Call Forth Darkness! (Inactive)

Game Master Aku Warashi

Battle Map; Loot;

Evil Lair; Dramatis Personae

Name-------------HP--------VP
Agrippa--------??/??-------2
Cedric----------??/??-------1
Eldred----------??/??-------2
Johan-----------??/??--------2
Grumble-------??/??

Villain Points


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Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Here is what the map looks like.


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

Well, this is an incredibly useful find.


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

Looking at the map itself its 1" = 1/4 of a mile so the horn is at max 1 or 2 miles from the edge of the forest - a morning of travel. How many days from town to the forest?


Male Devilbound Human |Inquisitor 9| HP 90 | AC 30(T14/FF25) |CMB +14; CMD 27 | Saves Fort +11, Ref +7 Will +11 | Initiative +9, Perception +15, Sense motive +18, Intimidate+24 LOOT

Johan grinned broadly at their luck in finding the map.

Well, now we have a destination. He looks to Eldred, who seems to have put himself in charge of provisioning the group. When can we be ready to leave?


Male Dwarf Warlord 1 [ HP: 12/12 | AC: 17 T: 11 FF: 16 | CMD: 16 | F: +4 R: +1 W: +2 (+3 vs. poison, spells and spell-like abilities) ]

Wodin's wicked smile returns when they discover the map. "All need is armor on back, and ready to depart," he answers when Johan questions Eldred. "If must get supplies first, is fine, but must be striking of iron when hot!" The dwarf nods deeply. "This Kael is might be forgiven for wasting your coin, yes?" the Stonelord asks the Inquisitor, his thick arms crossed across his broad chest.


Journal Formulae/Consumables Hp 45 AC 17, T 13, FF 14, F+3, Ref +8, Will +6. Speed 30ft, Perc +11, Init +3

Agrippa sighs at the hasty inquisitor What do you know of this Caer Bryr? Perhaps we should spend some time inquiring about the Horn and the Caer before we tromp into the Woods.

I'm not ready to leave my warm rooms and bath!


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3
Johan Hale wrote:

Johan grinned broadly at their luck in finding the map.

Well, now we have a destination. He looks to Eldred, who seems to have put himself in charge of provisioning the group. When can we be ready to leave?

I'm going to say 10 days provisions each - 2 days worst case scenario there, 2 days back and 5 days to explore, a day in reserve.

Lets say a mule as well to carry ropes, grapples, crampons etc if we need to scale the Horn. I'd like to pack an extra few quivers of arrows as well.


Sidious nods at Eldred's idea of 10 days of provisions. A good call Eldred. 10 days at least. Also we should see if this town has a wand of curing for sale, if our coffers can afford one.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Post up your purchases. If you stay more than one week at the city, Johan is able to get the weapon he wants.


Male Devilbound Human |Inquisitor 9| HP 90 | AC 30(T14/FF25) |CMB +14; CMD 27 | Saves Fort +11, Ref +7 Will +11 | Initiative +9, Perception +15, Sense motive +18, Intimidate+24 LOOT

Johan suddenly learns patience when some member of the group points out to him that give a week or so the baron would be able to secure him a fine magical weapon with which he could hit people.

Over the course of the week Johan assists with securing their provisions. He also gathers as much information about the forest and its threats as he can find. His youth spent in a Mitran monastery serve him well in finding his way around an archive, so he spends some time researching "deamons," and how they are different from the devils that Cardinal Thorn and Agrippa hold in such high regard.
Know Arcana: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15

He checks in on Grumblejack.

He sets up a meeting with the seventh knot to confirm their plans for sharing information, and to see if all their planning has created any waves.

And, because he bores easily, Johan spends an afternoon checking out the orphanage that he heard mentioned in passing when they first arrived in Farholde, thinking it might be a cheap source of labour if they need porters for their journey.


Journal Formulae/Consumables Hp 45 AC 17, T 13, FF 14, F+3, Ref +8, Will +6. Speed 30ft, Perc +11, Init +3

If Agrippa has the time he will spend it preparing for the inevitable summoning of his Zebub.

