight Julie Andrews)

Your move.

- Demian

Looks like I'll be fighting Fire Giants on my next turn. Please give me the stats for the Giants (monster encounter #25).

4 Fire Giants: 14 Hit Points each

Each of the four giants does 9 HP of damage. Roht the Hammer Warrior kills one Giant every Combat Turn and never misses.


Date: Wed, 23 Jan 2002 06:08:09 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 6

I managed to defeat those pesky fire giants (thanks in large part to Roht).

Current Location: The Giant's Outpost

Moving To: The Hammer Warrior

Your move.

Andy

PS Tell Julie I said hi.


Date: Wed, 23 Jan 2002 07:15:36 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 7

Current Location: Gypsy Camp

Moving To: Staying here

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Wed, 23 Jan 2002 19:18:26 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 7

Current Location: The Hammer Warrior

Moving To: The Zombie Warriors.

Looks like I have another fight brewing. (I have all the fun...) Please let me know the stats for encounter 72, zombie warriors.

Your move.


Date: Fri, 25 Jan 2002 07:11:07 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 8

Current Location: Gypsy Camp (Magic Wagon)

Moving To: Staying Here (heading into battle)

Looks like I have another fight brewing. (I have all the fun...) Please let me know the stats for encounter 72, zombie warriors.

32 hit points, 4 damage per hit.

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Sun, 27 Jan 2002 20:15:05 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 8

Current Location: The Zombie Warriors.

Moving To: The Lone Zombie.

I defeated the Zombie Warriors, but now I have to contend with their leader. Please let me know the stats for encounter 31.

Your move.

Andy


Date: Mon, 28 Jan 2002 07:26:14 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 9

Current Location: Gypsy Camp

Moving To: Staying here.

I just defeated a bunch of warlocks.

I defeated the Zombie Warriors, but now I have to contend with their leader. Please let me know the stats for encounter 31.

22 hit points, 11 damage.

- Demian


Date: Tue, 29 Jan 2002 00:20:06 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Remwood, Turn 9

Current Location: The Lone Zombie.

Moving To: "You will battle the forest itself."

The Lone Zombie is history, but it's not over yet. Now I must battle the Zombie trees. (I just can't get away from these zombies! Where's a cleric when you need one...) Please let me know the stats for encounter 80.

Your move.

Andy


Date: Tue, 29 Jan 2002 12:00:41 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 10

Current Location: Gypsy Hero

Moving To: The Wide Path

The Lone Zombie is history, but it's not over yet. Now I must battle the Zombie trees. (I just can't get away from these zombies! Where's a cleric when you need one...) Please let me know the stats for encounter 80.

This is beginning to sound like Evil Dead II! :)

Anyway, the trees have 42 hit points and do 9 damage.

- Demian


Date: Thu, 31 Jan 2002 07:38:48 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 10

Current Location: "You will battle the forest itself."

Moving to: The Thorn Patch

I was victorious over the Zombie trees, but alas I have yet another battle to fight! Please let me know the stats for encounter 40, the Thorn Monsters.

Your move, Andy


Date: Thu, 31 Jan 2002 07:53:06 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 11

Current Location: Sphere of Dragonkind

Moving to: The Archer

I was victorious over the Zombie trees, but alas I have yet another battle to fight! Please let me know the stats for encounter 40, the Thorn Monsters.

38 hit points, 9 damage.

Hey, did you notice that the books in this set have the wrong covers? Renwood is on the cover of my book and Ar-Kane is on the cover of yours! Check the interior illustrations if you don't believe me. :)

- Demian


Date: Sat, 2 Feb 2002 07:57:18 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 11

Current Location: The Thorn Patch

Moving to: Reaching Lath's Grove

That was my hardest battle yet, but I finally won in the end.

Question for you - I got a special result that said I found a treasure trove with a scroll and a potion. I got this same result in a different area already. Should I have been able to find this treasure only once? I would definitely say to ignore the second treasure trove if both special results were rolled in the same location, but it's a gray area as far as if they're in different areas.

Your move, Andy

Hey, did you notice that the books in this set have the wrong covers? Renwood is on the cover of my book and Ar-Kane is on the cover of yours! Check the interior illustrations if you don't believe me. :)

Remember, I don't have "your" book. However, it doesn't look like Renwood on the cover of mine!


Date: Sun, 3 Feb 2002 09:09:40 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Renwood, Turn 11

Current Location: The Archer

Moving to: The Forest

I just beat up some Roman gladiators!

Your move.

