GM Spicer's Cradle of Night

Game Master Neil Spicer

"Can you tell us about this Reborn? And Lyrudada? How big is your city?

"The Reborn are a dark folk cult. They attract followers from every caste of our people, believing that when we die, fragments of our memories pass on to our children as our souls move on to the afterlife. According to their doctrine, they claim most of our kind cannot recall these ancestral memories except in dreams or on a purely instinctual level...like a reflex in times of stress. But the Reborn claim otherwise for themselves. They say they have memories which extend all the way back to the time when our people left the Land Above to take shelter underground."

"For a long time, the Reborn were nothing more than a secret society in Lyrudrada. Many laughed at them for their beliefs, scoffing at the notion that any so-called 'ancestral memories' were anything more than delusions of grandeur and coincidental misinterpretations of everyday normal happenings. I had a cousin once, who dated one of them. They tried relentlessly to pull her into their circle, but thankfully, she broke things off before they could fully dupe her into joining them."

"More recently, something has changed in the tone and tenor of their zealots, though. They're much bolder. More passionate. More convincing. And they wield actual power, having converted many dark callers to their ranks." She senses the questioning look on Daehalya's face. "Dark callers are those who serve our communities as priests and seers, overseeing important rites and summoning otherworldly creatures from the Plane of Shadow to defend us. Not all of them joined the Reborn, but those who have are certainly helping them rise in power and influence. Their followers have earned the allegiance of several powerful creatures both native to the city and from other areas of the Darklands. And, before I left to come here and thwart the cult's plans to reclaim this Cradle of Night, the Reborn made a major move to reclaim an ancient ruin and temple on an island at the heart of our city. It's been sealed for hundreds of years, but now they treat it like a fortress and a base from which to intimidate and convince others to join their cause."

"I'm sorry. I'm rambling. You had other questions? Yes. Lyrudrada! It's been our home for a long time now...as long as the collective memory of our people can recall before our time in the Land Above. Thousands of us live there. It lies in the Darklands beneath the southern Mindspin Mountains. Centuries ago, it went to war with the horselords of Nidal and was subsequently sacked, though it has since risen again to prominence. It is not on the major trade routes of the Darklands, but traders of many races transact business there, particularly in the neighborhood known as Trader’s Rift. And, while the caste-clans of Lyrudrada have held an uneasy equilibrium of power for centuries, the rise of the Reborn has thrown that balance into near anarchy, threatening our economic ties."

"...And this Cradle of Night. Do you know anything more about it?....Is it safe to use? To carry?"

"There were once many Cradles of Night. These powerful artifacts were used by the caligni, but over the centuries all of them have been destroyed or lost. A Cradle of Night resembles a fist-sized black orb cloaked in shadow. Supposedly, they granted those who carried them power from the Shadow Plane, including increased strength, health, and healing capabilities. Although the bearer of a Cradle of Night isn’t immortal, the artifact imparts a supernaturally long life span. I've heard it can exert a malign influence over those who wield it, and over their long life, it eventually leads them to become callous and cruel to those around them."

"Do you know the location of the tomb and how to reach it?"

"Yes. Gioret was able to locate it. He provided a map that should lead us there."

"And what else can you tell us of the Reborn cultists? Do they have any favorite weapons or magic they are likely to use against us? And will you be going with us?"

"I will most definitely accompany you, as I would see this mission through on behalf of my people. But, rather than do it alone, I asked Gioret for allies here in the Land Above who could aid me. That's where you come in..."

"As for the Reborn, they're already a potent military force, both in martial might and the powers that their dark callers can command. Enough so, that our own Sentinels of the Shroud who normally defend Lyrudrada from outside attacks have proven reluctant to move directly against them. Instead, the Sentinels' leader, Patron Protector Ulloo Bao, has withdrawn to the citadel of Highstone until the political upheaval is resolved. I suspect if the Reborn are successful, he will pledge his forces to them, as well. And, if we're successful by preventing this Cradle of Night from falling into their hands, it's my hope...and the hope of my allies in Lyrudrada...that we can convince him to oppose the Reborn and return the city to how it was before their rise."

Didn't want to jump the gun by making checks, but just to see what I might know about Haramil and/or the Cradle of Night (I'll make a few checks): Knowledge (history) 1d20+14

Knowledge (history) 1d20+14
Knowledge (history) 1d20+14

Rolls are the same for local and planes.

