Stealing some time at work to post some thoughts - can't just let everyone leave like that :) 1st thought: Damn Dien, you are as fine a GM as they come - thank you for taking the time to add/change stuff to make the module more well rounded for us - all I can say is that you've managed to make what would basically be a dungeon delve (which can sometimes become boring, or dull) into something challenging both mechanically, and to our minds; 2nd thought: Really good group, and yes, it was a shame to lose Rosalia - she brought really nice interaction possibilities to the table. But to everyone else, it was really a pleasure to play with you guys. I would not hesitate at all if another chance presented itself. Some of you already know this, because I have sent out invites to join me in other games ;) 3rd thought: I really enjoyed the introduction of 'Smart' - usually I dislike comic reliefs or similar in my RPG, but Smart was intelligently played, and his interaction with us played out in a really cool and enjoyable way. *claps* 4th thought: I learned a lot of stuff while playing Heldar, and an important one was skills priorities - I don't regret the high Perception (maybe because I was lucky), but I would change some stuff around for sure. And yeah Javi, I once read something about scouts and... No Darkvision hurts :D Overall I think we did quite well as a group, even without a full Arcane caster, which was something that got me slightly worried from the get go. Heck, we DID win some serious fights - I saw that one against our NPC opponents about to go sour, but then again Dien was cheating, by making them know all about us :P (jk) I honestly hope to see you all around the boards, and at a renewed chance to play together again. So if anyone wants to step up as a GM, please feel free to do it, hehe. You guys know I haven't flexed my GM muscles in a long time, but I might consider running something for you guys, if that would suit your fancy, and if you think you would have the patience to bear with my doubts about game mechanics.
Javi the Wasp wrote: ”I’m for leaving,” he responds to Lonicera, and then shoots an annoyed look at Heldar. ”If you’re going to double-check my work anyway, I’m more than happy to go cool my heels while you handle it. Save me the trouble of seeing any more runes, anyway. I don’t think I’m cut out for un-life as a subjugated mummy … too boring.” "I wasn't double checking your work Javi, and I don't think my actions were at the root of the jars exploding" - Heldar sighs, shrugging the matter away, and clearly not intent on pursuing the issue any more - "Nevermind. I have nothing more to add to this discussion. We do as you prefer" Without another word, he channels life energy to heal his companions. Channel: 4d6 ⇒ (4, 4, 5, 6) = 19 Channel: 4d6 ⇒ (1, 3, 6, 3) = 13
Fortitude: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20 The feeling of disgust is almost overwhelming, as the multitude of organs surge over Heldar and his companions - not only that, but the fact that internal body parts would actively try to end the adventurer's lifes, is not something easy to cope with, but they do so. "Thank you" - he manages a smile to Rosalia, willing himself to ascend until he feels to be at the range limit where the swarm will not attack him anymore, and again focuses the power of Life to banish the monstrosities from around them - "Enough of this foulness" Channel to harm swarm: 4d6 ⇒ (6, 1, 3, 3) = 13 I guess I could Quick Channel guys, but I'm not sure what else we are up against still. May need that healing :P
Retconning while Dien repairs the laptop :D Rosalia wrote: Rosalia gives Heldar a cool brow arch in turn. "And when I go out of my way to pick a fight that I don't have to," she answers, "you can tell me to heal myself. Having nearly had my soul eaten by that thing upstairs, you'll pardon me if I'm in a hurry to get out of here. The Society didn't mention elder-god-thingies trying to corrupt my will and make me into their puppets." "What did you expect my friend?" - the oracle shakes his head as he moves into the room - "Welcoming carpets, and a peaceful travel? I know you did not" - he smiles - "This is the life you have chosen to lead - and you know better than me there is always 'something' wanting to eat your soul at one point or another, if not actually your flesh" - he shrugs - "We didn't have to do any of this - we could have simply stayed in Absolom" :P