Question for you - I got a special result that said I found a treasure trove with a scroll and a potion. I got this same result in a different area already. Should I have been able to find this treasure only once? I would definitely say to ignore the second treasure trove if both special results were rolled in the same location, but it's a gray area as far as if they're in different areas.

Are you sure you're determining the results correctly? You shouldn't be rolling them; the character bookmark tells you which one to use based on your current page number, and then you add on to that for each subsequent event during the fight. Assuming you're doing this correctly, though, I'd say you definitely should count it even if it's a repeat. :)

- Demian


Date: Mon, 4 Feb 2002 21:23:16 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 12

Current Location: Reaching Lath's Grove

Moving to: Guardian of the First Circle

Your move.

I will be fighting the Guardian, encounter # 92.

Andy

Are you sure you're determining the results correctly? You shouldn't be rolling them; the character bookmark tells you which one to use based on your current page number, and then you add on to that for each subsequent event during the fight. Assuming you're doing this correctly, though, I'd say you definitely should count it even if it's a repeat. :)

I understand what you're saying. The first special result was in area 80. On a different turn, I got a special result in area 40. Both of those special results direct me "specials" # 10, which says I found a treasure trove. Is it reasonable that I found the same treasure trove in two different areas? Per the rules, it is possible. It just may not make the most sense.


Date: Tue, 5 Feb 2002 07:40:31 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Renwood, Turn 12

Current Location: The Witch's Hut

Moving to: Staying here

I will be fighting the Guardian, encounter # 92.

Encounter #92 is "Tree Warrior" in my book -- 25 HP, 5 damage. Does that sound wrong?

I understand what you're saying. The first special result was in area 80. On a different turn, I got a special result in area 40. Both of those special results direct me "specials" # 10, which says I found a treasure trove. Is it reasonable that I found the same treasure trove in two different areas? Per the rules, it is possible. It just may not make the most sense.

Yeah, you can definitely find the same treasure twice under those circumstances. Doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but then, most of the special results don't make a whole lot of sense.

- Demian


Date: Thu, 7 Feb 2002 08:34:56 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 13

Current Location: Guardian of the First Circle

Moving to: The Archdruid's Gift

I defeated the Tree Warrior.

Your move.

Encounter #92 is "Tree Warrior" in my book -- 25 HP, 5 damage. Does that sound wrong?

No, that's right. The illustration shows a tree warrior.

Yeah, you can definitely find the same treasure twice under those circumstances. Doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but then, most of the special results don't make a whole lot of sense.

Agreed. Take a look at my special #2. I just "encountered" it during this battle. Does it mean that EACH of my characters takes 4 HP of damage, or we take 4 HP damage total?


Date: Fri, 8 Feb 2002 06:59:47 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 14

Current Location: The Witch's Hut

Moving to: Staying here.

Your move.

Agreed. Take a look at my special #2. I just "encountered" it during this battle. Does it mean that EACH of my characters takes 4 HP of damage, or we take 4 HP damage total?

That's pretty vague, isn't it? How about, to compromise, it does 4 HP damage to the whole group, but at least 1 point to each person (i.e., if you have more than four party members, each takes 1 HP damage even though that totals more than 4; if you have less than 4, each must take at least one hit).

- Demian


Date: Fri, 8 Feb 2002 21:56:05 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 14

Current Location: The Archdruid's Gift

Moving to: Guardian of the Gate

Your move.

I will be fighting another Guardian (looks like an Ettin), encounter # 122.

Andy

That's pretty vague, isn't it? How about, to compromise, it does 4 HP damage to the whole group, but at least 1 point to each person (i.e., if you have more than four party members, each takes 1 HP damage even though that totals more than 4; if you have less than 4, each must take at least one hit).

Sounds good to me!


Date: Sat, 9 Feb 2002 08:12:30 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 15

Current Location: Another Dimension!

Moving to: Back to the Forest

I just battled a Nonation (encounter 45).

I will be fighting another Guardian (looks like an Ettin), encounter # 122.

It's a Giant Two-Headed Troll with 30 hit points that does 10 damage per turn.

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Sun, 10 Feb 2002 20:35:42 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 15

Current Location: Guardian of the Gate

Moving to: The Second Circle

I kicked some 2-Headed Troll Butt.

Your move.


Date: Mon, 11 Feb 2002 09:34:48 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 16

Current Location: Hidden Statue

Moving To: Staying here.

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Mon, 11 Feb 2002 21:23:07 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 16

Current Location: The Second Circle

Moving To: Staying here.

