Raam: The City of Anarchy IC

[RandomWombat]

Greven conveyed to the "Torso," "Did you see where the salt giant came from before he headed south? Did he seem in service or another stray?"

Jiro, however, is fascinated by the giant salt man.

"A giant salt man. That is interesting. But how do you know this salt man is an enemy? What did he do to you?"

Mention of the giant salt man causes Faldar to step up to the conversation. "A giant saltman? That sounds like it could be a big problem, both for ourselves and the city. When you saw it, was it aggressive to you at all? Was it capable of speech? Mar Ravoni, this sounds like magical trouble. This is more your domain than mine. Do you have the means to deal with this kind of thing? Or at least heard of it before?"

"Well, I... don't really know. There were some folks just out gathering water... here at the fountain earlier today. Or maybe... was it yesterday? And the salt man... he chased them away. ...Right through there," one of Torso's arm stubs points towards the ruined building nearby.

Qoheleth remained vigilant, but asked, "Where is this artificer?".

Qaba continues to study the man and the Thri-kreen.

"How can we help the two of you? Who else is working for you?"

"Well... it's just the two of us right now," he admits, licking his lips and clearing his throat. "We're waiting for an appointment to speak with... ah, what was his name? ...Dell! Yes. Dell Conagher, a professor... here at this academy. He is the artificer."

Zantos is still trying to determine if these two are likely allies or enemies.

"I'm not as interested in a giant salt man as I am in the two of you. Would your army like to join us? Or perhaps we could just be allies. How do you plan to bring Justice to Raam?"

"I would be happy to help... anytime. Anytime but now. Appointment to keep, yes... must be punctual..." the old man rambles, sniffing at the air and looking towards the Psiumarkh gate, hoping to see someone there. "Justice? Justice! Yes! We will... we will defend the innocent. Protect the helpless. Wherever they may be found. And... and find the lady. The masked lady. Have you seen her?"

[Theophilus]

Lazaar Dargeth Dray Defiler Wizard AC: 14 HP: 18/18 PP: 11 PIv: 15 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Lazaar listened to Greven’s insight concerning the salt golem. "Whoever controls those golems gains great power. Power to break the arena."

Greven Zhov Dray Aberrant Mind Sorcerer AC: 15 HP: 7/7 PP: 11 PIv: 11 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Greven implored "Torso," "When is your appointment? Perhaps you would assist us to corral the salt golem after. It would not do well for it to wander aimlessly."

Qoheleth Dray Silt Cleric AC: 17 HP: 15/15 PP: 12 PIv: 11 PIs: 14 Conditions: --- Qoheleth consider this revelation and asked, "How do you communicate with the teacher within the academy?".

[Bobthewizard]

Qaba Elf Ranger 2 AC: 15 HP: 21/21 PP: 14 PIv: 13 PIs: 14 Spell Slots, 1st: 2/2 Conditions: -- Qaba is curious about the last statement made by the Torso. "We have seen many people in masks in this city. Who is this masked lady? How would we know her if we met her?" Spoiler: OOC Show

[Moranica]

	Faldar Lufi Human/Psion (Vitalist) 3 AC: 13 HP: 27/27 PP: 13 PIv: 12 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Speech		Bontar Dwarf/Barbarian 2 AC: 19 HP: 27/27[ PP: 14 PIv: 9 PIs: 12 Conditions: -- Speech		Ptekme Thri-kreen/Rogue 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 13 PIv: 16 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech

Faldar emphatic feelings towards the mutilated man were slowly pushed aside. While the 'torso' wasn't a threat, he seems to be quite mad, and fanatical at that. Hesitant to just accept everything the man said as truth, there was something interesting about the artificer. At least there seems to be some evidence for his academy.

"Ptekme, Zantos, some of you check for traces of the salt golem's passing. I want to be sure about whether he is telling the truth or not about this salt golem."

He then turns to the 'torso'. "Would you allow us to join you on your visit to the artificer?"

[RandomWombat]

"We just... made an appointment by speaking with the owl. The owl said... she said that he would come to the gate in a few hours, because... he is busy with... ah, something," Torso answers. Taking the conversation cues as a direction, Hand starts heading back towards the gate. "You are free to come along... if you'd like."

Along the way, the senile old man tries his best to answer the group's questions. "The masked woman. Yes, she wears a mask. With five blue gems... very important. Very important... we must speak with her, before the servants of the Dark One."


Hanging back from the others, Ptekme takes a look around the fountain and the ruined building. There are indeed bits of salt grains mixed in with the dust and rubble.


The rest of the group comes up to the gate, where they immediately sense a feeling of being watched. The two crystals floating on either side of the gate, as well as the crystals in the eyes of the owl, give off a tangible psionic presence. "You are right... yes. We must stop the villainous salt man from... from keeping all the water for himself. The people must drink!" Torso nods in agreement.

[Moranica]

	Faldar Lufi Human/Psion (Vitalist) 3 AC: 13 HP: 27/27 PP: 13 PIv: 12 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Speech		Bontar Dwarf/Barbarian 2 AC: 19 HP: 27/27[ PP: 14 PIv: 9 PIs: 12 Conditions: -- Speech		Ptekme Thri-kreen/Rogue 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 13 PIv: 16 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech

Assuming that they are being watched, Faldar introduces himself and his entourage.

"Good day, watcher. I am Faldar, a member of House Luvi, and we'd like to speak to you. Possibly, we can help with the salt golem marching about, which is why we decided to tag along with the .. 'Torso'."

[Theophilus]

Greven Zhov Dray Aberrant Mind Sorcerer AC: 15 HP: 7/7 PP: 11 PIv: 11 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Greven adds with an authoritative voice, "I am Emissary Greven, representative of Mar Ravoni of the Prophets. We escort Godric the Unbroken to his appointment with Artificer Dell Conagher. We seek to honor this appointment with the professor of the esteemed Psiumarkh campus."

