Zeb's Crypt of the Everflame PbP
Game Master
ZebulonXenos
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
When I get around to the exposition I'm going to tally up all the valuables that got bypassed and will reward that as GP to be spent on anything within reason - I'm not sure whether that will meet the WBL in the core rulebook, but it should at least meet the expectations for the next adventure since the two are linked. I might kick it up a little bit too since Telperion and Raven left with some of the group's wealth.
Post should be up within the next day or two.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Evidence in hand, the group makes their way out of the temple to find a heavy city guard presence just outside. Several glum-faced, white-robed individuals are partially illuminated by the street lamps at the edge of the square the temple sits on. Most bear at least some resemblance to the youth Evlar, likely suckered in much as he was. A few seem to be nursing minor wounds, and while none are bound, the group is watched over by a handful of armed guardsmen who look equally uneasy. A quartet of gray-robed men sits, bound, not far from this group.
The group is quickly noticed and approached by a similarly armed group and an officer with a large, droopy black moustache, short cropped hair, and a somewhat haggard demeanor. Explanations are quickly made and evidence proffered; the man shakes his head. "This makes some things make all too much sense. I may be getting a promotion I didn't really want once we get all this sorted out." One of the guards checks Egarthis' bonds and leads him off to join the others. The black robed man gives Amadea one last glance, the expression on his face unreadable.
He offers his own explanations, saying that an elf and a sorceress showed up at a nearby station and summoned them. By the time they arrived they caught several priests emerging from the inn across from the temple, one of whom quickly folded. Evidently the group Egarthis sent to find the 'invaders' discovered Krant's death and fled through a secret tunnel connected to the inn (which is likely how the group was transported once drugged)
A short time afterward several of the white robed initiates emerged, many of them seeking help and sharing stories of mistreatment, imprisonment, and coercion to remain with the cult. The watchmen were debating how to approach the problem when the group emerged.
"I'm sorry you had to be a part of this," the mustachioed guardsman says. "Tamran's always seeing bad times, and we all saw that there was a lot of coin flowing out of the Razmiran's pockets and into the city. Through legal ways too, I mean. Just... didn't know where it come from," he says, shaking his head again. "We're gonna try and get most of this stuff back where it belongs, but you all certainly deserve a reward as well."
The guards question the group a little more before saying they're free to go. A familiar face calls to them from the doorway of The Ranger's Lament. Reginar, the Pathfinder contact who suggested they look into the temple, waves them over and inside.
He gestures to a table where he has an array of beverages and food set out. "The owner of this place was in on it the whole time, it seems. Everything belongs to the city, now, and I don't think they'll mind if you help yourselves." He takes the leg from some fowl and helps himself, swallows, and adds, "I promised it's not poisoned this time." Looking it over, the fare does look like leftovers of what the group had eaten earlier in the day.
Reginar eats slowly, spending much of his time listening to the story intently. Once it's shared, he pushes his plate away and leans forward. "I confess, you did more and quicker than I ever could have. I - and the Pathfinders - can't thank you enough. Coin's not enough to express that, but it's a start," he says as he throws some heavily-laden bags on the table. "The guard out there's a good man - word's going to be reaching Forest Marshal Gavirk soon. Razmir's foul cult should be outlawed by morning, and if we find anybody else not in custody, we'll fix that."
He leans back again, grabbing a napkin to clear his hands of grease. "If you're looking to chase down Iramine, I'm afraid to say my part in this is through - you've got more intel than I could have, and my personal opinion is she's already dead or way out of my league. My concern is going to be redistributing what they took and, some day, trying to check their expansion into the other nations around Lake Encarthan."
He breathes deeply and finishes. "Honestly, I won't rest easy until I know for sure that the b&%$* who started all this is dealt with. If you find her and get back from the Isle of Terror alive, I'd like to know. Erastil, Torag, and whomever else might be watching be with you if you do decide to go."
If anybody has further questions/request/etc. now is the time to air them; otherwise I'll pull a time skip and move to finding passage to the Isle of Terror, which puts us firmly into the third adventure, City of Golden Death.
Also the amount of your reward is left intentionally vague because it seems absolutely silly to be handing out that much GP, but as I said in the other thread, the total is 4,500 gp
"Whoo-hoo! Food!" Garik dives in like he hasn't eaten in like three days even though it's probably been no more than three hours. "Don'tcha be for worryin', we're gonna find 'er. It's what we do." He winks, grinning, as he takes a big ol' bite of some form of meat.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
At the end of the meal, Reginar urges the group to take a day to rest, recuperate, and restock for the journey ahead. He also asks them to meet him at dawn at the docks on the day after that.
On the appointed day, the group arrives to find Reginar pacing back and forth before a familiar flat-bottomed river barge. The Pathfinder catches sight of them almost immediately and waves the party over.
"Not long ago, I'd say that it was a shame that young folks like yourselves would be sent to the gods-forsaken hole that is the Isle of Terror. After how you handled yourself with the cultists, well..." he sighs heavily. "It's still likely one of the most dangerous things you will ever do. I took the time to read all of what was left behind by Iramine, and learned what I could about what the Society knows. There isn't much, but it's the best I could do."
He assumes a slightly different posture and tone of voice, a rolling cadence that allows him to speak quickly without sacrificing clarity. "The amulet Iramine has reassembled is evidently a key to Xin-Grafar, the City of Golden Death. This was actually the treasure-city of the Whispering Tyrant, thousands of years ago, when he was but a mortal wizard-king. Like much of his territory, he acquired it through conquest, and he used the knowledgeable arcane scholars there to devise a trap for Aroden. He created a gaping pit to the Negative Energy Plane, which remains open to this day. That is why it is called the Isle of Terror."
