[PFS 8-23] Graves of Crystalmaw Pass - The Red Arm of Absalom & Friends (Inactive)

Game Master GM Red

Seeing the unflinching bravery of his fellow party members yet unable to meet the construct in a single round, Rostam does the next best thing:

Thinking hard of the spell that is required, the party members see a glowing longsword made of pure force appear by the construct and begins attacking.

Rostam casts spiritual weapon

hasted,inspired,flag bearer spiritual weapon attack: 1d20 + 1 + 2 + 1 + 3 + 3 ⇒ (13) + 1 + 2 + 1 + 3 + 3 = 23
dmg: 1d8 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 + 2 + 1 = 12

Looks like Rostam and Sirettis can save their spells!

D.Arth executes a second construct with an intense blast of composite energy from his palm. Gallix punches the remnants around a few times for good measure.

-- Out of combat --

Grave Treader finishes her work - the barrier protecting the cipher fades as she makes a final few turns on the gear system, and she pulls the clockwork cipher from the altar, holding it up to her face to examine its many tiny parts. "I've got it! Thank you for dealing with those guardians. The cipher is ours to analyze at last." She holds it out for someone else to get examine. "As promised, if you wish to analyze it for Society purposes, perhaps you might do so while we travel back to my camp."

"Incredible..."

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (9) + 13 = 22

"Yes, this gear is quite useful when you wish to disable constructs. You can also use it like a key. Stick it in the back of one of these constructs and wind it for about 10 minutes or so. It will follow your orders for 8 hours before you need to wind it up again."

"Grave Treader, you may wish to control one of these automata and bring it back to the camp with us. With treachery so close, you may need all the protection you can get."

knowledge(arcane), heroism: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 12 + 2 = 27
knowledge(arcane), heroism, investigative mind: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 12 + 2 = 24

This is the first time I've used all 7 charges of investigative mind, I'm glad you invited me on this scenario.

Van inspects the cipher, nearly hopping from excitement "Oh this is vonderful! I must see it in action! I insist that ve activate one of these clockwork constructs."

Once the excitement has wound down, Van returns to the deconstructed construct in the front room also, to see if he has any new insights, perhaps on assembling and activating it.

Gallix passes his healing wand to Sirettis and gives her the old puppy dog eyes to ask for her help healing his wounds.

CLW x7: 7d8 + 7 ⇒ (7, 7, 2, 6, 1, 8, 2) + 7 = 40

Grave Treader obliges Sirettis' request, and begins to activate the cipher, tuning it to one of the deactivated constructs. After ten minutes, the cipher takes on a shape that fits snugly into a latch on the back of the automata, and she inserts it and cranks it. The sound of gears squealing to life rings out, and then the construct stands up from its three legs, eager to take an order.

"Fascinating! This will make a valuable ally for our trek back!" Graves walks over to the construct and points at it. "Follow!" She commands. The creature obediently follows behind her as she walks back to the first chamber.

"A valuable ally.....the other machines were rather flimsy in durability."

Watching as Sirettis reassembles Gallix's face, "Flimsy in durability, but powerful."

Nearly forgot...

In addition to the clockwork cipher, the altar contains a compartment containing a scroll of breath of life, a mithral light hammer, a potion, and a strange, shiny brass spider.

Spellcraft vs Hammer: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (20) + 13 = 33
"This hammer is magical in nature, providing a simple...err...plus one... enchantment." Sirettis mutters as she almost trips against the fourth wall.

Spellcraft vs potion: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (10) + 13 = 23
"This potion will cure serious wounds. Perhaps you want to drink this instead, Mister Gallix?"

Spellcraft vs spider: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (20) + 13 = 33
"An intriguing brass spider. This chain extends about 15 feet from its back. You can use it to safely disable traps and locks, as it is as dextrous as your hand. Mister Gallix, you may also be interested in this."
You can read the spoilers in GM Red's post.

I wish my martials rolled this well.

spellcraft; hammer, heroism: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 6 + 2 = 9
spellcraft; potion, heroism: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 6 + 2 = 18
spellcraft; spider, heroism: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 6 + 2 = 17

"Ves, ves, all very interesting but lets focus on the construct! Can you make it jump, I must see if the limbs are hydraulic, pneumatic, or archomatic! It must use capacitors, vere are they stored? Oh by the lady! It has kinetic capacitors!"

" My kinetic capacity lead to its demise, it's worthless I tell you."

With your new clockwork ally in tow, you make for the Sundered Stones Camp again. The trip is largely uneventful, and Grave Treader moves ahead into the camp with the construct to create a diversion. "Bandits, rally to me! This construct will reactivate in seconds, so we are going to use it for a training exercise. Follow me the cave!" Her team rushes out of their tents and towards the cave.

