Tales of the Demon Lord (Inactive)

Game Master Brainiac

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Bonus Pain: 1d6 ⇒ 3
Banes: 3d6 ⇒ (6, 4, 6) = 16
Strength vs Singularity: 1d20 + 8 - 6 ⇒ (9) + 8 - 6 = 11
Agility vs Fireball: 1d20 + 4 - 1d6 ⇒ (7) + 4 - (6) = 5
Agility vs Outburst: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24
Bonus Pain: 1d6 ⇒ 4

Shen wisely falls back to safety while Selgaer risks one more attack against the demon, missing before leaping away and out of the room. The faun ducks as Uruuna's arrows and Joy's witch fire whiz past to pierce and scorch the demon.

Realizing Imedren is about to go nova, Dramm casts a powerful spell of protection to render him temporarily invulnerable. Then Imedren unleashes chaos within the hall, bolstered by his future self's sorcery. A swirling maelstrom of color appears over the demon, disintegrating a huge swath of its body. The void larvae are sucked into the singularity's center, completely annihilated!

Agony of the Rotten Molar manages to resist being drawn into the spell, surging forward to try to slaughter Imedren. Its teeth bite and tear at the sorcerer's impervious flesh, as Dramm's spell holds. Imedren detonates a fireball at point-blank range, the flames washing harmlessly over him even as they incinerate the demon's impure flesh. Then the outburst of sorcerous energy blasts the wounded demon to bits, scattering chunks of putrid flesh and wriggling worms across the room. The fiend's remains are quickly drawn into the singularity, and a few seconds later, it explodes, blackening the walls of the room and blowing out the windows!

Unfortunately, the chaotic destruction has an unintended side effect. The darkness that existed outside the windows begins to slowly creep into the hallway, and you realize that it is no mere darkness, but the Void itself! The blackness is torn through by a storm of debris that shrouds wispy beings assuming a fast-changing array of horrible shapes. Every now and then, you catch a glimpse of monstrous forms, giant red eyes swiveling to look upon you, and limbs and tails of incalculable size whipping through the darkness...

The crimson sphere has vanished, and the Sword of Unmaking clatters to the ground. "Quick! Cast it into the Void!" Sunionius Roo shouts!

Any character who looks upon the Void must get a success on a Will challenge roll with 3 banes or gain 1d6 Insanity. A character who goes mad as a result of gaining this Insanity must use his or her next action to rush toward the edge and leap into the darkness. On a success, the character is immune to this effect for 24 hours.

The blade doesn't want to be taken. Any creature that tries to take the sword must get a success on an Agility challenge roll with 3 banes as the sword attempts to strike it. On a failure, the creature takes 5d6 damage and must make a Strength challenge roll with 3 banes. On a second failure, the creature dies and its soul is devoured.


Male Human Level 10 / S 11, A 11, I 14, W, 12/(-1 bane) HP: 38, Damage: 13, Perception 14 (+3 boons), Defense 15- Currently (18), Move 10, Insanity 1, Corruption 5, Sorcerers Strain (0), Status: (Normal) Fortune: Yes Bonus Fortune (1)

Banes 4: The Void 3, Twain Self 1
Boons(5): Third Eye 2, Blessing 1, Dark Magic 2.

Chaos boon: 1d6 ⇒ 4 Bonus
Will vs.The Void: 1d20 + 2 + 4 + 1d6 ⇒ (17) + 2 + 4 + (1) = 24

Imedren knew this would be the outcome of his attack, even as he gazed upon the encroaching darkness.
"Dramm! Keep the barrier up. I think I can get the sword into the Void!"

He pushed forward, remembering what the broken world he had seen was like. He picked up the sword which refused to cooperate. It swung itself at him, shifted it's weight in odd patterns, and forced it's will upon him with every step.

Banes (4): The sword of Unmaking 3, Twain Self 1.
Boons (3) Blessing 1, Third eye 2.

Chaos boon: 1d6 ⇒ 6 Bonus!
Agility: 1d20 + 1 + 6 - 1d6 ⇒ (11) + 1 + 6 - (1) = 17

However, Imedren was used to the chaotic and often unpredictable things of the world. His future sight helped to guide him and with Dramm helping to safeguard him, he was able in the end to hurl the sword into the awakened darkness before the world came under a wave of terror.


As the Sword of Unmaking hurtles into the Void, the darkness seems to contract around it, swallowing it up greedily. There is a muffled detonation, and then hundreds of spectral forms come rushing out, weeping and crying in relief--all of the souls the accursed relic has devoured. They soar past you, buffeting your clothes slightly, before sinking into the ground to pass on to the Underworld. The encroaching Void falls back like a receding wave, dwindling away and restoring the rightful terrain of the fortress and the mountainside.

"It is done," Roo proclaims solemnly. "The ritual is unmade. The threat is no more."


Male Human Level 10 / S 11, A 11, I 14, W, 12/(-1 bane) HP: 38, Damage: 13, Perception 14 (+3 boons), Defense 15- Currently (18), Move 10, Insanity 1, Corruption 5, Sorcerers Strain (0), Status: (Normal) Fortune: Yes Bonus Fortune (1)

Imedren let out a heavy sigh of relief.

"We should go back and check the eastern turret and then the rest of this place to see if there's anyone else still alive."