I'm confused. That's 3 separate Knowledge (history) checks. Were the last two supposed to be for Knowledge (local) and Knowledge (planes)? Or were you trying to gather information on 3 different historical questions? Be specific in what you're asking and I'll respond accordingly.

Sorry, I was just trying to give you options, in case you wanted a (planes or local) check instead of (history) for something. The first check is for what Daehalya knows about Haramil; the second is for what I know about the Cradle of Night.

Their followers have earned the allegiance of several powerful creatures both native to the city and from other areas of the Darklands.

What creatures? As Suetonius said, forewarned is forearmed

Also, as we are likely to face both shadow magic and creatures summoned from the Shadow Plane, we should make sure we can defend ourselves against their attacks and exploit their weaknesses.

From our various backstories, we should have enough collective knowledge to know the basics about both shadow magic and shadow creatures.

Callous and cruel? I wonder if somehow this artifact is exerting control over all of Nidal? It might explain so much... Daehalya thinks, mind racing. Mathion didn't act like ... that ... when we were in Shadow Absalom, or on our way home, I don't think. It was only here where he became so cruel.

She's about to ask about the creatures when Master Garmont does so before she gets the chance.

She quickly moves on to her next query instead: "You mentioned your castes? Can you tell us more about them."

Satisfied, at least on a basic level, Ailis nods. "Apologies for the crudeness and the suspicion, Miss. It's just I don't know you, and you crawled up from a place where historically only enemies come. I'll go with you, and you don't have to worry about me. I'm with ye."

"So, defeat a cult, retrieve the ancient evil shadow artifact, and then sit and twiddle our thumbs while yer buddies take back yer city? Then ye pay us? Sounds good to me."

The first check is for what Daehalya knows about Haramil; the second is for what I know about the Cradle of Night.

Daehalya:

"You mentioned your castes? Can you tell us more about them."

"Certainly. Though we're all collectively caligni...or dark folk...there are sub-species or different ethnicities among us. Dark creepers and dark dancers are smaller in stature with different interests based on their cultural callings. Creepers comprise the majority of our laborer caste, while dancers help preserve our heritage through their stories and music. Dark slayers are also shorter, but have more of an outsider mentality, often challenging our cultural norms and pushing the boundaries of our magical and alchemical traditions. More than most of us, they prove willing to consult with neighboring civilizations, often learning...or stealing...any lore they can manage from them."

"Higher within our society are the taller dark stalkers. Many of them lead our outlying communities, forming a loose coalition that holds Lyrudrada together, particularly against outside threats. Ulloo Bao, for instance, is a dark stalker who leads our Sentinels in the Highstone citadel. So, many of them serve or lead our militias. Nearly as important are the dark callers, the laypriests I mentioned before. And then, associated with them both are our dark champions...warriors given up by their families to be trained from birth in an ancient martial tradition maintained in Highstone. They often serve as bodyguards and enforcers for influential dark callers."

Aiyana pauses and smiles around the room. "By your reactions, I can tell this is a lot to digest. The caligni are a complicated civilization unlike any other in the Darklands. We're survivors, pure and simple, but a people like any other, unified by the dark. I, myself, am more of a pureblood caligni without a specific caste. They say my kind bear more of a likeness to our ancient selves, throwbacks to a time before our retreat into the dark. We can be born among any of the other castes, but often stand apart from them. Like the dark stalkers who lead some of our outlying communities and inner districts, I've ascended to a position of leadership, as I hold a seat on the Bleakshore council...an inherited position from my father before me. It's allowed me to influence those who would resist the Reborn, and they're the ones who sent me here on this mission."

What creatures? As Suetonius said, forewarned is forearmed...

"A variety of things," Aiyana replies, "Some too...odd...to properly describe. After all, creatures summoned from the shadow plane are often half-formed or nebulous and ever-shifting. Some can freeze or drain the strength from the living. Others are shadow-infused versions of normal beasts here in our world. There's even a rumor that a shadow dragon has been seen near Lyrudrada and many worry the Reborn may add its power to their own...or bring its wrath down upon us if they secure the Cradle of Night and the artifact draws its interest."

"More common allies of the Reborn are the owb...visitors from the Shadow Plane, often summoned by our dark callers to assist with the various rites and ceremonies of our people. They never speak audible words, but can project their voices into your mind. Our people have worshiped them for many years, and they aid us in many of our conflicts with other civilizations...as well as the in-fighting between different caste-clans or communities. The dark callers serving the Reborn have definitely begun calling upon these patrons more frequently, and its a definite source of power for them."

