Aegis E6

[Deadguy]

https://i.postimg.cc/t4DxMN07/truckkun.jpg

In the cacophony of a bustling metropolis, where the symphony of urban life intertwined with the screeching of car tires and the distant hum of conversations, an unassuming figure stands at the epicenter of a calamitous event. Your reality shattered in an instant, crushed beneath the wheels of a truck possessed by a mischievous and otherworldly spirit—the infamous Truck-Kun.

As your life flickered between existence and oblivion, a being materialized before you, shimmering with a hazy luminescence. With an air of absentmindedness that hinted at ancient wisdom, the entity's wrinkled brow furrowed in a cloud of confusion. "Oh, dear me," he mumbled, fumbling through ethereal pockets, searching for something. "It seems that that blasted Truck-Kun keeps it's big wheels a-rollin'... Can't send you back, terribly sorry. That spirit is becoming a real problem these days!"

The being's ramblings cascaded over you like a disorganized symphony, each word an errant note threatening to drown out the crucial information. With an apologetic shrug and a crooked smile, the god-like being continued, his gaze momentarily lost in the vastness of a cosmic void. "But fret not, my wayward friend, for I shall grant you a boon, a new world for your weary soul to traverse. Just a small favor, considering my...ahem, busy schedule. It is in need of heroes and you'll do quite well, I think... I hope."

In the liminal space that bridged realms, you find yourself transfixed by an ethereal manifestation—a mesmerizing screen flickering with infinitesimal fragments of possibility. It pulsed with vibrant hues, each pixel capturing the essence of unexplored landscapes and thrilling encounters. The sights and sounds of untamed realms called out to you, beckoning you to forge a new path in this uncharted domain. It was too much to process for your mind until it finally settled into a simple blue screen that had a single button in the middle stating, 'Start Avatar Selection'.

The god, now lost in thought, absently scratched his bearded chin. "Ah, yes. Race, Attributes, abilities, appearance, equipment." he muttered, casting a fleeting glance at you before shifting his attention back to a the screen. "Choose wisely, my friend, for this new vessel shall encapsulate your dreams, your hopes, your triumphs."

Your mind swirled with the richness of imagination, envisioning the worlds you might soon traverse. The distant echoes of arcane incantations, the verdant hues of ancient forests, and the metallic tang of battle hung in the air, all waiting to be experienced in their fullest glory. You yearn to craft a character who would not only survive but thrive in this unyielding realm.

As the god's chaotic mutterings filled the interstitial void, you try to speak but as a disembodied spirit, you have no voice. Resolving yourself to do the only thing you could do, you focused on the screen before you in the limbo between realms and began making choices. Time seemed to be infinite and pass in the blink of an eye as you spent an unknown amount of time making your choices.

In a crescendo of brilliance, the character creation screen absorbed your essence as you make the final selection, imprinting your choices onto the very fabric of rebirth. The god, still lost in his own cosmic reverie, bid you farewell with a distracted wave of a hand. "Off you go, then! Make a name for yourself in those new lands, my young adventurer. And do say hello to the talking squirrels for me, won't you?"

--

With a jolt, you find yourself standing on a grassy hill, your figure is pristine. A veritable Adonis clad in light chain armor with dangerously curved daggers hanging at your powerful hips. Gazing up from yourself, you see a large village in the distance to the north, a dense forest to your south, and rolling plains dotted with hills to the east and west.


https://i.postimg.cc/ncBK0mcQ/Plains.jpg

[Aegis013]

Looking down at his own hands, Zareus clenches and unclenches them, rapidly becoming accustomed to this alien body. A pudgy number-cruncher previously, it was strange to have such energy and to be free of the back pains that had plagued him due to his office work. He jumps up and down a few times and stretches before surveying the terrain around him.

Spotting the village he says to himself aloud, in order to hear his own voice "I suppose I should learn what I can about this place." and starts walking towards what appears to be civilization.

[Deadguy]

As you moved down the rolling hills toward the village, the wind gently caresses your face and the long grass. It is a far cry from the stench and cacophony of the big city. A serene and tranquil setting that could lull one's senses into a peaceful slumber. That is, until the peace was shattered by chattering cackles and a man's desperate shouts.

Down the hill, on a well-worn wagon trail, there appeared to be a teamster atop a wagon with a crossbow. Both he and the horses that had been pulling the wagon were being accosted by small green being with comically large heads.


https://static3.paizo.com/image/content/PathfinderModules/PZO9500-9-Reta.jpg

Two carried sharpened sticks that were easily twice as long as they were, while the other carried a crude bow and a quiver of crooked twigs for arrows. They seemed to be having a jovial time of putting the man and the horses into a panic.

[Aegis013]

Reaching down and gripping the handles of the curved swords at his side, Zareus crouches and begins to move toward the engagement with haste. The swords feel surprisingly comfortable in the per-callused hands as if he had been using them for many years. As he gets closer he calls out to the strange green creatures in the common tongue.

"Hey! Cease accosting that man at once!"

Initiative [roll0]
Perception 21 (Keen Ear allows me to take 10 even when threatened)

[Deadguy]

As you draw closer and announce yourself, the cackling stops and each of the creatures turns toward you with a cocked head, similar to what a confused dog might do. Their grins return as the archer makes some sort of grunting and snarling words.

Preparing for battle suddenly floods your vision with information. A Heads-up Display similar to video games appears in the peripherals of your vision. Vital information, such as your hit points, abilities, and maneuvers are all at the ready.

