Karlan continues his seemingly implacable assault.
Attack 1
Attack 2
Attack 3
Current Effects:
Inspire Courage +2 Attack and Damage
B.O.F. (+2 attack and AC)
Haste
Smite Evil? (+4 Attack, +9 Damage, +4 AC)
Current Stats:
AC: 31
Cast Timely Inspiration on the last attack if it missed. great he's another +2 to the attack.
Bree attempts to break free from the creatures hold.
Bree manages to get into position and stabs at the thing, but is dismayed when her dagger does not have the punch to do a significant injury to this monstrosity!
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A growl rumbled through Kabal's chest as he was getting absolutely pummeled by the monster. He strained his arms in an attempt to get out of it's deathly grasp
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The creature doesn't respond the scream, perhaps it is its enormous size, perhaps its very nature resists magic...
It starts looking quite agitated, as though it is starting to hurt and doesn't wish to continue... it drops Kabal back to the swampy water and its head looks to the safety of the lake.
With one mighty tentacle it lashes ar Sir Karlan
Imp Bull Rush - sending him flying backwards 15'
The creature then starts its ponderous journey to the lake.
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Round 4
Hoping to keep the damage dealers from taking more damage, but help them attack, Ailetha moves forward attempting to distract the monster.
Move adjacent to the monster:
Attack-aid another: vs DC10
-->+2 for next attack by Kabal
If 26 or less its 15.
If 27 to 31 it would be 10.
Karlan can double check and apply accordingly
Bree doesnt land a hit...
Karlans base CMD is 26.
+4 deflection from smite
+2 dodge from BOF
+1 dodge from haste
33 CMD
so he's 15ft. away from me now correct?
Getting shoved back KArlan grits his teeth and leaps forward throgin himself bodily into his blows.
"There is no escape! There is only justice!"
Lunge-Full Attack-????-Profit
Current Effects:
Inspire Courage +2 Attack and Damage
B.O.F. (+2 attack and AC)
Haste
Smite Evil (+4 Attack, +9 Damage, +4 AC)
Lunge -2 AC
Current Stats:
AC: 29
Kabal couldnt believe his luck when he was dropped unceremoniously into the muck. He sucked in a big lungful of air and gave the beast a parting gift as it looked to escape back into the lake.
Round 4
Celestra, concerned for the safety of her companions channels energy to selectively heal her friends . "Cayden Cailean, guide me this day that I may keep us alive. Use me to bring the much needed healing to my companions."
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The last strike seems to stagger the beast, its enormous frame lurching from the blow! It maintains its stride for a moment before crashing down into the flood water in a tangled heap – but the thrill is short lived with the realisation the flood is rapidly receding, drawing anything not tied down with it back into the lake with its strong undertow – you fight to keep your footing and move to the church to avoid being drawn away and into the lake. The body of the creature, poised as it is on the bank is no exception and the still form finds itself unable to dam the waters and is instead carried with them, the lake claims it for its own, and the world returns to normality.
A cheer rises from the villagers who have gathered on the shores to watch - ”The waters flow away! We’re saved” cries one impassioned townsman, ”The liberators of the Fort have bested Black Magga!” shouts another in awe, his companion seems confused though "Shes from the Storval Deep, what is she doing in Skull River!?" – much debate breaks out about the who, why, and where of it all.
Mayor Shreed approaches you all, cap in hand, he surveys the wreckage the waters have caused, and the wounds you bear from the battle... he addresses himself mostly to Sir Karlan, but also respectfully includes the rest of the company
”All signs point north - something must have happened at Skull's Crossing. Further up the Skull River sits an ancient Thassilonian Dam. When, in the past, storms threatened to spill over the dam, the structure's floodgates opened automatically to release water pressure in a controlled flow. None of us in Turtleback Ferry know exactly how the mechanism for opening the floodgates works, as Skull's Crossing has long been the den of a tribe of trolls known as the Skulltakers. Yet as long as anyone can remember, the floodgates have functioned without fault. If the floodgates are malfunctioning, someone needs to brave the wrath of the Skulltaker trolls to determine what, if anything, can be done to repair the dam before a cataclysmic flood washes the entire region away.” his tone bears the note of concern and deep worry.
