Mantisbane Pact with GM Zek

Game Master Zektolna

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Talia's Journal


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

Uruelleth orders a regular whiskey and takes a seat next to Bharaz. "If I see my ancestors, they won't be asking me about what I had to drink. They'll be trying to kill me. And me them." He snorts as he again imagines the endless battlefields of Gorum. Though for the first time, he pictures himself as an elf. He frowns.


K Religion: 1d20 ⇒ 14

Bharaz looked at the elf quizzically. ”That doesn’t sound like any elven afterlife I’ve heard of...nor anything Druidic. Religious then? Gorum?” He asked, unable to think of any other God of War. Given the elf’s size and fighting style it made sense.


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

Uruelleth rolls up his sleeve and shows the symbol of Gorum tattooed on his flesh. "Right. My mother followed the Green Faith. My tastes in gods is more like my father's."


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

Talia appraises Makkatat for a moment before grinning slightly ”You have my condolences Makkatat...you are probably going to live. Betty sends her regards by the way” she replies, before unfurling the scroll, reviewing the magical words and beginning the spell without time to waste.


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

First season of Farscape had a great little exchange that this reminds me of: "So, am I to live or die?" "Die. But not today."


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

Makkatat shakes his head even as Talia begins casting the spell from the scroll. “And here I thought that woman was sure to outlive me. Might just live longer if she keeps doing me favors like this.”

About twenty seconds after Talia begins, Makkatat’s color noticeably improves. Or at least you think it does. It’s hard to tell for a kobold.

The Thunderscale gets to his feet and stands upright as if nothing had ever happened. Besides his internal injuries you also notice that his limp is gone. Makkatat stamps his formerly lame leg on the ground.

“Well, now. An unexpected side benefit of this whole ordeal. I guess I’ll have to be Makkatat the Once Trampled now. Or maybe Makkatat the Untrampled. Hmm. I’ll have to think about it.”

Finished talking to himself, at least for the moment, Makkatat looks to you and says, “Anyway, I’ve done my best to see that preparations for the battle continued while I was laid up in bed. Only so much I could do to make sure they were doing their jobs, of course, but it’s better than nothing. How are things on your end? Anything else interesting happen while you were away?”

Makkatat points at Achutla and adds, “And who is this fellow?”

-----

Shark prepares Bharaz and Uruelleth’s chosen drinks. Kiss of the Mantis and Three Salts and a Dog are exactly what Shark said they would be. When it comes time for the man to make Bilgewater Surprise, he begins pouring a little bit of everything into the mug, the last bits of near empty bottles and sour wine. Before handing it to Bharaz, Shark wrings out his bar rag, squeezing out the contents into the mug.

The man smiles mischievously as he hands Bharaz his drinks. “You asked for it. Wouldn’t be an authentic Bilgewater Surprise without that last bit.”

Bharaz, if you’re planning on drinking all three drinks, please give me two fort saves.


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

Ruel laughs at the "Bilgewater Surprise" and looks at Bharaz. "You'll be joining your ancestors a lot sooner, if you drink that."


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

Talia hides a smile at Makkatat's reflection upon his name. "I think you should stick with Trampled in your name somewhere. It would be weird for Trampled Kilarra and Uruelleth to be taking advice from an Untrampled I think - or at least a weird dynamic."

Talia gives the matter a moments thought before tossing her head, her hair rippling down her back as she dismisses the matter from her mind. "Anyway, I don't really care much about it. I'm glad the preparations are still continuing, but I presume we are still a week away yes from reaching the capital? That still gives us time to prepare and get ready."

"As for anything interesting, we met another recruit. A dwarf, definitely tough enough to take the Trial of the Trampled I think a little later on if required. We also met that lizard fellow over there as part of getting your scroll. He says that he was a Greyscale. Apparently knows you, or this tribe, or something. I brought him with me so he could try and prove that he isn't a Red Mantis in disguise or something. You know anyone that might remember him, or might be able to prove his story?"


Bharaz began with Kiss of the Mantis. He raised it as a salute, and with a smile took a sip. Appreciating the flavor, he drank...and drank...until it was empty. Putting the mug down he smiled happily. ”See?! Now that’s what I’m talking about. Don’t get that kind of flavor back home. If that’s what I get for kissing a mantis, then I’d like to see what happens when I take it home.” He finished with a grin. Without waiting to see if the comment would get him smacked, he raised the second to Uruelleth. ”And this one’s to ye. The first elf I met who looks like he could fight an orc without resorting to dancing!”

He raised Three Salts and a Dog, and like before took a sip. He then drank...and drank...until he put the empty mug down.

Fort: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (14) + 15 = 29

”Ah, whiskey, brandy, tequila, and rum. Again, dwarven brewers are too conservative for that. Always ancestors this and Torag that. They’d rather perfect an ale than experiment. Makes for the best ale in the world, but leave it to humans to make something fun.” He looked completely fine, as if though the copious amount of alcohol he had just drunk was naught but water.

And then...Bilgewater surprise. He had been putting it off for as long as possible. He pushed the empty mugs away and stared at it for a long moment. Finally he lifted it up, took a sip, and wrinkled his nose in disgust.

Fort: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (1) + 15 = 16

He looked at Uruelleth, and Kilarra, and then Shark. Finally he started to drink...and drink...and....He stopped. His face turning a sickly shade of green the dwarf put the mug down and fled the bar. The sounds of cursing, coughing, and overall unhappiness could be clearly heard from outside.


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

Shark laughs as Bharaz exits the tavern to relieve himself, out one end or the other. Shaking his head, he says, “You do know how to pick ‘em. I hope he can hold his blade better than he can his liquor.”

Drinizil speaks up, “He’s in good company, if I do say so. The drinking standards in this town are outrageously high. Not everyone can hold their liquor like a pirate captain.”

-----

Makkatat nods at Talia’s suggestion, but says, “Perhaps. I will take it under advisement.

“Yes, a week away sounds about right. I may be able to get us ready to move in five days now that I’m up and about. I should know more tomorrow once I’ve had a chance to take a closer look at current preparations.

“I wouldn’t worry too much about him taking the trial. Two of you succeeded and that’s good enough. I suppose if a new crop of foolish or brave kobolds decide to take the trial, your dwarf friend could participate.”

At Talia’s last question, Makkatat takes a closer look at Achutla, squinting as he does so.

