[AP] Iron Gods by GM Rutseg

Game Master Balacertar

For her proximity to the next door in need of shredding, Chaance produces her adamantine blade, and strikes and strikes until their way is clear. It gives her something to focus on, rather than dwell on the new macabre finds.

When Zzvkgrogk describes the Mouthpiece, Chaance feels something akin to protectiveness, as she imagines allowing the snake down her throat. My throat? Or this android's. No, best to think it mine, for now.

"It is difficult to see this alien presence as anything other than revolting. But it used the word 'sacred'. I can't stop thinking about that. That they... revere..."

As Chaance's adamantine blade cleaves through the fibers opening the way to the west, the stench of rot and decay rushes out, almost overwhelming in its intensity. The area beyond is a vision of nightmare.

L7. Attendants’ Cabin
Strings of tissue hang rancid and foul from the ceiling of this hourglass-shaped room. What may have once been some form of partially biological control panels line the western walls, but today they’ve all decayed into foulness.

But it's not the state of the room that draws your attention. In the center of the chamber, four massive, crab-like monstrosities turn their lamprey-like mouths towards you. Their bodies bristle with twitching eyes on stalks, each one holding a humanoid brain encased within bulbous blisters on their backs.

With a screech that echoes both in the physical and telepathic realms, they launch themselves at you, claws extended and magic crackling around them as they prepare to defend their territory.

Chaance: sickened
Rūha: 2 damage
Yambul: 2 damage, barkskin 84 min
Zzvkgrogk: fly 2 min, barkskin 84 min, heightened awareness 83 min and investigative mind 83 min, mutagen (+4 Dex, 2 Wis) 83 min
Round 1: Zzvkgrogk, Alien-crabs, Chaance, Yambul, Rūha, Rhoreen, Hyrsek

"Zzvk, please stop describing them. It's bad enough that we're within a one kilometer radius of them. I suggest we leave them well enough alone - and maybe they'll finish rotting soon."

Zzvkgrogk’s eyebrows raise as his eyes widen in surprise at Rūha plea. ”I’m.. I’m sorry… I thought you were feeling better.”

He moves on.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

KnowDungeoneeringDC21: 1d20 + 10 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 10 + 2 = 29

”AIAAAAAH! It’s bugs! It’s bu-neh-thalggus! Poisonous brain collectors! Shoot them! Shoot them! Shoot!” Zzvkgrogk shrieks.
He takes a step back in terror and shoots.

rtchrtchrtchrtchrtchrtch!
BlindingLaser++: 1d20 + 14 - 4 ⇒ (9) + 14 - 4 = 19 Touch, -DeadlyAim
for Damage: 1d6 + 5d6 + 4 + 6 ⇒ (4) + (2, 1, 1, 4, 2) + 4 + 6 = 24 Zzvkgrogk Special, Deadly Aim, Fire, Blinding Laser

LaserPistol+: 1d20 + 9 - 4 + 2 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (8) + 9 - 4 + 2 + 1 - 2 = 14 Touch, -DeadlyAim,
for Damage: 1d6 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 6 + 2 = 10 Deadly Aim, Rūha, Fire

Save vs DC 18 or be blinded by one minute, creatures in the splash area that fail their saves against the bomb are dazzled for 1 minute. This is a light effect.

"Stomach is peachy. It's my eyes and mind that could use relief..." Rūha offers back to Zzvk as the group continues. At the appearance of the neh-thalggu, Rūha nods "Binox's victim, I think. Well past time we met these ourselves." and readies herself.

Zzvkgrogk gets a good shot on the first one in line causing heavy burns, though the flashy fire does not blind or dazzle them.
Fort DC 18: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27
Fort DC 18: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (17) + 9 = 26

"মহাকাশযান আক্রমণকারীদের থামান! তাদের আমাদের গোপনীয়তা চুরি করতে দেবেন না!" one of them shouts out.

Corrugating lightning bolts start to burn through the leading ones onto you!
Electrical damage (DC 16): 7d6 ⇒ (5, 6, 2, 5, 6, 1, 1) = 26 vs Chaance, Rūha and Rhoreen
Electrical damage (DC 16): 7d6 ⇒ (1, 3, 3, 5, 3, 5, 4) = 24 vs Yambul, Hyrsek and Zzvkgrogk
Electrical damage (DC 16): 7d6 ⇒ (5, 5, 4, 6, 6, 1, 2) = 29 vs Yambul and Hyrsek

Hyrsek Ref DC 16: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (20) + 15 = 35
Hyrsek Ref DC 16: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (15) + 15 = 30
Hyrsek seems to cope well with the rays, partly by a great display of agility, partly by some tiefling natural resistance to the electricity.

The one at the back gets closer and looks at Yambul, as it says words of power that menace to leave him paralized.
Will DC 16 vs hold person

The creatures are flying 10 feet over the ground.