After a few moments, he continues -
”I’ve no right to ask more of you, and Turtleback Ferry is far from a rich village, but if you can prevent a more deadly flood by opening the floodgates, I can raise a reward of one thousand gold sails”
He looks at you, pleadingly, the townsfolk mirror his expression.
Everyone is looking at Karlan.
A cheer rises from the villagers who have gathered on the shores to watch - ”The waters flow away! We’re saved” cries one impassioned townsman, ”The liberators of the Fort have bested Black Magga!” shouts another in awe, his companion seems confused though "Shes from the Storval Deep, what is she doing in Skull River!?" – much debate breaks out about the who, why, and where of it all.
"Wait, wait, my good people. Slow down and tell me what that was. Before any decisions are made, I would like to know what is going on. Now, one at a time, please. Who exactly was Black Magga? Why do you think she was attacking the town? Not that I am an expert by any means, but this does not seem like ordinary behavior for a creature of the deep."
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What follows in response to Celestra's comment is a mish-mash of old wives tales, wild fishermens tales, and all manner of guesstimation and supposition - the only common theme appears to be that the creature is known as Black Magga, a folklorish monster said to control the seas and oceans and bring with it fierce storms, and that it is a creature almost as old as time - though not as strong as she was when the world was still young.
"She's immune to even the magic of the Gods!" shouts one old woman knowingly, "It's said if you drink her blood, no magic can ever touch you!" asserts another villager, "Hey they said if you see her ever, you will develop boils and vomit blood - unable to say her name" calls yet another - confused -noting no blood or boils about his person.
No one seems to be able to answer why she'd attack the town, let alone find her way into Skull River - she should be out in the ocean haunting the shipping lanes. Indeed the very conversation draws even more confusion and supposition, theories and ideas multiply and become hard to follow. There is an answer, perhaps, but it is not with these rustic peoples.
Bree pauses as Celestra's unfamiliar magic washes over her to heal her wounds. "Feels different," she mumbles under her breath. She stands watching the creature be dragged away with the water for a moment before moving to stand beside Kabal. She listens intently as the stranger explains his theories to Karlan, and makes it clear that he expects them to deal with the problem. She glances around at the group to watch their reactions but stays quiet; one arm crossed beneath her breasts the other twirling the tip of her braid back and forth.
"Gratitude Celestra."
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"Huh...", was Kabal's reply to the tales from the villagers. He could still feel Black Magga's grip and he breathed deep just to remind himself that he could.
He knew that the group would be going on whatever quest these good people asked if Karlan and the others were even half the goody goody that Winter is...and that means Bree and I also...oh well, things were getting boring in Riddleport...
Ailetha listens to the combination of wives tales and historical inaccuracies while attempting to discern whether she has read or heard anything of this Black Magga, or the dam, while researching the ancient Thassolian empire.
Lore Master- Take-20 on Knowledge(history, geography) = 31
--> trying to recall anything about Black Magga and the dam, and whatever water basin lies behind the dam
"Feels different,"
"Look at you, dear. You still have wounds from that battle. Here, let me see what I can do to help."
Celestra channels energy once again to heal the company of their lingering wounds.
Once again, with another waft of strong amber beer smell and a powerful healing light, a burst of healing fills the area.
"Gratitude Celestra."
"You are always welcome, Kabal." Celestra responds with a small curtsey. "I appreciate you taking on the beast as much as you did. You certainly did show a lot of courage there. I think Cayden Cailean always smiles down upon the courageous. Will you let me show my gratitude with a strong ale back at the tavern?"
"She's immune to even the magic of the Gods!" shouts one old woman knowingly, "It's said if you drink her blood, no magic can ever touch you!" asserts another villager, "Hey they said if you see her ever, you will develop boils and vomit blood - unable to say her name" calls yet another - confused -noting no blood or boils about his person.
"Well, my friends, there are certainly a lot of questions that need answered. I am certainly delighted to see that you are all safe for the present. With regards to helping you, well I know that I am willing to help, but I don't want to speak for the rest of my companions."