“Greyscale…”

Makkatat puts up his hands, blocking out most of Achutla’s armor and focusing on the lizardfolk’s face. “Hmm… oh my! You’re still alive?”

Dropping his hands, Makkatat takes in all of Achutla once again. “Achutla? You look nothing like the young lizardfolk who left here… must have been over a decade ago now, yes? I’m pleasantly surprised to see that you’re still alive. I had heard rumors of ambushes on Mantis in the jungle even before your new friends arrived, but I could never substantiate any of them. I guess the red fellows were better at covering up their messes when only a single person was responsible.”

Makkatat looks at Talia and says, “He is a Greyscale. The last of his clan. We raised him from when he was a youngling. Just up and disappeared one day. Would have sworn he died many years ago, but he’s either a doppelganger or Achutla in the flesh. For all intents and purposes, he’s an adopted member of the Thunderscales.”

The kobold leader smiles at Achutla. He seems genuinely happy to see the lizardfolk again.


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

Talia appraises Achutla for a moment. "Hes probably not a doppelganger. We saved him from being devoured by a Huge Mantis which, combined with your confirmation, means that he is probably a possible ally."

Talia yawns, stretching for a moment before addressing Achutia for a moment "So how did you managed to get captured by the Red Mantis? Did you happen to get a good look at your attackers? Anything you can share?"

While Talia waits for an answer she roots around for the sealed scroll she had stolen from the Temple and unfurls it carefully, hoping to read what it says after once again checking it for traps.


HP: 78/93 // AC: 30, t 17, FF 29 // Fort +12, Ref +7, Will +12 // Perception +1 Current spells: Heroism (100 minutes), Shield of Faith (10 minutes), divine power (10 rounds)

Achutla grins widely, clearly relieved that Makkatat recognizes him. "Yess, it is me. I see that you became chieftain. I think we are both quite different than we were twelve yearss ago. But I am happy to see you too. If our war against the Mantis allows the time, I would love to catch up on the missing yearss."

To Talia he says, "I had been fighting against them for so long on my own that I lost hope. I felt like someone bailing the tide with bucket...no matter how much I did, there were alwayss more of them. So I decided to attack the Pagoda directly, to either make a real dent in them or...to die trying. I killed a few and got inside, and then there were so many of them. I had no chance. They knocked me out, and I woke up in that bag. I guesss they intended to feed me to their pet." He shrugs. "I never thought there were otherss like me out there until I met you all."


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

"I warned him," Uruelleth sighs. He looks at Shark with a smirk. Actually, he doesn't hold his blade much, either." He goes outside to check on Bharaz. Once the dwarf was done emptying his stomach, he grabs him by the collar and hauls him up to their rooms to let him sleep it off.

Ready to move on to morning and get the group back together?


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

GM I already know in advance that I'll be prepping my visions for tomorrow and what the topic is. I'm just letting you know this as a general heads up

First topic is going to be vision questing the Cult again. We last saw them heading off somewhere to discuss the hit on Kaleidoscope so I'll get a vision of that. On an unrelated note, Betty should also have let them know that we want to make contact as well as per our original deal.

Second vision is going to be spotting the circumstances (or more likely, conversation and order) behind Alayna being there at the Temple. She went from pleasure slave in the Citadel to the Pagoda very quickly and I cannot help but feel that there was a reason.


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

Kilarra lets out a cackle as Bharaz flees outside."Yup. Time to call it a night."

She laughs as she helps them upstairs.


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Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

Makkatat nods vigorously at Achutla's implied question. "Yes, I would like that very much. At least one good conversation before you disappear for another decade. Or maybe less, if I'm lucky."

-----

Kilarra and Ruel escort Bharaz up to the party's rooms at the Murdered Manticore to sleep off his drinks and await Talia's return for them the next day.

-----

Talia, I'll get to the vision of the Cult a bit later. For now, here's the vision about Alayna.

Alayna:

The vision opens in the opulent halls of the Sivlamlik. Cascading fountains and marble basins of steaming water fill the paradise. Scarred and well-muscled figures lounge in the pools or on piles of cushions while tended by exquisite beauties.

A bland-faced man still in his Mantis armor is standing over a rugged-looking one relaxing on some cushions. His shoulders are being massaged by a lovely girl. Talia recognizes her as Alayna, looking a little older than her last vision but still healthy.

"Wait. They got Mannee? Korvan? Erandlon?!?" The one in armor looked exasperated. "Why haven't you killed them yet?"

The other shrugged the shoulder that she was rubbing. "They're ghosts. They disappear for days, show up where we don't expect them. But they'll eventually strike one of the places where we've laid our traps. It's only a matter of time."

The plain man snorted. "You're on the defensive? Is this what you're reduced to? Are you afraid to strike out at them, Jagen?"

The unclothed Mantis rose from his cushions, angered. Alayna stepped back and moved to the wall, poised and ready to return the instant he desired. "You're the one who left Talivar Tamexo alive, Garrick! If you had killed him when you slew his wife and took his daughter, we wouldn't have this... frost mage to contend with!"

Garrick crossed his arms across his chest, looking neither cowed nor chagrined. "He wasn't in the contract; he wasn't even a threat. I don't do freebies." His eyes grew distant for a moment as he replayed the old contract on Maria Tamexo. "The daughter..."

His eyes fell on Alayna, standing silent and still with her eyes downcast. His brow furrowed as he stepped closer, leaning to get a better look at her face. "Hello, pet. How are you liking the Sivlamlik?"

Without raising her eyes, she bowed deferentially. "It is an honor to serve the almighty Achaekek."

He stepped in front of her. "Look at me." She dutifully raised her head and looked at him. "What is your name?"

"I have no name but what I'm given. What would you like my name to be?" she replied, completely submissive.

The mantis before her rolled his eyes. "Very good, but I want to know what your name was. Who were you before you came to the Sivlamlik?"

Her eyes grew wider. "I-- I was no one. I was nothing. I had no life from before, my only purpose is to serve--"

She was cut off by a vise-like grip seizing her throat and pushing her against the wall. Garrick's other hand grabs a sawtooth sabre from his back and holds it menacingly in front of her face. His voice becomes soft, but terrifying. "You're doing very well. You've passed your test. Now. Tell me your old name, or I kill you."

Her eyes were wide with fear. "I... I don't remember," she croaks out when he let some of the pressure off her neck.

