Iron Lords

Game Master GM Ghost in the Machine


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This is the place holder for my in game thread. It will kick off later this week.


Torch was never a pretty town. The huge hill on which it was built rose like a canker from the surrounding land, its top blasted bare by the heat from the purple light after which it was named.

Yet despite its ugliness, people flocked to this place like moths drawn to a flame. For a hundred years it had been a bastion of civilisation in a wild and dangerous land. Even the Technic league held very little sway in this town, despite the anual tithes they enforced that kept people poor enough to be controlled but rich enough to stay in town.

Up until two weeks ago, you could rely on the unchanging nature of the place. People worked, humping metals and slag up to and back from the great smithies near the forge light itself. Masters crafted gear from starmetal, using the great light to smelt a mettle that no other flame could touch. At night, the land was lit by the strange purple flourescence of the beam, so that the town never truly slept. Heavy curtains were used toi darken buildings at night, and no street lights ever needed be lit.

Until two weeks ago.

The light from atop the hill had extinguised without warning, flaring off into the darkened sky in a final pulse of energy that no ose expecting. All that remained to tell it had existed was strange coloured pit of molten rock and other minerals, bubbling with heat even two weeks after the flame had extinguished. No one could find what had happened, and no one knew how long this would last. Suddenly the call for lanterns and candles overwhelmed the local shops. Rubbish built up in the streets, where previously carters had taken it ot the great forge light and just thrown it in to be incinerated by the heat. Business began to falter as metals couldnt be shipped or smelted into the raw materials required for the rare smithing pieces the town was famous for.

It was the ever popular councilor Khonnor Baine who finally found a possible clue. He had returned to town one day, dripping water and lugging back and broken machine of some sort, shaped like a humanoid but constructed of metals and crystals unlike anyhting others had seen. Scholars spoke of "Clockwork creations" and "Robots" in vague whispers around town, but none could truly find the purpose of this device, nor how to repair it. It certainly seemed similar to the machine like creatures that roamed the wastes in this part of the land, the ones that sane people avoided if they wished not to die. Yet this one didnt function, and had no weapons that any could see.

Khonnir claimed to have found a network of tunnels beneath the township itself, and led an expedition of capable explorers back to furhter investigate. He hadn't been seen since.

Other expeditions had been mounted, some at the request of the council, and some from private parties hoping to profit. It has been 9 days now since the Councelor went missing, and none of the other parties havereturned either. Things are becoming desperate in town, and fear is truly beginnning the grip the population.

The four people sitting around the table in the gunsmiths home were a disparate group. Mostly women, they seemed to be drawn from all walks of life. The rugged wilds, the callings of religion, the ephemeral arcana. The one man amongst them stood resting upon the doorframe to his meagre kitchen. They had all gathered for a similar cause.

Each of them had their own reasons for deciding to do so, but it was decided none the less. They would be the next group to delve into the caves beneath Torch and resolve this situation.

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

Norm leans against the door frame loading his pipe, an elegant hand-carved thing that he gently packs with a rich smelling blend of herbs. Lighting it and drawing deep, the local gunsmith exhales, filling the room with the fragrant and rich smell of pipe smoke. Looking at the others he shifts his weight from one side of the door frame to the other before speaking,

"I'm glad you all could make it - Khonnir has been a good friend of mine for some years now and he's a pillar of the community. I figure we have three options; we can go see the other Councelors and see what leads they've been able to dig up. Also we need to check on Val, his little girl. I'm not certain what to do about the flame..." Norman Guff pauses long enough to draw from his pipe once more.

"Khonn would know though - I'd wager that our best hope of rekindling the flame would be to find the man who knows the most about it. Here is my suggestion; let us go and speak to the other town leaders and see what they have to say, then go by the Foundry and check on Val. I feel obligated to see to the girl, she's almost like a daughter to m'own self. After that we retrace his steps, going down into the caverns where he led the first expedition." he pauses again, rekindling the flame to his pipe and inhaling deeply before finishing his thoughts.

"We're civilized folk here obviously, so by no means am I trying to boss ya around m'friends. We all live out here because we value our independence n'all, so what say you? I've said my peace - please, feel free to do the same." the cat-eyed slim fellow with shoulder length brown hair says frankly. He seems genuinely interested in hearing feedback for his plan of action.


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

Alyna sits at the table staring down at her holy text, Logic of Design open before her. Her only movement is the metronomic tapping of her finger on the table. After a moment the tapping abruptly stops and she looks up at Norm, her blue-green eyes giving off a soft glow.