The camp now emptied, Grave Treader leads you towards the bluff where Voidstone awaits. She steps in front of the stairs to block the way. "I have one request. I ask that you let Pamari live. I know that you will almost certainly be crossing swords, but please do what you can to spare her life. She’s been a good friend to me during my time here, and she’s not nearly as bloodthirsty as Jathune. I’m sure her expertise would come in handy to the Society for any future expeditions into the Plane of Fire. I wish you luck. I’ll make sure no one disturbs your meeting."

"I will do what I can to spare Pamari." Sirettis gives her word. "Let us speak to Jathune."

She renews her Mage Armor and focuses. Her skin ripples as she takes the form of one of the campers. "Gallix- did you want to try to draw Jathune from cover using the hat of disguise? If not, this is also acceptable- this disguise may buy me some free time to restrain Pamari."

I'm gonna use my Disguise Hex here. I never get to use it!

Gallix busies himself lighting a cigarette as Grave Treader leads them to the stairs. Sticking the cigarette between his lips, he smiles at the woman, "Don't worry, Graves, I can hit hard, but I know how to land a hit without killing someone too." As he speaks, red smoke begins to trail up from the end of his cigarette, and suddenly Gallix's arms and chest seem to double in bulk. The veins running along his neck bulge out, and his eyes temporarily lose focus as the smoke takes its effect. He turns his head one way, then the other, popping his vertebrae loudly as he tries to loosen his muscles for a fight. Starting my strength mutagen: +4 Str/-2 Int, +2 Natural Armor, +2 melee damage, +10ft base speed

Turning to Sirettis, he looks confused for a moment, then recalls the earlier plan. "Oh yeah! Let's give it a shot!" He pulls the cap from his belt and quickly sets it on his head. A moment passes as nothing seems to happen, but he soon begins to change gradually, his height, build, and features transforming to match those of Grave Treader. "How's that?"

Is Gallix wearing a belt of genderswap?

"It will do, for now." Sirettis nods. "Perhaps you can call Jathune over for a quick question."

Reassuring Grave Treader, Van elaborates on what the others have already said. "Ve vill do all in our power to preserve Pamari, the Society is invested in stability vithin the region."

"This is a fascinating ruse, I shall greatly enjoy v'iting of it!" Van casts heroism on Gallix.

Does it look like we will be able to find Voidstone in only a few minutes?

If so; Van will cast Alter Self on himself to turn into a hulking Bugbear. This is a 7 minute duration, so I won't cast this if Van thinks it will take more than a couple minutes to find Voidstone. (or if we get ambushed).

Indeed, it does. You have the opportunity to just waltz up the staircase. There's a lower landing 50 feet above ground level, then an upper level 20 feet above that. Let me know how you intend to proceed so I can set the scene.

Sorry I haven't been able to post for a while

Do not worry Grave Treader all reasonable care will be taken in order to ensure the capture of Pamari

Rostam will assume a position third from the front.

Sirettis reups her Mage Armor and prepares her hair and flight abilities.
"I believe the best approach is for us to arrive on the lower level. If you can fly or prefer range, I suggest you stay on the upper landing."

Van will also use his wand or heightened awareness before the group advances. And will discharge it for a +4 bonus to initiative if a fight starts.

"It feels bold and reckless to just valtz up these stairs, but that is the obvious path forward." Van makes an attempt to assist Sirettis and Gallix's disguise by retrieving a canvas bag and pulling it over his spear-head obscuring the Glyph of the Open Road, and shifting into a hulking bugbear.

"Alright then," says the disguised Gorgeous Grave Treader Granbonne, "Let's get up there and see what we can do about this ugly S-O-B!"

Gallix and Sirettis, roll disguise checks please.

You head upstairs towards the bluff. Approaching the camp, a stocky, armor-clad man stands on a cliff overlooking the campfire. The firelight dances in the glittering crystals that stud his armor. He bellows, "What have we here? Grave Treader and ... a bugbear? Hah! What is this? Have you begun to expand your retinue through the taming of furred monstrosities? No matter. Why don’t you come and join us, have a seat, I’d love to hear what brings such strange visitors to our camp. Let it not be said that the Sundered Stone is discourteous to its guests!"

He indicates the stone seats around the campfire. To the left of the glimmering oread stands a woman with fiery horns, short black hair, and tattooed, dark red skin. She adds, "Grave Treader? Who are your guests? And that bugbear?" She points at the bandits below, "You two, don’t just sit there, hand out some drinks for our guests!" The oread cuts in, "I am Jathune Voidstone, the leader of this merry band of misfits. This is Pamari, my second-in-command.”

