Ascending up the stairwell leads to a library, with tall bookcases fill this impressive chamber. The elaborate fresco on the ceiling depicts devotees of Irori in meditation. Wisps of incense wind through the scene like a fanciful ribbon of smoke.
Perception (DC 30, Melisande/Kegan/Testudo gain +10 to check)):
You look around the chamber, and note that one of the bookcases on the western side of the room appears to have scrape marks near the bottom. Inspecting it closer, you realize that the bookcase can be pulled outwards to reveal a secret door beyond; which opens up into a hallway that curves around the exterior of the library chamber. The hallway eventually ends to face an iron door covered in complex sigils and runes painted in delicate black lacquer—a message repeated over and over in several languages, including Common: “Beware! Dark Oblivion Lies Within!”
M Ifrit CG Swashbuckler 6 | 52/52 HP| AC 26 Tch 15 Fl 21| CMB +7 CMD 21 | F +5 R +10 W +3 Resist Fire 5 | Init +5 | Perc +9 Darkvision | Speed 60, fly 90 | Panache 4/4 | CL 1/4 | Reroll 0/1 | Lucky Number 17 | Active Conditions: Longarm, Shield, Haste
Perception:1d20 + 9 + 10 ⇒ (20) + 9 + 10 = 39
"Interesting!" Kegan says as he inspects one of the bookcases. He spends a moment inspecting it, then pulls it out revealing a secret hallway!
"Let's check it out!"
Kegan would go down there, but want at least one other with him. Going alone is how people die in all the horror stories! Go ahead and read all the spoiler at this point.
The hallway eventually ends to face an iron door covered in complex sigils and runes painted in delicate black lacquer—a message repeated over and over in several languages, including Common: Beware! Dark Oblivion Lies Within! The complex locking mechanism has a very obvious keyhole in its midst, which matches the black key dropped by Kanjougas earlier in the hidden tomb. Inserting and turning the key begins a several minutes-long process of several mechanisms winding and clicking, resulting in the door soundlessly swinging open afterwards.
A drone, like the sound of a vast wind, fills this room beyond, yet the air is cold and still. A fifteen-foot square of arcane symbols is inscribed on the floor. Two five-foot-square areas of similar writing sit to the northeast and southeast of the larger one. Above the larger square hovers what appears to be a vertical hole in reality—a window that looks out into a night sky in which only a few tiny stars are visible. The window itself is fifteen feet square, running from the north and south points of the symbol below. It’s suspended a foot off the ground, and comes within three feet of the ceiling above.
What's With the Squares (Detect Magic + Knowledge (Arcana) DC 20):
You identify a strong transmutation aura radiating from the squares on the floor.
What's With the Squares? (Spellcraft DC 25):
You identify that the runes that make up the smaller squares on the floor amplify magic cast while standing within them, but only when the magic targets something (or someone) in the larger square before them. Any spell cast while standing in the small square targeting something in the large square has its effective Caster Level raised by 2. There may be additional effects that might be gleaned from studying the runes, but that would require additional time to inspect them (e.g. at least 10 minutes).
The Dark Window (Detect Magic + Knowledge (Arcana) DC 25):
You instantly develop a migraine while looking at the midnight-black square of star-filled nothingness, leading you to believe that this "Window" is not quite artifact-level magic...but it is pretty close. It radiates overwhelming auras of conjuration, divination, abjuration, and transmutation.
Peering into the Window(Within 15 feet and DC 20 Perception):
You look into the star-filled void beyond the Window, and you can make out faint shapes moving amongst the lights; all of which seem unsettling and alien in outline. Several of them appear to be oriented in your direction and almost seem to be looking directly at you.
A DC 20 Will save is needed to avoid becoming shaken for 1 minute (fear effect) by these shapes and their unnerving gaze.
[HP: 63/63, AC 20/14/14, F+8/R+11/W+5, CMB +6, CMD 20, Perc. +12, Init +4, Bombs 12/12, Temp HP 0/0]
"Destroy what, the window?
