Era of the Apocalypse (Inactive)

Game Master Codanous

MAPS

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Gameplay


As you walk through St. Peter’s Square, refugees are sprawled about the courtyard, blankets, beds, whole families clutching their belongings as the rest of the world around them crumbles. Most are injured and priests and nuns frantically work to provide aid to those fleeing the city, the outside world.

Hell has come to Earth and the legions of Lucifer with it. Each of you found your way to the Holy See(Vatican) and have answered the call that Pope Pius II put out for anyone willing to help.

As you make your way through the crowds you notice a few others heading in the same direction. Making your way through to the Papal offices, you pass by the St. Peter Basilica.

Kn: History DC10:
This basilica has stood since here for over 1200 years, it's rumored that they were going to rebuild it even grander here soon but the construction plans have been halted for obvious reason.

Arriving in the entryway to the Papal offices, the opulent foyer has tapestrys, paintings and sculptures of past Saints adorning the room. All told 5 of you are gathered around, seemingly from vastly different backgrounds.

A younger nun is also in the room with you, clutching a rosary in prayer, as you approach she looks up from her reverie, ”Oh, you must be the ones answering His Most Holy’s divine request, I will let them know you’ve arrived,” with that she slips inside the offices.

while you guys wait, if you want to introduce yourselves to each other


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

A woman in simple tan robes and with penetrating black eyes and long straight black hair greets the nun.

"Yes. Our magical stronghold of Kaer Morhen has fallen. And I am one of the lucky few who escaped the destruction that the demonlord, Belial had wrought. It would please me if you would inform His Most Holy on our arrival. My name is Celeste."

Celeste concealed her innermost thoughts. She did not fully trust the Pope. But what choice did she have? After the fall of Kaer Morhen, this was the last bastion for humanity against the demons. Perhaps where arcane magic had failed...ther might of the Church would suceed. Or humanity would be lost to the fires of abyss...


Retired to SUMITHA

I'm assuming we are arriving in order of post, May we assume the nun stays until we all arrive?
Is Daer Morhen and magic public knowledge? I would assume it wasn't, but if it is lets just pretend Elek is ignorant.

Walking through the fancy carved and bronzed doors is a thick chested thin wasted bearded man just slightly taller than average. He shifts the weight of his pack, unconsciously checking the handles of his messer and crossbow.

Shifting his quarter staff to his left hand, He runs the fingers of his right hand through his thick black beard while his grey eyes shift from looking at the locations of the other exits in the room to the two women. 'A nun and a girl in a tan dress, great. I thought the pope would get more volunteers and certainly a different quality. Guess it doesn't matter, at least I'll die fighting the things that killed my family.'

Moving forward walking lightly in his knee high cuffed boots, he discreetly listens the girls introduction. 'Her accent sounds English or maybe French, I wonder what Kaer Morhen was, probably Scotland or Ireland. I'm sure the girl has some sort of skill. I mean a washer woman wouldn't volunteer, right? Course I'm a tinker and I'm here. Oh well.'

Elek approaches, coming to a formal pose; his arms stiffly at his side, clicking his boot heals together and giving a quick short bow, first toward the nun and then the young lady named Celeste. In his heavily accented, newly learned, Latin"Greeting Ladies, I am Elek Kardforgató I have knowledge vit zee sword, crossbow und some skill vit zee clocks und locks."


Male Turkish Gunslinger (Musket Master) 1
Defenses/Stats/Resources:
HP 11/11 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | Fort+3 Ref +6 Will+2 | Initiative +3 | Perception +6 | Sense Motive +2 | Grit 2/2

Knowledge (History): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 1 = 18

The small, lean Turkish soldier stares at the others with curious eyes, both his arms folded over his chest. He doesn't speak first - indeed, it seems he doesn't relish the idea - and only begins to do so after the others have broken the ice.

"You have 'knowledge' of the sword?" Badahir says derisively and with a snort. It takes him a moment to remember where he is, and he takes a deep breath before speaking again. "What I mean to say is... I have heard some say they 'know their way' around a sword, or they possess some skill - but that is a strange way of putting it. You are not a soldier, are you?"

Looking about at the others in the room, the Turk removes his hat and takes a (somewhat forced) bow. "I am Badahir, a member of the famous Janissary corps. I would be honored for the chance to battle the minions of Hell alongside others who do not fear death." His words might look good on paper, but the execution of his speech is flawed. He voices respect, but his tone betrays a tinge of disdain. The soldier clearly is making an effort to be polite, however.


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

Robes! Not Dress!
Celeste inclines her head at the newcomers. ’A wizard does not bow to her lessers and back in the old days, Kings would ask us for aid. If this is the best of what humanity has, then so be it.’

knowledge history: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25

”Yes, I don’t think there will be much time to make clocks.” She gives a derisive sniff. ”Anyway, it does not matter where we came from, what unites us is our purpose here. Everyone here has a bone to pick with demons, right? There is a saying, my enemy’s enemy is my friend.”


Retired to SUMITHA

I edited my intro to give a physical description.
edit: Celeste ninja'd my post so this is toward her, hey stop reading my thoughts I'm using the italicized words as inner thoughts
'Make clocks, hhhmmm smart and arrogant' Elek touches his sword, "I have other skills, including dealing vit many different types of locks. And yes, I am here to make var on zee demons, not make friends vit zee catholics. But I know not ver Kaer Morhen is not vat a little girl from zer can do to help us."

