Ascension - Mageocracy

Game Master bbangerter

Roland nodded when Sami mentioned Isstus hold, again requiring no deception. Ah yes, the Hold. They certainly know how to do crime, a specialty really. And you are quite right to say Coran was better. There is the crime war, and Radgar, but shouldn't the government share the blame? After all, who is responsible for keeping the peace, taking care of the populace?? The blasted mageocracy continues to connive.... Appearing to catch himself before going off on a rant, he gives a rueful laugh before continuing, well, I shant bore you with politics. As for the adventure, I say 'nothing ventured nothing gained'! Of course there is cause to assess one's risks but without such it is impossible to claim success. He pauses again for a sip of wine. What of the future for you my dear, any plans? As for me I have this last item of business in the city and then I shall be on my way for a bit.

@GM: Just a reminder that part of Roland's ruse is that he is rabidly anti-mageocracy and is looking for someone named Rocosmia to deliver a message from a "mutual friend", per his initial introduction back in The Crow.

Running is resisting. And this one has had more than enough chances.

Serelina casts phantasmal killer at the half-orc. (DC 21 Will then Fortitude).

Init: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 2 = 14

"Destroyer's side..." Leo quietly mutters as Ian and Serelina destroy his cover.

"Be careful" Leo whispers to Roland via the active message spell, keeping his message short to help keep it from being overheard and compromising Roland.

Leo will move upward on the map at a casual hurry, trying not to allow the scene to attract any more attention as he would if her were to break out into a full run like the others. He stays in his disguise.

If he gets line of sight on the half-orc (and he isn't dead), he casts Hold Person (will DC 19)

Will save: 10
Fort save: 22

Damage: 3d6 ⇒ (5, 4, 3) = 12

At the unleashing of magic, there are shouts of panic and fear among the semi-crowded courtyard.

Ian pushes through the crowds, catching up to the half-orc. Your movement is slowed slightly due to the crowd, but you are able to get adjacent to him.

Leo follows up with another spell, trying to capture the prey.
Will save: 20

The half-orc withdraws further, moving into the narrow street on the north.
About 30' through that street it opens into another major roadway, but I'll get a map update to show that tonight.

Party is up

Roland
Sami's voice is low, "I'd be careful about talking about mageocracy like that. Did you hear what happened to that fellow at The Silver Spirits? Branded for sedition."

"That's right, you were looking for an acquaintance of yours..." she rotates her head towards the east windows. "You hear that? There is something going on out there."

Am I able to move and attack once? or gotta double move to keep up with him?

Double move to keep up

if he moved about 30', you should be able to double move past him at least so he either provokes or changes direction

Map

oh, i thought i was gonna be higher and to the right.

basically i want to get to the top right of the top right building on the south side of the north street. I can easily jump across the alley without possibility of failure, but the 20ft gap is much less likely. I'd like to get there and take a shot.

Double moving then until I can do anything else

oh, i thought i was gonna be higher and to the right.

basically i want to get to the top right of the top right building on the south side of the north street. I can easily jump across the alley without possibility of failure, but the 20ft gap is much less likely. I'd like to get there and take a shot.

If you want to risk the 20' jump you can, but otherwise you had your movement halved while crossing the beams, so that slowed you down a lot. The beams aren't actually 5' wide as shown on the map, rather there is a beam on each side, with lattice work filling in the middle, and vines growing over most of them making the footing a little more treacherous as well. You auto-succeeded on your acro for the beams, but acro still makes you move at half speed.

@GM: did Roland hear anything from outside? Just trying to gauge the probability that the half-orc Messaged something to Sami.

Roland frowned, feigning surprise when Sami mentioned hearing commotion outside unless it was obviously heard by most inside the restaurant. Eh? No, I heard nothing. Roland turned to get a better look out the window, squinting to see what he could. Mumbling back to Sami he said, probably the blasted guard oppressing some bystander they didn't like the look of. Nothing to do with us, I should hope. Sitting back down he smiled and said in a lower voice. I did hear about that chap at the Silver Spirits. Sedition....are we at a point where everyone who questions the mages is branded a criminal?

Roland's actual reaction will depend a bit on what Sami and the rest of the restaurant patrons are doing. He doesn't want to seem to be acting suspiciously to her, but also hopes to blow off the commotion outside as no big deal. If Sami seems insistent that it is a problem or needs to be investigated, he will join her in doing so, his expression growing more worried. Likewise, he'll show more signs of concern if a large number of other restaurant patrons do as well.

Leo doublemoves straight up, and then over in an attempt to intercept the half-orc.

Cursting below her breath, Serelina advances 30' and attempts the spell again.