Kn:Arcana: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (18) + 15 = 33 for research, including 100GP for access to books, Jeebs will be procuring those books.

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (11) + 14 = 25 for knowledge of how to prepare the ritual to summon the Zebub.

GM:
What information is Agrippa gleaning from this? How close would you say he is to actually being able to summon the Devil? Agrippa's goal is to summon the Zebub to spy on the Baron and/or the other Knot


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

Skipping ahead to the meeting with the underworld boss?


Ogre

@Johan

”Hey un. Grumblejack thought you had forgotten about him.” he says somewhat distracted ”Grumblejack knows this place.” he says looking into the Briar direction But Grumblejack can’t remember it. he finish sounding impatient with this situation.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

@Agrippa

Agrippa research about summoning a devil and bind it to his will.
Agrippa knows that there’s little to do after his research, what’s missing now, is how will he bargain with the devil. Will he threaten it? Exchange favors?
Now that he thinks about it, he remembers the master advice about dealing with devils, specially the stronger ones, and he do remembers talking with Tiadora as if she were a lowly servant. In addition, from this, he is now aware of something else. He did not received the asked items! The fury took his money, but he is yet to see the items that he need!

Well, you did said for her to buy it, you forgot to say when…


Journal Formulae/Consumables Hp 45 AC 17, T 13, FF 14, F+3, Ref +8, Will +6. Speed 30ft, Perc +11, Init +3

Oh. Well that sucks. I guess I'm out a whole bunch of gold then.


Male Dwarf Warlord 1 [ HP: 12/12 | AC: 17 T: 11 FF: 16 | CMD: 16 | F: +4 R: +1 W: +2 (+3 vs. poison, spells and spell-like abilities) ]

Wodin spends the week with prayer and personal training in addition to his usual bar-hopping at night. He makes sure he has plenty of mundane supplies, and that his armor and weapons are in top condition. 'Must make knot trust me,' he thinks to himself on the day before they are to depart, 'Will not be earning of respect without trust. When see my prowess, will understand why am here.'


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

@Eldred

Given the time, you return to the Lord of Drownington manor.
The place is friendly as ever, as you see another set of drunken fight erupts as you walk by.

You approach the one you talked with before, and without saying anything, he points the stairs, indicating the second floor.

You do as he says and once in the second floor, in the end of a corridor full of closed (but as you walk by you hear they are not unoccupied ) doors. At its very end, a double door, with a single guard posted outside. That’s probably the lords room.
You walk confidently to the guard and as you approach he says ”Wha ye be wantin ‘ere?”


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

Drownington:
The Boss with a goodwill offering. He'll be expecting me but come with, you may have an idea or two.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

@Eldred.

The guard give you a level stare and before opening the door he says ”Don ye be tryin anytin funni boya.”

As he opens the door, you are surprised with the view. What you see remind you more of a nobles house than a crime lord office.
The room richly decorated and adorned. The furniture seems old and it is more detailed than what you are used to see.

A large desk, with some paper scattered about. A whiskey bottle with some cups, a finely made dagger and some writing utensils.

Behind the desk, a large man occupies a large and comfortable looking chair. Bald, scarred, and vile looking. Sitting at his lap, a half-naked frightened looking girl. The marks of abuse all clear to see.

”Ye wanted to see me. Better be worth me time, or I’ll make sure you regret it.”

Eldred, to avoid stalling the game with this scene, in one post, describe what you want and how you want.


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

Eldred gives the man a slight bow and nods.

I am from a crew of the capital and while strictly speaking not working in your city, my interests lie outside it, its good practice and better manners to see the man who really runs things locally.

Eldred slowly and with respectful caution closes but stays outside arms reach. He places a heavy kidskin pouch on the table100gp and then sits. A token of thanks for your time, he says of the offering - one of respect as much as anything else.

I work as an adventurer at the moment but have pulled a few jobs of my own when Morgenstern was running the Westside and merchant districts, Eldred says speaking of the guild master who was hung a few months before his own fiasco took place.