Adressing Radahir

'That is an accent I do not recognize, aaahhhh a Janissary, I've heard of them.'[I] Turning to see the lean soldier. [I]'and a matchlock to boot.' Elek turns, clicking his heals together, 'I am Elek Kardforgató.

Unable to keep the disdain from his voice. "Vee of Bohemia train all citizens villing vit veapons, and are permitted to join za militia. So yes I have knowledge of zee sword, and vas trained and ready for var like my father before. Zough it was voluntary on mine and my families part."

He nods toward the gunne, "I heard zat zee turks used canon to take Constantinople. I have also heard of zee Janissary. Soldier-slaves, taken from Christian families. Tell me do you still serve zee true god, or did you betray your family beliefs and turn to zee "prophet"?

'That may have been too much' Elek shakes his head. "Not zat it matters to me. I vill join anyvone who vill make var on zee devils. My father fought against zee Catholics In zee Hussite vars, and if I am villing to side vit zem, zen I vill certainly fight side by side vit a Muslim." Shrugging his shoulders he extends a hand to the gunman.


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

”I am one of the few survivors of the Order of Merlin after Belial razed our magical stronghold. If you do NOT understand what that means, I’ll put it simply. I am a Practioner of the Arcane Arts. Times long past, Kings would seek our counsel.” She sighs, ”So far have we fallen into obscurity that most people do not even know we exist.”

”And we know a lot. Like for one, if you were going to go after demons, get cold iron weaponry. You can have my dagger,” She hands her cold iron dagger to Elek. ”It’s better off in your ignorant hands, then it is in mine.”


Retired to SUMITHA

'Order of Merlin?' Elek takes a step back from the girl, "Order of Merlin? Arcane Arts? Is zat zee same as vitchcraft?" He continues bringing his right hand up and pointing toward Badihir and then the nun, but not reaching for the knife. "I care not who you learned from. As I said, I am here to kill zee devils. If it means siding vit a follower of Islam, or a follower of zee pope zan I vill. I am villing to side vit a follower of zis Merlin. Even if she vas a vitch." He smiles a cruel smile, "Maybe you have a fire zey are not immune to."


Male Turkish Gunslinger (Musket Master) 1
Defenses/Stats/Resources:
HP 11/11 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | Fort+3 Ref +6 Will+2 | Initiative +3 | Perception +6 | Sense Motive +2 | Grit 2/2

"It is an honor to be selected to be a Janissary," Badahir says in a cold tone, his posture more aggressive since Elek's comments. "I was given a measure of education - something, no doubt, you have no word for - and my family compensated for my service. And in service to my Sultan I have seen more of the world than you, of that I have no doubt, and I am grateful for having been shown the words of the Prophet. And yet," he adds with a glare, "I will not mock you for your faith, for the good woman is right: we share a common enemy. Now, hold your tongue before you embarrass yourself further."

The Turkish warrior frowns deeply, then turns toward Celeste. "Perhaps," he begins slowly, "you can share with us more knowledge you have of these creatures. I would once have laughed at the thought of magic in the world, but I don't think I can doubt it in face of what I've seen." He pauses, then adds, "And I know no godless souls could be among us, witch or not. You must be Christian."


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

”Oh you great dolt. Witchcraft is what ignorant peasants do. They burn herbs while chanting nonsense hoping something happens. What really happens is the herbs makes them hallucinate, so they think what they want to see happens.” She gives a wry twist of her lips. ”So please do not lump witchcraft and wizardy together. My power comes from long study of magical tomes, discipline and training. Thiers is just a sham to fool the gullible.”

”And demons and devils are two different matters altogether. Demons are generally resistant, but not immune to fire, whereas devils are immune to fire. Demons come from the abyss, while devils come from hell. I could expound on the whole subject, but it’d probably go right over your head..”

Badahir

”You’re wrong. I don’t believe in god. I have seen no proof he exists, and he certainly didn’t show up when they attacked Kaer Morhen.” Celeste answers bitterly.”Only knowledge and study is the true road to power.”

I edited my post

Silver Crusade

HP: 20/20 |AC:16 T:12 FF:16,| CMD: 14 | Fort: +4, Refl: +1, Will: +5 | Init: +3, Speed 30ft, Perception +7 Spells per day:First:3/3 | Judgement 1/1| Ferocious Strike 5/5 | Lesser Smite 1/1 Female Human Inquisitor 2

Quickly but reverently running into the Papal offices comes a young woman wearing scale mail with a fleur de lis emblazoned upon her shoulders and chest. I hope I'm not late, oh goodness some are already here "Good afternoon Sister, so sorry that I am late to the meeting, I got distracted, you see this is my first time in the Vatican city and there is just so much history here and I'm here to answer the call to rid our world of Lucifer and his legions."

Knowledge History, untrained: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 1 = 18

She turns and sees the rest of the group already in conversation and waits for them to pause before she introduces herself. "Hello, I am Maud Lefévre and I come from the Dutchy of Burgundy, its a pleasure to meet you all."