He returns to his former style of speech, the history lesson over. "Several Pathfinders have gone to the Isle, but few have returned. What we do know is that the landscape is twisted, the animals mutated and the plants poisonous due to the massive planar breach. There are horrific storms much of the time, extending far enough out into the Lake that few dare even pass near it."
"I don't know what you'll find, but I know that it will be dangerous. Iramine must be brought to justice, and we cannot let her have whatever is in the city."
A familiar dwarf approaches, having come out of the barge's cabin while Reginar spoke. Captain Walren gives a great smile and offers his hand to whomever will take it. "It'll be a pleasure to be takin' you wherever you're needin' to go," he says. "I've you to thank for my own safety, not to mention that of the Black Mist."
Reginar regards him with a grim expression. "You'll be taking them to Fort Landing."
The dwarf is clearly taken aback, but his shock is only momentary. He strokes his beard thoughtfully before saying, "The Isle of Terror, eh? Why not? I hear this lot's doing well for themselves. Ewem and I can get you there, rest assured. We're ready to leave anytime."
Reginar nods. "If you have any more questions, preparations, or concerns, now is the time."
Thus we begin The City of Golden Death. I'll give folks the weekend to finalize gear and level-ups (with a bit of grace period) before moving on with the excursion itself. And feel free to query Reginar with whatever, of course.
"I'm not for any questioning. Let's get ta moving and catch up with the crazy lady. Maybe we can be done by dinner. I'm startin' ta get a tad hungry." He states as a matter of fact.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Reginar nods. "Time is of the essence, yes. Gods be with you," the man says as he steps back.
Captain Walren ushers the group aboard, the barge seeming larger now that the party has shrunken some. There are cots in the cabin again, and the space is shared with Walren and his taciturn Kellid deckhand, Ewem. The first five days are slow and uneventful travel along the southern shore of the lake, with the captain explaining that his barge isn't a true lake craft; he would prefer to stay close to shore until it's absolutely necessary.
At breakfast of the sixth day, the Captain announces they're turning north, and that the party would be best served by remaining in the cabin. He indicates some buckets set aside should anybody feel unable to keep their meal down. The waters quickly prove tumultuous, the barge riding high on one wave only to crash into the valley of the next. Despite the rough waters and dark skies, there doesn't seem to be an actual storm brewing as yet.
A full day and night of this and the barge comes along the island, which mostly consists of high sea-cliffs. The waters start to calm as the sky grows gradually brighter through the cloud cover, and a half-moon bay comes into sight.
"Aroden's Landing," Walren says, more than a hint of relief in his voice. He brings the barge as close as he can and directs the group to a smaller boat. "Too rocky to risk the barge. We'll have to cross in that." Fortunately, the waters are calm enough that the passage is less arduous than the journey on the barge itself.
As they reach the white-sand beach, Walren explains as the group disembarks. "I can only wait ten days for you, I'm sad to say. You make two fires, a couple hundred feet apart, and that'll be the signal for me to come pick ya up. Want to make sure I won't be sailing in to find some cultists should things go south," he says his tone serious. "All the luck on Golarion to you. You'll need it."
A chill wind picks up from the east as the Captain rows back out to his barge. A few hundred feet from the beach is a small stone fortress, sand-blasted and partially collapsed. Still, it is the most obvious shelter within sight. The remains of a firepit just within the walls can be seen clearly from the group's current vantage.
Let me know how you approach.
"Don'tcha be for worryin'; we'll be for lightin' those fires." He nods affirmatively as they take their leave.
"Well, well, it looks as if we found her camp. At least, what's left of it. Let us investigate, shall we?" Garik draws his weapons out and approaches the shelter cautiously.
Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (3) + 9 = 12 Terrible. Take 10 maybe?
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
Amadea steps forward, her bow held before her, arrow set upon the string. Carefully she observes the fire pit and the area around it, systematically reviewing all that happened here in her mind.
Survival to Track: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (2) - 1 = 1 (I forget sometimes that I am not a ranger)
Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (19) + 11 = 30
Looking at the tracks upon the ground, Amadea is confused beyond belief and can make no heads or tails of what might have taken place here. However, she is able to take in every detail of where each item within the encampment lies.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
The party crosses to the fort, with Garik and Amadea examining the site. The tracks, such as they are, are of absolutely no help to Amadea. It's uncertain whether there were few people in the party, they attempted to cover their tracks, or if the site has been left behind long enough that the isle's fierce, unpredictable weather has wiped away most of the signs.
The fort itself is a maze of ruins; there's a little shelter from the wind thanks to the height of the walls, but there are few sections of roof remaining. As the two look around, they discover some recently-dug earth under one such overhang. By Amadea's guess, they're likely a pair of graves.
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
Morthos nods towards the graves.
"What do you think - some of the force we are chasing, or another party?"
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
"I don't imagine many have any cause to come here. The place is not invitingly named. Best to assume that these are some of our quarry's underlings, disposed of after facing some threat."
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
"Yes, but *what* threat? We have not seen any signs of combat, thus far..."
"Maybe they're not graves. Maybe they're just hidin' somethin' in there. Ya know, like treasure." Garik shrugs. "It's possible they're just wantin' us to think they're graves instead of a treasure hoard. Or maybe they're traps! Oooooh, they could be traps. Traps full of treasure!" Garik loses himself a moment at the possibilities as he daydreams. Shaking himself out of his reverie, "Okay, now I've gone 'n got meself curious. Shouldn't we check? Ya think?" he asks somewhat tentatively.
