Mantisbane Pact with GM Zek

Game Master Zektolna

Maps

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Talia's Journal


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Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

Vorya shook his head. Enough was enough. Killing goblins out of hand was one thing, but a man? Putting his glaive on his back, the old assassian jumps in front of the pleading man and puts his arms out tot he group.

'Stop! Enough of this!" Vorya shouts. "He threw down his weapons. That at least earns him a chance to talk and explain himself before we cut him down."


Human Sorcerer 10 | HP 29 / 52 AC 19 (Mage Armor) T14 FF16 | CMB + 4 CMD 18 | F +7 R +9 W +12 | init +7 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Appraise +12 Bluff +18 Diplomacy +15 Kn:Arcarna +15 Kn:Geography +15 Kn:Planes +15 Perception +21 Spellcraft +16 Stealth +7 Prof:Sailor +8 Prof:Soilder +7

Talivar's eyes narrowed as they flicked to Vorya and back to the man, "Very well." Looking skeptical he glared at the man, demanding,"Explain yourself! How did this happen?"


Elf Bloodrager 10| HP 108/108 | AC27 T15 FF24 | DR 2/- | CMD 29 | F+11 R+7 W+5* | Init +3 | Perc +15 | Spell slots 1st: 2/3 2nd: 2/2 3rd: 2/2 Active buffs: THP: 0; keen edge, shield
Rage:
24/24 rounds | HP 128/128 | AC 25 T13 FF22 | CMD 29 | F+13 R+7 W+7* | Init +3 | Perc +15

Uruelleth stays his blade, but not because of Vorya's words. Even at the height of his power as Urug'dash, he refused to kill those who three down their arms. While too many orcs in Belkzen would continue the slaughter until no one was left except those wearing the same colors, he would leave the noncombatants alive. So they could make more warriors to fight, he would say with a fierce smile whenever questioned.

He snaps out of his momentary reverie and holds his blood and gore-stained sword pointed at the man's throat. "Lie to us, try to deceive us, you'll get worse than that goblin," he says calmly.


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

Kilarra scoffs at Vorya and shakes her head, clearly displeased.

"Get him into the jungle then," she orders, "Before the smoke clears."

With a glare at the nameless man, Kilarra growls, "One wrong move and I kill you."

Kilarra quickly scoops up the sawtooth sabre and looks around for anything else useful she can quickly and easily collect.

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

We’re officially out of initiative now.

The man nods in thanks to Vorya. He clears his throat and stares at Uruelleth’s sword for a moment before speaking. His hands remain outstretched to his sides as he does so.

“Monkey goblins occasionally try to raid the village and we’re normally able to repel them easily enough. Normally they only come four or five at a time. But there was an explosion this morning. It must have drawn them.

“Dozens descended on the town. We were overwhelmed. There were other defenders, but most were either captured or killed. The goblins are cowards at their core, so most tried to avoid me. And as you saw, once they did attack me, they tried to overwhelm me with numbers. If you hadn’t come when you did, they might have succeeded.

“I’m sorry to say that I saw some of your people get captured. At least, I assume they were your people. They looked like sailors. Some of them fought back, but there were too many goblins and their nets overwhelmed the sailors.

“Monkey goblins are slow with prisoners, though. They’re much faster in the jungle canopy. If we hurry, we may be able to catch up to them before they make it to Ganda-Uj. If they get there, your people are lost as are the captured villagers. Hundreds if not thousands of goblins live there.”

The man glances over at Kilarra and his blades that she scooped up. He says to her, “Please be careful with those. When I…” The man pauses as he glances back and forth between the five of you. If I gain your trust, I would like to be able to defend myself.

“My name is Lork, by the way. Lork Nezos. If you’re wanting to get to the jungle before the smoke clears, we’d better hurry. None of the villagers are Red Mantis, but you’re right to fear they might inform on you the next time the assassins stop by.”

The man, or Lork, as he claims, remains as motionless as he can, waiting for some signal to move into the jungle or perhaps some indication that his life is about to end. He still looks badly injured from the goblins and Kilarra and Talivar's attacks.

Going to give y’all another chance to make a Sense Motive Check since he’s claiming more stuff and you’re no longer somewhat distracted from combat.

DC 20 Sense Motive:
You believe the man is telling the truth. Or rather, he isn’t lying. There could be, and likely are, details he’s leaving out. But as far as the information he’s given you, you believe he isn't lying.

When Kilarra examines the area, the only things she sees that are immediately accessible are the slain monkey goblins' 12 kukris, 12 nets, and 12 hide shirts. I’m assuming Kilarra already collected both of the man’s sawtooth sabres, which are masterwork quality.


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

Vorya weighs in, "Those sailors are only here because of us. I think we should at least make an attempt to save them. Besides, any allies will be valuable in this place."


