Way of the Wicked - The fall of Andoran, Chapter II (Inactive)

Game Master increddibelly

"But will our transportation fit, though?"

nice perception roll, I'll use yours for more info, since Oret easily spotted the goblins.

I'm assuming the treant is some distance away from our current position.

"Hmm." Sindran leans forward to take a closer look. "I'd say it is. Shall we go in or does one of you want to search for another entrance Don't take too long though, we'll have to change positions when the treant approaches."

Oret shakes his head. "We should get the goblins to help us look for the horn."

The big tree has passed by less than half an hour ago, you expect him back in these parts in +/- 2 hours. There is time for your investigations.

Does anyone speak goblin? They sure don't speak common. If no, I may have given you their prayer when it should've been spoiler tagged, and communicating with them would be more difficult as well.

Caladwhen does. I . . . do not. But I sure do have Tongues!

"You mean get them to guide us through the horn. But I agree. It is fortunate that we stumbled onto them."

That said, Sindran focuses his attention on the Horn again, looking for another entrance.

Perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6

Sorry, this is a catch up post. As to the above question, Goblinoid is among the eleven languages she speaks... she can translate, so save that 3rd level spell Sindran, we might need it badly if we run into another Dinosaur, or worse.

From earlier...

Observing Zadaria and the Baron's new found intimacy with slight amusement, Caladwhen shakes her head with a groan once safely assured she is out of earshot. "That woman is almost as insufferable as Tiadora, and every bit as untrustworthy. Nevertheless, I'll gladly leave her the unenviable task of beguiling that revolting man."

With a more serious tone, Cala speaks with hushed voice "If the time should arise gentlemen, we should be prepared to... deal with the 7th Knot if necessary." Her emphasis on the word deal leaves little mistaking her meaning.

At the horn

"It's a prayer." Walking up behind Oret, Caladwhen answers his inquiry in a frank and direct manner. "Goblins are a superstitious race, and believe all forms of writing evil, hence their traditions and knowledge are handed down through rhyme. It could be a password, but it may also possible they are fearful of some sort of trap of protection guarding the horn."

Assessing the situation, Caladwhen ponders aloud "Now, itt might be possible to bend them to our will, but that would likely involve a show of strength of some form. Theirs is a primitive species that values physical strength above all else." Pausing a moment, Caladwhen adds "You know, I find these goblins peculiar... they're physically stronger than any goblin I've experimented on."

By the way IB, I loved your smart, but not proper smart comment :)

Sindran focuses his attention on the Horn again, looking for another entrance.

Try as you might, you find none here.

In Talon's mind, a voice speaks:
"green men to green man? But first, Tool should... work... with fool"
It is suggesting a course of action, and you get the distinct feeling that 'to work with' someone implies a very short and messy relationship. But who would be the fool in this context..?

Aerent waits, impatiently.

Just a post to let everyone know I'm still watching, reading. Nothing to add right now.

well, come on villains; someone's going to have to do something for anything to happen :) do you want go to the goblins and make friends or victims? Or shall we go look for another entrance?

Goblins it is!

"I'd prefer not going in blind. We should gather more intelligence before entering the Horn," Sindran says, nudging the zombiebus with his foot. "By more direct means than scouting, I think. Let's go meet the goblins."

"Let's go meet the goblins."

Caladwhen knows about these creatures' gullibility and besides, Oret has the wisdom to know that first impressions are everything with Goblins. How do you present yourself to the goblin sentries?

Talon nods, believing he gets Rygats meaning "I agree Sindran. We'll get rid of them after they have are no longer of use to us"

"Ah, but things always have a use."

Sindran starts chanting, weaving fiery strands of magic around himself.

Cast Tongues on myself, Light on my chain shirt, and then I use my Iron Circlet to change my clothes into an impressive-looking set of spiky blood-red armor with helmet.

The half-orc adjusts himself on top of the zombie dinosaur, looking forward into the Horn. "I'll go first."

I was going to suggest that Sindran might be the best person to impress upon the goblins. I think we should try to pass him off as an avatar of their deity, or something to that effect. Caladwhen can add a little flare by having him stroll in on the Zombiesaur in an Obscuring mist... and even cast Fly on him for added impressiveness.

Nodding agreeably, Caladwhen confers "Agreed Sindran, I think you're the best among us to lend a strong first impression with the goblins." Motioning at the Zombie Ankylosaurus, Caladwhen telepathically orders it to follow Sindran reverently. "I would suggest claiming the identity of an avatar of their god, Lamashtu."