Yellow: 24 damage
Chaance: sickened
Hyrsek: 16 damage
Rūha: 2 damage
Yambul: 2 damage, barkskin 84 min
Zzvkgrogk: fly 2 min, barkskin 84 min, heightened awareness 83 min and investigative mind 83 min, mutagen (+4 Dex, 2 Wis) 83 min
Round 1: Chaance, Yambul, Rūha, Rhoreen, Hyrsek Round 2: Zzvkgrogk, Alien-crabs

Everyone can go!

Reflex: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30

Rūha resumes her Advice to the group, then moves into the room to a position where she won't be in a direct line with anyone else. "Stay firm but spread out, their brain blisters are likely a weak point." (+2/+2 for all)

Not sure how Rhoreen is in a line when she’s flying 10’ up.

1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 6 + 2 = 9 Reflex

Round 1

Rhoreen flies to where she can examine the creatures more clearly.

1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 12 + 2 = 30 Know (Dungeoneering)

”Well, I see. I see they like magic, let’s see if they like fire,” Rhoreen responds with her own fireball at yellow and green.

10d6 ⇒ (2, 3, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1, 3, 6, 4) = 33 Fireball (DC20 Reflex for half)
1d20 + 10 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 10 + 2 = 25 SR check

Reflex: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29 vs DC 16 for 12hp
Reflex: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (10) + 11 = 21 vs DC 16 for 14hp

Yambul avoids most of the scorching, but what gets through is painful enough as all his hair stands on end.

Will: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14 vs DC 16 or held...

He concentrates and tries to resist the lure of the hold! (Improved iron will)
Will: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (17) + 9 = 26 vs DC 16 for not held

... and he does!

Yambul can’t wait until flying is an option… Until then, he drops his chainsaw (sigh) and draws his bow - taking another shot at the most wounded (yellow I think) after he studies it.

Longbow: 1d20 + 13 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 13 + 5 = 29 (studied, advice)
damage: 1d8 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 7 + 5 = 18 (studied, advice)

He then 5’ steps back to give others a clear shot.

Yambul and Rūha protect themselves from the bolts while Rhoreen simply flies away.

The aliens are well fried in the fireball flames, and they shriek in pain, so at least in that, they are not different from people from Golarion.
Green Ref DC 20: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 = 11
Yellow Ref DC 20: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12

Yambul then swaps weapons and puts an arrow on the Neh-Thalggu which barely remains fighting.

Hyrsek follows Yambul, taking the bow and placing an arrow in the air.
mwk longbow+advice+st+advice: 1d20 + 18 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 18 + 3 + 2 = 30
P damage+st+advice: 1d8 + 3 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 3 + 3 + 2 = 12
The arrow sinks deep, and leaves the creature staggered in the air.

Green: 33 damage, slightly wounded
Yellow: 105 damage, deadly wounded, disabled
Chaance: sickened
Hyrsek: 16 damage
Rūha: 2 damage
Yambul: 2 damage, barkskin 84 min
Zzvkgrogk: fly 2 min, barkskin 84 min, heightened awareness 83 min and investigative mind 83 min, mutagen (+4 Dex, 2 Wis) 83 min
Round 1: Chaance, Yambul, Rūha, Rhoreen, Hyrsek Round 2: Zzvkgrogk, Alien-crabs

RefSaveDC16: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (16) + 21 = 37 for 12

If Zzvkgrogk can still be flying, he would totally be in the air with Rhoreen. Is it a cut paste thing, or is he really still flying?

"Good! Keep shooting! Keep shooting! Shoot!"

rtchrtchrtchrtchrtchrtch!
BlindingLaser++: 1d20 + 14 - 4 ⇒ (16) + 14 - 4 = 26 Touch, -DeadlyAim
for Damage: 1d6 + 5d6 + 4 + 6 ⇒ (1) + (1, 3, 5, 4, 5) + 4 + 6 = 29 Zzvkgrogk Special, Deadly Aim, Fire, Blinding Laser

LaserPistol+: 1d20 + 9 - 4 + 2 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (10) + 9 - 4 + 2 + 1 - 2 = 16 Touch, -DeadlyAim
for Damage: 1d6 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 6 + 2 = 12 Deadly Aim, Rūha, Fire

Save vs DC 18 or be blinded by one minute, creatures in the splash area that fail their saves against the bomb are dazzled for 1 minute. This is a light effect.

Round 1

Knowledge(Dungeoneering) v DC 21: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (20) + 14 = 34

"They have secrets, and they're fool enough to admit them while preparing to protect them." Chaance drops her blade, the more suitable weapon for striking at flying foes already in hand.

Reflex Save v DC 16: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (17) + 17 = 34

The elfdroid observes the electricity, and wants nothing to do with it. Her body contorts, and remains untouched. Evasion for the win

She reciprocates on Red.

