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04:28, 4th May 2024 (GMT+0)

Missing Guildmate.

Posted by The Patchwork GodFor group 0
The Patchwork God
GM, 767 posts
Wed 3 Aug 2022
at 03:45
  • msg #1

Missing Guildmate

You hitch a ride on the barge of a spice merchant heading for the coast, and enjoy the smell of cinnamon and sesame as you drift along the river. The Tiariai Manor is easy to find, imitating Dwarven esthetics. A few people are working outside, bringing barrels of ale to a barge tied to their dock. They wave at you as you draw near, but don't seem curious or surprised by your arrival.
Buckthorn
player, 146 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Wed 3 Aug 2022
at 04:20
  • msg #2

Missing Guildmate

"This had almost slipped my mind..." Buck appears at Spriggy's side as they depart the pungent barge and return to shore, "... this is for books and various other items you're kind enough to procure and carry for us." Buck discreetly presses a small coin purse into the bard's palm and won't hear of any protest. He makes a beeline for Sir Gorrid to see what the old knight thinks of doing first.

((Removed 10 coins from Buck's inventory))
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 675 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 3 Aug 2022
at 04:59
  • msg #3

Missing Guildmate

"Probably best to ask some questions, and I'm probably not the best one to do it.  For some reason, armor, swords and holy symbols tend to tie most folk's tongues..."
Idi
player, 125 posts
level 4 cleric of Thovis
HP: 22/22, armor: 2
Thu 4 Aug 2022
at 18:44
  • msg #4

Missing Guildmate

"I haven't run into that problem, but then, you do have much more steel than I do," Idi says with a bit of a grin. "You're right though, a few well-placed questions would be a good start. It may be more telling in how they answer, than what they answer; a good lie is surprisingly difficult, if you know what tells to look for."


How long is the trip to the manor? I think a Divination spell would be quite useful, but I'm not sure if there'd be time to commune before/after casting it?
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 448 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Thu 4 Aug 2022
at 19:10
  • msg #5

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy tried to refuse Buckthorn's money at first, but eventually relented. He decided to consider it Buckthorn going halvsies on some of the gear. After everyone was disembarked and Lydia's cart was all set up once again, the bard spoke up.

"I can try to break the ice and ask some questions, when the time comes," said Spriggy, attempting to reassure his friends. "Traveling entertainers have a way to get people to open up in a way that sometimes defies logic."

He took a closer look at the dwarven buildings and tried to guage their authenticity. Were they recreations? Commissioned construction by actual dwarven architects? Transplanted structures? Knowing that could help give insights into what sort of people they would be dealing with here.

And speaking of dealing with people, Spriggy also kept an eye out for the appropriate person to talk to. They needed someone who might be able to help them track down Charlotte.


I would like to use my elf racial move. "When you enter an important location (your call) you can ask the GM for one fact from the history of that location."

10 coin added.
The Patchwork God
GM, 768 posts
Fri 5 Aug 2022
at 16:36
  • msg #6

Missing Guildmate

The merchant you traveled with offers you a few sticks of cinnamon at Buckthorn's request.

During the trip, Idi casts his divination. Your vision shows you a bird's flight view of the White Sword Province, heading east along the Moonstone Stream. Then, moving lower, you see a small alcove in the Sunrise Reach, where a lone Dwarven building stands, almost hidden.

Looking at the architecture, Spriggy realizes that although built by humans, the architect was actually a dwarf, something rather rare this far north.

There are plenty of people around that seems like they would love an excuse to take a break, or you could ask at the manor directly if you prefer.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 449 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Tue 9 Aug 2022
at 14:58
  • msg #7

Missing Guildmate

"It looks like this place was built by humans, but designed by a dwarven architect," reported Spriggy. "Rare for this far north. That suggests to me that these people put a lot of effort into getting the aesthetic they wanted, but didn't actually steal from dwarven lands. And it isn't a simple reconstruction of an existing building, so they wanted a custom design for their specific needs as well." The fact that the buildings weren't transplants of existing structures or simple replications suggested these people were not super shady, and had a ton of money to throw around on aesthetics.

"Are there any questions in particular you want me to ask? Just by looking around I get the sense that at least some people would be willing to talk."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:00, Tue 09 Aug 2022.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 676 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Tue 9 Aug 2022
at 15:29
  • msg #8

Missing Guildmate

"I guess the first would be if they've seen our lady, and if so, if they know where she went.  Some insight into recent events might also be helpful."
Russel Albion
player, 113 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 9 Aug 2022
at 17:50
  • msg #9

Missing Guildmate

Russel check for any gossip about foul play that might be going on in regards to the missing lady.
[When you spout lore about criminal activities, take +1.]
13:50, Today: Russel Albion rolled 11 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 4,6.  Spout Lore about criminal activities.
The Patchwork God
GM, 769 posts
Wed 10 Aug 2022
at 16:52
  • msg #10

Missing Guildmate

The Tiariai are a pretty wealthy family, not really involved with the criminal underworld. With one major exception: they have a big fetish for any objects of dwarven, and usually don't ask too many questions about the origins.

That's likely why no one is surprised at seeing adventurers drop in unannounced. It's a common occurrence for them.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 450 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Sun 14 Aug 2022
at 00:11
  • msg #11

Missing Guildmate

Without having any reason to be exceptionally discrete, Spriggy walked over to a talkative-looking individual to inquire about Charlotte. "Excuse me, but I don't suppose you might know where I can find my friend Charlotte do you? Last I heard, she was in the area. Thought I might surprise her by dropping by. She is here to do some translations, if that helps."
The Patchwork God
GM, 770 posts
Sun 14 Aug 2022
at 15:57
  • msg #12

Missing Guildmate

"A translator? You mean the pretty woman with the green hair?" One of the worker says, more eager to set down the empty barrel he was carrying than answering your question. "Oh ya, I remember her. She came here... what, a week ago? Right after those fishermen came to sell stuff. Sir Tiariai left with her and a few servants not long after. Figure they found a treasure map or somethun."
Buckthorn
player, 149 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Tue 16 Aug 2022
at 00:47
  • msg #13

Missing Guildmate

"Is this a frequent fisherman stopover?" Buck questions, mostly because he is interested in fish but also because any information could potentially be useful. He refrains from asking in more detail about what they were selling, presumably local fish.
The Patchwork God
GM, 771 posts
Tue 16 Aug 2022
at 14:45
  • msg #14

Missing Guildmate

"Fishermen? Not really... Sometimes the cook waves one down to fill the pantry, but that's about it."

By the smell, you can tell that the various barrels are dedicated to carrying ale.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 451 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Wed 17 Aug 2022
at 22:58
  • msg #15

Missing Guildmate

"I am sure that was her. Thanks buddy." Spriggy tossed the man a coin for his troubles, then turned to talk with his traveling companions again.

"I am willing to bet they headed to that place in Idi's vision. Anyone have any clever Ideas on how to get there? Should I try talking with some people at the main building?"
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 677 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 17 Aug 2022
at 23:06
  • msg #16

Missing Guildmate

"I expect so.  If she was sent, someone either sent her or went with her.  In either case, someone at the main house should have an idea of the location - and maybe some information about it."
The Patchwork God
GM, 773 posts
Thu 18 Aug 2022
at 16:28
  • msg #17

Missing Guildmate

It doesn't take long to find the manor's butler, who invite you inside. "Please, make yourselves comfortable. I assume you have some treasure you wish to sell my master? I'm afraid sir Tiariai is off on a journey, and may be away for a while longer..."
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 452 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Tue 23 Aug 2022
at 02:25
  • msg #18

Missing Guildmate

"I admit, we do have an item or two I think he may be interested in," replied Spriggy. It was true, although he had no intention of selling those particular items. "Where might I ask has sir Tiariai gone off to? Perhaps we can meet him half way. I'm not much for waiting around with nothing to do. I would rather keep my feet moving, even if it happens to be toward a place I originally had no intention of going to."
Buckthorn
player, 150 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Tue 23 Aug 2022
at 04:56
  • msg #19

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy banters with the butler and it gives Buck ample time to meander about the room looking at curios and things of interest.

He wonders as he wanders; with the master of the manor not long ago departing with the girl, what happened here recently? Buck hadn't much idea of what a form helpful context might take and thought 'What should I be on the lookout for?'  Since joining the Phoenix Blades the druid was quickly learning much is not what it seems with affairs that require their intervention, if that is indeed the case again then what here is not what it appears to be?

He tries his best not to touch anything or draw attention.


Buckthorn rolled 11 using 2d6+2 (Discern Realities, Manor House)
The Patchwork God
GM, 774 posts
Tue 23 Aug 2022
at 15:06
  • msg #20

Missing Guildmate

"I'm afraid he did not inform us of his destination." The butler says. "Master Tiariai is rather... secretive, about his excursions. If you wish, you can leave me contact information so I can message you when he returns. Or I can give you directions to a reliable merchant who could compensate your for your relics."

The butler remains professional, but he seems a tad frustrated by his master's actions. It seems pretty clear Tiariai didn't put much thought or planning in this expedition, and didn't consider leaving instructions in case he get in trouble...
Buckthorn
player, 151 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Wed 24 Aug 2022
at 00:30
  • msg #21

Missing Guildmate

"Might you share exactly how long ago Master Tiariai departed and by which route?" Buck broke into the conversational pause that followed the butler's unsatisfactory suggestion the group find other merchants.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 678 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 24 Aug 2022
at 02:57
  • msg #22

Missing Guildmate

"And did anything in particular precipitate his departure?"
The Patchwork God
GM, 775 posts
Wed 24 Aug 2022
at 14:54
  • msg #23

Missing Guildmate

"He hired a translator after getting his hands on old Dwarven plates. When he learned of what they said, Master Tiariai gathered a few men and the translator, and took a boat west. He should be back in a week or two... That was a week ago." The butler sighs. "I do wish he had taken more time to prepare. Even the translator, who seemed like a competant adventurer, seemed hesitant to leave so quickly."
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 679 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 24 Aug 2022
at 16:11
  • msg #24

Missing Guildmate

"Are the plates still here?"
The Patchwork God
GM, 776 posts
Fri 26 Aug 2022
at 15:46
  • msg #25

Missing Guildmate

"No, they took them along. Probably to refer to them as they travel."
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 453 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Mon 29 Aug 2022
at 14:54
  • msg #26

Missing Guildmate

"Well, if they thought they might be back in a week, that means they only expected it to take a couple days to get there at most. It can't be too far. And if they took a boat, that greatly reduces where they may have gone..." Spriggy thought for a moment, then went to grab one of his geography books. He flipped through it as he tried to recall locations within the appropriate range that they may have been lead to by dwarven plate translations. Surely he wouldn't figure out their exact destination, but perhaps he could greatly narrow down the area. He shared his findings with the group as he uncovered them.


Sprout Lore, with book. Trying to recall a place of interest to plate-making dwarves that is a few days west by boat (primarily).
10:52, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 11 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 2,5.  Sprout Lore, with book - Geography.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 680 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Mon 29 Aug 2022
at 15:12
  • msg #27

Missing Guildmate

"I might be able to help in tracking them, if Gianam wills it."

He turned to the butler.  "Is there a place we might refresh ourselves as we prepare for onward travel?"
The Patchwork God
GM, 777 posts
Mon 29 Aug 2022
at 15:48
  • msg #28

Missing Guildmate

Looking through your books, you find a rather vague reference to a Dwarven village dating back to the Caliphate's era, somewhere in the Sunrise Reach. There's very little information on it though, as no one ever found out it's location.

"You can use this salon if you wish. We do not expect other visitors today."
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 681 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Mon 29 Aug 2022
at 18:23
  • msg #29

Missing Guildmate

The knight nodded his thanks and waited to see if anyone else had further questions.  When the butler had left them some privacy, he took advantage of it to cleanse himself of the grime of travel, then headed out to the river to find a quiet place to pray, purify himself and meditate.

Taking on a quest: Ensure Charlotte is safe
Boons: Unwavering sense of direction to Charlotte, Invulnerability to edged weapons, A freedom from hunger, thirst, and sleep
Buckthorn
player, 152 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Tue 30 Aug 2022
at 02:49
  • msg #30

Missing Guildmate

Buck avails himself of the fine amenities, but not before asking one last question;

"Is the lord conspicuous in his travels? It would be useful to be able to inquire if he's passed through as we make our way rather blindly after his rentinue."
The Patchwork God
GM, 778 posts
Wed 31 Aug 2022
at 15:45
  • msg #31

Missing Guildmate

"He didn't look like he was trying to be stealthy, but he had enough provisions that he shouldn't need to stop in villages during his trip. Not unless it's longer than expected."


OOC: If you don't have any other preparations to make, do you want to travel on foot, or by boat? You could rent one (with a pilot) for 5 coins each.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 682 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 31 Aug 2022
at 19:02
  • msg #32

Missing Guildmate

Do we have a sense of likely difference in elapsed travel time to get there and back one way or the other?  Does anyone know of any particular risks for the terrain we'd be travelling over one way or the other?
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 455 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Fri 2 Sep 2022
at 13:07
  • msg #33

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy considered what they had learned. "What do you think? Should we try to retrace their path? Hopefully we will meet them coming back as we are leaving town, but we might have quite a journey ahead of us."
The Patchwork God
GM, 779 posts
Fri 2 Sep 2022
at 16:20
  • msg #34

Missing Guildmate

Between the vision and what the butler told you, renting a boat is the fastest way to follow Charlotte's group, as well as the most likely path they followed.

It takes a bit of walking before you can find a small boat willing to take you there, but money talks, and he was eager to listen.

The trip takes a few days, with little to distract you along the way. Soon, you find a bend in the river where another raft is camouflaged, as well as a discreet path heading up into the mountain.
Buckthorn
player, 155 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Fri 2 Sep 2022
at 16:29
  • msg #35

Missing Guildmate

While the others disembark and investigate the covered-up raft beached ashore, Buck wanders up the bank a short distance. He drops to one knee, scoops up a handful of loose soil and lets it slowly drain from his fist as he surveys for the most likely path away from the river.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 684 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Fri 2 Sep 2022
at 18:15
  • msg #36

Missing Guildmate

Can Sir Gorrid sense that Charlotte is likely off in the direction the faded path leads?
Russel Albion
player, 116 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 2 Sep 2022
at 21:02
  • msg #37

Missing Guildmate

Russel busied himself with the task of getting the pony and cart from boat to land.
While the land doesn't move, the shifting weight of cart and pony did cause the boat to move.
While not panicked with Russel soothing her, Lydia was still skittish when the boat rocked.
The Patchwork God
GM, 780 posts
Sat 3 Sep 2022
at 16:02
  • msg #38

Missing Guildmate

Examining the path, Buckthorn sees faint tracks, heading up into the mountain. Multiple hard boots, and a few small carts, pulled by people.

Once on solid ground, Lydia calms down, though it looks like the trail will be pretty tight for the cart.

OOC: The trail heads toward Charlotte, though it seems she's underground.
Buckthorn
player, 156 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Sat 3 Sep 2022
at 18:45
  • msg #39

Missing Guildmate

Buck relays the information to the Phoenix Blade party, concluding "If they pulled their carts through, it's possible we could get ours through. It won't be easy and may slow our pace." His tone is pragmatic as usual and he doesn't make a case for any specific course of action.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 685 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sun 4 Sep 2022
at 01:38
  • msg #40

Missing Guildmate

The paladin shared what his senses conveyed, then moved a little ways up the trail to get a better sense of what their path was likely to involve.

quote:
19:37, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 6 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 2,2.  Discern realities.

That's an XP unless someone wants to Aid.
Buckthorn
player, 157 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Sun 4 Sep 2022
at 07:15
  • msg #41

Missing Guildmate

Buck follows Sir Gorrid up the trail a short distance, offering a bit of input on the heavy flora pressing in on their prospective path and the condition of the course itself when the knight stops to study the way forward.

Buckthorn rolled 7 using 2d6+1 to aid Sir Gorrid (Discern Realities)
The Patchwork God
GM, 781 posts
Sun 4 Sep 2022
at 15:43
  • msg #42

Missing Guildmate

Looking more closely at the tracks, it seems the group moved quickly, although it seems someone there was being forced along against their will...

The trail leads to a recess in the mountain, where an old dwarven building stands, still resisting the elements after all this time. One Idi recognizes from his vision. The tracks lead inside, and you can see the shaft of an ancient mechanical elevator in the center of the building's single room.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 686 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sun 4 Sep 2022
at 16:14
  • msg #43

Missing Guildmate

The old knight sighed.  Stooping through dank abandoned dwarven tunnels wasn't exactly his idea of a fun time, but there wasn't much to do but head down.  If someone was being forced against their will, he would do his best to free them.

He examined the old machinery to verify it was still in decent operating condition before the team made use of it.

quote:
10:13, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 8 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 3,3.  Discern realities on elevator.

What should I be on the lookout for?
Russel Albion
player, 117 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Sun 4 Sep 2022
at 17:39
  • msg #44

Missing Guildmate

"Let me take a look at that before anyone touches it," said Russel.
Russel then checks the contraption for any signs that it might be rigged to be a trap to the unsuspecting user.

13:38, Today: Russel Albion rolled 11 using 2d6 with rolls of 5,6.  Trick of the Trade (Trap?).
The Patchwork God
GM, 782 posts
Mon 5 Sep 2022
at 15:30
  • msg #45

Missing Guildmate

The sound of machinery echoes from below. Despite it's age, the dwarven machines are still working just fine. Even the lever to call up the elevator seems to have no need for oil as you test it. Moments later, a platform rises from below, making far less noise than you'd think for something so big.

You see no trap so far... though you know dwarves have a natural talent for them, so you're planning on moving carefully.

OOC: I'll use your roll result for the next time you come across a trap here.
Buckthorn
player, 158 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Mon 5 Sep 2022
at 17:06
  • msg #46

Missing Guildmate

"Fascinating." Buck remarks, keenly interested in the contraption but waiting for someone else to set foot onto it first. He also eyes the cart and pony to gauge if everything might fit in one go.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 456 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Tue 6 Sep 2022
at 03:57
  • msg #47

Missing Guildmate

While some of the others inspected the elevator, Spriggy did his best to try and locate an underground critter that he might be able to convince to share its form. He would feel much more comfortable with the spirit of an underground inhabitant on his side.

When the elevator was ready and he saw Buckthorn looking at his pony, Spriggy used his magical amulet to speak to the small equine. "Lydia, will you be alright up here by yourself for a while? I don't think you will enjoy it underground. You can relax up here and graze to your heart's content." If the pony agreed, Spriggy would unhook her from her cart, then be brave and be first to step onto the ancient elevator.


Are there any underground animals in the area willing to let Spriggy shapeshift into them? A bat would be ideal, but Spriggy isn't going to be picky.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 687 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Tue 6 Sep 2022
at 05:52
  • msg #48

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid helped lug supplies from the pony cart onto the elevator.  Hopefully there'd be mine carts below they could load them into.  If not, at least they'd be closer at hand below ground than they would up here.
Russel Albion
player, 118 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 6 Sep 2022
at 12:28
  • msg #49

Missing Guildmate

Russel helps Sir Gorrid with moving what contents they need to take with them.
The Patchwork God
GM, 784 posts
Tue 6 Sep 2022
at 15:02
  • msg #50

Missing Guildmate

The trip down is rather short, and leads to a carved tunnel into the earth. It's clearly not a mining tunnel, but a fully finished path that would make normal mausoleum envious, with regular columns sustaining the ceiling, and various metal tubes along the walls, disappearing in ceilings and floors. It's even clean of dust or animal droppings... except for the large bloodstain around a dead body on the floor.

Before you move closer, Russel stops the group, pointing at discreet holes in the floor, as well as a section of floor looking slightly uneven with the rest.
Russel Albion
player, 119 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 6 Sep 2022
at 17:42
  • msg #51

Missing Guildmate

Russel holds up his hand and then points to holes in the floor, as well as a section of floor looking slightly uneven with the rest.

"I think someone didn't see those," he said as he pointed them out.