Your move.

Andy


Date: Tue, 12 Feb 2002 08:17:34 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 17

Current Location: Hidden Statue

Moving To: Thorn-choked trail

I just found a pixie, which means you need to read page 88 in your book.

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Tue, 12 Feb 2002 21:54:00 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 17

Current Location: The Second Circle

Moving To: Staying here.

Your move.

Andy

I just found a pixie, which means you need to read page 88 in your book.

That is most interesting... (That's all I have to say about that.)


Date: Wed, 13 Feb 2002 07:05:45 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 18

Current Location: Castle in the Thorns

Moving To: Staying here.

I seem to be going in circles. Hmm.

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Wed, 13 Feb 2002 07:29:11 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 18

Current Location: The Second Circle

Moving To: The Third Circle.

Your move.

Andy

I seem to be going in circles. Hmm.

Hopefully, that's not because there's a problem with the book!


Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2002 07:23:19 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 19

Current Location: Castle of Thorns

Moving To: Staying here

I just defeated some Ogres. Your move.

Hopefully, that's not because there's a problem with the book!

No, just a problem with my lousy decision-making, I think. ;) In any case, based on your recent locations, a punnish individual might observe that you, too, have been going in "circles."

Sorry, couldn't resist. :)

- Demian


Date: Fri, 15 Feb 2002 00:45:38 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 19

Current Location: The Third Circle

Moving To: Thief!

Your move.

Andy

No, just a problem with my lousy decision-making, I think. ;) In any case, based on your recent locations, a punnish individual might observe that you, too, have been going in "circles."

Sorry, couldn't resist. :)

At least I'm going somewhere! (ha-ha)


Date: Fri, 15 Feb 2002 07:14:22 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 20

Current Location: Castle of Thorns

Moving to: staying here

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Sat, 16 Feb 2002 05:44:33 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 20

Current Location: Thief!

Moving to: Fight the Thief!

Your move.

Please provide the stats for monster encounter 138.

- Andy


Date: Sat, 16 Feb 2002 15:26:38 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 21

Current Location: Castle of Thorns

Moving To: Unicorn Meadow

I just defeated a wolfman and a bunch of wolves. Your move!

The thief you must fight has 31 HP and does 4 damage, but if you get a "2X" he does 12 damage.

- Demian


Date: Mon, 18 Feb 2002 22:57:29 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Renwood, Turn 21

Current Location: Fight the Thief!

Moving to: Battle with your Rival

I defeated the Thief.

Your move.

PS It looks like we're in for a showdown on my next turn...


Date: Tue, 19 Feb 2002 07:11:10 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Ar-Kane, Turn 22

Current Location: Unicorn Meadow

Moving to: The Cave of the Golden Bear

PS It looks like we're in for a showdown on my next turn...

Okay, I'll just queue up the fighting music. ;)

- Demian


Date: Tue, 19 Feb 2002 20:18:08 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Final Battle preps

You and your allies have been transported to the Inner Sanctuary for a final battle. Please turn to page 118.

Okay, I'll just queue up the fighting music. ;)

What did you have in mind?


Date: Wed, 20 Feb 2002 07:33:06 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle preparations

You and your allies have been transported to the Inner Sanctuary for a final battle. Please turn to page 118.

Something's screwy here. 118 is somewhere in Atlantis. I did manage to find the final battle on 134, though.

What did you have in mind?

Something repetitive and video-game-like. ;)

Anyway, now that we're here, who makes the first move? You because you got here first or me because I made the first move in the overall game?

- Demian


Date: Wed, 20 Feb 2002 07:41:45 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Final Battle Turn 1

Two questions:
1) I can't remember how we do it. Do we alternate each character, or do all characters on one side go first, and then the other side?
2) I want to call the Pixie to my side. I think I can do this as the battle starts, but it's kind of a gray area. Please refer to page 88 of Renwood's book. It says I can call the Pixie after you've had one battle. Does that mean I can call him any time after that first encounter, or I have to call him after the first one (before you have a second encounter)?

Andy


Date: Wed, 20 Feb 2002 08:13:58 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 1

1) I can't remember how we do it. Do we alternate each character, or do all characters on one side go first, and then the other side?

We do it a side at a time rather than a character at a time.

2) I want to call the Pixie to my side. I think I can do this as the battle starts, but it's kind of a gray area. Please refer to page 88 of Renwood's book. It says I can call the Pixie after you've had one battle. Does that mean I can call him any time after that first encounter, or I have to call him after the first one (before you have a second encounter)?