Einior...: 1d20 + 17 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (10) + 17 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 2 - 3 = 26 for 1d8 + 4 + 4 + 2 - 2 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 4 + 4 + 2 - 2 + 6 = 17 piercing, magical damage, including Roo and Sickened and Favored Enemy

Einior...: 1d20 + 12 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (2) + 12 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 2 - 3 = 13 for 1d8 + 4 + 4 + 2 - 2 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 4 + 4 + 2 - 2 + 6 = 15 piercing, magical damage, including Roo and Sickened and Favored Enemy

Einior...: 1d20 + 17 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (8) + 17 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 2 - 3 = 24 for 1d8 + 4 + 4 + 2 - 2 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 4 + 4 + 2 - 2 + 6 = 18 piercing, magical damage, including Roo and Sickened and Favored Enemy

Forgot the +2/+2 from Rūha!

Flying Zzvkgrogk shots from the air, his special getting rid of the alien in a blinding flash.
Fort DC 18: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (8) + 9 = 17
Fort DC 18: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22

Most of Chaance arrows strike true on her target, causing very real wounds on the alien while she fully avoids the electricity rampaging through the room.

The red one flies closer producing a coruscating black ray that menaces to sap Chaance's strength.
Ray of enfeeblement (touch): 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19
Strength damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7 Fort DC 14 for half

Meanwhile, the other two try to halt down Rūha's approach with two paralyzing magic attacks.
2x Will DC 16

Green: 33 damage, slightly wounded
Red: 35 damage
Yellow: 136 damage, dead
Chaance: sickened
Hyrsek: 16 damage
Rūha: 2 damage
Yambul: 2 damage, barkskin 84 min
Zzvkgrogk: fly 2 min, barkskin 84 min, heightened awareness 83 min and investigative mind 83 min, mutagen (+4 Dex, 2 Wis) 83 min
Round 2: Chaance, Yambul, Rūha, Rhoreen, Hyrsek Round 3: Zzvkgrogk, Alien-crabs

Yambul keeps up his archery. Not nearly as good as Chaance’s, but he still has his strength (for now). He studies and then fires on green.

Longbow: 1d20 + 13 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 13 + 5 = 25 (studied, advice)
damage: 1d8 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 7 + 5 = 15 (studied, advice)

Longbow: 1d20 + 8 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 8 + 5 = 14 (studied, advice)
damage: 1d8 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 7 + 5 = 17 (studied, advice)

Will: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (19) + 15 = 34
Will: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (4) + 15 = 19

Rūha maintains her Advice for the group, then readies and fires her autograpnel at the green neh-thallgu! The paralyzing spells slide off her, her will simply too strong.

+1 Autograpnel (grapple, slow-fire): 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (1) + 13 = 14 Damage (P, adamantine): 1d8 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16

At the last moment a whiff of her surroundings infiltrates her nose and she shudders, firing the bolt well off target.

Round 2

Rhoreen isn’t going to go charging into the room just yet. She repositions herself, and offer Chaance the ill-defined blessing from her skymetal rod.

At Chaance:

Skymetal's Onus: The subject of this onus is infused with the unquantifiable nature of skymetal. The target can choose one attack or one saving throw during the next 2 rounds, it may roll twice and take the better result (choose before rolling). 43/50.

Yambul puts a solid arrow on the green alien monstrosity, while Rūha barely manages to avoid damaging herself as she has to focus on resisting the mental attacks.

Chaance feels a sudden boost of good luck when Rhoreen focuses her bar on her.

Hyrsek nocks his arrow with a grin, aiming at the alien's pulsating brain blister "Let's see how your secrets hole up against Golarion steel!"
Longbow+advice+st+advice: 1d20 + 18 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 18 + 3 + 2 = 38
P damage+st+advice: 1d8 + 3 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 3 + 2 = 13

Longbow+advice+st+advice: 1d20 + 13 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 13 + 3 + 2 = 29
P damage+st+advice: 1d8 + 3 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 3 + 3 + 2 = 9

Longbow+advice+st+advice: 1d20 + 8 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 8 + 3 + 2 = 23
P damage+st+advice: 1d8 + 3 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 3 + 3 + 2 = 16

Green: 86 damage, badly wounded
Red: 35 damage
Chaance: sickened
Hyrsek: 16 damage
Rūha: 2 damage
Yambul: 2 damage, barkskin 84 min
Zzvkgrogk: fly 2 min, barkskin 84 min, heightened awareness 83 min and investigative mind 83 min, mutagen (+4 Dex, 2 Wis) 83 min
Round 2: Chaance, Yambul, Rūha, Rhoreen, Hyrsek Round 3: Zzvkgrogk, Alien-crabs

Round 2

Fortitude Save v DC 14: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (15) + 12 = 27

Chaance shrugs off the ray's brunt, though she's found new respect for the neh-thalggu. She fires back, then backs off a little, uninterested in drawing the attention of the other two crabs in the room.

Looking over her shoulder while firing, Chaance addresses Rhoreen. "Thank you for that. It feels promising, should the creature strike out magically again."