Centrally, there is a pop-up that appears as soon as you draw your weapons. While it obscures your vision slightly, as you focus on the enemy, it fades almost completely, leaving you undistracted.

First Combat initiated! 150 xp awarded!

Your sharp senses pick up the legs of a fourth assailant on the other side of the cart, though it hasn't made it's way to your side to identify it any further than the rags the other creatures wear.

Goblin Initiative - [roll0]

[Aegis013]

Zareus charges down the hill, a strange magical force filling his body as he adjusts to having a HUD. He brings one of his weapons to bear against the nearest green creature.

Not sure on distance, so I charge the nearest goblin.

[roll0] to hit
On a 26+ [roll1] to confirm critical

If it hits, [roll2] slashing plus 5 fire
If it crits, it deals [roll3] slashing plus 5 fire more.

AC drops to 16 until next turn.
Animus increases to 7

Maneuver granted next turn: [roll4] - Fluctuation of Movement

[Deadguy]

The creature is sliced across the chest before igniting in a flare of magic. The smell of singed flesh and dirty rags fill the air as it crumples to the ground in a smoldering heap.

First Kill! 100 xp awarded!

The archer fires one of the crude arrows and the other spear-wielding creature stabs at you in a panic having seen it's partner dispatched in such a quick manner.

"Look out for the mage lad!" The man calls out as the last creature becomes visible around the back of the wagon. It begins to weave its hands in the air and bark its strange language before an ear-piercing screech rocks your head.


[roll0] - Fort Save dc 13 vs daze and 1/2 dmg
Bow shot: [roll1]
- Damage: [roll2]
Spear: [roll3]
- Damage: [roll4]

[Aegis013]

Zareus avoids the incoming attacks, parrying with his weapons.

[roll0]

Then brings his weapon down on the nearest goblin, flames erupting around the blade.

[roll1] Spark Strike
if it hits, deals [roll2] plus [roll3] fire.

Swift: Energy Spark, expending all 8 animus (including the one gained at the beginning of this round) to fire 5 fire rays at all of the goblins within its 30ft range, if the damage would kill a goblin, fire at the next goblin.

[roll4] vs touch dealing [roll5] fire
[roll6] vs touch dealing [roll7] fire
[roll8] vs touch dealing [roll9] fire
[roll10] vs touch dealing [roll11] fire
[roll12] vs touch dealing [roll13] fire

The flames snake out from the slash towards other goblins.

[Deadguy]

The scorching rays of fire explode from your body like a firework on the 4th of July. When the smoke and embers clear, nothing but corpses remain of the goblins that had threatened the wagon.

First combat complete! 100 xp awarded!
500 xp awarded!
Multi-kill bonus! 300 xp awarded!

The man atop the wagon sat in awe. "Well… I’ll be damned, never saw nothing like that… my thanks to you stranger. They woulda made off with the horses and grain if you wouldn’ta happened by. Need a lift? It’s the least I can do."

[Aegis013]

Zareus flourishes his kukris, slinging the blood of the goblins onto the ground around him and focuses the last of his animus to heal the minor damage dealt by the spellcaster as he returns the weapons to his sides.

"Thank you. I'm Zareus, pleasure to meet you." he replies, hopping onto the wagon. "Are attacks of that nature common in these parts?"

[Deadguy]

The man atop the wagon gave a click and gave the reigns a light snap to get the horses moving once you are seated. "Name’s Lars. I have a farm up to the north. Those goblin bastards been raiding every wagon and caravan that gets anywhere near the south forest. They don’t come this far too often. Have to say, ain’t never seen someone use fire like that ‘cept maybe a mage… but you don’t look like no mage."

Enemy identified! 250 xp awarded.

[Aegis013]

Zareus smiles at Lars as he finds some place on the wagon to get comfortable. "I'm afraid I'm not from around these parts. I take it mages are magic-users of some variety? Are they common in these lands?"

[Deadguy]

Lars shrugs slightly. "They call themselves all different things… wizard, sorcerer, arcanist. Almost all of them are a part of the Guild, so they only stay as long as their quests take. I imagine you’ll be wantin’ to join the Guild too with your talents… I’ll drop you off there when we get in town."

[Aegis013]

"Thank you Lars. I'll check out this guild you mentioned. Perhaps I can use my skills to do some good here." Zareus surveys the passing terrain, everything seems so bright after his fateful encounter with Truck-kun.

[Deadguy]

The rest of the ride, while slightly bumpy thanks to the rutted road, his beautiful countryside. Small farmhouses stand out from the fields with the occasional tree throwing shade for cattle and sheep. Houses get closer together and closer to the worsening road as you approach town.

Lars takes the wagon down what must be the Main Street. Shops like a butcher and baker would be common in this setting. Others, like an alchemist, are exotic and only familiar due to video games in the real world.

The largest building, constructed of stone with two stories and wide double doors is where Lars pulls up the horses to stop. ”Here ya go. Thank again for the help.”

[Aegis013]

"Thank you for the ride, Lars. May you have good fortune." Zareus says, jumping down from the wagon. He does a stretch and walks towards the entrance of the large stone building, throwing open the double doors and venturing inside.

[Deadguy]

A hushed tone fell over the room as the doors were flung open. A few patrons sat at tables near the window. A large board with papers attached was on the back wall.


https://thicc-af.mywaifulist.moe/waifus/guild-girl-goblin-slayer/5qUQ0BMBWMsJMZFI4FFMnZxg6LyGLhiYrLwY60tL.png?class =thumbnail

To one side, a woman stood behind a desk. She smiled and spoke. "Greetings traveler. The Adventuring Guild is here to serve. How may I help you? Seeking to submit a quest, or perhaps, become a member yourself?" The last bit was spoken with a bubbly excitement that was almost contagious.

