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  1. - Top - End - #61
    Titan in the Playground
     
    Farmerbink's Avatar

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Finally stirred from obliviousness when the chimera bursts free of its cage, Frederick quickly assesses the situation. He steps forward, drawing his blade and laying about the thieves without hesitation. "Stand down and you may receive clemency!"

    Spoiler: Frederick, round 2
    Show
    Frederick Strongarm
    M LG Half-Orc Paladin 6 (VMC Barbarian), Level 7, Init 1, HP 60/60, Speed 20
    AC 22, Touch 11, Flat-footed 24, CMD 21, Fort 9, Ref 5, Will 7*, CMB +10/+5, Base Attack Bonus 6/1, Power Points -/0
    Magic Falchion +1 +12/+7 (2d4+7, 18-20/x2)
    Warhammer +11/+6 (1d8+4, x3)
    MW Composite Longbow (+3 str) (40 standard arrows) +8 (1d8+3, x3)
    Full Plate +1, Heavy Steel Shield (+10 Armor, +2 Shield, +1 Natural, +1 Deflect)
    Abilities Str 19, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 10, Wis 8, Cha 16
    Condition Irrepressible: Cha isntead of Wis for charm/compulsion will saves
    Power Attack
    Uncanny Dodge
    Lay on Hands: 6/6 (2d6, removes fatigue, disease)
    Smite Evil: 3/3
    Divine Bond: 1/1
    Rage: 8/8
    Grace: 1/1
    Hero's Defiance: 1/1

    Move to S/8 (flanking with Olofire?), drawing ye olde sward.
    Make whammy
    (1d20+12)[31] falchion (power attack/flanking)
    (1d20+12)[26] CC (30+, x2)
    (2d4+13)[19] damage ((Retroactively nonlethal damage as per convo with DarkOne))
    (2d4+13)[16] crit bonus

  2. - Top - End - #62
    Firbolg in the Playground
     
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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    The roar of the escaped monster instantly takes Marzena's attention away from the thieves. Focus... Bitterly, she mutters under her breath, as she hustles forward: "Didn't want to be among those facing it in the arena, amirite, girl? Now you get to face it in the street! Talk about famous last words..." She passes by one of the thieves, hoping the scoundrel is too busy to gratify her with a slash of his knife for her trouble, and comes to face the beast, with only the archon as protection. Good thinking and fast spell, Lydia... She sniffs, and her piercing eyes narrow as she looks the chimera in the... er... in one of its faces, for lack of a better word. Time for bad luck!

    She turns to Jan, seeing her other companions busy saving lives and catching thieves. "Maybe you can try to cast that again, I have a hunch it may work this time!"

    Spoiler
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    Move to R11
    Evil Eye hex on the chimera. -2 to saves for 9 rounds, Will DC19 reduces this to 1 round

    Spoiler: stats
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    Marzena Human (F) Cartomancer Witch 7 CG HP 44 / 44 Speed ft Init 3 AC 16 Fort 5 Ref 7 Will 9 CMB +2 BAB 3 Harrow Card 5 (1d4+2, 20/x2)
    Dagger 2 (1d4-1, 19/x2) Str 8 (-1) Dex 14 (2) Con 12 (1) Wis 12 (1) Int 20 (6) Cha 10 (0)
    Powers per day: Fly 7/7 minutes, Levitate 1/1, Augury 2/week, Harrowed feat: Draw Harrow card for +2 to 1 check 1/1
    Reference for Harrow deck rolls

  3. - Top - End - #63
    Troll in the Playground
     
    PaladinGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Jan gasps, blanching as she watches the poor, innocent woman fall heavily to the pavement before the chimera. Her concern lessens, but only somewhat, as Olofire ministers to the most immediate threat to her life.

    Quote Originally Posted by Gwynfrid View Post
    She turns to Jan, seeing her other companions busy saving lives and catching thieves. "Maybe you can try to cast that again, I have a hunch it may work this time!"
    "From your lips to all the good gods' ears!!" blurts out the gnome, fingers furiously gesturing once more at the beast, and causing another explosion of irritating dust around it.

    Spoiler: Actions
    Show
    I'm not sure on the map... but it looks like Jan ended up adjacent to one of the thieves this round. I guess they get to move too.