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
"Hmmm... I must admit, now you have me interested, as well. Perhaps it would be worth having a quick check..."
Male Dwarf Wizard (Earth Elementalist) 2 (HP 16/16; AC:16 T:16 FF:14; Saves F:+1/+3 vs poison/+5 vs spells R:+2/+6 vs spells W:+4/+8 vs spells; CMB:+2 CMD:14 (see profile page for modifiers); Init:+2; Perc:+3; Spellcraft:+8){Effects: Mage Armor}
"Aye, it may not hurt t' check. Even if it's just bodies, we may find some clues as t' who they were an' how they died," Drosk suggests.
"Sounds good ta me." Garik moves to start digging up the "graves".
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
"Do not desecrate any bodies. If these are the final resting places of any sentient creature, we should treat them with respect. I will say prayers for them to make sure they have the guidance they need to find Pharasma's Boneyard."
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Garik doesn't have a lot of work to do - the graves are shallow enough that it's reasonable to think they aren't too old, at least if the island is home to any remotely natural scavengers.
The bodies are wrapped in traveling cloaks, and were lain to rest in the now-all-too-familiar iron masks of the Razmiri faith. There's no doubt that some of Iramine's underlings met a gruesome fate here, as even a casual examination shows numerous lacerations.
That that fate befell them within easy sight of where they likely started from is a bit unnerving.
To speed things along, folks can make another survival check if they desire and I'll use that once we're done with the bodies.
Survival: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26
Being careful so as not to disturb the deceased, Garik takes notice of the cuts. Looking a bit closer, "It looks like these folks we're taken down by animals of some sort. Wolves it appears. And like... a whole bunch of 'em. Or a whole bunch o' somethin' if not wolves." Rising up from the grave, "No treasure though. Well, now what?" he asks as he look around the place.
Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13
Survival #2: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
I'm going to push things along since I have fallen into the trap of waiting for more than one response to respond again.
Garik doesn't find much remarkable as he ambles around, until he begins to focus on tracks. There's a fairly clear trail leading through the ruined fort and out beyond it to the east. It's also clear that there are quite a few cultists - more than a dozen at the very least. Losing two was no major setback, likely.
The party, with no better clues, make their way to the east, Garik easily following the tracks. The weather remains gloomy but quite nice given the stories - the deeply overcast sky is reminiscent of twilight despite the early hour, and only an occasional gust of wind indicates anything like a storm.
Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (17) + 9 = 26
As the hair on the back of his neck stands out, Garik notices a couple of unwanted visitors. Leaning in close toward the others, "Aye. We've got us a couple of guests I'm sure we never invited. And they be lookin' like wolves but there's somethin' that just seems 'off' about 'em." Garik slowly draws his waraxe and his maulaxe, ready for trouble just in case. "I say we keep goin' 'til they make the first move. I'll not be for killin' wolves just 'cause they're wolves. At least, I'm hopin' that's all they are. Not sure what kind o' beasties live in these lands to be honest."
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
Morthos nods.
"Fair enough, I won't go out of my way to trigger battle, but if they be attacking, I be gettin' a new wolf-skin rug!"
"Aye. Can't blame ya for wantin' a new rug. Just make sure the lot o' ya keep your eyes peeled on 'em." Garik then resumes their trek, keeping one eye forward and one eye on the wolves.
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
1d20 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14
Amadea looks for the wolves, but even not seeing them herself, she trusts the word of her companions. She draws a broadhead arrow from her quiver and sets it to the string, moving her eyes about as she continues to walk, watching for any sign.
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
"Garik? Anything in the tracks that might indicate how long ago they passed this way?"
Garik ponders that a moment, "Hm. Let me take a look and see if I can tell. Good thinkin'."
Survival: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Wary of the wolves, the group continues on its way. Having covered significantly more tracks along the way, Garik figures that it's been roughly three days since the cultists passed this way. There's no sign that they've even attempted to cover their path, so apart from high winds and rain nothing has much altered the tracks.
About ten minutes after the Garik first sighted the wolves, the group notes that the pack splits up, one pair speeding up and heading off the path through some scrub brush. The remaining pair start to speed up as well, keeping low and apparently believing they are out of sight. There's little doubt that they're going to attack shortly.
The surrounding area is dominated by light brush and slightly muddy ground; the landscape seems to be trending towards a marshy low-land, though the ground is still reasonably solid at the current location.
I'll be piecing together a battle map over the weekend, though it's extremely likely I won't have it completely ready 'til Tuesday; I'll let you guys roll your own initiative and make whatever preparations you wish, since you've pretty well got the drop on the enemy.
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
Speaking softly Amadea asks, "Does anyone see a place with elevated ground that we might be able to use as a holdfast against the wolves? Charging up hill will slow them allowing me more time to take them with my arrows and giving our fighters the edge when the finally draw close."
Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (2) + 11 = 13
Survival to locate natural high ground: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (17) - 1 = 16
Initiative: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17
"Aye. We best make our defense quickly. It's lookin' like we're soon ta be dinner. I can tell ya right now, I'm not for tastin' good. I don't even like me own smell most of the time," he shrugs. Turning his attention to looking around for possible higher ground, Garik keeps his attention on the wolves, feeling they've little time to prepare.
Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27
Initiative: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (13) + 3 = 16
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
Morthos snorts.
"Well, I ain't up for being dinner, but they can certainly become a few new rugs, I be thinkin'!"