Human Sorcerer 10 | HP 29 / 52 AC 19 (Mage Armor) T14 FF16 | CMB + 4 CMD 18 | F +7 R +9 W +12 | init +7 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Appraise +12 Bluff +18 Diplomacy +15 Kn:Arcarna +15 Kn:Geography +15 Kn:Planes +15 Perception +21 Spellcraft +16 Stealth +7 Prof:Sailor +8 Prof:Soilder +7

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9
Sense Motive (Disadvantage): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 1 = 2

"That's quite a tall story..." Talivar didn't believe it, turning to the others he said, "I reckon he's lying although it's easy enough to check this up. If any of the crew did make it alive we owe it to them to mount a rescue."


Elf Bloodrager 10| HP 108/108 | AC27 T15 FF24 | DR 2/- | CMD 29 | F+11 R+7 W+5* | Init +3 | Perc +15 | Spell slots 1st: 2/3 2nd: 2/2 3rd: 2/2 Active buffs: THP: 0; keen edge, shield
Rage:
24/24 rounds | HP 128/128 | AC 25 T13 FF22 | CMD 29 | F+13 R+7 W+7* | Init +3 | Perc +15

SM: 1d20 ⇒ 17

Uruelleth just frowns.


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

Taking the sawtooth sabers and four nets, and putting them all in her handy haversack.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 8 + 1 = 17

Kilarra scoffs, but doesn't argue with Vorya.

To Lork she says, "Don't hold your breath. Your sooner to get a knife to the heart than a knife in your hand."


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

Talia, please feel free to still roll a sense motive check in your next post.

You manage to get into the jungle easily enough before the smoke clears and the villagers could spot your retreat. Only a few feet into the jungle, you can already tell that there are dozens of tracks on the ground, some small-sized, some medium-sized, and perhaps even tracks not belonging to humanoids.

Lork, for his part, is careful to only move when instructed and in the exact manner he’s told to. Once in the jungle, he says, “Uh, are we going to follow the tracks? We can’t just stand around if we’re going to catch up to them. Ganda-Uj is still over a day’s journey away, but we need to cover some ground today if we’re going to catch up to them before they get there.”

The man sighs and adds, “We’re also not likely to catch up to them in time if you insist on having a blade trained on me at all times. We need to be fleet-footed to catch them.”

It’s currently around noon.

DC 15 Knowledge (geography):
You believe Lork was accurate when he said Ganda-Uj is still over a day’s journey away based on what you’ve learned so far and your knowledge of the island’s geography. He’s also likely accurate about needing to cover some ground today if you plan to catch up to them before they reach Ganda-Uj.

DC 15 Survival:
You’re fairly confident you’ll be able to follow the humanoid tracks as both the small and medium-sized ones seem to go in the same direction.

DC 20 Survival:
In addition to small and medium-sized humanoid tracks, you also notice some medium-sized tracks that likely belong to some type of animal with two legs. They seem to be heading in the same direction as the humanoid tracks.


Female Aasimar Shaman 10 | HP 80/80| AC15 T11 FF14 | CMD 16 | F+7 R+6 W+14 | Init +5 | Perc +22 | Sense Motive +27

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8

Talia frowns, finding the mans statements truthful, but her history of the Red Mantis easily pretending to be something innocent still making her slightly paranoid. "I detect that you are telling the truth, but that doesn't mean we should trust you anymore. You haven't addressed everything and until you do to my satisfaction, I'm not letting you near a weapon. Fortunately, we have the time to learn more about you while on this trek. Come morning I'll have the ability to prepare some mind reading, charm, and truth detection spells and at that stage it should be sufficient to see if you are exactly what you say you are. Of course, I wouldn't expect you to resist my spell-casting - its not as if you have anything to hide right?"

I'm not really bluffing this even though its something Talia doesn't /really/ want to do. She's mentioning it more to see how he reacts at the possibility of being magically probed.


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

Survival: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24

Vorya leans down and examines the tracks.

'Should be easy enough to follow. Humans and goblins, looks like, traveling in the same direction. There are others here....some other two-legged animals tracks. I don't recognize them, but they are headed the same way."

The inquisitor looks at Talia and then adds, "Yes, but we don't have time for that now. We have to extend some measure of trust."


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

Knowledge Geography: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (10) + 4 = 14
Survival to track: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

"I didn't kill him. That's more trust than he deserves until she pries through his head." Kilarra replies to Vorya with a nod at Talia.

She examines the tracks alongside Vorya. "Agreed. The trail is clear. Let's get moving."

Following the trail. Kilarra either goes first or right behind Vorya.


Elf Bloodrager 10| HP 108/108 | AC27 T15 FF24 | DR 2/- | CMD 29 | F+11 R+7 W+5* | Init +3 | Perc +15 | Spell slots 1st: 2/3 2nd: 2/2 3rd: 2/2 Active buffs: THP: 0; keen edge, shield
Rage:
24/24 rounds | HP 128/128 | AC 25 T13 FF22 | CMD 29 | F+13 R+7 W+7* | Init +3 | Perc +15

Survival: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21

Uruelleth nods in approval, the others seeing the same signs of their quarry as he had. He begins moving along with the others at a steady pace, but never letting Nezos fall behind him.