What is special about it enough for it to be destroyed?"
Locke glances over the window.
Perception:1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24 Will:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6
However, upon seeing whatever is beyond, sends the chills through Locke's spine, who backs away from it with haste, almost bumping into Kegan as they step back.
"Sorry. You are correct, this thing -has to be destroyed-"
The squares look like another conjuration boosting magic device, raising the power of the caster for some spells.
Kn(Arcana) for the window:1d20 + 17 ⇒ (17) + 17 = 34
From what I can see, the window is an artifact. I don't know whether it is something that could be removed from this space.
Melisande moves closer to the window, investigating in more detail.
Perception:1d20 + 14 ⇒ (13) + 14 = 27
That is... Something is looking back at me. I don't think I like it. Perhaps a window to the great old ones?
Will:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9
If this window is an artifact as I suspect, we have nothing within our power that would destroy it. I wonder if there is some way for us to prevent others from looking into it. I would not recommend the experience to anyone else...
If this window is an artifact as I suspect, we have nothing within our power that would destroy it. I wonder if there is some way for us to prevent others from looking into it.
GM Irish202 wrote:
There may be additional effects that might be gleaned from studying the runes, but that would require additional time to inspect them (e.g. at least 10 minutes).
You feel like you might be able to find a method to disable the Dark Window if you spend more time studying the squares, but I didn't want to assume you would spend the 10+ minutes without you confirming first. Let me know if you want to spend the time and I will reveal more appropriately.
I might be able to close or disable it, but I would need to spend some additional time studying it. Do we want to take that time, or move forward and come back to this?
We're going to take the time now. Do you need a check of any kind from me to make it happen?
Nope, with your Spellcraft bonus you default the check no problem.
Melisande begins her in-depth investigations into the runic symbols inscribed in the floor, time passing that seems to stretch almost endlessly under the incredibly heavy sensation of being watched by something (or things) through the Dark Window.
Melisande:
After having more intimate understanding of the magicks in play, you now understand the magic squares in the floor have more subtle and hidden uses in regards to the Dark Window. While there are numerous commands and spells that could be used to manipulate and focus the Window, you realize that the monks put in a failsafe method to assist with destroying the Window if needed. The magic-boosting functionality of the squares act differently when magics that use force-based energies are cast, disproportionately increasing their power ten-fold and granting such force spells the ability to pierce hardness of objects. You surmise that the Dark Window could be destroyed using force-based offensive magics in such a manner.
Testudo:
As you are idling on standby while Melisande goes about her inspections, the heavy presence of being watched abruptly intensifies after about 10 minutes post entry to the room. The vivid image of a tree-like abomination overwhelms your mind's eye, as an unyielding command attempts to subvert your will.
DO OR SAY NOTHING UNTIL I APPEAR, DEFEND ME FROM ALL ATTACKS
I will need you to make a DC 21 Will Save versus a mind-affecting compulsion effect. Failing so will result in your character being compelled to follow the above command as per suggestion. If you make the save, your character is aware of the hostile attempt to take over your mind and will be able to alert your party what is happening before initiative triggers.
Remaining 4th: 4/5, 3rd: 7/7, 2nd: 6/7, 1st: 6/7, Channel Energy: 5/5, Master of Pentacles: 1/1, Energy Body 9/9, Boots 3/3
Tereze moves away from the window standing near the corner close behind where Kegan is watching.
She keeps shooting terrified looks back at the window.
It is going to come through and get me again. It will take me this time and there will be no ‘Nama to save me. I will be sucked in to drown in the river of souls. It will consume me and release the creature. It will
You see her actually draw her morning star as she stands trembling against the wall as far as she can get from the portal.
This is most curious. The circle appears to focus conjuration magic, but also to have a magnifying effect on force magic, increasing their power and potentially allowing them to destroy the window. I have a little bit of force magic at my disposal, let me try it.
