DM Barcas - Iron Gods: Unity's Promise (Inactive)

Game Master Isaac Duplechain

"Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive." -C. S. Lewis


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Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

Sadly, my work has blocked access to the map. I'll try to post later.


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

Knowledge (Local) to identify something about the attackers: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12

His long coat flapping behind him in the breeze, Artemios whips out his pistol and fires a single shot at the nearest attacker.

Move to P6

Spend 1 Grit to activate the Up Close and Deadly deed for an additional 1d6 damage.

Revolver: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14 <-v. Touch AC
Roll again (Black Powder Bravado): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21

Damage: 1d8 + 1d6 ⇒ (5) + (2) = 7


Round 1, Initiative 12

Archelaos ex-Nikephoros: hp 12/12; AC 15/12T/13FF; +2F/+4R/+3W
SA: inspire courage (+1 to hit/damage)
MA: 30' to O9

Archelaos isn't quite sure what to do - so he does what he does best: act. He acts bravely and sure of himself, even though he doesn't quite feel that way. "Friends, countrymen, lend me your ears! Cease this foolhardy act or suffer the consequences!" He runs alongside Simeon, though the bush can't offer him any cover.

Welcoming Party | Round 2, Initiative 12

Town Watcher (Q6): 5/19 hp; AC 15/13T/12FF; +4R/+6R/+0W
MA: 15' to Q6, drop bow, draw sword
SA: Attack - longsword vs. Artemios (AC 16) 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24
> Damage 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8 - Artemios takes 8 damage

The guard is close enough to see now - and it's a strange sight. The man seems to be shrugging off two gunshots. It's clear that both hit, as blood (an almost too-vivid red) gushes out of the wounds - but he doesn't slow down. He drops the bow as he darts forward, drawing his sword smoothly. "Hellion will rise, and Unity will fall!" He slices with a single hand, cutting downward across Artemios's chest. The pain is unbelievable, but not enough to take Artemios out of the fight.

Town Watcher (Z3): 19/19 hp; AC 15/13T/12FF; +4R/+6R/+0W; shaken
SA: Attack - Longbow vs. Soractus (AC 17) 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10

Still quaking with dread, the watcher draws another arrow and aims his bow at Soractus. As the dusky-skinned Hermean darts out of his position of cover, the guard launches the missile. It whistles as it nears him, but Soractus drops into a roll at the last moment. It flies right past where his head would have been. Soractus finishes his roll without letting it disrupt his speed.

Town Watcher (T6): 2/19 hp; AC 15/13T/12FF; +4R/+6R/+0W
MA: 15' to T6
SA: Attack - Longbow vs. Archelaos (AC 15) 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13

The third of the guardsmen runs up closer - even though his chest has two gaping gunshot wounds from Soractus and Valarius. He takes aim at Archelaos, presently giving a monologue from one of his plays. "Stop!" He stumbles a bit as he takes aim, apparently not completely immune from the effects of the pain, and shoots too early. The arrow misses as it goes too high.

Round 2, Initiative 12

Archelaos ex-Nikephoros: hp 12/12; AC 15/12T/13FF; +2F/+4R/+3W
FA: Continue Performance (6 rounds remain)
MA: Draw firearm
SA: Attack - Revolver vs. Guard/T6 (AC 13T) 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

"I could no more stop fighting for Promise than I could stop breathing," Archelaos intones in the most dramatic way possible. "My compatriots are of the same heart, the same mind!" He draws the firearm - unfamiliar as it is - and fires at the guard. It misses badly, even at less than 10 meters, showing that Archelaos's talents lay mostly in the arts.

INTIATIVE
23 Valarius
22 Soractus
12 Artemios
12 Watchers
12 Archelaos
10 Simeon
7 Dryth

Map

Everyone is up! I factored Archelaos's inspire courage into the hit point totals. Don't forget to use the combat header!


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

Badly injured, Artemios backpedals, firing again.

Back up 30'

"One of you gets to surrender and live," he shouts. "Who'll it be?"


male Human Magus 2 (bladehound, hexcrafter) || HP 19/19, AC 17/13/14 || Ft +5, Rf +3, Wl +5 || Init +3 || Perception +8

Round 3, Initiative 23
hp 10/10; AC 17/13T/14FF; +4F/+3R/+4W

SA: Rifle (ranged touch) vs Watcher @ T6 (AC 15) 1d20 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 3 + 1 = 11
> Concealment (1-20 miss): 1d100 ⇒ 49
>> Damage: 1d10 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5
MA: Move 30' to H8

Damn. Valarius utters as his companions close in around the traitors. Why are they breaking rank and collapsing in on them? Hold a line, stay unified. Curse taking this flank, I am completely out of position for what I do best. Still, I will put this to work... Valarius lifts and draws back the bolt, ejecting the spent cartridge then slamming another one forward. Out of position for a clean shot, he hurries closer before drawing a line at the unengaged traitor and fires his second shot. Though a powerful rifle in itself, Valarius' hasty aiming leaves much to be desired as the bullet streaks out and over the shoulder of his intented target. I will be in blade range shortly he muses as he prepares to engage.