Human Sorcerer 10 | HP 29 / 52 AC 19 (Mage Armor) T14 FF16 | CMB + 4 CMD 18 | F +7 R +9 W +12 | init +7 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Appraise +12 Bluff +18 Diplomacy +15 Kn:Arcarna +15 Kn:Geography +15 Kn:Planes +15 Perception +21 Spellcraft +16 Stealth +7 Prof:Sailor +8 Prof:Soilder +7

Kn: Geography: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (10) + 9 = 19
Talivar jogged along with the others as they followed the tracks, considering were they were going. Thinking back to the charts he'd studied on the boat, he did some mental arithmetic and sighed, "Gonna be a hard slog today folks. He's right this Ganda-Uj is still over a day away and we need to push it if there's any chance of intercepting them..."

I guess that means we hustle with the corresponding fatigue checks.


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

Added a picture of Lork to the info slides.

Lork replies to Talia, “It’s not as though I have much choice, right?”

Before anyone has a chance to speak, he quickly adds, “But I’m happy to submit to your spells, if it’ll make you trust me. I assure you I’m not with the Red Mantis. I killed the one who was stationed in Cuttle. That’s why I have… had… those blades.”

When Vorya mentions tracks made by a two-legged animal, Lork perks up and says, “Spikespurs. Dinosaur riders. They’re one of the monkey goblin tribes on Mediogalti Island. If they were involved in the kidnappings, our task just got a lot harder.”

DC 20 Knowledge (local):
There is indeed a tribe of monkey goblins on Mediogalti Island known as the Spikespur tribe. They’re known for riding dinosaurs and are likely the closest thing the goblins have to hunters and druids.

-----

This will be my first time using the overland movement rules, so if I get something horribly wrong, please let me know. I would recommend everyone review the movement rules section of the prd which can be found here.

Taking into account that at full HP, 22 is the lowest max hp among you, you would be able to hustle for a total of 5 hours before needing rest due to the non-lethal damage. Normally, you would be able to travel 6 miles an hour while hustling since all of you have a base movement speed of 30 ft. However, since you’re just following a trail and not on a full highway, you’ll be moving and x3/4 speed, so you’ll only be able to travel 4.5 miles per hour. You’re also going to be a bit slower if you plan on keeping an eye on Lork at all times. So if you go 5 hours without stopping, you’ll be able to make it around 20 miles today. I believe actual fatigue checks would only be needed if you were doing a forced march.

Kilarra and Vorya lead the way with Uruelleth close behind. Talia and Talivar stay toward the rear of the group. Lork makes sure he’s always easy to keep track of.

For the remainder of the day, you push hard through Mediogalti’s jungles. The further in you go the thicker the trees and vines become. A small creek to one side of the tracks you’re following provides water to keep you from getting too dehydrated by the trek.

Finally, a little after 5 o’clock, you’re forced to come to a halt for the day. You’ve made quite a bit of progress and are fairly confident you’ve closed much of the distance between you and goblins. Assuming no significant delays, you believe you’ll catch up to the goblins sometime tomorrow.

You all feel fatigued from the journey and have suffered some harm from the trek through the jungle, but you’re confident with some sleep that you’ll be able to recover and be ready for the final push tomorrow.

Additionally, you realize that, despite nearly dying and failing to reach Ilizmagorti yet, your resolve to defeat the Red Mantis and kill Achaekek has increased and you’re one step closer to doing so.

You have reached level 5! Congratulations! I’ll be posting something about leveling up in the discussion thread in a bit.

Let me know if you want to do anything else before you sleep. You could try to keep going, if you want to, but you’ll risk passing out from non-lethal damage and/or not get a full night’s rest.
If you want to interrogate and/or ask Lork more questions along the way or once you stop, please feel free to do so.


Human Sorcerer 10 | HP 29 / 52 AC 19 (Mage Armor) T14 FF16 | CMB + 4 CMD 18 | F +7 R +9 W +12 | init +7 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Appraise +12 Bluff +18 Diplomacy +15 Kn:Arcarna +15 Kn:Geography +15 Kn:Planes +15 Perception +21 Spellcraft +16 Stealth +7 Prof:Sailor +8 Prof:Soilder +7

What's the temperature and humidity like in the jungle?
Talivar wiped the sweat from his brow and inwardly cursed the pack he'd been carrying, which was digging into his back. At least he didn't have heavy swords and armour to carry...

"Do we rest here?" Talivar asked as he stared out into the Jungle, "We'll need to set watches in case of animals or worse."