"Outside of that, there are occasional allies and partners among the Reborn drawn from other creatures in the Darklands. Drow, driders, duergar, and so on. Some simply trade with them, the same as they do with the rest of Lyrudrada, but we worry that there may be more sinister support as they continue to consolidate control of the city in preparation for...well, whatever they're preparing for once they have the Cradle of Night. Whatever it is, the Bleakshore Council is convinced it's not good for our people."

"So, defeat a cult, retrieve the ancient evil shadow artifact, and then sit and twiddle our thumbs while yer buddies take back yer city? Then ye pay us? Sounds good to me."

"Actually," Aiyana answers as she reaches behind one of the sacks of grain and retrieves a small haversack, "I'm empowered to pay you part of your reward now...as a retainer for your services. And, provided we're successful and the Cradle of Night is kept from the Reborn, I'm certain the Bleakshore Council will compensate you further..."

Opening the haversack, Aiyana begins to draw forth a variety of items.

The treasure consists of 2,400 gp in various gemstones, a masterwork mithral dagger, three potions of cure moderate wounds, three potions of lesser restoration, a scroll of shadow conjuration, and an ounce of stone salve, all carried in a handy haversack, which Aiyana informs you is also part of the payment.

"I hope you find these items satisfactory...and useful...?"

Suetonius listens intently to Aiyanna's words, his curiosity obviously piqued.

"People up here on the surface often tend to think of those who live below as static / uniform societies, without much variation, but what you describe is fascinating. Once this is over, I wouldn't mind the opportunity to learn more about the history of your people."

When she produces the items, Suetonius nods.

"I am sure that they will be useful..."

"Indeed, they will help us recover from many maladies should the upcoming trials prove too much to handle," Lydia says as she surveys the healing supplies.

Ailis agrees with the big staff-wielding human. "I agree. Well, maybe... we can talk about it later. Like t' negotiate some visitin' hours." She looks up at Suetonius. Pursing her lips, she begins to tap a booted foot. "We got work to start doin', though. How much of a hurry are we in? We got time to get some prep in?"

She turns from the dark folk to the horselord. "Mr. Gioret. Where's the nearest spell scribe? I know you Kellids don't much like arcanists, but if we have time we need someone who can make scrolls."

She turns to go outside, as if to start in the direction of the wizard before Gioret even tells her whether or not there is one, but turns back like she's just remembering something. "Oh, yeah," she says, turning to each of her compatriots. "Looks like things might get dicey. Yeah? We got politics and shadow cultists and ancient artifacts. We should talk about our capabilities. Make a strategy for a fight before we get into the fight. Fightin' with Lesska at my back is bound to be a lot different than fightin' with Lesska and five strangers."

Daehalya looks impressed as Aiyana displays the payment.

"That's not necessary," she protests. "I know the spell on the scroll. It's powerful, one of the most powerful ones I know!"

She listens as Ailis wisely suggests time to prepare.

"Oh, I can scribe scrolls," she assures the dwarf. "I've been studying magic for more than a century, and I'm perhaps better at it than ... other things. I've mostly used my magic lately to help Desnans escape pursuit and with ways to slow our pursuers, but I have some other shadow spells that can be more dangerous."

A lot of my magic is I guess battlefield control. I have haste (though I think someone else had that) and slow, plus color spray, grease, glitterdust, resilient sphere... I don't have a lot of direct damage-dealing spells.

While the spellcasters discuss the potions and scroll, Bastian picks up the mithral dagger, spins it lightly to test the balance and then feels the sharp edge with his tumb. He nods with appreciation as he sets it down again.

A fine weapon. I’ll carry it if noone else wants it, but I much prefer to rely on Pride’s Fall here if we run into trouble. he says, hefting his heavy flail with both hands.

She bashes heads and breaks bones just fine, but with my training, I can use her chain to bring an enemy down or snatch a weapon away. I find that such maneuvers are often better at gaining the advantage than pure blunt trauma, but to be on the safe side, I often mix in a bit of both.

Lesska nods as the tale is spun and the deeds to be done described. When it is time to get tactical she waits her turn.

"I fight to keep folk alive, defending them the better if they stand near or even beside me. If you can bring them down Bastian, I can stick them at a little distance. In time I hope you'll find my presence can inspire great battle deeds." Lesska says with little trace of arrogance.

"My specialty in battle s' tactical awareness. You listen to me, you stand where I tell you to stand, and we all do better. Other than that, I can hold my own in a fight. I'm quiet, I'm quick, I can break a trap and get into places that are closed."

