Stirrings in the Deep

Game Master Zesdead

Paizo's The Emerald Spire'.

...in which our adventurers explore the Pleasure Gardens.

Party Health
Ea Zalinzel 92/92HP, 3 Hero Points, 1 Blessing of Pharasma
Yasmin al Akbar 74/74HP plus 2THP, 3 Hero Points, 1 Blessing of Nethys
Rallos Therinor 77/83HP, 3 Hero Points, 1 Blessing of Asmodeus
Titania Thrune 94/94HP, 2 Hero Points
Murassa Sonvar 66/66HP, 3 Hero Points

Maps
The Emerald Spire - Level 13
Cross Section of the Emerald Spire
Map of Fort Inevitable

Party Treasure


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”Very well… Aoz will stay with me this evening – it may be that I can discover more about DiViri’s demise from her familiar… and, if the information is strategically useful, then it would be preferable to be prepared for what else lies in the depths”, and then, moving towards a set of stairs that leads downwards, ”Come… old Reedbank is probably quite bored of my hospitality and I am not so blind that I cannot see what closure of the Julliver Arms has done to mood of the town”

…and so, heading down below the Citadel, the friends are led along a passageway with various heavy wooden doors leading from it – one of the doors is ajar and, in the torchlight, it is possible to see a small cell furnished with little more than manacles and a scattering of straw… the cell itself is unoccupied. The group pass more than twenty such doors before arriving at a better-lit section of passageway… here, the stone floor gives way to polished floor-boards and the doors, whilst still heavy, are more aesthetically agreeable, ”For our political prisoners… treat those who may, once more, become your friend as an asset to be nurtured”, the Lady Commander’s voice is cold and calculating…

Taking a key from a chain at her side, the Lady Commander unlocks one of the doors… revealing Dolliver Reedbank sat on a comfortable looking Chaise Longue whilst reading a leather-bound tome… looking up at the opened door, the Halfling smiles… not without warmth… at Druvost, ”Lady Commander? I had not thought to speak to you so soon”… and then, seeing the friends behind the Lady Commander, ”Oh?”

”Time for you to return home, Reedbank… the town would benefit from the Julliver re-opening… and, whilst I have enjoyed our conversations, there is little more that you could tell me that I do not already know”, Druvost gestures towards the friends, ”My charges will ensure that you get home safely”. The Lady Commander turns to Yasmin, ”You will return to the Citadel before you travel to the Spire”, as she turns and strides away, it is unclear as to whether that was a statement or a request…

…setting down his book, Dolliver Reedbank smiles broadly at the friends, ”Shall we? I certainly feel like an ale… and, if you are still delving out at the Spire, then you folks sure deserve one too”


M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • What the...

    Gray did his best not to show his surprise at the degree of comfort afforded to the supposed suspected traitor, not to mention his happy-go-lucky visage at the Lady's appearance.

    What is going on here? There is something more than meets the eye...

    After leaving the cells and the Citadel behind, Grayface grabbed Dolliver and hoisted him up upon his shoulders. He knew halflings hated it when humans belittled them as a child-like race, but he hoped the small tavern owner wouldn't take it too seriously this time. After all, it was a good evening.

    "How's the view up there? So, I think you'll have to give me directions, as we haven't been to the Julliver in so long."

    Of course he was joking, considering the small size of the Fort, and considering he was having a hard time forgetting the fluttering page pinned to the Julliver's door that told of its closure. He well knew where the Julliver was, and he was glad to be the one to deliver Reedbank back there.

    Grayface will bring the halfling back to his inn and plan on having some ales and a bed for the night.


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    Rallos hides his surprise at the "jail" Reedbank was kept in.

    Are you sure you want to get sprung out of here? Rather rough living... he snorts in jest.

    But since ou're out, we could use a pint of ale or sic..and some warm food and a soft bed.


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • After helping Dolliver dust off the bar and tables, lighting the hearth fire, and carrying out a fresh keg, Grayface sat down with his mug and watched the halfling man intently. He still had a suspicion about the circumstances surrounding the tavern-keep's incarceration, and since he and his friends were wrapped up in the politics of the Keep, he wanted to know more.

    As he often did when it mattered, Grayface stumbled over his own words when trying solicit some information.

    "So, Dolliver. A Chaise Longue? It seems that the Lady wanted you to be more comfortable than the average prisoner, eh?"