Female Aasimar Shaman 10 | HP 80/80| AC15 T11 FF14 | CMD 16 | F+7 R+6 W+14 | Init +5 | Perc +22 | Sense Motive +27

"I would prefer we rest here, once we decide on what our plans might be tomorrow, so that I can select my magic accordingly. I have spells that would prevent us being so tired if we wanted to push this hard tomorrow, but if thats not required..." Talia shrugs casually.


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

Vorya is feeling his age. Maybe that elf could run forever, but the older man's knees hurt, his brow was crusted in dried sweat and his back was sore.

When everyone pauses he says, "It won't do us much good to catch up to them in this condition." He pauses, wheezes and goes on, "And what about our noble captive here? Do we take turns watching him?"


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

Knowledge Local: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (18) + 5 = 23

Kilarra nods at Lork's words. "Agreed. The Spikespurs are the closest thing that goblins have to rangers and druids. The little buggers could prove a complication. ...Plus riding dinosaurs is just bad-ass."

---

As the group pulls to a stop, Kilarra looks around at her companions.

F**k, she was tired! They had to rest. Damn...

"Fine," Kilarra growls, clearly out of breath and nursing a stitch in her side. "We'll camp here. And yes, we're definitely setting a watch and keeping an eye on him."

Kilarra shakes her head as if that should be obvious.

Survival to find a good campsite: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26

Once they arrive, Kilarra pulls out a comfy folding chair from her backpack and unfolds it, then she sits in it and rifles through her bag for anything else of use. She ends up pulling out a bedroll, trail rations, and her gear maintenance kit. She stuffs some food in her mouth, tossing a bit of rations to Lork, and tends to her swords--all six of them--followed by her daggers, which number four.

Who needs their sleep consecutively? Talivar and Talia? Kilarra's fine taking any watch during the night.


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

Stop being such a grouch, Kilarra. Clearly you need your beauty rest. Vorya sends to Kilara, as they being to settle down to camp.

"Dinosaurs, you say?" Vorya asks Lork, conversationally. "How big are they, exactly? Just so we know what we are dealing with here."


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

Kilarra scoffs aloud as she sharpens her blades, then smirks.

Maybe you do, old man, she thinks back.

When Lork replies to Vorya, Kilarra watches him carefully, curious if he's telling the truth.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 8 + 1 = 24


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

As terrible as many of you may look and feel, none of you look as bad as Lork. He still bears the marks of the battle with the goblins. He looks on the verge of passing out or worse by the time you stop.

When Vorya speaks of him, Lork says, “I would very much like a full night’s sleep after today. I’m perfectly fine with you tying me to a tree or something if it’ll help your feelings. I’m used to sleeping in odd places.”

The man pauses to catch his breath before continuing, “Do any of you have a method of healing? I’m afraid I won’t be much help… if you want my help… without some healing. It’ll take more than a full night’s sleep to recover, that’s for sure. And you’re going to need all the help you can get if you want to get your people back.”

When Vorya asks Lork about the dinosaurs, the man says, “Small, medium, large, perhaps even bigger. The ones they ride are medium-sized. They seem capable of handling large ones. Bigger ones than that are just rumored.”

Kilarra believes Lork is telling the truth. As far as she can tell, he genuinely wants to be helpful.

Also, Kilarra, I believe you’re up to a +2 bonus on your studied target checks now that you’re level 5.

If you’re all wanting to set up watches, we should probably establish a normal rotation, so when you need to do this in the future, you can just default to the same one. My suggestion would be to have Talia and Talivar be the first and last watches, respectively, so they get a full 8 hours. With Kilarra, Uruelleth, and Vorya in the middle. If you would prefer something else or want to discuss it further, I would suggest doing so ooc in the discussion thread.


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

'Bigger then large?" Vorya says mildly. 'That would be quite a sight. I've traveled much of the world, but I've never seen dinosaurs. I wonder how they'd look in a painting."

He trails off and looks to Talia, 'Any chance we can heal our captive here, without losing anything? He can't help if he keels over."

Can we fight a Sauropod dinosaur?


Human Sorcerer 10 | HP 29 / 52 AC 19 (Mage Armor) T14 FF16 | CMB + 4 CMD 18 | F +7 R +9 W +12 | init +7 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Appraise +12 Bluff +18 Diplomacy +15 Kn:Arcarna +15 Kn:Geography +15 Kn:Planes +15 Perception +21 Spellcraft +16 Stealth +7 Prof:Sailor +8 Prof:Soilder +7

Talivar studies Lork for a while before casually telling the others,
"I don't trust him, but we're responsible for him now. Vorya's right wounded like this he's a liability, we should tend to his wounds."

Turning back to Lork, Talivar tells him, "I'd like to hear the story of how you came by those blades. You claim the man who wielded them is no more, what happened to him?"