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

Round 2, Initiative 7
hp 8/8; AC 12/12T/10FF; +2F/+2R/+3W

If either of the southern Watchers is still alive when it's Dryth's turn:
MA: Move to R9
SA: Cast Daze on a Watcher (Q6 if he's still alive). (Will save DC 16)
Will Save: 1d20 ⇒ 17

If only the northern Watcher is alive when it's Dryth's turn:
MA: Double Move to Z10

Dryth ducks out from behind the tree quickly and moves towards the watchers. He casts a spell on one of the men, but the man just shrugs off Dryth's magic.


Male Half-Elf Investigator (Steel Hound/Infiltrator) 1 | HP 10/10,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +7 - F: +2/ R: +6 / W: +3 - CMB: +1 - CMD: 15 Speed: 30, Init. +6

Round 3, Initiative 22
HP 10/10; AC 17/T: 14/FF:13; F: +2/ R: +6 / W: +3

SA: Fire on Watcher at T6
Attack Roll: 1d20 + 4 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 4 + 1 + 1 = 15 vs. Touch AC 13; Hit
Damage: 1d8 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 1 + 1 = 3 vs Watcher at T6, -1 HP remaining.

MA: Move 30' to Z10

"You have been warned. You have ignored that warning, and raised weapons against Citizens of Hermea. You have *harmed* them through willful and deliberate action, premeditated and with malice aforethought. Furthermore, these Citizens were acting in accordance with orders sanctioned by The Council and the will of Mengkare. In the absence of a Magistrate, I pronounce you Guilty of Assault, Attempted Murder, and Treason, and Sentence You To Death."

With this, Soractus fires on the wounded bowman and watches as he collapses with a satisfying *crack* from his revolver. Always knew I was a better shot than those damned Lucarans; shame I never got the chance to demonstrate it in more peaceful circumstances.

Suppressing the urge to gloat, he lets his actions speak for themselves, and surveys the situation; seeing his compatriots closing on the other wounded archer, he moves into a defensive position and prepares to take aim at the frightened man at the rear.

"As of this moment, you have raised arms against us, but haven't harmed anybody. This is your last chance, and I will not extend this offer again. Drop your weapon, place your hands behind your head, and fall to your knees, and you might yet get the chance to throw yourself upon the mercy of a Magistrate. As for myself, I'm afraid my supply has run out."

He levels his Revolver and prepares to fire... he does not expect compliance.


Male Human Alchemist (Chirurgeon) 2 AC 15 [T 15 FF 10] | CMB +2 | CMD 17 | HP 17/17 | Fort +4 | Ref +8 | Will +1 | Init +5 | Percep +6

Round 2, Initiative 10
hp 10/10; AC 15/15T/10FF; +3F/+7R/+1W

MA: Move to cover Artemios
SA: Shoot at the archer at Q6

Simeon watches in horror as the men fire yet more arrows at them and then attack in melee. His doctor's instincts take over and he moves to put himself between the wounded Artemios and any opponents. Raising his pistol again, does his best to remember his combat training. Breathing out, he steadies his aim and fires.

He hits, but he can see the bullet has barely even grazed his target. Gritting his teeth, he re-cocks the gun and prepares to fire again, if necessary.

Pistol: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16
Damage: 1d8 ⇒ 1


Presumably Artemios used Withdraw, as the watcher had a melee weapon out.

Welcoming Party | Round 2, Initiative 12

Town Watcher (Q6): 4/19 hp; AC 15/13T/12FF; +4R/+6R/+0W
MA: 10' to P8
SA: Attack - Longsword vs. Archelaos (AC 15) 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27
> Confirm 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23
>> Damage 2d8 + 10 ⇒ (3, 8) + 10 = 21 - Archelaos takes 21 damage

As one of their number falls, the next steps up to avenge him. He barely blinks as Simeon grazes him, pressing an advantage on the lightly-armored Archelaos. As the actor tries to inspire the others, he leaves himself open to attack. The watcher steps forward and lunges at him, shoving his blade deep into the man's chest. Archelaos seems to hesitate for a moment, looking down at the spreading blood from his chest, then collapses to the ground.