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

Sel watches in awe as Imedren rushes in, invulnerable, chaotic magics swirling everywhere. If there was one thing magic was good for, it was pushing back the sway of demons. Watching the show of magical explosions and swirling chaotic colors was memorizing, but the association of such power with the demons did nothing for his opinion on the dangers of magic.

As the void opened up, his eyes were drawn in and the horrors beyond revealed themselves. The strange fragments of intellects and personalities without shape or form - the shard of th demon lord resonated with his own soul threatening to tear apart his mind.

Banes: 4d6 ⇒ (2, 1, 1, 5) = 9
Will: 1d20 - 5 ⇒ (15) - 5 = 10

But years of fighting alongside people like Dramm and Imedren and Joy have helped him strengthen his mind to such terrors, and he remained intact.


Female Halfling Warrior/Fighter/Champion 10 | S13, A14, I9, W12 | Health 62; Damage 6 | D19 | Move: 8 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Normal

Banes: 3d6 ⇒ (1, 2, 2) = 5
Will: 1d20 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 - 2 = 15

Uruuna stares stoically into the Void and does not blink.


A huge mound of corpses— six hundred and sixty-six men, women, and children, almost all of them human—stands in the center of the rubble-strewn floor of the eastern turret. Each of the bodies of the townsfolk of Oblivion has been mutilated, with eyes gouged from skulls and tongues pulled from mouths. The souls the demon was holding captive to fuel its ritual must have came from these unfortunate townsfolk. At least you can take some small comfort in knowing that they have now passed on to the next world.

The west turret is an empty shell. Cracks and fissures spread out from a yawning chasm that drops away into darkness. Those with shadowsight can spot humanoid shapes lurking in the cave below--ghouls eager for fresh meat. They pose no direct threat to you, though, and will flee if attacked from your advantageous position.

The lower chambers contain the chambers of Sunionius Roo's former acolytes. Searching these chambers turns up several coins.

Gold Crowns: 3d6 ⇒ (1, 4, 3) = 8
Silver Shillings: 5d20 ⇒ (12, 15, 13, 19, 2) = 61

The other side of the lower hall contains a locked iron door with no keyhole. Roo confides that the only way to open it is to splash it with blood drawn from an unwilling victim. There's always another way, though, and Imedren finds that he can simply teleport into the vualt and open it from the other side.

The vault is filled with an assortment of paintings, statuettes, rugs, jewels, and unidentifiable relics worth a total of 100 gold crowns. Searching the room also turns up several enchanted objects.

Enchanted Objects:
Object 1: 3d20 ⇒ (14, 17, 3) = 34
Object 2: 3d20 ⇒ (6, 9, 4) = 19
Object 3: 3d20 ⇒ (18, 3, 10) = 31
Object 4: 3d20 ⇒ (6, 4, 10) = 20 Reroll: 3d20 ⇒ (3, 2, 2) = 7
Object 5: 3d20 ⇒ (11, 2, 19) = 32

Annoying Doll: This creepy doll resembles a little girl with dead, glassy eyes. You can use an action to cause the object to emit a deafening wail in a 10-yard radius around it for 1 minute. During that time, all creatures in the area are deafened while they remain in the area, and creatures within 100 yards of the object make Perception challenge rolls to listen with 1 bane. The object has three uses.

Foggy Penny: This copper coin has the image of a ship at sea inscribed upon it. You can use an action to cause fog to spread out 10 yards around the object. The fog remains for 1 minute or until dispersed by wind and partially obscures its area. The object has three uses.

See No Evil: This is a mummified monkey with its hands covering its eyes. You can use an action to damp light in a 2-yard radius around the object. If lit, the area becomes shadows; if shadows, it becomes darkness.

Periapt of Proof Against Poison: You make challenge rolls with 1 boon to avoid becoming poisoned or to remove the poisoned affliction. You take half damage from poison.

"This Way is North" Sign: This wooden sign has an arrow that always points north. You always know which way is north.

They can't all be winners, folks.


With another world-threatening crisis averted, you journey back to Crossings. Sunionius Roo is grateful for your help but will not be staying in town, lest the agents of Hell hunting for him bring danger to the city. Instead, he plans on traveling across the Northern Reach, finding and destroying the other caches of forbidden magic he and his followers had accumulated. The clockwork bids you farewell, hoping that your paths might cross again one day once his quest of redemption is complete.

You have earned another moment to catch your breath, but you can't help but shake an ominous feeling that hangs over you. You feel as if this might be the last deep breath you will be able to take before the plunge...

Everybody has reached level 10! You have six weeks of downtime before the final adventure begins...

Downtime Activities:
Dramm: 3d6 ⇒ (3, 6, 5) = 141d20 ⇒ 17

You made a lifelong friend (as a commoner) who will accompany you on your adventures and help you.

Imedren: 3d6 ⇒ (2, 5, 6) = 131d20 ⇒ 16

An item you own turned out to be an enchanted object with a random property

Joy: 3d6 ⇒ (3, 6, 4) = 131d20 ⇒ 9

You found work in a new field. Add a random common profession.

Selgaer: 3d6 ⇒ (5, 5, 6) = 161d20 ⇒ 10

You acquired a small box containing 1d3 + 1 potions of the GM’s choice.

Shen: 3d6 ⇒ (4, 5, 4) = 131d20 ⇒ 7

You won some money gambling. Gain 1d6 gc.