The current master of Drownington seemingly has little patience for 'old times' and name dropping so he gets to the point. He lays down another pouch, a slightly heavier one 120gp.

I need this to get back to a crew there - and a message. "A friend of the Croft wants to get the old band back together - take these fruits and watch well til further word come". If it makes its way to the 'Red Dog' then word should be sent to Susie Double Dee and Slick Shep - that will see them able to live decently for a bit. I'll likely have another such transfer in the future.

He pauses and says, These money transfer services normally come with a 'handling fee', typically 20% - Its included here.

Finally I thought I may offer you a free disposal service - I'm due to head to the Briar - Adventuring and you know what, but I do enjoy cutting on snitches. If you've a one that you need to disappear with no lead back to you, say one who was too chummy with the local authorities, then I could take him somewhere for a play. Failing that I enjoy lawyers - if you've one you'd like to see gone, then just say the word - they won't trouble you again.

Eldred inclines his head to the local guildmaster Needless to say, I won't touch a hair of anyones head, nor do any work in your town without your approval and say so - proprietaries are very important when dealing with someone who could see me disappear in turn if I were to give offense.

At last he smiles, While I won't be working in your patch, I'd like a friendly relationship - who knows what profit can accrue from chance alliances.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

The chieftain grab the woman hair and toss her aside. The gesture seems to have caught her by surprise, as she hits the ground and starts to sob. A growl and a heavy look from the bully is all that has needed to silence her.

The man gets up, and now, looking closer, Eldred can see that in terms of brute strength, the chieftain would not lose to Johan or Sidious. From the way he walks, his heavy steps, Eldred is able to determine he is someone used to heavy armors and heavy blades.

Without saying anything, the man walks to the door, and whisper something to the guard, making he leave promptly.

From behind Eldred, he says ”Ye know, that’s a bit rude. Ye came to my house, ye tells me to be your mailing contact, and not a fake name ye gives me?” he does not seems to be annoyed however as he continues ”The name is Rubal Thraam. What’s the name of the mask ye are wearing now?”


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

We all wear many masks, even gray ones from time to time. I be Crofter, though my old crew think me dead but I still, for the moment suck breath. I wear Timeon for now. Eldred rolls his neck and shoulders forward and then tilts to the side as he rises... Better to avoid a garrotte or a restraining hand and turns to face the guild master.

Eldreds left hand rises to cover the area around his eyes, forming a symbolic mask.

No offense meant though Master Thraam, he apologies. I had thought a gift and some profit would find some favour. The offer for house cleaning is a genuine one.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

”No offence taken.” he says ”Yer message will be delivered, and yer offer is accepted.” he stares at you for some moments then he continues ”gray may be yer intentions, black are my designs. Our beliefs disagree, that however is just one more step to be climbed.” while saying, he returns to his chair, at the same moment the guard returns, bringing some drinks, and giving you murderous looks.
”Let’s drink, and finish the details of this alliance.” he commands.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

@Johan
Talking, coercing and most of the times bullying others to your will, you began to gather more information about the Briar.
This is what you were able to get from the peasants you bullied.
” On the northern edge of the Caer Bryr are those strange hills called the Karst. They say somewhere in those hills is lost a great treasure!” – nameless peasant one.
” The Caer Bryr is full of living trees – everyone knows that, but its rare to see them so far north. Still, I’ve heard tell that one dwells not a day’s ride from this very tavern!” – scared drunken elf one.
” Those strange hills in the Briar are haunted no two ways about it. Anyone who goes there isn’t coming back!” coward wannabe adventurer one.
” Old One-Eye’s back. He’s half-tiger, half-devil that old cat! Big as a house!” nameless housewife gossip one.

==//==

The Vandermir Orphanage
Baron Arkov Vandermir established this orphanage obstensibly to help the most needy of Farholde’s children. In truth, the orphanage’s actual purpose is to give the Baron muscle. The older boys are taught to fight and steal. Those who excel at this brutality are eventually recruited into the Baron’s personal retinue. This gang of toughs does Arkov’s dirty work. While the Duke was here, the Baron had to be discrete. But now, the Baron is determined to use all his might to secure his position as the most powerful person in Farholde.