[Bobthewizard]

Zantos Elf Hexblade 3 AC: 17 HP: 26/26 THP: 0 PP: 11 PIv: 9 PIs: 9 Spell Slots, 2nd: 2/2 Conditions: -- OOC

Jiro Elf Rain Cleric 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 15 PIv: 12 PIs: 13 Eye of Storm: 3/3 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

Qaba Elf Ranger 2 AC: 15 HP: 21/21 PP: 14 PIv: 13 PIs: 14 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

The elves wait in the background while Faldar and Greven try to talk to the psions' crystals. Qaba continues to look around for threats, while Jiro offers to help the Torso and the Hand.

[RandomWombat]

As Faldar and Greven announce themselves, a female voice emanates from the owl figurine above the gate. It's synthesized from sound waves, with a recognizable psionic reverb, rather than being telepathic. "I have heard your Godric. Professor Conagher is nearly finished his work and will be there shortly. Thank you for your patience."


A few minutes after her address, the group can see some figures approaching from one of the campus buildings beyond. The lead man has clean, combed grey hair and is outfitted in bronze equipment. Over his left eye he wears a crystal lens of some kind. Flanking him on either side are two green crystalline constructs in the shape of scorpions, their glowing eyes watching the group before the gate with mechanical coldness. Also accompanying him are two human men with psionic tattoos, wearing what look like uniforms.

"Well I'll be," the man says, as he arrives at the gate and sees the assemblage in front of him. "When the boys told me an armless, legless old man carried around by a 'kreen was askin' after me, I though they were pulling the wool over my eyes."

Hand turns around, so that Torso is facing the man. "Greetings, esteemed professor... I have come to seek your aid. That I may fight for justice once more. Alas, we... no longer have the funds to afford such aid."

Dell lifts up a hand and scratches at the stubble on his chin. "Well, intriguing as your case is, I ain't in any position to go handin' out free treatment in these times we find ourselves in. Might be we can find some alternative arrangement."

[Theophilus]

Greven Zhov Dray Aberrant Mind Sorcerer AC: 15 HP: 7/7 PP: 11 PIv: 11 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Greven spoke cordially to the professor, "His peculiar predicament caught our attention as well. It is a privilege to meet a professor of the esteemed Psiumarkh campus in person. Mar Ravoni finds your academy necessary to bringing about order in these chaotic times. With your assistance, house Lufi could bring about much needed stability."

[Bobthewizard]

Zantos Elf Hexblade 3 AC: 17 HP: 26/26 THP: 0 PP: 11 PIv: 9 PIs: 9 Spell Slots, 2nd: 2/2 Conditions: -- OOC

Jiro Elf Rain Cleric 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 15 PIv: 12 PIs: 13 Eye of Storm: 3/3 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

Qaba Elf Ranger 2 AC: 15 HP: 21/21 PP: 14 PIv: 13 PIs: 14 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

The elves stay back to make sure they are as non-threatening as possible. Zantos looks back and forth following the conversation, but getting a little bored. Jiro and Qaba try to assess the intentions of the artificer and his companions.

[Moranica]

	Faldar Lufi Human/Psion (Vitalist) 3 AC: 13 HP: 27/27 PP: 13 PIv: 12 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Speech		Bontar Dwarf/Barbarian 2 AC: 19 HP: 27/27[ PP: 14 PIv: 9 PIs: 12 Conditions: -- Speech		Ptekme Thri-kreen/Rogue 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 13 PIv: 16 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech

Faldar ponders a bit about the situation. He seems to decide on looking for collaboration in this matter, knowing that it is near impossible to achieve his goals with such a small group.

"Seems you have quite the conundrum here. To pay you het needs to be able to handle himself again, especially in the cities current state. But to get there he needs the treatment. So perhaps it was this mans fortune that we joined him. We could sponsor the man, and organize payment for you. He would then owe us of course an equal favor. Which would need to be returned before embarking on this quest for justice. And like my friend Greven here said. It would be another small step towards a stable and safe Raam. What kind of alternative arrangement do you have in mind?"

[RandomWombat]

"Preciate the flattery, but ye're barkin' up the wrong tree, hoss," the professor tells Greven. "Dean decides any sorta longterm alliances 'n whatnot, and he says we stay neutral fer now. That said, swing things yer direction, maybe he changes his mind." The man tucks his thumbs into his belt and shrugs.

Professor Conagher cracks a smile at Faldar's suggestion. "Well, if you wanna sponsor 'im, feel free. There's been some psions goin' missin' lately, out in the city. Not all ours', but things like this catch our eye, y'know. There's also that big salt clown makin' it a pain to draw water, like you said. So..." He holds up a hand through the bars of the gate. "You do one o' those for me, figure out why psions disappearin' or get rid of the golem, I'll take care o' the old man's prosthesis."

[Moranica]

	Faldar Lufi Human/Psion (Vitalist) 3 AC: 13 HP: 27/27 PP: 13 PIv: 12 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Speech		Bontar Dwarf/Barbarian 2 AC: 19 HP: 27/27[ PP: 14 PIv: 9 PIs: 12 Conditions: -- Speech		Ptekme Thri-kreen/Rogue 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 13 PIv: 16 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech

Making sure to take a mental note on the organisation, Faldar responds.

"Excellent, we'll see what we can do. I guess our goals coincide sufficiently for this to be interesting. A word for your Dean though. Staying neutral doesn't improve the city one bit. And I'm sure he wouldn't like some of these gangs to take over the city. I would love to delve into the subject with him some other time, but just ask him wether he would prefer House Luvi to win, or something like the Korno's Killers. Just something to stimulate his thinking on the matter. We'll be back when the deed is done, of course, but before we leave. Do you offer any other services that we should be aware of?"

At the same time, Ptekme turns to the thri-kreen. "Does Torso have honor? Does his mind accepts others?"

[Theophilus]

Lazaar Dargeth Dray Defiler Wizard AC: 14 HP: 18/18 PP: 11 PIv: 15 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- "Speech."

Greven Zhov Dray Aberrant Mind Sorcerer AC: 15 HP: 7/7 PP: 11 PIv: 11 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech.

Qoheleth Dray Silt Cleric AC: 17 HP: 15/15 PP: 12 PIv: 11 PIs: 14 Conditions: --- "Speech.".

Lazaar listened to the exchange and mind-whispered to Greven, "Note their attire and mannerisms. It may be useful for our efforts elsewhere."