Melisande moves into the casting position of the squares and casts Magic Missile at the [i]Dark Window[/b].
I cast Magic Missile at the darkness... I just hope there are no wild gazebos running around here.
Melisande moves into the casting position of the squares and casts Magic Missile at the Dark Window.
As Melisande casts the spell, the bolts of force shoot through the air with abruptly increased speed and light; leaving miniature sonic booms behind as they crash into the Dark Window like miniature rockets. Surprisingly, the Window lets off a cracking noise not unlike damaged glass; though the Window itself still remains intact.
After this occurs, the air pressure in the room drops sharply as a loud pop noise fills the room. Immediately after this, a large alien creature shaped like a monstrous tree appears in the chamber next to Melisande!
Initiative Order:
Alien Tree
Melisande
Locke
Tereze
Kegan
Testudo
Slipping in post before work, will have Knowledge check spoilers later this evening
M Ifrit CG Swashbuckler 6 | 52/52 HP| AC 26 Tch 15 Fl 21| CMB +7 CMD 21 | F +5 R +10 W +3 Resist Fire 5 | Init +5 | Perc +9 Darkvision | Speed 60, fly 90 | Panache 4/4 | CL 1/4 | Reroll 0/1 | Lucky Number 17 | Active Conditions: Longarm, Shield, Haste
Hearing Tereze call out, Kegan goes into the room and sees the new tentacle tree. Figuring something like that can’t be good, he rushes up to it with his Rapier and attempts to strike it.
[HP: 63/63, AC 20/14/14, F+8/R+11/W+5, CMB +6, CMD 20, Perc. +12, Init +4, Bombs 12/12, Temp HP 0/0]
Locke, like Kegan, hurries into the room at the sudden cry from Tereze.
"What in the world....."
Kn. Nature?:1d20 + 15 ⇒ (17) + 15 = 32
It is deemed time to set it on fire, because that is just evil.
Unless knowledge check is inappropriate, or reveals fire immunity.
Rt:1d20 + 11 ⇒ (7) + 11 = 18Fire dmg, PBS:4d6 + 6 ⇒ (4, 2, 2, 3) + 6 = 17 It is set on fire on direct hit. DC 18 reflex to put it out.
Excluding allies from the blast.
You know for absolute certainty that this creature in front of you is most definitely not a tree of any kind.
Knowledge Planes (DC 19):
You identify this creature as a yangethe, an alien entity bred by the Dominion of the Black. These monsters feed on emotions of their victims, and will frequently organize humanoid farms on which to sustain themselves. They possess the ability to teleport between planets, making these creatures vanguards or scouts for invasions into other worlds. They possess moderate spell resistance, have defenses best bypasses by slashing or piercing weapons, and are immune to cold and mind-affecting abilities. May ask 1 additional question for every 5 above the DC.
Kegan wrote:
Figuring something like that can’t be good, he rushes up to it with his Rapier and attempts to strike it.
Kegan stabs his rapier at the creature, but his blade is unable to pierce its thick bark/hide. Miss
Locke wrote:
It is deemed time to set it on fire, because that is just evil.
Locke's bomb strikes the alien creature, exploding in an effective burst of fire that causes the monster to let off an otherworldly keening noise.
Initiative Order:
Alien Tree -17, on fire
Melisande
Locke
Tereze
Kegan
Testudo
Melisande takes a 5ft step back and casts Burning Hands defensively
The gout of flame seem to slide right off the tree as the magic fails to pierce the creature's spell resistance.
Testudo turns to Locke as he lifts the visor on his helmet, the alchemist noting that the turtle knight's eyes have changed to an eerie black color with no pupils. "MUST DEFEND FRIEND FROM ALL ATTACKS!" he shouts as reaches over to grab hold of Locke's throat with a mailed fist!
If a 20 beats your CMD, you are now grappled, Locke.