Elf Bloodrager 10| HP 108/108 | AC27 T15 FF24 | DR 2/- | CMD 29 | F+11 R+7 W+5* | Init +3 | Perc +15 | Spell slots 1st: 2/3 2nd: 2/2 3rd: 2/2 Active buffs: THP: 0; keen edge, shield
Rage:
24/24 rounds | HP 128/128 | AC 25 T13 FF22 | CMD 29 | F+13 R+7 W+7* | Init +3 | Perc +15

Uruelleth is only lightly winded from the brisk pace. He keeps a sharp eye on Lork and gives him a sour look when the man insists they'll need help freeing the other sailors from the goblins. "For someone who isn't supposed to know us, you seem to know a lot about what we need. The only things we need are reasons not to kill you."

He leans forward. "And you are not giving us much so far."

He backs away when the others talk about healing Lork's wounds, wanting no part of it.

@Vorya: We can fight anything. The question becomes whether we can win that fight.


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

@ GM: Yeah, but I hadn't levelled up at the time I made that post above.

Despite Lork's apparent honesty, Kilarra seems equally displeased at the thought of healing him. She continues sharpening her blades with a scoff.

Do we get to heal with our level up? Or just gain our new hp?


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

Over the next few days, Mellisar and I spoke at length about our encounter and how he had arrived there himself. It turns out that he had been searching for the assassins in secret. As foolish as he may have been, I can’t help but see the nobleness of his deed. He said he didn’t want to burden me with the situation.

Well, I am most definitely burdened with it now. But that isn’t his fault. The fault lies with the assassins themselves. I plan to set a trap for them. One that, if all goes according to plan, may finally put us on the offensive against the Red Mantis.

From the journal of Queen Telandia Edasseril of Kyonin
Dated the 6th of Pharast, 4710 AR

-----

Be careful what you wish for, Vorya, it just might happen someday. Also, what Uruelleth said.

Kilarra, you get your new hp in health, but would still be missing 2 hp. I’m assuming you’ll all be back at full health tomorrow… assuming you get a full night’s rest.

When no one immediately extends a healing touch to Lork, the man looks toward Talia instinctively. His eyes say more than his words ever could. He’s desperate for healing. Lork would likely have perished if the five of you hadn’t shown up when you did.

Despite his lack of healing, he does give a thankful nod toward Vorya and Talivar for acknowledging his need for aid.

At Talivar’s question, Lork says, “It is a long story. One I’m not sure I could tell in one sitting.”

Lork pauses to glance over at Uruelleth and at Kilarra as she sharpens her blades. "But perhaps I can tell the abridged version, at least."

He leans back against a jungle tree and rests his head against the trunk. He closes his eyes and continues, “It was two years ago when I first came to Cuttle. It was just a simple village primarily used as a rest stop for whalers. It was exceedingly peaceful compared to Ilizmagorti.

“Of course, like anything on Mediogalti Island, you can’t trust anything you see. Below the surface, it was clear that the village’s elders lived in constant fear. In public, they acted like they were in control, but to anyone who was even half paying attention, it was clear that they were no more than figureheads. The Red Mantis were really in-charge.

“Cuttle’s elders did everything they could to stay in-charge of the village’s day-to-day affairs. They kissed the ground the Red Mantis walked on and basically worshipped them. Despite their adoration, no less than three of them met swift ends at the hands of the Mantis in my first year there.

“Something had to be done. I knew I could never stand up against a full Red Mantis assassin. It just wasn’t possible. So I did the only thing I could, something some might consider cowardly. I found out where the assassin stationed at the village slept. I studied his patterns till they were second nature to me.

“Three months ago, I finally acted on my plan. When I was certain he was asleep, I crept into his room. I was barefoot to make sure I didn’t make a sound. Hovering over the man, I didn’t hesitate. I plunged a dagger into his throat. All he did was gurgle before he died. I gave him no chance.”

Lork opens his eyes and sits more upright. He stares straight at Talivar when says, “There can be no quarter when it comes to the Red Mantis. You can’t trust them. Any of them. That’s why I don’t blame you for distrusting me. But that’s what happened. I recovered his blades and his armor and have done my best to defend Cuttle ever since. It worked pretty well, till today, at least.”

To Uruelleth, Lork says, “I have skill in combat. You seem like someone who can respect that. If you ever decide to trust me, I can be a valuable ally. I want the same things you do. To kill the goblins and rescue the captives.”

DC 20 Sense Motive:
The man spoke truthfully. Though, as he acknowledged, it's clear he's telling the abridged version of the story. He seems to harbor a deep hatred for the Red Mantis that likely predates his time in Cuttle.


Female Aasimar Shaman 10 | HP 80/80| AC15 T11 FF14 | CMD 16 | F+7 R+6 W+14 | Init +5 | Perc +22 | Sense Motive +27

[ooc]Triggering Visualization of the Mind to turn SM into a class skill + add 5 ranks to it.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (5) + 15 = 20

Talia stares the man down, still irritated. "His secrets are his own, but if he won't play it straight with me, ie the only person that can heal him, then he isnt going to be getting much of my magic. When he feels like being more open, only then would I consider spending resources on him."