Greven listened to Faldar's response to the professor and answered, "Let it be known the Prophets devoted a great resource in the Mar Ravoni to deter the abduction of the talented. We look forward to the day the Psiumarkh invests itself into the enhancement of its neighboring communities."

Qoheleth watched and waited, mentally preparing for a ghost hunt and a golem chase. The latter seemed more likely to yield fruit, and the prospect of combat loomed large.

[Bobthewizard]

Zantos Elf Hexblade 3 AC: 14 HP: 26/26 THP: 0 PP: 11 PIv: 9 PIs: 9 Spell Slots, 2nd: 2/2 Conditions: -- OOC Zantos is intrigued by the disappearance of the psions. "Please tell us what you know of the missing psions. Who are they? Where did they disappear? That favor might be more difficult to solve since we have no information at this point." Spoiler: OOC Show

Jiro Elf Rain Cleric 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 15 PIv: 12 PIs: 13 Eye of Storm: 3 / 3 Spell Slots, 1st: 2/2 Conditions: -- Jiro, however, is still fascinated by the giant salt man. He tries to remember anything at all he might know about them. "We have tracks for the salt golem. We should start there." Spoiler: OOC Show History/nature for info on salt golems (1d20+4)[24] survival to follow its tracks (1d20+3)[15]

Qaba Elf Ranger 2 AC: 15 HP: 21/21 PP: 14 PIv: 13 PIs: 14 Spell Slots, 1st: 2/2 Conditions: -- Qaba makes an effort to follow the signs of the golem that Ptekme first saw. "Ptekme, which way do you think the golem went?" Spoiler: OOC Show survival to follow the golem's tracks (1d20+4)[24] As a ranger, this should tell him number, size and time passed.

[RandomWombat]

"Bless your hearts... you are good souls," the Torso comments, as the group agrees to help him.

Hand shifts and looks at Ptekme, still seeming a little skittish around the other 'kreen, as if he has rarely been around his own kind. "He is the most truth and justice person that I know," he tries to answer, in broken Thri-Kreen.

The professor professionally glazes over the attempts to persuade him against his mandate without directly shooting them down, and instead answers the group's questions in turn. "Now, I'm not much've a forensic investigator. But most of the disappearances been happening either 'round the north or south ends o' the city. Who or whatever's doin' it don't dare come close to us, and I guess M'ke keeps its territory secure enough nobody's been nabbed over there." The professor nods along to his own explanation, eye closed as he thinks on the details.

"Let me think, you'll want a fresh lead I'll bet. Last fellow of ours' that went missing wanted to go join them hippy-ass Peacebinders down south. Might be them weirdos are behind it, might be they saw somethin'."

Opening his eyes, he shrugs, as if to say that's all he has for leads. Finally, he answers Faldar's other question, "You well know I offer prosthesis. The Psiumarkh also offers its campus as neutral ground fer anybody wants to have a guaranteed civil discussion with one o' their rival groups. Some of our students 'n faculty might be willing to lend clairvoyant talents fer the right price, but if we coulda found who done this with our mind's eyes we'da known already. Mostly good for tracking down persons or objects of interest, but the missing folk are either dead or behind warded walls."

Spoiler: Jiro Knowledge

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Salt golems, like all golems, are minor nature spirits enslaved by an arcanist and bound to an artificial body - though similar constructs are sometimes created by druids, using willing spirits with which they have bargained or persuaded aid.

Some types of golems using enslaved spirits can go berserk when they are too damaged. Salt is one of the more stable materials; salt is often used as a material in wards and bindings on spirits, both natural and undead. So it is a popular choice, above less reliable materials such as clay.

Most golems are highly resistant to magic, and their form cannot be directly altered by magic - Qoheleth's cantrip would not be able to manipulate a golem made of soil. Not that anyone would be mad enough to bind an unwilling spirit into something like packed soil. Some willing golems are susceptible to any enchanting effects that would affect their animating spirit, but enslaved golems are driven by programming that cannot be overridden by charms.

Salt golems in particular have a few notable traits. They are almost completely silent, moving on rolling treads of salt that shift around each other rather than large stomping feet. When the golem is damaged, salt scattering out from the wounds often finds its way into the eyes of its opponents, stinging and blinding them.

Their opponent will be completely unharmed by fire, poison, or psychic attack, and nonmagical weapons will be as effective against it as hitting a brick wall with your sword. A weapon such as Bontar's stone maul may have better fortune putting a dent in the golem.

One ray of light does come to Jiro: golems cannot heal naturally. The golem would need to be repaired, and with no creator or caretakers around any damage it takes will continue to mount until it eventually falls.

Spoiler: Qaba Tracking

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The trail of salt leads through the broken building, curves around a few others, and goes south along the eastern wall of the Psiumarkh campus. One detail that Qoheleth never picked up is that the golem's trail seemed to have hidden more tracks beneath it. Qaba guesses that there were about three human-sized individuals that the golem was chasing.

Qaba can easily maintain following the trail, but may wish to wait for the others rather than wander off alone.

[Bobthewizard]

Zantos Elf Hexblade 3 AC: 17 HP: 26/26 THP: 0 PP: 11 PIv: 9 PIs: 9 Spell Slots, 2nd: 2/2 Conditions: -- OOC

Jiro Elf Rain Cleric 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 15 PIv: 12 PIs: 13 Eye of Storm: 3/3 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

Qaba Elf Ranger 2 AC: 15 HP: 21/21 PP: 14 PIv: 13 PIs: 14 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

Qaba looks to Zantos, holding up a few grains of salt mixed with the dust. "Boss, we don't need clairvoyance to follow this thing. It left obvious tracks. So did the three people it was chasing. If we go this way, we should be able to catch up to it."

Zantos smiles at his friend. "Nice work Qaba. Everyone, shall we go hunt a salt golem."

Jiro starts to rattle off everything he knows about salt golems. Most relevant is the resistance to weapons, which he waits to tell the group until after they have left the psions, "Your maul might be enough, Bontar. And sir, your summoned weapons should work, but otherwise arrows and swords are useless. We'll need to rely on magic and psionics. Fortunately we have an abundance of those."

