Mantisbane Pact with GM Zek

Game Master Zektolna

"Not cool, y'all need to chill out!" drawled Talivar as he uncorked a vial of urea and poured it out. The contents floated in mid air before sublimating into gas with a sudden hiss. He closed his fist and concentrated, and the gasses condensed into a tiny ball of ice. With a flick of his hand it sped towards the group of Kobolds before detonating with a dull KRUMP! A maelstrom of ice and snow engulfed the quartet of goblins and much of rhe bridge.

Cold Fireball with urea: 8d6 + 8 ⇒ (6, 3, 2, 1, 1, 1, 4, 2) + 8 = 28 Reflex DC 19 for half, aimed to hit only them.

Talia immediately casts Black Tentacles on the entire group of Kobolds, creating dozens of tentacles that wormed their way up and started crushing them.
The kobolds cries echo through the chamber as they’re all grappled by the shaman’s writhing tentacles. They start to be crushed by them.

Talivar drawled, "Not cool, y'all need to chill out!" as he uncorked a vial of urea and poured it out. The contents floated in mid air before sublimating into gas with a sudden hiss. He closed his fist and concentrated, and the gasses condensed into a tiny ball of ice. With a flick of his hand it sped towards the group of Kobolds before detonating with a dull KRUMP! A maelstrom of ice and snow engulfed the quartet of goblins and much of the bridge. The grey, blue, and green kobolds take the full blast, but the yellow kobold looks completely unaffected.

Grey Kobold, despite being grappled, ignores his predicament for the moment and swings at the rope beside him. He connects and slices clean through the flimsy rope. Grey Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (16) + 12 - 2 - 2 = 24

Yellow Kobold slashes at the rope next to him as well and slices through it. The kobolds’ side of the bridge falls before clanging against your side of the chasm. Yellow Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (5) + 12 - 2 - 2 = 13

Blue Kobold tries to break out of its grapple. It manages to extricate itself from the flailing tentacles before running out of the chamber and out of sight. “I’ll get help,” you hear him shout as he leaves. Blue CMB Check: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25

Green Kobold tries to break out of its grapple as well. It also manages to break free. It hesitates for a moment, considering the situation, before bolting down the tunnel, following after the Blue kobold and disappearing from sight. Green CMB Check: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27

Everyone can act! Bottom of round 1 and top of round 2. The bridge is now down.

Just clarifying GM that Black Tentackes is 20 foot radius and difficult terrain. Just how fast are these dudes :/

They might technically still be on the map as you see it, though they would be around the corner and out of sight. I think to have gotten all four originally, you wouldn't be able to extend it all the way down the tunnel they fled down.

Uruelleth roars in frustration as the rope bridge is cut. He switches over to his bow and sends an arrow at the gray kobold

Ranged: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29
Damage, as: 1d8 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 3 + 2 = 11

Kilarra scoffs as she pulls out her bow and fires a pair of arrows at the yellow kobold.

Ranged Attack: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (7) + 12 = 19
Piercing Damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7

Ranged Attack: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23
Piercing Damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6

I'm assuming the talker is one of the kobolds running

"Look at that, all his talk about being a fighter and hes running away like the coward he is, at the first opportunity." Talia taunts, her mocking voice following the fleeing kobolds down the corridor.

"Have fun looking over your shoulder for the rest of your life. Enjoy those precious hours before I catch up with you and make you suffer" she snarls before taking out her frustrations on the remaining kobolds, hitting the Yellow Kobold with an Evil Eye hex (-2 to skill checks, ie Escape Artist).

Black Tentacles: 1d20 + 1 + 7 + 4 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 1 + 7 + 4 + 5 = 19

Damage: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7
Damage: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7

The ice coating Talivar's fists crunched as he balled them into fists with annoyance as the bridge rope is cut through. The vial of urea in his right fist shattered, and it's contents turned to vapor. He felt a tremendous force welling up inside of him and he thrust out both hands, and a jet of ice and water lanced out to spray the Kobold who cut through the rope, with some of it soaking the other one for good measure!

Talivar casts cold Burning Arc.
Grey: Cold burning arc with urea: 10d6 + 10 ⇒ (1, 4, 2, 4, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 1) + 10 = 33 DC18 reflex for half.
Yellow: Cold burning arc with urea: 5d6 + 5 ⇒ (4, 6, 6, 1, 5) + 5 = 27 DC16 reflex for half.

