Somehow, [Nemesis] has returned.
Worry not everyone, for I have arrived!
Swirly was wrung dry trying to desperately salvage the botched ritual. With his defeat and potential permanent demise in the Material Plane imminent, Swirly was flushed away from this world.
With his victims rescued, and other witnesses to the narrowly averted devastation of his whirlpools, the party's legend only grows.
But that matter is settled and done, and there are no emergencies at present. The adventurers are at peace--for at least a few months.
But where are they now?
Marine Masquerade Marinelle walked along the well-worn roads leading to Absalom, the City at the Centre of the World. After several months on the road, during which absolutely nothing of note happened, she was looking forward to going to somewhere more exciting where she could seek out more noble quests of high adventure. Plus, getting to meet her party again was a neat plus.
The quiet journey towards Absalom gave her time to think. About her last adventure and the shame of falling under the dastardly Swirly’s spell as well as the euphoria of their triumph over him. About her party, the scholarly Dr Lazarus, the sociable Jayma and the bombastic Callistro the Magnificent. And, more importantly, how she was going to make it into Absalom without getting turned away. She didn’t have the backing of the Circus of Wayward Wonders to get her in this time. Sure, the local centaur tribes were troublesome at the best of times – but that didn’t mean that she was looking for trouble! "Why, I don’t even look like the average centaur – my wide, yellow-coloured pupils and fine clothing clearly distinguish me!" she thought to herself.
After several hours of talking with the First Guard and assuring them that she wasn’t here to cause trouble, she finally made it through the city gates and into Absalom proper. Marine joined the crowd of adventurers swarming into the City. The crowded city streets were difficult to navigate through, especially for a person of her size. Contorting her body through the narrow streets and gaps, Marine longingly looked up to the sky to see all the pedestrians magical enough to take flight and avoid getting stuck in the crowd. As a certain purple-and-white robed magician rode a floating disc past her, Marine thought to herself, “By Calistria, I really wish I could fly.”
Eventually, Marine made it to her usual lodging in Absalom – the Gutless Griffon. After making her way past the intimidating bouncer and unpacking her belongings in the room provided to her by the innkeeper, she realised that she was running late for her dinner date with the party. Loud clanking could be heard from her room as she quickly rushed to remove her armour and put on her fine clothing. Scanning over her belongings, she took with her her alchemical kit (containing the drinks she intended to bring along) and her gleaming Aldori Sword, still glowing with Astral energy. As she quickly squeezed her way down stairs made for creatures of medium size, she tossed a silver coin to the innkeeper and another silver coin to the performers, (was that the Billy Bardy and a sprite dancer?), she hoofed it over to the Docks where the restaurant was located.
After a bit of travel, Marine found herself standing in front of the beautiful silver frontage of the Mithril Chef. Scanning through a dozen windows, Marine tried to look around for the rest of her party. “I really hope they remembered to book a large dining room…” She thought to herself. After what felt like an eternity of searching, Marine ran out of patience. She reached out her hand and quickly pushed open the door, striding in bombastically (while trying to avoid hitting her head on the doorframe). She hoped that by making a grand entrance, the party would see her and call her over to their table.
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After their final battle against Swirly the Spiral Summoner and his minions, Jayma was happy to return to her beloved Absalom where she once again took possession of her cozy little apartment in the Arbor Ward neighborhood of the Ivy District. The illusion and protective rituals she had placed on the apartment had held firm during her long absence and it was just a small matter of a little tidying-up magic to return it to its former glory.
Her life quickly fell back into its old routines. She rekindled her friendship with Alain Always, master thespian and head of the Street Performers and Actors’ Guild, and rejoined his troupe at the Ivy Playhouse. She had since played supporting roles in some of Alain's productions to generally good reviews. She hoped to someday get the lead role in a production, but unfortunately, Emma Sadik was still the star of the theater and usually got the plum parts.
Jayma also restarted her side business using her extensive genealogical (and gossip) skills to secretly research family trees for some of the most important personages of the city. She was known for her accuracy and strict discretion, and was thus not wanting for work. She also wrote weekly articles under a nom de plume for the Sennight Star covering the theater scene in detail and always managing to slip in some juicy bit of gossip to pique her readers' attentions. After all, keeping up with the latest fashions and frequenting the best establishments in Absalom was not an inexpensive pastime, and the loot she'd collected from her recently completed adventures had only gone so far.
So it was with a little trepidation that she received word that her old colleagues wanted to have a get together while they were in town. Some ancestral fey sense told her that no good would come of such a meeting and that it would only be a matter of time before her comfortable life as a social butterfly in the big city was put on hold again by another adventure. She messaged the Mithril Chef and reserved one of their private rooms. She specifically asked for the larger one knowing that Marine would need the extra room.
She almost stood the others up in the hopes that they would leave her alone to her comfortable life, but in the end decided otherwise. Jayma was quite curious as to what the others had been up to in the months since they parted ways. Plus, she'd heard that the head chef, Claudette Butterfoot, had recently revamped the menu with some incredible new dishes that were the talk of the town.
Arriving fashionably late, she sees Marine in the distance looking through the windows of the restaurant. Before Jayma can call out to her, the centaur strides into the Mithril Chef. "I see nothing much has changed with Marine. Still as impetuous as always."