Retired to SUMITHA

Maud ninja'd my post!

'Hold my tongue... no god at all?'

Elek shakes his head, "Compensated for children? Obviously you have none, if you did you vould understand vat evil you spew. You are arrogant in zee justification of your sultan and your religion. I hope you shoot your matchlock as vell as your mouth."

Shaking his head at the girl, "You claim to be educated but hell and the abyss are zee same thing. But vee both agree zat there are devils and demons and if zere is, zen zere must be God. But I don't care vat either of you two believe as long as you can fight."

going to bed, once the arguing is over
Hearing the latch of the door click, Elek, turns and watches as it appears someone else is entering.


Male Turkish Gunslinger (Musket Master) 1
Defenses/Stats/Resources:
HP 11/11 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | Fort+3 Ref +6 Will+2 | Initiative +3 | Perception +6 | Sense Motive +2 | Grit 2/2

"No proof?" Badahir seems to take great offense to that, and he throws his arms out in exasperation. "If the end of the world isn't proof that God is real, if the chance that we all have to fight one last time to save it isn't a sign to you, then what is? What sort of fool-" He slowly begins to calm himself, and he gathers his thoughts again. Elek's words don't bother him as much as the lack of faith Celeste professes. He calms himself.

"If the servants of evil are real, then God must be as well, and we must fight them. That much we can agree on, Hungarian." Badahir glances back at Elek and pauses. "Or are you German? I am not sure-" It is then that he realizes that Maud has entered the room, and he politely bows his head to her, but the discussion has clearly been heated for some time.

"Badahir," he says. Then he gestures at the others in turn: "Elek, Celeste. You are from the Duchy of Burgundy? Your trip here must not have been made easily."


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

”Hell and the abyss are two different Outer Planes. And the inhabitants of both hate each other to the bone. And now Belial has created a gateway to bring the minions of the abyss into the material plane, which is where we are now.” Celeste tries to explain, while raising a finger.”I believe demons exist because I’ve seen them with my own eyes. If god was so almighty and all that, why didn’t he do anything when Kaer Morhen was invaded? Or with the demon invasion here?” She raises both arms in a questioning gesture.

”I believe what I can see – with my own eyes.” Celeste answers firmly. ”The servants of evil are real, because I’ve seen them. I have not seen any sign of God.”

”No, the trip here was not easy. It was razed villages, burnt fields, heaps of the dead with no one to bury them. Demons scouring the country side, killing and feasting on anyone they can get their hands on. There will probably be an outbreak of plague after this, if any of us live to see it.” Celeste shakes her head sadly.

Dark Archive

Male Medium Human Cleric 10 | HP: 47/99 | AC: 24/23 | F: +15, R: +16, W: +21 | Dec/Itm/Perf +16, Lore/Soc +15, Dip/Rel/Per +19, Med +21| Speed 25ft | Hero Points 3/3, Focus 1/1, D Font 3/5, Heal 0/1 SL 1/1| Active Conditions:

The sound of slow clapping reverberates around the antechamber. The nun looks up, startled, before genuflecting as a tall, dark man in the red robes of a Cardinal enters. "Theological debate is a pleasure heard all too rarely in these halls dear friends. Now in normal times I would engage with you most happily and debate the intricacies of the Almighty's plan for the world. Unfortunately we do not have that luxury at this time. One thing I hope and believe we can agree on is that the threat posed by Belial and his minions is immediate and dangerous. The Holy Father has called a meeting - I assume that is why you are here. Now I understand that you are all guests here, but I will not allow unseemly bickering in front of the Holy Father. If your disagreements must be resolved now, then remove yourselves from these holy chambers first."

Threat delivered, Lucius turns the charm on again. "Oh, and welcome to the Vatican. Cardinal d'Borja at your service." His bow to Celeste and Marie is noticeably deeper than that to the men.


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

"The Almighty does not exist." Celeste insists stubbornly. "We're here now because we have a common enemy, the demons. And we all wish to repel the demons before they overrun us. That in itself is sufficient. Our personal beliefs are not of significant consequence."


Retired to SUMITHA

when Maud enters
Great, Joan of arc, returned I'm sure...at least she's dressed for a fight.' Aggravated enough that he forgets to be polite, Elek gives the armored woman a nod, and continues glairing at Celeste.

When Lucius enters
'Blast, well The catholics have arrived, it looks like this meeting is about to start.' When the Cardinal walks in Elek quickly turns to face him, stepping backwards near Badahir, his grip on his quarterstaff tightly enough to turn his knuckles white.

Not greeting the Cardinal, Elek, standing beside the turk, cocks his head down and in a near whisper, Bohemian, vere did you serve before za fall?

I have a friend from the Czech Republic, but I can't do his accent, I've gone with more of a German one, of course were speaking Latin, so who knows what a Bohemian accent would sound like. Really, I just like accents.

and it looks like the bands all here...


The nun peeks her head out, eyeing the group before you, and decides to step fully into the room, "His Most Holy is ready for you now, please remember to always address him has Holy Father or Your Holiness, remain standing until he sits down first, be polite and be on your best behavior. . Now please follow me,"

She leads you into an opulent meeting room, a large polished marble table dominates the room and at the head an ornate throne. An older man, hands on knees as he pushes on them to rise, with gentle eyes, laugh lines and wispy gray eyebrows, "Welcome. . .I'm glad to see you all before me here. I have asked for volunteers to come forward for a special quest."