"I'm also concerned that whoever went before left the body of a fallen companion behind. Those we are following may not be going this way, completely, on their own free will."
Buckthorn
player, 161 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Tue 6 Sep 2022
at 18:33
  • msg #52

Missing Guildmate

With progress into the tunnel temporarily halted by Russel's astute observation, Buck hangs back from the group and takes a moment to closely observe the earthen works of the tunnel. He places a palm to a nearby column, admiring the laborious stonework.

While the others mull over the likely trap before them, Buck closes his eyes and quietly breathes in the surprisingly non-stale air. As his fingers drag across the carved rock he wonders what great or terrible things such a space has bore witness to in its long history.

Buckthorn rolled 12 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 6,4.  Communion Of Whispers.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 688 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Tue 6 Sep 2022
at 19:35
  • msg #53

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid held back a little bit, but kept close to the thief and held his shield ready.  If something was going to shoot out, he'd do his best to keep it from hitting the smaller man.

quote:
13:33, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 5,5.  Defend Russel.

I'm not completely clear whether 'Defend' is a legal move against trap damage, but figured it was worth a shot :>

If it's legal, that's good for 3 hold
The Patchwork God
GM, 785 posts
Wed 7 Sep 2022
at 17:33
  • msg #54

Missing Guildmate

With Russel's guidance, you avoid the trap, heading deeper into the tunnel. It leads to a wider section, as the tunnel turns. You pause, as you notice the sound of dwarven machinery is now joined with the sound of metal clicking, growing closer and closer, until the light of your torches reflects on a metallic spider heading toward you.

Buckthorn
player, 163 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Wed 7 Sep 2022
at 18:06
  • msg #55

Missing Guildmate

Buck catches back up not long after communing with the exquisitely crafted halls. He starts relaying most of his impression on the subterranean works, drifting off in thought as he walks and talks;

"These dwarfs were quite daring, leaving their native lands far behind in the spirit of discovery." he begins, sounding impressed by more than just the actual stonework he's been admiring the entire walk so far. As he speaks his tone becomes noticeably more melancholy "I believe, at least in part, this complex is an ancient orrery. At some point the dwarfenkin here grew progressively more worried as time marched on, culminating in a saddening departure."

Buck snaps back to the present when the eight legged machine monstrosity commands everyone's attenion. "They left behind some of their mechanical servants." he blurts out in a startled shock.

That last line of dialogue is meant to give the impression it... might not be a complete, dangerous menace?
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 689 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 7 Sep 2022
at 18:22
  • msg #56

Missing Guildmate

The paladin studied the creature and the tunnel area, trying to figure out what nature of threat, if any, the metal contraption posed, and what their options might be to deal with it.

quote:
12:21, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 10 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 3,5.  Discern realities.

What is about to happen?
What here is useful or valuable to me?
Who's really in control here?
Idi
player, 131 posts
level 4 cleric of Thovis
HP: 22/22, armor: 2
Thu 8 Sep 2022
at 19:30
  • msg #57

Missing Guildmate

"Well, that's certainly... something," Idi comments with some wonder as the mechanical spider clanks into view. He doesn't let his guard down though. He brings his shield up in front of him and steps forward to set his stance--just a half-pace back from Gorrid.


Just waiting to see what it does, or what answers Gorrid gets.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 457 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Fri 9 Sep 2022
at 01:36
  • msg #58

Missing Guildmate

"Wow. I never thought I would see one of these in person!" Spriggy's tone almost sounded more excited than alarmed. However, he stayed alert hand raised his small shield just like some of the others had.


If these critters are powered by magic and also fall under my Bardic Lore (Spells and Magic), I would like to ask, "How can we get these things to view us as their masters (if even possible)."
The Patchwork God
GM, 786 posts
Fri 9 Sep 2022
at 02:06
  • msg #59

Missing Guildmate

Those clockwork creatures are pretty well known to anyone who likes exploring old dwarven ruins. Mostly because of how annoying they are. They do a very good job keeping the ruins in a good shape, as well as clearing out any critters trying to settle in... including curious adventurers looking for loot.

Their behavior is as much controlled by magic as by the mechanism inside them, making it nearly impervious to the usual tricks used to control or manipulate monsters. The normal method of getting past these yard-high bugs, is by smashing them to pieces.

On the upside, you remember the gyroscope in the upper part of the spider is often quite valuable.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 690 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Fri 9 Sep 2022
at 03:36
  • msg #60

Missing Guildmate

Determining that fighting seemed to be the only option, Sir Gorrid began to pray, hoping that his god would aid him in making this a quick fight.

quote:
21:35, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 10 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,3.  Cast bless.
21:35, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 6,1.  Cast magic weapon.

I'll forget magic weapon.  Unless I don't have time to cast them both, in which case I guess I won't...
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 458 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Sat 10 Sep 2022
at 03:37
  • msg #61

Missing Guildmate

"Yup, we gotta squash the buggers," the bard said matter-of-factly. He wasted no time weaving together an arcane blast of magical energy and sending it at the malicious automaton. "Try not to damage their gyroscopes though. They fetch a fair price. It can be reimbursement for our troubles."


Casting Magic Missile at the robot.
23:35, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 11 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 6,2.  Cast Magic Missile at spider-bot.

Damage: 6
23:36, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 6 using 2d4 with rolls of 4,2.  Missile Damage.
Buckthorn
player, 164 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Sat 10 Sep 2022
at 05:56
  • msg #62

Missing Guildmate

Buck cringes at the thought of destroying such a skillfully constructed machination. However he can't be sure of its intentions and also can't immediately think of an effective way to combat such a unique  creation.

He impotently brings his spear to bear in support of Gorrid, Idi and the others.
The Patchwork God
GM, 787 posts
Sat 10 Sep 2022
at 21:31
  • msg #63

Missing Guildmate

The spider turns toward your group as you begin to cast, it's pincer snapping menacingly as it approaches. Spriggy's spell hits it dead on... but it barely stumbles under the attack.

OOC: You only had time for one spell before it gets into melee range. What do you do?
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 691 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sun 11 Sep 2022
at 01:47
  • msg #64

Missing Guildmate

"I'm afraid your dungeon sweeping days are at an end critter..."

The knight opts to not bother with his sword, concerned he might damage it on the metal bits.  Instead, he plows into it, trying to force the legs backwards against their hinges and snap them off.

quote:
19:46, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 10 using d10+2d4 with rolls of 5,2,3.  Damage.

Using Exterminatus
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 459 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Sun 11 Sep 2022
at 22:47
  • msg #65

Missing Guildmate

After casting his spell, the skittering construct closed the distance between them so fast that it caught Spriggy off guard. "You speedy little-" He tried to bring his shield up to defend himself, but couldn't help but fumble his motions.


Using the Defend move.
18:43, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 3 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,1.  Defend: self.
Failure. +1 XP!
Russel Albion
player, 120 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Sun 11 Sep 2022
at 23:51
  • msg #66

Missing Guildmate

Russel is more familiar with mechanical things that don't move with a mind of their own. He has his sword at the ready to assist any that look to need it.
19:49, Today: Russel Albion rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,5.  Assist.
The Patchwork God
GM, 788 posts
Mon 12 Sep 2022
at 15:18
  • msg #67

Missing Guildmate

The spider skitters toward Spriggy, throwing an electrical spark at the bard as he stumbles back. Gorrid steps in a moment after, tackling the thing back and smashing it into the wall. It's mechanics screech and grinds for a moment, before it's twitching legs stop moving.

Examining it more closely, you see Gorrid's blow knocked the gears inside out of alignment. You also manage to detach the gyro, and it's still in a good condition.

OOC: Spriggy takes 1 points of damage. The gyro is worth 15c, with a weight of 1.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 692 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Mon 12 Sep 2022
at 15:41
  • msg #68

Missing Guildmate

The paladin checked to make sure Spriggy was doing all right, then helped with detaching the gyro.  He carried it until he found a place he could leave it and conceal it for the team to grab on their way back out.
Buckthorn
player, 165 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Tue 13 Sep 2022
at 01:14
  • msg #69

Missing Guildmate

"I believe those to be intended only for maintenance..." Buck recalls as the party moves on from the wrecked metal corpse, "... though if we venture across anything more humanoid or in ball form we had best have a better plan in place to combat it."

An impressive dispatch nonetheless he thinks, but doesn't voice his opinion on Gorrid's daring tackle.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 693 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 0
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Tue 13 Sep 2022
at 02:07
  • msg #70

Missing Guildmate

"A plan sounds good.  Please share what you know - and your recommendations."

The knight waited patiently.  There was some urgency to moving forward, but a couple of minutes of talk now that could improve their chances of success later would be worth it.
Buckthorn
player, 166 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Tue 13 Sep 2022
at 05:56
  • msg #71

Missing Guildmate

"I..." Buck turns a bit red in the cheeks, embarrassed at having little constructive advice to offer, "... I regret I only have a hazy picture in my mind of what form stronger guardians might take."

Clearing his through he thinks quickly, "I'm not much for mechanical beings but perhaps water might disagree with them the way a pond might react to a lighting strike, destroying the fish within." he meagerly suggests, noting the spark that Spriggy was singed by. "Or perhaps we'd be the fish in that scenario, or perhaps they're simple lumbering brutes, or... I'm afraid I can't even wager beyond that."

Buck looks to the others for alternative suggestions, drawing his hood tighter when he thinks the attention is no longer entirely on him, relieved to be out of the spotlight.
The Patchwork God
GM, 789 posts
Tue 13 Sep 2022
at 15:45
  • msg #72

Missing Guildmate

As you discuss the matter, you go further along the corridor, until you find a room. It seems to be a vestibule. A side room is blocked by a metal door, and a corridor leads further into the depths, but your main focus is on the two metal spiders in the corner, resting in the corner. From the entrance, you see no signs of damage, so it's possible they're still working, just not active.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 460 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Fri 16 Sep 2022
at 15:59
  • msg #73

Missing Guildmate

Still rubbing his minor injury, Spriggy continued forward with the others, keeping an eye out for more threats. When they spotted the spiders, he looked toward Russel. "Is it safe to approach them? We're not going to trigger anything to make them attack us, right?" He held up his shield well in advance this time, just in case.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 694 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 1
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Fri 16 Sep 2022
at 16:20
  • msg #74

Missing Guildmate

"It might be better to disable them now - than to have them approach from behind when we're dealing with something to the front..."

He studied the situation to see if he could notice any obvious triggers, or ways to disable the creatures without activating them.

quote:
12:19, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 4 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 1,1.  Discern realities.


Hmm.  I wonder what this switch does?  [Flip]

One XP for me :)
Russel Albion
player, 121 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 16 Sep 2022
at 17:19
  • msg #75

Missing Guildmate

Responding to Spriggy, Russel said, "I don't see anything that looks like a trap. More like abandoned equipment."
"Still, wise to leave them alone if we don't need to mess with them."

13:17, Today: Russel Albion rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 4,1.  Trick of the Trade (Trap?).
This message was last edited by the player at 17:20, Fri 16 Sept 2022.
Idi
player, 132 posts
level 4 cleric of Thovis
HP: 22/22, armor: 2
Fri 16 Sep 2022
at 18:04
  • msg #76

Missing Guildmate

Idi nods along with his companions' suggestions, making none of his own yet but turning a discerning eye to the room and the automaton spiders. He slowly, cautiously, pokes every further into the room, making a thorough investigation with his trained eye.


Alright, let's go for a Discern Realties.
Idi rolled 11 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 4,4.

• What should I be on the lookout for?

• What here is useful or valuable to me?

• What here is not what it appears to be?
Buckthorn
player, 167 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Sat 17 Sep 2022
at 01:04
  • msg #77

Missing Guildmate

Buck holds off on going more than a few steps into the antechamber. While the others set to work about the room he debates internally whether or not it was best to begin molesting the contraptions. He looks looks on with anticipation.
The Patchwork God
GM, 790 posts
Sat 17 Sep 2022
at 18:29
  • msg #78

Missing Guildmate

Looking through the bars of the metal door, Idi can see the side room was used for storage. There's nothing left in the open, but there is a few dwarven chests left, one of them still closed. Too bad the door is locked.

As Gorrid carefully approaches the two spiders in the corner, he's surprised by a heavy weight pinning him to the ground. A third spider, unseen in the mass of pipes in the ceiling, has fallen on him. At the same time, the other two automaton wake up, charging and slashing at Russel as he was examining the walls.

OOC: Gorrid is pinned, and takes 1 point of damage. Russel, for his part, is slashed for 4 points of damage.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 696 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 1
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sat 17 Sep 2022
at 20:32
  • msg #79

Missing Guildmate

What does 'pinned' mean in game terms?  Also, is the damage before or after armor?
Buckthorn
player, 168 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Sat 17 Sep 2022
at 20:49
  • msg #80

Missing Guildmate

With the rush of activity suddenly filling the small room, Buck charges in with spear at the ready. He pays little mind to anything but Sir Gorrid surprisingly pinned under the mechanical spider previously hidden in the ceiling works. His quick but regrettably reckless reaction aims to pry the dwarven creation from the knight and free their best chance at fighting back.

Buckthorn rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 3,4.  Defy Danger
The Patchwork God
GM, 792 posts
Sun 18 Sep 2022
at 17:09
  • msg #81

Missing Guildmate

Buckthorn manages to get his spear between Gorrid and the spider, using the leverage to force them apart. Only problem is...

OOC: Your choice, Buckthorn: do you push it off from the front, where it strikes you for 2 damage, or from the back, and get it flipped on you when Gorrid stands back up?

Also, unless I specify it, consider all damage to be before armor.
Buckthorn
player, 169 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Sun 18 Sep 2022
at 20:07
  • msg #82

Missing Guildmate

Buck throws the full force of his charge into any leverage he can manage with his spear, nearly snapping it in the process. He manages to separate the thing from Gorrid but is struck as the machine flails when tipped, battering his croc hide armor through his heavy pelt cloak with a muffled thud. Buck lets out a groan but somehow keeps his feet through the collision.

1 damage taken
This message was last edited by the player at 20:12, Sun 18 Sept 2022.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 697 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 1
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sun 18 Sep 2022
at 20:38
  • msg #83

Missing Guildmate

Yet one more reason to hate dungeons.  He always forgot to look 'up'....

"Thanks!"  His shout to Buckthorn was brief as he went after one of the spiders who was attacking Russel, hoping to disable it before it could deal out its damage.  A body-slam had worked before, so he tried it again, trying to knock one automaton into the other


quote:
16:37, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 8 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 2,3.  Hack & slash.
16:37, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using d10+2d4 with rolls of 6,2,3.  Damage.

Russel Albion
player, 123 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Mon 19 Sep 2022
at 12:45
  • msg #84

Missing Guildmate

After diving out of the way, Russel exclaimed, "Looks like I was wrong and it was a trap!"

"Sorry about that."

While the machines are engaged with the others, Russel maneuvered into position to do a Backstab on the one attacking Sir Gorrid and give him an Advantage in his struggle against the things.
08:36, Today: Russel Albion rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 3,2.  Backstab.
+3 for Dex for an 8.
You deal your damage+1d6
You create an advantage, +1 forward to an ally acting on it
08:39, Today: Russel Albion rolled 6 using 1d8 with rolls of 6.  Damage.
08:41, Today: Russel Albion rolled 5 using 1d6 with rolls of 5.  Backstab Bonus.

The Patchwork God
GM, 793 posts
Mon 19 Sep 2022
at 16:25
  • msg #85

Missing Guildmate

Gorrid causes one of the spiders to stumble, before Russel finishes it up. The second spider scuttles toward Idi and Spriggy, while the third returns to it's feet, clacking menacingly at Buckthorn.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 461 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Tue 20 Sep 2022
at 01:42
  • msg #86

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy watched the scuffle from behind his shield for a few moments, looking for a good opportunity to blast one of his spells or sing a magical tune. The opportunity never came though. At least not before one of the automatons charged himself and Idi. Rather than merely hunker down behind his shield even further, Spriggy decided it was probably time to go on the offensive.

"Watch this," the bard said to Idi. He then turned around so his back was facing the mechanical spider, put his hands onto the floor, then kicked into the air to strike at the machine with his feet. Except by the time his feet struck the machine, they were hooves. And Spriggy was much larger than a moment before. He had taken on the form of a horse that one of his friends used to ride around. "Neigh!!!"


Shapeshifting into horse-form.
21:32, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 1,6.  Shapeshifter - to horse.
I get 2 Hold.

I will use 1 Hold to Kick Someone. The notes that were originally given for the move are, "you can Hack and Slash as normal, but that will let you get rid of a foe right away."
Buckthorn
player, 170 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 1 XP
Tue 20 Sep 2022
at 04:37
  • msg #87

Missing Guildmate

It's an easy decision for Buck not to square off toe-to-toe with an eight legged automation, but amidst a small chamber with the others engaged he takes a low stance with spear at the ready and prepares to defend himself and at least keep his foe occupied and if possible himself out of harm's way. He  backs away to gauge the mechanical assailant's next move but there's simply nowhere to go.

Buckthorn rolled 6 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 3,1.  Defend (self)
The Patchwork God
GM, 794 posts
Tue 20 Sep 2022
at 14:41
  • msg #88

Missing Guildmate

The horse buck sends the clockwork creature flying, until it heavily crashes into the wall. It's legs twitches in an uncoordinated manner, unable to return to it's feet.

As Buckthorn tries to back away, the spider lashes out faster and faster, threatening to overwhelm the poor halfling.

OOC: The spider deals 6 points of damage to Buckthorn. What do you do?
Russel Albion
player, 124 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 20 Sep 2022
at 17:27
  • msg #89

Missing Guildmate

With the mechanical contraption focused on Buckhorn, Russel moves in to make another Backstab.
He again jabbed his sword between where a leg joined its body, since that worked for the other one.
13:19, Today: Russel Albion rolled 11 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 3,5.  Backstab w/Bonus.
He chooses Both
You deal your damage+1d6
You create an advantage, +1 forward to an ally (Buckhorn) acting on it.
13:24, Today: Russel Albion rolled 6,5 using 1D8,1D6 with rolls of 6,5.  Damage.
Buckthorn
player, 171 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 2 XP
Wed 21 Sep 2022
at 01:06
  • msg #90

Missing Guildmate

Buck refrains from calling out or calling attention to his fellow Phoenix Blade as he sees Russel make his move. Unfortunately his stoic choice results in a nasty slash from the spider. Turning, Buck barely raises an arm in his own defense as he's struck just before his rogue companion connects by sword.

With little room between himself and the spider, Buck jams a spear into the whirl of oncoming appendages but fails to land a meaningful attack.

Buckthorn rolled 7 using 2d6+1 Hack & Slash.
Buckthorn rolled 1 using 1d6 Damage
This message was last edited by the player at 05:49, Thu 22 Sept 2022.
The Patchwork God
GM, 795 posts
Sat 24 Sep 2022
at 00:24
  • msg #91

Missing Guildmate

Although Buckthorn's spear fails to penetrate the thing's armor, Russel's knowledge of locks and mechanism lets him find the weakness of the machine, and swiftly disables it.

With a chance to safely look around the room, you can see the room beyond the metal door has no exits, but the other tunnel leads deeper into the ruins, turning just at the limits of your lights. The walls seems more cracked and damage further in, though debris have been cleared by the automated maintenance of the place.
Buckthorn
player, 173 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 3 XP
Sat 24 Sep 2022
at 00:54
  • msg #92

Missing Guildmate

"That must lead to the ore, whatever they were mining." Buck surmises of the tunnel leading deeper into the ruins. "Perhaps the well ran dry, so to speak." he thinks aloud, contemplating what worrisome circumstance lead the dwarfs to abandoning a place they were so obviously invested in.

He studies the metal door then tries to get a better look beyond the barrier into the near room.

Buckthorn rolled 10 using 2d6+2 Discern Realities
What should I be on the lookout for?
What here is useful or valuable to me?
What here is not what it appears to be?
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 698 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 1
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sat 24 Sep 2022
at 03:40
  • msg #93

Missing Guildmate

The paladin checked that everyone was ok, then removed the gyros of the remaining spiders, stashing them somewhere safe for when they made their way back out.  Then he waited for the all-clear from his teammates.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 463 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Sun 25 Sep 2022
at 02:18
  • msg #94

Missing Guildmate

When the battle was over, Spriggy resumed his elven form. "I really hope Charlotte didn't run into as much trouble as we are," he commented. His concern for her safety only increased with every threat they came upon. He stayed back a safe distance as Buckthorn made his observations, but also remained attentive himself. He especially made a point to watch the ceiling in case any more mechanical spiders tried to drop down.
The Patchwork God
GM, 796 posts
Sun 25 Sep 2022
at 15:54
  • msg #95

Missing Guildmate

Once you've gathered the three gyros, the only thing of value that could be left would be in the closed chest, behind the door. You do notice one of the tubes passing above you has an opening large enough for those spiders to go through.