Uruuna: 3d6 ⇒ (3, 6, 2) = 113d6 ⇒ (1, 3, 4) = 81d20 ⇒ 8

You did something that made you unwelcome to a certain group of people, such as a religious community, a guild, or the city guard. These people are unfriendly to you.


6 3 2 2 1 1 Master Magician/Witch/Trickster 10 (F) | S9, A13, I12 (w/coin), W13 | HP 13/31| Power 5 | Defense 14 | Insanity 3 | Fortune: No | Move: 10 | Status: Normal, definitely human

Joy begins to redirect the witch fire then events move incredibly quickly. The explosions and chaotic energy doom the demon but Joy realises that she is now looking at the Void itself!

3 banes: 1d6 ⇒ 31d6 ⇒ 51d6 ⇒ 3

Will vs the Void itself: 1d20 + 3 - 5 ⇒ (4) + 3 - 5 = 2

Insanity Gain: 1d6 ⇒ 2

New total: 2

She squeezes her eyes tightly, unable to keep looking at....IT.

***********************

"I can hang onto the sign. The other things I think would best be kept by others.", Joy says, still just a little shaken.


Lvl 10 Human Exorcist| HP 29/40| Defense 12 | Strain: 0 | Fortune: No | Strength 13, Agility 12, Intelligence 10, Wisdom 14| Move: 10 | Insanity: 0 | Corruption: 2 | Power: 5 | Status: Normal

Banes: 3d6 ⇒ (5, 1, 3) = 9
The Void: 1d20 + 4 - 5 ⇒ (14) + 4 - 5 = 13

The spell shielding Imedren falters as Dramm peers into the Void itself, then vanishes entirely. The sorcerer is staring fearfully into the swirling darkness devouring the evil blade. In that instant, Dramm sees the shattered insanity of the Demon Lord's realm. He sees seething flesh and wailing souls clawing in madness at the barriers between worlds. It is difficult to tell where one horror ends and the next begins. They are desperate to escape, to unravel everything that brings life to the world, to destroy everything that Dramm loves. Worst of all, Dramm can fell the shiver of corruption inside himself echoing their cries.

Staring into the endless abyss, Dramm finds purpose instead of despair. His mind must be unbreakable to stand against an unending enemy. He would slow this infection and help others to do the same. The rift closes before him but the nightmares would last many years.

**************

Dramm administers some healing before continuing on to help search the rest of the fortress. He comforts Joy as much as he is able after her chilling encounter.

"None of us are dead. That was actually more straight forward than some of our attempts. What do you plan to do now, Mr. Reed?"


Revenant Rogue/Fighter/Weapon Master | S10, A14, I13, W11 | HP 32/48 | D16+1 | Move:10 | Insanity: 5 | Corruption: 1 | Fortune: Spent | Status: Alive

Banes: 3d6 ⇒ (3, 4, 3) = 10
The Void calls: 1d20 + 1 - 4 ⇒ (15) + 1 - 4 = 12

Shen peers into the inky Void and sees the endless tide just beyond. At first fear sinks it's teeth into the elderly man, but a burning anger, long forgotten comes roiling to fight it back. His body tenses, and the urge to confront these horrors begins to well up in his body. He takes a step forward followed by another, but is stopped by a strange resonance he feels within the void. As if someone was within... Then the tide of darkness recedes and the presence is gone.

****************

The old man once again leans on his staff, as if the past few minutes never happened.

"For now, I have quite the number of dead to care for, The Father will have his crop. Then, I am unsure. Perhaps I will travel to Crossings and peruse the market."

Money Won!: 1d6 ⇒ 1GC


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Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

One month ago....

Sir, Thomas said.

Yes, Thomas? Selgaer replied.

I have something for you, sir. Something I was told to give you if you returned from your mission.

Well, let's have it, Sel said, holding out a hand towards his servant.

Thomas unveiled a delicate box of mohagony, gilded at the edges in vine and leaf patterns. The box was beautifully crafted. Who gave this to you? Sel inquired, on awe of the box.

Nightfall, Thomas responded.

Sel stopped short. That name brought back memories, and not pleasant ones.

What does he want? Sel asked, venom wrapped around the words.

He met me in Foundry, Tomas said....

Hey there, old chap, the elf said.

Thomas turned, and immediately recognized the prince. He bowed deeply, the perfect depth representing the difference in stature. Not an inch further. Thomas was keenly aware of his position and was proud of such knowledge. His role in life was to ensure his master was properly represent and properly respected, and this meant showing proper respects to others in order to prove the class of his employers.

Prince Nightfall, Thomas said in greeting as he bowed.

Please, the prince said, Not here. Leave that for the courts. Here, we are but two people in the streets of Foundry. Like the last two Thomas saw the prince, he was dressed in simple yet perfectly tailored clothing. The cloth itself was a rare cut; Thomas recognized the subtle pattern and the quality thread. It took a keen eye and a trained mind to catch it, but no fabric could escape him.

What can a humble servant do for you, my Lord? Thomas ask.

The faun of yours, the prince responded, he did a fine job. I want you to tell him that. Tell him that he is known by the elven court, and he is respected for his actions. I will ensure that he is assaulted no further by the faerie folk. At least not the elves or hobgoblins under my purview.

And, the prince said, give him this. The elf handed over a small box of high quality, made of mahogany wood with gilded Vines and leaves across it. It is what he desires, what he sent you here to collect. Without the associated risks.

