The Great Modron March (Inactive)

Game Master bookrat

In which the heroes must try to save a town from the unswerving march.

Scenes of the March (modern 5e art)
Scenes of the March (original 2e art)
Scenes of the March (deviantart, inside Mechanus)
Heart's Faith Map


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Male Human (Variant) Warlock 1 Passive perception 13. AC 16. Hp 10/10. HD 1/1. Init +7 Spell slots: 1/1, save DC 13. Curse 1/1
Saves:
STR 0 DEX +2 CON +2 INT +1 WIS +3 CHA +5

Soolam inclines his head and takes the letter. He reads it, his face despairing more and more with each passing moment. More adventures. That bloody maniac is going to be there, I jus' know it. He sighs, and prepares his armour and weapons, which he tucks into his cloak. He goes to Papaur's Bakery, flips the owner 5 silver for a cake, and exits while thinking of the old hag who raised him.

Well, she did have good pastries.


Male Human (Illuskan) | Battle Master Fighter 3 | Inspiration (-) | AC 18 | HP: 28/28 | Init: +0 | Saves: Str +5 Con +4 Dex +0 Int +0 Wis +1 Cha +2 | Perception +3 - Passive: 13
GM Bookrat wrote:

To the Honorable and the Witness.

You are cordially invited to join our host on the eve of Revolvis the 1st. Please attend for dinner and conversation.
To attend, please visit Papaur's Bakery, located next to the Great Gymnasium. Enter the shop, purchase something sweet, and exit with kind thoughts of your mother. You shall arrive just outside the estate.
Alziel
Sword Archon of Mount Celestia
Hearts Faith

Duncan will take the letter and thank the small glowing ball of light. The being likely found him in his cups, and will offer the being some ale. Ale or no, Duncan will ask the being who his master is, and why he would want to see Duncan of all people.

What is today's date, and when is Revolvis the 1st? If my character doesn't know, he will find his companions who might know.


Sorry. I meant to include that in the same post. It's in one week.


Soolam wrote:
Soolam uses the papers and accounting books as kindling while he buys some better furniture for the place.
Quote:
Aerin could typically be found back at the house where he paged through the journals on accounting, looking for any topics that might be more interesting than financial equations. More than once Soolam returned to the house to find the genasi asleep at the table, his face resting on the open pages of a dry text on mathematics.

The evening before your dinner date, you try to pull an old book off the shelf which doesn't seem to want to move. It's on a bookshelf only half filled with accounting books, and one of many that doesn't have any writing on the binding.

As you grab it, you hear an audible click. The bookshelf swings slightly out. Behind it is a rickety stairwell going down into a basement. Headed down, the stairwell aways a bit. You quickly discover the reason: it doesn't go all the way down! It is freely hanging, only secure by a few bolts at the top.

Casting a light spell, the basement looks spacious. The most obvious sign is that the light spell doesn't illuminate the entire basement. You can hear critters chittering in the darkness. If you clear them out, there likely would be more than enough room to house all the members of the Guild of the Book and Cat.


Male Human (Variant) Warlock 1 Passive perception 13. AC 16. Hp 10/10. HD 1/1. Init +7 Spell slots: 1/1, save DC 13. Curse 1/1
Saves:
STR 0 DEX +2 CON +2 INT +1 WIS +3 CHA +5

"Well... Aerin, let us deal with than once we get back, alright? Make sure to lock it up tight." Soolam says, moving a table in front of the hidden door, to block it off. "We'll get the others to help us with it."


female Human Warlock 3 | AC 15 | HP 23/23 | PassPerc 9 | Saves: STR+0 DEX +3 CON +1 INT +2 WIS +1 CHA +5 | Spells 1/2; Spell Save DC 13 | [x] Inspiration

Int (Arcana): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24 to identify what I presume is a lantern Archon

"Thank you." Zethaya says briefly, as she accepts the letter.

Looking over the message, she frowns. Kind thoughts of my mother? I wonder if favorable assumptions would suffice.

The gaunt, winged creature perched on her shoulder curiously eyes the letter: "Mount celestia. Sounds like it'll be a fun party."

"Too bad you're going to miss it, Sinjin.", the Warlock responds. The diminutive fiend scoffs.