"All right, then." The sawtooth sabre spun in the man's hand and he drove the blade deep into her gut. Her legs went limp, and she slumped to the ground when he relaxed his grip on her throat.

Jagen shouted in protest, but Garrick simply ignored him as he watched Alayna and the blood spilling out of her gut. The girl grew pale and gasped for breath. In a daze, she looked up at him, and sudden recognition filled her eyes. Her expression turned from shock and pain to sudden blazing defiance. "I am Alayna Tamexo, daughter of Talivar Tamexo. And he's going to kill you."

Garrick's bland, plain face grinned sadistically. He pulled out a wand and tapped her as he said a strange word. Alayna's color immediately got better, and her defiance shifted to abject terror. She screamed as the gaping tear in her stomach stitched itself back together even as she clawed at the wound trying to stop it from healing.

She screamed and screamed and screamed as she was dragged out of the Sivlamlik.

* * *

The vision shifts, and Garrick is with a figure clad in crimson robes and a hood pulled over its face. Alayna struggled desperately in Garrick's arms. The hooded figure gestured and chanted, and suddenly Alayna stopped struggling.

"There. She's dominated. So explain your plan?"

Garrick let go of Alayna and started wiping down his blade as he spoke. "Simple. You've got Pact problem, right? You can't find them, so you need bait. Well, this is Talivar Tamexo's daughter.

"We take her into the city. Spread some rumors. It doesn't have to be subtle. Just enough to drive the mage insane. Hell, advertise it. We're offering up a jewel of the Sivlamlik, and anyone with enough coin can enjoy her for an hour."

He gripped Alayna's chin and turned her ensorcelled face to his. "What do you think, pet? Will Daddy come to save you, to spare you from bedding all the pirates of Ilizmagorti?"

Without waiting for an answer, he turned back to the robed figure. "Well?"

The figure nods. "A sound plan. Lay your trap. You may keep her in the Pagoda. Although, we cannot risk letting her live in case the Pact does the unthinkable and survive."

Garrick thought for a moment and smiled cruelly. He draws a wickedly serrated dagger and places it in Alayna's hand. "She's dominated, right? The Mantis' Kiss has two charges left. One for Daddy, and one for herself."

The vision ends.


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

Kudos GM - nice reminder how nasty the Mantis are and definitely rattling for Talia on a number of different levels. Looks like Garrick just graduated to Chessin's level in terms of Mantis on Talia's personal hit list.

Whats the Knowledge check for Mantis Kiss?

Knowledge Talia Religion/Nature/Plane: 1d20 + 15 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 15 + 2 = 25
Knowledge Midnight Arcana/Local: 1d20 + 19 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 19 + 2 = 35


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

The Mantis are thoroughly evil. It's sometimes hard to remember that when they're in the background for a while.

It would be Arcana, Talia.

Mantis’ Kiss:

Talia knows that the Mantis’ Kiss is a dagger that always performs as a +2 dagger, but it also has the power to draw the life force from an opponent. It can hold a number of charges depending on the skill of the creator and the time put into it. Once all charges are lost, the dagger becomes a simple +2 dagger (with a faint evil aura). A critical hit must be dealt for the dagger’s death-dealing ability to function, and this ability has no effect on creatures not subject to critical hits. The victim is entitled to a DC 20 Fortitude save to avoid death. If the save is successful, the dagger’s death-dealing ability does not function, no use of the ability is expended, and normal critical damage is determined. This dagger is evil, and any good character attempting to wield it gains two negative levels. These negative levels remain as long as the dagger is in hand and disappear when the dagger is no longer wielded. These negative levels never result in actual level loss, but they cannot be overcome in any way (including by restoration spells) while the dagger is wielded.


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

Ruel wakes early, pleased to see another sunrise and that he wasn't slain in his sleep. He rouses Kilarra and (perhaps after a morning workout), goes to make sure Bharaz is functional.

"Come on, we need to move. Talia isn't going to meet us here, so we got to go to her." In the early morning light, he leads them through the streets of Ilizmagorti to the hidden kobold tunnels where hopefully Talia will be.


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

Kilarra finishes dressing, grabs her gear, then heads downstairs to snag a loaf of bread to munch on during the trip.

"Think she got to Makkata in time?"


Thanks to his ring, Bharaz was up bright and early. Magic was a wonderful thing, he reflected. ”This is gonna be a good day, I can feel it.” He said, following the others. ”Bet it is gonna have quite a lot of exercise.”


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

Here’s the second vision.

Cult Meeting:

As her vision begins, Talia sees the two men from the bar take a set of stairs just outside the tavern. The pair descend to a basement below the bar where several other individuals are already present.

The basement itself is rather plain, just a few tables and several chairs. A keg on a table to one side is accompanied by several mugs. There’s certainly nothing that would give it away as a cult’s hideout. It seems to be more of a meeting place than a full blown base.

One of the figures already present, an older human woman, nods as the pair enter. “Good. We can start now. We have more than usual to talk about this evening.”

The meeting begins and at first the conversation is seemingly just small talk, what each person has been up to during the past couple weeks, what their plans are in the weeks to come, anything interesting they’ve noticed in the city. None of them address each other by their names, just you or she or he.

Once all of that is out of the way, the older human woman from before says, “Betty contacted me recently, during one of our… well, you know. Anyway, it seems that group that’s been causing the Mantis trouble wants to meet.”

The conversation is freeform, as multiple people chime in back to back. None of them seem particularly interesting. You could have easily passed some or all of them during your travels in Ilizmagorti.

“We’ve had enough Mantis trouble as it is. We don’t need more.”

“I hear they haven’t been caught yet. Might could learn a thing or two from them.”

“What’s the point? We have our mission and the means to carry it out. Maybe we’re not the most effective at it, but we get it done. Besides, they’re sure to want something if we agree to meet. People are predictable.”

“Predictable, yes. Predictably dangerous. What are the odds they actually agree with our goals? Sure, they hate the Mantis, but if they know anything about us, they probably hate us too.”

“That brings us to the second major topic for the evening,” the older human woman says. “The hit on Kaleidoscope. We’ve discussed it for several months now. Regardless of how this other group views us as a whole, I suspect they’ll be interested in helping. Might not even want anything in return, if they’re actually backed by a bunch of crusading monarchs as has been rumored.

“We need to make a decision. Are we going to try the hit?”