The Orphanage itself is an imposing structure teeming with children of all ages. The buildings are well maintained and the children certainly seem well taken care of. The headmaster, Bergill Mott (human wizard) is careful to ensure that the orphanage puts forward a fine official face. Master Mott sees that the orphanage’s worst offenses are confined to darkness. Still, it is difficult to contain several score young enterprising thugs and the hill around the orphanage has become a famously crime-ridden neighborhood.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

@Sidious

During the time you spent in the town, your familiar kept his vigil other Elise party.
They were all business.

Elise rent herself a room in a good inn, while the others kept busy about, going from inn to inn, tavern to tavern. At the week’s end, they had set a network of spies and message carriers that made you a little bit envious.

One other thing you were able to confirm: Elise is not a follower of Asmodeus, more than once it was reported to you that she reveres an unknown entity that she calls “The Endless Winter”.
However, Trik, despite of your doubts about him, is a cleric of Asmodeus.


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

I'd like to arrange purchase through you and yours for specialty items for one thing, profitable for you, convenient for me, Eldred says accepting a shot of booze.

And I was serious about that clean up offer - its got some meaning for me - hoping its especially beneficial for you.

He raises his glass to toast his new ally.


Sidious praises Abraxas and shares what he has found with the group. The Endless Winter. He ponders.

knowledge Religion: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

@Eldred

”What ye want to buy? Hand the list to the lad outside, and he’ll see to it.” says Rubal, the he stops to ponder a bit and says ”One of my workers, a promising one, is refusing to work and pay her debt to the house. Mother is sick, child running around with no one to take care of it, she complains. That can’t be, I was about to send someone else, but since yer are offering.” he fiddles with the desk and pick up a small pouch and a note a give it to you ”No need to report back, when she is back here, I’ll know yer were successful.”

Pouch + Note:

The pouch contains about 80gp, thing you consider it’s payment for the job and a vial that you are sure it’s poison.

In the note, it reads the woman address and situation.

Whore name: Estel Newfeld
Mother sick, father and husband off to war, son has seven years.

Orders: kill the old hag, cripple and poison the son, let the woman know who was responsible, and that if she wants the antidote, she need to work for it.

If you want to do it, you can set it up the scene the way you want, no tests or battle is needed, just put it inside a spoiler, for safety measures.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

@All

When the week is at an end, you receive message from Elise, informing that she is ready and all is set up.
“When you do find the Horn of Abaddon, contact me.” her note says finally.

==//==
It is perhaps startling how little exploration has been done of the Caer Bryr by the inhabitants of Farholde. There is a simple reason for this -- the Caer Bryr is phenomenally dangerous. When Farholde was conquered almost three centuries ago, a number of expeditions set out to explore the jungle. None of them ever came back.
Every few decades a new generation gets the brilliant idea -- let’s explore the Briar! The results are usually much the same -- few survivors. What survivors do come back relate tales of an endless wilderness of monsters and barbarians. And so the people of Farholde keep to their hills.
==//==

The northern Caer Bryr is a temperate rain forest richly blessed with rain fall and broadleaf trees. The trees here are tall and broad. The thick-trunked baobab tree, unusual in such a wet clime, is common here and grows to enormous size. It is not uncommon to see trees hundreds of feet tall with trunks twenty feet across. To walk into the deep Briar is to enter the domain of giants.

Every flat surface is covered with brilliant green moss and lichens in every hue. Mushrooms of a million sorts proliferate and crowd every fallen log. Small animal life is dense -- squirrels, voles, mice and white-faced ghost monkeys. Birds dwell here in endless variety and dazzling panoramas of plumage are everywhere on display. It is a bountiful place rich and thriving with nature’s splendor.

Perhaps the single most famous feature of the northern Briar are the great stone spires. They proliferate everywhere in this jungle rising hundreds of feet above the forest floor. Often covered in foliage, they are the home to countless small animals. These are natural spires though the Iraen are full of stories about how they were carved by ancient giants.
This is how this entire region looks like.
This is how the horn looks like;

After all of your preparation, and with Kael’s map, finding the Horn is an easy thing.