The yangethe flails its branches (limbs?) as the flames from Locke's bomb continue to burn away at the creature. Motes of piercingly bright starlight begin to dance around its branches as a cloying miasma abruptly blasts forth to fill the chamber in front of the yangethe, filling the minds of the Pathfinders with wracking pain in their minds!
Everyone will need to make a DC 18 will save vs a mind-affecting compulsion effect. Failure will result in becoming confused as per confusion and taking 38 points of non-lethal damage. Success negates the confusion and halves the non-lethal damage.
Initiative Order:
Round 2
Alien Tree -17, on fire
Melisande (DC 18 Will needed)
Locke (DC 18 Will needed, possibly grappled)
Tereze (DC 18 Will needed)
Kegan (DC 18 Will needed)
Testudo (-19 non-lethal)
[HP: 63/63, AC 20/14/14, F+8/R+11/W+5, CMB +6, CMD 20, Perc. +12, Init +4, Bombs 12/12, Temp HP 0/0]
Quick question. With the turtle knight obviously mind controlled, what will happen if he orders Roshi to attack any of us? Roshi's not mind controlled, as has thus far seen us as allies?
*HURK*
Locke grasps frantically at Testudo's firm grip.
"What has gotten into you?"
Will:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (11) + 3 = 14 1d100 ⇒ 18
A sudden wave of uncomfortable vibe enters Locke's body. But they manage to pull through, somehow. Locke mentally activates the limited healing, to remove the nl dmg to 33.
Melisande shakes off the mental effect, then steps over toward Locke, and will cast Grease on their armor. Gives a +10 to escape artist or attempts to break a grapple.
Quick question. With the turtle knight obviously mind controlled, what will happen if he orders Roshi to attack any of us? Roshi's not mind controlled, as has thus far seen us as allies?
Good question. I would probably have to make Testudo do a Handle Animal check with some penalties to push it to do something it otherwise would not do. However, it is not the turtle's attack you should be worried about ;)
**queue evil DM laughing in background**
Locke wrote:
CMB to break free?
The alchemist struggles vainly in the turtle knight's grasp, unable to break free...at least until Melisande gives him a slippery boost with her grease spell! Locke squelches out of Testudo's grasp, his freedom regained at least for now.
Waiting on Tereze until this evening before botting.
Initiative Order:
Round 2
Alien Tree -17, on fire
Melisande (-19 NL)
Locke (-33 NL, Confused)
Tereze (DC 18 Will needed)
Kegan (-38 NL, 6 Lethal, Confused)
Testudo (-19 non-lethal, Mentally-Controlled somehow)
Then Tereze quickly steps over and casts a spell finishing by touching Testudo.
Cast Defensibly (DC 17):1d20 + 11 ⇒ (20) + 11 = 31 Cast Protection from evil and touch Testudo. If the Tree is evil then he should get a new Will save vs mental control with a +2 Morale bonus, but I need to touch him to get this off. Touch:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20
If both attacks hit, I believe Locke would fall unconscious due to his NL damage exceeding his hit point total after the attacks.
Fire Damage:1d6 ⇒ 3
The Yangethe continues to burn with the alchemical flames engulfing it! It turns its focus to Kegan as it unleashes a flurry of claw and tentacle attacks!
By my calculations, Kegan falls unconscious after the 1st claw attack due to his NL damage exceeding his hit points. The yangethe would then 5-foot eastwards and continue its attack upon (1 is Tereze, 2 is Melisande:1d2 ⇒ 1), changing targets to the other PC if that target falls unconscious. Tereze would fall unconscious after the third tentacle attack due to non-lethal exceeding hit points, ending up with Melisande potentially in a tentacle grapple but still conscious.
Will pause briefly if anyone has any boons or other actions they wish to call upon to change outcomes.