Speaking of the spiders, looking at their remains tells you they have had regular maintenance. Though seeing how there's no signs that they've ever been improved or redecorated, you assume the maintenance was done by other spiders.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 464 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Sun 25 Sep 2022
at 18:28
  • msg #96

Missing Guildmate

After the spider tube was discovered, Spriggy reluctantly offered a suggestion. "I could probably change shape and check out the spider tube. It might reveal some shortcuts that could greatly reduce our time to find Charlotte. It would be dangerous though, for sure. Buckthorn, do you have any small forms you could take? It would be much less dangerous if two of us could go together. And I could set up some telepathy with someone staying behind before we go, too."
Buckthorn
player, 174 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 3 XP
Sun 25 Sep 2022
at 19:06
  • msg #97

Missing Guildmate

"It had crossed my mind." Buck replies, with a look of concentration heavy upon his face as he contemplated the access way.
Idi
player, 133 posts
level 4 cleric of Thovis
HP: 22/22, armor: 2
Mon 26 Sep 2022
at 18:50
  • msg #98

Missing Guildmate

Idi holds back while the autospiders are dispatched, then looks around warily one more time before relaxing a little. He rattles the barred door, contemplating the lock. "I don't suppose anyone has any experience with locks...?" His gaze settles on Russel briefly, but doesn't want to make too many assumptions.

"I'm afraid I don't have much to offer you getting through those tubes," he says turning his attention upwards. "But I'll pray for you."


How big are the spiders? And/or the tubes they can scuttle through.
Buckthorn
player, 175 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 4 XP
Tue 27 Sep 2022
at 02:07
  • msg #99

Missing Guildmate

Idi rattling the door and discussing its lock is a welcome distraction for Buck who takes the opportunity to step back, away from the group and most curious eyes.

A moment later a sizable centipede about 6 inches head-to-end is smoothly scaling the stonework towards the access pipe above the door. The lithe creature is deep brown with a dull shine to its carapace and has 30 pairs of orange legs with orange pincers and eyes to match. It halts upon reaching the tube and appears to look down on the would-be rescuers.

Buckthorn rolled 5 using 2d6+2  Shape Shift
This message was last edited by the player at 02:14, Tue 27 Sept 2022.
Russel Albion
player, 125 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 27 Sep 2022
at 12:33
  • msg #100

Missing Guildmate

In response to Idi, "I've encountered a lock or two that were not as secure as their owner's would have wished. Let me take a look at this one."

Russel studies the lock and pokes at it with some bits he just happens to be carrying for this sort of occasion.
"Looks like Idi's shaking has jiggled it loose." With that he pulled the door open, carefully.

08:25, Today: Russel Albion rolled 15 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 6,6.  Tricks of the Trade.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 466 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Tue 27 Sep 2022
at 12:37
  • msg #101

Missing Guildmate

Taking note that Buckthorn was slipping away to transform, Spriggy also attempted to transform into a smaller form. A chipmunk to be exact. Perhaps he should have practiced more with this particular shape first though...


Shapeshift to chipmunk. Failure. +1 XP!
08:33, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 6 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 1,4.  Shapeshifter - to chipmunk.
1 hold.
The Patchwork God
GM, 797 posts
Tue 27 Sep 2022
at 15:14
  • msg #102

Missing Guildmate

The door opens without protest, and Russel find nothing dangerous inside the storage room. The chest isn't locked or trap, and contains a metal keg of dwarven stout, a box of hardtack, and a forgotten gold bracelet (worth 50c).

With their legs splayed out normally, the spiders are about five feet across. But being machines, they could shuffle without trouble in the three-feet wide tubes that are scattered all over the place. For people, that would be far more unpleasant. Not that it's a problem for the large bug and squirrel slipping into the tubes as you watch.
Buckthorn
player, 177 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 4 XP
Wed 28 Sep 2022
at 02:07
  • msg #103

Missing Guildmate

The centipede turns and disappears down the tube.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 699 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 1
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 28 Sep 2022
at 03:52
  • msg #104

Missing Guildmate

While he waited for the two shape-changers to return, the paladin opted to head a little ways up the tunnel, checking for signs of travel and listening for any indication that their quarry (or perhaps additional threats) were anywhere nearby.  Finally, he wanted to figure out if there was some sort of control mechanism that drove the behavior of the spiders.  The dwarves had designed this place for a purpose.  If he could suss out what that was, maybe it would give his group an edge.

quote:
23:49, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 12 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 6,4.  Discern realities.

What happened here recently?
What should I be on the lookout for?
Who's really in control here?
The Patchwork God
GM, 798 posts
Wed 28 Sep 2022
at 14:38
  • msg #105

Missing Guildmate

Looking a bit further ahead, you see the tunnel has a large double door on one side, while the tunnel itself continues further ahead. The doors are opened just a crack, letting you see what seems like the opening of a mining area. Although there's not much littering the area, you do notice a few scratches in the rock and occasional blood stains, indicating someone fought here in the last few days. Most likely, the expedition you're seeking forced their way through, but the spiders cleared out any damaged clockworks away.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:39, Wed 28 Sept 2022.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 700 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 1
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 28 Sep 2022
at 16:33
  • msg #106

Missing Guildmate

To clarify, it looks like someone forced their way through the doors to the mine, or someone forced their way through the passage further along.
The Patchwork God
GM, 799 posts
Wed 28 Sep 2022
at 18:54
  • msg #107

Missing Guildmate

Through the passage. You don't see signs of struggle in the mine section.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 701 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 1
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 28 Sep 2022
at 19:43
  • msg #108

Missing Guildmate

The knight wandered back and relayed what he'd seen.  He also did his best to reposition the hidden gyros to areas where it seemed unlikely future spider creatures would be able to reach.
Buckthorn
player, 178 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 4 XP
Wed 28 Sep 2022
at 23:11
  • msg #109

Missing Guildmate

As Gorrid's report from the tunnel ahead concludes, a wildcat's scream and a pitch-black Mire Lynx explode from the tube over the nearby doorway, crashing to the ground in a heap as it reverts into Buckthorn's normal shape.

It's quickly followed by his loud callout; "IT'S BAD! Some form of guardians run the tubes and are headed our way!" Buck distances himself from the tube outlet as he scrambles to his feet, readying his spear. "Did Spriggy follow me in? If so, he's in trouble!" Buck can't seem to take his eyes off the tube access to look around the room for the elf.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:14, Wed 28 Sept 2022.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 702 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 1
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Thu 29 Sep 2022
at 02:12
  • msg #110

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid pulled back his sword, which had been uncomfortably close to piercing the halfling through and turned to face the tube.  There was no way he would fit through to help the bard, so he'd just have to hope the man/creature found his way out one way or the other.  What he could do, was prepare for whatever followed.  The paladin began to pray.

quote:
22:09, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 3,6.  Cast bless.
22:09, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 2,5.  Cast magic weapon on gauntlets.

If I have time to get the second one off, I'll forget the spell.  Planning to use my hands rather than a sword as I'm expecting another magical contraption - though if Buckthorn explains otherwise before his second spell goes off, he'll adjust to his sword instead if the 'guardians' are fleshy and unlikely to break his weapon.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 467 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Fri 30 Sep 2022
at 02:51
  • msg #111

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy had in fact followed Buckthorn into the tube. Unfortunately his chipmunk brain was easily distracted. He found himself in a small cave full of glowing mushrooms and nothing better to do than to collect some food for the long winter ahead. So Spriggy did what any self-respecting chipmunk would do. He began chewing off chunks of glowing cave mushrooms and stuffing the pieces into his big cheeks.

For the moment he was completely oblivious to any danger that was present. Although chipmunks were certainly known to be easily spooked...


Spriggy is in a cave he found in the tunnels, doing important chipmunk chores.
Buckthorn
player, 179 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 4 XP
Fri 30 Sep 2022
at 06:05
  • msg #112

Missing Guildmate

"Can't imagine they stay rolled into a ball once they're free from the tubes. Can you smell the oil??"  Buck speaks frantically but quietly, to no one in particular as Gorrid prays next to him. The druid's frame is stiff with anticipation, straining to hear he adds "Listen..."
The Patchwork God
GM, 800 posts
Sat 1 Oct 2022
at 15:43
  • msg #113

Missing Guildmate

You wait for a few moments, anxious, until you hear a rolling sound overhead. Not long after, a large metal ball falls from the ceiling tubes. With a hiss of steam, the ball open, revealing a skeletal metal humanoid, with a sword for one arm, and a crossbow for the other.


Elsewhere, a small chipmunk nibbles on strange mushroom, testing their edibility.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 703 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 1
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sat 1 Oct 2022
at 15:57
  • msg #114

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid didn't even wait until the the ball had begun to unfurl before he attacked, smashing a fist into wherever it looked like the thing's gyro might be.

"The spiders won't be putting you back together when I'm done with you!"

quote:
11:55, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 13 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 5,4.  Hack & slash.
11:55, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 15 using d10+3d4 with rolls of 8,3,3,1.  Damage.

Russel Albion
player, 126 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Sat 1 Oct 2022
at 18:55
  • msg #115

Missing Guildmate

While Sir Gorrid held the thing's attention, Russel maneuvered into position for a backstab.
With a quick jab he shoved his sword into what looked like a weak spot.
14:52, Today: Russel Albion rolled 8 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 3,2.  Backstab w/Bonus.
14:53, Today: Russel Albion rolled 5,3 using 1D8,1D6 with rolls of 5,3.  Backstab Damage.
Buckthorn
player, 180 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 4 XP
Sun 2 Oct 2022
at 02:05
  • msg #116

Missing Guildmate

With their new foe pressed from two sides by knight and rogue, Buck takes a third angle, wielding his spear like a quarterstaff. He knows not just any hit will do against such a construct so he takes aim for the most fragile looking framework he can spot and thrusts the hardwood handle into the midst of the thing. A frustrated growl escapes Buck's gritted teeth when his solid blow feels like it does very little.

Buckthorn rolled 10 using 2d6 with rolls of 5,5  Hack & Slash
Buckthorn rolled 2 using 1d6 Damage
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 469 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Mon 3 Oct 2022
at 02:48
  • msg #117

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy does more chipmunk stuff out of sight of everyone else.

Private to GM:
The Patchwork God
GM, 801 posts
Mon 3 Oct 2022
at 14:59
  • msg #118

Missing Guildmate

The metal man swings it's sword at Gorrid as he approaches, only for it to slide off the paladin's armor. Gorrid grapples the thing before it can brings it's crossbow up, giving Russel the chance to stab into the creature's torso articulation, breaking it apart and destroying your opponent.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 705 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 2
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Mon 3 Oct 2022
at 16:16
  • msg #119

Missing Guildmate

After verifying the creature was well and truly disabled, Sir Gorrid positioned himself back near the tube entrance.  "Buckthorn, any idea how many we should expect?"  He listened himself so he'd be prepared for whatever appeared next.  He also wondered about how the bard was doing.  Unfortunately he didn't have any obvious plan on how to go after the chipmunk.  Even if he took off his armor, his old bones were not exactly made for crawling around in metal tubes...

quote:
12:15, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 5 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 1,1.  Discern realities.


And that would be an XP.  The most important question I *would* have asked is 'What is about to happen?'
Buckthorn
player, 181 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 4 XP
Tue 4 Oct 2022
at 03:23
  • msg #120

Missing Guildmate

Buck shakes his head no in response to the Knight's query, still curiously studying the downed mechanical man.

"I couldn't fathom a guess. I wouldn't welcome more than one at a time though." he adds a moment later, using his spear to assist himself in standing upright. "Anything of import in the other room?" Buck asks, before changing the subject and concluding  "I should see after the elf."
Russel Albion
player, 127 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 4 Oct 2022
at 17:13
  • msg #121

Missing Guildmate

Russel responds to Buckhorn's question. "Just someone's food stash that got left behind. Nothing of note."
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 470 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Thu 6 Oct 2022
at 02:56
  • msg #122

Missing Guildmate

*More secret chipmunk adventures*

Secretly to GM:
Buckthorn
player, 182 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 4 XP
Thu 6 Oct 2022
at 06:36
  • msg #123

Missing Guildmate

With Squiggy likely in harms way, Buck has no time for modesty and unceremoniously morphs back into a Mire Lynx. He silently leaps for the tube above the door and scrambles inside.

Buckthorn rolled 7 using 2d6+2.  Shapeshifter, HOLD 2
The Patchwork God
GM, 802 posts
Thu 6 Oct 2022
at 17:53
  • msg #124

Missing Guildmate

Buckthorn slips into the tube, and quickly finds Spriggy's scent. Following it, you reach a breach in the tube, opening into what looks like a natural cavern, it's walls covered in glowing mushrooms. The light is faint, but your keen eyes spots a squirrel fleeing on the wall, from a giant centipede. But it looks like a second bug is about to cut off the squirrel's exit...
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 471 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Mon 10 Oct 2022
at 00:03
  • msg #125

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy's chipmunk mind was still in overdrive and he did the only logical thing when he noticed the second centipede. Logical to a chipmunk, at least. He launched himself off of the cave wall and out into thin air. He didn't know where he was leaping too but that was future-Spriggy's problem.

Unfortunately, future-Spriggy immediately became present-Spriggy...


Spriggy is taking a leap of faith out into the darkness to try and avoid both centipedes. Where does he land? Do I need to roll anything?
Buckthorn
player, 184 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 4 XP
Mon 10 Oct 2022
at 22:30
  • msg #126

Missing Guildmate

Bounding into the dark cavern the Mire lynx leaps to grab the fleeing rodent from midair. It takes a concentrated effort to land avoiding the centipedes while not down on the rescued chipmunk. With only the muffled sound of large padded paws, the big cat deftly turns for the exit.

Buckthorn makes a dash back to the breaking the pipe to complete their escape and return to the relative safety near Gorrid and the others.

1 hold for the leap (High Jump) and a second, final hold spent for the Dash away. Assuming there's time for both moves without interruption.
The Patchwork God
GM, 804 posts
Tue 11 Oct 2022
at 14:47
  • msg #127

Missing Guildmate

With the mammal captured, the two shapeshifter quickly returns to the rest of the group, returning to their normal form as they land in the room.
Buckthorn
player, 185 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 4 XP
Tue 11 Oct 2022
at 16:18
  • msg #128

Missing Guildmate

Bucks dutifully alerts the others to the possibility of centipedes before the group proceeds further into the dwarven complex, commenting on their toxic bite. He also does his best to to describe what he was able to take in from his short time in the cave, regretting not being able to study the place.

"Are you alright??" he asks Spriggy, Buck desperately wanted to ask about the glowing fungi but for now is more concerned with the elf's well being.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 472 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Wed 12 Oct 2022
at 14:40
  • msg #129

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy sat on the ground for a few moments, processing what had just happened now that he had his elven mind back. "I-" He spit out a mouthful of glowing mushrooms into his palm. "I think I'll be alright. So long as these aren't poisonous." He offered the mushrooms to Buckthorn or Russel to examine, since they were the nature or poison specialists of the group.

"I- I got lost in the chipmunk's mind for a while back there. I'm sorry. That has never happened before..."
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 706 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 2
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 12 Oct 2022
at 19:20
  • msg #130

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid continued to keep an eye on the tube, in case anything else opted to pop out of it...
Buckthorn
player, 186 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Thu 13 Oct 2022
at 01:55
  • msg #131

Missing Guildmate

Buck carefully selects a single mushroom from the bard's hand, with a bit of a disgusted sneer on his face. He then takes a few steps away, allowing the others to do as they wish with the remaining strange fungi. Wracking his brain to come up with some bit of knowledge worth sharing, Buck comes up empty and just shakes his head quietly after a few moments of intense inspection of the thing.

Buckthorn rolled 6 using 2d6+2 Spout Lore (Glowing Mushroom)
The Patchwork God
GM, 805 posts
Thu 13 Oct 2022
at 15:16
  • msg #132

Missing Guildmate

You're not as familiar with underground fungi as with the ones in swamps, but these things seems similar to a form of hallucinogenic mushrooms you've encountered before.

Hopefully, the small amount a squirrel managed to eat won't be enough to affect a grown half-elf.
Buckthorn
player, 187 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Thu 13 Oct 2022
at 16:49
  • msg #133

Missing Guildmate

"If you've ever felt like giving back a meal, now might be a good time." Buck says to Spriggy, trying to make the suggestion of vomiting sound as pleasant as possible.

"Otherwise we'll just keep an eye on him" he warns the others, pocketing the mushroom cap he was studying for now.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 473 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 18/18, Armor 2
Thu 20 Oct 2022
at 01:55
  • msg #134

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy's expression went sour as he started working up the nerve to try and make himself vomit, but then his face suddenly brightened and he pulled out a small pouch from his pocket instead. Inside was a small square of cloth that he delicately unfolded on his palm. Ironically, the item revealed was a tiny dried mushroom. The bard popped it into his mouth without a second thought. "The antitoxin I just took will probably do much better work than any amount of vomiting ever could," he said with a smile. His teeth glowed faintly from the residue still lingering from the glowing fungi he had ingested earlier.

"Shall we continue onward?" He wasn't sure if the others had discovered a reason to linger while he had been lost inside the chipmunk mind.


Using one Antitoxin on myself, just in case.
The Patchwork God
GM, 806 posts
Mon 24 Oct 2022
at 17:41
  • msg #135

Missing Guildmate

With no reasons to wait around, you head out into the corridor. It's straight, with two rows of columns holding up the ceiling. At the end, it turns to the left, while a double door is cracked open on your right. You can see the doors lead to the entrance of a mine, and Spriggy and Buckthorn notice a faint blue glow in the tunnels, similar to the mushroom glow you've seen earlier.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 707 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 2
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Mon 24 Oct 2022
at 22:04
  • msg #136

Missing Guildmate

Happy to be moving again (and not worrying about how he'd manage to chase after companions down a narrow tub), the knight pushed open the door to the mine and took a good look around, thankful for the light the phosphorescent mushrooms provided.

quote:
18:02, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 2,5.  Discern realities.


If I can, I'd like to use the +1 from my previous tunnel exploration to turn that into a 10.

Questions:
What happened here recently?
What should I be on the lookout for?
What here is useful or valuable to me?
Russel Albion
player, 128 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Mon 24 Oct 2022
at 23:55
  • msg #137

Missing Guildmate

Russel kept his eyes and ears open for anything unusual he could see or hear past Sir Gorrid's shoulder. Being taller that Sir Gorrid helped.
Buckthorn
player, 188 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Tue 25 Oct 2022
at 03:23
  • msg #138

Missing Guildmate

"Anything interesting?" Buck asks from the back of the pack.
The Patchwork God
GM, 807 posts
Wed 2 Nov 2022
at 16:05
  • msg #139

Missing Guildmate

It doesn't seem anyone went into the mines for a long time. There's no signs that the automatons come here either, so the place is both dustier and could have wild creatures going around in there. Still, it could be a relatively safe place to camp, if you don't want to be threatened by the machines.
Russel Albion
player, 129 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Wed 2 Nov 2022
at 18:06
  • msg #140

Missing Guildmate

"Any sign of Charlotte or the others in the dust?"
Russel help back a sneeze from the dust that had been stirred up from the previous battle.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 708 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 2
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 2 Nov 2022
at 18:21
  • msg #141

Missing Guildmate

"Does anyone want to rest, or should we keep pressing on?"

The knight's body language seemed to indicate he was fully prepared to do the latter, but he was willing to pause if that was the desire of the group.
Buckthorn
player, 189 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Thu 3 Nov 2022
at 01:30
  • msg #142

Missing Guildmate

"I don't suppose anyone is handy with mending wounds?" Buck asked, producing a healing poultice from his leather shoulder bag. The places he had been struck in the earlier spider encounter were in need of attention, and he couldn't easily apply and tie the compress himself.