    Diplomacy: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (6) - 2 = 4, lol
    Sense Motive: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7, lol


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    "Charming, private time with the Lady Commander," mutters Yasmin sarcastically as Durvost leaves. In truth, she felt rather queasy at the thought of being at the Citadel alone. It was a good way to get arrested, or presented with an offer she couldn't refuse.

    But her attentions return to Dolliver Reedbank and his surprisingly comfortable imprisonment. "Dolliver, you seem to have done well for yourself despite your request. Family connections?" Yasmin isn't inclined to discuss too much while they were still in the stronghold of the Hellknights. Instead, she eagerly joins Dolliver on his grand re-opening of the Juliver Arms.


    News of the re-opening of the Julliver Arms spreads quickly through Fort Inevitable... and the scene is set for an evening of song, stories, fine food and ale...

    ...and none are more jovial than Dolliver Reedbank, explaining that Druvost never really asked him a question whilst he was in the Citadel, he postulates that the Lady Commander was simply trying to antagonise the Seven Foxes... the semi-organised resistance to the Hellknight presence... into an overt reaction, "There was never a case against me and the Lady Commander, as severe as she may be, was ever careful not to overstep the mark... the last thing she needed was for any accusations of her deviating from the law that she is sworn to uphold".

    Resting up overnight and, in the morning, what are you folks going to be doing?


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • I would like to buy an ever-burning torch and a shield sconce. How long would that take to accomplish?

    Other than that, Grayface is ready to head back to the spire and explore some more.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Yasmin responds to Dolliver's story. "You know, it feels like she also arrested you as a bargaining chip. We've been trying to get you released ever since you were arrested. Now that we completed one of her assigned tasks, she releases you."

    In the morning, Yasmin bids farewell momentarily to the others. "I'm off to see the Lady Commander. Hopefully she won't keep me waiting. . . ." As she spoke the words, it occurred to her how unlikely that hope really was. She returns to request an audience.

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    The situation with Dolliver confused Murassa, and he didn't like being confused. Was he a suspected traitor or not? Giving a sigh of frustration at the commander's antics, Murassa just had a couple mugs of ale before going to bed. Maybe life would seem better in the morning.

    Yeah, and his mother would return...

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    Waking up in the morning, Murassa gave a stretch before heading down to meet the others. "Well, after getting everything settled, shall we brave the magma-filled depths?" he asked.


    Grayface wrote:
    I would like to buy an ever-burning torch and a shield sconce. How long would that take to accomplish?

    You can sort that out in the space of a morning with the armourers and either Signifier Hast or Abernard Royst providing the ever-burning torch.

    When Yasmin suggests that Dolliver Reedbank may have been used as some form of a bargaining chip to ensure the ongoing compliance of the friends whilst they explore the Spire, the halfling nods, "The Lady Commander is a shrewd tactician... from my experiences with her, she will exploit any perceived weaknesses to the maximum benefit... it may well be that she felt you had some loyalty towards me and, even without explicitly stating it, ensured your onward cooperation with the implication that my release would not occur without your service to the Hellknights", Reedbank takes a hearty gulp of the ale that he has been drinking since his release, "...or, it may be something else... like I said, Druvost is obsessed with driving the Seven Foxes out of hiding such that she can arrest them and quell any resistance to the Hellknight's presence here. She may have hoped the Seven Foxes would have been provoked to action".

    The next day...

    Yasmin's arrival at the Citadel is expected and, for the very first time, she is ushered directly through to the Lady Commander's offices. Standing and greeting Yasmin, with some formality, Druvost gets straight down to business, "I have already received word from DiViri's living relatives... instructions has been given that she is to be raised although the responsibility for doing so will be passed to the Order of the Gate. As I understand, Signifers of the Gate will be with us within the week... and, assuming all goes well, we will be able to hear first hand from Signifer DiViri as to what happened out at the Spire."

    Beckoning for Yasmin to take a seat, Druvost continues, "Until then, Aoz remains our best intelligence as to what is down there in the depths... my discussions with the creature have revealed some scattered information... it talks of a giant moving through the rock? And also, of the sound of beating wings reverberating through the caverns? It seems that DiViri's expedition didn't travel much farther than you have already explored... nonetheless, Aoz could prove a useful scout... would its presence and assistance be agreeable to you?"

    Actions? I am assuming that Yasmin travelled to the Citadel on her own... Is anyone else doing anything specific? Otherwise, we can wrap up quickly and get you back to the Magma Vault... Also, don't forget that you had planned to get Druvost out to the Spire to negotiate with the Mistress of Thorns.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Yasmin's spirits are improved as she is greeted quite quickly by Durvost. She takes a seat as requested, and listens attentively. "We are glad we could be of service in restoring Signifier DiViri. I presume the Lictor is pleased?"