Others chime in one after the other again.

“Try the hit? How are we actually supposed to know we hit Kaleidoscope anyway? We aren’t even sure who he is.”

“We aren’t even sure he is a he.”

“We aren’t even sure what Kaleidoscope is. How do we expect to kill someone like that?”

“That’s where the other group might be able to help. We have the manpower for the hit, but they may have the resources,” the older woman says. “We need to decide if we’re committed. This will either be our greatest success or the death of our mission. You know the Mantis will not rest till we’re dead if Kaleidoscope survives the attempt. The Mantis will know and they’ll go door-to-door in the city till we’re all dead or carted off to the Citadel. We need a consensus.”

The two men from Talia’s earlier vision look at each other for a moment and seem to share an understanding. Simultaneously they say, “We’re in.”

Slowly, the other people in the room acknowledge their support before finally the older woman nods, “Very well. I’ll try to make contact with this other group through Betty. In the meantime, I expect all of you to be vigilant in seeking out more information about our target. I realize Kaleidoscope is elusive, but we need to know more about him… her… it… if we’re to succeed.”

The rest of those at the meeting nod their acknowledgement and the gathering devolves back into small talk. Talia’s vision ends as people start to leave.


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

Talia turns pale under the strain of her second vision. She feels sick scrying Sivlamlik over and over again. Its not merely just seeing what was done to Alayna, it was the easy knowledge of the future that awaited her if they failed in their quest.

Talia didn't really give a damn if she died in the attempt to defeat the Red Mantis.She was fearless in the face of the constant threats by the Red Mantis that they would slaughter them for daring to challenge them. If she died she would get to go to whatever afterlife she deserved and be happy with it. What caused her sleepless nights though was being taken alive where she would be reminded of her failure constantly as well as losing all her freedoms in the process. It was lucky that the Red Mantis had not made such threats recently but Talia resolved to avoid visions of Sivlamlik in the near future - it was not doing her mental state any good.

Observing the vision, Talia feels bile in her throat as Alayna is stabbed and then threatened to be loaned out to any pirates who had the coin. She now feels even worse. She had predicted that the Mantis would keep Alayna alive and unharmed because she was valuable leverage against Talivar that they could use if the Mantis felt in particularly dire straits. She hadn't predicted that they would throw away any leverage so casually. She throws up for a second, before feeling horror rise as Garrick mentions the Mantis Kiss. She dashes out of the room and where Talivar and Alayna would be, attempting to warn Talivar of the enchantment.

I think I know what happened but holding off on reactions.


Buffs: mage armor, shield Human Sorcerer 10| HP 43/52 | AC 22 T14 FF18 | Resist 5 Electricity and Sonic| CMD 17 | F+7 R+9 W+12* | Init +3 | Perc +12 | Spell slots 1st: 6/8 2nd: 7/8 3rd: 7/7 4th: 4/6 5th: 3/4

It was the escape she'd long dreamed of, right there in her trembling hands. She stared at the serrated dagger covered with blood. Her father's blood.

She grasped the hilt and pointed the blade at her heart, just as the orders in her head instructed. The tip moved closer, almost of its own will, as if the blade itself sensed her rapidly beating heart and guided her hands. Its vile purpose would be complete once it was driven into her chest.

Her vision blurred as tears poured from her eyes and down her cheeks. She could finally escape this nightmare that started with her mother's death, continued with the long and terrifying journey to the Mantis' island, her training, her service, and finally succumbing to the order to plunge the dagger into her father's heart, all for the greater glory of Achaekek. Just a quick thrust and it would be over.

Why was she hesitating?

The power of the order in her mind stopped the moment the blade touched her skin. The rest was up to her. Her choice. Her escape.

Their victory.

Alayna is kneeling over the corpse of her father. The vile dagger is in her blood-slick hands poised over her heart. She hears the order over and over reminding her she is trained to obey. The tip scrapes along the skin above her breastbone. Her breath is ragged and quick, while the distant sound of thunder echoes in her ears.


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

Talia stormed into the room, eyes flashing as she takes in the scene. Her heart catches in her chest at the sight of Talivar lying on the ground and Talia sees red. For a brief instant, Talia feels extreme rage flow through her - she could almost see the Blood Mistress laughing at her. Talia hadn't seen the tactic coming, and worse still, it hadn't been a Mantis of significance that had come up with the plan, just a no name with a mind for cruelty. Talia is grateful that she she doesn't prepare elemental magic like Talivar did, because in that instant she wanted to hurt. She wanted to tear down the entire city and burn it all to the ground.

She blinks and the moment passes and Talia's sharp mind, no longer being ruled by emotion, takes over and reasserts itself. She moves into range, casting Magic Circle Against Evil, centering the spell around Alayna.

"Drop the blade Alayna, drop it now" Talia orders in an iron clad tone. She knew from her visions that Alayna had been groomed to obey at all costs, and she relies on that training now, projecting that note of command into her voice, hoping that Alayna's submissive nature takes over.

Talia watches the girl closely for any signs of hesitation. "Talivar didnt just fight for escape Alayna, he fought for you to have a life once again. Don't throw his sacrifice away. Don't let the Mantis win."

Its tricky following the wording of the spell, but I think Alayna gets a will save to suppress the Domination effect entirely (with a +2 save). Even if she fails the Domination remains in effect but no orders can be given (in essence, the telepathic link isn't functioning within the circle). Unfortunately, Dominate Person is day/level which means that short of Break Enchantment / Dispel Magic (which I don't have) Alayna is going to be out of action until tomorrow unless she breaks the Domination spell herself.


Buffs: mage armor, shield Human Sorcerer 10| HP 43/52 | AC 22 T14 FF18 | Resist 5 Electricity and Sonic| CMD 17 | F+7 R+9 W+12* | Init +3 | Perc +12 | Spell slots 1st: 6/8 2nd: 7/8 3rd: 7/7 4th: 4/6 5th: 3/4

She barely acknowledged the new presence in the room. The commands in her mind had her focused on the blade, but in seconds they vanished. That inexorable pull that kept the dagger poised over her heart dissipated.

Will: 1d20 + 9 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 9 + 2 = 22

"Drop the blade Alayna, drop it now"

Her head whips over to the woman standing in the chamber's entrance. The spell broken, she gasps and flings the dagger away. Her mind whirls and she stands up, taking in her surroundings for the first time.