I will, my lord, Thomas responded respectfully.

I do not suspect I will be seeing him again. So give my kind regards, old chap.

Thomas bowed again as the prince turned and walked away…..

And that is the story of how you were gifted this box, Thomas told Selgaer.

Sel opened the box and smiled at what he saw. His smile masked both anticipation and worry. He wasn't sure he wanted to do this, but he was sure he wanted what this would give him.

-------------

Today…

As usual, Sel was dressed in well tailored and well cut clothing. Thomas had always seem that he was dressed in the latest fashion and that the dress made Selgaer look good. It drew attention away from his flaws while accentuating his physique. It was amazing how much good clothing and styled hair could transform a person - and Thomas had been with him so long he could barely remember the flea ridden, dirt covered lad he used to be when he was captured by the elves. Back when he was human.

Still, nothing could dampen his spirits. He had a gift for Rena, and he was on his way to see her now.

When he saw her, she was laying down on a sofa, hands on her extended belly. Sel! she called out, I'm glad you're here. This kid of yours is a huge pain and I need someone I can hit. At least, someone I can hit without getting into legal or political repercussions.

Sel smiled at the joke and said, I'm happy to see you're well. I've brought something for you.

Oh? What is it? she asked.

A gift. You'll have to unwrap it to see.

For me? Sel smiled. Well, this is turning into quite the surprise! She patted the seat next to her, Come. Sit next to me. I have wine, she enticed.

Sel joined Rena on the couch. Sel pulled out the mahogany box he had been gifted from the elven prince. Rena's face was awash with curiosity as she opened it. What is it? she asked.

It's a powerful magical trinket. It can turn a person into any ancestry and make them look however they wish. I'm giving it to you so you can decide what the perfect person would look like. When I get back, tell me what she looks like, and I will become her. For you, Rena, because I love you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you, and I will become anyone for you. That is my gift.

Rena smiled. A real genuine smile that was devoid of any sarcasm or jokes. [b]Sel, she started, but she could not finish. She brushed a tear from an eye. Sel, that's the most thoughtful thing anyone has ever done for me.

After a moment, she cleared her throat and said, I've got something for you, too, Sel. I know you're leaving soon. I have these. She grabbed a box nearby and opened it. Inside were several vials of different shapes and colors. Potions. Use them, use them to help you come back to me.


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Revenant Rogue/Fighter/Weapon Master | S10, A14, I13, W11 | HP 32/48 | D16+1 | Move:10 | Insanity: 5 | Corruption: 1 | Fortune: Spent | Status: Alive

The old man buried the corpses. All six hundred and sixty six of them. With little more than a shovel, the old man dug six hundred and sixty six graves. It took him over a week of manual labor, but he did not tire, nor stop. In a way, the work of the body gave his mind time to think. The mindless monotony droned out the real world and Shen floated admits his thoughts, meditating.

He hadn't died in years, a strange thought to be sure. It was terrible in a way, to be so numb to death, even his own. He still feared it, though not for the oblivion it promised. No, it was something slower, more insidious than oblivion. Every time he rose again, he would remember less of who he was, lose more of his drive. He feared that one day, he may rise as little more husk than man, a mindless thrall to the whims of Father Death.

Shen Reed tried to reach back, into the misty shrouds of his memory, and bring forth who he once was. He had tried many times before, but never had much success. There were glimpses, here and there. The smell of a baked treat, the splash of water on his body, but nothing concrete. He needed to finish what he came back for, and soon. He owed it to the students that had followed him. Their souls needed to be freed.

************

Mr.Reed spent his time in Crossings exploring the markets and playing games of chance, finding fortune in the dice games in particular. On occasion, the older man would visit a certain flower shop, buying tea leaves and incense. He worked quietly as a boatman, not drawing attention to himself. Immersing himself in the hustle and bustle of the city was always a new experience, the people and culture changed all the time.

Sometimes, he'd see his students in the crowd. Every time, the old man would rush to their side, hollering for their attention. But, as it had been so many times before, the person turned out to be different. These experiences haunted Shen whenever he went into cities, which is why he avoided them for the most part. It wasn't uncommon for the elderly man to drown his sorrows amongst the tables and cheap wine afterward.

Sometimes, during particularly rainy days, Mr.Reed would take his boat out upon the water and practice his techniques. The swaying of the boat as he moved helped keep the old man light on his feet and his center of gravity balanced. It was comforting to practice, the techniques he'd worked on and perfected were wired into his body. While his mind had been failing him, he felt confident in his skills as a warrior.


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6 3 2 2 1 1 Master Magician/Witch/Trickster 10 (F) | S9, A13, I12 (w/coin), W13 | HP 13/31| Power 5 | Defense 14 | Insanity 3 | Fortune: No | Move: 10 | Status: Normal, definitely human

Joy makes time to meet everyone she can. It's to encourage them, and to raise spirits, for sure. But it's also because Joy wants to be sure that people will remember her.

I hope this fear is just that - fear. That we'll beat Katandramus and keep Crossings safe!

She helps out with Father Gregory. She meets Regis and the others to help the newer members. She visits Commander Rena to make sure she has all she needs. She spends time with Uruuna, listening to her and helping on patrols for a bit.

Joy reaches out. Tilly Greens for example, whom she used to work with, in what feels like a long time ago.