    So... 5ft step away from the thieves (if required) and then Glitterdust at the Chimera again, hoping to catch just it in the radius.

    Spoiler: Stats
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    Janstina Silentall
    F Chaotic Good Gnome Sorcerer, Level 7, Init 8, HP 53/53, Speed 20
    AC 13, Touch 13, Flat-footed 11, CMD 12, Fort 5, Ref 5, Will 5, CMB 0, Base Attack Bonus 3
    Acidic Ray Ranged (1d6+1/2lvl, x2)
    Dagger Melee (1d3-2, x2, 19-20)
    (+2 Dex, +1 Size)
    Abilities Str 6, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 8, Cha 23
    Condition None
    Lehasti Gesmeha and Azkin for Mummy's Mask
    Morevek for Wrath of the Righteous
    Janstina Silentall for Age of Worms

  4. - Top - End - #64
    Firbolg in the Playground
     
    NecromancerGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Spoiler: Beginning of Round 3
    Show

    Spoiler: Mechanics
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    Lydia moves to the injured woman's side, dropping her longspear on the way.
    Both thieves take AoOs, which miss.

    The summoned Hound Archon misses with all of its attacks.
    Olofire revives the dying woman and moves to Q8.
    Frederick moves to S8 and knocks Aregen, the thief, unconscious.
    Marzena moves to R11 and uses Evil Eye on the chimera.
    The chimera fails it's saving throw.

    Jan 5-ft steps away from the conscious thief and casts Glitterdust again.
    The chimera passes it's saving throw. (Sorry, bro - it rolled well...)

    The commoners continue to flee.
    The mother crawls away from the Chimera, but it is no longer looking at her and doesn't take an AoO.

    Sald withdraws to AA17. Aregen is unconscious.

    The chimera uses its breath weapon, dealing 26 electricity damage to the Hound Archon, Lydia, and Olofire. DC 17 Reflex saves for half-damage. (The Hound Archon is immune to electricity damage.) It then takes a 5-ft step back from the Hound Archon.

    The party reacts quickly to the grievously injured woman, with both Lydia and Olofire rushing to her side. The two thieves fail to connect with parting jabs, and Frederick knocks one out with the flat of his sword. Marzena approaches the chimera, her glare leaving it visibly shaken, though it shakes off Jan's spell again.

    As the commoners flee the revived-mother and her son crawl further from the magical beast. With his ally downed, the remaining thief scrambles away, jumping a hedge around a nearby building and trying to put some distance between himself and the clearly superior adventurers. The chimera takes a deep breath, and the goat and lion heads roars as the blue-dragon head breaths a line of lightning! It hits the archon square in the chest - to no effect - and then flows over Lydia and Olofire leaving painful, shocking electric burns where it touches them.

    Lydia and Olofire need DC 17 Reflex saves to avoid the full damage of the lightning breath weapon. Full damage is 26, passing saves results in 13 (or none with Evasion).

    Begin round 3!

  5. - Top - End - #65
    Bugbear in the Playground
     
    DwarfBarbarianGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Round 3

    As Frederick knocks out the thief before him, Olofire instinctively dodges a stray lightning bolt! Looking at the chimera, he charges around it hoping to better position himself around the creature.

    Spoiler: Actions
    Show

    Rolled Reflex in OoC 26 Vs DC 17. Evasion means he takes no damage. He will then double move past and flank the chimera with the hound archon.

    If the chimera attacks and misses Olofire, he will spend a panache point to go underfoot.

    Spoiler: Stats
    Show
    Dr. Olofire Lightouch
    Male N. Good Halfling Alchemist (Chir./Vivis.) 5/Unchained Rogue 2, Level 7, Init 5, HP 47/47, Speed 60 ft
    AC 20, Touch 16, Flat-footed 15, CMD 18, Fort 7, Ref 13, Will 4, CMB +3, Base Attack Bonus 4
    Masterwork Scalpel (dagger) +11 (not mutated, +13 mutated) (1d3, 19-20/x2)
    Sling (Bullets) +10 (not mutated, +12 mutated) (1d3, x2)
    only while mutated, Claw +14 (1d4+8, x2)
    Mithral Chain Shirt (+4 Armor, +5 Dex, +1 Size)
    Abilities Str 10, Dex 20, Con 12, Int 16, Wis 10, Cha 9
    Condition None
    -Mutagen Prepared: Dex +4, Wis -2, +2 Nat Armor 1/1
    -Panache 3/3
    -Spontaneous Healing 2/2 left today

  6. - Top - End - #66
    Ogre in the Playground
     
    ElfRangerGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Round 3

    The wolf-headed celestial snarls furiously as it steps forward to pursue the chimera. Heedless of the lightning pouring off of it like water, it continues its barrage of greatsword blows.

