R, as stated above.
I can handle PG-13. Take it much more saccharine than that and I am liable to kill myself. Blood guts and gore, good. Do characters visit the brothel? Yes (in detail, no). Would the best time to kidnap or kill a villain character be while he is having sex? Absolutely (no clothes or weapons! Les threat).
My thoughts at least... ^_^
Okay, its settled. When Lilith runs J3 I am soooo playing a Soulknife.
Be afraid.
Kewl Eyebite. I am still not sure who is going to run next, so I am only sure of what I'll be running for Lilith's game.
Which game it is will more determine what I play than simply what I want to play next.
A few things I want to play
Rogue (possibly Wilderness variant)
Fighter (likely the Thug variant)
Shoanti Barbarian or Spirit Shaman or maybe Druid
Possibly a Sorcerer in there somewhere
Thats mainly it for now.
Session 3: Part 1 The Fires of Destiny
1 Arodus, Late Night, 4708 AR
Having finished their interrogation of the two nefarious henchmen, Xaven and Hrokan, Obasi and the others were forced to decide what to do with them. The master of the inn they were staying at, the Overlander's Emporium was already convinced it was the orc-blooded fellow who was responsible for the fire. Knowing this they decided to press home that advantage.
Beechum
They bribed the man with the master crafted scimitar taken from Hrokan after the battle to pay for his damages. Obasi then appealed to the innkeep, asking if they might leave the two knaves here for a few days before deciding what to do with them. After a moment to think, he agreed. The half-orc and halfling were quickly installed into the wine cellar below the Overlander. Hrokan was rather helpful, by virtue of the charming magics that Obasi had previously used upon him. Beechum seems to be taking a liking to Obasi in particular and offered to introduce him to his daughter, the next time that she comes around. Obasi reluctantly agreed.
Their preparations included then, lengthy discussions about how to rescue the Mithral Scarab from this Warehouse and what to do with their documents while pursuing that lead. Making their way across the city to the local Bank of Abadar on the Pathways of Enlightenment, they were greeted by a priest upon the stairs of the chapel enjoying a late night smoke. Seeing as obviously these people were in some grave trouble and hurry, he ushered them inside. The Priest, Father Mikhail was forced to refuse them the use of the vaults at such an ungodly hour as that, but found himself suitably persuaded by the arguement of their platinum-tongued negotiator, Obasi. Once the offering was placed onto the collection plate, Father Mikhail asked their purposes. They set him to copying their documents with deliberate falsehoods in key areas and then to place them in the vault when finished. After they left to rescue the Mithral Scarab, he closed the chapel for the night.
More to come...
Session 3, Part 2
Using the knowledge they gleaned from Xaven and Hrokan, supplemented with local knowledge of the city by Obasi, as the hour climbed towards midnight, our eclectic adventurers arrived outside of the warehouse. Attempting to be as cautious as possible, they agreed that Allerund and Obasi would stand back and keep a lookout while Amyrta and Olen slipped around the building to get a closer look. Moving like moonshadows, the two disappeared into the night.
While Olen and Amyrta were seaching behind the building, Obasi and Allerund seemed compelled to have a heart to heart discussion. Perhaps the two men, so different in their outlook on life and destiny, might share some small commonality. Their conversation were so deep and intense, that the gentlemen lost track of their whereabouts and the fact that they were standing in the middle of the main street. Unfortunately for them, Julistar's elf was returning just then. Not being distracted by confusing emotions, her eyes went wide in surprise as she threw herself into the leeward shadow of a nearby tent.
Around the back of the warehouse, Olen and Amyrta, through sheer luck, which apparently Cayden Cailean seems to have granted his priest in abundance, noticed a cleverly concealed door in the wall right where Olen had been planning to climb the wall. Slipping back to the ground, Olen and Amyrta quickly came to agree to a plan, they would wedge a piton into the frame of the secret door, preventing it from opening. The only problem was to muffle the sound.
Behind the tent, realizing that she hadn't been seen, Daile unlimbered her Greatbow and fitted a signal arrow to the string. Sighting upwards, she fired it into the night, releasing a piercing scream! The guards within the warehouse began to scramble to battle readiness and to make their escapes.
Using this sound to cover their hammering, Olen and Amyrta pounded the piton into the door frame. Olen then proceeded to climb up to the narrow window to see what was happening within. He reached the window just in time to see a dark cloaked man slip out of the small office. Dropping down, he turned to Amyrta and quickly realized they needed to see more of the building. Moving quickly, they ran to the south wall of the warehouse and Olen climbed to that window, finally getting a full view of the interior of the warehouse. A clutter place, with hard packed dirt for a floor and rickety wooden shelves holding oilcloth wrapped bundles and piles throughout the building. He also saw the cloaked and hooded man open one of the far doors and pull a near unconscious Mithral Scarab from a different storeroom.
Next...let the games begin!
Session 3, Part 3
While around the warehouse, Olen and Amyrta circled the building, heading for the north wall, the guards within prepared for their escape. Three moving towards the entrance, two going for the secret door. The hooded man, holding Mithral hostage, moved towards the room with the secret door.
Looking around in surprise after hearing the signal arrow, Obasi and Allerund froze, trying to spot anything strange. Fitting an arrow to his bow, Allerund took a few steps towards the warehouse, looking to see more. Placing himself directly in Daile's firing path. The shaft left her greatbow with nary a whisper...singing through the night sky to lodge itself in Allerund's throat!
Staggering in shock, Allerund ran to where Obasi looked at him wide eyed and managed to growl for him to get down. They quickly got to the lee side of the tent near where they were standing to take cover. Once under cover, Obasi tried to stop the bleeding with his wand. Fortunately for Allerund, this was enough. Unfortunately, in the night, they had not spotted the shooter. Not before running for cover.
Seeking to quickly end the elf and to eliminate the problem of the sorcerer, Daile decided on a cruel action. She produced her Fire Elemental Gem and shattered it on the street. A Large Fire Elemental swirled up in lambent flame from within the crystal.
"Destroy the elf, Allerund." She said to it.
The vortex of flame and ash streaked of towards their hiding place, far faster than most men afoot. Streaking towards the men, Allerund looked at Obasi and hoarsely asked,
"Did you do that?!"
"NO!" Obasi shouted back.
The elemental towered over them and began to pummel them with tongues of living fire, burning Allerund severely. Obasi, luckily managed to avoid being singed. Stepping back, out of range, Allerund and Obasi took turns firing arrows and blasts of acid at it to little effect. Surging forward again, it set Allerund ablaze, his clothing and hair igniting like kindling. Staggering away and swatting at the fire, his skin blackening and splitting in places, Allerund shouted for Obasi to use his magic to become invisible and flee! Taking his own advice, Allerund greedily consumed a Potion of Invisibility and then dropped to the ground, smoldering. Obasi, seeing Allerund vanish, prepared himself for a desperate measure.
Under cover of the darkness, Daile circled around the other side of the tents, not knowing that the elf she so wished to kill had just made himself invisible. She circled around and began sighting down her arrow, looking for the target.
Back at the warehouse, a short distance away, the group of three Chelish Mercenaries burst from the front doors, setting up a defensive position, not yet realizing the bolt-hole had been locked from the outside. Their task was to buy their master time to escape, with their lives if need be. The hooded man, the morally bankrupt Kemesarian, last seen administering to the antiquities auction by the PCs, dragged Mithral towards the exit room. Olen, calling upon the power of Cayden Cailean and the view of the room he'd had a moment before prayed for the veils between worlds to part and become a doorway. Stepping through, he came face to face with Kemesarian and immediately recognized him before trying to run him through with the point of his rapier! Stumbling back, Kemesarian, unsheathed a wickedly curved falchion upon which he meant to spit the annoying priest.
A fierce duel ensued. Amyrta, hearing the mercs trying to smash the secret door open, returned to that point to lay in wait. As the door finally smashed open, she floored one of the men with a crushing blow before triggering her Bracers of Repulsion sending them staggering. Leaping over them, she burst into the main room of the warehouse in time to see Olen step back from the man while waving his free hand in eldritch passes and saying "I think I got the wrong warehouse.... after having cast Charm Person.
Kemesarian, however didn't fall for the weak magics and attempted to seperate Olen from his head. Having noticed the duel going on behind them, the guards at the front doors started returning to save their master.
Outside, Obasi stood facing a towering elemental alone. He had little options. calling upon his magic he took the risk to cast a spell of invisibility upon himself. The Elemental, taking advantage of his momentary inaction, swung its flaming appendages at him. His spell nearly disrupted, Obasi called upon every last vestige of strength he had and finished the spell. Disappearing right from beneath the Elemental!
Allerund, still hidden by invisibility, rolled through the dirt to extinguish the fires still burning on him. Once the fires were out, rolling to a crouch he shouted to Obasi "Get out of there! Head to the warehouse!" An arrow then thudded into the tentpost near him. In the gloom he then noticed the elven archer standing there, trying to listen closely...
Tauntingly, she said "You're Allerund right...?" After a pause, and no response from him..."Ahh...not talking I see."
Turning to the Elemental standing still a short ways away..."Go and kill them all!" With a glance back towards where she was sure Allerund was standing near...she then raced off into the night.
Part 4 coming soon.
Session 3, Part 4
After Daile sped off into the darkness, Allerund began picking his way slowly towards the Warehouse, healing himself with potions in the process. He rounded the date palms and tents quickly enough to see the Elemental streaking towards the open doors of the warehouse, unbeknownst to him, right behind the sprinting Obasi. Thinking the Elemental following him, Obasi charged into the warehouse, dodging past the mercenaries whose eyes went wide at the approaching fire elemental. The elemental surged into the warehouse before any of the mercenaries could react, instantly beginning to set the oilcloths and dusty shelves ablaze.
Outside Allerund approached and watched the ensuing mayhem.
Amyrta and Olen took up opposing positions on either side of the beleaguered Kemesarian. The Mithral Scarab lay against the nearby wall, unconscious from her wounds, for the moment ignored by the combatants. Obasi, still invisible, ran up to where the Scarab lay and checked to make certain she still lived, fortunately, she did. He was not a moment too soon. Seeing their master so locked in mortal battle with two of the enemy, while two of the mercenaries charged towards the interlopers to engage them, the third ran for the prone body of the Scarab, intending to rob the heroes of their rescue. The Elemental, meanwhile, had at this point gained the room past the shelves and reveled in setting fire to yet more of the room.
To aid his companions, Obasi used his magics to summon a Giant Scorpion and set it to attack Kemesarian! Seeing a possibility to bring and end to one of his old foes, he bade it attack, while he retained his invisibility to protect the Scarab. The legionnaire, raised his metal shod fist and slammed it down towards the unconscious Mithral's face. With not a moment to waste, Obasi threw his body across hers, taking the blow to his shoulder and only succeeding by a hairs breadth. The mercenary was momentarily stunned, not knowing how she survived.