Initiative: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Scanning the horizon, it's pretty clear that there's not a rapid enough elevation close enough to cause any hindrance in a charge. There is, however, the opposite - an elongated pool of brackish water not too far north off the trail. Though only about twenty feet wide, it seems to be a slough making its way gently downhill for quite some distance. The party is able to slosh through well ahead of the wolves and set up defensive positions, though the beasts quickly realize they've been seen and give up any pretense of stealth. The barrier is long enough that the wolves would have to make a hopelessly long detour to make their way around the water.
The group the ground stands on is slightly muddy, as though there were a recent flood, but it shouldn't be hard to keep traction in a fight. The water, while just over knee deep, has a treacherously muddy bottom. Turning after their scramble through the mud, they find the first pair of wolves just arriving at the opposite side of the muck, and they take a few steps up and down, panting heavily. The other pair is several feet behind.
With a moment to contemplate the creatures closer, they are revealed to be not quite wolves. Their fur is jet black, and the apparent alpha has a curious, bulbous hunch in its back. The others all drool black ichor, and one seems to have an odd, mangled limb slung under its belly. This is the first sign the group has seen, apart from the nervewracking storms, that the Isle of Terror lives up to its name.
The wolves won initiative, but have used their turns to arrive at their current locations. I'll be NPCing Drosk and Bolkin for the moment.
MAP
INIT: Round 1
21 Wolf Pack
> 20 Morthos
17 Amadea
16 Garik
14 Drosk
6 Bolkin
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
Sorry!
Morthos holds his position, grasping his axe tightly, and warily regarding the wolves, waiting to see if they cross the difficult ground.
delay.
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
Amadea does not hesitate. She raises her bow and lets off two rapid shots, one at each of the wolves approaching on the group's right flank.
Deadly Aim and Rapid Shot
W1: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 251d8 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10
Confirm Critical: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7 Nope.
W2: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 121d8 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12
Garik readies himself to attack as soon as the wolves draw near.
Ready action to attack the first one that draws next to him.
Male Human Free Hand Fighter (3)
Oh boy, I knew I kept forgetting something. At least Zeb was gracious enough to shoot me a warning before I got NPC'd proper. Hopefully these lapses in posting become less frequent in the near future.
Knowing that trying to bring the fight directly to the wolves across the river was a poor idea without a bow of some sort, Bolkin moved to Amadea, far enough to not obstruct her aim, but close enough to provide assistance should the beasts decide she was the bigger threat.
Bolkin moves to O12 and readies a trip if a Wolf manages to get within attacking range
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
As the men prepare themselves for the onslaught, Amadea lets fly a pair of arrows, one sinking deep into the flanks of the apparent alpha wolf, the other being narrowly dodged by his companion. Drosk draws his sling and takes a shot that sails hopelessly wide.
The alpha emits a hideous sort of yelp with an almost otherworldly, high-pitched tone, causing hairs to stand on end.
The wolves, seeing their leader injured, come bounding up and snarl, hackles raised but apparently undeterred. They form up around it, preventing Amadea from getting a clear shot. Essentially W1 should have soft cover from Amadea unless she can maneuver herself somehow.
All of them seem wary for another ranged attack and seem to be ready to mount their own across the brackish water.
I assume Morthos delays back to his own init; likely this is just another chance for Amadea to take some shots before they make their way across the marsh.
Map updated
INIT: Round 2
21 Wolf Pack (W1: 10 HP damage)
> 20 Morthos
17 Amadea
16 Garik
14 Drosk
6 Bolkin
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
Wolves fear fire...
With a prayer and a hand in her bow and her heart, Amadea reaches inside herself to her sacred bond with Erastil, investing her bow with the power of Fire.
Divine Bond: Flaming property.
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
Morthos continues to wait patiently for the wolves to make a move...
Garik continues to keep his blades at the ready for the "wolves".
Continued ready action.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
As Erastil's warmth pours over Amadea, there is still a tinge of cold left by the strange appearance of these mutant, unnatural wolves.
Drosk launches another rock, striking one of the wolves guarding the wounded alpha a solid blow. Four damage to W3
The pack takes this as cause for an assault, moving at top speed through the brackish water to take up positions just on the other side of the muck. The alpha remains slightly behind, dark blood staining the water.
Map updated
INIT: Round 3
21 Wolf Pack (W1: 10 HP damage W3: 3 HP damage)
> 20 Morthos
17 Amadea
16 Garik
14 Drosk
6 Bolkin
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
Amadea takes aim at the unnatural predators and looses two shots, in quick succession, one at each of the two lead wolves. As they loose from the bow, each arrow bursts to life, becoming wreathed in an aura of fire.
Rapid Shot and Deadly Aim
W3: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
Damage: 1d8 + 7 + 1d6 ⇒ (4) + 7 + (4) = 15
W4: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17
Damage: 1d8 + 7 + 1d6 ⇒ (8) + 7 + (1) = 16
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
With a roar, Morthos moves forward (moving to P14), and takes a swing at one of the wolves.
+1 Silversheen Greataxe, Rage: 1d20 + 9 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 9 + 2 = 29, for 1d12 + 14 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 14 + 3 = 20 Magical, Silver, Slashing damage.
Garik takes a step over and attempts to aide his brethren in taking down the wolf.
5' step to P 13; Attack W4
+1 Waraxe, Dwarven w/PA: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 24
Damage: 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15
Mwk Maulaxe, Dwarven w/PA: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21
Damage: 1d6 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Well, that went quickly. I knew this wasn't supposed to be a difficult encounter, but even so... I took a little liberty with actions since the writing was on the wall.