    Lydia is not so fortunate as the lightning catches her square in her metal breastplate and races throughout her body. With a gasp she weaves a spell to mend to worst of her wounds before rushing forward to aid her celestial ally.

    Spoiler: Actions
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    Lydia converts a 3rd-level slot to Cure Serious Wounds and heals herself for (3d8+7)[15]. Then she moves to M/12.

    Spoiler: Status (before healing)
    Show
    Lydia Constantine Human Cleric 7 LG HP 19 / 59 Speed ft Init 6 AC 23 Fort 7 Ref 5 Will 8 CMB +8 BAB 5 +1 Longspear +9 (1d8 + 5, x3)
    Longsword +9 (1d8 + 3, 19-20/x2)
    Heavy Mace +8 (1d8 + 3, x2) Str 16 (3) Dex 14 (2) Con 14 (2) Wis 17 (3) Int 12 (1) Cha 8 (-1)


    Hound archon 5ft steps to M/11 and full-attacks the chimera:
    masterwork greatsword atk 1: (1d20+9)[16], dmg (2d6+3)[10], cc (1d20+9)[16] (19-20/x2), cdmg (2d6+3)[9]
    masterwork greatsword atk 2: (1d20+4)[9], dmg (2d6+3)[12], cc (1d20+4)[9] (19-20/x2), cdmg (2d6+3)[13]
    bite: (1d20+3)[15], dmg (1d8+2)[8], cc (1d20+3)[22] (20/x2), cdmg (1d8+2)[8]

    Hound archon: 39/39 HP
    round 3 / 7
    Spoiler: Active characters
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    Waylan, Kestros and Auspice (Wrath of the Righteous)


    Lydia (Age of Worms - loot tracking)

  7. - Top - End - #67
    Firbolg in the Playground
     
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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Marzena notices how the chimera flinches under her baleful glare, but nevertheless, the monster resists Janstina's magic once more. "So, it looks like you still have a bit of luck in you, beast? Lets see how long that lasts." Seemingly out of nowhere, her deck of cards appears in her hand, and she begins to shuffle it furiously, one-handed. She stops, and flashes the top card for all to see. "Right there! The Rabbit Prince! Indeed, battle is a chaotic thing, isn't it? Especially for this chaotic beast, about to meet its unlucky end! Keep it up, my friend", she calls out those last words in Jan's direction.

    Spoiler
    Show
    Move to P12
    Standard action: Misfortune hex on the chimera. Will DC19 negates. Anytime the creature makes an ability check, attack roll, saving throw, or skill check, it must roll twice and take the worse result.

    Evil Eye remains active, -2 to saves for 8/9 rounds

    Spoiler: stats
    Show
    Marzena Human (F) Cartomancer Witch 7 CG HP 44 / 44 Speed ft Init 3 AC 16 Fort 5 Ref 7 Will 9 CMB +2 BAB 3 Harrow Card 5 (1d4+2, 20/x2)
    Dagger 2 (1d4-1, 19/x2) Str 8 (-1) Dex 14 (2) Con 12 (1) Wis 12 (1) Int 20 (6) Cha 10 (0)
    Powers per day: Fly 7/7 minutes, Levitate 1/1, Augury 2/week, Harrowed feat: Draw Harrow card for +2 to 1 check 1/1
    Reference for Harrow deck rolls
    Last edited by Gwynfrid; 2021-03-12 at 05:22 PM.

  8. - Top - End - #68
    Titan in the Playground
     
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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    With a satisfied growl, Frederick steps over the unconscious thief. His intense glare rises to the chimera, and the step turns into the first of a charge. "You'll not find defenseless prey today!"