"Speaking to the council would be the logical thing to do," she says softly with a melodious yet clearly mechanical and somewhat monotone voice."They may have information on their missing comrade. Khonnir's daughter may have some information on his whereabouts as well, plus I would like to see this mechanical creation that the Councilor had recovered."

Alyna pauses for a moment, as if pondering something.

"I do, however, also desire to investigate the location of where the flame originated from. My devotion to the Goddess demands that I perform at least a cursory evaluation of the site."


Female Human Barbarian (Numerian Liberator) 2 | AC 15/11/14 | HP 28/28 (32/32 while Raging) | F+5, R+1, W+2 | +2 morale bonus on saving throws made to resist spells, supernatural abilities, and spell-like abilities. Init.+1 | Percept.+6 | Sense Motive +1 | 8/8 Rage rounds today

"The most to propane thing is to investigate that cursed robot! I'm sure the thing has been sent here to kill everyone in this town. The ancestors of the tribe have told me these things have happened before! When we put it down, you can study it, and determine exactly what your God thinks about it. The safety of this village depends on us seeking out that metal creature! Then we can meet with the Council of the town,". The slender Kellid woman smolders as she talks about the robot plague, ending her speech with her fist banging on the table. She was girded for battle, with spear and sword strapped across her back, as her long dark hair was tied back in a pony tail, out of her face.

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

Norm chuckles, nodding at his companions as they speak.

"We shall assuredly check the flame AND the automaton. Let's go speak to the counsolers, then check on Val and the automaton at the Foundry. After that we can decide where to go from there - I can tell you this much ladies, nothing will get done sitting in my kitchen bantering all day." the gunsmith says with an edge in his voice that shows he has little patience for inaction when one of his best friends may be lost, or worse. He grabs his musket and makes to head for the door.

"Shall we?" he shoots back, looking over his shoulder.


Female Android Summoner 2, HP 16/16, AC 14 Fort 0 Ref 2 Will 3, Init +2

Zlota looks at the others gathered. Humans and another like herself. An eyebrow raised as she listens to the others before tapping the table. "A meeting with the councilors is a decent proposal, though I also suggest we take care. Numerous others have began this line of reasoning and not a one has been seen since."

Turning to face the female human she looks at her hard. Obvious hostility to non-organic life. Must watch her closely. She looks at Norman and nods. When she speaks it can be picked up ever so slightly as if her voice has another mixed with it, slightly higher in pitch but still her own voice. "I... feellLike I am ready to proceed. But again, let me stress caution: Once we begin, we must commit to this wholly."


Female Human Barbarian (Numerian Liberator) 2 | AC 15/11/14 | HP 28/28 (32/32 while Raging) | F+5, R+1, W+2 | +2 morale bonus on saving throws made to resist spells, supernatural abilities, and spell-like abilities. Init.+1 | Percept.+6 | Sense Motive +1 | 8/8 Rage rounds today

"Let's do this already, then. City dwellers seem to want to do nothing but talk. I doubt they have much important to say, but they will take their damn time in speaking it, that's for sure. The sooner we finish with them, the sooner we can get to the real issue."

Bitha's tone leaves little doubt what she thought the main issue was....that automaton.

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

"I've never known a finer man than Khonnir Baine. I'll find him, or find out what happened to him - either way I'm personally invested. My home is here, my friend is missing." Norm says with some urgency.

He looks to Bitha, "I know the stories your people tell, and I doubt them not fierce warrior. Please try to keep in mind though, the automatons that menaced your tribe were probably under the thrall of some darker being, tools of some malevolent master. Not all 'robots' are the same. Khonnir could explain this better." Norman says, the frustration in his voice grows as he is unable to convey his point as well as his mentor would have.

Damnit Khonnir Baine! Where are you, old friend?


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

Alyna focuses her gaze on Bitha. "Brigh is always depicted as a goddess, not a god. I know of no instances otherwise," she says matter-of-factly with no emotion evident in her voice.
Alyna then gently closes her holy text and slowly stands up before continuing.
"Let us proceed with our objectives. Finding Councilor Baine is indeed paramount. I apologize, Lady Bitha, but even I must put aside my desire to examine the automaton and investigate the mountaintop for the greater good of the town. Mistress Val is but only a child, and she may not have been privy to all of Councilor Baine's plans."

Alyna takes her holy text and secures it to her belt before gathering up the rest of her belongings. Then, without a word, she walks to the door and exits the residence to wait outside for her companions.