Upon entering the restaurant, the Galtan maître d' recognizes her immediately and rushes up to greet her unctuously. "Jaymaaa! Un plaisir as always for you to honneur our humble établissement with your exaltéd présence." Jayma pats him on the arm and puts on her best socialite persona. "Oh, Auguste, you are too kind. It has been far too long since I was last here. I hope Claudette was not too upset by my absence." Auguste waves away her faux concern as he leads Jayma to the private room she'd reserved. "Now that you have retourné, Madame Claudette's happiness knows no bounds. She told me in person that she cannot wait to hear what you think of the new menu." It was Jayma's turn to wave away Auguste's remark. "I am certain that it will be another tour de force. I look forward to an excellent meal."
Arriving at the door to the private dining room, August lowers his voice. "Your collègues are already here. Your friend Marine made quite the entrance." He then opens the door for Jayma, and she steps through.
With a smile and slight bow of her head, she greets her fellow guests. "Welcome, my good friends. I hope I did not keep you waiting overmuch. Now that I have arrived, the party may begin." She makes her way to her seat. Once seated, leans forward eagerly. "Now tell me everything. What excitement have you all been up to since we last parted?"
It was just a dream. Perhaps there's no reason to even mention it.
But he did sleep poorly because of it.
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After the defeat of the dastardly fey summoner, Callistro decided to take a long and wandering route back to Absalom. This way he could make sure to make appearances in all of his favourite theatres and meet the demands of his adoring public.
In the Palace of Voices in Caliphas he took on the role of a grim disgraced nobleman, who was transformed into a wolf and danced with a dozen white swans. At the Kithrodian Academy of Opparra he played the role of the Hand of the Inheritor before Grand Princess Eutropia, where he was tortured to death by Baphomet and in the Dancing Dunes in Eto he took on the role of Nethys in his epic confrontation with the King of Biting Ants.
However, eventually, as always happens, his wanderings brought him back to Absalom. The City at the Centre of the World always drew him back. There was something vital, alive and compelling about the place and as he lounged against the railing of the ship he breathed in the sights and the smells. Of course, never one to miss an entrance as the ship pulls into the dock he tosses his passage and fee to the waiting customs official, transforms himself into a magnificent, glittering green dragon and sails over the docks to land on the balcony of the small apartment he keeps on the edge of the Coins district.
Reassembling himself his slips in through the window and checks all is still where it should be. Seeing the place well maintained he quickly changes from his travelling clothes to something more suitable before heading out to renew old acquaintances.
When he turns up at the Mithril Chef it is with a pair of gorgeous young things, one on each arm. The man on his left is a dark skinned Osirian man with chiselled features, while the woman on his right is a green eyed Tien beauty. Extricating himself from the two of them at the door he murmurs, Now, now my dears, there will be plenty of time for us to enjoy ourselves later. This evening brings other demands but I am home now so we will have lots of time to ourselves. Get on with you and enjoy yourselves.. He gives each of them a passionate kiss and sends them on their way.
Striding into the restaurant he strikes a pose as he thrusts the door open, Welcome back all, I have arrived, we can get the party started now!
On seeing that none of his friends have yet arrived he slumps a little, rather crestfallen. Typical he mutters, I bet Jayma told me the wrong time so she could upstage me. Jealousy is so unattractive. He quickly heads inside to their private dining room and orders drinks and entree's, making sure to order things everyone enjoys.
As Marine is ushered through the restaurant into a spacious room, she sees the familiar visage of the shape-shifting Calistro the Magnificent. Smiling widely, she moves to give the man a hug.
"Hail to the Magnificent One! I hope your travels have been eventful and fruitful, Callistro!" She scans the table and finds her favourite entree, salmon and cheese crackers. "Thanks Callistro! You're always so thoughtful. Here, have a drink on me." Marine takes out a tankard of Bravo's Brew, made for the hands of a large creature, and hands it over to Callistro. She continues to chat with Callistro over mouthfuls of salmon and cheese crackers.
When Jayma enters the room, Marine gets up from her grazing position and rushes to Jayma. She gives Jayma a bone-crushing hug, lifting the gnome at least a few inches off the floor as she does so.
"Jayyyyma! So good to see you again! I thought you'd stand us up but you didn't and life was so boring without you and ..." Marine realises that she's holding Jayma in an uncomfortable position and sets her down. She passes herself and Jayma large tankards of brew before continuing.
"To answer your question, Jayma...The last few months have been comprised of me trying and failing to find a noble quest of high adventure." Marine starts.
"I heard on the grapevine that the town of Otari was haunted by some strange lights. But when I arrived to save the day, not only was the entire lighthouse collapsed into the ground, I couldn't even fit into what was left of the vaults. Nothing good came out of my visit to that sleepy town." She takes a mouthful of her Bravo's Brew before continuing.
"Then I tried to hang out with the local centaurs, but they called me a 'pansy who was softened by civilisation'. So I nicked some of their clothes and left in a hurry." She takes another swig of her brew.
"Speaking of things getting here in a hurry, I wonder where the good doctor is? He usually isn't this late to arrive. I hope he's doing alright - have you all seem him recently?"
In the faculty housing at the University of Osirion, renowned forensics professor, Dr. Thurston Lazarus, III woke from a fitful sleep. He grumbled and checked the time. Only an hour from when he last checked. Still hours before daylight. He should just give up, but the stubborn Doctor refused to let the nightmares best him. He poured himself a splash of brandy to take the edge off.
The tall elf tried again. Closing his eyes, the vivid dreams again took hold, as before he experienced disturbing visions of deserts and caverns. With sweat beading on his forehead, he bolted upright. Urgently retrieving his writing pad, he sketched some drawings with a single caption: "The Choke." Somehow, this was important.