    Spoiler: Frederick, round 3
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    Frederick Strongarm
    M LG Half-Orc Paladin 7 (VMC Barbarian), Level 7, Init 1, HP 60/60, Speed 20
    AC 22, Touch 11, Flat-footed 24, CMD 21, Fort 9, Ref 5, Will 7*, CMB +10/+5, Base Attack Bonus 6/1, Power Points -/0
    Magic Falchion +1 +12/+7 (2d4+7, 18-20/x2)
    Warhammer +11/+6 (1d8+4, x3)
    MW Composite Longbow (+3 str) (40 standard arrows) +8 (1d8+3, x3)
    Full Plate +1, Heavy Steel Shield (+10 Armor, +2 Shield, +1 Natural, +1 Deflect)
    Abilities Str 19, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 10, Wis 8, Cha 16
    Condition Irrepressible: Cha isntead of Wis for charm/compulsion will saves
    Power Attack
    Uncanny Dodge
    Lay on Hands: 6/6 (2d6, removes fatigue, disease)
    Smite Evil: 2/3
    Divine Bond: 1/1
    Rage: 7/8
    Grace: 1/1
    Hero's Defiance: 1/1

    non-action: rage!
    swift action: smite!
    charge the chimera! (ending in M/11 appears to be legal)
    (1d20+17)[20] falchion (power attack/charging/smiting/raging)
    (1d20+17)[37] CC (35+, x2)
    (2d4+23)[27] damage (+7 default, +6 PA, +7 smite, +3 rage
    (2d4+23)[29] crit bonus

  9. - Top - End - #69
    Troll in the Playground
     
    PaladinGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Jan's face contorts into a mask of frustrated rage, and the gnome very nearly froths at the mouth, spitting unintelligible epithets at the chimera's continued resistance of her spells. With another explosive gesture, a third burst of dust explodes into being, just before her companions finish their approach...

    Spoiler: Actions
    Show
    Once more with feeling... Glitterdust, DC 18 or blinded for as many as 7 rounds.
    Spoiler: Stats
    Show
    Janstina Silentall
    F Chaotic Good Gnome Sorcerer, Level 7, Init 8, HP 53/53, Speed 20
    AC 13, Touch 13, Flat-footed 11, CMD 12, Fort 5, Ref 5, Will 5, CMB 0, Base Attack Bonus 3
    Acidic Ray Ranged (1d6+1/2lvl, x2)
    Dagger Melee (1d3-2, x2, 19-20)
    (+2 Dex, +1 Size)
    Abilities Str 6, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 8, Cha 23
    Condition None
    Lehasti Gesmeha and Azkin for Mummy's Mask
    Morevek for Wrath of the Righteous
    Janstina Silentall for Age of Worms

  10. - Top - End - #70
    Firbolg in the Playground
     
    NecromancerGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Spoiler: Mechanics
    Show
    Marzena moves to P12 and uses Misfortune - the chimera fails its saving throw.
    Jan casts Glitterdust - the chimera fails its saving throw.
    Olofire moves to J11 (the chimera cannot AoO, as it is blind).
    Lydia heals and moves to M12.
    Hound Archon moves to M11 and hits the chimera once with its greatsword for 10 damage.
    Frederick rages, smites, charges to M10, and hits the chimera for 27 damage.

    The mother and son get up and run away.

    Sald, the injured thief, flees the scene.

    The chimera attempts to fly away, incurring lots of AoOs. The PCs hit with enough to drop it unconscious.

    With two magical debuffs, causing the chimera misfortune and blindness, the party rushes into melee with the beast. Both Frederick and the summoned archon connect with their swords, and as it attempts to fly to safety the party piles on the attacks, dropping it unconscious to the street.

    In the chaos, the second thief has fled, somewhere to the southeast. The mother and son have fled, their terror overwhelming any interest they might have had in thanking their saviors.

    End of combat!

    You have a couple of moments before anything more happens. Do you attempt to save the life of the chimera, or let it bleed out? It was a captured beast, intended for the upcoming games. However, it was also a (mildly) intelligent (4 INT), evil creature, so arguments could be made that it is cruel to keep it in bondage only to be slaughtered for the amusement of the crowd or that leaving it alive was a mistake in the first place.

    You could also try to catch up to the thief that fled. I would use the chase rules to adjudicate the process. I have not applied those rules before (but don't mind doing it or not-doing it now). It is really up to you all as players.