Spells Prepared: 1st - bless, burning disarm, burning hands*; 0 - light, mending, stabilize

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

Didn't take long for us to disagree on where to start. Assuming the GM doesn't want us splitting up I'm going to post a poll in the discussion tab. Vote time. We all have drasticaly different goals it seems.


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

I was going to go wherever the rest of the group wanted to go. I simply stated the desire to investigate for character desires and whatnot. If you notice, I finished by saying we should speak to the councilors

On a side note, This is how I should have probably posted my Spells Prepared maybe? This is my first PbP game, so I'm still learning.

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

You're doing fantastic!:) I really like the concept and your character totally would want to visit a holy site. I figured I'd post it to ooc just to make sure!

Norm smacks himself on the forehead and makes his way back to his kitchen to grab his ammunition pouches. "Look at me, so worried over Khonn that I almost left my bullets. Some hunter I am!" he grins in embarasment.


Female Android Summoner 2, HP 16/16, AC 14 Fort 0 Ref 2 Will 3, Init +2

As Norman retreats to his kitchen to retrieve his ammunition, Zlota focus's her thoughts. Adiskide , zuk deitzen denari dut... The Adroffan words resonate through her head and a slight increase in illumination from her circuit-like markings occur before a serpent like creature forms in an ouroboros about her feet. With a grown it rises up, it's cold silver eyes looking about the group.

"I'm ready now. Let's move on."


Having decided the councillors were the best option to see first, the small group moved out from Norm's hut. The light of morning was clear and crisp, a sight most still weren't used to in the town. Usually the sky had a pallid hue of smoke from smelting and other forge works, tinted with purple from the light of the Torch itself.

Now golden sunlight gleamed off terracotta roofs and reflected dully from the stonework buildings in town.

Norm led them past the Evercandle Inn, famous for its technological lights that never dimmed. The place seemed as busy as ever, not phased at the moment by the towns predicament.

Not long after the sound of Bronze chimes and clanking gears told them the Temple of Brigh was near. The building was unique in town, covered in the workings of the Clockwork Goddess and the strange findings that cropped up in the Numerian countryside.

Eventually, their steps carried them to the town hall itself. I was an impressive building, tall and built for defence as much as it was function. A large tower jutted from its side like a great claw, providing a sweeping view of the eastern roads and the lands below the hill itself.

The two guards at the door barely glanced at the newcomers, except to point at the sign mentioning the consequences of unsecured weapons in the premises. They looked dog tired, most likely having to pull extra shifts for dealing with the rubbish and small troubles erupting around town. One of them was rubbing at his head as if he was troubled by a headache. That was another thing that had cropped up when the Torch extinguished. More and more people complained of headaches that just wouldn't go away. It made folks edgy.

Inside, the chambers were pragmatic rather than grandiose. Stone benches and fixtures were common, a holdover from the first years of settlement when a few flare ups from the great light had set fire to many buildings in the place.

Only one councilmember was present to address their needs. Dolger Freddert was old, even for a dwarf. She had been around when Torch was first established and had helped tame the surrounding lands and create the town. Despite her age, she still looked strong, and her Adamantine Warhammer still hung at her side, comfortable and close.

She looked up from a pile of paperwork on her desk and took in the group arrayed before them, taking particular note of the glowing serpent and the weapons some of them carried. Her gaze softened a little and she sighed.

" So, another group to plunge the depths and check for Khonnir then. I'm not Surprised it's you as wants to go Norm, and I'm sure you others have thought it through as well. But you best know up front its a dangerous thing you are about to do, and none of us is all too wise as to what's going on down there."

"So, what would have from me?"


Female Human Barbarian (Numerian Liberator) 2 | AC 15/11/14 | HP 28/28 (32/32 while Raging) | F+5, R+1, W+2 | +2 morale bonus on saving throws made to resist spells, supernatural abilities, and spell-like abilities. Init.+1 | Percept.+6 | Sense Motive +1 | 8/8 Rage rounds today

"have you heard any rumors about what's been found down there? Or the threat that it might pose to the town? Something powerful enough to turn the flame out is trouble for everyone!"

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

Norm looks at Dolger like one would an old friend. He eyes the pile of paper work and shares a look of empathy with the councilwoman.

"Grak eresh letugren maf'k, brakka geshnor huotten!'

In Dwarven:
Good to see you old friend, the burden on you is too much!