Spoiler: OOC

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Everyone can read the Jiro spoiler above about salt golems, assuming he just keeps going on about them as we follow the trail

[Theophilus]

Lazaar Dargeth Dray Defiler Wizard AC: 14 HP: 18/18 PP: 11 PIv: 15 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- "Speech."

Greven Zhov Dray Aberrant Mind Sorcerer AC: 15 HP: 7/7 PP: 11 PIv: 11 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech.

Qoheleth Dray Silt Cleric AC: 17 HP: 15/15 PP: 12 PIv: 11 PIs: 14 Conditions: --- "Speech.".

Lazaar listened to the exchange and mind-whispered to Greven, "Let's seek out this salt golem."

Greven answered the professor, "Thank you for the information. We shall see if we can identify the source of the abductions. Until a more prosperous day in Raam, good day."

Qoheleth moved to follow the trackers. He advised, "We should keep our distance from the Golem then, since most weapons will falter against its hide."

[Moranica]

	Faldar Lufi Human/Psion (Vitalist) 3 AC: 13 HP: 27/27 PP: 13 PIv: 12 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Speech		Bontar Dwarf/Barbarian 2 AC: 19 HP: 27/27[ PP: 14 PIv: 9 PIs: 12 Conditions: -- Speech		Ptekme Thri-kreen/Rogue 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 13 PIv: 16 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech

Faldar nods at everyone's suggestions.

"Indeed, going after the salt golem seems like the most directly solvable. Bontar can swing a mean maul, but we better keep the salt golem focused away from Bontar. Perhaps we can rotate fighters, switching them out when they get hit. Dodging could be important here. Lead the way Qaba!"

[RandomWombat]

Their deal forged, the professor retreats once more into the campus grounds, as the group circles around the wall after Qaba. The trail leads them beyond the Psiumarkh, into the disorganized streets of the elven district. Unlike the meticulously blocked and uniform houses of the rest of the city, the elven district is its own beast. The streets twist around buildings seemingly thrown up where there was room - not only sandstone and clay, but tents and ankheg-chitin shanties.

Yet Qaba confirms that the tracks they are tracing are not elves. For one, they are too close together. An elf running from danger would leave huge strides. These seem to pause from time to time, as if to allow the golem to catch up - what kind of fool notion would have them do that?

After more travel, they come into the elven market and hear shouts from deeper in. There are spaces of differently shaded earth beneath which rugs and carpets were once laid in the street, alongside bazaar booths and shops. Places where elves would sell things that they or their clans had scavenged - or, often, stolen - out in the wastes.

Coming upon a loosely fenced in square with fenceposts that at one time were for hitching kanks and other riding beasts, the group finds their quarry in the midst of a chaotic brawl. Among the abandoned booths, and atop some of the buildings, are elven warriors. But not only elves; raiders in Urvus colors are scattered around, one of them lying broken in front of the golem, which is riddled with useless arrows.

An elf is sitting against the fence near where the group enters the scene, unconscious and with a bone handaxe lodged in his gut. Just past him, an Urvus bard is standing on a bazaar table, shouting orders to raiders surrounding a large, elven tavern, using the confusion inflicted by the golem's appearance as cover. On the front of the tavern is a sign that reads 'The Dust in the Wind'.

Seeing the colors on Faldar's pack kank, the bard gets a wicked grin and holds up his arms to the others, shouting, "Reinforcements from House Lufi! Push hard, my boys!"


Standing from pounding its victim into paste, the Salt Golem begins stomping after another of the Urvus raiders, who's gotten into a standoff with an elf.

"Onwards, Hand!" Torso points his stubs at the Salt Golem. "Bring me closer, that I may bite it!"

Spoiler: Event Tracking

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Salt Golem moves.

Everyone goes together, so the party can take their actions and I'll have T&H act after them.

Spoiler: Initiative

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Salt Golem - 18
Bobthewizard - 16.6
Torso & The Hand - 13
Moranica - 12.6
Theophilus - 11.6
Night Runners - 8.7
House Urvus - 8.5

Spoiler: OOC

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Initiative has begun due to combat already being 'on' when they arrive.

As we wanted to try block initiative, I have rolled average for each faction and each player's trio.

[Bobthewizard]

Zantos Elf Hexblade 3 AC: 17 HP: 26/26 THP: 10 PP: 11 PIv: 9 PIs: 9 Spell Slots, 2nd: 2/2 Conditions: -- OOC

Jiro Elf Rain Cleric 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 15 PIv: 12 PIs: 13 Eye of Storm: 3/3 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

Qaba Elf Ranger 2 AC: 15 HP: 21/21 PP: 14 PIv: 13 PIs: 14 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

Zantos isn't quite sure what to make of the scene or whose side we should be on. It's all chaos. He knows we should destroy the golem but isn't sure who will attack us if we try. He looks to his left past the Torso and addresses Faldar, "Well boss, what should we do?"

Jiro stops and mutters a short prayer, looking at Faldar, Bontar and Zantos as he does so, then steps back and draws his bow.

Qaba knows his arrows and axes wouldn't work against the golem, but they should still be effective against the humans and elves. He moves to his right and floats up to the top of the roof. "I'll keep an eye out from up here."

Spoiler: OOC

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Zantos casts Armor of Agathys on himself in preparation.

Jiro casts bless on Zantos, Faldar and Bontar (add 1d4 to all attacks and saves).

Qaba casts Levitate on himself, gets to the top of the building to his right (map left), and continues to concentrate on it so he can move without using another action. He should be on roof but I couldn't leave his token there.

[Moranica]

	Faldar Lufi Human/Psion (Vitalist) 3 AC: 13 HP: 27/27 PP: 13 PIv: 12 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Speech		Bontar Dwarf/Barbarian 2 AC: 19 HP: 27/27[ PP: 14 PIv: 9 PIs: 12 Conditions: -- Speech		Ptekme Thri-kreen/Rogue 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 13 PIv: 16 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech

When they arIve Faldar takes in the scene. He did not expect to see House Urvus here. They could cause a problem. Good news was that the Salt golem was here. He wondered if it was fighting for any of the two groups.

