Apollo Fireborn's page

Thanks for running, DM S. Appreciate your efforts keeping things moving at a great pace and being very thoughtful/responsive to our questions.

And thanks also to the fine players and all the creative role-play. Had a lot of fun with your PCs. Hope to see you all again at another table!

While Makai is tending wounds, Apollo sees that the cleric is still injured. The halfling walks near her and grips his healing staff. He says, "Allow me?" With Makai's blessing, Apollo casts Heal on her.

Heal (2-action, 1st level, from staff): 1d8 + 8 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 8 + 1 = 14

The small halfling can barely see the enemies through the valiant, and very large, Precious. Apollo shrugs and says, "Let's try frying them instead." He sends forth an arc of electricity at each of the remaining enemies.

Electric Arc vs W1 and W2: 3d4 + 4 ⇒ (2, 3, 3) + 4 = 12
Basic Reflex DC 22

He then brings up a magical shield.

◆◆ Electric Arc, ◆ Shield

Dungeon Master S -- Maybe you didn't finish the turn description? Is our next group of intrepid adventurers up to bat? (Actually maybe all of us, since Aspis Group 1 met an untimely death?)

The little halfling nimbly dances out of the way to avoid the enemy's dagger. Apollo growls, "Nice try ... now you burn!" Heeding Jayma's advice about focusing attacks on the lead agent, the oracle moves back into Makai's aura and sends another ball of flame to finish him off.

Produce Flame + Bless vs U1: 1d20 + 12 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 12 + 1 = 29 (vs. flatfoot AC & frightened, courtesy of Krek?)
Fire Damage: 3d4 + 4 ⇒ (4, 3, 4) + 4 = 15
If crit, double damage + 1d4 persistent fire.

◆ Stride, ◆◆ Produce Flame

Knowing the importance of protecting the doorway, Apollo sees the Aspis agents run by and simply says, "Not today." Taking advantage of Makai's divine aura, Apollo sends a ball of flame at one of the enemies.

If U2 is still standing after the barrage from Samantha and Jayma, he'll focus his attack on U2. Otherwise, if U2 is down, he thinks it's a Beautiful Day and he'll aim at U1.

Produce Flame +Bless vs. U2 (or U1, if U2 is down): 1d20 + 12 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 12 + 1 = 25
Fire Damage: 3d4 + 4 ⇒ (4, 3, 3) + 4 = 14

Then in an effort to slow them down, the little halfling bravely (or, foolishly?) moves in front of one of the Aspis agents, hoping to provide some flanking for Krek.

◆◆ Produce Flame, ◆ Stride

Thanks for the refocus ruling. A couple questions about the map:

1) Just double-checking that our group can see the Aspis agents over the outcropping rock. The description essentially says, "Aspis agents eye us", so if they can see us, we can see them, yes?

2) Just curious where the "doorway" is? It could be the NE passageway, the passageway due East, or maybe it's behind us SW along the bridge.

Dungeon Master S -- Can we say our group had 10min to heal up and/or refocus? What if we say "pretty please"? :)

Even though he's out of spell slots, it doesn't keep a good flame-thrower down! Apollo grunts, "Time to die a fiery death." The oracle focuses his energy and casts Whirling Flames sending two small fireballs to burn several of the oozes.

Whirling Flames (Fire Damage) vs 1,3,4: 5d6 ⇒ (6, 1, 4, 3, 1) = 15
Two 5' bursts (identified by suns on the map). Basic Reflex DC 22.
Cost: 1 Focus Point. Oracular Curse advances to Moderate. (Apollo is concealed from others, and others are concealed from him.)

He then brings up a magical shield.

◆◆ Whirling Flames, ◆ Shield

Realizing what these oozes are, the smoking halfling yells, "These are ochre jellies! Do NOT slash or pierce or electrify them ... unless we want more of them!" He nods with approval as Jayma brings more fire.

Entering the cavern and seeing the slimy yellow creatures, Apollo attempts to recall information about them.
Recall Knowledge: Occultism +12
He shares what he learns with the group.

Considering his options, he grumbles, "You lot look like you deserve my last proper fireball of the day!" He sends a large ball of flame into the center of the room near the pillar, attempting to burn all the beasts.

Fireball vs all 4 Psueopods: 6d6 ⇒ (6, 6, 6, 3, 2, 3) = 26
20' burst. Basic Reflex DC 22

◆ Recall Knowledge, ◆◆ Fireball

With the stone columns stabilized, Apollo looks around to see who's injured. He turns to Makai, "Will you be tending to those who lost their fight against the dreaded pillars?" He pauses and adds, "I'm happy to help with some magical healing if needed." The oracle stands ready to assist.