[Aegis013]

Zareus briefly surveys the Guild Hall and then walks towards the bubbly woman with purpose. "Greetings. I am Zareus, and am not from around here. Can you tell me what function this guild serves in the community? I seek to utilize my skills in service of the people and was told this may be a good place to start."

Zareus stays attentive to the reactions of patrons near the windows as well.

Use Keen Ear to take 10 for a 21 if necessary.

[Deadguy]

The young woman clasped her hands together with a fierce look in her eyes.

"This is indeed the place you’re looking for. We offer a variety of services to the community based on nominal fees increasing as the difficulty of quest increases. Everything from deliveries to monster extermination. We also have a safety feature which ranks our members and restricts the difficulty of quest they can accept based on that rank. It’s for our members safety, really… Please let me know if you’re interested and I’ll get the evaluation started right away."

The other occupants seemed to be lounging, eating and drinking with only a casual glance in your direction. The three of them might be working together as they are sharing a table.

[Aegis013]

"Very well. I would like to undertake the evaluation." Zareus responds, satisfied with the answer.

[Deadguy]

The woman reaches under the desk and produces a mirror.

"Please loook into the mirror."

As you do so the patrons seem more interested. The woman’s eyes glow as she studies the mirror before making an announcement.

"Wow, I’ve never personally seen a starting rank like this. You are categorized as Rank C!"

"What?! How?! It’s taken me almost a year to hit rank D and this guy just shows up at C!" One of the patrons in medium armor seems upset at the announcement.

[Aegis013]

Zareus inquires "What criteria are used to determine these rankings? Additionally, what does it mean for me to be considered rank C?"

[Deadguy]

"It's a combination of your base statistics and level." She seems a bit in awe of the results. The stunned look overcoming the bubbly personality.

You've gained Rank F! +250 xp
You've gained Rank D! +500 xp
You've gained Rank C! +1000 xp

Several notifications flood your HUD as she submits the application by making several touches on the mirror.

"You're all set! Now you can select Class C and lower quests from the boards on the back wall."

[Aegis013]

"Very well." Zareus says, trying not to make a big deal of the upset patron's protestation, he strides to the back wall and reviews the available quests that are within his rank limit.

[Deadguy]

The wall has a board marked F, D , C, B, and A respectively. The B and A boards are blank.

C has the following:
Escort Requested
Escort a caravan from the village of Wheaton to Brewton. 2 weeks of travel. Possible dangers include bandits, goblins, and giants. Reward of 1500 gold upon arrival to Brewton.

D has the following:
Retrieval Requested
Retrieve the stolen anvil and smithing equipment from the Southern Forest. Enchanted anvil was taken from caravan by goblin raiders who make their camp in the Southern Forest. Reward of a +1 enchantment to a chosen weapon upon receipt of anvil by Wheaton blacksmith.

F has the following:
Open Season
Each left goblin ear will earn 100 gold upon return to the Wheaton Guildhall.

[Aegis013]

Zareus takes the D rank request and returns to the counter with the bubbly woman. "I suspect this anvil will be important to Wheaton's future. I would like to retrieve it. Is there a formal process to accept, or are these jobs paid on a first come, first served basis?"

[Deadguy]

"The quest is yours alone unless you take the quest with a party. If you find you are unable to complete it, you can also return the quest to the Guildhall, and it will be reposted for others to attempt."

She holds the quest against the mirror, and it is absorbed, seeming to add the quest information into your biography.

[Aegis013]

Zareus nods and exits the guild hall. He checks the position of the sun in the sky to determine the time of day. If there is sufficient daylight left, he departs for the southern forest. Otherwise, he seeks out an inn and departs at dawn.

[Deadguy]

Your ride into the village and subsequent time in the Guildhall has taken most of the morning. The Sun shines brightly overhead. The main thoroughfare continues south out of town. A two hour trek by foot takes you to the very start of a forest. The road continues to be a well-worn dirt path with deep ruts in places that stayed damp.

Your keen eyes pick up a lone wagon trail that veers off the main path into the deeper woods.

[Aegis013]

Zareus will follow the lone wagon trail, keeping his wits about him and trying to avoid being obvious about his movements.

Survival to follow the trail [roll0]
Stealth [roll1]
Use Keen Ear to take 10 on Perception for a 21.

[Deadguy]

As you move through the forest, there are several places where the wagon appears to have gotten stuck and several sets of small footprints travel back and forth in attempts to free it from the mud.

The light is much reduced in the thick canopy of trees, yet your keen eyes just pick up what appears to be an iridescent thread connected to one of the tree limbs. Following it up, you can see an abnormally large spider, nearly as big as a man, resting in the center of several similar strands connected to the trees. As your eyes scan around, you pick up several other large masses higher in branches that can only be more of these spiders.


https://goblincoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Leaping-Spider.jpg

A few more minutes by foot, and you can hear the raucous laughing and what would pass for singing. A bit further and you can see shapes dancing around a fire in the middle of a clearing. A wagon sits close by and several goblins are busy going in and out of a cave, bringing items inside.

[Aegis013]

Zareus sneaks closer to the goblins. The hopes of determining their numbers, identifying any leader, and verifying the anvil's presence before committing to an all-out fight too tantalizing to ignore, particularly given the presence of other dangers in this forest.

[roll0] Stealth
21 Perception

[Deadguy]

You hear several grunts and hoots as you draw nearer. You can see the dancing and celebrating has stopped. Several have grabbed nearby weapons and are looking about, as if trying to find something.