He gestures to chairs around the table, "Please sit,"

"Now. . the gates have been closed off to the city and I have enacted holy wards to protect us but those wards mean nothing if the gates are opened. . However we need to know what's going on outside our walls. We can't last forever." Gesturing to an attendant a map is laid out on the table, "There is a secret passage that leads from the Basilica into a vacant house in Rome, I want you to take it and venture out into Rome and scout the situation, find out what exactly we are up against and if there are any survivors to do everything you can to save them. Do everything you can to prevent the location of this secret entrance from being discovered, our very key to salvation may lead to our ruin if it were discovered"

Sense Motive DC15:
He looks incredibly tired, this whole situation must be taxing his health, he was already a rather frail man before the Apocalypse.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1uC0-xzLqzcwEvdwbt9q8WxCMzYWC90XNSzh zh9-C_uM/edit?usp=sharing


Sorry guys, my bbc code broke on that link, its a click through to a google slides document with maps of rome


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

The link isn't working on my android. I see no map

"Your Holiness." She inclines her head. 'So this is the Pope. I don't share his beliefs, but he looks like a nice person. I'll call him by his title if it'll make him happy. Let none say that the Order of Merlin does not know proper etiquette' she thinks to herself. "First - Does the Bascila have sufficient water and food stocked? The demons could invade anytime, and we might get holed in. Next - when have the demons been invading, generally at what time of the day. Have you had any prior intelligence reports on what kind of demons, and in what numbers do they patrol?" She asks cooly. "Is there a vantage point from the walls, where we can observe demon activity, before heading out?"

"What aid can the Church give? I would like to see if you have any cold iron weapons, or blessed oils and curative items if we are to be able to get into Rome to rescue civilians."


Retired to SUMITHA

sense motive: 1d20 ⇒ 5

As the girl ushers them out of the room, Elek, pauses, letting the others go before him. bringing up the rear he is the last to see the now standing old man. 'His Holiness, Gods sole representative on earth. No wonder were in such trouble.' Pausing for a moment he nods, and sits, 'Having us take a seat, that seems odd, I wouldn't have expected it.'

Looking at the map carefully, Elek is able to identify several locations, but was not familiar with the area the tunnel came out. Assuming one of the Catholics would start the conversation, Looking away from the map as it was the young lady from Kaer Morhen who spoke first. 'Ah at least our witch was polite. No reason not to be polite. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar.'

Waiting until Celeste is done Elek clears his throat and speaks carefully so as not to make his Latin too broken."Your emine... err, Holy Father, vee can appreciate not vanting to give avay za secret house tunnel. You ask zat vee help za survivors. How vill ve be able to do zat? Vee cannot send zem throught za secret tunnel. Shall vee send zem to za gate? is vere a signal vee can give for za gate to be opened? Or are vee just to reconnoiter?"

Dark Archive

Male Medium Human Cleric 10 | HP: 47/99 | AC: 24/23 | F: +15, R: +16, W: +21 | Dec/Itm/Perf +16, Lore/Soc +15, Dip/Rel/Per +19, Med +21| Speed 25ft | Hero Points 3/3, Focus 1/1, D Font 3/5, Heal 0/1 SL 1/1| Active Conditions:

"Holy Father." Lucius nods politely as he enters. Although Lucius and Rodrigo had ensured his holiness's election they did not like him. Respected him, certainly. His Holiness was known as an astute politician, and a man of learning and piety, a suitable head of the Universal Church. None-the-less the Borja cardinals had never warmed to him - that was no reason not to be polite however.

Listening carefully as the Pope speaks Lucius nods periodically but says little. The Pope's obvious exhaustion is apparent to him, as it has been in the last two consistories. Take 10 on SM

The Order of Merlin accolyte speaks first, although she at least speaks politely. More concern than she showed me. He notes with amusement. Her questions are sensible, which impresses him just as much. When the eastern european with the thick accent speaks he simply sits back to wait for the Holy Father's response. His own presence was no real mystery. The Pope wants someone responsible overseeing this group, and no doubt he will weep few tears if I fail to return.


Male Turkish Gunslinger (Musket Master) 1
Defenses/Stats/Resources:
HP 11/11 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | Fort+3 Ref +6 Will+2 | Initiative +3 | Perception +6 | Sense Motive +2 | Grit 2/2

In answer to the Bohemian's question, the Janissary quietly murmurs "In the conquest of Crimea, and I fought the Albanian rebels." The Turk doesn't say more, at least for now.

As the motley group is brought before the Pope, Badahir looks to the Christians to see how they greet their Pope. Seeing them bow their heads, he decides to do the same, and he listens to them speak on matters of equipment, specifics on their task... Badahir slowly lets himself sit down, as the Pope had asked, and thinks on the matter. His eyes are on the map, and his mind is on that and the discussion. He says nothing for now.

Taking 10 on Knowledge (Engineering) gives me a 15. What are some useful observations he could make about the layout of the area around the vacant house they will use to begin their scouting mission? Given the limitations of just seeing a map.