Seeing the columns start to collapse, Apollo rushes in. The little halfling isn't the least bit athletic, "Those pillars are far too heavy. However, if we apply a little leverage ... like so ..." Apollo tries to stabilize one of the columns by strategically adjusting loose rocks.

Crafting (to Stabilize Column #1): 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (13) + 13 = 26

Apollo watches with awe as Jayma and Samantha leave no doubt with their effective attacks. He calls out, "Anyone need magical healing?" Seeing Krek's impressive battle scar, "Sorry, but I don't think I have anything for that, but ... I like the look!"
Would that require something like Restoration or Remove Curse or...?

If others heal up or search the area, Apollo will take 10 minutes to sit pray silently to Sarenrae for continued guidance.
Apollo refocuses to regain 1 focus point. Note: His minor curse remains in effect till his next daily prep.

Apollo moves in, gathers a ball of flame in his palm and flings it at the remaining enemy.

Produce Flame vs Red: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (13) + 12 = 25
Fire Damage: 3d4 + 4 ⇒ (4, 2, 4) + 4 = 14

•Stride, •• Produce Flame

Apollo follows the others into the crypt. When the dwarves attack, he realizes he's far too close to the action. The halfling carefully steps back and pretends to consider his options. He mutters, "Hopefully they're not flame-resistant." Hating to disappoint, the oracle attempts to burn them, but with a new spell, Whirling Flames.

From his outstretched hand, he shoots two small fireballs centering them strategically around the enemies.

Fire Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (2, 6, 2, 5, 6) = 21
Whirling Flames: Two 5' bursts ... indicated by orange suns on the map. Should hit 4 of the 5.
Basic Reflex DC 22. Cost: 1 Focus Point.

Smoke and flames manifest around the oracle and cloud his vision, activating his minor curse.

◆ Step, ◆◆ Whirling Flames

Following Makai's lead, Apollo says, "Well done, m'lady! More holy fire it is!" He takes aim at the nearest one (H1) with his own Searing Light, doing his very best to avoid the valiant knight in front of him.

Searing Light vs H1: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (17) + 12 = 29
Note: If the tiny poppet provides lesser cover, please subtract 1 from the above attack roll.
Fire Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (6, 2, 5, 6, 1) = 20
Good Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (1, 1, 1, 5, 4) = 12

He then steps forward to be in better position to heal his allies.

◆◆ Searing Light, ◆ Step

Considering the pace of the special, I don't mind a playerbot for Makai.

Not sure how a player bot actually works (are you looking for someone to post for Makai or make a suggestion?)

Here's a suggestion:

◆ Recall Knowledge (+13 Religion)
◆◆ Searing Light (if a fiend) at H2, in front of her.

Apollo looks with interest at the strange room and studies the strange creatures. "You are interesting specimens. Hopefully, you burn."

Religion +11 for Recall Knowledge.

He shares any information with the group. Then, to no one's surprise, he launches a fireball into the center of the enemies.

Fireball: 6d6 ⇒ (2, 3, 5, 6, 4, 3) = 23
20' burst. Basic Reflex DC 22

◆ Recall Knowledge, ◆◆ Fireball

Back at camp, Apollo brushes off soot and ash from his cloak. It doesn't help. In the morning, the oracle prays to Sarenrae, prepares his healing staff, and uses his Wand of Lucky Number.

Wand of Lucky Number: 1d20 ⇒ 8

When the group is discussing the next assignment over breakfast, Apollo grumbles, "Eggs are cold." He eventually adds, "Don't care which area we go to next. Temple sounds fine." He casts Produce Flame to heat up his breakfast properly, and he continues eating.

Apollo gives a nod of approval as the group takes down the last enemy. He turns to Makai, "Feeling better now, lass?" When she offers healing, he graciously accepts. "Many thanks."

In the next area, Apollo stares in wonder at the books and ledgers linking the walls. The oracle lights the oil lamp with a Produce Flame spell. With proper lighting, he studies the library.

Academia Lore: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22

Seeing the one remaining enemy on the battlefield, Apollo moves into position for a clear shot. The oracle then sends another Searing Light in the enemy's direction. "Sarenrae, grant me strength!"