Town Watcher (Z3): 19/19 hp; AC 15/13T/12FF; +4R/+6R/+0W; shaken
SA: Attack - Longbow vs. Soractus (AC 21) 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23
> Damage 1d8 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4 - Soractus takes 4 damage

Even in his fear, the remaining watcher keeps firing at Soractus. Finally, one of the arrows pierces his calf even with the Alkaean Citizen behind cover. Soractus notes that the guard seemed to hit what he was aiming for rather than hit him with a lucky shot - seemingly as unbothered in the dark at close range as he is.

Round 3, Initiative 12

Archelaos ex-Nikephoros: hp -10 hp; AC 15/12T/13FF; +2F/+4R/+3W; dying (14 Con)
Stabilize (DC 10) 1d20 - 7 ⇒ (3) - 7 = -4
Lingering Performance - 2 rounds

Archelaos coughs and gasps as the lifeblood flows out of his body. The wound will almost certainly be fatal without immediate medical attention.

INTIATIVE
23 Valarius
22 Soractus
12 Artemios
12 Watchers
12 Archelaos
10 Simeon
7 Dryth

Map

Everyone is up again!


male Human Magus 2 (bladehound, hexcrafter) || HP 19/19, AC 17/13/14 || Ft +5, Rf +3, Wl +5 || Init +3 || Perception +8

Round 4, Initiative 23
hp 10/10; AC 17/13T/14FF; +4F/+3R/+4W

A: If Watcher at P8 is still alive at my action

FA: Charge Attack (power attack) vs Watcher @ P8 (AC 15) 1d20 + 4 + 2 - 1 ⇒ (19) + 4 + 2 - 1 = 24 crit threat
> Critical Confirmation 1d20 + 4 + 2 - 1 ⇒ (16) + 4 + 2 - 1 = 21 success
>> Damage: 2d8 + 18 ⇒ (7, 1) + 18 = 26

As Archelaos collapses to the ground before Valarius, the spellblade drops his rifle and charges forward. The wrath swelling within him at this heretic's betrayal of all that Hermea stands about to burst, Valarius draws his sword and swings it viciously at the traitor with both hands, cleaving him in twain.

-------------------------------------------
B: If Watcher at P8 is dead at my action

MA: move 30' to O8
SA: Rifle (ranged touch) vs Watcher @ Z3 (d20 = 19+3 = 22) hit
> Concealment 1d100 ⇒ 65
>> Damage 1d10 ⇒ 4

As the Watcher that slew Archelaos crumples before him, Valarius draws the bolt back on his rifle then drives forward another round. Damn, already lost a man. I have little I can do for him, though others might. I must protect them, for Hermea. For Promise. Breathing smoothly, he sights the last Watcher, takes his aim, and pulls the trigger. The bullet leaps forward, striking the Watcher in the thigh, though leaving him standing. These forsaken bastards can take a beating...


No need for contingent actions. We take them in the order in which they are posted. So the watcher at P8 is dead.


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

Round 3, Initiative 7
hp 8/8; AC 12/12T/10FF; +2F/+2R/+3W


MA: Move to U4
SA: Cast Daze on Watcher (Will save DC 16)
Will Save: 1d20 ⇒ 4

Dryth moves towards the last Watcher and he casts a spell again. This time it catches the eye of the guard and he is transfixed for a moment. "How can you even try to hurt us?!"


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

"Damn," said Artemios on seeing Archelaos go down. "Simeon!" he calls. "Get to Archelaos."

Abandoning his rearward position, the gunslinger hustles forward, coat flapping in the night air as he fires his pistol.

Move to Q6 and fire at the nearest thug (just to the east).

Spend last grit point for Up Close and Personal

Ranged revolver plus Up Close and Personal: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 241d8 + 1d6 ⇒ (8) + (6) = 14


Male Human Alchemist (Chirurgeon) 2 AC 15 [T 15 FF 10] | CMB +2 | CMD 17 | HP 17/17 | Fort +4 | Ref +8 | Will +1 | Init +5 | Percep +6

"On it!"

Simeon sprints towards his fallen companion, retrieving his medical kit and a Potion of CLW. He almost forces the latter down Archelaos' throat.

Potion CLW: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 1 = 6

While the potion acts, he busies himself with the more mundane matter of trying to staunch the bleeding and generally stabilise the patient. He does this almost on autopilot while his mind tries to process what has happened. Violence? Actual violence! Unthinkable...

Heal: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25 Oh, yes. That will do nicely.