Celestra gives a look over to Karlan and the others to see how they respond.
Bree shudders slightly as Celestra divine healing washes over her once more. "Thank you," Bree mumbles to the other woman.
Then, as Celestra heaps her praise on Kabal, a giggle escapes Bree's lips. Her face turns red in embarrassment at her own behavior as she looks to the ground and pulls her hood up to hide her face.
With her head still down, she speaks just loud enough to be heard, "I will leave the decision to Kabal and Sable. I dragged them here to help at Harry's behest, but Harry has left. I can't ask them to stay if they do not wish to do so. Still, it doesn't seem right to leave when our aid is needed."
Ailetha is rather surprised that anyone would not offer support, but for completely different reasons than the others:
Said not to the local populace:
We have been tracking strange Thassolian happenings now for months. First in Sandpoint, then in Magnimar, and now here. The fact that an ancient and legendary creature arrived here, a creature that according to local rumors, and the Mayor, was behind a dam of Thassolian make, a dam that has worked perfectly to regulate the flow of water for thousands of years, and now suddenly decides to up and cease functioning, to me is more than a mere coincidence.
Of course we must go and investigate this dam, and whatever trolls may be in the area. We must learn what this dam is, who made it, why it malfunctioned, and whether it can be repaired.
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Ailetha listens to the combination of wives tales and historical inaccuracies while attempting to discern whether she has read or heard anything of this Black Magga, or the dam, while researching the ancient Thassolian empire.
Lore Master- Take-20 on Knowledge(history, geography) = 31
--> trying to recall anything about Black Magga and the dam, and whatever water basin lies behind the dam
Ailetha has heard the tales before as well, however as Black Magga is a strange and unique creature, none of these tales have ever been confirmed - indeed at one point they may have been true, that she is prone to sleeping for centuries and is far less a beast now than she was at the height of her power means even if it was true once it is unlikely today. Perhaps something, or someone, knowing her ability to control seas and tendency to create storms called on her?
Regarding the dam, Skull's Crossing is the name of the massive arch dam that holds back the water of the Storval Deep, releasing a steady stream into the Skull River Located in central Varisia. It is an ancient ruin from the Thassilonian era over 10,000 years ago.
Skull's Crossing was the final great work of engineering completed by the enslaved giants of the runelord Karzoug. Most of the stone quarried to build the many monuments and cities all over the Thassilonian empire was taken from a single gigantic quarry on what is now the Storval Plateau. When this source was finally played out, Karzoug decided to do away with such a hideous eyesore, and had the dam built. That way the water of the river would cover the huge empty hole, and ordered that the dam be decorated by one of his favourite symbols, the human skull.
Karlan frowns as yet another political figure offers him a large sum that seems to look smaller and smaller as the moments pass.
"I'll look into it." Karlan glances at the others. "It's up to them if they want to follow."
Drenched in mud and blood (mostly not is own) Karlan turns back to the rest of the group. "Why am I not surprised that the flood has been caused by a Thassilonian dam breaking?"
Ailetha shakes her head:
I doubt it broke. If my understanding is correct, such a dam breaking would have released far more water, in a much shorter period. More likely it has been opened by someone, or something. How Black Magga got here is anyone's guess. Perhaps she was hibernating at the bottom, and was swept through the locks when they were opened.
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"An ale of any sort would be appreciated Celestra.", Kabal replied and pointedly ignored any talk of some god taking notice of him...look too close bub and you'll get that divine eye dotted...
He spit and shook his head at the villagers reaction to Karlan...simple people have no idea what the real world is like... The big man was starting to get a headache. Although whether it was from all this weird talk of dam controls, Thassiloni- whatevers, skulls, trolls or from the blood being squeezed into his thick head by the Magga's crushing embrace was hard to tell at this point.
"Atta boy Karlan. Count me in and that means Bree and Sable too I reckon. I've always wanted to kill some trolls."
"An ale of any sort would be appreciated Celestra.", Kabal replied and pointedly ignored any talk of some god taking notice of him...look too close bub and you'll get that divine eye dotted...