After an abortive attempt to enter the room by leaping through the burning shelves, Allerund picked his was through the flaming brands and fit an arrow to his bow, hoping to aid the combatants as the elemental was even now joining the fight by Kemesarian. Making one final strike at Olen and scoring a long gouge on his ribs, Kemesarian unceremoniously ran, straight towards the burning portion of the warehouse while the elemental and mercenaries closed in. Nearly tripping from the deep stab administered by Olen and a head-ringing blow delivered by Amyrta, Kemesarian only just managed to stumble away. Once out of their reach he quickly began fumbling at a pocket of his robes.
The Elemental and Mercs engages the valiant Olen and Amyrta, landing glancing blows to both and scattering yet more embers throughout the building. The melee became swift and furious, scorpion, elemental, mercenaries, all exchanging blows. One of these punishing blows proved too much for Olen, as the elemental delivered a clout that sent him sprawling, unconscious, possibly dead. Amyrta's fist gained renewed fervor as she quickly dispatched the two remaining mercenaries engaging her. The merc trying to murder the Scarab took a last half-hearted attempt before fleeing out the back door. In the confusion Kemesarian managed to choke down his invisibility potion and slip out the back in the next few moments.
Turning to face the elemental, Amyrta thought she was alone, neither Obasi, nor Allerund could she see. Yet, she still faced it. Slashing at it with her kama, it returned the favor by dripping flames across her, trying to add her form to the pyre. Alas for the elemental, it was not to be. To swift to be caught by the fires, she danced away from it just as the summoning magic that sustained it failed, sending it back to whatever fiery place spawned it. Obasi, realizing that Olen's death was likely at hand, reached over and used his Wand of Cure Light Wounds to attempt to save Olen. Fortunately, he was just in time to do so. Seeing there were no further enemies to be defeated, the PCs quickly fled the burning building so that they may find some place to rest and recieve healing. After asking Obasi of their options..they quickly decided on the Temple of Sarenrae. The grandest of all temples in Sothis. Arriving there in the dead of night...our exhausted heroes collapsed into the soft embrace of the priests and priestess of the Dawnflower.
Next Session, Arodus 2, 4708 AR
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Hey all,
I was wondering if I could get in on the fun with the next module?
I've talked to Yasha and Pygon and they have both expressed an 'if its ok with the others its ok with us' opinion.
I would accept your decision if you decide that a fifth PC would put to much work on the shoulders of the dm or you just don't want to play with me, but if you think a fifth would let you play a more 'out there' class or would be fine with me joining or just wouldn't care if I did, I think that would be great too.
Thanks,
David
It's fine by me. Have we decided who's going to run a module next?
Lets give Daigle and Pygon some time to weigh in as well.
First, let me also mention this...
For LB1 (DM Pygon), My character is going to be...
Geddoe Hydarion (Male Human Fighter 5, War-college trained)
David, there are a few things that definitely need to be addressed though. We only get to play once a week, Saturday mornings, as you know. One thing we need to know is this, do you have any idea why you disconnect so much?
That would be very disruptive, especially if it happened in combat or in a social situation with consequences. Try and do everything you can to look into/fix that problem, okay?
Might be a good idea to start posting character ideas. Sorry folks...I'm the fighter for this one!
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Regarding David joining: It's ok with me. Let's see how it goes.
Regarding DMing LB1: In addition to my listed house rules above, for LB1 I'll allow...
- PFRPG 20 point buy
- Bonus Regional Feat from RotRL
- Optionally, you can take one Flaw from Unearthed Arcana, which gives you another bonus feat.
- Weapon Groups
- Standard wealth (PFRPG), no items over 1/4 total wealth (from any source you like)
- We'll have to discuss allowed classes outside PFRPG for those that want to get fancy :)
- I'd like to use my app for it. If when the time draws near we find someone would prefer not to/can't install it, we can stick with MapTool *snif*
As the Edit timer will inevitably run out on this post, I will likely assemble a new full post and thread when the time approaches.
Well...my way too detailed character for LB1 is finished and should be in Pygon's email at this point. Wakeful nights are annoying...but productive apparently.
What are the rest of you going to play in that adventure?
RPG Superstar 2011 Top 32
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Well...my way too detailed character for LB1 is finished and should be in Pygon's email at this point. Wakeful nights are annoying...but productive apparently.
What are the rest of you going to play in that adventure?
I don't know.
Maybe a grim Paladin....who really lives on the borderline of LG (or perhaps one of the variant Paladins). A bounty hunter of sorts, that fights primarily using a heavy repeating crossbow. (Think cross between Jonah Hex and Solomon Kane.) A slayer of the wicked, whose means bring him to the edge of wickedness himself.
Or....a large kukri wielding monk inspired by Asajj Ventress
Something more physically inclined than spell-oriented, to play someone different from Obasi.
EDIT: Although, I typically take whatever the party really seems to need once everyone else has chosen the classes they really have a burning desire to play, and try to create an interesting character from that point.
I personally prefer players to play what they want. I don't usually go with the whole 'standard party make-up'. I tailor things a bit (or a lot, if necessary).
Ask Pygon though. I made a fighter, so do whatever floats your boat should be cool.
Btw, my fighter has a Heavy Repeater as well, but its more of a fire and forget weapon than anything else.
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RPG Superstar 2011 Top 32
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Btw, my fighter has a Heavy Repeater as well, but its more of a fire and forget weapon than anything else.
Hmmm, well we don't need TWO people like that in the party then. :)
Back to the drawing board.
I'm coming up with something fairly out there....let me run it by Pygon and see what he thinks.
So much has happened in a few hours, it feels like I haven't written in this journal for days.
Only moments after speaking with Obasi about his findings in the documents (sadly, nothing about elves, and I will reveal nothing else here), Olen came to the door and introduced us to Amyrta. She's quite the oddity. A bald female dwarf professed in hand to hand combat. Our introduction was, for lack of a better word, less than customary. It will take some time for this bruise to heal.
In any case, shortly afterwards, another knock came at the door. One of Justilar's associates offered us a business proposition about the documents. I turned him down and he left. Quickly, Obasi concealed us all under invisibility. He stayed with the items while we followed our visitors. We trailed them to an alley where they entered a door guarded by a couple of Justilar's men. We tried to listen inside, and got some information which I also will not reveal here. Justilar finally emerged with his eight man guard, and they left in formation.
Suddenly the sound of an explosion and fire ripped into the night. We followed Justilar towards the disturbance and found the inn in flames! I ran inside to check on Obasi, and apparently he had been attacked by the orc and halfling we saw at the auction shortly after we left.
After questioning them (those charm spells do admittedly come in handy), we discovered that they had spied on us outside Roegar's tent, tortured him for information and that the halfling had transformed him in some way. Justilar's men also had Mithral Scarlet taken hostage. If they had mutilated Roegar (which we sadly saw for ourselves before Olen put him out of his misery), we couldn't waste any time letting them torture Mithral. So we set off to the warehouse to rescue her.
Obasi and I waited outside watching for alerts while Amyrta and Olen investigated the place. Sadly I was discovered and a flaming beast was sent after me. I was getting burned alive until I concealed myself with an invisibility potion and told Obasi to do the same. But that wasn't our only foe. An arrow flew near me and missed, and a I saw a female elf there trying to speak to me. I dared not show her where I was. She ordered the fire creature to kill the others, and it barreled towards the building where Obasi was already running.
The creature tore through the doors and began to light the place ablaze. We managed to pull Mithral free and escape before the entire building went up in flames. Fortunately, as I had suspected, the creature was summoned and could only exist for a short time. Olen had been cut down but saved by some healing. I saw a cloaked figure get away, the same fellow we saw at the auction - Obasi's enemy.
All of us are now in this temple, resting after being healed by the priestesses. Mithral is recuperating. We will speak to her about her ordeal in the morning.
I'm not certain what to do about Neferet. I can't trust her with her near threatening of my life. Beyond those concerns, I would have to be hard pressed to wish to put her in a position where she would know too much about what we've discovered. Clearly, those who want these documents are willing to kill for them, or worse.
Session 4
Arodus 1 (Late Night), 4708 AR
Resting at the Grand Temple of Sarenrae in central Sothis, our heroes quickly dropped into an exhausted slumber. Their wounds tended, their bellies filled, they knew the first few moments of peace since they reached the Land of the Pharaohs.
Arodus 2, 4708 AR
Waking early due to the Temple rising with the dawn to give praise to the Dawnflower, the heroes took their meal while discussing what to do. During their discussion a priestess arrived bearing a message that had been delivered.
Written in Elven and addressed to Allerund Lastri the message said only this: The Black Reliquary, Sapa the Crook Bearer
Beneath this lay a stylized arrow rune
Immediately suspicious, and relatively certain that the Black Reliquary must be the Crook Bearer's private collection, the group decided to use the hours of daylight to investigate the Sothis Exhibitionary instead. Arriving shortly after the museum opened at noon, the party made quick study of the exhibits.
Obasi, in the midst of his searching for the mask came across an old map that just might be the key to finding the location of the pyramid of the Four Pharaohs! Allerund and Olen ran into Neferet/Lonicera while she was perusing another exhibit. Incensed that they had not met with her as yet to share the documents they purchased with her help, she confronted them with harsh words. Realizing though, that likely she was being subjected to well placed suspicion, she decided to tell them the truth, if they would listen. To prove it, she showed them the Replica Mask here at the Exhibitionary, mentioning that it was not genuine. Obasi was called over to make a quick study of it and also determined it a fake, however well made and valuable.
Realizing the need to speak in private, the group agreed to meet with Lonicera in an hour at the Ziggurat of Nethys in central Sothis. Once she had left, Allerund was called over to look at the map Obasi had found. Using clues from the charcoal rubbings, the map made an interesting sense. It took some thinking, but eventually revealed what they believe to be the way to the Valley of the Pyramid of Ascension.
Meeting Lonicera at the Ziggurat, she ushered them into a room that she had lent from the clergy for study. In privacy, she told them of her role with Julistar expedition. Imploring them to share information with her regardless of the danger, she found herself subject to the suspicion of the group. Allerund and the others refused to let her see the documents because of her affiliation. They did let her know small bits of information, but nothing that would be of any use to Julistar should she return to him with it.
She, in contrast, tried to earn the trust of the heroes. She told them of where Julistar and the Expeditionary is staying, alarming and unsettling Obasi most especially. The Expeditionary taking shelter with the corrupt magistrate Khelden did not sit well with the normally well-balanced Sorcerer.