    Yasmin waits for an opportune moment to bring up more delicate subjects. "I want to remind you of the matter of the Mistress of Thorns, who requested a meeting by the time the moon is full. We know that Signifier DiViri met the Mistress of Thorns, and may have her own opinions about whether to cut a deal with the Devil. It sounds like she will be raised in time to offer her opinion. I assume our bargaining position will be stronger by then, and then you can decide whether or not to strike an agreement with the Mistress."

    Finally, with respect to Aoz, Yasmin would have agreed, but knew what his companions would think. "I'm glad you were able to talk with Aoz. He's not the most articulate creature," Yasmin says, attempting a joke. "I think I have offended the sensibilities of many of my colleagues after so willingly dealing with the Mistress of Thorns. They would revolt if I suggested to bring along Aoz. But the intelligence you've provided is quite helpful. The magma there is most unusual, I do not understand how it flows, and yet we are not burned. It wouldn't surprise me if there are creatures of elemental fire in that realm, much as there were creatures of elemental water in the watery levels above. As for wings, do you think it could be dragons?"

    When the discussion is complete, it occurs to Yasmin that she had a bit more time with how quickly she had been greeted. She stops by to meet Abernard Royst, hoping the mage is in. If so, Yasmin discusses some of the latest events. "You'll be glad to know that Dolliver Reedbank is released. It seems the Mistress had him in quite comfortable accommodations as far as being imprisoned goes. She likely meant to draw out the Seven Foxes, but they have obviously been too cunning to take the bait. In the meantime, we have retrieved the body of Signifier DiViri from a strange level of the Spire, one where magma flows everywhere and yet the heat remains bearable. The Signifier will be raised within the week. Still, the Hellknights who went down there were engulfed by a sudden ejection of magma, and rumor speaks of a giant that walks through the lava, and the sound of beating wings. Do you know what it all might mean? And do you happen to have some magics that can help protect all of us from fire?"

    Yasmin is in the market for a Scroll of Resist Energy, Communal, which I believe would cost 375 gp.

    Finally, Yasmin mentions the deal that was being discussed with the Mistress of Thorns. "If you can learn anything about the Mistress, that would be most helpful if we indeed strike a dark bargain with her."


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • Now that Yazz has once again broached the subject about the devil, Grayface has no plans other than to get his magic torch and sconce.


    ”The Lictor has neither expressed his pleasure nor his displeasure… nor would I expect him to. The Hellknights at Fort Inevitable were given the task of determining Signifer DiViri’s fate, you – on our behalf – accomplished that task… what more is there to be said?”, the Lady Commander’s manner is as dispassionate as ever… and when Yasmin suggests that Aoz will not be accompanying the friends on their return to the Spire, it gets colder still, ”Very well… the Kyton may have been a useful aide whilst you explored but I cannot… and will not… dictate to either yourselves nor to Aoz. We must hope that the enigmatic information that it has provided is, when you return to the Magma filled levels, useful… it would be unfortunate if you and your friends were to meet the same fate as Signifer DiViri”

    When talk turns to the Mistress of Thorns, Druvost scowls, ”I had not forgotten your commitment to facilitate an agreement between myself and the devil down there in the depths… as you say, Chaid’s resurrection may provide us with further information and allow for a better position from which to negotiate. We have time yet before this meeting must happen… I will consider further when I have interrogated Signifer DiViri” and, with that, the short meeting is finished… finding herself at a loose end, Yasmin heads to Royst’s place…

    It is a far more pleasant half hour that she spends with Abernard Royst than with the Lady Commander; Royst expresses some gratitude that the friends had, in some way, accelerated the release of Dolliver Reedbank… and, rooting around in an old chest, finds the scrolls that Yasmin was searching for, ”A gift my dear… no need to pay me? Your maps and your tales are quite payment enough”. At the sorcerer’s description of what may yet await the friends in the spire, Royst professes that his research of the area had never predicted the presence of Magma, ”Still… you previously navigated a floor with connections to the Plane of Water… maybe this is, in some way, connected to the Plane of Fire? I have little advice to give you other than to be cautious… I wish you luck, and I hope to see you with more stories of the Spire soon enough”.