Pamari. Jathune. I see. He has been... more courteous than I expected. Analyze his movements carefully.

"I am Nomaym, one of Grave Treader's long-range workers. My allies and I have arrived from the Opaline Vault to bring interesting news. We have heard the Pathfinder Society is in search of the clockwork cipher and are on their way to speak to Grave Treader, whom they believe to be the only leader of this ground.. We do not know their size and number, and wondered what our response to them should be."

"Shall we work with them to come to a fair agreement that benefits the both of us? Or should we put them to the sword for stepping foot in our territory? We must present a unified response, and came here to ask your input on it."
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (3) + 9 = 12
Bluff: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29

Sirettis gauges this man's reaction. If he expresses any hostility towards her or Grave Treader she will choke the life out of him herself.
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10

"I am an ambassador of my people." Van nods to the others, leaving the stage open.

"Nomaym?" Jathune raises an eyebrow inquisitively, then walks down the steps of the upper bluff. Slowly, brandishing his flaming sword as he does so. He then begins laughing hysterically. "Cut the act. You're not Nomaym, nor are you a worker. I don't know who you are, but I can see right through that illusion, wind woman!"

"Grave Treader, are you so bold as to attempt to fool me? Give me one good reason why I should not cut this miscreant down right now. And you, bugbear," he eyes Vanbear up and down, "Be quiet."

Close, but not close enough. Regardless, Gorgeous Grave Treader Granbonne still gets to pretend unless he fails his roll.

Man those rolls were lousy. Worth a shot if we could have gone straight to CDG though.

<You should have just crushed his mind, right off the bat.>

Sirettis shakes her head and determines whether she should charm Pamari first or put Jathurne to sleep.

Disguise, Disguise Self: 1d20 + 2 + 10 ⇒ (20) + 2 + 10 = 32

"Now now, Jathune, no need to be rude! My friend here is just a bit shy. She likes to put on different faces to meet new people. And what she says is true. The Pathfinders are coming. They'll be here very soon."

Bluff: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (11) + 15 = 26
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25

"Oh, and Jathune. If you're planning to backstab someone, try not to make it so obvious. You're practically drooling to use that sword of yours. I can see that from here."

sense motive: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (14) + 14 = 28

Van remembers his role as support and swallows any biting responses, instead he looks around and smells the air. Voidstone is after something, I just don't know v'at.

Sense motive: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9

D. isn't sensing ulterior motives from the other, but is readying himself in case anything goes bad.

Rostam waits quietly during the exchange, eyes ever alert during the exchange of words. He looks at the bandits and studies them for any sort of duplicity.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (3) + 13 = 16

Voidstone looks "Grave Treader" up and down. "Hmm. Of course those incessant Society idiots would attempt to locate the temple," he sighs, lowering his guard. "That doesn't explain why any of the rest of you are here. Especially you, bugbear." He cocks his head at Vanbear.

Pamari similarly makes her way down the steps of the upper bluff. "Graves, you seem... Different today. Uptight, even. Has the search for the cipher caused you so much anger?"

The two bandits in the camp pour beer from a large container into smaller mugs and dole them out to the rest of you - except Vanbear, who they watch closely with narrowed eyes.

"Courtesy, yet no beer for me. Misfits, and you judge me for being a misfit. Your words and actions do not align Voidstone." Van begins. He is no actor, so does not try to act like a bugbear. Instead he continues; precise and meticulous. Gambling that they would be too fascinated by the orating bugbear to interrupt him.

"I am an ambassador and my people vant stability vithin this region. Your recent raids have been bloodthirsty. I saw the slaughtered merchants on my journey here. I saw their wounds, the Sundered Stone massacred them."

"That vas short sighted. Crude. Careless. It it has made you an outlaw, v'en my people would have the Sundered Stone as a mercenary company."

Van is speaking to Voidstone, but trying to influence Panimi.
diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (18) + 14 = 32

Voidstone steps up close to Van; close enough that Van can feel the heat of his flaming sword wicking off the blade. "To simply stumble into the Sundered Stones camp and insult its leader? How very bold. Why should I not simply kill YOU right here and now, just as I killed those merchants?" He peeks around Van's shoulder at "Grave Treader." "You're walking a thin line bringing this beast here. You may end up as collateral damage, and soon," he yells.