It looks to me like you're eligible to call him now.

Anyway, now that we're here, who makes the first move? You because you got here first or me because I made the first move in the overall game?

- Demian


Date: Wed, 20 Feb 2002 22:18:31 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 1

We do it a side at a time rather than a character at a time.

That's what I thought. Just wanted to double-check.

It looks to me like you're eligible to call him now.

Very well. I summon the Pixie to my side. In case you gave him any objects, he brings them with him. He has however many hit points he had with you (up to 5, according to my book) plus 3 more. Also, the entry (88) in my book discusses the arrows he has. Did he have arrows with you? Did he use any?

Anyway, now that we're here, who makes the first move? You because you got here first or me because I made the first move in the overall game?

It doesn't say one way or another. However, since you started first in the game, you should attack first I would think.

Andy


Date: Sat, 23 Feb 2002 08:18:46 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 1

It doesn't say one way or another. However, since you started first in the game, you should attack first I would think.

Fair enough. :)

Very well. I summon the Pixie to my side. In case you gave him any objects, he brings them with him. He has however many hit points he had with you (up to 5, according to my book) plus 3 more. Also, the entry (88) in my book discusses the arrows he has. Did he have arrows with you? Did he use any?

I didn't even get a chance to do anything with him, so he has full hit points and all arrows.

I don't think we actually have to worry about terribly complicated combat rules for this one. I'll just type a chart in the e-mail. This way we can keep our hit points secret and increase the suspense. :)

Ar-Kane's Side, attack 1:

1. Ar-Kane, cast Monster Summon IV: success!
2. Elf Warrior, attack: miss!
3. Swiftwing the Griffon, attack: miss! miss!
4. Brett the Bowman, attack: automatic hit on first turn, 7 damage.
5. Wind Spirit, attack: hit, 12 damage.

note: I just summoned the Wind Spirit this turn; if you don't think it can attack on the first turn, just ignore line #5.

Okay, distribute your damage and do your worst!

- Demian


Date: Sat, 23 Feb 2002 23:28:40 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 1

note: I just summoned the Wind Spirit this turn; if you don't think it can attack on the first turn, just ignore line #5.

That's fine with me, since I have my own creatures I'm trying to summon.

Here's my results:

1. Renwood, casts Call Woodland Beings: miss!
2. Berk the Buckawn, casts Entangle: hit! (Stops all enemies from attacking for 2 combat turns.)
3. Soral the Swanmay, attacks: hit, 8 damage.
4. Verdure Lath, Ranger, attacks: hit (2x), 12 damage total.
5. Pixie, fires Confusion arrow: miss!

That Entangle spell seems a bit powerful. What do you think? (Or maybe you have a way to nullify it...)

Andy


Date: Sun, 24 Feb 2002 09:13:11 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 1

That Entangle spell seems a bit powerful. What do you think? (Or maybe you have a way to nullify it...)

Entangle definitely is pretty powerful, but I don't think there's much I can do about it. The question, though, is does it stop spellcasting or only physical attacks? Any thoughts?

- Demian


Date: Sun, 24 Feb 2002 10:53:44 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 1

Entangle definitely is pretty powerful, but I don't think there's much I can do about it. The question, though, is does it stop spellcasting or only physical attacks? Any thoughts?

How about just physical attacks? So let's say you can still cast spells or use objects. That will at least somewhat balance out this powerful spell.

Andy


Date: Sun, 24 Feb 2002 11:52:03 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Final Battle Turn 2

How about just physical attacks? So let's say you can still cast spells or use objects. That will at least somewhat balance out this powerful spell.

Okay, in that case:

Ar-Kane's Side, attack 2:

1. Ar-Kane, cast Grease: automatic hit, entire enemy group slips and misses all attacks next turn.
2. Elf Warrior, trapped! (turn 1 of 2)
3. Swiftwing the Griffon, trapped! (turn 1 of 2)
4. Brett the Bowman, trapped! (turn 1 of 2)
5. Wind Spirit, trapped! (turn 1 of 2)

Your move. My Grease should just about cancel out one turn's worth of your entanglement.

- Demian


Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2002 07:46:08 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 2

Your move. My Grease should just about cancel out one turn's worth of your entanglement.

I agree. That worked out OK. Your turn again!