She crosses her arms, looking up at all of her compatriots. "I'm a Pathfinder, too. I can cast a few spells, and I have a few talents, that make it easier to find stuff out."

"We got work to start doin', though. How much of a hurry are we in? We got time to get some prep in?" ...She turns from the dark folk to the horselord. "Mr. Gioret. Where's the nearest spell scribe? I know you Kellids don't much like arcanists, but if we have time we need someone who can make scrolls."

"Sadly, there'll be no time for that." Gioret replies, "I selected the six of you to accompany Aiyana because I know how well prepared you are...both in terms of experience and training. You leave tonight. As soon as the festival is done and everyone has retired for the evening, I'll have seven horses saddled and ready for you outside the stables. It's best that no one sees you leave. Once you're clear of the outer fence, Aiyana will lead the way."

"I'll hold onto the map to Haramil's tomb," Aiyana adds, "The stars will help us gain our bearings. And even if the clouds obscure their light, I can see well enough in the dark to guide us there." The caligni looks sidelong at Gioret. "It's entirely possible we may encounter agents of the Umbral Court along the way, but I'd prefer to avoid them. If we can't, then I expect to defend ourselves rather than submit to them for questioning and torture. This mission is too important for my people to be slowed by dream hunters."

Gioret grimly nods in acceptance of Aiyana's declaration. Once he's satisfied everyone understands the journey ahead, he converses quietly with Aiyana while the rest of you get better acquainted. He finishes after just a few moments, and then announces he'll take his leave and return to the festival while you remain safely hidden in the cellar's secret room.

"If anyone asks, I'll say you left the ranch separately, heading in different directions. But I'll need to continue my duties as host for the remainder of the evening." On his way to the secret door, he passes close to Lesska and asks her to accompany him for a moment into the outer cellar, closing the portal behind them.

Lesska:

Daehalya nods as they learn the plan, her blood starting to race at the obvious urgency in Gioret and Aiyana.

This is what it's like to be human ... or even Forlorn, I suppose. Everything must be done immediately. But ... it's nice. To not have the luxury to sit and wait a year to make up your mind, mulling the options. Yes, it led me to this point, but had I sat and waited, how many more people would have died in those odious dream hunts?

Shaking her head to clear it, she murmurs.

"I see well in the darkness as long as there is a little light, but I do have a spell that could let others see in total darkness should anyone want."

She glances at Master Garmont and then the other humans.

I have darkvision prepared, and could cast it twice using my arcane bond. (Also, Ailis mentioned communal resist energy in the discussion thread; I have that prepared currently. If I use my metamagic rod, I can give it to everyone for about half an hour, when/if we need it.)

"My specialty in battle s' tactical awareness. You listen to me, you stand where I tell you to stand, and we all do better. Other than that, I can hold my own in a fight. I'm quiet, I'm quick, I can break a trap and get into places that are closed..."

"I can see now why Gioret asked the Pathfinders for help. I must admit, I'm unfamiliar with your...Society? I'm not sure we have anything like that in the Darklands. But, clearly, your skills should come in handy as we explore Haramil's tomb..."

Aiyana gestures towards Bastian. "So, you and the other girl...Lesska...sound like our most experienced and capable warriors. Like Ailis, I can fight a bit, too, if need be...provide a bit of magic in certain situations...and advise on anything involving the Cradle itself." The caligni looks to Suetonius and Lydia. "I understand Daehalya here is much more apt with spells than any of us, but what of you two? What skills do you bring to our expedition?"

Lydia's fingers wrap around the holy symbol around her neck. "I am an inquisitor of the Song of the Spheres. The goddess has empowered me to judge the enemies of freedom and help those who cannot help themselves. They call me 'the Liberator,' for that is my specialty."

The half-elf allows herself a slight smile. "I'm a competent fighter, and my magic can hinder our foes and bolster our group. I can root out hidden dangers and discern when lies are told to me. And should the need arise, I can be fairly stealthy as well."

Suetonius nods gravely.

"I can help hold the line in melee, if necessary, although not to the extent of a dedicated barbarian; but thanks to the grace of Desna's Shadow, I can provide support in the form of some healing, some restoratives, and various blessings in combat."

He then smiles wryly.

"I also have the ability to create a light, which will shine brightly in places where all other lights would go out. Beyond that, I have some small skill at noticing things - whether it be hidden objects, or hidden emotions."