In common, Norman continues. "We're looking for any help you can offer us Dolger. We all suffer in Khonnir's absence. Any rumors, any thing that can help us track the man down. We could also use any supplies the town can spare. Perhaps a few curative potions or ointments if the town coffers can bear the burden - I fear our road is perilous and if we have any hope of lighting the Flame it lies in finding Khonnir Baine."

Having said his piece, he nods to Dolger out of respect.


Female Android Summoner 2, HP 16/16, AC 14 Fort 0 Ref 2 Will 3, Init +2

Zlota steps up behind Norman and nods briefly. "Any assistance Torch may offer would be greatly appreciated. Ropes, hesling salves and such. We will seek out this Khonnir and, perhaps, get the Torch back." A bold statement, but she felt that as long as they were careful and acted logically, they should be fine.


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

Alyna glances at her companions before focusing on the aged dwarf before them.
"Greetings, Lady Councilor. I am Alyna, devoted priestess to the Goddess Brigh," she says, bowing slightly. " I only require information. Was there anything Councilor Baine might have said to you or the other Councilors before his last expedition? Any information, even the slightest, would be beneficial to our own expedition."


Dolga nodded at each person in turn, smiling a little at Norm's Dwarven. "You're Dwarven's as rusty as your weapons often are Norm." she teased him gently.

"Weeel, ye should know that we've had four groups go into the place. Only the second one came back ye ken, and that was Konnir's group. His second forray into the place wasnae so fortunate". She sagged a little in her seat as she made this statement.

"A number of brave souls went into them caves, and nary a one to come back and tell us what went on. We funded the forst three. The last ones went on the Guilds say so, but they wasn't much chop ifn ye was ter ask me."

" As such, I cannae give ye much in the way o' gear right now. I can give ye this writ though. It entitles ye to council rates on whatever ye wish to purchase while ye're on the job. 20% off the asking price is not so bad ye ken."

Also, ifn' ye go to the Temple of Brigh and tell Joram Kyte that we sent ye, he'll see to it that ye can get through the watery entrance to the place with enough spell time to do some explorin' and get back top side too."

She smiled at the party, drawing a bit more strength as she spoke, feeling confidence in the plans the council had come up with in the last day or two.

"I'll tell ye what Konnir told us about his first trip. His group found a few types of enormous verminous critters and other types of scavengers. They also came across a group of Humanoids as could blend into the shadows of the cave walls. Worst was a nest of Gremlins. Khonnir felt that the place must have had some type of entrance into the ground systems deeper below Torch, and they could creep into the place freely. The fact the entrance is flooded and underneath the Weeping Pond is probably the only reason the dmanable things haven't come up ter town before now."

She leaned in then, her voice dropping slighlty as if sharing a secret. " The thing that had Khonnir most excited though, was the wall." She the last with a slight exageration, making it a noun of some stature rather than just a label. " It were made of a skymetal alloy we call Glaucite. It's the same stuff we find deposits of around the country side, and the stuff we smelt down to starmetal and adamantine. A whole wall of the stuff, with two doors set in it. That's where he found the automaton he brought back up. The group had to come back surface side by then though, as they weren't prepared for such a big system"

"He told me afore he put together his second team that he planned on goin' through them doors this time and find what caused the flame ter go out."

The old dwarf leaned back on the stone chair, her joints groaning with age. "Ye know as much as any one does now, more than some as went in there too."

Her gaze had drifted into a sort of far off dreamy state while she was telling the tale, but now they snapped back into the present and she was all business. "Ye may have heard the council has offered a 4000gold reward for bringing back Khonnir's body if hes dead. We procurred a scroll that can bring him back to us, gods willing. Ifn ye find him alive, then the scrolls yours for the asking too." She had begun to sort papers on her desk again, grabbing a quill and inlpot and scrawling her name across them.

"In firtherence to that, the Guild o' smiths has out up another bounty of 4000 gold if any group can get the flame relit."

She stopped signing, and handed each of the group a piece of velum with the councils seal and information giving them council buying rights.

"As fer me, I just want to see you all come back alive. Too many folks I'm close too have dived those waters these last weeks, and my fear is I won't see em again."

"Now, off ye go. Drop into see Khonnir's girl, Val. She's closed the tavern and foundry since her da's disapeared, but she's made an open offer to house anyone as goes looking for him there for free. Free use of the foundry too while you're on the job. I've got other stuff to attend now.....sadly."

Her head dropped back to the paperwork before her, the meeting had finished.

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

"Appreciate the help my friend. Don't let the paperwork get you down." Norman says, looking then to the others.