Searing Light: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (3) + 12 = 15
BOO! Let's hero point that!
Searing Light: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (19) + 12 = 31
Saranrae really is watching over the little halfling...
Fire Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (6, 2, 5, 2, 3) = 18
Good Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (6, 4, 2, 6, 4) = 22
On crit, double all damage.

◆ Stride, ◆◆ Searing Light

Glad to have you back, Dungeon Master S. And thanks to GM Frost for moving us along. We appreciate it.

Note: With Makai conscious, she should be up in initiative now too, yes?

Apollo gasps as Makai is taken down. Standing next to her, he taps the cleric with his Staff of Healing. "Rise, friend. We have work to do!"

Heal 1st level (1-action) (+1 from Staff)): 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 1 = 8

The oracle then shouts, "With Sarenrae's blessing!" And he follows up Makai's Searing Light with one of his own at the same target.

Searing Light vs Z1: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26
Fire Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (6, 4, 3, 2, 1) = 16
Good Damage: 5d6 ⇒ (1, 1, 2, 5, 2) = 11

◆ Heal (from staff), ◆◆ Searing Light

When the mist clears and the valiant knight mentions the second carving, Apollo nods to Precious, "Many thanks, Sir. Allow me to try again." The halfling moves to the next carving carefully, with similar prayers to Pharasma as he approaches.

Religion DC 23: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (19) + 11 = 30

Fortitude DC 20: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (10) + 11 = 21
Apollo takes 5 negative damage.

All too used to being around smoke and fumes, Apollo manages to avoid the worst of the mist's damage. He pushes through the group to get a closer look. He studies the carved image.

Religion DC 23: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (17) + 11 = 28

He begins chanting, "Oh Pharasma, Lady of Graves, please accept our prayers and well-wishes for those passing along the River of Souls. We did not intend to disturb their peace." He bows his head in respect for the dead.

Apollo watches how true deception is used on the door, and takes note of Jayma's style. He admits, "Well done, Jayma. Makai may or may not have needed your aid, but I thought it was believable." Turning to Makai, he adds, "Your knowledge of your culture is impressive."

The halfling follows the others inside.

Apollo talks to the door. He ignores the concerned looks from the group who are convinced he's lost his mind. "Oh magical door...won't you share with us your secrets?" His goal is to have the magical energy focused on him, and not Makai and others who are using a direct approach.

Deception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (3) + 12 = 15

Back at camp, Apollo decides to purchase a Snapleaf Talisman and gets it attached to his chain shirt.
He chooses the Oil of Unlife from the nice vendor, as his free potion. What level is the potion?

Apollo approaches the door, carefully at first, and then more boldly after the hobgoblin succeeds at finding traps. "Okay there, Krek? You hurt?" The oracle offers healing if needed.

Apollo then studies the symbols on the door. He nods to Jayma and focuses on the 3rd symbol.

Assuming this is a secret check, Apollo has Religion at +11.

After the encounter, Apollo looks himself over. Finding no gaping holes and very little blood, he nods, "Just another successful battle. Anybody hurt?" He provides magical healing for anyone who needs it.

When he sees the badges, he grumbles, "Aspis. Of course." He glares at the fallen enemies, and promises, "Your friends will suffer a similar fate."

The next morning, Apollo prays to Sarenrae and prepares his Staff of Healing. Before packing up, the oracle uses his Wand of Lucky Number for some possible luck.
Lucky Number: 1d20 ⇒ 6

Upon joining the group, he nods, "The labyrinth sounds fun." He follows along.

Apollo opts to bravely hold his ground (out of the fray). "Now they've been cooked, time to deep-fry them." Apollo shoots forth an arc of electricity at the two remaining enemies.

Electric Arc vs #2 and #5: 3d4 + 4 ⇒ (4, 1, 1) + 4 = 10
Basic Reflex DC 22

He then casts Shield.

◆◆ Electric Arc, ◆ Shield

Oh, of course. Yes, makes sense! Thank you. I just didn't want to hold up the game if you were waiting on my post when I was delaying.

And ... as you wisely suspected, I did wind up jumping back in. So ... never mind. :)

Apollo will come out of delay.

With the group deciding these foes need to be defeated, Apollo needs little encouragement to follow up Jayma's fireball, with one of his own. He centers it, doing his very best to avoid Samantha and Krek.

Fire Damage: 6d6 ⇒ (1, 1, 4, 6, 5, 6) = 23
Basic Reflex DC 22

Since I'm not sure who's remaining on the battlefield, can I request the GM find an appropriate position to blast a few bad guys, while avoiding the good guys?