After telling Lonicera to keep out of the way and hidden, lest Julistar realize that she had betrayed secrets to the enemy, the party left to do reconnaissance at the estate of the Crook Bearer. Arriving outside of his large oasis-estate, just outside of Sothis, in the early afternoon, they decided to take a 'close' look.
Using Invisibility magics, Olen scaled the wall of the estate and began to study the Black Reliquary. Finding the doors too well guarded to try unlocking with his picks or magic, he used instead his Cayden granted ability to step through dimensions. He leapt through the basalt walls directly onto a Spectral Scorpion trap. His eyes going wide, the trap thankfully did not strike true and faded unceremoniously. Blinking in the gloom and noting the trailing eddies of magical energy in various parts of the room, Olen proceeded cautiously. Using a Message spell to stay in contact, Olen was on the verge of turning back until the others could join him when he spotted the mask!
Seeing that it lay beyond only one trap as he saw it, it was too tempting a target for him to wait. Moving to the edges of the swirling magic of the abjuration, Olen looked for a way to perhaps bypass or negate the trap. Seeing the method, he attempted to bypass it. Just then a large razor-toothed gecko leapt upon his shoulder, Olen slipped, triggering the trap. Startled, the gecko fled up the stone walls as the Spectral scorpion materialized and struck. Unlike the first, this one struck true, piercing Olen in the thigh and pumping in its magical venom.
His limbs turning as responsive as stone, Olen tried to stagger away or heal himself, but he body betrayed him, becoming locked in place. His lifeblood continued to pump freely from the thigh wound given by the scorpion...something vital must have been pierced. And yet, he could not move...only watch himself slowly die from exsanguination.
Contact through the message spell having been lost, the rest of the party quickly formed a plan. With invisibility magics cast all around, they quickly ascended the wall. All save Obasi, who made it to the top, only to awkwardly fall back to the ground outside. Groping around for help, Allerund gave him a hand in ascending the wall. Using a summoned
Giant Bombardier Beetle acting as though an interloper from the outer desert as a distraction, they tried to gain access to the Reliquary.
Amyrta tried her crowbar, but the thick iron doors and strong lock held. Obasi moved in and used acid on the lock in an attempt to weaken it. Slowly melting the lock began to quickly take too much time as the beetle then was butchered by the guards. Stepping behind one of the nearby Date-palms, Obasi summoned another before the guards could react upon the strange effect of a summoned creature being dismissed. More puzzled than anything by a Blinking Beetle, for so it appeared, the guards rushed it. With a final creak the door finally was pried open, Olen standing woozily in a pool of blood, the many layers of abjurative magics making his position clear.
Acting with alacrity, the group used another of Obasi's summoned animals, this time two celestial greyhounds to probe for traps. Two more of the Scorpions were triggered but failed to harm the dogs. Quickly then giving a potion to the nearly dead Olen and grabbing the mask from the wall, our heroes made a quick escape using the dogs as a distraction. All of this would have worked so much better but for the clumsy sorcerer falling off the wall again. With much in the way of chuckling from the others, he was helped over the wall, and they were away into the city. This time with the mask and knowledge of the map that should lead them to the Pyramid of Ascension. For once, it seemed that they might actually be ahead of Julistar and his cronies!
Through the information gleaned from the old maps at the Sothis Exhibitionary and the Charcoal Rubbings, you were able to ascertain this location for the Pyramid of Ascension and its Valley.
Please do not click on the Red section around the Pyramids. Thanks guys.
Date: It's ... 4708 (I can't keep track of these damn fool days/months - why can't they have a proper timekeeper in human lands!)
After sailing upriver to Sothis, I went looking for Mithral Scarab (helluva name for a human) as the Venture Captain requested. Seems my muscles were needed for some guard work, as three of my fellow Pathfinders may have got themselves in over their heads. (I think the Captain is trying to get one in the sack - why doesn't she just throw him over his shoulder and be done with it? He's just a skinny elf after all.)
I arrived not a moment too soon - that eel Paracooter - Paracount Julistar was raising a ruckus and trying to get some documents that Obasi and Allerund had purchased at some fancy auction. While Olen, Allerund and I followed Julistar's lackey back to their room, Obasi decided to set the inn on fire.
I mean try and stop the halfling from setting the inn on fire. I think Obasi is over-fond of his magics. He did some mojo on the half-orc we captured (after he and the halfling tried to kill Obasi) and what do you know, suddenly he's best of friends with Obasi! Turns out he's a mercenary for Julistar and he was about ready to spill the goods when the halfling got all lippy. I had to introduce the halfling to my fist. Turns out Miss Scarab got herself kidnapped, and there ain't no way I was going to explain that to the Venture Captain.
We figured we'd go check out this warehouse that the half-orc talked about and see if Scarab was there, and Olen and I had the place all cased out, just like my master taught me. We pin the back door shut when we see some guards hanging around in the room, Olen takes a peek in another window. Turns out Scarab was indeed there (along with some very unfriendly folk) but that's when the fire beastie showed up. Olen had hopped in doing some sort of vanishing trick - next to me one second and in the room the next. I'm anxiously waiting outside when I hear screams and whatnot and the guards come running out the back door after finally getting it open - but I'm ready for 'em. Those bracers I picked up in Absalom are really handy - they fall over like an axe-felled tree and I run in to see what's up. Olen's in a bad way, surrounded by guards and a mean-looking individual with one of them big scimitar swords that was wailing on Olen.
Obasi is a magnet for fire, I think - he seems to get in the most trouble when it's involved. Obasi lets the beastie chase him into the warehouse. A warehouse filled with oil-cloth wrapped antiques. This did not end well, as you might imagine. Half the building's on fire, Scarab is gettin' beat on, Olen is down, and I got this fire beast breathing on me. What to do? What I came to do - I start attacking it, hoping that I can take it down before it takes me down. Luckily before we got too far with that, it disappears. I grab Olen and make sure Scarab is out and high tail it out the rear exit.
This is so awesome! Thanks for sending me the links!
Reads like you guys are having a blast. I am most jealous. I'm glad to see Yasha is putting you all through the paces. (Major detailing too)
It sounds like Olen had a dramatically close call there – but Daigle must be pretty impressed that he had the foresight to use that message spell! Level 0 saves the day again!
Also it sounds like Eye Bite has some serious subplot action going on. It will be neat to watch Obasi develop. Hope you don't mind if I eavesdrop.
How are you all liking the new rules?
Please do, eavesdrop all you like Ask A Shoanti! I am quite honored that you have come to read our humble journal. Any commentary and notes you have to add would be most appreciated.
As for the 'extra' character developments I have been doing...here are some secrets for Ask A Shoanti's Eyes Only...(or other lurkers, just not the Players!)
1) I am getting some information about what sort of devil that Eyebite has envisioned Karnekh to be so that I can start weaving that plot into the story of both this adventure and J4 as well. A nice way, other than the obvious to tie them both together.
2) Allerund is seeking some kind of Elven connection in this adventure. It really wasn't gone into too much detail in the character profile, but the in game conversations have really knocked home how interested in this backplot that Pygon's character is. Hence, enter my old PC (from 2nd Edition) Daile Talenthias. The fact that she is also an archer makes her an exceptionally great nemesis (or perhaps ally? Is she really leaving him clues?) in the story.
3) I am still toying around with more ways to get something serious involved for Olen or Amyrta. Olen has a rather fun backstory going with him taunting his uncle...otherwise..I think I need more time to work up something interesting. That probably won't happen until the downtime interlude I give Olen after the completion of J1 and before starting J4 proper.
4) Tying in the stuff with corrupt official, ties to Cheliax, and Cheliax wanting to prove a connection between House Thrune and the Fiend Pharaoh is of course inspired by your mentioning of that motivation, Ask A Shoanti. I am playing up the angle of Cheliax and House Thrune having a specific interest in this information and how beneficial it might be for Julistar. My way of seeing it is this, if Julistar can find concrete proof of the connection, House Thrune can start issues and turmoil brewing in Osirion if they put forward an long-forgotten descendant of one of the Four Pharaohs of Ascension. Cheliax does have imperial designs after all...and manipulation does seem to be House Thrune's strong point.
Thanks again for join us here Ask A Shoanti!
Oh...and when Eyebite runs W2 River into Darkness, I will most likely play a Shoanti character of some sort. I was planning on this before you came...but now I certainly will! Shoanti are absolutely awesome!
Awesome - I'll totally be by for some quality lurking. I don't expect I'll say too much as I don't want to mess with your sandcastle!
But. . . [Spoiler tag to protect from the players]
As to number 4 (the Fiend Pharaoh/Cheliax connection)- that's totally one possibility of where I was hoping things would head with Paracount Julistar and it's even a little bit like one of the original concepts for "The Pact Stone Pyramid". Great minds I say!
Lilith! You need billing in the thread title. : ) Your dwarven monk is awesome!
We've decided to remain unseen until the sun sets, then we will begin our journey to our destination.
This morning, while speaking to Mithral in the temple, I received a curious note which I believe to have come from my mysterious female elven associate. It was directing me to the Black Reliquary, one of the possible holding places of a mask we required. The bottom of the note has a stylish arrow rune on it. I'm not certain of the origin of this symbol, but I will be wary of it. What is even stranger is why this individual is attempting to assist me after trying to kill me and my comrades with the fire creature she summoned.
While investigating one of the masks in the museum, who should we happen upon but Neferet herself. She accused me of robbing her of her money, but I politely reminded her that I had not yet broken our appointment. She acted as though her own life was in danger. After meeting with her later, she told us that Justilar's interest in the Pyramid may be related to his own possible blood relation with the Pharaohs. She also mentioned he had summoning supplies. What is he planning to do? Certainly nothing of anyone's benefit but to himself, or that vile nation he fares from. I cannot risk her safety or our own mission by involving her directly. I should find a way to compensate her for her loss. Shame that she couldn't even be honest about her name. She is intelligent, and confirmed that the mask in the museum was false.
We mounted an attempt to scout the location of the mask in the Reliquary, but Olen, in his typical way, follied into trouble, forcing us to improvise a rescue. At least we acquired the mask more quickly than I expected.
Obasi and I retrieved our valuable items, and Amyrta and Olen checked on the two thieves we questioned. Hopefully, they will not be a problem to us on our journey. We have replenished our travel supplies, and the Pathfinders were generous enough to provide us with mounts and protective clothing against the elements. But before we travel, we will wait until nighttime to make it easier for us. We will stay in tents during the day.