Silver Crusade

HP: 20/20 |AC:16 T:12 FF:16,| CMD: 14 | Fort: +4, Refl: +1, Will: +5 | Init: +3, Speed 30ft, Perception +7 Spells per day:First:3/3 | Judgement 1/1| Ferocious Strike 5/5 | Lesser Smite 1/1 Female Human Inquisitor 2

"Your Holiness." Maud bows before Pope Pius II and takes a chair at the end of the table when the seats are offered. She listens intently as the others asks His Holiness questions.

Such a unique group of people to have answered His Holiness' call, I hope the clashing of religious beliefs wont cause too many problems.. Maud seems lost in thought as she surveys the map and her new found companions sitting at the table.

"I agree with you," pointing to the man with the thick accent since she unfortunately missed getting his name. I'll have to remember to get everyone's names if we will be working closely together... "Your Holiness, how would you like us to ensure the safe passage of any survivors left in the city? Are there any other secret entrances into the Vatican that we should know about?" She patiently folds her hands upon the table while the Pope responds.


Retired to SUMITHA

'other entrances that we should know about?' Coming half out of his chair, Elek blurts out. ”Nien!"

Quickly recovering his seat, obviously embarrassed by his outburst he continues. ”Pardon your Holiness, please do not answer za girls qvestion. If vee are captured I believe za militia can collapse za passagevay ve used vit gunpowder."

Elek stops long enough to make eye contact with the musketeer, looking for reassurance then continues. ”zen only vee und it vill be lost. But if vee know of za other routes back into za city zen all vill be lost.”


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

"I like the idea of knowing multiple routes into the Vatican. Never know when they'll come in handy." Celeste muses.

"I do get where Elek is coming from...but that is purely based on the assumption that we're expandable." Celeste says unhappily. "I don't want to think myself as expandable."

"Intellectually I do know that if the demons get their hands on us, they'll happily torture every bit of information they can out of us, and it's not a happy thought." Celeste frowns. "It's your call, your Holiness." She finally answers.


Sorry guys, had a real life game last night, usually I get home around 10:30pm, didn't get home till 1:45am. It was my intention to post last night

His Holiness listens quietly as you each talk, watching you all very carefully, as do his attendants.

TRY THIS LINK FOR MAPS

Answering Celeste's first question, sighing slightly before, "We are stretched thin, our counts put about 3,000 refugees in the city and too few of them are men capable of helping defend the city. We are hoping you can provide us aid to help survive this ordeal," he motions to an attendant who produces a painting, the paints are still rather fresh, it must have been painted in the last day or so, THE PAINTING "Scholars believe her to be a foul half-demon, the spawn of Asmodeus, we don't know her name but if the siege is to be lifted, she'll have to be destroyed. . ."[/b] he lets the sentence trail off, knowing how impossible the task is.

Nodding to Elek, 'I understand wanting to keep the tunnel a secret, we mustn't let it fall into demon hands but if you can smuggle two or three people at time through the tunnel and back into the Vatican, we are near to full but we can always find more room and food to provide,"

Addressing Maud, "I have priests pouring over old records of the area trying to find any other secrets that have been left uncovered for centuries since St. Peter first built the Holy See,"

Raising his hands, "Please, Please, there is enough fighting going on outside our walls we don't need to fight amongst ourselves. . ."

Badahair:
Eyeing the maps, you notice this abandoned town house lies outside the city, near enough to the famed Colosseum to see it, Its also near the River Tiber. There are mostly farms and other town houses nearby.


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

'He can't provide any aid...we really have our work cut out for us'She thinks to herself.

"Do you know her name? Names are power." She asks the Pope. "With her name it may be possible to banish her to the abyss."

First slide do we start at the white circle, or the black circle? I'm thinking we start at the white circle, secret tunnel leads to the black circle.

"Sorry your Holiness, I am not familiar with the city and will need to ask questions."She points out the various points of interest on the map and asks the Pope what they denote.

Slide 3 - what are the places denoted - 01,02,03,04,05,06,07,08,09,spearhead, flower and exclamation mark


Retired to SUMITHA

'The lives are important, I'm glad he sees that.' Elek nods his head in agreement with the pope, "So vee save who vee can, und find za spawn of Asmodeus, so vee can make a plan to kill her." Thinking for a moment he asks, "Is zer anything zat you vant us to vatch for to bring back? Food? veapons? Metal or gunpowder? Maybe any books vit information?"


Male Turkish Gunslinger (Musket Master) 1
Defenses/Stats/Resources:
HP 11/11 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | Fort+3 Ref +6 Will+2 | Initiative +3 | Perception +6 | Sense Motive +2 | Grit 2/2

"We won't find much in the way of metal or gunpowder there," Badahir says as he eyes the map. "There are mostly farms and town houses there. We should focus our search on finding survivors, rations, and demons to kill. If we do find a great stash of weapons, I would be very surprised." Badahir pauses, then adds, "I think we will be safe so long as we keep away from the open. I do not know how demons think, but were I the conqueror, I would have lookouts posted on the walls and on the Colosseum, and I do not doubt some of these monsters will be patroling through the ruins in search of some sort of... sport."