While Joy has not taken down her mask for those apart from her close friends, the prospect does not frighten her, not very much.

She fears that time is growing short. So she tries to do good with it.


Lvl 10 Human Exorcist| HP 29/40| Defense 12 | Strain: 0 | Fortune: No | Strength 13, Agility 12, Intelligence 10, Wisdom 14| Move: 10 | Insanity: 0 | Corruption: 2 | Power: 5 | Status: Normal

Parting with Roo frustrates Dramm. Not because the Sorcerer is fond of the man, but because he feels letting a "reformed" servant of the Demon Lord walk away is a dangerous proposition. It makes for a tense moment, watching Roo walk away. The thought of simply destroying the Clockwork body is compelling, but Roo had escaped from Hell before. Destroying him again seemed like a way to make a very patient and powerful enemy. In the end, Dramm simply watches him leave and hopes that he is truly penitent.

*****************

Every return to the crossings is a jarring experience for Dramm. Adjusting to the hustle and bustle of crowded streets always takes a couple of days. He finds comfort in returning to the relatively few places in the city where he is able to shun the outside world. Ezekia's cottage is one such place. Anophth's old shop is another.

For a time, Dramm focuses on enjoying his honeymoon with Ezekia. They take a trip by train to the North to see the airships that float above the cities. Anophth had told Dramm about them once, and seeing a machine lift men to sail the skies was a thing of wonder. Ezekia even convinced the stubborn Sorcerer to join her on one of these floating behemoths. He would never forget the look on her face looking out over city from the sky.

*****************

Life continues on in an almost surreal fashion for the next few weeks, people none the wiser of the void rift that almost consumed Oblivion. Dramm finds his mind replaying what he saw inside that tear in reality. He understood he needed to combat this threat, but he found himself at a loss for how. Despite the power he had accumulated, it seemed beyond his scope to do more than slay the demons that were pouring forth. He was a bucket trying to stop an ocean, and he needed more.

******************

It was Caribdus who eventually offered a new path. The wizard finally called in his old debt. A fellow academic had met an unfortunate end inside an Elven shrine and now Caribdus needed someone to retrieve an artifact the delver had used: A glass instrument that shifted and sprang eternally into new geometric shapes. Caribdus said that the instrument was very carefully attuned to the presence of magic and could be used to identify various traditions and effects. Most importantly, he promised to give a few names that Dramm might be interested in tracking down if he was seeking to truly put his magical knowledge to better use. An expedition was still a few weeks away, but preparation was key for such things. After Katandramus was taken care of and crisis was averted, Dramm would have a path forward.


The Final Chapter: The End is Near

"Mayor Edgerton has been murdered."

Uruuna greeted you with that grim pronouncement earlier tonight, gathering you up to investigate the grisly crime. Father Gregory discovered the crime, having been summoned to the mayor's office for a late-night meeting. The Brown Cloaks have formed a perimeter around the mayor's residence in Gavel, a fine two-story house whose main floor is used for conducting business, with the upper floor used for living quarters. The bodies of four guards on the main floor are covered with sheets. All of them were torn apart, and one completely drained of blood.

Katrin’s remains are still in her office, but all that remains of her is her spine, a few fingers, and her head. The office window is shattered, and bits of broken glass litter the floor. Painted in blood on the wall is a message - “Return the Eye!”

The first character to see the mayor's remains must get a success on a Will challenge roll or gain 1 Insanity.


6 3 2 2 1 1 Master Magician/Witch/Trickster 10 (F) | S9, A13, I12 (w/coin), W13 | HP 13/31| Power 5 | Defense 14 | Insanity 3 | Fortune: No | Move: 10 | Status: Normal, definitely human

Having being about to meet Uruuna, Joy is shocked at the news.

"Oh no! I'll go right away! Maybe I can bring him back, with some preparation!"

Before Uruuna can protest, Joy runs off, right towards the thick of things.

*****
Joy's boots cease their hurried movements.

All that the browncloaks she rushed past now can now hear is a wordless wail of horror.

Will: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

Insanity 3


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

Sel was with Bel when the news came. The two brothers looked at each other. Security. We need security. I'll send runners to every prominent figure in the city, Bel said. Go, see to the Mayor. See who did this, Sel.

Will do. See on Rena for me, will ya? Sel was already moving, meeting Thomas to help him down his armor. His weapons were cleaned, polished, and ready to grab.

Of course, Bel said, She's got her knights, though, so she should he safe. But I'll send someone just in case.

Sel moved quickly through the streets. The faun was practically flying with just how fast he could run. He arrived at just about the same the as everyone else.

------

The grisly scene was a shock. Sure, Sel has seen such ghastly sites before, but the juxtaposition of the horrors here contrasted to the kind woman that was the Mayor made the entire thing more unsettling.

Will: 1d20 - 1d6 ⇒ (13) - (5) = 8

New insanity total: 1.


Revenant Rogue/Fighter/Weapon Master | S10, A14, I13, W11 | HP 32/48 | D16+1 | Move:10 | Insanity: 5 | Corruption: 1 | Fortune: Spent | Status: Alive

I think only the first person to see the body has to take the will check.
Will, just in case.: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4

Shen was not overly familiar with the Mayor, but the scene of her death still did not sit well with him. "Urgh, this is clearly not the work of humans. Just horrible!" The elderly man turns away from the horrid remains, trying to focus on something, anything else.