Are you guys traveling on foot? Did you purchase some horses? Donkeys?
Also, describe again what disguise you are using, if you are using any.
I'll move things, but feel free, in your first post after mine, to describe anything you could have done in your week in the city


Journal Formulae/Consumables Hp 45 AC 17, T 13, FF 14, F+3, Ref +8, Will +6. Speed 30ft, Perc +11, Init +3

Agrippa, with the aid of his new man Jeebs, continues his research. He is rarely seen outside of his rooms during the week, once the Knot decided what day they were leaving he retired to the Inn and sequestered himself away, deep in study.


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

As nasty a piece of dark prose as I've done in a while:
Eldred did a brief shopping trip then waited on much of the evening watching the whores place in one guise or another. He would walk down the street as a ill clad worker, muttering swear words, then he'd round a corner, wait for an appropriate moment and wander back down as an old woman, hawking and spitting.

This circlet is a damn fine bit of work, he thought after one of his quick changes.

For the last hour he'd been across the street in the guise of an old drunk, seemingly curled up in sleep until dark lay deep upon the streets and foot traffic had all but ended.

He rose and crossed the street and fished in his pocket for a hook and twine. The family locked the door to their meager home with a latch - simply dealt with by fishing through the gaps and pulling the latch up.

The door creaked - nothing that could be done about that but he'd planned for it. He crossed the room with three rapid steps as he freed up a sunrod and tossed it to the ground.

There!

He crossed the room and pulled the boy roughly from his pallet.

'ave a care ladies, he growls in a voice to match the rough features of the drunk he wore before entering the hovel. The boys life is in your hands an' I'll slit his weasland ifn' yer gives me any trouble - I's just wantin' a few coin and any booze yer have an' I'll be on my ways.

Always give the mark something they THINK they understand, let them think they know the rules of the game.

They start to wail and cry out but a dagger laid to the sniveling childs throat soon ended that. The lad must have been all of five years old.

Please, he says in desperate brittle tones, I's the dry horrors. I don' wanna kill the lad but I will so shut yer faces and get me on me way. I's just need a drink - gotta put the demons t' sleep.

In short order a few coppers and a mostly full bottle of gin is produced in shaking hands. They are scared but not terrified to take risks. They just want to get through this night and they think they can see the end of their trail... they know what they face - a violent desperate alcoholic but they've dealt with them before.

Bring it up Granny, Eldred groans in relief of his own, taking the boys head and firmly wedging it under his left arm in a headlock, tucking the blade into his belt with his other hand.

'Granny' must have done more than her time on the streets at a young age herself - she was middle aged and her expression harder than that of a cheated brothel madam. She was cautious in her approach, all the while young whore sobbed and wept quietly.

Eldred snatched the bottle from her hand.

Take the boy, he groans as he thumbs off the cork... drawing her in.

Eldred doesn't think she'd have closed normally if it hadn't of been for the fact that he raised the bottle to his lips with a trembling right hand. It was that act that led her to ignore caution, thinking she had it all figured out. That was when Eldred spat the raw liquor into her face as he dropped the bottle and grabbed her by the throat with strong steely fingers.

The old woman gagged, coughed as she clawed at his hand raising bloody streaks in response to his assault but such pain was nothing to Eldred. He looked over at the young whore, his face as cold and serious as an undertakers.

Make any noise and I kill them both!, he utters in a low deadly voice, all signs of drunkenness now gone. I'm here to give a lesson and you're to mark it well, heedless of struggles of both the middle aged woman and the child, whose positions allow him to cut off any screams or cries they tried to make.

Don... don'... don't hurt them, the young woman sobbed desperately. I'll be gooooooood. I prom-miss-iss.

Its fun to play with your mark. To lead them to throw good after bad, thinking that they know the score. Its more fun to do that when its not money but their lives that are up for grabs.