    Unless there are any objections, I’m going to move you along to hiking back out to the Spire… and, when you get there, trekking down to ‘The Magma Vault’ or using the Emerald Spire Tokens to ‘teleport along the crystal?’


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    Too bad Aoz isn't coming with us...he might have proved an excellent guide. Oh well, we will have to find out about the Spire all on our own. Is everyone ready?

    either way we get there is ok with me..


    Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

    This "Aoz" could be both a guide and a spy, for the Hellknights. I won't trust it.


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    Good point...that would be a bad thing. But I think the Lady Commander isn't that fond of him....but there is a chance he is a spy.


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • "I wonder now if the Mistress is somehow monitoring the energy of the Spire, and would notice if we teleported along its descent. I say we should take the long way down, again, for now at least."

    His logic was simple but was stated in an open tone, waiting for others to share their opinions.

    I'm ready to go back, and I'll descend either way the party wants to.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    "It's always easier to go down the stairs than up." Yasmin is happy to walk.


    By lunchtime, the friends are re-provisioned and have finished all of their business at Fort Inevitable, and so, after a relaxed meal at the Julliver, the group head out into the light rainfall that seems to linger over the River Kingdoms this time of year. The conversation about the merits, or otherwise, of Aoz has run its course by the time that the friends turn up the track that leads them back into the Echo Wood… and, with the sound of rain against the tree canopy providing a strangely relaxing atmosphere to their journey, the majority of the three hour hike is in silence. Finally arriving at the clearing around the tower ruins, Rallos surveys the scene… and having satisfied himself that there is nothing else here, leads the friends across the perfectly circular Spire Glen and up into the shelter of the Azlanti ruins. There is time enough to eat a short meal whilst the friends dry themselves and prepare for the downwards hike that awaits them…

    …down through to Gorloth’s crypt, on and through to the abandoned den of the Splinters. Even though there are two entrances to this complex of rooms – one from the upper levels and a second from another clearing elsewhere in the woods – the hideout remains utterly empty and quiet. Grabbing a few more items of scrap metal as offering to the troglodyte’s ‘God’, the friends make their way through to the submerged level where, having dried themselves from the rain, the nature of this area results in a soaking… they are still quite sodden when they make their way through the next few areas… the serpentfolk’s lairs, Klarkosh’s maze and a quick rush through the Mistress of Thorns’ corridors. It is only as they draw close to the lava-filled level where they discovered Chaid DiViri… and Aoz… that the friends start to feel dry once more…

    Back at the first caves of the Magma Vault, the friends find the network of caves exactly as they left it… to the north-east, the passageway leads back to the rock bridge over the lava whilst, to the north-west, a small cave containing a pile of packs and bedrolls remains unexplored.

    Actions?


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • The fighter kept his eyes glued to the mysterious green gaseous creatures who danced around the stalactites above the rock bridge. He did not understand what they were, what their nature was, nor what likelihood there was of hostilities breaking out. They had passed under them unmolested last time, and so he hoped they would ignore the party once again.

    Travelling through the heated room and over the lava bridge, Grayface turned toward the yet unexplored north east corridor, leading the party along.

    If the passage goes dark as distance grows from the lava, Gray will use his new magic torch and shield sconce.


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    Rallos points out the packs.

    Perhaps the Hellknights had a journal or some notes they made as they went? Can't hurt to check. he says as he searches the packs.

    perception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Yasmin checks for magic around the packs, just in case. Detect Magic.

    Spellcraft, if necessary: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17


    Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

    Perception, aid Rallos: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12

    Ea helps Rallos to look out for information in the dead Hellknights equipment


    After Grayface has staked out the tunnel to the north, confirming that nothing has changed since they were last there, the friends return to the small cave that the Hellknights must have used as a camp during their ill-fated expedition. Rallos' examination, from afar, reveals little... The packs in the centre of the cave are stacked in a near-perfect pyramid, and, other than a few etchings into the wall depicting armoured figures marching beneath a flaming orb, there is nothing else of note...

    ...until Yasmin sees the faint abjuration aura emanating from the pyramid of packs.

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    "I don't like this," Murassa said as he eyed the packs warily. "I mean, with all the stuff we've come across just since I joined you, how is it that those packs are were left stacked all neat and orderly? Why hasn't anything come by and messed with them?"


    Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

    That's true, Murassa..Someone here is obsessive with order.


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    Now it could be a military thing...like when they rest their weapons in a pyramid at camp...but i find myself siding with you...someone or something is a little compulsive.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    "There's an abjuration aura from the packs. They could be warded? Can anyone else tell what the effect might be?"