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |

Aerin stood on the lowest step of the truncated stair, listening intently to the noises in the darkness below, motionless with his head cocked to one side. After a full two minutes he suddenly ascended the stair again, went over to the long table where he had left a hodge-podge of books strewn, and plucked the crust of bread remaining from his lunch some hours ago. He then glided back to the stairs, descended to the lowest step once more, and stepped off—

---only to hang motionless in the air, before descending at a gentle pace. Use spell-like ability mingle with the wind.

Floating slowly down, he twisted the fingers of his left hand in a arcane gesture and called forth a quartet of softly glowing orbs and sending them sailing down into the darkness, spreading them in cardinal directions to try to get a look at the basement layout and the source of the chittering noises. In his right hand, he began to crumble the heel of bread and let the crumbs fall below him in a rain of what he hoped would be enticing morsels.

Cast dancing lights and use the orbs to attempt to scout out what is below. Descend only far enough to see the floor, but be ready to ascend again at the first sign of trouble such as flying projectiles, a nest of baby tarrasque, etc. Use the bread as bait to try to draw out any critters.


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |
GM Bookrat wrote:

To the Honorable and the Witness.

You are cordially invited to join our host on the eve of Revolvis the 1st. Please attend for dinner and conversation.

To attend, please visit Papaur's Bakery, located next to the Great Gymnasium. Enter the shop, purchase something sweet, and exit with kind thoughts of your mother. You shall arrive just outside the estate.

Alziel
Sword Archon of Mount Celestia
Hearts Faith

=================================

Last night a letter was delivered to you by a small floating ball of light. The being was no more than a foot wide, and asked for you by name. Upon meeting you, it said, [b]"Excuse me, noble traveller. I have be sent to deliver this letter to you. If you would be so kind as to accept it, I would be greatful."

Looking at the ball of light rather dubiously, the genasi managed to smile and bow gracefully while accepting the letter. Once it had departed and he'd had the chance to read the note he frowned. Who on Mount Celestia could possible be asking for him by name?


Male Bariaur Barbarian 3 | AC 13 | HP 32/32 | Init 0 | Saves: STR +5 DEX 0 CON +5 INT +1 WIS -1 CHA +1 | Perception -1 (9) | Inspiration: [ ]

After returning to Sigil, Wyaph deals with the trauma of nearly dying as a bariaur should - carousing until his money runs out. He crashes at Jysson's home regularly during that but occasionally disappearing for days at a time. He always returns staggering in drunk, exhausted, or both but often in various strange dress - once wearing the scaly hide of a creature no one could identify, another time wearing vastly oversized ochre robes, twice dressed as a Harmonium guard, and yet another dressed as a geisha. The morning after the last one, he had was even more confused that Aerin and Soolam, but he hoped whatever happened that it was something epic.

After about a month of these activities, one night he didn't return. Out of money, and with the carousing out of his system, he returned to the Great Foundry to reforge his mind and his body. There he spent his days working at the forges until he could scarcely lift his arms, and spent his nights talking with other Godsmen about what had occurred and to hear of their journeys to godhood. Occasionally, he is sent on an errand for the Godsmen, but mostly works on projects at his forge for the Faction.

Also "Gaining Renown" with the Believers of the Source. Dunno if we want to get into specific numbers, or just know that he is trying to work up from Namer rank, but is low enough level (and this post late enough), that I figure any work for the Faction needn't be anything too noteworthy this time.

Ultimately, he came to the conclusion that since Primus started the Modron March years early but at the exact moment Wyaph was bleeding out right outside the portal to Mechanus, he believes Primus sent the modrons at that moment to save him because the One and Prime of the Modrons can see the future and knows Wyaph's upcoming godhood is nearing. Since the March continued after Wyaph recovered, there must be more to this plan, but he is glad to see Primus's obvious acknowledgement of Wyaph's importance. However, he knows he must take the next steps on his own if he is truly worthy. This was the only time Primus would help the bariaur, but he appreciated it deeply.

When the invitation arrives, Wyaph, covered in soot and sweat, bows to the light, thanking it. He smiles as he reads it, excited at the numerous possibilities involved, and gets back to work.

Carousing Results: 1d100 ⇒ 30

You make an enemy. This person, business, or organization is now hostile towards you. The DM determines the offended party. You decide how you offended them.