As I sit here writing my thoughts, listening to the others speak, dwelling on the events of the past few days, I find my focus changing. I considered this a frivolous exercise after realizing I may find little information on lost elvish history at the pyramid. But my required participation in our task has been drawing me into a greater sense of immediacy. Perhaps it is just a certain amount of exhaustion setting in. For that matter, it could be this wine. I believe this mission is beginning to draw me away from the goals I set for myself in years past. Are my intentions just as mutable as those of my people? I must not let it interfere. I will complete this task as required by my Venture Captain and continue with future missions as the Pathfinders expect. It is my best hope of traveling to forgotten places and re-discovering lost histories of the elves - so that I can determine where we belong, and most of all, how wrong they were to do as they have done. I am certain that when I am finished here and have redevoted myself to my goal, my resolve will only have strengthened. And I will know better how to prevent such a loss of focus. Such a thing in itself, no doubt, would be of great use to the elves.
Session 5, part 1
2 Arodus, 4708 AR
Returning from their brazen robbery of the Black Reliquary...our fortunate heros carried a still frozen Olen to the edge of the West Marketplace, where the hid invisibly for the paralysis to wear off. After recovering and expending some of their strength to heal themselves, they took some time to decide what to do. Not wanting to leave loose ends untied...Amyrta and Olen went to speak to Beechum at the Overlander's Emporium to make sure Hrokan and Xaven were still hidden amongst the bottles in the cellar. In the meanwhile, Obasi and Allerund went to the Vault of Abadar and recovered both their valuable documents and the high-quality forgeries they had made. This accomplished, they left Father Mikhail and headed off to Krenshar Manor as they had arranged beforehand with Amyrta and Olen.
At the Overlander, Beechum assured Amyrta and Olen that Hrokan and Xaven were still safely ensconced in the wine cellar. Apparently, when Hrokan tried to get violent, the doughty innkeeper gave him a sound thrashing with a teak cudgel. Otherwise there were no incidents or suspicious visitors that had come by.
Elsewhere....
Informed by the network of paid spies operating in Sothis, Paracount Julistar was informed of the robbery of the Black Reliquary and their likely retrieval of the Funeral Mask. Julistar turned to Magistrate Khelden.
"What can you do at this point Khelden?" said Julistar, scorn ringing in his voice.
The elderly Magistrate turned his milky eyes towards Julistar, his voice croaking "There is nothing I can do Paracount...not if your spies nor mine can find them. Should they try to move openly in Sothis, I will have them."
All of them meeting at Krenshar Manor gave them a few moments respite and a chance to replenish their supplies from the Pathfinders there. Deciding it would be best to travel by night, they made quick preparations after resting for the remainder of the afternoon. At sunset, mounting camels laden with the requested supplies, our heroes quickly quit Sothis for the desert. Guided by the waxing gibbous moon, they rode deep into the desert, towards the dawn.
Elsewhere....
The servant came running into the grand parlor of Magistrate Khelden's manor, breathing heavily labored. The eunuch held out a folded piece of papyrus towards Julistar.
Eyeing the man with disdain, Julistar took the proferred note and read it slowly at first, then more quickly.
He barked out "They've been seen! Leaving Sothis astride camels, headed into the deep desert. Daile, Scepter! Get the men. We ride within the hour. We have to catch them before they get too far."
Croaking through his wounded throat...Khelden spat "Kemesarian...go with them. Bring me their heads."
Arodus 3 (Dawn), 4708 AR
Come the dawning light in the east...our heroes beheld a truly awe-inspiring sight. Beautific in its destructive power...a Black Khamsin of the deep desert loomed over the Underdunes...
Flashing heat-lightning illuminating many violent cyclones of flaying sand and rock, thick clouds of blowing grit...a storm in which noone could survive. Deciding they should rest before attempting to make passage through the Khamsin, our heroes wisely avoided the sinkholes of some Antlions that Allerund had noticed, and camped with their tents in the lee of a large boulder. Little did they know they were closely persued. While they began to take their rest...Scepter and half of the remaining mercenaries began to close in while all the others were trying to find some way to bypass the Khamsin without going completely around the Underdunes. In the north...a distant winged shape flew towards near that same spot...hunting in the dunes at the edge of the Khamsin.
After setting up their camp and setting themselves to rest, the stalwart Amyrta offered to take the first watch for the treacherous Expeditionary. The wise warrior-monk saw movement on one of the large rocks to the south of their tents. Her keen eyes caught a fleeting glimpse of Scepter taking cover behind a spar of rock that rose from the stand of boulders. Moving slowly back from the opening of the tent, she also saw a man, recognizable as a Chelish Mercenary from his dusty uniform near the rocks to the west. Quietly, she shook Allerund awake and warned him. As he looked and caught sight of Scepter as well, she slipped out of the back of the tent and woke Obasi and Olen. Thus alerted...they prepared to ambush the ambushers.
As one of the mercs broke cover to sprint towards the large boulder the tents lay near, Allerund took his shot and feathered the man with an arrow. Faltering, the merc still managed to stumble behind the rock. Obasi and Olen both slip out of the back of the tents, trying to circle around the enemy. Knowing the surprise lost, Scepter set down his Wand Rifle to select a scroll. Reading the arcana words aloud, he covered the near rocks and the tents in thick, sticky webs.
(Note that both Amyrta and Allerund, the two characters in the webs, both made their saves)
The spell vanishing from the scroll, Scepter used his magically enhanced speed to run down the front of the rock formation, trying to get close enough to use his Wand Rifle.
Knowing they were expected to be caught, Allerund leapt out of the webs and fired an arrow that thudded into Scepter's ribs, making the former Pathfinder stumble. Trying to surprise Allerund again, Scepter shouted out eldritch words and called a man-sized globe of flame into being right next to Allerund before ordering it to light the webs afire! Olen and Amyrta both groaned as their possessions started burning...again. The mercenary who was guarding Scepter ran from behind the rocks only to find the ground moving and sliding beneath him. Screaming in terror, he was dragged and slipped down towards the gnashing mandibles of the great Antlion below.
Having been unnoticed leaving the back of the tent, Obasi took the chance to invoke a spell of invisibility upon himself, followed by a spell of enchanted flight. Taking to the air, he flew to just over Scepter, trying to decide what fate to visit upon the traitorous former Pathfinder. Before he could act though, he noticed a large winged shape flying in from the southwest...using a Message spell, he sent word of what he saw across the winds to Allerund, warning him.
Engaging the mercenaries that tried to ambush them, Amyrta began to put the fear of bald dwarven women into them. Her kama struck like a cobra, its fang bloodied and keen. Olen stood back, calling magical water into existence to try and douse the fire the consumed the webs so greedily. Scepter meanwhile was struck a glancing blow by another of Allerund's arrows and fired his Wand Rifle while dodging the arrows, blasting at Allerund with a spear of magical flame! His flesh be singed, Allerund tried to dance away as the sphere of flame that set the webs alight also tried to burn him. His heel catching on an ancient cactus root caught Allerund up though and the sphere rolled over him, blistering his skin.
At this point Obasi had had enough. Point his hand down at Scepter, Obasi unleashed a great blast of flame. As the flames flashed out, Scepter took a stumbling step before falling limply to the ground...his hair smoldering. The mercenaries, seeing their leader fall, quickly decided to flee. Amyrta, not being one to accept such cowardice, chased the men fleeing to the west...the one who fled east was not so lucky...he was pounced upon by the fierce Heiracosphinx that swooped from the sky! Acting quickly, before it turned its voracious hunger on them, Allerund let fly with arrows at the Sphinx, pricking its hide. Hoping to end it quickly, the still flying Obasi turned and blasted it with his flame spell! (Fireball, again. The Sphinx failed the save...nice damage)
Turning from its scorched meal...the sphinx gathered its hind legs and lept into the air, claws outstretched. Obasi attempted to move aside, yet wasn't fast enough. The sphinx gouged his flesh and carved runnels into him as it flew past. More arrows were fired...but Obasi ended the beast as he unleashed a final blast of flame against it...sending it plummeting to the sands like a meteor. (another good damage fireball...another failed save)
Next...the aftermath...
Session 5, part 2 of 2
3 Arodus (Broken Dawn), 4708 AR
The howling wind does not cease...the cry of the black Khamsin, the killer storm of the deep desert. Sand and grit mixed with the smoke still smoldering from their singed tents, our heros take a few moments to stand quietly...realizing that battle is over. The crackle of the burning sphinx...barely heard over the windblown sands...
After they had finished divesting their vanquished foes of their valuables, the group fell to discussing what to do with the one survivor, Scepter. He lay near to death...his only saving grace in that the fire did not spill his blood and actually sealed the wounds he'd had. Now his fate must be decided. After a few moments of philosophical arguements and what would be most practical, Obasi grabbed Scepter by the foot and dragged him over to one of the antlion pits...and simply threw him in, his face grim. As he returned, for a brief moment a strange look came over Obasi's face, one of satisfaction. This smirk that began to form was washed from his face by the gut-wrenching screams that Obasi began to make as he collapsed.
Trying to determine what was wrong...and having seen another such episode once before with Obasi, Olen attempted to cast a Protection from Evil to cast out any unnatural influences. While Olen did this Allerund stepped back, out of his element, and Amyrta uncorked a bottle of holy water to annoint him with. As Olen finished his spell, to spectacularly little effect, a jubilant smile broke across Obasi's face...just as Amyrta splashed the holy water on him.
The holy water smoked and burned as thought acid! Screaming in pain and horror, Obasi collapsed to his knees again...a few moments later...he seemed recovered and rational. Perhaps this is only another example of the eccentricities of sorcerers.
While Obasi recovered...the wind spoke to Allerund...somehow...words of warning.
Taking heed, Allerund had them move their camp to a new site to escape any coming menace. They rested the remainder of the day, trusting in the tall formations of rock that jutted from the desert sands to keep their tents under shelter and hidden from any other prying eyes. When night later fell, they moved onwards towards the edge of the Khamsin. As they did so, the storm intensified with each further step. Strange, ethereal shapes could be seen moving amongst the clouds and sand with an unmistakable semblance of life. Then came the howling wall...the edge of the fiercest part of the storm...perhaps acting on intuition, perhaps some form of divine guidance, a strange androgynous creature stepped from the storm. Pale of hair and dark of skin....it was neither male, nor female and yet it was breathtakingly beautiful. It called Amyrta "Maskbearer" and told her she must use it to forge ahead. Amyrta then chose to put on the Funeral Mask of the Four Pharaohs. Looking dazedly at the sights and vistas laid bare before her eyes, it took her a minute to realize that the storm was parting for them.
Explaining quickly to her companions, they quickly formed up on her position and trusted her to lead them. As they progressed, strange and inhuman shapes began to stop in their churning and warring against one another in order to look at the passing mask. A mask that had not been brought here in over 50 years.