Then she looks at her hands, seeing the blood on them. Her eyes are then drawn to her father. "No," she collapses back down and puts her hands over the red-black spot on his chest. "No, no, I'm sorry! No!"

A fleeting urge to grab the dagger up and follow him strikes her, but the woman's words echo in her head.

Don't let the Mantis win.

She chokes back a sob. She was right. She needed to do something. She needed to hurt them; repay in kind for everything they've inflicted upon her.

Thunder sounds again in her mind. The tattoos running up and down her arms and legs, and along her back, start glowing blue. The smell of ozone rises in the small chamber. Sparks begin arcing along her limbs and her hair rises in static. Electricity dances along her fingers and races up and down her tattoos.

She looks up and unleashes a scream. Outside, above the Kobold warrens, the sky darkens briefly and lightning arcs among the clouds while peals of thunder shake the treetops.

When her scream finishes, the electricity subsides, though little sparks still dance up and down her arms and between her fingers. She looks at the woman, dazed.

"What's-- what's happening?"


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

Talia walks over and picks up the blade, putting it into clothing in case Alayna should get any further ideas. She isn't exactly thrilled with the development - the last thing she wanted was an unpredictable, unstable mage hurling lightning bolts in the middle of a kobold camp.

She briefly considers going over and giving the girl a hug but decides against it at all the sparks running around. Instead she speaks formally, in a soft, calm, but knowledgeable tone.

"Your bloodline powers seem to be manifesting. Talivar told me once that his powers manifested in a similar way, although his focus was ice magic and yours seem to be electric focused. Perhaps the nearby Eye of Abendego played a role in influencing your focus somewhat. There is nothing to fear though."

Talia pauses for a moment before continuing in a gentle tone "Alayna you need to rest, you have broken through a Domination spell, lost a parent, and unlocked latent bloodline powers all within the space of a few minutes. Even Talivar needed to rest after unlocking his powers. Now follow me"

Bluff: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (18) + 15 = 33

Talia didn't seem the harm in the small white lie. Technically, Talivar probably had rested after unlocking his abilities, but Talia didn't know that for sure. At any rate, Alayna sure as hell wasn't going to get to sleep in the same room as her dead father, so the shaman leads the girl to her own quarters before pointing at the bed "Sleep." she remarks in a firm tone. "I can help with getting you started but you need to rest now. I'll check on you again shortly but whats important is that you spend a few hours alone, resting but safe. Will you do that for me?" she asks.


Buffs: mage armor, shield Human Sorcerer 10| HP 43/52 | AC 22 T14 FF18 | Resist 5 Electricity and Sonic| CMD 17 | F+7 R+9 W+12* | Init +3 | Perc +12 | Spell slots 1st: 6/8 2nd: 7/8 3rd: 7/7 4th: 4/6 5th: 3/4

The woman's calm and insistent voice settles Alayna. The electricity stops arcing up and down her arms and focuses on the what the woman is saying. She mentions Talivar and though a part of her wants to flinch and recoil, her eyes go wide and she listens intently. She'd heard that her father was some sort of sorcerer -- a ludicrous thought, initially, but more and more of what she heard confirmed it.

She follows the woman. Other things she had heard in the Sivlamlik tug at her thoughts. Her father was one of the Pact. So, this woman was probably one as well.

"Talia. Talia Dionne, right? Spellcaster. The one who sees things. The talker. The one who was supposed to be--" she stops and looks away.

Once in Talia's room, she looks at the bed but makes no move toward it. Her eyes flash and glow an electric blue briefly at the command to sleep. Her will had been dormant for so long it yearned to flex itself. "I'm not--" she starts. After a pause, she nods and goes to sit on the bed, but she doesn't lie down.

"I'll rest," she says, but can't bring her to say she'll sleep. An unsettling fear that she hasn't left the Sivlamlik at all presses upon her. Though, she had long ago stopped dreaming of escape by any means other than death. She didn't want to risk dreaming of capture.


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

Talia listens to the woman rattle off her various titles she had picked up in the citadel, although her gut twists at the incomplete sentence. ”Yes, that was where I was destined to end up. Fortunately it seems the Mantis have given up on that attempt at the moment - something that helps me focus a little better. It’s touching they had such nice names for me though - usually I’m just called paranoid or nosey” she responds in a lighthearted tone.

If you don’t want to sleep that’s fine, but you do need to rest, and relax. A lot has happened in a short space of time, and I don’t want you putting yourself under further stress. I’ll check on you in an hour” she advises.

***

Talia heads out the door and advises any nearby anxious kobolds that she requests an audience with Makkatat shortly with the other Pact members. She then teleports, determined to bring the Pact together

Unsure if we want to chase down the Cult now but I think it’s better if the Pact regroups with the kobolds now rather than later tbh


Buffs: mage armor, shield Human Sorcerer 10| HP 43/52 | AC 22 T14 FF18 | Resist 5 Electricity and Sonic| CMD 17 | F+7 R+9 W+12* | Init +3 | Perc +12 | Spell slots 1st: 6/8 2nd: 7/8 3rd: 7/7 4th: 4/6 5th: 3/4

Alayna shakes her head. "No, the names... they weren't nice."

When Talia leaves her alone, her thoughts catch up to her. A tidal wave of grief and remorse crashes through her very being. For a moment she reaches to anger, to hatred of the Red Mantises to hold it at bay, and like a small island standing resolute against buffeting waves, she holds to herself.

With the knowledge that it was there and she wasn't going to be swept away, she allows the grief fully take hold. She falls to the floor and curls up into a ball as her body is wracked with sobs.


Maps | Info | Loot | Talia's Journal

Talia didn’t spot any trap once again when she examined the envelope, so she broke the seal and read the letter within.

Letter:

Firesinger,

We’ve prepared a gift for you and your monkey goblins. A little surprise for the thorns in your side. Be sure to keep it away from your people or it might decide to have a snack.

I trust your preparations are well underway for the defense of Ganda-Uj. You, at least, should know how important it is that the city doesn’t fall. We’re counting on you to maintain the jungles to stall the Pact from making further progress. Should you fall, we cannot promise Ganda-Uj will be rebuilt. Blood Mistress Jakalyn sends her regards.

In Achaekek’s Name,
High Priest Saviya

-----

When Talia teleports, she finds the other members of the Pact waiting for her… and also completely unaware of what just transpired in the Thunderscale warrens.