Faldar hesitates for a moment, but snaps out of it when Zantos asks him for direction. the elves we didn't come here to fight them. We are not raiders. They'll take it better from another elf."

Faldar then tells Bontar to wait a moment before engaging the salt golem and for Ptekme to stay close, while walking over to the dying elf. He addresses the Urvus bard.

"Quickly, we must take out the salt golem first. Have your men destroy the golem!
"

Ooc
Faldar uses suggestion on the bars to order his men to attack the golem.
Bontar moves within 40 ft of the golem.
Ptekme stays with Faldar, assuming there's no place to hide near Faldar.

[Theophilus]

Lazaar Dargeth Dray Defiler Wizard AC: 14 HP: 18/18 PP: 11 PIv: 15 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- "Speech."

Greven Zhov Dray Aberrant Mind Sorcerer AC: 15 HP: 7/7 PP: 11 PIv: 11 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech.

Qoheleth Dray Silt Cleric AC: 17 HP: 15/15 PP: 12 PIv: 11 PIs: 14 Conditions: --- "Speech.".

Lazaar commanded Greven, "Subdue the golem. Qoheleth will aide you."

He then arcanely whispered to Qoheleth, “Ward and grant the Grey’s Wisdom to Greven.”

Qoheleth moved to follow Greven as he advanced. The priest invoked the shadow of the Grey and its unfathomable knowledge to protect and bolster the emissary. He then moved back behind the bulk of Bontar. He advised, "If he fails, prepare to defend the emissary."

Greven strode to the fore and drove his mind into the golem’s, commanding, "Heed, servant. Your master has need of you."

A stone pillar adorned in spikes then swallowed the veiled prophet.

Spoiler: OOC

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Lazaar casts message to Qoheleth and shifts the defilement 30ft down toward the nearest wilder.

Greven moves forward, invasive minds as a BA (if the golem understands a language it can reply). After Qoheleth casts Guidance on him, he attempts to command the golem. Either way, casts Minor Illusion to conceal himself.

Qoheleth casts Guidance followed by Sanctuary on Greven (BA. Anyone targeting Greven must make a DC 12 Wis save or choose a new target. If they cannot choose a new target, their spell or attack is wasted). He then moved back the remainder of his movement.

Greven’s charisma (persuasion) if able to cajole the golem into service: (1d20+4)[12] (1d4)[4] Result: 16

[RandomWombat]

The bard clutches the side of his head as Faldar's psychic grasp invades his mind. He fights it off and shakes his head, gritting his teeth in indignation. "What are you doing? Don't attack the golem, we brought it here to help the raid!" Jumping from the table and looking unsure of Faldar's intentions, the bar runs around behind a tent with a squad of Urvus alongside him, moving towards the tavern.

Spoiler: Greven

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As his mind touches the golem's, he feels a writhing, furious presence within, and a more measured, programmed presence. It is like a rabid dog bound within a clockwork shell, moving it towards things that the shell's master has programmed it to attack or guard.

The clockwork shell does not seem to respond to his commands, and he feels the golem lash out at him in what must be some form of language. Its intents and meanings are translated empathically.

"FILTH! FILTH AND DEFILERS! YOU WILL ROT - YOU ALL WILL ROT!"

An elf wearing a symbol of the Wind steps out of the building from the door under Qaba. He pauses, looking over the eclectic group. He points a finger between each of them, looking equally surprised and confused as he pulls out a dagger with his other hand. "Elves, and, and... who are all of you? Are you friend or foe?"


The Night Runners elves do not seem to be taking the situation sitting down. From a tent near the bard's podium, an elf in modest robes steps outside and waves a hand at the marauder just shy of the golem. Fleas and insects begin to swirl around the man, but he remains steadfast, swatting them aside. A few other elves try to take advantage of his distraction to pepper him with arrows that land around his feet.

One of the elves in light clothing runs up and slaps his hands together, producing a shockwave that throws both the marauder and the golem backwards. The elf who the marauder had been squaring off with chases after him, keeping him locked down so he can't escape the golem. The marauder lets loose a battle cry and hacks at the elf brutally with his axes, breaking down his guard. Sensing movement behind him, the marauder ducks just in time for a massive salt arm to swing over his head.


Further away, one of the elves takes notice of something out of view and casts a spell, then retreats into cover inside the other building. A half-elven warrior moves up to the corner the other elf had been looking at and takes a defensive stance.

An elf on the roof turns around and takes aim at something behind her, loosing an arrow that is met with a cry of surprise. Another elf on the ground launches a series of glowing bolts into the alley behind him. He skirts around the bazaar table next to him and looks at the eclectic group approaching. "****, there's a ton more coming!" As he cries out, an axe flies past his head from down the alley.

"Back off, let the golem keep them occupied!" another elf, in gladiatorial attire, orders as he falls back to help another front. A couple more elves run out of the tavern building to help.

As the elves assemble their defense, the more battle cries can be heard from the alley, and the elven sniper on the nearby roof is shoved off, flipping backwards and managing to land on her feet in a crouch. A burst of flame from another raider above singes one of the elves that ran from inside to help.


It appears that more Urvus are coming around the sides of the building, as more elves rush to meet them, and the sound of breaking glass can be heard inside the tavern. There are sounds like roaring wild animals, but Faldar knows from seeing that they are the sounds of Urvus junkies ramming so many substances into their veins that they're driven into a blind fury.

Another elf gets yanked off of a rooftop corner by a lasso of crackling electricity, falling into the fray below.

Spoiler: Event Tracking

Show

Zantos casts Armor of Agathys.
Jiro casts Bless. Using the triple sword icon for Bless, and the lock on Jiro for Concentration.
Qaba uses Levitate to get on top of the building.

Faldar casts Suggestion on Urvus Bard, who passes his Wis save.

Lazaar casts Message.
Qoheleth casts Guidance and Sanctuary on Greven. Used the glowy man icon for Sanctuary.
Greven attempts to communicate with the golem.

Hand moves closer to the salt golem.