    I'm assuming my earlier spellcraft check of 17 failed to do so.


    Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

    Spellcraft: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19

    Let me see..


    After the source of the aura eludes Yasmin, Ea takes a look... and feels, more than sees, the presence of a 'Stone of Alarm'... This stone cube, when given the command word, affixes itself to any object. If that object is touched thereafter by anyone who does not first speak that same command word, the stone emits a piercing screech for 1 hour that can be heard up to a quarter-mile away...


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • Yikes!

    ----------

    Gray stood by his friends, refusing to go any closer to the packs after Yasmin's declaration of a magic aura. He had no concept of how to help, and only had the faintest idea what the aura could mean.


    Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

    Better to leave these untouched for now, unless we want to warn every potential foe of our presence.


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • GM Zed wrote:
    ...other than a few etchings into the wall depicting armoured figures marching beneath a flaming orb, there is nothing else of note...

    "What do you suppose this means? Is that the sun?"


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    "Maybe it's a warning? A flaming ball that pursued the Hellknights?" Yasmin shrugged, unsure of what to make of it. "Let's move on. I hope those gaseous creatures aren't still around that bridge."


    Leaving the stacked packs behind, the friends make their way back across the rock bridge - the mist creatures continuing to ignore them - and move eastwards along a narrowing tunnel. A wretched-smelling breeze, carrying an uncomfortable heat with it, rushes through this narrowing tunnel. The tunnel, turning to the south at the easternmost end, narrows so much that Grayface and his friends will need to squeeze to pass through...


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Seeing the passageway narrow, Yasmin decides that some scouting might be helpful.

    "Rallos, if you're up for it, I can make you invisible so you can sneak ahead. We can see if the way is clear. If it isn't, we can prepare, and you can also use the invisibility to your advantage when we enter combat."

    If Rallos and the others agree, Yasmin casts Invisibility on Rallos. Druation is 7 minutes.

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    "Here, I can help you move better," Murassa said as he laid a hand upon Rallos' shoulder. Concentrating briefly, he channeled a portion of his power into the tiefling, enhancing the elasticity of his tendons and joints.

    Cat's Grace, +4 Dex for 7 minutes.


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    I will see what lies ahead....be right back. Rallos heads down the confining passageway.

    will likely need to roll Escape artist i assume....

    escape: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (19) + 17 = 36


    Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

    Looking at Rallos as he squeeze himself expertedly into the passage

    He's really a man of many talents. I hope nothing wrong will happen to him...

    A few months ago, Ea would have talked about meeting his Fate, without any emotion.
    Now she feels concern about the safety of others, or at least of her close friends.


    The whole tunnel smells disgusting, but in its tightest area where an invisible Rallos now squeezes through the gases seem to blow exceptionally hot... and are quite nauseating.

    Rallos must make a DC18 Fort Save due to inhaled gases... or be Poisoned. Rallos will be Weakened: A character whose health is weakened by Constitution poison takes a –2 penalty on all Fortitude saves and Constitution checks. Every time she attempts a Fortitude save against the poison, whether she succeeds or fails, she takes damage as on initial exposure.

    The far end of the tunnel, where it turns to south and out of view of Rallos' friends is partially blocked by a shining hunk of metal... heat is pouring off of the metallic surface...

    Map update to follow.


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    fort: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15


    Choking in the gas, Rallos is suddenly confronted with the metallic surface - radiating heat violently - starting to flow into the cramped tunnel.

    Rallos, 1d6 ⇒ 2 Fire Damage

    Excruciating Burn (Ex) A living creature that takes fire damage from the approaching wall of molten metal succeed at a DC 16 Fortitude save or be staggered for 1 round.

    Not rolling initiative quite yet... is Rallos going to stand his ground or retreat?

    Map update to follow when I find a decent image.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    This sounds like trouble.

    -Posted with Wayfinder


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    remember i have fire resistance 5...

    Rallos backs up as he hacks and coughs.

    Air is bad....toxic I think...lava too....metal plate with lava on it...unsure what it is... he says between breaths.
    [


    Ahhh, I thought Rallos probably had Fire Resistance but forgot to check... so no damage from the heat aura.

    As Rallos stumbles from the tunnel, coughing and sweating in the heat, he is followed by a wall of liquid metal flowing out of the tight passageway... the smouldering mass of metal-encrusted goo sports half a dozen pseudopods, each tipped with a burning-hot blade.