    What do you do? Please keep your responses to something that will take no more than about three to four rounds.

  11. - Top - End - #71
    Titan in the Playground
     
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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Breathing heavily, Frederick surveys the field. He growls in the direction of the fleeing thief, but makes no effort to give chase. "Lydia, are you alright?" he barks, without turning in her direction. At affirmation that she's not in immediate risk, he begins to relax. "Bind him, if you would," he instructs, regarding the unconscious thief, though it's not immediately clear to whom he's giving instruction.

    Instead of watching that, however, he turns to the bleeding chimera with an odd but stern expression. He makes no effort to save the creature, however, and responds with curiosity if anyone else tries.

  12. - Top - End - #72
    Ogre in the Playground
     
    ElfRangerGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    "I'm fine!" Lydia growls as she rams her sword back into its sheath and waves her hand to dismiss the hound archon. Wincing slightly, she approaches the unconscious thief and begins tying his hands behind his back. "Who would be foolish enough to attack us in the streets of Greyhawk?? Do they have a death wish?" She shakes her head. "Did anyone see where the other ran off to? There was another that hit me - I'm sure of it. Or maybe we should wake this one up and ask him." She glowers down at the unconscious captive, deliberating over what to do next...

    She ignores the dying chimera entirely - in her mind, the battle has come to its rightful conclusion.
    Last edited by MuffinMan; 2021-03-18 at 03:13 PM.
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    Waylan, Kestros and Auspice (Wrath of the Righteous)


    Lydia (Age of Worms - loot tracking)

  13. - Top - End - #73
    Firbolg in the Playground
     
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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    "See? Third time's the charm", Marzena tells Jan with a satisfied smile. "Now, I would really like to know who brings dangerous beasts like this to my city, and isn't even able to keep them in check! If it weren't for Lydia and her quick reaction, that poor woman would be gone by now. And without you, Jan, and Sir Frederick, the beast would have flown away to murder people farther out!" She doesn't pay any particular attention to the dying beast, satisfied enough that it's no longer a threat to innocent lives. Instead, she looks around, her sharp eyes looking for some sort of parade director. "Who's supposed to be in charge of this sorry mess?" she calls out, in an imperious tone.

    Spoiler
    Show
    Perception to locate some sort of manager. (1d20+11)[25] Marzena is quite pissed off to see citizens so endangered.
    Last edited by Gwynfrid; 2021-03-19 at 09:13 PM.

  14. - Top - End - #74
    Firbolg in the Playground
     
    NecromancerGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    In the sudden quiet after the chimera's death, the streets begin to fill with the citizens of Greyhawk again, starting with the street performers who had been pulling the chimera's cage on a cart. When they discover the party has killed the chimera their expressions grow despondent. One of them approaches Marzena and explains, "Most of us are just dancers and acrobats, ma'am. The animal handlers assured us that the cage was well-secured...We will be speaking with their boss about this. Thank you for protecting everyone - this beast was meant for the games next month, not to hurt innocent townspeople...We're sorry, and thank you..." The man looks mostly embarrassed and ashamed, but is clearly not built for the work of handling a violent and dangerous beast.

    A couple of moments later members of the town watch arrive. The captain looks at the scene and quickly surmises most of what happened. "Ferd and Thom - see to that thief. I've seen him and his brother before, too. See if you can get anything out of him when he wakes," he orders two of the armed men as he approaches the party. "As for all of you - thank you both for protecting the townsfolk and not killing that ruffian. Greyhawk has pretty strong laws against vigilante-justice, but we rely on the good will of adventurers like yourselves too. Have you had a chance to recover everything? And who can give me a statement for my report?"

  15. - Top - End - #75
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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Frederick nods peaceably at the performer, content with his explanation, if not precisely happy about it.

    He snorts unpleasantly at the watchman. "That ruffian tried to kill my ally," he grunts. Lydia's wounds speak for themselves. "I didn't precisely see how they started it, but wasn't about to let them finish." He seems otherwise uninterested or unwilling to comment.