It wasn't long before he noticed the writing on the wall. "The Eye? What could this mean?" His voice wavered, but did not break.


Lvl 10 Human Exorcist| HP 29/40| Defense 12 | Strain: 0 | Fortune: No | Strength 13, Agility 12, Intelligence 10, Wisdom 14| Move: 10 | Insanity: 0 | Corruption: 2 | Power: 5 | Status: Normal

Dramm shook his head. What could have reduced the woman to such a state? He had a sinking feeling that he would find out sooner than he liked.

"A cruel message. Maybe they mean the Oracular? We knew Katandramus desired the artifact." Dramm bent down to inspect the remains. He did not hold high hopes given the state of Katrin's remains, but any clue what he was up against could help. He feared he would find claw or bite marks instead of clean cuts. Another demon in the city would mean a hunt.

"The Oracular was an object with powerful divination magic." He adds for Shen's benefit. "It has a corrupting influence. Maybe we should destroy it? I doubt it would be easy."


The wounds are jagged, as if made by sharp claws. Dramm also notices that on Katrin’s desk, a blood-soaked notebook is open to a page holding two names, Katandramus and Fobb, the elderly halfling councilman.


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

Sel kneels down next to Joe and wraps her in his arms, holding her while she cries, rocking her as she lets her emotions flail. We'll get to the bottom of this. We'll find who did it.

After long moments as she starts to regain her composure, he helps her up and then starts to look about the room.

Look. Here. These names, Dramm. They look like someone with a bloodied hand flipped to these pages. They want us to know these names. What do you think it means? I mean, we know Katamdramus is a bad actor, but Fobb? Maybe he's the next victim. We need to check his office and home next.


6 3 2 2 1 1 Master Magician/Witch/Trickster 10 (F) | S9, A13, I12 (w/coin), W13 | HP 13/31| Power 5 | Defense 14 | Insanity 3 | Fortune: No | Move: 10 | Status: Normal, definitely human

Joy starts to calm down with Sel's assuring presence.

"Oh...that was *horrible*. I'll be okay now, I think. What's this about Fobb? We have to go to him! If he's victim or villain, he's surely next! Unless this is a trick..."


Lvl 10 Human Exorcist| HP 29/40| Defense 12 | Strain: 0 | Fortune: No | Strength 13, Agility 12, Intelligence 10, Wisdom 14| Move: 10 | Insanity: 0 | Corruption: 2 | Power: 5 | Status: Normal

"Fobb could be a target or an enemy. It's hard to tell. We should gather the Cloaks and raid his home. We can collect and hold the councilman for his safety. We may also surprise him and collect his notes if he is helping Katandramus."

Dramm pulls away from the mess at the desk and examines the shattered window next.

"Claws butchered the councilwoman. A creature did this, not a weapon. It may still be within the city. I couldn't track something like that through the streets. Selgaer? Joy?"


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

I can track anything so long as I can get a good look at it first. Show me it with your magic, and we can hunt it.


Revenant Rogue/Fighter/Weapon Master | S10, A14, I13, W11 | HP 32/48 | D16+1 | Move:10 | Insanity: 5 | Corruption: 1 | Fortune: Spent | Status: Alive

Shen shakes his head. "I'm afraid my skills are lacking here. I am also unfamiliar with this 'Fobb' character. What do we know of him?"

The priest softly whispered a prayer for the dead mayor.


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

Fobb? He's a bit of an ass, but I wouldn't expect him to resort to anything like this. He's on the council; represents the city’s halflings. Been at it for decades. Bel says he's so old that he can't keep track of conversations, but my brother suspects it's a ruse to keep people second guessing. Still, wouldn't expect this.

The other name? Well, I think one of them should explain who he is.


Male Human Level 10 / S 11, A 11, I 14, W, 12/(-1 bane) HP: 38, Damage: 13, Perception 14 (+3 boons), Defense 15- Currently (18), Move 10, Insanity 1, Corruption 5, Sorcerers Strain (0), Status: (Normal) Fortune: Yes Bonus Fortune (1)

Imedren grimaced at the sight of Mayor Katrin Edgarton's demise. There had been many months after they'd first started working with the city council where the only thing keeping him and Uruuna off the streets had been her patronage. More than that, she had worked hard for this city taking specific care to ensure the less fortunate among them were better off than they might otherwise be. She would be missed.

"Katandramus, is a dangerous cultist of the Demon Lord who has already tried to send this city into chaos and destruction before. Last time we were able to thwart his designs but he himself managed to escape."


Female Halfling Warrior/Fighter/Champion 10 | S13, A14, I9, W12 | Health 62; Damage 6 | D19 | Move: 8 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Normal

"Whoever killed Mayor Edgerton killed her guards as well," Uruuna says. "All save one. A fifth guard assigned to the house remains missing--a young man named Lawrence who joined the mayor's guard detail a month ago. If we can find him, we might be able to learn more about what happened here."


A pair of other Brown Cloaks enter the room, holding a man in dark robes with tattoos on his arms and face. "Lieutenant Uruuna! We caught this suspicious individual skulking about outside!"


Lvl 10 Human Exorcist| HP 29/40| Defense 12 | Strain: 0 | Fortune: No | Strength 13, Agility 12, Intelligence 10, Wisdom 14| Move: 10 | Insanity: 0 | Corruption: 2 | Power: 5 | Status: Normal

"Lieutenant. You're moving up fast, Uruuna." He sends an appreciative nod her way. "Been a gift to us."