Dark Archive

Male Medium Human Cleric 10 | HP: 47/99 | AC: 24/23 | F: +15, R: +16, W: +21 | Dec/Itm/Perf +16, Lore/Soc +15, Dip/Rel/Per +19, Med +21| Speed 25ft | Hero Points 3/3, Focus 1/1, D Font 3/5, Heal 0/1 SL 1/1| Active Conditions:

Lucius sits quietly while the rest of his new group pour over the maps the Pope has provided. Lucius doesn't see much need, given his experience of the city and reasonable grasp of the current military situation (thanks to Grandmaster O'Brian of the Knights Templar). Instead he chooses to observe his companions, noting what he can of each of their thoughts and strengths.

The wizard - brash but afraid. False confidence to mask the fear.
The Turk - capable. He displays a military mind and a good comprehension of tactics. He will be valuable.
The Bohemian also seems capable, pragmatic certainly as well. He seems very concerned with the greater good. Commendable, but dangerous for a man to hold his own life lightly.
The Frenchwoman, a christian at least. She seems sensible enough and well armored. I will not want for military support at least - although heaven forbid we be called upon for negotiation or subtlety.

Sorry if Lucius is coming over as an ass. He's just not used to having people he can rely on. (And is keenly aware of his own position!
:D)

Silver Crusade

HP: 20/20 |AC:16 T:12 FF:16,| CMD: 14 | Fort: +4, Refl: +1, Will: +5 | Init: +3, Speed 30ft, Perception +7 Spells per day:First:3/3 | Judgement 1/1| Ferocious Strike 5/5 | Lesser Smite 1/1 Female Human Inquisitor 2

Listening to the Pope's information, Maud tries to recall if she remembers anything about the demon Asmodeous.

Kn Religion for Asmodeous: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7

Hmm I don't seem to remember much, other than the fact that he is well known demon...

Maud stands and takes a closer look at the painting. And the light seems to dance in her eyes as it seems like she notices, or remembers something.

Kn Religion vs the Painting: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22


Maud:
You recognize this creature has been some sort of demonic creature, you've heard them called Tieflings before, or half-demons. They are the spawn of demons, usually can see in the dark, are resistant to fire, cold and electricity, she looks like some sort of sorcerer or warlock

I deleted that map, I didn't feel like it did anything but sowed confusion, you guys are the black circle which represents the Holy See(Vatican City) and the white circle is the area outside of Rome that you emerge from the tunnel. It goes down pretty deep, below the River Tiber

The Pope rises, looking weary and tired, "Now, it has been a long day for some, I will retire and lead one more mass for the downtrodden, we mustn't give up hope and faith, this is our great flood and our rainbow will come in time,"

With that he walks off, leaving the 5 of you in the room alone.


Retired to SUMITHA

'Survivors, food and fight demons.' Nodding his head with the Turks statement, Standing as the pope leaves, Elek turns to the Musketeer "I believe zat you are correct about our secondary priorities. Vee Find people und send zem back here. Any food vee find vee can send vit zem. Of course our first priority is finding und possibly slaying za 'daughter.' Any demons vee find vee must either kill or hide from. Vee must not let zem inform za chain of command zat vee are in za area."

He gives a vicious smile. "zey vill find out all to soon anyvay."

'The witch said something about cold iron that was interesting.' Turning to Celeste he nods toward the dagger. "Fräulein you said 'cold iron' vill kill zem, isn't it raw iron from meteors? often formed at low temperatures? As a tinker I have a little skill vit metal. But I have no knowledge about fighting za supernatural."

Then turning to the Cardinal. "I assume Pater zat you are here to be our guide?"


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

Celeste shakes her head at Elek's optimism. "Killing their leader will not be easy. Demons prefer to let the drudges go first with the high ranking demons at the back. You're right about not letting any escape, but some of the demons can teleport, so it may not be as easy as it looks."

"I believe so - not sure if we have any meteors falling down lately."

"Lets go first to the blacksmith and armory to see if there's any cold iron that can be salvaged, then see what we're dealing with by looking down the battlements."


Male Turkish Gunslinger (Musket Master) 1
Defenses/Stats/Resources:
HP 11/11 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | Fort+3 Ref +6 Will+2 | Initiative +3 | Perception +6 | Sense Motive +2 | Grit 2/2

"We don't need to go to the battlements to know what there is to see," muses the Janissary with a frown. "We have all seen it before, and it will not reflect what we'll see on the other side of the passage. This exit leads to a small town outside the walls of Rome.

"I doubt we will be able to strike at their leader today, either," adds Badahir as he rises from his seat, "but this should give us a good opportunity to test how well these demons react to being on the defensive. I look forward to this opportunity for revenge. Heaven grant us strength."


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

"At least at the battlements we'd be able to see which part of the city they are sacking," Celeste argues. "Observing how they move through the city may give us indications on where the demon patrols are, so we can ambush, or avoid them."

"Forewarned is forearmed."


Male Turkish Gunslinger (Musket Master) 1
Defenses/Stats/Resources:
HP 11/11 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | Fort+3 Ref +6 Will+2 | Initiative +3 | Perception +6 | Sense Motive +2 | Grit 2/2

"And time spent staring at the horde is time not spent rescuing whoever may be hiding out there," Badahir answers back with a shake of his head. "I have idled enough, and we'll have plenty of time to observe them when we are behind their lines." The soldier rests his hand on his sword's hilt - in a relaxed fashion, as if it just felt more comfortable there. "If you must observe the horde," he says in an authoritative tone, "then let's split our tasks: some shall go get your cold iron, others to the battlement, and then we'll meet at this place His Holiness told us of."