Pamari steps ahead, placing her hand on Voidstone's shoulder. "Jathune, calm yourself. Graves brought these people here for a reason, did she not? Though I do not know of any sizable bugbear tribes in the Plane of Earth..." She folds her arms across her chest in suspicion. "Regardless, let us spare the bloodshed and talk this out."

Van mind is racing, mostly with anxiety. Vhy am I in the front, how do I always end up in the front?

knowledge(planes), take ten: 11 + 11 = 22 Interested in Voidstones combat training, has he put the thousands of hours of training in with that sword to react faster than thought?

This is crazy, but if we are faster than him it will be one for the chronicles.

Rostam steps forward. Yes talk. Violence would be to nobody's benefit. We are not uncivilized denizens of the Abyss. We are here to talk are we not Grave Treader?

Van can tell that Voidstone is quite skilled with his sword, and likely hits hard, but the way he slowly moved down the stairs and obvious way he handles his weapon with a lack of agility leaves something to be desired.

"Yes, Graves brought us here for a reason. To put you, Pamari in command."

Vhy do I always end up in this position? I hate the Society on days like this.

Van turns and attempts break Voidstones nose with his forehead.
to hit, unarmed: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9 Untrained, provokes.
to hit, unarmed: 1d20 + 8 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 8 + 3 = 21 GM star / folio reroll
damage, unarmed: 1d3 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4

"Voidstone is no longer fit to lead!"

Let's dance, Kadris!

Swift action: Spring loaded wrist sheath, wand of shield
Standard: cast shield
Move: Move up to Pamari

"Grave Treader" takes another step into the camp as the ruffians pass around mugs of beer, standing beside Vanbear as Jathune steps forward to size him up. She watches as Pamari descends the steps, "What can I say, Pamari? I've got something of a history with the Society. Can you blame me for being a bit on edge?"

She looks at Jathune as he steps toward Vanbear. She is about to try some more deception, but things suddenly take a turn as Van headbutts Jathune. Well that didn't last too long. Oh well!

"Sorry to say it, hothead, but the fuzzball's right. It's time for a change of leadership. How's about you take a nap now?" "Grave Treader" hauls back a fist and slams it into Voidstone's jaw.

Assuming I'm up with Van and Jathune is right up next to us, I'm gonna attack and use my Knockout ability. On a hit, Jathune will need to make a DC 19 Fortitude save or fall unconscious for 1d6 rounds. Each round on its turn, the unconscious target may attempt a new saving throw to end the effect as a full-round action that does not provoke attacks of opportunity. Creatures immune to critical hits or nonlethal damage are immune to this ability.

Knockout Adamantine Cestus, Mutagen, Heroism: 1d20 + 13 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 13 + 2 + 2 = 30 Damage, Mutagen: 1d6 + 5 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 5 + 2 + 2 = 13

Sirettis prepares to call upon its powers to crush the puny man's mind...

Only to watch Van Vishe headbutt him.

"Pamari, Grave Treader is upset by Jathrune's senseless violence. She did not call us Pathfinders here, but we are pleased to eliminate a bloodthirsty madman. We wish to do no violence to you and I would prefer to not harm you. Please do not attack us."

Too late for diplomacy. If Jathrune doesn't fall unconscious, Sirettis will use her Slumber Hex. Slumber Hex: Will Save DC 18 or fall asleep for 7 rounds.

Voidstone winces in pain, stumbling back as Vanbear slams his forehead into his own. Recovering from the blow, he begins to laugh maniacally, swinging his flaming sword left and right. "How foolish to think you could take out Jathune Voidstone with a mere headbutt. Do tell me what you'd like your headstone to read, filthy bugbear!"

He throws his fingers into the back of his throat and whistles loudly. A deep growl erupts from the southern corner of the camp.

Bandit's Bluff
-- Bold is up --
Van
Bandit Green
Gallix (readied)
Voidstone (-4)
Sirettis (readied)
Animal, Pamari
D.Arth, Rostam
Bandit Red
Uesugi

Brutal initiative. For those of you who already posted your actions, you may keep them or change them before you act. The headbutt initiated combat, so Gallix's KO punch hasn't yet gone off, but since he acts before Voidstone, it still can.

Van's bragging about his own accomplishments is somehow inspiring; +2 to hit, +2 damage, competence bonus.
You are hasted by arcane magic; +1 to hit, +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex, +30 ft movement, +1 attack.

It worked, it worked!

"My headstone shall contain the sum of my exploits! Including your defeat!"

Having finished with his boldness, Van hops a step back to cast an arcane spell and orate his many accomplishments. "My headstone shall speak of the storming of Fangwood Keep!"

5 foot step, cast haste, begin inspire courage. And that 4 damage is non-lethal.