Dramm steps away from the window to follow Uruuna. Selgaer made his trained efforts look amateurish anyway and the faun could be trusted to track down anyone. Dramm would rather have a look at this new informant.


6 3 2 2 1 1 Master Magician/Witch/Trickster 10 (F) | S9, A13, I12 (w/coin), W13 | HP 13/31| Power 5 | Defense 14 | Insanity 3 | Fortune: No | Move: 10 | Status: Normal, definitely human

"I have other ways to help besides finding. It's not my strong point.", replies the now much-calmer Joy.

She brightens up further at Uruuna's words.

"Luckily, we have a Lieutenant of the Watch right here!"


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

I'll start looking for clues outside as well. If someone snuck in or out, hopefully we can find some tracks.

One roll for finding clues inside, one roll for finding clues outside. If perception is a better stat, then those rolls become +6 instead of +3.

Intellect: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18
Intellect: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23


Revenant Rogue/Fighter/Weapon Master | S10, A14, I13, W11 | HP 32/48 | D16+1 | Move:10 | Insanity: 5 | Corruption: 1 | Fortune: Spent | Status: Alive

"The timing of this Lawrence's hiring is a little suspicious. Do we know where he worked before the mayor's home?" The old man's thin brow furrowed in thought, there were drawbacks to living the life of a hermit...

"I'll aid your interrogation of this miscreant. Hopefully we can draw something useful out of him." Shen leans on his staff once again, hunching like a weathered old fisherman.


The guards threw the robed figure to the ground at Uruuna's feet, looking expectantly at her while the she talked with the group. Suddenly the figure breathed deeply, lurched upwards, and disappeared before your eyes.

"Thanks boys, you can go now. You're not getting a tip though; maybe don't drag your detainee all the way to the whatever-building-this-is next time, hmmmm?"

A familiar, although disembodied, sarcastic tone scolds the two brown cloaks. You can sense movement, and then nothing. For a several long seconds the air is quiet and still until the voice came again, sounding like someone going through the motions of a routine meeting.

"Well? Go on then, with whatever you were talking about. I'll catch up as we go, you know I've never really cared for the specifics anyway."


The mayor's staff tells you that Lawrence worked as a bouncer at the Liquid Smoke tavern before joining her staff. His former flat is just above that tavern, not far from the mayor's residence.

Selgaer finds several bare footprints around the house's main floor and the streets surrounding it, though the tracks become to difficult to follow. The toes have claws, indicating that whatever made them wasn't fully human.


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

After a short while Selgaer returns, I found some prints outside, leading away. Bare feet with class toes - definitely not a normal citizen of Crossings - he abruptly cuts his words off and looks around. He sniffs the air. Do you smell that? he half whispers, It's pungent. Different from before. Like soured milk and cat s%*!. Something happened while I was away, didn't it? What happened?


"Perhaps, unfortunately the stench of hay, manure, and Fae magic has suddenly overpowered the room."

The robed figure materialized in front of Selgaer, uncomfortably close to the fawn and facing the other direction.

"Now don't try to act surprised, I'm sure you knew I was here as soon as you set foot into the building. Silly goat-man."


6 3 2 2 1 1 Master Magician/Witch/Trickster 10 (F) | S9, A13, I12 (w/coin), W13 | HP 13/31| Power 5 | Defense 14 | Insanity 3 | Fortune: No | Move: 10 | Status: Normal, definitely human

Joy feels a chill, one which has nothing to do with the temprature.

Then, she tries a gambit, perhaps inspired by the coin that she is rubbing without really noticing.

She simply says, slowly:

"Pentachus Katandramus."


Male Human Level 10 / S 11, A 11, I 14, W, 12/(-1 bane) HP: 38, Damage: 13, Perception 14 (+3 boons), Defense 15- Currently (18), Move 10, Insanity 1, Corruption 5, Sorcerers Strain (0), Status: (Normal) Fortune: Yes Bonus Fortune (1)

"Who are you?" Imedren asked, eyeing Joy as he rounded on the mysterious robed figure.

Boons: 3d6 ⇒ (4, 2, 5) = 11
Perception: 1d20 + 4 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 4 + 5 = 21


Male Human Level 10 / S 11, A 11, I 14, W, 12/(-1 bane) HP: 38, Damage: 13, Perception 14 (+3 boons), Defense 15- Currently (18), Move 10, Insanity 1, Corruption 5, Sorcerers Strain (0), Status: (Normal) Fortune: Yes Bonus Fortune (1)

Imedren stared hard at the newcomer before he straightened, his posture relaxing ever so slightly..

"TaBog, is that you?"


Ferren Rogue/Sharpshooter/Assassin 10 | S9, A14, I13, W10 | HP 25/42 | D14 | Speed10 | Power2 | Insanity7 | Corruption3 | Fortune: No | Status: Too Old For This

The figure tosses his outer robes off dramatically,

"Imedren! Who else would it be!? Didn't see this with your third eye did'ja?"

With a mischievous grin on his face, Tabog held our his arms and strode toward his good friend for an embrace.
Since the last time you've seen the rogue, it is apparent that he has become a bit thinner, and generally holds a more sinister air about himself, though his intentions do not.
He's still the jovial, sarcastic killer you knew when he saved the group from that band of orcs.