Runners Dreamer casts Infestation on Raider Marauder, but he passes his save.
Runners Dreamer casts Entangle on the flanking raiders, ensnaring a Marauder and a Wilder.
Runners Sniper shoots Raider Wilder for 3 damage.
Runners Sniper shoots Raider Marauder, but misses.
Runners Sniper shoots Raider Marauder, but misses.
Runners Sniper shoots Raider Wilder, critically hitting for 11 damage and Bloodying him.
Half-elf Warrior takes the Dodge action.
Half-elf Warrior attacks Raider Marauder for 4 damage.
Runners Wilder casts Thunderwave on Raider Marauder and Salt Golem, dealing 10 thunder damage and knocking them back 10 feet. Marauder is left Bloodied.
Runners Wilder casts Magic Missile on Raider Berserker, dealing 12 force damage.
Elven Gladiator takes the Dodge action.
Elven Gladiator takes the Dodge action.
Runners Elf flings a sling at Raider Marauder, but misses.
Runners Elf flings a sling at Raider Marauder, dealing 3 damage.
Runners Elf flings a sling at Raider Marauder, dealing 4 damage.

Raider Marauder Rages and hacks at Elven Gladiator for 11 damage.
Raider Marauder Rages and hacks at Half-elf Warrior for 8 damage.
Raider Marauder Rages and injects himself with Berserk, gaining Double Rage and 1 psychic damage.
Raider Marauder Rages and breaks free of Entanglement.
Raider Marauder Rages and throws a handaxe at Runners Wilder, but misses.
Raider Wilder casts Gust on Runners Sniper, knocking her off the roof for 7 falling damage.
Raider Wilder casts Firebolt on Runners Elf, dealing 6 fire damage and Bloodied.
Raider Wilder breaks free of Entanglement.
Raider Wilder casts Frostbite on Half-Elf Warrior, dealing 4 cold damage and giving disadvantage on her next attack.
Raider Wilder jumps and casts Lightning Lure, yanking Runners Sniper off of the roof for 4 falling damage and 5 lightning damage.
Earth Cleric Mold Earths a hole in the wall.

A lot of things happen out of sight.

Salt Golem swings at Raider Marauder, but misses.

It is now the party's actions again.

Spoiler: Initiative

Show

Salt Golem - 18
Bobthewizard - 16.6
Torso & The Hand - 13
Moranica - 12.6
Theophilus - 11.6
Night Runners - 8.7
House Urvus - 8.5

[Bobthewizard]

Zantos Elf Hexblade 3 AC: 17 HP: 26/26 THP: 10 PP: 11 PIv: 9 PIs: 9 Spell Slots, 2nd: 1/2 Conditions: -- OOC

Jiro Elf Rain Cleric 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 15 PIv: 12 PIs: 13 Eye of Storm: 3/3 Spell Slots: 1st: 1/2 Conditions: --

Qaba Elf Ranger 2 AC: 15 HP: 21/21 PP: 14 PIv: 13 PIs: 14 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

Jiro glides confidently forward and announces in elvish in a loud commanding voice. "We are not with House Urvus! We came only to hunt the golem! Elves, know that the Prophets and House Lufi will help you fight off these illegal raiders!" He then shoots an arrow at the Raider Beserker.

Zantos yells up to Qaba, "Cover me!". He lets out an elven war cry and charges the Raiders in the alley. Summoning a scimitar and attacking the Raider Beserker with it.

Seeing the Raiders on the roof, Qaba moves to the middle of the roof of his building, firing an arrow at the closest Raider Wilder on the roof south of him. "Sorry, boss. There's two up here." After shooting, he drops prone to make himself a more difficult target.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Jiro shortbow (1d20+5)[24] for (1d6+3)[4] damage

Zantos scimitar (1d20+7)[23] + bless (1d4)[2] for (1d8+4)[11] damage

Qaba longbow (1d20+6)[26] for (1d8+4)[6] damage + 8 from crit equals 14 He moves 1 space south and 3 spaces west, then drops prone.

[Moranica]

	Faldar Lufi Human/Psion (Vitalist) 3 AC: 13 HP: 27/27 PP: 13 PIv: 12 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Speech		Bontar Dwarf/Barbarian 2 AC: 19 HP: 27/27[ PP: 14 PIv: 9 PIs: 12 Conditions: -- Speech		Ptekme Thri-kreen/Rogue 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 13 PIv: 16 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech

The suggestion obviously failed as the bard denounced his interest in stopping the golem. "Sorry, but our objective is stopping that golem, make sure you don't interfere then." Faldar told the bard.

Faldar then gives Bontar the signal to engage the golem. Ptekme heads in first, getting ready to distract the golem, while Bontar enters into his battle minded fury and starts hammering away at the salt golem.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Faldar uses spare the dying on the dying elf before moving closer to the golem.
Ptekme moves next to the golem, dodging.
Bontar rages and attacks the golem using the marauder as an distraction.
Advantage Attack plus damage - (1d20+4)[14] or (1d20+4)[6] - (2d6+5)[12] bludgeoning damage
Extra damage on crit - (2d6)[9]

[Theophilus]

Lazaar Dargeth Dray Defiler Wizard AC: 14 HP: 18/18 PP: 11 PIv: 15 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- "Speech."

Greven Zhov Dray Aberrant Mind Sorcerer AC: 15 HP: 7/7 PP: 11 PIv: 11 PIs: 13 Conditions: -- Speech.

Qoheleth Dray Silt Cleric AC: 17 HP: 15/15 PP: 12 PIv: 11 PIs: 14 Conditions: --- "Speech.".

Lazaar surveyed the scene and noted the golem remained in its beserk state.

Greven mind whispered to the golem, "A waste."

The prophet unleashed a psychic assault on the construct's internal mechanisms, seeking to break them down.

Qoheleth hears Greven invoke his wilder powers and moves to protect the path for Lazaar. He calls to his master, "Negotiations seem to have failed."