Lesska returns from the doorway just as Suetonius is mentioning a "dedicated barbarian" and she smiles a half-smile to herself. When the cleric is finished Lesska addresses Aiyana once more.

"Lady Aiyana, I find I am wholly unfamiliar with the Darklands. Are the Reborn able to travel to the resting place of the Cradle we seek from their redoubt in Lyrudrada or must they surface? And can we reach it via your dusky paths?"

When Lesska returns from her seance with Gioret, Ailis shoots her a quizzical look, one eyebrow raised, that says, 'You okay?'

With introductions and the mission briefing out of the way, Bastian collects his gear and meticulously checks that everything is in place. He distributes his magic potions, some in his adventurer's sash and the rest in his handy haversack. He then makes sure his waterskin is full and that he has enough rations to last a couple of days.

He collects the stone salve and the mithril dagger from Aiyana's trove, slipping the salve into his haversack and placing the dagger in his wrist sheath. Anyone else feel like claiming the dagger?

Once he is satisfied, he finds a quiet place to hunker down and rest until it is time to depart.

Soldier's first rule: sleep when you can he thinks to himself as he settles in, pack beneath his head.

Bastian is all set to move on

"I am an inquisitor of the Song of the Spheres. The goddess has empowered me to judge the enemies of freedom and help those who cannot help themselves. They call me 'the Liberator,' for that is my specialty....I'm a competent fighter, and my magic can hinder our foes and bolster our group. I can root out hidden dangers and discern when lies are told to me. And should the need arise, I can be fairly stealthy as well."

"Happy I am to meet you then, 'Liberator'..." Aiyana inclines her head with a slight smile, "I too am a follower of Desna. Thus, my interest in aiding Gioret these last few years. At first, it was my love of travel that drew me here. But then, when I reached the surface and beheld the stars in the nighttime sky, I knew I'd found my purpose...and, my muse, I suppose. My only wish is that I could convince the rest of my people to abandon their false gods and turn to her."

"I can help hold the line in melee, if necessary, although not to the extent of a dedicated barbarian; but thanks to the grace of Desna's Shadow, I can provide support in the form of some healing, some restoratives, and various blessings in combat....I also have the ability to create a light, which will shine brightly in places where all other lights would go out. Beyond that, I have some small skill at noticing things - whether it be hidden objects, or hidden emotions."

"Well then...perhaps we'll survive this mission after all. A healer is exactly what we need. But, as for your light...I'd recommend against using it unless you want to totally blind me. While I can tolerate the beauty of Desna's stars, anything brighter than that is quite painful to my eyes."

"Lady Aiyana, I find I am wholly unfamiliar with the Darklands. Are the Reborn able to travel to the resting place of the Cradle we seek from their redoubt in Lyrudrada or must they surface? And can we reach it via your dusky paths?"

"No. Access to Haramil's tomb is entirely overland here in Nidal. There are no paths from the Darklands there. The Reborn would have to journey here, the same as me. Although...they could speed their way by relying on various forms of shadow magic. For our sake, let us hope they lack the means to conjure such transportation..."

Lesska shakes her head in return to Ailis as if to say "not now".

The Kellid looks a little crestfallen as Aiyana describes overland travel.

"I see. And might we take some precautions to keep our true mission secret - a ruse perhaps to seem something other than we are?" Lesska looks at the assembled group.

"Though even I would be hard-pressed to describe just what we really are in the first place. Bad news for Pangolais for one."

Daehalya nods.

"It makes sense to not tell anyone what we're truly about ... though I'm not sure what ruse might work. As you say, we look ... unusual. I could cover us with an illusion if we saw someone approaching," the elven wizard suggests.

"I'm certainly open to whatever ideas you may have..."

There is another thing to consider. Lady Daehalya and I have...history...with the Umbral Court agent leading the dream hunt posse. If we encounter him and his men, they are sure to recognized us unless we are disguised by magic. And even illusions are risky, given his capabilities.

Lesska bites her lip, sharing another look with Ailis.

"I have my own reasons for wanting to stay out of view. Family complications - Kellid clan formalities that I wish not to endure, or bring any of you within."

The Kellid smiles briefly.

"At least, while we are within the Atteran Ranches. After that, well, your complications cleatly trump mine."

"Well, then...we'll just have to avoid being seen or running across any of these people," Aiyana says. "Now, I think I'll take a cue from Bastian over there and catch a nap before we leave. I'm sure Gioret will let us know when it's time."