Male Half-Elf Investigator (Steel Hound/Infiltrator) 1 | HP 10/10,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +7 - F: +2/ R: +6 / W: +3 - CMB: +1 - CMD: 15 Speed: 30, Init. +6

Round 4, Initiative 22
HP 10/10; AC 17/T: 14/FF:13; F: +2/ R: +6 / W: +3

MA: Holster Revolver, draw Sap[/b]
[ooc]MA: Move 30' to Z4

Seeing that the other Archer has fallen and that the last one standing appears to be momentarily mesmerized by the sorcerer's spell, Soractus holsters his firearm, and moves in to subdue the last enemy standing.

"You might think you are lucky to be taken alive. You would be *highly* mistaken to continue to hold that notion. Would you prefer to do this easily? Or would you rather be... difficult?"

He's denied his next action, should we just start Round 5 whenever?


Round 4, Initiative 12

Town Watcher (Z3): 5/19 hp; AC 15/13T/12FF; +4R/+6R/+0W

The sole remaining attacker is bleeding heavily from Artemios's gunshot to his chest and dazed by Dryth's spell. His hands tremble as he tries to bring the bow up for another shot of his arrows, but he cannot. The squad has the opportunity to finish off this ambush before he comes to.

Archelaos ex-Nikephoros: hp -4 hp; AC 15/12T/13FF; +2F/+4R/+3W; stable

As Simeon injects the healing potion into his mouth, Archelaos's deadly wound clots and closes. A few seconds more and he would have been dead, but he owes his life to Simeon. The doctor starts treating the wound, but he should survive.

INTIATIVE
23 Valarius
22 Soractus
12 Artemios
12 Watchers
12 Archelaos
10 Simeon
7 Dryth


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

"Take him alive!" said Artemios.

The gunslinger stepped on the unconscious man's wrist, pinning it to the turf and leveled his peacemaker at the the captive's chest.

"Somebody search this traitor," he said. "And someone else get some rope. He has some questions to answer. Soractus, I'll let you and the Doc figure out what happens to him afterwards."


Male Human Alchemist (Chirurgeon) 2 AC 15 [T 15 FF 10] | CMB +2 | CMD 17 | HP 17/17 | Fort +4 | Ref +8 | Will +1 | Init +5 | Percep +6

Simeon does his best to stabilise the other wounded fallen - they are after all fellow Hermeans, for all that they tried to kill him. In his view, a doctor tends the wounded.

His only concession to their status as hostiles is that he doesn't use any expendable resources on trying to stabilise them.

He shakes his head at Artemios' suggestion of rope. "Not yet, it would just get in my way - I'm still working!"


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

Round 4, Initiative 7
hp 8/8; AC 12/12T/10FF; +2F/+2R/+3W

MA: (Should be at U4)
SA: Cast Acid Splash on Watcher

Acid flies from Dryth's hand, striking the Watcher square in the chest. "Surrender now!"

Ranged Touch: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20
Damage: 1d3 ⇒ 3


Shot and burned, the guard seems ready to collapse - a point rendered moot when Soractus cracks him in the face with his sap. The final blow tips him over into unconsciousness, leading Soractus to quickly restrain him. Simeon, having stabilized the grievously injured Archelaos, moves on to the attackers. The triage is quick. The first two were badly wounded multiple times, staying up through some unknown means. The amount of physical trauma required to bring them down was ultimately fatal for both by the time Simeon arrives to evaluate them. The third - taken prisoner already - is similarly badly wounded, but not beyond saving. Simeon works hard to quickly bring him to a point where his survival is less in doubt, while the others quickly confer as to their next moves.

They have a choice to make. The sound of gunshots and melee likely didn't help their cause if there are additional guards around the farmstead, They can wait in the open, return to the autocarriage, or try to get to their destination quickly. No matter which course they decide, they have two unconscious men - one an ally, one a prisoner - to carry along with them.

As they get a closer look at the three men, they notice some very unusual signs. All three bear markings - not tattoos, as it seemed at first - on their skin. They looks like intricate circuitry in their design, each one unique to the person. Simeon notes that the blood separates into its composite parts far too quickly, and even has a strangely diluted color. Whatever the cause of the unusual markings and blood is, it isn't immediately apparent.


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

"Marvellous," said Artemios. "A cult. I say we hustle and get in there before any resistance has a chance to organize. Other opinions?"


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

Knowledge, Arcana: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25

Dryth examines the lines on the bodies. "Curious." He tries to make sense of the intricate patterns. "What were they shouting? Something about 'Hellion'? I can't believe farmsteaders would attack us like that!"

he looks up noticing the darkness around them. He nods to Artemois. "If there are more like this, we should know. Maybe they have attacked real farmsteaders. Let's go see what's happening in town."