Moving quickly and putting the strange spirits of the storm out of mind, they moved on. As the day wore to nearly sunset, they crested the final hill that hid the Valley of the Setting Sun from them. Below was an ancient and unchanged vista. Amongst rocky grounds there stood four small pyramids laid out in a square. Approaching these lesser structures, through the crystalline lenses of the Funeral Mask, Amyrta saw an alien landscape of ever-shifting sands and a great veinstone Pyramid! As her steps took her closer and closer....the air between the smaller pyramids began to waver, like heat emanating from sand, baking in the sun. The waver grew into an eerie warping of the sky behind it until the phantasmogorical pyramid began to shimmer into existence on this plane.
Reconnoitering around the pyramid, the group finally determined that the entry shaft was about 2/3rds of the way up on the West face. Utilizing Obasi's magic of flight, they made their way to the shaft, one by one. Clambering onto the opening, they faced an entry tunnel extending into the darkness. Amyrta taking the lead to see with her darkvision, they passed nearly 250 feet down into the pyramid before the tunnel leveled out. At this juncture was a strange archway marked by five heiroglyphs, the central one largest and set proper. Ignoring them as a tomb warning and hoping they are not part of the curse, they moved deeper into the pyramid, unsuspecting.
Session 6 Part 1
3 Arodus (Time Unknown)
Having slowly moved down into the shaft, our cautious heroes did not use lights and relied upon the Darkvision provided by Amyrta to lead their way. The long shadows cast by distant sunlight coming down the shaft was hardly of any note, barely giving Allerund light enough, by which to see.
Coming to the Junction of Pillars, Amyrta peered slowly around the corner, first hearing, then spotting the linen wrapped horror pacing the back reaches of the hall carrying a bow.Slipping back quickly, she informed the others. Moving back to watch the walking dead thing, she saw it disappear from sight, moving down a side corridor. Perhaps foolishly, light, both magical and mundane was produced so that they might strike off down the right hall and to the stairs, away from the mummy.
Noticing the light, Seraton the Accursed fitted arrow to the string and hearing the scuffling steps of his quarry moved to the Hall of Pillars and fired upon them. A furious exchange quickly followed. Only having the briefest chance to use his bow, Seraton was forced to use his scabrous hands to claw at the interlopers, to little effect. These intrepid adventurers were greatly warded against him. With little protest, he fell to their assault. The sound of the battle, so close to the Climb of Kahotep drew another menace to the region. The Crystalline Leaper.
It slipped along the walls and ceiling with great ease, being noticed only a scant second before it struck, leaping by to snap jaws of sharp crystal upon Amyrta before scuttling away. Its movement also brought it into the light, whereby it began to shed a haunting light, dazzling the eyes of those who beheld it. The battle that followed was one of frustrations and bedevilment. The leaper moved in with snapping jaws, scuttling or leaping away before the could close with it, using the walls and ceiling to move without regard to their restrictions. Eventually, Olen proved his worth yet again, by using Shattering magics against it. He was unable to kill it, but he was able to drive it off with the others help before anyone, other than Obasi was blinded by its brilliance.
Sighing in relief as it fled back into the shaft from whence it came, the heroes moved to check on Obasi, who in his blindness had moved a bit into the entry shaft. Then came the blast of heated air and the roar of flame from the shaft. Moving quickly, they saw the smoking and charred remains of a pair of Chelish mercenaries near the archway. Even in his blindness, Obasi had heard these men and released his greatest magics on them. Before they could pull Obasi from the corridor, a large arrow thudded into his shoulder from far back in the shaft. Frantically moving back into the Hall of Pillars, they set a firm watch of the Entry Shaft, throwing a magically lit coin down to the location of the archway...so that they might see anyone coming down towards the hall. This accomplished, they set off to investigate the other chambers on the Entry Level. Finding the Chamber of Numbers (Area 4) and the wealth of Hieroglyphs and sigils coating walls, floor and ceiling...they decided to wait on such study for fear of the power of the Encircled Runes.
Suddenly able to see again, Obasi decided to investigate the room that Olen was clearing the wax from. Once the door was unsealed, the ancient resin pried from the door, it swung easily open....revealing a chamber filled with carven shelves of stone. Upon these shelves, many many Canopic Jars, 56 to be exact. Taking down a few of these, Obasi urged caution. He took merely some samples to take back to Absalom with him. Retreating from the room, they briefly discussed their options, investigate the Hieroglyph room? Or go into the shaft. Also, which way, up or down?
Unfortunately, they missed the Swarms of Embalmed Organs. I was hoping for it...but they missed it. Oh well.
Session 6, Part 2
Arodus 3 (Time Unknown), 4708 AR
Moving down the stairs to the landing that overlooks the sharply sloping shaft...a low scraping sound echoed up from below. Watching warily, our heroes kept a sharp eye for the crystalline creature that they encountered, not sure on whether the thing had gone up the shaft or down. After a few moments wait, a great snake headed statue came up the shaft pushing a platform before it. This platform and the steps of the giant undeniably the source of the grating noise.
Seeing something familiar about the statue, but immediately suspicious when it stopped at their level, they spent a few moments studying it. At almost the exact same moment, Obasi and Allerund realized that the statue looked identical to the bronze figurine they had bought at the auction two days ago. Allerund and Obasi quickly stepped onto the platform to investigate further when it began to rise again! Olen and Amyrta quickly leap on before it could leave them behind.
After only a few moments of experimentation, Obasi figured out the proper method by which to command mighty Kahotep. As the platform rose, in the darkness above, Amyrta spotted the crystalline menace scuttling down the wall at them and quickly shouted warning! Obasi quickly ordered the Golem to begins going downwards, away from the troublesome creature. As they descended, Amyrta watched the creature with her night-eyes and saw that it would not pass the landing to the Entry Floor. It merely watched them descend a moment, then turned and retreated upward.
Nearly 15 minutes later, they finally reached the bottom of the shaft. The pace of the plodding golem making the ride seem longer than it was. At the bottom of the shaft they saw before them a small landing and stairs leading up a gentle incline, some flickering light filtering down them. Moving to investigate the light, our heroes came across a sight of an incredible treasure! A river of gold coins and treasure, set into channels of pure veinstone. A truly imperial treasure. Everburning torches lit the room at the midpoint of each wall, leaving only the central portion of the room in shadows. Even that region was vaguely visible due to flickering blue light there.
Moving around to get a better look, they split up, two each going each way. Once Amyrta and Allerund used their keen sight to discern that a sarcophagus lay upon a small island in the gold, they saw movement in the coins....sharklike and predatory. Preparing themselves as the thing swam through the gold....they were unprepared when a dragon the size of a carriage burst from the coins, its body shrivelled and wrapped in age-darkened linens. Moving like a striking snake, Tukanem-Hanam coughed out a bolt of lightning, then turned its jaws on the nearby, startled dwarf-woman. Shaking off their stupor, the heroes began to fling spell, arrow and fist at the creature, to little avail, its embalmed toughness proving great against the onslaught.
A fierce battle raged there in the burial chamber of Anok Fero, the Cerulean Pharaoh. Dipping beneath the gold and moving to burst free elsewhere gave Tukanem an advantage, but with the keen eyes of our heroes, they took such time to heal their wounds and prepare for its next emergence. All went well at first, the dragon did not wound anyone too mightily until it managed to catch Amyrta, Allerund and Olen with its thuderous breath. Wounding everyone mightily, it then buried its fangs into Amyrta, the force of the blow rendering the tough dwarf unconcious. Moving back and diving under the gold yet again the dragon vanished. Taking his chance, Olen quickly healed his companions while the dragon remaneuvered. Hoping to end the menace, Obasi began to pepper the dragon with Fireballs and magic missiles whenever it poked out its scaled head. Slowly, their combined efforts began to show in the increasingly more ragged corpse-flesh of the mummified Tukanem.
This time when it rose, Olen and Amyrta charged the beast while Allerund feathered its body with arrows and Obasi blasted at it with magic. Buffeting the undead beast, even their greatest combined efforts could not fell it...dust and dessicated flesh falling from its frame...linens hanging limply...it trembled but did not fall. Flexing its crackling wings, Tukanem unleashed its full fury on the two mortals that so damaged its form. Claws raking, teeth tearing flesh, a snap of the wing, the bone-cracking smash of its tail...when done, left Olen reeling, bleeding from multiple wounds, and Amyrta the steadfast, in a pool of blood at the dragon's feet. Barely conscious...Amyrta uncorked and hurled a flask of Holy Water upon the beasts skull-like face. Smoking and burning from the purified water...the undead dragon stumbled from Amyrta's prone form to collapse across the gold and the stone.
Resolved to discover why this tomb was so greatly guarded...after resting and healing a bit, our heroes decided a full rest was needed, so greatly depleted were their stores. Searching the Dragon's wrappings, Olen found a Pectoral amulet in the linens between its horns, its magical nature unknown.
While investigating the Sarcophagus of the Cerulean Pharaoh, Olen and Amyrta discoved a hidden compartment. Withing were 11 blue scales of regular shape and 45 obsidian shards of irregular shape. Taking the pieces of Obsidian, Olen began to assemble them. As the last piece fell into place, he cast a spell of mending on it. It took him a moment to realize that he had just assembled the Encircled Rune of the Desert, which at that moment, looking over, both Amyrta and Obasi saw as well. Allerund did not see it quickly enough before Olen hurled the obsidian disk away in disgust. This didn't deter them from taking the treasure...only of not trying to piece together the blue scales.
Also while they rested, they heard a strange chiming sounds from the shaft, followed by a clanging of metal and a few thuds. A look in the shaft revealed the fallen bodies of three Chelish Mercenaries and the shards that had once made up the Crystalline Leaper.
End Session 6
Without further ado, the
Crystalline Leaper
Statistics follow in the spoiler
Crystalline Leaper (Gecko) CR 7
Advanced Crystalline Giant Gecko
(Advanced Bestiary pg. 48, Pathfinder #1 pg. 89)
Medium Elemental (Earth)
Init +8; Senses Perception +7.
Low-Light Vision, Darkvision 60ft.
Defense
AC 23, touch 17, flat-footed 18 (+4 dex, +6 natural, +2 deflection, +1 dodge)
hp 114 (17d8+34) Currently: 60
Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +4
Defensive Abilities
Immune: Critical Hits, Light-based effects, Poison, Sleep, Paralysis, Stunning
No Breath (Or sleep or eat)
Resist Acid 10, Fire 10, Cold 10, Electricity 10
DR 5/-
offence
Spd 40ft., Climb 40ft.