"Where to next friends? Shall we make a pit stop by the Foundry and set up shop there? My cottage is depressingly small and cluttered to boot." Norm half-grins, embarrassed by the state of his shoddy homestead.

"From there we can decide to check the summit of the flame or delve into the search. A door of adamantine? Can you imagine? If I could harvest any of that material I'd save quite a bit on material costs for my projects. I'm intrigued." the lithe hunter rubs his well groomed beard, lost in thought.


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

Alyna thanks the elderly dwarf as she places the writ into her belt pouch.
"I think it wise to check on Councilor Baine's daughter. She may have some more information we can use," she says, glancing at her companions.
She then focuses her gaze upon her Kellid companion. "Lady Bitha, shall we investigate this automaton? We both seem to have a vested interest in it's presence here in Torch."


Female Human Barbarian (Numerian Liberator) 2 | AC 15/11/14 | HP 28/28 (32/32 while Raging) | F+5, R+1, W+2 | +2 morale bonus on saving throws made to resist spells, supernatural abilities, and spell-like abilities. Init.+1 | Percept.+6 | Sense Motive +1 | 8/8 Rage rounds today

"I thought you'd never ask, Alyna! We need to figure out what it is, and what its plans are. And if there are more of them waiting under there for us."

She tuns to Dolga and asks one quick question before turning to leave. "The watery entrance...if we have to come out of the area through it for any reason, is there any chance that Joram Kyte could help us get through on multiple occasions? If the place is crawling with enemies, it might take time to wear them out!"


Dolga glanced at the young Kellid and nodded "Aye, a good question to ask. I dinnae have the kenning o' magic all too well, but so far he seems to have been able to cast his spells a number o' times. Uses one o' his goddesses wands to make the things last longer, or so he told me. Ye'll be more than fine in that regards Britha."

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

"A tremendous boon indeed. We'll have to pay a visit to the temple before we take a swim. Many thanks."" Norm says matter o'factly.


Female Android Summoner 2, HP 16/16, AC 14 Fort 0 Ref 2 Will 3, Init +2

Zlota nods and looks to the other woman and nods. "We can examine the automaton if it's readily available. But I agree that we should go see this 'Val' as she may have more information on what is occurring than the four of us combined. Possibly."

She looks back at the councildwarf and bows slightly. "Thank you for your assistance, Madame Freddert."


Female Human Barbarian (Numerian Liberator) 2 | AC 15/11/14 | HP 28/28 (32/32 while Raging) | F+5, R+1, W+2 | +2 morale bonus on saving throws made to resist spells, supernatural abilities, and spell-like abilities. Init.+1 | Percept.+6 | Sense Motive +1 | 8/8 Rage rounds today

"That means we will have to make quick, precise strikes when we go under the mountain. We have to have time to get back out before the spell expires, if we can't find another exit. Last thing we need is to be trapped with all those....machines," Bitha nods at the dwarf.

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

Norm nods, "Off to the Foundry to check with Val." he says, adjusting his musket strap and turning to leave.


The group collected their writs and left the stout building. Heading west, they crossed the Crowfeather stream and followed the main road into the market square. Despite the hardships from the last two weeks, the Market was still a thriving business centre. Artisans and merchants of all kinds set up stalls here, selling their wares to both locals and visitors alike. The place was thronging with people and hawkers at this time of day, and walking through it took a few minutes.

The market road eventually took them out of the throng, and into the quieter streets heading west. This side of black peak received more water from the rains and the overflow from the Crowfether lake itself. As such, the streets were lined with trees and even small farmsteads had been established in the area. It was a for more pleasant walk than the Eastern slopes provided.

AS they approached the Foundry Inn, a woman's scream pierced the air. People stopped and stared at each other for a moment, then another noise broke silence.

Grinding metal and a piercing voice echoed through the morning air, followed by the crunch of crushing stone. The woman's scream sounded again, and there was no denying it was coming from Khonnir Bane's house.

for those who speak Androffan

Spoiler:
The piercing voice sounds robotic, as if coming through a mechanical voice box. While the words sound like Androffan, they are garbled and nonsensical, as if whatever is speaking has forgotten how to form true sentences.

This is going to run in combat time. While this event may end up getting resolved outside of combat like actions, it may also turn violent. Your group acts first, then whatever the opponent is

You are currently 40 feet from the main door of Khonnir's residence. There are also two windows you can see on this side of the building, but you cannot see anything going on in the rooms they open into. There are other bu9ildings nearby, and about a dozen other townsfolk nearby. They all look startled, but some seem willing to rush in and check what's going on. None of those seem as capable or well armed as you four though.