Suetonius nods gravely.

"That sounds reasonable, Aiyana; we want to make sure that we are as well rested, and prepared, as we possibly can, before we embark on so dangerous a task."

As the party settles down for the evening, the hidden room off the cellar proves surprisingly comfortable. All the sacks of grain become makeshift cushions as each of you catches a few winks, studies a book of spells, or cares after a favorite weapon in the event it's needed down the road. Even as you wait, the sounds from the Festival of the Survivors continues, faint and nondescript, like a lullaby to the senses.

Eventually, some of you hear the outer door to the cellar open. Footsteps approach the secret door and Bastian stirs as his military training serves as a sixth sense to possible danger. His weapon is in his hand by the time Gioret appears. Your host holds a small lantern, light barely gleaming from around the edges of its closed hood.

"Quickly now!" he calls to those stirring inside, "Gather your things and follow me..."

A few minutes later and everyone has climbed out of the cellar, trailing after the horselord as he circles the stables. Seven of his best mounts stand saddled and ready. Two more lesser steeds serve as pack animals, already laden with supplies for your trip.

"The horses see well enough in darkness," Gioret explains as he helps Daehalya find the stirrup so she can mount, "They've been trained well and are normally more active at night than during the day. Sadly, we've had to send many of them south to Pangolais for service to the Umbral Court, but these I give to you to speed you on your journey."

"There are a few days rations for each of you on the others, as well as a wineskin. Nothing extravagant, mind you. It was left over from the feast and we didn't want it to go to waste." As he talks, there's a nervous energy to him, as if he's concerned about seeing you off as quickly as he can, but also worried he'll forget to do a proper job of preparing you. "A few of my people asked about you, but I told them you'd already taken to the road...all with places to be other than here."

Finally, with everyone seated on their horse, he stands below you, his face barely visible in the meager starlight. "We had a dream hunter pass through while you were in the cellar. Nothing to be too worried about, I think. She looked over the crowd, but didn't bother to question anyone while she sampled some of our food. All are welcome at the feast, so we couldn't turn her away. And, it would've only drawn suspicion if we had. I haven't seen her here on the plains before, but I've heard her name. Virihane of Pangolais. She's one of Aiyana's kind...a caligni...though, not of the Darklands. She was born in Nidal to those who migrated here many years ago to live within the shadows of the Kuthites. They say she's a member of the Umbral Court...not just an agent. But why one would be traveling alone is beyond me. So, be vigilant. There may be others about..."

He points to the east of Almere, towards the hill country at the base of the Mindspin Mountains. "According to the map, Haramil's tomb lies that way. We'll do what we can to steer any dream hunters away from your path. May Desna light your way, and Gozreh keep you..."

Once Gioret has wished you well, Aiyana takes the lead, nudging her horse into motion. It seems clear that she's no stranger to riding on horseback, and the steeds Gioret provided are quiet as silk as they move across the plains. Soon, Gioret's lantern is swallowed by the darkness behind you and only the trail lies ahead.

It takes three days to make the journey to Haramil's tomb. With Lesska's help and her native knowledge of the terrain, the party manages to keep a low profile. Aiyana has everyone sleep during the day so the majority of your travel can take place at night. The first day, you put enough distance between you and the ranch that there are no other settlements or travelers in sight. And, once you enter the hill country, the varying elevations help to further hide your passage.

On the second night, Daehalya's sensitive ears detect movement further downhill from your position in the highlands. But as the team waits in the dark, nothing draws any closer, and you're unable to determine if it was a natural predator or someone following after you. Daylight brought no further revelations, even as Bastian and Lydia scouted the terrain while Aiyana slept to shield her eyes from the sun.

On the third day, you've made it to a much cooler elevation, leaving behind some of the humidity and heat of the autumn plains. The view, though not nearly as high as the mountain passes towering high above you, still give you an immense appreciation for the beauty of the Atteran Ranches of northern Nidal. It seems almost impossible to believe the heavy yoke that Pangolais wields over the region. When dusk arrives, you set out once again, consulting Aiyana's map and identifying enough landmarks to assure yourselves you're on the right track.

Finally, with fireflies dotting the way ahead, the last vestiges of the setting sun illuminate your path. Hills looming to either side of an overgrown trail cast shadows across the approach to Haramil’s tomb. Next to an opening in the natural stone of the canyon wall, a few trees have taken root in the rocky soil. Beside them, massive stone doors have been set into the hillside. Though they presumably sealed the entrance at one time, it now stands open. An unsettling penumbra of gloomy illumination exudes from within, cloaking the area immediately surrounding the entrance with shifting shadows.