"Splendid! After we wrap up with the town folk, we can head back to the pub. I'm curious to hear your story, Kabal. It is not often that one gets crushed by a gargantuan sea monster and lives to tell the tale. I bet you've got many a good tale to tell in there."
Bree turns her head to look at Kabal from beneath her hood, and with a slight smile says, "Of course you have. I hope they have stronger stuff than ale."
"You are most welcome to join us, Bree! I'm eager to hear your stories as well. It is so refreshing to have some company on this next adventure. Our former leader, Mister Handsome, always ran a tight ship and was never one to encourage visiting. You can imagine how someone like me always took that kind of strictness. Needless to say, when the cat's away, the mice do play! So, my dear, where did you say you've come from?"
"Stories? Oh... uh... yeah maybe. Harry strict? You're kidding, right? I'm from Riddleport. Well, near there somewhere, really. It's been so long I don't really remember exactly where. I spent most of my time in Riddleport, though. That's where I met Harry, when we were kids."
While the others attempt to drown their sorrows in alcohol, Ailetha will speak with the Mayor and attempt to learn whether he might have any documents about the lay of the land around the Skull's Crossing dam. And, any information about the trolls or anything else that might inhabit the area around the dam.
The mayor provides two maps (in handouts folder) but has little of use about the trolls - no one in the village heads up that way, and none of the rangers went there - they only warded trolls from coming down...sometimes.
"Stories? Oh... uh... yeah maybe. Harry strict? You're kidding, right? I'm from Riddleport. Well, near there somewhere, really. It's been so long I don't really remember exactly where. I spent most of my time in Riddleport, though. That's where I met Harry, when we were kids."
"You knew Harry as a kid?! That must have been interesting! What was he like? Was he still chasing the ladies around back then?"
Once the gathering disbands, Celestra will accompany the others back to the Inn where she makes the best at starting a grand celebration.
"I think we need music tonight! Where is Ailetha when we need her? Is she already out making plans for the assault on Skull's Crossing? I've been trying to show that girl a good time, but she takes her learning very seriously."
In town there is "The Turtle’s Parlor"
This inn has a calm atmosphere where weary travelers can refresh themselves with food, drink and entertainment. Usually music is played by visiting bards. There is a big common room and there are several smaller rooms on the second floor for the guests, a few with a beautiful view of Claybottom Lake.
Just on the edge of town is the "Bottoms Up"
This tavern is frequented by visiting hunters, trappers and scoundrels looking for drinks. Bar fights are not uncommon but are usually broken up by Vorn, the well grown owner. You can get food, but the usual stew is usually only ordered once because of its taste.
I assume you stay at the Turtle.
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Kabal was more than pleased that Celestra had shifted her focus to Bree...by the abyss...its like all those words have been bottled up for weeks... Still, He enjoyed hearing women's voices. It was a good background sound to killing a headache with ale... as long as they dont starting yapping about dresses, children and the like...
Bree squirms uncomfortably before replying, "He was OK, I guess. I didn't want to stab him very often. I guess he was good with the girls, yeah. I can't say I really paid that close of attention. I was, ah, preoccupied."
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Slamming his empty mug down on the table and gesturing for another round, Kabal laughed aloud and interjected, "Hah! Preoccupied? You mean with girls right? You should've seen her get all rosy cheeked when that drow wench planted a wet one on her lips...now that was something." Clearly the drinks compounded with the loss of blood was making the Brevian more talkative than usual.
As if to demonstrate, Bree's face turns bright red. "I... I... She kiss me on the lips. It was my forehead. After she stabbed me in the stomach and I was falling to the ground bleeding out. And how would you even know what my face looked like? You hadn't even managed to get yourself atop the Cypher Gate yet!" She looks to Sable in hopes he'll back her version of the story up.
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Having glided back down to earth, Sable joins his companions. "Looks a terrible mess from up there. It would have been nice to know about the immunity to magic... or to claim some of Black Magga's blood.. In for a copper, though. I will see this through." Sable listens to what Bree says and adds in, smiling. "You know, I was shocked to learn that my dark kin existed, they were the stuff of legends, but I was shocked even more to find that one could make Bree blush."