Norm,

Spoiler:
You know from your time as Khonnir's friend that there is a back door to the home, between the tavern and the house itself. It would take 3 move actions to get their and open the door from your current position. Assuming its unlocked.

No map for this first one. Just describe your general actions and intent to start with, until you find the cause of the problem. It's a small encounter area so a map is going to be more work than is needed.


Female Human Barbarian (Numerian Liberator) 2 | AC 15/11/14 | HP 28/28 (32/32 while Raging) | F+5, R+1, W+2 | +2 morale bonus on saving throws made to resist spells, supernatural abilities, and spell-like abilities. Init.+1 | Percept.+6 | Sense Motive +1 | 8/8 Rage rounds today

Bitha sprints for the front door, anxious to see what was causing the disturbance. "Help is on the way.," she bellows as she draws her sword.

I used the word 'sprint' even though I can't run and draw my weapon. Bitha will make a double move.

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

Drawn weapon and Run to front door if the scream sounds close it's probably coming from close to that entrance. I'll move as far into the room as my run allows

Norman Guff dashes towards the tavern at break-neck speed, musket in hand. A look of deep concern furrows his brow. "Val! N'uncle Norm's a comin' Val! Hang on darlin'!

Norm assumes it's Val, a girl's scream from the home of Khonnir and Val. Eek.


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

Alyna attempts to keep pace with her companions, her armored coat clearly causing her to fall behind.
"Whatever is making that noise is trying to speak, however I cannot make out what it is saying," she informs her companions as she draws her light hammer as a precaution.

Double move (her speed is 20 ft. with the armored coat). Move (hustle?) and Draw Weapon. However many feet this gets me.. heh.


Female Android Summoner 2, HP 16/16, AC 14 Fort 0 Ref 2 Will 3, Init +2

Sorry, busy day. Catching up now.

Zlota looks ahead at the Foundry Inn as the scream pierces the air and sees Norm and the others approaching it now much faster. Shrugging, She quickly follows, hoping that nothing foul was about to occur.

Zlota and Ksila double move closer, trying to stay close to Norm since he showed the most emotion and therefore the least control of reason and logic in the situation.


Bitha was the first to react to the noise. The young Kellid woman rushed to the house and all but burst the front door open. It hadn't been locked, so the shoulder she put into it had slammed the door into the wall of the common room and staggered her a little.

Her companions came in to the house behind her, all of them ready for the worst. The androids seemed a little surprised by the rush that the two humans had made though.

The room they entered was brightly lit, a few of the famous everglowing lights were attached to the walls in here. The window looking out into the street also let sunlight in, but it was muted from built up dust and ash. This was clearly the main room of the small abode, big enough to comfortably hold 5 or six people around the wooden table that dominated the room. Two smaller comfort chairs sat in each corner, bracing the window itself.

A single corridor led out of the room, the door open. Even as they watched, the party saw a metallic creature of some sort burst through another door at the far end of this corridor. It stood about five feet in height, its body made from a grey white metal overlaid upon a chassis of polished metal and wires. Three legs supported it, though somewhat unsteadily. They looked for all the world like the legs of some great spider, though metallic rather than chitinous.

Above the armoured torso, a single head swivelled to look at the party. Blue lights gleamed from this structure, one main lense surrounded by three or four others. As it pivoted, two of the lenses flickered and failed momentarily.

It lurched down the corridor, is gait uneven and every movement accompanied by the sounds of grinding metal and gears.

#$%$$$%@#% %^&&&%$# &^&%%&?. The sounds burst forth from its head, the lights of its face flickering in time with the strangely monotone voice. Again it sounded like Androffan, but garbled and unintelligible.

A voice called from the room behind the creature
"Be careful whoever you are, the things trying to tear the house down around us!" Norm recognised it as Val, though he'd never heard the girl sound so frightened.

Over to you guys. The room your in is 10 foot wide and 15 feet long. The corridor is only one person abreast and the creature is ten feet down that. It hasn't made any hostile move towards you yet, but it does seem to be causing some damage to the stone and wood structure of the house. It is definitely not in total control of itself it would seem. The order you post is the order of your actions, just to make it easy for you. That allows you to act according to how the others have done before you.