Hmm... interesting. :)


Aerin - Several giant rats come out from the shadows to steal the larger pieces of bread. The smaller rats that come out seem to have a grotesque growth on their heads, and after a moment you realize that its a brain. You hear more squeeks from the shadows.

Wyaph - While out carousing, a group of dust men overheard your story. Angered that you were supposed to die, yet didn't, they now swear that you should enter the deadbook as you were supposed to. Or at least enter into undeath as is proper. Either way, you need to die first.


You make your way through the bread shop, and spend a bit to buy some bread or a pastry. As you leave, you think pleasant thoughts of your mother and the portal opens to Mount Celestia.

You find yourself on a mountainside an a clear pleasant evening. Sweet smells of flowers waft by, interrupted only by the scent of cooked mutton. The sound of gentle waves crashing against a shoreline can be faintly heard. The immediate area around you has been cleared out, and you find yourself next to an innately carved wooden archway that looks like it was put there specifically for the portal you just came through. Nearby is a road leading down the mountain to a coastal town not far below.

Behind the archway you just walked through is a much larger arch made of white marble and silver. About 30 yards separate the two arches. The larger arch looks to be set into the mountainside itself, and is the front side of a building built into the mountain. Looking around, the area is tiled, with set patched of grass aligned in an orderly patter. The area extends out beyond the earth of the mountain, forming a balcony overlooking the town below and the Silver Sea. The scents of mutton come from a cooking fire built into the ground; whoever invited you seems to be having an outdoor roast.

Nearby the fire stands a Sword Archon. She turns to great you, her red hair gleaming in the firelight. Her face seems to shine with serenity, yet that serenity is marred by a tiny wrinkle between her eyes - a sign that says "something is amiss on the Mount."

"Good evening. Thank you for accepting my invitation. I am Alzeil, Sword Archon of the Silver Rank. In the name of all my brethren, I welcome you. I beseech you to hear my request. If you are honorable creatures, you will listen. And if you are not, I can promise payment. Will you listen?"


Male Human (Variant) Warlock 1 Passive perception 13. AC 16. Hp 10/10. HD 1/1. Init +7 Spell slots: 1/1, save DC 13. Curse 1/1
Saves:
STR 0 DEX +2 CON +2 INT +1 WIS +3 CHA +5

"Nobody ever mistook me for honourable." Soolam says, bowing. "I will listen, for now."


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |
Wyaph Cloudrunner wrote:

After returning to Sigil, Wyaph deals with the trauma of nearly dying as a bariaur should - carousing until his money runs out. He crashes at Jysson's home regularly during that but occasionally disappearing for days at a time. He always returns staggering in drunk, exhausted, or both but often in various strange dress - once wearing the scaly hide of a creature no one could identify, another time wearing vastly oversized ochre robes, twice dressed as a Harmonium guard, and yet another dressed as a geisha. The morning after the last one, he had was even more confused that Aerin and Soolam, but he hoped whatever happened that it was something epic.

After about a month of these activities, one night he didn't return. Out of money, and with the carousing out of his system, he returned to the Great Foundry to reforge his mind and his body. There he spent his days working at the forges until he could scarcely lift his arms, and spent his nights talking with other Godsmen about what had occurred and to hear of their journeys to godhood. Occasionally, he is sent on an errand for the Godsmen, but mostly works on projects at his forge for the Faction.

Also "Gaining Renown" with the Believers of the Source. Dunno if we want to get into specific numbers, or just know that he is trying to work up from Namer rank, but is low enough level (and this post late enough), that I figure any work for the Faction needn't be anything too noteworthy this time.

Ultimately, he came to the conclusion that since Primus started the Modron March years early but at the exact moment Wyaph was bleeding out right outside the portal to Mechanus, he believes Primus sent the modrons at that moment to save him because the One and Prime of the Modrons can see the future and knows Wyaph's upcoming godhood is nearing. Since the March continued after Wyaph recovered, there must be more to this plan, but he is glad to see Primus's obvious acknowledgement of Wyaph's importance. However, he knows he must take the next steps on his own...