Uruelleth roars in frustration as the rope bridge is cut. He switches over to his bow and sends an arrow at the gray kobold. The arrow finds its target and pierces deep into the kobold’s shoulder.

Kilarra scoffs as she pulls out her bow and fires a pair of arrows at the yellow kobold. With the tentacles constricting the kobold’s movement, it takes both arrows in an arm and a leg.

Talia’s tentacles continue to constrict and damage the kobolds. She also hexes the yellow kobold. Yellow Will Save: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7

Talivar’s fist are coated in ice. They crunch as he balled them into fists with annoyance as the bridge rope is cut through. The vial of urea in his right fist shattered, and it's contents turned to vapor. He felt a tremendous force welling up inside of him and he thrust out both hands, and a jet of ice and water lanced out to spray the Kobold who cut through the rope, with some of it soaking the other one for good measure! The grey kobold somehow avoids the blast entirely, but the yellow kobold takes the full effect of his part of the spell. The yellow kobold seems to be barely clinging to life. Grey Reflex Save: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (19) + 10 - 2 = 27Yellow Reflex Save: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 10 - 2 = 11

The remaining kobolds won’t be able to make it out of the area of the Black Tentacles even if they escape the grapple this round, so I assume you’ll finish them off next round. As such, we’ll go ahead and end the combat there.

Also note that there are actually two routes leading off the other side of the chamber (though I realize one couldn't be seen earlier as too much of the map was blacked out). The blue and green kobolds fled down the leftmost path.

As the sounds of combat fade, you think you can still hear the shouts of the two kobolds who fled echoing from out of the chamber. Your way forward seems to be barred in lieu of finding another way across the chasm.

Talia gestures at the destroyed bridge.

"Unfortunate that they managed to cut it, but I think our hand was forced when they refused to compromise even to let us cross safely."

"If we want to press onward, we can, but I'm out of high level spell slots, so if there is a group of more of them - and I suspect that their might be - I won't be of much help. I'd prefer coming back tomorrow - as they are unlikely to be able to easily replenish their numbers within 24 hours, and I could use my new spells to easily cross the cavern. Alternatively, if everyone else have abilities to spare, feel free to press on, just remember my warning and don't rely on me too much"

Stowing his weapons for the time being, Uruelleth looks around at the chasm and the distance across.

Zek, since the map isn't entirely correct, would you say there's about a 10' path leading up to the edge? And I'm guessing from the map that it's about 25 feet across. Is that correct?

Uruelleth paces in the limited space and notes his magical footwear. "You know," he says after a moment, "I might be able to jump this with one of those haste spells on me."

"That could have went better." Vorya says, eyeing the chasm. "Talia, I would hate to wait a night. Who knows what they will do with that long to prepare. Not only more traps and dangers, but simply fleeing with our quarry. I don't want to have to dig them out of every bolt-hole in the city."

He turns to Uruelleth. "And if you don't make it?"

Uruelleth shrugs as he looks at Vorya. "Then I'll have to learn how to fly--" His eyes go wide and he smacks his forehead.

"Fly! I have a potion!"

He digs around in his belt pouches and produces a small flask.

Uruelleth, yes, it’s fair to say there’s at least 10’ leading up to the edge. And yes, it’s 25’ ft across.

Nonplussed about how thing had just gone, Talivar has his hands on his hips as he drawls, "Now that I gotta see."

Kilarra rolls her eyes at Talia and scoffs. "You always complaining you don't have the enough spells, or the right spells."

Kilarra looks at the group. "We should press on." Then she smirks and raises an eyebrow at Ruel. "Think you can ferry us across one at a time, Ruel?"

Up to y'all as to how you proceed. Uruelleth, if you intend to try ferrying people across, you'll need to make a Strength check for each person when doing so. Everyone else, if you agree to be ferried, you can also make a Strength check to try to hold onto the bloodrager as you go over the chasm.

If we have rope, can we fashion a bridge with Uruelleth's flight?

You could certainly try. He'd need to tie it to the same points as before, so that would involve some sort of check... Escape Artist or Disable Device, maybe. Also keep in mind that most of the previous bridge is still intact, it's just hanging down the wall on your side of the chasm.

Hmm Disable Device you say?

Uruelleth with Kilarra

: ) Yep, I think Disable Device makes the most sense in lieu of someone having Craft (bridges) or Craft (knots) or something.