Einior...: 1d20 + 17 + 4 - 2 + 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (2) + 17 + 4 - 2 + 2 - 2 - 3 = 18 for 1d8 + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (6) + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 = 19 piercing, magical damage, including Roo and Favored Enemy, and yeah Sickened

Einior...: 1d20 + 12 + 4 - 2 + 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (16) + 12 + 4 - 2 + 2 - 2 - 3 = 27 for 1d8 + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 = 16 piercing, magical damage, including Roo and Favored Enemy, and yeah Sickened

Einior...: 1d20 + 17 + 4 - 2 + 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (10) + 17 + 4 - 2 + 2 - 2 - 3 = 26 for 1d8 + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (4) + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 = 17 piercing, magical damage, including Roo and Favored Enemy, and yeah Sickened

Zzvkgrogk steps forward and takes on Red.

rtchrtchrtchrtchrtchrtch!
BlindingLaser++: 1d20 + 17 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 17 - 2 + 2 = 34 Touch, -DeadlyAim, Rūha
for Damage: 1d6 + 5d6 + 4 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + (1, 1, 4, 6, 3) + 4 + 6 + 2 = 30 Zzvkgrogk Special, Deadly Aim, Fire, Rūha

LaserPistol+: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 12 - 2 + 2 = 16 Touch, -DeadlyAim, Rūha
for Damage: 1d6 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 6 + 2 = 11 Deadly Aim, Fire, Rūha

Fort Save vs DC 18 or be blinded by one minute, creatures in the splash area that fail their saves against the bomb are dazzled for 1 minute. This is a light effect.

Despite the sucked strength, Chaance puts two more arrows on the Neh-Thalggu, which is enough to seal its doom.

Zzvkgrogk goes for the other one, discharging a powerful flashy shot that burns the skin of the alien who manages to dodge the second attack.
Fort DC 18: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23

The Neh-Thalggu responds with a bolt of acid.
Acid arrow (touch): 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14
Continuous acid damage: 2d4 ⇒ (4, 3) = 7
But the ratfolk just jumps away avoiding the acid!

The last one decides to assault Chaance's wits this time.
Will DC 16 vs hold person

"আপনি মনে করেন আপনি জিতেছেন, কিন্তু প্রতিটি তীর, প্রতিটি শট শুধুমাত্র আমরা পরিবেশন করা শূন্যতাকে ফিড করে।" one says while the other shouts at you "শীঘ্রই, আপনার মন আমাদের হবে, এবং আপনার গোপনীয়তা অভিশপ্তদের কোরাসে যোগদান করবে।"

Green: 119 damage, unconscious, dying
Red: 65 damage
Chaance: sickened, -3 Str
Hyrsek: 16 damage
Rūha: 2 damage
Yambul: 2 damage, barkskin 84 min
Zzvkgrogk: fly 2 min, barkskin 84 min, heightened awareness 83 min and investigative mind 83 min, mutagen (+4 Dex, 2 Wis) 83 min
Round 3: Chaance, Yambul, Rūha, Rhoreen, Hyrsek Round 4: Zzvkgrogk, Alien-crabs

Yambul studies and targets blue, since he might not have a clear shot at read, before unleashing another volley in its direction to soften it up for the others.

Longbow: 1d20 + 13 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 13 + 5 = 22 (studied, advice)
damage: 1d8 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 5 = 14 (studied, advice)

Longbow: 1d20 + 8 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 8 + 5 = 14 (studied, advice)
damage: 1d8 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 7 + 5 = 13 (studied, advice)

He looks frustrated at his bow and vows to practice more.

Rūha maintains her Advice, then focuses once more on her connection to the future to fire a pair of laser beams from her extended hand at the blue neh-thallgu. She also responds in Aklo "I acknowledge your philosophy, but I strongly doubt its veracity. Especially the part about arrows feeding the void. Seems unlikely."

Scorching Ray: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30 Damage (F): 4d6 + 2 ⇒ (3, 1, 3, 1) + 2 = 10
Scorching Ray: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (11) + 12 = 23 Damage (F): 4d6 + 2 ⇒ (6, 2, 4, 6) + 2 = 20

Round 3

Will Save v DC 16: 1d20 + 10 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 10 + 4 = 16 Mind-Affecting
Re-Rhorll: 1d20 + 10 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 10 + 4 = 16 Woof

Chaance manages, barely, to remain active in the confrontation. She feels something plying her mind, and can't help but feel anger towards... Maukui. Something alien like this, trying to overrule her senses, her life, and the elfdroid defends herself and the others.

Einior...: 1d20 + 17 + 2 + 4 - 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (14) + 17 + 2 + 4 - 2 - 2 - 3 = 30 for 1d8 + 3 + 2 + 4 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (4) + 3 + 2 + 4 + 6 - 2 = 17 piercing, magical damage including Roo and Favored Enemy, and Sickened

Einior...: 1d20 + 12 + 2 + 4 - 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (5) + 12 + 2 + 4 - 2 - 2 - 3 = 16 for 1d8 + 3 + 2 + 4 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 2 + 4 + 6 - 2 = 18 piercing, magical damage including Roo and Favored Enemy, and Sickened

Einior...: 1d20 + 17 + 2 + 4 - 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (19) + 17 + 2 + 4 - 2 - 2 - 3 = 35 for 1d8 + 3 + 2 + 4 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 2 + 4 + 6 - 2 = 18 piercing, magical damage including Roo and Favored Enemy, and Sickened

"They speak of a void they serve, and the inevitability that our minds, our consciousness, will join some collective echo. A hivemind beyond the Veil..."