Great post


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |

Aerin turned slowly, taking in all the surrounding sights after he came through the gate in the bakery. He lingered, staring at the ocean, the coast town, the mountain, the fields. There was a deep and lasting beauty to it all to be sure, but the genasi couldn’t help but think it was as if someone took Ysgard and filed off all the rough, exciting edges. Instead of a tangle of brilliant wildflowers exploding from the earth, here you had orderly rows of domesticated blooms ready to be put in a vase. Instead of a turbulent ocean to test the best sailor’s seamanship, here was a placid surf suitable for a family’s float. Instead of jagged mountains posing a challenge to the boldest of climbers, here were gentle paths winding up a rounded hill.

It was like they had taken Ysgard and sucked all the fun out of it.

>"Good evening. Thank you for accepting my invitation. I am Alzeil, Sword Archon of the Silver Rank. In the name of all my brethren, I welcome you. I beseech you to hear my request. If you are honorable creatures, you will listen. And if you are not, I can promise payment. Will you listen?"

The sound of the Archon’s voice broke Aerin’s contemplation and her turned and approached the woman. He dipped his head and replied. “I am Aerin of Ysgard, son of Whisper the sylph and Artorus, djinni and poet. I am of no particular rank, but I will listen.”


She nods politely to the two who responded, and says, "As you may know, the modrons have left Mechanus early on their grand March. This can only be due to some spark of chaos that has infused them. As such, orders have come from above that we are not to interact with them, for feat that their chaos will infect us also. After all, if chaos can come even to the supremely lawful modrons, how could
we resist it?"

She takes a step forward. "And yet, we see that the Modron March is headed for the town of Heart's Faith. We know from past experience that the devastation they wreak is horrifying, unless they can be persuaded to either circumnavigate the town or march through the winding streets Instead of following their usual unyielding straight lines. They march through buildings, disregarding life and property both. They bring structure to a chaotic end - and they do not swerve aside as they tunnel through the town.

"We are caught in a dilemma, you see. We cannot contact the modros, for fear that their chaos would bring the Mount tumbling around our ears, but neither can we allow them to bring chaos to Heart's Faith.

"Thus it was that our superiors instructed us to find agents who could come into contact with these modrons in our stead, and to see if these folk would be kind enough to attempt to prevent the modrons from entering our beloved town of Heart's Faith. We found you because an ally of ours from Automata told us of your willingness to do kind acts towards those in need, and you have experienced these particular modrons for yourself.

"Will you help?"

She pauses as she asks the question, awaiting a response from each of you individually.


INACTIVE - GAME DIED

Zan cocks her head to the side, listening. Then she makes a square in the air, pantomimes wiggling her fingers about - as if to represent a crazy modron - followed by pointing to herself, then back to the imaginary square, then back to herself, followed by wiggling her fingers over her own head. Then she points from herself to the woman, wiggles her fingers again, and shrugs her shoulders in a questioning fashion.

If you couldn't figure that out...:
What's to say that if this chaos infects us from the modrons, it won't then jump to you anyway? Having an intermediary is no guarantee of safety if it's catching.


Male Human (Variant) Warlock 1 Passive perception 13. AC 16. Hp 10/10. HD 1/1. Init +7 Spell slots: 1/1, save DC 13. Curse 1/1
Saves:
STR 0 DEX +2 CON +2 INT +1 WIS +3 CHA +5

"I think, Zan, is that she doesn't want us to come back." Soolam turns to the sword archon. "It wasn't really our 'kind deeds,' was it? It's just a happy coincidence. You're really just picking some berks who won't end up in your happy little mountain after they die."


female Human Warlock 3 | AC 15 | HP 23/23 | PassPerc 9 | Saves: STR+0 DEX +3 CON +1 INT +2 WIS +1 CHA +5 | Spells 1/2; Spell Save DC 13 | [x] Inspiration

"Diverting marching Modrons from their chosen path has historically proved impossible. I understand, with them already deviating from their normal schedule, the rules have changed, but I wouldn't count on it. Standing in their way is more likely to get us trampled to death as well. Wouldn't evacuation be a more appropriate response?"

Infected by chaos. I wonder how Sinjin would react to those news. Zethaya thinks as she says that.