Tapping her arcane focus to again cast Phantasmall Killer

not gonna risk a 20ft jump, i'd need to get a 16 or better to succeed. I just need to get to the corner to have a shot at the guy fleeing, though that shot will be next turn i still ahve a good chance at hitting him even with distance penalties.

Roland didn't hear anything.

One other patron, sitting near the east window, turns their head to look out towards the courtyard. From this position nothing can be seen to be going on either. "Hmmm. Nothing will ever change if no one stands up to oppression. Let's go check it out." she says with a wink. "We've got some time before they bring us our food. Besides, I want to make a few women out their envious that I got you." She stands, holding out her hand, waiting for Roland to offer his arm.

Will save: 19
Fort save: 29

Damage: 3d6 ⇒ (3, 1, 2) = 6

The half-orc shrugs off the effects of the second spell, with Ian close on his heels and Leo running to cut him off. The half-orc draws his falchion, taking a tentative swipe at Ian, then stepping back 5'.
Fighting defensively. Attack d20 + mods = 8

Those in the street nearby, quickly back away from the area, creating a clear line between Leo and the half-orc.

A moment later, a catfolk rises up from where he was crouched low on the roof, firing off three arrows in rapid succession at Serelina.
Attacks d20 + mods = 23, 16, 20.
She gets an additional +2 to AC from soft cover of people milling about in the courtyard.
Two hits I believe. Damage d8 = 7, 10

Moved Rilumin 60', moving him over to the next building (though you can change that to just move further north on the other building instead if you want.

Party is up
Map

Ian easily parries the half-orc's defensive slash then presses forward aggressively, 5' stepping in pursuit as he quickly thrusts his greatsword forward at the half-orc's gut, then following up with a heavy diagonal cleave.

P.Atk: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (12) + 15 = 27
Dmg: 2d6 + 17 ⇒ (6, 3) + 17 = 26
P.Atk: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14
Dmg: 2d6 + 20 ⇒ (1, 5) + 20 = 26

A few recommendations for the folks outside. Ian has the half-orc right where he wants him. Rilumin could go after the catfolk archer. Leo can help Ian finish off the half-orc, or if he has it cast some sort of Will save forcing spell at the catfolk archer.

Assuming Serelina is out of spells and has any dimensional steps/dim door/other teleporting means left, she could leave and get the guards. Other idea is simply to get inside or out of the range of Drewan the Catfolk archer.

Roland initially smiles in response to Sami's plan to go outside together, holding out his arm. But as she takes it a stunned, fearful look comes over his face. Stopping, he turned to face the irfrit with a low whisper. Wait. Is there any chance you were followed here? I'm...I'm afraid I may have put us in danger. That must be the mages, they may be on to me! Looking around he adds, we should take a back exit, try to escape. Despite his words, Roland does not yet move past the table, as if the conversation with Sami is still open.

Mostly stalling here, trying to hold her off doing anything for a bit

oh yeah, already tired of her BS and gonna shoot at her. will move 5ft to get a better shot if needed

Shot 1 (two arrows)
RS+DA+PBS: 1d20 + 11 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 11 + 1 = 20
dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11
dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (5) + 10 = 15

Shot 2
RS+DA+PBS: 1d20 + 11 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 11 + 1 = 13
dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (5) + 10 = 15

Shot 3
RS+DA+PBS: 1d20 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 6 + 1 = 8
dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 10 = 12

no penalties for shooting into melee or concealment

Gdamn, those double 1's.

yeah, not a roll over 8. dice roller woes.

Ian and Rilumin each strike their targets once.

Leo and Serelina are up

Leo moves to help pin in the half-orc (moving two squares above him). Spotting the catfolk from this position, he casts Murderous Command (will 18) on him.

Keeping an eye on the little satyr-like creature, Leo will cast stone shield if either it, or the half-orc move up to attack Leo.

Knowledge check on that creature? Knowledge (arcana) +9 (5), Knowledge (religion) +10

Thinking that Rimulin can take the archer, Serelina walks towards Ian's fight and tries to shift the odds further in his favor.

Cast Enervation: 1d4 ⇒ 1 Negatve Levels to the half Orc.

Will save vs Murderous command: 19

The half-orc flinches in pain from the dark energy striking him from Serelina's pointing finger.

The small creature throws off its cloak, launching itself towards Ian as a pair of dragon-like wings spread outward from its back, but the wall of stone rising up between it and its target brings it up short.
Attack: 19

The catfolk steps off the roof, dropping down behind Ian. As he drops he lets out a shrill whistle. There is a bestial roar from the east, and the crowds in the street let out terrified screams.