Ailis, Daehalya, & Lydia:
You may make a DC 20 Knowledge (planes) check. If successful...

"This must be it..." Aiyana announces, her voice low enough for everyone to hear, but intentionally quiet lest she alert anyone...or anything...that might lie ahead. "Well, Pathfinder? What say you? How should we proceed? I expected the doors to the tomb to be closed tightly, and hidden from view. But it's unsettling that they hang open. And what are those...shadows? You see them? Swirling there?"

Suetonius sighs sadly.

"It would appear that we are not the first ones here. That is... unfortunate..."

As they're sent on their way, Ailis can only be struck by Gioret's extremely apparent concern and generosity. He was a good man, she could tell.

Ailis is well-suited to overland travel, and dines well on her own trail rations of dried sausages and cheeses rather than draw from the communal supply. She carries a tent on her back (along with frankly a lot of other supplies) and sleeps in shelter. If anyone is missing a tent, she offers to share one additional space with them.

K. Planes: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8

Unfamiliar with the ways of the Great Beyond and matters of cosmology, Ailis is a material girl living in a material world. She usually acts with caution, but the fact that they are not the first ones here does not bode well. She pulls her bow from her back and quickly strings it, then pulls an arrow and nocks it. "I say we go in now, quickly and quietly as we can."

"I suggest I and Lydia take point, a lead of forty or fifty feet. If we're quiet enough we can take a good look and see if we need greater force for any situation."

Point guard rolls:

Stealth: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (4) + 17 = 21
Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (5) + 14 = 19

Also, keep in mind that via stonecunning Ailis receives an automatic chance with a +16 bonus to notice unusual stonework like traps or secret doors when she passes within 10 feet.

Lesska frowns, leaning forward against the horn of her saddle, peering at the open portal.
Still looking forward she nods at Ailis' suggestion.

"Sounds good." is all she says.

Hopping down she stows her longspear and also strings her longbow.

Ready.

Before entry, Bastian examines the ground in front of the entrance, trying to determine the nature and number of anyone who have entered the tomb.

Survival: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14 assists welcome

When the time comes to enter, he takes position behind the lead scouts. Unless anyone else provide alternate means of darkvision or illumination, he will uncover his ioun torch and send it in orbit around his helmet.

Knowledge (planes): 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15

Lydia remains alert as they ride to the tomb, though fortunately no dangers present themselves. She frowns when she sees the doors hanging open, though she optimistically offers, "At least if our rivals are already here, it saves us the trouble of worrying about them coming up behind us later."

She, too, nods at Ailis' suggestion. Before dismounting, she clutches her holy symbol and prays to Desna to bolster her morale.

Cast heroism on self. It will last for 80 mins.

The inquisitor kneels beside Bastian, studying the ground with a practiced eye.

Survival, Track, Heroism: 1d20 + 14 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 14 + 4 + 2 = 28

When the time comes to scout, she draws her curve blade and moves beside Ailis.

Point guard rolls:

Stealth, Heroism: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 12 + 2 = 31
Perception, Heroism: 1d20 + 21 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 21 + 2 = 40

While on the road
On the second day, Daehalya interrupts the general conversation.

"I've been thinking a lot about what you told us about the Cradle of Night," she says, looking at Aiyana before letting her gaze travel to the others as she speaks. "If I didn't mistranslate the references, I think there were definitely more than one Cradle of Night, and more importantly its power almost always spread among its bearer’s allies, whether or not they wanted it to. I think I even remember a reference to Haramil, that the Cradel influenced him toward evil, and drove him to abandon Gozreh's teachings. I think that might also explain your castes, Aiyana. Each one may have been because of a different Cradle of Night..."

Sorry, realized I missed revealing that spoiler earlier. And wanted to make sure I got it out there. If others want to go back and read it, Daehalya would have shared all its contents during the conversation.

At the mouth of the tomb
"Wait," Daehalya calls out as her new companions get ready to move in. "That gloom surrounding the tomb's entrance is supernatural. It's likely an extension of energies drawn from the Plane of Shadow! Give me a moment."

She casts a quick cantrip detect magic and concentrates to see if she can discern more about the shadowstuff.

Knowledge (planes): 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (11) + 14 = 25
Spellcraft (+2 to identify magic items): 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (2) + 17 = 19

Regardless of what she finds, she casts mage armor before entering the tomb.