He sighed, "Visions: 1. The Doctor: 0." Even though, he was feeling fatigued, he grumbled "Sleep is overrated." He gave up the farce and decided to get an early start to Absalom. He mused, "It will be a treat to see my colleagues. We made quite the team."
Confirming his TAs would be covering his classes, the forensic professor shoved a few more books in his bag and took the first ferry across the Inner Sea to Isle of Kortos. Making his way through Absalom, he passed by the usual places. Passing by the Gutless Griffin, he heard Billy singing tales of the magic of Harrow cards. The bard always put on a good show, but no time for that today.
He arrived at the newly refurbished Mithril Chef. As he was the first to arrive, he left their private room to speak to Marcel, the sommelier. The chap recognized him immediately, "Always a pleasure, Dr. Lazarus. I know you're partial to your Ustalov Brandy, but I have some fine Elvin wine imported from Kyonin." Lazarus looked skeptical, "It's not that filth from 4721." Marcel quickly waved him off, "Oh no, Sir. This is a pre-revolution vintage. Even a man with your discerning palate will appreciate the nose, less pretentious than most from that year." Lazarus raised an eyebrow, keen to try it.
Upon returning to the private room, he finds everyone has already gathered. "Greetings all. Marcel will be taking care of our alcohol needs with a surprise vintage you're all sure to enjoy."
After the pleasantries, with a rare moment of privacy, Lazarus displays his notebook. "I've been having disturbing dreams. Of this place. It's known as The Choke.
Dr. Lazarus recognizes the mountains as the Shining Mountains in Osirion’s Scorpion Coast. Considering the name "The Choke" while contextualizing it with the Scorpion Coast and the Shining Mountains he recognizes it as a regional name for a cave entrance in the western Shining Mountains—a cave once hidden by a waterfall that in turn led into a river that emptied into the River Sphinx to the west. He knows that the area around the Choke has been claimed by a group of desert giant bandits who overwhelmed and subjugated the kholos who dwelt in the territory before them.
Numerous tunnels riddle the Singing Angel mountain, including the complex known as the Choke. The wind that blows through the lower caverns creates a constant mournful dirge that never quite fades--hence the name.
And then suddenly... nothing happens.
Jayma brushes herself off when Marine finally releases her. She smiles up at the centaur with genuine affection. "Ah, Marine. I see your impetuous ways remain unchanged. I wouldn't have it any other way."
She then turns to Callistro and raises an eyebrow. "I take it those two beautiful creatures I spied at the bar on my way in are yours, no? I see your tastes in companions remains similarly unchanged." A knowing smile suggests that she's teasing her fellow thespian. Her eyes then light up with excitement as a thought occurs to her. "You must tell me all about the exciting places you've been playing. I've heard good things about your performances through the theatrical grapevine, but unfortunately few details. Is the Grand Princess really as beautiful as they say?"
When Dr. Lazarus returns from his little tête-à-tête with Marcel, Jayma frowns prettily in mild concern. "Why, Doctor, you look positively wan! Have you not been sleeping well? Maybe Marine can prepare some concoction to help you rest. Oh! Never mind. I see you've already taken care of our libations for the evening."
Jayma's travels had taken her to Osirion many times over the years and she was particularly fond of its warm dry weather and exotic atmosphere. She had many friends among the halflings of Sothis and made a habit of wintering there with them for a month or two every year. It was during a visit to the University of Osirion many years ago that she first met Thurston. She was in the university library tracking down genealogical information for one of her clients and Thurston, a mere medical student at the time, had proven to be an invaluable if somewhat pompous help in her research. Their personalities were as different as day and night; she was a free spirit with a silver tongue who enjoyed going to parties and getting to know people; he was a pompous dyed-in-the-wool academic for whom little existed outside of his studies. They did not get along at first, but eventually Jayma managed to coax him out of his shell a little and an unlikely friendship developed between them. Several times in the subsequent decades, they had joined forces on adventures, including most recently, in their struggle against Swirly the Spiral Summoner.
So it was with some concern that she listened intently as Thurston described his disturbing dreams and what he knows of The Choke. After a dramatic pause in which nothing happens..." Jayma, her fey senses on full alert now, responds in a measured tone. "My, my! That does sound just awful for the kholos. I do hope they can overcome their difficulties with the bandits... on their own. But, I can't help wondering why you, Doctor, would be having such dreams. Have you ascertained their source yet?
Callistro accepts Marine's big hug, returning it with force! Its good to see you again you great, gallumping horse! Have you been applying your particular brand of diplomacy with your own people as well?
He happily accepts the brew, slipping it into a pocket for later and perches himself on one of the tables to chat, grazing on delicate grilled prawns skewered on thin metal spikes, segmented with roasted vegetables. He sips a strong red wine from the vines of the Jeggare estate in Cheliax, swirling the heavy bodied liquid around his mouth.
When Jayma enters he grins at Marine's welcome, She still doesnt know her own strength he calls as the little gnome gets squished. Those two are not mine, ownership is not something we have ever sought but our paths cross from time to time. He grins, Hopefully we will have plenty of time here in Absalom. Of course I will tell you about my performances, after all, that's my favourite subject, ME!
When the Doctor arrives he becomes more serious, Lazarus, you look, well, you look terrible. This Choke place sounds awful. Weird you would dream about it. Have you eve been there, know anything about it? Why would you be dreaming about it?
As the Doctor describes the Choke, Marine grows more interested and more excited.
"Doctor, this must be a sign that your destiny, no, the adventure of a lifetime is awaiting you in the Choke. We must go there at once and investigate!" She yells, raising her fist in the air with excitement. She turns to look at Jayma and Callistro.