    Knowledge (Dungeoneering) DC18:
    Shard slags are living mounds of magic-infused iron. They dwell within the iron-rich molten cores of worlds, the hearts of active volcanoes, or any location where the borders of the Material Plane and the Plane of Fire are thin. Though they're not sentient, shard slags are skilled hunters and have developed a bizarre method of hunting and defending themselves. When a creature is near, a shard slag spontaneously alters its molten body to produce a number of razor-sharp blades. The shard slag then mindlessly attacks until the other creature is stabbed, burned, and then consumed.

    Initiative for Party and Enemy

    Rallos, Initiative: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23
    Grayface, Initiative: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
    Murassa, Initiative: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 2 = 11
    Ea, Initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 1 = 16
    Yasmin, Initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4

    Shard Slag, Initiative: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (18) - 2 = 16

    Initiative Order
    Rallos, Ea then
    Shard Slag then
    Murassa, Grayface and Yasmin.

    Rallos and Ea may act now. Note that the metallic ooze has a 5ft aura of 1d6 Fire Damage... and, if anyone takes Fire Damage, they will need to make a DC16 Fort Save or be Staggered for 1 round.


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    kn. dungeon: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (4) + 12 = 16

    Rallos slashes at the creature with his blade in a blur.

    attack: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (4) + 12 = 161d6 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 = 111d6 ⇒ 34d6 ⇒ (3, 3, 2, 1) = 9

    second d6 is acid...unsure about sneak damage...but rolled it just in case.


    Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

    Know Dungeonerring: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6

    Ea has absolutely no clue about what the creature is or can do.
    She feels the heat from its body, anyway, but valiantly choose to fight

    +1 Undead Bane Attuned Morningstar: 1d20 + 6 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 6 + 1 + 1 = 18 Dmg: 1d8 + 1 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 + 1 + 1 = 11


    Going to roll Fire Damage and Fort Saves for folks that are in the aura.

    Rallos in 5ft Aura: 1d6 ⇒ 4 fire damage; reduced to zero by DR

    Ea in 5ft Aura: 1d6 ⇒ 2 fire damage
    Ea, Fort Save vs Excruciating Burn (DC16): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14, Save Failed, Ea is Staggered

    In the heat haze, Rallos and Ea attack the encroaching wall of molten metal... and both fail to land telling blows. Bubbling and boiling, four separate blades... swinging and slashing at the end of molten pseudopods... thrust forwards at Ea and Rallos. The blades of searing metal crash into Ea and Rallos... cutting, stabbing and searing...

    Shard Slag manifests 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4 pseudopods.

    Shard Slag, Slag Blade vs Ea: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (4) + 13 = 17, missing

    Shard Slag, Slag Blade vs Ea: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (16) + 13 = 29, hitting for 1d8 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9 plus 2d6 ⇒ (1, 6) = 7 fire damage.

    Shard Slag, Slag Blade vs Rallos: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (10) + 13 = 23, hitting for 1d8 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12 plus 2d6 ⇒ (3, 2) = 5 fire damage (reduced to nil by DR).

    Shard Slag, Slag Blade vs Rallos: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (19) + 13 = 32, Critical Threat
    Confirming Critical: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (2) + 13 = 15, Critical NOT Confirmed: 1d8 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14 plus 2d6 ⇒ (2, 2) = 4 fire damage (reduced to nil by DR).

    Everyone may take their turn now

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    Ah snap, now we gotta fight the T-1000?

    "What in the Hells?" Murassa exclaimed as a strange metal followed Rallos out of the small tunnel. "Seriously? We have to fight metal now?" Cursing the route his life had taken, he concentrated before his weapon formed in his hand. Instead of the usual flexible blade, it elongated into a longspear to keep himself away from the strange creature.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    It takes a moment before Yasmin realizes the molten thing in front of her is alive, and NOT friendly. At which point she takes a quick step back and blasts it, hoping to cool its jets.

    Freezing Arc, Rime Spell: 10d6 ⇒ (5, 1, 5, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 6, 2) = 34; Reflex DC18 for half damage, entangled if it takes any damage. Any sense of whether the creature is vulnerable to cold damage?

    Entangled:
    The character is ensnared. Being entangled impedes movement, but does not entirely prevent it unless the bonds are anchored to an immobile object or tethered by an opposing force. An entangled creature moves at half speed, cannot run or charge, and takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls and a –4 penalty to Dexterity. An entangled character who attempts to cast a spell must make a concentration check (DC 15 + spell level) or lose the spell.

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