Looking towards the horn, Caladwhen adds quietly "Let me know when you're ready, I'll add some spectacle to this farce."

I referenced Lamashtu, since that is who most goblinoids worship in Golarion. Just in-case I'm way off though, here is a Knowledge Religion roll... as Caladwhen is likely to know.

Knowledge Religion: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20

No need to waste your spells as well. I think Sindran can handle flair.

"Too messy. I'll let them assume what they wish. I'm ready."

Carrying a terrible warrior, the undead monster emerges from the treeline, and trudges forward across the relatively foliage-free area around the horn's base. As soon as the full size of the zombie is free of the trees, the plant-nay-guard-post starts to move violently, as the goblins emerge.

"...Do they expect me to stay here? Let's move on."

Sindran directs the undead dinosaur to follow the goblins.

even before you get 3 steps farther, a sharklike goblin with an impossibly bent back takes two big jumps from his hiding place above the cavern entrance, and leaps down onto a large rock near the cavern mouth.
From his higher ground, he points his staff at Sindran in a theatrical manner. He speaks quickly, as if trying to get the words out before someone or something catches him.

"Are you the Father?"

He quickly looks you up and down, and retraces your steps towards your origin at the edge of the forest, spotting some shadows; he moves his head sideways in thought, quickly coming to a conclusion.
"I don't think you are. They," he says, nodding towards the cavern's entrance, "do believe so. You are strong. Good. My name Zikomo-hears-the-Father."

He hops down one rock closer to Sindran - still some 10" off the ground, and leans forward in a conspiratory manner. But he doesn't get to say what he had on his mind because the sentries return, quacking loudly...

Intelligence: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 = 19

Sindran is quite taken with the Zikomo-hears-the-father and leans in to hear more when Kumana Slays Nine Men interrupts.

Sindran sneers and stretches out a hand to the monstrous goblin's greatsword. He flicks his palm up and then flicks his fingers towards himself, willing the sword to come into his grasp.

Cast: Pilfering Hand (Abrupt Maneuver)

CMB: 1d20 + 6 + 5 ⇒ (15) + 6 + 5 = 26

More goblins have appeared - they all try to peak from their hiding places, waiting for Kumanda to become Slay-Ten-Men. What they did not expect, though, is to see Kumanda's sword leap gently into the invader's hands! a collective gasp passes through the semi-hidden goblin community.

Kumanda feels his honor and leadership slipping through his fingers together with his greatsword. He positively fumes with anger, and seems to grow a foot, when Zikomo calls out briskly from his high vantage point, causing echoes through the cavern mouth.

"Kumanda!"

The goblin shaman has a certain air for drama - but the goblins are taken by it. He quacks inciting words to his tribe.

Kumanda responds:

the call soon goes up through the entire tribe. They do love a good bloodshed.
Zikomo sits on his perch, smiling a knowing smile.

fool.

...Aerent, want to take over for me? I'm squishy. On the other hand, you probably don't know what's going on unless Caladwhen translates. On the first hand, I think Sindran wants to show off. Are the caves we're in made of stone perchance?

Sindran throws Kumanda's greatsword to the floor in front of the goblin.

P.S. This picture might be relevant to the situation. I can only hope it turns out so well.

this is all still some 30ft outside the horn's cavernous entrance.

Talon tries to follow the back and forth, but all he gets is the one goblin seems to disagree with the others.

Not that Talon knows what's going on, but I would be a fantastic person to have as your 'champion'. Talon is quickly becoming a combat god

Sense Motive (Take 10): 10 + 12 = 22

If Oret gets a good sense of the direction of the conversation, he'll do what he can to look menacing.

Intimidate (Take 10): 10 + 7 = 17

Ahh, we're still outside. Forgot that they interrupted me entering. Well, Talon would be a great choice. We'll just see what Kumanda does.

Aerent is content to watch what happens from the back of the group. Every so often, he activates his circlet to have wisps of smoke rise up around his head, or small flames flash from his eyes.

Caladwhen will translate quietly and safely behind the others.

Intently paying attention to the conversation, Cala quickly and dispassionately translates each parlay, and adds "The hunchbacked Goblin appears to be on our side, but the hulking one who goes by the name Kumanda seems intent on challenging Sindran's authority." Glancing over at Aerent, Talon and Oret, Caladwhen frowns as she considers what happens next "Gentlemen, Sindran may call on one of you to duel Kumanda. If he motions for you to fight, obey his summons and be sure to put Kumanda in his place. Goblins respect strength and power above all else; defeating their champion would definitely suit our purpose."