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

Talia wonders what names the Mantis are calling her as she leaves Alayna alone. She hoped it was something awe inspiring although knowing the Mantis it was more likely to be derogatory or something boring like 'heathen'. Still, it was better to be named than unnamed - it showed that the Mantis heavily considered them threats if nothing else.

Talia successfully Teleports to the rendezvous and is relieved to discover that everyone is fine. She immediately Teleports the remaining members of the Pact back to the Thunderscale warrens without saying a word.

Everyone (old and new party members) can assume they are all present for this - Talia would have gotten everyone together for this.

Then Talia pauses for breath, wondering how exactly to tell them, before eventually deciding that there was no good way.

"Guys, Talivar died last night. I was suspicious that Alayna happened to be at the Temple, but it was part of an elaborate plan to bait Talivar into the Temple. There were initially planning, I think, to advertise Alayna out as a courtesan to all the Pirate Lords of the city. They knew it would have driven Talivar crazy. They had a mage cast Dominate Person though against Alayna beforehand, they knew Talivar's guard would be down after a rescue attempt, and they commanded Alayna to stab him during the night. The dagger is warded with evil magic, it foils most of the resurrection magic I currently have access to right now. I might be able to research something stronger and bring him back, but for now Talivar is gone"

Talia tries to keep her face impassive, but truthfully it was hard to hold back tears. She alone had felt that something was off about Alayna being there, but she had missed the trademark signs of a Domination enchantment and hadn't discovered the plan until it was too late. She keeps her tone steady though and attempts to continue on.

"Alayna is fine. I was able to delay the Domination effect from allowing her to harm herself as well although in truth I think Alayna was resisting it well enough on her own anyway, all my spell did was give her a nudge in the right direction. She has broken free, although understandably is not coping particularly well under the circumstances. Shes resting in my quarters at the moment while I picked you all up. Its probably not a great idea leaving her alone at the moment, but I couldn't leave you guys in the city alone, and after being locked up for half her life I don't think she would have reacted well to restraints or a locked door."

"Alayna also seems to be a sorcerer, which complicates things. My guess is that her trigger was mostly the same as Talivar's trigger, loss and grief. As far as I can tell, Alayna's thing seems to be electricity whereas Talivar's was ice magic. I need to talk to Makkatat actually soon, because I'm sure the kobolds are anxious at the large lightning storm that appeared out of nowhere and disappeared just as quickly. Also, we should have a funeral or ceremony for Talivar, to pay respects."

Talia's spell list is almost identical to yesterdays except she has a couple of open slots still as below (since yesterdays spell list had diversion specific spells). She had 2 3rd level slots open and one 5th level.

Spell List:

Spell-Like Abilities (CL 10th; concentration +15)
1/day—daylight
Shaman Spell-Like Abilities (CL 10th; concentration +15)
Constant—endure elements
Shaman Spells Prepared (CL 10th; concentration +15)
5th—[open slot], teleport (2); contact other plane[S] or overland flight[S]
4th—emergency force sphere, enervation (2), spell immunity; legend lore[S] or rainbow pattern[S] (DC 19)
3rd—akashic communion, magic circle against evil, [open slot (2)]; daylight[S] or locate object[S]
2nd—barkskin (2), resist energy (3); hypnotic pattern[S] (DC 17) or tongues[S]
1st—barbed chains[HA] (2, DC 16), blood money, heightened awareness[ACG] (2), unbreakable heart[ISWG]; color spray[S] (DC 16) or identify[S]
0 (at will)—create water, dancing lights, detect magic, guidance
S spirit magic spell; Spirit Heavens Wandering Spirit Lore


HP: 78/93 // AC: 30, t 17, FF 29 // Fort +12, Ref +7, Will +12 // Perception +1 Current spells: Heroism (100 minutes), Shield of Faith (10 minutes), divine power (10 rounds)

Not having known Talivar, Achutla feels slightly awkward being at the announcement of his death. He is still very unsure of his place in the Pact and doesn't want to offend anyone or intrude on their grief, so he just puts on a serious sad face and stays quietly at the side, waiting to see how the others react to this terrible news.


Bharaz recognized the grief well enough. He stayed silent, though he wasn’t in the least bit surprised. They were hunting infamous assassins who were legendary for their lack of morals. If casualties weren’t incurred then he would have been surprised. Still, such knowledge didn’t take away the pain that came with loss. He kept such thoughts to himself, while inwardly hoping that the more veteran members of their group were the sort to keep their calm in the face of tragedy.


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

Kilarra cusses -- though you're not sure if its directed at the Mantis, Alayna, or Talivar himself. She crosses her arms and leans against a nearby cave wall (or tree?). "So, this girl. Do we still have to worry about a knife in the back?"

A moment later Kilarra shrugs. "Ugh, whatever. I always expect a knife in the back. More importantly, what's our next move?"


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

Uruelleth was about to swear when Kilarra did it for him. So he just folds his arms and broods in sullen silence. Talivar had been a staunch ally, and his magic in battle had been supremely useful. The glimmer of hope that the possible addition of Bharaz and Achutla to their number was severely diminished by Talivar's loss.

And the cowardly way the bugs did it! They hadn't had much luck in a straightforward battle, so they were taking underhanded tactics like having the man's daughter do their dirty work. He seethed.

He looks up when Talia mentions that the girl was also a sorcerer. That made her doubly dangerous, if she was still in the Mantis' thrall. But Talia believed her to be free. But the mind could still hold shackles that a spell won't so easily lift.

He looks at Talia and then Kilarra. Between the three of them, they knew Talivar the best, having fought with him since the Pact was formed. Sending his soul on to its final rest would be appropriate. "A funeral. Agreed. Then we should decide what to do with the girl."


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

Talia considers Kilarra's question seriously for a moment. "I don't think she is much of a threat to us. I have her dagger, which still holds one charge left, but I'm certain that the Domination spell has lifted. Truthfully, she's probably more dangerous to herself - she has taken the recent events rather hard. Her magic is also a little unpredictable so until she regains her focus there is a small amount of danger there. I don't expect betrayal but I can work with her over the next few days to ensure that she doesn't short circuit"

"As for our next move, we should update Makkatat. I can do this if no-one else wants to, but he should know - especially with the conflict we have coming up. He is doing much better after his healing, so there is that small good news, but he still needs to know about Talivar and Alayna."