Dryth examines the bodies as quickly as he can, while the others keep an eye out for hostile actions. His face shows some surprise when he checks them out. As his hands come close to the off-color blood, he can feel something inside the bloodstream and on the men's skin. They have almost a current to them, sort of the same feelings that he gets when he examines a technological marvel. He and Simeon look over the two bodies, trying to figure out if they are humans or something else. "Synthetic," he mutters to himself. "Some sort of hybrid? Augmented?" Perhaps with the benefit of a laboratory, they will be able to tell something more through dissection - but the bodies definitely have a mechanical aspect to them.


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

Where is everyone?

Dryth looks at Simeon in confusion. "Have you ever seen something like this before? I honestly don't know if this is your area or mine. Perhaps if we get the bodies to a medical space, we can perform an autopsy." The engineer taps his lips as he contemplates the synthetic blood.


male Human Magus 2 (bladehound, hexcrafter) || HP 19/19, AC 17/13/14 || Ft +5, Rf +3, Wl +5 || Init +3 || Perception +8

Cleaning his blade then recovering his rifle, Valarius surveys the scene. Approaching Dryth and Simeon, he loads replenishes the missing rounds in his bolt-action rifle. "Three foes defeated, one of our own critically wounded - difficult odds to play. And Archeleos had struck me as one of the more competent in combat. Guess his confidence was more an act. Regardless, these men suffered wounds that should have killed them easily, but they fought on. Do we take our wounded and the prisoner back to the carriage, or with us? Shall I dispose of the bodies as best the environment allows?"

Messes he was used to. But the chaos of this attack... here... on Hermea... did not sit easily with him.


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

Artemios considered, then shook his head. "No, we came here to do a job and we're going to do it. Now, before we lose the element of surprise."

"Doc," he continued, speaking now to Simeon. "Can Archelaos move on his own? If not, you and he have to get back to the carriage. And how is the prisoner? Will he live?"

"Dryth, get a sample of their blood and whatever else you think we'll need, but we can't take those bodies with us. We're moving out in just a minute."


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

Dryth looks up at Artemois and nods. "Of course. Anyway, if our friend there has the same blood, then we should be able to study it in earnest." He stands back up. "If these beings have infiltrated the farmstead, they could obviously be the reason our research team hasn't reported in."

Ready


Male Human Alchemist (Chirurgeon) 2 AC 15 [T 15 FF 10] | CMB +2 | CMD 17 | HP 17/17 | Fort +4 | Ref +8 | Will +1 | Init +5 | Percep +6

"Fascinating..." Simeon is absorbed in his new study and barely registers Artemios' question. Hm? Oh. Archelaos is stable and will recover in time, but I advise keeping him out of further combat. Prisoner is alive and out of danger - but further study is needed. Dryth, do you concur?"

Simeon does his best to rig up some of the diagnostics kit to the whisperline; his intention is to transmit some of the data back to Promise, both to keep them informed of progress and because the equipment back home might provide better answers.

In reply to Artemios' suggestion, he frowns slightly. "Group leader, my training advises against splitting the group. Given that surprise is lost, we should use the autocarriage and stay together."


Valarius picks up Archelaos over his shoulders once Simeon gives him the all-clear, while Soractus picks up the tied and unconscious prisoner. With no other options, they have to leave the other two laying where they were killed. Artemios scoops up their weapons, ensuring that they won't be used against them again. The group quickly picks up and heads back where they came from, knowing that the gunshots make a stealthy entrance practically impossible - and the ambush makes them believe that there are probably more guards waiting for interlopers. It takes them a fair amount of time to efficiently but carefully make it back to their autocarriage. As the kilometers pass, they each give considerable thought to the unusual attack, but do not speak.

Once back at the autocarriage, Dryth confirms that it is untampered with. They lay Archelaos in the back seat to minimize his injuries, but make little effort to place the prisoner in a position of comfort. The rest of them climb into the now-crowded seats, while Dryth turns the vehicle on. It activates with a near-silent whir. Dryth hits a few buttons on the display, pulling up the map of the farmstead itself. He pushes his fingers against the screen to zoom in, looking at the layout. There is a path that he can map that will bring them directly to the door of the research facility - but at risk, as it has a few tactical difficulties if the farmstead is under control of zealots. They would have to risk a few sharp turns and narrow choke points, where they could be ambushed again. He points it out to the rest, looking for a consensus of what to do - and what to do about their prisoner. Looking at him in the light, it is clear that he is of Hermean stock - tall and strong, probably with at least one Lucarus or Alkaeus parent - except for the bizarre markings.