Amadea's arrows fly true, one embedding itself in the neck of the one Drosk had already wounded and the second catching the beast next to it in the side, felling it.
The pair of dwarven barbarians, already charging as the first pair falls, redirect their attacks to the other two, Garik wading just a little into the muck to hit the alpha. Their axes make short work of the remaining mutant wolves.
As the dark blood stains the lowland water, the omnipresent dark clouds overhead seem to let loose with a dark, almost oily drizzle.
I'm already playing fast-and-loose with XP, but that was 400 XP per person; no loot. Unless we want to dwell on and/or vivisect them, I assume we're continuing to follow the tracks?
| HP 102/102 | AC 37 (T 24 FF 23 ) | CMD 31 AC 42 (T 24 FF 28)| F +18 | R +16 | W +14 | Init +4 | Per +19 Demon Spawn Tiefling Half-Marilith Bloodrager Eldritch Godling
Sounds good to me.
Should we be tracking experience, or will you just basically let us know when it is time to level up?
Pleased that went as well as it did, "Alright! Now that that's settled, let's keep movin'." Keeping his weapons out just in case, Garik returns to the task at hand.
Survival: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23 Continue to follow tracks as mentioned.
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
Morthos nods.
"Aye, the sooner we catch-up with these bastards, the sooner we can leave this place!"
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Apologies; time got away in another crunch-episode.
The journey eastwards continues uninhibited by anything living - in fact, without seeing any moving thing. The disgusting drizzle continues, and by the evening the group has witnessed at least three nearby 'lightning' strikes, though the bolts were dark and lacked any sort of flash. An unfortunate tree was blown to splinters by the first, though.
Though it's overcast, the light finally wanes enough that it becomes apparent that it's time to camp, and the weather worsens as if to insist upon it. The group sets watches and sleeps through a miserable, wet night on a slight hillock in what has advanced from lowland to full swamp.
In the morning, the group is wakens to a man trudging towards them through the muck, with his arms raised high and bearing no obvious weapons. About six feet tall, with a tangle of long, dirty red hair and a long red beard, he wears tattered, hole-ridden clothes soaked through with mud and stained black in many places. Even before he gets close, his stench precedes him—it’s not only as though he hasn’t bathed in years, but that he seems to have actually gone out of his way to cover himself in the most horrible smells the Isle of Terror has to offer: a blend of rotten eggs, human waste, and decaying organic matter. An arrow is lodged in the back of his right leg, but seems to cause him no pain as he sloshes through the waters of the swamp. Suddenly he stops.
His eyes go wide and he loudly exclaims, at the top of his lungs, “I found you!”
Male Dwarf Barbarian(Drunken Brute/Invulnerable Rager) 5
Morthos raises an eyebrow.
"Aye, and who exactly might you be?"
Is he insane, delirious, or both?
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Welcome, folks. This is for OoC chatter big and small.
As I said in the other thread, the first order of business is finishing up charsheets. If anybody is still a work in progress, lemme know, but otherwise I'll go over 'em with a fine toothed comb.
I'll put up the IC thread later on. I'm considering starting with the morning of the ceremony in the interests of getting things off to a quick start. That should let everyone get in a few rounds of in-character reactions as they gather for their quest. My main reason for not going ahead and putting it up is so you guys can mingle here in the OoC and come up with any in-character connections you wished.
Male Half Orc Savage Skald Bard 1
Hi everyone! Glad to be playing with the rest of you. Ironically though tonight I'm heading out to my rl game to play my oread alchemist but I'm excited to play with you all when I get back. :)
Male Human Free Hand Fighter (3)
Hey yeah, it's good to be doing this with the rest of you. I'm interested in seeing how the party dynamics will play out, especially since our group seems to be largely Chaotic.
My charsheet is already more or less finished at this point, but if anyone wants to coordinate certain details (backstory, teamwork feats, etc.), then I'm all ears.
Male Elf Rogue 3
Hey everyone! Happy to be here!
I've got some equipment to stat out, and I'll update my profile to show more of the crunchy bits after my son's b-day tomorrow.
As for backstory and connections, I can certainly see Telperion being fascinated by Grukk and his stories. He might have been seen standing uncomfortably in the crowd, trying to memorize every word of the war chanters tales. He might even have stepped in to refute, with accurate references of course, any claim that the half-orc was telling of false deeds.
Raven and/or Bolkin could have taken his lunch money. :-)
Male Human Free Hand Fighter (3)
Telperion Anastra wrote: Raven and/or Bolkin could have taken his lunch money. :-) While this sounds interesting, I doubt it'd be a very Bolkin thing to do. He fights for the thrill of fighting, constantly seeking worthy foes to prove himself against. Unless there's a good reason for it, beating up and extorting what he believes to be the weak and defenseless isn't his style; he just doesn't see the fun or challenge in it.
Of course, if he acknowledged Telperion as a capable fighter, he may have smacked him about once or twice out of principle.
I'll probably update Bolkin's charsheet to go more in-depth with his personality when I get the time.
female Human Fey Sor2
Thanks for selecting Raven!
I kind of imagine the Vargidan family as the weird family in the community. Everyone is polite to them, but talk about them behind their backs because the father's so eccentric and none of the children have a mother around (and few of them are full siblings). Oh, and all the kids are natural spellcasters - that's kinda scary. The whole family is effectively outcast. Children were warned not to play with the Vargidan kids, so the Vargidan kids had a largely insular upbringing.