Talon unfurls his wings and cracks his knuckles "Oh it would be my pleasure"

ooh, exciting! Too bad I'm travelling today... Will update in about 8 hours.

In no time at all, some two dozen goblins have gathered behind their Fearless Leader Kumanda-Slays-Nine-Men, who has regained most of his dignity after one of his minions returned his greatsword to him.

On the opposite side of the clearing, Talon is modestly flexing his muscles, and behind him, the ninth stands. None of the drama, none of the bluff; they don't need any. They simply stand there, in support of their comrade, who may soon win them an army of helpful hands in the span of a few blows.

And what an army it is. No two goblins are alike; yet all have somehow taken on traits of different animals. You see one with a sharkish snout, and gills on his neck; another seems quite frail, but otherwise his imp-like wings would never be able to carry him. All are different, and none are goblins. Thank Asmodeus for that - these are much better.

There's one drawback to these mutations, though. It means Kumanda "Slays-Nine-Men" probably has.... And Talon, the first one who will soon find out, is standing at the ready; Rygat in his hands, gently flapping his wings, looking out at the monstrous minotaur-like goblin.

Zikomo shouts to his tribe:

Talon rolls his neck around, pausing as it turns to Sindran "How lethal is this? Want me to bruise him, break his legs, or cut his head off?"

Well, we can beat around the bush until the Treant comes back - but that's probably not desirable for anyone here. Let's salute, and roll initiative. Talon, you're going to have to be very detailed in your next few posts, the story hangs on what Kumanda and you do in the next few minutes or so.

Kumanda Slays-Nine-Soon-Ten-Men in all his glory god it's good to be home and be able to do this again

ini: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 3 = 13

13?! Oh, just my frikkin' luck. They're Superstitious (Ex)

"How lethal is this? Want me to bruise him, break his legs, or cut his head off?"

Zikomo just sits there, and starts to smile an it's-nice-to-be-right kind of smile

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

"At your own discretion," Sindran tells Talon. "He's strong, but I'd rather not worry about rebellion. Do what you want."

"How lethal is this? Want me to bruise him, break his legs, or cut his head off?"

"Tool. End. Fool."

Talon, I'm not sure if you've got any say in this... Rygat seems quite worked up, and wants to do this his way.

Initiative: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18

Well Talon was kind of leaning between beating him up or killing him, but doesn't intend to slaughter him if he might be a good servant. Should I roll will to resist Rygat?

Talon mentally growls Perhaps in a few moments

Talon draws Rygat, listening to the slither of metal and the voice. He points it towards Kumanda, then grins. He brings the sword to his left side, then begins swinging as if he intends to cut Kumanda from there...however then Talon moves forward so quickly that he leaves a multi-hued cascade of self images behind him. Then he's on the other side of his opponent, sword on the right side of his body

Attack: 1d20 + 9 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 9 + 4 = 26
Damage: 1d6 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 4 + 2 = 7

Casting Bladed Dash

Aerent watches the unfolding battle with interest.

How many goblins are around? Rough number is fine, just trying to figure out our tactical situation.

The froglike ball of muscles that's called Kumanda tries to parry the blur of blows coming from the front, only to be skewered by Talon's deft attack.
The Goblin bellows out a terrifying roar, and starts fuming at the mouth.
In one swing, he tries to take off Talon's head with his oversized sword.
atk: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (17) + 11 = 28
dmg: 4d6 + 15 ⇒ (6, 4, 3, 5) + 15 = 33 phoooey, damn near succeeded as well!

any non-goblin in the immediate 30ft area who hears the terrifying roar should make a DC13 will save, or be shaken for 1d4 ⇒ 2 rounds. This means that the Ninth should roll if they want to interact before the effect is over (in other words, everyone but talon may ignore it until they want to do something).

Well s%#!. Time to bring out the big guns

Talon roars as he feels the deep cut, for the first time feeling fear. He considers throwing up a defensive spell, but hears Rygat's fury in his head.

Fine, your way Rygat.