[ooc]Also, 99.999% sure I burned all my channels after the beach landing since there was a good chance of combat and I wanted us on max possible health. Also, it would have been mega awkward if we had all stood around in a circle watching Kilarra bite it instead of me burning a few channels to keep her breathing. Tempting maybe, but awkward.


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16

Vorya added in, "I don't think he is lying. Would you tell a group like us everything right off the bat? I certainly wouldn't, not after a look at Kilara or Uruelleth." Shaking his head, he goes on, 'But if we have no healing, we don't have any."


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

But Kilarra has such a sweet disposition and sparkling personality! Haha! I would not have been surprised if you didn't channel and someone had to shove one of Kilarra's potions down her throat. But, yeah, I checked and you used five.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18

Kilarra looks skeptical, but makes no comment on the man's tale.


Elf Bloodrager 10| HP 108/108 | AC27 T15 FF24 | DR 2/- | CMD 29 | F+11 R+7 W+5* | Init +3 | Perc +15 | Spell slots 1st: 2/3 2nd: 2/2 3rd: 2/2 Active buffs: THP: 0; keen edge, shield
Rage:
24/24 rounds | HP 128/128 | AC 25 T13 FF22 | CMD 29 | F+13 R+7 W+7* | Init +3 | Perc +15

SM: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 1 = 12
The man's admission to killing someone in his sleep did nothing to endear him to Uruelleth.

"We can kill goblins without him. So far, outside of his pretty little tale, he hasn't told us anything I hadn't already learned from the goblins on the beach," he tells Vorya.


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

Vorya raises an eyebrow, 'You would kill a man for admitting to killing a Red Mantis and surrendering to us?"


Elf Bloodrager 10| HP 108/108 | AC27 T15 FF24 | DR 2/- | CMD 29 | F+11 R+7 W+5* | Init +3 | Perc +15 | Spell slots 1st: 2/3 2nd: 2/2 3rd: 2/2 Active buffs: THP: 0; keen edge, shield
Rage:
24/24 rounds | HP 128/128 | AC 25 T13 FF22 | CMD 29 | F+13 R+7 W+7* | Init +3 | Perc +15

Uruelleth looks Vorya in the eye, deadly serious. "I would kill a man who admitted to slitting someone's throat in their sleep before I ever close my eyes in front of him."


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

Vorya is equally serious and says, "The man kills our foes and you begrudge him his method? What if he used a bow? Is that honorable enough? If and when we find the red Mantis, I will be praying to Sheyln they are asleep."

Then, going on, the older man adds, "I'm not saying we let him wander freely while we all slumber. The man is barely dead on his feet and will be watched. I think any of us, even Talivar, could take him in a fist fight right now."


Human Sorcerer 10 | HP 29 / 52 AC 19 (Mage Armor) T14 FF16 | CMB + 4 CMD 18 | F +7 R +9 W +12 | init +7 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Appraise +12 Bluff +18 Diplomacy +15 Kn:Arcarna +15 Kn:Geography +15 Kn:Planes +15 Perception +21 Spellcraft +16 Stealth +7 Prof:Sailor +8 Prof:Soilder +7

Talivar wasn't sure how he felt about this, and his eyes flicked between Lork, Uruelleth and Vorya.

Vorya wrote:
"I think any of us, even Talivar, could take him in a fist fight right now."

Talivar answered that with a snort, before adding, "If his story is true. If. Then he is to be congratulated for his ingenuity and watched closely forevermore."

Catching Uruelleth in the eye he added darkly, "Before this business is over the same will be said of us. I intend to slaughter them in cold blood."

Talivar is happy to take first watch. When it's his turn he will cast Heightened awareness with his metamagic rod to extend it.


Female Aasimar Shaman 10 | HP 80/80| AC15 T11 FF14 | CMD 16 | F+7 R+6 W+14 | Init +5 | Perc +22 | Sense Motive +27

Talia taps the backpack she has taken everywhere with her, letting a small bat fly out, stretching its wings slightly before hovering overhead. Perceptive observers would note that the bat has the stars and constellations reflected on it. "This is midnight, my spirit animal. Midnight likes the nighttime more than the daytime and can keep watch for us as well. With its special senses it should be able to prevent anything sneaking up on us."


Human Sorcerer 10 | HP 29 / 52 AC 19 (Mage Armor) T14 FF16 | CMB + 4 CMD 18 | F +7 R +9 W +12 | init +7 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Appraise +12 Bluff +18 Diplomacy +15 Kn:Arcarna +15 Kn:Geography +15 Kn:Planes +15 Perception +21 Spellcraft +16 Stealth +7 Prof:Sailor +8 Prof:Soilder +7

"Well that's pretty handy..." remarks Talivar, "Any other surprises we should know about?" He looks around meeting everyone's eye.