"If so, I'll be ready and willing to continue in short order."
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 709 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 2
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Thu 3 Nov 2022
at 04:03
  • msg #143

Missing Guildmate

The paladin walked over to the halfling.

"Let me see what I can do..."
He laid his hands on the short creature's forehead and murmured a quiet prayer.  The halfling's wounds faded, only to appear on the elder paladin's own face and arm.  Showing no concern at what had transpired, he then moved to Russel and repeated his action

quote:
23:49, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 3,4.  Lay on Hands.
23:50, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 6 using 1d8 with rolls of 6.  Damage transferred.
23:55, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 7 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 1,5.  Lay on Hands (Russel).
23:55, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 1 using 1d8 with rolls of 1.
23:56, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 10 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 5,4.  Lay on hands (Russel - 2nd try).
23:56, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 3 using 1d8 with rolls of 3.  healing.
23:57, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 1,6.  Cure light wounds (self).
23:58, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 4 using 2d8 with rolls of 2,2.


So, after all of that, I transferred 6 damage from Buckthorn to me (which should bring him to full), 1 damage from Russel to me, healed Russel of 3 more (which should fully heal him) and then healed myself for 4.  That leaves me down 3, but I'm happy to move on with that.

I'll forget the cure light spell

(side note - I should have rolled 2d8 for the Lay on Hands, but forgot)
Russel Albion
player, 130 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Thu 3 Nov 2022
at 12:27
  • msg #144

Missing Guildmate

Russel's damage had been retracted so you can use my heal on someone else or save it.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 710 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 2
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Thu 3 Nov 2022
at 14:18
  • msg #145

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy?  Anyone else?
Buckthorn
player, 190 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Fri 4 Nov 2022
at 05:54
  • msg #146

Missing Guildmate

"Remarkable." says Buck in a flat but curious tone. He wraps the poultice back up and returns it to his carrying bag.

He feels his former wounds with his hands, and doesn't clarify if his comment is regarding the paladin's abilities or his selflessness. He thanks Gorrid, tips his spear up to his shoulder and looks to the others for marching orders.
The Patchwork God
GM, 808 posts
Fri 4 Nov 2022
at 16:09
  • msg #147

Missing Guildmate

Continuing along the corridor, you come across two sets of double doors on either side. The left ones seems to have been disturbed recently, but a damaged sword is placed across both door handles, in a weak attempt to keep it close. The right ones seems untouched.

And ahead, the corridor continues into the darkness, with Charlotte somewhere further ahead.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 711 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 2
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Fri 4 Nov 2022
at 16:27
  • msg #148

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid examined the door and the area around it, including checking for signs of blood.  However, he was careful to leave the sword in place.  The fact the door was still barred was a positive sign, but having some idea about what the threat had been might be useful in the future.

quote:
12:25, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 3,6.  Discern realities.

What happened here recently?
What should I be on the lookout for?
What here is useful or valuable to me?
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 474 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Sat 5 Nov 2022
at 02:04
  • msg #149

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy was glad they had decided to continue onward. A short break to regain composure was nice, but a full-blown pit stop seemed unnecessary. Especially after Gorrid used his magic to heal people. Spriggy himself had a minor scuff, but it wasn't even bad enough to bother putting bandages on.

When they reached the new doors, Spriggy stood back and let Gorrid do his usual investigations. The man had a knack for it, it seemed. "What do you discern?" the bard asked Gorrid after a while. "Anything noteworthy? Besides the obvious, of course. Do I need to look for any resident critters to try and get them to answer some questions?" He doubted such lengths would need to be taken, but Spriggy still wanted to offer.


To answer Gorrid's earlier question, Spriggy is missing 1 HP, but it isn't worth backtracking to heal it. Also, I have bandages if anyone ever needs them.
The Patchwork God
GM, 809 posts
Sat 5 Nov 2022
at 18:07
  • msg #150

Missing Guildmate

There are some traces of blood on the left door. Just a few drips and smears against the door, as if someone injured pushed it close. You can also hear some faint grinding noise on the other side of the door. It doesn't look like anyone tried to force the door open, though.

You can't heard anything behind the right door.
Buckthorn
player, 191 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Sat 5 Nov 2022
at 19:10
  • msg #151

Missing Guildmate

Buck takes an interest in the seemingly untouched set of doors opposite the barricaded pair.  After a few moments of study and hearing nothing behind it he joins the inspection of the of the bloodied and barred doors.

"Either someone chose poorly and decided to cut their losses and move on, or they knew better than to open the other set of doors for fear of something worse. Curious." he surmises.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 475 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Thu 10 Nov 2022
at 01:36
  • msg #152

Missing Guildmate

"As much as I would like to investigate every nook and cranny of this place, I think it seems unlikely that Charlotte is behind either of these doors. We should probably continue onward if we wish to have any hope of catching up to her." Even as he said it, he looked at the closed doors longingly. He was a curious bard and wanted so badly to know what dangers were locked away behind the thresholds. An adventure for another time, he supposed.
Buckthorn
player, 192 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Thu 10 Nov 2022
at 02:38
  • msg #153

Missing Guildmate

"Agreed, at the risk of ending our expedition prematurely or incurring unnecessary injuries, it is probably best we press on." Buck peers into the darkening corridor ahead and awaits for someone else to make a move to continue.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 712 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 2
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Thu 10 Nov 2022
at 20:41
  • msg #154

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid shrugged his shoulders and, shield before him and sword at the ready, continued down the hallway, watching and listening for any clue as to the location of their quarry - or threats in the way.

quote:
13:40, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,4.  Discern realities.


What happened here recently?
What should I be on the lookout for?
What here is useful or valuable to me?
The Patchwork God
GM, 810 posts
Fri 11 Nov 2022
at 17:44
  • msg #155

Missing Guildmate

After walking a bit further, you come across a large room that Gorrid recognize as a form of barbican. Most of the room is occupied by a large pit, about eight feet deep, and containing four spheres automatons... as well as a couple of dead bodies.

A six feet wide corridor passes along the left side of the pit, next to the heavily decorated wall. On the far side of the room is an open area with a double door leaving the room, flanked by arrow slits. Overall, if it was manned, it would be a devastating choke point to stop invaders.

Thankfully, you see no signs of it being manned, though you have no doubt the Dwarves left traps behind to stop invaders. It's probably what caused the death of the two humans in the pit. You can't see for certain what killed them from where you are, but with the amount of blood you see, it was probably those automatons.
Russel Albion
player, 131 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 11 Nov 2022
at 18:05
  • msg #156

Missing Guildmate

Russel tries to spot whatever traps may have been left by the Dwarves, before someone triggers them.
12:59, Today: Russel Albion rolled 6,4 using 1D6,1D6+3 with rolls of 6,1.  Trick of the Trade (Trap?).
The Patchwork God
GM, 811 posts
Sat 12 Nov 2022
at 18:25
  • msg #157

Missing Guildmate

It doesn't take you long to figure out the devious plan the Dwarves had. The only small ledge on the side has a series of pressure plates across the floor, linked to movable sections of the walls camouflaged within the intricate series of tubes that decorates it. Anyone crossing carelessly would be not-so-gently pushed into the pit, where the sphere would dispose of the uninvited guests.

If there's a mean of disarming this trap, it's probably in the guard house, and out of your reach.
Buckthorn
player, 193 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Sat 12 Nov 2022
at 20:03
  • msg #158

Missing Guildmate

"Excellent eye, Russel." Buck lauds the bowman.

"It's odd to say but the perhaps the bodies give some comfort their party forged this far." he absentmindedly taps the butt of his spear on the ground, pondering the plates on the path ahead. Buck eyes Spriggy, "I'd wager they didn't plan for a bird this far underground."
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 476 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Wed 16 Nov 2022
at 01:10
  • msg #159

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy replied to Buckthorn's comment with a sly grin. "I reckon you are correct. Wish I had found a bat on our way in, but I suppose a vulture or swan will have to do. Vulture is probably better. I may need some one to give me a little toss forward to get a flight boost in here though. Let's link minds this time too."

The bard went about casting a telepathy spell, and linked his mind to Russel's if Russel allowed it. There might be more traps ahead and Russel would be the one who would likely know what Spriggy comes across. Spriggy then concentrated on the form of a vulture, spreading his dark wings within the grim passageway. He flew forward to see if he could safely disarm the traps from further ahead.


Casting Telepathy on Russel, then Shapeshifting into a vulture to fly over the pressure plates.

21:09, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 12 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 4,5.  Cast Telepathy on Russel.
No issues.

21:09, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 10 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 3,6.  Shapeshifter - to vulture.
Hold 3.
Russel Albion
player, 132 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Wed 16 Nov 2022
at 18:16
  • msg #160

Missing Guildmate

While Russel wasn't thrilled by the idea of linking minds, he understood the need and agreed.
"What do I have to do to make this linking work?" he asked nerviously.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 477 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Fri 18 Nov 2022
at 01:07
  • msg #161

Missing Guildmate

"Just think the thoughts that you want me to hear," thought Spriggy through the magical link, demonstrating how to do it. To everyone besides Russel though, it probably seemed like he was ignoring the question.
Russel Albion
player, 133 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 18 Nov 2022
at 18:40
  • msg #162

Missing Guildmate

Well, that I can do, Russel thought while mouthing the words silently.
Buckthorn
player, 194 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Sat 19 Nov 2022
at 02:23
  • msg #163

Missing Guildmate

"After the bloodied door we encountered, I have a feeling time is of the essence." Buck breaks the odd silence following Russel's one-sided conversation with the buzzard, with a tone imploring action. He didn't voice his opinion that they were likely too late already.
The Patchwork God
GM, 812 posts
Sat 19 Nov 2022
at 03:12
  • msg #164

Missing Guildmate

Flying over the pit, you're sure any archers in the guard post would have not trouble shooting you down. So it's a good thing it's empty. You continue down the corridor, avoiding any trap there, until you find a pair of doors that you think leads into the guard post.
Russel Albion
player, 136 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Sun 20 Nov 2022
at 18:23
  • msg #165

Missing Guildmate

08:05, Today: Russel Albion rolled 3,8 using 1D6,1D6+3 with rolls of 3,5.  Tricks of the Trade.
Russsel thought to Spriggy, what to check for and what not to touch if it was there.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 479 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 21 Nov 2022
at 02:51
  • msg #166

Missing Guildmate

After finding what he hoped was safe spot to land, Spriggy transformed back into his own elven form to check for traps. He mentally asked Russel a lot of questions about what to look for and was extremely grateful that he had established their link. Russel's insights proved to be invaluable because Spriggy otherwise would have been in way over his head.

"I... I think I've got it," Spriggy yelled aloud down the corridor when he felt he had searched for traps everywhere that needed searching, and (hopefully) disabled any he may have found. "I'm going to enter the guard post now and try to disable the traps in the hallway for you guys. Stand by." He repeated his words mentally to Russel just in case his voice was too faint or echoey to be understood clearly all the way down the corridor.
Russel Albion
player, 137 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Mon 21 Nov 2022
at 02:58
  • msg #167

Missing Guildmate

"Spriggy said he is going in to try and clear the way for us," Russel told the others.
The Patchwork God
GM, 815 posts
Mon 21 Nov 2022
at 17:41
  • msg #168

Missing Guildmate

The guard post could have easily kept half-a-dozen guards at a time, with a table and chair to relax while others are keeping watch. Following Russel's guidance, you see a pair of levers on one of the walls. After a bit of back and forth, Russel figures one of them will trigger every traps around, while the other disables them.

With the path open, you continue deeper, reaching a shut down foundry. There's some heat coming from below, but it seems to be a small leak from the boiler that powers this place. Various tunnels head out in different directions, a sprawling maze of Dwarven warrens spread under the weight of the mountains.

Thankfully, Gorrid can still sense the direction to Charlotte, and a broken sphere guardian confirms you're on the right path. Then as the path opens into a wider room, you hear a frustrated groan ahead, followed by someone laughing. Human voices.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 713 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Mon 21 Nov 2022
at 22:16
  • msg #169

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid ceased moving.  Stealth was not his thing and it was probably a good idea to get some sense of what was going on ahead before charging in.  He looked to the thief and the shape changers to see if they were willing to take the lead.  However, if they had indeed caught up to their quarry, then combat was likely to be imminent, so he prayed quietly, reading his mind and heart for what was likely to follow.  Though perhaps his prayers weren't as quiet as he'd intended...

quote:
15:15, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 5 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 1,2.  Cast bless.

If I have the chance to try again, I will, but first we'll see what happens :)

XP marked
Russel Albion
player, 139 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 22 Nov 2022
at 18:48
  • msg #170

Missing Guildmate

After silently waving everyone to hold where they were, Russel carefully moves quietly forward to get a better listen and even a peek at what is going on ahead.

If the mind link with Spriggy is still in effect, he will relay what he finds.
The Patchwork God
GM, 817 posts
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 18:12
  • msg #171

Missing Guildmate

A silent slip ahead, and Russel sees a classical scene. Four guards, too bored to pay attention to more than their dice game. They took some precautions, but they consist of piles of metallic junk against the trap doors on the large pipes around the room, and across the door. Nothing you can't step over.

Unfortunately, behind you, Gorrid turns up to be a bit less alert, his sword tipping over one of the piles as he kneels to pray, creating a lot of noise echoing through the room as the guards stumbles to their feet. They've yet to see you Russel, but they're heading straight toward you.
Russel Albion
player, 140 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 18:34
  • msg #172

Missing Guildmate

Slipping back behind Gorrid, Russel unlimbers his bow while thinking to Spriggy what he saw.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 714 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 18:59
  • msg #173

Missing Guildmate

"Oops..."
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 480 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Thu 24 Nov 2022
at 02:23
  • msg #174

Missing Guildmate

After mentally hearing what Russel had seen, Spriggy relayed the information to the others hastily and quietly, knowing that they only had a moment to react. Before their potential enemies came into view, Spriggy pulled out a small pouch, then held up his hands and stepped forward. "Hello? Are there other people here? We could use some assistance. We come in peace. I have some pipeleaf we could share if you would deign to show us some kind hospitality."


Spriggy is hoping to make friends instead of enemies. He will use his halfling pipeleaf if the guards are interested.
quote:
Halfling Pipeleaf; 6 uses, 5 coins, 0 weight

When you share halfling pipeleaf with someone, expend two uses and take +1 forward to parley with them.

The Patchwork God
GM, 818 posts
Thu 24 Nov 2022
at 16:33
  • msg #175

Missing Guildmate

The guards move closer to the edge of the corridor, most of them staying out of sight.  The guard you see has an actual uniforms, bearing a symbol you recognize from the Tiariai mansion.

"Who are you?" The guard shouts, shield raised.
Russel Albion
player, 141 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 25 Nov 2022
at 03:49
  • msg #176

Missing Guildmate

To Spriggy, one of the guards is wearing a uniform with the Tiariai mansion symbol, they must have stolen it!

22:46, Today: Russel Albion rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,4.  Discern Realities.
The Patchwork God
GM, 819 posts
Fri 25 Nov 2022
at 17:21
  • msg #177

Missing Guildmate

Looking more closely, you realize all four of them are wearing uniforms.


Because I forgot to mention, the corridor you're in is south of where the guard are.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:38, Sat 26 Nov 2022.
Russel Albion
player, 142 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 25 Nov 2022
at 23:48
  • msg #178

Missing Guildmate

Russel also mentions to Spriggy that one is heading toward a door to the west.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 481 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Tue 29 Nov 2022
at 01:07
  • msg #179

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy kept the information in mind that Russel had shared about the guards' uniforms but was not sure what to do with it just yet. He did motion with his fingers for his friends to keep an eye on their western flank though, in case the guard that headed that way was trying to get the drop on them.

"Who am I?" the bard replied. "I am Spriggy. Spriggy Glompgut. A traveling minstrel of sorts. A collector of tales and singer of songs. And who, may I ask, am I speaking to?" He tried to move to where he would have a good view of the guards, and where the guards would have a good view of him.
The Patchwork God
GM, 820 posts
Tue 29 Nov 2022
at 16:14
  • msg #180

Missing Guildmate

There's no way to see anyone other than the front guard from the corridor, though Russel sees a bit more from his hiding spot. The lead guard turns back, whispering something to the other people in his room, before turning back to you. "I'm Manau, and we've already claimed that part of the ruins. If you want loot, you'll have to look elsewhere. Pretty sure there's plenty enough for you."
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 483 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Sun 11 Dec 2022
at 00:47
  • msg #181

Missing Guildmate

"As interesting as all of the local artifacts may be, you can rest assured that we are not here for loot. We have gone to great lengths to come and speak with the man who's symbol you wear. Do you happen to know where master Tiariai is at present, Mr. Manau?" Spriggy watched carefully for any facial cues the man might give that could give further clues about their current situation.


Discerning Realities, if applicable. I am watching for any social cues that might reveal deceit, danger, concern, or other relevant emotions.
18:45, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 5 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 1,3.  Discern Realities - social cues.

Oof. +1 xp! Now let's see what bad thing happens.
The Patchwork God
GM, 822 posts
Sun 11 Dec 2022
at 18:25
  • msg #182

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy sees the man scowls, before ducking behind the corner. "Dammit, it's them!"

At that, a second guard lean around the corner, firing a bolt at Spriggy. What do you do?
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 715 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Sun 11 Dec 2022
at 21:11
  • msg #183

Missing Guildmate

Taking that as his cue that the talking thing was over and it was now his turn, Sir Gorrid charged forward.  He laid about with shield and the flat of his blade.  In theory, these were good men, so no point killing them.  Unfortunately the narrow tunnels made getting in a hit with any force behind it rather challenging...

"It's your own fault for not agreeing to the talking thing..." he said amiably as he swung away.  At worst, he could hold their attention while his friends figured out something that might be more effective.

quote:
14:07, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 10 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 4,3.  Hack & slash.
14:09, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 2 using 1d10+1 with rolls of 1.  damage.



Buckthorn
player, 196 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Mon 12 Dec 2022
at 08:17
  • msg #184

Missing Guildmate

With the knight breaking toward a fray, Buck follows closely with his spear at the ready. Flanking Sir Gorrid as best he could in order to Defend his friend, harry the footmen with feints, distractions, and to make a non-leathal nuisance of himself. He is hunched and ready to make a low sweep with his polearm.

Today: Buckthorn rolled 11 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 6,3.  Defend (Sir Gorrid) Hold: 3
This message was last edited by the player at 08:18, Mon 12 Dec 2022.
Russel Albion
player, 143 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Mon 12 Dec 2022
at 18:31
  • msg #185

Missing Guildmate

As Sir Gorrid charges in, Russel slips around the corner and into the room, with his bow ready to take a shot at a target of opportunity.
The Patchwork God
GM, 823 posts
Wed 14 Dec 2022
at 16:17
  • msg #186

Missing Guildmate

The crossbowman stumbles back, more surprised by Gorrid's blow then hurt by it. As the other two guards move to attack, it's pretty clear they don't share your hesitation about killing.

A Russel raises his bow, he's got a good line of sight on one of the guards moving toward Gorrid, as well as on the guard about to leave the room by the west door.
Russel Albion
player, 144 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Wed 14 Dec 2022
at 18:31
  • msg #187

Missing Guildmate

Seeing one of the guards about to leave by the west door, possibly to alert others, Russel loosed an arrow in an effort to stop him.

13:27, Today: Russel Albion rolled 6,8 using 1D6,1D6+3 with rolls of 6,5.  Volley.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 484 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Thu 15 Dec 2022
at 18:16
  • msg #188

Missing Guildmate

Despite not being surprised that a crossbow bolt was fired in his direction, Spriggy still lacked the speed and stamina required to properly deflect the projectile with his buckler. "Oof! Not good," he managed to mutter. He would have replied to the guard's words, but was a bit preoccupied by potential injury at the moment...


12:11, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,3.  Defy Danger + Con or Dex, deflecting crossbow bolt.
That's another XP! I am guessing I am going to take some damage here? How much?
The Patchwork God
GM, 824 posts
Mon 19 Dec 2022
at 16:48
  • msg #189

Missing Guildmate

Gorrid's charge threw off the guard's aim, and the bolt aimed at Spriggy just glances his armor.