"Both of you will be coming along too...right?"
Dr. Lazarus is enjoying his excellent meal and engaging conversation.
As Marcel passes by, Lazarus nods in his direction. "This Kyonin wine is very approachable, my good man. I particularly fancy how the notes of blackberry delicately balance the supple tannins." He savors a sip as the busy sommelier smiles and hurries on his way.
As Jayma recalls their first meeting, the Doctor nods and laughs, "Yes, yes, dear Jayma, I was much more stodgy in my youth." Sadly, he hasn't changed as much as he'd like to think.
After another glass of elven wine, his head starts to clear, and he discusses The Choke. At Jayma's and Callistro's question, he considers, "Why am I receiving these visions?" He shrugs, "As you know, the University of Osirion, where I'm gainfully employed, is in the capital city of Sothis -- just north of the Shining Mountains, and The Choke. I'm quite familiar with the area, so perhaps the visions are largely due to proximity?"
When Jayma mentions the kholos, the Doctor nods thoughtfully, "Agreed. It would be satisfying to rid the region of this bandit infestation." When Marine seems enthusiastic about another adventure, he smiles, "I'm a scientist, not big on destiny ..." he pauses and continues, "... but between these visions and our chance meeting, one could start believing." He nods, "I would very much enjoy the pleasure of your company on this investigation."
Assuming the group is agreeable, the Doctor says, "Wonderful, my friends. Shall we begin at daybreak? I must try to get a good night's rest."
Of course, it was just a dream. Maybe it doesn't mean anything at all.
But then something a little harder to ignore happens. Marine, Callistro, and Jayma, one by one, each hear a familiar voice singing mockingly in their minds. It's him.
“You thought me gone, but I yet live!
And I've one more threat to give.
Come to me, where I'll play host,
I wait at the Scorp'yon Coast.
Now come thwart me, should you be brave,
The Choke, at last, shall be your grave!”
As experienced adventurers, they recognize this telepathic message as feeling like a sending spell--which means if they focus on sending a reply, the person speaking to them should hear it.
When Marine and Thurston start getting all worked up about traipsing halfway across the world to help a bunch of murderous jumped-up hyenas, Jayma sighs. "Now, now, my dear friends, let us not allow our passions to overtake our reason. Undoubtedly, the world abounds with innumerable injustices, each clamouring for redress. Yet, we are but four in number, and thus, regrettably, some of these grievances must be endured, for we cannot right them all. Surely..."
She pauses as a familiar voice starts singing mockingly in her mind. She looks around in confusion and sees that the others have similarly fallen quiet with their eyes looking into the distance. When the moment passes, Jayma says, "Well, what an unexpected turn of events! Not only does it appear that Swirly has managed against all odds, to return, but even more astonishing, he seems to possess a measure of poetic talent." She reviews what she heard and frowns. "Though I must say, that Scorp'yon does feel rather contrived."
It was clear to her now that what she'd feared had come to pass. Her comfortable life as a socialite of Absalom was about to be put on hold again. Her days of treading the boards at the Ivy; of entertaining conversation in the best salons; of relaxing dinners in the fanciest of establishments; had come to an abrupt end.
The thought made her angry. "How dare this arrogant jester upend my comfortable existence once again." She swore that she would make him rue the day he'd decided to mess with her again.
Turning her attention back to the evil Swirly, whom she could tell was still on the line, she coldly replies...
"Oh, Swirly, you have dared return,
This time, the tide shall truly turn.
We hunt, we strike, no mercy shown,
Your final fate is writ in stone."
She then addresses the group before her. "It would seem that Marine and our esteemed Doctor were indeed correct. And so off to The Choke we must go. Not just to liberate the kholos from their bandit overlords but to rid the world of Swirly once and for all!"
As Marine suggests leaving at once Callistro looks horrified. What, leave, now, we have only just got back. We havent ever had the fish course and I for one have many different places to go. I also certainly cannot go off adventuring dressed like this. All that sand would get everywhere. I need at least a week to shop for the right desert traveller clothing and accessories. Preferably two.
Once the strange message arrives he looks even more despondent.
Swirly, oh by the bloody balls of Asmodeus no. We dealt with that miscreant once already. No-one wants to retread old ground. Anyway, what would he be doing in some stupid cave in Osirion. This has got to be some sort of prank yes? Yes? Please tell me its a prank. I certainly dont want to have to argue with a bunch of giant bandits, giants lack any sense of culture, art and style. And what the hell is a Kholo?
He drains his goblet of Chelaxian red in a single swig and promptly refills it with an air of great offence at the world.
THIS is the only one I know of.
As Swirly's words swirled around in her head, Marine considers her options. She could scream bloody murder and threats at the damned person who manipulated her so much - but that would accomplish nothing but upset her friends, the customers and herself. So, she decides to do the one thing that would upset Swirly - say nothing.
She turns to her friends and says "Well we don't have to go now...Like Calistro said, we haven't even had the fish yet. We can wait until we finish this nice meal. Jayma, can you still do that uhhh..." She makes hand movements and swooshing sounds with her mouth. "That magic thing that takes us from place to place? We might need to get to Osyrian or Osiron or however it's pronounced in a hurry. Never been there myself."
She looks at her blade longingly and addresses the two Pathfinders in the party. "I don't suppose either of you would be able to give me access to Cold Iron Blanch, would you? It would be nice to smack Swirly with something he's weak to." She turns out her pockets as she says so. "Also, I'm rather skint at the moment so could I take a loan from one of you to afford the formula?"