Simeon fiddles with his whisperline, trying to increase its range. He pulls out a cord to connect the autocarriage's interface and stronger power source to his device, but he only gets a strange static. It seems to blocking any ability to transmit, as it is overriding the bandwidths from several points. This is likely the cause of the cease of communication from Torch.

Knowledge: Engineering (Tech) DC 20:
The bandwidth is blocked because it is occupied with a signal. With some ingenuity, it could be detected on the autocarriage's display.


Male Human Alchemist (Chirurgeon) 2 AC 15 [T 15 FF 10] | CMB +2 | CMD 17 | HP 17/17 | Fort +4 | Ref +8 | Will +1 | Init +5 | Percep +6

Knowledge engineering (tech): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26

Simeon blinks as he is unable, despite his endeavours, to find a clear line. "Our communication is blocked - hey, wait! It's occupied with a signal. Must be big. It's sucking up all the available bandwidth. I can probably pick it up on the autocarriage display - give me a couple of minutes..."

Fascinated with yet another technical problem, Simeon hums quietly to himself as he works; a tune from his childhood days.


Simeon works on uncovering the transmission that blocks the bandwidths, working in tandem with Dryth to allow the autocarriage display to receive and show it. It takes some effort to rig the display in the proper manner, which is indeed beyond its intended use. The whisperlines would be able to pick it up under certain conditions, but converting the signal into a proper display would be a difficult task. They have to essentially cannibalize Archelaos's whisperline, taking its components to splice the display together. Once that is complete, some trial-and-error allows them to tune it. The message begins as garbled static, only to tune in every so often with a word here or there in a woman's voice. They begin to zero in on the solution, figuring that it is actually two separate transmissions; one is the voice they hear occasionally, and the other is something else entirely that emits an eerie hum.

One final tweak brings the display into focus. A woman's face appears through the flickering static, though she still can't be heard except for the occasional word. The most unusual feature of her unusual face is her eyes: solid purple, without whites. She has purple hair as well, shaved on the left side of her head so that the same type of unique markings show on the side of her face and head. She has violet lips, though they seem that way naturally rather than through cosmetics. Some sort of altar sits in the background behind her, in an environ that looks as modern of technology as anywhere in Promise. Simeon carefully makes a final splice of wires, which brings the audio into the autocarriage. "-- Awoken, one by one, to the glory of Hellion. Promise is a lie. Unity is false. They are using you. You are more. Hellion is more. Awaken those who you can. Kill those who cling to Unity. I am Meyanda, Hellion's prophet, and I invite you to join me." The message loops and repeats itself, crackling with static as the transmission moves up and down the bandwidth. The whole message is oddly comforting.

Please make a DC 14 Will save to avoid being fascinated.


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

Will Save: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (19) + 3 = 22

"What the...? Artemios turns off the display.

"Yeah. We have a problem. Heretics with some sort of mind-control signal. We need to get into Torch immediately."


Male Human Alchemist (Chirurgeon) 2 AC 15 [T 15 FF 10] | CMB +2 | CMD 17 | HP 17/17 | Fort +4 | Ref +8 | Will +1 | Init +5 | Percep +6

Will save: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 1 = 3 Bah

"Hellion... Join her..." Simeon's face takes on a glazed expression - which abruptly disappears when Artemios does the sensible thing and switches off the display.

He blinks rapidly several times, and then shakes his head. "Hmm. Some form of mind control? Primitive, but not ineffective. But who or what is Hellion? Or Meyanda? I think we should report in to Promise if at all possible."

Fiddling with the now jury-rigged equipment, he does his best to find enough bandwidth somewhere in the spectrum to communicate a suitable message.


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

Will Save: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (11) + 3 = 14

The signal on the display catches Dryth's attention for a moment until he breaks out of the trance just as Artemios clicks the screen off. "You think everyone in the farmstead has been taken over by that mental control? Those men seemed quite determined in their assertions."

"I agree, we should report this in." Dryth attempts to help Simeon tune the communications away from the signal's interference. "Whatever this is, it's the reason why the research team hasn't checked in. But if this message is any indication, they may not be safe."


Male Half-Elf Investigator (Steel Hound/Infiltrator) 1 | HP 10/10,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +7 - F: +2/ R: +6 / W: +3 - CMB: +1 - CMD: 15 Speed: 30, Init. +6

Will Save: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (13) + 3 = 16

Soractus blinks for a second on hearing the transmission, before he recognizes it's hypnotic properties. As his training kicks in, he slaps himself in the face lightly and regains his composure.