There is one close to the fire wrapped in ill-fitting leather armor with a muscular and nearly hairless looking dog at his side. He appears to give orders and about half of the dozen, armed with spears and bows just like the previous encounter begin making their way through the brush in your direction.

[Aegis013]

Recalling the F rank goblin hunting mission, Zareus decides to engage the enemy. Before the enemy has spotted him, he calls upon the power of the elements to bathe himself in shadows.

Initiative [roll0]
Free: Gain my allotment of 6 animus for combat.
Surprise Round: Move action:expend 1 animus to activate the Mystic class feature Elemental Glyph (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/alternative-rule-systems/path-of-war/classes/mystic/#TOC-Elemental-Glyph-Su-): Darkness, Zareus can select up to 5 allies (I assume Zareus counts as his own ally) to grant 20% concealment for 6 rounds.

[Deadguy]

The goblins all start to yell and curse in their crude tongue as you become visible by becoming less visible... They prepare to engage, or run, depending on how things start.

Goblin Initiative: [roll0]

[Aegis013]

Zareus rushes the large commander goblin, taking advantage of his speed as he draws his weapons.

He brings his weapon down in the same goblin-slaying maneuver previously used.

Move: move into melee with the commander goblin.
Standard: Spark Strike
[roll0] to hit
On 26+ [roll1] to crit.

On hit it deals [roll2] slashing and fire damage.
On a crit it deals [roll3] more.

On a hit, activate Energy Spark, burning 6 animus to launch four total fire rays at the goblins.
Ranged Touch attacks:
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]
[roll7]

Dealing fire damage.
[roll8]
[roll9]
[roll10]
[roll11]

[Deadguy]

There were several gasps as you flew past the goblins to get to their boss. They quickly turned into shrieks of panic when the fire rained down, killing a handful of lessers as their boss laid in a smoldering heap. Several ran for the cave, while a few others took off in random directions through the woods.

Only two goblins remained resolved, along with the large dog that just watched its master be slain. They all move to flank you and stab you with spears or their teeth, in the case of the dog.


4 goblins retreat to cave
3 goblins flee to woods
2 goblins + dog stand
4 goblins + boss dead

Dog Bite: [roll0] / Damage: [roll1] || Miss Chance (low miss): [roll2]
Goblin Spear: [roll3] / Damage: [roll4] || Miss Chance (low miss): [roll5]
Goblin Spear: [roll6] / Damage: [roll7] || Miss Chance (low miss): [roll8]

[Aegis013]

With the dog sinking its teeth into Zareus, he lashes out with his weapons, attempting to cut the remaining foes to ribbons.

Full Attack, prioritize the dog, activate Minute Hand boost for an extra attack. Use a 5ft step amidst the attacks if needed to get to a spear wielding goblin.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

On a 24+
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]

Damage:
[roll6] slashing, 5 of the damage is fire.
[roll7]
[roll8]

On a crit, the attack deals an additional:
[roll9] slashing, 5 of the damage is fire.
[roll10]
[roll11]

[Deadguy]

One of the goblins goes down to the fury of blades and fire. Yet, the others resolve holds firm so long as the dog stands by him.


1 goblin + dog stand
5 goblins + boss dead

Dog Bite: [roll0] / Damage: [roll1] || Miss Chance (low miss): [roll2]
Goblin Spear: [roll3] / Damage: [roll4] || Miss Chance (low miss): [roll5]

[Aegis013]

Avoiding another bite at the cost of a spear finding him, Zareus brings his weapon down on the dog in an effort to immolate it.

Standard: Variable Flux maneuver on the dog
[roll0] to hit

On hit it deals [roll1] slashing and fire, Reflex save DC 16 or catch on fire (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/gamemastering/environment/environmental-rules#TOC-Catching-on-Fire) for [roll2] rounds.

On a 26+
[roll3] to confirm

On crit it deals [roll4]

[Deadguy]

The dog yips and whines as it's skin is covered in flames. The. smell is nearly sickening, yet it continues to press it's savage attacks. The leaping and lunging did much to extinguish the flames that had just moments ago engulfed it.

The goblin too, stays the course, emboldened by the success with the spear. It thrusts toward you once more as the dog brings it's only weapon to bear.


1 goblin + dog stand
5 goblins + boss dead

Dog Bite: [roll0] / Damage: [roll1] || Miss Chance (low miss): [roll2]
Goblin Spear: [roll3] / Damage: [roll4] || Miss Chance (low miss): [roll5]

[Aegis013]

Zareus again full attacks, swiping with his weapons at the dog.


To hit:
[roll0]
[roll1]

Damage:
[roll2]
[roll3]

Swift: activating Degrade Resistance Boost to lower the dog's fire resistance by 10. It probably doesn't have fire resistance, but this will generate an animus before Zareus' maneuvers reset.

[Deadguy]

The dog crumbles in a pool of boiling blood with the first swipe. You deftly step between the body and the goblin, and before it can utter the shriek of terror that is etched on its face, your blade splits it from naval to collarbone. There would be an eerie silence if not for the echoes of shrieks coming from the goblins as they run deeper into the cave.

The anvil sits on the back of the wagon. There are several scratch marks where the weak goblins tried to move it.


Combat Completed. 3200 xp awarded!
Multi-kill bonus! 400 xp awarded!

[Aegis013]

Worn from the battle, Zareus takes a moment to meditate, using his animus to repair his injuries.

[roll]4d6 messed up that roll, not that it matters.

As he does this, he finds the animus has grown stronger.