It sounds like a pretty small town (correct me if I'm wrong),though, so I imagine any characters who have lived there several years would know each other, at least by reputation. If any of them are within about 3 years of 16 (or similar maturity level, for non-humans), Raven may have had some more interaction with them.
Male Dwarf Barbarian / Level 1
Yey! Thanks for choosing Garik to be part of the team.This is gonna be my first PbP & am very glad to be with such interesting characters :)
This is just a short note as am just using my celfone(i just couldnt wait for monday & had to peek to see if Garik was in).I guess my background would have to change a bit as surely Drosk & Garik know each other. I would like to think that Drosk is a positive influence to Garik & is actually his only friend so far in kassen.I was thinking that Garik has only been living in kassen for a little more than a year.
Well drosk i'm open to other suggestions on our character's background since we are the ones that obviously know each other.Of course i'm also open to the rest of the group's suggestion.
My take on Garik is he is at a time when he could be influenced to be consumed by his revenge or be influenced positively by an adventurous group such as ours(but of course i'd like still very much that he finish his business wid kurmog eventually hehehe)
Well that wasnt a short note after all...i'll be back on monday. And zeb,thanks again for the opportunity. Looking forward to an enjoyable gaming with you all!
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
You're right on the money, Raven - that's pretty much how the town feels about the Vargidans. The town has a population of 750, so it's safe to assume most of you know at least of each other. Most of you have a fairly conspicuous reputation, too.
Glad you got a chance to check in instead of spending the weekend in anticipation, Garik. As soon as you posted I thought there'd be an interesting tie-in with Drosk and I think that's a great idea. Anyway, happy to have you.
Male Elf Rogue 3
Bolkin Reid wrote: [Bolkin] fights for the thrill of fighting, constantly seeking worthy foes to prove himself against....
Of course, if he acknowledged Telperion as a capable fighter, he may have smacked him about once or twice out of principle.
Telperion is a capable fencer, and he might have been looking for a practice partner in this small town. Perhaps they've been training together for a while. Telperion would certainly have a strong intellectual interest in a less formal style of fighting. A typical early training session: "Is that even allowed?" the elf asked, genuinely curious, wiping sand from his blinking eyes with his sleeve. He took Bolkin's laughter as a "Yes".
Male Human Free Hand Fighter (3)
Telperion Anastra wrote: Bolkin Reid wrote: [Bolkin] fights for the thrill of fighting, constantly seeking worthy foes to prove himself against....
Of course, if he acknowledged Telperion as a capable fighter, he may have smacked him about once or twice out of principle. Telperion is a capable fencer, and he might have been looking for a practice partner in this small town. Perhaps they've been training together for a while. Telperion would certainly have a strong intellectual interest in a less formal style of fighting. A typical early training session: "Is that even allowed?" the elf asked, genuinely curious, wiping sand from his blinking eyes with his sleeve. He took Bolkin's laughter as a "Yes". That certainly seems pretty in-line with what Bolkin might do, yeah.
Also, I added a couple more details regarding his personality to his charsheet (and updated his inventory to reflect said details).
Male Half Orc Savage Skald Bard 1
I really hope that Drosk is still in with us. Haven't seen too many posts from him.
Telperion sounds like the type of person that would just get on Grukk's nerves from correcting him too many times and butting in. Also steal my lunch money, you get the lumps. *intimidate* In any case he would gladly try to show himself as a better combatant than the elf.
If Garik is the drunk kind of dwarf and not a sober wise one, we would get along great! Singing drinking songs and hitting on the ladies. Woohoo!
female Human Fey Sor2
How close to Kassen is the crypt? I'm wondering how much gear we'd need to plan on carrying, if applicable (camping, rations, etc).
Male Elf Rogue 3
Raven Vargidan wrote: How close to Kassen is the crypt? I'm wondering how much gear we'd need to plan on carrying, if applicable (camping, rations, etc). Good question.
@Zeb: I plan on having two equipment load-outs, one with backpack, one sans-backpack. I'll note loads, etc on my profile. Do you want inventories managed via the profile, or is the character sheet file OK?
Finally, can someone show me how to use the BBCode tags to label the spoiler buttons with something other than "Spoiler", please? Checked FAQ and didn't see it. Tried using "reply" to steal tags, but it seems to drop those in the quote script.
female Human Fey Sor2
Telperion Anastra wrote: Finally, can someone show me how to use the BBCode tags to label the spoiler buttons with something other than "Spoiler", please? In the opening brackets, do "spoiler=what you want spoiler to say".
Male Elf Rogue 3
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
The crypt is about 40 miles south (so if things go smoothly you should get there towards the end of Day 2 of travel.)
Basic equipment is handed out as part of the ceremony; since a lot of folks have already or are currently kitting themselves out, I'm just going to assume that everybody had a say as to what went into their packs. (So once the IC goes up - I'll do that tomorrow - you'll just have what you'd normally carry - armor, weapons, etc. - receiving adventuring gear is sort of ritualized.)
I wouldn't worry too much about Drosk, since it's still the weekend. If he doesn't show up in a couple of days I'll be concerned, though.
I'm fine with tracking your inventory either way, Tel. Whichever's more convenient for you.