Choose, he says simply while 'granny' tried every street fighting tactic she knew but Eldred locked her out at arms length and tightened his grip.

I don't understand, she says through the tears.

Whose to die? Your mother whose had a good run of it, turning you out to ride men for a living or your beautiful boy, who loves you in spite of what you are and has his whole life in front of him?

The words were chosen well. There would be tears, there would be agonising over the choice she was being offered but he'd effectively made her decision for her even if she had the illusion it was being offered. Not many women would chose to kill their children and if it was their child who was painted in terms of maternal love against someone who had likely led them to an unhappy life? Well - there really was only one decision.

Who knows, maybe granny wasn't a b$~~~ that sold her daughter to the flesh merchants but I doubt that's the case, he mused has he watched the young prostitute cry, all the while both her child and her mother struggled weakly but more desperately against his increasing applied strength. He didn't really care one way or the other.

The young woman pointed a finger to her mother.

Not enough - you need to say it. I need to hear 'Kill my Mother'... your son doesn't have much time left now.

That broke her. Much to Eldred's satisfaction but that was merely the first course.

Kill... kill... my... Mother.

The room fell silent for just a moment before the popping of bones and cracking of cartilage filled the room over her cries of sorrow.

The mother kicked wildly , almost seeming to dance before falling limp and still to the floor, the last of her breath hissing out passed a swollen and broken windpipe. The stink of voided bowels and bladder filled the room.

Now, here's the lesson - You're a whore and a whore screws for a living, and she rides hard, every night - 'cause she's gotta pay her debts - debt to the man who offers her coin to use her body and debt to the man who OWNS it.

He brought the barely conscious crying boy out from under his left arm and cradled him and brought out his dagger again.

Now get over here - and know this, if you try to do anything stupid or call out? I'll kill the boy as easily as I killed your mother.

He watched her comply with satisfaction. The main course was about to begin.

Reach into my pouch and pull out the vial. Open it - we're gonna keep your son alive. Believe it or not? That's my job - he's my living promise that you are going to pay your debts.

Always mix the truth with a lie, though she's so shocked right now I don't even think she believes a thing I say - she just wants to get rid of me

Now give him the medicine - slowly now, don't let him choke on it - he's got to drink it all. Stroke his throat - its bitter but it normally always is, he crooned. He needs to sleep now - we can put him on the bed. Here, you can take him. Tuck him in.

He passed over the child but continued to loom with his dagger ever present and waited while she did her best to comfort the boy.

You see? What you've just given him is a slow acting poison, he said with a grin after the child stopped sobbing and fell into a gentle sleep. He drank in every moment of horror that etched itself into her features.

He grabbed her roughly off the bed.

Its treatable but the antidote has to be taken in doses over a long period of time... and its gonna cost. You see you're employer has sent me to make sure that you understand that ALL debts to him must be paid. Your son? He's due to die a long painful death unless you do right by your boss. I COULD cut him up now, while you watch... would you like that, he said holding her tight.

He held her while she wept. Loving every minute of it.

Now I could leave now but you'd likely try to make the boy sick, try to get him to puke and waste that excellent poison YOU just fed him... we can't have that now. So, I think we need to find something else to do while he digests that. Don't cry honey - I'm going to do you a favour. I'm going to help you start buying that antidote - don't worry none about the boy. He's sleeping and your mother there on the floor? Well, she won't mind much - just remember to give your boss his share of the gold coin you're about to earn. It's time for desert.

Cross off 1gp for the sunrod and another for the service


Sidious spends his week investigating the city's varied practices of religion. All his life he has had to hide his worship and is intrigued to be in a place where the worship of deities other than Mitra is tolerated. How long would a church openly dedicated to his lord be allowed to stand here? In his investigation he tries to learn if there are other worshipers of Asmodeus here, but will do nothing to give himself away or to endanger the mission.

My armor encumbers me, making it difficult to ride. And the wood we will be entering will be difficult enough for us and likely impassable for any 4-legged creatures. Sidious postulates. Perhaps we could bring a donkey to carry our rations.