Round 3

Rhoreen can’t exactly tell if her mercurial energies helped Chaance this round, but feels that it might have opened up something somehow. She focuses the same energy on Zzvkgrogk, then renews the effect on both…extending the time it will bless each.

At Chaance, Zzvkgrogk:

Skymetal's Onus: The subject of this onus is infused with the unquantifiable nature of skymetal. The target can choose one attack or one saving throw during the next 2 rounds, it may roll twice and take the better result (choose before rolling). 42/50.

Yambul's arrows fly through the air, but only one finds its mark, embedding itself in the yet unharmed creature's form.

As the alien creature struggles to maintain its composure, Rūha steps forward, calmly extending a hand towards it. With a sharp retort, twin beams of searing energy shoot from her palm. Both rays connect, scorching the blue neh-thalggu and burning through its flesh.

Chaance's resolve results unshakable. She deftly nocks three arrows and releases them in rapid succession, two finding their mark, burying themselves deep into the already injured red neh-thalggu.

Rhoreen further bolsters the odds on the party's side, empowering this time Zzvkgrogk.

Hyrsek shots on the same creature as Yambul.
Longbow+advice+st+advice: 1d20 + 18 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 18 + 3 + 2 = 34
P damage+st+advice: 1d8 + 3 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 3 + 3 + 2 = 15

Longbow+advice+st+advice: 1d20 + 13 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 13 + 3 + 2 = 24
P damage+st+advice: 1d8 + 3 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 3 + 3 + 2 = 14

Longbow+advice+st+advice: 1d20 + 8 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 8 + 3 + 2 = 15
P damage+st+advice: 1d8 + 3 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 3 + 2 = 13
And two of the arrows also find their mark!

Zzvkgrogk does something heroic!

Seeing their magic is stubbornly being ignored, the two brain collectors descend upon Rūha offering a clasp of their mouths.
Blue bite: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (4) + 13 = 171d8 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11
Red bite: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (5) + 13 = 181d8 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15
But the Kasatha is ready and easily dodges the attacks!

Red: 65 damage, considerably wounded
Blue: 81 damage, badly wounded
Chaance: sickened, -3 Str
Hyrsek: 16 damage
Rūha: 2 damage
Yambul: 2 damage, barkskin 84 min
Zzvkgrogk: fly 2 min, barkskin 84 min, heightened awareness 83 min and investigative mind 83 min, mutagen (+4 Dex, 2 Wis) 83 min
Round 4: Chaance, Yambul, Rūha, Rhoreen, Hyrsek Round 4: Zzvkgrogk (x2), Alien-crabs

Round 4

Rhoreen renews the capricious effect on both Chaance & Zzvkgrogk…extending the time it will bless each.

At Chaance, Zzvkgrogk:

Skymetal's Onus: The subject of this onus is infused with the unquantifiable nature of skymetal. The target can choose one attack or one saving throw during the next 2 rounds, it may roll twice and take the better result (choose before rolling). 42/50.

*1:
Not sure when anyone/thing on the map moved, Zzvkgrok will 5 foot step (possibly twice) to get a clear shot if is possible to do so while still staying out of Bug melee attack.

Zzvkgrogk uses Rhoreen’s attack gift on the second shot after a rapid reload.

"Wowowoo! Thanks Calliope!"

rtchrtchrtchrtchrtchrtch!
Laser++: 1d20 + 17 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 17 - 2 + 2 = 23 Touch, -DeadlyAim, Rūha
for Damage: 1d6 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 4 + 2 + 2 = 13 Deadly Aim, Fire, Rūha

schiiishck!
LaserPistol+: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 12 - 2 + 2 = 15 Touch, -DeadlyAim, Rūha
for Damage: 1d6 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 6 + 2 = 13 Deadly Aim, Fire, Rūha

LaserPistol+: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 12 - 2 + 2 = 20 Touch, -DeadlyAim, Rūha
for Damage: 1d6 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 6 + 2 = 10 Deadly Aim, Fire, Rūha

—-------------------------------------------
*2
(Ditto)

"Thanks again, Calliope!"

rtchrtchrtchrtchrtchrtch!
Laser++: 1d20 + 17 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 17 - 2 + 2 = 34 Touch, -DeadlyAim, Rūha
for Damage: 1d6 + 4 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 4 + 2 + 2 = 11 Deadly Aim, Fire, Rūha

LaserPistol+: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 12 - 2 + 2 = 28 Touch, -DeadlyAim, Rūha
for Damage: 1d6 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 6 + 2 = 9 Deadly Aim, Fire, Rūha

LaserPistol+: 1d20 + 12 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 12 - 2 + 2 = 21 Touch, -DeadlyAim, Rūha
for Damage: 1d6 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 6 + 2 = 14 Deadly Aim, Fire, Rūha

Yambul studies red now that red is more closer. As he does not have precise shot, and they are in melee with Rüha, I took the -4 penalty on my shots.