Change to Elemental Flux stance from leveling up, since I'm currently using Fire, Zareus gains Fast Healing 1 and heals to full.

Then, not concerned about the goblins, examines the anvil and determines whether it would be easier to simply carry the anvil, or whether the wagon is in sufficient condition to make the exit journey, knowing it got stuck multiple times coming in.

Once decided, Zareus cuts the left ears off of the seven slain goblins, tosses them in a pouch on his haversack and begins the trek back to Wheaton.

[Deadguy]

Your magical bag is able to hold the anvil without any problems, the horses for the wagon are long gone. A quick inspection of the fire would show you various bits of them being cooked.

As you head back to Wheaton, following the same trail that you came in, your keen senses notice the trees are alive. Several of the spiders have snared prey in the panicked goblins that ran from their camp. Several others are actively hunting.

Spiders (3) Initiative: [roll0]
Zareus Initiative: [roll1]

[Aegis013]

Zareus focuses his energy and tapping into a new element, launches a blob of acid at one of the spiders, additional blobs burst into the air and launch at the other two. Zareus fully intends to avoid setting fire to their webs or the forest at large.

Elemental Flux Style: Free action - change to Earth element. Elemental Flux Stance no longer provides fast healing and illumination, instead providing DR 5/Adamantine.

Move: Elemental Glyph: Darkness - gain 20% concealment

Standard: Energy Jolt maneuver - ranged touch attack within 30ft [roll0] to hit

On hit it deals [roll1] acid damage. If it's alive, it takes [roll2] more at the start of my next turn and must succeed a Fort DC 17 or be Sickened (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/gamemastering/Conditions/#sickened) for 5 rounds.

Swift: Energy Spark maneuver - expending all 6 animus for 3 additional rays.
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]

Dealing:
[roll7] acid
[roll8] acid
[roll9] acid
[roll10] acid

If any of the attacks hit 27:
[roll11]
[roll12]
[roll13]
[roll14]
[roll15]

For a bonus
[roll16] acid damage
[roll17]
[roll18]
[roll19]
[roll20]

[Deadguy]

All three spiders melt into goop, only one's body hanging by the threads of web. The other two fall to the ground with a sloppy crumpling noise.


Combat Completed. 2400 xp awarded!
Multi-kill bonus! 300 xp awarded!

[Aegis013]

Satisfied with his work, Zareus continues his trek back to Wheaton.

[Deadguy]

You make it back to town without further incident. The Sun is just starting to set upon your arrival. The inn is filling with travelers and folks seeking a work-free, yet hearty meal away from home.

The Guildhouse appears to still be manned, with lanterns shining in the windows. The repetitive clang of the blacksmith forging small pieces like horseshoes and nails before the embers go cold for the night.

[Aegis013]

Zareus marches triumphantly into the guild hall, approaching the counter, he produces the anvil and the seven goblin ears.

"I've returned with the anvil. However, I'm unfamiliar with the next steps. Does the guild handle returning to the anvil to its owner?"

[Deadguy]

"Yes, we can do that! You'll need to visit the blacksmith tomorrow for your reward, however. That should give him enough to time to get the enchanted anvil prepared to craft whatever you are requesting."

The bubbly girl hefted the anvil with a small grunt and put it on the floor behind the counter and produced a chest, that she counted seven platinum (100g each) coins for the ears.

"No new quests have come in while you've been gone." It also appeared that the previous guests had gotten hungry or perhaps they went out looking for goblin ears to turn in themselves.

You've completed your first quest!
2000 xp awarded.

[Aegis013]

Zareus graciously accepts the payment, then goes to the inn. Once there he announces in a loud voice. "I'm Zareus, rank C adventurer, I'm new here and celebrating my first successful job! The next round is on me!" Afterward, Zareus will spend time chatting up anyone willing to talk, trying to find out more about the things going on in the region.

Diplomacy [roll0]

[Deadguy]

There were several cheers at the announcement. The barmaid looks completely flustered suddenly as she has many more orders to handle.


https://i.pinimg.com/170x/48/55/c2/4855c231db4e79091892fb959802a05c.jpg

You speak to one F rank adventurer who mentions he had been hunting goblins in that same cave for several days without ever making a dent on the population. Either the cave is extensive, or the goblin population has some sort of respawn mechanism... or both.

[Aegis013]

"Fascinating. Perhaps we could gather a party and see just how deep the goblin cave goes?" Zareus asks the F rank adventurer. "I'm a bit curious where they're all coming from."

[Deadguy]

"Maybe as a C rank, you want to go cave diving, but I'm content cutting ears for a living. It's easy enough money." The man scoffed at your idea of risking your neck to go deeper.

[Aegis013]

"Both sensible and prudent. I respect that. Enjoy your drink, friend." Zareus will continue to chat though if no further conversations of acute interest can be found, he'll find himself lodging for the evening, intending to visit the town blacksmith and likely take that remaining quest in the morning.

[Deadguy]

The inn had room enough available, and the innkeeper was pleased enough to have a patron that spent 5 gold on drinks for the entire occupancy to spend the night.

In the morning, the blacksmith was already waiting for you with the anvil set up in his forge. "I can't thank ya enough for retrieving this, but enchanting one of your weapons is the least I can do. What's your pleasure?"

https://live.staticflickr.com/7451/26797700615_76d3215c42_b.jpg

When you came back to the Guildhall, the bubbly young woman gives you a wave and points to the board. There is another quest, this one is in the B category. It read "Exploration - The Southern Forest Cave. There may be several levels to explore, each level cleared and verified will net 2500 gold."