Jayma looks shocked at the very thought of leaving immediately. "Oh, my goodness, no. Such a thing is quite unthinkable! Were we to leave at once, dear Claudette would be most grievously wounded; she would never forgive me for so callous an abandonment. No, we must see this evening through to its proper and dignified conclusion, ensuring that all is attended to with the grace and decorum it deserves. Only after a refreshing night's rest and perchance a day or two to make the necessary preparations, could we proceed to Osirion."
When talk turns to how to get there, Jayma frowns. "Ah, dearest Marine, how I long to spirit us away to Sothis in but a heartbeat, sparing us those dreary and interminable hours upon the sea! Alas, my abilities have not yet reached such heights as to bridge so vast a distance in an instant. One day soon, I shall master the art, and farther still shall I venture with but a thought; but such wonders demand diligence, study, and time, which we do not have. Until that day arrives, I fear we must resign ourselves to the tedium of travel by ship."
Dr. Lazarus is confused at first, but the egghead eventually works it out. He sips his wine, with his pinky properly in the air, and deduces, "You all heard from Swirly himself, didn't you?" He nods knowingly, "As I suspected...."
When the group talks of teleportation and transportation, the forensics professor switches into lecture-mode. "My friends, Osirion is an easy morning boat ride from the Isle of Kortos. The capital city of Sothis is just across the narrowest portion of the Inner Sea." He continues, "I myself arrived this morning on such a vessel."
The Doctor offers, "While we're in Sothis, I'd love to show you around the University of Osirion -- one of the finest institutes of higher learning in all the Inner Sea Region. Fascinating place." He sighs, "Alas, there's probably little time for that." And continues, "The Shining Mountains are less than a 100 mile journey south along a well-traveled road that follows the River Sphinx. I'll have one of my assistants, Chauncey Gladstone, arrange a comfortable carriage for the overland journey."
As the next course is delivered, he says, "But as dear Jayma was saying, let's not let Swirly's interruption ruin this lovely meal."
Callistro seems much happier as his companions start talking about taking their time getting there. Yes, and it will give us time to acquire appropriate clothing and the like. But, travel by carriage, I hope the place has decent roads. Nothing worse than being bumped around all over the place while getting sand everywhere. Also, I still dont know what a damn Kholo is?
When Marine starts asking for a loan he grins, My dear, what have you been spending all of our wealth and riches on? Sadly I dont have enough myself to purchase a moderate blanch, even if I could convince an old colleague to make one available but I am willing to chip in. It may mean skipping out on a new outfit he says, looking a little crestfallen.
When Jayma provides the bad news that a ship trip is inevitable, Marine pouts for a bit: "Aw, boo. That's going to suck. Ships are just too claustrophobic - there's nothing to do on them!"
As Calistro bemoans the loss of spending money for clothes Marine is quick to correct him. "No, no, Calie, you won't need to skip on a new outfit. I of all people know how important it is to be dressed to impress. I just need 3 GP and access to the Pathfinder Society's alchemical recipes. If I can acquire the formula, as a woman of alchemical science I can prepare the rest myself every day. In fact - do you want to go clothes shopping after this? We can getting matching desert clothing!"
Marine's eyes light up as the Doctor mentions a comfortable carriage. "Aw, gee thanks Doctor! I don't suppose you can get one big enough to fit me in? I'll trot along or pull it if I have to."
As the party agrees to go along to Osirion, Marine raises her glass and proposes a toast. "Friends, it's time for our next great adventure. To Osirion...and beyond!"
Callistro beams as Marine explains, Excellent, then yes, I am happy to fund your purchase Marine provided you spend tomorrow shopping with me. We will visit all of the best places.
Nothing else happens to disrupt a lovely dinner.
The next morning, Dr. Lazarus wakes up more rested. Marine and Jayma, however, do not.
They each had a dream where they caught a glimpse of towering mountains surrounded by a vast desert and a vague memory of being trapped in a cavern they instinctively knew as “the Choke." Upon waking, they experienced a momentary conviction that unless they seek out “the Choke,” Swirly will someday slay them and everyone they love.
Making travel plans, at least, is simple enough. As Lazarus said, the party can journey there with relative ease. The simplest route is to travel to the city of Sothis, then head up the River Sphinx to approximately the midpoint between the cursed town of Djefet and the city of An. There, on the east bank, a seemingly unremarkable dry riverbed winds further east into the mountains. The party can use this riverbed as a trail to travel the remaining 20 or so miles into the Shining Mountains.
Around mid-day, both Callistro and Lazarus hear the telepathic message:
“You thought me gone, but I yet live!
And I've one more threat to give.
Come to me, where I'll play host,
I wait at the Scorp'yon Coast.
Now come thwart me, should you be brave,
The Choke, at last, shall be your grave!”
The morning after the dinner at the Mithril Chef, Jayma was not a happy camper. No sooner had she fallen asleep last night than a nightmare had come to her and stopped her from getting any more sleep.
Exhausted from a night of insomnia, she finally drags herself out of bed and gets herself ready to face the day. After getting through her usual daily preparations, she packs her sleeves with everything she'll need for a long voyage to Sothis by ship.
When she meets up with her fellow adventurers, she recounts her harrowing nightmare. "Last night, I was visited by a most unsettling vision. I shall endeavor to recount it, though words, I fear, may fail to fully capture the immensity of the dread that has settled on my soul."
"In this dream, I beheld a vast and unmerciful desert whose golden sands stretched to the horizon. Amidst this arid wilderness, there rose towering mountains, their jagged peaks reaching up to the heavens."