Male Dwarf Warlord 1 [ HP: 12/12 | AC: 17 T: 11 FF: 16 | CMD: 16 | F: +4 R: +1 W: +2 (+3 vs. poison, spells and spell-like abilities) ]

"Is making of sense," the dwarf replies to Sidious. "But am short of leg. Is making of travel slow. But can not be helped," he finishes.

Putting on his iron circlet, the Stonelord's wickedly spiked armor seems to turn into a simple adventurer's outfit in greens and browns, with a wide-brimmed hat, and a roughly-worn steel breastplate. His weapon is still wrapped around his waist, looking much like a heavy steel chain. "Am ready when you are of ready."


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

Eldred makes purchases and pays up front in anticipation of collection in a few weeks. The extra arrows he straps to the mule the party bought but makes a second quiver up that he also carries. 10 cold Iron and 10 Alchemical silver - easily blunted and inferior to what a good blanch could do but it will do in a pinch.

He insists on staying on foot.

Riding in a forest is a good way to break your neck or a horses leg. Its a mugs game.


I too am a bit slow Wodin. This armor is quite heavy and restrictive. Seeing the dwarf shift reminds Sidious and he too shift his appearance to that of a friar in robes, his spear looking like a staff.

Speed 20


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

I'm assuming here, that no one came disguised as a dreadful Asmodean follower! Really, who would want to do that?

As you approach the Horn, the trees seems to come to life, moaning and contorting themselves, their branches moving in your direction, but it does not gives a feeling it will attack immediately.

Perception DC 20:

All the trees seems to have moved, however only one of them seems to be animated, and that’s the one that came to speak with you, however, two more nearby trees uprooted themselves.

A huge tree, uproots itself and walks in your direction, it stops some feet’s from you 40ft and from it, you hear an old, ancient voice. “You have happened upon the Horn of Abaddon,” he lectures, “a cursed place once of great corruption. It is my sacred charge to see that evil never again takes root here,” he points in the contrary direction you were heading ”go back, there’s nothing for you in those ruins.”

It's a dificult terrain, you cant charge. However it does not cost more movement to walk.


Male Dwarf Warlord 1 [ HP: 12/12 | AC: 17 T: 11 FF: 16 | CMD: 16 | F: +4 R: +1 W: +2 (+3 vs. poison, spells and spell-like abilities) ]

Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17

Wodin's right hand moves to grip the chain of his dorn-dergar, but he doesn't act further. He simply holds his position, eyes darting around to the many trees that surround them, his mouth kept shut.


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11

Casts Gravity bow.


Ogre

"That's new for Grumblejack!" states the ogre "A tree that can talk!"


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

"What foul company is that you keep?" ask the tree when he notices Grumblejack.


Note that while walking in these woods Sidious has his new shield out but carries his spear like a staff in one hand.

Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (1) + 14 = 15

Unaware that other trees are animating and seeing Eldred begin to cast, Sidous decides that the encounter will likely not be settled with diplomacy but he tries to talk their way past anyway. Touching the holy symbol of Mitra that hangs from his neck and stepping forward a step so that he may be better seen Sidous lies.

Hold Noble tree guardian. I am on a pilgrimage to ensure the Horn is still secure. Having heard that the Bryr is a dangerous place I employed what guards that could be had. You do not have to like the ogre to appreciate that he is good in a fight. Now, will you escort us to the entrance or step out of our way?

Bluff: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26


Journal Formulae/Consumables Hp 45 AC 17, T 13, FF 14, F+3, Ref +8, Will +6. Speed 30ft, Perc +11, Init +3

Kn:Nature: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (11) + 10 = 21

Agrippa might know something about this new creature. Oh, him? Agrippa says motioning to Grumblejack He carries my Wardrobe, its heavy you know. We keep him around for such things.


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

The conman turned mob enforcer cum assassin readies his bow.

How does one kill a tree? he mutters to Agrippa.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

SM: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29
Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (9) + 14 = 23

"Lies!" declare the ancient voice, it's eyes fixed on Eldred.