Ok, I don't want to drag this also, but in fact, like I said, was only trying to convince the other characters to change their mind, and I think OOC would not be the place to do it. I understand it is hard to move a PbP when there is the need for a debate between characters, but hey, it just happened :) Also, I am not in a hurry to end this game - I like the group, and I like the GM, so I'm gonna draaaaaaaaaaag this all the way through :P That being said: Knowledge (Religion): 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (18) + 15 = 33
Heldar winces as the mass of undead animated organ and body parts wash over him - trying to stay calm, in spite of the horrifying sensation, his mind races through what he has read or heard about such disgusting entities - "These foul remains are animated by negative energy" - he informs the others - "Effectively non-living, or undead, and particularly resistant to weapon attacks - slashing them is our best chance" - the oracle continues - "Not only that, but I believe them to be hellish in nature, and thus resistant to cold, fire, and electricity" That being said, he steps aside, focusing on harnessing the life forces all around them into a concentrated point, that immediately bursts outward, trying to wash away the mass of writhing undead. Channel to damage the swarms: 4d6 ⇒ (4, 4, 3, 4) = 15
The question is actually quite straightforward Dien - Heldar has zero exploratory skills apart from his Perception - he cannot find traps, cannot break down walls, is no martial threat, etc. Since we work as a group, he addresses those than can take a second pass at doing that or, according to their own skills, be able to perhaps think on another approach that can be taken to this particular room, apart from leaving. I have no intention to delay the game, nor do I usually think I do so. It was a simple conversation to try and convince the group to press on. Never mind then. Heldar looks surprised at Rosalia's words, and his tone of voice shifts - "Thank you Rosalia. Perhaps I will take the same approach whenever you require healing? And 'let you heal yourself'?" - he does answer without skipping a beat - "I was under the impression we were here to perform a task for the Society, and to do it as a team" - he finishes dryly, moving into the room. He focuses his attention on the brick wall, touching it carefully, looking for openings, or some way to open it. If he finds none, will ask if anyone has a pick, or something else that can serve a similar purpose, and request his companions to leave the room while he tries to open a hole in the wall. Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (18) + 14 = 32
I was thinking the 'jar' itself had the Evocation effect - my bad :P "I still have strong healing powers at my behest, and I can layer some protective magic on us as before" - the oracle insists - "Shall we unravel this final mystery friends?" - his curious, inquisitive mind pushing him forward. Still got a good couple of spells and healing left - I can Shield Other the one risking the most, go into Energy Body Form, still have 5 available channels, etc. Also, and more important of all - Heldar hasn't found yet a sweet piece of magical treasure for him. For sure it is behind that brick wall :D
"Are you serious friends?" - Heldar looks around at the group - "You are not even curious about what lies beyond? Did we come all this way simply to gather coin?" He stares at the room around him - "Come now, we owe it to ourselves..." - his attention focuses on the jar identified by Rosalia - "Why don't I..?" - then let the words trail off unto a spell, that initially trickles from his lips, but finishes with an imperious tone. Casting Dispel Magic on the jar with the Evocation effect. Caster Check?: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22
With a single word utterance, Heldar calls a Blessing upon himself and his companions before they proceed, his eyes studying the room they find themselves in. Casting Bless. Knowledge (Religion): 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (2) + 15 = 17
"That is the symbol of Asmodeus" - the Oracle points out - "Be on the ready friends, I am sure our wills and strength will be challenged here" With a second look at the jars, he adds - "I cannot help the feeling those are full of some sort of swarm... If by any chance they are all released, I believe there won't be much we will be able to do against them, apart from running. It all seems like a gigantic trap" After the Bless cast, Heldar will cast Detect Magic, and observe the room, looking for auras.