Male Bariaur Barbarian 3 | AC 13 | HP 32/32 | Init 0 | Saves: STR +5 DEX 0 CON +5 INT +1 WIS -1 CHA +1 | Perception -1 (9) | Inspiration: [ ]

Wyaph looked out over the balcony, coincidentally lost in thought of Ysgard, his childhood home. A pang of grief struck him, reminding him of his father. But it moves on quickly as Wyaph is confident that his father was reborn into an even greater warrior somewhere, sure to shake the foundations of the planes themselves.

Shifting his thoughts toward the future rather than past, Wyaph contemplates how he should construct his realm when he becomes a god. Definitely needs mountains - massive mountains that break the sky itself! Or do you inherit an existing realm when you ascend? I suppose it depends on the method of your ascension -

At her mention of the modrons, Wyaph's attention turns back to Alzeil. As she finishes, Wyaph bows grandly. "Regardless of whether we return to this beautiful and..." he waves his hand around, trying to find the right words, "... well organized realm, I gladly accept this quest. I believe my fate to be intertwined with these modrons, and I plan to see it through. Their March will will bend to *our* wills and they shall spare Heart's Faith."


Male Human (Illuskan) | Battle Master Fighter 3 | Inspiration (-) | AC 18 | HP: 28/28 | Init: +0 | Saves: Str +5 Con +4 Dex +0 Int +0 Wis +1 Cha +2 | Perception +3 - Passive: 13

Duncan politely listens to the Sword Archon's request, and to his companions questions and comments. After Wyaph, he chimes in.
"I like the enthusiasm friend, but Zethaya may be right. Mayhaps we send a portion of us to treat with the Modrons, and the rest to get the town evacuated as a back up."
Then, turning back to the Sword Archon:
"Alzeil, is there any kind of boon, or badge, or emblem that we might be able to show the townsfolk of Heart's Faith that would prove that we are working under your auspices?"
Don't forget to level Wyaph =p


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |

>Alzeil "Thus it was that our superiors instructed us to find agents who could come into contact with these modrons in our stead, and to see if these folk would be kind enough to attempt to prevent the modrons from entering our beloved town of Heart's Faith.

>Zethaya "Diverting marching Modrons from their chosen path has historically proved impossible. I understand, with them already deviating from their normal schedule, the rules have changed, but I wouldn't count on it. Standing in their way is more likely to get us trampled to death as well.

I have some breadcrumbs Aerin thought to himself.

”Excuse me Alzeil, but what happened during past modron marches? Did they trample your cities then?”

He began thinking through potentially solutions, but also wondered at the magnitude of the “spark” that could send a near-infinite stream of modrons marching.

”Do you happen to have a sphere of annihilation? the genasi suddenly asked. ”I think that might be the trick.”

”And if we are able to save this town you mentioned, can we get a fancy sword like yours?”


The Archon smiles as she tries to understand Zan's meaning. Once Soolam answers, she gets her meaning.

I have decided to sacrifice myself. If you become infectious, it will only affect me. But as you are not naturally born of a lawful plane, I am suspecting that nothing will come of any infection.

As Zethaya and Duncan speak of evacuation, she nods and smiles. Since the morons are already off schedule, my superiors hope that they will also be willing to alter course. But I'd that does not happen, then an evacuation will be necessary. Speak with Couldronborn; he is the mayor.

She turns to address the genasi, The last time the match happened, this town was not here. It used to be the gate town, but as the hearts of the people became more attuned to the plane, the entire town shifted to become one with the plane. She chuckles a bit at the suggestion of the sphere, but replies with a bit of admonishment, We do not want to destroy the modrons - they serve as a role model to us all for their adherence to order - but we also do not want to see the lives of the town ruined. Please do not try to fight them, just route them if possible, or evacuate the city.

If you do this out of the goodness of your hearts, you will receive the gratitude of the Archons, and that is no small thing. Such gratitude will allow you to call on our aid in a time of need. But if you must receive payment, I am authorized to give up to five thousand gold pieces.


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |

Aerin nodded non-committally. Future gratitude? Didn’t sound particularly useful. Gold? Well, ok, but a sword sounded rather more immediately substantial.

He scanned the others to see if they were interested in this new venture…because if not there were some rats to deal with back in Sigil, and they weren’t likely to trample anyone. Still…

”What sort of breadcrumbs would entice modrons to deviate in their path?” he asked the others.