Andy


Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2002 08:25:20 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 3

Ar-Kane's Side, attack 3:

1. Ar-Kane, cast Strength on Swiftwing: automatic hit, damage increases.
2. Elf Warrior, trapped! (turn 2 of 2)
3. Swiftwing the Griffon, trapped! (turn 2 of 2)
4. Brett the Bowman, trapped! (turn 2 of 2)
5. Wind Spirit, trapped! (turn 2 of 2)

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2002 21:49:21 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 3

Here's my results:

1. Renwood, casts Call Woodland Beings: miss!
2. Berk the Buckawn, casts Summon Insects: hit! (Does 2 hp of damage each turn for the rest of the battle)
3. Soral the Swanmay, attacks: miss!
4. Verdure Lath, Ranger, attacks: hit, 6 damage.
5. Pixie, fires Confusion arrow: hit! (one being refrains from attacking for 3 turns)

Your move,
Andy


Date: Fri, 1 Mar 2002 18:23:34 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 3

Do the insects do two damage per player per turn, or just two damage per turn?

Two damage per turn total.

Andy


Date: Sat, 2 Mar 2002 11:19:25 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 4

Two damage per turn total.

Sounds good to me. You should probably remind me about this, though, just in case I forget. Anyway, here's the next assault:

Ar-Kane's Side, attack 4:

1. Ar-Kane, cast Monster Summon III: success -- Giant Snapping Turtle summoned.
2. Elf Warrior, attack! hit for 7 damage
3. Swiftwing the Griffon, attack! hit for 10 damage, miss.
4. Brett the Bowman, confused! (turn 1 of 3)
5. Wind Spirit, attack! miss.
6. Giant Snapping Turtle, attack! miss.

Over to you!

- Demian


Date: Sun, 3 Mar 2002 22:16:50 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 4

This was an interesting round...

1. Renwood, casts Call Woodland Beings: Special! Your side takes 7 hp of damage, but each of my allies are also struck and lose 1 hp each.
2. Berk the Buckawn, attacks: hit (2x)! On a 2x, the drugged dart he uses puts one enemy to sleep for the rest of the battle.
3. Soral the Swanmay, attacks: Special! (no effect)
4. Verdure Lath, Ranger, attacks: miss!
5. Pixie, fires War arrow: miss!

You also lose 2 hp from the summoned insects.

Your move,
Andy


Date: Tue, 5 Mar 2002 07:18:34 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

Ar-Kane's Side, attack 5:

1. Ar-Kane, cast Fear: success -- one character on your side permanently flees the battle.
2. Elf Warrior, attack! miss.
3. Swiftwing the Griffon, attack! miss. miss.
4. Brett the Bowman, drugged! (out of fight)
5. Wind Spirit, attack! miss.
6. Giant Snapping Turtle, attack! 2X hit! 16 damage.

Your move.

- Demian


Date: Tue, 5 Mar 2002 22:43:52 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

I'm getting desperate here. Time to pull out all the stops (or at least some of them...).

Renwood's side, Attack 5:

1. Renwood, casts Wall of Fire: Hit! Does 9 hp damage to each enemy. It will work every combat turn, provided Renwood does nothing else. (I still have to roll each turn to see if it hits.)
2. Berk the Buckawn: Runs away (due to Fear spell).
3. Soral the Swanmay, attacks: hit! 8 damage.
4. Verdure Lath, Ranger, attacks: miss!
5. Pixie, fires Sleep arrow: miss!

You also lose 2 hp from the summoned insects. (Since Berk, the caster of the spell, ran away, is the spell still in effect?)

One other question - Wall of Fire - do I need to roll to see if it hits for EACH enemy, or do I just roll once for your group as a whole?

Your move,
Andy


Date: Wed, 6 Mar 2002 08:17:01 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

One other question - Wall of Fire - do I need to roll to see if it hits for EACH enemy, or do I just roll once for your group as a whole?

I think it hits the group as a whole. In any case, doesn't make much difference. You've wiped me out utterly! Victory is yours!

- Demian


Date: Wed, 6 Mar 2002 20:47:53 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

That victory may be short-lived. I still have to face the evil inside the forest. And me and my companions are pretty weak. (All of my allies are down to 2 hp each!)

I have a couple healing potions and spells. Do I have time to use them?

It seems to me that our fight wasn't very well balanced. I didn't even use two of my most powerful items - the Hammer of Summoning (p. 78) and the Oaken Wand (p. 137). Did I just find more stuff than you did??

Andy


Date: Thu, 7 Mar 2002 07:33:22 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

I have a couple healing potions and spells. Do I have time to use them?