[Aegis013]

Zareus chats up the blacksmith to learn what he can about the area.

"Cave exploration? That's a pretty good price. Is there anyway I can take this B Rank job?" Zareus asks the bubbly woman upon seeing the new posting.

[Deadguy]

"We don't normally do that, for the safety of the members, but you cleared that last quest in a single day... all by yourself, I feel confident in making an exception.

Can you look into the mirror and I'll add it to your profile?"

She hefted up the mirror to the table. Once you look into it, your profile pulls up like a file on a computer. Before she can upload the quest, something odd happens. Your ranking changes, from C to A. She stares at it for a moment, and taps the side gently, as if trying to jar the glass back.

"Umm... congratulations!? You're my first ever A ranking adventurer. It's kind of a big deal to get to the top, I don't know how you did it so fast, but wow!"


You've gained Rank B! +1500 xp
You've gained Rank A! +2000 xp

[Aegis013]

"Are there any other B or C rank adventurers in this town that I might form a party with? I suspect cooperation will go far in improving the chances of survival and success in clearing out that cave." Zareus inquires with curiosity. It may be within his power to handle alone, though obtaining allies felt like a prudent course of action.

[Deadguy]

"I don't have any adventurers higher than D rank here in Wheaton. Just about everyone that gets that high makes their way to the larger city of Brewton where there's more choices of quests... but I've never seen anything like a cave exploration before. It could go on forever!"

[Aegis013]

"I suppose taking rank D adventurers into a rank B quest could spell disaster. I'll scout out the cave alone first, then determine if additional manpower is required." Zareus commits. He seeks out a quiet room to practice his blade technique, still getting used to the way this body already has the arts soaked through to the marrow.

At dawn, Zareus departs for the cave, making his way quickly and quietly through the forest, using the power of wind to aid in his travel.

Active element: Air, granting +4 initiative and +4 dodge AC via stance

Stealth [roll0]
Survival [roll1] to track my way back to the cave.

[Deadguy]

You easily manage to bypass the grove of spiders again as you make your way to the cave. Outside, the wagon still sits abandoned and empty. The fire that cooked the horse meat has gone out, leaving the meat charred and hardened.

Stepping foot in the cave entrance, you receive another notification on your HUD.

You have discovered a new location! 2000 awarded XP.

The Hole has been marked on your map. Please select a difficulty rating.

[Normal] | [Nightmare] | [Hell]

[Aegis013]

Zareus sees the menu options and wonders to himself "Can this selection be changed later?"

After some consideration, he elects to attempt Nightmare, intending to test his new found power. With that out of the way, he enters the cave.

[Deadguy]

The prompting system seems to respond to your internal dialog with an icon that appears when you move to select the desired difficulty.

Dungeon difficulties can be reset upon exiting and reentering the individual dungeon.

Immediately upon entering the cavern, there is a shallow room roughly 20 by 20 in dimensions. Small torches against the wall provide dim lighting. Snarls and clank of armor alert you to the presence of enemies. Two large wolves and two heavily armored goblin guards are near the far wall close to an exit leading deeper.

Wolf/Goblin Initiative: [roll0]
Zareus Initiative: [roll1]

[Aegis013]

Springing into action, Zareus activates the Earth Element and fires a barrage of acid at the creatures.

Target the wolves first.

Standard: Energy Jolt
[roll0] ranged touch attack
On hit it deals [roll1] acid, [roll2] and requires a DC 17 Fort save or be Sickened for 5 rounds

Swift: Energy Spark, expending 8 animus to create a total of five rays
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]
[roll7]

Dealing Acid damage:
[roll8]
[roll9]
[roll10]
[roll11]
[roll12]

Move: activate Elemental Glyph: Darkness for 20% concealment for 6 rounds

HP: 66
Elemental Flux Stance gives DR 5/adamantine
Darkness Glyph: 20% concealment, 6 rounds remaining

[Deadguy]

The explosion of acid all but melts one of the wolves. Unfortunately, it takes all of but 1 of rays of energy to do so. The last ray strikes the second wolf, but does not kill it. The other wolf and two goblins move to surround you. The goblins both carry swords and shields and are in heavy armor.


Wolf (-17 hp) - Bite: 1d20+9
- Miss Chance (low) [roll0]
- Damage: [roll1]

Goblin 1 - Sword: [roll]1d20+11[roll]
- Miss Chance (low) [roll2]
- Damage: [roll3]

Goblin 2 - Sword: [roll]1d20+11[roll]
- Miss Chance (low) [roll4]
- Damage: [roll5]

You may act.

[Aegis013]

Zareus swings with his weapons against the Wolf splashing acid from the blades.

Full attack:
[roll0]
[roll1]

Dealing
[roll2] plus [roll3] acid
[roll4] plus [roll5] acid

Swift: Minute Hand
[roll6]

Dealing
[roll7] plus [roll8] acid

60 HP remaining (assuming their weapons aren't adamantine)
DR 5/adamantine
20% concealment for 4 rounds

4 animus

[Deadguy]

The second wolf goes down with a whimper and snarl. Your sword is unable to penetrate the heavy armor of the goblin to follow up, however.

The two goblins continue their attack, shifting slightly to flank confident in their defenses despite their wolf allies having fallen.


Goblin 1 - Sword: [roll0]
- Miss Chance (low) [roll1]
- Damage: [roll2]

Goblin 2 - Sword: [roll3]
- Miss Chance (low) [roll4]
- Damage: [roll5]


You may act.