As he ponders the information they have gathered, also Heldar moves absent minded amidst the piles of riches all around them, looking here and there for anything that would catch his attention. Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (15) + 14 = 29 "The symbol of Aker may mean simply a measure of respect from the Pharaoh, to allow 'safe passage' on his ingress to the Underworld" - he ponders aloud - "Curiously enough, the symbology is also associated to 'exit' or 'exiting' which may, or not, have an impact on us leaving this place still in full body and soul" Javi the Wasp wrote: ”Sounds like Shaggar was more-or-less right,” he cuts the gnoll a grin, ”which means we got ourselves a legitimate desert sage, folks.” Quicksilver mood shift back to serious, ”But it’s the second-to-last line that jumps out at me. ’Let no hand take what the gods have granted unto me.’ That all this gold? Or his power? Or … I don’t know. But I guess we should assume we’re not done dealing with pharaohs just yet, huh?” At Javi's words, he retorts - "Well, the mighty undead dragon we have just bested would seem a strong enough guardian to make sure nothing was taken from this room" - he nods towards the beheaded, desiccated corpse of the wyrm - "Unless by a 'Shaggar' that is" - and finishes with a smile at his gnoll companion. Shaggar wrote:
"I believe you have the gist of it Master Guide" - the oracle nods - "I think we all know that chamber needs to be explored. Actually I think we've known it all along" - he chuckles - "As for what has brought us here, and what else we 'need' to do Javi, amassing riches is certainly not a minor goal, though perhaps not the most elevated one - we could debate what is done with those riches of course, but that would take us through a long winded route" - he smiles. "The Society craves knowledge above all else, and lets assume it craves it simply for its sake" - he adds with a jest in his tone - "And even though I don't think we yet fully understand all this pyramid has to offer, I think we had a good glimpse of it thus far. It is not easy to piece all of it together since we have been beset by all sides ever since we step in here - taking a step back to look at the big picture is not easy when you are fighting for your life. But I am sure once we are given a moment of respite, everything will start falling into place" Meaning I plan on re-reading most of our Gameplay - I just say Dien has chosen an amazing module for us to play. There's just so much info to digest and correlate :D "And I am sure the betrayer's crypt will play no small part in this"
Heldar is momentarily distracted by the beautiful bracers worn by the pharaoh, but again focuses as the dimensional anchor effect is referenced by Rosalia. His attention shifts to the dragon scales, and the dark pieces. Intelligence: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (19) + 3 = 22 After staring at them for a moment, he comments - "I believe these may fit together in a pattern if arranged correctly, and the same goes for the black shards" Pondering for a moment, he adds - "It seems there are two avenues of possible investigation ahead of us - the pharaoh remains, or trying to arrange these pieces, and understand what may happen..." Mainly with the necromancy identified by Lyrian :D
I must say that dragon seriously put a dent on my theory that it is possible to make a healer who manages to outheal, or at least compare in healing to the damage taken by the group - he hits hard as Hell that one :) Though yeah, our damage output is definitely nothing to snuff at. After making sure his companions are well, Heldar stammers towards the defeated draconic monstrosity. Guess I can throw a couple of channels for good measure? Channel: 4d6 ⇒ (6, 4, 3, 5) = 18
"My friends" - he turns back to regard his fellow adventurers - "You do realize we have just defeated a Dragon, do you not?" - his smile is wide as he retrieves a piece from the creature's shroud, and a huge tooth - "These will serve us well as mementos, and perhaps even objects of study" After the congratulations, it is time to carefully observe his surroundings, and the Oracle concentrates on a detection spell, aimed at locating magical auras of potential treasure troves. Or threats... Casting Detect Magic. Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (14) + 14 = 28
In spite of the dreadful assault on his senses, and the hazy cloud of fear it brings, Heldar's mind does not stop from working - even as he hustles towards Shaggar, the Life Link between them already taking effect, he looks upon the monstrosity that attacks them, trying to pinpoint its origin. Knowledge (Religion?): 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (16) + 15 = 31 As he gets close to Shaggar, the gentle touch betrays the power behind it - "Not today Master Guide" - his calm voice echoing about the chaos of combat, as a strong healing spell is unleashed. Move: Updated in Roll20 - I believe it to be legal since we are still hasted
CSW: 3d8 + 7 ⇒ (6, 2, 5) + 7 = 20
If I am hasted, can I attack once, and then use Aid Another with the second attack? I believe so, and in that case: Drawing his longspear, Heldar moves between Shaggar and Hatyah, using it to first try an attack on the crocodile, and profiting from their preternatural speed, assist in the defense of the massive gnoll. Lonspear attack on croc: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (17) + 11 = 28
Aid Another to Shaggar +2AC -> attack on croc: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17 Position updated on Roll20.