Female Human Barbarian (Numerian Liberator) 2 | AC 15/11/14 | HP 28/28 (32/32 while Raging) | F+5, R+1, W+2 | +2 morale bonus on saving throws made to resist spells, supernatural abilities, and spell-like abilities. Init.+1 | Percept.+6 | Sense Motive +1 | 8/8 Rage rounds today

Im going to hold off on Bitha's action, as the group might have another way to deal with the creature. Other than Bitha's way, I mean.


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

A flicker sparks in Alyna's eyes as she spots the automaton, her facial expression showing... excitement.

"A working robot!" she says uncharacteristically. "Please do not destroy it if possible!"

Alyna blinks and shakes her head, the spark gone from her eyes.

"I apologize... I do not know what came over me," she says to her companions with a blank look on her face. "I do desire to examine the automaton undamaged if at all possible."

Alyna then attempts to examine the automaton and its actions from a safe distance.


forgot to add that knowledge checks might be good here. Engineering specifically.


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

yea. Meant to put one.. Doh. Sorry. Writing this from my phone.. hard to do text formats. Should I do the know roll now then since that would constitute examining?


Female Android Summoner 2, HP 16/16, AC 14 Fort 0 Ref 2 Will 3, Init +2

Zlota is surprised to see the automaton before them. She steps to the side slowly, as non-threateningly as possible. "Mesedez bateratzen makina. Neska egiaztatzeko bakarrik behar."

Androffan:
"Stand aside, automaton. We only need to check on the girl."

Should I roll a diplomacy check or something?


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

Just in case, I'm going to roll the Knowledge check for her 'examination.'

Knowledge(Engineering): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (10) + 5 = 15

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

Norm levels Lilly at the automaton - ready to gently squeeze the trigger if the thing attacks or menaces the girl or anyone else, no hesitation.

"What's going on Val, it's me, Norm. Everyone else is a friend also. Is this creature trying to harm you?"

Readied Attack:

Readied Action fire, Precise Shot, Point Blank: 1d20 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 6 + 1 = 21
Musket Damage, Point Blank: 1d12 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7
Move Action Reload.


Female Human Barbarian (Numerian Liberator) 2 | AC 15/11/14 | HP 28/28 (32/32 while Raging) | F+5, R+1, W+2 | +2 morale bonus on saving throws made to resist spells, supernatural abilities, and spell-like abilities. Init.+1 | Percept.+6 | Sense Motive +1 | 8/8 Rage rounds today

Bitha warily approaches the construct. "So the ancestors were right! Metal creatures do walk the ground. Move again, and I'll run you through, fell beast," she warns the monster, as she approaches with sword in hand.


Female Android Summoner 2, HP 16/16, AC 14 Fort 0 Ref 2 Will 3, Init +2

Zlota turns to Alyna and shakes her head. "Ez bada, kontuz ibili suntsitu egingo dira."

Androffan:
"It will be destroyed if we're not careful."

"Calm yourself, everyone. It neither rushes nor retreats, but our actions may provoke it..."


Alyna, knowledge check results.

Spoiler:
This is clearly a type of clock work automaton. It would have similar properties to many of the standard constructs that are created magically in this world (construct traits).The way it is scanning the room and the fact it has four fingered hands capable of complex manipulation means it's most likely a maintenance and repair construct of some type. (Repair Drone subtype)

It is also clear that it is badly damaged. Parts of its main chassis and circuitry have been exposed, making it vulnerable to physical damage (Weakness - subject to critical hits). It's system is also clearly malfunctioning. It's language is incoherent, and it seems to be repeating the same phrase over and over again. If it's one thing you know about these types of clockworks, when they're damaged like this, they are unpredictable and dangerous

The metallic beast repeated its garbled message again, eyes moving over the group and locking on to Norm at the back of the party. The central lens flared when it looked at the man, and its posture changed noticeably. It swung its body ponderously in his direction, intent on reaching him for some reason. Metal hands reached out to move Bitha out of the road, but it didn't seem to know its own strength. What would have been a gentle push from any humanoid was close to a shattering blow from this thing.

Attack (sort of): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 61d4 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5 Miss.

The arm of the construct swung past Bitha's head, crunching into the wall beside her and cracking the stonework there. It's face, previously focused only on Norm, swung ominously around to face Bitha. !@@@#$#$ #$#$%$ !@!@#!#$ it screamed at her, both arms raised.

A boom sounded from the back of the room as Lily thundered to life in Norm's hands. The musket ball flew past his companions and stuck the creature in an exposed section of its body. There was a shower of sparks and green fluid spurted from some ruptured piping. It staggered momentarily, its legs wavering even more after the impact, but still capable of causing damage.