Elf Bloodrager 10| HP 108/108 | AC27 T15 FF24 | DR 2/- | CMD 29 | F+11 R+7 W+5* | Init +3 | Perc +15 | Spell slots 1st: 2/3 2nd: 2/2 3rd: 2/2 Active buffs: THP: 0; keen edge, shield
Rage:
24/24 rounds | HP 128/128 | AC 25 T13 FF22 | CMD 29 | F+13 R+7 W+7* | Init +3 | Perc +15

Uruelleth feels his lip curl. He missed the jagged, toothy maw of his gnoll's body.

After a moment's consideration, he pulls off a gauntlet from his right hand and rolls back the sleeve. His exposed skin sports a tattoo -- quite new, from the looks of the vibrant color in the inks. If is of a sword thrust into the side of a mountain, quite impressive in its artistry.

He lowers his voice, taking Talivar and Vorya far away from Lork. "If you haven't figured it out yet, I follow Gorum, the Lord in Iron. I don't give a bucket of Rovagug's piss about a Mantis getting slaughtered in his sleep. But me? If I die in bed, asleep and not putting up a fight? What do think that means to the god of battle?"


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

When Talivar asks for surprises Vorya says, 'I'm a worse painter then you could possibly imagine."

Later, huddled with Uruelleth and Talivar, Vorya looks at the inked tattoo. He nodded to the larger elf, knowing the power of religion in a man's life.

'A worthy, if demanding god. I doubt he and Sheyln have much in common." Then, getting back to the matters at hand, "I'm not suggesting we let him roam about while we sleep. I am merely arguing we don't kill him out of hand. we can give bind him, if it makes you feel better. We will keep watch, we have to do anyway. What does it costs us? And it may gain us much. Does not Gorum reward those who seize every advantage for a coming fight?"


Human Sorcerer 10 | HP 29 / 52 AC 19 (Mage Armor) T14 FF16 | CMB + 4 CMD 18 | F +7 R +9 W +12 | init +7 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Appraise +12 Bluff +18 Diplomacy +15 Kn:Arcarna +15 Kn:Geography +15 Kn:Planes +15 Perception +21 Spellcraft +16 Stealth +7 Prof:Sailor +8 Prof:Soilder +7

Talivar replies to Uruelleth with a feral grin as he leans back on a tree, "We'll just have to make sure that doesn't happen. I suggest you turn in soon, going to be a long slog tomorrow."

Talivar is with Vorya about not killing him btw, although I sorta think we all are or he'd be dead...


Elf Bloodrager 10| HP 108/108 | AC27 T15 FF24 | DR 2/- | CMD 29 | F+11 R+7 W+5* | Init +3 | Perc +15 | Spell slots 1st: 2/3 2nd: 2/2 3rd: 2/2 Active buffs: THP: 0; keen edge, shield
Rage:
24/24 rounds | HP 128/128 | AC 25 T13 FF22 | CMD 29 | F+13 R+7 W+7* | Init +3 | Perc +15

Shaking his head, Uruelleth scowls. "Don't try to manipulate me with what Gorum would want, old man. You're inviting a viper to sleep in everyone's beds. Just because it's weak and hurt doesn't mean it won't bite."


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

Kilarra raises an eyebrow at the discussion going on around her.

"Secrets?" she asks with a smirk. "More than you can imagine." She winks, but doesn't elaborate.

She laughs aloud at Vorya's comment about painting.

As the topic turns to the gods she scoffs. "You can tell your gods to mind their own business. Yours, his, and Achaekek." She grumbles and mutters to herself for a while after that, but doesn't comment any further.

Anyone listening closely to her muttering can hear her say:
"Stupid gods can kiss my a**."


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

Eventually, Kilarra takes Talivar's advice and rolls her bedroll out on the ground. She climbs in and lays down.

"Makes sure no one shanks me," she tells Talivar. "If I die in my sleep I'll haunt your a**."

Then she rolls over and goes to sleep.


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

Loving the great banter, folks! It’s really awesome as a GM when your players push the narrative forward for you. : )

Also, I just realized I forgot to answer your question about the temperature and humidity, Talivar. Sorry about that. I’m in the US, so my temperatures will all be in fahrenheit. It was mostly in the 80s during the day. At night, it’ll get down into the lower 60s. It’s quite humid, 70 to 80% typically and you would be drenched in sweat from even a short trek through the jungle.

Lork looks quite distraught when Talia indicates she won’t heal him.(He wouldn’t know that you’re out of channels for the day… or healing in general.)

He leans his head back against the tree trunk and says, “I can’t force you, of course, but if you won’t heal me, I won’t be able to help against the goblins in the fights that are certain to come. As much as I want to, I’m much more help to the villagers alive than dead. Please, just… just do what you can to rescue all the goblins’ captives, not just your own people.”