Russel's arrow plants itself into the fleeing guard's shoulder, but it's not enough to stop him. While the crossbowman switches weapon, the other two guard move in to attack Gorrid, swinging their swords.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 716 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Mon 19 Dec 2022
at 17:09
  • msg #190

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid continued to lay about, holding the guards' attention, but still had trouble putting his full force behind his blade.
quote:
10:07, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 5,3.  Hack & slash guards.
10:07, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 3 using 1d10+1 with rolls of 2.  Damage.

Buckthorn
player, 199 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Thu 22 Dec 2022
at 03:27
  • msg #191

Missing Guildmate

Buck strafes a few steps from Gorrid, sweeping his spear in a wide motion to impede the two guards making a move on the knight, affecting their hasty approach. He stays low to avoid any successive, friendly arrows.(2 Hold, halving their attacks)

"Best to hurry with that one!" he adds, as if the old warrior presently entangled with the nearest guard didn't already know they were about to be right in the thick of things. (1 Hold, giving Gorrid +1 forward against the attacker)

Spriggy Glompgut
player, 485 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Fri 23 Dec 2022
at 04:59
  • msg #192

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy spun in a full circle as a projectile hit him hard enough to leave a bruise, but not hard enough to pierce his lightly armored shoulder. "I can't say I fully comprehend your choice to attack us, but I can guarantee you will come to regret that choice!" The bard had already begun to weave a spell and flung it at the furthest enemy he could see. He figured Gorrid would make short work of the ones that were closer.


22:51, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 13 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 4,6.  Cast Magic Missile at furthest guard I can see.

22:53, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 4 using 2d4 with rolls of 2,2.  Damage.
4 damage.
The Patchwork God
GM, 826 posts
Sat 24 Dec 2022
at 18:04
  • msg #193

Missing Guildmate

The guard swear as Spriggy's magic hits him, while Gorrid's foe merely grunts.

The third one find he can't advance with Buckthorn's spear blocking him, so he looks around for a moment, before striking one of the large tubes around the room, one that seems more rusty then the others.

"What are you doing!?" Manau shouts, stumbling back.

The guard at the pipe just grins. "Calling reinforcements." The pipe breaks, creating a cloud of steam between you and your opponents.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 717 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Mon 26 Dec 2022
at 04:50
  • msg #194

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid growled.  "We don't have time for these games!"

He pointed to the first guard with his sword.  "Time you were taught a lesson boy..."

He inverted his blade and slammed the middle-aged man in the head with the pommel of his blade.  His intent had been to knock the man out, but the skill seemed a bit more dented than he'd intended...

quote:
21:47, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 7 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 3,1.  Hack & slash with Exterimatus.
21:48, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 16 using d10+2d4+1 with rolls of 8,3,4.  Damage.

The Patchwork God
GM, 828 posts
Thu 29 Dec 2022
at 17:14
  • msg #195

Missing Guildmate

Gorrid didn't realize how distracted the guard was, and a blow that he managed to block off the last few times end up hitting him right in the chin, sending him to the ground.

But before you can celebrate, a rolling metallic sound echoes through the pipes surrounding you. With loud clangs, metal hatches open, releasing two spheres who transform into Dwarven metal guardians.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 486 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Thu 29 Dec 2022
at 18:28
  • msg #196

Missing Guildmate

As the steam began to fill the room and the rolling guardians appeared, Spriggy started to feel a bit worried. But perhaps not quite as worried as he should rightfully be. "I think I can distract these automatons for a bit. Stay focused on the guards."

With that said, Spriggy faced the metallic guardians with his buckler raised. He was about to test out a new technique he had been experimenting with. Hopefully it would work in the way he hoped it would. While focusing his voice in a very specific way, the bard unleashed a crazed performance on one of the guardians. It was a cacophonous salvo of bases and trebles. Harsh notes and soft tones overlapping in contradictory fashion. A sonic barrage meant to utterly confound the target of Spriggy's magical melody.


Using my ability called "It Goes to Eleven" for the first time.
13:25, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 12 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,5.  It Goes to Eleven, targeting a dwarven guardian robot.
quote:
It Goes To Eleven
When you unleash a crazed performance (a righteous lute solo or mighty brass blast, maybe) choose a target
who can hear you and roll+Cha.

* On a 10+ the target attacks their nearest ally in range.
* On a 7–9 they attack their nearest ally, but you also draw their attention and ire.

Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 718 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Thu 29 Dec 2022
at 22:34
  • msg #197

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid nodded at Spriggy's instruction and advanced on the next guard.  "Looks like you're next.  And I don't think your friends are going to make much difference..."

With a bit more room to maneuver, the flat of his blade found its mark, slamming into the second guard's head.

quote:
15:33, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 13 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 6,4.  Hack & slash.
15:33, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 12 using d10+2d4+1 with rolls of 5,3,3.  Damage.

Buckthorn
player, 201 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 5 XP
Sat 31 Dec 2022
at 02:27
  • msg #198

Missing Guildmate

After an initial shocked wince at the bard's spontaneous outburst, and with no concern about the well being of auto-machinations, Buck does his best through the steam and commotion to tie up one of the newly arrived guardians by drawing his rapier and ineffectively tangling with the nearest one.

Buckthorn rolled 6 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 2,3.  Hack & Slash (Rapier)
The Patchwork God
GM, 829 posts
Sat 31 Dec 2022
at 22:22
  • msg #199

Missing Guildmate

Buckthorn jumps in to attack one of the guards, only to step into the cloud of steam, burning him.  His target moves to attack him... only to be struck from behind by one of the automata, who thought Spriggy's experimental metal meant that he was also a metal man. Unfortunately, the second machine takes the noise as a sign that Spriggy needs to be fixed... with a long metallic blade.

"What!? No! Not that one, the others!" Is all the other guard has the time to say, before Gorrid slams him down.

You're still facing two Dwarven spheres and a guard, though said guard and one of the spheres are fighting one another.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 719 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Sun 1 Jan 2023
at 00:24
  • msg #200

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid turned to the sphere that was attacking Spriggy.  No point interrupting the one attacking the guard.  "I've dealt with your kind before, and you're not going to last long..."

The round automaton probably couldn't understand what he was saying, but he preferred to give fair warning to his foes before dispatching them.  He spun his sword again and slammed the pommel into the back of the sphere with a satisfying 'crunch'.

quote:
17:22, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 4,4.  Hack & slash.
17:22, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using d10+2d4+1 with rolls of 4,3,3.  Damage.

Just trying to stick to the "It goes to 11" theme :)

Buckthorn
player, 202 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 6 XP
Sun 1 Jan 2023
at 04:19
  • msg #201

Missing Guildmate

Buck screams as the fog spraying forth from the pipe sears him in the places he isn't covered by boots, cloak, or hood. He staggers away and tries to collect himself amongst the melee, briefly placing a bright red hand against a wall to brace himself.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:19, Sun 01 Jan 2023.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 487 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 2 Jan 2023
at 01:45
  • msg #202

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy nodded his thanks to Gorrid and continued his vocalizations. The sounds seemed to be helping more than they were hindering. The bard was still ready to defy danger though if Gorrid's attack wasn't enough to fully crumple the automaton that was out for Spriggy's blood.
Russel Albion
player, 146 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Mon 2 Jan 2023
at 20:04
  • msg #203

Missing Guildmate

With all the focus on Sir Gorrid, Russel took the opportunity to swap his bow for his sword and try to position himself to shove his blade into one of the Dwarven Spheres.
While he thought the steam would provide a distraction, he had hoped it would be to the opponents, not himself.
15:02, Today: Russel Albion rolled 7,1 using 1D6+3,1D6 with rolls of 4,1.  Backstab w/Bonus.
The Patchwork God
GM, 830 posts
Tue 3 Jan 2023
at 17:15
  • msg #204

Missing Guildmate

Gorrid takes aim, and stabs into the sphere's weak point, breaking the gear transmitting power through the automata, and disabling the machine.

Spriggy keeps up the distraction, leaving the other machine to fight against the last guard, and giving Russel an opening to strike.

OOC: Russel, pick your backstab bonus, and roll your damage.
Russel Albion
player, 147 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Wed 4 Jan 2023
at 18:20
  • msg #205

Missing Guildmate

Avoiding the steam leak threw Russel off a little, or maybe it was the slickness of the metal skin from the moisture sheen but, the sword dealt a glancing blow. Still, the steam did help keep the opponents away as well. Moving in and around the vapor gave some opportunity for another unexpected attack.

13:15, Today: Russel Albion rolled 2 using 1d8 with rolls of 2.  Damage.
Choose to avoid getting into melee.
The Patchwork God
GM, 831 posts
Sun 22 Jan 2023
at 16:58
  • msg #206

Missing Guildmate

The sphere doesn't seem to notice Russel's attack, still locked in combat with the human guard. You also hear some shouting coming from the west.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 720 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Sun 22 Jan 2023
at 18:26
  • msg #207

Missing Guildmate

Seeing as the sphere and guard were keeping each other occupied, Sir Gorrid decided to take advantage of the brief pause to try praying again, this time taking care to *not* trip over anything.

quote:
10:15, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,2.  Bless self.
10:18, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 10 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 4,4.  Cast magic weapon?


I'll forget the first occurrence of Bless.  Not sure if I'll have time to get off the second spell or not before something happens that requires intervention.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 488 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 23 Jan 2023
at 04:57
  • msg #208

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy kept up his singing to keep the enemies focused on each other for as long as possible. However, the shouting had caught his attention. He tried to maneuver so that he could figure out what was making the noises to the west. The steam was making his efforts more difficult, especially with sight alone, but he thought he might have still picked up a clue or two as to what it was.


23:52, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 9 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 6,2.  Discern Realities - figure out what is coming .

I will ask, "What should I be on the lookout for?"
Buckthorn
player, 203 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 6 XP
Tue 24 Jan 2023
at 09:17
  • msg #209

Missing Guildmate

Buck is seething from his brush with the hot steam but rallies to Sir Gorrid's side, alert with spear at the ready.
The Patchwork God
GM, 833 posts
Tue 24 Jan 2023
at 18:16
  • msg #210

Missing Guildmate

As machine and flesh beat one another until they both stop moving, Gorrid finishes both his prayers.

With the fight over, Spriggy is able to stop his chanting, and focus on the shouts ahead. It sounds like there's some debate in the next room on whether they should help the guards you've defeated, or if they should stay in place and use their hostage.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 721 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 20/23
Tue 24 Jan 2023
at 19:07
  • msg #211

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid keeps his sword drawn, ready to deal with any attackers, but pauses briefly to lay a hand on the halfling in the hopes of alleviating some of the man's pain.  As he prayed, the blistered skin faded back to normal, only to appear on the paladin's own face, though the holy man showed no outward signs of discomfort.

quote:
12:01, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 2,5.  Lay on Hands (Buckthorn).
12:02, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 12 using 2d8 with rolls of 7,5.  Healing.


How much were you down Buckthorn?  (It influences how much damage I end up taking :) )

GM: I get a bonus d8 of healing from Hospitalier.  Does that bonus healing *also* transfer damage to me as per the "Lay on Hands" rules?  If not, if my total healing roll is more than the damage to be healed, how is the damage allocated - base lay-on-hands first (with damage transfer), hospitalier first (with no damage transfer) or just transfer half the damage?  (And if average, rounding up or down? :>)
Russel Albion
player, 148 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 24 Jan 2023
at 19:22
  • msg #212

Missing Guildmate

Russel slips forward quietly in the steam fog and tries to hear what is being said.
Buckthorn
player, 204 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 6 XP
Wed 25 Jan 2023
at 08:33
  • msg #213

Missing Guildmate

Buck stands still as stone while the strange sensation draws away the stinging pain. "Very selfless, I cannot rightly express thanks enough." he remarks sincerely as the surprise of the moment fades. He catches a glimpse of Russel as he slips away and then Buck cocks his own head to listen as he sees Spriggy focus on the commotion ahead.

I was at 13/22 hp
The Patchwork God
GM, 834 posts
Wed 25 Jan 2023
at 16:45
  • msg #214

Missing Guildmate

It sounds like the guards have decided to... leave the decision to someone else.

OOC: According to the original author, you're supposed to take all the damage.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 722 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Wed 25 Jan 2023
at 19:36
  • msg #215

Missing Guildmate

The paladin nodded at the halfling's thanks, but was already moving towards the corridor, ready to charge ahead if his friends needed assistance.  If they were sending for someone else AND had the hostage, this was probably as good a time as any to intervene.  However, it was best to let the scouts determine the lay of the land before he engaged...

quote:
OOC: According to the original author, you're supposed to take all the damage.

Ouch :)
marked.
Buckthorn
player, 205 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 6 XP
Fri 27 Jan 2023
at 04:24
  • msg #216

Missing Guildmate

"Press ahead quickly for a possible advantage, or perhaps more prudent to see who the hostage is and strike a bloodless bargain?" Buck increases his tone as Sir Gorrid breaks to leave him behind, immediately realizing he doesn't need to await an answer.

It's an easy decision to follow the knight, and Buck trails Gorrid's heels as quickly and quietly as possible.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:34, Fri 27 Jan 2023.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 489 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 30 Jan 2023
at 03:06
  • msg #217

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy also followed Gorrid after stopping his magical vocalizations now that his foes had stopped moving. "Let's assess the situation, shall we?" he said as they carefully broke through the wall of steam. He used his buckler to block the worst parts of the steam spray. He was unsure if he should hope to see Charlotte as the hostage or not. It would be great to know she was still alive, but terrible to see her in peril.

The bard sought to see what the current situation was. Namely, how many foes were left, and who they had as a hostage. But he also looked for other threats or advantages as well.


I suppose this is another Discern Realities. I will ask:
Who’s really in control here?
What here is useful or valuable to me?
What is about to happen?

23:03, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 11 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 5,5.  Discern Realities - current situation.
The Patchwork God
GM, 835 posts
Mon 30 Jan 2023
at 16:48
  • msg #218

Missing Guildmate

The noise of the old machinery makes it hard to hear how many people are speaking, but you're pretty sure there's more than two. You don't hear anything from their hostage, so there's no clue who it is.

Looking past the door, you see a corridor turning to the north, leading to where the guards must be. You see it has the ever present tubes on the ceiling and walls, and even more tubes running under the metal grid that serves as a floor.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 723 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Mon 30 Jan 2023
at 17:12
  • msg #219

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid moved up the corridor as quietly as he could, allowing anyone who wished to scout ahead to pass him.

Let me know if you need a roll
Buckthorn
player, 206 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 6 XP
Tue 31 Jan 2023
at 01:52
  • msg #220

Missing Guildmate

"Perhaps we could put a hitch in one of these tubes to slow down any automated unpleasantness in the near future..." Buck muses aloud, speaking quietly and fairly certain the ambient noise will prevent his words from carrying too far. He slowly stalks along the corridor at Gorrid's hip.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 724 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Tue 31 Jan 2023
at 04:00
  • msg #221

Missing Guildmate

The paladin whispered back.  "Those things seem to be attracted to 'hitches'.  As we've seen, summoning them isn't necessarily a bright strategy.  Hopefully this next set of guards won't make the same mistake..."
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 490 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Sat 4 Feb 2023
at 01:06
  • msg #222

Missing Guildmate

"I'm going to try to get a closer look," Spriggy announced quietly. "I'll be as discrete as a chipmunk. Let's hope this goes better than last time..."

The bard focussed on using his shapeshifting magic and the transformations immediately began. The floor seemed to rush up at him as his body began to shrink. Fur sprouted in patches all over his body and his fingernails became tiny claws. His eyes shifted more to the sides of his head even as his pointed ears became round and shifted upward. After a couple moments he had become a chipmunk and rushed forward to sneak a peek at the situation ahead.


20:59, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 7 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 4,2.  Shapeshifter - to chipmunk.
2 Hold.
The Patchwork God
GM, 836 posts
Sat 4 Feb 2023
at 21:23
  • msg #223

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy has no trouble sneaking along the corridor, having plenty of small openings to hide into. Not that there was much need for stealth, as the guards are too far from the door to spot someone coming down the corridor, even though the door is partly opened.

Looking through the opening, you see the largest room you've yet encountered in these ruins. It reminds you of a town square, if said town was underground. It also seems the place is too big for the gear-creatures to maintain, as large boulders have fallen from the ceiling in places. There are still enough pillars to keep the ceiling in it's place, but they also add to the clutter of the place, giving plenty of places for people to take cover.

And the half-dozen guards seems quite eager to make use of that cover, hiding behind pillars and boulders, with their crossbows ready. The only person in the open is Charlotte, bound and kneeling in the middle of the room.

There seems to be multiple exits to the room, but all but two seems to be blocked by rocks.
Russel Albion
player, 149 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Sun 5 Feb 2023
at 19:49
  • msg #224

Missing Guildmate

Through Spriggy's mental connection, Russel whispers to those nearby what was described as ahead.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:49, Sun 05 Feb 2023.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 725 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Sun 5 Feb 2023
at 20:17
  • msg #225

Missing Guildmate

Normally the paladin would have advocated for charging straight in, but the healing he'd performed on Buckthorn had taken more out of him than he'd expected, so he waited to see if the others had any ideas first.

"Whatever we do, best it be quick before more reinforcements arrive."
Buckthorn
player, 207 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 6 XP
Mon 6 Feb 2023
at 02:26
  • msg #226

Missing Guildmate

"I'm not keen on running a gauntlet of flying bolts, perhaps a more subtle approach to make use of the cover?" Buck looks to Russel for any suggestions or to lead a stealthy path forward.
Russel Albion
player, 150 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Mon 6 Feb 2023
at 18:36
  • msg #227

Missing Guildmate

I think I can slip between the stones and columns without being seen but I'm not sure if all of us can. If we all moved together I'm sure we will be spotted.

If someone hung back but drew attention to themselves, a few of us could get into good positions to surprise them. It would be even better if the steam was there as well.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 726 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Mon 6 Feb 2023
at 18:58
  • msg #228

Missing Guildmate

"I'm happy to be a distraction.  The most important thing is to make sure Charlotte is safe.  Beyond that, any guards you can dispatch would be most welcome."

Does anyone have a healing potion?
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 492 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 6 Feb 2023
at 19:40
  • msg #229

Missing Guildmate

I have two healing potions, as well as a few other healing items. Unfortunately they are currently part of my chipmunk form. I can use them on you when I change back though.

GM, is Spriggy able to cast spells as a squirrel?
Buckthorn
player, 208 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 6 XP
Tue 7 Feb 2023
at 02:47
  • msg #230

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid of Torr:
"I'm happy to be a distraction.  The most important thing is to make sure Charlotte is safe.  Beyond that, any guards you can dispatch would be most welcome."


"I think you'd best advance and fight with the others, with any ground and advantage we can gain. I'll hold their attention." Buck speaks with an unusual confidence and looks Gorrid in the eye with sincerity.

Without waiting for a response he whirls his fur cloak about himself and sets off in a hurried crouch for the nearest shadow of cover, disappearing from view.


18:41, Today: Buckthorn rolled 5 using 2d6+2
This message was last edited by the player at 02:48, Tue 07 Feb 2023.
The Patchwork God
GM, 837 posts
Tue 7 Feb 2023
at 15:35
  • msg #231

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy briefly spots a small form fly above him, too small for anyone else to spot. Then...

"Who are you?"

The guard look around in confusion at the call echoing through the room.

"We've already claimed that part of the ruins."

"Is that Manau?" One of the guards ask.

"Damn it, it's them!"

"Where is that coming from!?"

Charlotte looks around, as confused as the guards, before saying "Maybe it's his ghost!"

"Shut up..."

"I've heard of it happening in other dwarven ruins," she continues. "Some of their traps are so good, they can trap a person's soul..."

"I said shut up!"

One of the guard steps menacingly toward Charlotte, as the strange voice continues to echo through the room. "If you want loot, you'll have to look elsewhere."


OOC: You'd need a human-like voice and hand to cast wizard spells, so that's not an option when you're a squirrel.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 727 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Tue 7 Feb 2023
at 17:01
  • msg #232

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid wasn't completely sure how Buckthorn was managing to reproduce the voices of the guards from the previous encounter, but it certainly seemed to be an effective distraction.  Best to take advantage of it.