"I say we go in now, quickly and quietly as we can....I suggest I and Lydia take point, a lead of forty or fifty feet. If we're quiet enough we can take a good look and see if we need greater force for any situation."

"Sounds good."

"At least if our rivals are already here, it saves us the trouble of worrying about them coming up behind us later."

"Wait....That gloom surrounding the tomb's entrance is supernatural. It's likely an extension of energies drawn from the Plane of Shadow! Give me a moment..."

As Daehalya begins casting her spell, Bastian and Lydia move forward a bit to examine the path leading to the shadowy tomb. Meanwhile, Aiyana stands fast next to Ailis, Lesska, and Suetonius, watching as the others investigate.

GM rolls:
1d20 + 12 ⇒ (17) + 12 = 29
1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

Lydia & Bastian:

Daehalya:

Suddenly, two semi-solid wisps of shadow coalesce in mid-air along the path about 20 feet before the tomb's entrance. They reach out with impossibly long, thin, clawed appendages striking at Bastian and Lydia.

Surprise Round:
Surprise attack #1 vs. Bastian's touch AC: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7

"Look out!" Lydia warns Bastian, pushing the big soldier out of the way. Her action helps him avoid the unusual attack, but only through greater risk to herself.

Surprise attack #2 vs. Lydia's touch AC: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12
Strength damage: 1d6 ⇒ 4

One of the dark claws rake across her throat, temporarily stealing her breath away by the icy cold that follows. A wave of weakness sweeps through her as she struggles to draw in enough air to stay upright.

Initiative checks:
Shadow Creatures: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 = 17
Aiyana: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 2 = 11
Ailis: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21
Bastian: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7
Daehalya: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11
Lesska: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16
Lydia: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11
Suetonius: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22

OOC: Suetonius & Ailis may act first...then, the enemy...then Lesska, Lydia, Daehalya, Aiyana, and Bastian. Without relying on a map, Lydia and Bastian are "in melee" with two shadowy creatures that have elongated arms. Collectively, the four of them are still about 20 feet away from the doors to the tomb. Meanwhile, Daehalya is about 10 feet further away from the combatants where she cast her spell, and the rest of the party is about 10 feet further back from her.

Daehalya reels at the voices in her head, gaping at the sudden appearance of the wisps of shadow.

This wasn't the kind, gentle shadow she'd grown up with for the first century-plus of her life. This was the cruel shadow she'd truly learned about just in the last year!

Ailis stiffens as the strange shadow creatures appears, reflexively taking a step back away from them. Years of combat experience allow her to smoothly pull back the string on her bow and loose an arrow, the arrow crackling with arcane power as it flies towards the creature that raked Lydia's throat.

Swift action: Arcane Strike, Standard action: shoot bow

Shortbow v. Shadow (Into Melee): 1d20 + 11 - 4 ⇒ (19) + 11 - 4 = 26 Damage (Arcane Strike): 1d6 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 3 + 2 = 11

Then, assessing the battlefield, she elects to share some of her accumulated experience, amplifying the effect of the war-story with some of her own power. She opens her mouth and calls out a clear war chant, imbuing her allies with increased tactical awareness. "In the Fall of 3877, the Sky Citadel of Janderhoff came under assault from a combined force of ogres and goblins. Laying waste to the small trade settlements on the Citadel's outskirts, the goblins were able to quickly advance to the Citadel's gates... Little did they know, the clever dwarves had burrowed many tunnels through the area. Strike forces of dwarven commandos surfaced in flanking positions, and when the gates swung open to reveal a battalion of defenders, the goblins were caught in a vice. When they tried to run, they were cut down one by one by the stalwart warriors."

Move action: Activate war chant. Share Combat Reflexes and Outflank with the whole team, expending 2 rounds of performance.

Everyone's flanking bonuses increase to +4 and everyone gets extra AoOs equal to their Dexterity modifier. If anyone scores a critical hit, allies flanking with them get to take an AoO.

Ahh...what are these things and where did they come from? Bastian exclaims as he raises Pride’s Fall and prepares to strike back.

Use those nice knowledge skills, everyone.

GM, based on your description, I’m guessing these guys are incorporeal. Do they have reach or are the elongated limbs just fluff? Do they have concealment due to lighting?

Knowledge(Religion) - ?Shadows: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (17) + 10 = 27.

Suetonius frowns, as he tries to determine what, precisely, these creatures are.