Apollo then brings up a magical shield.

◆◆ Fireball, ◆ Shield

"Apollo: Go"

Just to make sure you saw my post, Apollo is in delay.

Upon reaching the pair of dwarven doors, Apollo's sensitive nose picks up an odd metallic scent.

Religion DC 22: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29

The divine oracle recognizes the smell immediately and grumbles, "This is Abyssal ... often present when summoning a fiend. Be wary."

Later, when the group is threatened by a mob of vicious humans with daggers, Apollo thinks a well-placed fireball would do the trick. Of course, to be fair, he always thinks a well-placed fireball is the solution.

But he resists the urge ... for now. And he waits with curiosity.

Apollo delays.

When the sisters seem disappointed in the group's failure to reach consensus, the irritable oracle grumbles. Apollo's face begins turning the color of his beard. Those nearby think his clothing might be emitting even more smoke than usual.

However, when Sir Precious changes his mind, Apollo's mood visibly improves. He looks to Samantha.

I don't expect he needs an additional roll to vote for the beacon, as he did before. But if so, I'll include it in a spoiler just in case.

The sisters listen to each of your ideas ... and they're unmoved.

As statues should be. :)

Apollo is confused about what the votes actually meant. "I fear we failed you. Our apologies if we weren't in agreement. Nonetheless, thank you for allowing us to pass." He then adds, "Is there anything you can tell us of the road ahead?"

The halfling moves around the corner to get a better look at the southern portion of the room.

Not having spoken to a living statue before, the halfling looks up transfixed at both of them. When he finds his voice, Apollo turns to Jernashall, "You were both named after ancient cities ... what can you tell us about them?" He considers and asks, "Are you permitted to share a random message with us, or are they intended for specific travelers?"

Upon hearing Krek and Makai, the oracle nods. "I must agree and vote with Raseri Kanton. A beacon would allow others to find and appreciate all that your ancient cities offer." In his mind, he pictures a glorious beacon of fire, lighting the way.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (16) + 12 = 28
Thanks for letting me keep the roll.

Apollo approaches the others near the statues, keeping a safe distance from Sir Precious, just in case. He says, "Greetings, ladies. I'm Apollo. I trust you're not flammable. Excellent."

When they mention their names, he responds, "We're here to explore a ... Wait! Did you say your name was 'Raseri Kanton'? The ruins we're exploring are known as The Lost City of Raseri Kanton." He bows. "It's an honor to be speaking with you. We shall of course respect you and your home. Is there anything we can do for you?" He humbly waits for a response.

Diplomacy - Make an Impression: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (16) + 12 = 28

I only see one bad guy #3

Ahhh...oddly, the google docs map wasn't refreshing properly. It's better now, although I see a single #4 skeleton, not #3. Perhaps a reboot of my computer is in order.

BTW, I apologize to the group if Apollo has been slowing things down. Work was limiting me to one post a day (late at night Pacific Time) this past week. Things will ease up significantly starting tomorrow (Fri afternoon). I never want to be the one person holding up the game -- especially when time is critical in this multi-table games -- so thank you all for your patience.

Is there more than one bad guy left? The map shows 2, but the text indicates 1.

Apollo sends another blast of positive energy at the remaining skeleton.

Disrupt Undead (positive damage): 3d6 + 4 ⇒ (1, 6, 2) + 4 = 13
Basic Reflex DC 22

◆◆ Disrupt Undead

After repeatedly shooting fire with varying degrees of failure, Apollo finally chooses to attack the skeletons properly. He casts Disrupt Undead at one of Samantha's tormenters.

Disrupt Undead (positive damage) vs. #2: 3d6 + 4 ⇒ (3, 5, 5) + 4 = 17
Basic Fort Save: DC 22
If #2 is down, he'll attack #1 instead.

He calls out, "Samantha, this might help." He casts Guidance on the iruxi.

◆◆ Disrupt Undead, ◆ Guidance

Even though his previous fire spell was ... unimpressive, Apollo remains stubborn, steadfast, and undeterred. "Dodge this!" He moves to a position with a clear shot at a skeleton attacking Samantha and casts Produce Flame to fling a ball of fire.

Produce Flame vs. #2: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (19) + 12 = 31
Fire Damage: 3d4 + 4 ⇒ (1, 3, 3) + 4 = 11
If crit, double damage and add 3d4 persistent fire

◆ Stride, ◆◆ Produce Flame

As the undead rise around him, the halfling grumbles, "And this is why I stay in the back!" He sighs and (not wanting to disappoint anyone) attacks with a fire spell.