The man just listens to the other parts of the conversation he’s privy to. He looks worse than when you first stopped, but it’s possible part of that is mental anguish from the group’s response to him so far.

Before everyone settles in for the night, Lork allows himself to be bound to a tree trunk by Uruelleth, the strongest member of the party. He doesn’t resist, though judging by the looks of him, it’s doubtful whether he even could if he wanted to.

Talivar takes first watch, followed by Uruelleth, then Vorya, then Kilarra, then Talia so that everyone’s able to get a full night’s rest. Whenever you observe Lork, he always appears to be sleeping, or trying to, at least. Sleeping tied to a tree trunk is probably about as hard as it looks.

Everyone will be at full health the next day.

During the night, as each of you sleep, you are all visited one at a time by Queen Telandia in a dream. Those of you with spellcasting abilities would recognize this as dream council, the spell she said she would use to periodically communicate with you during your mission. (Quest… thing.)

In the dream, Queen Telandia addresses you each with the same message.

Greetings. The Quintumvirate have yet to decide what to do with our captured Vernai. We want an update on your progress. How goes the mission?”

You can each reply with a vague image (that doesn’t include words) or with a message that is up to 25 words long.

-----

Edit: Before I forget again...

Earlier...

When Uruelleth searched the bodies of the goblins on the beach, he found 1,000 gp and a signet ring, which likely belonged to Captain Fineas, that is worth 500 gp.


Female Aasimar Shaman 10 | HP 80/80| AC15 T11 FF14 | CMD 16 | F+7 R+6 W+14 | Init +5 | Perc +22 | Sense Motive +27

Talia, being used to handling magical messages, is well versed in shorthand used to handle such messages and relays the following message to Queen Telandia.

Mission Ongoing. Crew Infiltrated. Driara Vernai. Shipwrecked on Mediogalti with assistance from unknown person on The Hermitage. Crew Lost. Met Lork. Motives Unclear. Please Advise.


Female Human Slayer 10 | HP: 44/74 | AC 30* (T 16, FF 25*) (+2 vs. traps) | CMB: +13 CMD: 27 | F:+11* R:+14* W:+8* (+2 vs. divine, +2 vs. traps, +5 vs. continuing FX) | Init +4 | Perc +15*, SM +12, Bluff +12, Diplomacy +1, Intimidate +5 | Speed 30 ft. | Active Conditions: Barkskin, Shield, Resist Fire

Kilarra sighs in her sleep.

"Shi**y, as expected. We rooted out four Mantis spies before the First Mate blew the whole ship up. Treacherous bit**! Real trustworthy crew you picked.."

And then she's out of words.

As the queen fades Kilarra frowns.

That's it? What a stupid spell...

But then her real dreams return, and Kilarra's imaging plunging a blade through the heart of a smiling man with a mantis helmet. She smiles in her sleep...


Human Swashbuckler 3 | HP 12/23 | AC15 T15 FF10 | CMD 19 | F+2 R+8 W+2 | Init +6 | Perc +6|Panache 5/5

Talia, are you a telegram writer in real life? That was really concise and accurate

Before going to sleep, Vorya sends up a prayer that he isn't wrong about Lork and they won't be knifed in their sleep.

We are alive. There were Mantis agents on board and they blew up the ship. We washed up on the island. Currently trying to.. and the spell ends, Vorya confused. Mentally shrugging, he hopes someone else did a better job.

Shall I add that loot to the list?


Elf Bloodrager 10| HP 108/108 | AC27 T15 FF24 | DR 2/- | CMD 29 | F+11 R+7 W+5* | Init +3 | Perc +15 | Spell slots 1st: 2/3 2nd: 2/2 3rd: 2/2 Active buffs: THP: 0; keen edge, shield
Rage:
24/24 rounds | HP 128/128 | AC 25 T13 FF22 | CMD 29 | F+13 R+7 W+7* | Init +3 | Perc +15

Uruelleth lets his exhaustion take him and he drifts off to sleep, wondering if he'll ever wake.

Queen Telandia gets an image of the ship blowing up with the island in the background.

Yeah, you can add the loot to the list. It's not like I gathered it secretly.


Human Sorcerer 10 | HP 29 / 52 AC 19 (Mage Armor) T14 FF16 | CMB + 4 CMD 18 | F +7 R +9 W +12 | init +7 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Appraise +12 Bluff +18 Diplomacy +15 Kn:Arcarna +15 Kn:Geography +15 Kn:Planes +15 Perception +21 Spellcraft +16 Stealth +7 Prof:Sailor +8 Prof:Soilder +7

When it was his turn to sleep, Talivar slipped into a deep slumber. Initially it was dreamless but then he had a strong impression of watching their campsite as if from above looking down on Lork. Somehow Talivar was sure the queen would want to know of him and of their distrust.

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