Instead of retreating or going defensive, he lets loose a primal roar and charges his sword with electricity, letting his fear and anger loose, swinging for Kumanda

Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (19) + 9 - 2 = 26
Confirm: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (17) + 9 - 2 = 24
Damage: 1d6 + 6 + 5d6 ⇒ (6) + 6 + (3, 5, 6, 5, 5) = 36
Crit Damage: 1d6 + 6 + 5d6 ⇒ (1) + 6 + (6, 5, 5, 2, 3) = 28

edit: Forgot will save
Will: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8

failed will save doesn't change the outcome. next round the shaken effect still applies though

Talon feels that a disconcerting bloodlust comes over the sword as it tunnels through the frog's fat abdomen, charring the messy wound.
"dis-chaaaarge!"

The raging goblin stumbles, save vs massive damage dc15: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (8) + 12 = 20 but remains standing. A few squeals of concern pass through the goblin horde.

Will Save: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21

Just in case. Out of curiosity, what was it that he did, 'cause to be able to demoralize everyone in a 30' radius and attack in a single round would be pretty cool.

Holy crap, he has like, double my health

Talon sets aside his concern about Rygat and focuses on his deadly opponent, yelling "I am not to be trifled with, surrender weakling!"

I'll paste the stats as written later. Not my edits though - some secrets should remain ;)

the monstrous goblin is oblivious to your threats. Raging, fuming, spitting, banging his fist on his chest as he knows victory is near, he simply shakes off Rygat's attack (that would've instantly killed many, if not most!)

Adding insult to injury, chief Kumanda blows a giant raspberry in Talon's direction - or does he...?
tongue touch attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12
...with a truly disgusting sound (reminding you of losing a good pair of boots in a pool of mud) the tongue extends impossibly far and catches Talon full in the chest, hampering his movement!

Int: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17

This action is a reflection of Talon's utter stubbornness. This isn't ignorance of your warning, DM, it's simply what I believe Talon would do in the situation

Talon blinks, watching the event shift forward. "Guys I...this isn't good" Then he feels the slimy tongue land on his gaping chest wound, pulling him closer into deaths cold embrace. He gasps as the breath is ripped from his lungs, the pain almost too much to bear Ended like this...No. I will not submit Talon feels the electricity in his body and grins, feeling the blood drip out of his mouth as his vision flickers. One more Rygat...just one more and he says something in Strix, then screams it loudly in his defiance as he lets the tongue pull him and and takes one last swing at the creature in front of him, feeling the current run through his body, past his faintly beating heart, and out through his fingertips into Rygat

Empowered Shocking Grasp Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (19) + 9 - 2 = 26
Confirm: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (17) + 9 - 2 = 24
Damage: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6
Spell Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (4, 3, 6, 6, 6) = 25 x 3/2 = 37
Crit Damage: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10
Crit Spell Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (1, 2, 5, 6, 3) = 17 x 3/2 = 25
Attack: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 9 - 2 = 10

Damage=6+37+10+25=78

Thank you dice gods, I shall offer a pallet of mountain dew and Doritos this weekend

"Look. Fool No Eyes"
As Talon aims carefully to decapitate the monstrous Goblin, Rygat simply takes over. Talon can only watch in horror as his sword literally tig-welds both the frog-lin's eyes into its skull, making him crackle with wild sparks as he collapses in an embarrassing spasming heap of burnt hide.

Congratulations Talon, that may have been the most impressive escape from Death's clutches I've yet to see. That said, dealing with a CR7 challenge all on your own is quite an accomplishment; this gives you a significant lead on xp.

Oh my god this is so cool/terrifying! Doing school things right now, but I'm going to come back with a huge post

Zikomo can hardly believe his eyes - he thought his chance had slipped away, but now, suddenly, things are looking up for him!
"Kumanda lies slain?! It... cannot be!"

As the goblins stand up, getting ready to riot (but hey, don't they always) Zikomo proves his theatrical flair by rising up on his rock and casting a cantrip, causing his skin to change colour from white and gray to deep red, matching Sindran's armor.

All goblins cower in fear of this... Father - It must surely be a very powerful being, if the goblins fear it that much. Nevertheless, Zikomo continues his task as a channel, a medium for The Father to speak through.

"urrrzhaankanakanakankanakaaahruuuuuuz hruuuuz hruuuzznkakakakakaka!!"

"WOG!"

In an instant, Zikomo spreads his arms, raising himself to his full 4 feet, and - with the added effect of standing on a high rock - towers impressively over the BaneWog tribe.

Thanks to Zikomo's efforts, the tribe seems to have forgotten about rioting. Being led to greatness seems a much easier way of having fun!