Villains: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (11) + 3 = 14

Treant: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19

The Big Bad 'Three'

Round 1-

Ordered Initiative-

Treant: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19

Villains: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (11) + 3 = 14

Active Effects-

Map-

Link

Notes-

-

Action-

The treant look at you all and gives you a last warning "This place is not for you, leave now." it states

Agrippa:
You are sure it's a treant, big, strong, likes to trample, to throw things, and as almost every plant, dont like fire.

You are up, intentions?


Male Devilbound Human |Inquisitor 9| HP 90 | AC 30(T14/FF25) |CMB +14; CMD 27 | Saves Fort +11, Ref +7 Will +11 | Initiative +9, Perception +15, Sense motive +18, Intimidate+24 LOOT

perception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (1) + 12 = 13
Know: Nature+monster lore: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28

Johan is just as impressed by the talking tree as Grumblejack is, failing to notice anything else around him. He makes no move to provoke the thing, letting Sidious's bluff play out, and trying to remember anything from his youthful years in the monastery libraries about such creatures.

<edit>Okay, simul-posting with the gm

Johan curses quietly as yet another attempt to end a stand off with words alone ends in failure. He summons forth the power of Asmodeus and a shimmering duplicate of his own mace appears in front of the tree

Swift action: Activate justice judgement (+2 to hit)
Std action: Cast spiritual weapon
attack: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18; dmg: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9
Move action: advance 20'


AC 24 FF 19 Touch 18 HP 90/[90] CMB +12 CMD 28 Fort +8, Ref + 13 Will +7 Init + 6 Percept +16* (+18 vs traps) Sense Mot* + 10 Favoured Enemy: Human + 4 / Good Outsiders + 2 Male Human AKA "Talks-to-Toads" Urban Ranger 6 (Favoured Class) / rogue sniper 3

Eldred puts an arrow into the tree to the south and moves back to Grumblejack.

Arrow 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30 and 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (6, 5) + 5 = 16

You can't argue with a tree.

Edit: I didnt spot the other trees with my shit roll so shooting the talking one instead


Journal Formulae/Consumables Hp 45 AC 17, T 13, FF 14, F+3, Ref +8, Will +6. Speed 30ft, Perc +11, Init +3

Agrippa says I would guess that fire and an axe might serve. and then he casts Grease at the middle tree, hoping to delay it a bit. He rummages around in his scroll case for a scroll of disappearance, he has a bad feeling. DC18 Reflex or fall prone. Its in pink on the map, Standard Action: Cast a Spell Move Action: look for a scroll of invisibility.


Male Dwarf Warlord 1 [ HP: 12/12 | AC: 17 T: 11 FF: 16 | CMD: 16 | F: +4 R: +1 W: +2 (+3 vs. poison, spells and spell-like abilities) ]

Wodin growls, pulling his weapon out as he moves towards the tree. Once he reaches a spot he considers appropriate, he roots himself to the ground, sitting low in a defensive stance, whirling his dorn-dergar around to ward off attackers.

Wodin draws his weapon while moving towards the tree (move and standard action). He then enters Defensive Stance (free action).

Current Status:
HP: 81/81 | AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 22 | F: +11 R: +4 W +10 (+2 vs. poison, spells & spell-likes) | Init +3 Perc: +11 | SS: 6/6 | DS: 11/11 | Effects: Defensive Stance


Journal Formulae/Consumables Hp 45 AC 17, T 13, FF 14, F+3, Ref +8, Will +6. Speed 30ft, Perc +11, Init +3

I thought the dwarf of all of us would have an axe. Dwarf, did you not hear me! An Axe I said....


I get a 26 bluff and the tree knows I am lying. Sigh. I feel robbed. lol.

Sidious, sensing a fight, casts Bless and moves out of the ogre's way, pulling his sickle as he does so. It is not an axe but it is as close to an axe as he know how to use. Abraxas, already invisible flies from his shoulder into the air to better survey the surrounds.

Perception Abraxas: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (17) + 10 = 27 Ware the other trees. Two more are animated and will fight you. it calls to the group.

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