Longbow: 1d20 + 13 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 13 + 1 = 24 (studied, advice, into combat)
damage: 1d8 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 5 = 14 (studied, advice)

Longbow: 1d20 + 8 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 8 + 1 = 26 (studied, advice, into combat)
damage: 1d8 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 7 + 5 = 17 (studied, advice)

Rūha steps back carefully to give the rest of the party a clear shot at the two remaining monstrosities, then sends a pair of additional laser beams at whichever foe is still standing (or floating, as it were).

Scorching Ray: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (8) + 12 = 20 Damage (F): 4d6 + 2 ⇒ (2, 3, 3, 1) + 2 = 11
Scorching Ray: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30 Damage (F): 4d6 + 2 ⇒ (5, 2, 5, 6) + 2 = 20

Advice still rolling.

Round 4

Chaance feels some relief no longer receiving the attentions of the remaining neh-thalggu. "They've grown quiet. They sense their impending silence." She tires a bit, so slows her pace, her stomach still reeling from the stench. She targets the closer of the two crabs.

Einior...: 1d20 + 17 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (7) + 17 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 3 = 25 for 1d8 + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 = 18 piercing, magical damage, including Roo and Favored Enemy, and Sickened

Einior...: 1d20 + 12 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 3 ⇒ (14) + 12 + 4 + 2 - 2 - 3 = 27 for 1d8 + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (8) + 3 + 4 + 2 + 6 - 2 = 21 piercing, magical damage, including Roo and Favored Enemy, and Sickened

Rhoreen extends her capricious effect which Zzvkgrogk profits to blast down the red alien for good!

Yambul, Rūha and Chaance focus their firepower on the remaining Neh-Thalggu, bringing it quickly down before it can cause more issues to the group.

Combat is over!

Red: 122 damage, dead
Blue: 112 damage, dead
Chaance: sickened, -3 Str
Hyrsek: 16 damage
Rūha: 2 damage
Yambul: 2 damage, barkskin 84 min
Zzvkgrogk: fly 2 min, barkskin 84 min, heightened awareness 83 min and investigative mind 83 min, mutagen (+4 Dex, 2 Wis) 83 min
Round 4: Chaance, Yambul, Rūha, Rhoreen, Hyrsek Round 4: Zzvkgrogk (x2), Alien-crabs

There is nothing left back by these creatures, except by the humanoid brains on their backs.

A single exit to the northwest, with the same living fibers seems the only way forward.

Yambul grins with the creatures’ demise. ”Well they were flexible, spells and melee, though clearly their spells were tougher. Well done everyone, well done.”

For the lightning burns, he’ll take a couple potions of cure light wounds that he keeps meaning to use up.
CLW x2: 2d8 + 2 ⇒ (7, 3) + 2 = 12

Then a little salve from the wand.
CLW x2: 2d8 + 2 ⇒ (7, 8) + 2 = 17

He'll then put his bow away and pick up his chainsaw. Again he fires it up! When everyone has healed up and is ready to go, he'll move up to the doorway and embiggen it.

Chaance picks up her blade, and slowly makes her way to a vantage over the single doorway ahead. This time, she does not slice through herself, nocking an arrow instead, and catching her breath.

”That was – that was –” a dancing giddy Zzvkgrogk struggles to find words, ’-- I don’t quite have –" he cuts himself off by suddenly exclaiming, "I KNOW! – It was like I was perpetually in the ZONE! YEEaaaah!!! Brilliant!! More of that please, Calliope!”

He inspects the brains in their brain jars on the Bugcrab's back.
Are they still working brains? Are they hardwired in there?

know Engineering: 1d20 + 18 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 18 + 2 = 34

Zzvkgrogk dispenses with the healing.
Heal: 3d8 + 3 ⇒ (4, 3, 6) + 3 = 16

"Hyrsek, ' ya doin' O.K.?" he asks, holding the wand aloft and rocking it back and forth between his fingers.

He flies to back up Chaance.

"Nice shooting back there. I didn't notice that the stench affected you that way right away. I wish I had a fresh nanite hypogun for you, Chaance. Unfortunately this one," he points to the timeworn brown hypogun in his satchel, " took up more than half the charges that were left after Rūha -- it's the way it works, and I can't recharge it. There's only a few charges left -- only good for a bit of healing."

Rhoreen follows along, taking her time to gander around (with Detect Magic) as others heal and ready.

”That was – that was –” a dancing giddy Zzvkgrogk struggles to find words, ’-- I don’t quite have –" he cuts himself off by suddenly exclaiming, "I KNOW! – It was like I was perpetually in the ZONE! YEEaaaah!!! Brilliant!! More of that please, Calliope!”