He casts Burning Hands, directing his cone to include the 3 skeletons directly to his south.

Burning Hands (2nd level) Fire Damage vs 3,4,5: 4d6 ⇒ (6, 3, 5, 3) = 17
Basic Reflex for Skeletons 3,4,5: DC 22

He then moves a safe distance away.

◆◆ Burning Hands, ◆ Stride

Apollo grins at Makai. "Yes, well, if you traveled around in a near-constant smoky haze, you'd squint too. Even with my keen halfling eyes, it's hard." He adds, "But at the moment, the squinting is helping! And besides, concealment works both ways."

After the conversation, the oracle does, however, 'see' Makai's point and he casts Light on the end of his walking staff. With the benefit of his magical light, he stows his repair kit and moves around the corner.

Apollo enters the darkness. He's about to set something aflame so he can see, but stops as Samantha activates her Wayfinder. He has one too, but fire is always his first thought to solve any problem.

When he sees the others having trouble with the shaky floor, the smoking oracle pushes forward. "I normally keep to the back, but allow me." He unpacks his superb repair kit, and sets to work.

Crafting (Expert) + superb repair kit + crit aid(?): 1d20 + 13 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 13 + 1 + 2 = 29

Apollo stays near the back of the group, downwind, so the occasional waft of smoke doesn't bother the others ... as much.

Default exploration activity: Search

The flames oracle nods to Makai, "Agreed. A lake may ... inhibit my natural talents." Apollo prepares to follow the group to the formerly-sealed hallways.

A wild-haired halfling with a red scraggly beard grumbles as he nimbly hops off the back of a wagon. Over his chain shirt, his once-fine clothing appears to be constantly smoldering. At some point long ago, he stopped caring. As he approaches, it faintly smells as if something is burning. Rubbing his aching back, he turns back to glare at the driver. "For the return trip, I'll be riding up front! The jokes about the smoking section are always amusing." Upon hearing the driver still coughing, he rolls his eyes, mutters softly, "Oh Sarenrae ... give me strength..." and calls back, "Oh, you'll be fine..." "...probably." With his staff in hand, the halfling looks around for his mission companions.

When he finds the group, the wild-haired halfling introduces himself. "I'm Apollo. Hopefully your trip here was more comfortable than mine." He's pleasantly surprised to not see a team of giants like his last mission. He enjoys traveling with gnomes and dwarfs and ... is that a poppet? He eyes Precious curiously, steps a safe distance away, and casts Produce Flame to create a ball of fire in his palm. "I'm an oracle ... a master of fire magic." He considers and adds, "Perhaps master is too strong a word. Sometimes it gets away from me." Realizing he's smoldering once again, he explains, "You have almost nothing to worry about. Admittdly, there was this pub in Port Peril that ... took on some fire damage. But that turned out fine...ish. Eventually. The list of casualties was very minimal." Eyeing the flammable-looking poppet, he adds, "I'll endeavor to be careful near you, Sir Knight." The ball of flame dissipates.

Diplomacy DC 20: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (20) + 12 = 32

Having grown up in the volcanic mountains of the Valashmai Jungle, Apollo is quite looking forward to a volcano expedition! Having a keen interest in the topic, he explains that the two largest cities lost in the Rending were Tar Khardurrm’s underground capital city, Jernashall, and its sister city on the surface, Raseri Kanton. Jernashall was overwhelmed by magma flows, and Raseri Kanton was swallowed up by the earth. While some areas of the ruins still contain magma chambers, this expedition’s route should avoid them. More-likely environmental dangers include flooded chambers and unstable ground.

While everyone is talking and making purchases, the lucky halfling prays to Sarenrae and uses his Wand of Lucky Number. He thinks, "Like nana always said, better to be lucky than good."

Wand of Lucky Number: 1d20 ⇒ 8

Sounds like we'll have mostly/all(?) level 6's.

Apollo is a (slightly) crazed flames oracle.

o Divine caster, so he has some healing spells (like our cleric).
o Charisma-based, so he's good at Diplo and Intimidation (like our sorceress).

Basically, he'll be overlapping Makai for healing and overlapping Jayma for Cha-based skills. Sadly, he's not bringing much unique to the table. He's primarily good at burning things. He'll try not to get too close to Precious the poppet.