"Broadly speaking, I do think we should hold a funeral, and Alayna should be present for that. Its a risk, but I don't really want Alayna bottling up any emotions. She needs to say goodbye, she needs closure and I think I know a way to help with that."

"Long term, we have a crossroads. We have more or less a week up our sleeve before we arrive at the goblin capital. The Cult of Nocticula meanwhile, is looking for us. They have decided they want our assistance in eliminating Kaleidoscope - but no word as to who or what he is. At a guess, (and even for me this is a shot in the dark type of guess) they might be referring to Dorel but as I said, its a guess."

"So, with a week to go, we can either use it to prepare for our assault on the goblin stronghold, or hit the Mantis even harder, either eliminating the slave trade and Goldshackle the Mantis rely on economically, or to make contact with the Cult of Nocticula and destabilize things even further. I'm happy leaving the choice to a group decision."


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

Uruelleth's anger didn't dissipate so easily. He wanted to strike out at the Mantises, to destroy something valuable of theirs in full-out, open combat -- a stark contrast to knives in the dark.

He kept himself from pacing as he listened to Talia list their options. "I don't know about the cult. I want to destroy something. Whatever they're after -- I don't know if it'll be satisfying."

He thinks some more, trying to keep his temper from overriding good sense. Attacking the slave operation seemed quite appropriate at this point, but would it be too obvious to the Mantis? Waiting to strike the goblins would be a better play, but the loss of Talivar would be felt. His area spells could deal with waves of goblins handily, letting Kilarra and himself take the more powerful ones.

Though, if the girl was a sorcerer now... He shakes his head. She is far more likely to be a liability. Either too brainwashed or too damaged -- or likely both.

I say we target Goldshackle. Strike quickly, before the Mantis can consider where we might strike next. Getting rid of their slave trade feels... appropriate. Something Talivar would appreciate."


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

Kilarra considers Ruel's words, then nods. "Let's do it. I can't sit here and do nothing for a week. Not when there's mantis that need killing."


HP: 78/93 // AC: 30, t 17, FF 29 // Fort +12, Ref +7, Will +12 // Perception +1 Current spells: Heroism (100 minutes), Shield of Faith (10 minutes), divine power (10 rounds)

"Yess! Let uss strike down their vile slave operation!"


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

Ruel gets a look of satisfaction on his face. Talivar's death hurt, but it won't stop them from destroying the bugs.

"Okay. Let's talk to Makkatat. Then we'll send Talivar on to the Boneyard. After that, we'll make our plans to strike at Goldshackle. How's that sound?"


”Righteous bloodshed for a good cause? Hard to argue with that.” Bharaz said, indicating his agreement.


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

"Sounds good to me" Talia remarks, pleased that they have a dedicated plan in mind.

"Actually though, why don't you guys talk with Makkatat? He hasn't met all of you yet and besides, I need to check on Alayna anyway. She should be there when we send Talivar off - you all know Talivar would want that"

So the way I see it, we probably want to be a full strength party of six when we attack Goldshackle. Unfortunately, Uruelleth, (and probably Talia) have IC reservations about Alayna coming along due to her current emotional state. So, I thought about writing up a quick (cliche I know) 'training' roleplay where we can get Alayna up to speed. Let me know Stalwart if you had a different plan or development option for Alayna in mind, or if you just wanted to hand waive something, it was just an idea.


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

"Sure. Let's go." He nods his head in the direction of the correct tunnel to reach Makkatat and starts walking, assuming that the others would follow.

He had to stoop quite a bit to navigate most of the tunnels. Whenever they pass a kobold, he greets them in Draconic and assures them that the dwarf was with him. While he guided them, he looks back to Achutla. "So, I assume the kobolds remembered you? You're still here."

When he gets to Makkatat's chambers, Ruel shows visible shock that he is no longer the crippled kobold he used to be. "Whoa. That must have been some strong magic!"

He moves on quickly to the point of the visit. "We've had a tragedy. Talivar was killed by a trap the Mantises set. But we've found new allies. Achutla, you apparently know already. This dwarf is named Bharaz, and I've seen him fight. We're not stopping the mission. We all knew what we had signed up for."


Buffs: mage armor, shield Human Sorcerer 10| HP 43/52 | AC 22 T14 FF18 | Resist 5 Electricity and Sonic| CMD 17 | F+7 R+9 W+12* | Init +3 | Perc +12 | Spell slots 1st: 6/8 2nd: 7/8 3rd: 7/7 4th: 4/6 5th: 3/4

Talia, that sounds great. I had been thinking of doing a training montage or at least a few scenes of Alayna experimenting with cutting loose with her powers.

At first Talia's chamber appears empty, but she quickly finds Alayna on the floor behind the bed. She looks up at her, eyes red and puffy from crying.

"What's going to happen to the Pact? I messed everything up, didn't I?" She closes her eyes and leans her head back against the bed.


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

No worries! I guess this happens soon after but anyone is welcome to join / watch etc

Talia heads back to her quarters and secretly casts Resist Energy (Electricity) before entering. She checks on the young sorceress to see how she is doing, but isn't particularly thrilled to see the young women hiding on the floor behind the bed sobbing. Talia didnt blame her for it, some part of Talia wanted to do that too.

"I think that's enough sobbing for one day. Stand up, follow me. I'm going to teach you about magic." Talia orders in a harsh tone, completely ignoring Alayna's question. Part of her hated being so mean, especially with Alayna being so vulnerable, but Alayna either needed to be in a position to defend herself on her own, or, if she went where the Pact went, then she needed to be stable enough for the rest of the Pact to rely on in combat. There unfortunately wasn't really going to be much of a middle ground, and Alayna needed to learn sooner or later - she was only a week away from a major conflict at any rate.

Talia all but drags Alayna to a straightforward open clearing, where collateral damage wasn't close by. Talia folds her arms and fixes Alayna with an intimidating look that she had learnt from Kilarra.

"We don't have a lot of time, but I'm going to teach you to defend yourself. Using magic of course, because quite frankly, you don't seem very suited to weapons. Unfortunately for you, I suspect the Mantis are going to be keen to kill you, or, if you are very unlucky, recapture you again. You saw their inner sanctum. You saw their faces, you know your way around. Sooner or later they are going to come calling again and this time Talivar won't be there"

Talia works hard to keep her tone harsh, and unsympathetic. The Mantis were definitely not going to play around with the kid gloves the next time they ran into them so it was important not to coddle Alayna.