Retired to SUMITHA

Dadahir you ninja'd my post, I will alter it slightly?
GM Cody, What information did we gather about the enemies activities on our journey to Rome?

'yes, heaven grant us strength, but we need to figure out how to stop the bickering.' Elek looks from Celeste then to Badahir, he then looks to their guide. "Pater, vould you be able to get us to za battlements qvickly und zen to za metal vorkers to look for 'cold iron'. Or vill it take longer und vee should split za Party?" He looks around at the group again. "Za decision to look at za enemies movement may be determined by how soon vee can do so, Ya?"

Then moving closer to the musketeer, "Badahir, a moment if you please. Za Musket is a fine veapon for killing at a distance as vell as devastating ven using shot up close. My father saw it use in za 'Hussite vars' und vould have had one if he could afford it."

Pausing for a moment trying not to offend. 'However zey are, how to say, lautstark. I mean loud, very loud." Patting his crossbow, he continues. "You are probably a better shot than I, vould you vant to use za crossbow, for silent use, und zen za arquebus for more distant or emergency vork?"


Male Turkish Gunslinger (Musket Master) 1
Defenses/Stats/Resources:
HP 11/11 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | Fort+3 Ref +6 Will+2 | Initiative +3 | Perception +6 | Sense Motive +2 | Grit 2/2

Good thought on the crossbow. And sorry about ninja'ing.

The Turk considers Elek's suggestion for a moment, drumming his finger against his sword's hilt. "You make a fair point," he decides. "I'll use your crossbow - and for now, you can carry my crowbar. You're probably the stronger of the two of us anyway, and you'd be more than capable of coaxing things open with it, I think."

Crowbar = 5 lbs, your crossbow + bolts = 5 pounds. This keeps me at a light load.


Retired to SUMITHA

hey I would rather you ninja my post than not post :-) anyway as long as I check above my own 'preview' before I 'submit' it's all good.

'There is wisdom in his thinking, I don't know if it's his training or if he just has a good head on his shoulders, but that makes sense.' Elek nods. Swapping the crossbow and bolts for the crowbar. He then smiles, "Now vee need some 'cold iron' for bolt heads und for musket balls, Blades vould be nice, but I vould rather kill za demons from a distance." He thinks about blades for a moment. "Maybe a spearhead for a pike"

Looking at the others he asks. "Vat do vee need to do to leave, zis place still gives me za villies."

Dark Archive

Male Medium Human Cleric 10 | HP: 47/99 | AC: 24/23 | F: +15, R: +16, W: +21 | Dec/Itm/Perf +16, Lore/Soc +15, Dip/Rel/Per +19, Med +21| Speed 25ft | Hero Points 3/3, Focus 1/1, D Font 3/5, Heal 0/1 SL 1/1| Active Conditions:
Elek Kardforgató wrote:
"Pater, vould you be able to get us to za battlements qvickly und zen to za metal vorkers to look for 'cold iron'. Or vill it take longer und vee should split za Party?" He looks around at the group again. "Za decision to look at za enemies movement may be determined by how soon vee can do so, Ya?"

Lucius looks up when addressed directly, covering his momentary surprise fairly well. "That will be simple enough. Although I caution that any cold iron will likely have been requisitioned by the Knights Templar. They are experienced in the ways of demons and would not have left any weapon they could use behind. The battlements will be a matter of simply walking there - we could be there in five minutes with haste." He stands decisively and leads the way out the room in a flurry of red robes.

"This way."


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

"Charging into unknown territory without intel is likely to get is all killed. I'm not interested in getting ambushed by a demon patrol we could have spotted from the battlements and ripped apart." Celeste snaps back.

"Sure, I'll fight, but on MY terms. And I am NOT going to put MY LIFE on the line for some random roman citizen that I've never met prior to this."'And you're fools if you think I would' But those words go unspoken.

"Yes, at least someone shows SOME common sense in dealing with demons." She casts an approving eye on Elek. "If you can get your hands on a reach weapon, I could make you grow to the size of a giant. Which would let you hit much farther then you normally would."

"It'd make you helluva big target, but I suppose sacrifices must be made." Celeste shrugs. "And I'd best accompany you to the armory so at least SOMEONE knows what cold iron is."


Male Turkish Gunslinger (Musket Master) 1
Defenses/Stats/Resources:
HP 11/11 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | Fort+3 Ref +6 Will+2 | Initiative +3 | Perception +6 | Sense Motive +2 | Grit 2/2
Quote:
"Sure, I'll fight, but on MY terms. And I am NOT going to put MY LIFE on the line for some random roman citizen that I've never met prior to this."

Badahir gives Celeste a stare as she says those words, then breaks out into a long, deep chuckle. It's not a pleasant sound.

"Well, I know not to depend on you, at least," the Janissary says with a twisted smile. "Thank you for that. It is better to know your colors now than discover them later after trusting you."