INACTIVE - GAME DIED

Zan sighs and pantomimes a circle, then a triangle over it, then a box over that, then shrugs.

Meaning...:
The modrons seem to be very hierarchical. Someone gives them orders. Who does that? Why would that person change the schedule?


Male Human (Illuskan) | Battle Master Fighter 3 | Inspiration (-) | AC 18 | HP: 28/28 | Init: +0 | Saves: Str +5 Con +4 Dex +0 Int +0 Wis +1 Cha +2 | Perception +3 - Passive: 13

Duncan contemplates very briefly, then nods.
"Well, I can't just stand here and let those innocent people be trampled. Count me in. Do we know how far off they are from Heart's Faith and how much time we have to either divert the Modrons or evacuate the town?"


Male Human (Variant) Warlock 1 Passive perception 13. AC 16. Hp 10/10. HD 1/1. Init +7 Spell slots: 1/1, save DC 13. Curse 1/1
Saves:
STR 0 DEX +2 CON +2 INT +1 WIS +3 CHA +5

"Five thousand? Seems fair, if we will be risking our lives."


If you look along the mountain's edge, you can see some lantern Archons glowing off one of the larger roads. They mark the location of the front of the March. It will be about ten hours before they reach Heart's Faith. They are about fifteen miles out.


Male Human (Illuskan) | Battle Master Fighter 3 | Inspiration (-) | AC 18 | HP: 28/28 | Init: +0 | Saves: Str +5 Con +4 Dex +0 Int +0 Wis +1 Cha +2 | Perception +3 - Passive: 13

"Don't suppose you can lend us some horses or some other form of transportation? Maybe a gate nearby that will lead to Heart's Faith? The quicker we get there, the better."
Then, something hits Duncan, and he stands there for a moment, both in shock and anger.
"Wait, you gave us the invitation to come here a week ago! You knew the whole time they were heading to Heart's Faith and you waited until the last 10 hours to maybe get some random adventurers on this?"


The letter was drafted as soon as the decision was made to elicit assistance from outside forces.

From there, we sought informationon who to best contact. An ally in Automata gave us your names. Then, following proper form, we gave one week advanced notice. Everything was done according to the rules and guidelines set by the Authorities.


Male Human (Variant) Warlock 1 Passive perception 13. AC 16. Hp 10/10. HD 1/1. Init +7 Spell slots: 1/1, save DC 13. Curse 1/1
Saves:
STR 0 DEX +2 CON +2 INT +1 WIS +3 CHA +5

"Well, there is lawful, and then there's lawful. We better get going."


Male Human (Illuskan) | Battle Master Fighter 3 | Inspiration (-) | AC 18 | HP: 28/28 | Init: +0 | Saves: Str +5 Con +4 Dex +0 Int +0 Wis +1 Cha +2 | Perception +3 - Passive: 13

Duncan stands there, dumbfounded by the bureaucracy.
Once he composes himself, he asks again:
"Any chance you can lend us some horses, or perhaps point us to a gate that will lead to Heart's Reach? Any aid we can get to help solve this situation quickly would be appreciated."


Yes, we can lend you some horses. Please visit the stables on your way out. There will be six horses saddled and ready.


Male Human (Illuskan) | Battle Master Fighter 3 | Inspiration (-) | AC 18 | HP: 28/28 | Init: +0 | Saves: Str +5 Con +4 Dex +0 Int +0 Wis +1 Cha +2 | Perception +3 - Passive: 13

"Excellent, then we'll head out now. We'll report back when when the job is done." With that, Duncan nods to the Sword Archon and makes his way to the stables.


You head to the stables to collect your mounts, six beautiful horses saddled and ready to ride.

Making your way down the main road, you kick up a cloud of dirt behind you (but not nearly as large a cloud as the army of modron marching towards you). The night is pleasantly cool as you ride.
On horseback, it doesn't take long to get to the modrons. Despite it being night, there is plenty of light from the lantern Archons floating about.

The modrons leave a trampled trail of underbrush and churn up the mud of the layer. They move without regard for the natural order of the Mount; intent on their mission, anything that gets in their way is simply trampled under-foot. The fauna of the Mount has fled the coming of the modrons, but the flora suffers.