He lets his composite bow fall to the ground and pulls out a greatsword, taking advantage of his flanking position with the half-orc.
Attack: 24. Damage 2d6 + mods = 10

The half-orc in turn lays into Ian with full fury.
Attacks: 24, 25 (crit confirm 15). Damage 11, 15

Sami raises one eyebrow at Roland, "Ah, but this could be fun, come on." Whether he follows or not she pushes her way into the kitchen, heading out the back door.
Unless Roland takes some action to stop her.

Map

Party is up

actobatics: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (13) + 17 = 30

Rilumin moves to -B44

I'll delay until after Leo's turn.

I'm guessing you mean the creature flies at Leo, not Ian?

Noticing these threats, Leo shouts out to the others. "We've got an Eidolon. I'm not sure who the conjurer is! Also, a, uhhh... Rather large cat. Ehehe..." Leo trails off with a bit of nervous laughter as he looks at the threats surrounding him.

Leo casts another hold person (will 19) on the falchion wielding orc, and then moves serpentine to end at H-45 (looks like I can avoid opportunity attacks this way).

Glancing past the orc, Leo mutters a question to Ian. "Said your prayers, recently?", and arches one of his illusory disguis' eyebrows.

(Looks like my AC is three lower, though it hasn't come up yet. I don't believe my shield is currently equipped.)

Yes, should have been flying at Leo, not Ian.

Serelina hopes to help drop the half-orc in time for Ian to face the cat-folk without being flanked and casts magic missile.

Magic Missile: 5d4 + 5 ⇒ (1, 3, 3, 2, 4) + 5 = 18

Was going to throw a create pit in there, but Leo stepped where I needed it to go ;-P

@GM: feel free to miss a saving throw roll one of these times...you're killing our plan!

Also, maybe Serelina's magic missile could get redirected to the Catfolk if Leo successfully Hold Person's the half-orc. Ian can coup de grace the half-orc if he is Held

Roland briefly watched Sami head out the back door door, a smile crossing his face as he followed behind. Looks like make-believe time is over, thinking briefly again he added but perhaps not completely

Roland then darted out the door behind Sami. Whatever it is must be this way! He then quickly darted east and south around the corner 30' move action to B28, out of Sami's sight. He then let out an ear-piercing scream. AARGH...what are you doing to me!! NOOO!!! SAMI!! HELP ME!!! He then drew on his magic, enlarging himself to massive proportions while letting his true form shine through.

Standard action cast Enlarge Person on himself, occupying B/C 28/29. He'll threaten A28 if Sami comes that way, hoping to hit+grab her. Roland now looks like his full fused Eidolon form: 4 arms, void face, silvery armor, but continues to use disguise so that he does not bare any resemblance to Roland or "Llewellyn".

Also, maybe Serelina's magic missile could get redirected to the Catfolk if Leo successfully Hold Person's the half-orc. Ian can coup de grace the half-orc if he is Held

Yes please.

Enlarge person is a full round action.
Will save: 20 - apparently it won't be as fun if they fail a save...
Need to double check how low the half-orc is on HP when I get home

*Sigh* Yeah, I don't know what Roland is doing next. Feels like this whole plan isn't working out

EDIT: Roland will dash out of the building and do a double move to G30, motioning Sami to follow.

Ian bellows as he's flanked and hacked at in the alleyway, pressing his attack on the half-orc. "I don't die that easy, orc. I'll f$$%ing gut you and your friend next!" He thrusts his sword at the half-orc's stomach--as promised.

This orcs got some decent AC. Gonna switch to vital strike.

P.Atk,V.Strike: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (16) + 15 = 31
Dmg: 4d6 + 20 ⇒ (5, 4, 6, 4) + 20 = 39

The half-orc has already taken 62hp's plus a level drain. If he's down, Ian's nice gut-stab could go on the catfolk

Forgot to apply sneak attack damage on Ian when the catfolk was flanking him. Ian takes another 4 points.

Serelina's magic slams into the half-orc, dropping him to the ground, allowing Ian to focus on the catfolk instead. Unless you want to make sure the half-orc is dead.

Seeing Roland move south, Sami motions to him, "No this, see over there." she points in the direction of Serelina and Rilumin. She begins casting a spell, then vanishes from sight.

As Rilumin races across the rooftops, leaping the 20' gap over to the next building, the panther rounds on the corner on Ian, and a disembodied voice near Ian and Leo intones another spell. The panther, catfolk, and another human who did not scatter with the rest, have their movements accelerated.