Lazaar advanced behind the screen of warriors. The vicar then raised a dirt barricade before the defiler, generating a pit in front of that to break arrows and assaults from the front. The mage then intoned words of power. A painfully high pitch resonates around the construct.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Greven casts mind sliver as a BA (ending sanctuary) utilizing his wild talent. He then casts Dissonant Whispers if the golem seems affected by psychic damage. If not affected by psychic energy, he casts Chill touch.
--Mind Sliver: DC 13 Int save or take (1d6)[4] psychic damage
--Dissonant Whispers: DC 13 Wis save or take (3d6)[15] psychic damage. It then uses its reaction to move in the other opposite direction on a fail (which would provoke OAs from Ptemke and Bontar). On a save, it takes half damage and does not move.
--Chill Touch: (1d20+5)[22] to hit, (1d8)[7] necrotic damage (crit: (1d8)[6] ) and cannot regain health until Greven's next turn.

Qoheleth moves to screen his master from the flank, (specifically moving in line of the Wind cleric). He casts Mold Earth to make a 5' high square of earth in front of Lazaar, with a 5' deep square in front of it (golden square is mound; mauve square is hole).

Lazaar moves behind the screen of warriors and earth, casting Shatter on the construct. It has disadvantage on the save. DC 13 Con save. Fail, takes (3d8)[21] thunder damage, or half on a save. Center point behind Construct to also target raider and elven gladiator (yellow square on map).
--Distant/Sicken Raze to encompass hostiles and their spaces (grey square on map).

Edit: If the construct had moved due to Dissonant Whispers, the spell is centered to affect the construct and as many alternative targets. The defiling square would remain (unless no enemies remain in this space due to initiative; then the square shifts to affect the most foes without affecting friendlies).

[RandomWombat]

Jiro steps forward and looses an arrow at the advancing hulk of a man in the alley, who barely seems to notice as it grazes his cheek. When Zantos closes in to slash him with a sword, however, the long cut grabs his attention.

The two elves behind him move into cover and join in. The archer is still disoriented from the fall and misses her shot, but a gob of acid from the wilder splashes across the berserker, visibly causing him sizzling agony. Zantos' words and actions seem to have convinced the wind cleric, who moves over and lays a hand on the back of the sniper, restoring her poise.

The marauder next to Zantos winds up and drives an axe into him - only to find it stopped by a freezing barrier. With a roar of defiance, he lifts his second axe and pounds it into the same spot, shattering through the barrier, but there is little momentum left and Zantos is left with little more than a minor cut. The man's eyes bulge as the shock of sudden cold hits his overheating, sun- and drug-addled body, and he collapses in the dirt.

Zantos is far from safe, however. The berserker hefts a datchi club and slams it into the wall behind Zantos, who is barely able to sidestep out of the way. He clumsily tries to catch Zantos on the backswing, but doesn't connect.


On the rooftops above, Qaba lands a devastating shot right in one of the wilders' thighs, causing him to gasp and stumble. It looks like it could very well be an artery shot, only the arrow's shaft keeping him from bleeding out.

A few more arrows fly from elsewhere. One of them misses a wilder due to the cover from the lip of the roof, but another lands a solid hit, embedding in the other wild psion. An elf on the tavern rooftop seems to give Qaba a nod of acknowledgement.

The wilders turn to Qaba and move closer, firing balls of flame at him as they move. The flame flies past, one of them close enough to singe the elf's thin eyebrows.


Ptekme and Bontar run up to the golem, taking up positions to keep it from wandering away. Bontar's maul spins around and slaps against its form, which feels a lot like hitting a sandbag, but louder. He isn't quite able to push it through and knock parts of its crystalline body away, leaving him rather awkwardly holding his maul against it as it turns around.

Gathering a sharp thorn in his mind, Greven thrusts it at the golem. But the arcane mechanisms of its shell simply absorb the energy before it can reach the spirit within. Instead he summons a spectral hand and grasps the golem's body, causing it to decay. Crystals fall apart into dust, blowing away in the wind.

Falder reaches out to the dying elf and psionically puts him in a healing coma, to prevent him from bleeding out and dying. Lazaar strides forward past him, the earth in front of him swelling into a makeshift wall. The prophet's magic saps the earth around the golem, gathering in the center before violently exploding outwards in a concussive boom that could be heard for blocks. Bits of salt crystal go flying through the air. Ptekme is able to cover his face in time, but it sprays Bontar in the eyes, causing a stinging pain and blinding him.

Spoiler: Greven

Show

Through the still open connection, Greven can feel the golem's internal spirit harden from a frenzy into a cold, pinpoint hatred. As it turns to look at Lazaar, its threat assessment programming and the spirit's will seem to synchronize in one, unified direction.

D E F I L E R

Hand runs up next to Ptekme, swinging to punch the golem. His fist does nothing, but then shines with a bright light that erupts from within. This time Ptekme is not so lucky, and his compound eyes are covered by salt spray.

Hand spins around, and Torso actually lunges out to take a bite of the golem. An even more brilliant explosion erupts inside it, stinging Torso's eyes as he spits the salt out of his mouth. "Bleh, ugh, that's awful! Aaaaargh!"

The elf that emerged from the tent goes to his fellow, nearly fallen over, and picks him up. Soft green light flows from him into the wounds, causing them to practically vanish. He speaks the the gladiator in elven, and he nods, turning to go help another front. The elven healer retreats back inside, away from the crossfire.

From the other side of the golem, another elf chucks a gob of acid into its mass, sizzling and breaking down bits of salt. But the golem has eyes only for Lazaar, now. One arm bats Brontar away casually, as one might an annoying pest, and the shattering of bone can be heard.


At the southwest flank, the elf inside the building moves out to send a healing light into one of his fellows, and a swarm of stinging insects at one of his foes. The man staggers back, swiping at the air, and the half-elf follows him. She tries to stab with her shortsword, but the cold spell has left her shaky. The slingers behind her do their best, but can't seem to land a solid shot.

A gladiator steps up next to her, but his blow is thwarted by a parry from the marauder's axe, catching it and dragging it off course. The marauder focuses on the already injured half-elf, digging into her with one of his axes as bolts of fire fly out past their little corner.


At the southeast flank, the gladiator who'd been in the Shatter spell arrives, pulling a dagger and tossing it at the nearest marauder. The blade narrowly misses, in the man's frenzied movements. The fallen archer pulls a dagger from his thigh and stabs at his saboteur's leg, but his hand is kicked away as he gets to his feet.