Melee Bite +14 (3d6+3 dam + Brilliant Pestilence)
Ranged None
Special Attacks Blinding Gaze (FDC 17), Dazzling Form, Brilliant Pestilence.
Statistics
Str 15, Dex 19, Con 14, Int 2, Wis 14, Cha 8
Base Atk +12; CMB +14
Feats Improved Initiative, Dodge, Mobility, Spring Attack, Improved Natural Attack x2
Skills Acrobatics +24, Climb +22, Perception +7, Stealth +14.
Languages None
SQ Damage Reduction 5/-, Immunity to Light, Empowered Gaze, Light Amplification, Low-light Vision, Resistances, Vulnerable to Sonic, Expert Leaper, Expert Climber, elemental traits.
Treasure Gorget of Protection +2
Skills: A Crystalline Leaper gains a +4 Racial bonus to Stealth whenever its Light Amplification ability is not emitting light due to its transparency. They also get a +8 Racial bonus on Climb and Acrobatic checks and can always take 10 on these checks.
-Immunity to Light (Ex): The Crystalline Leaper is completely immune to the harmful effects of bright light and spells of the 'Light' subschool. Subjecting one to these effects actually Empowers its gaze.
-Empowered Gaze (Ex): When subjected to a spell of the Light subtype the Crystalline Leaper's Blinding Gaze gains a +2 Circumstance bonus to Save DCs. DC
-Light Amplification (Ex): The body of a Crystalline Leaper naturally amplifies light that strikes it. When struck by light from any source, the light refracts, and the Crystalline Leaper begins emitting an equal intensity light. In Conditions of extremely bright light (such as a Daylight spell), the Crystalline Leaper gains a +2 Circumstance bonus to Save DCs for its Blinding Gaze.
-Vulnerable to Sonic (Ex): Being composed of a crystalline matrix, a Crystalline Leaper struck by a sonic effect takes double damage on a failed save and half damage on a successful one.
-Expert Leaper (Ex): Due to its abnormally structured body, legs and tail, the Crystalline Leaper has remarkable control over its own movement while airborne or in a precarious position. This gives the Crystalline Leaper a +8 bonus to Acrobatics checks.
-Expert Climber (Ex): Due to the unique structure of a Crystalline Leaper's footpads, it has remarkable facility with climbing. This allows them to climb over any surface. Treat this as a natural version of Spider Climb and grants a +8 bonus to Climb checks.
-Blinding Gaze (Su): The refraction of light inside of a Crystalline Leaper reaches painful levels when struck with bright lights. Looking for even a moment can blind anyone that looks. Beings within the radius of its Light Amplification ability or within 100 feet (if in conditions of bright light) are affected. This effect is permanent blindness.
-Dazzling Form (Ex): When illuminated (with all other accompanying effects), the Crystalline Leapers body reflects and refracts light throughout the area. Those within this area are Dazzled until they either close their eyes or leave the area
-Brilliant Pestilence (Su): Supernatural Disease. Any creature struck by a Crystalline Leapers natural attacks must make an FDC 15. This disease has an incubation period of 1 day and does 3d4 Dexterity Damage with each failed save. If the afflicted's Dex reaches 0 and is not cured within one more day, they become a Crystal Creature. All ability damage is immediately healed should this occur. Only a Wish or Miracle can reverse the transformation.
We are fortunate to still be alive.
Traveling the first night in the desert came and went without incident. However, as the sun rose and we prepared to make camp near some rocks, I noticed some strange depressions in the sand. Obasi had warned us about the antlions that live out here, so we were careful to place our tents away from them against the rocks.
But even our first attempt at rest could not take place without Justilar troubling us once again. Amyrta alerted me to some approaching thugs, so I readied my bow in my tent while she woke the others. I shot one as he ran from one rock to another, but our tents were suddenly choked with webs cast by Scepter on a distant hill. I stepped out through the webs and shot him with an arrow. He then cast a rolling ball of flame which lit the webs afire, threatening our tents. I quickly called for Olen's aid to quench the flames as Obasi and I continued to focus our attacks on Scepter. As he finally fell, a hieracosphinx dove from the sky and slaughtered one of the thugs. The others ran in fear. Not waiting for it to come after us, I immediately fired arrows at it. Obasi helped to down it as well. Its final death, falling from the sky as nothing more than a flaming mass, was nothing short of spectacular.
As Scepter lay unconscious in the desert sands, baking in the hot sun, we were faced with a dilemma. It would be inevitable that this menace would come after us again if we kept him alive, but I was hesitant to end his life myself. Obasi wasted no time shoving him into one of the antlion nests. In hindsight, I do regret this action, but I am uncertain what would have come of it otherwise. Obasi, on the other hand, was momentarily overtaken by some evil influence, apparently from sharing in the bloodshed. He had a similar attack at the mention of a leading magistrate of Sothis, someone he knows to be corrupt. It would be unfortunate if I was forced to turn my bow on him. We should be prepared to disable him without harm.
After the fight, I received a message on the wind from my elven associate. She warned me that I should hurry, that they are coming. Why is she helping me after trying to kill us at the warehouse? I will never trust her, and my continuing thoughts of her only bring me to anger.
I suggested we move the camp a few miles and finish our rest. Unfortunately, the winds had already covered Scepter's tracks, so we were unable to determine where he came from. So in any event it would have been unlikely to locate the enemy camp. I am most interested, however, in knowing how he found us in the first place. These enemies of ours possess the most annoying means of harassing us, most in that we seem to have no way to prevent it. Let the other thugs who fled feed the desert. They are fools for serving such vile ones.
After another day of travel, we finally came upon the Underdunes, where our destination lay. A gigantic sandstorm laced with green lightning blocked our path. Emerging from the swirling storm, a desert spirit danced towards Amyrta and whispered something to her. She donned the mask we stole and was able to lead us through the storm. Finally, we arrived at a valley where four stone pyramids were arranged in a square. Eventually the Pyramid of the Pharaohs appeared to us. Words could not do the sight justice.
We located the entrance far up one of the slopes, and Obasi carried us up one by one. The entrance had an archway marked with runes, but we were careful not to look at them. We simply proceeded forward into the pyramid. At an intersection, we momentarily spotted a mummy with a bow patrolling the hallway. We waited for it to move on, and we went the opposite way. We found a door with a slitted eye. While we were standing there, the mummy came back, saw us, and began attacking us with its bow. He was most easy to destroy. But then what should come after us but a crystalline lizard running on the walls. It was overly troublesome to drive off, especially since when it was illuminated by my torch, its reflection would become blinding, much to Obasi's misfortune.
Of course, our progress could not exclude once again being threatened by Justilar's men. Obasi, albeit blinded, was able to incinerate a few thugs as they charged at us from the entrance. We hid around the corner and watched, and they retreated. I would have hoped to lay a trap for them, but Amyrta reminded us that our task was to find the treasures. She is a credit to our efforts with her no-nonsense approach. We would of course now have to be vigilant at our backs as well as ahead of us.
I kept watch as the others investigated a room full of remains in jars. We also located a triangular shaft leading both up and down at an angle. A stone statue was serving as a platform on which to ride the shaft. It matched the appearance of the small statue we purchased at the auction for 1600gp. The runes on the statue represented “Up”, “Down” and “Stop” in ancient Osirion, and could command the statue. What a ridiculous price to have paid for a mere set of instructions.
Opting to head down, we could see the crystalline gecko far above us, watching us descend. We emerged into a large chamber with a circular pool of gold coins. A platform with a sarcophagus lay in the center. As we examined the chamber, I could see movement in the gold, as if it flowed, or something was burrowing underneath it. Suddenly, a mummified blue dragon exploded from below and unleashed its lightning upon me and Amyrta!
Obasi managed to pin it with a web spell as I shot my arrows at it furiously, Amyrta swiped at it and Olen worked to keep us alive. It retreated under the coins, and we positioned ourselves for the next assault. I moved against the wall with bow in hand, but Olen and Amyrta formed a line with me! Before I could tell the dolts to separate, the beast raised up and blasted all three of us with its lightning! I was struck hard and was forced to retreat and heal with some potions, and Olen once again labored to heal Amyrta's wounds. My arrows continued to miss, far too often. I suspect the beast had some protective spells, but no attempt was made to remove them. Obasi continued to bring down fire spell after fire spell to weaken it. With Olen and Amyrta nearly dead with the creature lashing at them with teeth, claw, wing and tail, I must admit I was about to call upon my father for the strength to vanquish the weakened beast. But as it charged Olen, Amyrta struck it with a vial of holy water and finally destroyed it! I must remind myself that it is my own abilities that see me through my own trials. My lack of resolve is most unsettling. Then again, I know very few that have faced such trials as this. Amyrta, on the other hand, handles herself with much bravery. Perhaps it would be prudent to tell her so.
We have sealed the entrance to this chamber by ordering the statue to rise then stop. We will investigate the sarcophagus in the morning. I am concerned about our abilities to remain alive in this place - I myself have consumed most of my healing potions. No doubt, the Pharaohs have more surprises in store for us.
3 Arodus (I think)
Irori be praised, I live still. I should raise a mug in Cayden's name as well, he granted his cleric, Olen, the powers that saved my life not once, but twice. I hope never again to see a mummified dragon, one that swims in gold as it would water and still manages to breathe lightning despite having no lungs whatsoever. Still, I persevered - let it not be said that Amyrta Stonefist, daughter of Wrot the Even-Handed, He Who Fought Glamdarrig the Wicked, did not do her duty. The last of the sacred water I had was spent in dealing the final blow to the dead dragon, sending its bones to rest more quietly.
I hope somewhere in this tomb lie what I am looking for - perhaps some of the older martial guides that might lead me to gain entrance on a Jalmeray monastery, a gift for their Masters. I must seek a way to grant my strikes more power, perhaps of an elemental nature. I have also heard of ways to make my fists strike at a distance - I shall meditate upon this in the morning, but for now, my body is weary. No divine healing I have come upon can take away the rush and crash of battle, and I can barely keep myself upright.
Ouch it looks like the much anticipated butt-kick commenced. Wow. I am really impressed with the ability of this party to "pull it out" at the end. Further it would appear that some of the party's tactical sense has been restored (at least they haven't split up the party again). Keep up the good work we are all pulling for you!
I have really enjoyed the Chronicle of this adventure and look forward to reading more.
CJ
This last Saturday was skipped due to both Daigle and Lilith attending GenCon! Lucky Bas)@^#$! This saturday should likely be the epic conclusion of J1! Or perhaps not, depending on what they do, we'll see.
Hope any readers here have been enjoying the ride as much as I have.