"I then found myself ensnared within the bowels of the earth; in a cavern whose walls seemed to close in on me with each breath I took. The very name of this place came unbidden to my mind: The Choke."
"A certainty then came upon me; if we do not seek out The Choke, if we do not uncover the meaning of this forewarning, then Swirly shall one day rise and visit destruction upon us and all whom we hold dear."
Callistro arrives at their vessel in high spirits, having spent the previous day shopping with Marine. In retail therapy he is utterly relentless and is now sporting the snazziest in designer desert wear. Khaki pants, a blousy white linen shirt and rakishly titled broad rimmed hat along with knee high leather boots.
What ho friends, its a fine day to start a new journey. Now Jayma, no need to be so glum on such a fine day. Swirly was a mad little fey troublemaker but surely we will dispatch him with no more trouble than the last time. Lets not start this trip with lots of doom and gloom.
As he receives the telepathic message his mood sours slightly. Damnation, can he not get the message that his story is done. Swirly is old news, irrelevant, past his time, expired, unwanted and unneeded. Blast the creature. I for one have no intention of replying, it simply inflates his already over inflated ego!
The next morning, Dr. Lazarus nods knowingly as the gnome sorceress describes her nightmares. "Ahh, my dear Jayma, that sounds very much like what I went through two nights past." He adds, "As you know, I can address many ailments, but alas, fatigue from lack of sleep still eludes me. Fortunately, it will pass, given time."
Callistro's exuberance to get started rubs off on the Doctor, and he's excited to get started. Upon receiving yet another message from their nemesis, he says, "Agreed, Callistro. Best not to reply. Let him wonder if his thoughts are even getting through."
When Marine asks about the carriage. "I'm sure Chauncey can arrange transportation suitable for centaurs."
On the boat ride, the Doctor pours some brandy into his special brandy snifter. After offering drinks to anyone who wants to partake to imbibe, he reaches into his large book bag, and cracks open "Sothis: Jewel of Osirion Or Pathway to Danger" for some light reading.
Marine tosses and turns in her sleep. She sees her parents, her friends, her teachers, her sisters all being mentally dominated by Swirly. She watches helpfully as they all turn on each other. She sees the circus go up in flames and despairs - and then she wakes up. No matter how many times she goes back to sleep, it's always the same nightmare and same frightening scene.
Marine is barely able to drag herself out of bed. With a mumbled "G'mornin..." She stumbles into Calistro. "That hat looks really good on you..." She slurs, before stumbling into her room on the ship and staying there for the rest of the day.
She doesn't come out. What if what I've seen has already come to pass? She thinks to herself. What if Swirly has already taken everyone I love into the palm of his multicoloured hands? She despairs quietly and privately, hiding her fears from the rest of the party.
On the first day of the boat voyage, Marine and Dr. Lazarus have the nightmare again and again wake up poorly rested. During the day, Jayma and Callistro hear the taunting poem once more.
As the party approaches Sothis, on the second day of travel Marine and Jayma both have the nightmare. Perhaps they're getting used to it, though--this time it does not disrupt their sleep.
Once they reach Sothis, the party gets some advice from the locals on traveling in the harsh, arid environment of the desert. They are advised to travel slowly and divide their trip into slow days, so their strength isn't sapped by the heat. They're warned that many travelers who aren't used to the desert think they can avoid the heat by traveling at night, but that while that is technically true the cold of the desert after sunset can be just as dangerous.
But this advice is largely irrelevant as Jayma is able to teleport the party now that they are so close to their destination.
When they arrive, they find that the land here is more rugged, wind-gouged rocky badlands. Thorny cacti, some of considerable size, are the predominant form of vegetation, but even they grow sparse the closer the heroes draw to the rugged cliffsides of the Shining Mountains. All throughout, the wind churns and blows, lashing the land and filling the air with periodic, mournful howls as it rushes over hollows in the rocky landscape.
A particularly towering and ragged mountain resolves into the point of their journey as the riverbed’s route visibly leads up to the base of a rugged, sheer cliff with jagged tors and narrow ledges. A thin gorge cuts into the cliffside, but before the party can begin to travel the rest of the way there, they have their first encounter with the locals.
A small band of kholos make their way through the desert. While Callistro, at least, didn't know what kholos were, the party has had ample time to clarify that point and look it up if necessary. They are hyena-headed humanoids. They have a bad reputation for demon worship, but the truth is that kholo family groups are diverse. These kholos dress in colorful but ragged leather and silk that has suffered wear and tear from their rough journey; none of them carry weapons or wear armor, but several have small symbols of Gozreh dyed into their fur on a shoulder, bicep, or chest.
A group of four desert giants lead the kholos; these giants stride loudly at the rear and drive the kholos forward whenever they lapse or tarry, barking orders or threateningly swiping at them with scimitars. They strongly resemble humans, with the most notable difference that they average around 15 feet tall.
The party sees them coming from a short distance. Hidden behind some boulders, the kholos and giants don't seem to have noticed them yet. They are heading in the direction of the mountain.
Marine hides behind a dune and points a finger at the giants. She whispers to the party.
"So...attack the giants, spare the kholo?"
While waiting for a response, she slips Calistro his daily dose of darkivision elixir and draws her sword.