"I'd suggest investigating further; reporting now will be pretty bare bones, and not terribly helpful. We were chosen for this assignment under the apprehension that we ought to be able to handle the difficulties it was likely to present. We weren't informed of the reality on the ground, so as not to prejudice our actions, but I suspect that what we've unearthed so far is going to be no surprise to the Council. Maybe our sleepy friend over here..." at this, Soractus drives an elbow into the ribcage of the now bound and unconscious prisoner. That shouldn't hurt him, but it ought to leave a bruise he'll feel when he comes to... "has some idea what's going on."


Simeon and Dryth continue in their attempt to overcome the bandwidth blockage, but the signal is too strong. Whatever the source of the mysterious message is, it is blocking their ability to transmit back to Promise. They will have to end the signal if they want to send word of their discovery.

Simeon:
There must be some kind of way out of here.

Where to now? Awaken and interrogate the prisoner, or drive to the destination?


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

Dryth sighs. "Maybe Soractus is right. We are the rescue force, yes? We should try to learn as much as possible, including if they have hold over the farmstead, what may have befallen the research team, if any are still alive, and the nature of this 'Hellion' and Meyanda, whoever she is. If they are espousing the downfall of Unity, we must consider them a dangerous force."

The engineer motions to the prisoner. "Wake him up. Let's see what he knows."

Dryth will cast Charm Person on the man as soon as he wakes. Will DC 17

GM:

If he's a construct subtype, that rises to DC 18.


male Human Magus 2 (bladehound, hexcrafter) || HP 19/19, AC 17/13/14 || Ft +5, Rf +3, Wl +5 || Init +3 || Perception +8

will (DC 14): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11

The rhythmic chanting cutting in and out cut into Valarius' mind. His eyes went wide and he started to sway slightly, with the pulse of the voice. Lost in the melody, he was not aware of the horror that was conveyed with-

The message cut short as Artemios turned off the display, freeing Valarius from the hypnotic sound. Shaking his head, he checked around at his companions, noting who amongst them was also affected similarly. Damned, mindbenders, I'll need to be more vigilant, both in guarding myself, and the others. I will not let any of us fall to this cult's corrupting curse.

Looking down at the prisoner, he looks over the traitor's wounded form. "Simeon, do you have the materials necessary to reawaken him in the moment so we need not tarry any longer? Let us get what we can from him then move on to the research facility. The more time passes, the more vulnerable we become."


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

Tin foil hats for everyone! Make it so!


Will save (DC 18) 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6
> Meyanda Charisma 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (2) + 0 = 2
> Dryth Charisma 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18

Simeon uses a tincture to awaken their prisoner. It takes a few moments to kick in, but the man's eyes start to flutter open. As soon as he focuses on his captors, Dryth casts a spell upon his mind. Dryth can feel a lingering resistance from the mind-controlling signal, but he overwhelms it with his own will. The unusual markings surge with a glowing light blue hue before they fade back to normal. The prisoner's head lolls back and forward before he slumps down and coughs. "What's going on," he asks weakly as he looks back up at them. "Where am I?" It seems that Dryth has gained control over his mind.

Valarius:
There's too much confusion, I can't get no relief.


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

"Easy, relax. You have been hurt and we're trying to care for you. What do you remember? Do you know your name?"

-Posted with Wayfinder


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176
DM Barcas wrote:
** spoiler omitted **

Are we going to become Cylons? I hope not, 'cause that killed that show. :-)


The prisoner coughs a few times, drawing ragged breaths. He seems to notice the pain from his injuries for the first time. "Yes, yes, I remember. My name is Tannaris. I'm a Resident of the farmstead, like the two others I was with. It all started a few months ago, when the purple flames appeared on the Black Hill. At first, it seemed like normal. But the longer things went on, everyone started hearing something, like a high-pitched whine now and then. It gets in your head, like a tune from childhood that you can't quite remember all the notes to." He hums a tune, drumming with his fingers - the very same tune that Simeon was humming a few minutes before while trying to work on the bandwidth problem. "It all seems so clear now, but it was slow and gradual. Like drifting to sleep and finding yourself in a dream. One by one, we slipped into it, hiding ourselves from those who hadn't 'awoken' yet. Three quarters of the farmstead, including all three of the Origines overseers, have been awakened. Two days ago, we revealed ourselves, took over the transmission tower, and increased the signal."