Remaining 4th: 4/5, 3rd: 7/7, 2nd: 6/7, 1st: 6/7, Channel Energy: 5/5, Master of Pentacles: 1/1, Energy Body 9/9, Boots 3/3
I totally forgot that the non lethal damage counts for the concentration check. Sorry about that. Just so you know, life link is going to keep going until I die. So next round, everyone who has at least 5 real damage is going to heal 5 HP and 5 non lethal. Oh and I take all the real damage that they heal until I die.
That's short of the DC32 required, so I have no way to escape the grapple and no way to do anything other than wand it with magic missile next round. Failing something from anyone else I'd say that Melisande is dead.
Testudo turns to Locke as he lifts the visor on his helmet, the alchemist noting that the turtle knight's eyes have changed to an eerie black color with no pupils. "MUST DEFEND FRIEND FROM ALL ATTACKS!" he shouts as reaches over to grab hold of Locke's throat with a mailed fist!he abruptly thrusts his lance out twice at Locke, but missing both times!
Melisande wrote:
Melisande shakes off the mental effect, then steps over toward Locke, and will cast Grease on their armor. Gives a +10 to escape artist or attempts to break a grapple.Testudo's lance in an attempt to get him to drop the weapon. Unfortunately, his grip remains firm as he yanks the weapon out of the conjured grease!
Locke wrote:
Locke grasps frantically at Testudo's firm grip.Fly over Testudo into the exit, and lob a frost bomb at him, to slow him down, hopefully buying summoned allies some time for further withdraw. All the while heartbeat going fast from anxiety.
A cold bomb strikes Testudo, exploding and dealing him damage but unable to slow down his actions!
Locke wrote:
I'd like to use my boon from the Dragon's Demand 1 chronicle, to call for the aid of Nighttail and Hak.
Suddenly, from out of the shadows appears a green-scaled kobold riding a medium-sized allosaurus! The kobold swings the butt of his spear in surprise sneak attack to clang against Testudo's helmet with a resounding clang that causes it to spin briefly as the turtle knight falls unconscious. Roshi begins to shuffle out of the room as Testudo slumps in the saddle, dragging the unconscious body of Kegan out with him. The draconian pair then rush up to the yangethe, their appearance startling the alien enough to cause it to drop Melisande from its grasp. The kobold and dinosaur distract the creature long enough for Melisande and Locke to drag Tereze from the room, as the rune-covered obsidian door to the chamber slams shut behind them with a resounding boom!. The whirring and clicking of gears fill the air as the lock begins to reset into place, mixed with the odd sounds of two loud wet thuds slamming into the other side of the door.
A brief silence lays heavy in the hallway outside the chamber after the weight of just what occur settles on the remaining Pathfinders that are conscious, as the sounds of the alien pounding repeatedly on the now-excessively-locked door begin and continue...endlessly.
The confusion from the psychic blast lasts 10 rounds, needing 9 more rolls. Rolling dice in spoiler below, it may need some discussion to resolve.
[HP: 63/63, AC 20/14/14, F+8/R+11/W+5, CMB +6, CMD 20, Perc. +12, Init +4, Bombs 12/12, Temp HP 0/0]
It looks like Locke and Melisande have least distance to move for evacuating Tereze, over Roshi dragging Kegan away?
So, just to see how my HP goes, if previous is true.
[HP: 63/63, AC 20/14/14, F+8/R+11/W+5, CMB +6, CMD 20, Perc. +12, Init +4, Bombs 12/12, Temp HP 0/0]
Once back to full control of mental state, Locke leans against the wall near Tereze, waiting for her to wake up.
Calming down was nowhere near yet, for their heart still felt like it would nearly jump out its place.
While very very relieved to be alive, there was the feeling of regret, that an ally sacrificed their lives to save the group. Ballsy heroic though it was.
If Melisande immediately heals Tereze after exiting the room with the 1st wand charge, she becomes conscious again and can choose to alter her life links if she wishes. It appears that Roshi's confusion attacks shift to Locke when Melisande disappears, which would result in 8 and 9 more points of damage to him.