Badahir follows after the Cardinal at that, resting the crossbow against his shoulder as if it were his arquebus. He mutters something to himself in Greek.

Greek:
"Even in the face of Hell on Earth fools will wear pragmatism as a mask for petty selfishness. Damned witch."


Heading out, its as the Cardinal says, only a short walk from the Papal Apartments to the gates to St. Peter's Square and the adjoining battlements.

You walk past hundreds of refugees packed in everywhere, many of them hurt, scared and worse. Nuns and priests tend to the wounded, distributing water and bread. Changing bandages here and there.

Picking your way through St. Peter's Square, you find yourselves on the battlements looking out at through a slightly opaque, shimmering field of force at what was once Rome, a city of marble columns and beauty. Now smoke, fire and rubble have replaced the once glorious city. Many buildings still stand but only as shells of themselves. the faint sound of screams can be heard, constant, as if hundreds were being tortured.

The immediate area has been cleared out around the gates to St. Peter's and in is set up a demon camp. the legions of Hell are arrayed, early estimates put it at around 100 demons of all shapes and sizes. From tiny fluttering imps to hulking behemoths. Undead zombies shamble around, the unholy abominations of the unfortunate Roman citizens that didn't make it.

A guard, adorned in armor, a crossbow in one hand, "Its a bleak sight to look out upon. . .The screams never seem to stop. ." Holding a hand, "I'm Marco, I help guard his Holiness, I was lucky enough to be here when things all went to Hell. My family is out there in the city somewhere. . I pray they're dead, the alternative is too horrible to imagine,"


@Elek, it was my thought that most of you just happened to be in Rome and made a break for the Vatican as most everyone else did when all Hell broke loose. That's why there aren't that many capable fighters, nor really much information about the outside world, just yet.

Dark Archive

Male Medium Human Cleric 10 | HP: 47/99 | AC: 24/23 | F: +15, R: +16, W: +21 | Dec/Itm/Perf +16, Lore/Soc +15, Dip/Rel/Per +19, Med +21| Speed 25ft | Hero Points 3/3, Focus 1/1, D Font 3/5, Heal 0/1 SL 1/1| Active Conditions:
Badahir wrote:
** Greek **

"The line between the two is a fine one, and conflicts such as these can cause many a good person to forget themselves." Lucius replies in fluent, if slightly accented greek.

On the Walls.
Lucius shakes Marco's hand firmly. "Trust in God my son. Your family may yet be saved by his divine hand." He stares out over the city, trying to imprint as much as he can on his memory in the short time they have available.


Retired to SUMITHA
GM Cody wrote:
@Elek, it was my thought that most of you just happened to be in Rome and made a break for the Vatican as most everyone else did when all Hell broke loose. That's why there aren't that many capable fighters, nor really much information about the outside world, just yet.

GM Cody:
Ok, I will try and retcon that in Einars backstory, I imagined him coming to Rome to fight after he found his family dead. Would you prefer he was in Rome delivering a clock or something?

The reason it becomes important is his emotional state. With his present backstory I have him mourning the death of wife and children and near suicidal wanting to fight what killed them. If he was in Rome without them he would be wanting to go home to check on them, and I would play him differently. A third option is that he took his wife and children with him to deliver something to rome. He left them with the wagon to deliver the item. Returned just after the attack and found them dead with the wagon outside the city and has now returned to Rome.

I think finding them dead at the wagon would keep his present demeanor and still fill the description you have offered, let me know what you think, thanks.

earlier
'Make me the size of a giant?' Elek gives Celeste a curious look when she says 'size of a giant' but his only responce. "Ya, sacrifices must be made." He then watches and listens as the Turk and Italian speak in what he believes is greek, shaking his head. 'It might be time to learn another language.'

now
Following the guide and gunman to the wall, Elek watches the ground as he walks, not willing to make eye contact with any of the refugees. On the wall itself. Meeting the guard, he comes to attention clicking his heels together, [b["I am Elek Kardforgató, do not pray for death, za Cardinal is correct vee must trust God."[/b] he then looks with interest at the different types of creatures below, imagining how he could kill them.

After a short while he shrugs his shoulders, "It is as vee thought. Za hordes of Hell are at za gate. Let us go on to za armory und see vat veapons vey can spare."


F Female N Wizard | HP 16/16| AC: 13 (12Tch, 11 Fl) | CMB: +0, CMD: 12 | F:+ 2, R: +2, W: +3; | Init: +4 | Perc: +5, SM: +0 | Speed 30ft |

"And of course I know better then to depend someone I just met too," Celeste snips back at Bahadir.

"Description of your family please, and which part of the city they were last seen." Celeste asks Marco dispassionately. "If we're searching for needles in a haystack, at least we'd like to be looking at the right bale of hay."'Maybe that was a little harsh of you, Celeste. You've lost family too. You know how it feels.'She thinks briefly to herself.

Celeste raises a hand, "I'll make no promises, but if we can find them, we'll send them here, and bring their bodies back for a decent burial if that's how things end up. Or burn them if they've already been turned into undead." Softening her tone slightly, "Times like these, I can't promise any more then that. I don't want to give you hope just to have it crushed again. I am sorry."

"Yes, lets go to the armory and see what they can spare." Ever pragmatic, Celeste follows Elek's lead to the armory.

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