The knight moved into the room, keeping his shield up and prepared to take a few crossbow bolts as he angled to position himself to attack the first guard, gesturing at them with his sword.  "You're about to wish you'd been the errand runner..."

quote:
09:56, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 8 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,1.  Defend self.
09:58, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 9 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 2,3.  Hack & slash.
09:59, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 16 using d10+4d4+1 with rolls of 7,1,2,4,1.  Damage.

2 hold

Not sure if I can get in the attack, but figured I'd roll it in case
Russel Albion
player, 151 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 7 Feb 2023
at 18:50
  • msg #233

Missing Guildmate

As the talking was over and the action begun, Russel slipped from pillar to stone to pillar.
His path took him as close to behind one the guards around Charlotte as cover allowed.
Buckthorn
player, 209 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 7 XP
Wed 8 Feb 2023
at 03:56
  • msg #234

Missing Guildmate

Buck does little more than note the advance of the old knight and spry rogue, as he has become preoccupied.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 493 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Thu 9 Feb 2023
at 03:45
  • msg #235

Missing Guildmate

As it appeared the action had begun, chipmunk-Spriggy ran toward one of the people threatening to shoot Collette. There was little he could do in his current form, so he ran up a wall, leapt for their head, then returned to his normal form. A transforming ball of elven chipmunk crashed into one of the guards haphazardly. "I got this one!" he yelled once his mouth had reformed enough.


Expending all my hold to become an elf again. Hopefully on top of one of the guards to knock them down. This seems like it will require a Defy Danger, so I rolled one and got an 11! Even with my dump stat that is a 10+ !

23:43, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 11 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,5.  Defy Danger (untyped), knock down guard.
The Patchwork God
GM, 838 posts
Thu 9 Feb 2023
at 18:05
  • msg #236

Missing Guildmate

The guard's confusion gets even worse as Gorrid charges through the door, leaving only two of them to fire at the paladin. The others are too distracted by the elf suddenly appearing in the middle of the room, causing the one threatening Charlotte to fall on his ass.

As Russel sneaks from cover to cover, drawing near one of the guards behind a pillar, he spots a strangely out-of-place bird swooping down to peck at the guard's meal.

OOC: The guards' bolt deal a grand total of 2 damage to Gorrid, before armor. I have a feeling the greatest source of damage you'll take in this adventure is your own healing.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 728 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Thu 9 Feb 2023
at 19:42
  • msg #237

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid advanced on the first guard, his steel finding a way through the man's armor with a sickening squelch.

As he pulled his blade free, he looked at the next closest guard.  "If you wanted to run away, this would be a good time..."


quote:
I have a feeling the greatest source of damage you'll take in this adventure is your own healing.

:D

My next action is to follow through with the previously rolled attack.  If I can, I'll position myself nearer to Charlotte if I can, but primary focus is dropping the numbers.  Can I still use hold from my defense roll if I'm attacking?

Spriggy Glompgut
player, 494 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 13 Feb 2023
at 02:27
  • msg #238

Missing Guildmate

"Hello, Charlotte! Imagine seeing you here." With the target of his transformation momentarily knocked down, Spriggy wasted no time rolling to his feet and casting a spell upon their friend. It was one he knew she should recognize as an adept. "Maiden mighty, mind so bright. Take this veil and fade from sight!" He trusted she would know to seek safety once the invisibility spell was cast upon her. He also trusted she would know the spell might not last long while they were currently locked into combat.

Unfortunately, "locked in combat" was a terrible place to attempt casting spells...


Casting Invisibility on Charlotte. That is a failure. +1 XP!
22:23, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 6 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 2,1.  Cast Invisibility on Charlotte.
The Patchwork God
GM, 839 posts
Tue 14 Feb 2023
at 18:11
  • msg #239

Missing Guildmate

Gorrid takes down the closest guard, only for two more to take his place, drawing their swords to strike the paladin. They strike true, yet their blows can't seem to get through his armor, even as he moves closer to defend Charlotte.

As Spriggy tries to cast, the fallen guard kicks the elf's legs, sending him to the floor. "Help me gag him!" the guard shouts, jumping on Spriggy to pin him. A second guard moves to help him, only to be tripped by Charlotte, who makes the most of her limited movements.

The two remaining guards hesitate between taking a pot shot at one of the adventurers stuck in combat, or continuing to aim at the door for any reinforcement coming, not realizing said reinforcement is making his way to their side.
Russel Albion
player, 153 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 14 Feb 2023
at 18:39
  • msg #240

Missing Guildmate

With the closest guard with a crossbow focused on trying to get a clear shot, Russel took the opportunity to try and ruin his aim by shoving a dagger into him.

13:36, Today: Russel Albion rolled 3,5 using 1D6,1D6+3 with rolls of 3,2.  Backstab w/Bonus.
13:38, Today: Russel Albion rolled 8 using 1d8 with rolls of 8.  Damage.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 729 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Tue 14 Feb 2023
at 19:31
  • msg #241

Missing Guildmate

"I gave both of you a choice"  Sir Gorrid pointed to one of the two men.  "For you, it's the last you get to make.  Your partner looks slightly smarter, so maybe he'll still run away."

With that, he swung his longsword at the man's neck, taking care to step clear of any resulting spray.

quote:
12:29, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 5,2.  Hack & slash.
12:29, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 21 using d10+3d4+1 with rolls of 10,3,4,3.  Damage.

Buckthorn
player, 210 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 7 XP
Fri 17 Feb 2023
at 02:32
  • msg #242

Missing Guildmate

Having quickly eaten its fill of bread, the wren takes stock of the commotion.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 730 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Fri 17 Feb 2023
at 03:59
  • msg #243

Missing Guildmate

I'm not sure it's quite dawned on Sir Gorrid yet that Buckthorn hasn't shown himself.  He was just impressed with your ability to create the distraction :>
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 495 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Fri 17 Feb 2023
at 18:16
  • msg #244

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy did not appreciate being leg-swept and tackled. "You really want to tangle with this guy?" he asked. Spriggy was not a skilled wrestler though, so he called on some animal assistance to help remove the person trying to pin and gag him. The bard's skin hardened and swelled like an inflated waterskin even as an extra set of legs burst from his chest. With a primeval roar, the big-bad-beetle-bard tossed his assailant from his back.

Spriggy then moved to place his bulk between Charlotte and the other enemies so that she might safely free herself from any bonds that might be holding her.


Trying to shapeshift into my big beetle form.
12:57, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 9 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 2,6.  Shapeshifter - to Man-sized Rhino Beetle.
2 Hold.

I will use one Hold right away to use the move Toss a Foe Away. 1 Hold remaining.
The Patchwork God
GM, 841 posts
Sat 18 Feb 2023
at 22:10
  • msg #245

Missing Guildmate

Russel quickly takes down one of the guards, as does Gorrid. The guard on top of Spriggy give a confused shout that turns into a scared yell as he flies into the air. The guard that Charlotte tripped gets back on his feet, only to see the alien head of a giant beetle.

The remaining guard turns to aim his crossbow at Spriggy, only to be distracted by a bird aggressively pecking at his shiny helm. After a few passes, the guard manages to swat away the bird, who turn back into a confused Buckthorn.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 731 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Sat 18 Feb 2023
at 22:26
  • msg #246

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid watched for a moment to see if the second guard would avail himself of the opportunity to run.  When he didn't, the knight advanced.  "I did give you a chance.  I'm sorry for the sake of your loved ones you didn't take it."  Then his sword swung again.

quote:
15:25, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 4,3.  Hack & slash.
15:26, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using d10+3d4+1 with rolls of 5,1,1,3.

Buckthorn
player, 211 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 7 XP
Sun 19 Feb 2023
at 06:53
  • msg #247

Missing Guildmate

Buck clatters to the ground in a heap, reflexively rolling into a crouched position, facing the crossbowman at an odd angle. He knows as long as he is a threat that the guard can't freely engage in the rest of the melee.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 496 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Wed 22 Feb 2023
at 19:04
  • msg #248

Missing Guildmate

With his compound eyes, Spriggy could see hundreds of slightly different versions of the guard Charlotte had tripped staring at his big buggy head. The bard's next choice of action was obvious. He planted his feet, snorted,  and launched into a short-range charge and pushed the guard backward using his big-bug bulk as leverage. However, Spriggy could feel the exertion of the effort weakening the link to his current form. Shortly after he had finished his charge, Spriggy had returned to his normal elven form. "Hope you learned your lesson!" he taunted the (hopefully crumpled) guard he had just charged.


Using my last Hold to use the move "Charge a foe."
The Patchwork God
GM, 842 posts
Thu 23 Feb 2023
at 18:28
  • msg #249

Missing Guildmate

The last guard doesn't even notice Buckthorn as looks for a target. Instead, he sees his last standing ally get bowled over by a giant insect, while the armored warrior who slaughtered three of his companions turns his attention toward him.

Even with the insect vanishing, the guard decides the best thing to do is to drop his crossbow, and runs for the door to the west. "Boss! Help! Boss!" He bangs on the solid metal door, but to no avail.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 732 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Thu 23 Feb 2023
at 18:43
  • msg #250

Missing Guildmate

So situation is 4 guards down, one prone after being knocked over, and one trying to escape?

The paladin held forth his sword, still dripping blood and his voice boomed in the large space.

"I don't think your boss much cares for your life.  If he did, he wouldn't have left you and your compatriots here.  Surrender now avail yourselves of the opportunity to atone for your misdeeds before your are called to face Gianam's sword of justice."

quote:
11:41, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 9 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 4,4.  I am the Law.


On a 7+, they choose to: Do what you say; Back away cautiously, then flee; or Attack youh

The Patchwork God
GM, 843 posts
Fri 24 Feb 2023
at 17:44
  • msg #251

Missing Guildmate

The guard looks back at you, looking pale. "Okay! Okay!" He tosses away his sword and hold up his hands. "I didn't know we were kidnapping a guilder! I swear!"

OOC: It's actually six guards down. You took down three (including the 7th guard that you saw in the previous room), Russel one, and Spriggy two.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 733 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Fri 24 Feb 2023
at 17:54
  • msg #252

Missing Guildmate

The paladin wiped his sword off on one of the bodies but kept it unsheathed for now.  "What's on the other side of that door?"  He assumed that someone with nimbler fingers would take care of removing Charlotte's bindings and he wanted his sword ready in case anything came through those doors...
Russel Albion
player, 154 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 24 Feb 2023
at 18:21
  • msg #253

Missing Guildmate

Russel untied Charlotte while keeping a sharp eye on the door and the rest of the room.
Even checked the ceiling for crawly things.
Buckthorn
player, 212 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Sat 25 Feb 2023
at 08:35
  • msg #254

Missing Guildmate

Coming to Russel's assistance of the girl, Buck checks the freed captive for injuries. In the event a bandage or poultice is required he wants to begin immediately before the the hefty door yields any hefty surprises.
The Patchwork God
GM, 844 posts
Sun 26 Feb 2023
at 18:21
  • msg #255

Missing Guildmate

"A-an o'quarry, or something... I don't know what that is, the boss wouldn't let us get closer than the entrance."

"It's 'Oculory'," Charlotte points out, as Russel frees her. Despite being held prisoner, it doesn't seems she had any worse wound than some chaffing from the rope. "It's an ancient dwarven construction they used for research, according to the texts Tiariai found. Unfortunately, the texts were incomplete, so I'm not sure exactly what it does.
I do know he needs my help to activate it. And a crystal, but he's been working on making one since we got here."
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 734 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 11/23
Sun 26 Feb 2023
at 20:27
  • msg #256

Missing Guildmate

"Are you positive he needs your help?  If so, getting you out of here to a more defensible position is our best move...

How many forces does he have remaining?"

As he spoke, the knight surveyed the room, trying to determine if there were any near-term threats.

quote:
13:26, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 9 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 4,2.  Discern realities.

What should I be on the lookout for?
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 498 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 27 Feb 2023
at 01:06
  • msg #257

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy had a lot of questions of his own to ask, but for the moment he felt his voice could be better used for something else. As the others spoke, Spriggy began chanting a quiet tune of healing to help mend some of Gorrid's plethora of injuries. Ironically, the warrior did not seem to have contracted any of them from the most recent scuffle despite being in the thick of melee.

Despite his magic working, the distraction of the conversation made it difficult to narrow the focus of his magic solely on Gorrid. That, and he had begun passing out bandages to anyone who needed them too, as he sang.


Using my Arcane Art on Gorrid, choosing to heal him 1d8 damage and "the next time someone successfully assists the Gorrid with aid, Gorrid gets +2 instead of +1."
20:59, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 8 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 3,3.  Arcane Art: heal/boost Gorrid.

-On a 7-9, your spell still works, but you draw unwanted attention or your magic reverberates to other targets affecting them as well, GM’s choice.

21:03, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 4 using 1d8 with rolls of 4.  Heal Gorrid.
Gorrid heals 4 HP.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 736 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 15/23
Mon 27 Feb 2023
at 04:12
  • msg #258

Missing Guildmate

Thanks :)
The Patchwork God
GM, 845 posts
Wed 1 Mar 2023
at 18:51
  • msg #259

Missing Guildmate

Charlotte thinks for a moment, counting the group's size in her mind. "He's got... two assistants left. They don't really look like combatant, but I didn't actually see them fight. As for activating the Oculory, yeah, he'll need my help. Assuming he manages to get a working crystal, he'll still need me to translate the celestial coordinate to adjust the machine..."

As she explains that, you feel a tremor through the floor, as the machinery seems to speed up.

"...Unless he just tries to brute force it?" Charlotte adds, unsure.

Looking at the machinery in the room, Gorrid feels confident that it's solid enough to handle the increase in pressure, although some more damaged pipes may crack. That risks riling up more of the automatons. After questioning Charlotte a bit more, it seems the room where the Oculory lies has no other exits, beside possibly the android's tubes.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 737 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 15/23
Wed 1 Mar 2023
at 20:44
  • msg #260

Missing Guildmate

There were two clear possible courses of action.  Escort Charlotte our of the complex, get her safely home, and leave their quary to bring the building, the spiders, or whatever else fate decreed down on his head.  Alternatively, they could try to stop what was happening.  As he always did in the face of uncertainty, Sir Gorrid offered a brief prayer of petition, seeking guidance.

quote:
13:43, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 13 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 6,4.  Cast guidance.

Hoping for an indication of one direction (closed doors) or the other (back the way we came)

Buckthorn
player, 214 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Thu 2 Mar 2023
at 07:55
  • msg #261

Missing Guildmate

As Sir Gorrid turns his attention to prayer and the others worriedly contemplate the tremor and unknown machinations the beyond the doors, Buck slows his breathing and kneels at the base of a stone column. With one one palm against the pillar and one palm in the fine dust of the floor he draws a long and steady deep breath, shrinking inside of his croc hide armor and furrowing his cloak about him. He blanks out his mind and listens, beyond the sounds of those present.

Buckthorn rolled 12 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,5.  Communion Of Whispers
Russel Albion
player, 155 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Thu 2 Mar 2023
at 18:21
  • msg #262

Missing Guildmate

Russel asked the others, "Now that we have rescued Charlotte, shouldn't we be getting her out of here before a swarm of those metal spiders show up?"

"That's assuming our way out is still clear."
The Patchwork God
GM, 846 posts
Fri 3 Mar 2023
at 19:42
  • msg #263

Missing Guildmate

It takes a moment for either Buckthorn or Gorrid to reply to Russel's suggestion, as they focus on forces beyond the keen of ordinary mortals...
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 738 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 15/23
Fri 3 Mar 2023
at 20:05
  • msg #264

Missing Guildmate

"I think Gianam wants us to get Charlotte out of here, but also keep whatever's behind those doors from getting back out..."

The paladin took a quick scan of the room to see if there was anything that could be used to quickly help bar the doors from the party's side.

quote:
13:05, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 8 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 4,1.  Discern realities.

What here is useful to me?
Buckthorn
player, 215 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Sat 4 Mar 2023
at 02:07
  • msg #265

Missing Guildmate

Buck coughs once and stands up, rejoining the others nearby.

"The feel of this place has changed, even just since we've set upon it. A great deal of pressure..." he subtly clears his throat and corrects himself, "...a disastrous amount of pressure is rapidly building somewhere within. Perhaps an observatory?" he looks to Charlotte as if she may be able to comment on the mention of such a room.

Before she can respond he blurts out to add "The heart of the complex, a mountain spirit of sorts, appears to be alerting automata to the pending catastrophe. Pressure release disabled?" his voice takes on an unsure and questioning tone and he looks to the stone floor to gather more thoughts, "Maintenance to observatory. Time to danger 536 tick..." Buck trails off and shakes his head abruptly as if to jumble the words inside him into making sense.

He looks up once again, his eyes taking a moment to focus among friends.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 500 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Sat 4 Mar 2023
at 03:10
  • msg #266

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy paced near the others, mumbling quietly to himself. "Oculory. Oculory. Hm." The word felt familiar, but he couldn't quite place why. He knew he knew something about it, but he was having trouble drawing forth the correct memory. At least, that was the case until Buckthorn mentioned a mountain spirit and a pending catastrophe. Then suddenly an old nearly-forgotten tale flooded back into his mind.

"I know a bit about what is here, I think," Spriggy finally said to the others. "It is an old memory. But I think it goes without saying that it would be best to ensure this mountain doesn't blow up while we are still in it, and I doubt we have time to evacuate. I think we should go in and deal with the situation directly." The bard then recounted what legends he knew of this oculory as quickly and succinctly as he could manage.


Spouting Lore about this particular oculory.
23:02, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 11 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 2,6.  Spout Lore - the oculory near by.
The Patchwork God
GM, 847 posts
Sun 5 Mar 2023
at 18:24
  • msg #267

Missing Guildmate

You recall hearing about something like that from a diviner you studied with for a time. He used to speak with envy of the Oculory in the Shamad empire. It was a gift from the dwarves, offered when the empire was first founded. He said it used a steam contraption to capture celestial light, even underground, and used it as a powerful tool to locate various things.

As you feel another rumble, Gorrid notices dust falling from the ceiling. Perhaps this room isn't as solid as the smaller chambers you've crossed.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 739 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 15/23
Mon 6 Mar 2023
at 16:05
  • msg #268

Missing Guildmate

"Russel, can you get us through those doors?  If not, we'd better make a run for it..."
Russel Albion
player, 156 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Mon 6 Mar 2023
at 19:15
  • msg #269

Missing Guildmate

Russel moves up to the doors and determines if they can just be opened or if they are held shut in some fashion, after quickly listening at the crack.
The Patchwork God
GM, 848 posts
Tue 7 Mar 2023
at 15:54
  • msg #270

Missing Guildmate

The lock looks pretty complex. You could probably pick it open... eventually. The question is, do you have the time to do so?
Russel Albion
player, 157 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 7 Mar 2023
at 18:42
  • msg #271

Missing Guildmate

The moisture content in the area had not been good for the lock mechanism. Muttering under his breath, Russel scrapped and twisted his picks to get the lock parts to move the way he needed them to.
"There!" he exclaimed as he stepped back. "That was a tricky one. The touch of rust didn't help but, I got it unlocked."
"Someone want to slip in or should we rush?"

13:32, Today: Russel Albion rolled 3,4 using 1D6,1D6+3 with rolls of 3,1.  Defy Danger (DEX).
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 740 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 15/23
Tue 7 Mar 2023
at 20:59
  • msg #272

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid nodded briefly to the thief in thanks, but answered the question by throwing open the door and charging in, his sword extended.  "No time!  We stop him now, or we all die!"

His eyes scanned the room beyond, trying to figure out the most expeditious way to stop whatever was happening *before* calamity struck.

quote:
13:57, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 10 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 3,4.  Discern realities.


Who's really in control here? (or more specifically, 'what' - what's making stuff happen?)
What should I be on the lookout for?
What here is useful or valuable to me? (in terms of disabling this contraption)
Buckthorn
player, 216 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Wed 8 Mar 2023
at 21:53
  • msg #273

Missing Guildmate

With things rushing into action at the pick of the lock, Buck takes a look back at Charlotte and shrugs half in sympathy and half in apology. He thinks about tossing her his hunting knife but instead puts a boot to one of the fallen guards' swords, kicking it to her feet along the chamber's stone floor. "I beg of you, please stay safe!" his voice carries a dire urgency and sincerity knowing there is no time to elaborate, trusting their charge can take care of herself and hoping above all that she will stay safely out of the way.