Oh, and once my turn to GM comes around again, I will likely run these same characters through J4, provided the story for that module turns out the way I'd like it to. Remember what we talked about Ask A Shoanti! (aka Michael Kortes)
After a nearly 1.5 month hiatus, it seems the finale is finally coming! Look forward to our next installment!
I suppose I should be thankful to be alive, but I am left with questions and regrets.
We opened the sarcophagus and found an inanimate mummy with various items of worth upon him. Knowing the Venture Captain would want these items, we carefully removed them. Beneath the corpse, however, we found a secret compartment which contained blue scales and broken green pieces. Olen labored to try to assembled some and suddenly tossed it down, as the others looked in shock. All three of them had gazed upon a completed Pharaoh rune! I left the scales alone to prevent further risk.
We prepared ourselves for the inevitable ascent and rose up to the floor just above where we originally entered the pyramid. It led to a corridor with a long window that peered out into what appeared to be a scene of the time of the rule of the Pharoahs, captured in time, apparently to be gazed upon to appreciate an era long past. The corridor had an entrance to a throne room with a glowing sarcophagus that dissipated, revealing the admittedly beautiful form of Ankana, one of the Pharoahs. She was wrapped in mummy cloth, but was perfectly preserved. Obasi engaged in an Osirian conversation with her, and he warned her of Julistar and his men trying to pillage the pyramid. She appointed us the official guardians of the place and gave us an animated statue with which to kill the evil looters.
We then headed back to the elevator and rose again. Far above, however, Dayle (my elven "associate") saw us coming, yelled a warning, and prepared to open fire. Battle was joined.
I did what I could to keep Dayle busy with my arrows, but her great distance up the shaft made it difficult. She was, in the meantime, firing powerful arrows into Olen and Obasi. Trying to keep cover under the statue, I continued my less than adequate assault upon her. But another enemy had also entered the fray - some female arcanist with the ability to launch fireballs and emit intense flames from her body with a whim. She transported herself down and was meleeing with Amyrta and Olen, and she persisted in releasing her flames upon them. We were being weakened pretty badly. Amyrta and Olen were both at one point knocked unconscious, and Obasi flying up above was also close to death, with me relatively safe from Dayle above (who, strangely, had not fired at me once).
But then, as I saw Julistar give a command to Dayle to finish me off, she turned on him and shot at him point blank with her bow! I took the final shots (asking my father for guidance), and with three solid strikes, he crumpled over the edge and landed on our rising platform with a crack! The arcanist muttered some conceitful regret and transported herself above to Dayle while Obasi was trying to heal Olen. Dayle screamed and was thrown off from above. Obasi barely managed to catch her, and she was laid at my feet - the arcanist woman, whatever kind of creature she was, had infested her with maggots, and they were devouring what little strength to live remained. "We were always here...", she said, "I never tried to hurt you... the scepter..."
Scepter? She was always here? What did it all mean? I could only look over her with regret, that she seeked some sort of alliance with me, yet tried to attack me when we first met, and tried so openly to kill these people I have been facing trials with. Had she just changed sides sooner, perhaps things would have been different.
We healed up and continued upwards to the top. We found Ankara emerging from a secret chamber with a ladder rising from below, and an open sarcophagus in the west wall. In the sarchophagus were a number of valuable items, but a scepter-shaped object was missing. There were inscriptions impressed into the cavity, but I dared not read them for fear of seeing more runes.
Ankara spoke to us, claiming that it was her time to rejoin the world, and that all she needed was the mask. She referred to Amyrta as... a dwarf-wench? Obasi knew she ruled the Ruby Throne (apparently he learned this from his conversation with her before), and he was against her rejoining the world to rule, so he opened fire with his spells. She summoned an earth elemental to defend herself and tried to flee, but my arrows, Amyrta's strike and another volley of magic missiles from Obasi took her down quickly.
There was no sign of the female arcanist. What meaning the scepter held or where she went with it, I do not know.
And I don't know what Dayle was going through to choose to side with these enemies and try to kill my... friends. Yes, friends.
We gathered what valuables we could and made our way to the entrance, but it was blocked by an invisible shield. Fortunately, Olen transported us out with the same item he used to steal the mask.
From there, we made the long journey back to Sothis. I have chosen to bring Dayle's remains along with me. Exactly what I will do with her, I do not know. I would expect to return her to the elves for a proper burial. But I would wish to know more about where she comes from, and why she chose her path.
But, for now, we have some valuable items to return to our Venture Captain. And, there is one more thing I will add, before I forget...
As much as I detested the idea of the elves leaving during history's disasters, only to come back and simply adjust to the new world here, I begin to understand now the trials they may have faced, and why they made decisions as they did, as crises occurred. If I had the chance, I would have told Dayle what a disgrace she was being to her own race, participating with those who would take innocent lives in their pursuit of treasure, knowledge, or power. Perhaps I can bring closure to this at a later date. In the meantime, I can at least deliver her to those that will handle her death as an elf's death should be.
It looks like the others are about to head to the tavern. I believe I'll join them.
* watches the letter burn *
Fare thee well, Obasi.
I suspect we will meet again soon.
Session 7 Finale Summary is out via Email!
Enjoy the fruits of your labors guys!
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Of the final haul, Allerund already has the greatbow, but would also like:
The Chain Shirt +2
1 Swan Boat feather token
And between Sessions 6 and 7 it looks like we took in 18000 gp or so in raw loot (including the spellbook), so I'll take 4500gp of that.
I wouldn't mind the Circlet of Wisdom +2 and Golembane Scarab, but I'll only take those if noone else wants them.
If anything else remains, we can still pick and choose or sell them and split that as well.
This is the stat block done up for Paracount Julistar of Her Majestrix's Expeditionary, updated for PFRPG and at his point of entry to the Pyramid.
His CR is 8 instead of 7 because I generated him using rules for characters, not NPCs. I know, I'm evil.
Paracount/Demi-Cardinal Julistar
Male Human Aristocrat 1/Cloistered Cleric of Asmodeus (variant) 6
LE Medium humanoid
Init +1 ; Senses Perception +9.
Defense
AC 15, touch 11, flat-footed 14 (+4 armor, +1 dex)
Combat Expertise: 18, but -3 to attacks.
hp 57 (38 rolled, 1d8+1+6d6+6 +6 Human +6 Favored Class)
Fort +6, Ref +3, Will +13
Defensive Abilities
offence
Spd 30 ft.
Melee +4 melee Rod of Reverence (1d6/x2)
Ranged -----
Special Attacks Touch of Evil (Sicken, 1r/3r)
Domain Powers Touch of Evil, Protection from Good 3/day, Align Weapon 1/day, Lore Keeper, Comprehend Languages 3/day, Detect Thoughts, Copy Cat (6 rounds), Disguise Self 3/day, Invisibility 1/day.
Spells Prepared (Caster Level 6th, +3 melee touch, +4 ranged touch)
3rd - 3: Dispel Magic, Suppress Glyph, Axiomatic Rain (2d6/r, 6r, 20ft cyl).
2nd - 4: Infernal Wound (by weapon, 6r, 2pt bleed, no save), Cure Moderate Wounds, CASTSilence (WDC 16), Inflict Moderate Wounds (2d8+6, WDC 16 half)
1st - 4: Shield of Faith (+3), Cure Light Wounds, Divine Favor (+2), Bless.
Orisons - 4, at will: Message, Read Magic, Stablize, Mending.
Domains Evil, Knowledge, Trickery
Statistics
Str 10, Dex 12, Con 13, Int 16, Wis 19, Cha 14, App 16
Base Atk +3; CMB +3
Feats Iron Will (Human Bonus), Skill Focus: Knowledge - History (1st), Scribe Scroll (3rd), Persuasive (5th), Combat Expertise (7th).
Weapon Groups Basic Weapons, Maces and Clubs.
Skills Appraise*+11 , Bluff*+12 , Diplomacy*+10 , Disguise*+6 , Heal*+5 , Intimidate*+9 , Knowledge: Arcana*+7 , Knowledge: Dungeoneering*+7 , Knowledge: Engineering*+7 , Knowledge: Geography*+8 , Knowledge: History*+ 18, Knowledge: Local (Inner Sea)*+7 , Knowledge: Nature*+7 , Knowledge: Nobility*+11 , Knowledge: Planar*+8 , Knowledge: Religion*+11 , Linguistics*+5 , Perception*+9 , Perform: Oratory*+7 , Ride*+7 , Sense Motive*+12 , Spellcraft*+10 , Swim*+4 .
Languages Common (Taldane) R/W/S, Osiriani R/W/S, Infernal R/W/S, Speak Draconic.
SQ Channel Energy 5/day (3d6 Neg, WDC 15), Orisons, Lore (as Bardic Knowledge), Favored Class: Cleric.
Combat Gear Lesser Grimoire of Thrune: a bound collection of scrolls within a red leather cover embossed in gold with the symbol of Asmodeus, it contains the following scrolls: Command, Comprehend Languages, Death Knell, Detect Secret Doors (2), Detect Undead, Hide from Undead (2), Protection from Evil and Sanctuary, Scroll of Stone Shape, Scroll of Divination. Wand of Cure Light Wounds (34 charges).
Other Gear +2 Leather Armor, Periapt of Wisdom +2 (large Black Pearl on black gold chain)[i], [i] Jade Mantis, Wracking Rod, Steel Devil-Headed Key, Small Steel Coffer (Devil Motif) containing the Aucturn Lexicon Notes, Steel Rod of Reverence (mwk Quarterstaff with a dark emerald continual flame cast upon it).
And here is one of my personal characters from long ago that I added to the Expeditionary Roster. She is also a CR 8 just like Julistar because she was crafted exactly like a character.
Daile Talenthias
Female Elf Ranger 5/Order of the Bow Initiate 2
LN Medium humanoid
Init +5 ; Senses Perception +11, Keen Senses (+2 Sight/Sound), Low-Light Vision.
Defense
AC 21, touch 15, flat-footed 16 (+6 armor, +5 dex)
hp 73 (56 Rolled, 5d10+5+2d8+2 +5 Elf +5 Favored Class)
Fort +4, Ref +7, Will +4
Immune Sleep Resist +2 vs. Enchantments
Defensive Abilities
offence
Spd 40 ft.
Melee +9/+4 melee Mwk Shortspear (1d6+1/x3)
Ranged +14/+9 Ranged +1 Seeking Elvencraft Composite [+1]Greatbow (1d10+2/x3)
+12/+12/+7 Ranged Rapid Shot
First shot does x2 damage with Multishot
+1d8 Ranged Precision if applicable
Special Attacks Favored Enemy: Human +4, Favored Enemy: Magical Beasts +2, Ranged Precision +1d8 (30 foot range), Ignore Miss Chances with Bow (Seeking), Sniper's Shot 3/day.