Male Dwarf Wizard (Earth Elementalist) 2 (HP 16/16; AC:16 T:16 FF:14; Saves F:+1/+3 vs poison/+5 vs spells R:+2/+6 vs spells W:+4/+8 vs spells; CMB:+2 CMD:14 (see profile page for modifiers); Init:+2; Perc:+3; Spellcraft:+8){Effects: Mage Armor}
Sorry for the lack of posting. Last week was holy hell at work, and yesterday the wife left for a four-day conference - leaving me home alone with the 3 kids (ages 2, 4, and 7). So this is the first chance I've had to get on the boards for a while (thank goodness they're finally asleep - at least for now)!
Thanks for selecting me to be part of the party - this looks like a great group of players and characters!
I'd say that Drosk and Garik definitely know each other since Garik's apprenticed to Drosk's uncle, Braggar. There may be a bit of good-natured competitiveness between the two, but Drosk realizes that Garik is the more skilled craftsman of the two (and the more worldly traveler), and hopes to learn a thing or two from the young barbarian. Drosk feels more comfortable about the Quest for the Everflame knowing that Garik will be along.
With respect to the other characters, I'd assume they would all at least know of Drosk since he splits his time between Braggar's smithy and Father Prasst's temple. He's also been known to frequent the Seven Silvers tavern - probably draggin Garik with him to help bring the newcomer out of his shell.
Male Human Free Hand Fighter (3)
In regards to inter-party interaction, it seems a good part of our group has frequented the local tavern, Bolkin included. I also imagine that Bolkin knows pretty much everyone in town, if not personally then through the collection of hastily-scribbled notes and rumors he keeps in his journal.
female Human Fey Sor2
I noticed Telperion's mentor is the wizard. Is Telperion going to continue as a rogue? Or is he going to go arcane trickster? If Raven embraces sorcery, I was going to try to write her into appreciating battlefield control spells, but if you were planning on Telperion covering that, I can make her a blaster.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
If Telperion's not going arcane trickster I'll eat my hat. Magical Knack wouldn't be doing much good for the minor or major magic talents, that's for sure.
And sounds like a fun weekend, Drosk, heheh. Glad to have you here.
The game is up. If you guys want to write up interactions with whichever NPCs you wish as a preface to your arrival at the square, feel free. Apart from that this is a chance to meet and react to each other in-character. When you guys are ready I'll move on to the ceremony proper.
edit:
Here's a more obvious link in case anybody has to find it later:
DM Zeb's Crypt of the Everflame PbP
Male Elf Rogue 3
Telperion will be heading for arcane trickster. (Your hat is safe ZebulonXenos.)
@Raven: I'll be shooting for Rogue3/Diviner3. As a wizard, I'll have wider spell selection options than you, so I'll follow your lead. My opposition schools will be enchantment and necromancy. Outside of divination, I'll get some ray/touch stuff that will support my role as a flanking/sneak attack/finesse guy.
Of course, now that I've planned out several levels, he'll die in the first encounter. Ha! Heh. Eh.
Male Dwarf Barbarian / Level 1
Drosk Ironhame wrote: Sorry for the lack of posting...I'd say that Drosk and Garik definitely know each other since Garik's apprenticed to Drosk's uncle, Braggar. There may be a bit of good-natured competitiveness between the two, but Drosk realizes that Garik is the more skilled craftsman of the two (and the more worldly traveler), and hopes to learn a thing or two from the young barbarian. Drosk feels more comfortable about the Quest for the Everflame knowing that Garik will be along....
He's also been known to frequent the Seven Silvers tavern - probably draggin Garik with him to help bring the newcomer out of his shell.
I feel you Drosk...real life caught up with me as well and I was not online monday (that is here in HK time) and Zeb upped our PbP already and most of the team are there already. Ok before I post mine I totally agree with your assessment in the post.
To update Garik's background: His only friend right now is Drosk with whom he has a friendly competition in weaponsmithing and has a high respect for Drosk and his uncle. These two are the only one he trusts right now but is really open-minded to anyone as long as they get pass his looks (and of course, he gets passed as well his self-conscious manner). He had been in the tavern frequently due to Drosk's prodding and is well aware of the half-orc bard and finds the good natured bard very interesting and entertaining. Garik is only discovering his appetite for drinking and is finding it liberating as long as he is with companions he likes (so Grukk on that point Garik will get along with you for sure; i think you're actually the drinking mentor he doesn't just know yet hahaha!) Garik is also familiar with the rest of the team as he had seen them in the tavern occassionally except of course Raven whom he knows by her family's reputation. Garik actually relates to how the family is treated as he himself is also somewhat treated "strangely" by the townsfolk sometimes.
Drosk, for the first meet-up at the plaza i'll be assuming that Garik and Drosk will not be going to the plaza together. Garik feels the same way as Drosk for being chosen as well. He feels more comfortable to be with the group knowing he has Drosk with him.
will post later in the main site.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
I'm sure that 11 CON seemed like a great idea at the time, Tel. :p
Great stuff so far everybody. Garik is probably still viewed as an outsider by most of the town, so I'm sure they'd treat him strange even if he was perfectly well adjusted, so that's right on the money.
Anyway I'll be reading but not posting. When you're ready to move on just give me a good nudge.
Male Human Free Hand Fighter (3)
I just wanted to point out that with 8 HP, Telperion is pretty much the most fragile member of our group, and if he does live long enough to taking levels in Wizard/Arcane Trickster, his situation won't exactly be getting better.
I imagine he's going to be getting a good deal of mileage out of that shortbow of his for a while.
Male Dwarf Barbarian / Level 1
Hi guys! Just checking in for the day. I'll be back on monday in case Garik's quiet for the next days. It's friday night here by the way and have to go offline already.
ZebulonXenos wrote: Great stuff so far everybody Agreed here. I'm liking the diversity of the group. This'll be fun!