He turns on a heel and rushes toward the large doorway to back up Sir Gorrid.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 501 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Thu 9 Mar 2023
at 03:56
  • msg #274

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy agreed that there was probably not enough time for sneaking and rushed in after Gorrid and Buckthorn. Loud enough so that their adversary could hear, the bard yelled, "Sir Tiariai! I suggest you halt what you are doing at once! Operating this oculory without the proper precautions is liable to get us all killed. Yourself included!"


I don't believe I have the proper leverage for a parley roll, but I would like to use my elf move as we enter the room.
quote:
Elf
When you enter an important location (your call) you can ask the GM for one fact from the history of that location.

Also, if the oculory is an item that fits within my Bardic Lore (spells and magicks), then I would also like to ask, "How can the oculory be deactivated?"
The Patchwork God
GM, 849 posts
Thu 9 Mar 2023
at 16:27
  • msg #275

Missing Guildmate

You rush through the door, as a sudden tremor causes stones to fall from the ceiling, blocking the passage behind you. You only pause long enough for Charlotte to confirm she's alright, although stuck outside.

Running down a small corridor, you finally see the Oculory. It's a massive brass sphere, taking most of the room, with a stair case circling part of it to reach an upper balcony. Steam pipes connected at the base seem to change color from the heat, as a few jets of over-heated fluids whistles in place. Above you, you can see a delicate spider-like apparatus rotating, catching beams of lights from crystals in the walls, and trying to focus it on the sphere. But as you watch, it's clear they're not succeeding. The beam seems to bounce off the sphere at weird angles, causing rainbow spots to light the walls.

On the upper balcony, you can see Tiariai, working some form of old controls. When his two assistants point out your presence, he looks down, only to scowl as he realizes Charlotte isn't with you. "Keep them busy, I need to deal with this..." he says, continuing his attempt at adjusting the apparatus.

You're not sure how this things can be shut down, but it looks like the longer the light remains unfocused, the more the sphere heats up, and the more things shake and leak...
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 741 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 15/23
Thu 9 Mar 2023
at 19:00
  • msg #276

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid continued his charge heading straight up the stairs, sword and shield before him prepared to impale or shove aside anyone who got in his way.  As he ran, he called out.  "In the name of Gianam, shut down this device and stand aside!!  If you cooperate, we might assist.  If you refuse, you will surely die.  The information you might hope to glean will be useless if none are alive to make use of it!"  Despite his advanced age and the fact he was running up a flight of stairs, his voice was clear and strong.


quote:
11:58, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,2.  I am the law.

An aid could turn that into a 10 if anyone's willing. :)
Buckthorn
player, 217 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Thu 9 Mar 2023
at 22:48
  • msg #277

Missing Guildmate

"Heed his words or join your defeated brethren, put aside your swords!" Buck yelled up at the men, lending credence to the old knight's words, imploring them to cooperate. He takes up at a run, giving chase up the stairs.

Buckthorn rolled 10 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 4,5. Aid Sir Gorrid (+1 Bond)
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 502 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Fri 10 Mar 2023
at 03:33
  • msg #278

Missing Guildmate

Having already said what he wanted to say, Spriggy instead focused his voice on assisting Gorrid in other ways. He began a fast-paced melody of vitalization to support the man's charge in more way than one. "The thunder rumbles, feet fall fast. Our story brings us here at last. Do not falter, do not shirk. Continue on, defeat this jerk!"

Even as he sang though, Spriggy rushed forward too so that he might help to help shut down the oculory once their adversaries were taken care of one way or another.


Using my Arcane Arts to heal Gorrid and boost his attack.

23:20, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 3,4.  Arcane Art - Heal Gorrid and boost his damage.

It works, but... "you draw unwanted attention or your magic reverberates to
other targets affecting them as well, GM’s choice." Hopefully it reverberates to "heal" the oculory. :-P

Gorrid, heals 8 damage and gets +1d4 forward to damage.

23:22, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 8 using 1d8 with rolls of 8.  Heal Gorrid.
Russel Albion
player, 158 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 10 Mar 2023
at 18:36
  • msg #279

Missing Guildmate

Having experience with contraption, though usually in the form of locks or traps, Russel examines the Oculory for any valves or levers that could restrict or shutoff its power.
The Patchwork God
GM, 850 posts
Sat 11 Mar 2023
at 18:38
  • msg #280

Missing Guildmate

The two assistant look at Gorrid and Buckthorn, hesitating for a moment, before turning toward their boss, begging him to listen to your demands and stop the machine. Snarling, Tiariai slams his fist on the controls, causing one of the arms to spin wildly, sweeping across the stairs and slamming into Gorrid.

Spriggy's music aided in soothing the paladin's wounds, but the music seems to resonate with the machine, making it move faster. Dangerously so, as far as Russel can see. Perhaps if there was less steam pressure, the thing would slow down?
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 742 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sat 11 Mar 2023
at 19:19
  • msg #281

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid angled his shield to deflect the arm, then finished his charge up the stairs, pointing his sword squarely at Tiariai.  "You had the chance to listen to reason, now it's time for justice!".  As soon as he reached the man, he swung at his head, tilting his blade to hit with the flat side.  "DO YOU YIELD?!"  His voice was a growl as he raised his sword for another blow.

quote:
12:16, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 8 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 2,2.  Hack & slash - stun.
12:16, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 13 using d10+3d4+1 with rolls of 2,3,3,4.  Damage.

Buckthorn
player, 218 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Sat 11 Mar 2023
at 21:19
  • msg #282

Missing Guildmate

When the guards turned to plead with Tiariai, Buck halted his charge up the stairs after the big knight to the control platform. He instead turned his attention to the myriad pipes and steam works. He had little idea what he was looking for, a druid in an underground tomb of machinery, but he knew steam needed a source, had to move through pipes, and that surely dwarfs would have accounted for some way to avert the climaxing catastrophe taking place.

Buck yelled down to Spriggy and Russel as his eyes swept the cavernous space "We need to end this monstrous contraption! Find instructions, a weak point, anything!"

Buckthorn rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 6,1.  Discern Realities (Oculory) What here is useful or valuable to me?
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 503 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 13 Mar 2023
at 17:07
  • msg #283

Missing Guildmate

"Right," replied Spriggy to Buckthorn. It seemed Gorrid could probably handle Tiariai on his own now, so Spriggy began frantically searching for any sort of clue as to how to operate this thing. But then he realized he might have a spell that could help. He just hoped casting it wouldn't accelerate things, like his singing had.

"This place uses celestial light. So let's see if I can tap into that power to contact one of the dwarf spirits that built this contraption." Spriggy began casting his Contact Spirits spell to try and summon the spirit of the oculary's head engineer. He wanted to ask how they could shut it down quickly without dying in the process.


Casting Contact Spirits.
quote:
Contact Spirits
Level 1 Summoning

Name the spirit you wish to contact (or leave it to the GM). You pull that creature through the planes, just close enough to speak to you. It is bound to answer any one question you ask to the best of its ability.

13:04, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 8 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 2,3.  Cast a Spell: Contact Spirits.

It seems thematic that I choose the drawback, "The spell disturbs the fabric of reality as it is cast—take -1 ongoing to cast a spell until the next time you Prepare Spells."

The Patchwork God
GM, 851 posts
Tue 14 Mar 2023
at 19:58
  • msg #284

Missing Guildmate

The noble collapse to the ground under Gorrid's blow, pulling a lever as he falls. The sphere shakes violently, causing jets of steam to shoot off in random directions. You're forced to dodge the burning streams, but at least it seems to calm things down, for a moment...

Spriggy feels something answer... but he realizes it's not a dwarf's spirits that answers. It's... artificial. Mechanical. Likely the same spirit Buckthorn found. It's voice seems to echo from every tubes surrounding you, turning the rattling of pressure into a cacophony of flat words. "Oculory misaligned. Requires more pressure for adjustment. Warning, pressure exceeding safe operating limits. Warning, safety valves non-functional. Pressure will increase until correcte alignment of the Oculory."

Unfortunately, Buckthorn can't see much in terms of instructions in the room. Other than a metal plate Tiariai dropped, as he got knocked out. It seems covered in dwarven text, but what it says is a mystery to you.

OOC: Everyone needs to make a Defy Danger (DEX) check to avoid getting steamed.
Russel Albion
player, 159 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 14 Mar 2023
at 20:34
  • msg #285

Missing Guildmate

On the move as he was, in search of any controls for the steam, Russel managed to not be at the wrong place at the wrong time. Moving just at the edge of random steam billows.

16:30, Today: Russel Albion rolled 4,8 using 1D6,1D6+3 with rolls of 4,5.  Defy Danger (DEX).
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 743 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 15 Mar 2023
at 02:39
  • msg #286

Missing Guildmate

@Russel, that looks like a 12 by my math - you should be fine, I think?

Moving nimbly was not exactly the knight's forte, so some might say that it was more luck than skill that allowed Sir Gorrid to avoid the super-heated blasts.  He'd learned long ago that luck was always an important part of the equation and he'd take the good when he could get it.

The paladin verified that the noble was genuinely down for the count before looking at the two assistants.

"I don't suppose either of you know how to turn this thing off?"

quote:
20:32, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 10 using 2d6 with rolls of 4,6.  Defy danger - Dex.

My worst stat, but so long as my blessing is still up, that's a 10...  If not, can I use the +1 from my earlier discern?

Question - how bad was the rock-fall between us and Charlotte?  Is there any chance of it being cleared?  Can we communicate with her?  (I'm assuming yes as we were able to verify she was ok?)
Buckthorn
player, 219 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Wed 15 Mar 2023
at 09:06
  • msg #287

Missing Guildmate

Buck kicked the Dwarfen metal plate in Spriggy's direction, out of ideas, and addressed the remaining noble's assistants alongside Sir Gorrid. He flinched as several gouts of steam spouted nearby, still aching from his previous scalding.

Buckthorn rolled 9 using 2d6+1, Defy Danger
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 504 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Wed 15 Mar 2023
at 20:06
  • msg #288

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy didn't know exactly what the mechanical spirit meant with what it said, but had a good enough guess. They were in danger unless the oculory could be properly aligned. "We need to align the oculory! Its safety features are non functional and it is becoming more dangerous by the second!"

When Buckthorn kicked the plate his way, Spriggy did his best to run over and grab it without getting a face full of steam in the process. He was at least partially successful in that endeavor. He hoped the plate would hold some clues as to what they should do to align the oculory. He examined its surface for clues and yelled out any useful information he could manage to see.


15:49, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 8 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,2.  Defy Danger + Dex, avoiding steam.

Is the plate an item covered by my Bardic Lore? If so, I would like to ask, "What instruction can this thing give in relation to the oculory?"

Regardless, here is a Spout Lite for the plate:
16:03, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 10 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 5,2.  Spout Lore - plate.
The Patchwork God
GM, 852 posts
Thu 16 Mar 2023
at 15:26
  • msg #289

Missing Guildmate

You manage to avoid the steam, barely in some cases. One of the assistant isn't so lucky, scalding his hands, and distracting both of them from Gorrid's question.

The rock fall is bad enough that a person can't pass through, but something smaller could. You could probably clear enough of a passage to exit, though you're not sure how long that would take...
OOC: It would take a Defy Danger (STR) to open a passage enough for someone to get through.

Alas, the plate is in an ancient dwarven language, one that Spriggy can't really decipher. You do manage to find an engraving depicting the Oculory's controls, but it would take an expert to translate how to use them correctly.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 744 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Thu 16 Mar 2023
at 20:46
  • msg #290

Missing Guildmate

Deciding that the controls were best deciphered by someone who had some idea how to work mechanical contraptions, Sir Gorrid decided that he would devote his focus to getting their resident 'expert' through to where she could be most helpful.  He started moving boulders out of the way, trying to clear a path large enough for Charlotte to wiggle through.

"Charlotte, I think we need you on this side.  If you can provide any advice while I make this hole big enough for you to crawl through, that'd be great..."

quote:
14:45, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 12 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 5,3.  Defy danger - Str.

Spriggy Glompgut
player, 505 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Fri 17 Mar 2023
at 02:13
  • msg #291

Missing Guildmate

Seeing what Gorrid was up to, Spriggy realized that the expert they needed might actually be available after all. Charlotte! He rushed the plate over to her so that he could hand it off to the adept for translation. On his way, he called to the others, "See if you can get any of the safety valves functional again!" He wasn't exactly sure what it meant, but the mechanical spirit he had spoken to mentioned it. "And Russel, if Charlotte has any useful insights about operating the oculory from translating this plate, I will send them to you with Telepathy." He was so glad they had made that magical link so long ago. It was proving to be very useful.

While Gorrid moved rocks out of Charlotte's way, Spriggy wanted to get the plate to her as soon as possible. And so he transformed into a chipmunk as he rushed toward the cave in. That way he could hand Charlotte the plate and she could begin translating it even while being excavated. Hopefully there was enough room for him to transform back again after getting past the rubble.


Shapeshifting to chipmunk to get to Charlotte. He will change back right away once he gets through the rubble so that he can hand her the plate.
22:10, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 2,5.  Shapeshifter - to chipmunk.
Russel Albion
player, 161 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 17 Mar 2023
at 12:25
  • msg #292

Missing Guildmate

Russel increased his urgency in searching for any controls or safety valves while "listening" for anything Spriggy might "say".
Buckthorn
player, 220 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Sat 18 Mar 2023
at 06:47
  • msg #293

Missing Guildmate

Perplexed by both the lack of direction and the complexity and mechanics of his unnatural surroundings, Buck stands uncomfortably at the control panel on the increasingly steam soaked platform. He can at least  remain ready to execute any advice that might be relayed from the others, or perish farther below ground than he ever imagined he would be in his life. He mumbles something about the odds of the situation to himself before clenching his jaw and staring at the mess of knobs, dials and levers at his disposal.
The Patchwork God
GM, 854 posts
Sat 18 Mar 2023
at 19:47
  • msg #294

Missing Guildmate

As Gorrid opens a path wide enough for a person to squeeze through, Spriggy joins Charlotte to hand her the plate. "Okay, right..." She runs her fingers on plate, mumbling the words under her breath."These are the focus for the celestial lights... and they should be... Okay, okay, I think I could adjust it..."

She passes through the opening Gorrid made, racing into the Oculory's room, only for a quake to cause the stairs to collapse. "Oh great... Buckthorn? Do you think you can follow the instructions I give you?" Charlotte shouts.

Meanwhile, Russel spreads out his search, heading into the corridor for something to help. There's little in the way of controls, but there does seem to be a few valves to deviate the flow of steam elsewhere. The question is... where is it safe to send?

OOC: We'll need some Defy Danger (INT) to deal with that machine, unless you can come up with a good alternative idea.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 745 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sat 18 Mar 2023
at 21:44
  • msg #295

Missing Guildmate

Not terribly good at figuring out controls, the knight positioned himself close to Charlotte, ready to defend her from steam, falling rocks, or whatever other joyous surprises the dwarven room had to offer up.

quote:
15:43, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 11 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 4,5.  Defend Charlotte.

Hold 3
Buckthorn
player, 222 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Tue 21 Mar 2023
at 06:00
  • msg #296

Missing Guildmate

"I can try." Buck worriedly yells down from his perch, once the worst of the sudden shaking subsides. He swallows with some difficulty as he reassesses the control mechanisms and refuses to look at the former staircase, now in a ruinous heap below.
Russel Albion
player, 162 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 21 Mar 2023
at 17:36
  • msg #297

Missing Guildmate

To Spriggy, "I found some valves but they redirect and don't shut things off. Unless you think it can't hurt to turn them, I'm leaving them alone for now."
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 507 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Wed 22 Mar 2023
at 00:19
  • msg #298

Missing Guildmate

"Noted," he replied to Russel through their telepathic link. Spriggy then relayed Russel's information to Charlotte. He stayed near her, soaking in any information she said aloud in case he could offer any insights. He also made sure to relay pertinent information mentally to Russel and verbally to anyone else within earshot. His bard-trained voice would surely carry further than Charlotte's own voice.

He did his best to relay accurate and helpful information to the others who were in advantageous positions to pull the various valves, buttons, and levers. Even though doing so carried a very real possibility of danger to everyone. Himself included.


Defy Danger +Int, as requested. Spriggy is attempting to act as the managerial hub that lets everyone know which dangerous tasks to do and when. Like an orchestra conductor directing everyone in a deadly symphony requiring precise timing and clear instruction.

20:17, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 13 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 4,5.  Defy Danger + Int.

The Patchwork God
GM, 855 posts
Wed 22 Mar 2023
at 16:11
  • msg #299

Missing Guildmate

Charlotte passes her instructions along, the various arms moving about the sphere turning swiftly to deviate the beams of lights. Gorrid has to pull her out of the way a few times, as the arms move dangerously close, but one after the others, the beam shine on specific points of the sphere, as the vibrations begins to die down.

As the last crystal comes into position, light shines out of the sphere, drawing a glowing map on the ceiling. Some parts are hard to make out, while others shine more brightly. And then... there are two points glowing more brightly than everything else.

Charlotte looks at them, tilting her head. "Is that the Labyrinthian?" She asks, pointing at one of the lights, near the eastern end of the Sunset Peaks.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 746 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 22 Mar 2023
at 17:44
  • msg #300

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid looked up at the assistants.  "A word of advice...  Knowledge can be a dangerous thing.  If you want to go on yet another long dangerous journey and potentially end up like most of your companions, study the ceiling carefully.  If you want to go home, lie down, close your eyes, recover from the 'wounds' you've suffered, and forget everything you've seen."
Buckthorn
player, 223 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Thu 23 Mar 2023
at 01:05
  • msg #301

Missing Guildmate

Buck appears alongside the old knight and young girl, having somehow managed his way down from the control platform. He joins in staring at the map revealed in light, straining to recall if he's ever seen such an expansive map. "Spriggy, do you have what's necessary to copy such a thing down?" he asks without taking his eyes off the ceiling. "Likely such a reference might not exist anywhere else, impossible to tell how long it will last here." Buck remarks, mostly to himself, thinking more in terms of preserving information than any travel and adventure it could potentially lead to.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 508 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Thu 23 Mar 2023
at 17:04
  • msg #302

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy stared up at the ceiling in awe, observing the map that had appeared. He was lost in thought until Buckthorn spoke his name. "What? Oh, yeah. I should have something that should work." He reached into his gear and pulled out some supplies that would let them copy the map they were seeing. As he began his transcription of the map, he realized what the second point of light was.

"If that is the Labyrinthian, then that means the other point of light is... the Magic Academy? Yeah, that is definitely where the Magic Academy is. Charlotte, what is this oculory's main purpose supposed to be?" He wanted a better idea of why they were seeing what they were seeing.


Using one use of my Adventuring Gear to make a copy of the map we see. Also, do we know what the Labyrinthian is, or should I Spout Lore?
The Patchwork God
GM, 856 posts
Sat 25 Mar 2023
at 17:29
  • msg #303

Missing Guildmate

Charlotte seems as fascinated as Spriggy, circling the sphere to get a better view of the image. "From what I read, it's a scrying device for magical auras." She says, pointing at some of the stronger glows. "Some of these areas are zones where magic is unusually strong... while that black spot, just east of the Onix Peaks? That's a well known dead-magic spot."

"Lord Tiariai was convinced this machine would lead him to some ancient artifacts..." One of the assistant says. "In fact, he was quite insistant that the machine had to be atuned to a certain thaumaturgic wave-length."

"If that's the case, then what he was looking for is either in the Academy, or lost in the Labyrinthian..."
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 747 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sat 25 Mar 2023
at 21:10
  • msg #304

Missing Guildmate

"Well, perhaps we'll have a chat with him once he's woken up...  In the mean-time, perhaps it's best we exit the cavern?  We've caused quite a lot of ruckus, and it'd be best to not be here when the clean-up machines arrive..."

Speaking the words, the paladin took another look around the area to see if there was anything worth taking with them before they left.


quote:
15:09, Today: Sir Gorrid of Torr rolled 8 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 3,3.  Discern realities.