Spells Prepared
1st - 2: Scent, Sniper's Shot.
Statistics
Str 12, Dex 20, Con 12, Int 16, Wis 14, Cha 12, App 19
Base Atk +7; CMB +8
Feats Point Blank Shot (1st), Precise Shot (Combat Style, 2nd), Rapid Shot (3rd), Endurance (Bonus, 3rd), Weapon Focus: Bows (5th), Manyshot (7th).
Weapon Groups Basic Weapons, Bows, Light Blades, Exotic Bows, Spears and Lances.
Skills Acrobatics +15, Bluff +5, Climb*+7, Craft: Bowyer*+11, Diplomacy +2, Handle Animal*+6, Heal*+9, Intimidate*+6, Knowledge: Dungeoneering*+7, Knowledge: Geography*+7, Knowledge: Nature*+8, Knowledge: Religion*+7, Perception*+11, Ride*+8, Sense Motive +3, Spellcraft*+7, Stealth*+14, Survival*+2, Swim*+6
*Denotes Class Skills.
Languages Common (Taldane) R/W/S, Elven R/W/S, Speak Osiriani, Speak Orcish, Speak Qadiran.
SQ Keen Senses, Elven Immunities, Weapon Familiarity, Favored Class: Ranger, Track, Wild Empathy +6, Close Combat Shot (no AoO in melee with bow), Favored Terrain: Plains, Hunter's Bond (share FE bonus).
Combat Gear 3 Potions of Cure Light Wounds, 2 Potions of Cure Moderate Wounds.
Other Gear +2 Chain Shirt, Belt of Incredible Dexterity +2, Boots of Striding and Springing, Bag of Endless Caltrops, Quiver (20 arrows), adventuring gear (rope, grapple, etc), 50pp.
Session 7 Finale
Arodus 4 or 5? (Time Unknown) 4708 Absalom Reckoning
After resting and taking the time to write in their journals, our heroes took some time to identify and don their choice of treasure thus far gained by their hard won efforts. Returning to the platform and the Great Kahotep, Obasi commanded the golem to raise them into the lofty heights of the Pyramid's upper levels.
Reaching the level above the entry floor, they decided to stop and explore. Strange wan light illuminated the passageway before them and a dusty breeze wafted through. Curious, our heroes moved down the passage and came to the long windows that faced out upon an impossible sight, that of an imperial city of Osirion directly outside the Pyramid! Olen, unable to believe his eyes, tried to will the sight away, only to find that it wouldn't fade. Obasi expressed his incredulity at the sight and a deep esoteric discussion about the Four Pharaoh's Pyramid existing back in time and in the present ensued. If it weren't for Amyrta donning the Burial Mask, they might never have realized that this sight couldn't be anything more than an illusion. Amyrta's eyes saw only the endless twilight skies of Ramlock's Hallow beyond, a howling wasteland of luminous sand and endless desert.
Turning from the intriguing windows, Amyrta beheld a majestic sight within the single room of the floor. A glowing angelic beauty surrounded in a room of prismatic light that dazzled the eye. The others saw instead a room with beautiful mosiacs upon the walls and a floating sarcophagus of indigo light. Removing the mask, Amyrta joined the rest as they entered the room to investigate. After a moment of investigating the room and discovering the Wall of Force bisecting the floor, the top of the sarcophagus dispersed into vanishing mist and the shrouded Ankana stepped forth. Removing her shroud, the Radiant Pharaoh regarded her visitors imperiously before turning to sit upon her recessed throne to adress them.
After a few blurted questions in Taldane, which the Pharaoh replied to in Ancient Osiriani (apparently not comprehending), Obasi knelt and adressed her in the proper tone and fashion. His flattery was well placed and stayed Ankana's hand from springing the trapped room upon them. His manner pleasing her, Ankana decided to spare her visitors and even lent The Panthereon, her protector, to them to defeat the other interlopers into the Pyramid.
Note: This would normally not have happened in the Adventure. It happened this way because there was actually someone in the party who could speak to Ankana. Normally she would spring the trap and thats it, but her loneliness worked against her on this and the chance to have someone to talk to that might be able to fill in 6000 years of lost time for her was an opportunity that she wasn't going to miss. Not to mention that she misses being given worship and fealty. Obasi's well played obsequiousness went a long way towards changing the entire nature of this encounter.
Taking the Panthereon back with them to Kahotep's Climb, our heroes proceeded to move towards the Apex level of the Pyramid, the resting place of the mysterious Pharaoh of Numbers. According to ancient texts still available in Sothis and other places, the Pharaoh of Numbers was the most mysterious and perhaps most influencial of the Four Pharaoh's of Ascension. Certainly it was his obsession with the planet Aucturn that had so great an influence on the design of the Pyramid and the many rooms filled with equations and ancient mathematics. About him though, nothing else is truly known.
As the platform approached the apex, a bright light was affixed to the wall about 150 feet down from the landing, this light allowed Daile, who was watching from above to see our heroes as they approached. Yelling for Julistar, Daile readied her bow. Having to defend themselves from attacks from so far above would prove to be a great difficulty for our heroes. As Allerund began to fire his arrows up the shaft, Daile began to unleash a hail of arrows at Olen. During this exchange a strange woman in odd gard joined her on the landing. This woman pointed a finger and lobbed a fireball down onto the platform, scorching them all. The battle was joined.
After a moment, the witch-woman, as they came to call her, teleported down onto the platform and began to unleash quickened fire magics on the party. Amyrta, unable to reach Daile due to the slow moving platform's ascent, leapt upon the witch and managed to grapple her in a lucky blow! The witch, seemingly unfazed, merely unleashed a quickened Fireburst. The woman seemed to be hardly hurt by the stab-wounds that Olen kept giving her and even unfazed by Amyrta's crushing strength! Above, Daile had been mightily wounded by Fireballs lobbed onto the landing by Obasi and Julistar was forced to expend his strength trying to heal her. Her fury was turned solely upon Olen and Obasi, being the only human's present, she felt that they must die!
After the third quickened Fireburst, Olen fell to unconciousness along with Amyrta, leaving the giggling witch-woman standing on the platform alone with Allerund. Instead of venting her sick violence on him, she instead began to molest Olen's unconsious form, licking his face and drooling into his mouth. Obasi, afraid of what she might be doing swooped down and pulled Olen away from her, feeding him a healing potion to hopefully stop whatever corruption she might be working on him.
At this point Julistar came running out onto the landing from whatever room he had retreated into and shouted at Daile that he had found it and to finish off the rest of us! Daile rushed into the room to see then quickly turned and spent the full fury of her bow upon Julistar from a few feet away. He staggered back against the wall, blood pouring from his wounds and mouth, speechless! Allerund acted quickly and fire three arrows in quick succession into the Paracount, killing him instantly and sending his body plummetting down the shaft to land broken upon Kahotep's Platform. The Witch-woman, Averna, looked up and then teleported as Daile darted into the other rooms.
While they began to heal, Daile let out a piercing scream above and was then dragged writhing out onto the landing by Averna who simply chuckled and tossed her down the shaft. Daile was fortunately caught by Obasi who was still flying and placed on the platform. Her body was suffering from a horrid corruption however, and death could not be far away with hordes of maggots eating her flesh. (Spell: Infestation of Maggots). Still chuckling, Averna withdrew into the other chambers above, leaving Daile to her fate. Daile expired before she could do more than whisper a few words to Allerund. (From Constitution Damage).
Their main adversaries defeated now, our heroes just had to contend with this woman. Arriving at the apex, they found the rooms empty of enemies, the sarcophagus of the Pharaoh of Numbers opened and containing all his burial treasure but one thing. The cushioning showed the impression of a rod or scepter with long flanges...this scepter was nowhere to be found. A moment later, Ankana emerged into the room from the hidden ladderway. She took a long look at the Countdown wall and then turned to Obasi and began to make plans for how her return to the throne will save Osirion. She commanded the 'Dwarf-wench' to return her mask and began to make grandiose plans. After listening to her self-important tripe for a few moments, Obasi turned his magic on her, lest her imperious hand ever gain control over Osirion again. In moments, her perfect flesh was nothing more than motes of fading dust.
Upon her return to the grave, the burial mask shattered from Amyrta's face. A low and distant rumbling was also heard...the first pangs of the Pyramid returning to Ramlock's Hallow. Making a quick search of things, the party gathered all their treasure, Allerund carrying with him Daile's lifeless body and departed the Pyramid via Olen's grace from Cayden Cailean. From there...the desert beckoned and eventually swallowed the Pyramid of Ascension once more and our weary heroes headed back towards the setting sun, towards Sothis, towards home.
Fin, J1: Entombed with the Pharaohs
Special thanks to all my players!
Lilith! Thanks so much for taking part in this adventure, I knew I had you when you realized it was Osirion we were playing in! Oh, and your female Dwarf Monk scares me.
Daigle! Olen was an awesome character who provided some great support and comedy into this game. His magic and wit is something we couldn't have done without! His pigsticker too!
Pygon! For the sarcastic and sardonic tone of the great Allerund, I thank you. He was the real focus of this adventure and kept everything moving with a purpose and reason. It was great to get to know him so much better throughout this adventure and I look forward to more!
Eyebite! To you I give my thanks for creating a character that might as well have been custom designed for this adventure! Obasi's backstory was so full of interesting points I just had to include them in the progressing story of the module. His tortured soul and the dark deeds that may one day stain it is something we all feel dread over. Well Done!
And a super special thanks to Ask a Shoanti! AKA Mike Kortes! Writer of this awesome module, your feedback and enthusiasm about our game and the fact that you weren't insulted that I obviously changed some stuff and really embellished other things really impressed me! Thanks for your interest, support and suggestions. I am so looking forward to the next one!
Epilogue's to follow this guys!!!!!!
Okay...now that the adventure is done. A note to anyone who has read this and is planning on running the adventure.
I started off planning on going pretty much RAW, maybe adding in a little more in the way of Roleplaying scenes. Obviously I ended up doing much more. Some scenes were entirely my invention, other things like the Burial Mask having some weird magical sight, entirely ad hoc GM invention. Hopefully no one out there thinks I did the module a disservice by running it differently, but I made the changes I did in order to better fit my players and the mood of the game.
How any other GM runs this adventure is up to them, but I like that about this adventure. Depending on how you run it either the Expeditionary or the Pharaoh's can be the main villains! In my interpretation, obviously it was the Expeditionary. Then again though, who knows what motivates these people to do what they do? We'll see, I'm sure.
Congrats on finishing guys! ! !
An appropriately dramatic ending too! Sounds like high-end role-playing all-around.
Osirion will never be the same without you. Come back soon!