Revenant Rogue/Fighter/Weapon Master | S10, A14, I13, W11 | HP 32/48 | D16+1 | Move:10 | Insanity: 5 | Corruption: 1 | Fortune: Spent | Status: Alive

"So, this is a friend of yours?" Shen said, making himself known. He watched TaBog carefully as he spoke.


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

"Friend" is not the wore I would use, Sel said. Come, we have tracks to follow. Let us see where they lead.


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

The tracks seem to dissipate after following them for a bit as they cross traffic of the city steps over them, Sel says. So much for that lead. Next up is the guard and Fobb. Let's head to Fobb's office first.


Revenant Rogue/Fighter/Weapon Master | S10, A14, I13, W11 | HP 32/48 | D16+1 | Move:10 | Insanity: 5 | Corruption: 1 | Fortune: Spent | Status: Alive

"Alright, but let's prepare for a fight. It's fairly likely to be an ambush." Shen says, looking at the opened book. "If the culprit left the book for us to find, a confrontation is unavoidable."


You head across the district of Gavel towards Elder Fobb's manor house. You find the place nearly abandoned--none of the usual halflings who staff the place are present. The elderly councilman is in his office, desperately sorting through documents, stuffing some in a large satchel while tossing others into the fireplace behind him. When you enter, he looks up at you with a malice in his eyes.

"I knew it would only be a matter of time for you to come here after Katrin's death. You've been a thorn in our side for far too long. But I'm done--with this town, with the Brotherhood, all of it! I'm cutting my losses! Run away and live, or stay here and die!"

With that, the halfling casts an idol to the ground. As it shatters, shadows slither forth and shape up into the form of a monstrous demon! The fiend resembles an enormously bloated quadruped with thick, muscular legs covered in oily black feathers. Long, writhing tentacles emerge from its back, while an oddly human head sprouts from within the tentacles, whispering maddening secrets!

The demon is horrifying! Everybody but Dramm and Shen must succeed at a Will challenge or gain 1 Insanity and be frightened for a number of rounds equal to your new Insanity total. At the end of each round (and start of combat), everybody must make another Will challenge or gain 1 Insanity from its whispers. Everybody may act!


Male Human Level 10 / S 11, A 11, I 14, W, 12/(-1 bane) HP: 38, Damage: 13, Perception 14 (+3 boons), Defense 15- Currently (18), Move 10, Insanity 1, Corruption 5, Sorcerers Strain (0), Status: (Normal) Fortune: Yes Bonus Fortune (1)

"Half! Half of the bloody council!"

Dark magic boons: 2d6 ⇒ (6, 5) = 11
Will vs. horrifying: 1d20 + 2 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 2 + 6 = 28

Fast initiative: Greater Sorcery- Empower spell. +1 strain. Action- Cast Shape Magic to mimic a Time Disruption spell.
Banes: 5d6 ⇒ (6, 6, 5, 3, 1) = 21
Will: 1d20 + 2 - 6 ⇒ (20) + 2 - 6 = 16

Success: You entangle the timelines of creatures in the area. Each
creature in the area must make a Will challenge roll with 3 banes. On a failure, the creature gains 1d3 Insanity and becomes stunned for 1 minute. At the end of each round until the effect ends for a creature, it can repeat the Will challenge roll. On a success, the creature removes the stunned affliction from itself but can take only slow turns, either moving or using an action on each of its turns for the remainder of the spell’s duration.
In this case, it's 5 banes for the demon and Fobb.

Banes: 2d6 ⇒ (3, 4) = 7
Will vs. Outburst: 1d20 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (12) + 2 - 4 = 10


Banes: 5d6 ⇒ (1, 3, 4, 1, 4) = 13
Will: 1d20 - 1 - 4 ⇒ (1) - 1 - 4 = -4
Uncanny Luck Reroll: 1d20 - 1 - 4 ⇒ (15) - 1 - 4 = 10

The demon is immune to Imedren's stunning spell, and Elder Fobb somehow lucks out and just manages to resist it!


Male Faun Level 10 Hunter/Ranger/Acrobat | S11, A14 (16), I13, W10 | Health 51 | Damage 0 | D16 (23) | Move: 16 (18) | Perc 16 | Insanity: 3 | Corruption: 0 | NR: 2/2 | Fortune: Yes | Status: Regen, Oak Hide, Thorny, F. Grace, Agil, Cons, Phase

Will vs Horrifying: 1d20 - 1d6 ⇒ (19) - (3) = 16
Will vs Whispers: 1d20 - 1d6 ⇒ (19) - (1) = 18

Fast

Triggered Action: Set Prey (Fobb)
Boons: Hunter, Ranger. Banes: Unbalancing Attack.
Attack: 1d20 + 4 + 1d6 ⇒ (8) + 4 + (1) = 13
Damage: 5d6 + 1 ⇒ (3, 3, 6, 6, 4) + 1 = 23

Sel ignores the demon, leaving it to more capable hands. Imedren and Dramm and even (ugh) TaBog can handle it. Instead, Sel darts forward going after Fobb. You're not getting away, Fobb! Sel declares, dancing past the demon as if it weren't even there. Once at Fobb, Sel swings his spear in a sweeping motion, slicing at Fobb's legs and trying to knock him off his feet.

Sel and move and attack on a fast move, and all his movement ignores difficult terrain and does not trigger free attacks.

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