[Aegis013]

Zareus evades one goblin as the other grazes him. He initiates Spark Strike against one of the goblins.

[roll0] to hit
On a 28+ [roll1] to confirm

On hit it deals
[roll2] plus [roll3] acid, plus [roll4] acid, expending 1 animus

57 HP remaining (assuming their weapons aren't adamantine)
DR 5/adamantine
20% concealment for 3 rounds

5 animus

[Deadguy]

The goblin shrieks in anger as its skin is sizzled by the acid attack. Still it seems more than healthy enough to continue its attacks as they both swing their swords in a concerted effort to drive you, the invader, from their home.


Goblin 1 (-15 hp) - Sword: [roll0]
- Miss Chance (low) [roll1]
- Damage: [roll2]

Goblin 2 - Sword: [roll3]
- Miss Chance (low) [roll4]
- Damage: [roll5]

[Aegis013]

Zareus again avoids one goblin, while being grazed by the other and initiates Variable Flux against the injured goblin.

Standard [roll0]
On 28+ [roll1] to confirm

On hit
[roll2] plus [roll3] acid and DC 16 Will Save or be Sickened 1 round
On crit it deals [roll4] more


54 HP remaining (assuming their weapons aren't adamantine)
DR 5/adamantine
20% concealment for 2 rounds

6 animus

[Deadguy]

The wounded goblin is bloodied and on its last leg, yet it refuses to fall back from the battle. It retches over the armor, succumbing to your attack, swinging its sword with far less strength.

The other continues to expertly carve away at your defenses, though it is quickly growing frustrated by it's sneering expression.


Goblin 1 (-31 hp) - Sword: [roll0]
- Miss Chance (low) [roll1]
- Damage: [roll2]

Goblin 2 - Sword: [roll3]
- Miss Chance (low) [roll4]
- Damage: [roll5]


You may go.

[Aegis013]

Zareus steps back, summoning another barrage of acid rays.

Standard: Energy Jolt
Swift: Energy Spark, expending 6 animus for three additional rays

5ft step back
ranged touch attacks

[roll0] dealing [roll1] acid - if this one hits it deals another d6 damage next turn, and requires a DC 17 Fort save or be Sickened for 5 rounds.
[roll2] dealing [roll3] acid
[roll4] dealing [roll5] acid
[roll6] dealing [roll7] acid
[roll8] dealing [roll9] acid




51 HP remaining (assuming their weapons aren't adamantine)
DR 5/adamantine
20% concealment for 1 rounds

2 animus

[Deadguy]

The final goblin all but melted into a puddle of acid, the clank of the armor falling to the ground resounded in the cavern. Then nothing. There was a stillness in the room.

Combat complete. 6000 xp awarded.

Loot:
masterwork longsword (2)
+1 scale armor (2)
heavy steel shield (2)
1200 gold

[Aegis013]

Zareus shifts to the Fire element, causing his metabolism to speed up enough for him to glow. He meditates for a minute, allowing his vitality to return. Once that is complete, he shifts back to Earth and carefully creeps deeper into the cave.

Free, change to Fire, Elemental Flux Stance now gives Fast Healing 1.

Stealth [roll0]

[Deadguy]

Moving stealthily, you cross the threshold of the room, which leads to a tunnel of rough hewn stone approximately 30 feet long and completely dark. As you approach the end of the hall, you feel a click under your foot. The hall lights up as the roar of fire fills the air. A ball of fire flies down the hall from the end and explodes at the center, catching you inside the inferno.

[roll0] Fire Damage: Reflex dc 14 for 1/2

[Aegis013]

[roll0]

After doing his best to avoid the brunt of the fireball, if nothing else seems to be immediately occuring, Zareus shifts back to Fire and heals the damage he's taken before proceeding as before.

[Deadguy]

You get to the end of the tunnel without further triggering of traps. The tunnel splits left and right. The right way has a more finished appearance, with smoother floors and walls and a closed door approximately 20 ft away. The left, in comparison, is dirt floors and rough walls. It slopes down slightly and gets progressively narrower without any real end in sight.

[Aegis013]

Looking at the claustrophobia inducing dirt tunnel, Zareus turns and goes to the door. He listens before attempting to open it.

[Deadguy]

You hear several low scratchy voices through the door. It definitely sounds like goblins from the language they speak. When you check the door, it is locked.

[Aegis013]

Zareus melts through the door's lock or hinges as necessary by splashing acid on it, kicking it down once it's sufficiently weakened. There's no chance he'll surprise the goblins this way, but that's an acceptable cost.

[roll0]

[Deadguy]

The door lock indeed crumbles. You kick the heavy oak door in and are met with screeching yells and shouts of surprise. Two axe-carrying goblins pause from what seems to be a dispute to stare at you.


https://cdn.paizo.com/image/content/Blog/102319_Zusgut.jpg

A goblin with a crown and heavy armor sits in a makeshift throne made out of the bench seat of a wagon. There is a robed goblin next to the throne, while two more goblins with bows are standing guard at the back wall.

Upon your entry, the crowned goblin yells and points a clawed finger toward you.

Goblin Initiative: [roll0]

[Aegis013]

Zareus unleashes his acidic fury, targeting the robed goblin first, followed by the king.

Move: Elemental Glyph: Darkness - 20% concealment for 6 rounds

Standard: Energy Jolt
[roll0] Ranged Touch attack, critical threat. If a 12 confirms on Touch, 15 extra acid damage.

On hit it deals [roll1] acid, [roll2] acid next turn, and requires a DC 17 Fort save vs. Sickened for 5 rounds.