  16. - Top - End - #76
    Ogre in the Playground
     
    ElfRangerGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    "We're agents of the Valorous Host, not some troupe of foolish adventurers!" Lydia protests. "Yes, we've recovered everyth- wait! My coin purse!" She notices the slash in her pouch for the first time, and the coins spilled along the ground. "By the Archpaladin I swear if I get my hands on him I'll..." Her voice trails off into a low grumble as she stoops to begin recollecting her coins from the dirty road. "Jan! Marzena! Tell the captain what he needs for his report!"
    Last edited by MuffinMan; 2021-03-21 at 11:08 AM.
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    Waylan, Kestros and Auspice (Wrath of the Righteous)


    Lydia (Age of Worms - loot tracking)

  17. - Top - End - #77
    Troll in the Playground
     
    PaladinGuy

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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    Jan doesn't directly respond to Marzena's comments; instead the gnome scampers over toward the dying chimera, and she lifts one tiny foot as though to kick the creature... before deciding against. it. With a wordless "Hmmph! of irritation, she looks about to the townsfolk that are beginning to emerge back onto the street.

    Quote Originally Posted by DarkOne7141981 View Post
    "Most of us are just dancers and acrobats, ma'am. The animal handlers assured us that the cage was well-secured...We will be speaking with their boss about this. Thank you for protecting everyone - this beast was meant for the games next month, not to hurt innocent townspeople...We're sorry, and thank you..."
    "Well, I very much suggest that you do speak to... whoever", she gestures vaguely about, "was responsible for this creature! What a laughably inadequate cage, for a creature that breathes lightning! LIGHTNING for all the good gods' sakes!!"

    Noticing the man's increasing dejection, her eyes soften. "At least, that's what I'd say to that person! But that's not your fault, really. And it seems that, at the end of the day, there's not much harm done. Well, except..." She jerks one tiny thumb over her shoulder at the now-still chimera and shrugs.

    Quote Originally Posted by DarkOne7141981 View Post
    "As for all of you - thank you both for protecting the townsfolk and not killing that ruffian. Greyhawk has pretty strong laws against vigilante-justice, but we rely on the good will of adventurers like yourselves too. Have you had a chance to recover everything? And who can give me a statement for my report?"
    Quote Originally Posted by MuffinMan View Post
    "Jan! Marzena! Tell the captain what he needs for his report!"
    Jan snickers at the battle-cleric as the latter tries to recover her coins. "Well, I mean, there's not much to say, really! The chimera, well, clearly it broke out of its cage, and we had to, err... 'handle' it before it could do any more damage than it did. We barely managed to distract it from this poor woman before she shuffled the ol' mortal coil, so to speak, and meanwhile the two thieves were complicating our efforts. There's no telling how many townsfolk's purses sway a little lighter from their work today, either.

    Was there something more you wanted to know?
    " She smiles disarmingly up at the watchman.
    Lehasti Gesmeha and Azkin for Mummy's Mask
    Morevek for Wrath of the Righteous
    Janstina Silentall for Age of Worms

  18. - Top - End - #78
    Firbolg in the Playground
     
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    Default Re: Age of Worms - The Hall of Harsh Reflections

    "Pleased to be of service to the city, Captain. My name is Marzena. My fellows over there are from out of town, I'm a local." Marzena assesses that she's more familiar than her friends with the ways of the local police, and steps in to avoid any complications. "I'll be happy to give you a statement." She lowers her voice, and makes a small move to take the conversation to the side of the street and away from the main throng of onlookers.

    "It began when we noticed these two pickpockets. Well, I only noticed one of them, the other one was too slick for me. Anyway, I called him out. As we were about to stop them, I heard the noise, the chimera had broken out. I'm telling you, the culprit here is whoever secured this cage, and didn't even accompany the parade. These bars are a joke, went like so many overcooked noodles. Those poor sods pulling the cage weren't equipped to deal with it in any way. Next thing you know, the chimera had already gotten this poor woman, and was about to kill her kid next. So we went all-out. We have a bit of experience fighting monsters out there.

    What I don't quite get is, why the thieves didn't take it as their cue to make themselves scarce. That was the perfect cover for an escape, but no, instead they attacked Lydia, you can see the nasty gash on her. Sir Frederick knocked one out, the other one saw sense finally, he ran away. Meanwhile, Dr Olofire here, he revived the downed woman, Lydia, Jan and I used some magics, and together we managed to take the chimera out. I think no one else was hurt? I couldn't see everything in the panic.