As Shaggar grows enormously, Heldar steps up close, placing a hand on one of the gnoll's massive arms - "Some added protection, Master Guide" - he whispers, uttering the words of a protective spell that, when finished, creates a shimmering, magical field around his companion, that averts and deflects attacks. Casting Shield of Faith on Shaggar = +3 Deflection bonus to AC for 7 minutes.
Heldar takes a deep breath as all his companions become restless at Lyrian's warning. Without hesitation, he utters a few short words, and a blessing falls upon them all. Casting Bless. Can't access Roll20 as I am on the train. Heldar will try not to stay I the front lines, and move slightly back from the others.
Yep, I was assuming that by Dien fiat, everyone was fully healed. Heldar looks around at his companions, feeling the Life Link that connects them pulsating with energy - "We may be looking at the mummy of Anok Fero - the Cerulean Pharaoh" - he comments - "Though I cannot assign any historical meaning to the depictions or mural" - the oracle adds. "We do know only some bits and pieces about him" - he ponders - "He is said to have invoked a legion of serpents to punish his tax collectors, and holds mastery over even the sacred serpents. The skies are his dominion and darken at his will and his word' - remember?"
Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (2) + 14 = 16 Heldar is in complete awe of the room before them, its sheer beauty completely taking him in - "Simply amazing" - he mutters at the delicate, vivid like details. GM Dien wrote:
"This room is a complete, delightful mystery it would seem" - he smiles at both Rosalia and Lonicera - "It is impossible to come to any conclusion with so many evident auras" - he adds - "I don't think we have many options apart from stepping inside" Staring at the area for a moment, he does try to understand if anything in particular is being depicted in the image, and namely who could that mummy be. History?: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (13) + 10 = 23
Just so that we have a list of loot from last fight: Xaven:
The half-orc:
The Asmodean:
"This is the ring we found in that pile of dust in the entrance atrium," she says. "Exactly like it. If he was telling the truth about Imivus being his grandfather, maybe it's a family signet ring?" Julistar:
Scepter:
Apologies for the loooong absence - last week was murder. GM Dien wrote:
"Don't say that Rosalia - it is good to have Smart back" - Heldar smiles while he gags Scepter. Lyrian Arkwright wrote: "Smart!" said Lyrian. "Welcome back! I was afraid we'd not see you again. Well...you know what I mean." "That" - he nods at Lyrian. As per Dien's suggestion on the 'healing hand waiving', are we making camp guys?
Heldar extends his Life Link to connect to Hatyah again, and make sure the hyena will live and be healed. Next round he is going to check the defeated foes, and confirm if any of them lives - if so, he will stabilize him/her. "We need to find the invisible one" - he urges his companions - "I will try to stabilize one of the fallen - there is still much information to be garnered"
"You would do well to surrender" - Heldar approaches, ceasing his life link with all but Shaggar. Shaggar heals 5 - Heldar takes 5. "As well as your invisible companion - it is your chance to live" - he adds to the half-orc, laying a hand on Shaggar, and unleashing a powerful healing spell - "You are safe" Cure Serious Wounds Shaggar: 3d8 + 7 ⇒ (8, 5, 8) + 7 = 28
On my phone, so apologies for not making a decent post - Shaggar, Rosalia and Lyrian will heal 5. Heldar takes 15. He will then heal himself with Energy Body, and cast Spiritual Weapon to attack the cheetah. Energy Body: 1d6 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 7 + 2 = 14 Spiritual Weapon on cheetah: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 10 = 12
It wasn't my intention not to heal Lyrian... I think I drew a blank there, because I thought I wasn't life linked to him... Guess I only needed to look to my previous post... So Lyrian heals 5, and Heldar is now at 22hp. Regarding my actions, I really dislike spamming spells, that is why I was trying to do something different... But since I am missing the standard action, and we need to keep on blasting, round will go: Move: Heal myself