Jeez, rough initiative.
Sirettis waits to see if Gallix can KO Jathune.

"My defeat? When I'm through with you, I shall consider roasting you over this campfire. Say, men, what say you to a dinner of bugbear this fine evening?" The bandits laugh, and one moves ahead to strike Van.

Mwk Heavy Mace, PA: 1d20 + 9 - 1 ⇒ (20) + 9 - 1 = 281d8 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 4 + 2 = 7
Confirm: 1d20 + 9 - 1 ⇒ (7) + 9 - 1 = 15

Buffs: Haste, Inspire Courage

Bandit's Bluff
-- Bold is up --
Van (-7)
Bandit Green
Gallix (readied)
Voidstone (4 NL)
Sirettis (readied)
Animal, Pamari
D.Arth, Rostam
Bandit Red
Uesugi

Gallix posted already, but is now hasted. Would he like to change/add to his action?

Well if I can change to a full attack, then you better believe I will!

"Grave Treader" smiles and gives Jathune a wink, then steps to the side to stand between him and the Pathfinders. With a supernatural burst of speed, he kicks at Jathune's hand, trying to dislodge the massive flaming sword from his grip. He follows the kick up with a couple hard punches, the last of which is aimed right at Jathune's jaw, just in the spot that would knock a regular humanoid unconscious.

Swift action to enter Outslug Style, 5ft step, Brawler's Flurry. First strike is a Disarm, second strike and iterative attack are cestus attacks. Hasted attack is the Knockout punch from before.
Active effects: Mutagen (+4 Str/-2 Int, +2 damage on melee attacks, +2 Natural Armor, +10ft base movement), Heroism (+2 Attacks/Skills/Saves), Inspire Courage (+2 Attack/Damage), Haste (+1 Attack, +1 Dodge AC, +1 Reflex), Outslug Style (+1 Dodge AC, +1 Cestus Damage)

Flurry Disarm, Mutagen, Heroism, IC, Haste: 1d20 + 13 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 13 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 34
Flurry Adamantine Cestus, Mutagen, Heroism, IC, Haste: 1d20 + 13 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 13 - 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 33 Damage, Mutagen, IC, Outslug: 1d6 + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 5 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 13
Mithral Cestus, Mutagen, Heroism, IC, Haste: 1d20 + 8 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 8 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 27 Damage, Mutagen, IC, Outslug: 1d6 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 6 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 19
Hasted attack is from my previous post. Add bonuses to attack from inspire courage and haste, add +3 damage for a total of 16 damage on that attack.

Fort Save: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17
Rounds: 1d6 ⇒ 6
"Grave Treader" rips the flaming sword from Voidstone's stony claws, then wallops him twice in the gut. As he lurches over and breathes deeply to recover from the brutal blows, she uppercuts him with a sledgehammer of a fist, and he flies back against the edge of the upper bluff, unconscious.

"Jathune!" Pamari scowls at "Grave Treader," her complexion burning with crimson flames. "Grave Treader, what is the meaning of this?! Have these people persuaded you to take out the Sundered Stones? What do you intend to do?"

Bandit's Bluff
-- Bold is up --
Van (-7)
Bandit Green
Gallix (readied)
Voidstone (-48, 4 NL, KOed 6 rds)
Sirettis (readied)
Animal, Pamari
D.Arth, Rostam
Bandit Red
Uesugi

With the bumbling leader temporarily defeated, Sirettis turns to Pamari. "As I have stated, we have no intent on harming you. Jathune's life is forefeit. You and Grave Treader will lead the Sundered Stones."

Sirettis will cast Charm Monster on Pamari. It's a DC 19 Will Save to resist.

"Please help us control the remaining members before this spirals out of control."

Sirettis flies 30 feet above the ground.

Will Save, threatened bonus: 1d20 + 6 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 6 + 5 = 14
"Yes, it's as you say," Pamari nods, her voice now soft and welcoming, "Drop your weapons, men. These are friends."

Both bandits look at Jathune, then at Pamari, then back at Jathune. They shrug in unison, dropping their weapons in surrender.

The growling, angry cheetah, being nonintelligent, comes sprinting out of its cage towards "Grave Treader." It snarls and leaps up to bite her belly.

Bite: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 191d6 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6

"Stonepaw, back off!" Pamari cries.

Bandit's Bluff
-- Bold is up --
Van (-7)
Bandit Green (surrendered)
Gallix
Voidstone (-48, 4 NL, KOed 6 rds)
Sirettis
Animal (angry), Pamari (friendly)
D.Arth, Rostam
Bandit Red (surrendered)
Uesugi