The new combatant closes in on Leo while the eidolon circles around behind him. The new comer is not anyone matching the descriptions from the scrying, but is wearing a chain shirt and is armed with a short sword. A quiver of arrows and short bow are slung over his shoulders.
Eidolon attack: 18
Human attack: 21. Damage d6 + 4d6 = 18

Panther attack on Ian: 13
The catfolk lays into Ian with fury.
Attacks: 23, 32 (crit confirm 33), 28 (crit confirm 16). Damage 4d6 + mods = 24, 2d6 + mods = 10

Map

Party is up

Rilumin pumps as many new arrow-holes into the catfolk as he can. will use Entangling Shot if i hit, making the catfolk entangled (as the condition) for one round

Shot 1 (two arrows)
RS+DA+PBS: 1d20 + 11 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 11 + 1 = 18
dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17
dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14

Shot 2
RS+DA+PBS: 1d20 + 11 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 11 + 1 = 26
dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17

Shot 3
RS+DA+PBS: 1d20 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 6 + 1 = 17
dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 10 = 12

no penalties for shooting into melee or concealment

Despite the close range, Rilumin only manages to hit once.

Yup hitting the catfolk then. also, ouch. 6 hp left

@GM: Oops, mistake from last round's action from Roland. I meant move NORTH to -G30. Didn't realize until now we had both "G" and "-G" on the map.

Roland put on a wide-eyed, panicked expression as he rounded the corner. The mages! They've found me!! Gods no! As he shouted the words, his head swung in the direction of the roof to his west. He puts his hands up as if to shield himself from some effect coming from that direction, shrieking AGHH!! STOP...NOOO..SAMI HELP ME!! while immediately convulsing in place. As he did so he let his disguise go to morph into his fused eidolon form, a 7 foot tall, silver-armored, hooded, void-faced angelic monstrosity with 4 armors ending in claws. Then in a completely different, disembodied voice he boomed YES MASTER, WILL OBEY before sprinting directly behind the small creature accosting Leo. There he slashed at the beast with a claw, attempting to grab it.

Free action theatrics in a loud voice, designed to convince Sami and her crew that "Llewellyn" was the hapless victim of some horrible mageocracy spell. Current disguise is as outsider type, looking nothing like Roland or Llewellyn. Then a full-round charge action to G38 to hit the little guy with flank

Charge Attack, with flank 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (12) + 16 = 28

Damage, if hits 1d6 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15

Grapple Attempt, if hits 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (13) + 18 = 31

@Leo: The human you are facing is likely Digger. With the little guy no longer threatening (hopefully a 31 CMB will overcome it's CMD), Digger can't sneak attack anymore without the flank, which should render him much less effective. Ian desperately needs healing if you have any way to do it.

@Rest: The Drewan the catfolk has now taken 56hp's of damage, and Ian still has his turn coming up. Dropping him would be huge. I'd like to take one of them alive, preferably one without a good bluff check, but the rest we should try to kill outright to prevent any last minute escapes. The haste spell was probably cast by the summoner controlling the little eidolon. He's invisible here somewhere. Lastly, I'm beginning to think the panther might actually be an animal companion rather than a summons. Panthers are typical summons animals, and its possible Drewan the catfolk (who whistled for it to come) is a ranger archetype with the panther as his companion. If so, it might actually be pretty weak.

Serelina has See Invisible active

Hold up, I'm pretty confused. I declared movement earlier to put me in flanking with Ian on the half-orc, and not only does it look like I haven't been moved at all, but I don't see anything explaining Leo's movement failing. Am I missing something?

I missed the move part, I will need to update/retcon partially to fix that.

Still dealing w retcon stuff? Wondering if Ian hit the catfolk

Updated map. Leo only takes 3 damage, no SA applied. The panther attacks him, to no effect.

Between Ian and Rilumin, the catfolk drops to the ground, and the panther lets out a yowl.

Roland, charge against the Eidolon, or the human?

Serelina is still up

Map

Cool, I haven't taken my turn yet this round either. I'll do so no that things are updated. Thanks GM for working that out.

Leo grits his teeth as he calculates everything happening around him, wishing everything wasn't so clustered up. He equips his shield (move action), securing his defenses.

Then he channels the strength of Nethys, making sure to omit the two fallen enemies from the healing effect. (standard, no AoO provoked)

The half-orc and catfolk are exempt from the following, but everyone else within a 30 foot burst recovers...
Healing: 4d6 ⇒ (6, 2, 4, 1) = 13

Whew, bit of breathing hp. ty

@GM: Yep, still charge attack w./flank on the little guy. I'm assuming I can keep my same rolls since nothing has changed.

@Rilumin: recommend shooting the human (Digger) if you can get a full attack action on him. Otherwise, shoot the panther once and move to A40. That will give you a great overwatch position for the remaining combatants

@All: let's take the catfolk alive for questioning. The half-orc could be coup de grace'd. Hopefully we can kill Digger, the panther and ideally Sami before they try to escape.