Damage to Evil: 5d4 ⇒ (3, 3, 4, 1, 2) = 13 Dazzled/Blinded: 1d4 ⇒ 3
Rosalia and Shaggar heal 5. Heldar takes 10. Heldar bears the burden and pain from his companions, but he is not deterred, and nods with satisfaction as some of their enemies drop what they are carrying, weapons included. Intent on tipping the balance in their favor, he continues casting, targeting the man with the stick. Move: Healing myself
Energy Body: 1d6 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 2 = 11
Rosalia, Shaggar, and Lyrian all heal 5 - Heldar takes 15. Just realized Hatyah went down? I won't heal her right away, perhaps it breaks the Confusion? "Play smart master guide!" - Heldar shouts above the din of combat at Shaggar, launching another spell towards their opponents - once he is finished, the area of the corridor where their adversaries are concentrated is blasted with a tremendous cacophony. Standard: Casting Sound Burst (Fort Save DC17) - I tried to design it as best as possible in Roll20 :D
Sonic Damage: 1d8 ⇒ 5 As the sound consumes his opponents, the Oracle glows in a pale golden light even further, healing his own wounds. Energy Body: 1d6 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 2 = 11 Javi, I'm sorry man... I'll try a Dispel Magic next round, but really, my hands have been full - Confusion is just... I don't know... At least we're about to go into round 7, who knows? :D Edited so as not to heal Hatyah. If she stays down, the cycle is broken?
So... The only time I didn't heal Shaggar... :P Rosalia heals 5, Hatyah heals 5, and Shaggar heals 5 - Heldar takes 15. With a few magical words, the oracle conjures a magical spell that bursts atop the conjured cheetah, filling the area with a brilliant flash of shimmering light. Casting Burst of Radiance (Reflex Save DC17) on the bottom left corner of the square where the cheetah is - I think this affects none of my allies, and all of our enemies? Could you confirm Dien? Also, it should still damage Xaven, and Hrokon is still entangled? :D I'm assuming also you'll roll damage and durations - maybe they are not evil? :D Then his light form moves towards Rosalia, hovering over her for a split second, and healing her wounds, then back to the corner. Energy Body Rosalia Heal: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13 Sweet, Rosalia heals 15hp total this round.
Rosalia, Shaggar and Hatyah heal 5 - Heldar takes 15. "I need to see the combat" - Heldar whispers to Lyrian, stepping in front of him, and into the corridor. With a single utterance, he urges the halfling to attack one of his own companions - "May your allies turn on themselves!" As he speaks, the glow from his body increases momentarily, and he heals himself. Energy Body: 1d6 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 2 = 11 Move: Using Energy Body to heal myself
Shield Other is not up anymore Dien ;) Rosalia, Shaggar and Hatyah heal 5, Heldar takes 15. With a smile to Rosalia, the oracle, now a nimbus of light, nods his head, glowing even further - "Fear not Rosalia, I will not let you fall" Then, with a stern look, he focuses his will on the magical silence effect, casting a spell to counter it. Quick Channel: 4d6 ⇒ (6, 4, 4, 4) = 18-> Heldar heals 26hp, Rosalia heals a total of 23 with Life Link. Dispel Magic on Silence: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25 Move: Channel
Ok, so Heldar will take +15damage (for a total of 30), and Shaggar, Rosalia and Hatyah will heal 5 each. Dang halfling hit me by 1 ;) Heldar's eyes go wide as the halfling pops out of thin air to attack him - "You are a fool to have come into our midst" - he speaks, his eyes flaring. In a blink of an eye, the Oracle focuses his willpower into a sudden burst of healing energy that encompasses all his allies, but not the halfling attacking him - "You have but one chance to surrender, else this will be your tomb" - he adds, his body transforming into pure light. Move: Quick Channel
Channel: 4d6 ⇒ (5, 1, 1, 2) = 9 Heldar heals 17 - I'm rolling like crap... Rosalia will be up to 23, Shaggar to 63, and Hatyah to 36. Someone better get this freaking halfling off my back :D |