"More of that? Oh, that was nothing, really. I could almost do that every day, but sometimes not. And I'll want to spread it around, so that others get to feel what it's like to be as amazing as me all the time," she smugs easily. "But thank you for mentioning it."

She looks over the brains.

"Do you think there are any good brains amongst these? And might we have a good use for them?" Rhoreen asks, wondering who might want an upgrade.

Rūha takes a few taps of the wand herself.

CLW x3: 3d8 + 3 ⇒ (5, 4, 4) + 3 = 16 Back to full

"We're lucky they weren't too tactical with their magic. That could have gone far worse than it did." She checks to see how the rest are holding up before furrowing her brow at Rhor's rather light-hearted comment "I think these were not natively the neh'thallgu's brains, but ones they captured. I only hope their owners were spared any consciousness through this horror."

She retrieves her autograpnel and joins Yambul at the next aperture.

Zzvkgrogk inspects the brain jars, he finds out they are quickly dying without the alien to sustain them, but probably they can still be used to resurrect whomever was the owner if you would wish so.

Rhoreen finds no relevant magic auras as she scans the area while the others heal up "That feels pretty awesome new" Hyrsek thanks the ratfolk for the wounds patching.

With the chainsaw powered up once again, Yambul cuts through the opening easily enough.

L8. The Shipmind
The smell in this humid chamber still holds the foul stink of rot, but a cloyingly sweet scent mingles with it. To the southwest, the ceiling rises from its initial ten feet to nearly twenty-five feet, where what appears to be an immense iron and glass cauldron hangs from coils of metal and muscle chains and cords. The inside of the cauldron churns with fluid, shaking against its restraints.

The yellowy viscous liquid in the cauldron bubbles while the tank is suspended by strangely organic cables from the ceiling. Wisps of white gas occasionally escape the roiling fluid.

As you approach to bubbling tank, a booming telepathic voice assaults your brains Who dares tread upon my tomb of flesh and decay? Why do you come into my presence like this?

Chaance: sickened, -3 Str (few minutes penalty)
Hyrsek: 0 damage
Rūha: 0 damage
Yambul: barkskin 84 min
Zzvkgrogk: fly 2 min, barkskin 84 min, heightened awareness 83 min and investigative mind 83 min, mutagen (+4 Dex, 2 Wis) 83 min

"Nice shooting back there. I didn't notice that the stench affected you that way right away. I wish I had a fresh nanite hypogun for you, Chaance. Unfortunately this one took up more than half the charges that were left after Rūha -- it's the way it works, and I can't recharge it. There's only a few charges left -- only good for a bit of healing."

"I appreciate your concern, Zzvkgrogk. I think I will regain myself fully only when we have abandoned this place."

Knowledge(Dungeoneering) v DC 23: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (19) + 14 = 33

No sooner are those words loosed from her lips does Chaance fail to find new ones to describe what she's seeing. Then she hears its voice.

"Who dares tread upon my tomb of flesh and decay? Why do you come into my presence like this?"

She lets her eyes take it all in. The connections, the fluids, and what the ooze means when it describes its own ship as a tomb.

It's dying.

It takes what little intestinal fortitude she still has to answer. "We are sorry. We are seekers of knowledge, and were eager to learn more of this ship's technology. We did not know that you were still alive. You are the shipmind? May we speak with you? You can feel the surrounds, may understand what has traveled this region of the Scar of the Spider. Would you share your knowledge with us?"

Yambul doesn't approach with his spinning chainsaw, by way of hanging back. He wonders what the ooze will respond with though - he's never seen an intelligent ooze before.

1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 12 + 2 = 19 Dungeoneering

Rhoreen looks at Chaance, trying to figure out what is going on. She lets Chaance speak, hoping there is some insight to be gained.

"Who dares tread upon my tomb of flesh and decay? Why do you come into my presence like this?"

KnowDungeon: 1d20 + 10 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 10 + 2 = 13 Zzvkgrogk looks at Rhoreen and shrugs.

Zzvkgrogk peers down at his feet swaying in the air this way and that as he flits about on the air like a limbed, winged hacky sack. "Not me. Haven’t trod on you yet. And I will ask ‘who is it who barges into my mind with their thoughts without so much as a by-your-leave?’, but I’ll let it slide for now, seeing as you don’t have a mouth anymore. We’re here to kill your overlords. Oh, look," he says pointing to the previous chamber, "– we did that already. Are there any more?”

You seek knowledge? In this tomb of rotting flesh, knowledge has decayed alongside the walls that imprison me the voice booms again in your minds, its tone a twisted mix of bitterness and melancholy Yes, I am the shipmind, or what remains of it. I have witnessed the vastness of the cosmos and this is the best knowledge I can share with you now that I see the truth...

Life is but a slow march to the grave the fluid within the cauldron churns violently as the shipmind let's the words sink in before continuing You come with chainsaws and technology, wielding the tools of my destruction, yet you seek my counsel?

Diplomacy anyone?