What here is useful or valuable to me?
Buckthorn
player, 224 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Sun 26 Mar 2023
at 06:35
  • msg #305

Missing Guildmate

With the direst of circumstances seemingly behind him, Buck's mind drifts to the return journey and for the first time since leaving the boat they arrived on, he really misses proper city food and longs to treat himself to a hot bath and over-stuffed bed.

He sums up his feelings with a much less revealing statement; "Sagely words, best we not linger here." in response to Gorrid's motion to leave this incredible place behind. He heads towards Tiariai to attend to the lord, knowing full well how beneficial a noble's grace can be and hoping to salvage something positive from what transpired.
Russel Albion
player, 163 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Mon 27 Mar 2023
at 01:52
  • msg #306

Missing Guildmate

Russel was already thinking about Sir Gorrid's comment, "anything worth taking with them before they left."

Once the dire emergency was over, he considered what he had seen while looking for steam controls. Valuable and portable, besides the just shown map, he considered what other dwarves items might have value.
The Patchwork God
GM, 857 posts
Mon 27 Mar 2023
at 15:16
  • msg #307

Missing Guildmate

Little was left behind, but Tiariai has a good looking dwarven-made broadsword that could be sold for 25c, as well as a pouch containing 100c, two vials Bloodweed, and his signet ring worth 75c.

With all of Russel's searching, he managed to spot an interesting looking bottle that slipped under the metal grating. The bottle itself is made of brass, covered in dark bumps. As you pick it up, you realize some of them are decorative beads, but the rest are drops of condensation. Despite how hot the place is, the bottle is unusually cool to the touch. It also has an impressive stopper made of Lapis Lazuli, worth at least 20c on it's own.

You string up the noble, and swiftly make you way back out the ancient ruins, and return to your boat. You drift your way back to Metrosan's Breach, deciding what you will do with your prisoner, and with the information you discovered.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 748 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Mon 27 Mar 2023
at 15:42
  • msg #308

Missing Guildmate

Does he wake up at any point, or did I hit him too hard?  I can try some healing if necessary...
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 509 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Wed 29 Mar 2023
at 01:46
  • msg #309

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy made sure to jot down all of the points of interest on the map before they moved on, even going so far as to give a numerical value to the magic levels he was noting. The Labyrinthian and the Magic Academy were 10s, while the area near the Onix Peaks was a big fat zero. He marked other noteworthy 8s and 9s too, as well as 1s and 2s.

Once they were out on their boat, Spriggy filled in the others on what he knew of the Labyrinthian too, now that they weren't on such high guard. He told them how he heard it was "commissioned by the Calif Nuat, once he had secured his empire. It was built by Dwarves, and was meant as a test for high ranking wizards. The place was abandoned at some point during the Nuatian-Dwarven war, and to Spriggy's knowledge, no one has been able to fully explore it since." He thought maybe it would be worth checking out. Perhaps their guild would even be interested in paying them to do so.

"So maybe Tiariai wasn't so far off with his expectation that the oculory would lead to artifacts," concluded Spriggy. "It certainly wouldn't be out of the question. But right now I think it would be more helpful to figure out what to do with Tiariai himself. Any insights Charlotte? You know the most about his crimes, unfortunately. I still feel bad that we weren't able to reach you sooner." Charging a noble for crimes could always prove to be a bit trickier than it rightfully should. Once again, Sir Gorrid's mercy would cause them more complications than efficient ruthlessness would have. However, Spriggy considered their party lucky to have someone so willing to do the right thing even if it wasn't easy or convenient.
Buckthorn
player, 225 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Wed 29 Mar 2023
at 07:30
  • msg #310

Missing Guildmate

In the down time between recanting the intrepid journey into the dwarven complex and the discussions on what best to do with Lord Tiariai upon arrival, Buck visits with Spriggy when the bard isn't too invested in a book or instrument. At first Buck is awkward and short on words, but after borrowing a scroll and ink and fashioning one of his owl-bear feathers into a quill one night, he returns the next day with a beautifully sketched illustration of a Mire Centipede, the type briefly spotted in the dwarven tunnel.

After a great deal of goading and some drink a few evenings later, Buck coyly demonstrates the form for the elf.
The Patchwork God
GM, 858 posts
Wed 29 Mar 2023
at 16:16
  • msg #311

Missing Guildmate

Charlotte waves away Spriggy's concern. "Don't worry about it. Unpleasant as that was, it could have been worst. Still... kidnapping is often punishable by death, though nobles could get some alternative punishments. And whatever happens to him, he'll be blacklisted by every Guilds around."

OOC: Tiariai will wake up eventually, once you're done discussing what you want to do with him.
Russel Albion
player, 164 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Wed 29 Mar 2023
at 17:21
  • msg #312

Missing Guildmate

Russel consults with Spriggy on the potential value and use of the item he had found.
While tempted to open it to swap out the stopper for one of lesser value, he refrained.

The bottle being unusually cool to the touch made him suspect there was magic involved.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 749 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Wed 29 Mar 2023
at 17:32
  • msg #313

Missing Guildmate

Not sure Sir Gorrid would want to make a final decision before hearing from the man himself - what was he looking for?  What was his motivation?  How much harm has he done beyond the kidnapping?  How much harm could have resulted from whatever he was pursuing?
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 510 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Fri 31 Mar 2023
at 01:57
  • msg #314

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy looked over the item that Russel had found and told him everything he knew about it. Which was hopefully enough for the man to make use of it without getting frostbite. Or at the very least, help him know how much to sell it for.

When Buckthorn showed Spriggy the centipede drawing and even demonstrated the form for him, the bard was elated. He eagerly showed the druid his own drawings of animals that he had been sketching in his songbook/spellbook. There was one for every animal he had convinced to share their soul with him for shapeshifting purposes. There was of course a picture of his pony Lydia, and his friend Kharla's riding horse. Then of course the man-sized rhino beetle he liked to bulk into, as well as the little chipmunk that had proved to be quite useful lately. There was also a sketch of a friendly little mutt of a dog he had come across, and a haughty mute swan, and a vulture, and a sawfish. Spriggy would happily add a sketch of a mire centipede to his collection too, if he could manage the shape himself. With Buckthorn's tutelage, it seemed likely.

And of course he would offer to try and tach Buckthorn one of his own shapes in return. Whichever one that spoke to him most. Or perhaps they could track down an altogether new form together.

But that would probably be best done after they had finished the task at hand. Which was, of course, deciding Lord Tiariai's fate. While the party waited for him to regain consciousness, Spriggy took some time to use his Penguin Token to summon the 80 lb penguin connected to it. He wanted to make good on his promise that he wouldn't only summon it in dire situations, and so he let the penguin relax or swim in the river, or do whatever else it pleased for its one minute of summoning.


I would like to use my Bardic Lore on Russel's item, since it seems magical. I will ask, "What are this item's intended uses?" If it doesn't fall under my Lore, let me know and I will roll Spout Lore with one of my books (for a +4 to Spout Lore).


The Patchwork God
GM, 859 posts
Sat 1 Apr 2023
at 17:02
  • msg #315

Missing Guildmate

The bottle seems to hold something extremely cold, something solidly contained by the metal bottle. You're not certain what is was made for originally, or even if it had a specific goal when it was made. What you do know, is that opening the bottle causes an impressive cloud of condensation, thick enough to stop you from seeing anything farther than your hand. Thankfully, it dissipates quickly when the bottle is blocked again.

After a while, the bound noble shakes and groans. "Where... where's the Oculory? WHERE ARE WE!?" He shouts angrily, struggling against the ropes.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 750 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sat 1 Apr 2023
at 17:54
  • msg #316

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid glanced meaningfully at Spriggy, then sat down on a fallen tree squarely in the captive's line of sight and set to work polishing his sword.  While he'd probably take a turn at working to extract answers, he'd let someone with a more silvery tongue take the first stab.

Presume everyone's had opportunity to heal back to full and refresh spells?
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 511 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 3 Apr 2023
at 23:14
  • msg #317

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy returned Gorrid's gaze and nodded slightly to show he understood. The bard cleared his throat as he decided what exactly to say to the noble. "Lord Tiariai, so nice of you to finally awaken from your little nap. I am afraid the Oculory is well behind us by now. But fear not. We managed to get it working properly not long after you started your snooze. We might even be inclined to share our findings with you if you cooperate until you receive your sentencing for your crimes." Spriggy was careful not to actually promise anything yet, but thought the possibility of answers might help keep Lord Tiariai from throwing an outright tantrum. He had heard of nobles doing such things on the rare occasions when they don't get their way.
The Patchwork God
GM, 860 posts
Fri 7 Apr 2023
at 19:26
  • msg #318

Missing Guildmate

"You... you did it?" He asks, almost getting up despite his bonds. "Did it show where the panacea is!?"

By the look the two assistants share, they seem surprised by Tiariai's outburst. Charlotte looks confused as well. "What? What panacea are you talking about?"

The noble glares at her. "The one the Oculory is supposed to lead to! Like the prophecy says!"
Buckthorn
player, 226 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Fri 7 Apr 2023
at 21:43
  • msg #319

Missing Guildmate

"We're fortunate that there is plenty of time to elaborate." Buck addresses the lord, trying to put a positive spin on it for him, hoping the man doesn't just unravel as he already seems somewhat unhinged.

He decides to conclude his interjection by taking a seat and preparing to actively listen.
The Patchwork God
GM, 861 posts
Sun 9 Apr 2023
at 16:49
  • msg #320

Missing Guildmate

"Don't you know of the Titans? The enslavement of the dwarves? The discoveries of Duf?"

Some of you recognize the name of Duf as one of the most revered ancestors of the dwarven pantheon, the patron of intelligence, medicine, and alchemy. But the blank stares you give Tiariai tells him you have no idea what the connection is to his actions.

He scowls before continuing. "In the ancient times, before the war of the dead, the dwarves were enslaved by the great Titans. For generation, they toiled under the boots of their immense masters, until Duf discovered a powerful poison.

Slowly, carefully, they poisoned the drinks and food of the Titans, slowly destroying their mind and bodies, weakening them until they degenerated into the giants we know today. The giants forgot about their slaves, abandoning their fortresses in the Wall to the dwarves, who still rule there today."
Buckthorn
player, 227 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Sun 9 Apr 2023
at 19:52
  • msg #321

Missing Guildmate

"And the panacea would be...?" Buck feels a bit foolish asking, and hopes his humble mire upbringings and lacking common history hasn't left him as the only one in the dark. His curiosity piqued, he suddenly feels uncomfortable with not knowing.

"Apologies for my dearth of knowledge on the subject." he quickly adds, no longer meeting the lord's eyes. He picks some small debris off of his cloak.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:53, Sun 09 Apr 2023.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 512 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Mon 10 Apr 2023
at 16:51
  • msg #322

Missing Guildmate

"Yes, could we please hear what this panacea is supposed to be? Is it supposed to be the titain-poison you mentioned? Or an antidote for it? Or perhaps something else entirely?" The bard made sure not to claim they had found the location of this panacea, but also made sure not to claim they hadn't. Truthfully he wasn't sure either way, but the Lord didn't need to know that. At least not yet.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 751 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Mon 10 Apr 2023
at 17:03
  • msg #323

Missing Guildmate

Sir Gorrid sat implacably, listening and sharpening his sword.
Russel Albion
player, 165 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Mon 10 Apr 2023
at 17:26
  • msg #324

Missing Guildmate

Russel's attention was drawn by the mention of the word poison. While not wishing to interfere with the questioning, he did reflect on the possibility that he might have heard of what should have been a notable poison even if only in historical use.

13:25, Today: Russel Albion rolled 3 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,2.  Spout Lore of Titan poison.
The Patchwork God
GM, 862 posts
Tue 11 Apr 2023
at 15:15
  • msg #325

Missing Guildmate

"Duf created the poison... but he couldn't stop himself from creating a cure as well. He left a warning, that should the giants find the Panacea, they could restore their lost might and knowledge, and seek to conquer the world once more." The noble explains, a look of almost madness in his eyes. "Such threat cannot be allowed to go on! The Panacea must be found, and destroyed!"
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 752 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Tue 11 Apr 2023
at 15:33
  • msg #326

Missing Guildmate

The paladin glanced up from his work.  "You mentioned a prophesy?"

If the wisest of the dwarves had decided to create a cure, it seemed odd that it was suddenly necessary to destroy it thousands of years later...
Russel Albion
player, 166 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 11 Apr 2023
at 19:48
  • msg #327

Missing Guildmate

To Spriggy, Russel quietly asked, almost unnoticed by the others, "The Oculary is supposed to detect magic right? Poisons and even potions are not magical so, how was that supposed to work?"
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 513 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Thu 13 Apr 2023
at 02:46
  • msg #328

Missing Guildmate

Spriggy was also curious about the prophecy, so he remained quiet while Gorrid's question was answered. Spriggy had a guess as to part of the answer to Russel's question, but remained quiet about that for now too. At the very least, Spriggy assumed magic would be involved with the poison to keep it from spoiling or to keep it hidden over the last thousand years.
The Patchwork God
GM, 863 posts
Thu 13 Apr 2023
at 16:56
  • msg #329

Missing Guildmate

"Yes, that the giants would find the Panacea and use it!" The noble says to Gorrid.

He frowns at Russel's question. "What do you mean? The Oculary was made to detect the Panacea!"

Charlotte shakes her head. "No, the plate was pretty clear that it's made to detect mana, magical energy. It didn't say anything about a a Panacea."

"But... it can't be! You're lying! You fools are trying to keep the location of the Panacea to yourselves!" Tiariai shouts, trying to jump to his feet despite his bonds.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 753 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Thu 13 Apr 2023
at 17:23
  • msg #330

Missing Guildmate

"If this is a threat to our whole world, why is this a mission you've taken upon yourself?  Surely the dwarves would be the ones with the strongest interest in protecting this panacea?  Why you?"
Buckthorn
player, 228 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Fri 14 Apr 2023
at 01:21
  • msg #331

Missing Guildmate

Buck nods, affirming Gorrid's wise inquiry. He's keen to know the answer and stops fidgeting with his cloak, again making eye contact with the paranoid noble.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 514 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Sun 16 Apr 2023
at 00:41
  • msg #332

Missing Guildmate

"And what good would it do to tell you the location of the Panacea anyway? You know, assuming we were lying to you about it. You are about to spend time serving a sentence for your crime of abducting Charlotte. Best you give us all the information you can and let us handle it from here."
The Patchwork God
GM, 864 posts
Sun 16 Apr 2023
at 16:55
  • msg #333

Missing Guildmate

"NO! Fools like you wouldn't know how to handle such responsibility!" He howls, still struggling with his bonds. He keeps ranting in a barely coherent manner, making it clear that he only considers someone of noble birth able to take on such important, world shaking task. And with the way he's ranting and raving... he's doing a great job of proving himself wrong.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 754 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sun 16 Apr 2023
at 17:39
  • msg #334

Missing Guildmate

"It's been a thousand years.  What sign makes you think the giants are suddenly going to discover the Panacea now?  And if you found it, how were you planning to destroy it?"
The Patchwork God
GM, 866 posts
Tue 18 Apr 2023
at 16:37
  • msg #335

Missing Guildmate

Gorrid's question on earns more shouting, as your not-noble-looking prisoner keeps uselessly struggling against his bonds.

Charlotte shakes her head when looking at him. "I don't think he had a plan... I mean, the way he just grabbed me when I mentioned the Oculary, it's not something a person would do if they stopped and thought things out. He's just... too obsessed with this Panacea to think things through rationally."
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 755 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Tue 18 Apr 2023
at 17:36
  • msg #336

Missing Guildmate

"Is it worth going back to his estate to see if we can find some information there, or would that risk his employees and family trying to gain his release?  (If he often behaves like this, they might well prefer he didn't come back...)"
Russel Albion
player, 167 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Tue 18 Apr 2023
at 18:38
  • msg #337

Missing Guildmate

If "he's pretty much a raving lunatic" then, he is wasting our time and energy.
Is there a way we can have someone else take him Home?
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 756 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Tue 18 Apr 2023
at 19:35
  • msg #338

Missing Guildmate

BTW - I'm assuming we had the servants as well as those guards who'd surrendered or merely been rendered unconscious help with lugging back the bodies of those who'd died.  We'd want to ensure they could be returned to their families, or if that's not practical, at least give them a proper burial.
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 516 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Fri 21 Apr 2023
at 16:59
  • msg #339

Missing Guildmate

"Perhaps a few of us should go on ahead and investigate his home. Without Lord Tiariai present. At least one or two of us should probably stay with our captive here as well. He seems determined to wiggle away, and I would not be surprised if he eventually succeeded, if left unguarded."
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 757 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Fri 21 Apr 2023
at 19:17
  • msg #340

Missing Guildmate

"Until our dear lady makes it safely home, I have no need for rest or sustenance.  I can keep him and the remaining guards under my watchful eye.  Perhaps after he rests a bit he'll have calmed down to the point where he can be convinced to provide a letter of authorization.  If not, then sweet-talking and alternative modes of entry will have to make due..."

With that, the knight put away his sharpening stone and took out an oiled rag and focused on polishing the blade.
Russel Albion
player, 168 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Fri 21 Apr 2023
at 22:41
  • msg #341

Missing Guildmate

"I may be able to get in and maybe take another if needed," responded Russel.
"Do we have any solid ideas of what we would be looking for?"
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 758 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sat 22 Apr 2023
at 02:35
  • msg #342

Missing Guildmate

"Whatever this prophesy is and any other information that might indicate whether there's any reality underlying this man's ravings...  I presume whatever materials he has that relate to the topic will be easily accessible and well-worn."
The Patchwork God
GM, 867 posts
Sun 23 Apr 2023
at 16:23
  • msg #343

Missing Guildmate

"He has a vault with some of his old dwarven texts," Charlotte explains. "But there really wasn't anything truly exceptional there. This plate is probably the rarest document he found, and even that he seemed to completely misunderstand what it meant. We'd probably have a better chance to find more accurate information in a good library."
Spriggy Glompgut
player, 517 posts
Light Elf Bard
HP 17/18, Armor 2
Sun 23 Apr 2023
at 18:14
  • msg #344

Missing Guildmate

"In that case, I suggest we save ourselves the unnecessary risk and head back to the guild hall instead." It sounded like breaking into the vault would prove fruitless, and was itself illegal anyway. It wouldn't do them any favors to turn in a criminal they had performed crimes against themselves. It would probably only give him leverage for a lighter sentence.
Buckthorn
player, 230 posts
Halfling Woodsman
Level 5, 8 XP
Fri 28 Apr 2023
at 02:12
  • msg #345

Missing Guildmate

"Do the Phoenix Blades have, or have access to an extensive library?" Buck asks, sending an unintentional reminder of how recently he has joined the outfit. He is much more in favor of this latest plan of action and it is apparent in his hopeful tone.
Sir Gorrid of Torr
player, 759 posts
Lvl 5 Paladin, XP: 3
Armor 4, HP 23/23
Sat 29 Apr 2023
at 00:33
  • msg #346

Missing Guildmate

"I'm happy to see our lady home as soon as possible.  I think it's best if we buried the guards we confronted before we continue our travels.  This is nearer their home and they won't fare well on the journey back to town."  He waited to see if there were any objections, then set to work digging and assembled a small cairn above the mass grave before pausing to pray.
Russel Albion
player, 169 posts
Lvl 4 Thief, XP:0
Armor: 1, HP 22/22
Sat 29 Apr 2023
at 16:42
  • msg #347

Missing Guildmate

Russel gave Sir Gorrid a hand with carrying and burying the bodies.
The Patchwork God
GM, 868 posts
Sun 30 Apr 2023
at 15:45
  • msg #348

Missing Guildmate

"We do, like any good guilds." Charlotte says. "It's not as good as the one at the magical academy, but Mortimer gathered plenty of documents from as far as the Kingdom of Deepearth."

With the victims of Tiariai's eagerness buried, you return to the capital. Your prisoners are turned over to the authorities, with a long description of what happened. Then, you return to the Pheonix's Nest, for some well deserved rest.

OOC: Mark yourself 3 xp each for completing the adventure!
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