    But I can tell you, there ought to be consequences for irresponsible handling of dangerous monsters like this. I mean, it breathed lightning at us! It could have killed dozens..."

  19. - Top - End - #79
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    Frederick scoffs at Marzena's description (which appears to include him). "Might as well be," he mutters, but doesn't interrupt. He scowls about with his arms crossed irritably, and makes no effort to add to the report.

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    The parade performers work together to drag the chimera's corpse and roll it onto a cart to return to the arena. It is messy, difficult work, but after several failed attempts some of the citizens watching pitch in and manage. The town guard work efficiently, clapping the unconscious thief in shackles and hauling him away for arrest. "Hah - you've spirit and a sense of humor," laughs the captain after talking to Jan. He thanks the party, a respectful expression on his face, but cool and professional as opposed to friendly. Then he rounds up the remaining officers and announces, "Alright everyone - see to your families and get back to your business. Nothing more to see here..." and the street slowly begins to return to normal.

    The party sees no sign of the other thief, nor the mother (who nearly died) or her son. It appears they didn't want to risk returning to the scene of violence, though several of the other city folk thank the party with vary degrees of enthusiasm for the individual heroes. It's not much, but several of the nearby innkeepers and restaurant owners offer their wares to the party for free. It appears the party has earned their lunch today.


    It's still early in the afternoon when the party is finished eating, so it's up to you all what you do next - do you do some shopping? Head to see Eligos and try to learn more about the Age of Worms? Visit the University to reconnect with Olofire's professors and perform some experiments on the Kyuss worms?

  21. - Top - End - #81
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    "Ahh, that was delicious." Lydia sighs contentedly as she rises from the table, now only slightly favoring her wounded side. "In light of recent events, it seems wise for us to stick to together. Unless... Doctor, do you think your associates at the university would want to have a lengthy discussion about your discoveries? The rest of us wouldn't be much use in such talks, I'm afraid, so perhaps we should escort you to the laboratory and then the rest of us can go speak with this 'Eligos'. What do you think?" She looks expectantly at the halfling surgeon.
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    Waylan, Kestros and Auspice (Wrath of the Righteous)


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  22. - Top - End - #82
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    Frederick grunts, his sour mood only slightly ameliorated by the free food. "Let's just stick together. I know it's urgent, but we won't be doing anyone any favors by splitting up and making targets of ourselves. Believe me, I'm as eager as anyone to get out of this city and on with our purpose, but I'd rather do it right and make sure we don't have to come back, or leave anyone behind. Let's see to Eligos."

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    Marzena thanks the innkeepers warmly. "That was really nice. I'll come again and bring the family, as paying customers next time!"

    She thinks over Lydia's suggestion and Frederick's response. "On one hand, we're supposed to be rather safe in the middle of here, I would swear my home place is among the safest in the world, except possibly for a few seedy areas. On the other, well, that was just proven wrong not an hour ago.

    And since I joined you guys, I can't help noticing we seem fated to encounter trouble, the deadly kind, anywhere we go. I agree, let's stick together."

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    As the party leaves the inn, the owner and family continue to express their thanks as they wave goodbye. Out on the street things have largely returned to normal, so the party reviews their notes as to Eligos' address. He lives in the Garden District, one of the more affluent parts of town further north of the Sanctum of Heironeous. Turning towards that part of the city, the party begins walking and passes through the inner gates of the city towards the appropriately greener neighborhood. The guards take notice, but say nothing to the PCs as they pass.

    None of the PCs are especially familiar with the Garden District, but after some time and several requests for directions they find themselves in front of a white stone wall surrounding a manicured yard of trimmed hedges and exotic fauna. A cobbled path, flanked by a pair of pools and rearing dragon statues, leads to an alabaster marble manor house with gilded double doors and flickering golden lanterns. As the party approaches the front of the opulent manor an elven man exits and approaches them. "My name is Pollard, head of the estate of the sage Eligos. Who are you and what business do you bring to my master's doorstep?"

  25. - Top - End - #85
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    Marzena steps forward, a serious look on her face. "Well met, Pollard. My name is Marzena. I used to be a student of the great Archmage Tenser, although, I have to admit, not a successful one. Your master might remember my name, although I wouldn't be at all surprised if he did not. And my companions here are Sir Frederick Strongarm, Doctor Olofire, Mistress Janstina, and the Reverend Lydia Constance.