From her position behind the boulders, Jayma watches the desert giants treating the kholos like slaves and any speciesism she might have felt against the hyena-like creatures is forgotten. Her countenance turn icy as her disgust is transferred full-force to their gigantic overlords. When Sigourney suggests attacking the giants, Jayma nods in agreement. "This is an outrage! I cannot abide such injustice. These poor creatures must be liberated from their wretched bondage at once, and those despicable giants must be made to answer for their evil deeds!"
Seething, she prepares to cast a spell...
Dr. Lazarus studies the kholos. He points out, "My dear colleagues, I'm old enough to remember these creatures when they were gnolls. I guess they felt a change was needed." He shrugs and focuses on one of the lead giants.
While Jayme is considering various forms of destruction, the Doctor concentrates to make Swirly his Solid Lead of the day, so he can come back to it. In the meantime, he watches the giants and takes a minute to Pursue a Lead against one of the leaders.
Callistro goggles at the creatures, Oh, so those are Kholo's, who knew? Anyway, can we be sure they dont deserve their fate. Maybe they are some of those demon worshipping ones and the giants have captured them to stop them from performing some hideous ritual. We could always try talking to the giants. Does anyone speak their language? Does anyone know what their language is? Maybe they will respond to interpretative dance?
Jayma gives Callistro a withering look. She points to the kholos. "Even if those kholos were demon-loving ritualists, they do not deserve to be treated as slaves. Death, perhaps, would be just, but never bondage. First, we shall see to the giants, for their crimes are plain. As for the kholos? Should they indeed prove to be the fiend-worshipping ritualists you suggest (which, I must say, I find most unlikely), then we shall deal with them in a similar manner."
When Sigourney suggests attacking the giants, Jayma nods in agreement. "This is an outrage! I cannot abide such injustice. These poor creatures must be liberated from their wretched bondage at once, and those despicable giants must be made to answer for their evil deeds!"
Seething, she prepares to cast a spell...
"Sigourney? Who's that? Sounds like some huge nerd." Marine says. "Are you sure the nightmares didn't affect you?"
Seeing that violence is about to break out, Marine starts to stealthily sneak towards the giants...
Dr. Lazarus takes a moment to assess the approaching giants. They aren't exactly hurrying, but they still close most of the distance to the adventurers during that time.
He knows that, while desert giants don't have a strong elemental affinity like some other types of giants like fire giants, they are quite skilled with sand. They never have trouble finding their footing in sand, for one thing. That probably doesn't matter here, where the rockier terrain is solid enough that nobody else should have much trouble either, but there is still a layer of sand. They can kick it up to create a cloud of sand to conceal themselves.
As the giants draw level with the part, one of them notices them with a look of alarm. "No!" he shouts in a panicked voice, "No! Nononono! It's them! They're here to kill us all!" And, shrieking, he bolts and runs back the way they came. He is, notably, not running toward the Choke, so it seems unlikely he'll be able to raise an alarm or cause any other kind of trouble any time soon.
The kholos' looks of trepidation and fear give way to bewilderment, but the remaining giants look intent on violence.
Callistro is faster, though.
Callistro's turn.
Initiative:
Callistro: AC 30/32, 140/140 HP
Blue Desert Giant
Orange Desert Giant
Jayma: AC 28, 107/107 HP
Marine: AC 33, 162/162 HP (Undetected)
Dr. Lazarus: AC 30, 105/105 HP
Green Desert Giant
As battle is joined Callistro lights up like a torch, flames licking around his arms. As he spins the flames seem to grow and spread...
Ho, ho, ho, its good to be back on the trail of evil friends.
He strikes an elaborate pose, does a pirouette and sends out a pule of magical energy through the group, uplifting everyone's spirits.
Oracular warning makes me Cursebound 1. Casting courageous anthem and following it up with Incendiary Aura. I have added two auras to me, one for each. Can you make them visible please.
I take 1 persistent fire at the end of my turn, leaving me with 4 temps.
The giant with the blue scarf moves up swiftly, her movement something like a dance. The kholos duck away from her as she steps close by them. She darts forwards and swipes once at Dr. Lazarus with each of her scimitars (and cutting him once) before hopping back away. She lands next to Marine. She will certainly notice her--she must--but for one brief moment, she's looking the other way...
The next giant does the same, but needing to travel a little further it's all she can do to swipe at Dr. Lazurus with her left hand while lunging at Callistro with her right--and missing them both.
Jayma, Marine, and Dr. Lazarus's turn.
Initiative:
Callistro: AC 30/32, 140/140 HP (courageous anthem, incendiary aura, cursebound 1)
Blue Desert Giant
Orange Desert Giant
Jayma: AC 28, 107+5/107 HP
Marine: AC 33, 162/162 HP (Undetected)
Dr. Lazarus: AC 30, 89/105 HP
Green Desert Giant
"Sigourney? Who's that?..."
Jayma gives the giant that just attacked Thurston a withering look and with a "silent sea sucks savage soul," she sends the giant a vision of death by drowning. She follows this up with a wave of her hand and a glittery pink force field surrounds her.
Target takes mental damage with a Will save. If the target is reduced to 0 HP by this spell, its vision becomes reality and kills it instantly.
Critical Success The target is unaffected.
Success The target takes half damage and is frightened 1.
Failure The target takes full damage and is frightened 2.
Critical Failure The target takes double damage, is frightened 4, and is fleeing for as long as it's frightened.
Marine takes advantage of the Blue giant's inattentiveness to stab her in the back with her sword. As she does so, she uses her free hand to pull on the giant's scarf with a Snagging Strike. She yells "BOO!" as she makes her move.
Drawing the blade out of the giant, she attempts to Shatter Defenses with a mocking slash across its chest.