I'm sure you have time to do a bit of magic while you're tying me up. ;)

It seems to me that our fight wasn't very well balanced. I didn't even use two of my most powerful items - the Hammer of Summoning (p. 78) and the Oaken Wand (p. 137). Did I just find more stuff than you did??

I found a lot of stuff, but it all happened to be pretty useless. :) In any case, I think if I'd just pounded you with magic missiles instead of trying to be more clever, I'd probably have won. ;)

Anyway, let me know how your confrontation with the big bad guy turns out.

- Demian


Date: Fri, 8 Mar 2002 07:13:54 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

I'm sure you have time to do a bit of magic while you're tying me up. ;)

Sounds good to me. I won't make the ropes too tight...

I found a lot of stuff, but it all happened to be pretty useless. :) In any case, I think if I'd just pounded you with magic missiles instead of trying to be more clever, I'd probably have won. ;)

Silly you - trying to use strategy in one of these books!! (ha-ha)

Anyway, let me know how your confrontation with the big bad guy turns out.

Actually, I'll need your help in the battle, since I still don't have the Ar-Kane book. It's encounter # 128.

Andy


Date: Fri, 8 Mar 2002 08:42:02 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

Actually, I'll need your help in the battle, since I still don't have the Ar-Kane book. It's encounter # 128.

The Earth Spirit has 61 hit points and does 14 points of damage per hit. Lath's body has 35 hit points and casts spells as described in encounter 117 in your own book. It may be an oversight, but the encounter in my book doesn't say anything about his body crumbling to dust like yours does.

- Demian


Date: Fri, 8 Mar 2002 21:52:37 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

The Earth Spirit has 61 hit points and does 14 points of damage per hit. Lath's body has 35 hit points and casts spells as described in encounter 117 in your own book. It may be an oversight, but the encounter in my book doesn't say anything about his body crumbling to dust like yours does.

So it looks like they make 2 attacks against me each turn - one from Lath's body, and one from the Earth Spirit. I'll play out the fight at my leisure; it doesn't need to interfere with the start of our next game.

Andy


Date: Sat, 9 Mar 2002 07:59:19 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

So it looks like they make 2 attacks against me each turn - one from Lath's body, and one from the Earth Spirit. I'll play out the fight at my leisure; it doesn't need to interfere with the start of our next game.

That is correct. Just let me know how it turns out so that I can give my game log closure. ;)

- Demian


Date: Sat, 9 Mar 2002 14:00:25 -0500
From: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
To: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

That is correct. Just let me know how it turns out so that I can give my game log closure. ;)

The battle is over, and I defeated the evil that infested the Grove. It wasn't a very long battle, actually - only 3 rounds. That was largely due to Roht, the hammer warrior. I summoned him on the first round; he had 30 hp and automatically hit (for 14 hp damage) each round. Pretty powerful. I also had an Oaken Wand from 137, which did double damage against creatures in the Inner Sanctuary (i.e., the Evil Spirit and Lath).

They are moot points now, but there were actually several questions I had during the battle:

1) How is damage allocated between Lath and the Evil Spirit? I just split the damage 50-50.
2) Would the Pixie's Confusion or Sleep arrows work on these guys? It just seemed a little silly that those arrows could take down something as powerful as these monsters, so I just had the Pixie fire War Arrows.
3) Before the battle, Soral changed into swan form. When in swan form, any spell cast against her with a "2x" result counts as a miss. If Lath had rolled a 2x against me in the battle (which he didn't), would the spell have been nullified?

Andy


Date: Sun, 10 Mar 2002 07:43:59 -0500 (EST)
From: Demian Katz <demiankatz@gmail.com>
To: Andrew Sekela <sekela-a@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Re: Final Battle Turn 5

The battle is over, and I defeated the evil that infested the Grove.

Congratulations! :)

1) How is damage allocated between Lath and the Evil Spirit? I just split the damage 50-50.

Well, if we had been playing "live," I would have been in control of the bad guys, and thus I think it would have been left to my discretion. I would probably have split the damage to keep both of them alive as long as possible, but you never know, really. :)

2) Would the Pixie's Confusion or Sleep arrows work on these guys? It just seemed a little silly that those arrows could take down something as powerful as these monsters, so I just had the Pixie fire War Arrows.

That was probably wise of you, though you never know.

3) Before the battle, Soral changed into swan form. When in swan form, any spell cast against her with a "2x" result counts as a miss. If Lath had rolled a 2x against me in the battle (which he didn't), would the spell have been nullified?

I would say only if it were a spell that required a physical target.

- Demian