While it's in Mount Celestla, the modron host is stretched out, with forerunners scouting ahead and a rear guard watching the back. The concentration of modrons is thickest in the middle, from whence a quinton leader is dispensing orders. The modrons surrounding the quinton are its immediate inferiors, spreading out in ever-decreasing circles of power.


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |

Aerin bounced along unhappily; he was finding riding a land-bound mount much less pleasant that zipping around on the giant dragonflies of Ysgard, primarily due to the constant jolts to his posterior, but his true discomfort was due to his complete inability to think of any way to divert the marching modrons.

He watched the herd as they overtook it on their way to Heart's Faith. The modrons didn't seem likely to be distracted from their path by food, companionship, or even self-preservation. What was left?


Male Human (Illuskan) | Battle Master Fighter 3 | Inspiration (-) | AC 18 | HP: 28/28 | Init: +0 | Saves: Str +5 Con +4 Dex +0 Int +0 Wis +1 Cha +2 | Perception +3 - Passive: 13

As they draw near, Duncan draws as close as the modrons will allow and far enough to not be trampled by them. If the modrons continue to march, he will match their speed on his mount. He then calls out to the modrons near the quinton.
"Hail friends! We come by order of the Sword Archons of Mount Celestia. We we're seeking an audience with whomever is leading the march."


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |
Duncan Stone wrote:
"Hail friends! We come by order of the Sword Archons of Mount Celestia. We we're seeking an audience with whomever is leading the march."

Huh. Well. Asking them. There was something he hadn't thought of.


Male Bariaur Barbarian 3 | AC 13 | HP 32/32 | Init 0 | Saves: STR +5 DEX 0 CON +5 INT +1 WIS -1 CHA +1 | Perception -1 (9) | Inspiration: [ ]

As their steeds gallop towards the modron legion spread across the land, Wyaph grips the reins tightly and leans down bracing himself. He says quietly to his horse, "Prepare yourself for a glorious day! They may be many, but our bravery knows no bounds. A finally grand charge into the enemy ranks awaits us, then they will sign the glori-" Wyaph cuts off and looks confused as Duncan shifts to approach the modrons parallel to their path.

Wyaph whispers to his horse, "I do not know his plans, so be ready, my friend."

Duncan Stone wrote:

As they draw near, Duncan draws as close as the modrons will allow and far enough to not be trampled by them. If the modrons continue to march, he will match their speed on his mount. He then calls out to the modrons near the quinton.

"Hail friends! We come by order of the Sword Archons of Mount Celestia. We we're seeking an audience with whomever is leading the march."

"Of course! They will witness our greatness and surely follow such mighty leaders as ourselves. Duncan, how do you wish for us to assist? Also, who should go to warn the town?"


Male Human (Illuskan) | Battle Master Fighter 3 | Inspiration (-) | AC 18 | HP: 28/28 | Init: +0 | Saves: Str +5 Con +4 Dex +0 Int +0 Wis +1 Cha +2 | Perception +3 - Passive: 13
Wyaph Cloudrunner wrote:
"Of course! They will witness our greatness and surely follow such mighty leaders as ourselves. Duncan, how do you wish for us to assist? Also, who should go to warn the town?"

Duncan leans in his saddle towards Wyaph.

"I suppose we'll see in a few moments if it is necessary. If it is, we'll all head to Heart's Faith and evacuate the town. We're on mounts, so we should get to the town considerably faster than them. If we end up having to fill out forms and whatnot just to speak to whomever is in charge, then a couple of us will stay with the modrons, and the rest make for the town."
He ponders for a moment before addressing the rest of his companions.
"Aerin, would you like to stay with me to speak to the modrons? And would the rest of you please make for the town if meeting with whomever is in charge takes longer than expected?"


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |

Aerin nodded in the affirmative to Duncan as he wracked his brains on what to say. He suspected, "Hey, look over there," wouldn't work in this case, so he decided he'd just follow the warrior's lead and help if and when he could.


INACTIVE - GAME DIED

Zan is, as usual, silent on the matter.


Male Human (Variant) Warlock 1 Passive perception 13. AC 16. Hp 10/10. HD 1/1. Init +7 Spell slots: 1/1, save DC 13. Curse 1/1
Saves:
STR 0 DEX +2 CON +2 INT +1 WIS +3 CHA +5

"Of course." Soolam says. "You think this will work?"