Kilarra rolls her eyes at Talia and scoffs. "You always complaining you don't have the enough spells, or the right spells."

Kilarra looks at the group. "We should press on." Then she smirks and raises an eyebrow at Ruel. "Think you can ferry us across one at a time, Ruel?"

"Hmm, I guess I do mention that rather often don't I?" Talia nods in agreement before offering a smile. "I think its because I just want to let everyone know that I'm fresh out of amazing things to do in the day so everyone's expectations of me can still remain high"

"Anyway, Uruelleth do you fancy yourself being able to restore the bridge with that flight potion? Its possibly a better idea than carrying everyone over individually, as it lets us retreat if...you know, someone stubs their toe or something"

Yeah, Talia's in a smart ass / b@#%*y mood atm, feel free to let her have it as I'm doing it somewhat intentionally.

Vorya raises an eyebrow at Kilarra, "Are you saying you actually trust someone enough to carry you over an endless pit? Are you going soft?"

Can I take 10 on the Strength check? I don't think we're under duress. That would be a 14.

Before drinking the potion, Uruelleth bends down and starts hauling up the rope bridge. "I can fly this across, I can fly you all across. But fixing the bridge will be up to you."

Yes, Uruelleth, you can take 10.

Talivar watches Urelleth prepare to fly over and thinks to himself, 'To fly like a bird. Now that would be a useful skill!'

Hmm Fly or Dispel Magic next, decisions decisions.

Get Fly imo. Its always going to be useful.

Vorya raises an eyebrow at Kilarra, "Are you saying you actually trust someone enough to carry you over an endless pit? Are you going soft?"

Kilarra lets out a chuckle. "Oh, you know how I love to gamble."

She nods at Ruel. "Fly me over and I'll try to fix the bridge."

Taking 10 on a strength check for 13.
Disable Device: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (8) + 18 = 26

With Kilarra and Uruelleth gripping each other tightly, the pair are easily able to get over the gap with the bridge in tow.

It takes Kilarra a few minutes, but she's eventually able to restore the bridge to functionality. The way forward is open once more.

Now then, which way do you want to go?

It was a strange sensation, but Uruelleth could use magic himself. So he didn't fear the magic of the potion once he gulped it down. It was just a matter of thinking about where he wanted to go, and he would go.

He carries Kilarra across the chasm, then returns to stretch the bridge back across. Then he holds it while Kilarra repairs it.

"Time to go make them pay?" he asks, drawing his falchion once more.

Kilarra smirks. "Past time."

"Ohh yes!" agreed Talivar, "Still remember we need to take Jekkajak alive..."

When they where ready, Talivar kept his eyes peeled and listened carefully for any signs of danger.
Perception with heightened awareness: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 12 + 2 = 20

I’m assuming based on your descriptions that you go down the same path that the kobolds took. Also, Uruelleth, your Shield would have worn off by now, just so you’re aware.

Once everyone’s on the other side of the chasm, you head in the direction the kobolds went. The path widens a bit, but you still have to travel single file down the winding tunnel. This tunnel isn't damp like the previous one you had to go through.

Eventually you reach another open chamber. This one isn’t quite as tall, but also doesn’t feature a chasm. Kobold tracks criss-cross the floor and appear to lead out of the room in multiple directions.

Talivar doesn't notice anything in particular in the new room besides the tracks on the ground.

Tracking bonus would apply to this check:

Map updated. Where to?

Survival: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

Uruelleth doesn't make any sense of the tracks on the ground.

Survival: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24 (GAH! So close! Haha).

Kilarra kneels down to examine the tracks... She's so close to being able to figure them out... She can feel it!

But, in the end, she's forced to shake her head. "The trail's a mess."

Could I have assisted Kilarra?

Retcon asking Talia for a Guidence spell prior to that roll. There’s your +1

Kilarra would never ask. But you're welcome to cast it on her without her permission. I will assume you do.

Kilarra points off to the right tunnel. "The freshest tracks lead this way."

Sure, I can do so. Probably would need Kilarra to clarify that she is still ‘willing’ even though Talia doesn’t have her permission, least you have to roll a will save.

Just a bunch of muddied tracks as far as Talivar was concerned, so he smiled and nodded, "I'll take your word for that. Anyway they know we're coming. If they make a stand we can expect an ambush, perhaps it's best to send a scout?"

Resting his falchion on his shoulder, Uruelleth looks at Talivar with a grin. "I could scout ahead, but then there might not be enough kobolds left for the rest of you."