"You shouldn't have come here, lady!"
Sadly, Marine's bite is worse than her bark.
In preparation for a counterattack, Marine holds her dueling sword in a Dueling Parry.
After lecturing the group about the desert giants, the Doctor studies the enemy who dared attack him. "That was a mistake, my dear boy. Now, you shall feel the Doctor's wrath."
Spotting a gaping hole in its defenses, he joins Jayma's attack.
+2 Striking Returning Cold Iron Grabthar's Hammer (w/ Stratagem) +CA, vs Orange: 1d20 + 22 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 22 + 1 = 43
Energized from the critical hit, he tries again.
With a little extra time on his hands, Lazarus calculates it would be best not to be a punching bag for the giant looming over him. He moves north, to remain within his throwing hammer range.
The giant chokes and gasps on water that is not there, a panicked look on her face.
Marine stabs the giant and catches the loose end of her scarf. The giant manages to evade her second swing, though.
Dr. Lazarus lands one quite solid blow to the giant's hip, a gap in the leather plates of her armor. The second hit isn't as telling, but it's effective enough all the same.
He can't think of anything else useful to know about desert giants. Perhaps because they seem fairly straightforward.
The third giant, the slowest to reach, hurries forward (the kholos duck away and cover their heads). Having already seen Marine react to careless movement once, she circles around before striking at her from the other side. Marine avoids the first slice--but not the follow-up from the giant's second scimitar.
Callistro's turn.
Initiative:
Callistro: AC 30/32, 140/140 HP (courageous anthem, incendiary aura, cursebound 1)
Blue Desert Giant (-48 HP, Off-Guard until Marine's turn)
Orange Desert Giant (-93 HP, bloodied, Frightened 2)
Jayma: AC 28, 107+5/107 HP (shield)
Marine: AC 33, 126/162 HP (+3 AC)
Dr. Lazarus: AC 30, 89/105 HP
Green Desert Giant
Callistro dances forward across the sands, trailing flames. All three centaurs are now within his flaming aura. He quickly incants, conjuring three small, glowing, flaming glaives around himself which then spin out at each of the enemy centaurs.
Oh dear my friends, I fear things are not going to go well for you...
◆ Move
◆◆ Cast Rank 4 Blazing Bolt targeting Blue, Orange, then Green.
, crit
, hit probably
, maybe a hit?
, doubled for 34
If they take any fire damage then they are taking 4d4 persistent fire from Incendiary Aura.
He will then Foretell Harm as a free action meaning they will each take 8 fire damage at the start of their turn, assuming they took damage.
Callistro now goes to Cursebound 2, he has taken a total of 3 fire damage.
Courageous Anthem is now down. Roll on level 12 and Lingering Fortissimo.
All of the flaming glaives find their mark, particularly the first one.
The giant with the blue scarf slices twice at Marine. The second one almost cuts into her, but not quite. The giant makes a bit of a frustrated noise, and then spins, kicking up sand all around her. It's just enough to obscure her (and Marine) from sight a bit. Although the adventurers can still hear her yelp as she's burned.
The giant menacing Jayma and Lazarus advances on them, swiping at each of them with her scimitars. Lazarus ducks, but the sweep of the second blade catches Jayma.
Jayma, Marine, and Lazarus's turn.
Initiative:
Callistro: AC 30/32, 137/140 HP (incendiary aura, cursebound 2)
Blue Desert Giant (-101 HP, 4d4 persistent fire, Off-Guard until Marine's turn, concealed)
Orange Desert Giant (-133 HP, 4d4 persistent fire, bloodied, Frightened 1, concealed)
Jayma: AC 28, 107+5/107 HP (shield, concealed, 16 damage)
Marine: AC 33, 126/162 HP (+3 AC, concealed)
Dr. Lazarus: AC 30, 89/105 HP (concealed)
Green Desert Giant (-33 HP, 8 fire at the start of turn, 4d4 persistent fire)
All of the flaming glaives find their mark, particularly the first one.
Marine fumbles the reactive strike by aiming for below the belt and merely hits sand. She curses under her breath. Fortunately, she manages to parry most of the incoming blows.
Realising that the giants have gotten to Jayma, she decides to disengage from Blue and take some of the attention off her friend. Striding towards the Orange giant and using Jayma to set up a flank, she tries the same dirty trick she played on Blue by setting up a Snagging Strike .
"Swords off my friend, you knave!" she cries as she reaches for the giant's sandals.
Sadly, the sudden rush of sand into Marine's face throws off her aim.
"I don't like sand. It's coarse and rough and irritating and it gets everywhere." She whines to no one in particular as she whiffs her stab.
Spitting some stray clumps of sand out of her mouth that flew in as she was kvetching, she tries to Shatter Orange's Defences . With a mocking edge to her words, she makes fun of Orange for being scared of a little creature before slashing at her chest.
"Scared of a little gnome, are you? For shame!"
Jayma is not happy to have been targeted by the giant and looks around bemused. "Where are my defenders? Must I stand unguarded before such peril? My poor body was not wrought for such violence." But she has the foresight to activate her magical shield to absorb the bulk of the attack.
Most of the blow is dispersed by her shield, but the tip of the giant's sword manages to nick her regardless. "Ouch! You wretched brute! How dare you lay hands upon a poor, defenseless woman?"
But defenseless she is not. As she cannot see her attacker properly (and presumably vice-versa), she moves back behind the cover of a nearby tree to see better. With a clap of her hands and a "copious combustion clobbers colossi," she detonates a fiery explosion that envelopes two of the giants.