Male Elf Rogue 3
Just checking in as well. Have a good Friday everyone.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Yeah, have a nice weekend folks. Those of you who still have the access and the time can certainly keep on (and I'll be here in case someone thinks of a knowledge check they haven't made yet, heh) but it looks to me like things are slowing down and we're ready to move on to the adventure proper. I'll probably wait 'til Monday to do that for Garik's benefit, though.
female Human Fey Sor2
I'm ready to progress, but I rarely have time to post on weekends, as well.
Male Human Free Hand Fighter (3)
I'm also ready to progress when everyone else is.
As a side note, I should still be able to post on weekends if I'm needed for anything.
Male Half Orc Savage Skald Bard 1
I'm ready to progress as well, I give out my info for my knowledge check when it is relevant, meaning that when we actually head out of town.
Ill be able to post in the morning and late late at night over the weekend.
Male Dwarf Barbarian / Level 1
Checking in; it's monday morning here already :) I'm ok to progress as well if evryone's ok. "Let's hunt some orc." or "kobolds,goblins...whatever the crypt will bring...hmmm...crypt? skeletons,zombies then..." :)
Male Dwarf Wizard (Earth Elementalist) 2 (HP 16/16; AC:16 T:16 FF:14; Saves F:+1/+3 vs poison/+5 vs spells R:+2/+6 vs spells W:+4/+8 vs spells; CMB:+2 CMD:14 (see profile page for modifiers); Init:+2; Perc:+3; Spellcraft:+8){Effects: Mage Armor}
Yeah, let's go see what we can "dig up..." :)
Male Dwarf Barbarian / Level 1
Drosk Ironhame wrote: Yeah, let's go see what we can "dig up..." :) "....and pound to thin sheets in our forge...hahaha :D "
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Hah. Well we're certainly ready to roll. Or ready to get ready to roll, anyway.
Male Half Orc Savage Skald Bard 1
I totally thought up an awesome speech the other night and then I forgot it when I went to type it in. ARRGH
Male Elf Rogue 3
Grukk Tornlock wrote: I totally thought up an awesome speech the other night and then I forgot it when I went to type it in. ARRGH I hate it when that happens. But I enjoyed the one you did remember, too. I'm looking forward to seeing Grukk in a combat situation. He's an intriguing character.
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Really liking what you guys've got so far. I've waited on Drosk a day already, but if he doesn't post relatively soon I think I'll NPC him a bit and move on with the ceremony.
Male Human Free Hand Fighter (3)
I have to agree. While it would be nice to see Drosk post, it's probably for the better that we keep things rolling before people start to lose interest. Plus it's not like our current bout of silliness (perhaps not COMPLETE silliness but I wouldn't call it a super-serious affair either) is something major that demands everyone's input.
Male Dwarf Barbarian / Level 1
Telperion Anastra wrote: I hate it when that happens. But I enjoyed the one you did remember, too. I'm looking forward to seeing Grukk in a combat situation. He's an intriguing character. I was actually laughing at Tel's salute & short quip at the end. You really have a fully realized character there! :D
Male Dwarf Barbarian / Level 1
Hi Zeb, I updated Garik's profile to reflect the items he got from the ceremony. It's just actually his starting items less his weaponsmith's tools. I'll be signing off for the day shortly.
Male Elf Rogue 3
I'm in a bit of a rush this morning, so I just gave a short post to make sure no one was waiting on me. Any marching order is fine.
Woo hoo! Heading out of town!
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
I didn't say it, but Telperion's flashy physical display mixed with incredibly awkward dialogue at the end did actually cause me to laugh out loud. It's fun to have socially awkward characters in a more 'realistic', self-conscious vein rather than the gruff loner type. And we've got two!
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
I'm gonna wait 'til tomorrow to post up the next bit just so everybody's on roughly the same footing. Plus I've got a relatively packed weekend myself.
Male Elf Rogue 3
@Garik:
I see your "2" for Initiative and raise you a "1". Beat that!
:-)
Distracted by dead leaves. So sad.
Male Dwarf Barbarian / Level 1
Telperion Anastra wrote: @Garik:
I see your "2" for Initiative and raise you a "1". Beat that!
:-)
Distracted by dead leaves. So sad.
Yeah! Garik rests his tedious self-conscious manner to that roll :D That was actually the second time Telp gave me a laugh and the dead leaves monologue was so apt to that "1" roll LOL
Male Human L3 College Student / L1 Novice DM
Well we hit our 50th post Sunday and we're keeping momentum thus far. I mainly bring it up because this game was originally spawned from the games tanking in 35 posts thread. Here's hoping for many more pages to come!
Male Dwarf Barbarian / Level 1
Hi guys, I might be late in posting for Garik as I've to take care of some RL things. Expect to hear from Garik late wednesday night of your time zone. thanks!
ZebulonXenos wrote: Here's hoping for many more pages to come! Same here, Zeb :) This group's such a bunch of fun and interesting characters, hope they "grow up together", indeed!
Male Elf Rogue 3
Zeb wrote: Here's hoping for many more pages to come! I second that emotion! Good work everyone, I'm looking forward to more!
Male Human Free Hand Fighter (3)
Yeah, I agree. We've got a pretty neat group, and I'd like to see how long we can keep this going.
Male Half Orc Savage Skald Bard 1
Hope we can take this much much further. Though if Zeb makes another roll like he just did the party will be out some moral support. Had fun roleplaying that reaction though, its the same that I have had when waking up from the occasional death nightmares.
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