"Maybe your father would be patient with you and ask you to aim at a rock or a tree or something, but I don't think anyone is going to stand still and let you hit them. So, I want you to hit me, because if you don't, then I'll hit you, and I won't be gentle with it. Lets see what you can do"

Its fine if Alayna hesitates or something. Talia has some weak 1st level spells to knock Alayna around a little without really hurting Alayna- it’s not like she’s going to throw enervation around. Talia is also warded vs electricity and has Emergency Force Sphere ready for one really strong attack if required (not that Alayna knows this though).


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Buffs: mage armor, shield Human Sorcerer 10| HP 43/52 | AC 22 T14 FF18 | Resist 5 Electricity and Sonic| CMD 17 | F+7 R+9 W+12* | Init +3 | Perc +12 | Spell slots 1st: 6/8 2nd: 7/8 3rd: 7/7 4th: 4/6 5th: 3/4

Alayna follows Talia out of the warrens and into the jungle, trying not to flinch under the woman's harsh words. It's not that she wasn't used to verbal abuse, but just that she hadn't expected it from her father's ally. Except, she had just killed her father, so it made sense that Talia would be taking her anger out on her.

Talia's words that the Mantis would be hunting her did not surprise her. She knew. She had to figure out these strange powers quickly to survive, and hopefully hurt them back.

Still, Alayna found it difficult to outright attack Talia, as she demanded. She starts to close her eyes, but quickly stops herself. That would be stupid, squeezing her eyes shut if it had actually been a Mantis attacking her.

She locks eyes on Talia and tries to summon the storm. A few sparks dance up and down her tattoos, and she feels something, but she doesn't know how to tap into it.

She realizes she'd been holding her breath while straining, and she gasps for air. It breaks her concentration for a moment, and she's about to ask Talia to let her try again when she sees her casting a spell.

Panic strikes her and she reflexively calls forth a gale to push her back.
Casting gust of wind


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

Talia taps her foot as she watches Alayna struggle "I'm getting old over here Alayna" she yells out, before preparing to cast a spell. As she prepares, shes suddenly blasted by a powerful Gust of Wind. The wind isn't strong enough to force Talia back, and merely blows he hair backwards in the wind.

"Not actually that bad, on a first try" Talia reflects, but she hides her impressed reaction and puts on a sheer. "Thats it? An attack that untangles my hair? I'm sure thats going to bring the house down in Sivlamlik. Why don't we try something you might be more used to?"

A second after Talia's taunt, four chains burst out of the ground next to Alayna. They swing low, going for her legs.

Casting Barbed Chains

Trip: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30
Trip: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26
Trip: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30
Trip: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (11) + 12 = 23

Alayna sprawls to the ground, and each time she tries to stand, another chain swoops in, trying to bring her down. "I'm sorry, did you ask for permission to stand?" Talia says angrily each time, before slowly dumping gallon after gallon of water over Alayna as she struggles via her Create Water cantrip.

Talia felt horrible at tripping Alayna over and over, but she could see the Alayna didn't really want to hurt Talia. Granted, she didn't know Talia was prepared for the opportunity, and it showed that the girl was a heart, a good and pure individual, but it wasn't going to help her fight. Which was exactly why Talia had hurled chains at Alayna. She wanted to tap into Alayna's experiences as a Red Mantis prisoner, to push her to lash out.

"Don't you dare panic. It clouds the mind, makes you scared, makes you week, makes you vulnerable, makes you predictable. Why do you think the Mantis wear those stupid masks? You should stay clear headed at all times, but I think thats outside of our abilities right now. How about a little rage Alayna?"

Talia knew how the Red Mantis spoke and she taps into that Infernal language again now, trying to adopt the Red Mantis language but also their way of speaking to their prisoners

Infernal via Tongues

"Are you going to try something, or are you going to let me knock you down again and again? Are you going to ask me nicely to let you stand up? Or are you going to be a good little girl and submit


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Buffs: mage armor, shield Human Sorcerer 10| HP 43/52 | AC 22 T14 FF18 | Resist 5 Electricity and Sonic| CMD 17 | F+7 R+9 W+12* | Init +3 | Perc +12 | Spell slots 1st: 6/8 2nd: 7/8 3rd: 7/7 4th: 4/6 5th: 3/4

Getting tripped was humiliating, but it wasn't that severe of an attack. She pushed herself up to her feet only to be brought down again.

The water shocks her, and she sputters as she tries to stand. But she's brought down once again, and sparing a moment to pull her hair out of her face only resulted in another splash of water.

"Stop it!" she shouts as the ground begins to get muddy, and she slips again. She tries to roll away and is rewarded with more water over her. Talia's taunts become more vicious, goading her into getting mad.

She wanted to shut down. To fall silent and still, because defiance would only result in a beating or worse: being moved from the Honey Gardens into the Chambers of Discipline, forever. Her small cell had been close enough that she could hear the screams.

Another gush of water, more words from Talia. The one who sees things. The talker. Did she see Alayna in the Sivlamlik? Did she tell her father of all the things she did to stay alive? Submission. Defiance. Submission. Defiance.

"STOP!!!" she shouts at Talia.

Sonic: 5d6 ⇒ (2, 4, 6, 5, 2) = 19 Fort save DC 21 for half, failure means deafened for 2d6 ⇒ (6, 5) = 11 rounds.


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

Fort: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23

Talia winces at the sudden piercing shriek against her ears and for a moment, her mask of indifference slips.

”A sonic attack...as a spell of the forth level. That’s pretty impressive for a novice...hmm she thinks before giving Alayna a firm nod. ”Now that’s a little more like it Alayna. That definitely startled me a little...but that was all it did”

Talia lashes out again with her Barbed Chains spell, hurling more chains at Alayna before dumping more water on her. She’s not trying to be effective, just trying to humiliate or be arrogant, dismissive, like the Red Mantis always were.

Trip: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30
Trip: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (2) + 12 = 14
Trip: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26
Trip: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (4) + 12 = 16

”Lets get real though, do you really think that a Red Mantis is going to be scared by a little screaming? No doubt you got plenty of practice in the Citadel but isn’t that just your average day for a Red Mantis assasin. Let’s be honest, if you ran into Garrick right now, is a bit of screaming all you would be good for?”

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