The elves struggle against the marauders, who seem to feel no pain even as they break through the half-elf's defenses and hack her to pieces with their wild axes.

Things only get worse for the elves when more Urvus, accompanied by the bard, arrive from the north flank. A berserker's club quickly knocks their slinger out of the fight without any ceremony or hesitation. A bolt of light streaks out, hitting the gladiator in the back and marking him for death. Almost unseen, a tiny dart needles its way into his skin, its insidious poison causing him to waver and wobble on his feet.

Spoiler: Event Tracking

Show

Jiro shoots the Raider Berserker, dealing 2 damage after resistance.
Zantos slashes the Raider Berserker, dealing 6 damage after resistance, Bloodying him.
Qaba shoots Raider Wilder for 14 damage crit, Bloodying him.

Faldar Stabilizes the Runners Wilder.
Ptekme takes the Dodge action.
Bontar strikes the Salt Golem, but fails to penetrate its AC.

Greven casts Mind Sliver, but finds that the golem is immune to psychic damage.
Greven casts Chill Touch, dealing 7 necrotic damage.
Qoheleth casts Mold Earth to make some cover.
Lazaar casts Shatter, dealing 21 thunder damage to the Salt Golem, Raider Marauder, and Elven Gladiator. Only the Marauder fails his save, and the other two take 10 thunder damage. The Marauder goes down, while the elf is Bloodied.
Salt Golem's Salt Spray blinds Bontar for 2 rounds, while Ptekme passes his save.

Hand punches the golem for 16 radiant damage. Ptekme is blinded for 3 rounds by the salt, this time.
Torso bites the golem for 19 radiant damage, and blinds himself for 2 rounds.

Runners Sniper takes aim and shoots at Raider Berserker, but misses.
Runners Wilder casts Acid Splash on Raider Berserker and Raider Marauder. Berserker fails his save and takes 4 acid damage.
Wind Cleric casts Cure Wounds, healing Runners Sniper for 9.

Runners Dreamer casts Cure Wounds and something else, restoring Elven Gladiator for 15 hit points and out of Bloodied.
Elven Gladiator moves away and throws a dagger at Raider Marauder, dealing 3 damage.
Runners Wilder casts Acid Splash on Salt Golem, dealing 5 acid damage.

Runners Dreamer casts Infestation on Raider Marauder, dealing 3 poison damage and causing him to move southwest. A Runners Elf is healed for 4, removing Bloodied.
Half-Elf Warrior attacks Raider Marauder, but misses due to Frostbite.
Runners Elves sling at Raider Marauder for 1 damage total.
Elven Gladiator attacks Raider Marauder, but misses.
Runners Sniper shoots at Raider Wilder, but misses.
Runners Sniper shoots at Raider Wilder, dealing 10 damage and Bloodying him.

Runners Sniper draws a dagger and stabs at Raider Wilder, but misses.
Runners Elf slings at Raider Marauder for 3 damage crit.
Half-Elf Warrior stabs at Raider Marauder, but misses.
Wind Cleric casts Cure Wounds, healing Half-Elf Warrior for 9.

Things happen out of view.

Raider Marauder attacks Zantos for 5 damage, then again for a 10 damage crit. The Armor backlash knocks him out.
Raider Berserker Reckless Attacks Zantos for 7 damage. He attacks again, but misses.
Raider Wilders shoot two Firebolts at Qaba, one of them hits for 7 damage.

Raider Wilders shoot two Firebolts at Half-Elf Warrior, but both miss.
Raider Marauder hacks at Half-Elf Warrior for 9 damage, then recovers 5 with his Second Wind. She is now Bloodied, while he is not.

Raider Marauder hacks at Half-Elf Warrior for 11 damage, then recovers 9 with his Second Wind. She is now Bloodied.
Raider Marauder hacks at Half-Elf Warrior for 7 damage.
Raider Wilder casts Frostbite on Runners Sniper, but is resisted.
Raider Berserker Reckless Attacks Runners Elf for 15 damage, an immediate KO.
Earth Cleric casts Guiding Bolt on Elven Gladiator, dealing 7 radiant damage and marking him, he is now Bloodied.
Raider Marauder injects himself with Berserk, taking 6 psychic damage.
Urvus Bard darts Elven Gladiator for 1 damage and 7 poison damage.

Things happen out of view.

Salt Golem moves away, provoking from Hand, who misses.
Salt Golem bitchslaps Bontar for a 45 damage critical hit, which is thankfully reduced to 22 by rage resistance. He is Bloodied and very nearly bodied.

Spoiler: Initiative

Show

Salt Golem - 18
Bobthewizard - 16.6
Torso & The Hand - 13
Moranica - 12.6
Theophilus - 11.6
Night Runners - 8.7
House Urvus - 8.5

[Bobthewizard]

Zantos Elf Hexblade 3 AC: 17 HP: 14/26 THP: 0 PP: 11 PIv: 9 PIs: 9 Spell Slots, 2nd: 1/2 Conditions: -- OOC

Jiro Elf Rain Cleric 1 AC: 17 HP: 10/10 PP: 15 PIv: 12 PIs: 13 Eye of Storm: 3/3 Spell Slots: 1st: 1/2 Conditions: --

Qaba Elf Ranger 2 AC: 15 HP: 14/21 PP: 14 PIv: 13 PIs: 14 Spell Slots: 1st: 2/2 Conditions: --

Unable to get a clear shot at the Berserker, Jiro raises his bow a little higher and shoots the Wilder on the roof, before moving away, with a goal of getting to Bontar as soon as possible. "Everyone, stay away from the Golem. Let's attack it with magic from range. Bontar, make your way back to me if you can."

Zantos swings his scimitar, again attacking the Raider Beserker.

Qaba stands up to shoot at the Wilder again, before moving back slightly along the roof of his building. After moving, he again drops prone to make himself a more difficult target.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Jiro shortbow (1d20+5)[9] for (1d6+3)[7] damage

Zantos scimitar (1d20+7)[9] + bless (1d4)[1] for (1d8+5)[12] damage

Qaba longbow (1d20+8)[13] for (1d8+4)[12] damage. He moves 2 spaces north, then drops prone, so they should have disadvantage with ranged attacks.