    We are here to seek Master Eligos' knowledge and wisdom, at the behest of Allustan, a former colleague of his. This is about a matter of the gravest importance, with many lives possibly in the balance. Will you introduce us, please?"

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    From her position at Marzena's elbow, Jan adds, "Y'know, if I were a clever wizardly type, like Allustan, I'd've figured out some magicky way to send ahead to my colleagues. Particularly on an urgent mission like ours. You know, 'the end is nigh, worldwide apocalypse', all that kind of thing."

    With an affectation of bored expectation, the gnome watches the attendant placidly.
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    "I see. Please follow me," responds the elf politely as he turns and leads the party through the front door of the manor. Pollard escorts the party through a grand foyer, dominated by a marble staircase lined with suits of ancient armor, and topped by an ancient battle banner used as a curtain. Off to one side a short hallway leads to a parlor where the PCs are asked to wait by the austere manservant. He steps out of the room for a moment (presumably to inform his master of your presence) and then returns with a carafe of fine wine, a pitcher of clear water, and selected fresh fruit on a silver platter. "For you, courtesy of my master," he says as he places them on a table near crystal glasses and turns to leave.

    The parlor is lined with packed bookcases, framed by various oil paintings of faraway places and fantastic locales. The party sees one of a great road paved with humanoid bones, another of a bustling city set inside a dormant volcano, and an abstract painting of a vast, featureless ashen plain. All of the furniture in the room is gilt with fine gold tracery and padded with plush red velvet cushions. The floor is polished wood, but largely covered by a well-worn carpet depicting some forgotten battel between the forces of good and evil.

    Spoiler: Eligos
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    After a few minutes of waiting, an auburn-haired man of indeterminate age enters the room. The man wears an open red robe with a silver breastplate underneath. His sharp eyes are wells of deep gray accented with specks of red. "My manservant, Pollard, tells me that you wish to speak to me. My name is Eligos - how can I be of assistance?"

    Spoiler: Knowledge (Local) DC 20, (Arcana) 15
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    Eligos is a patient, levelheaded man, respected throughout the city of Greyhawk for his obscure knowledge and skill in the arcane. Like Allustan and Marzena, he was once apprenticed to the archmage Tenser. Unlike the other two, however, Eligos still serves the archmage as one of Tenser's chief agents in the Free City.

  28. - Top - End - #88
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    "Master Eligos," Lydia begins, stepping forward. "We have traveled from Diamond Lake to meet you at the behest of the wizard Allustan, a former colleague of yours. He believes you may be able to help us understand certain recent events. I speak of poisonous green worms appearing throughout the realm, a new breed of undead menace, and a whispered name, Kyuss, all said to be harbingers of some great calamity. The so-called Age of Worms." She pauses and looks back at her companions. "We have seen enough that we cannot discount the threat that it represents, and we are duty-bound to stop it. So, we have come to you for your learned opinion on the matter."
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    Allustan raises his eyebrows at the mention of Allustan. "Hmmm, I never thought I would hear from him again. But please, continue. Who are the rest of you? And do you all come asking about such dark portents? How are all of you involved in this business?" he asks, his expression softening a little as he turns to listen to the others.

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    "My name is Marzena, Master Eligos. I am a former student of the great Tenser, but that path wasn't for me... If I became a modest practitioner of the arcane, it was in a bit of roundabout way. But enough about me.

    We brought our discoveries to Allustan first, but he recommended we seek the help of someone more knowledgeable: Yourself, Master. What we found, indeed, is concerning..."
    She begins to recount the group's experiences, the Kyuss worms, finding spawn in the Keep's basement, the supernatural terror, the dead birds and fish, the lizardmen's infected eggs, the ominous child's poem, and the terrible fates of Filge and his family. She finishes by quoting, yet again, the sentence that her mind is unable to shake off:

    "Through them all the worm that walks dreams, waiting the day its heralds rouse it to feed on all that is..."

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    She basically recounts the same points we made to the Hieronean Elders.
    Last edited by Gwynfrid; 2021-04-04 at 05:08 PM.

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