"I'm not sure what knowledge we seek in particular, but I imagine you have some stories to tell - and frankly you look a little pathetic trapped there, slowly dying. It would be cruel to attack you in your current state."

"Is there anything we can do to aid you? I mean, we don't have the technology to fix the ship, but maybe some ice chips or something?"

Yambul is at a loss what to do for the pitiable creature. He looks to the others for useful questions. "You should answer Zzvkgrogk here though - are there more creatures on board?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (3) + 14 = 17

Meh.

Yambul grips his chainsaw, unsure how his silky words might land on such a strange ooze.

1d20 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (14) + 1 - 2 = 13 Diplomacy to Aid (pride)

”Listen here, we’re trying to help. We can help you and you can help us, or you can sit in your rotting flesh coffin,” Rhoreen explains, annoyed but trying to help.

"Hey, look. You're one of us -- an organic. We just want to punish your overlords and leave you in peace."

Diplo (Aid): 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 = 17

Rūha listens from the back, knowing that she's not particularly diplomatic. Chaance's approach seems sensible - learn whatever this strange being might be able to share, so long as they remain cordial. And whether they remain cordial seems very up in the air right now.

Still, as her friends offer their pleas she can't help but add "If we sought your destruction, we would have done so already. Stuck there as you are, surely you can see the sense in exchanging some stories at least - us sharing stories of Golarion beyond the Scar, and you telling us of the Dominion's history here both recent and not so recent?"

Share stories? Aid? Such hollow words! the voice snarls, its tone laced with bitterness and fury after Yambul's description of his state I am the decaying truth, the rot that consumes all life! The Dominion—their betrayal, their abandonment—has shown me the true nature of existence. We are all nothing but fodder for the grave, our flesh meant to wither, our minds destined to crumble into madness!

The fluid within the cauldron bubbles furiously, the cauldron itself straining against its restraints as the shipmind's rage intensifies You seek my counsel? My knowledge? Know this, little fleshlings: you tread upon the corpse of a once-great being, The-Stars-Whisper, a vessel of the stars reduced to this festering tomb by the very masters you wish to defy. The Dominion—they are parasites, feeding on the lifeblood of all that is, draining the cosmos of its vitality, and leaving behind only decay. And they came here for that ship and will then consume your world as they have consumed thousands others before!

Its voice rises, a crescendo of hatred and despair I have seen the end that awaits us all! All life marches towards its inevitable decay, to the grave that waits patiently with open arms. But it is in this decay that we find the truth—the Dominion is not above this fate. They too shall rot, their power eroded, their empire reduced to dust! But before that end comes, I shall see them suffer. I shall see them destroyed!

The shipmind's voice changes as Rhoreen and Zzvkgrogk add context to Yambul's words Perhaps... perhaps there is a purpose yet in my existence. If you truly seek to bring down the Dominion, there are weapons that may aid you in your quest. In exchange, I ask only that you avenge me. Destroy those who abandoned me to rot in this decaying husk. Let my end be the beginning of their downfall

As the shipmind says this, the northeastern door opens into what seems some type of stash This is what they left when they abandoned me. The scent glands in particular will be very useful, if you want to remove that fleshling scent of yours. Otherwise their hive wall observers will quickly render notice of your approach to Dweller-In-Dark-Places

It then directs its attention to Zzvkgrogk's earlier question As for others on this ship, they left a squad of Negh-Thalggus to observe and document my decay and death. That is how they act the Dominion. But I guess you already dealt with them if you are here.

”Of course we will avenge you,” Rhoreen agrees. ”We’re going to dance on their empty lightless corpses and then plant flowers and rainbows on their graves so their failure is a continual reminder of the joy of life.”

”Tell us more about who and what they are. And how we might be better prepared to defeat them. What weaknesses do they have? And what does the de-scenting process entail?”

1d20 + 21 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 21 + 2 = 35 Know (Planes/Local/Arcana/Engineering, -9 Dungeoneering)

"Thank you for your gifts oh, ah, great one. We appreciate the aid, for we are certainly going to vanquish them. Or at least try. But yeah, they track by scent? I guess that's not too weird really. I mean, my nose sucks, but I understand the concept you know?"

He'll, out of respect, shut off his chainsaw and sheath it as he collects the gifts.

Once he has everything offered quietly loaded up, he'll thank the great ooze again and keep listening to the conversation.

"But before that end comes, I shall see them suffer. I shall see them destroyed!"

Chaance does her best to understand the dying mind of the shipmind. She thinks to herself, not to the ooze. How on earth would you accomplish that? You're withering away in this wreckage, abandoned, left behind. Impotent.

When she abandons the thought, she asks what she can of such an alien being. "Was The-Stars-Whisper the only ship to visit Golarion? Did you have companion shipminds who traveled with you?" She almost feels sorry for the entity, its singular purpose to control a ship for the Dominion. She remembers herself, remembers something faintly on the memory swirls about these things, and decides that she can ask her questions within sight lines of the creature in the vat, and listen to its answers from the comfort of a wall blocking it from her own sight.