What language are you using to speak to the modrons, and which ones in specific are you trying to speak to? Your current options are (in order of most numerous to least numerous): monodrones (the first you come across), duodrones (one assigned per three monodrones), tridrones (one per three duodrones), quadrones (one with each tridrones), or a pentadrone (one for each three quadrones).

From there, there are in order of ascending rank, five decatons, four nonatons, four octons, one septon, one hexton, and one quinton.


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |

Hold out for Primus, Duncan!


female Human Warlock 3 | AC 15 | HP 23/23 | PassPerc 9 | Saves: STR+0 DEX +3 CON +1 INT +2 WIS +1 CHA +5 | Spells 1/2; Spell Save DC 13 | [x] Inspiration

As the group rides down the mountain, a cat-sized winged creature with crimson skin and small horns comes fluttering toward them and settles on Zethaya's shoulder: "I should introduce to you all, my new assistant, Sinjin." she says to the rest of the group as the fiendish looking creature comes to rest.

As they approach the modrons she advises the others "If you want to have a chance at negotiating, we should talk to the leading caste. I've been researching the creatures in the past weeks and I know what to look for."

"I wouldn't hold out hope, Soolam. It's better if some of us go there now ans make sure people are out of the modrons' way."


Male Human (Illuskan) | Battle Master Fighter 3 | Inspiration (-) | AC 18 | HP: 28/28 | Init: +0 | Saves: Str +5 Con +4 Dex +0 Int +0 Wis +1 Cha +2 | Perception +3 - Passive: 13

Duncan will try common, speaking to the quinton itself and if that doesn't work will repeat in dwarven on the off chance that will work. After that, he'll look to the party for advice.

Zethaya wrote:
As they approach the modrons she advises the others "If you want to have a chance at negotiating, we should talk to the leading caste. I've been researching the creatures in the past weeks and I know what to look for."

"In that case, maybe you and I should stay and the rest should make for Heart's Faith. Your knowledge of these creatures would be invaluable. On that note, what language do they usually speak?"


female Human Warlock 3 | AC 15 | HP 23/23 | PassPerc 9 | Saves: STR+0 DEX +3 CON +1 INT +2 WIS +1 CHA +5 | Spells 1/2; Spell Save DC 13 | [x] Inspiration

"They have their own language. And the drones only speak that one, as far as I know. We should have better luck with the hierarchs, they might speak our Common, I could also offer Infernal, if anything I would suppose they know the languages of the neighboring planes, but this is conjecture on my part."


Male Human (Variant) Warlock 1 Passive perception 13. AC 16. Hp 10/10. HD 1/1. Init +7 Spell slots: 1/1, save DC 13. Curse 1/1
Saves:
STR 0 DEX +2 CON +2 INT +1 WIS +3 CHA +5

DM:
Using mind meld on the quinton. Soolam can telepathically communicate with it, without having to share a language. Hello servant of law. We come by order of the Sword Archons of Mount Celestia. May we speak to whoever is leading the march?

"No need for language." Soolam says. "I will act as your translator, Duncan. I have already relayed your message. I suggest Wyaph and Zan to evacuate the town, she is terrifying and he is loud."

Switching Discipline to Conquering Mind, gaining temporary proficiency in persuasion (for a total of +3).


Male Air Genasi Bard 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 14 | Init +4 | Passive Perception 11 | Melee +4 (rapier, 1d8) | Ranged +4 (shortbow, 1d6) | Saves S0, D4, C2, I0, W0, Ch4 | Spells: DC 12, Slots 1st: 4/4 2nd: 2/2 | Inspiration [No] |

Aerin raised his eyebrows, impressed. He leaned over to Soolam and whispered conspiratorially, "Take them we come in peace. Tell them to take us to their leader.". He nodded solemnly.


Male Human (Variant) Warlock 1 Passive perception 13. AC 16. Hp 10/10. HD 1/1. Init +7 Spell slots: 1/1, save DC 13. Curse 1/1
Saves:
STR 0 DEX +2 CON +2 INT +1 WIS +3 CHA +5

"Aerin, would you trust anyone who said that to you? Especially if they were a totally different species?"

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