I would push everyone down the tunnel Kilarra spotted, but it sounds like y’all are wanting someone to scout ahead. So… whoever’s going to do that, go ahead and give me a Stealth check and a Perception check, along with any spells you cast or have casted on you.

To touch on your earlier question about aiding, Uruelleth, it would probably be best to establish some sort of protocol ahead of time if y’all want to aid on a consistent basis. Something like ‘everyone’s rolls aid whoever has the highest modifier’ or something like that. Otherwise, I would generally say you need to specify your roll is intended to aid at the time you roll it.

Stealth: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (2) + 12 = 14

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14

Vorya nods, "I'll go ahead. If I start screaming, come save me."

Kilarra, who was about to lead the way down the passage with Ruel, as per usual, pauses as Talivar gets Vorya to scout ahead. She raises an eyebrow and leans against the nearby cavern wall while she waits for Vorya to return.

Hey Talivar didn't indicate anyone in particular should scout ;)

Talivar gives Kilarra an inscrutable look before muttering, "Awww heck maybe we should follow him?"

Vorya follows the path the kobolds took as indicated by Kilarra. He’s not particularly quiet about it and that soon becomes evident as he walks up on a pair of kobolds and a disgusting beast that looks like a slime-covered toad, but with two walrus-like tusks jutting from its upper jaw. Vorya doesn’t recognize the two kobolds as the ones you saw before.

All three denizens of the room notice the inquisitor as soon as he appears and move to attack.

Talivar can act for round 1! Map updated. It's accurate as shown. I'm assuming Vorya was able to give a shout as soon as combat started.

Talivar cocked one ear towards the tunnel Vorya had dissipated down and remarked, "Is that screaming I hear? Yes defiantly screaming."

He fumbled with his pack and removed a wand and muttered, "I guess we'd better save him. Look lively, on the double!"

He's casting Haste from the wand on everyone except Vorya.

We should probably ret-con some healing ;)

Yep, we can definitely retcon some healing. Just roll for it and mark off the charges as needed. I will note that I’m pretty sure Vorya’s health isn’t as low as his stats line currently reflects.

Talivar cocked one ear towards the tunnel Vorya had dissipated down and remarked, "Is that screaming I hear? Yes definitely screaming."
He fumbled with his pack and removed a wand and muttered, "I guess we'd better save him. Look lively, on the double!"

Yellow Kobold waves its hands and sends a ray of fire in Vorya’s direction. It sears the man's flesh. Yellow Ranged Touch Attack: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25Yellow Ranged Touch Attack, Confirm Crit?: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (2, 2, 4, 2) = 10

Green Kobold draws its bow and fires an arrow at the inquisitor. The kobold seems to have a knack for hitting humans as it manages to strike Vorya despite its bow wobbling. Green Attack: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (2) + 18 = 20Damage: 1d6 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6

Fanged Creature steps up to Vorya and tries to bite him. It sinks its fangs deep into the man's shoulder before pulling them out. Fanged Bite: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (11) + 10 = 21Damage: 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (2, 2) + 5 = 9

Everyone can act! Bottom of round 1 and top of round 2.

Kilarra rolls her eyes then races off down the tunnel. When she gets into the cavern she tumbles around the frog-beast that just skewered Vorya.

Acrobatics to avoid AoO (going around): 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (3) + 14 = 17

"You're demoted," she tells Vorya.

Hasted double move.

Ack! Auto-correct strikes again, that should have been 'disappeared' not 'dissipated'!
Empowered by the tremendous jolt of energy delivered by his wand, Talivar veritably flies round the twists and turns of the underground complex. Stuck behind Uruelleth he could see Vorya and behind him a small patch of cave and was that a Kobold in the distance?

Talivar's line of sight is very narrow, but he can see the square to the right of green for sure - and maybe green.
Talivar couldn't be sure and he had no idea how big the cave was, but he'd heard spell casting and the twang-THWACK of an arrow so it seemed best to try and shut ranged attacks down. Concentrating he thought of the thick fogs he'd often encountered out at sea and with an arcane phrase a proper peasouper rose up from the ground!
He's casting Obscuring Mist which gives Vorya total concealment from ranged attack. It does mean there's a 20% miss chance for melee - sorry. Overall I think this favors us though since the ranged can't gang up so easily on Vorya. If it turns out to be a nuisance, Talivar can dismiss it.