Swift: Energy Spark, expending 8 animus for 5 total acid rays
[roll3] on hit it deals [roll4]
[roll5] on hit it deals [roll6]
[roll7] on hit it deals [roll8]
[roll9] on hit it deals [roll10]
[roll11] on hit it deals [roll12]

If any are crit threat (nat 20 only)
[roll13] on hit it deals [roll14]
[roll15] on hit it deals [roll16]
[roll17] on hit it deals [roll18]
[roll19] on hit it deals [roll20]
[roll21] on hit it deals [roll22]
[roll23] on hit it deals [roll24]


HP: 66
AC: 18 (+2 vs magic), DR 5/adamantine
F: 5, R: 5, W: 9 (+2 vs magic and use Counter Inner Sense for +2 on first save needed)
20% concealment 6 rounds

2 animus

Maneuvers:
Next round [roll25] Spark Strike
Following: [roll26] Variable Flux
Following: Disturbing Blow

[Deadguy]

The priest stood no chance. The explosion of acid simply melted him into a puddle of goop. The 'king' took the remain acidic rays to his person as stoically as a dwarf might.

The king stood and pulled a great sword, charging in. The two axe-wielding goblins cackled maniacally and followed suit, while the guards drew their longbows and released crooked arrows in your direction.


King - charge: [roll0]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll1]
- damage: [roll2]

Raider 1 - charge: [roll3]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll4]
- damage: [roll5]

Raider 2 - charge: [roll6]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll7]
- damage: [roll8]

Archer 1 - shot: [roll9]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll10]
- damage: [roll11]

Archer 2 - shot: [roll12]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll13]
- damage: [roll14]

[Aegis013]

Zareus withdraws, the brutal beating from the goblins putting the level of danger into perspective.

Withdraw action, retreating into the prior hallway. Withdrawing doesn't provoke when leaving the square you started in.


HP: 34
AC: 18 (+2 vs magic), DR 5/adamantine
F: 5, R: 5, W: 9 (+2 vs magic and use Counter Inner Sense for +2 on first save needed)
20% concealment 5 rounds

3 animus

Maneuvers:
Granted: Spark Strike
Next round: Variable Flux
Following: Disturbing Blow

[Deadguy]

Only a single axe-wielding goblin, lost in his fury, chases you into the hallway. One of the bowman can also still see you through the open door. The 'king' laughed maniacally, but did little else but sit back down on his makeshift throne.


Raider 1 - charge: [roll0]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll1]
- damage: [roll2]

Archer 2 - shot: [roll3]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll4]
- damage: [roll5]

[Aegis013]

Zareus manages to avoid both attacks and moves to take down the fury-engulfed axe wielding goblin, bringing one of his blades down with a splash of acid.

Standard: Spark Strike
[roll0]

On hit it deals [roll1] plus [roll2] and [roll3] acid, spending 1 animus

on a 28 [roll4] to confirm for [roll5] more damage.


HP: 34
AC: 18 (+2 vs magic), DR 5/adamantine
F: 5, R: 5, W: 9 (+2 vs magic and use Counter Inner Sense for +2 on first save needed)
20% concealment 4 rounds

4 animus

Maneuvers:
Granted: Spark Strike
Granted: Variable Flux
Next: Disturbing Blow

[Deadguy]

The acid melts parts of the goblin's skin, but his rage kept him in the fight. The archer continued to fire passed his ally to target you from a safe distance.


Raider 1 (-24 hp) - Attack: [roll0]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll1]
- damage: [roll2]

Archer 2 - shot: [roll3]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll4]
- damage: [roll5]

[Aegis013]

Zareus continues to try to finish off the axe wielding goblin.

Variable Flux
[roll0]
On hit it deals [roll1] plus [roll2] acid and requires a DC 16 Will save or be Sickened for 1 round

HP: 32
AC: 18 (+2 vs magic), DR 5/adamantine
F: 5, R: 5, W: 9 (+2 vs magic and use Counter Inner Sense for +2 on first save needed)
20% concealment 3 rounds

6 animus

Maneuvers:
Granted: Spark Strike
Granted: Variable Flux
Granted: Disturbing Blow
Next round: maneuvers reset

[Deadguy]

Your attack fails to connect with the goblin.

Both it, and the archer continue to attempt to drive you back through attacks.


Raider 1 (-24 hp) - Attack: [roll0]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll1]
- damage: [roll2]

Archer 2 - shot: [roll3]
Conceal (low - miss): [roll4]
- damage: [roll5]

[Aegis013]

Zareus risks moving past the axe goblin to get into range of both goblins and unleashes acidic fury.

Move: position self between both goblins

Standard: Energy Jolt, prioritize the archer goblin
[roll0] ranged touch attack
On hit it deals
[roll1] plus [roll2] the following round and requires a Fort save DC 17 vs Sickened for 5 rounds.

Swift: Energy Spark, expending 6 animus for 4 total rays
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]

On hit deals
[roll7]
[roll8]
[roll9]
[roll10]

On 28s
To confirm:
[roll11]
[roll12]
[roll13]
[roll14]
[roll15]

For an extra:
[roll16] plus [roll17] next round
[roll18]
[roll19]
[roll20]
[roll21]



HP: 24
AC: 18 (+2 vs magic), DR 5/adamantine
F: 5, R: 5, W: 9 (+2 vs magic and use Counter Inner Sense for +2 on first save needed)
20% concealment 1 rounds

2 animus

Maneuvers:
Next round [roll22] Variable Flux
Following [roll23] Spark Strike
Third round Disturbing Blow