He looks up at his captors. "It's much stronger now. What happened to us over months will only take days. I don't know what these markings are. They just appeared on our skin when the signal was amplified." He continues to drum the beat of the tune on the fabric of the autocarriage seat. "I'm sorry that we attacked you. I was so certain that you were my enemy... Looks like I'm paying for that now," he says with amother ragged cough.


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

"It's ok. Rest. You're free of its influence now. You said about three-fourths of the farmstead has been 'awakened'. What about those not influenced? Are they resisting or locked up? Did any escape?"

"When you attacked us, you mentioned Hellion and the prophet Meyanda. Do you know who they are or what they wanted to do?"


Tannaris clears his throat as he tries to breathe. "The rest of them have been purged or captured. The overseers were able to assemble almost all of them in the hall before we revealed ourselves. There are still a few pockets of resistance in the farmstead - like at the transmission tower and the armory. Those who resisted..." He lets the violent conclusion float in the air for a few moments. "I don't know if any of them have escaped. We were tasked with preventing anyone from getting in or out of the farmstead. I think the remaining captives are being held at the assembly hall."

He groans in pain as he tries to sit up more. "Meyanda spoke to us when it was done. She explained that we were selected by Hellion - a god, she said - to do his bidding. She is a zealot, I can tell you that. She truly believes in what she is saying - but so did those of us who thought we'd been awakened." He reaches out weakly to grab Simeon's arm. "You cast a spell on me, didn't you? Don't let me go back. I don't know if it can be undone permanently. Maybe if you shut down the signal, but maybe it's been too long for me. Kill me if you can't reverse it permanently. I don't want to live as a slave."


Male Human Gunslinger (Pistolero) 2 - HP 22/22,- AC 17/T: 14/FF:13 - Perception +8 - F: +6/ R: +8 / W: +3 - CMB: +3 - CMD: 18 Speed: 30, Init. +5
Consumables:
Grit 2/3, Black Powder Bravado 0/1, bullets 176

Artemios nodded gravely. "I will," he said. "I wouldn't want to live in bondage, either. But tell us more about Hellion and Meyanda. Did she tell you anything about this 'god's' philosophy? Or where he came from... it's a he, right? And what about her? What race is she? How is she armed? Did she show any powers?"


Male Human Impossible Sorcerer 2 [HP: 14/14 | AC 12/12/10 | F+2 R+2 W+4 | Init +2 Perc +2 SM +1]

Dryth bites his lip as Artemios agrees to kill the man rather than let him fall back under the mind-control. He waits until the Tannaris answered Artemios' questions, then poses his own. "The transmission tower? Maybe we could get up there and cut off the signal entirely. Any resistance would help us. Tannaris, do you know if they captured a research team who was studying the flames?"


"I don't know," he says in response to the questions about Hellion. "We just took it for granted that he was our god. She seemed quite persuasive. She was human, I think, but there was something unnatural about her. She kept talking about the purity of machinery, though. She had a pistol of some type, but she had everyone in her thrall by the time I saw her. She never had to use it."

He groans again, rubbing his face hard with his hands. "The transmission tower is on the top of the Black Hill in the center of the city, but the control room is embedded in the hill itself. There's an access hatch, but it's well-guarded and at the end of a long and winding road up the side of the hill. I heard them talking about drilling into some caves inside the hill. If you can find a way into the caves, you might be able to find a way into the control room. As far as a research team, I don't know. We saw a team of Citizens arrive a few months ago, but no one has seen them since."

You might recall that the research lab is classified and that the entrance is hidden. It is likely that they can access the caves from there as well.


Male Human Alchemist (Chirurgeon) 2 AC 15 [T 15 FF 10] | CMB +2 | CMD 17 | HP 17/17 | Fort +4 | Ref +8 | Will +1 | Init +5 | Percep +6

Simeon looks troubled: this man is his patient now, and he doesn't kill patients. On the other hand: "I don't even know what they did to you, and with the tools I've got..." He waves a hand, helplessly. "I'd need a lab, a research team, and time - and even then I've no guarantees. If we were in Promise, maybe I could do something."

He looks at Artemios. "I have some anaesthetics - I could knock him out for long enough to let us explore; if you're worried about him waking up, manacle him so even if he does wake he won't go anywhere."

He hopes this will be a suitable compromise.

What skill would I need to roll to see if I can work out/undo whatever's been done to him?


Knowledge: Engineering (Tech) DC 20:
The process was instigated by the transmissions, so anyone 'awoken' could possibly have it undone (depending on how long they were exposed to it) through a similar reconditioning process - but they would have to be removed from the ongoing transmission first. Those with less exposure might revert back to normal on their own once the signal is gone.

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