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

"Good Gods, it's gone berserk." Norm says in awe as he takes another shot at the artifact-sprung-to-life!

Firing and reloading are my standard + move action. Point Blank Shot. Also, vs touch AC within 40.

Perception, looking to check on Val: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9

Bang: 1d20 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 6 + 1 = 13
Damage: 1d12 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13

"Bring it down before it takes the whole blasted bar apart!" the grizzled marksman growls, his eyes darting around trying to find Val.


Female Human Barbarian (Numerian Liberator) 2 | AC 15/11/14 | HP 28/28 (32/32 while Raging) | F+5, R+1, W+2 | +2 morale bonus on saving throws made to resist spells, supernatural abilities, and spell-like abilities. Init.+1 | Percept.+6 | Sense Motive +1 | 8/8 Rage rounds today

"Evil robot can't be trusted! We have to destroy it," Bitha yells, all her preconceived notions being crystallized by the machine's aggressive action toward her. She swings her Greatsword, trying to tear through the circuitry and exposed wires presenting themselves.

Attack 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7

Damage 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (5, 6) + 5 = 16


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

After recognizing some features of the automaton and the condition it is in, realization dawns on her that it is impossible to study the machine without first disabling it... permanently.
"There is no point in trying to salvage the automaton. In its current state it cannot be dealt with in any form but force. Drop it hard and drop it fast is the best course of action," she says to the group, Bitha more specifically.

She then readies her shield and prepares to aid in healing if need be.


Bitha swung her great sword, but the confines of the hallway hampered her attacks and she missed the machine. Norm was luckier.

Again Lily spoke her words of anger, and another round smashed into the machine. It staggered backwards again, its legs buckling under its own weight as the internal working gave way. There was a low droning whine, a few hisses and then the machine fell to the floor motionless. A few seconds later the last flickering light of its blue lenses faded to darkness.

They had put it down it seemed.

After a moment where everyone stood looking at the automaton to see if was going to get back up, a small face peered around the corner from where the machine had come. "Is it safe Norm?" Val asked curiously.

She was a young Kellid woman, of maybe sixteen summers. Her face held two red tribal tattoos down each cheek, and the freckles on her face told of her time in the sunlight during her youth. She didn't look frightened, more apologetic than anything else.

"Sorry folks, I don't how come it started up. One minute I was shifting boxes in Pa's shelves, the next that thing started yelling at me in some weird lingo. Is everyone alright?"

Combat is over. We are now in free roleplay time :)

Grand Lodge

Male Human 1 Musket Master/Techslinger|HP 11|AC17/13/14|Speed 30|F3 R6 W3|Init 6|Perception 5|Acrobatics 7|Climb 4|Disable Device 9(11 vs Locks. 10 vs Tech)|Know Local 6|Survival 6|+6 to Attack with 'Lilly' (+7 PBS 30ft) 1d12(+1 PBS 30ft), x4 Crit|Grit 2

Norman crosses the room, his external expression one of calm concern, trying to steady his emotions seeing the girl's safety.

"Are you ok Val? We just went to see Dolger, I - We," he corrects himself as he waves at the others to come closer, "We are going to go find Khonnir. Is there anything you can remember, think hard Val, anything at all that might help us in finding your dad?" Norm says, putting a hand on the young Kellid's shoulder.

"What is that thing we just broke? I don't think I recall seeing that last time I was over." the slim hunter says, re-shouldering his musket as he casts a wary look at the wrecked automation.

Looking back at the young Kellid,"Dolger said we should set up a base of operations here. Is that good with you?" he grins, mock-asking the feisty youth her permission and giving her shoulder a firm squeeze.

As an afterthought he looks back at the wrecked heap. "Any more of those stashed in the Foundry by the way?"Norm asks, arching an eyebrow.


Female Android Cleric of Brigh 2 (Iron Priest), HP 15/15 AC 14 (13 without armored coat) ; Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +5; Init -1; Channel Energy 1d6 - 4/day (4 left)

Alyna crosses over to the downed automaton. As she passes the young Kellid girl, she does a cursory check to see if she is injured in any way.

Heal: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8

Ouch. Guess that fits for a 'cursory glance.'

Kneeling beside the broken robot, she begins to extract as much information as she can about the construct-strengths, weaknesses, etc.-as well as if there is anything salvageable from the wreckage.

Take 20 check:Knowledge(Engineering): 20 + 5 = 25

Upon hearing Norm's final question, she perks up herself. "Yes, please let us know. Another-less damaged-automaton would be very beneficial to my studies."

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